bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carex talbotii (Cyperaceae), a replacement name for Berggren’s Sedge

Authors: KOTTAIMUTHU RAMALINGAM , BASU MUTHURAMALINGAM JOTHI
Published: June 2020

Carex Linnaeus (1753: 972) is one of the largest genera of angiosperms with about 2000 species (Jiménez-Mejías et al. 2016a). According to the Global Carex Group (2015) circumscription, it is nearly a cosmopolitan genus with higher species diversity in cold-temperate areas of the Northern Hemisphere (Martín-Bravo et al. 2019). A recent revision of Carex fossils (Jiménez-Mejías et al. 2016b) provided an exhaustive compilation of Carex names coined for fossils, later compiled by IFPNI (2014–present). Some cases of the homonymy between extant and fossil species have been recently resolved by Turner (2014, 2015), Doweld (2015, 2016a–b, 2017a–c, 2018), Kottaimuthu (2017, 2018a–b, 2019) and Govaerts (2018). During routine nomenclatural check for the existence of the homonymy between extant and extinct members of sedges, we identified that the Berggren’s sedge namely Carex berggrenii Petrie (1886: 297) is illegitimate because there exists an earlier homonym Carex berggrenii Heer (1870: 49) a fossil-species described from Spitsbergen island (Svalbard archipelago, Norway). Since no legitimate synonyms are available for this endemic sedge (Hamlin 1968, Edgar 1970, Breitwieser & Wilton 2020, Govaerts et al. 2020, POWO 2020), the replacement name Carex talbotii Kottaim. is proposed here.
Taxonomy and evolution of asymmetric male genitalia in the subgenus
Ashima Chen (Diptera: Drosophilidae: Phortica Schiner), with descriptions
of seven new species
Authors: TODA MASANORI J. , BÄNZIGER HANS , SATI PRADEEP C. , FARTYAL RAJENDRA S. , SUWITO AWIT , KATOH TORU
Published: June 2020

The taxonomy of the subgenus Ashima of the genus Phortica is revised. A cladistic analysis of 66 morphological characters is conducted, covering 35 species (28 known and 7 new species: Phortica efragmentata sp. nov., P. andreagigoni sp. nov., P. watabei sp. nov., P. halimunensis sp. nov., P. akutsui sp. nov., P. kerinciensis sp. nov., and P. takehiroi sp. nov.) which correspond to 71.4% of 49 total spp. of Ashima. The resulting cladogram shows that the studied species are separated into several clades/subclades/cluster each highly supported with specific synapomorphies. Those clades/subclades/cluster are newly defined as the following species groups, subgroups or complex: the afoliolata, foliiseta, nigrifoliiseta and angulata species groups; the foliiseta, tanabei, nigrifoliiseta and glabra species subgroups; and the foliiseta species complex. The subgenus Ashima is peculiar in having the asymmetric male genitalia as the ground plan and showing the antisymmetry (i.e. intraspecific mirror-image variation) in some species but the directional asymmetry (i.e. side-fixed asymmetry) in others. The evolution of genital asymmetry in this subgenus is estimated by mapping the states (symmetry, directional asymmetry and antisymmetry) of bilateral structures of male genitalia on the cladogram. This ancestral state reconstruction estimates that the directional asymmetry of male genitalia has evolved at the ancestor of this subgenus and then changed to the antisymmetric state independently in two lineages, the angulata + nigrifoliiseta species groups and the foliiseta species complex. In this study, a standardized terminology recently proposed for the male terminalia of Drosophila melanogaster is extendedly adopted to describe the morphology of male terminalia in the subgenus Ashima, one group of the subfamily Steganinae.
Gastrotermes spinatus gen. n. sp. n., an African soil-feeding termite described from the worker caste (Isoptera, Termitidae, Apicotermitidae)
Authors: SCHEFFRAHN RUDOLF H.
Published: June 2020

Gastrotermes spinatus gen. n. sp. n is described from workers of a single foraging group collected in Cameroon. This soil-feeding termite aligns with the Labidotermes subgroup (Apicotermes group) because of its non-protruding and symmetrical enteric valve armature, its short P1, and its globular P3a. An asymmetrical field of robust sclerotized spines at the opening of the P3a is unique among the other Labidotermes subgroup genera.
A new species of Cyrtodactylus (Squamata: Gekkonidae) from southern Vietnam
Authors: OSTROWSKI SABRINA , DO DANG TRONG , LE MINH DUC , NGO HANH THI , PHAM CUONG THE , NGUYEN TRUONG QUANG , NGUYEN VAN THI HONG , ZIEGLER THOMAS
Published: June 2020

We describe a new species of Cyrtodactylus on the basis of four specimens collected from Phu My, Binh Dinh Province, southern Vietnam. Cyrtodactylus phumyensis sp. nov. is distinguished from the remaining Indochinese bent-toed geckos by a combination of the following characters: size small (SVL up to 66.8 mm); two internasals; dorsal tubercle rows 18 or 19 at midbody; ventral scale rows 33–41; ventrolateral folds slightly developed; each thigh with 5–7 enlarged femoral scales; femoral pores absent in males and female; a series of 5–7 precloacal pores plus a pitted, enlarged precloacal scale in males; 6 pitted, enlarged precloacal scales in female; paravertebral tubercles 20–23; lamellae under toe IV 18–21; small subcaudal scales, not transversely enlarged; two irregular dark longitudinal stripes on shoulder. In phylogenetic analyses, the new species is recovered as a member of the Cyrtodactylus irregularis species group, and strongly supported as a sister taxon of C. cucdongensis from Khanh Hoa Province.
6. Shaping ‘the Good Teacher’ in Danish and Kenyan Teacher Education
Authors: Dahl Kari Kragh Blume
Published: June 2020

Chapter six, ‘Shaping “the Good Teacher” in Danish and Kenyan Teacher Education’, uses ethnographic material and quantitative data to compare practices in two very different countries where the author, Kari Kragh Blume Dahl, has lived and worked. She questions what informal, institutional norms look like in both contexts and how these impinge on the student group, and she examines the links between institutional discursive power and individual identification, seeking an understanding of what promotes a sense of identity and belonging in students. Her chapter also provides useful contextual data on schooling in each country.
8. Nurture Groups
Authors: Middleton Tristan
Published: June 2020

Tristan Middleton, a former headteacher and author of the final chapter in this section, ‘Nurture Groups: Perspectives from Teaching Assistants Who Lead Them in Britain’ (Ch8) turns to the English primary stage (ages four to eleven) and examines with teaching assistants how they deal with critical incidents when running Nurture groups for children with challenging behavior. As an insider researcher who has worked with Nurture groups himself, Tristan is keen to capture the reality of the work and encourages the practitioners to talk freely in order to explore both negative and positive aspects. Carried out alongside supervisory sessions, the study coincidentally encouraged reflective practice, creating additional layers of benefit.
17. Examining a Kazakh Student’s Biographical Narrative and the Discourses She Lives By
Authors: Evans Rob
Published: June 2020

In ‘Examining a Kazakh Student’s Biographical Narrative and the Discourses She Lives By’ (Ch17), Rob Evans presents an interesting account of a young Kazakh women studying in Germany and learning to balance her own emancipatory needs with her family’s desire for her to conform to traditional norms. Rob’s approach is one of talk-in-action and, quite apart from his skilful interpretation of the shared texts, offers a good example of conversational analysis (CA) in practice, within a Foucauldian framework. He presents excerpts from his narrative interviews to demonstrate the CA process, intertwining method, examples, narrative and theorization to sculpt an integrated whole that does his participant justice.
19. Uncovering Habitus in Life Stories of Muslim Converts
Authors: Rasmussen Simone R.
Published: June 2020

Simone Rasmussen’s study, ‘Uncovering Habitus in Life Stories of Muslim Converts’ (Ch19), uses a Bourdieusian framework (habitus) to look in detail at the lives and beliefs of two young Danish women who chose to convert to Islam without previous religious affiliation. It thus introduces a different strand into the field of conversion, where earlier work identifies converts as commonly moving between radical Christianities to orthodox Islamic branches. For Simone’s participants, the reasons appear to be more individualized and quite complex, but both women seek inner peace and links to a nurturing community.
21. Decolonizing and Indigenizing Discourses in a Canadian Context
Authors: Chan Adrienne S.
Published: June 2020

In ‘Decolonizing and Indigenizing Discourses in a Canadian Context’ (Ch21), Adrienne Chan offers an historical overview and clear explanations of decolonization and indigenization, an area in which she has worked for several decades. She describes how she engages with the discourses of power within the University to make changes to curricula and teaching and then describes and analyses a research project intended to prevent suicide in Aboriginal youth by building their resilience. This is a community-based project, developed organically with members of the Aboriginal community.
22. Embedding Feminist Pedagogies of Care in Research to Better Support San Youth in South Africa
Authors: Ylitapio-Mäntylä Outi , Mäkiranta Mari
Published: June 2020

In ‘Embedding Feminist Pedagogies of Care in Research to Better Support San Youth in South Africa’ (Ch22), Outi Ylitapio-Mäntylä and Mari Mäkiranta, consider how holding feminist pedagogies but functioning within a neoliberal academic environment requires researchers working in non-Western contexts to re-think their assumptions and approaches. They discuss the issues relating to research in a large group where many of the collaborators scarcely know each other — maybe never meet — and make a plea for a caring ethos that sensitively recognizes the needs of the project participants rather than the power struggles of the transnational research project and its organizers.
A Synoptic Climatology of Spring Dryline Convection in the Southern Great Plains
Authors: Mitchell Trevor , Schultz David M.
Published: June 2020

A dataset of drylines within a region of the southern Great Plains was constructed to investigate the large-scale environments associated with the initiation of deep moist convection. Drylines were identified using NOAA/NWS Weather Prediction Center surface analyses for all April, May, and June days 2006–15. Doppler radar and visible and infrared satellite imagery were used to identify convective drylines, where deep, moist convection was deemed to have been associated with the dryline circulation. Approximately 60% of drylines were convective, with initiation most frequently occurring between 2000 and 2100 UTC. Composite synoptic analyses were created of 179 convective and 104 nonconvective dryline days. The composites featured an upper-level long-wave trough to the west of the Rockies and a ridge extending across the northern and eastern United States. At the surface, the composites featured a broad surface cyclone over western Texas and southerly flow over the south-central states. Convective drylines featured more amplified upper-level flow, associated with a deeper trough in the western United States and a stronger downstream ridge than nonconvective drylines up to 5 days preceding a dryline event. By the day of a dryline event, the convective composite features greater low-level specific humidity and higher CAPE than the nonconvective composite. These results demonstrate that synoptic-scale processes over several days help create conditions conducive to deep, moist convection along the dryline.
Palestinian mothers in Israel: Can a welfare-to-work program enhance their social capital?
Authors: Herbst-Debby Anat , Sabbah-Karkabi Maha , Meler Tal
Published: June 2020

This study analyzes the experience of Palestinian mothers in Israel participating in a non-mandatory welfare-to-work program. The goal is to explore the perceptions of these women and their trainers about the ways the program helps enhance the mothers’ social capital. The study is based on in-depth interviews of 30 mothers and three trainers who participated in the program. The findings expose a range of mothers’ voices. The three main ones are: encouraging empowerment more than Work First; encouraging ‘maternal’ jobs; and encouraging partnership and group cohesion. The combined voices of participants and trainers deepen the significance of these findings, as the latter play a meaningful role in enhancing the social capital and networking capabilities of the former, who suffer from multiple sources of exclusion, including a vulnerable ethno-national status, poverty, low income and gender.
A novel load prediction method for hybrid electric ship based on working condition classification
Authors: Gao Diju , Jiang Yao , Zhao Nan
Published: June 2020

In order to effectively optimize the load distribution between power sources during the navigation of hybrid ships, a method for predicting ship load demand based on real-time classification according to different working conditions is proposed. The k-means clustering algorithm is used to quantify the voyage history data to classify the ship’s navigation conditions into fast-changing conditions and slow-changing conditions. Some characteristic parameters related to working conditions are selected as input. Then, input and the category of working conditions are put into least squares support vector machine to learn and train to get an online working condition classifier. The genetic algorithm is used to optimize the radial-based neural network to predict the load demand under fast-changing conditions, use the Markov chain model to predict the load demand under slow-changing conditions, so as to obtain the most accurate future load demand of the ship. The simulation results show that the proposed prediction models under different conditions have higher precision, which is an effective means of predicting the load demand for hybrid power ships.
The Dream and the Reality of Blue Spaces: The Search for Freedom in Offshore Sailing
Authors: Orams Mark B. , Brown Mike
Published: June 2020

Escaping to sea by sailing boat conjures up images of idyllic anchorages and cocktails at sunset. In this paper, the authors reflected on the reality of extended voyaging to highlight how freedom and escape are relative and constantly negotiated. The authors utilize dialogue in the analysis of the data and draw on lived experience informed by immersion in the cruising community. The authors highlight how living at sea requires adherence to an “alternative” set of obligations to land-based life. They argue that blue spaces are important as a setting for a range of experiences that allow the exploration of what is possible and how one might live well. This paper contributes to the research on human–water relationships, that is, reshaping how we conceptualize blue space(s).
Le Papyrus-Amulette British Museum EA 10732 et le Billet Modèle P. Chester Beatty VII, Verso 7
Authors: Donnat Sylvie
Published: June 2020

This paper is the publication of the amulet Papyrus British Museum EA 10732 written for the protection of Amennakhte, born of Tarekhânou, against the srf-inflammation. The text is very close to P. Chester Beatty VII verso 7, with some variations in text and images. A partial doublet of P. Chester Beatty VII, verso 7 has been published by Yvan Koenig (Papyrus Deir al-Médîna 42). The nature of the relationships between P. British Museum EA 10732 and P. Chester Beatty VII, verso 7, is discussed.
Computer-Based and Paper-and-Pencil Tests: A Study in Calculus for STEM Majors
Authors: Smolinsky Lawrence , Marx Brian D. , Olafsson Gestur , Ma Yanxia A.
Published: June 2020

Computer-based testing is an expanding use of technology offering advantages to teachers and students. We studied Calculus II classes for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics majors using different testing modes. Three sections with 324 students employed: paper-and-pencil testing, computer-based testing, and both. Computer tests gave immediate feedback and allowed multiple submissions and pooling. Paper-and-pencil tests (PPTs) required work and explanation allowing inspection of high cognitive demand tasks. Each test mode used the strength of its method. Students were given the same lecture by the same instructor on the same day and the same homework assignments and due dates. The design is quasi-experimental, but students were not aware of the testing mode at registration. Two basic questions examined were as follows: (a) Do paper-and-pencil and computer-based tests (CBTs) measure knowledge and skill in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics Calculus II in a consistent manner? (b) How does the knowledge and skill gained by students in a fully computer-based Calculus II class compare to students in a class requiring pencil-and-paper tests and hence some paper-and-pencil work. These results indicate that CBTs are as consistent with PPTs as CBTs are with themselves. Results are also consistent with classes using PPTs having slightly better outcomes than fully computer-based classes using only computer assessments.
Stressed, Depressed and Exhausted: Six Years as a Teacher in UK State Education
Authors: Burrow Robin , Williams Rachel , Thomas Daniel
Published: June 2020

This article foregrounds the experiences of a newly qualified teacher – ‘Daniel’ – in the state education sector in the United Kingdom. It provides an insight into the under-explored realities of teaching work and an empirical connection with a segment of the UK public sector that successive governments have positioned as central to economic and social prosperity. It centres on why nine out of ten teachers who participated in the 2017 National Skills and Employment Survey reported that they ‘often’ or ‘always’ come home from work exhausted. In doing so, it also helps to explain why 33% of newly qualified teachers leave within five years of qualifying. Through Daniel’s story, 40 years of neoliberal reform to the UK education system is contextualised and shown to have intensified latent contradictions by stripping teachers of time and the freedom to operate and innovate.
Treatment Considerations for CNS Infections Caused by Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococcus faecium: A Focused Review of Linezolid and Daptomycin
Authors: Lee Benjamin J. , Vu Betty N. , Seddon Amanda N. , Hodgson Hayley A. , Wang Sheila K.
Published: June 2020

Objective:

To review the current literature describing pharmacology, pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics (PK/PD), efficacy, and safety of linezolid and daptomycin for the treatment of central nervous system (CNS) infections caused by vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE) faecium.

Data Sources:

A literature search of PubMed/MEDLINE databases was conducted (from 1950 to April 2020) utilizing the following key terms: vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus, VRE, meningitis, ventriculitis, CNS infection, daptomycin, and linezolid.

Study Selection and Data Extraction:

All relevant studies and case reports describing the treatment of VRE faecium from the CNS with linezolid or daptomycin were included.

Data Synthesis:

A total of 17 reports describing 22 cases were identified. There were 15 of 19 cases involving linezolid that reported clinical cure, of which 53.3% were monotherapy. Only 5 of 9 cases involving intravenous (IV) daptomycin resulted in cure; all 4 cases reporting daptomycin administration via the intrathecal or intraventricular route achieved clearance from the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).

Relevance to Patient Care and Clinical Practice:

The preferred treatment option for VRE faecium infections involving the CNS remains unclear. Supporting evidence through observational case reports have described varying outcomes with linezolid and daptomycin. This review compares reported outcomes between the 2 agents and provides a thorough discussion on drug- and patient-specific variables to consider.

Conclusions:

Linezolid monotherapy appears to be safe and effective for the treatment of susceptible-VRE faecium CNS infections, with consideration of therapeutic drug monitoring in special populations and with prolonged treatment duration. Daptomycin is an effective treatment option via intrathecal or intraventricular administration when neurosurgical access is available. The role of IV daptomycin remains inconclusive.
The benefits and drawbacks of femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery
Authors: Kanclerz Piotr , Alio Jorge L
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

Since the introduction, femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery was believed to revolutionize cataract surgery. However, the judgment of clinical benefit was found to be far more complex than initially might have been thought. The aim of this review was to analyze the benefits and drawbacks of femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery compared with traditional phacoemulsification cataract surgery.

Methods:

PubMed and the Web of Science were used to search the medical literature. The following keywords were searched in various combinations: femtosecond laser, femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery, phacoemulsification cataract surgery, FLACS.

Results:

The benefits of femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery include lower cumulated phacoemulsification time and endothelial cell loss, perfect centration of the capsulotomy, and opportunity to perform precise femtosecond-assisted arcuate keratotomy incisions. The major disadvantages of femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery are high cost of the laser and the disposables for surgery, femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery–specific intraoperative capsular complications, as well as the risk of intraoperative miosis and the learning curve.

Conclusion:

Femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery seems to be beneficial in some groups of patients, that is, with low baseline endothelial cell count, or those planning to receive multifocal intraocular lens. Nevertheless, having considered that the advantages of femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery might not be clear in every routine case, it cannot be considered as cost-effective.
INVICTUS: Intravitreal anti-VEGF and dexamethasone implant comparison for the treatment of diabetic macular edema: A 12 months follow-up study
Authors: Comet Alban , Gascon Pierre , Ramtohul Prithvi , Donnadieu Benjamin , Denis Danièle , Matonti Frédéric
Published: June 2020

Purpose:

To compare the efficacy of intravitreal injections (IVI) of ranibizumab (Lucentis®, Novartis, Basel, Switzerland; RAN), aflibercept (Eylea®, Bayer, Leverkusen, Germany; AFL) and dexamethasone implant (Ozurdex®, Allergan, Irvine, California; DXI) in the treatment of naive diabetic macular oedema (DME) during a 12-month follow-up, in real life.

Methods:

Nineteen eyes treated with RAN, 20 with AFL and 21 with DXI were analysed from inclusion up to 12 months (M12) with intermediate analysis at M6. Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), fundus and central retinal thickness (CRT) using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT; Spectralis/HRA, Heidelberg Engineering, Germany) were performed at inclusion, M3, M6 and M12.

Results:

BCVA improved until 67.9 letters ±13.3 SD (+5.5 letters) at M6 and 69.6 letters ±12 SD (+7.2 letters) at 12 months for RAN group ( p = 0.036). For the AFL group it improved until 63.6 letters ±15.2 SD (+6.6 letters) at M6 and 67.5 letters ±12.2 SD (+8.5 letters) at 12 months ( p = 0.014). Lastly DXI group improved by 66.9 letters ±15.1 SD (+7.9 letters) at M6 and 68.4 letters ±11.2 SD (+9.4 letters) at 12 months ( p = 0.0023). CRT decreased by 124.4 µm at M6 and 99.3 µm at M12 in RAN group, 144.3 µm and 101.5 µm in AFL group and finally 95.6 µm and 162.7 µm in DXI group.

Conclusion:

In summary, these three drugs provide an efficient treatment option with an acceptable benefit-risk ratio for the treatment of naive patients with DME, whether on BCVA or CRT on the first year of treatment.
Higher body mass index at ages 16 to 20 years is associated with increased risk of a multiple sclerosis diagnosis in subsequent adulthood among men
Authors: Xu Yin , Hiyoshi Ayako , Brand Judith S , Smith Kelsi A , Bahmanyar Shahram , Alfredsson Lars , Olsson Tomas , Montgomery Scott
Published: June 2020

Background:

Evidence for the association between body mass index (BMI) and multiple sclerosis (MS) among men remains mixed.

Objective and methods:

Swedish military conscription and other registers identified MS after age of 20 years and BMI at ages 16–20 years ( N = 744,548).

Results:

Each unit (kg/m2) BMI increase was associated with greater MS risk (hazard ratio and 95% confidence interval = 1.034, 1.016–1.053), independent of physical fitness (1.021, 1.001–1.042). Categorised, overweight and obesity were associated with statistically significant raised MS risk compared to normal weight, but not after adjustment for physical fitness.

Conclusion:

MS risk rises with increasing BMI, across the entire BMI range.
Framework for accounting for tourism carbon emissions in China: An industrial linkage perspective
Authors: Zha Jianping , Fan Rong , Yao Yao , He Lamei , Meng Yuanyuan
Published: June 2020

Understanding tourism carbon emissions and their influencing factors from the perspective of industrial linkages can inform policy-making in the development of sustainable tourism. Based on a combination of the environmental input–output (I-O) model and structural decomposition analysis, this article develops a novel framework for analyzing the industrial linkage pathways of China’s carbon emissions linked to tourism and identifying the driving factors affecting change in carbon emissions embodied in the supply chain. Results reveal that most carbon emissions linked to China’s broad-sense or narrow-sense tourism industry derive from some critical upstream industries, that is, indirect carbon emissions resulting from the intermediate production processes. Significant differences exist in the industrial linkage pathways of carbon emissions between tourism subsectors; thus, emission reduction policies for the broad-sense or narrow-sense tourism industry should be formulated based on these key interindustrial linkage pathways. The direct energy consumption intensity effect and energy structure effect are beneficial to carbon emission reduction, while the I-O structure effect reverses the effect on carbon emission reduction from negative to positive.
Implementing major system change in specialist cancer surgery: The role of provider networks
Authors: Vindrola-Padros Cecilia , Ramsay Angus IG , Perry Catherine , Darley Sarah , Wood Victoria J , Clarke Caroline S , Hines John , Levermore Claire , Melnychuk Mariya , Moore Caroline M , Morris Stephen , Mughal Muntzer M , Pritchard-Jones Kathy , Shackley David , Fulop Naomi J
Published: June 2020

Objective

Major system change (MSC) has multiple, sometimes conflicting, goals and involves implementing change across a number of organizations. This study sought to develop new understanding of how the role that networks can play in implementing MSC, using the case of centralization of specialist cancer surgery in London, UK.

Methods

The study was based on a framework drawn from literature on networks and MSC. We analysed 100 documents, conducted 134 h of observations during relevant meetings and 81 interviews with stakeholders involved in the centralization. We analysed the data using thematic analysis.

Results

MSC in specialist cancer services was a contested process, which required constancy in network leadership over several years, and its horizontal and vertical distribution across the network. A core central team composed of network leaders, managers and clinical/manager hybrid roles was tasked with implementing the changes. This team developed different forms of engagement with provider organizations and other stakeholders. Some actors across the network, including clinicians and patients, questioned the rationale for the changes, the clinical evidence used to support the case for change, and the ways in which the changes were implemented.

Conclusions

Our study provides new understanding of MSC by discussing the strategies used by a provider network to facilitate complex changes in a health care context in the absence of a system-wide authority.
Combinational Treatment of Doxorubicin With Neoadjuvant Docetaxel for Different Subtypes of Patients With Breast Cancer
Authors: Wang Ling-Cheng , Wang Ling-Sheng , Li Ai-Xia , Shi Zhen-Zong , Li Ya-Qiong , Huang Wei , Chen Shi-Man , Han Fei , Zhu De-Qiang
Published: June 2020

Aim:

The aim of this study is to characterize the effect of chemotherapy drug doxorubicin with neoadjuvant drug docetaxel for different molecular subtypes.

Methods:

A total of 83 patients with late-stage breast cancer were chosen to undergo treatment and compared to these patients to the combinational treatment to identify the molecular characteristics that can predict the responses.

Results:

Total response rate is 81.9% (68/83 patients). Among them, 7 patients show pathological complete response of 8.4%, 12 patients show clinical complete response of 14.5%, 49 patients show partial response of 59%, and 15 patients show stable disease of 18.1%. The comparison among different subtypes of breast cancer, including luminal A, luminal B, basal-like, and ERBB2+ subtypes, did not show statistical significant differences to the treatment of combinational treatment for the complete response rate, including pathological complete response and clinical complete response. Comparing with luminal A and luminal B subtypes, the ERBB2+ and basal-like subtypes have better complete response and response rate rates. The disease-free survival rate and overall survival rate at 29 months after treatment did not show statistical significant differences among different subtypes of patients with breast cancer.

Conclusion:

The molecular subtypes of breast cancer can predict responses to the combinational treatment of doxorubicin with docetaxel, and ERBB2+ and basal-like subtypes have better response rate and complete response rate. There is correlation of estrogen receptor and KI-67 level changes with response rate as well, where KI-67 high patients are more sensitive to the treatment.
Prognostic role of high cathepsin D expression in breast cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kang Junho , Yu Yeuni , Jeong Seongdo , Lee Hansong , Heo Hye Jin , Park Jeong Jun , Na Hee Sam , Ko Dai Sik , Kim Yun Hak
Published: June 2020

Background:

High cathepsin D has been associated with poor prognosis in breast cancer; however, the results of many studies are controversial. Here, we assessed the association between high cathepsin D levels and worse breast cancer prognosis by conducting a meta-analysis.

Methods:

A comprehensive search strategy was used to search relevant literature in PUBMED and EMBASE by September 2018. The meta-analysis was performed in Review Manager 5.3 using hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results:

A total of 15,355 breast cancer patients from 26 eligible studies were included in this meta-analysis. Significant associations between elevated high cathepsin D and poor overall survival (OS) (HR = 1.61, 95% CI: 1.35–1.92, p < 0.0001) and disease-free survival (DFS) (HR = 1.52, 95% CI: 1.31–2.18, p < 0.001) were observed. In the subgroup analysis for DFS, high cathepsin D was significantly associated with poor prognosis in node-positive patients (HR = 1.38, 95% CI: 1.25–1.71, p < 0.00001), node-negative patients (HR = 1.78, 95% CI: 1.39–2.27, p < 0.0001), early stage patients (HR = 1.73, 95% CI: 1.34–2.23, p < 0.0001), and treated with chemotherapy patients (HR = 1.60, 95% CI: 1.21–2.12, p < 0.001). Interestingly, patients treated with tamoxifen had a low risk of relapse when their cathepsin D levels were high (HR = 0.71, 95% CI: 0.52–0.98, p = 0.04) and a high risk of relapse when their cathepsin D levels were low (HR = 1.50, 95% CI: 1.22–1.85, p = 0.0001).

Conclusions:

Our meta-analysis suggests that high expression levels of cathepsin D are associated with a poor prognosis in breast cancer. Based on our subgroup analysis, we believe that cathepsin D can act as a marker for poor breast cancer prognosis and also as a therapeutic target for breast cancer.
Stroke Risk Following Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Morris Nicholas A. , Chen Monica Lin , Adejumo Oluwayemisi L. , Murthy Santosh B. , Kamel Hooman , Merkler Alexander E.
Published: June 2020

Background and Purpose:

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, also known as stress cardiomyopathy, is an increasingly recognized cause of left ventricular dysfunction. Previously considered a benign disease, Takotsubo cardiomyopathy may be a risk factor of ischemic stroke based on recent small, single-center case series. The strength and temporal profile of this association remains uncertain.

Methods:

We performed a cohort-crossover study using administrative claims data on all emergency department visits and acute care hospitalizations from 2005 to 2015 in California, New York, and Florida. We identified patients with Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, excluding those with a prior or concomitant stroke diagnosis. We compared the risk of ischemic stroke in the first year after Takotsubo cardiomyopathy to the risk of ischemic stroke in the second year after Takotsubo cardiomyopathy. Takotsubo cardiomyopathy and ischemic stroke were ascertained using previously validated ICD-9-CM codes. Absolute risks and odds ratios (OR) were calculated using McNemar test for matched data.

Results:

Among 5283 patients with Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (mean age, 67 years; 92% female), we identified 49 ischemic strokes during the first year after Takotsubo cardiomyopathy versus 19 ischemic strokes during the second year after. The risk of stroke was significantly higher in the year after Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (absolute increase, 0.6%; 95% CI: 0.2-0.9; OR: 2.6; 95% CI: 1.5-4.6) as compared to the control period.

Conclusion:

We found a heightened risk of ischemic stroke in the year after a diagnosis of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, although the absolute risk increase was small.
“Takotsubo effect” in patients with ST segment elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Lei Juan , Chen Jian , Dogra Megha , Gebska Milena A , Shetty Suchith , Ponnapureddy Rakesh , Roy Shubha D , Wang Jingfeng , Liu Kan
Published: June 2020

Background

Myocardial infarction can be a trigger of Takotsubo syndrome. We recently characterized imaging features of acute myocardial infarction-induced Takotsubo syndrome (“Takotsubo effect”). In this study, we investigate diagnostic and prognostic implications of Takotsubo effect in patients with anterior wall ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction.

Methods

We enrolled 111 consecutive patients who developed anterior wall ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction and received percutaneous coronary intervention, and studied systolic/diastolic function, hemodynamic consequences, adverse cardiac events, as well as 30-day and five-year outcomes in patients with and without Takotsubo effect.

Results

Patients with Takotsubo effect showed significantly worse average peak systolic longitudinal strain (–9.5 ± 2.6% vs –11.1 ± 3.6%, p = 0.038), left ventricular ejection fraction (38.5 ± 6.8% vs 47.7 ± 8.7%, p = 0.000) and myocardial performance index (0.54 ± 0.17 vs 0.37 ± 0.15, p = 0.000) within 48 h of myocardial infarction. There was no significant difference between the two groups in diastolic ventricular filling pressures, hemodynamic consequences, and 30-day rehospitalization and mortality (Gehan-Breslow-Wilcoxon test: p = 0.157). However, patients with Takotsubo effect developed more major adverse cardiac events (log-rank test: p = 0.019) when tested at the five-year follow-up. Cox regression analysis revealed that age, hypotension, tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion, and Takotsubo effect were independent prediction factors for five-year major adverse cardiac events. The Doppler/tissue Doppler parameter E/e’ correlated with MACE only in patients without Takotsubo effect.

Conclusion

Takotsubo effect secondary to anterior ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction predicts a worse long-term prognosis.
A rare and uncommon complication after use of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2): A review of use of H2O2 in orthopaedics
Authors: Chan Michael Matthew , Tse Tao Sun Tycus , Wan Yik-Cheung Samuel , Wah Hung Yuk , Fan Jason CH
Published: June 2020

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is a commonly used chemical agent in orthopaedic practice for antisepsis, haemostasis and preparation of bone bed for cementation. However, the associated risks of H2O2 usage are not widely known. We report a case of suspected air embolism after use of H2O2 during drainage of a septic arthritis of the shoulder.

Upon our literature review, we were able to demonstrate H2O2 to be beneficial in antisepsis and care of chronic wounds. However, it has not been proven to be superior to other antiseptics commonly used in orthopaedic surgery. Regarding its use in cementation, there is evidence to show it is more effective than saline however, the use of pulsatile lavage appears to be the most important factor affecting the quality of cementation. H2O2 has not been shown to be helpful with haemostasis. Prior to the use of H2O2, one should be cautious and understand its associated risks and precautions.
The Relationship Among Leisure Activities, Depression and Quality of Life in Community-Dwelling Elderly Koreans
Authors: Jeong Eun-Hwa , Park Ji-Hyuk
Published: June 2020

Objectives:

This study aimed to identify the relationship among leisure activities, depression, and quality of life of community-dwelling elderly in Korea.

Methods:

We assessed 100 community-dwelling older adults. Leisure participation and leisure exploration were assessed by using the leisure participation for the elderly. Depression was measured using the Korean version of the Short Form of Geriatric Depression Scale, and quality of life was assessed using EQ-5D. Statistical analysis was performed using the independent-sample t test, the chi-square test, Spearman correlation analysis, and multiple regression analysis.

Results:

EQ-5D scores of the depression group were significantly higher ( p < .01). Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) and EQ-5D scores showed a significant correlation with leisure participation and leisure exploration. Furthermore, leisure satisfaction was a significant factor in depressive symptoms (β = -.320, p < .01). There was a significant correlation between depression or quality of life and leisure activities corresponding to games, social activities, cultural activities, outings, and information and communication.

Conclusion:

This study showed that leisure participation and leisure exploration of the elderly were significantly related to depression and quality of life. Social, emotional, active, and productive activities were the leisure activities that positively affected depression and quality of life.
CAMPHOR score: patient-reported outcomes are improved by pulmonary endarterectomy in chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Newnham Michael , Bunclark Katherine , Abraham Nisha , Ali Samantha , Amaral-Almeida Liliana , Cannon John E. , Doughty Natalie , Ng Choo , Ponnaberanam Anie , Sheares Karen , Speed Nicola , Taboada Dolores , Toshner Mark , Tsui Steven , Jenkins David P. , Pepke-Zaba Joanna
Published: June 2020

Background

Pulmonary endarterectomy (PEA) is the recommended treatment for eligible patients with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH). The Cambridge Pulmonary Hypertension Outcome Review (CAMPHOR) score is an internationally validated patient-reported outcome (PRO) measure for CTEPH. It assesses three domains: activity, quality of life (QoL) and symptoms. We assessed PROs in patients with CTEPH undergoing PEA.

Methods

This retrospective observational study of consecutive CTEPH patients undergoing PEA at the UK national PEA centre between 2006 and 2017 assessed change in CAMPHOR score from baseline (pre-PEA) until up to 5 years post-PEA. CAMPHOR scores were compared between 1) those with and without clinically significant residual pulmonary hypertension and 2) those undergoing PEA and propensity-matched CTEPH patients who were not operated on. The minimally clinically important difference (MCID) was calculated using an anchor-based method.

Results

Out of 1324 CTEPH patients who underwent PEA, 1053 (80%) had a CAMPHOR score recorded pre-PEA, 934 (71%) had a score recorded within a year of PEA and 784 (60%) had both. There were significant improvements between pre- and post-PEA in all three CAMPHOR domains (median±interquartile range activity −5±7, QoL −4±8, symptoms −7±8; all p<0.0001). Improvements in CAMPHOR score were greater and more sustained in those without clinically significant residual pulmonary hypertension. CTEPH patients undergoing PEA had better CAMPHOR scores than those not operated on. The MCID in CAMPHOR score was −3±5 for activity, −4±7 for QoL and −6±7 for symptoms.

Conclusions

PROs are markedly improved by PEA in patients with CTEPH, more so in those without clinically significant residual pulmonary hypertension.
Effect of continuous positive airway pressure treatment on permeability, inflammation and mucus production of human epithelial cells
Authors: Grau-Bartual Sandra , Al-Jumaily Ahmed M. , Young Paul M. , Traini Daniela , Ghadiri Maliheh
Published: June 2020

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is the gold standard treatment for obstructive sleep apnoea, which affects millions of people worldwide. However, this therapy normally results in symptoms such as dryness, sneezing, rhinorrhoea, post-nasal drip, nasal congestion and epistaxis in the upper airways.

Using bronchial epithelial (Calu-3) and nasal epithelial (RPMI 2650) cells in anin vitrorespiratory model, this study, for the first time, investigates the effect of CPAP positive pressure on the human respiratory epithelial mechanisms that regulate upper airways lubrication characteristics. To understand how the epithelium and mucus are affected by this therapy, several parameters were determined before and after positive pressure application.

This work demonstrates that the positive pressure not only compresses the cells, but also reduces their permeability and mucus secretion rate, thus drying the airway surface liquid layer and altering the mucus/water ratio. It is also observed that the respiratory epithelia is equally inflamed without or with external humidification during CPAP application.

These findings clearly identify the causes of the side-effects reported by patients under CPAP therapy.
Evolutionary analysis of genes coding for Cysteine-RIch Secretory Proteins (CRISPs) in mammals
Authors: Arévalo Lena , Brukman Nicolás G. , Cuasnicú Patricia S. , Roldan Eduardo R. S.
Published: June 2020

Background

Cysteine-RIch Secretory Proteins (CRISP) are expressed in the reproductive tract of mammalian males and are involved in fertilization and related processes. Due to their important role in sperm performance and sperm-egg interaction, these genes are likely to be exposed to strong selective pressures, including postcopulatory sexual selection and/or male-female coevolution. We here perform a comparative evolutionary analysis ofCrispgenes in mammals. Currently, the nomenclature ofCRISPgenes is confusing, as a consequence of discrepancies between assignments of orthologs, particularly due to numbering ofCRISPgenes. This may generate problems when performing comparative evolutionary analyses of mammalian clades and species. To avoid such problems, we first carried out a study of possible orthologous relationships and putative origins of the knownCRISPgene sequences. Furthermore, and with the aim to facilitate analyses, we here propose a different nomenclature forCRISPgenes (EVAC1–4, “EVolutionarily-analyzed CRISP”) to be used in an evolutionary context.

Results

We found differing selective pressures amongCrispgenes.CRISP1/4(EVAC1) andCRISP2(EVAC2) orthologs are found across eutherian mammals and seem to be conserved in general, but show signs of positive selection in primateCRISP1/4 (EVAC1).RodentCrisp1(Evac3a) seems to evolve under a comparatively more relaxed constraint with positive selection on codon sites. Finally, murineCrisp3(Evac4), which appears to be specific to the genusMus, shows signs of possible positive selection. We further provide evidence for sexual selection on the sequence of one of these genes (Crisp1/4) that, unlike others, is thought to be exclusively expressed in male reproductive tissues.

Conclusions

We found differing selective pressures amongCRISPgenes and sexual selection as a contributing factor inCRISP1/4gene sequence evolution. Our evolutionary analysis of this unique set of genes contributes to a better understanding ofCrispfunction in particular and the influence of sexual selection on reproductive mechanisms in general.
Coding and long non-coding RNAs provide evidence of distinct transcriptional reprogramming for two ecotypes of the extremophile plant Eutrema salsugineum undergoing water deficit stress
Authors: Simopoulos Caitlin M. A. , MacLeod Mitchell J. R. , Irani Solmaz , Sung Wilson W. L. , Champigny Marc J. , Summers Peter S. , Golding G. Brian , Weretilnyk Elizabeth A.
Published: June 2020

Background

The severity and frequency of drought has increased around the globe, creating challenges in ensuring food security for a growing world population. As a consequence, improving water use efficiency by crops has become an important objective for crop improvement. Some wild crop relatives have adapted to extreme osmotic stresses and can provide valuable insights into traits and genetic signatures that can guide efforts to improve crop tolerance to water deficits.Eutrema salsugineum, a close relative of many cruciferous crops, is a halophytic plant and extremophyte model for abiotic stress research.

Results

Using comparative transcriptomics, we show that twoE. salsugineumecotypes display significantly different transcriptional responses towards a two-stage drought treatment. Even before visibly wilting, water deficit led to the differential expression of almost 1,100 genes for an ecotype from the semi-arid, sub-arctic Yukon, Canada, but only 63 genes for an ecotype from the semi-tropical, monsoonal, Shandong, China. After recovery and a second drought treatment, about 5,000 differentially expressed genes were detected in Shandong plants versus 1,900 genes in Yukon plants. Only 13 genes displayed similar drought-responsive patterns for both ecotypes. We detected 1,007 long non-protein coding RNAs (lncRNAs), 8% were only expressed in stress-treated plants, a surprising outcome given the documented association between lncRNA expression and stress. Co-expression network analysis of the transcriptomes identified eight gene clusters where at least half of the genes in each cluster were differentially expressed. While many gene clusters were correlated to drought treatments, only a single cluster significantly correlated to drought exposure in both ecotypes.

Conclusion

Extensive, ecotype-specific transcriptional reprogramming with drought was unexpected given that both ecotypes are adapted to saline habitats providing persistent exposure to osmotic stress. This ecotype-specific response would have escaped notice had we used a single exposure to water deficit. Finally, the apparent capacity to improve tolerance and growth after a drought episode represents an important adaptive trait for a plant that thrives under semi-arid Yukon conditions, and may be similarly advantageous for crop species experiencing stresses attributed to climate change.