bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abstract 15666: Comprehensive Biopsy and Clinical Features In Coronavirus Disease 2019 Vaccine-Associated Myocarditis - From Nationwide Survey COMBAT Study in Japan -
Authors: Omori Taku , Maruyama Kazuaki , Hatakeyama Kinta , Ogo Keiko , Ishibashi-Ueda Hatsue , Kato Seiya , Hiroe Michiaki , Imanaka-Yoshida Kyoko , Dohi Kaoru
Published: December 2023

Introduction:
Few studies have reported on myocardial tissue findings of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine-associated myocarditis (CVAM). This study aimed to investigate the clinical and histopathological features of patients with CVAM.

Methods:
This is a multicenter and retrospective cohort study (COMBAT study) of patients who were clinically diagnosed with CVAM and underwent endomyocardial biopsy in 42 participating centers in Japan. The inclusion criteria were the following; 1. Occurrence of clinical symptoms within 30 days after getting the first or second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine between February 2021 and March 2022. 2. The exclusion of acute coronary syndrome using coronary angiography. 3. Abnormality of laboratory tests. Fulminant myocarditis (FM) was defined as catecholamine or mechanical support use during hospitalization.

Results:
A total of 44 patients were included. Fifteen of 44 (34%) patients were clinically diagnosed with FM. FM patients were older and showed fewer ratio of males than non-FM. Also, FM patients showed significantly a longer duration from vaccination to the occurrence of symptoms and less frequency of chest pain than non-FM (Table).In hematoxylin-eosin (HE) stained samples, 28 of 44 (64%) patients were histologically diagnosed with acute myocarditis. Among them, 24 patients were diagnosed with lymphocytic myocarditis (LM) and 4 with eosinophilic myocarditis (EM). In HE stained samples, 5 of 24 (21%) LM patients visually showed a high ratio of eosinophils compared to the common type of LM. The 5 LM patients had a significantly larger number of eosinophils using by immunohistochemistry of eosinophilic cationic protein and a higher ratio of eosinophils to CD3 than the common type of LM (Figure).

Conclusions:
In patients with CVAM, there may be a difference in clinical features between FM and non-FM patients. Also, a relatively larger number of eosinophils in the myocardium could be infiltrated in patients with CVAM.
Abstract 16230: Genetically Confirmed Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, Initially Misdiagnosed as Cardiac Amyloidosis by Cardiac Biopsy
Authors: kim yeo reum , Shin Sang Hoon , Shin Chang Yong , lee junghyuck , Kim Do Young , KIM YONGHEE , Seung Jaeho , Jung Moon Kyung , Lee Hyun Ki , Roh Kyung Hoon , Jung Mi-Hyang , Hwang Byung-Hee , Chang Kiyuk
Published: December 2023

A 72-year-old male was admitted with worsening dyspnea. 5 years ago, echocardiography demonstrated biventricular hypertrophy with highly reflective myocardium. Cardiac MRI demonstrated epicardial and mesocardial late gadolinium enhancement suggesting possibility of infiltrative cardiomyopathy. Endomyocardial biopsy revealed the deposition of eosinophilic amorphous material, consistent with amyloidosis. Congo red stain was also compatible with cardiac amyloidosis. There was no evidence of monoclonal gammopathy in the serum and urine immunofixation and electrophoresis. He was diagnosed with cardiac amyloidosis of unknown etiology. 2 years later, he complained dyspnea on exertion. Echocardiography revealed decreased LV systolic function (LVEF 53 -> 38%). Single gene mutation test for TTR and a-galactosidase level turned out to be negative. Recently, echocardiography seems to be more stiff and accompanied by slight wall thinning locally. Cardiac MRI demonstrated wall thickening has been slightly decreased and enhancement of interventricular septum appeared to be more prominent. We performed DPD bone scan and it showed no cardiac uptake, suggesting low probability of ATTR cardiac amyloidosis. We performed genetic test (whole exome sequencing based on next generation sequencing) and it showed MYBPC3 (myosin binding protein C3) gene mutation, which suggestive of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. He was discharged with heart failure medications and familial screening is in progress. HCMP can be presented with many faces which often hampers the true diagnosis. We often think of pathological findings as a golden diagnosis, and try to match everything to the pathological findings, but cardiac pathology is a relatively unfamiliar area for most pathologists. Cardiologists need to closely review clinical and imaging findings along with pathological findings. And additional testing, such as genetic testing, may be helpful in making a diagnosis.
Days at Home After Transcatheter Versus Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement in Low-Risk Patients
Authors: Chung Mabel , Almarzooq Zaid I. , Xu Jiaman , Song Yang , Baron Suzanne J. , Kazi Dhruv S. , Yeh Robert W.
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND:

Days at home (DAH) represents an important patient-oriented outcome that quantifies time spent at home after a medical event; however, this outcome has not been fully evaluated for low-surgical-risk patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). We sought to compare 1- and 2-year DAH (DAH
365
and DAH
730
) among low-risk patients participating in a randomized trial of TAVR with a self-expanding bioprosthesis versus surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR).

METHODS:

Using Medicare-linked data from the Evolut Low Risk trial, we identified 619 patients: 606 (322 TAVR/284 SAVR) and 593 (312 TAVR/281 SAVR) were analyzed at 1 and 2 years, respectively. DAH was calculated as days alive and spent outside a hospital, inpatient rehabilitation, skilled nursing facility, long-term acute care hospital, emergency department, or observation stay. Mean DAH was compared using the
t
test.

RESULTS:

The mean (SD) age and female sex were 74.7 (5.1) and 74.3 (4.9) years and 34.6% (115/332) and 30.3% (87/287) in TAVR and SAVR, respectively. Postprocedural discharge to rehabilitation occurred in ≤3.0% (≤10/332) in TAVR and 4.5% (13/287) in SAVR. The mean DAH
365
was comparable in TAVR versus SAVR (352.2±45.4 versus 347.8±39.0; difference in days, 4.5 [95% CI, 2.3–11.2];
P
=0.20). DAH
730
was also comparable in TAVR versus SAVR (701.6±106.0 versus 699.6±94.5; difference in days, 2.0 [−14.1 to 18.2];
P
=0.81). Secondary outcomes DAH
30
and DAH
90
were higher in TAVR (DAH
30
, 26.0±3.6 versus 20.7±6.4; difference in days, 5.3 [4.5–6.2];
P
<0.001; DAH
90
, 85.1±8.3 versus 78.7±13.6; difference in days, 6.4 [4.6–8.2];
P
<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS:

In the Evolut Low Risk trial linked to Medicare, low-risk patients undergoing TAVR spend a similar number of days at home at 1 and 2 years compared with SAVR. Days spent at home at 30 and 90 days were higher in TAVR. In contrast to higher-risk patients studied in prior work, there is no clear advantage of TAVR versus SAVR for DAH in the first 2 years after AVR in low-surgical-risk patients.
Causal Association Between Subtypes of Excessive Daytime Sleepiness and Risk of Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Goodman Matthew O. , Dashti Hassan S. , Lane Jacqueline M. , Windred Daniel P. , Burns Angus , Jones Samuel E. , Sofer Tamar , Purcell Shaun M. , Zhu Xiaofeng , Ollila Hanna M. , Kyle Simon D. , Spiegelhalder Kai , Peker Yuksel , Huang Tianyi , Cain Sean W. , Phillips Andrew J. K. , Saxena Richa , Rutter Martin K. , Redline Susan , Wang Heming
Published: December 2023

Background

Excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS), experienced in 10% to 20% of the population, has been associated with cardiovascular disease and death. However, the condition is heterogeneous and is prevalent in individuals having short and long sleep duration. We sought to clarify the relationship between sleep duration subtypes of EDS with cardiovascular outcomes, accounting for these subtypes.

Methods and Results

We defined 3 sleep duration subtypes of excessive daytime sleepiness: normal (6–9 hours), short (<6 hours), and long (>9 hours), and compared these with a nonsleepy, normal‐sleep‐duration reference group. We analyzed their associations with incident myocardial infarction (MI) and stroke using medical records of 355 901 UK Biobank participants and performed 2‐sample Mendelian randomization for each outcome. Compared with healthy sleep, long‐sleep EDS was associated with an 83% increased rate of MI (hazard ratio, 1.83 [95% CI, 1.21–2.77]) during 8.2‐year median follow‐up, adjusting for multiple health and sociodemographic factors. Mendelian randomization analysis provided supporting evidence of a causal role for a genetic long‐sleep EDS subtype in MI (inverse‐variance weighted β=1.995,
P
=0.001). In contrast, we did not find evidence that other subtypes of EDS were associated with incident MI or any associations with stroke (
P
>0.05).

Conclusions

Our study suggests the previous evidence linking EDS with increased cardiovascular disease risk may be primarily driven by the effect of its long‐sleep subtype on higher risk of MI. Underlying mechanisms remain to be investigated but may involve sleep irregularity and circadian disruption, suggesting a need for novel interventions in this population.
Métallurgie Ancienne du site de Tamdûlt, Anti-Atlas Marocain : Contexte Géologique et Minier
Authors: El ouad Zoubair , Souhassou Mustapha , Ikenne Moha
Published: December 2023

Tamdûlt est une ville du Maroc présaharien médiéval qui était un endroit de forte activité commerciale et industrielle grâce à la richesse de son sous-sol et de sa situation sur l’une des voies commerciales reliant le Maroc avec l’Afrique sub-saharienne entre le IXe et le XIVe siècle. Ainsi, la frappe monétaire était l’un des piliers de son développement industriel durant l’époque médiévale. Cette ville comporte des vestiges archéologiques (scories, combustible nécessaire à la réduction du minerai, pièces de monnaie) qui ont un intérêt scientifique exceptionnel. Cependant, les recherches archéologiques menées depuis les années soixante-dix, ne présentent pas de données plus précises sur l’activité minière et métallurgique. Les vestiges de cette dernière reflètent qu’ils sont basés sur l’extraction de cuivre. Nos prospections et interprétations de terrain ont révélé l’existence de scories argentifères (en liaison avec des sites miniers d’extraction de minerais). Cette découverte apporte des données nouvelles et offrent une autre dimension au site, puisqu’en effet, l’argent serait lié à la frappe monétaire aux périodes médiévales. Ces données vont contribuer à préciser et à valoriser, d’avantage, l’histoire minière et métallurgique de cette ville et l’attribuer à son environnement minier régional.
Obituary: Brian John Smith 24.6.1939–19.7.2006
Authors: BOYD SUE , MONGER ALAN
Published: December 2023

Brian Smith made a very significant contribution to malacology, particularly to our knowledge of the non-marine molluscs of south-eastern Australia. He was well known in the Australian museum community and studied museum mollusc collections throughout the country as well as overseas.
Indices to authors and new taxa in volume 26 (2006)
Authors: Anonymous
Published: December 2023

Index
Book Review:A systematic list of the marine molluscs of Tasmaniaby Simon J. Grove, Ron C. Kershaw, Brian J. Smith and Elizabeth Turner.
Authors: PONDER WINSTON
Published: December 2023

There is a long tradition of listing the Tasmanian molluscan fauna. May’s illustrated checklist (1923), updated by Macpherson (May and Macpherson 1958), is probably the best known such list, and probably the most useful. The last checklist was that of Kershaw (1955). This current work has been...
Gonad maturation of the tropical abaloneHaliotis variaLinnaeus 1758 (Vetigastropoda: Haliotidae)
Authors: NAJMUDEEN T. M.
Published: December 2023

Gonad development of the tropical abalone Haliotis varia Linnaeus, 1758 from the Gulf of Mannar, southeast coast of India, was studied through the observation of gonad histology and analysis of gonadosomatic index. The sequence of gametogenesis was similar to previously described tropical haliotids. Gonad maturation stages were assigned to six categories and the details of different stages documented. Pre-vitellogenic oocytes were abundant in the early and late maturing ovary and were attached to the connective tissue tubules by their stalks. Vitellogenesis began when the primary oocytes reached 50 μm in diameter culminating in ripe oocytes of 180 ± 20 μm in diameter. All six gonad maturity stages were observed during the 14-month study period suggesting that gametogenesis was continuous throughout the year. The breeding season extended from December to February with asynchronous gonad development. Since active gametogenesis in this species was observed in all months, mature specimens could be produced throughout the year by induced maturation which would facilitate hatchery production.
Four new species of shallow water pygmy octopus (Mollusca: Cephalopoda)from the Kingdom of Tonga
Authors: HUFFARD CHRISTINE L.
Published: December 2023

Four new species of shallow water pygmy octopus from Tonga are described. Morphologic descriptions and illustrations are given of internal and external anatomy. Octopus gorgonus n. sp. bears enlarged suckers on arms III and IV of males. Normal arms have 105–135 suckers. Preserved specimens are reddish-orange with large, regularly spaced, cream-colored spots on the dorsal mantle, head and arms, and ocelli are absent. Octopus humilis n. sp. bears slightly enlarged suckers on pairs II, III, and IV of the single male specimen. Normal arms which have up to 144 suckers. The dorsal surface is grey-brown. A pair of ocelli is present, without iridescence. Octopus mariles n. sp. has no distinctly enlarged suckers. Sucker counts range from 125–160 on normal arms. Preserved specimens are uniform dark-red to black, and ocelli are absent. Abdopus undulatus n. sp. bears enlarged suckers on arms II and III of males, but diameter is variable. Sucker counts range from 130–178 on normal arms. Preserved specimens are peach to orange-brown, with faint tan smudges spaced evenly on arm crown and webs. No ocelli are present.
Osmoregulation and mRNA expression of calcitonin-related receptor in the PacificoysterCrassostrea gigas
Authors: JO PIL GUE , CHOI CHEOL YOUNG
Published: December 2023

The Pacific oyster Crassostrea gigas is extensively cultivated in Korea, constituting an important economic activity in the country. Salinity is highly relevant to the growth, maturation, distribution, food intake, energy activation, and metabolic activities of many types of bivalves, including C. gigas. In our experiments, the osmotic concentration of the haemolymph changed immediately after exposure of the oysters to high salinity and the concentrations of osmolality, Na+, Cl- and Ca2+ peaked at 72 h in the haemolymph. Calcitonin is a key hormone involved in regulation of calcium metabolism. Under conditions of hypersalinity, the expression of the calcitonin-related receptor (CT-R) mRNA in the gill significantly increased for 72 h and then decreased. This pattern was similar to the changes in concentration of osmolality and Na+, Cl- and Ca2+ concentration. It is likely that CT-R plays an important role in osmoregulation in C. gigas through the regulation of calcium metabolism and osmolality.
Two new species of pygmy octopuses (Cephalopoda: Octopodidae) from deep water off the Ryukyu Archipelago, southern Japan
Authors: KANEKO NATSUMI , KUBODERA TSUNEMI
Published: December 2023

Two new species of pygmy octopuses are described from upper bathyal waters (350–370 m) around the Ryukyu Archipelago. Bathypolypus rubrostictus n. sp. is characterized by its small body (20 mm ML), short arms (2–2.5×ML), no enlarged suckers, large spoon-shaped ligula with five deep transverse laminae and large round calamus. There are numerous small brownish-red spots on the dorsal surface of the mantle, which is smooth, without papillae, and webs are pale reddish brown. Octopus diminutus n. sp. is characterized by its diminutive adult body size (13–17 mm ML), short arms (2–3×ML), enlarged suckers on the arms of the male, very large pointed calamus, pale brown body colour, and elongate compound superocular papillae. The generic placement of the two species and taxonomic definitions of the genera Octopus and Bathypolypus are discussed.
The external morphology, radula and distribution of Gabrielona nepeanensis (Gatliff amp; Gabriel, 1908) (Vetigastropoda: Phasianellidae: Gabrieloninae), with comparative data on Gabrielona pisinna Robertson, 1973
Authors: VAFIADIS PLATON , CRAM DON
Published: December 2023

The external morphology and radula of Gabrielona nepeanensis (Gatliff Gabriel, 1908) (Phasianellidae, Gabrieloninae) are described and are the first reported observations of the head-foot morphology within the subfamily. The living animal of G. nepeanensis is highly active, with a mobile, bi-lobed propodium bearing an anterior pedal gland, long cephalic tentacles, neck lobes but no cephalic lappets, and four pairs of epipodial tentacles. A half row of its rhipidoglossate radula consists of a central tooth, four lateral teeth and at least 25 marginal teeth. The operculum and shell of G. nepeanensis are described and discussed, with emphasis on the characters common to the subfamily. The shell, radula and operculum are most similar to that of the Indo-West Pacific species Gabrielona pisinna Robertson, 1973, and less so to that of the Caribbean species Eugabrielona sulcifera  (Robertson, 1973). The known geographic ranges of G. nepeanensis and G. pisinna are expanded, and these species are shown to be sympatric throughout much of southern Australia.
News: Changes to amp; Digitization of past issues of Molluscan Research
Authors: Anonymous
Published: December 2023

This is the first issue of Molluscan Research that is jointly published by the Malacological Society of Australasia and the Society for the Study of Molluscan Diversity (formally The Malacozoological Association of Yamaguchi which published the journal Yuriyagai). As announced in the previous issue…
Expansion of an invasive freshwater snail Physa acuta (Gastropoda: Physidae) in China
Authors: GUO YUNHAI , HWANG CHUNG-CHI , HE HONGXUAN
Published: December 2023

The pulmonate freshwater snail Physa acuta Draparnaud, 1805 has been previously reported as an invasive species in China and many other parts of the world. Populations in Beijing and Shandong, Shanxi, Yunnan and Hubei Provinces are reported for the first time based on collections made between August and October 2007. The potential for further spread of this species in China is discussed.
Genetic basis of racemism and ease of interchiral mating in a clausiliid species of snails
Authors: UTSUNO HIROKI , KASEM SHITHILA , FUKUDA HIROSHI , ASAMI TAKAHIRO
Published: December 2023

Species that develop in left-right polarity reversal have repeatedly evolved in gastropods, uniquely among metazoans. To clarify mechanisms underlying the evolution of whole-body reversal, it is essential to understand the genetic variability of developmental polarity. Here we show experimental evidence for the maternal inheritance of racemism, in which both dextral and sinistral siblings are produced in the same broods, in the ovoviviparous land snail Hemizaptyx stimpsoni. In contrast to the traditionally known variation in left-right polarity that is determined by the dichotomous dextral and sinistral alleles, we found that a recessive allele at a nuclear locus is responsible for the present racemism. This genetic basis allowed us to estimate the frequency of the enantiomorphy allele to be 0.2 to 0.3 in the population where we found dextral variants. The ratio between dextral and sinistral siblings was close to 0.5 in total mean but bimodally distributed among maternal parents. The overall proportions of morphs changed across generations suggesting the operation of additional genetic factors. There was no detectable difference in the reproductive success of interchiral and intrachiral mating pairs. This suggests that positive frequency-dependent selection in high-spired snails may not necessarily be as strong as that known in the chirally-dimorphic Partula suturalis.
Field observations of mating in Octopus tetricus Gould, 1852 and Amphioctopus marginatus (Taki, 1964) (Cephalopoda: Octopodidae)
Authors: HUFFARD CHRISTINE L. , GODFREY-SMITH PETER
Published: December 2023

We present observations of mating by Octopus tetricus Gould, 1852 and Amphioctopus marginatus (Taki, 1964) in the wild. Males of both species mated in the open using the ‘reach’ position, however one male O. tetricus also incorporated the ‘mount’position when copulating with a smaller female. A small male Octopus tetricus copulated by stretching the hectocotylus (= mating arm) over rugged terrain, to a larger female. Direct evidence confirms the existence of inter-sexual aggression during mating in this species. We observed a male A. marginatus mate at close proximity to the smaller female, with minimal stretching of the hectocotylus, and with no evidence of aggression.
Two new species of Lentidium (Myida: Corbulidae) from tropical northern Australia: remarkable fresh/fluviatile to brackish-water bivalves
Authors: HALLAN ANDERS , WILLAN RICHARD C.
Published: December 2023

Lentidium, sole genus in the subfamily Lentidiinae of the Corbulidae, is remarkable because of its active lifestyle, strong foot and thin shell, as well as being far more equivalve and equilateral than the majority of species within the family. Lentidium is presently known by the extant Euasian species Lentidium mediterraneum (O.G. Costa, 1823) in addition to four fossil species. Two new extant species from tropical northern Australia are described, of which L. origolacus n. sp. has an extensive fossil record, particularly in non-marine phases of the Gulf of Carpentaria basin through most of the last Interglacial period (from approx. 130,000 years) to the present time. The other, L. dalyfluvialis n. sp., appears to be restricted to the Daly River in the Northern Territory. Both species are extremely abundant in certain fluviatile/lacustrine habitats. Aspects of the ecology of each species are discussed. L. dalyfluvialis, though normally infaunal and endobyssate, is capable of rapid movement and active burrowing. Such behaviour, while highly unusual for the family, is presumably necessary for survival in major rivers prone to sudden flooding during the monsoon season.
Book review: Australian Land Snails. Volume 1—A field guide to Eastern Australian species
Authors: KÖHLER FRANK
Published: December 2023

Land snails are an ecologically important, very diverse element of the Australian terrestrial fauna and can be found in virtually all kinds of habitats. Many amateurs and professionals have a keen interest in these organisms, and if you are one of them, the present book is a must have! The authors have...
Morphology of an endosymbiotic bivalve, Entovalva nhatrangensis (Bristow, Berland, Schander amp; Vo, 2010) (Galeommatoidea)
Authors: LÜTZEN J. , BRISTOW G.A.
Published: December 2023

We describe the morphology of Entovalva nhatrangensis Bristow, Berland, Schander Vo, 2010, an endosymbiontic bivalve living in the oesophagus of Holothuria spinifera and H. leucospilota in Vietnam. The delicate shells are entirely internalized. The body is very small compared to the foot, which is dorso-ventrally flattened and contains the digestive diverticula and the fertile parts of the gonads. Even though the gills are small, they probably serve in collecting suspended matter, and in addition, the species clearly feeds on benthic diatoms, which it probably sorts out from the contents of the host’s gut. The species is a protandric hermaphrodite. Most males have a total length of 1.5–3.0 mm and above that size start changing sex to become females, which may attain a total length of nearly nine mm. Sperm is transferred in spermatophores with a solid wall produced by glands within the male siphon. One to three spermatophores are placed on the gills of females and the ova become fertilized as they pass from the genital pores to the siphon, where they are brooded until released as D-larvae.
Shell wiping in Calliostoma alertae Marshall, 1995 (Calliostomatidae; Trochoidea)
Authors: HOLMES S.P. , DUNCAN P.F. , SCHNABEL K.E.
Published: December 2023

Following the serendipitous capture of the bathyal gastropod Calliostoma (Otukaia) alertae, observations were made to deter-mine if it would wipe the surface of its shell with its foot, a phenomenon know as shell wiping and only recorded in four other gastropod species, all Calliostomatids. C. alertae wiped its shell at least once every 24 h, in an identical manner recorded for other species. Because of its bathyal habitat and lack of shell fouling, it is concluded that shell wiping in C. alertae probably functions to reduce shell fouling and/or to reduce any predation pressure. Given the different habitats, depths, function and dis-tributions of the species known to exhibit shell wiping, it is likely that shell wiping is a feature common in the genus Callios-toma.
Obituary: John Morton B.Sc., M.Sc. (Auckland), Ph.D., D.Sc. (London), FRSNZ, QSO (18 July 1923–6 March 2011)
Authors: MORTON BRIAN
Published: December 2023

One of New Zealand’s most respected scientists, a malacologist, zoologist, ecologist and conservationist, has died. John Morton was born in the small country town of Morrinsville, near Waikato, on New Zealand’s north island on 18 July 1923…
Index of authors and new taxa in volume 31 (2011)
Authors: Anonymous
Published: December 2023

Index
A new species of Pecten (Mollusca: Bivalvia: Pectinidae) from northern Western Australia
Authors: DUNCAN PETER F. , WILSON GARY
Published: December 2023

Pecten dijkstrai n. sp. is described from several localities in northern Western Australia. It represents a new, rare example of a tropical member of the genus Pecten. The new species most closely resembles P. excavatus Anton, 1838, previously reported from southern Japan to Indonesia, differing in its smaller size, greater length (antero-posterior dimension), more numerous, lower radial costae and slightly paler colouration.
The Recent Typhinae (Gastropoda: Muricidae) of New Zealand
Authors: HOUART ROLAND , MARSHALL BRUCE A.
Published: December 2023

The Recent Typhinae from the New Zealand region are reviewed. Four species are recognized: Monstrotyphis pauperis (Mestayer, 1916), M. montfortii (A. Adams, 1863), M. tangaroa n. sp. and Siphonochelus solus Vella, 1961. A possible fifth species, known from a single, subadult specimen, remains unidentified.
Index of authors and new taxa in volume 32 (2012)
Authors: Anonymous
Published: December 2023

Index with the announcement "Change of publisher for Molluscan Research"
The type of Setophaga ruficoronata (Kaup 1851) is a hybrid: implications for the taxonomy of Myioborus warblers (Passeriformes: Parulidae)
Authors: CUERVO ANDRÉS M. , ARIAS LAURA N. CÉSPEDES
Published: December 2023

Hybridization, rapid diversification, and uncertainties surrounding type specimens add complexity to the already intricate taxonomy of high Andean Myioborus warblers of northern South America. In this study, we propose a reassessment of species boundaries within M. ornatus and M. melanocephalus, drawing on comparisons of name-bearing types. We also consider insights from a recent study of a hybrid zone in southern Colombia and northern Ecuador. We present three species delimitation alternatives that offer improved clarity compared to the current taxonomy, and discuss the rationale behind recognizing chrysops and bairdi as distinct species while redefining the species ornatus and melanocephalus, given the available evidence.
Redescription and molecular characterization of Panagrellus ceylonensis (Nematoda, Rhabditida, Panagrolaimidae) from India
Authors: HEENA  , KUMAR NITESH , CHAUBEY ASHOK KUMAR
Published: December 2023

A species of genus Panagrellus was discovered from a wet season form of an oriental common evening brown butterfly Melanitis leda. In this study, a detailed description of Panagrellus ceylonensis is provided including the morphometry, light microscopy and molecular (18S and 28S rDNA genes) studies. Morphological studies on the species agree with original description and characterized by having 1250–1481µm long body in females and 949–1305µm in males, lateral fields with four longitudinal incisures, lip region continuous and 8–11 µm wide, six offset lips with protruding labial sensilla, neck 124–173 µm long, excretory pore at the level of basal bulb, vulva post-equatorial (V = 68–71), vagina anteriorly orientated with heavily muscled vaginal walls, post-vulval uterine sac 111–135 µm long or 1.7–2.6 times as long as the corresponding body diameter, tail conical elongate with an acute terminus in both sexes, spicule 71–91 µm long, ventrally curved having hooked manubrium and bifurcated lamina tip, lamina ventrally curved with dorsal deflexion at about 60% of spicule length, gubernaculum 26–31 µm long and well developed. Morphologically, the Indian population of P. ceylonensis does not show a significant difference from the type material of P. ceylonensis in the original description. For molecular studies of this species, the sequence of 18S rDNA is obtained for the first time. Phylogenetic trees based on 18S and 28S rDNA sequences are provided in this study. Additionally, bionomics and global distribution of the species of Panagrellus genus are also discussed. In conclusion, our study provides a comprehensive morphological characterisation and molecular marker sequences of 18S, and 28S genes that can be used to support future taxonomical research on this species and emphasizes the importance of combining molecular data with morphological data to describe the species accurately.
First records of penicillate millipedes (Diplopoda, Polyxenidae) from Thailand, with descriptions of two new species
Authors: HUYNH CUONG , VEENSTRA ANNEKE A , LIKHITRAKARN NATDANAI
Published: December 2023

Two new species are described from the family Polyxenidae. Monographis panhai sp. nov. and Unixenus thailandicus sp. nov. represent the first records of their respective genera in Thailand. Monographis panhai sp. nov. shows distinct morphological differences in the arrangement of sensilla in the antennomere VI, as well as in the structures of the labrum and the claw. Collections from different areas of Thailand showed that not only is it widespread but also exhibits geographic variation in morphology. Unixenus thailandicus sp. nov. exhibits sexual dimorphism in the number of conical sensilla on the lateral palp, with 24 in males and 22 in females, differing from the typical count of 13 within the genus.
3. Germany Lacks Political Will to Finance Needed Public-Investment
Boost
Authors: Rietzler Katja , Watt Andrew , Juergens Ekaterina
Published: December 2023

After more than a decade of weak public investment, Germany has accumulated a substantial public-investment backlog. The requirements for additional public investment in the next decade are likely in the range of €600 to 800bn, which would imply a further commitment of 1.6 to 2.1% of GDP each year. The current fiscal situation is relatively favourable on the financing side but will tighten already from 2024, as debt-brake constraints are applied, reserves have been used up, interest rates have risen and, in the medium term, debt servicing from additional borrowing during the period in which national and EU fiscal rules were suspended falls due. Despite rhetorical commitments to higher public investment, which voters support, there is a lack of political will to agree on the tax increases or additional borrowing needed for a substantial medium-term investment boost. Also, RRF spending, which makes only a minor contribution in Germany, will expire in 2026.
11. European Public Goods
Authors: Buti Marco , Coloccia Alessandro , Messori Marcello
Published: December 2023

A well-functioning economic union needs a permanent central fiscal capacity. Stepping up the supply of European Public Goods (EPGs) delivered and financed at EU level appears the most promising avenue. EPGs should meet a number of criteria at the intersection of the economic theory of public goods, the theory of fiscal federalism, and EU-specific institutional and political features. The green, digital, and social transition; the supply of critical raw materials; health; security; and defence define the areas where economic, institutional, and political coherence meet. Several issues still need to be addressed before EPGs could be launched at the appropriate scale. However, the ongoing mid-term review of the EU Multiannual Financial Framework provides an opportunity for bringing EPGs to the centre of the policy debate.
12. Options for a Permanent EU Sovereign
Fund
Authors: Heimberger Phillip , Lichtenberger Andreas
Published: December 2023

This chapter argues that a new, permanent EU fiscal capacity can contribute to meeting the green-transition challenges and providing countercyclical macroeconomic stabilisation. While the Recovery and Resilience Fund (RRF) is not large enough to address the current challenges, its introduction was an essential step forward in providing an operational blueprint for a permanent EU investment fund. The reform of EU fiscal rules is set to provide insufficient scope for the additional public climate investment required to meet the climate targets. Furthermore, the EU sovereignty fund proposed by the European Commission in the form of the Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP) adds little new money, focuses on green-tech subsidies instead of public investment, and falls short of providing a realistic vision of meeting public investment
Safety, tolerability, and activity of the active C1s antibody riliprubart in cold agglutinin disease: a phase 1b study
Authors: D’Sa Shirley , Vos Josephine M. I. , Barcellini Wilma , Wardęcki Marek , Perrin Laurent , Barker Graham , Zilberstein Moshe , Storek Michael , Chow Timothy , Röth Alexander
Published: December 2023

Cold agglutinin disease is a rare autoimmune hemolytic anemia characterized by complement pathway-mediated hemolysis. Riliprubart (SAR445088, BIVV020), a second-generation classical complement inhibitor, is a humanized monoclonal antibody that selectively inhibits only the activated form of C1s. This Phase 1b study evaluated the safety, tolerability, and effect on hemolysis of riliprubart in adult patients with cold agglutinin disease. On day 1, 12 patients received a single IV dose of either 30 mg/kg (n = 6) or 15 mg/kg (n = 6) of riliprubart and were subsequently followed for 15 weeks. Riliprubart was generally well tolerated; there were no treatment-emergent serious adverse events, or treatment-emergent adverse events leading to death or permanent study discontinuation. There were no reports of serious infections, encapsulated bacterial infections including meningococcal infections, hypersensitivity, or thromboembolic events. Rapid improvements in hemoglobin (day 5) and bilirubin (day 1) were observed in both treatment cohorts. Mean hemoglobin levels were maintained at >11.0 g/dL from day 29 and mean levels of bilirubin were normalized by day 29; both responses were maintained throughout the study. Improvements in clinical markers closely correlated with a sustained reduction in the 50% hemolytic complement (CH50) throughout the study. Mean C4 levels, an in vivo marker of treatment activity, increased 1 week after treatment with either dose of riliprubart and were sustained throughout the study. In conclusion, a single IV dose of riliprubart was well tolerated, and led to rapid classical complement inhibition, control of hemolysis, and improvement in anemia, all of which were sustained over 15 weeks. This trial was registered at www.ClinicalTrials.gov as #NCT04269551.
Ultrasound-assisted lumbar puncture with a horizontal and perpendicular paramedian approach based on positioning in patients with abnormal spinal anatomy: a case report and technical description
Authors: Huang Chanyan , Li Jiawen , Guo Yuting , Zhang Yuanjia , Luo Wei , Diedrich Daniel A. , Zhang Tao , Huang Wenqi , Xiao Ying
Published: December 2023

Background

The use of ultrasound has been reported to be beneficial in challenging neuraxial procedures. The angled probe is responsible for the main limitations of previous ultrasound-assisted techniques. We developed a novel technique for challenging lumbar puncture, aiming to locate the needle entry point which allowed for a horizontal and perpendicular needle trajectory and thereby addressed the drawbacks of earlier ultrasound-assisted techniques.

Case presentation

Patient 1 was an adult patient with severe scoliosis who underwent a series of intrathecal injections of nusinersen. The preprocedural ultrasound scan revealed a cephalad probe’s angulation (relative to the edge of the bed) in the paramedian sagittal oblique view, and then the probe was rotated 90° into a transverse plane and we noted that a rocking maneuver was required to obtain normalized views. Then the shoulders were moved forward to eliminate the need for cephalad angulation of the probe. The degree of rocking was translated to a lateral offset from the midline of the spine through an imaginary lumbar puncture’s triangle model, and a needle entry point was marked. The spinal needle was advanced through this marking-point without craniocaudal and lateromedial angulation, and first-pass success was achieved in all eight lumbar punctures. Patient 2 was an elderly patient with ankylosing spondylitis who underwent spinal anesthesia for transurethral resection of the prostate. The patient was positioned anteriorly obliquely to create a vertebral rotation that eliminated medial angulation in the paramedian approach. The procedure succeeded on the first pass.

Conclusions

This ultrasound-assisted paramedian approach with a horizontal and perpendicular needle trajectory may be a promising technique that can help circumvent challenging anatomy. Larger case series and prospective studies are warranted to define its superiority to alternative approaches of lumbar puncture for patients with difficulties.
Elevated serum neuropeptide Y levels are associated with carotid plaque formation in Chinese adults: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Wang Wan-da , Lin Hui-li , Zheng Yan-li , Wang Sheng-nan , Wang Yao-guo
Published: December 2023

Background

Carotid plaque (CP) formation is an important consequence of atherosclerosis and leads to significant complications. Levels of neuropeptide Y (NPY), which is a sympathetic neurotransmitter, are elevated in cardiovascular diseases. It also has important roles in inflammatory conditions. This study aimed to explore the relationship between serum NPY and CP and to study further the influence of NPY and inflammatory factors on CP.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted among 300 adults who underwent a health examination at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University in Fujian Province, of whom 177 were finally enrolled. The participants were divided into the CP (n = 120) and non-CP (NCP) or control (n = 57) groups according to the results of carotid artery color Doppler ultrasound. The CP group was further classified into stable plaque (SP, n = 80) and vulnerable plaque (VP, n = 40) groups based on plaque characteristics. Serum NPY and pro-inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels were examined. Univariate and correlation analyses were used to evaluate the correlation between serum NPY levels, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and the CP phenotype.

Results

The serum NPY and TNF-α levels of patients in the CP group were significantly higher than those in individuals from the NCP group [ (177.30 ± 43.29) pg.mL− 1 vs. (121.53 ± 40.16)pg.mL− 1, P < 0.001; (41.94 ± 14.19) pg.mL− 1 vs.(33.54 ± 13.37)pg.mL− 1, P = 0.003]. The serum NPY levels of the patients in the VP group were significantly higher than those in patients from the SP group [(191.67 ± 39.87)ng.L− 1 vs.(170.12 ± 43.37)ng.L− 1, P = 0.01, P < 0.05]. Serum TNF-α and NPY levels were positively correlated among patients from the CP group (r = 0.184, P = 0.044). The binary logistic regression analysis showed that serum NPY and TNF-α were independent influencing factors of CP [(OR = 1.029, P < 0.001);(OR = 1.030, P = 0.023)]. The area under the ROC curve of NPY predicting the CP showed statistical significance at a value of 0.819.

Conclusion

Together, elevated serum NPY levels seem to be associated with the occurrence of coronary atherosclerosis in Chinese adults.
The association between jaundice and poorly differentiated pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (Ki67 index > 55.0%)
Authors: Liu Yongkang , Wang Jiangchuan , Zhou Hao , Wei Zicheng , Wang Jianhua , Wang Zhongqiu , Chen Xiao
Published: December 2023

Background

Jaundice occurs in some pancreatic disease. However, its occurrences and role in pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (PNENs) has not been well studied. In this study we showed the association between jaundice and the risk of high grade and poorly differentiated PNENs.

Methods

Ninety-three patients with head-neck PNENs were included. Poorly differentiated pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms were defined by a ki67 index > 55.0%. Logistic regression was used to show the association between demographic information, clinical signs and symptoms and the risk of poorly differentiated tumors. A nomogram model was developed to predict poorly differentiated tumor.

Results

Eight of 93 PNEN patients (8.6%) had jaundice. The age and ki67 index in patients with jaundice were significantly higher than those patients without jaundice. All jaundice occurred in patients with grade 3 PNENs. Mutivariable regression analysis showed that age (odds ratio(OR) = 1.10, 95% confidence interval (CI):1.02–1.19), tumor size (OR = 1.42, 95%CI:1.01-2.00) and jaundice (OR = 14.98, 95%CI: 1.22-184.09) were associated with the risk of poorly differentiated PNENs. The age and size combination showed a good performance in predicting poorly differentiated PNENs (area under the curve (AUC) = 0.81, 95% CI: 0.71–0.90). The addition of jaundice further improved the age- and size-based model (AUC = 0.86, 95% CI: 0.78–0.91). A nomogram was developed based on age, tumor size and jaundice.

Conclusion

Our data showed that jaundice was associated with the risk of high grade PNENs and poorly differentiated PNENs.
Corticobasal syndrome mimicking Foix-Chavany-Marie syndrome with suggested 4-repeat tauopathy by tau PET
Authors: Nakamura Kosei , Kuroha Yasuko , Hatakeyama Masahiro , Kimura Atsushi Michael , Nakamura Yukimi , Murakami Yoshihiro , Watanabe Masaki , Igarashi Hironaka , Takahashi Tetsuya , Shimada Hitoshi
Published: December 2023

Background

Corticobasal syndrome (CBS) is a neurodegenerative disease diagnosed based on clinical manifestations such as asymmetrical parkinsonism, limb apraxia, and speech and language impairment. The background pathology of CBS is commonly a variety of proteinopathies, but association with cerebrovascular disease has also been reported. Foix-Chavany-Marie syndrome (FCMS) is a rare neurological disorder characterized by facio-pharyngo-glossal diplegia with automatic-voluntary movement dissociation presenting with bilateral paresis of the facial, lingual, pharyngeal and masticatory muscles. FCMS is commonly attributable to stroke. Transactive response DNA binding protein of 43 kD (TDP-43) proteinopathy is also known as the pathological background of FCMS, while the pathological background of the majority of CBS cases consists of diverse tauopathies instead of TDP-43 proteinopathy. In this report, we describe a case mimicking FCMS that was finally diagnosed as CBS with suggested 4-repeat tauopathy.

Case presentation

A 68-year-old female started experiencing difficulty speaking followed by difficulty writing, and especially texting, several years before her visit. Her impairment had been gradually worsening, and she came to our hospital. On neurological examination, she demonstrated the facial apraxia, frontal lobe dysfunction, and upper motor neuron signs. She presented some characteristics suggestive of FCMS. Her symptoms exhibited rapid progression and myoclonus, parkinsonism, and left-side dominant cortical sensory deficit occurred, resulting in the fulfillment of diagnostic criteria for CBS after 9 months. Tau PET imaging displayed notable ligand uptake in the brainstem, subthalamic nuclei, basal ganglia, and bilateral subcortical frontal lobe, suggesting that her pathological background was 4-repeat tauopathy. As a result of her progressive dysphagia, she became unable to eat and passed away after 12 months.

Conclusion

We hereby present an atypical case of CBS showing clinical features mimicking FCMS at first presentation. TDP-43 proteinopathy was suspected based on the clinical symptoms in the early stages of the disease; however, the clinical course and imaging findings including tau PET suggested that her pathological background was 4-repeat tauopathy.
A scoping review of the reasons for and approaches to non-uptake of pertussis and influenza vaccinations in pregnant women in the United Kingdom and Ireland
Authors: McCarron Stephanie Ann , Bradley Declan Terence , Hart Nigel David
Published: December 2023

Background

Pertussis and influenza cause significant morbidity and mortality in pregnancy and the neonatal period. Maternal vaccination in pregnancy would reduce harm, but low vaccine uptake is a concern. This scoping review aimed to understand the reasons for, and approaches, to non-uptake of pertussis and influenza vaccinations in pregnant women in the UK and Ireland.

Methods

The inclusion criteria of this scoping review consist of pregnant women who avail of pertussis and influenza vaccines in the UK and Ireland. MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science and CINAHL databases were searched in June 2021 and updated in October 2022. Searches were limited to English language reports published after 2011. We followed the Joanna Briggs Institute guidance on scoping reviews. Data were extracted and charted.

Results

Five themes emerged from the literature. Acceptability, as well as organisational and awareness issues, were overarching themes regarding reasons for and approaches to non-uptake of the vaccines respectively. Other themes included healthcare professional factors, information interpretation and pregnancy-related factors.

Conclusions

Women need clear, comprehensible information, ideally provided by their healthcare professionals, in a way that is meaningful and addresses their circumstances and risk perceptions. This research will serve as a base for future work that aims behaviour science interventions at the wider pregnant population as well as the target groups that have been identified in this review.