bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on Interactive Damping of Primary‐Secondary Coupled System
Authors: Zhu Lihua , Zhou Haoyi , Dai Jun
Published: February 2019

In order to study the interactive damping of a primary‐secondary coupled system, three damping strategies are presented. Based on it, three dynamic models were established: the 2‐DOF series model, spatial dynamic model, and 3‐DOF series model. According to the concept and calculation methods of random vibration, the displacement, velocity, and acceleration variances of each model were derived as response functions of the coupled system. Using MATLAB to analyze the response functions, we studied the manner in which the system response is affected by the frequency and mass ratios of the primary structure and secondary structures, the plane layout of the secondary structure, and the quality, frequency, and damping of the connection structure, respectively. Thereafter, combined with the multiobjective optimization method, optimal parameters were selected to minimize the coupled system response in order to achieve interactive damping.
Thoracic Radicular Pain Caused by Extravertebral Gas and Fluid Collections Associated with Osteoporotic Vertebral Fracture Containing a Vacuum Cleft
Authors: Kida Kazunobu , Tani Toshikazu , Kawazoe Tateo , Toda Michio
Published: February 2019

The present study documents a phenomenon, which has received little attention despite its potential clinical importance. An 87-year-old woman presented with barely reported extravertebral gas and fluid collections probably originating from the contents of the adjacent cleft within the T10 collapsed osteoporotic vertebra. Her chief complaint was intractable pain radiating over the left thorax suggestive of intercostal neuralgia. The pain intensified when sitting up from a lateral decubitus position, correlating with a posture-related radiologic change of the intravertebral cleft, which appeared with a decubitus position and disappeared with a sitting position. Because these extravertebral collections were located where the 10th thoracic nerve root just exits the intervertebral foramina, her chest pain of a posture-dependent nature most likely resulted from nerve root compression by extravertebral gas and fluid forced out of the vertebral cleft. Posterior spinal fusion with pedicle screw instrumentation resulted in a complete resolution of the chest pain with disappearance of the extravertebral gas and fluid accumulations. An awareness of the possibility that the intravertebral cleft could communicate with the extravertebral space close to the nerve root will help avoid neurologic complications caused by bone cement leakage during vertebroplasty.
Long-Term Effects of Myoinositol on Behavioural Seizures and Biochemical Changes Evoked by Kainic Acid Induced Epileptogenesis
Authors: Tsverava Lia , Kandashvili Manana , Margvelani Giorgi , Lortkipanidze Tamar , Gamkrelidze Georgi , Lepsveridze Eka , Kokaia Merab , Solomonia Revaz
Published: February 2019

Epilepsy is one of the most devastating neurological diseases and despite significant efforts there is no cure available. Occurrence of spontaneous seizures in epilepsy is preceded by numerous functional and structural pathophysiological reorganizations in the brain—a process called epileptogenesis. Treatment strategies targeting this process may be efficient for preventing spontaneous recurrent seizures (SRS) in epilepsy, or for modification of disease progression. We have previously shown that (i) myoinositol (MI) pretreatment significantly decreases severity of acute seizures (status epilepticus: SE) induced by kainic acid (KA) in experimental animals and (ii) that daily post-SE administration of MI for 4 weeks prevents certain biochemical changes triggered by SE. However it was not established whether such MI treatment also exerts long-term effects on the frequency of SRS. In the present study we have shown that, in KA-induced post-SE epilepsy model in rats, MI treatment for 28 days reduces frequency and duration of behavioural SRS not only during the treatment, but also after its termination for the following 4 weeks. Moreover, MI has significant effects on molecular changes in the hippocampus, including mi-RNA expression spectrum, as well as mRNA levels of sodium-MI transporter and LRRC8A subunit of the volume regulated anionic channel. Taken together, these data suggest that molecular changes induced by MI treatment may counteract epileptogenesis. Thus, here we provide data indicating antiepileptogenic properties of MI, which further supports the idea of developing new antiepileptogenic and disease modifying drug that targets MI system.
Evaluation of the Immunogenicity of a Vascular Graft Covered with Collagen Derived from the European Carp (Cyprinus carpio) and Bovine Collagen
Authors: Lambert Lukas , Novakova Michaela , Lukac Peter , Cechova Dana , Sukenikova Lenka , Hrdy Jiri , Mlcek Mikulas , Chlup Hynek , Suchy Tomas , Grus Tomas
Published: February 2019

Aim. To assess the systemic and local immunological response to subcutaneous implants of a vascular graft covered with collagen extracted from the European carp (freshwater fish) or with collagen of bovine origin. Methods. Pieces of a vascular graft covered by pure bovine (Bos taurus, BOV, n=14) or carp (Cyprinus carpio, CYP, n=14) collagen 5 mm in size were implanted subcutaneously in the dorsum of a Balb/cOla mice. A sham operation group of 12 animals served as the control. At 7 and 14 days after the operation, one-half of each group was terminated and blood for serum, spleen, and implant with surrounding tissue were collected. Mean cytokine (TNF-α, IL-10, IL-4, IL-1β, IL-13, and IFN-γ) levels in serum were determined using ELISA. Spleen cell cultures were used for in vitro testing of lymphocyte proliferation and cytokine secretion. Local expressions of IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, TGF-β, CCL-2, and CCL-3 were determined using PCR. Results. We found no significant difference among control, BOV, and CYP groups in mean cytokine serum levels at seven days. At day 14, the BOV group had higher levels of TNF-α (P=.018) and both the BOV and CYP groups had lower levels of IL-4 (P=.011 and P=.047, respectively) compared with the control group. Both tested implants showed only a minimal effect on the production of selected cytokines. Cell proliferation in the CYP group stimulated by CYP gel at 14 days was significantly lower than by BOV gel in BOV group (P=.0031) or by CYP gel in the control group (P=.041). The difference between the groups in the local RNA expression of all the tested mediators both at 7 and at 14 days was not significant apart from a lower level of TNF-α in the BOV group compared to CYP at 14 days (P=.013). Conclusions. Implants covered with carp collagen induce an immunological response that is comparable to that of bovine collagen covered implants in a mouse model.
Introducing of the First DCD Kidney Transplantation Program in Poland
Authors: Stadnik Honorata , Małkiewicz Tomasz , Stronka Michał , Cichańska Lucyna , Kawalec Łukasz , Puślecki Mateusz , Ligowski Marcin , Zieliński Marcin , Karczewski Marek
Published: February 2019

In many countries, including Poland, the main problem with transplantation is the insufficiency of organ donors in relation to the demand for organs. Hence, the common aim globally is to increase the pool of donors. The prolonged survival of patients after transplantation, with respect to the survival time of patients on dialysis, makes the search much more intense. After the recourse of expanded criteria donors (ECD), the next step was obtaining kidneys from donors after irreversible cardiac death (DCD). Therefore, based on Dutch, British, and Spanish experience, it can be hypothesized that the introduction of DCD procedures in countries that have not launched these programs and the improvement of DCD procedures may shorten the waiting time for organ transplantation globally. The legal basis for the procurement of organs after irreversible cardiac arrest came into existence in Poland in 2010. Previously, such organ procurements were not in practice. Since 1984, when Poland published irreversible cardiac arrest as a criterion of brain death, it became the only way to determine death prior to the procurement of organs. The aim of this report was to evaluate the results of the first 19 transplantation cases involving harvested kidneys from donors after cardiac arrest, which was irreversible and clinically confirmed, without any doubt as per the ethical protocol of DCD. Understanding, support, and public perception are essential for this program’s initiation and maintenance.
The Role of NK Cells in the Control of Viral Infection in HTLV-1 Carriers
Authors: Amorim Camila F. , Carvalho Natália B. , Neto José Abraão , Santos Silvane B. , Grassi Maria Fernanda Rios , Carvalho Lucas P. , Carvalho Edgar M.
Published: February 2019

The cytotoxic activities of CD8+ T cells have been considered the main defense mechanism against the human T lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1). As with CD8+ T cells, NK cells can perform cytotoxic degranulation with production of cytotoxic mediators, such as perforins and granzymes. NK cells are also responsible for antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) against infected cells, but few studies have evaluated the role of NK cells in HTLV-1 infection. The aim of this study was to characterize the subsets and measure the frequency of NK cells in HTLV-1 carriers (HC) and in patients with HTLV-1-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP) and correlate these findings with the proviral load and development of HAM/TSP. The diagnosis of HTLV-1 infection was performed with a detection antibody against viral antigens by ELISA and confirmed by Western blot. Phenotypic characterization of NK cells was performed by flow cytometry. The frequencies of CD56+, CD56+CD3-, CD56+CD16+, and CD56dim cells were decreased in HAM/TSP patients. The frequency of CD56+CD3- cells was inversely correlated with proviral load in HC but not in HAM/TSP patients. HAM/TSP patients showed decreased frequency of CD56+ and CD56dim cells expressing CD16, the main receptor for ADCC. These data indicate that NK cells may play a key role in the control of HTLV-1 infection by preventing the progression of HC to HAM/TSP.
New Genotypes and Phenotypes in Patients with 3 Subtypes of Waardenburg Syndrome Identified by Diagnostic Next-Generation Sequencing
Authors: Li Wu , Mei Lingyun , Chen Hongsheng , Cai Xinzhang , Liu Yalan , Men Meichao , Liu Xue Zhong , Yan Denise , Ling Jie , Feng Yong
Published: February 2019

Background. Waardenburg syndrome (WS) is one of the most common forms of syndromic deafness with heterogeneity of loci and alleles and variable expressivity of clinical features.Methods. The technology of single-nucleotide variants (SNV) and copy number variation (CNV) detection was developed to investigate the genotype spectrum of WS in a Chinese population.Results. Ninety WS patients and 24 additional family members were recruited for the study. Fourteen mutations had not been previously reported, including c.808C>G, c.117C>A, c.152T>G, c.803G>T, c.793-3T >G, and c.801delT onPAX3; c.642_650delAAG onMITF; c.122G>T and c.127C>T onSOX10; c.230C>G and c.365C>T onSNAI2; and c.481A>G, c.1018C>G, and c.1015C>T onEDNRB. Three CNVs were de novo and first reported in our study. FiveEDNRBvariants were associated with WS type 1 in the heterozygous state for the first time, with a detection rate of 22.2%. Freckles occur only in WS type 2. Yellow hair, amblyopia, congenital ptosis, narrow palpebral fissures, and pigmentation spots are rare and unique symptoms in WS patients from China.Conclusions.EDNRBshould be considered as another prevalent pathogenic gene in WS type 1. Our study expanded the genotype and phenotype spectrum of WS, and diagnostic next-generation sequencing is promising for WS.
Intranasal Application of Budesonide Attenuates Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Acute Lung Injury by Suppressing Nucleotide-Binding Oligomerization Domain-Like Receptor Family, Pyrin Domain-Containing 3 Inflammasome Activation in Mice
Authors: Dong Liang , Zhu Yu-Hang , Liu De-Xing , Li Juan , Zhao Peng-Cheng , Zhong Yuan-Ping , Chen Yong-Qin , Xu Wei , Zhu Zhao-Qiong
Published: February 2019

Aim. To investigate the protective effects of budesonide against lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) induced acute lung injury (ALI) in a murine model and its underlying mechanism.Methods. Adult male C57BL/6 mice were divided into three groups: control, ALI, and ALI + budesonide groups. LPS (5 mg/kg) was intratracheally injected to induce ALI in mice. Budesonide (0.5 mg/kg) was intranasally given 1 h before LPS administration in the ALI + budesonide group. Twelve hours after LPS administration, all mice were sacrificed. Hematoxylin-eosin staining and pathological scores were used to evaluate pathological injury. Bronchoalveolar lavage was performed. The numbers of total cells, neutrophils, and macrophages in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were counted. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was employed to detect the proinflammatory cytokines in BALF and serum, including tumor necrosis factor- (TNF-)α, monocyte chemoattractant protein- (MCP-) 1, and interleukin- (IL-) 1β. The expression of the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor family, pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome was detected by western blotting. A lethal dose of LPS (40 mg/kg, intraperitoneally) was injected to evaluate the effects of budesonide on survival rates.Results. Budesonide pretreatment dramatically attenuated pathological injury and reduced pathological scores in mice with ALI. Budesonide pretreatment obviously reduced the numbers of total cells, neutrophils, and macrophages in the BALF of mice with ALI. Additionally, budesonide dramatically reduced TNF-αand MCP-1 expression in the BALF and serum of mice with ALI. Budesonide significantly suppressed NLRP3 and pro-caspase-1 expression in the lung and reduced IL-1βcontent in the BALF, indicating that budesonide inhibited the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome. Furthermore, we found that budesonide improved the survival rates of mice with ALI receiving a lethal dose of LPS.Conclusion. Suppression of NLRP3 inflammasome activation in mice via budesonide attenuated lung injury induced by LPS in mice with ALI.
Same-Day Regimen as an Alternative to Split Preparation for Colonoscopy: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis
Authors: Bucci Cristina , Zingone Fabiana , Schettino Pietro , Marmo Clelia , Marmo Riccardo
Published: February 2019

Background. Split bowel preparation is the best regimen for colonoscopy. However, the same-day regimen can represent a valid alternative, but its use is limited by concerns about its cleansing ability, and to date, no convincing data support its use for routine colonoscopies. Aim. To evaluate the cleansing, compliance, and adverse event rates of the same-day compared to the split regimen. Results. A systematic literature search and meta-analysis was performed. Ten studies were included for a total of 1807 patients (880 in the same-day group and 927 in the split group). Overall, 85.3% patients in the same-day group vs. 86.3% in the split group had an adequate cleansing. Compliance was high for both, although patients were more compliant with the split than with the same-day prep (89.7% for same-day vs. 96.6% for split regimen). Sleep disturbance was more frequent in the split group, while nausea and vomit were more frequent in the same-day group. In the subgroup analysis, polyethylene glycol obtained a better cleansing rate when given as a split dose, with similar compliance and adverse events rates with both regimens. Conclusion. Split and same-day regimens are both useful in bowel cleaning before colonoscopy with a different pattern of adverse events and better compliance for split preparations. Endoscopists can consider the same-day preparation as a valid alternative, especially when the split preparation does not fit the patients’ needs.
Different Faces for Different Places: Heterogeneity of Neutrophil Phenotype and Function
Authors: Yang Peiqing , Li Yanhong , Xie Yan , Liu Yi
Published: February 2019

As the most abundant leukocytes in the circulation, neutrophils are committed to innate and adaptive immune effector function to protect the human body. They are capable of killing intruding microbes through various ways including phagocytosis, release of granules, and formation of extracellular traps. Recent research has revealed that neutrophils are heterogeneous in phenotype and function and can display outstanding plasticity in both homeostatic and disease states. The great flexibility and elasticity arm neutrophils with important regulatory and controlling functions in various disease states such as autoimmunity and inflammation as well as cancer. Hence, this review will focus on recent literature describing neutrophils’ variable and diverse phenotypes and functions in different contexts.
A Bivalent RecombinantMycobacterium bovisBCG Expressing the S1 Subunit of the Pertussis Toxin Induces a Polyfunctional CD4+T Cell Immune Response
Authors: Kanno Alex I. , Goulart Cibelly , Leite Luciana C. C. , Pagliarone Ana C. , Nascimento Ivan P.
Published: February 2019

Background. A recombinant BCG strain expressing the genetically detoxified S1 subunit of pertussis toxin 9K/129G (rBCG-S1PT), previously constructed by our research group, demonstrated the ability to develop high protection in mouse models of pertussis challenge which correlated with the induction of a Th1 immune response pattern. The Th1 immune response induced by rBCG-S1PT treatment was also confirmed in the murine orthotopic bladder cancer model, in which the intravesical instillation of rBCG-S1PT resulted in an improved antitumor effect. Based on these observations, we hypothesize that the reengineering of the S1PT expression in BCG could increase the efficiency of the protective Th1 immune response in order to develop a new alternative of immunotherapy in bladder cancer treatment.Objectives. To construct rBCG strains expressing S1PT from extrachromosomal (rBCG-S1PT) and integrative vectors (rBCG-Sli), or their combination, generating the bivalent strain (rBCG-S1+S1i), and to evaluate the respective immunogenicity of rBCG strains in mice.Methods. Mycobacterial plasmids were constructed by cloning thes1ptgene under integrative and extrachromosomal vectors and used to transform BCG, individually or in combination. Antigen expression and localization were confirmed by Western blot. Mice were immunized with wild-type BCG or the rBCG strains, and cytokines quantification and flow cytometry analysis were performed in splenocytes culture stimulated with mycobacterial-specific proteins.Findings. S1PT expression was confirmed in all rBCG strains. The extrachromosomal vector directs S1PT to the cell wall-associated fraction, while the integrative vector directs its expression mainly to the intracellular fraction. Higher levels of IFN-γwere observed in the splenocytes culture from the group immunized with rBCG-S1i in comparison to BCG or rBCG-S1PT. rBCG-S1+S1i showed higher levels of CD4+IFN-γ+and double-positive CD4+IFN-γ+TNF-α+T cells.Conclusions. rBCG-S1+S1i was able to express the two forms of S1PT and elicited higher induction of polyfunctional CD4+T cells, indicating enhanced immunogenicity and suggesting its use as immunotherapy for bladder cancer.
Immunoregulatory Effects of Neuropeptides on Endothelial Cells: Relevance to Dermatological Disorders
Authors: Mehta Devina , Granstein Richard D.
Published: February 2019

Many skin diseases, including psoriasis and atopic dermatitis, have a neurogenic component. In this regard, bidirectional interactions between components of the nervous system and multiple target cells in the skin and elsewhere have been receiving increasing attention. Neuropeptides released by sensory nerves that innervate the skin can directly modulate functions of keratinocytes, Langerhans cells, dermal dendritic cells, mast cells, dermal microvascular endothelial cells and infiltrating immune cells. As a result, neuropeptides and neuropeptide receptors participate in a complex, interdependent network of mediators that modulate the skin immune system, skin inflammation, and wound healing. In this review, we will focus on recent studies demonstrating the roles of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone, calcitonin gene-related peptide, substance P, somatostatin, vasoactive intestinal peptide, pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide, and nerve growth factor in modulating inflammation and immunity in the skin through their effects on dermal microvascular endothelial cells.
Comparison of Subpectoral versus Prepectoral Immediate Implant Reconstruction after Skin- and Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy in Breast Cancer Patients: A Retrospective Hospital-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Thangarajah Fabinshy , Treeter Timo , Krug Barbara , Hellmich Martin , Eichler Christian , Hanstein Bettina , Mallmann Peter , Malter Wolfram
Published: February 2019

Introduction: Implant-based immediate breast reconstruction (IBR) is a common surgical procedure in breast cancer patients. Comparative analysis concerning the placement of implants is still lacking. Hence, we aimed to analyze pre- versus subpectoral IBR in breast cancer patients. Patients: A single-center experience with implant-based IBR following skin/nipple-sparing mastectomy was evaluated. Patient demographics, incidence of major complications, and quality of life assessed with BREAST-Q were compared between the pre- and subpectoral cohort. Results: A total of 63 patients were included in this analysis of whom 29 underwent subpectoral and 34 underwent prepectoral IBR. Median duration of surgery was prolonged in the subpectoral versus the prepectoral group (104 ± 28 vs. 80 ± 91 min; p < 0.05). The mean number of major complications was significantly increased in the subpectoral group (1.41 ± 1.76 vs. 0.47 ± 0.75 per patient; p < 0.05). Detailed analysis showed a significantly increased incidence of implant dislocation (p < 0.05) and a trend concerning capsular contracture (p = 0.086, not significant) and necrosis (p = 0.092, not significant) in the subpectoral group. Quality of life was equal in both groups. Conclusion: The mean number of major complications in the subpectoral group should be considered when IBR is indicated. Prepectoral IBR seems to be a feasible alternative surgical treatment option with less major complications in selected patients.
Fibrosing Alopecia in a Pattern Distribution (FAPD) in 16 African-Descent and Hispanic Female Patients: A Challenging Diagnosis
Authors: Teixeira Marcelo de Souza , Gavazzoni Dias Maria Fernanda Reis , Trüeb Ralph M. , Rochael Mayra Carrijo , Vilar Enoi Aparecida Guedes
Published: February 2019

Background: Fibrosing alopecia in a pattern distribution (FAPD) has only been described in Caucasian patients, and it is not clear whether it can develop in dark-skin ethnicities. Materials and Methods: Sixteen Brazilian female patients, 12 of African descent and 4 Hispanic, with progressive scarring alopecia in a pattern distribution were analyzed. Results: Dermatoscopic features showed perifollicular erythema and scaling (14/16), hair fiber diameter diversity (16/16), loss of follicular ostia (16/16), and follicular keratosis (3/16). Late stages showed a honeycomb pigmented network (12/16), a hyperpigmented perifollicular halo (12/16), and small white patches (12/16). Histopathological features showed lichenoid perifollicular infiltrate (14/16), follicular miniaturization (16/16), concentric fibrosis (16/16), perifollicular lymphocytic infiltrate (16/16), and vellus hair involvement (10/16). Premature desquamation of the inner root sheath was found in 11 patients. Conclusions: The concomitant findings of cicatricial pattern hair loss (with or without the recess of the front hair line), hair fiber diversity, perifollicular erythema and scaling, a whitish perifollicular halo, and histological findings of androgenetic alopecia, with vacuolar interface alteration of the upper portion of the follicular epithelium, are the main key features to suggest the diagnosis of FAPD. FAPD is a possible diagnosis in patients of color with cicatricial pattern hair loss. Clinical, dermatoscopic, and histopathological examination allow a proper final differential diagnosis.
Chromosomal Rearrangements during Turtle Evolution Altered the Synteny of Genes Involved in Vertebrate Sex Determination
Authors: Lee LingSze , Montiel Eugenia E. , Navarro-Domínguez Beatriz M. , Valenzuela Nicole
Published: February 2019

Sex-determining mechanisms (SDMs) set an individual's sexual fate by its genotype (genotypic sex determination, GSD) or environmental factors like temperature (temperature- dependent sex determination, TSD), as in turtles where the GSD “trigger” remains unknown. SDMs co-evolve with turtle chromosome number, perhaps because fusions/fissions alter the relative position/regulation of sexual development genes. Here, we map 10 such genes via FISH onto metaphase chromosomes in 6 TSD and 6 GSD turtles for the first time. Results uncovered intrachromosomal rearrangements involving 3 genes across SDMs (Dax1, Fhl2, and Fgf9) and a chromosomal fusion linking 2 genes (Sf1 and Rspo1) in 1 chromosome in a TSD turtle (Pelomedusa subrufa) that locate to 2 chromosomes in all others. Notably, Sf1 and its repressor Foxl2 map to Apalone spinifera's ZW chromosomes but to a macro- (Foxl2) and a microautosome (Sf1) in other turtles potentially inducing SDM evolution. However, our phylogenetically informed analysis refutes Foxl2 (but not Sf1) as Apalone's master sex-determining gene. The absence of common TSD-specific or GSD-specific rearrangements underscores the independent evolutionary trajectories of turtle SDMs. Further comparative analyses using more genes from the sexual development network are warranted to inform genome evolution and its contribution to enigmatic turnovers of vertebrate sex determination.
Cardiac Lymphatic Dysfunction Causes Drug-Eluting Stent–Induced Coronary Hyperconstricting Responses in Pigs In Vivo
Authors: Amamizu Hirokazu , Matsumoto Yasuharu , Morosawa Susumu , Ohyama Kazuma , Uzuka Hironori , Hirano Michinori , Nishimiya Kensuke , Gokon Yusuke , Watanabe-Asaka Tomomi , Hayashi Moyuru , Miyata Satoshi , Kamei Takashi , Kawai Yoshiko , Shimokawa Hiroaki
Published: February 2019

Objective—

We have previously demonstrated that coronary adventitial inflammation plays important roles in the pathogenesis of coronary vasomotion abnormalities, including drug-eluting stent (DES)–induced coronary hyperconstricting responses. Importantly, the adventitia also harbors lymphatic vessels, which may prevent inflammation by transporting extravasated fluid and inflammatory cells. We thus aimed to examine the roles of coronary adventitial lymphatic vessels in the pathogenesis of DES-induced coronary hyperconstricting responses in a porcine model in vivo.

Approach and Results—

We performed 2 experimental studies. In protocol 1, 15 pigs were divided into 3 groups with or without DES and with bare metal stent. Nonstented sites 20 mm apart from stent implantation also were examined. In the protocol 2, 12 pigs were divided into 2 groups with or without lymphatic vessels ligation followed by DES implantation at 2 weeks later (n=6 each). We performed coronary angiography 4 weeks after DES implantation, followed by immunohistological analysis. In protocol 1, the number and the caliber of lymphatic vessels were greater at only the DES edges after 4 more weeks. In protocol 2, coronary hyperconstricting responses were further enhanced in the lymphatic vessels ligation group associated with adventitial inflammation, Rho-kinase activation, and less adventitial lymphatic vessels formation. Importantly, there were significant correlations among these inflammation-related changes and enhanced coronary vasoconstricting responses.

Conclusions—

These results provide evidence that cardiac lymphatic vessel dysfunction plays important roles in the pathogenesis of coronary vasoconstrictive responses in pigs in vivo.
Abstract 472: Large-Scale Single-Cell RNA-Seq Identifies Heterogeneous Populations of Human Primary and Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Endothelial Cells
Authors: Paik David T , Tian Lei , Lee Jaecheol , Sayed Nazish , Mishra Ridhima , Wu Joseph C
Published: February 2019

Rationale:
Human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived endothelial cells (iPSC-ECs) have risen as a useful tool in cardiovascular research, offering a wide gamut of translational and clinical applications. However, inefficiency of the currently available iPSC-EC differentiation protocol and underlying heterogeneity of derived iPSC-ECs remain as major limitations of iPSC-EC technology.

Objective:
Here we performed droplet-based single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) of the human iPSCs following iPSC-EC differentiation and of primary endothelial cells isolated from human coronary arteries. Droplet-based scRNA-seq enables analysis of thousands of cells in parallel, allowing comprehensive analysis of transcriptional heterogeneity.

Methods and Results:
Bona fide iPSC-EC cluster was identified by scRNA-seq, which expressed high levels of endothelial-specific genes. iPSC-ECs sorted by CD144 antibody-conjugated magnetic sorting exhibited standard endothelial morphology and function including tube formation, response to inflammatory signals, and production of nitric oxide. Non-endothelial cell populations resulting from the differentiation protocol were identified, which included immature and atrial-like cardiomyocytes, hepatic-like cells, and vascular smooth muscle cells. Furthermore, scRNA-seq analysis of purified iPSC-ECs revealed transcriptional heterogeneity with four major subpopulations, marked by robust enrichment of CLDN5, APLNR, GJA5, and ESM1 genes respectively. These findings were then cross-analyzed with the primary EC data.

Conclusions:
Massively parallel scRNA-seq allowed analysis of thousands of human iPSCs subjected to EC differentiation. Results showed inefficiency of the differentiation technique, which can be improved with further studies based on identification of molecular signatures that inhibit expansion of non-endothelial cell types. Subtypes of bona fide human iPSC-ECs were also identified, allowing us to sort for iPSC-ECs with specific biological function and identity. Cross-analysis with scRNA-seq data of human coronary artery ECs reveals transcriptional similarities and dissimilarities of iPSC-ECs to the primary ECs that will be addressed in subsequent studies.
Burmese (Myanmar) amber checklist and bibliography 2018

Authors: ROSS ANDREW J.
Published: February 2019

A list of all known taxa described or recorded from Burmese amber from the published literature up to the end of 2018 is given, along with a comprehensive bibliography. The history of the study of inclusions is summarised, and demonstrates that the number of species has risen exponentially over the past two decades. The first three species were named in 1916 and by the end of 1920 a total of 42 species had been named by T.D.A. Cockerell. Only three more species were named by 1999 though by the end of 2018 the total had risen to an incredible 1,192 species, of which over half were named in the past three years. Some 320 species were named in 2018, the highest number described from one type of amber in any one year in the entire history of amber studies.
Neosyringophilopsis, a new genus of the subfamily Syringophilinae (Acari: Syringophilidae)
Authors: SKORACKI MACIEJ , SIKORA BOÚENA
Published: February 2019

A new genus, Neosyringophilopsis is described. This new genus is closely related to Syringophilopsis Kethley and is distinguished by the presence of the following characters: the propodosomal shield is divided longitudinally, setae lG of legs IV are absent, epimeres I are not fused to epimeres II. This new genus includes five recognized species: N. troglodytis (Fritsch) comb. nov., N. aegithali (Bochkov et al.) comb. nov., N. phylloscopi (Bochkov et al.) comb. nov., N. garrulaxi (Bochkov et al.) comb. nov., N. locustellus (Skoracki) comb. nov., and one new species N. acanthizus sp. nov.
A cladistic analysis of the genera of the tribe Entimini (Coleoptera, Curculionidae), with description of a new genus and species from the Amazonian Region
Authors: VANIN SERGIO ANTONIO , GAIGER FABIO
Published: February 2019

A new genus and species of the weevil tribe Entimini, Nasocomptus obyberaba gen. nov. and sp. nov., are described from the southwestern Amazonian Region (type locality: Brazil, Rondonia, Ouro Preto do Oeste). A cladistic analysis was carried out among representative species of most of the Neotropical genera, including Nasocomptus gen. nov., to provide a phylogenetic hypothesis for the tribe. A single most parsimonious cladogram was obtained: (Entimus (Nasocomptus ((Polyteles, Phaedropus) (Rhigus, Cydianerus)))). An identification key for the genera of Neotropical Entimini (except Trachyus) is furnished. The new genus is easily distinguished by two outstanding autapomorphies: anterior angle of rostrum prominent and spiked in males, and styli of female coxites ventral and pre-apical. Color photographs of the habitus of the new species and outline illustrations of structures used in the cladistic analysis are presented.
A new Troglosiro species (Opiliones, Cyphophthalmi, Troglosironidae) from New Caledonia
Authors: SHARMA PRASHANT , GIRIBET GONZALO
Published: February 2019

A new species of Cyphophthalmi belonging to the New Caledonian endemic genus Troglosiro Juberthie, 1979 is described and illustrated using SEM, including the first description of a troglosironid ovipositor. T. longifossa sp. nov., known only from its type locality in Port Boisé, and found at low elevation near sea level, constitutes the seventh species of Troglosiro to be described to date. The new species has a unique disposition of the four ventral opisthosomal gland pores in the anterior portion of a long depression of the sternal segments 3 to 7. Information on other specimens recently collected in New Caledonia indicates that the number of described species in the island is a gross underestimate of the real diversity of New Caledonian Cyphophthalmi, both in number of species and morphology.
Ellimenistes humeralis Marshall, 1947 and its allies (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Entiminae: Embrithini)
Authors: BOROVEC ROMAN , NAKLÁDAL OTO
Published: February 2019

The Ellimenistes humeralis Marshall, 1947 species group is defined. Ellimenistes humeralis is redescribed, three new species belonging to this species group are described, illustrated and keyed: E. janaki Borovec & Nakládal, sp. nov., E. marshalli Borovec & Nakládal, sp. nov. and E. raucus Borovec & Nakládal, sp. nov., all from South Africa, Eastern Cape. A lectotype of Ellimenistes humeralis Marshall, 1947 is designated. The diagnosis of the genus Ellimenistes is completed with illustrations of the female genitalia provided for the first time.
Provisional checklist of the Tettigonioidea (Insecta: Orthoptera) from São Tomé & Príncipe with taxonomic remarks, bioacoustical data and the description of new taxa
Authors: HELLER KLAUS-GERHARD
Published: February 2019

The state São Tomé and Príncipe consists of two separated oceanic archipelagos situated in the Gulf of Guinea (West Central Africa). Except of a first survey on São Tomé in the 19th century, its Orthoptera fauna has never been studied systematically. Here a list of all tettigonioid species which have been recorded from the islands is presented together with information about the bioacoustics and biology of some species. Each archipelago harbours nine species, but only two species are found in both parts of the country. Two species and one subgenus are described as new: Adapantus (Adapantus) excavatus sp. nov., Brachyamytta bombomensis sp. nov., Neoadapantus subg. nov. The following nomenclatural changes had to be done: Corycoides greeffi (Krauss, 1890) becomes new synonym of Corycoides paradoxus (Bolivar, 1890), Xiphidion guineensis Redtenbacher, 1891, Xiphidion africanum Redtenbacher, 1891 and Conocephalus inequalis Uvarov, 1928 become new synonyms of Conocephalus iris Serville, 1838. The species list of Conocephalus, subgenus Conocephalus, is revised. Additionally the known tettigonioids of Annobón (Equatorial Guinea) are listed (4 species).
A new species of Leptobrachella (Anura: Megophryidae) from southern Guangxi, China
Authors: CHEN WEICAI , LIAO XIAOWEN , ZHOU SHICHU , MO YUNMING
Published: February 2019

This study describes a new member of the genus Leptobrachella, Leptobrachella shangsiensis sp. nov., based on morphological, acoustic and molecular analyses from southern Guangxi, China. L. shangsiensis sp. nov. differs from its congeners by a combination of the following characters: (1) SVL 24.9–29.4 mm in 11 males and 30.8–35.9 mm in 5 females, (2) black supratympanic fold with dark reddish rim, (3) ventrolateral glands distinct, forming a broken line, (4) ventral surface yellowish creamy-white with marble texture, (5) iris copper in the upper and silver in the lower fifth and (6) toe webbing basal and narrow lateral fringes. The male advertisement call of L. shangsiensis sp. nov. consists of one note per call, lacking an introductory note, with a mean dominant frequency of 5.5–6.5 kHz at the ambient temperature of 21.5ºC. Uncorrected sequence divergences between L. shangsiensis sp. nov. and all homologous DNA sequences available for the 16S rRNA gene were found to be > 5.9%. L. shangsiensis sp. nov. occurs in an evergreen forest in Shiwandashan National Nature Reserve located at an elevation of 450–550 m.
A new species of hydrothermal vent stalked barnacle Vulcanolepas (Scalpelliforms: Eolepadidae) from the North Fiji Basin, Southwestern Pacific Ocean
Authors: CHAN BENNY K.K. , JU SE-JONG , KIM SE-JOO
Published: February 2019

A new species of eolepadid stalked barnacle, Vulcanolepas fijiensis sp. nov., was collected from a hydrothermal vent in the North Fiji Basin, Southwestern Pacific Ocean, at a depth of 1988 m. Based on morphological characteristics, this new species was distinguished from its relatives, V. osheai Buckeridge, 2000, V. parensis Southward, 2005, V. scotiaensis Buckeridge, Linse & Jackson, 2013, and V. buckeridgei Chan & Chang, 2018. Based on morphological characteristics, Vulcanolepas species are divided mainly into two groups by the size of the first mandibular tooth; the first group has a large mandibular first tooth (V. parensis, V. scotiaensis, and V. fijiensis sp. nov., the second a small mandibular first tooth (V. osheai and V. buckeridgei). The new species can be easily distinguished from V. parensis and V. scotiaensis by the length ratio of antenniform segments to robust segments of the rami of cirrus I. Vulcanolepas fijiensis sp. nov. also differs from V. parensis by the length ratio of the penis and cirrus VI (1/10 vs 1/4), and the extension the carinal apex to the tergum (extended vs not extended). Additionally, the sequence divergence of the cytochrome c oxidase 1 gene between V. fijiensis sp. nov. and the other neolepadid species (except V. parensis from its original locations) ranged from 4.2% to 14.0%. In a neighbor-joining tree, V. fijiensis sp. nov. formed an independent branch. These results infer that V. fijiensis sp. nov. is a new species, distinct from the other known neolepadids.
A Meteotsunami Climatology along the U.S. East Coast
Authors: Dusek Gregory , DiVeglio Christopher , Licate Louis , Heilman Lorraine , Kirk Katie , Paternostro Christopher , Miller Ashley
Published: February 2019

Meteotsunamis are atmospherically forced ocean waves with characteristics similar to seismic tsunamis. Several recent hazardous meteotsunamis resulted in damage and injuries along U.S. coastlines, such that the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is investigating ways to detect and forecast meteotsunamis to provide advance warning. Better understanding meteotsunami occurrence along U.S. coastlines is a necessary step to pursue these objectives. Here a meteotsunami climatology of the U.S. East Coast is presented. The climatology relies on a wavelet analysis of 6-min water-level observations from 125 NOAA tide gauges from 1996 to 2017. A total of 548 meteotsunamis, or about per year, were identified and assessed using this approach along the U.S. East Coast. There were a total of 30 instances when gauges observed waves of more than 0.6 m, which is assumed to be a potentially impactful event, and several cases with wave heights more than 1 m. Tide gauges along the open coast observed the most frequent events, including more than five events per year at Atlantic City, New Jersey; Duck, North Carolina; and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The largest waves were observed by gauges in estuaries that amplified the meteotsunami signal, such as those in Providence, Rhode Island, and Port Canaveral, Florida. Seasonal trends indicate that meteotsunamis occur most frequently in the winter and summer months, especially July. This work supports future meteotsunami detection and warning capabilities at NOAA, including the development of an impact catalog to aid National Weather Service forecasters.
Geometrical Properties of Hydrometeors during the Refreezing Process and Their Effects on Dual-Polarized Radar Signals
Authors: Nagumo Nobuhiro , Adachi Ahoro , Yamauchi Hiroshi
Published: February 2019

This paper describes an observational study for the geometrical properties of hydrometeors during a refreezing process initiated by a winter storm in the northern Kanto Plain, Japan, on 29 January 2016, in which a subfreezing layer developed below a melting layer. The observations by using dual-polarization radar showed consistency between high values of differential reflectivity ZDR signals in midair and ice-pellet reports at the surface. The high ZDR was indicative of the sideways-oriented particles with a small axis ratio. The low ZDR signals in midair corresponded with the reports of rain or rain/ice-pellet mixtures. Observations by using a two-dimensional video disdrometer (2DVD) near the ground showed different microphysics corresponding to high ZDR and low ZDR periods. The high ZDR periods of 2DVD observations indicated that the hydrometeors exhibited dual modes of fall velocities, namely, fast-falling and slow-falling modes. The fast-falling particles were found to be deformed ice pellets with long sideways orientations that contributed to the high ZDR. The slow-falling particles were also deformed ice pellets but with a variety of orientations. This feature was rather close to that of general dry conditions of ice particles in the atmosphere. Meanwhile, the low ZDR periods of 2DVD observations indicated that the hydrometeors exhibited a single mode of fall velocity close to the terminal velocity of raindrops, but with a more spherical shape compared to raindrops. Hence, it is suggested that the high ZDR signal occurs during freezing between the initial stage of spherical ice forming and completely freezing stage of ice pellets with a variety of orientations.
Predicting Severity of Coronary Artery Disease in Patients With Diabetes Using Endothelial Function Measured With Peripheral Arterial Tonometry: PROCEED Study
Authors: Venuraju Shreenidhi , Jeevarethinam Anand , Mehta Vishal Shahil , Ruano Sherezade , Dumo Alain , Nair Devaki , Rosenthal Miranda , Darko Daniel , Cohen Mark , Rakhit Roby , Lahiri Avijit
Published: February 2019

Endothelial dysfunction is common in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and is associated with atherosclerotic disease. This study aimed to determine prognostic factors for endothelial dysfunction and identify relationships between reactive hyperemia index (RHI) score, clinically relevant coronary artery disease (>50% stenosis), and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) in patients with T2DM. Endothelial function was assessed using peripheral arterial tonometry and correlated with patient characteristics and cardiovascular outcomes during a median follow-up of 22.8 months. Among 235 patients with a median duration of T2DM of 13 years, mean (standard deviation) RHI score was 2.00 (0.76). Serum low- and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels positively ( P = .004) and negatively ( P = .02) predicted RHI score, respectively. Median coronary artery calcium (CAC) score was 109 Agatston units, but no correlation between CAC and RHI scores was observed. The RHI score did not predict the number or severity of coronary plaques identified using computed tomography coronary angiography. Additionally, there was no association between RHI score and the risk of an MACE during follow-up. Overall, endothelial function was not predictive of CAC score, extent, and severity of coronary plaque or MACEs and did not demonstrate utility in cardiovascular risk stratifying patients with T2DM.
Evaluation of the efficacy of various reagents in improving microRNA extraction
Authors: Kikuchi Arizumi , Naruse Azumi , Sawamura Takahiro , Nonaka Kenichi
Published: February 2019

Background

MicroRNA has received considerable attention in the clinical context, and attempts are being made to use microRNA in clinical diagnosis. However, adequate quantities of microRNA required for analysis are challenging to isolate. We tested the effect of various reagents in improving microRNA extraction and compared their efficacy to that of a commercially available extraction kit (HighPure miRNA isolation kit, Roche).

Methods

We used the synthetic oligonucleotide miR-21 and formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue sections from colon cancer samples ( n = 10). We tested increasing volumes (100–600  μL) of 1,4-dioxane, 2-butanol, 2-propanol, acetonitrile, polyethylene glycol (PEG) 600, PEG 1000, PEG 1540, PEG 2000, tetraethylene glycol dimethyl ether (TDE), and tetrahydrofuran, instead of the binding enhancer solution provided in the kit. MiR-21 analysis was performed via stem-loop RT-qPCR using Universal ProbeLibrary probe (Roche).

Results

The optimum amount of each enhancement solution was 200–500  μL. We obtained ΔCp values of optimum additional volume for each solution from 1.04 to 2.50 and compared these with those obtained using the commercially available kit. PEG 1540 and 2000 produced superior reactivity with minimal addition. For FFPE tissue samples, addition of the enhancement solutions PEG 1540 and 2000 resulted in mean crossing point values of 18.15 ± 2.26 and 17.73 ± 3.26, respectively. We obtained a crossing point value of 20.56 ± 4.26 (mean ± SD) using the commercially available kit.

Conclusions

The tested enhancer reagents, which are relatively readily available and easy to use, can improve microRNA extraction efficacy of a commercially available kit.