bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vasoreactivity of the Murine External Jugular Vein and Carotid Artery
Authors: Cho Jae Min , Shiu Yan-Ting , Symons J. David , Lee Timmy
Published: June 2020

Introduction: Impaired venous reactivity has potential to contribute to clinically significant pathologies such as arteriovenous fistula (AVF) maturation failure. Vascular segments commonly used in murine preclinical models of AVF include the carotid artery and external jugular vein. Detailed descriptions of isometric procedures to evaluate function of murine external jugular vein ex vivo have not been previously published. Objective: To establish isometric procedures to measure naive murine external jugular vein reactivity ex vivo. Methods: Vasomotor responses of external jugular veins and ipsilateral common carotid arteries from C57BL/6 mice were evaluated using isometric tension procedures. Results: External jugular veins developed tension (p < 0.05) to potassium chloride and U-46619, but not to phenylephrine, whereas common carotid arteries responded to all 3 agents (p < 0.05). While maximal responses to acetylcholine (ACh) were similar between the venous and arterial segments, the dose required to achieve this value was lower (p < 0.05) in the artery versus vein. Nitric oxide synthase inhibition attenuated (p < 0.05) but did not abolish ACh-evoked vasorelaxation in both vascular segments, whereas cyclooxygenase blockade had no effect. Endothelium-independent vasorelaxation to sodium nitroprusside was similar in the artery and vein. Conclusion: Vasorelaxation and vasocontraction can be reliably assessed in the external jugular vein in C57BL/6 mice using isometric procedures.
3-Hydroxyisobutyryl-CoA Hydrolase Deficiency in a Turkish Child with a Novel HIBCH Gene Mutation and Literature Review
Authors: Kılıç Mustafa , Kurt-Çolak Fatma
Published: June 2020

3-hydroxyisobutyryl-CoA hydrolase (HIBCH) deficiency (OMIM 250620) is an autosomal recessive inborn error of valine catabolism characterized by severely delayed psychomotor development, progressive neurodegeneration, recurrent metabolic attacks with intercurrent illness, increased lactic acid, cerebral atrophy, and brain lesions in the basal ganglia. HIBCH gene defect is a very rare organic aciduria and also might cause secondary mitochondrial dysfunction. We report a 12-month-old severely affected female infant with a novel homozygous c.556C>G; p.R186G variant in the HIBCH gene presenting with axial hypotonia, severe developmental delay, and brain lesions in the basal ganglia and provide an overview of the literature. When suspected, newborn and selective screening with tandem mass analyses should include hydroxy-C4-carnitine to diagnose this disorder. However, in some cases, mostly in those with milder phenotype, diagnosis may be missed due to normal hydroxy-C4 carnitine levels.
Skull Base Chordomas and Chondrosarcomas
Authors: Kremenevski Natalia , Schlaffer Sven-Martin , Coras Roland , Kinfe Thomas Mehari , Graillon Thomas , Buchfelder Michael
Published: June 2020

Skull base chordomas account for less than 0.2% and chondrosarcomas for less than 0.15% of all intracranial tumors. Although their clinical and imaging presentations are similar, they derive from different origins. Chordomas arise from embryonic remnants of the primitive notochord and chondrosarcomas from primitive mesenchymal cells or from the embryonic rest of the cranial cartilaginous matrix. Both entities are characterized by infiltration and destruction of the surrounding bone and soft tissue and a high locoregional recurrence rate. Chondrosarcomas, when treated with similar complex strategies, display a much better prognosis than chordomas. The overall survival is approximately 65% for chordomas and 80% for chondrosarcomas at 5 years and 30 and 50%, respectively, at 10 years. Chordomas are divided into the following 3 histological types: classical (conventional), chondroid, and dedifferentiated. Chondrosarcomas have conventional, mesenchymal, clear cell, and dedifferentiated subgroups. Both tumor entities often present with nonspecific symptoms, and headaches are the most reported initial symptom. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging are required to determine the tumor localization and the extent of tumor growth. The treatment philosophy is to maximize tumor resection, minimize morbidity, and preserve function. Neurosurgical approaches commonly used for the resection of intracranial chordomas and chondrosarcomas are transsphenoidal, transbasal, cranio-orbitozygomatic, transzygomatic extended middle fossa, transcondylar, and transmaxillary approaches. Chordomas and chondrosarcomas are not sensitive to chemotherapy and there are no approved drugs for their treatment. The present treatment concept is a combination of surgical resection with a maximal excision and preserving patients’ quality of life by adjuvant radiotherapy for both chordomas and chondrosarcomas.
Sex Differences in the Control of Social Investigation and Anxiety by Vasopressin Cells of the Paraventricular Nucleus of the Hypothalamus
Authors: Rigney Nicole , Whylings Jack , de Vries Geert J. , Petrulis Aras
Published: June 2020

The neuropeptide arginine-vasopressin (AVP) has long been implicated in the regulation of social behavior and communication in diverse taxa, but the source of AVP release relevant for behavior has not been precisely determined. Potential sources include hypothalamic cell populations such as the paraventricular (PVN), supraoptic, and suprachiasmatic nuclei, as well as extrahypothalamic cell groups in the extended amygdala. To address if AVP-expressing cells in the PVN are important for mouse social communication, we deleted PVN AVP-expressing cells using viral-mediated delivery of Cre-dependent caspase-9 cell death construct into the PVN of AVP-Cre-positive mice (expressing Cre-recombinase under the control of the AVP promoter) or AVP-Cre-negative littermate controls, and assessed their levels of social investigation, social communication, anxiety, sex behavior, and aggressive behavior. We found that these lesions increased social investigation in females, but not in males. However, in males but not in females, these lesions increased non-social anxiety-related behaviors in the elevated-plus maze. These results therefore point at differential involvement of PVN AVP-expressing cells in the context of social and emotional behavior in the two sexes, which may contribute to sex differences in social communication and anxiety disorders.
Reevaluation of the South Asian
MYBPC3
Δ25bp
Intronic Deletion in Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Harper Andrew R. , Bowman Michael , Hayesmoore Jesse B.G. , Sage Helen , Salatino Silvia , Blair Edward , Campbell Carolyn , Currie Bethany , Goel Anuj , McGuire Karen , Ormondroyd Elizabeth , Sergeant Kate , Waring Adam , Woodley Jessica , Kramer Christopher M. , Neubauer Stefan , Farrall Martin , Watkins Hugh , Thomson Kate L. , Abraham Theodore , Anderson Lisa , Appelbaum Evan , Autore Camillo , Berry Colin , Biagini Elena , Bradlow William , Bucciarelli-Ducci Chiara , Chiribiri Amedeo , Choudhury Lubna , Crean Andrew , Dawson Dana , Desai Milind Y. , Elstein Eleanor , Flett Andrew , Friedrich Matthias , Heitner Stephen , Helms Adam , Ho Carolyn , Jacoby Daniel L. , Kim Han , Kim Bette , Larose Eric , Mahmod Masliza , Mahrholdt Heiko , Maron Martin , McCann Gerry , Michaels Michelle , Mohiddin Saidi , Nagueh Sherif , Newby David , Olivotto Iacopo , Owens Anjali , Pierre-Mongeon F. , Prasad Sanjay , Rimoldi Ornella , Salerno Michael , Schulz-Menger Jeanette , Sherrid Mark , Swoboda Peter , van Rossum Albert , Weinsaft Jonathan , White James , Williamson Eric
Published: June 2020

Background:

The common intronic deletion,
MYBPC3
Δ25
, detected in 4% to 8% of South Asian populations, is reported to be associated with cardiomyopathy, with ≈7-fold increased risk of disease in variant carriers. Here, we examine the contribution of
MYBPC3
Δ25
to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) in a large patient cohort.

Methods:

Sequence data from 2 HCM cohorts (n=5393) was analyzed to determine
MYBPC3
Δ25
frequency and co-occurrence of pathogenic variants in HCM genes. Case-control and haplotype analyses were performed to compare variant frequencies and assess disease association. Analyses were also undertaken to investigate the pathogenicity of a candidate variant
MYBPC3
c.1224-52G>A.

Results:

Our data suggest that the risk of HCM, previously attributed to
MYBPC3
Δ25
, can be explained by enrichment of a derived haplotype,
MYBPC3
Δ25/
−52
, whereby a small subset of individuals bear both
MYBPC3
Δ25
and a rare pathogenic variant,
MYBPC3
c.1224-52G>A. The intronic
MYBPC3
c.1224-52G>A variant, which is not routinely evaluated by gene panel or exome sequencing, was detected in ≈1% of our HCM cohort.

Conclusions:

The
MYBPC3
c.1224-52G>A variant explains the disease risk previously associated with
MYBPC3
Δ25
in the South Asian population and is one of the most frequent pathogenic variants in HCM in all populations; genotyping services should ensure coverage of this deep intronic mutation. Individuals carrying
MYBPC3
Δ25
alone are not at increased risk of HCM, and this variant should not be tested in isolation; this is important for the large majority of the 100 million individuals of South Asian ancestry who carry
MYBPC3
Δ25
and would previously have been declared at increased risk of HCM.
Phosphatidylethanol Levels, As a Marker of Alcohol Consumption, Are Associated With Risk of Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Johansson Kristina , Johansson Lars , Pennlert Johanna , Söderberg Stefan , Jansson Jan-Håkan , Lind Marcus M.
Published: June 2020

Background and Purpose:

Previous observational studies have shown a moderately increased risk of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) with high self-reported alcohol consumption. However, self-reported data tend to underestimate alcohol consumption. Phosphatidylethanol is a specific biomarker reflecting alcohol intake during the last month and correlates with the amount of alcohol consumed. The present study aimed to investigate the association between phosphatidylethanol levels and the risk of future ICH.

Methods:

This population-based nested case-referent study was conducted within the Northern Sweden Health and Disease Cohort. At baseline, all participants underwent a health examination, including a questionnaire with questions about alcohol consumption. A blood sample was collected and stored at −80°C, and phosphatidylethanol 16:0/18:1 levels were measured in packed erythrocytes. Cases (n=97) were diagnosed with a first-ever ICH between 1985 and 2007. Two referents (n=180) were matched to each case.

Results:

The mean age at baseline was 55 years, 39% of participants were women, and the mean time from blood sampling to ICH was 7.3 years. Only phosphatidylethanol and hypertension remained independently associated with ICH in a multivariable model. Participants with phosphatidylethanol >0.30 μmol/L had an increased risk of ICH compared with those with phosphatidylethanol <0.01 μmol/L (odds ratio, 4.64 [95% CI, 1.49–14.40]).

Conclusions:

High blood concentrations of phosphatidylethanol were associated with an increased risk of future ICH. This association was independent of hypertension and other risk factors for ICH. Our findings suggest that phosphatidylethanol, as a marker of alcohol consumption, may be used as a risk marker of future ICH.
The ecological preferences of Eurytemora affinis (Poppe, 1880) in the water bodies of Kazakhstan (Central Asia) and some notes about Eurytemora caspica Sukhikh & Alekseev, 2013
Authors: Krupa Elena G.
Published: June 2020

The purpose of this work is to analyse the influence of external factors on quantitative variables of Eurytemora affinis in water bodies of Kazakhstan. In 1997-2018, more than 150 water bodies located in various regions of the country were surveyed. The results obtained and analysis of the published literature showed that E. affinis primarily inhabits small shallow water bodies of Central and Eastern Kazakhstan. Populations from the North-Eastern Caspian Sea, originally identified as “Eurytemora affinis”, could be attributed to the recently described species Eurytemora caspica. In the water bodies examined, E. affinis was found at water temperatures from 12 to 25°C and at salinities from 0.2 to 7.1 g/dm3. The highest abundance of Eurytemora was recorded at 21-22°C and a salinity of 1.0-3.0 g/dm3. The optimum temperature range in the water bodies examined in an extreme continental climate is higher than the values given for E. affinis in water bodies in a moderately temperate climate. The optimal TDS [Total Dissolved Solids] value (1.0-3.0 g/dm3) has shifted towards more truly fresh waters than was stated for E. affinis collected from the sea (6.2-8.2), and this was confirmed in experiments (from 3.0-10.0 to 10.0-15.0). In the majority of the examined water bodies of Kazakhstan, males dominated the Eurytemora populations. Male dominance in E. affinis populations might be due to the adverse effect of elevated temperature on the lifespan of females, and it was also connected with the level of toxic pollution of the water bodies. It seems that E. affinis endures a relatively high content of heavy metals, but it does not inhabit water bodies with very high toxic pollution. The revealed features of E. affinis’ biology in Kazakhstan water bodies might be associated with both the heterogeneity of its populations from different parts of the range, and the existence of a complex of closely related species that at present is collectively named “Eurytemora affinis”.
About the systematics of Palaearctic Eurytemora (Copepoda, Calanoida) based on morphological analysis, with focus on Eurytemora gracilicauda Akatova, 1949
Authors: Fefilova Elena , Sukhikh Natalia , Abramova Ekaterina , Velegzhaninov Ilya
Published: June 2020

We studied the morphology of Eurytemora from inland waters at the shores of the White and Pechora seas and from the Lena River delta, and revealed a ubiquitous presence of Eurytemora gracilicauda Akatova, which results we confirmed with genetic data. We found this species for the first time in the Pechora Sea basin. In the White Sea basin, this species was previously described as E. brodskyi Kos, with the name that we suggest is a junior synonym of E. gracilicauda. E. gracilicauda differs from the co-living species: E. lacustris (Poppe), E. arctica Wilson M. S. & Tash, and E. raboti Richard, by the structure and armament of the caudal rami and the fifth legs (P5) of males and females. The caudal rami of both males and females were elongated. The female caudal rami showed a surface covered by spines. The male caudal rami were bare, or with rare spines on the sides. The appendages of the female P5 were also elongated: the length of the inner spine on the distal exopod segment was 2.27 ± 0.12 times as long as the outer spine; the exopod of the male right P5 had a specific trigonal ledge with a short spinule, and the coxopods (both or at least one) had groups of spinules. The morphometric parameters of the females were quite stable, while those of the male showed high variability within and between populations (CV = 11.5-43.5%). Similarities and differences of E. gracilicauda and three allochoric Eurytemora species were analysed, and the results presented herein.
Distribution of Eurytemora caspica Sukhikh & Alekseev, 2013 (Copepoda, Calanoida) in the water reservoirs of the Volga and Don river basins
Authors: Lazareva V. I.
Published: June 2020

The zooplankton composition of the Volga, Kama and Don rivers was studied in the summers of 2015-2018. The copepod Eurytemora caspica Sukhikh & Alekseev, 2013, recently isolated from the group of species contained in Eurytemora affinis, represents a widespread (50-100% of samples) and relatively abundant (maximum abundance up to 18 × 103 ind./m3) species. It is found in the Lower and Middle Volga from the city of Astrakhan to the mouth of the Kama River, in the Kama River to the upper reaches of the Kama reservoir, in the lower and middle sections of the Don River within the Tsimlyansk reservoir, as well as in the reservoirs of the Volga-Don shipping canal. In the Kama River, E. caspica was discovered by the author for the first time in 2016. In other habitats, it was previously identified as Eurytemora affinis (Poppe, 1880), although this particular species was not found in any of the analysed samples. The distribution features and habitat conditions of Eurytemora caspica in the rivers of the basins of the Caspian and Azov seas are discussed.
Abnormalities in shape and size of Eurytemora affinis (Copepoda, Calanoida) and its eggs under different environmental conditions
Authors: Souissi Anissa , Souissi Sami
Published: June 2020

In this study we examined the morphological anomalies of 2023 ovigerous females of the copepod Eurytemora affinis from laboratory and field samples. Field copepod collections were collected from 10 sites in Europe and North America. Laboratory cultured copepods were reared at 6 experimental conditions during several generations. The observation under the microscope of the ovigerous females’ bodies revealed the presence of a ‘Tumor Like Anomaly’ (TLA) on a few individuals, which were manifested on the urosome. The occurrence of TLA was only noticed on copepods from the field samples. This result shows that under controlled laboratory conditions, E. affinis do not manifest any abnormal morphology, even when temperature and salinity conditions are stressful, which also demonstrates the high plasticity of this copepod species and its capacity to live at a wide range of environmental parameters. In this study, we also confirmed that E. affinis is capable of producing eggs with a wide range of sizes, ranging from very small and abnormal eggs of 75.79 μm only, to very large eggs, reaching a maximal diameter of 128.71 μm. The observed large eggs are abnormal compared to the average size of the other eggs produced within the same clutch. Other abnormalities on eggs, such as deformed eggs or eggs infested by fungi, are only observed from field samples at a few sampling sites. In the Seine estuary, several abnormalities in eggs and adult females were observed during February 2010. The critical period for E. affinis’ development is sampling site-specific and needs to be accurately studied in the future to better explain the causes of the abnormalities described in this work, and their effects at population level.
Ceratopteris shingii, a new species of Ceratopteris with creeping rhizomes from Hainan, China

Authors: ZHANG RUI , YU JUN-HAO , SHAO WEN , WANG WEI-QING , SHANG HUI , ZHENG XI-LONG , YAN YUE-HONG
Published: June 2020

A new species of fern, Ceratopteris shingii (Pteridaceae), was identified and characterized. It is endemic to Hainan Province, China. Ceratopteris shingii shares similar morphological characters with C. thalictroides but can be easily distinguished by its creeping rhizomes. In addition, molecular evidence indicated that the new species is sister to other Ceratopteris species.
Taxonomic remarks on Genista salzmannii group (Fabaceae) in Sardinia and Corsica

Authors: BACCHETTA GIANLUIGI , BRULLO SALVATORE , FEOLI CHIAPELLA LAURA , CUSMA VELARI TIZIANA , FENU GIUSEPPE , GIUSSO DEL GALDO GIANPIETRO
Published: June 2020

A revision of the taxa belonging to the Genista salzmannii group of sect. Erinacoides (Cytiseae, Fabaceae) occurring in Sardinia and Corsica is carried out. The study, based on literature, herbarium materials and field investigations, allowed the recognition of several taxa, such as G. desoleana Valsecchi subsp. desoleana and subsp. martellii subsp. nov., Genista nuragica sp. nov., G. pichisermolliana Valsecchi, G. salzmannii Candolle de subsp. salzmannii, subsp. lobelioides (Gamisans) comb. et stat. nov. and subsp. limbarae subsp. nov. Taxonomical, nomenclatural, karyological, ecological and chorological remarks are provided for each taxa, as well as a detailed iconographies and SEM micrographs of seed testa. An analytical key of all examined taxa is also provided.
Morphological phylogeny and taxonomic revision of the former antlion subtribe Periclystina (Neuroptera: Myrmeleontidae: Dendroleontinae)
Authors: MACHADO RENATO JOSE PIRES , OSWALD JOHN DAVID
Published: June 2020

The species of the former antlion subtribe Periclystina (Neuroptera: Myrmeleontidae) are revised. Prior to this work Periclystina comprised 10 genera and 63 species endemic to Australia (62 spp.) and New Guinea (1 sp.). In this work two former genera are synonymized and four new genera are proposed (for a total of 12 valid genera), and six former species are synonymized and 16 new species are proposed (for a total of 73 valid species). A parsimony analysis utilizing 62 morphological characters is used to infer phylogenetic relationships among all 73 species, and suitable outgroups. Based on the results of the phylogenetic analysis, the tribal and/or generic assignments of 55 (75%) of former Periclystina species are modified here. Periclystina and its two largest genera—Austrogymnocnemia and Glenoleon—were all recovered as polyphyletic in their former circumscriptions. Ten species—placed here in six genera: Anomaloplectron, Csiroleon, Fissuleon gen. nov., Franzenia, Fusoleon and Latileon gen. nov.—clustered phylogenetically with Acanthoplectron and are transferred to the tribe Acanthoplectrini. The remaining 63 species—placed in six additional genera: Austrogymnocnemia, Glenoleon, Megagonoleon gen. nov., Minyleon gen. nov., Periclystus and Riekoleon—form a monophyletic Periclystus genus group and are transferred to the tribe Dendroleontini. All 73 species are (re)described and illustrated. New identification keys are provided for the tribes of Dendroleontinae, for the Australian genera of Acanthoplectrini and Dendroleontini, and for each of the non-monotypic genera treated. In addition, five new lectotypes are designated and 35 new combinations are created.
Haasea Verhoeff, 1895—a genus of tumultuous history and chaotic records—redefinition, revision of taxonomy and geographic distributions, with descriptions of two new species from Austria and Serbia (Diplopoda, Chordeumatida, Haaseidae)
Authors: ANTIĆ DRAGAN , AKKARI NESRINE
Published: June 2020

In this paper we revise the chordeumatidan genus Haasea Verhoeff, 1895 for the first time and describe two new species viz., H. gruberi sp. nov. and H. makarovi sp. nov. discovered in Austria and Serbia, respectively. A new terminology is proposed to standardize the description of the gonopod structures in the genus. Type material obtained from several institutions was examined and documented herein, whereby lectotypes are designated. We clarified the taxonomic status of a few taxa and consider the species H. norica (Verhoeff, 1913) and H. guidononveilleri Makarov, 2008 as a junior subjective synonyms of H. cyanopida (Attems, 1903) and H. vidinensis (Strasser, 1973a), respectively. The following subspecies or varieties, viz., Orobainosoma filicis ossiacum Verhoeff, 1939b, Orobainosoma flavescens vornatscheri Verhoeff, 1935, Orobainosoma hungaricum orientale Tabacaru, 1965, and Orobainosoma inflatum var. aspidiorum Verhoeff, 1929 are here regarded as junior subjective synonyms of their nominal taxa. The taxonomic relationships within the genus Haasea are discussed and an identification key to its 17 species is presented, based on number of body segments and gonopod structures.                Maps showing species occurences based on historical and recent records are presented to understand their respective geographic ranges. H. flavescens is now deleted from the list of species in Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Slovenia and Italy as these records were based on misidentified material. H. inflata is deleted from the fauna of Bosnia and Herzegovina, whereas H. hungarica is newly recorded from Austria, Serbia and Slovenia.
Pascoia, a new Deltocephalini leafhopper genus (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Deltocephalinae) from Peru
Authors: DUAN YANI , GAO YAO , DIETRICH CHRISTOPHER H.
Published: June 2020

A new genus of Deltocephalini Pascoia Duan gen. n. with P. rakitovi Duan sp. n. as type species is described and illustrated from the Andes Mountains in Peru.
Genetic diversity and species delimitation in Rhamdia (Siluriformes: Heptapteridae) in South America, with a redescription of R. quelen (Quoy & Gaimard, 1824)
Authors: ANGRIZANI RAFAEL COSTA , MALABARBA LUIZ ROBERTO
Published: June 2020

More than 100 species have been referred to Rhamdia since its description, but in the last revision of the genus more than two decades ago, only eleven species have been considered as valid. Rhamdia quelen was then redefined to include 47 junior synonyms, resulting in a species with a large distribution in the Neotropics, from Mexico to Argentina. Populations of Rhamdia from west of the Andes have been recently removed from the synonymy of R. quelen, and currently there are 27 species recognized in the genus. Most cis-Andean populations, however, remain referred to the R. quelen species complex. In this paper, we use species delimitation methods and multilocus phylogenetic analyses to delimit the species contained in the R. quelen species complex in cis-Andean river drainages. Eighteen MOTUs in the gene tree were recovered with high support. We further demonstrate that the previous designation of a neotype for R. quelen is invalid, and has to be replaced by the proper designation of a neotype from the type locality of the species. The neotype is designated herein and R. quelen is diagnosed and redescribed.
A new species of Pontoscolex earthworm (Rhinodrilidae, Clitellata) from the Gurupi Biological Reserve, along with records of earthworm species from the Amazon region of Maranhão, Brazil
Authors: SOUSA SANDRIEL COSTA , HERNÁNDEZ-GARCÍA LUIS MANUEL , ROUSSEAU GUILLAUME XAVIER
Published: June 2020

We describe a new species of the genus Pontoscolex from the Amazon region of Maranhão State in Brazil. The region is the most deforested and degraded in the biome, with only 25% of the original forest cover left. Pontoscolex awa sp. nov. has regular setae, very small spermathecae, and tubercula pubertatis band-shaped extending to AB line in XIX–XII. Common and genital setae are of similar length and without ornamentations; these features are new in the genus, although unknown in several species. The Gurupi Biological Reserve where the new species was found is the only integral protection area within the Belém Endemism Area and therefore of crucial importance for conservation of earthworms and other endemic organisms.
Discrimination of Uranotaenia species (Diptera: Culicidae) from Madagascar based on morphology and wing morphometric traits
Authors: TANTELY MICHAËL LUCIANO , RANDRIANAMBININTSOA FANO JOSE , RAKOTONIRINA ANTSA , WOOG FRIEDERIKE , BOYER SEBASTIEN , GIROD ROMAIN
Published: June 2020

The genus Uranotaenia (Diptera: Culicidae) has been well documented in Madagascar where it includes 73 species, 89.4% being endemic. However, one problem is that most species are morphologically similar in the adult stage. Here, 713 Uranotaenia specimens collected in the tropical forests of Anorana and Maromizaha between 2008 and 2014 were examined. Using the dichotomous keys for the Uranotaenia fauna of Madagascar published in 2004, three species were identified: Uranotaenia neireti (220), Ur. alboabdominalis (110) and Ur. mayottensis (28). The other specimens (355) were not identifiable and were classified as Uranotaenia sp1. Using wing morphometry, the four taxa were classified into four morphogroups. Within the Uranotaenia sp1 group, specimens from the Anorana forest and those from the Maromizaha forest overlapped. This result suggests that wing morphometric traits could be a good marker to distinguish Uranotaenia species in Madagascar.
Adrenocortical Carcinoma: A Single Institution Experience
Authors: Gomez-Rivera Fernando , Medina-Franco Heriberto , Arch-Ferrer Jorge E. , Heslin Martin J.
Published: June 2020

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ADCC) ranks among the least common malignant endocrine tumors. Surgical resection is considered the most important treatment for this neoplasm. Medical records of patients with the diagnosis of ADCC between 1990 and 2000 were reviewed. Patient and pathologic factors were analyzed with overall survival as the primary endpoint. Statistical analysis was performed by the method of Kaplan-Meier. There were a total of 17 patients, with a mean age of 56 years. Twelve per cent presented as an asymptomatic mass, 41 per cent as a functional tumor, and 47 per cent as a nonfunctioning tumor. Primary treatment was surgical resection in 71 per cent. There was no operative mortality and one complication. Seven patients presented with stage II, five with stage III, four with stage IV, and in one could not be determined. Median follow-up was 12.8 months, median survival 67, 13, and 3 months for stages II, III, and IV, respectively. Older age, distant metastasis, nonoperative management, positive margins, advanced tumor stage, and venous invasion were significantly associated with worse overall actuarial survival. Survival for ADCC is poor. Factors associated with a worse prognosis were stage of disease, nonoperative management, positive surgical margins, vascular invasion, and older age.
A Proposed Algorithm for Managing the Open Abdomen
Authors: Cipolla James , Stawicki Stanislaw P. , Hoff William S. , Mcquay Nathaniel , Hoey Brian A. , Wainwright Gail , Grossman Michael D.
Published: June 2020

Delayed abdominal closure has gained acceptance in managing a variety of surgical conditions. Multiple techniques were devised to promote safe, uncomplicated, expeditious fascial closure. We retrospectively reviewed patient records between September 22, 2001 and June 30, 2004. Of the 20 patients with open abdomen, two patients died within 24 hours and one was transferred. The remaining 17 were managed using an algorithm including a combination of delayed primary closure (DPC), vacuum-assisted fascial closure (VAFC), Wittmann Patch (WP) (Star Surgical, Inc., Burlington, WI), and planned ventral hernia via absorbable mesh with split thickness skin grafting (PVH). The mean Simplified Acute Physiology Scores (SAPS II) was 31 (predicted mortality 73%). All patients initially underwent VAFC and re-exploration 12–48 hours later. Indications for continued VAFC included 1) gross contamination, 2) massive bowel edema, 3) continued bleeding at re-exploration. If these conditions were absent, DPC was attempted or a WP was employed until fascial closure. Twenty-eight day mortality was 5.9 per cent (1/17 patients). Enterocutaneous fistulae occurred in two patients (11.7%). Fascial closure was achieved in 6 patients (35.3%). Eleven patients were managed with PVH. Using an algorithm with a combination of several techniques, open abdomen can be managed with minimal morbidity and acceptable closure rates.
A Fatal Case of Necrotizing Fasciitis Caused by Serratia marcescens
Authors: Curtis Christopher E. , Chock Stefan , Henderson Terrance , Holman Michael J.
Published: June 2020

A patient with a history of type II diabetes mellitus (DM), end stage renal disease (ESRD), and congestive heart failure (CHF) developed necrotizing fasciitis caused by Serratia marcescens after scraping his leg on rocks in a river while fishing. Aggressive management with surgical debridement, antibiotics, and pressure support was unsuccessful.
Acellular Dermal Matrix (AlloDerm): New Material in the Repair of Stoma Site Hernias
Authors: Kish Karen J. , Buinewicz Brian R. , Morris Jon B.
Published: June 2020

Parastomal hernias are a common complication after ileostomy or colostomy formation and can lead to complications, such as intestinal obstruction and strangulation. When a parastomal hernia presents, repair of the defect can pose a challenge to the surgeon to choose a repair that both reduces complications and recurrence rates. We present three cases of parastomal hernia repair using acellular dermal matrix (AlloDerm) as reinforcement to the primary hernia repair. We prospectively followed three patients who presented with parastomal hernia after ostomy formation in 2001–2002. The patients underwent repair of the parastomal hernia using primary fascial repair with reinforcement using AlloDerm as an on-lay patch. Two patients were followed for 6 months and 1 year, respectively, and remained hernia-free. One patient presented 8 months later with symptoms of intestinal obstruction that were relieved by nasogastric tube decompression and bowel rest. The patient subsequently returned 3 months later with intestinal obstruction and recurrent parastomal hernia that necessitated an operation for relocation of the stoma and repeat hernia repair. Repair of parastomal hernias using AlloDerm acellular dermal matrix as a substitute for a synthetic graft showed resilience to infection and, more importantly, tolerated exposure in an open wound without having to be removed. Larger studies with longer follow-up are needed to see if this material reduces the incidence of hernia recurrence.
Adrenal Myelolipoma: Report of a Case and Review of the Literature
Authors: Patel Vijaykumar G. , Babalola Olufemi A. , Fortson James K. , Weaver William L.
Published: June 2020

Adrenal myelolipoma is a rare benign tumor composed of mature lipomatous and hemopoietic tissue. Although it is often discovered as an incidental finding on imaging of the abdomen for some other reason or at autopsy, adrenal myelolipoma has been reported to present with symptoms such as flank pain resulting from tumor bulk, necrosis, or spontaneous retroperitoneal hemorrhage. Myelolipomas are hormonally inactive but have also been reported to coexist with other hormonally active tumors of the adrenal gland. They are usually unilateral but may be bilateral and may also develop in extraadrenal sites like the retroperitoneum, thorax, and pelvis. We report a patient with symptomatic adrenal myelolipoma diagnosed on computed tomography scan and confirmed on computed tomography-guided biopsy. The patient underwent surgical resection for symptomatic relief. We also review the literature to evaluate the presentation and optimal management of this rare adrenal tumor that is not encountered by most general surgeons and therefore not well known to most surgeons.
The Challenge of Changing Roles and Improving Surgical Care Now: Crew Resource Management Approach
Authors: Mcgreevy James , Otten Tyler , Poggi Michael , Robinson Christopher , Castaneda David , Wade Patrick
Published: June 2020

Many surgeons are also pilots; the two activities demand similar skill sets. Surgeons have developed an interest in aviation models for managing risk and reducing adverse events, such as Crew Resource Management training. This article provides seven suggestions from aviators that might be adopted by surgeons in an effort to improve surgical care and mitigate patient harm. Each suggestion is offered based on the value added to aviation, with an acknowledgment that the suggestion may be more or less applicable in surgery. The suggestions for dealing with the changing roles for surgeons are: Crew Resource Management-type training to improve teamwork should be required for hospital credentialing, surgeons should brief the operating room team before an operation, surgeons should write standards specific to their organization, surgeons should recognize fatigue and age as factors in performance, surgeons should have “check-rides” as a part of the credentialing process, surgeons should abandon the mortality and morbidity conference in favor of a data collection system that effectively examines adverse events for root causes of error, and all members of the surgical team should be subject to mandatory, random drug testing.
Transabdominal Approach for Management of Boerhaave's Syndrome
Authors: Khan Aamir Z. , Forshaw Mathew J. , Davies Andrew R. , Youngstein Taryn , Mason Robert C. , Botha Abraham J.
Published: June 2020

Several transthoracic approaches have been described for the surgical management of Boerhaave's syndrome that carry their own morbidity in patients who can be systemically unwell at presentation, and best practice is not established. We introduce a novel transabdominal approach to manage the perforation and spare these patients the trauma of a thoracotomy. Four patients with spontaneous esophageal rupture were managed using a transabdominal approach. Postoperative complications, length of intensive care unit stay, postoperative hospital stay, time to oral intake, and morbidity and mortality were used as outcome measures. After operation, the median intensive care unit stay was 4 days (range, 0–5) in patients who required a median of 10.5 days (range, 6–17) to establish oral intake. One patient required a transthoracic drainage of an empyema and one patient required percutaneous drainage of a mediastinal collection. The median length of stay was 38 days and there was zero mortality. The transabdominal approach is safe and effective for the management of Boerhaave's syndrome and should be considered in the treatment paradigm for this condition. Intrathoracic complications account for postoperative morbidity.
Small Bowel Volvulus Caused by Migrating Mesh Plug
Authors: Stout Christopher L. , Foret Andrew , Christie D. Benjamin , Mullis Earl
Published: June 2020

The choice of material and technique for repair of inguinal hernias is broad. The mesh plug technique has become one of these techniques. The local complications of this technique are well known and include entrapment and damage of nervous and reproductive structures causing pain and even infertility. Migration of the mesh recently has become evident. We found a few cases of migrating mesh plug in the literature. We report a 76-year-old male patient who presented during admission for a neurosurgical procedure. His hospital course was complicated by migrating mesh eroding into the small intestine presenting as a small bowel obstruction. During exploratory laparotomy, a small bowel volvulus was found and reduced along with resection of the bowel–mesh complex. We discuss and review this technique's complications, including a 9-year review of adverse events reported to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Liver Transplantation for HELLP Syndrome
Authors: Zarrinpar Ali , Farmer Douglas G. , Ghobrial R. Mark , Lipshutz Gerald S. , Gu Yan , Hiatt Jonathan R. , Busuttil Ronald W.
Published: June 2020

Of the approximately one in 1000 pregnant women who develop the syndrome of hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelets (HELLP), 2 to 3 per cent develop hepatic complications, including liver failure for which liver transplantation (LT) may be required. Between February 1, 1984, and December 31, 2006, eight women without a history of liver disease underwent LT for complications of HELLP syndrome. All received cadaveric grafts with a mean interval from delivery to LT of 7 days. The mean admission Child-Turcotte-Pugh score was 13.1 (class C), and the mean model for end-stage liver disease score was 40. Manifestations of liver failure included encephalopathy (seven patients), renal failure (four), disseminated intravascular coagulation (three), and respiratory failure (one). There were no intraoperative deaths. Complications of LT included biliary leaks (three patients), reoperation (three), and retransplantation (two). There was one death from sepsis on postoperative day 91 and one death from cholangitis/sepsis more than 5 years postoperatively. After LT, 1-, 5-, and 10-year patient survival rates were 88 per cent, 88 per cent, and 65 per cent; 1-, 5-, and 10-year graft survival rates were 64 per cent, 64 per cent, and 48 per cent. This is the largest single-center report of LT for HELLP. Early recognition and transfer to a transplant center will yield best results with this challenging complication of pregnancy.
Small Bowel Adenocarcinoma Complicating Crohn's Disease: Case Series and Review of the Literature
Authors: Dossett Lesly A. , White Lisa M. , Welch Dereck C. , Herline Alan J. , Muldoon Roberta L. , Schwartz David A. , Wise Paul E.
Published: June 2020

Colonic adenocarcinoma frequently complicates inflammatory bowel disease of the colon, but small bowel adenocarcinoma (SBA) is a rare complication of Crohn's disease (CD). We present two patients with SBA in CD and review the literature with regards to CD-related SBA. A 45-year-old male with a 17-year history of ileal CD presented with obstructive symptoms but no radiographic evidence of a mass. After laparoscopic ileocolectomy and repair of incidental ileosigmoid fistula, pathology showed a T3N0 adenocarcinoma within the ileal CD. Two years after his resection he was without evidence of disease. A 59-year-old male with a 15-year history of CD presented with an acute exacerbation. Small bowel follow through demonstrated a long ileal stricture for which he underwent an ileocolic resection. Postoperative pathology confirmed a T3N1 CD-related SBA. He died from metastatic cancer 3 months later. Review of the literature identified 154 cases of SBA complicating CD with several distinguishing features from de novo SBA. Patients with SBA and CD are, as a group, younger and more likely to be male. SBA is rarely diagnosed preoperatively in these patients, and has a poor prognosis due to its advanced stage at diagnosis.
Hidradenitis Suppurativa Complicated by Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Constantinou Constantinos , Widom Kenneth , Desantis Joseph , Obmann Melissa
Published: June 2020

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the apocrine glands of the axilla, groin, and perianal region. Although it is a common condition, it is rarely associated with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). There have been only 41 reports of this uncommon complication of HS in the literature. This study includes two uncommon presentations of HS associated with SCC along with a literature review. The first patient developed diffuse abdominal carcinomatosis from SCC in the anogenital region arising from HS. This is a rare event in patients with perianal SCC, with only one case previously described in the literature. The second patient developed malignant hypercalcemia, an uncommon complication of cutaneous SCC. The current report represents the largest review of the literature of patients with SCC secondary to longstanding HS. A recurrence rate of 48 per cent was observed after “curative” resection. Approximately half of the patients succumbed to their disease, and the grade of carcinoma was the only predictor of mortality. These two new cases underline the importance of close follow-up and aggressive management of patients with HS. Although the development of carcinoma is an uncommon event in HS, the consequences can be devastating with mortality approaching 50 per cent.
Surgical Considerations for the Familial Cancer Syndrome, Neurofibromatosis 1: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Slam Kristine D. , Bohman Summer L. , Sharma Rupa , Chaudhuri Prabir K.
Published: June 2020

Neurofibromatosis 1 is one of the more common in heritable disorders that surgeons may encounter. A plethora of systemic associations, both benign and malignant, can affect these patients, and an acute awareness of these associations is essential for proper surgical care. A complete review of this disorder from the surgical perspective follows, highlighting the importance of this awareness. A brief review on the management and follow-up of surgical malignancies associated with this disorder is included.
Real-World Experience with Type I Endoleaks after Endovascular Repair of the Thoracic Aorta
Authors: Adams Joshua D. , Tracci Margaret C. , Sabri Sahir , Cherry Kenneth J. , Angle John F. , Matsumoto Alan H. , Kern John A.
Published: June 2020

Endoleaks are a frequent complication of thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) and will likely increase in incidence with application of the technique to more complicated aortic anatomy and a wider range of thoracic aortic pathologies. Management generally consists of aggressive repair of Type I endoleaks; however, the natural history of Type I endoleaks after TEVAR remains largely unknown. The purpose of this study was to examine the incidence and characteristics of Type I endoleaks and to evaluate clinical outcomes of patients with Type I endoleaks after TEVAR. A single-center retrospective review was performed on all patients who underwent TEVAR over a 4-year period. Type I endoleaks were detected in 21 per cent (27 of 129) of patients on post-deployment aortography or CT angiography. During a mean follow-up of 750.63 ± 483 days, 59 per cent (16 of 27) closed spontaneously; 30 per cent (eight of 27) required secondary endovascular intervention; and 11 per cent (three of 27) have persisted with no increase in maximum aortic diameter. No patients have died or required open surgical conversion as a result of their Type I endoleak. Although accurate predictors of spontaneous resolution of Type I endoleaks have yet to be definitively characterized, our initial results suggest that it may be safe to observe small Type I endoleaks given that a large percentage resolve spontaneously and no endoleak-related deaths have occurred.
Prior Biliary Tree Instrumentation Does Not Preclude Hepatic Arterial Therapy for Malignancy
Authors: Bowling Jason T. , Reuter Nathan P. , Martin Robert C.G. , Mcmasters Kelly M. , Tatum Cliff , Scoggins Charles R.
Published: June 2020

Hepatic arterial therapy (HAT) has become an accepted alternative for patients with unresectable hepatic malignancies. HAT has an acceptable toxicity profile, yet its safety for use in patients who have undergone significant biliary manipulation is undocumented. A retrospective review identified 18 consecutive patients with unresectable hepatic malignancies who had undergone significant prior biliary tree manipulation. All patients received peri-HAT antibiotics. Clinicopathologic, treatment-related, and outcomes data were collected and analyzed. Eighteen patients who had HAT were analyzed; 72 per cent were men, the median age was 61 years, and 61 per cent had greater than 25 per cent hepatic parenchymal replacement by tumor. Seventy-eight per cent of patients had an indwelling biliary stent and 22 per cent had undergone a hepaticojejunostomy Twenty-two per cent of patients developed a complication, none of which were infectious, and there were no peri-HAT deaths. The majority of patients had evidence of either a partial response (55%) or stable disease (22%) upon follow-up. One patient had a complete response to HAT. The median survival was 27 months. Hepatic arterial therapy seems to be safe for patients with unresectable hepatic malignancies and a history of significant biliary instrumentation. There is no increased risk of infectious complications in this population after HAT
Does a Family History of Male Breast Cancer Influence Risk Perception and Use of Genetic Testing?
Authors: Schiffman Suzanne C. , Chagpar Anees B.
Published: June 2020

We sought to determine differences in risk perception and use of genetic testing in these individuals compared with those with a family history of female breast cancer (FHxFBC) in a population-based cohort. Data from the 2005 National Health Interview Survey were used to assess risk perception and use of genetic counseling in individuals with a family history of male breast cancer (FHxMBC) versus those with a FHxFBC. Of the 2429 individuals with a first-degree relative with breast cancer surveyed, 21 (0.7%) had a FHxMBC, whereas 2408 (99.3%) had a FHxFBC. Women who had a FHxMBC perceived themselves as being at higher risk for developing breast cancer than those with a FHxFBC (61.5 vs 46.5%, P = 0.011). Fewer individuals with a FHxMBC had heard about genetic testing than those with a FHxFBC (38.4 vs 50.8%, P = 0.322). Of these, none of the individuals with a FHxMBC discussed this with their physician (vs 13% of individuals with a FHxFBC, P = 0.004) and none underwent genetic testing (vs 3% of individuals with a FHxFBC, P = 0.009). Women with a FHxMBC perceive this as being associated with increased cancer risk, but few discuss this with their physicians. Physicians should be proactive in discussing risk with these patients.