bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Computed Tomography-Assessed Sarcopenia Indexes Predict Major Complications following Surgery for Hepatopancreatobiliary Malignancy: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Cao Qin , Xiong Yan , Zhong Zibiao , Ye Qifa
Published: December 2018

Background: Computed tomography (CT)-assessed sarcopenia indexes have been reported to predict postoperative morbidity and mortality; however conclusions drawn from different indexes and studies remain controversial. Aim: The purpose of this meta-analysis was to evaluate various CT-assessed sarcopenia indexes as predictors of risk for major complications in patients undergoing hepatopancreatobiliary surgery for malignancy. Methods: Medline/PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases were systematically searched to identify relevant studies published before June 2018. PRISMA guidelines for systematic reviews were followed. The pooled risk ratio (RR) for major postoperative complications (Clavien-Dindo ≥III) was estimated in patients with sarcopenia versus patients without sarcopenia. Data extracted were meta-analyzed using Review Manager (version 5.3). Results: Twenty-eight studies comprising 6,656 patients were included in this study. CT-assessed sarcopenia indexes, such as skeletal muscle index (SMI, RR 1.36; 95% CI 1.14–1.63; p = 0.0008; I2 = 24%), psoas muscle index (PMI, RR 1.35; 95% CI 1.15–1.58; p = 0.0002; I2 = 0%), muscle attenuation (MA, RR 1.40; 95% CI 1.14–1.73; p = 0.002; I2 = 4%), and intramuscular adipose tissue content (IMAC, RR 1.63; 95% CI 1.28–2.09; p < 0.0001; I2 = 0%) were all predictors of postoperative major complications, although moderate heterogeneity existed and cutoffs for these indexes to define sarcopenia varied. Conclusions: All commonly used CT-assessed sarcopenia indexes, such as SMI, PMI, MA, and IMAC can predict the risk of major postoperative complications; however, a consensus on the cutoffs for these indexes to define sarcopenia is still lacking.
ErbB4 Receptors in the Medial Habenula Regulate Contextual Fear Memory
Authors: Geng Fei , Liu Jia-Yun , Chen Xiao-Wen , Zou Wen-Jun , Wu Jian-Lin , Rodriguez Guadalupe , Peng Chao , Tian Jia , Lu Gui-Feng
Published: December 2018

The Medial Habenular (MHb) and the Lateral Habenular nuclei are 2 main parts of the habenular complex (Hb). Recent studies showed that MHb plays an important role in memory, and in the expression of ErbB4. However, the expression of MHb ErbB4 receptor and its role in fear memory is not well understood. In this study, western blotting and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction were used to assess the protein and mRNA levels of ErbB4 in the process of contextual fear conditioning. A pharmacological approach was used to block and stimulate the ErbB4 receptor. Contextual fear conditioning tests induced a significant increase on the expression of ErbB4 at various times in the Hb and the MHb. Moreover, the blockade and stimulation of MHb ErbB4 receptors did not affect the fear formation but impaired and improved the contextual-dependent fear expression. Furthermore, in vitro electrophysiological recordings showed that the blockade of the MHb ErbB4 receptor reduced the presynaptic gamma-amino butyric acid release. ErbB4 is a susceptible gene for schizophrenia and the above findings may provide new insights into the mechanisms of fear-related responses.
Solitary Bone Metastasis as the First Presentation of Germ Cell Testicular Cancer Treated with Internal Hemipelvectomy: A Case Report
Authors: Mourão Thiago Camelo , Batista Ranyell Matheus Spencer S. , Aguiar Jr. Samuel , de Cássio Zequi Stênio , Lopes Ademar
Published: December 2018

Solitary bone metastasis from testicular tumor is rare. In literature, only few cases of isolated bone metastasis at first presentation have been reported, and none of them have been treated with extended surgery of the pelvic bone. Case Presentation: We report the case of a 33-year-old man with an iliac bone osteolytic metastasis as the first presentation of a non-seminomatous germ-cell testis tumor (NSGCT), treated with post-chemotherapy en bloc resection of residual tumor in the left iliac bone (Type I + II internal hemipelvectomy). After a 72-month follow-up, the patient has been asymptomatic, with no signs of local recurrence or metastasis and negative serum tumor markers. Conclusions: In selected cases, testicular NSGCT with iliac bone metastasis and normal or normalizing tumor markers can be treated, in association with chemotherapy, by extended surgery, including bone resection, to obtain gain in survival and maintain limb function.
Chemical and Biological Studies of Cannabis sativa Roots
Authors: Elhendawy Mostafa A. , Wanas Amira S. , Radwan Mohamed M. , Azzaz Nabil A. , Toson ElShahat S. , ElSohly Mahmoud A.
Published: December 2018

The chemical study of Cannabis sativa roots led to the isolation and identification of 10 compounds. Their chemical structures were unambiguously established on the basis of 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry as friedelan-3-one (1), epifriedelanol (2), β-sitosterol (3), ergost-5-en-3-ol (4), methyl hexadecanoate (5), pentadecanoic acid (6), 10E-hexadecenoic acid (7), 4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzaldehyde (8), β-sitosterol-β-D-glucoside (9) and p-coumaroyltyramine (10). Compounds 5–9 were reported for the first time from C. sativa roots. All the isolated compounds were tested for their antimicrobial activity. Compound 4 showed modest activity against Cryptococcus neoformans with an IC50 value of 13.7 μg/mL, while compound 10 displayed potent activity against Escherichia coli with an IC50 value of 0.8 μg/mL. A high-performance liquid chromatography method was developed and validated for the detection and quantification of p-coumaroyltyramine (10) in the extracts of different varieties of C. sativa roots.
microRNA-15 Activates NF-κB Pathway via Down Regulating Expression of Adenosine A2 Receptor in Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Zhang Huixia , Li Wei
Published: December 2018

Background/Aims: The role of miR-15 in ulcerative colitis (UC) is unclear. In this study, we found that miR-15 downregulated the expression of adenosine A2a receptor (A2aAR) in the colonic tissues of patients with UC and in HT-29 human colonic epithelial cells. Methods: The study population comprised patients with UC (n=23), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS, n=22), and healthy subjects (n = 20). The levels of miR-15, A2aAR, and protein in colon tissue biopsies were determined by real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, immunofluorescence staining, and Western blotting. The TargetScan prediction algorithm was used to identify the miR-15 binding site in the 3′-UTR of A2aAR. To assess the effects of miR-15 on A2aAR levels, HT-29 cells were transfected with miR-15 mimics. Results: Relative to expression in healthy subjects, A2aAR expression was decreased in UC patients and was similar in IBS patients. MiR-15 levels were higher in UC patients than in IBS patients or healthy subjects. A2aAR was the target of miR-15 in HT-29 cells, which downregulated A2aAR mRNA levels. MiR-15 mimics induced nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65 and upregulated the expression of IL-8 and IFN-γ in colonic epithelial cells; these effects were reversed by an miR-15 inhibitor. A2aAR knockdown confirmed that miR-15 activated the NF-κB cascade. Conclusion: Our data suggest that miR-15 modulates inflammatory and immune responses by suppressing the expression of A2aAR and regulating the NF-κB cascade.
Simvastatin Protects Dopaminergic Neurons Against MPP+-Induced Oxidative Stress and Regulates the Endogenous Anti-Oxidant System Through ERK
Authors: Yan Junqiang , Qiao Liang , Wu Jiannan , Fan Hua , Sun Jiachun , Zhang Yude
Published: December 2018

Background/Aims: Many clinical studies have demonstrated that statins, especially simvastatin, can decrease the incidence of Parkinson’s disease (PD). However, the specific underlying mechanism remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate how simvastatin affects experimental parkinsonian models via the regulation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2)-mediated activation of the anti-oxidant system. Methods: l-Methyl-4-phenylpyridine ion (MPP+)-treated SH-SY5Y cells and substantia nigra neurons were used to investigate the neuroprotective effect of simvastatin. After incubation with MPP+ and/or simvastatin for 24 h, the MTT assay was used to assess cell viability. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were measured using 2′,7′-dichlorofluorescin diacetate, while cellular superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels were determined based on the blue formazan produced by the reduction of nitroblue tetrazolium. The level of cellular grade micro-reduced glutathione (GSH) was measured with 5,5’-dithiobis-(2-nitrobenzoic acid). Meanwhile, the malondialdehyde content released from SH-SY5Y cells and substantia nigra neuronal cells exposed to different culture media was calculated based on the condensation reaction involving thiobarbituric acid. The mRNA levels of genes encoding nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2), heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1), and NAD(P)H dehydrogenase (quinone) 1 (NQO-1) were determined by a quantitative polymerase chain reaction assay, while the ERK, Nrf2, HO-1, NOX2, and NQO-1 protein levels were analyzed by western blot. Additionally, ERK small interfering RNA (siRNA) was used to investigate the mechanisms underlying MPP+-induced oxidative stress and the regulation of the endogenous anti-oxidant system. Results: Simvastatin (1.5 μM) enhanced the viability of SH-SY5Y cells and primary neurons treated with MPP+, and significantly alleviated the oxidative stress induced by MPP+ in SH-SY5Y cells by regulating the production of SOD, analytical grade micro-reduced GSH, and ROS, which may be associated with the activation of the Nrf2 anti-oxidant system. An analysis involving ERK1/2 siRNA revealed that simvastatin can inhibit NOX2 expression via the activation of ERK1/2 in the MPP+-treated PD cell model. Conclusion: Our results provide strong evidence that ERK1/2-mediated modulation of the anti-oxidant system after simvastatin treatment may partially explain the anti-oxidant activity in experimental parkinsonian models. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the critical roles of simvastatin via the ERK1/2-mediated modulation of the anti-oxidant system, which may be relevant for treating PD.
Origem do nome "América" e o Brasil na cartografia quinhentista
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Filosofia, Letras e Ciências Humanas, Papavero Nelson
Published: December 2018

O nome “América”, aplicado ao que é agora a América do Sul, foi cunhado por Waldseemüller (1507), baseado na crença errônea de haver sido descoberto o “Novo Mundo” por Amerigo Vespucci. Após ter lido a versão de Montalboddo (1507) do relato do Piloto Anônimo, descrevendo a viagem de Pedro Álvares Cabral, em sua Carta marina (Waldessemüller, 1517) quis descartar o nome “América”, substituindo-o por Brasilia sive Terra Papagalli. Mas autores subsequentes (p. ex. Lorenz Fries (1522), Willibald Pirckheimer (1525), Franciscus Monachus (ca. 1526) e Gemma Frisius (1544)) continuaram a empregar o nome “América”, que perdura até hoje. Mercator (1538) foi o primeiro a separar a “América” numa parte setentrional e outra meridional. Quanto ao nome “Brasil”, como nome do país, ele aparece por primeira vez, tanto quanto se saiba, num globo terrestre feito com duas metades de ovos de avestruz, datado de 1504 (“TERRA DE BRAZIL, MVNDVS NOVVS, TERRAE SANCTAE CRUCIS”), antecedendo a primeira citação registrada num manuscrito, o Llyuro da náoo bertoa que vay para a terra do brazyll de 1511. Sessenta outros mapas quinhentistas são também acrescentados, mostrando as variações do nome “Brasil”.
Circulating Osteonectin and Adipokine Profiles in Relation to Metabolically Healthy Obesity in Chinese Children: Findings From BCAMS
Authors: Fu Junling , Li Yu , Esangbedo Issy C. , Li Ge , Feng Dan , Li Lujiao , Xu Lu , Han Lanwen , Li Mingyao , Li Changhong , Gao Shan , Li Ming , Willi Steven. M.
Published: December 2018

Background

The role of adipokine dysregulation in determining the metabolic fate of obesity is not well studied. We aimed to examine whether the matricellular protein osteonectin and the profiles of certain adipokines could differentiate metabolically healthy obese (
MHO
) versus metabolically unhealthy obese phenotypes in childhood.

Methods and Results

This study included 1137 obese children and 982 normal‐weight healthy (
NWH
) controls recruited from the BCAMS (Beijing Child and Adolescent Metabolic Syndrome) study.
MHO
was defined by the absence of insulin resistance and/or any metabolic syndrome components. Six adipokines—osteonectin, leptin, adiponectin, resistin, FGF21 (fibroblast growth factor 21), and RBP‐4 (retinol binding protein 4)—were assessed. Approximately 20% of obese children displayed the
MHO
phenotype.
MHO
children had a more favorable adipokine profile than metabolically unhealthy obese children, with lower osteonectin, leptin, and
RBP
‐4 and higher adiponectin (all
P
<0.05). Compared with normal‐weight healthy controls,
MHO
children displayed increased leptin, resistin, and
RBP
‐4 levels and reduced adiponectin concentrations (all
P
<0.05) but similar osteonectin and
FGF
21 levels. Among obese subjects, decreased osteonectin (odds ratio [OR]: 0.82; 95% confidence interval [CI] per standard deviation, 0.70–0.97),
RBP
‐4 (OR: 0.77; 95% CI per standard deviation, 0.64–0.93), and leptin/adiponectin ratio (OR: 0.58; 95% CI per standard deviation, 0.43–0.77) were independent predictors of
MHO
. In addition, compared with children without abnormalities, those with any 3 adipokine abnormalities were 80% less likely to exhibit the
MHO
phenotype (
OR
: 0.20; 95%
CI
, 0.10–0.43) and 3 times more likely to have metabolic syndrome (
OR
: 2.77; 95%
CI
, 1.52–5.03).

Conclusions

These findings suggest that dysregulation of adipokines might govern the metabolic consequences of obesity in children. Low osteonectin levels, along with a healthy adipokine profile, might be used as an early marker of the
MHO
phenotype.
Twelve‐Lead ECG Optimization of Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy in Patients With and Without Delayed Enhancement on Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Gage Ryan M. , Khan Akbar H. , Syed Imran S. , Bajpai Ambareesh , Burns Kevin V. , Curtin Antonia E. , Blanchard Amanda L. , Gillberg Jeffrey M. , Ghosh Subham , Bank Alan J.
Published: December 2018

Background

Delayed enhancement (
DE
) on magnetic resonance imaging is associated with ventricular arrhythmias, adverse events, and worse left ventricular mechanics. We investigated the impact of
DE
on cardiac resynchronization therapy (
CRT
) outcomes and the effect of
CRT
optimization.

Methods and Results

We studied 130 patients with ejection fraction (
EF
) ≤40% and
QRS
≥120 ms, contrast cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, and both pre‐ and 1‐year post‐
CRT
echocardiograms. Sixty‐three (48%) patients did not have routine optimization of
CRT
. The remaining patients were optimized for wavefront fusion by 12‐lead
ECG
. The primary end point in this study was change in
EF
following
CRT
. To investigate the association between electrical dyssynchrony and
EF
outcomes, the standard deviation of activation times from body‐surface mapping was calculated during native conduction and selected device settings in 52 of the optimized patients. Patients had no
DE
(n=45), midwall septal stripe (n=30), or scar (n=55). Patients without
DE
had better ∆
EF
(13±10 versus 4±10 units;
P
<0.01). Optimized patients had greater ∆
EF
in midwall stripe (2±9 versus 12±12 units;
P
=0.01) and scar (0±7 versus 5±10;
P
=0.04) groups, but not in the no‐
DE
group. Patients without
DE
had greater native standard deviation of activation times (
P
=0.03) and greater ∆standard deviation of activation times with standard programming (
P
=0.01). Device optimization reduced standard deviation of activation times only in patients with
DE
(
P
<0.01).

Conclusions

DE
on magnetic resonance imaging is associated with worse
EF
outcomes following
CRT
. Device optimization is associated with improved
EF
and reduced electrical dyssynchrony in patients with
DE
.
CD40L Priming of Platelets via NF‐κB Activation is CD40‐ and TAK1‐Dependent
Authors: Kojok Kevin , Akoum Souhad El , Mohsen Mira , Mourad Walid , Merhi Yahye
Published: December 2018

Background

CD40 ligand (CD40L) is a thromboinflammatory molecule that predicts cardiovascular events. CD40L is a strong activator of nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB) in platelets that primes and enhances platelet activation in response to thrombotic stimuli. In addition to its classical receptor CD40, CD40L binds αIIbβ3, α5β1, and αMβ2 in various cell types. However, the function of the different CD40L receptors on platelets remains unexplored. The present study aims to identify the receptors of CD40L, involved in platelet NF‐κB activation, their downstream signaling and their implication in platelet aggregation.

Methods and Results

We showed that platelets express CD40, αIIbβ3, and α5β1 and release CD40L in response to sCD40L stimulation. sCD40L alone dose‐dependently induced platelet NF‐κB activation; this effect was absent in CD40
−/−
mouse platelets and inhibited by the CD40 blockade, but was unaffected by the αIIbβ3 or α5β1 blockade in human platelets. sCD40L/CD40 axis activates transforming growth factor‐β‐activated kinase 1 upstream of NF‐κB. In functional studies, sCD40L alone did not affect platelet aggregation but potentiated the aggregation response in the presence of suboptimal doses of thrombin; this effect was abolished by CD40, transforming growth factor‐β‐activated kinase 1, and NF‐κB inhibitors.

Conclusions

CD40L primes platelets via signaling pathways involving CD40/transforming growth factor‐β‐activated kinase 1/NF‐κB, which predisposes platelets to enhanced activation and aggregation in response to thrombotic stimuli.
Associations of Smoke‐Free Policies in Restaurants, Bars, and Workplaces With Blood Pressure Changes in the CARDIA Study
Authors: Mayne Stephanie L. , Jacobs David R. , Schreiner Pamela J. , Widome Rachel , Gordon‐Larsen Penny , Kershaw Kiarri N.
Published: December 2018

Background

Smoke‐free legislation has been associated with reductions in secondhand smoke exposure and cardiovascular disease. However, it remains unknown whether smoke‐free policies are associated with reductions in blood pressure (
BP
).

Methods and Results

Longitudinal data from 2606 nonsmoking adult participants of the
CARDIA
(Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults) Study (1995–2011) were linked to state, county, and local‐level 100% smoke‐free policies in bars, restaurants, and/or nonhospitality workplaces based on participants’ census tract of residence. Mixed‐effects models estimated associations of policies with
BP
and hypertension trajectories over 15 years of follow‐up. Fixed‐effects regression estimated associations of smoke‐free policies with within‐person changes in systolic and diastolic
BP
and hypertension. Models were adjusted for sociodemographic, health‐related, and policy/geographic covariates. Smoke‐free policies were associated with between‐person differences and within‐person changes in systolic
BP
. Participants living in areas with smoke‐free policies had lower systolic
BP
on average at the end of follow‐up compared with those in areas without policies (adjusted predicted mean differences [in mm Hg]: restaurant: −1.14 [95% confidence interval: −2.15, −0.12]; bar: −1.52 [−2.48, −0.57]; workplace: −1.41 [−2.32, −0.50]). Smoke‐free policies in restaurants and bars were associated with mean within‐person reductions in systolic
BP
of −0.85 (−1.61, −0.09) and −1.08 (−1.82, −0.34), respectively. Only restaurant policies were associated with a significant within‐person reduction in diastolic
BP
, of −0.58 (−1.15, −0.01).

Conclusions

While the magnitude of associations was small at the individual level, results suggest a potential mechanism through which reductions in secondhand smoke because of smoke‐free policies may improve population‐level cardiovascular health.
Increased Vulnerability to Atrial Fibrillation Is Associated With Increased Susceptibility to Alternans in Old Sheep
Authors: Pearman Charles M. , Madders George W.P. , Radcliffe Emma J. , Kirkwood Graeme J. , Lawless Michael , Watkins Amy , Smith Charlotte E.R. , Trafford Andrew W. , Eisner David A. , Dibb Katharine M.
Published: December 2018

Background

Atrial fibrillation (
AF
) is common in the elderly, but rare in the young; however, the changes that occur with age that promote
AF
are not fully understood. Action potential (
AP
) alternans may be involved in the initiation of
AF
. Using a translationally relevant model, we investigated whether age‐associated atrial vulnerability to
AF
was associated with susceptibility to
AP
alternans.

Methods and Results

AF
was induced in conscious young and old sheep using 50 Hz burst pacing. Old sheep were more vulnerable to
AF
. Monophasic and cellular
AP
s were recorded from the right atrium in vivo and from myocytes isolated from the left and right atrial appendages.
AP
alternans occurred at lower stimulation frequencies in old sheep than young in vivo (old, 3.0±0.1 Hz; young, 3.3±0.1 Hz;
P
<0.05) and in isolated myocytes (old, 1.6±0.1 Hz; young, 2.0±0.1 Hz;
P
<0.05). Simultaneous recordings of [Ca
2+
]
i
and membrane potential in myocytes showed that alternans of
AP
s and [Ca
2+
]
i
often occurred together. However, at low stimulation rates [Ca
2+
]
i
alternans could occur without
AP
alternans, whereas at high stimulation rates
AP
alternans could still be observed despite disabling Ca
2+
cycling using thapsigargin.

Conclusions

We have shown, for the first time in a large mammalian model, that aging is associated with increased duration of
AF
and susceptibility to
AP
alternans. We suggest that instabilities in Ca
2+
handling initiate alternans at low stimulation rates, but that
AP
restitution alone can sustain alternans at higher rates.
Long‐Term Follow‐Up of Patients With Short QT Syndrome: Clinical Profile and Outcome
Authors: El‐Battrawy Ibrahim , Besler Johanna , Liebe Volker , Schimpf Rainer , Tülümen Erol , Rudic Boris , Lang Siegfried , Wolpert Christian , Zhou Xiaobo , Akin Ibrahim , Borggrefe Martin
Published: December 2018

Background

Short
QT
syndrome (
SQTS
) is a rare inheritable disease associated with sudden cardiac death. Data on long‐term outcomes of families with SQTS are limited.

Methods and Results

Seventeen patients with
SQTS
in 7 independent families (48% men; median age, 42.4 years; corrected QT interval, 324.9±40.8 ms) were followed up for 13.5±2.5 years. A history of sudden cardiac death was documented in 71% of families. A large number of them showed sudden cardiac deaths at a younger age, with a predominance of men (67%). Five patients had syncope (29%) and 9 (53%) had atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter. An
SQTS
‐related gene was found in 76% of the patients as follows:
KCNH
2 (
SQTS
1) in 4,
CACNA
1C (
SQTS
4) in 3, and
CACN
b2 (
SQTS
5) in 6. Five patients (29%) received an implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator and 5 patients received long‐term prophylaxis with hydroquinidine. During follow‐up, 1 patient received an appropriate implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator shock attributable to ventricular fibrillation. The patient received no further implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator shocks after treatment with hydroquinidine.

Conclusions

The risk of sudden cardiac death in
SQTS
families is high. However, after appropriate risk assessment and individualized treatment options (hydroquinidine and/or implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator), the long‐term outcome is relatively benign when patients are seen at a reference center.
Gait Speed and 1‐Year Mortality Following Cardiac Surgery: A Landmark Analysis From the Society of Thoracic Surgeons Adult Cardiac Surgery Database
Authors: Afilalo Jonathan , Sharma Abhinav , Zhang Shuaiqi , Brennan J. Matthew , Edwards Fred H. , Mack Michael J. , McClurken James B. , Cleveland Joseph C. , Smith Peter K. , Shahian David M. , Peterson Eric D. , Alexander Karen P.
Published: December 2018

Background

In older adults undergoing cardiac surgery, prediction of downstream risk is critical. Our objective was to determine the association of 5‐m gait speed with 1‐year mortality and repeat hospitalization following cardiac surgery.

Methods and Results

In this prospective cohort of patients undergoing cardiac surgery at centers participating in the Society of Thoracic Surgeons Database with gait speed recorded, we examined all‐cause mortality using a landmark analysis at 0 to 30, 30 to 365, and >365 days, as well as repeat hospitalization. The cohort consisted of 8287 patients (median age, 74 years; 32% females). At 1 year, survival was 90% in the slow (<0.83 m/s), 95% in the middle (0.83–1.00 m/s), and 97% in the fast (>1.00 m/s) gait speed tertiles, and risk of hospitalization was 45%, 33%, and 27%, respectively (both
P
<0.0001). After adjustment, gait speed remained predictive of mortality (hazard ratio, 2.16 per 0.1‐m/s decrease in gait speed; 95% confidence interval, 1.59–2.93) and rehospitalization (hazard ratio, 1.71 per 0.1‐m/s decrease in gait speed; 95% confidence interval, 1.45–2.0). In a landmark analysis, the effect of slow gait speed on mortality was most marked from 30 to 365 days after surgery, where each decline in 0.1 m/s of gait speed conferred a 2‐fold increased risk of mortality.

Conclusions

Gait speed is a simple tool to screen for frailty and identify older adults at risk for adverse events in the early and midterm postoperative periods.
A Nurse‐Led Limited Risk Factor Modification Program to Address Obesity and Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Atrial Fibrillation Patients
Authors: Yaeger Amaryah , Cash Nancy R. , Parham Tara , Frankel David S. , Deo Rajat , Schaller Robert D. , Santangeli Pasquale , Nazarian Saman , Supple Gregory E. , Arkles Jeffrey , Riley Michael P. , Garcia Fermin C. , Lin David , Epstein Andrew E. , Callans David J. , Marchlinski Francis E. , Kolansky Daniel M. , Mora Jorge I. , Amaro Anastassia , Schwab Richard , Pack Allan , Dixit Sanjay
Published: December 2018

Background

Obesity and obstructive sleep apnea (
OSA
) are associated with atrial fibrillation (
AF
), yet these conditions remain inadequately treated. We report on the feasibility and efficacy of a nurse‐led risk factor modification program utilizing a pragmatic approach to address obesity and
OSA
in
AF
patients.

Methods and Results

AF
patients with obesity (body mass index ≥30 kg/m
2
) and/or the need for
OSA
management (high risk per Berlin Questionnaire or untreated
OSA
) were voluntarily enrolled for risk factor modification, which comprised patient education, lifestyle modification, coordination with specialists, and longitudinal management. Weight loss and
OSA
treatment were monitored by monthly follow‐up calls and/or continuous positive airway pressure (
CPAP
) unit downloads. Quality of life and arrhythmia symptoms were assessed with the
SF
‐36 and
AF
Severity Scale at baseline and at 6 months. From November 1, 2016 to October 31, 2017, 252 patients (age 63±11 years; 71% male; 57% paroxysmal
AF
) were enrolled, 189 for obesity and 93 for
OSA
. Obese patients who enrolled lost significantly greater percent body weight than those who declined (3% versus 0.3%;
P
<0.05). Among 93 patients enrolled for
OSA
, 70 completed sleep studies,
OSA
was confirmed in 50, and the majority (76%) started
CPAP
therapy. All components of quality of life and arrhythmia symptoms improved significantly from baseline to 6 months among enrolled patients.

Conclusions

A nurse‐led risk factor modification program is a potentially sustainable and generalizable model that can improve weight loss and
OSA
in
AF
patients, translating into improved quality of life and arrhythmia symptoms.
Necessity of Preventing Cardiovascular Disease by Smoke‐Free Policies
Authors: Kokubo Yoshihiro , Padmanabhan Sandosh
Published: December 2018

See Article by
Mayne et al
Anti‐Inflammatory Effects of a Vegan Diet Versus the American Heart Association–Recommended Diet in Coronary Artery Disease Trial
Authors: Shah Binita , Newman Jonathan D. , Woolf Kathleen , Ganguzza Lisa , Guo Yu , Allen Nicole , Zhong Judy , Fisher Edward A. , Slater James
Published: December 2018

Background

Dietary interventions may play a role in secondary cardiovascular prevention. hsCRP (High‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein) is a marker of risk for major adverse cardiovascular outcomes in coronary artery disease.

Methods and Results

The open‐label, blinded end‐point, EVADE CAD (Effects of a Vegan Versus the American Heart Association‐Recommended Diet in Coronary Artery Disease) trial randomized participants (n=100) with coronary artery disease to 8 weeks of a vegan or American Heart Association–recommended diet with provision of groceries, tools to measure dietary intake, and dietary counseling. The primary end point was high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein. A linear regression model compared end points after 8 weeks of a vegan versus American Heart Association diet and adjusted for baseline concentration of the end point. Significance levels for the primary and secondary end points were set at 0.05 and 0.0015, respectively. A vegan diet resulted in a significant 32% lower high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (β, 0.68, 95% confidence interval [0.49–0.94];
P
=0.02) when compared with the American Heart Association diet. Results were consistent after adjustment for age, race, baseline waist circumference, diabetes mellitus, and prior myocardial infarction (adjusted β, 0.67 [0.47–0.94],
P
=0.02). The degree of reduction in body mass index and waist circumference did not significantly differ between the 2 diet groups (adjusted β, 0.99 [0.97–1.00],
P
=0.10; and adjusted β, 1.00 [0.98–1.01],
P
=0.66, respectively). There were also no significant differences in markers of glycemic control between the 2 diet groups. There was a nonsignificant 13% reduction in low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol with the vegan diet when compared with the American Heart Association diet (adjusted β, 0.87 [0.78–0.97],
P
=0.01). There were no significant differences in other lipid parameters.

Conclusions

In patients with coronary artery disease on guideline‐directed medical therapy, a vegan diet may be considered to lower high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein as a risk marker of adverse outcomes.

Clinical Trial Registration

URL
:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier:
NCT
02135939.
Brain and Cognitive Mechanisms of Top–Down Attentional Control in a Multisensory World: Benefits of Electrical Neuroimaging
Authors: Matusz Pawel J. , Turoman Nora , Tivadar Ruxandra I. , Retsa Chrysa , Murray Micah M.
Published: December 2018

In real-world environments, information is typically multisensory, and objects are a primary unit of information processing. Object recognition and action necessitate attentional selection of task-relevant from among task-irrelevant objects. However, the brain and cognitive mechanisms governing these processes remain not well understood. Here, we demonstrate that attentional selection of visual objects is controlled by integrated top–down audiovisual object representations (“attentional templates”) while revealing a new brain mechanism through which they can operate. In multistimulus (visual) arrays, attentional selection of objects in humans and animal models is traditionally quantified via “the N2pc component”: spatially selective enhancements of neural processing of objects within ventral visual cortices at approximately 150–300 msec poststimulus. In our adaptation of Folk et al.'s [Folk, C. L., Remington, R. W., & Johnston, J. C. Involuntary covert orienting is contingent on attentional control settings. Journal of Experimental Psychology: Human Perception and Performance, 18, 1030–1044, 1992] spatial cueing paradigm, visual cues elicited weaker behavioral attention capture and an attenuated N2pc during audiovisual versus visual search. To provide direct evidence for the brain, and so, cognitive, mechanisms underlying top–down control in multisensory search, we analyzed global features of the electrical field at the scalp across our N2pcs. In the N2pc time window (170–270 msec), color cues elicited brain responses differing in strength and their topography. This latter finding is indicative of changes in active brain sources. Thus, in multisensory environments, attentional selection is controlled via integrated top–down object representations, and so not only by separate sensory-specific top–down feature templates (as suggested by traditional N2pc analyses). We discuss how the electrical neuroimaging approach can aid research on top–down attentional control in naturalistic, multisensory settings and on other neurocognitive functions in the growing area of real-world neuroscience.
Recognition Memory in Marmoset and Macaque Monkeys: A Comparison of Active Vision
Authors: Nummela Samuel U. , Jutras Michael J. , Wixted John T. , Buffalo Elizabeth A. , Miller Cory T.
Published: December 2018

The core functional organization of the primate brain is remarkably conserved across the order, but behavioral differences evident between species likely reflect derived modifications in the underlying neural processes. Here, we performed the first study to directly compare visual recognition memory in two primate species—rhesus macaques and marmoset monkeys—on the same visual preferential looking task as a first step toward identifying similarities and differences in this cognitive process across the primate phylogeny. Preferences in looking behavior on the task were broadly similar between the species, with greater looking times for novel images compared with repeated images as well as a similarly strong preference for faces compared with other categories. Unexpectedly, we found large behavioral differences among the two species in looking behavior independent of image familiarity. Marmosets exhibited longer looking times, with greater variability compared with macaques, regardless of image content or familiarity. Perhaps most strikingly, marmosets shifted their gaze across the images more quickly, suggesting a different behavioral strategy when viewing images. Although such differences limit the comparison of recognition memory across these closely related species, they point to interesting differences in the mechanisms underlying active vision that have significant implications for future neurobiological investigations with these two nonhuman primate species. Elucidating whether these patterns are reflective of species or broader phylogenetic differences (e.g., between New World and Old World monkeys) necessitates a broader sample of primate taxa from across the Order.
Information literacy as a measurable construct
Authors: Hollis Helena
Published: December 2018

Though definitions of Information Literacy (IL) vary, there is consensus in the literature that it is one coherent variable or measurable construct so important it has been called a human right (Sturges & Gastinger, 2010). This paper reviews existing IL measures, treating them as psychometric tests, aiming to address two questions: do existing IL tests sufficiently meet the needs of researchers and what do the tests tell us about whether or not there truly is a single variable identifiable as IL? Existing instruments for testing IL will be assessed. Only validated, freely available, testing instruments are considered. All of the current IL tests of this type are context bound to education, and are often domain-specific. These are only useful for researchers looking to assess these particular populations. However, if IL is a human right it ought to be a construct that exists across all human populations. The context and domain specificity of existing IL tests is therefore surprising; it implies that IL is something specific to higher education, not a factor in the population at large. This paper therefore argues for a need to develop validated testing instruments for IL that are context and domain independent and made freely available. The review of IL tests will benefit researchers looking to investigate IL. The broader argument of this paper aims to be of interest to a wider library and information science audience seeking to understand whether IL is indeed a coherent singular construct.
Putting levity into literacy
Authors: Marchis Bogdana
Published: December 2018

Students believe that mandatory library workshops are boring and by default so are library instruction videos, but they do not have to be so. The Stanford Libraries have created a series of professionally produced videos, which are examples of effective ways to inject levity into literacy while conveying high-level academic content. Professor and student feedback confirmed that these videos held their attention and are therefore worth the expense incurred in creating them. This paper describes an original and effective method of introducing library services to students through engaging, professionally produced videos.
Revalidation and redescription of Elachistocleis cesarii (Miranda-Ribeiro, 1920) (Anura: Microhylidae)
Authors: TOLEDO LUÍS FELIPE , LOEBMANN DANIEL , HADDAD CÉLIO F. B.
Published: December 2018

Elachistocleis cesarii (Miranda-Ribeiro, 1920), new combination, is revalidated and redescribed based on preserved specimens (syntype series) collected in the state of São Paulo. Furthermore, based on recently collected specimens, we increase the distribution of the species to the states of Minas Gerais and Goiás, Brazil. This species is found in open areas calling during the rainy season (from September to February for populations of the state of São Paulo). The advertisement call is described and some basic natural history data are provided. It distinguishes from all other species of the genus by the combination of the following characters: spotted belly, dominant frequency of the advertisement calls about 3.5 kHz, tympanum concealed, and presence of postcommisural glands. The advertisement call of Elachistocleis piauiensis, a similar species with spotted belly from the Caatinga Biome, was also described to compare it with the advertisement call of E. cesarii.
A new species of the genus Paratus Simon (Araneae: Liocranidae) from Thailand
Authors: ZAPATA LORENA V. , RAMÍREZ MARTÍN J.
Published: December 2018

The spider genus Paratus Simon, 1898 was recently revised by Marusik et al. (2008). It comprises squat spiders with a high, almost round carapace strongly narrowed in front, uniform leg length, anterior tibiae and metatarsi with several pairs of strong ventral spines and some lateral spines, and abdomen almost globular. The genus was placed with some hesitation in Liocranidae by Marusik et al. (2008), in its own subfamily, Paratinae. Only three species have been described in the genus, all known from a few samples from the type locality or nearby areas: P. reticulatus Simon, 1898 from Sri Lanka is known only from the female holotype (Deeleman-Reinhold 2001). Paratus sinensis and P. indicus, from China and India respectively, were recently described based on a few specimens of both sexes (Marusik et al. 2008). It seems that Paratus species are very rare in collections, as Deeleman-Reinhold had access to intensive samplings of spiders in regions where the genus occurs.
Another new Rock Gecko (genus Cnemaspis Strauch 1887) from Pulau Langkawi, Kedah, Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: GRISMER L. LEE , ONN CHAN KIN
Published: December 2018

A new species of forest dwelling Rock Gecko, Cnemaspis roticanai sp. nov., is described from the upper elevations of Gunung Raya, Pulau Langkawi, Kedah, Peninsular Malaysia. Cnemaspis roticanai is the second species of Cnemaspis described from Pulau Langkawi and is differentiated from all other Southeast Asian Cnemaspis in having a unique combination of color pattern and scale characteristics including keeled subtibials, ventrals, subcaudals, dorsal tubercles, and forearm scales; 25–27 paravertebral tubercles; a median row of enlarged, keeled subcaudals; five or six precloacal, pore-bearing scales in males separated medially by one or two non-pore-bearing scales; 26–29 subdigital lamellae on the fourth toe; no dark, longitudinal gular markings or blotches; no dark shoulder patch enclosing a white to yellow ocellus; and having a yellow to white, prescapular crescent. Cnemaspis roticanai is the latest species in a growing list of new taxa being discovered from the Langkawi Archipelago.
Australian species of the genus Agapetus (Trichoptera: Glossosomatidae), with descriptions of 13 new species
Authors: WELLS ALICE
Published: December 2018

The genus Agapetus Curtis (Trichoptera: Glossosomatidae) in Australia is reviewed. Among the 23 species recognised, 13 are newly described: Agapetus cannensis sp. nov., A. christineae sp. nov., A. dundungra sp. nov., A. mittamitta sp. nov., A. mossmanensis sp. nov., A. muelleri sp. nov., A. neboissi sp. nov., A. paluma sp. nov., A. paracralus sp. nov., A. sheldoni sp. nov., A. stclairae sp. nov., A. tubrabucca sp. nov., A. zwicki sp. nov. Australian species occur mainly in the streams of Tasmania and of the Great Dividing Range on the mainland. Diagnostic characteristics and the known distribution for each Australian species are discussed briefly and a key to males of Australian species is provided.
Five new species of Coniceromyia Borgmeier (Diptera: Phoridae) from the Atlantic Forest, Brazil
Authors: AMENT DANILO CESAR , DE SOUZA AMORIM DALTON
Published: December 2018

Five new species of Coniceromyia from the Atlantic Forest in Brazil are herein described– Coniceromyia apechoneura, sp. nov., C. brandaoi, sp. nov., C. diaphaniptera, sp. nov., C. franciscana, sp. nov., and C. sanctaetheresae, sp. nov. Both C. diaphaniptera and C. franciscana have patterned wings. The male foretibia provides important diagnostic features for the species, as well as additional characters to propose clades within the genus. The male hypopygial morphology is described.
A new subfamily of the Rhaphidophoridae (Orthoptera: Stenopelmatoidea), with description of a new species of the genus Anoplophilus Karny, 1931 from Korea
Authors: STOROZHENKO SERGEY YU. , PAIK JONG-CHEOL
Published: December 2018

A new subfamily Anoplophilinae Storozhenko & Paik subfam. nov. of the Rhaphodophoridae is established for two genera, Anoplophilus Karny, 1931 (type genus) and Alpinanoplophilus Ishikawa, 1993, distributed in Japan and Korea. Keys to the subfamilies of the Rhaphidophoridae and the genera of the new subfamily are provided. An annotated list of known genera and species of the Anoplophilinae is given. Anoplophilus koreanus Storozhenko & Paik sp. nov. is described from Korea.
Two new species of Dilaridae (Insecta: Neuroptera) with additional notes on Brazilian species
Authors: MACHADO RENATO JOSÉ PIRES , RAFAEL JOSÉ ALBERTINO
Published: December 2018

Herein we describe two new species of lacewing in the family Dilaridae from northeastern Brazil: Nallachius furcatus, n. sp. and N. potiguar, n. sp. We also describe range expansions for three species: N. adamsi Penny, 1982 from Manaus to the border of the states of Amazonas and Pará; N. dicolor Adams, 1970 from the state of Santa Catarina to the states of Goiás and Minas Gerais; N. limai Adams, 1970 from Santa Catarina to Paraná. An identification key to adults and a checklist of Brazilian species are presented.
A review of Rhynchortalia Crotch (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae: Ortaliinae)
Authors: POORANI J. , ŚLIPIŃSKI ADAM
Published: December 2018

The endemic Australasian genus Rhynchortalia Crotch (1874) is reviewed. Twelve species are described, keyed and illustrated, including the type species, R. insueta Crotch, and eleven new species (Rhynchortalia australis, R. viridis, R. wau, R. papuana, R. iongai, R. purpurea, R. similis, R. riedeli, R. anupama, R. iba, and R. moresby, spp. n.).
A taxonomic study of the genus Amusurgus Brunner von Wattenwyl from China (Orthoptera, Gryllidae, Trigonidiinae)
Authors: HE ZHUQING , LI KAI , FANG YAN , LIU XIANWEI
Published: December 2018

A taxonomic study of the genus Amusurgus Brunner von Wattenwyl, 1893 from China is presented. The genus is divided into three subgenera by the difference of tympana. Five species are described with two new species, one new combination, one resurrected name and one new synonymy. Keys to subgenera and species from China are given.
Eulaema (Apeulaema) felipei sp. n. (Hymenoptera: Apidae: Euglossina): a new forest-dependent orchid bee found at the brink of extinction in northeastern Brazil
Authors: NEMÉSIO ANDRÉ
Published: December 2018

Eulaema (Apeulaema) felipei sp. n., a species extremely similar to the Amazonian Eulaema (Apeulaema) mocsaryi (Friese, 1899), is described from Murici (state of Alagoas, northeastern Brazil). This species seems to be restricted to a single patch of Atlantic Forest at the ‘Estação Ecológica de Murici’. Although this preserve is supposedly protected by law, the small area (less than 3,000 ha) where this bee occurs is entirely surrounded by pastures and sugar cane plantations, and anthropic pressure is strikingly high in the region. Several other endemic animal and plant species are known from the same area. Eulaema felipei sp. n. is considered as Critically Endangered according to IUCN criteria. An updated identification key for all the species of Eulaema (Apeulaema) Moure, 1950 is also provided.
Key to species of the genus Hengchunia Vilbaste (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Deltocephalinae), and with description of a new species from China
Authors: XING JI-CHUN , DAI REN-HUAI , LI ZI-ZHONG
Published: December 2018

A new species Hengchunia hexaproducta sp. nov. is described and illustrated from China, representing the first record of the genus from the southeastern Palaearctic Region. A key is given to distinguish all species of the genus. The type specimens of the new species are deposited in the Institute of Entomology, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China (GUGC).
Taxonomic revision of the Australian Eucarpiini (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Cixiidae) with the description of nine new species
Authors: LÖCKER BIRGIT , FLETCHER MURRAY J. , GURR GEOFF M.
Published: December 2018

The Australian planthopper tribe Eucarpiini is revised taxonomically. Five genera are recognised in the Australia fauna: Bajauana Distant 1907, Dilacreon Fennah, 1980, Kirbyana Distant, 1906, Neocarpia Tsaur & Hsu, 2003 and Nesochlamys Kirkaldy, 1907. Except for Bajauana all of these represent new records for Australia. Eucarpia Walker, 1857 is declared absent from Australia. Twelve species, nine of which are new, are recognised in the Australian fauna: Bajauana acuminata, sp. nov., Dilacreon akethe, sp. nov., D. ispi, sp. nov., Neocarpia rhizophorae, sp. nov., Nesochlamys capensis, sp. nov., N. contrarius, sp. nov., N. jubatus, sp. nov., N. pandikros, sp. nov. and N. yiralli, sp. nov. Except for Bajauana austrina (Kirkaldy, 1907) and D. (D.) granulinervis, all species are endemic to Australia. Lectotypes are designated for Australoma austrina Kirkaldy, 1907, Ptoleria australis Muir, 1913 and P. granulinervis Muir, 1913. New combinations proposed are: Dilacreon (Dilacreon) granulinervis (Muir, 1913) comb. nov. (from Eucarpia), Kirbyana australis (Muir, 1913) comb. nov. (from Eucarpia) and Leptolamia praetextata comb. nov. (from Bajauana, transfer from Eucarpiini to Cixiini). All Australian species of Eucarpiini are described and illustrated and identification keys to genera and species are provided.
New species and records of Anastrepha Schiner (Diptera: Tephritidae) from Colombia
Authors: CANAL NELSON A.
Published: December 2018

Anastrepha is the most diverse and economically important genus of Tephritidae in the American tropics and many species remain undescribed. Three new species A. acuminata, A. carreroi and A. sinuosa collected from Colombia are described in this paper and six species: A.isolata, A. perdita, A. sororcula, A. montei, A. panamensis and A. lanceola are reported from Colombia for the first time. The Colombian species of Anastrepha are discussed.