bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vigorous Physical Activity Is Associated with Lower Risk of Metastatic–Lethal Progression in Prostate Cancer and Hypomethylation in the CRACR2A Gene
Authors: Dai James Y. , Wang Bo , Wang Xiaoyu , Cheng Anqi , Kolb Suzanne , Stanford Janet L. , Wright Jonathan L.
Published: November 2018

Background:

There is preliminary evidence linking physical activity to better prostate cancer outcomes, though the molecular mechanisms underlying this association are not clear.

Methods:

In a Seattle-based cohort of patients diagnosed with clinically localized prostate cancer and prospective follow-up for outcomes (n = 1,354), we studied the association between self-reported vigorous physical activity and prostate cancer progression to a metastatic–lethal phenotype. A subset of patients had prostate cancer tissue samples available for investigating DNA methylation (Infinium HumanMethylation450 BeadChip array) and exercise (n = 524).

Results:

Patients who had vigorous physical activity at least once per week during the year before diagnosis (∼79% of the cohort) were significantly less likely to progress to metastatic–lethal prostate cancer compared with those who had vigorous physical activity less frequently (adjusted hazard ratio = 0.63; P = 0.029). Among the subset of men who had radical prostatectomy as primary treatment and tumor tissue available, a differentially methylated region (DMR) was identified (family-wise error rate = 0.03, hypomethylated in the weekly exercise group), with 9 methylation probes located in the promoter region of CRACR2A. This gene encodes a calcium binding protein involved in innate immune response. The methylation level of the nine CpGs was inversely correlated with CRACR2A gene expression (average correlation coefficient = –0.35).

Conclusions:

Vigorous physical activity before diagnosis is associated with epigenetic alterations of CRACR2A and prostate cancer metastatic–lethal progression.

Impact:

This analysis provides strong evidence for the association between vigorous physical activity and a less likelihood to develop metastatic–lethal progression, and a suggestive link between exercise and DNA methylation in the CRACRA2A gene.
Serum Myostatin Levels Are Higher in Fitter, More Active, and Non-Frail Long-Term Nursing Home Residents and Increase after a Physical Exercise Intervention
Authors: Arrieta Haritz , Hervás Gotzone , Rezola-Pardo Chloe , Ruiz-Litago Fátima , Iturburu Miren , Yanguas José Javier , Gil Susana María , Rodriguez-Larrad Ana , Irazusta Jon
Published: November 2018

Background: Myostatin has been proposed as a candidate biomarker for frailty and sarcopenia. However, the relationship of myostatin with these conditions remains inconclusive. Objective: To determine the association of serum myostatin concentration with body composition, physical fitness, physical activity level, and frailty in long-term nursing home residents. We also aimed to ascertain the effect of an exercise program on myostatin levels. Methods: We obtained study data on 112 participants from long-term nursing homes. Participants were randomly assigned to a control or an intervention group and performed a 6-month multicomponent exercise program. Serum myostatin levels were analyzed by ELISA. Assessments also included body composition (anthropometry and bioelectrical impedance), physical fitness (Senior Fitness Test), physical activity level (accelerometry), and frailty (Fried frailty criteria, Clinical Frailty Scale, and Tilburg frailty indicator). Results: The concentration of myostatin at baseline was positively correlated with: a leaner body composition (p < 0.05), and a higher number of steps per day and light and moderate-vigorous physical activity in women (p < 0.005); greater upper and lower limb strength, endurance, and poorer flexibility (p < 0.05) in men; and better performance (less time) in the 8-ft timed up-and-go test in both women (p < 0.01) and men (p < 0.005). We observed higher concentrations of serum myostatin in non-frail than in frail participants (p < 0.05). Additionally, we found that the implemented physical exercise intervention, which was effective to improve physical fitness, increased myostatin concentration in men (p < 0.05) but not in women. The improvements in physical condition were related with increases in serum myostatin only in men (p < 0.05–0.01). Conclusions: Higher serum levels of myostatin were found to be associated with better physical fitness. The improvements in physical fitness after the intervention were positively related to increases in myostatin concentrations in men. These results seem to rule out the idea that high serum myostatin levels are indicative of frailty in long-term nursing home residents. However, although the direction of association was opposite to that expected for the function of myostatin, the use of this protein as a biomarker for physical fitness, rather than frailty, merits further study.
What are the Risk Factors for One-Year Mortality in Older Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease? An Analysis of the Cleveland Clinic CKD Registry
Authors: Saeed Fahad , Arrigain Susana , Schold Jesse D. , Nally Jr Joseph V. , Navaneethan Sankar Dass
Published: November 2018

Background: Prognostic factors after dialysis initiation among older chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients are not well studied. In this study, we examined the risk factors associated with 1-year mortality after dialysis initiation among older CKD patients. Methods: In this retrospective study, we included 621 CKD patients from an electronic medical record based CKD registry that was linked to the United States Renal Data System data. In terms of age, they were all ≥65. We examined the associations of various demographic factors, comorbid conditions, relevant laboratory parameters, the presence of arteriovenous fistula, and inability to take care of oneself with 1-year mortality after dialysis initiation using Cox proportional hazards model. Results: In our study cohort, 224 older patients died during the first year of dialysis initiation and the estimated survival at 1 year was 65% (95% CI 62–69). After adjusting for covariates, increasing age by each year (Hazard ratio 1.04 [95% CI 1.02–1.06]), congestive heart failure (CHF; 1.57 [1.13–2.18]), an absence of AVF (3.0 [1.7–5.1]) and lack of nephrology care prior to dialysis initiation (1.93 [1.39–2.70]) were associated with increased risk of 1-year mortality. Nearly 60% of deaths were due to non-cardiovascular (CV) causes including cancer. Conclusion: Risk factors portending high 1-year mortality in older CKD patients are increasing age, CHF, an absence of AVF, and lack of pre-dialysis nephrology care. Clinicians need to be aware of non-CV risks of high mortality in these patients.
Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 in Non-Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer: Issues in Assessment Methods and Its Role as Prognostic/Predictive Marker and Putative Therapeutic Target: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Sanguedolce Francesca , Russo Davide , Mancini Vito , Selvaggio Oscar , Calò Beppe , Carrieri Giuseppe , Cormio Luigi
Published: November 2018

Although human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) plays a prognostic and predictive role in breast and gastric cancer, its function in bladder cancer (BC) is still controversial. A comprehensive review of the literature has been carried out. An electronic search of databases from PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar was implemented. The search terms were: “BC,” “bladder carcinoma,” “bladder neoplasm,” “human epidermal growth factor 2,” “HER2,” “HER-2,” “c-erbB-2,” “c-erbB2,” “erbB-2,” “erbB2,” “neu,” “marker,” “biomarker,” and “prognosis”. Results of the review consented to (a) summarize the available data on HER2 a predictor of recurrence and/or progression free survival on univariate and multivariate analysis, (b) explore the related issues in assessing HER2 status on these tumor samples, since they may severely impair its predictive function, and (c) report the state-of-the art of HER2 as a putative therapeutic target in BC and especially non-muscle invasive BC. HER2 stands out for being a prognostic factor as well as a therapeutic target in various cancers. Data from the literature concerning its use in BC provide conflicting results, probably due to the inherent complexity of BC biology. Efforts should be made to establish a suitable tumor-specific scoring system, and to assess single drugs’ efficacy in well-designed clinical trials.
Cognitive Status and Functional Dexterity as Outcome Predictors Following Urinary Diversion: A Combined Retrospective and Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Kalogirou Charis , Breshnev Svenja , Krebs Markus , Koneval Lukas , Sokolakis Ioannis , Kübler Hubert , Riedmiller Hubertus , Kocot Arkadius
Published: November 2018

Purpose: The study aimed to evaluate the impact of the validated functional dexterity test and the Mini-Mental Status test on subjective functional outcomes, medical care situation, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) after urinary diversion (UD). Patients and Methods: A total of 106 patients (n = 26 ileal conduits, n = 29 neobladders, and n = 51 ileocecal pouches) were included in this combined retrospective (n = 77) and prospective (n = 29) observational study. All patients performed the 2 tests mentioned above and filled out self-designed questionnaires with diversion and HRQoL items. In the prospective cohort, the tests were performed preoperatively and the questionnaires were filled out preoperatively as well as 3 and 6 months after surgery. Results: Reduced dexterity and cognitive skills were significantly associated with increased patient age and subjective constraints in stoma care of ileal conduits, self-catheterization in ileocecal pouches, and continence in neobladders. Overall HRQoL, however, was not affected by dexterity or cognitive measures. Conclusions: Assessing the cognitive status and functional dexterity of patients undergoing UD might provide a useful objective clinical tool to aid in decision-making regarding the type of UD and postoperative medical care situation. Further prospective data are needed to confirm these findings and further simplify the methods used here.
A Pilot Study on Daily Intensive ECT over 8 Days Improved Positive and Negative Symptoms and General Psychopathology of Patients with Treatment-Resistant Schizophrenia up to 4 Weeks after Treatment
Authors: Davarinejad Omran , Hendesi Koorosh , Shahi Hassan , Brand Serge , Khazaie Habibolah
Published: November 2018

Objective: For patients with treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS) who do not respond to drug therapy, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is often employed as an additional treatment. The aims of the present study were to investigate to what extent an 8-day daily ECT treatment might reduce symptoms of schizophrenia among patients with TRS both in the short term (end of the treatment) and medium term, that is 4 and 12 weeks after the treatment. Methods: Fourteen patients with TRS based on DSM-5 criteria took part in the present study. ECT consisted of daily sessions for 8 consecutive days. At baseline, at the end of the intervention, and 4 and 12 weeks after study completion, trained psychiatrists assessed the patients’ disease severity (positive and negative symptoms; psychopathology) and cognitive functions. Results: Disease symptoms (positive and negative symptoms; psychopathology) became reduced from baseline to the end of the intervention and to 4 weeks after treatment. Twelve weeks after the intervention symptoms again increased. Cognitive functions decreased from baseline to the end of the study and 4 weeks after treatment. However, by 12 weeks after the intervention, cognitive functions had returned to baseline levels. Conclusion: The pattern of results suggests that an intensive 8-day daily course of ECT reduced psychiatric symptoms (positive and negative symptoms, psychopathology) in both the short and medium term among patients with TRS. The increase in symptoms between 4 and 12 weeks following intervention suggests that booster sessions of ECT could be beneficial.
Off-Label Use of Phakic Intraocular Lens with a “Piggyback” Technique
Authors: Schempf Tadgh , Jung Hoon C.
Published: November 2018

Purpose: We report a case of a highly myopic pseudophakic patient who received off-label placement of a phakic intraocular lens (pIOL) via a “piggyback” technique, allowing the placement of an intraocular lens (IOL) in his fellow eye, resulting in improved visual acuity and emmetropia. Case Report: A 66-year-old, highly myopic, pseudophakic male with an IOL implant in his left eye was referred for second opinion for surgical options for his phakic right eye. Given the severe myopic status of both eyes, he received off-label placement of a posterior chamber pIOL with a piggyback technique for the pseudophakic left eye followed by standard cataract surgery and intraocular lens implantation in the right eye. For the left eye, uncorrected best visual acuity improved from 20/70 to 20/25. Conclusion: This case demonstrates the successful off-label use of a phakic IOL in a pseudophakic, highly myopic patient with a piggyback technique, resulting in improved visual acuity and ultimately allowing IOL placement in the fellow eye for emmetropia. This off-label use of pIOL can offer ophthalmologists an alternative option for pseudophakic patents with severe refractive error.
The Association of Longitudinal Serum Uric Acid and All-Cause Mortality in Incident Peritoneal Dialysis Patients
Authors: Chang Wenxiu , Zhang Wenyu , Wang Xichao , Liu Ying , Han Yingying , Tu Yangke , Uchida Shunya
Published: November 2018

Background: Time-averaged uric acid (TA-UA) value was calculated to investigate the association of longitudinal UA and all-cause mortality in incident peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. Methods: Three hundred PD patients were divided into 3 groups based on the serum TA-UA level (Group 1: < 6 mg/dL; Group 2: 6–8 mg/dL; Group 3: ≥8 mg/dL). Hazards ratio (HR) of all-cause mortality was calculated. Logistic regression was conducted to identify the associated clinical factors of lower and higher TA-UA level. Results: Increased HRs for death existed in Group 1 and Group 3 compared with Group 2 (HR 3.24, 95% CI 1.25–8.39, p = 0.016; HR 4.69, 95% CI 1.24–17.72, p = 0.023). Lower residual renal function, lower albumin, and higher high-density lipoprotein cholesterol were related to the lower serum TA-UA. Higher body mass index and higher C-reactive protein were associated with higher serum TA-UA in PD patients. Conclusion: Both TA-UA < 6 and ≥8 mg/dL increased the all-cause mortality in incident PD patients.
Integrated Transcriptome Sequencing Analysis Reveals Role of miR-138-5p/ TBL1X in Placenta from Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Ding Rong , Guo Fei , Zhang Yong , Liu Xi-Mei , Xiang Yu-Qian , Zhang Chen , Liu Zhi-Wei , Sheng Jian-Zhong , Huang He-Feng , Zhang Jun-Yu , Fan Jian-Xia
Published: November 2018

Background/Aims: The placenta has been suggested to play a crucial role in the pathology of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Placenta-specific microRNAs (miRNAs) and the corresponding targeting genes involved in the pathology of GDM still remain to be elucidated. We aimed to identify the dysregulated miRNAs and the corresponding mRNA targets through an integrated miRNA and mRNA transcriptomic profiles analysis and investigate the role of differentially expressed miR-138-5p/TBL1X in GDM. Methods: RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) was performed in 16 placentas from GDM and control group. Differentially expressed mRNAs and miRNAs in GDM were validated by quantitative PCR (qPCR). The wound healing assay and transwell migration assay were used to analyze cell migration ability. The cell proliferation was determined by CCK8 assay. Luciferase assay was used to confirm the direct binding of the targeted TBL1X with miR-138-5p. Results: Totally, 281 mRNAs and 32 miRNAs were found to be differentially expressed in the GDM placentas. The biological relationships of the miRNA/mRNA pairs were related to cellular development and function and organ morphology. Among the aberrantly expressed molecules, we selected miR-138-5p from the bioinformatics analysis and found that miR-138-5p significantly inhibited the migration and proliferation of trophoblasts (HTR-8/SVneo) by targeting the 3’-UTR of TBL1X. Furthermore, the aberrant expression of miR-138-5p and TBL1X was significantly correlated with the weight of the placenta. Conclusion: We present the first integrative analysis of miRNA and mRNA expression profiles in GDM placenta and uncover a more detailed role for miR-138-5p, as well as its target TBL1X in the pathology of GDM.
miRNA-1290 Promotes Aggressiveness in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma by Targeting IKK1
Authors: Ta Na , Huang Xiaoyi , Zheng Kailian , Zhang Yunshuo , Gao Yisha , Deng Lulu , Zhang Bingbing , Jiang Hui , Zheng Jianming
Published: November 2018

Background/Aims: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a group of non-coding RNAs that play diverse roles in pancreatic carcinogenesis. In pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), NF-kB is constitutively activated in most patients and is linked to a mutation in KRAS via IkB kinase complex 1 (IKK1, also known as IKKa). We investigated the link between PDAC aggressiveness and miR-1290. Methods: We used miRCURYTM LNA Array and in situ hybridization to investigate candidate miRNAs and validated the findings with PCR. The malignant behavior of cell lines was assessed with Cell Counting Kit-8, colony formation, and Transwell assays. A dual-luciferase reporter assay was used to evaluate the interaction between miR-1290 and IKK1. Protein expression was observed by western blotting. Results: In this study, 36 miRNAs were dysregulated in high-grade pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PanIN) and PDAC tissues compared with low-grade PanIN tissues. The area under the curve values of miR-1290 and miR-31-5p were 0.829 and 0.848, respectively (95% confidence interval, 0.722–0.936 and 0.749–0.948, both P < 0.001). There was a significant correlation between miR-1290 and histological differentiation (P = 0.029), pT stage (P = 0.006), and lymph node metastasis (P = 0.001). In addition, the in vitro work showed that miR-1290 promoted PDAC cell proliferation, invasion, and migration. Western blotting and the dual-luciferase reporter assay showed that miR-1290 promoted cancer aggressiveness by directly targeting IKK1. The synergist effect of miR-1290 on the proliferation and metastasis of PDAC cells was attenuated and enhanced by IKK1 overexpression and knockdown, respectively. Consistent with the in vitro results, a subcutaneous tumor mouse model showed that miR-1290 functioned as a potent promoter of PDAC in vivo. Conclusion: MiR-1290 may act as an oncogene by directly targeting the 3’-untranslated region of IKK1, and the miR-1290/IKK1 pathway may prove to be a novel diagnostic and therapeutic target for PDAC.
Osteogenic Effect of Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase (iNOS)-Loaded Mineralized Nanoparticles on Embryonic Stem Cells
Authors: Lee Jin-Sun , Lee Hong Jae , Lee Jae Won , Lee Sang Cheon  , Heo Jung Sun
Published: November 2018

Background/Aims: This study investigated the effect of inducible nitric oxide synthase-loaded mineralized nanoparticles (iNOS-MNPs) on the osteogenic differentiation of mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs). Methods: We prepared iNOS-MNPs using an anionic block copolymer template-mediated calcium carbonate (CaCO3) mineralization process in the presence of iNOS. iNOS-MNPs were spherical and had a narrow size distribution. iNOS was stably loaded within MNPs without denaturation. In order to confirm the successful introduction of iNOS-MNPs into the cytosol of ESCs, intracellular levels of nitric oxide (NO) was determined with a fluorometric analysis. A NO effector molecule, cyclic guanosine 3’,5’ monophosphate (cGMP) was also quantified with a competitive enzyme immunoassay. Cell viability in response to iNOS-MNP treatment was determined using the cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity assay, intracellular calcium quantification assay, and Alizarin red S staining for matrix mineralization were performed to investigate osteogenic differentiation of ESCs. The protein levels of Runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2), osteocalcin (OCN), and osterix (OSX) as osteogenic-related factors were also assessed by immunofluorescence staining and Western blot analysis. The complex pathways associated with iNOS-MNP-derived osteogenic differentiation of ESCs were evaluated by network-based analysis. Results: Cells with iNOS-MNPs displayed a significant increase in NO and cGMP concentration compared with the control group. When cells were exposed to iNOS-MNPs, there were no adverse effects on cell viability. Importantly, iNOS-MNP uptake promoted the osteogenic differentiation of ESCs. Using transcriptome profiling, we obtained 1,836 differentially-induced genes and performed functional enrichment analysis with ClueGO and KEGG. These analyses identified significantly enriched and interconnected molecular pathways such as protein kinase activity, estrogen receptor activity, bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) receptor binding, ligand-gated ion channel activity, and phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate binding. Conclusion: These findings suggest that iNOS-MNPs can induce osteogenic differentiation in ESCs by integrating complex signaling pathways.
Catestatin Enhances Neuropathic Pain Mediated by P2X4 Receptor of Dorsal Root Ganglia in a Rat Model of Chronic Constriction Injury
Authors: Deng Zeyu , Li Congcong , Du Errong , Liu Chenglong , Xia Bihan , Chen Huiyu , He Qiqing , Xu Changshui
Published: November 2018

Background/Aims: Neuropathic pain (NPP) is the consequence of a number of central nervous system injuries or diseases. Previous studies have shown that NPP is mediated by P2X4 receptors that are expressed on satellite glial cells (SGCs) of dorsal root ganglia (DRG). Catestatin (CST), a neuroendocrine multifunctional peptide, may be involved in the pathogenesis of NPP. Here, we studied the mechanism through which CST affects NPP. Methods: We made rat models of chronic constriction injury (CCI) that simulate neuropathic pain. Rat behavioral changes were estimated by measuring the degree of hyperalgesia as assessed by the mechanical withdrawal threshold (MWT) and the thermal withdrawal latency (TWL). P2X4 mRNA expression was detected by quantitative real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. P2X4 protein level and related signal pathways were assessed by western blot. Additionally, double-labeled immunofluorescence was employed to visualize the correspondence between the P2X4 receptor and glial fibrillary acidic protein. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was performed to determine the concentration of CST and inflammatory factors. Results: CST led to lower MWT and TWL and increased P2X4 mRNA and protein expression on the SGCs of model rats. Further, CST upregulated the expression of phosphor-p38 and phosphor-ERK 1/2 on the SGCs of CCI rats. However, the expression level of phosphor-JNK and phosphor-p65 did not obviously change. Conclusion: Taken together, CST might boost NPP by enhancing the sensitivity of P2X4 receptors in the DRG of rats, which would provide us a novel perspective and research direction to explore new therapeutic targets for NPP.
The Origin and Spread of Leprosy: Historical, Skeletal, and Molecular Data
Authors: Mark Samuel
Published: November 2018

East Africa and India have recently been proposed as places of origin for leprosy, based primarily on the geographical mapping of sixteen single-nucleotide polymorphism subtypes (snps). When comparing these data with historical texts, however, obstacles become apparent for both interpretations. Large population movements, a lack of divergence date ranges for some snp subtypes, and the discovery of a second strain of leprosy further complicate the geography of the disease. Dated skeletons with snp subtypes and molecular data, along with the informed collaboration of historical evidence, are key to determining the place of origin for both leprosy species.
Population genetic study in Juglans regia L. (Persian walnut) and its taxonomic status within the genus Juglans L.
Authors: MAGHSOODI MEGHDAD , SHEIDAI MASOUD , KOOHDAR FAHIMEH
Published: November 2018

Juglans regia commonly known as Persian walnut of the genus Juglans (Juglandaceae) is cultivated throughout the temperate regions of the world for its high quality wood and edible nuts. Though Persian walnut grows on 70,000 ha in Iran, we have no detailed information on genetic structure of walnut cultivars in the country. A detailed knowledge of genetic diversity and spatial genetic structure is essential for conservation and management of tree species. The species like Persian walnut, which has wide range of geographical distribution, should harbor extensive genetic variability to adapt to environmental fluctuations they face. Therefore, detailed population genetic study of local populations become important for conservation and breeding studies. The main aim of the present study was to investigate the population genetic structure of seven Persian walnut populations including 3 wild and 4 cultivated populations by using ISSR and SRAP molecular markers. We also aimed to compare the genetic variability revealed by ISSR neutral multilocus marker and nrDNA ITS sequences. Finally, we tried to investigate the species relationship within the genus Juglans L. by using molecular phylogeny methods based on nrDNA ITS sequences. The results showed that both multilocus molecular markers and ITS sequences can differentiate Persian walnut populations. The studied populations differed genetically and showed isolation by distance (IBD).
Melobasina riedeli n. sp. from Indonesia (Coleoptera: Buprestidae: Chrysochroinae)
Authors: KUBÁŇ VÍTĚZSLAV , BÍLÝ SVATOPLUK
Published: November 2018

Melobasina riedeli n. sp. from Indonesia belonging to the subtribe Nesotrinchina Bílý, Kubáň & Volkovitsh, 2009 of the tribe Poecilonotini Jakobson, 1913 (sensu Bílý et al. 2009) is described, illustrated and compared with the most similar species M. apicalis Kerremans, 1900 from Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands.
Ochthebius (Enicocerus) aguilerai sp.n. from central Spain, with a molecular phylogeny of the Western Palaearctic species of Enicocerus (Coleoptera, Hydraenidae)
Authors: RIBERA IGNACIO , CASTRO AGUSTÍN , HERNANDO CARLES
Published: November 2018

We describe Ochthebius (Enicocerus) aguilerai sp.n. from central Iberia. The species belongs to the O. exsculptus group, including O. legionensis Hebauer & Valladares, O. halbherri Reitter, O. colveranus Ferro and O. exsculptus Germar. There are few consistent differences in external morphology among species of the group, but characters of the aedeagus allow the unequivocal recognition of the new species. A molecular phylogeny of the European species of subgenus Enicocerus based on fragments of four mitochondrial and two nuclear genes recognised O. aguilerai sp.n. as sister to the remaining species of the O. exsculptus group, which according to molecular clock estimations seems to have an Iberian origin in the Late Miocene (Tortonian). There are two genetically distinct lineages within O. exsculptus, one in South Spain and a second from the Pyrenees to Ireland, but the lack of consistent morphological differences between them, and the incomplete sampling of other Iberian populations of the species, prevents the recognition of distinct taxa.
Dasytidae of the Egadi Archipelago (Coleoptera, Cleroidea) with description of Danacea hierena n. sp.
Authors: BAVIERA COSIMO , LIBERTI GIANFRANCO
Published: November 2018

Ten Dasytidae species have been found to be present in the Egadi islands, one of which—Danacea hierena n. sp.—is endemic of the whole Archipelago and is here described. Excluding the new species, no other endemic has been found and the Egadi Dasytidae fauna appears to be rather similar to the Sicilian one. Dasytes croceipes Kiesenwetter, 1866 is reported new for Sicily.
A new species of Martarega White, 1879 (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Notonectidae) from the State of Pará, Brazil, and new records for three species in Brazil
Authors: BARBOSA JULIANNA FREIRES , RIBEIRO JOSÉ RICARDO INACIO , FERREIRA-KEPPLER RUTH LEILA
Published: November 2018

Members of Martarega White are stream inhabitants and tend to be gregarious, forming large schools in deep sheltered eddies. Most of the species of Martarega are known from Neotropics, and nine of them have been reported from Brazil. Martarega oriximinaensis Barbosa, Ribeiro and Ferreira-Keppler, sp. nov. is described here from Oriximiná, Pará. This species resembles M. hungerfordi Truxal in having a sharp concavity in the hind trochanter, and a narrow median stripe in the hemelytra and teeth in the costal margin of female hemelytra; but members of M. oriximinaensis can be readily recognized by the presence of one or two groups of very cohesive, short bristles near the lateral margin of the middle trochanter and by the distinctive shape of the male claspers. In M. oriximinaensis sp. nov. the female hemelytra bear at least 30 teeth on its costal margin, whereas in M. hungerfordi the female hemelytra bear at least sixteen teeth on such costal margin. A key to the species of Martarega occurring in northern Brazil is provided. New records of M. brasiliensis Truxal and M. membranacea White from Pará State (northern Brazil) are given. Members of M. uruguayensis (Berg) are newly recorded from São Paulo State (southeastern Brazil).
Pentatomoidea (Hemiptera: Heteroptera) wrongly labelled in Gay’s “Atlas de la Historia Física y Política de Chile” (1854)
Authors: FAÚNDEZ EDUARDO I.
Published: November 2018

Some label mistakes in the “Atlas de la Historia Física y Política de Chile” of Claudio Gay (1854) are detected, explained, and corrected; the relationship of this situation and further new mistakes in the “Introducción a los insectos de Chile” of Peña (1987) are discussed.
Revision of the genus Paraclytra (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Cryptocephalinae: Clytrini), with description of P. cervenkai sp. nov. from Sultanate of Oman
Authors: BEZDĚK JAN , KANTNER FRANTIŠEK
Published: November 2018

A revision of the Afrotropical genus Paraclytra Medvedev, 1971 is presented. The type material of the most relevant taxa is examined. Paraclytra cervenkai sp. nov. from Sultanate of Oman is described, illustrated and compared with related species. Neotypes for Clythra gambiensis Lacordaire, 1848 and Clythra signata Lacordaire, 1848 are designated. Lectotypes are designated for the following taxa: Clythra notata Klug, 1835; Clytra plicatipennis Pic, 1939; Clythra rufitarsis Lacordaire, 1848; Clythra sennariensis Lacordaire, 1848 and Clytra traegaordhi Weise, 1906. Paraclytra sennariensis (Lacordaire, 1848) is raised from subspecies of P. signata to species rank and treated as species with very variable coloration. Paraclytra rufitarsis (Lacordaire, 1848) is confirmed as a synonym of P. sennariensis. The following new synonyms are proposed: Paraclytra sennariensis = Clytra plicatipennis Pic, 1939 (syn. nov.) = Clytra signata ssp. aethiopica Medvedev, 1971 (syn. nov.); Clythra notata Klug, 1835 = Clythra signata Lacordaire, 1848 (syn. nov.). Because Clythra notata Klug, 1835 is a primary junior homonym of Clythra notata Gebler, 1830, the oldest synonym Clythra signata is stated as valid for this taxon. Paraclytra gambiensis is treated as a valid species which cannot be associated with Paraclytra notata due to completely different coloration. The drawings of both male and female genitalia are presented. A key to identification and a catalogue of all known Paraclytra species are given.
Trichocateres fasciculifer, a new genus and species of Trogossitidae: Lophocaterini (Coleoptera)
Authors: KOLIBÁČ JIŘÍ
Published: November 2018

Trichocateres fasciculifer n. gen., n. sp., a new member of the tribe Lophocaterini (Trogossitidae), of very distinct appearance, is described from Assam (India) and northern Laos. The new genus is most closely related to Lophocateres Olliff, 1883 and Indopeltis Crowson, 1966. A key to the genera of Lophocaterini is provided.
A new species of Hintonelmis Spangler (Coleoptera: Elmidae: Elminae) from Central Amazonia, Brazil
Authors: FERNANDES ANDRÉ S. , PASSOS MARIA INÊS S. , HAMADA NEUSA
Published: November 2018

Hintonelmis anamariae sp. nov. is described and illustrated based on adult specimens collected in Presidente Figueiredo Municipality, Amazonas State, Brazil. This species can be distinguished from all other known Hintonelmis species by its dorsal color pattern and the morphology of the male genitalia.
A new genus and species of cockroach (Blattida: Phyloblattidae) from the Permian/Triassic boundary beds of Tunguska Basin in eastern Siberia, Russia
Authors: VRŠANSKÝ PETER
Published: November 2018

Macroscopic fossils of terrestrial animals originating directly from deposits close to the Permian/Triassic boundary are very scarce. Volcanic ash sediments in Eastern Siberia were found to hold the cockroach Sobytie tungusicum gen. et sp. n. This new taxon belongs to the predominantly Palaeozoic family Phyloblattidae, but has many advanced features characteristic of the Mesozoic family Caloblattinidae, and also of the basal Liberiblattinidae. These connections provide an indication of the origin of the family Liberiblattinidae and thus all the Mesozoic cockroach lineages from such Phyloblattidae – precursors of the Caloblattinidae.
A revision of the Central American species related to Anolis pentaprion with the resurrection of A. beckeri and the description of a new species (Squamata: Polychrotidae)
Authors: KÖHLER GUNTHER
Published: November 2018

Based on differences in coloration, morphometrics, and scalation, I recognize seven species of anoles related to Anolis pentaprion in Central America: Anolis beckeri (southeastern Mexico to northern Nicaragua), A. cristifer (Pacific lowlands of Chiapas to central Guatemala), A. fungosus (Caribbean premontane zone from central Costa Rica to western Panama), A. pentaprion (Caribbean lowlands of southern Nicaragua to northwestern Colombia, also on Pacific versant in central and eastern Panama), A. salvini (Pacific premontane and lower montane zones from central Costa Rica to western Panama), A. utilensis (restricted to Isla de Utila, Honduras), and a new species (from the Pacific lowlands of Costa Rica and western Panama) described herein. The new species differs from A. pentaprion by having a red male dewlap with few large, widely spaced gorgetal scales scattered across the dewlap (pink with purple pigment between rows of gorgetals, and with regular rows of numerous small, narrowly spaced gorgetal scales in A. pentaprion). Furthermore, I resurrect the name A. beckeri Boulenger for the pentaprion-like populations of anoles distributed from southeastern Mexico to northern Nicaragua. Anolis beckeri differs from A. pentaprion most obviously in the dorsal tail scalation (a serrated caudal crest present in A. pentaprion versus no such crest in A. beckeri) and dewlap scalation (gorgetal rows with 17–25 narrowly spaced scales in A. pentaprion versus gorgetal rows with 4–10 widely spaced scales in A. beckeri). Finally, SMF 83608 is proposed as the neotype for Anolis pentaprion. I provide standardized descriptions of A. beckeri, A. pentaprion, and the new species described herein.
A taxonomic revision of the Paramo Tapaculo Scytalopus canus Chapman (Aves: Rhinocryptidae), with description of a new subspecies from Ecuador and Peru
Authors: KRABBE NIELS , CADENA CARLOS DANIEL
Published: November 2018

The nominate subspecies of the Paramo Tapaculo (Scytalopus canus Chapman), which is restricted to high elevations of the Western Andes of Colombia, differs substantially in song from S. c. opacus from the Central Andes of Colombia, Ecuador, and northern Peru. In accordance with current taxonomy of the genus, which is primarily based on differences in song, we assign species rank to both taxa. Within opacus, birds from southernmost Ecuador and northernmost Peru sing like northern opacus but call differently. They are indistinguishable morphologically except for a white patch in the wing present in 10 out of 12 of the adult males of the southern population. We describe this population as a new taxon and rank it as a subspecies of S. opacus. Genetically, S. canus, nominate S. opacus, and the new taxon are strongly differentiated (>5% divergence in mtDNA); the first two appear to be sister taxa.
The untold story on the ecological and phylogenetic complexity of the Uruguayan reptile fauna
Authors: PINCHEIRA-DONOSO DANIEL
Published: November 2018

Differential regimes of natural selection resulting from environmental complexities are regarded as among the major factors behind processes of evolutionary radiation (Schluter 2000). Therefore, where diverse selective environments converge, diverse organisms in terms of phylogenetic and ecological richness are expected to occur. In some areas of the world, processes of diversification can take the form of geographically widespread evolutionary radiations within the same lineage, as observed for example in the emblematic lizard genus Anolis (Losos 2009). In other areas, in contrast, relatively small territories characterized by rich environmental and ecological complexities allow the existence of similarly complex assemblages formed by several different lineages under tight coexistence. A prominent case of this last scenario, although largely hidden until recently, is the reptile fauna of Uruguay. Located at the subtropical Eastern extreme of South America, Uruguay encloses countless natural elements that inspire the development of an exciting story on the wonderful outcomes of ecological interactions, and ultimately, of evolution. Carreira et al. (2005) have recently taken the challenge to tell part of this natural story. Focusing on the most fundamental outcome of ecological and evolutionary processes, namely biodiversity at different levels, Carreira et al. have come out with the first detailed scientific monograph on the reptiles of Uruguay ever published, and one of the first complete accounts of this ectotherm fauna for the country in almost a century (the only previous complete account is Devincenzi’s 1925).
Eight new spider species of the genus Pholcus (Araneae, Pholcidae) from China
Authors: TONG YANFENG , LI SHUQIANG
Published: November 2018

A total of twelve species of the genus Pholcus from China are reported, eight of which are new to science as follows: Pholcus babao sp. nov., P. chicheng sp. nov., P. datan sp. nov., P. exilis sp. nov., P. jinniu sp. nov., P. jiulong sp. nov., P. luding sp. nov. and P. wuling sp. nov. All new species are diagnosed, described and illustrated. The other four known species, P. clavatus Schenkel, 1936, P. kangding Zhang & Zhu, 2009, P. parayichengicus Zhang & Zhu, 2009 and P. qinghaiensis Song & Zhu, 1999 are also illustrated.
Rediscovery of the Liberian Nimba toad, Nimbaphrynoides liberiensis (Xavier, 1978) (Amphibia: Anura: Bufonidae), and reassessment of its taxonomic status
Authors: SANDBERGER LAURA , HILLERS ANNIKA , DOUMBIA JOSEPH , LOUA NÉMA-SOUA , BREDE CHRISTIAN , RÖDEL MARK-OLIVER
Published: November 2018

We report on the search and rediscovery of the Liberian Nimba toad, Nimbaphrynoides liberiensis, 30 years after its original description. A small surviving population could be traced in the surroundings of the type locality Mount Alpha, Liberia. The type locality was meanwhile destroyed by open cast mining. Similar to the Guinean Nimba toad, Nimbaphrynoides occidentalis, the Liberian toad lives exclusively in open, savanna like habitats above 1200 m a.s.l. The presumably few surviving individuals and the small and patchy distribution classify the Liberian toads as Critically Endangered (Stuart et al. 2008). A morphological, acoustical and genetic comparison of Liberian and Guinean populations revealed only minor, but distinct morphological (size, colour) differences. Genetically and acoustically the two taxa were indistinguishable. We therefore propose to consider the two populations as conspecific and to consider Nimbaphrynoides liberiensis (Xavier, 1978) as junior synonym of Nimbaphrynoides occidentalis (Angel, 1943). Because of the morphological differences we propose to treat the Liberian population as a subspecies of the Guinean toad and herein introduce the new name: Nimbaphrynoides occidentalis liberiensis.
Revision of the genus Indomias Marshall (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Entiminae, Tanymecini) from India
Authors: RAMAMURTHY V. V. , AYRI SHALOO
Published: November 2018

Twenty-five species of the genus Indomias Marshall (1941) (Curculionidae, Entiminae) known from India are revised. Their taxonomic characters and economic importance are discussed. The previously known species of Indomias are redescribed, while fourteen new species are also described: I. ajaykumari sp. nov., I. albizziae sp. nov., I. dubeyi sp. nov., I. kriparami sp. nov., I. maicykuttyae sp. nov., I. mangalai sp. nov., I. marshalli sp. nov., I. mayarami sp. nov., I. menoni sp. nov., I. premlali sp. nov., I. rajendrani sp. nov., I. ramakrishnani sp. nov., I. sharanagoudai sp. nov., and I. yercaudensis sp. nov.. A new species of Sympiezomias (Faust, 1887) from India, S. subserratipes sp. nov., is also described. Annotated checklists of the species of Indomias, Sympiezomias and Burmotragus (Marshall, 1941) are given. A key to the species of Indomias is provided.
Revision of the genus Hemicladus Buquet, 1857 with a special focus on the species from French Guiana (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae: Lamiinae)
Authors: Tavakilian GÉRARD LUC , TOUROULT JULIEN , DALENS PIERRE-HENRI
Published: November 2018

Hemicladus buqueti Tavakilian, Touroult & Dalens sp. n. is described from French Guiana and compared to the related species H. dejeanii Buquet, 1857, also present in French Guiana. Distributional data are presented for these two species and summarised in distribution maps. Lectotypes are designated for H. dejeanii Buquet, 1857 and H. thomsonii Buquet, 1857. H. decoratus Fuchs, 1955 is transferred to the related genus Eumimesis Bates, 1866 to give the new combination E. decoratus (Fuchs, 1955), comb. nov. An updated key to the species of Hemicladus Buquet, 1857 is presented.
A new species of Hydroscapha LeConte from northwestern Venezuela(Coleoptera: Myxophaga: Hydroscaphidae)
Authors: HALL W. EUGENE , SHORT ANDREW E. Z.
Published: November 2018

During the course of recent fieldwork on Venezuelan aquatic insects, a new species of Hydroscaphidae, Hydroscapha perijaensis Hall & Short sp. n., was discovered and is herein described, representing the first known South American species of the genus. The new species was found in association with rock seepages in both the wet and dry seasons. Locality data is provided, plus dorsal and ventral habitus images of both sexes, along with key characters separating the new taxon from other species within the genus.
Two new species of Phora Latreille (Diptera: Phoridae) from China, with a key to species
Authors: LIU GUANGCHUN , WANG BAOLIANG
Published: November 2018

Two new species, Phora rostrata and P. concava, collected in Ningxia, China are described and illustrated. In addition, P. amplifrons is reported for the first time in China and a key is provided for the Chinese species of Phora.
A rare genus Odontopsen Tsuneki in China (Hymenoptera: Apoidea: Crabronidae), with description of a new species
Authors: MA LI , LI QIANG , CHEN XUE-XIN
Published: November 2018

The genus Odontopsen Tsuneki was erected by Tsuneki (1964) as a subgenus of the genus Psen Latreille, 1796. Bohart and Menke (1976) raised it to an independent genus. The type species, O. hanedai (Tsuneki, 1964) was found in the Konsei-Pass Nikko, at about 2100 m altitude, in the mountains of central Honshu Island, Japan. No other species of this genus was found in the following almost half a century.
Sinaktassia tangi, a new Chinese Mesozoic genus and species of Aktassiidae (Odonata: Petaluroidea)
Authors: LIN QI-BIN , NEL ANDRÉ , HUANG DI-YING
Published: November 2018

Although the Petalurida make up what is probably one of the most inclusive anisopteran clades (Bybee et al., 2008; Dumont et al., 2010), fossils of this group are rarer than other taxa of dragonflies. No Cenozoic and only eight Mesozoic Petalurida have been described from Europe, Central Asia, China, and South America (Nel & Paicheler, 1992; Nel et al., 1998, 2001; Petrulevičius & Nel, 2003; Huang et al., 2006). The Aktassiidae Pritykina, 1968 is a strictly Mesozoic family divided into the two subfamilies Aktassiinae Nel et al., 1998 (Middle-Late Jurassic), and Pseudocymatophlebiinae Nel et al., 1998 (Early Cretaceous).
Identities of Tenebrio Linnaeus types at Uppsala, and the resulting changes in old darkling beetle names (Insecta: Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae). Zootaxa, 2308, 29–42. (Erratum)
Authors: FERRER J. , HOLSTON K.
Published: November 2018

Erratum
The gelechiid fauna of the southern Ural Mountains, part I: descriptions of seventeen new species (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae)
Authors: JUNNILAINEN JARI , NUPPONEN KARI
Published: November 2018

This paper is the first in a two-part series treating the family Gelechiidae from the Southern Ural Mountains, including newly described species. The material was collected during 1996–2007 on 21 different Finnish-Russian expeditions. Catatinagma Rebel, 1903, stat. rev., is removed from synonymy of Apatetris Staudinger, 1879, and is now considered valid. Two generic names are synonymized: Coloptilia Fletcher, 1940, syn. n. of Catatinagma and Chilopselaphus Mann, 1867, syn. n. of Megacraspedus Zeller, 1839. A short introduction is given for the following unrevised genera: Apatetris Staudinger, 1879, Catatinagma Rebel, 1903 comb. rev., Caulastrocecis Chrétien, 1931 and Megacraspedus Zeller, 1839. Seventeen new species are described: Catatinagma kraterella Junnilainen & Nupponen sp. n., Metanarsia guberlica Nupponen sp. n., Caulastrocecis perexigella Junnilainen sp. n., Megacraspedus litovalvellus Junnilainen sp. n., Megacraspedus multispinella Junnilainen & Nupponen sp. n., Megacraspedus orenburgensis Junnilainen & Nupponen sp. n., Megacraspedus albovenata Junnilainen sp. n., Megacraspedus longipalpella Junnilainen sp. n., Monochroa uralensis Junnilainen sp. n., Teleiodes kaitilai Junnilainen sp. n., Athrips aquila Junnilainen sp. n., Athrips bidzilyai Junnilainen sp. n., Ephysteris tenuisaccus Nupponen sp. n., Hedma karsholti Nupponen sp. n., Lutilabria prolata Junnilainen & Nupponen sp. n., Syncopacma steppicolella Junnilainen sp. n. and Helcystogramma flavescens Junnilainen sp. n.
Rhipidocotyle labroidei n. sp. (Digenea: Bucephalidae) from Labroides dimidiatus (Valenciennes) (Labridae)
Authors: JONES CONOR M. , GRUTTER ALEXANDRA S. , CRIBB THOMAS H.
Published: November 2018

Rhipidocotyle labroidei n. sp. is described from the rectum of cleaner fish, Labroides dimidiatus (Labridae), on the Great Barrier Reef. R. labroidei differs from its congeners by the combination of its small size, anteriorly directed caecum, the shape and positioning of its gonads, and by its posteriorly confined uterus. We have found Rhipidocotyle in species of Labroides from New Caledonia and Moorea that differ from the described material in the size of eggs, but these worms are not suitable for description. We suggest there are at least two species of Rhipidocotyle in Labroides spp. from the tropical Pacific.
A new Afrotropical Ogovea (Opiliones, Cyphophthalmi) from Cameroon, with a discussion on the taxonomic characters in the family Ogoveidae
Authors: GIRIBET GONZALO , PRIETO CARLOS E.
Published: November 2018

A new species of the genus Ogovea is described and illustrated, Ogovea cameroonensis n. sp. from Yaoundé. This species considerably enlarges the distribution range of the family Ogoveidae towards the Northeast. The new species, only known from its type locality in Cameroon, is the first described cyphophthalmid for that country. A new diagnosis for the family Ogoveidae is provided and a putative relationship of Ogovea with the South American genus Huitaca is rejected.