bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Skin Microbiota in Contact Sports Athletes and Selection of Antiseptics for Professional Hygiene
Authors: Martykanova Dilyara S. , Davletova Nailja Ch. , Zemlenuhin Ilya A. , Volchkova Venera I. , Mugallimov Salavat M. , Ahatov Azat M. , Laikov Alexander V. , Markelova Maria I. , Boulygina Eugenia A. , Lopukhov Leonid V. , Grigoryeva Tatiana V.
Published: January 2019

Background. The aim of this study was to assess changes in skin microbiota of wrestlers during training sessions and to determine the sensitivity of hemolytic bacterial isolates to antiseptics. Methods. The main skin bacterial isolates obtained from the skin of 15 wrestlers were identified by cultivation method, with the following MALDI Biotyper and 16S rRNA gene sequencing methods. The sensitivity of hemolytic isolates to antiseptics (Veltosept-2, Cutasept F, Chlorhexidine, Miramistin, and Hydrogen Peroxide) was evaluated by measuring the size of bacterial growth inhibition zone on agar plates. Results. Opportunistic bacteria of the species Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermidis, and S. saprophyticus were the most commonly found species in skin microbiota of wrestlers before and after training sessions. Representatives of all these species mostly had a hemolytic activity. An alcohol-containing antiseptic Veltosept-2 showed the strongest inhibitory effect on the bacterial isolates of athletes’ skin microbiota most frequently detected in this study. Conclusions. The general increase in the bacterial colonization of wrestlers’ skin, as well as the presence of hemolytic forms of opportunistic bacteria in cutaneous microbiota, indicates dysbiotic changes and a decrease in the protective features of the host organism. Veltosept-2 application can reduce the incidence of skin infections in contact sports athletes with the highest efficiency.
Enhancer Domains in Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor Regulate KIT Expression and Are Targetable by BET Bromodomain Inhibition
Authors: Hemming Matthew L. , Lawlor Matthew A. , Andersen Jessica L. , Hagan Timothy , Chipashvili Otari , Scott Thomas G. , Raut Chandrajit P. , Sicinska Ewa , Armstrong Scott A. , Demetri George D. , Bradner James E.
Published: January 2019

Gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) is a mesenchymal neoplasm characterized by activating mutations in the related receptor tyrosine kinases KIT and PDGFRA. GIST relies on expression of these unamplified receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) genes through a large enhancer domain, resulting in high expression levels of the oncogene required for tumor growth. Although kinase inhibition is an effective therapy for many patients with GIST, disease progression from kinase-resistant mutations is common and no other effective classes of systemic therapy exist. In this study, we identify regulatory regions of the KIT enhancer essential for KIT gene expression and GIST cell viability. Given the dependence of GIST upon enhancer-driven expression of RTKs, we hypothesized that the enhancer domains could be therapeutically targeted by a BET bromodomain inhibitor (BBI). Treatment of GIST cells with BBIs led to cell-cycle arrest, apoptosis, and cell death, with unique sensitivity in GIST cells arising from attenuation of the KIT enhancer domain and reduced KIT gene expression. BBI treatment in KIT-dependent GIST cells produced genome-wide changes in the H3K27ac enhancer landscape and gene expression program, which was also seen with direct KIT inhibition using a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI). Combination treatment with BBI and TKI led to superior cytotoxic effects in vitro and in vivo, with BBI preventing tumor growth in TKI-resistant xenografts. Resistance to select BBI in GIST was attributable to drug efflux pumps. These results define a therapeutic vulnerability and clinical strategy for targeting oncogenic kinase dependency in GIST.

Significance:

Expression and activity of mutant KIT is essential for driving the majority of GIST neoplasms, which can be therapeutically targeted using BET bromodomain inhibitors.
Distinct Molecular Profiles and Immunotherapy Treatment Outcomes of V600E and V600K BRAF-Mutant Melanoma
Authors: Pires da Silva Inês , Wang Kevin Y.X. , Wilmott James S. , Holst Jeff , Carlino Matteo S. , Park John J. , Quek Camelia , Wongchenko Matthew , Yan Yibing , Mann Graham , Johnson Douglas B. , McQuade Jennifer L. , Rai Rajat , Kefford Richard F. , Rizos Helen , Scolyer Richard A. , Yang Jean Y.H. , Long Georgina V. , Menzies Alexander M.
Published: January 2019

Purpose:

BRAF V600E and V600K melanomas have distinct clinicopathologic features, and V600K appear to be less responsive to BRAFi±MEKi. We investigated mechanisms for this and explored whether genotype affects response to immunotherapy.

Experimental Design:

Pretreatment formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tumors from patients treated with BRAFi±MEKi underwent gene expression profiling and DNA sequencing. Molecular results were validated using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data. An independent cohort of V600E/K patients treated with anti–PD-1 immunotherapy was examined.

Results:

Baseline tissue and clinical outcome with BRAFi±MEKi were studied in 93 patients (78 V600E, 15 V600K). V600K patients had numerically less tumor regression (median, −31% vs. −52%, P = 0.154) and shorter progression-free survival (PFS; median, 5.7 vs. 7.1 months, P = 0.15) compared with V600E. V600K melanomas had lower expression of the ERK pathway feedback regulator dual-specificity phosphatase 6, confirmed with TCGA data (116 V600E, 17 V600K). Pathway analysis showed V600K had lower expression of ERK and higher expression of PI3K-AKT genes than V600E. Higher mutational load was observed in V600K, with a higher proportion of mutations in PIK3R1 and tumor-suppressor genes. In patients treated with anti–PD-1, V600K (n = 19) had superior outcomes than V600E (n = 84), including response rate (53% vs. 29%, P = 0.059), PFS (median, 19 vs. 2.7 months, P = 0.049), and overall survival (20.4 vs. 11.7 months, P = 0.081).

Conclusions:

BRAF V600K melanomas appear to benefit less from BRAFi±MEKi than V600E, potentially due to less reliance on ERK pathway activation and greater use of alternative pathways. In contrast, these melanomas have higher mutational load and respond better to immunotherapy.
Successful Endoscopic Management of Double Iatrogenic Perforations Induced by Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography and Computed Tomography-Guided Colon Drainage
Authors: Wu Ping-Hsiu , Chen Jui-Hao , Chu Kuang-En
Published: January 2019

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a high-risk procedure with a significantly high rate of complications, such as pancreatitis, bleeding, perforation, and infection. Pancreatitis is the most common post-ERCP complication with an incidence of approximately 3.5%. Although perforation is a rare complication with an incidence of 0.1–0.6%, it may be associated with a high rate of mortality of 1.0–1.5%. Here, we report a rare case of ERCP-induced double iatrogenic perforations in the duodenum and colon complicated by an intra-abdominal abscess. The post-ERCP perforation was successfully sealed using fibrin glue (Tisseel). The intra-abdominal abscess was treated with a computed tomography-guided pigtail drainage; however, the pigtail spontaneously migrated and perforated the ascending colon. The pigtail was removed, and closure of the colon perforation was successfully achieved with endoscopic clipping. Tisseel spray can be a treatment option for post-ERCP perforations. Careful consideration of procedural complications, early detection of perforations, and prompt treatment can be life-saving.
A Child with Early-Onset Gorham-Stout Disease Complicated by Chylothorax: Near-Complete Regression of Bone Lesions with Interferon and Bisphosphonate Treatment
Authors: Ramaroli Diego Alberto , Cavarzere Paolo , Cheli Maurizio , Provenzi Massimo , Barillari Marco , Rodella Giulia , Gaudino Rossella , Antoniazzi Franco
Published: January 2019

We report a case of Gorham-Stout disease (GSD) complicated by chylothorax and treated with a combination therapy with interferon and bisphosphonates. This treatment may be helpful in improving the usually unfavorable prognosis of GSD beginning with a chylothorax before 1 year of age, and in reducing bone lesions. Moreover, the use of bisphosphonates appears to be useful in treating pain.
Nutrition as a Potential Factor of Primary Dysmenorrhea: A Systematic Review of Observational Studies
Authors: Bajalan Zahra , Alimoradi Zainab , Moafi Farnoosh
Published: January 2019

Background: The incidence and severity of primary dysmenorrhea are influenced by various factors. The aim of the present study was to review nutritional factors influencing primary dysmenorrhea. Methods: Academic databases including Web of Science, EMBASE, Scopus, and PubMed (including Medline) were searched using keywords of nutrition, diet, and primary dysmenorrhea. In this study, observational studies that were published in English from 1990 to April 2018, which focused on nutritional factors affecting primary dysmenorrhea, were selected. The evaluation of studies was performed using a modified STROBE checklist with 10 items. Results: Out of 5,814 retrieved studies, 38 articles met inclusion criteria and were included for final data synthesis. The increased consumption of fruits and vegetables as the sources of vitamins and minerals, as well as fish and milk and dairy products have positive associations with less menstrual pain. Inconsistent results were reported on the consumption of other nutritional groups. Studies showed negative associations of meal skipping and following diet to lose weight with severity of dysmenorrhea. Conclusion: A few studies showed inconclusive findings due to methodological heterogeneities for assessing nutritional habits and different methods of measuring dysmenorrhea pain. Therefore, further analysis and future interventional studies with stronger methodologies are required.
Vimentin-Induced Cardiac Mesenchymal Stem Cells Proliferate in the Acute Ischemic Myocardium
Authors: Klopsch Christian , Gaebel Ralf , Lemcke Heiko , Beyer Martin , Vasudevan Praveen , Fang Hsin-Yu , Quante Michael , Vollmar Brigitte , Skorska Anna , David Robert , Steinhoff Gustav
Published: January 2019

In-depth knowledge of the mechanisms induced by early postischemic cardiac endogenous mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in the acutely ischemic heart could advance our understanding of cardiac regeneration. Herein, we aimed to identify, isolate, and initially characterize the origin, kinetics and fate of cardiac MSCs. This was facilitated by in vivo genetic cell fate mapping through green fluorescent protein (GFP) expression under the control of vimentin induction after acute myocardial infarction (MI). Following permanent ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery in CreER+ mTom/mGFP+ mice, vimentin/GFP+ cells revealed ischemia-responsive activation, survival, and local enrichment inside the peri-infarction border zone. Fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS)-isolated vimentin/GFP+ cells could be strongly expanded in vitro with clonogenic precursor formation and revealed MSC-typical cell morphology. Flow-cytometric analyses demonstrated an increase in cardiac vimentin/GFP+ cells in the ischemic heart, from a 0.6% cardiac mononuclear cell (MNC) fraction at 24 h to 1.6% at 72 h following MI. Sca-1+CD45– cells within the vimentin/GFP+ subtype of this MNC fraction increased from 35.2% at 24 h to 74.6% at 72 h after MI. The cardiac postischemic vimentin/GFP+ MNC subtype showed multipotent adipogenic, chondrogenic, and osteogenic differentiation potential, which is distinctive for MSCs. In conclusion, we demonstrated a seemingly proliferative first response of vimentin- induced cardiac endogenous MSCs in the acutely ischemic heart. Genetically, GFP-targeted in vivo cell tracking, isolation, and in vitro expansion of this cardiac MSC subtype could help to clarify their reparative status in inflammation, fibrogenesis, cell turnover, tissue homeostasis, and myocardial regeneration.
Autoimmune Cytopenias Occurring after Treatment with Chemoimmunotherapy for Non-Hodgkin Lymphomas
Authors: Oka Satoko , Nohgawa Masaharu
Published: January 2019

Autoimmune diseases, including autoimmune hemolytic anemia and immune thrombocytopenic purpura, have been described in patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) after immunochemotherapy. However, the underlying pathogenesis remains unclear. We examined NHL patients with autoimmune cytopenia and all patients were treated with rituximab-containing therapy. The present results showed reversed imbalances in helper/suppressor T-cell populations, and an immune system imbalance may have contributed to immunological abnormalities. Although the relationship between imbalances in helper/suppressor T-cell populations and the development of auto-antibody production after chemotherapies currently remains unclear, the immunosuppressive effects of immunochemotherapy may be a contributing factor. The long-term monitoring of T-cell populations after immunochemotherapies is important.
Malignant Melanoma Treated with Topical Imiquimod: A Bespoke Treatment That Spared the Amputation
Authors: Verga Emanuele , Chohan Brinder , Verdolini Roberto
Published: January 2019

Surgical excision represents the primary treatment for malignant melanoma. On occasion, however, surgery may not be possible, and a different approach is required. Imiquimod is a Toll-like receptor 7 agonist involved in the activation of the innate immune system. We report the case of a 77-year-old female with a large, invasive, malignant melanoma of the malleolar area. Due to the size of the lesion, its location, and the patient’s general condition, neither surgery nor radiotherapy were indicated. We offered topical treatment with 5% imiquimod to be applied once/day continuously over a 3-month period, pausing only when intense inflammation on the area of application occurred. Complete clinical and histological resolution of the lesion were observed. This case adds further merit to the growing body of evidence that imiquimod can be used to successfully treat malignant melanoma in cases where no other options are suitable.
Case of Gastric Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Pirzada Usman A. , Kumar Kishore , Tariq Hassan , Niazi Masooma , Makker Jasbir
Published: January 2019

The gastrointestinal (GI) tract is the predominant site of extra nodal lymphoma involvement. In the United States (US), gastric lymphoma is the most common extra nodal site of lymphoma. Most of these lesions are either extra nodal marginal zone B cell lymphoma of mucosa associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) type or diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL). We report a case of diffuse large B-Cell Gastric Lymphoma who initially presented with sore throat, dysphagia and hiccups for a few months. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy showed lower esophageal stenosis and a large, infiltrative, ulcerated, circumferential mass at the gastro esophageal junction and cardia. Histopathology showed diffuse large B cell lymphoma. Positron emission tomography scan showed advanced disease with presence of lymph nodes on both sides of the diaphragm. The patient was considered to have Stage IV gastric lymphoma. Subsequently, he was treated with R-CHOP regimen (rituximab, cyclophosphamide, hydroxydaunorubicin, oncovin (vincristine), and prednisone).
Spermine on Endothelial Extracellular Vesicles Mediates Smoking-Induced Pulmonary Hypertension Partially Through Calcium-Sensing Receptor
Authors: Zhu Liping , Xiao Rui , Zhang Xiuyun , Lang Yuheng , Liu Fangbo , Yu Zhe , Zhang Jiwei , Su Yuan , Lu Yankai , Wang Tao , Luo Shengquan , Wang Jian , Liu Ming-Lin , Dupuis Jocelyn , Jing Zhi-Cheng , Li Tong , Xiong Weining , Hu Qinghua
Published: January 2019

Objective—

This study aims to determine whether and how the enriched metabolites of endothelial extracellular vesicles (eEVs) are critical for cigarette smoke-induced direct injury of endothelial cells and the development of pulmonary hypertension, rarely explored in contrast to long-investigated mechanisms secondary to chronic hypoxemia.

Approach and Results—

Metabonomic screen of eEVs from cigarette-smoking human subjects reveals prominent elevation of spermine—a polyamine metabolite with potent agonist activity for the extracellular CaSR (calcium-sensing receptor). CaSR inhibition with the negative allosteric modulator Calhex231 or CaSR knockdown attenuates cigarette smoke-induced pulmonary hypertension in rats without emphysematous changes in lungs or chronic hypoxemia. Cigarette smoke exposure increases the generation of spermine-positive eEVs and their spermine content. Immunocytochemical staining and immunogold electron microscopy recognize the spermine enrichment not only within the cytosol but also on the outer surface of eEV membrane. The repression of spermine synthesis, the inhibitory analog of spermine, N
1
-dansyl-spermine, Calhex231, or CaSR knockdown profoundly suppresses eEV exposure-mobilized cytosolic calcium signaling, pulmonary artery constriction, and smooth muscle cell proliferation. Confocal imaging of immunohistochemical staining demonstrates the migration of spermine-positive eEVs from endothelium into smooth muscle cells in pulmonary arteries of cigarette smoke-exposed rats. The repression of spermine synthesis or CaSR knockout results in attenuated development of pulmonary hypertension induced by an intravascular administration of eEVs.

Conclusions—

Cigarette smoke enhances eEV generation with spermine enrichment at their outer surface and cytosol, which activates CaSR and subsequently causes smooth muscle cell constriction and proliferation, therefore, directly leading to the development of pulmonary hypertension.
Ponatinib Combined With Rapamycin Causes Regression of Murine Venous Malformation
Authors: Li Xian , Cai Yuqi , Goines Jillian , Pastura Patricia , Brichta Lars , Lane Adam , Le Cras Timothy D. , Boscolo Elisa
Published: January 2019

Objective—

Venous malformations (VMs) arise from developmental defects of the vasculature and are characterized by massively enlarged and tortuous venous channels. VMs grow commensurately leading to deformity, obstruction of vital structures, bleeding, and pain. Most VMs are associated with the activating mutation L914F in the endothelial cell (EC) tyrosine kinase receptor TIE2. Therapeutic options for VM are limited and ineffective while therapy with the mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitor rapamycin shows moderate efficacy. Here, we investigated novel therapeutic targets promoting VM regression.

Approach and Results—

We performed an unbiased screen of Food and Drug Administration–approved drugs in human umbilical vein ECs expressing the TIE2-L914F mutation (HUVEC-TIE2-L914F). Three ABL (Abelson) kinase inhibitors prevented cell proliferation of HUVEC-TIE2-L914F. Moreover, c-ABL, common target of these inhibitors, was highly phosphorylated in HUVEC-TIE2-L914F and VM patient–derived ECs with activating TIE2 mutations. Knockdown of
c-ABL/ARG
in HUVEC-TIE2-L914F reduced cell proliferation and vascularity of murine VM. Combination treatment with the ABL kinase inhibitor ponatinib and rapamycin caused VM regression in a xenograft model based on injection of HUVEC-TIE2-L914F. A reduced dose of this drug combination was effective in this VM murine model with minimal side effects. The drug combination was antiproliferative, enhanced cell apoptosis and vascular channel regression both in vivo and in a 3-dimensional fibrin gel assay.

Conclusions—

This is the first report of a combination therapy with ponatinib and rapamycin promoting regression of VM. Mechanistically, the drug combination enhanced AKT inhibition compared with single drug treatment and reduced PLCγ (phospholipase C) and ERK (extracellular signal-regulated kinase) activity.
Multicenter Study of the Validity of Additional Freeze Cycles for Cryoballoon Ablation in Patients With Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Miyamoto Koji , Doi Atsushi , Hasegawa Kanae , Morita Yoshiaki , Mishima Tsuyoshi , Suzuki Ippei , Kaseno Kenichi , Nakajima Kenzaburo , Kataoka Naoya , Kamakura Tsukasa , Wada Mitsuru , Yamagata Kenichiro , Ishibashi Kohei , Inoue Yuko Y. , Nagase Satoshi , Noda Takashi , Aiba Takeshi , Asakura Masanori , Izumi Chisato , Noguchi Teruo , Tada Hiroshi , Takagi Masahiko , Yasuda Satoshi , Kusano Kengo F.
Published: January 2019

Background:

Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is a cornerstone of catheter ablation in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, and balloon-based ablation has been recently performed worldwide. The second-generation cryoballoon (CB2) ablation has proven to be highly effective in achieving freedom from paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. However, there are some debatable questions, including the ideal number of freeze cycles.

Methods:

The AD-Balloon study (Multicenter Study of the Validity of Additional Freeze Cycles for Cryoballoon Ablation) was designed as a prospective, multicenter, and randomized clinical trial for investigation of the optimal strategy of freeze cycles for the CB2 ablation. One hundred and ten consecutive patients (aged 64±11 years) were randomly assigned to 2 groups after achieving a PVI by the CB2 ablation: 3-minute freeze cycles were added to each pulmonary vein (AD group: n=55) or not (non-AD group: n=55). Delayed-enhancement magnetic resonance imaging was also performed 1 to 2 months after the PVI to assess the ablation lesions.

Results:

The patient characteristics did not differ between the 2 groups. A complete PVI was achieved in all patients. The total number of freeze cycles and durations for all pulmonary veins were significantly shorter in the non-AD group than in the AD group (5.7±1.6 versus 9.1±1.6 cycles,
P
<0.0001, and 932±244 versus 1483±252 seconds,
P
<0.0001). The cumulative freedom from any atrial tachyarrhythmia at 1 year was 87.3% in the AD group and 89.1% in the non-AD group (log-rank test
P
=0.78). There was no significant difference in the frequency of gaps on the PVI lines in the delayed-enhancement magnetic resonance imaging (46% in the AD group versus 36% in the non-AD group;
P
=0.38).

Conclusions:

No benefit was found in the patients receiving additional 3-minute freeze cycles after the complete PVI with the CB2 ablation, suggesting that an insurance freeze after achieving a PVI with the CB2 may be unnecessary and time consuming.
Impact of Stent Retriever Size on Clinical and Angiographic Outcomes in the STRATIS Stroke Thrombectomy Registry
Authors: Zaidat Osama O. , Haussen Diogo C. , Hassan Ameer E. , Jadhav Ashutosh P. , Mehta Brijesh P. , Mokin Maxim , Mueller-Kronast Nils H. , Froehler Michael T.
Published: January 2019

Background and Purpose—

The safety and efficacy of mechanical thrombectomy in patients with acute ischemic stroke has been demonstrated. However, the impact of stent retriever size on clinical and angiographic outcomes is not well established.

Methods—

This was a retrospective ad hoc analysis of data from the STRATIS (Systematic Evaluation of Patients Treated With Neurothrombectomy Devices for Acute Ischemic Stroke) registry—a prospective, multicenter study of patients with large vessel occlusion treated with the Solitaire stent retriever. An independent core laboratory, blinded to clinical outcomes, reviewed all procedures and angiographic data to classify stent retriever size, targeted clot location, recanalization after each pass, and the number of stent retriever passes. The primary angiographic end point was first-pass effect (FPE) as determined by a core laboratory and defined as achieving near-complete revascularization (modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction ≥2c) after the first pass without the use of rescue therapy. Rates of modified FPE were also assessed, defined as meeting all criteria for FPE but achieving modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction ≥2b after first pass. The primary clinical end point was functional independence (modified Rankin Scale, 0–2) at 3 months as determined on-site. Outcome comparisons were made across the stent retriever size groups and adjusted for baseline characteristics.

Results—

Of 715 patients, a 4×20 stent retriever was used in 201 (28%) patients, 4×40 was used in 270 (38%) patients, and 6×30 was used in 244 (34%) patients. The 4×40 group had the highest rate of FPE (
P
=0.003 versus 6×30) and modified FPE (
P
=0.038 versus 4×20;
P
=0.0001 versus 6×30). Final revascularization was not significantly different across the groups, and there were no significant differences in functional dependence or mortality at 90 days post-procedure. Use of the longer stent retriever (4×40) was an independent predictor of achieving modified FPE (
P
=0.037 versus 6×30;
P
=0.037 versus 4×20).

Conclusions—

The longer stent retriever (4×40) demonstrated the highest rate FPE and modified FPE compared with larger diameter or shorter stent retrievers, suggesting that their routine use may improve early revascularization success.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT02239640.
AP-1 (Activated Protein-1) Transcription Factor JunD Regulates Ischemia/Reperfusion Brain Damage via IL-1β (Interleukin-1β)
Authors: Diaz-Cañestro Candela , Reiner Martin F. , Bonetti Nicole R. , Liberale Luca , Merlini Mario , Wüst Patricia , Amstalden Heidi , Briand-Schumacher Sylvie , Semerano Aurora , Giacalone Giacomo , Sessa Maria , Beer Jürg H. , Akhmedov Alexander , Lüscher Thomas F. , Camici Giovanni G.
Published: January 2019

Background and Purpose—

Inflammation is a major pathogenic component of ischemia/reperfusion brain injury, and as such, interventions aimed at inhibiting inflammatory mediators promise to be effective strategies in stroke therapy. JunD—a member of the AP-1 (activated protein-1) family of transcription factors—was recently shown to regulate inflammation by targeting IL (interleukin)-1β synthesis and macrophage activation. The purpose of the present study was to assess the role of JunD in ischemia/reperfusion-induced brain injury.

Methods—

WT (wild type) mice randomly treated with either JunD or scramble (control) siRNA were subjected to 45 minutes of transient middle cerebral artery occlusion followed by 24 hours of reperfusion. Stroke size, neurological deficit, plasma/brain cytokines, and oxidative stress determined by 4-hydroxynonenal immunofluorescence staining were evaluated 24 hours after reperfusion. Additionally, the role of IL-1β was investigated by treating JunD siRNA mice with an anti–IL-1β monoclonal antibody on reperfusion. Finally, JunD expression was assessed in peripheral blood monocytes isolated from patients with acute ischemic stroke.

Results—

In vivo JunD knockdown resulted in increased stroke size, reduced neurological function, and increased systemic inflammation, as confirmed by higher neutrophil count and lymphopenia. Brain tissue IL-1β levels were augmented in JunD siRNA mice as compared with scramble siRNA, whereas no difference was detected in IL-6, TNF-α (tumor necrosis factor-α), and 4-hydroxynonenal levels. The deleterious effects of silencing of JunD were rescued by treating mice with an anti–IL-1β antibody. In addition, JunD expression was decreased in peripheral blood monocytes of patients with acute ischemic stroke at 6 and 24 hours after onset of stroke symptoms compared with sex- and age-matched healthy controls.

Conclusions—

JunD blunts ischemia/reperfusion-induced brain injury via suppression of IL-1β.
SİYASET FELSEFESİNDE İNSANİ MÜDAHALE PROBLEMİ
Authors: KOCAOĞLU Mehmet
Published: January 2019

Aynı siyasi sınırlar içerisinde yaşayan insanlar, birbirleriyle ve toplumsal, siyasal, ekonomik kurumlarla olan ilişkilerinde sürekli olarak adil olmayan durumlarla karşılaştıkları gibi uluslararası alanda da adaletsizliklere muhatap olmaktadır. Küresel yoksulluk, iç savaş, göç, küresel ısınma insanların yüzleşmek zorunda oldukları bazı küresel sorunlardır. Son yüzyılda dünyanın farklı bölgelerinde insan haklarının yaygın bir şekilde devletler tarafından ihlal edilmesi insani müdahaleyi siyaset felsefesinde en çok tartışılan araştırma nesnelerinden birine dönüştürmüştür. Bu makalenin temel amacı, insani müdahalenin ahlaki temellerini sorgulamaktır. Bu çalışma, insan hakları ihlallerine rağmen küresel arenada ulusal egemenliğin ve ulusal çıkarın korunması adına insani müdahaleye karşı çıkan anlayışı reddederken insan haklarını ve özgürlüklerini korumaya yönelik insani müdahalenin evrensel ahlaki bir zorunluluk olduğunu savunmaktadır.
Four new crayfishes (Decapoda: Cambaridae) of the genus Orconectes from Texas
Authors: JOHNSON DANIEL P.
Published: January 2019

Four new crayfishes of the genus Orconectes from Texas are described, including Orconectes (Hespericambarus) cyanodigitus, Orconectes (Gremicambarus) castaneus, Orconectes (Buannulifictus) occidentalis and Orconectes (B.) texanus. O. cyanodigitus, of the Red River system, is most closely aligned with O. deanae and O. difficilis. It is distinguished from the former by its gonopod's much shorter, less recurved central projection; and from the latter by its much longer mesial process. O. castaneus, of a small section of the Colorado River system, is most similar to O. nais and O. palmeri longimanus. Its obliterated areola, longer gonopod processes, annulus ventralis structure and color distinguish it from the former; while its shorter gonopod processes, annulus ventralis structure, and color pattern distinguish it from the latter. O. p. longimanus, heretofore considered widely ranging in Texas, is split into three closely allied taxa, with its Texas range reduced to the Red River system and a small tributary of Trinity River; O. texanus occupying most of the remainder of east Texas, including the Sabine, Neches, Trinity, San Jacinto and Navasota basins; and O. occidentalis occupying the Colorado, Guadalupe, Medina, Frio and Nueces systems of central Texas. O. texanus is distinguished from O. p. longimanus by its gonopod's more recurved processes and more strongly tapered central projection, annulus ventralis structure and color pattern; and from O. occidentalis by its annulus ventralis configuration and color pattern. O. occidentalis is distinguished from O. p. longimanus primarily by its annulus ventralis structure and color pattern. Evidence of the extirpation of O. p. longimanus from its type locality is presented.
Phylogeny of the weevil genus Rhinusa Stephens based on adult morphological characters and host plant information (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)
Authors: CALDARA ROBERTO , SASSI DAVIDE , TOŠEVSKI IVO
Published: January 2019

A phylogenetic analysis of the species belonging to the weevil genus Rhinusa Stephens, 1829 (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Curculioninae: Mecinini) was carried out. Rhinusa weevils feed on plants of the closely related families Scrophulariaceae and Plantaginaceae. Based on a cladistic analysis of six outgroup and 33 ingroup taxa, and 39 adult morphological and 8 ecological characters, eight well supported species groups and two monobasic groups belonging to three separate and more inclusive assemblages were recognized. The first assemblage (A) includes nine species belonging to two groups (R. bipustulata and R. tetra groups), whereas the second and third assemblages (B and C) include a total of 14 species belonging to two groups (R. antirrhini and R. linariae groups) and six groups (R. pilosa, R. herbarum, R. neta, R. vestita, R. mauritii and R. melas groups), respectively. Two of the three main assemblages (A and B) are well supported as monophyletic entities, whereas the third assemblage (C) has weak support contingent in part upon the exclusion of host plant associations. Assemblage A includes all species living on species of Scrophulariaceae, with two groups occurring on two closely related plant genera, Scrophularia (R. bipustulata group) and Verbascum (R. tetra group), respectively. The other two assemblages include species living exclusively on species of the family Plantaginaceae, tribe Antirrhineae. These patterns suggest a well conserved and phylogenetically congruent association among the weevils and their hosts. Optimizing host plant preferences onto the morphological phylogeny indicates that feeding on Plantaginaceae was the plesiomorphic condition for the genus Rhinusa. In general there are no strict relationships between groups of weevils and their specific feeding habits; however, species of the R. antirrhini group are all feeding on seed capsules. In contrast, in other groups the larvae of closely related species display significant variations in host plant parasitism. Some species of the R. tetra group feed on seed capsules whereas others are stem borers. In turn, certain species of the R. neta group feed on seed capsules yet others are inquilines of gall forming species of Rhinusa. The latter habit is present in multiple convergent groups such as the R. linariae and R. pilosa groups.
Isophya sicula sp. n. (Orthoptera: Tettigonioidea), a new, morphologically cryptic bush-cricket species from the Eastern Carpathians (Romania) recognized from its peculiar male calling song
Authors: ORCI KIRILL MÁRK , SZÖVÉNYI GERGELY , NAGY BARNABÁS
Published: January 2019

The morphology and pair-forming acoustic signals of Isophya sicula sp. n., a new phaneropterine bush-cricket species from the Eastern Carpathians (Romania) is described. The species is morphologically similar to I. posthumoidalis and I. camptoxypha, but the male calling song differs clearly from the songs of those species. The male calling song is a long series of evenly repeated, very short syllables. Syllables are much shorter than in I. camptoxypha, and the song is composed from only one syllable type differently from I. posthumoidalis, where the male calling song is composed of two syllable types. Pair formation is achieved during an acoustic duet. The delay of female response (40–70 ms) is shorter than in I. camptoxypha and I. posthumoidalis. Basic descriptive statistics of sonometric and morphometric characters of the new species as well as SEM photos of the male stridulatory file and female stridulatory bristles are presented.
Magelonidae (Polychaeta) from the Arabian Peninsula: a review of known species, with notes on Magelona tinae from Thailand
Authors: MORTIMER KATE
Published: January 2019

Five species of Magelona have been previously reported from the seas surrounding the Arabian Peninsula: Magelona cornuta Wesenberg-Lund, M. obockensis Gravier, M. heteropoda Mohammed, M. pulchella Mohammed and M. papillicornis F. Müller. The type material of M. heteropoda, M. pulchella and M. obockensis are examined and redescriptions presented. Several features not recorded in the original descriptions and several corrections are made; as a result M. heteropoda is synonymised with M. obockensis. Magelona tinae is deemed to be morphologically similar to M. obockensis. Variations seen between the specimens may be caused by a disparity in their size. Further examination of specimens of a similar size are required. Specimens recorded as M. cornuta and M. papillicornis from the Red Sea (Amoureux 1983) are examined. Material originally identified as M. papillicornis is found to be M. obockensis and that identified as M. obockensis is believed to be an undescribed species. The current terminology for magelonid pouches is discussed. A key is provided for the 12 species currently known from the western Indian Ocean region.
Glyptothorax chimtuipuiensis, a new species of catfish (Teleostei: Sisoridae) from the Koladyne basin, India
Authors: ANGANTHOIBI N. , VISHWANATH W.
Published: January 2019

Glyptothorax chimtuipuiensis, a new species of sisorid catfish, is described from the Koladyne basin of Mizoram State, India. It is characterized by having a short and stout body with granulated skin; the dorsal profile anterior to the adipose fin strongly arched; a short and smooth dorsal spine, its length 5.1–8.9% SL; a pectoral-fin length of 16.8–21.9% SL, with the ventral surface of its first simple ray plaited; an adipose-fin base length 22.1–27.3% SL; and a chevron-shaped thoracic adhesive apparatus, the middle of its base concave, opening caudally with a depression at its posterior end, followed by a small fold of skin.
Onthophagus (Palaeonthophagus) medius (Kugelann, 1792)—a good western palaearctic species in the Onthophagus vacca complex (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Scarabaeinae: Onthophagini)
Authors: RÖSSNER ECKEHARD , SCHÖNFELD JOACHIM , AHRENS DIRK
Published: January 2019

Based on a morphological taxonomic revision of available species, and supported by a separate molecular phylogenetic study, we identified Onthophagus (Palaeonthophagus) medius (Kugelann, 1792) as a good western palaearctic species and a sibling species of O. vacca (Linnaeus, 1767). In this paper we diagnose and illustrate the key morphological features and distribution of both species. A neotype is designated for Copris medius Kugelann, 1792.
Four new species of Paratrizygia Tonnoir from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest (Diptera, Mycetophilidae, Sciophilinae)
Authors: OLIVEIRA SARAH SIQUEIRA , DE SOUZA AMORIM DALTON
Published: January 2019

Paratrizygia Tonnoir was originally described for P. conformis, from Australia, and since then only four species have been added to the genus, from Chile and Southern Argentina. We add four new species to the genus Paratrizygia—P. balbii sp. nov., P. alvesi sp. nov., P. camargoi sp. nov., and P. albidens sp.nov.—from the southern part of the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. Comments are made about the possible relationships of the Brazilian and other Neotropical species of the genus. An identification key to the Neotropical species of the genus is provided.
A redescription of a common euryhaline cumacean from southern Brazil: Diastylis sympterygiae Băcescu & Queiroz, 1985 (Crustacea: Cumacea)
Authors: CRISTALES PEDRO A. , ROCCATAGLIATA DANIEL , ALBERICO NATALIA A.
Published: January 2019

Diastylis sympterygiae Băcescu & Queiroz (1985) has been reported in many ecological studies conducted in the Patos Lagoon, southern Brazil. However, the original description of this species is based on damaged specimens from stomach contents of rays, and therefore insufficient for a confident identification. In the present contribution, based on a large number of well-preserved specimens now available from the type locality area, the description of this common euryhaline species is completed and its range of distribution as far north as São Paulo is extended.
Trichromothrips genus-group (Thysanoptera, Thripidae) from China, with descriptions of three new species and ten new records
Authors: LI YAJIN , LI ZHENGYUE , ZHANG HONGRUI
Published: January 2019

With the addition here of Laplothrips and Trachynotothrips, six genera of Trichromothrips genus-group are now known from China. Newly recorded from China are ten species of this group described originally from various Asian countries, together with three new species, Trichromothrips antidesmae sp.n., T. guizhouensis sp.n. and T. moundi sp.n.. The male of T. elegans is described, and a key provided to the 16 species of Trichromothrips known from China.
An Analysis of the Reliability of a New Dataset of Transmission Line Icing Thickness in Southern China
Authors: Lu Jiazheng , Li Li , Xu Xunjian , Feng Tao
Published: January 2019

Based on ERA-Interim data, gauge observations, transmission line icing observational data, and hindcasted predictors from a numerical forecast system of transmission line icing, a new transmission line icing thickness (TLIT) dataset was constructed to solve the problem of limited historical data. The reliability of the dataset was analyzed using case studies and climate data. The results showed that the descriptions of three icing events in southern China by the TLIT were consistent with the actual observational data, and the icing thickness differences were less than 2 mm. The spatial distribution of annual icing days and icing thickness calculated using meteorological observation station icing data (OIT) and the TLIT data had a similar pattern, with small differences in the numerical values. A rotated empirical orthogonal function (REOF) decomposition was conducted for 67 transmission line icing events. It was found that the spatial distributions of the first three characteristic vectors of the TLIT and OIT data were similar, and the correlation coefficients for the time coefficients of the first three characteristic vectors were 0.801, −0.443, and 0.576, respectively. Three key areas were identified based on the first three patterns of REOF, and the average icing thickness of 67 events in southern China and the three key areas was calculated. The correlation coefficients of icing thickness calculated by the TLIT and OIT data for these areas were 0.648, 0.384, 0.565, and 0.599, respectively. The results illustrate that the TLIT data can reflect the temporal and spatial variations of ice thickness in southern China.
The Empirical Dependence of Tornadogenesis on Elevation Roughness: Historical Record Analysis Using Bayes’s Law in Arkansas
Authors: Hua Zhanxiang , Chavas Daniel R.
Published: January 2019

Recent research suggests that surface elevation variability may influence tornado activity, though separating this effect from reporting biases is difficult to do in observations. Here we employ Bayes’s law to calculate the empirical joint dependence of tornado probability on population density and elevation roughness in the vicinity of Arkansas for the period 1955–2015. This approach is based purely on data, exploits elevation and population information explicitly in the vicinity of each tornado, and enables an explicit test of the dependence of results on elevation roughness length scale. A simple log-link linear regression fit to this empirical distribution yields an 11% decrease in tornado probability per 10-m increase in elevation roughness at fixed population density for large elevation roughness length scales (15–20 km). This effect increases by at least a factor of 2 moving toward smaller length scales down to 1 km. The elevation effect exhibits no time trend, while the population bias effect decreases systematically in time, consistent with the improvement of reporting practices. Results are robust across time periods and the exclusion of EF1 tornadoes and are consistent with recent county-level and gridded analyses. This work highlights the need for a deeper physical understanding of how elevation heterogeneity affects tornadogenesis and also provides the foundation for a general Bayesian tornado probability model that integrates both meteorological and nonmeteorological parameters.
A pilot study of radon levels in certified passive house buildings
Authors: McCarron Barry , Meng Xianhai , Colclough Shane
Published: January 2019

The international Passive House Standard delivers high thermal comfort based on the principles of excellent building fabric and balanced mechanical heat recovery ventilation. Considering that the typical person in industrial countries (such as the UK) spends ∼90% of their time indoors, there are surprisingly few academic studies on air quality in the home. Indoor air quality and the prevalence of overheating are attracting an increasing amount of research attention across Europe, but post occupancy monitoring of indoor radon concentrations is severely underrepresented, especially in Ireland and the UK. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas and known carcinogen that presents a potential risk to occupier health. This pilot study investigates measured radon levels in certified Passive House buildings in Northern Ireland and presents an overview of technical radon prevention design options for new builds and mitigation measures for existing buildings. Initial findings indicate that buildings built to the Passive House Standard correspond with reduced indoor radon gas concentrations.

Practical application: This Technical Note addresses an issue pertinent to the industry at this time. The growth of energy-efficient standards (such as Passive House) and common principles (such as increased airtightness levels and mechanical ventilation systems) has accelerated the need for research data on indoor radon concentrations. This research bridges the knowledge gap between the fields of indoor air quality (specifically radon), health, sustainability and the built environment.
Aneurysm of the petrous portion of the internal carotid artery at the foramen lacerum: Anatomic, imaging, and otologic findings
Authors: Palacios Enrique , Gomez Juan , Alvernia Jorge E. , Jacob Christian
Published: January 2019

Aneurysms of the petrous portion of the internal carotid artery (ICA) are rare. Their etiology is usually congenital, traumatic, or mycotic. Depending on the size and location of the aneurysm, the direction of its growth, and the specific adjacent structures involved, patients may or may not present with signs and symptoms. When signs and symptoms do manifest, they may include headaches, epistaxis, a vascular retrotympanic mass with hemotym-panum and/or otorrhagia, pulsatile tinnitus, hearing loss, vertigo, and Horner syndrome or Raeder paratrigeminal neuralgia. We describe the imaging aspects of the case of a 27–year-old man who presented with a 5-day history of unilateral symptoms secondary to a lesion located in the area of the right foramen lacerum. The lesion proved to be an aneurysm of the petrous portion of the ICA. We discuss the anatomic, imaging, and otologic aspects of ICA aneurysms in this location.
Primary Malignant Melanoma of the Trachea: Case Report
Authors: Çekin Engin , Cincik Hakan , Yilmaz Ismail , Gungor Atila
Published: January 2019

A 22-year-old man was admitted with complaints of dyspnea and hoarseness. Laryngoscopy and computed tomography of the neck revealed a 1.5 × 2-cm solid mass obstructing the trachea. The black, pedunculated mass was completely removed through a tracheal incision, and a paratracheal lymph node dissection was performed. Histopathologic examination revealed nodular-type mucosal malignant melanoma. Cranial and thoracic computed tomography, abdominal ultrasonography, and histopathologic examination of the paratracheal lymph nodes showed no metastases. No recurrence has been noted in more than 3 years of follow-up.
Verrucous Carcinoma of the Paranasal Sinuses: A Case Report
Authors: Durden Frederick L. , Moore Charles E. , Muller Susan
Published: January 2019

Verrucous carcinoma is a low-grade variant of squamous cell carcinoma reported to occur in all anatomic sites in the head and neck region, most commonly the oral cavity. The tumor grows locally invasive but is histologically benign and metastasizes rarely. To date, 22 cases of verrucous carcinoma involving the nasal cavity and/or the paranasal sinuses have been reported. We present a case of verrucous carcinoma involving the paranasal sinuses, nasal cavity, cranium, and orbit. This case highlights the difficulty of pathologic diagnosis and management options for a rare neoplastic lesion.