bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gastrointestinal Carcinoma with Plasmacytoid Morphology: Positivity for c-MET, Arylsulfatase, and Markers of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition, as Indicators of Aggressivity
Authors: Kovacs Zsolt , Gurzu Simona , Molnar Calin , Sincu Mihaela , Banias Laura , Satala Catalin , Jung Ioan
Published: May 2019

Background. Plasmacytoid urothelial carcinoma is a rare and aggressive histologic variant of high-grade carcinoma of the urinary bladder. Few than 250 cases have been reported in the urinary bladder till January 2019. In this paper, a case series of unusual gastrointestinal carcinomas with plasmacytoid morphology was included. Only one similar case of the stomach was previously published and no such cases were found in colon. Methods. We present the complex immunoprofile, using a panel of 39 biomarkers, of the largest group of primary gastrointestinal carcinomas with plasmacytoid morphology reported in literature (one from upper rectum and six from stomach). Results. All of the seven cases showed lymph node metastases and only one survived over 25 weeks after surgical excision. The indicators of aggressivity were age (over 60), advanced stage (from IIIA to IV), E-cadherin negativity, and vimentin positivity. The immunoprofile indicated unfavorable prognosis for mesenchymal-type carcinomas (negativity for E-cadherin and positivity for vimentin, with membrane to nuclear translocation or negativity of β-catenin). The survivor showed an “epithelial-type adenocarcinoma with plasmacytoid dedifferentiation”, with membrane positivity for E-cadherin and β-catenin and vimentin negativity. All of the cases expressed c-MET and were negative for HER-2. Conclusions. Primary carcinoma with plasmacytoid morphology is a dedifferentiated variant of adenocarcinoma or poorly cohesive carcinomas. Vimentin positive dedifferentiated-poorly cohesive carcinomas should be considered as mesenchymal-type highly malignant carcinomas. This rare histologic variant of gastrointestinal cancer might respond to anti-c-MET tyrosine kinases.
Transcriptome Analysis Reveals Significant Differences in Gene Expression of Malignant Pheochromocytoma or Paraganglioma
Authors: Suh Yong Joon , Park Jung Ho , Bilegsaikhan Sanchir-Erdene , Lee Dong Jin
Published: May 2019

Prediction of malignant behavior of pheochromocytoma (PC) or paraganglioma (PG) is of limited value. The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and the French ‘Cortico et Médullosurrénale: les Tumeurs Endocrines’ (COMETE) network in Paris (France) facilitate accurate differentiation of malignant PC/PG based on genetic information. Therefore, the objective of this transcriptome analysis is to identify the prognostic genes underlying the differentiation of malignant PC/PG in the TCGA and COMETE databases. TCGA carries data pertaining to multigenomic analysis of 173 PC/PG surgical resection samples while the COMETE cohort contains data involving 188 PC/PG surgical resection samples. Clinical information and mRNA expression datasets were downloaded from TCGA and COMETE databases. Based on eligibility criteria, 58 of 173 PC/PG samples in TCGA and 171 of 188 PC/PG samples collected by the COMETE network were selected. Using Ingenuity Pathway Analysis, the mRNA expression of malignant and benign PC/PG was compared. The 58 samples in TCGA included 11 malignant and 47 benign cases. Among the 171 samples obtained from the COMETE cohort, 19 were malignant and 152 were benign. A comparative analysis of the mRNA expression data of the two databases revealed that 11 up/downregulated pathways involved in malignant PC/PG were related to cancer signaling, metabolic alteration, and prominent mitosis, whereas 6 upregulated genes and 1 downregulated gene were significantly enriched in the functional annotation pathways. The TCGA and COMETE databases showed differences in mRNA expression associated with malignant and benign PC/PG. Improved recognition of prognostic genes facilitates the diagnosis and treatment of PC/PG.
Continuous Readout versus Titer-Based Assays of Influenza Vaccine Trials: Sensitivity, Specificity, and False Discovery Rates
Authors: Li Dongmei , Wang Jiong , Garigen Jessica , Treanor John J. , Zand Martin S.
Published: May 2019

The current gold standard for measuring antibody-based immunity to influenza viruses relies on the hemagglutinin inhibition assay (HAI), an 80-year-old technology, and the microneutralization assay (MN). Both assays use serial dilution to provide a discrete, ranked readout of 8–14 categorical titer values for each sample. In contrast to other methods of measuring vaccine antibody levels that produce a continuous readout (i.e., mPLEX-Flu and ELISA), titering methods introduce imprecision and increase false discovery rates (FDR). In this paper, we assess the degree of such statistical errors, first with simulation studies comparing continuous data with titer data in influenza vaccine study group comparison analyses and then by analyzing actual sample data from an influenza vaccine trial. Our results show the superiority of using continuous, rather than discrete, readout assays. Compared to continuous readout assays, titering assays have a lower statistical precision and a higher FDR. The results suggested that traditional titering assays could lead to increased Type-II errors in the comparison of different therapeutic arms of an influenza vaccine trial. These statistical issues are related to the mathematical nature of titer-based assays, which we examine in detail in the simulation studies. Continuous readout assays are free of this issue, and thus it is possible that comparisons of study groups could provide different results with these two methods as we have shown in our case study.
WNT4 Expression in Primary and Secondary Kidney Diseases: Dependence on Staging
Authors: Kiewisz Jolanta , Skowronska Agnieszka , Winiarska Agata , Pawlowska Anna , Kiezun Jacek , Rozicka Anna , Perkowska-Ptasinska Agnieszka , Kmiec Zbigniew , Stompor Tomasz
Published: May 2019

Background/Aims: WNT4 protein is important for kidney development. Its expression was found to be altered in experimental models of chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, the expression of the WNT4 gene has yet not been studied in human renal biopsy samples from patients with broad spectrum of glomerular disease and at different stages of CKD. Thus, the aim of the study was to assess the WNT4 gene expression in renal biopsies of 98 patients using the real-time PCR technique. Materials: In order to assess the relative amounts of mRNA, in samples of patients with manifestation of different renal diseases and separately at different stages of CKD, by QPCR, total RNA was isolated from human kidney tissues collected during renal biopsies. Results of blood and urine samples assessment were used to calculate the correlations of biochemical parameters with WNT4 gene expression in both studied groups. Results: After pathomorphological evaluation, 49 patients were selected as presenting the most common cases in the studied group. Among the patients who developed focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS; n = 13), IgA nephropathy (IgAN; n = 10), IgAN with morphological presentation of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (IgAN/FSGS; n = 8), membranous nephropathy (MN; n = 12), and lupus nephritis (LN; n = 6) were included in the analysis. We found that the level of WNT4 mRNA was higher in kidney specimens obtained from patients with MN as compared to those diagnosed with LN or IgAN. A correlation between WNT4 gene expression and serum albumin and cholesterol levels was observed in patients with FSGS, while WNT4 mRNA levels correlated with plasma sodium in patients diagnosed with LN. After consideration of 98 patients, based on the KDIGO classification of CKD, 20 patients were classified as CKD1 stage, 23 as stage 2, 13 as stage 3a, 11 as stage 3b, 13 as stage 4, and 18 as stage 5. WNT4 gene expression was lower in the CKD patients in stage 2 as compared to CKD 3a. Correlations of WNT4 mRNA level at different stages of CKD with indices of kidney function and lipid metabolism such as serum levels of HDL and LDL cholesterol, TG, urea, creatinine, sodium, and potassium were also found. Conclusions: Our results suggest that altered WNT4 gene expression in patients with different types of glomerular diseases and patients at different stages of CKD may play a role in kidney tissue disorganization as well as disease development and progression.
“Omics” Education in Dietetic Curricula: A Comparison between Two Institutions in the USA and Mexico
Authors: VanBuren Christine , Imrhan Victorine , Vijayagopal Parakat , Solis-Pérez Elizabeth , López-Cabanillas Lomelí Manuel , Gonzalez-Garza Raquel , Gutiérrez-López Myriam , González-Martinez Blanca Edelia , Boonme Kittipong , Juma Shanil , Prasad Chandan
Published: May 2019

Background/Aims: The completion of sequencing of the human genome and a better understanding of epigenomic regulation of gene expression have opened the possibility of personalized nutrition in the near future. This has also created an immediate need for trained personnel qualified to administer personalized nutrition education. Of all the allied healthcare personnel, dietitians are the most likely to undertake this role. However, dietitians and dietetic students are still deficient in their knowledge of nutrigenomics and other “omics” technologies. Therefore, with the eventual goal of dietetic curriculum reorganization, the International Society of Nutrigenetics/Nutrigenomics (ISNN) has set out to evaluate nutrigenomic knowledge among dietetic students from different countries. In this study, we compared nutrition and dietetic students from Texas Woman’s University (TWU) and the Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León (UANL) for their perceived need for, interest in, and knowledge of different topics within nutritional genomics. Methods: Students from both universities were sent an e-mail link to the survey which was located at psychdata.com. One hundred twenty-seven students completed the survey. The survey assessed the students’ knowledge of, perceived need for, and interest in different omics technologies, as well as their basic knowledge of basic nutrition and genetic topics. Differences were assessed using the χ2 test for homogeneity and Fisher’s exact test. Results: Students from TWU and UANL exhibited differences in their knowledge, desire to learn more, and perceived need for omics science in some but not all categories. Conclusions: Undergraduate nutrition students from both the USA and Mexico lack a high level of knowledge in different omics topics but recognize the role that omics will play in their future as dietitians. There were differences between the 2 universities in terms of the desire to learn more about different omics technologies and to take more classes covering different topics with nutritional genomic components. In order to make personalized nutrition a reality, future dietitians will need to become fluent in different omics technologies.
Comparison of Salt Intake in Children to that of their Parents
Authors: Cotter Jorge , Cotter Maria J. , Oliveira Pedro , Cunha Pedro , Torres Elisa , Polonia Jorge
Published: May 2019

Background: High salt intake has been related to increased blood pressure and cardiovascular events. Few studies evaluated daily salt consumption in children. Objective: To compare urinary sodium (UNa) excretion in children to that of their parents using the gold standard of 24-h collections. Methods: We prospectively collected 633 urine samples, mean UNa = 133 ± 37 mmol/day (7.7 ± 2.1 g of salt) from 326 children aged 10–15 years and 94 urine samples, mean UNa = 136 ± 45 mmol/day (8.0 ± 2.6 g of salt), from 78 parents. Comparisons between sodium intake were made by analysis of variance. Results: We paired 24-h urine samples of 65 children, UNa = 134 ± 36 mmol/day, (7.9 ± 2.3 g of salt) to 75 corresponding parents, UNa = 136 ± 45 mmol/day (8.0 ± 2.6 g of salt). Within parents, 50 were mothers, UNa = 138 ± 49 mmol/day (8.1 ± 2.9 g of salt) and 25 were fathers, UNa = 116 ± 41 mmol/day (6.8 ± 2.4 g of salt). Sodium excretion did not differ between boys vs. girls and mothers vs. fathers. Salt intake of children was not different from that of mothers (n = 50; 7.9 ± 2.3 vs. 8.1 ± 2. 8 g/24 h, p = 0.515) but higher than that of fathers (n = 25; 8.0 ± 2.3 vs. 6.8 ± 2.4 g/24 h, p < 0.05). Only 9.2% of children and 30.8% of the parents had a salt intake below 5 g/24 h. Around 60% of the children had a salt intake higher than their parents. Parental educational level was not associated with differences in salt consumption in children and parents. Overall, parents and children UNa excretion showed a moderate positive and significant correlation (r = 0.45, p = 0.001). Conclusions: In 91% of children aged 10–15 years, daily salt intake was higher than recommended. Also, children’s salt consumption was closer to that of their mothers than that of their fathers, ­possibly because of closeness in dietary habits with their mothers.
Antiphospholipid Antibodies: Cognitive and Motor Decline, Neuroimaging and Neuropathology
Authors: Arvanitakis Zoe , Capuano Ana W. , Brey Robin , Fleischman Debra A. , Arfanakis Konstantinos , Buchman Aron S. , Schneider Julie A. , Levine Steven R. , Bennett David A.
Published: May 2019

Background: Few data are available on associations of antiphospholipid (aPL) antibodies with cognitive and motor decline in aging, and cerebrovascular disease on in vivo neuroimaging and postmortem neuropathology. Methods: This longitudinal, clinical-pathologic study (aPL antibodies, brain infarcts, and cognitive and motor decline in aging), was derived from 2 ongoing community-based cohort studies. A panel of 3 aPL antibodies was assayed in serum from 956 older individuals (mean age = 81.1 years; 72% women). Serum was also tested in a subset for markers of inflammation (C-reactive protein [CRP]) and blood-brain barrier breakdown (matrix metalloproteinases, MMPs). Annual clinical evaluations documented cognitive (17 neuropsychological tests) and motor function including parkinsonism. Cerebrovascular disease data were derived from in vivo neuroimaging and postmortem neuropathologic evaluations (699 individuals). We examined associations of aPL with cognitive and motor decline, other serum markers, neuroimaging, and neuropathology. Results: Of 956 individuals, 197 (20.6%) had aPL positivity, defined as positivity on any of the assays, at the time of first measurement. During a mean follow-up of 6.6 years (SD 4), overall aPL positivity was not associated with change in global cognition (estimate = –0.005, SE 0.011; p = 0.622) or parkinsonian signs (estimate = –0.003, SE 0.017; p = 0.860). aPL were not associated with serum CRP or MMPs (both p > 0.268). aPL were not associated with in vivo brain magnetic resonance imaging white matter hyperintensities or infarcts (both p > 0.376). Among those autopsied, aPL were not associated with pathologically confirmed brain infarcts, or cerebral atherosclerosis or arteriolosclerosis (all p≥ 0.447). Conclusions: In older individuals followed longitudinally, aPL do not relate to cognitive or motor decline, inflammation, or cerebrovascular disease on in vivo neuroimaging or postmortem neuropathology.
The First Pediatric Case of Acute Generalized Exanthematous Pustulosis Caused by Hydroxychloroquine
Authors: Liccioli Giulia , Marrani Edoardo , Giani Teresa , Simonini Gabriele , Barni Simona , Mori Francesca
Published: May 2019

Introduction: Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP) is a generalized, non-follicular sterile pustular rash, categorized as a severe cutaneous adverse reaction, which usually has a favorable prognosis. In a majority of cases (90%), AGEP is drug induced and different drugs are reported as cause of AGEP. Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) is an antimalarial drug that is also used in some dermatologic and rheumatic diseases due to its immunosuppressive actions. Some cases of AGEP induced by HCQ are reported in literature but only in adults. Materials, Methods and Results: We describe the first case of AGEP caused by HCQ in a child affected by juvenile Sjögren syndrome. After withdrawal of HCQ and subsequent administration, the patient experienced the same cutaneous reaction. An allergy work-up was performed and patch test showed an ectopic flare of AGEP eruption. Conclusion: Our patient represents the first pediatric case of AGEP to HCQ, posing such a drug as a possible trigger also in children. Therefore, an accurate drug medical history is mandatory in order to rule out potential drug reactions when facing a sudden rash.
КІНЕТИЧНІ ВЛАСТИВОСТІ NO-СИНТАЗИ СПЕРМАТОЗОЇДІВ ІНФЕРТИЛЬНИХ ЧОЛОВІКІВ
Authors: Fafula R. V. , Iefremova U. P. , Оnufrovych O. K. , Vorobets N. M. , Vorobets Z. D.
Published: May 2019

Вступ. Нітроген (ІІ) оксид (NO) є високореакційноздатною молекулою, що бере участь у регуляції практично всіх біохімічних процесів і фізіологічних функцій. Роль системи NO/NO-синтаза (NOS) сперматозоїдів при чоловічій неплідності широко вивчають з метою з’ясування регуляторних механізмів, що призводять до розвитку цієї патології. Раніше було встановлено, що в неплідних чоловіків з різними формами патоспермії відбувається перерозподіл активності в системі NO-синтаз із зсувом у бік Са2+-незалежної індуцибельної ізоформи, що свідчить про дисметаболічні зміни в системі синтезу NO, зокрема про його гіперпродукування. Однак достовірно невідомо, які біохімічні механізми зумовлюють порушення функціональної активності окремих ізоформ NOS.

 Мета дослідження – вивчити кінетичні властивості окремих ізоформ NO-синтази сперматозоїдів фертильних та інфертильних чоловіків з різними формами патоспермії.

 Методи дослідження. Дослідження проводили на сперматозоїдах чоловіків, які проходили первинне обстеження у зв’язку з неплідністю. У роботі використовували критерії ВООЗ (2010) для оцінки морфологічних характеристик сперматозоїдів. Активність NOS визначали високоспецифічним методом за утворенням L-цитруліну, в кольоровій реакції з антипірином. Кінетичні властивості NOS вивчали в стандартному середовищі інкубації, модифікованому за концентрацією субстрату. Уявні кінетичні параметри, що характеризують NOS-реакцію, розраховували в координатах Лайнуївера – Берка.

 Результати й обговорення. Значення початкової максимальної активності cNOS у сперматозоїдах астенозооспермічних чоловіків в 1,5 раза (р<0,001) нижче щодо цієї величини у фертильних чоловіків з нормозооспермією. Водночас не відмічено статистично достовірної різниці у величині початкової максимальної швидкості ензиматичної реакції між нормо- та олігозооспермічними зразками. Значення уявної константи афенності cNOS до L-аргініну в сперматозоїдах інфертильних чоловіків в 1,6–2,7 раза перевищувало цей показник у сперматозоїдах чоловіків з нормозооспермією, що свідчило про зниження спорідненості ензиму до L-аргініну при патоспермії. Значення початкової максимальної швидкості NO-синтазної реакції в чоловіків з патоспермією було більшим від цього показника для cNOS в 1,7–2,3 раза.

Висновок. При олігозооспермії активність cNOS пригнічується за рахунок зростання афінності до субстрату реакції, а при астенозооспермії – в результаті як зниження спорідненості ензиму до субстрату, так і зменшення числа обертів ензиму.
ПОКАЗНИКИ ЕНЕРГЕТИЧНОГО ОБМІНУ В СЕРЦЕВІЙ ТКАНИНІ ЕКСПЕРИМЕНТАЛЬНИХ ТВАРИН ЗА УМОВ ВПЛИВУ КАДМІЙ ХЛОРИДУ
Authors: Kuras L. D. , Erstenyuk A. M.
Published: May 2019

Вступ. Катіони кадмію можуть надходити в організм людини і тварин з їжею, питною водою й атмосферним повітрям. Їх дія полягає у пригніченні функціонального стану мітохондрій, що призводить до виснаження енергетичних ресурсів та порушення ряду життєво важливих процесів. Кадмій, проникаючи в клітини, взаємодіє з меркаптогрупами, пригнічує ензимні системи енергозабезпечення шляхом заміщення двовалентних металів, які входять до складу ензимів.

Мета дослідження – з’ясувати стан енергетичного обміну в серцевому м’язі експериментальних тварин (щурів) за умов впливу кадмій хлориду.

Методи дослідження. Інтоксикацію здійснювали шляхом внутрім’язового введення кадмій хлориду в дозі 1/10 LD50 протягом 10-ти днів. Тварин було поділено на 2 групи: 1-ша – інтактні; 2-га – експериментальні, яким вводили кадмій хлорид. Забір матеріалу проводили після декапітації під тіопенталовим наркозом на 1-шу, 14-ту, 28-му доби після завершення введення токсиканту. Показники енергетичного обміну визначали таким чином: активність АТФ-ази, лактатдегідрогенази – ензиматичним методом; концентрацію глюкози – глюкооксидазним методом; рівень піровиноградної, молочної, аденозинтрифосфорної (АТФ) кислот – спектрофотометрично; вміст макро- та мікроелементів (Cd, Zn, Cu, Mg) – за допомогою атомно-абсорбційного спектрофотометра.

Результати й обговорення. Отримані результати свідчать про посилене використання глюкози серцевим м’язом за анаеробним шляхом, оскільки спостерігали підвищення концентрації молочної кислоти. Це підтвердило літературні дані про розвиток гіпоксії за умов дії іонів кадмію. Водночас відмічено зниження рівня аденозинтрифосфорної кислоти, а також активності АТФ-ази у тканині серця. Встановлено збільшення вмісту магнію (активатора АТФ-ази) та цинку (активатора лактатдегідрогенази) в серці експериментальних тварин.

Висновок. Результати проведених досліджень вказують на порушення енергетичного забезпечення тканин серцевого м’яза за умов кадмієвої інтоксикації, що підтверджується активацією анаеробного окиснення глюкози, зниженням її рівня та вмісту аденозинтрифосфорної кислоти в міокарді.
ДИНАМІКА АКТИВНОСТІ ВІЛЬНОРАДИКАЛЬНИХ ПРОЦЕСІВ ЗА УМОВ КАНЦЕРОГЕНЕЗУ, ІНДУКОВАНОГО ДИМЕТИЛГІДРАЗИН ГІДРО ХЛОРИДОМ, І ПРИ ЗАСТОСУВАННІ РЕСВЕРАТРОЛУ
Authors: Rytsyk O. B. , Fira L. S. , Lykhatskyi P. H.
Published: May 2019

Вступ. За даними ВООЗ, смертність від злоякісних новоутворень займає друге місце у світі після серцево-судинної патології. При цьому захворюваність зростає в усіх країнах, особливо у промислових регіонах та великих містах. Одним із симптомів тяжкого перебігу захворювання є активація процесів вільнорадикального окиснення в організмі, що зумовлює пошук нових ефективних методів, які можна запропонувати в загальні схеми лікування онкохворих.

Мета дослідження – оцінити активність пероксидного окиснення ліпідів та окисної модифікації протеїнів за умов раку товстої кишки, індукованого і при застосуванні ресвератролу.

Методи дослідження. Експеримент виконано на білих щурах-самцях, яким моделювали рак товстої кишки шляхом щотижневого підшкірного введення протягом 30 тижнів 1,2-диметилгідразин гідрохлориду в дозі 7,2 мг/кг маси тіла. Антиоксидант ресвератрол вводили щоденно інтрагастрально в дозі 20,0 мг/кг упродовж 7-ми місяців. Активність вільнорадикальних процесів оцінювали за вмістом ТБК-активних продуктів, нітрит-іонів та 2,4-динітрофенілгідразонів у сироватці крові й печінці експериментальних тварин.

Результати й обговорення. Після введення тваринам 1,2-диметилгідразин гідрохлориду спостерігали збільшення вмісту ТБК-активних продуктів, 2,4-динітрофенілгідразонів нейтрального та основного характеру, а також нітрит-іонів у всі терміни дослідження. На тлі щоденного застосування ресвератролу отримані результати вдвічі, а то й втричі були нижчими, ніж у групі щурів, яким вводили 1,2-диметилгідразин гідрохлорид.

Висновок. Одержані результати підтверджують антиоксидантні властивості ресвератролу, на які вказує зниження вмісту ТБК-активних продуктів та 2,4-динітрофенілгідразонів за умов індукованого раку товстої кишки. Це дасть змогу запропонувати його в загальні схеми лікування онкохворих.
RESCUE-AF in Patients Undergoing Atrial Fibrillation Ablation
Authors: Zhang Xi , Kuang Xiaohui , Gao Xiaolong , Xiang Hong , Wei Feiyu , Liu Tong , Wu Haiyan , Wang Gang , Zuo Zan , Wang Lilin , Ding Liqun , Zhang Jin , Shehata Michael , Wang Xunzhang , Yang Bing , Fan Jie
Published: May 2019

Background:

Although contact force (CF)–sensing catheters improve procedural effectiveness and safety of atrial fibrillation ablation, recent reports documented a higher incidence of atrioesophageal fistula formation relative to ablation with non–CF-sensing catheters.The present study was to assess whether restricting CF to <20 g reduced risk for esophageal injury (EI) in patients with atrial fibrillation undergoing circumferential pulmonary vein isolation.

Methods:

This prospective, single-center, randomized study enrolled 89 consecutive patients (mean age, 57.2±11.3 years; 57.3% men) with atrial fibrillation (68.5% paroxysmal and 31.5% persistent). Computed tomography angiography, transesophageal echocardiography, and esophageal endoscopy were conducted before the procedure, and a repeat esophageal endoscopy was performed after the procedure. Patients were randomized to restricted-CF group (n=44) or non-CF group (n=45), with circumferential pulmonary vein isolation using a CF-sensing (CF restricted to <20 g) or non–CF-sensing catheter, respectively. The primary end point was rate of EI post ablation.

Results:

Baseline characteristics were evenly distributed between groups, without a case of preprocedural EI. With the same power setting, similar ablation time and average measured catheter tip temperature during posterior wall ablation just opposite to the esophagus in all patients in the restricted-CF group versus non-CF groups, there were no cases versus 9 (20%) cases of EI post ablation, respectively, with similar rate of freedom from atrial tachyarrhythmias at mean 31.3±6.5 months follow-up (68.2% versus 64.4%;
P
=0.3798).

Conclusions:

Risk for EI was minimized when CF was restricted to <20 g at the posterior left atrial wall, where the circumferential pulmonary vein isolation lesion set and the course of the esophagus overlapped in all subjects.

Clinical Trial Registration

URL:
http://chictr.org.cn
. Unique identifier: 17010815.
Mitochondria Are a Subset of Extracellular Vesicles Released by Activated Monocytes and Induce Type I IFN and TNF Responses in Endothelial Cells
Authors: Puhm Florian , Afonyushkin Taras , Resch Ulrike , Obermayer Georg , Rohde Manfred , Penz Thomas , Schuster Michael , Wagner Gabriel , Rendeiro Andre F. , Melki Imene , Kaun Christoph , Wojta Johann , Bock Christoph , Jilma Bernd , Mackman Nigel , Boilard Eric , Binder Christoph J.
Published: May 2019

Rationale:

Extracellular vesicles, including microvesicles, are increasingly recognized as important mediators in cardiovascular disease. The cargo and surface proteins they carry are considered to define their biological activity, including their inflammatory properties. Monocyte to endothelial cell signaling is a prerequisite for the propagation of inflammatory responses. However, the contribution of microvesicles in this process is poorly understood.

Objective:

To elucidate the mechanisms by which microvesicles derived from activated monocytic cells exert inflammatory effects on endothelial cells.

Methods and Results:

LPS (lipopolysaccharide)-stimulated monocytic cells release free mitochondria and microvesicles with mitochondrial content as demonstrated by flow cytometry, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, Western Blot, and transmission electron microscopy. Using RNAseq analysis and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, we demonstrated that both mitochondria directly isolated from and microvesicles released by LPS-activated monocytic cells, as well as circulating microvesicles isolated from volunteers receiving low-dose LPS-injections, induce type I IFN (interferon), and TNF (tumor necrosis factor) responses in endothelial cells. Depletion of free mitochondria significantly reduced the ability of these microvesicles to induce type I IFN and TNF-dependent genes. We identified mitochondria-associated TNFα and RNA from stressed mitochondria as major inducers of these responses. Finally, we demonstrated that the proinflammatory potential of microvesicles and directly isolated mitochondria were drastically reduced when they were derived from monocytic cells with nonrespiring mitochondria or monocytic cells cultured in the presence of pyruvate or the mitochondrial reactive oxygen species scavenger MitoTEMPO.

Conclusions:

Mitochondria and mitochondria embedded in microvesicles constitute a major subset of extracellular vesicles released by activated monocytes, and their proinflammatory activity on endothelial cells is determined by the activation status of their parental cells. Thus, mitochondria may represent critical intercellular mediators in cardiovascular disease and other inflammatory settings associated with type I IFN and TNF signaling.
Three new species of Incrucipulum (Lachnaceae, Helotiales, Ascomycota) from Japan
Authors: TOCHIHARA YUKITO , HOSOYA TSUYOSHI
Published: May 2019

Three new species of Incrucipulum were described from Japan: I. foliicola and I. pseudosulphurellum on Myrica gale subsp. tomentosa and I. hakonechloae-macrae on Hakonechloa macra. Disposition to Incrucipulum was justified by molecular phylogenetic analysis based on ITS-5.8S, LSU and RPB2 regions, and monophyly of Incrucipulum was also confirmed. Some apomorphic characters of Incrucipulum were identified. By addition of three new species, the genus Incrucipulum now contains 13 species.
Allium sultanae-ismailii (Amaryllidaceae), a new species from eastern Turkey
Authors: YILDIRIM HASAN
Published: May 2019

Allium sultanae-ismailii Yıldırım (Amaryllidaceae) is described here as a new species. Diagnostic morphological characters, a full description, and detailed illustrations are given herein. A. sultanae-ismailii is restricted to Mt. Akbabaçalı in Darende district of Malatya province in eastern Anatolia, Turkey. According to its morphological features, it belongs to Allium subgen. Melanocrommyum sect. Melanocrommyum. It shows morphological similarities with A. purpureoviride, which belong to the same subgenus and section. However, it is easily distinguished from this latter species by the dark purple tepals, shorter stem, initially stellate perianth segments, longer style, undivided and very short tripartite stigma, and distribution at higher altitudes.
Australian Unionicola (Acari: Hydrachnidia: Unionicolidae), with the description of two new subgenera and eight new species
Authors: SMIT HARRY
Published: May 2019

This paper deals with Australian Unionicola species, collected from all over the continent. Two new subgenera are described, Vidrineatax new subgen. and Geikienicola new subgen., as well as eight new species: U. (Kovietstax) crassiseta n. sp., U. (Downesatax) curvipalpis n. sp., U. (Geikienicola) insolita n. sp., U. (Downesatax) latiseta n.sp., U. (Downesatax) longipalpis n. sp., U. (Vidrineatax) pilosa n. sp., U. (Giselatax) trisetica n. sp. and U. (Giselatax) uncatiseta n. sp. The subgenus Smithatax is synonymised under the subgenus Downesatax. Thus 11 of the now 56 subgenera in the genus Unionicola are known from Australia. Furthermore, the first description is given of the female of U. flabelliseta Cook. Additional data are provided for U. cirrosa Koenike. Many new records are presented, especially for the Northern Territory and Western Australia.
A new peculiar frog species of the genus Pristimantis from Yanachaga-Chemillen National Park, Peru
Authors: BOANO GIOVANNI , MAZZOTTI STEFANO , SINDACO ROBERTO
Published: May 2019

We describe a new species of frog, Pristimantis leucorrhinus sp. nov., from the Cordillera Yanachaga, YanachagaChemillén National Park, on the eastern slopes of the Andes in Central Peru. The new species belongs to the P. unistrigatus group and is characterized by the absence of a tympanum, the presence of horn-like tubercles on upper eyelids and a characteristic colour pattern.
First records of the giant barnacles, Austromegabalanus nigrescens (Lamarck, 1818) and A. psittacus (Molina, 1782) (Cirripedia: Balanidae) from New Zealand, with a key to New Zealand Balanidae
Authors: HOSIE ANDREW , AHYONG SHANE T.
Published: May 2019

The shallow water barnacles, Austromegabalanus nigrescens and A. psittacus, are reported from New Zealand waters for the first time. Moreover, these are the first known introductions of Austromegabalanus. Nearly 70 specimens of A. nigrescens were collected from the Taharoa Ironsands Terminal and a single conjoined group of A. psittacus was collected in Port Wellington. We also report A. nigrescens from North West Cape, the northernmost record for the species in Western Australia. A key to the Balanidae known from New Zealand is provided.
The female of Xysticus pseudorectilineus (Wunderlich, 1995) (Araneae: Thomisidae) from Turkey
Authors: DEMIR HAKAN , AKTAS METIN , SEYYAR OSMAN
Published: May 2019

The genus Xysticus C. L. Koch, 1835 is represented by many taxa (156 species and 24 subspecies) in the Pale-arctic region (Platnick 2007). Xysticus pseudorectilineus, described by Wunderlich from Adana province (Kadirli district, Tuzla), is one of 36 species of this genus that have been recorded from Turkey (Topçu et al. 2005; Logunov & Demir 2006; Logunov 2006; Demir et al. 2006). This species was previously known only from a single male from the type locality (Wunderlich 1995). Xysticus pseudorectilineus is here redescribed based on 40 specimens of both sexes that were found in the different parts of Anatolia (Fig. 8). It has found to be common under stones. The male is adult in autumn, while adult females can be found in spring and autumn.
The Tachytrechus alatus species group (= Syntomoneurum Becker) revisited: new species and revised species group limits (Diptera: Dolichopodidae)
Authors: BROOKS SCOTT E. , CUMMING JEFFREY M.
Published: May 2019

The Tachytrechus alatus species group is revised. The species group is defined within the genus Tachytrechus on the basis of possession of a strong basiventral bristle on the fore femur and very reduced pulvilli on the midand hindlegs of both sexes. Males also possess a strongly reduced vertical bristle, and a cluster of 2–3 strong bristles on both the fore femur and mid coxa. The T. alatus species group is now known from southern Mexico, Central and South America and comprises eight Neotropical species including three new species: Tachytrechus alatus (Becker), Tachytrechus analis (Parent), Tachytrechus costaricensis Brooks sp. nov., Tachytrechus dios Brooks sp. nov., Tachytrechus giganteus (Brooks), Tachytrechus peruicus Yang & Zhang, Tachytrechus transversus (Van Duzee) and Tachytrechus zumbadoi Brooks sp. nov. A revised key to species is provided, as well as remarks on the phylogeny and zoogeography of the group.
Urytalpa chandleri sp. n. (Diptera: Keroplatidae) from Turkey, with a key to the Western Palaearctic species of the genus
Authors: BECHEV DIMTAR , KOÇ HASAN
Published: May 2019

Urytalpa chandleri sp. n. from southwest Asiatic Turkey is described and illustrated. Platyura maritima Becker is transferred to Urytalpa based on examination of the type specimen. A key to the Western Palaearctic species of Urytalpa is provided.
A new species of Cnodalomyia Hull, 1962 (Diptera, Asilidae, Asilinae) from Brazil
Authors: LAMAS CARLOS JOSÉ EINICKER , MELLINGER GABRIELA BASTOS
Published: May 2019

The robber fly genus Cnodalomyia Hull, 1962 is a monotypic member of the Asilinae. The type species, C. obtusa Hull, is endemic to Itatiaia, State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. A new species, Cnodalomyia catarinensis sp. nov. from southern states of Brazil (Santa Catarina, Paraná and São Paulo) is herein described and illustrated. Both species are restricted to highland areas of the Atlantic Forest. An identification key to the species is also presented.
A new species of the genus Plumaroides Brothers (Hymenoptera: Chrysidoidea, Plumariidae) from Argentina
Authors: DIEZ PATRICIA , ROIG-ALSINA ARTURO
Published: May 2019

New records of the distribution of P. andalgalensis Brothers and the description and illustration of the new species P. brothersi from San Juan and La Rioja provinces of Argentina are provided. The relationships of the two species of the genus Plumaroides Brothers are also discussed.
Redescription of the monotypic genus Volkeliopsis Poppius (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Miridae: Bryocorinae)
Authors: SADOWSKA-WODA IZABELA , CHÉROT FRÉDÉRIC
Published: May 2019

The monotypic genus Volkeliopsis POPPIUS and its type species Volkeliopsis frontalis are redescribed. The male genital structures are described for the first time.
Polytene chromosomes of Simulium (Psaroniocompsa) daltanhani (Diptera: Simuliidae) from Central Amazonia, Brazil
Authors: HAMADA NEUSA , DA SILVA PEREIRA ELENY , ADLER PETER H.
Published: May 2019

Last-instar larvae of Simulium (Psaroniocompsa) daltanhani Hamada and Adler from a stream in Central Amazonia were analyzed cytologically by mapping their polytene chromosomes. Simulium daltanhani has the nucleolar organizer in the short arm of chromosome I, heterogametic females, and an absence of autosomal polymorphisms. The chromosomes carry multiple rearrangements relative to other analyzed members of the S. quadrifidum species group in the subgenus Psaroniocompsa. One-third of the chromosomal complement is rearranged relative to the sequence of S. ulyssesi, the species with the most similar banding pattern among studied members of the S. quadrifidum group.
Revised checklist of the tiger moths of the Continental United States and Canada
Authors: SCHMIDT B. CHRISTIAN , OPLER PAUL A.
Published: May 2019

The checklist of the Arctiinae (generally treated as the Arctiidae previously) of the continental United States and Canada is revised, incorporating a number of corrections and changes to publication dates and nomenclature as presented in the recent checklist of Ferguson and Opler (2006). Clemensia patella (Druce) is revised to synonomy under Clemensia albata Packard, Holoarctia sordida (McDunnough) is raised from synonomy under H. cervini (Fallou), and Arachnis apachea Clarke is transferred from synonomy under Arachnis verna Barnes & McDunnough to Arachnis citra Neumögen & Dyar. Palearctia Ferguson is synonomized under Holarctia M. E. Smith. The North American taxa previously treated as the tribe Arctiini are segregated into the subtribes Arctiina and Spilosomina. The genera Kodiosoma Stretch and Euerythra Harvey, previously treated as Arctiini, are transferred to the subtribe Phaegopterina.
Revision of the alderfly genus Indosialis Lestage (Megaloptera: Sialidae)
Authors: LIU XINGYUE , FLINT OLIVER. JR S. , YANG DING
Published: May 2019

Indosialis Lestage is a small Asian genus of alderflies. Herein, we describe a new species, I. indicus, and revise the three species in the genus. A key to males and a discussion of the phylogeny and biogeography of the genus is provided.
Nesidiorchestes hawaiiensis Kirkaldy: new tribal assignment and lectotype designation (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Miridae: Orthotylinae: Orthotylini)
Authors: SCHWARTZ MICHAEL D. , TATARNIC NIKOLAI
Published: May 2019

The preponderance of documented morphological evidence presented for Nesidiorchestes hawaiiensis Kirkaldy, 1902 argues for its tribal reassignment to the Orthotylini from the Halticini. A lectoype is designated for a male syntype maintained in the Natural History Museum, London.
Tanaidacea (Crustacea: Peracarida) from Japan. IV. Shallow-water species from Akajima with notes on the recolonization potential of tanaids
Authors: LARSEN KIM , SHIMOMURA MICHITAKA
Published: May 2019

Two new species of tanaids were collected from colonization traps deployed in a shallow water, sandy habitat off Akajima, Nansei Islands. One new parapseudidaen, Parapseudes arenamans, and one new nototanaidaen genus and species, Paranesotanais longicephalus, are described herein. A preliminary phylogenetic analysis of the closest genera confirms the validity of the new genus and suggests a close affinity between the Leptocheliidae and Nototanaidae. Paranesotanais longicephalus was by far the most abundant species in the habitat. Parapseudes arenamans is faster in colonization of vacant substrate (opportunistic species), while being an inferior competitor to Paranesotanais longicephalus later in succession. A key to Nesotanais and Paranesotanais is provided.
Revision of the Brazilian Species of Pseudaugochlora Michener 1954 (Hymenoptera: Halictidae: Augochlorini)
Authors: ALMEIDA EDUARDO A. B.
Published: May 2019

The Brazilian species of the bee genus Pseudaugochlora are revised. Pseudaugochlora was erected by Michener to include species previously considered in Pseudaugochloropsis. Among the species previously known in the genus, only two — P. graminea (Fabricius 1804) and P. pandora (Smith 1853) — were known to occur in Brazil. In this study, five new species are described: P. erythrogaster, P. callaina, P. flammula, P. indistincta, and P. simulata, while P. graminea and P. pandora are re-described based on their types. An identification key for the seven Brazilian species of Pseudaugochlora and a revised diagnosis for the genus are provided.
A new species of sucking louse (Phthiraptera: Anoplura) from Australia, and a key to the Australian species of Hoplopleura
Authors: WEAVER HAYLEE J. , BARTON PHILIP S.
Published: May 2019

A new species of sucking louse, Hoplopleura zyzomydis, is described and illustrated from the common Australian rock rat Zyzomys argurus (Thomas, 1889) (Rodentia: Muridae), collected in northwest Queensland, Australia. This is the first record of a sucking louse from the genus Zyzomys, and its morphology is contrasted with other Australian Hoplopleura species. Hoplopleura zyzomydis is unique in having a combination of short dorsal principal thoracic setae and setae absent from paratergal plates 4–6. A key to the Australian species of Hoplopleura is presented.
A review of Tylostega Meyrick from Mainland China (Lepidoptera, Crambidae, Spilomelinae), with descriptions of four new species
Authors: DU XICUI , LI HOUHUN
Published: May 2019

Five species of the genus Tylostega Meyrick are recorded from China. Among them, T. pectinata sp. nov., T. luniformis sp. nov., T. lata sp. nov. and T. serrata sp. nov. are described as new, and T. tylostegalis (Hampson) is redescribed. Images of adults, genitalia of the five species are provided, along with a key to their identification.
Periclimenes aqabai sp. nov, a further species of the aesopius species group (Caridea: Pontoniinae) from the Red Sea
Authors: BRUCE A. J.
Published: May 2019

A new species of pontoniine shrimp from the Red Sea, Periclimenes aqabai sp. nov., is designated. A member of the aesopius species group, the species was originally identified as Periclimenes holthuisi.
A new species of Platambus from China (Coleoptera: Dytiscidae)
Authors: BIAN DONG-JU , JI LAN-ZHU
Published: May 2019

A new species of Platambus Thomson (Coleoptera: Dytiscidae) is described from China: Platambus elongatus sp. nov. Platambus elongatus sp. nov. has to be included within sawadai-group, characterized by its broadly oval shape, indistinct pronoto-elytral angle, and the strong puncturation on the upper surface. Platambus wulingshanensis Brancucci, 2005 is recorded from Hubei (China) for the first time and the widely distributed species Platambus excoffieri Régimbart, 1899 is recorded from Hainan and Shaanxi Chinese Provinces for the first time.
The “Celestial Pearl danio” is a miniature Danio (s.s) (Ostariophysi: Cyprinidae): evidence from morphology and molecules
Authors: CONWAY KEVIN W , CHEN WEI-JEN , MAYDEN RICHARD L
Published: May 2019

The osteology of the miniature cyprinid Celestichthys margaritatus Roberts, type species of Celestichthys Roberts, is described in detail and briefly compared with that of other members of the Rasborinae (notably Danio (s.s), Danionella, Devario, Esomus, Microrasbora, Paedocypris and Sundadanio). Celestichthys margaritatus possesses an “A” stripe on the anal fin and two pigment stripes on the caudal fin (apomorphic features of Danio sensu Fang, 2003). In addition, C. margaritatus exhibits a median projection on the outer arm of the os suspensorium, a derived feature, present only in species of Danio (including D. erythromicron) amongst the Cyprinidae, and a lateral projection on the lateral face of the dentary (present only in Danio, Sundadanio and Paedocypris). Phylogenetic analysis of 1,494 bp of the RAG1 nuclear gene for 31 rasborine taxa, including 5 species of Danio, places C. margaritatus as the sister group to D. erythromicron, and part of a larger monophyletic group including all other species of Danio included for analysis. Based on characters of morphology and its position in a molecular phylogeny of the Rasborinae it is proposed that Celestichthys be placed in the synonymy of Danio, its only member referred to as Danio margaritatus new combination.
On the validity of Fenerbahce Ozdikmen et al., 2006 as replacement for Adamas Huber, 1979 (Cyprinodontiformes: Nothobranchiidae)
Authors: SONNENBERG RAINER , VAN DER ZEE JOUKE R.
Published: May 2019

Recently, Fenerbahce Özdikmen et al., 2006 was proposed as a replacement name for the nothobranchiid genus Adamas Huber, 1979, which was found preoccupied by Adamas Malaise, 1945 (Hymenoptera:Tenthredinidae; Özdikmen et al. 2006). Subsequently, Huber (2007) published another replacement name, Adamans Huber, 2007, for the same genus because he challenged the availability of Fenerbahce. As currently none of the new proposed replacement names is widely used in the literature except in two publications (Huber 2007, Özdikmen et al. 2006) and in the online version of Eschmeyer's Catalog of Fishes (1998), it might be advisable to clarify this topic before confusion can arise.
Nematode-induced demasculinisation of Dolichopus males (Diptera: Dolichopodidae)
Authors: KAHANPÄÄ JERE
Published: May 2019

Species-level identification of male dolichopodid flies (Diptera: Dolichopodidae) is based on the structure of genitalia and secondary sexual characters. The effect of parasitic nematodes on the diagnostic features was studied in a sample of over 6000 Dolichopus adults collected mostly from Finland. Large nematodes were found in the abdominal cavity of 45 Dolichopus males. Parasitised males of the small to mid-sized species D. fraterculus Zetterstedt, D. lepidus Staeger, D. longitarsis Stannius and D. picipes Meigen were clearly demasculinised. Secondary sexual characters like a narrowed face, long ciliae on hind femora and modified tarsal segments were weakly developed or absent. Changes in the size, shape and position of male genitalia were also found. Larger species like D. discifer Stannius and D. popularis Wiedemann were less affected by the parasites. Some of the nematode-infected males have been described as new species and they are here synonymised as follows: Dolichopus brachyurus Zetterstedt 1859=D. fraterculus Zetterstedt, 1843; D. consimilis Wahlberg, 1850=D. picipes Meigen, 1824; D. cruralis Wahlberg, 1850=D. lepidus Staeger, 1842; D. kowarzianus Stackelberg, 1928=D. longitarsis Stannius, 1831; D. lapponicus Becker, 1917=D. lepidus Staeger, 1842; D. micropygus Wahlberg, 1850=D. fraterculus Zetterstedt, 1843; D. parvicaudatus Zetterstedt, 1843=D. plumipes (Scopoli, 1763); D. pectinitarsis Stenhammar, 1851=D. plumipes (Scopoli, 1763) syn. nov.
Two new species of Hemipenthes Loew from Oriental China (Diptera: Bombyliidae)
Authors: YAO GANG , YANG DING
Published: May 2019

Two species of the genus Hemipenthes Loew from Oriental China, H. yunnanensis sp. nov. and H. sichuanensis sp. nov., are described as new to science. A key to the species of the genus from Oriental China is presented.