bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of dispersal in river network metacommunities: Patterns, processes, and pathways
Authors: Tonkin Jonathan D. , Altermatt Florian , Finn Debra S. , Heino Jani , Olden Julian D. , Pauls Steffen U. , Lytle David. A.
Published: October 2017

River networks are hierarchical dendritic habitats embedded within the terrestrial landscape, with varying connectivity between sites depending on their positions along the network. This physical organisation influences the dispersal of organisms, which ultimately affects metacommunity dynamics and biodiversity patterns.

We provide a conceptual synthesis of the role of river networks in structuring metacommunities in relation to dispersal processes in riverine ecosystems. We explore where the river network best explains observed metacommunity structure compared to other measurements of physical connectivity. We mostly focus on invertebrates, but also consider other taxonomic groups, including microbes, fishes, plants, and amphibians.

Synthesising studies that compared multiple spatial distance metrics, we found that the importance of the river network itself in explaining metacommunity patterns depended on a variety of factors, including dispersal mode (aquatic versus aerial versus terrestrial) and landscape type (arid versus mesic), as well as location‐specific factors, such as network connectivity, land use, topographic heterogeneity, and biotic interactions. The river network appears to be less important for strong aerial dispersers and insects in arid systems than for other groups and biomes, but there is considerable variability. Borrowing from other literature, particularly landscape genetics, we developed a conceptual model that predicts that the explanatory power of the river network peaks in mesic systems for obligate aquatic dispersers.

We propose directions of future avenues of research, including the use of manipulative field and laboratory experiments that test metacommunity theory in river networks. While field and laboratory experiments have their own benefits and drawbacks (e.g. reality, control, cost), both are powerful approaches for understanding the mechanisms structuring metacommunities, by teasing apart dispersal and niche‐related factors.

Finally, improving our knowledge of dispersal in river networks will benefit from expanding the breadth of cost‐distance modelling to better infer dispersal from observational data; an improved understanding of life‐history strategies rather than relying on independent traits; exploring individual‐level variation in dispersal through detailed genetic studies; detailed studies on fine‐scale environmental (e.g. daily hydrology) and organismal spatiotemporal variability; and synthesising comparative, experimental, and theoretical work. Expanding in these areas will help to push the current state of the science from a largely pattern‐detection mode into a new phase of more mechanistically driven research.
Disentangling the mechanisms behind winter snow impact on vegetation activity in northern ecosystems
Authors: Wang Xiaoyi , Wang Tao , Guo Hui , Liu Dan , Zhao Yutong , Zhang Taotao , Liu Qiang , Piao Shilong
Published: October 2017

Although seasonal snow is recognized as an important component in the global climate system, the ability of snow to affect plant production remains an important unknown for assessing climate change impacts on vegetation dynamics at high‐latitude ecosystems. Here, we compile data on satellite observation of vegetation greenness and spring onset date, satellite‐based soil moisture, passive microwave snow water equivalent (SWE) and climate data to show that winter SWE can significantly influence vegetation greenness during the early growing season (the period between spring onset date and peak photosynthesis timing) over nearly one‐fifth of the land surface in the region north of 30 degrees, but the magnitude and sign of correlation exhibits large spatial heterogeneity. We then apply an assembled path model to disentangle the two main processes (via changing early growing‐season soil moisture, and via changing the growth period) in controlling the impact of winter SWE on vegetation greenness, and suggest that the “moisture” and “growth period” effect, to a larger extent, result in positive and negative snow–productivity associations, respectively. The magnitude and sign of snow–productivity association is then dependent upon the relative dominance of these two processes, with the “moisture” effect and positive association predominating in Central, western North America and Greater Himalaya, and the “growth period” effect and negative association in Central Europe. We also indicate that current state‐of‐the‐art models in general reproduce satellite‐based snow–productivity relationship in the region north of 30 degrees, and do a relatively better job of capturing the “moisture” effect than the “growth period” effect. Our results therefore work towards an improved understanding of winter snow impact on vegetation greenness in northern ecosystems, and provide a mechanistic basis for more realistic terrestrial carbon cycle models that consider the impacts of winter snow processes.
Spring fasting behavior in a marine apex predator provides an index of ecosystem productivity
Authors: Rode Karyn D. , Wilson Ryan R. , Douglas David C. , Muhlenbruch Vanessa , Atwood Todd C. , Regehr Eric V. , Richardson Evan S. , Pilfold Nicholas W. , Derocher Andrew E. , Durner George M. , Stirling Ian , Amstrup Steven C. , St. Martin Michelle , Pagano Anthony M. , Simac Kristin
Published: October 2017

The effects of declining Arctic sea ice on local ecosystem productivity are not well understood but have been shown to vary inter‐specifically, spatially, and temporally. Because marine mammals occupy upper trophic levels in Arctic food webs, they may be useful indicators for understanding variation in ecosystem productivity. Polar bears (Ursus maritimus) are apex predators that primarily consume benthic and pelagic‐feeding ice‐associated seals. As such, their productivity integrates sea ice conditions and the ecosystem supporting them. Declining sea ice availability has been linked to negative population effects for polar bears but does not fully explain observed population changes. We examined relationships between spring foraging success of polar bears and sea ice conditions, prey productivity, and general patterns of ecosystem productivity in the Beaufort and Chukchi Seas (CSs). Fasting status (≥7 days) was estimated using serum urea and creatinine levels of 1,448 samples collected from 1,177 adult and subadult bears across three subpopulations. Fasting increased in the Beaufort Sea between 1983–1999 and 2000–2016 and was related to an index of ringed seal body condition. This change was concurrent with declines in body condition of polar bears and observed changes in the diet, condition and/or reproduction of four other vertebrate consumers within the food chain. In contrast, fasting declined in CS polar bears between periods and was less common than in the two Beaufort Sea subpopulations consistent with studies demonstrating higher primary productivity and maintenance or improved body condition in polar bears, ringed seals, and bearded seals despite recent sea ice loss in this region. Consistency between regional and temporal variation in spring polar bear fasting and food web productivity suggests that polar bears may be a useful indicator species. Furthermore, our results suggest that spatial and temporal ecological variation is important in affecting upper trophic‐level productivity in these marine ecosystems.
Crop residue harvest impacts wind erodibility and simulated soil loss in the Central Great Plains
Authors: He Yuxin , Presley DeAnn R. , Tatarko John , Blanco‐Canqui Humberto
Published: October 2017

Crop residue removal can affect the susceptibility to soil wind erosion in climates such as those of the Central Great Plains, United States. Six on‐farm trials were conducted in Kansas from 2011 to 2013 to determine the effects of winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), corn (Zea mays L.), and grain sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench), residue removal at 0, 25, 50, 75, and 100% of initial height on soil wind erosion parameters. Those parameters include soil surface random roughness (RR), and wind erodible fraction (EF; aggregates <0.84 mm), geometric mean diameter (GMD) and geometric standard deviation (GSD), stability of dry aggregates (DAS). Complete (100%) residue removal decreased the surface RR, increased EF, and decreased GMD. Overwinter EF values increased for five of six sites from fall 2011 to spring of 2012, particularly for the uppermost removal height (≥75%). Measured EF, GMD, GSD, DAS, and RR were also input into the Single‐event Wind Erosion Evaluation Program (SWEEP) to determine the effect of these parameters on simulated soil loss. The SWEEP simulated the wind velocity needed to initiate wind erosion as well as soil loss under each residue removal height at a wind velocity of 13 m s−1 for three hours. Threshold wind velocity required to initiate wind erosion generally decreased with increasing crop residue removal height, particularly for >75% removal. Total estimated soil loss over the three‐hour event ranged from ≈2 to 25 Mg ha−1, depending on EF, GMD, GSD, RR, and percent crop residue cover. Removing 75% residue increased simulated wind erosion at three of six sites while removing 50% appears sustainable at all six study sites. Findings reinforce the need for site‐by‐site consideration of the potential amount of crop residue that may be harvested while mitigating wind erosion. Study results indicate the value of maintaining residue at >75% of original height.
The Eurasian hot nightlife: Environmental forces associated with nocturnality in lizards
Authors: Vidan Enav , Roll Uri , Bauer Aaron , Grismer Lee , Guo Peng , Maza Erez , Novosolov Maria , Sindaco Roberto , Wagner Philipp , Belmaker Jonathan , Meiri Shai
Published: October 2017

Aim

Lizards are ancestrally diurnal, and most of them remain so. Nocturnality is common among lizards, but the environmental factors associated with lizard nocturnal activity are still unknown. Here, we contrasted the ambient temperature and productivity hypotheses, where we predicted that cold temperatures will pose a stonger limit to nocturnal species richness than diurnal lizards. Moreover, we contrasted the relative importance of annual, day and night mean temperatures to pinpoint the drivers of nocturnal lizard richness.

Location

Mainland Eurasia.

Methods

We collected distribution range and activity time data for all 1,113 lizard species found throughout mainland Eurasia. This represents the largest geographical scope to date, for studies of lizard species richness. We examined the spatial patterns of nocturnal species richness in relationship to diurnal species richness across environmental gradients of ambient temperature and productivity.

Results

Nocturnal lizards are richest in the tropics and in deserts, and their richness decreases with latitude. However, nocturnal lizards are absent from the highest latitudes and coldest regions inhabited by lizards. Diurnal and nocturnal lizards respond in a similar manner to climatic factors. Ambient temperature has a strong influence on both, whereas productivity is more tightly related to the proportion of nocturnal species.

Main conclusions

Nocturnality is widespread among Eurasian lizards. However, nocturnal lizards are absent from invariably cold regions, and low temperatures seem to be a limiting factor for lizard activity period. We suggest that the year‐round warm nights of the tropics reduce the cost of being active at night and open the nocturnal niche for many lizards. In hot deserts, the combination of hot days and aridity increases the cost of diurnal activity, whereas nocturnal activity provides a shelter from these extreme conditions.
Naturally occurring ω‐Hydroxyacids
Authors: Wertz P. W.
Published: October 2017

ω‐Hydroxyacids are fatty acids bearing a hydroxyl group on the terminal carbon. They are found in mammals and higher plants and are often involved in providing a permeability barrier, the primary purpose of which is to reduce water loss. Some ω‐hydroxyacid derivatives may be involved in waterproofing and signalling. The purpose of this review was to survey the known natural sources of ω‐hydroxyacids. ω‐Hydroxyacids are produced by two different P450‐dependent mechanisms. The longer (30–34 carbons) ω‐hydroxyacids are produced by chain extension from palmitic acid until the chain extends across the membrane in which the extension is taking place, and then the terminal carbon is hydroxylated. Shorter fatty acids can be hydroxylated directly to produce C16 and C18 ω‐hydroxyacids found in plants and 20‐eicosatetraenoic acid (20‐HETE) by a different P450. The C16 and C18 ω‐hydroxyacids are components of polymers in plants. The long‐chain ω‐hydroxyacids are found in epidermal sphingolipids, in giant‐ring lactones from the sebum of members of the equidae, as a component of meibum and in carnauba wax and wool wax.
Effect of fraud risk assessments on auditor skepticism: Unintended consequences on evidence evaluation
Authors: Mubako Grace , O'Donnell Ed
Published: October 2017

This study examines whether auditors who learn that fraud risks differ between accounts could become less skeptical toward evidence that could signal financial misstatement in low‐fraud‐risk accounts. Our theoretical framework suggests that contrast effects could reduce skepticism about suspicious changes in low‐fraud‐risk accounts when auditors perform analytical procedures during the planning phase of assurance engagements. We conducted a laboratory experiment where experienced auditors analyzed year over year changes in accounts to assess misstatement risk for revenue and costs. We manipulated fraud risk for revenue and the presence of an inconsistent fluctuation in costs. Participants who learned that fraud risks had been assessed as high for revenue but low for costs rated misstatement risk at lower levels for cost accounts, compared with auditors who learned that fraud risk was assessed as low for both accounts.
Macrophage subtypes in recurrent nodular basal cell carcinoma after Mohs micrographic surgery
Authors: Padoveze Emerson H. , Chiacchio Nilton Di , Ocampo‐Garza Jorge , Cernea Selma S. , Belda Walter , Sotto Mirian N.
Published: October 2017

Background

The macrophages associated with solid tumors are related to the progression or regression of tumors, depending on the differentiation in M1 or M2. M2 subtype promotes angiogenesis, remodeling, and tissue repair (tumor proliferation). In contrast, M1 produces toxic mediators and presents antigens, destroying microorganisms and tumor cells. The microenvironment of most aggressive forms of basal cell carcinoma (BCC) shows an increase in macrophages due to M2 phenotype compared to noninvasive forms. The treatment of nodular BCC by Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) provides high cure rates, but relapses can occur.

Aims

To compare the total population of macrophages and their subpopulations M1 and M2 in cases of recurrent and nonrecurrent nodular BCC after excision by MMS.

Materials & Methods

Histological sections obtained from paraffin blocks of nine cases of recurrent nodular BCC after MMS and 18 cases of nonrecurrent nodular BCC operated by MMS were immunostained for iNOS, CD204, CD163, and CD68. The expression of these markers was analyzed by image analysis.

Results

No significant differences were found between the groups in relation to the average percentage of M1 cells, M2 cells, and total cells.

Discussion and Conclusion

A relationship was not seen between tumor‐associated macrophages (TAM) and tumor recurrence.
Demographics, management and treatment outcomes of benign and malignant retroperitoneal tumors in Japan
Authors: Fujimoto Naohiro , Kubo Tatsuhiko , Hisaoka Masanori , Udo Kazuma , Yokomizo Akira , Shibuya Tadamasa , Wakeda Hironobu , Nishihara Kiyoaki , Moriya Ryosuke , Iwakuma Keiko ,   the Kyushu Cooperative Urological Research Group
Published: October 2017

Objectives

To show the demographics, type of treatment and clinical outcomes of patients with retroperitoneal tumors in Japan.

Methods

We carried out a retrospective analysis of patients with retroperitoneal tumors treated between 2000 and 2012 at 12 university hospitals in Japan. Histology was re‐evaluated using the 2013 World Health Organization classification.

Results

A total of 167 patients were included in the analysis. The number of diagnosed patients increased over the 12‐year study period. Liposarcoma and schwannoma were the most common histological types among intermediate/malignant and benign tumors, respectively. The intermediate/malignant tumors were larger and were more frequently found in older people. Surgical resection was the primary treatment for 151 patients. The median survival duration for patients with malignant tumors was 91 months, and was significantly shorter than that for patients with benign and intermediate tumors (P < 0.01). R2 resection was associated with significantly shorter survival than R0/R1 resection for malignant tumors (P < 0.01), but not for intermediate. Grossly complete resection of the recurrent tumors improved survival.

Conclusion

The number of patients diagnosed with retroperitoneal tumors increased over time. R2 resection of primary tumors was found to be associated with poor prognosis in malignant tumors, but not in intermediate tumors. Complete surgical resection of recurrent tumors was associated with a better oncological outcome.
Addiction medicine ethics: relapse, no lapse and the struggle to treat addicts like everyone else
Authors: Douglas Charles
Published: October 2017

Two case studies are presented as a focus for discussion of ethics in addiction medicine. The first is that of the alcohol‐dependent patient who receives a liver transplant. The second is that of a heroin‐dependent patient who continues to inject himself while in a general medical ward. I make some comments about the obligations of doctors to treat those who cause harm to themselves as they would treat those who are ‘not responsible’.
Do all services provided as part of a clinical trial require research ethics and governance review?
Authors: Kenner Jeremy , Zalcberg John R.
Published: October 2017

Appropriate ethical oversight underpins the conduct of all clinical trials in Australia. In addition, clinical trials require a suitable approach to research governance in order to ensure that research is appropriately governed. However, such governance processes are often onerous and time‐consuming and are not required when trial practices are more appropriately understood as standard of care clinical services.
Recognition of giant cell arteritis in patients with polymyalgia rheumatica who have a stroke: a cautionary tale
Authors: Gutteridge Donald H. , Mastaglia Frank L.
Published: October 2017

An 82‐year‐old woman with polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) on prednisone 7 mg daily was admitted to an acute stroke unit with a right homonymous hemianopia, a left posterior cerebral artery occlusion and occipital lobe infarct. She had raised inflammatory markers, did not have a temporal artery biopsy, and was discharged on the same dose of prednisone. After 21 months, off prednisone, her ophthalmologist, concerned about giant cell arteritis (GCA), restarted prednisone 40 mg daily, with rapid, profound visual improvement. After 3 days her general practitioner, noting normal baseline inflammatory markers, stopped treatment‐with rapid visual reversion. It is critical to recognise GCA in patients with PMR admitted to a stroke unit and not to withdraw prematurely corticosteroids once commenced.
Long distance heart transplantation: a tale of two cities
Authors: Jain Pankaj , Prichard Roslyn A. , Connellan Mark B. , Dhital Kumud K. , Macdonald Peter S.
Published: October 2017

In this ‘paired’ case report, we describe two heart transplants performed 3 days apart at our centre. Both cases involved very prolonged transportation time of the donor heart. In one case, the donor heart was transported in an ice chest, while in the other case the organ was transported using a normothermic ex vivo perfusion (NEVP) system. The additional retrieval costs incurred by the use NEVP were more than offset by the reduction in subsequent inpatient costs.
Pneumococcal vaccination and incident hospitalisation for pneumonia in type 2 diabetes: the Fremantle Diabetes Study Phase II
Authors: Davis Timothy M. E. , Kauhanen Jane , Davis Wendy A.
Published: October 2017

Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine should be given to patients with diabetes at diagnosis with up to two further 5‐yearly doses. In 1465 representative community‐based Fremantle Diabetes Study Phase II participants with type 2 diabetes (mean age 66 years, 52% males), 624 (42.6%) self‐reported pneumococcal vaccination in the previous 5 years. Vaccination was significantly associated with insulin treatment and cardiovascular pharmacotherapy, suggesting that medical reviews provide the opportunity to address sub‐optimal coverage.
Asexual and puzzling sexual reproduction of the Mediterranean sponge Haliclona fulva (Demospongiae): life cycle and cytological structures
Authors: Ereskovsky Alexander V. , Geronimo Alexia , Pérez Thierry
Published: October 2017

Despite the common assumption that most Haplosclerida are viviparous sponges, this study of the reproductive cycle of Haliclona fulva demonstrates that this species is actually oviparous and gonochoric. Intriguingly, not a single male was recorded in 15 months of sampling. Oogenesis is synchronous, starting in late April and terminating in September. Asexual reproduction is represented by cyclic budding, which occurs from late November to early March. During the season of asexual reproduction, the reproductive effort represents from 0.21% to 1.49% of the parental tissue, with the highest values being recorded in winter. During the season of sexual reproduction, the female reproductive effort ranges 0.05–1.15%, with the highest effort appearing in early summer. However, no significant correlation between reproductive efforts and seawater temperature fluctuations could be detected. We describe the ultrastructural morphogenesis of the buds for the first time in this species. This process is asynchronous, with buds of variable size being attached to the maternal apical surface via a short stalk. Young buds lack any particular anatomical organization, whereas bud maturity is characterized by the development of mesohyl and by the appearance of an increasing number and volume of lacunae in the central part of each bud. At this stage, buds harbor numerous small choanocyte chambers scattered throughout the inner region, and all cell types known from the mesohyl of parental sponges: microgranular cells, granular cells, archaeocytes, endopinacocytes and exopinacocytes, central cells, and sclerocytes.
Predictable tendency of Bi NIR emission in Bi‐doped magnesium aluminosilicate laser glasses
Authors: Li Xiaoman , Cao Jiangkun , Wang Liping , Peng Mingying
Published: October 2017

Because of superbroad luminescence in the range of near infrared (NIR), Bi‐doped glasses and fibers have received more attentions recently for the applications in super broadband optical fiber amplifiers or new wavelength lasers. As the luminescence comes from the transitions between naked 6p orbitals of bismuth, it is very susceptible to slight changes of local field around Bi. Therefore, it is always very challenging to predict NIR emission of bismuth in advance. Here, we found bismuth NIR emission shows predictable tendency in ternary glass system of MgO–Al2O3–SiO2. The emission peak shifts red along the content of magnesium upon the excitation of 484 nm, which follows a single exponential growth equation. In the meantime, the full width at half maximum (FWHM) is broadened while the lifetime keeps decreasing. Glass structure analysis on basis of FTIR, 27Al NMR, 29Si NMR spectra reveals that these changes correlate to integrity of glass network, the increased disorder of local field around bismuth and the enhanced interaction between bismuth and host, which are perhaps due to the linear increase of nonbridging oxygen, and the enhanced Si–O asymmetric stretching vibrations along with magnesium, respectively. Electron probe microanalysis shows good homogeneity of Si, Al, Mg, Bi, and O distribution within the samples, and yoyo experiments of heating and cooling between 30°C and 300°C reveal the good resistance of such doped glasses to thermal degradation. This makes the glasses promising in applications of fiber devices even under extreme condition such as at higher temperature. The finding in this work should be helpful for the design of Bi‐doped laser glasses in future.
Microstructure and EMW absorption properties of CVI Si3N4–SiCN ceramics with BN interface annealed in N2 atmosphere
Authors: Xue Jimei , Yin Xiaowei , Ye Fang , Zhang Litong , Cheng Laifei
Published: October 2017

A kind of chemical vapor infiltration (CVI) Si3N4–BN–SiCN composite ceramic with excellent electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorbing properties is obtained by CVI BN interface and SiCN matrix on porous Si3N4 ceramics, and then annealed at high temperatures (1200°C‐1500°C) in N2 atmosphere. The crystallization behavior, EMW absorbing mechanism and mechanical properties of the composite ceramics have been investigated. Results showed CVI SiCN ceramics with BN interface were crystallized in the form of nanograins, and the crystallization temperature was lower. Moreover, both EMW absorbing properties and mechanical properties of CVI Si3N4–BN–SiCN composite ceramics firstly increased and then decreased with the increase in annealing temperature due to the influence of BN interface on the microstructure and phase composition of the composite ceramics. The minimum reflection coefficient (RC) and maximum effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of the composite ceramics annealed at 1300°C were −47.05 dB at the thickness of 4.05 mm and 3.70 GHz at the thickness of 3.65 mm, respectively. The flexural strength and fracture toughness of the composite ceramics annealed at 1300°C were 94 MPa and 1.78 MPa/m1/2, respectively.
Families’ experiences of raising concerns in health care services: An interpretative phenomenological analysis
Authors: Bright Naomi , Hutchinson Nick , Oakes Peter , Marsland Dave
Published: October 2017

Background

This exploratory study aimed to increase understanding of the experiences of families of people with intellectual disabilities when noticing and raising concerns in services. A qualitative design was employed.

Methods

Seven participants (all female) were recruited through local and national voluntary agencies; five were mothers of people with intellectual disabilities, one was the aunt and one the sister. Participants took part in semi‐structured interviews centred on their experiences of noticing and raising concerns, these were recorded and transcribed. The data were analyzed using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA; Smith, 1996).

Results

The data were grouped into three superordinate themes: the nature and importance of concerns, relationships between familes and staff and the process of raising concerns. A key and surprising finding was the importance of “the little things.”

Conclusions

This research highlights important implications for services such as the need to simplify the process of raising concerns, attend to the relationship with families and ensure advocacy services are identified for those without family.
Angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor–induced angioedema: A review of the literature
Authors: Brown Teresa , Gonzalez Jimmy , Monteleone Catherine
Published: October 2017

According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2012, one third of antihypertensive prescriptions in the United States in the past decade were for angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs). An important and serious side effect of ACEIs is angioedema caused by a reduction in bradykinin degradation. In a national medical chart abstraction study conducted at the US Veterans Affairs Health Care System in 2008, 0.20% of ACEI initiators developed angioedema while on the medication. The angiotensin‐converting enzyme is a part of the renin‐angiotensin system that converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II. It is additionally responsible for the degradation of bradykinin, which is generated from high molecular weight kininogen by kallikrein. Via bradykinin 2 receptors, bradykinin affects vascular permeability and stimulates the release of substance P, which is a peptide that causes vasodilation and fluid extravasation into tissues. Inhibition of the angiotensin‐converting enzyme and subsequent blockade of bradykinin degradation is thought to be a likely explanation for ACEI‐induced angioedema. Studies have shown that blacks, women, and smokers are at an increased risk for ACEI‐induced angioedema. A 2005 study identified black race, history of drug rash, age older than 65 years, and seasonal allergies as independent risk factors for angioedema related to enalapril. Angioedema may occur at any time during treatment with ACEIs and may continue after the medication is discontinued. The degree of ACEI‐angiotensin receptor blocker angioedema cross‐reactivity is difficult to determine from the literature. However, multiple studies have reported relatively low rates of native angioedema with angiotensin receptor blockers (approximately half that of ACEIs, or 0.1%) and a low incidence of cross‐reactivity (<10%). Common treatments for angioedema, such as antihistamines and glucocorticoids, have not been shown to be effective in ACEI‐induced angioedema. However, medications that have been used for acute treatment of hereditary angioedema and target the factors that cause ACEI‐mediated angioedema are being explored.
Traffic congestion and blood pressure elevation: A comparative cross‐sectional study in Lebanon
Authors: Bou Samra Patrick , El Tomb Paul , Hosni Mohammad , Kassem Ahmad , Rizk Robin , Shayya Sami , Assaad Sarah
Published: October 2017

This comparative cross‐sectional study examines the association between traffic congestion and elevation of systolic and/or diastolic blood pressure levels among a convenience sample of 310 drivers. Data collection took place during a gas station pause at a fixed time of day. Higher average systolic (142 vs 123 mm Hg) and diastolic (87 vs 78 mm Hg) blood pressures were detected among drivers exposed to traffic congestion compared with those who were not exposed (P<.001), while controlling for body mass index, age, sex, pack‐year smoking, driving hours per week, and occupational driving. Moreover, among persons exposed to traffic congestion, longer exposure time was associated with higher systolic and diastolic blood pressures. Further studies are needed to better understand the mechanisms of the significant association between elevated blood pressure and traffic congestion.
Chronic kidney disease with comorbid cardiac dysfunction exacerbates cardiac and renal damage
Authors: Liu Shan , Wang Bing H. , Kelly Darren J. , Krum Henry , Kompa Andrew R.
Published: October 2017

To address the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying chronic kidney disease with comorbid cardiac dysfunction, we investigated renal and cardiac, functional and structural damage when myocardial infarction (MI) was applied in the setting of kidney injury (induced by 5/6 nephrectomy—STNx). STNx or Sham surgery was induced in male Sprague–Dawley rats with MI or Sham surgery performed 4 weeks later. Rats were maintained for a further 8 weeks. Rats (n = 36) were randomized into four groups: Sham+Sham, Sham+MI, STNx+Sham and STNx+MI. Increased renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis (P < 0.01) and kidney injury molecule‐1 expression (P < 0.01) was observed in STNx+MI compared to STNx+Sham animals, while there were no further reductions in renal function. Heart weight was increased in STNx+MI compared to STNx+Sham or Sham+MI animals (P < 0.05), despite no difference in blood pressure. STNx+MI rats demonstrated greater cardiomyocyte cross‐sectional area and increased cardiac interstitial fibrosis compared to either STNx+Sham (P < 0.01) or Sham+MI (P < 0.01) animals which was accompanied by an increase in diastolic dysfunction. These changes were associated with increases in ANP, cTGF and collagen I gene expression and phospho‐p38 MAPK and phospho‐p44/42 MAPK protein expression in the left ventricle. Addition of MI accelerated STNx‐induced structural damage but failed to significantly exacerbate renal dysfunction. These findings highlight the bidirectional response in this model known to occur in cardiorenal syndrome (CRS) and provide a useful model for examining potential therapies for CRS.
Interplay between FGFR2b‐induced autophagy and phagocytosis: role of PLCγ‐mediated signalling
Authors: Nanni Monica , Ranieri Danilo , Raffa Salvatore , Torrisi Maria Rosaria , Belleudi Francesca
Published: October 2017

Signalling of the epithelial splicing variant of the fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2b) induces both autophagy and phagocytosis in human keratinocytes. Here, we investigated, in the cell model of HaCaT keratinocytes, whether the two processes might be related and the possible involvement of PLCγ signalling. Using fluorescence and electron microscopy, we demonstrated that the FGFR2b‐induced phagocytosis and autophagy involve converging autophagosomal and phagosomal compartments. Moreover, the forced expression of FGFR2b signalling mutants and the use of specific inhibitors of FGFR2b substrates showed that the receptor‐triggered autophagy requires PLCγ signalling, which in turn activates JNK1 via PKCδ. Finally, we found that in primary human keratinocytes derived from light or dark pigmented skin and expressing different levels of FGFR2b, the rate of phagocytosis and autophagy and the convergence of the two intracellular pathways are dependent on the level of receptor expression, suggesting that FGFR2b signalling would control in vivo the number of melanosomes in keratinocytes, determining skin pigmentation.
Inhibition of MEK/ERK signalling pathway promotes erythroid differentiation and reduces HSCs engraftment in ex vivo expanded haematopoietic stem cells
Authors: Zarrabi Morteza , Afzal Elaheh , Asghari Mohammad Hossein , Mohammad Monireh , Es Hamidreza Aboulkheyr , Ebrahimi Marzieh
Published: October 2017

The MEK/ERK pathway is found to be important in regulating different biological processes such as proliferation, differentiation and survival in a wide variety of cells. However, its role in self‐renewal of haematopoietic stem cells is controversial and remains to be clarified. The aim of this study was to understand the role of MEK/ERK pathway in ex vivo expansion of mononuclear cells (MNCs) and purified CD34+ cells, both derived from human umbilical cord blood (hUCB). Based on our results, culturing the cells in the presence of an inhibitor of MEK/ERK pathway—PD0325901 (PD)—significantly reduces the expansion of CD34+ and CD34+ CD38− cells, while there is no change in the expression of stemness‐related genes (HOXB4, BMI1). Moreover, in vivo analysis demonstrates that PD reduces engraftment capacity of ex vivo expanded CD34+ cells. Notably, when ERK pathway is blocked in UCB‐MNCs, spontaneous erythroid differentiation is promoted, found in concomitant with increasing number of burst‐forming unit‐erythroid colony (BFU‐E) as well as enhancement of erythroid glycophorin‐A marker. These results are in total conformity with up‐regulation of some erythroid enhancer genes (TAL1, GATA2, LMO2) and down‐regulation of some erythroid repressor genes (JUN, PU1) as well. Taken together, our results support the idea that MEK/ERK pathway has a critical role in achieving the correct balance between self‐renewal and differentiation of UCB cells. Also, we suggest that inhibition of ERK signalling could likely be a new key for erythroid induction of UCB‐haematopoietic progenitor cells.
Baseline laboratory parameters predicting clinical outcome in melanoma patients treated with ipilimumab: a single‐centre analysis
Authors: Gambichler T. , Brown V. , Steuke A.‐K. , Schmitz L. , Stockfleth E. , Susok L.
Published: October 2017

Background

Overall response rates (ORRs) for ipilimumab in advanced melanoma are only about 10%. Hence, it is important to explore biomarkers predicting ipilimumab responders.

Objective

We aimed to explore biomarkers to predict therapy outcome in melanoma patients who have undergone standard ipilimumab therapy in a real‐world setting.

Methods

Databases of cutaneous melanoma patients (n = 52) who had received ipilimumab were reviewed and data collected on patient characteristics and diverse laboratory parameters. We performed univariate and multivariate statistics including logistic regression analysis and Cox proportional‐hazards regression.

Results

Baseline leucocytes, lymphocytes, eosinophils, thrombocytes, neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio, thrombocytes/lymphocyte ratio, eosinophil/lymphocyte ratio and serum vitamin D levels were not significantly associated with ORR, progression‐free survival (PFS) and melanoma‐specific survival (MSS). Multivariate analysis confirmed anti‐PD‐1 pretreatment as significant predictor for ORR following ipilimumab therapy. Low‐LDH levels and more than two ipilimumab cycles turned out to be significant independent predictors for prolonged PFS. Low‐S100B levels and anti‐PD‐1 treatment before or after ipilimumab were significant independent predictors for improved MSS. All aforementioned parameters and faecal calprotectin did not turn out to be predictors for ipilimumab‐induced autoimmune‐related adverse events and autoimmune colitis, respectively.

Conclusions

Low serum LDH before ipilimumab treatment is an independent predictor for improved PFS. Furthermore, low serum S100B is an independent predictor for MSS. The number of ipilimumab cycles (>2) is significantly associated with prolonged PFS. Pretreatment calprotectin does not predict the occurrence of autoimmune colitis under ipilimumab therapy.
Learning quality through prices and word‐of‐mouth communication
Authors: Guadalupi Carla
Published: October 2017

This paper studies the effect of word‐of‐mouth communication on the optimal pricing strategy for new experience goods. I consider a dynamic monopoly model with asymmetric information about product quality, in which consumers learn in equilibrium from both prices and other consumers. The main result is that word‐of‐mouth communication is essential for the existence of separating equilibria, wherein the high‐quality monopolist signals high quality through a low introductory price (lower than the monopoly price), and the low‐quality one charges the monopoly price. The intuition is simple: low prices are costly, and will only be used by firms confident enough that increased experimentation (and therefore communication among consumers) will yield good news about quality and increased future profits. Additional results are the following: for the high‐quality seller, the expected price (quantity) is increasing (decreasing) over time; whereas for the low‐quality one, the opposite is true. Moreover, signaling becomes more difficult when consumers pay less attention to their peers' reports and more attention to past prices. Finally, word‐of‐mouth communication improves consumer welfare.
Optimization of convective drying assisted by ultrasound for Mango Tommy (Mangifera indica L.)
Authors: Méndez‐Calderón Erika K. , Ocampo‐Castaño Juan C. , Orrego Carlos E.
Published: October 2017

Convective drying is a conventional method to prolong the shelf‐life of foods that could negatively affect the product quality due to the long exposure time to high temperature. Ultrasound (US) has been used for reducing the drying time while maintaining the product quality. In this study a Box‐Behnken design of Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was used to evaluate the effects of US time‐frequency (t), US power level (Pot), and hot air temperature (T) on the drying process time (DPT), apparent density (AD), and color difference (ΔE) of the dried mango slices (10.0 ± 1.0% wet basis). Fisher's statistical testing was performed for the analysis of variance (ANOVA) for quadratic regression equations. The optimization goals were to minimize the responses. Modeled optimized conditions were 52–55 °C, 45–60 W, and 3 min/30 min for T, Pot, and t, respectively. Energy consumption and carbon footprint were also estimated during the validation of the optimal drying conditions.

Practical applications

This research explored the use of response surface methodology polynomial models fitted to the experimental data of US assisted drying assays to find the best values of air temperature, time‐frequency, and power of sonication for minimization of the drying process time (DPT) apparent density, and color difference of mango slices. The results specified ranges for the input‐variables where lower DPT and properly dried mango quality parameters co‐exist with important reductions in operational costs and carbon foot‐print compared with those estimated for conventional dehydration process. These findings are of interest toward the development of greener and more sustainable food drying processes.
Asian Organization for Crohn's and Colitis and Asia Pacific Association of Gastroenterology consensus on tuberculosis infection in patients with inflammatory bowel disease receiving anti‐tumor necrosis factor treatment. Part 2: Management
Authors: Park Dong Il , Hisamatsu Tadakazu , Chen Minhu , Ng Siew Chien , Ooi Choon Jin , Wei Shu Chen , Banerjee Rupa , Hilmi Ida Normiha , Jeen Yoon Tae , Han Dong Soo , Kim Hyo Jong , Ran Zhihua , Wu Kaichun , Qian Jiaming , Hu Pin‐Jin , Matsuoka Katsuyoshi , Andoh Akira , Suzuki Yasuo , Sugano Kentaro , Watanabe Mamoru , Hibi Toshifumi , Puri Amarender S , Yang Suk‐Kyun
Published: October 2017

Because anti‐tumor necrosis factor (anti‐TNF) therapy has become increasingly popular in many Asian countries, the risk of developing active tuberculosis (TB) among anti‐TNF users may raise serious health problems in this region. Thus, the Asian Organization for Crohn's and Colitis and the Asia Pacific Association of Gastroenterology have developed a set of consensus statements about risk assessment, detection and prevention of latent TB infection, and management of active TB infection in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) receiving anti‐TNF treatment. Twenty‐three consensus statements were initially drafted and then discussed by the committee members. The quality of evidence and the strength of recommendations were assessed by using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation methodology. Web‐based consensus voting was performed by 211 IBD specialists from nine Asian countries concerning each statement. A consensus statement was accepted if at least 75% of the participants agreed. Part 2 of the statements comprised three parts: (3) management of latent TB in preparation for anti‐TNF therapy, (4) monitoring during anti‐TNF therapy, and (5) management of an active TB infection after anti‐TNF therapy. These consensus statements will help clinicians optimize patient outcomes by reducing the morbidity and mortality related to TB infections in patients with IBD receiving anti‐TNF treatment.
Asian Organization for Crohn's and Colitis and Asian Pacific Association of Gastroenterology consensus on tuberculosis infection in patients with inflammatory bowel disease receiving anti‐tumor necrosis factor treatment. Part 1: Risk assessment
Authors: Park Dong II , Hisamatsu Tadakazu , Chen Minhu , Ng Siew Chien , Ooi Choon Jin , Wei Shu Chen , Banerjee Rupa , Hilmi Ida Normiha , Jeen Yoon Tae , Han Dong Soo , Kim Hyo Jong , Ran Zhihua , Wu Kaichun , Qian Jiaming , Hu Pin‐Jin , Matsuoka Katsuyoshi , Andoh Akira , Suzuki Yasuo , Sugano Kentaro , Watanabe Mamoru , Hibi Toshifumi , Puri Amarender S , Yang Suk‐Kyun
Published: October 2017

Because anti‐tumor necrosis factor (anti‐TNF) therapy has become increasingly popular in many Asian countries, the risk of developing active tuberculosis (TB) among anti‐TNF users may raise serious health problems in this region. Thus, the Asian Organization for Crohn's and Colitis and the Asian Pacific Association of Gastroenterology have developed a set of consensus statements about risk assessment, detection, and prevention of latent TB infection and management of active TB infection in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) receiving anti‐TNF treatment. Twenty‐three consensus statements were initially drafted and then discussed by the committee members. The quality of evidence and the strength of recommendations were assessed by using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation methodology. Web‐based consensus voting was performed by 211 IBD specialists from nine Asian countries concerning each statement. A consensus statement was accepted if at least 75% of the participants agreed. Part 1 of the statements comprised two parts: (i) risk of TB infection during anti‐TNF therapy and (ii) screening for TB infection prior to commencing anti‐TNF therapy. These consensus statements will help clinicians optimize patient outcomes by reducing the morbidity and mortality related to TB infections in patients with IBD receiving anti‐TNF treatment.
Stress‐related cortisol responsivity modulates prospective memory
Authors: Glienke K. , Piefke M.
Published: October 2017

It is known that there is inter‐individual variation in behavioural and physiological stress reactions to the same stressor. The present study aimed to examine the impact of cortisol responsivity on performance in a complex real life‐like prospective memory (PM) paradigm by a re‐analysis of data published previously, with a focus on the taxonomy of cognitive dimensions of PM. Twenty‐one male subjects were stressed with the Socially Evaluated Cold Pressor Test (SECPT) before the planning of intentions. Another group of 20 males underwent a control procedure. Salivary cortisol was measured to assess the intensity of the biological stress response. Additionally, participants rated the subjective experience of stress on a 5‐point rating scale. Stressed participants were post‐hoc differentiated in high (n = 11) and low cortisol responders (n = 10). Cortisol niveau differed significantly between the two groups, whereas subjective stress ratings did not. PM performance of low cortisol responders was stable across time and the PM performance of controls declined. High cortisol responders showed a nominally weaker PM retrieval across the early trails and significantly improved only on the last trial. The data demonstrate for the first time that participants with a low cortisol responsivity may benefit from stress exposure before the planning phase of PM. PM performance of high cortisol responders shows a more inconsistent pattern, which may be interpreted in the sense of a recency effect in PM retrieval. Alternatively, high cortisol responses may have a deteriorating effect on PM retrieval, which disappeared on the last trials of the task as a result of the decrease of cortisol levels across time. Importantly, the data also demonstrate that the intensity of cortisol responses does not necessarily correspond to the intensity of the mental experience of stress.