bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reticular macular lesions: a review of the phenotypic hallmarks and their clinical significance
Authors: Saade Celine , Smith Roland T
Published: May 2014

Reticular macular lesions, also known as ‘reticular macular disease’, ‘reticular drusen’, ‘reticular pseudodrusen’, or ‘subretinal drusenoid deposits’, are a pattern of lesions commonly found in age‐related macular degeneration and best visualized using at least two imaging techniques in combination. Reticular lesions have four stages of progression observable on spectral domain optical coherence tomography, but they do not show the usual signs of regression of soft drusen (calcification and pigment changes). Furthermore, reticular lesions correlate histologically with subretinal drusenoid deposits localized between the retinal pigment epithelium and the inner segment ellipsoid band. Reticular lesions are most commonly seen in older age groups of female patients with age‐related macular degeneration and are usually bilateral. They are not clearly associated with known age‐related macular degeneration genes and are highly associated with late‐stage age‐related macular degeneration and an increased mortality rate. They are also associated with alterations in the neural retina and choroid.
Diffusing obesity myths
Authors: Ramos Salas X. , Forhan M. , Sharma A. M.
Published: May 2014

Misinformation or myths about obesity can lead to weight bias and obesity stigma. Counteracting myths with facts and evidence has been shown to be effective educational tools to increase an individuals' knowledge about a certain condition and to reduce stigma.The purpose of this study was to identify common obesity myths within the healthcare and public domains and to develop evidence‐based counterarguments to diffuse them. An online search of grey literature, media and public health information sources was conducted to identify common obesity myths. A list of 10 obesity myths was developed and reviewed by obesity experts and key opinion leaders. Counterarguments were developed using current research evidence and validated by obesity experts. A survey of obesity experts and health professionals was conducted to determine the usability and potential effectiveness of the myth–fact messages to reduce weight bias. A total of 754 individuals responded to the request to complete the survey. Of those who responded, 464 (61.5%) completed the survey. All 10 obesity myths were identified to be deeply pervasive within Canadian healthcare and public domains. Although the myth–fact messages were endorsed, respondents also indicated that they would likely not be sufficient to reduce weight bias. Diffusing deeply pervasive obesity myths will require multilevel approaches.
Systematic review of evidence and consensus on diverticulitis: an analysis of national and international guidelines
Authors: Vennix S. , Morton D. G. , Hahnloser D. , Lange J. F. , Bemelman W. A. ,   the research committee of the European Society of Coloproctocology
Published: May 2014

Aim

The study aimed to analyse the currently available national and international guidelines for areas of consensus and contrasting recommendations in the treatment of diverticulitis and thereby to design questions for future research.

Method

MEDLINE, EMBASE and PubMed were systematically searched for guidelines on diverticular disease and diverticulitis. Inclusion was confined to papers in English and those < 10 years old. The included topics were classified as consensus or controversy between guidelines, and the highest level of evidence was scored as sufficient (Oxford Centre of Evidence‐Based Medicine Level of Evidence of 3a or higher) or insufficient.

Results

Six guidelines were included and all topics with recommendations were compared. Overall, in 13 topics consensus was reached and 10 topics were regarded as controversial. In five topics, consensus was reached without sufficient evidence and in three topics there was no evidence and no consensus. Clinical staging, the need for intraluminal imaging, dietary restriction, duration of antibiotic treatment, the protocol for abscess treatment, the need for elective surgery in subgroups of patients, the need for surgery after abscess treatment and the level of the proximal resection margin all lack consensus or evidence.

Conclusion

Evidence on the diagnosis and treatment of diverticular disease and diverticulitis ranged from nonexistent to strong, regardless of consensus. The most relevant research questions were identified and proposed as topics for future research.
Outcome of organs procured from donors on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support: an analysis of kidney and liver allograft data
Authors: Bodzin Adam S. , Hirose Hitoshi , West Sharon , Hasz Richard , Maley Warren R. , Cavarocchi Nicholas C.
Published: May 2014

Introduction

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation has become rescue therapy for adults with overwhelming cardiac and/or respiratory failure. Not all patients are saved, creating a new cohort of potential organ donors. This study examines the outcomes of liver and kidney allografts procured from donors on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO).

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted through the local organ procurement organization. Donors on ECMO prior to notification were classified into donation after brain death (DBD) and donation after cardiac death (DCD). We compared short‐term outcome data against published standards.

Results

Between 1995 and 2012, 97 organs were procured from 41 donors supported on ECMO. There were 68 kidneys donated, 51 were transplanted and 17 discarded. Excluding extended criteria donors, 29 DBD and 13 DCD kidneys were transplanted from donors supported on ECMO. Delayed graft function occurred in 34% of DBD kidneys and 38% of DCD kidneys. Kidney allograft survival at one yr was 93%. Twenty‐four livers were procured, nine discarded, and 15 transplanted. Ninety‐three percent of liver transplant recipients were alive with graft function at one yr.

Conclusions

Donation after brain death kidneys procured from donors on ECMO perform similarly to non‐ECMO organs with regard to delayed graft function (DGF), one‐yr graft survival and function. Livers from ECMO donors have a higher discard rate than non‐ECMO donors, but function similarly at six months and one yr.
Introduced and natural colonists show contrasting patterns of protected area association in UK wetlands
Authors: Hiley Jonathan R. , Bradbury Richard B. , Thomas Chris D.
Published: May 2014

Aim

Protected wildlife habitats provide valuable stepping stones for species that shift their distributions in response to climatic and other environmental changes, but they might also aid the spread of invasive alien species. Here, we quantify the use of protected areas (PAs) by both introduced and natural wetland colonists in the UK to analyse patterns of colonization and examine the propensity of invaders to use PAs.

Location

United Kingdom.

Methods

We calculate PA associations for six species of wetland birds deliberately introduced to the UK and compare these with eight others that have recently colonized the UK naturally. We assess PA associations at three different stages of establishment – first breeding in each county, early establishment of a population (4–6 years after initial breeding) and subsequent consolidation (14–16 after initial breeding) – and analyse changes in PA association over time.

Results

Introduced wetland bird species were less associated with PAs than natural colonists at each stage of establishment. During the later stages of colonization, the PA association of introduced species tended to increase. In contrast, natural colonists usually colonized PAs first, and their established populations subsequently spread into non‐PA sites.

Main conclusions

The United Kingdom PA network did not facilitate the invasion of introduced species during the initial stages of their colonization, but was vulnerable to colonization as populations established. This is in contrast to natural colonists, which are more reliant on PAs during initial colonization but become less dependent as they establish. During a period of rapid environmental change, PAs have facilitated expansions of natural colonists, without acting as the prime sites for invasion by introduced species.
Integrating large‐scale geographic patterns in flight morphology, flight characteristics and sexual selection in a range‐expanding damselfly
Authors: Therry Lieven , Gyulavári Hajnalka Anna , Schillewaert Sharon , Bonte Dries , Stoks Robby
Published: May 2014

While geographic trait variation along environmental clines is widespread, associated patterns in sexual selection remain largely unexplored. Geographic patterns in sexual selection may be expected if 1) phenotypes vary geographically and sexual selection is dependent on the local phenotypes in the population, and if 2) sexual selection is influenced by geographically structured environmental conditions. We quantified geographic variation in flight‐related traits and flight performance in mated and unmated males and tested for geographic variation in sexual selection on these traits in the poleward range‐expanding damselfly Coenagrion scitulum across a set of eleven core and edge populations ordered along thermal gradients in the larval and in the adult stage. We found little support for trait differentiation between core and edge populations, instead we found considerable geographic trait variation along the larval and adult thermal gradients. As expected under time constraints, body mass decreased with shorter larval growth seasons. Lower temperatures during the adult flight period were associated with a higher body mass, a higher flight speed and a higher fat content; these traits likely evolved to buffer flight ability at suboptimal temperatures and to optimize starvation resistance. Across the large geographic scale, we found a consistent higher flight duration in mated males. Instead, sexual selection for higher fat content was stronger in populations with lower adult flight temperatures and sexual selection for lower body mass acted only in edge populations. Our results indicate sexual selection on flight performance to be consistent over a large geographic scale and this despite the clear geographic patterns in sexual selection on the underlying morphological traits. Our results highlight that to fully understand the fitness implications of geographically changing trait patterns, researchers should consider the entire phenotype–performance–fitness axis and incorporate effects of geographically structured life‐stage specific environmental conditions on this axis.
Natural enemies of natural enemies: the potential top‐down impact of predators on entomopathogenic nematode populations
Authors: ULUG DERYA , HAZIR SELCUK , KAYA HARRY K. , LEWIS EDWIN
Published: May 2014

Top‐down population regulation can influence the success of biological control agents when they are released into the field. Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) are used commonly in biological control programmes, but their efficacy suffers from poor persistence. Although abiotic soil conditions have been shown to reduceEPNpersistence, consumption of infected insects by scavengers and of infective juvenile (IJ) nematodes by predators may also regulate these populations. In the present study, the effects of different soil arthropods onEPNs in laboratory conditions were measured. It was hypothesised that arthropods commonly found in soil communities whereEPNs are applied would consume cadavers of insects parasitised by the nematodes and theIJs themselves.

Some species of scavengers consumeEPN‐infected insects. Crickets (Gryllus bimaculatusDe Geer),American cockroaches [Periplaneta Americana(Linnaeus)], ants [Tetramorium chefketiForel andPheidole pallidula(Nylander)], earwigs (Labidura ripariaPallas), mites (Sancassania polyphyllaeZachvatkin), and springtails (Sinella curvisetaBrook andFolsomia candidaWillem) have different responses to nematode‐killed insects. Results suggested that ants (T. chefketi), cockroaches, mites, and earwigs fed onSteinernema‐killed insects whereas neither crickets nor springtails consumed them.

In the second part of the study, experiments were conducted to determine whether mites and springtails consumedIJ EPNs. Results showed thatS. polyphyllaemites do not consume infective juveniles in soil, whereas both springtail species consumed significant numbers of theIJs.

Top‐down regulatory processes can be a limiting factor forEPNpopulations under laboratory conditions. Both host cadavers andIJs are consumed (albeit by different arthropods), so these results may help explain the difficulties associated with the persistence ofEPNapplication to soil.
Learning histology – dental and medical students' study strategies
Authors: Johnson S. , Purkiss J. , Holaday L. , Selvig D. , Hortsch M.
Published: May 2014

Purpose

Histology, the science of cells and tissues at the microscopic level, is an integral component of most dental and medical curricula and is often taught using both traditional and novel computer‐based didactic approaches. The purpose of this study was to analyse the strategies used by dental and medical students when studying this very visual and challenging subject.

Methods

Data were collected from 75 dental and 143 medical students, who had almost identical histology learning resources at their disposal.

Results

When compared with their medical counterparts, dental students view histology as a more difficult subject and as less relevant for their future career. Whereas dental students, who are required to attend class unlike medical students, made more use of in‐classroom learning opportunities, they did not take as much advantage of out‐of‐classroom resources. In addition, dental students reported a significantly higher tendency than medical students to work together, rather than to study alone.

Discussion

Small differences in the dental versus the medical learning environment associate with several observed differences in learning strategies that are adopted by dental and medical students.

Conclusions

These differences should be considered when teaching the subject of histology to dental or to medical students.
Evaluation of the serum free light chain (sFLC) analysis in prediction of response in symptomatic multiple myeloma patients: rapid profound reduction in involved FLC predicts achievement of VGPR
Authors: Hansen Charlotte T. , Pedersen Per T. , Nielsen Lars C. , Abildgaard Niels
Published: May 2014

Background

Observational data from clinical studies indicate that the goal of first‐line therapy in newly diagnosed patients with symptomatic multiple myeloma (MM) should be very good partial response (VGPR) or better, preferably before high‐dose treatment. We evaluated the value of early measurements of involved free light chains (iFLC) in prediction of high‐quality responses. Measuring iFLC has a potential advantage due to a short half‐life compared to the half‐life of the M‐protein.

Methods

In 36 multiple myeloma (MM) patients, we measured serial changes in iFLC and M‐protein after start of treatment. iFLC and M‐protein were measured before treatment, the following 5 wk days, 2, 3 and 6 wks after start of treatment.

Results

Median iFLC and M‐protein half‐life was 2.75 and 11.9 d, respectively. All patients with an iFLC >75 mg/L had an initial significant reduction (>20%) in iFLC, even patients with no response to treatment. The mean per cent reduction in iFLC 3 d after start of treatment was 52.3% and 23.6% (P = 0.021) in patients achieving ≥VGPR and PR, respectively. The mean per cent reduction in M‐protein in patients achieving ≥VGPR and PR was not significantly different in the 6‐wk study period. As a predictor of VGPR, an 80% reduction in iFLC at day 21 resulted in a sensitivity of 87.5% and a specificity of 100%.

Conclusion

Changes in iFLC could be a tool for early identification of responders to anti‐myeloma therapy. Early, sequential measurements of iFLC within the first week after start of treatment are not meaningful.
Modelling the dispersal of the two main hosts of the raccoon rabies variant in heterogeneous environments with landscape genetics
Authors: Rioux Paquette Sébastien , Talbot Benoit , Garant Dany , Mainguy Julien , Pelletier Fanie
Published: May 2014

Predicting the geographic spread of wildlife epidemics requires knowledge about the movement patterns of disease hosts or vectors. The field of landscape genetics provides valuable approaches to study dispersal indirectly, which in turn may be used to understand patterns of disease spread. Here, we applied landscape genetic analyses and spatially explicit models to identify the potential path of raccoon rabies spread in a mesocarnivore community. We used relatedness estimates derived from microsatellite genotypes of raccoons and striped skunks to investigate their dispersal patterns in a heterogeneous landscape composed predominantly of agricultural, forested and residential areas. Samples were collected in an area covering 22 000 km2in southern Québec, where the raccoon rabies variant (RRV) was first detected in 2006. Multiple regressions on distance matrices revealed that genetic distance among male raccoons was strictly a function of geographic distance, while dispersal in female raccoons was significantly reduced by the presence of agricultural fields. In skunks, our results suggested that dispersal is increased in edge habitats between fields and forest fragments in both males and females. Resistance modelling allowed us to identify likely dispersal corridors used by these two rabies hosts, which may prove especially helpful for surveillance and control (e.g. oral vaccination) activities.
Spontaneous cyclization of polypeptides with a penultimate Asp, Asn or isoAsp at the N‐terminus and implications for cleavage by aminopeptidase
Authors: Lyons Brian , Kwan Ann H , Truscott Roger
Published: May 2014

A cyclic product that forms spontaneously from peptides that contain a penultimate Asp, Asn or isoAsp residue at the N‐terminus has been characterized. This 2,5‐diketopiperazine derivative forms under physiological conditions and is stable, showing little degradation even following heating at 60 °C. A mechanism for its formation from Asn and Asp peptides is proposed that involves a succinimide or isoaspartate intermediate. A diketopiperazine‐modified peptide was also detected in human lens extracts. Since peptides that contain the diketopiperazine moiety are not readily hydrolysed by leucine aminopeptidase, it is hypothesized that proteins and peptides modified in this way in the body may not readily be digested by the normal proteolytic machinery of cells.
Role of dynamin and clathrin in the cellular trafficking of flotillins
Authors: Meister Melanie , Zuk Alexandra , Tikkanen Ritva
Published: May 2014

Flotillin‐1 and flotillin‐2 are highly conserved, membrane‐microdomain‐associated proteins that have been shown to be involved in signal transduction, membrane trafficking and cell adhesion. Upon growth factor stimulation, flotillins are tyrosine phosphorylated and become endocytosed from the plasma membrane into endosomes from which they are recycled back to the plasma membrane. Although a role for flotillin‐1 in the endocytosis of certain cargo proteins has been suggested, it is not known how the growth‐factor‐induced endocytosis of flotillins is regulated and which endocytosis pathway is used. However, this is likely to be different from the pathway used by flotillin‐dependent cargo. In this study, we have addressed the mechanistic details of flotillin trafficking during growth factor signaling. We show that dynamin‐2 activity is required for the uptake of flotillins from the plasma membrane upon epidermal growth factor stimulation, and inhibition of dynamin‐2 GTPase activity impairs flotillin endocytosis. Surprisingly, recycling of flotillins from endosomes to the plasma membrane appears to require both dynamin‐2 and clathrin. Upon overexpression of dynamin‐2 mutants or depletion of clathrin heavy chain, flotillins are permanently trapped in endosomes. These data show that clathrin and dynamin are required for the endosomal sorting of flotillins, and the study provides a mechanistic dissection of the thus far poorly characterized endosomal trafficking of flotillins.

Structured digital abstract

flotillin-1 and flotillin-2 colocalize by fluorescence microscopy (View interaction)

CHC and dyn2 colocalize by fluorescence microscopy (View interaction)

LAMP3 and flotillin-2 colocalize by fluorescence microscopy (View interaction)
Environmental influences on daily commercial catch rates of South Australia's southern rock lobster (Jasus edwardsii)
Authors: Feenstra John , McGarvey Richard , Linnane Adrian , Punt André E. , Bean Nigel
Published: May 2014

The extent to which catchability of southern rock lobster (Jasus edwardsii) due to short‐term environmental factors, rather than abundance, may be affecting legal‐size catch rates from the South Australian Southern Zone rock lobster fishery was examined. Multivariate weighted linear regression was applied to daily aggregated commercial catch rates using several environmental covariates in addition to year and month. Model pruning via backward selection identified the following variables as being significantly related to catch rate: wave height and period, lagged wave height, bottom temperature, moon phase, and a spatial block index. These variables explained 7% of the total variance in log‐transformed daily catch rates and another 84% was explained by month and year. A negative relationship was found between catch rate and each of bottom temperature and same‐day wave height, while the relationships between catch rate and days prior to full moon, and average wave height over the past 3 days were positive.
The interactive effect of MAOA‐LPR genotype and childhood physical neglect on aggressive behaviors in Italian male prisoners
Authors: Gorodetsky E. , Bevilacqua L. , Carli V. , Sarchiapone M. , Roy A. , Goldman D. , Enoch M.‐A.
Published: May 2014

Aggressive disorders are moderately heritable; therefore, identification of genetic influences is important. The X‐linked MAOA gene, encoding the MAOA enzyme, has a functional 30 bp repeat polymorphism in the promoter region (MAOA‐LPR) that has been shown to influence aggression. Childhood trauma is a known risk factor for numerous psychopathologies in adulthood including aggressive behaviors. We investigated the interactive effect of MAOA‐LPR genotype and a history of childhood trauma in predicting aggressive behaviors in a prisoner population. A total of 692 male prisoners were genotyped for MAOA‐LPR with genotypes grouped into high and low transcriptional activity. Participant evaluations included measures of aggression (Brown‐Goodwin Lifetime History of Aggression, BGHA), hostility (Buss–Durkee Hostility Inventory), impulsivity (Barratt Impulsiveness Scale), violence directed toward self and others, and childhood trauma [Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ)]. MAOA‐LPR interacted with CTQ physical neglect (PN), the most common (47%) form of childhood trauma in this sample, to predict BGHA aggression (P = 0.002). Within the group not exposed to PN, carriers of the MAOA‐LPR high‐activity variant were more aggressive: (tR  = 2.47, P < 0.014). We observed a crossover effect in that the increase in aggression scores with PN was greater in low‐activity individuals (tR = 5.55, P < 0.0001) than in high‐activity individuals (tR = 4.18, P < 0.0001). These findings suggest that childhood trauma and the functional MAOA‐LPR polymorphism may interact to specifically increase risk for over aggressive behavior but not impulsivity or hostility. The MAOA‐LPR low‐activity variant may be protective against the development of aggressive behavior under low stress conditions, at least in this prisoner population.
Effect of dairy slurry application rate and forage type on production, soil nutrient status and nitrogen‐use efficiency
Authors: Dale A. J. , Laidlaw A. S. , Bailey J. S. , Mayne C. S.
Published: May 2014

Seven forage types (diploid and tetraploid perennial ryegrass, Italian ryegrass and hybrid ryegrass, a low‐input mixture of perennial ryegrass, cocksfoot, timothy and meadow fescue, a mixture of perennial ryegrass and white clover, and monoculture of red clover) were sown in late July 2004. Each received one of four rates of dairy cattle slurry in three annual applications by trailing shoe, which supplied average nitrogen (N) inputs of 0·0, 114·9, 204·8 and 301·2 kg N ha−1 annum−1. Treatments were cut either three or four times annually over four years. Average dry‐matter yield (DM) response to slurry N was 15·6 kg DM kg−1 N. Lowest recovery of slurry N was in the second application each year (after first cut). The data suggest that slurry applied to Italian ryegrass, and also to swards containing legumes on soils with high phosphorus content, will produce a lower DM response to slurry N and result in a lower slurry N recovery than on swards of perennial ryegrass or cocksfoot‐dominant low‐input mixtures. Apparent recovery of slurry N was low at the second cut, especially when first‐cut yields had been high. To maximize slurry N recovery, application to regrowths with potentially slow rates of growth or high legume content should be avoided.
Haemophilia Experiences, Results and Opportunities (HERO) Study: Influence of haemophilia on interpersonal relationships as reported by adults with haemophilia and parents of children with haemophilia
Authors: Cassis F. R. M. Y. , Buzzi A. , Forsyth A. , Gregory M. , Nugent D. , Garrido C. , Pilgaard T. , Cooper D. L. , Iorio A.
Published: May 2014

Evidence delineating the effects of haemophilia on interpersonal relationships is sparse and largely outdated, failing to reflect the impact of current treatment strategies. HERO (Haemophilia Experiences, Results and Opportunities) was commenced to garner a more comprehensive understanding of psychosocial issues facing persons with haemophilia (PWH). This article describes the findings of the quantitative HERO survey relating to the influence of haemophilia on interpersonal relationships of adult PWH, and parents/caregivers of children with haemophilia. Separate questionnaires were completed by adult PWH and parents of minor children from 10 countries, including satisfaction with support from partners, family, friends and other social contacts; disclosure of haemophilia and carrier status and family dynamics. A total of 675 PWH and 561 parents completed the survey. Over half of PWH (57%) and parents (84%) were married. Most PWH were satisfied with support from partners (94%), family (90%) and friends (85%), with lower percentages reported among those with inhibitors. Most parents were likewise satisfied with support from partners (88%) and family (83%). Whereas PWH were reticent to disclose their diagnosis beyond family and friends, parents were more likely to share their son's diagnosis, and most were satisfied with the support from their son's peers (74%), teachers (83%) and other adults in supervisory roles (85%). PWH and parents surveyed were satisfied overall with the support they received from partners, family, friends and social contacts. Relationships are affected by haemophilia in various ways, and particularly affected in terms of disease burden, age and social life.
Between the Ancien Régime and Liberal Modernity: Law, Justice and State Formation in colonial Quebec, 1760–1867
Authors: Fyson Donald
Published: May 2014

This article surveys the historiography of state formation in colonial Quebec, from the British Conquest of 1759/1760 to Canadian Confederation in 1867, focussing on law and justice. It is structured around three key themes: the Conquest as a point of rupture, with the imposition of a British colonial state and English law on top of a largely French‐origin society; the nature of the ancien‐régime state over the 80 years that followed; and the historiographical debate over the creation of a new liberal order in Canada and Quebec from the 1840s onwards. The article ends with a discussion of six factors, both local and transnational, which help account for legal change and state formation in Quebec in the period.
Clusterin expression in gastrointestinal neuroendocrine tumours is highly correlated with location and is helpful in determining the origin of liver metastases
Authors: Mourra Najat , Scriva Aurelie , Mansiaux Yohann , Gozlan Sarah , Bennis Malika , Balaton Andre
Published: May 2014

Aims

Clusterin (CLU) is a sulphated glycoprotein implicated in many physiological and pathological processes, including tumorigenesis. We have previously demonstrated that CLU is highly expressed in pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours (NETs). The aims of this study were: to investigate CLU expression in gastrointestinal NETs; the potential correlation between this expression and different clinicopathological parameters; and its usefulness in the differential diagnosis of liver metastases.

Methods and results

Immunohistochemistry using an anti‐CLU antibody was performed on paraffin sections from 108 primary NETs [G3 (13 cases), G2 (18 cases), and G1 (77 cases), according to the 2010 WHO classification] and 60 metastases. Cytoplasmic positivity was scored qualitatively and quantitatively. The pattern of staining was also assessed. Two‐step statistical analyses (univariate and multivariate logistic regression) were performed. More than 90% of small‐intestine NETs were completely negative. The probability of obtaining a positive CLU score was higher for the appendix, the stomach, the duodenum and the rectum than for the small intestine and colon. All G3 NETs and most G2 NETs were negative as compared with G1. CLU expression in the metastatic foci was identical to that of the primary tumour.

Conclusions

Clusterin expression in gastrointestinal NETs is highly correlated with location and probably also with grading, in both the primary tumour and metastases. Underexpression of CLU in small‐intestine NETs is helpful for identifying the origin of liver metastases: a strong CLU score in a liver biopsy makes the small intestine highly unlikely as a primary site.
Phenotypical and molecular distinctness of sinonasal haemangiopericytoma compared to solitary fibrous tumour of the sinonasal tract
Authors: Agaimy Abbas , Barthelmeß Sarah , Geddert Helene , Boltze Carsten , Moskalev Evgeny A. , Koch Michael , Wiemann Stefan , Hartmann Arndt , Haller Florian
Published: May 2014

Aims

Sinonasal haemangiopericytoma (SN‐HPC) is a rare sinonasal mesenchymal neoplasm of perivascular myoid cell origin. Solitary fibrous tumour (SFT) occurs only very rarely in the sinonasal tract. SFT and soft tissue HPC have been considered a single entity. Recently, recurrent gene fusions involving NAB2‐STAT6 resulting in differential expression of STAT6 were characterized as central molecular events in SFT. However, no data exist for NAB2–STAT6 status or STAT6 expression in SN‐HPC.

Methods and results

We examined six SN‐HPCs and two sinonasal SFTs by immunohistochemistry and RT–PCR for NAB2–STAT6 fusions. SN‐HPC affected three females and three males (mean age: 72 years). They expressed smooth muscle actin, lacked strong CD34 reactivity and were negative for nuclear STAT6 expression. RT–PCR analysis confirmed the absence of NAB2–STAT6 fusions in all cases. Conversely, both sinonasal SFTs (in males aged 39 and 52 years) displayed classical features of pleuropulmonary and soft‐tissue SFTs (uniformly CD34‐positive with strong nuclear expression of STAT6). RT–PCR revealed NAB2–STAT6 fusions in both cases.

Conclusions

These findings confirm the molecular and phenotypical distinctness of these two entities. While SN‐HPC is a site‐specific sinonasal neoplasm of as yet unknown molecular pathogenesis, sinonasal SFTs show phenotypical and molecular identity to their pleural/extrapleural counterparts.
Overexpression of G9a and MCM7 in oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma is associated with poor prognosis
Authors: Zhong Xinwen , Chen Xiaolong , Guan Xiaojiao , Zhang Heng , Ma Yinan , Zhang Shuguang , Wang Enhua , Zhang Lin , Han Yuchen
Published: May 2014

Aims

Histone methyltransferase G9a has been primarily understood as a co‐repressor of gene expression, but it has been shown that G9a also positively regulates nuclear receptor‐mediated transcription. MCM7, a critical component of the DNA replication licensing complex, is amplified and overexpressed in a variety of human malignancies. The objectives of the present study were to study the relationship between the expression of G9a and MCM7 and the pathological grade, clinical stage and prognosis of oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).

Methods and results

We collected 139 formalin‐fixed and paraffin‐embedded tissues from patients with OSCC and surveyed them by tissue microarray‐based immunohistochemical staining. Associations between the expression of MCM7 and G9a and clinicopathological parameters and prognosis of OSCC were examined. From tissue microarray immunohistochemistry staining results, we found that nuclear staining intensity for MCM7 and G9a was associated with histological grade (both P < 0.001), tumour depth (P = 0.050, 0.034), lymph node metastasis (P = 0.001, 0.009) and tumour stage (P < 0.001, =0.003). G9a expression was correlated with that of MCM7. G9a overexpression independently predicted poor cancer‐specific survival in OSCC (hazard ratio 0.05, 95% confidence interval 0.006–0.417, P = 0.006) and MCM7 (hazard ratio 0.05, 95% confidence interval 0.013–0.441, P = 0.004). OSCC patients whose tumours showed double‐positive expression of G9a and MCM7 (G9a+MCM7+) had much shorter survival than those from either the G9a or MCM7 low expression groups (G9a−MCM7−, G9a+MCM7−, G9a−MCM7+).

Conclusions

MCM7 and G9a may serve as effective prognostic factors and could also be used as biomarkers for predicting various clinical outcomes of OSCCs in the Chinese population.
The changing role of the pathologist in the management of Barrett's oesophagus
Authors: Hopcroft Suzanne A , Shepherd Neil A
Published: May 2014

Pathological specimens from columnar‐lined oesophagus (CLO) comprise a considerable proportion of the workload of gastrointestinal pathologists in Western countries. There remain controversies concerning the diagnostic role of pathology. More recently, in the UK at least, the diagnosis has been regarded as primarily an endoscopic endeavour, with pathology being corroborative and only diagnostic when endoscopic features are equivocal or when there are additional features that make the endoscopic diagnosis unclear. There is also recognition that demonstration of intestinalisation or ‘goblet cells’ is not paramount, and should not be required for the diagnosis. There have been notable changes in the management of CLO neoplasia: pathologists are centrally involved in its management. Pathological assessment of endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) specimens provides the most useful means of determining the management of early neoplasia and of determining indications for surgery. This represents an extraordinarily rapid change in management, in that, <10 years ago, laborious Seattle‐type biopsy protocols were recommended, and high grade dysplasia was an indication for resectional surgery. Now, individual patient management is paramount: multi‐professional meetings determine management after biopsy and EMR assessment. One significant change is that major resections are undertaken less often, in Western countries, for CLO neoplasia.
Moth communities and agri‐environment schemes: Examining the effects of hedgerow cutting regime on diversity, abundance, and parasitism
Authors: Facey Sarah L. , Botham Marc S. , Heard Matthew S. , Pywell Richard F. , Staley Joanna T.
Published: May 2014

Hedgerows provide an important habitat for wildlife including invertebrates, representing a large proportion of semi‐natural habitat patches in the modern agricultural landscapes of the UK and Europe. Around 40% of hedgerow length in England is managed under agri‐environment scheme (AES) options, which specify less frequent cutting and advise cutting in winter.

Hedgerow management can alter habitat structure and quality, potentially influencing invertebrate community structure. We assessed the impacts of management treatments on moth communities and their parasitoids. Two treatments (‘cutting frequency’: once every 1, 2, or 3 years, and ‘cutting time’: autumn vs. winter) were applied to a long‐running hedgerow experiment, mimicking AES prescriptions. Moth larvae were collected from the hedgerows, identified and reared to determine parasitism. Hedgerow structure and foliar quality were quantified and related to changes in moth abundance, diversity, species richness, and parasitism.

Hedgerow management did not significantly affect overall abundance of moth larvae, but did affect the abundance of certain feeding guilds and trophic interactions with parasitoids. Concealed moth larvae (mining, tentiform, and case bearing) were more abundant on hedgerows cut infrequently (every 2 or 3 years vs. annually). Parasitism rates were higher on hedgerows cut less often, when these were cut in autumn. There was a strong trend towards greater moth species richness and diversity on winter cut hedgerows.

Agri‐environment scheme management can thus have complex effects on invertebrate communities. The abundance of some moths may be positively affected by AES hedgerow management and this can have knock‐on effects on parasitoid abundance.
Preparation of CeO2 Nano Rods Through a Sonication‐Assisted Precipitation
Authors: Kim‐Lohsoontorn Pattaraporn , Tiyapongpattana Veerinrada , Asarasri Nipat , Seeharaj Panpailin , Laosiripojana Navadol
Published: May 2014

A CeO2 nanopowder has been synthesized using sonication‐assisted precipitation. The use of ultrasonics during precipitation showed potential morphology control during synthesis. The sonication‐assisted precipitation with highly aqueous base (20 M NaOH) successfully induced the formation of a one‐dimensional nanostructure of CeO2 rods with a homogeneous shape and size (TEM: 24 nm diameter and 129 nm long). A conventional precipitation under the same conditions provided the CeO2 in nonuniform sizes and shapes. Heat treatment (1100°C for 4 h) was required for CeO2 formation when (NH4)2C2O4 was used instead of NaOH. The concentration of the precipitation agent (15–20 M) strongly affected the size and shape of the product. Importantly, according to the temperature‐programmed reduction/oxidation study, the CeO2 prepared using the sonication‐assisted route showed a relatively higher level of reversible oxygen storage capacity (2384 μmol/g), compared with the CeO2 prepared by conventional route (1748 μmol/g).
Nurses' computer literacy and attitudes towards the use of computers in health care
Authors: Gürdaş Topkaya Sati , Kaya Nurten
Published: May 2014

This descriptive and cross‐sectional study was designed to address nurses' computer literacy and attitudes towards the use of computers in health care and to determine the correlation between these two variables. This study was conducted with the participation of 688 nurses who worked at two university‐affiliated hospitals. These nurses were chosen using a stratified random sampling method. The data were collected using the Multicomponent Assessment of Computer Literacy and the Pretest for Attitudes Towards Computers in Healthcare Assessment Scale v. 2. The nurses, in general, had positive attitudes towards computers, and their computer literacy was good. Computer literacy in general had significant positive correlations with individual elements of computer competency and with attitudes towards computers. If the computer is to be an effective and beneficial part of the health‐care system, it is necessary to help nurses improve their computer competency.
Interstitial cystitis and the painful bladder: A brief history of nomenclature, definitions and criteria
Authors: Meijlink Jane M
Published: May 2014

“Practically every author writing on this subject has suggested a new name which only adds to the confusion and multiplication” (Kretschmer H, 1922).

Despite multiple names and many definitions and classifications over the past two centuries, the medical world is no closer to discovering the cause or causes of this enigmatic bladder disorder, currently known as interstitial cystitis, bladder pain syndrome or painful bladder syndrome and hypersensitive bladder. International consensus on nomenclature, definitions and diagnosis is now essential to ensure that studies are carried out on the same basis, thereby generating meaningful data that can be relied on for further use. In our electronic age, multiple names and definitions cause confusion for researchers, clinicians and patients, even leading to the patient's diagnosis being unrecognized by authorities, resulting in refusal to reimburse treatment or provide social benefits. As the key to the puzzle lies in the patients, with all their symptoms and comorbidities, and as patients are directly affected by changes in nomenclature and definitions, patient organization representatives should be given every opportunity to participate in discussions on guidelines, taxonomy, definitions and terminology.
A comparative review of 3D container loading algorithms
Authors: Zhao Xiaozhou , Bennell Julia A. , Bektaş Tolga , Dowsland Kath
Published: May 2014

Three‐dimensional cutting and packing problems have a range of important applications and are of particular relevance to the transportation of cargo in the form of container loading problems. Recent years have seen a marked increase in the number of papers examining a variant of the container loading problem ranging from largely theoretical to implementations that focus on meeting the many critical real‐world constraints. In this paper, we review the literature focusing on the solution methodologies employed by researchers, with the aim of providing insight into some of the critical algorithmic design issues. In addition, we provide an extensive comparison of algorithm performance across the benchmark literature.
Biopsy: Why, Where, When, How
Authors: Ackerman A. Bernard
Published: May 2014

This paper tells how to do a proper skin biopsy—and how not to!
Dermatology Abroad: West Germany
Authors: Konz Birger
Published: May 2014

The difference in the teaching and practice of dermatological surgery in Germany and the United States is discussed in this paper.
Mohs' Surgery—Fresh Tissue Technique
Authors: Robins Perry , Albom Michael J.
Published: May 2014

Mohs' Chemosurgery, the most effective method for the treatment of skin cancer, can be performed with or without zinc chloride paste. During the past three years 1065 cases of basal‐cell carcinoma and squamous‐cell carcinoma were treated by the Fresh‐Tissue Technique. The advantages and disadvantages of the procedure are discussed.
Beginning Dermatologic Surgery: An Essay
Authors: Tromovitch Theodore A.
Published: May 2014

A general essay suggesting textbooks, courses, fellowships, surgical models and surgical organizations which would help the beginning dermatologic surgeon develop proficiency in this area.
Treatment of Ulcers on the Legs With Hyperbaric Oxygen
Authors: Fischer Boguslav H.
Published: May 2014

Skin ulcerations present in patients being treated for other conditions with hyperbaric oxygen were noted to heal at an accelerated rate. This observation led to the concept of topical exposure to hyperbaric oxygen as a treatment of intractable cutaneous ulcers.
Common Plantar Hyperkeratoses
Authors: Engler Gordon L. , Gibbs Richard C.
Published: May 2014

Metatarsal bars are used for the treatment of plantar keratoses.
CAPSULE ANESTHESIOLOGY: Use of Local Anesthetics In Dermatology
Authors: Abadir Adel
Published: May 2014

This paper, the second of three articles, discusses the basic techniques of administering local anesthetics. A brief procedural explanation of some of the most commonly used nerve blocks is included.
Surgery and Coronary Heart Disease
Authors: Drasin Harry , Sharkey Irwin
Published: May 2014

Surgeons are frequently confronted with a patient who has recently had a myocardial infarction, needs an operation urgently, or has a postoperative infarction. This paper examines the extreme caution necessary when surgery is scheduled for a patient with coronary heart disease.
Perspectives in Malpractice
Authors: Dick Lionel
Published: May 2014

Medical malpractice dates from Biblical days. And, since then, much has been written on the subject. This article is a general overview of the historical, legal, and professional aspects of medical malpractice.
The Choice of Suture Material for Skin Closure
Authors: Aston Sherrell J.
Published: May 2014

Sutures must be chosen on the basis of known biologic properties of the wounds in which they are to be placed, the known interactions of the chosen suture material with tissues of wounds in particular sites, and the intended purpose of the suture material. The following paper concentrates on suture material used to approximate cutaneous wounds and, briefly, the wounds themselves.
Surgical Treatment of Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Authors: Duncan W. Christopher
Published: May 2014

Hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic, recurrent, suppurative inflammation of apocrine glands. Morbidity is high and serious complications may occur. A technique of surgical treatment utilizing an electrosurgical unit to provide cutting current is described. This allows rapid unroofing and cauterization of extensive cysts and sinus tracts.
Medicine and History: Philip Syng Physick The Reluctant Medical Student Who Became “The Father of American Surgery”* A Saga for the Bicentennial
Authors: Marmelzat Willard L.
Published: May 2014

I dedicate this historical item to the memory of Dr. Rudolph Matas (1860–1957), another giant of American Surgery and also a medical historian, visionary, and (proud I am to say) friend. He is one of the earliest of people who directed me into writing medical history. He counseled me to reveal of medical subjects their “virtues and faults, warts and all.”
Microtopography of the Skin and Scar Formation
Authors: M.A. F. Charles Tring
Published: May 2014

The surface microtopography of normal human skin varies from one anatomical region to another. The patterns at different sites are considered to reflect different orientations of dermal fibers. A simple technique is described that enables such orientations to be accurately delineated. Various scars resulting from lacerations, surgical incisions, and steroid‐induced striae were examined in the manner described.
Dermabrasion for Adenoma Sebaceum
Authors: Earhart Robert N. , Nuss Donald D. , Martin Robert J. , Imber Richard , Aeling John L.
Published: May 2014

Two patients with tuberous sclerosis but without mental retardation were dermabraded for adenoma sebaceum. The treatment was effective and cosmetically satisfying.
Nail Biopsy–Why, When, Where, How?
Authors: Baran Robert , Sayag Jacqueline
Published: May 2014

The technique and significance of nail biopsies with regard to mycotic and bacterial infections, onychopathy associated with cutaneous and systemic diseases, and benign and malignant ungual neoplasms is discussed.
Radiotherapy for Aggressive and Destructive Keratoacanthomas
Authors: Farina Anthony T. , Leider Morris , Newall Joseph , Carella Richard
Published: May 2014

An experience of treating five cases of aggressive and destructive keratoacanthomas by radiotherapy is recounted. The results were satisfactory in every instance.
Medicine and History: Saga of a Historical Investigation The Account of Celsus' Surgical Management of Pilar and Epithelial Cysts
Authors: Marmelzat Willard L.
Published: May 2014

I dedicate this historical item to Dr. Morris Leider, talented clinician, careful researcher, and devoted teacher, whose tireless editorial and linguistic labors have enabled so many to express in print what they really meant to say.