bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From incipient island arc to doubly‐vergent orogen: A review of geodynamic models and sedimentary basin‐fills of southern Central America
Authors: Brandes Christian , Winsemann Jutta
Published: June 2018

Southern Central America is a Late Mesozoic/Cenozoic island arc that evolved in response to the subduction of the Farallón Plate beneath the Caribbean Plate in the Late Cretaceous and, from the Oligocene, the Cocos and Nazca Plates. Southern Central America is one of the best studied convergent margins in the world. The aim of this paper is to review the sedimentary and structural evolution of arc‐related sedimentary basins in southern Central America, and to show how the arc developed from a pre‐extensional intra‐oceanic island arc into a doubly‐vergent, subduction orogen. The Cenozoic sedimentary history of southern Central America is placed into the plate tectonic context of existing Caribbean Plate models. From regional basin analysis, the evolution of the southern Central American island arc is subdivided into three phases: (i) non‐extensional stage during the Campanian; (ii) extensional phase during the Maastrichtian‐Oligocene with rapid basin subsidence and deposition of arc‐related, clastic sediments; and (iii) doubly‐vergent, compressional arc phase along the 280 km long southern Costa Rican arc segment related to either oblique subduction of the Nazca plate, west‐to‐east passage of the Nazca–Cocos–Caribbean triple junction, or the subduction of rough oceanic crust of the Cocos Plate. The Pleistocene subduction of the Cocos Ridge contributed to the contraction but was not the primary driver. The architecture of the arc‐related sedimentary basin‐fills has been controlled by four factors: (i) subsidence caused by tectonic mechanisms, linked to the angle and morphology of the incoming plate, as shown by the fact that subduction of aseismic ridges and slab segments with rough crust were important drivers for subduction erosion, controlling the shape of forearc and trench‐slope basins, the lifespan of sedimentary basins, and the subsidence and uplift patterns; (ii) subsidence caused by slab rollback and resulting trench retreat; (iii) eustatic sea‐level changes; and (iv) sediment dispersal systems.
Quick vacuum drying of liquid samples prior to ATR‐FTIR spectral collection improves the quantitative prediction: a case study of milk adulteration
Authors: Ayvaz Huseyin , Temizkan Riza
Published: June 2018

Attenuated total reflectance‐Fourier transform infrared (ATR‐FTIR) spectroscopy‐based prediction methods were previously shown to be a practical alternative to determine milk adulteration. However, milk in general contains high amount of water and infrared absorptions sourcing from water dominate the mid‐infrared spectrum of the milk, preventing the other key vibrations in fingerprint region from escalating. Therefore, we aimed at evaluating the efficacy of a 30‐s vacuum treatment on liquid milk aliquots prior to spectral collection and compare the results with no vacuum‐applied spectra. Overall, quick vacuum treatment approach led to better‐resolved peaks in the fingerprint region of the spectra compared with water‐dominated spectra of milk with no vacuum application. Considering the residual predictive deviation (RPD) values obtained, vacuum treatment has significantly improved the performance of the models in prediction indicating that quick vacuum approach would be beneficial if implemented for routine determination for milk adulteration.
Evaluation of the sensory and physical properties of meat and fish derivatives containing grape pomace powders
Authors: Mainente Federica , Menin Alessia , Alberton Angelica , Zoccatelli Gianni , Rizzi Corrado
Published: June 2018

The wine industry produces tons of pomace that, in a circular economy model, should be valorised. The phenols fraction of grape pomace represents a source of food colorants, but also of natural food preservatives. Furthermore, the pomace contains dietary fibre, unsaturated lipids, antioxidants and minerals that have been recognised as wholesome and technologically useful. The main drawback of using grape pomace is represented by its chemical and microbiological instability. Different authors proposed strategies to overcome these limitations, and different approaches for the use of grape pomace as an ingredient have been described. Here, we sum up the chemical and microbiological solutions for the stabilisation of grape pomace, describing the approaches used to transform this waste in a functional ingredient, and comparing the physiochemical characteristics of the resulting products. We further describe the studies concerning sensory aspects of the products by enriching animal fleshes with different pomace powder preparations.
Evaluation of Ion Torrent sequencing technology for rapid clinical human leucocyte antigen typing
Authors: Guerra Sandra G. , Chong Winnie , Brown Colin J. , Navarrete Cristina V.
Published: June 2018

The development of techniques to define the human leucocyte antigen (HLA) region has proven to be challenging due to its high level of polymorphism. Within a clinical laboratory, a technique for high‐resolution HLA typing, which is rapid and cost effective is essential. NGS has provided a rapid, high‐resolution HLA typing solution, which has reduced the number of HLA ambiguities seen with other typing methods. In this study, the One Lambda NXType NGS kit was tested on the Ion Torrent PGM platform. A total of 362 registry donors from four ethnic populations (Europeans, South Asians, Africans and Chinese) were NGS HLA typed across 9‐loci (HLA‐A, ‐B, ‐C, ‐DRB1,‐DRB345 ‐DQB1 and ‐DPB1). Concordance rates of 91%–98% were obtained (for HLA‐A, ‐B, ‐C, ‐DRB1, ‐DQB1 and ‐DPB1) when compared to historical PCR‐SSO HLA types, and the identification of uncommon alleles such as A*24:07:01 and C*04:82 were observed. A turnaround time of four days was achieved for typing 44 samples. However, some limitations were observed; primer locations did not allow all ambiguities to be resolved for HLA Class II where Exon I and IV amplification are needed (HLA‐DRB1*04:07:01/04:92, HLA‐DRB1*09:01:02/*09:21 and HLA‐DRB1*12:01:01/*12:10). This study has demonstrated high‐resolution typing by NGS can be achieved in an acceptable turnaround time for a clinical laboratory; however, the Ion Torrent workflow has some technical limitations that should be addressed.
ADHD symptoms and body composition changes in childhood: a longitudinal study evaluating directionality of associations
Authors: Bowling A. B. , Tiemeier H. W. , Jaddoe V. W. V. , Barker E. D. , Jansen P. W.
Published: June 2018

Background

Attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is linked to increased risk of overweight/obesity among children and adults. Studies have also implicated obesity as a risk factor for ADHD. However, no studies have evaluated bidirectional, longitudinal associations between childhood fat mass and ADHD symptom severity.

Objectives

We investigate bidirectional associations between ADHD symptoms and measures of body composition between ages 1.5 and 9. We further examine effects of specific eating patterns linked to ADHD on associations between symptom severity and body composition.

Methods

The study utilized data from children (N = 3903) participating in the Generation R cohort (Netherlands). Children were enrolled at birth and retained regardless of ADHD symptoms over time. Cross‐lagged and change models examined bidirectional associations between body composition (body mass index/dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry) and ADHD symptoms at four time points in childhood.

Results

A child with a clinically concerning ADHD symptom z‐score two standard deviations above the mean at age 6 would be expected to experience about 0.22 kg greater fat mass gain measured via dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry between ages 6 and 9, even if they displayed healthy eating patterns (95% CI: 0.11 ‐ 0.28, p < 0.001). Conversely, fat mass at any age did not predict worse ADHD symptoms later.

Conclusions

Beginning in early childhood, more ADHD symptoms predict higher fat mass at later ages. We did not find evidence of a reverse association. Based on these and prior findings, lifestyle counselling during treatment for children with a diagnosis of ADHD should be considered, even if they are diagnosed in early childhood and do not yet have a body mass index of clinical concern.
Plasmacytoid dendritic cell heterogeneity is defined by CXCL10 expression following TLR7 stimulation
Authors: Marsman Casper , Lafouresse Fanny , Liao Yang , Baldwin Tracey M , Mielke Lisa A , Hu Yifang , Mack Matthias , Hertzog Paul J , de Graaf Carolyn A , Shi Wei , Groom Joanna R
Published: June 2018

Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) play a critical role in bridging the innate and adaptive immune systems. pDCs are specialized type I interferon (IFN) producers, which has implicated them as initiators of autoimmune pathogenesis. However, little is known about the downstream effectors of type I IFN signaling that amplify autoimmune responses. Here, we have used a chemokine reporter mouse to determine the CXCR3 ligand responses in DCs subsets. Following TLR7 stimulation, conventional type 1 and type 2 DCs (cDC1 and cDC2, respectively) uniformly upregulate CXCL10. By contrast, the proportion of chemokine positive pDCs was significantly less, and stable CXCL10+ and CXCL10− populations could be distinguished. CXCL9 expression was induced in all cDC1s, in half of the cDC2 but not by pDCs. The requirement for IFNAR signaling for chemokine reporter expression was interrogated by receptor blocking and deficiency and shown to be critical for CXCR3 ligand expression in Flt3‐ligand‐derived DCs. Chemokine‐producing potential was not concordant with the previously identified markers of pDC heterogeneity. Finally, we show that CXCL10+ and CXCL10− populations are transcriptionally distinct, expressing unique transcriptional regulators, IFN signaling molecules, chemokines, cytokines, and cell surface markers. This work highlights CXCL10 as a downstream effector of type I IFN signaling and suggests a division of labor in pDCs subtypes that likely impacts their function as effectors of viral responses and as drivers of inflammation.
Lessons learnt from local real‐life experience with idarucizumab for the reversal of dabigatran
Authors: Brennan Yvonne , Favaloro Emmanuel J. , Pasalic Leonardo , Keenan Hayley , Curnow Jennifer
Published: June 2018

Background

Idarucizumab is a specific antidote for the direct thrombin inhibitor oral anticoagulant dabigatran etexilate. It has been used with increasing frequency in Australia since it was granted Therapeutic Goods Administration approval in October 2016.

Aims

To assess idarucizumab usage, effect on coagulation parameters and clinical outcomes in patients who received idarucizumab in Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD).

Methods

A retrospective audit was conducted of all patients who received idarucizumab in WSLHD between September 2015 and December 2017.

Results

Of the 23 patients who received idarucizumab, 17 (74%) had bleeding, and 6 (26%) required urgent surgery/procedure. Thrombin time (TT) or activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT, when TT not available) remained prolonged at 24 h post‐idarucizumab infusion in 10 of 20 (50%) patients. Renal impairment at admission was associated with prolonged TT/APTT at 24 h (P = 0.02). Of the six (26%) patients who died during hospital admission, five had raised TT/APTT at 24 h (P = 0.05). Two deaths were due to continued bleeding despite idarucizumab. Only 17% of patients received prohaemostatic treatments, and none received plasma derivatives. Despite assay availability, dabigatran drug level was only measured in eight patients.

Conclusion

Idarucizumab helped achieve haemostasis in 15 bleeding patients and allowed 6 patients to undergo urgent surgery. Half the patients had prolonged TT/APTT at 24 h post‐idarucizumab, which was more likely to occur in patients with impaired renal function.
Computed tomography head scans prior to lumbar punctures in suspected meningitis
Authors: Imtiaz Aqilah , Toomath Robyn
Published: June 2018

Background

The literature suggests that certain clinical criteria to determine raised intracranial pressure (ICP) should be met if a patient suspected of meningitis is to undergo a computed tomography (CT) head scan prior to having a lumbar puncture (LP).

Aim

To evaluate whether these criteria were being used by the general medicine department of Auckland City Hospital when requesting CT scans prior to LPs in patients with suspected meningitis.

Methods

A total of 37 patients admitted under general medicine with suspected meningitis from 1 January to 31 July 2016 were retrospectively audited based on the clinical evidence justifying the decision to do a CT scan prior to a LP.

Results

Only 7 of 24 patients who underwent CT scans had met clinical criteria for raised ICP. There were no abnormalities found on any of the CT scans and approximately two‐thirds of these patients had a final diagnosis of viral illness or headache.

Conclusion

A large number of patients with suspected meningitis under general medicine at Auckland City Hospital are having CT scans without clinical evidence suggestive of raised ICP.
Gaps in the ice: Methamphetamine in Australia; its history, treatment, and ramifications for users and their families
Authors: Gordon Douglas Greg , de Jong Gideon
Published: June 2018

It is now well‐established that Australia has a significant issue with methamphetamine. Recent dramatic changes in manufacturing have led to significant shifts in both the patterns of use and the relative purity of this illicit drug, with the crystalline form of methamphetamine commonly referred to as ‘ice’. Excessive use not only impacts on those taking the drug, but also takes a heavy toll on their families. With few effective treatment options currently available, there is a strong focus on developing replacement pharmacotherapies and examining the efficacy of outpatient counselling and residential treatment options. Recent research in addiction care supports the positive impact that families of users can have on both treatment and recovery for their loved ones. Despite this recognition, there is little current research looking at the experiences of families of users of the uniquely problematic drug methamphetamine. This paper outlines the historical narrative that has led to the current worldwide phenomenon of ice use and explores contemporary directions of research into its impact and potential treatments. In doing so, it outlines the relatively unexplored impact of ice on families and highlights a current need for nursing research into their experiences living with loved ones using the drug.
Barriers to hospital admission among people with eating disorders: A qualitative internet‐based study
Authors: Elran‐Barak Roni , Barak Adi , Cohen‐Ashkenazi Shlomit , Schifter Tamar
Published: June 2018

We seek to describe the barriers that people with eating disorders (EDs) face when undertaking a decision about whether to be admitted for inpatient treatment. Data were retrieved from a moderated ED Internet community website. A descriptive phenomenological approach was used to explore the shared experiences of community members who posted information about their viewpoints on inpatient admission. Three themes emerged: (i) ‘Can I let others help me?’ addressed the question of participants’ ability to cooperate with hospital staff; (ii) ‘Can I give up my daily routine?’ focused on participants’ meaningful lives outside of their ED (school, work, family, friends); and (iii) ‘Can inpatient treatment work?’ revealed a general lack of faith in the ability of inpatient treatment to make a substantial positive contribution. Our findings highlight the difficulties associated with making a decision about inpatient admission and suggest implications for mental‐health professionals.
Self‐management challenges and support needs among kidney transplant recipients: A qualitative study
Authors: Been‐Dahmen Janet M. J. , Grijpma Jan Willem , Ista Erwin , Dwarswaard Jolanda , Maasdam Louise , Weimar Willem , Van Staa AnneLoes , Massey Emma K.
Published: June 2018

Aims

This study investigated self‐management challenges and support needs experienced by kidney transplant recipients.

Background

After kidney transplantation, recipients are expected to take an active role in self‐management. However, evidence suggests that nurses experience difficulties operationalizing self‐management support. Greater insight into the recipients’ perspective could help to improve the adequacy and efficacy of nurse‐led self‐management support.

Design

A cross‐sectional qualitative study.

Methods

Focus groups and individual interviews were carried out with kidney transplant recipients treated in a Dutch university hospital. Directed content analysis (DCA) was used.

Results

Forty‐one kidney transplant recipients participated. Challenges after transplantation included becoming an expert patient, adjusting daily life activities, dealing with medical regimen, forming relationships with nurses, dealing with social consequences, dealing with emotions related to transplantation and the donor and improving self‐image. To be able to deal with these challenges, participants wished to receive disease specific knowledge and instruction, share personal experiences with fellow patients, share and discuss not only medical but also emotional and social issues with nurses and wanted to be encouraged through positive feedback. “One‐size fits all” education was considered insufficient in meeting their needs.

Conclusions

After kidney transplantation, recipients experienced various challenges in dealing with the medical, emotional and social tasks. Current support from nurses overlooked recipients’ emotional and social support needs. Nurses need adequate tools and training to be able to meet recipients’ self‐management support needs.
Mediating effects of workplace violence on the relationships between emotional labour and burnout among clinical nurses
Authors: Kim Hyejin , Kim Ji‐Su , Choe Kwisoon , Kwak Yeunhee , Song Jae‐seok
Published: June 2018

Aims

To test a model of the relationship between nurses’ burnout and emotional labour using structural equation modelling to identify the mediating effects of workplace violence.

Background

Nurses are a group that experiences high emotional labour and are exposed to various types of violence in the clinical setting. Burnout is related to emotional labour and exposure of workplace violence, but alternatives to reduce burnout in the context of emotional labour (e.g., reduction in workplace violence) have not been extensively investigated.

Design

This study adopted a cross‐sectional design.

Methods

A convenience sample comprising 400 nurses from four university hospitals in Korea was selected from 10 to 30 October 2016. Data on nurses’ level of emotional labour, burnout and workplace violence were collected from participants. A composite‐indicator structural equation model was used to examine the mediation model.

Results

Overall, 356 nurses (89.0%) returned the completed questionnaires. Burnout was significantly and positively associated with emotional labour and workplace violence. In addition, workplace violence mediated the relationship between emotional labour and burnout related to the nursing job.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that, to alleviate burnout in clinical nurses due to emotional labour, various programs and policy measures should be adopted to prevent their exposure to workplace violence and to enhance the organizational management of violence.
Re‐conceptualizing pain through patient‐centred care in the complementary and alternative medicine therapeutic relationship
Authors: Agarwal Vinita
Published: June 2018

Aims

The study aim was to understand the patient description of the therapeutic relationship with their CAM provider in the context of pain self‐management.

Background

Because pain is a subjective state, its assessment depends on patient perception of and response to pain. For nurses to provide empathetic and compassionate care, there is a need to explicate patient perceptions of the therapeutic relationship to (re)conceptualize models of patient‐centred care.

Design

Inductive qualitative content analysis of patient interviews was conducted to identify how patients described therapeutic relationship themes and understand self‐management of pain.

Methods

Participants were individuals working with a CAM practitioner and solicited through purposive and snowball sampling in collaboration with the practitioners from the mid‐Atlantic region of the United States in 2016 (N = 13). Verbatim transcriptions of audio‐recorded semi‐structured in‐depth interviews (430 single‐spaced pages approximately) were content analysed.

Findings

Patients described the therapeutic relationship with the provider as a: (1) giver, who was “in‐tune” with their sense of self to support self‐affirmation through empathetic listening; and (2) guide, who connected the mind and body through their practice to support self‐reflective learning.

Conclusion

This description of the CAM therapeutic relationship advances understandings of readjustment of patient relationship with pain through the provider's empathetic listening and connecting the mind and the body to support patient self‐affirmation of pain experiences and self‐reflective learning. The findings illuminate how a feminist standpoint contributes to understandings of the therapeutic relationship that centres patient subjectivity and co‐construction of meaning‐making processes to support self‐management of pain.
Thermal constraints of energy assimilation on geographical ranges among lungless salamanders of North America
Authors: Clay Timothy A. , Gifford Matthew E.
Published: June 2018

Aim

Understanding biogeographical patterns of variation in distributional ranges of lungless salamanders in North America by examining the relationship between geography, temperature and range. We examined how these patterns fit with Rapoport's rule, that species distributional ranges increase with increasing elevation and latitude. We also examined a possible physiological mechanism behind Rapoport's rule, the climate variability hypothesis (CVH).

Location

Eastern North America.

Methods

We determined the thermal optimum and thermal performance breadth of energy assimilation for 12 species of lungless salamanders (Plethodon). From known collection localities, we determined species range characteristics (area, latitudinal and elevational range, and latitudinal and elevational mid‐point), and environmental characteristics (average mean temperature and temperature variability). We used an interspecific approach and phylogenetic generalized least squares (PGLS) to test assumptions of Rapoport's rule and the CVH. For Rapoport's rule we compared elevational and latitudinal mid‐points with measures of range size. For the CVH we examined the relationship between temperature variation, range size and thermal performance breadth. We also explored the relationship between thermal optima, average annual temperature and elevational and latitudinal mid‐points.

Results

Species range size increased respective to both their elevational and latitudinal mid‐points.

Temperature variability and thermal performance breadth increased with increasing elevational and latitudinal mid‐points. Range size increased because of increases in thermal performance breadth. Average annual temperature and thermal optimum were positively correlated and decreased with increasing elevational and latitudinal mid‐points. Phylogenetic signal was strong with the relationships between physiological measures and geography.

Main Conclusions

Support for Rapoport's rule was found with respect to latitude and elevation amongPlethodon. The thermal physiology of salamanders appears to be co‐adapted to the prevailing environmental conditions within their geographical distributions. We provided support for the predictions of the CVH and suggest it is a driving mechanism for their distributional patterns. Our results also suggest that important aspects ofPlethodonphysiology are evolutionarily conserved.
Investigation of novel biomarkers for predicting the clinical course in patients with ulcerative colitis
Authors: Hamanaka Shinsaku , Nakagawa Tomoo , Hiwasa Takaki , Ohta Yuki , Kasamatsu Shingo , Ishigami Hideaki , Taida Takashi , Okimoto Kenichiro , Saito Keiko , Maruoka Daisuke , Matsumura Tomoaki , Takizawa Hirotaka , Kashiwado Koichi , Kobayashi Sohei , Matsushita Kazuyuki , Matsubara Hisahiro , Katsuno Tatsuro , Arai Makoto , Kato Naoya
Published: June 2018

Background

The clinical course of ulcerative colitis (UC) is characterized by repeated episodes of relapse and remission. We hypothesized that biomarkers that help distinguish refractory UC patients who are in remission using strong anti‐immunotherapy could contribute in preventing the overuse of corticosteroids for treatment. Here, we clarified novel autoantibodies for UC patients in remission as clinical indicators to distinguish between refractory and non‐refractory UC.

Methods

Antigen proteins recognized by serum antibodies of patients with UC in remission were screened using the protein array method. To validate the results, AlphaLISA was used to analyze the serum antibody titers with candidate protein antigens. Serum samples from 101 healthy controls, 121 patients with UC, and 39 patients with Crohn's disease were analyzed.

Results

Of 66 candidate protein antigens screened by ProtoArray™, six were selected for this study. The serum titers of anti‐poly ADP‐ribose glycohydrolase (PARG), anti‐transcription elongation factor A protein‐like 1, and anti‐proline‐rich 13 (PRR13) antibodies were significantly higher in patients with UC than in healthy controls. Anti‐PARG and anti‐PRR13 antibody titers were significantly higher in patients with refractory UC than in patients with non‐refractory UC. There were no significant differences in any antibody titer between the active and remission phases.

Conclusions

The serum titers of anti‐PARG, anti‐transcription elongation factor A protein‐like 1, and anti‐PRR13 antibodies were elevated in patients with UC. Anti‐PARG and anti‐PRR13 antibody titers may be novel clinical indicators for detecting refractory UC in patients in remission.
Magnetic resonance elastography increases usefulness and safety of non‐invasive screening for esophageal varices
Authors: Matsui Nobuaki , Imajo Kento , Yoneda Masato , Kessoku Takaomi , Honda Yasushi , Ogawa Yuji , Tomeno Wataru , Fujisawa Nobutaka , Misumi Toshihiro , Kazumi Kubota , Saito Satoru , Nakajima Atsushi
Published: June 2018

Background and Aims

The Baveno VI criteria enable non‐invasive screening for esophageal varices. However, these criteria were established based on studies examining a large proportion of patients with viral hepatitis and relatively few patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Furthermore, because vibration‐controlled transient elastography (VCTE) has a high incidence of measurement error, improved criteria are needed. We aimed to develop criteria based on magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) even among patients with NAFLD.

Methods

We performed a cross‐sectional analysis of patients who had undergone MRE and/or VCTE as well as an esophagogastroduodenoscopy. The patients were classified as having either a low risk or a high risk of varices. The optimal cut‐offs for ruling out esophageal varices were calculated for the MRE and VCTE liver stiffness measurement (LSM), the platelet count in an estimation cohort, and the cut‐offs were then evaluated using validation cohorts composed of patients who had undergone only MRE or VCTE.

Results

The study included 627 patients (39% with NAFLD). The optimal cut‐off values for the MRE‐LSM and the platelet count were 4.2 kPa and 18.0 × 104/μL, respectively. An MRE‐LSM of 4.2 kPa plus a platelet count of 18.0 × 104/μL had a negative predictive value of 1.00 for both low‐risk plus high‐risk varices as well as for high‐risk varices in a validation cohort, enabling the presence of varices to be ruled out.

Conclusions

Magnetic resonance elastography might enable a safer avoidance of screening endoscopy, with a smaller measurement error, among patient populations with a high prevalence of NAFLD.
Ex vivo assessment of anchoring force of covered biflanged metal stent and covered self‐expandable metal stent for interventional endoscopic ultrasound
Authors: Tonozuka Ryosuke , Yunoki Shunji , Itoi Takao , Sofuni Atsushi , Tsuchiya Takayoshi , Ishii Kentaro , Tanaka Reina , Honjo Mitsuyoshi , Mukai Shuntaro , Fujita Mitsuru , Yamamoto Kenjiro , Asai Yasutsugu , Matsunami Yukitoshi , Kurosawa Takashi , Kojima Hiroyuki , Nagakawa Yuichi , Nagakawa Yoshiyasu
Published: June 2018

Background and Aims

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)‐guided transmural drainage using a covered biflanged metal stent (CBFMS) and a conventional tubular biliary covered self‐expandable metal stent (CSEMS) has recently been performed by EUS experts. However, appropriate traction force of the sheath to prevent the migration during stent deployment is well unknown. Herein, we assessed the anchoring force (AF) of the distal flange in CBFMSs and CSEMSs.

Methods

The AFs of four CBFMSs (Stents AX, NG, PL, and SX) and six CSEMSs (Stents BF, BP, EG, HN, SP, and WF) were compared in an ex vivo setting. We assessed the AF produced by each stent using an EUS‐guided transmural drainage model and an EUS‐guided hepaticogastrostomy model consisting of sheet‐shaped specimens of the stomach, gelatin gel, and gelatin tubes.

Results

For CBFMSs, the maximum AF of Stent AX was significantly higher than those of Stents PL and SX (P < 0.05) in the porcine model. In the gelatin series, all stents except Stent NG showed a nearly similar AF. For CSEMSs, Stents HN, EG, BF, and WF showed gradual AF elevation in the porcine stomach. Stents SP and BP showed a lower AF than the other four stents. For the gelatin setting, the maximum AF of Stents HN, EG, and WF was higher than those of the other stents regardless of the type of specimens.

Conclusions

The significance of the AF and traction distance according to the property of various CBFMSs and CSEMSs could be elucidated using ex vivo models.
Consumer Search, Incomplete Exchange Rate Pass‐Through, and Optimal Interest Rate Policy
Authors: COOKE DUDLEY
Published: June 2018

This paper studies utility‐maximizing monetary policy in a two‐country economy with consumer search frictions. Search frictions provide a microfoundation for incomplete exchange rate pass‐through and international deviations from the law of one price (LOP). I show that optimal interest rate policy targets deviations from the LOP and acts to mitigate the effect of search frictions. In a quantitative setting, with internationally correlated technology and preference shocks, optimal policy generates positive cross‐country correlation of nominal interest rates.
Participation of membrane progesterone receptor α in the inhibitory effect of progesterone on prolactin secretion
Authors: Camilletti M. A. , Ferraris J. , Abeledo‐Machado A. , Converse A. , Faraoni E. Y. , Pisera D. , Gutierrez S. , Thomas P. , Díaz‐Torga G.
Published: June 2018

The membrane progesterone receptors (mPRα, mPRβ, mPRγ, mPRδ and mPRε) are known to mediate rapid nongenomic progesterone functions in different cell types. However, the functions of these receptors in the pituitary have not been reported to date. In the present study, we show that the expression of mPRα was the highest among the mPRs in the rat anterior pituitary gland. Immunostaining of mPRα was detected in somatotrophs, gonadotrophs and lactotrophs. Interestingly, 63% of mPRα‐positive cells within the pituitary were lactotrophs, suggesting that mPRα is involved in controlling prolactin (PRL) secretion in the pituitary. To test this hypothesis, rat pituitaries were incubated (1 hour) with either progesterone (P4) or the mPRα‐specific agonist Org OD 02‐0. PRL secretion was then measured by radioimmunoassay. The results of this experiment revealed that both P4 and Org OD 02‐0 decreased PRL secretion. Moreover, the results from the GH3 cell line (CCL‐82.1) showed that P4 and Org OD 02‐0 inhibited PRL release, although the nuclear PR agonist R5020 was ineffective. Our investigation of the cellular mechanisms behind mPRα activity indicated that both P4 and Org OD 02‐0 decreased cAMP accumulation, whereas R5020 was ineffective. In addition, the Org OD 02‐0‐effect on PRL release was blocked by pretreatment with pertussis toxin, an inhibitor of Go/Gi proteins. Because transforming growth factor (TGF)β1 is a potent inhibitor of PRL secretion in lactotrophs, we lastly evaluated whether TGFβ1 was activated by progesterone and whether this effect was mediated by mPRα. Our results showed that P4 and Org OD 02‐0, but not R5020, increased active TGFβ1 levels. This effect was not observed when cells were transfected with mPRα‐small interfering RNA. Taken together, these data provide new evidence suggesting that mPRα mediates the progesterone inhibitory effect on PRL secretion through both decreases in cAMP levels and activation of TGFβ1 in the lactotroph population.
Improving equity and cultural responsiveness with marginalised communities: Understanding competing worldviews
Authors: Wilson Denise , Heaslip Vanessa , Jackson Debra
Published: June 2018

Aim

To explore the impact of culture on health, healthcare provision and its contribution towards health inequity experienced by some marginalised communities.

Background

Health inequity is a global issue, which occurs across and within countries, and is the greatest barrier to worldwide health and the development of the human race. In response to this challenge, there is an international commitment to ensure universal health coverage based on the fundamental principle that individuals should be able to access healthcare services they need. Despite this, there is clear evidence that indigenous and other cultural minorities such as New Zealand Māori and Gypsy Roma Travellers still experience far poorer health outcomes when compared to the majority population. Furthermore, when they do access health care, their experiences are often not positive and this in turn results in reluctance to access preventative health care, instead accessing health services much later, reducing treatment options and compounding higher mortality rates. What is often not explored or examined is the impact of the different cultural beliefs of individuals in these communities and the nurses caring for them.

Design

This is a position paper drawing upon research experience with New Zealand Māori and Gypsy Roma Travellers. We critically review the experiences of health inequity of marginalised communities. It does so by examining how these communities may have a different world view to the nurses caring for them, and it is this lack of understanding and valuing of alternative worldviews that contributes to the poorer health outcomes both communities face.

Conclusion and relevance to clinical practice

As nurses work with many different individuals and groups, we have to find ways of ensuring a more embracing, culturally responsive healthcare environment which respects and values the beliefs of others.
Lengthening of the photoperiod influences sleep characteristics before and during total sleep deprivation in rat
Authors: Sauvet Fabien , Gomez‐Merino Danielle , Dorey Rodolphe , Ciret Sylvain , Gallopin Thierry , Drogou Catherine , Arnal Pierrick J. , Chennaoui Mounir
Published: June 2018

The photoperiod has been evidenced to influence sleep regulation in the rat. Nevertheless, lengthening of the photoperiod beyond 30 days seems to have little effect on the 24‐hr baseline level of sleep and the response to total sleep deprivation. We studied the effects of 12:12 (habitual) and 16:8 (long) light–dark photoperiods on sleep, locomotor activity and body core temperature, before and after 24 hr of total sleep deprivation. Eight rats were submitted for 14 days to light–dark 12:12 (lights on: 08:00 hours–20:00 hours) followed by total sleep deprivation, and then for 14 days to light–dark 16:8 (light extended to 24:00 hours) followed by total sleep deprivation. Rats were simultaneously recorded for electroencephalogram, locomotor activity and body core temperature for 24 hr before and after total sleep deprivation. At baseline before total sleep deprivation, total sleep time and non‐rapid eye movement sleep per 24 hr and during extended light hours (20:00 hours–24:00 hours) were higher (13% for total sleep time) after light–dark exposure compared with habitual photoperiod, while percentage delta power in non‐rapid eye movements and rapid eye movements were unchanged. Locomotor activity and body core temperature were lower, particularly during extended light hours (20:00 hours–24:00 hours). Following total sleep deprivation, total sleep time and non‐rapid eye movements were significantly lower after long photoperiod between 20:00 hours and 24:00 hours, and between 10:00 hours and 12:00 hours, and unchanged per 24 hr. The percentage delta power in non‐rapid eye movements was lower between 08:00 hours and 11:00 hours. Total sleep deprivation decreased locomotor activity and body core temperature after habitual photoperiod exposure only. Fourteen days under long photoperiod (light–dark 16:8) increased non‐rapid eye movements sleep, and decreased sleep rebound related to total sleep deprivation (lower non‐rapid eye movements duration and delta power). This may create a model of sleep extension for the rat that has been found to favour anabolism in the brain and the periphery.
Emotional facial expressions during REM sleep dreams
Authors: Rivera‐García Ana P. , López Ruiz Irma E. , Ramírez‐Salado Ignacio , González‐Olvera Jorge J. , Ayala‐Guerrero Fructuoso , Jiménez‐Anguiano Anabel
Published: June 2018

Although motor activity is actively inhibited during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, specific activations of the facial mimetic musculature have been observed during this stage, which may be associated with greater emotional dream mentation. Nevertheless, no specific biomarker of emotional valence or arousal related to dream content has been identified to date. In order to explore the electromyographic (EMG) activity (voltage, number, density and duration) of the corrugator and zygomaticus major muscles during REM sleep and its association with emotional dream mentation, this study performed a series of experimental awakenings after observing EMG facial activations during REM sleep. The study was performed with 12 healthy female participants using an 8‐hr nighttime sleep recording. Emotional tone was evaluated by five blinded judges and final valence and intensity scores were obtained. Emotions were mentioned in 80.4% of dream reports. The voltage, number, density and duration of facial muscle contractions were greater for the corrugator muscle than for the zygomaticus muscle, whereas high positive emotions predicted the number (R2 0.601, p = 0.0001) and voltage (R2 0.332, p = 0.005) of the zygomaticus. Our findings suggest that zygomaticus events were predictive of the experience of positive affect during REM sleep in healthy women.
Beyond Statistical Learning: Communication Principles and Language Internal Factors Shape Grammar in Child and Adult Beginners Learning Polish Through Controlled Exposure
Authors: Dimroth Christine
Published: June 2018

This study investigated the predictions of two approaches to second language acquisition. According to the usage‐based approach, learner knowledge results from the strengths and weaknesses of input‐driven statistical learning. According to the learner‐varieties approach, pragmatic communication principles and language‐internal constraints play major roles in language development. For this study, novice child and adult learners of Polish (speakers of Italian or German) attended several controlled‐exposure sessions and retold a story after 14 hours of target language contact. Analyses focused on form–function associations in the learners’ production data and on comparisons with properties of the input that the learners had encountered. In addition to support for input‐driven factors, there was evidence for a uniform syntax, for individual creative constructions, and for reinterpreted morphological variation, pointing to an influence of communication principles and to an effect of system‐internal factors. Findings revealed differences due to learners’ age but not their language background.
Methodological nationalism and the politics of history‐writing: how imaginary scholarship perpetuates the nation
Authors: Vasilev George
Published: June 2018

The aim of this article is to contribute a greater understanding of the processes by which nationalism passes by unnoticed in research and distorts knowledge about the past. It identifies four narrative practices typical of methodologically nationalist history‐writing and explains why they should be rejected as dubious scholarship. These are: concept overstretch; selection bias; the misrepresentation of governing bodies; and the conflation of culture with identity. It is argued that each functions as a hidden authentication route, entrenching nation‐centric understandings of the past as valid perspectives in scholarly discourses under the legitimating cover of scientific protocol. By increasing awareness around methodological nationalism in history‐writing, this article serves at least two normative purposes. First, it emphasises the reflectiveness required for analysts to avoid co‐option by ideology. Second, it functions as a critical vantage point for dispelling misunderstandings that fuel interstate disputes, interethnic tensions, and the oppression of minorities among populations understanding themselves as heirs to timelessly national property.
Anaplastic ganglioglioma with epithelioid cell components
Authors: Murakami Chiaki , Yamazaki Tatsuya , Shintoku Ryosuke , Aihara Masanori , Yoshimoto Yuhei , Matsumura Nozomi , Nobusawa Sumihito , Ikota Hayato , Hirato Junko , Yokoo Hideaki
Published: June 2018

A 40‐year‐old man was admitted to our hospital because of disorientation and mild left‐sided weakness. Radiological examination revealed a solid and cystic tumor in the right temporal lobe, and total resection was performed. Histologically, the tumor was composed mainly of low‐grade gangiloglioma and had some high‐grade glial components with focal necrosis and microvascular proliferations. In the high‐grade component, there were epithelioid cells with round cytoplasm and eccentric nuclei. The high‐grade area with epithelioid cells was intermingled within the low‐grade area, which suggests that epithelioid cells were an anaplastic transformation of ganglioglioma. The epithelioid cells were histologically similar to neoplastic cells of epithelioid glioblastoma (E‐GBM), a rare aggressive variant of isocitric dehydrogenase wild‐type glioblastoma. A BRAF V600E mutation, frequently observed in E‐GBM, was detected in both the ganglioglioma and epithelioid cell components. The epithelioid cells were mitotically active, which suggests that if the surgery was delayed, the histological appearance might have eventually evolved into E‐GBM. Indeed, a case of pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma which transformed into E‐GBM after a long latency was reported elsewhere. This is the first report to describe focal epithelioid cells in anaplastic ganglioglioma.
Temperature and photoperiod drive spring phenology across all species in a temperate forest community
Authors: Flynn D. F. B. , Wolkovich E. M.
Published: June 2018

Accurate predictions of spring plant phenology with climate change are critical for projections of growing seasons, plant communities and a number of ecosystem services, including carbon storage. Progress towards prediction, however, has been slow because the major cues known to drive phenology – temperature (including winter chilling and spring forcing) and photoperiod – generally covary in nature and may interact, making accurate predictions of plant responses to climate change complex and nonlinear. Alternatively, recent work suggests many species may be dominated by one cue, which would make predictions much simpler.

Here, we manipulated all three cues across 28 woody species from two North American forests.

All species responded to all cues examined. Chilling exerted a strong effect, especially on budburst (−15.8 d), with responses to forcing and photoperiod greatest for leafout (−19.1 and −11.2 d, respectively). Interactions between chilling and forcing suggest that each cue may compensate somewhat for the other. Cues varied across species, leading to staggered leafout within each community and supporting the idea that phenology is a critical aspect of species' temporal niches.

Our results suggest that predicting the spring phenology of communities will be difficult, as all species we studied could have complex, nonlinear responses to future warming.
Alteration of macrophage viability, differentiation, and function by bisphosphonates
Authors: Patntirapong Somying , Poolgesorn Mahatana
Published: June 2018

Background

A serious adverse effect of long‐term bisphosphonate (BP) administration is bisphosphonate‐related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ). Among different proposed pathogenesis, suppression of immune cells is gaining interest. Because monocytes/macrophages could get access to BP since residing in the blood and bone microenvironment, the aim of this study was to analyze the behaviors of macrophages after BP treatments in vitro.

Methods

THP‐1 cell, an established human monocytic cell model, was used in this study. The effects of BPs, alendronate (ALN) and zoledronic acid (ZA), on macrophage viability, differentiation, and function were investigated. MTT, morphological analysis, flow cytometry, quantitative PCR, and gelatin zymography assay were performed.

Results

BPs impaired macrophage viability at almost all concentration tested (1–100 μM). Cell morphology was altered in the presence of 100 μM BPs. Furthermore, differentiating macrophage viability was also affected by both ALN and ZA at 100 and 10–100 μM, respectively. At high concentration (100 μM), ZA caused a reduction in cell differentiation. On the contrary, ALN and ZA increased matrix metalloproteinase mRNA expressions and activities at low doses (1–10 μM).

Conclusion

BPs directly acted on macrophage by reducing macrophage survival, inducing morphological alterations, impairing differentiation from monocytes to macrophages, and affecting macrophage function at both mRNA and activity levels.