bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accurate detection of convergent amino-acid evolution with PCOC
Authors: Rey Carine , Guéguen Laurent , Sémon Marie , Boussau Bastien
Published: January 2018

In the history of life, some phenotypes have been acquired several times independently, through convergent evolution. Recently, lots of genome-scale studies have been devoted to identify nucleotides or amino acids that changed in a convergent manner when the convergent phenotypes evolved. These efforts have had mixed results, probably because of differences in the detection methods, and because of conceptual differences about the definition of a convergent substitution. Some methods contend that substitutions are convergent only if they occur on all branches where the phenotype changed towards the exact same state at a given nucleotide or amino acid position. Others are much looser in their requirements and define a convergent substitution as one that leads the site at which they occur to prefer a phylogeny in which species with the convergent phenotype group together. Here we suggest to look for convergent shifts in amino acid preferences instead of convergent substitutions to the exact same amino acid. We define as convergent shifts substitutions that occur on all branches where the phenotype changed and such that they correspond to a change in the type of amino acid preferred at this position. We implement the corresponding model into a method named PCOC. We show on simulations that PCOC better recovers convergent shifts than existing methods in terms of sensitivity and specificity. We test it on a plant protein alignment where convergent evolution has been studied in detail and find that our method recovers several previously identified convergent substitutions and proposes credible new candidates.
How the Central American Seaway and an ancient northern passage affected flatfish diversification
Authors: Byrne Lisa , Chapleau François , Aris-Brosou Stéphane
Published: January 2018

While the natural history of flatfish has been debated for decades, the mode of diversification of this biologically and economically important group has never been elucidated. To address this question, we assembled the largest molecular data set to date, covering > 300 species (out of ca. 800 extant), from 13 of the 14 known families over nine genes, and employed relaxed molecular clocks to uncover their patterns of diversification. As the fossil record of flatfish is contentious, we used sister species distributed on both sides of the American continent to calibrate clock models based on the closure of the Central American Seaway (CAS), and on their current species range. We show that flatfish diversified in two bouts, as species that are today distributed around the Equator diverged during the closure of CAS, while those with a northern range diverged after this, hereby suggesting the existence of a post-CAS closure dispersal for these northern species, most likely along a trans-Arctic northern route, a hypothesis fully compatible with paleogeographic reconstructions.
A robust method for RNA extraction and purification from a single adult mouse tendon
Authors: Grinstein M , Dingwall HL , Shah RR , Capellini TD , Galloway JL
Published: January 2018

Background

Mechanistic understanding of tendon molecular and cellular biology is crucial towards furthering our abilities to design new therapies for tendon and ligament injuries and disease. Recent transcriptomic and epigenomic studies in the field have harnessed the power of mouse genetics to reveal new insights into tendon biology. However, many mouse studies pool tendon tissues or use amplification methods to perform RNA analysis, which can significantly increase the experimental costs and limit the ability to detect changes in expression of low copy transcripts.

Methods

Single Achilles tendons were harvested from uninjured, contralateral injured, and wild type mice between 3-5 months of age, and RNA was extracted. RNA Integrity Number (RIN) and concentration were determined, and RT-qPCR gene expression analysis was performed.

Results

After testing several RNA extraction approaches on single adult mouse Achilles tendons, we developed a protocol that was successful at obtaining high RIN and sufficient concentrations suitable for RNA analysis. We found that the RNA quality was sensitive to the time between tendon harvest and homogenization, and the RNA quality and concentration was dependent on the duration of homogenization. Using this method, we demonstrate that analysis of Scx gene expression in single mouse tendons reduces the biological variation caused by pooling tendons from multiple mice. We also show successful use of this approach to analyze Sox9 and Col1a2 gene expression changes in injured compared with uninjured control tendons.

Discussion

Our work presents a robust, cost-effective, and straightforward method to extract high quality RNA from a single adult mouse Achilles tendon at sufficient amounts for RNA-seq and RT-qPCR. We show this can reduce biological variation and decrease the overall costs associated with experiments. This approach can also be applied to other skeletal tissues as well as precious human samples.
Mixing is required for uniform reconstitution of filter-dried protein antigens in a single-injection vaccine formulation
Authors: Thangsupanimitchai Napawan , Edwards Alexander D.
Published: January 2018

Ambient temperature filter dried vaccine formulations have been proposed to simultaneously achieve thermostability and offer a ready-to-use immunisation device that combines reconstitution and injection. Vaccine concentration should be uniform at the point of injection, but the uniformity following direct reconstitution of filter-dried vaccines has not been reported. We present here a study of vaccine mixing and release following dissolution of filter-dried model protein and toxoid antigens within a single syringe, filter and needle unit. Release was better for filters made from glass than cellulose. Without additional mixing, uniformity was poor and only 41% of input protein was released from protein filter-dried onto glass fibre. In contrast, adding a simple glass bead and mixing by inversion, 100% release antigen solution was achieved, with uniform concentration at exit from the needle throughout a simulated injection. Adsorption onto alum adjuvant had no detectable effect on vaccine dissolution and mixing. The uniformity and yield of low doses of diphtheria and tetanus toxoid was also improved by mixing, albeit with a lower yield of 60-68%. We conclude that uniformity and mixing should be studied to ensure safety and efficacy of directly reconstituted filter-dried vaccine formulations.
The Promise and Perils of Crowdfunding: Between Corporate Finance and Consumer Contracts
Authors: Armour John , Enriques Luca
Published: January 2018

‘Crowdfunding’ is a burgeoning phenomenon. Its still‐evolving status is reflected in diversity of contracting practices: for example, ‘equity’ crowdfunders invest in shares, whereas ‘reward’ crowdfunders get advance units of product. These practices occupy a hinterland between existing regimes of securities law and consumer contract law. Consumer protection law in the UK (but not the US) imposes mandatory terms that impede risk‐sharing in reward crowdfunding, whereas US (but not UK) securities law mandates expensive disclosures that hinder equity crowdfunding. This article suggests that while crowdfunding poses real risks for funders, the classical regulatory techniques of securities and consumer law provide an ineffective response. Yet, a review of rapidly‐developing market mechanisms suggests they may provide meaningful protection for funders. An initially permissive regulatory approach, open to learning from market developments yet with a credible threat of intervention should markets fail to protect consumers, is justified.
Frozen Corpses and Feuding Parents: Re JS (Disposal of Body)
Authors: Conway Heather
Published: January 2018

In October 2016, a dying teenager won the legal right to have her remains cryogenically frozen and stored indefinitely in an American clinic. The cryonics aspect was novel, posing questions around the legality of this particular method of corpse ‘disposal’ in the UK and the processes involved. More significantly, the case raises other substantive legal issues around the fate of the dead, including the status of funeral instructions under English law, and how courts adjudicate parental disputes over the funeral arrangements for a dead child.
Residues in the analyst of the patient's symbiotic connection at a somatic level: unrepresented states in the patient and analyst
Authors: Godsil Geraldine
Published: January 2018

This paper discusses the residues of a somatic countertransference that revealed its meaning several years after apparently successful analytic work had ended. Psychoanalytic and Jungian analytic ideas on primitive communication, dissociation and enactment are explored in the working through of a shared respiratory symptom between patient and analyst. Growth in the analyst was necessary so that the patient's communication at a somatic level could be understood. Bleger's concept that both the patient's and analyst's body are part of the setting was central in the working through.
The analyst's Rorschach: gateway to opening the dialectical field
Authors: Alexy William
Published: January 2018

The author offers an account of his evolving relationship with the Rorschach test which for over 20 years as a private practice psychologist, he used in his clinical practice with the intent of mining patients’ psyches for useful information about personality organization and functioning. Coinciding with having found himself on the homestretch of analytic training and during a time when he desired clarity on how Rorschach assessment and Jungian analysis could fruitfully merge, there was an unexpected shift in emphasis wherein the Rorschach suddenly became a method for looking at himself as well. This challenge to identify and integrate aspects of self hitherto neglected was found to enrich his clinical practice. An historical perspective on this experience is offered which highlights the enigmatic relationship that existed between Carl Jung and Hermann Rorschach. The proverbial question of ‘What might this be?’ has been asked when administering the Rorschach for nearly a century. From an analytic perspective, the question is more fully and meaningfully asked when the person doing the asking has also been willing to step in, look around, and take notice of what happens.
Disrupted narrative and narrative symbol
Authors: Vuletić Georgije
Published: January 2018

In this article a specific type of narrative, which often appears in analytic sessions, is discussed. It is characterized by a seemingly ordinary, everyday topic and by a peculiar disruption of the narrative flow. The threefold structure of this type of narrative is described, along with its main characteristics. One element of this type of narrative is very similar to symbolic content or complex symbolic structures, e.g. dreams, the sort of material that can be used for the purpose of interpretation. The similarities as well as the differences are elaborated in the article. Thanks to the observed general structure and ‘symbolic’ nature of some parts of the narrative, it is easy to notice some of the unconscious elements, which are not familiar to the patient's ego, and to make an interpretation. Because these elements are close to the threshold of consciousness, the patient willingly accepts an interpretation based on them. This is especially true for patients whose dominant function is thinking. A temporary, working name for this type of narrative is proposed in the article: ‘disrupted narrative’ − and for its disruptive part ‘narrative symbol’.
C. G. Jung and intuition: from the mindscape of the paranormal to the heart of psychology
Authors: Pilard Nathalie
Published: January 2018

Intuition is central in the work, practice, and philosophical legacy of C. G. Jung. In this paper, I will first discuss the importance of intuition for Jung in the paradigm usually designated the ‘paranormal’. Jung was attracted to intuition as an extra‐ordinary gift or function in the traditional sense, and this is considered here in relation to his 1896‐1899 Zofingia Lectures and 1902 On the Psychology and Pathology of So‐called Occult Phenomena: A Psychiatric Study. A significant development then occurred in 1913, when esotericist intuitions were turned toward psychological use with Jung's Red Book. There, his personal and private use of intuition – and we know how extraordinarily intuitive he was – led Jung to fully incorporate intuition at the core of his psychology. Not only in his practice, in the crucial intuitive form of empathy, but as we will see, also at the very heart of his theory. In 1921, Jung wrote Psychological Types, where intuition became one – the first – of the four fundamental functions and types of the psyche next to thinking, feeling, and sensation. In 1921, Jung proved to the world in rational argument that intuition was no longer a psychologist's hobby for table turning, but the most significant function of the psyche.
Correlation of dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI derived volume transfer constant with histological angiogenic markers in high‐grade gliomas
Authors: Di Ningning , Yao Chenjun , Cheng Wenna , Ren Yan , Qu Jianxun , Wang Bin , Yao Zhenwei
Published: January 2018

Introduction

To ascertain if the volume transfer constant (Ktrans) derived from T1 dynamic contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE‐MRI) correlates with the immunohistological markers of angiogenesis in high‐grade gliomas.

Methods

Fifty‐one image‐guided biopsy specimens in 34 patients with newly presenting high‐grade gliomas (grade III = 16; grade IV = 18) underwent preoperative imaging (conventional imaging and T1 DCE‐MRI). We correlated vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression and the microvessel density (MVD) of MRI‐guided biopsy specimens with the corresponding DCE‐derived Ktrans. Histological sections were stained with VEGF and CD34, and examined under light microscopy. These histological and molecular markers of angiogenesis were correlated with the Ktrans of the region of interest corresponding to the biopsy specimen.

Results

The Ktrans showed a significant positive correlation with VEGF expression (ρ = 0.582, P = 0.001) but not with MVD stained with CD34 antibody (ρ = 0.328, P = 0.072).

Conclusion

The Ktrans derived from DCE‐MRI can reflect the VEGF expression of high‐grade gliomas but not the MVD.
The New Dynamics of the International Trading System
Authors: Albertoni Nicolás
Published: January 2018

These two books motivate us to think more broadly and ask new questions related to the current trading system. For instance, why has free trade become so unpopular in the last decade? What are the reasons behind this unpopularity and what should be done to fix it?
“Economic Policies Are the Best Social Policies”: West German Neoliberalism and the Housing Question After 1945
Authors: Haderer Margaret
Published: January 2018

This article challenges the widespread view that neoliberalism had become hegemonic in the late 20th century by zooming into a less well‐known variant of neoliberalism, German ordoliberalism, whose political ascendency dates back to the 1940s and 1950s. Through the lens of post‐WWII housing policies—a central field of political intervention after 1945—this article focuses on the remaking of social policies as neoliberal policies in West Germany, a remake that rendered the market economy a key source of political legitimacy of the newly emerging, liberal democracy.
How does dose impact on the severity of food‐induced allergic reactions, and can this improve risk assessment for allergenic foods?
Authors: Dubois A. E. J. , Turner P. J. , Hourihane J. , Ballmer‐Weber B. , Beyer K. , Chan C.‐H. , Gowland M. H. , O'Hagan S. , Regent L. , Remington B. , Schnadt S. , Stroheker T. , Crevel R. W. R.
Published: January 2018

Quantitative risk assessment (QRA) for food allergens has made considerable progress in recent years, yet acceptability of its outcomes remains stymied because of the limited extent to which it has been possible to incorporate severity as a variable. Reaction severity, particularly following accidental exposure, depends on multiple factors, related to the allergen, the host and any treatments, which might be administered. Some of these factors are plausibly still unknown. Quantitative risk assessment shows that limiting exposure through control of dose reduces the rates of reactions in allergic populations, but its impact on the relative frequency of severe reactions at different doses is unclear. Food challenge studies suggest that the relationship between dose of allergenic food and reaction severity is complex even under relatively controlled conditions. Because of these complexities, epidemiological studies provide very limited insight into this aspect of the dose‐response relationship. Emerging data from single‐dose challenges suggest that graded food challenges may overestimate the rate of severe reactions. It may be necessary to generate new data (such as those from single‐dose challenges) to reliably identify the effect of dose on severity for use in QRA. Success will reduce uncertainty in the susceptible population and improve consumer choice.
Outdoor pollen is a trigger of child and adolescent asthma emergency department presentations: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Erbas B. , Jazayeri M. , Lambert K. A. , Katelaris C. H. , Prendergast L. A. , Tham R. , Parrodi M. J. , Davies J. , Newbigin E. , Abramson M. J. , Dharmage S. C.
Published: January 2018

Background

In the context of increased asthma exacerbations associated with climatic changes such as thunderstorm asthma, interest in establishing the link between pollen exposure and asthma hospital admissions has intensified. Here, we systematically reviewed and performed a meta‐analysis of studies on pollen and emergency department (ED) attendance.

Methods

A search for studies with appropriate search strategy in MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science and CINAHL was conducted. Each study was assessed for quality and risk of bias. The available evidence was summarized both qualitatively and meta‐analysed using random‐effects models when moderate heterogeneity was observed.

Results

Fourteen studies were included. The pollen taxa investigated differed between studies, allowing meta‐analysis only of the effect of grass pollen. A statistically significant increase in the percentage change in the mean number of asthma ED presentations (MPC) (pooled results from 3 studies) was observed for an increase in 10 grass pollen grains per cubic metre of exposure 1.88% (95% CI = 0.94%, 2.82%). Time series studies showed positive correlations between pollen concentrations and ED presentations. Age‐stratified studies found strongest associations in children aged 5‐17 years old.

Conclusion

Exposure to ambient grass pollen is an important trigger for childhood asthma exacerbations requiring ED attendance. As pollen exposure is increasingly a problem especially in relation to thunderstorm asthma, studies with uniform measures of pollen and similar analytical methods are necessary to fully understand its impact on human health.
Prevalence, severity, and risk factors for acute exacerbations of nasal and sinus symptoms by chronic rhinosinusitis status
Authors: Kuiper J. R. , Hirsch A. G. , Bandeen‐Roche K. , Sundaresan A. S. , Tan B. K. , Schleimer R. P. , Kern R. C. , Stewart W. F. , Schwartz B. S.
Published: January 2018

Background

Nasal and sinus symptoms (NSS) are common to many health conditions, including chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). Few studies have investigated the occurrence and severity of, and risk factors for, acute exacerbations of NSS (AENSS) by CRS status (current, past, or never met European Position Paper on Rhinosinusitis [EPOS] criteria for CRS).

Methods

Four seasonal questionnaires were mailed to a stratified random sample of Geisinger primary care patients. Logistic regression was used to identify individual characteristics associated with AENSS occurrence and severity by CRS status (current long‐term, current recent, past, never) using EPOS subjective symptoms‐only (EPOSS) CRS criteria. We operationalized 3 AENSS definitions based on prescribed antibiotics or oral corticosteroids, symptoms, and symptoms with purulence.

Results

Baseline and at least 1 follow‐up questionnaires were available from 4736 subjects. Self‐reported NSS severity with exacerbation was worst in the current long‐term CRS group. AENSS was common in all subgroups examined and generally more common among those with current EPOSS CRS. Seasonal prevalence of AENSS differed by AENSS definition and CRS status. Associations of risk factors with AENSS differed by definition, but CRS status, body mass index, asthma, hay fever, sinus surgery history, and winter season consistently predicted AENSS.

Conclusions

In this first longitudinal, population‐based study of 3 AENSS definitions, NSS and AENSS were both common, sometimes severe, and differed by EPOSS CRS status. Contrasting associations of risk factors for AENSS by the different definitions suggest a need for a standardized approach to definition of AENSS.
Mitochondrial respiratory capacity remains stable despite a comprehensive and sustained increase in insulin sensitivity in obese patients undergoing gastric bypass surgery
Authors: Lund M. T. , Larsen S. , Hansen M. , Courraud J. , Floyd A. K. , Støckel M. , Helge J. W. , Dela F.
Published: January 2018

Aim

It has been proposed, but not yet demonstrated by convincing evidence in published articles, that insulin resistance and mitochondrial respiratory function are causally related physiological phenomena. Here, we tested the prediction that weight loss–induced increase in insulin sensitivity will correlate with a corresponding change in mitochondrial respiratory capacity over the same time period.

Methods

Insulin sensitivity was evaluated using the hyperinsulinaemic‐euglycaemic clamp technique, and skeletal muscle mitochondrial respiratory capacity was evaluated by high‐resolution respirometry in 26 patients with obesity. Each experiment was performed ~2 months and 1‐2 weeks before, and ~4 and ~19 months after Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery.

Results

A substantial weight loss was observed in all patients, and insulin sensitivity increased in all patients over the 21‐months time period of the study. In contrast, skeletal muscle mitochondrial respiratory capacity, intrinsic mitochondrial respiratory capacity and mitochondrial content remained unchanged over the same time period.

Conclusion

Among obese patients with and without type 2 diabetes undergoing RYGB surgery, intrinsic mitochondrial respiratory capacity in skeletal muscle is not correlated with insulin sensitivity before or after the surgical intervention. Mitochondrial respiratory function may not be germane to the pathophysiology and/or aetiology of obesity and/or type 2 diabetes.
Unique anti‐myeloma activity by thiazolidine‐2,4‐dione compounds with Pim inhibiting activity
Authors: Fujii Shiro , Nakamura Shingen , Oda Asuka , Miki Hirokazu , Tenshin Hirofumi , Teramachi Jumpei , Hiasa Masahiro , Bat‐Erdene Ariunzaya , Maeda Yusaku , Oura Masahiro , Takahashi Mamiko , Iwasa Masami , Endo Itsuro , Yoshida Sumiko , Aihara Ken‐ichi , Kurahashi Kiyoe , Harada Takeshi , Kagawa Kumiko , Nakao Michiyasu , Sano Shigeki , Abe Masahiro
Published: January 2018

Proviral Integrations of Moloney virus 2 (PIM2) is overexpressed in multiple myeloma (MM) cells, and regarded as an important therapeutic target. Here, we aimed to validate the therapeutic efficacy of different types of PIM inhibitors against MM cells for their possible clinical application. Intriguingly, the thiazolidine‐2,4‐dione‐family compounds SMI‐16a and SMI‐4a reduced PIM2 protein levels and impaired MM cell survival preferentially in acidic conditions, in contrast to other types of PIM inhibitors, including AZD1208, CX‐6258 and PIM447. SMI‐16a also suppressed the drug efflux function of breast cancer resistance protein, minimized the sizes of side populations and reduced in vitro colony‐forming capacity and in vivo tumourigenic activity in MM cells, suggesting impairment of their clonogenic capacity. PIM2 is known to be subject to ubiquitination‐independent proteasomal degradation. Consistent with this, the proteasome inhibitors bortezomib and carfilzomib increased PIM2 protein levels in MM cells without affecting its mRNA levels. However, SMI‐16a mitigated the PIM2 protein increase and cooperatively enhanced anti‐MM effects in combination with carfilzomib. Collectively, the thiazolidine‐2,4‐dione‐family compounds SMI‐16a and SMI‐4a uniquely reduce PIM2 protein in MM cells, which may contribute to their profound efficacy in addition to their immediate kinase inhibition. Their combination with proteasome inhibitors is envisioned.
Component‐resolved diagnostics to direct in venom immunotherapy: Important steps towards precision medicine
Authors: Blank S. , Bilò M. B. , Ollert M.
Published: January 2018

Stings of Hymenoptera can induce IgE‐mediated systemic and even fatal allergic reactions. Venom‐specific immunotherapy (VIT) is the only disease‐modifying and curative treatment of venom allergy. However, choosing the correct venom for VIT represents a necessary prerequisite for efficient protection against further anaphylactic sting reactions after VIT. In the past, therapeutic decisions based on the measurement of specific IgE (sIgE) levels to whole venom extracts were not always straightforward, especially when the patient was not able to identify the culprit insect. In the last years, the increasing knowledge about the molecular structure and relevance of important venom allergens and their availability as recombinant allergens, devoid of cross‐reactive carbohydrate determinants, resulted in the development of an advanced component‐resolved diagnostics (CRD) approach in venom allergy. Already to date, CRD has increased the sensitivity of sIgE detection and enabled the discrimination between primary sensitization and cross‐reactivity, particularly in patients with sensitization to both honeybee and vespid venom. Hence, CRD in many patients improves the selection of the appropriate immunotherapeutic intervention. Moreover, the detailed knowledge about sensitization profiles on a molecular level might open new options to identify patients who are at increased risk of side‐effects or not to respond to immunotherapy. Therefore, increasing potential of CRD becomes evident, to direct therapeutic decisions in a personalized and patient‐tailored manner. Reviewed here are the state of the art options, recent developments and future perspectives of CRD of Hymenoptera venom allergy.
Prenatal maternal psychosocial stress and offspring's asthma and allergic disease: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Flanigan C. , Sheikh A. , DunnGalvin A. , Brew B. K. , Almqvist C. , Nwaru B. I.
Published: January 2018

Background

Prenatal maternal stress may influence offspring's atopic risk through sustained cortisol secretion resulting from activation of the hypothalamic‐pituitary axis (HPA), leading to Th2‐biased cell differentiation in the foetus. We undertook a systematic review and meta‐analysis investigating the relationship between prenatal maternal psychosocial stress and risk of asthma and allergy in the offspring.

Methods

We searched 11 electronic databases from 1960 to 2016, searched the grey literature and contacted experts in the field. Type of stress indicator included mood disorders, anxiety, exposure to violence, bereavement and socio‐economic problems occurring during pregnancy, both objectively and subjectively measured. We included all possible asthma and IgE‐mediated allergy outcomes. We conducted random‐effects meta‐analyses to synthesize the data.

Results

We identified 9779 papers of which 30 studies (enrolling >6 million participants) satisfied inclusion criteria. The quality of 25 studies was moderate, 4 were strong, and one was weak. Maternal exposure to any type of stressors was associated with an increased risk of offspring atopic eczema/dermatitis (OR 1.34, 95% CI 1.22‐1.47), allergic rhinitis (OR 1.30, 95% CI 1.04‐1.62), wheeze (OR 1.34, 95% CI 1.16‐1.54) and asthma (OR 1.15, 95% CI 1.04‐1.27). Exposure to anxiety and depression had strongest effect compared to other stressors. Exposure during the third trimester had the greatest impact compared to first and second trimesters. The increased risk was stronger for early‐onset and persistent than for late‐onset wheeze. Bereavement of a child (HR 1.28, 95% CI 1.10‐1.48) or a spouse (HR 1.40, 95% CI 1.03‐1.90) increased the risk of offspring asthma.

Conclusions

Exposure to prenatal maternal psychosocial stress was associated with increased risk, albeit modestly, of asthma and allergy in the offspring. The pronounced risk during the third trimester may represent cumulative stress exposure throughout pregnancy rather than trimester‐specific effect. Our findings may represent a causal effect or a result of inherent biases in studies, particularly residual confounding.
Current management of small bowel obstruction in the UK: results from the National Audit of Small Bowel Obstruction clinical practice survey
Authors: Lee M. J. , Sayers A. E. , Wilson T. R. , Acheson A. G. , Anderson I. D. , Fearnhead N. S. ,   the NASBO Steering Group
Published: January 2018

Aim

Small bowel obstruction (SBO) is associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality. The National Audit of Small Bowel Obstruction (NASBO) is a collaboration between trainees and specialty associations to improve the care of patients with SBO through national clinical audit. The aim of this study was to define current consultant practice preferences in the management of SBO in the UK.

Method

A survey was designed to assess practice preferences of consultant surgeons. The anonymous survey captured demographics, indications for surgery or conservative management, use of investigations including water‐soluble contrast agents (WSCA), use of laparoscopy and nutritional support strategies. The questionnaire underwent two pilot rounds prior to dissemination via the NASBO network.

Results

A total of 384 responses were received from 131 NASBO participating units (overall response rate 29.2%). Abdominal CT and serum urea and electrolytes were considered essential initial investigations by more than 80% of consultants. Consensus was demonstrated on indications for early surgery and conservative management. Three hundred and thirty‐eight (88%) respondents would consider use of WSCA; of these, 328 (97.1%) would use it in adhesive SBO. Two hundred (52.1%) consultants considered a laparoscopic approach when operating for SBO. Oral nutritional supplements were favoured in operatively managed patients by 259 (67.4%) respondents compared with conservatively managed patients (186 respondents, 48.4%).

Conclusion

This survey demonstrates consensus on imaging requirements and indications for early surgery in the management of SBO. Significant variation exists around awareness of the need for nutritional support in patients with SBO, and on strategies to achieve this support.
A case of radiation‐induced osteosarcoma of the skull presenting as a cutaneous epidermotropic tumor with a short latent period
Authors: Rashidghamat Elham , Calonje Jaime Eduardo
Published: January 2018

Radiation‐induced sarcoma (RIS) is an unusual but well documented tumor. The frequency of RIS of the head and neck region has been reported as 0.143%. In the literature the median interval between irradiation and development of sarcoma is 11 years. Cases of RIS with a short latent period, that is, less than 4 years are rare. We report a case of a 34‐year‐old female who developed an osteosarcoma of the scalp, over a previous craniotomy scar, 3 years after excision of a frontal anaplastic oligodendroglioma which had been followed by a course of 6 weeks radiotherapy (58 Gy) and 6 cycles of temozolomide. The histological features were those of a high‐grade osteosarcoma with epidermotropism of tumor cells. Lymph nodes were partially replaced by high‐grade metastatic osteosarcoma, with extra‐nodal lymphatic tumor thrombi. To our knowledge the only other case report of post‐radiation osteosarcoma with a short latency period was a case of osteosarcoma in the craniofacial bone 3 years after radiotherapy for maxillary squamous cell carcinoma. The histological finding of prominent replacement of the epidermis by osteosarcoma has not been reported before.
Dermatomyositis: Histopathologic findings of parakeratosis and dermal edema revisited
Authors: Levy Lauren , Layher Heather , McNiff Jennifer M. , Ko Christine J.
Published: January 2018

The cutaneous manifestations of dermatomyositis range from classical in the case of heliotrope rash and Gottron papules to less common papulosquamous and edematous/vesiculobullous lesions; histopathologic descriptions are dominated by interface dermatitis. We present a case of dermatomyositis with a combination of common and rare skin findings, both clinically and histologically. Increased awareness of papulosquamous and edematous lesions of dermatomyositis can help direct patient care. Although uncommon, confluent parakeratosis and dermal edema can be manifestations of dermatomyositis.
Medizinische Anwendungen von nicht‐thermischem Atmosphärendruckplasma in der Dermatologie
Authors: Gan Lu , Zhang Song , Poorun Devesh , Liu Dawei , Lu Xinpei , He Mengwen , Duan Xiaoru , Chen Hongxiang
Published: January 2018

Plasma ist ein ionisiertes Gas, das aus positiv und negativ geladenen Teilchen, neutralen Atomen und Photonen zusammengesetzt ist. Neueste Entwicklungen bei Plasmaquellen haben es möglich gemacht, Plasma in Raumtemperatur „open air“ zu erzeugen und so die Anwendung von Plasma in vivo zu ermöglichen. Bei der Verwendung von nicht‐thermischem Plasma können die Wirkstoffe effektiv an die Zielzellen verbracht werden, ohne thermischen Schaden zu verursachen. Nicht‐thermisches Atmosphärendruck‐Plasma, auch bekannt als kaltes Atmosphärendruck‐Plasma (cold atmospheric pressure plasma, CAP), ermöglicht innovative medizinische Anwendungen und hat diesbezüglich auch in der Dermatologie große Aufmerksamkeit erlangt. Die komplexe und variable Mischung der Wirkstoffe im Plasma – überwiegend reaktive Sauerstoff‐ und Stickstoffspezies (ROS, RNS) – können komplexe biologische Reaktionen steuern oder auslösen und so die gewünschten Wirkungen dosisabhängig erzielen. Ziel dieser Übersichtsarbeit ist es, potenzielle dermatologische Anwendungen von Plasma darzustellen und seine möglichen Wirkmechanismen zu analysieren.
Molekulare Epidemiologie von Trichophyton quinckeanum – ein zoophiler Dermatophyt im Aufwind
Authors: Uhrlaß Silke , Schroedl Wieland , Mehlhorn Carolin , Krüger Constanze , Hubka Vit , Maier Thomas , Gräser Yvonne , Paasch Uwe , Nenoff Pietro
Published: January 2018

Hintergrund

Entsprechend der aktualisierten Taxonomie der Dermatophyten ist Trichophyton (T.) quinckeanum – früher lediglich als Subspezies T. mentagrophytes var. quinckeanum bekannt ‐ wieder eine eigenständige Spezies.

Patienten und Methodik

Von 11/2013 bis 1/2017 (3 Jahre und 3 Monate) wurde in der Routinediagnostik des Labors Mölbis nach Stämmen von T. quinckeanum gesucht. Alle Stämme wurden molekularbiologisch mit (1.) Sondenhybridisierung (PCR‐ELISA), (2.) Sequenzierung der ITS‐ und TEF1α ‐Genregionen sowie (3.) teilweise mittels MALDI‐TOF‐MS analysiert.

Ergebnisse

Es fanden sich 62 Stämme von T. quinckeanum. Von den Patienten waren 68 % Mädchen und Frauen, 43 % waren Kinder und Jugendliche (bis zum 19. Lebensjahr). Als Infektionsquelle wurden häufig Katzen angegeben. Die Sequenzierung erbrachte für alle 62 Stämme eine 100%ige Übereinstimmung mit in der Datenbank des NCBI hinterlegten Typstämmen von T. quinckeanum. Die mittels MALDI‐TOF‐MS analysierten Isolate wiesen spezifische Spektren auf.

Schlussfolgerungen

Der zoophile Dermatophyt T. quinckeanum kommt offenbar häufiger vor, als bislang vermutet. T. quinckeanum wurde von Kindern und Erwachsenen mit Dermatomykosen und Tinea capitis isoliert. Infektionsquellen für T. quinckeanum sind kleine Nagetiere (Mäuse), Pferde, jedoch auffällig häufig auch Katzen. Die morphologische Identifizierung des Dermatophyten ist nicht immer eindeutig möglich, so dass auf molekulare Methoden zurückgegriffen werden muss.
Mastozytose – Pathogenese, Klinik und Therapie
Authors: Wagner Nicola , Staubach Petra
Published: January 2018

Mastozytosen sind seltene Erkrankungen. Aufgrund der charakteristischen Hautveränderungen, der teils assoziiert auftretenden Anaphylaxien sowie der Mediatorsymptomatik werden sie oft im dermatologisch‐allergologischen Tätigkeitsbereich primär diagnostiziert. Zugrunde liegt eine klonale Mastzellvermehrung, meist in der Haut oder dem Knochenmark, seltener im Gastrointestinaltrakt oder anderen Organen. In der Regel haben Mastozytosen eine gute Prognose quoad vitam. Seltene Formen, wie die Mastzellleukämie, die aggressive Mastozytose und das extrem rare Mastzellsarkom erfordern eine zytoreduktive Therapie. Bei Mastozytosen mit assoziierter hämatologischer Neoplasie ist die Prognose abhängig von der begleitenden hämatologischen Grunderkrankung.
Associative learning of host presence in non‐host environments influences parasitoid foraging
Authors: DE RIJK MARJOLEIN , CEGARRA SÁNCHEZ VICTOR , SMID HANS M. , ENGEL BAS , VET LOUISE E.M. , POELMAN ERIK H.
Published: January 2018

1. Parasitoids are known to utilise learning of herbivore‐induced plant volatiles (HIPVs) when foraging for their herbivorous host. In natural situations these hosts share food plants with other, non‐suitable herbivores (non‐hosts). Simultaneous infestation of plants by hosts and non‐hosts has been found to result in induction of HIPVs that differ from host‐infested plants. Each non‐host herbivore may have different effects on HIPVs when sharing the food plant with hosts, and thus parasitoids may learn that plants with a specific non‐host herbivore also contain the host.

2. This study investigated the adaptive nature of learning by a foraging parasitoid that had acquired oviposition experience on a plant infested with both hosts and different non‐hosts in the laboratory and in semi‐field experiments.

3. In two‐choice preference tests, the parasitoid Cotesia glomerata shifted its preference towards HIPVs of a plant–host–non‐host complex previously associated with an oviposition experience. It could, indeed, learn that the presence of its host is associated with HIPVs induced by simultaneous feeding of its host Pieris brassicae and either the non‐host caterpillar Mamestra brassicae or the non‐host aphid Myzus persicae. However, the learned preference found in the laboratory did not translate into parasitisation preferences for hosts accompanying non‐host caterpillars or aphids in a semi‐field situation.

4. This paper discusses the importance of learning in parasitoid foraging, and debates why observed learned preferences for HIPVs in the laboratory may cancel out under some field experimental conditions.
The wartime and post‐war reception of Caesarius of Arles
Authors: Klingshirn William E.
Published: January 2018

This article focuses on the reception of Caesarius, bishop of Arles, from the end of his fourteenth centenary in 1942 to the beginning of his fifteenth in 1970, with particular attention to religious and political contexts. It also considers, though more selectively, trends in the study of Caesarius after 1970 that illustrate both continuity with the immediate post‐war period, especially in the local veneration of his memory, and new questions and approaches closely tied to current trends in the study of religious and political change in the early Middle Ages.
Caesarius's Rule for unruly nuns: permitted and prohibited textiles in the monastery of St John
Authors: Tilley Maureen
Published: January 2018

Caesarius wrote a Rule, revised in 534, for his sister's convent in Arles. The regulations it contains exhibit many indications of Caesarius's attempts to move the nuns from their former ways of life to a more ascetic regimen. Some of the rules involve clothing and other textiles used at the convent. Ever the micromanager, he specifies forbidden and permitted textiles, colours, and styles of adornment. This paper explores the nature of these regulations, and relates them to Caesarius's larger programme of asceticism and political influence displayed in the Rule and his other writings.
Permitted and Prohibited Textiles in the Regula Virginum: Unweaving the Terminology
Authors: Miola Maria del Fiat
Published: January 2018

The sixth‐century monastic rule known as Caesarius's Regula Virginum has attracted much scholarly attention as the first rule written specifically for women and establishing strict enclosure. The present article seeks to examine another unique aspect of the Rule: its frequent references to textiles and use of technical, rare terminology. The author combines a close philological analysis with a consideration of the monastic context and of the material culture of weaving. This analysis not only yields a deeper understanding of the spiritual ideals of the sisters within the cloister, but also brings into focus some concrete details of their daily life.
Securitization and credit quality in the European market
Authors: Kara Alper , Marques‐Ibanez David , Ongena Steven
Published: January 2018

We assess the effect of securitization activity on relative credit quality employing a uniquely detailed dataset from the euro‐denominated syndicated loan market. We find that at issuance, based on observable characteristics, banks do not seem to select and securitize loans of lower credit quality. Following securitization, the credit quality of borrowers whose loans are securitized deteriorates more than those in the control group. We find that poorer performance by borrowers of securitized loans seems to be connected to banks’ reduced monitoring incentives. Our results are supported by two additional methodologies and robust to controlling for predetermined borrower–lender matching.
Benefits of increasing transpiration efficiency in wheat under elevated CO2 for rainfed regions
Authors: Christy Brendan , Tausz‐Posch Sabine , Tausz Michael , Richards Richard , Rebetzke Greg , Condon Anthony , McLean Terry , Fitzgerald Glenn , Bourgault Maryse , O'Leary Garry
Published: January 2018

Higher transpiration efficiency (TE) has been proposed as a mechanism to increase crop yields in dry environments where water availability usually limits yield. The application of a coupled radiation and TE simulation model shows wheat yield advantage of a high‐TE cultivar (cv. Drysdale) over its almost identical low‐TE parent line (Hartog), from about −7 to 558 kg/ha (mean 187 kg/ha) over the rainfed cropping region in Australia (221–1,351 mm annual rainfall), under the present‐day climate. The smallest absolute yield response occurred in the more extreme drier and wetter areas of the wheat belt. However, under elevated CO2 conditions, the response of Drysdale was much greater overall, ranging from 51 to 886 kg/ha (mean 284 kg/ha) with the greatest response in the higher rainfall areas. Changes in simulated TE under elevated CO2 conditions are seen across Australia with notable increased areas of higher TE under a drier climate in Western Australia, Queensland and parts of New South Wales and Victoria. This improved efficiency is subtly deceptive, with highest yields not necessarily directly correlated with highest TE. Nevertheless, the advantage of Drysdale over Hartog is clear with the benefit of the trait advantage attributed to TE ranging from 102% to 118% (mean 109%). The potential annual cost‐benefits of this increased genetic TE trait across the wheat growing areas of Australia (5 year average of area planted to wheat) totaled AUD 631 MIL (5‐year average wheat price of AUD/260 t) with an average of 187 kg/ha under the present climate. The benefit to an individual farmer will depend on location but elevated CO2 raises this nation‐wide benefit to AUD 796 MIL in a 2°C warmer climate, slightly lower (AUD 715 MIL) if rainfall is also reduced by 20%.
Consumer knowledge and use of food and nutrition labelling in South Africa: A cross‐sectional descriptive study
Authors: Koen Nelene , Wentzel‐Viljoen Edelweiss , Nel Daan , Blaauw Reneé
Published: January 2018

The noncommunicable disease burden can be addressed through population‐wide interventions, including the promotion of healthy diets through the provision of adequate nutrition information on food labels. The study aimed to determine consumer knowledge and reading of nutrition information on food labels; the self‐reported impact of food and nutrition labelling on purchasing behaviour; and barriers to and expectations of reading nutrition information. In this cross‐sectional descriptive study, an interviewer‐administered electronic survey was conducted on adult consumers (N = 960) at 16 randomly selected grocery stores (from the four main food retailers in South Africa) in four health districts of Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa. Data from the survey were exported from SurveyMonkey® to Microsoft Excel and analysed using STATISTICA Version 13. The relation between nominal variables was investigated with contingency tables and likelihood ratio chi‐squared tests. Regression analysis of a continuous response variable vs. ordinal input was done and the strength of the relationship was measured with Spearman correlation. A p‐value of p < .05 represented statistical significance. Only 36.0% of participants indicated that they frequently/always read nutrition information on food labels. Older individuals (p < .05), white participants (p < .001), those with a higher level of education (p < .001) and income (p < .001) read nutrition information more frequently. The main reasons for not reading nutrition information included buying the same type of product all the time (34.28%) and not being interested in the nutrition information (31.44%). The mean food and nutrition label knowledge score was 44.4% (fair or below average) with those that often read the nutrition information on labels having a significantly higher score (p < .01). Main factors influencing food purchasing behaviour included price (81.25%), sell‐by date (89.16%) and products on special/promotion (87.08%). Participants would prefer less complex terminology (79.69%), more pictures/colours (71.15%), a single health endorsement logo (73.33%) and bigger font sizes (69.17%) to be used on food labels. Cape Town consumers have fair food and nutrition label knowledge and do not regularly read nutrition information on labels. This could explain why nutrition information was not mentioned as an important determinant of food purchasing. More should be done to educate consumers on utilizing the nutrition information on food labels to make healthier food choices and to simplify food labels for consumers.
Teaching & Learning Tips 3: Active learning strategies
Authors: Rana Jasmine , Burgin Susan
Published: January 2018

Challenge: It takes practice and thoughtful planning to inspire trainees to actively process new information instead of passively receive it. In fact, research suggests “active teaching” does not always lead to “active learning,” so what are some general principles to encourage trainees to engage in active learning in any teaching context?