bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structure and ultrastructure study on photophores of the Madeira lanternfish, Ceratoscopelus maderensis (Lowe, 1839), Pisces: Myctophidae
Authors: Cavallaro Mauro , Battaglia Pietro , Guerrera Maria Cristina , Abbate Francesco , Levanti Maria Beatrice , Ammendolia Giovanni , Andaloro Franco , Germanà Antonino , Laurà Rosaria
Published: December 2017

The structure and ultrastructure of photophores in the Madeira lanternfish, Ceratoscopelus maderensis, from the Strait of Messina (Mediterranean Sea) was investigated. The structure of C. maderensis photophore observed by light microscope consists of different functional parts: the photogenic cells, involved in the light production process, and a set of dioptric annexes, such as the accessory scales, lens‐scale, reflector and pigmented layer. The photocytes have an elongated, thin and flattened shape and are located inside a cup‐shaped structure, made up of the reflector and the pigmented layer. The lens‐scale has a protection function as well as a dioptric role and is covered by accessory scales. The innervation of the lens‐scale of C. maderensis and the other structures having a neurotransmitter function are probably implicated in the regulation of intensity and direction of light emission as well in playing a role in the counterillumination camouflage in the mesopelagic environment. The anatomical description of the photophores of C. maderensis provides a scientific basis for future investigations on the functioning of photogenic systems in relation to the ecology of this mesopelagic fish.
High risk of hypogonadism in young male cancer survivors
Authors: Isaksson S. , Bogefors K. , Ståhl O. , Eberhard J. , Giwercman Y.L. , Leijonhufvud I. , Link K. , Øra I. , Romerius P. , Bobjer J. , Giwercman A.
Published: December 2017

Objective

Cancer and its treatment in childhood and young adulthood can cause hypogonadism, leading to increased risk of long‐term morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to evaluate the risk of presenting with biochemical signs of hypogonadism in testicular cancer survivors (TCS) and male childhood cancer survivors (CCS) in relation to the type of treatment given.

Design

Case‐control study.

Patients

Ninety‐two TCS, 125 CCS (mean age 40 and median age 34 years, respectively; mean follow‐up time 9.2 and 24 years, respectively) and a corresponding number of age‐matched controls.

Measurements

Fasting morning blood samples were analysed for total testosterone (TT), follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). The odds ratios (OR) for hypogonadism, defined as primary, secondary, compensated or ongoing androgen replacement, were calculated for TCS and CCS and for subgroups defined by diagnosis and treatment.

Results

Hypogonadism was found in 26% of CCS and 36% of TCS, respectively (OR: 2.1, P = .025 and OR = 2.3, P = .021). Among CCS, the OR was further increased in those given testicular irradiation (OR = 28, P = .004). Radiotherapy other than cranial or testicular irradiation plus chemotherapy, or cranial irradiation without chemotherapy, associated also with increased ORs (OR = 3.7, P = .013, and OR = 4.4, P = .038, respectively). Among TCS, those receiving >4 cycles of cisplatin‐based chemotherapy had OR = 17, P = .015.

Conclusions

Biochemical signs of testosterone deficiency are recognized as markers of decreased life expectancy. Thus, the risk of hypogonadism in TCS and CCS should be recognized and emphasizes the need of long‐term follow‐up for these men.
Why conservation scientists should re‐embrace their ecocentric roots
Authors: Piccolo John J. , Washington Haydn , Kopnina Helen , Taylor Bron
Published: December 2017

Article impact statement: Ecocentrism, the recognition of intrinsic natural value, is and should continue to be a vital element of biodiversity conservation.
Quality of life in elderly patients with an ostomy – a study from the population‐based PROFILES registry
Authors: Verweij N. M. , Bonhof C. S. , Schiphorst A. H. W. , Maas H. A. , Mols F. , Pronk A. , Hamaker M. E.
Published: December 2017

Aim

Ostomies are being placed frequently in surgically treated elderly patients with colorectal cancer (CRC). An insight into the (potential) impact of ostomies on quality of life (QoL) could be useful in patient counselling as well as in the challenging shared treatment decision‐making.

Method

Patients with CRC diagnosed between 2000 and 2009 and registered in the population‐based Eindhoven Cancer Registry received a QoL questionnaire (EORTC QLQ‐C30) in 2010. In addition, QoL was compared with an age‐ and sex‐matched normative population.

Results

The study included 2299 CRC patients, of whom 494 had an ostomy. No differences were found in reported ostomy‐related problems between patients aged ≤65, 66–75 and ≥76 years. Ostomy patients aged 66–75 and ≥76 years reported significantly lower physical functioning compared with those without an ostomy. In the elderly (those aged ≥76 years) ostomates reported a worse physical and social functioning compared with the normative population. All these differences were of small clinical relevance. The impact of an ostomy seems to be more prominent in younger (≤75 years old) ostomates, as they experience more functional limitations and a decrease in global health status compared with younger nonostomy patients and the normative population.

Conclusion

Although elderly (≥76 years old) patients with an ostomy report significantly more limitations in functioning compared with a normative population and elderly CRC patients without an ostomy, the clinical relevance of this finding is limited. In contrast, the impact of an ostomy is more prominent in younger patients. Thus, age itself is not a reason for withholding an ostomy.
Revealing a new mode of sensitization induced by mechanical circulatory support devices: Impact of anti‐AT1R antibodies
Authors: Zhang Xiaohai , Mirocha James , Aintablian Tamar , Dimbil Sadia , Moriguchi Jaime , Arabia Francisco , Kobashigawa Jon A. , Reinsmoen Nancy
Published: December 2017

Background

Increased levels of angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) antibody have been shown to be associated with allograft rejection. This study aims to determine the rate of development of antibody to AT1R after mechanical circulatory support device (MCS) implantation, and if the development of strong binding AT1R antibodies is associated with survival.

Methods

Eighty‐eight patients who had one MCS implantation were accessed based on serum availability. Mechanical circulatory support devices in this cohort included pneumatic bilateral paracorporeal ventricular assist device, continuous flow left ventricular assist device, and total artificial heart.

Results

Of 88 patients, seven patients had AT1R antibodies ≥40 U/mL preimplantation. For 81 patients who had AT1R antibodies <40 U/mL, the median value was 8 U/mL. Of these 81 patients, AT1R antibody levels in 55 (68%) patients reached the saturated concentration (≥40 U/mL) postimplantation (P < .0001), with the highest percentage of patients with the saturated level of AT1R antibody observed in the pneumatic bilateral paracorporeal ventricular assist device group. Compared to patients without the saturated level of AT1R antibodies, patients with the saturated AT1R antibody level had lower 18‐month survival (P = .040).

Conclusion

Mechanical circulatory support devices implantation significantly increases AT1R antibody levels. The saturated level of AT1R antibodies is associated with lower patient survival postimplantation.
Japan Gastroenterological Endoscopy Society guidelines for endoscopic sphincterotomy
Authors: Ryozawa Shomei , Itoi Takao , Katanuma Akio , Okabe Yoshinobu , Kato Hironari , Horaguchi Jun , Fujita Naotaka , Yasuda Kenjiro , Tsuyuguchi Toshio , Fujimoto Kazuma
Published: December 2017

The Japan Gastroenterological Endoscopy Society (JGES) has recently compiled guidelines for endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST) using evidence‐based methods. Content regarding actual clinical practice, including detailed endoscopic procedures, instruments, device types and usage, has already been published by the JGES postgraduate education committee in May 2015 and, thus, in these guidelines we avoided duplicating such content as much as possible. The guidelines do not address pancreatic sphincterotomy, endoscopic papillary balloon dilation (EPBD), and endoscopic papillary large balloon dilation (EPLBD). The guidelines for EPLBD are planned to be developed separately. The evidence level in this field is often low and, in many instances, strong recommendation has to be determined on the basis of expert consensus. At this point in time, the guidelines are divided into six items including indications, techniques, specific cases, adverse events, outcomes, and postoperative follow up.
Pulmonary arterial hypertension associated with connective tissue diseases: A review focusing on distinctive clinical aspects
Authors: Kato Masaru , Atsumi Tatsuya
Published: December 2017

Recent studies have clarified that pulmonary arterial hypertension associated with connective tissue diseases (CTD‐PAH) has some distinctive clinical aspects from other PAH, such as high prevalence, venous and cardiac involvement, less favourable outcome, helpfulness of detection algorithm, response to immunosuppression, pre‐PAH conditions in borderline pulmonary arterial pressure and coexistence of interstitial lung disease. In this review, by focusing on these distinctive aspects, we discuss how to provide an efficacious and safe management of CTD‐PAH and garner attention to areas where further evidence is desired.
Mitochondria and redox balance in coeliac disease: A case‐control study
Authors: Picca Anna , Riezzo Giuseppe , Lezza Angela M. S. , Clemente Caterina , Pesce Vito , Orlando Antonella , Chimienti Guglielmina , Russo Francesco
Published: December 2017

Background

Coeliac disease (CD) is a gluten‐sensitive autoimmune disorder. Gluten toxicity encompasses a wide spectrum of target organ functions and pathologies, including the activation of the immune response and triggering of oxidative stress. The aim of this study was to investigate inflammation and the redox balance in patients with active CD, and to evaluate whether alteration of mitochondrial function is involved in the disease status.

Design

In this prospective case‐control study, blood samples from sixteen adult CD patients and sixteen healthy controls (HC) were investigated for IL‐1β, IL‐6 and IL‐8 plasma concentrations, for serum PON1 arylesterase, total and MnSOD antioxidant enzyme activities, induced TBARs levels, and for lymphocyte mtDNA content.

Results

Patients showed IL‐8 and IL‐1β concentrations significantly higher than HC counterparts. Patients had a significantly higher content of induced TBARS compared to HC value, indicating a shift in their serum redox balance towards pro‐oxidant species. The assay of antioxidant enzyme activities showed a significant 25% increase in PON1, a higher total SOD, and a significant 21% higher MnSOD in patients compared to HC. Lymphocyte mtDNA content in patients was significantly twofold higher than in HC, supporting the induction of mitochondrial biogenesis. The patients’ mitochondrial compensatory response may explain the correlation between MnSOD activity and mtDNA content. The patients’ mitochondrial oxidative stress, cooperating to cytokines secretion, may justify the correlation between IL‐1β concentration and mtDNA content.

Conclusions

These results highlight the mitochondrial involvement in CD and suggest the evaluation of the mtDNA content as a potential diagnostic and follow‐up parameter.
Site fidelity, diel and seasonal activities of yellow‐phase Japanese eels (Anguilla japonica) in a freshwater habitat as inferred from acoustic telemetry
Authors: Itakura Hikaru , Miyake Yoichi , Kitagawa Takashi , Kimura Shingo
Published: December 2017

Japanese eels (Anguilla japonica) perform large‐scale oceanic migrations between their spawning ground and growth habitats in continental waters during life history. However, between these migrations, they spend most of time in growth habitats such as rivers. To investigate the diel and seasonal activities, homing behaviour and home range of yellow‐phase Japanese eels in the lower reach of the Tone River, we tracked them throughout a year using a fine‐scale positioning system (VPS) based on acoustic telemetry. The tracked eels were generally nocturnal, but not exclusively. They were mainly mobile from spring to autumn, with little or no activity observed during winter. A transport‐release experiment showed that most eels returned to their original capture area within 13 days after release. The eels had very small home ranges (mean ± SD = 0.085 ± 0.068 km2), core areas (0.014 ± 0.014 km2) and linear home ranges (744 ± 268 m). They also tended to be distributed on one particular side of the river (right or left bank) and in one particular shore type (revetment or vegetation), rarely moving from one to the other. This study provides evidence for nocturnal, dormancy, homing behaviours, limited habitat use and small home range size in Japanese eels. The eels clearly showed strong fidelity to a “familiar” site, which contrasts with the long distances travelled during upstream and downstream migration phases in the river, and during spawning migrations in the ocean.
Molecular characteristics and functional analysis of the β‐1,4‐endoglucanaseBm‐eng‐1gene ofBursaphelenchus mucronatus(Nematoda: Aphelenchoididae)
Authors: Wang J. C. , Zeng Q. W. , Zhou L. F. , Chen F. M.
Published: December 2017

The pine nematodeBursaphelenchus mucronatushas been associated with pine wilt in China. This work was intended to investigate the role of the pathogenicity‐related β‐1,4‐endoglucanase gene ofB. mucronatusin the infection of pines. In this study, the full‐length cDNA of theBm‐eng‐1gene was cloned and characterized from aB. mucronatusisolate. Phylogenetic analysis suggested that theBm‐eng‐1gene ofB. mucronatusmay be acquired from fungi through horizontal gene transfer. The function of the gene was demonstrated using RNA interference. RNA interference indicated thatBm‐eng‐1was involved in the dispersal, reproductive ability and pathogenicity ofB. mucronatus. In situ hybridization showed thatBm‐eng‐1was specifically expressed in the oesophageal gland ofB. mucronatus. Furthermore, to investigate the relation between β‐1,4‐endoglucanase activities and virulence of different isolates, the β‐1,4‐endoglucanase activities and the expression levels ofBm‐eng‐1were detected in sixB. mucronatusisolates with different virulence. β‐1,4‐Endoglucanase activity was generally higher in pathogenic isolates than in non‐pathogenic isolates, and theBm‐eng‐1expression levels in different isolates were positively correlated with the β‐1,4‐endoglucanase activity. These findings suggested that β‐1,4‐endoglucanase plays important roles in the pathogenic process ofB. mucronatus, and the differential expression of the gene may underlie the different activity levels of β‐1,4‐endoglucanase, subsequently influencing variations in virulence ofB. mucronatusisolates.
The Public Works Loan Board and the growth of the state in nineteenth‐century England
Authors: Webster Ian
Published: December 2017

The nineteenth‐century archive of the Public Works Loan Board (PWLB) has been overlooked by economic historians. Yet the archive reveals how the PWLB came to play a major part in the financing of new schools, water supplies and sewers in the 1870s. Ten thousand loan applications have been analysed to highlight the changing patterns of the PWLB's lending, while the 60 volumes of minutes indicate why the pattern changed. The analysis shows that in the 1870s there was a large rise in local infrastructure investment caused by the switch from permissive to compulsory public health and education legislation. At the same time, the PWLB became predominantly a low‐cost, rather than a market rate, lender. This change shows how MPs’ views developed as they became more sensitive to the impact of the local costs of parliamentary legislation. Overall, the activities of the PWLB illustrate the legislative and institutional changes that contributed significantly to the growth in the role and spending of the state.
Differences in regional grey matter volumes in currently ill patients with anorexia nervosa
Authors: Phillipou Andrea , Rossell Susan Lee , Gurvich Caroline , Castle David Jonathan , Abel Larry Allen , Nibbs Richard Grant , Hughes Matthew Edward
Published: December 2017

Neurobiological findings in anorexia nervosa (AN) are inconsistent, including differences in regional grey matter volumes. Methodological limitations often contribute to the inconsistencies reported. The aim of this study was to improve on these methodologies by utilising voxel‐based morphometry (VBM) analysis with the use of diffeomorphic anatomic registration through an exponentiated lie algebra algorithm (DARTEL), in a relatively large group of individuals with AN. Twenty‐six individuals with AN and 27 healthy controls underwent a T1‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan. AN participants were found to have reduced grey matter volumes in a number of areas including regions of the basal ganglia (including the ventral striatum), and parietal and temporal cortices. Body mass index (BMI) and global scores on the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE‐Q) were also found to correlate with grey matter volumes in a region of the brainstem (including the substantia nigra and ventral tegmental area) in AN, and predicted 56% of the variance in grey matter volumes in this area. The brain regions associated with grey matter reductions in AN are consistent with regions responsible for cognitive deficits associated with the illness including anhedonia, deficits in affect perception and saccadic eye movement abnormalities. Overall, the findings suggest reduced grey matter volumes in AN that are associated with eating disorder symptomatology.
Release from informational masking by auditory stream segregation: perception and its neural correlate
Authors: Dolležal Lena‐Vanessa , Tolnai Sandra , Beutelmann Rainer , Klump Georg M.
Published: December 2017

In the analysis of acoustic scenes, we easily miss sounds or are insensitive to sound features that are salient if presented in isolation. This insensitivity that is not due to interference in the inner ear is termed informational masking (IM). So far, the cellular mechanisms underlying IM remained elusive. Here, we apply a sequential IM paradigm to humans and gerbils using a sound level increment detection task determining the sensitivity to target tones in a background of standard (same frequency) and distracting tones (varying in level and frequency). The amount of IM that was indicated by the level increment thresholds depended on the frequency separation between the distracting and the standard and target tones. In humans and gerbils, we observed similar perceptual thresholds. A release from IM of more than 20 dB was observed in both species if the distracting tones were well segregated in frequency from the other tones. Neuronal rate responses elicited by similar sequences in gerbil inferior colliculus and auditory cortex were recorded. At both levels of the auditory pathway, the neuronal thresholds obtained with a signal‐detection‐theoretic approach deducing the sensitivity from the analysis of the neurons’ receiver operating characteristics matched the psychophysical thresholds revealing that IM already emerges at midbrain level. By applying objective response measures in physiology and psychophysics, we demonstrated that the population of neurons has a sufficient sensitivity for explaining the perceptual level increment thresholds indicating IM. There was a good correspondence between the neuronal and perceptual release from IM being related to auditory stream segregation.
The locus coeruleus–norepinephrine system as pacemaker of attention – a developmental mechanism of derailed attentional function in autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Bast Nico , Poustka Luise , Freitag Christine M.
Published: December 2017

Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) exhibit diminished visual engagement to environmental stimuli. Aberrant attentional function provides an explanation by reduced phasic alerting and orienting to exogenous stimuli. We review aberrant attentional function (alerting, orienting and attentional control) in children with ASD as studied by neurocognitive and neurophysiological tasks as well as magnetic resonance imaging studies. The locus coeruleus–norepinephrine (LC–NE) system is outlined as a pacemaker of attentional function. The LC–NE system regulates adaptive gain in synaptic signal transmission, which moderates phasic alerting (‘promoting’) and the activation of the ventral frontoparietal attention network within orienting (‘permitting’). In children with ASD, atypical LC–NE activity is proposed as underlying mechanism of aberrant attentional function. It may manifest as (i) increased tonic activity with reduced phasic reactivity to exogenous stimuli, (ii) attenuated bottom‐up signalling mitigating salience and predictive reward attribution during phasic alerting, and (iii) reduced activation of the ventral frontoparietal attention system attenuating orienting to exogenous stimuli. Increased tonic pupil dilation and aberrant pupil reactivity are discussed as indicators of atypical LC–NE activity. Pupillometry is outlined as feasible method to assess alerting, orienting and attentional control that can be dissected from the pupil dilation time course. In children with ASD, aberrant attentional function through atypical LC–NE activity is proposed as developmental mechanism leading to reduced social attention as well as social interaction and communication impairments.
Cross‐modal refinement of visual performance after brief somatosensory deprivation in adult mice
Authors: Teichert Manuel , Isstas Marcel , Wenig Steven , Setz Christoph , Lehmann Konrad , Bolz Jürgen
Published: December 2017

It is well established that the congenital lack of one sensory modality enhances functionality in the spared senses. However, whether a late onset deprivation of one sense leads to such alterations is largely unknown. Here, we investigated whether a somatosensory deprivation induced by bilateral whisker removal affects visual acuity and contrast sensitivity in fully adult mice. Using the visual cortex‐dependent visual water task, we found that a brief somatosensory deprivation markedly improved behavioral visual acuity and contrast sensitivity by about 40%. Determining these attributes of vision using periodic optical imaging of intrinsic signals in the same mice revealed that visual cortex responses elicited by weak visual stimuli were massively increased after somatosensory deprivation. Strikingly, comparison of visual acuity and contrast sensitivity values determined by the visual water task and intrinsic signal imaging revealed that these measurements were almost identical, even at the level of individual animals. In summary, our results suggest that a brief manipulation of somatosensory experience profoundly boosts visual cortex‐dependent vision in adults.
The roles of TRPV1, TRPA1 and TRPM8 channels in chemical and thermal sensitivity of the mouse oral mucosa
Authors: Kichko Tatjana I. , Neuhuber Winfried , Kobal Gerd , Reeh Peter W.
Published: December 2017

Spices in food and beverages and compounds in tobacco smoke interact with sensory irritant receptors of the transient receptor potential (TRP) cation channel family. TRPV1 (vanilloid type 1), TRPA1 (ankyrin 1) and TRPM8 (melastatin 8) not only elicit action potential signaling through trigeminal nerves, eventually evoking pungent or cooling sensations, but by their calcium conductance they also stimulate the release of calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP). This is measured as an index of neuronal activation to elucidate the chemo‐ and thermosensory transduction in the isolated mouse buccal mucosa of wild types and pertinent knockouts. We found that the lipophilic capsaicin, mustard oil and menthol effectively get access to the nerve endings below the multilayered squamous epithelium, while cigarette smoke and its gaseous phase were weakly effective releasing CGRP. The hydrophilic nicotine was ineffective unless applied unprotonated in alkaline (pH9) solution, activating TRPA1 and TRPV1. Also, mustard oil activated both these irritant receptors in millimolar but only TRPA1 in micromolar concentrations; in combination (1 mm) with heat (45 °C), it showed supraadditive, that is heat sensitizing, effects in TRPV1 and TRPA1 knockouts, suggesting action on an unknown heat‐activated channel and mustard oil receptor. Menthol caused little CGRP release by itself, but in subliminal concentration (2 mm), it enabled a robust cold response that was absent in TRPM8−/− but retained in TRPA1−/− and strongly reduced by TRPM8 inhibitors. In conclusion, all three relevant irritant receptors are functionally expressed in the oral mucosa and play their specific roles in inducing neurogenic inflammation and sensitization to heat and cold.
Fishway with two entrance branches: Understanding its performance for potamodromous Mediterranean barbels
Authors: Bravo‐Córdoba F. J. , Sanz‐Ronda F. J. , Ruiz‐Legazpi J. , Fernandes Celestino L. , Makrakis S.
Published: December 2017

Many fish passes have been built across the world in recent years. This study analyses the performance of a modified type of pool and weir fishway with two access branches, using passive integrated transponder telemetry. A circum‐Mediterranean barbel, Luciobarbus bocagei (Steindachner, 1864), was chosen as the target species. Both hydraulic values (flow and volumetric energy dissipation) and biological parameters (attraction, entrance and passage success) were measured in the fishway, these being related to the environmental variables affecting upstream fish movement. Flow discharge, water temperature and atmospheric pressure were important for fish entering the fishway. There was no preference between path routes, even though the main discharge was concentrated in the turbine channel. This type of fishway design could be an alternative for the conservation of fish populations where multiple fish approach options are possible.
Role of RNA modifications in brain and behavior
Authors: Jung Y. , Goldman D.
Published: December 2017

Much progress in our understanding of RNA metabolism has been made since the first RNA nucleoside modification was identified in 1957. Many of these modifications are found in noncoding RNAs but recent interest has focused on coding RNAs. Here, we summarize current knowledge of cellular consequences of RNA modifications, with a special emphasis on neuropsychiatric disorders. We present evidence for the existence of an “RNA code,” similar to the histone code, that fine‐tunes gene expression in the nervous system by using combinations of different RNA modifications. Unlike the relatively stable genetic code, this combinatorial RNA epigenetic code, or epitranscriptome, may be dynamically reprogrammed as a cause or consequence of psychiatric disorders. We discuss potential mechanisms linking disregulation of the epitranscriptome with brain disorders and identify potential new avenues of research.
Larger temperature response of autumn leaf senescence than spring leaf‐out phenology
Authors: Fu Yongshuo H. , Piao Shilong , Delpierre Nicolas , Hao Fanghua , Hänninen Heikki , Liu Yongjie , Sun Wenchao , Janssens Ivan A. , Campioli Matteo
Published: December 2017

Climate warming is substantially shifting the leaf phenological events of plants, and thereby impacting on their individual fitness and also on the structure and functioning of ecosystems. Previous studies have largely focused on the climate impact on spring phenology, and to date the processes underlying leaf senescence and their associated environmental drivers remain poorly understood. In this study, experiments with temperature gradients imposed during the summer and autumn were conducted on saplings of European beech to explore the temperature responses of leaf senescence. An additional warming experiment during winter enabled us to assess the differences in temperature responses of spring leaf‐out and autumn leaf senescence. We found that warming significantly delayed the dates of leaf senescence both during summer and autumn warming, with similar temperature sensitivities (6–8 days delay per °C warming), suggesting that, in the absence of water and nutrient limitation, temperature may be a dominant factor controlling the leaf senescence in European beech. Interestingly, we found a significantly larger temperature response of autumn leaf senescence than of spring leaf‐out. This suggests a possible larger contribution of delays in autumn senescence, than of the advancement in spring leaf‐out, to extending the growing season under future warmer conditions.
Podocyte and endothelial cell injury lead to nephrotic syndrome in proliferative lupus nephritis
Authors: Nawata Aya , Hisano Satoshi , Shimajiri Shohei , Wang Ke‐Yong , Tanaka Yoshiya , Nakayama Toshiyuki
Published: December 2017

Aims

Nephrotic syndrome (NS) is a major manifestation of lupus nephritis (LN). The dysregulation of podocytes, the glomerular basement membrane (GBM) and endothelial cells (ECs) results in proteinuria in glomerular diseases. The aim of our study was to clarify whether the dysregulation of these barriers is associated withNSin proliferativeLNand membranousLN.

Methods and results

Fifty‐six patients withNS, including minimal changeNSin 15, primary membranous nephropathy (PMN) in 13, classIII/IV LNin 15, and class VLNin 13, were enrolled in this study. Subjects with idiopathic haematuria were assigned as controls. Glomerular expression of Wilms tumour protein 1 (WT1), nephrin, synaptopodin and podocalyxin was evaluated by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and real‐time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction.ECinjury was evaluated byCD31 immunostaining and electron microscopy (EM). Reduced expression ofWT1, nephrin and synaptopodin was found inPMN, classIII/IV LNand class VLNas compared with controls byIHCandmRNAanalysis. Reduced expression of these molecules was not different between classIII/IV LNand class VLN. Reduced numbers ofCD31‐positiveECs were found in classIII/IV LNas compared with class VLN.ECinjury showing subendothelial widening onEMwas apparent in classIII/IV LNas compared with class VLN. Foot process effacement was found only along theGBMshowingECinjury in classIII/IV LN.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that coexistence of podocyte andECinjury may lead toNSin proliferativeLN. Podocyte damage alone leads toNSin membranousLN.
Role of conventional immunomarkers, HNF4‐α and SATB2, in the differential diagnosis of pulmonary and colorectal adenocarcinomas
Authors: Kriegsmann Mark , Harms Alexander , Longuespée Rémi , Muley Thomas , Winter Hauke , Kriegsmann Katharina , Kazdal Daniel , Goeppert Benjamin , Pathil Anita , Warth Arne
Published: December 2017

Aims

Pulmonary (ADC) and colorectal (CRC) adenocarcinomas are frequent entities in pathological routine diagnostics. Whereas the differential diagnosis is usually straightforward based on histomorphology, it can be challenging in small biopsies. In general, CDX‐2, CK20, Napsin‐A and TTF‐1 are recommended immunohistological markers in this scenario. Hepatocyte nuclear factor 4 alpha (HNF4‐α) and special AT‐rich sequence‐binding protein 2 (SATB2) were described recently as promising additional markers, but comprehensive large‐scale data are lacking so far. Therefore, we analysed the expression of these six markers in 1021 non‐small‐cell lung cancers (NSCLC), including 472 ADC as well as in 80 pulmonary metastases of CRC.

Methods and results

Tissue microarrays of NSCLC and pulmonary metastases of CRC were stained for CDX‐2, CK20, HNF4‐α, Napsin‐A, SATB2 and TTF‐1 and staining results were correlated with clinicopathological variables. ADC exhibited expression of CDX‐2, CK20, HNF4‐α, Napsin‐A, SATB2 and TTF‐1 in nine (2%), 21 (4%), 17 (4%), 345 (73%), 35 (7%) and 408 (86%) samples, while 80 CRC were positive in 79 (99%), 74 (93%), 77 (96%), no (0%), 78 (98%) and five (6%) cases, respectively.

Conclusions

In addition to conventional immunomarkers, HNF4‐α and particularly SATB2 may be helpful in the differential diagnosis of pulmonary ADC and metastases of CRC.
Dermatologic manifestations among human immunodeficiency virus patients in Morocco and association with immune status
Authors: Titou Hicham , Ebongo Christelle , Hjira Naoufal
Published: December 2017

Objective

The objective was to determine if the type and number of skin diseases can be clinical indicators of underlying immune status in HIV1 disease by estimating and correlating with the CD4 count and CDC stage.

Materials and methods

This was a retrospective cross‐sectional descriptive study. All consecutive patients infected with HIV1 followed at the Dermatology Department of Rabat Military Hospital between January 2008 and January 2017 were studied for dermatological manifestations, CD4 count and CDC clinical stage.

Results

A total of 170 patients with 304 dermatological manifestations were included. The most common dermatoses were fold dermatophytic infections (67%), genital warts (43%), herpes zoster (21%), xerosis (21%), and oral candidiasis (12%). The number of dermatologic manifestations was significantly greater in patients with CD4 count less than 200/mm3 or in stage C of the CDC classification. Five types of skin diseases (dermatophyte infections of the folds, genital warts, shingles, oral candidiasis, and seborrheic dermatitis) were significantly associated (P < 0.05) with CD4 count <200/mm3. Seborrheic dermatitis was the only one skin disease significantly associated with AIDS stage. In multivariate analysis, genital warts (OR = 0.3, 95% CI 0.10–0.92) are independently associated with CD4 count less than 200 CD4/mm3.

Conclusions

Skin manifestations not only act as markers but also reflect the underlying immune status. Seborrheic dermatitis and genital warts appear to be a marker of immune status, and seborrheic dermatitis appears to be associated with CDC stage C, especially in their chronic and severe forms.
Prediction models for progression of non‐muscle‐invasive bladder cancer: A review
Authors: Fujii Yasuhisa
Published: December 2017

An accurate prediction of progression is critically important in the management of non‐muscle‐invasive bladder cancer. At present, three risk models are widely known for prediction of the risk of tumor recurrence and progression of non‐muscle‐invasive bladder cancer: the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer, Club Urológico Español de Tratamiento Oncológico, and new European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer models. Bladder neck involvement has been shown to be one of the significant predictors for progression in non‐muscle‐invasive bladder cancer, and a new scoring model (Tokyo Medical and Dental University model) consisting of bladder neck involvement, tumor grade, and stage has been developed and externally validated. However, the predictive abilities of these models are still unsatisfactory, and more precise models are necessary for accurate individual prediction of prognosis. Until now, time‐fixed analysis has been used for most studies predicting the prognosis and outcome of non‐muscle‐invasive bladder cancer patients. In order to predict progression more precisely, time‐dependent models should be developed using multiple‐event analytical techniques, as non‐muscle‐invasive bladder cancer often progresses to muscle‐invasive bladder cancer after multiple recurrences and changes in tumor characteristics over a long natural history. Integration of molecular markers is also a promising approach. A validated model that accurately predicts the risk of progression would help urologists and patients decide whether and when to choose radical cystectomy on an individual basis.
Mindfulness in nursing students: The five facet mindfulness questionnaire in samples of nursing students in China, the Philippines, and South Africa
Authors: Arthur David , Dizon Doroteo , Jooste Karien , Li Zheng , Salvador Mathew , Yao Xiuyu
Published: December 2017

Mindfulness as a clinical strategy for helping manage physical and psychological symptoms is gathering an impressive evidence base. It is also being embraced widely for personal and professional development. As a therapeutic intervention for nurses working across a spectrum of settings, it helps expand practice, and integrating mindfulness in nursing undergraduate and graduate curricula is imminent. In the present study, we outline the development and measurement of mindfulness as a personality trait and therapeutic intervention, and advocate the use of a questionnaire alternative to expensive and impractical laboratory measures. The aims of the present study were to examine and compare the use and reliability of the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ) in samples of nursing students from South Africa, China, and the Philippines, and compare the findings in the nursing student samples to other student and non‐student samples. Three samples of students of nursing from China (n = 193), the Philippines (n = 243), and South Africa (n = 131) completed the 31‐item FFMQ. The internal consistency was acceptable, and the correlations were significant among all facets and the total score. Although the total mean scores between the three samples were not significantly different, there were significant and interesting differences in the facet scores, and these are discussed in the light of likely cultural influences, and comparative data from other samples of students and clinical populations. The instrument shows promise for future use in educational research as a tool for curriculum change, for personal and professional development of nurses, and as a clinical tool for determining mindfulness changes over time.
Mental healthcare staff well‐being and burnout: A narrative review of trends, causes, implications, and recommendations for future interventions
Authors: Johnson Judith , Hall Louise H. , Berzins Kathryn , Baker John , Melling Kathryn , Thompson Carl
Published: December 2017

Rising levels of burnout and poor well‐being in healthcare staff are an international concern for health systems. The need to improve well‐being and reduce burnout has long been acknowledged, but few interventions target mental healthcare staff, and minimal improvements have been seen in services. This review aimed to examine the problem of burnout and well‐being in mental healthcare staff and to present recommendations for future research and interventions. A discursive review was undertaken examining trends, causes, implications, and interventions in burnout and well‐being in healthcare staff working in mental health services. Data were drawn from national surveys, reports, and peer‐reviewed journal articles. These show that staff in mental healthcare report poorer well‐being than staff in other healthcare sectors. Poorer well‐being and higher burnout are associated with poorer quality and safety of patient care, higher absenteeism, and higher turnover rates. Interventions are effective, but effect sizes are small. The review concludes that grounding interventions in the research literature, emphasizing the positive aspects of interventions to staff, building stronger links between healthcare organizations and universities, and designing interventions targeting burnout and improved patient care together may improve the effectiveness and uptake of interventions by staff.
Mental Health Nurses as therapists in a rehabilitation setting: A phenomenological study
Authors: Browne Graeme , Hurley John
Published: December 2017

Mental Health Nurses have a long tradition of delivering talk‐based interventions across a range of clinical settings. Despite this, Mental Health Nurses receive limited recognition of this contribution. This paper presents findings from a study that explored Mental Health Nurses' experience of delivering talk‐based therapies in an inpatient rehabilitation setting. This study uses semistructured interviews and a phenomenological approach to explore eight Mental Health Nurses' experience. Themes emerging included that: mental health nursing is a talk‐based therapy in its own right, talk‐based therapy was part of everyday nursing care on the floor and integrated talk‐based therapy enhanced recovery opportunities for consumers. However, a further theme was that there were tensions around providing talk‐based therapy conflicted with other roles including unit management and the role of nurses in controlling challenging behaviours. This study found that Mental Health Nurses, in this setting, are offering talk‐based therapy to the people they care for. The findings of this study have implications for research: there needs to be a larger study investigating nurses' use of talk‐based therapy in inpatient settings. If, as the authors expect that, it is found that mental health nurses are offering these therapies generally in inpatient settings, this has serious implications for postgraduate education in Mental Health Nursing policy in terms of recognition that this is happening and finding ways to support nurses to do this well. There also needs to be further research in the best ways to offer talk‐based therapy in these settings.
Group‐buying coupons considering consumers’ perceived ease of use
Authors: Wan Qin , Yang Shilei , Liao Yi , Xia Yu
Published: December 2017

This paper examines the design of the online discount coupon, which is a popular marketing tool that offers consumers group‐buying (GB) discounts when they prepay for participating firms’ goods and services. We develop a two‐stage model for a market in which consumers are heterogeneous in their valuation of a product. In our setup, consumers make purchase decisions at the first stage and update their perceptions of the product. As a result, they adjust their repurchase decisions at the second stage. Through the analysis of price discrimination effect and advertising effect, we demonstrate that consumers make their purchase decisions based on not only the discount rate but also the degree of perceived ease of use of the coupons. We then examine both single‐time and double‐time GB mechanisms, and recommend the optimal design for the firm to increase its profitability. Our model also accommodates uncertainty of the degree of consumers' perceived ease of use and shows that the conditions for the optimal GB mechanism are robust.
The indirect response of an aquatic ecosystem to long‐term climate‐driven terrestrial vegetation in a subalpine temperate lake
Authors: Beck Kristen K. , Fletcher Michael‐Shawn , Kattel Giri , Barry Linda A. , Gadd Patricia S. , Heijnis Henk , Jacobsen Geraldine E. , Saunders Krystyna M.
Published: December 2017

Aim

To assess whether climate directly influences aquatic ecosystem dynamics in the temperate landscape of Tasmania or whether the effects of long‐term climatic change are mediated through the terrestrial environment (indirect climate influence).

Location

Paddy's Lake is located at 1065 m a.s.l. in temperate north‐west Tasmania, a continental island south‐east of mainland Australia (41°15–43°25′ S; 145°00–148°15′ E).

Methods

We developed a new 13,400 year (13.4 kyr) palaeoecological dataset of lake sediment subfossil cladocerans (aquatic grazers), bulk organic sediment carbon (C%) and nitrogen (N%) and δ13C and δ15N stable isotopes. Comparison of this new data was made with a recently published pollen, geochemistry and charcoal records from Paddy's Lake.

Results

Low cladoceran diversity at Paddy's Lake is consistent with other temperate Southern Hemisphere lakes. The bulk sediment δ15N values demonstrate a significant lagged negative response to pollen accumulation rate (pollen AR). Compositional shifts of dominant cladoceran taxa (Bosmina meridionalis and Alona guttata) occur following changes in both pollen AR and pollen (vegetation) composition throughout the 13.4 kyr record at Paddy's Lake. The δ15N values demonstrate a significant positive lagged relationship to the oligotrophic:eutrophic cladoceran ratio.

Main conclusions

Long‐term changes in cladoceran composition lag changes in both pollen AR and terrestrial vegetation composition. We interpret pollen AR as reflecting climate‐driven changes in terrestrial vegetation productivity and conclude that climate‐driven shifts in vegetation are the principal driver of the cladoceran community during the last ca. 13.4 kyr. The significant negative lagged relationship between pollen AR and δ15N reflects the primary control of vegetation productivity over within‐lake nutrient status. Thus, we conclude that the effects of long‐term climate change on aquatic ecosystem dynamics at our site are indirect and mediated by the terrestrial environment. Vegetation productivity controls organic soil development and has a direct influence over lake trophic status via changes in the delivery of terrestrial organic matter into the lake.
Global biogeochemical provinces of the mesopelagic zone
Authors: Reygondeau Gabriel , Guidi Lionel , Beaugrand Gregory , Henson Stephanie A. , Koubbi Philippe , MacKenzie Brian R. , Sutton Tracey T. , Fioroni Martine , Maury Olivier
Published: December 2017

Aim

Following the biogeographical approach implemented by Longhurst for the epipelagic layer, we propose here to identify a biogeochemical 3‐D partition for the mesopelagic layer. The resulting partition characterizes the main deep environmental biotopes and their vertical boundaries on a global scale, which can be used as a geographical and ecological framework for conservation biology, ecosystem‐based management and for the design of oceanographic investigations.

Location

The global ocean.

Methods

Based on the most comprehensive environmental climatology available to date, which is both spatially and vertically resolved (seven environmental parameters), we applied a combination of clustering algorithms (c‐means, k‐means, partition around medoids and agglomerative with Ward's linkage) associated with a nonparametric environmental model to identify the vertical and spatial delineation of the mesopelagic layer.

Results

First, we show via numerical interpretation that the vertical division of the pelagic zone varies and, hence, is not constant throughout the global ocean. Indeed, a latitudinal gradient is found between the epipelagic–mesopelagic and mesopelagic–bathypelagic vertical limits. Second, the mesopelagic layer is shown here to be composed of 13 distinguishable Biogeochemical Provinces. Each province shows a distinct range of environmental conditions and characteristic 3‐D distributions.

Main conclusions

The historical definition of the mesopelagic zone is here revisited to define a 3‐D geographical framework and characterize all the deep environmental biotopes of the deep global ocean. According to the numerical interpretation of mesopelagic boundaries, we reveal that the vertical division of the zone is not constant over the global ocean (200–1,000 m) but varies between ocean basin and with latitude. We also provide evidence of biogeochemical division of the mesopelagic zone that is spatially structured in a similar way than the epipelagic in the shallow waters but varies in the deep owing to a change of the environmental driving factors.