bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Public perception of river fish biodiversity in four European countries
Authors: Kochalski Sophia , Riepe Carsten , Fujitani Marie , Aas Øystein , Arlinghaus Robert
Published: June 2018

Public support for biodiversity conservation is shaped by people's values and their knowledge, beliefs, and attitudes toward the environment. We conducted the first multinational representative survey of the general public's perceptions of river fish biodiversity in France, Germany, Norway, and Sweden. For the online survey, 1000 respondents per country were randomly selected from large panels following country‐specific quotas set on age, gender, and educational level. Questions covered people's level of knowledge, beliefs, values, and attitudes toward river fish, environmental threats, and conservation measures. We found that the public had limited knowledge of freshwater fishes. Two non‐native species, rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis), were widely perceived as native, whereas native Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) was mostly classified as native in Scandinavia and largely as non‐native in central Europe. These results suggest an extinction of experience paralleling the extirpation or decline of salmon stocks in countries such as Germany and France. Respondents thought pollution was the dominant threat to riverine fish biodiversity. In reality, habitat loss, dams, and the spread of non‐native fishes are equally important. Despite limited biological knowledge, respondents from all countries held an overwhelmingly proecological worldview, supported conservation stocking, and appreciated native fishes, although only a minority interacted with them directly. Differences among the 4 countries related to several conservation issues. For example, threats to biodiversity stemming from aquaculture were perceived as more prevalent in Norway compared with the other 3 countries. Promoting fish conservation based on charismatic species and use values of fishes may work well in countries with a strong economic and cultural link to the freshwater environment, such as Norway. In countries where people rather abstractly care for nature, focusing conservation messaging on broader ecosystem traits and non‐use values of fishes is likely to win more support.
Consideration of appropriate clinical applications for cardiac xenotransplantation
Authors: Chan Joshua L. , Miller Justin G. , Singh Avneesh K. , Horvath Keith A. , Corcoran Philip C. , Mohiuddin Muhammad M.
Published: June 2018

The field of cardiac xenotransplantation has entered an exciting era due to recent advances in the field. Although several hurdles remain, the use of rapidly evolving transgenic technology has the potential to address current allogeneic donor pool constraints and mechanical circulatory system device limitations. The success of xenotransplantation will undoubtedly be dependent on specific patient selection criteria. Defining these particular indications for xenotransplantation is important as we approach the possibility of clinical applications.
Raspberry bodies and hyaline globules with positive napsin A immunoexpression are useful features in diagnosing clear cell carcinoma of the female genital tract in cytology samples
Authors: Rekhi Bharat , Deodhar Kedar , Gulia Seema , Bajpai Jyoti
Published: June 2018

Hyaline globules and “raspberry bodies” constitute key cytomorphologic features for diagnosing rare cases of clear cell carcinoma of the ovary and endometrium presenting with malignant effusion. Naspin A is a useful immunohistochemical marker for confirming a diagnosis of clear cell carcinoma of the female reproductive tract, especially on cell blocks.
SMYD1 is the underlying gene for the AnWj‐negative blood group phenotype
Authors: Yahalom Vered , Pillar Nir , Zhao Yingying , Modan Shirley , Fang Mingyan , Yosephi Lydia , Asher Orna , Shinar Eilat , Celniker Gershon , Resnik‐Wolf Haike , Brantz Yael , Hauschner Hagit , Rosenberg Nurit , Cheng Le , Shomron Noam , Pras Elon
Published: June 2018

Background

AnWj is a high‐incidence blood group antigen associated with three clinical disorders: lymphoid malignancies, immunologic disorders, and autoimmune hemolytic anemia. The aim of this study was to determine the genetic basis of an inherited AnWj‐negative phenotype.

Methods

We identified a consanguineous family with two AnWj‐negative siblings and 4 additional AnWj‐negative individuals without known familial relationship to the index family. We performed exome sequencing in search for rare homozygous variants shared by the two AnWj‐negative siblings of the index family and searched for these variants in the four non‐related AnWj‐negative individuals.

Results

Exome sequencing revealed seven candidate genes that showed complete segregation in the index family and for which the two AnWj‐negative siblings were homozygous. However, the four additional non‐related AnWj‐negative subjects were homozygous for only one of these variants, rs114851602 (R320Q) in the SMYD1 gene. Considering the frequency of the minor allele, the chance of randomly finding 4 consecutive such individuals is 2.56 × 10−18.

Conclusion

We present genetic and statistical evidence that the R320Q substitution in SMYD1 underlies an inherited form of the AnWj‐negative blood group phenotype. The mechanism by which the mutation leads to this phenotype remains to be determined.
Can bone marrow cellularity help in predicting prognosis in myelodysplastic syndromes?
Authors: Greenbaum Uri , Joffe Erel , Filanovsky Kalman , Oster Howard S. , Kirgner Ilya , Levi Itai , Raanani Pia , Avivi Irit , Manor Esther , Man‐El Gili , Mittelman Moshe
Published: June 2018

Objectives

To ascertain the relevance of bone marrow cellularity (BMC) to the interpretation of blast percentage (blast%) in MDS prognostication.

Methods

We compared survival prediction based on blast% adjusted to different levels of cellularity, compared to the survival based on the original IPSS‐R blast% grouping.

Results

We analyzed 355 consecutive MDS patients. Cellularity, in and of itself or its interaction with blast%, was not associated with overall survival (OS). In a small subset of patients with a hypercellular marrow (15%; n = 26), dismal prognosis was observed at lower levels of blast%. For these cases OS was similar to higher IPSS‐R blast groups. For example, within the Intermediate group (blast% 5%‐10%), those with a hypercellular marrow and >6% blasts had an OS of 10 m similar to 16 m in the High (blast% 10%‐19%) blast group. These changes did not translate into a significant improvement in overall prognostic power of a cellularity‐adjusted IPSS‐R (C index 0.71 vs. 0.70).

Conclusion

Adjusting blast% to cellularity did not improve prognostication. However, within IPSS‐R‐defined blast groups, a small subset of patients with relatively higher blast% and hypercellularity may have a worse prognosis than expected.
Construction of low contracted 3D skin equivalents by genipin cross‐linking
Authors: Meng Qin , Shen Chong
Published: June 2018

Continuous contraction of 3D skin equivalents in construction and use restricts their applications in clinical and pharmaceutical practices. So far, no effective method has been developed to inhibit such contraction. Hence, low cytotoxic cross‐linkers, 1‐ethyl‐3‐3‐dimethylaminopropylcarbodiimide hydrochloride (EDC) and genipin, are investigated to reduce the contraction in this study. As found, both genipin and EDC at 0.2 and 0.4 mmol/L are nontoxic to collagen‐entrapped fibroblasts and upregulate the extracellular matrix expression of fibroblasts in cross‐linked collagen. Particularly, collagen cross‐linking by intermediate concentrations of genipin, specifically 0.4 mmol/L, greatly reduces the contraction of 3D skin equivalents from 87% to 28% (n = 9, P < 0.05), while the collagen after EDC cross‐linking at 0.4 mmol/L still presented severe contraction of 64% over a 21‐day follow‐up period. The inhibited contraction might relate to the increased gel stiffness and slowed collagen degradation. Moreover, the genipin cross‐linking does not impair the formation of epidermal layers and improves the epidermal‐dermal junction of skin equivalents as well. In this regard, genipin cross‐linking might facilitate the applications of 3D skin equivalents in clinical practices and pharmacology testing.
Evaluating and implementing social–ecological systems: A comprehensive approach to sustainable fisheries
Authors: Stephenson Robert L. , Paul Stacey , Wiber Melanie , Angel Eric , Benson Ashleen J. , Charles Anthony , Chouinard Omer , Clemens Marc , Edwards Dan , Foley Paul , Jennings Lindsay , Jones Owen , Lane Dan , McIsaac Jim , Mussells Claire , Neis Barbara , Nordstrom Bethany , Parlee Courtenay , Pinkerton Evelyn , Saunders Mark , Squires Kevin , Sumaila U. Rashid
Published: June 2018

Fisheries sustainability is recognized to have four pillars: ecological, economic, social (including cultural) and institutional (or governance). Although international agreements, and legislation in many jurisdictions, call for implementation of all four pillars of sustainability, the social, economic and institutional aspects (i.e., the “human dimensions”) have not been comprehensively and collectively addressed to date. This study describes a framework for comprehensive fisheries evaluation developed by the Canadian Fisheries Research Network (CFRN) that articulates the full spectrum of ecological, economic, social and institutional objectives required under international agreements, together with candidate performance indicators for sustainable fisheries. The CFRN framework is aimed at practical fisheries evaluation and management and has a relatively balanced distribution of elements across the four pillars of sustainability relative to 10 alternative management decision support tools and indicator scorecards, which are heavily focused on ecological and economic aspects. The CFRN framework has five immediate uses: (a) It can serve as a logic frame for defining management objectives; (b) it can be used to define alternate management options to achieve given objectives; (c) it can serve as a tool for comparing management scenarios/options in decision support frameworks; (d) it can be employed to create a report card for comprehensive fisheries management evaluation; and (e) it is a tool for practical implementation of an integrated social–ecological system approach.
Global species richness of hydrobiid snails determined by climate and evolutionary history
Authors: Miller Jonathan P. , Ramos Marian A. , Hauffe Torsten , Delicado Diana
Published: June 2018

Efforts to describe spatial patterns of freshwater diversity and to evaluate their underlying factors have traditionally been focused on some animal groups (e.g. amphibians, fish or dragonflies). Despite being a dominant component in continental aquatic ecosystems and crucial for determining priority areas for conservation, broad‐scale data on gastropod total species, endemic and threatened species richness are limited. Based on these biodiversity indices, we identify global hotspots, extinction risk along the elevational gradient and the drivers of species richness patterns in the largest group of freshwater gastropods, the family Hydrobiidae.

Given the strong dependency to a nonmarine aquatic environment, the observed richness patterns of extant hydrobiid species could be significantly influenced by large‐scale geography and dispersal processes as well as climatic conditions affecting continental ecosystems. Therefore, we tested several predictions for species richness derived from ecological and evolutionary hypotheses postulated for other freshwater groups.

Based on a comprehensive literature and biodiversity database review, we compiled the number of total, endemic and threatened species per freshwater ecoregion. We classified ecoregions as hotspots if each biodiversity index was in the top 25% of its range and assessed the effect of 13 environmental and evolutionary factors on species richness using generalised linear models.

We identified 906 species and 157 genera of Hydrobiidae showing mainly a Nearctic–Palearctic distribution and 19 biodiversity hotspots, most located across the Mediterranean Basin. In our data set, 83% of the species were endemic to a single ecoregion. Of the 43% non‐data deficient species, we found almost three times more threatened than non‐threatened species, and extinction risk peaked at 1,500 m a.s.l. Species richness was unequally distributed over biogeographic realms, increased with higher connectivity among ecoregions, and was negatively related with annual temperature range. Latitude and precipitation seasonality explained part of the richness variation by a nonlinear relationship.

The identified hotspots correspond with those of other freshwater taxa. The hump‐shaped relationship of extinction risk with elevation is likely the consequence of decreasing natural and anthropogenic perturbations at higher elevations. Global hotspots of Hydrobiidae richness represent areas of climatic stability with medium precipitation and temperature seasonality that are well connected with other hydrological basins. Our results illustrate that both evolutionary and environmental factors determine these global patterns and that future changes of the latter factors may affect hydrobiid richness.
Consumer‐resource stoichiometry as a predictor of trophic discrimination (Δ13C, Δ15N) in aquatic invertebrates
Authors: Brauns Mario , Boëchat Iola G. , de Carvalho Ana Paula C. , Graeber Daniel , Gücker Björn , Mehner Thomas , von Schiller Daniel
Published: June 2018

Trophic interactions are important pathways of energy and matter fluxes in food webs and are commonly quantified using stable isotopes of carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N). An important prerequisite for this approach is knowledge on the isotopic difference between consumer and resource (trophic discrimination, Δ13C and Δ15N). The range and mechanism causing variation of trophic discrimination factors remain unclear.

We conducted a controlled feeding experiment with 13 freshwater benthic invertebrate taxa fed with six resources to test if the C:N, C:P and N:P ratios of consumer, resources and consumer‐resource imbalances are significant predictors of Δ13C and Δ15N. We compiled the available literature on discrimination factors for aquatic invertebrates from controlled feeding experiments and field studies to compare the variation in trophic discrimination.

Molar C:N and C:P ratios of resources as well as consumer‐resource imbalances of C:N were significantly related to Δ13C and explained more than 40% of variation of Δ13C, respectively. Resource %N was unrelated to Δ15N, but consumer N:P explained 20% of variation of Δ15N.

Our data taken together with the literature compilation provide a mean Δ13C of 0.1‰ (SD = 2.2, N = 157) and a mean Δ15N of 2.6‰ (SD = 2.0, N = 155) for aquatic invertebrates to be used in mixing model analysis for estimating dietary proportions.

Our study bridges the currently separated disciplines of stable isotope discrimination and ecological stoichiometry and shows that resource C:N:P and consumer‐resource imbalances are powerful predictors of invertebrate trophic discrimination. Including these stoichiometric predictors into stable isotope mixing models may improve the estimates of the contribution of organic matter sources to the diet of invertebrate consumers. The overall discrimination factors for aquatic invertebrates derived from this study may help to produce precise estimates in trophic ecology if taxon‐specific discrimination factors are unavailable.
Amphibian‐mediated nutrient fluxes across aquatic–terrestrial boundaries of temporary wetlands
Authors: Fritz Kelley A. , Whiles Matt R.
Published: June 2018

Resource subsidies of energy and nutrients can be transported via physical forces, such as gravity, wind or water and biotic processes, such as animal migration or emigration. Migratory transport of nutrient subsidies may be associated with reproductive processes, such as the deposition of eggs or emigration of juveniles to adult habitats.

We quantified net nutrient fluxes associated with amphibian migrations across aquatic–terrestrial boundaries of eight temporary ponds in Illinois, USA. We measured carbon (C), nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) subsidies from terrestrial environments to ponds, in the form of eggs, and the reciprocal subsidies from ponds to terrestrial environments via juvenile emigration.

Juvenile emergence biomass did not follow patterns of egg biomass, as not all species bred successfully in each pond, resulting in variability in the magnitude of nutrient fluxes both across ponds and species.

The terrestrial environment was not always the recipient system of net nutrient fluxes. Hydroperiod, trophic interactions and species composition explained some dynamics of N and P subsidies.

Anthropogenic alterations that affect amphibian communities, such as habitat fragmentation and conversion for agriculture and urbanisation, could have large‐scale impacts on nutrient fluxes and connectivity of temporary pond–forest systems.
Reproductive performance and diving behaviour share a common sea‐ice concentration optimum in Adélie penguins (Pygoscelis adeliae)
Authors: Le Guen Camille , Kato Akiko , Raymond Ben , Barbraud Christophe , Beaulieu Michaël , Bost Charles‐André , Delord Karine , MacIntosh Andrew J. J. , Meyer Xavier , Raclot Thierry , Sumner Michael , Takahashi Akinori , Thiebot Jean‐Baptiste , Ropert‐Coudert Yan
Published: June 2018

The Southern Ocean is currently experiencing major environmental changes, including in sea‐ice cover. Such changes strongly influence ecosystem structure and functioning and affect the survival and reproduction of predators such as seabirds. These effects are likely mediated by reduced availability of food resources. As such, seabirds are reliable eco‐indicators of environmental conditions in the Antarctic region. Here, based on 9 years of sea‐ice data, we found that the breeding success of Adélie penguins (Pygoscelis adeliae) reaches a peak at intermediate sea‐ice cover (ca. 20%). We further examined the effects of sea‐ice conditions on the foraging activity of penguins, measured at multiple scales from individual dives to foraging trips. Analysis of temporal organisation of dives, including fractal and bout analyses, revealed an increasingly consistent behaviour during years with extensive sea‐ice cover. The relationship between several dive parameters and sea‐ice cover in the foraging area appears to be quadratic. In years of low and high sea‐ice cover, individuals adjusted their diving effort by generally diving deeper, more frequently and by resting at the surface between dives for shorter periods of time than in years with intermediate sea‐ice cover. Our study therefore suggests that sea‐ice cover is likely to affect the reproductive performance of Adélie penguins through its effects on foraging behaviour, as breeding success and most diving parameters share a common optimum. Some years, however, deviated from this general trend, suggesting that other factors (e.g. precipitation during the breeding season) might sometimes become preponderant over the sea‐ice effects on breeding and foraging performance. Our study highlights the value of monitoring fitness parameters and individual behaviour concomitantly over the long‐term to better characterize optimal environmental conditions and potential resilience of wildlife. Such an approach is crucial if we want to anticipate the effects of environmental change on Antarctic penguin populations.
Hydrological response of biological soil crusts to global warming: A ten‐year simulative study
Authors: Li Xin‐Rong , Jia Rong‐Liang , Zhang Zhi‐Shan , Zhang Peng , Hui Rong
Published: June 2018

Biological soil crusts across the desert regions play a key role in regional ecological security and ecological health. They are vital biotic components of desert ecosystems that maintain soil stability, fix carbon and nitrogen, influence the establishment of vascular plants, and serve as habitats for a large number of arthropods and microorganisms, as well as influencing soil hydrological processes. Changes in temperature and precipitation are expected to influence the functioning of desert ecosystems by altering biotic components such as the species composition of biological soil crusts. However, it remains unclear how these important components will respond to the prolonged warming and reduced precipitation that is predicted to occur with climate change. To evaluate how the hydrological properties of these biological soil crusts respond to these alterations, we used open‐top chambers over a 10‐year period to simulate warming and reduced precipitation. Infiltration, dew entrapment, and evaporation were measured as surrogates of the hydrological functioning of biological soil crusts. It was found that the ongoing warming coupled with reduced precipitation will more strongly affect moss in crustal communities than lichens and cyanobacteria, which will lead to a direct alteration of the hydrological performance of biological soil crusts. Reductions in moss abundance, surface cover, and biomass resulted in a change in structure and function of crustal communities, decreased dew entrapment, and increased infiltration and evaporation of biological soil crusts in desert ecosystems, which further impacted on the desert soil water balance.
Salivary hypofunction: An update on therapeutic strategies
Authors: Salum Fernanda G. , Medella‐Junior Francisco de Assis Carvalho , Figueiredo Maria A. Zancanaro , Cherubini Karen
Published: June 2018

Objective

To perform a literature review addressing the therapeutic strategies for salivary hypofunction.

Background

Qualitative and quantitative salivary dysfunctions predispose to changes in the oral mucosa and teeth, cause impairment to oral functions and negative impact on quality of life.

Materials and methods

A MEDLINE/PubMed search was conducted using the terms “Xerostomia” AND, “Saliva Artificial” OR, “Citric Acid,” “Malic Acid,” “Chewing Gum,” “Acupuncture” OR, “Pilocarpine” OR, “Bethanechol” OR, “Cevimeline” OR, “Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy” OR, “Stem Cell Therapy” OR “Genetic Therapy” and their Mesh Terms.

Results

We selected 25 clinical trials investigating the effects of salivary substitutes, chewing gum, malic and citric acids, pilocarpine, cevimeline, bethanechol, acupuncture, hyperbaric oxygen therapy and regenerative therapies on salivary hypofunction. In most studies, the number of participants was low and the follow‐up times short. The therapeutic modalities were classified according to the level of evidence on salivary dysfunction.

Conclusions

Pilocarpine and cevimeline had the strongest evidence of beneficial effect on salivary hypofunction. Citric and malic acids increase salivary flow but also increase the risk of erosion and dental caries. There are no controlled clinical trials supporting the efficacy of acupuncture, stem cell therapy and gene therapy on salivary dysfunction, although clinical observations suggest a promising effect. There is no evidence supporting salivary substitutes, chewing gum, bethanechol or hyperbaric oxygen on the treatment of salivary hypofunction.
Phenotypic and functional characterization of tumor‐derived endothelial cells isolated from primary human hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Zhao Wenjing , Yang Liping , Chen Xudong , Qian Hongyan , Zhang Suqing , Chen Yali , Luo Runhua , Shao Jingjing , Liu Huanliang , Chen Jianguo
Published: June 2018

Aims

Tumor endothelial cells (TECs) have been investigated using human tumor xenografts in mice models. In order to provide pure human TECs for the updating of clinical anti‐angiogenic cancer therapy, in the present study we established a protocol of purification of TECs derived from clinical hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and revealed the TEC features by in vitro and in vivo assays.

Methods

We isolated TECs from fresh surgical resections of HCC by magnetic‐activated cell sorting and purified by flow cytometry sorting upon CD31 expression, referred to as ECDHCCs. Next, we identified cultured ECDHCCs by morphology, phenotype, genotype, and functional assays.

Results

The ECDHCCs appeared as Weibel–Palade bodies under electron microscopy. They expressed endothelial markers, such as CD31, CD105, and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2, and expressed the genes that are associated with pro‐angiogenesis, especially vascular endothelial growth factor, epiregulin, and programmed cell death 10. Functionally, ECDHCCs were capable of tube formation, wound healing, and Transwell migration in vitro. These in vitro behaviors were validated by in vivo Matrigel plug assay in mice. Finally, comparison of ECDHCC with the Hep‐G2 liver cancer cell line showed there was no similarity of phenotype or function between these two types of cells.

Conclusions

Tumor endothelial cells derived from human HCC can be isolated and purified from clinical samples by flow cytometer. They have the endothelial phenotype and morphologic features and are capable of tube formation and migration. This study provides a useful model for researchers to study tumor angiogenesis and screening of candidate targets.
Level of interobserver variability estimation as a valuable tool: assessment of tumour budding in colon cancer
Authors: Martin Benedikt , Schäfer Eva , Jakubowicz Elzbieta , Mayr Patrick , Ihringer Regina , Anthuber Matthias , Schenkirsch Gerhard , Schaller Tina , Märkl Bruno
Published: June 2018

Aims

Tumour budding is considered to be a good marker for progression and prognosis in colorectal carcinomas. A uniform classification system has been established recently. The natural element of uncertainty in the practice of human medicine is also exhibited in the assessment of tumour budding. We tested the hypothesis that interobserver variability can be estimated during the assessment process and investigated its potential clinical implication.

Methods and results

Six investigators with different levels of experience could perceive different levels of difficulty (LOD) and estimated different levels of interobserver variability (LOIV) (Li1, lower than average; Li2, average; Li3, higher than average) during the assessment of tumour budding in 244 cases of colon cancer (pT3/4). In total, the LOIV showed following distribution: Li1: 36.1%, Li2: 43.9% and Li3: 20.0%. The LOIV was correlated significantly with the LOD given by the investigator. In total, the agreement rates with the final consensus classification were: Li1: 93.4%, Li2: 78.5% and Li3: 58.4%. The relative risk of disagreement with the final consensus classification was more than six times higher when a case was estimated to have a high rather than a low interobserver variability.

Conclusion

Our data show that the investigator can estimate the interobserver variability during the ongoing rating process in pT3/4 colon cancer. The LOIV/LOD seems to be a valuable parameter of the assessment quality. For Li3 cases further measures seem mandatory.
Quality control system criticism raised by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board in non‐US jurisdictions and earnings quality of non‐cross‐listed clients
Authors: Van Linden Christophe , Mazza Tatiana
Published: June 2018

This study investigates the association between Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) inspection‐related criticisms of an accounting firm's system of quality control and earnings quality of non‐cross‐listed clients in non‐US jurisdictions. We also assess whether this association is different in subsamples where a local independent inspection regime is present compared with jurisdictions without such a regime. We use a difference‐in‐difference design to assess changes in accruals quality in pre‐ and post‐inspection periods. Our sample includes 2006–2011 data on first‐time, international PCAOB inspections of Big 4 accounting firms in 19 countries. Our findings indicate that earnings quality improvement of non‐cross‐listed clients after international PCAOB inspections is higher for inspections with (versus without) PCAOB‐detected deficiencies of the system of quality control. We also find that this improvement occurs in countries with independent oversight of the audit profession.
Assessment of patient understanding of their medicines: interviews with community dwelling older Australians
Authors: Corre Lauren J , Hotham Elizabeth , Tsimbinos Jacquie , Todd Ian , Scarlett Greg , Suppiah Vijayaprakash
Published: June 2018

Objective

To identify patterns of medication load, client’s care team, coordination of healthcare and clients’ understanding of their medications.

Methods

Face-to-face interviews were conducted with community-dwelling older Australians between June and August 2017 in three community pharmacies in Adelaide, South Australia.

Key findings

Forty interviews were conducted. On average, participants were taking 7.53 medicines with 77.5% using five or more regularly. Lack of collaboration between healthcare professionals, need for increased communication between prescribers and increased patient education on medicines, were highlighted. This study demonstrates that polypharmacy and inappropriate prescribing are occurring within the community pharmacy setting, but shows insight into how these concerns can be overcome, by implementing pharmacist-led services such as non-dispensing pharmacists in community pharmacies.

Conclusion

Careful consideration when prescribing and effective communication are required to minimise risks associated with polypharmacy in this population.
Surgical treatment and strategy in patients with multiple pressure sores
Authors: Chiang I‐Han , Wang Chih‐Hsin , Tzeng Yuan‐Sheng
Published: June 2018

Pressure sores remain a common health problem, particularly among the physically limited or bedridden elderly, and can cause significant morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to present our surgical treatment and strategy for patients with multiple pressure sores. Between January 2010 and December 2016, 18 patients were enrolled. After adequate debridement, pressure sores were managed based on our treatment protocol. Patients' age, aetiology, defect size and location, flap reconstruction, outcome, and follow‐up period were reviewed. A total of 10 men and 8 women (average age, 82.3 years) with a mean follow‐up period of 28.3 months (6‐72 months) were included. The mean defect area was 63.7 cm2. The most common aetiology of the bedridden state was cerebrovascular accident (38.89%), and the most frequent sores were trochanteric pressure sores (53.57%). The average operative time and blood loss were 105.5 minutes and 100.8 mL, respectively. No haemodynamic variation or blood transfusion was noted during the surgery. The complication rate for each sore was 10.7%, including late recurrence. In conclusion, treating pressure ulcers requires careful patient education, intensive multidisciplinary optimisation, and meticulous wound care, and our treatment protocol ensures a shorter surgery time, less bleeding, and low complication rate.
In situ Y2Si2O7 coatings on SiC fibers: Thermodynamic analysis and processing
Authors: Mogilevsky Pavel , Boakye Emmanuel E. , Key Thomas S. , Parthasarathy Triplicane A. , Hay Randall S. , Cinibulk Michael K.
Published: June 2018

It is shown using thermodynamic analysis and kinetic modeling that a processing window exists for the formation of Y2Si2O7 coatings on SiC. The proposed method is validated using an experimental procedure in which the in situ formation of Y2Si2O7 on a commercial SiC‐based fiber is demonstrated. The method involves the deposition of YPO4 on preoxidized fine diameter SiC‐based fibers, and heat treating the coated fibers within a calculated processing window of oxygen partial pressure, temperature, degree of preoxidation, and coating thickness. The results are promising for the development of environmentally resistant interfacial coatings for SiC‐fiber reinforced SiC‐based matrix composites. The proposed and validated approach allows a low‐cost method to obtain continuous hermetic coatings on SiC fibers with interfacial properties adequate for tough composite behavior that resists degradation under turbine engine conditions.
Lipopolysaccharide enhances ADAR2 which drives Hirschsprung's disease by impairing miR‐142‐3p biogenesis
Authors: Peng Lei , Zhang Hua , Su Yang , Shen Qiyang , Du Chunxia , Xie Hua , Li Hongxing , Yan Jin , Shen Ziyang , Jiang Weiwei , Xia Yankai , Xu Xiaoqun , Tang Weibing
Published: June 2018

Researches over the past decade suggest that lipopolysaccharide is a dominant driver of gastrointestinal motility and could damage the enteric neuron of rat or porcine. However, it remains poorly defined whether LPS participates in Hirschsprung's disease (HSCR). Here, we discovered that LPS increased in HSCR tissues. Furthermore, LPS treatment suppressed the proliferation and differentiation of neural precursor cells (NPCs) or proliferation and migration of human 293T cells. ADAR2 (adenosine deaminase acting on RNA2)‐mediated post‐transcriptional adenosine‐to‐inosine RNA editing promotes cancer progression. We show that increased LPS activates ADAR2 and subsequently regulates the A‐to‐I RNA editing which suppresses the miR‐142 expression. RNA sequencing combined with qRT‐PCR suggested that ADAR2 restrain cell migration and proliferation via pri‐miR‐142 editing and STAU1 up‐regulation. In conclusion, the findings illustrate that LPS participates in HSCR through the LPS‐ADAR2‐miR‐142‐STAU1 axis.
The regulatory role of microRNAs in angiogenesis‐related diseases
Authors: Sun Li‐Li , Li Wen‐Dong , Lei Feng‐Rui , Li Xiao‐Qiang
Published: June 2018

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non‐coding RNAs that regulate gene expression at a post‐transcriptional level via either the degradation or translational repression of a target mRNA. They play an irreplaceable role in angiogenesis by regulating the proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, migration and tube formation of angiogenesis‐related cells, which are indispensable for multitudinous physiological and pathological processes, especially for the occurrence and development of vascular diseases. Imbalance between the regulation of miRNAs and angiogenesis may cause many diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, aneurysm, Kawasaki disease, aortic dissection, phlebothrombosis and diabetic microvascular complication. Therefore, it is important to explore the essential role of miRNAs in angiogenesis, which might help to uncover new and effective therapeutic strategies for vascular diseases. This review focuses on the interactions between miRNAs and angiogenesis, and miRNA‐based biomarkers in the diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of angiogenesis‐related diseases, providing an update on the understanding of the clinical value of miRNAs in targeting angiogenesis.
Comparative evaluation of maximum parsimony and Bayesian phylogenetic reconstruction using empirical morphological data
Authors: Schrago Carlos G. , Aguiar Barbara O. , Mello Beatriz
Published: June 2018

The use of discrete morphological data in Bayesian phylogenetics has increased significantly over the last years with the proposal of total evidence analysis and the treatment of fossils as terminal taxa in Bayesian molecular dating. Both approaches rely on the assumption that probabilistic Markov models reasonably accommodate all the complexity of morphological evolution of discrete traits. The performance of such morphological models used in Bayesian phylogenetics has been thoroughly investigated, but conclusions so far were based mostly on simulated data. In this study, we have surveyed MorphoBank and obtained a large number of morphological matrices to evaluate Bayesian phylogenetic inference (BI) under Lewis’ Mk model in comparison with the maximum parsimony (MP) algorithm. We found that trees estimated by both methods frequently differed and that BI generated a larger amount of polytomic tree topologies. The number of trees contained in the 95% Bayesian credibility interval was significantly greater than the number of equally parsimonious trees. We also investigated which factors mostly influenced the topological difference between maximum parsimony and Bayesian tree topologies and found that the number of terminals in morphological matrices was the variable with the highest association with the topological distance between trees inferred by BI and MP. Surprisingly, we show that differences between both approaches were not influenced by increasing sample size. Our results, which were based on a large set of empirical matrices, corroborate recent findings that BI is less precise than MP.
Effects of elevated temperature on osmoregulation and stress responses in Atlantic salmon Salmo salar smolts in fresh water and seawater
Authors: Vargas‐Chacoff Luis , Regish Amy M. , Weinstock Andrew , McCormick Stephen D.
Published: June 2018

Smolting in Atlantic salmon Salmo salar is a critical life‐history stage that is preparatory for downstream migration and entry to seawater that is regulated by abiotic variables including photoperiod and temperature. The present study was undertaken to determine the interaction of temperature and salinity on salinity tolerance, gill osmoregulatory proteins and cellular and endocrine stress in S. salar smolts. Fish were exposed to rapid changes in temperature (from 14 to 17, 20 and 24°C) in fresh water (FW) and seawater (SW), with and without prior acclimation and sampled after 2 and 8 days. Fish exposed simultaneously to SW and 24°C experienced 100% mortality, whereas no mortality occurred in any of the other groups. The highest temperature also resulted in poor ion regulation in SW with or without prior SW acclimation, whereas no substantial effect was observed in FW. Gill Na+–K+‐ATPase (NKA) activity increased in SW fish compared to FW fish and decreased with high temperature in both FW and SW. Gill Nkaα1a abundance was high in FW and Nkaα1b and Na+–K+‐2Cl‐ cotransporter high in SW, but all three were lower at the highest temperature. Gill Hsp70 levels were elevated in FW and SW at the highest temperature and increased with increasing temperature 2 days following direct transfer to SW. Plasma cortisol levels were elevated in SW at the highest temperature. Our results indicate that there is an important interaction of salinity and elevated temperature on osmoregulatory performance and the cellular stress response in S. salar, with an apparent threshold for osmoregulatory failure in SW above 20°C.
Otolith development in wild populations of stickleback: Jones & Hynes method does not apply to most populations
Authors: Singkam Abdul R. , MacColl Andrew D. C.
Published: June 2018

This paper critiques Jones & Hynes (1950) findings by analysing sequential samples of otoliths from three wild populations ofGasterosteus aculeatusfrom North Uist, Scotland and Nottingham, England. Contrary to Jones & Hynes (1950), but coincident with the finding of later researchers, our results showed that no true translucent ring formed in the otolith ofG. aculeatusduring their first summer. The first translucent ring was probably starting to be formed by the end of summer and was completed by the end of their first winter. There was no second opaque ring in the otoliths ofG. aculeatusbefore they passed their first winter. The second opaque ring was just starting to appear by early April of the second year in the southern populationi.e. Nottingham, but later, by May, in the northern populationsi.e. North Uist. Formation of the opaque ring inG. aculeatusmostly occurs in spring and summer, with younger fish starting earlier. In contrast, the formation of translucent rings is mostly during autumn and winter, but can be more widespread through the year, possibly as a result of reproductive investment.
Association of the whale shark Rhincodon typus with the cannonball jellyfish Stomolophus meleagris
Authors: López‐Martínez Juana , Porchas‐Quijada Marcos , Álvarez‐Tello Francisco J. , Porchas‐Cornejo Marco A.
Published: June 2018

This study describes the first record of the whale shark Rhincodon typus association with the cannonball jellyfish Stomolophus meleagris in the Gulf of California, Mexico. Whale sharks were observed swimming and feeding among swarms of jellyfish, suggesting competition and predatory behaviour given the overlap in food preferences between both species. This finding is relevant because of the species‐wide distribution and the importance of these interactions, which should be considered in conservation strategies of R. typus and management of cannonball jellyfish fisheries.
The southernmost records of Brotula barbata (Bloch & Schneider 1801) (Ophidiiformes: Ophidiidae) in the western Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Bauer Arthur B. , Fischer Luciano G. , Tomás Acácio R. G. , Santos Roberta A. , Mincarone Michael M.
Published: June 2018

The present study reports the occurrence of the bearded brotula, Brotula barbata, in four different localities off southern Brazil. These records extend the species' known distribution limit southwards, beyond Rio de Janeiro, to the state of Rio Grande do Sul (30° 50′ S). Morphometric and meristic data for the specimens reported herein are provided and discussed.
The effects of recombinant human epidermal growth factor containing ointment on wound healing and post inflammatory hyperpigmentation prevention after fractional ablative skin resurfacing: A split‐face randomized controlled study
Authors: Techapichetvanich Thanya , Wanitphakdeedecha Rungsima , Iamphonrat Thanawan , Phothong Weeranut , Eimpunth Sasima , Jane Hidajat Inneke , Manuskiatti Woraphong
Published: June 2018

Background

Epidermal growth factor (EGF) is one of the important peptides in wound healing process. The effects of EGF have been increasingly studied in various types of ulcers. However, data on postablative laser resurfacing wound is still limited.

Objectives

To evaluate the effects of the topical EGF ointment on wound healing process and postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) prevention after fractional ablative laser resurfacing.

Materials and methods

This is a randomized split‐face study. Nineteen healthy subjects were enrolled and completed follow up protocol. Patients received single treatment of fractional carbon dioxide laser on both cheeks. After randomization, each patient was assigned to apply one side of the face with topical EGF ointment and another side with petrolatum. Wound healing was evaluated by duration of scab shedding, duration of postlaser erythema, erythema index, and transepidermal water loss on the daily follow up period of seven days after treatment. PIH was evaluated at 2, 3 weeks and 1, 2 months follow up by photographs and melanin index.

Results

Most of patients were female with Fitzpatrick skin phototype III to V. Comparing with control (petrolatum), EGF treated side showed no significant difference in duration of scab shedding, duration of postlaser erythema, erythema index, and transepidermal water loss (P‐value = .58, .22, .78, and .51, respectively). Incidence of PIH was 52.6% on EGF side and 57.9% on petrolatum side, however, it was not statistically different (P = .56). The melanin index was also not different as well (P = .96).

Conclusion

Topical EGF might provide significant wound healing stimulation for chronic wound more than acute wound. Further studies, especially in post laser wound or other cosmetic purposes are needed.
Removal of retained products of conception showing marked vascularity without uterine artery embolization: Two case reports
Authors: Usui Hirokazu , Sato Asuka , Okayama Jun , Suzuki Yoshiya , Omoto Akiko , Shozu Makio
Published: June 2018

Retained products of conception with marked vascularity can cause massive postabortal or post‐partum bleeding. Uterine artery embolization is effective for uterus preservation but does not assure fertility preservation. Thus, the optimal treatment for retained products of conception with marked vascularity is uncertain. Here, we report two cases of retained products of conception with marked vascularity: one early abortion and one hydatidiform mole, which were successfully resolved by dilation and removal of the retained products, without uterine artery embolization. We pretreated the cervical dilation using two or more laminaria tents and named this technique the ‘maximum laminaria procedure’. We observed that the vascularity disappeared just after the laminaria tents were removed, and subsequently, we could remove the retained products with minimal bleeding, without uterine artery embolization. This protocol might become a standard treatment for retained products of conception with marked vascularity.
Liquid‐based oral brush cytology in the diagnosis of oral leukoplakia using a modified Bethesda Cytology system
Authors: Alsarraf Abdulhameed , Kujan Omar , Farah Camile S.
Published: June 2018

Objectives

This study aimed to develop diagnostic criteria to identify oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs) using oral liquid‐based brush cytology (OLBC), and to compare its accuracy with the gold standard of surgical biopsy and histopathological diagnosis of oral leukoplakia.

Methods

A total number of 134 samples were collected. All patients underwent Orcellex® brush biopsy with liquid‐based cytology immediately prior to diagnostic surgical biopsy. A preliminary study was first performed utilizing samples from 4 distinct lesion groups (20 samples) to revise the 2014 Bethesda Cytology system for use with OLBC specimens.

Results

Five diagnostic groups of OLBC for the diagnosis of OSCC and OPMDs with relevant cytopathological features were established. From the 114 samples in the test group, 101 were included. The other 13 were excluded due to inadequate cellularity. The test showed sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of 75%, 76%, 76% and 75%, respectively, and an accuracy of 75%. The use of the oral brush sampling technique was well accepted by multiple clinicians; however, local anaesthetic was suggested to be useful prior to performing the brush biopsy.

Conclusions

Oral liquid‐based brush cytology using the Orcellex® brush and ThinPrep® system is a simple and minimally invasive procedure for adequate intraepithelial sampling and can be used as an adjunct for the early detection of oral cancer. The modified Bethesda system established useful means for OLBC assessment that can be utilized in future studies to increase the standardization of oral cytology assessment.
Veblen goods and urban distinction: The economic geography of conspicuous consumption
Authors: Currid‐Halkett Elizabeth , Lee Hyojung , Painter Gary D.
Published: June 2018

A fundamental observation of 21st century cities is that they have become great centers of consumption. In this paper, we seek to understand the geographic variation in consumer behavior. Using Consumer Expenditure Survey (CE), we analyze how consumption differs across 21 major U.S. metropolitan areas, and the association between urban characteristics and consumption. We extend previous geographic analysis of consumption to include luxury goods that are socially visible (conspicuous consumption) and luxury goods that are relatively less visible (inconspicuous consumption). Our analysis shows that conspicuous consumption is more sensitive to an urban context than is inconspicuous consumption.