bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnosing phyllodes tumours of the breast: how successful are our current preoperative assessment modalities?
Authors: Yii Nathan , Read Tavis , Tan Chuan Chien , Ng Suat Li , Bennett Ian
Published: August 2018

Background

To assess the efficacy of the diagnostic modalities used in the preoperative assessment of phyllodes tumours.

Methods

In this retrospective study of patients treated at Princess Alexandra Hospital, 51 phyllodes tumours in 49 patients diagnosed between 2005 and 2016 were reviewed with regard to their preoperative findings to assess which modalities, including clinical findings, mammography, ultrasound, fine needle aspiration and core biopsy, were most diagnostically discriminating. Data on demographics and management were also collected.

Results

While 90.2% of lesions were clinically palpable and an abnormality was seen in 86.1% of lesions subjected to mammography, the findings in relation to these two modalities were essentially those of non‐discriminatory masses. Furthermore, although 100% of the phyllodes lesions were sonographically visible, suspicion of a phyllodes tumour was only noted in 21.6% of cases. Fine needle aspiration yielded results suspicious for phyllodes in 21.1% of cases while core biopsy resulted in confirmed or suspected phyllodes tumour diagnoses in 69.2% of instances. Serial measurements of phyllodes tumours yielded an average growth rate of 8.04 mm per 365 days.

Conclusion

In the preoperative diagnosis of phyllodes tumours of the breast, ultrasound was a more discriminating imaging modality compared to mammography, and core biopsy demonstrated a superior accuracy of diagnosis over fine needle biopsy. A significant increase in lesion size over a short timeframe should also alert to the possibility of a phyllodes tumour.
Preliminary biomechanical results of a novel pin configuration for external fixation of vertical shear pelvic fractures
Authors: Stewart Rebecca , Kieser David C. , Scholze Mario , Hammer Niels , Stone Brad , Hooper Gary
Published: August 2018

Background

Vertical shear fractures are unstable and potentially life‐threatening injuries that require urgent reduction and stabilization. The aim of this study was to compare the biomechanical efficacy of three different external fixation pin configurations for vertical shear pelvic fractures in a cadaveric model. We hypothesized that a modified external fixation pin configuration with a crestal (CR) pin in the stable hemipelvis and bilateral supra‐acetabular (SA) pins provides the greatest overall stability to axial loading.

Methods

The force to failure within a standard standing axial load (maximum 650 N) was tested on 10 human cadaveric pelvises with vertical shear fractures. Three pin configurations were compared including iliac crest (IC), SA and a modified SA frame with a third CR pin on the stable hemipelvis. Both displacement at the posterior pelvis at 650 N and force to failure of >25 mm displacement was recorded.

Results

The mean force to failure was highest with CR (499 N), then IC (350 N) and then SA (265 N) pin configurations, being statistically non‐significant (P = 0.165). The minimum force to failure followed a similar trend with 296, 68 and 43 N for CR, IC and SA, respectively. About 1/4 CR, 1/4 IC and 2/9 SA pins sustained 650 N or more without failure.

Conclusion

It was shown that this new design may reliably withstand a seated physiological load of 250 N. However, none of the three pin configurations tested can reliably withstand a standing load of 650 N. Further experiments are needed to quantify these findings under physiological loading.
Bile acid homeostasis and intestinal dysbiosis in alcoholic hepatitis
Authors: Ciocan Dragos , Voican Cosmin Sebastian , Wrzosek Laura , Hugot Cindy , Rainteau Dominique , Humbert Lydie , Cassard Anne‐Marie , Perlemuter Gabriel
Published: August 2018

Background

Intestinal microbiota plays an important role in bile acid homeostasis.

Aim

To study the structure of the intestinal microbiota and its function in bile acid homeostasis in alcoholic patients based on the severity of alcoholic liver disease.

Methods

In this prospective study, we included four groups of active alcoholic patients (N = 108): two noncirrhotic, with (noCir_AH, n = 13) or without alcoholic hepatitis (noCir_noAH, n = 61), and two cirrhotic, with (Cir_sAH, n = 17) or without severe alcoholic hepatitis (Cir_noAH, n = 17). Plasma and faecal bile acid profiles and intestinal microbiota composition were assessed.

Results

Plasma levels of total bile acids (84.6 vs 6.8 μmol/L, P < 0.001) and total ursodeoxycholic acid (1.3 vs 0.3 μmol/L, P = 0.03) were higher in cirrhosis with severe alcoholic hepatitis (Cir_sAH) than Cir_noAH, whereas total faecal (2.4 vs 11.3, P = 0.01) and secondary bile acids (0.7 vs 10.7, P < 0.01) levels were lower. Cir_sAH patients had a different microbiota than Cir_noAH patients: at the phyla level, the abundance of Actinobacteria (9 vs 1%, P = 0.01) was higher and that of Bacteroidetes was lower (25 vs 40%, P = 0.04). Moreover, the microbiota of Cir_sAH patients showed changes in the abundance of genes involved in 15 metabolic pathways, including upregulation of glutathione metabolism, and downregulation of biotin metabolism.

Conclusions

Patients with Cir_sAH show specific changes of the bile acid pool with a shift towards more hydrophobic and toxic species that may be responsible for the specific microbiota changes. Conversely, the microbiota may also alter the bile acid pool by transforming primary to secondary bile acids, leading to a vicious cycle.
Idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension – a unrecognized cause of high‐shear high‐flow haemostatic defects (otherwise referred to as acquired von Willebrand syndrome) in children
Authors: Pelland‐Marcotte Marie‐Claude , Humpl Tilman , James Paula D. , Rand Margaret L. , Bouskill Vanessa , Reyes Janette T. , Bowman Mackenzie L. , Carcao Manuel D.
Published: August 2018

Acquired von Willebrand syndrome (AVWS) is reported in high‐flow high‐shear congenital cardiac disorders. We hypothesized that the narrowed pulmonary vasculature in idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (IPAH) may induce AVWS. We conducted a cross‐sectional evaluation of children with IPAH. Patients with bleeding symptoms and/or laboratory abnormalities (thrombocytopenia, anomalies in coagulation screening tests) were tested in‐depth for haemostatic defects. Fourteen children were followed with IPAH of which 8 were eligible. Four children exhibited abnormal bleeding scores (International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis Bleeding Assessment Tool: 3–5). All 8 patients showed very prolonged platelet function analyser (PFA)‐100 closure times. Six children demonstrated either mild thrombocytopenia or low‐normal von Willebrand factor (VWF) antigen (VWF:Ag) or VWF activity [mean (range), in iu/dl: VWF:Ag: 70 (61–91); VWF activity: 57 (34–70)]. Average VWF collagen binding capacity (VWF:CB) was 64 iu/dl (range: 53–123 iu/dl), with low‐normal VWF activity/VWF:Ag or VWF:CB/VWF:Ag ratios occurring in five patients. All children had normal multimers distribution patterns. One patient underwent a lung transplantation, with normalization of haemostatic abnormalities post‐surgery. Overall, 8 out of 14 children with IPAH had mild to moderate bleeding symptoms and/or laboratory abnormalities in keeping with AVWS. Normalization of the haemostatic defects following lung transplantation and lack of family history of bleeding attests to the acquired nature of their defects.
Utility of the quasi‐monomorphic variation range in unresectable metastatic colorectal cancer patients
Authors: Bando Hideaki , Okamoto Wataru , Fukui Takafumi , Yamanaka Takeharu , Akagi Kiwamu , Yoshino Takayuki
Published: August 2018

Microsatellite Instability (MSI) status is an established predictive biomarker for the treatment of the anti‐programmed death 1 (PD‐1) antibody. The current approach to determine the MSI status in tumours requires matched normal DNA. Some mononucleotide microsatellite markers are known to have few variant alleles in both Caucasians and Asians. Therefore, the length of these microsatellite makers is almost confined within the quasi‐monomorphic variation range (QMVR). Considering the application of MSI testing for various types of cancers, a simple, sensitive and inexpensive method is desired. This study assessed the clinical utility of the QMVR for determining the MSI status in patients with unresectable metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). The study enrolled 435 patients with mCRC. The concordance of the MSI status in mCRC between the standard method using tumour DNA plus matched normal DNA and the testing method using only tumour DNA was evaluated. Eleven (2.5%) MSI‐high cases were detected by both the standard and testing methods. The sensitivity and specificity of the testing method were both 100%, indicating complete concordance between the methods. Among the mononucleotide markers, three and two patients showed discordance for NR‐21 and BAT‐25, respectively. Results from MSI testing with normal tissue indicated that four of five patients had rare germline variants outside the QMVR. For BAT‐26, NR‐24 and MONO‐27, all patients showed complete concordance. Using the QMVR, the MSI status of mCRC can be determined without matched normal DNA.
Novel therapeutic strategies for advanced ovarian cancer by using induced pluripotent stem cell‐derived myelomonocytic cells producing interferon beta
Authors: Imamura Yuko , Tashiro Hironori , Tsend‐Ayush Gandolgor , Haruta Miwa , Dashdemberel Narantuya , Komohara Yoshihiro , Tsuboki Junko , Takaishi Kiyomi , Ohba Takashi , Nishimura Yasuharu , Katabuchi Hidetaka , Senju Satoru
Published: August 2018

Although first‐line chemotherapy has a high rate of complete responses in ovarian cancer patients, the vast majority of patients present with recurrent disease that has become refractory to conventional chemotherapy. Peritoneal dissemination and malignant ascites are the hallmarks of recurrent or advanced ovarian cancer and severely reduce quality of life. Development of therapeutic measures to treat such patients is eagerly anticipated. Macrophage infiltration is observed in various types of cancer including epithelial ovarian cancer. In addition, macrophages are involved in the formation of spheroids in the malignant ascites of ovarian cancer and promote cancer growth. iPS‐ML, macrophage‐like myelomonocytic cells generated from human induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells, made close contacts with ovarian cancer cells in vitro. We hypothesized that, if we inoculate iPS‐ML‐producing IFN‐β (iPS‐ML/IFN‐β) into the peritoneal cavity of patients with ovarian cancer, IFN‐β produced by the iPS‐ML/IFN‐β would efficiently act on the cancer cells to suppress cancer growth. To evaluate this hypothesis, we injected iPS‐ML/IFN‐β into SCID mice bearing peritoneally disseminated human ovarian cancer cells, SKOV3. Immunohistochemical analysis of the intraperitoneal tumors detected iPS‐ML/IFN‐β infiltrating into the cancer tissues. Therapy with iPS‐ML/IFN‐β significantly suppressed tumor progression. In addition, dramatic reduction of cancer‐related ascites was observed. Collectively, it is suggested that iPS‐ML/IFN‐β therapy offers a new approach for the treatment of patients with advanced ovarian cancer.
Equity crowdfunding in Germany and the United Kingdom: Follow‐up funding and firm failure
Authors: Hornuf Lars , Schmitt Matthias , Stenzhorn Eliza
Published: August 2018

Manuscript type

Empirical

Research question/issue

Today, startups frequently obtain financing via the Internet through many small contributions of nonsophisticated investors. Yet, little is known whether these startups can ultimately build enduring businesses. This study investigates the determinants of follow‐up funding and firm failure after an equity crowdfunding campaign has taken place.

Research findings/insights

We use hand‐collected data from 13 different equity crowdfunding portals and 413 firms that ran at least one successful equity crowdfunding campaign in Germany or the United Kingdom between 2011 and 2016. Our findings show that German firms that received equity crowdfunding stood a higher chance of obtaining follow‐up funding through business angels or venture capitalists but also had a higher likelihood of failure. The number of senior managers and the number of initial venture capital investors both had a positive impact on obtaining postcampaign financing, whereas the average age of the senior management team had a negative impact. The number of initial venture capital investors and the valuation of the firm were significant predictors increasing the hazard of firm failure, whereas the number of senior managers and the amount raised during previous equity crowdfunding campaigns had a negative impact.

Theoretical/academic implications

This study provides some first empirical evidence regarding the firm and campaign characteristics that determine follow‐up funding and firm failure after an equity crowdfunding campaign has taken place. Given the absence of research on this topic so far, this study inevitably remains original and exploratory to some extent. The empirical findings suggest various avenues of research for human capital theory, organizational ecology, and the comparative corporate governance literature.

Practitioner/policy implications

Identifying influencing factors of follow‐up funding and firm survival is important to make this new and potentially welfare enhancing form of entrepreneurial finance more predictable by decreasing the risk of individual investments. Furthermore, this study offers insights to policy makers, which are currently expected to implement appropriate regulations for this new market segment. In addition, it provides important insights for portal managers as well as firms raising capital via equity crowdfunding, which may learn about their chances to build an enduring business. https://youtu.be/w_4lIfnOaQY
Printed thermochromic displays
Authors: Kavčič Urška , Mraović Matija , Bračko Sabina , Muck Deja
Published: August 2018

Thermochromic displays, which were evaluated in this study, combine printed electronics with the thermochromism phenomenon. Conductive lines printed on the reverse side and thermochromic printing ink printed on the front side of cardboard packaging form a thermochromic display that gives cardboard packaging additional value. Displays were printed on different printing materials, and thermochromic printing ink was deposited in one and two layers. In addition, half of the samples were varnished. The influence of the printing material, the thickness of the thermochromic printing ink layer, the varnish, the high temperature, and light fastness on the display's operability were all evaluated. It was clearly shown that the choice of printing material plays a crucial role in the display's operability. Moreover, high temperature and light fastness also have a significant influence, although the impact is negligible when the display is used at room temperature.
Expectations-Based Reference-Dependence and Choice Under Risk
Authors: Freeman David J
Published: August 2018

This article characterises the behavioural content of a model of choice under risk with reference-dependent preferences and endogenous expectations-based reference points based on the preferred personal equilibrium model of Kőszegi and Rabin (2006). The combination of reference-dependent preferences and endogenous reference points leads to violations of the Independence Axiom and can also lead to violations of the Weak Axiom of Revealed Preference. An axiomatic characterisation shows that the model places testable restrictions on choice under risk.
Interleukin‐10 negatively modulates extracellular signal‐regulated kinases 1 and 2 in aorta from hypertensive mouse induced by angiotensin II infusion
Authors: Bressan Alecsander F. , Fonseca Gisele A. , Tostes Rita C. , Webb R. Clinton , Lima Victor Vitorino , Giachini Fernanda Regina
Published: August 2018

The activation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1 and 2 (ERK 1/2) pathway promotes increased vascular contractility in angiotensin II (Ang II)‐induced hypertensive mice. Interleukin‐10 (IL‐10) is an immune‐regulatory cytokine with the ability to prevent vascular hypercontractility during hypertension. We hypothesized that IL‐10 would downregulate vascular ERK 1/2 activation during Ang II‐induced hypertension. Wild‐type (WT) or IL‐10 knockout (IL‐10−/−) mice received Ang II infusion (90 ηg.min) or vehicle (saline), via osmotic mini‐pumps (0.25 μL/h for 14 days), whereas another WT group were infused with exogenous IL‐10 (0.5 ηg/min, 14 days) simultaneously, or not, with Ang II. Aortic rings were mounted in a myograph, and concentration‐response curves to phenylephrine were evaluated, in the presence or absence of ERK 1/2 inhibitor (PD98059, 10 μm, 40 min). Protein expression of vascular ERK 1/2 was determined by Western blot. Ang II infusion increased the maximal contractile response in both WT and IL‐10−/− mice. Concomitant infusion of IL‐10 and Ang II prevented hypercontractility in the vasculature. Exogenous IL‐10 infusion prevented ERK 1/2 activation and hypercontractility, induced by Ang II. These findings suggest that IL‐10 negatively modulates ERK 1/2 activation and prevents hypercontractility during Ang II‐induced hypertension.
Opportunities for climate‐risk reduction through effective fisheries management
Authors: Cheung William W. L. , Jones Miranda C. , Reygondeau Gabriel , Frölicher Thomas L.
Published: August 2018

Risk of impact of marine fishes to fishing and climate change (including ocean acidification) depend on the species’ ecological and biological characteristics, as well as their exposure to over‐exploitation and climate hazards. These human‐induced hazards should be considered concurrently in conservation risk assessment. In this study, we aim to examine the combined contributions of climate change and fishing to the risk of impacts of exploited fishes, and the scope for climate‐risk reduction from fisheries management. We combine fuzzy logic expert system with species distribution modeling to assess the extinction risks of climate and fishing impacts of 825 exploited marine fish species across the global ocean. We compare our calculated risk index with extinction risk of marine species assessed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Our results show that 60% (499 species) of the assessed species are projected to experience very high risk from both overfishing and climate change under a “business‐as‐usual” scenario (RCP 8.5 with current status of fisheries) by 2050. The risk index is significantly and positively related to level of IUCN extinction risk (ordinal logistic regression, p < 0.0001). Furthermore, the regression model predicts species with very high risk index would have at least one in five (>20%) chance of having high extinction risk in the next few decades (equivalent to the IUCN categories of vulnerable, endangered or critically endangered). Areas with more at‐risk species to climate change are in tropical and subtropical oceans, while those that are at risk to fishing are distributed more broadly, with higher concentration of at‐risk species in North Atlantic and South Pacific Ocean. The number of species with high extinction risk would decrease by 63% under the sustainable fisheries‐low emission scenario relative to the “business‐as‐usual” scenario. This study highlights the substantial opportunities for climate‐risk reduction through effective fisheries management.
Global environmental drivers of marine fish egg size
Authors: Barneche Diego R. , Burgess Scott C. , Marshall Dustin J.
Published: August 2018

Aim

To test long‐standing theory on the role of environmental conditions (both mean and predictability) in shaping global patterns in the egg sizes of marine fishes.

Location

Global (50° S to 50° N).

Time period

1880 to 2015.

Major taxa studied

Marine fish.

Methods

We compiled the largest geo‐located dataset of marine fish egg size (diameter) to date (n = 1,078 observations; 192 studies; 288 species; 242 localities). We decomposed sea surface temperature (SST) and chlorophyll‐a time series into mean and predictability (seasonality and colour of environmental noise – i.e. how predictable the environment is between consecutive time steps), and used these as predictors of egg size in a Bayesian phylogenetic hierarchical model. We test four specific hypotheses based on the classic discussion by Rass (), as well as contemporary life‐history theory, and the conceptual model of Winemiller and Rose ().

Results

Both environmental mean and predictability correlated with egg size. Our parsimonious model indicated that egg size decreases by c. 2.0‐fold moving from 1 to 30 °C. Environments that were more seasonal with respect to temperature were associated with larger eggs. Increasing mean chlorophyll‐a, from 0.1 to 1 mg/m3, was associated with a c. 1.3‐fold decrease in egg size. Lower chlorophyll‐a seasonality and reddened noise were also associated with larger egg sizes – aseasonal but more temporally autocorrelated resource regimes favoured larger eggs.

Main conclusions

Our findings support results from Rass () and some predictions from Winemiller and Rose (). The effects of environmental means and predictability on marine fish egg size are largely consistent with those observed in marine invertebrates with feeding larvae, suggesting that there are important commonalities in how ectotherm egg size responds to environmental change. Our results further suggest that anthropogenically mediated changes in the environment will have profound effects on the distribution of marine life histories.
Using tree species inventories to map biomes and assess their climatic overlaps in lowland tropical South America
Authors: Silva de Miranda Pedro Luiz , Oliveira‐Filho Ary T. , Pennington R. Toby , Neves Danilo M. , Baker Timothy R. , Dexter Kyle G.
Published: August 2018

Aim

To define and map the main biomes of lowland tropical South America (LTSA) using data from tree species inventories and to test the ability of climatic and edaphic variables to distinguish amongst them.

Location

Lowland Tropical South America (LTSA), including Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru and Uruguay.

Time period

Present.

Major taxa studied

Trees.

Methods

We compiled a database of 4,103 geo‐referenced tree species inventories distributed across LTSA. We used a priori vegetation classifications and cluster analyses of floristic composition to assign sites to biomes. We mapped these biomes geographically and assessed climatic overlaps amongst them. We implemented classification tree approaches to quantify how well climatic and edaphic data can assign inventories to biomes.

Results

Our analyses distinguish savanna and seasonally dry tropical forest (SDTF) as distinct biomes, with the Chaco woodlands potentially representing a third dry biome in LTSA. Amongst the wet forests, we find that the Amazon and Atlantic Forests might represent different biomes, because they are distinct in both climate and species composition. Our results show substantial environmental overlap amongst biomes, with error rates for classifying sites into biomes of 19–21 and 16–18% using only climatic data and with the inclusion of edaphic data, respectively.

Main conclusions

Tree species composition can be used to determine biome identity at continental scales. We find high biome heterogeneity at small spatial scales, probably attributable to variation in edaphic conditions and disturbance history. This points to the challenges of using climatic and/or interpolation‐based edaphic data or coarse‐resolution, remotely sensed imagery to map tropical biomes. From this perspective, we suggest that using floristic information in biome delimitation will allow for greater synergy between conservation efforts centred on species diversity and management efforts centred on ecosystem function.
Global patterns of Rhododendron diversity: The role of evolutionary time and diversification rates
Authors: Shrestha Nawal , Wang Zhiheng , Su Xiangyan , Xu Xiaoting , Lyu Lisha , Liu Yunpeng , Dimitrov Dimitar , Kennedy Jonathan D. , Wang Qinggang , Tang Zhiyao , Feng Xiaojuan
Published: August 2018

Aim

Understanding the evolution of the latitudinal diversity gradient (i.e. increase in species diversity towards the tropics) is a prominent issue in ecology and biogeography. Disentangling the relative contributions of environment and evolutionary history in shaping this gradient remains a major challenge because their relative importance has been found to vary across regions and taxa. Here, using the global distributions and a molecular phylogeny of Rhododendron, one of the largest genera of flowering plants, we aim to compare the relative contributions of contemporary environment, evolutionary time and diversification rates in generating extant species diversity patterns.

Location

Global.

Time period

Undefined.

Major taxa studied

Rhododendron.

Methods

We compiled the global distributions of all Rhododendron species, and constructed a dated molecular phylogeny using nine chloroplast genes and seven nuclear regions. By integrating these two datasets, we estimated the temporal trends of Rhododendron diversification, and explored the global patterns of its species diversity, net diversification rates, and species ages. Next, we reconstructed the geographical ancestral area of the clade. Finally, we compared the relative contribution of contemporary environment, time‐for‐speciation, and diversification rates on the species diversity pattern of Rhododendron.

Results

In contrast to the predictions of the time‐for‐speciation hypothesis, we found that although Rhododendron originated at a temperate latitude, its contemporary species diversity is highest in the tropics/subtropics, suggesting an into‐the‐tropics colonization for this genus. We found that the elevated diversification induced by heterogeneous environmental conditions in the tropics/subtropics shapes the global pattern of Rhododendron diversity.

Main conclusions

Our findings support tropical and subtropical mountains as not only biodiversity and endemism hotspots, but also as cradles for the diversification of Rhododendron. Our study emphasizes the need of unifying ecological and evolutionary approaches in order to gain comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms underlying the global patterns of plant diversity.
Sensitivity of mangrove range limits to climate variability
Authors: Cavanaugh Kyle C. , Osland Michael J. , Bardou Rémi , Hinojosa‐Arango Gustavo , López‐Vivas Juan M. , Parker John D. , Rovai André S.
Published: August 2018

Aim

Correlative distribution models have been used to identify potential climatic controls of mangrove range limits, but there is still uncertainty about the relative importance of these factors across different regions. To provide insights into the strength of climatic control of different mangrove range limits, we tested whether temporal variability in mangrove abundance increases near range limits and whether this variability is correlated with climatic factors thought to control large‐scale mangrove distributions.

Location

North and South America.

Time period

1984–2011.

Major taxa studied

Avicennia germinans, Avicennia schuaeriana, Rhizophora mangle, Laguncularia racemosa.

Methods

We characterized temporal variability in the enhanced vegetation index (EVI) at mangrove range limits using Landsat satellite imagery collected between 1984–2011. We characterized greening trends at each range limit, examined variability in EVI along latitudinal gradients near each range limit, and assessed correlations between changes in EVI and temperature and precipitation.

Results

Spatial variability in mean EVI was generally correlated with temperature and precipitation, but the relationships were region specific. Greening trends were most pronounced at range limits in eastern North America. In these regions variability in EVI increased toward the range limit and was sensitive to climatic factors. In contrast, EVI at range limits on the Pacific coast of North America and both coasts of South America was relatively stable and less sensitive to climatic variability.

Main conclusions

Our results suggest that range limits in eastern North America are strongly controlled by climate factors. Mangrove expansion in response to future warming is expected to be rapid in regions that are highly sensitive to climate variability (e.g. eastern North America), but the response in other range limits (e.g. South America) is likely to be more complex and modulated by additional factors such as dispersal limitation, habitat constraints, and/or changing climatic means rather than just extremes.
Microglia extensively survey the developing cortex via the CXCL12/CXCR4 system to help neural progenitors to acquire differentiated properties
Authors: Hattori Yuki , Miyata Takaki
Published: August 2018

Neocortical development proceeds through the formation of new zones in which neural‐lineage cells are organized based on their differentiation status. Although microglia initially distribute homogeneously throughout the growing cerebral wall, they accumulate in the inner cytogenic zone, the ventricular zone (VZ) and the subventricular zone (SVZ) in the mid‐embryonic stage. However, the roles of these cells remain to be elucidated. In this study, we found that microglia, despite being only a minor population of the cells that constitute the cerebral wall, promote the differentiation of neural progenitor cells by frequently moving throughout the cortex; their migration is mediated by the CXCL12/CXCR4 system. Pulse‐chase experiments confirmed that microglia help Pax6+ stem‐like cells to differentiate into Tbr2+ intermediate progenitors. Further, monitoring of microglia by live imaging showed that administration of AMD3100, an antagonist of CXCR4, dampened microglial movement and decreased microglial surveillance throughout the cortex. In particular, arrest of microglial motion led to a prominent decrease in the abundance of Tbr2+ cells in the SVZ. Based on our findings, we propose that extensive surveillance by microglia contributes to the efficient functioning of these cells, thereby regulating the differentiation of neural stem‐like cells.
Histological features and prognostic significance of treatment effect in lymph node metastasis in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Scherpelz Kathryn P , Wong Anthony C , Lingen Mark W , Taxy Jerome B , Cipriani Nicole A
Published: August 2018

Aims and objectives

Cervical lymph node metastasis in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is common. Pre‐operative chemoradiotherapy (preCRT) and postoperative chemoradiotherapy (postCRT) is frequently employed in such patients. The prognostic value of viable SCC, treatment effect or no SCC in resected lymph nodes in patients who received or did not receive preCRT and postCRT was investigated.

Methods and results

Resected cervical lymph nodes from 146 patients with HNSCC were evaluated for viable SCC, treatment effect or no SCC. Immunostains for Ki67, cyclin D1, caspase 3 and H2AFX were performed on viable SCC or nucleate keratin debris. Clinical and histological data were correlated with tumour recurrence or persistence. Patients with nucleate keratin debris in lymph nodes had outcomes similar to those with diffuse treatment effect and no SCC. Viable tumour in lymph nodes was associated with worse prognosis in patients who received preCRT (P = 0.01). This relative worsening of prognosis was not observed in patients with oropharyngeal SCC or recurrent disease. Lower proliferation index in lymph node SCC was associated with preCRT and with worse outcomes (P = 0.0002). Overall, patients who received preCRT or postCRT had outcomes not significantly different from those who did not.

Conclusion

The presence of viable SCC in cervical lymph nodes has prognostic import when taken in context with the patient's history. Viable SCC in lymph nodes was significantly associated with worse outcome among patients with non‐oropharyngeal SCC who received preCRT. Nucleate keratin debris should not be considered viable SCC in lymph nodes.
Move inside the “Bell Jar”: A Property Rights Approach to the Skills of Migrants
Authors: Schlegel Stefan
Published: August 2018

This article develops the idea that control over somebody's migration can be understood as a property right. In the context of migration and development, this means (1) that skills of migrants can be explained as a function of access to property rights; and (2) that the possibilities of investing in these skills could be improved by giving migrants access to property rights over their own migration. Compared with efforts to formalize property rights within developing economies, access to the property right over migration has the important advantage that its value does not depend on the (often dysfunctional) institutions of the country of origin.
Global equity investing: An efficient frontier approach
Authors: Abuaf Niso , Ayala Tracyann , Sinclair Duncan
Published: August 2018

The goal of this paper is to test empirically whether emerging‐market portfolios appear on the mean‐variance efficient frontier, investigate whether particular markets provide better diversification benefits, and to ascertain if these relationships are time‐invariant. Countries that are more economically independent from the United States (as measured by relatively low correlations of their stock markets to the United States, or intuitively as being markets whose real and monetary shocks are seemingly independent of the United States) provide better diversification for US investors. Though these relationships are time‐dependent, Mexico and China appear to be the most important diversifiers. We also compare the results of a mean‐variance framework versus a mean‐VaR (value‐at‐risk) framework that may be more applicable when return distributions are non‐normal, for the period May 1988–2018, and find that there are no significant differences.
Family‐focused recovery: Perspectives from individuals with a mental illness
Authors: Waller Susan , Reupert Andrea , Ward Bernadette , McCormick Francis , Kidd Susan
Published: August 2018

Family members often provide significant support and care to their relative who has a mental illness. Nonetheless, how family members might be part of an individual's mental health recovery journey is rarely considered. The aim of this study was to investigate how those with a mental illness define ‘family’ and the role of family (if any) in their recovery journey. A qualitative approach was used. Purposive sampling and snowballing were used to recruit and conduct semi‐structured interviews with 12 people who have been diagnosed with a severe mental illness. Participants defined family in various ways with some being very inclusive and others more selective. There was acknowledgement that family contributed to the individual's recovery in a myriad of ways, although the need for boundaries was stressed. While no participants suggested that their family might become active treatment facilitators, they did want clinicians to support them in talking to their family about their mental illness. A multifaceted approach is needed to promote family‐focused recovery practice. The needs of different family members and the needs of the family as a group should be considered concurrently alongside the individual's needs in their recovery plan. Individual and relational components of recovery should be embedded in policy and clinical practice.
In situ toughened two‐phase B12(C, Si, B)3–SiC ceramics fabricated via liquid silicon infiltration
Authors: Sun Mengyong , Bai Yuhang , Li Mingxing , Fan Shangwu , Cheng Laifei
Published: August 2018

In situ toughened B12(C, Si, B)3–SiC ceramics were successfully fabricated via the liquid silicon infiltration process. Two types of B12(C, Si, B)3 phases, with high and low Si contents, respectively, and plate‐like SiC particles were formed by the reaction between B4C and Si. The in situ toughening mechanism involved two effects: the multiple crack deflections caused by the increased grain boundaries, and the pullout and rupture of a significant amount of plate‐like SiC particles. Block ceramics with a high fracture toughness of 6.5 ± 0.5 MPa·m1/2 were fabricated via the in situ toughening mechanism. A strong interface bond was present between the high‐ and low‐B4C‐content layers in the laminated ceramics, which led to residual compressive stress inside the materials. As a result, the laminated structural design enhanced the fracture toughness to 7.5 ± 0.5 MPa·m1/2.
An evaluation of body condition and morphometric relationships within southern California juvenile white sharks Carcharodon carcharias
Authors: Logan Ryan K. , White Connor F. , Winkler Chuck , Jorgensen Salvador J. , O'Sullivan John B. , Lowe Christopher G. , Lyons Kady
Published: August 2018

Length, mass and girth relationships are presented for 112 juvenile white sharks (JWS) Carcharodon carcharias caught in the Southern California Bight (SCB) nursery area between June 2008 and August 2017. No difference was found between male and female JWS length–mass relationships, but data suggest that JWS in the SCB gain more mass per unit length for the juvenile size classes compared with other C. carcharias populations. Condition‐factor‐to‐liver‐mass and condition‐factor‐to‐liver‐lipid‐content relationships revealed that length and mass (i.e., condition factor) can be used as a non‐invasive proxy for body condition for juveniles of this species. The parameters estimated in this study are key information for population assessments of juvenile C. carcharias in the north‐east Pacific Ocean and will contribute to the conservation and management of this IUCN Red List Vulnerable species.
Preparation and characterization of squalene microcapsules by complex coacervation
Authors: Jin Risheng , Yin Hanling , Wang Haixiang , Zhang Dongdong , Cao Kan , Yuan Chuanxun
Published: August 2018

This study was aimed to enhance the stability of squalene by microencapsulation using gelatin (GE) and gum arabic (GA) as wall materials. The effects of the pH value, the ratio of wall materials to core materials, and the emulsification speed on the encapsulation efficiency (EE) were investigated. The optimal conditions were obtained by orthogonal experiments as follows: the pH value of 3.6, the ratio of wall materials to core materials 1:1, and the emulsification speed 10,000 rpm. Under the optimal conditions, the EE was 68.2%. The microcapsules were characterized by various physicochemical techniques, and it was confirmed that the squalene was successfully microencapsulated. The microencapsulated squalene showed lower decomposition rate, higher glass transition temperature, and lower oxidation values in comparison with unencapsulated squalene. The results revealed that the thermal and oxidation stabilities of squalene were enhanced significantly by microencapsulation.

Practical Applications

This article presents an optimized method to encapsulate squalene by complex coacervation using gelatin and gum arabic as wall materials. The stability of squalene was enhanced significantly by microencapsulation, and it provided an effective solution to reduce the loss of squalene in storage and use. Microencapsulated squalene will have more wide application in food industry, higher economic value.
Effect of FTO rs9930506 on obesity and interaction of the gene variants with dietary protein and vitamin E on C‐reactive protein levels in multi‐ethnic Malaysian adults
Authors: Mitra S. R. , Tan P. Y. , Amini F.
Published: August 2018

Background

Individual variations of obesity‐related traits can be a consequence of dietary influence on gene variants.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study aimed to evaluate (i) the effect of FTO rs9930506 on obesity and related parameters and (ii) the influence of diet on the above association in Malaysian adults. In total, 79 obese and 99 nonobese Malaysian adults were recruited.

Results

In comparison with Chinese and Malays, Indians had significantly higher waist circumference (P ≤ 0.001 and P = 0.016), waist–hip ratio (P = 0.001 and P < 0.001), body fat percentage (P = 0.001 and P = 0.042), fasting insulin (P = 0.001 and P = 0.001), homeostatic model assessment‐insulin resistance (P = 0.001 and P = 0.001) and lower high‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol levels (P < 0.001 and P < 0.001), respectively. Indians consumed significantly lower dietary cholesterol (P = 0.002), percentage energy from protein (P < 0.001) and higher fibre (P = 0.006) compared to the other two groups. Malaysian Indians expressed the highest risk allele frequency (G) of FTO rs9930506 compared to the Malays and the Chinese (P < 0.001).

No significant association was found between FTO rs9930506 and obesity (dominant model). Risk allele carriers (G) consumed significantly lower vitamin E (P = 0.020) and had a higher fibre intake (P = 0.034) compared to the noncarriers (A). Gene–diet interaction analysis revealed that risk allele carriers (G) had lower high sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hsCRP) levels with higher energy from protein (≥14% day−1; P = 0.049) and higher vitamin E (≥5.4 mg day−1; P = 0.038).

Conclusions

The presence of the risk allele (G) of FTO rs9930506 was not associated with an increased risk of obesity. Malaysian Indians had a significantly higher frequency of the risk allele (G). Indian participants expressed higher atherogenic phenotypes compared to Chinese and Malays. FTO rs9930506 may interact with dietary protein and vitamin E and modulate hsCRP levels.
Influence of the position of the antrostomy in sinus floor elevation assessed with cone‐beam computed tomography: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Kawakami Shunsuke , Lang Niklaus P. , Iida Takahisa , Ferri Mauro , Apaza Alccayhuaman Karol A. , Botticelli Daniele
Published: August 2018

Aim

The aim of the present study was to evaluate dimensional variations of augmented sinus volumes after sinus floor elevation using a lateral approach placing the antrostomy close to the sinus floor or more cranially to it.

Methods

Twenty‐four healthy volunteers in need of sinus floor elevation were included in the study. The lateral approach was adopted placing the antrostomy randomly either close to the level of the sinus floor (group A) or approximately 3‐4 mm cranially (group B). Cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) was done before surgery (T0) and after 1 week (T1) and 9 months (T2), and analyses on dimensional variations were performed.

Results

CBCT of 10 patients per group were analyzed. At T1, the sinus floor was found to be elevated by 9.8 ± 2.1 mm in group A and 10.9 ± 1.9 mm in group B. At T2, shrinkage of 2.0 ± 1.7 mm in group A and 1.4 ± 2.5 mm in group B was observed. The area was reduced approximately 18‐24% between T1 and T2. The sinus mucosa width increased by 4.3‐5 mm between T0 and T1, and regained the original dimensions at T2.

Conclusions

The more cranial the antrostomy, the greater the augmentation height after 9 months.
Tinea corporis by Microsporum audouinii in a female chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) from Guinea‐Bissau: A case report
Authors: Melo Pedro , Lança Anabela , Mané Braima Amadeu , Regalla Aissa , Ferreira da Silva Maria Joana , Tavares Luis , Bernardo Fernando , Oliveira Manuela
Published: August 2018

We report a Microsporum audouinii infection in a female juvenile chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) presenting generalized dermatitis compatible with dermatophytosis. Dermatophyte was identified by macro‐ and microscopic characterization of skin and scales cultures in Mycosel Agar. The topical treatment applied was effective, having the potential for dermatophytosis treatment in immunocompetent primates.
Markedly higher sFlt‐1/PlGF ratio in a woman with acute fatty liver of pregnancy compared with HELLP syndrome
Authors: Suzuki Hirotada , Nagayama Shiho , Hirashima Chikako , Takahashi Kayo , Takahashi Hironori , Ogoyama Manabu , Nagayama Manabu , Shirasuna Koumei , Matsubara Shigeki , Ohkuchi Akihide
Published: August 2018

Aim

To compare serum levels of angiogenesis‐related factors between 14 women with HELLP (hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelet count) syndrome and a woman with acute fatty liver of pregnancy (AFLP).

Methods

Serum samples were collected in 2004–2008 and 2013–2016. The levels of soluble fms‐like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFlt‐1) and placental growth factor (PlGF) were measured by an automated electrochemiluminescence immunoassay using Elecsys sFlt‐1 and Elecsys PlGF. After logarithmic transformation, levels of sFlt‐1, PlGF and the sFlt‐1/PlGF ratio in a woman with AFLP were compared with those in women with HELLP syndrome, using the one‐sample t‐test.

Results

At 37 weeks of gestation, a patient was diagnosed with AFLP based on Swansea criteria (showing six features including elevated transaminases), and she also showed a duodenal ulcer with active bleeding, thrombocytopenia and hypertension. Her serum levels of sFlt‐1 and sFlt‐1/PlGF ratio were significantly higher than in those with HELLP syndrome (273 040 pg/mL vs 15 135 [mean], P < 0.001; 4236 vs 224, P < 0.001; respectively). However, her serum level of PlGF was not significantly different from those with HELLP syndrome.

Conclusion

Serum levels of sFlt‐1 and the sFlt‐1/PlGF ratio, but not PlGF, in a woman with AFLP were markedly higher than those in women with HELLP syndrome. AFLP may be a different clinical entity from HELLP syndrome based on angiogenesis‐related factors. Clinically, the sFlt‐1/PlGF ratio may be used to rapidly distinguish AFLP from HELLP syndrome.
Outcomes of ‘unrecognised situation awareness failures events’ in intensive care unit transfer of children in a Japanese children's hospital
Authors: Aoki Yoshihiro , Inata Yu , Hatachi Takeshi , Shimizu Yoshiyuki , Takeuchi Muneyuki
Published: August 2018

Aim

To demonstrate that unrecognised situation awareness failures events (UNSAFE) transfers are associated with poorer outcomes in the intensive care unit (ICU) at a Japanese children's hospital lacking a rapid response system.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study was conducted between January 2013 and February 2016. UNSAFE transfers were defined as unplanned in‐hospital ward‐to‐ICU transfers requiring tracheal intubation, vasoactive medications or ≥3 fluid boluses before arrival or in the first 60 min of ICU care. We compared ICU stay duration and mortality between UNSAFE and non‐UNSAFE transfers.

Results

There were 2126 admissions to the paediatric ICU during the study period, and 244 cases met the definition of an unscheduled in‐hospital transfer (11.5%). Of these, the number of patients transferred following cardiopulmonary resuscitation, in the UNSAFE group and in the non‐UNSAFE group were 9 (3.7%), 68 (28%) and 167 (68%), respectively. In the UNSAFE group, the number of patients who required tracheal intubation, initiation of vasoactive medications or ≥ 3 fluid boluses in the first 60 min of ICU care or before arrival in the ICU was 61 (90%), 38 (56%) and 9 (13%), respectively. ICU stay duration and mortality were significantly poorer in the UNSAFE group than in the non‐UNSAFE group (9 vs. 4 days, P < 0.0001; 13 vs. 4.2%, odds ratio = 3.5, 95% confidence interval = 1.2–9.8, P = 0.020, respectively).

Conclusions

Patients who experienced UNSAFE transfers had longer ICU stays and higher mortality, and it may be used as a metric of evaluation of effects of rapid response system implementation.