bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trap nests for bees and wasps to analyse trophic interactions in changing environments—A systematic overview and user guide
Authors: Staab Michael , Pufal Gesine , Tscharntke Teja , Klein Alexandra‐Maria
Published: July 2018

Trap nests are artificially made nesting resources for solitary cavity‐nesting bees and wasps and allow easy quantification of multiple trophic interactions between bees, wasps, their food objects and natural enemies.

We synthesized all trap nest studies available in the ISI Web of Science™ to provide a comprehensive overview of trap nest research and identify common practical challenges and promising future research directions.

Trap nests have been used on all continents and across climate zones and publication numbers have increased exponentially since the first studies in the 1950s. Originally used for detailed exploratory natural history observations, trap nests are now also an established method in hypothesis‐driven ecology and to assess environmental changes. We identify the potential of trap nests for environmental monitoring by assessing trophic interaction networks of the groups involved. While pollen collection by bees or prey hunting by wasps has often been addressed, and interactions with natural enemies were included in almost half of all publications, surprisingly few studies have quantified trophic interaction networks in response to natural and anthropogenic environmental changes.

By simultaneously revealing a multitude of trophic interactions, trap nests have the potential to broaden our understanding how species interaction networks are influenced by manifold environmental changes, which are pressing topics in ecological research. To foster the use of trap nests in future studies, we identify common challenges and offer guidance on practical solutions.
Comparison of analgesic efficacy between two approaches of paravertebral block for thoracotomy: A randomised trial
Authors: Taketa Yasuko , Irisawa Yumi , Fujitani Taro
Published: July 2018

Background

Although several approaches for ultrasound‐guided thoracic paravertebral block have been introduced, little is known regarding the differences in analgesic efficacy. We conducted this prospective randomised trial to examine whether the type of approach for ultrasound‐guided thoracic paravertebral block could affect analgesic quality in thoracotomy.

Methods

Patients scheduled for video‐assisted thoracotomy were randomly allocated into two groups by block technique: the intercostal approach (group IC) or the paralaminar approach (group PL). At the start and end of surgery, 20 mL of 0.5% ropivacaine was injected, followed by a continuous infusion of 0.2% ropivacaine at 5 mL h−1. We also started intravenous fentanyl patient‐controlled analgesia at 0.5 μg kg−1 h−1 and bolus dose of 15 μg. The main outcome was the number of rescue fentanyl use. We also evaluated postoperative pain scores and number of blocked dermatomes showing a reduced sensation.

Results

Enrolment was ceased because of implementation of a minimally invasive surgical method. Overall, 42 subjects completed the trial for analysis. The number of rescue fentanyl use in group PL was significantly less than that in group IC at 3, 6, 12 and 24 hour postoperatively. The numerical rating scale (NRS) at rest in group PL was significantly lower at 1, 3, 6, and 12 hour postoperatively. Patients in Group PL developed significantly wider sensory block level (median (IQR [range]); 4 (4‐5 [2‐7])) than those in Group IC (3 (3‐3 [2‐9])).

Conclusions

We suggested that paralaminar approach provided superior analgesia for thoracotomy rather than the intercostal approach.
Pharmacological Inhibition of Soluble Epoxide Hydrolase Ameliorates Chronic Ethanol‐Induced Cardiac Fibrosis by Restoring Autophagic Flux
Authors: Zhou Chi , Huang Jin , Li Qing , Zhan Chenao , He Ying , Liu Jinyan , Wen Zheng , Wang Dao Wen
Published: July 2018

Background

Chronic drinking leads to myocardial contractile dysfunction and dilated cardiomyopathy, and cardiac fibrosis is a consequence of these alcoholic injuries. Soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH) hydrolyzes epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs) to less bioactive diols, and EETs have cardioprotective properties. However, the effects of sEH inhibition in ethanol (EtOH)‐induced cardiac fibrosis are unknown.

Methods

This study was designed to investigate the role and underlying mechanisms of sEH inhibition in chronic EtOH feeding‐induced cardiac fibrosis. C57BL/6J mice were fed a 4% Lieber‐DeCarli EtOH diet for 8 weeks, and the sEH inhibitor 1‐trifluoromethoxyphenyl‐3‐(1‐propionylpiperidin‐4‐yl) urea (TPPU) was administered throughout the experimental period.

Results

The results showed that chronic EtOH intake led to cardiac dilatation, collagen deposition, and autophagosome accumulation, while TPPU administration ameliorated these effects. In vitro, treating primary cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) with EtOH resulted in CF activation, including alpha smooth muscle actin overexpression, collagen synthesis, and cell migration. Moreover, EtOH disturbed CF autophagic flux, as evidenced by the increased LC3 II/I ratio and SQSTM1 expression, and by the enhanced autophagosome accumulation. TPPU treatment prevented the activation of CF induced by EtOH and restored the impaired autophagic flux by suppressing mTOR activation.

Conclusions

Taken together, these findings suggest that sEH pharmacological inhibition may be a unique therapeutic strategy for treating EtOH‐induced cardiac fibrosis.
‘Watch and wait’ after chemoradiotherapy for rectal cancer
Authors: Mullaney Tamara G. , Lightner Amy L. , Johnston Michael , Keck James , Wattchow David
Published: July 2018

Surgery remains the cornerstone of rectal cancer treatment. However, there is significant morbidity and mortality associated with pelvic surgery, and the past decade has illustrated that a cohort of rectal cancer patients sustain a remission of local disease with chemoradiation alone. Thus, questions remain regarding the optimal management for rectal cancer; namely, accurately identifying patients who have a complete pathologic response and determining the oncologic safety of the observational approach for this patient group. This review aims to summarize the current evidence to provide an overview to the ‘watch and wait’ approach in rectal cancer patients with a complete response to neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy.
Patterns of care and outcomes for men diagnosed with prostate cancer in Victoria: an update
Authors: Wang Luke L. , Begashaw Kirobel , Evans Melanie , Earnest Arul , Evans Sue M. , Millar Jeremy L. , Murphy Declan G. , Moon Daniel
Published: July 2018

Background

To update patterns of care for men diagnosed with prostate cancer in Victoria, Australia between 2008 and 2015.

Methods

From August 2008 to December 2015, 14 025 men diagnosed with prostate cancer were included. These data were obtained from the Prostate Cancer Outcome Registry – Victoria (PCOR‐Vic). Frequencies were used to describe hospital and patient characteristics and treatment types. Comparisons were made between previous period of analysis (2008–2011) to the most recent period (2011–2015). Survival analysis using a stepwise Cox proportional hazards regression model was performed.

Results

Mean age of diagnosis was 66.5 years and 44% of patients were diagnosed with Gleason 7 prostate cancer. Majority of notifications (63.6%) were received from a private institution and 70.2% of patients were diagnosed at a metropolitan institution. Most patients (95.3%) were diagnosed with clinically localized disease. Within 12 months of diagnosis, 55.9% of patients with low‐risk disease received no active treatment. Radical prostatectomy was the most common primary treatment with curative intent (47%). When comparing of patterns of care between 2008–2011 and 2011–2015, the proportion of patients diagnosed with Gleason 9–10 disease increased, as has the proportion of patients diagnosed with metastatic disease.

Conclusion

With the PCOR‐Vic, we were able to identify that increasing number of patients were diagnosed with high‐risk and metastatic disease. There has been an overall decrease in radical treatment rates, likely due to active surveillance playing a significant role especially in patients with low‐risk prostate cancer.
The association between the NAT2 genetic polymorphisms and risk of DILI during anti‐TB treatment: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhang Min , Wang Shuqiang , Wilffert Bob , Tong Rongsheng , van Soolingen Dick , van den Hof Susan , Alffenaar Jan‐Willem
Published: July 2018

Aims

The aim of this study is to evaluate the potential association between N‐acetyltransferase type 2 (NAT2) polymorphisms and drug‐induced liver injury during anti‐TB treatment (AT‐DILI).

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and performed a meta‐analysis to clarify the role of NAT2 polymorphism in AT‐DILI. PubMed, Medline and EMBASE databases were searched for studies published in English to December 31, 2017, on the association between the NAT2 polymorphism and AT‐DILI risk. Outcomes were pooled with random‐effects meta‐analysis. Details were registered in the PROSPERO register (number: CRD42016051722).

Results

Thirty‐seven studies involving 1527 cases and 7184 controls were included in this meta‐analysis. The overall odds ratio (OR) of AT‐DILI associated with NAT2 slow acetylator phenotype was 3.15 (95% CI 2.58–3.84, I2 = 51.3%, P = 0.000). The OR varied between different ethnic populations, ranging from 6.42 (95% CI 2.41–17.10, I2 = 2.3%) for the West Asian population to 2.32 (95% CI 0.58–9.24, I2 = 80.3%) for the European population. Within the slow NAT2 genotype, variation was also observed; NAT2*6/*7 was associated with the highest risk of AT‐DILI (OR = 1.68, 95% CI 1.09–2.59) compared to the other slow NAT2 acetylators combined.

Conclusions

NAT2 slow acetylation was observed to increase the risk of AT‐DILI in tuberculosis patients. Our results support the hypothesis that the slow NAT2 genotype is a risk factor for AT‐DILI.
Positioning uterus transplantation as a ‘more ethical’ alternative to surrogacy: Exploring symmetries between uterus transplantation and surrogacy through analysis of a Swedish government white paper
Authors: Guntram Lisa , Williams Nicola Jane
Published: July 2018

Within the ethics and science literature surrounding uterus transplantation (UTx), emphasis is often placed on the extent to which UTx might improve upon, or offer additional benefits when compared to, existing ‘treatment options’ for women with absolute uterine factor infertility, such as adoption and gestational surrogacy. Within this literature UTx is often positioned as superior to surrogacy because it can deliver things that surrogacy cannot (such as the experience of gestation). Yet, in addition to claims that UTx is superior in the aforementioned sense it is also often assumed (either implicitly or explicitly) that UTx is less fraught with ethical difficulties and thus should be considered a less morally problematic option. This article seeks to examine this assumption. Given that much UTx research has been performed in Sweden, a country where surrogacy is effectively although not currently explicitly forbidden, we do this through an analysis of the arguments underpinning a 2016 Swedish white paper which considered amending existing policy such that altruistic surrogacy arrangements would be permitted. By applying the white paper’s arguments for a restrictive position on altruistic surrogacy to the case of UTx using living altruistic donors we find that such arguments, if they hold in the case of surrogacy, apply similarly to UTx. We thus suggest that, for reasons of consistency, a similar stance should be taken towards the moral and legal permissibility of these two practices.
Controllable Image‐Based Transfer of Flow Phenomena
Authors: Bosch Carles , Patow Gustavo
Published: July 2018

Modelling flow phenomena and their related weathering effects is often cumbersome due their dependence on the environment, materials and geometric properties of objects in the scene. Example‐based modelling provides many advantages for reproducing real textures, but little effort has been devoted to reproducing and transferring complex phenomena. In order to produce realistic flow effects, it is possible to take advantage of the widespread availability of flow images on the Internet, which can be used to gather key information about the flow. In this paper, we present a technique that allows the transfer of flow phenomena between photographs, adapting the flow to the target image and giving the user flexibility and control through specifically tailored parameters. This is done through two types of control curves: a fitted theoretical curve to control the mass of deposited material, and an extended colour map for properly adapting to the target appearance. In addition, our method filters and warps the input flow in order to account for the geometric details of the target surface. This leads to a fast and intuitive approach to easily transfer phenomena between images, providing a set of simple and intuitive parameters to control the process.
Conserving the abundance of nonthreatened species
Authors: Baker David J. , Garnett Stephen T. , O'Connor James , Ehmke Glenn , Clarke Rohan H. , Woinarski John C.Z. , McGeoch Melodie A.
Published: July 2018

Human modification of the environment is driving declines in population size and distributional extent of much of the world's biota. These declines extend to many of the most abundant and widespread species, for which proportionally small declines can result in the loss of vast numbers of individuals, biomass, and interactions. These losses could have major localized effects on ecological and cultural processes and services without elevating a species’ global extinction risk. Although most conservation effort is directed at species threatened with extinction in the very near term, the value of retaining abundance regardless of global extinction risk is justifiable based on many biodiversity or ecosystem service metrics, including cultural services, at scales from local to global. The challenges of identifying conservation priorities for widespread and abundant species include quantifying the effects of species’ abundance on services and understanding how these effects are realized as populations decline. Negative effects of population declines may be disconnected from the threat processes driving declines because of species movements and environment flows (e.g., hydrology). Conservation prioritization for these species shares greater similarity with invasive species risk assessments than extinction risk assessments because of the importance of local context and per capita effects of abundance on other species. Because conservation priorities usually focus on preventing the extinction of threatened species, the rationale and objectives for incorporating declines of nonthreatened species must be clearly articulated, going beyond extinction risk to encompass the range of likely harmful effects (e.g., secondary extinctions, loss of ecosystem services) if declines persist or are not reversed. Research should focus on characterizing the effects of local declines in species that are not threatened globally across a range of ecosystem services and quantifying the spatial distribution of these effects through the distribution of abundance. The case for conserving abundance in nonthreatened species can be made most powerfully when the costs of losing this abundance are better understood.
Cardiopulmonary, biomarkers, and vascular responses to acute hypoxia following cardiac transplantation
Authors: Sanz‐de la Garza Maria , Iannino Nadia , Finnerty Vincent , Mansour Asmaa , Blondeau Lucie , Gayda Mathieu , Chaar Diana , Sirois Martin G. , Racine Normand , de Denus Simon , Harel François , White Michel
Published: July 2018

Previous studies have suggested good adaptation of cardiac transplant (CTx) recipients to exposure to a high altitude. No studies have investigated the cardiopulmonary and biomarker responses to acute hypoxic challenges following CTx. Thirty‐six CTx recipients and 17 age‐matched healthy controls (HC) were recruited. Sixteen (16) patients (42%) had cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV). Cardiopulmonary responses to maximal and submaximal exercise at 21% O2, 20‐minutes hypoxia (11.5% O2), and following a 10‐minute exposure to 11.5% O2 using 30% of peak power output were completed. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), suppression of tumorigenicity 2 (ST2) were measured at baseline and at peak stress. Endothelial peripheral function was assessed using near‐infrared spectroscopy. Compared with HC, CTx presented a lesser O2 desaturation both at rest (−19.4 ± 6.8 [CTx] vs −24.2 ± 6.0% O2 [HC], P < 0.05) and following exercise (−23.2 ± 4.9 [CTx] vs −26.2 ± 4.7% O2 [HC], P < 0.05). CTx patients exhibited a significant decrease in peak oxygen uptake. IL‐6 and VEGF levels were significantly higher in CTx recipients in basal conditions but did not change in response to acute stress. CTx patients exhibit a favorable ventilatory and overall response to hypoxic stress. These data provide further insights on the good adaptability of CTx to exposure to high altitude.
Design and Conduct Considerations for First‐in‐Human Trials
Authors: Shen Jie , Swift Brandon , Mamelok Richard , Pine Samuel , Sinclair John , Attar Mayssa
Published: July 2018

A milestone step in translational science to transform basic scientific discoveries into therapeutic applications is the advancement of a drug candidate from preclinical studies to initial human testing. First‐in‐human (FIH) trials serve as the link to advance new promising drug candidates and are conducted primarily to determine the safe dose range for further clinical development. Cross‐functional collaboration is essential to ensure efficient and successful FIH trials. The aim of this publication is to serve as a tutorial for conducting FIH trials for both small molecule and biological drug candidates with topics covering regulatory requirements, preclinical safety testing, study design considerations, safety monitoring, biomarker assessment, and global considerations. An emphasis is placed on FIH trial design considerations, including starting dose selection, study size and population, dose escalation scheme, and implementation of adaptive designs. In light of the recent revision of the European Medicines Agency (EMA) guideline on FIH trials to promote safety and mitigate risk, we also discuss new measures introduced in the guideline that impact FIH trial design.
Using habitat models for chinstrap penguins Pygoscelis antarctica to advise krill fisheries management during the penguin breeding season
Authors: Warwick‐Evans Victoria , Ratcliffe Norman , Lowther Andrew D. , Manco Fabrizio , Ireland Louise , Clewlow Harriet L. , Trathan Philip N.
Published: July 2018

Aim

To predict the at‐sea distribution of chinstrap penguins across the South Orkney Islands and to quantify the overlap with the Southern Ocean krill fishery.

Location

South Orkney Islands, Antarctica.

Methods

Penguins from four colonies across the South Orkney Islands were tracked using global positioning systems (GPSs) and time depth recorders (TDRs). Relationships between a variety of environmental and geometric variables and the at‐sea distribution of penguins were investigated using general additive models for the three main phases of the breeding season. Subsequently, the final models were extrapolated across the South Orkney archipelago to predict the at‐sea distribution of penguins from colonies where no tracking data are available. Finally, the overlap between areas used by chinstrap penguins and the krill fishery was quantified.

Results

The foraging distribution of chinstrap penguins can be predicted using two simple and static variables: the distance from the colony and the direction of travel towards the shelf‐edge, while avoiding high densities of Pygoscelis penguins from other colonies. Additionally, we find that the chinstrap penguins breeding on the South Orkney Islands use areas which overlap with frequently used krill fishing areas and that this overlap is most prominent during the brood and crèche phases of the breeding season.

Main conclusions

This is the first step in understanding the potential impacts of the krill fishery, for all colonies including those where no empirical tracking data are available. However, with the available data, it is not currently possible to infer an impact of the krill fisheries on penguins. With this in mind, we recommend the implementation of monitoring schemes to investigate the effects of prey depletion on predator populations and to ensure that management continues to follow a precautionary approach and is addressed at spatial and temporal scales relevant to ecosystem operation.
Impact on HbA1c and body weight of switching from other GLP‐1 receptor agonists to semaglutide: A model‐based approach
Authors: Overgaard Rune V. , Lindberg Søren Ø. , Thielke Desirée
Published: July 2018

Aims

Semaglutide is a glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) analogue approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. The impact of switching treatment from another GLP‐1 receptor agonist (GLP‐1RA) to semaglutide was investigated by analyses of exposure‐response models.

Methods

HbA1c and body weight time‐course models were developed, using up to 30 weeks of observations from four trials in the semaglutide phase 3 programme. Given the recommended dosing for each GLP‐1RA, pharmacokinetic profiles were simulated based on published population pharmacokinetic models and exposure was adjusted by the relative potencies to ensure that model predictions matched the effects observed in clinical trials. After 26 weeks of simulated treatment with liraglutide, dulaglutide or exenatide extended‐release, simulated semaglutide treatment was initiated 1 day after the last once‐daily dose of liraglutide and 1 week after the last once‐weekly doses of dulaglutide or exenatide extended‐release.

Results

The potency‐adjusted total effective GLP‐1RA concentration increased after switching from another GLP‐1RA to semaglutide and was associated with reductions ranging from ~0.3% to ~0.8%‐points for HbA1c and from ~2% to ~4% for body weight with semaglutide 1.0 mg. Temporary slight deteriorations in HbA1c were observed after switching to semaglutide 0.25 mg from liraglutide 1.2/1.8 mg or dulaglutide 1.5 mg.

Conclusions

Exposure‐response modelling suggests that switching to semaglutide from liraglutide, dulaglutide or exenatide extended‐release results in further reductions in HbA1c and body weight. Initial slight deterioration in outcome values when switching to semaglutide 0.25 mg could be avoided by initiating semaglutide treatment at a higher dose.
Elevated GlycA in severe obesity is normalized by bariatric surgery
Authors: Manmadhan Arun , Lin Bing‐Xue , Zhong Judy , Parikh Manish , Berger Jeffrey S. , Fisher Edward A. , Heffron Sean P.
Published: July 2018

Chronic inflammation drives many obesity‐associated conditions including atherosclerosis. GlycA, a marker of systemic inflammation with lower intra‐individual variability than high sensitivity C‐reactive protein, is independently associated with incident cardiovascular events and mortality. Although GlycA is elevated in obesity, correlations with anthropometric measures are modest and the effect of body weight loss on GlycA is untested. Obese (body mass index [BMI] 44.6 ± 6.6 kg/m2), non‐diabetic women (33.7 ± 8.2 years) undergoing Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass (n = 23) or sleeve gastrectomy (n = 31) were prospectively studied at baseline, 6 and 12 months postprocedure. Women with normal BMI (n = 14) served as controls. Bariatric surgery significantly reduced GlycA by 6 months (451 ± 47 μmol/L vs. 383 ± 50 μmol/L; P < 0.001) with further reduction at 12 months (348 ± 41 μmol/L; P < 0.001) and no difference between procedures. At 12 months, despite 41% of surgical subjects maintaining BMI >30 kg/m2, GlycA levels did not differ between surgical and control subjects (P = 0.13). Increased high density lipoprotein particle size was strongly associated with reduced GlycA (r = −0.49; P < 0.001) and was found to mediate up to 43% of its body weight‐loss‐associated fall. This is the first study to demonstrate that surgical body weight loss markedly reduces levels of GlycA.
An Anatomy of Cartel Contracts
Authors: Hyytinen Ari , Steen Frode , Toivanen Otto
Published: July 2018

We study the contracts of 898 legal Finnish cartels. Cartels that exclusively allocate markets, either geographically or in the product/production space, are dominant in manufacturing. They are often bilateral and include a vertical dimension. Structural industry characteristics predict the type of a cartel, e.g., consistent with theory, quota cartels are more common in manufacturing and when buyers are primarily industrial. The contracts of quota cartels include more (governance) clauses. Pure pricing cartels are the dominant cartel type in non-manufacturing and are more common when demand is primarily from retail buyers. Pricing cartels are larger than other types of cartels.
Selective contrast‐enhanced computed tomography is appropriate in diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma therapy response assessment
Authors: Kriegsmann Katharina , Wack Maurizio , Kriegsmann Mark , Cremer Martin , Bruckner Thomas , Ho Anthony D. , Wuchter Patrick , Witzens‐Harig Mathias
Published: July 2018

Objective

Although not the gold standard, contrast‐enhanced CT of neck, thorax, and abdomen/pelvis is routinely performed in diagnosis and response assessment of DLBCL. PD during first‐line treatment is a relatively rare event. The question arises if the imaging of initially involved regions only might be sufficient for response evaluation.

Method

We retrospectively analyzed the data of 167 DLBCL patients who had an extensive contrast‐enhanced CT scan at first diagnosis. The majority of patients (n = 128, 77%) was treated with R‐CHOP. Therapy response was assessed as interim and end of treatment staging by contrast‐enhanced CT.

Results

The overall response rate at the end of treatment was 94%. None of the patients showed involvement of new sites at interim staging. As a major finding, none of the patients showed an involvement of sites, which were not initially involved. Four patients developed PD during first‐line chemotherapy/after mid‐treatment staging and 31 relapsed. A conclusive comparison between initial and PD/relapse DLBCL involvement was possible in 27 patients: 8 patients did and 19 patients did not show additional/new sites of involvement compared to first diagnosis.

Conclusion

Our retrospective analysis provides a rationale for selective imaging of initially involved DLBCL sites for therapy response assessment.
Serum level of IL‐4 predicts response to topical immunotherapy with diphenylcyclopropenone in alopecia areata
Authors: Gong Yugang , Zhao Ying , Zhang Xiaoting , Qi Shiling , Li Shuifeng , Ye Yanting , Yang Jian , Caulloo Sillani , McElwee Kevin J. , Zhang Xingqi
Published: July 2018

Background

This study investigated predictors of response to topical diphenylyclopropenone (DPCP) immunotherapy in patients with alopecia areata (AA).

Objective

To identify predictors of response, or resistance, to treatment for AA through clinical observations and serum tests.

Methods

Eighty four AA patients were treated with DPCP. Serum cytokine levels were measured in 33 AA patients pre‐ and post‐treatment, and in 18 healthy controls, using ELISA assays.

Results

Of patients, 56.1% responded to DPCP with satisfactory hair regrowth; the response rate was negatively correlated with hair loss extent. Before DPCP treatment, higher serum IFN‐γ and IL‐12 cytokine levels were observed in AA patients compared to healthy controls. Non‐responders to DPCP had significantly elevated serum IL‐4 pre‐treatment (3.07 fold higher) and lower IL‐12 levels compared with responders. After DPCP treatment, non‐responders had persistently high IL‐4, increased IL‐12, negligible decrease in IFN‐γ and decreased IL‐10. Post‐treatment DPCP responders exhibited significantly decreased IFN‐γ and IL‐12, and increased IL‐4 and IL‐10. Development of adverse side‐effects was significantly associated with higher pre‐treatment serum IgE levels.

Limitations

A small number of subjects were evaluated.

Conclusions

Potentially, elevated pre‐treatment serum levels of IL‐4 and IL‐12 can be used as unfavorable and favorable predictors of DPCP therapeutic effect, respectively. In addition, pre‐treatment elevated serum total IgE may predict increased risk for severe adverse side‐effects to DPCP application. Whether serum cytokine expression levels can be used as predictors of response to other forms of treatment is unknown, but it may warrant investigation in the development of personalized treatments for AA.
Global patterns of interannual climate–fire relationships
Authors: Abatzoglou John T. , Williams A. Park , Boschetti Luigi , Zubkova Maria , Kolden Crystal A.
Published: July 2018

Climate shapes geographic and seasonal patterns in global fire activity by mediating vegetation composition, productivity, and desiccation in conjunction with land‐use and anthropogenic factors. Yet, the degree to which climate variability affects interannual variability in burned area across Earth is less understood. Two decades of satellite‐derived burned area records across forested and nonforested areas were used to examine global interannual climate–fire relationships at ecoregion scales. Measures of fuel aridity exhibited strong positive correlations with forested burned area, with weaker relationships in climatologically drier regions. By contrast, cumulative precipitation antecedent to the fire season exhibited positive correlations to nonforested burned area, with stronger relationships in climatologically drier regions. Climate variability explained roughly one‐third of the interannual variability in burned area across global ecoregions. These results highlight the importance of climate variability in enabling fire activity globally, but also identify regions where anthropogenic and other influences may facilitate weaker relationships. Empirical fire modeling efforts can complement process‐based global fire models to elucidate how fire activity is likely to change amidst complex interactions among climatic, vegetation, and human factors.
Diverse lignocellulosic feedstocks can achieve high field‐scale ethanol yields while providing flexibility for the biorefinery and landscape‐level environmental benefits
Authors: Zhang Yaoping , Oates Lawrence G. , Serate Jose , Xie Dan , Pohlmann Edward , Bukhman Yury V. , Karlen Steven D. , Young Megan K. , Higbee Alan , Eilert Dustin , Sanford Gregg R. , Piotrowski Jeff S. , Cavalier David , Ralph John , Coon Joshua J. , Sato Trey K. , Ong Rebecca G.
Published: July 2018

Increasing the diversity of lignocellulosic feedstocks accepted by a regional biorefinery has the potential to improve the environmental footprint of the facility; harvest, storage, and transportation logistics; and biorefinery economics. However, feedstocks can vary widely in terms of their biomass yields and quality characteristics (chemical composition, moisture content, etc.). To investigate how the diversity of potential biofuel cropping systems and feedstock supply might affect process and field‐scale ethanol yields, we processed and experimentally quantified ethanol production from five different herbaceous feedstocks: two annuals (corn stover and energy sorghum) and three perennials (switchgrass, miscanthus, and mixed prairie). The feedstocks were pretreated using ammonia fiber expansion (AFEX), hydrolyzed at high solid loading (~17%–20% solids, depending on the feedstock), and fermented separately using microbes engineered to utilize xylose: yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiaeY128) or bacteria (Zymomonas mobilis8b). The field‐scale ethanol yield from each feedstock was dependent on biomass quality and cropping system productivity; however, biomass yield had a greater influence on the ethanol yield for low‐productivity crops, while biomass quality was the main driver for ethanol yields from high‐yielding crops. The process ethanol yield showed similar variability across years and feedstocks. A low process yield for corn stover was determined to result from inhibition of xylose utilization by unusually elevated levels of hydroxycinnamates (p‐coumaric and ferulic acids) in the untreated biomass and their acid and amide derivatives in the resulting hydrolyzate. This finding highlights the need to better understand factors that influence process ethanol yield and biomass quality. Ultimately we provide evidence that most feedstocks fall within a similar range of process ethanol yield, particularly for the more resistant strain Z. mobilis8b. This supports the claim that the refinery can successfully diversify its feedstock supply, enabling many social and environmental benefits that can accrue due to landscape diversification.
Working mothers, injury and embodied care work
Authors: Maher JaneMaree , Charles Nickie , Wolkowitz Carol
Published: July 2018

In this article, we examine how mothers respond when injury interrupts maternal care, using the lens of embodied care, which we conceptualize as a form of ‘body work’. We draw on findings from a qualitative research project with two organizations in Australia that help people with injuries to return to work, examining the experiences of workers who are also mothers of dependent children. Mothers' inability to care for children during periods of injury was a significant concern for our interviewees; constraints on physical labour and physical affection were particularly troubling, indicating the importance of embodied maternal caregiving to maternal roles. Yet, while these mothers inhabited the spheres of paid work and unpaid care work simultaneously, service providers did not consider embodied care work or its relevance to injured women's ongoing needs for support. While our findings reflect the experiences of injured women, they also suggest the need for a materialist analysis of the ways that both paid work and care activities are deeply enmeshed in and through the bodies of those doing the work. Employers and service organizations still fail to recognize maternal ‘body work’, and this may be typical of social attitudes more widely.
Sustained virologic response after eight weeks of treatment with sofosbuvir, ledipasvir, and ribavirin in a decompensated cirrhotic patient with hepatitis C virus genotype 1b
Authors: Taniyama Ohki , Mawatari Seiichi , Oda Kohei , Tabu Kazuaki , Ijuin Sho , Kumagai Kotaro , Kasai Ai , Tashima Shuzo , Tamai Tsutomu , Moriuchi Akihiro , Ido Akio
Published: July 2018

A 68‐year‐old Japanese man with decompensated cirrhosis due to hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 1b infection was treated with sofosbuvir (SOF; 400 mg/day), ledipasvir (LDV; 90 mg/day), and ribavirin (RBV; 400 mg/day). Before treatment, his Child–Pugh and Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease (MELD) scores were 10 (class C) and 13 points, respectively. Although RBV was initially given at two‐thirds the normal dose due to anemia, his hemoglobin level gradually declined, and RBV was reduced to 200 mg daily on day 11, and 200 mg every other day on day 14. His alanine aminotransferase level gradually decreased during combination therapy; and HCV‐RNA was undetectable on day 28. He complained of fatigue from day 49, and RBV was ceased. On day 56, he asked to discontinue treatment because of strong fatigue and insomnia. As hepatic encephalopathy occurred just after the cessation of direct‐acting antivirals, diuretics were discontinued, and treatment with synthetic disaccharides and intractable antibiotics were given, after which his consciousness returned to normal. Ascites gradually disappeared, and a sustained virologic response (SVR) was achieved. At 1.5 years after treatment, his Child–Pugh and MELD scores had improved to 6 (class A) and 10 points, respectively. Although he did not experience hepatic encephalopathy during the observation period, his blood ammonia concentration persistently increased. We reported a case of decompensated cirrhosis in a patient who achieved SVR with SOF/LDV plus RBV for 8 weeks. Although his liver function improved after treatment, careful long‐term observation is required for complications of liver cirrhosis, even after HCV elimination.
Keratin‐based particles for protection and restoration of hair properties
Authors: Tinoco A. , Gonçalves J. , Silva C. , Loureiro A. , Gomes A. C. , Cavaco‐Paulo A. , Ribeiro A.
Published: July 2018

Objective

Human hair is an element with unquestionable relevance in society both for women and men. Therefore, it is of great importance to develop new cosmetic products for hair care capable to restore and improve hair's characteristics. Here, we explore the potential of keratin‐based particles in the protection and recovery of hair mechanical properties and thermal stability.

Methods

Keratin‐based particles were obtained by high pressure homogenization (HPH) using keratin and silk fibroin. The particles were characterized regarding size, superficial charge and polydispersity index. Their safety to cells was assessed using human skin keratinocytes. Virgin and overbleached Asian hair were treated with eight keratin‐based formulations. The effect of particles on hair's mechanical properties was evaluated in terms of stiffness and tensile strength. The impact of treatments in hair thermal performance was studied using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC).

Results

Keratin‐based particles were capable to recover and/or improve the mechanical properties of virgin and overbleached hair. Virgin hair treated with K80SF20P particles presented an improvement in the mechanical properties of around 40%. An increase in keratin α‐helix denaturation enthalpy and in surface smoothness for both types of hair was also verified after treatment. These particles demonstrated stability over time and proved to be safe when tested in human keratinocytes.

Conclusion

The keratin‐based particles here presented have the potential to be incorporated in the development of new and effective hair care cosmetic formulations.
An updated review of clinical methods in the assessment of ageing skin – New perspectives and evaluation for claims support
Authors: Bielfeldt S. , Springmann G. , Seise M. , Wilhelm K.‐P. , Callaghan T.
Published: July 2018

With the advancement of skin research, today's consumer has increased access to an informed understanding of ageing skin and its appendages, together with a plethora of targeted products to meet such needs. In recent years, increased legislative demands for quality evidential claims support have led not only to the development and validation of clinical methods to measure and quantify ageing skin, but also a clearer understanding of the skin ageing process–especially the impact of both its internal and external environments–as well as a tougher stance on clearly unjustifiable claims. Traditional testing methods used to research and evaluate anti‐ageing products claim to employ sophisticated instruments. Today, however, since the term anti‐ageing can be considered a misnomer, intelligent use of combined more advanced clinical methods has enabled the development of technologically improved consumer products providing enhanced efficacy and targeted performance. Non‐invasive methods for the assessment and quantification of the causes of ageing skin provide tools to the clinical researcher as defined by key clinically observed ageing parameters. Where evidence requires additional support, a number of clinical procedures evaluating ageing skin and hair products are combined with invasive procedures, thus enabling an added value to product claims. As discussed herein, given the enhanced understanding of ageing, we provide an update to our previous reviews of clinical methods used in the assessment of skin ageing, to include the wider aspects of environmental exposure; skin pigmentation; microbiome disturbance; surface topography; colour, radiance, and pH; and structural integrity–all requiring a disciplined approach to their use in dermatological investigations and product claims evidence.
Maturational constraint or system preservation
Authors: Kanik Mehmet
Published: July 2018

There are a number of explanations for age effects such as learning conditions, biological factors and competition between learning mechanisms. This paper argues that there is a mental mechanism, system preservation device, which serves as a defense mechanism to preserve the L1, resulting in difficulties in adult second language acquisition. It develops together with the L1 and gradually makes learning a second language more difficult. The notion of system preservation may add further insight into concepts such as maturational constraints, fossilization, crosslinguistic influence and bilingual advantages for learning additional languages. Research into SPD could focus on experimental teaching that shifts some of the focus from the L2 to the L1 as flexing the L1 system may facilitate the acquisition of additional languages.
Effects of incorporation of sugarcane fibre on the physicochemical and sensory properties of chicken sausage
Authors: Fang Zhongxiang , Lin Peiying , Ha Minh , Warner Robyn Dorothy
Published: July 2018

Improving functional and eating qualities of processed meat products through incorporation of plant fibre is of interest to both consumers and food industry. This project investigated the physicochemical and sensory properties of chicken sausages with incorporation of up to 3% sugarcane fibre, a by‐product of sugarcane processing. Compared with no sugarcane fibre sample, the cooking yield of chicken sausage with 3% of fibre and 10% of water addition was increased from 94.20% to 97.52%, total phenolic content from 25.43 to 57.09 mg GAE/100 g and radical scavenging activity from 28.11% to 60.72%, whereas lipid oxidation of Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances value was decreased from 0.535 to 0.428 malondialdehyde mg kg−1. Moreover, consumer overall liking of chicken sausages was not affected by the incorporation of sugarcane fibre. This research suggested that incorporation of sugarcane fibre could improve eating quality and health benefits of the chicken sausage product, and add value to both the food and sugarcane industry.
Effect of fermentation on content, molecule weight distribution and viscosity of β‐glucans in oat sourdough
Authors: Lu Jun , Shan Lingke , Xie Yiting , Min Fangfang , Gao Jinyan , Guo Laichun , Ren Changzhong , Yuan Juanli , Gilissen Luud , Chen Hongbing
Published: July 2018

This study investigated the effect of fermentation on the physicochemical properties of β‐glucans in oat sourdough. Sourdoughs were produced from oat using homo‐fermentative lactic acid bacteria, Lactobacillus plantarum 22134. The contents of total β‐glucan and soluble β‐glucan, the molecular weight (MW) of β‐glucan and the viscosity of the extracted β‐glucans were determined at 0, 4, 8, 10 and 12 h of fermentation. The total β‐glucan content decreased from 4.89% to 4.23% after 12 h of fermentation. The soluble β‐glucan concentration increased from 1.89% to 2.18% and then decreased to 1.97% after 8 h of fermentation. The content of β‐glucans with MW > 105 decreased from 0 to 4 h of fermentation, followed by an increase and then a decrease after 8 h. The oat sourdough fermented for 8 h had high viscosity, which could be more beneficial for health and bread texture quality, especially for gluten‐free breads.
Why the Tennis “Serve Clock” may be a Waste of Time
Authors: Kovalchik Stephanie
Published: July 2018

At the US Open this year, tennis players will be faced with a serve clock, giving them 25 seconds to take their first shot. The clock is intended to speed up pace of play. However, analysis by Stephanie Kovalchik suggests the timer will make little difference
Conflicting realities experienced by children with life‐limiting and life‐threatening conditions when transitioning to adult health services
Authors: Noyes Jane , Pritchard Shan , Pritchard Aaron , Bennett Virginia , Rees Sally
Published: July 2018

Aims

The aim of this study was to report a secondary qualitative analysis exploring the cultural and practical differences that young people and parents experience when transitioning from children's to adult services.

Background

Despite two decades of research and quality improvement initiatives, young people with life‐limiting and life‐threatening conditions still find transition unsatisfactory.

Design

Secondary analysis: 77 qualitative interviews with children and young people (20), parents (35), siblings (1), professionals (21).

Methods

Qualitative framework analysis completed 2017.

Findings

Six conflicting realities were identified: Planning to live and planning to die with different illness trajectories that misaligned with adult service models; being treated as an adult and the oldest “patient” in children's services compared with being treated as a child and the youngest “patient” in adult services; being a “child” in a child's body in children's services compared with being a “child” in an adult's body in adult services for those with learning impairments; being treated by experienced children's professionals within specialist children's services compared with being treated by relatively inexperienced professionals within generalist adult services; being relatively one of many with the condition in children's services to being one of very few with the condition in adult services; meeting the same eligibility criteria in children's services but not adult services.

Conclusion

Inequity and skills deficits can be addressed through targeted interventions. Expanding age‐specific transition services, use of peer‐to‐peer social media, and greater joint facilitation of social support groups between health services and not‐for‐profit organizations may help mitigate age dilution and social isolation in adult services.
Paradigm shifts in inpatient psychiatric care of children: Approaching child‐ and family‐centered care
Authors: Regan Kathleen M. , Curtin Carol , Vorderer Lee
Published: July 2018

Topic

This article describes the components of child‐ and family‐centered care, including a review of the literature about the delivery of family‐centered care and the barriers that often prevent the provision of such care. The article describes an inpatient child psychiatric unit that has implemented an approach to care that embraces these principles. The changes in structures and policies that the unit adopted are described, with specific examples cited as illustrations of the components of this care.

Purpose

To describe the elements of child‐ and familycentered care and the ways in which this model of care may be implemented on inpatient child psychiatric units.

Sources used

Literature review including journal reports and articles and books.

Conclusions

Preliminary outcomes are encouraging in the decrease in use of practices such as restraint and seclusion, and physical holds. Further research examining parents’ satisfaction is warranted in determining the success of such endeavors.
Nursing in child psychiatric milieus: What nurses do: An update
Authors: Delaney Kathleen R.
Published: July 2018

In 1992, a paper published in the Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Nursing detailed the work of psychiatric nursing staff on inpatient child/adolescent psychiatric units. The paper was organized around five therapeutic processes seen to organize nursing interventions into the essential functions of a therapeutic milieu. This paper updates that scheme as well as the nursing interventions that operationalize these therapeutic processes. The model is now organized according to four therapeutic categories: Safety, Structure, Support, and Self‐Management. Each of these categories is explained and updated with recent nursing literature and psychiatric inpatient research. The support category highlights recent qualitative research focused on adolescents’ perceptions of their psychiatric hospitalization experience. Recommendations for future directions for nursing milieu practice are suggested.