bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A granulomatous conundrum: Concurrent necrobiosis lipoidica, cutaneous sarcoidosis and erythema nodosum in a nondiabetic patient
Authors: Valecha Nishant , Bennett Genevieve , Yip Leona
Published: February 2017

Necrobiosis lipoidica (NL) and cutaneous sarcoidosis are granulomatous disorders with a largely unknown aetiopathogenesis. Evidence of co‐existing NL and sarcoidosis in the same patient may suggest a degree of overlap between these entities through shared granulomatous inflammatory pathways. Occasionally, one condition can mimic the other, making their distinction difficult. We report a novel case of a non‐diabetic woman who presented with concurrent NL, cutaneous sarcoidosis and erythema nodosum. We discuss some of the complexities distinguishing these entities and propose that they may represent different stages of the same granulomatous process linked through yet unknown pathomechanisms.
Reasons for rarity of anal melanocytic naevi
Authors: Aljufairi Eman , Alhilli Fayek
Published: February 2017

In the last 16 years only seven definite cases of anal melanocytic naevi have been reported in the literature. We describe three new cases, none of which were suspected clinically and were incidentally diagnosed on histological examination of haemorrhoidectomy specimens. The infrequency of these special site flexural melanocytic lesions may be related to changes in the involutionary mechanisms of the anal melanocyte proliferation. However, other factors related to the low detection rates by clinicians and pathologists need also to be considered.
Promoting natural regeneration for the restoration of Juniperus communis: a synthesis of knowledge and evidence for conservation practitioners
Authors: Broome Alice , Long Deborah , Ward Lena K. , Park Kirsty J.
Published: February 2017

Questions

Natural regeneration is central to plant conservation strategies. Worldwide, many Juniperus species are threatened due to their failure to regenerate. We focus on Juniperus communis in areas of NW Europe where it is declining and ask: what advice is available to land managers on natural regeneration methods, and when applied, how effective has this been?

Methods

We synthesize knowledge on the efficacy of management interventions and conditions associated with J. communis regeneration. In field trials, we test interventions where knowledge is lacking. We assess regeneration of J. communis, creation of regeneration microsites and germination of sown seed in response to the interventions.

Results

Although J. communis occurs in different habitats, there is consistency in site conditions important for regeneration (unshaded/open, short ground vegetation, disturbed/bare ground, low herbivore pressure). In calcareous grasslands, areas with regeneration are stony/bare or vegetation is short or sparse; in upland acid grasslands and dry heathlands regeneration locations are disturbed areas sometimes with a moss cover. Several interventions (grazing, scarification, turf stripping) can create regeneration conditions. The synthesis identified cattle grazing and ground scarification for further testing on upland acid grasslands. In the resulting field trials, regeneration was rare and recorded on only one cattle‐grazed site. An exposed moss layer characterized regeneration microsites but there was insufficient evidence that either intervention increased regeneration microsite frequency. Few sown seeds germinated.

Conclusions

Different interventions or intensities of these appear to be required depending on habitat type. Broadly, on calcareous grassland intense scarification or soil stripping is needed, while on dry heathlands light scarification is suitable. On upland acid grassland, cattle grazing and ground scarification do not reliably result in regeneration. Creation of favourable mossy regeneration microsites is unlikely following intervention, unless soil fertility is low. Land‐use change, increased climate warming and pollution are pressures acting on J. communis and may cause habitat loss and altered site conditions (e.g. soil fertility), making it difficult to create regeneration microsites at all J. communis sites. Other constraints on regeneration may operate (e.g. seed predation and low seed viability) and managers should assess population and site potential before undertaking management.
Recruitment of riparian plants after restoration of geomorphic complexity in northern Sweden
Authors: Herberg Erik R. , Sarneel Judith M.
Published: February 2017

Question

Restoration of channelized streams increases geomorphic complexity but it remains unclear how this interacts with processes that drive future vegetation changes (dispersal, germination and establishment). This study asks if increased geomorphic complexity increases recruitment conditions of sown seeds or affects post‐dispersal natural seedling densities.

Location

Vindel River catchment, northern Sweden.

Methods

We selected seven study streams with paired reaches that differed in the degree to which geomorphic complexity was restored. Basic reaches used simple restoration methods while enhanced reaches additionally added large boulders and woody debris. We sowed seeds of six species at ten locations in each reach in 2014 and counted the number of seedlings after 8 wk and the number of naturally occurring seedlings in a plot adjacent to the sowing locations in 2013 and 2014. Using factor analysis based on 34 complexity measurements, overall geomorphic complexity was quantified for eight of the 14 reaches.

Results

Total numbers of sown (2014) and natural seedlings (2013 and 2014) summed per reach did not differ between restoration types when tested pair‐wise. Enhanced restoration did not always significantly increase geomorphic complexity, which differed considerably between the streams. More complex reaches were steeper, had larger size sediment and more nutrient‐poor soils. Total recruitment of sown species significantly decreased with increasing complexity. Numbers of natural seedlings differed considerably from 2013 to 2014, but were not related to complexity. In 2014, a potential parent plant of the same species occurred within the same plot for 71.8% of the natural seedlings that could be identified.

Conclusions

The recruitment of sown seeds was affected by overall geomorphic complexity rather than by the enhanced restoration. The absence of a correlation between geomorphic complexity and natural seedlings could indicate that natural seedling dynamics are not solely determined by recruitment conditions, but also by dispersal.
Effectiveness of vaginal breech birth training strategies: An integrative review of the literature
Authors: Walker Shawn , Breslin Eamonn , Scamell Mandie , Parker Pam
Published: February 2017

Background

The safety of vaginal breech birth depends on the skill of the attendant. The objective of this review was to identify, synthesize, and report the findings of evaluated breech birth training strategies.

Methods

A systematic search of the following on‐line databases: Medline, CINAHL Plus, PsychINFO, EBM Reviews/Cochrane Library, EMBASE, Maternity and Infant Care, and Pubmed, using a structured search strategy. Studies were included in the review if they evaluated the efficacy of a breech birth training program or particular strategies, including obstetric emergency training evaluations that reported differentiated outcomes for breech. Out of 1040 original citings, 303 full‐text articles were assessed for eligibility, and 17 methodologically diverse studies met the inclusion criteria. A data collection form was used to extract relevant information. Data were synthesized, using an evaluation levels framework, including reaction, learning (subjective and objective assessment), and behavioral change.

Results

No evaluations included clinical outcome data. Improvements in self‐assessed skill and confidence were not associated with improvements in objective assessments or behavioral change. Inclusion of breech birth as part of an obstetric emergencies training package without support in practice was negatively associated with subsequent attendance at vaginal breech births.

Conclusions

As a result of the heterogeneity of the studies available, and the lack of evidence concerning neonatal or maternal outcomes, no conclusive practice recommendations can be made. However, the studies reviewed suggest that vaginal breech birth training may be enhanced by reflection, repetition, and experienced clinical support in practice. Further evaluation studies should prioritize clinical outcome data.
A 10Be chronology of early Holocene local glacier moraines in central West Greenland
Authors: O'Hara Sandra L. , Briner Jason P. , Kelley Samuel E.
Published: February 2017

New cosmogenic 10Be exposure ages constrain Greenland Ice Sheet (GrIS) deglaciation and the culmination of a local glacier advance on the southern shore of Nuussuaq (peninsula) in central West Greenland. Mean ages of GrIS deglaciation and local glacier moraine deposition are 10.5±0.1 ka (n = 2) and 10.4±0.2 ka (n = 5), respectively. The similar ages suggest an advance/stillstand of local glaciers soon after the local retreat of the GrIS. The moraines dated in this study may be correlative to the nearby Disko Stade moraines. Moraine chronologies for both GrIS moraines and our local glacier moraines in central West Greenland correspond to detrital carbonate peaks in a Labrador shelf marine sediment core that records Laurentide Ice Sheet (LIS) discharge from Hudson Strait. Large freshwater discharge events into the North Atlantic sub‐polar gyre have been linked to abrupt cooling events in the Northern Hemisphere during the early Holocene. We propose LIS freshwater input to the sub‐polar gyre and associated regional cooling as the main driver for advance/stillstand of both local glaciers and the GrIS in central West Greenland during the early Holocene.
Late Pleistocene proboscidean population dynamics in the North American Midcontinent
Authors: Widga Chris , Lengyel Stacey N. , Saunders Jeffrey , Hodgins Gregory , Walker J. Douglas ,  Wanamaker Alan D.
Published: February 2017

Understanding megafaunal population dynamics is critical to testing and refining scenarios of how extinctions occurred during the terminal Pleistocene. Large‐scale, collections‐based, chronological and taphonomic analyses of midwestern Proboscidea suggest divergent population histories in mammoths and mastodons after the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM). Although extinction of both taxa occurred in the very late Bølling‐Allerød (B‐A) or early Younger Dryas (YD),Mammuthusis dominant during theLGMwith a decreasing presence in the region until extirpation.Mammut americanumhowever, is absent during theLGMbut becomes the dominant taxon during the subsequent B‐A. Trace and physical evidence of large carnivores in post‐LGMproboscidean assemblages is extremely rare, suggesting apex predators had minimal impact on mammoth and mastodon populations at this time. The ultimate mechanism(s) of extinction remain unclear; however, the wide geographical distribution of lateMammutand an increase in the frequency of multi‐animal death assemblages is consistent with a large, destabilized population experiencing periodic boom‐bust cycling at the end of the B‐A. We suggest this pattern is due to the collapse of trophic controls on proboscidean populations prior to theLGMand a subsequent system‐wide shift from top‐down to bottom‐up regulatory mechanisms in Proboscidea.
Cigarette smoking increases bronchial mucosal IL‐17A expression in asthmatics, which acts in concert with environmental aeroallergens to engender neutrophilic inflammation
Authors: Siew L. Q. C. , Wu S.‐Y. , Ying S. , Corrigan C. J.
Published: February 2017

Background

Mild asthmatics who smoke cigarettes may develop unstable disease and neutrophilic infiltration of the airways, features more usually associated with severe asthmatic disease. The mechanisms giving rise to this response remain unclear.

Objective

To address the hypothesis that smoking increases bronchial mucosal production of IL‐17A which acts on bronchial epithelial cells directly and in concert with other environmental stimuli to induce the production of IL‐6 and neutrophil chemotaxins.

Methods

IL‐17A, IL‐8, IL‐6, neutrophils and eosinophils were detected and quantified by immunohistochemistry in endobronchial biopsy sections from smoking and non‐smoking asthmatics. Human tracheal epithelial cells (HTEpC) were cultured with IL‐17A in the presence/absence of cigarette smoke extract (CSE) and aeroallergens lacking intrinsic protease activity, and IL‐6 and IL‐8 production measured in vitro.

Results

Expression of IL‐17A, IL‐6 and IL‐8 and neutrophil numbers was significantly elevated in the bronchial mucosa of the asthmatic smokers compared to the non‐smokers. Expression of IL‐17A correlated with that of IL‐8 and neutrophil numbers. In the smoking asthmatics, eosinophil numbers also correlated with expression of IL‐8 and IL‐17A. Exposure of HTEpC cells to both CSE and IL‐17A increased expression of IL‐6 and IL‐8 in a concentration‐dependent and synergistic manner. Co‐stimulation with CSE, IL‐17A and aeroallergens further increased IL‐6 and IL‐8 production synergistically.

Conclusions

The data support the hypothesis that asthmatic smokers develop neutrophilic inflammation of the airways propagated at least partly by smoke‐induced production of IL‐17A which together with smoke and other environmental stimuli acts on airways epithelial cells to induce neutrophil chemotaxins.
AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) activator A‐769662 increases intracellular calcium and ATP release from astrocytes in an AMPK‐independent manner
Authors: Vlachaki Walker Julia M. , Robb Josephine L. , Cruz Ana M. , Malhi Amrinder , Weightman Potter Paul G. , Ashford Michael L. J. , McCrimmon Rory J. , Ellacott Kate L. J. , Beall Craig
Published: February 2017

Aim

To test the hypothesis that, given the role of AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) in regulating intracellular ATP levels, AMPK may alter ATP release from astrocytes, the main sources of extracellular ATP (eATP) within the brain.

Materials and Methods

Measurements of ATP release were made from human U373 astrocytoma cells, primary mouse hypothalamic (HTAS) and cortical astrocytes (CRTAS) and wild‐type and AMPK α1/α2 null mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs). Cells were treated with drugs known to modulate AMPK activity: A‐769662, AICAR and metformin, for up to 3 hours. Intracellular calcium was measured using Fluo4 and Fura‐2 calcium‐sensitive fluorescent dyes.

Results

In U373 cells, A‐769662 (100 μM) increased AMPK phosphorylation, whereas AICAR and metformin (1 mM) induced a modest increase or had no effect, respectively. Only A‐769662 increased eATP levels, and this was partially blocked by AMPK inhibitor Compound C. A‐769662‐induced increases in eATP were preserved in AMPK α1/α2 null MEF cells. A‐769662 increased intracellular calcium in U373, HTAS and CRTAS cells and chelation of intracellular calcium using BAPTA‐AM reduced A‐769662‐induced eATP levels. A‐769662 also increased ATP release from a number of other central and peripheral endocrine cell types.

Conclusions

AMPK is required to maintain basal eATP levels but is not required for A‐769662‐induced increases in eATP. A‐769662 (>50 μM) enhanced intracellular calcium levels leading to ATP release in an AMPK and purinergic receptor independent pathway.
Preclinical characterization of 55P0251, a novel compound that amplifies glucose‐stimulated insulin secretion and counteracts hyperglycaemia in rodents
Authors: Stadlbauer Karin , Brunmair Barbara , Lehner Zsuzsanna , Adorjan Immanuel , Scherer Thomas , Luger Anton , Bauer Leonhardt , Fürnsinn Clemens
Published: February 2017

Aims

55P0251 is a novel compound with blood glucose lowering activity in mice, which has been developed from a molecular backbone structure found in herbal remedies. We here report its basic pharmacological attributes and initial progress in unmasking the mode of action.

Materials and methods

Pharmacokinetic properties of 55P0251 were portrayed in several species. First efforts to elucidate the glucose lowering mechanism in rodents included numerous experimental protocols dealing with glucose tolerance, insulin secretion from isolated pancreatic islets and comparison to established drugs.

Results

A single oral dose of 55P0251 improved glucose tolerance in mice with an ED50
between 1.5 and 2 mg/kg (reductions in areas under the curve, 1 mg/kg, −18%; 5 mg/kg, −30%; 27 mg/kg, −47%). Pharmacokinetic studies revealed attractive attributes, including a plasma half‐life of approximately 3 hours and a bioavailability of approximately 58% in rats. 55P0251 amplified glucose stimulated insulin release from isolated mouse islets and improved glucose tolerance via increased insulin secretion in rats (increase in area under the insulin curve, +184%). Unlike sulfonylureas and glinides, 55P0251 hardly stimulated insulin release under basal conditions and did not induce hypoglycaemia in vivo, but it amplified the secretory response to glucose and other insulinotropic stimuli (KCl, glucagon‐like peptide‐1). Comparison to established anti‐diabetic agents and examination of interaction with molecular targets (KATP
channel, dipeptidyl peptidase‐4, glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor) excluded molecular mechanisms addressed by presently marketed drugs.

Conclusions

55P0251 is a novel compound that potently counteracts hyperglycaemia in rodents via amplification of glucose‐stimulated insulin release.
The influence of traumatic occlusion on the repair process for teeth following subluxation
Authors: Amaral Marina Fuzette , Poi Wilson Roberto , Debortoli Caio Vinicius Lourenço , Panzarini Sônia Regina , Brandini Daniela Atili
Published: February 2017

Background/Aim

Traumatic occlusion (TO) can cause morphofunctional alterations that interfere in the homeostasis of the periodontium. The aim of this study was to assess the influence of TO on the periodontal repair process for teeth following subluxation.

Materials and Methods

Ninety Wistar rats aged 12 weeks were divided into three groups: control (C), subluxation (S) and subluxation with traumatic occlusion (S+TO). Subluxation was created with an impact force of 900 cN applied by a tensiometer and TO was created with a direct composite resin filling. Healing after two experimental periods of 7 and 21 days was assessed histologically. The Kruskal‐Wallis and Dunn post hoc tests were used for group comparison.

Results

At 7 days, there was a significant increase in periodontal ligament (PDL) width and amorphous fundamental substance, as well as a significant bone area reduction in groups S and S+TO. After 21 days, there was a significant PDL width increase in group S+TO, and in the percentage of collagen fibres in group S, whereas group S+TO showed a 52% bone area reduction compared to the same group at 7 days. Subluxation with or without TO caused only superficial root resorption. However, only group S+TO showed damage to the repair process of resorbed root areas after 21 days.

Conclusion

TO can increase damage to the PDL after subluxation and it can also delay the repair process after PDL damage.
The Influence of Incubation Conditions and Sex on Growth and Dispersal in Hatchling Lizards
Authors: Gifford Matthew E. , Robinson Christopher D. , Clay Timothy A.
Published: February 2017

Dispersal is a critical process that has profound influence on ecological and evolutionary processes. Many proximate factors influence natal dispersal, but it is currently unclear whether the conditions experienced during incubation play an important role. We manipulated incubation temperature and used mark–recapture of released hatchlings to test this hypothesis. We tested this hypothesis on the prairie lizard (Sceloporus consobrinus) using two experimental islands in a local reservoir. Incubation conditions influenced some aspects of hatchling morphology, but had little influence on the probability of dispersal. As generally predicted for a polygynous species, males were more likely to disperse than females; however, the growth rate of dispersing vs. resident individuals varied depending on sex. Dispersive male lizards did not grow faster than resident males, whereas female dispersers grew significantly slower than resident females. Although our study was not specifically designed to test for differential costs of dispersal for males and females, this pattern is consistent with recent research demonstrating sex‐specific fitness costs of dispersal.
Female House Wrens may Use a Low‐Amplitude Call as an Aggressive Signal
Authors: Krieg Cara A. , Burnett Alexandra D.
Published: February 2017

The majority of work on aggressive signaling has focused on male–male contests. Although females in many species compete over important resources, female signals are understudied. In house wrens (Troglodytes aedon), females compete with other females to protect nesting cavities and eggs. We suggest that a high‐pitched, low‐amplitude call, hereafter abbreviated as ‘HI’, may be an aggressive signal used by female house wrens. Using playback of simulated female intruders, we found that females used HI calls significantly more often during playback of female house wrens compared to playback of heterospecifics. Additionally, HI calls were given significantly more often in the minute preceding physical attack. In comparison, song rates did not predict future attacks. Finally, we present pilot data that suggest listening females may respond more aggressively to female playback containing HI calls compared to playback containing only songs. This suggests the reliability of HI calls could be maintained by a receiver retaliation rule. HI calls bear a striking resemblance to the low‐amplitude songs of many male songbirds, in terms of both acoustic structure and social context. This is one of the few reports of a putative low‐amplitude aggressive signal in a female songbird. However, the nature of female competition may make low‐amplitude signaling an underappreciated signaling form in female animals.
Nonlinear CO2 flux response to 7 years of experimentally induced permafrost thaw
Authors: Mauritz Marguerite , Bracho Rosvel , Celis Gerardo , Hutchings Jack , Natali Susan M. , Pegoraro Elaine , Salmon Verity G. , Schädel Christina , Webb Elizabeth E. , Schuur Edward A. G.
Published: February 2017

Rapid Arctic warming is expected to increase global greenhouse gas concentrations as permafrost thaw exposes immense stores of frozen carbon (C) to microbial decomposition. Permafrost thaw also stimulates plant growth, which could offset C loss. Using data from 7 years of experimental Air and Soil warming in moist acidic tundra, we show that Soil warming had a much stronger effect on CO2 flux than Air warming. Soil warming caused rapid permafrost thaw and increased ecosystem respiration (Reco), gross primary productivity (GPP), and net summer CO2 storage (NEE). Over 7 years Reco, GPP, and NEE also increased in Control (i.e., ambient plots), but this change could be explained by slow thaw in Control areas. In the initial stages of thaw, Reco, GPP, and NEE increased linearly with thaw across all treatments, despite different rates of thaw. As thaw in Soil warming continued to increase linearly, ground surface subsidence created saturated microsites and suppressed Reco, GPP, and NEE. However Reco and GPP remained high in areas with large Eriophorum vaginatum biomass. In general NEE increased with thaw, but was more strongly correlated with plant biomass than thaw, indicating that higher Reco in deeply thawed areas during summer months was balanced by GPP. Summer CO2 flux across treatments fit a single quadratic relationship that captured the functional response of CO2 flux to thaw, water table depth, and plant biomass. These results demonstrate the importance of indirect thaw effects on CO2 flux: plant growth and water table dynamics. Nonsummer Reco models estimated that the area was an annual CO2 source during all years of observation. Nonsummer CO2 loss in warmer, more deeply thawed soils exceeded the increases in summer GPP, and thawed tundra was a net annual CO2 source.
Potential relocation of climatic environments suggests high rates of climate displacement within the North American protection network
Authors: Batllori Enric , Parisien Marc‐André , Parks Sean A. , Moritz Max A. , Miller Carol
Published: February 2017

Ongoing climate change may undermine the effectiveness of protected area networks in preserving the set of biotic components and ecological processes they harbor, thereby jeopardizing their conservation capacity into the future. Metrics of climate change, particularly rates and spatial patterns of climatic alteration, can help assess potential threats. Here, we perform a continent‐wide climate change vulnerability assessment whereby we compare the baseline climate of the protected area network in North America (Canada, United States, México—NAM) to the projected end‐of‐century climate (2071–2100). We estimated the projected pace at which climatic conditions may redistribute across NAM (i.e., climate velocity), and identified future nearest climate analogs to quantify patterns of climate relocation within, among, and outside protected areas. Also, we interpret climatic relocation patterns in terms of associated land‐cover types. Our analysis suggests that the conservation capacity of the NAM protection network is likely to be severely compromised by a changing climate. The majority of protected areas (~80%) might be exposed to high rates of climate displacement that could promote important shifts in species abundance or distribution. A small fraction of protected areas (<10%) could be critical for future conservation plans, as they will host climates that represent analogs of conditions currently characterizing almost a fifth of the protected areas across NAM. However, the majority of nearest climatic analogs for protected areas are in nonprotected locations. Therefore, unprotected landscapes could pose additional threats, beyond climate forcing itself, as sensitive biota may have to migrate farther than what is prescribed by the climate velocity to reach a protected area destination. To mitigate future threats to the conservation capacity of the NAM protected area network, conservation plans will need to capitalize on opportunities provided by the existing availability of natural land‐cover types outside the current network of NAM protected areas.
Warmer night‐time temperature promotes microbial heterotrophic activity and modifies stream sediment community
Authors: Freixa Anna , Acuña Vicenç , Casellas Maria , Pecheva Stoyana , Romaní Anna M.
Published: February 2017

Diel temperature patterns are changing because of global warming, with higher temperatures being predicted to be more pronounced at night. Biological reactions are temperature dependent, with some occurring only during the daylight hours (e.g., light photosynthesis) and other during the entire day (e.g., respiration). Consequently, we expect the modification of daily temperature cycles to alter microbial biological reactions in stream sediments. Here, we aimed to study the effect of warming and changes of the diel temperature patterns on stream sediment biofilm functions tied to organic carbon decomposition, as well as on biofilm meiofaunal community structure. We performed an eight‐week experiment with 12 artificial streams subjected to three different diel temperature patterns: warming, warmer nights and control. Significant effects of warming on biofilm function and structure were mainly detected in the long term. Our results showed that warming altered biofilm function, especially in the warmer nights’ treatment, which enhanced β‐glucosidase enzyme activity. Interestingly, clear opposite diel patterns were observed for dissolved organic carbon and β‐glucosidase activity, suggesting that, at night, sediment bacteria quickly consume the input of photosynthetic dissolved organic carbon labile compounds created during light‐time. The biofilm structure was also altered by warming, as both warming and warmer night treatments enhanced copepod abundance and diminished abundances of turbellaria and nematodes, which, in turn, controlled bacterial, algal and ciliate communities. Overall, we conclude that warming has strong effect on sediment biofilm structure and enhanced microbial organic matter degradation which might, consequently, affect higher trophic levels and river carbon cycling.
Climate change–contaminant interactions in marine food webs: Toward a conceptual framework
Authors: Alava Juan José , Cheung William W. L. , Ross Peter S. , Sumaila U. Rashid
Published: February 2017

Climate change is reshaping the way in which contaminants move through the global environment, in large part by changing the chemistry of the oceans and affecting the physiology, health, and feeding ecology of marine biota. Climate change‐associated impacts on structure and function of marine food webs, with consequent changes in contaminant transport, fate, and effects, are likely to have significant repercussions to those human populations that rely on fisheries resources for food, recreation, or culture. Published studies on climate change–contaminant interactions with a focus on food web bioaccumulation were systematically reviewed to explore how climate change and ocean acidification may impact contaminant levels in marine food webs. We propose here a conceptual framework to illustrate the impacts of climate change on contaminant accumulation in marine food webs, as well as the downstream consequences for ecosystem goods and services. The potential impacts on social and economic security for coastal communities that depend on fisheries for food are discussed. Climate change–contaminant interactions may alter the bioaccumulation of two priority contaminant classes: the fat‐soluble persistent organic pollutants (POPs), such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), as well as the protein‐binding methylmercury (MeHg). These interactions include phenomena deemed to be either climate change dominant (i.e., climate change leads to an increase in contaminant exposure) or contaminant dominant (i.e., contamination leads to an increase in climate change susceptibility). We illustrate the pathways of climate change–contaminant interactions using case studies in the Northeastern Pacific Ocean. The important role of ecological and food web modeling to inform decision‐making in managing ecological and human health risks of chemical pollutants contamination under climate change is also highlighted. Finally, we identify the need to develop integrated policies that manage the ecological and socioeconomic risk of greenhouse gases and marine pollutants.
GATA3 expression in triple‐negative breast cancers
Authors: Byrne David J , Deb Siddhartha , Takano Elena A , Fox Stephen B
Published: February 2017

Aims

GATA‐binding protein 3 (GATA3) is a well‐studied transcription factor found to be essential in the development of luminal breast epithelium and has been identified in a variety of tumour types, including breast and urothelial carcinomas, making it a useful immunohistochemistry marker in the diagnosis of both primary and metastatic disease.

Methods and results

We investigated GATA3 protein expression in a 106 primary triple‐negative breast carcinomas (100 basal‐like, six non‐basal‐like) using Cell Marque mouse monoclonal anti‐GATA3 (L50‐823). Reverse transcription–quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT–qPCR) was used to quantify mRNA expression in 22 triple‐negative breast cancers (TNBCs) (20 primary and two cell lines), four luminal (three primary and one cell line) and five human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) (four primary and one cell line) amplified tumours. In 98 TNBCs where IHC was assessable, 47 (48%) had a 1+ or greater staining with 20 (21%) having high GATA3 expression when using a weighted scoring.

Conclusion

Our study has demonstrated that GATA3 expression is common in primary triple‐negative breast carcinomas. It also suggests that although GATA3 is an oestrogen receptor (ER) regulated gene, it still proves useful in differentiating between primary and metastatic tumours in patients with a history of breast cancer regardless of its molecular subtype.
H3F3A mutation in giant cell tumour of the bone is detected by immunohistochemistry using a monoclonal antibody against the G34W mutated site of the histone H3.3 variant
Authors: Lüke Julian , von Baer Alexandra , Schreiber Jordan , Lübbehüsen Christoph , Breining Thomas , Mellert Kevin , Marienfeld Ralf , Schultheiss Markus , Möller Peter , Barth Thomas F E
Published: February 2017

Aims

Giant cell tumour of the bone (GCTB) is a neoplasm predominantly of long bones characterized by the H3F3A mutation G34W. Conventional diagnosis is challenged by the tumour's giant cell‐rich morphology, which overlaps with other giant cell‐containing lesions of the bone. Recently, a monoclonal antibody specific for the H3F3A mutation has been generated. Our aim was to test this antibody on a cohort of giant cell‐containing lesions.

Methods and results

We used the antibody for analysis of 22 H3F3A‐mutated GCTB, including two patients with recurrences; for comparison we analysed a cohort of 36 H3F3A wild‐type giant cell‐rich lesions of the bone and soft tissue, containing one brown tumour, six aneurysmal bone cysts (ABC), six chondroblastomas, five non‐ossifying‐fibromas, two fibrous dysplasias, nine tenosynovial giant cell tumours, one giant cell‐rich sarcoma and six osteosarcomas. Furthermore, among the 22 mutated cases, we included one GCTB with two recurrences and lung metastases; the patient was treated with the anti‐receptor activator of nuclear factor κB (RANK) ligand denosumab. We show that all 22 H3F3A‐mutated GCTB display strong nuclear H3.3 G34W staining in the neoplastic component, while the osteoclastic giant cells are negative. 36 H3F3A wild‐type lesions are negative. The GCTB treated with denosumab revealed a reduction in the H3.3 G34W‐positive tumour cells and a decrease in osteoclastic giant cells accompanied by matrix and osteoid formation.

Conclusions

We conclude that positive H3.3 G34W staining is a specific and sensitive method for detection of H3F3A‐mutated GCTB. Denosumab treatment leads to a pathomorphosis of the lesion characterized by matrix and osteoid producing H3.3 G34W‐negative stromal cells.
Extra‐ampullary duodenal adenoma: a clinicopathological study
Authors: Hijikata Kazunori , Nemoto Tetsuo , Igarashi Yoshinori , Shibuya Kazutoshi
Published: February 2017

Aims

Extra‐ampullary duodenal adenoma (EADA) is a rare condition with poorly described clinicopathological details. In this study, we aimed to characterize EADA clinicopathologically.

Methods and results

We performed a retrospective review of 44 serial cases of EADA. Each EADA was categorized as either gastric‐type (n = 5) or intestinal‐type (n = 39). All gastric‐type adenomas were located in the first portion of the duodenum and exhibited a pedunculated shape. Gastric‐type adenomas were classified into two subtypes: pyloric gland and foveolar. The former consisted of mucin 6 (MUC6)‐positive glands covered with MUC5AC‐positive cells, whereas nearly all the latter consisted of MUC5AC‐positive cells. When EADAs were categorized into high and low grades, approximately 40% (16 of 44) were high‐grade. The high‐grade adenomas were significantly larger than the low‐grade adenomas (19.4 ± 8.6 mm versus 11.8 ± 5.1 mm, P = 0.021), and all adenomas greater than 20 mm in largest diameter were categorized as high‐grade adenomas. Among 16 individuals who underwent total colonoscopy before or after duodenal mucosal resection, nine had a colorectal neoplasm, and all nine duodenal lesions were of the intestinal phenotype.

Conclusions

We clarified the clinicopathological characteristics of gastric‐ and intestinal‐type EADAs. EADAs greater than 20 mm at the largest diameter were consistently high‐grade, and are thought to have the potential to progress to adenocarcinoma. These findings should be helpful for the clinical management of EADA.
Anti‐CD3 treatment up‐regulates programmed cell death protein‐1 expression on activated effector T cells and severely impairs their inflammatory capacity
Authors: Wallberg Maja , Recino Asha , Phillips Jenny , Howie Duncan , Vienne Margaux , Paluch Christopher , Azuma Miyuki , Wong F. Susan , Waldmann Herman , Cooke Anne
Published: February 2017

T cells play a key role in the pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes, and targeting the CD3 component of the T‐cell receptor complex provides one therapeutic approach. Anti‐CD3 treatment can reverse overt disease in spontaneously diabetic non‐obese diabetic mice, an effect proposed to, at least in part, be caused by a selective depletion of pathogenic cells. We have used a transfer model to further investigate the effects of anti‐CD3 treatment on green fluorescent protein (GFP)+ islet‐specific effector T cells in vivo. The GFP expression allowed us to isolate the known effectors at different time‐points during treatment to assess cell presence in various organs as well as gene expression and cytokine production. We find, in this model, that anti‐CD3 treatment does not preferentially deplete the transferred effector cells, but instead inhibits their metabolic function and their production of interferon‐γ. Programmed cell death protein 1 (PD‐1) expression was up‐regulated on the effector cells from anti‐CD3‐treated mice, and diabetes induced through anti‐PD‐L1 antibody could only be reversed with anti‐CD3 antibody if the anti‐CD3 treatment lasted beyond the point when the anti‐PD‐L1 antibody was washed out of the system. This suggests that PD‐1/PD‐L1 interaction plays an important role in the anti‐CD3 antibody mediated protection. Our data demonstrate an additional mechanism by which anti‐CD3 therapy can reverse diabetogenesis.
Developmental trajectories to heroin dependence: Theoretical and clinical issues
Authors: Darke Shane , Torok Michelle , Ross Joanne
Published: February 2017

We have built up a great deal of insight into the early developmental trajectories that lead to heroin use. These cluster under five domains: social disadvantage, parental drug use/psychopathology, childhood abuse and neglect, early onset psychopathology and antisocial behaviors, and a developmental sequence of drug onsets. While not all heroin users have these risk factors, the broad clinical picture shows these early correlates to be the predominant presentation. We discuss each of the early psychosocial correlates of heroin dependence, as well as possible early interventions. Given the chronicity of heroin dependence, interventions to prevent heroin use emerging would reduce the considerable burden of disease associated with the disorder.
Social amoebae mating types do not invest unequally in sexual offspring
Authors: Douglas T. E. , Queller D. C. , Strassmann J. E.
Published: February 2017

Unequal investment by different sexes in their progeny is common and includes differential investment in the zygote and differential care of the young. The social amoeba Dictyostelium discoideum has a sexual stage in which isogamous cells of any two of the three mating types fuse to form a zygote which then attracts hundreds of other cells to the macrocyst. The latter cells are cannibalized and so make no genetic contribution to reproduction. Previous literature suggests that this sacrifice may be induced in cells of one mating type by cells of another, resulting in a higher than expected production of macrocysts when the inducing type is rare and giving a reproductive advantage to this social cheat. We tested this hypothesis in eight trios of field‐collected clones of each of the three D. discoideum mating types by measuring macrocyst production at different pairwise frequencies. We found evidence that supported differential contribution in only two of the 24 clone pairs, so this pattern is rare and clone‐specific. In general, we did not reject the hypothesis that the mating types contribute cells relative to their proportion in the population. We also found a significant quadratic relationship between partner frequency and macrocyst production, suggesting that when one clone is rare, macrocyst production is limited by partner availability. We were also unable to replicate previous findings that macrocyst production could be induced in the absence of a compatible mating partner. Overall, mating type‐specific differential investment during sex is unlikely in microbial eukaryotes like D. discoideum.
A pilot randomised controlled trial investigating a Mediterranean diet intervention in pregnant women for the primary prevention of allergic diseases in infants
Authors: Sewell D. A. , Hammersley V. S. , Robertson A. , Devereux G. , Stoddart A. , Weir C. J. , Worth A. , Sheikh A.
Published: February 2017

Background

Observational studies suggest a potentially protective role of the Mediterranean diet (MD) in allergic diseases, including asthma. Large scale randomised controlled trials (RCTs) are needed to test the hypothesised allergy‐prevention benefits of a MD during pregnancy. The present two‐arm pilot RCT in pregnant women at high‐risk of having a child who would develop allergic disease investigated maternal recruitment, retention and acceptability of an MD dietary intervention in the UK. The trial also assessed the effect of the intervention on MD adherence scores at 12 and at 24 weeks post‐randomisation.

Methods

Thirty women were recruited at around 12 weeks of gestation. Retention was high (28 out of 30; 93%). The intervention was acceptable to participants. Mean (SD) adherence to the MD at baseline was 12.4 (2.9) in the intervention arm (n = 14) and 13.0 (1.9) in the control arm (n = 16), where 24 represents maximal adherence. There was a favourable short‐term change in MD score: the adjusted mean difference (intervention – control) in the change in MD score from baseline to 12 weeks post‐randomisation was 2.4 (95% confidence interval = 0.6–4.2, P = 0.012).

Conclusions

The trial provides important insights into recruitment, retention and sustaining the dietary intervention, which will be used in the design of a large RCT.
Community mental health nurses' and compassion: an interpretative approach
Authors: Barron K. , Deery R. , Sloan G.
Published: February 2017

Accessible summary

What is known on the subject?

The concept of compassion is well documented in the healthcare literature but has received limited attention in mental health nursing.

What this paper adds to existing knowledge?

Mental health nurses struggle with defining compassion. The study, with its limitations, brings greater clarity to the meaning of compassion for community mental health nurses and NHS organizations.

Mental health nurses need time to reflect on their provision of compassionate care.

What are the implications for practice?

The study has shown that compassion is important for NHS healthcare management, frontline mental health nurses and policy‐makers in UK, and there is potential for sharing practice and vision across NHS organisations.

Mental health nurses could benefit from training to facilitate their understanding of compassionate practices.

Emphasis should be placed on the importance of self‐compassion and how this can be nurtured from the secure base of clinical supervision.

Introduction

There is increasing emphasis in policy, research and practice in the UK and internationally on the importance of caring in health care. Compassion needs to be at the core of all healthcare professionals' practice. Recently, health care has received negative attention through media and government reports which cite a lack of compassion in care.

Rationale

The concept of compassion has received limited attention in community mental health nursing.

Aim

Based on data taken from semi‐structured interviews with community mental health nurses, this paper aims to describe interpretations and perspectives of compassion to gain insight and development of its meaning.

Method

A naturalistic, interpretive approach was taken to the study. Semi‐structured interviews with nine mental health nurses were analysed using Burnard's 14‐step model of thematic analysis.

Findings

The research illuminates the complexity of compassion and how its practice impacts on emotional responses and relationships with self, patients, colleagues and the employing organization. Participants identified difficulties engaging with compassionate practice whilst recognizing it as a driving force underpinning provision of care.

Implications for practice

Mental health nurses need to be supported to work towards a greater understanding of compassionate care for clinical practice and the need for self‐compassion.
Insights into the plastid diversity ofDaphne blagayanaFreyer (Thymelaeaceae)
Authors: Fišer Pečnikar Živa , Fujs Nataša , Brus Robert , Ballian Dalibor , Buzan Elena
Published: February 2017

Daphne blagayanais a small decumbent bush from the family Thymelaeaceae with a fragmented distribution range, comprising the Balkan Peninsula and the southern Romanian Carpathians. Due to its rarity it is protected by national legislation in almost all countries within its range. The aim of this work was to assess the plastid diversity ofDaphne blagayanafrom 21 locations throughout its distribution range using the chloroplast intergenic regionspsbA‐trnHandtrnK–matKwith the genematK. Moreover, we tried to determine with DNA and morphometric characters whether the division of the species into subspecies and varieties, which were mentioned in some literature (subsp.lerchenfeldiana, var.kellereri, subsp.zogovićii), reflects its phylogeographic structure. The results suggest the existence of three clusters: the northwestern cluster (ESU1), including Slovenian and Italian populations, the southern cluster (ESU2), including populations from Macedonia, Montenegro and some populations from southern Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the central cluster, including the remaining populations (Bulgaria, Romania and rest of the populations from Bosnia and Herzegovina). The results of the genetic as well as morphometric study do not support the existence of subsp.lerchenfeldianaand var.kellererias distinct infraspecific categories ofD. blagayana, thus we suggest that ESU's should be used instead in planning conservation actions.
The Influence of Standard and Substandard Dutch on Gender Assignment in Second Language German
Authors: Vanhove Jan
Published: February 2017

This study investigated how standard and substandard varieties of first language (L1) Dutch affect grammatical gender assignments to nouns in second language (L2) German. While German distinguishes between masculine, feminine, and neuter gender, the masculine–feminine distinction has nearly disappeared in Standard Dutch. Many substandard Belgian Dutch varieties, however, still mark this distinction, making them more akin to German than Standard Dutch in this respect. Seventy‐one Belgian and 104 Netherlandic speakers of Dutch with varying levels of German proficiency assigned gender‐marked German articles to German nouns with Dutch cognates; these gender assignments were then compared to the cognates’ gender in the standard and substandard L1 varieties. While the gender assignments of both Belgian and Dutch participants were strongly influenced by the cognates’ Standard Dutch gender, the Belgians’ responses showed, at best, weak traces of the masculine–feminine distinction in substandard Belgian Dutch. Possible reasons for this weak substandard variety influence are discussed.

Open Practices

This article has been awarded Open Data, Open Materials, and Preregistered Research Design badges. All data, R code, materials, and appendices, along with preregistration for research design and analyses, are publicly accessible via the Open Science Framework at https://osf.io/5ahzj. Learn more about the Open Practices badges from the Center for Open Science: https://osf.io/tvyxz/wiki.