bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A review of methods for quantifying spatial predator–prey overlap
Authors: Carroll Gemma , Holsman Kirstin K. , Brodie Stephanie , Thorson James T. , Hazen Elliott L. , Bograd Steven J. , Haltuch Melissa A. , Kotwicki Stan , Samhouri Jameal , Spencer Paul , Willis‐Norton Ellen , Selden Rebecca L.
Published: August 2019

Background

Studies that attempt to measure shifts in species distributions often consider a single species in isolation. However, understanding changes in spatial overlap between predators and their prey might provide deeper insight into how species redistribution affects food web dynamics.

Predator–prey overlap metrics

Here, we review a suite of 10 metrics [range overlap, area overlap, the local index of collocation (Pianka's O), Hurlbert's index, biomass‐weighted overlap, asymmetrical alpha, Schoener's D, Bhattacharyya's coefficient, the global index of collocation and the AB ratio] that describe how two species overlap in space, using concepts such as binary co‐occurrence, encounter rates, spatial niche similarity, spatial independence, geographical similarity and trophic transfer. We describe the specific ecological insights that can be gained using each overlap metric, in order to determine which is most appropriate for describing spatial predator–prey interactions for different applications.

Simulation and case study

We use simulated predator and prey distributions to demonstrate how the 10 metrics respond to variation in three types of predator–prey interactions: changing spatial overlap between predator and prey, changing predator population size and changing patterns of predator aggregation in response to prey density. We also apply these overlap metrics to a case study of a predatory fish (arrowtooth flounder, Atheresthes stomias) and its prey (juvenile walleye pollock, Gadus chalcogrammus) in the Eastern Bering Sea, AK, USA. We show how the metrics can be applied to understand spatial and temporal variation in the overlap of species distributions in this rapidly changing Arctic ecosystem.

Conclusions

Using both simulated and empirical data, we provide a roadmap for ecologists and other practitioners to select overlap metrics to describe particular aspects of spatial predator–prey interactions. We outline a range of research and management applications for which each metric may be suited.
Starting somewhere different: methodological cosmopolitanism and the study of world politics
Authors: SELCHOW SABINE
Published: August 2019

In this article, I contribute to the debate on Ulrich Beck's idea of ‘methodological cosmopolitanism’ from a political science perspective. How fruitful is Beck's idea for the study of world politics? How can a political science perspective turn ‘methodological cosmopolitanism’ into a more transdisciplinary subject of debate? Guided by these questions, I speak to two audiences. First, I offer political scientists a distinct strategy for empirical ‘cosmopolitan political science’ research. At the heart of this strategy is a novel object of research, the ‘cosmopolitan outlook’, understood as a discourse that breaks with the ‘national outlook’ to open possibilities for a world beyond ‘reflexive modernization’. With that, I shift the perspective from structure to discourse and broaden the normative grounds on which to assess cosmopolitan reality. Rather than just considering the emergence of normative cosmopolitan ideals, I build into cosmopolitan research the normative, empirical question of whether we see an emergence of a world beyond reflexive modernization. Second, I address scholars outside the field of political science who are interested in methodological cosmopolitanism by offering the ‘cosmopolitan outlook’ as a novel object of study that could also be explored from other disciplinary perspectives and by proposing they put the question of the purpose of methodological cosmopolitanism centre stage. This question can, I argue, constitute grounds for substantial debates on methodological cosmopolitanism not already precluded through disciplinary premises and concerns. Contributing to such a transdisciplinary debate, I distinguish between the long‐term and immediate purpose of methodological cosmopolitanism, the former being about the development of a cosmopolitan language and grammar and the latter about empirical explorations of the reality of the ‘cosmopolitan outlook’, eventually and in a collective and transdisciplinary endeavour building up to contribute to the former.
Perspectives on decision making amongst older people with end‐stage renal disease and caregivers in Singapore: A qualitative study
Authors: Han Emeline , Haldane Victoria , Koh Joel Jun Kai , Quek Rina Yu Chin , Ozdemir Semra , Finkelstein Eric Andrew , Jafar Tazeen Hasan , Choong Hui‐Lin , Gan Sheryl , Lim Lydia W. W. , Shiraz Farah , Legido‐Quigley Helena
Published: August 2019

Background

End‐stage renal disease (ESRD) is increasing both globally and in Asia. Singapore has the fifth highest incidence of ESRD worldwide, a trend that is predicted to rise. Older patients with ESRD are faced with a choice of haemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis or conservative management, all of which have their risks and benefits.

Objective

This study seeks to explore perspectives on decision making amongst older (≥70) Singaporean ESRD patients and their caregivers to undergo (or not to undergo) dialysis.

Design

Qualitative study design using semi‐structured interviews.

Setting and participants

Twenty‐three participants were recruited from the largest tertiary hospital in Singapore: seven peritoneal dialysis patients, five haemodialysis patients, four patients on conservative management and seven caregivers.

Results

While some patients believed that they had made an independent treatment decision, others reported feeling like they had no choice in the matter or that they were strongly persuaded by their doctors and/or family members to undergo dialysis. Patients reported decision‐making factors including loss of autonomy in daily life, financial burden (on themselves or on their families), caregiving burden, alternative medicine, symptoms and disease progression. Caregivers also reported concerns about financial and caregiving burden.

Discussion and conclusion

This study has identified several factors that should be considered in the design and implementation of decision aids to help older ESRD patients in Singapore make informed treatment decisions, including patients' and caregivers' decision‐making factors as well as the relational dynamics between patients, caregivers and doctors.
Blue light disrupts the circadian rhythm and create damage in skin cells
Authors: Dong K. , Goyarts E. C. , Pelle E. , Trivero J. , Pernodet N.
Published: August 2019

On a daily basis, the skin is exposed to many environmental stressors and insults. Over a 24‐h natural cycle, during the day, the skin is focused on protection; while at night, the skin is focused on repairing damage that occurred during daytime and getting ready for the next morning. Circadian rhythm provides the precise timing mechanism for engaging those different pathways necessary to keep a healthy skin through clock genes that are present in all skin cells. The strongest clue for determining cellular functions timing is through sensing light or absence of light (darkness). Here, we asked the question if blue light could be a direct entrainment signal to skin cells and also disrupt their circadian rhythm at night. Through a reporter assay for per1 transcription, we demonstrate that blue light at 410 nm decreases per1 transcription in keratinocytes, showing that epidermal skin cells can sense light directly and control their own clock gene expression. This triggers cells to “think” it is daytime even at nighttime. Elsewhere, we measured different skin cell damage because of blue light exposure (at different doses and times of exposure) vs. cells that were kept in full darkness. We show an increase in ROS production, DNA damage and inflammatory mediators. These deleterious effects can potentially increase overall skin damage over time and ultimately accelerates ageing.
The link between economic and social upgrading in global supply chains: Experiences from the Southern Cone
Authors: REINECKE Gerhard , POSTHUMA Anne
Published: August 2019

This article uses nine case studies of global supply chains (GSCs) in Southern Cone countries to explore the extent to which economic and social upgrading are linked and spread from lead firms to their supply chain. While economic and social upgrading are found in lead firm segments throughout the case studies, the impacts on suppliers are varied. Pattern groupings enable the authors to develop a three‐part typology of development in GSCs, in the light of which they consider the roles of public policies, company behaviour and social actors in addressing developmental outcomes for GSC lead firms and suppliers.
Does previous application of silver diammine fluoride influence the bond strength of glass ionomer cement and adhesive systems to dentin? Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Fröhlich Tatiana Tambara , Rocha Rachel de Oliveira , Botton Graziela
Published: August 2019

Background

Silver diammine fluoride (SDF) applied before a restoration may prevent recurrent caries; therefore, its effect on the bonding of restorative materials is contradictory.

Aim

To assess through a systematic review and meta‐analysis the influence of SDF on the bonding performance of adhesive materials to dentine.

Design

A systematic search was carried out in PubMed, Web of Science, LILACS, and Scopus. Studies comparing bond strength of adhesive systems or glass ionomer cement to SDF‐treated and ‐untreated (control) dentine were included. Global analysis comparing the bond strength data was performed, separately for adhesive systems and glass ionomer cement, using RevMan5.1, with a random‐effect model, at a 5% significance level.

Results

Eleven studies were included in the review and ten in the meta‐analyses. Overall pooled effect for glass ionomer cement has shown no significant difference between the groups (Z = 0.47; P = .64). SDF treatment significantly impairs the bonding of adhesive systems to dentine (Z = 2.11; P = .03); this effect can be eliminated by the rinsing step (Z = 0.85; P = .40).

Conclusions

The previous application of SDF does not influence the dentine bond strength of glass ionomer cement, but compromises the bonding of adhesive systems.
What drives subscribing to premium in freemium services? A consumer value‐based view of differences between upgrading to and staying with premium
Authors: Mäntymäki Matti , Islam A.K.M. Najmul , Benbasat Izak
Published: August 2019

Fostering the conversion of free users to premium subscribers and retaining those premium users are critical objectives for freemium service providers. Building on consumer value theory, we empirically examine the differences between basic and premium users in terms of the emotional, functional, social, epistemic, and economic values driving basic users' decisions to upgrade to premium subscriptions and premium users' decisions to retain their paid subscriptions. We employ enjoyment, intrusiveness of advertising in the free subscription, ubiquity, social connectivity, the discovery of new content, and the price value of the premium subscription as drivers of intentions and test our model using data from a leading digital content service that employs the freemium model. Our results show that enjoyment and price value of the premium subscription predict the intention to upgrade to premium, whereas the intention to retain the premium subscription is driven by ubiquity and the discovery of new content. Interestingly, social connectivity has no effect on the intention to upgrade but does have a small negative effect on the intention to retain the premium subscription. Contrary to our expectations, intrusiveness of advertising in the free subscription had a negative effect on the price value of the premium subscription. Collectively, our results imply that the intention to retain the premium subscription is influenced by attribute‐level value perceptions such as ubiquity, the discovery of new content, and social connectivity whereas the intention to upgrade is driven by benefits, ie, enjoyment and price value of the premium subscription.
A population‐based approach to the bi‐level multifollower problem: an application to the electricity retail market
Authors: Soares Inês , Alves Maria João , Henggeler Antunes Carlos
Published: August 2019

Dynamic tariffs are expected to be implemented as commercial offers of electricity retailers in smart grids, conveying price signals aimed at shaping usage patterns, with potential benefits to enhance grid efficiency and reduce end‐users’ costs. Retailers and consumers have divergent goals. While the objective of the retailer is to maximize profits, the purpose of consumers is to minimize their electricity bill. The interaction between the retailer and consumers can be modeled by means of bi‐level (BL) programming: the retailer sets the prices to be charged to consumers and these react by scheduling flexible appliances according to those prices and their comfort requirements. In this work, two hybrid BL optimization approaches are proposed to solve this problem, considering one leader (retailer) and multiple followers (consumers). Two population‐based approaches were developed, a genetic algorithm (GA) and a particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm, to deal with the upper level problem, both encompassing an exact mixed‐integer linear programming solver to address the lower level optimization problem. Different scenarios were generated, comprising one leader (retailer imposing different price schemes) and three followers (with different consumer profiles). Typical residential appliances were considered, with different operation cycles. Also, diverse tariff structures set by the retailer were analyzed. The performance of the two algorithms was compared. Results revealed a consistent superiority of PSO over GA.
An assessment of the efficiency of Spanish schools: evaluating the influence of the geographical, managerial, and socioeconomic features
Authors: Segovia‐Gonzalez M.M. , Dominguez C. , Contreras I.
Published: August 2019

The aim of the present paper is to explore the efficiency of Spanish schools while simultaneously considering data envelopment analysis (DEA) and multivariate analysis. Test scores from the Program for International Assessment reports are used as outputs while the resources of each institution are considered as inputs to the analysis. The methodology utilized determines the DEA efficiencies under various input/output combinations and the results are interpreted through the application of factor analysis and property‐fitting techniques. The objective of the study is to identify the strengths and weaknesses of each type of school and the connections with the way in which the efficiency is obtained. In the light of the results, the study concludes that there exist differences related with two of the criteria considered: the type of management of the schools and the parental socioeconomic level of the students. However, no differences appear when the geographical location of the institutions is considered to characterize the entities.
Education in people with venous leg ulcers based on a brochure about compression therapy: A quasi‐randomised controlled trial
Authors: Protz Kerstin , Dissemond Joachim , Seifert Myriam , Hintner Marianne , Temme Barbara , Verheyen‐Cronau Ida , Augustin Matthias , Otten Marina
Published: August 2019

Brochures are a useful supplement to patient education. There is increasing evidence that they are an effective medium to support patient satisfaction, adherence, and empowerment. This study aims to produce reliable data on how much patients with venous leg ulcer (VLU) may profit from a brochure that focuses on VLU and on measures and aims of the related compression therapy. The evaluation took part from October 2018 until March 2019 and included 136 patients with VLU and related compression therapy. They were randomly sorted into a case group and a control group of 68 patients each. The case group received a brochure about venous disease and compression therapy and filled in a questionnaire after reading. The questions ranged from basic knowledge about VLU and compression therapy to aspects of self‐care. The control group answered the same questions without previous reading of the brochure. The results show that in almost every aspect, the patients in the case group were better informed about their diseases, the compression therapy, and how they may support the measures adequately. This study suggests that patients with VLU may profit from a brochure that explains their disease and the related compression therapy. Better knowledge and understanding may strengthen their empowerment and adherence.
Ulcerative cutaneous lesions in the plantar aspect of foot owing to Schizophyllum commune
Authors: Antony Beena , Prakash Peralam Y.
Published: August 2019

Schizophyllum commune is an emerging basidiomycetous fungus increasingly reported attributing pulmonary infections. However, the involvement of S. commune in primary cutaneous ulcerative lesions in humans has not yet been reported. The aetiology of S. commune in wound infection may be overlooked or misdiagnosed. This may be due to the atypical colony morphology, lack of sporulation, and familiarity with this fungus as well as the difficulty in accurate identification. We report here the first case of an ulcerative cutaneous infection caused by S. commune in the plantar aspect of foot in a healthy individual. Skin grafting was performed and the wound healed completely.
Efficacy of dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant to local wound infiltration anaesthesia in abdominal surgery: A meta‐analysis of randomised controlled trials
Authors: Ren Yifeng , Shi Wei , Chen Chengzhe , Li Huifang , Zheng Xiaozhen , Zheng Xuemei , Niu Chenguang
Published: August 2019

To assess the efficacy and safety of dexmedetomidine (DEX) as an adjuvant to local wound infiltration anaesthesia in abdominal surgery, we conducted this meta‐analysis. First, the systematic search strategy was performed on PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library and five randomised controlled trials (RCTs) involving 294 patients were included. Then, the outcome data were extracted from the studies and their effect sizes were calculated using Review Manager 5. As a result, the addition of DEX significantly reduced visual analogy scores at 6 hours after surgery (mean difference = −0.53[−0.82, −0.25], P < .001), 12 hours after surgery (mean difference = −0.39 [−0.73, −0.05]; P = .03), and 24 hours after surgery (mean difference = −0.20 [−0.29, −0.11], P < .001) and reduced total analgesic consumption within 24 hours after surgery (mean difference = −4.92 [−9.00, −0.84]; P = .02) compared with placebo groups. However, there was no difference in the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (risk ratio = 0.68 [0.41, 1.14]; P = .14). In summary, DEX as a local anaesthetic adjuvant added for local wound infiltration anaesthesia in abdominal surgery could reduce visual analogy scores and postoperative analgesic consumption without changing incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting.
Studying the effect of structured ostomy care training on quality of life and anxiety of patients with permanent ostomy
Authors: Khalilzadeh Ganjalikhani Mahboobeh , Tirgari Batool , Roudi Rashtabadi Omsalimeh , Shahesmaeili Armita
Published: August 2019

Patients with ostomy are faced with several physical, psychological, and social challenges and need to be prepared to overcome these challenges. Studies have shown that training plays an important role in helping patients to adapt with ostomy, live with it, and improve their psychological well‐being and quality of life (QOL). Therefore, the present study aimed to determine the effect of structured ostomy care training on QOL and anxiety of the patients with permanent ostomy. In this randomised clinical trial study, 60 eligible participants were recruited from the only ostomy clinic in Kerman, Iran. They were selected using a purposive sampling method and randomly assigned to either a control group that received routine ostomy care or an intervention group that attended oral and practical training and a question and answer session by a trained ostomy nurse and received an ostomy information booklet besides their routine care. Outcome variables were anxiety and QOL in general and its physical, mental, social, and spiritual dimensions in detail. By using the anxiety subscale of Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and City of Hope‐quality of life [COH‐QOL], data were collected before and 2 months after intervention in both groups. Data were analysed by SPSS version 19 using χ², analysis of variance (ANOVA), independent t, and paired t test and multiple regression analysis. The results showed that the intervention group had significantly lower mean scores in anxiety (P = .001) and a higher mean score in overall QOL (P = .009) compared with the control group. The most significant increase was observed for psychological, social, and physical aspects, and the least was in the spiritual aspect, all of which improved after intervention. After controlling the effects of confounding variables such as age, ostomy period, and number of children, the structured training programme still had a positive effect on QOL. Structured ostomy care training, including face‐to‐face education and personal practice of using ostomy equipment, along with written material provided by the ostomy nurse specialist, may lead to an increase in the overall QOL and a decrease in the perceived anxiety level in patients. This type of training is not routinely delivered to ostomy patients in our health care setting, so it is feasible to prepare surgical wards and to educate nurses to work with their patients before and after ostomy creation. Furthermore, to ease patients' religious concerns, we recommend counselling, and the support of religious leaders in the Muslim community may play a key role to adaptation regarding religious matters after ostomy surgeries and alleviate patients' concerns.
Moderating role of reading comprehension in children's word learning with context versus pictures
Authors: Gruhn Sophie , Segers Eliane , Verhoeven Ludo
Published: August 2019

We investigated pictorial versus contextual support effects over and above teaching of definitions on children's word learning and retention as well as the moderating role of reading comprehension. In a between‐subject pre‐post‐retention test control group design, Dutch fourth graders learned concrete and abstract Dutch words. The context group received definitions and context sentences, the picture group received definitions and pictures, and the control group only received definitions. Children in the picture group outperformed children in the context group but not the control group on all words directly after learning. This learning gain, however, disappeared over time because participants in the context group retrieved the word meanings better than in the other groups 1 day later. Interestingly, reading comprehension moderated the forgetting effect, as low comprehenders in the experimental groups forgot less than those in the control group. Adding pictures to definitions, thus, leads to richer long‐term knowledge for low comprehenders.
The importance of supportive periodontal therapy for molars treated with furcation tunnelling
Authors: Nibali Luigi , Akcalı Aliye , Rüdiger Stefan Gunnar
Published: August 2019

Background and objective

Degree III furcation involvement (FI) represents a risk of molar tooth loss. A limited number of studies have assessed the survival of molars with degree III FI treated with tunnelling procedures.

Aims

The aim of the present study was to assess periodontal disease progression and tooth loss in a cohort of patients with degree III FI treated with tunnelling by two periodontists in a private practice setting in the UK and in a hospital setting in Sweden.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective study was conducted on 102 consecutive surgically created tunnelled molars in 62 periodontitis patients and followed up at least 5 years later (average 7‐year and 9‐month follow‐up).

Results

Overall tooth loss for tunnelled molars was 29.4%. Multivariate analysis revealed statistically significant associations with tooth loss for ‘irregular supportive periodontal therapy (SPT’; p = .039) and age (p = .037). Tooth loss occurred only in the Swedish sample, not undergoing regular SPT.

Conclusion

A high rate of tooth loss was observed following tunnelling surgery, mainly in patients not undergoing regular supportive therapy. Clinical studies should be carried out to compare tunnelling with other treatment options for advanced furcation involvement in patients on SPT.
Protocol for the development of core set of domains of the core outcome set for patients with congenital melanocytic naevi (OCOMEN project)
Authors: Oei W. , Fledderus A.C. , Korfage I. , Eggen C.A.M. , van der Horst C.M.A.M. , Spuls P.I. , Brinkmann S.J.H. , Wolkerstorfer A. , van Kessel M. , Pasmans S.
Published: August 2019

Background

Having large congenital melanocytic naevi (CMN) is associated with a psychosocial burden on patients and their parents because of its remarkable appearance and the extra care it may require. Large CMN also pose an increased risk of malignant melanoma or neurocutaneous melanosis. There is a lack of international consensus on what important outcome domains to measure in relation to treatment. This makes it difficult to compare options, to properly inform patients and their parents, and to set up treatment policy for CMN. Therefore, we aim to develop a core outcome set (COS), i.e. the minimum set of outcomes that are recommended to be measured and reported in all clinical trials of a specific health condition. This COS can be used in the follow‐up of CMN patients with or without treatment, in clinical research and practice.

Methods

In the Outcomes for Congenital Melanocytic Nevi (OCOMEN) projects, we follow the recommendations from the Core Outcome Measures in Effectiveness Trials (COMET) initiative and the Cochrane Skin Core Outcomes Set Initiative (CS‐COUSIN). This project entails the following: (i) a systematic review to identify the previous reported outcomes in literature; (ii) focus groups with national and international patients and parents to identify patient‐important outcomes; (iii) classification of outcomes into outcome domains; (iv) e‐Delphi surveys in which stakeholders (patients/parents and professionals) can rate the importance of domains and outcomes; and (v) an online consensus meeting to finalize the core outcome domains of the COS.

Results

The results will be disseminated by means of publication in a leading journal and presentations in international meetings or conferences. We engage international experts in CMN, both patients and professionals, to ensure the international utility and applicability of the COS.
Biologic therapies targeting the interleukin (IL)‐23/IL‐17 immune axis for the treatment of moderate‐to‐severe plaque psoriasis: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Erichsen C.Y. , Jensen P. , Kofoed K.
Published: August 2019

There are a rapidly increasing number of novel biologic therapies for psoriasis targeting interleukin‐23 (IL‐23) and interleukin‐17 (IL‐17). This systematic review and meta‐analysis evaluated the efficacy and safety of induction therapy (12–16 weeks) with biologic therapies targeting the IL‐23/IL‐17 immune axis for the treatment of moderate‐to‐severe plaque psoriasis. Twenty‐seven randomized controlled trials met the specified inclusion criteria. The results showed that ixekizumab q2w had the greatest efficacy in terms of achieving 90% reduction in Psoriasis Area and Severity Index when compared to placebo [risk ratio (RR): 65.01, 95% confidence intervals (CI): 13.97–302.56, P < 0.00001], etanercept (RR: 3.14, 95% CI: 2.22–4.45) and ustekinumab (RR: 1.73, 95% CI: 1.41–2.12). The IL‐17 inhibitors were overall shown to have a higher efficacy than the IL‐23 inhibitors during induction therapy. However, the IL‐17 inhibitors had an increased risk of adverse events when compared to placebo, while there was no increased risk with any of the IL‐23 inhibitors. In conclusion, induction therapy with IL‐17 inhibitors is highly efficacious but carries a higher risk of adverse events than induction therapy with IL‐23 inhibitors.
Basal cell carcinoma genetic susceptibility increases the rate of skin ageing: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: van der Poort E.K.J. , Gunn D.A. , Beekman M. , Griffiths C.E.M. , Slagboom P.E. , van Heemst D. , Noordam R.
Published: August 2019

Background

Onset of basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is connected to skin ageing, but it is unclear whether higher BCC genetic susceptibility drives skin ageing.

Objectives

To investigate whether loci increasing genetic susceptibility to BCC also drive multiple features of skin ageing, independently of confounding factors, using Mendelian randomization.

Methods

A Mendelian randomization study was conducted in older adults from the Leiden Longevity Study (N = 604). A total of 25 BCC loci, selected based on a published genome‐wide association study on BCC (P‐value < 5 × 10−8), were used as genetic instruments for the calculation of a standardized (mean = 0, SD = 1) weighted BCC genetic risk score. Based on facial photographs, we determined perceived age, and skin wrinkling and pigmented spot grading.

Results

A higher BCC genetic risk score was associated with a higher perceived age (adjusted for chronological age and sex) of 0.88 years (95% CI: 0.44, 1.31; P‐value = 7.1e−5), greater wrinkling by 0.14 grades (95% CI: 0.05, 0.23; P‐value = 2.3e−3), and greater pigmented spots by 0.17 grades (95% CI: 0.08, 0.25; P‐value = 1.1e−4). These findings were weakened but still present after exclusion of gene variants in MC1R and IRF4 which have potential pleiotropic effects.

Conclusions

Mechanisms influenced by genetic loci increasing susceptibility to BCC also drive skin ageing suggesting shared biology and shared targets for interventions.
Meconium‐stained amniotic fluid as a protective factor against childhood dermatitis and skin rash‐related hospitalization in the offspring – a population‐based cohort analysis
Authors: Krieger Y. , Horev A. , Wainstock T. , Sheiner E. , Walfisch A.
Published: August 2019

Background

Gut microbiome influences cutaneous diseases including atopic dermatitis. Possible impact of intrauterine exposure to meconium on the occurrence of dermatitis and skin rash was proposed.

Objective

We investigated the possible influence of intrauterine exposure to meconium‐stained amniotic fluid (MSAF) on the occurrence of dermatitis and skin rash‐related hospitalizations throughout childhood.

Methods

Singleton deliveries occurring between 1991 and 2014 at a single medical centre were divided into two study groups based on presence or lack of MSAF during delivery. Population‐based cohort analysis, Kaplan–Meier survival analysis and Cox proportional hazards model were used to study the association between MSAF and cutaneous morbidity‐related hospitalizations.

Results

A lower rate of the total dermatitis or skin eruption‐related hospitalization was documented in the MSAF‐exposed group; 0.78 per 1000‐person years (0.9%, n = 312), as compared to 0.98 per 1000‐person years in the unexposed group (1.0%, n = 1992) with a hazard ratio of 0.86 (95% CI 0.76‐0.96, P = 0.011). The survival curve showed lower cumulative hospitalization rate in the MSAF‐exposed group as compared to the unexposed group (log rank P = 0.01). The Cox analysis, controlled for confounders, demonstrated MSAF exposure to be an independent protective factor for dermatitis and skin rash‐related hospitalizations during childhood (adjusted HR 0.878 (95% CI 0.779‐0.990, P = 0.034).

Conclusion

Fetal exposure to MSAF appears to be an independent protective factor for dermatitis and skin rash‐related hospitalizations in the offspring throughout childhood and adolescence.
Morphology, Morphogenesis, and Phylogeny of Urosoma caudata (Ehrenberg, 1833) Berger, 1999 (Ciliophora, Hypotrichia) based on a Chinese Population
Authors: Xu Wenxin , Zhao Yan , Pan Bo , Liu Yongqiang , Li Yuan , Bourland William A. , Luo Xiaotian
Published: August 2019

We report the morphology and morphogenesis of Urosoma caudata (Ehrenberg, 1833) Berger, 1999 based on in vivo observation and protargol impregnation and provide an improved diagnosis of U. caudata based on previous and current work. Urosoma caudata differs from its congeners mainly by the combination of the following features: tail‐like posterior end, colorless cortical granules, and two macronuclear nodules. Urosoma caudata shares most of the ontogenetic features with its congeners: the oral primordium of the opisthe develops apokinetally, and the frontal‐ventral‐transverse cirral anlagen develop in five streaks. However, a unique morphogenetic characteristic is recognizable: the anlagen of three dorsal kineties occur de novo to the left of the parental structures differing from their intrakinetal origin in other Urosoma species. The first record of the 18S rRNA gene sequence for the species is also provided. Phylogenetic analyses based on 18S rRNA gene sequence data suggest that the genus Urosoma is a nonmonophyletic group.
Heritable morphological differentiation in salmonids from two distinct stream types
Authors: Dermond Philip , Sperlich Nicola , Brodersen Jakob
Published: August 2019

We tested for phenotype‐to‐habitat associations in brown troutSalmo truttapopulations from two ecologically different habitat types;i.e., groundwater and surface‐water‐fed streams. Additionally, we raised captive offspring from two such populations under standardised conditions to test whether potential phenotypic differentiation would be passed on to offspring. We found analogous differentiation by habitat in multiple wild populations. Some of these morphological differences were at least partially inherited by offspring. We suggest that this could have implications for both scientists and fisheries authorities studying or managing trout populations.
Genetic and historical evidence of common sawsharks Pristiophorus cirratus in the waters of southern Queensland
Authors: Nevatte Ryan J. , Wueringer Barbara E. , Gillings Michael R. , Williamson Jane E.
Published: August 2019

In 2011, a male pristiophorid was caught by a prawn trawler north east of Cape Moreton, Queensland, Australia. Molecular analyses confirmed the specimen to be the common sawshark Pristiophorus cirratus. Historical catch data indicate the occurrence of the species in the region but this is the first verified record of P. cirratus occurring in the waters of southern Queensland. Together, these records extend the recognised northern limit of P. cirratus by c. 500 km, which suggests that further investigation of its distribution is warranted.
Sheet‐extruded films from blends of hydroxypropylated and native corn starches, and their characterization
Authors: Kim Hee‐Young , Lamsal Buddhi , Jane Jay‐lin , Grewell David
Published: August 2019

Sheet‐extruded films from the blends of hydroxypropylated normal corn starch (HP) and native normal corn starch (NS) at weight ratios of 100:0, 90:10, 70:30, 50:50, 30:70, and 0:100 were prepared and characterized. Glycerol and water were added as plasticizers at 11 and 27% starch weight, respectively. The highest tensile strength (TS) and longest elongation to break (EB) for dry films were observed at 70:30 HP: NS ratio, which was 25.76 MPa, and 3.97%, respectively. However, TS and EB of this 70:30 blend extruded starch film exhibited low resistance upon wetting for 10s. The film TS and EB were reduced to 13.26 MPa and 3.35%, respectively. Addition of 0.5% (wt/wt starch) succinic acid (SA) as a cross‐linker to 70:30 HP: NS starch blend before film extrusion positively affected both TS and EB of films upon wetting; rather higher TS (16.64 MPa) and EB (4.85%) values were observed, which indicated improvement in water resistance of the films. Sheet‐extruded films from 70:30 HP: NS blends resulted in improved dry strength, and upon cross‐linking with SA, improved wet strength as well. The films had smooth and compact structure, which was explained by esterification/transesterification reactions promoted by SA, and confirmed by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy analysis.

Practical Applications

Manufacturing packaging films from biological sources, as well as coating materials, would be beneficial to the environment along with wider applications. Biobased packaging materials include both edible coatings and edible films along with primary and secondary packaging materials, and could also have non‐food applications. They are derived from renewable sources and are potentially biodegradable through composting (which is a technique for waste management). Hydroxypropylation of starch results in wider functionality, and sheet‐extrusion can result in more flexible and transparent films. Blends of 70:30 HP: NS resulted in stronger sheet‐extruded films; testing of both dry and wet strengths of films indicated its suitability for both as edible coating (wet application), and other dry coatings/ films. These blend film can be an alternative to synthetic packaging films within their limitations.
Intraductal placement of non‐flared fully covered metallic stent for refractory anastomotic biliary strictures after living donor liver transplantation: Long‐term results of prospective multicenter trial
Authors: Yoo Jeong‐Ju , Lee Jong‐Kyun , Moon Jong Ho , Lee Yun Nah , Park Jae Keun , Lee Kyu Taek , Lee Kwang Hyuck , Lee Woo Jin , Woo Sang Myung , Lee Tae Hoon , Park Sang‐Heum
Published: August 2019

Background and Aim

Fully covered self‐expandable metallic stent (FCSEMS) may be an effective modality for managing anastomotic biliary stricture (ABS) after liver transplantation. However, stent migration and stent‐induced ductal injury are the main limitations. The objective of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of an unflared, intraductal FCSEMS that was designed to minimize migration and ductal injury for refractory ABS after living donor liver transplantation (LDLT).

Methods

A total of 32 consecutive patients with symptomatic ABS after LDLT unresolved by plastic stents with or without balloon dilation at four tertiary medical centers were prospectively enrolled. A short (3 or 5 cm) FCSEMS having long lasso (10 cm) used in this study had unflared convex ends to minimize tissue hyperplasia and smaller center portion to prevent migration. The FCSEMS was placed above the papilla and removed at 3–4 months after stenting.

Results

Technical and clinical success rates of intraductal placement with FCSEMS were 100% (32/32) and 81.2% (26/32), respectively. Early stent migration was observed in five (15.6%) patients. However, three patients with early stent migration had stricture resolution without needing additional intervention. Intended stent removal was successful in 27 (100%) patients (median, 101 days; range, 23–118 days). No stent‐induced ductal change was observed in all patients. Stricture recurrence was observed in 11.5% (3/26) of patients during 639 days of median duration of follow‐up (range, 366–2079 days).

Conclusions

Intraductal placement of an unflared short FCSEMS may be a promising option for refractory ABS after LDLT with minimal stent‐induced ductal injury and stent migration.
Fast serotonin voltammetry as a versatile tool for mapping dynamic tissue architecture: I. Responses at carbon fibers describe local tissue physiology
Authors: Abdalla Aya , West Alyssa , Jin Yunju , Saylor Rachel A. , Qiang Beidi , Peña Edsel , Linden David J. , Nijhout H. Frederik , Reed Michael C. , Best Janet , Hashemi Parastoo
Published: August 2019

It is important to monitor serotonin neurochemistry in the context of brain disorders. Specifically, a better understanding of biophysical alterations and associated biochemical functionality within subregions of the brain will enable better of understanding of diseases such as depression. Fast voltammetric tools at carbon fiber microelectrodes provide an opportunity to make direct evoked and ambient serotonin measurements in vivo in mice. In this study, we characterize novel stimulation and measurement circuitries for serotonin analyses in brain regions relevant to psychiatric disease. Evoked and ambient serotonin in these brain areas, the CA2 region of the hippocampus and the medial prefrontal cortex, are compared to ambient and evoked serotonin in the substantia nigra pars reticulata, an area well established previously for serotonin measurements with fast voltammetry. Stimulation of a common axonal location evoked serotonin in all three brain regions. Differences are observed in the serotonin release and reuptake profiles between these three brain areas which we hypothesize to arise from tissue physiology heterogeneity around the carbon fiber microelectrodes. We validate this hypothesis mathematically and via confocal imaging. We thereby show that fast voltammetric methods can provide accurate information about local physiology and highlight implications for chemical mapping.

image

Cover Image for this issue: doi: 10.1111/jnc.14739.
G protein‐coupled oestrogen receptor stimulation ameliorates iron‐ and ovariectomy‐induced memory impairments through the cAMP/PKA/CREB signalling pathway
Authors: Machado Gustavo Dalto Barroso , de Freitas Betânia Souza , Florian Leonardo Zanetti , Monteiro Ricardo Tavares , Gus Henrique , Schröder Nadja
Published: August 2019

Iron accumulation in the brain has been associated with neurodegenerative disorders, and imaging studies in humans indicate that iron content in brain regions correlates with poor performance in cognitive tasks. In rats, iron overload impairs memory retention in a variety of memory tasks. Although the effects of iron on cognition in rodents are extensively reported, no previous study has been conducted in female rats. The incidence of certain dementias, such as Alzheimer's disease, is higher in women after menopause compared to aged‐matched men. The role of oestrogen depletion in memory deficits in menopausal women is still a matter of debate. The present study aimed to characterise the effects of iron overload on memory in female rats by investigating the effects of ovariectomy (OVX, an experimental model of oestrogen depletion) in rats submitted to iron overload, as well as examining the effects of G protein‐coupled oestrogen receptor (GPER) agonism on memory impairments induced by iron and OVX. Female rats received iron (30 mg kg‐1, orally) or vehicle at postnatal days 12‐14 and were submitted to OVX in adulthood. Results showed that either iron or OVX impaired memory for object placement and inhibitory avoidance. The selective GPER agonist G1, administered immediately after training, reversed both iron‐ and OVX‐induced memory impairments. G1 effects were abolished by protein kinase A (PKA) inhibition, suggesting the involvement of the cAMP/PKA/CREB signalling pathway. The search for novel oestrogen agonists with positive effects on cognition may be promising for the development of treatments for memory disorders.
Sexually dimorphic neuronal inputs to the neuroendocrine dopaminergic system governing prolactin release
Authors: Esteves Francisco F. , Matias Diogo , Mendes Ana R. , Lacoste Bertrand , Lima Susana Q.
Published: August 2019

Prolactin (PRL) is a pleiotropic hormone that was identified in the context of maternal care and its release from the anterior pituitary is primarily controlled by neuroendocrine dopaminergic (NEDA) neurones of the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus. The sexually dimorphic nature of PRL physiology and associated behaviours is evident in mammals, even though the number and density of NEDA neurones is reported as not being sexually dimorphic in rats. However, the underlying circuits controlling NEDA neuronal activity and subsequent PRL release are largely uncharacterised. Thus, we mapped whole‐brain monosynaptic NEDA inputs in male and female mice. Accordingly, we employed a rabies virus based monosynaptic tracing system capable of retrogradely mapping inputs into genetically defined neuronal populations. To gain genetic access to NEDA neurones, we used the dopamine transporter promoter. Here, we unravel 59 brain regions that synapse onto NEDA neurones and reveal that male and female mice, despite monomorphic distribution of NEDA neurones in the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus, receive sexually dimorphic amount of inputs from the anterior hypothalamic nucleus, anteroventral periventricular nucleus, medial preoptic nucleus, paraventricular hypothalamic nucleus, posterior periventricular nucleus, supraoptic nucleus, suprachiasmatic nucleus, lateral supramammillary nucleus, tuberal nucleus and periaqueductal grey. Beyond highlighting the importance of considering sex as a biological variable when evaluating connectivity in the brain, these results illustrate a case where a neuronal population with similar anatomical distribution has a subjacent sexually dimorphic connectivity pattern, potentially capable of contributing to the sexually dimorphic nature of PRL release and function.
Class differentiation, deagrarianization, and repeasantization following the coffee crisis in Agua Buena, Costa Rica
Authors: Babin Nicholas
Published: August 2019

This research evaluated trajectories of agrarian change following liberalization and deregulation of the coffee commodity chain, assessing the transformation of agrarian class structures and livelihoods between 2000 and 2009 among landed coffee farmers from Agua Buena, Costa Rica. Simultaneous processes of differentiation, deagrarianization, and repeasantization are documented. Deagrarianization is identified as the result of either adaptive or maladaptive processes of livelihood diversification out of agriculture. Repeasantization is characterized by the widespread adoption of low external‐input agriculture driven by cultural norms of self‐sufficiency and labour flexibility within farm households. In order to ensure equitability and the continued viability of rural households in communities ravaged by commodity deregulation, aid and training need to be targeted towards resource‐poor households in two principal areas: first, to transition off‐farm livelihoods into stable and high return activities and, second, to provide the agroecological knowledge and resources for farming households to self‐provision and distantiate themselves from the market.