bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Niche shift can impair the ability to predict invasion risk in the marine realm: an illustration using Mediterranean fish invaders
Authors: Parravicini Valeriano , Azzurro Ernesto , Kulbicki Michel , Belmaker Jonathan
Published: January 2015

Climatic niche conservatism, the tendency of species‐climate associations to remain unchanged across space and time, is pivotal for forecasting the spread of invasive species and biodiversity changes. Indeed, it represents one of the key assumptions underlying species distribution models (SDMs), the main tool currently available for predicting range shifts of species. However, to date, no comprehensive assessment of niche conservatism is available for the marine realm. We use the invasion by Indo‐Pacific tropical fishes into the Mediterranean Sea, the world's most invaded marine basin, to examine the conservatism of the climatic niche. We show that tropical invaders may spread far beyond their native niches and that SDMs do not predict their new distributions better than null models. Our results suggest that SDMs may underestimate the potential spread of invasive species and call for prudence in employing these models in order to forecast species invasion and their response to environmental change.
The role of head computed tomography in equine practice
Authors: Manso‐Díaz G. , García‐López J. M. , Maranda L. , Taeymans O.
Published: January 2015

This retrospective study describes the computed tomography (CT) findings in 59 horses presented with diseases of the head over 8 years that underwent CT examination of this region, including dental or sinonasal diseases (Group A) (n = 42), osseous and/or articular diseases (Group B) (n = 11) and soft tissue diseases (Group C) (n = 6). For Group A, radiographic and CT findings comparison was possible. Computed tomography had higher sensitivity (100%) and specificity (96.7%) than radiography in diagnosing dental disease. Compared to CT, radiographic identification of sinus involvement was less sensitive, particularly for ventral conchal and sphenopalatine sinuses and presented an overall sensitivity of 43.5 and 16.7%, respectively. In Group B CT allowed identification of a higher number of bone fragments and fractures in the maxillary, lacrimal, sphenoidal, temporal and zygomatic bones not identified radiographically. Accurate identification of CT changes in the temporomandibular joint and temporohyoid articulation was also possible. Group C included both intra‐ and extra‐cranial disease, retrobulbar masses being the most representative pathology (n = 3). In this group, CT was considered the gold standard for detection of periorbital diseases. We conclude that CT is an imaging technique with high diagnostic value for evaluating the equine head, yielding additional information over multiple radiographic views, which may alter the outcome of the case. Additionally, this paper reports several conditions not previously described using CT.
Pseudo‐polydactyly in a horse
Authors: Valbonetti L. , Briola C. , Tosi U. , Marruchella G. , Muttini A.
Published: January 2015

A 14‐month‐old half‐breed horse showed a severe lameness due to a lesion of the right forefoot which appeared completely and asymmetrically cleaved, from the solar margin to the coronary band. The horse was presented to an abattoir for slaughter and both forelimbs were collected for diagnostic investigations. The hoof lesion described herein does not fulfil the diagnostic criteria of equine polydactyly since post mortem imaging and pathological investigations ruled out the presence of supernumerary digits. Based on the clinical signs, diagnostic imaging (computed tomography) and gross examination, a diagnosis of pseudo‐polydactyly was proposed. To the best of our knowledge, the features of the present case report are unique, thus widening the range of lesions observed at the level of the hoof, which is crucial for horse health and activity.
Magnetic resonance imaging of an equine fracture model containing stainless steel metal implants
Authors: Pownder S. L. , Koff M. F. , Shah P. H. , Fortier L. A. , Potter H. G.
Published: January 2015

Reasons for performing study

Post operative imaging in subjects with orthopaedic implants is challenging across all modalities. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is preferred to assess human post operative musculoskeletal complications, as soft tissue and bones are evaluated without using ionising radiation. However, with conventional MRI pulse sequences, metal creates susceptibility artefact that distorts anatomy. Assessment of the post operative equine patient is arguably more challenging due to the volume of metal present, and MRI is often not performed in horses with implants. Novel pulse sequences such as multiacquisition variable resonance image combination (MAVRIC) now provide improved visibility in the vicinity of surgical‐grade implants and offer an option for imaging horses with metal implants.

Objectives

To compare conspicuity of regional anatomy in an equine fracture‐repair model using MAVRIC, narrow receiver bandwidth (NBW) fast spin echo (FSE), and wide receiver bandwidth (WBW) FSE sequences.

Study design

Nonrandomised in vitro experiment.

Methods

MAVRIC, NBW FSE and WBW FSE were performed on 9 cadaveric distal limbs with fractures and stainless steel implants in the third metacarpal bone and proximal phalanx. Objective measures of artefact reduction were performed by calculating the total artefact area in each transverse image as a percentage of the total anatomic area. The number of transverse images in which fracture lines were visible was tabulated for each sequence. Regional soft tissue conspicuity was assessed subjectively.

Results

Overall anatomic delineation was improved using MAVRIC compared with NBW FSE; delineation of structures closest to the metal implants was improved using MAVRIC compared with WBW FSE and NBW FSE. Total artefact area was the highest for NBW FSE and lowest for MAVRIC; the total number of transverse slices with a visible fracture line was highest in MAVRIC and lowest in NBW FSE.

Conclusion

MAVRIC and WBW FSE are feasible additions to minimise artefact around implants.
Central administration of GPR55 receptor agonist and antagonist modulates anxiety‐related behaviors in rats
Authors: Rahimi Abbasali , Hajizadeh Moghaddam Akbar , Roohbakhsh Ali
Published: January 2015

G‐protein‐coupled receptor 55 (GPR55) has been proposed as an atypical cannabinoid receptor, which is activated by lysophosphatidylinositols and some synthetic or endogenous cannabinoid molecules. The exact role of GPR55 receptors in the central nervous system especially in anxiety needs to be evaluated. In this study, the effects of intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) administration of agonist and antagonist of GPR55 receptor on anxiety‐related behaviors in rats were investigated. Here, O‐1602 (GPR55 agonist) at the doses of 0.2, 1, and 5 μg/rat increased %OAT and %OAE but not the locomotor activity, showing an anxiolytic response, whereas i.c.v. injection of ML193 (GPR55 antagonist) at the doses of 0.1 and 1 μg/rat increased anxiety‐like behaviors while causing locomotor impairment. The antagonistic effect of ML193 on the anxiolytic‐like effect of O‐1602 was also evaluated. The results showed that ML193 decreased the anxiolytic‐like effect of O‐1602. Based on these results, it may be concluded that central GPR55 may have a role in modulation of anxiety‐like behaviors in rats. Further experiments are needed to elucidate the exact role of these receptors in anxiety.
Enhancement on reactive oxygen species and COX‐1 mRNA levels modulate the vascular relaxation induced by sodium nitroprusside in denuded mice aorta
Authors: Kangussu Lucas M. , Olivon Vania C. , Arifa Raquel D. do N. , Araújo Natália , Reis Daniela , Assis Marieta T. de A. , Soriani Frederico M. , de Souza Daniele da G. , Bendhack Lusiane M. , Bonaventura Daniella
Published: January 2015

This study aimed to investigate the modulation of nitric oxide/reactive oxygen species in sodium nitroprusside relaxation in mice aorta. Sodium nitroprusside induced relaxation in endothelium‐intact (e+) and endothelium‐denuded (e−) aortas with greater potency in e+ than in e−. The nitric oxide synthase inhibitor did not alter the sodium nitroprusside relaxation in both e+ and e− aortas. However, the superoxide anion scavenger abolished the difference in sodium nitroprusside potency between e+ and e−. Sodium nitroprusside reduced dihydroethidium‐derived fluorescent products in both groups; however, the difference between intact and denuded mice aorta remains. The glutathione levels and basal antioxidant activity of superoxide dismutase were reduced in e− aorta when compared with e+, and these values were not altered by sodium nitroprusside. Confirming these results, the levels of lipid peroxidation in e+ were significantly lower when compared to e−, and these values were not altered by sodium nitroprusside. The sodium nitroprusside potency in the presence of a nonselective COX inhibitor or the EP/DP prostaglandin receptor antagonist in endothelium denuded was similar to that in intact mice aorta. Based on these results, we performed the COX‐1 and COX‐2 mRNA level studies, and in denuded mice aorta, there was an upregulation in COX‐1 mRNA levels. Taken together, our findings show that in the absence of endothelium, there is an enhancement of superoxide levels, leading to GSH consumption and higher levels of lipid peroxidation, showing an intense redox status. Furthermore, in denuded mice aorta, there was an upregulation of COX‐1 mRNA expression, leading to vasoconstrictor prostanoids synthesis. The interaction of vasoconstrictor prostanoids with its receptors EP/DP negatively modulates the vascular relaxation induced by SNP in denuded mice aorta.
Cytokine‐induced macropinocytosis in macrophages is regulated by 14‐3‐3ζ through its interaction with serine‐phosphorylated coronin 1
Authors: BoseDasgupta Somdeb , Moes Suzette , Jenoe Paul , Pieters Jean
Published: January 2015

The induction of macropinocytosis in macrophages during an inflammatory response is important for clearance of pathogenic microbes as well as the generation of appropriate immune responses. Recent data suggest that cytokine stimulation of macrophages induces macropinocytosis through phosphorylation of the protein coronin 1, thereby redistributing coronin 1 from the cell cortex to the cytoplasm followed by the activation of phosphoinositol‐3 (PI‐3) kinase. However, how coronin 1 phosphorylation regulates these processes remains unclear. We here define an essential role for 14‐3‐3ζ in cytokine‐induced and coronin‐1‐dependent macropinocytosis in macrophages. We found that, upon stimulation, phosphorylated coronin 1 transiently associated with 14‐3‐3ζ and receptor of activated C kinase 1 (RACK1). Importantly, downregulation of 14‐3‐3ζ, but not RACK1, prevented relocation of coronin 1, as well as the induction of PI‐3 kinase activity and thereby macropinocytosis upon cytokine stimulation. Together these data define an essential role for 14‐3‐3ζ in the regulation of macropinocytosis in macrophages upon cytokine stimulation through modulation of the localization of coronin 1.
Crystal structures of apo‐DszC and FMN‐bound DszC from Rhodococcus erythropolis D‐1
Authors: Guan Li‐Jun , Lee Woo Cheol , Wang Shipeng , Ohshiro Takashi , Izumi Yoshikazu , Ohtsuka Jun , Tanokura Masaru
Published: January 2015

The release of SO2 from petroleum products derived from crude oil, which contains sulfur compounds such as dibenzothiophene (DBT), leads to air pollution. The ‘4S’ metabolic pathway catalyzes the sequential conversion of DBT to 2‐hydroxybiphenyl via three enzymes encoded by the dsz operon in several bacterial species. DszC (DBT monooxygenase), from Rhodococcus erythropolis D‐1 is involved in the first two steps of the ‘4S’ pathway. Here, we determined the first crystal structure of FMN‐bound DszC, and found that two distinct conformations occur in the loop region (residues 131–142) adjacent to the active site. On the basis of the DszC–FMN structure and the previously reported apo structures of DszC homologs, the binding site for DBT and DBT sulfoxide is proposed.

Database

The atomic coordinates and structure factors for apo‐DszC (PDB code: 3X0X) and DszC‐FMN (PDB code: 3X0Y) have been deposited in the Protein Data Bank (http://www.rcsb.org).
Do Sardinella aurita spawning seasons match local retention patterns in the Senegalese–Mauritanian upwelling region?
Authors: Mbaye Baye Cheikh , Brochier Timothée , Echevin Vincent , Lazar Alban , Lévy Marina , Mason Evan , Gaye Amadou Thierno , Machu Eric
Published: January 2015

Sardinella aurita is the most abundant small pelagic fish in the Senegalese–Mauritanian region. The success of its reproduction crucially depends on the local circulation as this determines whether larvae reach coastal nursery areas favorable to their survival or are dispersed into the open ocean. As a first step towards evaluating sardinella vulnerability to climate‐driven hydrodynamical changes, this study aims at underpinning how transport pathways drive optimal spatial and seasonal patterns for sardinella reproduction. We have used two estimates of the Senegalese–Mauritanian coastal seasonal circulation simulated by two hydrodynamical model configurations that differ in their forcing and topography. Nursery areas are determined by evaluating coastal retention with a Lagrangian individual‐based model that accounts for processes such as diel vertical migration and mortality as a result of lethal temperature exposure. Our results suggest that the shelf zones located at the Arguin Bank (19.5°N–21°N) and south of Senegal (12°N–14.75°N) are highly retentive. We find maximum retention rates in July–August and November–December over the Arguin Bank; from February–July and November–December over the southern Senegalese shelf; and lower retention rates over the central region (14.75°N–19.5°N) that are locally maximum in June–July when the upwelling weakens. These retention areas and their seasonality are in agreement with previously reported spawning patterns, suggesting that the Sardinella aurita spawning strategy may result from a trade‐off between retention patterns associated with the seasonal circulation and food availability. Exposure to lethal temperatures, although not well studied, could be a further limiting factor for spawning. The Lagrangian analysis reveals important connectivity between sub‐regions within and south of the system and hence underlines the importance for joint management of the Sardinella aurita stock.
Tree growth variation in the tropical forest: understanding effects of temperature, rainfall and CO2
Authors: Schippers Peter , Sterck Frank , Vlam Mart , Zuidema Pieter A.
Published: January 2015

Tropical forest responses to climatic variability have important consequences for global carbon cycling, but are poorly understood. As empirical, correlative studies cannot disentangle the interactive effects of climatic variables on tree growth, we used a tree growth model (IBTREE) to unravel the climate effects on different physiological pathways and in turn on stem growth variation. We parameterized the model for canopy trees of Toona ciliata (Meliaceae) from a Thai monsoon forest and compared predicted and measured variation from a tree‐ring study over a 30‐year period. We used historical climatic variation of minimum and maximum day temperature, precipitation and carbon dioxide (CO2) in different combinations to estimate the contribution of each climate factor in explaining the inter‐annual variation in stem growth. Running the model with only variation in maximum temperature and rainfall yielded stem growth patterns that explained almost 70% of the observed inter‐annual variation in stem growth. Our results show that maximum temperature had a strong negative effect on the stem growth by increasing respiration, reducing stomatal conductance and thus mitigating a higher transpiration demand, and – to a lesser extent – by directly reducing photosynthesis. Although stem growth was rather weakly sensitive to rain, stem growth variation responded strongly and positively to rainfall variation owing to the strong inter‐annual fluctuations in rainfall. Minimum temperature and atmospheric CO2 concentration did not significantly contribute to explaining the inter‐annual variation in stem growth. Our innovative approach – combining a simulation model with historical data on tree‐ring growth and climate – allowed disentangling the effects of strongly correlated climate variables on growth through different physiological pathways. Similar studies on different species and in different forest types are needed to further improve our understanding of the sensitivity of tropical tree growth to climatic variability and change.
The influence of temperature seasonality on elevational range size across latitude: a test usingLiolaemuslizards
Authors: Sheldon Kimberly S. , Leaché Adam D. , Cruz Félix B.
Published: January 2015

Aim

Identifying factors that limit species distributions is a fundamental question in ecology with implications for understanding global biodiversity patterns and species responses to environmental change. Theory suggests that temperature seasonality may affect range size. Species at higher latitudes and elevations experience greater temperature variation, which should lead to broader thermal tolerances and elevational ranges. Research suggests that realized seasonality, or the seasonality species experience when active, may be a better predictor of distributions than annual seasonality. We tested the seasonality hypothesis by examining relationships between environmental factors and elevational range.

Location

Argentina.

Methods

We gathered data on ecology and thermal physiology for 33Liolaemuslizards (Liolaemidae) and analysed data in phylogenetic comparative analyses using mitochondrialDNAsequences. We used 1000 tree structures and ran phylogenetic generalized least squares analyses on all 33 species and on 23 species in theboulengericlade to determine if the elevational range of lizards shows a positive relationship with annual and realized seasonality, thermal tolerance, latitude and elevational midpoint of the species distribution.

Results

Latitude and elevational midpoint were good predictors of elevational range in all models. Annual seasonality was a good predictor of elevational range in models containing 33 species. Variation in phylogenetic tree structure led to differences in the best‐fit statistical models. Thermal tolerance and realized seasonality were not good indicators of elevational range.

Main conclusions

Our findings support some, but not all, of the predictions of the seasonality hypothesis. Species at higher latitudes and elevations have larger elevational ranges, and annual seasonality is partly responsible for this increase. Yet, adult thermal tolerance shows no relationship with elevational range, suggesting that distributions may depend on the physiology of otherLiolaemuslife stages. Differences in phylogenetic tree structure and the number of species included in analyses can lead to different conclusions regarding the seasonality hypothesis.
Has the advancing onset of spring vegetation green‐up slowed down or changed abruptly over the last three decades?
Authors: Wang Xuhui , Piao Shilong , Xu Xiangtao , Ciais Philippe , MacBean Natasha , Myneni Ranga B. , Li Laurent
Published: January 2015

Aim

Change in spring phenology is a sensitive indicator of ecosystem response to climate change, and exerts first‐order control on the ecosystem carbon and hydrological cycles. The start of season (SOS) in spring can be estimated from satellite data using different spatiotemporal scales, data sets and algorithms. To address the impacts of these differences on trends of SOS, a Bayesian analysis is applied to investigate the rate of SOS advance and whether that advance has slowed down or changed abruptly over the last three decades.

Location

30°–75° N in the Northern Hemisphere.

Methods

We applied four algorithms to three different satellite data sets (AVHRR, Terra‐MODIS and SPOT) to obtain an ensemble of SOS estimates. A Bayesian analysis was applied to test different hypotheses of SOS trends.

Results

Over the period 1982–2011, SOS is likely (74%) to have experienced a significant advance best described by a linear trend (−1.4 ± 0.6 days decade−1). At hemispheric and continental scales, deceleration or abrupt changes in the SOS trend are unlikely (< 30%) to have occurred. Trend analysis restricted to the last decade suggests no significant SOS advance since 2000. This lack of trend can be explained by large interannual variations of SOS and uncertainties in SOS extraction, in the context of a short‐term decadal‐period analysis. Spatial analyses show that SOS advance could have slowed down over parts of western North America, and the SOS trend could have abruptly changed over parts of Canada and Siberia.

Main conclusions

SOS advance is unlikely to have slowed down or changed abruptly at a hemispheric scale over the last three decades. At a regional scale, SOS advance could have slowed down or abruptly changed due to changes in winter chilling or fire regimes. Trends of SOS derived from different satellites were within the uncertainties of SOS extraction.
Landscape Design, Housing and Everyday Use of Green Space in Urban China
Authors: Xie Junfang
Published: January 2015

In this paper, I discuss historic and contemporary relationships between landscape design, housing and everyday uses of green space in urban China. By drawing together writing focused on theorizing nature and everyday life, I offer critical insights into urban political, economic, social and cultural change in Chinese cities. The paper begins with a review of religious philosophies and cultural traditions relating to the development of Chinese gardens and then discusses the impact of the introduction of ‘western’ style public parks alongside the emergence of modern urban planning and design. The second half of the paper traces how changing notions of nature and everyday life can be mapped onto housing development and associated urban social and spatial inequalities. In conclusion, I highlight how critical insights at the intersection of thinking on nature and everyday life can inform socially progressive urban development, planning and policy.
Assemblages and Actor‐networks: Rethinking Socio‐material Power, Politics and Space
Authors: Müller Martin
Published: January 2015

Assemblage thinking and actor‐network theory (ANT) have been at the forefront of a paradigm shift that sees space and agency as the result of associating humans and non‐humans to form precarious wholes. This shift offers ways of rethinking the relations between power, politics and space from a more processual, socio‐material perspective. After sketching and comparing the concepts of the assemblage and the actor‐network, this paper reviews the current scholarship in human geography which clusters around the four themes of deterritorialisation/reterritorialisation; power; materials, objects and technologies; and topological space. Looking towards the future, it suggests that assemblage thinking and ANT would benefit from exploring links with other social theories, arguing for a more sustained engagement with issues of language and power, and affect and the body.
Self‐Employment as a Strategy for Dealing with the Competing Demands of Work and Family? The Importance of Family/Lifestyle Motives
Authors: Johansson Sevä Ingemar , Öun Ida
Published: January 2015

In this paper, we test the argument that self‐employment may be a strategy for dealing with competing demands of work and family. We do this by comparing work–family conflict experienced by self‐employed and employed men and women. By examining to what extent the self‐employed versus regularly employed value time for themselves and their family — i.e., whether they are driven by family/lifestyle motives in their working life — we examine whether self‐employment can help reduce work–family conflict among those guided by family/lifestyle motives. Using data from a 2011 Swedish survey of 2483 self‐employed and 2642 regularly employed, the analyses indicate that experiences of work–family conflict differ between self‐employed and employees. Self‐employed men and women, especially those with employees, generally experience more work–family conflict than do employees. However, self‐employment can sometimes be a strategy for dealing with competing demands of work and family life. The presence of family/lifestyle motives generally decreases the probability of experiencing work–family conflict, particularly among self‐employed women with employees.
Mouse Models for Assessing the Protective Efficacy of Lactobacillus gasseri SBT2055 against Helicobacter suis Infection Associated with the Development of Gastric Mucosa‐Associated Lymphoid Tissue Lymphoma
Authors: Matsui Hidenori , Takahashi Tetsufumi , Øverby Anders , Murayama Somay Yamagata , Yoshida Haruno , Yamamoto Yuji , Nishiyama Keita , Seto Yasuyuki , Takahashi Takashi , Mukai Takao , Nakamura Masahiko
Published: January 2015

Background

Helicobacter suis strain TKY infection has been strongly associated with the development of gastric mucosa‐associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma in a C57BL/6J mouse model.

Materials and Methods

1. C57BL/6J mice were intragastrically administered Lactobacillus strains once daily with 108–109 colony‐forming units (CFU), starting 2 days before intragastric infection with H. suis TKY (approximately 1 × 104 copies of 16S rRNA genes) or H. pylori Sydney strain 1 (SS1; 3 × 108 CFU) and continuing for 14 days after infection. 2. C57BL/6J mice were given powdered feed mixed with lyophilized L. gasseri SBT2055 (LG2055) cells (5 × 108 CFU/g), starting 2 weeks before intragastric infection with H. suis TKY and continuing 12 months after infection.

Results

1. Among the 5 Lactobacillus strains that we examined, only LG2055 exhibited significantly preventive efficacy against both H. suis TKY and H. pylori SS1 at day 15 after infection. 2. Dietary supplementation with LG2055 protected mice from the formation of round protrusive lesions in the gastric fundus 12 months after infection with H. suis TKY, whereas such lesions had developed in the gastric fundus of nonsupplemented mice 12 months after infection. In addition, the formation of lymphoid follicles in gastric mucus layers was suppressed by dietary LG2055 at 3 months after infection.

Conclusions

LG2055 administration is effective for suppressing the progression of gastric MALT lymphoma by reducing H. suis colonization.
Pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia mimicking invasive squamous cell carcinoma in extranodal natural killer/T‐cell lymphoma: a report of 34 cases
Authors: Ling Yi‐Hong , Zhu Chong‐Mei , Wen Shi‐Hong , Luo Rong‐Zhen , Li Peng , Cao Yun , Rao Hui‐Lan , Lin Su‐Xia , Cai Mu‐Yan
Published: January 2015

Aims

Pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia (PEH) is defined as a pattern of epidermal reaction. However, it has not yet been extensively documented in extranodal natural killer/T‐cell lymphoma (ENKTL). The aim of our study was to analyse a series of ENKTLs concomitant with PEH mimicking squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).

Methods and results

We analysed 34 cases of ENKTL with PEH. In our study, the incidence of PEH was 3.8% in ENKTLs diagnosed over a 13‐year period. All 34 cases presented with PEH, appearing as tongue‐like projections of squamous epithelium into the underlying submucosa/dermis with variable depths and jagged borders. The keratinocytes sometimes showed a minor degree of cytological atypia, mostly in the stratum basale, and keratinocyte necrosis was absent. Atypical mitoses and a high nuclear/cytoplasmic ratio were absent. The submucosa and the squamous cell cords were also permeated by atypical lymphocytes.

Conclusions

ENKTL can be associated with PEH, and the atypical lymphoid cell population can be highly subtle, and therefore may be easily mistaken for SCC, leading to inappropriate therapy. A correct diagnosis requires awareness and recognition of this pitfall by recognizing the associated conditions listed above, which distinguish PEH from SCC.
Handling and reporting of orchidectomy specimens with testicular cancer: areas of consensus and variation among 25 experts and 225 European pathologists
Authors: Berney Daniel M , Algaba Ferran , Amin Mahul , Delahunt Brett , Compérat Eva , Epstein Jonathan I , Humphrey Peter , Idrees Mohammed , Lopez‐Beltran Antonio , Magi‐Galluzzi Cristina , Mikuz Gregor , Montironi Rodolfo , Oliva Esther , Srigley John , Reuter Victor E , Trpkov Kiril , Ulbright Thomas M , Varma Murali , Verrill Clare , Young Robert H , Zhou Ming , Egevad Lars
Published: January 2015

Aims

The handling and reporting of testicular tumours is difficult due to their rarity.

Methods and results

A survey developed by the European Network of Uro‐Pathology (ENUP) and sent to its members and experts to assess the evaluation of testicular germ cell tumours. Twenty‐five experts and 225 ENUP members replied. Areas of disagreement included immaturity in teratomas, reported by 32% of experts but 68% of ENUP. Although the presence of rete testis invasion was reported widely, the distinction between pagetoid and stromal invasion was made by 96% of experts but only 63% of ENUP. Immunohistochemistry was used in more than 50% of cases by 68% of ENUP and 12% of experts. Staging revealed the greatest areas of disagreement. Invasion of the tunica vaginalis without vascular invasion was interpreted as T1 by 52% of experts and 67% of ENUP, but T2 by the remainder. Tumour invading the hilar adipose tissue adjacent to the epididymis without vascular invasion was interpreted as T1: 40% of experts, 43% of ENUP; T2: 36% of experts, 30% of ENUP; and T3: 24% of experts, 27% of ENUP.

Conclusions

There is remarkable consensus in many areas of testicular pathology. Significant areas of disagreement included staging and reporting of histological types, both of which have the potential to impact on therapy.
Lymph node granulomas in immunoglobulin G4‐related disease
Authors: Bateman Adrian C , Ashton‐Key Margaret R , Jogai Sanjay
Published: January 2015

Aims

Immunoglobulin (Ig)G4‐related disease (IgG4‐RD) is an increasingly recognized fibroinflammatory condition that commonly exhibits multisystem involvement, with localized (e.g. inflammatory pseudotumours that can mimic malignancy) or diffuse (leading to organ dysfunction) patterns of tissue involvement. The 2012 Boston criteria have standardized the histopathological approach to the diagnosis of IgG4‐RD and require one or more of the cardinal morphological features with prominence of IgG4+ plasma cells and an IgG4+/IgG+ plasma cell ratio of at least 40%. The relative prevalence of the morphological criteria varies between anatomical sites, but granulomas are rarely found and, indeed, their presence would usually deter a pathologist from making this diagnosis. The aim was to characterize two cases of IgG4‐RD in which granulomas were present and to highlight this as an unusual feature of the condition.

Methods and results

We describe two cases in which the features of IgG4‐RD were present within lymph nodes, together with granulomas. This is a recognized but rare morphological pattern of IgG4‐RD.

Conclusions

While an unusual finding, the presence of granulomas should not preclude a diagnosis of IgG4‐RD in the appropriate clinicopathological context.
Quality of nursing doctoral education in seven countries: survey of faculty and students/graduates
Authors: Kim Mi Ja , Park Chang Gi , McKenna Hugh , Ketefian Shake , Park So Hyun , Klopper Hester , Lee Hyeonkyeong , Kunaviktikul Wipada , Gregg Misuzu F. , Daly John , Coetzee Siedine , Juntasopeepun Phanida , Murashima Sachiyo , Keeney Sinead , Khan Shaheen
Published: January 2015

Aims

This study aimed to compare the findings of the quality of nursing doctoral education survey across seven countries and discuss the strategic directions for improving quality.

Background

No comparative evaluation of global quality of nursing doctoral education has been reported to date despite the rapid increase in the number of nursing doctoral programmes.

Design

A descriptive, cross‐country, comparative design was employed.

Methods

Data were collected from 2007–2010 from nursing schools in seven countries: Australia, Japan, Korea, South Africa, Thailand, UK and USA. An online questionnaire was used to evaluate quality of nursing doctoral education except for Japan, where a paper version was used. Korea and South Africa used e‐mails quality of nursing doctoral education was evaluated using four domains: Programme, Faculty (referring to academic staff), Resource and Evaluation. Descriptive statistics, correlational and ordinal logistic regression were employed.

Results

A total of 105 deans/schools, 414 faculty and 1149 students/graduates participated. The perceptions of faculty and students/graduates about the quality of nursing doctoral education across the seven countries were mostly favourable on all four domains. The faculty domain score had the largest estimated coefficient for relative importance. As the overall quality level of doctoral education rose from fair to good, the resource domain showed an increased effect.

Conclusions

Both faculty and students/graduates groups rated the overall quality of nursing doctoral education favourably. The faculty domain had the greatest importance for quality, followed by the programme domain. However, the importance of the resource domain gained significance as the overall quality of nursing doctoral education increased, indicating the needs for more attention to resources if the quality of nursing doctoral education is to improve.
Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy Delivered Via a Multipolar Left Ventricular Lead is Associated with Reduced Mortality and Elimination of Phrenic Nerve Stimulation: Long‐Term Follow‐Up from a Multicenter Registry
Authors: BEHAR JONATHAN M. , BOSTOCK JULIAN , ZHU LI ADRIAN PO , CHIN HUI MEN SELINA , JUBB STEPHEN , LENT EDWARD , GAMBLE JAMES , FOLEY PAUL W.X. , BETTS TIM R. , RINALDI CHRISTOPHER ALDO , HERRING NEIL
Published: January 2015

Lower Mortality and Eliminated PNS Associated with Quadripolar Leads

Introduction

Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) using quadripolar left ventricular (LV) leads provides more pacing vectors compared to bipolar leads. This may avoid phrenic nerve stimulation (PNS) and allow optimal lead placement to maximize biventricular pacing. However, a long‐term improvement in patient outcome has yet to be demonstrated.

Methods

A total of 721 consecutive patients with conventional CRTD criteria implanted with quadripolar (n = 357) or bipolar (n = 364) LV leads were enrolled into a registry at 3 UK centers. Lead performance and mortality was analyzed over a 5‐year period.

Results

Patients receiving a quadripolar lead were of similar age and sex to those receiving a bipolar lead, although a lower proportion had ischemic heart disease (62.6% vs. 54.1%, P = 0.02). Both groups had similar rates of procedural success, although lead threshold, impedance, and procedural radiation dose were significantly lower in those receiving a quadripolar lead. PNS was more common in those with quadripolar leads (16.0% vs. 11.6%, P = 0.08), but was eliminated by switching pacing vector in all cases compared with 60% in the bipolar group (P < 0.001). Furthermore, LV lead displacement (1.7% vs. 4.6%, P = 0.03) and repositioning (2.0% vs. 5.2%, P = 0.03) occurred significantly less often in those with a quadripolar lead. All‐cause mortality was also significantly lower in the quadripolar compared to bipolar lead group in univariate and multivariate analysis (13.2% vs. 22.5%, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

In a large, multicenter experience, the use of quadripolar LV leads for CRT was associated with elimination of PNS and lower overall mortality. This has important implications for LV pacing lead choice.
Irritability in boys with autism spectrum disorders: an investigation of physiological reactivity
Authors: Mikita Nina , Hollocks Matthew J. , Papadopoulos Andrew S. , Aslani Alexandra , Harrison Simon , Leibenluft Ellen , Simonoff Emily , Stringaris Argyris
Published: January 2015

Background

Irritability in people with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is common and impairing, yet its mechanisms remain understudied. We investigated symptom reporting and mechanisms of irritability in ASD, focusing on the relation between irritability and physiological stress responses.

Methods

Forty‐seven unmedicated boys with high‐functioning ASD (hfASD) and 23 typically developing boys aged 10–16 years completed a psychosocial stress test. Changes in cortisol, heart rate and heart rate variability throughout the test were recorded. Self‐ and parent‐reported measures of irritability were obtained. Irritability symptom reporting in the hfASD group was compared to two groups of boys without ASD: highly irritable boys (severe mood dysregulation, SMD; n = 40) and healthy‐control boys (HC; n = 30).

Results

Boys with hfASD scored significantly higher on irritability than HC boys, and they reported a pattern of irritability symptoms closely resembling that of boys with SMD. The internal consistency of irritability in hfASD was high by parent‐ and self‐report. Although boys with hfASD showed significant stress‐induced changes in cortisol and heart rate, those who rated themselves as highly irritable had lower cortisol levels throughout the test compared to those low on irritability. Participants rated as highly irritable by their parents showed blunted cortisol and heart rate responses to stress. The effects of irritability on heart rate, but not cortisol, were accounted for by trait anxiety.

Conclusions

Irritability can be measured reliably in hfASD and is associated with distinct biological responses to stress.
Co‐existence of psoriasis and melanoma in a large urban academic centre population: a cross‐sectional retrospective study
Authors: Bhattacharya T. , Nardone B. , Rademaker A. , Martini M. , Amin A. , Al‐Mudaimeagh H.M. , Kiguradze T. , Schneider D. , West D.P.
Published: January 2015

Background

Psoriasis has been linked to increased malignancy risk, particularly lympho‐haematopoietic and non‐melanoma skin cancers; however, its association with cutaneous melanoma remains unclear.

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine if there is an association between melanoma and psoriasis in a large, urban academic population through an electronic medical record database.

Methods

We searched our institution's electronic medical record database (EDW‐Electronic Data Warehouse) from 1/2001 to 11/2013. Subjects were identified by ICD‐9 codes. Melanoma diagnosis was included only if documented at least 1 month after the psoriasis diagnosis was documented. Odds ratio (OR) was obtained for association between cutaneous melanoma and psoriasis. The OR was then adjusted for phototherapy and age. To minimize detection bias, we also obtained the OR for association between cutaneous melanoma and atopic dermatitis.

Results

We identified 10 947 patients with psoriasis, 64 of whom had a subsequent diagnosis of cutaneous melanoma. We detected a significant association between melanoma and psoriasis (OR = 1.77; 95%CI 1.38–2.26; P < 0.0001; total n = 1 525 252). After adjusting for phototherapy and age, a statistically significant association between melanoma and psoriasis remained detectable (OR = 1.9; 95%CI 1.55–2.55; P < 0.0001 and OR = 1.64; 95%CI 1.17–2.26; P = 0.003 respectively). The OR for melanoma with atopic dermatitis in the same patient database showed a statistically significant inverse association between the two diseases (OR = 0.35; 95%CI 0.16–0.73; P = 0.005).

Conclusion

Our findings show a statistically significant association between psoriasis and melanoma. After adjusting the OR for phototherapy and age, a statistically significant association remained. Further investigations exploring these associations are warranted in order to establish the relative risk for melanoma in psoriasis patients.
A Preliminary Study on Whether the Soluble Solid Content and Acidity of Oranges Predicted by Near Infrared Spectroscopy Meet the Sensory Degustation
Authors: Yuan Lei‐ming , Sun Li , Cai Jian‐rong , Lin Hao
Published: January 2015

Internal qualities of fruit, such as soluble solid content (SSC) and acidity, were mostly used to reflect people's sensory preference. Those indexes have been noninvasively measured by near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy over the past years. However, limited attentions have been given on whether the result of NIR spectroscopy detection can meet the sensory requirement of the consumers. In this research, NIR measurement and the sensory test were carried out on oranges to assay the answer. Multivariate analyses with several pretreatments were comparatively employed to calibrate a robust model on the basis of NIR spectra. The optimal partial least squares model was obtained with root mean square error of prediction of 0.613 for SSC, and 0.17 for acidity. The sensory test was investigated by well‐trained panelists to explore the sensory threshold, which had a root mean square error of deviation of 0.771 for SSC, as well as 0.203 for acidity. Results showed that the noninvasive method of NIR usage was acceptable with fewer root mean square error of prediction value than sensory threshold. This preliminary study revealed that an accurate and fast method by NIR spectrometer coupled with proper chemometric on oranges could meet the requirement of sensory taste.

Practical Applications

Over the last decades, internal qualities of fruit have been noninvasively detected by NIR spectroscopy, but limited attentions have been given on whether the result of NIR detection can meet the sensory requirement of the consumers. A noninvasive NIR determination method should be deserving of its purpose that can at least meet the sensory taste. In this work, we examined whether the result of NIR application can meet the sensory taste for oranges. The sensory threshold was analyzed and compared with the proposed NIR model, which was simple and robust. It is of great importance to choose a proper NIR model resulting in not only covering the sensory degustation, but also low‐cost and fast detection in the practical implementation. This research will be a good reference for screening and grading of food control or process.
Modified Gelatin Films from Croaker Skins: Effects of pH, and Addition of Glycerol and Chitosan
Authors: Bandeira Sidney Fernandes , da Silva Roberto de Souza Gomes , de Moura Jaqueline Motta , de Almeida Pinto Luiz Antonio
Published: January 2015

This work evaluated the effects of pH (3, 4 and 5) and addition of glycerol (10, 20 and 30%, w/w) in films of gelatin extracted from croaker skins, and afterward modified by chitosan. The gelatin films were produced by casting technique. The chitosan additions (10, 20 and 30% w/w) in relation to the gelatin films were analyzed. Films were characterized as tensile strength (TS), elongation, water vapor permeability (WVP) and optical properties (color, color variation and opacity). Gelatins were characterized for gel strength (221 g) and viscosity (3.7 cP), and chitosan was obtained from shells of shrimp and characterized (150 kDa and deacetylation degree of 85%). The gelatin film with 10% (w/w) glycerol and pH 4 showed the best TS value and suitable WVP value. The amount of chitosan of 10% (w/w) added to the gelatin film on the best conditions produced the modified films with the best properties of TS and WVP.

Practical Applications

Several types of biopolymeric films have been developed, combining proteins and polysaccharides, and among these, gelatin and chitosan take on homogeneous form because of miscibility between the two biopolymers. Improvements in the connection crossed in gelatin mixture with chitosan are attributed to the formation of polielectrolic compounds, among the groups of amino of the chitosan and of the groups of lateral chains charged negatively of the gelatin through electrostatic interaction. The study of the mechanical properties of the biodegradable films is a subject of great importance, because of its influence on the acting of the product and the consumer's acceptance. In this context, the intensification need is observed in the studies about the gelatin extraction starting from fish skins and its application in the production of pure and modified films with chitosan and plasticizer.
The Treatment of keloids and hypertrophic scars with intralesional bleomycin in skin of color
Authors: Payapvipapong Kittisak , Niumpradit Nucha , Piriyanand Chotinand , Buranaphalin Sawanya , Nakakes Artit
Published: January 2015

Intralesional injection with corticosteroid remains the mainstay of therapy for hypertrophic scars and keloids, however some lesions are unresponsive or may result in skin atrophy. Intralesional bleomycin injection is an alternative therapy that has been widely reported. In order to compare the effectiveness and safety of bleomycin for the treatment of keloids and hypertrophic scars in skin of color population, Fitzpatrick skin type III to V patients with keloids or hypertrophic scars were randomized into two groups. Group A was treated monthly with intralesional triamcinolone acetonide (10 mg/mL), while group B with intralesional bleomycin (1 mg/mL) for three consecutive months. Evaluation of the treatment was performed using “Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale” (POSAS), self‐rated patient satisfaction score, photography, and ultrasonography. Two patients had their bleomycin blood levels monitored. Twenty‐six patients with keloids or hypertrophic scars were recruited. The clinical improvement as assessed by the POSAS was not statistically significant. In terms of patients satisfaction score, one half of both groups reported a very good improvement. Photographic as well as ultrasonographic evaluation showed no difference between the two groups. Bleomycin was found to enter the blood circulation in a very small amount. The major side effect was hyperpigmentation. There was no skin atrophy detected in this study. Intralesional bleomycin is a safe and effective treatment for keloids and hypertrophic scars. The treatment is comparable to intralesional triamcinolone. Unfortunately, hyperpigmentation was the major side effect in darker skin type.