bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An auto-photographic study of undergraduate students’ conceptions of ocean sustainability
Authors: Lin Chi-I , Li Yuh-Yuh
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate students’ understandings of ocean sustainability and the pedagogical influence of higher education on those conceptions.

Design/methodology/approach

The conceptions of ocean sustainability of 54 university students of various academic disciplines enrolled in the 2014/2015 semester course “Sustainable Oceans” were assessed through use of auto-photography. Data were collected at the beginning and end of the course. Inter-rater reliability was measured by percentage of identical coding outcomes by two coders.

Findings

Auto-photography is effective in assessing notions of sustainability. Social and economic dimensions were captured less frequently than environmental aspects in the students’ photographs. Overall, students demonstrated vague perceptual awareness about who should take responsibility concerning lifeworld-related issues. Also, their perceptions were affected by their choice of academic discipline. Engaging students in inter-/transdisciplinary learning, integrating the arts, science and community, helped develop a more balanced, action-motivated conception of sustainability. Post-test patterns of change in students’ vision and action were observed.

Practical implications

Implementing sustainability education in a university’s coordinating bodies is effective in constructing a campus-based learning network, and participation in local community empowerment promotes a substantial and multidimensional concept of sustainability, and teaching material that includes content from the fine arts, literature or music stimulates students’ awareness of, and sensitivity to, lifeworld issues.

Originality/value

This paper provides an innovative, auto-photography-based methodology, including an operational procedure, coding book and method of analysis, for assessing students’ conceptions of sustainability. It also develops an interdisciplinary course that serves a “threshold” intervention role in ocean sustainability education.
Waste pickers in the informal economy of the Global South: included or excluded?
Authors: Coletto Diego , Bisschop Lieselot
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide insights into the role and practices of informal waste pickers and the implications for waste management policy in urban contexts of the Global South.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative case studies were used, including interviews, observations and document analyses. The authors compared informal waste management in two cities of the Global South: Accra (Ghana) and Porto Alegre (Brazil).

Findings

The analysis points out that informal waste pickers play a crucial role in the implementation of waste policies in both cities, despite differing economic, social and institutional contexts. The study of the waste management system also points to multiple connections between informal and formal parts of the economy. Although the informal waste pickers are integral to the waste management systems, their economically disadvantaged position excludes them from the formal labour market. Faced with these challenges, they develop creative solutions to guarantee their livelihood and gain more effective collective voice.

Research limitations/implications

The comparison of two case studies, conducted about the same social phenomenon in two different economic, institutional and social contexts, has limited generalisability but is theoretically and practically important.

Practical implications

The findings are relevant to policy-makers who deal with urban waste management and for organisations who develop support actions for informal workers.

Originality/value

The authors draw on a comparison of qualitative case studies to explore the multidimensionality of the waste picker’s phenomenon. This paper sparks discussion among scholars and experts who study the informal economy from different perspectives, in this case bridging insights from sociology and victimology.
Why do Swedes use less cash-for-childcare than Norwegians?
Authors: Höppner Julia
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explain the rather large difference in the take-up of the cash-for-childcare (CFC) benefit between Norway and Sweden.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative approach is employed, including the analysis of descriptive statistics of data on parents’ attitudes concerning the distribution of paid work and care and a robust regression analysis of data on parents’ behaviour regarding the distribution of paid work and care.

Findings

The results show that attitudes regarding childcare and mothers’ and fathers’ employment differ in the two countries. Swedish parents support public childcare and a gender equal employment distribution more than Norwegians. Thereby, attitudinal differences explain why Norwegian parents use the benefit more frequently. The findings indicate that in Sweden, parents’ socioeconomic background affects the duration of public childcare to a lesser extent than in Norway. Nevertheless, the economic incentives of the CFC benefit are more attractive for families with lower socioeconomic status. This explains why Swedes respond less to the incentives of the CFC benefit than Norwegians.

Originality/value

While previous research has focussed on the effect of policies on the take-up of the CFC benefit, this study shows that parents’ attitudes and behaviour are important explanatory variables to explain differences in the take-up of the benefit.
Virtual reference librarians (Chatbots)
Authors: Vincze Joseph
Published: April 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to explore integrating chatbot applications into libraries to improve reference services.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper explores the benefits of using chatbots as virtual reference librarians. Emma the Mentor Public Library’s Catbot is used as a case study.

Findings

Chatbots cannot replicate the complexity of human interaction (both knowledge and emotional), but these can provide a cost-effective way to answer the majority of routine reference questions and direct users to the appropriate service.

Originality/value

Readers will increase their awareness of how chatbots can streamline the work of the reference department by answering the majority of routine reference questions and freeing library staff to focus on more demanding research and tasks uniquely suited to humans.
Virtual and augmented reality in libraries and the education sector
Authors: Oyelude Adetoun A.
Published: April 2017

Purpose

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are technologies gaining more ground, and their uses in libraries and for educational purposes are expanding.

Design/methodology/approach

Ethical and legal issues in the use of VR and AR are bound to arise in future if the technology is used for less-than-laudable functions.

Findings

For now, the Western world uses both technologies more, even though it is free and, in some cases, less expensive than before now.

Originality/value

It superimposes a computer-generated image on a user’s view of the real world, providing a composite view. Both technologies aim to make the user feel a sense of being there and experiencing what is being viewed in real time.
Emerging information standards and technologies: cataloging and metadata professionals’ perspectives
Authors: Park Jung ran , Tosaka Yuji
Published: April 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to report on the survey results relating to the current experience of cataloging and metadata professionals with emerging information standards and technologies, as well as the state of professional training and existing barriers to continuing education (CE) in these emerging areas.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents a quantitative analysis of the data collected in the online survey, supplemented with a qualitative analysis of some open-ended responses.

Findings

There was a wide interest in leveraging emerging Semantic Web and Linked Data approaches. Training activities on newer information standards and technologies were reported by more than half of the respondents. The survey data suggested the importance of increasing field-wide collaborations and institution- or organization-level support for professional development. Improving the discoverability of relevant CE resources and programs was also considered to be the key, as were affordability and the ability to incorporate ongoing learning into everyday practice.

Originality/value

There are currently no comprehensive studies or benchmarked data on how the existing CE system meets the needs of cataloging and metadata professionals. This study establishes a baseline for an understanding of their ongoing professional development preferences and requirements relating to new information standards and technologies.
The role of the marketing strategy process in the innovativeness-performance relationship of SMEs
Authors: Finoti Lucas , Didonet Simone Regina , Toaldo Ana Maria , Martins Tomás Sparano
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the mediating role of the marketing strategy process in the relationship between innovativeness and organizational performance in SMEs.

Design/methodology/approach

The partial least squares-structural equation modeling technique was used to analyze data from Brazilian SMEs that belong to the software sector. Innovativeness was considered as a cultural aspect of the firm, which is related to being open to new ideas. The marketing strategy process was analyzed considering its two dimensions, i.e., formulation and implementation of marketing strategies. Organizational performance included variables of market, financial and innovation performance.

Findings

The results show that innovativeness positively influences organizational performance through the marketing strategy process. Specifically, the formulation of marketing strategies mediates the relationship between innovativeness and organizational performance. Implementation by itself does not mediate this relationship. When considering the path formulation→implementation as mediator, the influence is positive, i.e., formulation positively influences the implementation of marketing strategies and this path mediates the relationship between innovativeness and organizational performance. Therefore, the mediating role is stronger when considering the formulation-implementation path than when taking into account the activities of the formulation and implementation of marketing strategies separately.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by discussing how innovativeness influences SMEs’ performance through subsequent stages of the marketing strategy process. This is one of the first studies to consider activities in the marketing strategy process as a mediator in the innovativeness-performance relationship and explore its sequence.
Role of types of electoral rigging, socio-economic status, politics and voting behavior in the formation of attitudes toward electoral integrity
Authors: Ahmad Saeed , Mustafa Mudasir , Ullah Ahsan , Shoaib Muhammad , Mushtaq Muhammad , Ali Wasif
Published: April 2017

Purpose

This study aims to examine the associations between socioeconomic status, types of rigging (pre- polling-day and post-), politics and voting behavior, vote casting and perceptions of rigging in Pakistan’s most recent elections, and attitudes toward electoral integrity.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from students at three different universities. In all, 748 units of analysis (488 male and 260 female) recorded their responses by means of a self-structured questionnaire. Linear regression was applied to measure the associations between variables, and the reliability and validity of the scales were tested.

Findings

A significant relationship was found between pre-poll rigging, post-poll rigging, politics and voting behavior, socioeconomic characteristics (i.e. age, education, father’s education, background or place of residence and monthly household incomes), the perception of rigging in the last elections and attitudes toward electoral integrity.

Practical implications

Pakistan’s history has been blemished by electoral malpractices during both de facto and de jure regimes. Attention has formerly been paid to either polling-day or post-election rigging. The relationship of electoral integrity with different factors explored in this study have usually been ignored or overlooked. The findings of this study would help policy-makers, youth experts and academicians to reorient their behaviors to strengthen political stability, the rule of law and the continuation of democracy via their participation in the system.

Originality/value

To the researchers’ best knowledge, there has not been a single peer-reviewed study of Pakistan which has explored the associations between the variables examined for this study. The main academic challenge the researchers faced was to find a standardized and contextualized scale or tool to explore how different types of vote-rigging affected attitudes toward electoral integrity. Thus, the structured scales for types of rigging and electoral integrity developed here would be useful for future studies in the field of electoral integrity in democratic countries.
Involvement of ERK1/2 in Cx43 depression induced by macrophage migration inhibitory factor in atrial myocytes
Authors: Li Xin , Rao Fang , Deng Chun‐Yu , Wei Wei , Liu Fang‐Zhou , Yang Hui , Wang Zhao‐Yu , Kuang Su‐Juan , Chen Xiao‐Yan , Xue Yu‐Mei , Wu Shu‐Lin
Published: April 2017

Connexin 43 (Cx43) plays an important role in the pathogenesis of atrial fibrillation (AF). The present study sought to investigate the effect of macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), a pleiotropic cytokine, on Cx43 expression and activity and determine the intracellular signalling pathways. Cx43 protein and mRNA levels were assayed using immunofluorescence, real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and western blot. We found that increased MIF and extracellular regulated protein kinases (ERK) expression was accompanied by a significant reduction in Cx43 protein expression in atrial tissues from patients with AF compared with those with sinus rhythm. In cultured atrium‐derived myocytes (HL‐1 cells), mouse recombinant‐MIF (rMIF, 20 or 40 nmol/L, 24 hours) down‐regulated gene and protein expression of Cx43 in a concentration‐dependent manner. U0126, a specific inhibitor of mitogen‐activated protein kinase kinase (MAPKK) could reverse the decrease in expression of Cx43 protein induced by rMIF. Further studies revealed that rMIF (40 nmol/L, 15, 30, and 45 minutes) was able to stimulate phospho‐Erk1/2 (Thr202/Tyr204) production in a time‐dependent manner. These results suggest that MIF is involved in the pathogenesis of AF, probably by down‐regulating the protein and gene expression of Cx43 via ERK1/2 kinase activation. Our findings represent a potential pathogenic mechanism in AF.
Silencing of astrocyte elevated gene‐1 inhibits proliferation and migration of melanoma cells and induces apoptosis
Authors: Zhang Yue , Peng Ge , Wang Ying , Cui Lixia , Wu Wenqing , Wang Luan , Liu Chengyu , Han Xiuping
Published: April 2017

Melanoma is an aggressive skin malignancy with a high mortality. Astrocyte elevated gene‐1 (AEG‐1), a downstream target of Ras and c‐Myc, has been implicated in the development of multiple tumours, but its role in melanoma remains unclear. In the present study, the role of AEG‐1 in melanoma was explored through AEG‐1 silencing. Our results showed that silencing AEG‐1 inhibited the proliferation of melanoma cells, induced cell cycle arrest, and reduced levels of cyclin A, cyclin B, cyclin D1, cyclin E, and cyclin‐dependent kinase 2. AEG‐1silencing also induced apoptosis in melanoma cells and altered the levels of cleaved caspase‐3, B‐cell lymphoma‐2 (Bcl‐2) and Bcl‐2 associated X protein. Moreover, silencing AEG‐1 suppressed the migration and invasion of melanoma cells, reduced the expressions and activities of matrix metallopeptidase (MMP)‐2 and MMP‐9, and inhibited the activation of the Wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway in melanoma cells. Furthermore, in vivo experiments revealed that AEG‐1 silencing inhibited the growth of melanoma xenografts in nude mice. In summary, our study demonstrates an oncogenic role of AEG‐1 in melanoma and suggests that AEG‐1 may serve as a potential therapeutic target in the treatment of melanoma.
Clarification of serotonin‐induced effects in peripheral artery disease observed through the femoral artery response in models of diabetes and vascular occlusion: The role of calcium ions
Authors: Stojanović Marko , Prostran Milica , Janković Radmila , Radenković Miroslav
Published: April 2017

Recent findings have demonstrated that serotonin is an important participant in the development and progression of peripheral artery diseases. Taking this into consideration, the goals of this study were to investigate the effects of serotonin on isolated Wistar rat femoral arteries in both healthy and diabetic animals, with and without artery occlusion, with a particular focus on determining the role of calcium in this process. Contraction experiments with serotonin on intact and denuded femoral artery rings, in the presence or absence of nifedipine and ouabain (both separately, or in combination), as well as Ca2+‐free Krebs‐Ringer bicarbonate solution were performed. The serotonin‐induced results were concentration dependent, but only in healthy animals. The endothelium‐dependent contraction of the femoral artery was assessed. In healthy animals, the endothelium‐reliant part of contraction was dependent on the extracellular calcium, while the smooth muscle‐related part was instead dependent on the intracellular calcium. In diabetic animals, both nifedipine and ouabain influenced serotonin‐induced vascular effects by blocking intracellular calcium pathways. However, this was diminished after the simultaneous administration of both blockers.
Mixing of water masses caused by a drifting iceberg affects bacterial activity, community composition and substrate utilization capability in the Southern Ocean
Authors: Dinasquet Julie , Richert Inga , Logares Ramiro , Yager Patricia , Bertilsson Stefan , Riemann Lasse
Published: April 2017

The number of icebergs produced from ice‐shelf disintegration has increased over the past decade in Antarctica. These drifting icebergs mix the water column, influence stratification and nutrient condition, and can affect local productivity and food web composition. Data on whether icebergs affect bacterioplankton function and composition are scarce, however. We assessed the influence of iceberg drift on bacterial community composition and on their ability to exploit carbon substrates during summer in the coastal Southern Ocean. An elevated bacterial production and a different community composition were observed in iceberg‐influenced waters relative to the undisturbed water column nearby. These major differences were confirmed in short‐term incubations with bromodeoxyuridine followed by CARD‐FISH. Furthermore, one‐week bottle incubations amended with inorganic nutrients and carbon substrates (a mix of substrates, glutamine, N‐acetylglucosamine, or pyruvate) revealed contrasting capacity of bacterioplankton to utilize specific carbon substrates in the iceberg‐influenced waters compared with the undisturbed site. Our study demonstrates that the hydrographical perturbations introduced by a drifting iceberg can affect activity, composition, and substrate utilization capability of marine bacterioplankton. Consequently, in a context of global warming, increased frequency of drifting icebergs in polar regions holds the potential to affect carbon and nutrient biogeochemistry at local and possibly regional scales.
Survival of micro‐organisms and organic acid profile of probiotic Cheddar cheese from buffalo milk during accelerated ripening
Authors: Murtaza Mian A , Huma Nuzhat , Shabbir Muhammad A , Murtaza Mian S , Anees‐ur‐Rehman Muhammad
Published: April 2017

The study aimed to assess the impact of ripening at elevated temperatures on the survival of probiotic micro‐organisms and production of organic acids in Cheddar cheese. Cheese was manufactured from buffalo milk using lactococci starters along with different probiotic bacteria (Lactobacillus acidophilusLA‐5,Bifidobacterium bifidumBb‐11 andBifidobacterium longumBB536) as adjunct cultures. The cheeses were ripened at 4–6 °C or 12–14 °C for 180 days and examined for composition, organic acids and microbial survival. The production of organic acids was accelerated at 12–14 °C when compared to normal ripening temperatures. The probiotic bacteria increased production of lactic and acetic acids, compared to cheese made with lactococci alone. The survival of the mesophilic starters was significantly (P < 0.05) reduced in all the cheese samples ripened at the higher temperature. However, the probiotic bacteria remained viable (>7.0 log10cfu/g) throughout the 180 days of ripening, irrespective of temperature. It was concluded that Cheddar containing additional probiotic cultures can effectively be ripened at elevated temperatures without any adverse effects.
Food Evolution: The Impact of Society and Science on the Fermentation of Cocoa Beans
Authors: Ozturk Gulustan , Young Glenn M.
Published: April 2017

Cocoa is part of the cultural heritage in many areas of South and Central America and has played an important role in the history of human culture there. The modern methods of cocoa bean production for the purpose of the manufacture of modern chocolate are tied to the origin and development of cocoa bean fermentation and processing methods and the science of microbiology. To date, however, there has not been a study that discusses the impacts of both science and culture on the evolution of cocoa beans and cocoa bean processing. This work provides both a detailed overview of the evolution and historical development of cocoa, from its earliest forms to modern chocolate manufacturing, an in‐depth discussion of the biochemistry of cocoa bean fermentation, as well as a compilation of primary research studies with details on fermentation methods, the scientific bases of interactions in microbial fermentations, and methods for their investigation, as well as metabolites that are produced. As a result, we present here the major microorganisms among all the ones that have been identified in previous studies. This database will aid researchers seeking standardized inoculants to drive cocoa bean fermentation, as well as serve as a guide for inventorying and assessing other food evolution–related studies regarding traditional and artisanal‐based food systems.
Retrospective evaluation of premenopausal hormone‐sensitive breast cancer patients treated with adjuvant gonadotropin‐releasing hormone analogue: Anatolian Society of Medical Oncology (ASMO) study
Authors: Demirci Ayşe , Alkış Necati , Dane Faysal , Durnalı Ayşe , Yazıcı Ömer Kamil , Rzayev Rashad , Kaya Serap , Yazılıtaş Doğan , İnanç Mevlüde , Özçelik Melike , Akman Tülay , Kaplan Mehmet Ali , Günaydın Yusuf , Ulaş Arife , Sönmez Özlem , Tokluoğlu Saadet , Gököz Doğu Gamze , Bal Öznur , Gümüş Mahmut
Published: April 2017

Aim

The goal of this study is to evaluate possible factors affecting the survival of patients treated with gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) analogues.

Methods

Demographic characteristics, treatment modalities, overall survival (OS) and the possible factors affecting the survival a total of 554 premenopausal breast cancer patients in Turkey evaluated retrospectively.

Results

The median duration of GnRH analogues use was 22 ± 13.6 (range, 1–87) months. Patients were divided into three groups according to the duration of GNRH analogues use; 4–12 months (Group A), 13–24 months (Group B) and ≥25 months (Group C). Overall, 530 patients were analyzed; 23.2%, 45.8%, 30.9% of the patients were in Group A, B and C, respectively. The median follow‐up duration was 34 ± 30.3 (range, 4–188) months. The OS in patients ≤35 years of age was found to be significantly longer than that of patients >35 years of age in Group B (log rank, P = 0.023). The disease‐free survival of the patients in Group A was significantly shorter than that of patients in Group C (log rank, P = 0.003). The OS of Group A patients was significantly shorter in comparison to that of Group B and Group C patients (log rank, P = 0.000) and the OS of Group B patients was significantly shorter than Group C (log rank, P = 0,000).

Conclusion

There is currently no definite data on the optimal duration of GnRH analogues use. One of the important results of this study that will provide an insight to the future studies is the improvement gained in OS by the increase in the duration of GnRH analogues use.
Soy isoflavones enhance β‐defensin synthesis and secretion in endometrial epithelial cells with exposure to TLR3 agonist polyinosinic‐polycytidylic acid
Authors: Srisomboon Yotesawee , Poonyachoti Sutthasinee , Deachapunya Chatsri
Published: April 2017

Problem

β‐defensins are important innate chemical barriers that protect the endometrium from pathogen invasion. The effects of soy isoflavones, genistein and daidzein, on the expression and secretion of porcine β‐defensins (PBD) in endometrial epithelial cells were investigated under normal or poly I:C‐stimulated conditions.

Method of study

Primary cultured porcine endometrial epithelial (PE) cells were pretreated with genistein or daidzein followed by poly I:C inoculation. During treatment, the culture media were analyzed for PBD 1‐4 secretion by ELISA and the total RNA for PBD gene expression by quantitative RT‐PCR.

Results

Porcine endometrial epithelial cells constitutively expressed PBD 1‐4 and secreted PBD‐1, PBD‐2, and PBD‐4. Genistein and daidzein enhanced PBD‐2 expression and PBD‐2 and PBD‐3 secretion. These compounds also potentiated PBD‐2 and PBD‐3 expression and secretion which were upregulated by poly I:C.

Conclusion

Soy isoflavones, genistein and daidzein, could be potentially used for promoting the innate host defense of endometrium against infection.
Trafficking in US Agriculture
Authors: Izcara Palacios Simón Pedro , Yamamoto Yasutaka
Published: April 2017

Based on a qualitative methodology that includes in‐depth interviews with 90 Mexican migrant smugglers and 45 Central American farmworkers, this article analyzes the three separate elements of trafficking in US agriculture, namely acts, means, and purposes. We conclude that some US employers participate in human trafficking by financing or helping to recruit and transport Mexican and Central American migrants to the US by means of “abuse of a position of vulnerability” for the purposes of involuntary servitude, debt bondage, and sex exploitation.
Does endothelial tetrahydrobiopterin control the endothelial NO synthase coupling state in arterial resistance arteries?
Authors: Münzel Thomas , Daiber Andreas
Published: April 2017

Linked Article

This article is a Commentary on Chuaiphichai S, Crabtree MJ, McNeill E, Hale AB, Trelfa L, Channon KM et al. (2017). A key role for tetrahydrobiopterin‐dependent endothelial NOS regulation in resistance arteries: studies in endothelial cell tetrahydrobiopterin‐deficient mice. Br J Pharmacol 174: 657–671. https://doi.org/10.1111/bph.13728
Reactive oxygen species: key regulators in vascular health and diseases
Authors: Chen Qishan , Wang Qiwen , Zhu Jianhua , Xiao Qingzhong , Zhang Li
Published: April 2017

ROS are a group of small reactive molecules that play critical roles in the regulation of various cell functions and biological processes. In the vascular system, physiological levels of ROS are essential for normal vascular functions including endothelial homeostasis and smooth muscle cell contraction. In contrast, uncontrolled overproduction of ROS resulting from an imbalance of ROS generation and elimination leads to the development of vascular diseases. Excessive ROS cause vascular cell damage, the recruitment of inflammatory cells, lipid peroxidation, activation of metalloproteinases and deposition of extracellular matrix, collectively leading to vascular remodelling. Evidence from a large number of studies has revealed that ROS and oxidative stress are involved in the initiation and progression of numerous vascular diseases including hypertension, atherosclerosis, restenosis and abdominal aortic aneurysm. Furthermore, considerable research has been implemented to explore antioxidants that can reduce ROS production and oxidative stress in order to ameliorate vascular diseases. In this review, we will discuss the nature and sources of ROS, their roles in vascular homeostasis and specific vascular diseases and various antioxidants as well as some of the pharmacological agents that are capable of reducing ROS and oxidative stress. The aim of this review is to provide information for developing promising clinical strategies targeting ROS to decrease cardiovascular risks.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on Spotlight on Small Molecules in Cardiovascular Diseases. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v175.8/issuetoc
Sulfur‐containing gaseous signal molecules, ion channels and cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Yu Wen , Jin Hongfang , Tang Chaoshu , Du Junbao , Zhang Zhiren
Published: April 2017

Sulfur‐containing gaseous signal molecules including hydrogen sulphide and sulfur dioxide were previously recognized as toxic gases. However, extensive studies have revealed that they can be generated in the cardiovascular system via a sulfur‐containing amino acid metabolic pathway, and have an important role in cardiovascular physiology and pathophysiology. Ion channels are pore‐forming membrane proteins present in the membrane of all biological cells; their functions include the establishment of a resting membrane potential and the control of action potentials and other electrical signals by conducting ions across the cell membrane. Evidence has now accumulated suggesting that the sulfur‐containing gaseous signal molecules are important regulators of ion channels and transporters. The aims of this review are (1) to discuss the recent experimental evidences in the cardiovascular system regarding the regulatory effects of sulfur‐containing gaseous signal molecules on a variety of ion channels, including ATP‐sensitive potassium, calcium‐activated potassium, voltage‐gated potassium, L‐ and T‐type calcium, transient receptor potential and chloride and sodium channels, and (2) to understand how the gaseous signal molecules affect ion channels and cardiovascular diseases.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on Spotlight on Small Molecules in Cardiovascular Diseases. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v175.8/issuetoc
Primary ecological succession in vascular epiphytes: The species accumulation model
Authors: Woods Carrie L.
Published: April 2017

Epiphytes are integral to tropical forests yet little is understood about how succession proceeds in these communities. As trees increase in size they create microhabitats for late‐colonizing species in both small and large branches while maintaining small tree microhabitats for early colonizing species in the small and young branches. Thus, epiphyte succession may follow different models depending on the scale: at the scale of the entire tree, epiphytes may follow a species accumulation model where species are continuously added to the tree as trees increase in size but at the scale of one zone on a branch (e.g., inner crown: 0–2 m from the trunk), they may follow the replacement model of succession seen in terrestrial ecosystems. Assuming tree size as an indicator of tree age, I surveyed 61 Virola koschnyi trees of varying size (2.5–103.3 cm diameter at breast height) in lowland wet tropical forest in Costa Rica to examine how epiphyte communities change through succession. Epiphyte communities in small trees were nested subsets of those in large trees and epiphyte communities became more similar to the largest trees as trees increased in size. Furthermore, epiphyte species in small trees were replaced by mid‐ and late‐successional species in the oldest parts of the tree crown but dispersed toward the younger branches as trees increased in size. Thus, epiphyte succession followed a replacement model in particular zones within treecrowns but a species accumulation model at the scale of the entire tree crown.
A genetic risk score that includes common type 2 diabetes risk variants is associated with gestational diabetes
Authors: Kawai V. K. , Levinson R. T. , Adefurin A. , Kurnik D. , Collier S. P. , Conway D. , Stein C. M.
Published: April 2017

Objective

Gestational diabetes (GDM) is characterized by maternal glucose intolerance that manifests during pregnancy. Because GDM resembles type 2 diabetes (T2DM), shared genetic predisposition is likely but has not been established. We tested the hypothesis that a genetic risk score (GRS) that included variants known to be associated with T2DM is associated with GDM.

Study design

We conducted a case‐control study using the Vanderbilt Medical Center biobank (BioVU) and calculated a simple‐count GRS using 34 variants previously associated with T2DM or fasting glucose in the general population, or with GDM or glucose intolerance in pregnancy. We assessed the association of the GRS with GDM adjusting for maternal age, parity, and body mass index (BMI) and calculated the area under the curve for the receiver‐operating characteristic curve (c‐statistic).

Study population

Among Caucasian women, we identified 458 cases of GDM and 1538 pregnant controls with normal glucose tolerance.

Results

Cases of GDM had a higher number of risk alleles compared to controls (38.9±4.0 vs 37.4±4.0 risk alleles, P=1.6×10−11). The GRS was significantly associated with GDM; the adjusted odds ratio associated with each additional risk allele was 1.10 (95% CI: 1.07‐1.13, P=6×10−11). Clinical variables predicted the risk of GDM (c‐statistic 0.67, 95% CI: 0.64‐0.70), and adding the GRS modestly improved prediction (0.70, 95% CI: 0.67‐0.73).

Conclusions

Among Caucasian women, a GRS that included common T2DM genetic risk variants was associated with increased risk of GDM but showed limited utility in the identification of GDM cases.
Establishment and evaluation of a novel biomarker‐based nomogram for malignant phaeochromocytomas and paragangliomas
Authors: Zhong Xu , Ye Lei , Su TingWei , Xie Jing , Zhou Weiwei , Jiang Yiran , Jiang Lei , Ning Guang , Wang Weiqing
Published: April 2017

Objective

No single histological or molecular marker is diagnostic for malignant phaeochromocytomas and paragangliomas (PPGLs). This study aimed to establish and evaluate a prognostic nomogram to improve the prediction of metastatic probability in individual PPGL patients.

Methods

Three hundred and 47 consecutive PPGL patients from January 2002 through December 2014 were randomly divided into a training set (n=208) and a validation set (n=139). A multivariate logistic regression analysis of selected prognostic features was performed, and a nomogram to predict metastasis was constructed. Discrimination and calibration were employed to evaluate the performance of the nomogram. Clinical usefulness was calculated using decision curve analysis.

Results

The overall metastatic rate was 10.6%. Primary tumour size, primary tumour location, vascular invasion, ERBB‐2 overexpression, SDHB mutation and catecholamine type were associated with malignancy in the logistic analysis and were included in the nomogram. The nomogram showed an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.872 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.819‐0.914) in the training set. The validation set showed good discrimination, with an AUC of 0.870 (95% CI, 0.803‐0.921). The nomogram was well calibrated, with no significant difference between the predicted and the observed probabilities (Hosmer‐Lemeshow test: P=.510 for the training set; .314 for the validation set). Decision curve analysis revealed that molecular markers (ERBB‐2 overexpression and SDHB mutation) could increase the clinical benefit of the nomogram.

Conclusion

Our results support the use of the present biomarker‐based nomogram, which has good discriminative ability, to predict the metastatic probability of PPGLs.
A qualitative study of the role of Australian general practitioners in the surgical management of obesity
Authors: Jose K. , Venn A. , Nelson M. , Howes F. , Wilkinson S. , Ezzy D.
Published: April 2017

General practitioners (GPs) are increasingly managing patients with class 2 and 3 obesity (body mass index [BMI] > 35 and 40 kg/m2, respectively). Bariatric surgery is considered for patients with class 2 obesity and comorbidities or class 3 obesity where sustained weight loss using non‐surgical interventions has not been achieved. In Australia, GPs facilitate access to surgery through referral processes, but the nature of GP involvement in bariatric pre‐ and post‐surgery care is currently unclear. This qualitative study involved 10 in‐depth interviews with GPs and 20 interviews with adults who had all undergone laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) for weight management in Tasmania, Australia. Interviews were transcribed and analysed thematically. Referrals for bariatric surgery commonly occurred at the patient's request or to manage comorbidity. Consistent with previous studies, for GPs, referral patterns were influenced by previous case experience and patients’ financial considerations. Accessibility of surgery was also a consideration. Post‐surgery, there was a lack of clarity about the role of GPs, with patients generally preferring the surgical team to manage the LAGB. In bariatric surgery, patient preference for surgery, access and comorbidity are key drivers for referral and post‐surgical monitoring and support. Greater role clarity and enhanced collaboration between surgeons, GPs and patients following surgery is likely to enhance the experience and outcomes for patients.
Inflammatory features of frontal fibrosing alopecia
Authors: Ma Sophia A. , Imadojemu Sotonye , Beer Kenneth , Seykora John T.
Published: April 2017

Introduction

Frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA) is a cicatricial alopecia typically occurring in postmenopausal women. The etiology and pathophysiology of FFA is poorly understood but thought to be immune mediated. This study aims to further explore the extent of fibrosis and the inflammatory microenvironment by characterizing Langerhans cells (LCs), helper T cells, cytotoxic T cells and B cells near hair follicles in FFA.

Methods

Eleven paraffin‐embedded tissues from patients with a clinical and histopathologic diagnosis of FFA were selected for immunohistochemical studies using CD3, CD4, CD8, CD1a and CD20. The lymphocytes and LCs were counted around involved follicles. The CD4/CD8 T‐lymphocyte ratios were calculated and compared to the CD4/CD8 T‐lymphocyte ratios in uninvolved areas.

Results

On histopathologic review, at least 35% of follicles in each case were affected by the disease with concentric perifollicular fibrosis and a perifollicular lichenoid lymphocytic infiltrate around the infundibuloisthmic portion of the hair follicle. There was an increase of perifollicular LCs (mean of 18, SD of 5.5) and intrafollicular LCs (mean of 14, SD of 4.3) in involved follicles compared to uninvolved follicles (P < .0001). The involved follicles also showed a relative decrease in the CD4/CD8 ratio indicating increased numbers of CD8+ T cells; a finding distinct from the CD4‐predominant population in uninvolved follicles (P < .0001).

Conclusion

The inflammatory features of FFA show a CD8‐biased T‐cell infiltrate with increased numbers of LCs in the infundibuloisthmic region. The increased LCs may represent an aberrant immune reaction promoting a CD8+ T‐cell response.
Mucinous hidradenoma in a child—A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Ahmed Aadil , Kim Wendy , Speiser Jodi
Published: April 2017

Hidradenomas are benign tumors of the sweat glands that are rarely reported in childhood. The presence of mucinous change in hidradenomas, which consists of variable numbers of mucin‐rich goblet cells, is occasionally observed in some adult clinical practices. However, it has not been previously reported in the pediatric population. Herein, we present a unique case of a mucinous hidradenoma presenting on the thigh of a 3‐year‐old boy. The clinical presentation and histological features of the case, along with a literature review of published case reports of pediatric hidradenomas are described. We present this case in order to highlight this variant of hidradenoma and to reinforce its inclusion in the differential diagnosis of neoplasms/conditions of childhood with mucinous differentiation.
Fire exclusion and climate change interact to affect long‐term changes in the functional composition of plant communities
Authors: Li Daijiang , Waller Donald M.
Published: April 2017

Aim

Plant functional traits allow us to mechanistically link changes in species composition to changes in ecosystem functions. Understanding how and why changes occur in functional composition of plant communities can thus help us better conserve and restore biodiversity. We aim to examine long‐term effects of fire exclusion and climate change on the functional composition of fire‐maintained pine barrens in central Wisconsin.

Location

Central Wisconsin, USA.

Methods

Using a database that included vegetation data of surveys (1958) and resurveys (2012) of 30 sites, we quantified functional composition (α and β functional diversity, community‐weighted means) of each site at both time periods. We then applied linear regression and linear mixed models to study effects of fire exclusion and climate change on changes in functional composition.

Results

We observed shifts towards larger specific leaf area, greater seed mass and other traits related to shade tolerance. These communities thus appear to be undergoing ecological succession, favouring plant adaptions to better harvest light and carbon in darker, warmer and wetter habitats. Functional alpha diversity increased, while functional beta diversity decreased even after controlling for changes in taxonomic diversity. Fire exclusion and climate change both contributed to these increases in local functional diversity but neither is related to the functional homogenization observed. Fire exclusion and climate change also interacted negatively to affect local functional diversity, suggesting that future climate change and succession may soon reduce alpha functional diversity.

Main conclusions

Our study provides a rare record of long‐term functional dynamics and demonstrates that fire exclusion and climate change can interact to affect the functional composition of plant communities. Thus, we should consider changes in local ecological conditions as we seek to predict how climate change will affect the functional composition of plant communities.
Including environmental niche information to improve IUCN Red List assessments
Authors: Breiner Frank T. , Guisan Antoine , Nobis Michael P. , Bergamini Ariel
Published: April 2017

Aim

Information on change in species’ environmental preferences (i.e., niche) is currently not included in IUCN Red List criteria, although such information is key for assessing whether species not only lose geographic range but also lose part of their realized niche. Here, using niche size quantification and niche‐based species distribution models (SDMs), we test whether realized niche size and predicted potential range size provide additional information compared with the standard IUCN scores.

Location

Switzerland, national scale.

Methods

We simulated randomly, spatially directed, and ecologically directed local extinction events of varying magnitudes (10%, 30%, and 50% of occurrences). For a set of 148 representative vascular plant species, we tested how accurately the geographic versus niche measures pictured these extinction scenarios respectively.

Results

We found that changes in niche size often corresponded to changes in geographic space. However, there was considerable variation and, for many species, changes in geographic and in niche space delivered complementary information. IUCN criteria based on spatial projections of SDMs did not capture extinction events in most cases and often increased the modelled range size, even when up to 50% of the occurrences were removed by simulated extinction events.

Main conclusion

Our findings demonstrate that changes in niche size can provide valuable additional information and could be used more systematically to complement changes in range size for Red List assessments. In turn, change in SDM‐predicted range size was not a good surrogate for classical extent of occurrence and area of occupancy criteria and should be used with caution. Further research is needed to assess whether and how spatial predictions of SDMs may be used to appropriately complement current IUCN criteria and to test whether our findings apply to other organisms and other spatial extents.
Identification of morphogenetic capability limitations via a single starfish embryo/larva reconstruction method
Authors: Kawai Narudo , Omori Ikuko , Kuraishi Ritsu , Kaneko Hiroyuki
Published: April 2017

Reconstruction of a starfish embryo provides unique morphogenesis during the developmental process that is not observed in normal development. Here, we established a novel method for reconstruction from single embryos/larvae. By using this method, we investigated the morphogenetic capabilities in critical steps during the reconstruction process as showed by the reconstructed embryos generated from embryos/larvae at the six developmental stages, or from segregated ectodermal and/or endomesodermal cells. Additionally, the novel method addressed several problems found in prior methods related to reproducibly generating reconstructed embryos. In the reconstructions from the various stage embryos/larvae, the morphogenetic capabilities were substantively reduced in the reconstructed embryos generated from 3‐day bipinnaria (3dBp). The combination experiments using ectodermal or endomesodermal cells segregated from 2dBp or 3dBp showed a reduction of the morphogenetic capabilities in both cells types in 3dBp. The reconstructed embryos generated from ectodermal or endomesodermal cells segregated from 2dBp possessed partial morphological features, such as formation of the epithelium or blastopore, but all failed to develop into bipinnariae. These results indicate two limitations of the morphogenetic capabilities during the reconstruction process. Firstly, the morphogenetic capabilities to reconstruct an embryo are considerably reduced between 2dBp and 3dBp. Secondly, cells specified as ectoderm or endomesoderm possess limited morphogenetic capabilities to reconstruct bipinnaria. Furthermore, our results demonstrate that the interaction between these specified cell types is required for reconstruction.
Kinship, nomadism, and humanitarian aid among Somalis in Ethiopia
Authors: Carruth Lauren
Published: April 2017

This paper draws on extended ethnographic and health policy research in eastern Ethiopia to reconsider kinship and nomadism among Somalis, as both of these cultural features transform in the contexts of recurrent humanitarian crises and episodic relief operations. The emergence and importance of new patterns of travel and migration among Somalis in Ethiopia reveal significant changes in the configurations and enactments of Somali kinship, on which many Somalis' mobility depends. Conversely, an analysis of Somalis' dynamic sub‐clan groupings and geographically dispersed kinship networks also highlights emergent patterns of mobility and migration that enable access to training opportunities and employment with relief organisations, as well as to distributions of humanitarian aid. Based on these findings, this paper argues that kinship and nomadism—both long central to Somalis' identities in Ethiopia—remain interdependent, coevolved, and key to their resilience and livelihoods in the face of recurrent crises and intermittent humanitarian responses.