bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Domestication of tomato has reduced the attraction of herbivore natural enemies to pest‐damaged plants
Authors: Li Xiaohong , Garvey Michael , Kaplan Ian , Li Baoping , Carrillo Juli
Published: December 2017

Plant domestication can alter species interactions and influence novel associations among crops and insects. We performed a series of preference and performance experiments to test predator and herbivore attraction to domesticated and wild plants and to evaluate the efficacy of herbivore‐induced plant volatiles (HIPVs) across a domestication gradient in tomato, including wild relatives, landraces and domesticated commercial cultivars.

We employed a tri‐trophic system consisting of the specialist lepidopteran herbivoreManduca sextaand two of its natural enemies: an egg predator, the stilt bugJalysus wickhami, and a larval parasitoid, the waspCotesia congregata.

In olfactometer trials, natural enemies consistently preferred HIPVs of wild tomatoes over domesticated cultivars, with landraces in between. Plant‐domestication effects were also apparent in terms of decision speed: predators were slower to orient towards damaged crops than to damaged wild relatives.

By contrast,M. sextamoths were more likely to oviposit on domesticated than on wild or landrace tomatoes, indicating that insect responses to plant odours vary with trophic level. Field trials confirmed olfactory preference tests: caterpillars recovered from wild tomato relatives were more likely to be parasitized than those recovered from landraces or domesticated tomatoes.

The results of the present study suggest that tomato domestication has reduced the efficacy of HIPVs in attracting predators compared with wild relatives and also that this decreased attraction leads to lower attack rates by enemies in the field. This outcome has implications for understanding the specificity of tri‐trophic plant defences and the compatibility of natural enemies for biocontrol in agro‐ecosystems.
Environmental and genetic influences on the dispersal propensity of spruce budworm (Choristoneura fumiferana)
Authors: Van Hezewijk Brian , Wertman Debra , Stewart Don , Béliveau Catherine , Cusson Michel
Published: December 2017

For many species, dispersal among populations has profound impacts on local dynamics and the spread of outbreaks. Understanding the environmental and genetic triggers of density‐dependent dispersal is important for improving population models and developing reliable management strategies.

We hypothesized that moth dispersal in the spruce budworm (Choristoneura fumiferana Clem.) is triggered by reductions in larval food availability and mediated by the expression of the for gene, which affects movement and dispersal activity in Drosophila and other species. Late‐stage larvae were reared under different food‐limitation treatments. Dispersal of adults was assessed using three measures of flight performance on flight mills: maximum velocity, 1‐h flight distance and maximum sustained flight time. Accumulation of for transcripts was measured by a quantitative polymerase chain reaction on moths from each treatment.

Flight activity was positively related to moth size and, although food limitation caused reductions in moth size, it also had an independent and positive effect on maximum velocities, sustained flight times and flight distances. Food limitation had no effect on expression of the for gene.

We conclude that reductions in food availability will produce moths that are smaller but exhibit increased flight activity, potentially increasing the population of dispersing individuals. The physiological basis for this effect remains unknown.
Extra‐corporeal normothermic machine perfusion of the porcine kidney: working towards future utilization in Australasia
Authors: Hameed Ahmer M. , Miraziz Ray , Lu David B. , Warwick Neil , El‐Ayoubi Ali , Burns Heather , Chew Yi Vee , Matthews Ross , O'Grady Greg , Yuen Lawrence , Rogers Natasha , Pleass Henry C. , Hawthorne Wayne J.
Published: December 2017

Background

The ongoing supply‐demand gap with respect to donor kidneys for transplantation necessitates the increased use of higher kidney donor profile index and/or donation after circulatory death (DCD) kidneys. Machine perfusion (MP) preservation has become increasingly popular as a means to preserve such organs. Human data regarding normothermic kidney MP (NMP) is in its infancy, and such a system has not been established in the Australasian clinical setting.

Methods

Modified cardio‐pulmonary bypass technology was utilized to develop a viable NMP kidney perfusion system using a porcine DCD model. System development and optimization occurred in two stages, with system components added in each experiment to identify optimal perfusion conditions.

Results

Device functionality was demonstrated by the successful perfusion of and urine production by, eight porcine kidneys. Urine production diminished in the presence of colloid in the perfusate. Pressure‐controlled (compared with flow‐controlled) perfusion is preferable as a safe perfusion pressure range can be maintained. More physiologic perfusion conditions are achieved if oxygenation is provided by an oxygen/carbon dioxide mixture compared to 100% oxygen.

Conclusion

A viable and reproducible NMP system was established and tested in porcine kidneys, which was able to simulate graft function extra‐corporeally. Further work is required to identify the most optimal perfusion conditions. Prior to its utilization in clinical transplantation, the system should be tested in non‐transplanted human kidneys.
Utility of early transperineal template‐guided prostate biopsy for risk stratification in men undergoing active surveillance for prostate cancer
Authors: Voss James , Pal Raj , Ahmed Shaista , Hannah Magnus , Jaulim Adil , Walton Thomas
Published: December 2017

Objective

To assess the accuracy and utility of routine multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) and transperineal template‐guided prostate biopsy (TPB) after enrolment in active surveillance (AS).

Patients and Methods

From April 2012 to December 2016 consecutive men from our single institution, diagnosed with low‐ or intermediate‐risk prostate cancer on transrectal ultrasonography‐guided biopsy, were offered further staging with early mpMRI and TPB within 12 months of diagnosis. Data were collected prospectively. Eligibility criteria comprised: age ≤77 years; Gleason score ≤3 + 4; clinical stage T1–T2; PSA ≤15 ng/mL; and <50% positive biopsy cores.

Results

A total of 208 men were enrolled, including 196 with Gleason score 3 + 3 and 12 with Gleason score 3 + 4 disease. The median (range) number of TPB cores was 50 (17–161), with a mean TPB core density of 1.2 cores/cm3 prostate volume. A total of 83 men (39.9%) underwent histopathological upgrading after TPB, including 76 men (38.8%) with Gleason score 3 + 3 disease and seven men (58.3%) with Gleason score 3 + 4 disease. Of these, 26 (31.3%) were found to harbour primary pattern Gleason grade ≥4 disease. In all, 24 (28.9%) upgraded cases had Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System (PI‐RADS) score 1 or 2 lesions on mpMRI, including five men with Gleason score ≥4 + 3 disease. Of these, 14 (58.3%) had a prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) density of ≥0.15, including four out of the five men with Gleason ≥4 + 3 disease. Overall there was a change in prostate cancer management in 77 men (37.0%) after TPB.

Conclusions

Early TPB during AS is associated with significant upgrading and a change in treatment plan in over a third of men. If TPB was omitted in men with a PI‐RADS score <3 and a PSA density <0.15, 12% of those harbouring more significant disease would have been misclassified.
Comparative study of femtosecond laser‐assisted cataract surgery and conventional phacoemulsification in vitrectomized eyes
Authors: Wang Ellen F , Worsley Andrew , Polkinghorne Philip J
Published: December 2017

Importance

To compare the safety and outcomes of femtosecond laser‐assisted cataract surgery (FLACS) and conventional phacoemulsification in post‐vitrectomy eyes.

Background

To compare visual outcomes and adverse outcomes of FLACS and conventional phacoemulsification in vitrectomized eyes.

Design

Single surgeon, retrospective study set in a private clinic in Auckland, New Zealand. Patients selected in a chronological manner, without masking or randomization.

Participants

Only patients undergoing cataract extraction following vitrectomy were included.

Methods

The last 25 surgeries performed prior to acquisition of the femtosecond laser and the first 25 surgeries performed following acquisition of the femtosecond laser were included. Patient demographic data, preoperative and postoperative visual acuities were collected. Intraoperative and postoperative complications were compared. Follow‐up ranged from 1 to 74 months.

Main Outcome Measures

The main outcome measures are postoperative visual outcomes and intra‐ and postoperative complications for both groups.

Results

Results of FLACS compared to conventional phacoemulsification are as follows: preoperative logMAR best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) (0.63 vs. 0.69), postoperative logMAR BCVA (0.17 vs. 0.19), posterior capsule complications (0% vs. 12%, P = 0.235), cystoid macular oedema (CMO) (12% vs. 20%, P = 0.705) and postoperative neodymium‐doped yttrium aluminium garnet (Nd:YAG) capsulotomy (16% vs. 48%, P = 0.032).

Conclusions and Relevance

FLACS demonstrates comparable visual outcomes to conventional phacoemulsification. Whilst outcomes measured were not statistically significant, except postoperative YAG capsulotomy, FLACS showed a trend towards a better intraoperative and postoperative safety profile. Femtosecond laser offers a theoretical advantage in reducing complication rates in post‐vitrectomy eyes, further larger studies are needed.
Drug and alcohol treatment providers’ views about the disease model of addiction and its impact on clinical practice: A systematic review
Authors: Barnett Anthony I. , Hall Wayne , Fry Craig L. , Dilkes‐Frayne Ella , Carter Adrian
Published: December 2017

Issues

Addiction treatment providers’ views about the disease model of addiction (DMA), and their contemporary views about the brain disease model of addiction (BDMA), remain an understudied area. We systematically reviewed treatment providers’ attitudes about the DMA/BDMA, examined factors associated with positive or negative attitudes and assessed their views on the potential clinical impact of both models.

Approach

Pubmed, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL Plus and Sociological Abstracts were systematically searched. Original papers on treatment providers’ views about the DMA/BDMA and its clinical impact were included. Studies focussing on tobacco, behavioural addictions or non‐Western populations were excluded.

Key Findings

The 34 included studies were predominantly quantitative and conducted in the USA. Among mixed findings of treatment providers’ support for the DMA, strong validity studies indicated treatment providers supported the disease concept and moral, free‐will or social models simultaneously. Support for the DMA was positively associated with treatment providers’ age, year of qualification, certification status, religious beliefs, being in recovery and Alcoholics Anonymous attendance. Greater education was negatively associated with DMA support. Treatment providers identified potential positive (e.g. reduced stigma) and negative (e.g. increased sense of helplessness) impacts of the DMA on client behaviour.

Implications/Conclusion

The review suggests treatment providers may endorse disease and other models while strategically deploying the DMA for presumed therapeutic benefits. Varying DMA support across workforces indicated service users may experience multiple and potentially contradictory explanations of addiction. Future policy development will benefit by considering how treatment providers adopt disease concepts in practice.
Reading comprehension difficulties in children with rolandic epilepsy
Authors: Currie Nicola K , Lew Adina R , Palmer Tom M , Basu Helen , De Goede Christian , Iyer Anand , Cain Kate
Published: December 2017

Aim

Difficulties in reading comprehension can arise from either word reading or listening comprehension difficulties, or a combination of the two. We sought to determine whether children with rolandic epilepsy had poor reading comprehension relative to typically developing comparison children, and whether such difficulties were associated with word reading and/or general language comprehension difficulties.

Method

In this cross‐sectional study, children with rolandic epilepsy (n=25; 16 males, 9 females; mean age 9y 1mo, SD 1y 7mo) and a comparison group (n=39; 25 males, 14 females; mean age 9y 1mo, SD 1y 3mo) completed assessments of reading comprehension, listening comprehension, word/non‐word reading, speech articulation, and Non‐verbal IQ.

Results

Reading comprehension and word reading were worse in children with rolandic epilepsy (F1,61=6.89, p=0.011, =0.10 and F1,61=6.84, p=0.011, =0.10 respectively), with listening comprehension being marginal (F1,61=3.81, p=0.055, =0.06). Word reading and listening comprehension made large and independent contributions to reading comprehension, explaining 70% of the variance.

Interpretation

Children with rolandic epilepsy may be at risk of reading comprehension difficulties. Thorough assessment of individual children is required to ascertain whether the difficulties lie with decoding text, or with general comprehension skills, or both.

What this paper adds

Children with rolandic epilepsy may be at risk of poor reading comprehension.

This was related to poor word reading, poor listening comprehension, or both.

Reading comprehension interventions should be tailored to the profile of difficulties.
On the Anatomy of Financial Literacy in Italy
Authors: Baglioni Angelo , Colombo Luca , Piccirilli Giulio
Published: December 2017

Using survey data on a sample of the Italian population, in this paper we offer a comprehensive account of which personal characteristics are associated to adequate financial competence and wise financial behaviour. The study uses five indicators of individual financial competence and behaviour and provides evidence on how each indicator is connected to individual characteristics such as gender, age, marital status, labour market status, income and education. Two indicators measure competence and awareness of the financial environment, while the remaining three capture specific elements of financial behaviour such as attitude towards budget constraints, propensity to save and planning for retirement. As expected, the pattern of correlations is rather homogeneous across the five indicators. In particular, we find that being a woman or being less educated is associated to less familiarity with the financial environment.
Identification of influence factors for the implementation of communication curricula in dental education
Authors: Rüttermann S. , Kiessling C. , Haak R. , Gerhardt‐Szep S. , Härtl A.
Published: December 2017

Introduction

The aim of the study was to reveal possible obstacles or advantages for the implementation of a dental communication curriculum. It was questioned whether (i) universities with a communication curriculum in medicine realise the same development in dentistry, (ii) the existence and usage of a learning objectives catalogue is a main factor to facilitate the implementation, and (iii) it is more easy to establish with a lower number of students.

Material and methods

Data of two recently published surveys were taken as the basis for further analysis. The quality of the curricula was evaluated by a scoring system. Correlations were calculated between the scores and possible influence factors. A t test for paired samples was accomplished to reveal differences between medical and dental curricula, and a Mann‐Whitney U test to identify differences in schools with and without the usage of a learning objectives catalogue.

Results

No significant correlation was found between the quality scores of medical and dental schools; t tests revealed significant differences between them (P = .004). Correlation between cohort size and quality of the curriculum was marginal. Mann‐Whitney U test revealed significantly higher quality scores for dental schools using a learning objectives catalogue (P = .001).

Conclusions

The existence of a learning objectives catalogue might facilitate the implementation of communication curricula at dental schools. A missing notable curriculum in the corresponding medical school should not detain from a respective campaign in the dental curriculum. Large student numbers should also not discourage from developing a communication curriculum.
Flow cytometric analysis of cerebrospinal fluid in adult patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia during follow‐up
Authors: Gong Xiaoyuan , Lin Dong , Wang Huijun , Wang Ying , Liu Bingcheng , Wei Hui , Zhou Chunlin , Liu Kaiqi , Wei Shuning , Gong Benfa , Zhang Guangji , Liu Yuntao , Zhao Xingli , Li Yan , Gu Runxia , Qiu Shaowei , Mi Yingchang , Wang Jianxiang
Published: December 2017

Objective

To explore the value of flow cytometric (FCM) analysis of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the diagnosis of central nervous system involvement in adult patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) during follow‐up.

Methods

A total of 2871 CSF samples from 357 adult patients with newly diagnosed ALL between the year of 2009 and 2015 were analyzed retrospectively. These patients were divided into 3 groups according to CSF results, FCM+/conventional cytology (CC)+ group, FCM+/CC− group, and FCM−/CC− group, respectively. The overall survival (OS) of the three groups was analyzed.

Results

Fifteen (4.2%) and 26 (7.3%) patients' CSF samples were FCM+/CC+ and FCM+/CC−, respectively. The remaining 316 (88.5%) patients' samples were FCM−/CC−. The 2‐year OS for the FCM+/CC+, FCM+/CC−, and FCM−/CC− groups was 40.0%, 20.6%, and 64.2%, respectively (P < .001). There was no statistically significant difference in OS between FCM+/CC+ and FCM+/CC− patients (P = .195). In multivariate analysis, a high WBC count and LDH level were independent risk factors for central nervous system involvement in adult patients with ALL.

Conclusions

FCM demonstrated a superior sensitivity over conventional cytology in the diagnosis of central nervous system involvement in adult patients with ALL. FCM+/CC− patients showed a similar survival with FCM+/CC+ patients, suggesting that an isolated FCM‐positive status holds clinical significance.
Is inpatient ictal video‐electroencephalographic monitoring mandatory in mesial temporal lobe epilepsy with unilateral hippocampal sclerosis? A prospective study
Authors: Alvim Marina K. M. , Morita Marcia E. , Yasuda Clarissa L. , Damasceno Benito P. , Lopes Tátila M. , Coan Ana Carolina , Ghizoni Enrico , Tedeschi Helder , Cendes Fernando
Published: December 2017

Objective

To compare surgical outcome in mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE) patients with unilateral hippocampal sclerosis (MTLE‐HS) who had or did not have preoperative video‐electroencephalographic monitoring (VEEG).

Methods

A prospective study was undertaken with 166 consecutive pharmacoresistant unilateral MTLE‐HS patients. All patients were investigated with detailed seizure semiology, serial routine outpatient EEG, magnetic resonance imaging, neuropsychological evaluation, and if necessary, other examinations. Postoperative follow‐up ranged between 2 and 16 years. Patients were divided into: (1) patients operated on based on routine outpatient EEG information, with >80% of EEGs with unilateral interictal epileptiform discharges (IEDs) ipsilateral to HS or ictal events (n = 71); and (2) patients submitted to preoperative VEEG (n = 95). To avoid the bias generated by ictal recordings, we performed a subanalysis of: (1) patients without preoperatively ictal recordings (n = 80) and (2) patients with ictal recordings in VEEG or routine outpatient EEG (n = 86).

Results

Groups were similar regarding gender, age at surgery, seizure onset, preoperative seizure frequency, and duration of follow‐up. Overall, 136/166 (81.92%) were classified as Engel I seizure outcome, with no difference between groups; 76.84% and 88.73% of patients with and without VEEG, respectively, had Engel I postoperative seizure outcome (P = .77). The time lag until surgery was shorter in the group without VEEG (80 vs 38 months; P = .01). Considering ictal recordings, 76.74% of patients with seizures recorded and 87.50% without ictal recordings had Engel I outcome (P = .11).

Significance

We performed the first prospective study in a tertiary epilepsy center comparing surgical outcomes in unilateral MTLE‐HS patients investigated preoperatively with and without VEEG. Based on the surgical outcome, VEEG is not imperative in patients with unilateral MTLE‐HS who have compatible semiology and clearly ipsilateralized IEDs evaluated by a multidisciplinary and experienced epilepsy group.
Fishery yields vary with land cover on the Amazon River floodplain
Authors: Castello Leandro , Hess Laura L , Thapa Ram , McGrath David G , Arantes Caroline C , Renó Vivian F , Isaac Victoria J
Published: December 2017

Inland fisheries underpin food security in many tropical countries. The most productive inland fisheries in tropical and subtropical developing countries occur in large river–floodplain systems that are often impacted by land cover changes. However, few studies to date have assessed the effects of changes in floodplain land cover on fishery yields. Here, we integrated fisheries and satellite‐mapped habitat data to evaluate the effects of floodplain deforestation on fishery yields in 68 floodplain lake systems of the lower Amazon River, representing a wide range in relative amounts of woody, herbaceous and non‐vegetated land cover. We modelled relative fish yields (fish capture per unit effort [CPUE]) in the floodplain lakes as a function of the relative amounts of forest, shrub, aquatic macrophyte and bare/herbaceous habitats surrounding them. We found that forest amount was positively related (p = .0003) to multispecies CPUE. The validity of these findings was supported by rejection of plausible alternative causative mechanisms involving habitat‐related differences in amount of piscivores, fishing effort, lake area, and habitat effects on CPUE of the nine taxa dominating multispecies yields. Our results provide support to the idea that removal of floodplain forests reduces fishery yields per unit effort. Increased protection of floodplain forests is necessary to maintain the food, income and livelihood security services provided by large river–floodplain fisheries.
Long‐term decline of native freshwater mussel assemblages in a federally protected river
Authors: Hornbach Daniel J. , Allen Daniel C. , Hove Mark C. , MacGregor Kelly R.
Published: December 2017

Freshwater systems are increasingly threatened by human impacts. To effectively monitor and manage these systems, reference or baseline conditions need to be documented to establish restoration or management goals.

Freshwater mussel (Unionoida) communities are in decline in many river systems worldwide. Yet there are few long‐term quantitative studies in relatively “pristine” habitats that could serve as “reference” locations. Here, we present the results of a 20‐year quantitative monitoring study of mussel assemblages in a federally protected river in the United States.

We found significant declines in mussel abundance (41%) and species richness (16%) over the 20‐year period, while mussel species evenness and Shannon's diversity index values increased over time (19.3% and 12.1%, respectively). This, combined with an analysis of community composition change trajectories, suggests the declines were disproportionately higher for common species than for rare species.

Variation in life‐history traits of macroinvertebrates is often used to assess the degree of degradation of aquatic systems. Using Haag's (2012) classification of mussel life‐history traits, we found the proportion of opportunistic species (fast growth, high reproductive output, short lifespan) decreased by 65.3%, while the proportion of equilibrium species (slow growth, long lifespan, lower investment in reproduction) increased by 54.6% and the proportion of periodic species (moderate‐to‐high growth rates, low‐to‐intermediate fecundity, lifespan and age at maturity) increased by 82.4%.

There were modest changes in human population and land use in the catchment during our study period, and a change in the operation of a hydroelectric dam reduced discharge variability. Sediment size changed at several study sites, increasing at some sites while decreasing at others.

This study occurred in one of the best‐protected and most pristine rivers in the upper Midwest of the United States, harbouring one of the region's most intact mussel fauna that could be used as a “reference” to set goals for the restoration of mussel fauna in other river systems. Despite the high quality and protection of this river system, we found slow declines in the mussel community but found no evidence that changes in land use, flow regime, water quality, the spread of invasive species or increased sedimentation were responsible for these declines. The slow decline of mussels and lack of specific causes in such a river underscore the imperilment of this fauna, and the need for more aggressive conservation, management and research approaches.
Comorbidity of chronic kidney disease, diabetes and lower glycated hemoglobin predicts support/care‐need certification in community‐dwelling older adults
Authors: Watanabe Keisuke , Okuro Masashi , Okuno Tazuo , Iritani Osamu , Yano Hiroshi , Himeno Taroh , Morita Takuro , Igarashi Yuta , Nakahashi Takeshi , Morimoto Shigeto
Published: December 2017

Aim

Chronic kidney disease (CKD), diabetes and lower glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) range in diabetes patients are associated with higher mortality. We investigated whether these conditions were associated with the risk of loss of independence in community‐dwelling older adults.

Methods

We analyzed 1078 older adults with no history of support/care‐need certification in Long‐Term Care Insurance aged 65–94 years. Associations of baseline CKD, diabetes, and lower HbA1c range of <6.0% in the diabetes patients, at baseline health checkup with risk of later certification and/or death for 5 years were estimated using the Cox proportional hazards regression model.

Results

The prevalence of both CKD and diabetes in the total population increased with age, due to a net increase in the coexistence of CKD and diabetes. The prevalence of the lower HbA1c range also increased with age in participants with the coexistence. During 5 years, 135 certifications and 53 deaths occurred. After adjustment, patients with comorbidity of the triad of CKD, diabetes and the lower HbA1c range had significantly higher hazard ratios (HR) for certification (HR 3.52, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.91–6.48, P < 0.001) and for death (HR 3.79, 95% CI 1.46–9.85, P = 0.006) compared with those without CKD and diabetes. The harmful impact of the lower HbA1c range on later certification compared with higher HbA1c range of ≥6.0% was maintained in diabetes patients with use of antidiabetic agents and CKD (HR 2.40, 95% CI 1.06–6.45, P = 0.036).

Conclusions

Excessive HbA1c reduction might cause discontinuance of disability‐free survival in community‐dwelling older diabetes patients with CKD. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 521–529.
Challenges in surgical pathology of adrenocortical tumours
Authors: Erickson Lori A.
Published: December 2017

Adrenocortical carcinomas are rare tumours that can be diagnostically challenging. Numerous multiparametric scoring systems and diagnostic algorithms have been proposed to differentiate adrenocortical adenoma from adrenocortical carcinoma. Adrenocortical neoplasms must also be differentiated from other primary adrenal tumours, such as phaeochromocytoma and unusual primary adrenal tumours, as well as metastases to the adrenal gland. Myxoid, oncocytic and sarcomatoid variants of adrenocortical tumours must be recognized so that they are not confused with other tumours. The diagnostic criteria for oncocytic adrenocortical carcinoma are different from those for conventional adrenocortical carcinomas. Adrenocortical neoplasms in children are particularly challenging to diagnose, as histological features of malignancy in adrenocortical neoplasms in adults may not be associated with aggressive disease in the tumours of children. Recent histological and immunohistochemical studies and more comprehensive and integrated genomic characterizations continue to advance our understanding of the tumorigenesis of these aggressive neoplasms, and may provide additional diagnostic and prognostic utility and guide the development of therapeutic targets.
What's new in pituitary pathology?
Authors: Asa Sylvia L , Mete Ozgur
Published: December 2017

The increasing recognition of pituitary disorders and their impact on quality of life and longevity has made understanding of this small gland a subject of paramount importance. Pituitary pathology has seen many significant studies that indicate progress in identification and classification of pituitary lesions, as well as improved management strategies for patients. In this review, we outline six major areas of advances: (i) changes in terminology from ‘adenoma’ to ‘pituitary neuroendocrine tumour’; (ii) reclassification of hormone‐negative tumours based on transcription factor expression that defines lineage; (iii) updates in new pathogenetic mechanisms, including those that underlie rare lesions such as X‐LAG and pituitary blastoma; (iv) clarification of hypophysitis due to immunotherapy, xanthomatous hypophysitis due to rupture of a Rathke's cleft cyst and IgG4 disease as the cause of inflammatory pseudotumour; (v) the consolidation of pituicytoma variants, including spindle cell oncocytoma and granular cell tumour based on thyroid transcription factor‐1 (TTF‐1) reactivity; and (vi) the pathogenetic mechanisms that distinguish papillary from adamantinomatous craniopharyngioma. The remaining challenge is clarification of the pathogenetic mechanisms underlying the development of many of these disorders.
Special types of thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Baloch Zubair W , LiVolsi Virginia A
Published: December 2017

This article reviews the small percentage of thyroid tumours that are not classified as classic papillary thyroid carcinoma, follicular thyroid carcinoma, and medullary thyroid carcinoma. It includes subtypes of papillary thyroid carcinoma, including, tall‐cell, hobnail/micropapillary, columnar cell, diffuse sclerosing and solid variants. Poorly differentiated carcinoma, high‐grade carcinoma and anaplastic thyroid carcinoma are reviewed. Also discussed are entities that are unusual but need to be recognized as primary thyroid neoplasms, i.e. mucoepidermoid carcinoma, sclerosing mucoepidermoid carcinoma with eosinophilia, and mammary analogue secretory carcinoma/secretory carcinoma. The pathological features and prognostic factors are described; a brief review of molecular correlates of these neoplasms is included.
Gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms: selected pathology review and molecular updates
Authors: Chai Siaw M , Brown Ian S , Kumarasinghe M Priyanthi
Published: December 2017

Gastroenteropancreatic (GEP) neuroendocrine neoplasms can be broadly separated into well‐ and poorly differentiated categories. Tumours within each category have similarities in morphology and immunophenotype, but vary in grade, behaviour, molecular signature and responses to therapy. The aetiology of these differences is multifactorial. Site of origin, mucosal milieu and hereditary influences are some of the currently known factors. Given these differences, staging and grading systems continue to evolve, and the most recent World Health Organization classification of pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms reflects this by introducing a grade 3 neuroendocrine tumour category for morphologically well‐differentiated tumours with an elevated Ki‐67 proliferation index and/or mitotic count. This review aims to highlight current classification guidelines with discussion of unique site‐specific features of selected GEP neuroendocrine neoplasms and an emphasis on practical issues related to daily reporting.
Pathology and genetics of phaeochromocytoma and paraganglioma
Authors: Turchini John , Cheung Veronica K Y , Tischler Arthur S , De Krijger Ronald R , Gill Anthony J
Published: December 2017

Phaeochromocytoma and paraganglioma (PHEO/PGL) are rare tumours with an estimated annual incidence of 3 per million. Advances in molecular understanding have led to the recognition that at least 30–40% arise in the setting of hereditary disease. Germline mutations in the succinate dehydrogenase genes SDHA, SDHB, SDHC, SDHD and SDHAF2 are the most prevalent of the more than 19 hereditary genetic abnormalities which have been reported. It is therefore recommended that, depending on local resources and availability, at least some degree of genetic testing should be offered to all PHEO/PGL patients, including those with clinically sporadic disease. It is now accepted that that all PHEO/PGL have some metastatic potential; therefore, concepts of benign and malignant PHEO/PGL have no meaning and have been replaced by a risk stratification approach. Although there is broad acceptance that certain features, including high proliferative activity, invasive growth, increased cellularity, large tumour nests and comedonecrosis, are associated with an increased risk of metastasis, it remains difficult to predict the clinical behaviour of individual tumours and no single risk stratification scheme is endorsed or in widespread use. In this review, we provide an update on advances in the pathology and genetics of PHEO/PGL with an emphasis on the changes introduced in the WHO 2017 classification of endocrine neoplasia relevant to practising surgical pathologists.
Well‐differentiated pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours (PanNETs) and poorly differentiated pancreatic neuroendocrine carcinomas (PanNECs): concepts, issues and a practical diagnostic approach to high‐grade (G3) cases
Authors: Singhi Aatur D , Klimstra David S
Published: December 2017

With increasing accessibility and advancements in abdominal imaging modalities, the incidence of pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms has increased steadily during the past few decades. By definition, neuroendocrine neoplasms of the pancreas show neuroendocrine differentiation, but they represent a broad and heterogeneous group of neoplasms with diverse clinical and pathological characteristics. The majority of pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms can be classified as well‐differentiated pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours (PanNETs) or poorly differentiated pancreatic neuroendocrine carcinomas (PanNECs). While PanNETs and PanNECs are distinct entities with respect to clinical presentation, outcome and therapeutic approach, they may exhibit overlapping histopathological features. Moreover, the frequent modifications in nomenclature and prognostic grading systems over the years of not only pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms, but neuroendocrine neoplasms from other organ sites, has created confusion for both pathologists and clinicians as to the appropriate use of terminology and grading when evaluating these neoplasms. This review examines the current concepts and issues of nomenclature and grading of PanNETs and PanNECs. In addition, considering the morphological overlap between high‐grade (G3) PanNETs and PanNECs, we discuss an integrative and practical diagnostic approach to aid in discriminating challenging cases.
A DEA‐based method of allocating the fixed cost as a complement to the original input
Authors: Lin Ruiyue , Chen Zhiping
Published: December 2017

This paper focuses on the problem of how to divide a fixed cost as a complement to an original input among decision‐making units (DMUs) equitably. Using the data envelopment analysis (DEA) technique, this paper concerns the problem from the perspective of efficiency analysis. It is found that not all DMUs can become efficient under common weights if a low enough fixed cost is assigned. Therefore, the global modified additive DEA (MAD) model is introduced. By optimizing the global MAD‐efficiency, a new allocation method and the corresponding algorithm to ensure the uniqueness of the allocation result is designed. The proposed method can be used under both constant returns to scale and variable returns to scale for nonnegative data; it is suitable for the situation where the costs play a great role in the production of DMUs. Numerical results show the validity and advantages of our method.
Effect of 670 nm laser photobiomodulation on vascular density and fibroplasia in late stages of tissue repair
Authors: Fortuna Tila , Gonzalez Ana Cristina , Sá Maíra F , Andrade Zilton de A , Reis Sílvia R A , Medrado Alena R A P
Published: December 2017

This study aimed to investigate the effects of gallium‐aluminum‐arsenium (GaAlAs) (670 nm) laser therapy on neoangiogenesis and fibroplasia during tissue remodelling. Forty male Wistar rats underwent cutaneous surgery and were divided into 2 experimental groups: the Control and Laser group (9 mW, 670 nm, 0.031 W/cm2, 4 J/cm2). After 14, 21, 28, and 35 days, the animals were euthanised. Descriptive and quantitative analyses were performed in sections stained with haematoxylin‐eosin and Sirius Red, respectively. The amounts of VEGF+ and CD31+ cells were evaluated by immunohistochemistry and histomorphometric analysis, respectively. Statistical analysis was performed using the Mann‐Whitney, Friedman, and Spearman correlation test, P < 0.05. The collagen expression was significantly higher in the laser group compared with the control group on days 14 and 21 after the creation of the skin wound (P = 0.008; P = 0.016) and in the control group between 14 and 28 and 14 and 35 days (P = 0.001; P = 0.007). There were more blood vessels in three periods of the study only in the (Laser) treated group, with statistical significance at day 14 (P = 0.016). There was no statistically significant difference in VEGF+ cell count in the different experimental groups throughout the study, although a positive correlation was shown with the area of collagen on days 14 and 28 (P = 0.037). Laser treatment had a positive effect in the late course of healing, particularly with regards to collagen expression and the number of newly formed vessels. VEGF+ cells were present in both experimental groups, and VEGF appeared to influence fibroplasia in the treated group.
Barriers to the use of emergency medical services for ST‐elevation myocardial infarction: Determining why many patients opt for self‐transport
Authors: Mercuri Mathew , Connolly Katherine , Natarajan Madhu K. , Welsford Michelle , Schwalm JD
Published: December 2017

Rationale, aims, and objectives

Access to timely ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) care is facilitated by paramedics and emergency medical services (EMS). However, a large proportion of STEMI patients do not access care through EMS. This study sought to identify patient‐reported factors for their decision to use (or not use) EMS.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with a sample of STEMI patients admitted to a large tertiary care centre between November 2011 and January 2012. Participants were grouped according to mode of transportation to hospital at time of index event (EMS vs self‐transport). Participant responses were classified using a published framework (modified for a STEMI population) as barriers or facilitators to EMS use, and compared between groups.

Results

Data were collected on 61 patients (32 EMS, 29 self‐transport). Mean age was 60.3 (SD 11.5), and 23% were female. EMS users were more likely to have a Killip Class >1 (25% vs 4%; P = 0.03). Self‐transport patients were more likely to perceive EMS as slower (48% vs 0%) and express concerns over resources misuse (34% vs 3%; P = 0.002), when compared to EMS patients. Patients who accessed EMS were more likely to acknowledge the benefits of EMS (44% vs 7%; P = 0.001) and were more likely to have been encouraged by a family member to call EMS (34% vs 4%; P = 0.003).

Conclusions

STEMI patient perceptions are a key factor in determining EMS use. Health care stakeholders should target the identified barriers to improve utilization of EMS, and develop strategies to optimize care for patients who do not access EMS.
Structure and composition of Unio pictorum shell: arguments for the diversity of the nacroprismatic arrangement in molluscs
Authors: DAUPHIN Y. , LUQUET G. , SALOME M. , BELLOT‐GURLET L. , CUIF J.P.
Published: December 2017

Mollusc shells are complex organomineral structures, the arrangement and composition depending on the species. Most studies are dedicated to shells composed of an aragonite nacreous and a calcite prismatic layer, so the nacreous prismatic model based on Pinctada and Atrina–Pinna. Here, we studied the micro‐ and nanostructure, the mineralogy and composition of a nacroprismatic bivalve species: Unio pictorum. The prismatic layer of Unio is aragonite, and the inner structure of the prismatic units strongly differs from those of the calcitic layers. The shape of the prisms varies depending on their growth stage. The first layers of nacre are similar to those of gastropods (columnar nacre), then evolve towards the typical bivalve arrangement (sheet nacre). Na, Sr, Mg, P and S are present in both prisms and nacre. The organic prismatic envelopes are rich in sulphur amino acids, whereas organic sulphate is present within the prisms and the nacreous tablets. P is present as phosphate, probably a mixture of organic and mineral complex. Chemical distribution maps confirm the absence of an organic membrane between the nacre and the prisms. The comparison of the structure, mineralogy and composition of Unio pictorum and different species show the diversity of nacroprismatic shells, and that these features are taxonomically dependent.
A spontaneously immortalized Schwann cell line from aldose reductase‐deficient mice as a useful tool for studying polyol pathway and aldehyde metabolism
Authors: Niimi Naoko , Yako Hideji , Takaku Shizuka , Kato Hiroshi , Matsumoto Takafumi , Nishito Yasumasa , Watabe Kazuhiko , Ogasawara Saori , Mizukami Hiroki , Yagihashi Soroku , Chung Sookja K. , Sango Kazunori
Published: December 2017

The increased glucose flux into the polyol pathway via aldose reductase (AR) is recognized as a major contributing factor for the pathogenesis of diabetic neuropathy, whereas little is known about the functional significance of AR in the peripheral nervous system. Spontaneously immortalized Schwann cell lines established from long‐term cultures of AR‐deficient and normal C57BL/6 mouse dorsal root ganglia and peripheral nerves can be useful tools for studying the physiological and pathological roles of AR. These cell lines, designated as immortalized knockout AR Schwann cells 1 (IKARS1) and 1970C3, respectively, demonstrated distinctive Schwann cell phenotypes, such as spindle‐shaped morphology and immunoreactivity to S100, p75 neurotrophin receptor, and vimentin, and extracellular release of neurotrophic factors. Conditioned media obtained from these cells promoted neuronal survival and neurite outgrowth of cultured adult mouse dorsal root ganglia neurons. Microarray and real‐time RT‐PCR analyses revealed significantly down‐regulated mRNA expression of polyol pathway‐related enzymes, sorbitol dehydrogenase and ketohexokinase, in IKARS1 cells compared with those in 1970C3 cells. In contrast, significantly up‐regulated mRNA expression of aldo‐keto reductases (AKR1B7 and AKR1B8) and aldehyde dehydrogenases (ALDH1L2, ALDH5A1, and ALDH7A1) was detected in IKARS1 cells compared with 1970C3 cells. Exposure to reactive aldehydes (3‐deoxyglucosone, methylglyoxal, and 4‐hydroxynonenal) significantly up‐regulated the mRNA expression of AKR1B7 and AKR1B8 in IKARS1 cells, but not in 1970C3 cells. Because no significant differences in viability between these two cell lines after exposure to these aldehydes were observed, it can be assumed that the aldehyde detoxification is taken over by AKR1B7 and AKR1B8 in the absence of AR.

image
Removal of epileptically compromised tissue in the frontal cortex restores oculomotor selection in the antisaccade task
Authors: Van der Stigchel Stefan , Leijten Frans S. S. , Vansteensel Mariska J. , Dijkerman Hendrik Chris , Ramsey Nick F. , Freudenburg Zachary V.
Published: December 2017

The frontal cortex is heavily involved in oculomotor selection. Here, we investigated the neural correlates of eye movement selection during an antisaccade task in a young epileptic patient in whom the seizure focus included the frontal cortex and affected its function. Before resection surgery, the patient had difficulty in performing correct antisaccades towards the visual field contralateral to the seizure focus. Because the FEF is the only area in the human frontal cortex that is known to have a lateralized oculomotor function in the antisaccade task, this behavioural imbalance between the two visual fields suggests a disruption of FEF functioning by the nearby seizure focus. Electrocorticographic recordings at the seizure focus indeed showed that the seizure focus interfered with correct antisaccade performance. These results were in line with fMRI recordings revealing less task‐related frontal activity for the hemisphere of the seizure focus, possibly reflecting diminished top‐down engagement of the oculomotor system. Two months after removal of the compromised tissue, the seizures had disappeared, and antisaccade performance was the same for both visual hemifields. We conclude that a seizure focus in the frontal cortex can induce a dysfunction in the selection of eye movements, which is resolved after removal of interfering tissue.
Evolution of skull shape in the family Salamandridae (Amphibia: Caudata)
Authors: Ivanović Ana , Arntzen Jan W.
Published: December 2017

We carried out a comparative morphometric analysis of 56 species of salamandrid salamanders, representing 19 out of 21 extant genera, with the aim of uncovering the major patterns of skull shape diversification, and revealing possible trends and directions of evolutionary change. To do this we used micro‐computed tomography scanning and three‐dimensional geometric morphometrics, along with a well‐resolved molecular phylogeny. We found that allometry explains a relatively small amount of shape variation across taxa. Congeneric species of salamandrid salamanders are more similar to each other and cluster together producing distinct groups in morphospace. We detected a strong phylogenetic signal and little homoplasy. The most pronounced changes in the skull shape are related to the changes of the frontosquamosal arch, a unique feature of the cranial skeleton for the family Salamandridae, which is formed by processes arising from the frontal and squamosal bones that arch over the orbits. By mapping character states over the phylogeny, we found that a reduction of the frontosquamosal arch occurs independently in three lineages of the subfamily Pleurodelinae. This reduction can probably be attributed to changes in the development and ossification rates of the frontosquamosal arch. In general, our results are similar to those obtained for caecilian amphibians, with an early expansion into the available morphospace and a complex history characterizing evolution of skull shape in both groups. To evaluate the specificity of the inferred evolutionary trajectories and Caudata‐wide trends in the diversity of skull morphology, information from additional groups of tailed amphibians is needed.