bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feedback a learning tool for future organizations
Authors: Salah Salmi , Rachid Chaib
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to provide means of reflection on the skill acquired during accidents occurring in normal and disorganized situations as well as to draw the consequences, memorize and reuse them in order to avoid them in the future.

Design/methodology/approach

We perceive the external and familiar manifestations of the use of electricity such as light, heat and motion. The lack of a direct visual perception of this type of energy often leads to serious consequences caused by either ignored or underestimated risks. The severity of accidents related to electrical risk remains high: nearly 1 in 100 deaths was caused by electricity in 2010. In Algeria, nearly 180 deaths per year are electricity-related; electricity is also the cause of 20 per cent of fires. As the prevention of this risk affects many sectors, apart from power generation and power distribution networks, workers in all types of work areas, from construction to maintenance, are likely to be exposed to electrical hazards.

Findings

The results of this study imply that any workplace can face an electrical accident. Therefore, in this work, the authors have attempted to create a memory of risks, based on the feedback of fatal adverse events manifested in a national company, Sonelgaz, in Algeria. Asystematic analysis of these three fatal accidents allows prediction of possible dangerous situations and helps to better plan the objective prevention of such future incidents.

Originality/value

The lack of direct visual perception of this type of energy often leads to serious consequences caused by ignored or underestimated risks. The severity of accidents related to electrical risk remains high: nearly one over 100 deaths are because of electricity in 2010. In Algeria, the authors recorded nearly 180 deaths per year; it is also the cause of 20 per cent of fires. As now, because the prevention of this risk affects many sectors, apart from power generation and power distribution networks, all types of work, from construction to maintenance are likely to expose workers to electrical hazards. This implies that any company can face an electrical accident. Therefore, in this work the authors try to create a memory of risks, based on the feedback of fatal adverse events manifested in the national company Sonelgaz in Algeria.
Ex situ cultivation entails high risk of seed dormancy loss on short‐lived wild plant species
Authors: Ensslin Andreas , Van de Vyver Ann , Vanderborght Thierry , Godefroid Sandrine
Published: November 2017

Changes in life‐history traits such as seed dormancy during cultivation of wild plant species in ex situ facilities could jeopardize conservation actions including revegetation and plant reintroductions, but the magnitude of these risks and their spread across different plant taxa is unknown.

We explored whether plants cultivated in the Botanic Garden Meise differ in seed germination characteristics from plants from natural populations. Using a Bayesian approach of a phylogenetically informed generalized linear mixed model, we analysed germination tests of 72 herbaceous plant species from 27 plant families, originating from the cultivation beds in Meise as well as directly from wild populations. We investigated whether garden‐collected seeds differ in germination percentage, seed dormancy and germination speed from wild‐collected seeds. Furthermore, by analysing literature‐collected information of 24 life‐history traits, we sought to identify potential selection pressures causing these germination changes in order to refine conservation protocols and practices.

We found a strong increase of germination percentage and a loss of seed dormancy in garden seeds compared to wild seeds across all species. However, these differences vanished with increasing storage time of the seeds as a result of decreased seed viability with seed ageing over time.

Furthermore, traits associated with the life span of the species influenced the germination difference between cultivated and wild seeds, and short‐lived species were particularly vulnerable to the loss of dormancy, while no difference could be detected between wild and cultivated perennial species.

Synthesis and applications. Through a multispecies approach, we show that dormancy loss is a common phenomenon in ex situ collections of short‐lived wild plant species. This has wide implications for the use and procedure of ex situ‐reared plant material for restoration and reintroduction measures. We suggest that effective dormancy breaking and temporal distribution of seedling plantation during propagation should be incorporated in restoration and reintroduction protocols to minimize unwanted changes in seed traits. Furthermore, we caution against the use of seeds from cultivated plants for basic seed ecology research such as germination requirements and seed storage behaviour.
Ameliorative effects of riboflavin on acetic acid‐induced colonic injury in rats
Authors: Karakoyun Berna , Ertaş Büşra , Yüksel Meral , Akakın Dilek , Çevik Özge , Şener Göksel
Published: November 2017

Riboflavin (RF) has been found to be a promising antioxidant and/or anti‐inflammatory agent in several studies. However, the effect of RF against acetic acid (AA)‐induced colonic injury is currently unknown. This study aimed to investigate the potential antioxidant and protective effects of RF in a rat model of ulcerative colitis. Starting immediately after the colitis induction (AA+RF group) or 1 week before the colitis induction (RF+AA+RF group), the rats were treated with RF (25 mg/kg per day; p.o.) for 3 days. The control and AA groups received saline (1 mL; p.o.) whereas AA+SS group (positive control) received sulfasalazine (100 mg/kg per day; p.o.) for 3 days. Colonic samples were taken for the biochemical and histological assessments on the third day. High damage scores, elevated tissue wet weight index (WI), tissue myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, 8‐hydroxy‐2′‐deoxyguanosine levels and chemiluminescence values, and a pronounced decrease in antioxidant glutathione (GSH) levels of the AA group were all reversed by RF pretreatment (RF+AA+RF group) and SS treatment (AA+SS group) (P < .05‐.001). Tissue WI, MPO activity and GSH levels were not statistically changed in the AA+RF group. Western blot analysis revealed that the decreased protein expressions of tissue collagen (COL) 1A1, COL3A1 and transforming growth factor‐β1 in the AA group were elevated in all the treatment groups (P < .05‐.001). In conclusion, RF exerts both the antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory effects against AA‐induced colonic inflammation by suppressing neutrophil accumulation, inhibiting reactive oxidant generation, preserving endogenous glutathione, improving oxidative DNA damage and regulating inflammatory mediators, suggesting a future potential role in the treatment and prevention of ulcerative colitis.
Resveratrol protects Leydig cells from nicotine‐induced oxidative damage through enhanced autophagy
Authors: Liu Shengxian , Sun Yuqin , Li Zhaomin
Published: November 2017

Some studies have revealed that nicotine can damage the male reproductive system through various means including oxidative stress, which is a primary factor in the pathogenesis of male infertility. The strong anti‐oxidative capacity of resveratrol has been demonstrated previously, but its role in the context of male reproduction remains inconclusive. To explore the biological role of resveratrol in protecting male reproductive function and the potential underlying mechanism, nicotine‐induced Leydig cells were used as a cell model of oxidative damage. The data showed that resveratrol treatment increased cell viability, SOD activity and anti‐apoptotic activity in nicotine‐stressed Leydig cells. This effect was accompanied by the upregulation of autophagy, which was illustrated by MDC‐LysoTracker red staining. Moreover, pretreating with 3‐methyladenine (3‐MA), an autophagy inhibitor, attenuated resveratrol‐induced Leydig cells autophagy and promoted apoptosis. Apart from this, resveratrol enhanced AMPK phosphorylation but reduced mTOR phosphorylation. Subsequently, upon inhibiting AMPK phosphorylation by AMPK inhibitors, Leydig cell autophagy induced by resveratrol was obviously abolished. In conclusion, resveratrol may exert its cytoprotective role against oxidative injury by the activation of autophagy via AMPK/mTOR pathway.
The relationship of character reading and spelling: A longitudinal study in Chinese
Authors: Li Liping , Wu Xinchun , Cheng Yahua , Nguyen Thi Phuong
Published: November 2017

Background

The aim of this longitudinal study was to examine the relationship between character reading and spelling and to explore the role of reading‐related skills in Chinese literacy.

Methods

A test battery that included measures of morphological awareness (homophone awareness and compound word awareness), orthographic awareness, rapid automatised naming, character reading, spelling, and IQ was administered to 127 first grade students from two primary schools in mainland China.

Results

Controlling for IQ and age, the results of hierarchical regressive analyses revealed that prior reading affected subsequent spelling, and character reading Time 1 predicted spelling Time 2, β value was 0.20; character reading Time 2 predicted spelling Time 3, β value was 0.40. However, prior spelling did not affect subsequent reading. In addition, compound word awareness Time 2 and orthographic awareness Time 2 were found to mediate character reading Time 1 and spelling Time 3.

Conclusions

This study suggests that reading influences spelling across time points from grade 1 to grade 2, and compound word awareness and orthographic awareness play important mediator roles in the process.
The moral economy of ready‐made food
Authors: Wheeler Kathryn
Published: November 2017

The aim of this paper is to develop and apply a framework to explore how moralities of consumption are constituted in and through markets. Using the case of ready‐made foods, this paper argues moral economies are comprised through interactions between micro‐, meso‐ and macro‐level processes in the form of instituted systems of provision, state regulation, collective food customs promoted though media, NGOs and lifestyle practitioners, and the everyday reflections of consumers. Building on a theoretical framework developed to understand the moral economy of work and employment (Bolton and Laaser 2013), this paper explores how markets for ready‐made food are incessantly negotiated in the context of moral ideas about cooking, femininity and individual responsibility. It focuses on ‘new’ market innovations of fresh ready‐to‐cook meal solutions and explores how these products are both a response to moralizing discourses about cooking ‘properly’, as well as an intervention into the market that offers opportunities for new moral identities to be performed. Using data gathered from interviews with food manufacturers and consumers, I advocate for a multi‐layered perspective that captures the dynamic interplay between consumers, markets and moralities of consumption.
Survey of disability‐related content in Australian dietetics programs
Authors: Butler Shannon , Kellett Jane , Bacon Rachel , Byron Annette
Published: November 2017

Aim

Nutrition and dietetic services are an important component of healthcare for people living with a disability. The introduction of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) in Australia is providing more opportunities for individuals to access these services from an Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD). The aim of this research was to identify how students in Australian tertiary dietetics programs are being prepared to provide these services to people with a disability.

Methods

A purpose‐built questionnaire with eight open‐ended questions was developed by the researchers to describe the disability‐related content of university and professional placement learning opportunities and was distributed to all course conveners (or their nominated representative) of dietetics programs accredited by the Dietitians Association of Australia. The qualitative data were analysed using a descriptive approach. Responses were sorted into response category themes and counted to identify common themes.

Results

A representative from 14 of 18 programs (78% response rate) participated in the survey in September and October 2016. Results indicated that although 12 programs incorporate disability‐related topics into the curriculum, content was inconsistent and of varying depths. Four programs offered a disability‐specific placement opportunity and nine discussed the NDIS to varying degrees.

Conclusions

It is important that graduates are provided with adequate learning opportunities in the area of disability to ensure that they are prepared for entry‐level practise in this area. Further research may provide insight into the skills, knowledge and behaviours used by APDs working in disability to identify those that need to be strengthened in dietetics programs.
Development of Mayonnaise with Substitution of Oil or Egg Yolk by the Addition of Chia (Salvia Hispânica L.) Mucilage
Authors: Fernandes Sibele Santos , Mellado Myriam de las Mercedes Salas
Published: November 2017

Chia mucilage is formed by the hydration of chia seeds and presents characteristics that potentiate its application as substitute of fat in several foods. In this study, mayonnaises were prepared with different levels of freeze‐dried chia mucilage instead of oil or egg yolk. The substitution of oil in mayonnaise promoted increased stability and texture parameters, and the mayonnaise substituted by egg yolk presented similar stability and texture parameters as the control mayonnaise. The substitution of oil in mayonnaise was about 50% with 45% oil substitution, whereas for the mayonnaise with 35% of egg yolk replacement it was about 0.94%. Sensorially, an inverse relation was found, the mayonnaises with substitution of the egg yolk that presented a smaller reduction of the lipid content, presented better sensory acceptance than the mayonnaise with substitution of the oil. Therefore, the results indicated that chia mucilage has potential to substitute part of the amount of oil in the mayonnaise formulation. As for the use of the mucilage in the substitution of the egg yolk, it is not possible to promote a significant reduction in the lipid content nor maintain emulsion stability.

Practical Application

Chia mucilage presents high emulsifying hability and water‐holding capacity that potentiabilize its use as a substitute for fat in various foods. Mayonnaises developed with up to 45% oil substitution by chia mucilage, presented a reduction in the lipid content by about 50%, an increasing stability and a good sensorial acceptance.
Reverse Effect ofOpuntia ficus‐indicaL. Juice and Seeds Aqueous Extract on Gastric Emptying and Small‐Bowel Motility in Rat
Authors: Rtibi Kaïs , Selmi Slimen , Saidani Khouloud , Grami Dhekra , Amri Mohamed , Sebai Hichem , Marzouki Lamjed
Published: November 2017

This study was conducted to compare the effects of juice and seeds on gastric emptying, small‐bowel motility and intestinal ion transport. Separate groups of rats were randomized to receive NaCl, increasing doses of juice (5, 10, and 20 mL/kg, b.w.) or seeds aqueous extract (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg, b.w.). Simultaneously, two other groups were received, the reference drugs; clonidine (1 mg/kg) and yohimbine (2 mg/kg). The charcoal meal was used as a suspension for gastrointestinal motility test. The purgative action of juice was confirmed using the loperamide (5 mg/kg, p.o.) induced constipation. To evaluate the antisecretory effect, we were used as a hypersecretion agent, the castor oil at the dose of 5 mL/kg. Compared to the control and standard groups, we were showed that the prickly pear has an opposite effect on small‐bowel motility and gastric emptying. Indeed, the juice at various doses has a laxative effect of gastrointestinal transit in healthy and constipated‐rats. However, the aqueous extract of the seeds leads to a reduction of motility in normal rats which gives it a remarkable antidiarrhoeal activity, a notable intestinal fluid accumulation decline and electrolyte concentrations reestablishment. Moreover, orally juice administered at different doses accelerated the stomach emptying time in contrast to the seeds aqueous extract. More importantly, a significant variation in the phytochemical constituents levels between juice and seeds was found. These findings confirm the reverse therapeutic effects of this fruit in the treatment of digestive disturbances such as difficulty stool evacuation and massive intestinal secretion, likewise, the gastric emptying process perturbation.
Hours worked and patient visits provided by dentists in Australia
Authors: Brennan DS , Chrisopoulos S , Teusner DN
Published: November 2017

Background

The aim was to examine the numbers of hours worked and patient visits provided by age and gender of dentists in Australia, and compare with previous estimates to describe trends.

Methods

Data were collected from a random sample (N = 2961) of Australian dentists. Private sector dentists working in clinical practise were included in the analysis.

Results

The response rate was 49% (N = 1345 dentists). Hours per year worked and number of patient visits per year were lower for dentists aged 65 years and older compared with younger dentists, and were higher for male compared with female dentists aged 35–45 to 55–64 years. Hours per year worked were lower in 2013–2014 than reported in 2009–2010, but the number of patient visits in 2013–2014 was similar to the previously reported estimate from 2009–2010.

Conclusions

Hours worked and visits provided were only lower among older dentists aged 65 years or more. Male dentists tend to work more hours per year and provide more patient visits per year than female dentists. Over the last decade, Australian dentists maintained a stable output of visits per year despite a trend towards fewer hours worked per year.
Revision of Scatella (Neoscatella) (Diptera: Ephydridae) from the New Zealand subregion
Authors: Costa Daniel N R , Mathis Wayne N , Marinoni Luciane
Published: November 2017

The three species of the subgenus Neoscatella Malloch, 1933 within the genus Scatella Robineau‐Desvoidy, 1830 from the New Zealand subregion are revised: Scatella (Neoscatella) nelsoni Tonnoir & Malloch, 1926 and Scatella (Neoscatella) vittithorax Malloch, 1925 and a new species, Scatella (Neoscatella) moriori Mathis & Costa sp. nov., from Chatham Island. For perspective, diagnoses for Scatella and Neoscatella are provided, and to facilitate identification of Neoscatella and its species from the New Zealand subregion, keys to subgenera and species are provided as well as figures of wings and structures of male terminalia. Where information is available, we comment on the natural history of the species.
Marijuana use and associated motives in Colorado university students
Authors: Phillips Kristina T. , Lalonde Trent L. , Phillips Michael M. , Schneider Maryia M.
Published: November 2017

Background and Objectives

Marijuana is the most commonly used illicit drug among college students, with heavy use leading to negative outcomes. Use of marijuana for medical and recreational purposes in select U.S. states has been controversial, with concerns surrounding increased prevalence rates and harm. The current exploratory study aimed to assess marijuana use in college students in Colorado, demographic differences in frequency of use, and motives for using.

Methods

College students (N = 300; 61% female) were recruited through introductory psychology courses and completed a series of questionnaires and a marijuana urine screen.

Results

Almost three‐fourths of the sample reported lifetime use of marijuana. Sixty‐five percent used marijuana within the last year and 29% tested positive on the urine screen. Hurdle Poisson regression models with a subset of participants (n = 117) showed non‐Greek and freshman status were associated with increased number of days participants used marijuana in the last month. Problem marijuana use was positively associated with a range of motives—of note—motives focused on coping, boredom, alcohol, and food.

Conclusions and Scientific Significance

Prevalence rates of marijuana use were high in this sample of college students in a state with legal recreational marijuana use. Particular students (eg, students who use marijuana to cope) may be at higher risk for problem marijuana use. Developing effective, tailored interventions for university students is warranted. (Am J Addict 2017;26:830–837)
Intravenous fluid therapy in acute pancreatitis: a critical review of the randomized trials
Authors: Thomson Andrew
Published: November 2017

Introduction

Fluid management is a cornerstone of treatment in acute pancreatitis (AP).

Methods

Identification of existing randomized prospective trials of patients with AP, in which intravenous fluid management was a significant parameter in the experimental design, was undertaken using the PubMed and ENDOBASE databases.

Results

Included patients in the seven studies identified were on the whole very unwell with deaths occurring in six trials. Fluid regimens in AP included crystalloid alone, combinations of crystalloid and colloid and in two studies, plasma. In most studies, patients with premorbid major organ failure and advanced age were excluded. Study entry within 6 h of presentation occurred in three trials. Initial fluid administration rates varied from 1 to 2 mL/kg/h to 15 mL/kg/h. Rapid fluid rates were associated with increased morbidity and mortality except in one study in which a high fluid regimen (20 mL/kg bolus within 4 h of presentation followed by 3 mL/kg) led to a better clinical outcome than a more conservative regimen. Use of Ringer's lactate led to improved surrogate outcome markers compared to that of normal saline in one study. Administration of colloid as part of the fluid management was associated with lower morbidity and lower fluid requirements.

Conclusion

Rapid infusion of crystalloid very early in the course of AP may be beneficial but rapid infusion of fluid later in the course of the illness may be deleterious. Colloid administration and the use of Ringer's lactate solution in preference to normal saline may improve outcome.
Nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs and anastomotic dehiscence after colorectal surgery: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Huang Yeqian , Tang Stephen R. , Young Christopher J.
Published: November 2017

Background

Enhanced recovery after surgery protocols supports the post‐operative use of nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to minimize the use of opioids. However, there is an increasing concern on the impaired wound healing of anastomosis associated with NSAID use, potentially causing a higher risk of anastomotic leakage. The aim was to conduct a meta‐analysis to evaluate the association of NSAIDs with anastomotic leakage after colorectal surgery.

Methods

A literature search was conducted using the MEDLINE, PubMed, Cochrane Library and Clinicaltrial.gov. Studies identified were appraised with standard selection criteria. Data points were extracted and meta‐analysis was performed based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses.

Results

Seventeen studies comprising of 26 098 patients were examined. The analysis of all studies showed a significantly lower rate of anastomotic dehiscence in the no‐NSAID group (pooled odds ratio (OR) = 2.00, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.48–2.71, P < 0.00001). The analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) demonstrates similar dehiscence rates between both groups (P = 0.17). In subgroup analysis, non‐selective NSAIDs was associated with a higher risk of anastomotic dehiscence (pooled OR = 2.02, 95% CI = 1.62–2.50, P < 0.00001). However, there was no difference in the incidence of anastomotic leakage between no‐NSAID group and selective NSAID group (P = 0.05).

Conclusion

Use of NSAIDs after colorectal surgery may be associated with a higher risk of anastomotic leakage. It is important to balance between the benefits of faster post‐operative recovery and potential adverse effects of NSAIDs. Selective NSAIDs may be safer than non‐selective ones. More RCTs are warranted to further evaluate the relationship between anastomotic leakage and use of NSAIDs, especially selective ones.
Safety and efficacy of pomalidomide, dexamethasone and pegylated liposomal doxorubicin for patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma
Authors: Cohen Alexa , Spektor Tanya M. , Stampleman Laura , Bessudo Alberto , Rosen Peter J. , Klein Leonard M. , Woliver Thomas , Flam Marshall , Eshaghian Shahrooz , Nassir Youram , Maluso Tina , Swift Regina A. , Vescio Robert , Berenson James R.
Published: November 2017

Immunomodulatory drugs including thalidomide, lenalidomide (LEN) and pomalidomide (POM), are effective for treating multiple myeloma (MM). POM has shown enhanced efficacy with dexamethasone (DEX). Pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD) with bortezomib is US Food and Drug Administration‐approved for treating MM. PLD with LEN or thalidomide has shown efficacy for MM patients. LEN with DEX, PLD and bortezomib achieves high response rates. We evaluated the combination of POM with DEX 40 mg and PLD 5 mg/m2 with the latter two drugs administered on days 1, 4, 8 and 11 on a 28‐day cycle for the treatment of relapsed/refractory MM patients. During Phase 1, the maximum tolerated dose of POM was 4 mg, and was used in Phase 2, which also required patients to be refractory to LEN. However, neutropenia ≥ grade 3 was observed in 10/17 (59%) patients, and the dose was lowered to 3 mg. Median PFS was 5·4 months (range, 0·3–29·0 +  months). Overall response rates for patients in Phase 2 were 39% and 31% among subjects receiving POM at 3 mg and 4 mg, respectively, and clinical benefit rates were 51% and 44%, respectively. POM, PLD and DEX is a treatment option for relapsed/refractory MM patients including those who are refractory to LEN.
The absolute percent deviation of IGHV mutation rather than a 98% cut‐off predicts survival of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia patients treated with fludarabine, cyclophosphamide and rituximab
Authors: Jain Preetesh , Nogueras González Graciela M. , Kanagal‐Shamanna Rashmi , Rozovski Uri , Sarwari Nawid , Tam Constantine , Wierda William G. , Thompson Philip A. , Jain Nitin , Luthra Rajyalakshmi , Quesada Andres , Sanchez‐Petitto Gabriela , Ferrajoli Alessandra , Burger Jan , Kantarjian Hagop , Cortes Jorge , O'Brien Susan , Keating Michael J. , Estrov Zeev
Published: November 2017

The degree of somatic hypermutation, determined as percent deviation of immunoglobulin heavy chain gene variable region sequence from the germline (IGHV%), is an important prognostic factor in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL). Currently, a cut‐off of 2% deviation or 98% sequence identity to germline in IGHV sequence is routinely used to dichotomize CLL patients into mutated and unmutated groups. Because dissimilar IGHV% cut‐offs of 1–5% were identified in different studies, we wondered whether no cut‐off should be applied and IGHV% treated as a continuous variable. We analysed the significance of IGHV% in 203 CLL patients enrolled on the original frontline fludarabine, cyclophosphamide and rituximab (FCR) trial with a median of 10 years follow‐up. Using the Cox Proportional Hazard model, IGHV% was identified as a continuous variable that is significantly associated with progression‐free (PFS) and overall survival (OS) (P < 0·001). Furthermore, we validated this finding in 323 patients treated with FCR off‐protocol and in the total cohort (n = 535). Multivariate analysis revealed a continuous trend. Higher IGHV% levels were incrementally associated with favorable PFS and OS in both FCR‐treated cohorts (P < 0·001, both cohorts). Taken together, our data suggest that IGHV% is a continuous variable in CLL patients treated with FCR.
Virtual morality in the helping professions: Simulated action and resilience
Authors: Francis Kathryn B. , Gummerum Michaela , Ganis Giorgio , Howard Ian S. , Terbeck Sylvia
Published: November 2017

Recent advances in virtual technologies have allowed the investigation of simulated moral actions in aversive moral dilemmas. Previous studies have employed diverse populations to explore these actions, with little research considering the significance of occupation on moral decision‐making. For the first time, in this study we have investigated simulated moral actions in virtual reality made by professionally trained paramedics and fire service incident commanders who are frequently faced with and must respond to moral dilemmas. We found that specially trained individuals showed distinct empathic and related personality trait scores and that these declined with years of experience working in the profession. Supporting the theory that these professionals develop resilience in moral conflict, reduced emotional arousal was observed during virtual simulations of a distressing dilemma. Furthermore, trained professionals demonstrated less regret following the execution of a moral action in virtual reality when compared to untrained control populations. We showed that, contrary to previous research, trained individuals made the same moral judgements and moral actions as untrained individuals, though showing less arousal and regret. In the face of increasing concerns regarding empathy decline in health care professionals, we suggest that the nature of this decline is complex and likely reflects the development of a necessary emotional resilience to distressing events.
Considerations in fertility preservation in cases of testicular trauma
Authors: Starmer Benjamin Z. , Baird Andrew , Lucky Marc A.
Published: November 2017

Objective

To perform a review of the literature to assess the options for preserving fertility in patients with fertility threatening testicular injuries and their effectiveness to help guide surgeons who encounter these patients in the future.

Materials and methods

Medline, Embase and Cochrane library databases were searched using the keywords ‘treatment’, ‘therapy’, ‘management’, ‘scrotal trauma/injury’, ‘testicular trauma/injury/amputation’, ‘fertility’, and ‘fertility preservation’. The inclusion criteria were studies reporting fertility preserving techniques with a history of testicular trauma with loss of one, both, or nearly all testicular parenchymal tissue.

Results

Two cases of testicular sperm extraction (TESE), eight cases of testicular replantation, and one case of cryopreservation after injury were identified. Presence of viable sperm after surgery was found in five of 11 patients. Common reasons for failure of replantation were prolonged ischaemic time and extensive crush injury to the vascular supply of the testis. Both cases of TESE and the single cryopreservation case obtained viable sperm.

Conclusion

Scrotal trauma with threat to fertility is rare. It is important that urologists should consider fertility in any situation where complete or a large amount of testicular tissue loss is at risk of occurring and offer fertility preservation options as locally available.
Mechanism of doxorubicin cardiotoxicity evaluated by integrating multiple molecular effects into a biophysical model
Authors: Fernandez‐Chas M , Curtis M J , Niederer S A
Published: November 2017

Background and Purpose

Doxorubicin (DOX) is an effective cancer therapeutic agent but causes therapy‐limiting cardiotoxicity. The effects of DOX and its metabolite doxorubicinol (DOXL) on individual channels have been well characterized in isolation. However, it is unknown how the action and interaction of affected channels combine to generate the phenotypic cardiotoxic outcome. We sought to develop an in silico model that links drug effects on channels to action potential duration (APD) and intracellular Ca2+ concentration in order to address this gap in knowledge.

Experimental Approach

We first propose two methods to obtain, from published values, consensus drug effects on the currents of individual channels, transporters and pumps. Separately, we obtained equivalent values for APD and Ca2+ concentration (the readouts used as surrogates for cardiotoxicity). Once derived, the consensus effects on the currents were incorporated into established biophysical models of the cardiac myocyte and were refined adjusting the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ leak current (ILeak) until the consensus effects on APD and Ca2+ dynamics were replicated. Using factorial analysis, we then quantified the relative contribution of each channel to DOX and DOXL cardiotoxicity.

Key Results

The factorial analysis identified the rapid delayed rectifying K+ current, the L‐type Ca2+ current and the sarcoplasmic reticulum ILeak as the targets primarily responsible for the cardiotoxic effects on APD and Ca2+ dynamics.

Conclusions and Implications

This study provides insight into the mechanisms of DOX‐induced cardiotoxicity and a framework for the development of future diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
Microtopographic specialization and flexibility in tropical peat swamp forest tree species
Authors: Freund Cathryn A. , Harsanto Fransiskus A. , Purwanto Ari , Takahashi Hidenori , Harrison Mark E.
Published: November 2017

Tropical tree species distributions are determined by a wide range of biotic and abiotic factors, including topography and hydrology. Tropical peat swamp forests (TPSFs) are characterized in part by small‐scale variations in topography (‘hummocks’ and ‘hollows’) that create distinct microhabitats and thus may contribute to niche diversification among TPSF tree species. Using tree elevations calibrated to daily peat water levels collected using a data logger and a permutation test, we evaluated topographical microhabitat preferences for 21 tree species in a relatively undisturbed TPSF in Central Kalimantan, Indonesia, to determine whether these species show preferential association with hummocks or hollows and to quantify the prevalence of microhabitat specialization among them. Only one species, Tetractomia tetrandrum, emerged as a hollow specialist, with no hummock specialists among the species tested. The remaining 20 species, including Psydrax dicoccos, which had the lowest mean observed elevation, and Maasia hypoleuca, which had the highest mean observed elevation, showed no clear microtopographic preference. This suggests that many TPSF species may be resilient to the natural hydrologic variations that occur in relatively intact peat swamp forests. Such studies of microtopographic preferences of tree species in TPSF and other wetland forest ecosystems can inform selection of tree species for reforestation projects, and potentially also provide information on how future climate change may impact these habitats and their resident tree species.
Enhanced cytotoxicity and apoptosis by raloxifene in combination with estrogen and methotrexate in human endometrial stromal cells
Authors: Nikolic Ivana , Andjelkovic Marija , Zaric Milan , Zelen Ivanka , Milosavljevic Zoran , Canovic Petar , Mitrovic Marina
Published: November 2017

Endometrial hyperplasia is a condition that may lead to the development of endometrial carcinoma. Initially, changes of the endometrium are caused by the estrogen's hyperstimulation that may lead to the development of an irregular bleeding and the infertility problems. Therapy of endometrial hyperplasia is limited to medical and surgical approaches. During the past decade, the new types of drugs were developed for the treatment of the endometrial hyperplasia. Here, for the first time, we investigated the cytotoxic effects of the various combinations of estrogen, raloxifene, and methotrexate in human ThESC cell line as a possible potential treatment of the endometrial hyperplasia. Our aim was to investigate and to determine the most efficient combination of investigated drugs in ThESC cells during 24‐hr period using MTT assay, FACS analysis, and immunofluorescence staining. Our results demonstrated that the combination of raloxifene with methotrexate efficiently induced both the cytotoxicity and apoptosis in ThESC cells when compared to their single effect, as well as to the effect of combined treatment of raloxifene with estrogen. The application of the low doses of methotrexate combined with raloxifene offers all advantages of a potential beneficial antitumor match in cancer chemoprevention and therapy.
Back‐to‐back colon capsule endoscopy and optical colonoscopy in colorectal cancer screening individuals
Authors: Kobaek‐Larsen M. , Kroijer R. , Dyrvig A.‐K. , Buijs M. M. , Steele R. J. C. , Qvist N. , Baatrup G.
Published: November 2017

Aim

The aim was to determine the polyp detection rate and per‐patient sensitivity for polyps > 9 mm of colon capsule endoscopy (CCE) compared with colonoscopy as well as the diagnostic accuracy of CCE.

Method

Individuals who had a positive immunochemical faecal occult blood test during screening had investigator blinded CCE and colonoscopy. Participants underwent repeat endoscopy if significant lesions detected by CCE were considered to have been missed by colonoscopy.

Results

There were 253 participants. The polyp detection rate was significantly higher in CCE compared with colonoscopy (P = 0.02). The per‐patient sensitivity for > 9 mm polyps for CCE and colonoscopy was 87% (95% CI: 83–91%) and 88% (95% CI: 84–92%) respectively. In participants with complete CCE and colonoscopy examinations (N = 126), per‐patient sensitivity of > 9 mm polyps in CCE (97%; 95% CI: 94–100%) was superior to colonoscopy (89%; 95% CI: 84–94%). A complete capsule endoscopy examination (N = 134) could detect patients with intermediate or greater risk (according to the European guidelines) with an accuracy, sensitivity, specificity and positivity rate of 79%, 93%, 69% and 58% respectively, using a cut‐off of at least one polyp > 10 mm or more than two polyps.

Conclusion

CCE is superior to colonoscopy in polyp detection rate and per‐patient sensitivity to > 9 mm polyps, but only in complete CCE examinations. The rate of incomplete CCE examinations must be improved.
Pre‐operative features of non‐invasive follicular thyroid neoplasms with papillary‐like nuclear features: An analysis of their cytological, Gene Expression Classifier and sonographic findings
Authors: Song S. J. , LiVolsi V. A. , Montone K. , Baloch Z.
Published: November 2017

Objective

To investigate the corresponding cytological diagnoses, Gene Expression Classifier (GEC) results and ultrasound features of thyroid nodules diagnosed as non‐invasive follicular thyroid neoplasms with papillary‐like nuclear features (NIFTP), as well as any coexisting pathology.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of thyroid nodules histologically diagnosed as NIFTP at our institution between 1st April 2016 and 1st April 2017. The following data points were collected: demographics, nodule size, ultrasound features, cytological diagnosis, GEC results, origin of sample (in‐house vs outside hospital) and any additional pathology identified in the resection specimen.

Results

The case cohort included 87 nodules diagnosed as NIFTP (size range: 1‐7 cm, mean: 2.5 cm) from 82 patients (age range: 22‐82, mean age: 50.4, M:F—1:4.1). Corresponding FNA results were available for 72 nodules (82.8%) and were categorised as follows: benign (n = 5, 6.9%), atypia of unknown significance/follicular lesion of undetermined significance (n = 29, 40.3%), follicular neoplasm/suspicious for follicular neoplasm/follicular neoplasm with oncocytic features (n = 27, 37.5%), suspicious for papillary thyroid carcinoma (n = 6, 8.3%) and malignant (n = 5, 6.9%). GEC results were available for 32 (44.4%) nodules, with the majority of cases classified as suspicious (81.3%). On ultrasound, most of the nodules were predominantly solid (81.8%), vascular (93.8%), non‐calcified (86.5%), and either hypoechoic (44.9%) or isoechoic (38.8%). In addition to NIFTP and other benign findings in the background thyroid, 75 separate malignant tumours were identified in 38 (46.3%) patients, many of which were papillary thyroid microcarcinomas (86.5%) with lymph node metastases present in two cases.

Conclusions

The majority of thyroid nodules histologically diagnosed as NIFTP have indeterminate cytology (77.8%) and are classified as suspicious (81.3%) by GEC testing. Taken together, these findings can guide clinicians toward a more conservative therapeutic approach.
Suicidal ideation in individuals at ultra‐high risk for psychosis and its association with suspiciousness independent of depression
Authors: Bang Minji , Park Jin Young , Kim Kyung Ran , Lee Su Young , Song Yun Young , Kang Jee In , Lee Eun , An Suk Kyoon
Published: November 2017

Aim

Psychotic experiences, including delusions and hallucinations, and their attenuated forms have been recently suggested as a significant but under‐recognized marker of suicide risk. However, the relationship between attenuated positive symptoms and suicide has not yet been clearly demonstrated in individuals at ultra‐high risk (UHR) for psychosis. Here, we investigated the effect of attenuated positive symptoms on suicidal ideation in UHR individuals.

Methods

Fifty‐three healthy controls (HCs) and 74 UHR individuals participated in the present study. All participants were assessed for the intensity of suicidal ideation and depressive symptoms at baseline. The effect of attenuated positive symptoms on suicidal ideation in the UHR group was examined using a multiple linear regression analysis after adjustment for concurrent depressive symptoms.

Results

UHR participants were found to have significantly greater suicidal ideation and more severe depressive symptoms compared to those of HCs. The regression model demonstrated that suspiciousness significantly increased suicidal ideation in UHR participants, independent of the severity of depressive symptoms.

Conclusion

The findings of the present study suggest that suspiciousness may serve as a risk indicator for suicide in clinical practice for UHR individuals. It is crucial to focus on the risk of suicide in the UHR population, as they require sufficient clinical attention and proper management for crises related to their unusual and confusing experiences.
Effect of sensor installation on the accurate measurement of soil water content
Authors: Iwata Y. , Miyamoto T. , Kameyama K. , Nishiya M.
Published: November 2017

We evaluated the effects of different methods of installing a capacitance soil moisture sensor on the sensor's output with six soil types and three methods of sensor installation. For Method 1, the sensor was first placed in a container and then buried. For Method 2, the entire sensor (including prongs and circuitry) was inserted into a prepacked soil sample. For Method 3, the sensor prongs were installed directly into a prepacked soil sample, and then soil was placed around the circuitry. The sensor outputs of Method 1 were significantly smaller for the volumetric soil water content (θ) of most of the soil types compared with the sensor outputs of the other two methods. Large differences in sensor outputs were observed in relation to the installation method, which resulted in a large estimation error when using a soil moisture sensor. For example, the difference in θ values calculated by the calibration equation obtained by Methods 1 and 2 was 0.076 m3 m−3, a maximum for the Andisol sample. We observed a significant linear relation between the maximum differences in θ (which might result from the different sensor installation methods) and the coarse pore volume determined from soil water characteristic curves. Compaction around the sensor induced by sensor installation, which might be considerable for soil with many coarse pores, was considered the main reason for an increase in the soil moisture sensor's output value. For the sensor installed by Methods 2 or 3, a second‐order polynomial equation could be used to translate sensor output to θ accurately except for soils with > 40% clay content or very low bulk density.

Highlights

An appropriate calibration equation is important to monitor soil water content precisely.

Effects of different sensor installation methods on calibration equations have not been determined.

Method of installation considerably affected output values of a capacitance sensor.

Soil compaction by sensor installation increases the sensor output: more so in coarse pore soil.
Habitat‐specific capture timing of deer mice (Peromyscus maniculatus) suggests that predators structure temporal activity of prey
Authors: Connolly Brian M. , Orrock John L.
Published: November 2017

Timing is an essential component of the choices that animals make: The likelihood of successful resource capture (and predator avoidance) depends not just on what an animal chooses to do, but when it chooses to do it. Despite the importance of activity timing, our ability to understand the forces that constrain activity timing has been limited because this aspect of animal behavior is shaped by several factors (e.g., interspecific competitors, predators, physical conditions), and it is difficult to examine activity timing in a setting where only a single factor is operating. Using an island system that makes it possible to focus on the effect of predation risk in the absence of interspecific competition, we examine how the onset of activity of the deer mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus) varies between habitats with unique predation risks (i.e., minimal‐shrub cover versus abundant‐shrub cover sites). Using capture time to assess the timing of mouse activity, we found that mice in habitats with minimal shrub cover were captured 1.7 hr earlier than mice in habitats with abundant shrub cover. This difference in timing between habitats was likely a direct response to differences in predation risk between the two habitats: There were no differences in thermal conditions between the two habitats, and the difference in activity timing disappeared during a night when overcast skies reduced island‐wide predation risk. Our results demonstrate that predation risk, independent of interspecific competition, can generate significant changes in animal activity timing. Our work suggests that habitat structure that provides safety (i.e., refuge habitats) plays a direct role in the timing of prey activity and that habitat modification that alters refuge availability (e.g., shrub dominance) may alter the timing of animal activity.
Toward a socially acceptable gentrification: A review of strategies and practices against displacement
Authors: Ghaffari Leila , Klein Juan‐Luis , Angulo Baudin Wilfredo
Published: November 2017

This article offers a systematic review of available studies on gentrification and displacement with the primary goal of identifying the few (relative to the number of publications) solutions or strategies being suggested for mitigating displacement. We categorize these strategies into 3 types: tenants' protection, controlling ownership and development, and community empowerment. Each strategy is accompanied by various tools which may differ from one context to another. Finally, proposing that displacement can be controlled, the article concludes that counteracting the negative effects of gentrification requires more than just reducing displacement. In other words, we believe that there are several issues beyond physical displacement to be considered in order to make gentrification socially acceptable.