bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sunbirds serve as major pollinators for various populations of Firmiana kwangsiensis, a tree endemic to South China
Authors: Huang Zhi‐Huan , Luo Wen‐Hua , Huang Shi‐Xun , Huang Shuang‐Quan
Published: March 2018

Loss of local, effective pollinators may potentially limit plant reproductive success but the plant–pollinator interactions could be rescued if the plant does not reject other pollen vectors. Firmiana kwangsiensis H.H. Hsue (Malvaceae) is an endangered tree endemic to limestone areas in South China. Although its preservation status is listed as “critically endangered”, its reproductive ecology is little known. We compared floral visitors in three wild populations and one transplanted population. Such a comparison allows us to see whether the pollinator assemblage varies geographically and to examine the plasticity of plant–pollinator interactions, informing sustainable ex situ conservation. Our pollination experiments indicated that fruit/seed set in F. kwangsiensis largely depended on pollinator visits, and was greatly reduced under hand self‐pollination or exclusion of bird visits. Floral visitors included sunbirds, butterflies, and bees (honeybee and wasp) but their visitation frequency varied in the four populations. The sunbird Nectarinia jugularis was the major pollinator in the three wild populations, but was replaced by the other sunbird Aethopyga christinae in the ex situ population. This tree is showy, with orange‐red flowers blooming before the leaves emerge. The calyx tube accumulates a large volume of dilute nectar (sugar concentration was 9.5%) in the morning, rewarding sunbird pollinators. Our investigations indicated that sunbirds rather than insects served as a functional group of pollinators for this endangered species. Successful ex situ conservation of this type of plant needs to consider the availability of potential pollinators.
The Roman Catholic Charismatic Movement and Civic Engagement in Sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Dowd Robert , Sarkissian Ani
Published: March 2018

The Catholic Charismatic Renewal (CCR) is a movement within the Roman Catholic Church that has grown dramatically in many parts of the world over the past three decades, including Sub‐Saharan Africa. Since it stresses divine intervention (e.g., miracles and healing), some observers suspect that the CCR deemphasizes the importance of human initiative and depresses civic engagement. In this article, we report the results of an original mass survey and in‐depth interviews conducted in Nigeria and Kenya that suggest that the CCR does not necessarily depress civic engagement and that, depending on the types of individuals involved, the movement may encourage certain types of civic engagement. While we found little evidence that mere membership in the CCR was affecting civic engagement, we did find that the time commitment involved in being an active part of the CCR did negatively affect civic engagement, especially in Kenya. However, we also found evidence that involvement in the CCR was having a positive effect on civic engagement among women in Kenya. The results indicate that the CCR is not a religious movement that is inherently quietist, always and everywhere discouraging participation in public life, and that context matters.
Quantification of serum markers of hepatitis B (HBV) and Delta virus (HDV) infections in patients with chronic HDV infection
Authors: Ricco G. , Popa D. C. , Cavallone D. , Iacob S. , Salvati A. , Tabacelia D. , Oliveri F. , Mascolo G. , Bonino F. , Yuan Q. , Xia N.‐S. , Gheorghe L. , Brunetto M. R.
Published: March 2018

The interplay between hepatitis B (HBV) and delta (HDV) viruses is complex and not always characterized during chronic HDV infection. We assessed the clinical usefulness of new quantitative assays for HBV and HDV serum markers in a retrospective cross‐sectional study. Sera obtained from 122 HDV genotype 1 and HBV genotype D coinfected, anti‐HIV‐negative patients (71 males; median age 49.8 [21.7‐66.9] years), recruited consecutively in two geographical areas (Italy 69 patients, Romania 53 patients) with different HBV and HDV epidemiology, were tested for HBsAg, HBV‐DNA, HBcrAg, total anti‐HBc, HDV‐RNA, IgM and total anti‐HDV using quantitative assays. Cirrhosis, which showed comparable prevalence in the two cohorts, was diagnosed in 97 of 122 (79.5%) patients. At multivariate analysis, cirrhosis was associated with lower total anti‐HBc/IgM anti‐HDV ratio (OR 0.990, 95% CI 0.981‐0.999, P = .038), whereas disease activity was associated with higher total anti‐HDV (OR 10.105, 95% CI 1.671‐61.107, P = .012) and HDV‐RNA levels (OR 2.366, 95% CI 1.456‐3.844, P = .001). HDV‐RNA serum levels showed a positive correlation with HBV‐DNA (ρ = 0.276, P = .005), HBsAg (ρ = 0.404, P < .001) and HBcrAg (ρ = 0.332, P < .001). The combined quantitative profiling of HBV and HDV serum markers identifies specific patterns associated with activity and stage of chronic hepatitis D (CHD). HDV pathogenicity depends on the underlying active HBV infection in spite of the inhibition of its replication. HDV‐RNA, IgM anti‐HDV, total anti‐HDV, total anti‐HBc, HBsAg and HBcrAg serum levels qualify for prospective studies to predict progressive CHD and identify candidates to antiviral therapy.
Pharmacokinetics and efficacy of intravenous famotidine in adult cattle
Authors: Balcomb Christie C. , Heller Meera C. , Chigerwe Munashe , Knych Heather K. , Meyer Allison M.
Published: March 2018

Background

Abomasal ulceration is recognized in neonatal and adult cattle, but research regarding treatment is limited. Histamine‐2 receptor antagonists (H2RA), such as famotidine, are used clinically with little evidence‐based research about efficacy in adult cattle.

Hypothesis and Objectives

Intravenous famotidine administered at 0.4 mg/kg will increase the pH of abomasal outflow digesta compared to saline control in adult cattle. The objectives were to assess the effect of famotidine, administered as a single dose and as multiple doses, on abomasal outflow fluid pH in adult cattle. A third objective was to describe the pharmacokinetic parameters of IV famotidine in cattle.

Animals

Four clinically healthy adult Angus‐cross steers previously fitted with duodenal cannulae placed orad to the biliary and pancreatic ducts.

Methods

Randomized, 2‐way cross‐over clinical trial. Steers received IV famotidine (0.4 mg/kg) as a single and 3‐dose regimen (every 8 hours) versus saline control. Blood for analysis of serum famotidine concentration was collected intermittently for 12 hours, and abomasal outflow fluid pH was measured at intervals for a 24‐hour period. After a 34‐hour washout period, the opposite treatments were administered and the sampling repeated.

Results

Abomasal outflow fluid pH was higher in steers treated with famotidine for up to 4 hours after a single dose but the effect decreased with subsequent doses. The median (range) elimination half‐life was 3.33 (3.21‐3.54) hours.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Famotidine may be useful for treatment or prevention of abomasal ulceration in adult cattle, but the duration of effect may decrease with time.
Computed tomographic appearance of abdominal lymph nodes in healthy cats
Authors: Perlini Michael , Bugbee Andrew , Secrest Scott
Published: March 2018

Background

Computed tomography (CT) is commonly used in veterinary medicine and plays an important role in disease identification and cancer staging. Identification of abnormal abdominal lymph nodes is important for clinical, therapeutic, and prognostic decision making. No published study describes the CT appearance of abdominal lymph nodes in healthy cats.

Hypothesis/Objectives

All abdominal lymph centers will be identified on CT with the majority of lymph nodes being elongated and homogenously contrast enhancing.

Animals

Sixteen healthy cats without clinical or biochemical evidence of disease.

Methods

Precontrast and postcontrast CT images of sedated healthy cats were used to identify the presence and descriptive characteristics of intra‐abdominal lymph nodes. These assessments then were compared with patient characteristics to identify possible correlations.

Results

Abdominal lymph nodes were readily identified on CT with caudal mesenteric, colic, hepatic, inguinal, and pancreaticoduodenal lymph nodes identified in 16/16 cats. Lymph node size and shape varied among lymph centers with nearly all lymph nodes homogeneously contrast enhancing in 515/525. Significant negative correlations were identified between age and length (P = .0166) and width (P = .0387) of abdominal lymph nodes as well as age and number of sacral lymph nodes (P = .0493). Intranodal fat was present in 18/525 lymph nodes.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

CT readily permitted identification and characterization of feline abdominal lymph nodes. This study provides subjective and objective data on the CT characteristics of abdominal lymph nodes in 16 healthy cats, with younger cats having larger abdominal lymph nodes and a higher number of sacral lymph nodes.
Prognostic value of echocardiographic indices of left atrial morphology and function in dogs with myxomatous mitral valve disease
Authors: Baron Toaldo Marco , Romito Giovanni , Guglielmini Carlo , Diana Alessia , Pelle Nazzareno G. , Contiero Barbara , Cipone Mario
Published: March 2018

Background

The prognostic relevance of left atrial (LA) morphological and functional variables, including those derived from speckle tracking echocardiography (STE), has been little investigated in veterinary medicine.

Objectives

To assess the prognostic value of several echocardiographic variables, with a focus on LA morphological and functional variables in dogs with myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD).

Animals

One‐hundred and fifteen dogs of different breeds with MMVD.

Methods

Prospective cohort study. Conventional morphologic and echo‐Doppler variables, LA areas and volumes, and STE‐based LA strain analysis were performed in all dogs. A survival analysis was performed to test for the best echocardiographic predictors of cardiac‐related death.

Results

Most of the tested variables, including all LA STE‐derived variables were univariate predictors of cardiac death in Cox proportional hazard analysis. Because of strong correlation between many variables, only left atrium to aorta ratio (LA/Ao > 1.7), mitral valve E wave velocity (MV E vel > 1.3 m/s), LA maximal volume (LAVmax > 3.53 mL/kg), peak atrial longitudinal strain (PALS < 30%), and contraction strain index (CSI per 1% increase) were entered in the univariate analysis, and all were predictors of cardiac death. However, only the MV E vel (hazard ratio [HR], 4.45; confidence interval [CI], 1.76‐11.24; P < .001) and LAVmax (HR, 2.32; CI, 1.10‐4.89; P = .024) remained statistically significant in the multivariable analysis.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

The assessment of LA dimension and function provides useful prognostic information in dogs with MMVD. Considering all the LA variables, LAVmax appears the strongest predictor of cardiac death, being superior to LA/Ao and STE‐derived variables.
Metabolic perturbations in Welsh Ponies with insulin dysregulation, obesity, and laminitis
Authors: Jacob Sarah I. , Murray Kevin J. , Rendahl Aaron K. , Geor Raymond J. , Schultz Nichol E. , McCue Molly E.
Published: March 2018

Background

Metabolomics, the study of small‐molecule metabolites, has increased understanding of human metabolic diseases, but has not been used to study equine metabolic syndrome (EMS).

Objectives

(1) To examine the serum metabolome of Welsh Ponies with and without insulin dysregulation before and during an oral sugar test (OST). (2) To identify differences in metabolites in ponies with insulin dysregulation, obesity, or history of laminitis.

Animals

Twenty Welsh Ponies (mean ± SD; 13.8 ± 9.0 years) classified as non‐insulin dysregulated [CON] (n = 10, insulin < 30 mU/L) or insulin dysregulated [ID] (n = 10, insulin > 60 mU/L) at 75 minutes after administration of Karo syrup, obese (n = 6) or nonobese (n = 14), and history of laminitis (n = 9) or no history of laminitis (n = 11).

Methods

Case‐control study. Metabolomic analysis was performed on serum obtained at 0 minutes (baseline) and 75 minutes during the OST. Data were analyzed with multivariable mixed linear models with significance set at P ≤ .05.

Results

Metabolomic analysis of 646 metabolites (506 known) detected significant metabolite differences. At baseline, 55 metabolites (insulin response), 91 metabolites (obesity status), and 136 metabolites (laminitis history) were different. At 75 minutes, 51 metabolites (insulin response), 102 metabolites (obesity status), and 124 metabolites (laminitis history) were different.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Use of metabolomics could have diagnostic utility for early detection of EMS and provide new knowledge regarding the pathophysiology of metabolic perturbations associated with this condition that might lead to improved clinical management.
Kinetic and kinematic follow‐up gait analysis in Doberman Pinschers with cervical spondylomyelopathy treated medically and surgically
Authors: Foss Kari D. , Smith Rebecca L. , da Costa Ronaldo C.
Published: March 2018

Background

The efficacy of treatment of dogs with cervical spondylomyelopathy (CSM) is commonly based on the owner's and clinician's perception of the gait, which is highly subjective and suffers from observer bias.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To compare selected kinetic and kinematic parameters before and after treatments and to correlate the findings of gait analysis to clinical outcome.

Animals

Eight Doberman Pinschers with CSM confirmed by magnetic resonsance imaging.

Methods

Patients were prospectively studied and treated with either medical management (n = 5) or surgery (n = 3). Force plate analysis and 3‐D kinematic motion capture were performed at initial presentation and approximately 8 weeks later. Force plate parameters evaluated included peak vertical force (PVF). Kinematic parameters measured included number of pelvic limb strides, stifle flexion and extension, maximum and minimum thoracic limb distance, truncal sway, and thoracic limb stride duration.

Results

Kinematic analysis showed that deviation of the spine to the right (truncal sway) was significantly smaller (P < .001) and the degree of right stifle flexion was significantly larger (P = .029) after treatment. Force plate analysis indicated that PVF was significantly different after treatment (P = .049) and the difference of the PVF also was significantly larger (P = .027). However, no correlation was found with either method of gait analysis and clinical recovery.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Kinetic and kinematic gait analysis were able to detect differences in dogs with CSM before and after treatment. A correlation of gait analysis to clinical improvement could not be determined.
Effect of interleukin‐1β on occludin mRNA expression in the duodenal and colonic mucosa of dogs with inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Ogawa Misato , Osada Hironari , Hasegawa Ayana , Ohno Hikaru , Yanuma Nanako , Sasaki Kazuaki , Shimoda Minoru , Shirai Junsuke , Kondo Hirotaka , Ohmori Keitaro
Published: March 2018

Background

Mucosal imbalance of interleukin (IL)‐1β and IL‐1 receptor antagonist (Ra) has been reported in the duodenal mucosa of dogs with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, the imbalance in the colonic mucosa and its role in duodenitis and colitis in IBD of dogs remain unclear.

Objectives

To measure the expression of IL‐1β and IL‐1Ra proteins in the colonic mucosa of dogs with IBD, and to determine the effect of IL‐1β on expression of occludin (ocln) mRNA, a tight junction component, in the duodenal and colonic mucosa of dogs with IBD.

Animals

Twelve dogs with IBD and 6 healthy dogs.

Methods

IL‐1β and IL‐1 Ra proteins in the colonic mucosa were quantified by ELISA in 7 of the 12 dogs with IBD. Expression of ocln mRNA in the duodenal and colonic mucosa was examined in the 12 dogs by real‐time PCR.

Results

The ratio of IL‐1β to IL‐1Ra in the colonic mucosa was significantly higher in dogs with IBD than in healthy dogs. The ex vivo experiment determined that IL‐1β suppressed expression of ocln mRNA in the colonic mucosa, but not in the duodenal mucosa, of healthy dogs. Expression of ocln mRNA in the colonic mucosa, but not in the duodenal mucosa, was significantly lower in dogs with IBD than in healthy dogs.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

A relative increase in IL‐1β may attenuate ocln expression, leading to intestinal barrier dysfunction and promotion of intestinal inflammation in the colonic mucosa, but not in the duodenal mucosa, of dogs with IBD.
Urogenital anomalies and urinary incontinence in an English Cocker Spaniel dog with XX sex reversal
Authors: Yoon Hakyoung , Han Sung‐Hee , Kim Jaehwan , Kim Kihoon , Eom Kidong
Published: March 2018

A 3‐year‐old dog weighing 8 kg was referred with a disorder of sexual development and persistent urinary incontinence before and after gonadohysterectomy performed at a local animal hospital. Histopathological examination disclosed hypoplasia of the testes, epididymis, pampiniform plexus, and uterus. On ultrasonography, an anomalous structure containing anechoic fluid was identified in the region dorsal to the urinary bladder. An anomalous communication between the proximal urethra and the remnant uterus and vagina was found on retrograde urethrography under fluoroscopy. Reflux of contrast medium into the anomalous structure, suspected to be the uterus and cranial vagina, from the urethra was detected. Computed tomography identified the anomalous structure between the rectum and urethra. The anomalous structure was removed via laparotomy and the urinary incontinence resolved. The diagnosis of XX sex reversal with a developmental anomaly of the genitourinary tract was made on the basis of laparotomy findings and cytogenetic and SRY gene analyses.
Effect of cross‐match on packed cell volume after transfusion of packed red blood cells in transfusion‐naïve anemic cats
Authors: Sylvane Brittany , Prittie Jennifer , Hohenhaus Ann E. , Tozier Erik
Published: March 2018

Background

Novel feline RBC antigens might contribute to decreased efficacy of RBC transfusion and increased incidence of acute transfusion reactions (ATR).

Objectives

To examine the effect of major cross‐match in transfusion‐naïve anemic cats on the incidence of acute immunologic transfusion reaction and transfusion efficacy for up to 24 hours after transfusion.

Animals

Forty‐eight client owned transfusion‐naïve anemic cats.

Methods

Prospective, randomized, controlled study. All transfusion‐naïve cats receiving packed red blood cells (pRBC) transfusions from January 2016 to August 2017 were eligible for inclusion. Cats in the study group received cross‐match and blood type compatible pRBCs and cats in the control group received noncross‐matched blood type compatible pRBCs. Incidence of ATR and change in PCV after transfusion was recorded.

Results

No significant difference in incidence of transfusion reactions between cross‐matched and noncross‐matched groups (CM+ 4/24; 17%, CM– 7/24; 29%,P = .16). No significant difference between groups in mean change in PCV after transfusion scaled to dose of pRBCs administered at any time point after transfusion (immediate: CM+ 0.62 ± 0.59, CM– 0.75 ± 0.48,P = .41; 1 hour: CM+ 0.60 ± 0.66, CM– 0.74 ± 0.53,P = .43; 12 hours: CM+ 0.70 ± 0.55, CM– 0.66 ± 0.60,P = .81; 24 hours: CM+ 0.64 ± 0.71, CM– 0.55 ± 0.48,P = .70).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Our results do not support use of the major cross‐match test to increase efficacy of, and to decrease adverse events associated with, RBC transfusion in AB blood typed transfusion‐naïve cats.
Variation in water disappearance, daily dose, and synovial fluid concentrations of tylvalosin and 3‐O‐acetyltylosin in commerical pigs during five day water medication with tylvalosin under field conditions
Authors: Canning P. , Bates J. , Skoland K. , Coetzee J. , Wulf L. , Rajewski S. , Wang C. , Gauger P. , Ramirez A. , Karriker L.
Published: March 2018

Tylvalosin (TVN) is a water soluble macrolide used in swine production to treat enteric, respiratory, and arthritic pathogens. There is limited data on its distribution to synovial fluid beyond gavage studies, which do not represent field conditions. This study measured water disappearance, TVN concentration in the medicated water, daily dose, and concentrations of TVN and 3‐O‐acetyltylosin (3AT) in the synovial fluid and plasma of treated pigs over the administration period. The study emphasized understanding variation in tissue TVN concentrations within the context of a field setting. Sixty finisher pigs were housed individually with individual waterers. Six pigs were randomly allocated to the following time points for sample collection: 0, 48, 60, 72, 84, 96, 102, 108, 114, and 120 hr on medication. TVN was administered daily in the water for 5 days. Water disappearance and medicated water concentration were measured daily. At each time point, six pigs were euthanized and plasma and synovial fluid were collected for analysis. Median TVN synovial fluid concentrations ranged between <1 ng/ml (hour 0) to 3.6 ng/ml (hour 84). There was substantial variation between individual pigs for water disappearance (mean 4.36L and range 0–7.84). Median TVN water concentration was 59 ppm (range 38–75 ppm).
Biotic resistance affects growth and reproduction, but not survival of a high‐impact woody invader in African savannas
Authors: te Beest Mariska , Mpandza Nokukhanya J. , Olff Han
Published: March 2018

Question

Biotic resistance is defined as the reduction in invasion success caused by the native community through competition, herbivory and/or pathogens. Biotic resistance has mostly been studied during the initial stages of invasion. However, to what extent biotic resistance hampers survival, or persistence, of invaders in the longer term is often not known. We studied how native grassland communities affected growth, reproduction and survival during the adult life stage of the high‐impact woody invader Chromolaena odorata under different water availability treatments.

Location

Hluhluwe‐iMfolozi Park, South Africa.

Methods

We performed a 2‐years full‐factorial field experiment in a savanna grassland where we manipulated water availability and neighbouring vegetation; in one‐third of the plots vegetation was cleared and planted with C. odorata monocultures, in one‐third C. odorata shrubs were planted in grasslands, and one‐third were unplanted grassland controls.

Results

Growth and reproduction of adult C. odorata were greatly reduced due to competition with native grasses, but not survival of C. odorata. Shrub survival was high and did not differ in plots with and without grass. Water availability did not affect growth, reproduction and competitive ability of C. odorata, but higher water availability did increase the competitive ability of the grasses. Soil moisture levels were lower in grasslands planted with C. odorata compared to unplanted controls, independent of the water treatment, suggesting higher water use of C. odorata compared to native grasses.

Conclusions

Savanna grasslands have a strong competitive effect on invasion by the exotic woody shrub C. odorata, reducing growth and reproduction, but not survival of the shrub. We found no evidence that biotic resistance was stronger under more unfavourable abiotic conditions, as C. odorata was equally impacted in all water treatments. The high survival rates of C. odorata suggest that competitive interactions are not likely to prevent invader persistence in the landscape. Invader persistence is important in determining longer‐term invasion success as well as invader impact, and the concept of persistence should not be overlooked in studies on invasive species.
Antibacterial Synergisms of Ji Xue Teng, Spatholobus suberectus, Extract and Selected Antibiotics against Streptococcus agalactiae from Nile Tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus (L.), In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Guo Wei‐Liang , Wang Wen‐Hui , Hu Wen‐Ting , Xie Zhen‐Yu , Wang Shi‐Feng , Sun Yun , Zhou Yong‐Can
Published: March 2018

Streptococcus agalactiae infection causes severe economic losses in tilapia production. To find out efficacious strategies for curing S. agalactiae infections, this study screened the antibacterial synergisms between Ji Xue Teng, Spatholobus suberectus, extract and selected antibiotics via a modified agar well diffusion method. We optimized a combined ratio of S. suberectus extract and the selected antibiotic, observed their effects on the infections with S. agalactiae on Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus (L.), and determined their antibacterial spectra. The results showed that S. suberectus extract and streptomycin sulfate exhibited antibacterial synergism against S. agalactiae, with an optimal ratio of 42.5:1 (m : m). The minimal inhibitory concentration of S. suberectus extract was reduced from 27.84 to 5.95 mg/mL, and a reduction of streptomycin sulfate from 0.66 to 0.13 mg/mL was noted. After providing infected tilapia, O. niloticus (L.), with feedstuffs containing 0.520% S. suberectus extract only, 0.013% streptomycin sulfate only, or in combination, the relative percent of survival was 52.6, 13.9, and 80.5%, respectively. These results indicate an antibacterial synergism between S. suberectus extract and streptomycin sulfate in vitro and in vivo.
The 13th Round: Article 39(3) TRIPS and the struggle over “Unfair Commercial Use”
Authors: Spina Alì Gabriele
Published: March 2018

The Treaty on Trade‐Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) was the first international agreement to provide for some form of protection for regulatory information submitted by companies in order to obtain marketing authorization for a pharmaceutical product. Nevertheless, after more than 20 years from the formation of the agreement, the ultimate meaning of Article 39(3) thereof remains contentious among scholars and governments. In detail, it is still debated whether the provision mandates for some form of protection against the practice to authorize generic drugs by relying upon the clinical dossier submitted by drug developers or if it tackles otherwise unlawful conducts as data theft and espionage in the pharmaceutical sector. By reassessing the relevant literature on the topic, and by combining old and new arguments, the present paper argues that Article 39(3) does address regulatory reliance practices. However, it also emphasizes that the impact of the provision on developing countries pharmaceutical policies is greatly mitigated by the flexibility left to WTO members to approve generic drugs by referring to prior foreign authorizations. Finally, the paper concludes by reflecting on an issue often overlooked by commentators, that is, the amount of protection necessary to comply with Article 39(3).
Nonconsumptive predator effects on prey demography: dogwhelk cues decrease benthic mussel recruitment
Authors: Ehlers S. M. , Scrosati R. A. , Ellrich J. A.
Published: March 2018

Predators often have nonconsumptive effects (NCEs) on prey behaviour, but the demographic consequences for prey remain poorly known. This is important to understand because demography influences the functional role of a species in its community. We used an intertidal predator–prey system to investigate predator NCEs on prey recruitment, a key demographic process for population persistence. Pelagic mussel larvae are known to avoid waterborne cues from dogwhelks, which prey on intertidal mussels. Through a field experiment done in Atlantic Canada, we manipulated the presence of dogwhelks in intertidal habitats during the mussel (Mytilus spp.) recruitment season. We measured mussel recruitment in collectors that could be reached by waterborne dogwhelk cues but not by dogwhelks themselves. We found that the nearby presence of dogwhelks significantly decreased mussel recruit density. A previous study done in the same habitats under the same experimental conditions showed that dogwhelk cues also limit the recruitment of barnacles, another prey item for dogwhelks. However, such NCEs were stronger than those observed for mussel recruitment, possibly because mussels have more opportunities to escape predation during their benthic existence. Thus, basic features of natural history might be useful to predict the intensity of predator NCEs on prey recruitment.
Nutrition‐sensitive agricultural interventions and gender dynamics: A qualitative study in Nepal
Authors: Kjeldsberg Cecilie , Shrestha Niva , Patel Miti , Davis Dale , Mundy Gary , Cunningham Kenda
Published: March 2018

Undernutrition and low women's status persist as major development obstacles in South Asia and specifically, Nepal. Multi‐sectoral approaches, including nutrition‐sensitive agriculture, are potential avenues for further reductions in undernutrition. Although evidence is growing, many questions remain regarding how gender mediates the translation of agricultural production activities into nutritional benefit. In this study, we examined how gender influences the pathway from agricultural production to improved income and control of income, with a focus on five domains of empowerment: decision‐making power, freedom of mobility, social support, workload and time, and self‐efficacy. For this, we conducted a qualitative retrospective assessment (N = 10 FGDs) among 73 beneficiary women of a nutrition‐sensitive agriculture programme implemented from 2008 to 2012 in two districts of Nepal—Baitadi and Kailali. We found that women reported increased decision‐making power, new knowledge and skills, increased recognition by their family members of their new knowledge and contributions, and self‐efficacy as farmers and sellers, whereas workload and time were the most consistent constraints noted. We also found that each empowerment domain operated differently at different stages of the pathway, sometimes representing barriers and at other times, opportunities and that the interconnectedness of the domains made them difficult to disentangle in practice. Finally, there were major contextual differences for some domains (e.g., freedom of mobility) between the two districts. Future policies and programmes need to include in‐depth formative research to ensure that interventions address context‐specific gender and social norms to maximise programmatic opportunities to achieve desired results.
Standing genetic diversity and selection at functional gene loci are associated with differential invasion success in two non‐native fish species
Authors: Wellband Kyle W. , Pettitt‐Wade Harri , Fisk Aaron T. , Heath Daniel D.
Published: March 2018

Invasive species are expected to experience a unique combination of high genetic drift due to demographic factors while also experiencing strong selective pressures. The paradigm that reduced genetic diversity should limit the evolutionary potential of invasive species, and thus, their potential for range expansion has received little empirical support, possibly due to the choice of genetic markers. Our goal was to test for effects of genetic drift and selection at functional genetic markers as they relate to the invasion success of two paired invasive goby species, one widespread (successful) and one with limited range expansion (less successful). We genotyped fish using two marker types: single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in known‐function, protein‐coding genes and microsatellites to contrast the effects of neutral genetic processes. We identified reduced allelic variation in the invaded range for the less successful tubenose goby.SNPs putatively under selection were responsible for the observed differences in population structure between marker types for round goby (successful) but not tubenose goby (less successful). A higher proportion of functional loci experienced divergent selection for round goby, suggesting increased evolutionary potential in invaded ranges may be associated with round goby's greater invasion success. Genes involved in thermal tolerance were divergent for round goby populations but not tubenose goby, consistent with the hypothesis that invasion success for fish in temperate regions is influenced by capacity for thermal tolerance. Our results highlight the need to incorporate functional genetic markers in studies to better assess evolutionary potential for the improved conservation and management of species.
Between a principled and a consequentialist logic: theory and practice of secession in Catalonia and Scotland
Authors: Dalle Mulle Emmanuel , Serrano Ivan
Published: March 2018

This paper inquires into whether the three types of arguments usually formulated in the normative literature on the legitimacy of secession – i.e. communitarian, choice, and remedial arguments – are articulated (or not) by separatist parties in Catalonia and Scotland. It concludes that these actors do use such arguments, but they tend to merge them in different combinations making a pluralist case for independence rather than developing monist reasoning as most political philosophers do. Furthermore, it finds a fourth type of argument which is under‐theorised in the relevant literature. This is an instrumental argument whereby independence is depicted not as an end in itself, but as a means to achieve better welfare and governance for the national population. It further proposes a fourfold theoretical scheme that links communitarian and choice arguments to a principled logic based on the belief in the existence of an absolute right to self‐determination and remedial and instrumental arguments to a consequentialist logic that legitimates secession on the condition that it serves the achievement of specific ends.
Relational ethics of delirium care: Findings from a hospice ethnography
Authors: Wright David Kenneth , Brajtman Susan , Macdonald Mary Ellen
Published: March 2018

Delirium, a common syndrome in terminally ill people, presents specific challenges to a good death in end‐of‐life care. This paper examines the relational engagement between hospice nurses and their patients in a context of end‐of‐life delirium. Ethnographic fieldwork spanning 15 months was conducted at a freestanding residential hospice in eastern Canada. A shared value system was apparent within the nursing community of hospice; patients’ comfort and dignity were deemed most at stake and therefore commanded nurses’ primary attention. This overarching commitment to comfort and dignity shaped all of nursing practice in this hospice, including practices related to end‐of‐life delirium. The findings of this study elaborate the ways in which hospice nurses interpreted and responded to the discomfort of their patients in delirium, as well as the efforts they made to understand their patients’ subjective experiences and to connect with them in supportive ways. In addition to what is already known about clinical assessment and treatment of delirium in palliative care settings, the findings of this study offer points of reflection for nurses anywhere who are contending with the relational challenges that delirium presents in end‐of‐life care.
Prevalence, risk factors and complications of oropharyngeal dysphagia in stroke patients: A cohort study
Authors: Rofes L. , Muriana D. , Palomeras E. , Vilardell N. , Palomera E. , Alvarez‐Berdugo D. , Casado V. , Clavé P.
Published: March 2018

Background

Oropharyngeal dysphagia (OD) is a prevalent poststroke condition with severe complications and increased mortality. Poststroke OD prevalence varies among studies and there is little evidence of its related risk factors and associated complications. Objective: to evaluate the prevalence of OD after stroke and the risk factors and associated complications.

Methods

We performed a prospective longitudinal study of stroke patients consecutively admitted to a general hospital. OD was diagnosed with the volume‐viscosity swallow test (V‐VST). Demographic, functional status and topographical and clinical variables of stroke were collected to assess risk factors for OD. We evaluated functional status, mortality, respiratory infections, and readmissions 3 and 12 months after stroke. A multivariate regression analysis determined associated risk factors for OD and for each outcome variable.

Key Results

We included 395 stroke patients with a 45.06% prevalence of OD on admission. OD was independently associated with age (OR = 1.05; CI = 1.02‐1.08), previous stroke (OR = 2.40; CI = 1.00‐5.79), severity using the National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (OR = 3.52; CI = 1.57‐7.87) and volume of the lesion (OR = 1.02; CI = 1.01‐1.03). OD after stroke was an independent risk factor for prolonged hospital stay (P = .049; β = 0.938) and institutionalization after discharge (OR = 0.47; CI = 0.24‐0.92); OD was an independent risk factor for poorer functional capacity (OR = 3.00; CI = 1.58‐5.68) and increased mortality (HR = 6.90; CI = 1.57‐30.34) 3 months after stroke.

Conclusions & Inferences

Poststroke OD is prevalent and associated with poor short and long term prognosis. Stroke severity and patient status before stroke were more relevant to OD than lesion location. Systematic screening programs and early OD management could significantly improve poststroke patient outcome.
Role of TRPV1 receptor in inflammation and impairment of esophageal mucosal integrity in a murine model of nonerosive reflux disease
Authors: Silva R. O. , Bingana R. D. , Sales T. M. A. L. , Moreira R. L. R. , Costa D. V. S. , Sales K. M. O. , Brito G. A. C. , Santos A. A. , Souza M. Â. N. , Soares P. M. G. , Sifrim D. , Souza M. H. L. P.
Published: March 2018

Background

Microscopic inflammation and impairment of the esophageal epithelial barrier are considered relevant for perception of symptoms in patients with nonerosive reflux disease (NERD). In these patients, the receptor transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) is overexpressed in the esophageal mucosa, but its role is not yet fully understood. We evaluated the role of TRPV1 in esophageal inflammation and mucosal barrier impairment in a murine model of NERD.

Methods

Nonerosive reflux disease was surgically induced in Swiss mice by pyloric substenosis and ligature of the gastric fundus, and the mice were killed 7 days post surgery. The experimental groups were: I, sham surgery (negative control); II, NERD untreated; III and IV, NERD + SB366791 or capsazepine (TRPV1 antagonists); and V, NERD + resiniferatoxin (for long‐term desensitization of TRPV1). The esophagus was collected for western blotting and histopathology and for evaluation of wet weight, myeloperoxidase (MPO), keratinocyte‐derived chemokine (KC), transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER), and basal permeability to fluorescein.

Key Results

Compared to sham, NERD mice had increased esophageal wet weight and MPO and KC levels. The mucosa had no ulcers but exhibited inflammation. NERD mice showed mucosal TRPV1 overexpression, a more pronounced decrease in TEER at pH 0.5 (containing pepsin and taurodeoxycholic acid), and increased basal permeability. Pharmacological modulation of TRPV1 prevented esophageal inflammation development, TEER changes by acidic exposure, and increase in esophageal permeability.

Conclusions & Inferences

The TRPV1 receptor has a critical role in esophageal inflammation and mucosal barrier impairment in NERD mice, suggesting that TRPV1 might be a pharmacological target in patients with NERD.
The origin and evolution of mycorrhizal symbioses: from palaeomycology to phylogenomics
Authors: Strullu‐Derrien Christine , Selosse Marc‐André , Kenrick Paul , Martin Francis M.
Published: March 2018

Contents

Summary
1012

I.
Introduction
1013

II.
The mycorrhizal symbiosis at the dawn and rise of the land flora
1014

III.
From early land plants to early trees: the origin of roots and true mycorrhizas
1016

IV.
The diversification of the AM symbiosis
1019

V.
The ECM symbiosis
1021

VI.
The recently evolved ericoid and orchid mycorrhizas
1023

VII.
Limits of paleontological vs genetic approaches and perspectives
1023

Acknowledgements
1025

References
1025

The ability of fungi to form mycorrhizas with plants is one of the most remarkable and enduring adaptations to life on land. The occurrence of mycorrhizas is now well established in c. 85% of extant plants, yet the geological record of these associations is sparse. Fossils preserved under exceptional conditions provide tantalizing glimpses into the evolutionary history of mycorrhizas, showing the extent of their occurrence and aspects of their evolution in extinct plants. The fossil record has important roles to play in establishing a chronology of when key fungal associations evolved and in understanding their importance in ecosystems through time. Together with calibrated phylogenetic trees, these approaches extend our understanding of when and how groups evolved in the context of major environmental change on a global scale. Phylogenomics furthers this understanding into the evolution of different types of mycorrhizal associations, and genomic studies of both plants and fungi are shedding light on how the complex set of symbiotic traits evolved. Here we present a review of the main phases of the evolution of mycorrhizal interactions from palaeontological, phylogenetic and genomic perspectives, with the aim of highlighting the potential of fossil material and a geological perspective in a cross‐disciplinary approach.
Estimating heat tolerance of plants by ion leakage: a new method based on gradual heating
Authors: Ilík Petr , Špundová Martina , Šicner Michal , Melkovičová Helena , Kučerová Zuzana , Krchňák Pavel , Fürst Tomáš , Večeřová Kristýna , Panzarová Klára , Benediktyová Zuzana , Trtílek Martin
Published: March 2018

Heat tolerance of plants related to cell membrane thermostability is commonly estimated via the measurement of ion leakage from plant segments after defined heat treatment. To compare heat tolerance of various plants, it is crucial to select suitable heating conditions. This selection is time‐consuming and optimizing the conditions for all investigated plants may even be impossible. Another problem of the method is its tendency to overestimate basal heat tolerance.

Here we present an improved ion leakage method, which does not suffer from these drawbacks. It is based on gradual heating of plant segments in a water bath or algal suspensions from room temperature up to 70–75°C.

The electrical conductivity of the bath/suspension, which is measured continuously during heating, abruptly increases at a certain temperature TCOND (within 55–70°C). The TCOND value can be taken as a measure of cell membrane thermostability, representing the heat tolerance of plants/organisms.

Higher TCOND corresponds to higher heat tolerance (basal or acquired) connected to higher thermostability of the cell membrane, as evidenced by the common ion leakage method. The new method also enables determination of the thermostability of photochemical reactions in photosynthetic samples via the simultaneous measurement of Chl fluorescence.
Correlated seed failure as an environmental veto to synchronize reproduction of masting plants
Authors: Bogdziewicz Michał , Steele Michael A. , Marino Shealyn , Crone Elizabeth E.
Published: March 2018

Variable, synchronized seed production, called masting, is a widespread reproductive strategy in plants. Resource dynamics, pollination success, and, as described here, environmental veto are possible proximate mechanisms driving masting.

We explored the environmental veto hypothesis, which assumes that reproductive synchrony is driven by external factors preventing reproduction in some years, by extending the resource budget model of masting with correlated reproductive failure. We ran this model across its parameter space to explore how key parameters interact to drive seeding dynamics. Next, we parameterized the model based on 16 yr of seed production data for populations of red (Quercus rubra) and white (Quercus alba) oaks. We used these empirical models to simulate seeding dynamics, and compared simulated time series with patterns observed in the field.

Simulations showed that resource dynamics and reproduction failure can produce masting even in the absence of pollen coupling. In concordance with this, in both oaks, among‐year variation in resource gain and correlated reproductive failure were necessary and sufficient to reproduce masting, whereas pollen coupling, although present, was not necessary.

Reproductive failure caused by environmental veto may drive large‐scale synchronization without density‐dependent pollen limitation. Reproduction‐inhibiting weather events are prevalent in ecosystems, making described mechanisms likely to operate in many systems.
El Niño drought increased canopy turnover in Amazon forests
Authors: Leitold Veronika , Morton Douglas C. , Longo Marcos , dos‐Santos Maiza Nara , Keller Michael , Scaranello Marcos
Published: March 2018

Amazon droughts, including the 2015–2016 El Niño, may reduce forest net primary productivity and increase canopy tree mortality, thereby altering both the short‐ and the long‐term net forest carbon balance. Given the broad extent of drought impacts, inventory plots or eddy flux towers may not capture regional variability in forest response to drought.

We used multi‐temporal airborne Lidar data and field measurements of coarse woody debris to estimate patterns of canopy turnover and associated carbon losses in intact and fragmented forests in the central Brazilian Amazon between 2013–2014 and 2014–2016.

Average annualized canopy turnover rates increased by 65% during the drought period in both intact and fragmented forests. The average size and height of turnover events was similar for both time intervals, in contrast to expectations that the 2015–2016 El Niño drought would disproportionally affect large trees. Lidar–biomass relationships between canopy turnover and field measurements of coarse woody debris were modest (R2 ≈ 0.3), given similar coarse woody debris production and Lidar‐derived changes in canopy volume from single tree and multiple branch fall events.

Our findings suggest that El Niño conditions accelerated canopy turnover in central Amazon forests, increasing coarse woody debris production by 62% to 1.22 Mg C ha−1 yr−1 in drought years .
Rapid and flexible creativity in musical improvisation: review and a model
Authors: Loui Psyche
Published: March 2018

Creativity has been defined as the ability to produce output that is novel, useful, beneficial, and desired by an audience. But what is musical creativity, and relatedly, to what extent does creativity depend on domain‐general or domain‐specific neural and cognitive processes? To what extent can musical creativity be taught? To answer these questions from a reductionist scientific approach, we must attempt to isolate the creative process as it pertains to music. Recent work in the neuroscience of creativity has turned to musical improvisation as a window into real‐time musical creative process in the brain. Here, I provide an overview of recent research in the neuroscience of musical improvisation, especially focusing on multimodal neuroimaging studies. This research informs a model of creativity as a combination of generative and reactive processes that coordinate their functions to give rise to perpetually novel and aesthetically rewarding improvised musical output.