bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cultivating Creativity in Conservation Science
Authors: ASLAN CLARE E. , PINSKY MALIN L. , RYAN MAUREEN E. , SOUTHER SARA , TERRELL KIMBERLY A.
Published: November 2013

Conservation practitioners and scientists are often faced with seemingly intractable problems in which traditional approaches fail. While other sectors (e.g., business) frequently emphasize creative thinking to overcome complex challenges, creativity is rarely identified as an essential skill for conservationists. Yet more creative approaches are urgently needed in the effort to sustain Earth's biodiversity. We identified 4 strategies to develop skills in creative thinking and discuss underlying research and examples supporting each strategy. First, by breaking down barriers between disciplines and surrounding oneself with unfamiliar people, concepts, and perspectives, one can expand base knowledge and experiences and increase the potential for new combinations of ideas. Second, by meeting people where they are (both literally and figuratively), one exposes oneself to new environments and perspectives, which again broadens experiences and increases ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders. Third, by embracing risk responsibly, one is more likely to develop new, nontraditional solutions and be open to high‐impact outcomes. Finally, by following a cycle of learning, struggle, and reflection, one can trigger neurophysiological changes that allow the brain to become more creative. Creativity is a learned trait, rather than an innate skill. It can be actively developed at both the individual and institutional levels, and learning to navigate the relevant social and practical barriers is key to the process. To maximize the success of conservation in the face of escalating challenges, one must take advantage of what has been learned from other disciplines and foster creativity as both a professional skill and an essential component of career training and individual development.

Cultivando la Creatividad en la Ciencia de la Conservación
Noninvasive positive pressure ventilation is required following extubation at the pulmonary infection control window: a prospective observational study
Authors: Luo Zujin , Zhan Qingyuan , Wang Chen
Published: November 2013

Introduction

Timely extubation and sequential invasive to noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NPPV) at the pulmonary infection control (PIC) window is beneficial for patients with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD). However, it remains unclear whether patients can breathe independently at the PIC window and if NPPV is indeed necessary after extubation.

Objectives

To assess whether AECOPD patients can breathe independently at the PIC window and thus whether NPPV is necessary after extubation.

Methods

We performed a prospective observational study at a university hospital during a 9‐month period. We used the spontaneous breathing trial (SBT) to assess whether each patient could breathe independently at the PIC window, then performed extubation. Patients who passed the SBT received venturi oxygen therapy only, whereas those that failed received NPPV. However, if the former showed respiratory distress, they too received NPPV. The primary outcome variables were SBT pass/fail, the demand for NPPV and rate of reintubation within 72 h following extubation.

Results

In all, 23 patients were enrolled, 15 (65%) of which passed the SBT. Of these, 12 (80%) developed respiratory distress after extubation and required NPPV (one of whom required reintubation). Of the eight patients that failed, one received reintubation after NPPV. The reintubation rates within 72 h following extubation of SBT‐pass (7%) and SBT‐fail (13%) patients were comparable.

Conclusion

Our results provide experimental evidence that most AECOPD patients can breathe independently at the PIC window, but nonetheless develop respiratory distress and thus require NPPV following extubation.
Diagnostic utility of flexible bronchoscopy in elderly patients
Authors: Sarinc Ulasli Sevinc , Gunay Ersin , Akar Olcay , Halici Bilal , Koyuncu Tulay , Unlu Mehmet
Published: November 2013

Background

In the elderly population, diagnosis and initial treatment should be considered as soon as possible because of high disease incidence and complications. We aimed to evaluate the findings of flexible bronchoscopy (FB) and determine the diagnostic utility of FB in patients 65 years old and older.

Method

We retrospectively evaluated FB results. Demographic data, clinical and bronchoscopic findings, diagnostic procedures during FB and incidence of accurate diagnosis with FB both in patients 65 years old and older and in younger patients were determined.

Results

A total of 745 patients [younger patients (<65 years, n = 378, F/M: 120/258) and older patients (≥65 years, n = 367, F/M: 88/279)] who underwent FB at our clinic between 2009 and 2012 were included. The mean age of older patients was 72.6 ± 5.8 years, while the mean age of younger patients was 50.9 ± 11.7 years. Overall, 188 older patients (51.2%) had an accurate diagnosis with the procedures used during bronchoscopy, and 179 younger patients (47.3%) had a final diagnosis with these procedures. The diagnostic utility of FB did not differ significantly between study groups (P = 0.291). During FB, 326 older patients (88.8%) had no complication, and 343 younger patients (90.7%) had no complications. No statistically significant difference was found between older and younger patients in terms of complications during FB (P = 0.389).

Conclusion

The results of this study indicate the high diagnostic value of FB together with low complication rates in patients aged 65 years and older.
The impact of polyvascular disease on long‐term outcome in percutaneous coronary intervention patients
Authors: van der Meer Manon G. , Cramer Maarten J. , van der Graaf Yolanda , Appelman Yolande , Doevendans Pieter A. , Nathoe Hendrik M. ,   SMART study group
Published: November 2013

Background

Previous studies demonstrated the prognostic importance of concomitant polyvascular disease in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). However, the significance of the number of diseased vascular territories and subclinical disease is unknown.

Materials and methods

The number of diseased vascular territories was evaluated in 2299 percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) patients. Vascular disease was defined by documented atherosclerotic disease, either diagnosed in the medical history (clinical) or at the standardized cardiovascular screening (subclinical). The following territories were evaluated: cerebrovascular disease, peripheral arterial disease, abdominal aortic aneurysm and vascular renal disease. The outcome measures were all‐cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality and a composite cardiovascular endpoint (myocardial infarction, stroke, cardiovascular mortality). Patients with monovascular disease (CAD) served as the reference category. Hazard ratios (HRs) were adjusted for baseline characteristics.

Results

Mean follow‐up was 7·3 years. The HRs (95% confidence interval) for patients with two diseased territories compared to monovascular disease were for all‐cause mortality 1·60 (1·14–2·25), cardiovascular mortality 2·13 (1·29–3·50) and the combined cardiovascular endpoint 1·66 (1·20–2·31). Moreover, the HRs (95% confidence intervals) for patients with more than two diseased territories compared to monovascular disease were for all‐cause mortality 3·81 (2·45–5·92), cardiovascular mortality 4·40 (2·32–8·35) and the combined cardiovascular endpoint 2·75 (1·69–4·47). The HRs of patients with subclinical disease were comparable to the HRs of patients with clinical disease.

Conclusions

In patients undergoing PCI, the presence of subclinical and clinical polyvascular disease is associated with an increased long‐term mortality and morbidity. Moreover, the outcome is highly influenced by the number of diseased territories.
Fixed exchange rates, independent central banks and price stability in postcommunist countries: Conservatism and credibility
Authors: Bodea Cristina
Published: November 2013

Central bank independence (CBI) and fixed exchange rates are used by governments to achieve stable prices. This article analyzes the mechanisms through which the two monetary institutions could work: Indirectly via a disciplinary effect on money growth rates or via an additional credibility effect on inflation expectations and the cost of capital. I further explain how both discipline and credibility are affected by the distinct flaws of independent central banks and fixed exchange rates: central banks lack transparency and fixed exchange rates take many shapes and are routinely devalued. The argument is tested with quarterly data from postcommunist countries for years 1991 to 2007. The findings show a strong disciplinary effect of monetary institutions on rates of M2 change and an effect on inflation controlling for money growth, but credibility does not extend to lower real short‐term market interest rates. Political institutions do condition the effect of central bank independence, while the types of fixed exchange rates affect money growth rates and inflation to different degrees.
Fe(III) reduction during pyruvate fermentation by Desulfotomaculum reducens strain MI‐1
Authors: Dalla Vecchia E. , Suvorova E. I. , Maillard J. , Bernier‐Latmani R.
Published: November 2013

Desulfotomaculum reducens MI‐1 is a Gram‐positive, sulfate‐reducing bacterium also capable of reducing several metals, among which is Fe(III). Very limited knowledge is available on the potential mechanism(s) of metal reduction among Gram‐positive bacteria, despite their preponderance in the microbial communities that inhabit some inhospitable environments (e.g., thermal or hyperthermal ecosystems, extreme pH or salinity environments, heavy metal or radionuclide contaminated sediments). Here, we show that in the presence of pyruvate, this micro‐organism is capable of reducing both soluble Fe(III)‐citrate and solid‐phase hydrous ferric oxide, although growth is sustained by pyruvate fermentation rather than Fe(III) respiration. Despite the fact that Fe(III) reduction does not support direct energy conservation, D. reducens uses it as a complementary means of discarding excess reducing equivalent after H2 accumulation in the culture headspace renders proton reduction unfavorable. Thus, Fe(III) reduction permits the oxidation of greater amounts of pyruvate than fermentation alone. Fe(III) reduction by D. reducens is mediated by a soluble electron carrier, most likely riboflavin. Additionally, an intracellular electron storage molecule acts as a capacitor and accumulates electrons during pyruvate oxidation for slow release to Fe(III). The reductase responsible for the transfer of electrons from the capacitor to the soluble carrier has not been identified, but data presented here argue against the involvement of c‐type cytochromes.
Retraction: In vivo potentiation of human oestrogen receptor α by Cdk7‐mediated phosphorylation
Authors: Ito Saya , Takeyama Ken‐ichi , Yamamoto Ayako , Sawatsubashi Shun , Shirode Yuko , Kouzmenko Alexander , Tabata Tetsuya , Kato Shigeaki
Published: November 2013

Retraction: The above article in Genes to Cells (doi: 10.1111/j.1365‐2443.2004.00777.x), published online on 6 October 2004 in Wiley Online Library (http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/), has been retracted by agreement between the authors, the journal Editor in Chief, Mitsuhiro Yanagida, and Wiley Publishing Asia Pty Ltd. The retraction has been agreed to due to multiple usage of the tissue images in Figures 1(B), 2, 3(C), 4 and 6, and the absence of the gel image for the lane 5 of ‘GFP’ in Figure 1(B).
MALDI imaging mass spectrometry in glomerulonephritis: feasibility study
Authors: Mainini Veronica , Pagni Fabio , Ferrario Franco , Pieruzzi Federico , Grasso Marco , Stella Andrea , Cattoretti Giorgio , Magni Fulvio
Published: November 2013

Aims

The in‐situ proteomics technology known as matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization imaging mass spectrometry (MALDI‐IMS) is a powerful technique that combines traditional histology and proteomics.

Methods and results

MALDI‐IMS was applied to routine diagnostic kidney biopsies in a small group of cases of membranous glomerulonephritis and minimal change disease. Molecular changes were observed not only in the tissue areas with pathological alterations, but also in morphologically normal‐looking tissue, highlighting the potential feasibility of using MALDI‐IMS as a tool in nephropathology.

Conclusions

This technology can be applied to any biopsy where a frozen section is obtained as part of the diagnostic process. Although we do not yet know the molecular identity of the differentially expressed proteins/peptides, they could represent powerful classifiers of nosological groups.
The cumulative effects of management on the population dynamics of the Double‐crested Cormorant Phalacrocorax auritus in the Great Lakes
Authors: Guillaumet Alban , Dorr Brian S. , Wang Guiming , Doyle Terry J.
Published: November 2013

Wildlife species have been subject to control efforts throughout human history due to real or alleged human–wildlife conflicts. The Double‐crested Cormorant Phalacrocorax auritus in the interior of North America is no exception, with recent population growth leading to increased conflicts and consequently the development of many control programmes. These control programmes are usually conducted at local scales, often with little or no effort to assess their cumulative effects at the population level. We attempted the first comprehensive assessment of the cumulative effects of control at various spatio‐temporal scales, focusing on 199 colonies of Double‐crested Cormorant monitored during a 29‐year period. Linear models were used to assess the relationship between colony‐specific growth rates and a set of candidate factors using an information‐theoretic approach. Colony‐level density‐dependent effects and local control efforts had the greatest influences on population growth. We detected a cumulative effect of management, whereby (i) the reduction in population growth rate was generally stronger when different control activities such as culling or egg oiling were combined, and (ii) past control operations tended to have a pervasive impact on growth rates, especially egg oiling and nest destruction, which negatively affected local recruitment. However, our results also suggest that catastrophic events and the culling of breeding adults that occurred at least 2 years previously could fuel subsequent recruitment or natural immigration from nearby colonies, for instance if the breeding success of remaining pairs was increased through a diminution of density‐dependent regulatory processes. Density‐dependence at the metapopulation level constituted a third source of regulation, as local growth rates were reduced with increasing number or proximity of active neighbouring colonies. We also found evidence that the culling of Double‐crested Cormorants wintering in the southeastern USA could negatively impact the population growth of individual breeding colonies in the Great Lakes, although further research integrating models of migratory connectivity is needed to reach more definitive conclusions. Finally, despite previous studies emphasizing its importance, the net effect of management‐induced dispersal appeared small at large spatial scales. We show that this can be explained in part by control strategies (e.g. spatially clustered operations). The continuation of Cormorant management efforts will provide an opportunity to refine the present assessment of the relative importance of density‐dependence, breeding vs. non‐breeding season management and dispersal, particularly if population models are coupled with monitoring programmes within an adaptive management framework.
The demography of a newly establishedOspreyPandion haliaetuspopulation inFrance
Authors: Wahl Rolf , Barbraud Christophe
Published: November 2013

Using long‐term mark–resighting data acquired over 27 years in continentalFrance, we estimated demographic parameters and modelled the dynamics of a newly established population ofOspreysPandion haliaetususing a life‐history model. We then performed prospective and retrospective analyses to estimate the sensitivity of the population growth rate to demographic parameters, and to quantify their contribution to the observed variation in abundance. The observed population growth rate was estimated at 1.150 (from one to 38 pairs in the period 1985–2011), and the stochastic population growth rate was estimated at 1.156. The number of fledglings per nest made the largest contribution to the variance of the observed population growth rate. Breeding productivity was stable across years. In contrast, the prospective analysis indicated that the sensitivity of the population growth rate was greatest for immigration and adult survival. Our results suggest that the increase of a new and recently established breeding population ofOspreys was mainly driven by local dynamics (high productivity and high proportion of breeding individuals), with no sign of density‐dependence except for juvenile survival. This probably reflects highly favourable conditions for breeding. Our results show that productivity can be a major driver in recovering raptor populations, and conservation work should aim to protect occupied nest‐sites and their surrounding habitat and to maintain highly favourable foraging areas in the vicinity of breeding sites.
Elegant‐crested TinamousEudromia elegansdo not synchronize head and leg movements during head‐bobbing
Authors: Hancock Jennifer A. , Stevens Nancy J. , Biknevicius Audrone R.
Published: November 2013

Head‐bobbing is the fore–aft movement of the head relative to the body during terrestrial locomotion in birds. It is considered to be a behaviour that helps to stabilize images on the retina during locomotion, yet some studies have suggested biomechanical links between the movements of the head and legs. This study analysed terrestrial locomotion and head‐bobbing in the Elegant‐crested TinamouEudromia elegansat a range of speeds by synchronously recording high‐speed video and ground reaction forces in a laboratory setting. The results indicate that the timing of head and leg movements are dissociated from one another. Nonetheless, head and neck movements do affect stance duration, ground reaction forces and body pitch and, as a result, the movement of the centre of mass in head‐bobbing birds. This study does not support the hypothesis that head‐bobbing is itself constrained by terrestrial locomotion. Instead, it suggests that visual cues are the primary trigger for head‐bobbing in birds, and locomotion is, in turn, constrained by a need for image stabilization and depth perception.
Integrating pharmacists into primary care teams: barriers and facilitators
Authors: Jorgenson Derek , Laubscher Tessa , Lyons Barry , Palmer Rebecca
Published: November 2013

Objectives

This study evaluated the barriers and facilitators that were experienced as pharmacists were integrated into 23 existing primary care teams located in urban and rural communities in Saskatchewan, Canada.

Methods

Qualitative design using data from one-on-one telephone interviews with pharmacists, physicians and nurse practitioners from the 23 teams that integrated a new pharmacist role. Four researchers from varied backgrounds used thematic analysis of the interview transcripts to determine key themes. The research team met on multiple occasions to agree on the key themes and received written feedback from an external auditor and two of the original interviewees.

Key findings

Seven key themes emerged describing the barriers and facilitators that the teams experienced during the pharmacist integration: (1) relationships, trust and respect; (2) pharmacist role definition; (3) orientation and support; (4) pharmacist personality and professional experience; (5) pharmacist presence and visibility; (6) resources and funding; and (7) value of the pharmacist role. Teams from urban and rural communities experienced some of these challenges in unique ways.

Conclusions

Primary care teams that integrated a pharmacist experienced several common barriers and facilitators. The negative impact of these barriers can be mitigated with effective planning and support that is individualized for the type of community where the team is located.
Standing laparoscopic inguinal hernioplasty using cyanoacrylate for preventing recurrence of acquired strangulated inguinal herniation in 10 stallions
Authors: Rossignol Fabrice , Mespoulhes‐Rivière Céline , Vitte Amélie , Lechartier Antoine , Boening Karl Joseph
Published: November 2013

Objective

To describe a technique for standing inguinal hernioplasty in horses using cyanoacrylate glue, and to evaluate its effect on prevention of recurrent inguinal herniation in stallions that had previous acquired strangulated inguinal hernia (SIH).

Study design

Case series.

Animals

Stallions (n = 10) with a history of SIH.

Methods

Hernioplasty was performed in standing horses using 4 laparoscopic portals. The mesorchium was retracted caudomedially using Babcock forceps. A flexible polyethylene extension tube was introduced through the sheath of a laparoscopic needle andn‐butyl‐2‐cyanoacrylate (2 mL) was injected into the inguinal canal including its margins while a 2nd Babcock forceps prevented deep ventral diffusion of the cyanoacrylate. The craniolateral parts of the vaginal ring were compressed until full adhesion between the visceral and parietal walls was achieved. In 2 horses, the lateral part of the vaginal ring was sutured before gluing. A contralateral approach was used to check the caudomedial part of the vaginal ring.

Results

No recurrence (1–4 years) of inguinal hernia was reported. No major complications occurred and cosmetic outcome was excellent. All horses were used for their intended purpose and 7 horses being used as breeding stallions remained fertile.

Conclusion

Standing inguinal hernioplasty using cyanoacrylate seems to provide efficient and secure closure of the vaginal ring in stallions.
Mapping Alberta's surface water resources for the period 1971–2000
Authors: Kienzle Stefan W. , Mueller Markus
Published: November 2013

Although the sustainability and wealth of Alberta is closely linked to the quantity, quality, and management of its water resources, the province lacks watershed‐based inventories of its water supplies. The mean annual water yield for 287 gauged watersheds across Alberta was calculated for the period 1971–2000 by relating available streamflow records with the respective watershed areas. The percent contribution of each watershed relative to the outlet of each of the 16 major river basins located in Alberta was computed, which enabled the identification of the most important water‐producing regions. The integration of high‐resolution precipitation normal maps, available for the same period, enabled the calculation of mean annual runoff coefficients and the determination of mean annual regional water balances. These analyses resulted in important water resources baseline data, against which impacts of environmental and climate change can be compared. All data are available online in the form of spreadsheets and shapefiles.
Beware the switching voter: Why the protest vote is no safe bet for Labour
Authors: Curtice John
Published: November 2013

John Curtice says Labour will struggle to win in 2015 if it simply relies on capturing the votes of disaffected Liberal Democrats and those who did not vote in 2010.
High Correlation of Estimated Local Conduction Velocity with Natural Logarithm of Bipolar Electrogram Amplitude in the Reentry Circuit of Atrial Flutter
Authors: ITOH TAIHEI , KIMURA MASAOMI , SASAKI SHINGO , OWADA SHINGEN , HORIUCHI DAISUKE , SASAKI KENICHI , ISHIDA YUJI , TAKAHIKO KINJO , OKUMURA KEN
Published: November 2013

Relation of Electrogram Amplitude to Conduction Velocity

Background

Low conduction velocity (CV) in the area showing low electrogram amplitude (EA) is characteristic of reentry circuit of atypical atrial flutter (AFL). The quantitative relationship between CV and EA remains unclear. We characterized AFL reentry circuit in the right atrium (RA), focusing on the relationship between local CV and bipolar EA on the circuit.

Methods and Results

We investigated 26 RA AFL (10 with typical AFL; 10 atypical incisional AFL; 6 atypical nonincisional AFL) using CARTO system. By referring to isochronal and propagation maps delineated during AFL, points activated faster on the circuit were selected (median, 7 per circuit). At the 196 selected points obtained from all patients, local CV measured between the adjacent points and bipolar EA were analyzed. There was a highly significant correlation between local CV and natural logarithm of EA (lnEA) (R2 = 0.809, P < 0.001). Among 26 AFL, linear regression analysis of mean CV, calculated by dividing circuit length (152.3 ± 41.7 mm) by tachycardia cycle length (TCL) (median 246 msec), and mean lnEA, calculated by dividing area under curve of lnEA during one tachycardia cycle by TCL, showed y = 0.695 + 0.191x (where: y = mean CV, x = lnEA; R2 = 0.993, P < 0.001). Local CV estimated from EA with the use of this formula showed a highly significant linear correlation with that measured by the map (R2 = 0.809, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The lnEA and estimated local CV show a highly positive linear correlation. CV is possibly estimated by EA measured by CARTO mapping.
Dawn; the Vesta–HED connection; and the geologic context for eucrites, diogenites, and howardites
Authors: McSween Harry Y. , Binzel Richard P. , De Sanctis M. Cristina , Ammannito Eleonora , Prettyman Thomas H. , Beck Andrew W. , Reddy Vishnu , Le Corre Lucille , Gaffey Michael J. , McCord Thomas B. , Raymond Carol A. , Russell Christopher T. ,   the Dawn Science Team
Published: November 2013

The Dawn mission has provided new evidence strengthening the identification of asteroid Vesta as the parent body of the howardite, eucrite, and diogenite (HED) meteorites. The evidence includes Vesta's petrologic complexity, detailed spectroscopic characteristics, unique space weathering, diagnostic geochemical abundances and neutron absorption characteristics, chronology of surface units and impact history, occurrence of exogenous carbonaceous chondritic materials in the regolith, and dimensions of the core, all of which are consistent with HED observations and constraints. Global mapping of the distributions of HED lithologies by Dawn cameras and spectrometers provides the missing geologic context for these meteorites, thereby allowing tests of petrogenetic models and increasing their scientific value.
Composition and petrology of HED polymict breccias: The regolith of (4) Vesta
Authors: Mittlefehldt David W. , Herrin Jason S. , Quinn Julie E. , Mertzman Stanley A. , Cartwright Julia A. , Mertzman Karen R. , Peng Zhan X.
Published: November 2013

We have done petrologic and compositional studies on a suite of polymict eucrites and howardites to better understand regolith processes on their parent asteroid, which we accept is (4) Vesta. Taking into account noble gas results from companion studies, we interpret five howardites to represent breccias assembled from the true regolith: Elephant Moraine (EET) 87513, Grosvenor Mountains (GRO) 95535, GRO 95602, Lewis Cliff (LEW) 85313, and Meteorite Hills (MET) 00423. We suggest that EET 87503 is paired with EET 87513, and thus is also regolithic. Pecora Escarpment (PCA) 02066 is dominated by melt‐matrix clasts, which may have been formed from true regolith by impact melting. These meteorites display a range in eucrite:diogenite mixing ratio from 55:45 to 76:24. There is no correlation between degree of regolith character and Ni content. The Ni contents of howardite, eucrite, and diogenites (HEDs) are mostly controlled by the distribution of coarse chondritic clasts and metal grains, which in some cases resulted from individual, low‐velocity accretion events, rather than extensive regolith gardening. Trace element compositions indicate that the mafic component of HED polymict breccias is mostly basalt similar to main‐group eucrites; Stannern‐trend basaltic debris is less common. Pyroxene compositions show that some trace element‐rich howardites contain abundant debris from evolved basalts, and that cumulate gabbro debris is present in some breccias. The scale of heterogeneity varies considerably; regolithic howardite EET 87513 is more homogeneous than fragmental howardite Queen Alexandra Range (QUE) 97001. Individual samples of a given howardite can have different compositions even at roughly 5 g masses, indicating that obtaining representative meteorite compositions requires multiple or large samples.
Evaluating summary statistics used to test for incomplete lineage sorting: mito‐nuclear discordance in the reef sponge Callyspongia vaginalis
Authors: DeBiasse Melissa B. , Nelson Bradley J. , Hellberg Michael E.
Published: November 2013

Conflicting patterns of population differentiation between the mitochondrial and nuclear genomes (mito‐nuclear discordance) have become increasingly evident as multilocus data sets have become easier to generate. Incomplete lineage sorting (ILS) of nucDNA is often implicated as the cause of such discordance, stemming from the large effective population size of nucDNA relative to mtDNA. However, selection, sex‐biased dispersal and historical demography can also lead to mito‐nuclear discordance. Here, we compare patterns of genetic diversity and subdivision for six nuclear protein‐coding gene regions to those for mtDNA in a common Caribbean coral reef sponge, Callyspongia vaginalis, along the Florida reef tract. We also evaluated a suite of summary statistics to determine which are effective metrics for comparing empirical and simulated data when testing drivers of mito‐nuclear discordance in a statistical framework. While earlier work revealed three divergent and geographically subdivided mtDNACOI haplotypes separated by 2.4% sequence divergence, nuclear alleles were admixed with respect to mitochondrial clade and geography. Bayesian analysis showed that substitution rates for the nuclear loci were up to 7 times faster than for mitochondrial COI. Coalescent simulations and neutrality tests suggested that mito‐nuclear discordance in C. vaginalis is not the result of ILS in the nucDNA or selection on the mtDNA but is more likely caused by changes in population size. Sperm‐mediated gene flow may also influence patterns of population subdivision in the nucDNA.
Interdisciplinary Treatment of Patients with Fibromyalgia: Improvement of Their Health‐Related Quality of Life
Authors: Martín Josune , Torre Fernando , Padierna Angel , Aguirre Urko , González Nerea , Matellanes Begoña , Quintana José M.
Published: November 2013

Objective

To assess whether an interdisciplinary intervention is more effective than usual care for improving the health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) among patients with fibromyalgia (FM), and to identify variables that were predictors of improvement inHRQoL.

Methods

In a randomized controlled clinical trial carried out on an outpatient basis in a hospital pain management unit, 153 patients withFMwere randomly allocated to an experimental group (EG) or a control group (CG). Participants completed the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ) at baseline and 6 months after the intervention. TheEGreceived an interdisciplinary treatment (12 sessions for 6 weeks) which consisted of coordinated psychological, medical, educational, and physiotherapeutic interventions while theCGreceived standard‐of‐care pharmacologic treatment. Descriptive statistics,ANOVA,Chi square andFisher tests and generalized linear models were used for data analysis.

Results

Six months after the intervention, statistically significant improvements inHRQoLwere observed in physical functioning (P = 0.01), pain (P = 0.03) and totalFIQscore (P = 0.04) in theEGcompared to theCG. The number of physical illnesses was identified as a predictor for improvement.

Conclusions

This interdisciplinary intervention has shown effectiveness in improving theHRQoLof this sample of patients withFM. The number of physical illnesses was identified as a predictor of that improvement.
Subcutaneous Injection of Diclofenac for the Treatment of Pain Following Minor Orthopedic Surgery (DIRECT study): A Randomized Trial
Authors: Chiarello Eugenio , Bernasconi Stefano , Gugliotta Barbara , Giannini Sandro
Published: November 2013

Objectives

Parenteral diclofenac is frequently used for analgesia following minor orthopedic interventions. Currently available diclofenac formulations are for intramuscular (IM) or intravenous injection. A new 1 mL volume formulation of diclofenac containing hydroxypropyl‐β‐cyclodextrin (HPβCD) allows both SC and IM administration. The objective of this open‐label, randomized, parallel group, active‐controlled study was to assess the safety and efficacy of 75 mg diclofenac HPβCD, administered SC or IM, compared with IM Voltaren® 75 mg in inpatients undergoing minor orthopedic surgeries with moderate‐to‐severe postoperative pain.

Methods

A total of 325 patients were randomized to treatment. Surgery‐related pain was comparable between groups before treatment and rapidly declined in all patients following diclofenac injection. The primary endpoint was investigator‐assessed local tolerability up to 18 hours postinjection (redness, swelling, and hardening at the injection site each scored on a 4‐point scale where 0 = none, 1 = mild, 2 = moderate, and 3 = severe).

Results

Local tolerability was found to be optimal for all the injected formulations, with mean overall scores (0 to 9) of 0.57, 0.31, and 0.26, for diclofenac HPβCD SC, diclofenac HPβCD IM, and Voltaren® IM, respectively. Consistently, the overall tolerability as judged by the patients and investigators was reported as good or excellent in more than 90% of cases in all groups.

Conclusions

Overall, the study results indicate that safety and efficacy were similar irrespective of the diclofenac formulation used; thus, the new SC diclofenac HPβCD has an acceptable tolerability profile and may be considered a valid alternative to IM‐delivered diclofenac formulations.
A Comprehensive Drug Safety Evaluation of Pregabalin in Peripheral Neuropathic Pain
Authors: Freynhagen Rainer , Serpell Michael , Emir Birol , Whalen Ed , Parsons Bruce , Clair Andrew , Latymer Mark
Published: November 2013

Pregabalin is a commonly used therapy currently recommended as first‐line treatment for a number of neuropathic pain (NeP) conditions. Since licensure, a number of clinical trials of pregabalin in different NeP conditions have been completed from which additional data on safety and tolerability can be drawn. In this analysis, patient‐level data from 31 randomized clinical trials of pregabalin in peripheral NeP sponsored by Pfizer were pooled and assessed for incidence of adverse events (AEs). Incidence by age, disease condition, and race, together with risk differences and time to onset and resolution of AEs, was assessed. In total, 7,510 patients were included: 4,884 on pregabalin (representing 805 patient‐years treatment) and 2,626 on placebo. Pregabalin vs. placebo risk analysis identified 9 AEs with a risk difference, for which the lower limit of the 95% confidence interval (CI) was > 1%: dizziness (risk difference [95% CI]: (17.0 [15.4 to 18.6]), somnolence (10.8 [9.5 to 12.1]), peripheral edema (5.4 [4.3 to 6.4]), weight increase (4.7 [3.9 to 5.5]), dry mouth (2.9 [2.1 to 3.8]), constipation (2.3 [1.5 to 3.2]), blurred vision (2.2 [1.6 to 2.9]), balance disorder (2.0 [1.5 to 2.5]), and euphoric mood (1.6 [1.2 to 2.0]). The most common AEs, dizziness and somnolence, typically emerged within the first 1 to 2 weeks of treatment and resolved 1 to 2 weeks later, without resulting in cessation of treatment. The data from this review provide information, indicating which AEs may be expected in patients treated with pregabalin, and suggest that careful dose titration to the highest tolerable dose is the most appropriate approach in clinical practice.
Social Processes in Lobbyist Agenda Development: A Longitudinal Network Analysis of Interest Groups and Legislation
Authors: Scott John C.
Published: November 2013

How are lobbying agendas formed? While individual interest matters, a social process may also affect why lobbyists choose legislation on which to lobby. In a crowded environment, looking at what credible others do may help lobbyists lower their search and information costs with regard to an issue. Using longitudinal network data on lobbyists' legislative choices, I analyze the choices of organizations using an actor‐based dynamic model of network change that conditions agenda changes on the choices made by other organizations. The results suggest both a “bandwagon” process in which organizations converge on “popular” bills and an influence process in which lobbying organizations influence each other when their lobbying agendas overlap. In support of the quantitative findings, interviews with lobbyists show that the policy domain is a social community that consists of ongoing relationships, trust, and information sharing.
Policy Language in Restoration Ecology
Authors: Jørgensen Dolly , Nilsson Christer , Hof Anouschka R. , Hasselquist Eliza M. , Baker Susan , Chapin F. Stuart , Eckerberg Katarina , Hjältén Joakim , Polvi Lina , Meyerson Laura A.
Published: November 2013

Relating restoration ecology to policy is one of the aims of the Society for Ecological Restoration and its journal Restoration Ecology. As an interdisciplinary team of researchers in both ecological science and political science, we have struggled with how policy‐relevant language is and could be deployed in restoration ecology. Using language in scientific publications that resonates with overarching policy questions may facilitate linkages between researcher investigations and decision‐makers' concerns on all levels. Climate change is the most important environmental problem of our time and to provide policymakers with new relevant knowledge on this problem is of outmost importance. To determine whether or not policy‐specific language was being included in restoration ecology science, we surveyed the field of restoration ecology from 2008 to 2010, identifying 1,029 articles, which we further examined for the inclusion of climate change as a key element of the research. We found that of the 58 articles with “climate change” or “global warming” in the abstract, only 3 identified specific policies relevant to the research results. We believe that restoration ecologists are failing to include themselves in policy formation and implementation of issues such as climate change within journals focused on restoration ecology. We suggest that more explicit reference to policies and terminology recognizable to policymakers might enhance the impact of restoration ecology on decision‐making processes.
Cost‐Effective Application of Thermal Protection on LPG Road Transport Tanks for Risk Reduction Due to Hot BLEVE Incidents
Authors: Birk A. M.
Published: November 2013

A simplified risk and cost‐benefit analysis is presented for the application of thermal protection (TP) on propane and LPG highway tanker trucks operating in North America. A risk analysis is performed to determine the benefits of risk reduction by TP, relative to the costs of applying and maintaining TP on a tanker truck. The results show that TP is cost effective if the tanker truck spends enough time (or travels enough distance) in areas of moderate or high population density. The analysis is very sensitive to a number of inputs, including: (i) value of life, (ii) hot boiling liquid expanding vapor explosion frequency, (iii) public exposure to severe hazards, and (iv) life cost of TP. With this simplified analysis, it is possible to generate tanker truck exposure times to the public that justify the application of TP based on cost and benefit considerations.
The effect of topical ophthalmic 1% atropine on heart rate and rhythm in normal dogs
Authors: Greenberg Shari , Plummer Caryn , Maisenbacher Herbert , Friary John , Berg Alexia
Published: November 2013

Objective

To determine if topically administered ophthalmic atropine affects heart rate or rhythm in clinically normal dogs.

Methods

Two groups of 15 healthy dogs were evaluated, one consisting of dogs weighing <15 kg, the other consisting of dogs weighing >15 kg. Each dog was suited with a Holter monitor. At start time 0, dogs received one drop of ophthalmic 1% atropine solution, or one drop of sterile saline solution as a control in each eye, via random assignment. Each dog served as their own control. This procedure was repeated two more times, at 6‐h intervals, for a total of three treatments over a 12‐h period. Holter monitors recorded heart rate and rhythm for 24 h. Statistical analysis was performed to compare values between the groups. Dose dependent changes in cardiac parameters were evaluated.

Results

The mean heart rate and average minimum heart rate was significantly higher during the treatment period compared to the control period (8% and 13%, respectively). The mean number of hours with a heart rate <50 bpm decreased by 47% in the treatment vs. the control period. The mean maximum heart rate and number of h with a heart rate > 180 bpm did not differ significantly between the two groups. There was no evidence of dose dependence on heart rate when comparing small and large dogs. No significant differences in heart rhythm were noted between groups for measurable parameters.

Conclusions

Topically administered atropine causes a small but significant increase in heart rate in healthy dogs.
Transepithelial Transport of Fc-Targeted Nanoparticles by the Neonatal Fc Receptor for Oral Delivery
Authors: Pridgen Eric M. , Alexis Frank , Kuo Timothy T. , Levy-Nissenbaum Etgar , Karnik Rohit , Blumberg Richard S. , Langer Robert , Farokhzad Omid C.
Published: November 2013

Nanoparticles targeted to the neonatal Fc receptor cross the intestinal epithelium and reach systemic circulation after oral administration.
Real-Time, Aptamer-Based Tracking of Circulating Therapeutic Agents in Living Animals
Authors: Ferguson Brian Scott , Hoggarth David A. , Maliniak Dan , Ploense Kyle , White Ryan J. , Woodward Nick , Hsieh Kuangwen , Bonham Andrew J. , Eisenstein Michael , Kippin Tod E. , Plaxco Kevin W. , Soh Hyongsok Tom
Published: November 2013

An aptamer-based biosensor continuously measures the concentration of drug molecules in the blood of living animals and in patient samples.
TB or Not TB: That Is No Longer the Question
Authors: Modlin Robert L. , Bloom Barry R.
Published: November 2013

The study of TB in humans is essential for understanding the disease, as well as for developing better treatment and prevention strategies.
The Affordable Care Act as Translational Research
Authors: Selker Harry P. , Frist William H. , Altman Stuart H.
Published: November 2013

The Affordable Care Act is the biggest U.S. health care policy experiment since Medicare and deserves our support.
Too Much of a Good Thing?
Authors: Sohal Vikaas S.
Published: November 2013

Overexpression of the synaptic scaffolding protein SHANK3 is associated with hyperactive behavior and an imbalance between synaptic excitation and inhibition.
Proteomic and Transcriptomic Analyses of “CandidatusPelagibacter ubique” Describe the First PII-Independent Response to Nitrogen Limitation in a Free-Living Alphaproteobacterium
Authors: Smith Daniel P. , Thrash J. Cameron , Nicora Carrie D. , Lipton Mary S. , Burnum-Johnson Kristin E. , Carini Paul , Smith Richard D. , Giovannoni Stephen J.
Published: November 2013

Nitrogen is one of the major nutrients limiting microbial productivity in the ocean, and as a result, most marine microorganisms have evolved systems for responding to nitrogen stress. The highly abundant alphaproteobacterium “CandidatusPelagibacter ubique,” a cultured member of the orderPelagibacterales(SAR11), lacks the canonical GlnB, GlnD, GlnK, and NtrB/NtrC genes for regulating nitrogen assimilation, raising questions about how these organisms respond to nitrogen limitation. A survey of 266Alphaproteobacteriagenomes found these five regulatory genes nearly universally conserved, absent only in intracellular parasites and members of the orderPelagibacterales, including “Ca. Pelagibacter ubique.” Global differences in mRNA and protein expression between nitrogen-limited and nitrogen-replete cultures were measured to identify nitrogen stress responses in “Ca.Pelagibacter ubique” strain HTCC1062. Transporters for ammonium (AmtB), taurine (TauA), amino acids (YhdW), and opines (OccT) were all elevated in nitrogen-limited cells, indicating that they devote increased resources to the assimilation of nitrogenous organic compounds. Enzymes for assimilating amine into glutamine (GlnA), glutamate (GltBD), and glycine (AspC) were similarly upregulated. Differential regulation of the transcriptional regulator NtrX in the two-component signaling system NtrY/NtrX was also observed, implicating it in control of the nitrogen starvation response. Comparisons of the transcriptome and proteome supported previous observations of uncoupling between transcription and translation in nutrient-deprived “Ca.Pelagibacter ubique” cells. Overall, these data reveal a streamlined, PII-independent response to nitrogen stress in “Ca.Pelagibacter ubique,” and likely otherPelagibacterales, and show that they respond to nitrogen stress by allocating more resources to the assimilation of nitrogen-rich organic compounds.

IMPORTANCEPelagibacteralesare extraordinarily abundant and play a pivotal role in marine geochemical cycles, as one of the major recyclers of labile dissolved organic matter. They are also models for understanding how streamlining selection can reshape chemoheterotroph metabolism. Streamlining and its broad importance to environmental microbiology are emerging slowly from studies that reveal the complete genomes of uncultured organisms. Here, we report another remarkable example of streamlined metabolism inPelagibacterales, this time in systems that control nitrogen assimilation.Pelagibacteralesare major contributors to metatranscriptomes and metaproteomes from ocean systems, where patterns of gene expression are used to gain insight into ocean conditions and geochemical cycles. The data presented here supply background that is essential to interpreting data from field studies.
Acupuncture Treatment of Chronic Low Back Pain Reverses An Abnormal Brain Default Mode Network in Correlation with Clinical Pain Relief
Authors: Li Ji , Zhang Jun-Hai , Yi Tao , Tang Wei-Jun , Wang Song-Wei , Dong Jing-Cheng
Published: November 2013

Background

Acupuncture is gaining in popularity as a treatment for chronic low back pain (cLBP); however, its therapeutic mechanisms remain controversial, partly because of the absence of an objective way of measuring subjective pain. Resting-state functional MRI (rsfMRI) has demonstrated aberrant default mode network (DMN) connectivity in patients with chronic pain, and also shown that acupuncture increases DMN connectivity in pain-modulator and affective-emotional brain regions of healthy subjects.

Objective

This study sought to explore how cLBP influences the DMN and whether, and how, the altered DMN connectivity is reversed after acupuncture for clinical pain.

Methods

RsfMRI data from 20 patients with cLBP, before and after 4 weeks of treatment, and 10 age- and gender-matched healthy controls (without treatment) were analysed using independent components analyses to determine connectivity within the DMN, and combined with correlation analyses to compute covariance between changes in DMN connectivity and changes in clinical pain. Visual analogue scale data were assessed to rate clinical pain levels.

Results

Less connectivity within the DMN was found in patients with cLBP than in healthy controls, mainly in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, medial prefrontal cortex, anterior cingulate gyrus and precuneus. After acupuncture, patients’ connectivities were restored almost to the levels seen in healthy controls. Furthermore, reductions in clinical pain were correlated with increases in DMN connectivity.

Conclusions

This result suggests that modulation of the DMN by acupuncture is related to its therapeutic effects on cLBP. Imaging of the DMN provides an objective method for assessment of the effects of acupuncture-induced analgesia.