bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental disconnection from common mycorrhizal networks has little effect on competitive interactions among common temperate grassland species
Authors: Milkereit Janina , Frossard Emmanuel , Stoll Peter , Wagg Cameron , Niklaus Pascal A.
Published: March 2018

The extent to which plants can reduce nutrient concentrations in soil and thereby compete with others may increase with nutrient mobility. Hyphae of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) can extend the soil volume from which plants acquire phosphorus (P), thus increasing competition for these resources with neighbours. In this study, we tested whether the suppression of hyphal interconnections between neighbour plants mitigates their competitive interactions and consequently affects plant community structure.

We used custom‐built microcosms that used a wire system to suppress the development of a common mycorrhizal network (CMN) between plant neighbours. We applied this CMN treatment to plants without neighbours (competition‐free controls), with conspecific neighbours (monocultures) or with heterospecific neighbours (two and four species communities), all assembled from two pools of four separate temperate grassland species each. We analysed changes in species and community‐level productivity and P acquisition.

The CMN treatment affected species differently. Most species had reduced shoot biomass while root biomass increased with CMN disconnection. Productivity and nutrient acquisition of Plantago lanceolata in four‐species mixtures was negatively affected, leading to a less even distribution of P among species, but community‐level P acquisition was not affected. On average, two‐species and four‐species mixtures produced similar community biomass and had the same P content as monocultures.

Synthesis. Common mycorrhizal network disconnection affected competitive interactions among species only little. One explanation may be that the absence of pronounced competitive hierarchy among the species investigated led to relatively symmetric interactions among species that were stable with respects to additional common mycorrhizal network effects. Another explanation is that common mycorrhizal network effects are less important in natural soils with natural arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi communities than experiments with few arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi strains and often sterilized soils suggest.
What factors influence time‐use of occupational therapists in the workplace? A systematic review
Authors: Summers Bianca E. , Laver Kate E. , Nicks Rebecca J. , Lannin Natasha A.
Published: March 2018

Background

Health‐care expenditure is rapidly increasing in Australia with increasing pressure on health‐care services to review processes, improve efficiency and ensure equity in service delivery. The nursing profession have improved efficiency and patient care by investigating time‐use to describe current practice and support development of workforce planning models. There is, however, a lack of information to understand factors that impact on occupational therapists time‐use in the clinical setting impacting the development of workforce planning models which adapt occupational therapy service delivery to match resources with demand. The objective of this review was to systematically identify known factors which impact on occupational therapists time‐use in the clinical setting.

Method

A systematic review of Medline, PsycINFO and CINAHL databases and grey literature was completed in September 2016. Two authors independently screened studies for inclusion and quality was evaluated using the Downs and Black scale. Variables impacting on occupational therapists time‐use were categorised and thematically analysed to synthesise key themes.

Results

Twenty studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. Three key categories of factors influencing time‐use were identified. These were: patient‐related factors (e.g. level of function, therapy required, type, complexity of injury), therapist‐related factors (e.g. experience, clinical vs non‐clinical responsibility), and organisational‐related factors (e.g. workplace characteristics, availability of staff, presence of students).

Conclusion

Occupational therapist time‐use in clinical settings is complex and difficult to quantify in research. How occupational therapists spend their time is impacted by a number of patient, clinician and service related factors reflecting the breadth of occupational therapy practice and client‐centred nature of the profession.
Scoring the home falls and accidents screening tool for health professionals (HOME FAST‐HP): Evidence from one epidemiological study
Authors: Mackenzie Lynette , Byles Julie
Published: March 2018

Background

Falls in older people are a major public health concern. To target falls prevention interventions, screening tools need to be able to identify older people at greater risk of falling. This study aimed to investigate the screening capacity of the Home Falls and Accidents Screening Tool for health professionals (HOME FAST‐HP), and to identify the best cut‐off score to identify older people at higher risk of falls using the HOME FAST‐HP.

Methods

The study used cross‐sectional data from a random sample of 650 women from the 1921 to 1926 cohort of the Australian Longitudinal Study of Women's Health (ALSWH). Selected women were sent a postal survey including the HOME FAST‐HP, falls history, and other health factors. Scores on the home fast were calculated and the cut‐point for optimal sensitivity and specificity of the HOME FAST‐HP in relation to falls was assessed using a Receiver Operating Characteristic curve.

Results

A total of 567 older women participated (response rate 87%). The mean age of participants was 77.5 yrs (95% CI 77.31–77.70). A total of 153 participants (27%) reported a fall in the previous six months. The mean number of hazards using the HOME FAST‐HP was 9.74 (95% CI 9.48–10.01), range 2–22. Non‐fallers had a mean of 9.6 hazards (95% CI 9.32–9.91) and fallers had a mean of 10.63 hazards (95% CI 10.08–11.19) which was a significant difference (t = 3.41, P = 0.001). The area under the receiver operator curve (AUC) was 0.58 (95% CI 0.53–0.64). A HOME FAST‐HP cut‐off score of 9 was associated with the optimal sensitivity for falls (73.9%), with specificity (37.9%), and positive predictive value was 30.6% and negative predictive value was 79.7%.

Conclusion

The HOME FAST‐HP can be used as a screening tool to identify fallers with a cut‐off score of nine indicating a higher risk of falling.
Being, belonging and becoming: Development of the 3B Scale
Authors: Rebeiro Gruhl Karen , Lacarte Sara , Boucher Martin , Ledrew Lauri
Published: March 2018

Background

The aim of the current study was to assess the construct validity and internal consistency of a measure used by an occupation‐based, mental health program. The measure was formulated according to the 3B theory of being, belong and becoming and system impacts.

Methods

The scale was administered to a sample of 122 current members of Northern Initiative for Social Action. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was carried out to examine the model fit of the 3B Scale. Internal reliability was assessed using Cronbach's alpha measure of internal consistency.

Results

The CFA confirmed the four hypothesised underlying constructs of the 3B theory. The results of the CFA reported adequate model fit. Each factor had good to excellent internal reliability with Cronbach's alpha ranging from 0.81 to 0.91.

Conclusion

The 3B Scale is a valid and reliable tool for measuring Being, Belonging and Becoming needs in an occupation‐based mental health program. The 3B Scale is an example of an outcome measure created specifically to quantify program outcomes and demonstrates that instruments suited to unique programs can be individually configured and assist occupational therapists in their efforts to measure client perspectives. These are the essential first steps to client‐centred practice and the development of practice‐based evidence. The 3B Scale may be useful to similar peer‐led programs, as well as community‐based occupational programs that foster participation. Further research is needed to determine whether the 3B Scale can detect change over time.
Enhancing leadership and relationships by implementing a peer mentoring program
Authors: Gafni Lachter Liat R. , Ruland Judith P.
Published: March 2018

Background

Peer‐mentoring is often described as effective means to promote professional and leadership skills, yet evidence on practical models of such programs for occupational therapy students are sparse. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of a peer‐mentoring program designed for graduate occupational therapy students.

Methods

Forty‐seven second‐year student volunteers were randomly assigned to individually mentor first‐year students in a year‐long program. Students met biweekly virtually or in person to provide mentorship on everyday student issues, according to mentees’ needs. Faculty‐led group activities prior and during the peer‐mentoring program took place to facilitate the mentorship relationships. Program effectiveness was measured using the Multi‐factor Leadership Questionnaire (Avolio & Bass, MLQ: Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire, 2004) and an open‐ended feedback survey.

Results

Results of multi‐variate MANOVA for repeated measures indicating significant enhancement in several leadership skills (F(12,46) = 4.0, P = 0.001, η2 = 0.579). Qualitative data from feedback surveys indicated that an opportunity to help; forming relationships; and structure as enabler were perceived as important participation outcomes. Students expressed high satisfaction and perceived value from their peer‐mentoring experience.

Conclusion

As we seek ways to promote our profession and the leadership of its members, it is recommended to consider student peer‐mentoring to empower them to practice and advance essential career skills from the initial stages of professional development. Evidence found in this study demonstrates that peer‐mentoring programs can promote leadership development and establishment of networks in an occupational therapy emerging professional community, at a low cost. The peer‐mentoring blueprint and lessons learned are presented with hopes to inspire others to implement peer‐mentoring programs in their settings.
Role of melatonin in blood pressure regulation: An adjunct anti‐hypertensive agent
Authors: Baker Jacquie , Kimpinski Kurt
Published: March 2018

Cardiovascular diseases account for approximately one‐third of all deaths each year. Of this, hypertension accounts for approximately 9.4 million deaths. Melatonin, the primary circadian hormone, has been substantiated as an effective and safe adjunct anti‐hypertensive agent. In support of this, melatonin receptors have been identified within the central and peripheral nervous system, as well as the cardiovascular system, including various vascular tissues. Therefore, it is not surprising that recent research has emerged highlighting a key role of melatonin in autonomic regulation of blood pressure. In animals, pinealectomies elicit peripheral vasoconstriction and hypertension. In studies involving humans, both healthy controls and patient populations of essential and nocturnal hypertension, melatonin administration demonstrates significant hypotensive effects that yield clinically significant results. However, the precise mechanism by which melatonin elicits its hypotensive effects in humans require further investigation. This review focuses on melatonin, its role within the cardiovascular system and the emerging implications for its use as an anti‐hypertensive agent. Additionally, this review will discuss the current thinking on potential mechanisms behind the hypotensive effects of melatonin including: endothelium‐dependent vasodilation, anti‐oxidant defence mechanisms and sympatho‐vagal autonomic regulation.
Metrical Grouping and Cliticisation in Middle Dutch: Evidence From Verse
Authors: Lahiri Aditi , Sytsema Johanneke
Published: March 2018

The syntax‐phonology mapping is rarely isomorphic. In Germanic, there is a strong tendency for weak (function) words to encliticise rather than to procliticise. Synchronic and diachronic evidence of encliticisation is available from a number of West and North Germanic languages (cf. Lahiri & Plank ). Our goal was to examine metrical grouping in Middle Dutch iambic and trochaic verse, in conjunction with orthographic contractions. Two of our texts, Mellibeus and Saladijn, are from Ms Marshall 29 (c. 1375) and the Lutgart (c. 1300). We asked, to what extent are orthographic contractions isomorphic with cliticisation, and how do they interact with metrical grouping? Furthermore, a close examination of the metre showed, that when properly scanned orthographic sequences of function words need not represent regular cliticisation patterns. First, words can be broken up in prosodic grouping and this holds also for orthographic contractions of function and/or lexical words (alsic < als ic) or (laetti < laet ghi). Second, contractions may not reflect cliticisation. They can be split across feet and the second element can be head of a foot; e.g. dade ic > dadic where ic can head the trochaic foot. Finally, we find that encliticisation is preferred to procliticisation in verse.
The ‘other’ London effect: the diversification of London's suburban grammar schools and the rise of hyper‐selective elite state schools
Authors: Gamsu Sol
Published: March 2018

This paper examines the rise of a new elite of ‘super‐state’ schools in London, revealing a growing divide within the state sector which problematizes claims that the capital is a ‘hotspot’ for social mobility (Social Mobility Commission ). Although recent research has revealed a ‘London effect’ in which students in the capital on Free School Meals outperform their peers in other regions (Greaves, Macmillan and Sibieta ), inequalities between London's schools in access to elite universities have been overlooked. Drawing on a case study of a suburban London grammar school, ‘King Henry's School’, I show how ethnic‐minority suburbanization has combined with an institutional strategy to compete with elite private schools. Strategies of selection have been mobilized alongside elements of elite ‘gentlemanly’ educational culture in order to reposition the school within the hierarchy of London's schools. The result is a hyper‐selective school which provides a conduit to elite universities for upwardly mobile British‐Asian students. I show that this strategy has strong parallels with the school's attempts in the early twentieth century to compete with London's fee‐paying ‘public’ schools. The continuing symbolic value of ‘traditional’ forms of elite educational culture to a school seeking to reposition itself within the field reflects deep structural patterns of inequality in English education. To understand how apparent improvements in social mobility can sit alongside deepening inequalities between state schools, there is a need for a historical sociological approach that takes account of long‐term processes of institutional change (Savage ; Inglis ).
‘Forget the Health and Care and just call them Education Plans’: SENCOs' perspectives on Education, Health and Care plans
Authors: Boesley Lauren , Crane Laura
Published: March 2018

In England, Education, Health and Care (EHC) plans are used to identify children's educational, health and social needs, and describe the additional support required to meet those needs. Replacing statements of special educational needs (SEN), the intent was to improve the process of accessing SEN provision through the greater participation of families in decision‐making processes, and increased collaboration between education, health and care sectors. Special educational needs co‐ordinators (SENCOs) play a pivotal role in the implementation of education reforms, and are often responsible for the application of EHC plans. As such, gaining insight into their experiences of initiating applications and transferring statements of SEN into EHC plans can help identify whether these documents are meeting their objectives as person‐led, wraparound care plans. This qualitative study used semi‐structured interviews to explore 16 SENCOs’ perspectives on the effectiveness of the process of applying for and transferring EHC plans. Thematic analysis of responses elicited three key themes: the perceived role of the SENCO in the EHC plan process; procedural challenges and changes – an evolving process; and difficulties in accessing an EHC plan for children with social, emotional and mental health needs.
Trends in Chemometrics: Food Authentication, Microbiology, and Effects of Processing
Authors: Granato Daniel , Putnik Predrag , Kovačević Danijela Bursać , Santos Jânio Sousa , Calado Verônica , Rocha Ramon Silva , Cruz Adriano Gomes Da , Jarvis Basil , Rodionova Oxana Ye , Pomerantsev Alexey
Published: March 2018

In the last decade, the use of multivariate statistical techniques developed for analytical chemistry has been adopted widely in food science and technology. Usually, chemometrics is applied when there is a large and complex dataset, in terms of sample numbers, types, and responses. The results are used for authentication of geographical origin, farming systems, or even to trace adulteration of high value‐added commodities. In this article, we provide an extensive practical and pragmatic overview on the use of the main chemometrics tools in food science studies, focusing on the effects of process variables on chemical composition and on the authentication of foods based on chemical markers. Pattern recognition methods, such as principal component analysis and cluster analysis, have been used to associate the level of bioactive components with in vitro functional properties, although supervised multivariate statistical methods have been used for authentication purposes. Overall, chemometrics is a useful aid when extensive, multiple, and complex real‐life problems need to be addressed in a multifactorial and holistic context. Undoubtedly, chemometrics should be used by governmental bodies and industries that need to monitor the quality of foods, raw materials, and processes when high‐dimensional data are available. We have focused on practical examples and listed the pros and cons of the most used chemometric tools to help the user choose the most appropriate statistical approach for analysis of complex and multivariate data.
Edible Films and Coatings as Carriers of Living Microorganisms: A New Strategy Towards Biopreservation and Healthier Foods
Authors: Guimarães Ana , Abrunhosa Luís , Pastrana Lorenzo M. , Cerqueira Miguel A.
Published: March 2018

Edible films and coatings have been extensively studied in recent years due to their unique properties and advantages over more traditional conservation techniques. Edible films and coatings improve shelf life and food quality, by providing a protective barrier against physical and mechanical damage, and by creating a controlled atmosphere and acting as a semipermeable barrier for gases, vapor, and water. Edible films and coatings are produced using naturally derived materials, such as polysaccharides, proteins, and lipids, or a mixture of these materials. These films and coatings also offer the possibility of incorporating different functional ingredients such as nutraceuticals, antioxidants, antimicrobials, flavoring, and coloring agents. Films and coatings are also able to incorporate living microorganisms. In the last decade, several works reported the incorporation of bacteria to confer probiotic or antimicrobial properties to these films and coatings. The incorporation of probiotic bacteria in films and coatings allows them to reach the consumers’ gut in adequate amounts to confer health benefits to the host, thus creating an added value to the food product. Also, other microorganisms, either bacteria or yeast, can be incorporated into edible films in a biocontrol approach to extend the shelf life of food products. The incorporation of yeasts in films and coatings has been suggested primarily for the control of the postharvest disease. This work provides a comprehensive review of the use of edible films and coatings for the incorporation of living microorganisms, aiming at the biopreservation and probiotic ability of food products.
Differential Decomposition Among Pig, Rabbit, and Human Remains
Authors: Dautartas Angela , Kenyhercz Michael W. , Vidoli Giovanna M. , Meadows Jantz Lee , Mundorff Amy , Steadman Dawnie Wolfe
Published: March 2018

While nonhuman animal remains are often utilized in forensic research to develop methods to estimate the postmortem interval, systematic studies that directly validate animals as proxies for human decomposition are lacking. The current project compared decomposition rates among pigs, rabbits, and humans at the University of Tennessee's Anthropology Research Facility across three seasonal trials that spanned nearly 2 years. The Total Body Score (TBS) method was applied to quantify decomposition changes and calculate the postmortem interval (PMI) in accumulated degree days (ADD). Decomposition trajectories were analyzed by comparing the estimated and actualADDfor each seasonal trial and by fuzzy cluster analysis. The cluster analysis demonstrated that the rabbits formed one group while pigs and humans, although more similar to each other than either to rabbits, still showed important differences in decomposition patterns. The decomposition trends show that neither nonhuman model captured the pattern, rate, and variability of human decomposition.
Are Statutory Requirements Followed in the Certification of Traumatic, Unexpected, and Unattended Deaths in Missouri?
Authors: Xaverius Pamela K. , Wambuguh Loise , Ward Craig , Salas Joanne , Alleman Elizabeth , Young Jeffrey , Berkemeier Jessica
Published: March 2018

Medical examiners and coroners (ME/Cs) investigate deaths important to public health. This cross‐sectional study evaluated 343,412 death certificates from 2007 to 2012 in Missouri. We examined agreement between cause and manner of death by year and ME/C contact as well as 2010–2012 trends in ME/C contact. There was near perfect agreement between cause and manner of death when an ME/C was contacted (kappa=0.97, p < 0.0001) and a significant increase in the proportion of deaths with ME/C contact from 2010 to 2012 (p =< 0.0001). There was a significantly higher proportion of ME/C‐certified deaths using the electronic system in 2010–2012 (aOR = 1.18, 95% CI 1.15, 1.21) compared to the manual system in 2007‐2009. Black, non‐Hispanic (aOR = 1.50, 95% CI 1.43,1.57) and Hispanic (aOR = 1.31, 95% CI 1.13, 1.51) deaths, compared to White, non‐Hispanic deaths, were associated with a significantly greater odds of ME/C certification. Race as an independent predictor of ME/C death certification warrants further research.
Functional Properties of a High Protein Beverage Stabilized with Oat‐β‐Glucan
Authors: Vasquez‐Orejarena Eva , Simons Christopher T. , Litchfield John H. , Alvarez Valente B.
Published: March 2018

This study evaluated the effect of oat flour and milk protein on the functional properties and sensory acceptability of shelf stable high protein dairy beverages containing at least 0.75 g of oat‐β‐glucan per serving size. Formulations adjusted to levels of 1.50% to 2.30% oat flour and 2.50% to 4.00% milk protein isolate (MPI) were thermal processed in a rotary retort. The finished product exhibited good suspension stability (>80%). The increase of oat and MPI contents lead to nectar‐like beverages (51 to 100 mPas). However, oat flour was the component showing the highest effect on the viscosity coefficient values of the beverages. Sensory evaluation indicated that formulations with less than 1.9% oat flour and 2.5% MPI (thin liquid, <50 mPas) were the most accepted. Mouthfeel (perceived thickness), sweetness and aftertaste had the most influence on overall liking of the beverages.

Practical Application

Overall, this study comprises the development of a functional food product. Supplementation of beverages with fiber from oats is an innovative approach to stabilize high protein beverages. Ready to drink protein beverage formulations use gums to stabilize the product and provide a desirable mouthfeel. The levels of oat‐β‐glucan used in the beverage increased the thickness and meet the requirement of the FDA approved health claim for reduction of the cardiovascular disease risk (21 CFR 101.81).
Using an injection port helps improve metabolic control and compliance to a strict basal‐bolus regimen in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Maltoni Giulio , Zioutas Maximiliano , Zucchini Stefano , Pession Andrea
Published: March 2018

Highlights

The use of an indwelling catheter may help achieve good metabolic control, reducing fear, pain, and discomfort related to insulin administration

Using an indwelling catheter may help achieve good metabolic control and prevent long‐term micro‐ and macrovascular complications in subjects with type 1 diabetes, maintaining adherence to multiple daily insulin treatment.

Using an indwelling catheter may the a first step in training for insulin pump therapy.
Cerebral amyloid angiopathy: Review of clinico‐radiological features and mimics
Authors: Sharma Rohit , Dearaugo Stephanie , Infeld Bernard , O'Sullivan Richard , Gerraty Richard P
Published: March 2018

Cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) is an important cause of lobar intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH) in the elderly, but has other clinico‐radiological manifestations. In the last two decades, certain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sequences, namely gradient‐recalled echo imaging and the newer and more sensitive susceptibility‐weighted imaging, have been utilised to detect susceptibility‐sensitive lesions such as cerebral microbleeds and cortical superficial siderosis. These can be utilised sensitively and specifically by the Modified Boston Criteria to make a diagnosis of CAA without the need for ‘gold‐standard’ histopathology from biopsy. However, recently, other promising MRI biomarkers of CAA have been described which may further increase precision of radiological diagnosis, namely chronic white matter ischaemia, cerebral microinfarcts and lobar lacunes, cortical atrophy, and increased dilated perivascular spaces in the centrum semiovale. However, the radiological manifestations of CAA, as well as their clinical correlates, may have other aetiologies and mimics. It is important for the radiologist to be aware of these clinico‐radiological features and mimics to accurately diagnose CAA. This is increasingly important in a patient demographic that has a high prevalence for use of antiplatelet and antithrombotic medications for other comorbidities which inherently carries an increased risk of ICH in patients with CAA.
dinoref: A curated dinoflagellate (Dinophyceae) reference database for the 18S rRNA gene
Authors: Mordret Solenn , Piredda Roberta , Vaulot Daniel , Montresor Marina , Kooistra Wiebe H. C. F. , Sarno Diana
Published: March 2018

Dinoflagellates are a heterogeneous group of protists present in all aquatic ecosystems where they occupy various ecological niches. They play a major role as primary producers, but many species are mixotrophic or heterotrophic. Environmental metabarcoding based on high‐throughput sequencing is increasingly applied to assess diversity and abundance of planktonic organisms, and reference databases are definitely needed to taxonomically assign the huge number of sequences. We provide an updated 18S rRNA reference database of dinoflagellates: dinoref. Sequences were downloaded from genbank and filtered based on stringent quality criteria. All sequences were taxonomically curated, classified taking into account classical morphotaxonomic studies and molecular phylogenies, and linked to a series of metadata. dinoref includes 1,671 sequences representing 149 genera and 422 species. The taxonomic assignation of 468 sequences was revised. The largest number of sequences belongs to Gonyaulacales and Suessiales that include toxic and symbiotic species. dinoref provides an opportunity to test the level of taxonomic resolution of different 18S barcode markers based on a large number of sequences and species. As an example, when only the V4 region is considered, 374 of the 422 species included in dinoref can still be unambiguously identified. Clustering the V4 sequences at 98% similarity, a threshold that is commonly applied in metabarcoding studies, resulted in a considerable underestimation of species diversity.
Investigating the possible mechanisms involved in adenosine preconditioning‐induced cardioprotection in rats
Authors: Singh Lovedeep , Virdi Jasleen K. , Maslov Leonid N. , Singh Nirmal , Jaggi Amteshwar S.
Published: March 2018

Background

Adenosine is a breakdown product of adenosine triphosphate and plays an important role in pharmacological preconditioning. The cardioprotective effects of adenosine preconditioning are well established. However, the possible mechanisms need to be explored.

Aim

This study was aimed to investigate the possible mechanisms involved in adenosine preconditioning‐induced cardioprotection in rats.

Methods

Rat heart was isolated and perfused on Langendorff apparatus. Global ischemia for 30 minutes followed by reperfusion for 120 minutes was employed to produce myocardial injury. Myocardial injury was assessed by measuring myocardial infarct size, release of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatine kinase (CK) in the coronary effluent and hemodynamic parameters including left ventricular developed pressure (LVDP), dp/dtmax, and dp/dtmin. Serum nitrite levels were measured as an index of nitric oxide release in blood.

Results

Adenosine (4 mg/kg) preconditioning significantly decreased ischemia‐reperfusion‐induced increase in LDH, CK release, infarct size, improved LVDP, dp/dtmax and dp/dtmin, and increased serum nitrite levels. Pretreatment with L‐NAME, a specific NOS inhibitor, (5 mg/kg) and montelukast, leukotriene receptor antagonist, (10 mg/kg) significantly abrogated the cardioprotective effect of adenosine preconditioning. However, seratrodast, thromboxane A2 antagonist, (15 mg/kg) had no effect on adenosine‐induced cardioprotection. Sodium nitroprusside (SNP) preconditioning also produced cardioprotective effects. However, caffeine (20 mg/kg) (adenosine receptor blocker) and seratrodast (15 mg/kg) had no effect on SNP‐induced cardioprotection. Administration of montelukast abrogated the cardioprotective effects of SNP preconditioning‐induced cardioprotection.

Conclusion

Adenosine preconditioning may increase the release of nitric oxide, which in turn may increase the release of cysteinyl leukotrienes to confer cardioprotection.
tRophicPosition, anrpackage for the Bayesian estimation of trophic position from consumer stable isotope ratios
Authors: Quezada‐Romegialli Claudio , Jackson Andrew L. , Hayden Brian , Kahilainen Kimmo K. , Lopes Christelle , Harrod Chris
Published: March 2018

Stable isotope analysis provides a powerful tool to identify the energy sources which fuel consumers, to understand trophic interactions and to infer consumer trophic position (TP), an important concept that describes the ecological role of consumers in food webs. However, current methods for estimating TP using stable isotopes are limited and do not fulfil the complete potential of the isotopic approach. For instance, researchers typically use point estimates for key parameters including trophic discrimination factors and isotopic baselines, and do not explicitly include variance associated with these parameters when calculating TP.

We present “tRophicPosition,” anrpackage incorporating a Bayesian model for the calculation of consumer TP at the population level using stable isotopes, with one or two baselines. It combines Markov Chain Monte Carlo simulations through JAGS and statistical and graphical analyses using R. We model consumer and baseline observations using relevant statistical distributions, allowing them to be treated as random variables. The calculation of TP—a random parameter—for one baseline follows standard equations linking15N enrichment per trophic level and the trophic position of the baseline (e.g. a primary producer or primary consumer). In the case of two baselines, a simple mixing model incorporating δ13C allows for the differentiation between two distinct sources of nitrogen, thus including heterogeneity derived from alternatives sources of δ15N.

Methods currently implemented in “tRophicPosition” include loading, plotting and summarizing stable isotope data either from multiple sites and/or communities or a local assemblage; loading trophic discrimination factors from an internal database or generating them; defining and initializing a Bayesian model of TP; sampling posterior parameters; analysing, comparing and plotting posterior estimates of TP and other parameters; and calculating a parametric (non‐Bayesian) TP estimate. Additionally, full documentation including examples, multiple vignettes and code are available for download.
Involvement of serum‐derived exosomes of elderly patients with bone loss in failure of bone remodeling via alteration of exosomal bone‐related proteins
Authors: Xie Yong , Gao Yanpan , Zhang Licheng , Chen Yanyu , Ge Wei , Tang Peifu
Published: March 2018

Exosomes are secreted into the blood by various types of cells. These extracellular vesicles are involved in the contribution of exosomal proteins to osteoblastic or osteoclastic regulatory networks during the failure of bone remodeling, which results in age‐related bone loss. However, the molecular changes in serum‐derived exosomes (SDEs) from aged patients with low bone density and their functions in bone remodeling remain to be fully elucidated. We present a quantitative proteomics analysis of exosomes purified from the serum of the elderly patients with osteoporosis/osteopenia and normal volunteers; these data are available via Proteome Xchange with the identifier PXD006463. Overall, 1,371 proteins were identified with an overlap of 1,160 Gene IDs among the ExoCarta proteins. Bioinformatics analysis and in vitro studies suggested that protein changes in SDEs of osteoporosis patients are not only involved in suppressing the integrin‐mediated mechanosensation and activation of osteoblastic cells, but also trigger the differentiation and resorption of osteoclasts. In contrast, the main changes in SDEs of osteopenia patients facilitated both activation of osteoclasts and formation of new bone mass, which could result in a compensatory elevation in bone remodeling. While the SDEs from aged normal volunteers might play a protective role in bone health through facilitating adhesion of bone cells and suppressing aging‐associated oxidative stress. This information will be helpful in elucidating the pathophysiological functions of SDEs and aid in the development of senile osteoporosis diagnostics and therapeutics.
Dissecting stock price momentum using financial statement analysis
Authors: Ahmed Anwer S. , Safdar Irfan
Published: March 2018

The literature on stock price momentum documents that past price performance predicts future price performance (over the next 3–12 months). We argue that past price performance can be driven either by fundamentals or by non‐fundamental reasons and financial statement analysis (FSA) can help distinguish between these drivers of past returns. We find that price momentum reverses where fundamentals are inconsistent with past price performance, allowing us to develop an investment strategy that outperforms a pure momentum strategy over 80 percent of the time. Overall, we document robust evidence on the usefulness of FSA for enhancing momentum strategies.
Natural cause mortality in persons with serious mental illness
Authors: Dickerson F. , Origoni A. , Schroeder J. , Adamos M. , Katsafanas E. , Khushalani S. , Savage C. L. G. , Schweinfurth L. A. B. , Stallings C. , Sweeney K. , Yolken R.
Published: March 2018

Objective

To identify the determinants of natural cause mortality in a cohort of individuals with serious mental illness assessed prospectively.

Method

Persons with schizophrenia (n = 789) and bipolar disorder (n = 498), mean age of 38 (s.d. 12.6) years, underwent an in‐person clinical assessment. They also had a blood sample drawn from which infectious disease markers were measured. Mortality was subsequently determined utilizing data from the National Death Index following a period of up to 16.9 years.

Results

A total of 6.8% (87 of 1287) of persons died of natural causes. Mortality was predicted in a multivariate model by baseline cigarette smoking (RR = 6.29, 95% CI 1.41, 3.72, P = 0.00076); divorced or widowed status (RR = 1.90, CI 1.21, 2.99); reduced cognitive score (RR = 0.73, CI 0.61, 0.87); receipt of antidepressant medication (RR = 1.74, CI 1.12, 2.71); elevated levels of antibodies to Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) (RR = 1.29, CI 1.01, 1.66); and a genitourinary (RR = 1.82, CI 1.16, 2.86), respiratory (RR = 1.82, CI 1.16, 2.86), or cardiac (RR = 2.09, CI 1.33, 3.29) condition. There was an additive effect of smoking and both a cardiac and a respiratory condition but not elevated EBV antibody levels.

Conclusion

Smoking is a modifiable behaviour which is associated with mortality in this population.
What predicts the richness of seeder and resprouter species in fire‐prone Cape fynbos: Rainfall reliability or vegetation density?
Authors: Cowling Richard M. , Gallien Laure , Richardson David M. , Ojeda Fernando
Published: March 2018

In ecosystems subject to regular canopy fires, woody species have evolved two general strategies of post‐fire regeneration. Seeder species are killed by fire and populations regenerate solely by post‐fire recruitment from a seed bank. Resprouter species survive fire and regenerate by vegetative regrowth from protected organs. Interestingly, the abundance of these strategies varies along environmental gradients and across regions. Two main hypotheses have been proposed to explain this spatial variation: the gap dependence and the environmental‐variability hypotheses. The gap‐dependence model predicts that seeders are favoured in sparse vegetation (vegetation gaps allowing effective post‐fire recruitment of seedlings), while resprouters are favoured in densely vegetated sites (seedlings being outcompeted by the rapid crown regrowth of resprouters). The environmental‐variability model predicts that seeders would prevail in reliable rainfall areas, whereas resprouters would be favoured in areas under highly variable rainfall that are prone to severe dry events (leading to high post‐fire seedling mortality). We tested these two models using distribution data, captured at the scale of quarter‐degree cells, for seeder and resprouter species of two speciose shrub genera (Aspalathus and Erica) common in fire‐prone fynbos ecosystems of the mediterranean‐climate part of the Cape Floristic Region. Contrary to the predictions of the gap‐dependence model, species number of both resprouters and seeders increased with values of the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (a widely used surrogate for vegetation density), with a more marked increase for seeders. The predictions of the environmental‐variability hypothesis, by contrast, were not refuted by this study. Seeder and resprouter species of both genera showed highest richness in environments with high rainfall reliability. However, with decreasing reliability, seeder numbers dropped more quickly than those of resprouters. We conclude that the environmental‐variability model is better able to explain the abundance of woody seeder and resprouter species in Southern Hemisphere fire‐prone shrublands (fynbos and kwongan) than the gap‐dependence model.
A rapid, precise and low‐cost method to quantify silicon for the determination of food intake and utilisation for insect herbivores
Authors: Clissold Fiona J , Clark Ximonie , Savage Tom , Simpson Stephen J
Published: March 2018

Determining intake and subsequent digestion and absorption of nutrients is fundamental for understanding host plant quality for insect herbivores. This typically involves considerable time spent weighing leaf material, with various associated sources of error and inaccuracy. Biomarker techniques based on silicon (Si) for estimating food intake and utilisation are well described, but rarely used, because there is no standard technique to either extract or quantify Si, there is a lack of congruence regarding the efficacy of existing techniques, and these techniques rely on large sample sizes, slow and laborious procedures, highly hazardous chemicals and/or expensive specialized equipment. To determine Si in milligram plant and faecal samples, we adapted the molybdenum blue assay to a microplate technique. This assay determines silicon (Si in 2% NaOH) over the range 0.3–1.5 μg Si/0.18 mL (1.7–8.3 μg/mL) and was able to detect changes of 1.0 × 10−9 g Si. Four of the most commonly used digestion techniques were compared, and we found that a technique based on the autoclave‐induced digestion method allowed the rapid and precise extraction and determination of silicon found in concentrations greater than 0.001% from ca. 2.5 mg of dry ground leaf material, a level of precision that far exceeds the 0.1–10% that silicon typically contributes to dry leaf matter. Using silicon as a biomarker reduced the weighing effort involved in traditional gravimetry by up to 95% and improved the precision (±SE) of estimates of food utilisation. Both the extraction and quantification steps require relatively inexpensive equipment that is available in most laboratories, uses micromasses of plant material and chemicals and is amenable to automation and high‐throughput processing.
Role of income in intergenerational co‐residence: Evidence from selected African and Asian countries
Authors: Aziz Nusrate , Hossain Belayet , Emran Masum
Published: March 2018

Objective

The study investigates the macroeconomic determinants of co‐residing arrangement between generations in selected developing countries with a focus on examining the effect of changing income level of the working generation.

Methods

A reduced form model is specified for co‐residence between the older generation and altruistic working generation. The fixed‐ and random‐effects models are applied in two waves of data for 22 countries.

Results

Estimated results indicate that the income of the altruistic working generation has a negative effect on co‐residence, suggesting that if the income of the working generation increases, co‐residence decreases. This decrease is greater for older men compared with their female counterparts. Life expectancy, literacy and culture also have significant influences on co‐residence.

Conclusion

Co‐residence is expected to fall in developing countries with economic growth over time. Consequently, a higher proportion of older citizens will be vulnerable in the future. Hence, governments of developing countries will face increasing pressure from their older people to provide appropriate planning and strategy to face this challenge.
Optimal robust parameter designs with qualitative and quantitative factors
Authors: Yang Po , Hu Jingjing
Published: March 2018

Robust parameter design is an effective methodology for reducing variance and improving the quality of a product and a process. Recent work has mainly concentrated on two‐level robust parameter designs. We consider general robust parameter designs with factors having two or more or mixed levels these levels being either qualitative or quantitative. We propose a methodology and develop a generalised minimum aberration optimality criterion for selecting optimal robust parameter designs. A catalogue of 18‐run optimal designs is constructed and tabulated.
Magnetic resonance imaging of vaginal support structure before and after Vecchietti procedure in women with Mayer–Rokitansky–Küster–Hauser syndrome
Authors: Huebner Markus , DeLancey John O.L. , Reisenauer Christl , Brucker Sara Y. , Preibsch Heike , Fleischer Sabrina , Schoeller Dorit , Stefanescu Diana , Rall Katharina
Published: March 2018

Introduction

It is unclear how pelvic floor supporting structures might be affected by the absence of the vagina. It was the aim of this prospective study to analyze the magnetic resonance imaging morphology of pelvic support prior and after a Vecchietti procedure in women suffering Mullerian agenesis (Mayer–Rokitansky–Küster–Hauser syndrome).

Material and methods

26 women with a diagnosis of Mayer–Rokitansky–Küster–Hauser syndrome associated vaginal agenesis were recruited prospectively prior to the laparoscopic creation of a neovagina according to the Vecchietti procedure. The primary outcome measure was the magnetic resonance imaging morphology of supporting structures. Secondary outcome measures were anatomical and functional vaginal length. Follow up was conducted six months after surgery.

Results

Twenty‐six women were analyzed. Mean age was 19.8 ± 4.4 years (±SD) and mean body mass index was 23.7 ± 4.3 kg/m2 (±SD). All were Caucasian. Supporting structures consistent with cardinal and uterosacral ligaments were visible on magnetic resonance imaging in all cases (100%). There were no levator ani defects. The vaginal apex could be visualized postoperatively in 12 women (46.2%) reaching up to Level I. The vagina was visible in both Level II and III with normal relations to the pelvic walls in all cases. On gynecological examination, vaginal length was 8.8 ± 2.1 cm (mean ± SD) anatomically and 10.2 ± 2.2 cm (mean ± SD) functionally.

Conclusions

The preoperative presence of pelvic support structures into which the vagina is lengthened by the surgery likely explains the uncommon occurrence of vaginal prolapse in women who had the Vecchietti procedure.
Treatment efficacy for idiopathic recurrent pregnancy loss – a systematic review and meta‐analyses
Authors: Rasmark Roepke Emma , Hellgren Margareta , Hjertberg Ragnhild , Blomqvist Lennart , Matthiesen Leif , Henic Emir , Lalitkumar Sujata , Strandell Annika
Published: March 2018

Introduction

Medical treatment of women with idiopathic recurrent pregnancy loss is controversial. The objective was to assess the effects of different treatments on live birth rates and complications in women with unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss.

Material and methods

We searched MEDLINE, Embase and the Cochrane Library, and identified 1415 publications. This systematic review included 21 randomized controlled trials regarding acetylsalicylic acid, low‐molecular‐weight heparin, progesterone, intravenous immunoglobulin or leukocyte immune therapy in women with three or more consecutive miscarriages of unknown cause. The study quality was assessed and data was extracted independently by at least two authors.

Results

No significant difference in live birth rate was found when acetylsalicylic acid was compared with low‐molecular‐weight heparin or with placebo. Meta‐analyses of low‐molecular‐weight heparin vs. control found no significant differences in live birth rate [risk ratio (RR) 1.47, 95% CI 0.83–2.61]. Treatment with progesterone starting in the luteal phase seemed effective in increasing live birth rate (RR 1.18, 95% CI 1.09–1.27) but not when started after conception. Intravenous immunoglobulin showed no effect on live birth rate compared with placebo (RR 1.07, 95% CI 0.91–1.26). Paternal immunization compared with autologous immunization showed a significant difference in outcome (RR 1.8, 95% CI 1.34–2.41), although the studies were small and at high risk of bias.

Conclusion

The literature does not allow advice on any specific treatment for idiopathic recurrent pregnancy loss, with the exception of progesterone starting from ovulation. We suggest that any treatment for recurrent pregnancy loss should be used within the context of a randomized controlled trial.