bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Individual vocal signatures in barn owl nestlings: does individual recognition have an adaptive role in sibling vocal competition?
Authors: Dreiss A. N. , Ruppli C. A. , Roulin A.
Published: November 2013

To compete over limited parental resources, young animals communicate with their parents and siblings by producing honest vocal signals of need. Components of begging calls that are sensitive to food deprivation may honestly signal need, whereas other components may be associated with individual‐specific attributes that do not change with time such as identity, sex, absolute age and hierarchy. In a sib–sib communication system where barn owl (Tyto alba) nestlings vocally negotiate priority access to food resources, we show that calls have individual signatures that are used by nestlings to recognize which siblings are motivated to compete, even if most vocalization features vary with hunger level. Nestlings were more identifiable when food‐deprived than food‐satiated, suggesting that vocal identity is emphasized when the benefit of winning a vocal contest is higher. In broods where siblings interact iteratively, we speculate that individual‐specific signature permits siblings to verify that the most vocal individual in the absence of parents is the one that indeed perceived the food brought by parents. Individual recognition may also allow nestlings to associate identity with individual‐specific characteristics such as position in the within‐brood dominance hierarchy. Calls indeed revealed age hierarchy and to a lower extent sex and absolute age. Using a cross‐fostering experimental design, we show that most acoustic features were related to the nest of origin (but not the nest of rearing), suggesting a genetic or an early developmental effect on the ontogeny of vocal signatures. To conclude, our study suggests that sibling competition has promoted the evolution of vocal behaviours that signal not only hunger level but also intrinsic individual characteristics such as identity, family, sex and age.
Testing search strategies for systematic reviews in the Medline literature database through PubMed
Authors: Volpato Enilze S. N. , Betini Marluci , El Dib Regina
Published: November 2013

Background

A high‐quality electronic search is essential in ensuring accuracy and completeness in retrieved records for the conducting of a systematic review.

Objective

We analysed the available sample of search strategies to identify the best method for searching in Medline through PubMed, considering the use or not of parenthesis, double quotation marks, truncation and use of a simple search or search history.

Methods

In our cross‐sectional study of search strategies, we selected and analysed the available searches performed during evidence‐based medicine classes and in systematic reviews conducted in the Botucatu Medical School, UNESP, Brazil.

Results

We analysed 120 search strategies. With regard to the use of phrase searches with parenthesis, there was no difference between the results with and without parenthesis and simple searches or search history tools in 100% of the sample analysed (P = 1.0). The number of results retrieved by the searches analysed was smaller using double quotations marks and using truncation compared with the standard strategy (P = 0.04 and P = 0.08, respectively).

Conclusions

There is no need to use phrase‐searching parenthesis to retrieve studies; however, we recommend the use of double quotation marks when an investigator attempts to retrieve articles in which a term appears to be exactly the same as what was proposed in the search form. Furthermore, we do not recommend the use of truncation in search strategies in the Medline via PubMed. Although the results of simple searches or search history tools were the same, we recommend using the latter.
Using Attributional Life Cycle Assessment to Estimate Climate‐Change Mitigation Benefits Misleads Policy Makers
Authors: Plevin Richard J. , Delucchi Mark A. , Creutzig Felix
Published: November 2013

Life cycle assessment (LCA) is generally described as a tool for environmental decision making. Results from attributional LCA (ALCA), the most commonly used LCA method, often are presented in a way that suggests that policy decisions based on these results will yield the quantitative benefits estimated by ALCA. For example, ALCAs of biofuels are routinely used to suggest that the implementation of one alternative (say, a biofuel) will cause an X% change in greenhouse gas emissions, compared with a baseline (typically gasoline). However, because of several simplifications inherent in ALCA, the method, in fact, is not predictive of real‐world impacts on climate change, and hence the usual quantitative interpretation of ALCA results is not valid. A conceptually superior approach, consequential LCA (CLCA), avoids many of the limitations of ALCA, but because it is meant to model actual changes in the real world, CLCA results are scenario dependent and uncertain. These limitations mean that even the best practical CLCAs cannot produce definitive quantitative estimates of actual environmental outcomes. Both forms of LCA, however, can yield valuable insights about potential environmental effects, and CLCA can support robust decision making. By openly recognizing the limitations and understanding the appropriate uses of LCA as discussed here, practitioners and researchers can help policy makers implement policies that are less likely to have perverse effects and more likely to lead to effective environmental policies, including climate mitigation strategies.
Small auxin upregulated RNA (SAUR) gene family in maize: Identification, evolution, and its phylogenetic comparison with Arabidopsis, rice, and sorghum
Authors: Chen Yuzhu , Hao Xi , Cao Jun
Published: November 2013

Small auxin‐up RNAs (SAURs) are the early auxin‐responsive genes represented by a large multigene family in plants. Here, we identified 79 SAUR gene family members from maize (Zea mays subsp. mays) by a reiterative database search and manual annotation. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that the SAUR proteins from Arabidopsis, rice, sorghum, and maize had divided into 16 groups. These genes were non‐randomly distributed across the maize chromosomes, and segmental duplication and tandem duplication contributed to the expansion of the maize SAUR gene family. Synteny analysis established orthology relationships and functional linkages between SAUR genes in maize and sorghum genomes. We also found that the auxin‐responsive elements were conserved in the upstream sequences of maize SAUR members. Selection analyses identified some significant site‐specific constraints acted on most SAUR paralogs. Expression profiles based on microarray data have provided insights into the possible functional divergence among members of the SAUR gene family. Quantitative real‐time PCR analysis indicated that some of the 10 randomly selected ZmSAUR genes could be induced at least in maize shoot or root tissue tested. The results reveal a comprehensive overview of the maize SAUR gene family and may pave the way for deciphering their function during plant development.
Impaired sexual function and prostate cancer: a mixed method investigation into the experiences of men and their partners
Authors: O'Shaughnessy Peter K , Ireland Colin , Pelentsov Lemuel , Thomas Laws A , Esterman Adrian J
Published: November 2013

Aims and objectives

To explore issues related to sexual function and relationships, for men and their wives or partners, following diagnosis and treatment for prostate cancer.

Background

A diagnosis of prostate cancer and subsequent treatment result in a significant number of men experiencing some impairment to their sexual function. There is scant research into the impact of changed sexual function on these men's masculinity, sexuality, intimate relationships and their needs regarding counselling and supportive care.

Design

Internet‐based survey.

Methods

Focus groups and couple interviews were used to improve validity for questionnaire items designed to provide insight into men's experiences of prostate cancer in areas such as sexual function and relationships. The questionnaire included both closed and open‐ended questions and had the option for the wife or partner to complete a section.

Results

Qualitative research revealed 17 specific categories within three key themes: sexual dysfunction, loss of libido and masculinity. The questionnaire found, unexpectedly, the majority of men said that they had sufficient emotional and psychological support. Wives/partners confirmed cancer had impacted on their partner's feelings of masculinity (71%), compared to 42% of men who felt that this was the case. Predictors of loss of libido, erectile dysfunction and ‘feeling less of a man’ were developed. Univariate predictors included hormone therapy, regrets about treatment choice, cancer having impacted on masculinity and distress during the last week.

Conclusions

Men are not able to clearly identify the challenges prostate cancer brings especially changes to their masculinity.

Relevance to clinical practice

The findings strongly suggest that for men with prostate cancer, nursing assessments of men's sexual health be augmented by information gained from their partners; further, these assessments should be augmented with a careful exploration of these men's psyche guided by the knowledge that masculinity influences perceptions of self (being a man) and help seeking.
Women's experiences of infertility – towards a relational model of care
Authors: Cunningham Nicola , Cunningham Tom
Published: November 2013

Aims and objectives

To consider the effectiveness of current models of patient‐centred infertility care.

Background

Patient centredness is defined as one of six key dimensions of quality of care. In the field of infertility, a new interaction model of patient‐centred infertility care is proposed. Despite positive moves, this model reveals shortcomings in knowledge about the lived experience of infertility and lacks the shift in attitudes and approach that effective patient‐centred care requires.

Design

The study has a qualitative research design. Nine women living with and through infertility participated in online life‐story interviews.

Methods

Data were analysed using a layered strategy influenced by the voice‐centred relational method, emphasising narrative content, form and function.

Results

Women reveal a complex experience. Three key themes were found: Approaching the clinic narratives are infused with personal expectations while deeply reflective of cultural expectations and social norms. Relatedness recognises women's experiences cannot be neatly separated into distinct domains. Liminality and infertility describes women's experiences lost in transition through and beyond infertility treatment.

Conclusions

The current model of patient‐centred infertility care requires further development. Women in this study found themselves lost in transition and irrespective of treatment failure or success. Conceptual development must embrace a relational understanding of patient's experience to ensure that patient‐centred infertility care is realistic and relevant to patients, clinical staff and the system as a whole.

Relevance to clinical practice

Psychosocial skills are recognised as core competences for fertility nurses. A relational conceptualisation of patient's experiences, living with and through infertility, provides further information for the development of staff and enhanced knowledge and practice skills.
Tertiary paediatric hospital health professionals’ attitudes to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender parents seeking health care for their children
Authors: Nicol Pam , Chapman Rose , Watkins Rochelle , Young Jeanine , Shields Linda
Published: November 2013

Aims and objectives

To ascertain health professionals’ knowledge, attitudes and beliefs towards lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender parents seeking health care for their children in a paediatric tertiary hospital setting which practises family‐centred care.

Background

Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender parents are often reluctant to disclose their sexual orientation to health professionals for fear of discrimination and compromised quality of care. Staff knowledge, attitudes and beliefs can influence disclosure by parents, but little is known about knowledge, attitudes and beliefs in paediatric tertiary hospital staff towards lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender parents accessing care for their children.

Design

Descriptive comparative study of health staff using a cross‐sectional survey.

Methods

A set of validated anonymous questionnaires was used to assess knowledge about homosexuality, attitudes towards lesbians and gay men, and gay affirmative practice. Three open‐ended questions were also used to assess beliefs about encouraging disclosure of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender parenting roles and how this may impact on care.

Results

Of the 646 staff surveyed, 212 (32·8%) responded. Knowledge and attitudes were significantly associated with professional group, gender, Caucasian race, political voting behaviour, presence of religious beliefs, the frequency of attendance at religious services, the frequency of praying, and having a friend who was openly lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender.

Conclusion

This study highlighted that staff working in a tertiary paediatric hospital setting, with family‐centred care models in place, held attitudes and beliefs that may impact on the experience of hospitalisation for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender parents, and the quality of care received by their children.

Relevance to clinical practice

To promote equitable care to all families, organisations should ensure that family‐centred care policies and guidelines are adopted and appropriately implemented. In addition to formal education, affirmative health service action and innovative methods may be required.
Sexual risk factors for partner age discordance in adolescent girls and their male partners
Authors: Morrison‐Beedy Dianne , Xia Yinglin , Passmore Denise
Published: November 2013

Aims and objectives

To investigate differences in sexual risk factors between adolescent girls reporting similar‐aged or older sex partners.

Background

Adolescent girls are at significant risk of heterosexual‐acquired HIV infection and other long‐term reproductive health issues. Sexual partner age discordance in teen girls has been correlated with STIs, lack of protection, multiple partners and earlier age of sexual transition.

Design

A descriptive study comparing girls currently involved with age‐discordant partners to those with similar‐aged partners. Two‐sample t‐test for continuous variables and chi‐squared test or Fisher's exact test for categorical variables were used to compare groups.

Methods

Baseline data from 738 sexually active, urban, adolescent girls aged 15–19 were analysed to determine which behaviours were more likely to occur in girls with older partners. Data were collected as part of a gender‐specific HIV‐prevention intervention in a randomised controlled trial (RCT) tailored to adolescent girls.

Results

Multiple reported sexual risk behaviours were found to significantly differ between the two groups at baseline. Overall, girls with older partners had more episodes of sexual instances (vaginal, anal and oral). Specific sexual risk behaviours were found to be statistically significant between the two groups. Girls with older partners started having sex at earlier ages, had more lifetime sexual partners, higher incidents of STIs and were reluctant to discuss using condoms with their partners. Girls with similar‐aged partners were less willing to engage in risky sexual behaviours.

Conclusions

Findings from this investigation support data from other studies. Relationships with older male partners place adolescent girls at increased risk of HIV/STIs and unintended pregnancy.

Relevance to clinical practice

Adolescent girls in age‐discordant relationships are at risk of immediate and long‐term sexual health morbidities. Identifying girls who are at increased risk by asking tailored questions will enable nurses to recommend appropriate diagnostics for this population and provide age‐specific counselling.
‘SI‐SRH’ – a new model to manage sexual health following a spinal cord injury: our experience
Authors: Hartshorn Carly , D'Castro Emma , Adams Jillian
Published: November 2013

Aims and objectives

To maximise involvement of the multidisciplinary team using a model of sexual health management for spinal cord‐injured persons.

Background

Regaining sexual function is a priority following spinal cord injury, with the majority of people remaining sexually active with a satisfying sex life. Nevertheless, rehabilitation programmes often focus on activities related to mobility and elimination, with sexual health relegated to a secondary under‐resourced position.

Design

Model creation and audit of current and desired status to identify required education.

Methods

A four‐tier model for sexual health management identified phases of management, increasing in complexity, from tier 1 to tier 4. The model was used to audit the current and desired status of the multidisciplinary team on a spinal injuries unit, identifying knowledge levels, barriers to involvement and education requirements.

Results

Fifty‐nine questionnaires were completed (85%) by nurses and allied health professionals. Knowledge deficits and discomfort with the topic were the primary reasons prohibiting involvement with sexual health rehabilitation. Two thirds were willing to be involved with sexual health activities, mainly at an introductory level rather than providing education or problem‐solving. However, following relevant education, the level of involvement changed: 90% (n = 53) desired involvement at more complex levels, and 10% (n = 6) were unwilling to be involved.

Conclusions

Developing the necessary skills and knowledge creates potential to increase the resources available to participate in sexual health rehabilitation following a spinal cord injury and ensure that it is a core rehabilitation activity.

Relevance to clinical practice

The progressive model portrayed discrete phases of sexual health management, which collectively portray the whole. Team members identified a level of involvement to compliment their skills and knowledge. The audit demonstrated that the primary barriers to involvement were not culture, language or attitude as hypothesised, but inadequate knowledge, addressable through education.
Assessment of the validity of a multigene analysis in the diagnostics of inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Bjerrum J. T. , Nyberg C. , Olsen J. , Nielsen O. H.
Published: November 2013

Objectives

The findings of a previous multigene study indicated that the expression of a panel of seven specific genes had strong differential power regarding inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) versus non‐IBD, as well as ulcerative colitis (UC) versus Crohn's disease (CD). This prospective confirmatory study based on an independent patient cohort from a national Danish IBD centre was conducted in an attempt to verify these earlier observations.

Design, setting and participants

A total of 119 patients were included in the study (CD, UC and controls). Three mucosal biopsies were retrieved from the left side of the colon of each patient. RNA was extracted, and RT‐PCR was performed to retain expression profiles from the seven selected genes. Expression data from the training set (18 CD, 20 UC and 20 controls) were used to build a classification model, using quadratic discriminant analysis, and data from the test set (20 CD, 21 UC and 20 controls) were used to test the validity of the model.

Results

The present investigation did not confirm the previous observation that a panel of seven specific genes is able to distinguish between patients with CD and UC, whereas the discriminative power for IBD versus control subjects was substantiated.

Conclusion

Our results fail to demonstrate that the previously identified seven‐gene classification model is able to discriminate between CD and UC but suggest that the gene panel merely discriminates between inflamed and noninflamed colonic tissue. Thus, a reliable and simple diagnostic tool is still warranted for optimal diagnosis and treatment of patients with IBD, especially the subgroup with unclassified disease.
Gender, Contraceptive Attitudes, and Condom Use in Adolescent Romantic Relationships: A Dyadic Approach
Authors: Vasilenko Sara A. , Kreager Derek A. , Lefkowitz Eva S.
Published: November 2013

Although sexual risk behavior occurs in a dyadic context, most studies of adolescent sexual behavior focus on individuals. This study uses couple data (N = 488 couples) from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health to examine how partners' contraceptive attitudes correlate over time and whether male or female partners' attitudes are better predictors of condom use. Net of their own prior attitudes, partners' prior attitudes predicted both male and female adolescents' Wave 2 attitudes. This association was stronger for female than for male adolescents, suggesting that female attitudes were influenced more by males' prior attitudes than vice versa. When entered together, only male adolescents' attitudes predicted dyadic condom use. Findings suggest that male partners may have greater influence on adolescent contraceptive decisions and that prevention programs should emphasize the relational context of sexual behavior.
Risk and associated factors of pressure ulcers in hospitalized children over 1 year of age
Authors: Schlüer Anna‐Barbara , Schols Jos M. G. A. , Halfens Ruud J. G.
Published: November 2013

Purpose

This study aimed to identify factors for the development of pressure ulcers (PU) in hospitalized patients between 1 and 18 years of age.

Design and Methods

A multicenter, descriptive, cross‐sectional study in 13 hospitals was conducted in Switzerland.

Results

The prevalence of PUs in this population of 204 children was 26.5%, with 83% category 1 PUs. A third of all PUs developed along external devices. Older children developed more PUs because of ineffective positioning and limited mobility.

Practice Implications

It is important to assess each child's activity, mobility, and the risk associated with the use of external devices.
The inhibition of hepatitis B virus by APOBEC cytidine deaminases
Authors: Janahi E. M. , McGarvey M. J.
Published: November 2013

APOBEC3 (A3) cytidine deaminases are a family of enzymes that have been shown to inhibit the replication of HIV‐1 and other retroviruses as part of the innate immune responses to virus infection. They can also hyperedit HBV DNA and inhibit HBV replication. Although A3 proteins are present at low levels in normal liver, A3 gene expression is highly stimulated by both interferon‐α and interferon‐γ. A3 deaminases are incorporated into nascent HBV capsids where they cleave amino groups from cytidine bases converting them to uracil in newly synthesized DNA following reverse transcription of pregenomic RNA. This modified HBV DNA is susceptible to degradation, or alternatively, numerous G‐to‐A nucleotide mutations are incorporated into positive‐strand viral DNA disrupting coding sequences. A3 proteins in which the cytidine deaminase activity has been lost can also inhibit HBV replication, suggesting that there may be more than one way in which inhibition can occur. There is also evidence that A3 proteins might play a role in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma during chronic HBV infection.
Change in β‐Catenin Localization Suggests Involvement of the Canonical Wnt Pathway in Boxer Dogs with Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Oxford E.M. , Danko C.G. , Fox P.R , Kornreich B.G. , Moïse N.S.
Published: November 2013

Background

Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) is an inherited myocardial disease with high prevalence in the Boxer dog population. It is characterized by replacement of the myocardium with fatty or fibro‐fatty tissue. Several mechanisms for the development of ARVC have been suggested, including dysfunction of the canonical Wnt pathway, which is linked to many cellular functions, including growth and differentiation of adipocytes.

Hypothesis

Wnt pathway dysfunction is involved in the development of ARVC in the Boxer as evidenced by mislocalization of β‐catenin, an integral Wnt pathway modulator, and striatin, a known Wnt pathway component.

Animals

Five dogs without ARVC and 15 Boxers with ARVC were identified by 24‐hour Holter monitoring and histopathologic examination of the heart.

Methods

Right ventricular samples were collected and examined using confocal microscopy, Western blots, and quantitative (q) PCR.

Results

Confocal microscopy indicated that β‐catenin localized at sites of cell‐to‐cell apposition, and striatin localized in a diffuse intracellular pattern in hearts without ARVC. In hearts affected with ARVC, both β‐catenin and striatin were colocalized with the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) marker calreticulin. Western blots indentified a 50% increase in the amount of β‐catenin in ARVC samples. No change in β catenin mRNA was detected using qPCR.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that trafficking of Wnt pathway proteins from the ER to their proper location within the cell is inhibited in Boxers with ARVC. These results suggest that disturbances in the Wnt pathway may play a role in the development of ARVC in the Boxer.
Relation of Vitamin D Status to Congestive Heart Failure and Cardiovascular Events in Dogs
Authors: Kraus M.S. , Rassnick K.M. , Wakshlag J.J. , Gelzer A.R.M. , Waxman A.S. , Struble A.M. , Refsal K.
Published: November 2013

Background

Vitamin D plays a pivotal role in cardiac function, and there is increasing evidence that vitamin D deficiency is associated with the development of congestive heart failure (CHF) in people.

Hypothesis

Serum vitamin D concentration is lower in dogs withCHFcompared with unaffected controls and serum vitamin D concentration is associated with clinical outcome in dogs withCHF.

Animals

Eighty‐two client‐owned dogs.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, we examined the association between circulating 25‐hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D], a measure of vitamin D status, andCHFin dogs. In the prospective cohort study, we examined whether 25(OH)D serum concentration was associated with clinical outcome in dogs withCHF.

Results

Mean 25(OH)D concentration (100 ± 44 nmol/L) in 31 dogs withCHFwas significantly lower than that of 51 unaffected dogs (123 ± 42 nmol/L;P = .023). The mean calculated vitamin D intake per kg of metabolic body weight in dogs withCHFwas no different from that of unaffected dogs (1.37 ± 0.90 μg/kg metabolic body weight versus 0.98 ± 0.59 μg/kg body weight, respectively,P = .097). There was a significant association of serum 25(OH)D concentration on time to clinical manifestation ofCHFor sudden death (P = .02).

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance

These findings suggest that low concentrations of 25(OH)D may be a risk factor forCHFin dogs. Low serum 25(OH)D concentration was associated with poor outcome in dogs withCHF. Strategies to improve vitamin D status in some dogs withCHFmay prove beneficial without causing toxicity.
Focal Intestinal Lipogranulomatous Lymphangitis in 6 Dogs (2008–2011)
Authors: Watson V.E. , Hobday M.M. , Durham A.C.
Published: November 2013

Background

Lipogranulomatous lymphangitis is inflammation of the intestinal lymphatic vessels and surrounding tissues caused by chronic leakage of lipid‐laden chyle. Grossly, lipogranulomas are typically disseminated small masses on the serosa and surrounding lymphatic vessels and consist of epithelioid macrophages, multinucleated giant cells, and cholesterol. Lipogranulomatous lymphangitis is occasionally seen in patients with lymphangiectasia and protein‐losing enteropathy (PLE).

Objectives

To characterize the historical features, clinical signs, treatment, histopathology, and outcome of dogs with focal lipogranulomatous lymphangitis.

Animals

Six dogs with ultrasonographic evidence of focal, regional small intestinal masses, often with involvement of the adjacent mesentery, and a diagnosis of focal lipogranulomatous lymphangitis based on histopathology of biopsied masses.

Results

The median age of dogs was 6.9 years (range 3–10 years). All dogs had total protein, globulin, and albumin concentrations within the reference range at initial presentation and had intestinal masses identified on abdominal ultrasound examination. Histopathologic evaluation of lesions identified severe mural and mesenteric lipogranulomatous lymphangitis. Lymphangiectasia was noted in 5 cases and only in sections within the mass‐like lesion; tissue without lipogranulomas had minimal lymphangiectasia, suggesting a localized phenomenon. Postoperative outcomes ranged from remission of clinical signs with no subsequent treatment for 10–12 months in 2 dogs, postoperative management with medical and nutritional management in 3 dogs, and no outcome for 1 case.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

This case series describes a unique mass‐like manifestation of intestinal lipogranulomatous lymphangitis and should be considered as a possible differential diagnosis in dogs with an intestinal mass.
The detectability half‐life in arthropod predator–prey research: what it is, why we need it, how to measure it, and how to use it
Authors: Greenstone Matthew H. , Payton Mark E. , Weber Donald C. , Simmons Alvin M.
Published: November 2013

Molecular gut‐content analysis enables detection of arthropod predation with minimal disruption of ecosystem processes. Most assays produce only qualitative results, with each predator testing either positive or negative for target prey remains. Nevertheless, they have yielded important insights into community processes. For example, they have confirmed the long‐hypothesized role of generalist predators in retarding early‐season build‐up of pest populations prior to the arrival of more specialized predators and parasitoids and documented the ubiquity of secondary and intraguild predation. However, raw qualitative gut‐content data cannot be used to assess the relative impact of different predator taxa on prey population dynamics: they must first be weighted by the relative detectability periods for molecular prey remains for each predator–prey combination. If this is not carried out, interpretations of predator impact will be biased towards those with the longest detectabilities. We review the challenges in determining detectability half‐lives, including unstated assumptions that have often been ignored in the performance of feeding trials. We also show how detectability half‐lives can be used to properly weight assay data to rank predators by their importance in prey population suppression, and how sets of half‐lives can be used to test hypotheses concerning predator ecology and physiology. We use data from 32 publications, comprising 97 half‐lives, to generate and test hypotheses on taxonomic differences in detectability half‐lives and discuss the possible role of the detectability half‐life in interpreting qPCR and next‐generation sequencing data.
Biological and molecular events associated with simultaneous transmission of plant viruses by invertebrate and fungal vectors
Authors: Syller Jerzy
Published: November 2013

Viruses are likely to be the most dangerous parasites of living organisms because of their widespread occurrence, possible deleterious effects on their hosts and high rates of evolution. Virus host‐to‐host transmission is a critical step in the virus life cycle, because it enables survival in a given environment and efficient dissemination. As hosts of plant viruses are not mobile, these pathogens have adopted diverse transmission strategies involving various vector organisms, mainly arthropods, nematodes, fungi and protists. In nature, plants are often infected with more than one virus at a time, thereby creating potential sources for vectors to acquire and transmit simultaneously two or more viruses. Simultaneous transmission can result in multiple infections of new host plants, which become subsequent potential sources of the viruses, thus enhancing the spread of the diseases caused by these pathogens. Moreover, it can contribute to the maintenance of viral genetic diversity in the host communities. However, despite its possible significance, the problem of the simultaneous transmission of plant viruses by vectors has not been investigated in detail. In this review, the current knowledge on multiple viral transmissions by aphids, whiteflies, leafhoppers, planthoppers, nematodes and fungi is outlined.
Larval salinity tolerance of two members of the Anopheles funestus group
Authors: KOEKEMOER L. L. , WANIWA K. , BROOKE B. D. , NKOSI G. , MABUZA A. , COETZEE M.
Published: November 2013

The Anopheles funestus group (Diptera: Culicidae) is one of the main species groups involved in malaria transmission in the Afrotropical regions. Basic research into this group has been limited because its members are eurygamic (they tend not to mate in confined spaces), which makes laboratory colonization difficult. Currently, only a few An. funestus Giles colonies are available and no colonies of other members of the group have been established. As information on the larval biology of members of the An. funestus group is limited, the present study aims to determine the effects of different salt concentrations on survival rates of the aquatic stages of two members of the An. funestus group, Anopheles funestus and Anopheles rivulorum Leeson. There were statistically significant negative trends in hatch rate and larval survival rate in An. funestus with increasing salt concentrations, with no larvae surviving to pupae at concentrations that included > 15% seawater. Anopheles rivulorum, by contrast, showed no significant trends in hatch rate or larval survival with increasing salt concentrations. This is the first report on salinity tolerance in An. rivulorum. A basic understanding of these variations in salinity tolerance provides vital information on the biology, ecology and colony rearing of members of the An. funestus group.
The nutritional value of potatoes and potato products in theUKdiet
Authors: Gibson S. , Kurilich A. C.
Published: November 2013

Total potato consumption has been declining slowly in theUKat a rate of about 1–2% per year, in tandem with an increase in consumption of other starchy staples such as pasta and rice. Consumers and even health professionals often have a negative perception of potatoes and of chips in particular. We have evaluated the nutritional contribution of potatoes and potato products to the British diet by a secondary analysis of four‐day dietary records from the National Diet and Nutrition Survey 2008–2011, and distinguished between consumption of fried chips and oven chips. We also calculated portion sizes of six different types of potato dishes [oven chips, fried chips, boiled potatoes, mashed potatoes, roast potatoes and jacket (baked) potatoes].

Over 92% of respondents consumed potatoes during the four‐day survey, 27% consumed oven chips and 41% consumed fried chips. Potatoes (including chips) contributed 7% of total energy, but greater proportions of potassium and vitaminB6(15%), vitaminC(14%), fibre (13%), folate (10%) and magnesium (9%). On the other hand, they contributed only 4% of saturated fatty acids.Per capitaconsumption of potatoes averaged 85 g/day, of which, fried chips contributed 20 g/day and oven chips 10 g/day. For fried chips, mean portion size per occasion was 149 g among adults, 138 g among teenagers and 94 g among 4‐ to 10‐year‐olds, while portion sizes for oven chips were slightly smaller.

Potatoes can increase the nutrient density of the diet by providing a relatively high micronutrient contribution, compared with energy content, while delivering only modest amounts of saturated fatty acid and sodium. Reformulation to removetransfatty acids and reduce saturated fatty acid and salt has improved the nutritional profile of some potato products. Still, there may be scope in catering establishments to offer smaller portions, thicker chips and more oven‐baked potato products. Nutritionally, potatoes and potato products should be seen as a white vegetable, whose consumption should be encouraged alongside other, coloured, vegetables.
Placental HIV transmission and vitamin D: Nutritional and immunological implications
Authors: Fitchett J. R.
Published: November 2013

Vitamin D is a well‐known immunomodulator. The relationship between vitamin D status and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection has attracted attention in recent literature. Evidence suggests there may be increased prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in HIV‐infected children compared with HIV sero‐negative counterparts. One study has linked increased mother‐to‐child transmission of HIV, child mortality and adverse perinatal outcomes to vitamin D deficiency. This article provides a brief introduction into the emerging information surrounding the role of vitamin D and the placenta on mother‐to‐child transmission of HIV.
The 2013 FAO report on dietary protein quality evaluation in human nutrition: Recommendations and implications
Authors: Leser S.
Published: November 2013

In January 2013, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations released a new report on dietary protein quality, the result from an Expert Consultation that followed the International Symposium on Dietary Protein for Human Health, held in New Zealand during March 2011. The report, ‘Dietary protein quality evaluation in human nutrition’, is part of the call from the United Nations to promote sustainable diets and health, and was motivated mainly by advances in methods available to measure the quality of nutritional proteins with more accuracy. The main recommendation from the report concerns a new, advanced method of assessing nutritional protein quality. The FAO report recommends that the new method, known as Digestible Indispensable Amino Acid Score (DIAAS), replaces Protein Digestibility Corrected Amino Acid Score as the preferred method to describe protein quality and that it is adopted in Codex food labelling and claims guidelines. In addition, the report recommends that future research determines protein and amino acid needs that may be above the minimum requirements in certain circumstances. This article provides a summary of the report's findings, discusses its recommendations and implications, and outlines the next steps before the new protein quality method DIAAS can be fully adopted.
Performance Food: Promoting foods with a functional benefit in sports performance
Authors: Reid K.
Published: November 2013

The food choices and eating habits of athletes and sportspeople are influenced by their lifestyle, the practical considerations of their sports and the physiological demands of training and competition programmes. There is a growing interest in foods with a functional benefit in sports performance and in products and foods which can enhance recovery post‐exercise and therefore support a faster return to training. This paper provides an overview of the nutritional functions of foods and fluids of current scientific interest to athletes and sportspeople. Practical dietary strategies are provided to illustrate how emerging research can be translated into food ideas, which can enhance the functional benefits to their maximum potential within existing scientific recommendations to minimise reliance on unnecessary dietary supplements.
Ubiquitin‐negative, eosinophilic neuronal cytoplasmic inclusions associated with stress granules and autophagy: An immunohistochemical investigation of two cases
Authors: Mori Fumiaki , Watanabe Yuka , Miki Yasuo , Tanji Kunikazu , Odagiri Saori , Eto Komyo , Wakabayashi Koichi
Published: November 2013

Identification of the proteinaceous components of the pathological inclusions is an important step in understanding the associated disease mechanisms. We immunohistochemically examined two previously reported cases with eosinophilic neuronal cytoplasmic inclusions (NCIs) (case 1, Mori et al. Neuropathology 2010; 30: 648–53; case 2, Kojima et al. Acta Pathol Jpn 1990; 40: 785–91) using 67 antibodies against proteins related to cytoskeletal constituents, ubiquitin‐proteasome system, autophagy‐lysosome pathway and stress granule formation. Regional distribution pattern of eosinophilic NCIs in case 1 was substantially different from that in case 2. However, NCIs in both cases were immunonegative for ubiquitin and p62 and were immunopositive for stress granule markers as well as autophagy‐related proteins, including valosin‐containing protein. Considering that eukaryotic stress granules are cleared by autophagy and valosin‐containing protein function, our findings suggest that eosinophilic NCIs in the present two cases may represent the process of autophagic clearance of stress granules.
Globoid cell leukodystrophy (Krabbe's disease) in a Japanese domestic cat
Authors: Ogawa Mizue , Uchida Kazuyuki , Isobe Kyoko , Saito Miyoko , Harada Tomoyuki , Chambers James K. , Nakayama Hiroyuki
Published: November 2013

A male Japanese domestic cat developed progressive limb paralysis from 4 months of age. The cat showed visual disorder, trismus and cognitive impairment and died at 9 months of age. At necropsy, significant discoloration of the white matter was observed throughout the brain and spinal cord. Histologically, severe myelin loss and gliosis were observed, especially in the internal capsule and cerebellum. In the lesions, severe infiltration of macrophages with broad cytoplasm filled with PAS‐positive and non‐metachromatic granules (globoid cells) was evident. On the basis of these findings, the case was diagnosed as feline globoid cell leukodystrophy (Krabbe's disease). Immunohistochemical observation indicated the involvement of oxidative stress and small HSP in the disease.
Intracranial teratoma in children: The role of chromosome 21 trisomy
Authors: Ferraz Sabrine Teixeira , Valera Elvis Terci , Brassesco María Sol , de Oliveira Ricardo Santos , dos Santos Antonio Carlos , Saggioro Fabiano Pinto , Neder Luciano , Scrideli Carlos Alberto , Tone Luiz Gonzaga
Published: November 2013

Teratomas are very rare intracranial tumors and cytogenetic information on this group remains rare. We report a case of a mature teratoma with abnormal +21 trisomy in tumor karyotype ocurring in a non‐Down syndrome (DS) infant. Additionally, the evidence for the contribution of chromosome 21 trisomy in this neoplasia are briefly reviewed. The 6‐month‐old male baby presented with a posterior fossa tumor. Histological evaluation of tumor specimen showed a mature teratoma composed of fully differentiated ectodermal, mesodermal and endodermal components. Although somatic karyotyping of the index case was normal, composite tumor karyotype depicted 47, XY, +21[6]/46,XY[6]. Besides previous reports of children with DS and intracranial teratomas, this is the first report to describe the occurrence of an isolated chromosome 21 trisomy within the tumor of a non‐DS child. The participation of chromosome 21 in this rare pediatric tumor, either somatic or restricted to tumor specimen, may deserve special interest and further investigation.
Integrating nutrition and early child‐development interventions among infants and preschoolers in rural India
Authors: Fernandez‐Rao Sylvia , Hurley Kristen M. , Nair Krishnapillai Madhavan , Balakrishna Nagalla , Radhakrishna Kankipati V. , Ravinder Punjal , Tilton Nicholas , Harding Kimberly B. , Reinhart Greg A. , Black Maureen M.
Published: November 2013

This article describes the development, design, and implementation of an integrated randomized double‐masked placebo‐controlled trial (Project Grow Smart) that examines how home/preschool fortification with multiple micronutrient powder (MNP) combined with an early child‐development intervention affects child development, growth, and micronutrient status among infants and preschoolers in rural India. The 1‐year trial has an infant phase (enrollment age: 6–12 months) and a preschool phase (enrollment age: 36–48 months). Infants are individually randomized into one of four groups: placebo, placebo plus early learning, MNP alone, and MNP plus early learning (integrated intervention), conducted through home visits. The preschool phase is a cluster‐randomized trial conducted in Anganwadi centers (AWCs), government‐run preschools sponsored by the Integrated Child Development System of India. AWCs are randomized into MNP or placebo, with the MNP or placebo mixed into the children's food. The evaluation examines whether the effects of the MNP intervention vary by the quality of the early learning opportunities and communication within the AWCs. Study outcomes include child development, growth, and micronutrient status. Lessons learned during the development, design, and implementation of the integrated trial can be used to guide large‐scale policy and programs designed to promote the developmental, educational, and economic potential of children in developing countries.
An Academic‐Community Partnership to Address the Flu Vaccination Rates of the Homeless
Authors: Metcalfe Sharon Elizabeth , Sexton Elizabeth Hilliard
Published: November 2013

Objective

The objective of this pilot research study was to explore the beliefs and barriers to flu vaccination from a sample homeless population in a small metropolitan community.

Design and Sample

In a collaborative academic‐community partnership of a university undergraduate nursing education program, a local health department, and nonprofit agencies, a social marketing education program was developed by nursing students which included surveying the homeless for perceptions regarding flu vaccinations. There were a total of 87 homeless subjects that were surveyed.

Measures

The measurements were obtained from various questions regarding flu vaccinations on a Qualtrics survey examining the barriers, beliefs, and practices of the homeless population. The focus addressed health disparities and barriers with nursing students serving as the catalyst to reach the homeless in an educational service‐learning project.

Results

This project demonstrated a positive impact in meeting health care needs of homeless persons as the rate of flu vaccination was doubled from the previous year at one community day shelter.

Conclusions

Nursing students developed their ability to impact a hard‐to‐reach population with positive changes in their attitudes by increased understanding of the health needs of the homeless.
Photoinhibition of Cyanobacteria and its Application in Cultural Heritage Conservation
Authors: Hsieh Paul , Pedersen Jens Z. , Bruno Laura
Published: November 2013

Light has bilateral effects on phototrophic organisms. As cyanobacteria in Roman hypogea are long acclimatized to dim environment, moderate intensity of illumination can be used to alleviate biodeterioration problems on the stone substrata. Moderate intensity of light inactivates cyanobacteria by causing photoinhibition, photobleaching and photodamage to the cells. The effectiveness of light depends not only on its intensity but also on the composition and pigmentation of the component cyanobacteria in the biofilms. Red light is the most effective for the species rich in phycocyanin and allophycocyanin, such as Leptolyngbya sp. and Scytonema julianum, whereas green light is effective to inhibit the species rich in phycoerythrin, like Oculatella subterranea. White light is effective to control the grayish and the black cyanobacteria, such as Symphyonemopsis sp. and Eucapsis sp. abundant in all of these pigments. Blue light is the least effective. 150 μmol photons m−2 s−1 of blue light cannot cause biofilm damage while the same intensity of red, green or white irradiation for 14 days can severely damage the cyanobacterial cells in the biofilms due to ROS formation. Electron spin resonance spectroscopy detected the formation of radicals in different cyanobacterial cellular extracts exposed to 80 μmol photons m−2 s−1 of light.