bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional status of patients after stroke
Authors: Tomasevic-Todorovic Snezana , Kopcanski Sanja , Mikov Aleksandra , Boskovic Ksenija , Popovic-Petrovic Svetlana , Savic Mirjana
Published: May 2015

Introduction. Patients who have suffered from stroke become disabled and have
specific problems due to the physical and mental disability that requires the
implementation of rehabilitation and the creation of conditions for
independent living, economic and social reintegration. The aim of this study
was to evaluate the functional recovery of patients after ischemic stroke,
during the subacute phase of medical rehabilitation. Material and Methods.
The study was organized as a prospective study, which included 74 patients
(44 men, 30 women) treated after stroke at the Department of Medical
Rehabilitation, Clinical Center of Vojvodina during 2013. Motor recovery was
assessed by Signe-Brunnstrom scale, and Barthel Index, Rivermead Mobility
Index, and modified Rankin scale were applied to assess the function.
Results. The average age of patients after stroke was 66.59 ? 9.607 years.
The mean hospital stay was 34.35 days. The majority of patients in this study
had righthand hemiparesis 47 (63.5%), and 27 (36.5%) had left-hand
hemiparesis. By analyzing the average value of motor recovery of the affected
limb by S. Brunnstrom?s scale during rehabilitation at the Department of
Medical Rehabilitation, it was found that the value at the end of subacute
rehabilitation phase was significantly increased (p<0.01). The results of
this testing showed a statistically significant improvement (p<0.01) in the
average values of Barthel Index, Rivermead Mobility Index and modified Rankin
scale during the rehabilitation treatment of stroke patients. Conclusion. The
obtained results showed that the rehabilitation treatment resulted in better
functional and motor recovery in the patients who had had ischemic stroke.
Development of plastic surgery
Authors: Pecanac Marija
Published: May 2015

Introduction. Plastic surgery is a medical specialty dealing with corrections
of defects, improvements in appearance and restoration of lost function.
Ancient Times. The first recorded account of reconstructive plastic surgery
was found in ancient Indian Sanskrit texts, which described reconstructive
surgeries of the nose and ears. In ancient Greece and Rome, many medicine men
performed simple plastic cosmetic surgeries to repair damaged parts of the
body caused by war mutilation, punishment or humiliation. In the Middle Ages,
the development of all medical braches, including plastic surgery was
hindered. New age. The interest in surgical reconstruction of mutilated body
parts was renewed in the XVIII century by a great number of enthusiastic and
charismatic surgeons, who mastered surgical disciplines and became true
artists that created new forms. Modern Era. In the XX century, plastic
surgery developed as a modern branch in medicine including many types of
reconstructive surgery, hand, head and neck surgery, microsurgery and
replantation, treatment of burns and their sequelae, and esthetic surgery.
Contemporary and future plastic surgery will continue to evolve and improve
with regenerative medicine and tissue engineering resulting in a lot of
benefits to be gained by patients in reconstruction after body trauma,
oncology amputation, and for congenital disfigurement and dysfunction.
Are Obesity-Related Insulin Resistance and Type 2 Diabetes Autoimmune Diseases?
Authors: Tsai Sue , Clemente-Casares Xavier , Revelo Xavier S. , Winer Shawn , Winer Daniel A.
Published: May 2015

Obesity and associated insulin resistance predispose individuals to develop chronic metabolic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Although these disorders affect a significant proportion of the global population, the underlying mechanisms of disease remain poorly understood. The discovery of elevated tumor necrosis factor-α in adipose tissue as an inducer of obesity-associated insulin resistance marked a new era of understanding that a subclinical inflammatory process underlies the insulin resistance and metabolic dysfunction that precedes type 2 diabetes. Advances in the field identified components of both the innate and adaptive immune response as key players in regulating such inflammatory processes. As antigen specificity is a hallmark of an adaptive immune response, its role in modulating the chronic inflammation that accompanies obesity and type 2 diabetes begs the question of whether insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes can have autoimmune components. In this Perspective, we summarize current data that pertain to the activation and perpetuation of adaptive immune responses during obesity and discuss key missing links and potential mechanisms for obesity-related insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes to be considered as potential autoimmune diseases.
Current State of Type 1 Diabetes Treatment in the U.S.: Updated Data From the T1D Exchange Clinic Registry
Authors: Miller Kellee M. , Foster Nicole C. , Beck Roy W. , Bergenstal Richard M. , DuBose Stephanie N. , DiMeglio Linda A. , Maahs David M. , Tamborlane William V.
Published: May 2015

To examine the overall state of metabolic control and current use of advanced diabetes technologies in the U.S., we report recent data collected on individuals with type 1 diabetes participating in the T1D Exchange clinic registry. Data from 16,061 participants updated between 1 September 2013 and 1 December 2014 were compared with registry enrollment data collected from 1 September 2010 to 1 August 2012. Mean hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) was assessed by year of age from <4 to >75 years. The overall average HbA1c was 8.2% (66 mmol/mol) at enrollment and 8.4% (68 mmol/mol) at the most recent update. During childhood, mean HbA1c decreased from 8.3% (67 mmol/mol) in 2–4-year-olds to 8.1% (65 mmol/mol) at 7 years of age, followed by an increase to 9.2% (77 mmol/mol) in 19-year-olds. Subsequently, mean HbA1c values decline gradually until ∼30 years of age, plateauing at 7.5–7.8% (58–62 mmol/mol) beyond age 30 until a modest drop in HbA1c below 7.5% (58 mmol/mol) in those 65 years of age. Severe hypoglycemia (SH) and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) remain all too common complications of treatment, especially in older (SH) and younger patients (DKA). Insulin pump use increased slightly from enrollment (58–62%), and use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) did not change (7%). Although the T1D Exchange registry findings are not population based and could be biased, it is clear that there remains considerable room for improving outcomes of treatment of type 1 diabetes across all age-groups. Barriers to more effective use of current treatments need to be addressed and new therapies are needed to achieve optimal metabolic control in people with type 1 diabetes.
Impact of Fat, Protein, and Glycemic Index on Postprandial Glucose Control in Type 1 Diabetes: Implications for Intensive Diabetes Management in the Continuous Glucose Monitoring Era
Authors: Bell Kirstine J. , Smart Carmel E. , Steil Garry M. , Brand-Miller Jennie C. , King Bruce , Wolpert Howard A.
Published: May 2015

BACKGROUND

Continuous glucose monitoring highlights the complexity of postprandial glucose patterns present in type 1 diabetes and points to the limitations of current approaches to mealtime insulin dosing based primarily on carbohydrate counting.

METHODS

A systematic review of all relevant biomedical databases, including MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, was conducted to identify research on the effects of dietary fat, protein, and glycemic index (GI) on acute postprandial glucose control in type 1 diabetes and prandial insulin dosing strategies for these dietary factors.

RESULTS

All studies examining the effect of fat (n = 7), protein (n = 7), and GI (n = 7) indicated that these dietary factors modify postprandial glycemia. Late postprandial hyperglycemia was the predominant effect of dietary fat; however, in some studies, glucose concentrations were reduced in the first 2–3 h, possibly due to delayed gastric emptying. Ten studies examining insulin bolus dose and delivery patterns required for high-fat and/or high-protein meals were identified. Because of methodological differences and limitations in experimental design, study findings were inconsistent regarding optimal bolus delivery pattern; however, the studies indicated that high-fat/protein meals require more insulin than lower-fat/protein meals with identical carbohydrate content.

CONCLUSIONS

These studies have important implications for clinical practice and patient education and point to the need for research focused on the development of new insulin dosing algorithms based on meal composition rather than on carbohydrate content alone.
Predicting Type 1 Diabetes Using Biomarkers
Authors: Bonifacio Ezio
Published: May 2015

Clinical type 1 diabetes is preceded by an asymptomatic phase that can be identified by serum islet autoantibodies. This perspective proposes that there is now sufficient evidence to allow a broader use of islet autoantibodies as biomarkers to diagnose type 1 diabetes that is already at an asymptomatic stage, so that attempts to prevent clinical hyperglycemia become a feature of disease management. Prediction would first, therefore, shift toward the use of genetic and other biomarkers to determine the likelihood that islet autoimmunity will develop in an infant, and second, toward metabolic assessment to stage and biomarkers to determine the rate of progression to hyperglycemia in children in whom islet autoimmunity is diagnosed. A case is presented for future comprehensive risk assessment that commences at birth and includes attempts to predict, stage, and prevent initiation and progression of the disease process at multiple stages. The biomarkers required achieving this level of sophistication and dissemination are discussed.
Pathway to Artificial Pancreas Systems Revisited: Moving Downstream
Authors: Kowalski Aaron
Published: May 2015

Artificial pancreas (AP) systems, a long-sought quest to replicate mechanically islet physiology that is lost in diabetes, are reaching the clinic, and the potential of automating insulin delivery is about to be realized. Significant progress has been made, and the safety and feasibility of AP systems have been demonstrated in the clinical research center and more recently in outpatient “real-world” environments. An iterative road map to AP system development has guided AP research since 2009, but progress in the field indicates that it needs updating. While it is now clear that AP systems are technically feasible, it remains much less certain that they will be widely adopted by clinicians and patients. Ultimately, the true success of AP systems will be defined by successful integration into the diabetes health care system and by the ultimate metric: improved diabetes outcomes.
Vegetation change in variable rangeland environments: the relative contribution of drought and soil type in arid rangelands
Authors: Gamoun Mouldi
Published: May 2015

The response of a plant community to protection from grazing, as a function of year and soil type, was studied in the arid rangelands of southern Tunisia between 2007 and 2009. The vegetation of rangelands is often altered under grazing pressure, but unfortunately, removing the grazing pressure often does not reverse the changes in the way the succession model predicts. Rainfall variability is a key driver of ecosystem structure and function in arid rangelands, and this arid area of North Africa is characterized by low and erratic rainfall and is prone to drought conditions which normally occur every two to three years.

Steppes are likely to exhibit strong and rapid structural and functional responses to these altered rainfall patterns. Although drought affects vegetation cover more in loamy soil than in all other soils, it affects diversity on all soils; particularly limestone and loam soils
Identification of season-dependent relationships between spectral vegetation indices and aboveground phytomass in alpine grassland by using field spectroscopy
Authors: Halabuk Andrej , Gerhatova Katarina , Kohut Frantisek , Ponecova Zuzana , Mojses Matej
Published: May 2015

Halabuk A., Gerhatova K., Kohut F., Ponecova Z., Mojses M.: Identification of season-dependent relationships between spectral vegetation indices and aboveground phytomass in alpine grassland by using field spectroscopy. Ekologia (Bratislava), Vol. 32, No. 2, p. 186-196, 2013.

Spectral characteristics of alpine grasslands across the vegetation season (from May to September) are presented. The results are based on three year field spectroscopy monitoring of acid, nutrient poor grasslands at Kraľova hoľa research site, Low Tatras, Slovakia. Relationships between commonly used spectral vegetation indices (VIs) and field-based estimation of aboveground green phytomass (AG B) were analysed. Finally, season-dependent regression models were created in order to allow spatially extensive non-destructive monitoring of AG B. Spatial-temporal dynamics of background and standing litter markedly affect seasonal variations of relationships between VIs and AG B and predictability of the regression models. Because of a high proportion of litter during the whole season, this was a plant water-sensitive normalized difference water index (NDWI), which dominates as the predictive variable in the regression models across the whole season; except June, where chlorophyll absorption sensitive in normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) performed the best (R2 = 0.57; rel. RMSE = 34%). However, the accuracy of the models was quite low (May: R2 = 0.45; rel. RMSE = 49%; July: R2 = 0.47; rel. RMSE = 26%; August: R2 = 0.13; rel. RMSE = 31%; September: R2 = 0.53; rel. RMSE = 40%).
Methods of Historical Landscape Structures Identification and Implementation into Landscape Studies
Authors: Slámová Martina , Jančura Peter , Daniš Dušan
Published: May 2015

Slamova M., Jančura P., Daniš D.: Methods of historical landscape structures identification and implementation into landscape studies. Ekologia (Bratislava), Vol. 32, No. 3, p. , 267-276, 2013. Valuable historical rural landscapes are found in the sub-mountainous and mountainous regions of the Carpathian Mountains in Slovakia. Authors contributed to the research about historical landscape structures (HLS) by several methods. Method of ‘identification and assessment of characteristic landscape’ was developed in order to provide maintenance to about HLS and improve application of responsibilities resulting from the European Landscape Convention (Florence, 2000) into practice of landscape planning. We bring a new perspective on landscape’s value identification in the field of landscape ecology. The main aim of the paper is identification of HLS as components of land cover structures in the cadastral area of Budina (agrarian terraces) and as micro-relief forms in Nižna Boca (mines). Studied areas represent two different rural landscape types which contain different values related to HLS and they are not especially protected by laws. We evaluate attributes of relief, visual-optometric parameters of landscape, landscape types, land cover structures and types of HLS. Maintenance about HLS in landscape is important for the preservation of unique types of cultural landscapes. Finally, we compare realisations of the visions, suggested in previous landscape studies, which concentrated on development of tourism in the studied areas.
The importance of rural parks for the occurrence of the Rook Corvus frugilegus in the eastern part of the Lublin region (E Poland) – ecological and social factors
Authors: Kitowski Ignacy
Published: May 2015

Kitowski I.: The importance of rural parks for the occurrence of the Rook Corvus frugilegus in the eastern part of the Lublin region (E Poland) - ecological and social factors. Ekologia (Bratislava), Vol. 32, No. 3, p. 283-298, 2013. This study deals with the population size and the distribution of breeding colonies of the rook in rural parks in the eastern part of the Lublin region (Eastern Poland). Large parks with a large number of tree species were appropriate sites for larger rookeries. Small, degraded parks, with few species of trees, were used by smaller rookeries, which showed tendencies to disappear more quickly. Small colonies were irrevocably abandoned if disturbed by man, whereas large ones had a very high reoccupation potential, even after a few years. Unfortunately, ownership changes concerning rural parks in Eastern Poland may endanger the rookeries located there.
Urban Ecosystem services on the local level: Urban green spaces as providers
Authors: Breuste Jürgen , Schnellinger Johanna , Qureshi Salman , Faggi Anna
Published: May 2015

Breuste J., Schnellinger J., Qureshi S., Faggi A.: Urban ecosystem services on the local level: Urban green spaces as providers. Ekologia (Bratislava), Vol. 32, No. 3, p. 209-304, 2013. Ecosystem services are provided at different spatial and service/functional scales. The local level is the basic unit for ecosystem services, especially when it comes to the human dimension of urban landscapes. These services are provided by green elements (patches) or basic complex ecosystems (green areas) which differ from their neighbourhoods through their structures and functions. This study reviews the generally available knowledge on urban green functions and services at the site level and explains them by using own studies in five different cities in three different continents related to distinct ecosystem services. This allows the development of a methodology to evaluate and compare ecosystem services at the site level. The methodology is based at two levels, patch and green space, and includes the relationship with the surrounding green and built-up space. Different urban green space types are characterized by their internal structures of vegetation, size, shape and location in relation to at least a semi-quantitative scaling of their urban ecosystem services. The evaluated urban green spaces are public urban green spaces. The urban ecosystem services assessed include climate regulation, biodiversity, nature experience, recreation and health. The actual urban challenges, such as land use change, adaptation to climate change, demographic change and urban cultural diversity, demand a systematic and very concrete monitoring of urban ecosystem services at the site level.
Transfer of landscape ecological knowledge from theory to practice as a multistage process (Selected theoretical and meta-scientific aspects)
Authors: Žigrai Florin
Published: May 2015

Žigrai F.: Transfer of landscape ecological knowledge from theory to practice as a multistage process. (Selected theoretical and meta-scientific aspects). Ekologia (Bratislava), Vol. 32, No. 3, p. 305-319, 2013. Successful and efficient transfer of landscape ecological knowledge from theory to practice is a complex scientific and social topic, the solution of which requires elaboration of suitable theoretical, meta-scientific and empirical-applied research approaches. In this context, the burning question is, to what extent is landscape ecology as a science with its theoretical basis, methodological infrastructure and quantitative-qualitative nature of empirical knowledge prepared to solve this fundamental problem effectively. The transfer of landscape ecological knowledge from theory to practice should be understood as a multistage process bound to bridge and reduce the distances between the theoretical and practical landscape ecological knowledge on the empirical, methodical, theoretical, meta-scientific, didactic and applied level and simultaneously as a great challenge for landscape ecology.
Abandonment of agricultural land in central Poland and its ecological role
Authors: Majchrowska Anna
Published: May 2015

Majchrowska A.: Abandonment of agricultural land in central Poland and its ecological role. Ekologia (Bratislava), Vol. 32, No. 3, p. 320-327, 2013. The intent of this paper is to give an overview of the ongoing study of farmland abandonment in central Poland. The goal of this project, initiated in 2011, is to provide field-verified information: 1. What is the spatial distribution of abandoned agricultural land in central Poland? How is it related to biophysical features of the study area? 2. What are botanical characteristics of spontaneous vegetation succession in the abandoned agricultural lands? What are their environmental determinants? 3. How do the abandoned lands correspond to existing protected areas? How could they be used to strengthen the ecological landscape structure of central Poland? The paper summarises the general study approach, discusses some methodological difficulties, presents preliminary findings and formulates the expected results.
Landscape Ecology and Rural Roads: Traffic Calming for improving both landscape and wildlife?
Authors: Jaarsma Catharinus F. , Langevelde Frank van , Beunen Raoul
Published: May 2015

Jaarsma C.F., van Langevelde F., Beunen R.: Landscape ecology and rural roads: Traffic calming for improving both landscape and wildlife? Ekologia (Bratislava), Vol. 32, No. 4, p. 352-360, 2013.

The concept of traffic calming has successfully improved road safety. This concept applied in rural areas has provided new insights in the mitigation of negative effects of roads and traffic. Earlier studies have shown that the concept, distinguishing between local access roads and rural arterial highways, can also improve landscape connectivity for wildlife. Physical speed-reducing devices are frequently used in the context of traffic calming, but applying these devices may negatively impact the coherence and identity of the landscape. Therefore an alternative approach for speed reduction has been proposed, namely applying local landscape elements (such as hedgerows), plantings and objects of cultural heritage (such as railings of small bridges over local water courses) as speed-reducing devices. We explain this ‘green approach’ with examples from Dutch practice. We conclude that a combination of disciplines is needed to realize this new approach, which may be more cost-effective than the traditional approach and additionally improve the landscape quality. The new insights are at least equally effective from a landscape ecological viewpoint.
The disappearance of Barn Owl Tyto alba and Little Owl Athene noctua occurrence sites in farmland in East Poland
Authors: Kitowski Ignacy , Stasiak Krzysztof
Published: May 2015

Kitowski I., Stasiak K. The disappearance of barn owl Tyto alba and little owl Athene noctua occurrence sites in farmland in East Poland. Ekologia (Bratislava), Vol. 32, No. 4, p. 361-368, 2013.

Complexes of buildings belonging to vast farms, distributed in the form of islands over a landscape of monoculture farming constituted important occurrence sites of the barn owl and the little owl. During 1999-2012, the fate of 59 farms inhabited by the studied species was observed. Both species of owls preferred using three categories of buildings: cowsheds, warehouses and blocks of flats. Cases have been reported of the same building being simultaneously occupied by two species of owls. The study showed that the disappearance of sites of the studied owls is caused by factors connected with the decreasing intensity of farming. The most common of these factors turned out to be demolitions of buildings occupied by owls and the abandonment of animal production. Cases of predation by carnivore mammals were also reported. The process of disappearance of owl sites appears to manifest itself more intensely on those farms where residential and industrial infrastructure occupies a smaller area.
Perspectives for the application of computer models to forest dynamics forecasting in bieszczadzki national park (Poland)
Authors: Kozak Ihor , Perzanowski Kajetan , Kucharzyk Stanisław , Przybylska Krystyna , Zięba Stanisław , Frąk Rafał , Bujoczek Leszek
Published: May 2015

This paper presents the perspectives for application of computer models in forecasting the dynamics of forest development on example of Moczarne area, in Bieszczadzki National Park, based on authors’ computer models. First, the possibilities for forecasting the dynamics of forest development in a local scale, i.e. within single rectangular or circular study plot, are presented. For this purpose, a computer prognostic model FORKOM E has been applied, using both general mathematical relationships functioning within a forest ecosystem and empirical ones, characteristic for tree stands at analysed plots. Additionally, a layer of 3D visualisation of a tree stand, which is an integral part of the mentioned model, is also presented. Presented also are the possibilities for forecasting the dynamics of forest development at landscape scale, applying the theory of cellular automata. For this purpose, a prognostic computer model CELLAUT was used in which the whole analysed tree stand is understood as a set of single cells, where stages of landscape development dominating within those cells are considered as also the influence of particular cells upon their neighbours. The paper also describes the perspectives for application of self-learning neural networks in the process of supplementation and verification of some parameters of a tree stand, calculated by the above-mentioned models.
First data on canids depredation on livestock in an area of recent recolonization by wolf in central Italy : considerations on conflict survey and prevention methods
Authors: Magrini Caterina
Published: May 2015

Wolf and dog depredation on livestock in the province of Rieti, central Italy, in 2007-2008, was studied. The study area was characterized by a high degree of human disturbance, widespread presence of free ranging dogs and a recent wolf recolonization. Because of the ineffectiveness of compensation programmes, it was not possible to use the official statistics to investigate the extent of the conflict, but sample interviews and surveys of farmers were used. Also, the farming protection tecniques adopted for different livestock species were analysed; the most utilized husbandry method was stabling for cattle and pigs, annual fenced grazing for horses and sheeps, and annual open grazing only for goats. Although sheep farms were the most attacked because of their availability (33.6% of the whole farms), goat farms were the most selected by predators because of their accessibility (40% of farms kept goats in annual open grazing). Management implications to mitigate livestock depredation were discussed.
Woodland Ponds as an Important Habitat of Hippeutis Complanatus (Linnaeus 1758) Occurrence - Effect of Environmental Factors and Habitat Preferences
Authors: Spyra Aneta
Published: May 2015

Spyra A. Woodland ponds as an important habitat of Hippeutis complanatus (Linnaeus 1758) occurrence - effect of environmental factors and habitat preferences. Ekológia (Bratislava), Vol. 33, No. 2, p. 101-115, 2014.

In industrial areas, woodland ponds are refuges of biological diversity. The impact of environmental factors such as the physico-chemical properties of water, organic matter content in bottom sediments and various types of substratum on the occurrence of Hippeutis complanatus were assessed. In Poland, it is considered to be a species with an established but unspecified risk, deserving the status of endangered species due to the decline of wetland environments. A Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA) revealed associations between the distribution patterns of freshwater snails species and the concentration of nitrates (NO3) and calcium (Ca) as well as pH and the organic matter content in the bottom sediments. Based on statistical relationships, results of study suggest that the kind of substratum (Typha latifolia remains, Phragmites australis remains, fallen leaves of waterside trees) has an impact on the occurrence of freshwater snails including Hippeutis complanatus for which the preferred substratum is the fallen leaves of waterside trees and sites with a high content of organic matter in bottom sediments. The study has shown that isolated water bodies located in forest complexes can be refuges for species that occur in small numbers in other types of aquatic environments.
How to Select Potential Sites of Community Importance to the Natura 2000 Network: The Issue of Criteria
Authors: Tworek Stanisław , Makomaska-Juchiewicz Małgorzata , Cierlik Grzegorz
Published: May 2015

Tworek S., Makomaska-Juchiewicz M., Cierlik G.: How to select potential sites of community importance to the NATURA 2000 network: the issue of criteria. Ekológia (Bratislava), Vol. 33, No. 2, p. 127-137, 2014.

In this paper, on the basis of experience gained at the elaboration of the Proposal of Natura 2000 network in Poland, we analyse the usefulness of criteria recommended in Annex III of the Habitats Directive (HD) for selecting proposed Sites of Community Importance (pSCI), i.e. potential Special Areas of Conservation. These are sites important for conservation of habitat types and species (except for birds), listed in Annexes I and II of the HD. The recommendations should allow arriving at the estimates of relative value of the selected areas vis-a-vis the national resources of each habitat type and species. These are, however, neither objective and quantified nor easy to apply criteria; because most of them rely on best expert judgement, which is subjective to a great extent. Moreover, the practical usefulness of the criteria is related to the level of knowledge of the distribution and size of resources of the habitat types and species of European importance. Our experience of selecting pSCI at national level indicates that this stage of work calls for more precise criteria than these recommended in the HD. We present our proposal of domestic criteria, which make easier the preliminary selection of pSCI that were tested in work with local experts responsible for regional proposals of sites to the Natura 2000 network in Poland. Because of the far-reaching consequences entailing the designation of Natura 2000, we would like to encourage a widespread discussion on criteria for selecting pSCI.
Structure of the Breeding Bird Assemblage of A Natural Beech-Spruce Forest in the Šútovská Dolina National Nature Reserve, the Malá Fatra Mts
Authors: Korňan Martin , Adamík Peter
Published: May 2015

Korňan M., Adamík P.: Structure of the breeding bird assemblage of a natural beech-spruce forest in the Šútovská dolina National Nature Reserve, the Malá Fatra Mts. Ekológia (Bratislava), Vol. 33, No. 2, p. 138-150, 2014.

The structure of a breeding bird assemblage of a natural beech-spruce forest in the Šútovská dolina National Nature Reserve, the Malá Fatra Mts was studied in the period 2000−2002. A 20-ha forest interior study plot was established for bird censusing. Population abundances were estimated by a combined version of the mapping method from April to the beginning of July. Altogether, 49 breeders were recorded and the total mean breeding bird assemblage density of the beech-spruce forest was 54.23±8.60 pairs/10 ha (CV = 15.85%). One species were characterised as eudominant (≥10%): Fringilla coelebs; and five species as dominant (≥5%): Erithacus rubecula, Sylvia atricapilla, Parus ater, Regulus regulus and Certhia familiaris. The Shannon diversity index (H') varied between 3.97 and 4.04 bites. The evenness index (J') reached values between 0.74 and 0.79. Expected species diversity in random sample of 100 pairs calculated by rarefaction [E (S1
The Response of Adenanthera Pavonina L. and Parkinsonia Aculeata L. to Household Detergent Solution
Authors: Rizvi Aamna , Iqbal Muhammad Zafar , Khursheed Sehrish
Published: May 2015

Rizvi A., Iqbal M.Z., Khursheed S.: The response of Adenanthera pavonina L. and Parkinsonia aculeata L. to household detergent solution. Ekológia (Bratislava), Vol. 33, No. 2, p. 171-177, 2014.

The growth of Adenanthera pavonina L. and Parkinsonia aculeata L. was studied in soil irrigated with household detergent solution of different concentrations (0, 0.25 and 0.5%) under natural environmental conditions. Detergent solutions exhibited great inhibition of all the observed growth parameter of Adenanthera pavonina and Parkinsonia aculeata. Growth of plants extremely declined when irrigated with 0.75 and 1% treatments and died after two weeks of experiment. Analysis of soil showed that detergent solution has resulted in significant increase of pH, soluble sodium and chlorides. Soluble potassium and total phosphate were significantly decreased in soil irrigated with detergent solutions as compared to control.
Influence of Climate Change on Soil Water Regime in Koprivnica-Križevci County
Authors: Spoljar Andrija , Kisic Ivica , Volf Tomislava Peremin , Kamenjak Dragutin , Kaucic Drazen
Published: May 2015

Spoljar A., Kisic I., Peremin Volf, T., Kamenjak D., Kaucic D.: Influence of climate change on soil water regime in Koprivnica-Krizevci County. Ekológia (Bratislava), Vol. 33, No. 2, p. 178-187, 2014.

The influence of climate change on soil water regime was investigated in the area of Koprivnica- -Krizevci County (Republic of Croatia). Water balance calculations were done for three climatic stations using Thornthwaite and Palmer water balance methods. In the 18-year period (from 1991 to 2008), compared with the previously observed 30-year period (from 1961 to 1990), the increase in average mean annual temperature was 1°C. Regarding the global warming, there was an increase in plant water potential during the investigated period. Compared with the previous period and according to Thornthwaite and Palmer methods, there was an increase in water deficit. Negative linear trend in precipitation was detected for all climate stations in the investigated area (p > 0.05) as well as positive linear trend in mean annual temperature (p < 0.05). The calculation of linear trend in water deficit in soil, according to Thornthwaite method, shows that by the year 2020 there could be an increase in water deficit by an average of 13 mm (p > 0.05), whereas according to the Palmer method there could be an increase by an average of 9 mm (p < 0.05 only for the climate station in Krizevci).
Proportion of Root Production in Several Temperate Grasslands of Central Europe
Authors: Fiala Karel , Tůma Ivan , Holub Petr
Published: May 2015

Variability in
Does the Abundance of Voles Microtus spp. Still Determine a Number of Wintering Long-Eared Owls Asio Otus?
Authors: Grzędzicka Emilia
Published: May 2015

Long-eared owl
Assessment of Mountain Ecosystems Changes Under Anthropogenic Pressure in Latorica River Basin (Transcarpathian Region, Ukraine)
Authors: Kozak Olena , Didukh Yakiv
Published: May 2015

The Carpathian mountain ecosystems have been changed under anthropogenic pressure during last decades. The different types of anthropogenic pressure affect the ecosystem characteristics and functioning. The species composition, species richness and ecological indicator values of 12 ecological factors were compared among 14 habitats: natural, semi-natural, degraded and ruderal ecosystems in different altitude zones. The results show that anthropogenic pressure and altitude gradient influence indices of edaphic and climate conditions. The anthropogenic pressure also affects biodiversity: the highest species richness and Shannon-Wiener index are observed in habitats with ‘intermediate’ disturbances level, while high level of disturbances cause decrease in bio-diversity. The disturbances cause the ecosystem to become susceptible to invasion of alien species, while native species, especially rare, become vulnerable and can disappear.
Risk Factors and Clinical Presentation of Cervical Arterial Dissection: Preliminary Results of a Prospective Case-Control Study
Authors: Thomas Lucy C. , Rivett Darren A. , Attia John R. , Levi Christopher
Published: May 2015

Study Design

Cross-sectional case-control study.

Objectives

To identify risk factors and clinical presentation of individuals with cervical arterial dissection.

Background

Cervical arterial dissection is a common cause of stroke in young people and has in rare cases been associated with cervical manipulative therapy. The mechanism is considered to involve pre-existing arterial susceptibility and a precipitating event, such as minor trauma. Identification of individuals at risk or early recognition of a dissection in progress could help expedite medical intervention and avoid inappropriate treatment.

Methods

Participants were individuals 55 years of age or younger from the Hunter region of New South Wales, Australia with radiologically confirmed vertebral or internal carotid artery dissection and an age- and sex-matched comparison group. Participants were interviewed about risk factors, preceding events, and clinical features of their stroke. Physical examination of joint mobility and soft tissue compliance was undertaken.

Results

Twenty-four participants with cervical arterial dissection and 21 matched comparisons with ischemic stroke but not dissection were included in the study. Seventeen (71%) of the 24 participants with dissection reported a recent history of minor mechanical neck trauma or strain, with 4 of these 17 reporting recent neck manipulative therapy treatment. Cardiovascular risk factors were uncommon, with the exception of diagnosed migraine. Among the participants with dissection, 67% reported transient ischemic features in the month prior to their admission for dissection.

Conclusion

Recent minor mechanical trauma or strain to the head or neck appears to be associated with cervical arterial dissection. General cardiovascular risk factors, with the exception of migraine, were not important risk factors for dissection in this cohort. Preceding transient neurological symptoms appear to occur commonly and may assist in the identification of this serious pathology.

Level of Evidence

Prognosis, level 4. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2015;45(7):503–511. Epub 21 May 2015. doi:10.2519/jospt.2015.5877
Development of a Review-of-Systems Screening Tool for Orthopaedic Physical Therapists: Results From the Optimal Screening for Prediction of Referral and Outcome (OSPRO) Cohort
Authors: George Steven Z. , Beneciuk Jason M. , Bialosky Joel E. , Lentz Trevor A. , Zeppieri Giorgio , Pei Qinglin , Wu Samuel S.
Published: May 2015

Study Design

Literature review and cross-sectional study.

Background

Direct access to physical therapy necessitates greater responsibility to determine appropriateness of care by recognizing the potential for concomitant disease or systemic involvement. Recent research has identified excessive variability in the reporting of red flag symptoms. An initial step to improve the identification of red flag symptoms is the development of a standardized screening tool.

Objective

To describe the development of a review-of-systems screening tool appropriate for use by orthopaedic physical therapists.

Methods

First, a red flag symptom item bank was compiled from a systematic literature review to allow for further psychometric testing and development of a screening tool. Second, physical therapists in 11 outpatient clinics recruited patients presenting with primary complaints of neck, shoulder, low back, or knee pain. Patients completed the red flag symptom item bank and standard questionnaires for comorbidities, negative mood, quality of life, pain, and function. The development of the screening tool involved identifying and combining different 3-item sets that characterized the highest number of patients reporting at least 1 positive symptom response (operationally defined as “red flag symptom responder”).

Results

The literature search yielded 103 studies that met the inclusion criteria, and the final item bank consisted of 97 items representing 8 body systems. Four hundred thirty-one patients with primary complaints of neck (n = 93), shoulder (n = 108), low back (n = 119), or knee (n = 111) disorders contributed to the cross-sectional study. The number of red flag symptom responders was 393 of 431 (91.2%). These patients were older, more likely to be female, had lower income, and were more likely to report neck or back pain (all, P<.05). A 10-item review-of-systems screening tool correctly identified 372 of 393 (94.7%) responders, and a 23-item version identified all 393 (100%) responders. The review-of-systems screening tools and the complete 97-item bank had similar correlations with concurrent clinical measures, except for depressive symptoms.

Conclusion

Concise red flag symptom identification appears to be feasible in outpatient orthopaedic physical therapy settings. Future research will determine how this review-of-systems screening tool needs refinement for different patient populations and whether it predicts clinical outcomes or the need for referral to other providers. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2015;45(7):512–526. Epub 21 May 2015. doi:10.2519/jospt.2015.5900
The investigation of mechanical properties of B4C-reinforced AlSi7 foams
Authors: Uzun Arif , Turker Mehmet
Published: May 2015

In this study, the mechanical properties of B4C-reinforced AlSi7 foams produced by using a powder metallurgy method were investigated. For this purpose, Al foams containing B4C at various ratios (0, 2, 4 and 6 %) were prepared with dimensions of 30 × 30 × 14 mm and 110 × 15 × 14 mm for compression and bending tests. Both tests were performed at a 1 mm min–1 strain rate. According to the experimental results, the compressive stress of B4C-reinforced/unreinforced AlSi7 foams, whose relative densities were close to each other, for 10 % strain increased about 15 % with the addition of B4C. Although energy absorption values of B4C-reinforced/unreinforced AlSi7 foams were in a complex correlation for 60 % strain, the amount of absorption energy increased with the increase in relative density and the amount of B4C. Bending strength increased due to strain hardening that occurs with the addition of B4C to AlSi7 foams. While maximum bending strength was 0.9 kN in unreinforced materials, it was ∼1.15 kN in 6 % B4C-reinforced AlSi7 foams. Thus, the bending strength of B4C-reinforced materials is higher by ∼ 28 %.
Impact Evaluation of an After-school Cooking Skills Program in a Disadvantaged Community: Back to Basics
Authors: Burrows Tracy L. , Lucas Hannah , Morgan Philip J. , Bray James , Collins Clare E.
Published: May 2015

Purpose: Few efficacious child obesity interventions have been converted into ongoing community programs in the after-school setting. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of phase 2 of the Back to Basics cooking club on dietary behaviours and fruit and vegetable variety in a population at risk of obesity at a low income school with > 10% indigenous population.

Methods: Baseline and 3-month dietary intake and social cognitive theory (SCT) constructs were collected in 51 children, mean age 9 years, 61% female. McNemar tests were used for comparison of proportions between categorical variables. Cohen's d was used to compare effect sizes across different measures.

Results: Consumption of one or more fruit servings per day significantly increased from 41% to 67% (P = 0.02, d = 0.13) and there was a trend for increasing the weekly variety of fruit and vegetables. The SCT constructs assessed within the current study improved significantly (P < 0.05), with moderate to large effect sizes (d = 0.33–0.78).

Conclusion: This study documents that a previous efficacious healthy lifestyle program can be adapted for use as an obesity prevention program addressing improvements in vegetable and fruit intakes in a low income community with a relatively high indigenous population.
Socioeconomic and Cultural Correlates of Diet Quality in the Canadian Arctic: Results from the 2007–2008 Inuit Health Survey
Authors: Galloway Tracey , Johnson-Down Louise , Egeland Grace M.
Published: May 2015

Purpose: We examined the impact of socioeconomic and cultural factors on dietary quality in adult Inuit living in the Canadian Arctic.

Methods: Interviews and a 24-h dietary recall were administered to 805 men and 1292 women from Inuit regions in the Canadian Arctic. We examined the effect of age, sex, education, income, employment, and cultural variables on respondents' energy, macronutrient intake, sodium/potassium ratio, and healthy eating index. Logistic regression was used to assess the impact of socioeconomic status (SES) on diet quality indicators.

Results: Age was positively associated with traditional food (TF) consumption and greater energy from protein but negatively associated with total energy and fibre intake. Associations between SES and diet quality differed considerably between men and women and there was considerable regional variability in diet quality measures. Age and cultural variables were significant predictors of diet quality in logistic regression. Increased age and use of the Inuit language in the home were the most significant predictors of TF consumption.

Conclusions: Our findings are consistent with studies reporting a nutrition transition in circumpolar Inuit. We found considerable variability in diet quality and complex interaction between SES and cultural variables producing mixed effects that differ by age and gender.
Food Literacy: Definition and Framework for Action
Authors: Cullen Tracy , Hatch Janelle , Martin Wanda , Higgins Joan Wharf , Sheppard Rosanna
Published: May 2015

The term food literacy is emergent, and as a result the literature reflects a great variety of definitions. Simultaneously, new research and food literacy programming is being developed without an agreed upon definition of what food literacy is and how food skills, food security, and health literacy may fit with the definition. We undertook a scoping review and conceptual analysis to identify how the term is understood and to determine shared components of definitions. We found that although most definitions included a nutrition and food skills component, there was great variation in how the ability to access, process, and enjoy food was affected by our complex food system. We propose a definition of food literacy that includes the positive relationship built through social, cultural, and environmental experiences with food enabling people to make decisions that support health. We offer a framework that situates food literacy at the intersection between community food security and food skills, and we assert that behaviours and skills cannot be separated from their environmental or social context. The proposed definition and framework are intended to be guiding templates for academics and practitioners to position their work in education and advocacy, bringing together separate spheres for collective action.
Using Life Cycle Assessment to Inform Decision-Making for Sustainable Buildings
Authors: Vandenbroucke Mieke , Galle Waldo , De Temmerman Niels , Debacker Wim , Paduart Anne
Published: May 2015

Because the student residences of the Vrije Universiteit Brussel built in 1973 are not adapted to current comfort standards, the university decided to construct new accommodation facilities at the border of the campus. However, besides demolition, there was no strategy on how to deal with the existing ones. In the search for a more sustainable strategy, the university’s administration assigned the TRANSFORM research team to define various design strategies and to assess the long-term environmental consequences in order to select the best strategy by the use of Life Cycle Environmental Assessment. Current Life Cycle Environmental Assessments generally include maintenance, repair, replacement and operational energy consumption during use, but do not include future refurbishments. However, it is likely that their impact cannot be neglected either. Therefore, this article offers a framework which takes future refurbishments into account, in addition to the standard use impacts: initial and end-of-life impact. We report on the construction assemblies, the results of the assessments conducted and the advice provided. The results confirm that the impact of future refurbishments cannot be neglected. In addition, we observed that there were significant environmental savings when transforming the residences compared to new construction, and long-term benefits of a design enabling the reuse of building elements.