bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crop residue management and oxalate‐extractable iron and aluminium explain long‐term soil organic carbon sequestration and dynamics
Authors: Van De Vreken P. , Gobin A. , Baken S. , Van Holm L. , Verhasselt A. , Smolders E. , Merckx R.
Published: May 2016

The management of crop residues affects carbon (C)‐sequestration. This study aimed to identify the interaction between residue management and soil properties on C‐sequestration. The hypothesis was that larger silt and clay contents and larger residue inputs enhance C‐sequestration. The soil was sampled in Belgium in long‐term (≥ 15 years) cropping systems with grain maize, Zea mays L. (all stover (leaves and stalks) returned), silage maize (all stover removed) or permanent grass. The fields sampled were distributed over two adjacent regions; one with sandy soil (33% silt + clay) and one with silty loam soil (71% silt + clay). The 13C abundance of the soil organic carbon (SOC) revealed that topsoil (0–30 cm) under grain maize contained more maize‐derived SOC than that under silage maize (14 ± 1 and 9 ± 1 Mg C ha−1, respectively, P < 0.001, in sand, and 17 ± 1 and 14 ± 1 Mg C ha−1, respectively, P < 0.001, in silty loam). Total SOC stocks were unaffected by crop management, however, which suggests substitution of native SOC by fresh SOC derived from residues, especially in sandy soil where the silt and clay fraction is saturated with SOC. The maize‐derived SOC stocks of the silty loam soil are 3.5–5.5 Mg C ha−1 larger than those of the sandy soil, which confirms the larger potential of the former to sequester C. Surprisingly, the native C3‐SOC stocks in the sandy soil were 25–30 Mg C ha−1 larger than those of the silty loam soil. The concentration of SOC in the silt and clay fraction was on average three times larger for the sandy than for the silty loam soil. The concentration of oxalate‐extractable Al and Fe in the same fraction was on average 2.5 times larger for sandy than for silty loam soil. Silt and clay‐associated SOC correlated with the Fe + Al concentration across all regions and treatments (R2 = 0.62). This suggests that organo‐mineral associations and the formation of organo‐metal complexes promote C‐sequestration in this temperate region.

Highlights

Different factors affect carbon stocks under two contrasting soils and four cropping systems.

Returning maize residues promotes substitution of native soil organic carbon by maize‐derived carbon.

Organo‐mineral interactions in the silt and clay fraction enhance carbon sequestration.

The legacy of historical plaggen manuring has a strong effect on native soil carbon stocks.
A Tale of Two Tests (and of Two Examinees)
Authors: Clauser Amanda L. , Wainer Howard
Published: May 2016

It is widely accepted dogma that consequential decisions are better made with multiple measures, because using but a single one is thought more likely to be laden with biases and errors that can be better controlled with a wider source of evidence for making judgments. Unfortunately, advocates of using multiple measures too rarely provide detailed directions of exactly how to use them. In this article, we describe one source of problems with multiple measures and lay out a strategy for finding solutions.
Safety and tolerability of adjunctive brivaracetam as intravenous infusion or bolus in patients with epilepsy
Authors: Klein Pavel , Biton Victor , Dilley Deanne , Barnes Matthew , Schiemann Jimmy , Lu Sarah
Published: May 2016

Objectives

An intravenous (IV) formulation of brivaracetam (BRV), a selective, high‐affinity ligand for synaptic vesicle protein 2A, has been developed. We investigated the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of adjunctive IV BRV administered as a bolus or infusion to adults with epilepsy.

Methods

A phase III, multicenter, randomized, four‐arm, parallel‐group study (NCT01405508) of patients aged 16–70 years with focal or generalized epilepsy uncontrolled by 1–2 antiepileptic drugs was undertaken. The study comprised a 7‐day baseline period, a 7‐day double‐blind run‐in period (oral BRV 200 mg/day or placebo [PBO] twice daily [BID]), and 4.5‐day open‐label evaluation period (IV BRV 200 mg/day BID; 2‐min bolus or 15‐min infusion, total nine doses). Patients were randomized 1:1:1:1 PBO/BRV bolus; PBO/BRV infusion; BRV/BRV bolus; BRV/BRV infusion. Safety and tolerability were assessed using adverse events, electrocardiography, vital signs, and laboratory assessments. BRV plasma concentrations were measured before and 15 min after the first and last IV doses.

Results

Of the 105 patients randomized (53.3% women; 77.1% white; mean [standard deviation; SD] age 41.6 [12.2] years), 103 (98.1%) completed the study. Treatment‐emergent adverse event (TEAE) incidence during IV BRV was similar whether IV BRV was initiated first (70.6%) or followed oral BRV (66.0%), and whether it was administered as a bolus (71.2%) or infusion (65.4%). Injection‐related TEAEs were reported by 9.6% of patients following bolus and 11.5% following infusion. No serious TEAEs were reported. IV BRV plasma concentrations were higher after the first dose in the conversion groups than initiation groups, and slightly higher in the bolus arm than the infusion arm; concentrations were similar in all patients after the last IV dose.

Significance

IV BRV was generally well tolerated, with similar tolerability as a bolus or infusion and independent of de novo administration or as conversion from oral BRV tablets. IV BRV may be an option for patients who are unable to receive oral BRV.
High‐frequency brain networks undergo modular breakdown during epileptic seizures
Authors: Fuertinger Stefan , Simonyan Kristina , Sperling Michael R. , Sharan Ashwini D. , Hamzei‐Sichani Farid
Published: May 2016

Objective

Cortical high‐frequency oscillations (HFOs; 100–500 Hz) play a critical role in the pathogenesis of epilepsy; however, whether they represent a true epileptogenic process remains largely unknown. HFOs have been recorded in the human cortex but their network dynamics during the transitional period from interictal to ictal phase remain largely unknown. We sought to determine the high‐frequency network dynamics of these oscillations in patients with epilepsy who were undergoing intracranial electroencephalographic recording for seizure localization.

Methods

We applied a graph theoretical analysis framework to high‐resolution intracranial electroencephalographic recordings of 24 interictal and 24 seizure periods to identify the spatiotemporal evolution of community structure of high‐frequency cortical networks at rest and during multiple seizure episodes in patients with intractable epilepsy.

Results

Cortical networks at all examined frequencies showed temporally stable community architecture in all 24 interictal periods. During seizure periods, high‐frequency networks showed a significant breakdown of their community structure, which was characterized by the emergence of numerous small nodal communities, not limited to seizure foci and encompassing the entire recorded network. Such network disorganization was observed on average 225 s before the electrographic seizure onset and extended on average 190 s after termination of the seizure. Gamma networks were characterized by stable community dynamics during resting and seizure periods.

Significance

Our findings suggest that the modular breakdown of high‐frequency cortical networks represents a distinct functional pathology that underlies epileptogenesis and corresponds to a cortical state of highest propensity to generate seizures.
Historical Oppression and Indigenous Families: Uncovering Potential Risk Factors for Indigenous Families Touched by Violence
Authors: Burnette Catherine E.
Published: May 2016

Violence against Indigenous women in the United States is higher than for any other racial group. Indigenous women tend to rely on families for support and recovery, yet the risk factors related to Indigenous families affected by violence are unknown. Therefore, interviews from a critical ethnography were used to uncover the perspectives of Indigenous women who have experienced intimate partner violence, along with the professionals who serve them, to understand potential risk factors that create vulnerability to and impair recovery from violence. Several themes emerged from pragmatic horizon analysis of interviews with 49 Indigenous women and professionals who work with tribal members affected by violence, including family divisions and parental impairments (i.e., intergenerational patterns of absent parental figures, parental alcohol abuse, and impaired bonding). Future research should examine these potential risk factors related to families affected by violence and their connections with historical oppression.
Patterns of Enrollment and Engagement of Custodial Grandmothers in a Randomized Clinical Trial of Psychoeducational Interventions
Authors: Smith Gregory C. , Strieder Frederick , Greenberg Patty , Hayslip Bert , Montoro‐Rodriguez Julian
Published: May 2016

Andersen's (2008) behavior model was used to investigate patterns of enrollment and treatment engagement among 343 custodial grandmothers who participated in a randomized clinical trial of three psychosocial interventions:(a) a behavioral parenting program, (b) a cognitive behavioral coping program, or (c) an information‐only condition. Treatment completion was superior to that typically found with birth parents, even though the grandmothers and their target grandchildren both had high levels of mental and physical health challenges. Compliance did not differ significantly by condition but was higher among grandmothers who self‐reported less positive affect, were older, and were using mental health professionals. Treatment satisfaction was highest in grandmothers who attended more treatment sessions, reported lower annual family income, had a health problem, and were using mental health professionals. The practice and policy implications of these findings are discussed, especially in terms of strategies for enhancing the engagement of custodial grandfamilies in future psychoeducational interventions.
Effects of home‐based exercise and branched‐chain amino acid supplementation on aerobic capacity and glycemic control in patients with cirrhosis
Authors: Nishida Yuichiro , Ide Yasushi , Okada Michiaki , Otsuka Taiga , Eguchi Yuichiro , Ozaki Iwata , Tanaka Keitaro , Mizuta Toshihiko
Published: May 2016

Aim

The aim of the current study is to examine whether home‐based step exercise at anaerobic threshold (AT) and branched‐chain amino acid (BCAA) supplementation improve aerobic capacity, ectopic fat in liver and muscle, and glycemic control in patients with liver cirrhosis.

Methods

Six female patients with compensated liver cirrhosis received oral BCAA and were instructed to undertake bench step exercises at an intensity that corresponded to AT, with a goal of performing 140 min of exercise per week at home for 12 months. Fat deposition in liver (liver to spleen ratio) and intramuscular adipose tissue content were assessed at baseline and after 6 and 12 months by computed tomography. Glycemic control indices (homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance, hemoglobin A1c [HbA1c], glycated albumin [GA] and chronic liver disease [CLD]‐HbA1c [average of HbA1c and GA/3]) were also measured.

Results

Twelve months of moderate training significantly increased AT, which is an index of aerobic capacity, but no changes were observed in body weight, liver to spleen ratio, or intramuscular adipose tissue content. Glycated albumin significantly decreased (P < 0.05) and there tended to be a similar decrease in CLD‐HbA1c (P < 0.1) after the exercise. The baseline serum triglyceride level correlated with changes in GA (P < 0.01) and CLD‐HbA1c (P < 0.1).

Conclusion

The current results suggest that the combination of home‐based step exercise at AT and BCAA supplementation enhances aerobic capacity and potentially improves glycemic control in patients with cirrhosis without changes in body weight. The baseline serum serum triglyceride may partially explain the degree of improvement in glycemic control with exercise and BCAA intervention.
Role of Arbuscular Mycorrhiza in Alleviating Salinity Stress in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Grown Under Ambient and Elevated CO2
Authors: Zhu X. , Song F. , Liu S. , Liu F.
Published: May 2016

Plant growth and development are influenced by future elevated atmospheric CO2 concentration and increased salinity stress. AM (arbuscular mycorrhiza) symbiosis has been shown to improve plant growth and resistance to environmental stresses. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential role of AM fungus in alleviating salinity stress in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) plants grown under ambient and elevated CO2 concentrations. Wheat plants inoculated or not inoculated with AM fungus were grown in two glasshouses with different CO2 concentrations (400 and 700 μmol l−1) and salinity levels (0, 9.5 and 19.0 dS m−1). Results showed that salinity stress decreased and elevated CO2 increased AM colonization. AM inoculation increased plant dry weight under elevated CO2 and salinity stress. Stomatal conductance, density, size and aperture of AM plants were greater than non‐AM plants. AM fungi enhanced NUE by altering plant C assimilation and N uptake. AM plants had higher soluble sugar concentration and [K+]: [Na+] ratio compared with non‐AM plants. It is concluded that AM symbiosis improves wheat plant growth at vegetative stages through increasing stomatal conductance, enhancing NUE, accumulating soluble sugar, and improving ion homeostasis in wheat plants grown at elevated CO2 and salinity stress.
Patients' assessment of quality of care in public tertiary hospitals with and without accreditation: comparative cross‐sectional study
Authors: Aboshaiqah Ahmad E. , Alonazi Wadi B. , Patalagsa Joel Gonzales
Published: May 2016

Aim

To compare patients’ assessment of quality of care provided by public tertiary hospitals grouped according to accreditation status.

Background

Healthcare institutions worldwide are increasingly adopting accreditation as continuing initiative aimed at improving structures, processes and outcomes associated with quality of care. Patients being recipients of health care need to participate in assessing the quality of care they experienced while confined for therapeutic management.

Design

Comparative, cross‐sectional.

Method

Data were collected from patients confined in public tertiary hospitals (n = 517 in four with accreditation and n = 542 in four without accreditation) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia between February 2011–June 2011. Patients rated key performance indicators grouped under the dimensions of structure, process and outcome. Mann–Whitney U‐test, Spearman Correlation Coefficient and coefficient of determination were used in analysing data.

Results

Patients in accredited public tertiary hospitals perceived structure, outcome and overall quality of care statistically higher than patients in non‐accredited hospitals. No statistical differences were found in process (access and communication) indicators. Accreditation status is marginally associated with structure; outcome; and overall quality of care. The proportion of variance in the ranks of accreditation status explained the proportion of variance in the ranks of structure; outcome; and overall quality of care.

Conclusion

The results apparently showed better structure, outcome and overall quality of care in accredited hospitals. Accreditation's association in the overall quality of care apparently remained unclear. Further studies are needed to appreciate the contribution of accreditation.
Retracted: MicroRNA‑224 promotes the sensitivity of osteosarcoma cells to cisplatin by targeting Rac1
Authors: Geng Shuo , Gu Lina , Ju Fang , Zhang Hepeng , Wang Yiwen , Tang Han , Bi ZhengGang , Yang Chenglin
Published: May 2016

Osteosarcoma is the most common primary bone tumour in children and adolescents. Accumulating evidence has shown that microRNAs (miRNAs) participate in the development of almost all types of cancer. Here, we investigated the role of miR‐224 in the development and progression of osteosarcoma. We demonstrated that miR‐224 was down‐regulated in osteosarcoma cell lines and tissues. Lower miR‐224 levels were correlated with shorter survivalin osteosarcoma patients. Furthermore, overexpression of miR‐224 suppressed osteosarcoma cell proliferation, migration and invasion and contributed to the increased sensitivity of MG‐63 cells to cisplatin. We identified Rac1 as a direct target gene of miR‐224 in osteosarcoma. Rac1 expression was up‐regulated in the osteosarcoma cell lines and tissues, and there was an inverse correlation between Rac1 and miR‐224 expression in osteosarcoma tissues. Furthermore, rescuing Rac1 expression decreased the sensitivity of miR‐224‐overexpressing MG‐63 cells to cisplatin. We also demonstrated that ectopic expression of Rac1 promoted the proliferation, migration and invasion of miR‐224‐overexpressing MG‐63 cells. These data suggest that miR‐224 plays a tumour suppressor role in the development of osteosarcoma and is related to the sensitivity of osteosarcoma to cisplatin.
Varenicline in smokers with diabetes: A pooled analysis of 15 randomized, placebo‐controlled studies of varenicline
Authors: Tonstad Serena , Lawrence David
Published: May 2016

Aims/Introduction

Stopping smoking deserves high priority in preventing complications of diabetes; however, only sparse data are available regarding the efficacy of pharmacotherapy in smokers with diabetes. We assessed the efficacy and safety of varenicline in smokers with diabetes who participated in 15 double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled studies.

Materials and Methods

This retrospective pooled analysis included data from smokers of ≥10 cigarettes per day with diabetes. Participants received varenicline 1 mg b.i.d. or placebo for 12 weeks. We examined carbon monoxide‐confirmed continuous abstinence rates (CARs) for weeks 9–12, 9–24 and 9–52, and compared safety in participants with and without diabetes.

Results

Of 6,771 participants, 323 had diabetes (varenicline n = 162; placebo n = 161). Week 9–12 CAR was higher with varenicline than placebo (43.8% vs 24.8%; odds ratio 2.36, 95% CI 1.47–3.79), as was week 9–24 CAR (27.5% vs 14.4%; odds ratio 2.25, 95% CI 1.27–4.00). Week 9–52 CAR was 18.4% for varenicline and 10.1% for placebo (odds ratio 2.00, 95% CI 0.90–4.49). The most commonly‐reported adverse events in participants with diabetes for varenicline vs placebo were: nausea (27.2% vs 8.1%); headache (9.3% vs 9.9%); and insomnia (8.6% vs 5.6%), incidences that were similar in participants without diabetes (29.6% vs 9.7%; 13.4% vs 10.9%; and 11.4% vs 7.1%, respectively). Weight gain in quitters with diabetes (1.7 kg) was similar to that of those without diabetes (2.1 kg).

Conclusions

Varenicline was an effective and well‐tolerated aid for smoking cessation in individuals with diabetes. Safety was comparable with participants without diabetes.
Effects of riparian forest removal on the trophic dynamics of a Neotropical stream fish assemblage
Authors: Lobón‐Cerviá J. , Mazzoni R. , Rezende C. F.
Published: May 2016

The effects of riparian forest removal on a neotropical stream fish assemblage were assessed in the Mata Atlântica. Fish assemblage structure and fish feeding patterns were quantified at three sites along a pristine‐to‐deforested gradient in a Serra do Mar stream: (1) a pristine site fully covered by canopy with no light penetration and transparent waters, (2) an intermediate site with partially removed forest and (3) a fully removed forest site with no canopy and full light penetration where siltation and turbid waters predominate. Fish assemblage structure, fish densities and their feeding patterns differed widely among sites. Whilst the same five fish species occurred at the three sites, forest removal favoured the occurrence of sediment‐tolerant iliophagous benthic species at the deforested site. At the pristine site, invertebrate prey predominated in water column fish diet and feeding overlap among species was low. Severe shifts in the feeding patterns were noticed in both deforested sites. Invertebrates were replaced by detritus, organic matter and algae at both sites and feeding overlap increased markedly. The overwhelming feeding adaptability of these neotropical fishes appeared capable of buffering the deleterious effects of forest removal on stream quality in terms of increased light penetration, siltation and water turbidity. Forest cutting in this Mata Atlântica stream clearly caused strong functional changes associated with forest clearance through important modifications in the assemblage organization and trophic patterns of the main species, but did not eliminate species.
Characterization, expression analysis and localization pattern of toll‐like receptor 1 (tlr1) and toll‐like receptor 2 (tlr2) genes in grass carp Ctenopharyngodon idella
Authors: He L. B. , Wang H. , Luo L. F. , Jiang S. H. , Liu L. Y. , Li Y. M. , Huang R. , Liao L. J. , Zhu Z. Y. , Wang Y. P.
Published: May 2016

In this study, the toll‐like receptor 1 (tlr1) and toll‐like receptor 2 (tlr2) genes of grass carp Ctenopharyngodon idella were cloned and characterized. tlr1 and tlr2 were found to be highly expressed in immune system organs such as spleen, middle kidney and heart kidney. The expression level of tlr1 and tlr2 was found to be up‐regulated at the later stage of viral challenge process. Moreover, subcellular localization indicated that Tlr1 and Tlr2 shared similar localization pattern and both of them may locate in the plasma membrane of transfected cells.
Effect of Vacuum Drying Temperature on Drying Kinetics, Effective Moisture Diffusivity and Quality of Peeled Litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.)
Authors: Richter Reis Felipe , Ivahashi Marcela Massumi , Guéniat Rosa Aluísio Henrique
Published: May 2016

This study aimed at investigating the effect of vacuum drying temperature on drying kinetics, drying rates, effective moisture diffusivity and quality parameters of litchi fruits. Peeled litchi quarters were dried at 50–70 °C at an absolute pressure of 8 kPa. Results show that the vacuum drying occurred in the falling rate period. Drying rates increased with drying temperature. The Page model provided the best fit to the drying kinetics. Effective moisture diffusivity ranged between 1.997 × 10−9 and 5.012 × 10−9 m2/s. The temperature dependence of the effective moisture diffusivity was well described by an Arrhenius‐type equation. The activation energy for moisture diffusion was 41.81 kJ/mol. Drying temperature did not significantly affect product sensory acceptance, density, shrinkage and rehydration. The products dried at 50 and 70 °C presented slightly superior texture and flavor, while the product dried at 60 °C presented significantly higher lightness and lower water activity.

Practical Applications

This work provides valuable information on the vacuum drying of litchi fruits, which are appreciated in many countries due to their pleasant sensory characteristics. Vacuum drying is not a costly drying method. At the same time, vacuum drying produces dried foods of relatively good quality. This study could be used as a reference by small and medium scale food processors interested in producing dried litchi of good quality with relatively low investment in equipment. The understanding of the influence of drying temperature on quality parameters is useful for deciding which temperature is more appropriate depending on the desired quality aspects, while the calculation of engineering parameters is important for designing the drying process.
Preconception Care: Improving the Health of Women and Families
Authors: Nypaver Cynthia , Arbour Megan , Niederegger Elizabeth
Published: May 2016

Approximately 50% of the pregnancies in the United States are unintended. Most pregnancies are not diagnosed until after the period of organogenesis. Environmental exposures, chronic and acute illnesses, and ingestion of teratogens that can negatively affect the fetus may occur during these early weeks of pregnancy. Some chronic disease effects and lifestyle behaviors that affect the fetus can be adjusted prior to conception. Because of this, the health of a woman and her partner prior to pregnancy are of utmost importance. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Preconception Health and Health Care Initiative have established goals and evidence‐based guidelines for preconception care. Preconception health care can be threaded into every visit with all women of reproductive age who are not pregnant. The guidelines focus on 3 main areas: screening, health promotion, and interventions. Screening is accomplished with women and couples via a thorough history and assessment of risks including a reproductive life plan; assessment of tobacco, alcohol and drug use; sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing and education; and assessment of environmental or teratogenic risk factors. Health promotion includes making sure the woman is current with regard to recommended vaccines, taking appropriate levels of folic acid, and maintaining a healthy weight and level of physical activity. The health care provider can intervene when indicated with management of chronic and acute illnesses, as well as provide assistance with tobacco, alcohol, and drug cessation as necessary. When a woman and her partner are healthy prior to pregnancy, unintended or planned, the woman and her fetus have a better chance at a healthy gestation and beyond. This article, via the use of case presentations, reviews how preconception health can be integrated into an office visit.
Role of implant configurations supporting three‐unit fixed partial denture on mandibular bone response: biological‐data‐based finite element study
Authors: Yoda N. , Liao Z. , Chen J. , Sasaki K. , Swain M. , Li Q.
Published: May 2016

Implant‐supported fixed partial denture with cantilever extension can transfer the excessive load to the bone around implants and stress/strain concentration potentially leading to bone resorption. This study investigated the effects of implant configurations supporting three‐unit fixed partial denture (FPD) on the stress and strain distribution in the peri‐implant bone by combining clinically measured time‐dependent loading data and finite element (FE) analysis. A 3‐dimensional mandibular model was constructed based on computed tomography (CT) images. Four different configurations of implants supporting 3‐unit FPDs, namely three implant‐supported FPD, conventional three‐unit bridge FPD, distal cantilever FPD and mesial cantilever FPD, were modelled. The FPDs were virtually inserted to the molar area in the mandibular FE models. The FPDs were loaded according to time‐dependent in vivo‐measured 3‐dimensional loading data during chewing. The von Mises stress (VMS) and equivalent strain (EQS) in peri‐implant bone regions were evaluated as mechanical stimuli. During the chewing cycles, the regions near implant necks and bottom apexes experienced high VMS and EQS than the middle regions in all implant‐supported FPD configurations. Higher VMS and EQS values were also observed at the implant neck region adjacent to the cantilever extension in the cantilevered configurations. The patient‐specific dynamic loading data and CT‐based reconstruction of full 3D mandibular allowed us to model the biomechanical responses more realistically. The results provided data for clinical assessment of implant configuration to improve longevity and reliability of the implant‐supported FPD restoration.
Evolutionary melting pots: a biodiversity hotspot shaped by ring diversifications around the Black Sea in the Eastern tree frog (Hyla orientalis)
Authors: Dufresnes Christophe , Litvinchuk Spartak N. , Leuenberger Julien , Ghali Karim , Zinenko Oleksandr , Stöck Matthias , Perrin Nicolas
Published: May 2016

Hotspots of intraspecific genetic diversity, which are of primary importance for the conservation of species, have been associated with glacial refugia, that is areas where species survived the Quaternary climatic oscillations. However, the proximate mechanisms generating these hotspots remain an open issue. Hotspots may reflect the long‐term persistence of large refugial populations; alternatively, they may result from allopatric differentiation between small and isolated populations, that later admixed. Here, we test these two scenarios in a widely distributed species of tree frog, Hyla orientalis, which inhabits Asia Minor and southeastern Europe. We apply a fine‐scale phylogeographic survey, combining fast‐evolving mitochondrial and nuclear markers, with a dense sampling throughout the range, as well as ecological niche modelling, to understand what shaped the genetic variation of this species. We documented an important diversity centre around the Black Sea, composed of multiple allopatric and/or parapatric diversifications, likely driven by a combination of Pleistocene climatic fluctuations and complex regional topography. Remarkably, this diversification forms a ring around the Black Sea, from the Caucasus through Anatolia and eastern Europe, with terminal forms coming into contact and partially admixing in Crimea. Our results support the view that glacial refugia generate rather than host genetic diversity and can also function as evolutionary melting pots of biodiversity. Moreover, we report a new case of ring diversification, triggered by a large, yet cohesive dispersal barrier, a very rare situation in nature. Finally, we emphasize the Black Sea region as an important centre of intraspecific diversity in the Palearctic with implications for conservation.
Intraspecific variation in epiphyte functional traits reveals limited effects of microclimate on community assembly in temperate deciduous oak canopies
Authors: Coyle Jessica R.
Published: May 2016

Forest canopies are heterogeneous environments where changes in microclimate over short distances create an opportunity for niche‐based filtering of canopy‐dwelling species assemblages. This environmental filtering may not occur if species' physiological capacities are flexible or if rapid dispersal alleviates compositional differences. I assess the role of humidity, light and temperature gradients in structuring epiphyte communities in temperate deciduous oak (Quercus) canopies and determine whether gradients filter species with fixed traits or whether environmental constraints act primarily to alter individual phenotypes. I measured environmental conditions and seven functional traits related to water and light acquisition on individual macrolichens at 60 sample locations in northern red oaks Quercus rubra in two Piedmont forests in North Carolina, USA. The effects of environmental variables on individual‐level traits and community composition were evaluated using linear mixed models and constrained ordination (RDA). In general, traits and community composition responded weakly to environmental variables and trait variation within taxa was high. Cortex thickness exhibited the strongest response, such that individuals with thicker cortices were found in samples experiencing lower humidity and higher light levels. Overall, gradients of humidity, light and temperature were not strong environmental filters that caused large changes in community composition. This was probably due to phenotypic variability within taxa that enabled species to persist across the full range of environmental conditions measured. Thus, humidity affected the phenotype of individuals, but did not limit species distributions or alter community composition at the scale of branches within trees. Community and trait responses were primarily associated with site‐level differences in humidity, suggesting that in these forests landscape‐scale climatic gradients may be stronger drivers of epiphyte community assembly than intra‐canopy environmental gradients.
Limitations of PCR‐based molecular markers to identify male‐sterile and maintainer plants from Indian onion (Allium cepa L.) populations
Authors: Khar Anil , Saini Navinder
Published: May 2016

The main aim of this study was to validate PCR markers for determining cytoplasm and genotypes at the Ms locus in short‐day onion. Three cytoplasmic (OSN, MKFR and accD) and four nuclear (OPT, jnurf13, AcSKP1 and AcPMS1) markers were employed. Sel. 121‐1 had 100% S cytoplasm, whereas Sel. 121‐2, ‘Pusa Red’ and ‘Pusa Madhavi’ had 88%, 33% and 17% S cytoplasm, respectively. ‘Early Grano’ and ‘Pusa Riddhi’ did not possess S cytoplasm. Observations in 33 commercial varieties revealed two with sterile (S) cytoplasm. Nuclear markers were not found in linkage disequilibrium with the Ms locus, and the constitution of Ms alleles by OPT was different from other three markers, which were in conformity with each other. The other three markers predicted that most of the plants should be homozygous recessive. Anther colour also did not confirm the sterility status. It can be concluded that accD may be used for cytoplasm determination based on the ease of its use. For the Ms locus tagging, more markers are needed to be evaluated to isolate maintainer lines from open‐pollinated populations.
Role of deposit‐feeding sea cucumbers in integrated multitrophic aquaculture: progress, problems, potential and future challenges
Authors: Zamora Leonardo Nicolas , Yuan Xiutang , Carton Alexander Guy , Slater Matthew James
Published: May 2016

There is significant commercial and research interest in the application of sea cucumbers as nutrient recyclers and processors of particulate waste in polyculture or integrated multitrophic aquaculture (IMTA) systems. The following article reviews examples of existing IMTA systems operating with sea cucumbers, and details the role and effect of several sea cucumber species in experimental and pilot IMTA systems worldwide. Historical observations and quantification of impacts of sea cucumber deposit‐feeding and locomotion are examined, as is the development and testing of concepts for the application of sea cucumbers in sediment remediation and site recovery. The extension of applied IMTA systems is reported, from basic piloting through to economically viable farming systems operating at commercial scales. The near‐global recognition of the ecological and economic value of deposit‐feeding sea cucumbers in IMTA applications within existing and developing aquaculture industries is discussed. Predictions and recommendations are offered for optimal development of sea cucumber IMTA globally. Future directions within the industry are indicated, and key areas of ecological, biological and commercial concern are highlighted to be kept in mind and addressed in a precautionary manner as the industry develops.
Reduced transforming growth factor β1 (TGF‐β1) in the repair of airway epithelial cells of children with asthma
Authors: Ling Kak‐Ming , Sutanto Erika N. , Iosifidis Thomas , Kicic‐Starcevich Elizabeth , Looi Kevin , Garratt Luke W. , Martinovich Kelly M. , Lannigan Francis J. , Knight Darryl A. , Stick Stephen M. , Kicic Anthony
Published: May 2016

Background and objective

Evidence into the role of TGF‐β1 in airway epithelial repair in asthma is still controversial. This study tested the hypothesis that the reduced TGF‐β1 levels previously observed in paediatric asthmatic airway epithelial cells directly contribute to the dysregulated repair seen in these cells.

Methods

Primary airway epithelial cells (pAEC) from children with asthma (n = 16) and non‐asthmatic subjects (n = 20) were isolated, and subcultured for investigation of TGF‐β1 gene and protein via quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), respectively. Expression of other associated genes such as integrins αvβ6, αvβ8 and MT1‐MMP were also tested. Small interfering RNA (siRNA) was employed to assess the role of TGF‐β1 during wound repair.

Results

TGF‐β1 gene and protein expression were significantly downregulated in asthmatic pAEC over the course of repair, compared with cells from non‐asthmatic children. Messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of TGF‐β1 was also directly implicated in non‐asthmatic and asthmatic pAEC proliferation over their quiescent counterparts. Small interfering RNA‐mediated knockdown of TGF‐β1 compromised repair in non‐asthmatic pAEC and exacerbated the dysregulated repair seen in asthmatic pAEC. Expression of major TGF‐β1 activators of epithelial cells, integrin αvβ6 and αvβ8 was also measured and there was no difference in αvβ6 gene expression between the two cohorts. Although integrin αvβ8 gene expression was significantly higher in asthmatic pAEC, the expression of MT1‐MMP (MMP14) which facilitates the αvβ8 mediated TGF‐β1 activation was significantly downregulated.

Conclusion

Our data has highlighted the importance of TGF‐β1 in pAEC wound repair in vitro. The significantly lower levels seen in asthmatic pAEC subsequently contributes to the dysregulated repair observed in these cells.
If they don't degrade can indwelling pleural catheters evolve?
Authors: Akulian Jason A. , Yarmus Lonny
Published: May 2016

See article, page 939
Effect of Different Teaching Techniques on the Acquisition of Grammatical Gender by Beginning German Second Language Learners
Authors: Arzt Jessica , Kost Claudia
Published: May 2016

The grammatical gender of German nouns continues to pose a challenge to second language learners. Following from a connectionist framework, this study explores the effect of two input enhancement techniques, color‐coding and gendered actors, on the learning of grammatical gender by beginning learners of German during a vocabulary acquisition activity. Results on an immediate post‐test show no significant differences between conditions. In the delayed post‐test, however, the control group experienced a significant decrease in accurate gender assignment of the target items, while the gendered actor group displayed a non‐significant loss in scores, and the color‐coding group actually displayed slightly better scores compared to the immediate post‐test. These results suggest that color‐coding might be the most effective, while also the least work‐intensive, technique for instructors to implement. Further pedagogical implications resulting from this study are discussed.
Predictors of early breastfeeding cessation among HIV‐infected women in Botswana
Authors: Ogwu Anthony , Moyo Sikhulile , Powis Kathleen , Asmelash Aida , Lockman Shahin , Moffat Claire , Leidner Jean , Makhema Joseph , Essex Max , Shapiro Roger
Published: May 2016

Objective

Infants born to HIV‐infected women receiving antiretroviral treatment (ART) can be breastfed through at least 6 months with very low risk of HIV acquisition. We aimed to identify demographic and cultural factors that may influence mothers' willingness to breastfeed for the recommended duration.

Methods

We evaluated factors associated with early cessation of breastfeeding (i.e. before 5 months post‐partum) in a randomized clinical trial evaluating different ART regimens used for prevention of mother‐to‐child transmission during breastfeeding in Botswana. Univariate and multivariable Cox regressions were used to describe predictors of early exclusive BF cessation.

Results

Among 677 women who started breastfeeding, the median time to breastfeeding cessation was 178 days (IQR 150–181) and 25.1% weaned early. In multivariable analysis, urban location (aHR = 1.86 95%CI 1.27–2.73; P = 0.002), salaried employment or being a student (aHR = 2.78 95% CI 1.63–4.75; P < 0.001) and infant hospitalisation before weaning (aHR = 2.04 95% CI 1.21–3.45; P = 0.008) were independently and significantly associated with early BF cessation.

Conclusions

Improved support for breastfeeding among employed mothers, especially in urban settings, may allow HIV‐infected women who are receiving ART prophylaxis to breastfeed longer.
Nonlinear Thermomechanical Behavior of Functionally Graded Material Cylindrical/Hyperbolic/Elliptical Shell Panel With Temperature-Dependent and Temperature-Independent Properties
Authors: Kar V. R. , Panda S. K.
Published: May 2016

In this article, the nonlinear bending behavior of functionally graded (FG) curved (cylindrical, hyperbolic, and elliptical) panel is investigated under combined thermomechanical loading. In this study, two temperature fields (uniform and linear) across the thickness of shell panel are considered. The panel model is developed mathematically using higher-order shear deformation midplane kinematics with Green–Lagrange-type nonlinear strains. The individual constituents of functionally graded material (FGM) are assumed to be temperature-dependent (TD) and graded continuously using the power-law distribution. The effective material properties of FG shell panel are evaluated based on Voigt's micromechanical model. The governing equation of the panel structure is obtained using the variational principle and discretized through suitable finite-element (FE) steps. A direct iterative method is employed to compute the desired responses of the curved panel structure. The efficacy of the present nonlinear model has been shown by comparing the responses with those available published literature and commercial FE tool ansys. Finally, the model has been extended to examine the effect of various parameters (volume fractions, temperature, thickness ratios, curvature ratios, aspect ratios, and support conditions) on the nonlinear bending behavior of curved FG panel by solving wide variety of numerical illustrations.
Eliciting the most prominent perceived differences between microphones
Authors: Pearce Andy , Brookes Tim , Dewhirst Martin , Mason Russell
Published: May 2016

The attributes contributing to the differences perceived between microphones (when auditioning recordings made with those microphones) are not clear from previous research. Consideration of technical specifications and expert opinions indicated that recording five programme items with eight studio and two microelectromechanical system microphones could allow determination of the attributes related to the most prominent inter-microphone differences. Pairwise listening comparisons between the resulting 50 recordings, followed by multi-dimensional scaling analysis, revealed up to 5 salient dimensions per programme item; 17 corresponding pairs of recordings were selected exemplifying the differences across those dimensions. Direct elicitation and panel discussions on the 17 pairs identified a hierarchy of 40 perceptual attributes. An attribute contribution experiment on the 31 lowest-level attributes in the hierarchy allowed them to be ordered by degree of contribution and showed brightness, harshness, and clarity to always contribute highly to perceived inter-microphone differences. This work enables the future development of objective models to predict these important attributes.
Indexing head movement during speech production using optical markers
Authors: Roon Kevin D. , Dawson Katherine M. , Tiede Mark K. , Whalen D. H.
Published: May 2016

Optical marker tracking integrated with electromagnetic articulometry was used to assess the movement extent of various points on (a) forehead skin and (b) points on a head-mounted apparatus, relative to a fixed point just above the upper incisors, and to compare the accuracy of the two different approaches to indexing head position during speech production. Both methods can provide a satisfactory index of head position. If skin-affixed markers are used, a minimum of 4 is recommended. Locations for optimal marker placement are identified.
Papers of note in
Science
Authors: VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: May 2016

This week’s articles highlight drug resistance in glioma, HIV-1 immunotherapy, synaptic development, the bacterial starvation response, and negative cooperativity in signaling networks.
A bad time of day to get an infection
Authors: Gough Nancy R.
Published: May 2016

When an animal becomes infected determines mortality.
Unwanted guests: Bacterial microbiome in COPD
Authors: Bhattacharya Mallar
Published: May 2016

The bacterial microbiome promotes IL-17A–driven inflammation in a mouse model of COPD.
Hepatic macrophages in liver fibrosis: pathogenesis and potential therapeutic targets
Authors: Li Hai , You Hong , Fan Xu , Jia Jidong
Published: May 2016

Hepatic macrophages account for the largest non-parenchymal cell population in the liver. Recent studies have found that hepatic macrophages have different functions in different stages of experimental liver fibrosis. Some studies found that there are different types of hepatic macrophages in the liver, although others have suggested that hepatic macrophages could switch to different phenotypes in different environments. Many studies demonstrated that while hepatic macrophages promoted fibrosis through the recruitment of proinflammatory immune cells, and the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines in the early stages, these also promoted the resolution of hepatic fibrosis through the secretion of matrix metalloproteinases in the late stages. This article will review the current role played by hepatic macrophages in liver fibrosis and the potential therapeutic targets that modulate hepatic macrophages.
Built Environment and Active Transport to School (BEATS) Study: protocol for a cross-sectional study
Authors: Mandic Sandra , Williams John , Moore Antoni , Hopkins Debbie , Flaherty Charlotte , Wilson Gordon , García Bengoechea Enrique , Spence John C
Published: May 2016

Introduction

Active transport to school (ATS) is a convenient way to increase physical activity and undertake an environmentally sustainable travel practice. The Built Environment and Active Transport to School (BEATS) Study examines ATS in adolescents in Dunedin, New Zealand, using ecological models for active transport that account for individual, social, environmental and policy factors. The study objectives are to: (1) understand the reasons behind adolescents and their parents' choice of transport mode to school; (2) examine the interaction between the transport choices, built environment, physical activity and weight status in adolescents; and (3) identify policies that promote or hinder ATS in adolescents.

Methods and analysis

The study will use a mixed-method approach incorporating both quantitative (surveys, anthropometry, accelerometers, Geographic Information System (GIS) analysis, mapping) and qualitative methods (focus groups, interviews) to gather data from students, parents, teachers and school principals. The core data will include accelerometer-measured physical activity, anthropometry, GIS measures of the built environment and the use of maps indicating route to school (students)/work (parents) and perceived safe/unsafe areas along the route. To provide comprehensive data for understanding how to change the infrastructure to support ATS, the study will also examine complementary variables such as individual, family and social factors, including student and parental perceptions of walking and cycling to school, parental perceptions of different modes of transport to school, perceptions of the neighbourhood environment, route to school (students)/work (parents), perceptions of driving, use of information communication technology, reasons for choosing a particular school and student and parental physical activity habits, screen time and weight status. The study has achieved a 100% school recruitment rate (12 secondary schools).

Ethics and dissemination

The study has been approved by the University of Otago Ethics Committee. The results will be actively disseminated through reports and presentations to stakeholders, symposiums and scientific publications.