bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Logging impacts on avian species richness and composition differ across latitudes and foraging and breeding habitat preferences
Authors: LaManna Joseph A. , Martin Thomas E.
Published: October 2016

Understanding the causes underlying changes in species diversity is a fundamental pursuit of ecology. Animal species richness and composition often change with decreased forest structural complexity associated with logging. Yet differences in latitude and forest type may strongly influence how species diversity responds to logging. We performed a meta‐analysis of logging effects on local species richness and composition of birds across the world and assessed responses by different guilds (nesting strata, foraging strata, diet, and body size). This approach allowed identification of species attributes that might underlie responses to this anthropogenic disturbance. We only examined studies that allowed forests to regrow naturally following logging, and accounted for logging intensity, spatial extent, successional regrowth after logging, and the change in species composition expected due to random assembly from regional species pools. Selective logging in the tropics and clearcut logging in temperate latitudes caused loss of species from nearly all forest strata (ground to canopy), leading to substantial declines in species richness (up to 27% of species). Few species were lost or gained following any intensity of logging in lower‐latitude temperate forests, but the relative abundances of these species changed substantially. Selective logging at higher‐temperate latitudes generally replaced late‐successional specialists with early‐successional specialists, leading to no net changes in species richness but large changes in species composition. Removing less basal area during logging mitigated the loss of avian species from all forests and, in some cases, increased diversity in temperate forests. This meta‐analysis provides insights into the important role of habitat specialization in determining differential responses of animal communities to logging across tropical and temperate latitudes.
Overt and Relational Victimization: A Meta‐Analytic Review of Their Overlap and Associations With Social–Psychological Adjustment
Authors: Casper Deborah M. , Card Noel A.
Published: October 2016

This meta‐analytic review includes 135 studies, representing 17 countries, of child and adolescent (ages 4–17) samples of overt and relational peer victimization and examines the magnitude of overlap between forms of victimization and associations with five social–psychological adjustment indices. Results indicate a strong intercorrelation between forms of victimization ( = .72). No gender difference with regard to relational victimization was found, but boys were slightly higher in overt victimization. Overt victimization is more strongly associated with overt aggression; relational victimization is more strongly related to internalizing problems, lower levels of received prosocial behavior from peers, and relational aggression. Both forms are related to externalizing problems. Age and method of assessment were explored as potential sources of variability in effect sizes.
Toward a genetic understanding of dental fear: evidence of heritability
Authors: Randall Cameron L. , Shaffer John R. , McNeil Daniel W. , Crout Richard J. , Weyant Robert J. , Marazita Mary L.
Published: October 2016

Objectives

Dental fear is a prevalent problem that impacts dental treatment‐seeking behavior and thus oral, systemic, and psychological health. Among other important predictors, fear of pain has been shown to be a critical component of dental fear. While learning history (id est, past experience) is known to shape development and maintenance of dental fear and fear of pain, minimal work has addressed genetic etiological variables for these healthcare‐related anxieties. With the aim of coming to a more complete conceptualization of dental fear, this study assessed the heritability of dental fear and fear of pain and elucidated the role of genetics in the relation between the constructs.

Methods

Participants (n= 1370; 827 female), aged 11–74 years (M= 29.2,SD= 12.2), in a family‐based cohort study completed measures of dental fear and fear of pain. Heritability and genetic correlation were estimated using likelihood‐based methods under the variance components framework.

Results

Dental fear was 30% heritable (P< 0.001) and fear of pain was 34% heritable (P< 0.001). Notably, there was substantial genetic correlation between dental fear and fear of pain, ρG= 0.67, suggesting they are genetically related, but likely are distinct phenotypes.

Conclusions

It is clear that, in addition to environmental factors, genetic influences are important in the etiology of dental fear and anxiety and should be considered in future studies of fear and anxiety associated with dental treatment and, potentially, interventions aimed at reducing distress that is a barrier to dental treatment utilization.
Wound temperature profiles of coaxial mini‐incision versus sleeveless microincision phacoemulsification
Authors: Belkin Avner , Abulafia Adi , Michaeli Adi , Ofir Shay , Assia Ehud I
Published: October 2016

Background

Temperature profiles at the corneal wound of coaxial mini‐incision (2.4 mm) cataract surgery and sleeveless microincision (1.1 mm) cataract surgery were compared.

Design

Prospective, controlled, paired‐eye clinical trial conducted in a tertiary care hospital.

Participants

Twenty patients with mild‐to‐moderate bilateral nuclear sclerotic cataract.

Methods

Twenty patients underwent bilateral cataract surgery within a 1‐month period. One eye was operated on by conventional coaxial mini‐incision (2.4 mm) phacoemulsification. The second eye underwent microincision surgery by using a naked phacoemulsification tip and a specialized 19‐gauge anterior chamber maintainer as the sole fluid source (three‐port microincision cataract surgery technique). Patients had moderate bilateral cataracts with no other anterior segment pathology. Temperature at the corneal wound was constantly recorded by using infrared thermal imaging.

Main Outcome Measures

Temperatures at the corneal wound.

Results

Mean temperatures at the corneal surgical wound were not significantly different between the coaxial and sleeveless groups (31.1 °C ± 2.3 vs. 31.0 °C ± 2. 0; P = 0.89). There was also no difference in maximum temperatures reached during phaco‐emulsification. Temperatures did not rise above 40 °C during any surgery, and there were no corneal burns. Final visual acuity and intraoperative and postoperative complication rates were similar between the two groups.

Conclusions

The temperature profile at the surgical wound using a microincisional sleeveless phacoemulsification technique is comparable with that of the conventional coaxial mini‐incision method.
The Impact of Market Intervention on Quota Mobility: The Case of the Ontario Dairy Industry
Authors: Elskamp Rebecca , Hailu Getu
Published: October 2016

We examine the relationship between farm‐level scale efficiency and quota purchases in the Ontario dairy quota market before and after the implementation of a progressive transfer assessment policy and a price cap policy. We find that scale efficiency has a positive effect on net quota purchases and that the two regulations slowed down this effect. The largest deterrent in the movement of quota from less efficient to more efficient producers occurred after the implementation of the capital asset pricing policy. If the capital asset pricing policy remains in effect, it will likely take a longer time to achieve an efficient allocation of quota across producers in the industry.

Nous examinons la relation entre l'efficience d'échelle agricole et les achats de quota au sein du marché des quotas laitiers ontariens, avant et après l'implantation d'une politique d'évaluation progressive de transfert, et d'une autre de plafonnement des prix. Nous avançons que l'efficience d'échelle a un effet positif sur les achats nets de quota et que les deux politiques ont freiné cet effet. La plus grande dissuasion au sein du mouvement des quotas de producteurs moins efficients vers ceux qui le sont plus, survient après le plafonnement des prix. Si la politique de plafonnement des prix demeure en vigueur, il faudra attendre encore longtemps avant de réussir une allocation efficiente des quotas parmi les producteurs de l'industrie.
Is colorectal surgery beyond the age of 80 still feasible with acceptable mortality? An analysis of the predictive value of CR‐POSSUM and life expectancy after hospital discharge
Authors: de Buck van Overstraeten A. , Stijns J. , Laenen A. , Fieuws S. , Wolthuis A. M. , D'Hoore A.
Published: October 2016

Aim

Increased morbidity and mortality could mitigate the positive effect of surgery in elderly patients undergoing colorectal resections. This retrospective study aims to describe early morbidity and mortality together with long‐term survival in octogenarians and nonagenarians undergoing colorectal surgery. Predictors for in‐hospital mortality are identified. The predictive value of CR‐POSSUM is assessed.

Method

Data on consecutive patients 80 years old or more undergoing a colorectal resection in our centre from 2004 until 2010 were analysed.

Results

Some 286 patients [median age 84 years; interquartile range (IQR) 81.6–86.1; 133 men, 47%] underwent a colorectal resection. Median follow‐up was 32 months (IQR 14.5–51.2). Two hundred and fifty‐eight patients (90%) were operated on for malignancy. Only 64 patients (22.4%) underwent a laparoscopic procedure. Overall median hospital stay was 12 days (IQR 9.0–20.0) and in‐hospital mortality was 9.4%. Seventy‐six per cent (n = 170) of patients could return home after discharge. The 1‐year survival rate was 78.6% (95% CI 73.8–82.7). Median CR‐POSSUM for in‐hospital mortality was 12.6% (IQR 11.9–21.0). The concordance probability estimate was 0.668 (95% CI 0.609–0.728), reflecting a moderate predictive capacity of CR‐POSSUM. Once patients had been discharged from hospital, life expectancy was similar to that of the Belgian general population.

Conclusion

Colorectal surgery in octogenarians and nonagenarians resulted in a considerable in‐hospital mortality of about 9%. One‐year mortality added an additional 12%, which is in concordance with the overall life expectancy at that age.
p16 immunostaining in keratinocytic neoplasia in organ transplant recipients: Bowen's disease shows a characteristic pattern
Authors: Genders Roel E. , Beck Samuel , Bouwes Bavinck Jan Nico , van den Munckhof Henk A.M. , Kouwenhoven Stijn T.P. , de Koning Maurits N.C. , de Gruijl Frank R. , Jenkins David , Willemze Rein , Quint Koen D.
Published: October 2016

Background

For selecting therapy, it is important to distinguish different types of keratinocytic neoplasia. It is sometimes difficult to make histopathologic diagnosis, especially in organ transplant recipients (OTR) who develop numerous lesions.

Methods

To investigate p16 immunostaining in different types of keratinocytic neoplasia in OTR, we studied 59 actinic keratoses (AK), 51 Bowen' s disease (BD), 63 squamous cell carcinomas (SCC), 16 benign keratotic lesions (BKL) from 31 OTR patients and 25 controls (eczema and psoriasis). Tissue sections were stained for H&E and p16. We scored intensity, proportion and distribution of p16 positive lesional cells.

Results

In 19% of AK, 92% of BD, 35% of SCC and 12% of BKL more than 15% of lesional cells were p16‐positive. In 16% of AK, 80% of BD, 18% of SCC and 13% of BKL strong p16 staining was observed. BKL, AK and SCC showed focal and patchy staining, BD showed diffuse pattern with strong staining of all atypical cells. Sparing of the basal layer was predominantly seen in BD. No control specimen showed p16‐overexpression.

Conclusions

p16 immunostaining shows a characteristic pattern in BD, but not in AK, SCC and BKL. It appears useful in recognizing BD, but not in differentiating between other keratinocytic neoplasia.
The influence of habitat disturbance on genetic structure and reproductive strategies within stands of native and non‐native Phragmites australis (common reed)
Authors: Fant Jeremie B. , Price Amy L. , Larkin Daniel J.
Published: October 2016

Aim

A surprising finding of genetic studies of Phragmites australis is that native populations, whether in Europe or North America, are characterized by lower genetic diversity than non‐native populations. What is not clear is whether higher diversity within invasive stands results from disturbance facilitating sexual reproduction or whether individuals with higher diversity have greater invasion potential.

Location

Upper Midwest, United States, North America.

Methods

To answer this question, we investigated genetic structure of native and non‐native P. australis stands at multiple spatial scales and under differing levels of anthropogenic disturbance. Our goals were to assess the influence of habitat disturbance on genetic structure and determine whether patterns differed in native versus non‐native stands. We also screened for hybrid genotypes, which have not been reported from this region.

Results

When controlling for disturbance, native and non‐native P. australis exhibited relatively similar within‐site genetic diversity and degrees of clonal growth, suggesting that their spread is comparably reliant on clonal versus sexual dispersal. In all cases, discrete clumps of P. australis were composed of multiple, closely related genotypes, indicating seed heads as the key dispersal units. The genetic structure of P. australis stands did not differ with disturbance; however, only non‐native P. australis was found in highly disturbed anthropogenic habitats. Native P. australis stands exhibited lower genetic diversity overall, lower sexual reproduction in less disturbed sites and greater isolation by distance and differentiation among sites, which is consistent with its longer residence time in this region. We found no evidence of hybrid genotypes, despite native and non‐native stands sometimes co‐occurring.

Main conclusions

Our results suggest that invasion by non‐native P. australis is sporadic, associated with disturbance and involves closely related individuals, likely derived from a single seed head. The ability of the non‐native lineage to exploit a variety of anthropogenic habitats helps to explain its invasiveness.
Glucose challenge test screening for prediabetes and early diabetes
Authors: Jackson S. L. , Safo S. E. , Staimez L. R. , Olson D. E. , Narayan K. M. V. , Long Q. , Lipscomb J. , Rhee M. K. , Wilson P. W. F. , Tomolo A. M. , Phillips L. S.
Published: October 2016

Aims

To test the hypothesis that a 50‐g oral glucose challenge test with 1‐h glucose measurement would have superior performance compared with other opportunistic screening methods.

Methods

In this prospective study in a Veterans Health Administration primary care clinic, the following test performances, measured by area under receiver‐operating characteristic curves, were compared: 50‐g oral glucose challenge test; random glucose; and HbA1c level, using a 75‐g oral glucose tolerance test as the ‘gold standard’.

Results

The study population was comprised of 1535 people (mean age 56 years, BMI 30.3 kg/m2, 94% men, 74% black). By oral glucose tolerance test criteria, diabetes was present in 10% and high‐risk prediabetes was present in 22% of participants. The plasma glucose challenge test provided area under receiver‐operating characteristic curves of 0.85 (95% CI 0.78–0.91) to detect diabetes and 0.76 (95% CI 0.72–0.80) to detect high‐risk dysglycaemia (diabetes or high‐risk prediabetes), while area under receiver‐operating characteristic curves for the capillary glucose challenge test were 0.82 (95% CI 0.75–0.89) and 0.73 (95% CI 0.69–0.77) for diabetes and high‐risk dysglycaemia, respectively. Random glucose performed less well [plasma: 0.76 (95% CI 0.69–0.82) and 0.66 (95% CI 0.62–0.71), respectively; capillary: 0.72 (95% CI 0.65–0.80) and 0.64 (95% CI 0.59–0.68), respectively], and HbA1c performed even less well [0.67 (95% CI 0.57–0.76) and 0.63 (95% CI 0.58–0.68), respectively]. The cost of identifying one case of high‐risk dysglycaemia with a plasma glucose challenge test would be $42 from a Veterans Health Administration perspective, and $55 from a US Medicare perspective.

Conclusions

Glucose challenge test screening, followed, if abnormal, by an oral glucose tolerance test, would be convenient and more accurate than other opportunistic tests. Use of glucose challenge test screening could improve management by permitting earlier therapy.
Basal insulin peglispro: Overview of a novel long‐acting insulin with reduced peripheral effect resulting in a hepato‐preferential action
Authors: Jacober S. J. , Prince M. J. , Beals J. M. , Hartman M. L. , Qu Y. , Linnebjerg H. , Garhyan P. , Haupt A.
Published: October 2016

Basal insulin peglispro (BIL) is a novel basal insulin with a flat, prolonged activity profile. BIL has been demonstrated in a dog model, in healthy men and in patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D) to have significant hepato‐preferential action resulting from reduced peripheral activity. In the IMAGINE‐Phase 3 clinical trial program, more than 6000 patients were included, of whom ~3900 received BIL. Of the 7 pivotal IMAGINE trials, 3 studies were double‐blinded and 3 were in T1D patients. BIL consistently demonstrated a greater HbA1c reduction, less glycaemic variability and a clinically relevant reduction in the rates of nocturnal hypoglycaemia across comparator [glargine and isophane insulin (NPH)] studies. Trials using basal/bolus regimens had higher rates of total hypoglycaemia with BIL due to higher rates of daytime hypoglycaemia. Severe hypoglycaemia rates were similar to comparator among both patients with T1D or type 2 diabetes (T2D). T1D patients lost weight compared with glargine (GL). Patients with T2D tended to gain less weight with BIL than with glargine. Compared to glargine, BIL was associated with higher liver fat, triglycerides and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels, including a higher frequency of elevation of ALT ≥3 times the upper limit of normal, but without severe, acute drug‐induced liver injury. Injection site reactions, primarily lipohypertrophy, were more frequent with BIL. In conclusion, BIL demonstrated better glycaemic control with reduced glucose variability and nocturnal hypoglycaemia but higher triglycerides, ALT and liver fat relative to conventional comparator insulin. The hepato‐preferential action of BIL with reduced peripheral activity may account for these findings.
How valuable is inpatient electroencephalogram for medical decision‐making?
Authors: Theitler Jacques , Dassa Daniella , Gandelman‐Marton Revital
Published: October 2016

Background

The electroencephalogram (EEG) can support the diagnosis of epilepsy, diagnose nonconvulsive status epilepticus and aid in the classification of epileptic seizures. Its contribution to the diagnosis of other medical conditions or to decision‐making in other clinical situations was not established. Practically, EEG laboratories frequently encounter EEG referrals that are not based on current recommendations.

Objectives

To assess the value of inpatient EEG in medical decision‐making.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the inpatient computerized medical information management system and the EEG laboratory computerized database for all adult inpatient standard, sleep‐deprived and bedside EEGs performed during a one‐year period. Change in diagnosis and/or treatment and the clinical justification for ordering an EEG recording were determined.

Results

The study group included 584 patients, 313 (54%) men, aged 55·5 ± 20·8 years (range 18–95 years). The EEG was clinically justified in 372 (63·7%) and led to change in diagnosis and/or treatment in 47 (8%) patients. These patients were significantly more likely to be admitted to the neurology department (P = 0·033), have an admission and discharge diagnosis of seizure or epilepsy (P = 0·0001), have a clinically justified EEG (P = 0·0001) and have an EEG recording with electrographic seizures (P = 0·0001), interictal epileptiform discharges (P = 0·0001) and background abnormalities (P = 0·003).

Conclusions

Inpatient EEG can mostly contribute to diagnosis and treatment in patients with a seizure or epilepsy. An informed use of the EEG can increase its yield and reduce the number of unnecessary referrals, thus shortening waiting time and enabling earlier diagnosis and treatment in yet undiagnosed patients.
VTA dopamine neuron plasticity – the unusual suspects
Authors: Xin Wendy , Edwards Nicholas , Bonci Antonello
Published: October 2016

Dopamine neurons in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) are involved in a variety of physiological and pathological conditions, ranging from motivated behaviours to substance use disorders. While many studies have shown that these neurons can express plasticity at excitatory and inhibitory synapses, little is known about how inhibitory inputs and glial activity shape the output of DA neurons and therefore, merit greater discussion. In this review, we will attempt to fill in a bit more of the puzzle, with a focus on inhibitory transmission and astrocyte function. We summarize the findings within the VTA as well as observations made in other brain regions that have important implications for plasticity in general and should be considered in the context of DA neuron plasticity.
Leadership, Management and the Welsh Language
Authors: Schedlitzki Doris , Edwards Gareth , While Gethin
Published: October 2016

Adopting a multilingual perspective, this empirical paper explores the varied use and meanings of referents of leadership and management among 24 Welsh senior managers. We argue the importance of recognizing the linguistic imperialism of the English language – and its dominant leadership discourse of the heroic individual leader – over locally signified referents of leadership and management in other languages and discourses. At present, the lexical item leadership lacks evaluation of its relevance and meaning within other languages and multilingual contexts. We add to this gap through a discussion of research that analyses 24 Welsh senior managers’ reflections on referents of leadership and management and their varied meanings in their two official workplace languages, namely, Welsh and English. Based on the findings, we explore linguistic power dynamics represented in their reflections on this language diverse work setting and conclude with implications for the practice of leadership and management.
Time‐of‐Day Discriminative Learning: Contrasting the Use of Spatial Compared to Feature Information in Homing Pigeons (Columba livia)
Authors: Sizemore Brittany A. , Bingman Verner P.
Published: October 2016

This study examined time‐of‐day associative learning to either spatial or feature information in homing pigeons in an open‐field, laboratory setting. Homing pigeons are well known for their navigational abilities and generally have been shown to rely more heavily on spatial than nonspatial cues in recognizing a goal. However, during goal localization, homing pigeons also successfully use nonspatial, feature information. Homing pigeons were divided into two groups and were trained to locate two time‐of‐day dependent, food reward sites using either discriminative spatial or feature information. Because of the importance of the hippocampus in controlling avian memory, we hypothesized that homing pigeons trained with spatial cues would be superior in learning the time‐of‐day discrimination compared to the pigeons trained with feature cues. Indeed, homing pigeons that were trained with spatial information outperformed the pigeons trained with feature information in learning the time‐of‐day discrimination task.
The FOCUS Family Resilience Program: An Innovative Family Intervention for Trauma and Loss
Authors: Saltzman William R.
Published: October 2016

This article describes the core principles and components of the FOCUS Program, a brief intervention for families contending with single or multiple trauma or loss events. It has been administered nationally to thousands of military family members since 2008 and has been implemented in a wide range of civilian community, medical, clinical, and school settings. Developed by a team from the UCLA and Harvard Medical Schools, the FOCUS Program provides a structured approach for joining with traditional and nontraditional families, crafting shared goals, and then working with parents, children, and the entire family to build communication, make meaning out of traumatic experiences, and practice specific skills that support family resilience. Through a narrative sharing process, each family member tells his or her story and constructs a timeline that graphically captures the experience and provides a platform for family discussions on points of convergence and divergence. This narrative sharing process is first done with the parents and then the children and then the family as a whole. The aim is to build perspective‐taking skills and mutual understanding, to reduce distortions and misattributions, and to bridge estrangement between family members. Previous studies have confirmed that families participating in this brief program report reductions in distress and symptomatic behaviors for both parents and children and increases in child pro‐social behaviors and family resilient processes.
Observed Mother– and Father–Child Interaction Differences in Families with Medically Assisted Reproduction‐Conceived Twins and Singletons
Authors: Anderson Kayla N. , Rueter Martha A. , Connor Jennifer J. , Koh Bibiana D.
Published: October 2016

Increased medically assisted reproduction (MAR) use to treat infertility has resulted in a growing twin birth rate. Little is known about parent–child relationships for twin relative to singleton children in middle childhood. This study fills this gap by examining parent–child relationships in 57 families with eighty 6‐ to 12‐year‐old MAR twin and singleton children using observational data (warm and supportive communication, control, and hostility). Nested ANCOVAs indicate that while mothers exhibit similar interactional behaviors toward twins and singletons, fathers have less optimum behaviors toward twins relative to singletons. Twins displayed less engaged behavior with mothers and fathers relative to singletons. Given the vitality of parent–child relationships for family and child adjustment, future studies should examine determinants and outcomes of twin–singleton relationship differences to bolster twins’ and their families’ functioning.
A Comparison of the Efficacy of Liquidity, Momentum, Size and Book‐to‐Market Value Factors in Equity Pricing on a Heterogeneous Sample: Evidence from Asia
Authors: Hearn Bruce
Published: October 2016

This paper compares the size and book‐to‐market value factors of Fama and French (1993) alongside Momentum of Jagadeesh and Titman () with two Liu () liquidity factors formed from 1 year rebalancing and 1 month rebalancing respectively. A heterogeneous and comprehensive sample of the top blue chip stocks of all national Asian equity markets with further differentiation undertaken between sub samples formed for Japan only and Asia excluding Japan for period January 2000 to August 2014. Our empirical results suggest that multifactor time invariant pricing models based on augmented capital asset pricing model (CAPM) framework are ineffective in explaining the cross section of stock returns in the presence of significant inter and intra‐market segmentation. However an alternative model specification based on a time varying parameter specification and using same sets of factors yields significant enhancements in explaining cross section of stock returns across universe. We find that momentum factor largely lacks significance while a time varying two factor model, based on CAPM plus liquidity factor, is optimal. The liquidity factor being that of Liu (2006) and annually rebalanced. Our findings are important for investment managers seeking appropriate factors and modelling techniques to hedge against risks as well as firm's financial managers seeking to reduce costs of equity capital.
Predicting overlap between drift gillnet fishing and leatherback turtle habitat in the California Current Ecosystem
Authors: Eguchi Tomoharu , Benson Scott R. , Foley David G. , Forney Karin A.
Published: October 2016

Concern over bycatch of protected species has become a key factor in shaping fisheries management decisions. In 2001, the National Marine Fisheries Service established an annual closure of a large mesh drift gillnet fishery targeting swordfish from central Oregon to central California between August 15 and November 15 because of concerns of bycatch of endangered leatherback turtles (the Pacific Leatherback Conservation Area,PLCA). The spatio‐temporal constraints of thePLCAwere developed to encompass nearly all previously observed leatherback turtle bycatch events in the fishery. ThePLCAhas been effective at reducing bycatch of leatherback turtles but has reduced fishing opportunities. In this study, we examined whether the timing of the currentPLCAclosure is optimal for leatherback turtle conservation, by developing statistical models of leatherback turtle presence inside thePLCAbased on environmental variables. We also examined finer‐scale spatiotemporal patterns of potential overlap between the fishery and leatherback turtle foraging habitat using Maxent and Random Forests applied to logbook data and leatherback turtle telemetry data. Our results suggest that the temporal extent of the current static closure period is the shortest and most effective for protecting the turtles while allowing fishing during low bycatch‐risk periods. We also found that it is possible to predict foraging habitat of leatherback turtles and fishing effort using environmental variables. Identification of spatial and temporal hotspots of potential overlap between fishing effort and leatherback turtle distribution can form a basis for dynamic management approaches.
Influence of temperature and oxygen on the distribution of blue marlin (Makaira nigricans) in the Central Pacific
Authors: Carlisle Aaron B. , Kochevar Randall E. , Arostegui Martin C. , Ganong James E. , Castleton Michael , Schratwieser Jason , Block Barbara A.
Published: October 2016

The blue marlin (Makaira nigricans) is a highly migratory pelagic predator of tropical and subtropical seas. Information on the habitat use of marine species is fundamental to understanding their ecology and population dynamics and is needed to inform responsible management strategies. Using a long‐term satellite tagging data set from The International Game Fish Association Great Marlin Race, we examined habitat use and how oxygen and temperature influence the horizontal and vertical distributions of blue marlin in the Central Pacific. Blue marlin primarily occurred in warm waters (26–30°C) and exhibited a diel bimodal depth distribution across the 5‐year data record (2009–2013), with fish spending the majority of their time near the surface at night and at deeper depths during the day (25–100 m). The depth distribution of blue marlin was limited in areas where low oxygen and/or temperature conditions occur closer to the surface, with the extent of habitat compression being greatest when both oxygen and temperature were limiting. The migrations of blue marlin appeared restricted during the 2010 La Niña, when increased equatorial upwelling resulted in an extension of the cold, low oxygen waters of the cold tongue into the Central Pacific, creating a barrier to the trans‐equatorial migrations that occurred during all other tagging years. If the frequency and intensity of La Niña events increases and the oxygen minimum layer continues to expand as has been predicted under certain climate change scenarios, the migratory behavior and habitat availability of blue marlin may be impacted.
Multimodel Validity Assessment of Groundwater Flow Simulation Models Using Area Metric Approach
Authors: Aphale Omkar , Tonjes David J.
Published: October 2016

We demonstrate the application of the Area Metric developed by Ferson et al. (2008) for multimodel validity assessment. The Area Metric quantified the degree of models' replicative validity: the degree of agreement between the observed data and the corresponding simulated outputs represented as their empirical cumulative distribution functions (ECDFs). This approach was used to rank multiple representations of a case study groundwater flow model of a landfill by their Area Metric scores. A multimodel approach allows to account for uncertainties that may either be epistemic (from lack of knowledge) or aleatory (from variability inherent in the system). The Area Metric approach enables explicit incorporation of model uncertainties, epistemic as well as aleatory, into validation assessment. The proposed approach informs understanding of the collected data and that of the model domain. It avoids model overfitting to a particular system state, and in fact is a blind assessment of the models' validity: models are not adjusted, or updated, to achieve a better numerical fit. This approach assesses the degree of models' validity, in place of the typical binary model validation/invalidation process. Collectively, this increases confidence in the model's representativeness that, in turn, reduces risk to model users.
Onychocryptosis: a long‐term retrospective and comparative follow‐up study of surgical and phenol chemical matricectomy in 520 procedures
Authors: Romero‐Pérez David , Betlloch‐Mas Isabel , Encabo‐Durán Belén
Published: October 2016

Background

Onychocryptosis or ingrown toenail is a common condition for which there are several treatment options. Surgical matricectomy (SM) is the classical procedure, whereas chemical matricectomy with phenol (CMP) is the most widely used nowadays.

Objectives

This study was designed to evaluate the success rate, postoperative comfort, postoperative complications, and patient satisfaction provided by each of these procedures.

Methods

A retrospective study of all patients who underwent surgery for ingrown toenail over a 5‐year period was performed. Data used for the descriptive study and success rates were obtained from medical records. Postoperative data were collected by telephone interviews.

Results

Ingrown toenail surgery was carried out in 520 patients. SM was associated with a lower recurrence rate (8.2%) than CMP (17.8%), more pain (5.7/10 vs. 3.6/10), a higher risk for infection (15.3% vs. 2.9%), and lower cosmetic satisfaction (7.3/10 vs. 8.0/10). Overall satisfaction was similar in both procedures (8.5/10 and 8.4/10, respectively).

Conclusions

Although SM is associated with a lower recurrence rate, CMP appears to facilitate better postoperative outcomes.
Risk stratification using Bmi‐1 and Snail expression is a useful prognostic tool for patients with upper tract urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Matsumoto Hiroaki , Munemori Masaru , Shimizu Kosuke , Fujii Nakanori , Kobayashi Keita , Inoue Ryo , Yamamoto Yoshiaki , Nagao Kazuhiro , Matsuyama Hideyasu
Published: October 2016

Objectives

To investigate the expression levels of E‐cadherin, Snail, Twist and Bmi‐1 in the human upper tract urothelial carcinoma, and to assess whether these factors could be prognostic markers.

Methods

Immunohistochemistry was carried out to determine the expression of E‐cadherin, Snail, Twist and Bmi‐1 in upper tract urothelial carcinoma samples from 144 patients that underwent total nephroureterectomy between January 1995 and December 2010. The patient population had a median age of 71 years, and comprised 104 men and 40 women, with a median follow‐up period of 40 months. The prognostic value of these markers was assessed by univariate and multivariate analysis. A risk stratification analysis was carried out.

Results

Snail and Bmi‐1 expression predicted worse overall survival (P = 0.0075 and 0.0035), cancer‐specific survival (P = 0.0919 and 0.0085) and recurrence‐free survival (P = 0.0360 and 0.0817, respectively) compared with tumors that lacked Snail and Bmi‐1 expression. Additionally, clinical parameters, grade, stage and lymphovascular invasion correlated with overall survival, cancer‐specific survival and recurrence‐free survival. Multivariate analysis showed that Bmi‐1 expression was among the most significant factors in predicting cancer‐specific survival (P = 0.0333). The combination of Snail, Bmi‐1 and pathological stage was the most useful prognostic biomarker for upper tract urothelial carcinoma.

Conclusion

Risk stratification by epithelial–mesenchymal transition and cancer stem cell‐regulated genes, such as Snail and Bmi‐1, might be useful prognostic markers for upper tract urothelial carcinoma.
Human herpesvirus 8 infection contributes to a T helper 2 immune response in men from Tobago with prostate cancer
Authors: Henning Jill D , Bonachea Luis A , Bunker Clareann H , Patrick Alan L , Jenkins Frank J
Published: October 2016

Objectives

To compare the cytokine profile between human herpesvirus 8 seropositive and seronegative men with and without prostate cancer.

Methods

The study sample was obtained from the Tobago Prostate Survey, an ongoing study of prostate cancer in the Caribbean island of Tobago. Participants in the study were recruited mostly by public service announcement and by word of mouth. For analyses of circulating levels of pro‐inflammatory cytokines, participants with biopsy‐confirmed prostate cancer (n = 79) were compared with control participants (n = 87).

Results

Cytokine analyses showed a T helper 2 response with suppressed T helper 1 response in prostate cancer patients, as evidenced by significantly increased levels of interleukin‐13 and reduced levels of interleukin‐12p70. Herpesvirus 8 seropositive men showed significantly increased levels of interleukin‐13 and interleukin‐10. At logistic regression analyses, interleukin‐12p70 predicted prostate cancer in 94.4% of human herpesvirus 8 seropositive men.

Conclusions

These findings show that prostate cancer elicits an antitumor, T helper 2 response with a suppressed T helper 1 response. Human herpesvirus 8 infection results in a similar immune response supporting the hypothesis that in Tobago, human herpesvirus 8 establishes a chronic infection that can contribute to an immune response favoring the formation and survival of prostate cancer.
Unlocking the Talents‐in‐Waiting: Case Study Analysis of Chinese and Indian High‐Skilled Migrants in South Australia
Authors: Sardana Deepak , Zhu Ying , van der Veen Robert
Published: October 2016

Nations across the world and through time have used skilled migration mechanisms to boost economic growth and workforce competitiveness. However, effectively using these talents from abroad and transforming this collective human capital into valuable social capital is an on‐going challenge. This study applies a case study analysis of skilled migrants from China and India in South Australia and finds that there are multiple barriers to the successful integration of skilled migrants. These barriers tend to block the effective utilization of migrants’ skills and reduce the ability to advance social capital in the community. The study concludes by putting forward various policy recommendations to overcome these obstacles and outlines ideas for an effective application of a skilled migrant programme.
News
Authors: Tarran Brian
Published: October 2016

Privacy concerns cast shadow over Australia's 2016 Census.
Scoring Points: How Statistics Helped Change A Rugby Competition
Authors: Winchester Niven
Published: October 2016

A statistical analysis has inspired a change in how a major rugby tournament awards league points. Niven Winchester tells the story and discusses its possible implications
The Science of Salt: A Regularly Updated Systematic Review of the Implementation of Salt Reduction Interventions (November 2015 to February 2016)
Authors: Trieu Kathy , McLean Rachael , Johnson Claire , Santos Joseph Alvin , Raj Thout Sudhir , Campbell Norm RC. , Webster Jacqui
Published: October 2016

The objective of this periodic review was to identify, summarize, and appraise studies relating to the implementation of salt reduction strategies that were retrieved between November 2015 and February 2016. From the established MEDLINE search, 56 studies were identified as relevant to the implementation of salt reduction initiatives. Detailed appraisal was performed on seven studies that evaluated the impact of salt reduction interventions. While study quality varied, all had one or more risks related to bias. There was consistent evidence, from three studies, demonstrating that setting‐based structural interventions to improve the nutritional composition of foods were effective in reducing salt but mixed evidence in relation to the effectiveness of behavioral interventions. The development of an evaluation guidance framework that supports scientific rigor and external validity would aid future design and interpretation of studies evaluating salt reduction interventions, particularly for low‐resource countries.
Morin hydrate promotes inner ear neural stem cell survival and differentiation and protects cochlea against neuronal hearing loss
Authors: He Qiang , Jia Zhanwei , Zhang Ying , Ren Xiumin
Published: October 2016

We aimed to investigate the effect of morin hydrate on neural stem cells (NSCs) isolated from mouse inner ear and its potential in protecting neuronal hearing loss. 3‐(4,5‐dimethyl‐2‐thiazolyl)‐2,5‐diphenyl‐2‐H‐tetrazolium bromide (MTT) and bromodeoxyuridine incorporation assays were employed to assess the effect of morin hydrate on the viability and proliferation ofin vitroNSCculture. TheNSCs were then differentiated into neurons, in which neurosphere formation and differentiation were evaluated, followed by neurite outgrowth and neural excitability measurements in the subsequentin vitroneuronal network. Mechanotransduction of cochleaex vivoculture and auditory brainstem responses threshold and distortion product optoacoustic emissions amplitude in mouse ototoxicity model were also measured following gentamicin treatment to investigate the protective role of morin hydrate against neuronal hearing loss. Morin hydrate improved viability and proliferation, neurosphere formation and neuronal differentiation of inner earNSCs, and promotedin vitroneuronal network functions. In bothex vivoandin vivoototoxicity models, morin hydrate prevented gentamicin‐induced neuronal hearing loss. Morin hydrate exhibited potent properties in promoting growth and differentiation of inner earNSCs into functional neurons and protecting from gentamicin ototoxicity. Our study supports its clinical potential in treating neuronal hearing loss.
Activation of ATP‐sensitive potassium channels facilitates the function of human endothelial colony‐forming cells via Ca2+/Akt/eNOS pathway
Authors: Wu Yan , He Meng‐Yu , Ye Jian‐Kui , Ma Shu‐Ying , Huang Wen , Wei Yong‐Yue , Kong Hui , Wang Hong , Zeng Xiao‐Ning , Xie Wei‐Ping
Published: October 2016

Accumulating data, including those from our laboratory, have shown that the opening of ATP‐sensitive potassium channels (KATP) plays a protective role in pulmonary vascular diseases (PVD). As maintainers of the endothelial framework, endothelial colony‐forming cells (ECFCs) are considered excellent candidates for vascular regeneration in cases of PVD. Although KATP openers (KCOs) have been demonstrated to have beneficial effects on endothelial cells, the impact of KATP on ECFC function remains unclear. Herein, this study investigated whether there is a distribution of KATP in ECFCs and what role KATP play in ECFC modulation. By human ECFCs isolated from adult peripheral blood, KATP were confirmed for the first time to express in ECFCs, comprised subunits of Kir (Kir6.1, Kir6.2) and SUR2b. KCOs such as the classical agent nicorandil (Nico) and the novel agent iptakalim (Ipt) notably improved the function of ECFCs, promoting cell proliferation, migration and angiogenesis, which were abolished by a non‐selective KATP blocker glibenclamide (Gli). To determine the underlying mechanisms, we investigated the impacts of KCOs on CaMKII, Akt and endothelial nitric oxide synthase pathways. Enhanced levels were detected by western blotting, which were abrogated by Gli. This suggested an involvement of Ca2+ signalling in the regulation of ECFCs by KATP. Our findings demonstrated for the first time that there is a distribution of KATP in ECFCs and KATP play a vital role in ECFC function. The present work highlighted a novel profile of KATP as a potential target for ECFC modulation, which may hold the key to the treatment of PVD.
The consequences of facultative sex in a prey adapting to predation
Authors: Koch H. , Becks L.
Published: October 2016

A species reproductive mode, along with its associated costs and benefits, can play a significant role in its evolution and survival. Facultative sexuality, being able to reproduce both sexually and asexually, has been deemed evolutionary favourable as the benefits of either mode may be fully realized. In fact, many studies have focused on identifying the benefits of sex and/or the forces selecting for increased rates of sex using facultative sexual species. The costs of either mode, however, can also have a profound impact on a population's evolutionary trajectory. Here, we used experimental evolution and fitness assays to investigate the consequences of facultative sexuality in prey adapting to predation. Specifically, we compared the adaptive response of algal prey populations exposed to constant rotifer predation and which had alternating cycles of asexual and sexual reproduction where sexual episodes were either facultative (sexual and asexual progeny simultaneously propagated) or obligate (only sexual progeny propagated). We found that prey populations with facultative sexual episodes reached a lower final relative fitness and suffered a greater trade‐off in traits under selection, that is defence and competitive ability, as compared to prey populations with obligate sexual episodes. Our results suggest that costs associated with sexual reproduction (germination time) and asexual reproduction (selection interference) were amplified in the facultative sexual prey populations, leading to a reduction in the net advantage of sexuality. Additionally, we found evidence that the cost of sex was reduced in the obligate sexual prey populations because increased selection for sex was observed via the spontaneous production of sexual cells. These results show that certain costs associated with facultative sexuality can affect an organism's evolutionary trajectory.
Genetic variation and local differences in Pacific cod Gadus macrocephalus around Japan
Authors: Suda A. , Nagata N. , Sato A. , Narimatsu Y. , Nadiatul H. H. , Kawata M.
Published: October 2016

The population structure of the Pacific cod Gadus macrocephalus was examined using 15 microsatellite loci and mitochondrial DNA (ND2 region). In total, 274 individuals were sampled from 16 locations around Japan to estimate the level of genetic differentiation and effective population size (Ne). Pairwise FST, analysis of molecular variance and Bayesian clustering analysis suggested the presence of two genetically distinct groups in waters around Japan, with a higher Ne value in the eastern group than in the western group. A possible factor that restricts gene flow between groups may be related to the water temperature differences in the south‐western part of the Sea of Japan, where the Tsushima Warm Current flows around the area inhabited by the western group, which may limit migration between the west and east.