bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anti-pathogen protection versus survival costs mediated by an ectosymbiont in an ant host
Authors: Konrad Matthias , Grasse Anna V. , Tragust Simon , Cremer Sylvia
Published: December 2014

The fitness effects of symbionts on their hosts can be context-dependent, with usually benign symbionts causing detrimental effects when their hosts are stressed, or typically parasitic symbionts providing protection towards their hosts (e.g. against pathogen infection). Here, we studied the novel association between the invasive garden ant
Lasius neglectus
and its fungal ectosymbiont
Laboulbenia formicarum
for potential costs and benefits. We tested ants with different
Laboulbenia
levels for their survival and immunity under resource limitation and exposure to the obligate killing entomopathogen
Metarhizium brunneum
. While survival of
L. neglectus
workers under starvation was significantly decreased with increasing
Laboulbenia
levels, host survival under
Metarhizium
exposure increased with higher levels of the ectosymbiont, suggesting a symbiont-mediated anti-pathogen protection, which seems to be driven mechanistically by both improved sanitary behaviours and an upregulated immune system. Ants with high
Laboulbenia
levels showed significantly longer self-grooming and elevated expression of immune genes relevant for wound repair and antifungal responses (
β-1,3-glucan binding protein
,
Prophenoloxidase
), compared with ants carrying low
Laboulbenia
levels. This suggests that the ectosymbiont
Laboulbenia formicarum
weakens its ant host by either direct resource exploitation or the costs of an upregulated behavioural and immunological response, which, however, provides a prophylactic protection upon later exposure to pathogens.
Developmental telomere attrition predicts impulsive decision-making in adult starlings
Authors: Bateson Melissa , Brilot Ben O. , Gillespie Robert , Monaghan Pat , Nettle Daniel
Published: December 2014

Animals in a poor biological state face reduced life expectancy, and as a consequence should make decisions that prioritize immediate survival and reproduction over long-term benefits. We tested the prediction that if, as has been suggested, developmental telomere attrition is a biomarker of state and future life expectancy, then individuals who have undergone greater developmental telomere attrition should display greater choice impulsivity as adults. We measured impulsive decision-making in a cohort of European starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) in which we had previously manipulated developmental telomere attrition by cross-fostering sibling chicks into broods of different sizes. We show that as predicted by state-dependent optimality models, individuals who had sustained greater developmental telomere attrition and who had shorter current telomeres made more impulsive foraging decisions as adults, valuing smaller, sooner food rewards more highly than birds with less attrition and longer telomeres. Our findings shed light on the biological embedding of early adversity and support a functional explanation for its consequences that could be applicable to other species, including humans.
Dispersal and selection mediate hybridization between a native and invasive species
Authors: Kovach Ryan P. , Muhlfeld Clint C. , Boyer Matthew C. , Lowe Winsor H. , Allendorf Fred W. , Luikart Gordon
Published: December 2014

Hybridization between native and non-native species has serious biological consequences, but our understanding of how dispersal and selection interact to influence invasive hybridization is limited. Here, we document the spread of genetic introgression between a native (
Oncorhynchus clarkii
) and invasive (
Oncorhynchus mykiss
) trout, and identify the mechanisms influencing genetic admixture. In two populations inhabiting contrasting environments, non-native admixture increased rapidly from 1984 to 2007 and was driven by surprisingly consistent processes. Individual admixture was related to two phenotypic traits associated with fitness: size at spawning and age of juvenile emigration. Fish with higher non-native admixture were larger and tended to emigrate at a younger age―relationships that are expected to confer fitness advantages to hybrid individuals. However, strong selection against non-native admixture was evident across streams and cohorts (mean selection coefficient against genotypes with non-native alleles (
s
) = 0.60; s.e. = 0.10). Nevertheless, hybridization was promoted in both streams by the continuous immigration of individuals with high levels of non-native admixture from other hybrid source populations. Thus, antagonistic relationships between dispersal and selection are mediating invasive hybridization between these fish, emphasizing that data on dispersal and natural selection are needed to fully understand the dynamics of introgression between native and non-native species.
Burkholderia monticola sp. nov., isolated from mountain soil
Authors: Baek Inwoo , Seo Boram , Lee Imchang , Yi Hana , Chun Jongsik
Published: December 2014

An ivory/yellow, Gram-stain-negative, short-rod-shaped, aerobic bacterial strain, designated JC2948T, was isolated from a soil sample taken from Gwanak Mountain, Republic of Korea. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis indicated that strain JC2948T belongs to the genus

Burkholderia

. The test strain showed highest sequence similarities to

Burkholderia tropica

LMG 22274T (97.6 %),

Burkholderia acidipaludis

NBRC 101816T (97.5 %),

Burkholderia tuberum

LMG 21444T (97.5 %),

Burkholderia sprentiae

LMG 27175T (97.4 %),

Burkholderia terricola

LMG 20594T (97.3 %) and

Burkholderia diazotrophica

LMG 26031T (97.1 %). Based on average nucleotide identity (ANI) values, the new isolate represents a novel genomic species as it shows less than 90 % ANI values with other closely related species. Also, other phylosiological and biochemical comparisons allowed the phenotypic differentiation of strain JC2948T from other members of the genus

Burkholderia

. Therefore, we suggest that this strain should be classified as the type strain of a novel species of the genus

Burkholderia

. The name Burkholderia monticola sp. nov. (type strain, JC2948T = JCM 19904T = KACC 17924T) is proposed.
Core subjects at the end of primary school: identifying and explaining relative strengths of children with specific language impairment (SLI)
Authors: Durkin Kevin , Mok Pearl L. H. , Conti‐Ramsden Gina
Published: December 2014

Background

In general, children with specific language impairment (SLI) tend to fall behind their typically developing (TD) peers in educational attainment. Less is known about how children with SLI fare in particular areas of the curriculum and what predicts their levels of performance.

Aims

To compare the distributions of performance of children with SLI in three core school subjects (English, Mathematics and Science); to test the possibility that performance would vary across the core subjects; and to examine the extent to which language impairment predicts performance.

Methods & Procedures

This study was conducted in England and reports historical data on educational attainments. Teacher assessment and test scores of 176 eleven‐year‐old children with SLI were examined in the three core subjects and compared with known national norms. Possible predictors of performance were measured, including language ability at ages 7 and 11, educational placement type, and performance IQ.

Outcomes & Results

Children with SLI, compared with national norms, were found to be at a disadvantage in core school subjects. Nevertheless, some children attained the levels expected of TD peers. Performance was poorest in English; relative strengths were indicated in Science and, to a lesser extent, in Mathematics. Language skills were significant predictors of performance in all three core subjects. PIQ was the strongest predictor for Mathematics. For Science, both early language skills at 7 years and PIQ made significant contributions.

Conclusions & Implications

Language impacts on the school performance of children with SLI, but differentially across subjects. English for these children is the most challenging of the core subjects, reflecting the high levels of language demand it incurs. Science is an area of relative strength and mathematics appears to be intermediate, arguably because some tasks in these subjects can be performed with less reliance on verbal processing. Many children with SLI do have the potential to reach or exceed educational targets that are set at national levels for TD children.
Student and Environmental Protests in Chile: The Role of Social Media
Authors: Scherman Andrés , Arriagada Arturo , Valenzuela Sebastián
Published: December 2014

In 2011, Chile experienced two massive protest movements – one against the cost and quality of public education and another against the construction of power plants in Patagonia. This represented a unique opportunity to analyse and compare how Facebook and Twitter use were related to street demonstrations. Using a probabilistic face-to-face survey among urban youth (18–29 years old) conducted shortly after the protests, this study revealed a positive relationship between the use of social media and participation in both social movements, even controlling for other relevant variables (e.g. political interest, ideology and trust). The theoretical and methodological implications of these findings are discussed in this article.
British MPs on British PMs: Parliamentary Evaluations of Prime Ministerial Success
Authors:   Royal Holloway Group PR3710
Published: December 2014

This article reports the results of a recent survey of British Members of Parliament (N = 158) to explore parliamentary evaluations of post-war British Prime Ministers. The survey was fielded in 2013 as a part of a collaborative research project undertaken by undergraduate students. It finds that MPs in general rated Margaret Thatcher as the most successful post-war Prime Minister, with Clement Attlee a close runner-up. It also finds that MPs prioritised the implementation of party policy above merely winning elections, and that MPs thought successful Prime Ministers need to be decisive, principled and intelligent.
Corporate Social Responsibility: The Link Between Sustainability Disclosure and Sustainability Performance
Authors: Herbohn Kathleen , Walker Julie , Loo Huay Yien Monica
Published: December 2014

This paper explores the relation between sustainability performance and sustainability disclosure within the Australian extractive industries. The study utilizes Ullmann's (1985) stakeholder framework, which depicts sustainability disclosure and performance as two components of management strategy for dealing with stakeholder demands. Consistent with this framework, we predict a positive performance–disclosure relation. Extending prior research that has utilized problematic environmental performance indices such as CEP indices or toxic emissions levels, we develop a sustainability performance index based on the International Finance Corporation's Measuring Sustainability Framework (2001). Using data from 339 mining and energy firms listed on the Australian Securities Exchange in 2006, we find that corporate sustainability performance is strongly associated with disclosure as expected. Sustainability disclosure is also greater for firms with a proactive communication strategy as manifested through press release activity. Finally, asset age and firm size are both positively associated with sustainability, consistent with predictions from the stakeholder framework.
Evaluation of a healthy ageing intervention for frail older people living in the community
Authors: McNamara Beverley , Rosenwax Lorna , Lee Elinda AL , Same Anne
Published: December 2014

Aim

To evaluate a healthy ageing intervention in the form of a program of physical and social activity for frail older people living in the community.

Methods

New members of an activity program were surveyed before and after attending the program and interviewed face‐to‐face prior to the program, immediately after the program and through a telephone interview two months following the program.

Results

Program participants reported better health, social function and mental well‐being; greater engagement in household and leisure activities; and increased enjoyment and confidence through participating in the program. Some participants could not attend the whole program due to poor health or difficulties securing transport.

Conclusion

The results suggest the program was successful in enhancing the health and well‐being of those community‐dwelling older adults who stayed in the program. However, the high drop‐out rate suggests that flexibility is required in community‐based healthy ageing programs.
The endocrine disruptor bisphenol A may play a role in the aetiopathogenesis of polycystic ovary syndrome in adolescent girls
Authors: Akın Leyla , Kendirci Mustafa , Narin Figen , Kurtoglu Selim , Saraymen Recep , Kondolot Meda , Koçak Selda , Elmalı Ferhan
Published: December 2014

Aim

Experimental in vitro studies have shown that bisphenol A affects steroidogenesis, folliculogenesis and ovarian morphology. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of the endocrine disruptor bisphenol A in the aetiopathogenesis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in adolescents and its relationship with metabolic parameters, insulin resistance and obesity in this population.

Methods

A total of 112 girls with PCOS and 61 controls between 13 and 19 years of age were enrolled in the study. Serum bisphenol A levels were measured by high‐pressure liquid chromatography. An oral glucose tolerance test was also performed.

Results

Adolescents with PCOS had markedly increased serum bisphenol A levels (mean: 1.1 ng/mL 95% CI: 1.0–1.2) than controls (mean: 0.8 ng/mL 95% CI: 0.6–0.9, p = 0.001). When we compared the subgroups according to obesity, the main factor determining the significant increase in bisphenol A was the presence of PCOS, but not obesity (p = 0.029). Bisphenol A was significantly correlated with total testosterone (r = 0.52), free testosterone (r = 0.44), dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (r = 0.37) and Ferriman–Gallwey score (r = 0.43) (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Adolescents with PCOS had higher serum bisphenol A levels than controls, independent of obesity. Bisphenol A concentrations were significantly correlated with androgen levels, leading us to consider that bisphenol A might play a role in the aetiopathogenesis of PCOS in adolescents.
Ultraviolet radiation exposure of a high arctic lake in Svalbard during the Holocene
Authors: Nevalainen Liisa , Rantala Marttiina V. , Luoto Tomi P. , Rautio Milla , Ojala Antti E. K.
Published: December 2014

Long‐term fluctuations in lake‐water optical properties were examined using a Holocene sediment sequence and multi‐proxy palaeolimnological approach in Lake Einstaken, Nordaustlandet, Svalbard. UV‐absorbance of sedimentary cladoceran remains provided information on underwater UV exposure and changes in lake‐catchment coupling processes were inferred from sediment geochemistry. In addition, aquatic community succession was used as an indicator for lake‐water bio‐optical properties and a Holocene record of sun activity (sunspots) was utilized to evaluate long‐term solar forcing. The results indicated that the UV‐absorbance of cladoceran remains was highest (i.e. maximum UV‐induced pigmentation) for a short period during the early Holocene and for several millennia during the mid‐Holocene. Sun activity was high during these time intervals, probably impacting the UV intensities, but it is probable that the amount of UV‐attenuating compounds (e.g. dissolved organic carbon (DOC)) also significantly affected the underwater UV environment and were low during high UV exposure. Benthic autotrophic communities also responded to the millennial changes in lake‐water optical properties. UV‐resistant Nostoc cyanobacterial colonies were established during the mid‐Holocene, indicative of high underwater UV intensities, and Fontinalis mosses thrived during the early Holocene, indicating a highly transparent water column. The results further suggested that underwater UV exposure decreased during the late Holocene, which is probably attributable to increased DOC and decreased solar forcing. Owing to the location of Lake Einstaken and its catchment in the periglacial barren landscape of the polar desert, the fluctuations of bio‐optical lake‐water properties were apparently forced by postglacial environmental processes and Holocene climate development. These factors controlled sea shoreline proximity, water discharge, ice‐cover duration and littoral‐benthic primary production and further affected the underwater UV environment. Although the role of solar forcing cannot be underestimated, the current record emphasizes the role of climate‐mediated lake‐catchment interactions in impacting bio‐optical properties and UV exposure of high arctic aquatic systems.
Controlled infection with a therapeutic virus defines the activation kinetics of human natural killer cellsin vivo
Authors: El-Sherbiny Y M , Holmes T D , Wetherill L F , Black E V I , Wilson E B , Phillips S L , Scott G B , Adair R A , Dave R , Scott K J , Morgan R S M , Coffey M , Toogood G J , Melcher A A , Cook G P
Published: December 2014

Human natural killer (NK) cells play an important role in anti-viral immunity. However, studying their activation kinetics during infection is highly problematic. A clinical trial of a therapeutic virus provided an opportunity to study human NK cell activation in vivo in a controlled manner. Ten colorectal cancer patients with liver metastases received between one and five doses of oncolytic reovirus prior to surgical resection of their tumour. NK cell surface expression of the interferon-inducible molecules CD69 and tetherin peaked 24–48 h post-infection, coincident with a peak of interferon-induced gene expression. The interferon response and NK cell activation were transient, declining by 96 h post-infection. Furthermore, neither NK cell activation nor the interferon response were sustained in patients undergoing multiple rounds of virus treatment. These results show that reovirus modulates human NK cell activity in vivo and suggest that this may contribute to any therapeutic effect of this oncolytic virus. Detection of a single, transient peak of activation, despite multiple treatment rounds, has implications for the design of reovirus-based therapy. Furthermore, our results suggest the existence of a post-infection refractory period when the interferon response and NK cell activation are blunted. This refractory period has been observed previously in animal models and may underlie the enhanced susceptibility to secondary infections that is seen following viral infection.
Association of polymorphisms in interleukin (IL)-12A and -B genes with rheumatoid arthritis in a Chinese population
Authors: Wang E-Y , Yang Q , Liao Z-G
Published: December 2014

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is characterized by synovial infiltrates and progressive cell-mediated destruction of the joints, which results in significant disability and early mortality. Genetic factors may play an important role in the development of RA. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of common polymorphisms in interleukin (IL)-12A and IL-12B genes with RA in a Chinese Han population. Three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in IL-12 genes were genotyped in 412 patients with RA and 279 control subjects using polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR–RFLP). Our data showed that IL-12B gene SNPs rs3212227 and rs6887695 were observed as a risk factor of RA. The minor allele (C) frequency of IL-12B gene rs3212227 and rs6887695 increased the risk of RA. Individuals carrying the rs3212227/rs6887695 C/C haplotype were associated with a significantly increased risk of RA. RA patients with the C allele of IL-12B gene rs6887695 was a protective factor to erosive arthropathy. Carriers of the C allele of IL-12B gene rs3212227 were significantly more likely to be RF-positive. No significant association was observed between rs2243115 in IL-12A and RA, due probably to the limited power. These results suggest that common variants in IL-12B may contribute to the development of RA in the Chinese population.
Endothelial Function and Vascular Properties in Children with Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Hadeed Khaled , Hascoet Sébastien , Castex Marie‐Pierre , Munzer Caroline , Acar Philippe , Dulac Yves
Published: December 2014

Background

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited disorder characterized by recurrent painful crises with ischemia resulting from vascular occlusion. Adults with SCD have increased arterial stiffness and reduced flow‐mediated dilation (FMD), due to impaired release of substances such as nitric oxide.

Aim

We aimed to assess the vascular properties of carotid and brachial arteries in children with SCD compared with a control group without cardiovascular risk factors.

Methods

Thirty patients with SCD, mean age 12.3 ± 4.5 years, were prospectively enrolled. A control group was made up of 30 age‐ and gender‐matched healthy subjects. Carotid intima–media thickness (IMT), cross‐sectional compliance (CSC), cross‐sectional distensibility (CSD), diastolic wall stress (DWS), incremental elastic modulus (Einc), and FMD were determined in both groups.

Results

There was no significant difference in FMD between the two groups (8.2 ± 5.0% in the SCD group vs. 9.3 ± 4.2% in the control group, P = 0.15). There was no significant correlation between FMD and age, hemoglobin, LDH level, or transcranial Doppler findings. CSD was significantly elevated in the SCD group (0.96 ± 0.44 vs. 0.59 ± 0.21, P = 0.0002), whereas DWS and Einc were significantly lower in the SCD group. CSC did not differ significantly between the two groups.

Conclusions

Children with SCD have no marked endothelial dysfunction or change in arterial stiffness. These manifestations may be related to disease severity and duration. Changes may become evident later in life as the disease progresses.
Vagus nerve stimulation reduces cardiac electrical instability assessed by quantitative T‐wave alternans analysis in patients with drug‐resistant focal epilepsy
Authors: Schomer Andrew C. , Nearing Bruce D. , Schachter Steven C. , Verrier Richard L.
Published: December 2014

Objective

The cardiac component of risk for sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) and alterations in cardiac risk by vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) are not well understood. We determined changes in T‐wave alternans (TWA), a proven noninvasive marker of risk for sudden cardiac death in patients with cardiovascular disease, and heart rate variability (HRV), an indicator of autonomic function, in association with VNS in patients with drug‐resistant focal epilepsy.

Methods

Ambulatory 24‐h electrocardiograms (N = 9: ages 29–63, six males) were analyzed.

Results

Mean TWA during the interictal period was 37 ± 3.1 μV (mean ± SEM) in lead V1 for nine patients monitored following implantation of the VNS system (n = 7) or battery change (n = 2). Of these, six patients also monitored prior to implantation (n = 5) or battery change (n = 1) showed abnormally high TWA levels pre‐VNS (60.0 ± 4.3 μV), which were significantly reduced by 24.3 μV (to 35.7 ± 4.8 μV, p = 0.02) after VNS settings were adjusted for desired clinical response. TWA in four (67%) of the six patients was reduced in association with VNS to levels below the 47‐μV cut point of abnormality. The decrease in TWA was correlated with VNS intensity (r = 0.88, p < 0.02). In addition, low‐frequency HRV was reduced by 60% (805.61 ± 253.96 to 323.49 ± 102.74 msec2, p = 0.05) and low‐to high‐frequency HRV ratio by 32% (3.34 ± 0.57 to 2.26 ± 0.31, p = 0.025), indicating a change in autonomic balance in favor of parasympathetic dominance.

Significance

This is the first report that elevated levels of TWA in patients with drug‐refractory partial‐onset seizures were reduced in association with VNS, potentially by improving sympathetic/parasympathetic balance. VNS may have a cardioprotective role at stimulation settings typically used for seizure control. These findings indicate the utility of TWA for tracking improvement in cardiac status in this population.
Is climate change the greatest threat to global health?
Authors: Papworth Andrew , Maslin Mark , Randalls Samuel
Published: December 2014

This commentary critically engages with the argument that climate change is the greatest threat to global health in the twenty‐first century. A review of climate‐health examples suggests that although it is important to be aware of the risk that climate change presents, health status is caused and mediated by multiple exposures. The current evidence suggests the impact of climate change over the next 30 years is not going to be catastrophic for health, and positioning it as the greatest threat – instead of other important factors such as poverty and health inequalities – could obscure the potential of current global health measures and reduce focus on other health risks such as non‐communicable diseases and HIV/AIDS. Although climate change mitigation is vitally important to reduce far‐future harm, the policymaking community should focus on current interventions that reduce populations’ exposure to climate change, boost populations’ ability to adapt, and reduce health inequalities.
Integrated analysis of profitable stocking‐rate decisions in pasture‐based dairy systems
Authors: Romera A. J. , Doole G. J.
Published: December 2014

A nonlinear optimization model of a pasture‐based dairy farm, located in the Waikato region of New Zealand, is used to provide an integrated analysis of profitable stocking‐rate decisions for pasture‐based dairy production, across a range of alternative milk and nitrogen fertilizer prices. Previous research has identified that operating profit increases either in a linear or concave fashion as stocking rate is lifted. This study shows that both views are relevant, depending on the magnitude of milk and nitrogen fertilizer prices. A lower milk price and/or higher per‐unit cost for nitrogen fertilizer reduces profit at higher stocking rates, as the cost of maintaining a larger herd through pronounced feed deficits is magnified. In contrast to previous research, nitrogen fertilizer and imported supplement are shown to be highly complementary strategies under profitable farm management. Model output demonstrates that decreasing stocking rates to reduce leaching, in most cases, will impose a cost in terms of both production and profit. Overall, this work indicates the key importance of stocking‐rate decisions to profitable grazing strategies, relative to those concerning milk per cow. Nevertheless, it is the inherent linkages between stocking rate and the multiple elements of a grazing system that infers this importance, highlighting the need to carefully consider all management levers.
Patient engagement with research: European population register study
Authors: McKevitt Christopher , Fudge Nina , Crichton Siobhan , Bejot Yannick , Daubail Benoît , Di Carlo Antonio , Fearon Patricia , Kolominsky‐Rabas Peter , Sheldenkar Anita , Newbound Sophie , Wolfe Charles DA ,   the European Implementation Score (EIS) Collaborative Group
Published: December 2014

Background

Lay involvement in implementation of research evidence into practice may include using research findings to guide individual care, as well as involvement in research processes and policy development. Little is known about the conditions required for such involvement.

Aim

To assess stroke survivors’ research awareness, use of research evidence in their own care and readiness to be involved in research processes.

Methods

Cross sectional survey of stroke survivors participating in population‐based stroke registers in six European centres.

Results

The response rate was 74% (481/647). Reasons for participation in register research included responding to clinician request (56%) and to ‘give something back’ (19%); however, 20% were unaware that they were participating in a stroke register. Research awareness was generally low: 57% did not know the purpose of the register they had been recruited to; 73% reported not having received results from the register they took part in; 60% did not know about any research on stroke care. Few participants (7.6%) used research evidence during their consultations with a doctor. The 34% of participants who were interested in being involved in research were younger, more highly educated and already research aware.

Conclusions

Across Europe, stroke survivors already participating in research appear ill informed about stroke research. Researchers, healthcare professionals and patient associations need to improve how research results are communicated to patient populations and research participants, and to raise awareness of the relationship between research evidence and increased quality of care.
Early morning fledging improves recruitment in Great Tits Parus major
Authors: Radersma Reinder , Komdeur Jan , Tinbergen Joost M.
Published: December 2014

A potential key event linking the nestling phase to first‐year survival is fledging (nest leaving) because this process is characterized by a major change of environments and therefore a sudden shift in selective forces. Here we assessed whether different facets of fledging predicted subsequent survival (measured as local recruitment) in Great Tits Parus major. Nestlings had a higher recruitment probability when they fledged early in the morning and when they were heavy. The existence of selection for fledging early in the day has been suggested before, but here we provide the first empirical evidence in support of that prediction.
Feather‐based measures of stable isotopes and corticosterone reveal a relationship between trophic position and physiology in a pelagic seabird over a 153‐year period
Authors: Fairhurst Graham D. , Bond Alexander L. , Hobson Keith A. , Ronconi Robert A.
Published: December 2014

Diet during the non‐breeding period influences condition and subsequent reproduction. Physiological mechanisms underlying such carry‐over effects are poorly understood but could be clarified by studying physiological responses to variation in diet during non‐breeding. The hormone corticosterone provides a functional link between diet and survival and reproduction, but methodological limitations have prevented previous studies from testing the hypothesis that, on an individual level, avian corticosterone levels during the non‐breeding period reflect broader patterns in feeding ecology during that time. Using museum specimens (1859–2002) and live birds (2012), we found that corticosterone from feathers (CORTf) is negatively related to trophic position (TP) inferred from feather stable‐nitrogen isotope values (δ15N) in Leach's Storm‐petrels Oceanodroma leucorhoa. CORTf was not related to stable‐carbon isotope values (δ13C). We detected no temporal trends in CORTf or δ15N, and neither was related to a large‐scale index of winter climate, suggesting a general ecological phenomenon rather than a reflection of historical environmental changes. However, we detected a temporal trend in feather δ13C, and δ13C was related to δ15N. Our findings suggest a physiological benefit of feeding at higher TPs, either through increased nutritional value or reduced foraging costs associated with higher TP prey, and future research should aim to distinguish between these two explanations. Nevertheless, ours is the first evidence of a correlation between individual endocrine levels and foraging ecology, and demonstrates non‐lethal variation in a physiological mediator in turn related to variation in resource use.
Comparison of fruit and vegetable consumption among Native and non‐Native American populations in rural communities
Authors: Cho Soo Hyun , Chang Kuo‐Liang , Yeo Jeonghee , Wounded Head Lorna , Zastrow Marjorie , Zdorovtsov Christina , Skjonsberg Larissa , Stluka Suzanne
Published: December 2014

Fruit and vegetable consumption of Native Americans was compared with that of non‐Native Americans and determinants of fruit and vegetable intake for both populations were found based upon the Theory of Planned Behavior. A one‐time survey was conducted as part of a larger research project funded by the South Dakota Department of Health. The survey was administered in local grocery stores and supermarkets in six South Dakota communities, including two located on Native American reservations. Of the 1000 distributed surveys, 499 were returned with 230 being usable, resulting in a response rate of 49.9%. Wilcoxon signed‐rank test and two regression models were tested using SAS 9.2 software. Dependent variables were fruit and vegetable intake. Attitudes towards health, fruit and vegetable consumption, perceived difficulty, subjective norm and intention were also measured. Community size, family income, employment status and participation in food assistance programmes [Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or Women, Infants, and Children (SNAP or WIC)] were socio‐demographic control variables. Overall, Native American participants consumed more fruit and vegetables at home and had a more positive attitude towards healthy diets than non‐Native American participants. SNAP or WIC participation, family health, exercise, intention to live healthier than parents, buying healthy food, and fruit and vegetable consumption when eating out were positively associated with fruit and vegetable consumption among Native Americans, while participation in the SNAP or WIC programme had a negative influence on consumption among non‐Native American participants. Family health, exercise, buying healthy food, fruit and vegetable when eating out, and intention to buy healthy food were positively associated with fruit and vegetable consumption among the non‐Native American population. Theory of Planned Behavior variables (e.g. attitude towards healthy food) significantly contributed to the model explaining fruit and vegetable consumption. The fact that SNAP and WIC participation had an opposite influence on the two populations warrants further research.
Reducing child poverty and assessing targeting performance: Governmental cash transfers in Taiwan
Authors: Chen Ke‐Mei , Leu Chao‐Hsien , Wang Te‐Mu
Published: December 2014

In this study, we focused on child poverty and examined the targeting performance of governmental cash benefits in Taiwan, and whether they successfully alleviate child poverty when budget constraints are imposed. We employed data from the cross‐sectional Survey of Family Income and Expenditure 2010, which was conducted by the Directorate General of Budget, Accounting, and Statistics of the Executive Yuan in Taiwan. We investigated efficiency and effectiveness, using the IRIS, Beckerman, and Shapley approaches, to measure targeting performance. The results suggest that few transfer programmes perform well in terms of both target efficiency and effectiveness; this generates trade‐offs and paradoxes between efficiency or effectiveness, undercoverage or leakage, vertical or horizontal efficiency, and universal or selective benefits. We conclude by suggesting social policy implications based on the findings.

Key Practitioner Message: ● Using different approach (targeting performance) to analyse child poverty; ● Using targeting efficiency and effectiveness to analyse whether governmental cash benefits ameliorate child poverty given specific budget constraints.
Effect of spatial differences in growth on distribution of seasonally co‐occurring herring Clupea harengus stocks
Authors: Clausen L. A. W. , Stæhr K.‐J. , Rindorf A. , Mosegaard H.
Published: December 2014

The mechanisms most likely to determine the distribution of the two major herring Clupea harengus stocks in their common early summer feeding ground in the eastern North Sea, Skagerrak and Kattegat were investigated through analysis of acoustic survey data from six consecutive years. No change was detected in biomass of North Sea autumn spawning C. harengus (NSAS) over time, whereas the biomass of western Baltic spring spawning C. harengus (WBSS) declined severely. Analyses of centre of abundance by stock showed no change in NSAS distribution, whereas the WBSS changed to a more western distribution over time. Contrary to previous perception of the juvenile migration, NSAS were found to leave the study area at the age between 1 and 2 years and WBSS 1 year olds were encountered in the Skagerrak. The estimated parameters of von Bertalanffy growth equations showed marked differences between areas with fish in the eastern part of the area having the lowest size at age at all ages. Further, their growth conditions appeared to deteriorate progressively over the period studied. Both NSAS and WBSS showed the highest condition in the North Sea and Skagerrak while condition was substantially lower in age Kattegat. The westward movement of spring spawners over time suggests that growth rate and possibly density of conspecifics influence the migration pattern and distribution of C. harengus in the area. In contrast, there was no evidence to suggest that distribution was constant over time within stocks or that distribution reflected size‐dependent limitations on migration distance.
Spontaneous nocardial brain abscess in a juvenile rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta)
Authors: Ferrecchia Christie E. , Ducore Rebecca M. , Colgin Lois M.A. , Lewis Anne D.
Published: December 2014

Background

A juvenile rhesus macaque presented with blindness, ataxia, and head tilt.

Methods

Postmortem gross and microscopic examination, histochemical staining and bacterial culture were performed.

Results

Nocardia sp. was identified as the etiologic agent of a primary pneumonia with secondary cerebral abscessation.

Conclusions

Nocardiosis should be a differential diagnosis for patients with neurologic disease.
Key steps in type III secretion system (T3SS) towards translocon assembly with potential sensor at plant plasma membrane
Authors: Ji Hongtao , Dong Hansong
Published: December 2014

Many plant‐ and animal‐pathogenic Gram‐negative bacteria employ the type III secretion system (T3SS) to translocate effector proteins from bacterial cells into the cytosol of eukaryotic host cells. The effector translocation occurs through an integral component of T3SS, the channel‐like translocon, assembled by hydrophilic and hydrophobic proteinaceous translocators in a two‐step process. In the first, hydrophilic translocators localize to the tip of a proteinaceous needle in animal pathogens, or a proteinaceous pilus in plant pathogens, and associate with hydrophobic translocators, which insert into host plasma membranes in the second step. However, the pilus needs to penetrate plant cell walls in advance. All hydrophilic translocators so far identified in plant pathogens are characteristic of harpins: T3SS accessory proteins containing a unitary hydrophilic domain or an additional enzymatic domain. Two‐domain harpins carrying a pectate lyase domain potentially target plant cell walls and facilitate the penetration of the pectin‐rich middle lamella by the bacterial pilus. One‐domain harpins target plant plasma membranes and may play a crucial role in translocon assembly, which may also involve contrapuntal associations of hydrophobic translocators. In all cases, sensory components in the target plasma membrane are indispensable for the membrane recognition of translocators and the functionality of the translocon. The conjectural sensors point to membrane lipids and proteins, and a phosphatidic acid and an aquaporin are able to interact with selected harpin‐type translocators. Interactions between translocators and their sensors at the target plasma membrane are assumed to be critical for translocon assembly.
Urinary Emmprin, matrix metalloproteinase 9 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1 as potential biomarkers in children with ureteropelvic junction narrowing on conservative treatment
Authors: Tian Fengyan , Gu Chaohui , Zhao Zhanzheng , Li Luping , Lu Shan , Li Zhenzhen
Published: December 2014

Background

Rapid diagnosis and initiation of the treatment on congenital obstructive nephropathy are important for young children to slow down renal injury. The aim of our study was to investigate the role of urinary extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducer (Emmprin), matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP‐9) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP‐1) in the long‐term follow‐up of children with ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) narrowing on conservative treatment.

Methods

The study included 40 children with non‐obstructed hydronephrosis due to unilateral UPJ narrowing who were treated conservatively and followed up for 24 months. Voided urine samples were collected at diagnosis and at 3, 9, 15 and 24 months of follow‐up, respectively. Three enzymes concentrations were measured in urine.

Results

During the follow‐up, 25 children showed renal function stabilization (non‐obstructed group) and 15 children renal function deterioration (obstructed group). In the non‐obstructed group, a comparison between urine three enzymes levels at the last follow‐up and at baseline showed no significant differences (all P > 0.05). Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and split renal function (SRF) showed similar trends. In the obstructed group, a comparison between the three enzymes levels at diagnosis and at basal condition showed a significant increase (all P < 0.01). But GFR and SRF showed a marked reduction at diagnosis (all P < 0.001). Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) analyses revealed a better diagnostic profile for uEmmprin, uMMP‐9 and uTIMP‐1 in identifying children with abnormal SRF (<40%) at 24 months of follow‐up [area under the curve (AUC) 0.877, 0.727 and 0.823, respectively].

Conclusions

Urinary Emmprin, MMP‐9 and TIMP‐1 may be noninvasive potential biomarkers that could be used for long‐term follow‐up of children with UPJ narrowing on conservative treatment to determine those who might develop obstruction.
Assessing clinical urgency via telephone in rural Australia
Authors: Knight Kaye , Kenny Amanda , Endacott Ruth
Published: December 2014

When people telephone rural health services with unscheduled healthcare needs, rural nurses manage these telephone presentations. However, there is professional controversy surrounding the practice, and paucity in research outside formalized telephone triage services. This article reports on a qualitative study exploring the actions nurses take when people telephone rural health services with unscheduled healthcare needs and the factors that influence these actions. Registered nurses from five rural health services in Victoria, Australia, participated in telephone interviews or focus groups during 2010 and 2011. Descriptions of telephone interactions reflected a structured approach to providing care. Participants described strategies to minimize clinical risk while brokering competing needs and finite resources to achieve a “best outcome” for all stakeholders. This study reveals a gap in policy and practice support for rural nurses providing care via telephone and differentiates this rural nursing practice from that of formalized telephone triage.
Farmers' Professional Dialogue Networks and Dynamics of Change: The Case of ICP and No‐Tillage Adoption in Burgundy (France)
Authors: Compagnone Claude , Hellec Florence
Published: December 2014

In the research reported here, we studied three cereal‐growing areas in the French region of Burgundy, concentrating on the dynamics of change with regard to farmers' use of pesticides and new soil management practices on the one hand and on farmers' professional dialogue networks on the other. Our aim in this article is to show the link between the network types and the dynamics of change in their members' behavior. Three types of coalitional networks appeared. In the “mainly bonding” network, the roles of innovator and early adopter were the most highly shared among farmers. In the “mainly bridging” network, these roles were occupied by a single person holding a central position within the network. In the “bonding and bridging” structure, the roles of innovator and early adopter were held by different individuals. We further observed that the farmers developing integrated crop protection techniques occupied different positions from those implementing complete no‐tillage, which is not promoted by technical advisory services. A rivalry thus appears to emerge between these two orientations in which the farmers are engaged within the network.
Doppler Ultrasound: A Powerful Tool for Vascular Access Surveillance
Authors: Guedes Marques Maria , Ibeas José , Botelho Carlos , Maia Pedro , Ponce Pedro
Published: December 2014

National Kidney Foundation Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (NKF KDOQI) guidelines recommend Doppler ultrasound (DU) for surveillance of vascular access (VA), but trials have not been unanimous about its benefit on VA patency. The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of DU for patency, as well as to highlight additional data provided by this method. A transversal study was conducted to evaluate DU method in correlation with BTM using paired t‐test and Pearson test. Ultrasonography evaluation was performed with a Siemens Acuson X150 Ultrasound device and BTM‐Qa with the Blood Temperature Monitor BTM®. Access blood flow (Qa) values were correlated with several factors by nonparametric tests. Fifty hemodialysis patients were included, with mean age of 64.5 ± 13.7 years; durations of hemodialysis and VA were 51.4 ± 47.3 and 47.6 ± 42.1 months, respectively. The mean difference between DU and BTM flows was 20.5 ml/minute (p 0.624). Pearson correlation was 0.851 (p < 0.001). DU‐Qa values varied significantly with several factors: type of VA, reason for DU referral, the presence of artery stenosis, and the location and number of stenosis. BTM‐Qa values only varied significantly with the presence and number of stenosis. Various silent abnormalities were detected with DU. DU provides accurate anatomic and hemodynamic data to further knowledge regarding the etiology of stenosis and other abnormalities that compromise VA well functioning.
Lithospheric mantle signatures as revealed by zircon Hf isotopes of Late Triassic post‐collisional plutons from the central Korean peninsula, and their tectonic implications
Authors: Cheong Chang‐Sik , Kim Namhoon , Jo Hui Je , Cho Moonsup , Choi Sung Hi , Zhou Hongying , Geng Jian‐zhen
Published: December 2014

The Mesozoic tectonic architecture of the Korean peninsula is largely governed by the continental collision between the North and South China blocks. Zircon Hf isotopic compositions presented in this study and whole‐rock geochemical and Sr‐Nd isotope data in the literature collectively suggest that the lithophile‐elements‐enriched signature of the Late Triassic post‐collisional plutons from the Gyeonggi massif in central Korea is a primary feature inherited from the metasomatized mantle lithosphere. Highly negative zircon εHf (t) values (−23 to −19) of plutons from the middle and eastern parts of the massif indicate an ancient metasomatism of their mantle source. Distinctly higher zircon εHf (t) values (−15 to −12) from the southwestern plutons are ascribed to a contribution from an accreted component of the South China‐like block. The involvement of asthenospheric mantle is not recognized in zircons from either group. The implications of these isotopic features are discussed in the context of Mesozoic collisional tectonics.