bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epithelioid sarcoma‐like (pseudomyogenic) hemangioendothelioma, clinically mimicking dermatofibroma, diagnosed by skin biopsy in a 30‐year‐old man
Authors: Stuart Lauren N. , Gardner Jerad M. , Lauer Scott R. , Monson David K. , Parker Douglas C. , Edgar Mark A.
Published: July 2013

Epithelioid sarcoma‐like (pseudomyogenic) hemangioendothelioma (ESHE) represents a rare soft tissue and bone tumor that typically presents as nodule(s) in the distal extremities of young adults. The nodules traverse several tissue planes simultaneously and can involve the dermis, subcutis, skeletal muscle and bone. ESHE shares clinical and microscopic features with epithelioid sarcoma (ES), and, accordingly, is commonly misdiagnosed as ES. However, unlike ES, which has a poor prognosis, ESHE commonly follows an indolent course. Herein, we report a case of ESHE diagnosed by skin biopsy that clinically mimicked a dermatofibroma. We also provide clinical photographs of the lesions in various stages of development, representing information that has not been previously published, to our knowledge.
Alterations in frontostriatal pathways in children born very preterm
Authors: Duerden Emma G , Card Dallas , Lax Ilyse D , Donner Elizabeth J , Taylor Margot J
Published: July 2013

Aim

Children born very preterm (<32wks' gestation) are at risk of white matter injury, particularly in frontostriatal pathways that mediate executive functioning. However, it is unclear whether very preterm children without evidence of neonatal brain injury manifest long‐term white matter microstructural differences once they reach school age and if this is related to cognitive impairments.

Method

Twenty school‐aged children born very preterm (11 males, nine females; mean age 8y 6mo, standard error [SE] 1.68mo, range 7y 7mo–9y 6mo; gestational age range 24–30wks, mean gestational age 26.9wks, SE 0.4wk; birthweight 988g, SE 46g, range 570–1424g) without evidence of neonatal brain injury, and 20 sex‐ and age‐matched term‐born children (mean age 8y 4.8mo, SE 1.92mo; range 7y 2mo–9y‐10.8mo) underwent neurodevelopmental assessment and diffusion tensor imaging.

Results

Fractional anisotropy, mean diffusivity, axial diffusivity, and radial diffusivity were calculated within all white matter pathways and within frontostriatal projections. Children born preterm had decreased fractional anisotropy in the territories of the left external capsule, superior longitudinal fasciculus, uncinate fasciculus, and inferior fronto‐occipital fasciculus. Measures of intelligence were negatively correlated with frontostriatal fractional anisotropy only in males born preterm.

Interpretation

Results indicate that very preterm‐born children exhibit white matter disturbances that persist into middle childhood, with potential sex differences in the association between these white matter alterations and cognitive function.
Q‐bank, a database with information for identification of plant quarantine plant pest and diseases
Authors: Bonants P. , Edema M. , Robert V.
Published: July 2013

This paper describes the database Q‐bank (www.q-bank.eu). This freely accessible database contains data on plant pathogenic quarantine organisms to allow fast and reliable identification. Development of accurate identification tools for plant pests is vital to support European Plant Health Policies. Council Directive 2000 ⁄ 29 ⁄EC lists approximately 300 entries representing a large number of species (e.g. non‐European Tephritids contains approximately 3500 species) for which protective measures, against introduction and their spread within the European Community, need to be taken. The risk of introduction of pests into the European Union is increasing because of the increase in the volumes, commodity types and origins of trade, the introduction of new crops, the continued expansion of the EU, the numbers of international travellers and the impact of climate change. Identifying pests (in particular new emerging pests) requires staff with specialised skills in all disciplines (mycology, bacteriology etc.), which is only possible within large centralised laboratory facilities. Expertise in taxonomy, phytopathology and other fields in plant health, which are vital for sustaining sound public policy on phytosanitary issues, are under threat. Sharing knowledge on regulated and non‐regulated pests is necessary to manage a cost‐effective and efficient plant health system in the context of expanding globalisation of trade in plant material.
Tomato can be a latent carrier of ‘Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum’, the causal agent of potato zebra chip disease
Authors: Li X. , Nie J. , Arsenault H. , Hammill D. L. , Xu H. , De Boer S. H.
Published: July 2013

‘Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum’ was recently described as the causal agent of potato zebra chip disease. This pathogen occurs in North America, New Zealand, and Northern Europe on various crops, and may spread to other potato growing regions. Observation on ‘Ca. L. solanacearum’‐infected tomato and potato plants propagated in growth chambers over 5 years indicated that tomato plants (cvs Moneymaker and Roma) can be a latent carrier of ‘Ca. L. solanacearum’. Tomato plants graft‐inoculated with scions from latently infected tomato plants remained symptomless, but tested positive in a species specific PCR assay. ‘Ca. L. solanacearum’ was consistently detected in the top, middle and bottom portion of the symptomless tomato plants, including stem, petiole, midrib, vein, flowers and fruits. In tomato fruits, ‘Ca. L. solanacearum’ was evenly distributed in the tissues at the peduncle and style ends, as well as in the pericarp, and columella placenta tissues. This is the first report that ‘Ca. L. solanacearum’ is present in a plant reproductive organ. In contrast, potato plants (cvs. Jemseg, Atlantic, Shepody, Frontier Russet, Russet Burbank, Red Pontiac, and Russet Norkotah) grafted with scions from the same latently infected tomato plants resulted in typical symptoms of purple top, leaf scorch, and other disease symptoms in plants and brown discoloration in the vascular ring and medullary rays in tubers.
Quality control in bioassays used in screening for plant viruses
Authors: Roenhorst J. W. , Botermans M. , Verhoeven J. T. J.
Published: July 2013

Test plants are often used for broad screening for plant viruses. Mechanical inoculation of a series of test plants enables generic detection of mechanically transmitted viruses in only 1 assay. Moreover, such an assay is suitable for known as well as unknown viruses and their variants. However, in comparison to serological and molecular methods, quality control in bioassays is almost never addressed. The system of positive and negative controls, blind samples and proficiency tests is applicable, provided that a broader interpretation of positive and negative controls is used. For validation, performance criteria can only be determined for individual viruses. However, results can often be extrapolated. Sensitivity is addressed by dilution and expressed as a relative value. Specificity has to consider the virus species and the plant species to be tested. Selectivity mostly depends on the plant species tested, because some hosts contain components that inhibit transmission. Repeatability and reproducibility, determined for a limited number of samples, appears high, as also substantiated by the authors' experience. This paper details how EPPO Standards on quality control were implemented by the National Plant Protection Organization of the Netherlands (NPPO‐NL). This information will be of use for other laboratories that wish to introduce quality control in bioassays for virus testing.
Test performance study of diagnostic procedures for identification and detection of Gibberella circinata in pine seeds in the framework of a EUPHRESCO project
Authors: Ioos R. , Annesi T. , Fourrier C. , Saurat C. , Chandelier A. , Inghelbrecht S. , Diogo E. L. F. , Pérez‐Sierra A.‐M. , Barnes A. V. , Paruma K. , Adam M. , van Rijswick P. , Riccioni L.
Published: July 2013

Gibberella circinata (anamorph Fusarium circinatum) is a harmful fungus infecting pine trees that has been subject to European Union emergency phytosanitary measures since 2007. This fungus is spread over long distances primarily via pine seeds, consequently reliable detection tools and methods are needed to test pine seed lots imported and marketed in the EU. Several detection methods are available in the scientific literature but very limited validation data is available. For that purpose, one European EUPHRESCO project called ‘Gibcir‐Diagseed’ was launched, involving 10 countries. This project aimed to select and validate one or more diagnostic procedures targeting this pest via inter‐laboratory tests, as well as a suitable sampling method. Performance criteria were calculated for three procedures chosen by participants: isolation followed by morphological characterization, isolation followed by conventional PCR and biological enrichment followed by real‐time PCR. The results showed that all three procedures provided acceptable performance criteria but also demonstrated that none of them could generate 100% of correct results. Regarding the sampling issue, the National Plant Protection Organizations consultation enabled an agreement to be reached on the number of seeds to be tested: 400 per sample, for a 95% confidence level that an infection of at least 1% will be detected.
Implementation of International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures no. 7 Phytosanitary Certification System and no. 12 Phytosanitary Certificates
Authors: Brunel S. , Horn N. M. , Unger J.‐G. , Arnitis R.
Published: July 2013

The International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 7 Phytosanitary Certification System and No. 12 Phytosanitary Certificates are crucial Standards for the functioning of a reliable and efficient exchange of information between National Plant Protection Organizations (NPPOs) on consignments moving in international trade. These two Standards were revised in 2011 and they may in some cases be implemented in different ways. The European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organization (EPPO), in partnership with the Near East Plant Protection Organization (NEPPO), organized the Workshop ‘Toward a harmonized implementation of International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures no. 7 Phytosanitary Certification System and no. 12 Phytosanitary Certificates in Antalya (TR) from 20 to 22 November 2012 to share experiences and discuss practices on how these two standards are being implemented. Thirty‐six participants from 22 countries attended this workshop. Their discussions on the implementations of ISPM 7 and ISPM 12 concerned various aspects of the certification system and of the use of phytosanitary certificates, and are summarized here. Aspects of the certification system included staffing, information on importing countries’ phytosanitary requirements, models of phytosanitary certificates and record‐keeping; aspects of phytosanitary certificates included the purpose of the certificates, attachments, certified copies, alterations, replacements, issuance after dispatch, means of conveyance, description of the products, additional declarations (including standardized wording), how to deal with re‐export and transit situations, and the use of electronic certificates. The workshop concluded with recommendations and observations on the implementation of ISPM 7 and ISPM 12.
Epitrix similaris and Epitrix cucumeris in Portugal: damage patterns in potato and suitability of potential host plants for reproduction
Authors: Boavida C. , Giltrap N. , Cuthbertson A. G. S. , Northing P.
Published: July 2013

The potato flea beetle species Epitrix similaris and Epitrix cucumeris were identified in mainland Portugal in 2009. This was the first finding of the species E. similaris in the EPPO region, and the first report of the species E. cucumeris, established in the Atlantic Islands of Azores (Portugal) for three decades, in the mainland EPPO zone. Preliminary information on the damage patterns caused by E. similaris and E. cucumeris on potato and their host plant preferences is provided. Leaf feeding by the adults causes the characteristic shot‐hole pattern common to flea beetles. The larvae of both species develop on the root system and cause damage to the tubers. In field experiments, tuber damage by E. similaris presented three patterns: superficial tracks (serpentines), black splinters, and shallow holes. In the laboratory E. cucumeris was observed to be able to feed on very small immature tubers, causing serpentines and holes as well. However, in some cases it developed exclusively on roots. The adults of both Epitrix species hardly fed and reproduced on sweet pepper plants but fed and reproduced on the remaining five solanaceous plants tested (aubergine, Datura stramonium, tomato, potato and Solanum nigrum). E. similaris produced a much higher number of progeny on potato and on S. nigrum than on the other host plants. E. cucumeris produced more offspring on S. nigrum than on the other host‐plants.
Clinical, radiographic, ultrasonographic and computed tomographic features of nonseptic osteitis of the axial border of the proximal sesamoid bones
Authors: Vanderperren K. , Bergman H. J. , Spoormakers T. J. P. , Pille F. , Duchateau L. , Puchalski S. M. , Saunders J. H.
Published: July 2013

Reasons for performing study

Lysis of the axial aspect of equine proximal sesamoid bones (PSBs) is a rare condition reported to have septic or traumatic origins. Limited information exists regarding imaging of nonseptic axial osteitis of a PSB.

Objectives

To report the clinical, radiographic, ultrasonographic, computed tomographic and intra‐arterial contrast‐enhanced computed tomographic abnormalities in horses with axial nonseptic osteitis of a PSB.

Study design

Retrospective clinical study.

Methods

Eighteen horses diagnosed with nonseptic osteitis of the axial border of a PSB between 2007 and 2012 were reviewed retrospectively. Case details, clinical examination, radiographic, ultrasonographic, computed tomographic and intra‐arterial/intra‐articular contrast‐enhanced computed tomographic features were recorded, when available. Radiographic, ultrasonographic and computed tomographic evaluations of the fetlock region had been performed on 18, 15 and 9 horses, respectively. The effect of the degree of lysis on the grade and duration of lameness was determined.

Results

All horses had chronic unilateral lameness, 4 with forelimb and 14 with hindlimb signs. On radiographs, lysis was identified in both PSBs in 14 horses, one PSB in 3 horses and in one horse no lysis was identified. The degree of osteolysis was variable. Ultrasonography identified variably sized irregularities of the bone surface and alteration in echogenicity of the palmar/plantar ligament (PL). All horses undergoing computed tomographic examination (n = 9) had biaxial lysis. The lesions were significantly longer and deeper on computed tomographic images compared with radiographic images. Intra‐arterial contrast‐enhanced computed tomography may reveal moderate to marked contrast enhancement of the PL. There was no significant effect of the degree of lysis on the grade and duration of lameness.

Conclusions

Lesions of nonseptic axial osteitis of a PSB can be identified using a combination of radiography and ultrasonography. Computed tomography provides additional information regarding the extent of the pathology.
Comparison of short‐ and long‐term complications and survival following jejunojejunostomy, jejunoileostomy and jejunocaecostomy in 112 horses: 2005–2010
Authors: Stewart S. , Southwood L. L. , Aceto H. W.
Published: July 2013

Reasons for performing the study

There is disagreement among surgeons over whether jejunoileostomy (JI) or jejunocaecostomy (JC) is the better method of anastomosis following proximal ileal resection.

Objective

To compare short‐ and long‐term complications and outcome in horses undergoing jejunojejunostomy (JJ), JI and JC and to test the hypotheses that a higher proportion of horses undergoing JI would have short‐term complications and mortality compared with horses undergoing JC or JJ and that JC would be associated with a higher long‐term mortality and occurrence of colic.

Study design

Retrospective cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Medical records of horses undergoing celiotomy for a small intestinal obstruction and JJ, JI or JC from 2005 to 2010 were reviewed. Post operative complications were recorded. Short‐term outcome was alive vs. dead at hospital discharge and was analysed using a Chi‐squared test. Long‐term follow‐up was obtained and a Kaplan–Meier estimate of the survivor function was performed.

Results

There were 112 horses included. A higher proportion of JI horses had a repeat celiotomy during hospitalisation compared with horses undergoing JC. The number of horses alive at hospital discharge was not different between groups: JJ 79% (95% confidence interval [CI] 68–90%), JI 78% (95% CI 61–96%), JC 83% (95% CI 71–96%). Among horses discharged with long‐term follow‐up, more horses had colic after JC compared with JJ or JI. Long‐term post discharge survival based on the Kaplan–Meier survivor function was lower for horses undergoing JC than JJ or JI (P = 0.04).

Conclusion

While there was no difference in short‐term outcome between groups, more horses with JI underwent a repeat celiotomy during hospitalisation. Horses with a JC were more likely to have long‐term complications with colic. Horses that were subjected to euthanasia because of colic within 12 months of hospital discharge either had a JC or repeat celiotomy. The results suggest that, when possible, a JI may be the preferred method of anastomosis based on more favourable survival and lower occurrence of colic long term.
Energy allocation patterns in a multiple spawning sunfish: evidence for an income‐based reproductive strategy
Authors: Beuchel J. S. , Marschall E. A. , Aday D. D.
Published: July 2013

Timing of reproduction is an important life‐history trait that varies among species as a function of energy allocation strategy, particularly as individuals are influenced by seasonal variations prior to and during the reproductive season. This study investigated size‐ and sex‐based seasonal patterns of energy allocation in bluegill, Lepomis macrochirus (Rafinesque), a species that spawns repeatedly throughout the summer, by quantifying gonad, liver and mesenteric fat masses. Results indicate that bluegill delay production of gonad tissue until the onset of the spawning season and use an ‘income spawning’ approach. Comparisons of energetic trends with crappies, Pomoxis annularis (Rafinesque) and P. nigromaculatus (Lesueur), a confamilial species of relatively similar size and morphology that spawns in the spring, highlight the flexibility of energy allocation patterns even among relatively similar fishes and shed light on bluegill life‐history strategies.
Long‐term and contemporary environmental conditions as determinants of the species composition of bog organisms
Authors: Jiroušek Martin , Poulíčková Aloisie , Kintrová Kateřina , Opravilová Věra , Hájková Petra , Rybníček Kamil , Kočí Martin , Bergová Klára , Hnilica Radek , Mikulášková Eva , Králová Štěpánka , Hájek Michal
Published: July 2013

Environmental change alters ecosystem processes, minding biogeochemical cycles. These changes are accompanied by shifts in species composition. We predicted that long‐term averages of environmental variables would explain more of the variability in species composition than short‐term assessments, but that this difference would be weaker for short‐lived organisms. We further predicted that short‐lived organisms with rapid dispersal would reflect recent environmental change.

In 51 plots of ombrotrophic summit bogs in two mountain ranges of Central Europe, we sampled the contemporary species composition of vascular plants, bryophytes, diatoms and testate amoebae. In the same plots, water chemistry (pH, conductivity, Ca, Mg, Na, K, Al, Fe, Pb, Hg, Zn, humic acids, ammonium, nitrates, nitrites, phosphates, sulphates and chlorides) and water level were monitored three times per year for 15 years. We tested species–environmental relationships using Mantel tests and canonical correspondence analyses with Monte Carlo permutation tests for overall, within‐bog and between‐bog effects.

The species composition of all four taxa changed along a natural gradient of water level. Diatoms and testate amoebae also changed along a pH/calcium gradient, which has appeared recently in one of the study regions because of aerial liming of forests. Only diatoms reflected variations in humic acid concentration. Spot measurements of environmental factors were sufficient to describe the general pattern while significant effects of phosphates for diatoms and bryophytes, nitrites for vascular plants, potassium for vascular plants and testate amoebae, sodium for all groups except diatoms and sulphates for bryophytes and testate amoebae were evident only by using medium‐ or long‐term averages.

Although only long‐term averages of some environmental variables were sufficient to explain species compositions, major patterns were revealed by single (spot) samples. The explanatory power of long‐ and short‐term environmental conditions did not differ substantially between micro‐ and macroorganisms, although short‐lived and well‐dispersed microorganisms reflected the new pH/calcium gradient.
Prevalent inhibitors in haemophilia B subjects enrolled in the Universal Data Collection database
Authors: Puetz J. , Soucie J. M. , Kempton C. L. , Monahan P. E. ,   Hemophilia Treatment Center Network (HTCN) Investigators
Published: July 2013

Several risk factors for inhibitors have recently been described for haemophilia A. It has been assumed that similar risk factors are also relevant for haemophilia B, but there is limited data to confirm this notion. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of and risk factors associated with inhibitors in haemophilia B. The database of the Universal Data Collection (UDC) project of the Centers for Disease Control for the years 1998–2011 was queried to determine the prevalence of inhibitors in haemophilia B subjects. In addition, disease severity, race/ethnicity, age, factor exposure and prophylaxis usage were evaluated to determine their impact on inhibitor prevalence. Of the 3785 male subjects with haemophilia B enrolled in the UDC database, 75 (2%) were determined to have an inhibitor at some point during the study period. Severe disease (OR 13.1, 95% CI 6.2–27.7), black race (OR 2.2, 95% CI 1.2–4.1), and age <11 years (OR 2.5, 95% CI 1.5–4.0) were found to be significantly associated with having an inhibitor. There was insufficient data to determine if type of factor used and prophylaxis were associated with inhibitors. Inhibitors in haemophilia B are much less prevalent than haemophilia A, especially in patients with mild disease. Similar factors associated with inhibitors in haemophilia A also seem to be present for haemophilia B. The information collected by this large surveillance project did not permit evaluation of potential risk factors related to treatment approaches and exposures, and additional studies will be required.
Comparison of preparation of curved root canals with Hyflex CM and Revo‐S rotary nickel–titanium instruments
Authors: Bürklein S. , Börjes L. , Schäfer E.
Published: July 2013

Aim

To compare the shaping ability of three different nickel–titanium rotary instruments during the preparation of curved root canals in extracted teeth.

Methodology

A total of 60 root canals with curvatures ranging between 25° and 35° were divided into three groups of 20 canals. Based on radiographs taken prior to instrumentation, the groups were balanced with respect to the angle and the radius of canal curvature. Canals were prepared to a final apical size of 35 using Mtwo, Hyflex CM, and Revo‐S. Using pre‐ and post‐instrumentation radiographs, straightening of the canal curvatures was determined with a computer image analysis program. Preparation time, changes of working length and instrument failures were also recorded. These data were analysed statistically using anova and Student–Newman–Keuls test.

Results

During preparation, no file fractured. Mtwo and Hyflex CM maintained the original canal curvature significantly better than Revo‐S (P < 0.05). Instrumentation with Mtwo and Hyflex CM was significantly faster than with Revo‐S and resulted in less loss of working length (P < 0.05), whilst no significant differences were obtained between Mtwo and Hyflex CM (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Under the conditions of this study, Mtwo and Hyflex CM respected the original canal curvature well and were safe to use. The use of Revo‐S instruments required more time to prepare the curved canals and resulted in more pronounced canal straightening compared with Mtwo and Hyflex CM.
Management of chronic osteomyelitis of the tibia with life‐threatening complications under negative pressure wound therapy and isolation of Helcococcus kunzii
Authors: Stanger Katrin M , Albert Frauke , Kneser Ulrich , Bogdan Christian , Horch Raymund E
Published: July 2013

We report the case of an 86‐year‐old man with severe wound infection originating from a chronic crural ulcer of the lower limb, which under negative pressure wound therapy led to excessive tissue necrosis and perforation of the anterior tibial artery. A swab taken 10 and 7 days preoperatively was positive for Helcococcus kunzii. H. kunzii has been described as a potentially pathogenic organism. The questions whether the negative pressure wound therapy itself caused the bleeding or the negative pressure wound therapy, which generates an anaerobic atmosphere, has triggered the growth and invasion of the facultative anaerobic bacterium H. kunzii and owing to the infection the artery perforated or whether the bacteria has no influence at all remain currently unanswered. After surgical debridement the signs of infection were completely eliminated, and a free musculocutaneous flap led to rapid healing of the wound. Following which H. kunzii was no longer detectable.
Regional‐scale patterns and predictors of species richness and abundance across twelve major tropical inter‐reef taxa
Authors: Sutcliffe P. R. , Mellin C. , Pitcher C. R. , Possingham H. P. , Caley M. J.
Published: July 2013

Species richness and abundance are biodiversity metrics widely used to describe and estimate changes in biodiversity. Studies of marine species richness and abundance typically focus on one, or just a few, taxa. Consequently, it is currently not possible to understand the performance of predictors of species richness and abundance across marine taxa. Using a taxonomically comprehensive dataset of twelve major taxa of flora and fauna from eight phyla sampled from the inter‐reef seabed region of the Great Barrier Reef, Australia, we used boosted regression trees to test the performance of fourteen environmental and spatial predictors of species richness and abundance. Sediment composition predicted richness best for all taxa: gravel contributed up to 39% relative influence for one group and all taxa had low richness in muddy habitats. Sea surface temperature, seabed current shear stress, depth and latitude were also influential predictors for species richness for eight groups. Sediment was frequently an influential predictor for abundance also, while distance to domain (reef/coast) and longitude were relatively influential for six taxa. Within‐site richness was correlated between nearly all pairs of taxa, as was within‐site abundance, however ρ values were low. Overall, model performance was high, explaining up to 62% deviance of species richness, and 38% of abundance. Typically, deviance explained was greater for richness than abundance and may indicate that some drivers of species richness operate independently of any effects on species richness mediated by their effect on abundance. Deviance explained differed most between richness and abundance for bryozoans (23.3% difference) and soft corals (15.2% difference). While sediments were consistently the best predictors across all taxa, the inconsistent influence of all other predictors across taxonomic groups, as well as the low correlation of richness and abundance across taxonomic groups, cautions against predicting regional patterns of species richness and abundance from few taxa.
Phylogeography: spanning the ecology‐evolution continuum
Authors: Marske Katharine Ann , Rahbek Carsten , Nogués‐Bravo David
Published: July 2013

Synthesis of ecological and evolutionary concepts and tools has led to improved understanding of how diversification, dispersal, community assembly, long‐term coexistence and extinction shape patterns of biological diversity. Phylogeography, with its focus on Quaternary interactions within and between populations, can help elucidate the processes acting between the evolutionary time‐scales on which species arise and the ecological time‐scales on which members of an assemblage interact with each other and their environment. Still, it has yet to be widely incorporated in that synthesis. Here, we highlight three areas where integration of phylogeography with ecological and evolutionary approaches can provide new insights into key questions. First, phylogeography can help clarify the roles of isolation, niche conservatism and environmental stability in generating patterns of alpha‐ and beta‐diversity. Second, phylogeography can help isolate the effects of Quaternary dispersal limitation from other factors driving community assembly and spatial turnover. Third, phylogeography can help identify key processes leading to and resulting from extinction events, including the population dynamics of species range reduction and its effects on the strength and temporal flexibility of networks of species interactions. We conclude with an outlook on the data‐gathering protocols necessary for this collaborative, interdisciplinary research agenda.
recluster: an unbiased clustering procedure for beta‐diversity turnover
Authors: Dapporto Leonardo , Ramazzotti Matteo , Fattorini Simone , Talavera Gerard , Vila Roger , Dennis Roger L. H.
Published: July 2013

When dissimilarity matrices of faunistic and phylogenetic beta‐diversity turnover indices are projected in dendrograms, a high frequency of ties and zero values produces trees whose topology and bootstrap support are affected by the order of areas in the original presence–absence matrix. We tested the magnitude of this bias and developed R functions to obtain consensus trees after shuffling of matrix row order and applied this algorithm to a multiscale bootstrap procedure. Our functions not only solve the bias of row order but, owing to varying support for different bootstrap scales, reveal fundamental characteristics about the structure of species assemblages.
The Impact of the Within My Reach Relationship Training on Relationship Skills and Outcomes for Low‐Income Individuals
Authors: Antle Becky , Sar Bibhuti , Christensen Dana , Karam Eli , Ellers Fran , Barbee Anita , van Zyl Michel
Published: July 2013

A federal grant was awarded to provide the Within My Reach healthy relationships curriculum to low‐income, at‐risk individuals involved with various social service agencies. The effectiveness of this curriculum was evaluated for 202 participants through measures of training and relationship outcomes pre‐, immediately post‐ and 6 months posttraining. Participants experienced high levels of training satisfaction; significant increases in knowledge, communication/conflict resolution skills, and relationship quality; as well as a trend in the reduction of relationship violence. An important implication of this research is that MFTs may broaden their service delivery to at‐risk individuals by collaborating with community agencies to adapt established relationship enhancement programs, evidence‐based tools, and principles that complement traditional couples therapy.
Taxonomic implications of pollen exine morphology in infrageneric classification of Scutellaria (Lamiaceae)
Authors: Jamzad Z. , Hasani‐Nejad M.
Published: July 2013

Scutellaria L. in Lamiaceae subfamily Scutellarioideae is a subcosmopolitan genus with about 360 species. According to the latest subgeneric classification, two subgenera are recognized: S. subgen. Scutellaria and S. subgen. Apeltanthus. We studied pollen grains from 29 species of Scutellaria belonging to both subgenera and from both the Old and the New World to evaluate their taxonomic importance for the infrageneric classification of the genus. Pollen grains were acetolysed and studied by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and light microscope (LM). All examined pollen grains are isopolar, tricolpate, suboblate, oblate spheroidal, prolate spheroidal to subprolate. The exine is mainly bireticulate perforate, but with variations in lumina shape and size as well as perforation size and uniformity. Based on the exine sculpturing, two subtypes are recognized within the bireticulate pollen type. In subtype I the primary reticulum of the exine consists of angular muri; the lumen has an irregular polygonal shape and the perforations of the secondary reticulum are more or less uniform and of the same size. This pollen subtype was observed in species of subgenus Scutellaria, sectt. Scutellaria p.p., Anaspis, Perilomia and Salazaria. In subtype II the primary reticulum of the exine consists of a more or less curved murus; the lumen is rounded or obtusely angular and the secondary reticulum consists of one or more large central perforations surrounded by some smaller ones. This pollen subtype was observed in species of subgenus Scutellaria sectt. Scutellaria p.p., Salviifoliae and in all members of subgenus Apeltanthus. The results of this study reveal that the exine ornamentation is a diagnostic character useful for the infrageneric classification of Scutellaria.
Potentilla jiaozishanensis sp. nov. (sect. Leptostylae, Rosaceae) from southwest China
Authors: Liu Jiu‐Dong , Wang Huan‐Chong , He Zhao‐Rong
Published: July 2013

Potentilla jiaozishanensis, a distinct new species of Rosaceae from Yunnan, China, is described and illustrated. Morphologically, it is closely related to P. stenophylla var. stenophylla but clearly differs from the latter by its bidentate leaflets, lanceolate epicalyx‐segments that are longer than the sepals, villose ovaries and achenes. Moreover, the pollen grains of P. jiaozishanensis are markedly different from those of P. stenophylla var. stenophylla in size and shape. The newly described species is endemic to the Jiaozishan Mountains, southwest China.
Crossoglossa frontinoensis sp. nov. (Orchidaceae, Malaxideae) from Colombia
Authors: Szlachetko Dariusz L. , Kolanowska Marta
Published: July 2013

A new species of the genus Crossoglossa, C. frontinoensis Szlach. & Kolan. sp. nov., is described and illustrated based on Colombian material. The new species appears to be similar to Crossoglossa tipuloides, but it is easily separable by distinctly narrower lip with pandurate basal part and long‐acuminate apical part, much narrower, long‐acuminate sepals and petals and narrower leaves. Information about its habitat, ecology and distribution is provided.
Spathacanthus magdalenae sp. nov. (Acanthaceae), a riparian forest species from Veracruz, Mexico
Authors: Castillo‐Campos Gonzalo , García‐Franco José G. , Martínez María Luisa
Published: July 2013

Spathacanthus magdalenae Cast.‐Campos (Acanthaceae) is described and illustrated as a new riparian forest species from central Veracruz and from the eastern slopes of the volcano Cofre de Perote, Mexico. The new species is similar to Spathacanthus parviflorus, but differs in wider leaves and longer corolla tube. A key to all four species of Spathacanthus is provided.
Growth characteristics of Adiantum reniforme var. sinensis and A. capillus‐veneris in response to light and soil moisture
Authors: Liao Jian‐Xiong , Jiang Ming‐Xi , Huang Han‐Dong
Published: July 2013

Adiantum reniforme var. sinensis (Adiantaceae) is an endangered fern endemic to the Three Gorges region in southwest China. To elucidate possible ecophysiological mechanisms restricting its distribution, effects of the availability of light (28%, 14% and 7% of open field) and soil moisture (60% and 40% of field capacity) on dry matter production and allocation, leaf morphology and water use efficiency (WUE) were examined in A. reniforme var. sinensis and its widespread congener A. capillus‐veneris. Both species had lower root/shoot ratio (R/S) and higher specific leaf area (SLA) when grown at low light. However, A. reniforme var. sinensis showed less plasticity for total leaf area (LA) and leaf area ratio (LAR) than A. capillus‐veneris, and its root mass, total mass and WUE decreased as light availability decreased. Under water stress, all traits of both species except WUE were significantly affected. However, drought stress decreased total mass of A. capillus‐veneris but did not have a significant effect on A. reniforme var. sinensis. Compared with A. capillus‐veneris, A. reniforme var. sinensis had significantly higher R/S but lower values for other analyzed traits. These results suggest that A. reniforme var. sinensis is relatively superior in drought tolerance but inferior at low light, allowing it to persist in habitats with low soil moisture and high light availability but with few coexisting species present.
The Southwestern Indian Ocean as a potential marine evolutionary hotspot: perspectives from comparative phylogeography of reef brittle‐stars
Authors: Hoareau Thierry B. , Boissin Emilie , Paulay Gustav , Bruggemann J. Henrich
Published: July 2013

Aim

The global biodiversity crisis requires the identification of regions with high evolutionary potential, i.e. evolutionary hotspots (evospots). We created an analytical framework based on comparative phylogeography and coalescent methods to assess the dynamics of diversification and population persistence in the reef ecosystem of a little‐studied region: the Southwestern Indian Ocean (SWIO).

Location

Coral reefs of the SWIO, with comparative data from the Pacific Ocean.

Methods

We generated sequences of mitochondrial DNA (COI and 16S) for 10 widespread brittle‐stars (345 specimens) from 21 localities (8 in the SWIO). We analysed them by combining comparative phylogeography approaches, coalescent‐based methods, molecular clocks and the concept of evolutionarily significant units (ESUs) to draw conclusions about the drivers of biodiversity in the region.

Results

Cryptic diversity was prevalent, increasing lineage diversity within the 10 nominal species by 70% within the SWIO and by 200% across the Indo‐West Pacific. All seven new SWIO lineages meet the criteria for ESUs and at least six are biological species. We detected likely intraregional diversifications dating to the Plio‐Pleistocene, supporting the SWIO as a generator of biodiversity. Geographical restriction of ESUs, long coalescent times (> 80 ka) and old in situ diversification (> 1 Ma) point to the persistence of populations over multiple glacio‐eustatic cycles. We provide data suggesting demographic expansion during sea‐level high stands. Regional connectivity was lower, and cryptic differentiation higher in lecithotrophs than in planktotrophs.

Main conclusions

The analytical framework based on a biodiversity survey makes it possible to identify evospots by assessing the potential of a region to maintain and generate biodiversity and by evaluating the evolutionary processes and potential drivers at play.
Determinants of Achieving Early Blood Pressure Control with Monotherapy in a Primary Care Setting
Authors: Stewart Simon , Carrington Melinda J. , Swemmer Carla H. , Kurstjens Nicol P. , Brown Alex , Burrell Louise M. , Nelson Mark , Stocks Nigel P. , Jennings Garry L. ,   On behalf of the VIPER‐BP Study Investigators
Published: July 2013

This study sought to identify the determinants of early blood pressure (BP) control associated with monotherapy in hypertensive individuals being managed in the primary care setting. The Valsartan Intensified Primary Care Reduction of Blood Pressure (VIPER‐BP) study, was a multicenter, randomized controlled trial of an intensive approach to BP management. During a standardized run‐in, 2185 participants commenced monotherapy (valsartan 80 mg/d) for 14 to 28 days. A total of 1978 participants aged 59±12 years (60% men) completed the run‐in phase. Of these, 15.1%, 43.5%, and 41.4% participants had an initial BP target of ≤125/75, 130/80, and 140/90 mm Hg, respectively. A total of 416 of 2185 participants (19.0%) subsequently achieved their individual BP target during run‐in with a mean BP change of −22.6±12.1/−12.9±8.2 mm Hg vs −4.2±16.2/−3.0±9.6 mm Hg for the rest (P<.001). These early responders were more likely to be women (adjusted odds ratio, 1.41; 95% confidence interval, 1.10–1.80), had lower BP at baseline, were less likely to have been treated previously (or for less time), and had a less stringent BP target. An initial period of monotherapy achieved BP control in a high proportion of hypertensive individuals with key groups (including women and de novo cases) more likely to show an early BP response.
Validation of a Cumulative Hypersensitivity Index (CHI) for dentine hypersensitivity severity
Authors: Olley Ryan C. , Wilson Ron , Moazzez Rebecca , Bartlett David
Published: July 2013

Aim

This study developed the Schiff Index into a Cumulative Hypersensitivity Index (CHI) to measure dentine hypersensitivity (DH) severity per subject. It validates this score by investigating if it compares to one comprising a percentage score from all tooth surfaces and as a highest score per subject.

Materials and methods

Overall, 350 subjects were recruited from hospital and general practice in south‐east England. Buccal, occlusal and oral Schiff Index scores were collected and percentages calculated based on scores 1, 1 and above, 2 and above and 3. CHI scores and highest Schiff Index scores were also recorded per subject. Spearman correlation coefficients (p‐values) assessed the relationship between CHI scores, Schiff Index percentages and Schiff Index highest per subject.

Results

In subjects with a Schiff Index score of 1 or more on at least one tooth surface (indicating DH was present), correlation of the CHI score to the Schiff Index percentage score was 0.982 (p < 0.001). Correlation of the sextant score to the highest Schiff Index score per subject was 0.963, (p < 0.001). DH was more likely on tooth surfaces with gingival recession (p < 0.001) and without bleeding on probing (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

This study has validated a novel CHI score to indicate DH severity per subject and may help guide clinical management.
Association between diabetes or antidiabetic therapy and lung cancer: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Wang Zhida , Bao Cuiping , Su Cheng , Xu Weili , Luo Hongbin , Chen Liming , Qi Xiuying
Published: July 2013

Aims/Introduction

Diabetes can increase the risk of cancers at several sites, but the association between diabetes and lung cancer remains unclear. We aimed to provide the quantitative estimates for the association between diabetes or antidiabetic treatment and lung cancer risk in the present meta‐analysis.

Materials and Methods

Cohort studies were identified by searching the PubMed database (January 1960 through October 2012) and manually assessing the cited references in the retrieved articles. Study‐specific relative risks (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using a random‐effects model. Study quality was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa scale.

Results

A total of 19 cohort studies were included in the present meta‐analysis. Of these, 14 studies focused on the association between diabetes and lung cancer incidence, and seven studies focused on the association between antidiabetic treatment and lung cancer incidence. Compared with non‐diabetic individuals, diabetic patients do not have an increased risk of lung cancer (RR = 1.04, 95% CI 0.87–1.24). The association between diabetes and lung cancer remained not statistically significant in subgroup analysis stratified by study characteristics, study quality, diabetes ascertainment or important confounders. A null association between insulin or biguanides therapy and lung cancer risk was found. However, the diabetic patients receiving thiazolidinedione (TZD) treatment had a 20% reduced risk of lung cancer than those without TZD treatment.

Conclusions

No association between diabetes and lung cancer risk was found. However, TZD treatment might reduce lung cancer risk in diabetic patients.
Toll‐like receptors in alcoholic liver disease, non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis and carcinogenesis
Authors: Roh Yoon Seok , Seki Ekihiro
Published: July 2013

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Activation of innate immune systems including Toll‐like receptor (TLR) signaling is a key in chronic liver disease. Recent studies suggest that gut microflora‐derived bacterial products (i.e. lipopolysaccharide [LPS], bacterial DNA) and endogenous substances (i.e. high‐mobility group protein B1 [HMGB1], free fatty acids) released from damaged cells activate hepatic TLRs that contribute to the development of alcoholic (ASH) and non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and liver fibrosis. The crucial role of TLR4, a receptor for LPS, has been implicated in the development of ASH, NASH, liver fibrosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. However, the role of other TLRs, such as TLR2 and TLR9 in chronic liver disease remains less clear. In this review, we will discuss the role of TLR2, 4, and 9 in Kupffer cells and hepatic stellate cells in the development of ASH, NASH, and hepatocarcinogenesis.
Forkhead box class O transcription factors in liver function and disease
Authors: Tikhanovich Irina , Cox Josiah , Weinman Steven A.
Published: July 2013

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The forkhead box transcription factor class O (FOXO) family represents a group of transcription factors that is required for a number of stress‐related transcriptional programs including antioxidant response, gluconeogenesis, cell cycle control, apoptosis, and autophagy. The liver utilizes several FOXO‐dependent pathways to adapt to its routine cycles of feeding and fasting and to respond to the stresses induced by disease. FOXO1 is a direct transcriptional regulator of gluconeogenesis, reciprocally regulated by insulin, and has profound effects on hepatic lipid metabolism. FOXO3 is required for antioxidant responses and autophagy and is altered in hepatitis C infection and fatty liver. Emerging evidence suggests dysregulation of FOXO3 in some hepatocellular carcinomas. FOXOs are notable for the extensive number of functionally significant posttranslational modifications that they undergo. Recent advances in our understanding how FOXOs are regulated are providing a more detailed picture of how specific combinations of posttranslational modifications alter both nuclear translocation as well as transcriptional specificity under different conditions. This review summarizes emerging knowledge of FOXO function in the liver, FOXO changes in liver disease, and the posttranslational modifications responsible for these effects.