bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Opposing mechanisms affect taxonomic convergence between tree assemblages during tropical forest succession
Authors: Norden Natalia , Boukili Vanessa , Chao Anne , Ma K. H. , Letcher Susan G. , Chazdon Robin L.
Published: September 2017

Whether successional forests converge towards an equilibrium in species composition remains an elusive question, hampered by high idiosyncrasy in successional dynamics. Based on long‐term tree monitoring in second‐growth (SG) and old‐growth (OG) forests in Costa Rica, we show that patterns of convergence between pairs of forest stands depend upon the relative abundance of species exhibiting distinct responses to the successional gradient. For instance, forest generalists contributed to convergence between SG and OG forests, whereas rare species and old‐growth specialists were a source of divergence. Overall, opposing trends in taxonomic similarity among different subsets of species nullified each other, producing a net outcome of stasis over time. Our results offer an explanation for the limited convergence observed between pairwise communities and suggest that rare species and old‐growth specialists may be prone to dispersal limitation, while the dynamics of generalists and second‐growth specialists are more predictable, enhancing resilience in tropical secondary forests.
Minocycline and matrix metalloproteinase inhibition in acute intracerebral hemorrhage: a pilot study
Authors: Chang J. J. , Kim‐Tenser M. , Emanuel B. A. , Jones G. M. , Chapple K. , Alikhani A. , Sanossian N. , Mack W. J. , Tsivgoulis G. , Alexandrov A. V. , Pourmotabbed T.
Published: September 2017

Background and purpose

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is a devastating cerebrovascular disorder with high morbidity and mortality. Minocycline is a matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9) inhibitor that may attenuate secondary mechanisms of injury in ICH. The feasibility and safety of minocycline in ICH patients were evaluated in a pilot, double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled randomized clinical trial.

Methods

Patients with acute onset (<12 h from symptom onset) ICH and small initial hematoma volume (<30 ml) were randomized to high‐dose (10 mg/kg) intravenous minocycline or placebo. The outcome events included adverse events, change in serial National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score assessments, hematoma volume and MMP‐9 measurements, 3‐month functional outcome (modified Rankin score) and mortality.

Results

A total of 20 patients were randomized to minocycline (n = 10) or placebo (n = 10). The two groups did not differ in terms of baseline characteristics. No serious adverse events or complications were noted with minocycline infusion. The two groups did not differ in any of the clinical and radiological outcomes. Day 5 serum MMP‐9 levels tended to be lower in the minocycline group (372 ± 216 ng/ml vs. 472 ± 235 ng/ml; P = 0.052). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that minocycline was associated with a 217.65 (95% confidence interval −425.21 to −10.10, P = 0.041) decrease in MMP‐9 levels between days 1 and 5.

Conclusions

High‐dose intravenous minocycline can be safely administered to patients with ICH. Larger randomized clinical trials evaluating the efficacy of minocycline and MMP‐9 inhibition in ICH patients are required.
An assessment of Movement Disorder Society Task Force diagnostic criteria for mild cognitive impairment in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Uysal‐Cantürk P. , Hanağası H. A. , Bilgiç B. , Gürvit H. , Emre M.
Published: September 2017

Background and purpose

Cognitive impairment is one of the most disabling non‐motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease. Mild cognitive impairment constitutes a major risk for the development of Parkinson's disease dementia in the course of the disease. A Movement Disorder Society Task Force proposed diagnostic criteria for mild cognitive impairment in Parkinson's disease (PD‐MCI), comprising two operational levels: Level I and Level II. The objective of our study was to test the accuracy of Level I versus Level II diagnostic criteria.

Methods

Eighty‐six consecutive patients with Parkinson's disease were screened and 68 patients without dementia or depression were included in the study. We used the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, Mini‐Mental State Examination and Addenbrooke's Cognitive Evaluation‐R screening tools for Level I and an extensive neuropsychological battery for Level II assessment. We first diagnosed PD‐MCI on the basis of Level II assessment and then calculated sensitivity, specificity and area under the receiver–operator characteristics curve, comparing the performance of the three screening batteries.

Results

None of the three screening batteries proposed for Level I assessment provided satisfactory combined sensitivity and specificity for detecting PD‐MCI, and their performance was similar. Using the Level II criteria, 29 patients (43%) were diagnosed as having PD‐MCI. Lowest cut‐off levels that provided at least 80% sensitivity were 24 for the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, 29 for the Mini‐Mental State Examination and 87 for the Addenbrooke's Cognitive Evaluation‐R. However, specificity levels were below 80% at these cut‐off levels.

Conclusions

We conclude that Level I assessment alone using screening batteries is not sufficiently sensitive/specific to detect PD‐MCI.
Hypermetabolism is a deleterious prognostic factor in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Jésus P. , Fayemendy P. , Nicol M. , Lautrette G. , Sourisseau H. , Preux P.‐M. , Desport J.‐C. , Marin B. , Couratier P.
Published: September 2017

Background and purpose

The aim of this study was to investigate patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in order to determine their nutritional, neurological and respiratory parameters, and survival according to metabolic level.

Methods

Nutritional assessment included resting energy expenditure (REE) measured by indirect calorimetry [hypermetabolism if REE variation (ΔREE) > 10%] and fat mass (FM) using impedancemetry. Neurological assessment included the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale‐Revised score. Survival analysis used the Kaplan–Meier method and multivariate Cox model.

Results

A total of 315 patients were analysed. Median age at diagnosis was 65.9 years and 55.2% of patients were hypermetabolic. With regard to the metabolic level (ΔREE: < 10%, 10–20% and >20%), patients with ΔREE > 20% initially had a lower FM(29.7% vs. 32.1% in those with ΔREE ≤10%; P = 0.0054). During follow‐up, the median slope of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale‐Revised tended to worsen more in patients with ΔREE > 20% (−1.4 vs. −1.0 points/month in those with ΔREE ≤10%; P = 0.07). Overall median survival since diagnosis was 18.4 months. ΔREE > 20% tended to increase the risk of dying compared with ΔREE ≤10% (hazard ratio, 1.33; P = 0.055). In multivariate analysis, an increased REE:FM ratio was independently associated with death (hazard ratio, 1.005; P = 0.001).

Conclusions

Hypermetabolism is present in more than half of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. It modifies the body composition at diagnosis, and patients with hypermetabolism >20% have a worse prognosis than those without hypermetabolism.
Challenges in dengue research: A computational perspective
Authors: Lourenço José , Tennant Warren , Faria Nuno R. , Walker Andrew , Gupta Sunetra , Recker Mario
Published: September 2017

The dengue virus is now the most widespread arbovirus affecting human populations, causing significant economic and social impact in South America and South‐East Asia. Increasing urbanization and globalization, coupled with insufficient resources for control, misguided policies or lack of political will, and expansion of its mosquito vectors are some of the reasons why interventions have so far failed to curb this major public health problem. Computational approaches have elucidated on dengue's population dynamics with the aim to provide not only a better understanding of the evolution and epidemiology of the virus but also robust intervention strategies. It is clear, however, that these have been insufficient to address key aspects of dengue's biology, many of which will play a crucial role for the success of future control programmes, including vaccination. Within a multiscale perspective on this biological system, with the aim of linking evolutionary, ecological and epidemiological thinking, as well as to expand on classic modelling assumptions, we here propose, discuss and exemplify a few major computational avenues—real‐time computational analysis of genetic data, phylodynamic modelling frameworks, within‐host model frameworks and GPU‐accelerated computing. We argue that these emerging approaches should offer valuable research opportunities over the coming years, as previously applied and demonstrated in the context of other pathogens.
Tracking shifts in Atlantic mackerel (Scomber scombrus) larval habitat suitability on the Northeast U.S. Continental Shelf
Authors: McManus M. Conor , Hare Jonathan A. , Richardson David E. , Collie Jeremy S.
Published: September 2017

Climate change has altered the oceanographic environment and subsequently the habitats of marine species. Fish and invertebrate populations’ responses to habitat include movement with latitude and depth to remain within their fundamental niches. The northwest Atlantic mackerel (Scomber scombrus) population has fluctuated over the last century due in part to changes in the environment. We used species distribution models to understand the influence of the physical (temperature) and biological (zooplankton) environment on mackerel larval abundance, and how such relations have determined larval habitat suitability in the Northeast U.S. Shelf. Atlantic mackerel larval presence and abundance correlated with sea temperature and copepod abundances, suggesting that larval survival may be sensitive to specific temperatures and zooplankton prey. Predicted abundances were spatially interpolated to estimate Atlantic mackerel larval suitable habitat. Metrics for habitat quality indicate that the Mid‐Atlantic Bight has become less suitable over time. Since the 1970s, the proportion of Northeast U.S. Shelf suitable habitat located in the Mid‐Atlantic Bight has decreased, as southern New England and the western Gulf of Maine regions have become more suitable. Habitat suitability within the Northeast U.S. Shelf has shifted northeast: from the Mid‐Atlantic Bight‐southern New England border towards the northeast portion of southern New England. While total Northeast U.S. Shelf habitat suitability has decreased since the 1970s, the decline in the time series trend was not statistically significant. Thus, while select ecoregions have decreased in habitat suitability, larval habitat does not appear to be the only contributor to decreases in the U.S. Atlantic mackerel contingent.
Optimizing patient and public involvement (PPI): Identifying its “essential” and “desirable” principles using a systematic review and modified Delphi methodology
Authors: Baines Rebecca L. , Regan de Bere Sam
Published: September 2017

Background

There is international interest in the active involvement of patients and the public. However, consensus on how best to optimize its application is currently unavailable.

Objective

To identify and assess the underlying principles of patient and public involvement (PPI) in health and social care services, research, education and regulation across medicine, dentistry and nursing.

Design

A four‐phase methodology: (i) an extensive systematic review of published and grey literature; (ii) inductive thematic analysis of review findings; (iii) development of best practice principles; and (iv) consensus testing of identified principles using a modified Delphi methodology.

Setting and participants

Twelve systematic reviews and 88 grey literature publications were reviewed leading to the unique identification of 13 principles later assessed by 18 PPI experts.

Results

Essential consensus (>75% agreement) was obtained for nine principles reviewed. Working in equal partnership and sharing information achieved the highest consensus rates: 16/17 essential 94.1%; 1/17 desirable 5.8%. The four remaining principles that failed to reach essential consensus were categorized as desirable by expert respondents. No principles were considered irrelevant. No alternatives were suggested.

Discussion

Expert respondents suggest essential principles must be achieved to optimize PPI best practice. To advance PPI practice, desirable principles should also be aspired to wherever possible.

Conclusions

This study's innovative approach advances existing knowledge by providing previously unavailable consensus about PPI best practice. Research findings hold important theoretical and practical implications for educators, regulators, researchers and practitioners looking to effectively work together.
Pediatric vasculitis: a single center experience
Authors: Alexopoulos Alexios , Dakoutrou Maria , Stefanaki Kalliopi , Chrousos George , Kakourou Talia
Published: September 2017

Background

Existing studies of children with vasculitis are limited. The aim of this study was to assess the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, laboratory findings, course, and outcome of Greek children presenting with vasculitic rash.

Methods

The relevant data included in the study were collected retrospectively using a standardized form from children who were admitted into our department between 2003 and 2013, with the provisional diagnosis of vasculitis of the skin.

Results

The study sample consisted of 95 children (58 boys, 37 girls) with a mean age of 5.9 years. In total, 76 out of 95 (80%) of the children were diagnosed with Henoch‐Schönlein purpura, 10/95 (10.5%) with hypersensitivity vasculitis, 6/95 (6.3%) with urticarial vasculitis, and 3/95 (3.1%) with acute hemorrhagic edema of infancy. The mean age of the children was 5.7 years for Henoch‐Schönlein purpura, 9 years for hypersensitivity vasculitis, 5.1 years for urticarial vasculitis, and 0.5 years for acute hemorrhagic edema of infancy.

Conclusions

(i) The most common vasculitis presenting with skin rash in children is Henoch‐Schönlein purpura; (ii) hypersensitivity vasculitis occurs in older children more often when compared to other types of vasculitis; (iii) urticarial vasculitis lesions may be a sign of severe underlying disease; therefore a thorough examination of these patients is warranted; (iv) Despite relapses, the overall prognosis of patients with pediatric skin vasculitides is good, with the exception of those with the urticarial vasculitis type.
Three novel mutations in CYBA among 22 Iranians with Chronic granulomatous disease
Authors: Badalzadeh M. , Tajik S. , Fazlollahi M. R. , Houshmand M. , Fattahi F. , Alizadeh Z. , Movahedi M. , Adab Z. , Khotaei G. T. , Hamidieh A. A. , Heidarnazhad H. , Pourpak Z.
Published: September 2017

Chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) is a rare primary immunodeficiency caused by defect in one of the components of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH)‐oxidase enzyme. The enzyme is at least composed of membrane‐bound subunits gp91‐phox and p22‐phox (also named cytochrome b558), and cytosolic ones p40‐phox, p47‐phox and p67‐phox. A defect in the enzyme activity leads to impaired intracellular killing of phagocytic cells. The CYBA gene encoding p22‐phox is located on chromosome 16q24. In this study, new genetic changes of CYBA gene in 22 Iranian patients with autosomal recessive‐CGD (AR‐CGD) were identified. Twenty‐two patients with CGD were referred to Immunology, Asthma and Allergy Research Institute (IAARI) and enrolled in this study based on defect in NADPH oxidase activity, demographic data and clinical histories. All patients had p22‐phox deficiency based on Western blotting. Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), and PCR followed by direct sequencing was performed to find p22‐phox mutations. Mutation analysis of CYBA revealed 12 different mutations, including three novel mutations: one was deletion of exon 1, and two were point mutations in exon 3 (c.136G>A (p.Gly46Ser)), and exon 6 (c.388C>T (p.Gln130X)). Three new mutations of CYBA gene in four of 22 Iranian patients with AR‐CGD were found. These three novel mutations can partly complete the database of Human Gene Mutation Database (HGMD) and other related ones. It can also be helpful for further prenatal diagnosis in the affected families. Given that currently bone marrow transplantation is considered to be the curative treatment for patients with CGD, finding mutations will also be useful for timely decision‐making in bone marrow transplantation.
Association of human platelet antigens polymorphisms with susceptibility to hepatitis C virus infection in Chinese population
Authors: Zhou S.‐h. , Liang X.‐h. , Shao L.‐n. , Yu W.‐j. , Zhao C. , Liu M.
Published: September 2017

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major cause of chronic hepatitis. Previous studies have identified a number of single nucleotide polymorphisms that are associated with HCV infection. Human platelet antigens (HPAs) polymorphisms play an important role in several diseases. Here, we demonstrated the association of the HPA‐2, HPA‐3, HPA‐5 and HPA‐15 polymorphisms with susceptibility to HCV infection in Chinese population. Overall, 118 patients with HCV and 167 controls were genotyped for HPAs. There were no significant differences in the allele and genotype frequency distribution for the HPA‐3, HPA‐5 and HPA‐15 systems between the patients with chronic HCV infection and the healthy controls (p > .05). However, the genotype frequency of HPA‐2aa was significantly lower, while HPA‐2ab/bb was significantly higher in patients than that in the controls (p = .006). The allele frequency of HPA‐2a in patients was significantly lower than that in the control group (p = .005). In contrast, HPA‐2b in patients was significantly higher than that in the control group (p = .005). We conclude that HPA‐2 polymorphism is associated with susceptibility to HCV infection, and individuals carrying the HPA‐2b allele may have a higher risk of HCV infection compared with individuals carrying HPA‐2a.
Impact of selective media for detecting fluoroquinolone‐insusceptible/extended‐spectrum beta‐lactamase‐producing Escherichia coli before transrectal prostate biopsy
Authors: Sadahira Takuya , Wada Koichiro , Araki Motoo , Ishii Ayano , Watanabe Toyohiko , Nasu Yoshitsugu , Tsugawa Masaya , Takenaka Tadasu , Nasu Yasutomo , Kumon Hiromi
Published: September 2017

Objectives

To investigate the prevalence of fluoroquinolone‐insusceptible and/or extended‐spectrum beta‐lactamase‐producing Escherichia coli colonizing in the male rectum before transrectal prostate biopsy.

Methods

We carried out a prospective cohort study of men undergoing transrectal prostate biopsy. CHROMagar Orientation originally supplemented with levofloxacin and CHROMagar Orientation/extended‐spectrum beta‐lactamase were used for detecting fluoroquinolone‐insusceptible and extended‐spectrum beta‐lactamase‐producing Escherichia coli. Rectal specimens were collected before prostate biopsy, and the results of cultures in the selective medium were compared with drug susceptibility measured by standard methods. Targeted prophylactic antimicrobials were administered to patients with drug‐resistant Escherichia coli and the incidence of postoperative prostatitis was investigated. In the case of prostatitis, pathogens preoperatively isolated from the rectum and those from urine were compared using pulsed‐field gel electrophoresis.

Results

Rectal colonization of fluoroquinolone‐insusceptible or extended‐spectrum beta‐lactamase‐producing Escherichia coli was detected in 217 of 694 (31.3%) and 85 of 640 (13.3%) participants, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity of fluoroquinolone‐insusceptible selective media were 96.8% and 88.2%, respectively. A total of 618 participants underwent transrectal prostate biopsy, and postoperative acute prostatitis was observed in four of 618 (0.6%) participants. Escherichia coli strains isolated preoperatively from the rectum and postoperatively from urine were found to be identical.

Conclusions

The present findings showed accuracy and performance of the selective media. Screening cultures before transrectal prostate biopsy using selective media seems to be helpful for guiding antibiotic prophylaxis and thus decreasing the rate of post‐biopsy acute prostatitis.
Does the suburethral sling change its location?
Authors: Majkusiak Wojciech , Pomian Andrzej , Tomasik Paweł , Horosz Edyta , Zwierzchowska Aneta , Kociszewski Jacek , Barcz Ewa
Published: September 2017

Objectives

To ascertain whether a phenomenon of sling migration exists after suburethral sling placement, whether this might be responsible for suboptimal sling location and persistent incontinence, and whether a link exists between sling dislocation or migration and risk factors, such as obesity or age.

Methods

The present prospective cohort study was carried out in a group of 244 patients who underwent retropubic sling implantation. Sling location was determined by means of pelvic floor ultrasound, and calculated relative to the individual patient's urethral length measured before the procedure. The sling location was visualized on 1 day, and 1 and 6 months post‐surgery. Overweight/obese and elderly patients were analyzed separately to assess the possible influence of those factors on sling location.

Results

The mean urethral length in the studied cohort was 28.76 ± 3.67 mm. The mean tape position 1 day post‐surgery was 66.18 ± 8.43% of the urethral length, and it did not change 1 and 6 months post‐surgery in the whole group. Similar results were obtained in elderly and overweight/obese patients.

Conclusions

Suboptimal sling location appears to result from incorrect surgical technique, and should be diagnosed and treated early after the primary surgery. Sling location does not change after mid‐term follow up.
Addressing the support needs of families during the acute hospitalization of a parent with mental illness: A narrative literature review
Authors: Foster Karen P. , Hills Danny , Foster Kim N.
Published: September 2017

Hospitalisation of a parent with acute mental health problems impacts the consumer, their extended family/carers and children. Mental health nurses are at the forefront of promoting recovery for consumers in an acute inpatient setting. Recovery‐oriented care can include provision of family‐focused care which supports recovery of the parent‐consumer and their family members and contributes to prevention of intergenerational mental illness. The aim of this narrative literature review was to explore existing knowledge regarding the experiences, care and support needs of parent‐consumers, their family members/carers and children during the parent's acute mental health hospitalisation. It also aims to explore existing knowledge about the practices of mental health nurses providing care to this consumer group, to inform future healthcare practice and strengthen parent, child and family outcomes. Nineteen published studies addressed the review questions. In the context of hospitalisation, the majority of research regarding parenting with a mental illness is focused on mothers. Parents reported experiencing stigma during their hospitalisation. Separation from children was a concern for parents and their extended family, but admission provided an opportunity for the parent to receive treatment and for the family to receive support. Mental health nurses did not always identify parental status on admission. When parental status was identified, nurses reported issues regarding logistics and practicalities of using family rooms, children visiting the unit, and their own professional knowledge and organisational support regarding familyfocused care. Implications for practice are identified, highlighting how mental health nurses can develop their practice to support the recovery of parent‐consumers.
Flame‐assisted flash sintering: A noncontact method to flash sinter coatings on conductive substrates
Authors: Johnson Stephen L. , Venugopal Ganesh , Hunt Andrew T.
Published: September 2017

We present a novel and effective method for sintering ceramic coatings onto metallic substrates. This new technique, called Flame‐assisted flash sintering (FAFS), utilizes a flame as both a heating source and a conformal, current‐carrying top electrode to facilitate flash sintering. Using this method, Yttria‐stabilized Zirconia (8 mol% Y, 8YSZ) coatings are sintered onto stainless steel substrates to controlled degrees of porosity in rapid fashion. Flame‐assisted flash sintering utilizes a dynamic soft electrode for flash sintering and has commercial potential to sinter ceramic coatings on complex‐shaped substrates for a variety of applications including tribological or thermal protection coatings.
Synthesis of hexagonal phases of WN and W2.25N3 by high‐pressure metathesis reaction
Authors: Kawamura Fumio , Yusa Hitoshi , Taniguchi Takashi
Published: September 2017

Hexagonal tungsten nitrides were synthesized by the metathesis reaction between WCl6 and NaN3 under high pressure and temperature. As well as tungsten mononitride (WN), which is isostructural with hexagonal tungsten carbide (WC), a nitrogen‐rich hexagonal compound was also confirmed in the product. The ratio of nitrogen to tungsten was determined to be 1.34 by the quantitative combustion method. The composition was estimated to be W2.25N3 by considering the crystal structure that is best explained by the X‐ray diffraction profile. Volume compression measurements under hydrostatic pressure revealed that the WC‐type WN has a higher bulk modulus (K0 = 342 ± 1 GPa) than that of hexagonal W2.25N3 (K0 = 291 ± 2 GPa).
Stress distribution around Fe5Si3 and its effect on interface status and mechanical properties of Si3N4 ceramics
Authors: Wang Lujie , Qi Qian , Wu Haibo , Zhang Hui , Yin Jie , Yang Yong , Huang Jian , Yang Xiao , Liu Xuejian , Huang Zhengren
Published: September 2017

Si3N4 ceramics with different amount of Fe5Si3 were prepared by adding FeSi2. Residual thermal stress distribution and elastic energy around Fe5Si3 particles in various depths were calculated. The interface status between second phase particles and matrix was analyzed in terms of stress and energy. High tangential compressive stresses and low radial tensile stresses were generated along the surface of the ceramics. Elastic strain energy caused by unit interface was high around big particles in deep area of the ceramics. Microcracks are observed around the big Fe5Si3 particles. Furthermore, accord to our calculation, microcracks are easily generated around particles in superficial layer of matrix when second phase particles have lower thermal expansion coefficient than the matrix, while microcracks tend to be generated in deep layer of matrix preferentially when the thermal expansion coefficient of second phase particles is higher than matrix. Residual stresses and microcracks around Fe5Si3 particles greatly influenced mechanical properties. Fracture toughness of Si3N4 ceramics with similar Si3N4 particle size distribution increased with the amount of Fe5Si3, and fine Fe5Si3 particles could enhance the strength of Si3N4 ceramics. Si3N4 ceramics exceeding 1.2 GPa strength were prepared.
Domain engineering enhanced microwave tunability in nonstoichiometric Ba0.8Sr0.2TiO3
Authors: Teranishi Takashi , Osaki Koji , Hayashi Hidetaka , Kishimoto Akira
Published: September 2017

Domain engineering via oxygen vacancy, , loading achieved by A/B modification as well as quenching treatment, was utilized for Ba0.8Sr0.2TiO3 (0.8 BSTs) in an attempt to enhance the microwave tunable characteristics. For similar grain sizes, the domain sizes were notably reduced for all nonstoichiometric BSTs, indicating that the loaded (as a consequence of Ti defects, ) played a role in the nuclei for new domain walls. The tunability T at 100 MHz under a direct current field of 30 V/20 μm increased steadily as the domain size (d.s.) declined for all BSTs, regardless of the A/B ratio, due to the d.s. effect. The tunable characteristics in nonstoichiometric BSTs having a similar d.s. of ˜190 nm were then compared. The tunability and tan δ decreased for A/B = 1.002 (0.2 mol% Ti defects). The introduced formed pinning centers that restricted domain wall motion, leading directly to lower tunability and smaller dielectric loss. However, ‐overloaded samples (i.e., A/B ≥ 1.005) exhibited increased values for tan δ due to conduction in the domains. The quench treatment of 0.8 BST (with A/B = 1.002) samples resulted in a d.s. reduction from 191 to 170 nm. These quenched specimens showed greater tunability, Ttotal, originating from the strengthened dipole contribution, Tdipole, as a consequence of the d.s. effect. The tan δ of the quenched specimens was essentially unchanged, indicating a homogenous distribution via the quench, effectively reducing the mobile (which contributes to electrical conduction) in the domains. Consequently, the achieved figure of merit via domain engineering was 2.25 at 100 MHz for the quenched BST with A/B = 1.002, which was 1.54 times larger than that of unmodified BST.
Systematic review: Effective home support in dementia care, components and impacts – Stage 2, effectiveness of home support interventions
Authors: Clarkson Paul , Hughes Jane , Roe Brenda , Giebel Clarissa M. , Jolley David , Poland Fiona , Abendstern Michele , Chester Helen , Challis David ,   Members of the HoSt‐D (Home Support in Dementia) Programme Management Group
Published: September 2017

Aim

The aim of this study was to explicate the outcomes of home support interventions for older people with dementia and/or their carers to inform clinical practice, policy and research.

Background

Most people with dementia receive support at home. However, components and effectiveness of home support interventions have been little explored.

Design

Systematic review with narrative summary.

Data sources

Electronic searches of published studies in English using PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PsychINFO, CINAHL, Applied Social Science Index and CSA Social Services Abstracts. Databases and sources were searched from inception to April 2014 with no date restrictions to locate studies.

Review methods

The PRISMA statement was followed and established systematic review methods used. Using 14 components of care for people with dementia and their carers, identified previously, data across studies were synthesized. Interventions were grouped and described and effectiveness ratings applied. Qualitative studies were synthesized using key themes.

Results

Seventy studies (four qualitative) were included. Most were directed to carers and of high quality. Seven interventions for carers and two for people with dementia were identified, covering 81% of studies. Those relating to daily living, cognitive training and physical activity for people with dementia were absent. Measures of effectiveness were influenced mainly by the intensity (duration and frequency) of interventions. Those containing education, social support and behaviour management appeared most effective.

Conclusion

These interventions reflect emergent patterns of home support. Research is required to identify effective interventions linked to the stage of dementia, which can be applied as part of routine clinical care.
Developing a positive patient experience with nurses in general practice: An integrated model of patient satisfaction and enablement
Authors: Desborough Jane , Phillips Christine , Mills Jane , Korda Rosemary , Bagheri Nasser , Banfield Michelle
Published: September 2017

Aim

To develop a conceptual model that provides a comprehensive understanding of the structures and processes underpinning patient enablement and satisfaction in general practice nurse consultations.

Background

Current evidence regarding patient satisfaction and enablement arising from general practice nursing care is either quantitative or qualitative. To date, no studies have integrated the results of mixed methods research to provide a deeper understanding of processes that facilitate their achievement.

Design

A concurrent mixed methods study.

Methods

Our 2013–2014 concurrent mixed methods study comprised a quantitative study that analysed variables identified in interviews with general practice nurses, patients and practice managers with data from a cross‐sectional survey of 678 patients receiving nursing care in 21 general practices; and a qualitative study that used a grounded theory approach to in‐depth interviews with nurses and patients from these same practices. Using joint displays, we compared and integrated the results of the multilevel analyses and the grounded theory model derived from these studies.

Findings

We conceptualized a model—‘developing a positive patient experience with nurses in general practice’—in which time, continuity of care, nursing scope of practice and autonomy, and patients’ health conditions provide platforms for the processes of triggering healthcare partnerships and tailoring care in nurse consultations.

Conclusion

This model builds on previous evidence describing processes and characteristics that optimize the quality of care in general practice nurse consultations. It provides a practical tool to inform education and training for general practice nurses and other clinicians.
Ecological legacies of anthropogenic burning in a British Columbia coastal temperate rain forest
Authors: Hoffman Kira M. , Lertzman Ken P. , Starzomski Brian M.
Published: September 2017

Aim

Few long‐term fire histories have been reconstructed in coastal temperate rain forests, and little is known regarding the spatial and temporal characteristics of lightning and human ignitions. We use a multidisciplinary approach to assess the impact, scale and ecological legacies of historic fires.

Location

We focus on perhumid temperate rain forests located on the central coast of British Columbia, Canada.

Methods

We reconstructed 700 years of temporal and spatial aspects of fire activity with 30 plots on Hecate Island using fire scars and forest‐stand establishment. We then conducted a paired study of 20 former indigenous habitation and control sites on 15 islands to relate fire activity to patterns of human settlement. We mapped 15 years of lightning strike densities and use mixed‐effects modelling to assess whether fire activity predicted the distribution and abundance of traditional plants.

Results

Sixteen low‐ and mixed‐severity fires were recorded from 1376 to 1893. The abundance of traditional plants and the density of western redcedar trees were best predicted by the location of former habitation sites and shorter mean fire intervals. Lightning is too rare to explain the pattern of fire activity in the study area. No fire activity was detected after 1893, coinciding with the relocation of indigenous groups from the study area.

Main conclusions

Fire was strongly associated with former indigenous habitation sites during the periods of occupation. People likely utilized fire as a tool for resource management to influence the densities of specific plants by creating mosaics of vegetation in different stages of succession. By assessing the ecological impacts of historic fire events, we gain a better understanding of the abrupt changes that occurred in the 20th century. Our ability to understand present‐day temperate rain forest ecosystems may be compromised if we underestimate the role of humans in driving historic fire activity.
Evaluation of a parent‐delivered early language enrichment programme: evidence from a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Burgoyne Kelly , Gardner Rachel , Whiteley Helen , Snowling Margaret J. , Hulme Charles
Published: September 2017

Background

It is widely believed that increasing parental involvement can improve children's educational outcomes although we lack good evidence for such claims. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a parent‐delivered early language enrichment programme.

Methods

We conducted a randomised controlled trial (RCT) with 208 preschool children and their parents living in socially diverse areas in the United Kingdom. Families were allocated to an oral language programme (N = 103) or an active control programme targeting motor skills (N = 105). Parents delivered the programmes to their child at home in daily 20‐min sessions over 30 weeks of teaching.

Results

Children receiving the language programme made significantly larger gains in language (d = .21) and narrative skills (d = .36) than children receiving the motor skills programme at immediate posttest. Effects on language were maintained 6 months later (d = .34), and at this point, the language group also scored higher on tests of early literacy (d values=.35 and .42). There was no evidence that the movement programme improved motor skills.

Conclusions

This study provides evidence for the effectiveness of a parent‐delivered language enrichment programme. Further large‐scale evaluations of the programme are needed to confirm and extend these findings.
Levels of serum‐circulating angiogenic factors within 1 week prior to delivery are closely related to conditions of pregnant women with pre‐eclampsia, gestational hypertension, and/or fetal growth restriction
Authors: Nanjo Sakiko , Minami Sawako , Mizoguchi Mika , Yamamoto Madoka , Yahata Tamaki , Toujima Saori , Shiro Michihisa , Kobayashi Aya , Muragaki Yasuteru , Ino Kazuhiko
Published: September 2017

Aim

We aimed to investigate maternal serum angiogenic marker profiles within 1 week prior to delivery in cases of gestational hypertension (GH), pre‐eclampsia (PE), and/or fetal growth restriction (FGR) with different clinical conditions.

Methods

We enrolled 165 women with singleton pregnancy. The participants were classified based on three characteristics: (i) proteinuria (GH and PE); (ii) FGR (PE with FGR [PE + FGR], PE alone, and FGR alone); and (iii) onset (early onset PE [EO PE] and late‐onset PE [LO PE]). All sera were obtained within 1 week prior to delivery, and soluble fms‐like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFlt‐1), soluble endoglin (sEng), and placental growth factor (PlGF) were measured with enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

(i) In PE, a significantly increased sFlt‐1, sEng, and sFlt‐1 to PlGF ratio (sFlt‐1/PlGF) and significantly decreased PlGF were observed compared with GH and Term control, whereas in GH, only sFlt‐1/PlGF was significantly higher than Term control. (ii) In PE + FGR, similar changes were more markedly shown compared with PE alone. The FGR alone group exhibited similar tendencies as PE, although significant differences were found in PlGF and sEng levels. (iii) In EO PE, significant changes were observed in all factors compared with LO PE or Term control, while no significant change in PlGF levels was observed between LO PE and Term control.

Conclusion

We demonstrated that the levels of circulating angiogenic factors just before delivery are correlated with the severity of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and FGR. Profiling these specific markers may contribute to better understanding of the clinical conditions in individual patients and their pathogenesis.
Chromium supplementation in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Tang Xiao‐Lei , Sun Zheng , Gong Lei
Published: September 2017

Aim

Increasing evidence has suggested that chromium supplementation may improve the clinical symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), yet the results have been inconsistent. To derive a more precise estimation of the efficacy of chromium, a meta‐analysis was performed.

Methods

Studies published in PubMed, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library up to April 2017 were retrieved. Standardized mean differences (SMD) with 95%CI were calculated for net changes using random‐effects or fixed‐effects models.

Results

A total of six randomized clinical trials (RCT) with 351 PCOS women were ultimately collected in this meta‐analysis. All included RCT were of moderate–high quality. On pooled analysis, insulin resistance was significantly decreased (SMD, −0.84; 95%CI: −1.30 to −0.38; P = 0.0004), while the total testosterone (SMD, 0.36; 95%CI: 0.07–0.65; P = 0.02) and free testosterone (SMD, 0.80; 95%CI: 0.48–1.12; P < 0.00001) were markedly increased in chromium‐treated PCOS patients compared with control groups. No significant difference was found in other indexes of insulin metabolism (body mass index, fasting insulin, fasting blood sugar and quantitative insulin sensitivity check index), hormone status (luteinizing hormone, follicle‐stimulating hormone and prolactin) and lipid profiles (cholesterol and triglycerides) between the two groups.

Conclusion

Supplementation with chromium may not have significant benefits for women with PCOS. More RCT with low heterogeneity, however, are required to corroborate the present findings.
Scaling α‐ and β‐diversity: bryophytes along an elevational gradient on a subtropical oceanic Island (La Palma, Canary Islands)
Authors: Hernández‐Hernández Raquel , Borges Paulo A. V. , Gabriel Rosalina , Rigal François , Ah‐Peng Claudine , González‐Mancebo Juana María
Published: September 2017

Questions

We addressed three questions: (1) what is the variation of α‐ and β‐diversity of bryophyte communities across spatial scales in an elevational gradient; (2) is spatial variation characteristic of different phylogenetic (mosses/liverworts) and/or ecological groups (terrestrials/epiphytes); and (3) what is the contribution of species richness and species replacement (true turnover) to β‐diversity along the elevational gradient?

Location

La Palma, Canary Islands, Spain.

Methods

An elevational transect spanning 0–2200 m a.s.l was sampled at altitudinal intervals of ca. 200 m, two 10 m × 10 m plots were established at each elevation and inside each plot three 2 m × 2 m quadrats were randomly selected. Within each quadrat, bryophytes were sampled in three replicate microplots of 10 cm × 5 cm, for each substrate: soil, rocks, leaves, humus, decaying wood and tree trunks at three heights. We evaluated α‐ and β‐diversity at plot and elevational level for all bryophytes and for phylogenetic and ecological groups. Values of β‐diversity were further decomposed into replacement and richness differences. We tested the relationship between α‐ and β‐diversity and elevation using linear models with and without a quadratic term (elevation2) in an AICc‐based framework.

Results

A total of 121 species were recorded along the transect. Alpha‐diversity showed a hump‐shaped pattern with elevation for all bryophytes, liverworts and epiphytic species, however, terrestrial species and mosses displayed no clear pattern. Species replacement was the main driver of β‐diversity for all bryophytes and also for mosses and terrestrial species, and at different scales (elevational belt and quadrat). The contribution of species replacement increased with elevation, except for epiphytes and terrestrials.

Conclusions

Our study contributes towards an understanding of the spatial organization of bryophyte diversity at different scales along an insular elevational gradient. We showed that bryophyte diversity was mostly influenced by species replacement at the largest scale. The observed differences in β‐diversity decomposition between bryophyte phylogenetic and ecological groups could be dependent on climatic conditions and substrate availability. The strong differences observed along the elevational gradient related to true turnover are especially important in the current global change scenario.
Circadian genes polymorphism and breeding phenology in a resident bird, the yellow‐legged gull
Authors: Romano A. , Possenti C. D. , Caprioli M. , Gatti E. , Gianfranceschi L. , Rubolini D. , Saino N. , Parolini M.
Published: September 2017

In species living in seasonally variable environments, the ability to synchronize the timing of breeding with the peak of critical resources is under positive selection within populations. The temporal scheduling of animal annual cycle is controlled by endogenous rhythms, which are set by ‘circadian clock’ genes. Many studies have supported the hypothesis that length polymorphism in some ‘phenological genes’ is associated with differences in the photoperiodic responses among individuals and populations. However, evidence is inconsistent across species, genes and phenological traits. Among birds, there is a dearth of knowledge concerning the gene‐phenotype association in non‐migratory species. To contribute filling this gap, here we analyzed clutch initiation date of females of a species resident at temperate latitudes, the yellow‐legged gull (Larus michahellis), in relation to the length polymorphism at four loci previously associated with breeding and migration phenology in other species: Adcyap1 and Npas2 genes, as well as two regions of the Clock gene. Although polymorphism was observed at three loci, allele size of the candidate genes seems not to predict the timing of breeding in females. In addition, similar genotype frequencies of all the analyzed genes were observed in early compared to late breeding females. Our results therefore suggest that the associations between photoperiodic candidate genes and breeding phenotype are not general across species and might represent adaptations of individual populations to the local environment.
Actin–membrane interactions mediated by NETWORKED2 in Arabidopsis pollen tubes through associations with Pollen Receptor‐Like Kinase 4 and 5
Authors: Duckney Patrick , Deeks Michael J. , Dixon Martin R. , Kroon Johan , Hawkins Timothy J. , Hussey Patrick J.
Published: September 2017

During fertilization, Pollen Receptor‐Like Kinases (PRKs) control pollen tube growth through the pistil in response to extracellular signals, and regulate the actin cytoskeleton at the tube apex to drive tip growth.

We investigated a novel link between membrane‐integral PRKs and the actin cytoskeleton, mediated through interactions between PRKs and NET2A; a pollen‐specific member of the NETWORKED superfamily of actin‐binding proteins.

We characterize NET2A as a novel actin‐associated protein that localizes to punctae at the plasma membrane of the pollen tube shank, which are stably associated with cortical longitudinal actin cables. NET2A was demonstrated to interact specifically with PRK4 and PRK5 in Nicotiana benthamiana transient expression assays, and associated at discreet foci at the shank membrane of Arabidopsis pollen tubes. Our data indicate that NET2A is recruited to the plasma membrane by PRK4 and PRK5, and that PRK kinase activity is important in facilitating its interaction with NET2A.

We conclude that NET2A–PRK interactions mediate discreet sites of stable interactions between the cortical longitudinal actin cables and plasma membrane in the shank region of growing pollen tubes, which we have termed Actin‐Membrane Contact Sites (AMCSs). Interactions between PRKs and NET2A implicate a role for NET2A in signal transduction to the actin cytoskeleton during fertilization.