bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrating transition theory and bioecological theory: a theoretical perspective for nurses supporting the transition to adulthood for young people with medical complexity
Authors: Joly Elizabeth
Published: February 2016

Aims

To present a discussion of a theoretical perspective developed through integrating Meleis' Transition Theory and Bronfenbrenner's Bioecological Theory of Human Development to inform nursing and advanced nursing practice supporting the transition to adulthood for young people with medical complexity.

Background

Theoretical perspectives to inform nursing practice in supporting successful transition are limited, yet nurses frequently encounter young people with medical complexity during the transition to adulthood.

Design

Discussion paper.

Data

A literature search of CINAHL and Medline was conducted in 2014 and included articles from 2003–2014; informal discussions with families; the author's experiences in a transition program.

Implications for Nursing

The integrated theoretical perspective described in this paper can inform nurses and advanced practice nurses on contextual influences, program and intervention development across spheres of influence and outcomes for the transition to adulthood for young people with medical complexity. Young people and their families require effective reciprocal interactions with individuals and services across sectors to successfully transition to adulthood and become situated in the adult world. Intervention must also extend beyond the young person to include providers, services and health and social policy.

Conclusion

Nurses can take a leadership role in supporting the transition to adulthood for young people with medical complexity through direct care, case management, education and research. It is integral that nurses holistically consider developmental processes, complexity and contextual conditions that promote positive outcomes during and beyond the transition to adulthood.
Selecting Against Disability: The Liberal Eugenic Challenge and the Argument from Cognitive Diversity
Authors: Gyngell Christopher , Douglas Thomas
Published: February 2016

Selection against embryos that are predisposed to develop disabilities is one of the less controversial uses of embryo selection technologies (ESTs). Many bio‐conservatives argue that while the use of ESTs to select for non‐disease‐related traits, such as height and eye‐colour, should be banned, their use to avoid disease and disability should be permitted. Nevertheless, there remains significant opposition, particularly from the disability rights movement, to the use of ESTs to select against disability.

In this article we examine whether and why the state could be justified in restricting the use of ESTs to select against disability. We first outline the challenge posed by proponents of ‘liberal eugenics’. Liberal eugenicists challenge those who defend restrictions on the use of ESTs to show why the use of these technologies would create a harm of the type and magnitude required to justify coercive measures. We argue that this challenge could be met by adverting to the risk of harms to future persons that would result from a loss of certain forms of cognitive diversity. We suggest that this risk establishes a pro tanto case for restricting selection against some disabilities, including dyslexia and Asperger's syndrome.
Mitochondrial rate variation among lineages of passerine birds
Authors: Nguyen Jacqueline M. T. , Ho Simon Y. W.
Published: February 2016

The order Passeriformes comprises the majority of extant avian species. Analyses of molecular data have provided important insights into the evolution of this diverse order. However, molecular estimates of the evolutionary and demographic timescales of passerine species have been hindered by a lack of reliable calibrations. This has led to a reliance on the application of standard substitution rates to mitochondrial DNA data, particularly rates estimated from analyses of the gene encoding cytochrome b (CYTB). To investigate patterns of rate variation across passerine lineages, we used a Bayesian phylogenetic approach to analyse the protein‐coding genes of 183 mitochondrial genomes. We found that the most commonly used mitochondrial marker, CYTB, has low variation in rates across passerine lineages. This lends support to its widespread use as a molecular clock in birds. However, we also found that the patterns of among‐lineage rate variation in CYTB are only weakly related to the evolutionary rate of the mitochondrial genome as a whole. Our analyses confirmed the presence of mutational saturation at third codon positions across the protein‐coding genes of the mitochondrial genome, reinforcing the view that these sites should be excluded in studies of deep passerine relationships. The results of our analyses have provided information that will be useful for molecular‐clock studies of passerine evolution.
A synthesis of species interactions, metacommunities, and the conservation of avian diversity in hemiboreal and boreal forests
Authors: Grinde Alexis R. , Niemi Gerald J.
Published: February 2016

The rate at which climate is changing in northern latitudes presents a significant threat to bird populations that rely on boreal forests. Alterations in the distributions of trees and other plants as a result of warming will alter the habitat suitability of vast regions of boreal and hemiboreal forests. Climate change associated habitat alterations along with range expansions of bird species are likely to have substantial consequences on avian communities and biodiversity. Identifying factors that contribute to species coexistence and community assembly processes at local and regional scales will facilitate predictions about the impact of climate change on avian communities in these forest ecosystems. This paper provides a comprehensive review of historic and current theories of community ecology dynamics providing a theoretical synthesis that links the evolution of species traits at the individual level, the dynamics of species interactions, and the overall maintenance of biodiversity. Integration of these perspectives is necessary to provide the scientific means to face growing environmental challenges in boreal ecosystems.
The Occurrence of Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator Therapies After Generator Replacement in Patients Who No Longer Meet Primary Prevention Indications
Authors: KAWATA HIRO , HIRAI TAISHI , DOUKAS DEMETRIOS , HIRAI RIE , STEINBRUNNER JENNI , WILSON JOHN , NODA TAKASHI , HSU JONATHAN , KRUMMEN DAVID , FELD GREGORY , WILBER DAVID , SANTUCCI PETER , BIRGERSDOTTER‐GREEN ULRIKA
Published: February 2016

The Occurrence of ICD Therapies After Generator Replacement

Introduction

At the time of generator replacement, after ICD implantation for primary prevention, many patients may no longer meet implantation criteria. We investigated the occurrence of ICD therapy after generator replacement in patients initially implanted ICD for primary prevention.

Methods

Patients from 3 hospitals undergoing ICD generator replacement, who were initially implanted for primary prevention, were retrospectively evaluated for occurrence of appropriate ICD therapy after generator replacement. Patients were categorized as to whether or not they had appropriate ICD therapy during their first battery life, and by their left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) before generator replacement.

Results

Data from 168 patients were analyzed, with average follow‐up after generator replacement of 41.2 ± 26.5 months. Seventy‐six (45.2%) patients had ventricular arrhythmia episodes (>180 beats per minutes) and 63 (37.5%) received appropriate ICD therapy during the first battery life. Among 105 patients without ICD therapy before generator replacement, those with an LVEF ≤35% before ICD replacement had higher occurrence of ICD therapy after generator replacement than patients with an LVEF ≥36%. Patients who no longer met primary prevention ICD indications (no ICD therapy and LVEF ≥36% before generator replacement) showed a lower risk for ICD therapy after generator replacement (11.6% over 5‐year follow‐up).

Conclusions

In patients without ICD therapy before generator replacement, low LVEF (≤35%) contributed to future ICD therapy. In patients initially undergoing ICD implantation for primary prevention, history of ICD therapy during the first battery life and LVEF should be utilized for risk stratification at the time of generator replacement.
Organized Sources Are Spatially Conserved in Recurrent Compared to Pre‐Ablation Atrial Fibrillation: Further Evidence for Non‐Random Electrical Substrates
Authors: LALANI GAUTAM G. , COYSH THOMAS , BAYKANER TINA , ZAMAN JUNAID , HOPPER KENNETH , SCHRICKER AMIR A. , TRIKHA RISHI , CLOPTON PAUL , KRUMMEN DAVID E. , NARAYAN SANJIV M.
Published: February 2016

Conserved Rotors in Recurrent AF

Introduction

Recurrent atrial fibrillation (AF) after ablation is associated with reconnection of initially isolated pulmonary vein (PV) trigger sites. Substrates are often targeted in addition to PVI, but it is unclear how substrates progress over time. We studied if substrates in recurrent AF are conserved or have developed de novo from pre‐ablation AF.

Methods and Results

Of 137 patients undergoing Focal Impulse and Rotor Mapping (FIRM) at their index procedure for AF, 29 consecutive patients (60 ± 8 years, 79% persistent) recurred and were also mapped at repeat procedure (21 ± 20 months later) using carefully placed 64‐pole baskets and RhythmViewTM (Topera, Menlo Park, CA, USA) to identify AF sources and disorganized zones. Compared to index AF, recurrent AF had a longer cycle length (177 ± 21 vs. 167 ± 19 milliseconds, P = 0.01). All patients (100%) had 1 or more conserved AF rotors between procedures with surrounding disorganization. The number of sources was similar for recurrent AF post‐PVI versus index AF (3.2 ± 1.4 vs. 3.1 ± 1.0, P = 0.79), but was lower for recurrent AF after FIRM+PVI versus index AF (4.4 ± 1.4 vs. 2.9 ± 1.7, P = 0.03). Overall, 81% (61/75) of AF sources lay in conserved regions, while 19% (14/75) were detected de novo.

Conclusion

Electrical propagation patterns for recurrent AF after unsuccessful ablation are similar in individual patients to their index AF. These data support temporospatial stability of AF substrates over 1–2 years. Trials should determine the relative benefit of adding substrate mapping and ablation to PVI for recurrent AF.
Is the European Commission Really in Decline?
Authors: Nugent Neill , Rhinard Mark
Published: February 2016

In the academic debate on the relative powers and influence of the EU institutions, it has become common to suggest – especially in the case of advocates of the ‘new intergovernmentalism’ – that the European Commission is in decline. In this article we show that while in some limited respects this is indeed the case, the Commission's overall position in the EU system is not one of having become a weaker institutional actor. The extent of the losses of its powers and influence tends to be exaggerated, while in some aspects its powers and influence have actually been strengthened. We show this by focusing on three of the Commission's core functions – agenda‐setter, legislative actor and executive – all of which are widely portrayed as being in decline. We incorporate into our analysis both the formal and informal resources available to the Commission in exercising the functions.
A multicentre, randomized, single‐blind, parallel‐group study comparing the efficacy and tolerability of benzoyl peroxide 3%/clindamycin 1% with azelaic acid 20% in the topical treatment of mild‐to‐moderate acne vulgaris
Authors: Schaller M. , Sebastian M. , Ress C. , Seidel D. , Hennig M.
Published: February 2016

Background

Mild‐to‐moderate acne vulgaris is treated with a range of mono‐ and combination therapies; however, clinical evidence is still required to optimize treatment recommendations.

Objective

To compare the efficacy, tolerability and safety of a combination of benzoyl peroxide 3% and clindamycin 1% (BPO + CLN) with azelaic acid 20% (AzA) for the topical treatment of mild‐to‐moderate acne vulgaris.

Method

This was a randomized, assessor‐blinded, parallel‐group, multicentre study conducted in Germany. Patients with a confirmed diagnosis of acne vulgaris, aged 12–45 years, were randomized 1 : 1 to once‐daily BPO + CLN gel or twice‐daily AzA cream for up to 12 weeks. The primary endpoint was the percentage change in inflammatory lesions from baseline at Week 4. Secondary endpoints included total and inflammatory lesion counts and tolerability assessments. For selected secondary endpoints, inductive statistical analysis was performed post hoc. Patient safety was assessed by adverse event (AE) monitoring.

Results

Efficacy was assessed in the modified intent‐to‐treat (mITT) population [patients using ≥1 dose of study medication (ITT), plus baseline and ≥1 post‐baseline lesion count (n = 215)]. There was a statistically significant difference in the primary endpoint, with a median decrease of −52.6% for BPO + CLN (n = 107) vs.−38.8% for AzA (n = 108; P = 0.0004). There was also a greater difference in secondary lesion endpoints at Week 12, with a median decrease in inflammatory lesions of −78.8% and −65.3% and total lesions of −69.0% and −53.9% with BPO + CLN and AzA, respectively (both P < 0.0001). Tolerability was acceptable for both treatments. Overall, 55.6% (BPO + CLN) and 69.7% (AzA) of patients reported treatment‐emergent AEs, and 15.7% and 35.8% of patients experienced application site reactions with BPO + CLN (24 events; 17 patients) and AzA (60 events; 39 patients) treatment, respectively (ITT population).

Conclusion

BPO + CLN demonstrated greater efficacy than AzA in the treatment of mild‐to‐moderate acne vulgaris and has a positive tolerability and safety profile.
The finite body triangulation: algorithms, subgraphs, homogeneity estimation and application
Authors: CARSON CANTWELL G. , LEVINE JONATHAN S.
Published: February 2016

The concept of a finite body Dirichlet tessellation has been extended to that of a finite body Delaunay ‘triangulation’ to provide a more meaningful description of the spatial distribution of nonspherical secondary phase bodies in 2‐ and 3‐dimensional images. A finite body triangulation (FBT) consists of a network of minimum edge‐to‐edge distances between adjacent objects in a microstructure. From this is also obtained the characteristic object chords formed by the intersection of the object boundary with the finite body tessellation. These two sets of distances form the basis of a parsimonious homogeneity estimation. The characteristics of the spatial distribution are then evaluated with respect to the distances between objects and the distances within them. Quantitative analysis shows that more physically representative distributions can be obtained by selecting subgraphs, such as the relative neighbourhood graph and the minimum spanning tree, from the finite body tessellation. To demonstrate their potential, we apply these methods to 3‐dimensional X‐ray computed tomographic images of foamed cement and their 2‐dimensional cross sections. The Python computer code used to estimate the FBT is made available. Other applications for the algorithm – such as porous media transport and crack‐tip propagation – are also discussed.
Awakening: a qualitative study on maintaining weight loss after bariatric surgery
Authors: Liebl Lori , Barnason Susan , Brage Hudson Diane
Published: February 2016

Aims and objectives

To describe the experiences of adults who were successful in maintaining weight loss after bariatric surgery.

Background

The majority of studies examine a homogenous demographic group of postbariatric surgical patients who have gone through initial weight loss, which occurs within the first 12–24 months post surgery. Maintenance of weight loss begins 24 months after bariatric surgery; however, there is a paucity of research examining experiences during this period. The lack of conclusive research related to interactions between intrapersonal, behavioural and environmental influences suggests a need to develop a better understanding of patients' experiences related to weight loss maintenance post bariatric surgery.

Design

Bandura's Social Cognitive Theory provided the framework for the semi‐structured interviews for this qualitative descriptive study.

Methods

In‐person interviews with n = 14 participants who were able to maintain weight loss at least 24 months after a bariatric surgery.

Results

Participants experienced an awakening and gained a new perspective on their life. They identified negative attitudes, influences and behaviours and modified their environment to support their desired healthy behaviour.

Conclusions

To maintain weight loss, an individual must seek out and be surrounded by positive family and peer support influences. Positive support may provide the opportunity for an individual to place personal health needs as a priority.

Relevance to clinical practice

Therapeutic education and counselling for individuals, couples and families should occur during all phases of bariatric surgery. Communication techniques may empower clients to deflect negative comments and influences in a constructive manner. Support groups should accommodate the various phases of bariatric surgery. Clients should be prepared for how to work through emotions associated with weight fluctuations.
INSURANCE BY GOVERNMENT OR AGAINST GOVERNMENT? OVERVIEW OF PUBLIC RISK MANAGEMENT POLICIES
Authors: Libich Jan , Macháček Martin
Published: February 2016

In what contexts is it desirable that the government, rather than the private sector, takes on the role of an insurer and helps people reduce risks? Our discussion implies that while in a number of areas individuals benefit from well‐designed insurance providedbytheir government, ill‐designed public policies (for example existing pay‐as‐you‐go pension systems) force individuals to insureagainsttheir government. It is further discussed how governments could improve their risk managing role in many areas by usingincome contingent loans, provided the country has high‐quality institutions and governance. Such loans to artists, sportspeople, flood victims or collapsing financial institutions would replace the existing nonrepayable transfers, grants, subsidies and bailouts. Using a simple efficiency‐equity‐sustainability framework for comparing income contingent schemes with conventional public and private insurance policies, we document that this would enable governments to extend their insurance assistance to a greater number of people and institutions – in a way that is not only equitable but also efficient and fiscally sustainable.
Impact of Type and Duration of Application of Commercially Available Oral Moisturizers on Their Antifungal Effects
Authors: Murakami Mamoru , Fujishima Kei , Nishi Yasuhiro , Minemoto Yoko , Kanie Takahito , Taguchi Norihiro , Nishimura Masahiro
Published: February 2016

Purpose

To examine the impact of oral moisturizer type and application time on antifungal effects.

Materials and Methods

Seventeen oral moisturizers (7 liquids, 10 gels) and amphotericin B (AMPH‐B) were tested. Antifungal effects were evaluated with newly opened moisturizer samples (0 hour) and with samples incubated for 8 hours to simulate contact during sleep. Candida albicans samples (108 cells/ml) were placed into cylindrical holes in 50% trypticase soy agar plates. Antifungal effects were evaluated based on growth‐inhibitory zones after 24 hours. Equal quantities of moisturizers showing growth‐inhibitory zones were mixed as additional samples. The effects of moisturizer type and application time on growth‐inhibitory zones were evaluated with ANOVA. Growth‐inhibitory zone sizes were compared with multiple comparisons.

Results

Growth‐inhibitory zones were found with two liquids, one gel, moisturizer mixtures, and AMPH‐B. Significant differences in antifungal effects were found among different moisturizer types and between the 0‐ and 8‐hour groups. The growth‐inhibitory zones of the 8‐hour group were significantly smaller than those of the 0‐hour group. In both the 0‐ and 8‐hour groups, the growth‐inhibitory zones of the liquid‐gel mixtures were significantly larger than those of other moisturizer types, and were the same size as those of AMPH‐B at two concentrations (1.25 and 2.5 μg/ml). Growth‐inhibitory zones of individual moisturizers and liquid‐liquid mixtures were the same size as those of lower AMPH‐B concentrations (0.16, 0.31, and 0.63 μg/ml).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that mixing liquid and gel moisturizers improves their antifungal efficiency.
Enhancing Fracture and Wear Resistance of Dentures/Overdentures Utilizing Digital Technology: A Case Series Report
Authors: Afify Ahmed , Haney Stephan
Published: February 2016

Since it was first introduced into the dental world, computer‐aided design/computer‐aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology has improved dramatically in regards to both data acquisition and fabrication abilities. CAD/CAM is capable of providing well‐fitting intra‐ and extraoral prostheses when sound guidelines are followed. As CAD/CAM technology encompasses both surgical and prosthetic dental applications as well as fixed and removable aspects, it could improve the average quality of dental prostheses compared with the results obtained by conventional manufacturing methods. The purpose of this article is to provide an introduction into the methods in which this technology may be used to enhance the wear and fracture resistance of dentures and overdentures. This article will also showcase two clinical reports in which CAD/CAM technology has been implemented.
Personality Strengths as Resilience: A One‐Year Multiwave Study
Authors: Goodman Fallon R. , Disabato David J. , Kashdan Todd B. , Machell Kyla A.
Published: February 2016

We examined how personality strengths prospectively predict reactions to negative life events. Participants were 797 community adults from 42 countries. At five points over the course of 1 year, participants completed a series of questionnaires measuring seven personality strengths (hope, grit, meaning in life, curiosity, gratitude, control beliefs, and use of strengths), subjective well‐being, and frequency and severity of negative life events. Using hierarchical linear modeling with assessment periods nested within participants, results from lagged analyses found that only hope emerged as a resilience factor. To illustrate the importance of using appropriate lagged analyses in resilience research, we ran nonlagged analyses; these results suggest that all seven personality strengths moderated the effect of negative life events on subjective well‐being, with greater strengths associated with healthier outcomes. To provide evidence that personality strengths confer resilience, a prospective examination is needed with the inclusion of events and responses to them. The use of concurrent methodologies and analyses, which is the norm in psychology, often leads to erroneous conclusions. Hope, the ability to generate routes to reach goals and the motivation to use those routes, was shown to be particularly important in promoting resilience.
Low melatonin production by suppression of either serotonin N‐acetyltransferase or N‐acetylserotonin methyltransferase in rice causes seedling growth retardation with yield penalty, abiotic stress susceptibility, and enhanced coleoptile growth under anoxic conditions
Authors: Byeon Yeong , Back Kyoungwhan
Published: February 2016

Serotonin N‐acetyltransferase (SNAT) and N‐acetylserotonin methyltransferase (ASMT) are the last two key enzymes for melatonin biosynthesis in living organisms. In this study, we demonstrated that transgenic rice (Oryza sativa L.) plants, in which expression of either endogenous SNAT or ASMT was suppressed, had reduced melatonin synthesis, confirming that both SNAT and ASMT are functionally involved in melatonin synthesis. The melatonin‐deficient SNAT rice had retarded seedling growth, which was partially restored by exogenous melatonin application, suggesting melatonin's role in seedling growth. In addition, the plants were more sensitive to various abiotic stresses, including salt and cold, compared with the wild type. Melatonin‐deficient SNAT rice had increased coleoptile growth under anoxic conditions, indicating that melatonin also inversely regulates plant growth under anaerobic conditions with the concomitant high expression of alcohol dehydrogenase genes. Similarly, the melatonin‐deficient ASMT rice exhibited accelerated senescence in detached flag leaves, as well as significantly reduced yield. These loss‐of‐function studies on the melatonin biosynthetic genes confirmed most previous pharmacological reports that melatonin not only promotes plant growth but also mitigates various abiotic stresses.
What is it like to take antipsychotic medication? A qualitative study of patients with first‐episode psychosis
Authors: Gray R. , Deane K.
Published: February 2016

Accessible summary

What is known on the subject?

Antipsychotic drugs are an important part of treatment for most patients with first episode psychosis.

We do not know much about what it is like to take these drugs from the patient's point of view.

What this paper adds to existing knowledge?

We talked to 20 young people with psychosis about their experiences of taking antipsychotic drugs.

Patients relationship with medication was complex, young people found medication often to be both good and bad at the same time.

We were interested in how seemingly trivial issues – colour, taste, size, name – could be very important to young people and could result in them stopping.

What are the implications for practice?

We think our study highlights the complicated internal struggles that people with first episode psychosis have with medication.

Our study highlights how Nurses and Doctors need to try and better understand what it is like to take these drugs and work collaboratively with patients to support them to make informed choices about treatment.

Background

Low‐dose antipsychotic medication is an important part of treatment for people experiencing a first episode of psychosis. Little is known about this group of patients’ experiences of taking medication.

Method

A qualitative study of purposively sampled young people experiencing a first episode of psychosis was carried out. A mental health nurse working in the early psychosis team interviewed participants using a structured topic guide. Interviews were subjected to thematic analysis.

Results

Interviews were completed with 20 young people. Thematic analysis generated six themes: (1) the drugs do work, (2) the drugs don't work (as well as I'd like), (3) side effects, (4) the indirect effects of medication, (5) rage against the machine and (6) the not trivial issues about medication.

Conclusion

Our overarching meta‐theme was that young people's experience of taking antipsychotics was complex; medication was often considered good and bad at the same time. Our observations underpin the importance of helping patients think through the use of antipsychotic medication in supporting their personal recovery.
Plant‐mediated pheromone emission by a hemipteran seed feeder increases the apparency of an unreliable but rewarding host
Authors: Stanton Mariana A. , Preβler Jens , Paetz Christian , Boland Wilhelm , Svatoš Aleš , Baldwin Ian T.
Published: February 2016

The defensive chemistry and persistence of plant tissues determine their suitability and apparency – the likelihood of being discovered – to insect herbivores. As consumers of plant tissues with transient apparency, florivores and seed‐feeders must frequently migrate between host plants to synchronize colonization with plant phenology. Aggregation pheromones could provide information‐based solutions to finding ephemeral hosts, but little is known about plant‐influenced variation in this form of chemical communication.

Combining analytical chemistry, de novo synthesis and field ecology, we investigated the change in colonization of two sympatric host plants, Nicotiana attenuata and Nicotiana obtusifolia, which differ in apparency‐related life history traits, by a heteropteran seed‐feeder, Corimelaena extensa.

We identified a novel pheromone released by C. extensa males – (5Z,8Z)‐tetradeca‐5,8‐dienal – and performed field assays with the synthetic pheromone, showing that it stimulates the formation of feeding aggregations on the post‐fire annual N. attenuata. Corimelaena extensa pheromone emission was 40‐fold higher when feeding on N. attenuata compared with the perennial N. obtusifolia, as were adult fecundity and seed capsule content of the putative biosynthetic precursor, linoleic acid.

Higher pheromone emission increases the apparency and colonization of the ephemeral, high‐quality host N. attenuata. This plant‐specific variation in insect signaling could facilitate host‐finding by seed‐feeders migrating between plant patches.
Methane emissions from the trunks of living trees on upland soils
Authors: Wang Zhi‐Ping , Gu Qian , Deng Feng‐Dan , Huang Jian‐Hui , Megonigal J. Patrick , Yu Qiang , Lü Xiao‐Tao , Li Ling‐Hao , Chang Scott , Zhang Yun‐Hai , Feng Jin‐Chao , Han Xing‐Guo
Published: February 2016

Upland forests are traditionally thought to be net sinks for atmospheric methane (CH4). In such forests, in situ CH4 fluxes on tree trunks have been neglected relative to soil and canopy fluxes.

We measured in situ CH4 fluxes from the trunks of living trees and other surfaces, such as twigs and soils, using a static closed‐chamber method, and estimated the CH4 budget in a temperate upland forest in Beijing.

We found that the trunks of Populus davidiana emitted large quantities of CH4 during July 2014–July 2015, amounting to mean annual emissions of 85.3 and 103.1 μg m−2 h−1 on a trunk surface area basis on two replicate plots. The emission rates were similar in magnitude to those from tree trunks in wetland forests. The emitted CH4 was derived from the heartwood of trunks. On a plot or ecosystem scale, trunk CH4 emissions were equivalent to c. 30–90% of the amount of CH4 consumed by soils throughout the year, with an annual average of 63%.

Our findings suggest that wet heartwoods, regardless of rot or not, occur widely in living trees on various habitats, where CH4 can be produced.
In pursuit of resilience: stress, epigenetics, and brain plasticity
Authors: McEwen Bruce S.
Published: February 2016

The brain is the central organ for adaptation to experiences, including stressors, which are capable of changing brain architecture as well as altering systemic function through neuroendocrine, autonomic, immune, and metabolic systems. Because the brain is the master regulator of these systems, as well as of behavior, alterations in brain function by chronic stress can have direct and indirect effects on cumulative allostatic overload, which refers to the cost of adaptation. There is much new knowledge on the neural control of systemic physiology and the feedback actions of physiologic mediators on brain regions regulating higher cognitive function, emotional regulation, and self‐regulation. The healthy brain has a considerable capacity for resilience, based upon its ability to respond to interventions designed to open “windows of plasticity” and redirect its function toward better health. As a result, plasticity‐facilitating treatments should be given within the framework of a positive behavioral intervention; negative experiences during this window may even make matters worse. Indeed, there are no magic bullets and drugs cannot substitute for targeted interventions that help an individual become resilient, of which mindfulness‐based stress reduction and meditation are emerging as useful tools.
Influence of inhaled corticosteroids on pubertal growth and final height in asthmatic children
Authors: De Leonibus Chiara , Attanasi Marina , Roze Zane , Martin Benedetta , Marcovecchio Maria Loredana , Di Pillo Sabrina , Chiarelli Francesco , Mohn Angelika
Published: February 2016

Background

Controversial data exist on the possibility that inhaled corticosteroids (ICs) affect growth in children with mild‐to‐moderate asthma. We assessed whether ICs affect growth and final height (FH) in asthmatic children compared to controls.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted on 113 asthmatic children compared with 66 control children. Asthmatic children presented with mild‐to‐moderate asthma and had exclusive ICs. Anthropometric data of four specific time‐points were collected for both groups (pre‐puberty, onset and late puberty, and FH) and converted to standard deviation scores (SDS). Growth trajectories were assessed as follows: (i) in puberty, using peak height velocity (PHV) and pubertal height gain SDS (PHG‐SDS); (ii) until FH achievement, using FH‐SDS and FH gain SDS (FHG‐SDS). Repeated measurement analysis was performed across longitudinal study visits. A general linear model (GLM) was performed in asthmatic group evaluating the effect of corticosteroid type, treatment duration, and cumulative dose on FH corrected for multiple variables.

Results

At pre‐puberty, height and weight SDS were similar between the groups (p > 0.05). Height SDS progressively declined over the study period in asthmatic patients from pre‐puberty to FH (p‐trend < 0.05), whereas it did not change over time in controls (p‐trend > 0.05), in both boys and girls. Asthmatic children had exclusive ICs [budesonide (n = 36) vs. fluticasone (n = 43) vs. mometasone (n = 34)] for a mean period of 6.25 ± 1.20 years and a mean cumulative dose of 560.07 ± 76.02 mg. They showed decreased PHG‐SDS and lower PHV compared to controls (all p < 0.05). FH‐SDS and FHG‐SDS were significantly reduced in asthmatic group compared to controls. FH in asthmatic patients was 2.5 ± 2.89 cm lower in boys and 2.0 ± 2.03 cm lower in girls than controls. The GLM showed that FH achievement was dependent on the type of ICs, duration of the treatment, and cumulative dose (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

ICs affect pubertal growth determining reduced final height in asthmatic children compared to controls, in a dose‐ and duration‐dependent manner.
Dexmedetomidine as a Sedative in the Awake Implantation of a Neuromodulative System
Authors: ter Bruggen Feline F. J. A. , Eralp Ismail , Leliveld Leo , Jansen Chris , Stronks Dirk L. , Huygen Frank J. P. M.
Published: February 2016

Objective

During implantation of a neuromodulative system, high patient satisfaction is closely associated with the equilibrium between an effective analgesia and sedation regimen, and the possibility for the patient to be awake and cooperative during procedure. This study assessed the efficacy of the sedative dexmedetomidine to achieve this balance, with patient satisfaction as the primary outcome.

Methods

Ten patients undergoing implantation of a dorsal column and dorsal root ganglion stimulator received dexmedetomidine (1 mcg/kg over 10 minutes, followed by 0.6 mcg/kg/hour) in combination with remifentanil at a set dose (3 mcg/kg/hour). Sedation was titrated to a Ramsay Sedation Score of 3. Recorded were as follows: patient satisfaction score, patient comfort score, operator comfort score, pain score, rescue medication and number of adjustments of dexmedetomidine intra‐operatively, as well as sedation level, hemodynamic (blood pressure and heart rate), and respiratory characteristics (SpO2).

Results

Scores were high on patient satisfaction (median 8.5; IQR 2.0), patient comfort (3.0; IQR 1.25), and operator comfort (4.0; IQR 1.0). In all patients, intra‐operative heart rate and mean arterial pressure were lower compared with baseline values. No respiratory depression or other complications related to anesthesia were reported. Moments of incident pain were effectively treated in 6 patients requiring an extra bolus of remifentanil.

Conclusion

In this study group, dexmedetomidine combined with remifentanil provided a high level of patient satisfaction and comfort, as well as operator comfort, without any clinically relevant adverse events. All patients were highly cooperative and instructable; incident pain needs to be closely monitored.
Maternal Weight Gain During Pregnancy: Comparing Methods to Address Bias Due to Length of Gestation in Epidemiological Studies
Authors: Hinkle Stefanie N. , Mitchell Emily M. , Grantz Katherine L. , Ye Aijun , Schisterman Enrique F.
Published: February 2016

Background

Studies examining total gestational weight gain (GWG) and outcomes associated with gestational age (GA) are potentially biased. The z‐score has been proposed to mitigate this bias. We evaluated a regression‐based adjustment for GA to remove the correlation between GWG and GA, and compared it to published weight‐gain‐for‐gestational‐age z‐scores when applied to a study sample with different underlying population characteristics.

Methods

Using 65 643 singleton deliveries to normal weight women at 12 US clinical sites, we simulated a null association between GWG and neonatal mortality. Logistic regression was used to estimate approximate relative risks (RR) of neonatal mortality associated with GWG, unadjusted and adjusted for GA, and the z‐score, overall and within study sites. Average RRs across 5000 replicates were calculated with 95% coverage probability to indicate model bias and precision, where 95% is nominal.

Results

Under a simulated null association, total GWG resulted in a biased mortality estimate (RR = 0.87; coverage = 0%); estimates adjusted for GA were unbiased (RR = 1.00; coverage = 94%). Quintile‐specific RRs ranged from 0.97–1.03. Similar results were observed for site‐specific analyses. The overall z‐score RR was 0.97 (84% coverage) with quintile‐specific RRs ranging from 0.64–0.90. Estimates were close to 1.0 at most sites, with coverage from 70–94%. Sites 1 and 6 were biased with RRs of 0.66 and 1.43, respectively, and coverage of 70% and 80%.

Conclusions

Adjusting for GA achieves unbiased estimates of the association between total GWG and neonatal mortality, providing an accessible alternative to the weight‐gain‐for‐gestational‐age z‐scores without requiring assumptions concerning underlying population characteristics.
An Argumentation Interface for Expert Opinion Evidence
Authors: Walton Douglas , Zhang Nanning
Published: February 2016

Tribunals have come to depend increasingly on expertise for determining the facts in cases. However, current legal methods have proved problematic to work with. This paper argues that, as a special model of public understanding of science, assessing expertise should consider source credibility of expertise from internal aspects, including scientific validity and reliability, and external aspects involving the credibility of experts. Using the Carneades Argumentation System we show that the internal and the external aspects are mediated by the structure of the argument from expert opinion with its matching set of critical questions.
On Normative Discourse
Authors: Zanetti Gianfrancesco
Published: February 2016

If speaking of justice were the same thing as banging on the table, then normative discourse could not be taken seriously. The aim of this paper, however, is to vindicate the meaningfulness, and rationality, of normative discourse, and to outline its conditions of possibility. Normative discourse can be understood as if there were, in its structure, different “stages,” or layers. In the transition from one stage to the next, complexity increases. Thus, I shall depict the emergence of normative discourse as a kind of genetic process.
Should we treat obesity in COPD? The effects of diet and resistance exercise training
Authors: McDonald Vanessa M. , Gibson Peter G. , Scott Hayley A. , Baines Penelope J. , Hensley Michael J. , Pretto Jeffrey J. , Wood Lisa G.
Published: February 2016

Background and objective

Obesity is an established risk factor for poor health outcomes, but paradoxically in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), it is associated with improved survival and lung function. A major evidence gap exisits to inform treatment recommendations for patients with COPD who are obese. We aimed to determine the effect of weight reduction involving a low‐energy diet utilizing a partial meal replacement plan, coupled with resistance exercise training in obese COPD patients.

Methods

In a proof of concept before–after clinical trial, obese (body mass index ≥30 kg/m2) COPD patients received a 12 week weight reduction programme involving meal replacements, dietary counselling by a dietitian and resistance exercise training prescribed and supervised by a physiotherapist. Patients were reviewed face to face by the dietitian and physiotherapist every 2 weeks for counselling.

Results

Twenty‐eight participants completed the intervention. Mean (standard deviation) body mass index was 36.3 kg/m2 (4.6) at baseline and reduced by 2.4 kg/m2 ((1.1) P < 0.0001) after the intervention. Importantly, skeletal muscle mass was maintained. Clinical outcomes improved with weight loss including exercise capacity, health status, dyspnea, strength and functional outcomes. There was also a significant reduction in the body mass index, obstruction, dyspnea and exercise score (BODE). Systemic inflammation measured by C‐reactive protein however did not change.

Conclusion

In obese COPD patients, dietary energy restriction coupled with resistance exercise training results in clinically significant improvements in body mass index, exercise tolerance and health status, whilst preserving skeletal muscle mass. This novel study provides a framework for development of guidelines for the management of obese COPD patients and in guiding future research.
A Test for Stationarity for Irregularly Spaced Spatial Data
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Soutir , Rao Suhasini Subba
Published: February 2016

The analysis of spatial data is based on a set of assumptions, which in practice need to be checked. A commonly used assumption is that the spatial random field is second-order stationary. In the paper, a test for spatial stationarity for irregularly sampled data is proposed. The test is based on a transformation of the data (a type of Fourier transform), where the correlations between the transformed data are close to 0 if the random field is second-order stationary. However, if the random field were second-order non-stationary, this property does not hold. Using this property a test for second-order stationarity is constructed. The test statistic is based on measuring the degree of correlation in the transformed data. The asymptotic sampling properties of the test statistic are derived under both stationarity and non-stationarity of the random field. These results motivate a graphical tool which allows a visual representation of the non-stationary features. The method is illustrated with simulations and a real data example.
It's Not Whether You Win or Lose, It's How You Place the Blame: Shifting Perceptions of Recreancy in the Context of the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill
Authors: Cope Michael R. , Slack Tim , Blanchard Troy C. , Lee Matthew R.
Published: February 2016

A key theoretical concept in the study of technological disasters is “recreancy,” which refers to perception that institutional actors have failed to carry out their responsibilities in a manner that engenders societal trust. Using household survey data from the Community Oil Spill Survey (COSS) to assess recreancy in the context of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, we analyze four waves of the COSS collected between 2010 and 2013 to explore respondents’ perceptions of blame and distrust in relation to key institutional actors associated with the disaster, paying special attention to the influence of time and employment in natural resource occupations. We show that BP is clearly viewed as the principal responsible party at fault for the disaster and that the odds of blaming BP and the federal government have held relatively steady over time, while the odds of blaming state government increased over time. We find high levels of distrust of BP and the federal government, but show that odds of being distrustful of both institutional actors was significantly lower three years after the spill. Fishing households were significantly more likely to blame and be distrustful of institutional actors, a finding that is strongly consistent with theoretical expectations.
The Association of Multiple Identities with Self‐Directed Violence and Depression among Transgender Individuals
Authors: Lytle Megan C. , Blosnich John R. , Kamen Charles
Published: February 2016

Transgender individuals have a high prevalence of self‐directed violence; however, there is scant literature focusing on their unique experiences. The differences in self‐harm, suicidal ideation, suicide attempt, and depression based on racial/ethnic identity and sexual orientation were examined among transgender individuals. Data were gathered from the Fall 2008 and Spring 2009 National College Health Assessment. Across racial/ethnic identities, greater proportions of transgender students endorsed self‐directed violence than their cisgender peers. Among transgender individuals, sexual minorities were more likely to report suicidal ideation than their heterosexual peers, and racial/ethnic minorities had higher odds of attempting suicide than non‐Hispanic White individuals.
Switzerland on the Road from a Consociational to a Centrifugal Democracy?
Authors: Vatter Adrian
Published: February 2016

Can Switzerland still be classified as an example of consociational democracy, characterized by power sharing and elite cooperation, by the second decade of the 21st century? Drawing on Lijphart's typology of consociational and centrifugal regimes, an analysis of the transformation of Swiss democracy reveals that while Switzerland continues to display institutional elements of power sharing, a polarizing and competitive trend can be observed in the governing style of the elite. Increasingly adversarial elite behaviour and a growing polarization within parliament and government as well as with regards to referendums indicate a growing shift toward centrifugal democracy.
Environmental factors and population at risk of malaria in Nkomazi municipality, South Africa
Authors: Adeola A. M. , Botai O. J. , Olwoch J. M. , Rautenbach C. J. de W. , Adisa O. M. , Taiwo O. J. , Kalumba A. M.
Published: February 2016

Objective

Nkomazi local municipality of South Africa is a high‐risk malaria region with an incidence rate of about 500 cases per 100 000. We examined the influence of environmental factors on population (age group) at risk of malaria.

Methods

r software was used to statistically analyse data. Using remote sensing technology, a Landsat 8 image of 4th October 2015 was classified using object‐based classification and a 5‐m resolution. Spot height data were used to generate a digital elevation model of the area.

Results

A total of 60 718 malaria cases were notified across 48 health facilities in Nkomazi municipality between January 1997 and August 2015. Malaria incidence was highly associated with irrigated land (P = 0.001), water body (P = 0.011) and altitude ≤400 m (P = 0.001). The multivariate model showed that with 10% increase in the extent of irrigated areas, malaria risk increased by almost 39% in the entire study area and by almost 44% in the 2‐km buffer zone of selected villages. Malaria incidence is more pronounced in the economically active population aged 15–64 and in males. Both incidence and case fatality rate drastically declined over the study period.

Conclusion

A predictive model based on environmental factors would be useful in the effort towards malaria elimination by fostering appropriate targeting of control measures and allocating of resources.