bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ecological differentiation between coexisting sexual and asexual strains of Daphnia pulex
Authors: Lehto Mikko P. , Haag Christoph R.
Published: July 2010

1. The widespread occurrence of sexual reproduction indicates that the benefits of sex can overcome its costs relative to asexual reproduction. Many closely related sexual and asexual taxa have different geographic distributions suggesting that their relative fitness may depend on the environment. However, support for such ecological differentiation is mainly based on correlative evidence, with experimental support being scarce, especially from the wild.

2. We studied ecological differentiation between asexual (obligate parthenogenetic) and sexual (cyclical parthenogenetic) Daphnia pulex in Southern Finland, where the two forms (‘reproduction types’) coexist regionally in a metapopulation. We found differences in several environmental factors between ponds inhabited by sexual and asexual populations (pH, calcium, oxygen, conductivity and absorbance).

3. A reciprocal competition experiment carried out directly in the natural ponds confirmed that sexuals and asexuals were ecologically differentiated; their relative fitness was found to depend on pH and calcium titres of the ponds.

4. Our study provides clear experimental evidence for the coexistence of closely related sexual and asexual taxa being mediated by ecological differentiation. In addition, the results of our competition experiment suggest that each of the reproduction types has a larger fundamental niche (absence of competition) than a realized niche (presence of competition). Thus, by temporarily creating competition‐free space, metapopulation turnover may allow the reproduction types to occur in a wider range of habitats than under more stable population dynamics, and may thus further contribute to stabilize regional coexistence.
Predicting invasive alien plant distributions: how geographical bias in occurrence records influences model performance
Authors: Wolmarans René , Robertson Mark P. , van Rensburg Berndt J.
Published: July 2010

Aim  To investigate the impact of geographical bias on the performance of ecological niche models for invasive plant species.

Location  South Africa and Australia.

Methods  We selected 10 Australian plants invasive in South Africa and nine South African plants invasive in Australia. Geographical bias was simulated in occurrence records obtained from the native range of a species to represent two scenarios. For the first scenario (A, worst‐case) a proportion of records were excluded from a specific region of a species’ range and for the second scenario (B, less extreme) only some records were excluded from that specific region of the range. Introduced range predictions were produced with the Maxent modelling algorithm where models were calibrated with datasets from these biased occurrence records and 19 bioclimatic variables. Models were evaluated with independent test data obtained from the introduced range of the species. Geographical bias was quantified as the proportional difference between the occurrence records from a control and a biased dataset, and environmental bias was expressed as either the difference in marginality or tolerance between these datasets. Model performance [assessed using the conventional and modified AUC (area under the curve of receiver‐operating characteristic plots) and the maximum true skill statistic] was compared between models calibrated with occurrence records from a biased dataset and a control dataset.

Results  We found considerable variation in the relationship between geographical and environmental bias. Environmental bias, expressed as the difference in marginality, differed significantly across treatments. Model performance did not differ significantly among treatments. Regions predicted as suitable for most of the species were very similar when compared between a biased and control dataset, with only a few exceptions.

Main conclusions  The geographical bias simulated in this study was sufficient to result in significant environmental bias across treatments, but despite this we did not find a significant effect on model performance. Differences in the environmental spaces occupied by the species in their native and invaded ranges may explain why we did not find a significant effect on model performance.
Tree diversity on islands: assembly rules, passive sampling and the theory of island biogeography
Authors: Burns K. C. , Berg Jenny , Bialynicka‐Birula Ada , Kratchmer Sabrina , Shortt Katelyn
Published: July 2010

Aim  Species diversity is distributed heterogeneously through space, for reasons that are poorly understood. We tested three hypotheses to account for spatial variation in coniferous tree species diversity in a temperate island archipelago. The theory of island biogeography (ToIB) predicts that island area affects species diversity both directly (by increasing habitat diversity) and indirectly (by increasing abundances, which in turn reduce extinction rates). The ToIB also predicts that island isolation directly affects species diversity by reducing immigration rates. The passive sampling hypothesis predicts that island area and isolation both affect species diversity indirectly, by increasing and decreasing abundances, respectively. Community assembly rules (i.e. even partitioning of conifer abundances among islands) might also reduce tree species diversity beyond the core predictions of ToIB and the passive sampling hypothesis.

Location  Barkley Sound, British Columbia, Canada.

Methods  The abundances of eight coniferous tree species were quantified on 34 islands and two (1 ha) mainland plots. The predictions of the ToIB and the passive sampling hypothesis were tested using path analysis, and null models were used to test for abundance‐based assembly rules and to further test the passive sampling hypothesis.

Results  Path analysis showed that island area and isolation did not have direct, statistical effects on tree species diversity. Instead, both geographic variables had direct statistical effects on total tree abundances, which in turn predicted tree diversity. Results from several passive sampling null models were correlated with observed patterns in species diversity, but they consistently overestimated the number of tree species inhabiting most islands. A different suite of null models showed support for community assembly rules, or that tree species often reached higher abundances on islands that housed fewer heterospecific trees.

Main conclusions  Results were inconsistent with the ToIB. Instead, patterns in tree diversity were best explained by a combination of stochastic (passive sampling) and deterministic (assembly rules) processes. Stochastic and deterministic processes are commonly considered to be exclusive explanations for island community structure, but results from this study suggest that they can work synergistically to structure island tree communities.
High Arctic plant community resists 15 years of experimental warming
Authors: Hudson James M. G. , Henry Greg H. R.
Published: July 2010

1. Identifying plant communities that are resistant to climate change will be critical for developing accurate, wide‐scale vegetation change predictions. Most northern plant communities, especially tundra, have shown strong responses to experimental and observed warming.

2. Experimental warming is a key tool for understanding vegetation responses to climate change. We used open‐top chambers to passively warm an evergreen‐shrub heath by 1.0–1.3 °C for 15 years at Alexandra Fiord, Nunavut, Canada (79 °N). In 1996, 2000 and 2007, we measured height, plant composition and abundance with a point‐intercept method.

3. Experimental warming did not strongly affect vascular plant cover, canopy height or species diversity, but it did increase bryophyte cover by 6.3% and decrease lichen cover by 3.5%. Temporal changes in plant cover were more frequent and of greater magnitude than changes due to experimental warming.

4. Synthesis. This evergreen‐shrub heath continues to exhibit community‐level resistance to long‐term experimental warming, in contrast to most Arctic plant communities. Our findings support the view that only substantial climatic changes will alter unproductive ecosystems.
Operating room cost for coronary artery bypass graft procedures: does experience or severity of illness matter?
Authors: Chung Wei‐Ching , Fan Pao‐Luo , Chiu Herng‐Chia , Yang Chun‐Yuh , Huang Kun‐Lun , Tzeng Dong‐Sheng
Published: July 2010

Objective  Very few studies have addressed the magnitude of the effect of the condition of the patients and the surgical volume on possible cost savings in coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). The objectives of this study were to analyse and compare the costs of the CABG operating room (OR) between two hospitals, and to examine the effect of surgical volume and severity of illness on the OR costs.

Method  The charts of patients who were diagnosed with coronary artery disease and who underwent CABG at two acute tertiary care hospitals in 2004 were reviewed retrospectively. Data on patient demographics, length of stay (LOS) and the American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status (ASAPS) score were extracted from the patient records. Cost information was obtained from detailed billing charges and from the financial accounting divisions of the hospitals.

Results  The high‐volume hospital consumed fewer resources than the low‐volume hospital (US$5411 vs. US$6407). The age of the patients, surgical volume, operating hours and LOS were associated with the OR cost. Patient age and ASAPS score, hospital, and surgical volume were associated with LOS. Patient age, the number of diseased vessels, doctor volume and pump used or not were positively associated with the operation time. The LOS and the operation time may be the mediators of the relationship between the ASAPS score and cost, and may moderate the association of volume with cost.

Conclusions  This study supports the saying that ‘practice makes perfect’. The knowledge and experience of the surgeons and the hospital management team are equally important in the supply of health services to patients with varying severity of illness, and are needed to maintain the competitive position of a hospital.
Creation and validation of the evidence‐based practice confidence scale for health care professionals
Authors: Salbach Nancy M. , Jaglal Susan B.
Published: July 2010

Rationale  Self‐efficacy beliefs may provide a means to influence health care professionals' (HCPs) engagement in evidence‐based practice (EBP) but no standardized measure of this construct exists.

Objectives  To create and evaluate the validity and comprehensibility of a scale measuring belief in ability to implement EBP, known as EBP self‐efficacy, among HCPs.

Methods  Items describing the steps of EBP outlined in the literature were generated. Fourteen content experts reviewed the scale for face and content validity. A purposive sample of 10 HCPs from medicine, nursing, physical and occupational therapy and speech language pathology provided feedback on the clarity and meaning of scale wording in telephone interviews.

Results  Progressive refinement yielded an 11‐item self‐report scale. Each item describes an activity that is part of the process of implementing EBP, such as formulating a question to guide a literature search and asking your patient or client about his/her needs, values and treatment preferences. To complete the scale, HCPs rate their level of confidence on an 11‐point scale ranging from 0% (no confidence) to 100% (completely confident) in their ability to perform each activity. Item‐level responses are averaged to obtain a summary score that can range from 0% to 100%.

Conclusion  The newly created scale, named the EPIC (evidence‐based practice confidence) scale, provides an opportunity to evaluate HCPs' beliefs in their ability to implement EBP and the effects of interventions on these beliefs. Psychometric evaluation of the test‐retest reliability and construct validity of the scale is necessary prior to its widespread use.
The validation of a clinical algorithm for the prevention and management of pulmonary dysfunction in intubated adults – a synthesis of evidence and expert opinion
Authors: Hanekom Susan , Berney Sue , Morrow Brenda , Ntoumenopoulos George , Paratz Jennifer , Patman Shane , Louw Quinette
Published: July 2010

Background  Pulmonary dysfunction (PDF) in intubated patients remains a serious and costly complication of intensive care unit care. Optimal cardiopulmonary therapy strategies to prevent and manage PDF need clarification to reduce practice variability. The purpose of this paper is to report on the content validation of an evidence‐based clinical management algorithm (EBCMA) aimed at the prevention, identification and management of PDF in critically ill patients.

Methods  Forty‐four draft algorithm statements extracted from the extant literature by the primary research team were verified and rated by research clinicians (n = 7) in an electronic three‐round Delphi process. Statements which reached a priori defined consensus [semi‐interquartile range (SIQR) <0.5] were collated into the EBCMA.

Results  One hundred per cent response rate. Forty‐four statements were added after round one. Consensus was reached on rating of 83% (73/88) statements. Differences in interpretation of the existing evidence base, and variations in accepted clinical practice were identified. Four themes were identified where panel failed to reach consensus.

Conclusion  The internationally agreed hierarchical framework of current available evidence and clinical expertise developed through this Delphi process provides clinicians with a tool to inform clinical practice. This tool has the potential to reduce practice variability thereby maximizing safety and treatment outcome. The clinical utility of the EBCMA requires further evaluation.
Changing doctors' behaviours: an educational program to disseminate a new clinical pathway for the hospital management of hip fractures in elderly patients in the Lazio Region, Italy
Authors: Ciaschi Alma , Caprara Andrea , Gillespie Francesca , Furnari Giacomo , Mamede Sílvia
Published: July 2010

Rationale and aims Concerns with patient safety have increased interest in approaches to improving doctors' performance, yet dissemination of clinical guidelines and conventional continuing medical education have often failed. This study investigated the effects of an educational program based on reflection upon experience on the quality of care for patients with hip fracture in Lazio, Italy.

Methods Five hospitals participated. The study consisted of the development of a clinical pathway, a preparatory phase and the educational intervention itself, which comprised a course followed by monthly audits with reflection on practice, guided by analysis of patients' charts. Data on the quality of care for patients with hip fracture were collected from the routine information system for the period before and after the intervention.

Results There was a significant increase in the proportion of patients who underwent surgery within 48 hours of admission (from 7% in 2006 to 26.4% in 2007) and a significant reduction in the average length of hospital stay (from 18.8 to 16.4 days). Some process indicators of quality of care were high after the intervention, though non‐recommended practices were still routinely used (e.g. urinary catheterization in 72.2% of patients). There were differences in the changes when comparing hospitals.

Conclusion An educational intervention that combined the dissemination of a clinical pathway with external auditing geared to reflection upon practice was effective in promoting changes in doctors' behaviours. The persistence of non‐recommended practices and the variation among hospitals indicate that multiple factors influence performance and affect the effectiveness of interventions.
Using complexity to promote group learning in health care
Authors: Arrow Holly , Henry Kelly B.
Published: July 2010

Rationale  Multidisciplinary groups are common in the health care arena, from operating teams to mental health treatment groups to guideline development groups. Differences among group members in information, background, training and skills can potentially help groups reach good decisions and complete complex tasks in variable circumstances. Too often, however, differences in values, status and preferences prevent these groups from achieving the potential benefits of diversity, marooning them instead in an unproductive fixed state.

Aim  Drawing on the literature on diversity and complex adaptive systems, we discuss how to improve the functioning of multidisciplinary groups by increasing the spontaneous flow of information and energy to shift groups into the complex state.

Conclusion  Differentiation needs to be balanced by integration. Differences that pose obstacles need to be transformed into gradients to achieve complex self‐organization and effective group coordination.
Borderline competence – from a complexity perspective: conceptualization and implementation for certifying examinations
Authors: Sturmberg Joachim P. , Hinchy John
Published: July 2010

Background  Passing or failing a candidate is a complex decision with one essential aspect being the definition of the required minimal level of competence. Commonly used methods, such as the Angoff method, are based on the ‘borderline competence’ concept; however, the method describes a ‘borderline candidate’– a fictitious person, rather than describing a set of clearly defined criteria that describe a real person whose competencies fall between the clearly incompetent and clearly competent – the borderline zone.

Approach and findings  We argue that competence arises from the combination of discrete abilities across the entire subject domain including the interaction of some of those abilities, where strengths in some interacting abilities could partly compensate for weaknesses in others. We further argue that scores in the borderline zone may include combinations of abilities in which deficiencies are sufficiently compensated for by areas of strength, thus ensuring competency, while other, similarly scoring combinations do not include required compensations to ensure competency. We offer evidence that standard setting judges systematically and consistently assess the level of required ability on each individual task, taking into account the characteristics of those tasks based on the significance – being a function of the severity and incidence of that condition, and the ability to help – and the difficulty of executing that task.

Implications  Consequently, a borderline zone of competence implies an overlap of competence and incompetence with respect to the level of performance on tasks of varying clinical significance. We further suggest that this overlap can be conceptualized as a folding of the ‘competence plane’ (consistent with a cusp catastrophe model) that cuts the space defined by performance levels on clinical conditions of varying significance, with their associated skills requirements. That folding defines the borderline zone in which competent candidates will perform most of the tasks in the borderline zone correctly whereas incompetent candidates will fail most tasks.
β‐Melanocyte‐Stimulating Hormone Potently Reduces Appetite Via the Hypothalamus in Chicks
Authors: Smith M. L. , Prall B. , Nandar W. , Cline M. A.
Published: July 2010

The melanocortin system together with other appetite‐related systems plays a significant role in appetite regulation. The appetite‐related effects of one such melanocortin, β‐melanocyte‐stimulating hormone (MSH), are well documented in rodents; however, its effects in the avian class are not thoroughly understood. Thus, we designed a study to determine the effects of i.c.v. β‐MSH injection on food and water intake, plasma corticosterone concentration, ingestive and non‐ingestive behaviours, and hypothalamic neuronal activation using Cobb‐500 chicks. Chicks responded to β‐MSH‐treatment with a reduction in food and water intake; however when water intake was measured independently of food intake, it was not affected. β‐MSH‐treated chicks also had increased plasma corticosterone concentrations and increased c‐Fos reactivity in the periventricular, paraventricular and infundibular nuclei, and the ventromedial hypothalamus; however, the lateral hypothalamus was not affected. The effect on food intake is primary because behaviours that may be competitive with food intake were not increased in β‐MSH‐treated chicks. Based on these results, we conclude that β‐MSH causes anorexigenic effects that are likely primarily mediated via stimulation of satiety‐related hypothalamic nuclei in broiler‐type chicks.
Dynamics of bovine spleen cell populations during the acute response to Babesia bovis infection: an immunohistological study
Authors: SCHNEIDER D. A. , YAN H. , BASTOS R. G. , JOHNSON W. C. , GAVIN P. R. , ALLEN A. J. , BARRINGTON G. M. , HERRMANN‐HOESING L. M. , KNOWLES D. P. , GOFF W. L.
Published: July 2010

The spleen is a critical organ in defence against haemoparasitic diseases like babesiosis. Many in vitro and ex vivo studies have identified splenic cells working in concert to activate mechanisms required for successful resolution of infection. The techniques used in those studies, however, remove cells from the anatomical context in which cell interaction and trafficking take place. In this study, an immunohistological approach was used to monitor the splenic distribution of defined cells during the acute response of naïve calves to Babesia bovis infection. Splenomegaly was characterized by disproportionate hyperplasia of large versus small leucocytes and altered distribution of several cell types thought to be important in mounting an effective immune response. In particular, the results suggest that the initial crosstalk between NK cells and immature dendritic cells occurs within the marginal zone and that immature dendritic cells are first redirected to encounter pathogens as they enter the spleen and then mature as they process antigen and migrate to T‐cell‐rich areas. The results of this study are remarkably similar to those observed in a mouse model of malarial infection, suggesting these dynamic events may be central to the acute response of naïve animals to haemoparasitic infection.
Phytochelatin synthesis plays a similar role in shoots of the cadmium hyperaccumulator Sedum alfredii as in non‐resistant plants
Authors: ZHANG ZHONG‐CHUN , CHEN BO‐XIA , QIU BAO‐SHENG
Published: July 2010

Phytochelatin (PC) synthesis is considered necessary for Cd tolerance in non‐resistant plants, but roles for PCs in hyper‐accumulating species are currently unknown. In the present study, the relationship between PC synthesis and Cd accumulation was investigated in the Cd hyperaccumulator Sedum alfredii Hance. PCs were most abundant in leaves followed by stems, but hardly detected by the reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) in roots. Both PC synthesis and Cd accumulation were time‐dependent and a linear correlation between the two was established with about 1:15 PCs : Cd stoichiometry in leaves. PCs were found in the elution fractions, which were responsible for Cd peaks in the anion exchange chromatograph assay. About 5% of the total Cd was detected in these elution fractions as PCs were found. Most Cd was observed in the cell wall and intercellular space of leaf vascular cells. These results suggest that PCs do not detoxify Cd in roots of S. alfredii. However, like in non‐resistant plants, PCs might act as the major intracellular Cd detoxification mechanism in shoots of S. alfredii.
Aragonite loss in a cold‐water coral mound: mechanisms and implications
Authors: FRANK TRACY D , TITSCHACK JÜRGEN , THIERENS MIEKE
Published: July 2010

Selective dissolution of aragonitic grains is emerging as a volumetrically significant process that affects a broad range of modern carbonate settings. This study explores mechanisms and implications of aragonite loss in Challenger Mound, a giant cold‐water coral (Lophelia pertusa) mound of Pleistocene age, which lies on the continental slope off south‐west Ireland. A comprehensive sampling scheme allowed the integration of petrographic data with geochemical analyses of sediment and pore water. The mound remains virtually unlithified and consists of stacked, fining‐upward cycles of silty coral floatstone–rudstone and bafflestone grading into wackestone. Whereas calcitic grains appear unaltered, aragonitic grains are corroded and fragmented. Aragonite dissolution is attributed to organic matter oxidation at/near the sediment–water interface and, at greater depths, to the initial stages of bacterially mediated sulphate reduction, when alkalinity production is outpaced by the generation of H+. Pore water profiles indicate that undersaturated waters are diffusing towards the mound interior from two centres of sulphate reduction: one located in the upper 10 m of the sediment column and a second that lies below an erosional unconformity which marks the base of the mound. Continued aragonite dissolution is expected to gradually lower the diagenetic potential of the Challenger Mound and delay lithification until deep burial, when solution‐compaction processes come into play. Despite a fundamental role in predestining the final taphonomic and textural characteristics of Challenger Mound, the processes described here are expected to leave little trace in the geological record due to a lack of cementation and calcitization. Assuming that similar processes have been active throughout the Phanerozoic, results imply that the understanding of diagenetic processes in carbonate systems may be incomplete.
Prevalence of the Child Behavior Checklist‐pediatric bipolar disorder phenotype in a German general population sample
Authors: Holtmann Martin , Bölte Sven , Goth Kirstin , Döpfner Manfred , Plück Julia , Huss Michael , Fegert Jörg M , Lehmkuhl Gerd , Schmeck Klaus , Poustka Fritz
Published: July 2010

Background:  In children with pediatric bipolar disorder (PBD), a consistent pattern of elevations in inattention/hyperactivity, depression/anxiety, and aggression has been identified on the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL‐PBD profile). In Germany, no epidemiological study has included PBD to date.

Objectives:  To estimate the six‐month prevalence of the CBCL‐PBD profile in Germany in a large normative general population sample, and to examine subjects with CBCL‐PBD profile with regard to symptoms assumed to coexist with PBD (e.g., suicidality, decreased need for sleep, and hypersexuality).

Methods:  We studied a nationwide representative general population sample of 2,856 children and adolescents aged 4–18 years.

Results:  A total of 21 subjects [0.7% of the sample; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.5–1.1] met the criteria for the CBCL‐PBD phenotype. CBCL‐PBD subjects were more pervasively disturbed than clinical controls (n = 118; 4.1% of total sample; 95% CI = 3.4–4.9), demonstrated in significantly more social problems and delinquent behavior, and showed significantly higher rates of suicidality, decreased need for sleep and hypersexual behavior.

Conclusions:  The prevalence of CBCL‐PBD subjects in the general German population compares to rates of PBD in US and Dutch epidemiological samples. Regardless of whether these subjects are affected by ‘real’ PBD or ‘severe, pervasive ADHD’ with pronounced emotional dysregulation, they constitute a group of seriously disturbed children and adolescents. The high rate of suicidality among CBCL‐PBD subjects emphasizes the need for the identification and adequate treatment of children meeting this profile.
Developing seamount fishery produces localized reductions in abundance and changes in species composition of bycatch
Authors: Niklitschek Edwin J. , Cornejo‐Donoso Jorge , Oyarzún Ciro , Hernández Eduardo , Toledo Pamela
Published: July 2010

Evidence of localized and cumulative impacts of bottom‐trawling upon bycatch abundance and diversity was found during the 8‐year period the Chilean orange roughy (Hoplostethus atlanticus) fishery was open. We analyzed acoustic, orange roughy catch and fish bycatch data available from a voluntary monitoring program implemented by the fishing‐rights holders. Acoustic data, recorded from the third year of the fishery (2002) until its closure in 2006, permitted us to extract detailed bathymetry and precise information about trawl tows. From these data we reconstructed the yearly and cumulative extent of the bottom trawling footprint and compared biodiversity indices, bycatch abundance and assemblage structure between nominally pristine areas and others that exhibited different levels of previous trawling impacts (as measured by within‐ and across‐years impact indices). Although the footprint area expanded as the cumulated number of tows increased, degrees of overlapping between tows were found in all seamounts. The trawled footprint was 22 km2 for the 2002–2006 period, equivalent to 2.7% of the study area. An extrapolation to include unassigned tows and years without data (1999–2001) increased this estimate to 81 km2 (9.8% of the study area) for the entire duration of the fishery. The relative abundance of bycatch species decreased at more heavily impacted areas, suggesting a local depletion response. Evidence of bycatch species richness decline and significant changes in diversity and species assemblage composition were also found at these areas. Seamount management and conservation efforts must consider the cumulative and localized nature of bottom trawling effects we found to occur upon seamount fish communities.
Environmental predictors and turnover of biota along a seamount chain
Authors: O’Hara Timothy D. , Consalvey Mireille , Lavrado Helena P. , Stocks Karen I.
Published: July 2010

Biological communities on seamounts are widely regarded as being distinct from those in other offshore habitats, but it is unclear what factors drive any differences. We used invertebrate and algal data from the extensive REVIZEE benthic surveys from the continental margin and seamounts in the Southwest Atlantic Ocean off Eastern Brazil to investigate environmental predictors of seamount assemblage composition. We found that seamount summit samples were significantly different from those of the continental shelf for both invertebrates and algae. Invertebrate samples from the shelf showed more spatial variability than those from seamounts, congruent with the increased variability in both sampled sea‐floor habitats and oceanographic conditions recorded along the continental margin. The most important environmental predictors of assemblage composition across all habitats were distance from shore, temperature, dissolved oxygen and particulate organic carbon for invertebrates, and distance from shore, nitrate and phosphate concentrations for algae. Only distance from shore for invertebrates, and distance from shore, nitrate and phosphate concentrations for algae were consistently emphasised in analyses restricted to seamount and island samples. We found no support for the hypothesis that seamount assemblages in this region become less species rich with distance from the continental margin. However, algal samples did form a serial gradient of compositional turnover with distance from shore. In summary, the seamounts shared the same species pool as nearby continental margins but samples contained a different, equally rich, assemblage of species.
Conflicting estimates of connectivity among deep‐sea coral populations
Authors: Miller Karen , Williams Alan , Rowden Ashley A. , Knowles Claire , Dunshea Glenn
Published: July 2010

Genetic data were used as an indirect means of assessing connectivity among deep‐sea coral populations on seamounts and slopes in the Australian and New Zealand region. We sequenced three DNA regions (16S, ITS and Control Region) in nine deep‐sea coral species from sites spanning thousands of kilometers. Based on haplotype distributions and AMOVA, we found evidence of genetic subdivision across ocean expanses for three species: the scleractinian Desmophyllum dianthus, and the antipatharians Antipathes robillardi and Stichopathes variabilis. Levels of genetic variation were low for the remaining species, including the reef‐forming Solenosmila variablis and Madrepora oculata, and more sensitive molecular markers may be needed to resolve their spatial structure properly. For two species (the scleractinian Stephanocyathus spiniger and the antipatharian Stichopathes filiformis), we found no evidence of genetic subdivision among sites within regions, suggesting sufficient gene flow occurs to maintain genetic homogeneity at scales of tens to hundreds of kilometers. Recognising that some seamount regions and coral populations are, or are not, effectively isolated will be a key component of successful management planning based on marine protected area networks – both within and beyond national jurisdictions.
Modification of the zone of polarizing activity signal by trypsin
Authors: Stefanov Emily K. , Ferrage Jordan M. , Parchim Nicholas F. , Lee Christine E. , Reginelli Angela D. , Taché Mara , Anderson Rosalie A.
Published: July 2010

Patterning of the developing vertebrate limb along the anterior‐posterior axis is controlled by the zone of polarizing activity (ZPA) via the expression of Sonic hedgehog (Shh) and along the proximal‐distal axis by the apical ectodermal ridge (AER) through the production of fibroblast growth factors (FGFs). ZPA grafting, as well as ectopic application of SHH to the anterior chick limb bud, demonstrate that digit patterning is largely influenced by these secreted factors. Although signal transduction pathways have been well characterized for SHH and for FGFs, little is known of how these signals are regulated extracellularly in the limb. The present study shows that alteration of the extracellular environment through trypsin treatment can have profound effects on digit patterning. These effects appear to be mediated by the induction of Shh in host tissues and by ectopic AER formation, implicating the extracellular matrix in regulating the signaling activities of key patterning genes in the limb.
Changes of telomere length with aging
Authors: Takubo Kaiyo , Aida Junko , Izumiyama‐Shimomura Naotaka , Ishikawa Naoshi , Sawabe Motoji , Kurabayashi Rie , Shiraishi Hiroaki , Arai Tomio , Nakamura Ken‐Ichi
Published: July 2010

We reviewed our methodology and results of telomere measurements, with reference to telomere length and aging. Human tissues always showed telomere shortening with age, except for the brain and myocardium. Yearly rates of telomere length reduction in various tissues were mostly within the range 20–60 bp, and thus compatible with that expected from only one round of mitosis. It was suggested that when telomeres were found to be longer in any specific organ in a given individual, then the other organs in that individual would also have longer telomeres. Using the quantitative fluorescence in situ hybridization (Q‐FISH) method for telomere measurement, we were able to measure the telomere lengths of various cell types within tissues. Here we summarize the results obtained for various cell types in the stomach, tongue and breast. Our Q‐FISH method using our original software program “Tissue Telo” is excellent for measuring telomere lengths using tissue sections and PNA probes. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2010; 10 (Suppl. 1): S197–S206.
‘Insignificant’ prostate cancer on prostatectomy and cystoprostatectomy: variation on a theme ‘low‐volume/ low‐grade’ prostate cancer?
Authors: Trpkov Kiril , Yilmaz Asli , Bismar Tarek A. , Montironi Rodolfo
Published: July 2010

Although ‘insignificant’ prostate cancer has been examined separately in radical prostatectomy (RP) and radical cystoprostatectomy (RCP) studies, it is not entirely clear whether cancers designated as ‘insignificant’ on RP and RCP represent the same, similar or different forms of prostate cancer. Insignificant prostate cancer has been traditionally defined based on the pathological findings in the whole prostate gland. In addition to the pathological determinants of ‘insignificant’ prostate cancer, it is also important to account for the biological and the clinical context of the disease, as well as patient age and health status to designate a prostate cancer ‘insignificant’. This review examines and compares prostate cancers described as ‘insignificant’ on RP and RCP. We conclude that in most cases these low‐volume/low‐grade prostate cancers represent an early stage and clinically ‘silent’ disease, which are only detected in different clinical settings.
Treatment of neurogenic male urinary incontinence related to intrinsic sphincter insufficiency with an artificial urinary sphincter: a French retrospective multicentre study
Authors: Kastler Emmanuel Chartier , Genevois Sandra , Gamé Xavier , Denys Pierre , Richard Francois , Leriche Albert , Saramon Jean Pierre , Ruffion Alain
Published: July 2010

Study Type – Therapy (retrospective cohort) Level of Evidence 2b

What’s known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Intermittent catheterism is, in 2011, the gold standard of care for neurogenic bladder. Artificial urinary sphincter is also a gold standard for sphincteric insufficiency. If a patient with a neurogenic bladder needs needs an artificial urinary sphincter, the risk of urethral erosion is increased.

This article describes the position of the device around the bladder neck to decrease this complication.

OBJECTIVE

To assess results and morbidity of the periprostatic insertion of an artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) in adult male patients with a neurogenic bladder.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A retrospective study was carried out on 51 adult male patients operated on in four urologic academic wards from April 1988 to January 2008. Among these patients, 31% (16/51) had spina bifida and 69% (35/51) had spinal cord injury. All patients suffered urinary incontinence secondary to sphincteric deficiency, and this was associated with detrusor overactivity in 39% of them (leading in these cases to an added bladder augmentation). Perfect continence was defined as a period of dryness of at least 4 h between two self‐intermittent catheterizations (SIC) or spontaneous micturitions, moderate incontinence as nocturnal leakage or need to wear protection once during the day or for stress leakage, while severe incontinence was defined as uncontrollable leakage causing patient discomfort.

RESULTS

Mean age at the procedure was 35 years (18–58). Mean follow‐up was 83 months (CI 95%, 65–101). At the end of the study, 15 patients (29.4%) were lost to follow‐up. One patient (2%) died shortly after the procedure from a pulmonary infection. Post‐operative morbidity was observed in 19% (10/50) of the patients (8 urinary tract infection, 1 failure to perform SIC, 1intracranial hypertension). Of the patients in our study 74% had perfect or moderate continence with a working AUS after a 10‐year follow‐up

CONCLUSIONS

We present a specific study on adult patients with a neurological lesion leading to bladder dysfunction treated by a periprostatic AUS. This procedure was effective in restoring urinary incontinence in the vast majority of our patients with an acceptable morbidity.
Estimating the risk of fatal arrhythmia in patients in methadone maintenance treatment for heroin addiction
Authors: BUTLER BETHANY , RUBIN GEORGE , LAWRANCE ANNE , BATEY ROBERT , BELL JAMES
Published: July 2010

Aims. To estimate risk of death due to cardiac arrhythmia during methadone maintenance treatment. Background. There is evidence that methadone prolongs the QT interval, and has been associated with ventricular tachycardia in some individuals. Methods. We identified 51 deaths occurring during methadone treatment, occurring in a cohort with a defined exposure to methadone treatment. We obtained consent to access coronial records to investigate these in‐treatment deaths in detail, to identify potential cases of fatal arrhythmia—those cases in which sudden death occurred without clear evidence of an alternate cause of death. We obtained consent to access clinic records of dosing. Two physicians reviewed the coronial files and circumstances of death. The total number of person‐years exposure to methadone treatment was calculated. Results. There were extensive missing data in coronial and clinic files, making definitive assessment difficult in many cases. No definite case of death due to cardiac arrhythmia was identified. There were two cases in which arrhythmia seemed possible, and 10 cases in which arrhythmia could not be excluded. The study covered 14 500 patient‐years (pys) in methadone treatment, yielding an estimate from 0 to 0.069 deaths per 100 pys, with a best estimate of fatal arrhythmia occurring at a rate of 0.014 per 100 pys. Overdose is a more common cause of death. Both potential arrhythmias and overdoses were associated with use of other drugs in addition to methadone—usually, prescription drugs or methamphetamine. Conclusions. The risk of fatal cardiac arrhythmia in methadone maintenance patients appears to be low. The major risk factor for death was use of prescription drugs, and methamphetamine, in addition to methadone.[Butler B, Rubin G, Lawrance A, Batey R, Bell J. Estimating the risk of fatal arrhythmia in patients in methadone maintenance treatment for heroin addiction. Drug Alcohol Rev 2010]
Illicit drug use before and during pregnancy at a tertiary maternity hospital 2000–2006
Authors: HAYATBAKHSH MOHAMMAD R. , KINGSBURY ANN M. , FLENADY VICKI , GILSHENAN KRISTEN S. , HUTCHINSON DELYSE M. , NAJMAN JAKE M.
Published: July 2010

Introduction and Aims. To study the prevalence of use of illicit drugs by women of reproductive age before and during pregnancy and the changes in rates of illicit drug use in pregnancy over recent years. Design and Methods. All pregnant women attending the public antenatal clinic over a 7 year period (2000–2006) were routinely interviewed about their use of illicit drugs by a midwife at the antenatal booking visit. Measurements. Records for 25 049 women, who self‐reported previous and current use of cannabis, amphetamines, ecstasy and heroin, were included in the study. Results. Cannabis was the most common illicit drug used before and during pregnancy; 9.3% of women were engaged in regular use prior to pregnancy and 2.5% were users during pregnancy. A very low proportion of women reported use of amphetamines, ecstasy or heroin in pregnancy. There was an increase in ever regular use and any past use of cannabis, amphetamines and ecstasy over time. Conclusions. The prevalence of illicit drug use by young women prior to becoming pregnant is of concern. While pregnancy appears to be a strong motivator for women to cease substance use, there is a need to study whether women resume drug use after their baby is born.[Hayatbakhsh MR, Kingsbury AM, Flenady V, Gilshenan KS, Hutchinson DM, Najman JM. Illicit drug use before and during pregnancy at a tertiary maternity hospital 2000–2006. Drug Alcohol Rev 2010]
COMPENSATORY RESTORATION IN A RANDOM UTILITY MODEL OF RECREATION DEMAND
Authors: PARSONS GEORGE R. , KANG AMI K.
Published: July 2010

Natural Resource Damage Assessment cases often call for compensation in non‐monetary or restoration equivalent terms. In this article, we present an approach that uses a conventional economic model, a travel cost random utility model of site choice, to determine compensatory restoration equivalents for hypothetical beach closures on the Gulf Coast of Texas. Our focus is on closures of beaches on the Padre Island National Seashore and compensation for day‐trip users. We identify restoration projects that compensate for beach closures and that have good alignment in terms of compensating those who actually suffer from the closures. (JEL Q26)
The contribution of cephalopods to global marine fisheries: can we have our squid and eat them too?
Authors: Hunsicker Mary E , Essington Timothy E , Watson Reg , Sumaila Ussif R
Published: July 2010

Cephalopods are a key component of marine food webs, providing sustenance for myriad marine species. Cephalopods are also of increasing economic importance as evidenced by the rapid rise in their global landings over recent decades. If fisheries continue on this trajectory, conflicts may transpire among cephalopod and finfish fisheries, particularly in ecosystems where cephalopods are highly valuable both directly as a landed commodity and indirectly as prey for other harvested species. We provide the first measure of the ecosystem services that cephalopods contribute to fisheries in 28 marine ecosystems, both as a commodity and an ecological support service. We also evaluate how current demands on cephalopods compare to mid‐20th century conditions. We find that cephalopod contributions to fisheries vary widely, but are substantial in many ecosystems. Commodity and supportive services provided by cephalopods contributed as much as 55% of fishery landings (tonnes) and 70% of landed values ($USD). The contribution of cephalopods as a commodity was generally greatest in the coastal ecosystems, whereas their contribution as a supportive service was highest in open ocean systems. Further, the commodity and supportive services provided by cephalopods to fisheries landings increased in most of the coastal ecosystems between the mid‐20th century (years 1960–70) and contemporary periods (years 1990–2004), indicating the rising demand for cephalopods. Current demands have no historical precedent and ecosystems in which cephalopods are highly exploited as a targeted resource and as an ecological support service should be further evaluated to prevent the unsustainable development of marine fisheries within them.
How people with psychosis positively contribute to their family: a grounded theory analysis
Authors: Coldwell Joanne , Meddings Sara , Camic Paul M.
Published: July 2010

The literature on psychosis and schizophrenia has tended to take a burden perspective, positioning the person with the diagnosis as being cared for, rather than being able to contribute to their family. A few studies have suggested that people with this diagnosis do contribute to their families. None have explored how this process takes place. This research aims to explore how people with psychosis contribute to their family and what factors help and hinder this. Six individuals with a diagnosis of schizophrenia and six relatives were interviewed and data was analysed using grounded theory. The emergent theory suggests that people with psychosis do contribute positively to their family. The process is shaped by individual, familial and societal factors and relies on the availability of an opportunity to contribute. The psychological rewards of contributing for both family and individuals suggest this is a process worth facilitating and using therapeutically in clinical work.