bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fire, climate and vegetation linkages in the Bolivian Chiquitano seasonally dry tropical forest
Authors: Power M. J. , Whitney B. S. , Mayle F. E. , Neves D. M. , de Boer E. J. , Maclean K. S.
Published: May 2016

South American seasonally dry tropical forests (SDTFs) are critically endangered, with only a small proportion of their original distribution remaining. This paper presents a 12 000 year reconstruction of climate change, fire and vegetation dynamics in the Bolivian Chiquitano SDTF, based upon pollen and charcoal analysis, to examine the resilience of this ecosystem to drought and fire. Our analysis demonstrates a complex relationship between climate, fire and floristic composition over multi-millennial time scales, and reveals that moisture variability is the dominant control upon community turnover in this ecosystem. Maximum drought during the Early Holocene, consistent with regional drought reconstructions, correlates with a period of significant fire activity between 8000 and 7000 cal yr BP which resulted in a decrease in SDTF diversity. As fire activity declined but severe regional droughts persisted through the Middle Holocene, SDTFs, including
Anadenanthera
and
Astronium
, became firmly established in the Bolivian lowlands. The trend of decreasing fire activity during the last two millennia promotes the idea among forest ecologists that SDTFs are threatened by fire. Our analysis shows that the Chiquitano seasonally dry biome has been more resilient to Holocene changes in climate and fire regime than previously assumed, but raises questions over whether this resilience will continue in the future under increased temperatures and drought coupled with a higher frequency anthropogenic fire regime.

This article is part of the themed issue ‘The interaction of fire and mankind’.
The pyrohealth transition: how combustion emissions have shaped health through human history
Authors: Johnston Fay H. , Melody Shannon , Bowman David M. J. S.
Published: May 2016

Air pollution from landscape fires, domestic fires and fossil fuel combustion is recognized as the single most important global environmental risk factor for human mortality and is associated with a global burden of disease almost as large as that of tobacco smoking. The shift from a reliance on biomass to fossil fuels for powering economies, broadly described as the pyric transition, frames key patterns in human fire usage and landscape fire activity. These have produced distinct patters of human exposure to air pollution associated with the Agricultural and Industrial Revolutions and post-industrial the Earth global system-wide changes increasingly known as the Anthropocene. Changes in patterns of human fertility, mortality and morbidity associated with economic development have been previously described in terms of demographic, epidemiological and nutrition transitions, yet these frameworks have not explicitly considered the direct consequences of combustion emissions for human health. To address this gap, we propose a pyrohealth transition and use data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) collaboration to compare direct mortality impacts of emissions from landscape fires, domestic fires, fossil fuel combustion and the global epidemic of tobacco smoking. Improving human health and reducing the environmental impacts on the Earth system will require a considerable reduction in biomass and fossil fuel combustion.

This article is part of the themed issue ‘The interaction of fire and mankind’.
Global trends in wildfire and its impacts: perceptions versus realities in a changing world
Authors: Doerr Stefan H. , Santín Cristina
Published: May 2016

Wildfire has been an important process affecting the Earth's surface and atmosphere for over 350 million years and human societies have coexisted with fire since their emergence. Yet many consider wildfire as an accelerating problem, with widely held perceptions both in the media and scientific papers of increasing fire occurrence, severity and resulting losses. However, important exceptions aside, the quantitative evidence available does not support these perceived overall trends. Instead, global area burned appears to have overall declined over past decades, and there is increasing evidence that there is less fire in the global landscape today than centuries ago. Regarding fire severity, limited data are available. For the western USA, they indicate little change overall, and also that area burned at high severity has overall declined compared to pre-European settlement. Direct fatalities from fire and economic losses also show no clear trends over the past three decades. Trends in indirect impacts, such as health problems from smoke or disruption to social functioning, remain insufficiently quantified to be examined. Global predictions for increased fire under a warming climate highlight the already urgent need for a more sustainable coexistence with fire. The data evaluation presented here aims to contribute to this by reducing misconceptions and facilitating a more informed understanding of the realities of global fire.

This article is part of themed issue ‘The interaction of fire and mankind’.
Living on a flammable planet: interdisciplinary, cross-scalar and varied cultural lessons, prospects and challenges
Authors: Roos Christopher I. , Scott Andrew C. , Belcher Claire M. , Chaloner William G. , Aylen Jonathan , Bird Rebecca Bliege , Coughlan Michael R. , Johnson Bart R. , Johnston Fay H. , McMorrow Julia , Steelman Toddi ,   the Fire and Mankind Discussion Group
Published: May 2016

Living with fire is a challenge for human communities because they are influenced by socio-economic, political, ecological and climatic processes at various spatial and temporal scales. Over the course of 2 days, the authors discussed how communities could live with fire challenges at local, national and transnational scales. Exploiting our diverse, international and interdisciplinary expertise, we outline generalizable properties of fire-adaptive communities in varied settings where cultural knowledge of fire is rich and diverse. At the national scale, we discussed policy and management challenges for countries that have diminishing fire knowledge, but for whom global climate change will bring new fire problems. Finally, we assessed major fire challenges that transcend national political boundaries, including the health burden of smoke plumes and the climate consequences of wildfires. It is clear that to best address the broad range of fire problems, a holistic wildfire scholarship must develop common agreement in working terms and build across disciplines. We must also communicate our understanding of fire and its importance to the media, politicians and the general public.

This article is part of the themed issue ‘The interaction of fire and mankind’.
DNA uptake sequences in Neisseria gonorrhoeae as intrinsic transcriptional terminators and markers of horizontal gene transfer
Authors: Spencer-Smith Russell , Roberts Sabrina , Gurung Neesha , Snyder Lori A. S.
Published: May 2016

DNA uptake sequences are widespread throughout the Neisseria gonorrhoeae genome. These short, conserved sequences facilitate the exchange of endogenous DNA between members of the genus Neisseria. Often the DNA uptake sequences are present as inverted repeats that are able to form hairpin structures. It has been suggested previously that DNA uptake sequence inverted repeats present 3′ of genes play a role in rho-independent termination and attenuation. However, there is conflicting experimental evidence to support this role. The aim of this study was to determine the role of DNA uptake sequences in transcriptional termination. Both bioinformatics predictions, conducted using TransTermHP, and experimental evidence, from RNA-seq data, were used to determine which inverted repeat DNA uptake sequences are transcriptional terminators and in which direction. Here we show that DNA uptake sequences in the inverted repeat configuration occur in N. gonorrhoeae both where the DNA uptake sequence precedes the inverted version of the sequence and also, albeit less frequently, in reverse order. Due to their symmetrical configuration, inverted repeat DNA uptake sequences can potentially act as bi-directional terminators, therefore affecting transcription on both DNA strands. This work also provides evidence that gaps in DNA uptake sequence density in the gonococcal genome coincide with areas of DNA that are foreign in origin, such as prophage. This study differentiates for the first time, to our knowledge, between DNA uptake sequences that form intrinsic transcriptional terminators and those that do not, providing characteristic features within the flanking inverted repeat that can be identified.
Motivations and attitudes to (not) take action for climate change adaptation in protected areas
Authors: Lupp Gerd , Heuchele Linda , Renner Christina , Syrbe Ralf-Uwe , Konold Werner , Siegrist Dominik
Published: May 2016

Purpose

Implementing climate change adaptation measures immediately is considered both to minimize considerably negative impacts on biodiversity as well as on outdoor recreation in protected area management. This study aims to give answers, why, however, climate change issues receive very limited implementation by practitioners in day-to-day-management.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a motivation model by Rheinberg (2006), a more differentiated understanding was gained why stakeholders took almost no action regarding climate change adaptation. A participatory spatial scenario method including a map exercise was used to motivate stakeholders to develop, discuss, exchange and negotiate strategies under different possible future developments and their implementation in protected area management.

Findings

According to the motivation model, taking action is dependent on a number of factors and will only happen when all correlations are positive. It can be shown that for adaptation to climate change, concerning almost all of the various factors, no stimuli existed or actors expected a positive outcome when taking action. More motivation was generated for halting the loss of biodiversity and visitor management. In the participatory spatial scenario planning work, stakeholders from different sectors and decision-makers found consensus to implement integrated strategies, considering adaptation to climate change, reduction of greenhouse gases, better protection of biodiversity and different future developments in outdoor recreation activities.

Originality/value

The paper demonstrates the importance of single motivation factors such as perceived competence, abilities to act and perceived positive outcomes including rewards for taking action. Using participatory spatial scenario planning methods can be powerful tools to stimulate joint action, though implementing organizations must be willing to make real use of the outcome of such work.
Methodology for examining the challenges in mainstreaming climate change adaptation
Authors: Cuevas Sining C. , Peterson Ann , Morrison Tiffany , Robinson Catherine
Published: May 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to contribute to adaptation research by devising a systematic method for examining the challenges in mainstreaming climate change adaptation (CCA) into local land use planning. It argues that mainstreaming operationalization necessitates a methodology that focuses on the challenges in applying the approach and an analytical framework that can examine the mainstreaming process from an institutional perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper applied triangulation by data method (i.e. document review, interview, survey and key informant consultations) and incorporated the scorecard approach in developing the four-stage mixed methodology. It used a modified Institutional Analysis and Development framework as primary analytical guide and applied the case study methodology for structure and focus in relation to data collection activities.

Findings

This paper devised the four-stage mixed methodology and successfully applied it in examining the challenges in mainstreaming CCA into local land use planning in Albay, Philippines. Using the methodology, this paper developed 20 quantitative “mainstreaming indicators” and generated qualitative analyses to assess the state of play of the challenges in local mainstreaming of CCA. Results suggest that mainstreaming challenges exist within a certain spectrum, with one end composed of barriers to, and the other, opportunities for CCA. Furthermore, the challenges occur at varying degrees of severity depending on the conditions that surround them.

Research limitations/implications

This paper is limited to illustrating the process involved in developing the four-stage mixed methodology and presents only a brief discussion of the quantitative and qualitative results.

Practical implications

Although the methodology is at its initial stages of development, it generated results that can help analysts, planners and decision-makers: determine the nature of the challenges in mainstreaming CCA, thereby understand the mainstreaming process; prioritize the mainstreaming challenges to address; and design strategies that will maximize the use of limited resources (i.e. utilizing the opportunities to overcome the existing barriers), among others.

Originality/value

The four-stage mixed methodology was developed to aid analysts, planners and decision-makers determine the state-of-play of the challenges in mainstreaming CCA and make informed decisions in overcoming these challenges. Thus, the mixed method can be a useful tool in advancing the operationalization of the mainstreaming approach.
Trials and tribulations of conducting bio-behavioral surveys in prisons: implementation science and lessons from Ukraine
Authors: Azbel Lyuba , Grishaev Yevgeny , Wickersham Jeffrey A , Chernova Olena , Dvoryak Sergey , Polonsky Maxim , Altice Frederick L
Published: May 2016

Purpose

– Ukraine is home to Europe’s worst HIV epidemic, overwhelmingly fueled by people who inject drugs who face harsh prison sentences. In Ukraine, HIV and other infectious diseases are concentrated in prisons, yet the magnitude of this problem had not been quantified. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the systematic health survey of prisoners in the former Soviet Union (FSU).

Design/methodology/approach

– Qualitative interviews were carried out with research and prison administrative staff to assess the barriers and facilitators to conducting a bio-behavioral survey in Ukrainian prisons.

Findings

– Crucial barriers at the institutional, staff, and participant level require addressing by: first, ensuring Prison Department involvement at every stage; second, tackling pre-conceived attitudes about drug addiction and treatment among staff; and third, guaranteeing confidentiality for participants.

Originality/value

– The burden of many diseases is higher than expected and much higher than in the community. Notwithstanding the challenges, scientifically rigorous bio-behavioral surveys are attainable in criminal justice systems in the FSU with collaboration and careful consideration of this specific context.
Varicella zostervirus transmission in youth during incarceration
Authors: Moreau Danusia , Besney Jonathan , Jacobs Angela , Woods Dan , Joffe Mark , Ahmed Rabia
Published: May 2016

Purpose

– Facility-basedVaricella zostervirus (VZV) transmission is reported in a Canadian youth offender correctional centre (YOCC). Transmission occurred from an immunocompetent youth offender (YO) with localizedHerpes zosterto another immunocompetent single dose vaccinated YO, resulting inVaricella zoster(VZ) breakthrough disease. The purpose of this paper is to identify infection prevention and control (IPAC) measures utilized in this setting.

Design/methodology/approach

– A retrospective chart and immunization record review was conducted for two VZV cases and 27 exposed YO contacts in order to obtain demographic, clinical and immunization data. Descriptive data analysis was performed.

Findings

– All VZV cases and exposed contacts were male with an average age of 14.2 and 15.6 years for cases and contacts, respectively. Both cases shared the same living unit in the YOCC. There were 28 identified YO contacts, of whom 70 percent were single dose vaccinated with univalent vaccine, followed by 22 percent with a previous history ofVaricelladisease. All cases and contacts were born in Canada. No foreign-born populations were involved with this event. Infection control measures included additional precaution management, enhanced surveillance and environmental cleaning. As such, no hospitalizations or post-exposure immunizations were required.

Originality/value

– This report highlights the role that VZ breakthrough disease could play in fueling an outbreak in a high-risk environment without rapid recognition and implementation of preventative measures. It also underscores the importance of IPAC presence and public health immunization programs within correctional centers to avoid infectious disease threats.
Households in international marketing research
Authors: Penz Elfriede , Kirchler Erich
Published: May 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to respond to the call of alternative methodologies for studying household dynamics and aims to contribute to method development in international marketing research.

Design/methodology/approach

– Based on the Viennese Diary Study, a methodology was developed to study Vietnamese middle-class partners’ decision making. This allows for dyadic analyses and keeping track of the decision and mutual influence history in an emerging market.

Findings

– The methodology proved suitable to be used in a transitional economy, which is characterized by specific cultural aspects, such as the embeddedness of decisions in close relationships and traditional role specialization.

Research limitations/implications

– While the diary method is time and resource-costly with rather small sample size, it allows for detailed insight into everyday decision making. Further research might want to extend participation in the method to the extended family, which is of high importance in collectivistic cultures.

Originality/value

– Since partners in a household independently reported their perceptions and behaviours during decision processes each day, the methodology allows for dyadic analyses and keeping track of everyday decision making. In addition, the role in decision making of each spouse can be analysed.
Management of pension discount rate and financial health
Authors: Diane Parker Paula , Swanson Nancy J. , Dugan Michael T.
Published: May 2016

Purpose

This study aims to examine the unexpected portion of the pension discount rate to determine if the pension discount rate is being used to manage earnings for both financially healthy and financially unhealthy firms as categorized based upon their Altman z-score for bankruptcy.

Design/methodology/approach

Regression analysis is conducted with the unexpected portion of the pension discount rate as the dependent variable and various metrics indicating potential firm strengths and weaknesses as the independent variables.

Findings

This study finds evidence that suggests managers for both groups of firms are using their choice of discount rate to manage bottom-line earnings. These findings highlight the patterns of various firm choice differences found between the two groups and the magnitude of the differences between the groups.

Originality/value

Three streams of literature are considered in this research: earnings management, defined pension plans and z-score bankruptcy. This study extends prior research by examining the unexpected portion of the pension discount rate based on the z-score determination of whether a firm is considered financially healthy or financially unhealthy. Our findings highlight the impact of various firm choice differences found between the two groups of firms.
Automatic generation of a section erection planning for European shipyards building complex ships
Authors: Rose Christopher , Coenen Jenny
Published: May 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to present a method for generating a set of feasible, optimized production schedules for the erection process of compact shipyards building complex ship types.

Design/methodology/approach

– A bi-objective mathematical model is developed based on the process constraints. A Pareto front of possible erection schedules is created using a the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II with a custom heuristic fitness function and constraint violation.

Findings

– It was possible to consistently generate a wide variety of production schedules with superior performance to those manually created by shipyard planner in negligible computational time.

Practical implications

– The set of optimized production schedules generated by the developed methodology can be used as a starting point by existing shipyard planners when drafting the initial erection planning for a new project. This allows the planners to consider wider variety of options in less time.

Originality/value

– No other published approach for the automatic generation of optimized production schedules of the erection process is specifically tailored to the construction of complex ships.
Setting a fox to guard the henhouse? Determinants in elections for presidents of supreme audit institutions
Authors: Seyfried Markus
Published: May 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide evidence regarding the selection procedures for and characteristics of senior officials in supreme audit institutions (SIAs).

Design/methodology/approach

This study follows a quantitative approach using original data collected for presidential elections of SIAs in the 16 federal states in Germany. A fractional logit model is calculated to test different theoretical assumptions in relation to structural, political and individual factors.

Findings

The descriptive results confirm the findings of prior research that presidential candidates are elected with very high approval rates. The main determinants are the vote share of the ruling coalition and the executive experience of the presidential candidate.

Research limitations/implications

This study focuses on 16 federal states in Germany, but an international comparative perspective covering subnational levels would further augment analysis through the variance of selection procedures and electoral outcomes.

Social implications

Independence of auditors is a fundamental issue for the control of the executive, but it seems that there are inevitable trade-offs therein, such as between knowledge of the auditing objects or the politicization of the election process and the independence of the auditor.

Originality/value

This study provides novel empirical insights into the election and selection procedures for senior SIA officials at the subnational level, and shows that the executive exerts strong, but functionally reasonable, influence on candidate selection.
SOX 404(b) exemption effects on auditor changes
Authors: Hoffman Benjamin W. , Nagy Albert L.
Published: May 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate whether the Sarbanes-Oxley Act: Section 404(b) exemption caused an increase in auditor changes due to changes in expectations for both auditors and their clients.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper predicts that this exemption caused a significant amount of auditor changes post-exemption, due to a change in expected future economic rents (audit scope demands) for auditors (clients). Logistic regression analysis is used to examine whether auditor changes increased for non-accelerated filers (public companies with less than $75 million in public float), who were affected by this exemption, compared to auditor changes for accelerated filers (public companies with greater than $75 million in public float), who were not affected by this exemption.

Findings

The results show a significant positive association between the exemption and auditor dismissals for non-accelerated filers compared to that of accelerated filers. This finding is robust when sensitivity tests are used.

Practical implications

Prior literature finds that an increase in auditor changes can have various positive and negative effects on the affected companies. Thus, investors will be interested in the results of this paper when making their investment decisions with regard to non-accelerated filers.

Social implications

The results of this paper will aid policymakers as they consider the pros and cons of this exemption, as it pertains to the affected companies.

Originality/value

This paper is the first to study the effects of this exemption on auditor turnover for the affected companies.
Auditor choice in Italian non-listed firms
Authors: Matonti Gaetano , Tucker Jon , Tommasetti Aurelio
Published: May 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate auditor choice in those Italian non-listed firms adopting the “traditional” model of corporate governance. In Italy, non-listed firms can choose between two types of auditor: the Board of Statutory Auditors (BSA), that is the statutory auditors, or an “external” auditor. At the same time, a BSA conducts the administrative auditing for all companies with equity exceeding €120,000.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper estimates a logistic regression model of firm auditor choice between an external auditor and the BSA, which incorporates variables proxying for both agency conflict and organizational complexity effects.

Findings

The results show that of the potential agency factors, only board independence drives auditor choice, whereas organizational complexity and risk factors including firm size, investment in inventories, subsidiary status and complexity drive auditor choice. These results may be explained in the administrative audit role of the BSA, which monitors both day-by-day firm operations and the financial statements preparation “project”. Stakeholders as a result are reassured that, in general, their interests are protected. Finally, it was found that legal form and voluntary International Financial Reporting Standards compliance exert an impact on auditor choice.

Originality/value

The paper provides support for an internal yet independent auditing body such as the Italian BSA as a wider model for corporate governance in European non-listed firms (OECD, 2004 and 2015). The BSA as an administrative and financial auditing body made up solely of independent highly qualified professionals can work within the firm on an operational basis, and in so doing can increase stakeholder protection.
Linking the respiration of fungal sporocarps with their nitrogen concentration: variation among species, tissues and guilds
Authors: Trocha Lidia K. , Rudy Elżbieta , Chen Weile , Dabert Miroslawa , Eissenstat David M.
Published: May 2016

Tissue nitrogen (N) concentration has been correlated with respiration (RS) across plants of different life‐forms, functional and phylogenetic groups, plant organs and ectomycorrhizae of different fungal species. Nothing is known, however, if a similar relationship exists in other organisms like fungi.

Here, we explored the N‐RS relationship across sporocarps of 93 fungal species that varied in their guilds (mutualistic, saprotrophic and parasitic) as well as ‘tissue’ types (caps and stipes). We hypothesized that RS, N and protein concentrations were higher for saprotrophic fungi than for either mutualistic or parasitic fungi and were higher for caps than for stipes. We also hypothesized that respiration of fungal guild could be predicted by the N concentration. Lastly, we predicted N and RS were phylogenetically conserved and that by subtracting metabolically inactive N in chitin, we could improve the N‐RS relationship.

Sporocarp N concentration only explained 26% of the variation in RS across species. We found a significant difference in the N‐RS relationship among the three fungal guilds, but no difference between the two tissue types.

Saprotrophic species had higher N concentration and respiration than mutualistic and parasitic fungal species. Sporocarp components differed with caps showing both higher respiration and higher N and protein concentrations than stipes. Overall, our results show that fungal sporocarp nitrogen concentration is phylogenetically conserved among fungal families and may prove to be a strong predictor of fungal guild.

The positive N‐RS relationships existed for all fungal species (similar to plants), within fungal guilds (similar to plant functional groups), and fungal ‘tissue’ types (like plants’ organs). The clear linkage of fungal sporocarp respiration to total N concentration could help improve C and N cycling models in forest ecosystems by including estimates of fungal respiration based on fungal N concentration.

A lay summary is available for this article.
Validation of the boundary conditions to model the seismic response of fractures
Authors: Corredor Robiel Martinez , Santos Juan E. , Gauzellino Patricia M. , Carcione José M.
Published: May 2016

Fractures in fluid‐saturated poroelastic media can be modeled as extremely thin, highly permeable, and compliant layers or by means of suitable boundary conditions that approximate the behavior of such thin layers. Since fracture apertures can be very small, the numerical simulations would require the use of extremely fine computational meshes and the use of boundary conditions would be required.

In this work, we study the validity of using boundary conditions to describe the seismic response of fractures. For this purpose, we compare the corresponding scattering coefficients to those obtained from a thin‐layer representation. The boundary conditions are defined in terms of fracture apertures that, in the most general case, impose discontinuity of displacements, fluid pressures, and stresses across a fracture. Furthermore, discontinuities of either fluid pressures, stresses, or both can be removed, or displacement jumps proportional to the stresses and/or pressures can be expressed via shear and normal dry compliances in order to simplify.

In the examples, we vary the permeability, thickness, and porosity of the fracture and the type of fluid saturating the background medium and fractures. We observe good agreement of the scattering coefficients in the seismic range obtained with the two different approaches.
Evidence for enemy release and increased seed production and size for two invasive Australian acacias
Authors: Correia Marta , Montesinos Daniel , French Kristine , Rodríguez‐Echeverría Susana
Published: May 2016

Invasive plants are hypothesized to have higher fitness in introduced areas due to their release from pathogens and herbivores and the relocation of resources to reproduction. However, few studies have tested this hypothesis in native and introduced regions. A biogeographical approach is fundamental to understanding the mechanisms involved in plant invasions and to detect rapid evolutionary changes in the introduced area.

Reproduction was assessed in native and introduced ranges of two invasive Australian woody legumes, Acacia dealbata and A. longifolia. Seed production, pre‐dispersal seed predation, seed and elaiosome size and seedling size were assessed in 7–10 populations from both ranges, taking into account the effect of differences in climate.

There was a significantly higher percentage of fully developed seeds per pod, a lower proportion of aborted seeds and the absence of pre‐dispersal predation in the introduced range for both Acacia species. Acacia longifolia produced more seeds per pod in the invaded range, whereas A. dealbata produced more seeds per tree in the invaded range. Seeds were bigger in the invaded range for both species, and elaiosome: seed ratio was smaller for A. longifolia in the invaded range. Seedlings were also larger in the invaded range, suggesting that the increase in seed size results into greater offspring growth.

There were no differences in the climatic conditions of sites occupied by A. longifolia in both regions. Minimum temperature was higher in Portuguese A. dealbata populations, but this difference did not explain the increase in seed production and seed size in the introduced range. It did have, however, a positive effect on the number of pods per tree.

Synthesis. Acacia dealbata and A. longifolia escape pre‐dispersal predation in the introduced range and display a higher production of fully developed seeds per fruit and bigger seeds. These differences may explain the invasion of both species because they result in an increased seedling growth and the production of abundant soil seedbanks in the introduced area.
Assessing the special education professional development needs of northern Malawian schoolteachers
Authors: Hughes Elizabeth , Chitiyo Morgan , Itimu‐Phiri Ambumulire , Montgomery Kristen
Published: May 2016

This research examines special needs education professional development needs among both general and special education schoolteachers in northern Malawi. A semi‐structured questionnaire with open and close‐ended questions was used for the research. Quantitative and thematic analyses were conducted to determine the extent to which teachers believe that students with disabilities should be educated together with students without disabilities, the importance of professional development for teaching students with disabilities, prioritised professional development needs regarding special education knowledge, and self‐identified needs for successful special education classrooms. Results indicate that teachers are generally in favour of inclusive practices and identify a high need for special education professional development. Participants identified training and resources to teach students with visual impairments or auditory impairments as a high priority. Participants noted a need for improved infrastructure, more educational materials, and recognition by the government for work in special education.
Malignant hyperechoic breast lesions at ultrasound: A pictorial essay
Authors: Tiang Stephen , Metcalf Cecily , Dissanayake Deepthi , Wylie Elizabeth
Published: May 2016

Malignant breast lesions are typically hypoechoic at sonography. However, a small subgroup of hyperechoic malignant breast lesions is encountered in clinical practice. We present a pictorial essay of a number of different hyperechoic breast malignancies with mammographic, sonographic and histopathologic correlation. Suspicious sonographic features in a hyperechoic lesion include inhomogeneity in echogenic pattern, an irregular margin, posterior acoustic shadowing and internal vascularity. A hyperechoic lesion at ultrasound does not discount the need to undertake histological assessment of a mammographically suspicious lesion.
Priming mobilized peripheral blood mononuclear cells with the “activated platelet supernatant” enhances the efficacy of cell therapy for myocardial infarction of rats
Authors: Kang Jeehoon , Hur Jin , Kang Jin‐A , Lee Hak Seung , Jung Heewon , Choi Jae‐Il , Lee Hwan , Kim Yong Sook , Ahn Youngkeun , Kim Hyo‐Soo
Published: May 2016

Aim

Various methods are used to augment the efficacy of cell therapy in myocardial infarction (MI). In this study, we used the “activated platelet supernatant (APS)” to prime autologous “granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor‐mobilized peripheral blood mononuclear cells (mobPBMCs)” and investigated the efficacy of cell‐based therapy in MI.

Method

Rat mobPBMCs were isolated after daily subcutaneous injections of G‐CSF at 100 μg/kg for 3 days. APS was isolated separately after activating rat platelets with thrombin 0.5 U/mL for 2 hours. Priming was performed with APS for 6 hours. To check the paracrine effect of primed mobPBMCs, we used the 36‐hour culture supernatant of the primed cells. A rat MI model was used for an in vivo model.

Result

Cytokines such as IL‐1β, IL‐10, and TGFβ were 3.7±0.9‐fold, 3.4±1.2‐fold, and 1.2±0.1‐fold higher in APS, respectively, compared with naïve platelet supernatant. By APS priming, mobPBMCs showed M2 polarization and upregulation of angiogenic molecules (i.e., TEK, IL‐10, CXCL1, and CX3CR1). APS‐primed mobPBMCs had a 2.3‐fold increased adhesion ability, induced by upregulated integrins. Rat endothelial cells cultured in the 36‐hour culture supernatant of APS‐primed mobPBMCs showed a 1.6‐fold augmented proliferation and capillary network formation. In vivo transplantation of APS‐primed mobPBMCs into rat MI models showed a significant trend of reduction in fibrosis area (P=.001) and wall thinning (P=.030), which lead to improvement in cardiac function measured by echocardiography.

Conclusion

Our data reveal that APS priming can enhance the wound‐healing potential of mobPBMCs. APS priming may be a promising method for cell‐based therapy of MI.
The randomized clinical trial of coenzyme Q10 for the prevention of periprocedural myocardial injury following elective percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Aslanabadi Naser , Safaie Naser , Asgharzadeh Yousef , Houshmand Fatemeh , Ghaffari Samad , Garjani Alireza , Dousti Samaneh , Hamishehkar Hadi , Entezari‐Maleki Taher
Published: May 2016

Introduction

Periprocedural myocardial injury (PMI) following elective percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is an important therapeutic concern with remaining some mortality and morbidity. To the best of our knowledge, there is no published study that investigates the potential benefit of CoQ10 in preventing PMI following elective PCI.

Methods

In a randomized, clinical trial, 100 patients who scheduled for elective PCI were allocated in to the intervention (n=50) and control group (n=50). The intervention received a 300 mg loading dose CoQ10 12 hours before procedure. The level of CK‐MB and troponin‐I was measured before procedure, and 8 and 24 hours after. Furthermore, hs‐CRP was measured at baseline and 24 hours after. All patients were assessed for the incidence of major adverse cardiac effects (MACEs) after 1 month.

Results

The CK‐MB elevation (above the upper limit normal) was occurred in 22% (n=11) of CoQ10 and 20% (n=10) of control (P=.806). The elevation of troponin‐I was documented in 8% (n=4) of both groups. No significant change in the level of cardiac biomarkers was noted. However, the significant reduction in hs‐CRP level was occurred in CoQ10 group (P=.032).

Conclusion

The results showed that pretreatment with 300 mg CoQ10 12 hours before procedure could not reduce PMI following elective PCI, however, significantly decreased hs‐CRP.
The prognostic significance of survivin expression in gallbladder carcinoma
Authors: Salman Tarik , Argon Asuman , Kebat Tulu , Vardar Enver , Erkan Nazif , Alacacıoğlu Ahmet
Published: May 2016

Gallbladder cancers (GBC) are characterized by rapid progression, early metastasis, and poor prognosis; the molecular mechanisms of the various signaling pathways involved should be elucidated to develop effective therapies. Survivin, an apoptosis inhibitor protein expressed in the G2/M phase of the cell cycle, plays a role in cell division and affects both cell survival and proliferation. Survivin has been investigated in many types of cancer, and this study aims to examine the relationship of survivin expression in gallbladder cancer patients with clinicopathological features and prognosis. We evaluated demographic characteristics (age, gender), tumor characteristics (histopathological type, differentiation, perineural, and lymphovascular invasion; serosal invasion, surgical margin positivity and lymphocytic response), and Survivin expression immunohistochemically, and we analysed the relationship between these characteristics and prognosis in 47 gallbladder carcinoma cases from 2000 to 2011. Immunohistochemically, while survivin expression was observed in 36 cases, it was absent in 11 cases. Follow‐up data were obtained from 32 patients. Two (8.7%) of 23 cases with a Survivin‐positive tumor were alive at 74th and 35th months, whereas 5 (%55.6) of nine cases with Survivin‐negative tumor were alive at 50th, 89th, 124th, 126th, 131th months. Survivin expression was correlated with short survival (p = 0.043), and the univariate analysis showed that reduced overall survival was associated with age (p = 0.043), male gender (p = 0.038), infiltrative pattern (p = 0.019), lymphovascular invasion (p = 0.004), perineural invasion (p = 0.009), serosal invasion (p = 0.027), ulcer (p = 0.033), and surgical margin positivity (p = 0.022). Despite the low number of patients in our study, the analysis results suggest that survivin positivity might actually be a significant prognostic factor. This finding could be a reference point for targeted treatment studies. However, further studies involving broader series and longer follow‐up are still required for highly lethal gallbladder cancers.
Exacerbation risk in severe asthma is stratified by inflammatory phenotype using longitudinal measures of sputum eosinophils
Authors: Walsh C. J. , Zaihra T. , Benedetti A. , Fugère C. , Olivenstein R. , Lemière C. , Hamid Q. , Martin J. G.
Published: May 2016

Background

Airway inflammatory phenotyping is increasingly applied to subjects with asthma. However, its relationship to clinical outcomes in difficult asthma is incompletely elucidated.

Objective

The goal of our study was to determine the relationship between exacerbation rates and phenotypes of difficult asthma based on the longitudinal measures of sputum eosinophils and neutrophils.

Methods

Subjects in the longitudinal observational study from two tertiary care centres that completed 1 year of observation and provided at least three sputum samples were classified by inflammatory phenotypes using previously established thresholds. Kaplan–Meier curves and univariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazard models were used to determine the association between inflammatory phenotypes and exacerbation rate.

Results

During the study, 115 exacerbations occurred in 73 severe asthmatic subjects. Subjects with the persistently eosinophilic phenotype had a significantly shorter time to first exacerbation and greater risk of exacerbation over a 1‐year period than those with the non‐eosinophilic phenotype based on the univariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazard model (hazard ratio [HR], 3.24; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.35–7.72; adjusted HR, 3.90; 95% CI, 1.34–11.36). No significant differences in time to first exacerbation or exacerbation risk over a 1‐year period were observed among the neutrophilic phenotypes.

Conclusions

The persistent eosinophilic phenotype is associated with increased exacerbation risk compared with the non‐eosinophilic phenotype in severe asthma. No differences in time to first exacerbation or exacerbation risk over a 1‐year period were detected among neutrophilic phenotypes.
Increased thioredoxin levels are related to insulin resistance in familial combined hyperlipidaemia
Authors: Martinez‐Hervas Sergio , Artero Ana , Martinez‐Ibañez Juncal , Tormos Mari C. , Gonzalez‐Navarro Herminia , Priego Antonia , Martinez‐Valls Jose F. , Saez Guillermo T. , Real Jose T. , Carmena Rafael , Ascaso Juan F.
Published: May 2016

Background

Thioredoxins (TRX) are major cellular protein disulphide reductases that are critical for redox regulation. Oxidative stress and inflammation play promoting roles in the genesis and progression of atherosclerosis, but until now scarce data are available considering the influence of TRX activity in familial combined hyperlipidaemia (FCH). Since FCH is associated with high risk of cardiovascular disease, the objective of the present study was to assess oxidative stress status in FCH patients, and evaluate the influence of insulin resistance (IR).

Materials and methods

A cohort of 35 control subjects and 35 non‐related FCH patients were included, all of them nondiabetic, normotensive and nonsmokers. We measured lipid profile, glucose and insulin levels in plasma, and markers of oxidative stress and inflammation such as oxidized glutathione (GSSG), reduced glutathione (GSH) and TRX.

Results

Familial combined hyperlipidaemia subjects showed significantly higher levels of GSSG, GSSG/GSH ratio and TRX than controls. In addition, FCH individuals with IR showed the worst profile of oxidative stress status compared to controls and FCH patients without IR (P < 0·01). TRX levels correlated with higher insulin resistance.

Conclusion

Familial combined hyperlipidaemia patients showed increased TRX levels. TRX was positively correlated with IR. These data could partially explain the increased risk of cardiovascular events in primary dyslipidemic patients.
Protective mechanisms of resveratrol against methotrexate‐induced renal damage may involve BCRP/ABCG2
Authors: El‐Sheikh Azza A. K. , Morsy Mohamed A. , Al‐Taher Abdulla Y.
Published: May 2016

Resveratrol (RES) is a well‐known polyphenol antioxidant. We have previously shown that testicular protective effect of RES against the anticancer drug methotrexate (MTX)‐induced toxicity involves transporter‐mediated mechanisms. Here, we investigated the effect of RES on MTX‐induced nephrotoxicity. Rats were administered RES (10 mg/kg/day) for 8 days, with or without a single MTX dose (20 mg/kg i.p.) at day 4 of the experiment. MTX induced nephrotoxicity, as evidenced by a significant increase in serum blood urea nitrogen and creatinine compared to the control, as well as distortion of kidney microscopic structure. MTX also significantly increased renal nitric oxide level along with inducible nitric oxide synthase, fas ligand, and caspase 3 expressions. Administering RES prior to MTX significantly improved kidney function and microscopic picture and also significantly decreased nitrosative and apoptotic markers compared to MTX alone. RES, but not MTX, caused a significant increase in expression of breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP), an apical efflux renal transporter that participates in urinary elimination of both MTX and RES. Interestingly, concomitant MTX and RES caused further upregulation of renal BCRP compared to RES alone. Using Human BCRP ATPase assay, both RES and MTX exhibited a dose‐dependent increase in ATPase activity, with Km values of 0.52 ± 0.03 and 30.9 ± 4.2 μm, respectively. Furthermore, combined RES and MTX caused ATPase activity which was significantly less than maximum ATPase activity attained by the positive control, sulfasalazine (12.5 μm). In conclusion, RES exerted nephroprotection against MTX‐induced toxicity through antinitrosative and anti‐apoptotic effects, as well as via upregulation of renal BCRP.
Cholinergic enhancement increases regional cerebral blood flow to the posterior cingulate cortex in mild Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Iizuka Tomomichi , Kameyama Masashi
Published: May 2016

Aim

The brain region that shows reductions in regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) earliest is the posterior cingulate cortex (PCC), which is thought to have a relationship with cognitive function. We made a hypothesis that the PCC hypoperfusion is a result of cholinergic dysfunction and can be restored by cholinergic enhancement. This present longitudinal study aimed to detect the restoration of PCC rCBF in response to donepezil, an acetylcholine esterase inhibitor.

Methods

We evaluated rCBF changes in the PCC, precuneus and anterior cingulate cortex using perfusion single‐photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), statistical analysis and region of interest analysis, prospectively. We allocated 36 patients with mild AD to either the responder or non‐responder groups based on changes in Mini‐Mental State Examination scores. The patients were followed up for 18 months.

Results

The PCC rCBF significantly increased in responders after 6 months of donepezil therapy. Statistical maps at baseline showed a typical decreased pattern of mild AD and obvious rCBF restoration in the bilateral PCC at 6 months in responders. Changes in Mini‐Mental State Examination scores and the AD assessment scale cognitive scores significantly correlated with rCBF changes in the PCC of responders.

Conclusions

Cholinergic enhancement restored PCC rCBF under the three conditions of mild AD, responders and short follow‐up interval, and that increase correlated with improved cognitive function. These findings support our hypothesis that PCC rCBF reflects cholinergic function in AD patients. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2017; 17: 951–958.