bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ecological traits influence the phylogenetic structure of bird species co‐occurrences worldwide
Authors: Barnagaud Jean‐Yves , Daniel Kissling W. , Sandel Brody , Eiserhardt Wolf L. , Şekercioğlu Çağan H. , Enquist Brian J. , Tsirogiannis Constantinos , Svenning Jens‐Christian
Published: April 2014

The extent to which species’ ecological and phylogenetic relatedness shape their co‐occurrence patterns at large spatial scales remains poorly understood. By quantifying phylogenetic assemblage structure within geographic ranges of >8000 bird species, we show that global co‐occurrence patterns are linked – after accounting for regional effects – to key ecological traits reflecting diet, mobility, body size and climatic preference. We found that co‐occurrences of carnivorous, migratory and cold‐climate species are phylogenetically clustered, whereas nectarivores, herbivores, frugivores and invertebrate eaters tend to be more phylogenetically overdispersed. Preference for open or forested habitats appeared to be independent from the level of phylogenetic clustering. Our results advocate for an extension of the tropical niche conservatism hypothesis to incorporate ecological and life‐history traits beyond the climatic niche. They further offer a novel species‐oriented perspective on how biogeographic and evolutionary legacies interact with ecological traits to shape global patterns of species coexistence in birds.
Increased serum HMGB1 levels in patients with Henoch–Schönlein purpura
Authors: Chen Tao , Guo Zai‐pei , Wang Wen‐ju , Qin Sha , Cao Na , Li Meng‐meng
Published: April 2014

High‐mobility group box‐1 (HMGB1) has been implicated as a pro‐inflammatory cytokine in the pathogenesis of various inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. However, information about HMGB1 in Henoch–Schönlein purpura (HSP) is still unclear. Herein, we investigated the role of HMGB1 in patients with HSP and the pro‐inflammatory effects of HMGB1 on human dermal microvascular endothelial cell line (HMEC‐1). Serum HMGB1 levels in patients with HSP together with patients with allergic vasculitis (AV) and urticarial vasculitis (UV) were detected by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). HMEC‐1 cells were treated with HMGB1 at concentrations ranging from 4 ng/ml to 100 ng/ml. Serum HMGB1 levels were significantly increased in patients with HSP, AV and UV, when compared with those in control group. Moreover, abundant cytoplasmic expression of HMGB1 was observed in endothelial cells in lesional skin of HSP patients. Using membrane cytokine antibody array, we indicate that HMGB1 markedly induced TNF‐α and IL‐6 release in cultured supernatant. Furthermore, by real‐time quantitative PCR and ELISA, the effects of HMGB1 on these cytokines production in HMEC‐1 cells were established. Finally, Western blot data revealed that HMGB1 can induce phosphorylation of inhibitor of κB‐α (IκBα) and the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) p65 in HMEC‐1 cells. In conclusion, this study provides first observations on the association of HMGB1 with HSP. We suggest that HMGB1 may be an important mediator of endothelial inflammation through the induction of TNF‐α and IL‐6 production and may play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of HSP.
A model system to analyse the ability of human keratinocytes to form hair follicles
Authors: Thangapazham Rajesh L. , Klover Peter , Li Shaowei , Wang Ji‐an , Sperling Leonard , Darling Thomas N.
Published: April 2014

Earlier studies showed that dermal cells lose trichogenic capacity with passage, but studies on the effect of keratinocyte passage on human hair follicle neogenesis and graft quality have been hampered by the lack of a suitable model system. We recently documented human hair follicle neogenesis in grafted dermal‐epidermal composites, and in the present study, we determined the effects of keratinocyte passage on hair follicle neogenesis. Dermal equivalents were made with cultured human dermal papilla cells and were overlaid with either primary or passaged human keratinocytes to form dermal‐epidermal composites; these were then grafted onto immunodeficient mice. Superior hair follicle neogenesis was observed using early keratinocyte cultures. Characteristics such as formation of hair shafts and sebaceous glands, presence of hair follicles with features of anagen or telogen follicles, and reproducible hair and skin function parameters make this model a tool to study human hair follicle neogenesis and development.
Suppression of tumor necrosis factor receptor‐associated protein 1 expression induces inhibition of cell proliferation and tumor growth in human esophageal cancer cells
Authors: Tian Xin , Ma Ping , Sui Cheng‐Guang , Meng Fan‐Dong , Li Yan , Fu Li‐Ye , Jiang Tao , Wang Yang , Jiang You‐Hong
Published: April 2014

Tumor necrosis factor receptor‐associated protein 1 (TRAP1) is a molecular chaperone involved in multidrug resistance and antiapoptosis in some human tumors, but its regulatory mechanisms have not been revealed in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). In this study, 138 specimens of ESCC were analyzed. TRAP1 was overexpressed in ESCC, particularly in poorly differentiated tumors. To further explore the molecular regulatory mechanism, we constructed specific small interfering RNA‐expressing vectors targeting Trap1, and knocked down Trap1 expression in the esophageal cancer cell lines ECA109 and EC9706. Knockdown of Trap1 induced increases in reactive oxygen species and mitochondrial depolarization, which have been proposed as critical regulators of apoptosis. The cell cycle was arrested in G2/M phase, and in vitro inhibition of cell proliferation was confirmed with 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl‐tetrazolium bromide and bromodeoxyuridine assays. Furthermore, re‐expression of TRAP1 in Trap1 small interfering RNA‐transfected ESCC cells restored cell proliferation and cell apoptosis. Bioluminescence of subcutaneously xenografted ESCC tumor cells demonstrated significant inhibition of in vivo tumor growth by Trap1 knockdown. This study shows that TRAP1 was overexpressed in most patients with ESCC, and caused an increase in antiapoptosis potency. TRAP1 may be regarded as a target in ESCC biotherapy.
Converting Data to Knowledge: One District's Experience Using Large‐Scale Proficiency Assessment
Authors: Davin Kristin J. , Rempert Tania A. , Hammerand Amy A.
Published: April 2014

The present study reports data from a large‐scale foreign language proficiency assessment to explore trends across a large urban school district. These data were used in conjunction with data from teacher and student questionnaires to make recommendations for foreign language programs across the district. This evaluation process resulted in recommendations related to a need for consistency in curriculum and assessment, program articulation, and responsive placement strategies, as well as the need for greater emphasis in interpretive and interpersonal communication.
Digital News Stories: Building Language Learners' Content Knowledge and Speaking Skills
Authors: Lee Lina
Published: April 2014

The study explored how the use of digital news stories promoted the development of content knowledge and oral language skills. The study involved 15 advanced Spanish students who used VoiceThread, an interactive multimedia tool, to create and exchange digital news regarding current events over the course of one semester. Both quantitative and qualitative data collected from post‐surveys, transcribed digital recordings, blog reflections, and final interviews were analyzed. Data showed that digital news empowered students to use their own voices for self‐expression and self‐reflection and that social interaction helped establish a sense of community in which students supported each other by offering new ideas and feedback on each other's writing. In addition, students gained multi‐literacy skills and further improved their speaking fluency. The findings also suggest that well‐designed tasks are vital and that the instructor's guidance is needed to facilitate critical reflection.
Explaining participation rates in recreational fishing across industrialised countries
Authors: Arlinghaus R. , Tillner R. , Bork M.
Published: April 2014

On average, 10.52% of the total population was found to fish for recreation across the industrialised world (N = 27 countries), amounting to an estimated 118 million (95% confidence interval 81–154 million) people in North America, Europe and Oceania. Participation rates declined with population density and gross domestic product, indicating a negative effect of urbanisation and post‐modernisation on fishing interest. Participation rates also declined with increasing median age, average household size and unemployment rate, suggesting resource limitation to constrain participation in fishing. By contrast, two indicators of the cultural importance of fish (fish landings and per capita fish consumption) and an indicator of perceived need for leisure (weekly working hours) were positively correlated with fishing participation. Based on these findings, which explained 60% of the variance in fishing participation across the industrialised world, reduced fishing interest is to be expected with post‐industrialisation. Dedicated management and marketing intervention is needed to reverse the track of diminishing fishing interest in industrialised countries.
Is variable connectivity among populations of a continental gobiid fish driven by local adaptation or passive dispersal?
Authors: Huey Joel A. , Crook David A. , Macdonald Jed I. , Schmidt Daniel J. , Marshall Jonathan C. , Balcombe Stephen R. , Woods Ryan J. , Hughes Jane M.
Published: April 2014

Amphidromy, the dispersal of larvae to the estuarine or marine environment with juveniles recolonising fresh waters to complete development, is common on tropical islands. This has led to the suggestion that amphidromy is an adaptation to hydrologically unpredictable environments, allowing recolonisation after local extinction (dispersal‐limitation hypothesis). Alternatively, amphidromy may be more common in streams with stronger flow, as high tractive forces flush larvae into the estuarine/marine environment, forcing them to recolonise (passive dispersal hypothesis).

We tested these hypotheses in a continental gobiid fish, the Roman Nose Goby (Awaous acritosus) that inhabits hydrologically and physically diverse catchments on the east coast of Australia. We measured 87Sr/86Sr along transects of the otoliths of 92 adult fish from 12 catchments, identified migratory life histories from these data and correlated the proportion of migratory fish with key environmental variables. This information was augmented with data from mtDNA (n = 276) and six microsatellite loci (n = 429) from 19 catchments, to explore gene flow among catchments and to assess whether local adaptation was likely in the face of high or restricted gene flow.

Estimates of 87Sr/86Sr along transects revealed high variation in life history, with 63% of individuals showing no evidence of marine/estuarine residence. The slope of catchments was the only significant variable associated with the proportion of larvae retained in catchments, with steep catchments having a greater proportion of adults exhibiting a marine/estuarine phase during early life. Total panmixia was detected with mtDNA and six microsatellite loci, suggesting that gene flow is high for this species.

These results support the passive dispersal hypothesis. Steep slopes are likely to have higher tractive forces in their flow, leading to a greater proportion of larvae being flushed into the estuary or sea. In addition, high gene flow would inhibit local adaptation, making the dispersal‐limitation hypothesis unlikely.

This study provides a framework for understanding how local adaptation may be constrained by gene flow across the landscape so that the adaptive or passive mechanism underlying facultative amphidromy can be explored.
Gelatinous zooplankton biomass in the global oceans: geographic variation and environmental drivers
Authors: Lucas Cathy H. , Jones Daniel O. B. , Hollyhead Catherine J. , Condon Robert H. , Duarte Carlos M. , Graham William M. , Robinson Kelly L. , Pitt Kylie A. , Schildhauer Mark , Regetz Jim
Published: April 2014

Aim

Scientific debate regarding the future trends, and subsequent ecological, biogeochemical and societal impacts, of gelatinous zooplankton (GZ) in a changing ocean is hampered by lack of a global baseline and an understanding of the causes of biogeographic patterns. We address this by using a new global database of GZ records to test hypotheses relating to environmental drivers of biogeographic variation in the multidecadal baseline of epipelagic GZ biomass in the world's oceans.

Location

Global oceans.

Methods

Over 476,000 global GZ data and metadata items were assembled from a variety of published and unpublished sources. From this, a total of 91,765 quantitative abundance data items from 1934 to 2011 were converted to carbon biomass using published biometric equations and species‐specific average sizes. Total GZ, Cnidaria, Ctenophora and Chordata (Thaliacea) biomass was mapped into 5° grid cells and environmental drivers of geographic variation were tested using spatial linear models.

Results

We present JeDI (the Jellyfish Database Initiative), a publically accessible database available at http://jedi.nceas.ucsb.edu. We show that: (1) GZ are present throughout the world's oceans; (2) the global geometric mean and standard deviation of total gelatinous biomass is 0.53 ± 16.16 mg C m−3, corresponding to a global biomass of 38.3 Tg C in the mixed layer of the ocean; (3) biomass of all gelatinous phyla is greatest in the subtropical and boreal Northern Hemisphere; and (4) within the North Atlantic, dissolved oxygen, apparent oxygen utilization and sea surface temperature are the principal drivers of biomass distribution.

Main conclusions

JeDI is a unique global dataset of GZ taxa which will provide a benchmark against which future observations can be compared and shifting baselines assessed. The presence of GZ throughout the world's oceans and across the complete global spectrum of environmental variables indicates that evolution has delivered a range of species able to adapt to all available ecological niches.
Choosing and using methodological search filters: searchers' views
Authors: Beale Sophie , Duffy Steven , Glanville Julie , Lefebvre Carol , Wright Dianne , McCool Rachael , Varley Danielle , Boachie Charles , Fraser Cynthia , Harbour Jenny , Smith Lynne
Published: April 2014

Background

Search filters or hedges are search strategies developed to assist information specialists and librarians to retrieve different types of evidence from bibliographic databases. The objectives of this project were to learn about searchers' filter use, how searchers choose search filters and what information they would like to receive to inform their choices.

Methods

Interviews with information specialists working in, or for, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) were conducted. An online questionnaire survey was also conducted and advertised via a range of email lists.

Results

Sixteen interviews were undertaken and 90 completed questionnaires were received. The use of search filters tends to be linked to reducing a large amount of literature, introducing focus and assisting with searches that are based on a single study type. Respondents use numerous ways to identify search filters and can find choosing between different filters problematic because of knowledge gaps and lack of time.

Conclusions

Search filters are used mainly for reducing large result sets (introducing focus) and assisting with searches focused on a single study type. Features that would help with choosing filters include making information about filters less technical, offering ratings and providing more detail about filter validation strategies and filter provenance.
CURRENCY VERSUS BANKING IN THE FINANCIAL CRISIS OF 1931
Authors: Ritschl Albrecht , Sarferaz Samad
Published: April 2014

During the 1920s, Germany was the world's largest capital importer, financing reparations through U.S. credits. We examine financial channels in crisis transmission between these two countries around the German financial crisis of 1931. We specify a structural dynamic factor model to identify financial and monetary factors separately for each of the two economies. We find substantial crisis transmission from Germany to the United States via the financial channel, while monetary or financial crisis transmission from the United States to Germany was weak. We also find major real effects of the 1931 crisis on both economies, again transmitted via the financial channel.
BUYERS, SELLERS, AND MIDDLEMEN: VARIATIONS ON SEARCH‐THEORETIC THEMES
Authors: Wright Randall , Wong Yuet‐Yee
Published: April 2014

We study exchange that is bilateral but indirect—it involves chains of intermediaries, or middlemen—in markets with frictions. These frictions include search and bargaining problems. We show how, and how many, intermediaries might get involved in a chain, and how bargaining with one depends on upcoming negotiations with those downstream. The roles of buyers, sellers, money, and prices are discussed, allowing us to clarify some neglected connections between different branches of search theory. Pursuing one such connection, with monetary economics, we show how bubbles can emerge in intermediation, even with fully rational agents and perfect foresight.
R&D AND ECONOMIC GROWTH IN A CASH‐IN‐ADVANCE ECONOMY
Authors: Chu Angus C. , Cozzi Guido
Published: April 2014

R&D investment has well‐known liquidity problems, with potentially important consequences. In this study, we analyze the effects of monetary policy on economic growth and social welfare in a Schumpeterian growth model with cash‐in‐advance (CIA) constraints on R&D investment, consumption, and manufacturing. Our main results can be summarized as follows. Under the CIA constraints on R&D and consumption (the CIA constraint on manufacturing), an increase in the nominal interest rate decreases (increases) R&D and economic growth. We also analyze the optimality of Friedman rule and find that Friedman rule can be suboptimal due to a unique feature of the Schumpeterian model.
Prevalences of skin diseases among primary schoolchildren in Damietta, Egypt
Authors: El‐Khateeb Ekramy A. , Lotfi Ranya A. , Abdel‐Aziz Khaled M. , El‐Shiekh Suzan E.
Published: April 2014

Objectives

Information on prevalences of pediatric dermatoses in Egypt is scanty. This study aimed to supplement existing data.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted in Damietta, Egypt between October 2011 and March 2012. It involved 6162 pupils randomly selected from 30 primary schools. The sample was equally divided (3081 pupils/15 schools) between urban and rural areas. Each participant was interviewed for age, gender, residence and complaint. Hygiene status was evaluated and a clinical examination was carried out for skin diseases. Data were coded and analyzed.

Results

Although most children revealed more than one dermatosis, the majority (76.2%) had not complained of disease. The most common disease group included benign neoplasms (87.0%), followed by pigmentary disorders (68.3%), infections (50.9%), adnexal disorders (14.1%), hypersensitivity diseases (14.0%), genodermatoses (0.3%) and papulosquamous diseases (0.2%). The most common subgroup of diseases comprised parasitic infections (47.5%), among which pediculosis prevailed (47.5%), followed by dermatitis (10.0%) in which pityriasis alba dominated (6.0%), followed by hair disorders (9.3%), bacterial infections (5.9%), urticaria (4.4%), sebaceous gland disorders (2.7%), sweat gland disorders (2.3%), viral infections (1.6%) and fungal infections (0.7%). The most commonly found diseases included, in descending order, acquired melanocytic nevus, post‐inflammatory hyperpigmentation, pediculosis, leukoderma, café au lait spots, atrophic scar, cicatricial alopecia, hypertrophic scar, pityriasis alba, papular urticaria, xerosis and impetigo.

Conclusions

The high prevalence of skin diseases, especially of trauma‐related disorders and infections, may be mainly attributable to a lack of appropriate health awareness and care, which has created a tendency within the population to adapt without complaining or seeking medical help. Such circumstances, unfortunately, have resulted in a growing community of silent patients.
Impact of iron deficiency on hemoglobin A2% in obligate β‐thalassemia heterozygotes
Authors: Sharma P. , Das R. , Trehan A. , Bansal D. , Chhabra S. , Kaur J. , Marwaha R. K. , Varma N. , Garewal G.
Published: April 2014

Introduction

The potential impact of concomitant iron deficiency on hemoglobin A2 (HbA2)‐based identification of β‐thalassemia trait (βTT) is a worrisome issue for screening laboratories. This is especially true for resource‐constrained settings where iron deficiency is widespread and molecular confirmatory tests for borderline low HbA2 values may be unavailable.

Methods

Obligate βTT carrier individuals (n = 752) were identified during screening studies on the parents of thalassemia major patients. HbA2%, complete blood counts and serum iron, ferritin and transferrin saturation were studied. Iron‐deficient individuals (n = 135) with normal range HbA2% were taken as controls.

Results

Concomitant iron deficiency (defined as ferritin ≤15 ng/mL and/or transferrin saturation ≤15%) was present in 20.7% (156/752) βTT cases, that is, 33.3% females (122/366) and 8.8% males with βTT (34/386). Mean HbA2 in iron‐replete βTT was 5.4 ± 0.8 (range 3.1–7.9) and in iron‐deficient βTT was 5.4 ± 0.9 (range 3.3–7.6). HbA2 < 4.0% was found in 23/752 (3.1%) βTT: 13/595 iron‐replete (2.2%) and 10/157 (6.4%) iron‐deficient βTT individuals. However, five of the 10 iron‐deficient βTT cases carried the silent CAP+1 (A>C) β‐thalassemia allele accounting for the borderline HbA2%. On a separate analysis, all five severely anemic βTT (Hb < 80 g/L) and 16/17 βTT with severe hypoferritinemia (<5 ng/mL) had HbA2 > 4.5%. The single case with serum ferritin 4.8 ng/mL and HbA2 3.3% showed a CAP+1 (A>C) mutation.

Conclusions

Iron deficiency was prevalent among north Indian βTT individuals, especially women. After adjusting for other causes of low HbA2 in βTT, iron deficiency, even when very severe, was very unlikely to interfere significantly with HbA2‐based identification of βTT.
A nursing care classification system for assessing workload and determining optimal nurse staffing in a teaching hospital in China: A pre‐post intervention study
Authors: Yu Dongmei , Ma Yuqin , Sun Qingwen , Lu Gendi , Xu Ping
Published: April 2014

We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a nursing care classification system for re‐assessing nurse workload and determining staffing needs. Adequate bed–nurse ratios help manage hospital cost‐efficiency, quality of care and patient safety. A prospective pre‐post intervention study was conducted from January 2010 to December 2012 in 16 medical‐surgical units of a tertiary teaching hospital. Nursing tasks were classified into four grades of care reflecting actual workload. Units were re‐staffed accordingly and bed–nurse ratios compared with government‐authorized bed–nurse ratios. Patient satisfaction, hospital stays and mortality were evaluated pre‐ and poststaffing changes. Average bed–nurse ratio (1:0.41) exceeded the national standard (1:0.40) in 16 units, but was inadequate in five units. Re‐staffing increased average bed–nurse ratio from 1:0.41 to 1:0.48. Patients' satisfaction increased from 96.9% to 97.6%, and hospital stays decreased significantly. Nursing care classification effectively distributes nurse staffing to match patients' care levels, improving patient outcomes.
Relationship between menopausal symptoms and sexual dysfunction among married Turkish women in 40–65 age group
Authors: Senturk Erenel Ayten , Golbasi Zehra , Kavlak Tulay , Dilbaz Serdar
Published: April 2014

This was a cross‐sectional study to analyse the relationship between menopausal symptoms and sexual dysfunction among 229 married Turkish women in the 40–65 age group. The study was carried out at a menopause clinic of a state hospital between 1 October and 31 December 2010. Data were collected with Personal Characteristics Form, Menopause Rating Scale (MRS) and the Arizona Sexual Experience Scale (ASEX). The average age of the women was 52.33 (SD = 4.80) years. The average MRS total score was 20.13(SD = 9.20). The ASEX mean score was 19.97 (SD = 5.44). It was determined that there is a positive meaningful relationship between ASEX mean score, MRS total mean score and the sub‐score of women. From the results obtained from this study, it can be said that women have differing levels of menopausal symptoms, and as the severity of menopausal symptoms increases, there is an increase in sexual dysfunction.
Medicine's inconvenient truth: the placebo and nocebo effect
Authors: Arnold M. H. , Finniss D. G. , Kerridge I.
Published: April 2014

Placebo and nocebo effects are often regarded by clinicians as either a quaint reminiscence from the pre‐therapeutic era, or simply as a technique for establishing the efficacy of therapeutic interventions within the locus of evidence‐based practice. However, neither of these explanations sufficiently account for their complexity or their persistence and impact in clinical medicine. Placebo and nocebo effects are embedded in the very fabric of therapeutic relationships and are both a manifestation and outcome of the rituals that characterise clinical practice. They are also a stark reminder of the many personal and environmental factors, including the attitudes, beliefs and expectations of both doctor and patient, that shape the outcomes of health professional‐patient interactions.

We describe how recent biological and neuropsychiatric data have clarified the operation of placebo and nocebo effects in clinical practice – demonstrating the ability of the therapeutic context to modulate endogenous biological processes in a targeted manner. This, in turn, illustrates the potent philosophical and sociocultural aspects of medical praxis.
Cardiovascular disease in human immunodeficiency virus
Authors: Cheruvu S. , Holloway C. J.
Published: April 2014

With widespread access to high‐quality medical care as in Australia, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is now considered a chronic, treatable condition, with a good life expectancy. The use of combined highly active antiretroviral therapy has enabled effective suppression of the virus, but has also been associated with increased cardiac morbidity and mortality. Over representation of traditional cardiac risk factors, such as hyperlipidaemia and diabetes, as well as an increased incidence of ischaemic and non‐ischaemic heart disease is now considered a major concern of treatment with antiretroviral therapy. Therefore, a contemporary management strategy for patients with HIV must include active prevention and treatment of cardiovascular risk. This review will outline the complex interplay between HIV infection, antiretroviral drug regimens and accelerated cardiovascular disease, with a particular focus on screening, prevention and treatment options in a contemporary Australian HIV population.
Water Harvesting for Improved Water Productivity in Dry Environments of the Mediterranean Region Case study: Pistachio in Turkey
Authors: Yazar A. , Kuzucu M. , Çelik I. , Sezen S. M. , Jacobsen S.‐E.
Published: April 2014

Low rainfall, water scarcity and land degradation severely intimidate the production capacities of the rangelands in the arid environments. Water harvesting focuses on improving the productive use of rainwater on the local scale (field to subcatchment scale) before the runoff water leaves the geographical unit in question. The aim is to mitigate the effects of temporal water shortages to cover both domestic and agricultural needs. This paper provides a review on water harvesting techniques focusing on microcatchment methods, and information on performance of a small‐basin water harvesting system (negarim) under a typical arid environment in Turkey as a case study. In the negarim case study, we analysed rainfall, runoff, catchment area, soil water storage and crop evapotranspiration. The microcatchment area (36 m2) included five surface treatment methods (natural, plastic cover, stone cover, hay cover and compaction), which were studied in a pistachio plantation by monitoring soil water balance in the root zone. The overall efficiency of the water harvesting system was determined as the ratio of the amount of water stored and used by the crop to the amount of rainfall received in the catchment area. It was demonstrated that the overall efficiency of the system varied from 2.9 % to 79 % depending on the surface treatments and the root zone capacity. Plastic cover had the greatest efficiency. Gains in runoff improvement were lost when the soil moisture in the cultivated area was near field capacity. Surface treatments had a significant effect on plant height and stem diameter. Plant height with different treatments was 158 cm with plastic cover, 128 cm with surface compaction, 121 cm with hay cover, 117 cm with stone cover and 102 cm of control. Among the surface treatments, plastic cover was superior to the other treatments on plant growth, but the use of plastic may cause environmental problems.
Exploring the combined role of eustasy and oceanic island thermal subsidence in shaping biodiversity on the Galápagos
Authors: Ali Jason R. , Aitchison Jonathan C.
Published: April 2014

Aim

We constructed a series of high‐resolution palaeogeographical models for the Galápagos archipelago for the last 700 kyr, accommodating thermal subsidence of the islands, eustatic sea‐level change, and associated sea‐floor loading. We assessed the possible impacts of these changes for the terrestrial fauna.

Location

The Galápagos Islands.

Methods

Palaeogeographical modelling and evaluation of biogeographical distributions.

Results

Since 700 ka, sea levels broadly similar to those today isolated the various Galápagos islands for intervals of c. 90 kyr. Intervening 5–10 kyr periods of extreme lowstands in sea level (−140 to −210 m) dramatically changed the central and western archipelago, with several large islands, plus their satellites, coalescing. During the several connection episodes the land‐locked vertebrates had significant or complete access to all of the newly exposed terrain. Analysis of the biological data suggests that these physical processes left detectable imprints on the biogeography of groups including racer snakes, lava lizards, land iguanas and leaf‐toed geckos.

Main conclusions

In the recent geological past, a sizeable region within the Galápagos chain must have experienced rapid, significant changes in its geography as a result of major shifts in local relative sea level periodically connecting and then isolating islands. This might explain striking patterns in the distribution and composition of the archipelago's land fauna. These insights provide a platform for future studies predicting the ages of subpopulation separations, which should correspond to the sea‐level rises that followed each of the lows. The oscillating geography mechanism described herein may provide a new lens to view biological evolution on a number of other island chains, including the Maldives, the Canaries and Cape Verde.
The influence of the complex topography and dynamic history of the montane Neotropics on the evolutionary differentiation of a cloud forest bird (Premnoplex brunnescens, Furnariidae)
Authors: Valderrama Eugenio , Pérez‐Emán Jorge L. , Brumfield Robb T. , Cuervo Andrés M. , Cadena Carlos Daniel
Published: April 2014

Aim

To examine the effect of geographical barriers and habitat dynamics related to climatic oscillations on the phylogeography of a widespread passerine of Neotropical cloud forests, the spotted barbtail (Premnoplex brunnescens).

Location

Neotropical humid forests of montane areas in lower Central America and South America.

Methods

We sequenced two mitochondrial genes and one nuclear intron from specimens collected across the distribution of P. brunnescens. Phylogenetic relationships were inferred using Bayesian and maximum‐likelihood methods. Groups with maximum differentiation were estimated with spatial analysis of molecular variance (SAMOVA). We estimated timing of differentiation and relationships among groups with a species‐tree approach and historical demography with extended Bayesian skyline plots.

Results

Six highly differentiated clades of P. brunnescens are distributed in lower Central America, Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, northern Venezuelan mountains, the Northern Andes, central Peru, and southern Peru and Bolivia. Within the Northern Andes clade, six phylogroups were identified associated with different slopes and isolated cordilleras. Most clades occupy opposite sides of low‐lying valleys and ridgelines, but little differentiation was observed across several putative barriers. Population divergence occurred in the late Miocene and Pliocene, perhaps in association with Andean uplift. Historical fluctuations in population sizes suggest that populations tracked the spatial dynamics of montane forests associated with glacial cycles.

Main conclusions

Extensive genetic differentiation in mitochondrial and nuclear DNA exists among populations of P. brunnescens. Such marked divergence was probably promoted by the rugged topography and dynamic ecological history of the Neotropical mountains. Our study sheds light on mechanisms promoting population differentiation in the montane Neotropics.
Resin Bond to Indirect Composite and New Ceramic/Polymer Materials: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Spitznagel Frank A. , Horvath Sebastian D. , Guess Petra C. , Blatz Markus B.
Published: April 2014

Statement of the Problem

Resin bonding is essential for clinical longevity of indirect restorations. Especially in light of the increasing popularity of computer‐aided design/computer‐aided manufacturing‐fabricated indirect restorations, there is a need to assess optimal bonding protocols for new ceramic/polymer materials and indirect composites.

Purpose of the Study

The aim of this article was to review and assess the current scientific evidence on the resin bond to indirect composite and new ceramic/polymer materials.

Materials and Methods

An electronicPubMed database search was conducted from 1966 toSeptember 2013 for in vitro studies pertaining the resin bond to indirect composite and new ceramic/polymer materials.

Results

The search revealed 198 titles. Full‐text screening was carried out for 43 studies, yielding 18 relevant articles that complied with inclusion criteria. No relevant studies could be identified regarding new ceramic/polymer materials. Most common surface treatments are aluminum‐oxide air‐abrasion, silane treatment, and hydrofluoric acid‐etching for indirect composite restoration. Self‐adhesive cements achieve lower bond strengths in comparison with etch‐and‐rinse systems. Thermocycling has a greater impact on bonding behavior than water storage.

Conclusions

Air‐particle abrasion and additional silane treatment should be applied to enhance the resin bond to laboratory‐processed composites. However, there is an urgent need for in vitro studies that evaluate the bond strength to new ceramic/polymer materials.

Clinical Significance

This article reviews the available dental literature on resin bond of laboratory composites and gives scientifically based guidance for their successful placement. Furthermore, this review demonstrated that future research for new ceramic/polymer materials is required.
Esthetic Treatment of a Diffuse Amelogenesis Imperfecta Using Pressed Lithium Disilicate and Feldspathic Ceramic Restorations: 5‐Year Follow Up
Authors: Savi Andrea , Turillazzi Oliviero , Crescini Aldo , Manfredi Maddalena
Published: April 2014

Objective

The treatment of a diffuse and severe case of amelogenesis imperfecta represents a challenge for the dental team and in particular for the dentist who perform the prosthetic restorations.

Clinical Considerations

The enamel alterations, which are characteristic of the disease, determine different problems that need to be carefully planned and solved before the beginning of the treatment, with particular regard to the materials used to perform the restorations. In order to create the best conditions to perform the prosthetic restoration, the treatment plan should be multidisciplinary. In addition, the young age of the patients usually affected by the disease imposes a very conservative and cautious approach. The main goals of the therapy are represented by the need to protect the occlusal dental surfaces from the abrasion and provide a satisfactory esthetic result. In particular, dental abrasions if not treated may determine the loss of the vertical dimension as well as a diffuse and marked dentinal hypersensitivity.

Conclusions

A correct treatment plan and the use of the new adhesive ceramic materials made it possible to obtain good results both from a functional and esthetic point of view with a much more conservative approach compared with the traditional one.

Clinical Significance

This clinical report describes the prosthetic rehabilitation of an adult female patient with a diffuse amelogenesis imperfecta using feldspathic ceramics for the esthetic regions and monolithic lithium disilicate material for the posterior areas.
Regional flood frequency analysis forÇoruhBasin ofTurkey withL‐moments approach
Authors: Aydoğan D. , Kankal M. , Önsoy H.
Published: April 2014

In this paper, a regional flood frequency analysis ofÇoruh Basin was performed with theL‐moments method. Because the area ofÇoruh Basin is large (21 100 km2), and the climatic, hydrologic, and topographic characteristics vary throughout the basin, it was divided into four sub‐regions for examination. Discordancy measure tests were performed for the sites located in each sub‐region. TheHheterogeneity test was carried out by performing 500 simulations with theKappa probability distribution for the homogeneity of the region. With the help of a diagram of theL‐moment ratios and by administering theZgoodness‐of‐fit measure test, the appropriate distribution was determined for each sub‐region. The distributions were used to identify the quintiles according to various probabilities of non‐exceedance. The accuracies of the estimated measured for the regional growth curves and quantiles were calculated usingMonteCarlo simulation. Finally, the flow values determined from the quantiles estimated with theL‐moments method were compared with those estimated previously with an at‐site frequency analysis (Gumbel distribution) on the basin master plan for four large dams in theÇoruhBasin.
Multi‐Ethnic Minority Nurses’ Knowledge and Practice of Genetics and Genomics
Authors: Coleman Bernice , Calzone Kathleen A. , Jenkins Jean , Paniagua Carmen , Rivera Reynaldo , Hong Oi Saeng , Spruill Ida , Bonham Vence
Published: April 2014

Purpose

Exploratory studies establishing how well nurses have integrated genomics into practice have demonstrated there remains opportunity for education. However, little is known about educational gaps in multi‐ethnic minority nurse populations. The purpose of this study was to determine minority nurses’ beliefs, practices, and competency in integrating genetics‐genomics information into practice using an online survey tool.

Design

A cross‐sectional survey with registered nurses (RNs) from the participating National Coalition of Ethnic Minority Organizations (NCEMNA). Two phases were used: Phase one had a sample of 27 nurses who determined the feasibility of an online approach to survey completion and need for tool revision. Phase two was a main survey with 389 participants who completed the revised survey. The survey ascertained the genomic knowledge, beliefs, and practice of a sample of multi‐ethnic minority nurses who were members of associations comprising the NCEMNA.

Methods

The survey was administered online. Descriptive survey responses were analyzed using frequencies and percentages. Categorical responses in which comparisons were analyzed used chi square tests.

Findings

About 40% of the respondents held a master's degree (39%) and 42% worked in direct patient care. The majority of respondents (79%) reported that education in genomics was important. Ninety‐five percent agreed or strongly agreed that family health history could identify at‐risk families, 85% reported knowing how to complete a second‐ and third‐generation family history, and 63% felt family history was important to nursing. Conversely, 50% of the respondents felt that their understanding of the genetics of common disease was fair or poor, supported by 54% incorrectly reporting they thought heart disease and diabetes are caused by a single gene variant. Only 30% reported taking a genetics course since licensure, and 94% reported interest in learning more about genomics. Eighty‐four percent believed that their ethnic minority nurses’ organizations should have a visible role in genetics and genomics in their communities.

Conclusions

Most respondents felt genomics is important to integrate into practice but demonstrated knowledge deficits. There was strong interest in the need for continuing education and the role of the ethnic minority organizations in facilitating the continuing education efforts. This study provides evidence of the need for targeted genomic education to prepare ethnic minority nurses to better translate genetics and genomics into practice.

Clinical Relevance

Genomics is critical to the practice of all nurses, most especially family health history assessment and the genomics of common complex diseases. There is a great opportunity and interest to address the genetic‐genomic knowledge deficits in the nursing workforce as a strategy to impact patient outcomes.
Impact of a Smoking Cessation Educational Program on Nurses’ Interventions
Authors: Sarna Linda P. , Bialous Stella Aguinaga , Kraliková Eva , Kmetova Alexandra , Felbrová Vladislava , Kulovaná Stanislava , Malá Katerina , Roubicková Eva , Wells Marjorie J. , Brook Jenny K.
Published: April 2014

Purpose

To evaluate a brief educational program about smoking cessation on the frequency of nurses’ interventions with smokers, and impact of nurses’ smoking status on outcomes.

Design

Prospective, single group design with prestudy and 3 months post‐study data.

Methods

Nurses in the Czech Republic attended hospital‐based 1‐hr educational programs about helping smokers quit. They completed surveys about the frequency (i.e., always, usually, sometimes, rarely, never) of their smoking cessation interventions with patients using the five A's framework (i.e., ask, advise, assess, assist, arrange), and their attitudes prior to and 3 months after the course. Demographic data included smoking status.

Findings

Among the 98 nurses with prestudy and post‐study data, all were female, mean age was 43 years, 33% were current smokers, and 64% worked in a medical or surgical or oncology settings. At 3 months, compared to baseline, significantly (p < .05) more nurses assessed patients’ interest in quitting, assisted with quit attempts, and recommended the use of the quitline for cessation. At 3 months after the program, nurses who smoked were less likely to ask about smoking status (odds ratio [OR] = 4.24, 95% confidence interval [CI; 1.71, 10.53]), advise smokers to quit (OR = 3.03, 95% CI [1.24,7.45]), and refer patients to a quitline (OR = 2.92, 95% CI [0.99, 8.63]) compared to nonsmokers, despite no differences in delivery of interventions at baseline.

Conclusions

Three months after attendance at an educational program focused on the nurses’ role in supporting smoking cessation efforts, more nurses engaged in interventions to help smokers quit. However, the program was less effective for nurses who smoked.

Clinical Relevance

This program demonstrated promise in building capacity among Czech nurses to assist with smoking cessation, but nurses’ smoking poses a challenge.
Age‐related dermal collagen changes during development, maturation and ageing – a morphometric and comparative study
Authors: Marcos‐Garcés V. , Molina Aguilar P. , Bea Serrano C. , García Bustos V. , Benavent Seguí J. , Ferrández Izquierdo A. , Ruiz‐Saurí A.
Published: April 2014

The tissue organisation of dermal collagen is gaining importance as a contributing factor both in development and ageing, as well as in skin maturation processes. In this work we aim to study different representative parameters of this structural organisation in 45 human skin samples of assorted ages, by means of image analysis. The variation of these parameters on the basis of age was assessed using several regression models (linear, quadratic and cubic). The area occupied by collagen was significantly reduced as a function of age in the papillary dermis (R2 = 0.437, P < 0.0001), as well as the thickness of the collagen bundles (R2 = 0.461, P < 0.0001), following statistical models of cubic and quadratic regression, respectively. The width of the papillary dermis increased in a significant manner over a linear regression model (R2 = 0.26, P < 0.0001). In the reticular dermis, the cubic regression indicated a significant decline (R2 = 0.392, P = 0.002) of the area filled with collagen according to the age. Both collagen thickness and bundle orientation parameters fit a quadratic regression over the age in a significant way (R2 = 0.433 and R2 = 0.334, respectively, both P < 0.0001). The width of the reticular dermis followed also a significant quadratic distribution according to age (R2 = 0.193, P = 0.011). These parameters could partially explain the lifelong functional changes taking place in the skin and propose a baseline providing a useful entry point for future investigation.
Adenosine A2B and A3 receptor location at the mouse neuromuscular junction
Authors: Garcia Neus , Priego Mercedes , Hurtado Erica , Obis Teresa , Santafe Manel M. , Tomàs Marta , Lanuza Maria Angel , Tomàs Josep
Published: April 2014

To date, four subtypes of adenosine receptors have been cloned (A1R, A2AR, A2BR, and A3R). In a previous study we used confocal immunocytochemistry to identify A1R and A2AR receptors at mouse neuromuscular junctions (NMJs). The data shows that these receptors are localized differently in the three cells (muscle, nerve and glia) that configure the NMJs. A1R localizes in the terminal teloglial Schwann cell and nerve terminal, whereas A2AR localizes in the postsynaptic muscle and in the axon and nerve terminal. Here, we use Western blotting to investigate the presence of A2BR and A3R receptors in striated muscle and immunohistochemistry to localize them in the three cells of the adult neuromuscular synapse. The data show that A2BR and A3R receptors are present in the nerve terminal and muscle cells at the NMJs. Neither A2BR nor A3R receptors are localized in the Schwann cells. Thus, the four subtypes of adenosine receptors are present in the motor endings. The presence of these receptors in the neuromuscular synapse allows the receptors to be involved in the modulation of transmitter release.
Successful pregnancy in a woman with uterine scarring by transverse fundal cesarean section
Authors: Nishida Ryutaro , Morikawa Mamoru , Yamada Takahiro , Takeda Masamitsu , Akaishi Rina , Cho Kazutoshi , Minakami Hisanori
Published: April 2014

There has been only one case to date of pregnancy outcome after fundal transverse cesarean section (FTC). We report a pregnancy established after FTC. The FTC was performed at gestational week (GW) 24 in this patient's first pregnancy, but the uterus was preserved. Magnetic resonance imaging studies performed four times in her second pregnancy consistently showed part of the uterine fundus in which the muscle layer was interrupted. Concern regarding spontaneous uterine rupture in the absence of labor pains prompted us to interrupt her pregnancy at GW 31+5, delivering a premature, but otherwise healthy female infant, weighing 1832 g. The infant required transient intratracheal intubation for respiratory distress syndrome (for less than 1 h), but had an otherwise uneventful clinical course. Two cases, including ours, suggest that successful pregnancy outcome is feasible at least in some women with uterine scarring due to FTC.