bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unravelling the multifaceted roles of Atg proteins to improve cancer therapy
Authors: Chen Y. , Liu X.‐R. , Yin Y.‐Q. , Lee C.‐J. , Wang F.‐T. , Liu H.‐Q. , Wu X.‐T. , Liu J.
Published: February 2014

Autophagy follows a lysosomal degradation pathway in which a cell digests its own components. It is highly regulated by a limited number of autophagy‐related genes (Atg) and the proteins they encode, that are crucial for cells to undergo the process via modulating autophagsome formation. Recently, accumulating evidence has revealed the core molecular machinery of autophagy; however, intricate relationships between autophagy and cancer remain an enigma. Several studies have shown that Atgs can play an important role in carcinogenesis, by which Atgs may modulate a series of oncogenic and tumour suppressive pathways, implicating microRNA (miRNA) involvement. In this review, we will present the key role of Atgs in deciding the fate of cancer cells, discuss some representative Atgs and their proteins such as ULK, Beclin‐1, and Atg8/LC3‐Atg4, which can also be regulated by miRNAs. Thus, Atgs can be considered to be targets for cancer treatment, which may illuminate the future of cancer therapy.
IDENTIFYING THE EFFECT OF OPEN ACCESS ON CITATIONS USING A PANEL OF SCIENCE JOURNALS
Authors: McCABE MARK J. , SNYDER CHRISTOPHER M.
Published: February 2014

An open‐access journal allows free online access to its articles, obtaining revenue from fees charged to submitting authors or from institutional support. Using panel data on science journals, we are able to circumvent problems plaguing previous studies of the impact of open access on citations. In contrast to the huge effects found in these previous studies, we find a more modest effect: moving from paid to open access increases cites by 8% on average in our sample. The benefit is concentrated among top‐ranked journals. In fact, open access causes a statistically significant reduction in cites to the bottom‐ranked journals in our sample, leading us to conjecture that open access may intensify competition among articles for readers' attention, generating losers as well as winners. (JEL L17, O33)
Modelling surface fine fuel dynamics across climate gradients in eucalypt forests of south‐eastern Australia
Authors: Thomas P. B. , Watson P. J. , Bradstock R. A. , Penman T. D. , Price O. F.
Published: February 2014

An understanding of the effects of climate on fuel is required to predict future changes to fire. We explored the climatic determinants of variations in surface fine fuel parameters across forests (dry and wet sclerophyll plus rainforest) and grassy woodlands of south‐eastern Australia. Influences of vegetation type and climate on fuel were examined through statistical modelling for estimates of litterfall, decomposition and steady state fine litter fuel load obtained from published studies. Strong relationships were found between climate, vegetation type and all three litter parameters. Litterfall was positively related to mean annual rainfall and mean annual temperature across all vegetation types. Decomposition was both negatively and positively related to mean annual temperature at low and high levels of warm‐season rainfall respectively. Steady state surface fine fuel load was generally, negatively related to mean annual temperature but mean annual rainfall had divergent effects dependent on vegetation type: i.e. positive effect in low productivity dry sclerophyll forests and grassy woodlands versus negative effect in high productivity wet sclerophyll forests and rainforests. The species composition of the vegetation types may have influenced decomposition and steady state fuel load responses in interaction with climate: e.g. lower decomposition rates in the low productivity vegetation types that occupied drier environments may be partially due to the predominance of species with sclerophyllous leaves. The results indicate that uncertain and highly variable future trends in precipitation may have a crucial role in determining the magnitude and direction of change in surface fine fuel load across south‐eastern Australia.
Richard Rorty's Conception of Philosophy of Education Revisited
Authors: Noaparast Khosrow Bagheri
Published: February 2014

In this essay Khosrow Bagheri Noaparast argues that, by focusing on acculturation and edification, Richard Rorty has provided a promising view for education because without acculturation, education turns into a destructive endeavor, and without edification, education risks the danger of being repetitive and reproductive. However, Rorty's view is problematic in terms of the characteristics he holds for acculturation and edification, as well as the incommensurable relation he maintains exists between the two. Noaparast asserts that there are three unnecessary dichotomies in Rorty's educational view: sentiment versus argument, solidarity versus objectivity, and acculturation versus edification. In the case of the first dichotomy, Noaparast contends, one should combine sentiment and argument or else embrace arbitrariness in dealing with different frames of reference. As for the second dichotomy, since solidarity is vital in providing us with scientific consensus, it cannot be the alternative to objectivity. Finally, the third dichotomy would make the very idea of edification impossible to realize unless there can be a relation between the two phases of education. Noaparast concludes that Rorty's view on education holds great promise if we can find a way around these dichotomies.
Ceratocystis smalleyi colonization of bitternut hickory and host responses in the xylem
Authors: Park J.‐H. , Juzwik J.
Published: February 2014

Colonization of Carya cordiformis sapwood by Ceratocystis smalleyi and subsequent host defence responses following artificial inoculation were investigated using anatomical and histological techniques. Hyphae of C. smalleyi were observed in all sapwood xylem features confirming the ability of the pathogen to invade and colonize the xylem tissues of the host species. The fungus was isolated from within and at the margins of discoloured sapwood areas at 2 and 12 months after inoculation. General host defence responses that included vessel occlusion with gels or tyloses, lipid accumulation, and production of phenolic compounds were observed in xylem tissues of inoculated C. cordiformis stems. Pectic substances, lipids, and to a rare extent, phenolic compounds were detected in vascular gels. The lipid‐rich barriers observed likely prevent lateral expansion of the fungus in the sapwood. Furthermore, lack of fungus sporulation within vessels may restrict axial spread of the fungus. C. smalleyi appears to be a limited vascular wilt pathogen of bitternut hickory based on these observations and previously reported sap flow reduction correlated with multiple infections in artificially inoculated trees.
Relationship of low vitamin D status with positive, negative and cognitive symptom domains in people with first‐episode schizophrenia
Authors: Graham K.A. , Keefe R.S. , Lieberman J.A. , Calikoglu A.S. , Lansing K.M. , Perkins D.O.
Published: February 2014

Aim

Deficient vitamin D levels are very common among Americans of all ages and ethnicities, but little is known about its prevalence or associated problems among those with schizophrenia.

Methods

Stored plasma from 20 recent onset schizophrenia subjects and 20 matched healthy comparison subjects were analysed for 25 OH vitamin D, and related to measures of symptom severity and neurocognition.

Results

There was no significant difference in mean 25 OH vitamin D between the schizophrenia and the healthy comparison subjects (28.2 standard deviation (SD) 12.6 ng mL−1 vs. 29.9 SD 14.3 ng mL−1), and about half the subjects in each group had insufficient levels (<30 ng mL−1). Among psychosis subjects, greater severity of negative symptoms was correlated with lower vitamin D status (r = −0.55, P = 0.012); the correlations of overall symptom severity and positive symptom severity with 25 OH vitamin D levels approached significance (r = −0.42, P = 0.07 and r = −0.36, P = 0.12, respectively). There was no relationship of vitamin D with depressive symptoms. Among the schizophrenia subjects, lower 25 OH vitamin D levels were associated with more severe overall cognitive deficits (r = 0.56, P = 0.019).

Conclusion

This study found that lower vitamin D levels in schizophrenia subjects were associated with more severe negative symptoms and overall cognitive deficits. However, the cross‐sectional design precludes any conclusions about whether low vitamin D status in fact causes more severe negative symptoms and cognitive impairments. No relationship was found between lower vitamin D levels and depressive symptoms.
Students' perception of peer‐assessment in the context of a treatment planning course
Authors: Teich S. T. , Demko C. A. , Lang L. A.
Published: February 2014

Objective

Peer assessment is grounded in philosophies of active learning, and it would seem that this tool is a viable method for critical thinking development. The purpose of this article was to present how junior students at Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine (CWRU) perceive the value of a peer‐assessment activity in the context of a treatment planning course.

Methodology

As a part of the final exam for the junior year Treatment Planning course, students were requested to evaluate a de‐identified assignment submitted by one of their peers. Following the exam, a survey was sent to the students to determine how they perceived the peer‐assessment activity and how this relates to other learning experiences in the course.

Results

Our results show that students' perception of the benefit of peer grading was not associated with any individual peer‐assignment characteristics, or course characteristics. Similar results were obtained regarding the perceived benefit of identifying evidence. Moderate correlations were observed between peer evaluation characteristics.

Conclusions

It was concluded that: (i) junior dental students are not homogenous in their opinions regarding the value of an activity related to evaluation of a peer's assignment and (ii) student's perceptions regarding the peer‐grading component of peer assessment were not correlated with perceptions related to other learning processes in the treatment planning course.
Evolutionary responses to global change: lessons from invasive species
Authors: Moran Emily V. , Alexander Jake M.
Published: February 2014

Biologists have recently devoted increasing attention to the role of rapid evolution in species' responses to environmental change. However, it is still unclear what evolutionary responses should be expected, at what rates, and whether evolution will save populations at risk of extinction. The potential of biological invasions to provide useful insights has barely been realised, despite the close analogies to species responding to global change, particularly climate change; in both cases, populations encounter novel climatic and biotic selection pressures, with expected evolutionary responses occurring over similar timescales. However, the analogy is not perfect, and invasive species are perhaps best used as an upper bound on expected change. In this article, we review what invasive species can and cannot teach us about likely evolutionary responses to global change and the constraints on those responses. We also discuss the limitations of invasive species as a model and outline directions for future research.
Prodromal features for Parkinson's disease – baseline data from the TREND study
Authors: Gaenslen A. , Wurster I. , Brockmann K. , Huber H. , Godau J. , Faust B. , Lerche S. , Eschweiler G. W. , Maetzler W. , Berg D.
Published: February 2014

Background and purpose

A number of non‐motor features are known to precede motor manifestations of Parkinson's disease (PD). They are supposed to already represent the prodromal neurodegenerative state in those who later develop PD and are thus called prodromal markers. In this study, three prodromal markers, depression, rapid eye movement behaviour disorder (RBD) and hyposmia, were selected and were related to other prodromal features in elderly individuals without PD.

Methods

From the Tübinger Evaluation of Risk Factors for Early Detection of Neurodegeneration (TREND) study, 698 healthy individuals aged 50–80 years reporting one or more of the selected prodromal markers (SPMs), but without neurodegenerative disorders, were evaluated and classified according to the status of prodromal markers. Other prodromal PD‐related features were assessed with a 23‐item questionnaire and compared between participants with and without the three SPMs.

Results

Individuals with the SPMs for PD endorsed more of the additional possible prodromal features of PD than those without; of 23 possible prodromal features, the median number identified amongst participants with no SPMs was two, compared with four with one marker, five with two and seven with three (P < 0.001). Regarding individual SPMs, participants with depression and RBD endorsed five of 23 markers, compared with three for those with hyposmia (P = 0.001). There was no significant increase in the number of prodromal features amongst those with two SPMs compared with those with only one marker.

Conclusions

Individuals with the SPMs for PD report a higher prevalence of other prodromal PD symptoms. This may indicate that these markers can identify individuals at risk for PD.
Intracranial artery dissection
Authors: Sikkema T. , Uyttenboogaart M. , Eshghi O. , De Keyser J. , Brouns R. , van Dijk J. M. C. , Luijckx G. J.
Published: February 2014

The aim of this narrative review is to evaluate the pathogenesis, clinical features, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of intracranial artery dissection (IAD). IAD is a rare and often unrecognized cause of stroke or subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH), especially in young adults. Two types of IAD can be identified: a subintimal or subadventitial dissection. It is suggested that a subintimal dissection results in luminal stenosis, thromboembolism and subsequently cerebral ischaemia, whilst a subadventitial IAD could result in the formation of a pseudo‐aneurysm and compression on brainstem or cranial nerves. Rupture of such a dissecting aneurysm causes SAH. The exact cause of IAD remains unknown but several factors are associated with its development. Diagnosis is based on clinical presentation and specific features seen on multimodal neuroimaging. The management of IAD depends on the clinical presentation. In the case of cerebral ischaemia, anticoagulants or antiplatelet agents are used, whilst in the case of SAH endovascular treatment is primarily advocated. Prognosis depends on clinical presentation. Presentation with SAH has a worse prognosis.
Pittsburgh compound B retention and progression of cognitive status – a meta‐analysis
Authors: Chen X. , Li M. , Wang S. , Zhu H. , Xiong Y. , Liu X.
Published: February 2014

Our aim was to conduct a meta‐analysis of longitudinal studies assessing the association between Pittsburgh compound B (PiB) retention and the progression of cognitive status in healthy elderly, in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD). PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase and the Cochrane Library up to April 2013 were searched for studies reporting PiB retention at baseline and conversion of clinical status at follow‐up, with manual searches of bibliographies of key retrieved articles and relevant reviews. Two independent reviewers extracted data on individual numbers with PiB positive or negative status at baseline and corresponding numbers of patients with cognitive decline at follow‐up (conversion from healthy elderly to MCI or AD, or from MCI to AD, or a Mini‐Mental State Examination decline >3 for AD patients). Relative risks were pooled using fixed‐effects or random‐effects models as appropriate. Associations were tested in subgroups representing three different phases of AD. Publication bias was evaluated with funnel plots. Twelve cohort studies including 1275 participants were included with a follow‐up period ranging from 1 to 3.8 years. The pooled adjusted relative risks were 3.75 (95% confidence interval 2.76–5.09; P for heterogeneity 0.16; fixed‐effects model) for disease progression, 1.73 (0.63–4.75; P for heterogeneity 0.27; fixed‐effects model) for AD patients (four studies), 4.03 (2.68–6.07; P for heterogeneity 0.49; fixed‐effects model) for MCI patients (eight studies) and 3.67 (2.25–5.99; P for heterogeneity 0.26; fixed‐effects model) for disease progression in healthy elderly (six studies). Baseline PiB positive status is associated with a significantly increased risk of cognitive progression in healthy elderly and MCI patients.
Two‐year seizure reduction in adults with medically intractable partial onset epilepsy treated with responsive neurostimulation: Final results of the RNS System Pivotal trial
Authors: Heck Christianne N. , King‐Stephens David , Massey Andrew D. , Nair Dileep R. , Jobst Barbara C. , Barkley Gregory L. , Salanova Vicenta , Cole Andrew J. , Smith Michael C. , Gwinn Ryder P. , Skidmore Christopher , Van Ness Paul C. , Bergey Gregory K. , Park Yong D. , Miller Ian , Geller Eric , Rutecki Paul A. , Zimmerman Richard , Spencer David C. , Goldman Alica , Edwards Jonathan C. , Leiphart James W. , Wharen Robert E. , Fessler James , Fountain Nathan B. , Worrell Gregory A. , Gross Robert E. , Eisenschenk Stephan , Duckrow Robert B. , Hirsch Lawrence J. , Bazil Carl , O'Donovan Cormac A. , Sun Felice T. , Courtney Tracy A. , Seale Cairn G. , Morrell Martha J.
Published: February 2014

Objective

To demonstrate the safety and effectiveness of responsive stimulation at the seizure focus as an adjunctive therapy to reduce the frequency of seizures in adults with medically intractable partial onset seizures arising from one or two seizure foci.

Methods

Randomized multicenter double‐blinded controlled trial of responsive focal cortical stimulation (RNS System). Subjects with medically intractable partial onset seizures from one or two foci were implanted, and 1 month postimplant were randomized 1:1 to active or sham stimulation. After the fifth postimplant month, all subjects received responsive stimulation in an open label period (OLP) to complete 2 years of postimplant follow‐up.

Results

All 191 subjects were randomized. The percent change in seizures at the end of the blinded period was −37.9% in the active and −17.3% in the sham stimulation group (p = 0.012, Generalized Estimating Equations). The median percent reduction in seizures in the OLP was 44% at 1 year and 53% at 2 years, which represents a progressive and significant improvement with time (p < 0.0001). The serious adverse event rate was not different between subjects receiving active and sham stimulation. Adverse events were consistent with the known risks of an implanted medical device, seizures, and of other epilepsy treatments. There were no adverse effects on neuropsychological function or mood.

Significance

Responsive stimulation to the seizure focus reduced the frequency of partial‐onset seizures acutely, showed improving seizure reduction over time, was well tolerated, and was acceptably safe. The RNS System provides an additional treatment option for patients with medically intractable partial‐onset seizures.
Posterior quadrant disconnection surgery for Sturge‐Weber syndrome
Authors: Sugano Hidenori , Nakanishi Hajime , Nakajima Madoka , Higo Takuma , Iimura Yasushi , Tanaka Kyoko , Hosozawa Mariko , Niijima Shinichi , Arai Hajime
Published: February 2014

Objective

Some patients with Sturge‐Weber syndrome (SWS) need epilepsy surgery for adequate seizure control and prevention of psychomotor deterioration. The majority of patients with SWS have leptomeningeal angioma located over the temporal, parietal, and occipital lobes. We applied posterior quadrant disconnection surgery for this type of SWS with intractable seizure. We evaluated the efficacy of this procedure in seizure control and psychomotor development.

Methods

Ten patients who were surgically treated using the posterior quadrantectomy (PQT) were enrolled in this study. Surgical outcome was analyzed as seizure‐free or not at 2 years after surgery. Psychomotor development was evaluated by the scores of mental developmental index (MDI) and psychomotor developmental index (PDI) in the Bayley Scales of Infant Development II preoperatively, and at 6 and 12 months after the PQT.

Results

Eight of 10 patients were seizure‐free. Patients without complete elimination of the angiomatous areas had residual seizures. Average MDI and PDI scores before the surgery were 64.8 and 71.6, respectively. Scores of MDI at 6 and 12 months after the PQT in seizure‐free patients were 80.5 and 84.5, respectively (p < 0.01). PDI scores at these postoperative intervals were 87.3 and 86.4, respectively (p < 0.05). Patients with residual seizures did not improve in either MDI or PDI.

Significance

The PQT achieved good seizure control and improved psychomotor development in patients with SWS. The complete deafferentation of angiomatous areas is required for seizure‐free results and psychomotor developmental improvement.

A PowerPoint slide summarizing this article is available for download in the Supporting Information section here.
Attempts to induce nocardioform placentitis (Crossiela equi) experimentally in mares
Authors: Canisso I. F. , Ball B. A. , Erol E. , Claes A. , Scoggin K. E. , McDowell K. J. , Williams N. M. , Dorton A. R. , Wolfsdorf K. E. , Squires E. L. , Troedsson M. H. T.
Published: February 2014

Reasons for performing study

Nocardioform placentitis in horses is poorly understood, and the development of an experimental model would be of help in understanding the pathogenesis of the disease.

Objectives

To investigate whether (1) intrauterine inoculation ofCrossiela equiduring the periovulatory period or (2) i.v., oral or intranasopharyngeal inoculation ofC. equiduring midgestation would result in nocardioform placentitis, and (3) before and after mating endometrial swabs present evidence of nocardioform placentitis‐associated organisms (C. equiorAmycolatopsisspp.).

Methods

InStudyI, mares (n = 20) received an intrauterine inoculation ofC. equi24 h after artificial insemination. Endometrial swabs were obtained 24 h post inoculation forPCRanalysis. InStudyII, pregnant mares (at 180–240 days of gestation) were inoculated withC. equiby intranasopharyngeal (n = 5), oral (n = 4) or i.v. (n = 4) routes. Sixty contemporaneous pregnant mares maintained on the same farm served as control animals. InStudyIII, privately owned Thoroughbred mares (n = 200) had endometrial swabs collected before and within 24–48 h after mating for detection of nocardioform microorganisms.

Results

InStudyI,C.equiwas identified byPCRin 3 of 20 mares following intrauterine inoculation. Pregnancy was established in 19 of 20 treated mares. There were 2 embryonic losses and one abortion at 177 days of gestation (undetermined cause). Sixteen mares delivered a normal foal and placenta. InStudyII, one mare (oral inoculation) aborted at 200 days of gestation (unidentified cause). The remaining mares delivered a normal foal and placenta. InStudyIII, none of the mares yielded positive endometrialPCRfor nocardioform microorganisms.

Conclusions

We were unable to induce nocardioform placentitis, and there was no evidence of nocardioform microorganisms in endometrial swabs of broodmares before or after mating. These findings suggest that nocardioform placentitis is not induced simply via the presence of nocardiform actinomycetes and that route, insufficient duration of exposure and dose may play a role in the development of disease. Additional predispositions may also be involved in the development of nocardioform placentitis.
Do tetracyclines and erythromycin exert anti‐acne effects by inhibition of P450‐mediated degradation of retinoic acid?
Authors: Hellmann‐Regen Julian , Herzog Irmelin , Fischer Norina , Heuser Isabella , Regen Francesca
Published: February 2014

For decades, retinoic acid (RA) is known as the most potent therapeutic option in the therapy of acne and altered homeostasis of endogenous retinoids has been discussed in the context of acne pathogenesis. Besides retinoids, antibiotics such as tetracyclines or erythromycin are well established in acne pharmacotherapy. Accumulating evidence points towards common molecular pathways being targeted by both RA and anti‐acne antibiotics; however, a precise ‘common denominator’ connecting these chemically diverse anti‐acne agents has not yet been identified. Interestingly, tetracyclines are associated with the occurrence of pseudotumor cerebri, a rare neurological side effect otherwise associated with retinoid intoxication or RA exposure. This association at the clinical level suggests an interaction between tetracyclines and endogenous RA signalling. As erythromycin does not cross the blood brain barrier, CNS side effects are not to be expected, yet not precluding a possible local interaction of erythromycin with endogenous RA metabolism in the skin. We hypothesize tetracyclines and erythromycin to locally inhibit endogenous RA metabolism in the skin and thus mimic therapeutic action of RA. This readily testable hypothesis suggests inhibition of endogenous RA metabolism and amplification of endogenous RA signalling as a mechanism underlying the biochemical actions of antibiotics in acne therapy. Elucidation of such interactions may ultimately enhance our understanding of acne therapy and pathogenesis and may yield a sound, scientific basis for hypothesis‐driven development of novel therapeutic compounds.
Improvement of fatigue crack growth resistance by controlled overaging in 2024‐T3 aluminium alloy
Authors: Tzamtzis A. , Kermanidis A. T.
Published: February 2014

A controlled overaging process is proposed to increase region II fatigue crack propagation resistance of 2024‐T3 aluminium alloy. Overaging was achieved by subjecting the material from the initial T3 state to heat treatment at specific aging temperatures resulting in substantial reduction in hardness. Fatigue crack growth tests were subsequently performed in the intermediate ΔΚ region to assess the influence of aging treatment on fatigue crack propagation rate. The experimental results showed that overaging at high temperatures enhances the fatigue crack growth resistance of the material with regard to initial T3 state. Fatigue crack growth rates were found to decrease with increasing overaging temperature. Cyclic stress strain tests were performed to assess the impact of the performed overaging on cyclic behaviour. The results revealed that cyclic strain hardening is enhanced in the overaged material, contributing to increased fatigue crack closure levels.
Larval fish distribution and retention in the Canary Current system during the weak upwelling season
Authors: Moyano M. , Rodríguez J.M. , Benítez‐Barrios V.M. , Hernández‐León S.
Published: February 2014

The spatial distribution of fish larvae was studied in the Canaries‐African Coastal Transition Zone, outside the strong upwelling season. An onshore–offshore transition in the larval fish community structure was observed, from a coastal assemblage dominated by small pelagics (sardine, anchovy, mackerel), bounded by the upwelling front, to an offshore assemblage dominated by mesopelagic species (mainly Myctophidae, Phosichthydae, Gonostomatidae). Distribution of the neritic larvae was deeply influenced by the intense mesoscale activity found in the area, both horizontally (larvae were advected offshore but were always retained within the upwelling area) and vertically (larvae were deepened in the vicinity of two anticyclonic eddies). A combined effect of the upwelling front and a cyclonic–anticyclonic eddy dipole is likely the successful retention mechanism for these larvae. These results support the current belief that retention may be higher than previously thought in upwelling areas. Oceanic larvae were also collected in higher abundances near the front and an anticyclonic eddy. Neritic and oceanic larvae frequently showed a differentiated position in the water column, although they sometimes coexisted. Finally, larval connectivity between Islands within the Canary archipelago is suggested. The present study thus contributes to the understanding of the complex dispersal and retention processes in the Canaries‐African Coastal Transition Zone. However, results also highlight the poor knowledge of this region compared with the other three main Eastern Boundary Upwelling Systems in terms of ichthyoplankton dynamics. The importance of routine monitoring programs of commercial and non‐commercial species in the area is emphasized.
The late summer crustacean zooplankton in western U.S.A reservoirs reflects ecoregion, temperature and latitude
Authors: Beaver John R. , Tausz Claudia E. , Renicker Thomas R. , Holdren G. Chris , Hosler Denise M. , Manis Erin E. , Scotese Kyle C. , Teacher Catherine E. , Vitanye Benjamin T. , Davidson Rachel M.
Published: February 2014

We tested whether the crustacean zooplankton species composition and size structure (which are important determinants of energy flow in plankton food webs) during late summer in reservoirs would be related to ecoregional designations, catchment land use, temperature and latitude. We also examined whether the predictions of decreasing cladoceran body size with decreasing latitude (as observed for natural lakes) would be valid for reservoirs. Zooplankton samples were collected in late summer 2010 from 102 western U.S. reservoirs distributed over three major ecoregions from 32.5 to 48.6°N latitude.

Large‐bodied cladocerans (Daphnia pulex complex) and cyclopoid copepods (Diacyclops thomasi) were found in deeper, cooler reservoirs with forested catchments (Northwestern Forested Mountains). Small‐bodied cladocerans (Daphnia retrocurva, Diaphanosoma spp. and Chydorus sphaericus) and cyclopoid copepods (Tropocyclops prasinus) were more common in productive reservoirs in catchments influenced by agriculture (Great Plains). Small‐bodied cladocerans (Bosmina longirostris) dominated the otherwise modest crustacean zooplankton in reservoirs located in catchments dominated by evergreen shrub vegetation with limited forestation (Western Xeric). Calanoid copepods also displayed clear distribution by ecoregion.

Increasing water temperature and decreasing latitude were associated with smaller mean Daphnia and cladoceran body lengths and lower absolute biomass of daphniids. Daphniids were rare or absent in warm waters (i.e. below 36o N latitude and/or from sites located <500 m altitude).

Species composition and mean body size of the cladoceran zooplankton were consistent with the feeding habits of the common planktivorous fish – salmon (Oncorhynchus spp.) and lake trout (Salvelinus spp.) in the Northwestern Forested Mountains, gizzard shad (Dorosoma cepedianum) in the Great Plains and threadfin shad (Dorosoma petenense) in the Western Xeric ecoregion.

Our study indicates that the taxonomic composition and size structure of the cladoceran zooplankton in reservoirs are highly connected to ecoregional attributes such as catchment land use, temperature and latitude as has been observed for natural lakes.
Habitat coupling in a large lake system: delivery of an energy subsidy by an offshore planktivore to the nearshore zone of Lake Superior
Authors: Stockwell Jason D. , Yule Daniel L. , Hrabik Thomas R. , Sierszen Michael E. , Isaac Edmund J.
Published: February 2014

We hypothesised that the autumn spawning migration of Lake Superior cisco (Coregonus artedi) provides a resource subsidy, in the form of energy‐rich cisco eggs, from the offshore pelagic to the nearshore benthic community over winter, when alternate prey production is likely to be low.

We tested this hypothesis using fish and macroinvertebrate surveys, fish population demographics, diet and stable isotope analyses, and bioenergetics modelling.

The benthic, congeneric lake whitefish (C. clupeaformis) was a clear beneficiary of cisco spawning. Cisco eggs represented 16% of lake whitefish annual consumption in terms of biomass, but 34% of energy (because of their high energy density: >10 kJ g wet mass−1). Stable isotope analyses were consistent with these results and suggest that other nearshore fish species may also rely on cisco eggs.

The lipid content of lake whitefish liver almost doubled from 26 to 49% between November and March, while that of muscle increased from 14 to 26% over the same period, suggesting lake whitefish were building, rather than depleting, lipid reserves during winter.

In the other Laurentian Great Lakes, where cisco populations remain very low and rehabilitation efforts are underway, the offshore‐to‐nearshore ecological link apparent in Lake Superior has been replaced by non‐native planktivorous species. These non‐native species spawn in spring have smaller eggs and shorter incubation periods. The rehabilitation of cisco in these systems should reinstate the onshore subsidy as it has in Lake Superior.
The n‐dimensional hypervolume
Authors: Blonder Benjamin , Lamanna Christine , Violle Cyrille , Enquist Brian J.
Published: February 2014

Aim

The Hutchinsonian hypervolume is the conceptual foundation for many lines of ecological and evolutionary inquiry, including functional morphology, comparative biology, community ecology and niche theory. However, extant methods to sample from hypervolumes or measure their geometry perform poorly on high‐dimensional or holey datasets.

Innovation

We first highlight the conceptual and computational issues that have prevented a more direct approach to measuring hypervolumes. Next, we present a new multivariate kernel density estimation method that resolves many of these problems in an arbitrary number of dimensions.

Main conclusions

We show that our method (implemented as the ‘hypervolume’ R package) can match several extant methods for hypervolume geometry and species distribution modelling. Tools to quantify high‐dimensional ecological hypervolumes will enable a wide range of fundamental descriptive, inferential and comparative questions to be addressed.
Sward herbage accumulation and nutritive value as affected by pasture renovation strategy
Authors: Keim J. P. , López I. F. , Balocchi O. A.
Published: February 2014

Perennial ryegrass pastures are the main feed for dairy cows in temperate regions. Alternatives to increase farm sustainability such as naturalized pastures have been proposed, and only limited knowledge exists regarding their potential as a forage source for grazing dairy systems. A field study was undertaken between September 2006 and September 2009 in Valdivia, Chile, to assess the effect of three pasture renovation strategies [naturalized fertilized (NFP); cultivated fertilized Lolium perenne and Trifolium repens mixture (RGWC); and cultivated fertilized Bromus valdivianus, Dactylis glomerata, Holcus lanatus, Lolium perenne and Trifolium repens mixture (MIXED)] over a naturalized degraded pasture on herbage production, botanical change and chemical composition. The three renovation strategies increased total herbage accumulation. During 2007–2008 and 2008–2009, the naturalized fertilized pasture produced similar amounts of dry matter as the cultivated fertilized mixtures. A higher grazing efficiency (the proportion of total herbage mass accumulation, removed by grazing dairy cows) was estimated for NNFP, RGWC and MIXED. Fertilization and liming increased the proportions of Lolium perenne and Bromus spp. at the expense of Agrostis capillaris and Trifolium repens. In the cultivated mixtures, the amount of Lolium perenne tended to decrease over time. Crude protein concentration and digestibility tended to be higher for naturalized fertilized and perennial ryegrass–white clover pastures throughout the experiment. These results suggest that fertilization and liming of a low‐producing naturalized pasture might be a sound alternative for pasture improvement.
Optimal harvest timing vs. harvesting for animal forage supply: Impacts on production and quality of lucerne on the Loess Plateau, China
Authors: Robertson M. , Shen Y. , Philp J. , Hou F. , Yang D. , Yang Z. , Ying K. , Chen X. , Bell L. , Whish J. , Komarek A. M. , Bellotti B.
Published: February 2014

The current promotion of larger areas of lucerne (Medicago sativa) production on the Loess Plateau in China prompted this study, which investigated lucerne harvesting practices by farmers and the scope for improved harvest yield and quality by optimizing harvest date, interval and height above ground. On‐farm surveys were conducted to document the dominant harvesting practices used by farmers and their perceptions of barriers to adoption of alternative harvesting practices. In districts with less emphasis on livestock, less labour and inadequate facilities to store conserved lucerne, smaller areas of lucerne are grown and it is often harvested daily to meet demand from penned livestock. The consequence is that much of the lucerne is harvested either before or after flowering, resulting in suboptimal yield of biomass and crude protein. Field experiments conducted at low and high rainfall locations on the Loess Plateau over three seasons showed that delaying the start to harvest until after mid‐June (the date of first flowering), while not affecting total biomass harvested for the season, does reduce leaf biomass harvested and hence crude protein concentration and yield. Lower crude protein is a consequence of a decline in both leaf percentage in harvested biomass and stem nitrogen concentration. Commencing harvests well before flowering with short (3 week) harvest intervals also penalized total and leaf biomass harvested. Raising cutting height from ground level (current farmer practice) to 50 mm (likely with the advent of mechanized harvesting) did not penalize harvested total or leaf biomass.
Effects of balance ability and handgrip height on kinematics of the gait, torso, and pelvis in elderly women using a four‐wheeled walker
Authors: Choi Hyuk‐Jae , Ko Chang‐Yong , Kang Sungjae , Ryu Jeicheong , Mun Museong , Jeon Hye‐Seon
Published: February 2014

Aim

Numerous elderly individuals use the four‐wheeled walker (FWW) as a gait‐assistive device. The walker's handgrip height is important for correct use. However, few clinical studies have investigated the biomechanical effects of the FWW's handgrip height on balance. Therefore, the present study assessed kinematic features of the gait, torso and pelvis during use of the FWW at two levels of handgrip height (48% vs 55% of the subject's height) while assessing balance in older adults.

Methods

A total of 20 older adults were allocated into two groups according to the Berg Balance Scale (BBS): good balance (GB; BBS ≥46) versus poor balance (PB; BBS <45). Participants walked with the FWW at 48% or 55% handgrip height for 10 m.

Results

Our study showed that the double‐support period and stance phase significantly increased at 55% handgrip height, but the swing phase significantly decreased in the GB group. In the PB group, velocity and stride length significantly increased at 55% handgrip height. Tilt angle of the torso in the GB group was significantly lower at 55% than at 48% handgrip height, but no differences were observed in the PB group. In the pelvis, initial contact and toe‐off angles of tilt were lower in the GB group at 55% handgrip height, but no differences were observed in the PB group.

Conclusions

These results showed that kinematic features of the gait, torso, and pelvis in older adults using the FWW might be dependent on the handgrip height of the FWW and the patient's balance. Additionally, greater than 48% of the body height might be appropriate for older adults with poor balance. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2015; 15: 182–188.
ADVATE prophylaxis: post hoc analysis of joint bleeding episodes
Authors: Valentino L. A. , Reyes C. M. , Ewenstein B. , Guzmán‐Becerra N. , Wong W. Y. , Schoenig‐Diesing C. , Romanov V.
Published: February 2014

Introduction

The ADVATE (rAHF‐PFM) Prophylaxis Study compared the efficacy of (i) standard factor (F) VIIII prophylaxis (SP) (20–40 IU kg−1 every other day) vs. pharmacokinetic‐tailored prophylaxis (PKP) (20–80 IU kg−1 every third day) and (ii) both prophylactic regimens with on‐demand therapy (OD) in 66 previously on‐demand‐treated patients (median age: 26 years; range: 7–59) with FVIII ≤2% and ≥8 joint haemorrhages in the year before enrolment.

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate joint bleeding episodes during the on‐demand and prophylactic study periods.

Methods

A post hoc analysis of joint bleeding episodes in the per protocol analysis set (n = 53) was conducted.

Results

The annualized joint bleeding rate (AJBR) was significantly lower for subjects treated with 12 months of SP (n = 30) or PKP (n = 23) as compared with 6 months of OD (n = 53): 55 {median AJBR 0.48 [interquartile range (IQR) 1.96]}, 72 [1.00 (4.07)] and 1164 [38.65 (24.81)] respectively (P < 0.0001). Median AJBR was comparable during both prophylaxis arms (0.5 and 1.0 respectively). In contrast, median AJBR during on‐demand therapy was 38.7 (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Both SP and PKP significantly increased the median number of days between joint bleeding episodes compared with OD: 268.9, 182.9 and 7.4 respectively (P < 0.0001). Study subjects experienced these joint‐protective benefits of prophylaxis regardless of the number of baseline target joints.
Integration of the Client Self‐Care Commitment Model in a dental hygiene Curriculum
Authors: Miles SS , Rogo EJ , Calley KH , Hill NR
Published: February 2014

Objective

This exploratory study investigated whether integration of the Client Self‐Care Commitment Model (CSCCM) Instructional Module in a dental hygiene curriculum, as an additional educational experience, would further enhance students' client‐centred knowledge, values and actions.

Methods

Subjects (n = 26) were second‐year students enrolled in a BS entry‐level dental hygiene programme with random assignments to two groups. The experimental group participated in a 2‐h didactic session, an 8‐h preclinical session, an 8‐h clinical session and a 1‐h question and answer period. An online pretest–post‐test survey administered at three time intervals (baseline, 3 and 6 weeks) was used to measure differences between the groups on three subscales (knowledge, values and actions).

Results

Cronbach's α for each subscale across time was above 0.90. A repeated‐measures anova determined that there were no statistically significant interactions between Time and Group (experimental or control group) for the knowledge and values variables; however, there was a significant interaction between Time (P = 0.003) and Group (P = 0.033) for the actions variable. A content analysis of participants' responses to three open‐ended questions reflected both positive and negative comments and revealed that students' primary barrier to implementing the model in client care was lack of time.

Conclusions

Significant differences in the actions variable between the groups suggested that implementation of the CSCCM Instructional Module enhanced students' client‐centred actions during client care.
Cone beam computed tomography in Endodontics – a review
Authors: Patel S. , Durack C. , Abella F. , Shemesh H. , Roig M. , Lemberg K.
Published: February 2014

Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) produces undistorted three‐dimensional information of the maxillofacial skeleton, including the teeth and their surrounding tissues with a lower effective radiation dose than computed tomography. The aim of this paper is to: (i) review the current literature on the applications and limitations of CBCT; (ii) make recommendations for the use of CBCT in Endodontics; (iii) highlight areas of further research of CBCT in Endodontics.
Influence of Lubricants and Attrition Milling Parameters on the Quality of Zirconolite Ceramics, Consolidated by Hot Isostatic Pressing, for Immobilization of Plutonium
Authors: Squire Jonathan , Maddrell Ewan R. , Hyatt Neil C. , Stennett Martin C.
Published: February 2014

The effect of attrition milling on the processing of precursor oxides was investigated, with reference to the fabrication of titanate ceramics for the immobilization of plutonium and actinides, consolidated by hot isostatic pressing. Difficulties encountered during the lubricant removal step masked any correlation between the milling conditions and the final product. Four lubricants were investigated zinc stearate, Ceridust™, polyethylene glycol and oleic acid. The precursor blends were added to these lubricants to ensure the powders remained free flowing while dry milling in an attrition mill. All except Ceridust™ allowed the milled powders to be freely discharged. Examination of the products showed that each sample was highly porous and all were below the target minimum of 92 % of theoretical density. XRD and SEM analysis showed the production of a multiphase ceramic (zirconolite, perovskite, ilmenite) rather than the single target phase zirconolite. The impact of incomplete lubricant burn out on the oxidation states of Ce and Fe was investigated by XANES and Mössbauer spectroscopy, respectively. Suggested modifications to the HIP processing line, including the addition of an in situ sintered metal filter, the use of fumed metal oxides and the introduction of electrical conductivity in the precursors, are presented.
Characterization of Yttrium Iron Garnet/Barium Titanate Multiferroic Composites Prepared by Sol‐Gel and Coprecipitation Methods
Authors: Schileo Giorgio , Feteira Antonio , Reaney Ian M. , Postolache Petronel , Mitoseriu Liliana , Reichmann Klaus
Published: February 2014

Ceramic composites based on yttrium iron garnet (YIG) and barium titanate (BT) (30%wt YIG/70%wt BT) were prepared by two sol‐gel methods and a coprecipitation route. The impact of processing routes on dielectric and magnetic properties was investigated. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) data combined with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observations reveal the presence of both components and a good dispersion of YIG particles into the BT matrix. Ferrimagnetic behavior is observed in all composites, regardless of the preparation method. Ferroelectricity at room temperature was confirmed by Raman spectroscopy and dielectric measurements only in composites prepared by coprecipitation.
A community pharmacist-led anticoagulation management service: attitudes towards a new collaborative model of care in New Zealand†
Authors: Shaw John , Harrison Jeff , Harrison Jenny
Published: February 2014

Objective

To examine attitudes towards a new collaborative pharmacy-based model of care for management of warfarin treatment in the community. As background to the study, the New Zealand health authorities are encouraging greater clinical involvement of community pharmacists.

Methods

Fifteen community pharmacies in New Zealand took part in a community pharmacist-led anticoagulation management service (CPAMS). Participants (patients, general practitioners, practice nurses, pharmacists) were surveyed on their views on accessibility, convenience, confidence in the service, impact on warfarin control, impact on workloads, effect on relationships and whether the service should be further implemented. A small number from each group was interviewed on the same topics.

Key findings

Patients reported improved access, convenience, a preference for capillary testing, and the immediacy of the test result and dose changes. They indicated that they had a better understanding of their health problems. While sample sizes were small, the majority of general practitioners and practice nurses felt there were positive benefits for patients (convenience) and themselves (time saved) and expressed confidence in pharmacists' ability to provide the service. There were some concerns about potential loss of involvement in patient management. Pharmacists reported high levels of satisfaction with better use of their clinical knowledge in direct patient care and that their relationships with both patients and health professionals had improved.

Conclusions

The new model of care was highly valued by patients and supported by primary care practitioners. Wider implementation of CPAMS was strongly supported. Pharmacists and general practitioners involved in CPAMS reported a pre-existing collaborative relationship, and this appears to be important in effective implementation.