bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Livestock grazing alters multiple ecosystem properties and services in salt marshes: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Davidson Kate E. , Fowler Mike S. , Skov Martin W. , Doerr Stefan H. , Beaumont Nicola , Griffin John N.
Published: February 2017

The far‐reaching impacts of livestock grazing in terrestrial grasslands are widely appreciated, but how livestock affect the structure and functions of sensitive coastal ecosystems has hitherto lacked synthesis. Grazing‐induced changes in salt marshes have the potential to alter the provision of valuable ecosystem services, such as coastal protection, blue carbon and biodiversity conservation.

To investigate how livestock alter soil, vegetation and faunal properties in salt marshes, we conducted a global meta‐analysis of ungulate grazer impacts on commonly measured ecosystem properties (498 individual responses from 89 studies). We also tested stocking density, grazing duration, grazer identity, continent and vegetation type as potential modifiers of the grazing effect. The majority of studies were conducted in Europe (75) or the Americas (12), and investigated cattle (43) or sheep (22) grazing.

All measures of above‐ground plant material (height, cover, above‐ground biomass, litter) were decreased by grazing, potentially impairing coastal protection through diminished wave attenuation.

Soil carbon was reduced by grazing in American, but not European marshes, indicating a trade‐off with climate regulation that varies geographically. Additionally, grazing increased soil bulk density, salinity and daytime temperature, and reduced redox potential.

Biodiversity responses depended on focal group, with positive effects of grazing on vegetation species richness, but negative effects on invertebrate richness. Grazing reduced the abundance of herbivorous invertebrates, which may affect fish and crustaceans that feed in the marsh. Overall vertebrate abundance was not affected, but there was provisional evidence for increases over a longer duration of grazing, potentially increasing birdwatching and wildfowling opportunities.

Synthesis and applications. Our results reveal that the use of salt marshes for livestock production affects multiple ecosystem properties, creating trade‐offs and synergies with other ecosystem services. Grazing leads to reductions in blue carbon in the Americas but not in Europe. Grazing may compromise coastal protection and the provision of a nursery habitat for fish while creating provisioning and cultural benefits through increased wildfowl abundance. These findings can inform salt marsh grazing management, based on local context and desired ecosystem services.
Harvesting as a potential selective pressure on behavioural traits
Authors: Leclerc Martin , Zedrosser Andreas , Pelletier Fanie
Published: February 2017

Human activities are a major evolutionary force affecting wild populations. Selective pressure from harvest has mainly been documented for life‐history and morphological traits. The probability for an individual to be harvested, however, may also depend on its behaviour.

We report empirical studies that examined whether harvesting can exert selective pressures on behavioural traits.

We show that harvest‐induced selection on behavioural traits is not specific to a particular harvest method and can occur throughout the animal kingdom.

Synthesis and applications. Managers need to recognize that artificial selection caused by harvesting is possible. More empirical studies integrating physiological, behavioural, and life‐history traits should be carried out to test specific predictions of the potential for harvest‐induced selection on heritable traits using models developed in fisheries. To limit selective pressure on behaviour imposed by harvesting, managers could reduce harvest quotas or vary harvest regulations over time and/or space to reduce the strength of selection on a particular phenotype.
Early life conditions and precipitation influence the performance of widespread understorey herbs in variable light environments
Authors: Westerband Andrea C. , Horvitz Carol C.
Published: February 2017

The understorey of tropical forests is heterogeneous across time, and plants that inhabit this layer may exhibit adaptations (e.g. trait plasticity) that enable them to exploit this variability to their advantage. We tested the hypothesis that two widespread understorey herbs would perform equally well in a variable as in a constant environment, using a 2‐year shade‐house experiment.

We measured demographic traits (growth and survival), a physiological trait (maximum photosynthetic capacity), and life‐history traits (leaf life span and biomass allocation) of Heliconia tortuosa and Calathea crotalifera. We investigated how these traits were affected by light availability at the seedling stage, precipitation, and whether individuals experienced a constant or variable light environment.

Whether or not a variable environment was favourable for plants depended upon precipitation and the environment in which individuals started life. At low precipitation, plants in a variable light environment grew more than those in a constant environment, but only when individuals had lived as seedlings in low light. At high precipitation, plants in a constant environment grew more than those in a variable environment, regardless of early conditions. Survival was lower in a variable environment at low precipitation, and more so at high precipitation. Photosynthetic capacity was lower for individuals in a variable environment than in a constant environment when they had lived in high light as seedlings.

Calathea grew faster and survived more poorly than Heliconia, independently of the treatments. Calathea grew more at high than low precipitation while Heliconia grew more at low than high precipitation. Leaf life span and biomass allocation did not differ among treatments, although Calathea had a significantly greater proportion of its biomass above‐ground vs. that of Heliconia.

Synthesis. Environmental variability had a neutral or positive effect on biomass allocation, photosynthetic capacity, and leaf life span for these species. Survival was the only trait that was always lower in a variable environment. The effect of environmental variability was dependent on early life conditions as well as precipitation, suggesting that generalist species may experience high fitness as forest environments become more variable by maintaining high growth at the expense of survival.
Hybridization and introgression among three Aconitum (Ranunculaceae) species of different ploidy levels in the Tatra Mountains (Western Carpathians)
Authors: Sutkowska Agnieszka , Boroń Piotr , Warzecha Tomasz , Dębowski Jakub , Mitka Józef
Published: February 2017

Hybridization among species of
A

conitum effects their morphology and ecology. In this study the hybridization between the diploid 2n(2x) = 16 (
A

. lasiocarpum and
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. variegatum) and tetraploid 2n(4x) = 32 (
A

. firmum) species was documented in the Tatra Mountains (Western Carpathians) in a small, local population in a semi‐natural site. The hybrid species were: homoploid
A

. × pawlowskii (
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. lasiocarpum × 
A

. variegatum), and triploid
A

. × berdaui (
A

. firmum × 
A

. variegatum, 2n(3x) = 24). Chloroplast DNA (cpDNA) alleles formed two distinct haplotypes, one typical for the tetraploid and another for diploid lines, shared between the tetraploid, triploid and diploid groups, indicating introgressive hybridization. The presumed gene flow was from the tetraploid to diploid species via the triploid bridge. The only two specimens of
A

. × pawlowskii that harbored tetraploid (
A

. firmum) type cpDNA possessed bracteoles of
A

. firmum‐type. The remaining introgressed (cpDNA and Inter Simple Sequence Repeats (ISSR)) specimens (
A

. variegatum) were morphologically pure, implying cryptic introgression. ISSR loci shared between the tetraploid
A

. firmum and diploid
A

. variegatum support the hypothesis of an ancient allopolyploid origin of
A

. firmum and the diploid species of
A

. variegatum‐type as one of its parent.
Political Economy Model of Cross‐Border Mergers Under Mixed Oligopoly
Authors: Li Jie , Lu Jing , Jiang Mobing
Published: February 2017

This paper analyses the horizontal cross‐border mergers under the framework of political economy in mixed markets. We explore the conditions under which a cross‐border merger between a partially privatized foreign public firm and a profit‐maximizing domestic firm occurs and is approved by the domestic government. We show that a welfare‐maximizing domestic government approves the merger if the share owned by the foreign government is sufficiently low and the merger is relatively efficient; a government only caring about political contributions always approves such a merger; we also consider the case where the government cares about both social welfare and political contributions.
Credit Constraints, Export Mode and Firm Performance: An Investigation of China's Private Enterprises
Authors: Lin Faqin
Published: February 2017

Firms can export either directly or through a trade intermediary (indirect exporting). This paper examines how financial constraints determine whether firms export directly or indirectly, and how this choice affects firm performance. For this investigation, we use the most recent Chinese private firm‐level data, collected in 2011 by the World Bank. We establish two main results. First, indirect exporters face higher financial constraints than direct exporters. Second, indirect exporters are less productive and profitable than direct exporters. In addition, we rationalize these patterns with a simple model that incorporates credit constraints and imperfect contractibility in companies’ export decisions. Our results imply that although globalization allows more firms in developing countries to enter the global market through indirect exporting, limited access to capital restricts firms to exporting directly and precludes them from pursuing more profitable opportunities.
Expansion of the tropics: revisiting frontiers of geographical knowledge
Authors: Turton Stephen M.
Published: February 2017

The tropics are expanding poleward at an alarming rate—with massive implications for societies, economies, and natural environments. This expansion appears to be determined largely by anthropogenic drivers—notably rises in greenhouse gases. Of greatest concern is the poleward shift of the dry sub‐tropical zone into highly populated regions that have generally enjoyed a more temperate climate. While the effects of latitudinal shifts of climate zones will be most severe in temperate regions outside the tropics, there will also be significant changes in climate within the tropics—notably unprecedented thermal conditions for hundreds of millions of people, along with projections for more extreme weather events. Australia's geographical location makes it particularly vulnerable to an expanding tropics. As the tropics expand poleward, more of southern Australia will be influenced by the dry sub‐tropical zone and associated reductions in winter rainfall. These drying trends are projected to continue over most southern parts of Australia this century, accompanied by rising temperatures and more hot days. Future rainfall trends for northern Australia remain uncertain, but there is an expected significant increase in the number of hot days, together with more extreme weather events. Future climate change in northern Australia has been ignored by the White Paper for the Development of Northern Australia (2015), bringing into serious question the feasibility and affordability of many of the development policies, plans, and projects promulgated in the White Paper. Even without climate change, the north faces many significant environmental and economic challenges for its future development.
Effect of Different Solvents on the Measurement of Phenolics and the Antioxidant Activity of Mulberry (Morus atropurpurea Roxb.) with Accelerated Solvent Extraction
Authors: Yang Jiufang , Ou XiaoQun , Zhang Xiaoxu , Zhou ZiYing , Ma LiYan
Published: February 2017

The effects of 9 different solvents on the measurement of the total phenolics and antioxidant activities of mulberry fruits were studied using accelerated solvent extraction (ASE). Sixteen to 22 types of phenolics (flavonols, flavan‐3‐ols, flavanol, hydroxycinnamic acids, hydroxybenzoic acids, and stilbenes) from different mulberry extracts were characterized and quantified using HPLC‐MS/MS. The principal component analysis (PCA) was used to determine the suitable solvents to distinguish between different classes of phenolics. Additionally, the phenolic extraction abilities of ASE and ultrasound‐assisted extraction (UAE) were compared. The highest extraction efficiency could be achieved by using 50% acidified methanol (50MA) as ASE solvents with 15.14 mg/gallic acid equivalents g dry weight of mulberry fruit. The PCA results revealed that the 50MA followed by 50% acidified acetone (50AA) was the most efficient solvent for the extraction of phenolics, particularly flavonols (627.12 and 510.31 μg/g dry weight, respectively), while water (W) was not beneficial to the extraction of all categories of phenolics. Besides, the results of 3 antioxidant capability assays (DPPH, ABTS free radical‐scavenging assay, and ferric‐reducing antioxidant power assay) showed that water‐based organic solvents increased the antioxidant capabilities of the extracts compared with water or pure organic solvents. ASE was more suitable for the extraction of phenolics than UAE.
Occurrence, Characterization, and Antimicrobial Susceptibility of Salmonella enterica in Slaughtered Pigs in Sardinia
Authors: Fois Federica , Piras Francesca , Torpdahl Mia , Mazza Roberta , Consolati Simonetta G. , Spanu Carlo , Scarano Christian , De Santis Enrico P. L.
Published: February 2017

The aim of this study was to determine Salmonella occurrence in slaughtered finishing pigs and piglets and in slaughterhouse environment in order to characterize the isolates with phenotypical (antimicrobial testing) and molecular (PFGE, MLVA) methods. Nine slaughterhouses located in Sardinia were visited. Six hundred and eight samples collected from 106 pigs and 108 environmental samples were collected and analyzed. Salmonella was isolated in 65 of 504 (12.9%) samples from finishing pigs, with an occurrence of 15.1% in colon content, 12.7% in lymph nodes and liver, and 11.1% in carcass surface samples. Salmonella was never detected in piglets. The combined results of serotyping and PFGE showed a possible self‐contamination in 71.5% of Salmonella positive carcasses of lymph nodes and/or colon content carriers, pointing out the role of healthy pigs for carcass contamination. A significantly higher (P < 0.05) occurrence was detected in finishing pigs of EC countries origin (23%) than in pigs of local farms (8%). Salmonella was also detected in 3.7% of environmental samples. The most prevalent serovar was S. Anatum, followed by S. Rissen, S. Derby, and monophasic S. Typhimurium. Resistance to at least 3 antimicrobial was observed in 97.1% of strains and 7 different patterns of multiple resistance were identified. The most common resistance was detected against sulphonamide compounds. A strict slaughterhouse application of hygiene standards is essential to control the risk of Salmonella contamination.
Aberrant expressions of endometrial Id3 and CTLA‐4 are associated with unexplained repeated implantation failure and recurrent miscarriage
Authors: Ding Jin‐Li , Diao Liang‐Hui , Yin Tai‐Lang , Huang Chun‐Yu , Yin Biao , Chen Cong , Zhang Yi , Li Jie , Cheng Yan‐Xiang , Zeng Yong , Yang Jing
Published: February 2017

Inhibitor of DNA‐binding protein 3 (Id3) is required for tumor angiogenesis and regulatory T‐cell generation. However, the involvement of Id3 in unexplained repeated implantation failure (RIF) and recurrent miscarriage (RM) remains poorly understood. Immunohistochemistry was used to identify Id3, CD34, CTLA‐4, and FOXP3 in the endometrium taken from the women with RIF (n=16), RM (n=16) and matched controls (n=8). The images were acquired and analyzed by the Vectra® automated quantitative pathology imaging system. Percentage of Id3+ cells was significantly higher in the endometrium of women with RIF and RM compared with controls. The numbers of Id3+ and CD34+ vessels in the endometrium were positively correlated in control but not in RIF or RM. Percentages of CTLA‐4+ cells, but not FOXP3+ cells, were significantly increased in the endometrium of RIF and RM women than those in controls. We found aberrant expressions of endometrial Id3 and CTLA‐4 in peri‐implantation endometrium of women with RIF and RM, suggesting the negative roles of these angiogenesis and immune tolerance markers involving in regulating endometrium receptivity.
Randomised clinical trial: the efficacy and safety of oltipraz, a liver X receptor alpha‐inhibitory dithiolethione in patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Kim W. , Kim B. G. , Lee J. S. , Lee C. K. , Yeon J. E. , Chang M. S. , Kim J. H. , Kim H. , Yi S. , Lee J. , Cho J.‐Y. , Kim S. G. , Lee J.‐H. , Kim Y. J.
Published: February 2017

Background

Oltipraz is a synthetic dithiolethione with an antisteatotic effect by inhibiting the activity of liver X receptor alpha (LXR‐α). Recent studies demonstrated the disruptive role of oltipraz on LXR‐α‐dependent lipogenesis in hepatocytes and a high‐fat diet mouse model.

Aim

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of oltipraz for reducing liver fat in subjects with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Methods

We performed a multicentre, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, phase II study. Subjects with a liver fat >20% and hypertransaminasemia were randomised to the three groups: placebo (n = 22), 30 mg of oltipraz (n = 22) or 60 mg of oltipraz (n = 24) twice daily for 24 weeks. Changes in the liver fat from baseline to 24 weeks quantified using magnetic resonance spectroscopy were the primary outcome.

Results

Compared with the placebo group (−3.2 ± 11.1%), absolute changes in the liver fat content increased in a dose‐dependent manner: −7.7 ± 7.0% and −13.9 ± 10.7% for the low‐dose and high‐dose groups (P = 0.13 and P < 0.01). Per cent reduction in the liver fat content was also significantly greater in the high‐dose group than in the placebo group (−34.6 ± 29.4% vs. −0.6 ± 62.9%, P = 0.046). Body mass indices (−1.0 ± 0.9% vs. −0.5 ± 1.4%, P = 0.04) significantly decreased in the high‐dose group compared to the placebo group. However, absolute changes in insulin resistance, liver enzymes, lipids and cytokines were not significantly different among groups. The incidence of adverse events was comparable among groups.

Conclusions

Twenty‐four‐week oltipraz treatment significantly reduced the liver fat content in patients with NAFLD. Clinicaltrials.gov (NCT01373554).
Revising Ellenberg's indicator values for continentality based on global vascular plant species distribution
Authors: Berg Christian , Welk Erik , Jäger Eckehart J.
Published: February 2017

Questions

Misunderstandings and methodological inconsistencies have hampered the applicability of Ellenberg's biogeographic indicator values for continentality. To redefine the indicator values we focused on the following questions: (1) what is meant by phytogeographic continentality as the basic principle behind Ellenberg's indicator values for continentality; (2) can we redefine the continentality indicator values based on an assessment protocol rendering the values more reproducible; and (3) what are the differences between Ellenberg's indicator values for continentality and the redefined ones as a statistical data set, and in application?

Location

Northern Hemisphere, Central Europe.

Methods

Biogeographic indicator values are based on global species distribution data. Species’ distribution information is converted to standardized range formulas that combine information on occurrence across floristic zones, altitudinal preferences and the distribution within the oceanity–continentality gradient. Improved and revised range formulas are converted to new indicator values for continentality (C‐value) using simple algorithms.

Results

New indicator values for continentality (C‐values) and amplitudes for 2984 taxa of Central European vascular plants are presented. The main improvement is the application of a comprehensible assessment protocol. The new C‐value gained a more balanced frequency distribution, rendering it more useful for broad‐scale biogeographic analysis.

Conclusions

For the first time, biogeographic indicator values derived with a consistent method that is based on distribution data are presented. Occurrence information and vegetation data are becoming increasingly available globally, while changing climatic conditions inevitably accelerate species range dynamics, and therefore the application of biogeographic indicator values will increase.
Gateway reflexes: A new paradigm of neuroimmune interactions
Authors: Ohki Takuto , Kamimura Daisuke , Arima Yasunobu , Murakami Masaaki
Published: February 2017

The immune system is affected considerably by the physical environment. The molecular mechanisms that regulate this connection are not well understood. Because neural activities sense the environment, it has been hypothesized that neural signals transduce environmental stimulations into immune responses. Recently, we discovered that regional neural activations change the dynamics of immune cell migration through the activity of endothelial cells by using a multiple sclerosis model, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. More specifically, we identified the dorsal vessels of the fifth lumbar (L5) spinal cord as the initial entry site of pathogenic T cells. This entry site was defined by the activation of sensory neurons innervating from the soleus muscles, which are the main antigravity muscles. The resulting sensory neural activation created a gateway through the activation of regional sympathetic pathways to increase the expression of chemokines at the dorsal vessels of the L5 spinal cord, attracting autoreactive pathogenic T cells. In other experiments, we activated different regional neurons by electric pulses or pain sensation and discovered that gateways for immune cells, including autoreactive pathogenic T cells, are dependent on the site of the regional neural activation, particularly the sensory–sympathetic crosstalk. We termed these neuroimmune interactions as “gateway reflexes.” In the present review, we discuss details of the gateway reflex.
When and how disease‐modifying drugs for multiple sclerosis should be changed in daily practice
Authors: Shimizu Yuko , Ikeguchi Ryotaro , Kitagawa Kazuo
Published: February 2017

In Japan, four classes and five kinds of disease‐modifying drugs (DMD), such as interferon‐beta (IFNβ1a and IFNβ1b), glatiramer acetate, fingolimod and natalizumab, are approved as curative treatments for multiple sclerosis. There are advantages and disadvantages of each of these DMD, and treatment guidelines for escalation and induction therapy have yet to be established. Escalation therapy starts with a first‐line DMD, and when the first‐line DMD does not provide optimal efficacy, therapy involves a step‐up to a second DMD. Induction therapy supports the early use of a highly effective second DMD for the purpose of long‐term maintenance treatment. The DMD can be separated by their treatment efficacy and long‐term safety. Because of their demonstrated long‐term safety and efficacy, the drugs of choice are first‐line DMD (IFNβ and glatiramer acetate). In addition, their long‐term administration has not been associated with malignancies, opportunistic infections, secondary immune disease or fetal toxicity. Though fingolimod and natalizumab have been shown to have high efficacy, their long‐term safety has not been established; thus, they are used as second‐line therapies. The physician sometimes has to consider switching DMD when treating multiple sclerosis patients. The reasons for changing treatment are lack of efficacy, intolerability, adverse effects, cost, pregnancy, incorrect diagnosis and disease stability. The present review provides a general introduction to the most recent findings to help practitioners determine when and how DMD treatment should be changed for multiple sclerosis.
Endangered Species, Ecosystem Integrity, and Human Livelihoods
Authors: Aburto‐Oropeza Octavio , López‐Sagástegui Catalina , Moreno‐Báez Marcia , Mascareñas‐Osorio Ismael , Jiménez‐Esquivel Victoria , Johnson Andrew Frederick , Erisman Brad
Published: February 2017

If efforts to conserve endangered species lack long‐term visions and neglect the human dimensions, conservation success will be questionable. Exclusion of stakeholders in decisions can lead to mistrust and polarization of groups. The story of the vaquita marina (Phocoena sinus) in the Upper Gulf of California provides a unique opportunity to discuss this paradigm. A proposed gear‐switch in the regional fisheries addresses the bycatch issue that threatens the vaquita but neglects livelihoods, the traditions and heritage of the community, and the ecological integrity of the area, and it increases dependence on fishing subsidies. We estimate that it will cost an additional US $8.5 million (2/3 of the net revenue produced by gillnets and 30% more in fuel consumption) if local revenues are to be maintained at pregear‐switch levels. Additionally, suggested new trawl gears caught 2.7 times more unusable (therefore discarded) bycatch than gillnets, which included invertebrates and small juvenile fishes of economically valuable and endangered species. Our results show that the proposed gear switch intervention can be considered another “quick‐fix” intervention in the history of the vaquita conservation agenda that urgently needs long‐term goals that adequately incorporate ecological, economic, and human well‐being.
Children remember words from ignorant speakers but do not attach meaning: evidence from event‐related potentials
Authors: Mangardich Haykaz , Sabbagh Mark A.
Published: February 2017

Although we know much about the conditions under which children demonstrate selective social learning, we have a limited understanding of the cognitive mechanisms by which children's selectivity manifests. Here, we report findings from a brain electrophysiological (ERP) study designed to determine the extent to which words presented by ignorant speakers were later both familiar to children and associated with semantic meaning. Forty‐eight children (mean age = 6.5 years) first experienced novel word training from either a knowledgeable or an ignorant speaker. Children's ERPs were subsequently recorded as they heard a recording of the speaker using the novel word, followed by a picture of either the object the word was paired with during training (congruent) or a distractor object that was also present during training (incongruent). Children trained by a knowledgeable speaker showed both N200 and N400 effects to the incongruent word–referent pairings, thereby suggesting that the novel words were both familiar and bore a semantic association. In contrast, children trained by an ignorant speaker demonstrated only the N200 effect, thereby suggesting that the word–referent links were familiar, but not associated with semantic meaning. These findings provide evidence that selective word learning involves the disruption of processes specifically associated with semantic consolidation of word learning events.
Single‐subject research designs in pediatric rehabilitation: a valuable step towards knowledge translation
Authors: Romeiser‐Logan Lynne , Slaughter Rebecca , Hickman Robbin
Published: February 2017

Knowledge translation may be particularly challenging in pediatric rehabilitation, where study findings are often ambiguous owing to low statistical power or inconsistent responses to intervention. Disconnection between research protocols and clinical practicality, as well as variability of responsiveness in heterogeneous pediatric populations, may further impede integration of research findings into everyday practice. Use of single‐subject research designs (SSRDs) may bridge the gap between research and practice, with robust design options that better identify and preserve patterns of responsiveness to specific interventions and offer protocols that are more readily implemented in practice settings than can be done in traditional randomized controlled trials. This review defines SSRD, provides examples of research questions that can be answered using SSRD, details the experimental designs that can be used and the level of evidence of each design, and describes statistical analysis approaches and clinical application. This analysis will aid researchers, reviewers, clinicians, and others in better understanding SSRD methodology and its application in everyday practice.
Effectiveness of group‐based self‐management education for individuals with Type 2 diabetes: a systematic review with meta‐analyses and meta‐regression
Authors: Odgers‐Jewell K. , Ball L. E. , Kelly J. T. , Isenring E. A. , Reidlinger D. P. , Thomas R.
Published: February 2017

Aims

Patient education for the management of Type 2 diabetes can be delivered in various forms, with the goal of promoting and supporting positive self‐management behaviours. This systematic review aimed to determine the effectiveness of group‐based interventions compared with individual interventions or usual care for improving clinical, lifestyle and psychosocial outcomes in people with Type 2 diabetes.

Methods

Six electronic databases were searched. Group‐based education programmes for adults with Type 2 diabetes that measured glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) and followed participants for ≥ 6 months were included. The primary outcome was HbA1c, and secondary outcomes included fasting blood glucose, weight, body mass index, waist circumference, blood pressure, blood lipid profiles, diabetes knowledge and self‐efficacy.

Results

Fifty‐three publications describing 47 studies were included (n = 8533 participants). Greater reductions in HbA1c occurred in group‐based education compared with controls at 6–10 months [n = 30 studies; mean difference (MD) = 3 mmol/mol (0.3%); 95% confidence interval (CI): −0.48, −0.15; P = 0.0002], 12–14 months [n = 27 studies; MD = 4 mmol/mol (0.3%); 95% CI: −0.49, −0.17; P < 0.0001], 18 months [n = 3 studies; MD = 8 mmol/mol (0.7%); 95% CI: −1.26, −0.18; P = 0.009] and 36–48 months [n = 5 studies; MD = 10 mmol/mol (0.9%); 95% CI: −1.52, −0.34; P = 0.002], but not at 24 months. Outcomes also favoured group‐based education for fasting blood glucose, body weight, waist circumference, triglyceride levels and diabetes knowledge, but not at all time points. Interventions facilitated by a single discipline, multidisciplinary teams or health professionals with peer supporters resulted in improved outcomes in HbA1c when compared with peer‐led interventions.

Conclusions

Group‐based education interventions are more effective than usual care, waiting list control and individual education at improving clinical, lifestyle and psychosocial outcomes in people with Type 2 diabetes.
Care of women with diabetes before, during and after pregnancy: time for a new approach?
Authors: Egan A. M. , Carmody L. , Kirwan B. , Dunne F. P. ,   the Atlantic DIP Collaborators
Published: February 2017

Aims

This study assesses the impact of pregnancy and pre‐pregnancy care on longer‐term treatment goals in women with diabetes.

Methods

This retrospective study included women with Type 1 (n = 247) and Type 2 diabetes (n = 137) who were evaluated before, during and after pregnancy.

Results

Among women with Type 1 diabetes, average HbA1c at 12 months post‐partum was similar to the preconception level [63 vs. 64 mmol/mol (7.9% vs. 8.0%), P = 0.60]. This was also the case for women with Type 2 diabetes [52 vs. 52 mmol/mol (6.9% vs. 6.9%), P = 0.79]. At 12 months post‐partum, there was no improvement in other measures of diabetes control and one in five women are lost to follow‐up from clinical care. In total, 44.9% of women with Type 1 diabetes and 27.7% of those with Type 2 diabetes attended pre‐pregnancy care. Attendees maintained superior glycaemic control throughout the study and were more likely to be receiving specialist care post‐partum.

Conclusions

These findings identify a need to change our approach to the reproductive care of women with diabetes. In particular, efforts should be made to ensure all women have access to and attend pre‐pregnancy care, and barriers to engagement with post‐partum care should be addressed.
Exploring the Phenomena of Online Dating Platforms Versus Saudi Traditional Spouse Courtship in the 21st Century
Authors: Naji Bajnaid Ayman , Elyas Tariq
Published: February 2017

While traditional Saudi Arabian courtship is rigidly structured according to a set of Islamic codes of conduct, over the past decade, Saudis have increasingly turned to unconventional means of finding and courting a potential spouse: matrimonial Web sites. This research explores the debate in the literature on computer meditated communication regarding whether online settings provide rich information about other users, as they show that online interactions can provide more information about the opposite sex for users who belong to gender‐segregated societies than they can get through their offline lives. The article will shed some light on the interplay between young generations and their obsessions with the world of Internet dating and the societal norms and social conducts with which they are comfortable while living in Saudi Arabia. The article may contribute to the online dating literature by showing the similarities and differences between conservative, Islamic Saudi users and Western users when using Web sites to search for a potential mate. The research shows the power of both social and religious norms in affecting these users’ behaviors and decisions when using matrimonial Web sites.
IMMIGRATION, SKILL HETEROGENEITY, AND QUALIFICATION MISMATCH
Authors: Liu Xiangbo , Palivos Theodore , Zhang Xiaomeng
Published: February 2017

We investigate the effects of U.S. immigration in a comprehensive search and matching framework that allows for skill heterogeneity, imperfect substitutability between skilled and unskilled inputs, different search cost between natives and immigrants, cross‐skill matching, and imperfect transferability of foreign human capital. When we simulate the effects of the U.S. immigration that took place between the years 2000 and 2009, we find that both skilled and unskilled natives, as well as skilled and unskilled immigrants, gain in terms of income and employment. We also investigate the effects of an improvement in the transferability of human capital across borders and find that, although it has some redistributive effects, overall it benefits both immigrants and natives. (JEL F22, J61, J64)
Out on a limb: bandicoot limb co‐variation suggests complex impacts of development and adaptation on marsupial forelimb evolution
Authors: Garland Kathleen , Marcy Ariel , Sherratt Emma , Weisbecker Vera
Published: February 2017

Marsupials display far less forelimb diversity than placentals, possibly because of the laborious forelimb‐powered climb to the pouch performed by most marsupial neonates. This is thought to result in stronger morphological integration (i.e., higher co‐variance) within the marsupial forelimb skeleton, and lower integration between marsupial fore‐ and hind limbs, compared to other mammals. Possible mechanisms for this constraint are a fundamental developmental change in marsupial limb patterning, or alternatively more immediate perinatal biomechanical and metabolic requirements. In the latter case, peramelid marsupials (bandicoots), which have neonates that climb very little, should show lower within‐limb and higher between‐limb integration, compared to other marsupials. We tested this in four peramelid species and the related bilby, using partial correlation analyses of between‐landmark linear measurements of limb bones, and Procrustes‐based two‐block partial least‐squares analysis (2B‐PLS) of limb bone shapes using the same landmarks. We find extensive between‐limb integration in partial correlation analyses of only bone lengths, consistent with a reduction of a short‐term biomechanical/allocation constraint in peramelid forelimbs. However, partial correlations of bone proportions and 2B‐PLS reveal extensive shape divergence between correlated bone pairs. This result contradicts expectations of developmental constraints or serial homology, instead suggesting a function‐driven integration pattern. Comparing visualizations from cross‐species principal components analysis and 2B‐PLS, we tentatively identify selection for digging and half‐bounding as the main driver of bandicoot limb integration patterning. This calls for further assessments of functional versus developmental limb integration in marsupials with a more strenuous neonatal climb to the pouch.
The control of eye movements by the cerebellar nuclei: polysynaptic projections from the fastigial, interpositus posterior and dentate nuclei to lateral rectus motoneurons in primates
Authors: Prevosto Vincent , Graf Werner , Ugolini Gabriella
Published: February 2017

Premotor circuits driving extraocular motoneurons and downstream motor outputs of cerebellar nuclei are well known. However, there is, as yet, no unequivocal account of cerebellar output pathways controlling eye movements in primates. Using retrograde transneuronal transfer of rabies virus from the lateral rectus (LR) eye muscle, we studied polysynaptic pathways to LR motoneurons in primates. Injections were placed either into the central or distal muscle portion, to identify innervation differences of LR motoneurons supplying singly innervated (SIFs) or multiply innervated muscle fibers (MIFs). We found that SIF motoneurons receive major cerebellar ‘output channels’ bilaterally, while oligosynaptic cerebellar innervation of MIF motoneurons is negligible and/or more indirect. Inputs originate from the fastigial nuclei di‐ and trisynaptically, and from a circumscribed rostral portion of the ventrolateral interpositus posterior and from the caudal pole of the dentate nuclei trisynaptically. While disynaptic cerebellar inputs to LR motoneurons stem exclusively from the caudal fastigial region involved in saccades, pursuit and convergence (via its projections to brainstem oculomotor populations), minor trisynaptic inputs from the rostral fastigial nucleus, which contributes to gaze shifts, may reflect access to vestibular and reticular eye‐head control pathways. Trisynaptic inputs to LR motoneurons from the rostral ventrolateral interpositus posterior, involved in divergence (far‐response), is likely mediated by projections to the supraoculomotor area, contributing to LR motoneuron activation during divergence. Trisynaptic inputs to LR motoneurons from the caudal dentate, which also innervates disynaptically the frontal and parietal eye fields, can be explained by its superior colliculus projections, and likely target saccade‐related burst neurons.
Object‐Dependent Thought Without Illusion
Authors: Aasen Solveig
Published: February 2017

When unknowingly experiencing a perceptual hallucination, a subject can attempt to think specifically about what is, as far as he or she can tell, the perceived object. Is the subject then deceived about his or her cognitive situation? I answer negatively. Moreover, I argue that this answer is compatible with holding that thought specifically about a certain object – singular thought – is object‐dependent. By contrast, both critics and advocates of the view that singular thought is object‐dependent have assumed this view to be committed to postulation of illusions of object‐dependent thought in cases like that mentioned. The core ingredient in my illusion‐free version of the view is a special form of disjunctivism. Alleged cases of illusion are not considered parasitic on ‘the good case’ where the object thought about is perceived.
Treatment of experimental status epilepticus with synergistic drug combinations
Authors: Niquet Jerome , Baldwin Roger , Suchomelova Lucie , Lumley Lucille , Eavey Roland , Wasterlain Claude G.
Published: February 2017

During status epilepticus (SE), synaptic γ‐aminobutyric acid A receptors (GABAARs) become internalized and inactive, whereas spare N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate receptors (NMDARs) assemble, move to the membrane, and become synaptically active. When treatment of SE is delayed, the number of synaptic GABAARs is drastically reduced, and a GABAA agonist cannot fully restore inhibition. We used a combination of low‐dose diazepam (to stimulate the remaining GABAARs), ketamine (to mitigate the effect of the NMDAR increase), and valproate (to enhance inhibition at a nonbenzodiazepine site) to treat seizures in a model of severe cholinergic SE. High doses of diazepam failed to stop electrographic SE, showing that benzodiazepine pharmacoresistance had developed. The diazepam‐ketamine‐valproate combination was far more effective in stopping SE than triple‐dose monotherapy using the same individual drugs. Isobolograms showed that this drug combination's therapeutic actions were synergistic, with positive cooperativity between drugs, whereas drug toxicity was simply additive, without positive or negative cooperativity. As a result, the therapeutic index was improved by this drug combination compared to monotherapy. These results suggest that synergistic drug combinations that target receptor changes can control benzodiazepine‐refractory SE.
The effects of C5aR1 on leukocyte infiltration following pilocarpine‐induced status epilepticus
Authors: Benson Melissa J. , Manzanero Silvia , Borges Karin
Published: February 2017

This study aimed to determine the role C5aR1 plays in mediating immune responses acutely after pilocarpine‐induced status epilepticus (SE), specifically those of brain‐infiltrating leukocytes. Three days following pilocarpine SE, we determined by flow cytometry the brain immune cell phenotypes and measured key proinflammatory and antiinflammatory cytokine expression by infiltrating leukocytes and microglia in C5aR1‐deficient and wild‐type mice. Absence of C5aR1 reduced by 47% the numbers of Ly6G+ neutrophils in the brains of No‐SE mice and decreased neutrophil entry after SE to levels found in wild‐type brains that did not undergo SE (No‐SE). Moreover, C5aR1‐deficient mice showed increased interleukin (IL)‐4 expression in infiltrating leukocytes, but not in microglia. Increases in IL‐4 expression in infiltrating leukocytes coupled with decreased neutrophil invasion in C5aR1‐deficient mice after SE is likely to contribute to the reduced neuronal loss previously found in these mice compared to their wild‐type littermates. Although other SE models need to be investigated to substantiate our findings, this study provides further evidence that C5aR1 is an inflammatory mediator and may play a role in epileptogenesis.
First report of Eulachnus tuberculostemmatus (Theobald, 1915) on Pinus nigra subsp. mauretanica stands in Algeria
Authors: Hedjam H. , Marniche F. , Doumandji S.‐E. , Contarini M. , Paparatti B. , Speranza S. , Krouchi F. , Derridj A.
Published: February 2017

Pinus nigra (black pine) is a Mediterranean taxonomic complex (including different subspecies), with a discontinuous distribution. The southernmost part of its range is in North Africa, in Morocco and Algeria, where it is present as P. nigra subsp. mauretanica. Currently, an extremely limited number of trees of this subspecies still persist within its natural range, giving this taxon an outstanding ecological importance. These residual stands are threatened by many biotic and abiotic factors, putting at risk the survival of this subspecies in its natural habitat. This paper reports for the first time the presence of Eulachnus tuberculostemmatus (Hemiptera: Aphididae: Lachninae) in Algeria, and its infestation on P. nigra subsp. mauretanica. This insect was detected in three sites of the Djurdjura National Park in May 2012 and identified in February 2016. The aphid seems to be responsible for needle discoloration and premature senescence, symptoms observed since spring 2008 on the infested pines. These clusters of P. nigra subsp. mauretanica trees are protected by park regulations, and given their conservation status further investigations into this pest species, and other biotic and abiotic factors that may threaten this important tree, are required.
Communicating risk: variability of interpreting qualitative terms
Authors: MacLeod A. , Pietravalle S.
Published: February 2017

A survey to examine how verbal expressions of probability and magnitude are interpreted was conducted at an international workshop on plant pest risk analysis. Participants were asked to score words and phrases on a scale of 0 to 100 giving minimum and maximum scores. Using hierarchical clustering, expressions describing probability were categorized into three clusters. One homogeneous cluster describes likely probabilities, a second describes unlikely probabilities and a third heterogeneous group contained words that express great uncertainty rather than committing to describe events as likely or unlikely. Hierarchical clustering was also used to group expressions of magnitude into three broad clusters that basically describe small, medium and large. Qualitative risk assessment protocols that prescribe words to represent probabilities and magnitudes should take into account how widely the words can be interpreted. It is suggested that linking verbal probability terms to specific quantitative probabilities would increase transparency and improve risk communication and risk management decision making.
Renal function affects hippocampal volume and cognition: The role of vascular burden and amyloid deposition
Authors: An Hoyoung , Choi Booyeol , Son Sang Joon , Cho Eun Young , Kim Seon‐Ok , Cho Sooyun , Kang Duk‐Hee , Lee Chul , Kim Seong Yoon ,   for the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: February 2017

Aim

We determined if differences in renal function, even within normal levels, influenced hippocampal volume (HCV) and cognition.

Methods

Cognitively normal (CN) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) subjects with eGFR ≥ 60 ml/min/1.73m2 were selected from the ADNI database (N = 1,269) and divided into three groups (eGFR 60–75, 75–90 and ≥90). Associations between eGFR, HCV and cognition scores were examined using regression methods, and random‐coefficient models. The relationship between various factors, such as vascular burden and brain amyloid deposition, were investigated using path analysis.

Results

Higher eGFR was associated with larger HCVs and better cognition in all subjects at baseline. In MCI subjects, hippocampal atrophy in the eGFR ≥ 90 group progressed at just half the rate of the eGFR 75–90 group (P = .006), and was also somewhat slower than the eGFR 60–75 group (P = .08). A comprehensive path model linking eGFR, HCV and cognition, and integrating vascular burden and amyloid deposition, is proposed.

Conclusions

Higher renal function was associated with slower hippocampal atrophy and cognitive decline even within normal levels of renal function. This relationship was mediated mainly through cardiovascular risk burden and amyloid deposition. Further studies examining neuroinflammation are needed. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2017; 17: 1899–1906.