bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stable isotopes reveal differences in diet among reed bunting subspecies that vary in bill size
Authors: Neto Júlio Manuel , de Oliveira Gordinho Luís , Vollot Benjamin , Marín Marcial , Monrós Juan S. , Newton Jason
Published: June 2016

Reed bunting Emberiza schoeniclus subspecies vary considerably in bill size and shape and seem to be at an early stage of speciation, in which bill might be indirectly causing reproductive isolation. Hence, we evaluated whether bill size, as well as age and sex, are associated with foraging niche in three west European subspecies of reed bunting: the thin‐billed schoeniclus, the intermediate‐billed lusitanica and the thick‐billed witherbyi. Blood sampling was undertaken at three sites in southwest Europe during the winter (when these subspecies co‐occur), and stable isotope analyses (carbon and nitrogen) were performed to assess their foraging niches. Stable isotope analyses of potential food items confirmed uniform baseline isotopic composition among sites. schoeniclus showed a significantly broader isotopic niche than lusitanica and witherbyi, which seemed otherwise similar despite the fact that witherbyi is more divergent in bill traits. Stable isotope ratios were consistent with the latter two subspecies feeding on C3‐plant‐feeding insects, whereas schoeniclus diet also included C4 plant material. Despite its lower sexual dimorphism, sex and age differences were found only in schoeniclus, but these differences vary between locations in a complex manner. Our results suggest that bill size and shape differentiated between northern, migratory and southern, resident subspecies as a consequence of natural selection through competition during the winter, which is now reflected in isotopic niche divergence between subspecies. The potential roles of sexual selection, reed thickness and summer temperature on the difference in bill size (and greater sexual dimorphism) between lusitanica and witherbyi are discussed.
Amazon forest dynamics under changing abiotic conditions in the early Miocene (Colombian Amazonia)
Authors: Salamanca Villegas Sonia , van Soelen Els E. , Teunissen van Manen Milan L. , Flantua Suzette G. A. , Santos Roberto Ventura , Roddaz Martin , Dantas Elton Luiz , van Loon Emiel , Sinninghe Damsté Jaap S. , Kim Jung‐Hyun , Hoorn Carina
Published: June 2016

Aim

We analysed in detail a past marine incursion event in north‐western Amazonia and measured its effect on the forest composition. We also determined the sediment provenance in the fluvio‐estuarine system and reconstructed the overall floral composition of the Amazon lowland forest during the Miocene climatic optimum.

Location

A 60‐m‐thick sedimentary succession situated along the Caquetá River in Colombian Amazonia (0.77° S; 71.97° W).

Methods

Palynological, geochemical and statistical analyses were performed on samples from organic‐rich sediments.

Results

The lower section was formed by fluvial floodplain deposits of Andean provenance rich in pollen of Malvacipolloides maristellae (aff. Abutilon) and Rhoipites guianensis (aff. Vasivaea). The middle section was formed by fluvial channel and estuarine swamp deposits of central Venezuelan provenance dominated by pollen of Mauritiidites franciscoi (Mauritia). Towards the top, the swamp deposits represent an estuarine floodplain with aquatic biomarkers, marine palynomorphs and mangrove pollen. The succession ended with fluvial floodplain deposits of central to southern Venezuelan origin with R. guianensis as dominant pollen type. Palynological diversity was high throughout the section with Andean‐ and Venezuelan‐derived sediments each with their characteristic taxa. Tropical rain forest taxa, such as Arecaceae, Fabaceae, Sapotaceae, Malpighiaceae and Bombacoideae, were common in these sediments, although taxa adapted to drier conditions also occurred. We provide a ‘figshare’ link to an image library of selected taxa, as well as the raw counts and processed data.

Main conclusions

The fluvio‐estuarine system was of mixed origin with sediments and palynomorphs from the emerging Andes, but also from an area situated in the modern Orinoco Basin. Marine influence was linked to the Venezuelan source area and thus of indisputable Caribbean origin. Overall, a mixed forest with drought‐resistant components existed in the drainage system during the Miocene climatic optimum. Our data provide a novel insight into the composition of the tropical lowland forest and the environments in north‐western Amazonia prior to the main uplift of the central and northern Andes.
Biogeography of the cosmopolitan sedges (Cyperaceae) and the area‐richness correlation in plants
Authors: Spalink Daniel , Drew Bryan T. , Pace Matthew C. , Zaborsky John G. , Starr Julian R. , Cameron Kenneth M. , Givnish Thomas J. , Sytsma Kenneth J.
Published: June 2016

Aim

Across angiosperm families, the area occupied by a family is strongly correlated with its richness. We explore the causes of this area‐richness correlation using the cosmopolitan family, Cyperaceae Juss., as a model. We test the hypothesis that, despite a proposed tropical origin, temperate lineages in the family diversified at elevated rates. We test the hypothesis that the area‐richness correlation is maintained within intrafamilial clades, and that this relationship could be described as a function of niche space. We also test the hypothesis that the partitioning of geographical and ecological space, not the extent of this space, is the factor most closely associated with clade richness.

Location

Cosmopolitan.

Methods

We use molecular data from four genes sequenced in 384 taxa to develop a chronogram of Cyperaceae. We then develop a model of ancestral ranges and measure rates of diversification throughout the history of the family. Integrating data from over 4,800,000 digitized herbarium records, we characterize the range and niche of more than 4500 species and test for correlations of the species richness maintained within clades with range size, range partitioning, range overlap, niche, clade age and rate of diversification.

Results

Cyperaceae originated in South America in the late Cretaceous and subsequently dispersed throughout the globe. Of three increases in diversification rate, two occurred in the temperate Northern Hemisphere. The variable most closely associated with clade richness is the partitioning of geographical space by species within each clade.

Main conclusions

We show that species‐rich clades in Cyperaceae are not only more widespread, occupy more niche space, and diversify more quickly, but also exhibit patterns that are consistent with the partitioning of geographical and ecological space as a major correlate to diversification.
Microwave‐Assisted Extraction of Phenolic Acids and Flavonoids from Physalis angulata
Authors: Carniel Naira , Dallago Rogério M. , Dariva Claudio , Bender João Paulo , Nunes Anderson L. , Zanella Odivan , Bilibio Denise , Luiz Priamo Wagner
Published: June 2016

In this work, microwave‐assisted extraction (MAE) technique was developed for the extraction of total polyphenols from Physalis angulata. Several parameters of the MAE procedure (ethanol concentration, irradiation power, extraction time and liquid‐to‐solid ratio) were assessed through an experimental Box‐Behnken design (four variables and three levels). Results indicated a variation from 3.74 to 0.03 mg GAE/g of extract (total polyphenol), 7.77 to 0.5 mg/L (gallic acid), 0.55 to 0.27 mg/L (ellagic acid), 0.26 to 0.02 mg/L (caffeic acid), 0.86 to 0.25 mg/L (rutin) and 2.43 to 0.89 mg/L (mangiferin), and different effects were observed depending on the compounds. In summary, MAE may be used as a suitable approach for the selective extraction of total polyphenols from Physalis angulata.

Practical Applications

Microwave‐assisted extraction (MAE) is a potential technique to obtain total phenolic compounds from vegetable sources. This approach increases the yields and reduces the extraction time and the consumption of solvent compared with traditional extraction methods. Extract from Physalis angulata shows high polyphenol content and ethnopharmacological value which may be applied as preservative (in food industry) or due to its biological properties (antioxidant, antipyretic, analgesic and anti‐inflammatory).
Implementing Geriatric Resources for Assessment and Care of Elders Team Care in a Veterans Affairs Medical Center: Lessons Learned and Effects Observed
Authors: Schubert Cathy C. , Myers Laura J. , Allen Katie , Counsell Steven R.
Published: June 2016

In a randomized clinical trial, Geriatric Resources for Assessment and Care of Elders (GRACE), a model of care that works in collaboration with primary care providers (PCPs) and patient‐centered medical homes to provide home‐based geriatric care management focusing on geriatric syndromes and psychosocial problems commonly found in older adults, improved care quality and reduced acute care use for high‐risk, low‐income older adults. To assess the effect of GRACE at a Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center (VAMC), veterans aged 65 and older from Marion County, Indiana, with PCPs from four of five VAMC clinics who were not on hospice or dialysis were enrolled in GRACE after discharge home from an acute hospitalization. After an initial home‐based transition visit to GRACE enrollees, the GRACE team returned to conduct a geriatric assessment. Guided by 12 protocols and input from an interdisciplinary panel and the PCP, the GRACE team developed and implemented a veteran‐centric care plan. Hospitalized veterans from the fifth clinic, who otherwise met enrollment criteria, served as a usual‐care comparison group. Demographic, comorbidity, and usage data were drawn from VA databases. The GRACE and comparison groups were similar in age, sex, and burden of comorbidity, although predicted risk of 1‐year mortality in GRACE veterans was higher. Even so, GRACE enrollment was associated with 7.1% fewer emergency department visits, 14.8% fewer 30‐day readmissions, 37.9% fewer hospital admissions, and 28.5% fewer total bed days of care, saving the VAMC an estimated $200,000 per year after program costs during the study for the 179 veterans enrolled in GRACE. Having engaged, enthusiastic VA leadership and GRACE staff; aligning closely with the medical home; and accommodating patient acuity were among the important lessons learned during implementation.
Cognitive Dysfunction, Medication Management, and the Risk of Readmission in Hospital Inpatients
Authors: Anderson Ryan E. , Birge Stanley J.
Published: June 2016

Objectives

To determine whether cognitive dysfunction, in particular impaired executive function, may be a risk factor for early readmission in older adults independently managing their medications.

Design

Prospective observational study.

Setting

Tertiary hospital.

Participants

Individuals aged 65 years and older discharged to home from the medicine service of a tertiary hospital (N = 452).

Measurements

Participants underwent a cognitive assessment including the Short Blessed Test (SBT), the executive function component of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, and the Trail‐Making Test Part B (TMT‐B). Hospital use and demographic data were obtained. A logistic regression model was used to fit the likelihood of readmission on the basis of participant characteristics, medication management, and cognitive performance. Likelihood of hospital readmission within 30 days was determined.

Results

For participants managing medications themselves, adjusted 30‐day odds of readmission increased 13% on average with each point decrease in SBT score (P = .003) and 9% on average with each 0.01 decrease in TMT‐B score (P = .02). For participants who were independent in medication management with more than seven medications, the odds of 30‐day readmission increased 16% on average with each point decrease in SBT score (P = .01) and 15% on average with each 0.01 decrease in TMT‐B score (P = .03).

Conclusion

Cognitive dysfunction, particularly executive dysfunction, is a risk factor for readmission in individuals managing their own medications. This risk is greater in individuals taking more than seven medications. The interaction of cognitive function, medication management, and number of medications may enhance risk‐stratification efforts to identify individuals at risk of early readmission.
Does Polypharmacy in Nursing Homes Affect Long‐Term Mortality?
Authors: Schlesinger Agata , Weiss Avraham , Nenaydenko Olga , Adunsky Abraham , Beloosesky Yichayaou
Published: June 2016

Objectives

To investigate the association between polypharmacy and mortality in nursing home (NH) residents.

Design

Prospective observational cohort study.

Settings

Six NHs in central Israel.

Participants

Mobile with dementia and fully dependent residents (N = 764; n = 558 (73%) fully dependent, n = 206 (27%) mobile residents with dementia requiring institutional care; mean age 82.2 ± 5.9).

Measurements

Two‐year mortality and its association with number of drugs that individual residents were taking at baseline, controlled for multiple confounders.

Results

At baseline, 268 residents were taking five or fewer drugs per day, 202 were taking six or seven, and 294 were taking eight or more. In the multivariate analysis, the likelihood of dying within 2 years in the group taking six or seven drugs per day (odds ratio (OR = 0.95, 95% CI = 0.63–1.43) and in those taking eight or more (OR = 1.20, 95% CI = 0.78–1.84) was similar to that of those taking five or fewer. Variables at baseline independently associated with greater mortality were male sex (OR = 1.75, 95% CI = 1.24–2.46), older age (OR = 1.07, 95% CI = 1.04–1.10), higher Charlson Comorbidity Index (OR = 1.17, 95% CI = 1.04–1.30), and taking anticoagulant (OR = 1.78, 95% CI = 1.01–3.13) or antihyperglycemic medication (OR = 1.69, 95% CI = 1.12–2.53). Variables at baseline independently associated with lower mortality were higher body mass index (OR = 0.99, 95% CI = 0.93–0.99) and taking lipid‐lowering medication (OR = 0.54, 95% CI = 0.36–0.80) and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or serotonin–norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (OR = 0.52, 95% CI = 0.37–0.75).

Conclusion

Polypharmacy, defined quantitatively according to number of drugs, was not associated with mortality in these NH residents.
Pain experiences of men and women after cardiac surgery
Authors: Bjørnnes Ann Kristin , Parry Monica , Lie Irene , Fagerland Morten Wang , Watt‐Watson Judy , Rustøen Tone , Stubhaug Audun , Leegaard Marit
Published: June 2016

Aims and objectives

To compare the prevalence and severity of pain in men and women during the first year following cardiac surgery and to examine the predictors of persistent postoperative pain 12 months post surgery.

Background

Persistent pain has been documented after cardiac surgery, with limited evidence for differences between men and women.

Design

Prospective cohort study of patients in a randomised controlled trial (N = 416, 23% women) following cardiac surgery.

Methods

Secondary data analysis of data collected prior to surgery, across postoperative days 1–4, at two weeks, and at one, three, six and 12 months post surgery. The main outcome was worst pain intensity (Brief Pain Inventory‐Short Form).

Results

Twenty‐nine percent (97/339) of patients reported persistent postoperative pain at rest at 12 months that was worse in intensity and interference for women than for men. For both sexes, a more severe co‐morbidity profile, lower education and postoperative pain at rest at one month post surgery were associated with an increased probability for persistent postoperative pain at 12 months. Women with more concerns about communicating pain and a lower intake of analgesics in the hospital had an increased probability of pain at 12 months.

Conclusion

Sex differences in pain are present up to one year following cardiac surgery. Strategies for sex‐targeted pain education and management pre‐ and post‐surgery may lead to better pain outcomes.

Relevance to clinical practice

These results suggest that informing patients (particularly women) about the benefits of analgesic use following cardiac surgery may result in less pain over the first year post discharge.
Recognising and responding to ‘cutting corners’ when providing nursing care: a qualitative study
Authors: Jones Angela , Johnstone Megan‐Jane , Duke Maxine
Published: June 2016

Aims and objectives

The aim of this study is to report on a key finding of a larger study investigating the ‘gaps’ in patient care that registered nurses encounter during the course of their practice. A key finding of this larger study was that ‘cutting corners’ was a gap discerned by nurses.

Background

‘Cutting corners’ has been characterised as a ‘violation’ and threat to patient safety, although there is a paucity of research on this issue.

Design

Naturalistic inquiry using a qualitative exploratory descriptive approach.

Methods

Data were collected from a purposeful sample of 71 registered nurses from emergency department, critical care, perioperative, rehabilitation and transitional care and neurosciences settings in Australia and analysed using content and thematic analysis strategies.

Results

Cutting corners was a common practice that encompassed (1) the partial or complete omission of patient care, (2) delays in providing care and (3) the failure to do things correctly. Corners were cut in patient assessment, essential nursing care, the care of central venous catheters and medication administration. The practice of cutting corners was perceived as contributing to preventable adverse events.

Conclusions

The study found that cutting corners created gaps that contributed to unfinished nursing care and preventable adverse events. The findings of the study raise the possibility that cutting corners is a salient but underinvestigated characteristic of nursing practice. Further research and inquiry are needed to deepen understanding of cutting corners and its impact on patient safety.

Relevance to clinical practice

Identifying the nature and implications of cutting corners when providing nursing care is an important contributing factor to improving patient safety and quality care.
The relationship among pressure ulcer risk factors, incidence and nursing documentation in hospital‐acquired pressure ulcer patients in intensive care units
Authors: Li Dan
Published: June 2016

Aims and objectives

To explore the quality/comprehensiveness of nursing documentation of pressure ulcers and to investigate the relationship between the nursing documentation and the incidence of pressure ulcers in four intensive care units.

Background

Pressure ulcer prevention requires consistent assessments and documentation to decrease pressure ulcer incidence. Currently, most research is focused on devices to prevent pressure ulcers. Studies have rarely considered the relationship among pressure ulcer risk factors, incidence and nursing documentation. Thus, a study to investigate this relationship is needed to fill this information gap.

Design

A retrospective, comparative, descriptive, correlational study.

Method

A convenience sample of 196 intensive care units patients at the selected medical centre comprised the study sample. All medical records of patients admitted to intensive care units between the time periods of September 1, 2011 through September 30, 2012 were audited. Data used in the analysis included 98 pressure ulcer patients and 98 non‐pressure ulcer patients. The quality and comprehensiveness of pressure ulcer documentation were measured by the modified European Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel Pressure Ulcers Assessment Instrument and the Comprehensiveness in Nursing Documentation instrument.

Result

The correlations between quality/comprehensiveness of pressure ulcer documentation and incidence of pressure ulcers were not statistically significant. Patients with pressure ulcers had longer length of stay than patients without pressure ulcers stay. There were no statistically significant differences in quality/comprehensiveness scores of pressure ulcer documentation between dayshift and nightshift.

Conclusion

This study revealed a lack of quality/comprehensiveness in nursing documentation of pressure ulcers. This study demonstrates that staff nurses often perform poorly on documenting pressure ulcer appearance, staging and treatment. Moreover, nursing documentation of pressure ulcers does not provide a complete picture of patients’ care needs that require nursing interventions.

Relevance to clinical practice

The implication of this study involves pressure ulcer prevention and litigable risk of nursing documentation.
Effect of Porcelain Shade and Application Time on Shade Reproduction
Authors: Bahannan Salma Ahmed , Awad Mohamed Abdelmageed
Published: June 2016

Purpose

To determine the variability in shade reproduction of metal ceramic restorations fabricated by different laboratory technicians at different fabrication times.

Materials and Methods

One hundred thirty five metal copings for metal ceramic restorations were fabricated with a standardized method and distributed among three dental laboratory technicians (n = 45). Each technician was requested to match three different shade specifications including 2L1.5, 3M2, 4R2.5 shade tabs of 3D Master shade guide following the manufacturer's instructions. The technicians were instructed to build up each shade 15 times using the same porcelain at three time periods namely first thing in the morning (T1), middle of the work day (T2), and at the end of the work day (T3) (n = 5). Color difference (∆E) was determined with a spectrophotometer. Each restoration was measured and recorded nine times. Data were tabulated and statistically analyzed using a univariate general linear model with Scheffe post hoc test, and one‐way ANOVA at 5% level of significance

Results

The color difference (∆E) was significantly different among technicians, time of application, and shade matched. Technician 1 demonstrated good color reproduction for all shades in T1. That was the same as technician 2 for shades 3M2 and 4R2.5, but the lighter shade (2L1.5) was better in T2 and T3. Technician 3 had better results at T3. The lowest mean value of ∆E was calculated with technician 3 while the highest mean value was with technician 2. T2 was associated with higher ∆E values in contrast to the other two times for technicians 1 and 2, while T3 was associated with lower ∆E values for technicians 2 and 3.

Conclusion

Within the limitations of this study, it can be concluded that the shade reproduction is affected by the time of porcelain application. The ability to reproduce the target shade differed among laboratory technicians. No specific time can be considered for all technicians to reproduce the shades with more accuracy.
Innovative Solutions Using Zygoma Implants
Authors: Binon Paul P.
Published: June 2016

The severely resorbed edentulous maxilla presents significant treatment challenges. The introduction of remote implant support using zygoma implants has provided a plethora of treatment possibilities for many patients. This article presents four very different sets of circumstances successfully treated using this protocol.
A Community‐Engaged Approach to Collecting Rural Health Surveillance Data
Authors: Puma Jini E. , Belansky Elaine S. , Garcia Reginaldo , Scarbro Sharon , Williford Devon , Marshall Julie A.
Published: June 2016

Purpose

In order for communities to make health‐related, data‐driven decisions concerning resource allocation, needed services, and intervention priorities, they need an accurate picture of the health status of residents. While state and national health surveillance systems exist to help local communities make data‐driven health decisions, rural communities face unique challenges including: (1) limited county‐level data; (2) underrepresented segments of the population; and (3) a lack of survey items to address local health concerns. The purpose of this study was to take a community‐engaged approach to collecting population‐based health status data in a rural area in an effort to address some of these unique challenges.

Methods

Using a community‐based participatory research (CBPR) approach, over 1,500 residents from 6 rural and frontier counties were randomly selected with a stratified, multistage cluster study design. Surveys were primarily completed over the phone.

Findings

Response rates by county ranged from 59% to 80% (overall = 66%). Males and younger adults (18‐24 year olds) were underrepresented in the sample, but Hispanics, low‐income residents, and cell phone‐only users were adequately represented. Prevalence rates for chronic disease and health behavior varied by county.

Conclusions

The implications of this project are that engaging stakeholders in community surveillance efforts increases the quality, relevance and utility of the information collected and can help reach otherwise difficult‐to‐reach populations. This can result in a more accurate picture of the health status of residents, which can lead to making health‐related, data‐driven decisions concerning resource allocation, needed services, and intervention priorities.
Comparative metabolism of mycophenolic acid by glucuronic acid and glucose conjugation in human, dog, and cat liver microsomes
Authors: Slovak J. E. , Mealey K. , Court M. H.
Published: June 2016

Use of the immunosuppressant mycophenolic acid (MPA) in cats is limited because MPA elimination depends on glucuronidation, which is deficient in cats. We evaluated formation of major (phenol glucuronide) and minor (acyl glucuronide, phenol glucoside, and acyl glucoside) MPA metabolites using liver microsomes from 16 cats, 26 dogs, and 48 humans. All MPA metabolites were formed by human liver microsomes, while dog and cat liver microsomes formed both MPA glucuronides, but only one MPA glucoside (phenol glucoside). Intrinsic clearance (CLint) of MPA for phenol glucuronidation by cat liver microsomes was only 15–17% that of dog and human liver microsomes. However, CLint for acyl glucuronide and phenol glucoside formation in cat liver microsomes was similar to or greater than that for dog and human liver microsomes. While total MPA conjugation CLint was generally similar for cat liver microsomes compared with dog and human liver microsomes, relative contributions of each pathway varied between species with phenol glucuronidation predominating in dog and human liver microsomes and phenol glucosidation predominating in cat liver microsomes. MPA conjugation variation between cat liver microsomes was threefold for total conjugation and for phenol glucosidation, sixfold for phenol glucuronidation, and 11‐fold for acyl glucuronidation. Our results indicate that total MPA conjugation is quantitatively similar between liver microsomes from cats, dogs, and humans despite large differences in the conjugation pathways that are utilized by these species.
A framework for priority effects
Authors: Fukami Tadashi , Mordecai Erin A. , Ostling Annette
Published: June 2016

History of species arrival can influence plant community assembly. In this issue of the Journal of Vegetation Science, Sarneel et al. show that the strength of such historical contingency, or priority effects, varies with soil moisture in riparian plants. We discuss this study within a theoretical framework describing how and when priority effects occur via destabilizing and equalizing mechanisms.
Video‐Based Interaction, Negotiation for Comprehensibility, and Second Language Speech Learning: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Saito Kazuya , Akiyama Yuka
Published: June 2016

This study examined the impact of video‐based conversational interaction on the longitudinal development (one academic semester) of second language production by college‐level Japanese English‐as‐a‐foreign‐language learners. Students in the experimental group engaged in weekly dyadic conversation exchanges with native speakers in the United States via telecommunication tools. The native speaker interlocutors were trained to provide interactional feedback (recasts) when the nonnative speakers’ utterances hindered successful understanding (i.e., negotiation for comprehensibility). The students in the comparison group received regular foreign language instruction without any interaction with native speakers. The coded video data showed that the experimental students worked on improving all linguistic domains of language, likely in response to their native speaker interlocutors’ interactional feedback (recasts, negotiation) during the treatment. The pretest–posttest data of the students’ spontaneous production showed that they made significant gains in the dimensions of comprehensibility, fluency, and lexicogrammar but not in those of accentedness and pronunciation.

Open Practices

This article has been awarded an Open Materials badge. All materials are publicly accessible in the IRIS digital repository at http://www.iris‐database.org. Learn more about the Open Practices badges from the Center for Open Science: https://osf.io/tvyxz/wiki.
The impact of bariatric surgery on esophageal function
Authors: Tolone Salvatore , Savarino Edoardo , Yates Robert B.
Published: June 2016

Obesity is a worldwide epidemic. There is increasing evidence that obesity is associated with benign gastroesophageal disease, including gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and esophageal dysmotility. Bariatric surgery—including sleeve gastrectomy, gastric bypass, and adjustable gastric band placement—can effectively result in weight loss and control of obesity‐related conditions, including GERD. However, there is increasing evidence that bariatric surgery itself can have a deleterious effect on esophageal function. In this review, we address the effect of obesity and bariatric surgery on esophageal dysfunction.
Salinity tolerance is related to cyanide‐resistant alternative respiration in Medicago truncatula under sudden severe stress
Authors: Del‐Saz Néstor Fernández , Florez‐Sarasa Igor , Clemente‐Moreno María José , Mhadhbi Haytem , Flexas Jaume , Fernie Alisdair R. , Ribas‐Carbó Miquel
Published: June 2016

Salt respiration is defined as the increase of respiration under early salt stress. However, the response of respiration varies depending on the degree of salt tolerance and salt stress.

It has been hypothesized that the activity of the alternative pathway may increase preventing over‐reduction of the ubiquinone pool in response to salinity, which in turn can increase respiration. Three genotypes of Medicago truncatula are reputed as differently responsive to salinity: TN1.11, A17 and TN6.18. We used the oxygen‐isotope fractionation technique to study the in vivo respiratory activities of the cytochrome oxidase pathway (COP) and the alternative oxidase pathway (AOP) in leaves and roots of these genotypes treated with severe salt stress (300 mM) during 1 and 3 days. In parallel, AOX capacity, gas exchange measurements, relative water content and metabolomics were determined in control and treated plants. Our study shows for first time that salt respiration is induced by the triggered AOP in response to salinity. Moreover, this phenomenon coincides with increased levels of metabolites such as amino and organic acids, and is shown to be related with higher photosynthetic rate and water content in TN6.18.
Setting the scene for dryland recovery: an overview and key findings from a workshop targeting seed‐based restoration
Authors: Kildisheva Olga A. , Erickson Todd E. , Merritt David J. , Dixon Kingsley W.
Published: June 2016

With nearly a quarter of global dryland systems considered to be degraded, the level and scale of degradation often exceed the thresholds for autogenic recovery, requiring human intervention to ensure that ecosystem biodiversity, structure, and function can be improved. A “Think Tank” workshop focusing on advancing the ecological approaches to large‐scale restoration in degraded environments was held at Kings Park and Botanic Garden, Western Australia. Acknowledging that adaptive and broadly multidisciplinary strategies are paramount to achieving restoration in a repeatable and cost‐effective manner, the workshop served as a forum to bring together plant scientists, ecologists, engineers, and environmental managers involved in dryland restoration from around the globe. This introductory paper to this special issue summarizes important contemporary challenges facing dryland restoration worldwide, offers a synthesis of the fundamental workshop themes, and provides a contextual overview for the series of invited papers in this issue, comprising reviews and case studies in seed and restoration technologies.
The virtuous circle: predator‐friendly farming and ecological restoration in Australia
Authors: Johnson Chris N. , Wallach Arian D.
Published: June 2016

In Australia, dingoes are widely regarded as enemies of livestock, and accordingly livestock producers commonly attempt to reduce or eradicate them by lethal control. This can have two forms of perverse outcomes: lethal control often does not succeed in reducing dingo populations and can even result in increased attacks on livestock; and the environmental benefits provided by dingoes, some of which are valuable to livestock production, are lost. We describe these outcomes and suggest mechanisms by which tolerance of dingoes could provide benefits to livestock enterprises, at the same time widening the scope of ecological restoration, and humane treatment of wildlife in Australia.
Responsive regulation in public‐private partnerships: Between deterrence and persuasion
Authors: Reynaers Anne‐Marie , Parrado Salvador
Published: June 2016

Design‐Build‐Finance‐Maintain‐Operate (DBFMO) contracts are a particular type of public‐private partnership whereby governments transfer the responsibility for the design, construction, financing, maintenance, and operation of a public infrastructure or utility service building to a multi‐headed private consortium through a long‐term performance contract. These arrangements present a typical principal‐agent problem because they incorporate a “carrot and stick” approach in which the agent (consortium) has to fulfill the expectations of the principal (procurer). This article deals with a neglected aspect in the literature related to the actual use of “the sticks or sanctions” in DBFMOs and assesses to what extent and under which conditions contract managers adopt a deterrence‐based enforcement approach or switch to a persuasion‐based approach, specifically when the contract clauses require the use of (automatic) deterrence. An empirical analysis of four DBFMOs in the Netherlands shows that the continuation of service delivery, the need to build trust, and the lack of agreement on output specifications play a role in the willingness of the procurer to apply a more responsive behavior that uses persuasion, even when deterrence should be automatically applied. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd
Hospital Mergers with Regulated Prices
Authors: Brekke Kurt R. , Siciliani Luigi , Straume Odd Rune
Published: June 2016

We study the effects of a hospital merger in a spatial competition framework where semi‐altruistic hospitals choose quality and cost‐containment effort. Whereas a merger always leads to higher average cost efficiency, the effect on quality provision depends on the strategic nature of quality competition, which in turn depends on the degree of altruism and the effectiveness of cost‐containment effort. If qualities are strategic complements, then a merger leads to lower quality for all hospitals. If qualities are strategic substitutes, then a merger leads to higher quality for at least one hospital, and might also yield higher average quality provision and increased patient utility.
IRE1, a component of the unfolded protein response signaling pathway, protects pollen development in Arabidopsis from heat stress
Authors: Deng Yan , Srivastava Renu , Quilichini Teagen D. , Dong Haili , Bao Yan , Horner Harry T. , Howell Stephen H.
Published: June 2016

The unfolded protein response (UPR) is activated by various stresses during vegetative development in Arabidopsis, but is constitutively active in anthers of unstressed plants. To understand the role of the UPR during reproductive development, we analyzed a double mutant, ire1a ire1b. The double mutant knocks out the RNA‐splicing arm of the UPR signaling pathway. It is fertile at room temperature but male sterile at modestly elevated temperature (ET). The conditional male sterility in the mutant is a sporophytic trait, and when the double mutant was grown at ET, defects appeared in the structure of the tapetum. As a result, the tapetum in the double mutant failed to properly deposit the pollen coat at ET, which made pollen grains clump and prevented their normal dispersal. IRE1 is a dual protein kinase/ribonuclease involved in the splicing of bZIP60 mRNA, and through complementation analysis of various mutant forms of IRE1b it was demonstrated that the ribonuclease activity of IRE1 was required for protecting male fertility from ET. It was also found that overexpression of SEC31A rescued the conditional male sterility in the double mutant. SEC31A is involved in trafficking from the endoplasmic reticulum to Golgi and a major target of the IRE1‐mediated UPR signaling in stressed seedlings. Thus, IRE1, a major component of the UPR, plays an important role in protecting pollen development from ET.
Fundus photography with a smartphone in indirect ophthalmoscopy in dogs and cats
Authors: Kanemaki Nobuyuki , Inaniwa Mizuho , Terakado Kunihiko , Kawarai Shinpei , Ichikawa Yoichiro
Published: June 2016

Objective

To introduce a simple method for fundus photography of dogs and cats using a smartphone and indirect ophthalmoscopy lenses.

Methods

Fundus photographs of dogs and cats with transparent ocular media were obtained with 15D, 20D, 28D, and 40D indirect lenses and an iPhone‐6, in a dark room and after pharmacologic pupil dilation. The photographs were recorded as still images using a video application and a video‐to‐still image application. Two types of neutral density (ND) filters were used as required for reduction of the torch illumination power of the iPhone.

Results

The images obtained in this study were upside‐down as a result of the optics used. A 180‐degree rotation was used to show their natural anatomical orientation. The image field of view varied with the diopter strength of the indirect lens used. The 40‐diopter lens offered the widest field.

Conclusion

Still images obtained with a smartphone, and indirect lenses may be useful for client communication and teaching in small animal ophthalmology.
The report of Task Group 100 of the AAPM: Application of risk analysis methods to radiation therapy quality management
Authors: Huq M. Saiful , Fraass Benedick A. , Dunscombe Peter B. , Gibbons John P. , Ibbott Geoffrey S. , Mundt Arno J. , Mutic Sasa , Palta Jatinder R. , Rath Frank , Thomadsen Bruce R. , Williamson Jeffrey F. , Yorke Ellen D.
Published: June 2016

The increasing complexity of modern radiation therapy planning and delivery challenges traditional prescriptive quality management (QM) methods, such as many of those included in guidelines published by organizations such as the AAPM, ASTRO, ACR, ESTRO, and IAEA. These prescriptive guidelines have traditionally focused on monitoring all aspects of the functional performance of radiotherapy (RT) equipment by comparing parameters against tolerances set at strict but achievable values. Many errors that occur in radiation oncology are not due to failures in devices and software; rather they are failures in workflow and process. A systematic understanding of the likelihood and clinical impact of possible failures throughout a course of radiotherapy is needed to direct limit QM resources efficiently to produce maximum safety and quality of patient care. Task Group 100 of the AAPM has taken a broad view of these issues and has developed a framework for designing QM activities, based on estimates of the probability of identified failures and their clinical outcome through the RT planning and delivery process. The Task Group has chosen a specific radiotherapy process required for “intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT)” as a case study. The goal of this work is to apply modern risk‐based analysis techniques to this complex RT process in order to demonstrate to the RT community that such techniques may help identify more effective and efficient ways to enhance the safety and quality of our treatment processes. The task group generated by consensus an example quality management program strategy for the IMRT process performed at the institution of one of the authors. This report describes the methodology and nomenclature developed, presents the process maps, FMEAs, fault trees, and QM programs developed, and makes suggestions on how this information could be used in the clinic. The development and implementation of risk‐assessment techniques will make radiation therapy safer and more efficient.
Discovery of the interstellar chiral molecule propylene oxide (CH
3
CHCH
2
O)
Authors: McGuire Brett A. , Carroll P. Brandon , Loomis Ryan A. , Finneran Ian A. , Jewell Philip R. , Remijan Anthony J. , Blake Geoffrey A.
Published: June 2016

Chiral molecule discovered in space

A chiral molecule is one that has two forms that are mirror images of each other: enantiomers. Biological systems overwhelmingly use one enantiomer over another, and some meteorites show an excess of one type. The two forms are almost identical chemically, so how this excess first arose is unknown. McGuire
et al.
used radio astronomy to detect the first known chiral molecule in space: propylene oxide. The work raises the prospect of measuring the enantiomer excess in various astronomical objects, including regions where planets are being formed, to discover how and why the excess first appeared.

Science
, this issue p.
1449
Natural history of the infant gut microbiome and impact of antibiotic treatment on bacterial strain diversity and stability
Authors: Yassour Moran , Vatanen Tommi , Siljander Heli , Hämäläinen Anu-Maaria , Härkönen Taina , Ryhänen Samppa J. , Franzosa Eric A. , Vlamakis Hera , Huttenhower Curtis , Gevers Dirk , Lander Eric S. , Knip Mikael ,   on behalf of the DIABIMMUNE Study Group, Xavier Ramnik J.
Published: June 2016

A longitudinal strain-level analysis of the infant gut microbiome after repeated antibiotic treatments reveals decreased diversity and stability, as well as transient increases in antibiotic resistance genes.
Clinical trial of blood-brain barrier disruption by pulsed ultrasound
Authors: Carpentier Alexandre , Canney Michael , Vignot Alexandre , Reina Vincent , Beccaria Kevin , Horodyckid Catherine , Karachi Carine , Leclercq Delphine , Lafon Cyril , Chapelon Jean-Yves , Capelle Laurent , Cornu Philippe , Sanson Marc , Hoang-Xuan Khê , Delattre Jean-Yves , Idbaih Ahmed
Published: June 2016

An implantable ultrasound device safely disrupts the blood-brain barrier in glioblastoma patients.
Measure for Measure: Biomarker standards and transparency
Authors: FitzGerald Garret A.
Published: June 2016

Biomarker tests for molecularly targeted therapies might be the key to unlocking the entry gate to precision medicine.
Predictive Computer Models for Biofilm Detachment Properties in Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Cogan Nick G. , Harro Janette M. , Stoodley Paul , Shirtliff Mark E.
Published: June 2016

Microbial biofilm communities are protected against environmental extremes or clearance by antimicrobial agents or the host immune response. They also serve as a site from which microbial populations search for new niches by dispersion via single planktonic cells or by detachment by protected biofilm aggregates that, until recently, were thought to become single cells ready for attachment. Mathematically modeling these events has provided investigators with testable hypotheses for further study. Such was the case in the recent article by Kragh et al. (K. N. Kragh, J. B. Hutchison, G. Melaugh, C. Rodesney, A. E. Roberts, Y. Irie, P. Ø. Jensen, S. P. Diggle, R. J. Allen, V. Gordon, and T. Bjarnsholt, mBio 7:e00237-16, 2016,
http://dx.doi.org/10.1128/mBio.00237-16
), in which investigators were able to identify the differential competitive advantage of biofilm aggregates to directly attach to surfaces compared to the single-celled planktonic populations. Therefore, as we delve deeper into the properties of the biofilm mode of growth, not only do we need to understand the complexity of biofilms, but we must also account for the properties of the dispersed and detached populations and their effect on reseeding.
Management of non-syndromic double tooth affecting permanent maxillary central incisors: a systematic review
Authors: Smail-Faugeron Violaine , Terradot Jeanne , Muller Bolla Michèle , Courson Frederic
Published: June 2016

To assess management of non-syndromic double tooth affecting permanent maxillary central incisors, we performed a systematic review and also present 2 case reports. We searched MEDLINE via PubMed and the reference lists of included reports. Eligible studies were any type of clinical studies describing the management of non-syndromic double tooth affecting the crown of a permanent maxillary central incisor. We included 68 studies corresponding to 72 relevant case reports. Therapeutic options in descending order of priority were restorative dentistry (35%), hemisection (33%), abstention (17%) or extraction (15%). Orthodontic management resulted in 57% of cases. We report an 11-year-old boy with bilateral fusion of the two maxillary central incisors and a 9-year-old boy with a double left central incisor and a supernumerary lateral right incisor. A multidisciplinary approach is key to management of permanent maxillary central incisors affected by coronary anomalies.
Bilateral perinatal testicular torsion: successful salvage supports emergency surgery
Authors: Granger Jeremy , Brownlee Ewan M , Cundy Thomas P , Goh Day Way
Published: June 2016

Perinatal testicular torsion (PTT) has poor rates of testicular salvage. Although rare, bilateral PTT carries the risk of anorchia. We present a case of a 2-day-old term infant with acute onset right-sided scrotal discolouration and tenderness. The infant was promptly taken to the operating theatre for emergency scrotal exploration. Bilateral extravaginal testicular torsion was identified, with the right testis appearing to have a more established ischaemic appearance compared to that on the left side. Intraoperative findings were representative of metachronous PTT with a short time period of only several hours separating the torsion events. Both testes were detorted and fixated in the scrotum. The infant made an uneventful recovery. Outpatient clinic review at 6 weeks and 6 months postoperatively confirmed no clinical evidence of testicular atrophy. Given the potential for contralateral torsion and the morbidity of anorchia, our experience supports the role for emergency scrotal exploration in suspected PTT.
Recurrent verrucous carcinoma of the urinary bladder after transurethral resection followed by intravesical mitomycin, and a review of the literature
Authors: Hassan Masroor , Qureshi Asim , Nasir Humaira
Published: June 2016

Verrucous carcinoma (VC) is a locally invasive, non-metastasising well differentiated variant of squamous cell carcinoma. It is very rare in the urinary bladder and mostly associated with schistosomiasis. It has a characteristic multilobular appearance with small surface projections on contrast cystogram. Owing to its bland cytology, it is a challenging diagnosis. We report a case of VC of the bladder—unrelated to schistosomiasis and involving the prostate—that recurred after transurethral resection of the tumour and prostate followed by six doses of intravesical mitomycin. To the best of our knowledge, no such case has been reported from Pakistan.