bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the impulsive boundary value problems for nonlinear Hamiltonian systems
Authors: Guseinov Gusein Sh.
Published: April 2016

In this work, we deal with two‐point boundary value problems for nonlinear impulsive Hamiltonian systems with sub‐linear or linear growth. A theorem based on the Schauder fixed point theorem is established, which gives a result that yields existence of solutions without implications that solutions must be unique. An upper bound for the solution is also established. Examples are given to illustrate the main result. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The analysis of the degenerate case of oscillations of a mechanical system
Authors: Kirsanov Mikhail N.
Published: April 2016

In this paper, the nonlinear model of the mechanism with two degrees of freedom will be studied. An approximate analytical solution of the differential equation of motion in the series showed the presence of features in the aspiration of the mass of one of the bodies to zero. It also gives an algorithm for finding the points of degeneracy of communication between small perturbations of the function of the problem and the derivatives of these functions at a time. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Targeting cancer stem‐like cells using dietary‐derived agents – Where are we now?
Authors: Khan Sameena , Karmokar Ankur , Howells Lynne , Thomas Anne L. , Bayliss Richard , Gescher Andreas , Brown Karen
Published: April 2016

Diet has been linked to an overwhelming proportion of cancers. Current chemotherapy and targeted therapies are limited by toxicity and the development of resistance against these treatments results in cancer recurrence or progression. In vitro evidence indicates that a number of dietary‐derived agents have activity against a highly tumorigenic, chemoradiotherapy resistant population of cells within a tumour. This population is associated with cancer recurrence and is therefore clinically significant. Targeting this subpopulation, termed cancer stem‐like cells with dietary‐derived agents provides a potentially low toxicity strategy to enhance current treatment regimens. In addition, dietary‐derived compounds also provide a novel approach to cancer prevention strategies. This review focusses on selected diet‐derived agents that have been shown to specifically target cancer stem‐like cells using in vivo models, or in clinical trials. Furthermore, the potential limitations of these studies are discussed, and areas of research that need to be addressed to allow successful translation of dietary‐derived agents to the clinical arena are highlighted.
Urinary neurotrophic peptides in postmenopausal women with and without overactive bladder
Authors: Pennycuff Jon F. , Schutte Stacey C. , Hudson Catherine O. , Karp Deborah R. , Malykhina Anna P. , Northington Gina M.
Published: April 2016

Aims

The aim of this study was to compare the expression of urinary nerve growth factor (NGF), brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), substance P (SP), and calcitonin‐gene related peptide (CGRP) in women with and without overactive bladder (OAB). We sought to determine factors associated with higher expression of these neuropeptides.

Methods

Participants with OAB and age‐matched controls were enrolled. Symptom severity was assessed with validated questionnaires. Urinary neurotrophin levels, symptom scores, and clinical data were compared between the groups. Multivariate analysis determined independent factors associated with urinary neurotrophin levels.

Results

Sixty‐seven women (38 OAB, 29 controls) were included. Women with OAB and controls were similar in age, race, body mass index, parity, and smoking status. Women with OAB were more likely to report a history of pelvic pain and pelvic surgery. Neurotrophic factor levels normalized to urinary creatinine did not differ between the groups. Increasing age was associated with greater urinary levels of BDNF and NGF (β = 0.23, 95%CI 0.11–0.34 and 0.75, 95%CI 0.17–1.33, respectively, P < 0.02). Higher urinary NGF was associated with increasing BMI (β = 0.81, 95%CI 0.05–1.57, P = 0.04) while pain was associated with elevated urinary SP (β = 0.21, 95%CI 0.09–0.33, P = 0.001).

Conclusions

Our data does not support a relationship between urinary neurotrophin levels and OAB in age‐matched postmenopausal women. Further research is necessary to elucidate the role of urinary neurotrophins in the diagnosis and management of OAB. Neurourol. Urodynam. 36:740–744, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Influence of modified mesoporous silica SBA‐15 on the flammability of intumescent high‐density polyethylene
Authors: Matar M. , Azambre B. , Cochez M. , Vahabi H. , Fradet F.
Published: April 2016

This work aims to investigate the fire retardant properties of a novel type of high‐density polyethylene composites. Our intumescent system consists in using classical flame retardants such as ammonium polyphosphate, pentaerythritol in combination with porous mesostructured silica (SBA‐15) fillers. Prior to use, SBA‐15 was chemically modified using different organic and inorganic grafts in order to obtain some specific properties, such as an improved compatibility with the polymer, or different types of surface acidity in order to increase charring reactions. Limiting oxygen index, UL‐94, pyrolysis flow combustion calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis were used to assess the burning behavior and thermal stability, respectively, of the processed composites. By keeping the total amount of additives always equal to 25 wt%, the better flammability characteristics were in general obtained at low SBA‐15 loadings (<2 wt%). X‐ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analyses of the residues showed that the formation of a barrier mainly constituted by crystalline silicon phosphates is probably a key to enhance the fire properties. Further slight improvements brought by the surface modification of SBA‐15 nanofillers are discussed according to type of incorporated particles. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Photoprotection versus photodamage: updating an old but still unsolved controversy about melanin
Authors: Solano F
Published: April 2016

Melanin is the main pigment in animal skin. It is a heterogeneous polyphenolic molecule with a generalized absorption in the UV−visible range synthesized in melanocytes, a kind of specialized epidermal cells. There are two types of melanin, eumelanin and pheomelanin, more abundant in dark or fair skin respectively. Melanin plays several roles, but in mammalian skin the main one is related to photoprotection against sunlight. The absorption energy from UV light implies that elements of the melanin structure are photoexcited, and the subsequent transference of energy can provoke several effects on surrounding molecules. These processes raise the possibility that melanin becomes a photosensitizer instead of a photoprotector. Thus, melanins should be considered double‐faced molecules. This was first evident for pheomelanin, but very recent new data on eumelanin indicate that the balance is subtler than thought so far, and photodamage can overcome photoprotection for both types. In this updated review, the consequences of the eumelanin versus pheomelanin photochemical properties are discussed in relation to DNA lesions. Melanin is considered photoprotective, but it can also produce DNA photodamage and this would be related to the high incidence of skin cancer, mostly in Caucasian people. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Lymph node metastasis of primary endometrial cancers: Associated proteins revealed by MALDI imaging
Authors: Mittal Parul , Klingler‐Hoffmann Manuela , Arentz Georgia , Winderbaum Lyron , Lokman Noor A , Zhang Chao , Anderson Lyndal , Scurry James , Leung Yee , Stewart Colin JR , Carter Jonathan , Kaur Gurjeet , Oehler Martin K. , Hoffmann Peter
Published: April 2016

Metastasis is a crucial step of malignant progression and is the primary cause of death from endometrial cancer. However, clinicians presently face the challenge that conventional surgical‐pathological variables, such as tumour size, depth of myometrial invasion, histological grade, lymphovascular space invasion or radiological imaging are unable to predict with accuracy if the primary tumour has metastasized. In the current retrospective study, we have used primary tumour samples of endometrial cancer patients diagnosed with (n = 16) and without (n = 27) lymph node metastasis to identify potential discriminators. Using peptide matrix assisted laser desorption/ionisation mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI‐MSI), we have identified m/z values which can classify 88% of all tumours correctly. The top discriminative m/z values were identified using a combination of in situ sequencing and LC‐MS/MS from digested tumour samples. Two of the proteins identified, plectin and α‐Actin‐2, were used for validation studies using LC‐MS/MS data independent analysis (DIA) and immunohistochemistry. In summary, MALDI‐MSI has the potential to identify discriminators of metastasis using primary tumour samples.
Effects of FeCl3 as oxidizing agent on the conduction mechanisms in polypyrrole (PPy)/pc–ZnO hybrid heterojunctions grown by oxidative chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Castro‐Carranza Alejandra , Nolasco Jairo C. , Bley Stephanie , Rückmann Max , Meierhofer Florian , Mädler Lutz , Voss Tobias , Gutowski Jürgen
Published: April 2016

P‐type polypyrrole (PPy) films are deposited on glass and on n‐type polycrystalline ZnO (pc–ZnO) substrates by oxidative chemical vapor deposition under three different amounts of FeCl3 used as oxidizing agents to form hybrid heterojunctions. Their microstructure, morphology, and electrical characteristics are studied. Particularly, current–voltage characteristics of the PPy/pc–ZnO heterojunctions are analyzed by defining an electrical equivalent circuit. The extracted parameters, together with the estimated heterojunction barrier height and the HOMO energy level of the PPy, indicate that a thermionic emission of holes at the heterojunction determines the saturation current of the diode at low voltage. For larger FeCl3 amounts, the diode ideality factor increases indicating an increment of recombination by tunneling of charge carriers occurring at the heterojunction. This is attributed to a narrowing of the space charge region due to an increment of the number of charge carriers with a growing amount of FeCl3. At high voltages, the PPy thickness influences the ohmic and space–charge limited current mechanisms at the bulk region. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2016, 54, 1537–1544
Shape memory ionomers
Authors: Cavicchi Kevin A. , Pantoja Marcos , Cakmak Miko
Published: April 2016

This review is focused on the use of ionomers in shape memory polymers. Ionomers are polymers that contain less than ∼15% ionic groups. The incompatibility between the ion‐pairs and the polymer backbone drives microphase separation producing dispersed ionic aggregates, which can physically crosslink the polymer. Shape memory polymers are responsive materials that can be deformed to program a temporary shape and then recovered on application of an external stimulus. Through the review of the main types of ionomers used in shape memory polymers, polyurethanes and polyester ionomers, polyolefin and polyaromatic ionomers, and perfluorosulfonic acid ionomers (i.e., Nafion®) it will be shown that ionomers can produce robust thermoplastic shape memory polymers and in many cases impart unique properties which allow advanced shape memory materials to be obtained including antibacterial, high temperature, and multishape memory polymers. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2016, 54, 1389–1396
Highly sensitive wide range organic photodiode based on zinc phthalocyanine:C60
Authors: Döring Sebastian , Otto Torsten , Cehovski Marko , Charfi Ouacef , Caspary Reinhard , Kowalsky Wolfgang , Rabe Torsten
Published: April 2016

We report on the preparation and characterization of a highly sensitive organic photodiode for the entire visible part of the spectrum. The photodiode is based on a small molecule heterojunction layer of zinc phthalocyanine (ZnPC) and fullerene C60 and is prepared by multistep vacuum deposition technique. Investigation is performed under different illumination conditions, from spectrally broad to narrow line, cw and pulsed, to determine linearity of operation, responsivity, quantum efficiency, dark current, and detectivity. The experimental results in combination with a simple device stack favor ZnPC:C60 as active layer in organic photodiodes, e.g., for opto‐electronic sensor systems.
The interaction of moist convection and mid‐level dry air in the advance of the onset of the Indian monsoon
Authors: Parker Douglas J. , Willetts Peter , Birch Cathryn , Turner Andrew G. , Marsham John H. , Taylor Christopher M. , Kolusu Seshagirirao , Martin Gill M.
Published: April 2016

The advance of the onset of the Indian monsoon is here explained in terms of a balance between the low‐level monsoon flow and an overrunning intrusion of mid‐tropospheric dry air. The monsoon advances, over a period of about 6 weeks, from the south of the country to the northwest. Given that the low‐level monsoon winds are westerly or southwesterly, and the mid‐level winds northwesterly, the monsoon onset propagates upwind relative to mid‐level flow, and perpendicular to the low‐level flow, and is not directly caused by moisture flux toward the northwest. Lacking a conceptual model for the advance means that it has been hard to understand and correct known biases in weather and climate prediction models.

The mid‐level northwesterlies form a wedge of dry air that is deep in the far northwest of India and over‐runs the monsoon flow. The dry layer is moistened from below by shallow cumulus and congestus clouds, so that the profile becomes much closer to moist adiabatic, and the dry layer is much shallower in the vertical, toward the southeast of India. The profiles associated with this dry air show how the most favourable environment for deep convection occurs in the south, and onset occurs here first.

As the onset advances across India, the advection of moisture from the Arabian Sea becomes stronger, and the mid‐level dry air is increasingly moistened from below. This increased moistening makes the wedge of dry air shallower throughout its horizontal extent, and forces the northern limit of moist convection to move toward the northwest. Wetting of the land surface by rainfall will further reinforce the north‐westward progression, by sustaining the supply of boundary‐layer moisture and shallow cumulus. The local advance of the monsoon onset is coincident with weakening of the mid‐level northwesterlies, and therefore weakened mid‐level dry advection.
Board Tensions and Activist Trustees: Current Domestic Cases and Implications for the Enrollment Manager
Authors: Levine Jeffrey P.
Published: April 2016

Utilizing five recent highly‐visible case studies of campus tensions between boards of trustees and trustee activism, the researcher examined each case, the history of trustees, the shift in trustee activism, what happened and what can be learned from each case, institutional context, the role of the trustee, and several responses. The researcher concludes by providing specific recommendations to effectively minimize trustee activism and tensions in the future and describes how these tensions specifically affect the university enrollment manager.
Surface Tension Components Based Selection of Cosolvents for Efficient Liquid Phase Exfoliation of 2D Materials
Authors: Shen Jianfeng , Wu Jingjie , Wang Man , Dong Pei , Xu Jingxuan , Li Xiaoguang , Zhang Xiang , Yuan Junhua , Wang Xifan , Ye Mingxin , Vajtai Robert , Lou Jun , Ajayan Pulickel M.
Published: April 2016

A proper design of direct liquid phase exfoliation (LPE) for 2D materials as graphene, MoS2, WS2, h‐BN, Bi2Se3, MoSe2, SnS2, and TaS2 with common cosolvents is carried out based on considering the polar and dispersive components of surface tensions of various cosolvents and 2D materials. It has been found that the exfoliation efficiency is enhanced by matching the ratio of surface tension components of cosolvents to that of the targeted 2D materials, based on which common cosolvents composed of IPA/water, THF/water, and acetone/water can be designed for sufficient LPE process. In this context, the library of low‐toxic and low‐cost solvents with low boiling points for LPE is infinitely enlarged when extending to common cosolvents. Polymer‐based composites reinforced with a series of different 2D materials are compared with each other. It is demonstrated that the incorporation of cosolvents‐exfoliated 2D materials can substantially improve the mechanical and thermal properties of polymer matrices. Typically, with the addition of 0.5 wt% of such 2D material as MoS2 nanosheets, the tensile strength and Young's modulus increased up to 74.85% and 136.97%, respectively. The different enhancement effect of 2D materials is corresponded to the intrinsic properties and LPE capacity of 2D materials.
Paracrine Engineering of Human Explant-Derived Cardiac Stem Cells to Over-Express Stromal-Cell Derived Factor 1α Enhances Myocardial Repair
Authors: Tilokee Everad L. , Latham Nicholas , Jackson Robyn , Mayfield Audrey E. , Ye Bin , Mount Seth , Lam Buu-Khanh , Suuronen Erik J. , Ruel Marc , Stewart Duncan J. , Davis Darryl R.
Published: April 2016

First generation cardiac stem cell products provide indirect cardiac repair but variably produce key cardioprotective cytokines, such as stromal-cell derived factor 1α, which opens the prospect of maximizing up-front paracrine-mediated repair. The mesenchymal subpopulation within explant derived human cardiac stem cells underwent lentiviral mediated gene transfer of stromal-cell derived factor 1α. Unlike previous unsuccessful attempts to increase efficacy by boosting the paracrine signature of cardiac stem cells, cytokine profiling revealed that stromal-cell derived factor 1α over-expression prevented lv-mediated “loss of cytokines” through autocrine stimulation of CXCR4+ cardiac stem cells. Stromal-cell derived factor 1α enhanced angiogenesis and stem cell recruitment while priming cardiac stem cells to readily adopt a cardiac identity. As compared to injection with unmodified cardiac stem cells, transplant of stromal-cell derived factor 1α enhanced cells into immunodeficient mice improved myocardial function and angiogenesis while reducing scarring. Increases in myocardial stromal-cell derived factor 1α content paralleled reductions in myocyte apoptosis but did not influence long-term engraftment or the fate of transplanted cells. Transplantation of stromal-cell derived factor 1α transduced cardiac stem cells increased the generation of new myocytes, recruitment of bone marrow cells, new myocyte/vessel formation and the salvage of reversibly damaged myocardium to enhance cardiac repair after experimental infarction.
KLK6‐regulated miRNA networks activate oncogenic pathways in breast cancer subtypes
Authors: Sidiropoulos Konstantinos G. , Ding Qiang , Pampalakis Georgios , White Nicole M.A. , Boulos Peter , Sotiropoulou Georgia , Yousef George M.
Published: April 2016

KLK6 is expressed in normal mammary tissues and is aberrantly regulated in breast cancer. At physiological levels of expression, i.e. those found in normal mammary tissues, KLK6 acts as a tumor suppressor in human breast cancer. However, aberrant overexpression of KLK6 (i.e. 50–100‐fold higher than normal), a characteristic of a subset of human breast cancers is associated with increased tumorigenicity (Pampalakis et al. Cancer Res 69:3779–3787, 2009). Here, we stably transfected KLK6‐non‐expressing MDA‐MB‐231 breast cancer cells with the full‐length KLK6 cDNA to overexpress KLK6 at levels comparable to those observed in patients, and investigated potential oncogenic miRNA networks regulated by these abnormally high KLK6 expression levels and increased activity of this serine protease. A number of miRNAs that are upregulated (e.g. miR‐146a) or downregulated (e.g. miR‐34a) via KLK6‐induced alterations in the miRNA biogenesis machinery were identified. Integrated experimental and bioinformatics analyses identified convergent miRNA networks targeting the cell cycle, MYC, MAPK, and other signaling pathways. In large clinical datasets, significant correlations between KLK6 and downstream MAPK and MYC targets at both the RNA and protein levels was confirmed, as well as negative correlation with GATA3. It was also demonstrated that KLK6 overexpression and likely its proteolytic activity is associated with alterations in downstream miRNAs and their targets, and these differ with the molecular subtypes of breast cancer. The data partly explains the different characteristics of breast cancer subtypes. Importantly, we introduce a combined KLK6‐CDKN1B+MYC+CDKN1C score for prediction of long‐term patient survival outcomes, with higher scores indicating poor survival.
Multi-scale responses of scattering layers to environmental variability in Monterey Bay, California
Authors: Urmy Samuel S. , Horne John K.
Published: April 2016

A 38 kHz upward-facing echosounder was deployed on the seafloor at a depth of 875 m in Monterey Bay, CA, USA (36° 42.748’ N, 122° 11.214’ W) from 27 February 2009 to 18 August 2010. This 18-month record of acoustic backscatter was compared to oceanographic time series from a nearby data buoy to investigate the responses of animals in sound-scattering layers to oceanic variability at seasonal and sub-seasonal time scales. Pelagic animals, as measured by acoustic backscatter, moved higher in the water column and decreased in abundance during spring upwelling, attributed to avoidance of a shoaling oxycline and advection offshore. Seasonal changes were most evi-dent in a non-migrating scattering layer near 500 m depth that disappeared in spring and reappeared in summer, building to a seasonal maximum in fall. At sub-seasonal time scales, similar responses were observed after individual upwelling events, though they were much weaker than the seasonal relationship. Correlations of acoustic backscatter with oceanographic variability also differed with depth. Backscatter in the upper water column decreased immediately following upwelling, then increased approximately 20 days later. Similar correlations existed deeper in the water column, but at increasing lags, suggesting that near-surface productivity propagated down the water column at 10-15 m d‒1, consistent with sinking speeds of marine snow measured in Monterey Bay. Sub-seasonal variability in backscatter was best correlated with sea-surface height, suggesting that passive physical transport was most important at these time scales.
A new seismic attribute for ambiguity reduction in hydrocarbon prediction
Authors: Liu Changcheng , Ghosh Deva
Published: April 2016

Hydrocarbon prediction from seismic amplitude and amplitude‐versus‐offset is a daunting task. Amplitude interpretation is ambiguous due to the effects of lithology and pore fluid. In this paper, we propose a new attribute “J” based on a Gassmann–Biot fluid substitution to reduce ambiguity. Constrained by seismic and rock physics, theJattribute has good ability to detect hydrocarbons from seismic data. There are currently many attributes for hydrocarbon prediction. Among the existing attributes, far‐minus‐near times far and fluid factor are commonly used. In this paper, the effectiveness of these two existing attributes was compared with the new attribute. Numerical modelling was used to test the new attribute “J” and to compare “J” with the two existing attributes. The results showed that theJattribute can predict the existence of hydrocarbon in different porosity scenarios with less ambiguity than the other two attributes. Tests conducted with real seismic data demonstrated the effectiveness of theJattribute. TheJattribute has performed well in scenarios in which the other two attributes gave inaccurate predictions. The proposed attribute “J” is fast and simple, and it could be used as a first step in hydrocarbon analysis for exploration.
How many broadleaved trees are enough in conifer plantations? The economy of land sharing, land sparing and quantitative targets
Authors: Yamaura Yuichi , Shoji Yasushi , Mitsuda Yasushi , Utsugi Hajime , Tsuge Takahiro , Kuriyama Koichi , Nakamura Futoshi
Published: April 2016

For biodiversity conservation to be an effective and significant social investment, non‐marketed values of biodiversity conservation and its associated opportunity costs should be evaluated in monetary terms.

In this study, we measured the willingness to pay (WTP) for bird abundance using a choice experiment (CE) based on the random utility model. We performed a cost–benefit analysis to identify the optimal proportion of broadleaved trees in conifer plantations on a volume basis to maximize the social benefits of bird conservation and wood production.

The results suggested that respondents to the CE were not satisfied with their current situation and preferred an increase in bird abundance. However, the estimated WTP indicated diminishing returns of bird conservation. More specifically, WTP first greatly increased before gradually experiencing decreasing marginal values, reaching its peak and finally decreasing slightly with increasing bird abundance.

Optimization analyses indicated that when the relationship between bird abundance and broadleaved tree proportion was convex, semi‐natural plantations with nonzero broadleaved tree proportion (0·02–0·22) were always optimal options. When the relationship was linear, optimal broadleaved tree proportion ranged from 0 to 0·78 and was greatly affected by wood values. When the relationship was concave, there were only two optimal broadleaved tree proportions: a very high proportion (approximately 0·90) and the lowest possible proportion (0). When the convex and concave relationships approached the linear form, comparable benefits could be attained across broad ranges of broadleaved tree proportion both within and across the relationships. In such cases, it would be useful to increase the likelihood of a feasible land‐use strategy of either land sparing or land sharing in order to be successful.

Synthesis and applications. It can be difficult to set quantitative targets in biodiversity conservation solely on an ecological basis, and social benefits of biodiversity conservation can create diminishing returns in many situations. The framework we propose shows how to reconcile resource production and biodiversity conservation in the real world.
The ecology of wildlife disease surveillance: demographic and prevalence fluctuations undermine surveillance
Authors: Walton Laura , Marion Glenn , Davidson Ross S. , White Piran C.L. , Smith Lesley A. , Gavier‐Widen Dolores , Yon Lisa , Hannant Duncan , Hutchings Michael R.
Published: April 2016

Wildlife disease surveillance is the first line of defence against infectious disease. Fluctuations in host populations and disease prevalence are a known feature of wildlife disease systems. However, the impact of such heterogeneities on the performance of surveillance is currently poorly understood.

We present the first systematic exploration of the effects of fluctuations' prevalence and host population size on the efficacy of wildlife disease surveillance systems. In this study, efficacy is measured in terms of ability to estimate long‐term prevalence and detect disease risk.

Our results suggest that for many wildlife disease systems, fluctuations in population size and disease lead to bias in surveillance‐based estimates of prevalence and overconfidence in assessments of both the precision of prevalence estimates and the power to detect disease.

Neglecting such ecological effects may lead to poorly designed surveillance and ultimately to incorrect assessments of the risks posed by disease in wildlife. This will be most problematic in systems where prevalence fluctuations are large and disease fade‐outs occur. Such fluctuations are determined by the interaction of demography and disease dynamics. Although particularly likely in highly fluctuating populations typical of fecund short‐lived hosts, such fluctuations cannot be ruled out in more stable populations of longer‐lived hosts.

Synthesis and applications. Fluctuations in population size and disease prevalence should be considered in the design and implementation of wildlife disease surveillance, and the framework presented here provides a template for conducting suitable power calculations. Ultimately, understanding the impact of fluctuations in demographic and epidemiological processes will enable improvements to wildlife disease surveillance systems leading to better characterization of, and protection against endemic, emerging and re‐emerging disease threats.
Threshold dynamics in plant succession after tree planting in agricultural riparian zones
Authors: Bourgeois Bérenger , Vanasse Anne , González Eduardo , Andersen Roxane , Poulin Monique
Published: April 2016

Trajectories of plant communities can be described by different models of plant succession. While a Clementsian (gradual continuum model) or Gleasonian approach (relay floristics model) has traditionally been used to inform restoration outcomes, alternative succession models developed recently may better represent restoration trajectories. The threshold dynamics succession model, which predicts an abrupt species turnover after an environmental threshold is crossed, has never been used in a restoration context. This model might, however, better describe shifts in plant competitive ranking and facilitation interactions during species turnover.

Fifty‐three riparian zones, planted with trees 3–17 years prior to sampling, and 14 natural riparian forests were studied in two agricultural watersheds of south‐eastern Québec (Canada). The cover of vegetation strata was assessed at the site scale, and the cover of plant species was estimated in a total of 784 1‐m2 plots. Canopy cover was measured stereoscopically for each plot.

As revealed by Principal Response Curves and broken stick models, herbaceous species composition was stable during the first 12–13 years after tree planting, but then abruptly shifted. This two‐step pattern in species turnover followed the increase in canopy cover after tree planting. Once canopy cover passed a threshold of ca 40%, plant succession started and led to the re‐establishment of forest communities 17 years after planting.

Following herbaceous species turnover, the cover of ecological groups changed significantly towards covers of natural riparian forests: shade‐tolerant species generally increased, while light‐demanding and non‐native species decreased. Vegetation structure was also significantly affected by tree planting: tree and shrub cover increased, while monocot cover decreased.

Synthesis and applications. Tree planting efficiently restored herbaceous forest communities in riparian zones by inducing a species turnover mediated by light availability corresponding to the threshold dynamics model in plant succession. Fostering and monitoring canopy closure in tree‐planted riparian zones should improve restoration success and the design of alternative strategies. The innovative statistical approach of this study aiming to identify succession patterns and their associated theoretical models can guide future restoration in any type of ecosystem around the world to bridge the gap between science and management.
Modification of plant‐induced responses by an insect ecosystem engineer influences the colonization behaviour of subsequent shelter‐users
Authors: Uesugi Akane , Morrell Kimberly , Poelman Erik H. , Raaijmakers Ciska E. , Kessler André
Published: April 2016

Herbivores that modify plant morphology, such as gall‐forming insects, can disproportionately impact arthropod community on their host plants by providing novel habitats and shelters from biotic and abiotic stresses. These ecosystem engineers could also modify plant chemical properties, but how such changes in plant quality affect the behaviour of subsequent colonizers has rarely been investigated.

We explored how an initial infestation of the tall goldenrod (Solidago altissima) by an ecosystem engineer, the rosette gall‐midge (Rhopalomyia solidaginis), affects colonization behaviour of a shelter‐using beetle (Microrhopala vittata) through plant‐induced responses in the field.

Beetles preferentially colonized plants with galls and exhibited a clumped distribution on those plants, which suggested a possible advantage for aggregating on galled plants. Accordingly, we found that beetles remained longer on galled plants with previous beetle damage than those without beetle damage. No such effect of beetle damage was found on plants without a gall. Similar interactions between galler infestation and beetle damage were found in beetle's feeding choice, leaf diterpene and serine protease inhibitor production, and volatile organic compound (VOC) emission. These plant metabolic induction and herbivore response patterns indicated that the gall‐midge can alter how plants respond to the beetle damage and that gall presence coupled with beetle damage improves leaf palatability for the beetle. Finally, we found reciprocal effects of beetles on gall‐midge performance to be neutral to slightly positive, suggesting that the observed field association of the two herbivores could be formed by plant‐mediated facilitation.

Synthesis. Our study suggests that an ecosystem engineer could have significant impact on herbivore community not only by changing plant morphology, but also by altering host quality and modifying plant‐induced responses to subsequent herbivory. As such,R. solidaginisalso functions as a keystone herbivore that has disproportionate effects on community dynamics and composition meditated by induced plant growth and metabolic responses.
Comparing hospital and telephone follow‐up for patients treated for stage–I endometrial cancer (ENDCAT trial): a randomised, multicentre, non‐inferiority trial
Authors: Beaver K , Williamson S , Sutton C , Hollingworth W , Gardner A , Allton B , Abdel‐Aty M , Blackwood K , Burns S , Curwen D , Ghani R , Keating P , Murray S , Tomlinson A , Walker B , Willett M , Wood N , Martin‐Hirsch P
Published: April 2016

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of nurse‐led telephone follow‐up (TFU) for patients with stage–I endometrial cancer.

Design

Multicentre, randomised, non‐inferiority trial.

Setting

Five centres in the North West of England.

Sample

A cohort of 259 women treated for stage–I endometrial cancer attending hospital outpatient clinics for routine follow‐up.

Methods

Participants were randomly allocated to receive traditional hospital based follow‐up (HFU) or nurse‐led TFU.

Main outcome measures

Primary outcomes were psychological morbidity (State Trait Anxiety Inventory, STAI–S) and patient satisfaction with the information provided. Secondary outcomes included patient satisfaction with service, quality of life, and time to detection of recurrence.

Results

The STAI–S scores post‐randomisation were similar between groups [mean (SD): TFU 33.0 (11.0); HFU 35.5 (13.0)]. The estimated between‐group difference in STAI–S was 0.7 (95% confidence interval, 95% CI −1.9 to 3.3); the confidence interval lies above the non‐inferiority limit (−3.5), indicating the non‐inferiority of TFU. There was no significant difference between groups in reported satisfaction with information (odds ratio, OR 0.9; 95% CI 0.4–2.1; P = 0.83). Women in the HFU group were more likely to report being kept waiting for their appointment (P = 0.001), that they did not need any information (P = 0.003), and were less likely to report that the nurse knew about their particular case and situation (P = 0.005).

Conclusions

The TFU provides an effective alternative to HFU for patients with stage–I endometrial cancer, with no reported physical or psychological detriment. Patient satisfaction with information was high, with similar levels between groups.

Tweetable abstract

ENDCAT trial shows effectiveness of nurse‐led telephone follow‐up for patients with stage‐I endometrial cancer.
Household economic resilience to catastrophic rainstorms and flooding in a Chinese megacity
Authors: Lo Alex Y. , Xu Bixia , Chan Faith , Su Ruixian
Published: April 2016

Megacities situated on flood plains face escalating risks of waterlogging and inundation. Tianjin is one of these megacities in China where residents are exposed to these risks and not well prepared for their consequences. Government policies should support the most vulnerable and less resilient groups. This study can inform policy‐making by identifying the socio‐economic characteristics of those who are financially better prepared for the consequences of catastrophic rainstorms and flooding. A structured questionnaire survey was administered to 332 Tianjin residents. Results confirm that financial conditions crucially determine household resilience to these natural hazards. Lower‐income and less educated urban residents have lower resilient capacity. Weak engagement in the community, including residential committees and other organisations, is related to lower capacity to cope with the economic consequences of extreme weather events. Less resilient groups are therefore those who are subject to urban poverty and have limited social capital. Tianjin and other cities in the developing world require resilience strategies that attend to this segment of urban population.
A Comparison of Flavor Differences between Pecan Cultivars in Raw and Roasted Forms
Authors: Magnuson Shelby M. , Kelly Brendan , Koppel Kadri , Reid William
Published: April 2016

The objective of this research was to explore sensory differences among 8 different pecan cultivars (“Pawnee,” “Witte,” “Kanza,” “Major,” “Lakota,” “Giles,” “Maramec,” “Chetopa”) in raw and roasted forms. The cultivars were collected from 2 growing seasons (2013 and 2014) and evaluated separately. Trained panelists evaluated each cultivar from each season in raw and roasted forms, measuring intensities of 20 flavor attributes using descriptive analysis. The intensities of 10 of the 20 flavor attributes were higher for the roasted pecans across all cultivars. These included pecan ID, overall nutty, nutty‐woody, nutty‐grainlike, nutty‐buttery, brown, caramelized, roasted, overall sweet, and sweet. The cultivars exhibited significant differences from one another for 8 attributes: pecan ID, nutty‐buttery, caramelized, acrid, woody, oily, astringent, and bitter. Each of the cultivars displayed unique flavor profiles with some demonstrating extremes of certain attributes, for example the high astringency of “Lakota” or the buttery characteristics of “Pawnee.” These results may help pecan growers and pecan product manufacturers understand flavor differences between different varieties of pecans, both in raw and roasted states, and the changes that occur during this process.
Endoplasmic reticulum stress is activated in acute pancreatitis
Authors: Wu Jian Sheng , Li Wei Min , Chen Yi Na , Zhao Qian , Chen Qin Fen
Published: April 2016

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is one of the most important cell organelles in the body, regulating protein synthesis, folding and aggregation. Endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) is a particular subcellular pathological process involving an imbalance of homeostasis and ER disorder. In the early stage of ERS, cells show a protective unfolded protein response that changes the cellular transcriptional and translational programs to alleviate the process. Therefore, a certain degree of ERS can activate the protective adaptation of cells, whereas sustained severe ERS triggers an apoptotic signal and leads to apoptosis. Acute pancreatitis is a disease caused by trypsin digestion of the pancreas, although the pathogenesis is not completely understood. However, a close association has been suggested between pancreatitis and ERS. This article reviewed relevant research advances and discussed the effect of ERS on the development and progression of acute pancreatitis.
Correspondence Between NANDA International Nursing Diagnoses and Outcomes as Proposed by the Nursing Outcomes Classification
Authors: de Carvalho Emilia Campos , Eduardo Aline Helena Appoloni , Romanzini Adilson , Simão Talita Prado , Zamarioli Cristina Mara , Garbuio Danielle Cristina , Herdman Tracy Heather
Published: April 2016

The accurate identification of the nursing diagnoses and the corresponding measurement of their indicators will depend on the elements in the standardized language systems.

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the correspondence between elements of four NANDA‐I nursing diagnoses and outcomes suggested by the nursing outcomes classification (NOC) for the resolution of these diagnoses.

METHOD

A methodological study consisting of cross‐mapping was performed in the first stage between definitions, defining characteristics (DCs), and related factors (RFs) of impaired oral mucous membrane, impaired tissue integrity, spiritual distress, and delayed surgical recovery and outcome definitions and indicators to measure results of diagnoses resolution and an analysis of its relevance by experts in the second stage.

RESULTS

It found partial correspondence between outcome indicators, DCs, RFs, and definitions.

CONCLUSION

The data evidence the relevance of this review for a reliable application of these taxonomies and demonstrated partial correspondence between concepts analyzed.

A identificação precisa dos diagnósticos de enfermagem e a medida correspondente dos seus indicadores dependerá dos elementos nos sistemas de linguagem padronizados.

OBJETIVO

Foi analisar a correspondência entre os elementos de quatro NANDA‐I diagnósticos de enfermagem e os resultados sugeridos pelo NOC para a resolução destes diagnósticos.

MÉTODO

um estudo metodológico que consiste emcross‐mappingfoi realizado em uma primeira fase entre as definições, características definidoras e fatores relacionados de Mucosa oral prejudicada, Integridade tissular prejudicada, Sofrimento espiritual e Recuperação cirúrgica retardada e as definições dos resultados indicados para a resolução destes diagnósticos; na segunda fase, foi realizada uma análise desta concordância por especialistas.

RESULTADOS

correspondência parcial entre as definições dos diagnósticos e dos resultados, características definidoras e fatores relacionados.

CONCLUSÃO

Os resultados evidenciam a relevância dessa avaliação para uma aplicação confiável destas taxonomias e demonstrou a correspondência parcial entre os conceitos analisados.
Clinical Validation of the Nursing Diagnosis of Sexual Dysfunction in Pregnant Women
Authors: Carteiro Dora , Caldeira Sílvia , Sousa Lisete , Costa Débora , Mendes Cláudia
Published: April 2016

OBJECTIVE

Validate the sexual dysfunction nursing diagnosis in pregnant women.

METHODS

Cross‐sectional research using Richard Fehring's Clinical Diagnostic Validity Model.

FINDINGS

The prevalence of diagnosis was 48.7% in a sample of 306 pregnant women. A total of 14 defining characteristics were validated: seven major and seven minor. Seeks confirmation of desirability had the highest sensitivity value and decrease in sexual desire had the highest specificity value. The total score was 0.79.

CONCLUSIONS

The diagnosis was validated in this sample.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

The prevalence of the diagnosis is a requirement for effective intervention. Validation in different social and cultural contexts would increase the clinical evidence of this diagnosis.

OBJETIVO

Validar o diagnóstico de enfermagem disfunção sexual em mulheres grávidas.

MÉTODOS

Estudo transversal, segundo o modelo de validação clínica de Richard Fehring.

RESULTADOS

A prevalência foi de 48,7%em306gestantes. Um total de 14 características definidoras foram validadas: sete principais e sete secundárias. A característica definidora procura de confirmação de desejabilidade foi a mais sensível e a diminuição do desejo sexual, a mais específica. O score total do diagnóstico foi 0,79.

CONCLUSÕES

O diagnóstico foi validado nesta amostra.

IMPLICAÇÕES PARA A PRÁTICA

A prevalência do diagnóstico apela à intervenção de enfermagem efetiva. Estudos de validação em diferentes contextos sociais e culturais poderão contribuir para a melhoria da evidência científica do diagnóstico.
Osteoprotegerin Levels Decrease in Abstinent Alcohol‐Dependent Patients
Authors: Malik Peter , von Gleissenthall Gabriele , Gasser Rudolf W. , Moncayo Roy , Giesinger Johannes M. , Mechtcheriakov Sergei
Published: April 2016

Background

Osteoprotegerin (OPG) is a parameter of increasing interest in the search for pathophysiological mechanisms of reduced bone mineral density (BMD). It has been shown to be increased in alcohol‐dependent subjects. In our study, we wanted to examine whether changes in OPG and receptor activator of the nuclear factor‐κB ligand (RANKL) levels during an 8‐week abstinence period in alcohol‐dependent patients treated in an alcohol rehabilitation clinic would occur and whether alcohol‐related variables, smoking, status, or physical activity prior to the study served as an influence on BMD and on OPG/RANKL levels.

Methods

Forty‐three patients, who were abstinent not longer than a week, were included in the study. OPG and RANKL as well as other markers of bone metabolism were measured at baseline, and after 8 weeks of treatment, BMD was measured once.

Results

OPG levels decreased significantly, while osteocalcin, a marker of bone formation, increased significantly. RANKL as well as RANKL/OPG ratio, Serum CrossLaps, and all examined hormones showed no significant changes over time. Inflammatory parameters showed a significant reduction after 8 weeks. We detected no influence of potentially confounding variables of alcohol dependency on the course of OPG or other laboratory values.

Conclusions

Our results could point to the well‐known risk for reduced BMD in these patients being reversible with abstinence through an excess of bone formation. We also confirmed earlier findings that inflammatory processes play a role in the pathogenesis of alcohol‐induced disturbances in bone metabolism.
Yield and income effects of rice varieties with tolerance of multiple abiotic stresses: the case of green super rice (GSR) and flooding in the Philippines
Authors: Yorobe Jose M. , Ali Jauhar , Pede Valerien O. , Rejesus Roderick M. , Velarde Orlee. P. , Wang Huaiyu
Published: April 2016

With the increasing frequency of extreme climatic events, the new challenge is to develop rice varieties that are tolerant of drought, water submergence, and salinity. There are now new high‐yielding green super rice (GSR) cultivars developed at the International Rice Research Institute with increased tolerance to multiple abiotic stresses. But a clear understanding of the economic benefits of these varieties under farmers’ production environments is not yet fully understood. In this article, we assess the yield and income effects of GSR rice varieties using a two‐year panel data from one province. We use matched samples from a propensity score matching method and a fixed‐effects model within a difference‐in‐difference (DID) framework to estimate the yield effects. The income effects were evaluated using the parameter estimates from the yield/production function model. The results of the ordinary least squares and DID fixed‐effects regressions reveal significant and positive effects of GSR varieties on yield. The most important finding is that the benefits from these varieties are strongly felt when there is flooding. This evidence was not as robust when matched samples were used. However, it is clear that the yield benefits from GSR varieties could improve rice food security and help alleviate poverty in the country.