bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating environmental, demographic and genetic effects on population‐level survival in an island endemic
Authors: Purwandana Deni , Ariefiandy Achmad , Imansyah M. Jeri , Ciofi Claudio , Forsyth David M. , Gormley Andrew M. , Rudiharto Heru , Seno Aganto , Fordham Damien A. , Gillespie Graeme , Jessop Tim S.
Published: February 2015

The population dynamics of island species are considered particularly sensitive to variation in environmental, demographic and/or genetic processes. However, few studies have attempted to evaluate the relative importance of these processes for key vital rates in island endemics. We integrated the results of long‐term capture–mark–recapture analysis, prey surveys, habitat quality assessments and molecular analysis to determine the causes of variation in the survival rates of Komodo dragonsVaranus komodoensisat 10 sites on four islands in Komodo National Park, Indonesia. Using open population capture–mark–recapture methods, we ranked competing models that considered environmental, ecological, genetic and demographic effects on site‐specific Komodo dragon survival rates. Site‐specific survival rates ranged from 0.49 (95% CI: 0.33–0.68) to 0.92 (0.79–0.97) in the 10 study sites. The three highest‐ranked models (i.e. ΔQAICc< 2) explained ∼70% of variation in Komodo dragon survival rates and identified interactions between inbreeding coefficients, prey biomass density and habitat quality as important explanatory variables. There was evidence of additive effects from ecological and genetic (e.g. inbreeding) processes affecting Komodo dragon survival rates. Our results indicate that maintaining high ungulate prey biomass and habitat quality would enhance the persistence of Komodo dragon populations. Assisted gene flow may also increase the genetic and demographic viability of the smaller Komodo dragon populations.
Climate as a driver of tropical insular diversity: comparative phylogeography of two ecologically distinctive frogs in Puerto Rico
Authors: Barker Brittany S. , Rodríguez‐Robles Javier A. , Cook Joseph A.
Published: February 2015

The effects of late Quaternary climate on distributions and evolutionary dynamics of insular species are poorly understood in most tropical archipelagoes. We used ecological niche models under past and current climate to derive hypotheses regarding how stable climatic conditions shaped genetic diversity in two ecologically distinctive frogs in Puerto Rico. Whereas the mountain coquí Eleutherodactylus portoricensis is restricted to montane forest in the Cayey and Luquillo Mountains, the red‐eyed coquí E. antillensis is a habitat generalist distributed across the entire Puerto Rican Bank (Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, excluding St Croix). To test our hypotheses, we conducted phylogeographic and population genetic analyses based on mitochondrial and nuclear loci of each species across their range in Puerto Rico. Patterns of population differentiation in E. portoricensis, but not in E. antillensis, supported our hypotheses. For E. portoricensis, these patterns include: individuals isolated by long‐term unsuitable climate in the Río Grande de Loíza Basin in eastern Puerto Rico belong to different genetic clusters; past and current climate strongly predicted genetic differentiation; and Cayey and Luquillo Mountains populations split prior to the last interglacial. For E. antillensis, these patterns include: genetic clusters did not fully correspond to predicted long‐term unsuitable climate; and past and current climate weakly predicted patterns of genetic differentiation. Genetic signatures in E. antillensis are consistent with a recent range expansion into western Puerto Rico, possibly resulting from climate change and anthropogenic influences. As predicted, regions with a large area of long‐term suitable climate were associated with higher genetic diversity in both species, suggesting larger and more stable populations. Finally, we discussed the implications of our findings for developing evidence‐based management decisions for E. portoricensis, a taxon of special concern. Our findings illustrate the role of persistent suitable climatic conditions in promoting the persistence and diversification of tropical island organisms.
Subjective ratings of neurocognitive functioning in depressed young people undergoing treatment: utility of a brief screening tool
Authors: Fisher Caroline A. , Goodall Joanne , Simmons Magenta B. , Allott Kelly , Hetrick Sarah E.
Published: February 2015

Aims

To determine how young people with depression rate their neurocognitive functioning during treatment, and whether these ratings are affected by depression severity, age, suicidal ideation and antidepressant status.

Methods

Fifty young people (12–25 years) engaged in psychological therapy completed the Neuropsychological Symptoms Self‐Report rating their neurocognitive functioning in a range of domains.

Results

In two domains, working memory/multitasking and motivation, more than 40% of the sample rated their functioning as improved, since commencing treatment. Ratings of neurocognitive functioning were affected by depression severity and suicidal ideation, particularly in the areas of wakefulness, attention and concentration, working memory/multitasking, and motivation. However, there were few differences related to age or antidepressant status.

Conclusions

The Neuropsychological Symptoms Self‐Report – a rapid measure of subjective neurocognitive functioning – can provide a snapshot of subjective changes in neurocognitive functioning during treatment for depression. This information may guide treatment approaches.
Chinese label for people at risk for psychosis
Authors: Lee Edwin H.M. , Ching Elaine Y.N. , Hui Christy L.M. , Lin Jessie J.X. , Chang W.C. , Chan Sherry K.W. , Chen Eric Y.H.
Published: February 2015

Aim

With the movement of early detection and intervention for people at risk for psychosis, there is a growing need for a uniform terminology to describe the condition. A diagnostic label that can adapt into local culture and value may have positive effect in minimizing stigma. This study explored the preference of Chinese label for people at risk of psychosis and its associated stigma in Hong Kong.

Methods

A total of 149 individuals from the general public and 51 health‐care professionals were recruited between March 2013 and May 2014. The condition of at risk for psychosis was described in a vignette. Participants' preference of label and perceived stigma of the condition and their basic demographics were collected by self‐administered questionnaires.

Results

The most preferred Chinese label was ‘yun‐niang‐qi’ (developing period, 45%), followed by ‘qian‐qu‐qi’ (precursor period, 19%), ‘feng‐xian‐qi’ (risky period, 18%), ‘zao‐xian‐qi’ (early sign period, 16%) and ‘gao‐wei‐qi’ (high risk period, 4%). Gender, age, occupation and previous contact with mental health were not associated with preference of any Chinese label.

Conclusions

The process in searching for this potential and locally accepted label for people at risk for psychosis has raised the awareness among the professionals. A proper label may help promote future clinical research and mental health services in Hong Kong.
Acceleration of cyanobacterial dominance in north temperate‐subarctic lakes during the Anthropocene
Authors: Taranu Zofia E. , Gregory‐Eaves Irene , Leavitt Peter R. , Bunting Lynda , Buchaca Teresa , Catalan Jordi , Domaizon Isabelle , Guilizzoni Piero , Lami Andrea , McGowan Suzanne , Moorhouse Heather , Morabito Giuseppe , Pick Frances R. , Stevenson Mark A. , Thompson Patrick L. , Vinebrooke Rolf D.
Published: February 2015

Increases in atmospheric temperature and nutrients from land are thought to be promoting the expansion of harmful cyanobacteria in lakes worldwide, yet to date there has been no quantitative synthesis of long‐term trends. To test whether cyanobacteria have increased in abundance over the past ~ 200 years and evaluate the relative influence of potential causal mechanisms, we synthesised 108 highly resolved sedimentary time series and 18 decadal‐scale monitoring records from north temperate‐subarctic lakes. We demonstrate that: (1) cyanobacteria have increased significantly since c. 1800 ce, (2) they have increased disproportionately relative to other phytoplankton, and (3) cyanobacteria increased more rapidly post c. 1945 ce. Variation among lakes in the rates of increase was explained best by nutrient concentration (phosphorus and nitrogen), and temperature was of secondary importance. Although cyanobacterial biomass has declined in some managed lakes with reduced nutrient influx, the larger spatio‐temporal scale of sedimentary records show continued increases in cyanobacteria throughout the north temperate‐subarctic regions.
Cost‐effectiveness of screening for HLA‐A*31:01 prior to initiation of carbamazepine in epilepsy
Authors: Plumpton Catrin O. , Yip Vincent L. M. , Alfirevic Ana , Marson Anthony G. , Pirmohamed Munir , Hughes Dyfrig A.
Published: February 2015

Objective

Carbamazepine causes severe cutaneous adverse drug reactions that may be predicted by the presence of the HLA‐A*31:01 allele in northern European populations. There is uncertainty as to whether routine testing of patients with epilepsy is cost‐effective. We conducted an economic evaluation of HLA‐A*31:01 testing from the perspective of the National Health Service (NHS) in the United Kingdom.

Methods

A short‐term, decision analytic model was developed to estimate the outcomes and costs associated with a policy of routine testing (with lamotrigine prescribed for patients who test positive) versus the current standard of care, which is carbamazepine prescribed without testing. A Markov model was used to estimate total costs and quality‐adjusted life‐years (QALYs) over a lifetime to account for differences in drug effectiveness and the long‐term consequences of adverse drug reactions.

Results

Testing reduced the expected rate of cutaneous adverse drug reactions from 780 to 700 per 10,000 patients. The incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio for pharmacogenetic testing versus standard care was £12,808 per QALY gained. The probability of testing being cost‐effective at a threshold of £20,000 per QALY was 0.80, but the results were sensitive to estimated remission rates for alternative antiepileptic drugs (AEDs).

Significance

Routine testing for HLA‐A*31:01 in order to reduce the incidence of cutaneous adverse drug reactions in patients being prescribed carbamazepine for epilepsy is likely to represent a cost‐effective use of health care resources.
Venture–Backed Firms: How Does Venture Capital Involvement Affect Their Likelihood of Going Public or Being Acquired?
Authors: Ragozzino Roberto , Blevins Dane P.
Published: February 2015

This paper investigates how venture capitalists’ involvement in new ventures affects the likelihood of entrepreneurial exit, either via an acquisition or via an initial public offering. We examine the prominence of venture capitals (VCs), the number of VCs invested in a company, as well as the timing, duration, and magnitude of their investments in new ventures. We find that each of these dimensions directly explains entrepreneurial exit, although their effects tend to differ depending on whether the exit occurs via an acquisition or an initial public offering (IPO). These results withstand several robustness checks and offer a more precise account of how the relationship between new ventures and VC firms unfolds in the early years of the entrepreneurial cycle.
Effect of increased adiposity on insulin sensitivity and adipokine concentrations in horses and ponies fed a high fat diet, with or without a once daily high glycaemic meal
Authors: Bamford N. J. , Potter S. J. , Harris P. A. , Bailey S. R.
Published: February 2015

Reasons for performing study

The relative influences of obesity and adaptation to high glycaemic diets on the development of insulin dysregulation in equids are unclear.

Objectives

To determine whether increased adiposityper seis responsible for the decreased insulin sensitivity often observed in obese horses or whether a dietary glycaemic response is critically important.

Study design

Randomised controlled trial.

Methods

Eighteen horses and ponies were studied over a 20‐week period. They receivedad libitumhay plus either a high fat (low glycaemic) diet (FAT; n = 6) or a similar (isocaloric) diet containing 1.5 g/kg bwt once daily glucose (GLU; n = 6) to induce obesity. A third group received a control ration (CON; n = 6). Adiposity was monitored using body condition score (BCS) and total body fat mass percentage (TBFM) determined using a deuterium oxide dilution technique. Insulin sensitivity was assessed using a frequently sampled i.v. glucose tolerance test. Plasma concentrations of glucose, insulin, leptin, adiponectin, tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) and serum amyloid A (SAA) were measured.

Results

TheFATandGLUgroups became obese (BCS≥7) whereas theCONgroup maintained moderate condition (BCS≤6). Total body fat mass and leptin concentrations were increased in theFATandGLUgroups than in theCONgroup (P<0.001 and P = 0.003, respectively). Values for both insulin‐dependent (SI) and insulin‐independent (Sg) glucose disposal were higher in theGLUgroup compared with theFATandCONgroups (P = 0.006 and P = 0.03, respectively). There were no differences in adiponectin,TNF‐α orSAAbetween groups (all P≥0.4).

Conclusions

Increased adiposity did not reduce insulin sensitivity in either theFATor theGLUdiet groups, suggesting that obesityper semight not be responsible for the lowerSIvalues reported in previous studies. Contrary to expectations, once daily glucose appeared to increase insulin sensitivity. Further work is required into the dietary causes of insulin resistance in equids.
From forest to cropland and pasture systems: a critical review of soil organic carbon stocks changes in Amazonia
Authors: Fujisaki Kenji , Perrin Anne‐Sophie , Desjardins Thierry , Bernoux Martial , Balbino Luiz Carlos , Brossard Michel
Published: February 2015

The impact of deforestation on soil organic carbon (SOC) stocks is important in the context of climate change and agricultural soil use. Trends of SOC stock changes after agroecosystem establishment vary according to the spatial scale considered, and factors explaining these trends may differ sometimes according to meta‐analyses. We have reviewed the knowledge about changes in SOC stocks in Amazonia after the establishment of pasture or cropland, sought relationships between observed changes and soil, climatic variables and management practices, and synthesized the δ13C measured in pastures. Our dataset consisted of 21 studies mostly synchronic, across 52 sites (Brazil, Colombia, French Guiana, Suriname), totalling 70 forest–agroecosystem comparisons. We found that pastures (n = 52, mean age = 17.6 years) had slightly higher SOC stocks than forest (+6.8 ± 3.1 %), whereas croplands (n = 18, mean age = 8.7 years) had lower SOC stocks than forest (−8.5 ± 2.9 %). Annual precipitation and SOC stocks under forest had no effect on the SOC changes in the agroecosystems. For croplands, we found a lower SOC loss than other meta‐analyses, but the short time period after deforestation here could have reduced this loss. There was no clear effect of tillage on the SOC response. Management of pastures, whether they were degraded/nominal/improved, had no significant effect on SOC response. δ13C measurements on 16 pasture chronosequences showed that decay of forest‐derived SOC was variable, whereas pasture‐derived SOC was less so and was characterized by an accumulation plateau of 20 Mg SOC ha−1 after 20 years. The large uncertainties in SOC response observed could be derived from the chronosequence approach, sensitive to natural soil variability and to human management practices. This study emphasizes the need for diachronic and long‐term studies, associated with better knowledge of agroecosystem management.
Contributing for Myself, but Free riding for My Group?
Authors: Iida Yoshio , Schwieren Christiane
Published: February 2015

Many real-world decisions are made by individuals as representatives of groups. Most research, however, studies either individuals or groups as decision-makers. This paper explores whether there is a general difference between a decision made as an individual and as a representative of a group in the context of a public good game. We conducted a series of experiments to test this question and to understand mechanisms contributing to potential differences. We found that representatives contributed less than individuals when they could not communicate with their constituency. However, when they could discuss their strategy before playing, they contributed at least as much as individual decision-makers. Furthermore, when they could justify their decision after playing, they contributed even more than individual decision-makers. We discuss potential reasons for this and directions for future research.
Preparation and evaluation of novel octylmethoxycinnamate‐loaded solid lipid nanoparticles
Authors: Liu X.‐h. , Liang X.‐z. , Fang X. , Zhang W.‐P.
Published: February 2015

Synopsis

Objective

Octylmethoxycinnamate (OMC)‐loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) were prepared by ultrasonic emulsification method. Effects of process variables and formulation composition were investigated on particle size and polydispersity index (PI), and the UV absorbance. Effect of OMC concentration on entrapment efficiency (EE) was also studied.

Methods

The optimal formulation was characterized and evaluated by environment emission scanning electron microscopy (ESEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR). In addition, the degradations of OMC from SLNs and OMC conventional emulsion were compared.

Results

The composition of optimal formulation was determined as 5% (w/w) of solid lipid, 7% (w/w) of emulsifier and 9% of loaded OMC, resulting in a particle size of 392.8 nm, and EE of 88.73%, LD of 38.05% under the preparation condition of 6 min of sonication, 400 W of sonication power. ESEM study showed spherical particles with smooth surface. DSC studies indicated OMC encapsulation within the nanoparticle matrix. The characteristic peaks for OMC‐SLNs stood at 1710, 1604, 1513, 1465 and 830.3 cm−1. The degradation rate of OMC was decreased when using SLNs formulations compared to conventional emulsion.

Conclusion

Hence, the developed SLNs can be used as sunscreen carrier for improve the stability.
Effect of periodontal dressing on non‐surgical periodontal treatment outcomes: a systematic review
Authors: Monje A , Kramp AR , Criado E , Suárez‐López del Amo F , Garaicoa‐Pazmiño C , Gargallo‐Albiol J , Wang H‐L
Published: February 2015

Background

Periodontal dressing has been advocated and showed some positive outcomes for placing over the surgical site after periodontal surgery. However, little is known about its effect on non‐surgical therapy.

Purpose

The aim of this review was to assess the clinical effect of periodontal dressing when used after non‐surgical therapy.

Material and methods

Two examiners performed an electronic search in several databases for relevant articles published in English up to November 2013. Selected studies were randomized human clinical trials (prospective or retrospective trials) with the clear aim of investigating the effect of periodontal dressing placement upon periodontal non‐surgical mechanical therapy. Data were extracted from the included articles for analysis.

Results

Three randomized clinical trials fulfilled the inclusion criteria and thus were included in the data analysis. Statistical analysis could not be carried out due to the lack of clear data of the included studies. However, descriptive analysis showed its effectiveness in improving clinical parameters such as gain of clinical attachment level and reduction of probing pocket depth.

Conclusion

Placement of periodontal dressing right after non‐surgical mechanical therapy can be beneficial in improving overall short‐term clinical outcomes, although more controlled studies are still needed to validate this finding.
Raymund Schwager on the Dramatic Justice and Mercy of God
Authors: Brown Benjamin
Published: February 2015

This article explores and develops Raymund Schwager's understanding of the nature of justice and mercy, especially in the face of the Christian doctrine of hell. Schwager follows Anselm of Canterbury closely in seeing a deep harmony between justice and mercy, finding their unity in an expansive notion of God's goodness, which gives abundantly but always also in a way that respects the dignity of the receiver. This unity can thus only be understood in the context of the dramatic interplay of freedoms. An overview of Schwager's theological project provides the background for then exploring his notions of justice, mercy, freedom, self‐judgement and hell. The article concludes with the exploration of some of the logical consequences of Schwager's thought.
Drainage Impacts on Surficial Water Retention Capacity of a Prairie Pothole Watershed
Authors: Kessler Andrew C. , Gupta Satish C.
Published: February 2015

Wetland restoration has been proposed as a tool to mitigate excess runoff and associated nonpoint source pollution in the Upper Midwestern United States. This study quantified the surficial water retention capacity of existing and drained wetlands for the Greater Blue Earth River Basin (GBERB), an intensively drained agricultural watershed. Using airborne light detection and ranging, the historic depressional storage was determined to be 152 mm. Individual depression analysis suggested that the restoration of most drained areas would have little impact on the storage capacity of the GBERB because the majority (53%) of retention capacity was in large depressions (>40 ha) which comprised only a small proportion (<1.0) of the observed depressions. Accounting for change in storage and the difference in annual evapotranspiration (ET) between wetlands and the croplands that replaced them, restoration of all depressions in the Minnesota portion of GBERB would provide a maximum of 131 mm additional capacity over and above the modern day capacity (193 mm; 56 mm depressional storage; 60 mm wetland ET; and 77 mm cropland ET). Considering that depressional depths in smaller areas are within the range of uncertainty of the lidar digital elevation models and larger depressions have the most storage, we conclude that efforts to increase the surficial water‐holding capacity of the GBERB would be best served in the restoration of large (>40 ha) depressions.
TNF‐alpha gene polymorphisms can help to predict response to etanercept in psoriatic patients
Authors: De Simone C. , Farina M. , Maiorino A. , Fanali C. , Perino F. , Flamini A. , Caldarola G. , Sgambato A.
Published: February 2015

Background

Genetic factors might have a role for lack of therapeutic response to anti‐TNF‐alpha agents, as previously suggested in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.

Objectives

We evaluated the role of the main TNF‐alpha polymorphisms (−238G>A, −308G>A, −857C>T) in predicting the response to etanercept, an anti‐TNF‐alpha fusion protein.

Material and Methods

Genomic DNA was extracted from buccal epithelial cells in a series of 97 psoriatic patients who received etanercept for at least 3 months. Patients were classified as responders, if they achieved a PASI improvement ≥75% after 12 weeks of etanercept treatment, and non‐responders, if PASI improvement was <75%. Single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in TNF‐alpha gene (−238G>A, −308G>A, −857C>T) were genotyped by PCR restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) assays.

Results

We found that patients heterozygous (GA) for the −238G>A polymorphism were more likely not responsive to therapy compared to the GG genotype. In fact, the GA genotype was found in 5/59 (8·5%) responders and in 14/38 (36·8%) non‐responders (P = 0·001). A significant relationship with therapy was also observed for the –308G>A polymorphisms. In fact, the GG, GA and AA genotypes were detected in 48 (81·4%), 9 (15·3%) and 2 (3·4%) of the 59 responders and in 22 (57·9%), 11 (28·9%) and 5 (13·2%) of the 38 non‐responder patients (P = 0·03). No association with therapy was observed for the −857C>T polymorphisms.

Conclusion

Our study supports the role of TNF‐alpha polymorphisms in predicting the response to anti‐TNF‐alpha agents. In particular, we found that the presence of −238G>A and −308G>A polymorphisms is associated with poor response to a 3‐month therapy with etanercept. However, our data have yet to be validated in larger cohorts.
Mental health needs and availability of mental health care for children and adolescents with intellectual disability in Berlin
Authors: Soltau B. , Biedermann J. , Hennicke K. , Fydrich T.
Published: February 2015

Background

The increased risk of mental health problems in children and adolescents with intellectual disability (ID) has been reported in several studies. However, almost no research has been conducted on parents' experiences with the general mental health system. We have investigated the prevalence of emotional and behavioural problems in children with ID as well as the availability and quality of mental health care from the parents' point of view.

Methods

Teachers of specialised schools for ID in Berlin were asked to complete the Teacher's Report Form (TRF) of the Child Behavior Checklist. Information was collected for 1226 children and adolescents aged 6–18 years with mild to profound ID (response 70.5%). The availability and quality of mental health care was assessed by a questionnaire given to parents who had already been seeking help for their children. A total of 330 parents completed the questionnaires (response 62.0%). In addition to univariate analysis, we conducted multiple logistic regressions regarding the psychopathology reported by teachers (TRF‐syndrome scales) and difficulties concerning mental health care reported by parents for a paired sample of 308 children.

Results

Overall, 52.4% of the children and adolescents with ID had a total problem score on the TRF in the deviant range (47.1% when eliminating four items reflecting cognitive deficits). Compared with the general population normative sample of children, this is a three‐time higher prevalence. The most striking problems were thought problems (schizoid and obsessive–compulsive), aggressive behaviour, attention problems and social problems. Parents whose children had more severe behavioural or emotional dysfunction reported more difficulties with the mental health system. From the parents' point of view, mental health professionals frequently did not feel responsible or were not sufficiently skilled for the treatment of children with ID. As a consequence, 96% of all parents were longing for specialised in‐ and outpatient services.

Conclusions

This study confirms the findings from other studies regarding the high rate of co‐occurrence of ID and mental health problems in youths. Results indicate that both are strongly requested by parents: specialised in‐ and outpatient services, as well as more professional general services and equitable treatment for all children, with and without ID.
Joint attention behaviours and vocabulary development in children with Down syndrome
Authors: Zampini L. , Salvi A. , D'Odorico L.
Published: February 2015

Background

Because of their difficulties in language development, various studies have focussed on the precursors of linguistic skills in children with Down syndrome. However, data on the predictive role of joint attention on language development in this population are inconsistent. The present study aimed to analyse attention behaviours in a group of children with Down syndrome. The existence of both concurrent and longitudinal relationships between joint attention and vocabulary development was investigated.

Method

The participants were 18, 24‐month‐old, Italian children with Down syndrome. The children's attention skills were assessed during semi‐structured free‐play sessions in interaction with their mothers. A nominal exhaustive scheme was applied to code the children's behaviour. Moreover, the children's vocabulary development (both receptive and expressive) was assessed with the Italian version of the MacArthur‐Bates Communicative Development Inventory at both 24 and 30 months.

Results

Data analyses showed that children with Down syndrome spent a large part of the interactive play session in joint attention situations. Moreover, the children's behaviour of proposing a joint attention focus to their communicative partners appeared to be a significant predictor of the children's vocabulary comprehension skills as assessed 6 months later.

Conclusions

These results support the hypothesis of continuity between preverbal precursors and vocabulary development in a population with atypical development.
Morphology and molecular phylogeny of Chaetoceros dayaensis sp. nov. (Bacillariophyceae), characterized by two 90° rotations of the resting spore during maturation
Authors: Li Yang , Zhu Suying , Lundholm Nina , Lü Songhui
Published: February 2015

Recent studies suggest that a high species diversity of Chaetoceros exists in tropical waters. Based on plankton samples from Chinese tropical waters, Daya Bay of the South China Sea, a new species, Chaetoceros dayaensis sp. nov., is described. Vegetative cells and resting spores were examined by light microscopy as well as transmission and scanning electron microscopy. The nuclear rDNA molecular markers SSU, ITS and D1–D3 of LSU, and the chloroplast rbcL gene were sequenced for information on phylogenetic relationships. The species is characterized by the presence of two 90° rotations of the resting spore during maturation. First a rotation in the apical plane of the mother cell resulting in the valvar plane of the resting spore turning from parallel to perpendicular to that of the mother cell, and a second 90° rotation in the valvar plane of the mother cell resulting in the valve faces of the resting spore turning from facing narrow girdle view to broad girdle view of the mother cell. It is the first report of two 90° rotations of resting spores during maturation in Chaetoceros. Based on this, the maturation rotation of the resting spore of C. rotosporus was reevaluated. C. dayaensis belongs to the subgenus Hyalochaete Gran and we suggest placing it in the section Laciniosa, although a new subdivision of Chaetoceros is needed. The description of C. dayaensis was based on analyses of the phylogenetic relationships combined with morphological comparisons with other similar species.
Plasma kinetics, excretion in milk of eprinomectin, and its efficacy against Hypoderma spp. following topical administration in yaks
Authors: Yu T. , Shi Y. L. , Cai J. Z. , Li C. H. , Lei M. T. , Pan B. L. , Wang M.
Published: February 2015

The plasma pharmacokinetics and mammary excretion of eprinomectin were determined in dairy yaks following topical administration at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg. The kinetics of plasma and milk concentrations were analyzed using a noncompartmental model. Plasma and milk concentrations of eprinomectin increased to reach maximal concentrations of 5.45 ± 2.84 and 2.29 ± 0.90 ng/mL at a Tmax of 1.79 ± 0.57 and 2.00 ± 0.82 days, respectively. The concentration of eprinomectin in plasma was remained >0.5 ng/mL for more than 30 days after administration. The mean residence times of eprinomectin in plasma and milk were 14.73 ± 6.22 and 9.37 ± 2.81 days, respectively. The AUC value in plasma (55.89 ± 18.16 ng day/mL) was threefold greater than that in milk (18.02 ± 6.48 ng day/mL). The AUC milk/plasma ratio was 0.33 ± 0.08. The systemic availability of eprinomectin in yaks was lower than that observed value in other domestic bovines. The low level of eprinomectin excretion in milk suggests that eprinomectin can be used in yaks with zero milk‐withdrawal time. The efficacy of eprinomectin against naturally acquired larvae of Hypoderma spp. was also determined in yaks. Topically administrated eprinomectin at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg was 100% efficacious against larvae of Hypoderma bovis, H. lineatum, and H. sinense.
Criminal Justice Through “Colorblind” Lenses: A Call to Examine the
Mutual Constitution of Race and Criminal Justice
Authors: Van Cleve Nicole Gonzalez , Mayes Lauren
Published: February 2015

A central paradox defines the scholarship of criminal justice and race:
while racial disparities manifest throughout the criminal justice system, it
is often portrayed as race‐neutral. We identify two central paradigm shifts:
one in penology (that focuses on risk) and one in racial ideology (that
focuses on colorblindness) that create a perfect storm; criminal justice
apparatuses produce an illusion of racial neutrality while exacerbating
racial disproportionality. We join an expanding list of scholars encouraging
discourse that engages critical race theory on an empirical level and import
this approach to the consideration of race within the criminal justice
system. We identify issues with the conceptualization and operationalization
of race as a variable within criminal justice research and recommend that
scholars consider the mutual constitution of race and criminal justice. That
is, scholarship must examine and empirically measure how race and criminal
justice institutions actively form and inform each other.
Maternal and infant factors associated with reasons for introducing solid foods
Authors: Brown Amy , Rowan Hannah
Published: February 2015

The current UK Department of Health advice is to introduce solid foods to infants at around 6 months of age, when the infant is showing signs of developmental readiness for solid foods. However, many mothers introduce solid foods before this time, and for a wide variety of reasons, some of which may not promote healthy outcomes. The aim of the current study was to examine infant and maternal characteristics associated with different reasons for introducing solid foods. Seven hundred fifty‐six mothers with an infant aged 6–12 months old completed a questionnaire describing their main reason for introducing solid foods alongside demographic questions, infant weight, gender, breast/formula feeding and timing of introduction to solid foods. The majority of mothers introduced solid foods for reasons explicitly stated in the Department of Health advice as not signs of readiness for solid foods. These reasons centred on perceived infant lack of sleep, hunger or unsettled behaviour. Maternal age, education and parity, infant weight and gender and breast/formula feeding choices were all associated with reasons for introduction. A particular association was found between breastfeeding and perceiving the infant to be hungrier or needing more than milk could offer. Male infants were perceived as hungry and needing more energy than female infants. Notably, signs of readiness may be misinterpreted with some stating this reason for infants weaned prior to 16 weeks. The findings are important for those working to support and educate new parents with the introduction of solid foods in understanding the factors that might influence them.
Differential ferritin interpretation methods that adjust for inflammation yield discrepant iron deficiency prevalence
Authors: Nel Elsmari , Kruger Herculina S. , Baumgartner Jeannine , Faber Mieke , Smuts Cornelius M.
Published: February 2015

We reassessed the iron deficiency (ID) prevalence in a South African trial that formed part of the International Research on Infant Supplementation study by comparing four methods that account for the high prevalence of acute (28.6%) and chronic (41.8%) inflammation observed in the study. Serum ferritin (SF) was measured as marker of iron status in 192 apparently healthy, 4–13‐month‐old infants. Alpha‐1 glycoprotein and C‐reactive protein concentrations were determined to indicate chronic and acute inflammation, respectively. The ID prevalence was obtained by four methods that adjust for inflammation: (1) excluding infants with inflammation; (2) using a higher cut‐off (SF < 30 μg L−1); (3) using different cut‐offs for infants with vs. without inflammation (SF < 30 μg L−1 vs. SF < 12 μg L−1); and (4) adjusting SF concentrations with correction factors (CFs) were compared with a reference method (SF < 12 μg L−1) not accounting for inflammation. Using the higher SF cut‐off method resulted in the highest ID prevalence (52.1%), followed by using two different cut‐offs (31.8%), using CFs (21.9%) and excluding subjects with inflammation (17.6%). The CF method showed the best agreement with the reference method. Disregarding inflammation resulted in a significantly lower ID prevalence (17.2%). ID anaemia (IDA) prevalence ranged from 13.2% to 24.5%, with the lowest prevalence (12.0%) for the reference method. Our analysis highlights the challenge of assessing ID and IDA using only SF as marker of iron status in the presence of inflammation. We demonstrate the importance of measuring inflammation markers to account for their elevating effect on SF.
Heterozygote advantage at MHC DRB may influence response to infectious disease epizootics
Authors: Osborne Amy J. , Pearson John , Negro Sandra S. , Chilvers B. Louise , Kennedy Martin A. , Gemmell Neil J.
Published: February 2015

The effect of MHC polymorphism on individual fitness variation in the wild remains equivocal; however, much evidence suggests that heterozygote advantage is a major determinant. To understand the contribution of MHC polymorphism to individual disease resistance or susceptibility in natural populations, we investigated two MHC class II B loci, DQB and DRB, in the New Zealand sea lion (NZSL, Phocarctos hookeri). The NZSL is a threatened species which is unusually susceptible to death by bacterial infection at an early age; it has suffered three bacterial induced epizootics resulting in high mortality levels of young pups since 1997. The MHC DQB and DRB haplotypes of dead NZSL pups with known cause of death (bacteria, enteritis or trauma) were sequenced and reconstructed, compared to pups that survived beyond 2 months of age, and distinct MHC DRB allele frequency and genotype differences were identified. Two findings were striking: (i) one DRB allele was present only in dead pups, and (ii) one heterozygous DRB genotype, common in live pups, was absent from dead pups. These results are consistent with some functional relationship with these variants and suggest heterozygote advantage is operating at DRB. We found no association between heterozygosity and fitness at 17 microsatellite loci, indicating that general heterozygosity is not responsible for the effect on fitness detected here. This result may be a consequence of recurrent selection by multiple pathogen assault over recent years and highlights the importance of heterozygote advantage at MHC as a potential mechanism for fitness differences in wild populations.
Different ornaments signal male health and MHC variation in two populations of a warbler
Authors: Whittingham Linda A. , Freeman‐Gallant Corey R. , Taff Conor C. , Dunn Peter O.
Published: February 2015

Male traits that signal health and vigour are used by females to choose better quality mates, but in some cases the male trait selected by females differs among populations. Multiple male traits can be maintained through female mate choice if both traits are equally honest indicators of male quality, but tests of this prediction are rare. By choosing males based on such traits, females could gain direct benefits from males (assistance with parental care), but when females choose extra‐pair mates based on these traits, females gain only male sperm, and potentially indirect genetic benefits for their offspring. In common yellowthroats (Geothylpis trichas), female choice of extra‐pair mates targets two different plumage ornaments: the black mask in a Wisconsin population and the yellow bib in a New York population. Previously, we found that the black mask in Wisconsin is related to greater major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II variation, which in turn signals better survival and disease resistance. In this study, we examined the signalling function of the yellow bib in New York to test whether it signals the same aspects of male quality as the black mask in Wisconsin. As predicted, we found that the yellow bib in New York is most closely associated with MHC variation, which also signals survival and resistance to blood parasites. Thus, the ornament preferred by females differs between the two populations, but the different ornaments signal similar aspects of male health and genetic quality, specifically information regarding MHC variation and potential indirect genetic benefits to females.
Revision of fleas of the genus Plocopsylla belonging to the ‘angusticeps–lewisi’ complex in the Andean biogeographic region, with the description of a new species
Authors: SANCHEZ J. , BEAUCOURNU J.‐C. , LARESCHI M.
Published: February 2015

In Argentina, the Andean biogeographic region accommodates the most diverse population of fleas in the country. The Craneopsyllinae (Siphonaptera: Stephanocircidae) represent one of the most commonly found subfamilies in this region and show some endemism and high diversity. Plocopsylla is the most diverse genus of Craneopsyllinae; it includes 10 species mainly distributed in the Patagonian subregion, which parasitize sigmodontine rodents (Rodentia: Cricetidae). We describe and illustrate the morphology of the aedeagus in species of Plocopsylla that belong to the ‘angusticeps–lewisi’ complex. This character is of diagnostic value in differentiating among species. A new species of this complex, Plocopsylla (Plocopsylla) linardii sp. n., is described and identified by the shape and chaetotaxy of the distal arm of sternite IX, as well as by the shape of the median dorsal lobe of the aedeagus. New host associations for this complex and range extensions for most of its species are reported. Plocopsylla (P.) silewi is recorded for the first time in Argentina. The southern limits of the distributions of Plocopsylla (P.) lewisi and Plocopsylla (P.) wilesi are extended to Santa Cruz Province. The angusticeps–lewisi complex is found for the first time in San Juan Province. The information may be useful in epidemiological studies of flea‐borne diseases.
Vestibular migraine
Authors: Furman Joseph M. , Balaban Carey D.
Published: February 2015

Vestibular migraine is now considered a distinct diagnostic entity by both the Barany Society and the International Headache Society. The recognition of vestibular migraine as a diagnostic entity required decades and was presaged by several reports indicating that a large proportion of patients with migraine headaches have vestibular symptoms and that a large proportion of patients with undiagnosed episodic vestibular symptoms have migraine headache. Despite the availability of diagnostic criteria for vestibular migraine, challenges to diagnosis include variability in terms of the character of dizziness, the presence or absence of clearly defined attacks, the duration of attacks, and the temporal association between headache or other migrainous features and vestibular symptoms. Also, symptoms of vestibular migraine often overlap with symptoms of other causes of dizziness, especially Ménière's disease and benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). This article will discuss the demographics, epidemiology, clinical manifestations, physical examination findings, laboratory testing, comorbidities, treatment options, and pathophysiology of vestibular migraine. Future research in the field of vestibular migraine should include both clinical and basic science efforts to better understand the pathophysiology of this condition. Controlled treatment trials for vestibular migraine are desperately needed.
Saccadic palsy following cardiac surgery: a review and new hypothesis
Authors: Eggers Scott D.Z. , Horn Anja K.E. , Roeber Sigrun , Härtig Wolfgang , Nair Govind , Reich Daniel S. , John Leigh R.
Published: February 2015

The ocular motor system provides several advantages for studying the brain, including well‐defined populations of neurons that contribute to specific eye movements. Generation of rapid eye movements (saccades) depends on excitatory burst neurons (EBN) and omnipause neurons (OPN) within the brainstem, both types of cells are highly active. Experimental lesions of EBN and OPN cause slowing or complete loss of saccades. We report a patient who developed a permanent, selective saccadic palsy following cardiac surgery. When she died several years later, surprisingly, autopsy showed preservation of EBN and OPN. We therefore considered other mechanisms that could explain her saccadic palsy. Recent work has shown that both EBN and OPN are ensheathed by perineuronal nets (PN), which are specialized extracellular matrix structures that may help stabilize synaptic contacts, promote local ion homeostasis, or play a protective role in certain highly active neurons. Here, we review the possibility that damage to PN, rather than to the neurons they support, could lead to neuronal dysfunction—such as saccadic palsy. We also suggest how future studies could test this hypothesis, which may provide insights into the vulnerability of other active neurons in the nervous system that depend on PN.
Acrophobia impairs visual exploration and balance during standing and walking
Authors: Brandt Thomas , Kugler Günter , Schniepp Roman , Wuehr Max , Huppert Doreen
Published: February 2015

This review shows that persons with visual height intolerance or acrophobia exhibit typical restrictions of visual exploration and imbalance during stance and locomotion when exposed to heights. Eye and head movements are reduced, and gaze freezes to the horizon. Eye movements tend to be horizontal saccades during stance and vertical saccades during locomotion. Body posture is characterized by a stiffening of the musculoskeletal system with increased open‐loop diffusion activity of body sway, a lowered sensory feedback threshold for closed‐loop balance control, and increased co‐contraction of antigravity leg and neck muscles. Walking is slow and cautious, broad‐based, consisting of small, flat‐footed steps with less dynamic vertical oscillation of the body and head. Anxiety appears to be the critical symptom that causes the typical but not specific eye and body motor behavior, which can be described as tonic immobility. Guidelines for preventing acrophobia, which could be an add‐on to behavioral therapy, are provided.
DNA and RNA editing of retrotransposons accelerate mammalian genome evolution
Authors: Knisbacher Binyamin A. , Levanon Erez Y.
Published: February 2015

Genome evolution is commonly viewed as a gradual process that is driven by random mutations that accumulate over time. However, DNA‐ and RNA‐editing enzymes have been identified that can accelerate evolution by actively modifying the genomically encoded information. The apolipoprotein B mRNA editing enzymes, catalytic polypeptide‐like (APOBECs) are potent restriction factors that can inhibit retroelements by cytosine‐to‐uridine editing of retroelement DNA after reverse transcription. In some cases, a retroelement may successfully integrate into the genome despite being hypermutated. Such events introduce unique sequences into the genome and are thus a source of genomic innovation. adenosine deaminases that act on RNA (ADARs) catalyze adenosine‐to‐inosine editing in double‐stranded RNA, commonly formed by oppositely oriented retroelements. The RNA editing confers plasticity to the transcriptome by generating many transcript variants from a single genomic locus. If the editing produces a beneficial variant, the genome may maintain the locus that produces the RNA‐edited transcript for its novel function. Here, we discuss how these two powerful editing mechanisms, which both target inserted retroelements, facilitate expedited genome evolution.