bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of emulsifying salts containing potassium on the melting properties of block‐type dairy cheese analogue
Authors: Schatz Kristina , Hoffmann Wolfgang , Schrader Katrin , Maurer Andrea
Published: March 2014

Substituting sodium with potassium in emulsifying salts of pasteurized block‐type dairy cheese analogues was investigated. Rennet casein and butter were used as protein and fat sources for the manufacture of a product with 51% dry matter and 50% fat in dry matter. Different emulsifying salt blends contained sodium or potassium citrate and sodium polyphosphate. The cheese analogues were tested for their melting properties by oscillation rheometry and by empirical tests for meltability and fat release after 2 days, 4 and 12 weeks of cold storage. A recipe containing about 60% less sodium and a typical standard recipe without potassium showed very similar results during 4 weeks of cold storage.
Microbial and physiochemical changes in yoghurts containing different Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus strains in association with Lactobacillus plantarum as an adjunct culture
Authors: Mirlohi Maryam , Soleimanian‐Zad Sabihe , Dokhani Shahram , Sheikh‐Zeinodin Mahmoud
Published: March 2014

Two strains of slow and normal acid‐producing Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus, mixed separately with Streptococcus thermophilus, were used in the preparation of yoghurt with or without Lactobacillus plantarum A7. Viable cell counts of lactic bacteria, pH, lactic acid and acetic acid concentrations, soluble nitrogen content, spontaneous syneresis, viscosity and firmness were studied at selected points during the refrigerated storage period. Results showed that survival of L. plantarum A7 in yoghurt was independent of the acidification capability of L. delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus strains which had already been characterised in their pure culture. Thus, in the preparation of probiotic yoghurt, using slow acid‐producing L. delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus strain in combination with nondairy lactobacilli postfermentation acidification is not restricted but instability in other physicochemical properties of the yoghurt may be expected.
Echinoderm microtubule‐associated protein‐like 4‐anaplastic lymphoma kinase rearrangement and epidermal growth factor receptor mutation coexisting in Chinese patients with lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Zhu Jianfei , Cai Ling , Yang Haoxian , Wen Yinsheng , Wang Junye , Rong Tiehua , Shao Jianyong , Zhang Lanjun
Published: March 2014

Background

The echinoderm microtubule‐associated protein‐like 4‐anaplastic lymphoma kinase (EML4‐ALK) rearrangement is almost in mutual exclusion to epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and v‐Ki‐ras2 Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog (KRAS) mutations, with rare exceptions. This study aimed to search for the coexisting gene alterations in Chinese patients with lung adenocarcinoma (LAC).

Methods

We detected mutations in the EGFR, KRAS, and ALK gene rearrangements in samples from 131 Chinese patients with LAC. ALK rearrangements were identified by fluorescent in situ hybridization. Mutations in EGFR (exons 19 to 21) and KRAS (codons 12 and 13) were determined by real time polymerase chain reaction.

Results

All patients were classified into four distinct genotype groups: EGFR mutations (n = 63; 48.1%), ALK rearrangements (n = 9; 6.9%), KRAS mutations (n = 8; 6.1%), and the wild‐type (unmutated) genotype of all three genes (WT/WT/WT) (n = 53; 40.5%). Interestingly, two never‐smoking women (2/131, 1.5%) harbored coexisting ALK rearrangement and EGFR mutation. ALK rearrangement occurred more frequently in young patients (8/9) (P = 0.687), non‐smokers (8/9) (P = 0.077), and those who had no family history of LAC (8/9) (P = 1.000); all KRAS mutations occurred in the EGFR wild type (P = 0.007). KRAS mutations were generally detected in young patients (6/8) (P = 0.658) and in those who had no family history (7/8) (P = 1.000); EGFR mutations correlated with gender (P = 0.001), and smoking status (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Two patients harboring both EGFR mutation and EML4‐ALK rearrangement were detected in this study. Our data was apparently inconsistent with the traditional view that the EML4‐ALK fusion gene in patients is resistant to EGFR‐TKIs.
Calculating second derivatives of population growth rates for ecology and evolution
Authors: Shyu Esther , Caswell Hal
Published: March 2014

Second derivatives of the population growth rate measure the curvature of its response to demographic, physiological or environmental parameters. The second derivatives quantify the response of sensitivity results to perturbations, provide a classification of types of selection and provide one way to calculate sensitivities of the stochastic growth rate.

Using matrix calculus, we derive the second derivatives of three population growth rate measures: the discrete‐time growth rate λ, the continuous‐time growth rate r = log λ and the net reproductive rate R0, which measures per‐generation growth.

We present a suite of formulae for the second derivatives of each growth rate and show how to compute these derivatives with respect to projection matrix entries and to lower‐level parameters affecting those matrix entries.

We also illustrate several ecological and evolutionary applications for these second derivative calculations with a case study for the tropical herb Calathea ovandensis.
Temporal validation plots: quantifying how well correlative species distribution models predict species' range changes over time
Authors: Rapacciuolo Giovanni , Roy David B. , Gillings Simon , Purvis Andy
Published: March 2014

The use of data documenting how species' distributions have changed over time is crucial for testing how well correlative species distribution models (SDMs) predict species' range changes. So far, however, little attention has been given to developing a reliable methodological framework for using such data.

We develop a new tool – the temporal validation (TV) plot – specifically aimed at making use of species' distribution records at two times for a comprehensive assessment of the prediction accuracy of SDMs over time.

We extend existing presence–absence calibration plots to make use of distribution records from two time periods. TV plots visualize the agreement between change in modelled probabilities of presence and the probability of observing sites gained or lost between time periods. We then present three measures of prediction accuracy that can be easily calculated from TV plots.

We present our methodological framework using a virtual species in a simplified landscape and then provide a real‐world case study using distribution records for two species of breeding birds from two time periods of intensive recording effort across Great Britain.

Together with existing approaches, TV plots and their associated measures offer a simple tool for testing how well SDMs model species' observed range changes – perhaps the best way available to assess their ability to predict likely future changes.
Amphibian and reptile communities and functional groups over a land‐use gradient in a coastal tropical forest landscape of high richness and endemicity
Authors: Trimble M. J. , van Aarde R. J.
Published: March 2014

Information on the response of herpetofauna to different land uses is limited although important for land‐use planning to support conservation in human‐modified landscapes. Although transformation is dogmatically associated with extinction, species respond idiosyncratically to land‐use change, and persistence of species in habitat fragments may depend on careful management of the human‐modified matrix. We sampled herpetofauna over a vegetation‐type gradient representative of regional land uses [old‐growth forest, degraded forest, acacia woodland (i.e. new‐growth forest), eucalyptus plantation and sugar cane cultivation] in the forest belt skirting the southeastern coast of Africa, part of a biodiversity hotspot hosting many endemic herpetofaunal species in a highly transformed landscape. We categorized species into trait‐derived functional groups, and assessed abundance and richness of groups and compared community metrics along the gradient. We further assessed the capacity of environmental variables to predict richness and abundance. Overall, old‐growth forest harbored the highest richness and abundance, and amphibians and reptiles responded similarly to the gradient. Richness was low in cultivation, and surprisingly, in degraded forest, but substantial in acacia woodland and plantation. Composition differed between natural vegetation types (forest, degraded forest) and anthropogenic types (plantation, cultivation), while acacia woodland grouped with the latter for amphibians and the former for reptiles. Functional group richness eroded along the gradient, a pattern driven by the sensitivity of fossorial/ground‐dependent amphibians (A2) and reptiles (R2) and vegetation‐dwelling amphibians (A4) to habitat change. Variables describing temperature, cover and soil were good predictors of amphibian abundance, particularly of functional groups, but not for reptiles. Conserving forest and preventing degradation is important for forest herpetofaunal conservation, restoration and plantations have intermediate value, and cultivation is least beneficial. Our study demonstrates the utility of function‐related assessments, beyond traditional metrics alone, for understanding community responses to transformation. Particularly, fossorial/ground‐dependent amphibians and reptiles, and vegetation‐dwelling amphibians should be closely monitored.
Intravenous Immunoglobulin G Modulates Peripheral Blood Th17 and Foxp3+ Regulatory T Cells in Pregnant Women with Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
Authors: Kim Dong Jae , Lee Sung Ki , Kim Jee Yun , Na Baeg Ju , Hur Sung Eun , Lee Millina , Kwak‐Kim Joanne
Published: March 2014

Problem

Th17 cells and Foxp3+ regulatory T (Treg) cells have been proposed as new risk factors for recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL). Intravenous immunoglobulin G (IVIG) was reported to modulate various immune cells. In this study, we investigated the effect of IVIG on the levels of Th17 and Treg cells and pregnancy outcome in women with RPL.

Method of study

Thirty‐seven pregnant women with RPL were enrolled in this study. All had cellular immune abnormality in preconceptional evaluation. Blood was drawn on the day of IVIG treatment and 1 week later from the study subjects during early pregnancy. The proportions of IL‐17+ and Foxp3+ T cells were analyzed using flow cytometry.

Results

Study population was divided into four groups (Q1–Q4) based on ascending order of the levels of Th17 and Foxp3+ T cells. IVIG down‐regulated Th17 cells in the highest quartile, Q4 (P = 0.001), and up‐regulated CD4+ Foxp3+ T cells in Q1 and Q2 (P = 0.025 and 0.029, respectively). In addition, Th17/CD4+ Foxp3+ T cell ratio decreased in Q4 (P = 0.040). We also found a positive trend between successful pregnancy outcome and CD8+ IL‐17+ T cells before IVIG treatment (P = 0.05).

Conclusion

Intravenous immunoglobulin G treatment modulated imbalance of Th17 and Foxp3+ Treg cells in pregnant RPL women with cellular immune abnormality.
What is the appropriate age cut‐off for cycloplegia in refraction?
Authors: Sanfilippo Paul G. , Chu Byoung‐Sun , Bigault Olivia , Kearns Lisa S. , Boon Mei‐Ying , Young Terri L. , Hammond Christopher J. , Hewitt Alex W. , Mackey David A.
Published: March 2014

Purpose

To investigate the age range for which cycloplegia provides additional information compared with non‐cycloplegic refraction in teenagers and young adults.

Methods

Data for 1295 subjects (704 female; 591 male) from the Twins Eye Study in Tasmania (TEST) and the Brisbane Adolescent Twin Study (mean age: 19.65 ± 3.56, range: 13–26 years) were included. For all participants, cycloplegia was induced by instillation of either one drop of 1% cyclopentolate (13–14 years) or one drop of 1% tropicamide (15–26 years). Pre‐ and postcycloplegic refractive errors for both eyes were measured using a Humphrey‐598 automated refractor and spherical equivalents of refractive error were calculated. Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) were used to model the spherical equivalent refraction (SER) for each eye against age (by year) and axial length (in the given eye).

Results

The mean group difference between pre‐ and postcycloplegic SER (post minus pre) was 0.17 ± 0.52 D and 0.12 ± 0.51 D for the right and left eyes, respectively, indicating that postcycloplegic refraction was generally more hyperopic/less myopic. The mean difference between pre‐ and postcycloplegic SER decreased from 0.36 ± 0.41 D in the 13‐year‐olds to 0.06 ± 0.50 D in people aged 25 years. After adjusting for family‐relatedness, the difference between pre‐ and postcycloplegia SER was significant in all age groups up until the age of 20 years.

Conclusions

Non‐cycloplegic autorefraction can result in group mean SER differences of greater myopia than cycloplegic autorefraction and occurs in teenagers (13–19 years of age), but not in adults 20–26 years. These data suggest that cycloplegia is not required in population estimates of refractive error for young adults once they reach approximately 20 years of age.
Higher plasma vitamin D is associated with reduced risk of Clostridium difficile infection in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases
Authors: Ananthakrishnan A. N. , Cagan A. , Gainer V. S. , Cheng S.‐C. , Cai T. , Szolovits P. , Shaw S. Y. , Churchill S. , Karlson E. W. , Murphy S. N. , Kohane I. , Liao K. P.
Published: March 2014

Background

Patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) have an increased risk of clostridium difficile infection (CDI). Cathelicidins are anti‐microbial peptides that attenuate colitis and inhibit the effect of clostridial toxins. Plasma calcifediol [25(OH)D] stimulates production of cathelicidins.

Aim

To examine the association between plasma 25(OH)D and CDI in patients with IBD.

Methods

From a multi‐institutional IBD cohort, we identified patients with at least one measured plasma 25(OH)D. Our primary outcome was development of CDI. Multivariate logistic regression models adjusting for potential confounders were used to identify independent effect of plasma 25(OH)D on risk of CDI.

Results

We studied 3188 IBD patients of whom 35 patients developed CDI. Patients with CDI‐IBD were older and had greater co‐morbidity. The mean plasma 25(OH)D level was significantly lower in patients who developed CDI (20.4 ng/mL) compared to non‐CDI‐IBD patients (27.1 ng/mL) (P = 0.002). On multivariate analysis, each 1 ng/mL increase in plasma 25(OH)D was associated with a 4% reduction in risk of CDI (OR 0.96, 95% CI 0.93–0.99, P = 0.046). Compared to individuals with vitamin D >20 ng/mL, patients with levels <20 ng/mL were more likely to develop CDI (OR 2.27, 95% CI 1.16–4.44). The mean plasma 25(OH)D in patients with CDI who subsequently died was significantly lower (12.8 ± 8.1 ng/mL) compared to those who were alive at the end of follow‐up (24.3 ± 13.2 ng/mL) (P = 0.01).

Conclusions

Higher plasma calcifediol [25(OH)D] is associated with reduced risk of C. difficile infection in patients with IBD. Further studies of therapeutic supplementation of vitamin D in patients with inflammatory bowel disease and C. difficile infection may be warranted.
Social scholarship: Reconsidering scholarly practices in the age of social media
Authors: Greenhow Christine , Gleason Benjamin
Published: March 2014

This conceptual exploration inquires, what is scholarship reconsidered in the age of social media? How ought we to conceptualize social scholarship—a new set of practices being discussed in various disciplines? The paper offers a critical examination of the practical and policy implications of reconsidering scholarship in light of social media's affordances toward a conceptualization of social scholarship. For each dimension of Boyer's original framework, we explain its epistemologies and practices. Next, we take a critical approach to inquiring how each dimension, reconsidered through the lens of social scholarship values and social media affordances, might be envisioned today. This exploration provides concrete examples of how scholars might enact social scholarship with what benefits and challenges.
Discovering indicators of successful collaboration using tense: Automated extraction of patterns in discourse
Authors: Thompson Kate , Kennedy‐Clark Shannon , Wheeler Penny , Kelly Nick
Published: March 2014

This paper describes a technique for locating indicators of success within the data collected from complex learning environments, proposing an application of e‐research to access learner processes and measure and track group progress. The technique combines automated extraction of tense and modality via parts‐of‐speech tagging with a visualisation of the timing and speaker for each utterance developed to code and analyse learner discourse, exploiting the results of previous, non‐automated analyses for validation. The work is developed using a dataset of interactions within a multi‐user virtual environment and extended to a more complex dataset of synchronous chat texts during a collaborative design task. This methodology extends natural language processing into computer‐based collaboration contexts, discovering the linguistic micro‐events that construct the larger phases of successful design‐based learning.
Histamine mediates behavioural and metabolic effects of 3‐iodothyroacetic acid, an endogenous end product of thyroid hormone metabolism
Authors: Musilli Claudia , De Siena Gaetano , Manni Maria Elena , Logli Andrea , Landucci Elisa , Zucchi Riccardo , Saba Alessandro , Donzelli Riccardo , Passani Maria Beatrice , Provensi Gustavo , Raimondi Laura
Published: March 2014

Background and Purpose

3‐Iodothyroacetic acid (TA1) is an end product of thyroid hormone metabolism. So far, it is not known if TA1 is present in mouse brain and if it has any pharmacological effects.

Experimental Approach

TA1 levels in mouse brain were measured by HPLC coupled to mass spectrometry. After i.c.v. administration of exogenous TA1 (0.4, 1.32 and 4 μg·kg−1) to mice, memory acquisition‐retention (passive avoidance paradigm with a light‐dark box), pain threshold to thermal stimulus (51.5°C; hot plate test) and plasma glucose (glucorefractometer) were evaluated. Similar assays were performed in mice pretreated with s.c. injections of the histamine H1 receptor antagonist pyrilamine (10 mg·kg−1) or the H2 receptor antagonist zolantidine (5 mg·kg−1). TA1 (1.32 and 4 μg·kg−1) was also given i.c.v. to mice lacking histidine decarboxylase (HDC−/−) and the corresponding WT strain.

Key Results

TA1 was found in the brain of CD1 but not of HDC mice. Exogenous TA1 induced amnesia (at 0.4 μg·kg−1), stimulation of learning (1.32 and 4 μg·kg−1), hyperalgesia (0.4, 1.32 and 4 μg·kg−1) and hyperglycaemia (1.32 and 4 μg·kg−1). All these effects were modulated by pyrilamine and zolantidine. In HDC−/− mice, TA1 (1.32 and 4 μg·kg−1) did not increase plasma glucose or induce hyperalgesia.

Conclusions and Implications

Behavioural and metabolic effects of TA1 disclosed interactions between the thyroid and histaminergic systems.
Living Lab: A Methodology between User‐Centred Design and Participatory Design
Authors: Dell'Era Claudio , Landoni Paolo
Published: March 2014

Living Labs have received limited attention in the literature despite their diffusion throughout Europe and recent interest from policy makers. This limited attention is linked to the newness of the phenomenon, the high heterogeneity of cases and the consequent lack of definitions and acknowledged frameworks for scholarly analyses. In this work, we argue that the originality of the Living Lab phenomenon resides in the introduction of a new methodology. Using an analysis of the literature and case studies, we propose a new definition, position this methodology among other design methodologies and highlight its peculiarities. We underline the co‐creative potentialities, the awareness of users and the real‐life settings. Furthermore, our case‐based research allows us to identify four different specifications for this methodology, and therefore four different types of Living Labs, based on the openness of the user involvement and the adopted platform technology.
A Social–Ecological, Process‐Oriented Perspective on Political Violence and Child Development
Authors: Cummings E. Mark , Goeke‐Morey Marcie C. , Merrilees Christine E. , Taylor Laura K. , Shirlow Peter
Published: March 2014

Youth's risk for adjustment problems amid political violence is well documented, but outcomes vary widely, with many children functioning well. Accordingly, researchers are seeking to identify the mechanisms and conditions that contribute to children's adjustment, with an interest in understanding effects on children in terms of changes in the social contexts in which they live and the psychological processes engaged by these social ecologies. In this article, we look at the importance of studying many levels of the social ecology and of differentiating the effects of exposure to contexts of political versus nonpolitical violence, and we address theories about explanatory processes. We review research pertinent to these themes, including a six‐wave longitudinal study on political violence and children inNorthernIreland.
Testosterone and dihydrotestosterone and incident ischaemic stroke in men in the Cardiovascular Health Study
Authors: Shores Molly M. , Arnold Alice M. , Biggs Mary L. , Longstreth W.T. , Smith Nicholas L. , Kizer Jorge R. , Cappola Anne R. , Hirsch Calvin H. , Marck Brett T. , Matsumoto Alvin M.
Published: March 2014

Objective

Ischaemic stroke is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in elderly men. Our main objective was to examine whether testosterone (T) or dihydrotestosterone (DHT) was associated with incident ischaemic stroke in elderly men.

Design

Cohort study.

Participants

Elderly men in the Cardiovascular Health Study who had no history of stroke, heart disease or prostate cancer as of 1994 and were followed until December 2010.

Measurements

Adjudicated ischaemic stroke.

Results

Among 1032 men (mean age 76, range 66–97), followed for a median of 10 years, 114 had an incident ischaemic stroke. Total T and free T were not significantly associated with stroke risk, while DHT had a nonlinear association with incident stroke (P = 0·006) in analyses adjusted for stroke risk factors. The lowest risk of stroke was at DHT levels of 50‐75 ng/dl, with greater risk of stroke at DHT levels above 75 ng/dl or below 50 ng/dl. Results were unchanged when SHBG was added to the model. Calculated free DHT had an inverse linear association with incident ischaemic stroke with HR 0·77 (95% CI, 0·61, 0·98) per standard deviation in analyses adjusted for stroke risk factors.

Conclusions

Dihydrotestosterone had a nonlinear association with stroke risk in which there was an optimal DHT level associated with the lowest stroke risk. Further studies are needed to confirm these results and to clarify whether there is an optimal androgen range associated with the least risk of adverse outcomes in elderly men.
The kidney in Fabry's disease
Authors: Pisani A. , Visciano B. , Imbriaco M. , Di Nuzzi A. , Mancini A. , Marchetiello C. , Riccio E.
Published: March 2014

Fabry disease (FD) is an X‐linked disease in which mutations of the GLA gene result in a deficiency of the enzyme α‐galactosidase A and subsequent progressive, intralysosomal deposition of undegraded glycosphingolipid products, primarily globotriaosylceramide, in multiple organs. Progressive nephropathy is one of the main features of FD and is marked by an insidious development, with an overall rate of progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) very similar to diabetic nephropathy. Untreated patients usually develop end stage renal disease in their 50s. The decline in renal function in FD is adversely affected by male gender, advanced CKD, hypertension and, in particular, severe proteinuria. Enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) has been shown to slow the progression of Fabry nephropathy. The current consensus is that ERT should be started in all men and women with signs of renal involvement.
Rational Hypocrisy: A Bayesian Analysis Based on Informal Argumentation and Slippery Slopes
Authors: Rai Tage S. , Holyoak Keith J.
Published: March 2014

Moral hypocrisy is typically viewed as an ethical accusation: Someone is applying different moral standards to essentially identical cases, dishonestly claiming that one action is acceptable while otherwise equivalent actions are not. We suggest that in some instances the apparent logical inconsistency stems from different evaluations of a weak argument, rather than dishonesty per se. Extending Corner, Hahn, and Oaksford's (2006) analysis of slippery slope arguments, we develop a Bayesian framework in which accusations of hypocrisy depend on inferences of shared category membership between proposed actions and previous standards, based on prior probabilities that inform the strength of competing hypotheses. Across three experiments, we demonstrate that inferences of hypocrisy increase as perceptions of the likelihood of shared category membership between precedent cases and current cases increase, that these inferences follow established principles of category induction, and that the presence of self‐serving motives increases inferences of hypocrisy independent of changes in the actions themselves. Taken together, these results demonstrate that Bayesian analyses of weak arguments may have implications for assessing moral reasoning.
Role of cell cycle regulatory molecules in retinoic acid‐ and vitamin D3‐induced differentiation of acute myeloid leukaemia cells
Authors: Hu X. T. , Zuckerman K. S.
Published: March 2014

The important role of cell cycle regulatory molecules in all trans‐retinoic acid (ATRA)‐ and vitamin D3‐induced growth inhibition and differentiation induction has been intensively studied in both acute myeloid leukaemia primary cells and a variety of leukaemia cell lines. Cyclin‐dependent kinases (CDK)‐activating kinase has been demonstrated to interact with retinoic acid receptor (RAR)α in acute promyelocytic leukaemia cells, and inhibition of CDK‐activating kinase by ATRA causes hypophosphorylation of PML‐RARα, leading to myeloid differentiation. In many cases, downregulation of CDK activity by ATRA and vitamin D3 is a result of elevated p21‐ and p27‐bound CDKs. Activation of p21 is regulated at the transcriptional level, whereas elevated p27 results from both (indirectly) transcriptional activation and post‐translational modifications. CDK inhibitors (CKIs) of the INK family, such as p15, p16 and p18, are mainly involved in inhibition of cell proliferation, whereas CIP/KIP members, such as p21, regulate both growth arrest and induction of differentiation. ATRA and vitamin D3 can also downregulate expression of G1 CDKs, especially CDK2 and CDK6. Inhibition of cyclin E expression has only been observed in ATRA‐ but not in vitamin D3‐treated leukaemic cells. In vitro, not only dephosphorylation of pRb but also elevation of total pRb is required for ATRA and vitamin D3 to suppress growth and trigger their differentiation. Finally, sharp reduction in c‐Myc has been observed in several leukaemia cell lines treated with ATRA, which may regulate expression of CDKs and CKIs.
Disease and community structure: white‐nose syndrome alters spatial and temporal niche partitioning in sympatric bat species
Authors: Jachowski David S. , Dobony Chris A. , Coleman Laci S. , Ford William M. , Britzke Eric R. , Rodrigue Jane L.
Published: March 2014

Aim

Emerging infectious diseases present a major perturbation with apparent direct effects such as reduced population density, extirpation and/or extinction. Comparatively less is known about the potential indirect effects of disease that likely alter community structure and larger ecosystem function. Since 2006, white‐nose syndrome (WNS) has resulted in the loss of over 6 million hibernating bats in eastern North America. Considerable evidence exists concerning niche partitioning in sympatric bat species in this region, and the unprecedented, rapid decline in multiple species following WNS may provide an opportunity to observe a dramatic restructuring of the bat community.

Location

We conducted our study at Fort Drum Army Installation in Jefferson and Lewis counties, New York, USA, where WNS first impacted extant bat species in winter 2007–2008.

Methods

Acoustical monitoring during 2003–2011 allowed us to test the hypothesis that spatial and temporal niche partitioning by bats was relaxed post‐WNS.

Results

We detected nine bat species pre‐ and post‐WNS. Activity for most bat species declined post‐WNS. Dramatic post‐WNS declines in activity of little brown bat (Myotis lucifugus, MYLU), formerly the most abundant bat species in the region, were associated with complex, often species‐specific responses by other species that generally favoured increased spatial and temporal overlap with MYLU.

Main conclusions

In addition to the obvious direct effects of disease on bat populations and activity levels, our results provide evidence that disease can have cascading indirect effects on community structure. Recent occurrence of WNS in North America, combined with multiple existing stressors, is resulting in dramatic shifts in temporal and spatial niche partitioning within bat communities. These changes might influence long‐term population viability of some bat species as well as broader scale ecosystem structure and function.
Combining global climate and regional landscape models to improve prediction of invasion risk
Authors: Kelly Ruth , Leach Katie , Cameron Alison , Maggs Christine A. , Reid Neil
Published: March 2014

Aim

It is widely acknowledged that species distributions result from a variety of biotic and abiotic factors operating at different spatial scales. Here, we aimed to (1) determine the extent to which global climate niche models (CNMs) can be improved by the addition of fine‐scale regional data; (2) examine climatic and environmental factors influencing the range of 15 invasive aquatic plant species; and (3) provide a case study for the use of such models in invasion management on an island.

Location

Global, with a case study of species invasions in Ireland.

Methods

Climate niche models of global extent (including climate only) and regional environmental niche models (with additional factors such as human influence, land use and soil characteristics) were generated usingmaxentfor 15 invasive aquatic plants. The performance of these models within the invaded range of the study species in Ireland was assessed, and potential hotspots of invasion suitability were determined. Models were projected forward up to 2080 based on two climate scenarios.

Results

While climate variables are important in defining the global range of species, factors related to land use and nutrient level were of greater importance in regional projections. Global climatic models were significantly improved at the island scale by the addition of fine‐scale environmental variables (area under the curve values increased by 0.18 and true skill statistic values by 0.36), and projected ranges decreased from an average of 86% to 36% of the island.

Main conclusions

Refining CNMs with regional data on land use, human influence and landscape may have a substantial impact on predictive capacity, providing greater value for prioritization of conservation management at subregional or local scales.
Supraoptimal temperatures influence the range dynamics of a non‐native insect
Authors: Tobin Patrick C. , Gray David R. , Liebhold Andrew M.
Published: March 2014

Aim

To examine the relationship between the range dynamics of the non‐native species Lymantria dispar (L.) and supraoptimal temperatures during its larval and pupal period.

Location

West Virginia and Virginia, United States, North America.

Methods

We linked the annual frequency of supraoptimal temperatures during the larval and pupal period of L. dispar with annual changes in its range dynamics based upon a spatially robust 20‐year dataset. Correlation analyses were used to estimate the association between exposure time above the optimal temperature for L. dispar larval and pupal development, and the rate of invasion spread when adjusted for spatial autocorrelation.

Results

We documented L. dispar range expansion, stasis, and retraction across a fairly narrow latitudinal region. We also observed differences in the amount of exposure above the optimal temperature for L. dispar larval and pupal development across this region. Temperature regimes in the Coastal Plain and Piedmont regions of Virginia, where the L. dispar range has retracted or remained static, were warmer than those in the Appalachian Mountains of Virginia and West Virginia, where L. dispar has expanded its range. Our analyses at a smaller spatial scale confirmed a statistically negative association between exposure time above the optimal temperature for L. dispar larvae and pupae, and the rate of L. dispar invasion spread over the 20‐year period.

Main conclusions

The shifting, expansion and retraction of species distributional ranges holds critical implications to both invasion ecology and conservation biology. This work provides novel empirical evidence of the importance of supraoptimal temperatures on the range dynamics of a non‐native invasive insect with application to both non‐native and native species whose physiological processes are strongly regulated by temperature.
Correlation of Echocardiographic Epicardial Fat Thickness with Severity of Coronary Artery Disease in Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Wang Tao , Liu Qiang , Liu Cuixia , Sun Ling , Li Daixu , Liu Aihua , Jia Ruyi
Published: March 2014

The aim of this study was to test the hypotheses that epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) can be a marker of severe coronary artery disease in patients with acute myocardial infarction. Overall, 373 cases who underwent coronary angiography were classified into 2 groups by SYNTAX score: low‐score and high‐score group. EAT was measured by transthoracic echocardiography. Obtained data were compared using Pearson correlation analyses and univariate and multiple logistic regression analysis. The results showed that EAT in the high‐score group was significantly greater than in the normal group (5.6 ± 1.1 vs. 4.1 ± 1.0 mm, P < 0.01). EAT had a positive correlation with SYNTAX score (r = 0.61, P < 0.01). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses showed that EAT could reliably discriminate patients with high SYNTAX score (≥33) [AUC: 0.86, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.822–0.898, P < 0.01]. Multivariate regression analyses showed that EAT was an independent predictor for major in‐hospital events. These data showed an association between EAT and SYNTAX score.
Associations of Tissue Doppler Imaging with NT‐proBNP and hs‐TnT: A Pilot Study in End‐Stage Renal Disease
Authors: Dubin Ruth F. , Beatty Alexis L. , Teerlink John R. , Schiller Nelson B. , Alokozai Dean , Johansen Kirsten L.
Published: March 2014

Background

Diastolic dysfunction is common and associated with higher mortality in the end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) population. E/E′, a measure derived from tissue Doppler imaging (TDI), is a correlate of left ventricular (LV) filling pressures. E/E′ may be viewed as a confirmatory marker of diastolic dysfunction, but it is not routinely used to quantify diastolic dysfunction. Whether E/E′ is associated with N‐terminal brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) or high sensitivity troponin T (hs‐TnT) in this population is not known.

Methods

We performed echocardiograms and serology prior to the 2nd or 3rd dialysis session of the week on 35 chronic hemodialysis patients. We compared TDI parameters (E/E′ and E′ alone), traditional categories of diastolic function (normal, impaired, pseudonormal or restrictive), and ejection fraction (EF) as potential predictors of the outcomes NT‐proBNP and hs‐TnT.

Results

Higher E/E′ was associated with higher NT‐proBNP (rho 0.48, P = 0.004) and hs‐TnT (rho 0.37, P = 0.03). EF did not have statistically significant associations with NT‐proBNP (rho −0.2, P = 0.4) or hs‐TnT (rho −0.24, P = 0.16). As compared to patients with normal diastolic function, those with impaired or pseudonormal filling patterns did not have significantly different levels of NT‐proBNP (P = 0.46); patients in traditional categories of worsened diastolic function actually had lower hs‐TnT (P = 0.02). The associations of E/E′ with higher NT‐proBNP and hs‐TnT persisted after multivariate adjustment for EF, LV mass, and volume status.

Conclusions

Tissue Doppler imaging may be more useful in evaluating cardiac function than traditional measures of diastolic dysfunction in the ESRD population.
Asymmetrical intraguild predation between natural enemies of the citrus mealybug
Authors: Gkounti Vasiliki T. , Savopoulou‐Soultani Matilda , Milonas Panagiotis G.
Published: March 2014

The ability of a predator to discriminate against parasitized prey determines the extent of asymmetrical intraguild predation, which is often crucial for the outcome of biological control. Anagyrus nr. pseudococci (Girault) (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae), a parasitoid of the citrus mealybug, Planococcus citri (Risso) (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae), suffers from intraguild predation by coccinellids occurring in the same habitat. The level of intraguild predation on A. nr. pseudococci by Nephus includens (Kirsch) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) at different immature stages has been investigated with and without simultaneous offer of extraguild prey. Larvae of A. nr. pseudococci appeared to face increased intraguild predation at early developmental stages, whereas mummification provided adequate protection against the predatory coccinellid. Different predation levels on unparasitized vs. parasitized hosts at various developmental stages in choice assays indicated that N. includens preferences might be determined not solely by palatability of the prey but also by its ability to protect itself.
Detection of clade 2 equine influenza virus in an adult horse recently imported to the USA
Authors: Pusterla N. , Estell K. , Mapes S. , Wademan C.
Published: March 2014

A 4‐year‐old Warmblood mare presented to the William R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California at Davis with bilateral mucoid nasal discharge and pyrexia. The mare had recently been imported from Germany, arriving at a quarantine holding facility 72 h prior to presentation. Based on clinical presentation and culture results of tracheal fluid, the mare was diagnosed with bacterial bronchopneumonia secondary to equine influenza. The equine influenza virus (EIV) identified in the imported mare displayed 99.1% nucleotide homology of the HA1 gene to the prototype Florida sublineage clade 2 isolate A/equine/Richmond/1/2007 (H3N8). This case illustrates the risk of introducing a clade 2 EIV in North America.
Topical E6005, a novel phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitor, attenuates spontaneous itch‐related responses in mice with chronic atopy‐like dermatitis
Authors: Andoh Tsugunobu , Yoshida Tetsuro , Kuraishi Yasushi
Published: March 2014

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory cutaneous disease with difficult‐to‐treat pruritus. Although phosphodiesterase (PDE) 4 inhibitors have an anti‐inflammatory effect on inflammatory skin diseases, such as atopic dermatitis, their acute antipruritic activities remain unclear. Therefore, in this study, we examined whether E6005, a novel PDE4 inhibitor, has antipruritic activity in dermatitis, using a mouse model of atopic dermatitis (NC/Nga mice). A single topical application of E6005 inhibited spontaneous hind‐paw scratching, an itch‐associated response and spontaneous activity of the cutaneous nerve in mice with chronic dermatitis. The cutaneous concentration of cAMP was significantly decreased in mice with chronic dermatitis, and this decrease was reversed by topical E6005 application. These results suggest that E6005 increases the cutaneous concentration of cAMP to relieve dermatitis‐associated itching. Thus, E6005 may be a useful therapy for pruritic dermatitis such as atopic dermatitis.
Adoptees' Contact with Birth Parents in Emerging Adulthood: The Role of Adoption Communication and Attachment to Adoptive Parents
Authors: Farr Rachel H. , Grant‐Marsney Holly A. , Grotevant Harold D.
Published: March 2014

As adoptees transition to adulthood, their roles in the family may shift, providing them with opportunities to have increasing autonomy in their decisions about contact and initiating conversations about adoption. Research has often focused more on adoptees as children, yet in emerging adulthood, there are important shifts in the life roles and relationships of adoptees during which adoptive parents continue to be meaningful. This study examined associations among attachment and communication within the adoptive family during adulthood with emerging adult adoptees' experience of birth family contact (frequency of and satisfaction with birth family contact), in a sample of 167 emerging adults with varied contact with birth family (from no contact to frequent contact). Results suggest that perceptions of secure parent–child attachment relationships, as well as sensitive and open communication with adoptive parents about adoption, continue to be important for emerging adult adoptees and lead to greater satisfaction for adoptees with birth parent contact—regardless of whether adoptees actually have birth family contact. In particular, positive family communication about adoption during adulthood was predictive of satisfaction with birth parent contact. Limitations and implications are discussed.
Prediction of short fatigue crack growth of Ti‐6Al‐4V
Authors: Wang K. , Wang F. , Cui W. , Hayat T. , Ahmad B.
Published: March 2014

It is observed that the short fatigue cracks grow faster than long fatigue cracks at the same nominal driving force and even grow at stress intensity factor range below the threshold value for long cracks in titanium alloy materials. The anomalous behaviours of short cracks have a great influence on the accurate fatigue life prediction of submersible pressure hulls. Based on the unified fatigue life prediction method developed in the authors' group, a modified model for short crack propagation is proposed in this paper. The elastic–plastic behaviour of short cracks in the vicinity of crack tips is considered in the modified model. The model shows that the rate of crack propagation for very short cracks is determined by the range of cyclic stress rather than the range of the stress intensity factor controlling the long crack propagation and the threshold stress intensity factor range of short fatigue cracks is a function of crack length. The proposed model is used to calculate short crack propagation rate of different titanium alloys. The short crack propagation rates of Ti‐6Al‐4V and its corresponding fatigue lives are predicted under different stress ratios and different stress levels. The model is validated by comparing model prediction results with the experimental data.
Variable amplitude loading of spray‐formed hypereutectic aluminium silicon alloy DISPAL® S232 in the VHCF regime
Authors: Fitzka M. , Mayer H. , Schuller R. , Stanzl‐Tschegg S. E. , Przeorski T. , Krug P.
Published: March 2014

Spray‐formed hypereutectic aluminium silicon alloy DISPAL® S232–T6x is cycled with variable amplitude at ultrasonic frequency up to the very high cycle fatigue (VHCF) regime under fully reversed tension–compression loading. The Powder Metallurgy alloy is tested using a Gaussian cumulative frequency distribution of load cycles, and lifetimes are compared with constant amplitude data. Miner calculation delivers mean damage sums between 0.5 and 0.9 for mean lifetimes between 8 × 107 and 1.6 × 1010 cycles, respectively. Cracks are initiated at voids, at inclusions or at distributed inhomogeneities (porous areas or oxides) at the surface or in the interior. In situ analysis of vibration properties indicates that cracks are formed and start growing from the beginning of fatigue cycling, even if failure occurs in the very high cycle fatigue regime. Crack initiation stage is negligible. Lifetime prediction calculation is performed using an adapted Paris‐law and considering lifetime as cycles necessary to propagate an initial crack to failure. Measured and predicted mean lifetimes differ by factor 0.4–1.0. Large crack‐initiating defects strongly reduce the fatigue lifetimes, which is successfully covered in the crack propagation model.
Impact response of polyethylene sandwich panel obtained by rotational moulding
Authors: Casavola C. , Moramarco V. , Pappalettere C.
Published: March 2014

Sandwich panels are more and more used in load bearing structures because of their high specific stiffness and high specific strength. Impact energy absorption is a characteristic required for some specific application, that is, in high‐speed transportations. In this article, the impact response of a new sandwich panel made up of two polyethylene skins separated by lightweight polyethylene foam, built with an innovative manufacturing process called rotational moulding, is investigated by both the impact test and the finite element analysis. To characterize the low‐velocity impact response of this new material, three homogenous polyethylene sandwich panels, 44 ± 1 mm thick, are studied under seven impact test energy levels, from 5 to 70 J. Experimental tests have allowed obtaining absorbed energy and the load–time plot for each impact energy level. Furthermore, a quantitative analysis of the damage is presented. Finally, a finite element model was implemented to evaluate the damping effect of the core.
Hypomagnesemia, chronic kidney disease and cardiovascular mortality: Pronounced association but unproven causation
Authors: Dousdampanis Periklis , Trigka Konstantina , Fourtounas Costas
Published: March 2014

Magnesium is as an essential metal implicated in numerous physiological functions of human cells. The kidney plays a crucial role in magnesium homeostasis. In advanced chronic kidney disease, serum magnesium levels are increased. Data from experimental and observational studies suggest that low levels of magnesium are associated with several factors, such as insulin resistance, diabetes, oxidative stress, hypertension, atherosclerosis, and inflammation which are implicated in the progression of chronic kidney disease. Moreover, low levels of magnesium have been correlated with cardiovascular disease and all‐cause mortality in end‐stage renal disease patients. Hypomagnesemia has also been associated with poorer renal allograft and transplant recipients' outcomes. The causality of these relationships has not been completely elucidated. A thorough review of the current literature indicates that low magnesium levels in dialysis patients may reflect a poorer nutritional status and/or are the result of systemic inflammation. Further studies in chronic kidney disease and dialysis patients are needed in order to clarify the causality of these associations.