bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrating Ecology and Economics for Restoration: Using Ecological Indicators in Valuation of Ecosystem Services
Authors: Schultz Eric T. , Johnston Robert J. , Segerson Kathleen , Besedin Elena Y.
Published: April 2012

Because it can uniquely furnish insights into nonuse values for ecosystem services, survey‐based Stated Preference (SP) valuation is widely used to estimate the benefits of ecological restoration. SP surveys ask respondents to select among restoration options yielding different ecological outcomes. This review examines the representation of ecological outcomes in SP studies seeking to quantify values for restoration of aquatic ecosystems. To promote the validity of ecological indicators used in SP valuation, we identified four standards: indicators should be measurable, interpretable, applicable, and comprehensive. We reviewed recent SP studies estimating the value of aquatic ecosystem services to assess whether ecological indicators in current use had these desirable properties. More than half of the 54 indicators reviewed were measurable, meaning referable to potentially precise quantification. About one‐third were interpretable, that is, presented in a way that facilitates understanding the effects of restoration. About three quarters of the indicators were applicable; SP valuation practitioners typically consult with natural scientists to ensure that indicators represent the effect of stressors on ecological systems and with focus groups to ensure that indicators have a connection with ecosystem services that contribute to public well‐being. While most of the SP studies employed diverse and potentially comprehensive indicators that could capture direct and indirect effects of restoration, and 6 of 20 studies used indicators that met all standards, shortcomings in the indicators were common. These problems can be rectified with attention to how natural scientists measure change and to relationships between restoration outcomes and characteristics of fully restored reference ecosystems.
Epidemiology of end‐stage renal disease and hemodialysis treatment in Serbia at the turn of the millennium
Authors: Djukanović Ljubica , Aksić‐Miličević Biserka , Antić Miodrag , Baković Jovan , Varga Željko , Gojaković Biljana , Dimković Nada , Ðorđević Verica , Ðorđević Vidojko , Ðurić Stevan , Ðurić Sunčica , Zec Nenad , Jelačić Rosa , Kovačević Zoran , Lazarević Tatjana , Ležaić Višnja , Mandić Milan , Marić Ivko , Milenković Srboljub , Milićević Olivera , Mišković Milena , Mitić Igor , Nikolić Zora , Pilipović Draga , Plješa Stevo , Radaković Miroslava , Rakić Nenad , Rangelov Vanja , Stojanović Radivoje , Stojanović‐Stanojević Marina , Tirmenštajn‐Janković Biserka , Haviža‐Lilić Branimir , Hadžibulić Edvin , Hrvačević Rajko , Cvetičanin Anica
Published: April 2012

The study presents the epidemiological features of patients treated with renal replacement therapy (RRT) in Serbia from 1997 to 2009 and compares the results of hemodialysis treatment in 1999 and 2009. Epidemiological data were obtained from the National Registry of RRT patients and data on hemodialysis treatment from special surveys conducted in 1999 and 2009. Within the period 1997–2009 the incidence of patients on RRT increased from 108 to 179 per million population (pmp), prevalence rose from 435 to 699 pmp, while mortality rate fell from 20.7% to 16.7%. The frequency of patients with glomerulonephritis decreased, while that of patients with diabetes and hypertensive nephropathy increased. In late 2009 there were 5208 patients receiving RRT in Serbia. Within the examined period new hemodialysis and reverse osmosis equipment were purchased, high‐flux dialyzers with synthetic membranes were increasingly used and the number of patients receiving hemodiafiltration increased to 17.6%. Kt/V greater than 1.2 was recorded in 16% of the patients in 1999 but 52% in 2009. Options for correction of anemia and mineral disorders have also improved. The percentage of patients with HbsAg (13.8% vs. 4.8%) as well as anti‐hepatitis C virus antibodies positive patients (23.2% vs. 12.7%) was significantly lower in 2009 than in 1999. Both the incidence and prevalence of RRT patients in Serbia are rising continuously, while the mortality rate is falling. More favorable conditions for dialysis treatment have brought about significant improvement in the results over the last 10 years.
Oxidized low‐density lipoprotein and lipoprotein(a) levels in chronic kidney disease patients under hemodialysis: Influence of adiponectin and of a polymorphism in the apolipoprotein(a) gene
Authors: Ribeiro Sandra , Faria Maria do Sameiro , Silva Gil , Nascimento Henrique , Rocha‐Pereira Petronila , Miranda Vasco , Vieira Emília , Santos Rosário , Mendonça Denisa , Quintanilha Alexandre , Costa Elísio , Belo Luís , Santos‐Silva Alice
Published: April 2012

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has been associated with an abnormal lipid profile. Our aim was to study the interplay between oxidized low‐density lipoprotein (ox‐LDL), adiponectin, and blood lipids and lipoproteins in Portuguese patients with CKD under hemodialysis (HD); the influence of the pentanucleotide repeat polymorphism in the apolipoprotein(a) (apo [a]) gene upon lipoprotein(a) (Lp[a]) levels in these patients. We studied 187 HD patients and 25 healthy individuals. ox‐LDL and adiponectin were measured using enzyme‐linked immunoassays. Apo(a) genotyping was performed by polymerase chain reaction, followed by electrophoresis in polyacrylamide gel. Compared with controls, patients presented with significantly higher levels of adiponectin, Lp(a), and ox‐LDL/low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLc) ratio; significantly lower levels of total cholesterol (TC), LDLc, apo A‐I, apo B, ox‐LDL, and TC/high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDLc) ratio were also observed. Similar changes were observed for patients with or without statin therapy, as compared with controls, except for Lp(a). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that body mass index, HDLc, time on HD, and triglycerides (TG) were independent determinants of adiponectin levels, and that apo B, TG and LDLc were independent determinants of ox‐LDL concentration. Concerning the apo(a) genotype, the homozygous (TTTTA)8/8 repeats was the most prevalent (50.8%). A raised proportion of LDL particles that are oxidized was observed. Adiponectin almost doubled its values in patients and seems to be an important determinant in HDLc and TG levels, improving the lipid profile in these patients. Apo(a) alleles with a lower number of repetitions are more frequent in patients with higher Lp(a).
Efficacy of preventing hemodialysis catheter infections with citrate lock
Authors: Silva Jorge , Antunes Jorge , Carvalho Telmo , Ponce Pedro
Published: April 2012

Prevalent use of tunneled dialysis catheters can reach 30%. Infection remains the most serious catheter‐related problem. Catheter locks are increasingly used for prevention, but are not yet recommended either by the Food and Drug Association or European Medicines Agency, on the basis of increasing bacterial resistance or lock toxicity. The aim was to test safety and effectiveness of citrate. A prospective, interventional study was conducted to assess the safety and efficacy of a 30% citrate lock in preventing catheter‐related bacteremia (CRB). A total of 157 prevalent tunneled catheters were locked with citrate and prospectively followed during a 1‐year period. The primary endpoint was first CRB diagnosed according to two of the diagnostic criteria for Catheter Infection of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), namely definite and probable infection. The CDC criterion of possible but not proved infection was not considered. This citrate lock cohort (n = 157) had 10 episodes of CRB. We observed 0.49 CRB episodes/1000 patient‐days and the mean infection‐free catheter day was 130.6 ± 100.9. No clinically relevant adverse events were observed. No proved tunnel or exit site infection was observed and no patients died because of CRB. Catheter obstruction episodes were reported on 69 occasions out of 14 catheters. These results were compared with an historical cohort from a previous study of catheter locking with low‐dose gentamicin and did not show significant difference in efficacy. Citrate lock is effective in preventing CRB. No toxicity was observed. The use of citrate lock may have advantages over antibiotic locks: No reported bacterial resistance, lower industrial cost, and less manipulation.
Selecting volatiles to protect brassicaceous crops against the cabbage root fly,Delia radicum
Authors: Kergunteuil Alan , Dugravot Sébastein , Mortreuil Alice , Le Ralec Anne , Cortesero Anne Marie
Published: April 2012

Volatiles resulting from plant–herbivore interactions play an important role in the behavioral decisions of phytophagous, predatory, and parasitoid insects and could be used for managing pest insects. However, to date and after about 40 years of research, documented studies on applications in the field remain extremely scarce.Delia radicumL. (Diptera: Anthomyiidae), the cabbage root fly, is a major pest of brassicaceous crops for which classical control strategies are currently lacking. Our previous studies showed that dimethyl disulfide (DMDS), a compound emitted by roots heavily infested byD. radicumlarvae, was attractive for the fly’s main natural enemies and could lead to a reduction of 60% in number of eggs laid on treated plants in the field. As a follow‐up of this work, we conducted another field study to select additional volatiles that could be used in a push–pull approach. Several synthetic herbivore‐induced plant volatiles, selected on the basis of their potential action on the behavior of both the fly and its natural enemies, were placed in odor dispensers in experimental broccoli plots and their influence on oviposition byD. radicumand egg predation by ground‐dwelling predators was assessed. Our results confirmed the role of DMDS in reducingD. radicumegg numbers on broccoli plants and revealed that (Z)‐3‐hexenyl acetate, a green leaf volatile released by recently damaged plants, strongly stimulated fly oviposition. Also, two of the compounds tested slightly modified predation activity of ground‐dwelling predators: acetophenone decreased the proportion of predated patches, whereas methyl salicylate increased it. This study is a first step in designing a push–pull strategy to control the cabbage root fly.
Cost‐effectiveness of an individually tailored oral health educational programme based on cognitive behavioural strategies in non‐surgical periodontal treatment
Authors: Jönsson Birgitta , Öhrn Kerstin , Lindberg Per , Oscarson Nils
Published: April 2012

Aim

The aim of this cost‐effectiveness analysis (CEA), performed from a societal perspective, was to compare costs and consequences of an individually tailored oral health educational programme (ITOHEP) based on cognitive behavioural strategies integrated in non‐surgical periodontal treatment compared with a standard treatment programme (ST).

Material and Methods

A randomized (n = 113), evaluator‐blinded, controlled trial, with two different active treatments, was analysed with respect to their costs and consequences 12 months after non‐surgical treatment. Costs referred to both treatment costs and costs contributed by the patient. Consequences (outcome) were expressed as the proportion of individuals classified as having reached the pre‐set criteria for treatment success after non‐surgical treatment (“successful‐NSPT”).

Results

More individuals in theITOHEPgroup reached the pre‐set criteria for treatment success than individuals in theSTgroup did. TheCEArevealed an incremental cost‐effectiveness ofSEK1724 [€191.09; SEK9.02 = €1 (January 2007)] per “successful‐NSPT” case, of which treatment costs representedSEK1189 (€131.82), using the unit cost for a dental hygienist.

Conclusion

The incremental costs per “successful‐NSPT” case can be considered as low and strengthens the suggestion that an ITOHEP integrated into non‐surgical periodontal treatment is preferable to a standardized education programme.
Metastatic basal cell carcinoma of the posterior neck: case report and review of the literature
Authors: Gropper Adrienne B. , Girouard Sasha D. , Hojman Lia P. , Huang Susan J. , Qian Xiaohua , Murphy George F. , Vleugels Ruth Ann
Published: April 2012

Although primary basal cell carcinoma (BCC) represents an extremely common malignancy, metastases derived from BCC are exceedingly rare. The prognosis for metastatic BCC is poor, and little consensus exists regarding predictive factors or optimal treatment strategies. Here, we present the case of a 63‐year‐old man with BCC of the neck who subsequently developed multiple metastases to subcutaneous tissue, lymph nodes, and the parotid gland. Risk factors and clinical features of metastatic BCC are reviewed, as is the relationship of histopathologic subtype to metastatic behavior. Current chemotherapeutic and targeted therapies also are discussed in the context of recent advances in molecular biology.

Gropper AB, Girouard SD, Hojman LP, Huang SJ, Qian X, Murphy GF, Vleugels RA. Metastatic basal cell carcinoma of the posterior neck: case report and review of the literature.
Scleromyxedema and the dermato‐neuro syndrome: case report and review of the literature
Authors: Fleming Kirsten E. , Virmani Divya , Sutton Evelyn , Langley Richard , Corbin Jessica , Pasternak Sylvia , Walsh Noreen M.
Published: April 2012

Scleromyxedema is a generalized form of lichen myxedematosus which is characterized by a papular and sclerodermoid skin eruption resulting from dermal fibroblast proliferation and mucin deposition. The majority of patients with scleromyxedema have a monoclonal gammopathy, and other systemic manifestations are common. Herein we describe a case of the ‘dermato‐neuro syndrome’, a rare and sometimes fatal neurologic manifestation of scleromyxedema which consists of fever, convulsions and coma, often preceded by a flu‐like prodrome. In addition, we provide a comprehensive summary of previously published cases of the dermato‐neuro syndrome and discuss the current etiopathogenic theories and treatment options for this rare disease.

Fleming KE, Virmani D, Sutton E, Langley R, Corbin J, Pasternak S, Walsh NM. Scleromyxedema and the dermato‐neuro syndrome: case report and review of the literature.
Oral anticoagulant therapy in Italian patients 80 yr of age or older with atrial fibrillation: a pilot study of low vs. standard PT/INR targets
Authors: Cafolla Arturo , Campanelli Melissa , Baldacci Erminia , Potasso Laura , Bochicchio Raffaele , Dragoni Francesco , Foà Roberto
Published: April 2012

Background

Oral anticoagulation therapy (OAT), which aims to prevent thromboembolism in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), is underused in subjects who are over the age of 80 yr because of the associated bleeding risk. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of OAT with low (2.0) vs. standard (2.5) PT/international normalised ratio (INR) targets in patients over the age of 80.

Materials and Methods

Of 233 patients aged 80 yr or older with AF on OAT, 58 had unstable PT/INR values and achieved reduced targets. These patients were enrolled as a group (A) in a case–control study and were treated with a low (2.0) PT/INR target. They were compared with a second group (B) of 58 additional patients who were matched for age and CHADS scores and treated with a standard (2.5) PT/INR target. Group A OAT parameters were also compared before and after the PT/INR reduction. The time in the therapeutic range (TTR%), PT/INR values >5, haemorrhages and strokes were prospectively evaluated in the two groups after 2 yr of follow‐up.

Results

Of the 116 enrolled patients, 55 group A and 57 group B patients were evaluated. The TTR was 72.59% in group A and 64.43% in group B (P < 0.01). The percent of PT/INR values >5 was 0.68% for group A and 1.42% for group B (P < 0.05). Haemorrhages and thromboses occurred only in group B patients. The before and after analysis in group A showed that a low INR target produced an increase in the TTR (53.05% vs. 72.59%; P < 0.0001) and a reduction in the PT/INR values > 5 (1.72% vs. 0.68%; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

A low PT/INR target seems effective and safe in Italian patients with AF over the age of 80. Further trials are needed to confirm the hypothesis generated by this study.
Larval and early juvenile fish dynamics in main channel and backwater lake habitats of the Illinois River ecosystem
Authors: Nannini Michael A. , Goodrich Jodi , Dettmers John M. , Soluk Daniel A , Wahl David H.
Published: April 2012

The spatial and temporal complexity of large river ecosystems likely promotes biological diversity within riverine larval fish assemblages. However, the focus of most previous riverine studies of larval fish distribution has tended to concentrate mainly on backwater habitats. There has been less focus on the value of the main channel for larval fishes. We sampled two habitats types (three main channel sites and three backwater lakes) along 20 km of the Illinois River ecosystem during 2 years to compare the larval fish distribution along both spatial and environmental gradients between these habitats. Across the 2 years of this study, we found similar trends in the spatial and temporal distribution of larval fish, although there were some differences in densities between years. The relative abundance and size of many of the different fish taxa varied among habitats. Centrarchids, clupeids, poeciliids, cyprinids (excluding common carp) and atherinids were more abundant within backwater lake habitat. In contrast, common carp (Cyprinus carpio), sciaenids, moronids and catostomids were more abundant in main channel habitats. Furthermore, sciaenid and clupeid larvae captured in the backwater lake habitat were larger as the season progressed than those captured in the main channel. Our study suggests that larval fish show habitat specialisation, similar to adults, indicating that both the backwater lakes and the main channel are both important for larval fish and preserving the diversity of the fish assemblages in large floodplain rivers.
Effect of soccer footwear on landing mechanics
Authors: Butler R. J. , Russell M. E. , Queen R.
Published: April 2012

Lower‐extremity injury is common in soccer. A number of studies have begun to assess why specific lower‐extremity injuries occur. However, currently few studies have examined how footwear affects lower‐extremity mechanics. In order to address this question, 14 male (age: 22.1 ± 3.9 years, height: 1.77 ± 0.06 m, and mass: 73.3 ± 11.5 kg) and 14 female (age: 22.8 ± 3.1 years, height: 1.68 ± 0.07 m and mass: 64.4 ± 9.2 kg) competitive soccer players underwent a motion analysis assessment while performing a jump heading task. Each subject performed the task in three different footwear conditions (running shoe, bladed cleat, and turf shoe). Two‐way analyses of variance were used to examine statistical differences in landing mechanics between the footwear conditions while controlling for gender differences. These comparisons were made during two different parts (prior to and following) of a soccer‐specific jump heading task. A statistically significant interaction for the peak dorsiflexion angle (P = 0.02) and peak knee flexion angle (P = 0.05) was observed. Male soccer players exhibited a degree increase in dorsiflexion in the bladed cleat while female soccer players exhibited a three‐degree reduction in peak knee flexion in the bladed cleat condition. Other main effects for gender and footwear were also observed. The results suggest that landing mechanics differ based upon gender, footwear, and the type of landing. Therefore, training interventions aimed at reducing lower‐extremity injury should consider utilizing sport‐specific footwear when assessing movement patterns.
Clinical effects of an essential oil solution used as a coolant during ultrasonic root debridement
Authors: Cosyn J , Miremadi SR , Sabzevar MM , De Bruyn H
Published: April 2012

To cite this article:Int J Dent HygieneDOI: 10.1111/j.1601‐5037.2012.00554.x  Cosyn J, Miremadi SR, Sabzevar MM, De Bruyn H. Clinical effects of an essential oil solution used as a coolant during ultrasonic root debridement.

Abstract:  Aim:  The use of chlorhexidine and povidone iodine solutions applied as a coolant during ultrasonic root debridement for the treatment of chronic periodontitis has been described. Hitherto, this application has not yet been extensively investigated for essential oil solutions. The goal was to clinically explore this and to compare to water irrigation.

Materials and methods:  Thirty‐five chronic periodontitis patients participated in a single‐blind randomized controlled clinical study. Patients were randomly allocated to the control group (n = 18) or test group (n = 17) receiving oral hygiene instructions and ultrasonic root debridement using water as a coolant, respectively, a pure essential oil solution. Oral hygiene was reinforced if necessary at each occasion, and clinical parameters were collected at baseline and after 1 and 3 months.

Results:  Significant pocket reduction (control, 1.02 mm; test, 0.89 mm) and clinical attachment gain (control and test, 0.48 mm) were shown in both groups. However, there were no significant differences between the groups at any point in time for any of the parameters.

Conclusion:  Essential oil solutions do not offer a clinical benefit over water when used as a coolant during ultrasonic root debridement for the treatment of chronic periodontitis.
Reference values for three‐dimensional surface cephalometry in children aged 3–6 years
Authors: Möller M. , Schaupp E. , Massumi‐Möller N. , Zeyher C. , Godt A. , Berneburg M.
Published: April 2012

Möller M., Schaupp E., Massumi‐Möller N., Zeyher C., Godt A., Berneburg M. Reference values for three‐dimensional surface cephalometry in children aged 3–6 years  Orthod Craniofac Res 2012; 15: 103–116. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Structured Abstract

Objective –  This prospective cross‐sectional study design was performed to define reference values for the facial surfaces of 3–6‐year‐old boys and girls using three‐dimensional surface cephalometry.

Material and Methods –  A total of 2290 standardized three‐dimensional facial images from 3 to 6‐year‐old preschool children were separated by gender and assigned to four age categories. All children were Caucasian and revealed no evidence of dentofacial abnormalities. On each image, 31 cephalometric landmarks were marked, resulting in 35 (19 frontal, six lateral, 10 paired) distances and eight angles. Differences between age groups and genders were calculated and significances detected.

Results –  A base table with reference values was compiled, which indicated that boys showed higher values than age‐matched girls and that measured distances increased with age.

Conclusion –  The mean values from this study could be compiled as a reference table for three‐dimensional facial analysis in Caucasian children aged 3–6 years. Such a reference table could be used in comparative studies with other populations or children with craniofacial malformations.
The reliability of the Health Related Quality Of Life questionnaire PedsQL 3.0 Diabetes Module™ for Swedish children with Type 1 diabetes
Authors: Sand Peter , Kljajić Marizela , Schaller Joseph , Forsander Gun
Published: April 2012

Aim:  The overall aim of the study was to assess reliability and accomplish a limited validation of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 3.0 Diabetes Module Scales (PedsQL 3.0), Swedish version in a sample of Swedish children diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes (T1DM). A secondary aim was to assess whether the children’s Health Related Quality of Life (HRQOL) was associated with children’s gender and age and whether the child self‐ and parent proxy reports were consistent.

Methods:  One hundred and thirty families from four diabetes centres participated in this study. The Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0 Generic Core Scales (PedsQL 4.0) and the PedsQL 3.0 were administered to 108 children (aged 5–18 years) with T1DM and 130 parents (of children with T1DM aged 2–18 years).

Results:  The internal consistency of the PedsQL 3.0, Swedish version, reached or exceeded Cronbach’s alpha values of 0.70 for both child self‐ and proxy reports‐ and parent proxy‐reports. The PedsQL 4.0 and PedsQL 3.0 were highly correlated (r = 0.76), indicating convergent validity. The parents reported lower diabetes‐specific HRQOL than the children themselves (p < 0.01). The girls in the study reported lower psychological functioning and treatment adherence compared with the boys (p < 0.05). The oldest children (between 13 and 18 years of age) reported significantly lower diabetes‐specific HRQOL, as compared with younger children (p < 0.05).

Conclusions:  PedsQL 3.0 Diabetes Module can be used as a valuable tool for measuring diabetes‐specific HRQOL in child populations, both in research and in clinical practice.
Neonatal mortality and morbidity in preterm infants born from assisted reproductive technologies
Authors: Picaud JC , Chalies S , Combes C , Mercier G , Dechaud H , Cambonie G
Published: April 2012

Aim:  Premature birth is frequent in infants conceived with assisted reproductive technologies (ART). We sought to determine whether neonatal outcome in ART preterm infants differs from that of spontaneously conceived (SC) preterm infants.

Methods:  Data were prospectively collected in infants born ≤32 weeks after ART or SC. We calculated a composite index of severe morbidity (based on occurrences of severe necrotizing enterocolitis, severe intraventricular haemorrhage, periventricular leukomalacia or bronchopulmonary dysplasia). Survival rate without severe morbidity was compared between the two groups.

Results:  Six hundred and twelve preterm infants were hospitalized in our tertiary care centre: 81 in ART group and 521 in SC group. In the ART group, twin pregnancy (69.1% vs. 15.9%, p < 0.001) and inborn delivery (98.8% vs. 90.0%, p < 0.01) were more frequent. Gestational age (29 vs. 28 weeks, p < 0.05) and birth weight (1100 vs. 1020 g, p < 0.001) were also higher. Survival without severe morbidity was significantly higher in ART infants (76.5% vs. 55.2%, p < 0.001), with the difference mainly observed in infants born ≤28 weeks (22.9% vs. 55.7%, p < 0.001).

Conclusion:  Assisted reproductive technologies was not associated with adverse neonatal outcome. Differences in pregnancy and neonatal characteristics probably explain the increased survival without severe morbidity in ART infants.
The importance of landscape structure for seed dispersal in rain forest fragments
Authors: Jesus Flávia M. , Pivello Vânia R. , Meirelles Sérgio T. , Franco Geraldo A.D.C. , Metzger Jean Paul
Published: April 2012

Questions

What are the main features of the seed rain in a fragmented Atlantic forest landscape? Can seed rain species attributes (life form, dispersal mode, successional status) relate to the spatial arrangement (size and number of fragments, edge density and presence of corridor) of forest fragments in the landscape? How does the rain forest landscape structure affect the seed rain?

Location

Atlantic rainforest, São Paulo State, Southeastern Brazil.

Methods

Seed rain samples were collected monthly throughout 1 yr, counted, identified and classified according to species dispersal mode, successional status and life form. Seed rain composition was compared with woody species near the seed traps. Relationships between seed rain composition and landscape spatial arrangement (fragment area, presence of corridor, number of fragments in the surroundings, proximity of fragments, and edge density) were tested using canonical correspondence analysis (CCA).

Results

We collected 20 142 seeds belonging to 115 taxa, most of them early successional and anemochorous trees. In general, the seed rain had a species composition distinct from that of the nearby forest tree community. Small isolated fragments contained more seeds, mainly of anemochorous, epiphytic and early‐successional species; large fragments showed higher association with zoochorous and late‐successional species compared to small fragments. The CCA significantly distinguished the species dispersal mode according to fragment size and isolation, anemochorous species being associated to small and isolated fragments, and zoochorous species to larger areas and fragment aggregation. Nevertheless, a gradient driven by proximity (PROX) and edge density (ED) segregated lianas (in the positive extremity), early successional and epiphyte species (in the negative end); large fragments were positively associated to PROX and ED.

Conclusions

The results highlight the importance of the size and spatial arrangement of forest patches to promote habitat connectivity and improve the flux of animal‐dispersed seeds. Landscape structure controls seed fluxes and affects plant dispersal capacity, potentially influencing the composition and structure of forest fragments. The seed rain composition may be used to assess the effects of landscape spatial structure on plant assemblages, and provide relevant information for biodiversity conservation.
Identifying priorities to improve maternal and child nutrition among the Khmu ethnic group, Laos: a formative study
Authors: de Sa Joia , Bouttasing Namthipkesone , Sampson Louise , Perks Carol , Osrin David , Prost Audrey
Published: April 2012

Chronic malnutrition in children remains highly prevalent in Laos, particularly among ethnic minority groups. There is limited knowledge of specific nutrition practices among these groups. We explored nutritional status, cultural beliefs and practices of Laos' Khmu ethnic group to inform interventions for undernutrition as part of a Primary Health Care (PHC) project. Mixed methods were used. For background, we disaggregated anthropometric and behavioural indicators from Laos' Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey. We then conducted eight focus group discussions and 33 semi‐structured interviews with Khmu villagers and health care workers, exploring beliefs and practices related to nutrition. The setting was two rural districts in Luang Prabang province, in one of which the PHC project had been established for 3 years. There was a higher prevalence of stunting in the Khmu than in other groups. Disaggregation showed nutrition behaviours were associated with ethnicity, including exclusive breastfeeding. Villagers described strong adherence to post‐partum food restrictions for women, while little change was described in intake during pregnancy. Most children were breastfed, although early introduction of pre‐lacteal foods was noted in the non‐PHC district. There was widespread variation in introduction and diversity of complementary foods. Guidance came predominantly from the community, with some input from health care workers. Interventions to address undernutrition in Khmu communities should deliver clear, consistent messages on optimum nutrition behaviours. Emphasis should be placed on dietary diversity for pregnant and post‐partum mothers, encouraging exclusive breastfeeding and timely, appropriate complementary feeding. The impact of wider governmental policies on food security needs to be further assessed.
THE TOPOGRAPHY OF LEGAL RECOGNITION OF SAME‐SEX RELATIONSHIPS*
Authors: Stein Edward
Published: April 2012

This article categorizes and explains the variety of forms of relationship recognition that have emerged in the United States over the last dozen or so years. Five issues regarding same‐sex marital and nonmarital relationship statuses are examined: (1) eligibility, (2) benefits, (3) dissolution, (4) recognition from other jurisdictions, and (5) the intersection of state and federal law. The article then offers various proposals about what states should do in the face of the options that have emerged: (a) states that recognize same‐sex marriages and nonmarital relationships should adapt their statutes to recognize “substantially similar” relationships; (b) jurisdictions should adopt statutes that require those who solemnize their relationship in a state to consent to that same state's jurisdiction for purposes of dissolution; and (c) states should adopt provisions that disentangle, to the extent possible, state laws relating to marriage and marriage‐like relationships from federal laws relating to marriage. The article also stresses the importance of balancing the benefits of providing people with many options against the value of inter‐jurisdictional recognition.

Key Points for the Family Court Community:

There is a patchwork of recognition and non‐recognition of same‐sex and nonmarital relationship statuses in the United States.

There is a surprising lack of uniformity among states that do in some way recognize same‐sex and/or nonmarital relationships in regards to: the rights, benefits, and obligations that come with a status, who can register or be recognized under such status, and how a state recognizes same‐sex and nonmarital relationships from other jurisdictions (if it recognizes them at all).

The practical implications of this lack of uniformity include confusion and legal problems for those in same‐sex marriages and nonmarital relationships; perhaps the most dramatic example is being unable to legally dissolve one's relationship.
SAME‐SEX DIVORCE IN A DOMA STATE
Authors: Byrn Mary P. , Holcomb Morgan L.
Published: April 2012

When marriages fail, access to judicial divorce is crucial, and typically readily available. When faced with petitions for divorce from same‐sex couples, however, courts in states with Defense of Marriage Acts (DoMAs) are flummoxed; indeed, more often than not, courts in DoMA states refuse access to divorce to same‐sex couples. In this essay, we demonstrate that the courts are wrong. First, the denial of access to divorce is bad policy because it traps couples in defunct relationships and leaves families in a sort of legal limbo—married in some jurisdictions, not married in others, and unable to achieve the finality of divorce. Second, it is constitutionally suspect because the denial of access to divorce violates principles of substantive due process and constitutes unconstitutional discrimination under established equal protection jurisprudence. Finally, the denial of same‐sex divorce is premised on an unnecessarily narrow view of judicial power. State courts, even in DoMA states, have the power to hear and decide divorce petitions—same‐sex or not. In addition, this essay articulates various paths to obtaining same‐sex divorce in DoMA states.

Key Points for the Family Court Community:

State courts’ refusals to grant a same‐sex divorce is a violation of the petitioners’ federal constitutional rights State courts have subject‐matter jurisdiction over same‐sex divorce—even in states with DoMAs that prohibit the court from recognizing same‐sex marriage.

State courts have the power to grant a same‐sex divorce—even in states with DoMAs that prohibit the court from recognizing same‐sex marriage.

State courts can grant a same‐sex divorce by applying their own divorce statutes; by applying the divorce statutes of the marrying state; or through their equitable powers—even in states with DoMAs that prohibit the court from recognizing same‐sex marriage.
MARRIAGE: CIVIL, RELIGIOUS, CONTRACTUAL, AND MORE*
Authors: Nichols Joel
Published: April 2012

Although it is increasingly common to speak of “civil marriage,” that label falls far short of capturing the complexities of marriage. This Essay asks what might it mean for U.S. law to take seriously the civil and religious, contractual and covenantal, individual and communal claims about marriage. Muslims, Jewish, and Christian claimants alike struggle to navigate their religious beliefs about marriage and divorce and the expectations (and requirements) of the state regarding family law. The Essay suggests a way forward through a more explicitly pluralist approach that takes the interplay between law and religion seriously.

Key Points for Family Court Community:

Many legal discussions wrongly break marriage into simple categories of “civil marriage” and “religious marriage” and mistakenly assume that these elements of marriage can be separated.

For many people, the religious aspects of marriage and divorce are more important than the civil aspects.

Recent controversies over shari’a tribunals for family law in the United Kingdom and Canada will not remain isolated, and more controversies about marriage and divorce will soon arise in the United States for religious individuals.

We should be “conscious pluralists” regarding family law and consider both religious and civil aspects of marriage and divorce in law‐creating and decision‐making.
A FAMILY LAW PERSPECTIVE ON PARENTAL INCARCERATION
Authors: Abramowicz Sarah
Published: April 2012

This Article proposes bringing the perspective of family law to bear on the problem of parental incarceration. Sentencing law is in flux, making this an opportune time to reconsider whether and to what extent we should take children's interests into account when sentencing parents. The Article reframes the debate about parental incarceration by viewing it in light of family law's insights about how children develop into their adult selves. The Article formulates a new rationale for considering children's interests when incarcerating their parents, and it offers a method of incorporating such interests that will further both the goals and the legitimacy of criminal law.

Key Points for the Family Court Community:

Family law can help us to understand the extent of developmental harm that parental incarceration can inflict on a child.

The future of criminal sentencing law is now uncertain, making this an important time for the family court community to bring its perspective to bear on the question of whether courts should take children's interests into account when incarcerating parents.
FLOURISHING FAMILIES*
Authors: Huntington Clare
Published: April 2012

Despite considerable reform over the past several decades, family law is still failing families. Instead of strengthening relationships long before problems arise, too often family law waits for a crisis and then intervenes, typically in a heavy‐handed, adversarial fashion. This essay, an extended précis of a forthcoming book, argues that family law should be fundamentally oriented toward fostering strong, stable, positive relationships to prevent crises. Then, if a conflict does arise, family law should intervene in a manner that preserves and repairs relationships.

Key Points for the Family Court Community:

Despite considerable evidence demonstrating the essential role families play in ensuring the well‐being of the next generation, family law does far too little to strengthen families.

Once conflicts do arise, family law pits one family member against the other, undermining the relationships that will almost certainly continue long after the legal action ends.

Family law should be fundamentally oriented toward fostering strong, stable, positive relationships, which will require changes to both the structural relationship between families and the state and the dispute‐resolution system.
THE FIRST FATHER: PERSPECTIVES ON THE PRESIDENT'S FATHERHOOD INITIATIVE*
Authors: Weaver Jessica Dixon
Published: April 2012

This article presents an analysis of the thirteen‐year‐old President's Fatherhood Initiative utilized by the executive branch to tackle the problem of absent fathers in America. It argues that this social policy attempts to recapture the economic incentives central to the controversial Moynihan Report of 1965, emphasizing patriarchal and classist solutions to America's family crisis. The programs instituted through the Fatherhood Initiative stigmatize black and brown fathers and fail to address underlying government policy issues that impact their ability to be present and financially supportive in their children's lives. The programs still emphasize the marriage dyad as a cure‐all rather than seeking to support the various family forms that exist today, calling into question whether the Fatherhood Initiative has contributed to the improvement of children's well‐being.

Key Points for Family Court Community:

President's Fatherhood Initiative is a national family policy that recycles the Moynihan Report of 1965, turning the focus from African‐American matriarchal‐run families to absentee fathers.

Almost half of over $1.5 billion dedicated to the President's Fatherhood Initiative has been used to promote marriage to low‐income, minority fathers, while research shows that investment in increasing the level of education of biological fathers would have a greater effect on their commitment to the mothers of their children and financial ability to care for their children.

Many of the missing fathers are in prison, and focus on eliminating the mass incarceration of African‐American men would go a long way towards improving the number of fathers who are present with their families.

After sixteen years, there is still no comprehensive evaluation that gauges how successful the Fatherhood Initiative has been in improving children's well‐being.

Fatherhood and Marriage are not synonymous, and the executive branch should concentrate more on supporting the networked families and home environment of poor children in order to improve their well‐being.
HLA gene and haplotype frequencies in Russians, Bashkirs and Tatars, living in the Chelyabinsk Region (Russian South Urals)
Authors: Suslova T. A. , Burmistrova A. L. , Chernova M. S. , Khromova E. B. , Lupar E. I. , Timofeeva S. V. , Devald I. V. , Vavilov M. N. , Darke C.
Published: April 2012

We have characterized the HLA‐A, ‐B, ‐DRB1, ‐DQA1 and ‐DQB1 profiles of three major ethnic groups living in Chelyabinsk Region of Russian South Urals, viz., Russians (n = 207), Bashkirs (n = 146) and Tatars (n = 135). First field level typing was performed by PCR using sequence‐specific primers. Estimates included carriage and gene frequencies, linkage disequilibrium and its significance and related values. Population comparisons were made between the allele family frequencies of the three populations and between these populations and 20 others using a dendrogram. Chelyabinsk Region Russians demonstrate all the features typical of a Caucasoid population, but also have some peculiarities. Together with Tatars, Russians have high frequencies of allele families and haplotypes characteristic of Finno‐Ugric populations. This presupposes a Finno‐Ugric impact on Russian and Tatar ethnogenesis. However, this was not apparent in Bashkirs, the first of the three populations to live in this territory, and implies admixture with populations of a Finno‐Ugric origin with precursors of Russians and Tatars before they came to the South Urals. The Bashkirs appear close to Mongoloids in allele and haplotype distribution. However, Bashkirs cannot be labelled either as typical Mongoloids or as Caucasoids. Thus, Bashkirs possess some alleles and haplotypes frequent in Mongoloids, which supports the Turkic impact on Bashkir ethnogenesis, but also possess the AH 8.1 haplotype, which could evidence an ancient Caucasoid population that took part in their ethnic formation or of recent admixture with adjacent populations (Russians and Tatars). Bashkirs showed no features of populations with a substantial Finno‐Ugric component, for example Chuvashes or Russian Saami. This disputes the commonly held belief of a Finno‐Ugric origin for Bashkirs. Tatars appeared close to many European populations. However, they possessed some characteristics of Asiatic populations possibly reflecting a Mongoloid influence on Tatar ethnogenesis. Some aspects of HLA in Tatars appeared close to Chuvashes and Bulgarians, thus supporting the view that Tatars may be descendents of ancient Bulgars.
Overcoming barriers to practice: A nurse practitioner‐led model
Authors: Heale Roberta
Published: April 2012

Abstract  Purpose: Nurse practitioners (NPs) in Ontario, Canada, experience many barriers to practice that negatively influence their ability to increase access to comprehensive primary healthcare services. A NP‐Led Clinic Model has helped to overcome many of the barriers and has had a real impact on access to care.

Data sources: Legislative and regulatory documents from the government of Ontario were reviewed. Reflection upon the barriers to NP practice in Ontario and the positive impact of the new model of care is presented.

Conclusions: NPs with a voice in the governance and operations of a workplace have the potential to reduce barriers to practice.

Implications for practice: Lessons for NPs internationally can be learned from the experience of the Ontario NP‐Led Clinic Model.
Independent and Incremental Value of Severely Enlarged Left Atrium in Risk Stratification of Very Elderly Patients With Chronic Systolic Heart Failure
Authors: Bajraktari Gani , Fontanive Paolo , Qirko Spiro , Elezi Shpend , Simioniuc Anca , Huqi Alda , Berisha Venera , Dini Frank L.
Published: April 2012

Congest Heart Fail. ****;**:**–**. ©2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The authors sought to assess the impact on survival of demographic, clinical, and echo‐Doppler parameters in patients with chronic heart failure due to left ventricular systolic dysfunction divided according to age groups. This study included 734 patients (age 69±11 years) who were classified into tertiles of age: I (22–66 years), II (67–76 years), and III (77–94 years). Severely enlarged left atrial size was defined as ≥52 mm in men and ≥47 mm in women. Multivariable analysis identified male sex (P=.018) and severely enlarged left atrium (P=.024) as significant correlates of all‐cause mortality in the very elderly cohort, while restrictive filling pattern (RFP) (P=.004) and New York Heart Association class III or IV (P=.005) among patients of the first tertile and RFP (P=.028) among patients in the second tertile were independently associated with mortality after 30±21 months of follow‐up. At the interactive stepwise model in the very elderly population, a severely enlarged left atrium, added to the model after clinical parameters and ejection fraction, moved the chi‐square value from 20.7 to 25.8 (P=.048). RFP emerged as the single best predictor of all‐cause mortality in the younger and intermediate ranges, whereas severely enlarged left atrium was the best predictor in the very elderly.
Profile of intraocular tumour necrosis factor‐α and interleukin‐6 in diabetic subjects with different degrees of diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Gustavsson Carin , Agardh Carl‐David , Agardh Elisabet
Published: April 2012

Purpose:  To assess and correlate the levels of inflammatory mediators in the eyes from non‐diabetic and diabetic subjects without retinopathy (NDR), with non‐proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) or with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) to corresponding erum levels.

Methods:  The levels of interleukin 1β, interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) and tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) were analysed by an ELISA‐mimicking technique in the vitreous from 26 diabetic subjects with active PDR and 27 non‐diabetic subjects, or by a multiplex bead assay in the aqueous humour from 35 diabetic subjects with NDR/NPDR and 40 non‐diabetic subjects. Intraocular protein production was estimated in vitreous specimens by calculating a vitreous/serum ratio.

Results:  In the vitreous, IL‐6 was higher in diabetic [157.5 (25.0–1401.0) pg/ml; median (min–max)] than in non‐diabetic subjects [44.0 (5.0–4425) pg/ml; p = 0.021]. The vitreous/serum ratio was high (55.5:1 and 16:1, respectively), suggesting intraocular production. TNF‐α was lower in diabetic [18.0 (8.0–46.0) pg/ml] than in non‐diabetic subjects [22.0 (13.0–47.0) pg/ml; p = 0.034], but the vitreous/serum ratio was elevated in both groups (2:1 and 3.4:1, respectively). TNF‐α levels were higher in serum from diabetic subjects [9.0 (5.0–53.0) pg/ml versus 6.7 (3.0–11.0) pg/ml; p < 0.001]. Aqueous levels of inflammatory mediators did not differ between diabetic subjects with NDR/NPDR and non‐diabetic subjects despite elevated TNF‐α in serum [27.8 (6.8–153.7) pg/ml versus 16.4 (4.1–42.4) pg/ml; p = 0.021].

Conclusion:  Intraocular inflammation seems to be involved in PDR but does not seem to be prominent in early retinopathy stages, i.e. NDR or NPDR. Diabetic subjects have an overall increased inflammatory activity compared to non‐diabetic subjects, as demonstrated by increased serum levels of TNF‐α.