bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Enhanced recruitment of larger predators in the presence of large prey
Authors: Takatsu Kunio , Kishida Osamu 
Published: March 2020

Abstract

Most carnivores undergo diet shift from smaller to larger prey items during ontogeny. The trophic relationship between a growing carnivore and larger prey is representative of a size‐structured predator–prey interaction. The strength of this interaction is, in part, determined by the recruitment of individuals from smaller predatory size classes into larger predatory size classes. Therefore, it is interesting to investigate how larger prey alter the recruitment of smaller predator size classes into larger predator size classes, since this can affect their own future predation risk.

Past empirical studies have exclusively documented that large prey reduce predator recruitment by decreasing growth and/or survival of the smaller predators. In this study, we provide empirical evidence of the contrasting pattern: large prey enhance the recruitment of smaller predators into larger predators even though they increase cannibalism mortality of the smaller predators. We have done this here by studying the trophic interaction between predatory salamander larvae Hynobius retardatus and the frog tadpoles Rana pirica that represent their large prey.

In a field experiment in which salamander hatchlings were exposed to the presence or absence of large frog tadpoles, we found that more giant salamanders emerged in the presence of frog tadpoles than in their absence. Reassignment of frog tadpoles (to both treatments) in the subsequent experimental period showed that the enhanced emergence of giant salamanders in the presence of frog tadpoles leads to the intensification of salamander predation on the frog tadpoles.

In an additional laboratory experiment, to better understand the underlying mechanisms, we manipulated both the presence of frog tadpoles and the occurrence of cannibalism between salamander hatchlings. This experiment revealed that frog tadpoles intensify the cannibalism of salamander larvae during their hatchling stage, thus allowing more salamander larvae to become large‐sized predators.

Our results suggest that frog tadpoles can inadvertently intensify their own future predation risk by intensifying cannibalistic interactions among predatory salamander hatchlings, thereby enhancing the degree of predator recruitment to a larger size class. Hence, large prey can enhance the recruitment of individuals from small predator size classes into larger predator size classes.
Translocated native pine martens Martes martes alter short‐term space use by invasive non‐native grey squirrels Sciurus carolinensis
Authors: McNicol Catherine M. , Bavin David , Bearhop Stuart , Ferryman Mark , Gill Robin , Goodwin Cecily E. D. , MacPherson Jenny , Silk Matthew J. , McDonald Robbie A. 
Published: March 2020

Abstract

Predators can shape the distributions and dynamics of their prey through direct and indirect mechanisms. Where prey animals are regarded as pests, the augmentation of predator populations might offer a potential tool in their management.

Declines in invasive non‐native grey squirrel Sciurus carolinensis populations in Ireland and Scotland have been related to an increase in range and density of native pine marten Martes martes populations. These reductions in grey squirrel abundance have, in turn, been linked to recovery of native red squirrels Sciurus vulgaris.

Taking the opportunity presented by a conservation translocation of pine martens from Scotland to Wales, we investigated the short‐term effects of exposure to translocated martens on the space use and survival of resident grey squirrels.

Grey squirrel range size and daily distance travelled increased significantly with increasing exposure to martens but we found no effect of marten exposure on the recapture probability (i.e. apparent survival) of the sampled squirrels within the study time frame. This is suggestive of contemporary, non‐lethal effects changing the ranging or foraging regimes of squirrels, due either to predator avoidance and/or earlier lethal effects associated with a reduction in intraspecific competition.

Synthesis and applications. Our evaluation mimics the conditions experienced by grey squirrels at the front edge of naturally recovering pine marten populations and presents direct evidence that pine marten translocations could play an influential role in the behaviour and dynamics of invasive non‐native grey squirrel populations. Translocations of native predators, undertaken primarily for biodiversity conservation, could therefore find additional application in managing the ecological and economic impacts of invasive non‐native prey.
Modelling New Zealand dairy products: evidence on export survival and duration
Authors: Luo Yangyuyu , Bano Sayeeda 
Published: March 2020

This article presents evidence concerning the pattern of New Zealand dairy exports duration and survival from 1989 to 2017. It also analyses the influence of a set of supply, demand and gravity‐type drivers on the hazard rate for New Zealand dairy export relationships. The findings are summarised as follows. First, New Zealand dairy export relationships are dynamic with numerous entries and exits to and from foreign markets. Around half of the relationships survived for only 1–2 years at the sequence level. Second, duration of sequence, left‐censoring, initial export, decomposed sequences, New Zealand export price index, the number of cows available for dairy production, the number of origins and destinations, and destination partner’s GDP are the most significant factors reducing the hazard rate of export relationships. As regards the effects of the non‐tariff measures, it is interesting that technical barriers of trade are found to significantly decrease the hazard rate. Only pre‐shipment inspection and contingent trade protective measures are significant impediments to New Zealand dairy export relationships. Finally, hazard probabilities for New Zealand dairy export relationships are estimated to be ‘L‐shaped’ over time, whether or not non‐tariff measures are applied to New Zealand dairy products.
Investigation on mercury migration discipline in different paper‐plastic food packaging containers
Authors: Peng Xianglian , Fu Hongjun , Hu Jinbo , Luo Feijun 
Published: March 2020

AbstractThe understanding of the migration of mercury from packaging materials to food stuffs is the prerequisite for the development of food safety regulations. In this article, the migration of mercury from food paper‐plastic packaging containers to four food stimulants under different migrated temperatures is studied. The results show that the mobility and the maximum migration volume of mercury increase at certain temperatures when the migration time is extended. It is also noted that the time to reach equilibrium is reduced as the temperature increases. Meanwhile, different solvents appear various different while the rates of migration are 3% acetic acid >10% ethanol >20% ethanol >50% ethanol. But they show the same trend at the different temperatures. Our data suggest that different solvents, temperatures, and food stimulants affect the migration rates, and ameliorate those conditions will reduce migration and promote food quality.
RNA‐seq‐based quanitative transcriptome analysis of meat color and taste from chickens administered by eucalyptus leaf polyphenols extract
Authors: Li Wei , Zhang Xiao‐ying , Du Jie , Li Yi‐feng , Chen Yun‐jiao , Cao Yong 
Published: March 2020

AbstractTo evaluate how eucalyptus leaf polyphenol extract (EPE) affects chicken meat color and taste, we added different levels of EPE (0%, 0.06%, 0.09%, and 0.12%) to chicken feed. The redness (a* value) and the myoglobin content of breast muscle in EPE group were remarkably higher. Furthermore, the guanosine monophosphate, histidine, and glycine muscle contents were also enhanced. Transcriptome analysis showed that 10 candidate genes related to meat quality were affected by EPE treatment. The identified genes, with functions critical to chicken meat color and taste, will help to determine the molecular mechanisms of EPE.
Decadal and Episodic Changes in Morphology and Migration of the Confluence Bar of Two Alluvial Rivers in Louisiana, USA
Authors: Wang Bo , Xu Y. Jun 
Published: March 2020

AbstractPast research on fluvial dynamics at the confluence of two alluvial rivers has mainly focused on downstream flow structure and bed scoring, often using laboratory experiments and numerical modeling. Little is investigated about yearly and episodic dynamics of confluence mouth bars that can affect downstream morphology using field measurements. In this study, we analyzed the migration of a confluence mouth bar of two free meandering alluvial rivers, the Amite and Comite Rivers in coastal Louisiana, USA from 2002 to 2017. Remote sensing images were utilized to investigate the decade‐long morphologic changes. To assess episodic dynamics, we employed terrestrial laser scanning measurements to acquire high‐accuracy digital elevation models at the confluence before and after three floods in 2017. Our study found that the Amite‐Comite confluence mouth bar migrated downstream 55 m in the past 15 years, and its angle reduced by 55° from 100° to 45°. The fast migration was a result of sediment deposition and channel deformation around the confluence mainly during the years when the tributary‐to‐main channel discharge was lower (<0.25). The study further reveals that a single moderate flood could strongly affect the mouth bar, as shown by an increase of the projected surface area by 114% and an increase of volume of the confluence mouth bar by 68%.
Vertebral fractures following stereotactic body radiotherapy for spine metastases
Authors: Abbouchie Hussein , Chao Michael , Tacey Mark , Lim Joon Daryl , Ho Huong , Guerrieri Mario , Ng Michael , Foroudi Farshad 
Published: March 2020

SummaryStereotactic body radiotherapy has emerged as one of the preferred treatments for patients with spine metastases, with the potential for long‐term control from lesion irradiation. Post‐treatment vertebral compression fractures are a known complication of this therapy, contributing to worsening pain and reduced quality of life, sometimes requiring surgical intervention. This review explores the current knowledge of post‐radiotherapy fractures, in terms of the rates and associated predictive factors. A search of databases including Medline, Embase and the Cochrane Library was conducted using keywords such as ‘vertebral compression fracture’, ‘stereotactic body radiotherapy’ and ‘spine metastases’. The search was limited to published studies up to March 2019, reporting clinical outcomes including both the post‐treatment fracture rate and statistical identification of associated risk factors. Rates of post‐treatment fractures ranged from 4 to 39%. A variety of factors were found to increase the risk, including the appearance of lytic vertebral disease, degree of pre‐existing compression, spinal malalignment, increased dose per fraction and a Spinal Instability Neoplastic Score >6. This knowledge can enable clinicians to counsel patients when considering management options for spine metastases, maintaining the balance between local tumour control and the risk of subsequent fracture.
An Emergency Medicine–focused Summary of the HFSA/SAEM/ISHLT Clinical Consensus Document on the Emergency Management of Patients With Ventricular Assist Devices
Authors: Darling Chad E. , Martindale Jennifer L. , Hiestand Brian C. , Bonnell Mark , Colvin Monica , DeFilippis Ersilia M. , Elliott Tonya , Hamad Eman , Pinney Sean P. , Shah Keyur B. , Vierecke Juliane , Givertz Michael M. 
Published: March 2020

AbstractMechanical circulatory support is increasingly used as a long‐term treatment option for patients with end‐stage heart failure. Patients with implanted ventricular assist devices are at high risk for a range of diverse medical urgencies and emergencies. Given the increasing prevalence of mechanical circulatory support devices, this expert clinical consensus document seeks to help inform emergency medicine and prehospital providers regarding the approach to acute medical and surgical conditions encountered in these complex patients.
Eyes on the prize: CEO and director retirement preferences and acquisitions
Authors: Clout Victoria , Ghannam Samir , Loyeung Anna , Yang Jin Sug 
Published: March 2020

AbstractWe examine whether the age of CEOs and independent directors impacts the likelihood of receiving a successful takeover offer. First, we replicate and confirm the results of Jenter and Lewellen and find that retirement age CEOs (age 64–66) are more likely to receive successful takeover offers. Second, we extend their study by investigating the retirement preferences of independent directors. We find that the likelihood of receiving a successful takeover offer increases when a higher proportion of independent directors are at retirement age. This finding suggests that independent directors have similar retirement preferences to CEOs.
Trade‐off expression of melatonin receptor subtypes (Mel1a and Mel1b) and androgen receptor in lung of a tropical bird, Perdicula asiatica
Authors: Kharwar Rajesh Kumar , Singh Vaishali , Haldar Chandana 
Published: March 2020

AbstractThe role of circulatory steroid hormone along with melatonin in lung of any seasonally breeding bird has never been explored so far. This could be interesting because steroid hormones are immunosuppressive while melatonin is immunostimulatory in nature. In our present study, we report the effect of exogenous melatonin and testosterone on expression of melatonin receptor subtypes (Mel1a and Mel1b) and androgen receptor in lung of a tropical bird Perdicula asiatica. Birds were collected from vicinity of Varanasi and acclimatized in laboratory with sufficient food and water. The birds were treated with melatonin and testosterone at dose of 25 µg/100 g B.wt./day and 1 mg/100 g B.wt./day, respectively, for 28 days. At the end of the experiment, the birds were sacrificed and lung tissue and blood sample were collected for immunohistochemistry, Western blot analysis and hormonal assay. Testosterone treatment increased circulatory testosterone and upregulated expression of androgen receptors whereas downregulated expression of melatonin receptor subtypes Mel1a and Mel1b. Melatonin administration increased peripheral melatonin and upregulated expression of melatonin receptor subtypes Mel1a and Mel1b while downregulated androgen receptor. Thus, our results suggest that a trade‐off relationship between melatonin and testosterone exists in regulation of their receptors in lung of Perdicula asiatica.
Struggling urology trainee: a qualitative study into causes of underperformance
Authors: McLeod Kathryn , Waller Susan , King Dennis , Nestel Debra 
Published: March 2020

AbstractBackgroundUrological surgical trainees who underperform are difficult to identify, manage and require significant resources in an already stretched system relying on pro bono supervisors that often have no formal training. While there are commentaries on how to manage underperforming surgical trainees, there is a lack of data detailing the complex reasons for underperformance. It is important to understand the complexities contributing to underperformance so that improved remediation plans can be developed which can better help trainees meet expectations and succeed.MethodsIn this qualitative study, individual semi‐structured interviews were conducted with key persons identified as having very high levels of background knowledge and involvement with current underperforming urological surgery trainees. Transcribed interviews were thematically analysed.ResultsTen interviews were conducted, including nine urology consultants and one educational manager. Five themes were identified: underperformance is a small but profound issue; spiral of failure; the changing trainee; lack of insight and under supported supervisors and posts.ConclusionCauses of underperformance in urology trainees are complex and multifactorial. Behavioural issues were considered the most likely cause, which are also the most challenging to remedy. However, in addition to trainee factors, causative factors related to supervision and training were identified. Addressing all of these issues is paramount if effective remediation of these trainees is to occur.
Biallelic loss of FAM46C triggers tumor growth with concomitant activation of Akt signaling in multiple myeloma cells
Authors: Kanasugi Jo , Hanamura Ichiro , Ota Akinobu , Karnan Sivasundaram , Lam Vu Quang , Mizuno Shohei , Wahiduzzaman Md , Rahman Md Lutfur , Hyodo Toshinori , Konishi Hiroyuki , Tsuzuki Shinobu , Hosokawa Yoshitaka , Takami Akiyoshi 
Published: March 2020

AbstractLoss of heterozygosity or mutation of the family with sequence similarity 46, member C (FAM46C) gene on chromosome band 1p12 is associated with shorter overall survival of patients with multiple myeloma (MM). In this study, using human MM cell lines (KMS‐11, OCI‐My5, and ANBL‐6), we generated FAM46C−/− cell clones and examined the effect of disruption of FAM46C on cell survival and cellular signaling. Cell proliferation assays showed increased clonogenicity of FAM46C−/− KMS‐11 cells compared to WT cells. Xenograft experiments showed significantly shorter overall survival of mice harboring the FAM46C−/− cell‐derived tumors than mice with the FAM46CWT cell‐derived tumors. Notably, levels of phosphorylated Akt and its substrates increased both in vitro and in vivo in the FAM46C−/− cells compared to WT cells. In addition, caspase activities decreased in the FAM46C−/− cells. Results of gene set enrichment analysis showed that loss of FAM46C significantly activated serum‐responsive genes while inactivating phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN)‐related genes. Mechanistically, loss of FAM46C decreased the PTEN activity, number of apoptotic cells, and caspase activities. PF‐04691502, a selective PI3K inhibitor, suppressed the augmented phosphorylation of Akt and its substrate FoxO3a. Treatment with afuresertib (a specific Akt inhibitor) in combination with bortezomib additively decreased FAM46C−/− MM cell survival. Collectively, this study is the first to report that loss of FAM46C triggers the concomitant activation of the PI3K‐Akt signaling pathway, which might be a therapeutic target for MM with abnormalities in the FAM46C gene.
Polyp detection algorithm can detect small polyps: Ex vivo reading test compared with endoscopists
Authors: Guo Zhe , Nemoto Daiki , Zhu Xin , Li Qin , Aizawa Masato , Utano Kenichi , Isohata Noriyuki , Endo Shungo , Kawarai Lefor Alan , Togashi Kazutomo 
Published: March 2020

Background and Study AimsSmall polyps are occasionally missed during colonoscopy. This study was conducted to validate the diagnostic performance of a polyp‐detection algorithm to alert endoscopists to unrecognized lesions.MethodsA computer‐aided detection (CADe) algorithm was developed based on convolutional neural networks using training data from 1991 still colonoscopy images from 283 subjects with adenomatous polyps. The CADe algorithm was evaluated on a validation dataset including 50 short videos with 1–2 polyps (3.5 ± 1.5 mm, range 2–8 mm) and 50 videos without polyps. Two expert colonoscopists and two physicians in training separately read the same videos, blinded to the presence of polyps. The CADe algorithm was also evaluated using eight full videos with polyps and seven full videos without a polyp.ResultsThe per‐video sensitivity of CADe for polyp detection was 88% and the per‐frame false‐positive rate was 2.8%, with a confidence level of ≥30%. The per‐video sensitivity of both experts was 88%, and the sensitivities of the two physicians in training were 84% and 76%. For each reader, the frames with missed polyps appearing on short videos were significantly less than the frames with detected polyps, but no trends were observed regarding polyp size, morphology or color. For full video readings, per‐polyp sensitivity was 100% with a per‐frame false‐positive rate of 1.7%, and per‐frame specificity of 98.3%.ConclusionsThe sensitivity of CADe to detect small polyps was almost equivalent to experts and superior to physicians in training. A clinical trial using CADe is warranted.
Equine peripheral cemental defects and dental caries: Four case reports
Authors: Lundström T. , Birkhed D. 
Published: March 2020

SummaryThis study reports four cases of peripheral cemental defects and dental caries in horses and possible predisposing factors. The cases demonstrated different scenarios, which indicate possible predisposing factors. Feeding regime, pH of the drinking water and periodontal disease may be such risk factors. Thus, we conclude that peripheral cemental defects and dental caries have a multifactorial background, where environmental factors and feeding regimes may play an important role.
Impact of road transportation development on habitat quality in economically developed areas: A case study of Jiangsu Province, China
Authors: Zhou Xiaoping , Xiao Longkai , Lu Xiao , Sun Dongqi 
Published: March 2020

AbstractThe excessive expansion of road transportation often has an impact on the quality of regional habitats. This paper attempts to assess the impact of road transportation on regional habitat quality in economically developed areas. A kernel density analysis was used to characterise the road transportation development in Jiangsu Province from 2000 to 2015. An Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Trade‐offs (InVEST) habitat quality model was applied to assess changes in habitat quality. Furthermore, a fixed‐effect regression model was utilised to examine the impact of road transportation development in Jiangsu Province on habitat quality. The analysis indicates that the average kernel density of road transportation in the province increased from 0.109 to 0.551 km/km2 while the habitat quality decreased from 0.51 to 0.48. The development of road transportation in Jiangsu Province has had a serious negative impact on the quality of the habitat. For every 1‐ha increase in land area for road use, the habitat quality index will decrease by 0.066; for every 1 km/km2 increase in road transportation kernel density, the habitat quality index will decline by 0.121.
The relationship of self‐compassion and hope with quality of life for individuals with bleeding disorders
Authors: Klein Darci E. , Winterowd Carrie L. , Ehrhardt Meredith D. , Carter Jenny Carrick , Khan Osman , Mayes Sunnye 
Published: March 2020

AbstractIntroductionMinimal research has been conducted examining the relationship of positive psychology variables with quality of life (QOL) for individuals with bleeding disorders. While many individuals manage their bleeding disorders well, some are at higher risk of developing psychosocial complications due to the daily stressors of managing illness‐related symptoms.AimThe purpose of this study is to better understand the relationships between two positive psychology variables, self‐compassion and hope and QOL (overall, psychosocial and physical) among individuals diagnosed with bleeding disorders.MethodsParticipants completed a survey identifying demographic information as well as rating scales of self‐compassion, hope and quality of life. We conducted Pearson correlational and standard multiple regression analyses to explore the bivariate and linear relationships between the aforementioned variables in a sample of 86 patients with bleeding disorders between the ages of 15 and 65.ResultsSelf‐compassion and hope were significantly related to QOL. Together, self‐compassion and hope were predictive of overall QOL, psychosocial QOL and physical QOL. However, hope was the only individual predictor of all three QOL dimensions.ConclusionDue to the significant relationships found between self‐compassion, hope and QOL in this sample, it may be beneficial to incorporate positive psychology factors into the treatment of those diagnosed with bleeding disorders, especially those at higher risk for decreased QOL.