bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Ayahuasca Treatment Center Safety for the Western Seeker
Authors: Ray Raven Renèe , Lassiter Kerry S. 
Published: September 2016

AbstractAyahuasca, an ancient Amazonian psychedelic tea traditionally used ceremonially among indigenous peoples, has recently become known as a possible treatment for a wide range of disorders. The awareness of this sacred medicine has grown exponentially over the past decade, attracting westerners from a wide variety of backgrounds, hoping to find treatment for a myriad of emotional and physical illnesses, as well as spiritual needs. In the wake of the commercialization and westernization of the use of ayahuasca, and the subsequent proliferation of ayahuasca treatment centers, this paper examines the benefits and possible risks of this form of therapy in an effort to create a safety protocol for Westerners in this context. The most practical approach to increasing safety for Westerners attending these Amazonian treatment centers is to educate the seeker prior to treatment and to provide access to specialized therapeutic aftercare services.
Systematic review with meta‐analysis: fundic gland polyps and proton pump inhibitors
Authors: Martin F. C. , Chenevix‐Trench G. , Yeomans N. D. 
Published: September 2016

SummaryBackgroundA causal association between proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use and fundic gland polyps has been suggested, but the data are conflicting.AimTo clarify the relationship through a meta‐analysis of the existing data.MethodsA systematic retrieval and selection of records was performed. The main inclusion criteria were original studies reporting the prevalence of fundic gland polyps in PPI users or the reverse, compared to controls. Key outcomes were the odds ratios (OR) for fundic gland polyp prevalence in association with PPI use, prevalence of PPI use amongst subjects with fundic gland polyps and fundic gland polyp prevalence among PPI users. Statistical analysis was performed using Mix 2.0 Pro.ResultsThe initial search using electronic databases and manual searching retrieved 339 peer‐reviewed articles and abstracts. Twenty articles met all inclusion and exclusion criteria, with a total of 40 218 subjects included. The meta‐analysis of 12 studies revealed an increase in fundic gland polyps amongst PPI users compared to controls (OR 2.46, 95% CI 1.42–4.27,P = 0.001), particularly among individuals taking PPIs for at least 6 months (OR: 4.71, 95% CI 2.22–9.99,P < 0.001) or 12 months (OR: 5.32, 95% CI 2.58–10.99,P < 0.001).ConclusionsProton pump inhibitor usage is associated with a significantly increased prevalence of fundic gland polyps, and there is a trend for this to increase with longer length of PPI exposure. However, the meta‐analysis is limited mainly to cohort studies.
Feasibility of the Participatory Experience Survey and the Setting Affordances Survey for use in evaluation of programmes serving youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities
Authors: Liljenquist K. , Coster W. , Kramer J. , Rossetti Z. 
Published: September 2016

AbstractBackgroundParticipation by youth with disabilities in recreational activities has been shown to promote the development of important skills needed for transition to adulthood. The Participatory Experience Survey (PES) and the Setting Affordances Survey (SAS) were developed for use by recreational programmes serving youth with significant intellectual and developmental disabilities (SIDD) to assess participant experiences and ensure that participants are afforded optimal opportunities to develop these skills. This paper presents a feasibility evaluation to determine the appropriateness of the PES and the SAS for use in a programme evaluation context.MethodThe PES and the SAS were used to evaluate a programme serving youth with SIDD in the greater northwest region of the United States. Three recreational activities were evaluated: an art project, trip to a zoo and a track practice. Programme volunteers used the SAS to assess opportunities and affordances offered within each activity. The PES was then given to 10 young people in each activity to capture their experiences. It was hypothesized that each setting would afford different experiences and developmental opportunities because of the differing nature of the activities.ResultsThe PES and SAS were found to be feasible for conducting a programme evaluation. All three settings offered varying types of experiences and affordances. Notably, as measured by the SAS, opportunity for skill development was greater in more structured activities; the zoo had the fewest opportunities for skill development and the art project had the most skill development opportunities. Youth answered ‘no’ most often to ‘asking for help’ and ‘helping a kid’, suggesting changes to offer more opportunities to develop these skills would be beneficial in all three activities.ConclusionThese new instruments offer programmes a means to more fully include young people with disabilities during programme evaluations, leading to better‐structured, more supportive programmes.
Patterns of simultaneous patch test reactions to thiurams and dithiocarbamates in 164 patients
Authors: Aalto‐Korte Kristiina , Pesonen Maria 
Published: September 2016

SummaryBackgroundThiurams and dithiocarbamates are structurally related sensitizing rubber accelerators.ObjectivesTo study patterns of simultaneous patch test reactions to thiurams and dithiocarbamates at the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health in 1991–2015.MethodsWe searched the patch test files for patients with allergic reactions to thiuram mix, its four components, and three dithiocarbamates, and analysed patterns of simultaneous reactions to these test substances.ResultsWe found 155 patients who reacted positively to at least one thiuram or dithiocarbamate in the rubber chemical series. Thirty‐four (22%) of these patients reacted positively to some dithiocarbamate derivatives. Twenty‐one reacted positively to zinc dimethyldithiocarbamate, 20 to zinc diethyldithiocarbamate, and 1 to zinc dibutyldithiocarbamate. All dithiocarbamate‐allergic patients reacted positively to some thiurams, and their thiuram reactions were often strong or extreme positive. Nine thiuram mix reactions turned out to be false‐positive reactions, without reactions to the constituents, and 24 patients showed false‐negative reactions to thiuram mix during the same time period.ConclusionsDithiocarbamate contact allergy was always connected to thiuram allergy. Screening dithiocarbamate allergy with carba mix thus appears to be unnecessary, but ways to improve the present thiuram mix should be investigated. Meanwhile, individual thiurams are best for diagnosing contact allergy to these accelerators.
Hyperuricemia protects against low bone mineral density, osteoporosis and fractures: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Veronese Nicola , Carraro Sara , Bano Giulia , Trevisan Caterina , Solmi Marco , Luchini Claudio , Manzato Enzo , Caccialanza Riccardo , Sergi Giuseppe , Nicetto Davide , Cereda Emanuele 
Published: September 2016

AbstractBackgroundSerum uric acid (SUA) accounts for about 50% of extracellular antioxidant activity, suggesting that hyperuricemia may have a protective role in diseases characterized by high levels of oxidative stress, such as osteoporosis. We aimed to meta‐analyse data regarding bone mineral density (BMD), osteoporosis and fractures in people with higher SUA vs. lower SUA concentrations.Materials and methodsTwo investigators conducted a literature search using PubMed and Scopus, without language restrictions. Standardized mean differences (SMDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used for BMD; risk ratios (RRs) and adjusted odds ratios (ORs) for cross‐sectional data. Most possible adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) were used to assess the association between baseline SUA and incident fractures.ResultsOf 1405 initial hits, 19 studies were eligible including a total of 55 859 participants. Subjects with higher SUA levels had significantly higher BMD values for the spine (six studies; SMD = 0·29; 95% CI: 0·22–0·35; I2 = 47%), total hip (seven studies; SMD = 0·29; 95% CI: 0·24–0·34; I2 = 33%) and femoral neck (six studies; SMD = 0·25; 95% CI: 0·16–0·34; I2 = 71%). Simple correlation analyses substantially confirmed these findings. An increase of one standard deviation in SUA levels reduced the number of new fractures at follow‐up (three studies; HR = 0·83; 95% CI: 0·74–0·92; I2 = 0%). No significant differences between men and women emerged, although data about women were limited.ConclusionsHyperuricemia was found independently associated with BMD and fractures, supporting a protective role for uric acid in bone metabolism disorders.
Default mode network changes in multiple sclerosis: a link between depression and cognitive impairment?
Authors: Bonavita S. , Sacco R. , Esposito S. , d'Ambrosio A. , Della Corte M. , Corbo D. , Docimo R. , Gallo A. , Lavorgna L. , Cirillo M. , Bisecco A. , Esposito F. , Tedeschi G. 
Published: September 2016

Background and purposeIn multiple sclerosis (MS), depression is a common disorder whose pathophysiology is still debated. To gain insights into the pathophysiology of depression in MS, resting‐state (RS) functional connectivity (FC) changes of the default mode network (DMN), salience network (SN) and executive control network (ECN) were assessed in a group of depressed MS (D‐MS) patients and in appropriately matched control groups.MethodsSixteen D‐MS patients, 17 non‐depressed MS (ND‐MS) patients, 17 non‐depressed healthy controls and 15 depressed subjects (D‐S), age, sex and education matched, cognitively preserved and non‐fatigued, were enrolled. All participants underwent a neuropsychological evaluation and RS functional magnetic resonance imaging study.ResultsComparing D‐MS patients with D‐S, within the DMN, a significant RS‐FC suppression was found in the posterior cingulate cortex (PCC); comparing D‐MS with ND‐MS, FC was significantly increased in the anterior cingulate cortex and significantly reduced in the PCC. Within the SN increased FC in the right supramarginal gyrus and right middle frontal gyrus was found in D‐MS patients compared to D‐S and to ND‐MS; within the ECN increased FC in the right inferior parietal cortex was found in D‐MS patients compared to ND‐MS patients.ConclusionsIn cognitively preserved D‐MS patients, FC derangement occurs in the SN, ECN and DMN. In the latter, changes occurring both in the anterior cingulate cortex and PCC suggest that depression in MS may be linked to MS itself and, in particular, to a peculiar pattern of network abnormalities favored by MS pathology through disconnection mechanisms. Reduced FC in the PCC, similar to MS patients with cognitive impairment, suggests a functional link between depression and cognitive impairment in MS.
The influence of angiotensin converting enzyme mutations on the kinetics and dynamics of N‐domain selective inhibition
Authors: Lubbe Lizelle , Sewell Brian T. , Sturrock Edward D. 
Published: September 2016

Angiotensin‐1‐converting enzyme (ACE) is a zinc metalloprotease that plays a major role in blood pressure regulation via the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system. ACE consists of two domains with differences in inhibitor binding affinities despite their 90% active site identity. While the C‐domain primarily controls blood pressure, the N‐domain is selective for cleavage of the antifibrotic N‐acetyl‐Ser–Asp–Lys–Pro. Inhibitors, such as 33RE, that selectively bind to the N‐domain thus show potential for treating fibrosis without affecting blood pressure. The aim of this study was to elucidate the molecular mechanism of this selectivity. ACE inhibition by 33RE was characterized using a continuous kinetic assay with fluorogenic substrate. The N‐domain displayed nanomolar (Ki = 11.21 ± 0.74 nm) and the C‐domain micromolar (Ki = 11 278 ± 410 nm) inhibition, thus 1000‐fold selectivity. Residues predicted to contribute to selectivity based on the N‐domain‐33RE co‐crystal structure were subsequently mutated to their C‐domain counterparts. S2 subsite mutation with resulting loss of a hydrogen bond drastically decreased the affinity (Ki = 2 794 ± 156 nm), yet did not entirely account for selectivity. Additional substitution of all unique S2′ residues, however, completely abolished selectivity (Ki = 10 009 ± 157 nm). Interestingly, these residues do not directly bind 33RE. All mutants were therefore subjected to molecular dynamics simulations in the presence and absence of 33RE. Trajectory analyses highlighted the importance of these S2′ residues in formation of a favourable interface between the ACE subdomains and thus a closed, ligand‐bound complex. This study provides a molecular basis for the intersubsite synergism governing 33RE's 1000‐fold N‐selectivity and aids the future design of novel inhibitors for fibrosis treatment.EnzymesAngiotensin converting enzyme (ACE, EC 3.4.15.1).
Multi‐trophic impacts of an invasive aquatic plant
Authors: Kuehne Lauren M. , Olden Julian D. , Rubenson Erika S. 
Published: September 2016

Summary

Natural resource agencies are increasingly required to prioritise management of multiple non‐native aquatic plants (macrophytes) in freshwater ecosystems. Characterising the consequences of invasions for ecological processes and corresponding ecosystem services is fundamental to this decision‐making process, but requires an understanding of impacts across physical, chemical, and biological responses.

Accordingly, we evaluated the multi‐trophic impacts of the invasive macrophyte Myriophyllum aquaticum (Haloragaceae; parrotfeather) along the mainstem Chehalis River, Washington, U.S.A. We examined invertebrate, plant and fish community responses to varying degrees of parrotfeather abundance and simultaneously characterised variation in physical structure and dissolved oxygen (DO) across the dominant native and non‐native plant species.

DO concentrations were significantly reduced and approached hypoxic levels in areas dominated by parrotfeather compared with native vegetation. Increased structural complexity, volume and biomass of parrotfeather was associated with increased diversity of epiphytic invertebrates. However, these more diverse invertebrate assemblages were dominated by amphipods, whereas native macrophytes were characterised by cladocerans, chironomids and gastropods. Non‐native fishes (primarily centrarchid species) were more strongly associated with sites where parrotfeather was present and diversity of non‐native fishes was positively correlated along a gradient of parrotfeather abundance. Native fish associated with parrotfeather areas were those that tend to be tolerant of degraded or lower quality habitats.

We saw little evidence of exclusion of other macrophytes; native and non‐native plant diversity and abundance were positively correlated with the parrotfeather gradient. This may reflect that analysis was done at a site level, and competitive dominance might be apparent by changes in species richness at smaller (plot) scales or over longer periods. Alternatively, parrotfeather may demonstrate minimal effects on native plant composition.

Given the effects observed across multiple habitat characteristics and biota, parrotfeather appears to be a highly impactful invader where it establishes. Many of the changes we observed appear to derive from the emergent leaves and dense mat formation of parrotfeather compared with a submersed structure more typical of the native community. Our results suggest that managers should specifically consider contrasting characteristics between non‐native and native physical structure when assessing and prioritising threats of invasive macrophytes.
Ciliate community structure and interactions within the planktonic food web in two alpine lakes of contrasting transparency
Authors: Kammerlander Barbara , Koinig Karin A. , Rott Eugen , Sommaruga Ruben , Tartarotti Barbara , Trattner Florian , Sonntag Bettina 
Published: September 2016

Summary

Climate warming is accelerating the retreat of glaciers and recently, many ‘new’ glacial turbid lakes have been created. In the course of time, the loss of the hydrological connectivity to a glacier causes, however, changes in their water turbidity and turns these ecosystems into clear ones.

To understand potential differences in the food‐web structure between glacier‐fed turbid and clear alpine lakes, we sampled ciliates, phyto‐, bacterio‐ and zooplankton in one clear and one glacial turbid alpine lake, and measured key physicochemical parameters. In particular, we focused on the ciliate community and the potential drivers for their abundance distribution.

In both lakes, the zooplankton community was similar and dominated by the copepod Cyclops abyssorum tatricus and rotifers including Polyarthra dolichoptera, Keratella hiemalis, Keratella cochlearis and Notholca squamula. The phytoplankton community structure differed and it was dominated by the planktonic diatom Fragilaria tenera and the cryptophyte alga Plagioselmis nannoplanctica in the glacial turbid lake, while chrysophytes and dinoflagellates were predominant in the clear one.

Ciliate abundance and richness were higher in the glacial turbid lake (∼4000–27 800 Ind L−1, up to 29 species) than in the clear lake (∼570–7150 Ind L−1, up to eight species). The dominant species were Balanion planctonicum, Askenasia cf. chlorelligera, Urotricha cf. furcata and Mesodinium cf. acarus. The same species dominated in both lakes, except for Mesodinium cf. acarus and some particle‐associated ciliates, which occurred exclusively in the glacial turbid lake. The relative underwater solar irradiance (i.e. percentage of PAR and UVR at depth) significantly explained their abundance distribution pattern, especially in the clear water lake. In the glacial turbid lake, the abundance of the dominating ciliate taxa was mainly explained by the presence of predatory zooplankton.

Our results revealed an unexpected high abundance and richness of protists (algae, ciliates) in the glacial turbid lake. This type of lake likely offers more suitable environmental conditions and resource niches for protists than the clear and highly UV transparent lake.
Atmospheric CO2 enrichment and drought stress modify root exudation of barley
Authors: Calvo Olga C. , Franzaring Jürgen , Schmid Iris , Müller Matthias , Brohon Nolwenn , Fangmeier Andreas 
Published: September 2016

AbstractRising CO2 concentrations associated with drought stress is likely to influence not only aboveground growth, but also belowground plant processes. Little is known about root exudation being influenced by elements of climate change. Therefore, this study wanted to clarify whether barley root exudation responds to drought and CO2 enrichment and whether this reaction differs between an old and a recently released malting barley cultivar. Barley plants were grown in pots filled with sand in controlled climate chambers at ambient (380 ppm) or elevated (550 ppm) atmospheric [CO2] and a normal or reduced water supply. Root exudation patterns were examined at the stem elongation growth stage and when the inflorescences emerged. At both dates, root exudates were analyzed for different compounds such as total free amino acids, proline, potassium, and some phytohormones. Elevated [CO2] decreased the concentrations in root exudates of some compounds such as total free amino acids, proline, and abscisic acid. Moreover, reduced water supply increased proline, potassium, electric conductivity, and hormone concentrations. In general, the modern cultivar showed higher concentrations of proline and abscisic acid than the old one, but the cultivars responded differentially under elevated CO2. Plant developmental stage had also an impact on the root exudation patterns of barley. Generally, we observed significant effects of CO2 enrichment, watering levels, and, to a lesser extent, cultivar on root exudation. However, we did not find any mitigation of the adverse effects of drought by elevated CO2. Understanding the multitude of relationships within the rhizosphere is an important aspect that has to be taken into consideration in the context of crop performance and carbon balance under conditions of climate change.
Disturbances catalyze the adaptation of forest ecosystems to changing climate conditions
Authors: Thom Dominik , Rammer Werner , Seidl Rupert 
Published: September 2016

AbstractThe rates of anthropogenic climate change substantially exceed those at which forest ecosystems – dominated by immobile, long‐lived organisms – are able to adapt. The resulting maladaptation of forests has potentially detrimental effects on ecosystem functioning. Furthermore, as many forest‐dwelling species are highly dependent on the prevailing tree species, a delayed response of the latter to a changing climate can contribute to an extinction debt and mask climate‐induced biodiversity loss. However, climate change will likely also intensify forest disturbances. Here, we tested the hypothesis that disturbances foster the reorganization of ecosystems and catalyze the adaptation of forest composition to climate change. Our specific objectives were (i) to quantify the rate of autonomous forest adaptation to climate change, (ii) examine the role of disturbance in the adaptation process, and (iii) investigate spatial differences in climate‐induced species turnover in an unmanaged mountain forest landscape (Kalkalpen National Park, Austria). Simulations with a process‐based forest landscape model were performed for 36 unique combinations of climate and disturbance scenarios over 1000 years. We found that climate change strongly favored European beech and oak species (currently prevailing in mid‐ to low‐elevation areas), with novel species associations emerging on the landscape. Yet, it took between 357 and 706 years before the landscape attained a dynamic equilibrium with the climate system. Disturbances generally catalyzed adaptation and decreased the time needed to attain equilibrium by up to 211 years. However, while increasing disturbance frequency and severity accelerated adaptation, increasing disturbance size had the opposite effect. Spatial analyses suggest that particularly the lowest and highest elevation areas will be hotspots of future species change. We conclude that the growing maladaptation of forests to climate and the long lead times of autonomous adaptation need to be considered more explicitly in the ongoing efforts to safeguard biodiversity and ecosystem services provisioning.