bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Characteristics of snags and forest structure in southern mistbelt forests of the Amatole region, South Africa
Authors: Wilson Amy‐Leigh , Bowker Meyrick , Shuttleworth Adam , Downs Colleen T. 
Published: February 2017

AbstractStanding dead trees (or snags) are an important component of forest ecosystems, especially for tree cavity‐nesting vertebrate species, but their prevalence in South African forests remains under studied. Consequently, we investigated forest structure, and the presence and abundance of snags in six southern mistbelt forests in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. These forests have had varying levels of timber extraction over the past 150 years or more. We found snags were relatively rare in all six forests (<4.3% of trees sampled). Mean diameter at breast height (dbh) of snags ranged from 52 to 82 cm across the forests, with smaller snags in Kologha Forest and larger snags in Tyume Forest. A bimodal distribution of snag successional stages was found, with frequencies peaking at early and late stages, and few in the intermediate stages. Tree species diversity in the forests was relatively low (twelve–nineteen species across forests; only 28 species in total). There was no significant difference in dbh of trees between forests, with most occurring in the 20–29‐cm dbh size class. Future studies are required to identify trees that most likely support suitable cavities for tree cavity‐nesting bird species, and to determine cavity‐nester assemblage requirements in southern African forests.
Clinical and mutational spectrum of Japanese patients with Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth disease caused by GDAP1 variants
Authors: Yoshimura A. , Yuan J.‐H. , Hashiguchi A. , Hiramatsu Y. , Ando M. , Higuchi Y. , Nakamura T. , Okamoto Y. , Matsumura K. , Hamano T. , Sawaura N. , Shimatani Y. , Kumada S. , Okumura Y. , Miyahara J. , Yamaguchi Y. , Kitamura S. , Haginoya K. , Mitsui J. , Ishiura H. , Tsuji S. , Takashima H. 
Published: February 2017

BackgroundMutations in GDAP1 are responsible for heterogeneous clinical and electrophysiological phenotypes of Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth disease (CMT), with autosomal dominant or recessive inheritance pattern. The aim of this study is to identify the clinical and mutational spectrum of CMT patients with GDAP1 variants in Japan.Materials and MethodsFrom April 2007 to October 2014, using three state‐of‐art technologies, we conducted gene panel sequencing in a cohort of 1,030 patients with inherited peripheral neuropathies (IPNs), and 398 mutation‐negative cases were further analyzed with whole‐exome sequencing.ResultsWe identified GDAP1 variants from 10 patients clinically diagnosed with CMT. The most frequent recessive variant in our cohort (5/10), c.740C>T (p.A247V), was verified to be associated with a founder event. We also detected three novel likely pathogenic variants: c.928C>T (p.R310W) and c.546delA (p.E183Kfs*23) in Case 2 and c.376G>A (p.E126K) in Case 8. Nerve conduction study or sural nerve biopsy of all 10 patients indicated axonal type peripheral neuropathy.ConclusionWe identified GDAP1 variants in approximately 1% of our cohort with IPNs, and established a founder mutation in half of these patients. Our study originally described the mutational spectrum and clinical features of GDAP1‐related CMT patients in Japan.
State‐led industrial development, structural transformation and elite‐led plunder: Angola (2002–2013) as a developmental state
Authors: Salah Ovadia Jesse 
Published: February 2017

AbstractFrom 2002 to 2013, Angola engaged in large‐scale state‐led reconstruction and development alongside an elite‐led appropriation and seizure of national assets. Until the oil price shock, Angola had been succeeding in promoting rapid economic growth, and possibly even significant social development, alongside a massive grab of wealth and power by local elites. Today, though an economic crisis has taken hold, frequent predictions of the country's imminent collapse have yet to be fulfilled. This article reviews the state's development planning and expenditure with a focus on public investment and industrial development to determine to what extent Angola during this period might be considered a developmental or petro‐developmental state. It is argued that, while more significant than generally thought, petro‐developmental outcomes were and are limited by the autocratic and neopatrimonial tendencies of the Angolan elite. Nevertheless, limited success with structural transformation may have lasting effects. Following its long civil war, the conditions existed for Angola to follow a new path of state‐led development. Though it may now be more difficult, structural transformation and economic diversification remain the only path to economic and social development.
How many fish use mangroves? The 75% rule an ill‐defined and poorly validated concept
Authors: Sheaves Marcus 
Published: February 2017

AbstractAlthough mangroves are known to play a critical part in the lives and life histories of many fish species, these values have rarely been definitively quantified. Despite this, claims such as “an estimated 75% of commercially caught fish depend directly on mangroves” are common across a range of government and non‐government documents from around the world, to the extent that the idea that 75% or more of fish depend on mangroves has become a truism widely used to support the value of mangroves. I investigated the basis for these claims that I summarize as the “75% rule.” The “75% rule” is imprecisely defined, and invariably cannot be traced back to definitive scientific data. Moreover, the claim is illogical because we simply do not have adequate knowledge of how many fish occupy different habitats or even how many species of fish there actually are. Moreover, even when the simplest proposition, of how many species use mangroves, is tested using global data bases, the best estimates fall far short of 75%. Clearly, the “75% rule” is wildly inaccurate, unsubstantiated and, at least give our current knowledge and methods, impossible to substantiate. Mangroves are critical to many species but using an indefensible pseudoscientific paradigm such as this to support conservation efforts, management actions and legal decisions, greatly weakens any arguments that build upon it, putting at risk outcomes that rely on the integrity of the claim.
A comparative and evolutionary approach to oxidative stress in fish: A review
Authors: Birnie‐Gauvin Kim , Costantini David , Cooke Steven J , Willmore William G 
Published: February 2017

AbstractOxidative stress results from an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species and the antioxidants defences, in favour of the former. In recent years, the association between oxidative processes, environmental change and life histories has received much attention. However, most studies have focused on avian and mammalian taxonomic groups, with less attention given to fish, despite their ecological and socio‐economic relevance. Here we present a review of the extrinsic and intrinsic factors that influence oxidative processes in fish, using a comparative and evolutionary approach. We demonstrate that oxidative stress plays a key role in shaping fish's responses to environmental change as well as life history strategies. We focus on representative examples to compare and contrast how levels of oxidative stress respond to changes in temperature, salinity and oxygen availability. Furthermore, we describe how emerging threats (i.e. pollution) affect oxidative stress parameters in fish. Oxidative stress indicators are increasingly being used as biomarkers to understand the mechanisms of various human‐induced stressors, but also to understand the physiological consequences of how animals are distributed in space and time and influenced by different life stages. Despite the expansion of the field of ecological oxidative stress, we are only beginning to understand the complex ways in which oxidative stress may interact with both extrinsic and intrinsic factors in fish. We conclude with a research agenda for oxidative research on fish and note that there is need for further research particularly in the area of life history strategies and ecological implications of oxidative status, as this type of research has the potential to help us understand patterns and dynamics relevant to fish conservation.
Non‐additive effects of simulated heat waves and predators on prey phenotype and transgenerational phenotypic plasticity
Authors: Sentis Arnaud , Hemptinne Jean‐Louis , Brodeur Jacques 
Published: February 2017

AbstractUnderstanding the effects of extreme climatic events on species and their interactions is of paramount importance for predicting and mitigating the impacts of climate change on communities and ecosystems. However, the joint effects of extreme climatic events and species interactions on the behaviour and phenotype of organisms remain poorly understood, leaving a substantial gap in our knowledge on the impacts of climatic change on ecological communities. Using an aphid–ladybeetle system, we experimentally investigated the effects of predators and heat shocks on prey body size, microhabitat use, and transgenerational phenotypic plasticity (i.e., the asexual production of winged offspring by unwinged mothers). We found that (i) aphids were smaller in the presence of predators but larger when exposed to frequent heat shocks; (ii) frequent heat shocks shifted aphid distribution towards the plant's apex, but the presence of predators had the opposite effect and dampened the heat‐shock effects; and (iii) aphids responded to predators by producing winged offspring, but heat shocks strongly inhibited this transgenerational response to predation. Overall, our experimental results show that heat shocks inhibit phenotypic and behavioural responses to predation (and vice versa) and that such changes may alter trophic interactions, and have important consequences on the dynamics and stability of ecological communities. We conclude that the effects of extreme climatic events on the phenotype and behaviour of interacting species should be considered to understand the effects of climate change on species interactions and communities.
The histone‐like protein HU has a role in gene expression during the acid adaptation response in Helicobacter pylori
Authors: Álvarez Alhejandra , Toledo Héctor 
Published: February 2017

AbstractBackgroundGastritis, ulcers, and gastric malignancy have been linked to human gastric epithelial colonization by Helicobacter pylori. Characterization of the mechanisms by which H. pylori adapts to the human stomach environment is of crucial importance to understand H. pylori pathogenesis.Material and MethodsIn an effort to extend our knowledge of these mechanisms, we used proteomic analysis and qRT‐PCR to characterize the role of the histone‐like protein HU in the response of H. pylori to low pH.ResultsProteomic analysis revealed that genes involved in chemotaxis, oxidative stress, or metabolism are under control of the HU protein. Also, expression of the virulence factors Ggt and NapA is affected by the null mutation of hup gene both at neutral and acid pH, as evidenced by qRT‐PCR analysis.ConclusionsThose results showed that H. pylori gene expression is altered by shift to low pH, thus confirming that acid exposure leads to profound changes in genomic expression, and suggest that the HU protein is a regulator that may help the bacterium adapt to the acid stress. In accordance with previous reports, we found that the HU protein participates in gene expression regulation when the microorganism is exposed to acid stress. Such transcriptional regulation underlies protein accumulation in the H. pylori cell.
Delivering information skills training at a health professionals continuing professional development conference: an evaluation
Authors: Lawton Aoife , Manning Padraig , Lawler Fiona 
Published: February 2017

AbstractIn this feature, guest writer Aoife Lawton discusses the outcomes of an information skills workshop delivered at a continuing professional development conference for health and social care professionals in Ireland. The primary aim of the study was to evaluate perceptions of the effectiveness of the workshop. The study provides details of how, through collaborative partnership, the workshop was developed and delivered. Application of an adapted version of the Kirkpatrick model of evaluation is presented alongside details of what impact the event had on the attendees both immediately after the workshop and 3 months post‐workshop. The authors also reflect on the benefits delivery of the workshops had for professional health library practice and service improvement.H. S.
The role of information therapy in reducing anxiety in patients undergoing in vitro fertilisation treatment
Authors: Ahmadizadeh Sara , Bozorgi Ashraf Sadat , Kashani Ladan 
Published: February 2017

AbstractThis article is the first in the feature to come from Iran. The lead author, Sara Ahmadizadeh, manages the Library at Arash Women's Hospital and was awarded an MA in Information Science and Knowledge and Librarianship from Tehran Azad University in July 2015. Her MA dissertation was innovative and ambitious in that it looked at the impact of information therapy on levels of anxiety amongst women undergoing IVF treatment. Her study demonstrated that quality information sessions, delivered in a structured way, can have a positive impact on patients’ awareness of their condition and can reduce anxiety.A. M.
Playing with class: Middle‐class intensive mothering and the consumption of children's toys in Vietnam
Authors: Le‐Phuong Nguyen Khanh , Harman Vicki , Cappellini Benedetta 
Published: February 2017

AbstractThis article explores the way in which Vietnamese mothers purchase, gift and share toys with their children. The study utilises a qualitative design comprising semi‐structured interviews with 10 Vietnamese middle‐class professional working mothers of children aged between 5 and 9. This research highlights the way in which toys defined as “good” by mothers need to fulfil a number of important practical and social functions: they act as an investment in the child's future, as a reward, and as a means for mothers to buy time for themselves. The findings illustrate how these functions are influenced by Confucian and Western discourses of intensive mothering, generating a localized style of middle‐class intensive mothering, characterized by what we have called the ideal of the triple excellent and intensive mother.
Neutrophil dysregulation during sepsis: an overview and update
Authors: Shen Xiao‐Fei , Cao Ke , Jiang Jin‐peng , Guan Wen‐Xian , Du Jun‐Feng 
Published: February 2017

AbstractSepsis remains a leading cause of death worldwide, despite advances in critical care, and understanding of the pathophysiology and treatment strategies. No specific therapy or drugs are available for sepsis. Neutrophils play a critical role in controlling infection under normal conditions, and it is suggested that their migration and antimicrobial activity are impaired during sepsis which contribute to the dysregulation of immune responses. Recent studies further demonstrated that interruption or reversal of the impaired migration and antimicrobial function of neutrophils improves the outcome of sepsis in animal models. In this review, we provide an overview of the associated mediators and signal pathways involved which govern the survival, migration and antimicrobial function of neutrophils in sepsis, and discuss the potential of neutrophils as a target to specifically diagnose and/or predict the outcome of sepsis.
Why Implement without a Tangible Threat? The Effect of a Soft Instrument on National Migrant Integration Policies
Authors: Van Wolleghem Pierre Georges 
Published: February 2017

AbstractA significant amount of scholarly attention has focused on explaining variation in implementation of EU outputs. Most studies have concentrated either on the factors determining compliance with Directives or on the processes leading Member States to applying soft law provisions. Little attention has however been paid to the determinants of the implementation of soft law. Hence the focus of this paper: why do Member States implement EU outputs if they have no legal obligation to do so? The present study delves into the implementation of a soft instrument, the European fund for the integration of foreigners, and explains Member States' response to it through a policy‐specific mechanism. I show that when there is little possibility of oversight from above, government preferences are not constrained by Commission but by public opinion and organized civil society. Empirical evidence is drawn from the application of time‐series‐cross‐section methods to an original dataset.
Italian guidelines on the systemic treatments of moderate‐to‐severe plaque psoriasis
Authors: Gisondi P. , Altomare G. , Ayala F. , Bardazzi F. , Bianchi L. , Chiricozzi A. , Costanzo A. , Conti A. , Dapavo P. , De Simone C. , Foti C. , Naldi L. , Offidani A. , Parodi A. , Piaserico S. , Prignano F. , Rongioletti F. , Stingeni L. , Talamonti M. , Girolomoni G. 
Published: February 2017

AbstractPsoriasis is a common disease, which has a considerable impact on the healthcare system. Therefore, appropriate use of therapeutic resources is very important. Management of psoriasis in daily clinical practice is highly variable because many issues are still debated and not definitely addressed by the evidence‐based medicine. Moreover, the different availability and reimbursability of drugs in each country justifies national guidelines. Expert consensus can provide helpful guidelines for optimizing patient care. A total of 20 dermatologists from different areas of Italy and with large experience in the treatment of psoriasis agreed to participate in the guidelines expert panel who aimed to reach consensus on the factors influencing psoriasis severity, the indications for systemic treatments, the parameters to be considered in the choice of treatment, and the factors to be considered in the choice of biological treatment. The recommendations for the use, screening and monitoring of systemic therapies were based on the 2015 S3 European Dermatology Forum/European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology psoriasis guidelines. Recommendations on the treatment of psoriasis in special patient populations were also agreed. The final document was discussed in a meeting moderated by a facilitator with participation of the entire group and adopting a nominal group technique to reach consensus. A statement was regarded as consented when agreement was achieved by at least 75% of the voting experts according to the Delphi procedure.
Re‐challenging FODMAPs: the low FODMAP diet phase two
Authors: Tuck Caroline , Barrett Jacqueline 
Published: February 2017

AbstractThe low fermentable, oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols (FODMAP) diet has good evidence for use in the treatment of patients with irritable bowel syndrome. Importantly, patients are encouraged not to remain on a strict low FODMAP diet long‐term, and many patients maintain symptom improvement with a relaxed, moderate FODMAP restriction. The re‐challenge phase is crucial to assist patients in identifying specific dietary triggers, reduce the level of dietary restriction required, and increase prebiotic intake. Limited evidence is available to guide best practice, but, in practice, beneficial outcomes can be seen through strategic food reintroductions. Here, we set out some practical recommendations based on clinical experience. Dietitians should tailor the challenge process to the individual patient and their needs. Food challenges should aim to improve dietary variety and nutritional adequacy while considering specific food preferences and usual dietary habits. Identifying FODMAP subgroups that are well tolerated is helpful, allowing the reintroduction of some moderate to high FODMAP foods back into the diet without symptom induction. FODMAP subtypes that are less well tolerated may also be reintroduced, but dosage and frequency of consumption need to be individualized.Additional challenges that face dietitians include consideration of patients with multiple dietary restrictions such as in vegetarians or patients with diabetes who are simultaneously following a low FODMAP diet. Ensuring nutritional adequacy is essential. The outcome of the re‐challenge process aims to find a balance between good symptom control and expansion of the diet.
How do FODMAPs work?
Authors: Spiller Robin 
Published: February 2017

AbstractMany patients report symptoms come on after eating, and experience with exclusion diets suggests that certainly poorly absorbed but rapidly fermentable carbohydrates may be responsible. While monomeric and short chain carbohydrate polymers exert osmotic forces and trap water in the small bowel with acceleration of transit, the longer polymer polymers such as inulin pass through the small bowel unaltered but are fermented in the colon where they may cause distension and symptoms. Recent developments in magnetic resonance imaging confirm the importance of fructose in stimulating small bowel water secretion and its negation by the presence of glucose. Fructans have no impact on the small intestine but cause colonic distension and symptoms including bloating.
Adapting the low FODMAP diet to special populations: infants and children
Authors: Iacovou Marina 
Published: February 2017

AbstractManagement of gut‐related symptoms in the pediatric population can be challenging. Many factors need to be taken into consideration including psychological, behavioral, social and family environments, and growth and developmental requirements. This review focuses on two issues: potential dietary therapies that are thought to relieve the symptoms of infantile colic, a condition that is believed to be gastrointestinal in nature; and the evidence and dietary considerations surrounding children with irritable bowel syndrome.
Relationship between swallowing functions and health‐related quality of life among community‐dwelling dependent older individuals
Authors: Morisaki Naoko 
Published: February 2017

AimThis study analyzed the association between swallowing function levels and health‐related quality of life (QOL) among community‐dwelling dependent older persons in Japan.MethodsA cross‐sectional survey of a purposive sample of community‐dwelling dependent older individuals in Japan was conducted. Two swallowing functions (tongue pressure and lip‐closure force), the risk of dysphagia, and health‐related QOL (SF‐8) were surveyed.ResultsThere were 86 (38.2%) men and 139 (61.8%) women, with a mean age of 81.6 ± 7.4 years. The activities of daily living‐20 evaluation yielded a total score of 46.39 ± 10.18. The elderly participants had decreased swallowing functions. The risk‐of‐dysphagia score demonstrated a significant negative correlation with respect to the SF‐8 subcategory scores. Moreover, the multiple regression analyses indicated that three variables exhibited significant negative differences: general health perceptions, mental health (SF‐8 subarea), and activities of daily living.ConclusionAn increasing risk of dysphagia can lead to a deterioration in the health‐related QOL among community‐dwelling dependent older individuals. This implies that homecare interventions that address the deterioration of swallowing and the risk of dysphagia could be in high demand in the future.