bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Differences in body sizes and physiological conditions among castes in the ponerine antCryptopone sauteri(Hymenoptera: Formicidae)
Authors: Yamaguchi Yuki , Yazawa Hiromi , Iwanishi Satoru , Kudô Kazuyuki 
Published: April 2016

AbstractIn several poneroid ant species, mated workers alone undertake reproduction. The reproductive systems of such species have been examined extensively. However, few studies have investigated species with alate queens, which reproduce after shedding their wings. We compared body sizes and the numbers of ovarioles between queens and workers in the antCryptopone sauteriwith alate queens. We also compared ovariole development between the castes to evaluate their reproductive systems. Approximately 60% of the nests collected were queenless. We often detected unmated queens in the nests throughout the year, but did not obtain strong evidence for their reproduction. Although significant differences were observed in the number of ovarioles and body characteristics between the queens and workers, the differences were not as prominent as those observed in Formicinae and Myrmicinae. We propose two alternative hypotheses, failure of nuptial flight or postponement of reproduction, to explain the presence of unmated queens in the nests.
Juvenile recruitment in loggerhead sea turtles linked to decadal changes in ocean circulation
Authors: Ascani François , Van Houtan Kyle S. , Di Lorenzo Emanuele , Polovina Jeffrey J. , Jones T. Todd 
Published: April 2016

AbstractGiven the threats of climate change, understanding the relationship of climate with long‐term population dynamics is critical for wildlife conservation. Previous studies have linked decadal climate oscillations to indices of juvenile recruitment in loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta), but without a clear understanding of mechanisms. Here, we explore the underlying processes that may explain these relationships. Using the eddy‐resolving Ocean General Circulation Model for the Earth Simulator, we generate hatch‐year trajectories for loggerhead turtles emanating from Japan over six decades (1950–2010). We find that the proximity of the high‐velocity Kuroshio Current to the primary nesting areas in southern Japan is remarkably stable and that hatchling dispersal to oceanic habitats itself does not vary on decadal timescales. However, we observe a shift in latitudes of trajectories, consistent with the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO). In a negative PDO phase, the Kuroshio Extension Current (KEC) is strong and acts as a physical barrier to the northward transport of neonates. As a result, hatch‐year trajectories remain mostly below 35°N in the warm, unproductive region south of the Transition Zone Chlorophyll Front (TZCF). During a positive PDO phase, however, the KEC weakens facilitating the neonates to swim north of the TZCF into cooler and more productive waters. As a result, annual cohorts from negative PDO years may face a lack of resources, whereas cohorts from positive PDO years may find sufficient resources during their pivotal first year. These model outputs indicate that the ocean circulation dynamics, combined with navigational swimming behavior, may be a key factor in the observed decadal variability of sea turtle populations.
Prognostic implications of baseline anaemia and changes in haemoglobin concentrations with amphotericin B therapy for cryptococcal meningitis
Authors: Tugume L , Morawski BM , Abassi M , Bahr NC , Kiggundu R , Nabeta HW , Hullsiek KH , Taseera K , Musubire AK , Schutz C , Muzoora C , Williams DA , Rolfes MA , Meintjes G , Rhein J , Meya DB , Boulware DR 
Published: April 2016

ObjectivesAnaemia represents a common toxicity with amphotericin B‐based induction therapy in HIV‐infected persons with cryptococcal meningitis. We sought to examine the impact of amphotericin‐related anaemia on survival.MethodsWe used data from Ugandan and South African trial participants to characterize the variation of haemoglobin concentrations from diagnosis to 12 weeks post‐diagnosis. Anaemia severity was classified based on the haemoglobin concentration at cryptococcal meningitis diagnosis, and nadir haemoglobin values during amphotericin induction. Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate 2‐ and 10‐week mortality risk. We also estimated 10‐week mortality risk among participants with nadir haemoglobin < 8.5 g/dL during amphotericin induction and who survived ≥ 2 weeks post‐enrolment.ResultsThe median haemoglobin concentration at meningitis diagnosis was 11.5 g/dL [interquartile range (IQR) 9.7–13 g/dL; n = 311] with a mean decline of 4.2 g/dL [95% confidence interval (CI) −4.6 to −3.8; P < 0.001; n = 148] from diagnosis to nadir value among participants with baseline haemoglobin ≥ 8.5 g/dL. The median haemoglobin concentration was 8.1 g/dL (IQR 6.5–9.5 g/dL) at 2 weeks, increasing to 9.4 g/dL (IQR 8.2–10.9 g/dL) by 4 weeks and continuing to increase to 12 weeks. Among participants with haemoglobin < 8.5 g/dL at diagnosis, mortality risk was elevated at 2 weeks [hazard ratio (HR) 2.7; 95% CI 1.5–4.9; P < 0.01] and 10 weeks (HR 1.8; 95% CI 1.1–2.2; P = 0.03), relative to those with haemoglobin ≥ 8.5 g/dL. New‐onset anaemia occurring with amphotericin therapy did not have a statistically significant association with 10‐week mortality (HR 2.0; 95% CI 0.5–9.1; P = 0.4).ConclusionsAmphotericin induced significant haemoglobin declines, which were mostly transient and did not impact 10‐week mortality. Individuals with moderate to life‐threatening anaemia at baseline had a higher mortality risk at 2 and 10 weeks post‐enrolment.
Different effects of arginine vasopressin on high‐mobility group box 1 expression in astrocytes isolated from stroke‐prone spontaneously hypertensive rats and congenic SHRpch1_18 rats
Authors: Yamagata Kazuo , Sone Natumi , Suguyama Sari , Nabika Toru 
Published: April 2016

SummaryStroke‐prone spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRSP/Izm) develop severe hypertension and astrocytic oedema following ischaemic stimulation. During ischaemic stress high‐mobility group box 1 (Hmgb1) expression in astrocytes is induced, and subsequently potentiates deterioration of the brain due to ischaemic injury, which manifests as both cerebral inflammation and astrocytic oedema. Arginine vasopressin (AVP) induces brain injury and increases astrocytic swelling. After stroke, Hmgb1 and peroxiredoxin (Prx) are released at different times and activate macrophages in the brain via Toll‐like receptors (Tlr2s). The purpose of this study was to examine whether AVP and/or hypoxia and reoxygenation (H/R) contribute to Hmgb1 regulation following ischaemic stroke. Thus, Hmgb1, Prx2 and Tlr2 expression levels in astrocytes isolated from Wistar Kyoto rats (WKY/Izm), spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR/Izm), SHRSP/Izm and congenic rat strain SHRpch1_18 treated with AVP and/or H/R were compared. Gene and protein expression levels were determined by reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) and real‐time quantitative PCR, and Western blot. mRNA expression of Hmgb1, Prx2 and Tlr2 induced by AVP was dose‐dependent, and Hmgb1 and Prx2 expression was higher in SHR/Izm, SHRSP/Izm and SHRch1_18 than in WKY/Izm. Tlr2 expression with AVP was reduced in SHR/Izm compared to WKY/Izm. In SHRpch1_18, Hmgb1 expression increased after AVP plus H/R. AVP‐modulated expression of Hmgb1 protein was reduced by the addition of the antioxidant N‐acetylcysteine (NAC). These results suggest that oxidative stress by AVP enhanced expression of Hmgb1, Prx2 and Tlr2 in astrocytes. We hypothesize that regulation of Hmgb1 by AVP during H/R might be related to induction of inflammation and stroke in SHRSP/Izm and SHRpch1_18 rats.
New reduction strategy in the biobjective knapsack problem
Authors: Daoud Malika , Chaabane Djamal 
Published: April 2016

AbstractIn this paper, the admissible region of a biobjective knapsack problem is our main interest. Although the reduction of feasible region has been studied by some authors, yet more investigation has to be done in order to deeply explore the domain before solving the problem. We propose, however, a new technique based on extreme supported efficient solutions combined with the dominance relationship between items' efficiency. An illustration of the algorithm by a didactic example is given and some experiments are presented, showing the efficiency of the procedure compared to the previous techniques found in the literature.
Subepidermal moisture (SEM) and bioimpedance: a literature review of a novel method for early detection of pressure‐induced tissue damage (pressure ulcers)
Authors: Moore Zena , Patton Declan , Rhodes Shannon L , O'Connor Tom 
Published: April 2016

AbstractCurrent detection of pressure ulcers relies on visual and tactile changes at the skin surface, but physiological changes below the skin precede surface changes and have a significant impact on tissue health. Inflammatory and apoptotic/necrotic changes in the epidermal and dermal layers of the skin, such as changes in interstitial fluid (also known as subepidermal moisture (SEM)), may precede surface changes by 3–10 days. Those same epidermal and subepidermal changes result in changes in the electrical properties (bioimpedance) of the tissue, thereby presenting an objective, non‐invasive method for assessing tissue damage. Clinical studies of bioimpedance for the detection of pressure ulcers have demonstrated that changes in bioimpedance correlate with increasing severity of pressure ulcer stages. Studies have also demonstrated that at anatomical locations with pressure ulcers, bioimpedance varies with distance from the centre of the pressure ulcers. The SEM Scanner, a handheld medical device, offers an objective and reliable method for the assessment of local bioimpedance, and therefore, assessment of tissue damage before signs become visible to the unaided eye. This literature review summarises pressure ulcer pathophysiology, principles of bioimpedance and clinical research using bioimpedance technology to assess pressure ulcers.
The Effect of Accounting Conservatism on Corporate Investment during the Global Financial Crisis
Authors: Balakrishnan Karthik , Watts Ross , Zuo Luo 
Published: April 2016

AbstractThis paper examines the effect of accounting conservatism on firm‐level investment during the 2007–2008 global financial crisis. Using a differences‐in‐differences design, we find that firms with less conservative financial reporting experienced a sharper decline in investment activity following the onset of the crisis compared to firms with more conservative financial reporting. This relationship was stronger for firms that were financially constrained, faced greater external financing needs, or had higher information asymmetry. We also find that more conservative firms experienced lower declines in both debt‐raising activity and stock performance. The evidence suggests that accounting conservatism reduces underinvestment in the presence of information frictions.
Deciphering range dynamics: effects of niche stability areas and post‐glacial colonization on alpine species distribution
Authors: Marta Silvio , Lacasella Federica , Gratton Paolo , Cesaroni Donatella , Sbordoni Valerio 
Published: April 2016

AbstractAimNiche stability areas (NSAs) are portions of the species range where climate conditions remain suitable through time. They represent the core of species ranges. Their distribution and extent, coupled with dispersal and colonization, shape the realized range of species. In this study, we quantified the roles of survival within NSAs and post‐glacial dispersal in determining the current distribution of two groups of alpine butterflies (two taxa in the Erebia tyndarus species complex; three taxa in the Parnassius apollo–P. phoebus species complex).LocationHolarctic.MethodsNSAs were identified for each taxon by combining current and past potential distributions models, estimated using different modelling techniques and general circulation models. We then (1) assessed the distributional bias towards NSAs by comparing actual occurrence records with randomized occupancies of the current potential range and (2) quantified post‐glacial dispersal by examining the distribution of distances from each occurrence record to the nearest NSA.ResultsIn almost all taxa, realized distributions are biased towards NSAs. However, while Erebia's present range is strongly dominated by NSAs, some populations of Parnassius are found very far from NSAs, suggesting more effective colonization of the available geographical space.Main conclusionsOur study highlights the relative roles of survival within NSAs and post‐glacial dispersal in shaping the ranges of different alpine butterflies during the Holocene. Results suggest that Erebia was unable to disperse far from NSAs, thus experiencing increasing range fragmentation. Parnassius populations, on the other hand, coupled local survival with northward dispersal. As NSAs allowed the long‐term survival of the species, acting as sources for recolonization, and tend to preserve most of each species’ genetic diversity, identifying NSAs and understanding their importance in determining the current distribution of species represents a pivotal task for the conservation of biological diversity.
Seasonal occurrence of spotted wing drosophila in various small fruits and berries in Pennsylvania and Maryland
Authors: Joshi N. K. , Butler B. , Demchak K. , Biddinger D. 
Published: April 2016

AbstractSpotted wing drosophila (SWD) (Drosophila suzukii), a major invasive pest of small fruit crops, was first found in Pennsylvania and Maryland during the 2011 crop season, and since then, it has been established throughout the fruit growing regions of both states. A season‐long field study was conducted to find out the seasonal occurrence of SWD in several fruit crops (e.g. blueberry, tart and sweet cherry, floricane‐fruiting summer red raspberry, blackberry, primocane‐fruiting fall raspberries and table grapes) in Pennsylvania and Maryland in 2014. This is the first study determining seasonal occurrence of SWD using a standard commercial lure (Pherocon® SWD Dual‐Lure™)‐baited traps in this region. In both states, SWD adults were not captured prior to the month of July, and populations of SWD were found to build up in fruit crops only from mid‐July onwards. This indicates early season fruit crops or varieties are not at risk from SWD fruit injury in these two states. Such early fruit crops, for instance strawberry, sweet and tart cherry, are generally harvested before SWD populations build up in this region. In this context, implications of SWD population in various small fruit crops grown in this region and the utility of SWD Dual‐Lure ™ in season‐long monitoring of SWD population are discussed.
Encapsulation of Zataria multiflora Boiss. Essential Oil in Liposome: Antibacterial Activity Against E. Coli O157:H7 in Broth Media and Minced Beef
Authors: Khosravi‐Darani Kianoush , Khoosfi Mahin Ebrahimi , Hosseini Hedayat 
Published: April 2016

AbstractConcerns for occurrence of food‐borne disease and harmful impacts of chemical preservatives encourage the use of natural preservatives such as essential oils (EOs). However, EOs are unstable in the presence of oxygen, light and temperature. Attempts have been made to overcome this unstability by entrapment methods. The purpose of this study was to produce liposomal Zataria multiflora Boiss essential oil (ZtEO) and compare antibacterial activity of free and liposomal ZtEO against E. coli O157:H7 in broth media and minced beef. Central composite design was applied to elevate the main and interactive impact of independent variables on encapsulation efficiency of ZtEO, as response. The highest encapsulation efficiency of 54.5% best condition was achieved by applying 2.5% wt/vol phosphatidyl choline, 0.81 proportion ratio of essential oil to phosphatidyl choline, temperature of 35C and time of 42 min. The minimum inhibitory concentration of liposomal essential oil was significantly less than the corresponding free oil in both media and minced beef against E. coli O157:H7. It can be concluded that increased antimicrobial activity, after encapsulation in liposomes, can promote the use of natural products as potent preservative and conservation agents in the food industry.Practical ApplicationsThe activity of many natural antimicrobials such as essential oils is abolished in many food products for a variety of reasons. Interference and cross‐reactions of the antimicrobial and various food constituents, such as protein and fat, are difficult to overcome and often require large amounts of antimicrobial in order to gain significant reductions in the pathogen load in a product. Liposome encapsulation technologies, such as that reported here, may allow for the maintenance of antimicrobial activity by protecting the antimicrobial against cross‐reactions with food components.
Development of a shear‐force scanning near‐field cathodoluminescence microscope for characterization of nanostructures’ optical properties
Authors: BERCU N.B. , TROYON M. , MOLINARI M. 
Published: April 2016

SummaryAn original scanning near‐field cathodoluminescence microscope for nanostructure characterization has been developed and successfully tested. By using a bimorph piezoelectric stack both as actuator and detector, the developed setup constitutes a real improvement compared to previously reported SEM‐based solutions. The technique combines a scanning probe and a scanning electron microscope in order to simultaneously offer near‐field cathodoluminescence and topographic images of the sample. Share‐force topography and cathodoluminescence measurements on GaN, SiC and ZnO nanostructures using the developed setup are presented showing a nanometric resolution in both topography and cathodoluminescence images with increased sensitivity compared to classical luminescence techniques.
Functional role of striatal A2A, D2, and mGlu5 receptor interactions in regulating striatopallidal GABA neuronal transmission
Authors: Beggiato Sarah , Tomasini Maria Cristina , Borelli Andrea Celeste , Borroto‐Escuela Dasiel Oscar , Fuxe Kjell , Antonelli Tiziana , Tanganelli Sergio , Ferraro Luca 
Published: April 2016

AbstractIn this study, the functional role of individual striatal receptors for adenosine (A2AR), dopamine (D2R), and the metabotropic glutamate receptor mGlu5R in regulating rat basal ganglia activity was characterized in vivo using dual‐probe microdialysis in freely moving rats. In particular, intrastriatal perfusion with the D2R agonist quinpirole (10 μM, 60 min) decreased ipsilateral pallidal GABA and glutamate levels, whereas intrastriatal CGS21680 (A2AR agonist; 1 μM, 60 min) was ineffective on either pallidal GABA and glutamate levels or the quinpirole‐induced effects. Intrastriatal perfusion with the mGlu5R agonist (RS)‐2‐chloro‐5‐hydroxyphenylglycine (600 μM, 60 min), by itself ineffective on pallidal GABA and glutamate levels, partially counteracted the effects of quinpirole. When combined with CGS21680 (1 μM, 60 min), (RS)‐2‐chloro‐5‐hydroxyphenylglycine (CHPG; 600 μM, 60 min) fully counteracted the quinpirole (10 μM, 60 min)‐induced reduction in ipsilateral pallidal GABA and glutamate levels. These effects were fully counteracted by local perfusion with the mGlu5R antagonist MPEP (300 μM) or the A2AR antagonist ZM 241385 (100 nM). These results suggest that A2ARs and mGlu5Rs interact synergistically in modulating the D2R‐mediated control of striatopallidal GABA neurons.
image
Using dual‐probe microdialysis, we characterized the functional role of striatal adenosine A2A receptor (A2AR), dopamine D2 receptor (D2R), and metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGluR5) interactions in regulating rat basal ganglia activity. The results suggest the possible usefulness of using an A2AR antagonist and mGluR5 antagonist combination in the treatment of Parkinson's disease to increase the inhibitory D2 signaling on striatopallidal GABA neurons.
Exploring the experiences of nurses and doctors involved in stroke care: a qualitative study
Authors: Theofanidis Dimitrios , Gibbon Bernard 
Published: April 2016

Aims and objectivesTo describe the current stroke care delivery arrangements in Greece and to explore nursing and medical staff knowledge, skills and attitudes, towards stroke care and management.BackgroundStroke care is diverse in the Greek public healthcare system and is delivered in a medical, neurology or a recently introduced, specialised unit. These settings are available alternatively under a central rota system.DesignDescriptive qualitative investigation using semi‐structured interviews.MethodsA purposeful sample of 21 hospital staff were interviewed and verbatim data was transcribed for content analysis. Staff were selected from the various settings involved in stroke care; six medical and 15 nursing staff (12 female) were interviewed.ResultsA number of themes emerged from the interview data and these include: (1) current facilities, (2) admission destination, (3) stroke nursing care, and (4) family involvement and continuing education needs.DiscussionInnovation and development can occur, even in the face of adversity, due to the commitment, passion and insight of healthcare professionals to enhance stroke care to aspire to international standards.ConclusionsGreek stroke nurses can achieve their professional potential within the appropriate working environment. The Stroke Bay working ethos and environment enhances professional autonomy and scope of practice.Relevance to clinical practiceBy exploring staff's knowledge and attitudes towards stroke care, nurses and healthcare professionals in general will gain a better understanding of their multiple clinical roles as stroke care providers by reflecting on their patients’ needs.
User acceptance of observation and response charts with a track and trigger system: a multisite staff survey
Authors: Elliott Doug , Allen Emily , McKinley Sharon , Perry Lin , Duffield Christine , Fry Margaret , Gallagher Robyn , Iedema Rick , Roche Michael 
Published: April 2016

Aims and objectivesTo examine user acceptance with a new format of charts for recording observations and as a prompt for responding to episodes of clinical deterioration in adult medical–surgical patients.BackgroundImproving recognition and response to clinical deterioration remains a challenge for acute healthcare institutions globally. Five chart templates were developed in Australia, combining human factors design principles with a track and trigger system for escalation of care. Two chart templates were previously tested in simulations, but none had been evaluated in clinical practice.DesignProspective multisite survey of user acceptance of the charts in practice.MethodsNew observation and response charts were trialled in parallel with existing charts for 24 hours across 36 adult acute medical–surgical wards, covering 108 shifts, in five Australian states. Surveys were completed by 477 staff respondents, with open‐ended comments and narrative from short informal feedback groups providing elaboration and context of user experiences.ResultsRespondents were broadly supportive of the chart format and content for monitoring patients, and as a prompt for escalating care. Some concerns were noted for chart size and style, use of ranges to graph vital signs and with specific human factors design features. Information and training issues were identified to improve usability and adherence to chart guidelines and to support improved detection and response for patients with clinical deterioration.ConclusionsThis initial evaluation demonstrated that the charts were perceived as appropriate for documenting observations and as a prompt to detect clinical deterioration. Further evaluation after some minor modifications to the chart is recommended.Relevance to clinical practiceExplicit training on the principles and rationale of human factors chart design, use of embedded change management strategies and addressing practical issues will improve authentic engagement, staff acceptance and adoption by all clinical users when implementing a similar observation and response chart into practice.