bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Strengthening confidence in climate change impact science
Authors: O'Connor Mary I. , Holding Johnna M. , Kappel Carrie V. , Duarte Carlos M. , Brander Keith , Brown Christopher J. , Bruno John F. , Buckley Lauren , Burrows Michael T. , Halpern Benjamin S. , Kiessling Wolfgang , Moore Pippa , Pandolfi John M. , Parmesan Camille , Poloczanska Elvira S. , Schoeman David S. , Sydeman William J. , Richardson Anthony J. 
Published: September 2014

AbstractAimTo assess confidence in conclusions about climate‐driven biological change through time, and identify approaches for strengthening confidence scientific conclusions about ecological impacts of climate change.LocationGlobal.MethodsWe outlined a framework for strengthening confidence in inferences drawn from biological climate impact studies through the systematic integration of prior expectations, long‐term data and quantitative statistical procedures. We then developed a numerical confidence index (Cindex) and used it to evaluate current practices in 208 studies of marine climate impacts comprising 1735 biological time series.ResultsConfidence scores for inferred climate impacts varied widely from 1 to 16 (very low to high confidence). Approximately 35% of analyses were not associated with clearly stated prior expectations and 65% of analyses did not test putative non‐climate drivers of biological change. Among the highest‐scoring studies, 91% tested prior expectations, 86% formulated expectations for alternative drivers but only 63% statistically tested them. Higher confidence scores observed in studies that did not detect a change or tracked multiple species suggest publication bias favouring impact studies that are consistent with climate change. The number of time series showing climate impacts was a poor predictor of average confidence scores for a given group, reinforcing that vote‐counting methodology is not appropriate for determining overall confidence in inferences.Main conclusionsClimate impacts research is expected to attribute biological change to climate change with measurable confidence. Studies with long‐term, high‐resolution data, appropriate statistics and tests of alternative drivers earn higher Cindex scores, suggesting these should be given greater weight in impact assessments. Together with our proposed framework, the results of our Cindex analysis indicate how the science of detecting and attributing biological impacts to climate change can be strengthened through the use of evidence‐based prior expectations and thorough statistical analyses, even when data are limited, maximizing the impact of the diverse and growing climate change ecology literature.
The relationship between architectural characteristics and regrowth in Trifolium pratense (red clover)
Authors: Van Minnebruggen A. , Roldán‐Ruiz I. , Van Bockstaele E. , Haesaert G. , Cnops G. 
Published: September 2014

AbstractThe relevance of particular architectural characteristics for a good regrowth has not been elucidated yet in red clover. Here, we present the shoot architecture and regrowth of six red clover genotypes analysed under controlled and field conditions, with and without competition from perennial ryegrass. Among the genotypes investigated, Lemmon and Crossway displayed the highest number of nodes and branches, the highest increase in the number of nodes in the basal 7 cm and the highest outgrowth capacity of the nodes in this zone resulting in the highest dry‐matter yields. Our results indicate that selecting genotypes with a high number of first‐order branches, short internodes and the ability to resume growth from the nodes that remain in the uncut zone will allow the development of cultivars with good regrowth.
Morpho‐physiological variation of Poa alpina L. genetic resources from the Rhaetian Alps, Italy, grown in two altitude‐contrasting sites
Authors: Pecetti L. , Romani M. , Spoleto P. , Tosca A. , Della Marianna G. , Gusmeroli F. 
Published: September 2014

AbstractAlpine bluegrass (Poa alpina L.) is common in mountain areas, where it represents a valuable forage resource and is widely used for ecological restoration of disturbed landscapes. This study assessed the variation of germplasm from the Rhaetian Alps, Italy. Both seed production and morphology were examined for potential use in restoration projects and for conservation and selection purposes of local genetic resources. The effects of the ex situ growing site were also assessed in two altitude‐contrasting sites. Individual populations harboured great phenotypic diversity for all traits, including seed yield, while variation among valleys of origin was less manifest. Noticeable site‐specific population yield responses were observed, suggesting that the environment adopted for seed production may steer the choice of materials to be multiplied. The longer vegetative period in the lowland site, combined with environment‐tailored agronomic practices, contributed to better plant growth, seed yield and survival compared to the mountain site, suggesting that seed production of this Alpine species could be feasible in a lowland environment when adequate inputs were provided. One valley (Valchiavenna) displayed high average levels of seed yield and plant vigour across growing sites, indicating its possible value as a source of germplasm suitable for resowing at high altitude.
Mechanical and Dielectric Properties of SiCf/AlPO4 Composites with Multi‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Wan Feng , Luo Fa , Shi Yimin , Zhou Wancheng , Zhu Dongmei 
Published: September 2014

SiCf/AlPO4 composites were prepared by laminating method. The slurry comprising Al(H2PO4)3 solution, multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), and Al2O3 powder was used as matrix precursor. The complex permittivities of the composites were measured in the X‐band (8.2–12.4 GHz). The reflection loss was calculated using the transmission line theory. It was found that the addition of 2.5 wt% MWCNTs noticeably improved the absorption property of 3 mm thick composites with the assistance of 15 wt% Al2O3, which also exhibited an obvious toughened fracture behavior with 190 MPa fracture strength.
Elevated Platelet-Derived Growth Factor AB/BB is Associated with a Lower Risk of Recurrent Vascular Events in Stroke Patients
Authors: Narasimhalu Kaavya , Ma Lu , De Silva Deidre Anne , Wong Meng-Cheong , Chang Hui-Meng , Chen Christopher 
Published: September 2014

Background Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-AB and BB have been shown to possess angiogenic properties in vivo, and decreased levels have been linked to plaque instability in atherosclerosis. Little work has been done to determine if PDGF is associated with outcomes after stroke, in particular cognitive outcomes. Therefore, in this sudy, we investigated the association between PDGFand both vascular and cognitive outcomes in a cohort of patients with recent nondisabling ischemic stroke. Methods Three hundred nine patients recruited within six-months of a transient ischemic attack or nondisabling ischemic stroke [modified Rankin Scale (mRS) ⩽ 3] were followed for up to five-years. Cox proportional-hazard regression analyses were performed to investigate the association of PDGF levels with the risk of death, recurrent vascular events, dependency, and incident dementia, while logistic regression analyses were performed to investigate the association of PDGF levels with the risk of significant cognitive decline. Significant cognitive decline was defined as: (a) a decline of cognitive status from no cognitive impairment or mild cognitive impairment with no dementia to moderate cognitive impairment with no dementia or (b) conversion to dementia. Results Patients (mean age 60 years) were mostly male (64%) and of Chinese ethnicity (85%) and had posterior circulation or lacunar infarcts (73%). In univariate analysis, PDGF was significantly associated with a lower risk of recurrent vascular events [hazard ratio (HR) 0·61; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0·44–0·84]. In multivariate analysis adjusting for treatment, PDGF was independently associated with a lower risk of recurrent vascular events (HR 0·62; 95% CI 0·46–0·85). PDGF levels were not associated with the risk of the other outcomes of interest. Conclusions Higher levels of PDGF-AB/BB were independently associated with a lower risk of recurrent vascular events in a cohort of convalescent nondisabled stroke patients. Our findings suggest that PDGF-AB/BB may potentially serve as a prognostic marker for outcomes pos- stroke and, if this result is validated in larger samples, a potential therapeutic target.
A predictive analytics approach for demand forecasting in the process industry
Authors: Blackburn Robert , Lurz Kristina , Priese Benjamin , Göb Rainer , Darkow Inga‐Lena 
Published: September 2014

AbstractAnticipating demand changes is critical in the process industry with high capacity utilization. The developed solution for demand forecasting is based on a new predictive analytics approach and sophisticated information technology, which allows combining company data and economic information specifically matched to the market environment of product segments. The approach systematically selects the best information for a business outlook. Using the data from the global chemical company BASF, the first empirical results show that this approach significantly outperforms statistical methods based on historical demand data only.
Lactic acid bacterial symbionts in honeybees – an unknown key to honey's antimicrobial and therapeutic activities
Authors: Olofsson Tobias C , Butler Èile , Markowicz Pawel , Lindholm Christina , Larsson Lennart , Vásquez Alejandra 
Published: September 2014

AbstractCould honeybees' most valuable contribution to mankind besides pollination services be alternative tools against infections? Today, due to the emerging antibiotic‐resistant pathogens, we are facing a new era of searching for alternative tools against infections. Natural products such as honey have been applied against human's infections for millennia without sufficient scientific evidence. A unique lactic acid bacterial (LAB) microbiota was discovered by us, which is in symbiosis with honeybees and present in large amounts in fresh honey across the world. This work investigates if the LAB symbionts are the source to the unknown factors contributing to honey's properties. Hence, we tested the LAB against severe wound pathogens such as methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Pseudomonas aeruginosa and vancomycin‐resistant Enterococcus (VRE) among others. We demonstrate a strong antimicrobial activity from each symbiont and a synergistic effect, which counteracted all the tested pathogens. The mechanisms of action are partly shown by elucidating the production of active compounds such as proteins, fatty acids, anaesthetics, organic acids, volatiles and hydrogen peroxide. We show that the symbionts produce a myriad of active compounds that remain in variable amounts in mature honey. Further studies are now required to investigate if these symbionts have a potential in clinical applications as alternative tools against topical human and animal infections.
Neuropathic ulcers in leprosy treated with intralesional platelet‐rich plasma
Authors: Conde‐Montero Elena , Horcajada‐Reales Celia , Clavo Petunia , Delgado‐Sillero Irene , Suárez‐Fernández Ricardo 
Published: September 2014

AbstractNeuropathic ulcers in leprosy represent a therapeutic challenge for clinicians. Chronic ulcers affect patient health, emotional state and quality of life, causing considerable morbidity and mortality in addition to contributing to significant health care costs. The pathogenesis is mainly related to the abnormally increased pressure in areas such as the sole of the foot, secondary to lack of sensation and deformities induced by peripheral sensory‐motor neuropathy. Conventional treatment of these wounds can be slow due to their chronic inflammatory state and the senescence of local reparative cells. Platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) may restore the healing process, leading to a reparative phase. We present two patients with four neuropathic leprosy ulcers that have responded satisfactory to PRP treatment. PRP therapy has been growing as a viable treatment alternative for chronic ulcers. However, stronger scientific evidence is required to support its potential benefit for use in chronic wounds.
Probucol Prevents Atrial Remodeling by Inhibiting Oxidative Stress and TNF‐α/NF‐κB/TGF‐β Signal Transduction Pathway in Alloxan‐Induced Diabetic Rabbits
Authors: FU HUAYING , LI GUANGPING , LIU CHANGLE , LI JIAN , WANG XINGHUA , CHENG LIJUN , LIU TONG 
Published: September 2014

Probucol Prevents Atrial RemodelingIntroductionDiabetes mellitus (DM) is an independent risk factor for atrial fibrillation (AF). However, the underlying mechanisms for the increased propensity for AF in the setting of DM and the potential effects of probucol on atrial remodeling remain unclear.Methods and ResultsEighty Japanese rabbits were randomly assigned to normal/control group (Control, n = 20), alloxan‐induced diabetic group (DM, n = 20), probucol‐treated group (Control‐P, n = 20), and probucol‐treated diabetic group (DM‐P, n = 20). Rabbits in the DPR and CPR groups were orally administered probucol (1,000 mg/day) for 8 weeks. Serum and left atrial tissue malonaldehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), myeloperoxidase (MPO), and catalase (CAT) levels were assessed. Isolated Langendorff perfused rabbit hearts were prepared to evaluate atrial refractory effective period (AERP) and its dispersion (AERPD), interatrial conduction time (IACT), and vulnerability to AF. Atrial interstitial fibrosis was also evaluated. The mRNA expression levels of TNF‐α and TLR4 were analyzed. The protein expressions of NF‐κB, HSP70, TGF‐β, and ERK in left atrial tissue were analyzed by Western blot. Probucol administration decreased the inducibility of AF in diabetic rabbits and attenuated atrial interstitial fibrosis. The DM‐P rabbits exhibited significant alleviation of oxidative stress, evidenced by reduced serum and tissue MDA, compared with diabetic rabbits. Moreover, NF‐κB, TGF‐β, and HSP70 protein expression and TNF‐α mRNA expression were significantly downregulated by probucol treatment in alloxan‐induced diabetic rabbits.ConclusionsProbucol prevents atrial remodeling and suppresses AF development in alloxan‐induced diabetic rabbits. Its inhibitory effects on oxidative stress, NF‐κB, TGF‐β, and TNF‐α overexpression may contribute to its antiremodeling effects.
Levels of HIV‐1 in subgingival biofilm of HIV‐infected patients
Authors: Pavan Priscila , Pereira Viviane Tiago , Souza Rodrigo Carvalho , Souza Celso Oliveira , Torres Sandra Regina , Colombo Ana Paula Vieira , da Costa Luciana Jesus , Sansone Carmelo , de Uzeda Milton , Gonçalves Lucio Souza 
Published: September 2014

AbstractAimThe aims of the current study were to compare the levels of HIV‐1 in the subgingival biofilm (SHVL) between detectable and undetectable plasmatic HIV‐1 viral load (PHVL) in HIV‐infected patients as well as to determine the association of SHVL with PHVL and clinical periodontal parameters.Material and MethodsForty‐one HIV‐infected individuals were divided into two groups: detectable (21) and undetectable (20) PHVL. Subgingival biofilm samples were obtained for detection and quantification of HIV‐1 by real‐time RT‐PCR. To estimate the effect of co‐variables on the outcome undetectable SHVL, the Generalized Estimation Equation (GEE) was employed.ResultsDetectable SHVL was observed only in the detectable PHVL group and the detection of the HIV‐1 was observed in 40% of these individuals. In the bivariate analysis between co‐variables from the individual level and the outcome SHVL, significant difference was observed only for the CD4+ T lymphocytes levels (p = 0.017). The multiple logistic model demonstrated that only CD4+ T lymphocytes levels had a significant effect on the outcome undetectable SHVL [OR 8.85 (CI 3.6–9.2), p = 0.002].ConclusionHIV‐1 can be detected and quantified in the subgingival biofilm of HIV‐infected individuals, but these findings are not associated with PHVL and periodontal clinical parameters.
Aetiological overlap between anxiety and attention deficit hyperactivity symptom dimensions in adolescence
Authors: Michelini Giorgia , Eley Thalia C. , Gregory Alice M. , McAdams Tom A. 
Published: September 2014

BackgroundAnxiety and attention‐deficit/hyperactivity (ADH) problems are common in adolescence, often co‐occur, and are characterised by high heterogeneity in their phenotypic expressions. Although it is known that anxiety and ADH problems correlate, the relationships between subtypes of anxiety and ADH problems have been scarcely investigated.MethodsUsing a large population sample of adolescent twins and siblings we explored the phenotypic and aetiological association between anxiety subtypes (panic/agoraphobia, separation anxiety, social anxiety, physical injury fears, obsessive‐compulsive symptoms and generalised anxiety) and the two ADH dimensions (attention problems and hyperactivity/impulsivity). Both phenotypes were assessed using self‐report questionnaires.ResultsThe association between ADH problems and anxiety could be entirely attributed to attention problems, not hyperactivity/impulsivity. Most of the correlations between anxiety subtypes and attention problems showed an approximately equal role of genetic and nonshared environmental factors.ConclusionsThe high heterogeneity within anxiety and ADH problems should be taken into account in order to better understand comorbidity between them.
Reactive Arthritis
Authors: Stavropoulos P.G. , Soura E. , Kanelleas A. , Katsambas A. , Antoniou C. 
Published: September 2014

AbstractReactive arthritis (ReA) is an immune‐mediated seronegative arthritis that belongs to the group of spondyloarthropathies and develops after a gastrointestinal or genitourinary system infection. The condition is considered to be characterized by a triad of symptoms (conjunctivitis, arthritis and urethritis) although a constellation of other manifestations may also be present. ReA is characterized by psoriasiform dermatological manifestations that may resemble those of pustular psoriasis and, similar to guttate psoriasis, is a post‐infectious entity. Also, the articular manifestations of the disorder are similar to those of psoriatic arthritis and both conditions show a correlation with HLA‐B27. These facts have led several authors to suggest that there is a connection between ReA and psoriasis, listing ReA among the disorders related to psoriasis. However, the pathogenetic mechanism behind the condition is complex and poorly understood. Bacterial antigenicity, the type of host response (i.e. Th1/Th2 imbalance) and various genetic factors (i.e. HLA‐B27 etc.) play an important role in the development of the disorder. It is unknown whether all the aforementioned factors are part of a mechanism that could be similar to, or share basic aspects with known psoriasis pathogenesis mechanisms.
Reverse influence of riparian buffer width on herbivorous and predatory Hemiptera
Authors: Gilbert S. , Norrdahl K. , Tuomisto H. , Söderman G. , Rinne V. , Huusela‐Veistola E. 
Published: September 2014

AbstractInsects are major contributors to farmland biodiversity, and their economic roles are also diverse. Many herbivorous species are crop pests, while predatory insects have the potential to act as biological controls against pests. Overall insect diversity has declined as a result of intensified agricultural practices. Riparian buffers may support insect populations in intensively cultivated areas, but their actual impact on the balance between harmful pests and beneficial predators is not known. It can be postulated that this impact may vary depending on the characteristics and location of the riparian buffer itself. We investigated the possibility that the biotic and abiotic attributes of agricultural riparian buffers adjoining crop fields and watercourses can explain the species composition of hemipteran assemblages. In particular, we were interested in the abundances of species belonging to the genus Nabis (generalist predators) and recognized and potential pests of cereal crops. Riparian buffer width and the presence or absence of woody plants were not associated with hemipteran species turnover among riparian buffers. In contrast, differences in the degree of dominance by grasses, in plant species turnover, and in which crop plant was cultivated in the adjacent field, explained a significant proportion of the variance in hemipteran species turnover. The abundance of predatory Nabis species increased with increasing riparian buffer width, whereas the abundance of recognized and potential crop pests decreased. The reverse patterns in the predatory and herbivorous Heteroptera suggest that increasing riparian buffer width might enhance biological control by Nabis predators.
Endodermal/ectodermal interfaces during pharyngeal segmentation in vertebrates
Authors: Shone Victoria , Graham Anthony 
Published: September 2014

AbstractA key event in the formation of the pharyngeal arches is the outpocketing of the endodermal pharyngeal pouches and the establishment of contact with the overlying ectoderm. However, relatively little is known about how the endoderm and ectoderm relate to each other at these points of contact and the extent to which this differs between the pouches. We have therefore detailed the interactions between the pharyngeal pouches and ectoderm in the chick embryo. Unlike the other pouches, the first pouch does not sustain direct contact with the ectoderm but separates after initial contact. Contrastingly, a perforation is formed between the second pouch and cleft that creates an external opening into the pharynx. Finally, the third and fourth pouch endoderm can be seen to bulge outwards through the ectoderm, although external openings to the pharyngeal lumen are not established. To understand whether these behaviours represent derived or ancestral features, we characterised the pharyngeal ectodermal–endodermal interfaces in the shark embryo. We found that the pouches of the posterior gill‐bearing arches in this species also displayed the outward bulging of the endoderm into the ectoderm, although openings were established. We further used genetic tools to detail unambiguously the relationship between the endoderm and ectoderm in zebrafish and mouse embryos and again found that the posterior pouches break through the ectoderm. Thus different pharyngeal pouches establish different topological relationships with the overlying ectoderm and the posterior pouches initiate the developmental programme for the formation of gills, be they amniotes or anamniotes.
Phytophthora Species Infecting Hardy Ornamentals in Nurseries and the Managed Environment in Scotland
Authors: Schlenzig Alexandra , Campbell Rachael , Chard Jane 
Published: September 2014

AbstractBetween 2002 and the end of 2009, more than 4000 samples from hardy ornamental plants, collected in surveys for Phytophthora ramorum, were examined to establish the occurrence and diversity of Phytophthora species in Scotland. The samples were gathered from more than 77 plant genera in nurseries, gardens and amenity landscapes. Fifteen different Phytophthora spp. were isolated and identified either by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or by sequencing of the ITS1, 5.8S subunit and ITS2 region of the ribosomal RNA gene. The most widespread Phytophthora spp. were P. ramorum and P. syringae, followed by P. cactorum, P. kernoviae, P. plurivora, P. cambivora, P. citrophthora, P. taxon ‘Pgchlamydo’, P. pseudosyringae and some single isolates of P. cinnamomi, P. cryptogea, P. gonapodyides, P. nicotianae and P. hibernalis. One isolate did not match any known species. In relation to the number of samples, Phytophthora was found more frequently in trade premises than in gardens or amenity landscapes and the species diversity was higher, highlighting the risks involved in plant trade.