bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
13 Comparative Landscape Analysis: Contrasting the Middle East and Maya Regions
Authors: Wilkinson T. J. 
Published: September 2014

ABSTRACTThe Maya Lowlands and the Middle East occupy two contrasting latitudinal zones of ancient settlement, the former comprising part of the semi‐tropical belt of low‐density urbanism whereas in the Middle East dense nucleated settlement has predominated. Building upon the foundation lain down by Robert McC. Adams and published in 1966, but primarily drawing upon new evidence from archaeological landscape surveys, this paper explores the commonalities and contrasts between these two landscapes. Emphasis is placed upon settlement and landscape dynamics, specifically those features that contribute to our understanding of settlement sustainability or fragility. In addition, the different responses of large and small sites to both internal and external stresses are examined with particular reference to models of collapse and resilience. This paper selectively draws upon evidence from case studies from each geographical zone. These include those previously presented from the Maya region together with case studies drawn from the large data base available from Durham University's Fragile Crescent Project. Key features of settlement landscape dynamics include: agricultural intensification, polity size, transport networks, and patterns of exchange. In addition, reference is made to settlement landscapes in the sub‐humid and semi‐arid Yemen highlands which occupy a latitudinal zone equivalent to the Yucatan Peninsula and which show some characteristics of low density urbanism.
Land‐use history and an invasive grass affect tallgrass prairie sedge community composition
Authors: McGranahan Devan Allen , Engle David M. , Mulloy John T. , Miller James R. , Debinski Diane M. 
Published: September 2014

AbstractQuestionsHow abundant and diverse are sedges in upland tallgrass prairie? Are sedge communities associated with historical land use, abundance of an invasive species or different fire and grazing management regimes? How do sedge communities compare between reconstructed and intact grassland?LocationGrand River Grasslands; working tallgrass prairie in north‐central Missouri and south‐central Iowa (US).MethodsFrom 2008 to 2010, we surveyed the sedge species richness and measured canopy cover (an estimate of abundance) on 13 tallgrass prairie tracts, and measured canopy cover of an invasive C3 grass, tall fescue (Schedonorus phoenix (Scop.) Holub). Flowering sedges were identified to species and associated with wetland indicator status (WIS) and coefficients of conservatism (CoC). We calculated mean WIS, CoC, species richness (observed and estimated) and diversity (1/Simpson's D) for each tract. We used linear mixed‐effect regression and multivariate ordination to describe patterns of sedge abundance and community composition in terms of land‐use history (previously severely grazed intact prairie; previously ungrazed intact prairie; and reconstructed prairie), tall fescue abundance and current management (patch burn‐grazed, burned‐and‐grazed burned only).ResultsOn average, sedges constituted 20 ± 0.01% of total plant abundance. Sedge abundance increased over time and was higher on intact prairie than on reconstructions, but grazing history of intact prairie did not affect sedge abundance. We observed 21 species that averaged moderate wetland affinity (mean WIS = −2.1 ± 0.2) and moderate affinity for undisturbed habitat (mean CoC = 4.5 ± 0.2 and 5.0 ± 0.1) from Iowa and Missouri lists, respectively). Species richness, diversity and conservatism did not vary with land‐use history, current experimental management or tall fescue abundance, although all three variables were associated with patterns of sedge community composition.ConclusionsDiverse and abundant sedge communities provide a substantial forage resource for early season grazing. Neither historical grazing nor current fire/grazing management affected sedge diversity or floristic integrity. These data suggest grazing and the degree of invasion do not necessarily degrade entire native plant communities – responses likely vary among plant groups – but land‐use legacies have a persistent effect on sedge community composition.
Combined C4d and CD3 immunostaining predicts immunoglobulin (Ig)A nephropathy progression
Authors: Faria B , Henriques C , Matos A C , Daha M R , Pestana M , Seelen M 
Published: September 2014

Summary
A number of molecules have been shown recently to be involved in the pathogenesis and progression of immunoglobulin (Ig)A nephropathy (IgAN). Among these, we have selected C4d (complement lectin pathway involvement), CD3 (T cell marker, traducing interstitial inflammation), transglutaminase 2 (TGase-2, involved in tissue fibrosis development) and p-extracelluar-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 (protein kinase intracellular signaling molecule) to perform a panel of immunohistological biomarkers and assess its predictive value for disease progression. Immunohistochemical staining of these biomarkers was performed in paraffin sections from 74 renal biopsy cases with the clinical diagnosis of IgAN. Association between score analysis of these parameters and disease course was assessed through univariate and multivariate analysis, including baseline clinical and histological data. Univariate analysis showed that glomerular C4d, tubulointerstitial TGase2 and CD3 scores were associated with baseline proteinuria and disease progression. Multivariate analysis showed that only baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), C4d and CD3 were associated independently with progressive kidney disease (decline of at least 50% in the eGFR or progression to end-stage renal disease (ESRD) during the follow-up period). Establishing an accurate prediction model for IgAN progression is still a matter of research in clinical nephrology. The complement system, particularly lectin pathway activation, and T cell activation, have been shown previously to be potential modifiers of the disease course. Here we show that the combination of two histological biomarkers (C4d and CD3) can be a powerful predictor of IgAN progression and a potential useful tool for the clinical approach of this disease.
Revisiting telegony: offspring inherit an acquired characteristic of their mother's previous mate
Authors: Crean Angela J. , Kopps Anna M. , Bonduriansky Russell 
Published: September 2014

AbstractNewly discovered non‐genetic mechanisms break the link between genes and inheritance, thereby also raising the possibility that previous mating partners could influence traits in offspring sired by subsequent males that mate with the same female (‘telegony’). In the fly Telostylinus angusticollis, males transmit their environmentally acquired condition via paternal effects on offspring body size. We manipulated male condition, and mated females to two males in high or low condition in a fully crossed design. Although the second male sired a large majority of offspring, offspring body size was influenced by the condition of the first male. This effect was not observed when females were exposed to the first male without mating, implicating semen‐mediated effects rather than female differential allocation based on pre‐mating assessment of male quality. Our results reveal a novel type of transgenerational effect with potential implications for the evolution of reproductive strategies.
Mild Lafora disease: Clinical, neurophysiologic, and genetic findings
Authors: Ferlazzo Edoardo , Canafoglia Laura , Michelucci Roberto , Gambardella Antonio , Gennaro Elena , Pasini Elena , Riguzzi Patrizia , Plasmati Rosaria , Volpi Lilia , Labate Angelo , Gasparini Sara , Villani Flavio , Casazza Marina , Viri Maurizio , Zara Federico , Minassian Berge A. , Turnbull Julie , Serratosa Jose M. , Guerrero‐López Rosa , Franceschetti Silvana , Aguglia Umberto 
Published: September 2014

SummaryWe report clinical, neurophysiologic, and genetic features of an Italian series of patients with Lafora disease (LD) to identify distinguishing features of those with a slowly progressive course. Twenty‐three patients with LD (17 female; 6 male) were recruited. Mean age (± SD) at the disease onset was 14.5 ± 3.9 years and mean follow‐up duration was 13.2 ± 8.0 years. NHLRC1 mutations were detected in 18 patients; EPM2A mutations were identified in 5. Patients who maintained >10 years gait autonomy were labeled as “mild” and were compared with the remaining LD patients with a typical course. Six of 23 patients were mild and presented significantly delay in the age at onset, lower neurologic disability score at 4 years after the onset, less severe seizure phenotype, lower probability of showing both photoparoxysmal response on electroencephalography (EEG) and giant somatosensory evoked potentials, as compared to patients with typical LD. However, in both mild and typical LD patients, EEG showed disorganization of background activity and frequent epileptiform abnormalities. Mild LD patients had NHLRC1 mutations and five of six carried homozygous or compound heterozygous D146N mutation. This mutation was found in none of the patients with typical LD. The occurrence of specific NHLRC1 mutations in patients with mild LD should be taken into account in clinical practice for appropriate management and counseling.
Personality‐Dependent Survival in the Marine Isopod Idotea balthica
Authors: Yli‐Renko Maria , Vesakoski Outi , Pettay Jenni E. 
Published: September 2014

AbstractWe studied the fitness effects of animal personality by measuring activity and its relation to survival in the marine isopod Idotea balthica. We asked (1) whether activity could be considered to be a personality trait, (2) whether this trait is connected to survival, and (3) whether personality and survival exhibit sex differences. We found that activity fulfilled the criteria of personality as individuals had consistent between‐individual differences over time and across situations. Consistent individual differences in activity were associated with fitness as the survival probability of active individuals was lower, but this did not depend on sex. Our results demonstrate that personality exists in I. balthica and support recent suggestions that the association between personality and life‐history traits is a central component in mediating animal personality.
Role of PRC2‐associated factors in stem cells and disease
Authors: Vizán Pedro , Beringer Malte , Ballaré Cecilia , Di Croce Luciano 
Published: September 2014

The Polycomb group (PcG) of proteins form chromatin‐binding complexes with histone‐modifying activity. The two main PcG repressive complexes studied (PRC1 and PRC2) are generally associated with chromatin in its repressed state. PRC2 is responsible for methylation of histone H3 at lysine 27 (H3K27me3), an epigenetic mark that is linked with numerous biological processes, including development, adult homeostasis and cancer. The core canonical complex PRC2, which contains the EZH1/2, SUZ12 and EED proteins, may be extended and functionally manipulated through interactions with several other proteins. In this review, we focus on these PRC2‐associated proteins. As PRC2 functions are diverse, the variability conferred by these sub‐stoichiometrically associated members may help to understand specific changes in PRC2 activity, chromatin recruitment and distribution required for gene repression.
A convenient way to represent fatigue crack growth in structural adhesives
Authors: Jones R. , Hu W. , Kinloch A. J. 
Published: September 2014

AbstractThe present paper examines crack growth in a range of aerospace and automotive structural adhesive joints under cyclic‐fatigue loadings. It is shown that cyclic‐fatigue crack growth in such materials can be represented by a form of the Hartman–Schijve crack‐growth equation, which aims to give a unique and linear ‘master’ representation for the fatigue data points that have been experimentally obtained, as well as enabling the basic fatigue relationship to be readily computed. This relationship is shown to capture the experimental data representing the effects of test conditions, such as R‐ratio and test temperature. It also captures the typical scatter often seen in the fatigue crack‐growth tests, especially at low values of the fatigue crack‐growth rate. The methodology is also shown to be applicable to both Mode I (opening tensile), Mode II (in‐plane shear) and Mixed‐Mode I/II fatigue loadings. Indeed, it has been demonstrated that the fatigue behaviour of structural adhesives under both Mode I and Mode II loadings may be described by one unique ‘master’ linear relationship via the Hartman–Schijve approach.
An Excel Macro to Plot the HFE‐Diagram to Identify Sea Water Intrusion Phases
Authors: Giménez‐Forcada Elena , Sánchez San Román F. Javier 
Published: September 2014

AbstractA hydrochemical facies evolution diagram (HFE‐D) is a multirectangular diagram, which is a useful tool in the interpretation of sea water intrusion processes. This method note describes a simple method for generating an HFE‐D plot using the spreadsheet software package, Microsoft Excel. The code was applied to groundwater from the alluvial coastal plain of Grosseto (Tuscany, Italy), which is characterized by a complex salinization process in which sea water mixes with sulfate or bicarbonate recharge water.
Evaluation of body composition parameters in patients with psoriasis
Authors: Engin Burhan , Kutlubay Zekayi , Yardımcı Gürkan , Vehid Hayriye Ertem , Ambarcıoğlu Pınar , Serdaroğlu Server , Tüzün Yalçın 
Published: September 2014

AbstractBackgroundBody composition parameters, such as weight, body mass index (BMI), and visceral fat rating, have been found to be associated with psoriasis. However, the associations of these parameters with psoriasis have not been demonstrated clearly.ObjectivesThis study aimed to evaluate body composition parameters in patients with psoriasis.MethodsThe relationships between the various body composition parameters and psoriasis were retrospectively examined in 242 patients with plaque psoriasis (119 women, 123 men) over a 2‐year period during 2010–2012. In addition, the correlations between body composition parameters and Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) score were evaluated in treated and untreated patients with psoriasis. Patients were divided into two groups according to whether or not they had received systemic therapy within the previous three months. Body composition values were measured using the Tanita SC‐330 Body Composition Analyzer®.ResultsStatistically significant differences were recorded in terms of weight (kg), body fat percentage, fat mass (kg), total body water (TBW) percentage, metabolic age, visceral fat rating, BMI, and degree of obesity among treated and untreated patients and control subjects. Differences in fat‐free mass (FFM) (kg), muscle mass (kg), TBW (kg), and bone mass (kg) were found to be close to the limit for significance. The treated and untreated groups showed no significant differences in any of the parameters evaluated. The correlations between PASI score and the various parameters provided some evidence for such relationships.ConclusionsThe present study provides evidence of a relationship between some body composition parameters and the occurrence of psoriasis. We suggest that body composition parameters should be analyzed not only in obese psoriasis patients but in all psoriasis patients upon their first diagnosis. Systemic therapy does not appear to cause any changes in body composition parameters.
Quality of life and related factors in a cohort of plaque‐type psoriasis patients in La Coruña, Spain
Authors: Fernández‐Torres Rosa María , Pita‐Fernández Salvador , Fonseca Eduardo 
Published: September 2014

AbstractBackgroundPsoriasis can significantly affect the physical, psychological, and social aspects of a patient's life. Many studies have evaluated the effects of psoriasis on quality of life (QoL), but results in many cases are contradictory.ObjectivesThis study was conducted to assess the relationships between the characteristics of psoriasis (cutaneous severity, arthropathy, treatment) and comorbidities with QoL and to determine which factors have a major influence.MethodsWe assessed demographic data, the severity of cutaneous involvement, psoriasis treatment, presence of arthropathy, psoriasis duration, smoking status, alcohol intake, and the presence of comorbidities. Concomitant diseases were evaluated using the Charlson Comorbidity Index and the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (ATP‐III) criteria for metabolic syndrome. Quality of life was assessed using the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI).ResultsMultivariate analysis showed that factors associated with QoL impairment included gender (women experienced greater impact: odds ratio [OR] 2.85, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.48–5.49; P = 0.002); psoriasis duration (patients with longer durations of psoriasis and psoriasis treatment experienced less impairment: OR 0.96, 95% CI 0.94–0.99; P = 0.004); and treatment type (impact was lower in patients receiving biologic drugs than in those using topical treatment [OR 3.15, 95% CI 1.50–6.62; P = 0.002] and in those using biologics compared with those using conventional systemic treatment [OR 2.23, 95% CI 0.98–5.05; P = 0.053]). Psoriasis severity measured according to scores on the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) and body surface area affected was not related to QoL impairment. Comorbidities were associated with impaired QoL in the univariate analysis but not after adjusting for other covariates.ConclusionsFactors associated with greater impairment of QoL were gender, psoriasis duration, and type of treatment. Patients receiving systemic and biologic therapies reported better QoL.
Sliding Humeral Osteotomy: Medium‐Term Objective Outcome Measures and Reduction of Complications With a Modified Technique
Authors: Fitzpatrick Noel , Bertran Judith , Solano Miguel A. 
Published: September 2014

ObjectiveTo determine mid‐term complication rate associated with a modified sliding humeral osteotomy (SHO) technique and compare clinical outcome with or without focal treatment (FT).AnimalsDogs (n = 46; 60 elbows) with severe or persistent lameness attributable to medial coronoid disease (MCD).MethodsSignalment, lameness, pain score, and preoperative radiographic findings were recorded. Modified Outerbridge score and fissure/fragmentation were recorded arthroscopically. SHO was performed with technical modifications. Outcome measures included lameness score, elbow pain score, owner function assessment, and force‐plate preoperatively, at 6 and 12 weeks, and 6–25 months.ResultsSHO was performed on 60 limbs; 22 also had FT of the medial coronoid process. Mean (±SD) dog age was 44.17 ± 33.0 months and weight range was 17.4–49.8 kg. Preoperative duration of lameness was 2.16 ± 0.69 months. Lameness improved for all limbs by 12 weeks, and resolved in 49 limbs. Significant improvements in postoperative pain scores and most owner function assessments occurred. There was no significant difference with or without FT. There were no major complications and 4.17% minor complications. Force‐plate data available for 18 of 46 dogs operated unilaterally preoperatively and at last follow‐up showed significant improvement in ground reaction force and reduction of asymmetry index (t‐test; P < .05).ConclusionsSHO with or without focal treatment of the medial aspect of the coronoid process ameliorates lameness and pain associated with MCD at medium‐term follow‐up. Application technique is critical to minimize morbidity.
Comparison of Laparoscopic and Open Cystopexy in a Cadaveric Canine Model
Authors: Alvarez W. Alexander , Scharf Valery F. , Case J. Brad 
Published: September 2014

ObjectiveTo describe a technique for laparoscopic cystopexy using knotless barbed suture and to compare this technique with traditional cystopexy using standard suture in a cadaveric canine model.Study DesignCadaveric study.AnimalsMale canine cadavers (n = 12).MethodsCadavers were randomly assigned to 2 groups: laparoscopic (n = 6) and open (n = 6) cystopexy. Laparoscopic cystopexy was performed intracorporeally using barbed, glycomer 631 suture. Open cystopexy was performed using standard glycomer 631 suture. Pre‐ and postoperative positive contrast cystography was performed in all dogs. Cystopexy procedure time, length and adherence, as well as number of bladder mucosal suture penetrations were compared between groups.ResultsMean ± SD cystopexy procedure time was 14.0 ± 3.0 minutes and 5.2 ± 0.5 minutes for the laparoscopic and open groups, respectively (P = .0007). Laparoscopic and open cystopexy lengths were 2.5 ± 0.4 and 2.4 ± 0.5 cm, respectively (P = .43). Partial suture pullout occurred in 1 dog in the laparoscopic group but subjective cystopexy adherence was adequate in all dogs. Bladder mucosal suture penetration occurred in 3 dogs in both groups (P = .86). Two of 6 cadavers with luminal suture penetration had minor contrast leakage on postoperative contrast cystography. Pre‐ and postoperative contrast cystography revealed appropriate bladder position in all cadavers.ConclusionLaparoscopic cystopexy using knotless suture was comparable to an open cystopexy but was associated with a slightly longer procedure time and should be suitable for laparoscopic cystopexyin vivo.
Effects of Intratesticular and Incisional Local Anesthetic Administration for Castration of Alpacas Anesthetized with Intramuscular Ketamine–Xylazine–Butorphanol
Authors: Nickell Jordan , Barter Linda S. , Dechant Julie E. 
Published: September 2014

ObjectiveTo determine the effects of intratesticular and incisional injection of local anesthetics on response to castration, surgical ease, and recovery in alpacas.Study DesignProspective, blinded, randomized, and clinical trial.AnimalsIntact male alpacas (n = 38).MethodsAlpacas were anesthetized with intramuscular butorphanol, ketamine, and xylazine (BKX). Once recumbent, alpacas were instrumented with electrocardiogram, pulse oximeter, oscillometric blood pressure, and capnography. Heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), and blood pressure (BP) were recorded every minute. Treatment drug (lidocaine, bupivacaine, or saline) was infiltrated along the incision and into both testicles followed by a prescrotal closed castration. Timing of major events, presence of movement during the procedure, need for additional anesthesia, and ease of surgery were recorded. Alpacas were administered postoperative oral meloxicam and assessment was made 24 hours after recovery.ResultsMedian RR and mean BP (MBP) were lower in the lidocaine compared with the saline treated group. Median RR, HR, and MBP were significantly lower in the bupivacaine group compared with the saline group. Fewer alpacas displayed physical response to surgical stimulus with bupivacaine. No significant differences were found between groups for timing of events, need for additional anesthesia, ease of surgery, or postoperative assessment.ConclusionIntratesticular local anesthetic blunts autonomic response and facilitates castration in alpacas anesthetized with BKX with minimal negative effects. Bupivacaine may have some benefit for local anesthesia during castration compared with lidocaine.