bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Productivity growth and convergence: a stochastic frontier analysis
Authors: Cardoso Catarina Moura e Sa , Ravishankar Geetha 
Published: April 2015

Purpose– The purpose of this paper is to assess the effect of human capital development on regional productivity growth and convergence in the Spanish provinces over the period 1991-2006.Design/methodology/approach– The stochastic frontier analysis (SFA) methodology is used to estimate production inefficiencies. This approach enables the assessment of the degree to which a given region’s observed output deviates from the maximal possible. Therefore, the resulting region specific productive efficiencies are modelled as outcomes of the level of human capital. Aβ-convergence equation for the regional efficiency levels is also estimated to detect any signs of regional catching-up.Findings– The results show that increasing levels of human capital development are associated with lower regional inefficiency. All levels of education contributed to reduce the inefficiency levels, however, secondary schooling played a stronger role than primary and even higher education. There is also evidence of regional convergence towards the best practice frontier through a process that is beneficially aided by human capital development.Originality/value– The paper combines the use of the SFA to study the effect of human capital on regional productivity with the estimation of aβ-convergence equation for the obtained regional efficiency levels.
Phase I/II study of vemurafenib in patients with unresectable or recurrent melanoma with BRAFV600 mutations
Authors: Yamazaki Naoya , Kiyohara Yoshio , Sugaya Naofumi , Uhara Hisashi 
Published: April 2015

AbstractWe investigated the efficacy and safety of vemurafenib in Japanese patients with unresectable or recurrent melanoma with BRAFV600 mutations. This was a two‐step open‐label multicenter phase I/II study. Step 1 evaluated the initial safety of vemurafenib 960 mg administrated p.o. twice daily in three patients. In step 2, eight patients received vemurafenib 960 mg administrated p.o. twice daily for 28‐day treatment cycles; the primary outcome measure was response rate, as determined by independent review committee using Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors version 1.1. Adverse events (AE) experienced by five or more patients were arthralgia (n = 10), myalgia (n = 8), alopecia (n = 7), and rash, maculopapular rash and decreased appetite (n = 5 each). Three patients had grade 3 AE. One serious AE occurred in one patient (abnormal hepatic function). Six patients required dose reduction because of AE. One patient died within 28 days after the last dose, but death was caused by disease progression and not associated with the study drug. In the eight patients in step 2, overall response rate was 75.0%, none had a complete response and six had a partial response (75.0%). Median response duration was 240.0 days, disease control rate 87.5%, median progression‐free survival 416.0 days and median overall survival 443.0 days. In conclusion, vemurafenib treatment resulted in an overall response rate of 75% in Japanese patients with metastatic melanoma with BRAFV600 mutations. All toxicities were manageable.
A portfolio effect of shrub canopy height on species richness in both stressful and competitive environments
Authors: Bråthen Kari Anne , Lortie Christopher 
Published: April 2015

Summary

Facilitating effects of benefactor plants on plant species richness have been commonly tested in stressful habitats because competitive effects are assumed to predominate in more productive habitats. Here, we examine this assumption by testing whether benefactor plants can nonetheless be facilitating in competitive environments.

We provide a conceptual framework describing how a trait of benefactor plants, canopy height of shrubs, can have a portfolio of facilitative effects on species richness in more competitive environments, and we provide an empirical assessment of this portfolio effect in tundra plant communities.

Across tundra plant communities representing an extensive gradient in aboveground live biomass ranging from 11 to above 800 grams per m2, we found that species richness exhibited a humped‐back relationship. Increasing canopy height of shrubs to a maximum height of what defines the dwarf shrub tundra, that is 40 cm, consistently and significantly increased species richness along the entire biomass gradient tested.

The positive effect of shrub canopy height was not confounded with herbivore intensity, competitive interference or abiotic factors such as bedrock‐weathered mineral availability, moisture availability or temperature. However, we cannot rule out that the general presence of large mammalian herbivory may have been central to the positive effect of shrub canopy height in reducing herbivore impacts on species richness.

In this study, conceptual and empirical evidence support that increasing canopy height of shrubs facilitates species richness regardless of relative abiotic stress levels within tundra ecosystems. We propose that positive interactions can play an important ecological role in systems where competitive effects are observed or assumed. For tundra plant communities where climate change is currently causing encroachment of shrub species, the effects of increasing canopy height may have unprecedented effects on plant species richness.
Disentangling direct and growth‐mediated influences on early survival: a mechanistic approach
Authors: Plard Floriane , Yoccoz Nigel G. , Bonenfant Christophe , Klein François , Warnant Claude , Gaillard Jean‐Michel 
Published: April 2015

Summary

Early survival is a key life‐history trait that often accounts for a large part of the variation in individual fitness and shapes population dynamics. The factors influencing early survival are multiple in large herbivores, including malnutrition, predation, cohort variation or maternal effects. However, the mechanistic pathways connecting these drivers to variation in early survival are much less studied. Indeed, whether these factors influence early survival directly or indirectly through early growth remains to be disentangled.

In this study, we used a path analysis to separate the direct and indirect (i.e. mediated by early growth) pathways through which sex, birth date, cohort and family effects influence early survival. We used a large data set of marked roe deer newborns collected from 1985 to 2010 in the intensively monitored population of Trois Fontaines (France).

We found that most drivers have indirect influences on early survival through early growth. Indeed, cohort effects influenced early survival through the indirect effect of precipitation around birth on early growth. Precipitation also had direct effects on early survival. Family effects indirectly influenced early survival. Twins from the same litter grew at about the same rate, so they had the same fate. Moreover, some factors, such as birth date, had both direct and indirect effects on roe deer early survival, with fawns born early in the season benefiting from high early survival both because they have more time to grow before the harsh season and because they grow faster during their first days of life than late‐born fawns.

These findings suggest that most drivers of early survival previously identified in large mammalian herbivores may affect early survival primarily through their influence on early growth. Disentangling the direct and indirect pathways by which different factors influence early survival is of crucial importance to understand the mechanisms shaping this key component of individual fitness.
Classical Swine Fever Changes the Way Farmers Value Pigs in South Africa
Authors: Madzimure James , Chimonyo Michael , Dzama Kennedy , Garnett Stephen T. , Zander Kerstin K. 
Published: April 2015

AbstractAlthough there is growing demand for animal products in Africa, production is stagnating. Appropriate management of livestock diversity could help reinvigorate production, contribute to food security and improve farmers’ livelihoods, particularly in subsistence‐oriented systems. We assess differences in farmers’ preferences and economic values for pig traits across different production systems and across areas that have been affected and unaffected by classical swine fever (CSF). Not surprisingly, market‐oriented farmers derived higher values from the productive traits such as heavy slaughter weight and large litter size found in exotic pig genotypes. Subsistence‐oriented farmers, particularly in swine fever affected areas, placed high value on tolerance to disease. We found that CSF changed farmers’ preferences for adaptive traits, and less so for productive traits. Therefore, indigenous breeds become more valuable for subsistence farmers and crossbreeds for market‐oriented farmers if CSF is a risk. Our results can have implications for breeding and conservation strategies and for compensation strategies after culling, and will become increasingly relevant if, as predicted, heat waves and disease outbreaks become more frequent in pig production systems in South Africa with climate change.
Living with Autistic Spectrum Disorders: Families, Homes and the Disruption of Space
Authors: DUIGNAN MARGARET , CONNELL JOHN 
Published: April 2015

AbstractGeographical perspectives on the relationships between people with Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD), their home carers and the nature of domestic space are rare. People with an ASD have high levels of anxiety and a range of behaviours that create challenges for family carers. Interviews with forty carers in Sydney reveal how disruptive behaviours, including being noisy, hyperactive, obsessive and controlling, are very demanding for all carers. Carers have adapted home spaces, restricted and reduced patterns of employment and socialisation, and sometimes avoided the home, altering relationships between parents and other siblings. Home care for people with ASD has reduced the sense of home as a place of relaxation peace and stability, and, while providing a more caring environment for people with ASD, has contributed to the partial institutionalisation of the home.
Effect of Single‐ and Two‐Cycle High Hydrostatic Pressure Treatments on Water Properties, Physicochemical and Microbial Qualities of Minimally Processed Squids (Todarodes pacificus)
Authors: Zhang Yifeng , Jiao Shunshan , Lian Zixuan , Deng Yun , Zhao Yanyun 
Published: April 2015

AbstractThis study investigated the effect of single‐ and two‐cycle high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) treatments on water properties, physicochemical, and microbial qualities of squids (Todarodes pacificus) during 4 °C storage for up to 10 d. Single‐cycle treatments were applied at 200, 400, or 600 MPa for 20 min (S‐200, S‐400, and S‐600), and two‐cycle treatments consisted of two 10 min cycles at 200, 400, or 600 MPa, respectively (T‐200, T‐400, and T‐600). HHP‐treated samples had higher (P < 0.05) content of P2b (immobilized water) and P21 (myofibril water), but lower P22 (free water) than those of control. The single‐ and two‐cycle HHP treatments at the same pressure level caused no significant difference in water state of squids. The two‐cycle HHP treatment was more effective in controlling total volatile basic nitrogen, pH, and total plate counts (TPC) of squids during storage, in which TPC of S‐600 and T‐600 was 2.9 and 1.8 log CFU/g at 10 d, respectively, compared with 7.5 log CFU/g in control. HHP treatments delayed browning discoloration of the squids during storage, and the higher pressure level and two‐cycle HHP were more effective. Water properties highly corresponded with color and texture indices of squids. This study demonstrated that the two‐cycle HHP treatment was more effective in controlling microbial growth and quality deterioration while having similar impact on the physicochemical and water properties of squids in comparison with the single‐cycle treatment, thus more desirable for extending shelf‐life of fresh squids.
Comprehensive DNA barcoding of the herpetofauna of Germany
Authors: Hawlitschek O. , Morinière J. , Dunz A. , Franzen M. , Rödder D. , Glaw F. , Haszprunar G. 
Published: April 2015

AbstractWe present the first comprehensive DNA barcoding study of German reptiles and amphibians representing likewise the first on the European herpetofauna. A total of 248 barcodes for all native species and subspecies in the country and a few additional taxa were obtained in the framework of the projects ‘Barcoding Fauna Bavarica’ (BFB) and ‘German Barcode of Life’ (GBOL). In contrast to many invertebrate groups, the success rate of the identification of mitochondrial lineages representing species via DNA barcode was almost 100% because no cases of Barcode Index Number (BIN) sharing were detected within German native reptiles and amphibians. However, as expected, a reliable identification of the hybridogenetic species complex in the frog genus Pelophylax was not possible. Deep conspecific lineages resulting in the identification of more than one BIN were found in Lissotriton vulgaris, Natrix natrix and the hybridogenetic Pelophylax complex. A high variety of lineages with different BINs was also found in the barcodes of wall lizards (Podarcis muralis), confirming the existence of many introduced lineages and the frequent occurrence of multiple introductions. Besides the reliable species identification of all life stages and even of tissue remains, our study highlights other potential applications of DNA barcoding concerning German amphibians and reptiles, such as the detection of allochthonous lineages, monitoring of gene flow and also noninvasive sampling via environmental DNA. DNA barcoding based on COI has now proven to be a reliable and efficient tool for studying most amphibians and reptiles as it is already for many other organism groups in zoology.
Asian lupus in a multi‐ethnic society: what can be learnt?
Authors: Hoi Alberta 
Published: April 2015

AbstractEthnic differences in systemic lupus erythematosus account for part of the variability in disease susceptibility and expression observed in patients. By studying these racial dissimilarities in a multi‐ethnic society, it allows us greater understanding of disease epidemiology, natural history and pathogenesis affected by ethnicity. Disease outcomes and the effects on disability and quality of life have not been well studied in Asian lupus. Ethnic difference in patient perceptions of disease and treatment could also play a large role in adherence and ultimately disease outcome. Future studies that explore these areas may shed insight into better ways either to use existing treatment regimes or to measure efficacy of new therapies in lupus patients. Given the increased susceptibility and more severe disease manifestations, the Asia‐Pacific region is well placed in studying disease outcomes and effects of novel therapies.
Optimizing the use of existing therapies in lupus
Authors: Croyle Lucy , Morand Eric F. 
Published: April 2015

AbstractThe management of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is complicated by heterogeneous clinical presentations, a lack of universally accepted tools for the measurement of disease activity and a lack of powerful, safe, specific targeted therapies. Current medical treatment of disease activity relies on glucocorticoids as well as agents including hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) azathioprine (AZA), and less frequently cyclophosphamide. These agents are generally used in fixed, weight‐based dosing regimens, and both incomplete response and adverse effects are common. An emerging literature in SLE and other inflammatory diseases in which these drugs are used suggests that improved patient outcomes could be achieved through a different approach to their use. Measurement of drug or metabolite concentrations has been shown in a number of studies to identify under‐ and over‐dosing, predict efficacy and detect non‐adherence to therapy, with positive associations between optimum drug or metabolite levels and improved outcomes. In this paper, we will review the literature regarding the measurement of HCQ, MMF, AZA and cyclophosphamide drug and metabolite levels in SLE and inflammatory disease, and make recommendations for future research that could facilitate improved outcomes for patients with SLE.
A qualitative systematic review of the prevalence of coronary artery disease in systemic sclerosis
Authors: Ali Hassan , Ng Kiat R. , Low Andrea H. L. 
Published: April 2015

AbstractAimsTo review existing literature on the prevalence/incidence of coronary artery disease (CAD), and secondarily highlight risk factors for CAD in systemic sclerosis (SSc).MethodsA PubMed and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials search of studies (till 30 November 2013) relating to SSc and CAD was performed, retrieving 180 titles. Inclusion criteria: studies reporting CAD prevalence/incidence in SSc based on autopsy findings, coronary artery calcium scores, coronary angiographic findings and physician/patient‐reported CAD. Exclusion criteria: (i) not written in English; (ii) not concerned with human subjects; (iii) single case reports or review articles; (iv) genetic studies; and 95) other surrogate outcome measures of atherosclerosis. Quality assessment was done using the Newcastle‐Ottawa score (range 0–9).ResultsThirteen studies (Newcastle‐Ottawa score 5–8) were selected. Of eight studies with controls, seven reported increased CAD prevalence (10–56%) or incidence (2.3%) compared to controls (prevalence 2–44%; incidence 1.5%). Of five studies without controls, CAD prevalence was 8–32%. Five of six studies reported that traditional cardiovascular risk factors were similar/reduced in SSc compared to controls. SSc was an independent risk factor for CAD, in addition to age (n = 2), hypercholesterolaemia (n = 3), male gender (n = 1), hypertension and diabetes (n = 1). Disease duration, renal involvement and pulmonary arterial hypertension were associated with CAD.ConclusionsSystemic sclerosis is associated with an increased prevalence/incidence of CAD. SSc is an independent risk factor for CAD. The association of CAD with SSc‐related factors requires further research. Meanwhile, patients with SSc should be screened and treated for identified traditional cardiovascular risk factors.
Incomplete clearance of apoptotic cells in systemic lupus erythematosus: pathogenic role and potential biomarker
Authors: Jung Ju‐Yang , Suh Chang‐Hee 
Published: April 2015

AbstractSystemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease with repeated inflammation against multiple organs. Although its pathophysiology is not yet unveiled, uncleared apoptotic cells and their accumulation in tissue contribute to the autoimmune disturbance in SLE. Apoptosis is a programmed cell death process, which maintains tissue homeostasis and inhibits the development of any further immune response against apoptotic remnants. Earlier studies revealed that various ‘eat‐me’ signals on apoptotic cells, bridging molecules and their receptors on phagocytes play a role in such a complicated process. Tyro3‐Axl‐Mer receptors, their bridging molecules, milk fat globulin epidermal growth factor‐8, T‐cell immunoglobulin mucin domain protein family, scavenger receptors, C1q, and pentraxins were found to be abnormal in SLE. In this review, apoptosis and clearance of its remnants are summarized, and the molecules involved in the incomplete clearance of apoptotic cells in SLE are discussed.
Preoperative computed tomography‐guided percutaneous localization of ground glass pulmonary opacity with polylactic acid injection
Authors: Hu Mu , Zhi Xiuyi , Zhang Jian 
Published: April 2015

AbstractLocalization of a ground glass nodule is a difficult challenge for thoracic surgeons, especially for ground glass opacities (GGOs) less than 10 mm in diameter. In this study we implement a new method for preoperative localization of pulmonary (GGOs). From October 2013 to December 2014, computed tomography‐guided percutaneous polylactic acid injection localizations were performed for five pulmonary nodules in five patients (2 men and 3 women; mean age, 59.8 years; range, 54–65 years). The injection was feasible in all patients and the localization effect was excellent. The total procedure duration was 12.6 minutes (range; 10–15) and the volume of polylactic acid injected was 0.38 mL. The wedge resections were easily and successfully performed in all five cases. The cutting margin was no less than 2 cm from the lesion. This technique is promising for the determination of GGO location in thoracoscopic surgery for wedge resection.
Shifts in the gut microbiome observed in wildlife faecal samples exposed to natural weather conditions: lessons from time‐series analyses using next‐generation sequencing for application in field studies
Authors: Menke Sebastian , Meier Matthias , Sommer Simone 
Published: April 2015

Summary

Gut microbiome studies in wildlife species are of increasing interest to understand the effects of intrinsic and extrinsic factors on the variation of bacterial communities, which are associated with host health. Current research is mainly restricted to faecal samples obtained during veterinary inspections or to collection of faeces instantly after defecation. For some elusive wildlife species, the collection of faeces in the field can only occur hours or days after defecation and might be the only option to investigate their gut microbiomes. However, to interpret bacterial sequencing results, it is essential to understand how abiotic and biotic factors affect bacteria in faecal material after defecation.

We analysed gut microbiomes of two ungulate species, the giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis) and the springbok (Antidorcas marsupialis), based on field‐collected faecal material and further investigated how exposure to the environment influenced gut bacteria over time. We applied high‐throughput microbial 16S rRNA gene sequencing to daily faecal subsamples exposed to the environment and assigned taxonomy to sequence reads. We used diversity measures, GAMs and SourceTracker (Knights, Kuczynski & Charlson, Nature Methods, 2011; 8: 761) to assess how community compositions and specifically the ratios of anaerobic to facultatively aerobic and aerobic bacteria were effected during exposure.

Our results demonstrate shifts in microbial communities over time in both species with a decrease of anaerobic bacteria and an increase of facultatively aerobic and aerobic bacteria. SourceTracker analyses revealed that the native microbiome still contributed up to 90% to the giraffe microbiome after 1 week, but only up to 31% in springbok. Furthermore, changes in proportions of bacterial taxa appeared earlier and were stronger in springboks than in giraffes. Differences in sample degradation between the species were due to a combination of environmental factors and differences in faecal characteristics.

Bacterial data derived from faecal samples without a known history can lead to false description of gut microbiomes. Therefore, we highlight the need for preliminary tests to assess up to which point such samples can still deliver reliable results. Such a strategy will enable the investigation of gut microbiomes in wildlife species where immediate sample collection is not possible.