bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Estimating animal resource selection from telemetry data using point process models
Authors: Johnson Devin S. , Hooten Mevin B. , Kuhn Carey E. 
Published: June 2013

Summary

Analyses of animal resource selection functions (RSF) using data collected from relocations of individuals via remote telemetry devices have become commonplace. Increasing technological advances, however, have produced statistical challenges in analysing such highly autocorrelated data. Weighted distribution methods have been proposed for analysing RSFs with telemetry data. However, they can be computationally challenging due to an intractable normalizing constant and cannot be aggregated (i.e. collapsed) over time to make space‐only inference.

In this study, we take a conceptually different approach to modelling animal telemetry data for making RSF inference. We consider the telemetry data to be a realization of a space–time point process. Under the point process paradigm, the times of the relocations are also considered to be random rather than fixed.

We show the point process models we propose are a generalization of the weighted distribution telemetry models. By generalizing the weighted model, we can access several numerical techniques for evaluating point process likelihoods that make use of common statistical software. Thus, the analysis methods can be readily implemented by animal ecologists.

In addition to ease of computation, the point process models can be aggregated over time by marginalizing over the temporal component of the model. This allows a full range of models to be constructed for RSF analysis at the individual movement level up to the study area level.

To demonstrate the analysis of telemetry data with the point process approach, we analysed a data set of telemetry locations from northern fur seals (Callorhinus ursinus) in the Pribilof Islands, Alaska. Both a space–time and an aggregated space‐only model were fitted. At the individual level, the space–time analysis showed little selection relative to the habitat covariates. However, at the study area level, the space‐only model showed strong selection relative to the covariates.
Interactive effects of temporal and spatial fire characteristics on the population dynamics of a fire‐dependentCypress species
Authors: Rodríguez‐Buriticá Susana , Suding Katharine 
Published: June 2013

SummaryCurrent predictions about climate change and its impact on fire regimes have spurred research on how increasing fire frequencies will affect the population dynamics of fire‐dependent species. There has been less consideration of changes in the spatial characteristics of fire regimes, despite recognition of the importance of spatial heterogeneity and connectivity in population dynamics.Here, we test the hypothesis that spatial heterogeneity in fire regimes may not benefit obligate seeders with canopy seed bank, due to regeneration constraints into non‐burned areas. We develop a size‐structured population model for a population ofTecate cypressCallitropsis forbesii(Jeps.) Little, a rare obligate seeder of conservation concern, across a complex landscape in theSantaAnaMountains (Orange,CA,USA). Combining the population model with field measurements of stand structure and fire history, we test the roles of heterogeneity in fire regime and dispersal among patches with differing fire history on population persistence.The model predicts population persistence at fire return intervals >17 years, the approximate fire return interval at the site over the last century. However, population growth and population persistence increase when subpopulations are connected by dispersal and, within a small window of fire return intervals, when subpopulations have uncorrelated fire dynamics. Contrary to our expectations, spatial heterogeneity in fire regime increased population growth rates at intermediate (15–25 year) fire return intervals.Synthesis and applications. Conservation efforts focused on isolated populations of fire‐dependent species should focus on both the temporal (fire return interval) and spatial (heterogeneity in fire occurrence) aspects of fire regimes. For one threatenedCypress species, we find that the interaction between temporal and spatial characteristics of a fire regime can increase the risks of population extinction, particularly under fire regimes characterized by more frequent, larger and more spatially homogenous fire. Species with fragmented subpopulations not well connected by dispersal also have a greater risk of extinction under these fire regimes.
Assessing the causes and scales of the leaf economics spectrum using venation networks in Populus tremuloides
Authors: Blonder Benjamin , Violle Cyrille , Enquist Brian J. 
Published: June 2013

Summary

The leaf economics spectrum (LES) describes global interspecific correlations between leaf traits. Despite recent theoretical advances, the biological scale at which LES correlations emerge and the physiological and climatic causes of these correlations remains partially unknown.

Here, we test an extant theory based on universal trade‐offs in leaf venation networks that predicts that (i) the LES primarily originates within individuals; (ii) minor vein density drives LES trait correlations; and (iii) between individuals, LES correlations reflects variation in minor vein density driven by water availability. To test these predictions, we sample leaves within and between clones of Populus tremuloides across a wide climate gradient.

We show that predictions i) and iii) are supported but ii) is only partially supported. To account for this discrepancy, we develop a more general venation theory. This theory describes linkages between vein density, leaf area and leaf thickness that can modulate LES correlations across scales. This theory helps to identify multiple selective pressures that can drive trait covariation underlying the LES.

Synthesis. Our results broaden the range of biological scales at which the leaf economics spectrum (LES) is found and highlight the complex causal roles of venation networks in LES correlations. This study points to the need to better understand the coupling between venation networks, leaf size and climate to fully understand the LES.
Combined small‐cell lung carcinoma: An institutional experience
Authors: Wallace Audrey S. , Arya Monika , Frazier Shellaine R. , Westgate Steven , Wang Zhenyu , Doll Donald 
Published: June 2013

AbstractBackgroundThe purpose of this study is to determine prognostic factors and survival in patients who present with combined small‐cell lung cancer (SCLC).MethodsA retrospective review of combined SCLC histology in patients treated between1995–2010 was undertaken. Demographics, diagnostic information, disease characteristics, treatment modality, and survival were captured. Survival estimates were performed using Kaplan Meier analysis. Statistical significance was defined as P < 0.05.ResultsForty‐one patients were identified, and 35 records were available for analysis. Median age at diagnosis was 68 (range 50–85). The study included 20 (57%) women and 15 (43%) men; and 94% had a current or former history of smoking. Histology was SCLC/large cell carcinoma not otherwise specified in 28 (80%), and SCLC/adenocarcinoma or SCLC/squamous cell carcinoma in seven (20%). Cardiac or pulmonary comorbidities were present in 80% of patients, and 24 patients had metastatic disease at presentation. Twenty‐eight patients received treatment of chemotherapy (n = 24), cranial radiotherapy (n = 5), or thoracic radiotherapy (n = 7). Staging was as follows: stage I‐III (n = 11), stage IV (n = 24). Median survival was 15.4 months (range <1–53 months) and 3.4 months (range <1–21.9 months) for American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) stage I‐III and stage IV, respectively. Estimated overall six and 12 month survival was 82%, 55%, 37%, and 17% for stage I‐III and stage IV, respectively. An improved overall survival rate was found for patients with an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of <2, and no weight loss (P < 0.05).ConclusionAkin to SCLC, advanced stage combined SCLC portends a poor prognosis. Perhaps novel chemotherapeutic drugs or targeted agents may improve outcomes for future patient populations.
Lack of epidermal growth factor receptor gene mutations in exons 19 and 21 in primary lymphoepithelioma‐like carcinoma of the lung
Authors: Liu Qianwen , Ma Guowei , Yang Haoxian , Wen Jing , Li Mei , Yang Hong , Luo Kongjia , Hu Yi , Fu Jianhua 
Published: June 2013

AbstractBackgroundPrimary lymphoepithelioma‐like carcinoma (LELC) of the lung is uncommon in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) targeted therapy has been applied in advanced common NSCLC. Whether EGFR‐targeted therapy is also suitable for LELC of the lung remains unclear. As we know, EGFR gene mutation is a predictive factor. Therefore, EGFR gene mutations in exons 19 and 21 in Chinese patients with LELC of the lung were investigated.MethodsClinicopathological information was obtained by a retrospective review of the medical history recorded in the patients' charts. EGFR gene mutations in exons 19 and 21 were analyzed in 32 samples of LELC of the lung by TaqMan real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR).ResultsEleven (34.4%) of the patients were male and 21 (65.6%) patients female. The mean age at diagnosis was 50.9 years (range, 25–71 years). Seven (21.9%) of the patients were smokers. In situ hybridization for Epstein‐Barr virus‐encoded small RNAs (EBERs) showed positive signals in all 32 patients. None of the tumors had mutations in exons 19 and 21. EGFR‐targeted therapy was used in three patients with advanced disease and one patient with distant recurrence. However, no obvious therapeutic effect was found.ConclusionThese data showed that LELC of the lung, a special histological type of lung cancer, lacked EGFR gene mutations in exons 19 and 21, which suggested that there was no opportunity for EGFR‐targeted therapy for patients with LELC of the lung.
Maternal Factor V Leiden and Prothrombin Mutations Do Not Seem to Contribute to the Occurrence of Two or More Than Two Consecutive Miscarriages in Caucasian patients
Authors: Baumann Kristin , Beuter‐Winkler Petra , Hackethal Andreas , Strowitzki Thomas , Toth Bettina , Bohlmann Michael K. 
Published: June 2013

BackgroundWe analysed the prevalence of the most common hereditary thrombophilia (hTP) – factor V Leiden (FVL) mutation, prothrombin 20210 G>A substitution (PT) – and the 677 C>T replacement in the 5,10‐methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene in Caucasian patients with a history of two and more consecutive recurrent miscarriages (RMs) as compared to healthy controls with an identical ethnic background and at least one live birth.MethodsA multicenter analysis of three hTP was performed in 641 RM patients identically screened at specialized university centres.ResultsThe study groups consisted of 240 patients with 2 (1) and 401 patients with >2 miscarriages (2) and were compared with 157 controls. There was no significant difference in the prevalence of the hTP between RM patients and controls nor within the two study groups. Subgroup analysis showed that the homozygous MTHFR polymorphism was significantly more prevalent in the study group 2 as compared to study group 1 (13.9 versus 7.9%, P = 0.02).ConclusionIn Caucasians, maternal FVL or PT mutations do not seem to contribute to the pathophysiology of RM, irrespective of the number of miscarriages. However, the role of the homozygous MTHFR polymorphism merits further investigation.
Computer‐controlled stimulation for functional magnetic resonance imaging studies of the neonatal olfactory system
Authors: Arichi T , Gordon‐Williams R , Allievi A , Groves AM , Burdet E , Edwards AD 
Published: June 2013

AbstractAimOlfactory sensation is highly functional early in human neonatal life, with studies suggesting that odours can influence behaviour and infant–mother bonding. Due to its good spatial properties, blood oxygen level–dependent (BOLD) contrast functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) has the potential to rapidly advance our understanding of the neural activity which underlies the development of olfactory perception in this key period. We aimed to design an ‘olfactometer’ specifically for use with neonatal subjects for fMRI studies of odour perception.MethodsWe describe a fully automated and programmable, fMRI compatible system capable of presenting odorant liquids. To prevent contamination of the system and minimize between‐subject infective risk, the majority of the olfactometer is constructed from single‐use, readily available clinical equipment. The system was used to present the odour of infant formula milk in a validation group of seven neonatal subjects at term equivalent postmenstrual age (median age 40 weeks).ResultsA safe, reliable and reproducible pattern of stimulation was delivered leading to well‐localized positive BOLD functional responses in the piriform cortex, amygdala, thalamus, insular cortex and cerebellum.ConclusionsThe described system is therefore suitable for detailed studies of the ontology of olfactory sensation and perception during early human brain development.
Use of multiple criteria in an ecological assessment of a prairie restoration chronosequence
Authors: Hansen Michael J. , Gibson David J. 
Published: June 2013

AbstractQuestionsWas ecological fidelity (structure/composition, function and durability) restored in a series of tallgrass prairie restorations? Which factors influenced success? Can success be assessed in prairie restoration using indices of ecological fidelity?LocationNachusa Grasslands in Lee and Ogle Counties, Illinois,USA.MethodsTo assess restoration of ecological fidelity, mean coefficient of conservatism (Mean C), floristic quality index (FQI), above‐ground net primary productivity (ANPP), soil bulk density, total soil nitrogen (N) and total soil carbon of 19 restoration sites were recorded from 20 × 50 m modified Whittaker plots across a chronosequence, and compared to benchmark values acquired from both the literature and field observation of remnant prairies. Following assessment, multiple factors were examined through correlation analysis, Akaike's information criterion and multiple regression analysis to determine the relationship of these factors to restoration success.ResultsAll restoration sites attained the benchmark value for Mean C, while only four attained the benchmark value forFQI. Mean C andFQIboth decreased across the chronosequence. Frequency of prescribed fire and soil bulk density had significant positive relationships to Mean C.FQIwas best explained by theFQIvalue of the seed mix sown. Thirteen restoration sites attained the benchmark value forANPP, which remained stable across the restoration chronosequence. Abundance of exotic species and soil drainage had a negative relationship toANPP. Few restoration sites attained benchmark values for soil bulk density, total N and total carbon, and none of the sites showed a trajectory towards benchmark values across the chronosequence.ConclusionsOur study demonstrates that high‐quality seed mixes may aid in establishing prairie restorations with high scores of floristic quality. However, restoration of vegetation does not guarantee the successful restoration of ecological function. Long‐term monitoring is needed to more effectively assess durability and the multiple factors that influence restoration quality. Overall, the three components of ecological fidelity related to structure/composition, function and durability provide a useful framework to assess restoration success and guide management. Our study can serve as a model for future research and assessment of restoration success.
Overlapping and distinct gray and white matter abnormalities in schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder
Authors: Anderson Dana , Ardekani Babak A , Burdick Katherine E , Robinson Delbert G , John Majnu , Malhotra Anil K , Szeszko Philip R 
Published: June 2013

ObjectivesSchizophrenia and bipolar disorder may share common neurobiological mechanisms, but few studies have directly compared gray and white matter structure in these disorders. We used diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging and a region of interest based analysis to identify overlapping and distinct gray and white matter abnormalities in 35 patients with schizophrenia and 20 patients with bipolar I disorder in comparison to 56 healthy volunteers.MethodsWe examined fractional anisotropy within the white matter and mean diffusivity within the gray matter in 42 regions of interest defined on a probabilistic atlas following non‐linear registration of the images to atlas space.ResultsPatients with schizophrenia had significantly lower fractional anisotropy in temporal (superior temporal and parahippocampal) and occipital (superior and middle occipital) white matter compared to patients with bipolar disorder and healthy volunteers. By contrast, both patient groups demonstrated significantly higher mean diffusivity in frontal (inferior frontal and lateral orbitofrontal) and temporal (superior temporal and parahippocampal) gray matter compared to healthy volunteers, but did not differ from each other.ConclusionsOur study implicates overlapping gray matter frontal and temporal lobe structural alterations in the neurobiology of schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder, but suggests that temporal and occipital lobe white matter deficits may be an additional risk factor for schizophrenia. Our findings may have relevance for future diagnostic classification systems and the identification of susceptibility genes for these disorders.
Exposure Ethics: Does Hiv Pre‐Exposure Prophylaxis Raise Ethical Problems for the Health Care Provider and Policy Maker?
Authors: Venter Francois , Allais Lucy , Richter Marlise 
Published: June 2013

AbstractThe last few years have seen dramatic progress in the development of HIV pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). These developments have been met by ethical concerns. HIV interventions are often thought to be ethically difficult. In a context which includes disagreements over human rights, controversies over testing policies, and questions about sexual morality and individual responsibility, PrEP has been seen as an ethically complex intervention. We argue that this is mistaken, and that in fact, PrEP does not raise new ethical concerns. Some of the questions posed by PrEP are not specific to HIV prophylaxis, but simply standard public health considerations about resource allocation and striking a balance between individual benefit and public good. We consider sexual disinhibition in the context of private prescriptions, and conclude that only unjustified AIDS‐exceptionalism or inappropriate moralism about sex supports thinking that PrEP raises new ethical problems. This negative conclusion is significant in a context where supposed ethical concerns about PrEP have been raised, and in the context of HIV exceptionalism.
Reasonability and Conscientious Objection in Medicine: A Reply to Marsh and an Elaboration of the Reason‐Giving Requirement
Authors: Card Robert F. 
Published: June 2013

AbstractIn this paper I defend the Reasonability View: the position that medical professionals seeking a conscientious exemption must state reasons in support of their objection and allow those reasons to be subject to evaluation. Recently, this view has been criticized by Jason Marsh as proposing a standard that is either too difficult to meet or too easy to satisfy. First, I defend the Reasonability View from this proposed dilemma. Then, I develop this view by presenting and explaining some of the central criteria it uses to assess whether a conscientious objection is proper grounds for extending an exemption to a medical practitioner.
IBS: Transformation of Our Governance
Authors: Basford Kaye E. 
Published: June 2013

AbstractSummaryIn my Presidential Address at the 2010 International Biometric Conference in Florianopolis, I outlined the revised governance structure for the International Biometric Society (IBS). That structure was subsequently modified, with the final version being approved by the society membership in June 2012. The membership also approved the merger of the constitution with the bylaws, effectively dissolving the constitution (as it was no longer consistent with practice). From January 1, 2013, responsibility for the governance and leadership of the IBS rests with a 15‐member Executive Board which will be supported by a larger Representative Council whose members are selected by and from each of the society's regions. The Representative Council is responsible for overseeing the determination of the Executive Board, providing advice on strategic and policy issues, and contributing to the operation of the IBS. This Council will be an effective conduit between the regions and the Executive Board, aided by the Chair attending all Board meetings.
Social defeat andPTSDsymptoms following trauma
Authors: Troop Nicholas A. , Hiskey Syd 
Published: June 2013

ObjectivesResearch indicates that constructs relevant to social rank predict a diagnosis of post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), including mental defeat, alienation, and shame. However, no studies have yet explored a social rank view explicitly.DesignThis was a community‐based study carried out online. Analyses were both cross‐sectional and longitudinal over 6 months.MethodsParticipants were recruited online for a cross‐sectional study (Study 1,n = 194) and a 6‐month longitudinal study (Study 2,n = 81). Measures included self‐report measures ofPTSDsymptoms (the Post‐Traumatic Diagnostic Scale) and social rank (including measures of unfavourable social comparison, social defeat, and internal/external entrapment).ResultsCross‐sectional analysis showed that social defeat, but not other aspects of social rank, was independently predictive of a diagnosis ofPTSD. Longitudinal analysis showed that greater social defeat at baseline predicted less improvement inPTSDsymptoms, whereas greater reduction in social defeat over the 6‐month follow‐up predicted greater improvement inPTSDsymptoms.ConclusionsIn addition to the implications for understanding the role of social (rather than individual mental) defeat in the aetiology ofPTSD, interventions could usefully incorporate methods that either increase social status or else minimize the impact of low status (e.g., through the use of compassion‐focused approaches).Practitioner pointsClinical implicationsPost‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) status is related to social defeat independently of demographic characteristics and features of the trauma.Reduction in PTSD symptoms over 6 months is predicted by reduction in social defeat.The evidence supports the use of interventions that increase self‐perceived status or minimize the impact of low status (such as compassion‐focused approaches).Cautions or limitationsParticipants were recruited online and may not be representative of clinical samples.Measures, including diagnostic tools, were self‐report rather than interview‐ or observation based.With only two time points in the longitudinal study, direction of causality cannot be determined.