bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Estimating density dependence and latent population trajectories with unknown observation error
Authors: Hosack Geoffrey R. , Peters Gareth W. , Hayes Keith R. 
Published: November 2012

Summary1. Observation error is the uncertainty in population size that results from not only sampling error but also migration, population heterogeneity, observer error, population interactions with weather and habitat, analysis of observational data, and other sources of error that may introduce Gaussian or non‐Gaussian noise between the observed population and its modelled dynamics.2. We investigate the use of the normal inverse Gaussian (NIG) distribution as a model of observation error that flexibly captures processes such as undercounting, overcounting and outlying observations. The NIG distribution captures asymmetry and heavy‐tailedness in an interpretable parametric model that includes the popular Gaussian observation model as a limiting case.3. The implications of using the NIG model are explored by fitting nonlinear density‐dependent population models with environmental stochasticity to animal census data. We pay particular attention to the estimated per capita growth rate, estimates of future population size and quasi‐extinction risk.4. We use Bayes factors to evaluate the support for hypotheses for non‐Gaussian observation error model, including priors that represent alternative hypotheses of asymmetry in the observation model. Support for these flexible observation models are contrasted with the special case of a Gaussian observation model.5. Flexible observation error may affect estimates of population per capita growth rates and predictions of extinction risk. The dependence of estimates, and predictions, on the choice of observation model may occur even if the data provide comparable support for both Gaussian and non‐Gaussian observation errors. Thus, for some populations with census data, the relative degree of prior belief in alternative hypotheses of process and observation model structure will significantly affect ecological predictions with management implications, such as quasi‐extinction risk.
Assessing Light Competition for Cereal Production in Temperate Agroforestry Systems using Experimentation and Crop Modelling
Authors: Dufour L. , Metay A. , Talbot G. , Dupraz C. 
Published: November 2012

AbstractIn every agroforestry system, the tree canopy reduces the incident radiation for the crop. However, cereal varieties were selected, and most crop growth models were designed for unshaded conditions, so both may be unsuited to agroforestry conditions and performance. In southern France, durum wheat productivity was monitored over 2 years in an agroforestry system including walnut trees and under artificial shade conditions. Yield components were measured in both full and reduced light conditions. The cereal yield was always decreased by shade; by almost 50% for the heaviest shade conditions (31% of light reduction). The main effect of the shade was the reduction in the number of grains per spike (35% at the most) and in the weight of grains (16% at the most). The mean grain weight was moderately affected, while the protein content was increased in shaded conditions (by up to 38% for artificial shade). Consequently, the protein yield per hectare was less reduced by the shade than the dry matter grain yield. A crop model (STICS) was also used to simulate the crop productivity in full light and shaded conditions, but the crop LAI and the yield components were not correctly simulated in the shade. The simulations emphasized the sensitivity of the wheat grain filling to shade during the critical period, 30 days before flowering, for yield elaboration. Further experimental and modelling studies should take into account the heterogeneity of shade intensity due to the shape of the tree crown, the width of the crop alley and the orientation of the tree rows and the modification of carbon allocation inside the plant.
Domain Structure Evolution and Polarization Degradation of [101]‐Oriented 0.74Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3‐0.26PbTiO3 Single Crystal underCyclic Electric Loadings
Authors: Fang Fei , Luo Xu , Yang Wei 
Published: November 2012

The polarization degradation of ferroelectrics, reflected in the hysteresis loop as a decrease of remnant polarization, is a serious concern in applications. In situ observation of the polarization and domain structure evolution are carried out for [101]‐Oriented 0.74Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3‐0.26PbTiO3 (PMN‐26PT) single crystal under cyclic electric field. Measurements of the polarization hysteresis loops are conducted under a polarized light microscope (PLM), which is effective in detecting the domain structure of the single crystal. Prior to the polarization measurements, the crystal was poled. Upon cyclic electric field, reversal of monoclinic (MB) takes place, and the phase transition from MB to orthorhombic (O) phase occurs under positive field, but not under negative field of an electric cycle at a field magnitude up to 840 V/mm. The polarization loop is asymmetrical with the positive coercive field (+Ec) much less than the negative one (−Ec). As the field cycles, micro‐cracking occurs preferably in [101] direction, and a sudden drop appears in the curves of polarization versus number of cycles. Upon electric cycling at a field magnitude of 840 V/mm, the negative polarization increases slightly with the cycle number, indicating the rotation of a MB phase toward the applied field direction.
Pitch the niche – taking responsibility for the concepts we use in ecology and species distribution modelling
Authors: McInerny Greg J. , Etienne Rampal S. 
Published: November 2012

AbstractIn a discussion it is often easier to staunchly reject or offer resolute support for an idea. This third paper on the niche concept aims to develop a balanced argument by exploring general principles for determining an appropriate level for pitching the niche concept that will guide better use and less abuse of niche concepts. To do this we first have to accept that niche concepts are not necessarily essential for ecology. Rather than to improve niche concepts, our aim should then be to pitch the niche in terms of ecology. This aim helps us develop an ‘ultimate goal of the niche’ by which we can evaluate the concepts we use. For species distribution modelling, there has been a focus on the niche as an equilibrium outcome that perhaps has less relevance for disequilibrium situations (e.g. climate change projections). As is the case for much of ecology, more causal explanations of species' distributions use alternative terminologies and less frequently use the word ‘niche’. We suggest that niche concepts that are better aligned with the rest of ecology could arise from taking more responsibility for our own implementations, and by explaining our models with terms other than niche. A general, holistic niche concept promotes this view and promotes practical thinking about what we are modelling and how we interpret those models, which in turn should help inspire and support innovative modelling approaches in species distribution modelling.
Stitch the niche – a practical philosophy and visual schematic for the niche concept
Authors: McInerny Greg J. , Etienne Rampal S. 
Published: November 2012

AbstractBy over‐focusing on precise definitions, ecology has produced a confused idea of the niche concept. This, our second paper, develops a practical philosophy for the niche that approaches the concept at the correct level of abstraction. We deconstruct the niche into effect and response components and then reconstruct those parts into a general, visual schematic of the niche and ecology. Using this schematic we examine the relationship of particular niche ideas to ecology, and examine the relationship between niche and ecological sub‐disciplines, particularly species distribution modelling (SDM). This general description clarifies the duality of the niche concept, as both a facet of species and a facet of environments. Unclear use of these dual concepts can confuse the scientific approach, and our ideas about uncertainty and error. By misclassifying models as concepts, ecology has confused the niche. Our practical philosophy uses the current wealth of ecological and niche ideas as a panoramic view of a general niche concept. We argue that stitching the niche produces a concept that underpins straightforward ecological thinking.
Combination therapy with an angiotensin‐converting‐enzyme inhibitor and an angiotensin II receptor antagonist ameliorates microinflammation and oxidative stress in patients with diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Nakamura Akihiko , Shikata Kenichi , Nakatou Tatsuaki , Kitamura Takuya , Kajitani Nobuo , Ogawa Daisuke , Makino Hirofumi 
Published: November 2012

AbstractAims/IntroductionRecent studies have pointed to the effectiveness of combination therapy with an angiotensin‐converting‐enzyme inhibitor (ACEI) and an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) for diabetic nephropathy. However, some controversy over this combination treatment remains and the mechanisms underlying its renoprotective effects have not been fully clarified. Therefore, we compared the renoprotective effects of imidapril (ACEI) and losartan (ARB) combination therapy with losartan monotherapy in patients with diabetic nephropathy. We also compared the anti‐inflammatory and anti‐oxidative stress effects of these two treatments.Materials and MethodsA total of 32 Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes and nephropathy were enrolled. Patients were randomized to either 100 mg/day losartan (n = 16) or 50 mg/day losartan plus 5 mg/day imidapril (n = 16). We evaluated clinical parameters, serum concentrations of high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP), soluble intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 (sICAM‐1), interleukin‐18 (IL‐18) and monocyte chemotactic protein‐1 (MCP‐1), and the urinary concentrations of IL‐18, MCP‐1 and 8‐hydroxy‐2′‐deoxyguanosine (8‐OHdG) at 24 and 48 weeks after starting treatment.ResultsBlood pressure was not significantly different between the two groups. The serum levels of hs‐CRP, sICAM‐1 and IL‐18, as well as urinary excretion of albumin, IL‐18 and 8‐OHdG decreased significantly in the combination therapy group at 48 weeks. The percent decreases in serum IL‐18 concentrations and urinary IL‐18 and 8‐OHdG were significantly greater in the combination therapy group than in the monotherapy group.ConclusionsCombination therapy with an ACEI and an ARB could be beneficial for treating diabetic nephropathy through its anti‐inflammatory and anti‐oxidative stress effects.
Changes of blood glucose and gastrointestinal hormones 4 months after Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass surgery in Chinese obese type 2 diabetes patients with lower body mass index
Authors: Wu Qianlin , Xiao Zhu , Cheng Zhong , Tian Haoming 
Published: November 2012

AbstractAims/IntroductionThe goal of this study was to evaluate the effect of Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass (RYGB) on hyperglycemia and gastrointestinal hormones in Chinese obese type 2 diabetic patients with body mass index (BMI) between 28 and 35 kg/m2.Materials and MethodsA total of eight obese type 2 diabetes patients with BMI 28–35 kg/m2 who underwent RYGB and 10 obese normal glucose tolerance (NGT) patients with no surgery were identified. BMI and blood glucose on baseline, and 2–4 months postoperative, changes of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1), glucose‐dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), peptide YY (PYY), and oxyntomodulin (OXM) were recorded. Efficacy of RYGB was defined by the percentage of excess weight loss (%EWL) and amelioration of type 2 diabetes.ResultsThe %EWL was 53.00 ± 26.25% in 2 month and 63.65 ± 33.71% in 4 month. Glycated hemoglobin changed from 7.2 ± 1.0% preoperative to 6.2 ± 0.9% in 2 month and 6.3 ± 1.2% in 4 month postoperative. The improvement rate of type 2 diabetes 4 months after RYGB was 83.3%. After surgery, area under the curve (AUC) GLP‐1 120 increased with no significance. AUC PYY 120 changed from 10.37 ± 5.45 pmol/L/min preoperative to 22.19 ± 10.61 pmol/L/min in 2 month and 22.04 ± 7.73 pmol/L/min in 4 month postoperative. Postoperative AUC OXM 120 was also higher than that of the preoperative level. AUC GIP 120 decreased from 13.06 ± 8.45 pg/mL/min preoperative to 8.71 ± 3.28 pg/ml/min in 2 month and 6.88 ± 2.33 pg/mL/min in 4 month postoperative.ConclusionsRoux‐en‐Y gastric bypass has a beneficial effect on weight loss and glucose metabolism in obese type 2 diabetes patients with lower BMI. Postoperative concentrations of GLP‐1, PYY and OXM increased, whereas GIP decreased.
No effect of host–parasite co‐evolution on host range expansion
Authors: Scanlan P. D. , Hall A. R. , Burlinson P. , Preston G. , Buckling A. 
Published: November 2012

AbstractAntagonistic co‐evolution between hosts and parasites (reciprocal selection for resistance and infectivity) is hypothesized to play an important role in host range expansion by selecting for novel infectivity alleles, but tests are lacking. Here, we determine whether experimental co‐evolution between a bacterium (Pseudomonas fluorescens SBW25) and a phage (SBW25Φ2) affects interstrain host range: the ability to infect different strains of P. fluorescens other than SBW25. We identified and tested a genetically and phenotypically diverse suite of co‐evolved phage variants of SBW25Φ2 against both sympatric and allopatric co‐evolving hosts (P. fluorescens SBW25) and a large set of other P. fluorescens strains. Although all co‐evolved phage had a greater host range than the ancestral phage and could differentially infect co‐evolved variants of P. fluorescens SBW25, none could infect any of the alternative P. fluorescens strains. Thus, parasite generalism at one genetic scale does not appear to affect generalism at other scales, suggesting fundamental genetic constraints on parasite adaptation for this virus.
Copper and Manganese Increase Resistance of Clusterbean to Root Rot Caused by Rhizoctonia
Authors: Wadhwa Neha , Joshi Udai Narayan , Gandhi Sudarshan Kumar 
Published: November 2012

AbstractClusterbean seedlings growing in soil inoculated with Rhizoctonia were treated with either 5 or 10 ppm Cu2+ and Mn2+. Soil was inoculated by pretreatment with 250 mg (wet weight) of Rhizoctonia inoculum. A similar set of plants was maintained in uninoculated soil. Root rot incidence of plants treated with Cu2+ 5 ppm, Cu2+ 10 ppm, Mn2+ 5 ppm and Mn2+ 10 ppm was 26.6, 30.5, 11.8 and 29.2% less than the inoculated control, respectively. Inoculation with Rhizoctonia reduced chlorophyll, non‐structural carbohydrate and in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) content compared with uninoculated ones. Oxidative enzymes activities (polyphenol oxidase, peroxidase, phenylalanine ammonia lyase and tyrosine ammonia lyase), crude protein, phenolic content, structural components (acid detergent fibre, cellulose and lignin), silica, macronutrients and micronutrients increased in inoculated seedlings and this increase was further heightened by the Cu2+ 10 ppm treatment compared with the Cu2+ 5 ppm, Mn2+ 5 ppm and Mn2+ 10 ppm treatments in response to fungal invasion. It was concluded that the Cu2+ 10 ppm treatment may be an effective soil nutrient to provide enhanced resistance of clusterbean plants to root rot (fungal) diseases.
Implication of eIF2α kinase GCN2 in induction of apoptosis and endoplasmic reticulum stress-responsive genes by sodium salicylate
Authors: Gentz Solange H L , Bertollo Caryne M , Souza-Fagundes Elaine M , da Silva Aristóbolo Mendes 
Published: November 2012

Abstract

Objectives
Sodium salicylate (NaSal) can disturb cell viability by affecting the activity of multiple cellular molecules. In this work, we investigated the involvement of stress-responsive kinase GCN2 in regulating cell death and expression of stress genes in mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) upon exposure to NaSal.

Methods
Cell viability was assayed using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) method, and apoptosis was evaluated by annexin V and propidium iodide staining. A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) array approach was used to analyse differential expression of a panel of 84 endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-associated genes. Gene reporter assays were carried out to determine activity of ER stress element (ERSE), and the protein levels of activating transcription factor 6 (ATF6) and C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) were determined by western blot.

Key findings
NaSal treatment resulted in reduction of cellular viability and induction of apoptosis in wild-type but not Gcn2−/− cells. Many genes with important functions in protein synthesis/degradation, transcriptional regulation and apoptosis were induced by NaSal and most of these were dependent on GCN2. The activation of ERSE within Ddit3 and the production of CHOP and ATF6 induced by NaSal required GCN2.

Conclusions
Our data provide evidence for the involvement of GCN2 in apoptosis and gene expression triggered by NaSal, and contributes to the understanding of molecular events occurring in NaSal-treated cells.
The pharmacokinetics of maropitant citrate dosed orally to dogs at 2 mg/kg and 8 mg/kg once daily for 14 days consecutive days
Authors: Lesman S. P. , Boucher J. F. , Grover G. S. , Cox S. R. , Bidgood T. L. 
Published: November 2012

The pharmacokinetics of maropitant were evaluated in beagle dogs dosed orally with Cerenia® tablets (Pfizer Animal Health) once daily for 14 consecutive days at either 2 mg/kg or 8 mg/kg bodyweight. Noncompartmental pharmacokinetic analysis was performed on the plasma concentration data to measure the AUC0–24 (after first and last doses), Ct (trough concentration—measured 24 h after each dose), Cmax (after first and last doses), tmax (after first and last doses), λz (terminal disposition rate constant; after last dose), t1/2 (after last dose), and CL/F (oral clearance; after last dose). Maropitant accumulation in plasma was substantially greater after fourteen daily 8 mg/kg doses than after fourteen daily 2 mg/kg doses as reflected in the AUC0–24 accumulation ratio of 4.81 at 8 mg/kg and 2.46 at 2 mg/kg. This is most likely due to previously identified nonlinear pharmacokinetics of maropitant in which high doses (8 mg/kg) saturate the metabolic clearance mechanisms and delay drug elimination. To determine the time to reach steady‐state maropitant plasma levels, a nonlinear model was fit to the least squares (LS) means maropitant Ct values for each treatment group. Based on this model, 90% of steady‐state was determined to occur at approximately four doses for daily 2 mg/kg oral dosing and eight doses for daily 8 mg/kg oral dosing.
Breastfeeding and early brain development: the Generation R study
Authors: Herba Catherine M. , Roza Sabine , Govaert Paul , Hofman Albert , Jaddoe Vincent , Verhulst Frank C. , Tiemeier Henning 
Published: November 2012

AbstractBreastfeeding during infancy is associated with a range of short‐ and long‐term health benefits. We examine whether breastfeeding in the first 2 months of life is associated with structural markers of brain development in infants from the general population. This study was embedded within the Generation R study. Cranial ultrasounds were obtained at approximately 7 weeks post‐natal age. The diameter of the gangliothalamic ovoid, corpus callosum length, ventricular volume and head circumference were measured. Maternal reports of breastfeeding were obtained at 2 months of age. We examined associations in relation to current breastfeeding practices (exclusively breastfed, n = 318, breast‐ and bottle‐fed, n = 119, and bottle‐fed, n = 243). Analyses were adjusted for head size and relevant covariates. Secondary analyses were conducted for breastfeeding history (exclusively breastfed, n = 318, breast‐ and bottle‐fed, n = 281, and never breastfed, n = 81). Exclusive breastfeeding was associated with more optimal brain development compared with babies who were bottle‐fed or never breastfed. Results were most consistent for gangliothalamic ovoid diameter. Larger gangliothalamic ovoid diameters were evident in babies who were exclusively breastfed compared with bottle‐fed babies [difference between means (95% confidence interval) = 0.21(0.02, 0.39), P = 0.02]. Smaller ventricular volume and larger head circumference were also found for exclusively breastfed babies. Breastfeeding was not significantly associated with corpus callosum length. Maternal reports of breastfeeding are associated with more mature brain development within the first 2 months of life. Results are most consistent for gangliothalamic ovoid diameter, a subcortical structure rich in docosahexaenoic acid. Findings also pointed to non‐specific neural developmental advantage for exclusively breastfed babies.
The effects of whey protein on cardiometabolic risk factors
Authors: Pal Sebely , Radavelli‐Bagatini Simone 
Published: November 2012

SummaryObesity has reached epidemic proportions worldwide. The health consequences of obesity are more dangerous when associated with the metabolic syndrome and its components. Studies show that whey protein and its bioactive components can promote greater benefits compared to other protein sources such as egg and casein. The aim of this paper is to review the effects of whey protein on cardiometabolic risk factors. Using PubMed as the database, a review was conducted to identify current scientific literature on whey protein and the components of the metabolic syndrome published between 1970 and 2012. Consumption of whey protein seems to play an anti‐obesity and muscle‐protective role during dieting by increasing thermogenesis and maintaining lean mass. In addition, whey protein has been shown to improve glucose levels and insulin response, promote a reduction in blood pressure and arterial stiffness, and improve lipid profile. The collective view of current scientific literature indicates that the consumption of whey protein may have beneficial effects on some symptoms of the metabolic syndrome as well as a reduction in cardiovascular risk factors.
Moving the agenda forward: a person‐centred framework in long‐term care
Authors: McGilton Katherine S. , Heath Hazel , Chu Charlene H. , Boström Anne‐Marie , Mueller Christine , M. Boscart Veronique , McKenzie‐Green Barbara , Moghabghab Rola , Bowers Barbara 
Published: November 2012

BackgroundInternationally, the role of the registered nurse (RN) in long‐term care (LTC) settings has evolved in response to the demands of governmental and organisational priorities. In stark contrast to the regulatory mandates, a person‐centred care approach in LTC settings would require different outcomes, processes and competencies of the RN.AimsThis article explores the implications of defining the RN's role in delivering person‐centred care in LTC homes.MethodsBased on a review of the literature, we present a framework that can be used to gather evidence on the outcomes, processes of care and competencies required of RNs to lead their teams to person‐centred LTC homes.ResultsThe development of the framework highlighted several issues: (i) current measures of quality in LTC settings focus on health outcomes and avoiding adverse events rather than on resident quality of life and well‐being, which influences the RN's practice; (ii) person‐centred care has emerged as a focus of care, yet measures currently developed are limited, and thus, new outcomes are proposed; (iii) to practice in a person‐centred way, RNs must work through others on their team to ensure that staff truly relate to their residents, tailor approaches based on the remaining abilities of the residents and manipulate environments to match the competence of the individual, while focusing on residents’ personhood and (iv) competencies of RNs to deliver person‐centred care include leadership, facilitation, clinical excellence and critical thinking skills.ConclusionsRNs need to be supported, allowed and encouraged in redesigning their role, to work to their full capacity if they are truly to support person‐centred care in LTC settings.