bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
No general soil carbon sequestration under Central European short rotation coppices
Authors: Walter Katja , Don Axel , Flessa Heinz 
Published: February 2014

AbstractWood from short rotation coppices (SRCs) is discussed as bioenergy feedstock with good climate mitigation potential inter alia because soil organic carbon (SOC) might be sequestered by a land‐use change (LUC) from cropland to SRC. To test if SOC is generally enhanced by SRC over the long term, we selected the oldest Central European SRC plantations for this study. Following the paired plot approach soils of the 21 SRCs were sampled to 80 cm depth and SOC stocks, C/N ratios, pH and bulk densities were compared to those of adjacent croplands or grasslands. There was no general trend to SOC stock change by SRC establishment on cropland or grassland, but differences were very site specific. The depth distribution of SOC did change. Compared to cropland soils, the SOC density in 0–10 cm was significantly higher under SRC (17 ± 2 in cropland and 21 ± 2 kg C m−3 in SRC). Under SRC established on grassland SOC density in 0–10 cm was significantly lower than under grassland. The change rates of total SOC stocks by LUC from cropland to SRC ranged from −1.3 to 1.4 Mg C ha−1 yr−1 and −0.6 Mg C ha−1 yr−1 to +0.1 Mg C ha−1 yr−1 for LUC from grassland to SRC, respectively. The accumulation of organic carbon in the litter layer was low (0.14 ± 0.08 Mg C ha−1 yr−1). SOC stocks of both cropland and SRC soils were correlated with the clay content. No correlation could be detected between SOC stock change and soil texture or other abiotic factors. In summary, we found no evidence of any general SOC stock change when cropland is converted to SRC and the identification of the factors determining whether carbon may be sequestered under SRC remains a major challenge.
Extinctions and the loss of ecological function in island bird communities
Authors: Boyer Alison G. , Jetz Walter 
Published: February 2014

AbstractAimBecause of the negative impact that ongoing biodiversity loss may have on ecosystem properties that are critical for humans, understanding the relationship between extinction and functional diversity over time is of critical importance for conservation. However, empirical evidence concerning the sensitivity of vertebrate community function to species loss is very limited. Here we assess documented prehistoric and historic extinctions of birds on Pacific islands in an effort to quantify the consequences of extinctions for functional structure and diversity in natural communities over broad spatial scales.LocationForty‐four islands from across the Pacific.MethodsWe estimated functional aspects of island bird communities before and after Holocene extinctions based on body size, foraging niche, diet and activity period. We used four separate metrics to measure ecological function: functional diversity (FD), functional richness (FRic), functional evenness and functional divergence. We employed null models to separate the effects of observed extinctions from changes expected due to declining species richness.ResultsWe find that Holocene bird extinctions led to substantial changes in community‐level functional diversity. Observed declines in FD and FRic were predictable from the pre‐extinction composition of communities, and did not differ from null model expectations. Across all islands, we observed non‐random changes in functional trait composition, with shifts away from ground‐level foraging, granivory and herbivory after extinctions. Extinctions have resulted in the loss of up to 80% of original functional diversity on some islands and caused a sharp decrease in the variety of ecological functions provided by birds.Main conclusionsOur findings illustrate the significant losses of functional diversity that are already taking place on many islands and demonstrate its close connection with the loss of species. Accounting for the functional roles of species allows a more integrative understanding of ecological function and helps to bridge species and ecosystem perspectives in conservation science.
Bootstrap Calibration and Uncertainty Estimation of Downhole NMR Hydraulic Conductivity Estimates in an Unconsolidated Aquifer
Authors: Parsekian A.D. , Dlubac K. , Grunewald E. , Butler J.J. , Knight R. , Walsh D.O. 
Published: February 2014

AbstractCharacterization of hydraulic conductivity (K) in aquifers is critical for evaluation, management, and remediation of groundwater resources. While estimates of K have been traditionally obtained using hydraulic tests over discrete intervals in wells, geophysical measurements are emerging as an alternative way to estimate this parameter. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) logging, a technology once largely applied to characterization of deep consolidated rock petroleum reservoirs, is beginning to see use in near‐surface unconsolidated aquifers. Using a well‐known rock physics relationship—the Schlumberger Doll Research (SDR) equation—K and porosity can be estimated from NMR water content and relaxation time. Calibration of SDR parameters is necessary for this transformation because NMR relaxation properties are, in part, a function of magnetic mineralization and pore space geometry, which are locally variable quantities. Here, we present a statistically based method for calibrating SDR parameters that establishes a range for the estimated parameters and simultaneously estimates the uncertainty of the resulting K values. We used co‐located logging NMR and direct K measurements in an unconsolidated fluvial aquifer in Lawrence, Kansas, USA to demonstrate that K can be estimated using logging NMR to a similar level of uncertainty as with traditional direct hydraulic measurements in unconsolidated sediments under field conditions. Results of this study provide a benchmark for future calibrations of NMR to obtain K in unconsolidated sediments and suggest a method for evaluating uncertainty in both K and SDR parameter values.
Reactive Oxygen Species Induce Procalcitonin Expression in Trigeminal Ganglia Glia
Authors: Raddant Ann C. , Russo Andrew F. 
Published: February 2014

ObjectiveTo examine calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) gene expression under inflammatory conditions using trigeminal ganglia organ cultures as an experimental system. These cultures have increased proinflammatory signaling that may mimic neurogenic inflammation in the migraine state.BackgroundThe trigeminal nerve sends peripheral pain signals to the central nervous system during migraine. Understanding the dynamic processes that occur within the trigeminal nerve and ganglion may provide insights into events that contribute to migraine pain. A neuropeptide of particular interest is CGRP, which can be elevated and play a causal role in migraine. However, most studies have overlooked a second splice product of the Calca gene that encodes calcitonin (CT), a peptide hormone involved in calcium homeostasis. Importantly, a precursor form of CT called procalcitonin (proCT) can act as a partial agonist at the CGRP receptor and elevated proCT has recently been reported during migraine.MethodsWe used a trigeminal ganglion whole organ explant model, which has previously been demonstrated to induce pro‐inflammatory agents in vitro. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry were used to evaluate changes in messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) and protein levels of CGRP and proCT.ResultsWhole mouse trigeminal ganglia cultured for 24 hours showed a 10‐fold increase in CT mRNA, with no change in CGRP mRNA. A similar effect was observed in ganglia from adult rats. ProCT immunoreactivity was localized in glial cells. Cutting the tissue blunted the increase in CT, suggesting that induction required the close environment of the intact ganglia. Consistent with this prediction, there were increased reactive oxygen species in the ganglia, and the elevated CT mRNA was reduced by antioxidant treatment. Surprisingly, reactive oxygen species were increased in neurons, not glia.ConclusionsThese results demonstrate that reactive oxygen species can activate proCT expression from the CGRP gene in trigeminal glia by a paracrine regulatory mechanism. We propose that this glial recruitment pathway may occur following cortical spreading depression and neurogenic inflammation to increase CGRP nociceptive actions in migraine.
Characteristic differences in barrier and hygroscopic properties between normal and cosmetic dry skin. II. Depth profile of natural moisturizing factor and cohesivity
Authors: Feng L. , Chandar P. , Lu N. , Vincent C. , Bajor J. , McGuiness H. 
Published: February 2014

SynopsisObjectiveIn a previous paper (Lu et al., International Journal of Cosmetic Science, in press), we reported that in comparison with normal skin, cosmetic dry skin characteristically has a thicker stratum corneum (SC) with weaker barrier quality. Our goal here was to obtain a more complete picture of the difference between normal and cosmetic dry skin, by further analysing the data collected from the same clinical study to address two additional aspects of skin: the amount and depth profile of natural moisturizing factor (NMF) and the cohesivity of the SC.MethodThe SC samples were collected by sequential tape stripping in a clinical study consisting of 64 healthy Caucasian female subjects with either normal or cosmetic dry skin. Protein and free amino acids (FAA) on tape strips were extracted and analysed using high‐throughput methods. The level of pyrrolidone carboxylic acid (PCA), the prominent component of NMF, was detected using HPLC analysis.ResultsIt was found that dry skin had significantly lower ratios of FAA/protein and PCA/protein across the stripped SC depth, corresponding to a lower hydration level compared with the normal skin. Our results indicated that filaggrin to FAA hydrolysis occurred deeper in dry skin and at a lower level compared with normal skin. In addition, the mass of proteins stripped from dry skin subjects was significantly higher than that from the normal skin counterpart, especially for the first 10–12 tape strips.ConclusionOur results showed that, compared with normal skin, cosmetic dry skin had a lower NMF level across the SC depth and a lower cohesivity. Such results suggested that NMF levels are critical for cosmetic skin conditions, and lower NMF production may be associated with dry skin. In addition, the NMF level and its depth profile and the SC cohesivity are useful clinical end points for assessing the efficacy of dry skin treatments such as skin moisturizers.
Surgical Treatment of 4 Horses for Cryptorchidism Caused by Failure of Regression of the Cranial Suspensory Ligament of the Testis
Authors: Ortved Kyla F. , Stewart Allison Worster , Fubini Susan L. , Hackett Richard P. 
Published: February 2014

ObjectiveTo report surgical management of 4 horses with cryptorchidism caused by failure of regression of the cranial suspensory ligament (CSL).Study DesignRetrospective case series.AnimalsCryptorchid horses (n = 4).MethodsHorses with unilateral or bilateral cryptorchidism caused by failure of regression of the CSL were treated by removing the retained testes through a standing laparoscopic approach (2), flank laparotomy (1), or paramedian celiotomy (1). After identification of the retained testis attached to the caudal pole of the kidney by the CSL, the vascular pedicle and ductus deferens were ligated and removed.ResultsTwo horses had bilateral cryptorchidism and 2 horses had unilateral cryptorchidism. Standing laparoscopic cryptorchidectomy was performed successfully in 2 horses and in 2, the retained testes were removed using a flank or paramedian celiotomy. All testes were located in the dorsal aspect of the abdomen just caudal to the kidney and had a well‐developed CSL. All horses recovered successfully from surgery.ConclusionsFailure of regression of the CSL is an uncommon cause of cryptorchidism in horses; however, affected horses can be treated using surgical approaches that facilitate exploration of the dorsocaudal aspect of the abdomen.
Relationship Between Mechanical Thresholds and Limb Use in Dogs With Coxofemoral Joint OA‐Associated Pain and the Modulating Effects of Pain Alleviation From Total Hip Replacement on Mechanical Thresholds
Authors: Tomas Andrea , Marcellin‐Little Denis J. , Roe Simon C. , Motsinger‐Reif Alison , Lascelles B. Duncan X. 
Published: February 2014

ObjectivesTo compare von Frey mechanical quantitative sensory thresholds (mQSTvF) between pelvic limbs in dogs before unilateral total hip replacement (THR) surgery; to correlate ground reaction forces (GRF) with mQSTvF; to assess changes in mQSTvF after THR surgery.Study DesignProspective clinical study.AnimalsDogs (n = 44).MethodsmQSTvF and GRF measured using a pressure sensitive walkway were evaluated before, and 3, 6, and 12 months after, unilateral THR. Measurements were recorded from the affected (operated) pelvic limb (APL) and the non‐operated pelvic limb (NPL). Random effects analysis and forwards stepwise linear regression models were used to evaluate the influence of time since surgery and patient factors on mQSTvF thresholds.ResultsThere were no significant correlations between mQSTvF data and age, bodyweight or the GRF variables. Preoperative mQSTvF measured at the APL and NPL did not differ (P = .909). mQSTvF thresholds increased significantly after 12 months in NPL (P = .047) and APL (P = .001). In addition to time, APL mQSTvF values were significantly affected by sex (higher in males, P = .010) and body condition score (higher in leaner dogs, P = .035) and NPL mQSTvF values by sex (P = .038).ConclusionSuccessful unilateral THR results in decreased central sensitization after 12 months.
Internal Fixation of Severe Maxillofacial Fractures in Dogs
Authors: Arzi Boaz , Verstraete Frank J.M. 
Published: February 2014

ObjectiveTo describe internal fixation for maxillofacial fractures using titanium miniplates and report outcome in 7 dogs.Study designProspective case series.AnimalsSkeletally mature dogs (n = 7) with maxillofacial fractures.MethodsAfter CT evaluation of fracture configuration, using a combination of extraoral and intraoral approaches as needed, non‐locking titanium miniplates were contoured to match the normal anatomy of the fractured bones. Plates were secured using non‐locking titanium screws and then covered with a soft‐tissue envelope followed by routine intraoral and extraoral closure.ResultsFractures healed rapidly after reconstruction with immediate return to normal function and occlusion. Follow‐up time of up to 94 months indicated excellent long‐term function and general lack of complications. One dog developed nasal aspergillosis 1.5 years after surgery and the miniplates were removed without adverse consequences.ConclusionInternal fixation for maxillofacial reconstruction using titanium miniplates is an excellent solution for the treatment of comminuted and displaced maxillofacial fractures in dogs.
Regulatory non‐coding transcripts in spermatogenesis: shedding light on ‘dark matter’
Authors: Mukherjee A. , Koli S. , Reddy K. V. R. 
Published: February 2014

SummaryGlobal rise in male infertility over the past decades as a result of falling sperm count and quality has been pointed out by different investigations. Therefore, it is important to understand the molecular mechanism of spermatogenesis and its regulation. Mammalian spermatogenesis, a streamlined process through which male germline cells divide and differentiate into mature spermatozoa, is strictly regulated by phase‐specific gene expression which, in turn, is controlled by myriads of regulatory non‐coding RNAs (ncRNAs). Rapid advancement in genome mining technologies has identified role of ncRNAs including microRNAs, PIWI‐interacting RNAs, endogenous small‐interfering RNAs and long non‐coding RNAs as controller of gene expression at transcriptional as well as post‐transcriptional level in different biological context and disease processes. Here, we discuss the recent progress in our understanding about the involvement of these molecules in spermatogenesis. In addition, we describe here the possible roles of long non‐coding RNAs in controlling this process which is not delved so far.
Intentionality, anger, coping, and ego defensiveness in reactive aggressive driving
Authors: Vallières Evelyne F. , Vallerand Robert J. , Bergeron Jacques , McDuff Pierre 
Published: February 2014

AbstractA motivational sequence was used as a theoretical framework for studying reactive aggressive driving. Study 1 tested the validity of the sequence “perceived intentionality‐anger‐reactive aggressive driving” and assessed the impact of coping on anger and reactive aggressive driving. The ecological validity of the same sequence was verified in Study 2 with a large sample of adult drivers, while examining the role of ego defensiveness as a determinant of anger and aggressive driving. Study 1 showed the proposed sequence was supported and that coping strategies intervened at both anger and reaction levels, depending if the situation was perceived as intentional or not. Study 2 showed that anger mediated the impact of coping and ego defensiveness on driving aggression. Sobel tests confirmed the anger mediation effect in both studies.
The contributions of interpersonal attachment and friendship group identification to depressive symptoms in a nonclinical sample
Authors: Rosenthal Harriet E. S. , Somers Nadia , Fleming Piers , Walsh Judi 
Published: February 2014

AbstractDrawing on previous literature from the separate areas of adult attachment and group processes, we explored attachment and group identification as predictors for depressive symptoms in a nonclinical sample. We found that attachment anxiety and friendship group identification predicted scores on the Beck Depression Inventory, such that higher attachment anxiety resulted in higher depressive symptoms, and greater friendship group identification resulted in lower depressive symptoms. Mediational analysis suggested that group identification partially mediated the effect of attachment avoidance on depressive symptoms, but did not mediate the effect of attachment anxiety on depressive symptoms.
Postprandial C‐peptide to glucose ratio as a predictor of β‐cell function and its usefulness for staged management of type 2 diabetes
Authors: Lee Eun Young , Hwang Sena , Lee Seo Hee , Lee Yong‐ho , Choi A Ra , Lee Youngki , Lee Byung‐Wan , Kang Eun Seok , Ahn Chul Woo , Cha Bong Soo , Lee Hyun Chul 
Published: February 2014

AbstractAims/IntroductionType 2 diabetes is characterized by progressive deterioration of β‐cell function. Recently, it was suggested that the C‐peptide‐to‐glucose ratio after oral glucose ingestion is a better predictor of β‐cell mass than that during fasting. We investigated whether postprandial C‐peptide‐to‐glucose ratio (PCGR) reflects β‐cell function, and its clinical application for management of type 2 diabetes.Materials and MethodsWe carried out a two‐step retrospective study of 919 Korean participants with type 2 diabetes. In the first step, we evaluated the correlation of PCGR level with various markers for β‐cell function in newly diagnosed and drug‐naïve patients after a mixed meal test. In the second step, participants with well‐controlled diabetes (glycated hemoglobin <7%) were divided into four groups according to treatment modality (group I: insulin, group II: sulfonylurea and/or dipeptityl peptidase IV inhibitor, group III: metformin and/or thiazolidinedione and group IV: diet and exercise group).ResultsIn the first step, PCGR was significantly correlated with various insulin secretory indices. Furthermore, PCGR showed better correlation with glycemic indices than homeostatic model assessment of β‐cell function (HOMA‐β). In the second step, the PCGR value significantly increased according to the following order: group I, II, III, and IV after adjusting for age, sex, body mass index and duration of diabetes. The cut‐off values of PCGR for separating each group were 1.457, 2.870 and 3.790, respectively (P < 0.001).ConclusionsWe suggest that PCGR might be a useful marker for β‐cell function and an ancillary parameter in the choice of antidiabetic medication in type 2 diabetes.
Comparison of four cardiovascular risk prediction functions among Chinese patients with diabetes mellitus in the primary care setting
Authors: Jiao Fang Fang , Lam Cindy Lo Kuen , Fung Colman , McGhee Sarah Morag 
Published: February 2014

AbstractAims/IntroductionTo assess the feasibility, convergent validity and sensitivity of four cardiovascular risk prediction functions in Chinese diabetic patients in the primary care setting.Materials and MethodsA cross‐sectional study of 1,140 diabetic patients was carried out to compare four cardiovascular risk functions, which were respectively developed from the Framingham heart study, the USA–People's Republic of China Collaborative Study of Cardiovascular and Cardiopulmonary Epidemiology cohort (PRC), the United Kingdom Prospective Diabetes Study (UKPDS) and the Joint Asia Diabetes Evaluation program (JADE). Feasibility was assessed by the percentage of patients with complete data for risk prediction. Convergent validity was measured by Spearman's rank correlation, paired Wilcoxon signed‐rank sum test and Bland–Altman plots. Effect size differences between clinical risk groups were used to assess the sensitivity.ResultsRisk prediction was feasible by the Framingham, UKPDS and PRC risk functions in more than 98% patients, whereas just 74% of patients had complete data for the JADE function. The annual total coronary heart disease (CHD) risk predicted by the JADE and the UKPDS functions showed excellent agreement with no significant difference, and a correlation of 0.8048. The Framingham and the PRC functions predicted significantly lower CHD risk than those by the UKPDS and the JADE functions. The UKPDS and the Framingham functions were more sensitive in differentiating clinical risk groups.ConclusionsThe UKPDS risk engine showed good feasibility, convergent validity and sensitivity in predicting CHD risk in Chinese diabetic patients. The JADE function showed excellent agreement with the UKPDS risk engine, but it was less feasible in the primary care setting.
Application of a health‐related quality of life conceptual model in community‐dwelling older Chinese people with diabetes to understand the relationships among clinical and psychological outcomes
Authors: Shiu Ann Tak Ying , Choi Kai Chow , Lee Diana Tze Fan , Yu Doris Sau Fung , Man Ng Wai 
Published: February 2014

AbstractAims/IntroductionThe present study applied the Wilson–Cleary model of health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) by using the structural equation modeling (SEM) approach to understand the interrelationships among clinical, sociodemographic and psychological characteristics in older people with diabetes.Materials and MethodsThis was a cross‐sectional study with 452 Chinese older people with diabetes recruited from three primary care clinics. A series of assessments were made, including four instruments: the Chinese version of the Short Form 36 Health Survey, Older American Resources and Services Multidimensional Functional Assessment Questionnaire, Rand Mental Health Inventory and Medical Outcomes Study Social Support Survey; and clinical outcomes (diabetes‐related characteristics and physiological data).ResultsIn the present study, we identified six patient individual and environmental characteristics, namely, age, sex, physical activity, psychological distress, social support and adequacy of income, that significantly influence HRQOL directly or by way of physical functional status and general health perception.ConclusionsImproving social and financial support as well as providing interventions to promote physical activity and to cope with psychological distress in this patient population might be effective to eventually enhance their HRQOL. The present findings add to the literature the underlying complex biological and psychological processes of HRQOL, and take the body of knowledge in HRQOL of older people with diabetes to a theoretical level, and provide insights for development of appropriate strategies to optimize their HRQOL.