bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evaluating a multispecies adaptive management framework: must uncertainty impede effective decision‐making?
Authors: Smith David R. , McGowan Conor P. , Daily Jonathan P. , Nichols James D. , Sweka John A. , Lyons James E. 
Published: August 2013

SummaryApplication of adaptive management to complex natural resource systems requires careful evaluation to ensure that the process leads to improved decision‐making. As part of that evaluation, adaptive policies can be compared with alternative nonadaptive management scenarios. Also, the value of reducing structural (ecological) uncertainty to achieving management objectives can be quantified.A multispecies adaptive management framework was recently adopted by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission for sustainable harvest of Delaware Bay horseshoe crabsLimulus polyphemus,while maintaining adequate stopover habitat for migrating red knotsCalidris canutus rufa, the focal shorebird species. The predictive model set encompassed the structural uncertainty in the relationships between horseshoe crab spawning, red knot weight gain and red knot vital rates. Stochastic dynamic programming was used to generate a state‐dependent strategy for harvest decisions given that uncertainty. In this paper, we employed a management strategy evaluation approach to evaluate the performance of this adaptive management framework. Active adaptive management was used by including model weights as state variables in the optimization and reducing structural uncertainty by model weight updating.We found that the value of information for reducing structural uncertainty is expected to be low, because the uncertainty does not appear to impede effective management. Harvest policy responded to abundance levels of both species regardless of uncertainty in the specific relationship that generated those abundances. Thus, the expected horseshoe crab harvest and red knot abundance were similar when the population generating model was uncertain or known, and harvest policy was robust to structural uncertainty as specified.Synthesis and applications. The combination of management strategy evaluation with state‐dependent strategies from stochastic dynamic programming was an informative approach to evaluate adaptive management performance and value of learning. Although natural resource decisions are characterized by uncertainty, not all uncertainty will cause decisions to be altered substantially, as we found in this case. It is important to incorporate uncertainty into the decision framing and evaluate the effect of reducing that uncertainty on achieving the desired outcomes.
Spread of invasive ragweed: climate change, management and how to reduce allergy costs
Authors: Richter Robert , Berger Uwe E. , Dullinger Stefan , Essl Franz , Leitner Michael , Smith Matthew , Vogl Gero 
Published: August 2013

Summary

Ragweed Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. is rapidly spreading in Europe. Its pollen is highly allergenic, with 4–5% of Europeans being sensitized. There is an urgent need to curtail the further spread to minimize allergy costs.

We simulated the spread of ragweed in Austria and southern Germany (Bavaria) until 2050 with particular emphasis on expected climate change. Using different management scenarios and levels of management effort, we analysed the potential for reducing human allergy costs, that is, expenses caused by allergies from ragweed pollen, by curtailing the accelerating spread of ragweed. We accounted for three contrasting climate assumptions: no change in temperature and moderate (annual temperature increase of 0·025 °C) and more extreme (annual temperature increase of 0·04 °C) climate change.

We found that a carefully designed management plan consisting of survey and eradication can drastically reduce the spread of ragweed. Without management, mean allergy costs for the management period (2011–2050) amount to about 290, 335 and 365 million € annually under the three climate change assumptions.

Following an optimally allocated management strategy with an annual budget of 30 million € reduces mean allergy costs by 258, 295 and 325 million € per year. Thus, the management may yield substantial savings, in particular under more extreme warming, where total savings over 40 years amount to about 12 billion €.

Synthesis and applications. Our study illustrates that management of invasive alien species has an economic benefit beside natural conservation. We provide guidance for the future management using the example of ragweed in Austria and Bavaria and show that although the species has expanded its range and abundance substantially in recent years, a well‐designed and ambitious management programme still may yield substantial benefits. This is true for current climatic conditions as well as for future climate change scenarios, albeit management costs increase with a warming climate. However, possible gains are increasing in parallel. Given the scale of impacts on human health, and the substantial gains accrued from management, our results suggest that it is wise to halt further spread of ragweed.
Home Blood Pressure Control After the Great East Japan Earthquake in Patients on Chronic Hemodialysis
Authors: Tanaka Kenichi , Nakayama Masaaki , Kanno Makoto , Kimura Hiroshi , Watanabe Kimio , Tani Yoshihiro , Hayashi Yoshimitsu , Asahi Koichi , Suzuki Kazuhiro , Watanabe Tsuyoshi 
Published: August 2013

AbstractAt 14:46 on 11 March 2011, northeastern Japan was struck by a major earthquake measuring 9.0 on the Richter scale (the Great East Japan Earthquake). Several reports have suggested a transient blood pressure (BP) increase after a major earthquake, but its impact on BP in chronic dialysis patients has not been reported. In a retrospective review of 25 hemodialysis patients who were residents of Koriyama City, changes in the morning home BP after the earthquake were investigated. Home systolic and diastolic BPs were significantly elevated 1 week after the earthquake (158 ± 16 mm Hg vs. 151 ± 13 mm Hg, P < 0.01, for systolic; 81 ± 13 mm Hg vs. 78 ± 11 mm Hg, P = 0.01, for diastolic). Mean home BP 1 week after the earthquake was unchanged from baseline in patients treated with sympatholytics and/or renin‐angiotensin system (RAS) inhibitors. BP values returned to baseline by 4 weeks after the earthquake, but percent changes in mean BP were significantly greater even 2 weeks, 4 weeks, and 6 weeks after the earthquake in patients not treated with RAS inhibitors than in those treated with RAS inhibitors (2 weeks 7.0% ± 4.5% vs. 0.2% ± 5.0%, P < 0.01; 4 weeks 4.4% ± 5.9% vs. −1.8% ± 5.3%, P = 0.02; 6 weeks 4.6% ± 4.9% vs. −1.9% ± 3.9%, P < 0.01). On multiple regression analysis, RAS inhibitor use had an independent relationship with percentage increases in mean BP during the 6 weeks after the earthquake. Home BP was significantly increased after a major earthquake in patients on chronic hemodialysis. Prolonged deterioration of BP control after the earthquake was associated with non‐use of RAS inhibitors.
A new approach for objective identification of turns and steps in organism movement data relevant to random walk modelling
Authors: Humphries Nicolas E. , Weimerskirch Henri , Sims David W. 
Published: August 2013

Summary

A first step in the analysis of complex movement data often involves discretisation of the path into a series of step‐lengths and turns, for example in the analysis of specialised random walks, such as Lévy flights. However, the identification of turning points, and therefore step‐lengths, in a tortuous path is dependent on ad‐hoc parameter choices. Consequently, studies testing for movement patterns in these data, such as Lévy flights, have generated debate. However, studies focusing on one‐dimensional (1D) data, as in the vertical displacements of marine pelagic predators, where turning points can be identified unambiguously have provided strong support for Lévy flight movement patterns.

Here, we investigate how step‐length distributions in 3D movement patterns would be interpreted by tags recording in 1D (i.e. depth) and demonstrate the dimensional symmetry previously shown mathematically for Lévy‐flight movements. We test the veracity of this symmetry by simulating several measurement errors common in empirical datasets and find Lévy patterns and exponents to be robust to low‐quality movement data.

We then consider exponential and composite Brownian random walks and show that these also project into 1D with sufficient symmetry to be clearly identifiable as such.

By extending the symmetry paradigm, we propose a new methodology for step‐length identification in 2D or 3D movement data. The methodology is successfully demonstrated in a re‐analysis of wandering albatross Global Positioning System (GPS) location data previously analysed using a complex methodology to determine bird‐landing locations as turning points in a Lévy walk. For this high‐resolution GPS data, we show that there is strong evidence for albatross foraging patterns approximated by truncated Lévy flights spanning over 3·5 orders of magnitude.

Our simple methodology and freely available software can be used with any 2D or 3D movement data at any scale or resolution and are robust to common empirical measurement errors. The method should find wide applicability in the field of movement ecology spanning the study of motile cells to humans.
Associations of single nucleotide polymorphisms in candidate genes with the polled trait in Datong domestic yaks
Authors: Liu W. B. , Liu J. , Liang C. N. , Guo X. , Bao P. J. , Chu M. , Ding X. Z. , Wang H. B. , Zhu X. S. , Yan P. 
Published: August 2013

SummaryThe domestic yak (Bos grunniens) is an iconic symbol of animal husbandry at high altitudes. Yaks exhibit unique external characteristics including long hair and large horns. However, hornless yaks can be found in different breeds and different populations. The hornless trait is also known as polled, and the POLL locus has been fine‐mapped to chromosome 1 in cattle (Bos taurus), although the underlying genetic basis of the polled trait is still unclear in the yak. Thus, we performed an association study to identify the genetic polymorphisms responsible for the polled trait in the yak. Fifty polled Datong domestic yaks and 51 horned individuals were selected randomly from a huge herd and were used as the case and control groups respectively for the association analysis. Twelve genes located in the candidate region of the POLL locus in cattle were used as references to detect DNA polymorphisms related to yak polledness, which were analyzed by sequencing and a high‐resolution melting test. We applied Fisher's exact test and haplotype analysis to show that a 147‐kb segment that included three protein‐coding genes C1H21orf62, GCFC1 and SYNJ1 was the most likely location of the POLL mutation in domestic yaks.
In Vitro Hydrodynamic Analysis of Pin and Cone Bearing Designs of the Jarvik 2000 Adult Ventricular Assist Device
Authors: Stanfield J. Ryan , Selzman Craig H. 
Published: August 2013

AbstractThe Jarvik 2000 adult ventricular assist device (VAD) is a second‐generation blood pump with mechanical contact bearings. The original configuration of the pump employed a pin bearing and a more recent configuration uses a cone bearing. We compare the hydrodynamic performance of the two designs under steady‐state and pulsatile flow conditions in vitro. Furthermore, we employ the Intermittent Low Speed (ILS) Flowmaker Controller to demonstrate the effect on pulsatility index (PI) performance of both device configurations. We use an open‐loop flow system in both steady‐state and pulsatile arrangements, complete with pressure transducers and flow probes. Working fluid was a 3.6 cP blood‐analog, glycerin‐water solution. Steady‐state flow tests were carried out to determine pressure‐flow (H‐Q) performance curves. Pulsatile tests under normotensive, hypertensive, and hypotensive conditions were executed with controller speed 3 (10 710 ± 250 rpm) at 100 beats per minute. Steady‐state tests show greater capacity for pressure and flow with the cone bearing, compared with pin bearing, with best efficiency point (BEP) 68% greater for cone bearing. Pulsatile tests show the cone bearing design to yield a 20% increase in Qavg, a 17% decrease in pulsatility index (PIQ), and a qualitative increase in pressure responsivity. The ILS mode (for both bearing designs) decreases Qavg by 68% and likewise increases PIQ by 360% and pulsatility ratio (Rpul) by 200%. The ILS controller regularly reduces the flow, increasing pulsatility index during device operation. The Jarvik 2000 continuous‐flow VAD can sustain pulsatile flow under pulsating pressure conditions. The new cone bearing design yields increased flow rates over the earlier pin bearing design.
Functionally biased signalling properties of 7TM receptors – opportunities for drug development for the ghrelin receptor
Authors: Sivertsen B , Holliday N , Madsen A N , Holst B 
Published: August 2013

The ghrelin receptor is a 7 transmembrane (7TM) receptor involved in a variety of physiological functions including growth hormone secretion, increased food intake and fat accumulation as well as modulation of reward and cognitive functions. Because of its important role in metabolism and energy expenditure, the ghrelin receptor has become an important therapeutic target for drug design and the development of anti‐obesity compounds. However, none of the compounds developed so far have been approved for commercial use. Interestingly, the ghrelin receptor is able to signal through several different signalling pathways including Gαq, Gαi/o, Gα12/13 and arrestin recruitment. These multiple signalling pathways allow for functionally biased signalling, where one signalling pathway may be favoured over another either by selective ligands or through mutations in the receptor. In the present review, we have described how ligands and mutations in the 7TM receptor may bias the receptors to favour either one G‐protein over another or to promote G‐protein independent signalling pathways rather than G–protein‐dependent pathways. For the ghrelin receptor, both agonist and inverse agonists have been demonstrated to signal more strongly through the Gαq‐coupled pathway than the Gα12/13‐coupled pathway. Similarly a ligand that promotes Gαq coupling over Gαi coupling has been described and it has been suggested that several different active conformations of the receptor may exist dependent on the properties of the agonist. Importantly, ligands with such biased signalling properties may allow the development of drugs that selectively modulate only the therapeutically relevant physiological functions, thereby decreasing the risk of side effects.Linked ArticlesThis article is part of a themed section on Neuropeptides. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2013.170.issue‐7
Pharmacogenomics, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics: interaction with biological differences between men and women
Authors: Franconi Flavia , Campesi Ilaria 
Published: August 2013

Pharmacological response depends on multiple factors and one of them is sex–gender. Data on the specific effects of sex–gender on pharmacokinetics, as well as the safety and efficacy of numerous medications, are beginning to emerge. Nevertheless, the recruitment of women for clinical research is inadequate, especially during the first phases. In general, pharmacokinetic differences between males and females are more numerous and consistent than disparities in pharmacodynamics. However, sex–gender pharmacodynamic differences are now increasingly being identified at the molecular level. It is now even becoming apparent that sex–gender influences pharmacogenomics and pharmacogenetics. Sex‐related differences have been reported for several parameters, and it is consistently shown that women have a worse safety profile, with drug adverse reactions being more frequent and severe in women than in men. Overall, the pharmacological status of women is less well studied than that of men and deserves much more attention. The design of clinical and preclinical studies should have a sex–gender‐based approach with the aim of tailoring therapies to an individual's needs and concerns.Linked ArticlesThis article is part of a themed section on Biological Sex and Cardiovascular Pharmacology. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2014.171.issue‐3
Lethal interactions among vertebrate top predators: a review of concepts, assumptions and terminology
Authors: Lourenço Rui , Penteriani Vincenzo , Rabaça João E. , Korpimäki Erkki 
Published: August 2013

ABSTRACTLethal interactions among large vertebrate predators have long interested researchers because of ecological and conservation issues. Research focusing on lethal interactions among vertebrate top predators has used several terms with a broad sense, and also introduced new terminology. We analysed the published literature with reference to the main underlying concepts and the use of terminology and its ecological context. The most frequently used terms in the literature were ‘predation’, ‘intraguild predation’, ‘interference competition’, and ‘interspecific killing’. Most studies presented evidence of the killing of the victim (77%), but information regarding its consumption was not given in 48% of cases. More than half of the analysed studies (56%) had no solid information on the degree of competition between interacting species. By reviewing definitions and their underlying assumptions, we demonstrate that lethal interactions among large vertebrate predators could be designated using four terms—‘predation’, ‘intraguild predation’, ‘interspecific competitive killing’, and ‘superpredation’—without the need to employ additional terminology that may increase confusion and misuse. For a correct framework of these lethal interactions it is critical to assess if the kill is consumed, if the victim is indeed a competitor of the killer, and if the prey is a high‐order predator. However, these elements of the framework are simultaneously the most common constraints to studies of lethal interactions, since they often require a great effort to obtain. The proper use of terms and concepts is fundamental to understanding the causes behind lethal interactions and, ultimately, what is actually happening in these complex interactions.
Planned Missing Data Designs for Developmental Researchers
Authors: Little Todd D. , Rhemtulla Mijke 
Published: August 2013

AbstractPlanned missing data designs allow researchers to collect incomplete data from participants by randomly assigning participants to have missing items on a survey (multiform designs) or missing measurement occasions in a longitudinal design (wave missing designs) or by administering an intensive measure to a small subsample of a larger dataset (two‐method measurement designs). When these designs are implemented correctly and when missingness is dealt with using a modern approach, the cost of data collection is lowered (sometimes dramatically) and reduced participant burden may result in higher validity as well as lower rates of unplanned missing data. In reviewing these planned missing designs, we briefly describe results of ongoing research on bias and power associated with each.
Anti-CD40 ligand monoclonal antibody delays the progression of murine autoimmune cholangitis
Authors: Tanaka H , Yang G-X , Iwakoshi N , Knechtle S J , Kawata K , Tsuneyama K , Leung P , Coppel R L , Ansari A A , Joh T , Bowlus C , Gershwin M E 
Published: August 2013

SummaryWhile there have been significant advances in our understanding of the autoimmune responses and the molecular nature of the target autoantigens in primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC), unfortunately these data have yet to be translated into new therapeutic agents. We have taken advantage of a unique murine model of autoimmune cholangitis in which mice expressing a dominant negative form of transforming growth factor β receptor II (dnTGFβRII), under the control of the CD4 promoter, develop an intense autoimmune cholangitis associated with serological features similar to human PBC. CD40-CD40 ligand (CD40L) is a major receptor–ligand pair that provides key signals between cells of the adaptive immune system, prompting us to determine the therapeutic potential of treating autoimmune cholangitis with anti-CD40L antibody (anti-CD40L; MR-1). Four-week-old dnTGFβRII mice were injected intraperitoneally with either anti-CD40L or control immunoglobulin (Ig)G at days 0, 2, 4 and 7 and then weekly until 12 or 24 weeks of age and monitored for the progress of serological and histological features of PBC, including rigorous definition of liver cellular infiltrates and cytokine production. Administration of anti-CD40L reduced liver inflammation significantly to 12 weeks of age. In addition, anti-CD40L initially lowered the levels of anti-mitochondrial autoantibodies (AMA), but these reductions were not sustained. These data indicate that anti-CD40L delays autoimmune cholangitis, but the effect wanes over time. Further dissection of the mechanisms involved, and defining the events that lead to the reduction in therapeutic effectiveness will be critical to determining whether such efforts can be applied to PBC.
An oral multiparticulate, modified‐release, hydrocortisone replacement therapy that provides physiological cortisol exposure
Authors: Whitaker Martin J. , Debono Miguel , Huatan Hiep , Merke Deborah P. , Arlt Wiebke , Ross Richard J. 
Published: August 2013

SummaryObjectiveIt is not possible with current hydrocortisone replacement to mimic the diurnal cortisol profile in patients with adrenal insufficiency. Previous attempts with modified‐release technology were unsuccessful. Our objective was to develop hydrocortisone formulations that recreate the diurnal cortisol profile using multiparticulate technology.Design and MeasurementsScreening by in vitro dissolution profiles, pharmacokinetic (PK) testing in dexamethasone‐suppressed dogs and humans, and comparison with a reference population.SettingField laboratories and clinical research facility.ResultsFormulations were generated using an enteric (delayed release) design configuration with an extended (sustained release) dissolution profile. In vitro dissolution confirmed delayed and sustained hydrocortisone release. However, in dogs and humans, sustained release resulted in reduced bioavailability. A formulation, DIURF‐006, was developed that maintained delayed release but omitted the sustained‐release functionality. PK characterization of DIURF‐006 showed that, despite absence of a sustained‐release component, absorption was sufficiently sustained to deliver extended hydrocortisone absorption. In dexamethasone‐suppressed volunteers (n = 16) receiving a twice‐daily ‘toothbrush’ regimen (20 mg at 23:00 h and 10 mg at 07:00 h), DIURF‐006 gave a similar cortisol profile to physiological cortisol levels: DIURF‐006 vs physiological, Geomean AUC 5610 vs 4706 h * nmol/l, Geomean Cmax 665 vs 594 nmol/l and Median Tmax 8·5 h vs clock time 08:12 h for peak cortisol. The relative bioavailability of DIURF‐006 vs hydrocortisone was 89%, and cortisol levels increased linearly with doses between 5 and 30 mg.ConclusionA multiparticulate oral hydrocortisone formulation with only an enteric coat provides delayed and sustained absorption and when given in a ‘toothbrush’ regimen provides physiological cortisol exposure.