bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Combined effects of fragmentation and herbivory on Posidonia oceanica seagrass ecosystems
Authors: Gera Alessandro , Pagès Jordi F. , Romero Javier , Alcoverro Teresa 
Published: June 2013

Summary

Fragmentation is a major agent for seagrass meadow decline, yet little is known about how it interacts with processes like herbivory, an important functional driver of seagrass meadows. The interaction with external stressors like fragmentation could exacerbate the effects of internal ecosystem drivers like herbivory, with distinct implications for ecosystem management.

We used manipulative field experiments to assess these interactive effects in two Posidonia oceanica seagrass meadows. We monitored replicated plots in small and large patches in two meadows suffering fragmentation with and without herbivores (using exclusion cages) to test whether fragment size and herbivory could act together to alter ecosystem functioning. We measured changes in defoliation rates, primary production, canopy height and nutrient content in all plots after 4 months of herbivore exclusion.

Our results show that herbivores increased defoliation rates resulting in reduced primary production, nutrient content and canopy structure (canopy height). Patch size (fragment) on its own also reduced primary production, nutrient content and canopy structure. We also observed significant additive interactions between herbivores and fragmentation on canopy structure and production responses. In addition, small patches showed nutrient limitation but were able to accumulate more carbohydrate reserves, probably due to a higher light availability. This may explain why small patches can persist under significant herbivore pressure.

Synthesis. While fragmentation has already been identified as an important external agent of seagrass decline, the combination of fragmentation and herbivory can seriously exacerbate structural losses and affect primary production, profoundly compromising the role of seagrasses as habitat‐forming ecosystems. These interactions between external stressors and internal drivers may result in large unexpected consequences that may flow on to the rest of the ecosystem.
Protective arms of the renin–angiotensin‐system in neurological disease
Authors: Sumners Colin , Horiuchi Masatsugu , Widdop Robert E , McCarthy Claudia , Unger Thomas , Steckelings Ulrike M 
Published: June 2013

Summary

In recent years it has been firmly established that apart from the classic renin–angiotensin system (RAS) comprising angiotensin (Ang) II, angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE; responsible for AngII generation) and the angiotensin AT1 receptor (AT1R), there also exist protective arms of the RAS that comprise the angiotensin AT2 receptor (AT2R), Ang‐(1–7), ACE2 (mainly responsible for Ang‐(1–7) synthesis) and Mas, the receptor for Ang‐(1–7).

Stimulation of AT2R promotes neuronal differentiation, neurite outgrowth and axonal regeneration, which results in an acceleration of repair and improved functional outcome after injury of peripheral nerves or the spinal cord.

Stimulation of AT2R and the receptor Mas has been shown to reduce infarct size and ameliorate neurological deficits in various animal models of stroke. The underlying mechanisms of action are comprised of activation of direct neurotrophic, anti‐inflammatory and anti‐oxidant pathways, as well as the augmentation of cerebral blood flow.

Cognitive function is improved by AT2R stimulation due, at least in part, to increased cerebral blood flow. There is indirect evidence that Ang‐(1–7) could also play a role in protection against cognitive decline, but studies confirming this have not yet been published.

In view of the data reviewed in this article, it can be assumed that the protective arms of the RAS are putative targets in the treatment of neurological diseases, which involve tissue damage or cognitive impairment.
Genetic risk of suicidal behavior in bipolar spectrum disorder: analysis of 737 pedigrees
Authors: Manchia Mirko , Hajek Tomas , O'Donovan Claire , Deiana Valeria , Chillotti Caterina , Ruzickova Martina , Del Zompo Maria , Alda Martin 
Published: June 2013

ObjectivesSuicide is a significant cause of mortality in patients with major affective disorders (MAD), and suicidal behavior andMADco‐aggregate in families. However, the transmission of suicidal behavior is partially independent from that ofMAD. We analyzed the lifetime prevalence of completed and attempted suicides in a large sample of families with bipolar disorder (BD), its relation to family history ofMADandBD, and the contribution of clinical and treatment factors to the risk of suicidal behavior.MethodsWe studied 737 families of probands withMADwith 4919 first‐degree relatives (818 affected, 3948 unaffected, and 153 subjects with no information available). Lifetime psychiatric diagnoses and suicidal behavior in first‐degree relatives were assessed using semi‐structured interviews, family history methods, and reviews of clinical records. Cox proportional hazard and logistic regression models were used to investigate the role of clinical covariates in the risk of suicidal behavior, and in the prevalence ofMADandBD.ResultsThe estimated lifetime prevalence of suicidal behavior (attempted and completed suicides) in 737 probands was 38.4 ± 3.0%. Lithium treatment decreased suicide risk in probands (p = 0.007). In first‐degree relatives, a family history of suicidal behavior contributed significantly to the joint risk ofMADand suicidal behavior (p = 0.0006).ConclusionsThe liability to suicidal behavior is influenced by genetic factors (particularly family history of suicidal behavior andMAD). Even in the presence of high genetic risk for suicidal behavior, lithium treatment decreases suicide rates significantly.
Examining patient safety attitudes among urology trainees
Authors: Geraghty Alistair , Reid Sarah , McIlhenny Craig 
Published: June 2013

Objectives
To identify current attitudes to patient safety among urology trainees.
To examine whether these have changed with the recent increase in emphasis on patient safety and the introduction of new working procedures in operating theatres.
Subjects and Methods
Subjects included 28 urology trainees, based in the West of Scotland, UK.
Trainee attitudes were examined using the Operating Room Management Attitudes Questionnaire, a validated tool for examining attitudes towards patient safety.
Results
Attitudes to teamwork were highly positive, with 89–100% of trainees acknowledging the need to share information and conduct pre‐ and postoperative briefs, and 82–96% being accepting of multidisciplinary feedback on performance. Attitudes to preoperative briefing and multidisciplinary feedback were improved compared with a similar historical cohort.
Trainees were reluctant to acknowledge the effect of stress and fatigue on personal performance; 50% felt they worked effectively in critical phases of operations even when tired, only 50% would tell team members their workload was becoming excessive and only 36% of trainees recognized that personal problems could affect their performance. There was no significant change in these attitudes from 2006 data.
Regarding leadership and confidence assertion, 68% of trainees felt that leadership in the operating theatre should rest with the medical staff, 18% stated senior decisions or actions should not be questioned unless they threaten safety and 7% that they should not be questioned at all. This was similar to previous data.
Conclusions
Attitudes to briefing and multidisciplinary feedback appear to have improved since the introduction of the World Health Organization surgical checklist and wider use of feedback tools; other safety attitudes remain largely unchanged.
Urology trainees may benefit from further training to better understand the mechanisms of error development, to raise awareness of human performance limitation, particularly the effects of stress and fatigue, and to develop techniques to challenge decisions/respond to challenges.
Influence of extrafloral nectary phenology on ant–plant mutualistic networks in a neotropical savanna
Authors: LANGE DENISE , DÁTTILO WESLEY , DEL‐CLARO KLEBER 
Published: June 2013

Temporal variation has been one remarkable feature of ecological interactions. In ant–plant mutualism, this variation is widely known, although little is understood about the mechanisms that shape these variations.
This study tested whether or not the phenology of extrafloral nectaries (EFNs) influences the temporal variation of two properties of an ant–plant interaction network.
The network under investigation exhibited a nested pattern and low specialisation over most months. Monthly nestedness and specialisation in the network were negatively correlated, both being influenced by temporal variations in extrafloral nectar production of the plant community. The months of highest activity in the nectaries (August–November) were those when the level of generalisation in the network was at its highest. Although there were temporal variations in the properties of the network, the generalist core of the species remained the same over time.
The stable core enhances the coevolutionary importance of ant–plant interactions for the community. Thus, it can be concluded that the phenology of EFNs is one effective mechanism shaping the temporal variation in ant–plant interaction.
A pilot study of a school‐based prevention and early intervention program to reduce oppositional defiant disorder/conduct disorder
Authors: Winther Jo , Carlsson Anthony , Vance Alasdair 
Published: June 2013

AbstractOppositional defiant disorder (ODD) or conduct disorder (CD) occurs when children's disruptive and antisocial behaviours start to interfere with their academic, emotional and/or social development. Recently, there has been a considerable investment to implement national school‐based early intervention programs to help prevent the onset of ODD/CD.Aim:This paper describes the delivery of the Royal Children's Hospital, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service and Schools Early Action Program: a whole school, multi‐level, multidisciplinary approach to address emerging ODD/CD and pre‐ versus post‐delivery assessment in 40 schools over a 4‐year period (2007–2010).Methods:All children from preparatory to grade 3 (ages 4–10 years) were screened for conduct problems (n = 8546) using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. Universal, targeted and indicated interventions were delivered in school settings. In total, 304 children participated in the targeted group program where the Child Behaviour Checklist was used as a pre‐ and post‐intervention measure. Cohen's d effect sizes and a reliability change index were calculated to determine clinical significance.Results:Significant reductions in both parent‐ and teacher‐reported internalizing and externalizing symptoms were noted. Parent, teacher and child feedback were very positive.Conclusions:A future randomized controlled trial of the program would address potential placebo and selection bias effects.
A case report of cognitive behavioural therapy for social anxiety in an ultra‐high risk patient
Authors: Haglund Margaret , Cabaniss Deborah , Kimhy David , Corcoran Cheryl M. 
Published: June 2013

AbstractAim:Psychological treatments such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) may have efficacy in young people at ultra‐high risk (UHR) for psychosis. Case reports can illuminate the obstacles and challenges, and potential trajectory of symptom changes, observed with this treatment.Methods:This is a detailed case report of a young adult at UHR for psychosis who received manualized CBT for accompanying social anxiety.Results:Cognitive deficits and suspiciousness created initial challenges for successful implementation of CBT. Engagement in treatment occurred with slowing of pace and simplification of material, and modelling of social interaction. Treatment of social anxiety was accompanied by decreases in suspiciousness, conceptual disorganization, and social anhedonia, and increase in range of affect.Conclusions:Adaptation of manualized CBT to accommodate cognitive deficits and suspiciousness in UHR patients may improve engagement. CBT focused on social anxiety can lead to improvement across symptom domains in UHR patients.
National Constitutional Jurisprudence in a Post‐National Europe: The ESM Ruling of the German Federal Constitutional Court and the Disavowal of Conflict
Authors: Deters Henning 
Published: June 2013

AbstractIn its pending decision on the constitutionality of the European Stability Mechanism and Fiscal Compact, the German Federal Constitutional Court (FCC) has recently ruled on several applications for temporary injunctions against the transposition of these instruments. The problem of democratic self‐determination under the constraints of monetary integration has been a main concern in the ruling. Yet, the democracy‐safeguards the FCC has prescribed are parochial in not considering their impact on other EU Member States, and the Court's view of autonomy is skewed towards the issue of spending. Both concepts are at odds with the current level of transnational interdependence, which the FCC as relay to ‘integration by stealth’ has facilitated during two decades of EU‐jurisprudence. Constitutional jurisdiction should acknowledge its role in this state of affairs and fortify its effort in building judicial networks of deliberative exchange to overcome outworn parochialisms.
Composition characterization and clinical efficacy study of a salmon egg extract
Authors: Lønne G. K. , Gammelsæter R. , Haglerød C. 
Published: June 2013

SynopsisObjectiveThere is an increasing demand for scientifically documented over‐the‐counter products on the cosmetic market. Salmon eggs are rich in proteins, vitamins and minerals with anti‐oxidative and anti‐inflammatory properties, as well as free amino acids and lipids documented to be beneficial for skin. Of the fatty acids, several are commonly used as skin penetration enhancers. The unique combination of active substances led us to study whether an extract from salmon eggs could serve as an ingredient for skin care.MethodsWe conducted a double‐blinded, randomized clinical trial with 66 healthy female volunteers. Efficacy of the salmon egg extract was evaluated at concentrations of 1% and 5% in vehicle formulation, and responses after 7, 14, 28 and 56 days of treatment were compared with baseline. Composition of the extract was analysed to improve the understanding of the effects of the extract on skin. The salmon egg extract was safety‐tested by repeat insult patch test.ResultsTreatment of facial skin with the salmon egg extract significantly improved all parameters investigated, wrinkles, pigmentation, redness, brightness and hydration and led to global improvement of the facial skin. Efficacy of the extract was dose dependent and time dependent. There were no adverse reactions noted during the course of the repeat insult patch test, demonstrating that the extract causes neither skin irritation nor sensitization. Furthermore, chemical analyses of the extract revealed the composition of a vast number of active substances, including unsaturated fatty acids, vitamins, proteins, minerals, DNA and RNA.ConclusionThe salmon egg extract serves as a skin care ingredient that significantly improves characteristics important for perception of skin ageing and health. The efficacy of the treatment is conceivably accounted for by the unique combination of numerous active substances present in the salmon egg extract.
Investigating polypharmacy and drug burden index in hospitalised older people
Authors: Best O. , Gnjidic D. , Hilmer S. N. , Naganathan V. , McLachlan A. J. 
Published: June 2013

AbstractAimsTo investigate the changes in polypharmacy and the drug burden index (DBI) occurring during hospitalisation for older people. The secondary aim was to examine the associations of these two measures with the length of hospital stay and admission for falls or delirium.MethodsA retrospective analysis of patients' medical records was undertaken at a large university teaching hospital (Sydney, Australia) for patients with the age of ≥65 years and admitted under the care of the geriatric medicine or rehabilitation teams. Polypharmacy was defined as the use of more than five regular medications. The DBI measures exposure to drugs with anticholinergic and sedative effects. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to investigate the associations between polypharmacy and DBI with outcome measures. Data are presented using odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals.ResultsA total of 329 patients was included in this study. The mean (± standard deviation) age of the population was 84.6 ± 7.0 years, 62% were female and 40% were admitted from residential aged‐care facilities. On admission, polypharmacy was observed in 60% of the cohort and DBI exposure for 50%. DBI and polypharmacy exposure decreased during hospitalisation, but only the number of medications taken decreased by a statistically significant margin (P = 0.02). Patients with a high DBI (≥1) were approximately three times more likely to be admitted for delirium than those with no DBI exposure (odds ratio, 2.95; 95% confidence interval, 1.34–6.51).ConclusionsIn the present study, DBI was associated with an increased risk of hospital admission for delirium only. Polypharmacy was not associated with any of the clinical measures.
Risk factors associated with physical restraints in residential aged care facilities: a community‐based epidemiological survey in Taiwan
Authors: Huang Hui Chi , Huang Yu Tai , Lin Kuan Chia , Kuo Yong Fang 
Published: June 2013

AbstractAimTo identify the rate and risk factors of physical restraint in residential aged care facilities in Taiwan.BackgroundIn Taiwan, physical restraint is commonly used in aged care facilities to prevent accidents. Many are unaware of the associated risks. Restrained residents cannot move freely, increasing the risk of atrophy and leading to reduced physical functioning.DesignA community‐based epidemiological survey.MethodsData were collected from June–December 2007 across 178 residential aged care facilities with 5,173 residential beds in the target city of Taiwan. Twenty facilities were sampled using probability proportional to size by beds and accreditation ranking. In all, 256 primary caregivers (78 nurses and 178 care aides) and 847 residents completed the study questionnaires and tests. A multilevel analysis approach was used to identify individual‐ and facility‐level risk factors for physical restraint and assess the variation in physical restraint at the individual‐ and facility‐level.ResultsOf 847 residents, 62% (527) were restrained during the study period. The main reasons for restraint use were fall prevention and prevention of tube removal. Resident level risk factors for physical restraint included lower Barthel Index scores (more dependent) and an agreement allowing the use of physical restraint to avoid injury signed by a family member or social worker. A facility‐level risk factor for physical restraint was younger primary caregivers.ConclusionTo reduce the incidence of physical restraint in residential aged care facilities in Taiwan, educational programmes should target primary caregivers and families in facilities.
An Optimization Method for Estimating Constituent Mean Concentrations in Base Flow‐Dominated Flow
Authors: Ahiablame Laurent , Engel Bernard , Chaubey Indrajeet 
Published: June 2013

AbstractPollutant coefficients have been widely used to assess runoff nonpoint source pollution from individual land uses (e.g., agricultural, residential) of a watershed. Pollutant coefficients, known as event mean concentrations (EMCs), were developed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Nationwide Urban Runoff Program (NURP) to serve as a national measure for characterizing pollutant loading in a receiving water body. The term “baseflow pollutant coefficient (BPC)” is used in this study as a surrogate for EMC to describe mean concentration of pollutants in base flow‐dominated flow. A method for characterizing base flow quantity and quality for different land uses was explored using inverse modeling with two optimization techniques (a least square method and a genetic algorithm [GA] optimization), land use information, and streamflow quantity and quality data. The inverse model was formulated as a constrained minimization problem and demonstrated with data for 15 watersheds in Indiana. Results showed that estimated pollutant coefficients are comparable to the published literature. This indicates that the proposed method has the potential to effectively estimate constituent mean concentrations for pollutant load determination in gauged and ungauged watersheds, albeit more analysis with larger and more robust datasets is desirable to further refine and validate the accuracy of the approach.
New insights into carbon allocation by trees from the hypothesis that annual wood production is maximized
Authors: McMurtrie Ross E. , Dewar Roderick C. 
Published: June 2013

SummaryAllocation of carbon (C) between tree components (leaves, fine roots and woody structures) is an important determinant of terrestrialCsequestration. Yet, because the mechanisms underlyingCallocation are poorly understood, it is a weak link in current earth‐system models. We obtain new theoretical insights intoCallocation from the hypothesis (MaxW) that annual wood production is maximized.MaxWis implemented using a model of treeCand nitrogen (N) balance with a vertically resolved canopy and root system for stands of Norway spruce (Picea abies).MaxWpredicts optimal vertical profiles of leafNand root biomass, optimal canopy leaf area index and rooting depth, and the associated optimal pattern ofCallocation.Key insights include a predicted optimal C–N functional balance between leaves at the base of the canopy and the deepest roots, according to which the netCexport from basal leaves is just sufficient to grow the basal roots required to meet their N requirement.MaxWlinks the traits of basal leaves and roots to whole‐treeCandNuptake, and unifies two previous optimization hypotheses (maximum gross primary production, maximum N uptake) that have been applied independently to canopies and root systems.
SNP‐based Bayesian networks can predict oral mucositis risk in autologous stem cell transplant recipients
Authors: Sonis ST , Antin JH , Tedaldi MW , Alterovitz G 
Published: June 2013

ObjectiveApproximately 40% of patients receiving conditioning chemotherapy prior to autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplants (aHSCT) develop severe oral mucositis (SOM). Aside from disabling pain, ulcerative lesions associated with SOM predispose to poor health and economic outcomes. Our objective was to develop a probabilistic graphical model in which a cluster of single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) derived from salivary DNA could be used as a tool to predict SOM risk.MethodsSalivary DNA was extracted from 153 HSCT patients and applied to Illumina BeadChips. Using sequential data analysis, we filtered extraneous SNPs, selected loci, and identified a predictive SNP network for OM risk. We then tested the predictive validity of the network using SNP array outputs from an independent HSCT cohort.ResultsWe identified an 82‐SNP Bayesian network (BN) that was related to SOM risk with a 10‐fold cross‐validation accuracy of 99.3% and an area under the ROC curve of 99.7%. Using samples from a small independent patient cohort (n = 16), we demonstrated the network's predictive validity with an accuracy of 81.2% in the absence of any false positives.ConclusionsOur results suggest that SNP‐based BN developed from saliva‐sourced DNA can predict SOM risk in patients prior to aHSCT.