bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Trait‐mediated functional responses: predator behavioural type mediates prey consumption
Authors: Toscano Benjamin J. , Griffen Blaine D. 
Published: April 2014

SummaryThe predator functional response (i.e. per capita consumption rate as a function of prey density) is central to our understanding of predator–prey population dynamics. This response is behavioural, depending on the rate of attack and time it takes to handle prey.Consistent behavioural differences among conspecific individuals, termed behavioural types, are a widespread feature of predator and prey populations but the effects of behavioural types on the functional response remain unexplored.We tested the effects of crab (Panopeus herbstii) behavioural type, specifically individual activity level, on the crab functional response to mussel (Brachidontes exustus) prey. We further tested whether the effects of activity level on the response are mediated by the presence of toadfish (Opsanus tau) predation threat in the form of waterborne chemical cues known to reduce crab activity level.The effects of crab activity level on the functional response were dependent on crab body size. Individual activity level increased the magnitude (i.e. slope and asymptote) of the typeIIfunctional response of small crabs, potentially through an increase in time spent foraging, but had no effect on the functional response of large crabs. Predation threat did not interact with activity level to influence mussel consumption, but independently reduced the slope of the typeIIfunctional response.Overall, this study demonstrates size‐specific effects of a behavioural type on a predator–prey interaction, as well as a general pathway (modification of the functional response) by which the effects of individual behavioural types can scale up to influence predator–prey population dynamics.
Exotic birds increase generalization and compensate for native bird decline in plant–frugivore assemblages
Authors: García Daniel , Martínez Daniel , Stouffer Daniel B. , Tylianakis Jason M. 
Published: April 2014

Summary

Exotic species are thought to alter the structure of natural communities and disrupt ecosystem functioning through invasion. Nevertheless, exotic species may also provide ecological insurance when they contribute to maintain ecosystem functions after the decline of native species following anthropogenic disturbance.

Here, this hypothesis is tested with the assemblage of frugivorous birds and fleshy‐fruited plants of New Zealand, which has suffered strong historical declines in native birds while simultaneously gaining new frugivores introduced by European settlers.

We studied the plant–frugivore assemblage from measures of fruit and bird abundances and fruit consumption in nine forest patches, and tested how this changed across a gradient of relative abundance of exotic birds. We then examined how each bird species' role in the assemblage (the proportion of fruits and the number of plant species consumed) varied with their relative abundance, body size and native/exotic status.

The more abundant and, to a lesser extent, larger birds species consumed a higher proportion of fruits from more plant species. Exotic birds consumed fruits less selectively and more proportionate to the local availability than did native species. Interaction networks in which exotic birds had a stronger role as frugivores had higher generalization, higher nestedness and higher redundancy of plants.

Exotic birds maintained frugivory when native birds became rarer, and diversified the local spectrum of frugivores for co‐occurring native plants. These effects seemed related to the fact that species abundances, rather than trait‐matching constraints, ultimately determined the patterns of interactions between birds and plants. By altering the structure of plant–frugivore assemblages, exotic birds likely enhance the stability of the community‐wide seed dispersal in the face of continued anthropogenic impact.
Linking body mass and group dynamics in an obligate cooperative breeder
Authors: Ozgul Arpat , Bateman Andrew W. , English Sinead , Coulson Tim , Clutton‐Brock Tim H. 
Published: April 2014

Summary

Social and environmental factors influence key life‐history processes and population dynamics by affecting fitness‐related phenotypic traits such as body mass. The role of body mass is particularly pronounced in cooperative breeders due to variation in social status and consequent variation in access to resources. Investigating the mechanisms underlying variation in body mass and its demographic consequences can help elucidate how social and environmental factors affect the dynamics of cooperatively breeding populations.

In this study, we present an analysis of the effect of individual variation in body mass on the temporal dynamics of group size and structure of a cooperatively breeding mongoose, the Kalahari meerkat, Suricata suricatta.

First, we investigate how body mass interacts with social (dominance status and number of helpers) and environmental (rainfall and season) factors to influence key life‐history processes (survival, growth, emigration and reproduction) in female meerkats. Next, using an individual‐based population model, we show that the models explicitly including individual variation in body mass predict group dynamics better than those ignoring this morphological trait.

Body mass influences group dynamics mainly through its effects on helper emigration and dominant reproduction. Rainfall has a trait‐mediated, destabilizing effect on group dynamics, whereas the number of helpers has a direct and stabilizing effect. Counteracting effects of number of helpers on different demographic rates, despite generating temporal fluctuations, stabilizes group dynamics in the long term.

Our study demonstrates that social and environmental factors interact to produce individual variation in body mass and accounting for this variation helps to explain group dynamics in this cooperatively breeding population.
Tropical forest wood production: a cross‐continental comparison
Authors: Banin Lindsay , Lewis Simon L. , Lopez‐Gonzalez Gabriela , Baker Timothy R. , Quesada Carlos A. , Chao Kuo‐Jung , Burslem David F. R. P. , Nilus Reuben , Abu Salim Kamariah , Keeling Helen C. , Tan Sylvester , Davies Stuart J. , Monteagudo Mendoza Abel , Vásquez Rodolfo , Lloyd Jon , Neill David A. , Pitman Nigel , Phillips Oliver L. 
Published: April 2014

Summary

Tropical forest above‐ground wood production (AGWP) varies substantially along environmental gradients. Some evidence suggests that AGWP may vary between regions and specifically that Asian forests have particularly high AGWP. However, comparisons across biogeographic regions using standardized methods are lacking, limiting our assessment of pan‐tropical variation in AGWP and potential causes.

We sampled AGWP in NW Amazon (17 long‐term forest plots) and N Borneo (11 plots), both with abundant year‐round precipitation. Within each region, forests growing on a broad range of edaphic conditions were sampled using standardized soil and forest measurement techniques.

Plot‐level AGWP was 49% greater in Borneo than in Amazonia (9.73 ± 0.56 vs. 6.53 ± 0.34 Mg dry mass ha−1 a−1, respectively; regional mean ± 1 SE). AGWP was positively associated with soil fertility (PCA axes, sum of bases and total P). After controlling for the edaphic environment, AGWP remained significantly higher in Bornean plots. Differences in AGWP were largely attributable to differing height–diameter allometry in the two regions and the abundance of large trees in Borneo. This may be explained, in part, by the greater solar radiation in Borneo compared with NW Amazonia.

Trees belonging to the dominant SE Asian family, Dipterocarpaceae, gained woody biomass faster than otherwise equivalent, neighbouring non‐dipterocarps, implying that the exceptional production of Bornean forests may be driven by floristic elements. This dominant SE Asian family may partition biomass differently or be more efficient at harvesting resources and in converting them to woody biomass.

Synthesis. N Bornean forests have much greater AGWP rates than those in NW Amazon when soil conditions and rainfall are controlled for. Greater resource availability and the highly productive dipterocarps may, in combination, explain why Asian forests produce wood half as fast again as comparable forests in the Amazon. Our results also suggest that taxonomic groups differ in their fundamental ability to capture carbon and that different tropical regions may therefore have different carbon uptake capacities due to biogeographic history.
Human Identification by Oral Prosthesis Analysis with Probability Rates Higher than DNA Analysis
Authors: Modesti Luana D. M. , Vieira Giovanni M. , Galvão Malthus F. , de Amorim Rivadávio F. B. 
Published: April 2014

AbstractSeveral techniques are used to perform an appropriate and reliable human identification. Forensic dentistry has achieved great relevance over the past years. The aim of this article is to report the method used for the identification of a male body found in the colliquative stage of putrefaction. The identification of the victim was succeeded confronting the dental findings found in the corpse with the data present on dental records provided by his dentist. The major elements for the identity′s recognition were a metal core and a prosthetic crown that were being fabricated. These elements associated with the dental records were compelling for the elucidation of the case, and a positive body identification was achieved with high levels of probability. In the present case, cadaveric analysis of stomatognathic system structures achieved a probability value higher than DNA identification techniques, emphasizing the importance of forensic dentistry.
Geographic segregation and evidence of density‐dependent changes in sex ratios in an abundant colonial waterbird
Authors: DORR Brian S. , HANSON‐DORR Katie C. , DeVAULT Travis L. , GUILLAUMET Alban , BARRAS Scott C. 
Published: April 2014

AbstractDemographic information, such as geographic segregation of sexes and sex ratio data, is needed to develop, model and evaluate conservation and management strategies for wildlife. A variety of physiological, behavioral and environmental factors can influence segregation of sexes and sex ratios, many of which originate with density‐dependent processes. Departure from 50:50 sex ratios of double‐crested cormorants (Phalacrocorax auritus) collected during control efforts in breeding and wintering areas across their eastern range of the USA were evaluated using using a Z‐test as well as Stouffer's weighted Z‐tests. In addition, a specifically‐designed randomization test was used to evaluate density‐dependent effects on primary sex ratios in cormorants from egg collections and colony nest count data over a 21‐year period. Cormorants collected from breeding colonies were strongly male‐biased, whereas cormorants collected from feeding flocks were slightly biased toward females. Cormorants were partly segregated by sex on the wintering grounds, with significantly more males found in areas with intensive channel catfish aquaculture. The null hypothesis that females produced a balanced sex ratio independent of number of nesting cormorants was rejected: more male embryos were produced during rapid population growth, whereas at maximum nesting number more female embryos were produced. Once populations stabilized, the sex ratio was more equal. This examination of sex ratios indicates that different management methods and locations result in sex‐biased culling of cormorants. Sex‐biased culling in cormorants could make population reduction efforts more efficient and reduce overall take. We suggest further research to examine density‐dependent effects on primary sex ratios documented here.
Dipeptidyl Peptidase‐4 Inhibitors and Cardiovascular Outcomes: Meta‐Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials with 55,141 Participants
Authors: Wu Shiying , Hopper Ingrid , Skiba Marina , Krum Henry 
Published: April 2014

AbstractAimsThe association between glucose lowering in diabetes mellitus and major cardiovascular (CV) outcomes is weak; indeed, some oral hypoglycemic agents are associated with increased CV events. Dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitors (DPP‐4 inhibitors) are a new class of oral hypoglycemic agent that may have beneficial CV effects. We undertook a systematic review and meta‐analysis to appraise the CV safety and efficacy of DPP‐4 inhibitors.MethodsComprehensive search for prospective trials involving DPP‐4 inhibitors. Trials included reported at least one of the outcomes examined, recruited minimum 100 patients and minimum follow‐up 24 weeks. The risk ratio (RR) was calculated using the Mantel–Haenszel random‐effects model for mortality and major cardiovascular (CV) outcomes.ResultsFifty trials enrolling 55,141 participants were included. Mean follow‐up 45.3 weeks. DPP‐4 inhibitors compared with all comparators (placebo and active) showed no difference in all‐cause mortality (n = 50,982, RR = 1.01, 95% CI 0.91–1.13, P = 0.83), CV mortality (n = 48,151, RR = 0.97, 95% CI 0.85–1.11, P = 0.70), acute coronary syndrome (ACS) (n = 53,034 RR = 0.97, 95% CI 0.87–1.08, P = 0.59), or stroke (n = 42,737, RR = 0.98, 95% CI 0.81–1.18, P = 0.80), and a statistically significant increase in heart failure outcomes (n = 39,953, RR = 1.16, 95% CI 1.01–1.33, P = 0.04).DiscussionTreatment with DPP‐4 inhibitors compared with placebo shows no increase in risk with regards to all‐cause mortality, CV mortality, ACS, or stroke, but a statistically significant trend toward increased risk of HF outcomes.ConclusionThese findings suggest no cardiovascular harm (or benefit) with DPP‐4 inhibitors; further large‐scale CV outcome studies will resolve the issue of excess HF risk.
Mesenchymal stem cells regulate airway contractile tissue remodeling in murine experimental asthma
Authors: Mariñas‐Pardo L. , Mirones I. , Amor‐Carro Ó. , Fraga‐Iriso R. , Lema‐Costa B. , Cubillo I. , Rodríguez Milla M. Á. , García‐Castro J. , Ramos‐Barbón D. 
Published: April 2014

AbstractBackgroundMesenchymal stem cells may offer therapeutic potential for asthma due to their immunomodulatory properties and host tolerability, yet prior evidence suggests that bloodborne progenitor cells may participate in airway remodeling. Here, we tested whether mesenchymal stem cells administered as anti‐inflammatory therapy may favor airway remodeling and therefore be detrimental.MethodsAdipose tissue‐derived mesenchymal stem cells were retrovirally transduced to express green fluorescent protein and intravenously injected into mice with established experimental asthma induced by repeat intranasal house dust mite extract. Controls were house dust mite‐instilled animals receiving intravenous vehicle or phosphate‐buffered saline‐instilled animals receiving mesenchymal stem cells. Data on lung function, airway inflammation, and remodeling were collected at 72 h after injection or after 2 weeks of additional intranasal challenge.ResultsThe mesenchymal stem cells homed to the lungs and rapidly downregulated airway inflammation in association with raised T‐helper‐1 lung cytokines, but such effect declined under sustained allergen challenge despite a persistent presence of mesenchymal stem cells. Conversely, airway hyperresponsiveness and contractile tissue underwent a late reduction regardless of continuous pathogenic stimuli and inflammatory rebound. Tracking of green fluorescent protein did not show mesenchymal stem cell integration or differentiation in airway wall tissues.ConclusionsTherapeutic mesenchymal stem cell infusion in murine experimental asthma is free of unwanted pro‐remodeling effects and ameliorates airway hyper‐responsiveness and contractile tissue remodeling. These outcomes support furthering the development of mesenchymal stem cell‐based asthma therapies, although caution and solid preclinical data building are warranted.
Tissue‐Engineered Tracheal Reconstruction Using Three‐Dimensionally Printed Artificial Tracheal Graft: Preliminary Report
Authors: Chang Jae Won , Park Su A. , Park Ju‐Kyeong , Choi Jae Won , Kim Yoo‐Suk , Shin Yoo Seob , Kim Chul‐Ho 
Published: April 2014

AbstractThree‐dimensional printing has come into the spotlight in the realm of tissue engineering. We intended to evaluate the plausibility of 3D‐printed (3DP) scaffold coated with mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) seeded in fibrin for the repair of partial tracheal defects. MSCs from rabbit bone marrow were expanded and cultured. A half‐pipe‐shaped 3DP polycaprolactone scaffold was coated with the MSCs seeded in fibrin. The half‐pipe tracheal graft was implanted on a 10 × 10‐mm artificial tracheal defect in four rabbits. Four and eight weeks after the operation, the reconstructed sites were evaluated bronchoscopically, radiologically, histologically, and functionally. None of the four rabbits showed any sign of respiratory distress. Endoscopic examination and computed tomography showed successful reconstruction of trachea without any collapse or blockage. The replaced tracheas were completely covered with regenerated respiratory mucosa. Histologic analysis showed that the implanted 3DP tracheal grafts were successfully integrated with the adjacent trachea without disruption or granulation tissue formation. Neo‐cartilage formation inside the implanted graft was sufficient to maintain the patency of the reconstructed trachea. Scanning electron microscope examination confirmed the regeneration of the cilia, and beating frequency of regenerated cilia was not different from those of the normal adjacent mucosa. The shape and function of reconstructed trachea using 3DP scaffold coated with MSCs seeded in fibrin were restored successfully without any graft rejection.
Effect of Additional Preoperative Administration of the Neutrophil Elastase Inhibitor Sivelestat on Perioperative Inflammatory Response After Pediatric Heart Surgery With Cardiopulmonary Bypass
Authors: Kohira Satoshi , Oka Norihiko , Inoue Nobuyuki , Itatani Keiichi , Kitamura Tadashi , Horai Tetsuya , Oshima Hiroyuki , Tojo Keiichi , Yoshitake Shigenori , Miyaji Kagami 
Published: April 2014

AbstractCardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) elicits a systemic inflammatory response. Our previous reports revealed that prophylactic sivelestat administration at CPB initiation suppresses the postoperative acute inflammatory response due to CPB in pediatric cardiac surgery. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of sivelestat administration before CPB and at CPB initiation in patients undergoing pediatric open‐heart surgery. Twenty consecutive patients weighing 5–10 kg and undergoing ventricular septal defect closure with CPB were divided into pre‐CPB (n = 10) and control (n = 10) groups. Patients in the pre‐CPB group received a 24 h continuous intravenous infusion of 0.2 mg/kg/h sivelestat starting at the induction of anesthesia and an additional 0.1 mg/100 mL during CPB priming. Patients in the control group received a 24‐h continuous intravenous infusion of 0.2 mg/kg/h sivelestat starting at the commencement of CPB. Blood samples were tested. Clinical variables including blood loss, water balance, systemic vascular resistance index, and the ratio between partial pressure of oxygen and fraction of inspired oxygen (P/F ratio) were assessed. White blood cell count and neutrophil count as well as C‐reactive protein levels were significantly lower in the pre‐CPB group according to repeated two‐way analysis of variance, whereas platelet count was significantly higher. During CPB, mixed venous oxygen saturation remained significantly higher and lactate levels lower in the pre‐CPB group. Postoperative alanine aminotransferase and blood urea nitrogen levels were significantly lower in the pre‐CPB group than in the control group. The P/F ratio was significantly higher in the pre‐CPB group than in the control group. Fluid load requirement was significantly lower in the pre‐CPB group.Administration of sivelestat before CPB initiation is more effective than administration at initiation for the suppression of inflammatory responses due to CPB in pediatric open‐heart surgery, with this effect being confirmed by clinical evidence.
Comparing minimally invasive and proactive initial management of extremely preterm infants
Authors: Lando A , Kure Østergaard K , Greisen G 
Published: April 2014

AbstractAimIn 2005, we changed our minimally invasive departmental policy for infants born before 26 weeks of gestation to a proactive approach. This included structured guidelines as well as intubation and surfactant in the delivery room, if the parents agreed. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of this change of policy.MethodWe compared the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) scores, mortality rates and use of mechanical ventilation before (1999–2003) and after (2005–2011) the introduction of the new policy.ResultsTwenty‐two per cent of 61 infants in the before group had an ASQ z‐score of <−2 standard deviation at 18 months' corrected age, compared with 26% of 55 infants in the after group. Mortality decreased from 46% to 36% (p = 0.06) and the use of mechanical ventilation at any time during admission increased from 64% to 87% (p < 0.0001).ConclusionWe demonstrated that changing our policy to a proactive approach to the initial care of infants born before 26 weeks did not result in a major increase in psychomotor deficit. However, the use of mechanical ventilation increased significantly and survival tended to improve.
Comparison of mortality following hospitalisation for ulcerative colitis in Scotland between 1998–2000 and 2007–2009
Authors: Ventham N. T. , Kennedy N. A. , Duffy A. , Clark D. N. , Crowe A. M. , Knight A. D. , Nicholls R. J. , Satsangi J. 
Published: April 2014

SummaryBackgroundScottish nationwide linkage data from 1998 to 2000 demonstrated high 3‐year mortality in patients hospitalised with ulcerative colitis (UC).AimTo compare 3‐year mortality, and factors related to mortality, in Scottish patients hospitalised with UC between 1998–2000 and 2007–2009.MethodsThe Scottish Morbidity Records and linked datasets were used to assess 3‐year mortality, standardised mortality ratio (SMR) and multivariate analyses of factors associated with 3‐year mortality. The 3‐year mortality was determined after four admission types: surgery‐elective or emergency; medical‐elective or emergency.Age‐standardised mortality rates (ASR) were used to compare mortality rates between periods.ResultsUlcerative colitis admissions increased from 10.6 in Period 1 to 11.6 per 100 000 population per year in Period 2 (P = 0.046). Crude and adjusted 3‐year mortality fell between time periods (crude 12.2% to 8.3%; adjusted OR 0.59, CI 0.42–0.81, P = 0.04). Adjusted 3‐year mortality following emergency medical admission (OR 0.58, CI 0.39–0.87, P = 0.003) and in patients >65 years (38.8% to 28.7%, P = 0.02) was lower in Period 2. The SMR in period 1 was 3.04 and 2.96 in Period 2. Directly age‐standardised mortality decreased from 373 (CI 309–437) to 264 (CI 212–316) per 10 000 person‐years. On multivariate analysis, increasing age (50–64 years OR 7.11 (CI 2.77–18.27, P < 0.05); 65–74 years OR 14.70 (CI 5.65–38.25 P < 0.05); >75 years OR 46.42 (CI 18.29–117.78, P < 0.001) and co‐morbidity (OR 3.02, CI 1.72–5.28, P < 0.001) were significantly associated with 3‐year mortality in Period 2.ConclusionsComparisons of crude and adjusted mortality rates suggest significant improvement in outcome over the last decade – however, mortality remains high, and older age and co‐morbidity are important predictors of outcome.