bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Spatiotemporal hierarchical modelling of species richness and occupancy using camera trap data
Authors: Tobler Mathias W. , Zúñiga Hartley Alfonso , Carrillo‐Percastegui Samia E. , Powell George V. N. 
Published: January 2015

Summary

Over the last two decades, a large number of camera trap surveys have been carried out around the world and camera traps have been proposed as an ideal tool for inventorying and monitoring medium to large‐sized terrestrial vertebrates. However, few studies have analysed camera trap data at the community level.

We developed a multi‐session multi‐species occupancy model that allows us to obtain estimates for species richness and occupancy combining data from multiple camera trap surveys (sessions). By estimating species presence at the session‐level and modelling detection probability and occupancy for each species and sessions as nested random effects, we could improve parameter estimates for each session, especially for species with sparse data. We developed two variants of our model: one was a binary latent states model while the other used a Royle–Nichols formulation for the relationship between detection probability and abundance.

We applied both models to data from eight camera trap surveys from south‐eastern Peru including six study sites, 263 camera stations and 17 423 camera days. Sites covered protected areas, a logging concession and Brazil nut concessions. We included habitat (terra firme vs. floodplain) as a covariate for occupancy and trail vs. off‐trail as a covariate for detection.

Among‐camera heterogeneity was a serious problem for our data and the Royle–Nichols variant of our model had a much better fit than the binary‐state variant. Both models resulted in similar species richness estimates showing that most of the sites contained intact large mammal communities. Detection probabilities and occupancy values were more variable across species than across sessions within species. Three species showed a habitat preference and four species showed preference or avoidance of trails.

Synthesis and applications. Our multi‐session multi‐species occupancy model provides improved estimates for species richness and occupancy for a large data set. Our model is ideally suited for integrating large numbers of camera trap data sets to investigate regional and/or temporal patterns in the distribution and composition of mammal communities in relation to natural or anthropogenic factors or to monitor mammal communities over time.
High‐elevation range limit of an annual herb is neither caused nor reinforced by declining pollinator service
Authors: Hargreaves Anna L. , Weiner Jennifer L. , Eckert Christopher G. 
Published: January 2015

SummaryPollination failure has been proposed to be an important determinant of plant species’ range limits if pollinator activity declines along an environmental gradient, directly limiting plant populations, or if plant populations decline along an environmental gradient and subsequently fail to attract sufficient visitation. Both mechanisms predict reduced pollinator visitation, increased pollen limitation and decreased seed production towards range limits, and the first additionally predicts declining pollinator abundance independent of any particular plant species. However, many self‐compatible species have some capacity for autonomous self‐fertilization, which may buffer reproductive success from declining pollinator visitation if inbreeding depression is mild. Thus pollinator‐mediated limits may also predict selection for reduced reliance on pollinators towards range limits.We tested these predictions towards the high‐elevation limit of the self‐compatible, bumblebee (Bombus)‐pollinatedRhinanthus minor,along two elevation transects in the Rocky Mountains of Alberta, Canada.Bombusabundance was highest at mid‐ (range‐centre) and high‐elevation (range limit) sites, so declining pollinator abundance is unlikely to impose high‐elevation limits for bumblebee‐pollinated species in this area.Flowers per plant and per m2declined at upper range limits, potentially rendering edge populations less attractive. However, visitation rate did not decline towards the range limit at either transect. Stigmatic pollen receipt declined with increasing elevation, but seed set did not, nor did outcross pollen supplementation increase seed set at any site.Investment in floral attractiveness (corolla area/ovary area) increased towards range limits, but capacity for high‐quality autonomous seed set and adult inbreeding coefficients inferred from genetic markers were uniformly high, suggesting frequent self‐fertilization and weak inbreeding depression throughout the range.Synthesis. We found no evidence for pollination failure towards the upper range limit ofR. minor. Moreover, unlike some species with a capacity for autogamy, autonomous selfing makes a major contribution toR. minor's mating system and demography, and likely buffers reproductive success from stochasticity in pollination. Continued investment in floral attractiveness despite high autonomous selfing suggests some evolutionary benefit to pollinator‐mediated outcrossing, rather than ecological benefits via increasing seed quantity or quality. Given that >50% of angiosperms are self‐compatible, the reproductive assurance provided by selfing may reduce the importance of pollination in limiting plant distributions compared to other biotic interactions.
The bacterial alarmone (p)ppGpp is required for virulence and controls cell size and survival of Pseudomonas syringae on plants
Authors: Chatnaparat Tiyakhon , Li Zhong , Korban Schuyler S. , Zhao Youfu 
Published: January 2015

SummaryThe stringent response, mediated by second messenger (p)ppGpp, results in swift and massive transcriptional reprogramming under nutrient limited conditions. In this study, the role of (p)ppGpp on virulence of Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae B728a (PssB728a) was investigated. The virulence of the relA/spoT (ppGpp0) double mutant was completely impaired on bean, and bacterial growth was significantly reduced, suggesting that (p)ppGpp is required for full virulence of P. syringae. Expression of T3SS and other virulence genes was reduced in ppGpp0 mutants. In addition, ppGpp deficiency resulted in loss of swarming motility, reduction of pyoverdine production, increased sensitivity to oxidative stress and antibiotic tolerance, as well as reduced ability to utilize γ‐amino butyric acid. Increased levels of ppGpp resulted in reduced cell size of PssB728a when grown in a minimal medium and on plant surfaces, while most ppGpp0 mutant cells were not viable on plant surfaces 24 h after spray inoculation, suggesting that ppGpp‐mediated stringent response temporarily limits cell growth, and might control cell survival on plants by limiting their growth. These results demonstrated that ppGpp‐mediated stringent response plays a central role in P. syringae virulence and survival and indicated that ppGpp serves as a global signal for regulating various virulence traits in PssB728a.
The MADS‐box transcription factor FgMcm1 regulates cell identity and fungal development in Fusarium graminearum
Authors: Yang Cui , Liu Huiquan , Li Guotian , Liu Meigang , Yun Yingzi , Wang Chenfang , Ma Zhonghua , Xu Jin‐Rong 
Published: January 2015

SummaryIn eukaryotic cells, MADS‐box genes are known to play major regulatory roles in various biological processes by combinatorial interactions with other transcription factors. In this study, we functionally characterized the FgMCM1 MADS‐box gene in Fusarium graminearum, the causal agent of wheat and barley head blight. Deletion of FgMCM1 resulted in the loss of perithecium production and phialide formation. The Fgmcm1 mutant was significantly reduced in virulence, deoxynivalenol biosynthesis and conidiation. In yeast two‐hybrid assays, FgMcm1 interacted with Mat1‐1‐1 and Fst12, two transcription factors important for sexual reproduction. Whereas Fgmcm1 mutants were unstable and produced stunted subcultures, Fgmcm1 mat1‐1‐1 but not Fgmcm1 fst12 double mutants were stable. Furthermore, spontaneous suppressor mutations occurred frequently in stunted subcultures to recover growth rate. Ribonucleic acid sequencing analysis indicated that a number of sexual reproduction‐related genes were upregulated in stunted subcultures compared with the Fgmcm1 mutant, which was downregulated in the expression of genes involved in pathogenesis, secondary metabolism and conidiation. We also showed that culture instability was not observed in the Fvmcm1 mutants of the heterothallic Fusarium verticillioides. Overall, our data indicate that FgMcm1 plays a critical role in the regulation of cell identity, sexual and asexual reproduction, secondary metabolism and pathogenesis in F. graminearum.
The loss of function of PhaC1 is a survival mechanism that counteracts the stress caused by the overproduction of poly‐3‐hydroxyalkanoates in Pseudomonas putidaΔfadBA
Authors: Obeso José I. , Maestro Beatriz , Sanz Jesús M. , Olivera Elías R. , Luengo José M. 
Published: January 2015

SummaryThe poly‐3‐hydroxylkanoate (PHA)‐overproducing mutant Pseudomonas putida U ΔfadBA (PpΔfadBA) lacks the genes encoding the main β‐oxidation pathway (FadBA). This strain accumulates enormous amounts of bioplastics when cultured in chemically defined media containing PHA precursors (different n‐alkanoic or n‐aryl‐alkanoic acids) and an additional carbon source. In medium containing glucose or 4‐hydroxy‐phenylacetate, the mutant does not accumulate PHAs and grows just as the wild type (P. putida U). However, when the carbon source is octanoate, growth is severely impaired, suggesting that in PpΔfadBA, the metabolic imbalance resulting from a lower rate of β‐oxidation, together with the accumulation of bioplastics, causes severe physiological stress. Here, we show that PpΔfadBA efficiently counteracts this latter effect via a survival mechanism involving the introduction of spontaneous mutations that block PHA accumulation. Surprisingly, genetic analyses of the whole pha cluster revealed that these mutations occurred only in the gene encoding one of the polymerases (phaC1) and that the loss of PhaC1 function was enough to prevent PHA synthesis. The influence of these mutations on the structure of PhaC1 and the existence of a protein–protein (PhaC1–PhaC2) interaction that explains the functionality of the polymerization system are discussed herein.
Community composition and population genetics of insect pathogenic fungi in the genus Metarhizium from soils of a long‐term agricultural research system
Authors: Kepler Ryan M. , Ugine Todd A. , Maul Jude E. , Cavigelli Michel A. , Rehner Stephen A. 
Published: January 2015

SummaryFungi in the genus Metarhizium are insect pathogens able to function in other niches, including soil and plant rhizosphere habitats. In agroecosystems, cropping and tillage practices influence soil fungal communities with unknown effects on the distribution of Metarhizium, whose presence can reduce populations of crop pests. We report results from a selective media survey of Metarhizium in soils sampled from a long‐term experimental farming project in the mid‐Atlantic region. Field plots under soybean cultivation produced higher numbers of Metarhizium colony‐forming units (cfu) than corn or alfalfa. Plots managed organically and via chisel‐till harboured higher numbers of Metarhizium cfu than no‐till plots. Sequence typing of Metarhizium isolates revealed four species, with M. robertsii and M. brunneum predominating. The M. brunneum population was essentially fixed for a single clone as determined by multilocus microsatellite genotyping. In contrast, M. robertsii was found to contain significant diversity, with the majority of isolates distributed between two principal clades. Evidence for recombination was observed only in the most abundant clade. These findings illuminate multiple levels of Metarhizium diversity that can be used to inform strategies by which soil Metarhizium populations may be manipulated to exert downward pressure on pest insects and promote plant health.
Life satisfaction, general well‐being and costs of treatment for severe fear of childbirth in nulliparous women by psychoeducative group or conventional care attendance
Authors: Rouhe Hanna , Salmela‐Aro Katariina , Toivanen Riikka , Tokola Maiju , Halmesmäki Erja , Saisto Terhi 
Published: January 2015

AbstractObjectiveFear of childbirth is a common reason for seeking cesarean section. It is important to consider outcomes and costs associated with alternative treatment and delivery mode. We compared well‐being and costs of group psychoeducation and conventional care for fear of childbirth.DesignRandomized controlled trial.PopulationA total of 371 nulliparous women scoring over the 95th centile in the Wijma Delivery Expectancy Questionnaire (W‐DEQ) during the first trimester.SettingFinland, data from obstetrical patient records and questionnaires.MethodsRandomization to group psychoeducation with relaxation (six sessions during pregnancy, one after childbirth, n = 131), or surveillance and referral on demand (n = 240).Main outcome measuresAll costs in maternity care during pregnancy, delivery and postnatally according to Diagnoses Related Groups. Life satisfaction and general well‐being 3 months after childbirth (by a Satisfaction with Life Scale and Well‐being Visual Analogue Scale).ResultsThe groups did not differ in total direct costs (€3786/woman in psychoeducative group and €3830/woman in control group), nor in life satisfaction or general well‐being. Although only 76 (30%) of the women assigned to the surveillance were referred to special maternity care and 36 (15%) attended advanced prenatal classes, costs in the psychoeducation group did not exceed the costs of the controls, mostly because of the greater number of uncomplicated vaginal deliveries (63% vs. 47%, p = 0.005).ConclusionsThrough an association with safer childbirth and equal well‐being after delivery, psychoeducative group treatment for nulliparous women with fear of childbirth can be a recommended choice for the same overall costs as conventional treatment.
Biologic Response of Inguinal Hernia Prosthetics: A Comparative Study of Conventional Static Meshes Versus 3D Dynamic Implants
Authors: Amato Giuseppe , Romano Giorgio , Agrusa Antonino , Marasa Salvatore , Cocorullo Gianfranco , Gulotta Gaspare , Goetze Thorsten , Puleio Roberto 
Published: January 2015

AbstractDespite improvements in prosthetics and surgical techniques, the rate of complications following inguinal hernia repair remains high. Among these, discomfort and chronic pain have become a source of increasing concern among surgeons. Poor quality of tissue ingrowth, such as thin scar plates or shrinking scars—typical results with conventional static implants and plugs—may contribute to these adverse events. Recently, a new type of 3D dynamically responsive implant was introduced to the market. This device, designed to be placed fixation‐free, seems to induce ingrowth of viable and structured tissue instead of regressive fibrotic scarring. To elucidate the differences in biologic response between the conventional static meshes and this 3D dynamically responsive implant, a histological comparison was planned. The aim of this study was to determine the quality of tissue incorporation in both types of implants excised after short, medium, and long periods post‐implantation. The results showed large differences in the biologic responses between the two implant types. Histologically, the 3D dynamic implant showed development of tissue elements more similar to natural abdominal wall structures, such as the ingrowth of loose and well‐hydrated connective tissue, well‐formed vascular structures, elastic fibers, and mature nerves, with negligible or absent inflammatory response. All these characteristics were completely absent in the conventional static implants, where a persistent inflammatory reaction was associated with thin, hardened, and shrunken fibrotic scar formation. Consequently, as herniation is a degenerative process, the 3D dynamic implants, which induce regeneration of the typical groin components, seem to address its pathogenesis.
Use of Blood Products in Pediatric Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Durandy Yves 
Published: January 2015

AbstractIn pediatric cardiac surgery, there is a substantial gap between published recommendations or guidelines for blood product use and clinical practice. The drawbacks of blood transfusion are well acknowledged though. The aim of this paper is to present the rationale for packed red blood cells, fresh frozen plasma (FFP), and platelets used in pediatric patients. Blood hemoglobin level is the current trigger used for packed red blood cells transfusion, though commonly admitted to be suboptimal. An increase in hemoglobin level is likely to be associated with an increase in blood oxygen content and blood oxygen delivery. However, above a critical level of hemoglobin, normovolemic anemia is well tolerated, and any increase in hemoglobin will fail to increase oxygen consumption and therefore to improve end‐organ oxygen supply. FFP is one way to address the coagulation factors deficiency induced by hemodilution, consumption, or hepatic insufficiency. The volume needed to increase these factors is not negligible. To avoid dilution and/or fluid overload, the use of clotting factor concentrate is recommended. The same remark can be made regarding the treatment of antithrombin III deficiency. Platelets infusion should be restricted to bleeding patients with thrombocytopenia and without surgical bleeding. In clinical studies, the prevention of bleeding through prophylactic infusion of platelets proved to be useless. Optimizing the use of blood products (avoiding overuse, underuse, and inappropriate use) is a challenging task in pediatric cardiac surgery. Data or guidelines cannot replace clinical judgment and the decision to transfuse is left to individual discretion, but the medical community needs to optimize its transfusion practice, otherwise policy‐makers without similar expertise may step in to regulate the use of blood products.
Elevated transaminases are common in children on prophylactic treatment for tuberculosis
Authors: Leeb Sara , Buxbaum Charlotte , Fischler Björn 
Published: January 2015

AbstractAimThe aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of elevated transaminase levels in children undergoing prophylactic treatment for tuberculosis (TB) infection.MethodsAll children living in a geographically defined area, who started TB prophylaxis during 2009–2011, were included. Data on background factors, treatment regimes and transaminase levels at baseline and follow‐up were collected retrospectively.ResultsOf the 277 children who were treated, 113 (41%) had elevated transaminase levels. Of these, 97 (35%) had levels that were less than three times the upper limit of the normal range and 16 (6%) had levels that were more than three times the normal range. Four patients had to discontinue isoniazid treatment and were successfully switched to rifampicin. In 17 patients, the highest transaminase peak did not occur until after 6 months of treatment. Elevated transaminases were significantly more common in patients below 9 years of age (62%) than in those aged 10–18 years (28%). Transaminases were elevated in 44% of all boys and 36% of all girls (p = 0.17).ConclusionTransaminase elevation was common in children receiving prophylactic treatment for TB and started at different points throughout the treatment period. Younger patients faced an increased risk. Regular blood tests are recommended throughout treatment.
Atypical sensory processing is common in extremely low gestational age children
Authors: Rahkonen Petri , Lano Aulikki , Pesonen Anu‐Katriina , Heinonen Kati , Räikkönen Katri , Vanhatalo Sampsa , Autti Taina , Valanne Leena , Andersson Sture , Metsäranta Marjo 
Published: January 2015

AbstractAimAtypical sensory processing is common in children born extremely prematurely. We investigated sensory processing abilities in extremely low gestational age (ELGA) children and analysed associated neonatal risk factors, neuroanatomical findings and neurodevelopmental outcome.MethodsWe carried out a prospective study of 44 ELGA children, including 42 who had undergone brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at term‐equivalent age, when they were 2 years of corrected age. Their sensory processing abilities were assessed with the Infant/Toddler Sensory Profile questionnaire and their neurodevelopmental with a structured Hempel neurological examination, Griffiths Mental Developmental Scales and Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development Third Edition.ResultsSensory profiles were definitely or probably atypical (<−1 SD) in half of the ELGA children, and the most common behavioural pattern was low registration (23%). Sensation seeking was associated with abnormalities in grey and/or white matter in the brain MRI (p < 0.01). Atypical oral sensory processing was associated with surgical closure of the patent ductus arteriosus (p = 0.02, adjusted p < 0.01).ConclusionAtypical sensory processing in ELGA children was common, and children with neonatal neuroanatomical lesions tended to present specific behavioural responses to sensory stimuli. Surgical closure of the patent ductus arteriosus may predispose infants to feeding problems due to atypical oral sensory processing.
The diagnostic criteria for allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis in children with poorly controlled asthma need to be re‐evaluated
Authors: Singh Meenu , Das Subhamoy , Chauhan Anil , Paul Nandini , Sodhi Kushaljit Singh , Mathew Joseph , Chakrabarti Arunaloke 
Published: January 2015

AbstractAimThe aim of this study was to examine the association between allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) and poorly controlled asthma in children and appraise the diagnostic criteria.MethodsThe study included 100 children with poorly controlled asthma. We diagnosed ABPA using the Aspergillus skin test, pulmonary function test, total and specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) to Aspergillus fumigatus, chest radiograph and high‐resolution computed tomography. Patients were diagnosed and classified according to the Rosenberg–Patterson criteria for ABPA. The cut‐off value for total serum IgE was calculated by receiver operating characteristics curve analysis.ResultsOf 100 children with poorly controlled asthma, 26 patients were ABPA positive. There was a significant difference in the forced expiratory volume in 1‐sec/forced vital capacity ratio between ABPA positive (0.78 ± 0.14) and negative (0.87 ± 0.15) children (p = 0.008). ABPA positive children were categorised as seropositive, central bronchiectasis and other radiological findings. The receiver operating characteristics curve was constructed, and a value of 1200 IU/mL of total IgE was observed, with 88.5% sensitivity and 70.5% specificity.ConclusionThis study showed an association between ABPA and poorly controlled asthma in children and suggests a higher cut‐off value of total IgE for the diagnosis of ABPA.