bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Variation in phenotypic plasticity and selection patterns in blue tit breeding time: between‐ and within‐population comparisons
Authors: Porlier Melody , Charmantier Anne , Bourgault Patrice , Perret Philippe , Blondel Jacques , Garant Dany 
Published: May 2012

Summary1. Phenotypic plasticity, the response of individual phenotypes to their environment, can allow organisms to cope with spatio‐temporal variation in environmental conditions. Recent studies have shown that variation exists among individuals in their capacity to adjust their traits to environmental changes and that this individual plasticity can be under strong selection. Yet, little is known on the extent and ultimate causes of variation between populations and individuals in plasticity patterns.2. In passerines, timing of breeding is a key life‐history trait strongly related to fitness and is known to vary with the environment, but few studies have investigated the within‐species variation in individual plasticity.3. Here, we studied between‐ and within‐population variation in breeding time, phenotypic plasticity and selection patterns for this trait in four Mediterranean populations of blue tits (Cyanistes caeruleus) breeding in habitats varying in structure and quality.4. Although there was no significant warming over the course of the study, we found evidence for earlier onset of breeding in warmer years in all populations, with reduced plasticity in the less predictable environment. In two of four populations, there was significant inter‐individual variation in plasticity for laying date. Interestingly, selection for earlier laying date was significant only in populations where there was no inter‐individual differences in plasticity.5. Our results show that generalization of plasticity patterns among populations of the same species might be challenging even at a small spatial scale and that the amount of within‐individual variation in phenotypic plasticity may be linked to selective pressures acting on these phenotypic traits.
Opening up to learning spiritual care of patients: a grounded theory study of nursing students
Authors: Giske Tove , Cone Pamela H 
Published: May 2012

Aim.  To determine undergraduate nursing students’ perspectives on spiritual care and how they learn to assess and provide spiritual care to patients.Background.  Nursing is concerned with holistic care. Systematic teaching and supervision of students to prepare them to assist patients spiritually is a growing focus. However, there is limited consensus about the competences students need to develop and little is written related to students learning processes.Design.  Grounded theory was used to identify students’ main concern and develop a substantive grounded theory.Method.  Data collected during semi‐structured interviews at three Norwegian University Colleges in eight focus groups with 42 undergraduate nursing students were analysed through constant comparison of transcribed interviews until categories were saturated.Results.  The participants’ main concern was ‘How to create a professional relationship with patients and maintain rapport when spiritual concerns were recognised’. Participants resolved this by ‘Opening up to learning spiritual care’. This basic social process has three iterative phases that develop as a spiral throughout the nursing programme: ‘Preparing for connection’, ‘Connecting with and supporting patients’ and ‘Reflecting on experiences’.Conclusion.  Nurses need a wide range of competences to fulfil the nursing focus on holistic patient care. Nursing education should prepare students to recognise and act on spiritual cues. A trusting relationship and respectful and sensitive communication assist students to discover what is important to patients. An educational focus on spiritual and existential themes throughout the nursing programme will assist students to integrate theoretical learning into clinical practice.Relevance to clinical practice.  Study participants reported seeing few role models in clinical settings. Making spiritual assessment and interventions more visible and explicit would facilitate student learning in clinical practice. Evaluative discussions in clinical settings that include spiritual concerns will enhance holistic care.
Costs and outcomes over 36 years of patients with phenylketonuria who do and do not remain on a phenylalanine‐restricted diet
Authors: Guest J. F. , Bai J. J. , Taylor R. R. , Sladkevicius E. , Lee P. J. , Lachmann R. H. 
Published: May 2012

AbstractBackground  To quantify the costs and consequences of managing phenylketonuria (PKU) in the UK and to estimate the potential implications to the UK's National Health Service (NHS) of keeping patients on a phenylalanine‐restricted diet for life.Methods  A computer‐based model was constructed depicting the management of PKU patients over the first 36 years of their life, derived from patients suffering from this metabolic disorder in The Health Improvement Network database (a nationally representative database of patients registered with general practitioners in the UK). The model was used to estimate the incidence of co‐morbidities and the levels of healthcare resource use and corresponding costs over the 36 years.Results  Patients who remained on a phenylalanine‐restricted diet accounted for 38% of the cohort. Forty‐seven per cent of patients discontinued their phenylalanine‐restricted diet between 15 and 25 years of age. Of these, 73% remained off diet and 27% restarted a restricted diet at a mean 30 years of age. Fifteen per cent of the cohort had untreated PKU. Eleven per cent of patients who remained on a phenylalanine‐restricted diet for 36 years received the optimum amount of prescribed amino acid supplements. Patients had a mean 12 general practitioner visits per year and one hospital outpatient visit annually, but phenylalanine levels were only measured once every 18 to 24 months. The mean NHS cost (at 2007/08 prices) of managing a PKU sufferer over the first 36 years of their life was estimated to range between £21 000 and £149 000, depending on the amount of prescribed nutrition they received.Conclusion  The findings suggest that the majority of patients with PKU were under‐treated. The NHS cost of patient management should not be an obstacle to encouraging patients to remain on a restricted diet until further information becomes available about the long‐term clinical impact of stopping such a diet. Nevertheless, patients require counselling and managed follow up regardless of the choices they make about their diet.
Evaluation of the predictive performance of a pharmacokinetic model for propofol in Japanese macaques (Macaca fuscata fuscata)
Authors: MIYABE‐NISHIWAKI T. , MASUI K. , KANEKO A. , NISHIWAKI K. , NISHIO T. , KANAZAWA H. 
Published: May 2012

Miyabe‐Nishiwaki, T., Masui, K., Kaneko, A., Nishiwaki, K., Nishio, T., Kanazawa, H. Evaluation of the predictive performance of a pharmacokinetic model for propofol in Japanese macaques (Macaca fuscata fuscata). J. vet. Pharmacol. Therap. 36, 169–173.Propofol is a short‐acting intravenous anesthetic used for induction/maintenance anesthesia. The objective of this study was to assess a population pharmacokinetic (PPK) model for Japanese macaques during a step‐down infusion of propofol. Five male Japanese macaques were immobilized with ketamine (10 mg/kg) and atropine (0.02 mg/kg). A bolus dose of propofol (5 mg/kg) was administrated intravenously (360 mg/kg/h) followed by step‐down infusion at 40 mg/kg/h for 10 min, 20 mg/kg/h for 10 min, and then 15 mg/kg/h for 100 min. Venous blood samples were repeatedly collected following the administration. The plasma concentration of propofol (Cp) was measured by high‐speed LC‐FL. PPK analyses were performed using NONMEM VII. Median absolute prediction error and median prediction error (MDPE), the indices of prediction inaccuracy and bias, respectively, were calculated, and PE − individual MDPE vs. time was depicted to show the variability of prediction errors. In addition, we developed another population pharmacokinetic model using previous and current datasets. The previous PK model achieved stable prediction of propofol Cp throughout the study period, although it underestimates Cp. The step‐down infusion regimen described in this study would be feasible in macaques during noninvasive procedures.
Capturing the dynamics of systemic Renin‐Angiotensin‐Aldosterone System (RAAS) peptides heightens the understanding of the effect of benazepril in dogs
Authors: MOCHEL J. P. , PEYROU M. , FINK M. , STREHLAU G. , MOHAMED R. , GIRAUDEL J. M. , PLOEGER B. , DANHOF M. 
Published: May 2012

Mochel, J. P., Peyrou, M, Fink, M, Strehlau, G, Mohamed, R, Giraudel, J. M., Ploeger, B, Danhof, M. Capturing the dynamics of systemic Renin‐Angiotensin‐Aldosterone System (RAAS) peptides heightens the understanding of the effect of benazepril in dogs.J. vet. Pharmacol. Therap. 36, 174–180.In dogs, activation of the Renin‐Angiotensin‐Aldosterone System (RAAS) is an important feature of congestive heart failure (CHF). Long‐term increases in angiotensin II (AII) and aldosterone (ALD) lead to the progression of heart failure to its end stage. Angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) are the foremost therapeutic option in the management of CHF. Recent literature has challenged the efficacy of ACEIs, based on modest reduction in urinary aldosterone (UALD) excretion despite marked inhibition of ACE activity. This study was designed to heighten the understanding of the effect of benazepril, a potent ACEI, on the RAAS, using a low‐sodium diet as an experimental model of RAAS activation. Time course profiles of RAAS peptides and related areas under the curve (AUC24 hours) were used for comparison between benazepril and placebo groups. Results indicated substantial changes in the dynamics of these biomarkers. At presumed benazeprilat steady state, significant differences in AUC24 hoursof plasma renin activity (+90%), angiotensin I (+43%), and AII (−53%) were found between benazepril and placebo‐treated dogs. ALD decreased by 73% in plasma but only by 5% in urine. In conclusion, despite modest reduction in UALD excretion, benazepril markedly influences RAAS dynamics in dogs.
Spontaneous expression of FRA16B in a non‐consanguineous couple experiencing multiple fetal losses
Authors: Aswini Sivasankaran , Jegatheesan ThankaNadar , Chandra Nallathambi 
Published: May 2012

AbstractThe association between fragile sites and human genetic diseases is still debatable. Although FRAXA and FRAXE have been found to be associated with mental retardation and FRA11B possibly with Jacobsen syndrome, no other autosomal fragile site has yet been found to have a direct correlation with a genetic disorder; however, the frequency of fragile sites in infertile couples has been reported to be higher than in a control group. The occurrence of a fragile site can therefore be a possible risk factor causing considerable anxiety to the clinician and probably requires follow up with appropriate genetic counseling. The present study reports heterozygosity for FRA16B in both partners of an infertile non‐consanguineous couple married for 9 years. They had been referred for cytogenetic evaluation with the complaint of multiple fetal losses.
Cutaneous metastasis from primary adenocarcinoma of the vagina: A case report
Authors: Nakai Hidekastu , Watanabe Yoh , Etoh Tomomaro , Kimura Masatomo , Hoshiai Hiroshi 
Published: May 2012

AbstractCutaneous metastasis in vaginal cancer is an extremely rare event and no cases of cutaneous metastasis from primary vaginal adenocarcinoma have been found. We report the clinicopathologic features, including cytopathologic findings, of the first case of cutaneous metastasis to the anterior chest wall from a sporadic‐type advanced primary vaginal adenocarcinoma. Our present case suggested that cytopathologic examination should be performed as soon as possible when a patient exhibits multiple subcutaneous nodules or a painful cutaneous ulcer during treatment of advanced gynecologic cancer.
Presynaptic inhibition of glutamate transmission by α2 receptors in the VTA
Authors: Jiménez‐Rivera Carlos A. , Figueroa Johnny , Vázquez‐Torres Rafael , Vélez‐Hernandez María E. , Schwarz David , Velásquez‐Martinez María C. , Arencibia‐Albite Francisco 
Published: May 2012

AbstractThe ventral tegmental area (VTA) forms part of the mesocorticolimbic system and plays a pivotal role in reward and reinforcing actions of drugs of abuse. Glutamate transmission within the VTA controls important aspects of goal‐directed behavior and motivation. Noradrenergic receptors also present in the VTA have important functions in the modulation of neuronal activity. Here we studied the effects of α2 noradrenergic receptor activation in the alteration of glutamate neurotransmission in VTA dopaminergic neurons from male Sprague–Dawley rats. We used whole‐cell patch‐clamp recordings from putative VTA dopaminergic neurons and measured excitatory postsynaptic currents. Clonidine (40 μm) and UK 14,304 (40 μm), both α2 receptor agonists, reduced (approximately 40%) the amplitude of glutamate‐induced excitatory postsynaptic currents. After clonidine administration, there was a dose‐dependent reduction over the concentration range of 15–40 μm. Using yohimbine (20 μm) and two other α2 adrenergic receptor antagonists, idaxozan (40 μm) and atipemazole (20 μm), we demonstrated that the inhibitory action is specifically mediated by α2 receptors. Moreover, by inhibiting protein kinases with H‐7 (75 μm), Rp‐adenosine 3′,5′‐cyclic (11 μm) and chelerythrine (1 μm) it was shown that the clonidine‐induced inhibition seems to involve a selective activation of the protein kinase C intracellular pathway. Increased paired‐pulse ratios and changes in spontaneous and miniature excitatory postsynaptic current frequencies but not amplitudes indicated that the effect of the α2 agonist was presynaptically mediated. It is suggested that the suppression of glutamate excitatory inputs onto VTA dopaminergic neurons might be relevant in the regulation of reward and drug‐seeking behaviors.
Species abundance patterns of coccinellid communities associated with olive, chestnut and almond crops in north‐eastern Portugal
Authors: Santos Sónia A. P. , Raimundo Armando , Bento Albino , Pereira José A. 
Published: May 2012

The patterns of abundance of coccinellid species associated to the main agricultural tree crops of north‐eastern Portugal namely olive, chestnut and almond were studied.
During three to four crop seasons, eight olive, five chestnut and one almond groves were sampled. In each grove, five samples were collected from 10 randomly selected trees using the beating technique and the coccinellids were counted and identified to species. Principal component analysis was used to establish associations among crop and coccinellid species.
The mean species richness was higher in chestnut, with 15 ± 3.81 species/grove, followed by olive and almond, with 13 ± 2.76 and 10 ± 2.97 species/grove, respectively. Scymnus mediterraneus was the most abundant species in olive and almond, whereas Scymnus interruptus was dominant in chestnut. Brumus quadripustulatus, Chilocorus bipustulatus, Scymnus subvillosus, S. mediterraneus and Rhyzobius chrysomeloides were associated with olive, whereas S. interruptus, Coccinella septempunctata and Adalia decempunctata were associated with chestnut and Hippodamia variegata, Oenopia conglobata and Adalia bipunctata with almond. Both Stethorus punctillum and Scymnus apetzi species were similarly associated with chestnut and almond.
The differences in coccinellid communities could have been related to the kind of prey item present in the different trees. This knowledge can be used to develop integrated pest management programmes that encourage greater natural enemy biodiversity in agroecosystems.
Prevalence, transmission and mortality associated with Nosema fumiferanae infections in field populations of spruce budworm Choristoneura fumiferana
Authors: Eveleigh Eldon S. , Lucarotti Christopher J. , McCarthy Peter C. , Morin Benoit 
Published: May 2012

The prevalence, intensity and transmission of Nosema fumiferanae (Thomson) (Microsporidae) infections and potential impacts on the survival of field populations of spruce budworm Choristoneura fumiferana (Clem.) were examined in three plots in New Brunswick, Canada, from 1983 to 1992.
The highest prevalence of N. fumiferanae infection in post‐hibernation second‐instar larvae occurred in the plot where prevalence in female pupae was the highest in the previous generation, suggesting higher rates of vertical transmission. There was little change in the prevalence of N. fumiferanae infections between the second and sixth instars in the later generations. In the two other plots, N. fumiferanae prevalence increased by approximately 25% from the second to sixth larval stadia. Coincident with the changes in N. fumiferanae prevalence were substantial declines in the populations of spruce budworms, making it difficult to determine rates of horizontal transfer of the disease.
In all plots and in all years, there were progressive increases in the intensity of N. fumiferanae infections (spore loads/individual) from the second to sixth instars and pupae.
Annual spruce budworm mortality associated with N. fumiferanae was ≤15% of all mortality in reared specimens and was positively correlated with but generally less than 30% of annual N. fumiferanae prevalence.
Effects of saxagliptin and sitagliptin on glycaemic control and pancreatic β‐cell mass in a streptozotocin‐induced mouse model of type 2 diabetes
Authors: Poucher S. M. , Cheetham S. , Francis J. , Zinker B. , Kirby M. , Vickers S. P. 
Published: May 2012

AimsWe examined the effects of the oral dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 (DPP‐4) inhibitor saxagliptin on glycaemic control and pancreatic β‐cell mass and morphology in a mouse model of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).MethodsMale C57BL/6 mice (n = 12/group) aged 4 to 6 weeks and weighing >15 g received a high‐fat diet throughout this 45‐day study. After a 7‐day handling period, baseline levels of plasma glucose, plasma insulin and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) were assessed. Animals were allocated to one of six groups: compound vehicle control, intraperitoneal streptozotocin (STZ, 50 mg/kg)‐treated control and saxagliptin (10 mg/kg) or sitagliptin (10 mg/kg, positive control) initiated 7 days before or 1 day after STZ administration. Endpoints included changes in body weight, food and water consumption, glucose tolerance (approximately 3 weeks post‐STZ), fasting glucose and HbA1c and immunohistochemical analyses of the pancreas.ResultsBody weight, weight gain and food intake were reduced in STZ versus control mice. DPP‐4 inhibitor treatment did not affect these changes, but the increase in water intake observed post‐STZ administration was significantly attenuated with DPP‐4 inhibitors whether initiated before or after STZ injury. Small but significant improvements in glycaemic control were observed with DPP‐4 inhibitors versus the STZ control. Improved β‐cell mass and morphology were observed with saxagliptin given pre‐ or post‐STZ and sitagliptin given post‐STZ.ConclusionsSaxagliptin mitigated damage to β‐cells and improved glycaemic control in this mouse model of T2DM.
Antecedents of Board Composition: The Role of Nomination Committees
Authors: Kaczmarek Szymon , Kimino Satomi , Pye Annie 
Published: May 2012

ABSTRACTManuscript Type: EmpiricalResearch Question/Issue: The global financial crisis in 2008 has generated increasing recognition of the importance of board diversity reflected amidst the capabilities and skills of directors on a board. As the primary institutional mechanism designed to strengthen the director selection process, nomination committees (NCs) occupy centre stage of this discussion. However, there is a dearth of studies which focus either specifically on NCs or on diversity as a board composition outcome. In this study, we examine the research question of the likely antecedents in terms of NC characteristics of two board composition outcomes, i.e., diversity as variety in terms of gender and nationality, and diversity as separation in terms of a board demographic faultline.Research Findings/Insights: For a panel of FTSE350 companies from 1999 to 2008, we find that the increasing presence on the NC of females or non‐British nationals is likely to have a positive impact on the level of board gender and nationality diversity, respectively. In addition, we report that the presence of the chief executive officer (CEO) on the NC is found to interact with the NC independence, as a result of which a board demographic faultline is likely to emerge.Theoretical/Academic Implications: We bring together three concepts from social psychology research to create the theoretical basis for our study of the influence of NCs on board diversity: these are similarity‐attraction, homosocial reproduction, and social identity. The strong empirical findings suggest that these socio‐psychological dimensions are applicable to the operations of NCs, which has implications for the outcomes of the director nomination and selection process, and consequently also for board composition.Practitioner/Policy Implications: Our research indicates that NC characteristics are significant antecedents of board diversity, hence composition of the NC is an important step and pre‐requisite for assembling a diverse board. For example, appointing females and/or non‐nationals to the NC increases the likelihood of greater representation of females and/or non‐nationals on the entire board. At the same time, our evidence suggests that the presence of the CEO amidst the majority of non‐executive directors (NEDs) on the NC is detrimental for board cohesiveness.
Fertility, Female Labor Supply, and Family Policy‡
Authors: Fehr Hans , Ujhelyiova Daniela 
Published: May 2012

Abstract
The present paper develops an overlapping generations general equilibrium model for Germany in order to study the impact of public policy on household labor supply and fertility decisions. Starting from a benchmark equilibrium which reflects the current German family policy regime we introduce various reforms of the tax and child benefit system and quantify the consequences for birth rates and female labor supply. Our simulations indicate three central results: First, higher transfers to families (either direct, in-kind or via family splitting) may increase birth rates significantly, but they may come at the cost of lower female employment. Second, the introduction of individual taxation (instead of joint taxation of couples) would increase female employment but might further reduce current birth rates in Germany. Third, it is possible to increase birth rates and female employment rates simultaneously if the government invests in child care facilities for children of all ages.