bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of cross‐cultural absorptive capacity in the effectiveness of in‐country cross‐cultural training
Authors: Tarique Ibraiz , Caligiuri Paula
Published: July 2009

Based on the theory of absorptive capacity, this study examines the following question. In the context of cross‐cultural training, can the amount of previously accumulated cultural knowledge affect the ability of a trainee to absorb further learning about a new culture, thus enhancing total knowledge and presumably cross‐cultural adjustment? In‐country cross‐cultural training was hypothesized to be more effective when the training components are divided and the sessions are distributed over time – resulting in increased cultural knowledge and greater cross‐cultural adjustment. Results from an experimental design suggested that in‐country cross‐cultural training can increase cultural knowledge, when distributed over time. The results also suggested that the training group had greater differences between pre‐training and post‐training scores on cross‐cultural adjustment, but the differences were not statistically different. The results, methodology and conclusions can be generalized to a variety of populations (e.g. international managers and expatriates) and organizations (e.g. multinationals). For international managers and expatriates, the results showed that in‐country cross‐cultural training, like predeparture cross‐cultural training, is also a viable intervention for knowledge acquisition.
Training corporate managers to adopt a more autonomy‐supportive motivating style toward employees: an intervention study
Authors: Hardré Patricia L. , Reeve Johnmarshall
Published: July 2009

Management style is treated in a variety of ways across the training and development literature. Yet few studies have tested the training‐based malleability of management style in a for‐profit, authentic work context. The present research tested whether or not training intervention would help managers adopt a more autonomy‐supportive motivating style toward employees and whether or not the employees of these managers would, in turn, show greater autonomous motivation and workplace engagement. Using an intervention‐based experimental design, 25 managers from a Fortune 500 company received training consistent with self‐determination theory on how to support the autonomy of the 169 employees they supervised. Five weeks after the managers in the experimental group participated in the training, they displayed a significantly more autonomy‐supportive managerial style than did nontrained managers in a control group. Further, the employees they supervised showed, 5 weeks later, significantly more autonomous motivation and greater workplace engagement than did employees supervised by control‐group managers. We discuss the malleability of managers' motivating styles, the benefits to employees when managers become more autonomy supportive, and recommendations for future training interventions and research.
Migration Prediction On The Basis Of Prior Migratory Behavior: A Methodological Note
Authors: Rogers T. W.
Published: July 2009

Stochastic process analysis, particularly Markov chain dependence, may be utilized in a wide range of research situations where change through time is the focus of interest. This paper is concerned with the utility of Markov chain analysis in the prediction of future migration on the basis of past migratory behavior. Transition probability matrices, which were dependent on the respondent's migratory behavior in the preceding time interval, were utilized to predict migration in the following time interval for a series of 145 longitudinal case histories. Predictions were also obtained for selected age, educational, and occupational stratifications. Markov chain analysis, or a similar probability model, seems to provide a promising tool for studying the relationship between prior and expected migration, and for obtaining statements of migration probability. Since a high proportion of total migrations seem to be made by a limited segment of the population, the factor of past migratory behavior itself may be an important element in the identification of migration differentials and the prediction of future migration.
Immigrants and Refugees: Their Similarities, Differences, and Needs
Authors: BERNARD WILLIAM S.
Published: July 2009

In December 1976, the Director of the Intergovernmental Committee for European Migration (ICEM), Mr. John F. Thomas, addressed a Seminar of the American Immigration and Citizenship Conference in New York, where the author of this article, Dr William S. Bernard, Chairman of the Committee on lntegration of the American Immigration and Citizenship Conference and Emeritus Director of the Center for Migration Studies, Brooklyn College, City University of New York, was honoured for his eminent work and contributions on the world‐wide problems of voluntary and forced migratory movements and especially the human aspectsinvolved.

The editors of International Migrarion hope that this eminent author will also in future con‐ tribute his valuable articles to this periodical.
Obtaining the views of children and young people with autism spectrum disorders about their experience of daily life and social care support
Authors: Preece David , Jordan Rita
Published: July 2009

Accessible summary

 Children with autism spectrum disorders (aged 7–18 years) were interviewed about their experience of living at home and in short term care.

 Parents and caregivers were also interviewed and, when the child had little or no speech, he or she was observed in both settings.

 Pictures and schedules were used to prompt the children but using them, or allowing parents to interrupt, sometimes made it difficult to be sure that the children’s views were completely their own.

 It was also important to use questions that meant something to the children.

 The children were generally happy with their life at home. Those who went for short‐term breaks liked some activities and individuals, but some did not like the noise and the rules.

Children with autism spectrum disorders (10 boys and 4 girls aged 7 to 18 years) from a shire county in England were interviewed as part of a study examining the experience and attitudes of families towards daily life and short breaks support. Techniques for obtaining consent and eliciting the children’s views are detailed, including triangulation of data. Data were collected on the children’s experience of day‐to‐day life, social workers, and short breaks services, and their wishes. Qualitative data analysis was undertaken using a template approach. The children were positive about family life, although most activities reported were solitary. None understood the role of social workers. Those who attended short breaks enjoyed some activities and peers’ company but were disturbed by noise and staff discipline. Difficulties faced in carrying out the research, and limitations arising from the research methods and the nature of ASD are acknowledged, and factors that were helpful in the process are identified.
Non‐indigenous ungulates as a threat to biodiversity
Authors: Spear D. , Chown S. L.
Published: July 2009

Non‐indigenous ungulate species pose a problem for conservation. They can be socially and economically valuable, but are also potentially harmful to biodiversity. Therefore, their introduction requires an explicit assessment of risk relative to benefit. To conduct such risk assessments, information regarding the impacts of non‐indigenous ungulates on biodiversity is required. Here, we review the available evidence for the biodiversity impacts of non‐indigenous ungulates. Hybridization, exploitation and apparent competition, vegetation impacts, predation, facilitation, trophic cascades and soil system functioning were assessed using a hierarchical set of criteria for the strength of the evidence. Strong evidence was lacking for risks posed by competition. Numerous reports exist of hybridization in captivity between ungulate species that normally do not co‐occur, but conclusive evidence for introgression in the wild was restricted to one case. Strong evidence (using exclosure experiments) for the impacts of introduced ungulates on vegetation structure and composition was found and in some cases introduced ungulates caused the extirpation of plant species. Predation bySus scrofais a substantial threat to island faunas and systems, and impacts on soil system functioning elsewhere have also been found. Facilitation by ungulates has been shown to be substantial in promoting invasive plant species. By contrast, little evidence exists for apparent competition. The largest impacts from introduced ungulates are likely to be in cases where they perform novel functions in the new environment. However, to determine which types of impacts are likely to be most problematic, further evidence is required, ideally from well‐designed field experiments.
Benefit of therapeutic drug monitoring of protease inhibitors in HIV‐infected patients depends on PI used in HAART regimen – ANRS 111 trial
Authors: Duval Xavier , Mentré France , Rey Elisabeth , Auleley Solange , Peytavin Gilles , Biour Michel , Métro Annie , Goujard Cecile , Taburet Anne‐Marie , Lascoux Cecile , Panhard Xaviere , Tréluyer Jean‐Marc , Salmon‐Céron Dominique ,   the Cophar 2 study group
Published: July 2009

As a result of high inter‐patient variability, and efficacy–concentration and toxicity–concentration relationships, optimization of HIV‐protease inhibitor (PI) doses based on plasma concentrations could be beneficial. During a 48‐week open prospective non‐randomized interventional study of 115 protease inhibitor‐naïve patients initiating an indinavir/ritonavir‐ or lopinavir/ritonavir‐, or nelfinavir‐containing therapy, protease inhibitor dose was modified when plasma trough concentrations (Ctrough) at weeks 2, 8, 16 and 24 were outside predefined optimal concentration ranges. Failure of the strategy was defined as the proportions of patients with HIV‐RNA above 200 copies/mL from weeks 24 to 48 and/or experiencing grades 2, 3 or 4 PI‐related adverse events during the study; proportion of patients with last Ctrough measurement outside the concentration range was determined at each visit. Virological failure and/or occurrence of adverse event were observed in 37/94 assessable patients (39%; 95% CI: 29.4–50.0). In the on‐treatment analysis, failure of the strategy was noted in 16% of indinavir/r‐ or lopinavir/r‐treated patients (8/51; 95% CI: 7.0–28.6; virological failure: 2; adverse event: 6) but in 44% of nelfinavir‐treated patients (11/25; 95% CI: 24.4–65.1; virological failure: 10; adverse event: 1); Ctrough concentrations outside the range were less frequent at the last measurement than at W2 (41% vs. 66%; P < 0.05), with proportions of 35% for indinavir/r‐ or lopinavir/r‐treated patients, but 57% for nelfinavir‐treated patients. The proposed strategy of therapeutic drug monitoring may be beneficial to indinavir/r‐ and lopinavir/r‐treated patients, but failed to move concentrations into the predefined range and to produce the expected virological success for nelfinavir‐treated patients.
Pharmacological screening of bryophyte extracts that inhibit growth and induce abnormal phenotypes in human HeLa cancer cells
Authors: Krzaczkowski Lucie , Wright Michel , Rebérioux Delphine , Massiot Georges , Etiévant Chantal , Gairin Jean Edouard
Published: July 2009

Antitumor activities of substances from natural sources apart from vascular plants and micro‐organisms have been poorly investigated. Here we report on a pharmacological screening of a bryophyte extract library using a phenotypic cell‐based assay revealing microtubules, centrosomes and DNA. Among the 219 moss extracts tested, we identified 41 extracts acting on cell division with various combinations of significant effects on interphasic and mitotic cells. Seven extracts were further studied using a cell viability assay, cell cycle analysis and the phenotypic assay. Three distinct pharmacological patterns were identified including two unusual phenotypes.
Anti‐diarrhoeal and ulcer‐protective effects of violacein isolated fromChromobacterium violaceumin Wistar rats
Authors: Antonisamy Paulrayer , Kannan Ponnusamy , Ignacimuthu Savarimuthu
Published: July 2009

Violacein was isolated fromChromobacterium violaceum, a soil Gram‐negative bacterium collected from the forest water body soil sample from Kolli Hills of Tamil Nadu, India. In the present study the anti‐diarrhoeal and ulcer‐protective properties of violacein were investigated in Wistar rats using castor oil, magnesium sulphate and ethanol. The intestinal transit in rats was significantly (P < 0.001) reduced and gastric emptying was delayed; 40 mg/kg of violacein elicited a greater anti‐motility activity than 0.1 mg/kg of atropine. Violacein exhibited ulcer‐protective properties against ethanol‐induced ulceration in rats with maximal anti‐ulcer activity at 40 mg/kg. Violacein also exerted significant anti‐enteropooling effects, causing a dose‐related inhibitory effect on castor oil‐induced enteropooling in rats. A profound anti‐diarrhoeal activity was observed when violacein was tested in diarrhoeic rats. The frequencies of defaecation as well as the wetness of the faecal droppings were significantly reduced. Furthermore, violacein (40 mg/kg) produced 87.84% inhibition of castor oil‐induced diarrhoea in rats. The results suggested that violacein can be used for the treatment of diarrhoeal and ulcer‐related diseases.
Effect of coadministered HIV‐protease inhibitors on tacrolimus and sirolimus blood concentrations in a kidney transplant recipients
Authors: Barau Caroline , Blouin P. , Creput Caroline , Taburet A.M. , Durrbach Antoine , Furlan Valérie
Published: July 2009

A patient with human immunodeficiency virus infection and end‐stage renal disease received a renal transplant. At the time of surgery, the patient was on quadruple antiretroviral therapy (lamivudine, zidovudine, and amprenavir/ritonavir). Immunosuppression was initiated with basiliximab, corticosteroid, mycophenolate mofetil, and a single 0.5 mg dose of tacrolimus. In the following days, an increase in tacrolimus concentration was observed with a peak of 37 ng/mL. Tacrolimus half‐life was 6.5 days and tacrolimus maintenance dose was 0.5 mg every 4 days. Eleven months later, the patient had developed Kaposi sarcoma. Tacrolimus was replaced by sirolimus (first dose 1 mg), and the patient was stabilized with 1.5 mg of sirolimus once a week. Increased tacrolimus half‐life and increased dose interval of sirolimus and tacrolimus were due to CYP3A4/5 and/or P‐glycoprotein inhibition by protease inhibitors. Close monitoring is required in the management of tacrolimus and sirolimus dosing regimens when combined with ritonavir boosted HIV‐1 protease inhibitors.
Current status of malaria chemotherapy and the role of pharmacology in antimalarial drug research and development
Authors: Na‐Bangchang Kesara , Karbwang Juntra
Published: July 2009

Antimalarial drugs have played a mainstream role in controlling the spread of malaria through the treatment of patients infected with the plasmodial parasites and controlling its transmissibility. The inadequate armory of drugs in widespread use for the treatment of malaria, development of strains resistant to currently used antimalarials, and the lack of affordable new drugs are the limiting factors in the fight against malaria. In addition, other problems with some existing agents include unfavorable pharmacokinetic properties and adverse effects/toxicity. These factors underscore the continuing need of research for new classes of antimalarial agents, and a re‐examination of the existing antimalarial drugs that may be effective against resistant strains. In recent years, major advances have been made in the pharmacology of several antimalarial drugs both in pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics aspects. These include the design, development, and optimization of appropriate dosage regimens of antimalarials, basic knowledge in metabolic pathways of key antimalarials, as well as the elucidation of mechanisms of action and resistance of antimalarials. Pharmacologists have been working in close collaboration with scientists in other disciplines of science/biomedical sciences for more understanding on the biology of the parasite, host, in order to exploit rational design of drugs. Multiple general approaches to the identification of new antimalarials are being pursued at this time. All should be implemented in parallel with focus on the rational development of new agents directed against newly identified parasite targets. With major advances in our understanding of malaria parasite biology coupled with the completion of the malaria genome, has presented exciting opportunities for target‐based antimalarial drug discovery.
Underlying mechanism of penehyclidine hydrochloride on isolated rat uterus
Authors: Xiao Hong‐tao , Liao Zhi , Meng Xian‐min , Yan Xiao‐yan , Chen Shu‐jie , Mo Zheng‐ji
Published: July 2009

We investigated the underlying mechanisms of penehyclidine hydrochloride (PHC), a novel selective anticholinergic drug on isolated rat uterus. The method of radio‐immunity assay was further employed to determine cyclic adenosine mono phosphate (cAMP) levels in isolated rat uterus for comparing with selective effect on muscarinic receptor subtypes. In the assay, PHC could decrease the content of cAMP in isolated rat uterus, but the difference was not statistically significant at dose of 10 μmol/L. In conclusion, our results suggested that PHC has no or poor effect on M2receptor subtypes in isolated rat uterus.
Maintained cerebral metabolic ratio during exercise in patients with β‐adrenergic blockade
Authors: Gam Christiane M. B. , Rasmussen Peter , Secher Niels H. , Seifert Thomas , Larsen Fin S. , Nielsen Henning B.
Published: July 2009

Background:  Decreased cerebral metabolic ratio (CMR) [molar uptake of O2 versus molar uptake of (glucose + ½ lactate)] during exercise is attenuated by intravenous administration of the non‐selective β‐adrenergic receptor antagonist propranolol. We evaluated to what extent cirrhotic patients in oral treatment with propranolol are able to mobilize brain non‐oxidative carbohydrate metabolism.

Methods:  Incremental cycle ergometry to exhaustion (86 ± 4·2 W; mean ± SD) was performed in eight cirrhotic patients instrumented with a catheter in the brachial artery and one retrograde in the right internal jugular vein. Healthy subjects form the control group.

Results:  In β‐blocked cirrhotic patients arterial lactate increased from 1·5 ± 0·3 to 5·1 ± 0·8 mM (P<0·05) and the arterial–jugular venous difference (a–v diff) from −0·01 ± 0·03 to 0·30 ± 0·05 mM (P<0·05) at rest and during exercise, respectively. During exercise the glucose a–v diff of 0·46 ± 0·06 mM remained at a level similar to rest (0·54 ± 0·03 mM) and at exhaustion the CMR was not significantly changed (5·8 ± 1·1 versus 6·0 ± 0·6). In controls, CMR decreased from 5·6 ± 0·9 at rest to 3·4 ± 0·7 (P<0·05) during maximal exercise and at a lactate level comparable to that achieved by the patients it was 3·8 ± 0·4.

Conclusion:  During exhaustive exercise in cirrhotic patients the CMR is maintained and a significant cerebral uptake of lactate is demonstrated. The data suggest that oral treatment with a non‐selective β‐adrenergic receptor antagonist attenuates cerebral non‐oxidative metabolism.
Testing times: Exploring staged responses and the impact of blame management strategies in two examination fiasco cases
Authors: HOOD CHRISTOPHER , JENNINGS WILL , DIXON RUTH , HOGWOOD BRIAN , BEESTON CRAIG
Published: July 2009

This article examines the responses of ministers facing high levels of blame in the press after serious failures in the public exam system for school‐leavers in Scotland in 2000 and England in 2002. It develops a method for systematic analysis and comparison of the behaviour of officeholders facing blame, tests the hypothesis that ministers will accept personal culpability only after other ways of handling blame have been exhausted and uses time series intervention models to show how one can estimate the impact of strategies on the next day's blame level. The basic sequencing hypothesis is partially upheld by the observed behaviour in these cases, though many other kinds of blame responses do not display a clear sequence. The intervention analysis also raises questions about the claimed effectiveness of presentational strategies for managing blame.
The TFS mini‐sling for uterine/vault prolapse repair: A three‐year follow‐up review
Authors: PETROS Peter E. P. , RICHARDSON Peter A.
Published: July 2009

Aims: To assess the three‐year prolapse recurrence rate of the tissue fixation system (TFS) posterior mini‐sling, an operation that works much like a McCall procedure.

Patients and methods: Patients who originally presented with major symptomatic prolapse were contacted by telephone three years after a posterior TFS mini‐sling operation, and invited to attend for review. All patients were questioned as to recurrence of any lumps, ‘dragging pain’, satisfaction with the procedure and existence of any vaginal discharge.

Results: Of the original group of 39 patients, 35 were interviewed, 22 attended for review and four patients were uncontactable. Symptomatic cure was reported by 30 patients (86%), improvement in two (6%), and failure in three (9%).

Conclusions: The longer‐term results from the TFS posterior sling are encouraging. The procedure is evolving, and more studies are required.
Detection and management of decreased fetal movements in Australia and New Zealand: A survey of obstetric practice
Authors: FLENADY Vicki , MacPHAIL Julie , GARDENER Glenn , CHADHA Yogesh , MAHOMED Kassam , HEAZELL Alexander , FRETTS Ruth , FRØEN Frederik
Published: July 2009

Background:  Decreased fetal movement (DFM) is associated with increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcome. However, there is limited research to inform practice in the detection and management of DFM.

Aims:  To identify current practices and views of obstetricians in Australia and New Zealand regarding DFM.

Methods:  A postal survey of Fellows and Members, and obstetric trainees of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.

Results:  Of the 1700 surveys distributed, 1066 (63%) were returned, of these, 805 (76% of responders) were currently practising and included in the analysis. The majority considered that asking women about fetal movement should be a part of routine care. Sixty per cent reported maternal perception of DFM for 12 h was sufficient evidence of DFM and 77% DFM for 24 h. KICK charts were used routinely by 39%, increasing to 66% following an episode of DFM. Alarm limits varied, the most commonly reported was < 10 movements in 12 h (74%). Only 6% agreed with the internationally recommended definition of < 10 movements in two hours. Interventions for DFM varied, while 81% would routinely undertake a cardiotocograph, 20% would routinely perform ultrasound and 20% more frequent antenatal visits.

Conclusions:  While monitoring fetal movement is an important part of antenatal care in Australia and New Zealand, variation in obstetric practice for DFM is evident. Large‐scale randomised controlled trials are required to identify optimal screening and management options. In the interim, high quality clinical practice guidelines using the best available advice are needed to enhance consistency in practice including advice provided to women.
Osteopontin expression correlates with invasiveness in cervical cancer
Authors: SONG Jae Yun , LEE Jae Kwan , LEE Nak Woo , YEOM Bom Woo , KIM Sun Haeng , LEE Kyu Wan
Published: July 2009

Aim: Osteopontin is a secreted, integrin‐binding glycophosphoprotein that is overexpressed in many types of cancers and appears to be involved in carcinogenesis and cancer progression. To understand the role of osteopontin in carcinogenesis of cervical cancer, this study was designed to determine whether osteopontin is expressed in cervical cancer and carcinoma in situ (CIS) tissue as well as in normal cervical tissue.

Methods: The expression of osteopontin was immunohistochemically analysed from 68 normal cervix, 55 CIS and 52 invasive cervical cancer tissues using a paraffin‐embedded tissue array. Immunostaining was evaluated by intensity and the percentage of stained cells.

Results: Osteopontin expression in normal, CIS and cervical cancer tissues was two of 68 (2.9%), 43 of 55 (78.2%) and 46 of 52 (88.4%), respectively (P < 0.01). High intensity (strong positive)/high proportion (more than 50%) staining seen in CIS and cervical cancer tissue samples was 45 of 55 (81.8%)/22 of 55 (40.0%) and 50 of 52 (96.2%)/31 of 52 (59.7%), respectively (P = 0.029 and P = 0.054). There was no significant correlation between the immunostaining score and stage and the immunostaining score and survival.

Conclusion: Osteopontin may have a potential use as a diagnostic factor for cervical cancer and osteopontin expression is closely correlated with carcinogenesis and invasion of cervical cancer.
Relevance of gastrointestinal symptoms in endometriosis
Authors: MAROUN Paulette , COOPER Michael J. W. , REID Geoffrey D. , KEIRSE Marc J. N. C.
Published: July 2009

Background: Endometriosis commonly presents with a range of symptoms none of which are particularly specific for the condition, often resulting in misdiagnosis or delay in diagnosis.

Aim: To investigate gastrointestinal symptoms in women with endometriosis and compare their frequency with that of the classical gynaecological symptoms.

Methods: Systematic exploration of symptoms in a consecutive series of 355 women undergoing operative laparoscopy for suspected endometriosis.

Results: Endometriosis was confirmed by histology in 290 women (84.5%). Bowel lesions were present in only 7.6%. Ninety per cent of women had gastrointestinal symptoms, of which bloating was the most common (82.8%), but 71.3% also had other bowel symptoms. All gastrointestinal symptoms were similarly predictive of histologically confirmed endometriosis. Seventy‐six women (21.4%) had previously been diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome and 79% of them had endometriosis confirmed.

Conclusion: Gastrointestinal symptoms are nearly as common as gynaecological symptoms in women with endometriosis and do not necessarily reflect bowel involvement.
Characterization of the Potent 5‐HT1A /BReceptor Antagonist and Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor SB‐649915: Preclinical Evidence for Hastened Onset of Antidepressant/Anxiolytic Efficacy
Authors: Watson Jeannette M. , Dawson Lee A.
Published: July 2009

An increase in brain serotonin (5‐HT) levels is thought to be a key mechanism of action responsible for generating antidepressant efficacy. It has been proven that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are effective antidepressants, but the delay to therapeutic onset of these agents is thought to be due to the time required for 5‐HT1A,and possibly 5‐HT1B, autoreceptors to desensitize. Therefore, an agent incorporating 5‐HT reuptake inhibition coupled with 5‐HT1Aand/or 5‐HT1Bautoreceptor antagonism may provide a fast‐acting clinical agent. The current studies review the profile of SB‐649915 (6‐[(1‐{2‐[(2‐methylquinolin‐5‐yl)oxy]ethyl}piperidin‐4‐yl)methyl]‐2H‐1,4‐benzoxazin‐3(4H)‐one), a novel compound with high affinity for human (h) 5‐HT1Aand 5‐HT1Breceptors (pKivalues of 8.6 and 8.0, respectively) as well as the (h) 5‐HT transporter (SERT) (pKivalue of 9.3). SB‐649915 behaved as an antagonist at both 5‐HT1Aand 5‐HT1Breceptorsin vitroandin vivo,reversing 5‐HT, (+)8‐hydroxy‐2‐(di‐n‐propylamino) tetralin (8‐OH‐DPAT) and SKF99101‐induced functional/behavioral responses. Furthermore, it inhibited [3H]5‐HT reuptake in rat cortical synaptosomes,in vitroandex vivo. In electrophysiological studies SB‐649915 had no effect on rat dorsal raphe neuronal cell firingper se,but reversed 8‐OH‐DPAT–induced inhibition of firing bothin vitroandin vivo. In addition, in a microdialysis study, it produced an acute increase in extracellular 5‐HT in forebrain structures of the rat. Finally, SB‐649915 demonstrated acute anxiolytic activity in both rodent and non‐human primate and reduced the latency to onset of anxiolytic behavior, compared to paroxetine, in the rat social interaction paradigm. In summary, SB‐649915 is a novel, potent 5‐HT1A/1Bautoreceptor antagonist, and 5‐HT reuptake inhibitor. This particular pharmacological profile provides a novel mechanism that could offer fast‐acting antidepressant activity.
Pharmacological Actions of NGB 2904, a Selective Dopamine D3Receptor Antagonist, in Animal Models of Drug Addiction
Authors: Xi Zheng‐Xiong , Gardner Eliot L.
Published: July 2009

As a continuation of our work with SB‐277011A, we have examined the effects of another highly elective dopamine (DA) D3receptor antagonist, N‐(4‐[4‐{2,3‐dichlorophenyl}‐1‐piperazinyl]butyl)‐2‐fluorenylcarboxamide (NGB 2904), in animal models of addiction. Our results indicate that by systemic administration, NGB 2904 inhibits intravenous cocaine self‐administration maintained under a progressive‐ratio (PR) reinforcement schedule, cocaine‐ or cocaine cue–induced reinstatement of cocaine‐seeking behavior, and cocaine‐ or other addictive drug‐enhanced brain stimulation reward (BSR). The action of NGB 2904 on PR cocaine self‐administration was long‐lasting (1–2 days) after a single injection, supporting its potential use in treatment of cocaine addiction. The effects of NGB 2904 in the BSR paradigm were dose‐dependent for both NGB 2904 and cocaine; that is, only lower doses of NGB 2904 were effective, and their putative antiaddiction effect could be overcome by increasing the doses of cocaine or other addictive drugs. A dopamine‐dependent mechanism is proposed to explain the effects of NGB 2904 on cocaine's actions in these animal models of drug addiction. The data reviewed in this paper suggest that NGB 2904 or other D3‐selective antagonists may have potential in controlling motivation for drug‐taking behavior or relapse to drug‐seeking behavior, but may have a limited role in antagonizing the acute rewarding effects produced by cocaine or other addictive drugs. In addition, NGB 2904 may also act as a useful tool to study the role of D3receptors in drug addiction.
A GLYCOPROTEIN NONCOVALENTLY ASSOCIATED WITH CELL‐WALL POLYSACCHARIDE OF THE RED MICROALGAPORPHYRIDIUMSP. (RHODOPHYTA)1
Authors: Shrestha Roshan Prakash , Weinstein Yacob , Bar‐Zvi Dudy , Arad Shoshana (Malis)
Published: July 2009

The cells of the red microalgaPorphyridiumsp. (UTEX 637) are encapsulated in a cell wall of a negatively charged mucilaginous polysaccharide complex composed of 10 different sugars, sulfate, and proteins. In this work, we studied the proteins associated with the cell‐wall polysaccharide. A number of noncovalently associated proteins were resolved by SDS‐PAGE, but no covalently bound proteins were detected. The most prominent protein detected was a 66‐kDa glycoprotein consisting of a polypeptide of approximately 58 kDa and a glycan moiety of approximately 8 kDa containingN‐linked terminal mannose. In size‐exclusion chromatography, the 66‐kDa protein was coeluted with the polysaccharide and could be separated from the polysaccharide only after denaturation of the protein, indicating that the 66‐kDa protein was tightly bound to the polysaccharide. Western blot analysis revealed that the 66‐kDa protein was specific toPorphyridiumsp. andP. cruentum, because it was not detected in the other species of red microalgae examined. Indirect immunofluorescence assay confirmed the location of the protein in the algal cell wall. The sequence of cDNA clone encoding the 66‐kDa glycoprotein, detected in our in‐house expressed sequence tag database ofPorphyridiumsp., revealed that this is a novel protein with no similarity to any protein in the public domain databases and our in‐house expressed sequence tag database of the red microalgaRhodella reticulata. The 66‐kDa protein bound polysaccharides from red algae but not from those of other origins tested. Possible roles of the 66‐kDa protein in the biosynthesis of the polysaccharide are discussed.
ALLELOCHEMICALS OF BOTRYOCOCCUS BRAUNII (CHLOROPHYCEAE)1
Authors: Chiang In‐Ze , Huang Wen‐Ya , Wu Jiunn‐Tzong
Published: July 2009

The alga Botryococcus braunii Kützing (Chlorophyceae) present in Liyu Lake (Huanlien County, Taiwan) has toxic effects on a variety of aquatic organisms. Blooms of this alga, which typically occur in autumn, are associated with fish deaths in this lake. Experiments using 15 phytoplankton and 5 zooplankton isolated from Liyu Lake indicate that these plankton exhibit various susceptibilities to B. braunii. A close correlation between the degree of susceptibility tested in the laboratory and the absence of certain phytoplankton during B. braunii blooms in the lake was observed, suggesting allelopathic effects. Isolation, identification, and verification with authentic compounds indicated that allelochemicals were a mixture of free fatty acids, including α‐linolenic, oleic, linolic, and palmitic acids. Compared with other phytoplankton isolates, B. braunii produced significantly higher amounts of free fatty acids, particularly of oleic and α‐linolenic acids. The role of these fatty acids in favoring dominance of B. braunii in the natural environment was elucidated.
EFFECTS OF UV RADIATION ON GROWTH AND PHLOROTANNINS IN FUCUS GARDNERI (PHAEOPHYCEAE) JUVENILES AND EMBRYOS1
Authors: Henry Brianne E. , Van Alstyne Kathryn L.
Published: July 2009

Diminishing levels of atmospheric ozone are increasing UV stress on intertidal algae. Early developmental stages tend to be more susceptible to environmental stresses; however, little research has examined how these stages are protected from UV radiation (UVR). Many brown algae contain high levels of phlorotannins, which are thought to function in screening UVR. In this study, we tested the effects of ambient levels of UV‐B and UV‐A on growth and phlorotannin production in 1‐ to 2‐cm juvenile and microscopic postsettlement embryos of the intertidal alga Fucus gardneri Silva. Algae were grown in four light treatments: 1) ambient light; 2) under cellulose acetate, which lowered light quantity but did not affect light quality; 3) under MylarTM, which filtered UV‐B; and 4) under PlexiglasTM, which blocked UV‐A and UV‐B. Over a 3‐week period, UV‐B inhibited and UV‐A enhanced the growth of F. gardneri embryos, whereas the growth of juveniles was not affected. Phlorotannin concentrations of both embryos and juveniles did not differ in any of the light treatments. Our results suggest that embryos of F. gardneri are susceptible to UV light but develop a tolerance to it as they mature. This tolerance may result from increases in phlorotannin concentrations that occur during maturation; however, phlorotannin production in embryonic or juvenile stages is either not induced by UV light or takes more than 3 weeks to occur.
MOLECULAR DIVERGENCE AND CHARACTERIZATION OF TWO CHLOROPLAST DIVISION GENES, FTSZ1 AND FTSZ2, IN THE UNICELLULAR GREEN ALGA NANNOCHLORIS BACILLARIS (CHLOROPHYTA)1
Authors: Koide Tomojirou , Yamazaki Tomokazu , Yamamoto Maki , Fujishita Mariko , Nomura Hideo , Moriyama Yohsuke , Sumiya Nobuko , Matsunaga Sachihiro , Sakamoto Wataru , Kawano Shigeyuki
Published: July 2009

Two FtsZ paralogues (NbFtsZ1 and NbFtsZ2) were isolated from the unicellular green alga Nannochloris bacillaris Naumann. These sequences encoded proteins of 435 and 439 amino acids with tubulin signature motifs (GGGTG[T/S]G), which are important for GTP binding activity. NbFtsZ1 and NbFtsZ2 had four and three introns, respectively, and two different putative core promoters; a TATA box (TATAAAA) and an initiator element (CCCAGG) were located 40 bp and 80 bp upstream of the coding regions of NbFtsZ1 and NbFtsZ2, respectively. Southern blot hybridization and contour‐clamped homogeneous electric field electrophoresis showed that N. bacillaris contained at least one copy of each gene and that NbFtsZ1 was located on chromosome 5 and NbFtsZ2 on chromosome 3 or 4. Phylogenetically, NbFtsZ1 and NbFtsZ2 belong to the vascular plant protein families FtsZ1 and FtsZ2, respectively. The FtsZ1 proteins do not contain carboxy‐terminal consensus sequences, whereas all FtsZ2 proteins possess the consensus sequence (I/V)PxFL(R/K)(K/R)(K/R). Our study has shown that NbFtsZ2 possesses a similar consensus sequence (VPDFLRRK), whereas NbFtsZ1 does not, further supporting their classification as FtsZ2 and FtsZ1. Escherichia coli ftsZ mutants transformed with cloned NbFtsZ1, and NbFtsZ2 cDNAs were restored for the capacity to divide by binary fission, suggesting that the proteins retained the ability to function in the bacterium. An anti‐NbFtsZ2 antibody specifically recognized a single protein band of approximately 51 kDa on an immunoblot of N. bacillaris cellular proteins. Immunostaining of the algal cells with this antibody produced an intense fluorescent signal as a ring near the middle of the cell, which corresponded to the chloroplast division site.
HOST PARASITE INTERACTIONS BETWEEN FRESHWATER PHYTOPLANKTON AND CHYTRID FUNGI (CHYTRIDIOMYCOTA)1
Authors: Ibelings Bas W. , De Bruin Arnout , Kagami Maiko , Rijkeboer Machteld , Brehm Michaela , Donk Ellen Van
Published: July 2009

Some chytrids are host‐specific parasiticfungithat may have a considerable impact on phytoplankton dynamics. The phylum Chytridiomycota contains one class, the Chytridiomycetes, and is composed of five different orders. Molecular studies now firmly place the Chytridiomycota within the fungal kingdom. Chytrids are characterized by having zoospores, a motile stage in their life cycle. Zoospores are attracted to the host cell by specific signals. No single physical–chemical factor has been found that fully explains the dynamics of chytrid epidemics in the field. Fungal periodicity was primarily related to host cell density. The absence of aggregated distributions of chytrids on their hosts suggested that their hosts did not vary in their susceptibility to infection. A parasite can only become epidemic when it grows faster than the host. Therefore, it has been suggested that epidemics in phytoplankton populations arise when growth conditions for the host are unfavorable. No support for such a generalization was found, however. Growth of the parasitic fungus Rhizophydium planktonicum Canter emend, parasitic on the diatom Asterionella formosa Hassal, was reduced under stringent nutrient limitation,because production and infectivity of zoospores were affected negatively. A moderate phosphorous or light limitation favored epidemic development, however. Chytrid infections have been shown to affect competition between their algal hosts and in this way altered phytoplankton succession. There is potential for coevolution between Asterionella and the chytrid Zygorhizidium planktonicum Canter based on clear reciprocal fitness costs, absence of overall infective parasite strains, and possibly a genetic basis for host susceptibility and parasite infectivity.
CRYOPRESERVATION OF THE GAMETOPHYTIC CELLS OF LAMINARIALES (PHAEOPHYTA) IN LIQUID NITROGEN1
Authors: Kuwano Kazuyoshi , Kono Shigeki , Jo Young‐Hyun , Shin Jong‐Ahm , Saga Naotsune
Published: July 2009

The gametophytic cells of six species of Laminariales, Laminaria japonica Areschoug, L. longissima Miyabe, Kjellmaniella crassifolia Miyabe, Ecklonia stolonifera Okamura, E. kurome Okamura, and Undaria pinnatifida (Harvey) Suringar, were subjected to cryopreservation in liquid nitrogen. The cells were suspended in various cryoprotective solutions and slowly cooled to –40°C over a period of 4 h. After this slow cooling step, the suspensions were immediately immersed in liquid nitrogen. All the species of Laminariaceae used in the present study survived maximally in a mixture of ethylene glycol and proline. On the other hand, the gametophytic cells of Undaria pinnatifida, a member of the Alariaceae, survived maximally in the mixture of glycerol and proline. The viability of the thawed gametophytic cells decreased during postthawing incubation. The decrease in viability continued for 4–6 days, and the minimum levels ranged from 36.2% to 67.2%. After 4–6 days of incubation, the percentage viability of all strains began to increase due to the renewal of cell division.
HIGH‐RESOLUTION MAGIC ANGLE SPINNING NMR ANALYSIS OF WHOLE CELLS OF CHAETOCEROS MUELLERI (BACILLARIOPHYCEAE) AND COMPARISON WITH 13C‐NMR AND DISTORTIONLESS ENHANCEMENT BY POLARIZATION TRANSFER 13C‐NMR ANALYSIS OF LIPOPHILIC EXTRACTS1
Authors: Chauton Matilde S. , Størseth Trond R. , Krane Jostein
Published: July 2009

Lipid composition in extracted samples of Chaetoceros muelleri Lemmermann was studied with 13C‐NMR and distortionless enhancement by polarization transfer (DEPT) 13C‐NMR, resulting in well‐resolved 13C‐NMR spectra with characteristic resonance signals from carboxylic, olefinic, glyceryl, methylene, and methyl groups. The application of a DEPT pulse sequence aided in the assignment of methylene and methine groups. Resonance signals were compared with literature references, and signal assignment included important unsaturated fatty acids such as eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic and also phospholipids and glycerols. Results from the extracted samples were used to assign resonance signals in a high‐resolution magic angle spinning (HR MAS) DEPT 13C spectrum from whole cells of C. muelleri. The NMR analysis on whole cells yielded equally good information on fatty acids and also revealed signals from carbohydrates and amino acids. Broad resonance signals and peak overlapping can be a problem in whole cell analysis, but we found that application of HR MAS gave a well‐resolved spectrum. The chemical shift of metabolites in an NMR spectrum depends on the actual environment of nuclei during analysis, and some differences could therefore be expected between extracted and whole cell samples. The shift differences were small, and assignment from analysis of lipophilic extract could be used to identify peaks in the whole cell spectrum. HR MAS 13C‐NMR therefore offers a possibility for broad‐range metabolic profiling directly on whole cells, simultaneously detecting metabolites that are otherwise not detected in the same analytical set up and avoiding tedious extraction procedures.
RELATIONSHIP OF GROWTH AND PHOTOSYNTHESIS WITH COLONY SIZE IN AN EDIBLE CYANOBACTERIUM, GE‐XIAN‐MI NOSTOC (CYANOPHYCEAE)1
Authors: Gao Kunshan , Ai Hongxia
Published: July 2009

Growth and photosynthesis of an edible cyanobacterium, Ge‐Xian‐Mi (Nostoc), were investigated with differently sized colonies. Both photosynthesis and growth were dependent on the colony size. Compared with larger ones, smaller colonies grew faster regardless of the levels of light and temperature for culture and showed higher values of maximal net photosynthetic rate, apparent quantum yield, light‐saturating and compensating points, and dark respiration. The ratios of chl a content and mass to surface area of a colony increased and that of chl a to mass or mass to volume of a colony decreased with increased colonial sizes. A Ge‐Xian‐Mi colony appeared to increase its chl a content per surface area, enhancing the light‐shading effect; however, at the same time it decreased its mass density on a volume basis, minimizing the enhanced effects of shading and diffusion barrier caused by the thickening outer layer with increasing colony size during growth.
KINETICS OF NITRATE, AMMONIUM, AND UREA UPTAKE BY FOUR INTERTIDAL SEAWEEDS FROM NEW ZEALAND1
Authors: Phillips Julia C. , Hurd Catriona L.
Published: July 2009

The competitive ability for N uptake by four intertidal seaweeds, Stictosiphonia arbuscula (Harvey) King et Puttock, Apophlaea lyallii Hook. f. et Harvey, Scytothamnus australis Hook. f. et Harvey, and Xiphophora gladiata (Labillardière) Montagne ex Harvey, from New Zealand is described by the uptake kinetics for NO3−, NH4+, and urea. This is the first study to report uptake kinetics for N uptake by a range of southern hemisphere intertidal seaweeds in relation to season and zonation. Species growing at the highest shore positions had higher NO3− and urea uptake at both high and low concentrations and had unsaturable NH4+ uptake in both summer and winter. Although there was evidence of some feedback inhibition of Vmax for NO3− uptake by Stictosiphonia arbuscula growing at the lower vertical limits of its range, rates were high compared with species growing lower on the shore. Our results highlight the superior competitive ability for N uptake of certain high intertidal seaweeds, and consistent with our previous findings we can conclude that intertidal seaweeds in southeast New Zealand are adapted to maximizing N acquisition in a potentially N‐limiting environment.
BIOGEOGRAPHY AND TAXONOMY OF BATRACHOSPERMUM HELMINTHOSUM (BATRACHOSPERMALES, RHODOPHYTA) IN JAPAN INFERRED FROM RBCL GENE SEQUENCES1
Authors: Hanyuda Takeaki , Suzawa Yuzuru , Suzawa Tamie , Arai Shogo , Sato Hiroshi , Ueda Kunihiko , Kumano Shigeru
Published: July 2009

Twenty‐seven individuals of Batrachospermum helminthosum Bory were collected from various sites in Japan, from temperate Iwate Prefecture to subtropical Okinawa Prefecture. The chloroplast‐encoded rbcL gene was sequenced from each sample. Phylogenetic analyses were performed using these and previously published sequences of 12 samples from North America. There were five haplotypes among the Japanese samples. Haplotype 1 was collected throughout a large geographical area corresponding to most of the sampling range in this study and was represented by most individuals (21 individuals). The other haplotypes were represented by one to three individuals, respectively. These distributions of haplotypes suggest the occurrence of one large metapopulation and/or recent colonization over a wide geographical area in Japan. Phylogenetic analysis showed two well‐supported clades within B. helminthosum, one clade containing four haplotypes (1–4) from Japan and the other clade comprising five North American haplotypes. Such differences between Japanese and North American haplotypes might be a result of continental drift and subsequent isolation in the Mesozoic era. The position of haplotype 5 from Okinawa in Japan is poorly resolved, but it is not closely related to the other four Japanese haplotypes. It is suggested that several taxonomic characteristics (sexuality, point of origin of carpogonium‐bearing branches, and trichogynes with or without basal knobs or branching) is not fixed genetically but is affected by environmental conditions. Based on the results of the present study, B. coerulescens Sirodot and B. elegans Sirodot should be placed in synonymy with B. helminthosum.
THE MECHANISM OF ISOTOPE FRACTIONATION DURING ALGAL NITRATE ASSIMILATION AS ILLUMINATED BY THE 15N/14N OF INTRACELLULAR NITRATE1
Authors: Needoba Joseph A. , Sigman Daniel M. , Harrison Paul J.
Published: July 2009

The 15N/14N of nitrate in the external medium and intracellular pool of the cultured marine diatom Thalassiosira weissflogii (Grun.) Fryxell et Hasle was measured during nitrate assimilation under low light, a 12:12‐h light:dark cycle, low temperature, or low iron conditions. The 15N/14N of the nitrate in the medium and the particulate matter both followed the predicted Rayleigh fractionation model, and the intracellular nitrate always had a higher 15N/14N than did the medium nitrate. When the experiments were compared, the results showed a negative correlation between the isotope fractionation factor and the difference in the 15N/14N between the two pools of nitrate. These observations imply that the variations in the isotope effect result from variations in the degree to which the fractionation by nitrate reductase is expressed outside the cell, which is, in turn, controlled by the rate of nitrate efflux relative to nitrate reduction. The low iron and low temperature experiments showed relatively small isotope effects but a large intracellular‐medium difference in nitrate 15N/14N, consistent with a relative rate of efflux (compared with influx) that is small and similar to fast‐growing cells. In contrast, large isotope effects and small intracellular‐medium differences in nitrate 15N/14N were observed for low light and light:dark cycle grown cells and are explained by higher relative rates of nitrate efflux under these growth conditions.