bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The new platelet alloantigen Caba: a single point mutation Gln716His on the α2 integrin
Authors: Bertrand Gerald , Jallu Vincent , Saillant Dominique , Kervran Dominique , Martageix Corinne , Kaplan Cecile
Published: June 2009

BACKGROUND: Fetal/neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia (FNAIT) is caused by maternal alloimmunization against fetal platelet (PLT) antigens, inherited from the father and absent from maternal PLTs.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: A 29‐year‐old mother gave birth to a severely thrombocytopenic newborn (16 × 109 PLTs/L) leading to PLT transfusion therapy associated with intravenous immunoglobulins. The outcome was uneventful. Maternal serum showed a specific positive reaction with the antigen‐capture assay (monoclonal antibody [MoAb]‐specific immobilization of PLT antigens) only when it was tested with the paternal PLTs and a panel of MoAbs against glycoprotein (GP)Ia‐IIa (α2β1 integrin) suggesting the implication of a new PLT antigen.

RESULTS: Nucleotide sequence analysis of GPIa cDNA of the father and newborn showed a nucleotide substitution at position 2235 (2235G > T according to the international nomenclature). This substitution induces a Q716H amino acid change in the GPIa mature protein, located outside the I domain involved in cell adhesion for collagen. In vitro analysis of recombinant Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells expressing wild‐type or mutant (Q716H) human GPIa allowed us to demonstrate that this single amino acid substitution is responsible and sufficient for inducing Caba antigen expression. Adhesion of CHO cells to collagen was not modified by the Cab polymorphism, nor by the maternal anti‐Caba alloantibodies, indicating that the mutation does not affect the function of integrin α2β1. In a Caucasian population study, none of the 104 unrelated blood donors was found to be Caba(+).

CONCLUSION: We describe here a new PLT alloantigen Caba involved in a severe case of FNAIT. Laboratory investigation for the “common” PLT alloantigens is no longer sufficient to evaluate neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia in suspected cases.
Erythrocytic precursor cells show potent shear stress resistant adhesion and home to hematopoietic tissue in vivo
Authors: Hintze Christian , Ströbele Christine , Rüster Brigitte , Göttig Stephan , Bugert Peter , Seifried Erhard , Henschler Reinhard
Published: June 2009

BACKGROUND: Transfusion of erythropoietic precursor cells has been suggested as an alternative to conventional red blood cells. However, little is known about the fate of transfused erythrocytic precursors after they enter the bloodstream.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Erythrocytic precursors were classified by flow cytometry into different maturation stages. Precursors were enriched using cell surface expression of CD71 and Ter119 antigens and analyzed under shear stress in a parallel plate flow chamber and after fluorescence tagging with PKH and transfusion into anemic mice.

RESULTS: We found that at all maturation stages, erythrocytic precursors expressed the adhesion receptor very late antigen (VLA)‐4 with a frequency decreasing from 90% to approximately 60% during maturation. In contrast, expression of the β2‐integrins LFA‐1 and Mac‐1 and the rolling receptor P‐selectin glycoprotein ligand‐1 increased from 10% to 20% to approximately 50% during erythrocytic maturation. The chemokine receptor CXCR4 was expressed at low levels during differentiation stages. In vitro shear stress adhesion analysis showed that erythrocytic precursors can efficiently activate VLA‐4 such that it binds its cognate ligand, vascular cell adhesion molecule (VCAM)‐1. The coimmobilization of stromal cell–derived factor‐1α with VCAM‐1 strengthened this adhesion. Transfusion of primitive (CD71+) or more mature (Ter119+) erythrocytic precursors into mice showed that both populations selectively and efficiently home to hematopoietic tissues.

CONCLUSION: Our results demonstrate that erythrocytic precursor cells of different maturation stages are capable of homing to hematopoietic organs. This work has implications for the development of transfusion protocols that use ex vivo expanded, but not fully matured, erythrocytic precursors from cultured stem cell populations.
Red blood cell use outside the operating theater: a prospective observational study with modeling of potential blood conservation during severe blood shortages
Authors: Joseph Bridgid G. , Hendry Catrina , Walsh Timothy S.
Published: June 2009

BACKGROUND: National guidance recommends planning for future blood shortages, but few studies have evaluated how reduced demand could be achieved acutely.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: A trained observer collected data concerning red blood cell (RBC) transfusion events outside the operating theater during 68 hours of blood bank monitoring over 7 weeks. Data were gathered at the patients' bedside from clinical staff and charts. Transfusions were classified according to the presence of bleeding and medical specialty (medical, surgical, other). Hemoglobin (Hb) transfusion triggers, RBCs transfused, and posttransfusion Hb values were collected. Evidence‐based scenarios were used to model the potential RBC savings that could be achieved if acute shortages occurred, incorporating ischemic heart disease as a potential decision modifier.

RESULTS: A total of 83 patients received 100 transfusion events, comprising 207 RBC units, during the sampling periods. The relative use of RBC units across specialties was as follows: medical, 74%; surgical, 22%; and other, 4%. For medical and surgical patients, respectively, 31 and 10% of all RBC units were transfused for anemia without evidence of bleeding, and 38 and 12% were transfused for non–life‐threatening bleeding. Eight‐five percent of all patients who received transfusions had stable vital signs before transfusion. Our model suggested that only 11% of RBCs would be conserved by cancellation of major surgery, whereas 23% to 47% of all RBCs could be conserved by controlling transfusions to medical patients.

CONCLUSION: In institutions with patterns of blood use similar to ours, control of transfusions to medical patients is the most effective response to acute blood shortages.
Alloantibodies against low‐frequency human platelet antigens do not account for a significant proportion of cases of fetomaternal alloimmune thrombocytopenia: evidence from 1054 cases
Authors: Ghevaert Cedric , Rankin Angela , Huiskes Elly , Porcelijn Leendert , Javela Kaija , Kekomaki Riitta , Bakchoul Tamam , Santoso Sentot , Nutland Sarah , Smyth Deborah J. , Smith Graham A. , McBride Simon , Watkins Nicholas A. , Ouwehand Willem H.
Published: June 2009

BACKGROUND: Maternal alloantibodies against the five common human platelet antigen (HPA) systems (HPA‐1 to ‐3, ‐5, and ‐15) are found in only 20% of cases referred for fetal and neonatal thrombocytopenia (FMAIT) investigations. The question asked was whether mismatches for the remaining 11 low‐frequency HPAs (HPA‐4 and ‐6bw to ‐17bw) might in part explain the remaining 80% of cases.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: A total of 1054 paternal DNA samples from referred FMAIT cases (among which 223 cases where antibodies against a common HPA were found) were genotyped for 11 low‐frequency HPAs as well as a recently discovered polymorphism (ITGA2B‐C2320T). The initial genotyping was carried out by TaqMan and potential heterozygotes were confirmed by DNA sequencing. Clinical and serologic data were collected for each case with a heterozygote father.

RESULTS: In total, eight heterozygous fathers were identified: four for HPA‐6w, one each for HPA‐10w and ‐11w, and two for HPA‐12w. Maternal antibodies against the corresponding antigen were identified in four of the eight cases. In two of these cases, antibodies against HPA‐1a and HPA‐1b were also found.

CONCLUSION: It was concluded that the minor alleles of HPA‐4 and ‐6bw to ‐17bw are exceptionally rare in the Caucasian population and therefore do not explain the large number of FMAIT referrals which test negative for the common HPA antibodies.
Dispositional Affectivity and Work‐Related Outcomes: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Ng Thomas W. H. , Sorensen Kelly L.
Published: June 2009

This study meta‐analytically reviews the influence of individuals' dispositional negative affectivity (NA) and positive affectivity (PA) on a broad range of work‐related outcomes grouped into 3 categories: (a) work attitudes; (b) workplace experiences; and (c) work behavior. Across cumulative studies, it was found that NA and PA demonstrated significant effects on most of these outcomes. Moreover, we found some interesting differences in NA's and PA's relationships with work outcomes. Specifically, while NA had more influence on variables pertinent to work stressors (e.g., role problems), PA demonstrated a stronger effect on variables related to positive job and organizational context (e.g., job autonomy, procedural justice). Implications for theory advancement and future research in this area are discussed.
Mental Health, Occupational Trust, and Quality of Working Life: Does Belief in a Just World Matter?
Authors: Otto Kathleen , Glaser Dörte , Dalbert Claudia
Published: June 2009

We investigated the hypotheses that personal belief in a just world (BJW) would enhance evaluations of working life (e.g., job satisfaction, organizational commitment), increase occupational trust (e.g., entrepreneurial self‐efficacy, occupational self‐efficacy), and boost mental health (e.g., life satisfaction, self‐esteem). To test these hypotheses, we conducted 3 studies with employees and unemployed individuals in different career situations (total N = 593). Regression analyses revealed positive relationships between BJW and mental health, as well as occupational trust in all participant groups. These relationships persisted when controlling for objective success criteria and global personality traits. In addition, BJW was found to be associated with subjective quality of working life in employed individuals. We concluded that justice motive matters in the working context.
Interpersonal Problems Among Perpetrators and Targets of Workplace Bullying
Authors: Glasø Lars , Nielsen Morten Birkeland , Einarsen Ståle
Published: June 2009

This representative study among 2,539 Norwegian employees examines interpersonal problems among targets and perpetrators of workplace bullying. Both targets and perpetrators portrayed elevated levels of interpersonal problems. Yet, the results question the role of a general target personality in explaining exposure to workplace bullying. Although interpersonal problems were reported among 50% of the targets, interpersonal problems were also prevalent in a large proportion of the non‐exposed employees. Accordingly, level of interpersonal problems does not easily differentiate targets from non‐targets and calls for a broader frame of reference in order to understand the bullying process.
Expecting to Work, Fearing Homelessness: The Possible Selves of Low‐Income Mothers1
Authors: Lee Shawna J. , Oyserman Daphna
Published: June 2009

We explored the content of possible selves of low‐income mothers and the strategies they have to work on their possible selves. Positive expected possible selves focus on getting a job, making ends meet, and caregiving. Negative to‐be‐avoided possible selves focus on failing to make ends meet, losing (or not getting) jobs, and problems with mental health. Immediate social context—rather than demographic characteristics or global work–family variables—was associated with content of possible selves. Controlling for demographic and work–family variables, job‐focused possible selves (and strategies to attain them) were more salient; and caregiving and mental‐health‐related possible selves were less salient to mothers in job‐training programs vs. welfare offices.
From Intentions to Behavior: Implementation Intention, Commitment, and Conscientiousness1
Authors: Ajzen Icek , Czasch Cornelia , Flood Michael G.
Published: June 2009

Implementation intentions are said to transfer control over goal‐directed behavior to situational cues, thereby automating initiation of the behavior (Gollwitzer, 1999). Alternatively, implementation intentions may be effective because they create commitment to the intended behavior. In an empirical study, implementation intentions regarding a simple task (rating TV newscasts) varied in their specificity. In addition, explicit commitment to the task was manipulated, and chronic conscientiousness was assessed. Consistent with the commitment hypothesis, general and specific implementation intentions were equally effective in raising level of task performance, and they were no more effective than asking for an explicit commitment to carry out the task. Also, individuals high in conscientiousness were more likely than individuals low on this trait to enact their intentions.
Expanding the Mediational Model of the Effects of Health‐Related Social Control
Authors: Logic Mia , Okun Morris A. , Pugliese John A.
Published: June 2009

Tucker, Orlando, Elliott, and Klein (2006) proposed that the associations between social control attempts and health behaviors are mediated by affects. The evidence is mixed regarding whether affects fully mediate these associations. In a sample of 317 college students involved in heterosexual dating relationships, we tested Tucker's mediational model and an expanded mediational model that incorporated the action readiness component of emotions (motivation to change and reactance). Full mediation of the associations between (a) positive social control and health behavior change; and (b) negative social control and hiding unhealthy behavior were found only when motivation to change and reactance were included in the model. Unexpectedly, reactance and negative social control exerted direct effects on health behavior change.
Need for Cognition and Conscientiousness as Predictors of Political Interest and Voting Strategy1
Authors: O'Hara Ross E. , Walter Mark I. , Christopher Andrew N.
Published: June 2009

Participants (N = 251) used an Internet‐based information board to learn about fictional U.S. presidential candidates in a voting simulation task. Need for cognition and conscientiousness interacted to predict political interest. Participants high in need for cognition and participants high in conscientiousness, regardless of the magnitude of the other construct, exhibited high political interest. Participants low in need for cognition and conscientiousness exhibited low political interest. Additionally, participants high in need for cognition or low in conscientiousness preferred an issue‐based voting strategy, whereas those low in need for cognition or high in conscientiousness preferred a candidate‐based voting strategy. These findings have important implications for how political information should be disseminated to voters through Internet means, such as political websites.
A Test of Positive Illusions Versus Shared Reality Models of Relationship Satisfaction Among Gay, Lesbian, and Heterosexual Couples
Authors: Conley Terri D. , Roesch Scott C. , Peplau Letitia Anne , Gold Michael S.
Published: June 2009

According to the positive illusions model (Murray, Holmes, & Griffin, 1996a), people in romantic relationships are more satisfied when they view their partners more favorably than the partners see themselves. By contrast, shared reality theory (Hardin & Conley, 2001) emphasizes the benefits of perceiving a partner as the partner sees himself or herself. We analyzed archived data from the American Couples Study (Blumstein & Schwartz, 1983) to test the applicability of the positive illusions model to gay and lesbian relationships. Structural equation models demonstrated that the positive illusions model effectively explains relationships among lesbian, gay, heterosexual cohabitating, and married couples.
“Shopping While Black”: Examining Racial Discrimination in a Retail Setting1
Authors: Schreer George E. , Smith Saundra , Thomas Kirsten
Published: June 2009

To investigate racial discrimination in the marketplace, we conducted a field experiment to examine both overt and subtle forms of retail discrimination. “Customers” browsing in high‐end retail stores asked a salesperson if they would remove a security sensor from a pair of sunglasses prior to trying them on in front of a mirror. Although the request to remove the sensor was granted in all conditions, the salespersons showed greater levels of suspicion (i.e., staring, following) in the Black conditions, especially in the male‐group condition. These findings are consistent with current field research examining subtle biases toward other stigmatized groups.
An experimentally induced host shift in a seed beetle
Authors: Messina Frank J. , Mendenhall Michelle , Jones Jake C.
Published: June 2009

Many insects use a fairly well‐defined set of host plants, but are occasionally observed on an atypical host. The seed beetle Callosobruchus maculatus (F.) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Bruchinae) has rarely been reported to attack lentil, which is distantly related to its usual legume hosts. An initial assay of an Asian beetle population revealed that none of the 100 larvae entering lentil seeds survived to adult emergence. Nevertheless, three attempts at mass selection, in which more than 2 000 adults were added to lentil seeds, eventually yielded self‐sustaining populations. In each case, a severe bottleneck was followed by a rapid increase in survival, which exceeded 65% after only five generations and surpassed 85% in <20 generations. Subsequent large‐scale experiments indicated that survival in lentil is initially <2% and that most larvae die before they have completely entered a seed. The only potential trade‐off associated with rapid adaptation to lentil was a modest increase in the time required to develop in the ancestral host, mung bean. Reciprocal crosses between a lentil‐adapted line (F10) and a mung‐bean line produced offspring with intermediate survival, very long development times, and small size. Although the Asian population has been kept under uniform laboratory conditions for more than 200 generations, it appears to maintain rare alleles that permit the colonization of an extremely poor host. Such standing genetic variation can account for the sporadic appearance of unusual ‘biotypes’ among herbivorous insects.
Prey preference of Orius sauteri between Western Flower Thrips and spider mites
Authors: Xu Xuenong , Enkegaard Annie
Published: June 2009

Prey preference of polyphagous predators plays an important role in the suppression of various species of pest insects. In this study, the prey preference of Orius sauteri (Poppius) (Heteroptera: Anthocoridae) between deutonymphs of Tetranychus urticae Koch (Acari: Tetranychidae) and second instars of Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande) (Thysanoptera: Thripidae), and the influence of spider mite density on the preference were examined in the laboratory in three‐dimensional set‐ups at 25 ± 1 °C and 70 ± 5% r.h. The results showed that the predatory bug in the presence of equal densities of the two prey species had a clear preference for thrips (preference index β: 0.86 ± 0.02), consuming 7.2 thrips larvae and 1.5 spider mite deutonymphs during the experimental periods of 6 h. The number of thrips consumed by O. sauteri did not change when the density ratio of thrips to spider mites was decreased from 1:1 to 1:5. Predation on spider mites increased when their ratio to thrips increased, but the disproportionate predation (i.e., the functional response) of O. sauteri towards spider mites resulted in a linear increase in the preference for F. occidentalis. The possible implications of these findings for the suppression of spider mites by O. sauteri in relation to the recent invasion of F. occidentalis into China are discussed.
Variability in the behavioural responses of three generalist herbivores to the most abundant coumarin in Daphne laureola leaves
Authors: Alonso Conchita , García Isabel M. , Zapata Nelson , Pérez Ricardo
Published: June 2009

We evaluated the responses of three generalist herbivores (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) to the most abundant coumarin in young leaves of spurge‐laurel, Daphne laureola L. (Thymelaeaceae), a perennial shrub consistently fed upon by several noctuid species. Pseudenargia ulicis Staud and Noctua janthe Borkhausen are natural herbivores of the species in southeastern Spain, whereas Spodoptera littoralis Boisduval is a model species frequently used to address the antifeedant role of secondary compounds. Discrimination between control and coumarin‐coated D. laureola leaves was investigated by short‐term choice experiments. We found species‐specific behavioural responses to the treatment: P. ulicis preferred the control leaves, whereas S. littoralis did not discriminate between leaf treatments, although it clearly avoided coumarin when incorporated into an artificial diet, and N. janthe preferred the coumarin‐coated leaves. Furthermore, N. janthe larvae reduced consumption when the proportion of treated leaves ingested increased and consumption of S. littoralis larvae was also reduced in coumarin‐containing diet under no‐choice conditions. Our results highlight that different herbivore species feeding simultaneously on the same host plant respond differently to a single chemical defence compound, likely constraining a directional response of the plant to selection.
Effects of resources and predation on the predictability of community composition
Authors: Gerla Daan J. , Vos Matthijs , Kooi Bob W. , Mooij Wolf M.
Published: June 2009

When does community assembly lead to a predictable species composition and when does this process depend on chance events, such as the timing of species arrivals? We studied the combined effects of enrichment and predation on the occurrence of priority effects, i.e. dependency on the timing of arrival, using a model of a small food web consisting of a predator, two competing prey and interference through allelopathy. Our analysis shows the conditions under which priority effects can occur. In the system we studied, the interfering species has to be the weaker resource exploiter of the two consumers, or it has to be more susceptible to predation. When it is the weaker resource exploiter, a minimum level of nutrient input is required for interference to be strong enough to cause a priority effect. When the interfering species is more susceptible to predation, a priority effect actually requires predation, which in itself also requires a minimum level of nutrient inflow. However, the priority effect disappears when predation pressure rises above a threshold value, also when the two competitors are equally preferred by the predator. This is so because predation reduces population densities and thereby the strength of interference. Our analyses make clear how the effects of resources and predation can combine to result in the absence or presence of priority effects during community assembly.
Metapopulation dynamics across gradients – the relation between colonization and extinction in shaping the range edge
Authors: Oborny Beáta , Vukov Jeromos , Csányi Gábor , Meszéna Géza
Published: June 2009

We study the dynamics of a metapopulation in which the rates of colonization and/or extinction change along an environmental gradient. Spatially explicit simulations are applied to compare two cases: in parent‐dependent colonization (PDC) the rate of colonization is limited by the production of new individuals; in offspring‐dependent colonization (ODC) it is limited by the success of establishment of the offspring. Thus, PDC depends on the quality of the parent's site, while ODC is dependent on the offspring's site. We combine PDC and ODC in a spatially implicit model. We study the steady‐state distribution of a metapopulation, and ask whether the local densities of occupied sites at each position x along the gradient could be predicted from the local rates of colonization c(x) and extinction e(x). This prediction is not trivial, since the sites are connected, enabling a flow of individuals from more favorable to less favorable sites. The results show that at ODC a single parameter, c(x)/e(x), is sufficient for the prediction. Therefore, different species and geographic regions can be directly compared by appropriate rescaling: choosing the local average lifetime of occupancy, 1/e(x), for a time unit at each point along the gradient. This permits generalizations about the shape of range edges, and can help to predict the position of the boundary of a species’ distribution. At PDC, rescaling is not possible: the whole profile of c(x) and e(x) along the gradient has to be taken into consideration. Nevertheless, rescaling gives a good approximation when the parent‐dependent component of colonization does not change abruptly across space.
Information is a fitness enhancing resource
Authors: McNamara John M. , Dall Sasha R. X.
Published: June 2009

Here we provide a biologically relevant proof of the well‐known result from economics and statistical decision theory that having more information never reduces the expected payoff to a decision‐making agent. We then go on to illustrate this with an ecologically motivated example based on a model of growth under uncertain predation risk. Throughout we use the central result that the fitness (reproductive) value of information can never be negative to highlight conceptual inconsistencies in the ecological literature on information use.
Genotype and maternal environment affect belowground interactions betweenArabidopsis thalianaand its competitors
Authors: Bossdorf Oliver , Shuja Zunaira , Banta Joshua A.
Published: June 2009

Ecological interactions between different species are not fixed, but they may depend, at least to some extent, on the particular genotypes involved as well as on the environmental conditions experienced by previous generations. We used a set of natural genotypes ofArabidopsisthaliana, that previously experienced contrasting nutrient and herbivory conditions, to test for the influences of genetic variation and maternal effects on competitive interactions betweenArabidopsisand the weedy annualsAnagallisarvensisandSenecio vulgaris. We used activated carbon to discriminate between resource competition and allelopathy components of plant‐plant interactions. There was a clear competitive hierarchy:Senecio>Arabidopsis>Anagallis. Although we found no evidence for allelopathic potential ofArabidopsis, our results indicate that bothAnagallisandSenecioexerted negative (direct or indirect) allelopathic effects onArabidopsis. There were significant differences amongArabidopsisgenotypes in their competitive effects on both neighbor species, as well as in their response to competition. Maternal environments significantly influenced not only the growth and fitness ofArabidopsisitself, but also its competitive effect onAnagallis. We found, however, no evidence that maternal environments affected the competitive effect onSenecioor overall competitive response ofArabidopsis. Generally, resource competition played a greater role than allelopathy, and genotype effects were more important than maternal effects. Our study demonstrates that ecological interactions, such as plant competition, are complex and multi‐layered, and that, in particular, the influence of genetic variation on interactions with other species should not be overlooked.
The effects of cigarette exposure on rat salivary proteins and salivary glands
Authors: Fujinami Y , Fukui T , Nakano K , Ara T , Fujigaki Y , Imamura Y , Hattori T , Yanagisawa S , Kawakami T , Wang P‐L
Published: June 2009

Objective:  Passive smoking is the involuntary inhalation of cigarette smoke (CS) and has an adverse impact on oral health. We examined the effect of CS exposure on saliva and salivary glands (SGs).

Methods:  Cigarette smoke‐exposed rats were intermittently housed in an animal chamber with whole‐body exposure to CS until killed. Whole saliva was collected before CS exposure (0 day), and 15 and 30 days after the start of CS exposure. Saliva secretion was stimulated by administration of isoproterenol and pilocarpine after anesthesia. SGs were collected on 31 days.

Results:  The increase in body weight of the CS‐exposed rats was less than that of the control rats. Salivary flow rates did not differ at 0, 15 or 30 days after the start of CS exposure. However, the amylase and peroxidase activities and total protein content in the saliva were significantly lower in 15‐day CS‐exposed rats than in 15‐day control rats. Histological examination of the SGs of CS‐exposed rats showed vacuolar degeneration, vasodilation and hyperemia.

Conclusion:  These results suggest that CS exposure has adverse impacts on salivary composition and SGs, which could aggravate the oral environment.
Micronuclear and sister chromatid exchange analyses in peripheral lymphocytes of patients with oral lichen planus – a pilot study*
Authors: Ergun S , Warnakulasuriya S , Duman N , Saruhanoğlu A , Sevinç B , Öztürk Ş , Özel S , Çefle K , Palanduz Ş , Tanyeri H
Published: June 2009

Objective:  The purpose of this study was to determine the genetic instability of peripheral blood lymphocytes from patients diagnosed with oral lichen planus (OLP) by investigation of frequencies of micronuclei (MN) and sister chromatid exchange (SCE).

Materials and Methods:  A total of 22 newly diagnosed and untreated patients with OLP of same severity scores and twenty healthy controls participated in this study. They were all non‐smokers with no previous history or family history of cancer. The periodontal status, flow rate and buffering capacity of whole mouth saliva were recorded. SCE and MN analyses were performed on peripheral blood lymphocytes of OLP patients and healthy controls.

Results:  The frequencies of MN (50.00 ± 22.36) and SCE (6.89 ± 1.48) in OLP patients were found to be significantly elevated compared with that in normal individuals (25.20 ± 9.52 and 5.93 ± 1.31; z = 3.946, P = 0.0001; z = 2.346, P = 0.019). There were no significant differences in the MN frequency and SCE between the two subgroups with reticular or erosive types of OLP.

Conclusion:  These pilot data indicate an increased genomic instability in peripheral blood lymphocytes of a cohort of Turkish patients diagnosed with oral lichen planus as compared with that of healthy individuals. As patients with OLP may have an increased or potential risk for oral malignancy, these assays could be used in translational research to monitor beneficial effects of interventions and long‐term prognosis.
Impact of the tryptophan hydroxylase 1 gene A218C polymorphism on amygdala activity in response to affective facial stimuli in patients with major depressive disorder
Authors: Lee B.‐T. , Lee H.‐Y. , Lee B.‐C. , Pae C.‐U. , Yoon B.‐J. , Ryu S.‐G. , Choi I.‐G. , Lee M.‐S. , Ham B.‐J.
Published: June 2009

Tryptophan hydroxylase‐1 (TPH1) is the rate‐limiting enzyme in serotonin biosynthesis, and allelic variations at the TPH1 locus have been implicated in the pathophysiology of depression. Using 1.5‐Tesla functional magnetic resonance imaging, we investigated the possible relationship between TPH1 A218C polymorphism and amygdala response to negative facial stimuli in 26 right‐handed female subjects with major depressive disorder (MDD). Genotyping was performed with the polymerase chain reaction. We found a significant association between A allele of the TPH1 A218C polymorphism and neural activations in response to negative facial stimuli. Subjects with the A allele of the TPH1 A218C polymorphism showed greater brain activity in the bilateral amygdala under the sad vs. the neutral condition compared with subjects homozygous for the C allele. Our results suggest that the A218C polymorphism of the TPH1 gene serves as a modulator of amygdala activity in patients with MDD.
Childhood cardiac function after twin‐to‐twin transfusion syndrome – a 10‐year follow up
Authors: Halvorsen CP , Bilock SL , Pilo C , Sonesson S‐E , Norman M
Published: June 2009

Aim:  To perform a 10‐year follow up of cardiac structure and function after twin‐to‐twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) – a severe foetal circulatory complication associated with myocardial hypertrophy in the recipient twin.

Methods:  Cardiac dimensions, systolic and diastolic function as assessed by echocardiography including flow and tissue Doppler velocimetry in 22 healthy survivors of TTTS with a mean age of 9.6 (7.2–11.8) years.

Results:  The donor and recipient twin did not show any differences in end‐diastolic ventricular size, interventricular septum thickness, diameter of right ventricular outflow tract, cardiac valves, coronary arteries or in systolic blood flow velocities. However, compared with the donors, the recipients had significantly lower E/A ratios because of lower E‐waves in both mitral (−0.15 ± 0.10, p < 0.01) and tricuspid (−0.09 ± 0.07, p < 0.01) valves, indicating reduced early diastolic ventricular fillings compared with donors.

Conclusion:  At school age, twins surviving TTTS had a cardiac structure and function within normal range. There were no differences in heart structure or systolic ventricular function between twins but, compared with the donor twin, we found a reduced early diastolic function in the recipient.
Conditioning attentional skills: examining the effects of the pace of television editing on children’s attention
Authors: Cooper NR , Uller C , Pettifer J , Stolc FC
Published: June 2009

Aim:  There is increasing concern about the behavioural and cognitive effects of watching television in childhood. Numerous studies have examined the effects of the amount of viewing time; however, to our knowledge, only one study has investigated whether the speed of editing of a programme may have an effect on behaviour. The purpose of the present study was to examine this question using a novel experimental paradigm.

Methods:  School children (aged 4–7 years) were randomly assigned to one of two groups. Each group was presented with either a fast‐ or slow‐edit 3.5‐min film of a narrator reading a children’s story. Immediately following film presentation, both groups were presented with a continuous test of attention.

Results:  Performance varied according to experimental group and age. In particular, we found that children’s orienting networks and error rates can be affected by a very short exposure to television.

Conclusion:  Just 3.5 min of watching television can have a differential effect on the viewer depending on the pacing of the film editing. These findings highlight the potential of experimentally manipulating television exposure in children and emphasize the need for more research in this previously under‐explored topic.
Acidification of sandy grasslands – consequences for plant diversity
Authors: Olsson Pål Axel , Mårtensson Linda‐Maria , Bruun Hans Henrik
Published: June 2009

Questions: (1) Does soil acidification in calcareous sandy grasslands lead to loss of plant diversity? (2) What is the relationship between the soil content of lime and the plant availability of mineral nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) in sandy grasslands?

Location: Sandy glaciofluvial deposits in south‐eastern Sweden covered by xeric sand calcareous grasslands (EU habitat directive 6120).

Methods: Soil and vegetation were investigated in most of the xeric sand calcareous grasslands in the Scania region (136 sample plots distributed over four or five major areas and about 25 different sites). Environmental variables were recorded at each plot, and soil samples were analysed for exchangeable P and N, as well as limestone content and pH. Data were analysed with regression analysis and canonical correspondence analysis.

Results: Plant species richness was highest on weakly acid to slightly alkaline soil; a number of nationally red‐listed species showed a similar pattern. Plant species diversity and number of red‐listed species increased with slope. Where the topsoil had been acidified, limestone was rarely present above a depth of 30 cm. The presence of limestone restricts the availability of soil P, placing a major constraint on primary productivity in sandy soils.

Conclusions: Acidification of sandy grasslands leads to reduced abundance of desirable species, although the overall effect is rather weak between pH 5 and pH 9. Slopes are important for high diversity in sandy grasslands. Calcareous soils cannot be restored through shallow ploughing, but deep perturbation could increase the limestone content of the topsoil and favour of target species.
Impact of landscape spatial pattern on liana communities in tropical rainforests at Los Tuxtlas, Mexico
Authors: Arroyo‐Rodríguez Víctor , Toledo‐Aceves Tarin
Published: June 2009

Questions:What are the species composition and species and stem densities of liana communities in tropical landscapes of different deforestation levels? Which spatial attributes (forest cover, patch area, shape and isolation) have the strongest influence on liana communities in these landscapes?

Location:Forty‐five rainforest patches in Los Tuxtlas Biosphere Reserve, Mexico.

Methods:In three landscapes with different deforestation levels (HDL=4%; IDL=11%; and LDL=24% of remaining forest cover) liana communities (DBH ≥2.5 cm) were characterized in 15 randomly selected patches per landscape (10 50 m × 2 m transects per patch=0.1 ha), and evaluated the effects of patch area, shape and isolation on liana species and stem density (number of species and stems per 0.1 ha).

Results:A total of 64 taxa and 24 families were sampled. Species composition differed highly among landscapes, with HDL being the most dissimilar landscape. The response of lianas to landscape spatial pattern differed significantly among landscapes. Proximity to villages had a strong positive effect on species and stem densities in LDL and IDL. There was a sharp decrease in liana stem density in HDL, with four patches (27%) found to be unoccupied by lianas.

Conclusions:Fragmentation may have a positive effect on lianas, partly because of edge effects. This positive effect seems to be limited by the proportion of remaining forest cover in the landscape, as the liana communities had collapsed in the most deforested landscape.
TheIn VivoResponse of Novel Buprenorphine Metabolites, M1 and M3, to Antiretroviral Inducers and Inhibitors of Buprenorphine Metabolism
Authors: Moody David E. , Chang Yan , Huang Wei , McCance‐Katz Elinore F.
Published: June 2009

Abstract: Buprenorphine metabolism was recently expanded byin vitroidentification of a number of hydroxylated metabolites. The identification of two, M1 and M3, in urine suggests that they may be quantitatively significant metabolites. To further understand thein vivoregulation of this mode of metabolism, we evaluated 24‐hr urine from subjects (10 per treatment group) on buprenorphine alone or with the antiretroviral agents: efavirenz, delavirdine, nelfinavir, ritonavir, and lopinavir/ritonavir. Quantitative analysis for buprenorphine and traditional metabolites and semi‐quantitative analysis of M1 and M3 in urine were performed by liquid chromatography‐electrospray ionization‐tandem mass spectrometry. The renal clearance of buprenorphine and traditional metabolites were similar for all treatments except for lopinavir/ritonavir, suggesting that urine amounts of M1 and M3 would adequately reflect systemic changes (except lopinavir/ritonavir). Efavirenz decreased M1 and increased M3 consistent with its ability to induce cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A. Delavirdine increased M1 and decreased M3 consistent with its ability to inhibit CYP3A. Both nelfinavir and ritonavir decreased both M1 and M3, consistent with their ability to inhibit CYP3A and 2C8. These results provide further information on thein vivoresponse of novel secondary metabolites of buprenorphine to metabolic inhibitors and inducers.
The Third Man Argument
Authors: Bailey D. T. J.
Published: June 2009

This paper is a brief discussion of the famous ‘Third Man Argument’ as it appears in Plato's dialogue Parmenides. I mention, criticise and refine the most influential analytic approach to the argument; show that the actual conclusion of the argument is different from the one attributed to it by the majority of scholars; and elaborate two responses to the argument, both of which shed interesting light on the Theory of Forms.
Merleau‐Ponty and the Mystery of Perception
Authors: Carman Taylor
Published: June 2009

This article offers an overview of the structure and significance of Merleau‐Ponty's phenomenology. Neither a psychological nor an epistemological theory, Merleau‐Ponty's Phenomenology of Perception is instead an attempt to describe perceptual experience as we experience it. Although he was influenced heavily by Husserl, Heidegger, and Gestalt psychology, his work departs significantly from all three. Particularly original is his account of our bodily, precognitive experience of other persons, which he argues is essentially more primitive than any belief or doubt we can raise concerning the contents or even the existence of their minds. I conclude with a discussion of the differences between Merleau‐Ponty's phenomenology and Alva Noë's more recent ‘enactive’ theory of perception.
Knowledge and practices of school foodservice personnel regarding whole grain foods
Authors: Chan Hing Wan , Hesse David , Arndt Elizabeth , Marquart Len
Published: June 2009

Based on recent dietary guidance, whole grain foods are being served more frequently in school meals. To examine the knowledge and practices of 43 school foodservice personnel (SFP) from eight school districts, semi‐structured focus groups were conducted regarding whole grain foods. Qualitative data analysis procedures were used to generate common themes. SFP indicated a limited knowledge about whole grain foods, ingredient definitions and use of product label information related to ordering and purchasing. SFP had little awareness of the specific disease‐related health benefits of whole grains. Major barriers related to students' whole grain consumption were less desirable sensory characteristics, a lack of available products and cost. Potential approaches to promote whole grain foods in school cafeterias included gradual introduction, eye appeal and masking taste. This research is beneficial in identifying areas that SFP can improve their knowledge and skills regarding the effective use of whole grain foods in schools.
Silicone poaching pods: do they meet manufacturer's claims?
Authors: Barber Nelson , Broz Charles , Hammond Rhonda , Boyce Janice
Published: June 2009

Manufacturers are marketing silicone cooking and baking devices (e.g. cake pans) for a variety of foods, and claim these devices are easy to use, stick‐resistant, heat‐resistant, stain‐resistant and dishwasher‐safe. Recent research has reported contrary results from the manufacturers' claims. Silicone Poaching Pods were tested in this study to determine if they are as effective as claimed by manufacturers. Results indicated that in fact Poaching Pods are not easy to use. Egg products stuck to the pods during poaching and there was visible browning on the rim of the baked custards. Finally, the instructions need clarification to avoid potential cooking mistakes.
Modelling of mould/yeast growth on Korean braised lotus root cuts as a primary quality index in storage
Authors: Seo Il , An Duck Soon , Park Jin Pyo , Lee Dong Sun
Published: June 2009

Mould/yeast growth on Korean braised lotus root cuts, a primary quality deterioration factor for shelf life determination, was monitored during storage at constant temperatures and was modelled as a function of temperature to estimate microbial spoilage under constant and/or dynamic storage conditions expected in a foodservice system. With help of a bootstrapping method to generate many resampled data sets of microbial plate counts, 1000 parameter sets for Baranyi's model in the form of differential equations were estimated. The temperature dependence of the primary model parameters was provided together with their confidence limits. When the temperature‐dependent parameters were incorporated into the differential equations for microbial growth, prediction of mould/yeast count change under constant and fluctuating temperature conditions could be provided with a confidence band close to the experimental data as a useful tool for the shelf life control.
Ethnomethodology and the Non‐representational: What Are Disaffected Young White Men Capable of?
Authors: Loughenbury Rob
Published: June 2009

This short review draws together three research trajectories underway in contemporary human geography; ethnographic research with young white men living out changing urban contexts, non‐representational styles of thinking and experiments with ethnomethodological precepts and research practice. The article begins by examining the possibility of rapprochement between non‐representational and ethnomethodological thought. This unlikely meeting is applied to the possibility of an empirical engagement with young white men in Burnley, UK. In his report on the summer 2001 disturbances in Northern England's mill towns, Ted Cantle signals the political problem presented by ‘disaffected’ young white men. However, a generic concept of disaffection presents an obstacle to connecting those men, as capable individuals, to positive political futures. In response, this article speculates that studying the varied affective capacities behind disaffection will multiply the ways in which young white men may be recognised as capable political actors. The meeting of distinctive critiques of empiricism will enable an ethnographic approach well placed to generate understandings of how a variety of capacities to think, feel and act come to matter amid politically unsettled, post‐industrial urban environs.
The Psychology of News Influence and the Development of Media Framing Analysis
Authors: Giles David , Shaw Rachel L.
Published: June 2009

How precisely do media influence their readers, listeners and viewers? In this paper, we argue that any serious study of the psychology of media influence must incorporate a systematic analysis of media material. However, psychology presently lacks a methodology for doing this that is sensitive to context, relying on generalised methods like content or discourse analysis. In this paper, we develop an argument to support our development of a technique that we have called Media Framing Analysis (MFA), a formal procedure for conducting analyses of (primarily news) media texts. MFA draws on elements of existing framing research from communication and other social scientific research while at the same time incorporating features of particular relevance to psychology, such as narrative and characterisation.
Terrorism, Identity, and Conflict Management
Authors: Louis Winnifred R.
Published: June 2009

Social psychological research on the consequences and antecedents of terrorism are reviewed, and implications for conflict management are discussed. The research is theoretically and socially interesting because it deals with the intersection of identity and psychological threat with political choices in conflict. A model of identity politics and agentic normative influence is described which draws attention to the importance of stopping the spread of terrorist identity and norms as the key challenge in counter‐terrorism. An identity politics approach would argue that terrorists should be defined narrowly, while non‐violent leaders of the terrorists’ constituents should be recognized and rewarded as representatives of their constituents. As such, the analysis suggests a pessimistic prospect for terror in the 2010s.