bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Restoration of Dry Afromontane Forest Using Pioneer Shrubs as Nurse‐Plants for Olea europaea ssp. cuspidata
Authors: Aerts Raf , Negussie Aklilu , Maes Wouter , November Eva , Hermy Martin , Muys Bart
Published: February 2007

Shrubs are often considered competitive barriers for seedlings planted in reforestation programs, although they can facilitate tree recruitment, especially in ecosystems under high abiotic stress. An alternative reforestation technique using pioneer shrubs as nurse‐plants for Olea europaea ssp. cuspidata was tested in exclosures in northern Ethiopia. Seedlings were planted in three different microhabitats, and their survival was monitored. The microhabitats were bare soil patches between shrubs, patches under the dominant shrub Acacia etbaica, and patches under Euclea racemosa, an evergreen shrub, which supports the majority of naturally established Olea recruits. The ability of shrubs to offer protection against browsing goats was tested experimentally. Controlled shading was used to determine whether solar irradiation causes seedling mortality in environments without water stress. Data were analyzed using Kaplan–Meier survival analysis, Kruskal–Wallis analysis of variance (ANOVA), and one‐way ANOVA. Olea survival was significantly higher and shoot damage by goats was lower when planted under shrub cover compared to bare soil patches, particularly under Euclea canopies, although high shade levels reduced seedling performance. Reduction of solar radiation by shrub canopies and thus control of soil–water evaporation and seedling transpiration most likely controlled the observed facilitation. Planting under shrubs may increase seedling survival and assist regeneration of dry Afromontane vegetation. Preserving pioneers also reduces soil erosion and conserves biodiversity. Excluding livestock is essential for Olea woodland restoration and allows persistent but morphologically modified Olea shrubs to develop vigorous regrowth. Facilitative processes are guiding principles for assisted forest restoration, but above‐average rains may be critical to restore higher biomass levels in semiarid areas.
CYANIDIA (CYANIDIALES) POPULATION DIVERSITY AND DYNAMICS IN AN ACID‐SULFATE‐CHLORIDE SPRING IN YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK1
Authors: Lehr Corinne R. , Frank Shaun D. , Norris Tracy B. , D'Imperio Seth , Kalinin Alexey V. , Toplin Julie A. , Castenholz Richard W. , McDermott Timothy R.
Published: February 2007

The unicellular eukaryotic algae Cyanidium, Galdieria, and Cyanidioschyzon (herein referred to as “cyanidia”) are the only photoautotrophs occurring in acidic (pH<4.0) geothermal environments at temperatures above 40°C. In Yellowstone National Park (YNP), we examined an annual event we refer to as “mat decline,” where cyanidial mats undergo a seasonably defined color fading. Monthly sampling of chemical, physical, and biological features revealed that spring aqueous chemistry was essentially invariant over the 1‐year sampling period. However, multiple regression analysis suggested that a significant proportion of algal most probable number (MPN) count variation could be explained by water temperature and UV–visible (VIS) light exposure. Irradiance manipulations (filtering) were then coupled with 14CO2 incorporation experiments to directly demonstrate UV inhibition of photosynthesis. Population dynamics were also evident in 18S rDNA PCR clone libraries, which were different in composition at MPN maxima and minima, and again evident in PCR‐amplified chloroplast genomic short sequence repeat (SSR) analysis. PCR‐cloned SSRs of the YNP isolates and mats were very similar to Cyanidioschyzon merolae Luca, Taddei et Varano, although distance analysis could distinguish the YNP cyanidia from the genome sequenced C. merolae that was isolated in Italy. Unexpectedly, while phylogenetic analysis of 18S rDNA sequences and SSR sequences derived from YNP cyanidial mats and pure cultures suggested these algae are most closely related to C. merolae (99.7% identity), cell morphology was consistent with the genera Galdieria and Cyanidium.
THE “PARADOX” DIATOMBACILLARIA PAXILLIFER(BACILLARIOPHYTA) REVISITED1
Authors: Schmid Anna‐Maria M.
Published: February 2007

Defined by its unique colonial locomotion,Bacillaria paxillifer(O. F. Müll.) Hendey was recognized as a single, pandemic species by many phycologists. However, reinvestigation of colonies from different habitats revealed three distinct groups: (A) brackish/freshwater, (B) marine littoral, and (C) marine planktonic taxa. Groups differed in colony and cell form, raphe flanges (RFs), shape and position of transapical ribs (Tr's), and morphogenesis.Linear‐shaped species were restricted to group A: Tr's thickened principally to the interior.Lanceolateforms were confined to groups B and C: valve formation proceeded from an internal base layer to the exterior. The planktonic species differed in the shape of its raphe slit, and the transformation of girdle bands (GBs) into “winglets.” Taxa also differed in chloroplast shape and number. All species formed motile colonies. Siblings adhered via elastic fibrils secreted through their raphe. Raphe ribs were held in position by siliceous clamps (fibulae), anchored in an extra pair of axial ribs (fibular ribs) parallel to the raphe ribs. This raphe system resembled that ofCylindrothecarather than the “canal raphe” ofNitzschia. Many valves were asymmetric along the apical axis due to protruding RFs shuttling in a 1:1 ratio within a colony, but raphe slits were mirror images, as were the growth direction of fibulae and position of plastids, with pyrenoids tilted in the same direction. Species possessed four open GBs per epitheca; the third band invariably bore an internal, organic ridge to aid in adhesion of the plasmalemma during cleavage. The results suggested that these taxa are a natural phylogenetic group, requiring precise determination of their taxonomic position.
PHYSIOLOGICAL RESPONSES DURING DARK SURVIVAL AND RECOVERY INAUREOCOCCUS ANOPHAGEFFERENS(PELAGOPHYCEAE)1
Authors: Popels Linda C. , MacIntyre Hugh L. , Warner Mark E. , Zhang Yaohong , Hutchins David A.
Published: February 2007

The harmful bloom algaAureococcus anophagefferensHargraves et Sieburth can survive prolonged darkness, which could facilitate overwinter survival and dispersal by anthropogenic vectors such as ballast water. Experiments were conducted to examine the biochemical and photosynthetic changes in cells during dark storage. Cells were stored in the dark for periods from 2 to 14 days and were sampled at days 0, 1, 2, 4, 7, 10, and 14. Samples from days 2, 7, and 14 were monitored during a recovery period of 4–5 days. Physiological and photosynthetic parameters were measured during the dark storage and recovery periods. Cultures resumed growth quickly when returned to light, and bacterial counts remained constant during the dark storage period but increased rapidly during recovery periods. Cellular protein, carbohydrate, and lipid concentrations declined slightly during the dark period. There were no changes in chlaper cell or in RUBISCO per cell during 14 days of darkness. The data therefore suggest thatA. anophagefferensis able to maintain its photosynthetic apparatus during dark storage periods of at least 2 weeks and relies on cellular reserves until it is returned to light to resume photosynthesis. During the recovery period in the light, the cells are able to acclimate rapidly to current light levels and resume growth.
SPATIAL AND TEMPORAL VARIABILITY IN BIOMASS AND PRODUCTION OF PSAMMOPHYTIC HALIMEDA INCRASSATA (BRYOPSIDALES, CHLOROPHYTA) IN A CARIBBEAN REEF LAGOON1
Authors: Van Tussenbroek Brigitta I. , Van Dijk Jent Kornelis
Published: February 2007

Estimates for the production of calcium carbonate by Halimeda spp. have been based on limited measures in small areas or over short periods, subsequently extrapolated over larger temporal and spatial scales. The accuracy of these extrapolations depends on the variations in time and space of the parameters used for the derivations of the production, which were evaluated in the present study for Halimeda incrassata (J. Ellis) J. V. Lamour. in the Puerto Morelos reef lagoon, Mexican Caribbean. Growth, biomass, and CaCO3 content of the branches of the thalli were determined at 1–3 monthly intervals from November 1997 until June 1999, using the marking technique with the coloring agent Alizarin Red‐S. Biomass exhibited great variability (V=25.4%), and fluctuations were closely related to changes in thallus density. Growth and CaCO3‐content changes were related to the solar cycle, having coefficients of 15.4% and 2.5%, respectively. Additionally, calcified biomasses of the thalli were determined over a large spatial (31 stations in ∼7 km2 area) and time (6 y) scale. Spatial variability in calcified biomass was 59%, and the coefficient of variation attained its highest value (69%) for the samples collected over a 6 y period, from 1990 to 1996 (except 1995). Based on overall average values, branches of H. incrassata in the study area had a mean turnover of 30 d, with an annual production of 815 g CaCO3 per square meter.
MOLECULAR PHYLOGENY OF DISCOSPORANGIUM MESARTHROCARPUM (PHAEOPHYCEAE) WITH A REINSTATEMENT OF THE ORDER DISCOSPORANGIALES1
Authors: Kawai Hiroshi , Hanyuda Takeaki , Draisma Stefano G. A. , Müller Dieter G.
Published: February 2007

A molecular phylogenetic analysis of the little‐studied filamentous brown alga Discosporangium mesarthrocarpum (Meneghini) Hauck using rbcL and partial 18S rDNA sequences revealed that the species forms a monophyletic clade with Choristocarpus tenellus (Kütz.) Zanardini that is sister to all other brown algae. Although D. mesarthrocarpum has unique disk‐shaped plurilocular reproductive organs, D. mesarthrocarpum and C. tenellus share the following basic morphological features, which are considered to be plesiomorphic characters in the brown algae: (1) apical (and diffuse) growth; (2) uniseriate, subdichotomously branched filaments; (3) multiple chloroplasts per cell without pyrenoids; and (4) lack of heterotrichy and of phaeophycean hairs. The rbcL DNA sequence of an Australian D. mesarthrocarpum specimen showed considerable deviation from Mediterranean and Macaronesian specimens. Therefore, the presence of a second species in the genus is suggested; however, the taxonomic treatment of this putative species is not pursued in the present report. Regarding the higher‐ranking systematic position of D. mesarthrocarpum, reinstatement of Discosporangiaceae and Discosporangiales is proposed, and the inclusion of Choristocarpaceae in the order is also suggested. Under short‐day and long‐day culture conditions at 15°C–25°C, Mediterranean D. mesarthrocarpum exhibited a direct type of life history, with a succession of uniseriate filamentous thalli bearing characteristic disk‐shaped plurilocular zoidangia, but thalli did not survive at 10°C and below.
STRUCTURE AND EVOLUTION OF THE RDNA INTERNAL TRANSCRIBED SPACER (ITS) REGION 2 IN THE SYMBIOTIC DINOFLAGELLATES (SYMBIODINIUM, DINOPHYTA)1
Authors: Hunter Rebecca L. , LaJeunesse Todd C. , Santos Scott R.
Published: February 2007

Internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions of the eukaryotic rDNA operon are integral to the correct processing and maturation of rRNAs. To further understand the evolution of this region, we elucidated the secondary structure of ITS2 from representatives of the eight divergent clades of Symbiodinium Freud., a large genus of dinoflagellate endosymbionts occurring in association with zooxanthellate marine protists and invertebrates. Symbiodinium ITS2 molecules folded into one of two distinct conformations. One conformation, the “four‐fingered hand” model, has been described from a wide variety of eukaryotes, including free‐living dinoflagellates. A monophyletic assemblage comprising several Symbiodinium clades shared an unusual conformation, a five‐stem model previously known only from drosopholids, indicating that it arose in the common ancestor to this “superclade” of Symbiodinium. Several conserved features were identified in the ITS2 secondary structures, including a pyrimidine–pyrimidine bulge and a highly conserved 11 bp sequence motif, that correspond to known processing sites in other eukaryotes. Lastly, the ITS2 structural data are discussed in the context of Symbiodinium evolution, phylogenetics, and ecology.
ACTIN AND MYOSIN REGULATE PSEUDOPODIA OFPORPHYRA PULCHELLA(RHODOPHYTA) ARCHEOSPORES1
Authors: Ackland Jillian C. , West John A. , Pickett‐Heaps Jeremy
Published: February 2007

Archeospores ofPorphyra pulchellaAckland, J. A. West et Zuccarello (Rhodophyta) display amoeboid and gliding motility. Time‐lapse videomicroscopy revealed that amoeboid cells extend and retract pseudopodia as they translocate through the media. We investigated the involvement of actin and myosin in generating the force for amoeboid motility using immunofluorescence, time‐lapse videomicroscopy, and cytoskeletal inhibitors. Actin filaments were seen as short and long rodlike bundles around the periphery of spores. The actin inhibitors cytochalasin D (CD) and latrunculin B (Lat B), and the myosin inhibitor butanedione monoxime (BDM) disrupted the actin filament network and reversibly inhibited pseudopodial activity, resulting in the rounding and immobilization of spores. It was uncertain whether forward translocation of archeospores resumed following drug removal. These results demonstrate that actin and myosin have a role in generating force for pseudopodial activity. This is the first report of cytoskeletal involvement in red algal cell movement. The involvement of actin and myosin in forward translocation of amoeboid archeospores can only be speculated upon.
ALTERED ZYGOSPORE WALL ULTRASTRUCTURE CORRELATES WITH REDUCED ABIOTIC STRESS RESISTANCE IN A MUTANT STRAIN OF CHLAMYDOMONAS MONOICA (CHLOROPHYTA)1
Authors: Daniel Patricia , Henley Jessica , VanWinkle‐Swift Karen
Published: February 2007

The zygospore of Chlamydomonas is a diploid resting stage that provides protection from environmental extremes. The remarkable abiotic stress resistance of the zygospore can be explained, in part, by the presence of a massive wall that includes a sporopollenin‐containing surface layer (Van Winkle‐Swift and Rickoll 1997). A Chlamydomonas monoica Strehlow zygospore‐specific mutant strain (D19) was obtained previously by screening for loss of chloroform resistance in zygospore populations derived from self‐mating of post‐mutagenesis clones. Exposure of D19 zygospores to solar UV radiation or germicidal radiation also resulted in a pronounced decrease in survival of D19 zygospores relative to wildtype zygospore survival. Similarly, resistance to NaCl‐induced osmotic shock was reduced in D19 zygospores, especially when exposed to very high (e.g., 20% w/v) salt concentrations. Mature zygospores of C. monoica exhibit a UV‐induced blue surface autofluorescence that may indicate the presence of phenolic wall components. The intensity of zygospore autofluorescence was significantly reduced in D19 zygospores. As revealed by TEM, the surface layer of mature homozygous D19 zygospores was disrupted, suggesting a defect in wall assembly. Zygospore‐specific chloroform sensitivity, UV sensitivity, and reduced autofluorescence cosegregated in tetrads derived from D19 heterozygotes (i.e., if a progeny clone from a cross involving D19 and a normal strain was found to be chloroform sensitive, it was always also UV sensitive and showed reduced autofluorescence), indicating that all three characteristics were the consequence of the same Mendelian mutation.
Placebo Theory and Its Implications for Research and Clinical Practice: A Review of the Recent Literature
Authors: Koshi Edvin B. , Short Christine Ann
Published: February 2007

Abstract:  Although placebo effect is a common phenomenon in medicine and research, its mechanisms are not well understood. With the advent of modern medicine, placebo became a symbol for an outdated, morally questionable practice implying deceit and paternalism. However, in recent years, there has been an increasing amount of rigorous research into the mechanisms of placebo response and placebo analgesia with most studies coming from the field of pain medicine. New theories on placebo mechanisms have shown that placebo represents the psychosocial aspect of every treatment and the study of placebo is essentially the study of psychosocial context that surrounds the patient. Therefore, its understanding is essential for researchers and all medical practitioners, particularly those dealing with patients suffering from pain, depression, and motor disorders. In this article, we review the theories on placebo mechanisms and discuss their implications for clinical practice and the design of clinical trials.
A New Catheter Technique for Thoracic Subarachnoid Neurolysis in Advanced Lung Cancer Patients
Authors: El‐Sayed Ghada Gamal
Published: February 2007

Abstract:  Subarachnoid neurolytic block (dorsal rhizotomy) was carried out in patients suffering from severe pain unresponsive to analgesic therapy. An intrathecal catheter technique was performed in 20 patients with lung cancer. Visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, patient satisfaction, and complications were recorded at 24 hours, 1 week, and 1, 2, and 3 months after procedure. VAS and patient satisfaction significantly decreased at measured time points (P < 0.05). Duration of procedure was 20.3 ± 6.4 minutes; no significant complications were reported. This new intrathecal catheter technique for dorsal rhizotomy in advanced lung cancer patients was an easily performed, effective, and safe technique in this setting.
Pulsed Radiofrequency Application in the Treatment of Chronic Pain
Authors: Martin Dan C. , Willis Mark L. , Mullinax L. Ashley , Clarke Natalie L. , Homburger Jay A. , Berger Ines H.
Published: February 2007

Abstract:  The efficacy of pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) in the treatment of painful lumbosacral spondylosis has been reported. This case series reviews 22 consecutive patients presenting to clinic who had been previously treated with PRF with good results. Patients being prescribed opioids were excluded. During the PRF application, tissue temperature was limited to 43°C. A minimum of 200 mA of current was delivered in each case. The minimum current (at 50 Hz) necessary to stimulate the involved nerve was recorded. The duration of time from PRF treatment until the patient requested a subsequent application was documented. The effective duration of PRF in patients treated for lumbosacral spondylosis ranged from 5 to 18 months (mean ± SD: 9 ± 3.7 months; n = 16). PRF applications to dorsal root ganglia were effective from 2 to 12 months (7 ± 3.8 months; n = 8). Similar results were observed when PRF was applied to cervical medial branch nerves, one suprascapular nerve, and one stellate ganglion. The mean (50 Hz) sensory stimulation thresholds obtained before treatment ranged from 0.08 V to 0.14 V. In this select population of patients not receiving controlled substances, who had a favorable response to a previous PRF application, the duration of pain relief supports the use of PRF as an effective pain treatment.
Depression, Night Terrors, and Insomnia Associated With Long‐Term Intrathecal Clonidine Therapy
Authors: Bevacqua Brian K. , Fattouh Maher , Backonja Misha
Published: February 2007

Abstract:  Intraspinal clonidine is an effective adjunct to intrathecal/epidural opioid administration. We report a case of neuropathic pain treated with intraspinal analgesics in which depression, insomnia, and night terrors developed in association with intraspinal clonidine.
Optimizing the timing of chemotherapy for mobilizing autologous blood hematopoietic progenitor cells
Authors: Hicks Michelle L. , Lonial Sagar , Langston Amelia , Flowers Christopher , Roback John D. , Smith Kenneth J. , Mossavi Sai Sarah , Teagarden Diane , Hamilton Ellie S. , Waller Edmund K.
Published: February 2007

BACKGROUND: Postchemotherapy mobilization results were reviewed in patients undergoing apheresis before planned autologous hematopoietic progenitor cell (HPC) transplantation to improve the timing of collection procedures.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: A total of 135 attempts to collect autologous HPC were studied in 132 unique patients with lymphoid malignancies (non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma, multiple myeloma, and Hodgkin's disease). Chemotherapy mobilization regimens included cyclophosphamide (n = 59), ICE (n = 46), or other regimens (n = 30). Granulocyte–colony‐stimulating factor (CSF) was administered once daily at a dose of 5 μg per kg starting 2 days after the last dose of chemotherapy; granulocyte‐macrophage–CSF was added at a daily dose of 5 μg per kg 6 days later. Apheresis was initiated when the blood CD34+ content was more than 20 per μL.

RESULTS: In an initial cohort of 37 patients, 27 percent required apheresis during the weekend. An optimized timing for chemotherapy mobilization was developed based on retrospective data; prospective implementation of the new algorithm reduced the incidence of weekend apheresis to 13 percent in the subsequent 98 consecutive patients (p  < 0.05). A median of 9 × 106 (range, 0.4 × 106‐96 × 106) CD34+ cells per kg was collected from the entire cohort of 135 patients after a mean of 1.8 days of apheresis. Apheresis was initiated following a median (±SD) of 10 ± 2.7 days of cytokines.

CONCLUSION: In the majority of patients, the first day of apheresis occurred 11 to 13 days after the last dose of chemotherapy with a variety of different chemotherapy regimens. Administering the last dose of chemotherapy on Thursday or Friday versus Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday was associated with a 77 percent lower incidence in the frequency of weekend apheresis collections (p  < 0.001).
⊡ Human Behavior and Environmental Sustainability: Problems, Driving Forces, and Research Topics
Authors: Vlek Charles , Steg Linda
Published: February 2007

Social and behavioral research is crucial for securing environmental sustainability and improving human living environments. To put the following articles into broader perspective, we first give an overview of worldwide developments in environmental quality and trends in resource use. Second, five general driving forces of global environmental change are distinguished: population, affluence, technology, institutions, and culture; these are considered in view of critical transitions in the evolution of human society. Third, inspired by a four‐stage model approach to common resource dilemmas, our introduction describes this issue's specific topics for research and policy support concerning environmental sustainability at different scale levels. Finally, the necessity of multidisciplinary collaboration and desirable developments in environmental psychology are discussed.
Judgmental Discounting and Environmental Risk Perception: Dimensional Similarities, Domain Differences, and Implications for Sustainability
Authors: Gattig Alexander , Hendrickx Laurie
Published: February 2007

Environmental risks constitute a special category of risks because they often involve consequences that are highly uncertain, strongly delayed, occurring at distant places, and—therefore—mostly borne by others. Economic, decision–theoretic, and psychological research about the way people deal with such consequences is reviewed. Two major findings are presented: first, there is evidence that discounting mechanisms are stable across different preference dimensions (uncertainty, temporal, spatial, and social distance). Second, discount rates tend to vary across different problem domains (e.g., environmental vs. health vs. financial risks). In particular, it appears that temporal discounting is less pronounced for environmental risks than in other domains. Several factors are identified that affect the nature of the risk evaluation process, and it is argued that environmental risks differ from other risks on such factors. These environmental‐risk characteristics may have important implications for policy strategies to promote environmental sustainability. Contrary to other domains, appealing to the public's long‐term preferences may be successful. Also in policy making, insights from standard economic decision theory to environmental decision making should be applied with caution.
Annoyance Caused by Environmental Noise: Elements for Evidence‐Based Noise Policies
Authors: Miedema Henk M.E.
Published: February 2007

Because effects of environmental noise do not require extremely high or long exposures, they occur, with different degrees of intensity, in a substantial part of the world population, especially in areas with a dense population and dense transportation networks. As a consequence, noise is a global issue that continues to detract from sustainable development. This article attempts to contribute to evidence‐based noise policies by providing a review and systematization of noise‐effects modeling and findings. The results presented can be used in noise abatement policy to find the best practical ways of reducing noise‐induced effects through the reduction of noise exposure. At present, it is possible to calculate noise maps showing the exposures to noise in residential areas. With the relationships between exposure and effects as presented here, these can be translated into estimates of the number of people affected. Estimates of effects can be made on the basis of existing noise exposures, but also on the basis of scenarios for future noise levels, so that the consequences of different scenarios can be explored and decisions with respect to noise abatement measures can be optimized. Such an evidence‐based approach may be instrumental in reducing the worldwide burden of environmental noise.
Simulating Human Behavior for Understanding and Managing Environmental Resource Use
Authors: Jager Wander , Mosler Hans Joachim
Published: February 2007

Computer simulation allows for the experimental study of dynamic interactions between human behavior and complex environmental systems. Behavioral determinants and processes as identified in social‐scientific theory may be formalized in simulated agents to obtain a better understanding of man–environment interactions and of policy measures aimed at managing these interactions. A number of exemplary agent‐based simulation studies is discussed to demonstrate how simulations can be used to identify behavioral determinants and processes underlying environmental problems, and to explore the possible effects of policy strategies. Finally, we highlight how agent‐based simulation may contribute to our understanding of the dynamics of environmental resources, and how to manage them in a sustainable way.
Technology's Four Roles in Understanding Individuals' Conservation of Natural Resources
Authors: Midden Cees J. H. , Kaiser Florian G. , Teddy McCalley L.
Published: February 2007

An overview is presented of four ways in which human beings and technology interact with respect to the conservation of natural resources. The four roles technology plays are: (1) as intermediary, (2) as amplifier, (3) as determinant, and (4) as promoter of environmentally significant behavior. A review of pertinent literature supports the conclusion that behavioral scientists can contribute considerably to reducing overall environmental impact by analyzing human behavior and technology in concert. Problems and opportunities for interventions aimed to enhance resource conservation are discussed, such as rebound effects, allocation of control, and communication with users through technological‐environmental and sensory inputs. A major conclusion is that well‐designed technical environments, systems, and products have a great potential for supporting environmentally sustainable behavior.
Waltzing with a Monster: Bringing Research to Bear on Public Policy
Authors: Shinn Marybeth
Published: February 2007

Social scientists who want their research to influence social policy would do well to work with executive branch agencies, especially at state and local levels. Agency administrators are ready to use social science theories and evidence if the social science is brought to them. The article offers six principles for work with administrative agencies: (1) individual leaders matter, (2) timing matters, (3) ideas matter, (4) costs, and who bears the costs matter, (5) government is not monolithic, and (6) one cannot control the uses to which data are put. Working with government, like waltzing with a monster, is not unproblematic, but attending to these principles can help avoid some bruised toes.
A Linguistic Analysis of Simplified and Authentic Texts
Authors: CROSSLEY SCOTT A. , LOUWERSE MAX M. , McCARTHY PHILIP M. , McNAMARA DANIELLE S.
Published: February 2007

The opinions of second language learning (L2) theorists and researchers are divided over whether to use authentic or simplified reading texts as the means of input for beginning‐ and intermediate‐level L2 learners. Advocates of both approaches cite the use of linguistic features, syntax, and discourse structures as important elements in support of their arguments, but there has been no conclusive study that measures these differences and their implications for L2 learning. The purpose of this article is to provide an exploratory study that fills this gap. Using the computational tool Coh‐Metrix, this study investigates the differences between the linguistic structures of sampled simplified texts and those of authentic reading texts in order to provide a better understanding of the linguistic features that comprise these text types. The findings demonstrate that these texts differ significantly, but not always in the manner supposed by the authors of relevant scholarship. This research is meant to enable material developers, publishers, and classroom teachers to judge more accurately the value of both authentic and simplified texts.
Left Atrial Remodeling in Acute Anterior Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Bozkurt Engin , Arslan Sakir , Acikel Mahmut , Kemal Erol Mustafa , Gurlertop Yekta , Yilmaz Mustafa , Koca Harun , Atesal Sebahattin
Published: February 2007

Background: Our goal in this study was to examine the changes in the left atrial functions over a period of 3 months by using left atrial volume measurements in patients with anterior myocardial infarction (MI). Methods and Results: Seventy‐three patients with anterior MI who consulted our hospital in the first 12 hours starting from the onset of the chest pain and who exhibited ST elevation were enrolled in the study. The left atrial functions of the patients were evaluated by transthoracic echocardiography for a total number of four times; first at the time of the visit to the hospital, then in the first week, and then in the first and third months. Eight (10.95%) of the 73 patients included in the study died during the follow‐up. The remaining 65 patients completed the 3‐month study period. Of these 65 patients, primary percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) was performed for 24 (36.9%) patients and thrombolytic therapy was given to 13 (20%), whereas 28 (43.1%) patients were given only medical treatment. Left atrium (LA) maximum transverse diameter, LA maximum, minimum, and presystolic volume, LA active emptying volume and fraction were found to increase significantly in comparison to baseline detected for this parameter in the first and third months (P < 0.001). However, LA passive emptying volume and fraction was found to decrease significantly in comparison to baseline detected for this parameter in the first and third months (P < 0.001). Conclusions: An increase in the diameter, volume, and dimensions of LA during atrial remodeling was detected. LA passive emptying fraction was found to decrease, whereas atrial active emptying function was found to increase to compensate for this change.
Echocardiographic Diagnosis of Persistent Fifth Aortic Arch
Authors: Bernheimer Jonathan , Friedberg Mark , Chan Frandics , Silverman Norman
Published: February 2007

We describe echocardiography and computerized tomographic imaging findings in the two subtypes of fifth aortic arch in infants. In the first form, the fifth aortic arch creates a systemic to systemic connection extending from the ascending to the descending aorta. When this form appears in isolation, it does not cause hemodynamic disturbance, although associated cardiac lesions, such as aortic coarctation or interruption and patent ductus arteriosus, may influence the clinical presentation. In the second form the fifth aortic arch connects the systemic and pulmonary circulations from persistent connections between the embryological fifth and sixth arches, which may cause significant hemodynamic disturbance from left to right shunting. Although this form has been associated with a wide array of congenital cardiac lesions, this is the first description of 5th aortic arch in association with atrioventricular septal defect and double outlet right ventricle.
The Role of Echocardiography in Diagnosis and Management of Isolated Meningococcal Pericarditis
Authors: Falcão Sandra N. R. S. , Tsutsui Jeane Mike , Ramires Felix J. , De Oliveira Tathiana Delgado , Mady Charles , Ramires José A.F. , Mathias Wilson
Published: February 2007

Although pericarditis may complicate the course of meningococcemia, it is distinctly unusual as a presenting sign. Herein we report a case of a previously healthy 16‐year‐old male with isolated meningococcal pericarditis, in which transthoracic echocardiography was of great importance for the initial diagnosis and for guiding the therapeutic approach during the hospitalization period. The patient presented with symptoms of chest pain and fever that deteriorated into cardiac tamponade. Pericardiocentesis was successful and Neisseria meningitidis was identified as the causative agent in the pericardial fluid. Because of failure of clinical resolution, echocardiogram was repeated and showed evidence of maintenance of large echo dense content in pericardial space. The presence of purulent content was confirmed during open‐chest surgery. The role of echocardiography for the correct management of this rare form of pericarditis is discussed.
Real‐Time Nucleation and Crystallization Studies of a Fluorapatite Glass–Ceramics Using Small‐Angle Neutron Scattering and Neutron Diffraction
Authors: Hill Robert , Calver Adam , Stamboulis Artemis , Bubb Nigel
Published: February 2007

Real‐time small‐angle neutron scattering (SANS) and neutron diffraction (ND) studies have been performed on a calcium fluorapatite (Ca5(PO4)3F) (FAP) glass–ceramic composition. The cast glass exhibited scattering at low q and a peak in I(q) at higher q. The scattering at low q is thought to arise from a larger‐scale nucleated structure, while the peak in I(q) is thought to arise from a finer spinodally decomposed structure. High temperature viscoelastic measurements show two reductions in the storage modulus (E′) and two peaks in the damping factor (tan δ) consistent with a glass that has undergone amorphous phase separation (APS) during the casting process. On heating to 780°C, the scattering at low q increased in intensity, while the peak in I(q) increased in intensity and moved to lower q, consistent with the coarsening of the finer scale phase separated structure. During isothermal experiments, the scattering at low q increased in intensity and the peak in I(q) moved to lower q, corresponding to a final spacing of about 35 nm. After about 30 min at 740°C, and 12 min at 750°C the coarsening process effectively stopped and is inhibited by the glass transition temperature (Tg) of the second glass phase. ND showed the glass to crystallize on heating to FAP and then mullite (2SiO2·3Al2O3). At high temperatures, both the FAP and mullite crystal phases partially re‐dissolved, but were found to re‐crystallize rapidly on subsequent cooling. The results indicate that the proposed crystal growth hold is actually a crystal dissolution hold, with re‐crystallization occurring rapidly on cooling. The results indicate that it is important to control not only the heat‐treatment cycle but also the cooling cycle.
Determining Kinetic Parameters for Isothermal Crystallization of Glasses
Authors: Ray C. S. , Zhang T. , Reis S. T. , Brow R. K.
Published: February 2007

Non‐isothermal crystallization techniques are frequently used to determine the kinetic parameters for crystallization in glasses. The techniques are experimentally simple and quick, compared with isothermal techniques. However, the analytical models used for non‐isothermal data analysis, that were derived from models originally developed for describing isothermal transformation kinetics, are fundamentally flawed. The present paper describes a technique for determining the kinetic parameters for isothermal crystallization in glasses, which eliminates most of the common problems that generally make the study of isothermal crystallization laborious and time consuming. In this technique, the volume fraction of a glass that is crystallized as a function of time during an isothermal hold was determined in a separate experiment using differential thermal analysis. The activation energy (345±10 kJ/mole) and Avrami parameter (0.89±0.09) for crystallization of Li2O·2SiO2 glass determined by the present technique are consistent with the similar values reported in the literature.
Examination of the Steps Leading up to the Physical Developer Process for Developing Fingerprints
Authors: Wilson Jeffrey Daniel , Cantu Antonio A. , Antonopoulos George , Surrency Marc J.
Published: February 2007

ABSTRACT: This is a systematic study that examines several acid prewashes and water rinses on paper bearing latent prints before its treatment with a silver physical developer. Specimens or items processed with this method are usually pretreated with an acid wash to neutralize calcium carbonate from the paper before the treatment with a physical developer. Two different acids at varying concentrations were tested on fingerprints. Many different types of paper were examined in order to determine which acid prewash was the most beneficial. Various wash times as well as the addition of a water rinse step before the development were also examined. A pH study was included that monitored the acidity of the solution during the wash step. Scanning electron microscopy was used to verify surface calcium levels for the paper samples throughout the experiment. Malic acid at a concentration of 2.5% proved to be an ideal acid for most papers, providing good fingerprint development with minimal background development. Water rinses were deemed unnecessary before physical development.
Comparative Analysis of Gamma‐Hydroxybutyrate and Gamma‐Hydroxyvalerate Using GC/MS and HPLC*
Authors: Mercer Jennifer W. , Oldfield Lucy S. , Hoffman Kristin N. , Shakleya Diaa M. , Bell Suzanne C.
Published: February 2007

ABSTRACT: This paper describes two analytical techniques used to separate and quantify gamma‐hydroxybutyrate (GHB) and gamma‐hydroxyvalerate (GHV). The first technique was a N,O‐bis(trimethylsilyl)triflouro‐acetimide–trimethylchlorosilane derivatization, followed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry analysis using an HP‐5 capillary column at a rate of 1.0 mL/min with a run time of 9.25 min. This technique was found to be sensitive (LOD 1 pg on column) and gave a low average error (5%) in a beverage study. When supplemented by a surrogate spike, the method yielded 97% analyte recovery from beverages. The second technique was high‐performance liquid chromatography/UV (HPLC/UV) using a C‐18 column with a (20:80% v/v) methanol:dibasic phosphoric buffer (10 mM, pH 3) at a rate of 1.00 mL/min with a run time of 7.5 min. UV detection occurred at 254 nm. This method was found to be less sensitive (LOD 0.05 μg on column) for direct analysis of aqueous samples. To remove interferences seen in the beverage study, a liquid–liquid extraction before HPLC analysis was tested. However, a decreased sensitivity (LOD 100 μg on column) and irreproducible peak profiles resulted.
Genetic Data of 4 X‐Chromosomal Short Tandem Repeats in a North of Portugal Population
Authors: Cainé Laura M. , Pontes Lurdes , Abrantes David , Lima Gabriela , Pinheiro Fátima
Published: February 2007

POPULATION: One hundred unrelated females and 100 unrelated males, autochthonous, healthy, from the North of Portugal.
Polymorphism Analysis of Y‐Chromosomal Haplotypes in the Chinese Han Population Living in the Shaanxi Province of China
Authors: Xing Junping , Liu Yuzhe , Cui Xianfeng , Sun Jianhua , Qiu Shudong
Published: February 2007

POPULATION: Chinese Han population living in the Shaanxi Province of China.
Melanocytic skin lesions and pregnancy: digital dermoscopy analysis
Authors: Rubegni Pietro , Sbano Paolo , Burroni Marco , Cevenini Gabriele , Bocchi Caterina , Severi Filiberto Maria , Risulo Massimiliano , Petraglia Felice , Dell'Eva Giordana , Fimiani Michele , Andreassi Lucio
Published: February 2007

Background: Very few studies have tried to clarify how pregnancy influences the morphology of pigmented skin lesions (PSL). Our purpose was to objectively determine, by digital dermoscopy analysis (DDA), any dermoscopic changes of acquired melanocitic nevi during pregnancy and after 1 year from delivery.

Methods: Thirty‐five healthy pregnant women and 35 age‐matched female controls were enrolled in the study. Nevi of pregnant women were analysed by DDA between 5 and 8 weeks of pregnancy, between 39 and 41 weeks of pregnancy and 12 months after delivery. Nevi of control women were analysed by DDA in a month of the year matching the period of recruitment of pregnant women and 21 months later.

Results: Multivariate analysis of variance (manova) for repeated measures revealed that dermoscopic variables SKIN‐GREEN‐AVERAGE, SKIN‐BLUE‐AVERAGE and CONTRAST changed during pregnancy but returned to non‐significant values after a year from delivery. The variable ENTROPY showed significant differences between initial evaluation and 1 year after delivery. Finally, the variable VARIANCE OF BORDER GRADIENT showed a significant difference between the first and the last evaluations, in both pregnant and control subjects.

Conclusions: The study showed that pregnancy leads to significant modifications in PSL, especially with regard to pigment network, globules and architectural order or disorder.
Effect of room humidity on the formation of fine wrinkles in the facial skin of Japanese
Authors: Tsukahara Kazue , Hotta Mitsuyuki , Fujimura Tsutomu , Haketa Keiichi , Kitahara Takashi
Published: February 2007

Background/purpose: Changes in humidity are commonly known to influence the condition of the skin. Previous studies of the skin dealt with variations in relative humidity (RH) either through statistical analysis or by maintaining room humidity at a constant level; however, the range of humidity and the length of acclimation varied in each study. This study aimed to determine whether the generally used ranges of RH are truly acceptable for studies of human skin.

Methods: Skin conductance, elasticity and fine wrinkles were assessed on the eyelids of 20 volunteers, first after acclimation for 30 min in a high‐humidity room (70% RH) and again after acclimation for 30 min in a low‐humidity room (40% RH).

Results: The study found significant decreases in skin conductance and elasticity and significant increases in fine wrinkles after acclimation to low humidity compared with high humidity.

Conclusion: These results indicate that even a 30% difference in RH can affect skin properties in 30 min. The importance of humidity stabilization and the necessity of acclimation to the humidity, particularly when the study concerns wrinkles, were thus confirmed.
Dye exclusion as a means to measure wetness protection of human skin
Authors: Tate Martha , Grove Gary , Joch Rhonda , Laabs John , Menard Karen , Nelson Brenda , Shepard Kristin , Zepp Rick , Zerweck Charles , Zuleger Roxanne
Published: February 2007

Background/purpose: Excessive skin hydration from occlusive coverings such as absorbent articles, bandages, etc. has been known to compromise the skin's barrier properties. Damage to the stratum corneum occurs from prolonged exposure to wetness and limited product breathability, which reduces evaporation. Protection from wetness may be imparted by barrier materials, such as lotions and ointments on the skin. Barrier materials are traditionally applied by hand from bulk containers (bottle or tube). In recent years, diapers have been made that contain barrier ointments designed to transfer to the skin during wear. The purpose of this research was to develop a reliable in vivo method for evaluating skin wetness protection when using personal products.

Method: The means for evaluating wetness protection in vivo is dye exclusion evaluation on human skin. Dye exclusion involves application of a barrier material, followed by dye application and skin staining evaluation. The dye exclusion method may be conducted on adult forearms with direct application of the barrier material or on infant or adult torsos after wearing a diaper or incontinence product (or other personal products) that contains the barrier material. Dye exclusion on infants used cosmetic dyes (safe for use in the eye area).

Results: Dye exclusion demonstrated skin protection on both adult forearms and on infant buttocks. Ointments in diapers protected the skin from the dye when diapers were worn from a few hours to several days (with appropriate changes of product).

Conclusion: The dye exclusion method was able to demonstrate the advantage of barrier ointments for wetness protection and also to discriminate between ointment formulations.
Association of short‐term memory with a variant within DYX1C1 in developmental dyslexia
Authors: Marino C. , Citterio A. , Giorda R. , Facoetti A. , Menozzi G. , Vanzin L. , Lorusso M. L. , Nobile M. , Molteni M.
Published: February 2007

A substantial genetic contribution in the etiology of developmental dyslexia (DD) has been well documented with independent groups reporting a susceptibility locus on chromosome 15q. After the identification of the DYX1C1 gene as a potential candidate for DD, several independent association studies reported controversial results. We performed a family‐based association study to determine whether the DYX1C1 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that have been associated with DD before, that is SNPs ‘−3GA’ and ‘1249GT’, influence a broader phenotypic definition of DD. A significant linkage disequilibrium was observed with ‘Single Letter Backward Span’ (SLBS) in both single‐marker and haplotype analyses. These results provide further support to the association between DD and DYX1C1 and it suggests that the linkage disequilibrium with DYX1C1 is more saliently explained in Italian dyslexics by short‐term memory, as measured by ‘SLBS’, than by the categorical diagnosis of DD or other related phenotypes.
Lateralization of hand skill in bipolar affective disorder
Authors: Savitz J. , Van Der Merwe L. , Solms M. , Ramesar R.
Published: February 2007

Diverse strands of evidence suggest that schizophrenia is associated with an excess of left and mixed handedness, reflecting anomalous cerebral lateralization. Genetic studies have indicated a degree of overlap between bipolar disorder (BPD) and schizophrenia. Nevertheless, pattern of handedness and degree of lateralization have not been explicitly tested in BPD. We measured handedness, footedness and relative manual dexterity in a sample of 47 families comprising BPD probands and their bipolar‐spectrum and unaffected relatives (N = 240). The BPD I sample (N = 55) was significantly more lateralized on handedness, footedness and relative manual dexterity than their unaffected relatives (N = 66). They were also more lateralized than their relatives with other psychiatric diagnoses. No evidence of excess mixed handedness or footedness was observed in the BPD I sample. We raise the possibility that schizophrenia and BPD I differ in that disproportionate left‐hemisphere dominance in BPD I is associated with right‐hemisphere dysfunction leading to deficits in emotional regulation. Given our results, we hypothesized that degree of lateralization may be a phenotypic marker or endophenotype for BPD I. We therefore conducted a family‐based genetic association analysis with this quantitative trait. Relative hand skill was significantly associated with a functional variant in the catechol‐O‐methyltransferase gene. We speculate that this polymorphism may influence brain lateralization.