bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Capacitation of Frozen Thawed Buffalo Bull (Bubalus bubalis) Spermatozoa with Higher Heparin Concentrations
Authors: Mehmood A , Anwar M , Saqlan Naqvi SM
Published: May 2007

Contents

The present study was conducted to examine the effect of high heparin concentration on capacitation of buffalo spermatozoa with a short incubation time. Frozen thawed spermatozoa from three buffalo bulls were pooled and treated with either 50, 100 or 200 μg/ml heparin for 30 min. Capacitation was evaluated by acrosome reaction of spermatozoa and in vitro fertilization rate (per cent cleavage rate, per cent cleavage index). Acrosome reaction was induced in heparin treated spermatozoa with calcium ionophore A23187 and staining was carried out with Coomassie G‐250 to evaluate the response as compared with control (0 heparin + calcium ionophore). Significantly higher percentage of acrosome reaction (AR) spermatozoa was noted after heparin treatment (36.8–48.2%) as compared with control (8.1% ; p < 0.05) but differences among the three heparin concentrations were non‐significant. However, a significantly higher in vitro fertilization rate was recorded in spermatozoa capacitated by 50 and 100 μg/ml heparin (80.4 and 75.9% cleavage rate, respectively) as compared with 200 μg/ml heparin (47.2% cleavage rate; p < 0.001). It is concluded that buffalo spermatozoa capacitated with 50–100 μg/ml heparin had significantly higher ability to improve in vitro fertilization rate in buffalo.
Acute effects of methylphenidate on performance during the Test of Variables of Attention in children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder
Authors: HUANG YU‐SHU , CHAO CHIA‐CHEN , WU YU‐YU , CHEN YU‐YING , CHEN CHIH‐KEN
Published: May 2007

Abstract  This study attempted to determine the acute effects of methylphenidate (MPH) on cognitive performance using the Test of Variables of Attention (TOVA) in children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The study subjects comprised 57 children diagnosed with ADHD aged 6–13 years. Diagnoses of ADHD and other comorbid psychiatric disorders were based on Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders‐fourth edition criteria following a standard interview with the Schedule for Affective Disorder and Schizophrenia for School‐Age Children, epidemiologic version. The subjects' performance on the TOVA was compared before and 1 h after administration of MPH. After administration of MPH, commission scores, response time and ADHD scores improved significantly, however, there were no significant changes in omission scores, response time variability or response sensitivity. The authors concluded that administration of one dose of MPH (0.5–1.0 mg/kg) produced more effects on impulsivity than on attention deficiency in children with ADHD, and that the second half section of the TOVA could be more sensitive than the first half in determining the acute effects of MPH therapy in children with ADHD. However, the effects of different MPH doses on the TOVA results need further investigation.
Different serum concentrations of steady‐state valproic acid in two sustained‐release formulations
Authors: YASUI‐FURUKORI NORIO , SAITO MANABU , NAKAGAMI TAKU , NIIOKA TAKENORI , SATO YASUSHI , FUJII AKIRA , KANEKO SUNAO
Published: May 2007

Abstract  Recently a new sustained‐release formulation of valproic acid has been developed in Japan. The sustained‐release mechanism of the new formulation was different from the conventional formulation. The aim of the present study was to compare the pharmacokinetic characteristics of valproic acid in two sustained‐release formulations. Different sustained‐release formulations of valproic acid (Depakene R and Selenica R) were administered in a randomized cross‐over fashion in repeated doses in 24 psychiatric patients. After ≥4 weeks administration of valproic acid once daily, blood samples were taken just before (0 h) and 8, 12, 24 h after the morning dose. Blood sampling was performed in the same manner in the same patients 4 weeks after switching from one to the other formulation of valproic acid. Serum concentrations of valproic acid at 0 h (50.7 ± 19.4 vs 44.9 ± 21.8 μg/mL, P < 0.05) and 24 h (52.3 ± 19.54 vs 6.2 ± 22.2 μg/mL, P < 0.05) were significantly higher during Selenica R than during Depakene R treatment, whereas the serum concentration of valproic acid at 8 h (49.7 ± 19.2 vs 62.4 ± 25.6 μg/mL, P < 0.01) was significantly lower during Selenica R treatment than during Depakene R treatment. Serum concentrations of valproic acid at 12 h were not different. The present study demonstrated that steady‐state serum concentrations were different because of the different dissolution profiles. When a prescription for valproic acid is switched from one drug to the other, prescribers should be aware that the therapeutic drug monitoring data are not consistent.
Japanese midwives as psychiatric diagnosticians: Application of criteria of DSM‐IV mood and anxiety disorders to case vignettes
Authors: YAMASHITA HARUE , ARIYOSHI AKIYO , UCHIDA HISAE , TANISHIMA HARUE , KITAMURA TOSHINORI , NAKANO HITOO
Published: May 2007

Abstract  It is believed in Japan that only psychiatrists are capable of providing reliable psychiatric diagnosis. However, more awareness of mental health issues related to perinatal care means that midwives are now required to have psychiatric diagnostic skills. The purpose of the present paper was to examine how well Japanese midwives agreed with a psychiatrist on diagnoses of different psychiatric disorders. Vignettes of 29 cases including DSM‐IV mood disorders (major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder) and anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, phobic disorders, and obsessive‐compulsive disorder) were distributed to 12 Japanese midwives. They decided the DSM‐IV diagnoses independently and compared them with those made by an expert. The kappa coefficients of the diagnoses with a base rate of 0.1 or more were moderate to almost perfect (0.64–0.83). The accuracy of symptom assessment was also satisfactory. Appropriately trained Japanese midwives can use the diagnostic criteria for psychiatric disorders reliably. It is therefore feasible to dispatch midwives who are trained in psychiatric diagnosis to antenatal clinics.
New assessment of dependency in demented patients: Impact on the quality of life in informal caregivers
Authors: ANDRIEU SANDRINE , RIVE BENOÎT , GUILHAUME CHANTAL , KURZ XAVIER , SCUVÉE‐MOREAU JACQUELINE , GRAND ALAIN , DRESSE ALBERT
Published: May 2007

Abstract  A qualitative tool was recently developed for evaluation of dependency in a demented population. This tool assesses the impact of cognitive impairment on functional status, taking into account disability in both the basic and the instrumental activities of daily living. The purpose of the present paper was to study the impact of dependency on informal caregivers who assist demented patients at home, with this new useful tool. Methods: A cross‐sectional analysis was undertaken of the subgroup of 145 demented patients of the National Dementia Economic Study, aged ≥65 years, living in the community, with an available caregiver. A neuropsychological assessment of patients (Mini‐Mental State Examination) and a comprehensive evaluation of caregivers (quality of life, Short Form Health Survey‐36, depression, Sense of Competence) were recorded. A total of 32.4% were dependent, disabled in both basic and instrumental functions, 42.1% were non‐dependent but with instrumental functional disabilities and 25.5% were non‐dependent. Impact of dependency on the caregiver's experience was significant for different aspects (satisfaction with caregiving, subjective burden, quality of life, depression). Medical and non‐medical costs increased with the severity of functional disability. Findings indicate that this tool is also useful to assess the impact of progression of functional disability in patients with dementia, on the caregiver issues. The consequences appeared both on personal feelings and on quality of life and financial involvement in management of the patient. Cognitive impairment appears to have more moderate repercussions in these areas.
Factors affecting time to rehospitalization for patients with major depressive disorder
Authors: LIN CHING‐HUA , CHEN YONG‐SHING , LIN CHIEH‐HSIN. , LIN KENG‐SHIN
Published: May 2007

Abstract  Major depressive disorder is a common psychiatric condition. Hospitalization is usually indicated for patients with more severe symptoms and severe functional impairment. Rehospitalization is known as the re‐emergence of significant depressive symptoms. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the risk factors affecting time to rehospitalization. Rehospitalization status was monitored for all patients with major depressive disorder discharged from Kai‐Suan Psychiatric Hospital between 1 January 2002 and 31 December 2003. Patients were followed up with respect to rehospitalization until 31 December 2004. The Kaplan–Meier method was used to calculate the median time to rehospitalization. Risk factors associated with rehospitalization were examined on Cox proportional hazards regression. Three hundred patients were recruited. Median time to readmission was 174 days (SD = 37). Comorbid alcohol abuse/dependence (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.841, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.229–2.758, P < 0.01), comorbid personality disorders (HR = 1.530, 95%CI = 1.053–2.223, P < 0.05), and the number of previous hospitalizations (HR = 1.121, 95%CI = 1.056–1.190, P < 0.001) were found to be predictors of the shorter time to rehospitalization over the 360‐day study. Further research should be carried out to test risk factors in a prospective study, and to study the cost‐effectiveness of interventions to reduce risk factors and rehospitalizations.
Once‐daily duloxetine 60 mg in the treatment of major depressive disorder: Multicenter, double‐blind, randomized, paroxetine‐controlled, non‐inferiority trial in China, Korea, Taiwan and Brazil
Authors: LEE PHIL , SHU LIANG , XU XIUFENG , WANG CHUAN YUE , LEE MIN SOO , LIU CHIA‐YIH , HONG JIN PYO , RUSCHEL SANDRA , RASKIN JOEL , COLMAN SAMUEL A , HARRISON GAVAN A
Published: May 2007

Abstract  The aim of the present paper was to compare the efficacy and safety of duloxetine with paroxetine in the acute treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD). In a randomized, double‐blind trial of 8 weeks active treatment, patients with non‐psychotic MDD were randomized to duloxetine 60 mg (n = 238) or paroxetine 20 mg (n = 240) once daily. Efficacy was primarily measured on change in the 17‐item Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAMD17) using a non‐inferiority test with a margin of 2.2. Secondary efficacy measures included the HAMD17 subscales, Hamilton Rating Scale for Anxiety, Clinical Global Impressions–Severity, Patient Global Impressions–Improvement, Somatic Symptoms Inventory and Visual Analog Scales (VAS) for pain. Safety measures included treatment‐emergent adverse events (TEAE), vital signs, weight, laboratory analyses and electrocardiograms. Non‐inferiority of duloxetine to paroxetine was demonstrated because the upper bound of the confidence interval for mean difference in HAMD17 change (0.71) was less than the non‐inferiority margin. Secondary efficacy end‐points did not differ significantly between treatments with the exception of VAS back pain, where the pooled mean was lower in the duloxetine group (17.1) compared with the paroxetine group (20.3, P = 0.048). No significant differences were observed in the number of early discontinuations and overall TEAE. However, significantly greater proportions of patients in the duloxetine group experienced nausea and palpitations. No clinically relevant changes in laboratory values, vital signs, weight or electrocardiograms were observed with either treatment. The present study verifies the utility of duloxetine as an efficacious and safe treatment for both emotional and physical symptoms of MDD in this predominantly Asian patient sample.
A method to provide integrated care for complex medically ill patients: The INTERMED
Authors: Latour Cornelia H. M. , Huyse Frederik J. , De Vos Rien , Stalman Wilhelmus A. B.
Published: May 2007

Abstract A growing number of nursing subspecializations have been developed in recent decades. Topics of concern are that care is not tailored to cope with the growing number of patients with more than one chronic disease, there is an increase in co‐ordination problems in the care that is provided for this group of complex patients, and the care for these complex patients is extremely fragmented. The assessment of health risks resulting in co‐ordinated care with effective communication is vital for multimorbid patients. Our aim is to describe a systematic approach (the INTERMED [IM] method) to identify complex patients who are in need of integrated care and its applicability to the nursing process. We demonstrate the ability of the IM method to quantify, weigh, and classify the complexity of problems. The method is applied in Europe and will be started in the USA in a pharmacy program. The IM is presented as a decision‐support system for multidisciplinary teams with nurse co‐ordinators.
An education initiative to increase staff knowledge of Institutional Review Board guidelines in the USA
Authors: Kotzer Anne Marie , Milton Jerrod
Published: May 2007

Abstract  Health‐care professionals and researchers often lack a clear understanding of the role and function of an Institutional Review Board (IRB) and few have received formal education regarding IRB guidelines, policies, and procedures. The purpose of this study was to develop an initiative to educate staff concerning fundamental IRB guidelines and to assess the retention of the information from the educational intervention with a pretest and post‐test. Using a descriptive survey design, 643 professional staff were contacted by email and asked to complete an online survey. Thereafter, staff received a “10 Second IRB Update” every 2 weeks for 6 months, after which the initial survey was repeated. Although there was a slight improvement in the pretest/post‐test scores for some groups, no statistically significant differences were seen. Anecdotally, staff expressed enthusiasm about the initiative, stating the updates were very effective and a great teaching tool. The findings emphasize the need to continue to explore creative approaches to education regarding IRB policies and procedures.
Job engagement’s paradoxical role in nurse burnout
Authors: Vinje Hege F. , Mittelmark Maurice B.
Published: May 2007

Abstract  Interviews were undertaken with 11 community health nurses and qualitative analysis sought to illuminate the ways in which job engagement was connected to their health and functioning. High job engagement followed from the nurses’ deep feeling of calling to the nursing profession and contributed to a strong sense of duty and strict self‐demand regarding one’s own and other’s levels of performance. In nine cases, perceived failures to live up to their own performance demands contributed to the nurses’ near‐burnout. This triggered extensive introspection and reflection, leading to positive coping and avoidance of burnout. The nurses coped by using their well‐honed skills in introspection and reflection, which they had practiced habitually all their careers, to help them determine which personal and professional changes were required to maintain job engagement and satisfaction. Paradoxically, job engagement can not only promote thriving on the job, but also contribute to negative processes leading to poor functioning.
Attenuation of ureteral obstruction‐induced renal injury by polyenylphosphatidylcholine
Authors: Akin Melih , Demirbilek Savas , AY Selma , Gurunluoglu Kubilay , Turkmen Emine , Tas Erkan , Aksoy Rauf Tugrul , Baykarabulut Aysun , Edali Mehmet Naci
Published: May 2007

Background:  The cytoprotective, antioxidant and antifibrotic effects of polyenylphosphatidylcholine (lecithin, PPC) have been demonstrated both experimentally and clinically. The present study investigated whether PPC treatment has any beneficial effect on renal injury in unilateral partial ureteral obstruction (UUO) in rats.

Methods:  Forty Wistar–Albino rats were split into three groups (sham‐operated controls, untreated and treated rats). Rats of the untreated and treated groups (n = 15) underwent UUO with two‐thirds of the left ureter embedded in the psoas muscle. In group 3, PPC was given orally at a dose of 100 mg/day for 30 days. At the end of the 30th day of the experimental period, obstructed kidneys and blood samples were harvested. To investigate the therapeutic efficacy of PPC treatment in UUO kidneys, oxidant and antioxidant enzyme levels, lipid peroxidation, proinflammatory cytokines (interleukin‐1, interleukin‐6, tumor necrosis factor alpha), transforming growth factor beta‐1 (TGFβ‐1), alpha smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA) and nuclear factor kappa beta (NF‐κβ) expression, leukocyte infiltration (ED1, ED2, CD4 and CD8 immunohistochemistry), and tubulointerstitial damage in the obstructed kidneys were studied.

Results:  Oxidative stress, neutrophil infiltration, release of cytotoxic mediators, TGFβ‐1 levels, tubulointerstitial damage, alpha‐SMA and NF‐KB expressions in kidney tissue were significantly increased in the UUO rats. PPC treatment attenuated oxidative stress, leukocyte infiltration, cytotoxic mediator, and TGFβ‐1 levels and also decreased expressions of α‐SMA and NF‐κβ. It was associated with decreased tubulointerstitial damage, compared with UUO alone.

Conclusions:  These results indicate that PPC treatment protects against UUO‐induced renal injury in rats possibly through its antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory and antifibrotic actions.
Combined endoscopic and laparoscopic en bloc resection of the urachus and the bladder dome in a rare case of urachal carcinoma
Authors: Porpiglia Francesco , Cracco Cecilia M , Terrone Carlo , Cossu Marco , Renard Julien , Billia Michele , Scarpa Roberto M
Published: May 2007

Abstract:  Urachal carcinoma is a rare neoplasm treated with surgical resection. We report a case of adenocarcinoma of the urachus treated with a new surgical technique. In a 44‐year‐old man affected by urachal carcinoma we performed a combined endoscopic–laparoscopic surgical en bloc resection of the urachus and bladder dome. The procedure lasted 240 min, and no postoperative complications were recorded. The patient was discharged on fourth day and the catheter was removed on eighth day. Bladder capability resulted normal with no evident physical change. Multiple bladder biopsy and computed tomography scans at 6, 12 and 18 months proved negative.
Radical cystectomy with preservation of sexual function and fertility in patients with transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder: New technique
Authors: Salem Hosni Khairy
Published: May 2007

Objectives:  Radical cystectomy is the standard treatment for patients with invasive bladder carcinoma. Preservation of sexual function and fertility are important for surgery acceptance in young patients with this disease, and part of the prostate is generally preserved for this reason; however, this may compromise the radical nature of the surgery. Herein a novel technique of radical cystectomy with preservation of the vas deferens only is described aimed at preservation of sexual function and better cancer control.

Methods:  Between March 2002 and February 2004, four potent male patients with muscle invasive transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder underwent nerve‐sparing radical cystectomy with urinary diversion. The bladder, prostate with prostatic urethra, regional lymph nodes and seminal vesicles were removed while the vas deferens was preserved until its terminal end and anastomosed (in the perineum) to the bulbar urethra (end to side). The diversion was ureterocolic in three patients and ileal conduit in one patient. The median age of the patients was 45.0 years (range 35–55). The mean follow‐up was 35.5 months (range 23–46 months).

Results:  There was no mortality. All patients were free of the disease (no local or distant recurrence) at the last follow‐up. All patients reported adequate sexual function with normal erections and satisfactory intercourse similar to that reported before surgery. Two patients maintained antegrade ejaculation allowing procreation in one case.

Conclusion:  This technique allows preservation of sexual function in nearly all cases with better oncological outcome than any other techniques of radical cystectomy aimed at preservation of sexual function.
How long do patients with erectile dysfunction continue to use sildenafil citrate? Dropout rate from treatment course as outcome in real life
Authors: Sato Yoshikazu , Tanda Hitoshi , Kato Shuji , Onishi Shigeki , Nitta Toshikazu , Koroku Mikio
Published: May 2007

Objectives:  To study the dropout rate for use of sildenafil after initial prescription and during successful treatment to clarify their risk factors.

Methods:  A total of 1036 patients with erectile dysfunction who were treated with sildenafil were analyzed. The dropout rate during successful treatment and its risk factors were assessed using the Kaplan–Meier method and Cox proportional hazards model, respectively.

Results:  Thirty‐one percent (n = 322) of the patients dropped out after the initial prescription. The cumulative dropout rate during successful treatment at 3 years after starting usage was 48%. A lower International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF‐5) score before treatment was a significant risk factor for dropout during a successful treatment course (P < 0.029 by the Cox proportional hazards model).

Conclusions:  Approximately 30% and 50% of the patients dropped out of treatment after the first prescription and at 3‐year follow‐up, respectively. Adequate initial instruction and long‐term follow‐up are required even for patients with successful treatment.
Long‐term results of three different minimally invasive therapies for lower urinary tract symptoms due to benign prostatic hyperplasia: Comparison at a single institute
Authors: Ohigashi Takashi , Nakamura Kaoru , Nakashima Jun , Baba Shiro , Murai Masaru
Published: May 2007

Objective:  We analyzed the efficacy and durability of three different minimally invasive therapies (MIT) for lower urinary symptoms performed at a single institution based on a 5‐year prospective cohort study.

Methods:  The pre‐ and postoperative evaluation was made in 103 patients with the following three MIT options: (i) transurethral microwave thermotherapy (TUMT, n = 34); (ii) transurethral needle ablation (TUNA, n = 29); and (iii) transrectal high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU, n = 40).

Results:  All three treatments significantly improved the symptom scores up to 2 years after treatment. However, no statistical difference was observed in the efficacy between MIT. The percentage of men requiring the secondary treatment also showed no statistical differences. Cox's proportional hazards multivariate regression model revealed the baseline peak flow rate (Qmax) and total International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) but the types of MIT are independent significant factors for determining the long‐term clinical results of MIT.

Conclusion:  Our data showed no statistical differences in either the efficacy or in the durability between the three MIT. The baseline Qmax and total IPSS are the significant factors for determining the long‐term results of MIT.
Nicotine gates long‐term potentiation in the hippocampal CA1 region via the activation of α2* nicotinic ACh receptors
Authors: Nakauchi Sakura , Brennan Robert J. , Boulter Jim , Sumikawa Katumi
Published: May 2007

Hippocampal CA1 pyramidal cells receive two major excitatory synaptic inputs via the Schaffer collateral (SC) and temporoammonic (TA) pathways. Nicotine promotes induction of long‐term potentiation (LTP) in the SC path; however, it is not known whether the modulatory effect of nicotine on LTP induction is pathway‐specific. Here we show that nicotine suppresses LTP induction in the TA path. Interestingly, these opposing effects of nicotine were absent or greatly reduced in α2 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR)‐knockout (KO) mice, suggesting that an α2‐containing nAChR subtype mediates these effects. Optical imaging with a voltage‐sensitive dye revealed significantly stronger membrane depolarization in the presence of nicotine in the SC path, facilitating spread of excitatory neural activity along both the somatodendritic and the CA1 proximodistal axes. These effects of nicotine were also absent in α2 nAChR‐KO mice, suggesting that the enhanced optical signal is related to the nicotine‐induced facilitation of LTP induction. In contrast, in the TA path nicotine terminated depolarization more quickly and increased the delayed hyperpolarization in the termination zone of the TA path input. These inhibitory effects of nicotine were absent in α2 nAChR‐KO mice and, thus, most probably underlie the nicotine‐induced suppression of LTP induction. Our results suggest that nicotine influences the local balance between excitation and inhibition, gates LTP, and directs information flow through the hippocampal circuits via the activation of α2* nAChRs. These effects of nicotine may represent the cellular basis of nicotine‐mediated cognitive enhancement.
Regional and phenotype heterogeneity of cellular prion proteins in the human brain
Authors: Kuczius Thorsten , Koch Richard , Keyvani Kathy , Karch Helge , Grassi Jacques , Groschup Martin H.
Published: May 2007

Transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) are neurological disorders that include genetic, infectious and sporadic forms of human Creutzfeldt‐Jakob disease (CJD). The pathogenic agent is the prion protein that is composed of an abnormal isoform (PrPSc) of a host‐encoded protein (PrPC). Analysis of the relative amounts of PrPSc glycoforms has been used to discriminate between various agents involved in TSE. The distribution and efficiency of conversion to PrPSc can be influenced by differences in the expression of PrPC. However, little attention has been given so far to the banding patterns of PrPC. Using four different antibodies recognizing amino‐ and carboxyl‐terminal PrP sequences we analysed the glycoforms of PrPC in seven regions of the human brain using brains obtained from six subjects. For determination of the staining intensities, signals were quantified by densitometry and reproducible patterns were accomplished by many repeated immunoblot analyses. When amino‐terminal binding antibodies were used for detection, PrPC in the frontal neocortex, nucleus lentiformis, thalamus, hippocampus and cerebellum displayed a glycotype with high staining of the diglycosylated isoforms. This was different from patterns in the pons and medulla oblongata, which showed a high intensity of the nonglycosylated isoform, and PrPC proteins, approximately 27 kDa in size, exhibited high staining using the carboxyl‐terminal binding antibodies. This intense staining followed from an overlay of full‐length and truncated PrPC isoforms. Furthermore, we found marked differences in the expression of PrPC. Variations in the processing of PrPC may lead to interregional differences in the glycoform composition of PrPSc in human brains.
Resolving the biodiversity paradox
Authors: Clark James S. , Dietze Mike , Chakraborty Sukhendu , Agarwal Pankaj K. , Ibanez Ines , LaDeau Shannon , Wolosin Mike
Published: May 2007

The paradox of biodiversity involves three elements, (i) mathematical models predict that species must differ in specific ways in order to coexist as stable ecological communities, (ii) such differences are difficult to identify, yet (iii) there is widespread evidence of stability in natural communities. Debate has centred on two views. The first explanation involves tradeoffs along a small number of axes, including ‘colonization‐competition’, resource competition (light, water, nitrogen for plants, including the ‘successional niche’), and life history (e.g. high‐light growth vs. low‐light survival and few large vs. many small seeds). The second view is neutrality, which assumes that species differences do not contribute to dynamics. Clark et al. (2004) presented a third explanation, that coexistence is inherently high dimensional, but still depends on species differences. We demonstrate that neither traditional low‐dimensional tradeoffs nor neutrality can resolve the biodiversity paradox, in part by showing that they do not properly interpret stochasticity in statistical and in theoretical models. Unless sample sizes are small, traditional data modelling assures that species will appear different in a few dimensions, but those differences will rarely predict coexistence when parameter estimates are plugged into theoretical models. Contrary to standard interpretations, neutral models do not imply functional equivalence, but rather subsume species differences in stochastic terms. New hierarchical modelling techniques for inference reveal high‐dimensional differences among species that can be quantified with random individual and temporal effects (RITES), i.e. process‐level variation that results from many causes. We show that this variation is large, and that it stands in for species differences along unobserved dimensions that do contribute to diversity. High dimensional coexistence contrasts with the classical notions of tradeoffs along a few axes, which are often not found in data, and with ‘neutral models’, which mask, rather than eliminate, tradeoffs in stochastic terms. This mechanism can explain coexistence of species that would not occur with simple, low‐dimensional tradeoff scenarios.
Insularity and the determinants of lizard population density
Authors: Buckley Lauren B. , Jetz Walter
Published: May 2007

The relative effects of resource availability and partitioning on animal population density are unresolved yet central to ecology and conservation. Species‐depauperate islands offer an intriguing test case. Across 643 lizard populations from around the world, local abundances are one order of magnitude higher on islands than on mainlands, even when controlled for resource availability. On mainlands, predator and competitor richness only weakly correlate with lizard densities. On islands, sharp reductions in predator and competitor richness are the dominant drivers of lizard abundance. Our results demonstrate the dramatic effect insularity has on the interplay between biotic and abiotic control of animal abundances and the heightened sensitivity of island communities to species’ losses and gains.
Comparative genomics provides evidence for the 3‐hydroxypropionate autotrophic pathway in filamentous anoxygenic phototrophic bacteria and in hot spring microbial mats
Authors: Klatt Christian G. , Bryant Donald A. , Ward David M.
Published: May 2007

Stable carbon isotope signatures of diagnostic lipid biomarkers have suggested that Roseiflexus spp., the dominant filamentous anoxygenic phototrophic bacteria inhabiting microbial mats of alkaline siliceous hot springs, may be capable of fixing bicarbonate via the 3‐hydroxypropionate pathway, which has been characterized in their distant relative, Chloroflexus aurantiacus. The genomes of three filamentous anoxygenic phototrophic Chloroflexi isolates (Roseiflexus sp. RS‐1, Roseiflexus castenholzii and Chloroflexus aggregans), but not that of a non‐photosynthetic Chloroflexi isolate (Herpetosiphon aurantiacus), were found to contain open reading frames that show a high degree of sequence similarity to genes encoding enzymes in the C. aurantiacus pathway. Metagenomic DNA sequences from the microbial mats of alkaline siliceous hot springs also contain homologues of these genes that are highly similar to genes in both Roseiflexus spp. and Chloroflexus spp. Thus, Roseiflexus spp. appear to have the genetic capacity for carbon dioxide reduction via the 3‐hydroxypropionate pathway. This may contribute to heavier carbon isotopic signatures of the cell components of native Roseiflexus populations in mats compared with the signatures of cyanobacterial cell components, as a similar isotopic signature would be expected if Roseiflexus spp. were participating in photoheterotrophic uptake of cyanobacterial photosynthate produced by the reductive pentose phosphate cycle.
Combination of reversible male sterility and doubled haploid production by targeted inactivation of cytoplasmic glutamine synthetase in developing anthers and pollen
Authors: Ribarits Alexandra , Mamun A. N. K. , Li Shipeng , Resch Tatiana , Fiers Martijn , Heberle‐Bors Erwin , Liu Chun‐Ming , Touraev Alisher
Published: May 2007

Reversible male sterility and doubled haploid plant production are two valuable technologies in F1‐hybrid breeding. F1‐hybrids combine uniformity with high yield and improved agronomic traits, and provide self‐acting intellectual property protection. We have developed an F1‐hybrid seed technology based on the metabolic engineering of glutamine in developing tobacco anthers and pollen. Cytosolic glutamine synthetase (GS1) was inactivated in tobacco by introducing mutated tobacco GS genes fused to the tapetum‐specific TA29 and microspore‐specific NTM19 promoters. Pollen in primary transformants aborted close to the first pollen mitosis, resulting in male sterility. A non‐segregating population of homozygous doubled haploid male‐sterile plants was generated through microspore embryogenesis. Fertility restoration was achieved by spraying plants with glutamine, or by pollination with pollen matured in vitro in glutamine‐containing medium. The combination of reversible male sterility with doubled haploid production results in an innovative environmentally friendly breeding technology. Tapetum‐mediated sporophytic male sterility is of use in foliage crops, whereas microspore‐specific gametophytic male sterility can be applied to any field crop. Both types of sterility preclude the release of transgenic pollen into the environment.
SORTAL ANAPHORA RESOLUTION IN MEDLINE ABSTRACTS
Authors: Torii Manabu , Vijay‐Shanker K.
Published: May 2007

This paper reports our investigation of machine learning methods applied to anaphora resolution for biology texts, particularly paper abstracts. Our primary concern is the investigation of features and their combinations for effective anaphora resolution. In this paper, we focus on the resolution of demonstrative phrases and definite determiner phrases, the two most prevalent forms of anaphoric expressions that we find in biology research articles. Different resolution models are developed for demonstrative and definite determiner phrases. Our work shows that models may be optimized differently for each of the phrase types. Also, because a significant number of definite determiner phrases are not anaphoric, we induce a model to detect anaphoricity, i.e., a model that classifies phrases as either anaphoric or nonanaphoric. We propose several novel features that we call highlighting features, and consider their utility particularly for processing paper abstracts. The system using the highlighting features achieved accuracies of 78% and 71% for demonstrative phrases and definite determiner phrases, respectively. The use of the highlighting features reduced the error rate by about 10%.
MARKET‐BASED APPROACHES TO OPTIMIZATION
Authors: Karlsson Maria , Ygge Fredrik , Andersson Arne
Published: May 2007

We present a general discussion of what constitutes a market‐oriented approach to optimization. We demonstrate how a general framework can be used to conceptually improve two well‐known approaches from the literature, and discuss computational properties of the different approaches. We also show how existing theory could be adjusted to be directly applicable to the theory of the two approaches, thus proving special theory unnecessary. We want to bring out the pedagogical aspects of market mechanisms, to take full advantage of its potential.
580. FRITILLARIA KARELINII
Authors: Rix Martyn , Zarrei Mehdi
Published: May 2007

Summary Fritillaria karelinii Fisch. ex D.Don (Liliaceae) is illustrated. Its relationships with other species and the position of subgenus Rhinopetalum are discussed. Instructions for its cultivation are given.
589. GETHYUM ATROPURPUREUM
Authors: Fay Michael F. , Hall Tony
Published: May 2007

Summary The phylogenetic position and taxonomy of tribe Gilliesieae (Alliaceae) and Gethyum atropurpureum Phil. and the cultivation requirements of G. atropurpureum are discussed. A synonymy, description, colour plate and line drawing are given.
Separating Sustained From Transient Aspects of Cognitive Control During Thought Suppression
Authors: Mitchell Jason P. , Heatherton Todd F. , Kelley William M. , Wyland Carrie L. , Wegner Daniel M. , Macrae C. Neil
Published: May 2007

Cognitive theories of how people regulate their thoughts have suggested the involvement of two control processes that occur over different time courses. These cognitive accounts parallel recent neural models of executive control, which suggest that the prefrontal cortex (PFC) mediates sustained changes in the allocation of control processes, whereas the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) relays a transient need for additional control. Combining these cognitive and neural models of control, we used recently developed analysis techniques to distinguish transient from sustained changes in brain activation while subjects attempted to suppress an unwanted thought. Results were consistent with both models: Dorsolateral PFC demonstrated sustained increases in activation during attempts at thought suppression, whereas bilateral ACC demonstrated transient increases associated with occurrences of unwanted thoughts. These data support proposals regarding the different contributions made by the PFC and ACC to executive control and provide initial neuroimaging support for dual-process models of how individuals regulate their thoughts.
Discrimination of Possible and Impossible Objects in Infancy
Authors: Shuwairi Sarah M. , Albert Marc K. , Johnson Scott P.
Published: May 2007

Adults can use pictorial depth cues to infer three-dimensional structure in two-dimensional depictions of objects. The age at which infants respond to the same kinds of visual information has not been determined, and theories about the underlying developmental mechanisms remain controversial. In this study, we used a visual habituation/novelty-preference procedure to assess the ability of 4-month-old infants to discriminate between two-dimensional depictions of structurally possible and impossible objects. Results indicate that young infants are sensitive to junction structures and interposition cues associated with pictorial depth and can detect inconsistent relationships among these cues that render an object impossible. Our results provide important insights into the development of mechanisms for processing pictorial depth cues that allow adults to extract three-dimensional structure from pictures of objects.
Pain Tolerance Selectively Increased by a Sweet-Smelling Odor
Authors: Prescott John , Wilkie Jenell
Published: May 2007

The mechanism underlying reported analgesic effects of odors in humans is unclear, although odor hedonics has been implicated. We tested whether odors that are sweet smelling through prior association with tasted sweetness might influence pain by activating the same analgesic mechanisms as sweet tastes. Inhalation of a sweet-smelling odor during a cold-pressor test increased tolerance for pain compared with inhalation of pleasant and unpleasant low-sweetness odors and no odor. There were no significant differences in pain ratings among the odor conditions. These results suggest that smelled sweetness can produce a naturally occurring conditioned increase in pain tolerance.
Is Television Traumatic?: Dreams, Stress, and Media Exposure in the Aftermath of September 11, 2001
Authors: Propper Ruth E. , Stickgold Robert , Keeley Raeann , Christman Stephen D.
Published: May 2007

The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, were traumatic for people living throughout the United States. It has been suggested that people living far from the attacks experienced increased stress because of their exposure to the terrorist events via the media, particularly via television. Following a traumatic or stressful event, individuals may have dreams that reflect that experience. As part of a course on dreaming, individuals recorded their dreams both prior to and following the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. On September 12, these same individuals reported their activities and media exposure the previous day. Results revealed (a) changes in dream features following the attacks and (b) a strong relation between exposure to the events on television and changes in dream features after the attacks. Because of the study's within-subjects design, the results provide evidence for a direct association between television viewing and subsequent increases in stress and trauma.
Processing of Invisible Stimuli: Advantage of Upright Faces and Recognizable Words in Overcoming Interocular Suppression
Authors: Jiang Yi , Costello Patricia , He Sheng
Published: May 2007

Familiar and recognizable stimuli enjoy an advantage of predominance during binocular rivalry, and this advantage is usually attributed to their enhanced processing during the dominant phase. However, do familiar and recognizable stimuli have an advantage in breaking suppression? Test images were gradually introduced to one eye to compete against a standard high-contrast dynamic noise pattern presented to the other eye. Results showed that an upright face took less time than an upside-down face to gain dominance against the identical suppression noise. Results also showed that for Chinese readers, Chinese characters were faster to gain dominance than Hebrew words, whereas for Hebrew readers, the reverse was true. These results suggest that familiar and recognizable information, even when suppressed and invisible, is processed differently from unfamiliar information. Apparently, high-level information about visual form does contribute to the strength of a stimulus during its suppressed phase.
Maternal Emotion Socialization in Maltreating and Non‐maltreating Families: Implications for Children's Emotion Regulation
Authors: Shipman Kimberly L. , Schneider Renee , Fitzgerald Monica M. , Sims Chandler , Swisher Lisa , Edwards Anna
Published: May 2007

This study investigated the socialization of children's emotion regulation in physically maltreating and non‐maltreating mother–child dyads (N = 80 dyads). Mother–child dyads participated in the parent–child emotion interaction task (Shipman & Zeman, 1999) in which they talked about emotionally‐arousing situations. The PCEIT was coded for maternal validation and invalidation in response to children's emotion. Mothers were also interviewed about their approach to emotion socialization using the meta‐emotion interview‐parent version (Katz & Gottman, 1999). The meta‐emotion interview‐parent version was coded for maternal emotion coaching. Mothers also completed measures that assessed their child abuse potential and abuse‐related behaviors as well as children's emotion regulation. Findings indicated that maltreated children demonstrated fewer adaptive emotion regulation skills and more emotion dysregulation than non‐maltreated children. In addition, maltreating mothers engaged in less validation and emotion coaching and more invalidation in response to children's emotion than non‐maltreating mothers. Finally, maternal emotion socialization behaviors mediated the relation between maltreatment status and children's adaptive emotion regulation skills.
Other‐Consciousness and the Use of Animals as Illustrated in Medical Experiments
Authors: RUDNICK ABRAHAM
Published: May 2007

abstract  Ethicists such as Peter Singer argue that consciousness and self‐consciousness are the principal considerations in discussing the use of animals by humans, such as in medical experiments. This paper raises an additional consideration to factor into this ethical discussion. Ethics deal with the intentional impact of subjects on each other. This assumes a meta‐representational ability of subjects to represent states of mind of others, which may be termed other‐consciousness. The moral weight of other‐consciousness is manifest in the notion of responsibility, where humans lacking in other‐consciousness (such as individuals with autism) may not be held responsible for their harmful actions towards others. As responsibility implies not only duties but also rights and more generally high moral status, it follows that other‐consciousness grants high moral status, other things being equal — recognizing that other factors grant moral status too. Other‐consciousness also increases the capacity for suffering, both due to increased freedom (and consequently increased possibility of restriction of freedom) and to increased empathy (with suffering of others). Hence, the more an animal is other‐conscious, the more it deserves high moral status and the more it can suffer, other things being equal, and consequently, the less it should be used for human purposes. Further study is required to elucidate to what extent animals used by humans, such as in medical experiments, particularly primates and other highly evolved mammals, are other‐conscious.
Lysophospholipids regulate excitability and exocytosis in cultured bovine chromaffin cells
Authors: Pan Chien‐Yuan , Wu Adonis Z. , Chen Yit‐Tsong
Published: May 2007

Bioactive lysophospholipids (LPLs) are released by blood cells and can modulate many cellular activities such as angiogenesis and cell survival. In this study, the effects of sphingosine‐1‐phosphate (S1P) and lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) on excitability and exocytosis in bovine chromaffin cells were investigated using the whole‐cell configuration of the patch‐clamp. Voltage‐gated Ca2+current was inhibited by S1P and LPA pre‐treatment in a concentration‐dependent manner with IC50s of 0.46 and 0.79 μmol/L, respectively. Inhibition was mostly reversible upon washout and prevented by suramin, an inhibitor of G‐protein signaling. Na+current was inhibited by S1P, but not by LPA. However, recovery of Na+channels from inactivation was slowed by both LPLs. The outward K+current was also significantly reduced by both LPLs. Chromaffin cells fired repetitive action potentials in response to minimal injections of depolarizing current. Repetitive activity was dramatically reduced by LPLs. Consistent with the reduction in Ca2+current, exocytosis elicited by a train of depolarizations and the ensuing endocytosis were both inhibited by LPL pre‐treatments. These data demonstrate the interaction between immune and endocrine systems mediated by the inhibitory effects of LPLs on the excitability of adrenal chromaffin cells.