bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
One-dimensional surface plasmon resonance imaging system using wavelength interrogation
Authors: Fu Elain , Ramsey Stephen , Thariani Rahber , Yager Paul
Published: July 2006

We report on a one-dimensional surface plasmon resonance imaging system that can measure reflectivity over a range of incident wavelengths on multiple samples in parallel. The design and operation of the instrument are described and two methods of quantification are demonstrated.
Local investigation of the electronic properties of size-selected Au nanoparticles by scanning tunneling spectroscopy
Authors: Naitabdi A. , Ono L. K. , Roldan Cuenya B.
Published: July 2006

The relationship between the structural/morphological and electronic properties of size-selected gold nanoparticles was investigated using scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy. The nanoparticles were synthesized by inverse micelle encapsulation and were dip-coated on TiO2∕Ti(15nm)∕Si(111). Annealing in vacuum to 500°C resulted in the removal of the polymer and the formation of an ultrathin TiC support. Significant changes in the electronic local density of states (LDOS) of the nanoparticles, in particular, the onset of nonmetallic behavior, were observed with decreasing particle size. The nanoparticle-support interactions were studied and evidence for substrate-induced modifications in the LDOS of interfacial gold atoms is found.
Temporal and spectral nonspecularities in reflection at surface plasmon resonance
Authors: Yin Xiaobo , Hesselink Lambert , Chin Henry , Miller David A. B.
Published: July 2006

Nonspecular reflection of short pulses at surface plasmon resonance is analyzed and experimentally investigated. It is shown that the reflected optical pulse undergoes an extraordinary time delay as well as a central carrier frequency shift as the surface waves excited. The surface plasmon resonance is shown to enhance both nonspecular effects.
Formation mechanism and properties of CdSe quantum dots on ZnSe by low temperature epitaxy and in situ annealing
Authors: Mahapatra S. , Kiessling T. , Margapoti E. , Astakhov G. V. , Ossau W. , Worschech L. , Forchel A. , Brunner K.
Published: July 2006

The formation mechanism of CdSe quantum dots (QDs) on ZnSe by low temperature epitaxial growth of a CdSe layer and its subsequent in situ annealing at a higher temperature has been studied. By this method, a small postgrowth residue of mobile adatoms nucleates distinct, stable, three-dimensional islands atop preexisting two-dimensional (2D) precursors. High temperature annealing activates an up-climb of these adatoms onto the 2D precursors, which, however, predominantly climb down at the low growth temperature (TG). A growth interruption at TG, therefore, smoothens the as-grown CdSe layer, and when introduced for appropriate durations, enables reducing the QD areal density.
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-dimensional photonic crystals from Langmuir-Blodgett colloidal multilayers
Authors: Romanov S. G. , Bardosova M. , Pemble M. , Sotomayor Torres C. M.
Published: July 2006

Angle-resolved transmission spectra of multilayers of two-dimensional colloidal crystals prepared by the Langmuir-Blodgett technique have been studied. In contrast to the light diffraction in three-dimensional colloidal crystals, optical spectra revealed only very weak correlation between layers in the Langmuir-Blodgett multilayers. Two reasons for the observed transmission minima have been identified: the diffraction at a stack of layers and the scattering of the incident beam by guided modes of the two-dimensional colloidal crystals.
Two-dimensional nanoultrasonic imaging by using acoustic nanowaves
Authors: Lin Kung-Hsuan , Yu Cheng-Ta , Sun Shih-Ze , Chen Hung-Ping , Pan Chang-Chi , Chyi Jen-Inn , Huang Sheng-Wen , Li Pai-Chi , Sun Chi-Kuang
Published: July 2006

Two-dimensional ultrasonic imaging is demonstrated by using acoustic nanowaves. With a 14nm acoustic wavelength, both axial and transverse resolutions of a few tens of nanometers are thus achieved. This ultrasonic-based nondestructive technique not only images but also reconstructs the subsurface nanostructures including the depth positions of the buried interfaces. By demonstrating two-dimensional nanoultrasonic scans in depth and transverse (or z-x) axes, we show that acoustic nanowaves can be a promising tool for future subsurface three-dimensional noninvasive imaging with nanometer resolutions.
Fabrication of two-dimensional coupled photonic crystal resonator arrays by holographic lithography
Authors: Liang G. Q. , Mao W. D. , Pu Y. Y. , Zou H. , Wang H. Z. , Zeng Z. H.
Published: July 2006

We demonstrate the holographic design and fabrication of two-dimensional coupled photonic crystal resonator arrays, which are composed of hexagonal cavities tiled together in a triangular lattice. Band structure analysis reveals that the inverse structure of the fabricated template supports monopole defect mode in a photonic band gap of TM polarization. Our results show the practical importance of holographic lithography in the fabrication of photonic component arrays.
Velocity measurements inside the diffuse electric double layer in electro-osmotic flow
Authors: Sadr Reza , Yoda Minami , Gnanaprakasam Pradeep , Conlisk A. Terrence
Published: July 2006

Electro-osmotic flow (EOF), where ions in the electric double layer (EDL) next to the wall are driven by an electric field, is commonly used in microfluidics. Experimental observations of the velocity deficit in the EDL within 250nm of the wall in EOF of a monovalent aqueous electrolyte solution are reported and validated by analytical predictions. Unlike other techniques for probing the EDL in quiescent solutions, this nonintrusive time-resolved technique is suitable for quantifying changes in wall potential in flowing electrolyte solutions, e.g., due to surface adsorption, in a microfluidic device.
Automated Editing of Radio Interferometer Data with PIEFLAG
Authors: Middelberg Enno
Published: July 2006

Editing radio interferometer data, a process commonly known as ‘flagging’, can be laborious and time-consuming. One quickly tends to flag more data than actually required, sacrificing sensitivity and image fidelity in the process. I describe a program, PIEFLAG, which can analyze radio interferometer data to filter out measurements which are likely to be affected by interference. PIEFLAG uses two algorithms to allow for data sets which are either dominated by receiver noise or by source structure. Together, the algorithms detect essentially all affected data whilst the amount of data which is not affected by interference but falsely marked as such is kept to a minimum. The sections marked by PIEFLAG are very similar to what would be deemed affected by the observer in a visual inspection of the data. PIEFLAG displays its results concisely and allows the user to add and remove flags interactively. It is written in python, is easy to install and use, and has a variety of options to adjust its algorithms to a particular observing situation. I describe how PIEFLAG works and illustrate its effect using data from typical observations.
Beyond method: assessment and learning practices and values
Authors: James Mary , Pedder David
Published: July 2006

This article reports the findings of a survey of 558 teachers in England. It describes how conceptual and empirical insights from the literature informed the construction of questionnaire items to provide answers to questions about the way in which teachers value different classroom assessment practices and how congruent with these values they perceive their practices to be. Results from item, factor and cluster analyses reveal three underlying dimensions of assessment practice, sizeable values‐practice gaps on two dimensions that appear to be in tension (promoting learning autonomy and performance orientation), and differences among teachers which show that over half of this sample report that they are unable to sustain practices across all dimensions in line with their values. We conclude that teachers are demonstrably committed to the values (not just the methods) of assessment for learning within a moral framework that gives importance to the quality of students' learning, yet they experience and need to resolve contradictions in order to realize their values.
Johrei Family Healing: A Pilot Study
Authors: Canter P. H. , Brown L. B. , Greaves C. , Ernst E.
Published: July 2006

Johrei is a form of spiritual healing comprising “energy channelling” and light massage given either by a trained healer or, after some basic training, by anyone. This pilot trial aimed to identify any potential benefits of family‐based Johrei practice in childhood eczema and for general health and to establish the feasibility of a subsequent randomised controlled trial. Volunteer families of 3‐5 individuals, including at least one child with eczema were recruited to an uncontrolled pilot trial lasting 12 months. Parents were trained in Johrei healing and then practised at home with their family. Participants kept diaries and provided questionnaire data at baseline, 3,6 and 12 months. Eczema symptoms were scored at the same intervals. Scepticism about Johrei is presently an obstacle to recruitment and retention of a representative sample in a clinical trial, and to its potential use in general practice. The frequency and quality of practise at home by families may be insufficient to bring about the putative health benefits. Initial improvements in eczema symptoms and diary recorded illness, could not be separated from seasonal factors and other potential confounders. There were no improvements on other outcomes measuring general health and psychological wellbeing of family members.
Translocations of rocky habitat cichlid fishes to Nkhata Bay, Lake Malawi
Authors: Genner M. J. , Botha A. , Turner G. F.
Published: July 2006

Over the last 10 years, 12 rocky habitat ‘mbuna’ taxa have been translocated to Nkhata Bay on the north‐western shores of Lake Malawi from other regions of the lake. Given potential for competition and hybridization with indigenous taxa, further translocations should be avoided.
The putative monomeric G‐protein GBP1 is negatively associated with fumonisin B1 production in Fusarium verticillioides
Authors: SAGARAM UMA SHANKAR , BUTCHKO ROBERT A. E. , SHIM WON‐BO
Published: July 2006

Fumonisin B1 (FB1) is a mycotoxin produced by Fusarium verticillioides that contaminates maize. FB1 has been linked to a number of human and animal mycotoxicoses worldwide. Despite its significance, our understanding of the FB1 biosynthesis regulatory mechanisms is limited. Here, we describe F. verticillioides GBP1, encoding a monomeric G‐protein, and its role in FB1 biosynthesis. GBP1 was discovered as an expressed sequence tag (EST) up‐regulated in the F. verticillioides fcc1 mutant that showed reduced conidiation and no FB1 biosynthesis when grown on maize kernels. Sequence analysis showed that GBP1 encodes a putative 368‐amino‐acid protein with similarity to DRG and Obg subclasses of G‐proteins that are involved in development and stress responses. A GBP1 knockout mutant (Δgbp1) exhibited normal growth, but increased FB1 production (> 58%) compared with the wild‐type when grown on corn kernels. Complementation of Δgbp1 with the wild‐type GBP1 gene restored FB1 production levels to that of the wild‐type. Our data indicate that GBP1 is negatively associated with FB1 biosynthesis but not with conidiation in F. verticillioides. The deletion of GBP1 led to up‐regulation of key FB1 biosynthetic genes, FUM1 and FUM8, suggesting that the increased FB1 production in Δgbp1 is due to over‐expression of FUM genes.
Laser capture microdissection: a novel approach to microanalysis of plant–microbe interactions
Authors: RAMSAY KERRY , JONES MICHAEL G. K. , WANG ZHAOHUI
Published: July 2006

Gene expression studies are often carried out at the whole organism, organ or tissue levels. The different cell types present in most tissue exhibit different patterns of gene expression. This limits analyses because results obtained represent an average of the activities of the different cell types, and may lead to masking of genes of interest that are specifically expressed in a particular cell type. The recent development of laser capture microdissection (LCM) now enables target cells to be isolated from complex tissues and allows analysis of specific cell types that represent the in vivo state at the time of sample extraction. LCM has been applied to analyse plant tissues in a number of studies. This review illustrates the application of LCM in studies on gene expression profiling and proteomics, and also in research on plant–microbe interactions.
Spatial variation in demography and population growth rate: the importance of natal location
Authors: REID J. M. , BIGNAL E. M. , BIGNAL S. , McCRACKEN D. I. , MONAGHAN P.
Published: July 2006

Understanding the pattern and magnitude of spatial variation in demography and population growth rate (λ) is key to understanding the structure and dynamics of natural populations. However, such spatial variation is challenging to quantify. We use > 20 years of individual life‐history data to quantify small‐ and large‐scale spatial variation in demography and λ within a single population of red‐billed choughsPyrrhocorax pyrrhocoraxon Islay, Scotland. Critically, we demonstrate a major importance of an individual's natal rather than current location in driving observed spatial variation.

Breeding success (the number of offspring fledged per breeding attempt) varied among individual chough nest sites but did not vary on a larger spatial scale across Islay.

The proportion of fledglings observed to survive to recruiting age varied markedly among individual nest sites and also varied more widely across Islay. Spatial capture–mark–recapture models defined two discrete geographical regions where fledgling survival differed significantly: choughs fledged in region ‘BGE’ were more likely to survive than choughs fledged in region ‘CNSW’ as both subadults and adults.

The asymptotic λ attributable to breeding attempts in region BGE exceeded unity, and exceeded that attributable to breeding attempts in region CNSW. Relatively productive and unproductive regions therefore exist within this population.

Spatial variation in adult survival was better explained by an individual's natal region than the region where that individual settled to breed. Spatial variation in λ would consequently have remained undetected had survival been measured across resident breeders rather than across individuals fledged in each region. Furthermore, breeding success was a weak predictor of a nest site's estimated productivity of recruits.

We therefore describe marked spatial variation in demography and λ within a single population of a territorial vertebrate, mediated partly by long‐term links between an individual's natal location and its subsequent life‐history. Life‐long monitoring of individuals of known origin may therefore be necessary to identify accurately subpopulations of intrinsically high and low λ.
Comparative phylogeography of coastal limpets across a marine disjunction in New Zealand
Authors: GOLDSTIEN SHARYN J. , SCHIEL DAVID R. , GEMMELL NEIL J.
Published: July 2006

Cook Strait, which separates the North and South Island of New Zealand, has been a transient, but re‐occurring feature of the New Zealand land mass throughout the Pleistocene, maintaining its current width and depth for the past 5000 years. Historic land fragmentation coupled with the complex hydrography of the Greater Cook Strait region has created both biogeographic and phylogeographic disjunctions between the North and South Island in several marine species. Here we use mitochondrial cytochromebDNA sequences of three endemic intertidal limpets,Cellana ornata,Cellana radiansandCellana flavato assess intraspecific phylogeographic patterns across Cook Strait and to look for interspecific concordance of ecological and evolutionary processes among closely related taxa. We sequenced 328–359 bp in 85–321 individuals from 8–31 populations spanning the biogeographic range of the three species. Intraspecific phylogeographic analyses show moderate to strong genetic discontinuity among North and South Island populations due to allopatric fragmentation. This pattern was broadly concordant across the three species and the observed divergence among this group of intertidal limpets (0.3–2.0%) is similar to that of previously studied subtidal organisms. For each species, divergence time calculations suggest contemporary North and South Island lineages diverged from their respective most recent common ancestor approximately 200 000 to 300 000 years before present (bp), significantly earlier than previous estimates in other coastal marine taxa that arose from a miscalculation of divergence time.
Elevated body mass index and mortality risk in the elderly
Authors: Janssen I. , Mark A. E.
Published: July 2006

The purpose of this report was to perform a systematic review and meta‐analysis of the studies examining the impact of an elevated body mass index (BMI) on mortality risk in elderly (≥65 years) men and women. A variance‐based method of meta‐analysis was used to summarize the relationships from available studies. The summary relative risk of all‐cause mortality from the 26 analyses that included a risk estimate for a BMI within the overweight range was 1.00 (95% confidence intervals, 0.97–1.03). The summary relative risk of all‐cause mortality for the 28 analyses that included a risk estimate for a BMI within the obese range was 1.10 (1.06–1.13). These calculations indicate that a BMI in the overweight range is not associated with a significantly increased risk of mortality in the elderly, while a BMI in the moderately obese range is only associated with a modest increase in mortality risk.
Obesity and the heart: redefinition of the relationship
Authors: Iacobellis G. , Sharma A. M.
Published: July 2006

Although obesity is an important cardiovascular risk factor, growing evidence shows that obesity is not always related to an unfavourable cardio‐metabolic profile or poor cardiac outcomes. Recent studies show that excess fat even in the absence of comorbidities (uncomplicated obesity) can lead to adaptive cardiac morphological and functional changes. Uncomplicated obesity represents a well‐defined clinical entity that should be carefully considered and followed up. The existence of metabolically healthy subjects presenting a lower prevalence of cardiac modifications and risk factors strongly suggests that a redefinition of obesity based on regional fat distribution indices like waist‐to‐hip ratio instead of body mass index is warranted.
The impact of highly active antiretroviral therapy on the incidence and outcomes of AIDS‐defining cancers in Southern Alberta
Authors: Gingues S , Gill MJ
Published: July 2006

Objectives

To determine the impact of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) on the incidence and outcomes of Kaposi's sarcoma (KS), non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) and invasive cervical cancer/dysplasia in a well‐defined geographical HIV‐infected population between 1984 and 2005.

Methods

A clinic database search, chart review and verification with public health records were undertaken for all AIDS‐defining cancers diagnosed in Southern Alberta before and after the introduction of HAART.

Results

A total of 2137 patients with 9265 person‐years of HIV follow‐up care were reviewed. One hundred and forty‐three cases of KS, 64 cases of NHL and 11 cases of invasive cervical cancer/dysplasia were identified. KS and NHL together accounted for 15% of clinical presentations with an AIDS‐defining illness that led to the HIV diagnosis. Following the introduction of HAART, the reduced number of severely immunocompromised patients was associated with 92 and 84% reductions in new diagnoses of KS and NHL, respectively, which were seen mainly in clinic patients declining or failing HAART. Crude reductions of 94 and 65% in mortality from KS and NHL, respectively, were also seen. The prevalences of KS, NHL and invasive cervical cancer/dysplasia have recently stabilized at 3, 1 and 5% of the population, respectively.

Conclusions

The introduction of HAART has dramatically reduced the incidence of KS and NHL and improved survival from these cancers for most patients in HIV care. However, patients still present with KS and NHL leading to their HIV diagnosis.
CD4 percentage is an independent predictor of survival in patients starting antiretroviral therapy with absolute CD4 cell counts between 200 and 350 cells/μL
Authors: Moore DM , Hogg RS , Yip B , Craib K , Wood E , Montaner JSG
Published: July 2006

Objective

To determine the prognostic value of baseline CD4 percentage in terms of patient survival in comparison to absolute CD4 cell counts for HIV‐positive patients initiating highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART).

Methods

A population‐based cohort study of 1623 antiretroviral therapy‐naïve HIV‐positive individuals who initiated HAART between 1 August 1996 and 30 June 2002 was conducted. Cumulative mortality rates were estimated using Kaplan–Meier methods. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to model the effect of baseline CD4 strata and CD4 percentage strata and other prognostic variables on survival. A subgroup analysis was conducted on 417 AIDS‐free subjects with baseline CD4 counts between 200 and 350 cells/μL.

Results

In multivariate models, low CD4 percentages were associated with increased risk of death [CD4%<5, relative hazard (RH)=4.46; CD4% 5–14, RH=2.43; P<0.01 for both] when compared with those subjects with an initial CD4 fraction of 15% or greater, but had less predictive value than absolute CD4 counts. In subgroup analyses where absolute CD4 strata were not associated with mortality, a baseline CD4 fraction below 15% [RH=2.71; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.20–6.10], poor adherence to therapy and baseline viral load >100 000 HIV‐1 RNA copies/mL were associated with an increased risk of death.

Conclusion

CD4 percentages below 15% are independent predictors of mortality in AIDS‐free patients starting HAART, including those with CD4 counts between 200 and 350 cells/μL. CD4 percentage should be considered for inclusion in guidelines used to determine when to start therapy.
Mutational and bioinformatics analysis of proline‐ and glycine‐rich motifs in vesicular acetylcholine transporter
Authors: Chandrasekaran Ananda , Ojeda Ana M. , Kolmakova Natalia G. , Parsons Stanley M.
Published: July 2006

The vesicular acetylcholine transporter (VAChT) contains six conserved sequence motifs that are rich in proline and glycine. Because these residues can have special roles in the conformation of polypeptide backbone, the motifs might have special roles in conformational changes during transport. Using published bioinformatics insights, the amino acid sequences of the 12 putative, helical, transmembrane segments of wild‐type and mutant VAChTs were analyzed for propensity to form non‐α‐helical conformations and molecular notches. Many instances were found. In particular, high propensity for kinks and notches are robustly predicted for motifs D2, C and C′. Mutations in these motifs either increase or decrease Vmax for transport, but they rarely affect the equilibrium dissociation constants for ACh and the allosteric inhibitor, vesamicol. The near absence of equilibrium effects implies that the mutations do not alter the backbone conformation. In contrast, the Vmax effects demonstrate that the mutations alter the difficulty of a major conformational change in transport. Interestingly, mutation of an alanine to a glycine residue in motif C significantly increases the rates for reorientation across the membrane. These latter rates are deduced from the kinetics model of the transport cycle. This mutation is also predicted to produce a more flexible kink and tighter tandem notches than are present in wild‐type. For the full set of mutations, faster reorientation rates correlate with greater predicted propensity for kinks and notches. The results of the study argue that conserved motifs mediate conformational changes in the VAChT backbone during transport.
The hereditary spastic paraplegia protein spartin localises to mitochondria
Authors: Lu JianPing , Rashid Faiza , Byrne Paula C.
Published: July 2006

Hereditary spastic paraplegia describes a diverse group of disorders characterized by progressive paraparesis primarily affecting lower limbs. In Troyer syndrome, an autosomal recessive form of hereditary spastic paraplegia, patients have dysarthria, distal amyotrophy, developmental delay and short stature in addition to spastic paraparesis. It is caused by a frameshift mutation (1110delA) in SPG20 leading to premature truncation of spartin, a protein with no known function. The objective of this study was to determine the subcellular localization of spartin and investigate the effect of the 1110delA mutation. We observed cytoplasmic expression of spartin in all transfected cell lines. Using superimposed organelle markers or immunocytochemistry staining, we established that spartin localizes to mitochondria and that this localization is dependent on sequences in the C‐terminal region. Mutant spartin containing the 1110delA mutation has lost mitochondrial localization. Immunocytochemistry staining using anti‐alpha‐tubulin antibody provided evidence for partial co‐localization of spartin with microtubules. Analysis of fluorescence resonance energy transfer indicated that sequences in the amino terminal are important in mediating microtubule interaction. This study provides the first evidence of spartin subcellular localization and identifies it as the third mitochondrial protein implicated in hereditary spastic paraplegia. Our results suggest that Troyer syndrome may be due to defective microtubule‐mediated trafficking of mitochondria and/or mitochondrial dysfunction.
BMPs, FGF8 and Wnts regulate the differentiation of locus coeruleus noradrenergic neuronal precursors
Authors: Holm Pontus C. , Rodríguez Francisco J. , Kele Julianna , Castelo‐Branco Gonçalo , Kitajewski Jan , Arenas Ernest
Published: July 2006

In the present study, we investigated the involvement of rhombomere 1 patterning proteins in the regulation of the major noradrenergic centre of the brain, the locus coeruleus. Primary cultures of rat embryonic day 13.5 locus coeruleus were treated with fibroblast growth factor‐8, noggin and members of the bone morphogenetic and Wnt protein families. We show that bone morphogenetic proteins 2, 5 and 7 increase and noggin decreases the number of tyrosine hydroxylase‐positive locus coeruleus neurons. Interestingly, from all Wnts expressed in the first rhombomere by embryonic day 12.5 in the mice, we only found expression of wnt5a mRNA in the vicinity of the locus coeruleus. In agreement with this finding, from all Wnts studied in vitro, only Wnt5a increased the number of tyrosine hydroxylase‐positive neurons in locus coeruleus cultures. Finally, we also found that fibroblast growth factor‐8 increased the number of tyrosine hydroxylase‐positive cells in locus coeruleus cultures. Neither of the identified factors affected the survival of tyrosine hydroxylase‐positive locus coeruleus noradrenergic neurons or the proliferation of their progenitors or neurogenesis. Instead, our results suggest that these patterning signals of rhombomere 1 may work to promote the differentiation of noradrenergic progenitors at later stages of development.
Tau‐tubulin kinase 1 (TTBK1), a neuron‐specific tau kinase candidate, is involved in tau phosphorylation and aggregation
Authors: Sato Shinji , Cerny Ronald L. , Buescher James L. , Ikezu Tsuneya
Published: July 2006

Neurofibrillary tangles, which are major pathological hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease (AD), are composed of paired helical filaments (PHFs) containing hyperphosphorylated tau. Specific kinases regulate tau phosphorylation and are closely linked to the pathogenesis of AD. We have characterized a human tau‐tubulin kinase 1 (TTBK1) gene located on chromosome 6p21.1. TTBK1 is a serine/threonine/tyrosine kinase that is conserved among species and belongs to the casein kinase 1 superfamily. It is specifically expressed in the brain, especially in the cytoplasm of cortical and hippocampal neurons. TTBK1 phosphorylates tau proteins in both a Mg2+‐ and a Mn2+‐dependent manner. Phosphopeptide mapping and immunoblotting analysis confirmed a direct tau phosphorylation by TTBK1 at Ser198, Ser199, Ser202 and Ser422, which are also phosphorylated in PHFs. TTBK1 also induces tau aggregation in human neuronal cells in a dose‐dependent manner. We conclude that TTBK1 is a neuron‐specific dual kinase involved in tau phosphorylation at AD‐related sites and is also associated with tau aggregation.
New evidence for pre‐Columbian Muscovy Duck Cairina moschata from Ecuador
Authors: STAHL PETER W. , MUSE MICHAEL C. , DELGADO‐ESPINOZA FLORENCIO
Published: July 2006

The archaeological record of the large lowland neotropical Muscovy Duck Cairina moschata, one of the few native animals known to have been domesticated by pre‐Columbian peoples, is poorly known. Only a few specimens have been recovered in different cultural, temporal and depositional contexts from throughout the neotropics, and differentiating between wild and domesticated forms on the basis of osteological evidence has proved to be difficult. Archaeological specimens are mainly recorded from sites in western Panama and South America, including the western lowlands of Ecuador where two new locations are described and evaluated. It is suggested that at least some of these Ecuadorian specimens belong to domesticated forms, and that the cultural contexts in which they are found at archaeological sites suggest that prehispanic trade may have influenced their geographical distribution prior to the arrival of Europeans.
Species delimitation in the HwameiGarrulax canorus
Authors: LI SHOU‐HSIEN , LI JING‐WEN , HAN LIAN‐XIAN , YAO CHENG‐TE , SHI HAITAO , LEI FU‐MIN , YEN CHUNGWEI
Published: July 2006

Due to the male's elaborate songs, the HwameiGarrulax canorusis the most popular caged bird in the global Chinese community. Three allopatric Hwamei subspecies have been described:G. c. canorusin central and southern China and northern Indochina,G. c. owstonifrom Hainan andG. c. taewanusfrom Taiwan. We sequenced the entire mitochondrial cytochromebgene to reconstruct the molecular intraspecific phylogeny of the Hwamei. Molecular phylogenetic trees indicated that individuals of the three subspecies formed three monophyletic clades with high bootstrap support (> 95%). The basal clade wasG. c. taewanus. According to a conventional molecular clock (2% divergence per million years),G. c. taewanussplit from the other Hwamei taxa around 1.5 million years ago, andG. c. owstonidiverged fromG. c. canorusaround 0.6 million years ago. Considering the periodic connection between the Asian mainland and nearby continental islands during the glacial periods, habitat vicariance may have played a more important role than geographical vicariance in facilitating the differentiation of these taxa. Molecular diagnosability, population integrity, and concordance between the population ranges and the topology of the phylogenetic tree suggested that the Hwamei should be delimited into at least two full species:G. canorusandG. taewanus. Our work represents one of the first attempts to re‐evaluate the intraspecific systematics for an eastern Asian bird species using molecular data.
Nesting, overwintering, and conservation of the Crab Plover Dromas ardeola in central Eritrea
Authors: DE MARCHI G. , CHIOZZI G. , SEMERE D. , GALEOTTI P. , BONCOMPAGNI E. , FASOLA M.
Published: July 2006

We describe 30 new nesting sites of the Crab Plover Dromas ardeola, the main breeding grounds of which were largely unknown, and for which fewer than 30 colonies had been confirmed since 1970. Our survey included 90 islands, 53% of those existing, in the Dahlak and Howakil archipelagoes, and off the coast of central Eritrea. Colony size varied between 20 and 400 nests. We estimate the numbers of Crab Plovers breeding in central Eritrea at 5000–6000 pairs, i.e. about 50% of the known world breeding population. We describe two cases of probable replacement clutches, a feature unrecorded in this species. Black Rats Rattus rattus seem unable to open Crab Plover eggs, and do not seem to be a threat. Crab Plover colonies are traditionally exploited by local fishermen for collection of eggs, an activity that has increased recently. Our new records solve only partially the problem of the ‘missing’ colonies that are required to account for the world wintering population of 60 000–80 000 birds, and thus other breeding sites remain to be discovered, probably in southern Eritrea, Sudan and Somalia. We estimated that there are 4800–6500 Crab Plovers overwintering within central Eritrea, making it an important wintering ground for the species.
Predation on native birds in New Zealand beech forests: the role of functional relationships between Stoats Mustela erminea and rodents
Authors: WHITE PIRAN C. L. , KING CAROLYN M.
Published: July 2006

In the Holarctic, predation by mustelids on birds is often linked to population cycles of rodents (especially voles and lemmings) because birds may be buffered against mustelid predation at high rodent densities. By contrast, interguild relationships between introduced mustelids and rodents can have very different consequences for native birds in ecosystems where mustelids have been introduced. Here, we consider the interactions between Stoats Mustela erminea, feral House Mice Mus musculus and native birds in New Zealand beech Nothofagus spp. forests. We conclude that buffering to protect birds from Stoat predation normally fails in these systems, because peak populations of mice in these forests are low by Holarctic standards, and mice usually do not become sufficiently abundant to distract increased numbers of Stoats from preying on birds. However, temporary buffering is possible during rare episodes of extreme mouse abundance.
Resilience of Southwestern Amazon Forests to Anthropogenic Edge Effects
Authors: PHILLIPS OLIVER L. , ROSE SAM , MENDOZA ABEL MONTEAGUDO , VARGAS PERCY NÚÑEZ
Published: July 2006

Abstract:  Anthropogenic edge effects can compromise the conservation value of mature tropical forests. To date most edge‐effect research in Amazonia has concentrated on forests in relatively seasonal locations or with poor soils in the east of the basin. We present the first evaluation from the relatively richer soils of far western Amazonia on the extent to which mature forest biomass, diversity, and composition are affected by edges. In a southwestern Amazonian landscape we surveyed woody plant diversity, species composition, and biomass in 88 × 0.1 ha samples of unflooded forest that spanned a wide range in soil properties and included samples as close as 50 m and as distant as >10 km from anthropogenic edges. We applied Mantel tests, multiple regression on distance matrices, and other multivariate techniques to identify anthropogenic effects before and after accounting for soil factors and spatial autocorrelation. The distance to the nearest edge, access point, and the geographical center of the nearest community (“anthropogenic‐distance effects”) all had no detectable effect on tree biomass or species diversity. Anthropogenic‐distance effects on tree species composition were also below the limits of detection and were negligible in comparison with natural environmental and spatial factors. Analysis of the data set's capacity to detect anthropogenic effects confirmed that the forests were not severely affected by edges, although because our study had few plots within 100 m of forest edges, our confidence in patterns in the immediate vicinity of edges is limited. It therefore appears that the conservation value of most “edge” forests in this region has not yet been compromised substantially. We caution that because this is one case study it should not be overinterpreted, but one explanation for our findings may be that western Amazonian tree species are naturally faster growing and more disturbance adapted than those farther east.
The survival and function of baboon red blood cells, platelets, and plasma proteins: a review of the experience from 1972 to 2002 at the Naval Blood Research Laboratory, Boston, Massachusetts
Authors: Valeri C. Robert , Ragno Gina
Published: July 2006

The studies reported in this monograph were performed between 1972 and 2002 when it was possible to study healthy male and female baboons. A colony of baboons was maintained for 30 years without any adverse events observed in these baboons in the numerous studies that were performed. These protocols were reviewed and approved by the institutional animal care and use committees (IACUC) at the sites where the studies were performed and by the veterinarian services of the U.S. Navy’s Bureau of Medicine and Surgery, the Office of Naval Research, and the Department of Defense. The physiology of red blood cells (RBCs), platelets (PLTs), and plasma proteins in the baboon was investigated together with the viability and function of preserved RBCs, PLTs, and plasma proteins. These studies in the baboon could not have been performed in normal volunteers and patients. The data obtained have provided critical information to explain the clinical observations reported in normal volunteers and patients after transfusion of fresh and preserved blood products.

These studies were supported by the U.S. Navy’s Bureau of Medicine and Surgery and the Office of Naval Research. In addition, the support of the late Congressman J. Joseph Moakley from Massachusetts is acknowledged because without his support many of these studies could not have been performed.

The authors acknowledge the contributions of the numerous research collaborators identified in the 52 peer‐reviewed publications that cite other funding agencies that supported the research that is reported, the editorial assistance of Ms Cynthia Ann Valeri, and the assistance of Ms Deborah Tattersall who prepared the figures and tables reported in this publication.
Telomerase expression in sebaceous lesions of the skin
Authors: Olsen Stephen H. , Su Lyndon D. , Thomas Dafydd , Fullen Douglas R
Published: July 2006

Background:  Recent studies have demonstrated telomerase expression in ophthalmologic sebaceous carcinoma and have suggested possible diagnostic utility in distinguishing these neoplasms from sebaceous adenomas. The aim of this study was to evaluate telomerase expression via human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) immunohistochemical staining in a spectrum of sebaceous lesions of the skin.

Methods:  Paraffin‐embedded sections from sebaceous hyperplasia (11), nevus sebaceus (22), sebaceous adenoma (19), sebaceoma (11), and sebaceous carcinoma (14) were evaluated for intensity (0 to 3+) and pattern of anti‐hTERT staining.

Results:  Strong (2 to 3+) hTERT staining was observed in nucleoli of germinative cells and immature sebocytes in all sebaceous lesions, whereas mature sebocytes were negative. The distribution pattern paralleled features seen by routine haematoxylin and eosin‐stained sections.

Conclusions:  All hyperplastic and neoplastic sebaceous skin lesions expressed hTERT in this immunohistochemical study. The pattern of staining was predictive of the histologic pattern of the process but does not significantly add to our diagnostic armamentarium of sebaceous lesions.
Rab7 and Rab27a control two motor protein activities involved in melanosomal transport
Authors: Jordens Ingrid , Westbroek Wendy , Marsman Marije , Rocha Nuno , Mommaas Mieke , Huizing Marjan , Lambert Jo , Naeyaert Jean M. , Neefjes Jacques
Published: July 2006

Melanosomes are lysosome‐related organelles that synthesize, store and transport melanin. In epidermal melanocytes, melanosomes mature and are transferred to surrounding keratinocytes, which is essential for skin and coat colour. Mouse coat colour mutants reveal a critical role for the small GTPase Rab27a, which recruits myosin Va through its effector protein melanophilin/Slac2a. Here we have studied how two different Rab GTPases control two motor proteins during subsequent phases in transport of melanosomes. We show that the small GTPase Rab7 mainly associates with early and intermediate stage melanosomes and Rab27a to intermediate and mature melanosomes. Rab27a is found in an active state on mature melanosomes in the tips of the dendrites. The Rab7–Rab7‐interacting lysosomal protein–dynein pathway only controls early and intermediate stage melanosomes because the mature melanosomes lack Rab7 and associate with the actin network through Rab27a recruited MyoVa. Thus two Rab proteins regulate two different motor proteins, thereby controlling complementary phases in melanosome biogenesis: Rab7 controls microtubule‐mediated transport of early and Rab27a the subsequent actin‐dependent transport of mature melanosomes.
Role of transcription factor activator protein 1 (AP1) in epidermal growth factor‐mediated protection against apoptosis induced by a DNA‐damaging agent
Authors: Takeuchi Kenji , Motoda Yu‐ichiro , Ito Fumiaki
Published: July 2006

We investigated the survival signals of epidermal growth factor (EGF) in human gastric adenocarcinoma cell line TMK‐1. Treatment of TMK‐1 cells with adriamycin (ADR) caused apoptosis and apoptosis‐related reactions such as the release of cytochrome c from mitochondria and the activation of caspase 9. However, EGF treatment greatly reduced the ADR‐induced apoptosis as well as these reactions. We previously reported that hepatocyte growth factor transmitted protective signals against ADR‐induced apoptosis by causing activation of the phosphatidylinositol‐3′‐OH kinase (PtdIns3‐K)/Akt signaling pathway in human epithelial cell line MKN74 [Takeuchi K & Ito F (2004) J Biol Chem279, 892–900]. However, PtdIns3‐K/Akt signaling did not mediate the antiapoptotic action of EGF in TMK‐1 cells. EGF increased the expression of the Bcl‐XL protein, an antiapoptotic member of the Bcl‐2 family, but not that of other anti (Bcl‐2) or proapoptotic (Bad and Bax) protein members. Expression of the c‐Fos and c‐Jun, components of activator protein 1 (AP1), which are known to regulate bcl‐XL gene transcription, were increased in response to EGF. Pretreatment of the cells with PD98059, an inhibitor of MAP kinase kinase, inhibited the EGF‐induced c‐Fos and c‐Jun expression, AP1 DNA binding, Bcl‐XL expression, and the resistance against ADR‐induced apoptosis, suggesting that EGF transmitted the antiapoptotic signal in such a way that it activated AP1 via a MAP kinase signaling pathway. TMK‐1 cells stably transfected with TAM67, c‐Jun dominant‐negative mutant, did not display EGF‐induced Bcl‐XL expression or resistance against ADR‐induced apoptosis. These results indicate that AP1‐mediated upregulation of Bcl‐XL expression is critical for protection of TMK‐1 cells against ADR‐induced apoptosis.
Australia's Coastcare Program (1995–2002): its Purpose, Components and Outcomes
Authors: CLARKE BEVERLEY
Published: July 2006

Coastcare, Australia's community‐based coastal stewardship program, ran in its original form between 1995 and 2002 underpinned by the principles of integrated coastal management. Internationally, there are very few similar enterprises. Coastcare differed in fundamental ways from other Australian natural resource stewardship programs such as Landcare and Bushcare. However, there is very little published information about the program: its activities, characteristics or achievements. The results presented in this paper are based upon analysis of descriptive statistics from two key sources: the data set of the central coordinating agency for Coastcare (the national environment agency of that time), and a questionnaire administered to State level staff of the program. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the original program including a discussion of its practice, outcomes and limitations in terms of lack of formal evaluation. The paper expands the image of Coastcare beyond that of a grants program by explaining its broader roles in terms of education and partnership development between tiers of government and the community. Coastcare, in its original form, ceased to function in 2003 as a consequence of a remodeling of the funding strategy through the Commonwealth Government's Natural Heritage Trust. It is concluded that there is some urgency in broadcasting Coastcare's past function and fate because a new program has emerged from the old with little application of hindsight to guide better future performance.
An evaluation of dementia screening in the primary care setting
Authors: Harvan Jennifer R. , Cotter Valerie T.
Published: July 2006

Purpose: To evaluate current screening methods for dementia to determine the most accurate and efficient tools for use in primary care.

Data sources: Search included the following: Medline, CINAHL, BIOSIS, PsycINFO, ISI Web of Science, and Health & Psychosocial Instruments (1840–2005). The following search terms were used: screen, screening, tools, Mini Mental, MMSE, clock drawing, subjective memory, assessment, diagnosis, primary care, outpatient, community based, ambulatory care, dementia, cognitive impairment, and memory impairment. There was no limit to publication year. Articles excluded were those not published in English and those which used screening tools as part of diagnostic evaluation. The search revealed 581 relevant articles, which were narrowed to 20.

Conclusions: The Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) has high sensitivity and specificity in outpatients older than 65 years when age‐ and education‐specific cutoffs are used. The clock drawing test has lower sensitivity and specificity when used alone; however, in combination with the MMSE, its sensitivity is higher than that of the MMSE while specificity is slightly lower. Subjective memory complaints contribute diagnostic information; however, objective memory performance is a stronger predictor of future dementia. All measures are subject to influence by age, education, and other physical factors. The body of evidence regarding dementia screening methods has increased in recent years. The studies have been well conducted, of large sample size, in various geographic locations and populations, and by numerous investigators.

Implications for practice: Dementing illnesses will become a common presentation in primary care. Currently, routine screening is not conducted although acceptable instruments, such as the MMSE, are available. Additional research on routine screening in primary care to bolster the current evidence, use of nurses as evaluators of cognition, and utilization of specialists is needed.
Bipolar disorder: Etiology, diagnosis, and management
Authors: Miller Kimberly
Published: July 2006

Purpose: To review the epidemiology and disease characteristics of the bipolar disorder (BD) spectrum, render an accurate and timely diagnosis, and review treatment options through provider and patient collaboration.

Data sources: Comprehensive review of current scientific literature derived from electronic databases and professional medical references.

Conclusions: BD is a multifactorial disease that can interfere with cognition and behavior, causing a severe impact on patients and families. The variable course and often delayed diagnosis of this disorder can cause frustration for the patient and the healthcare provider. Because most undiagnosed patients with BD seek treatment within the primary care setting, it is imperative that clinicians become expert in the recognition of and intervention for this condition.

Implications for practice: The primary care provider is in a key position to render early diagnosis and treatment of BD. This disease should always be considered as part of the differential diagnosis for depression or anxiety. Nurse practitioners can be effective providers by using good nursing practices of communication, education, and advocacy for the patient and family. Knowledge of current diagnostic criteria and management is imperative for successful treatment of patients with BD.