bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a Rapid Method Using Oxalic Acid to Assess Resistance Among Hosta Cultivars to Petiole Rot Caused by Sclerotium rolfsii var. delphinii
Authors: Xu Zhihan , Gleason Mark L. , Mueller Daren S.
Published: February 2009

A rapid assay was developed to assess hosta cultivars for resistance to petiole rot caused by Sclerotium rolfsii var. delphinii. Leaves of greenhouse-grown hosta (Hosta kikutii and Hosta spp. cultivars Munchkin, Lemon Lime, Tardiflora, Pearl Lake, Zounds, Gold Drop, Halcyon, and Honeybells) were treated with 20 ml of oxalic acid (50 mM) on a cotton swab, then incubated at 100% relative humidity and 27°C. After 4 days, incidence of leaves with lesions was evaluated. Cultivars Munchkin, Lemon Lime, and Tardiflora had a relatively high incidence of leaves with lesions, whereas Gold Drop and Halcyon had much lower incidence. These results were generally consistent with those of field and greenhouse cultivar screening tests in which whole plants were inoculated with the pathogen and rated for disease incidence. Additional screening methods, including spray application of either oxalic acid or mycelial fragments of S. rolfsii var. delphinii, were not as repeatable or simple to conduct as the cotton swab assay. The cotton swab method showed potential to accelerate identification of highly resistant hosta cultivars, and thereby aid efforts to breed resistance to petiole rot.

Accepted for publication 1 December 2008. Published 28 January 2009.
Propagule Densities of Macrophomina phaseolina in Soybean Tissue and Soil as Affected by Tillage, Cover Crop, and Herbicide
Authors: Mengistu Alemu , Reddy Krishna N. , Zablotowicz Robert M. , Wrather Allen J.
Published: February 2009

All current commercial soybean cultivars are susceptible to charcoal rot, a disease caused by Macrophomina phaseolina. Efforts to manage this disease through non-genetic means have not been effective. However, the combined effects of tillage, cover crop and herbicide use, and their roles in the population dynamics of this fungus have not been fully investigated. A field experiment was conducted in 2002 through 2004 at Stoneville, MS, to determine the population dynamics of Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi) in soybean stem and root tissues at harvest and in soil at planting and harvest as affected by tillage, cover crop, and herbicide. The tillage treatments were conventional tillage (CT) and no-tillage (NT); the cover crops were hairy vetch, rye, and no cover crop; and the herbicide treatments were glyphosate- and non-glyphosate-based applications. Analysis of variance indicated that there was an effect due to tillage, cover crop, and tillage by year interaction on colony forming units (CFU) of M. phaseolina recovered from soybean tissue. Colony forming units in soybean tissue were greater under the CT than NT and were greater for hairy vetch and no cover crop than rye. Regardless of the cover crop system used, CFU in tissue was greater for CT in 2002 than in 2003 and 2004. Application of glyphosate did not affect the CFU in stem and root tissues or in the soil. The CFU from soil at harvest was significantly higher than at planting. The CFU in soil at planting and harvest was only affected by tillage and not by cover crop system. The CFU from stem and root tissues was greater than in soil suggesting that quantification of CFU in tissue may provide a better estimate of treatment effects at harvest. These results also suggest that charcoal rot may be better managed in the NT rather than in the CT system.

Accepted for publication 11 December 2008. Published 30 January 2009.
Common polymorphic transcript variation in human disease
Authors: Fraser Hunter B. , Xie Xiaohui
Published: February 2009

Most human genes are thought to express different transcript isoforms in different cell types; however, the full extent and functional consequences of polymorphic transcript variation (PTV), which differ between individuals within the same cell type, are unknown. Here we show that PTV is widespread in B-cells from two human populations. Tens of thousands of exons were found to be polymorphically expressed in a heritable fashion, and over 1000 of these showed strong correlations with single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotypes in cis. The SNPs associated with PTV display signs of having been subject to recent positive selection in humans, and they are also highly enriched for SNPs implicated by recent genome-wide association studies of four autoimmune diseases. From this disease-association overlap, we infer that PTV is the likely mechanism by which eight common polymorphisms contribute to disease risk. A catalog of PTV will be a valuable resource for interpreting results from future disease-association studies and understanding the spectrum of phenotypic differences among humans.
Online collection and analysis of X-ray fluorescence spectra on the macromolecular crystallography beamlines of the ESRF
Authors: Leonard Gordon A. , Solé V. Armando , Beteva Antonia , Gabadinho José , Guijarro Matias , McCarthy Joanne , Marrocchelli Dario , Nurizzo Didier , McSweeney Seán , Mueller-Dieckmann Christoph
Published: February 2009

X-ray fluorescence (XRF) measurements on solutions or crystals of biological macromolecules provide additional information that can be used in structure determination and/or refinement protocols. Here details are presented of an experimental setup, employed on all the ESRF Macromolecular Crystallography Group beamlines, that allows the online collection and qualitative analysis of XRF spectra. This experimental setup uses a highly attenuated beam and short exposures, meaning it is minimally destructive but retains high sensitivity.
Reversals in two dextral flounder species, Microstomus achne and Cleisthenes pinetorum (Pleuronectida; Teleostei), from Japan
Authors: Goto T.
Published: February 2009

Reversals are described in Microstomus achne (three specimens) and Cleisthenes pinetorum (one specimen) collected from the Pacific coast of northern Japan, being the first published records of reversals in these genera.
Embryo developmental events and the egg case of the Aleutian skate Bathyraja aleutica (Gilbert) and the Alaska skate Bathyraja parmifera (Bean)
Authors: Hoff G. R.
Published: February 2009

Embryo development events were correlated with egg‐case changes for the Aleutian skate Bathyraja aleutica and the Alaska skate Bathyraja parmifera. Yolk absorption underwent two phases: that of steady absorption during early development and that of rapid yolk absorption during the final development stages. Total length (LT) for 50% of the pre‐hatching embryos egg‐case jelly disappearance was 92·04 mm (range 81–102 mm) and 99·36 mm (range 81–100 mm) for B. aleutica and B. parmifera, respectively, allowing the inner chamber to open to seawater flow. The tail filament underwent three phases of growth: rapid elongation during early development (<100 mm embryo LT), stasis of tail filament length during the remainder of embryo development and rapid absorption soon after hatching. Complete tail filament development coincided with the disappearance of egg‐case jelly. Clasper buds first developed at embryos >70 mm LT for both species and the sex ratio was 1:1 well before hatching. Egg cases that were devoid of an ova or developing embryo were c. 5·0 and 6·5% of the egg cases examined for B. aleutica and B. parmifera, respectively. Measurements showed that egg cases containing only egg jelly were smaller in both width and length than those possessing an ova. Embryo stages were punctuated with distinct events that correlated with egg case changes controlling the internal environment of the developing embryo.
Metabolic depression and spleen and liver enlargement in juvenile Arctic charr Salvelinus alpinus exposed to chronic parasite infection
Authors: SeppÄnen E. , Kuukka H. , Voutilainen A. , Huuskonen H. , Peuhkuri N.
Published: February 2009

The present study on the connection between standard metabolic rate (RS) and chronic Diplostomum spp. infection resulted in a decrease in RS, and an enlargement in spleen and liver sizes in the infected juvenile Arctic charr Salvelinus alpinus compared to control fish. As splenic enlargement observed in infected fish was not due to condition‐related changes in the spleen, it could most probably be explained by increased leucocyte synthesis. The higher liver masses in infected S. alpinus may have been related to disorders in energetic function, which could have had major effects on biochemical regulation by the liver. The proposed metabolic syndrome with a possible reduction in insulin sensitivity in tissues results in ineffective glucose and lipid metabolism and thus it is suggested that chronic Diplostomum infection in S. alpinus might not impose direct energetic costs, but it may weaken the efficiency of energy metabolism and thus lead to lowered RS.
Hatch‐period‐dependent early growth and survival of Pacific herring Clupea pallasii in Miyako Bay, Japan
Authors: Chimura M. , Watanabe Y. , Okouchi H. , Shirafuji N. , Kawamura T.
Published: February 2009

Considerable interannual variation in the abundance of larval and juvenile Pacific herring Clupea pallasii was detected in Miyako Bay, on the Pacific coast of northern Japan; abundances were high in 2001 and 2003 and low in 2000 and 2002. Hatch dates and growth rates for larval and juvenile survivors were estimated through otolith analysis. Water temperature and food availability were monitored on the spawning and nursery grounds in the inner part of the bay. The number of spawning females caught in nets set around the spawning ground was recorded during each spawning season (January to May) in 2000–2003. No correlation was found between the number of spawning females and the abundance of larvae and juveniles on the spawning and nursery grounds. The hatch dates of surviving larvae and juveniles were concentrated at the end of the spawning season in 2001 and in the middle of the season in 2003. The larvae experienced relatively high prey concentrations during the first‐feeding period in 2001 but low concentrations in 2003. Survival of larvae during the first‐feeding period may be a function of prey concentration as well as water temperature. In 2003, low water temperature would reduce starvation mortality during the first‐feeding period. In contrast, unfavourable feeding conditions with higher temperatures during the first‐feeding period seemed to result in low larval survival in 2000 and 2002. The 2001 larvae grew faster than those in 2003 because of the late hatch dates and the higher ambient temperatures that resulted. Temperature might be a major factor controlling growth rates of C. pallasii larvae in Miyako Bay.
Habitat use and dispersal of post‐smolt sea troutSalmo truttain a Scottish sea loch system
Authors: Middlemas S. J. , Stewart D. C. , Mackay S. , Armstrong J. D.
Published: February 2009

Post‐smolt anadromous brown troutSalmo trutta, sea trout, from two Scottish west coast rivers, the Balgy and Shieldaig, flowing into adjacent sea lochs were tracked simultaneously using arrays of moored acoustic receivers to determine dispersal patterns and loss rates. Fish tended to stay close to their natal rivers for the first 14 day after entering the sea, during which time about half the fish were lost to the study. Although initially the overall pattern of dispersal was similar for individual fish from both rivers, towards the end of the study the groups had converged into one of the loch basins. There were also pronounced individual differences in habitat use with all those fish detected for >42 days exhibiting different patterns of habitat use. Loss rates were similar between the two rivers despite differences in the range of air‐breathing predators to which the fish were initially exposed. These findings suggest that any management of predators or other mortality agents should be targeted towards mouths of rivers during and immediately following smolt emigration.
Electronic tags reveal behaviour of captured and discarded fish
Authors: Neat F. C. , Breen M. , Cook R. M. , Gibb I. M. , Wright P. J.
Published: February 2009

Internally implanted data storage tags (DST) recording hydrostatic pressure (depth) and temperature in Atlantic cod Gadus morhua were used to track the behaviour of nine individuals during fishing operations. Gadus morhua showed identifiable and characteristic behavioural responses to different capture processes. In a unique observation, one fish survived being discarded and upon return to the seabed exhibited a cessation of activity comparable to observations on stressed fish under laboratory conditions.
The relationship of oocyte diameter and incubation temperature to incubation time in temperate freshwater fish species
Authors: Teletchea F. , Gardeur J.‐N. , Kamler E. , Fontaine P.
Published: February 2009

Based on the analysis of six egg variables and incubation temperature of 65 temperate freshwater fish species, the possible relationships between oocyte diameter, incubation time and incubation temperature were reassessed and compared to the results obtained from marine fishes. Most freshwater species have eggs (mean ±s.d. 2·19 ± 1·52 mm) larger than marine species, that are chiefly demersal and develop stuck to various substrata, such as plants or rocks. A strong negative relationship was found between incubation time (t, days) and incubation temperature (T, ° C): t = 186·23e−0·197T (r2= 0·87). A strong dependence of incubation time on oocyte diameter (Ø, mm) and incubation temperature was also found and was defined as: log10t= 3·002 + 0·599 log10Ø− 1·91 log10 (T + 2), which explained 92% of the variance of the data set. Five major groups of species were defined based on the principal component analysis (PCA) of four quantitative variables. There were two distinct groups of salmonids, displaying demersal and non‐adhesive eggs with a long incubation time at low temperature, the eggs of which required a high number of degree‐days. There was a large group of species possessing small, mostly demersal and adhesive eggs developing at high temperature during a short period of time, and requiring a low number of degree‐days. Between these two extremes, there was a fourth group displaying intermediate values and a fifth group including three species with large, adhesive and demersal eggs incubating at high temperatures during a short period of time. The burbot Lota lota displayed an unusual combination of variables compared to the remaining species in the data set.
Plasma membrane‐associated sialidase (NEU3) promotes formation of colonic aberrant crypt foci in azoxymethane‐treated transgenic mice
Authors: Shiozaki Kazuhiro , Yamaguchi Kazunori , Sato Ikuro , Miyagi Taeko
Published: February 2009

Human plasma membrane‐associated sialidase (NEU3) specifically hydrolyzes gangliosides, and it is up‐regulated in colon cancer and plays an essential role in the expression of malignant phenotypes. To clarify the role of NEU3 in tumorigenesis in vivo, we examined the susceptibility of NEU3 transgenic mice to induction of colonic aberrant crypt foci (ACF) by azoxymethane. Mice were injected with azoxymethane (i.p., 15 mg/kg/week) for 6 weeks, and 4 weeks later ACF had formed in the NEU3 transgenic mice significantly more than in the control wild‐type mice. Enhanced phosphorylation of epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor, Akt and ERK and up‐regulation of Bcl‐xL protein were observed in the transgenic colon mucosa, but no changes were found in cell proliferation, suggesting that the increased ACF formation is due to suppression of apoptosis. Immunohistological analysis with anti‐cleaved caspase 3 antibody showed an actual reduction in apoptotic cells in the transgenic mucosa at 6 h after the first azoxymethane injection, when apoptosis in the colonic crypt occurs. Consistent with our previous observations of human colon cancer, thin‐layer chromatography of the gangliosides from the transgenic colon mucosa revealed decreased GM3 and increased lactosylceramide as compared to those from the control mucosa, probably because of catalysis of gangliosides by NEU3. The results of this study provide the first evidence that NEU3 essentially increases azoxymethane‐induced ACF formation in colon mucosa by suppression of apoptosis, possibly via activation of the EGF signaling pathway, and thus indicate that up‐regulation of NEU3 is important to the promotion stage of colorectal carcinogenesis in vivo. (Cancer Sci 2009; 100: 588–594)
Clinically relevant radioresistant cells efficiently repair DNA double‐strand breaks induced by X‐rays
Authors: Kuwahara Yoshikazu , Li Li , Baba Taisuke , Nakagawa Hironobu , Shimura Tsutomu , Yamamoto Yoichiro , Ohkubo Yasuhito , Fukumoto Manabu
Published: February 2009

Radiotherapy is one of the major therapeutic modalities for eradicating malignant tumors. However, the existence of radioresistant cells remains one of the most critical obstacles in radiotherapy and radiochemotherapy. Standard radiotherapy for tumor treatment consists of approximately 2 Gy once a day, 5 days a week, over a period of 5–8 weeks. To understand the characteristics of radioresistant cells and to develop more effective radiotherapy, we established a novel radioresistant cell line, HepG2‐8960‐R with clinical relevance from parental HepG2 cells by long‐term fractionated exposure to 2 Gy of X‐rays. HepG2‐8960‐R cells continued to proliferate with daily exposure to 2 Gy X‐rays for more than 30 days, while all parental HepG2 cells ceased. After exposure to fractionated 2 Gy X‐rays, induction frequencies of micronuclei and remaining foci of γ‐H2AX in HepG2‐8960‐R were less than those in HepG2. Flow cytometric analysis revealed that the proportion of cells in S‐ and G2/M‐phase of the cell cycle was higher in HepG2‐8960‐R than in HepG2. These suggest that the response of clinically relevant radioresistant (CRR) cells to fractionated radiation is not merely an accumulated response to each fractionated radiation. This is the first report on the establishment of a CRR cell line from an isogenic parental cell line. (Cancer Sci 2009; 100: 747–752)
Effect of age, smoking and other lifestyle factors on urinary 7‐methylguanine and 8‐hydroxydeoxyguanosine
Authors: Tamae Kazuyoshi , Kawai Kazuaki , Yamasaki Sayumi , Kawanami Kiyoshi , Ikeda Masato , Takahashi Ken , Miyamoto Toshiaki , Kato Noritada , Kasai Hiroshi
Published: February 2009

Urinary 8‐hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8‐OH‐dG) and 7‐methylguanine (m7Gua) were measured by a column‐switching high performance liquid chromatography method as markers of oxidative and methylating DNA damage, respectively. We investigated the associations between urinary 8‐OH‐dG or m7Gua and various lifestyle and demographic factors, such as age and sex. The urinary 8‐OH‐dG excretion level was positively correlated with cigarette smoking, but inversely correlated with fruit consumption, physical activity and total energy consumed per day. A multiple regression analysis revealed that daily physical activity and healthy meal combinations decreased the urinary 8‐OH‐dG level, whereas alcohol consumption increased it. In terms of the urinary m7Gua measurement, cigarette smoking, age and consumption of meat, fish, egg, soybean, etc. were positively correlated with the urinary m7Gua level, whereas body weight, BMI, physical activity, and dietary index score, which indicates good nutritional balance, were negatively correlated with the amount of m7Gua. Based on a multiple regression analysis, cigarette smoking and age correlated with the m7Gua level, while high BMI and healthy meal combinations have significant reducing effects on m7Gua level. Therefore, the urinary m7Gua level is considered to be a useful marker of DNA methylation, not only from smoking, but also from aging and unhealthy dietary habits. (Cancer Sci 2009; 100: 715–721)
Climate variability and change over southern Africa: impacts and challenges
Authors: Sithole Alec , Murewi Cyril T. F.
Published: February 2009

In this paper, the influence of climate variability and change on the environment was studied over southern Africa using ground‐based and remotely sensed data. A time series analysis of rainfall and temperature anomalies indicated that there was a high rainfall and temperature variability in the region. The influence of global teleconnections on rainfall patterns over southern Africa showed that in some areas there was a spatial variation in their strength, increasing from west to east. Maps of NDVI, from 1982 to 2004, showed that changes in vegetation cover were more apparent during the dry season than during the wet season. The study also revealed that climate variability and change are linked to decreasing rainfall and hence, decreasing regional water resources and biodiversity and increasing environmental degradation. With the regional population expected increase, this depletion of resources poses the greatest regional environmental challenge to humankind.
Land cover change and land degradation in parts of the southwest coast of Nigeria
Authors: Fasona Mayowa , Omojola Ademola
Published: February 2009

Frequent alteration in land cover often leads to decreased stability of ecosystems which can also increase the vulnerability of rural communities to externalities of environmental change. This study carried out in parts of the coast of southwestern Nigeria utilized topographic base maps and two‐time Landsat TM imageries to assess the trend in land cover changes and ecosystems degradation for the three time periods 1965, 1986 and 2001. Remote sensing, geographic information systems and landscape pattern analysis were employed for data processing and analysis. The focus of the analysis was on land cover change, land degradation, and changes in landscape pattern resulting from interplay of natural and anthropogenic drivers.

The results show increased trend in human‐induced land cover change with concomitant severe negative impacts on ecosystems and livelihoods. About 98,000ha (30% of the area) was seriously degraded as at 2001. About 33,000ha (10%) was under permanent saline water inundation with about 21 communities already dislocated. Loss of fragile ecosystems including marshland (from 7.7% in 1965 to 1% in 2001) and mangrove (from 14.6% in 1965 to 3.1% in 2001) was intense, while over 300 ponds/small lakes which are important for the local fishing economy have disappeared. About eighteen communities were also dislocated by erosion in a section around the southeastern parts of the coastline. Landscape metrics generated, suggested increased ecosystems perturbation and landscape fragmentation. The paper also discussed the implications of these rapid changes for ecosystems stability, food security and sustainable rural livelihoods in the area.
Impact of land use changes on water resources and biodiversity of Lake Nakuru catchment basin, Kenya
Authors: Raini Jackson Akama
Published: February 2009

Lake Nakuru, Kenya, is one of a series of saline–alkaline closed basin lakes in the eastern arm of the Rift Valley. The lake has been variously described as ‘the lake of a million flamingos’ and ‘the Worlds greatest ornithological spectacle’ and is bedrock to the areas’ tourism. The lake was designated a bird sanctuary in 1960, a National Park in 1968, first rhino sanctuary in 1987, first Kenyan Ramsar site in 1990, an Important Bird Area in 1999 and a world‐class national park in 2005. Over the last 40 years, its basin has been heavily settled, extensively cultivated, urbanized and industrialized. Environmental problems include poor agricultural practices, human encroachment, pollution, wildlife mortality/morbidity, human/wildlife conflicts, poverty, ethnic tensions and land clashes and lack of adequate legal and policy framework. Approaches to conservation have been initiated against identified existing problems and constraints. These approaches are (i) organizational and institutional development; (ii) hot spots and pollution loads management and (iii) catchment and park management. Constraints have been identified as unclear demarcation of responsibilities, lack of budget, skilled staff and know‐how and lack of environmental standards and regulations. The impacts of ecosystem changes on people’s lives and livelihoods are discussed.
Scattered trees as modifiers of agricultural landscapes: the role of waddeessa (Cordia africana Lam.) trees in Bako area, Oromia, Ethiopia
Authors: Yadessa Abebe , Itanna Fisseha , Olsson Mats
Published: February 2009

Scattered trees in general and scattered waddeessa (Cordia africana Lam.) trees in particular are very common across the agricultural landscapes in Oromia, Ethiopia. A study on this scattered waddeessa trees commonly growing on farmers’ agricultural fields was conducted at Bako in western Oromia, Ethiopia with the objective of assessing their role in modifying the soil properties in the agricultural landscape. Soil samples from surface layers (0–10 cm) were taken at three concentric transects (0.5, 2 and 4 m) around the tree and compared with soil samples from the adjacent open areas (15 m distance from the tree), and then analysed following the standard procedures. Results showed that scattered waddeessa trees significantly modified the overall properties of the soil in the agricultural landscape of Bako area. But soil texture was not affected, indicating that it is more related to parent material than the tree influence. Hence, the soil patches observed under these waddeessa trees can be important local nutrient reserves that may influence the rural agricultural landscape. They also play an important role in generating local household income from the sale of products and conserving biodiversity by providing habitats and resources that are otherwise absent or scarce in agricultural landscape.
Impact of eucalyptus and pine growing on rural livelihood: the lesson from Bukoba area, north western Tanzania
Authors: Mwanukuzi Phillip K.
Published: February 2009

Sustainable resource management intends to allocate resources in such a way that unnecessary deterioration of biophysical and socio‐economical systems is avoided. In Bukoba Area where rainfalls are plenty, evergreen grasslands were expansive and forests were limited, eucalypts (eucalyptus spp.) and pines (pinus spp.) were grown on grasslands for preventing land degradation through deforestation and for providing additional source of income for rural poor. This study shows that in addition to detrimental consequence of eucalyptus and pine forests on soil resources, conversion of Bukoban grasslands to forests has negatively impacted livelihood of the rural poor. Growing eucalypts and pines on grasslands prevented a farming system that enabled integration of grasslands, cattle keeping and crop production. Consequently, the grasslands role of nutrients cycling was disrupted, food crop production reduced, home‐gardens productivity declined, majority deprived important livelihood asset and foreign income flow into the area reduced.
The multidimensional nature of biodiversity and social dynamics and implications for contemporary rural livelihoods in remote Kalahari settlements, Botswana
Authors: Sallu S. M. , Twyman C. , Thomas D. S. G.
Published: February 2009

Despite rapid socio‐economic development in Kalahari drylands, contemporary research suggests that biodiversity remains important as a component of the complex portfolio of livelihood strategies, as a real and perceived safety net in times of stress, and a key factor of cultural identity. The degree to which the spatially and temporally dynamic nature of biodiversity in drylands influences livelihoods is, however, little studied, particularly in socially complex contemporary rural settlements. Greater understanding in this area is required to allow better‐informed design and implementation of rural development, poverty alleviation and conservation initiatives. This is particularly true in the light of predicted increases in environmental dynamism with climate change. An interdisciplinary approach was used in two environmentally and socially distinct dryland settlements in Botswana, to investigate the extent to which the dynamic biodiverse setting influences contemporary rural livelihoods. Results illustrate that biodiversity, particularly its dynamics, is of critical contemporary importance to rural settlement livelihoods, particularly in times of inner settlement scarcity. Entitlements to biodiversity dynamics were, however, bound up by complex settlement‐specific social, economic and political factors. Unless such contextual within‐settlement dynamics are understood, the relative importance of biodiversity in rural development and poverty alleviation strategies in contemporary Kalahari drylands may be undermined.
Participatory land‐use planning and conservation in northern Tanzania rangelands
Authors: Kaswamila Abiud L. , Songorwa Alexander N.
Published: February 2009

In developing countries, participatory land‐use planning is seen as a panacea to mitigate land‐use conflicts and enhance land productivity. This assumption has not been thoroughly tested in wildlife corridors. Three villages were selected for this study. Several methods were used to provide indication of the performance of the plans against their stated objectives of mitigating conflicts and conserving wildlife corridors. Three hundred and fifty‐eight households and eight park and extension workers were interviewed. In addition, focus group discussion with the nomadic Barabeig, field assessment and review of land‐use plan/general management plan reports were carried out. Results reveal that land‐use plans failed to achieve their set objectives. For example, 75% of the households held this view. Major causes of failure were insufficient participation by stakeholders in the planning process, lack of robust, transparent and accountable implementation strategies, inadequacy of qualified staff and lack of ‘holistic approach’ to the planning process. Taking these findings into account, an improved buffer zone land‐use planning framework is suggested. For the framework to enhance both conservation and development and to enable policies and legislation, equitable benefit sharing and conservation education, initiation of compensation schemes for depredation caused by wild animals and intensification of patrols are required.
Land use/cover changes and their implications on rural livelihoods in the degraded environments of central Tanzania
Authors: Kangalawe Richard Y. M.
Published: February 2009

This paper examines the changes in land use/cover types in the degraded environment of central Tanzania over the last 45 years, and how such changes have influenced agricultural and livelihoods sustainability, especially in the Irangi Hills. Changes of land use/cover were measured through aerial photographs interpretations, while local perceptions and description of change were addressed through household interviews and field observations. The results of this study show that there have been variations over the years in terms of both the areas and spatial distribution of cultivated fields. The total land cultivated increased from 31% in the late 1970s to 35% in early 1990s, mainly because of agricultural expansion to sandy watercourses and former grazing areas. Water courses shrank by 55% between late 1970s and early 1990s providing new areas for cultivation. Over the last 45 years, the open and wooded grasslands, and tree‐cover types covered about 40% of the total land area, ranging from 29% in 1960 to 43–45% between late 1970s and early 1990s. Spatial and temporal distribution of the cultivated fields and other vegetation cover types were influenced by differences in the scale of land degradation, and the soil‐conservation initiatives that have been implemented. With increasing pressure on the land, however, sustaining livelihoods through agricultural production in the area remains a critical challenge.
Understanding future ecosystem changes in Lake Victoria basin using participatory local scenarios
Authors: Odada Eric O. , Ochola Washington O. , Olago Dan O.
Published: February 2009

Understanding future ecosystem changes is central to sustainable natural resource management especially when coupled with in‐depth understanding of impacts of drivers, such as governance, demographic, economic and climate variations and land use policy. This offers comprehensive information for sustainable ecosystem services provision. A foresight process of systematic and presumptive assessment of future state and ecosystem integrity of Lake Victoria basin, as participatory scenario building technique, is presented. Four scenarios have been illustrated as possible future states of the basin over the next twenty years. Using a scenario building model developed in Ventana Simulation (VENSIM®) platform, the paper presents a scenario methodology for tracking changes in lake basin ecosystem status. Plausible trends in land use change, changes in lake levels and contribution of fisheries are presented. This is part of an initial attempt to setup long‐term environmental policy planning strategies for Lake Victoria basin. The assumptions, driving forces, impacts and opportunities under each scenario depict major departure and convergence points for an integrated transboundary diagnosis and analysis of regional issues in the basin as well as strategic action planning for long‐term interventions. The findings have been presented in terms of temporal, spatial, biophysical and human well‐being dimensions. The attempts in this study can be embedded in a policy framework for basin management priority setting and may guide partnerships for environmental management.
Land‐use and resource conflicts in the Okavango Delta, Botswana
Authors: Darkoh Michael B. K. , Mbaiwa Joseph E.
Published: February 2009

This study assesses land‐use conflicts in the Okavango wetland ecosystem. A survey of the livelihood activities of a sample of four villages has been carried out and a stakeholder approach used to identify and analyse the key actors involved in resource competition and conflicts in the area. Traditional and emerging stakeholders were identified and found to be in conflict not only with each other but within themselves. Institutional policies on land use in the area are not properly harmonized, and there has been a top‐down approach to development planning and implementation of development programmes. As a result, land‐use conflicts have escalated in the area. The Okavango Delta Management Plan adopted in 2007 should integrate and harmonize all the land‐use policies, and land management in the area.
Wetlands, livelihoods and sustainability in Tanzania
Authors: Mwakaje A. G.
Published: February 2009

Wetlands in Tanzania are among the world’s most biologically productive ecosystems and are rich in species diversity. Wetlands support family livelihoods through crop production, grazing pastures and direct resource extractions. Ecologically, wetlands are instrumental in water storage, filtration, flood control and toxic retention and are also important habitat for biodiversity both flora and fauna. The last 30 years have witnessed rapid degradation of wetlands which threatens livelihoods; disturbs ecological settings and leads into unsustainable development. In this study, an attempt has been made to describe the livelihoods and sustainability issues of the Bahi Wetlands in Central Tanzania. This is a semi‐arid area and therefore the wetland plays a key role socio‐economically and environmentally. Data were collected from 200 households in Ngaiti and Kitalalo villages using structured and semi‐structured questionnaires. There were also focused groups interviews, key informants and Participatory Rural Appraisal methods. Findings show Bahi Wetlands to play a significant role in livelihoods, cultural and ecological functions. However, the sustainability of the wetlands is threatened by over‐cultivation, overgrazing and over‐extraction of natural resources directly. Livelihood diversifications through credit provision, improved extension services and strengthened local institutions, are recommended. Wetlands policy and laws should be developed and enforced.
Using a historical map as a baseline in a land‐cover change study of northeast Tanzania
Authors: Börjeson Lowe
Published: February 2009

Vegetation data in an early 20th century map from northern Tanzania are presented and discussed for its potential of expanding the analytical time‐frame in studies of land‐use and land‐cover change. The starting point is that much research on land‐use and land‐cover change suffers from a time‐frame bias, caused by limitations in remote sensing data. At the same time, the use of historical maps as a complementary data‐set is rather insignificant. Can information in historical maps be used to extend the baseline in land‐use and land‐cover change studies? The historical context of the vegetation data is evaluated, and as an illustration of its potential for interdisciplinary research on land‐cover and ecosystems change, a section of the map is juxtaposed with a recent pollen record specifically addressing the impact of a ‘large infrequent disturbance’ (LID) event at the end of the 19th century. It is concluded that the vegetation data in the map are not likely to be reflecting an extreme situation due to the LID event. Finally, the historical vegetation data were visually compared with a national 1995 land‐cover data set, illustrating the possibility of using the map data as a baseline in land‐cover change studies.
Poly I:C-induced expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 in intestinal epithelial cells
Authors: Omagari D , Mikami Y , Suguro H , Sunagawa K , Asano M , Sanuki E , Moro I , Komiyama K
Published: February 2009

Intercellular adhesion molecul-1 (ICAM-1) is a transmembrane glycoprotein belonging to the immunoglobulin superfamily of adhesion molecules and plays perdominant roles in recruitment and trafficking of leucocytes to sites of inflammation. ICAM-1 expression in intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) is enhanced by several stimuli, such as proinflammatory cytokines, bacterial infections or pathogen-associated molecular patterns. One of these stimuli, double-stranded RNA (dsRNA), is a by-product of viral replication and can be recognized by its cognate receptor Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR-3). In spite of expression of both TLR-3 and ICAM-1 in IECs, correlation between TLR-3-signalling and ICAM-1 expression has never been examined in IECs. In the present study, we investigated whether poly I:C, an analogue of dsRNA, can stimulate the expression of ICAM-1 in IEC line, HT-29. Poly I:C-stimulation up-regulated the expression of ICAM-1 mRNA by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Enhanced expression of ICAM-1 was confirmed in protein level by immunofluoresense cell staining and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay by measuring the released soluble ICAM-1 in culture supernatant. As the stimulation effect was reduced by pre-treatment of the cells with anti-TLR-3 antibody, poly I:C-binding signal was thought to be sensed by TLR-3 on the surface of HT-29. The results of luciferase assay and nuclear factor kappa-b (NF-kB) inhibitor treatment experiments indicated that the downstream signal was mainly transduced by transcription factor, NF-kB. All these results demonstrated the connection between TLR-3 signalling and ICAM-1 expression in HT-29 cells and indicated the importance of coordinated function of both innate and adaptive immunity against viral infections.
A TRP channel is expressed in Spodoptera littoralis antennae and is potentially involved in insect olfactory transduction
Authors: Chouquet B. , Debernard S. , Bozzolan F. , Solvar M. , Maïbèche‐Coisné M. , Lucas P.
Published: February 2009

The molecular characterization of post‐receptor actors involved in insect olfactory transduction has yet to be understood. We have investigated the presence of a Transient Receptor Potential (TRP) channel in the peripheral olfactory system of the moth Spodoptera littoralis. A cDNA encoding a Lepidopteran TRP channel (TRPγ) was identified by analysis of a male‐antennal EST database and subsequently cloned by RACE PCR. In adult males, the TRPγ transcript was detected in antennae, at the base of olfactory sensilla. Moreover, TRPγ was observed in antennae in both pupal and adult stages. This work is the first step in understanding the involvement of TRPγ in signalling pathways involved in the development and function of the insect olfactory system.
Clients with mental health problems who sexualize the nurse‐client encounter: the nursing discourse
Authors: Higgins Agnes , Barker Philip , Begley Cecily M.
Published: February 2009

Title.  Clients with mental health problems who sexualize the nurse‐client encounter: the nursing discourse.

Aim.  This paper is a report of a study of psychiatric nurses’ responses to clients who were sexualizing the nurse–client encounter.

Background.  Studies involving general nurses have reported incidents of ‘unwanted sexual attention/behaviour’ from clients. These behaviours have been identified, in the literature, as a form of sexual aggression and sexual harassment. Reported responses have included physically avoiding the person, ignoring verbal comments or adopting a no‐‘nonsense’ professional approach.

Methods.  A grounded theory study was conducted in 2005–2006 using tape‐recorded unstructured interviews with 27 psychiatric nurses working in an urban mental health service in the Republic of Ireland. Tapes were analyzed, with the assistance of Nud*ist 4, Word documents, mind maps and memoing.

Findings.  There were unwritten and unspoken professional expectations or norms that clients treated participants and nursing encounters in an asexual way. However, on occasions, clients transgressed these taken‐for‐granted norms and engaged in behaviour labelled ‘sexualizing the nurse–client encounter’. In contrast to previous studies, our interviewees did not use the language of sexual harassment, but used the discourses of ‘mad/bad’ and ‘inappropriate’ to codify the behaviour. The tendency to view behaviour through the psychiatric discourse of badness and boundary violation gave rise to nurses either ignoring the behaviour or responding by using ‘suppressive strategies’. Consequently, other possible lenses of understanding were pushed to the background.

Conclusion.  Only when educators and clinicians view clients’ sexual behaviours through alternative lenses of understanding will different actions and outcomes become possible and the rights of all, both nurses and clients, be respected.
Cervical cancer prevention by vaccination: nurses’ knowledge, attitudes and intentions
Authors: Duval Bernard , Gilca Vladimir , Boulianne Nicole , Pielak Karen , Halperin Beth , Simpson Mary Anne , Sauvageau Chantal , Ouakki Manale , Dube Eve , Lavoie France
Published: February 2009

Title. Cervical cancer prevention by vaccination: nurses’ knowledge, attitudes and intentions.

Aim. This paper is a report of a survey: (1) to document nurses’ knowledge, attitudes and information needs regarding human papillomavirus prevention and (2) to determine factors associated with their willingness to recommend human papillomavirus vaccines.

Background. Persistent infection with human papillomavirus has been causally linked to cervical cancer. Two human papillomavirus vaccines have recently been approved for use in more than 65 countries. Nurses’ level of support for the prevention of human papillomavirus related diseases by vaccination has not been researched.

Methods. A survey was conducted in 2007. Self‐administered questionnaires were mailed to 1799 randomly selected nurses. Descriptive statistics were generated for all variables. Multivariable logistic regression models were estimated to determine variables associated with the willingness to recommend human papillomavirus vaccines.

Results. A total of 946 questionnaires were analyzed and showed that: 97% of nurses perceived routinely recommended vaccines as very useful; 93% would support human papillomavirus vaccination if it is publicly funded; 85% would recommend human papillomavirus vaccines to their patients; 33%, 46% and 61% expect the vaccination to permit screening to begin later in life, reduction of the frequency of screening, and reduction of the number of postscreening interventions, respectively. Respondents’ knowledge score was 3·8 out of 7. Several modifiable factors, including knowledge, perceived self‐efficacy, and societal and colleagues support were associated with willingness to recommend vaccines.

Conclusion. Most nurses’ support human papillomavirus vaccination, but their active involvement should not be taken for granted. Targeted educational efforts are needed to ensure nurses’ involvement in the prevention of human papillomavirus‐related diseases.
Rethinking concept analysis
Authors: Risjord Mark
Published: February 2009

Title.  Rethinking concept analysis.

Aim.  This study reports ways to strengthen the epistemological foundation of concept analysis and to clarify its ontology.

Background.  Nursing methods of concept analysis were derived from philosophy. In applying the philosophical ideas to nursing, changes were made that weakened the method. As a result, concept analyses often do not produce meaningful results.

Data sources.  Essays in nursing journals that critique or develop methods of concept analysis and philosophical writing about language.

Findings.  Many methods of concept analysis presuppose that the meaning of a concept depends on context. This ‘contextualism’ has epistemological and ontological consequences. Epistemologically, justifying a proposed set of defining attributes requires showing that the attributes explain the contextual pattern of use. Ontologically, concepts change their meaning as the theoretical contexts change. This means that concepts can only be developed as part of larger theories. Theory development requires a commitment to moderate realism and so, concept development also presupposes moderate realism.

Conclusion.  There are two forms of concept analysis: theoretical and colloquial. Each has its own purpose and evidence. The two forms can be used together and some theoretical developments will require both. Concept analysis must be based either on scientific literature or on colloquial usage. Concept analysis is not prior to theory development, but it must be part of theory development. It makes the meaning of a concept explicit, so that it can be part of testable and practical nursing theories.
Nurse practitioners’ perceptions and participation in pharmaceutical marketing
Authors: Crigger Nancy , Barnes Kristen , Junko Autumn , Rahal Sarah , Sheek Casey
Published: February 2009

Title. Nurse practitioners’ perceptions and participation in pharmaceutical marketing.

Aim. This paper reports on a study conducted to describe family nurse practitioners’ perceptions towards and participation in pharmaceutical marketing and to explore the relationships among related variables.

Background. The pharmaceutical industry’s intense global marketing strategies have resulted in widespread concern in healthcare professionals and professional groups, sectors of the public in many countries, and in the World Health Organization. Research on healthcare providers’ participation in pharmaceutical marketing indicates that these relationships are conflicts of interests and compromise healthcare providers’ prescribing practices and trust. Nursing, as a discipline, appears to be slow to address the impact of pharmaceutical marketing on nursing practice.

Method. Questionnaires about perceptions and participation in pharmaceutical marketing were completed by a random sample of 84 licensed family nurse practitioners in the United States of America in 2007.

Findings. Family nurse practitioners viewed pharmaceutical company marketing uncritically as educational and beneficial. They also perceived other providers but not themselves as influenced by pharmaceutical marketing. The findings supported those found in previous research with nurses and physicians.

Conclusion. Lack of education, participation in marketing and psychological and social responses may impede family nurse practitioners’ ability to respond critically and appropriately to marketing strategies and the conflict of interest it creates.