bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Regional Variations in Biomass Production Using Satellite Image Analysis between 1992 and 2004
Authors: Kovàcs Ferenc
Published: May 2009

As a consequence of the increasing aridity experienced in Hungary in the past decades, any future spatial planning decisions should consider the threat of an arid environment. For identifying sensitive and endangered areas, suitable methods should be developed. These could help those responsible for decision making in providing quick and suitable actions in planning. Through the investigation of vegetation, regional scale variations in the landscape along with the responses of forests to climatic changes can be easily detected. Our primary aim was the evaluation of the natural water supply on the Danube Tisza Interfluve by studying the forests, meadows and pastures of the area in the summers of 1992 and 2004. We investigated with the help of remote sensing the short‐term response of vegetation to the altered environmental conditions. According to the spatial and temporal analyses of vegetation indices (NDVI) based on AVHRR and MODIS images, a considerable decrease in the activity of vegetation can be observed throughout the entire vegetation period. Due to the suspected climatic changes, 33% of the studied vegetation might be endangered.
A Framework for Intensional and Extensional Integration of Geographic Ontologies
Authors: Tomai Eleni , Prastacos Poulicos , Kavouras Marinos
Published: May 2009

This paper presents ongoing research in the field of extensional mappings between ontologies. Hitherto, the task of generating mappings between ontologies has focused on the intensional level of ontologies. The term intensional level herein, refers to the set of concepts that are included in an ontology. However, an ontology that has been created for a specific task or application needs to be populated with instances. These comprise the extensional level of an ontology. This particular level is generally neglected during the ontologies’ integration procedure. Thus, although methodologies of geographic ontologies integration, ranging from alignment to true integration, have, in the course of years, presented a solid ground for information exchange, little has been done in exploring the relationships between the data. In this context, this research strives to set a framework for extensional mappings between ontologies using Information Flow Theory by presenting a case study of interoperability between the thematic content of maps.
Immigration and the Economic Status of African‐American Men
Authors: Borjas George J. , Grogger Jeffrey , Hanson Gordon H.
Published: May 2009

The employment rate of black men, and particularly of low‐skilled black men, fell precipitously between 1960 and 2000. At the same time, their incarceration rate rose. This paper examines the relation between immigration and these trends in employment and incarceration. Using data from the 1960–2000 US censuses, we find that a 10% immigration‐induced increase in the supply of workers in a particular skill group reduced the black wage of that group by 2.5%, lowered the employment rate by 5.9 percentage points, and increased the incarceration rate by 1.3 percentage points.
Stabilization Theory and Policy: 50 Years after the Phillips Curve
Authors: TURNOVSKY STEPHEN J.
Published: May 2009

This paper discusses the impact of A. W. H. Phillips' seminal contributions to stabilization policy on subsequent developments in that field. We review the policy rules introduced by Phillips and show how these relate to the optimal rules emerging from linear–quadratic optimization problems. The consequences of rational expectations for the design of optimal stabilization policy are discussed. These challenges arose from the role of ‘forward‐looking’ variables, through issues such as the ‘Lucas Critique’ and the ‘time consistency’ of policy. The paper also discusses some of the contemporary aspects of stabilization policy, thereby highlighting the durability of Phillips' contributions.
Rising property ownership among women in Kathmandu, Nepal: an exploration of causes and consequences
Authors: Pandey Shanta
Published: May 2009

Pandey S. Rising property ownership among women in Kathmandu, Nepal: an exploration of causes and consequences

Int J Soc Welfare 2010: 19: 281–292 © 2009 The Author(s), Journal compilation © 2009 Blackwell Publishing Ltd and the International Journal of Social Welfare.

There is evidence that property ownership empowers women by increasing their self‐confidence, ability to contribute to decisions, control over their reproductive behaviour, ability to borrow and economic independence. Yet, women around the world own negligible assets. It is not surprising that assets ownership among Nepalese women is insignificant. In urban areas of Nepal, however, women's assets holdings have increased dramatically over the last four decades. The article analyses the institutions that resulted in increased asset holdings among women in Kathmandu, Nepal, and shows how strategic action by some men and women has given rise to new norms which favour property ownership among women. The findings are based on a sample of 193 women who legally own property (home or land) in Kathmandu, Nepal.
Berlin's Failed Bid to Host the 2000 Summer Olympic Games: Urban Development and the Improvement of Sports Facilities
Authors: ALBERTS HEIKE C.
Published: May 2009

Recently scholars have become interested in how the Olympic Games can create a positive legacy for the cities that host them. These benefits often include state‐of‐the‐art sports facilities, improved transportation infrastructure and beautification projects, such as the creation of parks. Stimulated by the Olympic Games, cities may embark on large‐scale urban development projects that may otherwise not be carried out or would be carried out on a much more limited scale. As cities now compete for hosting the Olympic Games, they often try to gain an advantage over other candidate cities by starting some of the projects before submitting their bid documents. Therefore, even an unsuccessful bid may arguably be beneficial. In this article, I describe Berlin's planning goals and overall concept for the 2000 Summer Olympics, as well as the individual projects that were planned. I then discuss why some of these projects have been realized despite the failed bid, while others were abandoned. I argue that the bid provided a stimulus for the improvement of some sports facilities in Berlin because these projects complemented wider planning goals, while other projects were eventually carried out due to other landmark events, such as the move of the federal government to the city.

Des études se sont intéressées récemment à la façon dont les Jeux olympiques peuvent laisser un héritage positif dans leurs villes d'accueil. Ces atouts comptent souvent des installations sportives ultramodernes, une amélioration des infrastructures de transport et des projets d'embellissement, telle la création de parcs. Sous l'impulsion des J.O., des villes se lancent parfois dans de vastes projets d'urbanisme qui, sinon, n'auraient pas existé ou auraient été réalisés à une échelle bien plus modeste. Désormais, étant donnée la compétition entre les villes candidates, celles‐ci tentent souvent de prendre le pas sur leurs concurrentes en démarrant certains projets avant même le dépôt de leur dossier. En conséquence, même une candidature rejetée peut, d'une certaine manière, être profitable. Cet article décrit les objectifs d'aménagement et le concept d'ensemble proposés par Berlin pour les J.O. d'été de 2000, ainsi que les différents projets prévus. Il analyse ensuite pourquoi certains de ces projets ont vu le jour malgré le refus du dossier, d'autres étant abandonnés. La candidature a procuré l'élan nécessaire à une amélioration d'installations sportives berlinoises, car ces projets venaient en complément d'objectifs d'aménagement plus larges; par ailleurs, d'autres projets ont finalement abouti dans le cadre d'autres grands événements, comme le transfert du gouvernement fédéral à Berlin.
Identification and determination butylmethoxydibenzoylmethane in the presence benzophenone‐3 and ethylhexylmethoxycinnamate in suncare preparation
Authors: Imamović B. , Šober M. , Bečić E.
Published: May 2009

Synopsis

The protection of sun radiation is a problem on global level for all living organisms on Earth. The need of people for the overexposure to the UV radiation led human population towards finding novel ways of protection of this kind of radiation, in form of cosmetic preparations applied on the skin. So far, the high values of protection factors of preparations and total block preparations with sun protection factor of 50+ were achieved. Physical and chemical filters which absorb radiation are constituents of these preparations. European Union has set regulations as which substances and in what amounts could be used as UV absorbers. American FDA (Food and Drug Administration) also gave its list of the most frequently used UV absorbers in the sunscreen products, as well as their declared concentrations. The most frequently used concentrations of UV filters in cosmetics is between 0.1% and 10%. Concentrations of UV filters in sunscreen products have to be monitored in order to ensure that they are not less from the declared levels, on which depends the efficacy and safety of the product.

Butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane (BMDM) is used as a UV‐A filter in suncare products. Optimized high performance liquid chromatography method for BMDM determination in the presence of other UV filters in suncare preparations is presented in this paper. Determination was performed on C8 reversed phase using UV detection at 357 nm and isocratic mobile phase of acetonitrile and 0.5% phosphoric acid (70 : 30 v/v). Proposed method has limit of detection of 0.058 μg mL−1, limit of quantification 0.193 μg mL−1 and linearity correlation coefficient of 0.9989. Commercially available products were analysed using the proposed method. All analysed samples complied with EU directives limit of BMDM content to no more than 5%.
Comparative analysis of solar radiation‐induced cellular damage between ex vivo porcine skin organ culture and in vitro reconstructed human epidermis
Authors: Bacqueville D. , Mavon A.
Published: May 2009

Synopsis

Reconstructed human epidermis models (RHE) constitute an innovative alternative to study phototoxicity and photoprotection in the cosmetic industry. However, little information is currently available concerning the harmful effects of solar‐simulated radiation (SSR) in these in vitro skin models. In this study, the phototoxic effects of a single acute SSR dose of 275 kJ m−2 were evaluated in a validated RHE model (from SkinEthic), and were compared with those obtained from an ex vivo skin organ culture recently developed from domestic pig ears. The RHE model was well differentiated in vitro and released a significant level of the cytosolic enzymes lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and extracellular signal‐related kinase 2 (ERK2) protein in the culture medium 24 h after SSR exposure. The SSR‐induced cytotoxicity was related to the formation of sunburn cells and the appearance of DNA damage (thymine dimer and DNA fragmentation) in keratinocytes. Interestingly, these DNA alterations were associated with the activation of the caspase‐3 protease, mainly in the basal layers of the epidermis. In addition, the RHE model responses were comparable with porcine skin following solar irradiation, and none of the above cellular responses was observed in non‐irradiated skin models. Finally, topical application of a broad‐spectrum UVB + A sunscreen formulation efficiently protected both the RHE and pig skin against the deleterious effects of SSR. Thus, both RHE and ex vivo pig skin organ culture models are complementary tools in the assessment of SSR‐induced DNA damage and apoptosis, and they may be used to evaluate the photoprotective capacity of cosmetic formulations.
First Genetic Insight into Libyan Tuaregs: A Maternal Perspective
Authors: Ottoni Claudio , Martínez‐Labarga Cristina , Loogväli Eva‐Liis , Pennarun Erwan , Achilli Alessandro , De Angelis Flavio , Trucchi Emiliano , Contini Irene , Biondi Gianfranco , Rickards Olga
Published: May 2009

The Tuaregs are a semi‐nomadic pastoralist people of northwest Africa. Their origins are still a matter of debate due to the scarcity of genetic and historical data. Here we report the first data on the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) genetic characterization of a Tuareg sample from Fezzan (Libyan Sahara). A total of 129 individuals from two villages in the Acacus region were genetically analysed. Both the hypervariable regions and the coding region of mtDNA were investigated. Phylogeographic investigation was carried out in order to reconstruct human migratory shifts in central Sahara, and to shed light on the origin of the Libyan Tuaregs. Our results clearly show low genetic diversity in the sample, possibly due to genetic drift and founder effect associated with the separation of Libyan Tuaregs from an ancestral population. Furthermore, the maternal genetic pool of the Libyan Tuaregs is characterized by a major „European” component shared with the Berbers that could be traced to the Iberian Peninsula, as well as a minor ‘south Saharan’ contribution possibly linked to both Eastern African and Near Eastern populations.
Towards a model of the expert practice educator – interpreting multi‐professional perspectives in the literature
Authors: King Linda M. , Jackson Marcus T. , Gallagher Ann , Wainwright Paul , Lindsay Jane
Published: May 2009

The health and social care professions all rely on the use of practice placements for a substantial element of their pre‐qualifying professional education, and these practice‐based professions have roles for existing practitioners to oversee the education and training of students when they are on practice placements. Practice educators play a vital role in the development of new practitioners and also in the development and perpetuation of professional values and standards. In this paper, we argue that the practice educator role is thus fundamentally an ethical function, requiring moral commitment from the practice educator but also playing a critical role in maintaining the ethical values of the profession.
Measuring moral judgement in physical therapy students from different cultures: a dilemma
Authors: Larin Hélène M. , Geddes E. Lynne , Eva Kevin W.
Published: May 2009

The purpose of this cross‐cultural study was to compare the level of moral judgement between two groups of students over the period of their professional physical therapy educational programmes as measured by the Defining Issues Test (DIT). Students from two entry‐level physical therapy programmes volunteered to participate. The DIT was completed at entry and exit of their respective programmes. DIT mean scores were compared using ancova controlling for age and grade point average. Thirty‐eight female, second baccalaureate degree students of diverse religious backgrounds, living in a Western culture and 13 female, first baccalaureate degree students of Islamic religious backgrounds living in an Arabic culture participated. At both entry and exit of their programmes, students from the Western group scored significantly higher on the DIT than the Arabic group (average: 51.1 and 29.9 respectively, P < 0.001). An initial score difference was anticipated given the different levels of education between the groups. Over the period of their studies, the DIT scores of the Western group increased significantly while the scores of the Arabic group remained constant. The DIT appears to not measure moral judgement uniformly across cultures. The moral dilemmas are based in Western values and offer limited insight into Arabic, Muslim moral judgement. With increasingly diverse student populations, physical therapy programmes may need to re‐examine the nature of moral judgement and adapt their curricula.
The rise of right‐wing populist Pim Fortuyn in the Netherlands: A discursive opportunity approach
Authors: KOOPMANS RUUD , MUIS JASPER
Published: May 2009

This article seeks to explain the dramatic rise of Pim Fortuyn's right‐wing populist party during the campaign for the parliamentary elections in the Netherlands in 2002. Fortuyn succeeded in attracting by far the most media attention of all political actors and his new party won 17 per cent of the votes. This article analyses how this new populist party managed to mobilise so much attention and support so suddenly and so rapidly. It uses the notion of ‘discursive opportunities’ and argues that the public reactions to Pim Fortuyn and his party played a decisive role in his ability to further diffuse his claims in the public sphere and achieve support among the Dutch electorate. The predictions of the effects of discursive opportunities are empirically investigated with longitudinal data from newspapers and opinion polls. To study the dynamics of competition over voter support and over space in the public debate during the election campaign, an ARIMA time‐series model is used as well as a negative binomial regression with lagged variables to account for the time‐series structure of the data. It is found that discursive opportunities have significantly affected the degree to which Fortuyn was successful both in the competition for voter support, and regarding his ability to express his claims in the media. Combining these two results, a dynamic feedback process is identified that can explain why a stable political situation suddenly spiralled out of equilibrium. Visibility and supportive reactions of others positively affected the opinion polls. Consonance significantly increased Fortuyn's claim‐making; dissonance undermined it. Furthermore, electoral support and negative claims on the issue of immigration and integration in the media by others enhanced Fortuyn's ability to further diffuse his viewpoints and to become the main political opinion‐maker during the turbulent election campaign of 2002.
Robustness of solvent/detergent treatment of plasma derivatives: a data collection from Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association member companies
Authors: Dichtelmüller Herbert O. , Biesert Lothar , Fabbrizzi Fabrizio , Gajardo Rodrigo , Gröner Albrecht , von Hoegen Ilka , Jorquera Juan I. , Kempf Christoph , Kreil Thomas R. , Pifat Dominique , Osheroff Wendy , Poelsler Gerhard
Published: May 2009

BACKGROUND: Solvent/detergent (S/D) treatment is an established virus inactivation technology that has been applied in the manufacture of medicinal products derived from human plasma for more than 20 years. Data on the inactivation of enveloped viruses by S/D treatment collected from seven Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association member companies demonstrate the robustness, reliability, and efficacy of this virus inactivation method.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: The results from 308 studies reflecting production conditions as well as technical variables significantly beyond the product release specification were evaluated for virus inactivation, comprising different combinations of solvent and detergent (tri(n‐butyl) phosphate [TNBP]/Tween 80, TNBP/Triton X‐100, TNBP/Na‐cholate) and different products (Factor [F]VIII, F IX, and intravenous and intramuscular immunoglobulins).

RESULTS: Neither product class, process temperature, protein concentration, nor pH value has a significant impact on virus inactivation. A variable that did appear to be critical was the concentration of solvent and detergent.

CONCLUSION: The data presented here demonstrate the robustness of virus inactivation by S/D treatment for a broad spectrum of enveloped test viruses and process variables. Our data substantiate the fact that no transmission of viruses such as human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, or of other enveloped viruses was reported for licensed plasma derivatives since the introduction of S/D treatment.
A signaling pathway contributing to platelet storage lesion development: targeting PI3‐kinase–dependent Rap1 activation slows storage‐induced platelet deterioration
Authors: Schubert Peter , Thon Jonathan N. , Walsh Geraldine M. , Chen Cindy H.I. , Moore Edwin D. , Devine Dana V. , Kast Juergen
Published: May 2009

BACKGROUND: The term platelet storage lesion (PSL) describes the structural and biochemical changes in platelets (PLTs) during storage. These are typified by alterations of morphologic features and PLT metabolism leading to reduced functionality and hence reduced viability for transfusion. While the manifestations of the storage lesion are well characterized, the biochemical pathways involved in the initiation of this process are unknown.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: A complementary proteomic approach has recently been applied to analyze changes in the PLT proteome during storage. By employing stringent proteomic criteria, 12 proteins were identified as significantly and consistently changing in relative concentration over a 7‐day storage period. Microscopy, Western blot analysis, flow cytometry, and PLT functionality analyses were used to unravel the involvement of a subset of these 12 proteins, which are connected through integrin signaling in one potential signaling pathway underlying storage lesion development.

RESULTS: Microscopic analysis revealed changes in localization of glycoprotein IIIa, Rap1, and talin during storage. Rap1 activation was observed to correlate with expression of the PLT activation marker CD62P. PLTs incubated for 7 days with the PI3‐kinase inhibitor LY294002 showed diminished Rap1 activation as well as a moderate reduction in integrin αIIbβ3 activation and release of α‐granules. Furthermore, this inhibitor seemed to improve PLT integrity and quality during storage as several in vitro probes showed a deceleration of PLT activation.

CONCLUSION: These results provide the first evidence for a signaling pathway mediating PSL in which PI3‐kinase–dependent Rap1 activation leads to integrin αIIbβ3 activation and PLT degranulation.
Comparison of ex vivo expansion culture conditions of mesenchymal stem cells for human cell therapy
Authors: Pérez‐Ilzarbe Maitane , Díez‐Campelo María , Aranda Pablo , Tabera Soraya , Lopez Tania , del Cañizo Consuelo , Merino Juana , Moreno Cristina , Andreu Enrique J. , Prósper Felipe , Pérez‐Simón José Antonio
Published: May 2009

BACKGROUND: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent stem cells. Based on their properties, several clinical trials have been designed to explore their potential therapeutic effect. Fetal calf serum (FCS, commonly used for in vitro expansion) is an undesirable source of xenogeneic antigens and bears the risk of transmitting contaminations. As an alternative for FCS, platelet lysate (PL) and both autologous and allogeneic human serum have been proposed. The aim of this study is to compare the culture of bone marrow (BM)‐derived MSCs in the presence of different serum supplements to determine the effect on cell growth, differentiation potential, and immunologic function.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: MSCs from BM of healthy volunteer donors were grown in the presence of 10% FCS supplemented with 1 ng/mL basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), 10% human serum supplemented with 1 ng/mL bFGF, 5% PL, and PL 5% supplemented with 1 ng/mL bFGF (PL plus bFGF).

RESULTS: MSCs that expanded in either medium showed a comparable morphology, phenotype, and proliferative and differentiation capacity. While the presence of MSCs in vitro significantly decreased CD3/CD28‐mediated T‐cell activation, this effect was significantly higher in MSCs cultured with human serum. Production of interferon‐γ was inhibited by cocultured media with MSCs while MSCs also induced a significant inhibition of cell cycle in T cells.

DISCUSSION: In conclusion, PL or autologous serum could offer an alternative to the use of FCS in MSC expansion for clinical use maintaining the same growing potential, phenotype, immunomodulatory properties, and differentiation potential.
Preliminary findings on the use of pulsatile machine reperfusion of a placenta to improve the cord blood collection yield including primitive hematopoietic stem cell fractions
Authors: Takebe Naoko , Gage Fred , Cheng Xiangfei , Lauw Marietya I. S.
Published: May 2009

BACKGROUND: Umbilical cord blood (CB) use is limited in most adults since the mean amount of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) collected is generally insufficient to engraft successfully. This study demonstrates for the first time the feasibility of pulsatile machine placenta reperfusion (PMPR), which significantly improves CB collection quantity and quality compared to standard collection methods.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: PMPR was performed on eight delivered placentas up to 39 hours after venipuncture‐based collection. PMPR was performed on average for 26 (20‐30) minutes, 17 hours after delivery (6.25‐39), using perfusate approved for donated organ reperfusion. Both PMPR and conventional collection‐derived CB cells were analyzed using immunophenotyping and colony assays.

RESULTS: The combination of PMPR and the conventional venipuncture method yielded a mean of 1.5‐, 4.9‐, 11‐, 7.5‐, 7.5‐, and 7.7‐fold increased number of total mononuclear, CD34+, CD34+/CD38−, CD133+, CD133+/CD34+, and CD133+/CD34− cells, respectively, compared to conventional venipuncture alone. CB cells obtained by PMPR alone generally demonstrated a significant increase in percentages of primitive HSC phenotype with equivalent cell viability between PMPR and venipuncture.

CONCLUSION: This article demonstrates for the first time that CB can be collected up to 39 hours after delivery with PMPR while maximizing CB collection including HSCs with primitive phenotypes.
C1‐inhibitor concentrate for individual replacement therapy in patients with severe hereditary angioedema refractory to danazol prophylaxis
Authors: Kreuz Wolfhart , Martinez‐Saguer Inmaculada , Aygören‐Pürsün Emel , Rusicke Eva , Heller Christine , Klingebiel Thomas
Published: May 2009

BACKGROUND: Hereditary angioedema (HAE) caused by functional deficiency of C1‐inhibitor (C1‐INH) is a rare disease that manifests with recurrent spontaneous nonallergic edema of the subcutaneous tissues and mucous membranes. In cases of laryngeal edema that are not treated immediately, HAE is associated with high mortality rates. Attenuated androgens (e.g., danazol) are usually administered for prophylaxis, but associated side effects may limit their use. This study investigated the efficacy, safety, and quality of life (QoL) associated with a pasteurized plasma‐derived C1‐inhibitor (pC1‐INH) concentrate for individual replacement therapy (IRT) in patients with severe HAE suffering from frequent attacks who were intolerant or not responding to danazol.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Twenty‐two patients with severe HAE and danazol incompatibility or insufficient efficacy of danazol were recruited. Intraindividual comparisons of efficacy, safety, and QoL with pC1‐INH concentrate IRT versus danazol treatment were made using retrospective and prospective patient data. Pharmacokinetic data were collected for 15 of the 22 patients.

RESULTS: In patients receiving pC1‐INH regularly, the median number of attacks per year decreased significantly compared to danazol prophylaxis (p < 0.001), and the 24 laryngeal edema episodes per year ceased. Superior efficacy of pC1‐INH was found for all QoL variables (e.g., general condition, social activities). No transmission of human immunodeficiency virus or hepatitis A, B, or C was observed.

CONCLUSION: In patients with severe HAE who experience severe side effects and/or lack of efficacy of danazol prophylaxis, very early substitution with pC1‐INH can completely abolish the incidence of potentially fatal laryngeal edema and can reduce the incidence of acute attacks.
Trafficking and Cell Migration
Authors: Ulrich Florian , Heisenberg Carl‐Philipp
Published: May 2009

The migration of single cells and epithelial sheets is of great importance for gastrulation and organ formation in developing embryos and, if misregulated, can have dire consequences e.g. during cancer metastasis. A keystone of cell migration is the regulation of adhesive contacts, which are dynamically assembled and disassembled via endocytosis. Here, we discuss some of the basic concepts about the function of endocytic trafficking during cell migration: transport of integrins from the cell rear to the leading edge in fibroblasts; confinement of signalling to the front of single cells by endocytic transport of growth factors; regulation of movement coherence in multicellular sheets by cadherin turnover; and shaping of extracellular chemokine gradients. Taken together, endocytosis enables migrating cells and tissues to dynamically modulate their adhesion and signalling, allowing them to efficiently migrate through their extracellular environment.
Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging of Interactions between Golgi Tethering Factors and Small GTPases in Plants
Authors: Osterrieder Anne , Carvalho Claudine M. , Latijnhouwers Maita , Johansen Jorunn Nergaard , Stubbs Christopher , Botchway Stanley , Hawes Chris
Published: May 2009

Peripheral tethering factors bind to small GTPases in order to obtain their correct location within the Golgi apparatus. Using fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) and fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) we visualized interactions between Arabidopsis homologues of tethering factors and small GTPases at the Golgi stacks in planta. Co‐expression of the coiled‐coil proteins AtGRIP and golgin candidate 5 (GC5) [TATA element modulatory factor (TMF)] and the putative post‐Golgi tethering factor AtVPS52 fused to green fluorescent protein (GFP) with mRFP (monomeric red fluorescent protein) fusions to the small GTPases AtRab‐H1b, AtRab‐H1c and AtARL1 resulted in reduced GFP lifetimes compared to the control proteins. Interestingly, we observed differences in GFP quenching between the different protein combinations as well as selective quenching of GFP‐AtVPS52‐labelled structures. The data presented here indicate that the FRET‐FLIM technique should prove invaluable in assessing protein interactions in living plant cells at the organelle level.
Heroin addiction in African Americans: a hypothesis‐driven association study
Authors: Levran O. , Londono D. , O'Hara K. , Randesi M. , Rotrosen J. , Casadonte P. , Linzy S. , Ott J. , Adelson M. , Kreek M. J.
Published: May 2009

Heroin addiction is a chronic complex disease with a substantial genetic contribution. This study was designed to identify gene variants associated with heroin addiction in African Americans. The emphasis was on genes involved in reward modulation, behavioral control, cognitive function, signal transduction and stress response. We have performed a case–control association analysis by screening with 1350 variants of 130 genes. The sample consisted of 202 former severe heroin addicts in methadone treatment and 167 healthy controls with no history of drug abuse. Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), haplotype and multi‐SNP genotype pattern analyses were performed. Seventeen SNPs showed point‐wise significant association with heroin addiction (nominal P< 0.01). These SNPs are from genes encoding several receptors: adrenergic (ADRA1A), arginine vasopressin (AVPR1A), cholinergic (CHRM2), dopamine (DRD1), GABA‐A (GABRB3), glutamate (GRIN2A) and serotonin (HTR3A) as well as alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH7), glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD1 and GAD2), the nucleoside transporter (SLC29A1) and diazepam‐binding inhibitor (DBI). The most significant result of the analyses was obtained for the GRIN2A haplotype G‐A‐T (rs4587976‐rs1071502‐rs1366076) with protective effect (Puncorrected = 9.6E‐ 05, Pcorrected = 0.058). This study corroborates several reported associations with alcohol and drug addiction as well as other related disorders and extends the list of variants that may affect the development of heroin addiction. Further studies will be necessary to replicate these associations and to elucidate the roles of these variants in drug addiction vulnerability.
The relationship between soil seed bank, above‐ground vegetation and disturbance intensity on old‐field successional permanent plots
Authors: Dölle Michaela , Schmidt Wolfgang
Published: May 2009

Questions: How does disturbance and successional age influence richness, size and composition of the soil seed bank? What is the potential contribution of the soil seed bank to the plant community composition on sites differing in their successional age or disturbance intensity?

Location: Experimental Botanical Garden of Göttingen University, central Germany.

Methods: Above‐ground vegetation and soil seed bank were studied on formerly arable fields in a 36‐year‐old permanent plot study with five disturbance intensities, ranging from yearly ploughing via mowing to long‐term uninterrupted succession. We compared species compositions, seed densities and functional features of the seed bank and above‐ground vegetation by using several methods in parallel.

Results: The seed bank was mainly composed of early successional species typical of strongly disturbed habitats. The difference between seed bank composition and above‐ground vegetation decreased with increasing disturbance intensity. The species of greatest quantitative importance in the seed bank was the non‐native forb Solidago canadensis.

Conclusions: The ability of a plant community to regenerate from the soil seed bank dramatically decreases with increasing time since abandonment (successional age) and with decreasing disturbance intensity. The present study underlines that plant species typical of grasslands and woodlands are limited by dispersal capacity, owing to low capacity for accumulation of seeds in the soil and the fact that most species do not build up persistent seed banks. Rare and target species were almost absent from the seed bank and will, after local elimination, depend on reintroduction for continuation of their presence.
The role of biotic interactions in altering tree seedling responses to an extreme climatic event
Authors: Saccone Patrick , Delzon Sylvain , Pagès Jean‐Philippe , Brun Jean‐Jacques , Michalet Richard
Published: May 2009

Questions: We addressed two poorly understood aspects of plant response to climate change: the impact of extreme climatic events and the mediating role of biotic interactions, through a study of heatwave effects on tree seedling survival rates and ability of the tree canopy to alter seedling responses.

Location: Mountain belt of the northern French Alps (Maurienne Valley).

Methods: The survival rates of two seedling cohorts from four tree species (Abies alba, Acer pseudoplatanus, Fraxinus excelsior and Picea abies) were measured during both the 2003 European heatwave and an average summer (2004) in deciduous broadleaf mountain forests. Seedlings were transplanted into two soil moisture conditions, and in experimental gaps or under the tree canopy.

Results: The heatwave strongly decreased tree seedling survival rates, while there was an important species‐specific mediating role of biotic interactions. In the wettest conditions, the tree canopy strongly increased survival of Abies, buffering the negative impact of the heatwave. In contrast, in the driest conditions, the tree canopy decreased survival of Picea and Acer, amplifying the negative impact of the heatwave. We found evidence of increasing soil water stress in the understorey of the driest community, but further studies including vapour pressure deficit measurements are needed to elucidate the driving mechanism of facilitation.

Conclusions: The high species specificity of the mediating role of biotic interactions and its variation along stress gradients leads to questions on our ability to predict large‐scale responses of species to climate changes.
Aspen succession and nitrogen loading: a case for epiphytic lichens as bioindicators in the Rocky Mountains, USA
Authors: Rogers Paul C. , Moore Kori D. , Ryel Ronald J.
Published: May 2009

Question: Can lichen communities be used to assess short‐ and long‐term factors affecting seral quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides) communities at the landscape scale?

Location: Bear River Range, within the Rocky Mountains, in northern Utah and southern Idaho, USA.

Method: Forty‐seven randomly selected mid‐elevation aspen stands were sampled for lichens and stand conditions. Plots were characterized according to tree species cover, basal area, stand age, bole scarring, tree damage, and presence of lichen species. We also recorded ammonia emissions with passive sensors at 25 urban and agricultural sites throughout an adjacent populated valley upwind of the forest stands. Nonmetric multidimensional scaling (NMS) ordination was used to evaluate an array of 20 variables suspected to influence lichen communities.

Results: In NMS, forest succession explained most variance in lichen composition and abundance, although atmospheric nitrogen from local agricultural and urban sources also significantly influenced the lichen communities. Abundance of nitrophilous lichen species decreased with distance from peak ammonia sources and the urban center in all aspen succession classes. One lichen, Phaeophyscia nigricans, was found to be an effective bioindicator of nitrogen loading.

Conclusions: Lichen communities in this landscape assessment of aspen forests showed clear responses to long‐term (stand succession) and short‐term (nitrogen deposition) influences. At the same time, several environmental factors (e.g. tree damage and scarring, distance to valley, topography, and stand age) had little influence on these same lichen communities. We recommend further use of epiphytic lichens as bioindicators of dynamic forest conditions.
Directional change in upland tundra plant communities 20‐30 years after seismic exploration in the Canadian low‐arctic
Authors: Kemper J. Todd , Macdonald S. Ellen
Published: May 2009

Question: What is the disturbance response of low‐arctic plant communities two to three decades after seismic exploration.

Location: Mackenzie River Delta, low‐arctic, northwestern Canada.

Methods: Plant communities in two upland tundra vegetation types were compared between winter seismic lines, created between 1970 and 1986, and adjacent “reference” tundra. Also, we used aerial surveys to quantify the total area impacted by visible linear features.

Results: Vascular plant cover was significantly higher, and lichen cover significantly lower, on seismic lines than in reference tundra. The increase in vascular plant cover was attributable to deciduous shrubs and graminoids. There were significant differences in plant community composition between seismic lines and reference tundra but no differences in species diversity or richness. Betula glandulosa and Arctagrostis latifolia were significant indicator species for seismic lines, while Saussurea angustifolia was a significant indicator for reference tundra. Based on the aerial surveys, these effects apply to at least 90% of seismic lines from two‐dimensional programs in these habitat types during the 1970s.

Conclusions: Vegetation composition and structure on 20‐30‐year‐old seismic lines differs from reference upland tundra despite no persistent differences in organic layer depth or depth to permafrost. We propose that this reflects: (1) successional redevelopment following changes in soil conditions and nutrient availability arising from the disturbance, and/or (2) disturbance‐initiated succession towards a community reflecting current climatic conditions.
Propagule input, transport and deposition in riparian environments: the importance of connectivity for diversity
Authors: Moggridge Helen L. , Gurnell Angela M. , Mountford J. Owen
Published: May 2009

Question: How important is hydrochory for dispersing propagules along riverbanks and to what extent do the quantity and species composition of deposited propagules reflect the riparian vegetation, represent “new” species that are not present in the vegetation, and vary with river flow and season?

Location: River Frome, Dorset, UK.

Methods: Over 13 consecutive 6‐week time periods, during which river water levels were continuously monitored, aerial inputs of propagules to riverbanks were sampled using funnels, hydrochorous propagule transport was sampled using drift nets, and deposition across the riverbanks was sampled using astroturf mats. A survey of the riparian vegetation enabled comparison between samples and the standing vegetation, so that “new” species could be identified. Differences in propagule abundance and diversity between sampling methods, time periods and locations were tested using Mann‐Whitney U‐tests and Kruskall‐Wallis ANOVA. DCA established contrasts in the floristic composition of all deposited propagules and “new” propagules between different sample types, time periods and locations.

Results: Aerial seed fall generated few propagules of low species richness. Hydrochory introduced large numbers of propagules and new species, resulting in high propagule deposition on the riverbank. The number and diversity of deposited propagules was governed by seasonal patterns of seed release and the hydrological regime. Propagule deposition was significantly greater on the most frequently inundated parts of the riverbank and autumn floods were particularly important for transporting “new” species to the study site and for remobilizing previously released propagules.

Conclusions: The abundance and diversity of propagules deposited along riverbanks is dependent upon high river flows, which facilitates connectivity between the channel and the riparian zone.
A qualitative study of trends in patient preferences for the management of the partially dentate state
Authors: Cronin Mary , Meaney Sarah , Jepson Nicholas JA , Allen P Finbarr
Published: May 2009

Objective:  To identify factors influencing attitudes of partially dentate adults towards dental treatment in Ireland.

Background:  People are retaining more teeth later in life than ever before. Management of partially dentate older adults will be a major requirement for the future and it is important to determine factors which may influence patients’ attitudes to care.

Methods:  Subjects: A purposive sample of 22 partially dentate patients was recruited; 12 women and 12 men, ranging in age from 45 to 75 years.

Data Collection: Semi‐structured individual interviews.

Results:  Dental patients have increasing expectations in relation to (i) a more sophisticated approach to the management of missing teeth and (ii) their right to actively participate in decision making regarding the management of their tooth loss. There is some evidence of a cohort effect with younger patients (45–64 years) having higher expectations.

Conclusions:  The evidence of a cohort effect within this study in relation to higher patient expectations indicates that both contemporary and future patients are likely to seek a service based on conservation and restoration of missing teeth by fixed prostheses.
Recognition and behaviour of caregiver managers related to oral care in the community
Authors: Chiba Yumi , Shimoyama Kasuhiro , Suzuki Yoriko
Published: May 2009

Objectives:  The purposes of this study were to investigate the knowledge, practice and educational background of caregiver managers regarding oral health, how they cope with visiting activities, and to explore related factors to develop an appropriate working strategy for them in the community.

Methods:  The subjects were 102 caregiver managers, who voluntarily participated in a seminar organised by the M city government. The collected data were analysed to assess the relationship between the related factors of oral health, career and age, and the correlation amongst items of action process concerning oral health using Spearman’s correlation coefficient and Fisher’ s exact test with spss 14.0 for Windows.

Results:  The results were as follows; (i) the mean length of careers of home‐care staff and caregiver managers was 3.6 ± 3.2 and 1.6 ± 1.6 years respectively, (ii) 90.2% recognised the importance of oral care and 92.2% were interested in oral care, although 32.4% hesitated to provide oral care, (iii) the career of caregiver managers was not significantly related to recognition of concrete objectives of oral care, soft debris and symptoms of periodontal disease, but they recognised the effectiveness of oral care in prevention of aspiration pneumonia, (iv) there was a total of 11 significantly correlated items of knowledge, recognition and practice of oral care and (v) there was a total of 10 significantly correlated items amongst factors of action process.

Conclusion:  Results suggested that knowledge of oral care was related not only to the career but also to age and revealed a basic gap in the range of abilities between the respondent caregiver managers. Some did perform appropriate oral care and carried out the necessary processes.
A longitudinal study of the relationship between diet intake and dental caries and periodontal disease in elderly Japanese subjects
Authors: Yoshihara Akihiro , Watanabe Reiko , Hanada Nobuhiro , Miyazaki Hideo
Published: May 2009

Objective:  We hypothesise that a difference in nutrition influences dental caries and periodontal disease. There are few previous studies especially longitudinal ones which have evaluated this hypothesis. This study investigated the relationship between nutritional intake, including milk and milk products (MMP), and dental disease, controlling for several confounding factors.

Material and methods:  A group of 600 subjects aged 70, randomly selected for this study, included approximately the same number of male and female subjects. The number of teeth on which root caries had occurred or where there was a periodontal event over a 6‐year period was measured. To determine quantitative food intake at baseline, a semi‐quantitative food frequency questionnaire was used during face‐to‐face interviews by dieticians. The stepwise method of multiple linear regression analysis was used to identify independent predictors of the number of root caries or periodontal disease events during the 6 years. Intake of the six food groups includes (i) fish, shellfish, meat, beans and eggs; (ii) MMP; (iii) dark green and yellow vegetables (DYV); (iv) other vegetables and fruits; (v) cereals, nuts and seeds, sugar and sweeteners, confectioneries (CNSC) and (vi) fats and oils. The alcohol, gender and anthropometric evaluation including measurements of weight and height for the calculation of body mass index, educational level, the number of family members and the number of remaining teeth were used as independent variables.

Results:  According to stepwise multiple regression analysis, two variables (quantity of MMP, and gender) were negatively associated with the number of root caries events during the 6 years. The standardised coefficients were −0.14 (p = 0.035) and −0.17 (p = 0.007) respectively. In addition, DYV were negatively, and three other variables (CNSC; alcohol; and the number of remaining teeth at baseline) were positively associated with the number of periodontal disease events during the 6 years. The standardised coefficients were −0.16 (p = 0.001), 0.11 (p = 0.042), 0.10 (p = 0.041) and 0.58 (p < 0.001) respectively.

Conclusion:  Our results suggest that the intake of MMP in this elderly population correlated with root caries events. In addition, intake of vegetables negatively correlated, and intake of ‘CNSC’ positively correlated with periodontal disease events.