bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systematic studies on the Pompilidae occurring in Japan: Genus Agenioideus Ashmead (Hymenoptera), supplement
Authors: SHIMIZU Akira , WAHIS Raymond
Published: September 2009

Two species of the pompilid genus Agenioideus occurring in Japan are described: A. (Agenioideus) kokyo and A. (A.) cinctellus. The former is new to science and the latter is recorded from Japan and Taiwan for the first time. A brief summary of the biology of A. cinctellus, distinguishing characters between A. (A.) ishikawai Shimizu, 1989 and its relatives, and a key to all Japanese species of this genus are presented. Psammochares cinctellus f. rufa Haupt, 1938 and A. (A.) pacificus Lelej, 1994 are newly synonymized with A. cinctellus. A new combination is proposed: A. (A.) maculipes (Smith, 1870) (=Pompilus maculipes Smith), which is found in Southeast Asia to South Asia. Agenioideus ishikawai is newly recorded from Korea and China.
Discovery of three new species of Drosophila obscura species group (Diptera: Drosophilidae) from Mount Kinabalu in Borneo
Authors: GAO Jian‐jun , TANABE Shin‐ichi , TODA Masanori J.
Published: September 2009

We describe three new species of the Drosophila obscura species group, D. hypercephala, D. hideakii and D. quadrangula Gao & Toda, spp. nov., all discovered from high altitudes (>1500 m) on Mt Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia. These are the southernmost distribution records of the D. obscura group in the Oriental Region. The three new species are each morphologically similar to different species of the Old World D. obscura species subgroup. This suggests that they are descendants of different founder species that independently colonized the tropics from the subtropical or temperate zones during the glacial ages. The new species D. hypercephala is hypercephalic not only in males but also, although less distinct, in females, unlike other hypercephalic drosophilid species in which only males are hypercephalic. This new finding of a hypercephalic species from the subgenus Sophophora, of which species are relatively easy to culture in the laboratory and include the model species such as D. melanogaster and D. pseudoobscura, will promote genetic analyses on the development and the evolution of hypercephaly.
Phylogeny of ground beetles subgenus Nialoe (s. lat.) Tanaka (Coleoptera: Carabidae; genus Pterostichus): A molecular phylogenetic approach
Authors: SASAKAWA Kôji , KUBOTA Kôhei
Published: September 2009

We constructed a phylogeny of the ground beetle subgenus Nialoe (s. lat.), genus Pterostichus (Coleoptera: Carabidae) based on two mitochondrial (cytochrome oxidase I and 16S ribosomal DNA) and one nuclear (28S ribosomal DNA) gene sequences. Thirty‐three representative species of the group and three outgroup species were analyzed. The resultant trees (maximum parsimonious, maximum likelihood and Bayesian trees of the combined data of the three gene sequences) indicated that there are two large and three small lineages in the group, some of which were supported by a previous morphology‐based phylogeny. In all the analyses, the small lineage composed of two Korean species is sister to the rest of the subgenus, but relationships of other four lineages differed among the analyses and remained unresolved. The implications of the present results are discussed in terms of taxonomy and biogeography of the group.
Oviposition behavior of Zatypota albicoxa (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae), an ectoparasitoid of Achaearanea tepidariorum (Araneae, Theridiidae)
Authors: TAKASUKA Keizo , MATSUMOTO Rikio , OHBAYASHI Nobuo
Published: September 2009

Oviposition behavior of Zatypota albicoxa (Walker) is described. This wasp parasitizes the house spider Achaearanea tepidariorum (Koch), which weaves irregular, three‐dimensional webs. Based on field observations, two modes of oviposition behavior were recognized. In one, the wasp hung on the web, pulling the thread with its fore leg, until the spider lifted it up (ambush‐style). In the other mode, the wasp climbed the web (climbing‐style). Under laboratory conditions in an aquarium, the wasp hung on the web in mid height of the gumfoot thread as in the former style, then flew toward unaware spider and paralyzed it. After paralyzing, the wasp usually rubbed the spider's abdomen with its ovipositor and tip of metasoma repeatedly at short intervals for several minutes. In all cases they adopted the same posture in which they grasped the spider abdomen with fore and mid legs during oviposition. As female wasps emerged from larger hosts and male wasps emerged from smaller ones, the ovipositing wasp apparently assesses the size of the spider and chooses whether to lay a fertilized or an unfertilized egg. In addition, it was confirmed that Z. albicoxa expelled the eggs not from the tip of the ovipositor but from the tip of its abdomen, as in other species of the Polysphincta group (e.g. Hymenoepimecis argyraphaga, Reclinervellus tuberculatus and Schizopyga circulator).
Descriptions and biological notes ofCtenoplectrabees from Southeast Asia and Taiwan (Hymenoptera: Apidae: Ctenoplectrini) with a new species from North Borneo
Authors: SUNG I‐Hsin , DUBITZKY Andreas , EARDLEY Connal , YAMANE Sôichi
Published: September 2009

SixCtenoplectraspecies are recorded from Southeast Asia and Taiwan. They areC. chalybeaSmith,C. cornutaGribodo,C. davidiVachal,C. elseiEngel,C. sandakanasp. nov. andC. vagansCockerell. Females ofC. sandakanasp. nov. from North Borneo are similar to the mainland speciesC. chalybea, but differ mainly in the clypeal keel and the length of the antennal segments. The small blackish species,C. cornuta, is distributed in Myanmar, China and Taiwan andC. davidiis distributed in China, Russia and Taiwan; both species are seen at the flowers ofThladiantha.Ctenoplectra chalybeawas collected from the Malay Peninsula, Myanmar, Taiwan and Vietnam.Ctenoplectra apicalisSmith andC. kelloggiCockerell are allied toC. chalybea; however,C. kelloggiis excluded from this study due to insufficient material. A key to the six knownCtenoplectraspecies is given. The large metallic species,C. chalybeaandC. elsei, visit flowers ofMomordica cochinchinensis(Lour.) Spreng. For the first time observations on the nest structures ofC. chalybeaandC. cornutaare presented. They choose remarkable places, such as artificial structures and buildings, for nest sites. The nest architecture prevents rain and direct sunlight from entering the nest. Bees used pre‐existing holes or crevices in wood for nesting shelters and collected soil and appeared to mix it with some other substance to build nests. The cell lining materials and rubbing behaviors against the cell wall suggest thatCtenoplectrabees use floral oil mainly for cell lining materials.
Metapopulation Dynamics and Amphibian Conservation
Authors: Marsh David M. , Trenham Peter C.
Published: September 2009

Abstract: In many respects, amphibian spatial dynamics resemble classical metapopulation models, in which subpopulations in breeding ponds blink in and out of existence and extinction and colonization rates are functions of pond spatial arrangement. This “ponds‐as‐patches” view of amphibian spatial dynamics is useful in several respects. First, it highlights the importance of regional and landscape processes in determining local patterns of abundance. Second, it offers a straightforward, pond‐based approach to monitoring and managing amphibian populations. For many species, however, the ponds‐as‐patches view may be an oversimplification and metapopulation structure may be more apparent than real. Changes in distribution may be caused by processes other than extinction and recolonization, and most extinctions probably result from deterministic factors, not stochastic processes. In addition, the effects of pond isolation appear to be important primarily in disturbed environments, and in many cases these isolation effects may be better explained by the distribution of terrestrial habitats than by the distribution of breeding ponds. These complications have important implications for both researchers and managers. For researchers, future efforts need to determine the mechanisms underlying patterns of abundance and distributional change and patterns in amphibian populations. For managers, effective conservation strategies must successfully balance metapopulation considerations with careful attention to local habitat quality. Furthermore, translocations and active management may be indispensable tools for conserving amphibians in landscapes containing multiple breeding ponds.
Habitat Matrix Effects on Pond Occupancy in Newts
Authors: Joly Pierre , Miaud Claude , Lehmann Anthony , Grolet Odile
Published: September 2009

Abstract: In farmlands, the population viability of many amphibians is suspected to depend on the resistance the matrix of crop fields presents to movements between ponds and terrestrial sites and movements among ponds. Over recent decades the increase in cereal growing at the expense of cattle breeding has caused a drastic change in habitat matrix in many European regions. We investigated the effect of such change on populations of three newt species (  Triturus helveticus, T. alpestris, and T. cristatus) by comparing their abundances in sites that varied in amount of cultivated ground. A multivariate regression analysis of the relationship of newt abundance to both pond and landscape variables demonstrated the negative influence of cultivated ground on abundance. The width of the uncultivated sector linking the pond to the forest was a good predictor of abundance after the influences of both pond area and fish presence were removed. Moreover, newt presence was positively related to the number of ponds within that 50‐ha surrounding area, highlighting the role of metapopulation functioning in newt occupancy of ponds. The relationship between newt abundance and width of uncultivated sectors agrees with present knowledge of the orientation mechanisms that underlie migration movements in urodeles. Such a relationship between connectedness and sector width shows that narrow, linear corridors such as hedgerows may not be useful in newt conservation. Our study also highlights the need to incorporate a behavioral component of habitat use into models of connectivity in conservation biology.
Pricing Policy for Tourism in Protected Areas: Lessons from Komodo National Park, Indonesia
Authors: Walpole Matthew J. , Goodwin Harold J. , Ward Kari G. R.
Published: September 2009

Abstract: Protected areas are under increasing pressure to provide economic justification for their existence, particularly in developing countries where demand for land and natural resources is high. Nature‐based tourism offers a mechanism to generate substantial benefits from protected areas for both governments and local communities, and ecotourism is increasingly promoted as a sustainable use of protected areas. The extent to which ecotourism offsets the costs of a protected area has rarely been examined. We used financial data from Komodo National Park, Indonesia, and a willingness‐to‐pay questionnaire of independent visitors to (1) examine the financial contribution of tourism in offsetting the costs of tourism and wider management and (2) assess the effect of hypothetical fee increases on park revenues, visitation patterns, and local economies. Although only 6.9% of park management costs were recovered, visitors were willing to pay over 10 times the current entrance fee, indicating a substantial potential for increased revenue. The potential negative effect of large fee increases on visitor numbers and the resultant effect on local economic benefits from tourism may limit the extent to which greater financial benefits from Komodo National Park (KNP) can be realized. Our results suggest that a moderate, tiered increase in entrance fees is most appropriate, and that partial revenue retention by KNP would help demonstrate the conservation value of tourism to both visitors and managers and has the potential to increase visitors' willingness to pay.
Extinction and Colonization of Birds on Habitat Islands
Authors: Crooks Kevin R. , Suarez Andrew V. , Bolger Douglas T. , Soulé Michael E.
Published: September 2009

Abstract: We used point‐count and transect surveys to estimate the distribution and abundance of eight scrub‐breeding bird species in 34 habitat fragments and the urban matrix in southern California. We then calculated local extinction and colonization rates by comparing our data with surveys conducted in 1987. We classified factors that influence extinction and colonization rates into two types: (1) extrinsic factors, which are characteristics of the habitat fragments such as area, age, and isolation and (2) intrinsic factors, which are characteristics of the species that inhabit fragments, such as body size and population density. Over the past decade, at least one species went locally extinct in over 50% of the fragments, and local extinctions were almost twice as common as colonizations. Fragment size and, to a lesser extent, fragment age were the most important extrinsic factors determining extinction and colonization. Density indices of scrub birds were the most important intrinsic factors determining extinction rates, predicting the number of sites occupied, the probability of local extinction, relative area requirements, and time to local extinction.
Current and Potential Ranges of Three Exotic Goldenrods (Solidago) in Europe
Authors: Weber Ewald
Published: September 2009

Abstract: The homoclime approach has been used to estimate the potential distributions of the exotic goldenrods Solidago altissima, S. gigantea, and S. graminifolia in Europe. These three rhizomatous perennial plants were introduced as ornamentals about 250 years ago. Whereas S. altissima and S. gigantea have become widespread and serious invaders of abandoned fields, forest edges, and river banks, S. graminifolia is still confined to a few sites in Europe. Climatic profiles of their native ranges have been established for each species based on nine parameters from stations throughout their American ranges. I determined potential distributions for each species by mapping European stations that match the climatic profiles. The potential distributions of all three species are substantially larger than their current distributions in Europe. Areas not yet colonized but predicted to be climatically suitable included parts of southern and southeastern Europe, Scandinavia, and the Middle East. Among the three species, the potential range of S. altissima was largest in its latitudinal extent. The discrepancy between current and potential range was highest in S. graminifolia because of its restricted distribution. My results strongly suggest that the spread of S. altissima and S. gigantea has not yet reached its limits and that their range expansion will continue. Large parts of Europe were estimated to be climatically suitable to S. graminifolia, but invasion has not yet occurred. This species is either in lag phase or its spread is limited by factors other than climate.
Edge‐Core Effects and the Effectiveness of Traditional Reserves in Conservation: Eurasian Badgers in Doñana National Park
Authors: Revilla Eloy , Palomares Francisco , Delibes Miguel
Published: September 2009

Abstract: High rates of human‐mediated mortality on animals are frequently reported inside protected areas, especially near their borders, so the overall effect of reserves on animal conservation is not usually known. To determine the effect of a traditional reserve (Doñana National Park, southwestern Spain) on the Eurasian badger (  Meles meles), a medium sized carnivore, we studied mortality causes and rates, with the aid of radiotelemetry, in two populations inside the reserve, one closer to the border than the other. Human‐related mortality ( poaching and road kills) was by far the most common cause of mortality (85% of deaths recorded). The average annual mortality rate due to poaching was high (0.48 ± 0.08) for the population close to the border of the park, whereas none of the radiomarked badgers in the core of the reserve died during the study period. A logistic model that included distance from the border of the park, sampling effort, and the local area (i.e., edge and core populations) indicated that the difference between both sites was due to the effect of distance from the border on survival probability. On a regional scale, badger density at the core of the park was 3.16 times higher than outside. Overall, the effect of the reserve was positive, but edge effects reduced reserve effectiveness by 36%. Edge effects in close proximity of the border were strong, reducing badger density even below the expected density outside the reserve. Edge effects should be considered carefully when reserves are implemented because they can greatly reduce reserve effectiveness and influence the viability of the populations inside. Enlargement of reserves and control of human activities that promote edge effects, both inside and outside the reserve, are the two management actions that can most effectively mitigate edge effects.
Effects of Selection Cutting and Landscape‐Scale Harvesting on the Reproductive Success of Two Neotropical Migrant Bird Species
Authors: Bourque Julie , Villard Marc‐André
Published: September 2009

Abstract: We measured the effects of forest harvesting at two spatial scales on the productivity of two Neotropical migrant bird species, the Black‐throated Blue Warbler (  Dendroica caerulescens) and the Ovenbird ( Seiurus aurocapillus). We selected two forest landscapes representing extremes in harvesting intensity for northwestern New Brunswick, Canada. Within each landscape, we selected study plots located either in recent (<5 years) selection‐cut stands (30% removal every 20 years) or in stands that were lightly harvested at least 30 years ago. Black‐throated Blue Warblers reached higher densities in selection cuts, but their reproductive performance ( pairing and fledging success) did not differ significantly between stand types (uncut vs. selection cut) or between landscape types (intensively vs. moderately harvested). In 1998, nonetheless, 61% of the estimated number of fledglings produced in our plots were born in selection cuts. In contrast, this proportion was only 23% for Ovenbirds in 1998 and 1999 combined. Ovenbirds had lower densities, and their reproductive performance was significantly lower in selection cuts than in uncut plots. These results indicate that the effects of selection cutting on demography are species‐specific and that Ovenbird persistence in selection cuts may be compromised unless the intensity or frequency of cutting is decreased.
Effects of Upstream Diversion of Colorado River Water on the Estuarine Bivalve Mollusc Mulinia coloradoensis
Authors: Rodriguez Carlie A. , Flessa Karl W. , Dettman David L.
Published: September 2009

Abstract: The Colorado River of the United States and Mexico is extensively dammed and diverted; only a fraction of its previous flow still reaches its estuary. How has the lack of freshwater inflow affected the estuary's biota? Because no prediversion studies are available for comparison, we examined the composition and geochemistry of subfossil shells dating from before the Colorado's diversion. The bivalve mollusc Mulinia coloradoensis was once the most abundant species of clam inhabiting the Colorado Delta. Today, however, only a small population survives near the mouth of the river. The relative abundance of empty shells of this species decreases with increasing distance from the mouth of the Colorado River, indicating that M. coloradoensis was dependent on the flow of the river. The δ18O values in shells of subfossil M. coloradoensis are significantly more negative than δ18O values in live‐collected shells of Chione fluctifraga, the most common bivalve living on the delta today. This indicates that M. coloradoensis lived in water lower in salinity than is now typical of the delta. The decline in abundance of M. coloradoensis is most likely due to the post–1930 decrease in flow of Colorado River water to its estuary. Paleontological and geochemical analyses of subfossils can provide environmental baselines for communities that existed prior to human alteration of the habitat.
Effectiveness in Conservation Practice: Pointers from Medicine and Public Health
Authors: Pullin Andrew S. , Knight Teri M.
Published: September 2009

Abstract: Practical conservation activity is increasing globally and is being undertaken by many different government and nongovernmental organizations. In the majority of cases, justification for proposed actions is experience‐based rather than evidence‐based, action is often taken without monitoring or evaluation of effectiveness, and results are rarely widely disseminated. Conservation has been compared with medicine as a crisis discipline in which action is often required urgently in the absence of good information. The practice of medicine has recently gone through an effectiveness revolution that has improved the criteria upon which treatment strategies are based by progressing from reliance on personal experience to reliance on scientific evidence. We draw parallels between medicine and conservation and present a practical framework to encourage evidence‐based conservation action. Our rationale is that conservation actions for which scarce resources are sought should be justified by good scientific evidence. In our view this will also encourage more research addressing practical issues in conservation management.
Four Factors Modifying the Effect of Competition on Carnivore Population Dynamics as Illustrated by African Wild Dogs
Authors: Creel Scott
Published: September 2009

Abstract: Limitation of predator populations by prey availability and the effects of predators on prey populations are widely recognized as important ecological processes that affect carnivore conservation. Interspecific competition can also be a strong limiting factor for carnivore populations, and the effects of competition help explain why some carnivore species are prone to extinction. Competition among carnivores is unusual in some ways, so some predictions from traditional models of competition do not hold. For example, an increase in the density of prey can increase the effect of competition among carnivores, rather than weakening it. I used published data from African wild dogs (   Lycaon pictus) to highlight four complexities that can modify the effects of competition on the population dynamics of carnivores: habitat fragmentation, counterintuitive effects of prey density, predator‐prey size ratios, and habitat type.
Biomechanical Analysis of Torsion and Shear Forces in Lumbar and Lumbosacral Spine Segments of Nonchondrodystrophic Dogs
Authors: HEDIGER KATHARINA U. , FERGUSON STEPHEN J. , GEDET PHILIPPE , BUSATO ANDRE , FORTERRE FRANCK , ISLER SAMUEL , BARMETTLER RETO , LANG JOHANN
Published: September 2009

Objective— To determine stiffness and load–displacement curves as a biomechanical response to applied torsion and shear forces in cadaveric canine lumbar and lumbosacral specimens.

Study Design— Biomechanical study.

Animals— Caudal lumbar and lumbosacral functional spine units (FSU) of nonchondrodystrophic large‐breed dogs (n=31) with radiographically normal spines.

Methods— FSU from dogs without musculoskeletal disease were tested in torsion in a custom‐built spine loading simulator with 6 degrees of freedom, which uses orthogonally mounted electric motors to apply pure axial rotation. For shear tests, specimens were mounted to a custom‐made shear‐testing device, driven by a servo hydraulic testing machine. Load–displacement curves were recorded for torsion and shear.

Results— Left and right torsion stiffness was not different within each FSU level; however, torsional stiffness of L7‐S1 was significantly smaller compared with lumbar FSU (L4‐5–L6‐7).

Ventral/dorsal stiffness was significantly different from lateral stiffness within an individual FSU level for L5‐6, L6‐7, and L7‐S1 but not for L4‐5. When the data from 4 tested shear directions from the same specimen were pooled, level L5‐6 was significantly stiffer than L7‐S1.

Conclusions— Increased range of motion of the lumbosacral joint is reflected by an overall decreased shear and rotational stiffness at the lumbosacral FSU.

Clinical Relevance— Data from dogs with disc degeneration have to be collected, analyzed, and compared with results from our chondrodystrophic large‐breed dogs with radiographically normal spines.
Percutaneous Cementoplasty in the Palliative, Multimodal Treatment of Primary Bone Tumors of the Distal Aspect of the Radius in Four Dogs
Authors: BÖTTCHER PETER , KRASTEL DOROTHEE , HIERHOLZER JOHANNES , WESTPHALEN KERSTIN , FLORIAN STEPHANIE , HILDEBRANDT GUIDO , VERA GREVEL , OECHTERING GERHARD
Published: September 2009

Objective—To (1) evaluate the analgesic effect of percutaneous cementoplasty (PC) in dogs with primary bone tumor (PBT) of the distal aspect of the radius and (2) evaluate the impact on the course of disease by adding PC to a palliative, multimodal treatment protocol in these dogs.

Study Design—Prospective pilot study.

Animals—Dogs (n=4) with PBT of the distal aspect of the radius.

Methods—Tumor lesions were filled percutaneously with polymethylmethacrylate under fluoroscopic guidance. Pamidronate was administered once in a week before PC. Radiotherapy and chemotherapy were initiated 2 and 6 weeks after PC, respectively. Force plate analysis was performed immediately before 2, and 6 weeks after PC. Survival time was defined from PC to euthanasia.

Results—Two dogs had a significant increase in peak vertical force 2 weeks after PC (P=.043) and remained free of lameness for 18 and 20 weeks, respectively. One dog had an acute relapse after an initially lame‐free period of 10 days. The remaining dog failed to improve (P=.686). Three dogs developed at least 2 complications including transient worsening of the lameness after PC, cement leakage, wound infection and suspected thromboembolism in combination with cough and anemia. Median survival was 4.8 months (range, 1–5.7 months).

Conclusions—PC in combination with pamidronate significantly improved lameness in 2 dogs; however, PC is not risk‐free. Deep wound infection, intraarticular cement leakage, and venous thrombosis were the main complications.

Clinical Relevance—PC might be a useful addition to established palliative, multimodal treatment protocols in dogs with PBT; however, because of the complications encountered PC warrants further study before routine use can be considered.
Laparoscopic Ovariectomy in Dogs: Comparison Between Single Portal and Two‐Portal Access
Authors: DUPRÉ GILLES , FIORBIANCO VALENTINA , SKALICKY MONIKA , GÜLTIKEN NILGÜN , AY SERHAN SERHAT , FINDIK MURAT
Published: September 2009

Objective:To compare surgical times and perioperative complication rates of single portal access and 2‐portal laparoscopic ovariectomy (LapOVE) in dogs using a bipolar vessel sealer/divider device, and to evaluate the performance of novice laparoscopists for right ovariectomy.

Study Design:Controlled clinical trial.

Animals:Female dogs (n=42).

Methods:Dogs were divided into groups: 1=single portal and 2=2 portal. LapOVE was performed using a 5 mm vessel sealer/divider device and a 10 mm operating laparoscope (Group 1) or a 5 mm laparoscope (Group 2). Dog characteristics (weight, body condition score, ovarian ligament fat score), operative time, and perioperative complication rate were compared between groups. Right ovariectomy duration was evaluated for 2 novice laparoscopists.

Results:No significant difference was found in mean total surgical time between group 1 (21.07 min/s) and group 2 (19.06 min/s). Factors significantly affecting times included body condition scores, ovarian ligament fat score, ovarian bleeding, and surgeon expertize. Minor complications (bleeding from ovaries or after splenic trauma) occurred and were similar in both groups. Bleeding was correlated to body condition score and ovarian ligament fat score. Interindividual differences were found among surgeons for right ovariectomy time.

Conclusions:Single portal access LapOVE using vessel sealer/divider device is feasible, safe, and does not significantly increase total surgical time in comparison with 2‐portal approach. Laparoscopic skills may play a role in ability to perform single portal LapOVE.

Clinical Relevance:LapOVE can be performed using single portal access.
Adoptive therapy by transfusing expanded donor murine natural killer T cells can suppress acute graft‐versus‐host disease in allogeneic bone marrow transplantation
Authors: Yang Jie , Gao Li , Liu Yan , Ren Yana , Xie Rufeng , Fan Huahua , Qian Kaicheng
Published: September 2009

BACKGROUND: Invariant natural killer T cells (iNKT cells) may suppress graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD) after allogeneic transplantation. The purpose of this study was to investigate the therapeutic potential of iNKT cells from major histocompatibility complex (MHC)‐mismatched donors for preventing GVHD after allogeneic bone marrow transplantation (BMT).

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: In vitro, mouse iNKT cells were expanded with α‐galactosylceramide and interleukin (IL)‐2 treatment. In the NKT‐treated group, lethally irradiated DBA/2(H‐2Kd) mice were adoptively transferred with expanded iNKT, bone marrow (BM), and spleen cells (SCs) from C57BL/6 (H‐2Kb) mice. Recipients in the control group were transferred only BM and SCs. The two groups were compared in survival, weight, histopathologic specimens, and serum cytokine analysis.

RESULTS: In the iNKT‐treated group, 80% of mice survived past Day 60 after BMT, but all died within 38 days in the control group. The mice treated with iNKT did not exhibit signs of GVHD after Day 42 except for a change in fur color. There were higher IL‐4 levels by Day 7 in serum of mice that received iNKT compared to those without iNKT treatment, while the interferon‐γ levels showed no significant difference between two groups. Levels of IL‐2 and IL‐5 increased by Day 21 only in iNKT‐treated mice.

CONCLUSION: The results suggest that donor iNKT cells could alleviate GVHD symptoms and prolong survival after MHC‐mismatched allogeneic BMT, which may be associated with the maintenance in IL‐4 levels. These findings indicate that the therapy based on iNKT cells from MHC‐mismatched donors has great potential in protection against GVHD after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.
Delayed hemolytic transfusion reaction with hyperhemolysis after first red blood cell transfusion in child with β‐thalassemia: challenges in treatment
Authors: Hannema Sabine E. , Brand Anneke , Van Meurs Alfred , Smiers Frans J.
Published: September 2009

BACKGROUND: Delayed hemolytic transfusion reaction (DHTR) can manifest with hyperhemolysis, a serious complication of red blood cell (RBC) transfusions. This has mostly been described in sickle cell anemia but occasionally in β‐thalassemia. Treatment is challenging; immunosuppressive medication has been reported to be useful by some but not others.

CASE REPORT: A 1.5‐year‐old girl with homozygous β‐thalassemia was put on a regular RBC transfusion program because of anemia with stunted growth and abnormal bone development. After the first transfusion she developed DHTR with hyperhemolysis. Further RBC transfusions could not be avoided. Despite treatment with prednisone, immunoglobulins, rituximab, and azathioprine hemolysis continued. She received an allogeneic bone marrow transplantation after conditioning using cyclophosphamide, treosulfan, melfalan, and ATG. The transplantation was followed by treatment with cyclosporin A, methotrexate, and prednisone. Because of poor engraftment and later rejection, she received a retransplantation after conditioning using fludarabine instead of cyclophosphamide and was subsequently treated with prednisone, but hemolysis continued. Only after splenectomy did she no longer need RBC transfusions and the direct antiglobulin test turned negative.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Treatment of DHTR remains challenging. The role of immunosuppressive medication such as azathioprine, cyclosporin A, and rituximab remains to be seen. Splenectomy may be helpful. Mainstay is to minimize RBC transfusions as much as possible.
Spinodal Decomposition in Tellurite‐Based Glasses Induced by Excimer Laser Irradiation
Authors: Madhar Niyaz Ahamad , Varma Kalidhindi B. R.
Published: September 2009

Tellurite‐based glasses in the TeO2–K3Li2Nb5O15, TeO2–Ba5Li2Ti2Nb8O30, and V2Te2O9 were fabricated by the conventional melt‐quenching technique. Amorphous and glassy characteristics of the as‐quenched samples were established via the X‐ray powder diffraction technique and differential thermal analysis, respectively. The as‐quenched samples were irradiated by an excimer laser (248 nm). The effect of laser power, duration of irradiation, and the frequency of the laser pulses on the surface features of the above glasses were studied. The optical microscopic studies carried out on the above systems revealed the presence of quasi‐periodic and periodic structures on their surfaces. The local compositional variations of these structures were confirmed by back‐scattered electron imaging using scanning electron microscope accompanied by energy‐dispersive X‐ray analysis. These results were convincing enough to state that the glasses in the present investigations had undergone spinodal decomposition on laser irradiation. The incidence of the interconnected texture of two different phases was observed owing to the quenching effect produced by the heating and cooling cycle of the successive laser pulses. Ring‐ and line‐shaped patterns were also observed, respectively, when the pulse frequency of the laser and the duration of irradiation were increased.
Synthesis and Gas Sensing Properties of TiO2–ZnO Core‐Shell Nanofibers
Authors: Park Jae Young , Choi Sun‐Woo , Lee Jun‐Won , Lee Chongmu , Kim Sang Sub
Published: September 2009

We fabricated TiO2–ZnO core‐shell nanofibers via a novel two‐step process. In the first step, the TiO2 core nanofibers were synthesized by electrospinning. Subsequently, the ZnO shell layers were grown in a controlled manner using atomic layer deposition. The methodology proposed in this work is expected to be one of most suitable methods for preparing various kinds of oxide core‐shell nanofibers or nanowires. We investigated the O2 sensing properties of the synthesized core‐shell nanofibers. Good sensitivity and dynamic repeatability were observed for the sensor, demonstrating that the core‐shell nanofibers hold promise for the realization of sensitive and reliable chemical sensors.
Synthesis of an AlN Polycrystalline Bulk Layer and Nanotubes by Using NH3 and Bi
Authors: Morito Haruhiko , Ide Tomoyuki , Karahashi Taiki , Orikasa Hironori , Yamada Takahiro , Yamane Hisanori
Published: September 2009

A bulk layer of aluminum nitride (AlN) polycrystals was synthesized on a boron nitride crucible surface by heating Al chunks with 5 mol% of bismuth at 1273 K for 3 h under NH3 gas flow. The fragments of the layer were characterized by X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. The platelet grains of AlN with a size of 0.1–1.0 μm and having preferred orientation of the c‐axis perpendicular to the layer were formed at the crucible side. Nanotubes 6–15 μm long and about 20–100 nm thick grew on the gas phase side of the layer.
Ovarian cancer cytoreduction induces changes in T cell population subsets reducing immunosuppression
Authors: Napoletano Chiara , Bellati Filippo , Landi Rachele , Pauselli Simona , Marchetti Claudia , Visconti Valeria , Sale Patrizio , Liberati Marco , Rughetti Aurelia , Frati Luigi , Panici Pierluigi Benedetti , Nuti Marianna
Published: September 2009

Surgery is the primary therapeutic strategy for most solid tumours; however, modern oncology has established that neoplasms are frequently systemic diseases. Being however a local treatment, the mechanisms through which surgery plays its systemic role remain unknown. We have investigated the influence of cytoreduction on the immune system of primary and recurrent ovarian cancer. All ovarian cancer patients show an increase in CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ circulating cells (CD4 Treg). CD4/CD8 ratio is increased in primary tumours, but not in recurrent neoplasms. Primary cytoreduction is able to increase circulating CD4 and CD8 effector cells and decrease CD4 naïve T cells. CD4+ Treg cells rapidly decreased after primary tumour debulking, while CD8+CD25+FOXP3+ (CD8 Treg) cells are not detectable in peripheral blood. Similar results on CD4 Treg were observed with chemical debulking in women subjected to neoadjuvant chemotherapy. CD4 and CD8 Treg cells are both present in neoplastic tissue. Interleukin (IL)‐10 serum levels decrease after surgery, while no changes are observed in transforming growth factor‐β1 and IL‐6 levels. Surgically induced reduction of the immunosuppressive environment results in an increased capacity of CD8+ T cells to respond to the recall antigens. None of these changes was observed in patients previously subjected to chemotherapy or affected by recurrent disease. In conclusion, we demonstrate in ovarian cancer that primary debulking is associated with a reduction of circulating Treg and an increase in CD8 T‐cell function. Debulking plays a beneficial systemic effect by reverting immunosuppression and restoring immunological fitness.
Recruitment of endogenous bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells towards injured liver
Authors: Chen Ye , Xiang Li‐Xin , Shao Jian‐Zhong , Pan Ruo‐Lang , Wang Yu‐Xi , Dong Xue‐Jun , Zhang Guo‐Rong
Published: September 2009

Recent studies suggest that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) possess a greater differentiation potential than once thought and that they have the capacity to regenerate damaged tissues/organs. However, the evidence is insufficient, and the mechanism governing the recruitment and homing of MSCs to these injured sites is not well understood. We first examined the MSCs circulating in peripheral blood and then performed chemotaxis, wound healing and tubule‐formation assays to investigate the migration capability of mouse bone marrow MSCs (mBM‐MSCs) in response to liver‐injury signals. In addition, BM‐MSCs from donor enhanced green fluorescent protein transgenic male mice were transplanted into liver‐injured co‐isogenic female recipients, either by intra‐bone marrow injection or through the caudal vein, to allow in vivo tracking analysis of the cell fate after transplantation. Donor‐derived cells were analysed by in vivo imaging analysis, PCR, flow cytometry and frozen sections. Microarray and real‐time PCR were used for chemokine/cytokine and receptor analyses. We successfully isolated circulating MSCs in peripheral blood of liver‐injured mice and provided direct evidence that mBM‐MSCs could be mobilized into the circulation and recruited into the liver after stimulation of liver injury. CCR9, CXCR4 and c‐MET were essential for directing cellular migration towards the injured liver. The recruited mBM‐MSCs may play different roles, including hepatic fate specification and down‐regulation of the activity of hepatic stellate cells which inhibits over‐accumulation of collagen and development of liver fibrosis. Our results provide new insights into liver repair involving endogenous BM‐MSCs and add new information for consideration when developing clinical protocols involving the MSCs.
Quantitative patch and repeated open application testing in hydroxyisohexyl 3‐cyclohexene carboxaldehyde sensitive‐patients
Authors: Schnuch Axel , Uter Wolfgang , Dickel Heinrich , Szliska Christiane , Schliemann Sibylle , Eben Ricarda , Ruëff Franziska , Gimenez‐Arnau Ana , Löffler Harald , Aberer Werner , Frambach Yvonne , Worm Margitta , Niebuhr Margarete , Hillen Uwe , Martin Vera , Jappe Uta , Frosch Peter J. , Mahler Vera
Published: September 2009

Objective: To identify the concentration of the fragrance compound hydroxyisohexyl 3‐cyclohexene carboxaldehyde (INCI) (HICC) that is sufficiently low not to cause an allergic reaction in patients with proven sensitization.

Methods: Repeated open application testing (ROAT) in 64 subjects with 2 preparations (perfume and cream) in different concentration (0.005–2.5%). Confirmatory patch testing with four preparations in two different concentrations (2.5% and 5%).

Results: The concentrations of HICC being tolerated by 90% of those sensitized to HICC are estimated as <88.2 ppm (cream) and <270 ppm (perfume) equivalent to 1.2 μg/cm2 (perfume) and 4.9 μg/cm2 (cream). Patch test preparations differed with regard to sensitivity (88.5–98.1%) and specificity (37.5–87.5%) against the ROAT result as external criterion. ROAT concentrations and the reaction strength in patch testing were inversely correlated (Kendall's tau‐b: 0.69), both indicating the existence of different degrees of susceptibility.

Conclusion: To protect 90% (50%) of people sensitized, the use concentration should be in the range of 0.009–0.027% (0.18–0.34%), depending on the product type. Taking into account these results, excessive concentrations should be avoided, as this would continue to sensitize people. Close monitoring is indispensable to prove the efficacy of any recommendations aiming to prevent induction.
Interactions among peripheral perfusion, cardiac activity, oxygen saturation, thermal profile and body position in growing low birth weight infants
Authors: Sahni R , Schulze KF , Ohira‐Kist K , Kashyap S , Myers MM , Fifer WP
Published: September 2009

Aims:  To investigate the correlation between the ‘perfusion index’ (PI) and other commonly used estimates of cutaneous blood flow [heart rate (HR), surface temperatures (ST) and central‐to‐peripheral thermal gradients (C‐P grad)] and to use this new non‐invasive tool to compare differences between prone and supine sleep position in low birth weight (LBW) infants.

Methods:  Six‐hour continuous recordings of pulse oximetry, cardiac activity and absolute ST from three sites (flank, forearm and leg), along with minute‐to‐minute assessment of behavioural states were performed in 31 LBW infants. Infants were randomly assigned to the prone or supine position for the first 3 h and then reversed for the second 3 h. PI data were correlated with HR and C‐P grad, and compared across sleep positions during quiet sleep (QS) and active sleep (AS).

Results:  Perfusion index correlated significantly with HR (r2 = 0.40) and flank‐to‐forearm thermal gradient (r2 = 0.28). In the prone position during QS, infants exhibited higher PI (3.7 ± 0.9 vs. 3.1 ± 0.7), HR (158.4 ± 8.9 vs. 154.1 ± 8.8 bpm), SpO2 (95.8 ± 2.6 vs. 95.2 ± 2.6%), flank (36.7 ± 0.4 vs. 36.5 ± 0.4°C), forearm (36.1 ± 0.6 vs. 35.5 ± 0.4°C) and leg (35.4 ± 0.7 vs. 34.7 ± 0.7°C) temperatures and narrower flank‐to‐forearm (0.6 ± 0.4 vs. 0.9 ± 0.3°C) and flank‐to‐leg (1.3 ± 0.6 vs. 1.8 ± 0.7°C) gradients, compared to those of the supine position. Similar differences were observed during AS.

Conclusion:  Perfusion index is a good non‐invasive estimate of tissue perfusion. Prone sleeping position is associated with a higher PI, possibly reflecting thermoregulatory adjustments in cardiovascular control. The effects of these position‐related changes may have important implications for the increased risk for sudden infant death syndrome in prone position.
Partnered Decisions? U.S. Couples and Medical Help‐Seeking for Infertility
Authors: Johnson Katherine M. , Johnson David R.
Published: September 2009

We examined male partners' influence on the decision to seek medical help for infertility using the National Study of Fertility Barriers. Building upon an existing help‐seeking framework, we incorporated characteristics of both partners from 219 heterosexual couples who had ever perceived a fertility problem. In logistic regression analyses, we found an association between couple‐level attitudes and medical help‐seeking even when other predisposing and enabling conditions existed. Overall, the findings highlight that both partners contribute to the infertility help‐seeking process, and that different factors may play a role in different stages of help‐seeking. Studies of infertility help‐seeking need to be more inclusive of the context that these decisions are embedded within to better understand service use.
Breast Cancer‐Related Lymphedema: Implications for Family Leisure Participation
Authors: Radina M. Elise
Published: September 2009

An estimated 20% of breast cancer survivors face the chronic condition of breast cancer‐related lymphedema. This study explored the ways in which women with this condition experienced changes in their participation in family leisure as one indicator of family functioning. Participants (N = 27) were interviewed regarding lifestyles before and after lymphedema, perceptions of personal independence, relationships with others, and personal coping. Data were analyzed using a cooperative, inductive format. Participants described a heightened sense of caution regarding participation in family leisure activities. Participants coped with lymphedema by either modifying the way they participated or not taking part in family leisure activities. Professionals may use these findings to assist women and their families in modifying leisure activities and exploring new activities.
Older Adults With Diabetes and Osteoarthritis and Their Spouses: Effects of Activity Limitations, Marital Happiness, and Social Contacts on Partners' Daily Mood
Authors: Roper Susanne Olsen , Yorgason Jeremy B.
Published: September 2009

Using daily diary data from 28 later life couples where one spouse had diabetes and osteoarthritis, we examined crossover effects of target spouses' daily activity limitations and their partners' daily mood. On days when target spouses' daily activity limitations were higher than average, partners' positive mood decreased and negative mood increased; when target wives' limitations were higher than average, husbands' positive mood was higher. Marital happiness and frequency of telephone conversations of target spouses buffered some relations. Results advance our understanding of daily health processes within later life marriages by identifying crossover effects of activity limitations of an ill spouse with the mood of their partner and underscore the role of marital happiness and social contacts in buffering these associations.
Families and Health: An Empirical Resource Guide for Researchers and Practitioners
Authors: Proulx Christine M. , Snyder Linley A.
Published: September 2009

As evidence mounts indicating that the quality of family relationships affects family member health and that the health of family members influences the quality of family relationships and family functioning, it becomes crucial for family scientists to determine and understand the mechanisms underlying these associations. An empirical resource guide for researchers and practitioners focusing on the complex relationships between family relationships, context, health, intervention, and treatment is presented.