bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Complementarity effects drive positive diversity effects on biomass production in experimental benthic diatom biofilms
Authors: Vanelslander Bart , De Wever Aaike , Van Oostende Nicolas , Kaewnuratchadasorn Pattaratjit , Vanormelingen Pieter , Hendrickx Frederik , Sabbe Koen , Vyverman Wim
Published: July 2009

1. Positive effects of species diversity on ecosystem functioning have often been demonstrated in ‘macrobial’ communities. This relation and the responsible mechanisms are far less clear for microbial communities. Most experimental studies on microorganisms have used randomly assembled communities that do not resemble natural communities. It is therefore difficult to predict the consequences of realistic, non‐random diversity loss.

2. In this study, we used naturally co‐occurring diatom species from intertidal mudflats to assemble communities with realistically decreasing diversity and analysed the effect of non‐random species loss on biomass production.

3. Our results demonstrate a highly positive biodiversity effect on production, with mixtures outperforming the most productive component species in more than half of the combinations. These strong positive diversity effects could largely be attributed to positive complementarity effects (including both niche complementarity and facilitation), despite the occurrence of negative selection effects which partly counteracted the positive complementarity effects at higher diversities.

4. Facilitative interactions were, at least in part, responsible for the higher biomass production. For one of the species,Cylindrotheca closterium, we show its ability to significantly increase its biomass production in response to substances leaked into the culture medium by other diatom species. In these conditions, the species drastically reduced its pigment concentration, which is typical for mixotrophic growth.

5. Synthesis. We show that both species richness and identity have strong effects on the biomass production of benthic diatom biofilms and that transgressive overyielding is common in these communities. In addition, we show mechanistic evidence for facilitation which is partly responsible for enhanced production. Understanding the mechanisms by which diversity enhances the performance of ecosystems is crucial for predicting the consequences of species loss for ecosystem functioning.
Onset of algal endosymbiont specificity varies among closely related species of Acropora corals during early ontogeny
Authors: ABREGO DAVID , VAN OPPEN MADELEINE J. H. , WILLIS BETTE L.
Published: July 2009

Juveniles of a number of corals with horizontal transmission of dinoflagellate endosymbionts naturally acquire and maintain Symbiodinium types that differ from those found in adult populations. However, the duration of this early period of symbiont flexibility and successional changes leading to dominance by the characteristic adult (homologous) type are unknown. To document natural succession of Symbiodinium types within juvenile corals, we monitored Symbiodinium communities in juveniles of Acropora tenuis and Acropora millepora for 3.5 years. Juveniles originating from one of three reef populations, characterized by differing adult coral‐Symbiodinium associations, were raised in a common environment. In four out of five cases, juveniles became dominated initially by a nonhomologous adult type. Changes in Symbiodinium communities associated with A. tenuis juveniles led to the establishment of the adult homologous association at ∼3.5 years of age. These changes were not linked to the onset of reproductive maturity, but may be linked to micro‐environmental changes associated with vertical growth of juvenile corals. We hypothesize that fine‐tuning of specificity mechanisms takes place during ontogeny in A. tenuis, leading to the eventual establishment of the adult homologous association. However, Symbiodinium communities in A. millepora juveniles did not change significantly over the 3.5 years, potentially reflecting (i) lack of specificity, (ii) more than a 3.5‐year delay in the onset of specificity, or (iii) lack of availability of the adult Symbiodinium type. This study demonstrates that juvenile corals may survive for extended periods of time with nonhomologous Symbiodinium types and that closely related species of Acropora differ in the timing of the onset of specificity for algal symbionts.
Reverse sex‐biased philopatry in a cooperative bird: genetic consequences and a social cause
Authors: BERG E. C. , EADIE J. M. , LANGEN T. A. , RUSSELL A. F.
Published: July 2009

The genetic structure of a group or population of organisms can profoundly influence the potential for inbreeding and, through this, can affect both dispersal strategies and mating systems. We used estimates of genetic relatedness as well as likelihood‐based methods to reconstruct social group composition and examine sex biases in dispersal in a Costa Rican population of white‐throated magpie‐jays (Calocitta formosa, Swainson 1827), one of the few birds suggested to have female‐biased natal philopatry. We found that females within groups were more closely related than males, which is consistent with observational data indicating that males disperse upon maturity, whereas females tend to remain in their natal territories and act as helpers. In addition, males were generally unrelated to one another within groups, suggesting that males do not disperse with or towards relatives. Finally, within social groups, female helpers were less related to male than female breeders, suggesting greater male turnover within groups. This last result indicates that within the natal group, female offspring have more opportunities than males to mate with nonrelatives, which might help to explain the unusual pattern of female‐biased philopatry and male‐biased dispersal in this system. We suggest that the novel approach adopted here is likely to be particularly useful for short‐term studies or those conducted on rare or difficult‐to‐observe species, as it allows one to establish general patterns of philopatry and genetic structure without the need for long‐term monitoring of identifiable individuals.
Z‐scores and the birthweight paradox
Authors: Schisterman Enrique F. , Whitcomb Brian W. , Mumford Sunni L. , Platt Robert W.
Published: July 2009

Investigators have long puzzled over the observation that low‐birthweight babies of smokers tend to fare better than low‐birthweight babies of non‐smokers. Similar observations have been made with regard to factors other than smoking status, including socio‐economic status, race and parity. Use of standardised birthweights, or birthweight z‐scores, has been proposed as an approach to resolve the crossing of the curves that is the hallmark of the so‐called birthweight paradox. In this paper, we utilise directed acyclic graphs, analytical proofs and an extensive simulation study to consider the use of z‐scores of birthweight and their effect on statistical analysis. We illustrate the causal questions implied by inclusion of birthweight in statistical models, and illustrate the utility of models that include birthweight or z‐scores to address those questions.

Both analytically and through a simulation study we show that neither birthweight nor z‐score adjustment may be used for effect decomposition. The z‐score approach yields an unbiased estimate of the total effect, even when collider‐stratification would adversely impact estimates from birthweight‐adjusted models; however, the total effect could have been estimated more directly with an unadjusted model. The use of z‐scores does not add additional information beyond the use of unadjusted models. Thus, the ability of z‐scores to successfully resolve the paradoxical crossing of mortality curves is due to an alteration in the causal parameter being estimated (total effect), rather than adjustment for confounding or effect decomposition or other factors.
Association of the toll‐like receptor 2 A‐16934T promoter polymorphism with severe atopic dermatitis
Authors: Oh D.‐Y. , Schumann R. R. , Hamann L. , Neumann K. , Worm M. , Heine G.
Published: July 2009

Background:  Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease with a multifactorial pathogenesis and increasing incidence in the Western world. A genetically determined defective function of pattern recognition receptors such as toll‐like receptors (TLRs) has been proposed as a candidate mechanism in the pathogenesis of AD.

Aim:  To study the impact of genetic predisposition of five genes encoding for pattern recognition‐related molecules for the phenotype of AD.

Methods:  We examined nine different single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) frequencies in the genes encoding TLR1, ‐2, ‐4, ‐9 and the adapter molecule TIRAP by PCR with subsequent melting curve analysis in a case/control cohort of 136 adult AD patients and 129 age and gender matched non‐atopic, healthy individuals. TLR2‐expression and ‐function in cells from genotyped individuals were analysed.

Results:  For the SNPs examined, similar genotype frequencies were found in both groups. In a subgroup of patients suffering from severe AD (SCORAD >50), a significantly increased representation of the A‐allele in position –16934 of the tlr2 gene was present (P = 0.004). Constitutive tlr2 mRNA expression in peripheral monocytes was independent of this tlr2 promoter SNP. Stimulation assays indicated that IL‐6, but not TNF‐α secretion following TLR2 stimulation is reduced in homozygous tlr2‐16934‐A allele carriers.

Conclusion:  These data indicate that TLR2 is relevant for the phenotype of severe AD in adults.
Effect of natural seasonal pollen exposure and repeated nasal allergen provocations on elevation of exhaled nitric oxide
Authors: Bergmann‐Hug K. , Wirth R. , Henseler M. , Helbling A. , Pichler W. J. , Schnyder B.
Published: July 2009

Background:  Exhaled nitric oxide (FENO) is a marker for allergic airway inflammation. We wondered whether in patients with intermittent allergic rhinitis only (i) natural pollen exposure and (ii) artificial pollen exposure by repeated nasal allergen provocations may lead to an elevation of FENO.

Methods:  In two prospective studies, we compared the FENO of nonatopic controls with the FENO of nonasthmatic individuals with mild intermittent rhinitis to tree and/or grass pollen. Study I: 13 atopic individuals and seven controls had measurements of FENO, blood eosinophils and eosinophilic cationic protein (ECP) before, during and after pollen season. Study II: 16 atopic individuals and 12 controls had nasal allergen provocations on four following days out of pollen season, with daily measurements of FENO before, 2 and 6 h after provocation, and determination of blood eosinophils, ECP and FEV1 at baseline, on days 5 and 10–12.

Results:  Natural pollen exposure (study I) caused a significant elevation of FENO in allergic individuals. Nasal allergen provocations (study II) did not elicit a statistically significant rise neither of FENO nor of blood eosinophils between baseline and day 5. However, a subgroup of four individuals with a rise of blood eosinophils during nasal allergen provocations showed also a rise of FENO.

Conclusions:  We suppose that in allergic rhinitis a concomitant reaction of the bronchial system is dependent on a strong local inflammation leading to a generalized immune stimulation.
How much specific is the association between hymenoptera venom allergy and mastocytosis?
Authors: Bonadonna P. , Zanotti R. , Pagani M. , Caruso B. , Perbellini O. , Colarossi S. , Olivieri E. , Dama A. , Schiappoli M. , Senna G. , Antico A. , Passalacqua G.
Published: July 2009

Background: The preferential association of mastocytosis with hymenoptera sting reactions is well known, but there is no data on the prevalence of clonal mast cell disorders in subjects with severe systemic reactions due to foods or drugs.

Methods: Patients with food‐ or drug‐induced severe systemic reactions, including anaphylaxis, and increased serum tryptase were studied for the presence of mastocytosis, and compared with a population of patients with hymenoptera allergy. The aetiological role of foods or drugs was assessed according to current recommendations. Systemic reactions were graded in severity according to the procedure described by Mueller. Serum tryptase was considered increased if the level was >11.4 ng/ml. Subjects with increased tryptase had dermatological evaluation and Bone marrow(BM) aspirate‐biopsy, which included histology/cytology, flow cytometry and detection ofKITmutations.

Results: A total of 137 subjects (57 male, mean age 42 years) were studied. Of them, 86 proved positive for drugs and 51 for foods. Overall, out of 137 patients, only nine (6.6%) had a basal tryptase >11.4 ng/ml, and only two (1.5%) were diagnosed with mastocytosis. This was clearly different from patients with hymenoptera allergy, where 13.9% had elevated tryptase and 11.1% had a clonal mast cell disorder.

Conclusion: The association of clonal mast cell disorders with hymenoptera allergy seems to be more specific than that with food‐ or drug‐induced systemic reactions.
No effects of a synonymous variant within the CD59 gene on its protein product in duodenal biopsies of coeliac individuals
Authors: Scerri C. A. , Xuereb‐Anastasi A. , Vidal C.
Published: July 2009

A novel rare variant within the CD59 gene was linked with coeliac disease in a family with high incidence of disease. Functional analyses of this variant were performed using complementary DNA analysis and protein analysis in paraffin‐embedded duodenal biopsies from affected individuals and controls. No effects on pre‐mRNA or size of linear protein were observed, although these results do not exclude the possible effects of this variant on co‐translational protein folding.
Characterization of a novel HLA‐A*11 allele in a cord blood unit by sequence‐based typing: HLA‐A*1141
Authors: Manfroi Silvia , Buffi Ornella , Amadei Michela , Bontadini Andrea , Nesci Sonia
Published: July 2009

The new allele HLA‐A*1141 differs from HLA‐A*110101 at the codon 120 by a substitution at the first nucleotide (GGC to CGC).
Influence of heritable social status on daily gain and feeding pattern in pigs
Authors: Chen C.Y. , Misztal I. , Tsuruta S. , Herring W.O. , Holl J. , Culbertson M.
Published: July 2009

Social genetic relationships among average daily gain (ADG, g) and feeding pattern as daily feed intake (DFI, g), daily feeder occupation time (DOT, min), and daily feeding rate (DFR, g/min) were examined using records of 547 Duroc boars. Single‐trait animal models were fitted differently for traits, including or excluding social genetic effects, random or fixed pen effects, with covariates of pen sizes and initial age or weight. Genetic parameters for feeding pattern were estimated by restricted maximum likelihood. Six sets of parameters for ADG based on literature estimates were used due to difficulty in untangling confounded effects. Positive and negative signs of direct‐social genetic covariances were interpreted as heritable cooperation and competition, respectively. Dominant and subordinate pigs were classified as pigs with higher direct and social genetic values, respectively. Correlations of estimated breeding values between ADG and DFI, DOT, and DFR were 0.46, 0.04 and 0.29 for dominant pigs. Given heritable cooperation, subordinate pigs tended to increase feed intake (r = 0.36) and eating rate (r = 0.25). Given heritable competition, subordinate pigs fail to compensate for the competition with decreased feed intake (r = −0.53). The slow eating rate (r = −0.31) was considered as a consequence of eating during less busy hour of feeding.
Selection of locations of knots for linear splines in random regression test‐day models
Authors: Jamrozik J. , Bohmanova J. , Schaeffer L.R.
Published: July 2009

Using spline functions (segmented polynomials) in regression models requires the knowledge of the location of the knots. Knots are the points at which independent linear segments are connected. Optimal positions of knots for linear splines of different orders were determined in this study for different scenarios, using existing estimates of covariance functions and an optimization algorithm. The traits considered were test‐day milk, fat and protein yields, and somatic cell score (SCS) in the first three lactations of Canadian Holsteins. Two ranges of days in milk (from 5 to 305 and from 5 to 365) were taken into account. In addition, four different populations of Holstein cows, from Australia, Canada, Italy and New Zealand, were examined with respect to first lactation (305 days) milk only. The estimates of genetic and permanent environmental covariance functions were based on single‐ and multiple‐trait test‐day models, with Legendre polynomials of order 4 as random regressions. A differential evolution algorithm was applied to find the best location of knots for splines of orders 4 to 7 and the criterion for optimization was the goodness‐of‐fit of the spline covariance function. Results indicated that the optimal position of knots for linear splines differed between genetic and permanent environmental effects, as well as between traits and lactations. Different populations also exhibited different patterns of optimal knot locations. With linear splines, different positions of knots should therefore be used for different effects and traits in random regression test‐day models when analysing milk production traits.
Identification of a Cucumber mosaic virus Isolate from Passiflora edulis in Southern Italy and Validation of Subgroup Identification by In Silico Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism
Authors: Parrella Giuseppe , Sorrentino Daniela
Published: July 2009

Reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR), comparison of nucleotide sequences and in silico restriction enzyme analysis were used to identify for the first time in Italy an isolate of Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV), belonging to subgroup II, from a disease‐affected passion fruit (Passiflora edulis) plant. We showed also that CMV sequences obtained by RT‐PCR with primers designed to a conserved region of the 3′ end of the CMV coat protein gene, combined with computer‐based restriction analysis of sequences stored in databases, can be a very powerful method for identification or validation for CMV subgroups. An accurate disease diagnosis requires reliability, high reproducibility and high throughput of the chosen method. With the proposed in silico approach, we managed to identify and validate with safety the identification of the three CMV subgroups (IA, IB and II). Isolates of CMV can be reliably identified by this method and thus it should be considered as a powerful tool for both epidemiological and management aspects of the CMV–plant interactions. The potentialities of this diagnostic method are discussed and compared with those of conventional methods.
A 10‐kDa acyl‐CoA‐binding protein (ACBP) from Brassica napus enhances acyl exchange between acyl‐CoA and phosphatidylcholine
Authors: Yurchenko Olga P. , Nykiforuk Cory L. , Moloney Maurice M. , Ståhl Ulf , Banaś Antoni , Stymne Sten , Weselake Randall J.
Published: July 2009

The gene encoding a 10‐kDa acyl‐CoA‐binding protein (ACBP) from Brassica napus was over‐expressed in developing seeds of Arabidopsis thaliana. Biochemical analysis of T2 and T3 A. thaliana seeds revealed a significant increase in polyunsaturated fatty acids (FAs) (18:2cisΔ9,12 and 18:3cisΔ9,12,15) at the expense of very long monounsaturated FA (20:1cisΔ11) and saturated FAs. In vitro assays demonstrated that recombinant B. napus ACBP (rBnACBP) strongly increases the formation of phosphatidylcholine (PC) in the absence of added lysophosphatidylcholine in microsomes from ΔYOR175c yeast expressing A. thaliana lysophosphatidylcholine acyltransferase (AthLPCAT) cDNA or in microsomes from microspore‐derived cell suspension cultures of B. napus L. cv. Jet Neuf. rBnACBP or bovine serum albumin (BSA) were also shown to be crucial for AthLPCAT to catalyse the transfer of acyl group from PC into acyl‐CoA in vitro. These data suggest that the cytosolic 10‐kDa ACBP has an effect on the equilibrium between metabolically active acyl pools (acyl‐CoA and phospholipid pools) involved in FA modifications and triacylglycerol bioassembly in plants. Over‐expression of ACBP during seed development may represent a useful biotechnological approach for altering the FA composition of seed oil.
Nitra: when did it become a part of the Moravian realm? Evidence in the Frankish sources
Authors: Bowlus Charles R.
Published: July 2009

It is frequently asserted that Imre Boba's attempt to relocate the heartland of ninth‐century Moravia cannot be correct because it is a well‐known ‘fact’ that c.830 Moimar, the first Moravian duke, drove his rival Pribina from the fort of Nitra north of the Danube. However, the only source (the so‐called Conversio Bagoariorum et Carantanorum) ever cited to support this ‘fact’ makes no such statement. While modern printed editions of the Conversio do contain a statement connecting Pribina with Nitra, editors of the text recognize that this connection must have been a marginal gloss that found its way into some manuscripts much later. Assertions that two other sources, the Heimo‐Urkunde and the Theotmarbrief, prove that Nitra was a part of a Moravian realm as early as c.830 cannot stand careful scrutiny. The Heimo‐Urkunde, an original source dated 888, does not mention Nitra at all. While it does make a passing reference to Moravians, it does not locate them geographically. The Theomarbrief, if its authenticity can be trusted, dates from c.900 and can only establish that Nitra first became a part of the Moravian realm during the reign of Duke Sventibald (c.870–94), who conquered it and converted its pagan residents.
Hydraulic adjustment of Scots pine across Europe
Authors: Martínez‐Vilalta J. , Cochard H. , Mencuccini M. , Sterck F. , Herrero A. , Korhonen J. F. J. , Llorens P. , Nikinmaa E. , Nolè A. , Poyatos R. , Ripullone F. , Sass‐Klaassen U. , Zweifel R.
Published: July 2009

DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-8137.2009.03035.xCommentary p 277
Vagus nerve stimulation induces changes in respiratory sinus arrhythmia of epileptic children during sleep
Authors: Zaaimi Boubker , Grebe Reinhard , Berquin Patrick , Wallois Fabrice
Published: July 2009

Purpose:  This study analyzed the direct short‐term effect of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) on respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) in children with pharmacoresistant epilepsy.

Methods:  RSA magnitude is calculated as the ratio between maximum and minimum heart rate for each respiratory cycle—before, during, and after the actual VNS period. In 10 children, changes in RSA magnitude were evaluated on polysomnographic recordings, including electrocardiography (ECG), electroencephalography (EEG), thoracoabdominal distension, nasal airflow, and VNS artifacts. Measurements during stimulation were compared with those at baseline, immediately preceding the VNS periods and individually for each patient.

Result:  During VNS, respiratory frequency increased and respiratory amplitude decreased with a variable effect on cardiac activity. The coupling between heart rate and respiratory rate was disturbed and RSA magnitude decreased significantly in 6 of 10 children during VNS. These changes in RSA magnitude varied from one child to another. The observed changes for respiratory and cardiac activity were concomitant with changes in RSA but were not correlated.

Conclusion:  Together with disorders of respiration, cardiac activity, and oxygen saturation (SaO2) described previously. VNS also modifies synchronization between cardiac and respiratory activity, resulting in poor optimization of oxygen delivery to tissues that can be regarded as an additive side effect, which should be considered in patients with already altered brain function. This interaction between the effects of VNS and potential autonomic nervous system (ANS) dysfunction already reported in epileptic patients should be considered to be potentially life‐threatening. In addition, evaluation of changes in respiratory parameters can also provide reliable markers for further evaluation of the effectiveness of VNS.
Treatment of early and late kainic acid‐induced status epilepticus with the noncompetitive AMPA receptor antagonist GYKI 52466
Authors: Fritsch Brita , Stott Jeffrey J. , Joelle Donofrio Joy , Rogawski Michael A.
Published: July 2009

Purpose: Benzodiazepines such as diazepam may fail to effectively treat status epilepticus because benzodiazepine‐sensitive GABAAreceptors are progressively internalized with continued seizure activity. Ionotropic glutamate receptors, including AMPA receptors, are externalized, so that AMPA receptor antagonists, which are broad‐spectrum anticonvulsants, could be more effective treatments for status epilepticus. We assessed the ability of the noncompetitive AMPA receptor antagonist GYKI 52466 to protect against kainic acid–induced status epilepticus in mice.

Methods: Groups of animals treated with kainic acid received GYKI 52466 (50 mg/kg followed in 15 min by 50 mg/kg) or diazepam (25 mg/kg followed in 20 min by 12.5 mg/kg) beginning at 5 min of continuous seizure activity or 25 min later. The duration of seizure activity was determined by EEG recording from epidural cortical electrodes.

Results: Both GYKI 52466 and diazepam rapidly terminated electrographic and behavioral seizures when administered early. However, diazepam‐treated animals exhibited more seizure recurrences. With late administration, GYKI 52466 also rapidly terminated seizures and they seldom recurred, whereas diazepam was slow to produce seizure control and recurrences were common. Although both treatments caused sedation, GYKI 52466‐treated animals retained neurological responsiveness whereas diazepam‐treated animals did not. GYKI 52466 did not affect blood pressure whereas diazepam caused a sustained drop in mean arterial pressure.

Discussion: Noncompetitive AMPA receptor antagonists represent a promising approach for early treatment of status epilepticus; they may also be effective at later times when there is refractoriness to benzodiazepines.
Nonagenarian Siblings and Their Offspring Display Lower Risk of Mortality and Morbidity than Sporadic Nonagenarians: The Leiden Longevity Study
Authors: Westendorp Rudi G.J. , Van Heemst Diana , Rozing Maarten P. , Frölich Marijke , Mooijaart Simon P. , Blauw Gerard‐Jan , Beekman Marian , Heijmans Bastiaan T. , De Craen Anton J.M. , Slagboom P. Eline ,   for the Leiden Longevity Study Group
Published: July 2009

OBJECTIVES: To compare the risk of mortality of nonagenarian siblings with that of sporadic nonagenarians (not selected on having a nonagenarian sibling) and to compare the prevalence of morbidity in their offspring with that of the offsprings' partners.

DESIGN: Longitudinal (mortality risk) and cross‐sectional (disease prevalence).

SETTING: Nationwide sample.

PARTICIPANTS: The Leiden Longevity Study consists of 991 nonagenarian siblings derived from 420 Caucasian families, 1,365 of their offspring, and 621 of the offsprings' partners. In the Leiden 85‐plus Study, 599 subjects aged 85 were included, of whom 275 attained the age of 90 (sporadic nonagenarians).

MEASUREMENTS: All nonagenarian siblings and sporadic nonagenarians were followed for mortality (with a mean±standard deviation follow‐up time of 2.7±1.4 years and 3.0±1.5 years, respectively). Information on medical history and medication use was collected for offspring and their partners.

RESULTS: Nonagenarian siblings had a 41% lower risk of mortality (P<.001) than sporadic nonagenarians. The offspring of nonagenarian siblings had a lower prevalence of myocardial infarction (2.4% vs 4.1%, P=.03), hypertension (23.0% vs 27.5%, P=.01), diabetes mellitus (4.4% vs 7.6%, P=.004), and use of cardiovascular medication (23.0% vs 28.9%, P=.003) than their partners.

CONCLUSION: The lower mortality rate of nonagenarian siblings and lower prevalence of morbidity in their middle‐aged offspring reinforce the notion that resilience against disease and death have similar underlying biology that is determined by genetic or familial factors.
Scaring Them into Learning!? Using a Snake Screen to Enhance the Knowledge Transfer Effectiveness of a Web Interface
Authors: Kock Ned , Chatelain‐Jardón Ruth , Carmona Jesus
Published: July 2009

It seems that surprise events have the potential to turn short‐term memories into long‐term memories, an unusual phenomenon that may have limited but interesting applications in learning tasks. This surprise‐enhanced cognition phenomenon is theoretically modeled based on the notion that many human mental traits have evolved through natural selection; a mathematical analysis building on Price's covariance theorem is employed in this modeling effort. Additionally, the phenomenon is discussed in the context of an online learning task, based on a study involving 186 student participants. A simulated threat was incorporated into a human–computer interface with the goal of increasing the interface's knowledge‐transfer effectiveness. The participants were asked to review Web‐based learning modules and subsequently take a test on what they had learned. Data from six learning modules in two experimental conditions were contrasted. In the treatment condition, a Web‐based screen with a snake in attack position was used to surprise the participants; the snake screen was absent in the control condition. As predicted, the participants in the treatment condition did significantly better in the test for the modules immediately before and after the snake screen than the participants in the control condition. These findings are extrapolated to classroom applications in general. Ethical considerations are also discussed.
Piezoelectric Ceramics with Super‐High Curie Points
Authors: Yan Haixue , Ning Huanpo , Kan Yanmei , Wang Peiling , Reece Michael J.
Published: July 2009

The perovskite‐like layer‐structured (PLS) Nd2Ti2O7 and La2Ti2O7 have possibly the highest Curie points of any materials. To pole these ceramics, highly textured, dense ceramics with high DC electrical resistivity are required. The ferroelectric and piezoelectric properties of lead‐free Nd2Ti2O7 and La2Ti2O7 grain‐oriented ceramics prepared by spark plasma sintering using a two‐step method are reported. The Tc of Nd2Ti2O7 and La2Ti2O7 are 1482±5° and 1461±5°C, respectively. The measured piezoelectric constant of the textured La2Ti2O7 was d33=2.6 pC/N. These results now open up the possibility of studying the ferroelectric/piezoelectric properties of the PLS family of ceramics with super‐high Curie points.
The Translucence of Twitter
Authors: ERICKSON INGRID
Published: July 2009

Erickson and Kellogg's construction of social translucence suggests that collaboration tools can be designed more effectively by balancing elements of visibility and awareness among members of the user community to instill a norm of accountability. This paper questions whether the microblogging tool, Twitter, fits these criteria. Building on interview and artifactual data, I find that although Twitter use affords ample visibility of individuals' networks, thoughts and movements, it is less effective at supporting awareness. Despite this, evidence suggests that accountability can be achieved via indirect awareness maneuvers and around critical incident to yield a form of peripheral translucence. The paper concludes with considerations of how ethnography might best address and evaluate questions of community, accountability, and translucence in future research.
Now You See It, Now You Don't: Ethnography and Selective Visibility in the Technology Sector
Authors: GRANKA LAURA , LARVIE PATRICK , RIEGELSBERGER JENS
Published: July 2009

As ethnographers practicing within an engineering driven industry, we often struggle with visibility and its effects. Exposing the methodological and technical underpinnings of ethnographic practice can bring us closer to the teams we work with, but it can also draw attention to the ways that engineering and anthropology clash. In this brief paper we describe the rationale for deliberate and highly selective visibility in our engineering‐driven workplace. We will draw on our experience as anthropologists “embedded” in teams of engineers to discuss our own claims to authority and examine how legitimacy is conferred upon ideas and actions in a technology‐driven environment.
Regular Moderate Intake of Red Wine is Linked to a Better Women’s Sexual Health
Authors: Mondaini Nicola , Cai Tommaso , Gontero Paolo , Gavazzi Andrea , Lombardi Giuseppe , Boddi Vieri , Bartoletti Riccardo
Published: July 2009

Introduction

While some evidence does exist for a positive correlation between moderate wine intake and men’s sexual health, there is no study addressing the potential correlation between red wine intake and women’s sexual function.

Aim

The aim of our study was to assess whether there is a tie between daily red wine intake and sexual function in a sample of healthy Italian women, living in the Chianti area (Tuscany) not complaining of any sexual disorders.

Methods

We recruited 798 women (age 18–50), living in the Chianti area (Tuscany), not complaining of any sexual disorders. We divided the participants into three groups: daily moderate (one to two glasses) red wine intake (group 1); teetotallers (group 2); and daily intake of more than two glasses of red wine and/or other types of alcoholic drinks (including white wine), as well as of those reporting occasional drinking (group 3).

Main Outcome Measures

All participants completed anonymously the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) questionnaire and were asked to report on their amount and type of alcohol consumption.

Results

Group 1 had significantly higher total (P = 0.001), as well as desire and lubrication domain (P = 0.001 and P = 0.001, respectively) FSFI scores than participants in groups 2 and 3. No significant differences between the groups were observed concerning sexual arousal, satisfaction, pain, and orgasm. Univariate analysis showed a significant correlation between age, alcohol consumption (P = 0.009), and a better score at questionnaire examination. During multivariate analysis, alcohol consumption was identified as an independent prognostic parameter (P = 0.002) in predicting the better score at questionnaire examination.

Conclusions

The finding that regular moderate intake of red wine is associated with higher FSFI scores for both sexual desire, lubrication, and overall sexual function as compared to the teetotaller status is intriguing. While this finding needs to be interpreted with some caution, because of the small sample size, self-reported data, and the lack of support from laboratory exams, it nevertheless suggests a potential relationship between red wine consumption and better sexuality.
Sexual Function Improvement Following Surgery for Stress Incontinence: The Relevance of Coital Incontinence
Authors: Bekker Milou , Beck Jacky , Putter Hein , Venema Pieter , à Nijeholt August Lycklama , Pelger Rob , Elzevier Henk
Published: July 2009

Introduction

Little is known about the impact of surgery for stress urinary incontinence (SUI) on female sexual function, and results are conflicting.

Aims

We aimed to clarify the impact of surgery for SUI on female sexual function.

Methods

We analyzed data collected from two studies evaluating sexual function in women after placement of the tension-free vaginal tape, tension-free vaginal tape obturator, or transobturator suburethral tape. A nonvalidated sexual questionnaire developed by Lemack, translated into Dutch, was mailed to all patients 3–12 months after the procedure.

Main Outcome Measures

Pre- and postoperative results of a nonvalidated sexual questionnaire.

Results

A total of 136 sexually active women completed the questionnaires. Compared with preoperative responses, we observed no significant changes postsurgical regarding frequency of sexual intercourse or satisfaction of sexual intercourse, although a significant postoperative decrease in urinary coital incontinence (P ≤ 0.001) was found. Postoperatively, 29 women (21.3%) reported improved sexual intercourse, and eight women (5.9%) complained of a worsening. There was a significant higher rate of preoperative coital incontinence (86.2% women with coital incontinence) in the group of women who reported improved intercourse (P = 0.01).

Conclusion

Women with coital incontinence show a significant higher improvement in sexual function after surgery for SUI compared to women without coital incontinence. Our results suggest that improvement in coital incontinence results in improvement of sexual function. Therefore, coital incontinence is a prognostic factor for improvement of sexual function following incontinence surgery.
Frequency and Correlates of Sexual Dysfunction in Women with Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Ogbera Anthonia Okeoghene , Chinenye Sonny , Akinlade Akinleye , Eregie Aihanuwa , Awobusuyi Jacob
Published: July 2009

Introduction

Sexual dysfunction (SD) in women with diabetes mellitus (DM) is an important but understudied aspect of DM complications in women with DM.

Aim

This report is an attempt to document the prevalence, clinical correlates, and determinants of SD in a cross sectional study of women with diabetes mellitus (DM).

Main Outcome Measures

The main outcome measures were demographic, clinical parameters, psychological morbidity, and frequency of SD.

Methods

A total of 58 married women with type 2 DM and 30 age-matched women who did not have DM had their sexual function and psychological status assessed using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and General Health questionnaires (GHQ 12) respectively. Glycemic control was assessed using glycosylated hemoglobin.

Results

The prevalence of SD in women with DM and in the control population was 88% and 80%, respectively. The mean (standard deviation) FSFI score in the women with DM was significantly lower than that of the control group (16.2 [9.5] vs. 21 [8.5], P = 0.02). Women with DM attempted sex less frequently than those in the control group. Poor mental health status which was found to be associated with SD was noted more in women with DM than those in the control group.

Conclusions

SD is high in women with and without DM. A possible determinant of SD in women with DM is psychological morbidity.
Using Nursing Interventions Classification as a Framework to Revise the Belgian Nursing Minimum Data Set
Authors: Van den Heede Koen , Michiels Dominik , Thonon Olivier , Sermeus Walter
Published: July 2009

PURPOSE.  To develop the revised Belgian nursing minimum data set (B‐NMDS).

METHODS.  The Nursing Interventions Classification (NIC, 2nd edition) was used as a framework. Six expert nurse panels (cardiology, oncology, intensive care, pediatrics, geriatrics, chronic care) were consulted. Seventy‐nine panelists completed standardized e‐mail questionnaires and discussed results in face‐to‐face meetings.

FINDINGS.  We initially selected 256 of 433 NIC interventions. After panel discussions, plenary meetings, and pretesting, the revised B‐NMDS (alpha version) contained 79 items covering 22 NIC classes and 196 NIC interventions.

CONCLUSIONS.  Consensus building promoted acceptance of the B‐NMDS, while the NIC provided a good theoretical basis and guaranteed international comparability.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE.  The revised B‐NMDS instrument can be used to visualize nursing activities in different applications (e.g., financing, staffing allocation).

DOELSTELLING.  Ontwikkeling van een nieuwe versie van de Minimale Verpleegkundige Gegevens (MVG).

METHODE.  De Nursing Interventions Classification (NIC, 2nd editie) werd gebruikt als raamwerk. Zes experten panels (cardiologie, oncologie, intensieve zorgen, pediatrie, geriatrie, chronische zorg) werden geraadpleegd. Zeven‐en‐negentig panelleden vulden gestandaardiseerde e‐mail vragenlijsten in en bediscussieerden de resultaten in werkgroepvergaderingen.

RESULTATEN.  We selecteerden initieel 256 van de 433 NIC‐interventies. Na panel‐discussies, plenaire vergaderingen, en pre‐tests, bevatte de herziene MVG (alpha versie) 79 items uit 22 NIC klassen en 196 NIC‐interventies.

CONCLUSIES.  Het draagvlak voor de herziene versie van MVG werd gecreëerd door het nastreven van consensus. Het gebruik van NIC vormde hierbij een geode theoretische basis en verhoogt het internationaal karakter van de nieuwe MVG.

IMPLICATIES VOOR DE VERPLEEGKUNDIGE PRAKTIJK.  De nieuwe MVG kan gebruikt worden om de dagelijkse verpleegkundige praktijk zichtbaar te maken in verschillende beleidsdomeinen (e.g., financiering, toewijzing personeel).
Prevalence of Tree Regeneration by Sprouting and Seeding Along a Rainfall Gradient in Hawai'i
Authors: Busby Posy E. , Vitousek Peter , Dirzo Rodolfo
Published: July 2009

Drought stress in tropical dry forests is thought to result in greater asexual regeneration via vegetative sprouting (e.g., basal, root, and branch layering) than occurs in moister tropical forests. We tested this hypothesis by examining the prevalence of tree sprouting and seeding in tropical forests located along a rainfall gradient on the island of Hawai'i. Additionally, we examined the potential for novel disturbance, feral pig Sus scrofa rooting and trampling, to alter patterns in tree regeneration mode. We found greater sprouting (in terms of relative density and basal area) in dry forests than in mesic and wet forests, supporting the hypothesis. We also found that feral pig disturbance is negatively correlated with the relative density and basal area of seedlings in wet forests, but is positively correlated with the relative importance of sprouting, and the richness and diversity of sprouting species. Our results suggest rainfall regimes may be an important factor controlling broad‐scale patterns in tree regeneration mode, and that exotic ungulates can significantly modify such patterns with potential consequences for the structure and dynamics of tree populations and communities.
MICROWAVE‐ASSISTED EXTRACTION AND LIQUID CHROMATOGRAPHY/MASS SPECTROMETRY ANALYSIS OF FLAVONOIDS FROM GRAPEFRUIT PEEL
Authors: WANG ZHIDAN , SHANG QINGKUN , WANG WENLAN , FENG XUEJIAO
Published: July 2009

The flavonoids of grapefruit peel were obtained by microwave‐assisted extraction. Five constituents have been identified by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry analysis such as hesperitin‐7‐O‐glucoside, isonaringin, naringin, 2′,5′‐dihydroxy‐3,4′,5,6,7‐pentamethoxyflavone and neoeriocitrin. The last two compounds are reported first in grapefruit peel. The effects of solvent, time, ratio of solvent to material (liquid/solid) and output power on the extraction were investigated. The results show that the better extraction conditions are: 80% (v/v) ethanol as extraction solvent; 3 min of extraction time, 25:1 (mL/g) as the ratio of liquid to solid; and 560 W of microwave output power. Microwave‐assisted extraction is more efficient for getting flavonoids from grapefruit peel than reflux and ultrasonic extraction methods. The yield of optimized microwave‐assisted extraction reached 5.81%.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Grapefruit is one of the delicious fruits with abundant nutrition, such as vitamin C, carbohydrate and a small quantity of some special compounds. It may have some beneficial effects on human health, with anti‐oxidant, anti‐inflammatory and anti‐cancer properties, or may act as agents of other mechanisms contributing to cardio‐protective action. The main use of grapefruit in food industries is to make fresh juice or citrus‐based drinks. The peels are often used to feed animals or are thrown away directly. Very large amounts of wastes are formed every year, because almost half of the grapefruit is composed of peels. It is reported that grapefruit peels contain a high concentrationof phenolic compounds. It is significant to find a feasible way to obtain these useful compounds from peel wastes to increase their value. In our work, microwave‐assisted extraction of flavonoids from grapefruit peel is established and discussed. The extraction yield is higher than that of using traditional extraction methods. So, the results of this paper are very helpful in utilizing and making great use of natural resources.
INFLUENCE OF OPERATING PARAMETERS ON CLARIFICATION OF CARROT JUICE BY MICROFILTRATION PROCESS
Authors: HABIBI ALIREZA , AROUJALIAN ABDOLREZA , RAISI AHMADREZA , ZOKAEE FARZIN
Published: July 2009

The clarification of carrot juice by cross‐flow microfiltration process was studied to determine the influence of different operating parameters such as transmembrane pressure (TMP) (1.5, 4.5 and 7.5 bar), cross‐flow velocity, which corresponds with Reynolds number, (300, 1,500 and 2,500) and feed temperature (20, 30 and 40C) on the flux and permeate properties. Results showed that the investigated parameters had a positive effect on the permeate flux. The TMP and temperature effects on the permeate flux was lower than the cross‐flow velocity effect. The permeate properties such as viscosity, density, pH and total soluble solid did not significantly change with variation in operating parameters, but permeate color and clarity was considerably affected at various treatment conditions. Eventually, the statistical analysis indicated that the interactional effect of cross‐flow velocity and TMP on the permeate flux was significant.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The polymeric membranes can be used in the microfiltration process for the clarification and stabilization of carrot juice. The membrane processes for clarification purposes represent a valid alternative to the use of traditional fining agents such as gelatin, bentonite and silica sol. It is because of environmental problems resulting from disposal of these fining agents as well as other difficulties that are confronted in separation processes. Clarified carrot juice coming from the microfiltration process can be commercialized or submitted to a concentration process in order to obtain a suitable product for the preparation of juices and beverages.
Why China Should Invest Its Foreign Exchange Reserves in the Major US Banks
Authors: Chen Qiangbing
Published: July 2009

The subprime mortgage crisis and the resultant inflationary monetary policy in the USA have left the Chinese economy subject to four risks in particular. First, China's exports to the USA might continue to decline. Second, in the medium term, the higher US inflation rate will lead to a weak dollar, which will negatively affect China's exports. Third, in the long term, when the US Federal Reserve decreases money supply to control inflation, the US economy might enter another recession, hurting China's exports further. Fourth, China's foreign exchange reserve assets might suffer heavy losses when the US inflation rate rises. Conventional foreign exchange investment strategies are insufficient for dealing with these four risks. Investment by China in the major US banks is suggested in the present paper. This strategy would mitigate if not eliminate all four risks. China could gain considerable financial returns on investments with only moderate risk.
Government Policies and Private Enterprise Development in China: 2003–2006
Authors: Zhao Shiyong
Published: July 2009

The relationship between government policy and economic development has been along‐standing topic of academic research and policy debate. The government of a transitional economy plays an important role in the process of economic development. Over the past three decades, the Chinese economy has been growing very rapidly, in particular because of the rapid development of the private sector. However, the performance of private enterprises is still affected by government policies. In the present paper, we examine the changes in large Chinese private enterprises' performance during 2003–2006 and test the determinants of such changes. We conclude that the Chinese Government's discriminating policies against private enterprises are the main cause of the private sector's downturn.