bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early season height differences as robust predictors of weed growth potential in maize: new avenues for adaptive management?
Authors: MCDONALD A J , RIHA S J , DITOMMASO A
Published: March 2010

McDonald AJ, Riha SJ & Ditommaso A (2010). Early season height differences as robust predictors of weed growth potential in maize: new avenues for adaptive management? Weed Research50, 110–119.

Weed interference in annual cropping systems can be highly variable from year‐to‐year, as well as spatially heterogeneous. These factors have confounded efforts to develop simple methods for predicting competitive outcomes early in the growing season. A 2‐year study was conducted with maize in competition with four annual weed species (Setaria faberi, Abutilon theophrasti, Chenopodium album and Amaranthus retroflexus) to: (i) characterise the relationship between early crop–weed height differences and weed growth potential, and (ii) assess threshold‐type decision rules based on these relationships. Analysis of 742 weed individuals suggests that early season height disparities are robust predictors of season‐long growth. For example, weeds ≤8 cm tall when maize canopy was 60 cm tall had a very low probability (c. 2%) of growing larger than 150 cm and this applied across weed species, relative emergence dates and spatial proximity to the maize row. In our dataset, weeds less than 150 cm tall were associated with low crop yield losses and weed fecundity. Precision management of weed individuals based on early season height differences may provide a reliable and practical basis for selective post‐emergence weed control that is relevant to both yield loss and longer‐term seedbank considerations.
PIM (Poppy Integrated Management): a bio‐economic decision support model for the management of Papaver rhoeas in rain‐fed cropping systems
Authors: TORRA J , CIRUJEDA A , RECASENS J , TABERNER A , POWLES S B
Published: March 2010

Torra J, Cirujeda A, Recasens J, Taberner A & Powles SB (2010). PIM (Poppy Integrated Management): a bio‐economic decision support model for the management of Papaver rhoeas in rain‐fed cropping systems. Weed Research50, 127–139.

A bio‐economic model for Papaver rhoeas designed for dry‐land cropping systems in Spain was developed. The model included four seed bank layers to simulate seed movement in the soil profile resulting from tillage, with different emergence rates and seed bank mortalities depending on soil cultivation and burial depth. Users of Poppy Integrated Management (PIM) might specify the crop sequence and any feasible combination of 38 different weed management practices (herbicide and non‐herbicide options) each year over 10 or 20 years. Weed treatment options included selective herbicides (14), non‐selective herbicides (1), non‐herbicide treatments (11) and user‐defined treatments (1). PIM represented weed and seed bank population dynamics, weed–crop competition, weed treatment impacts, agronomic practices and financial details. The bio‐economic model could be used to evaluate weed management scenarios by investigating the implications of different tillage, fallow and cereal rotational sequences and of constraints on herbicide availability. Model validation combined available data from literature with our own data, to show that PIM was sufficiently accurate for predicting P. rhoeas population dynamics. Sensitivity analyses indicated that economics associated with fuel, fertiliser and seed costs, as well as grain yield and price, were primary drivers of management decisions, whereas seedling emergence and initial seed bank size were of secondary importance.
Validation of a model relating yield loss to weed time of emergence and removal in traditional and early‐sown maize
Authors: MASIN R , BERTI A , OTTO S , ZANIN G
Published: March 2010

Masin R, Berti A, Otto S & Zanin G (2010). Validation of a model relating yield loss to weed time of emergence and removal in traditional and early‐sown maize. Weed Research50, 120–126.

In northern Italy, there has been a tendency in recent years to advance maize sowing from mid‐April to mid‐March. This may lead to many agronomic advantages but can strongly influence weed flora composition, density, time of emergence, and crop and weed relative growth. Altering the maize sowing date thus requires a better understanding of the competitive relationship between crop and weeds. This study evaluates an existing model expressing crop yield as a function of maximum yield of the weed‐free crop, weed competitive load and time of weed emergence and removal. The model can predict the yield loss caused by mixed infestations with a single set of parameters. The aim of this study was to validate this model with independent data from experiments on early and traditionally sown maize, in support of the idea that the model is robust enough to be used as a prediction tool for forecasting yield losses in a variety of conditions created by different sowing dates. In traditional sowing, the plot of expected versus observed yields showed that the model gives a good fit. However, for early sowing, the model accuracy in predicting crop yields was improved when the curve intercepts were shifted by 60 growing degree days (d °C). This shift corresponded to the difference between the onset of weed emergence in traditional and early sowing, which suggests that weeds may be less competitive when maize is sown earlier.
Quantification of the dynamics of Orobanche cumana and Phelipanche aegyptiaca parasitism in confectionery sunflower
Authors: EPHRATH J E , EIZENBERG H
Published: March 2010

Ephrath JE & Eizenberg H (2010). Quantification of the dynamics of Orobanche cumana and Phelipanche aegyptiaca parasitism in confectionery sunflower. Elymus repens. Weed Research50, 140–152.

The dynamics of the host–parasite relationship between sunflower and two broomrape species, Orobanche cumana and Phelipanche aegyptiaca, are temperature‐related. This relationship can be quantified by thermal time as measured by growing day degrees (d °C; GDD). To obtain a reliable prediction from thermal time values, studies based on a wide range of temperatures are essential. O. cumana was found to be more suited to germination under high temperatures than P. aegyptiaca. The maximal parasite germination percentage, 79% and 49% in O. cumana and P. aegyptiaca, respectively, occurred in the two species in a similar thermal time of about 500 GDD. Although, there was significantly higher germination of O. cumana seeds compared with P. aegyptiaca under the various temperature regimes, there was no effect of temperature on the number of O. cumana attachments, when compared with P. aegyptiaca. The relationship between the progress of O. cumana and P. aegyptiaca attachments and emergence and thermal time followed a sigmoid‐shaped curve. O. cumana and P. aegyptiaca biomass was found to be strongly related to thermal time.
Atopy, IgE and eosinophilic cationic protein concentration, specific IgE positivity, eosinophil count in cutaneous T Cell lymphoma
Authors: Kural Yasemin Balsever , Su Ozlem , Onsun Nahide , Uras Ahmet Rıza
Published: March 2010

Background  Even though several case studies have reported a relationship between Cutaneous T Cell Lymphoma (CTCL) and atopic diathesis, this association is still controversial. The aim of this study was to investigate the actual presence of atopic status in CTCL patients.

Methods  A total of 78 patients with both clinical and histological features typical of CTCL and 77 control cases from our outpatient dermatology clinic were included in this study. After initial evaluation and staging, all patients were investigated for history of atopic disease, serum total IgE and eosinophil cationic protein concentration (ECP), eosinophil count, serum specific IgE, and skin prick test positivity.

Results  Personal atopy in CTCL group was 23,1% (n = 18) and familial atopy was 9.0% (n = 7) whereas in the control group, these values were 11.7% (n = 9) and 7.8% (n = 6), respectively. There was no statistically significant difference, however, the number of atopic patients were higher in CTCL group than the control group (p = 0.151). Serum total IgE levels were significantly increased in patients with CTCL when compared to control group (p = 0.04). Serum specific IgE panel and prick test positivity between patients and controls were significantly different, respectively (p = 0. 03) (p = 0. 00). Eosinophil counts and ECP levels were not significantly different, respectively (p = 0.10) (p = 0.885). In high stages of CTCL, patients were found to have elevated IgE, ECP levels and eosinophil count. These results were statistically significant (p = 0.011) (p = 0.009) (p = 0.007).

Conclusion  Eventhough the number of patients with atopy in the CTCL group was higher than the control cases, there was no significant different. On the other hand high levels of serum IgE, elevated eosinophil count and specific IgE positivity may be found in CTCL patients with or without atopic disease, especially with high stages.
Immunohistochemical study of cytokeratin expression in nevus sebaceous
Authors: Kurokawa Ichiro , Nishimura Keisuke , Yamanaka Kei‐ichi , Isoda Ken‐ichi , Taniguchi Yoshiki , Tsuruta Daisuke , Tsubura Airo , Mizutani Hitoshi
Published: March 2010

Background  The histogenesis of nevus sebaceous (NS) is unclear.

Methods  To elucidate the histogenesis of NS, cytokeratin (CK) profiles were examined immunohistochemically using 10 anti‐keratin antibodies in the three stages of NS.

Results  In the first stage, stratified differentiated keratins (CK1 and 10) were reduced, and basal keratin (CK14) was increased in the epidermis and primitive follicular structure (PFS). In the second stage, in addition to reduced CK1 and CK10 expressions and increased CK14 expression, CK17 expression was strongly expressed in the sebaceous ducts in proportion to the development of sebaceous gland. In the third stage, CK14, CK17 and CK19 were expressed in secondary tumors. CK16 was not detected throughout all stages of NS.

Conclusion  These results suggest that NS is not hyperproliferative but involves hamartomatous differentiation with undifferentiated keratins.
The role of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine in developing countries
Authors: Kling Max , Zeichner Joshua A.
Published: March 2010

Cervical cancer is a preventable health problem, yet is the second most common cancer of women worldwide. More than 80% of cases occur in developing countries, and this is expected to increase to 90% by the year 2020. The five‐year survival rate of patients in developing countries is less than 50%, compared to 66% in developed nations. A worldwide HPV vaccine program would significantly reduce the spread of HPV 16 and 18 and lower the incidence of cervical cancer. Mathematical models have determined that vaccinating 66% of the population will decrease the incidence of cervical cancer by 80% over the next 40–60 years. For every five‐year delay in a cervical cancer prevention/detection program, there will be an additional 1.5–2.0 million deaths. The introduction of a vaccination program will be a challenge due to high costs, unknown durability of the vaccine, and the potential for new oncogenic strains to emerge. A global effort will be required to eliminate cervical cancer from developing counties.
Nine cases of Japan spotted fever diagnosed at our hospital in 2008
Authors: Kondo Makoto , Nishii Masami , Gabazza Esteban C. , Kurokawa Ichiro , Akachi Shigehiro
Published: March 2010

Background The diagnosis of Japan spotted fever (JSF) is very difficult in some cases. The initial diagnosis of JSF is very important to treat.

Methods We report nine cases of Japan spotted fever (JSF) with variable clinical features diagnosed at our hospital in 2008.

Results Concerning clinical symptom, the most frequent symptoms were fever (8/9) and erythema of the whole body (8/9), followed by eschar (4/9). Palmar erythema, vomiting, and headache were observed in two cases. Purpura and lymph node swelling were observed in one case. Complication with Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) was observed in one case. Laboratory findings revealed elevated plasma level of C‐reactive protein (CRP) and liver dysfunction in all cases, and decreased platelet (7/9). Interestingly, all patients had a history of presumed infection in the Southern area of Miya River, where wild Japanese deer with ticks (vector ofRickettsia japonica) may reside.

Conclusion Different procedures are performed to make a diagnosis of JSF. For an initial definite diagnosis and adequate treatment of JSF, PCR of samples taken from blood, and skin biopsy from erythema and eschar lesions are necessary. Paired serum to measure the titers of antibody against R. japonica is also important.
A chronic mutilating rhinopathy with a delayed diagnosis of mucocutaneous leishmaniasis
Authors: Karimbil Sujith Kumar , Kumari Sobhana , Celine Machiyanickel Isac , Joy Augustine
Published: March 2010

Background  Mucocutaneous leishmaniasis is a granulomatous disease clinically characterized by ulcerated skin and mucosal lesions. Mucocutaneous leishmaniasis is very rare in India and to our knowledge, only two cases have been reported, and this is the first case of mucocutaneous leishmaniasis presenting with mutilating rhinopathy reported from the Indian subcontinent.

Case report  A 64‐year‐old man presented with a destructive ulceration of the central face of 23 years’ duration, who was diagnosed to have mucocutaneous leishmaniasis, and showed dramatic response to intramuscular injections of sodium stibogluconate.

Results  Histopathologic examination of skin biopsy revealed a granulomatous infiltrate with the presence of leishmania donovani (LD) bodies. The clinical picture, plus the pathologic findings, and the response to sodium stibogluconate confirmed mucocutaneous leishmaniasis.

Conclusion  Mucocutaneous leishmaniasis is a rare disease in the Indian subcontinent, and clinicians from this region should have a high index of suspicion on encountering mucocutaneous ulcerative lesions.
Defining the patient at high risk for melanoma
Authors: Psaty Estee L. , Scope Alon , Halpern Allan C. , Marghoob Ashfaq A.
Published: March 2010

In this practical review, we aim to help clinicians identify patients who are at significant risk of developing malignant melanoma. Universal screening is challenging, thus it is important to effectively single out patients who have a high risk of developing the disease. We provide a summary of pertinent questions to review when taking the patient's history, point out the phenotypic features to note during skin examination, and suggest risk stratification as a means to plan initial and long‐term surveillance strategy. We mention personal and family history of melanoma as prime risk factors for melanoma, yet the review also focuses on the patient who has no history of melanoma, either in himself or his family, and the proper ways to evaluate his likelihood of developing the disease.
Large‐scale worldwide observational study of adherence with acne therapy
Authors: Dréno Brigitte , Thiboutot Diane , Gollnick Harald , Finlay Andrew Y. , Layton Alison , Leyden James J. , Leutenegger Eric , Perez Montserrat ,   on behalf of the Global Alliance to Improve Outcomes in Acne
Published: March 2010

Acne is a common chronic disease that typically requires prolonged treatment. Several small studies conducted over the past few years suggest that adherence to acne medications is often poor. In addition, data regarding the factors that positively or negatively impact adherence in patients with acne are sparse. This study utilized a simple, validated questionnaire (ECOB, Elaboration d’un outil d’evaluation de l’observance des traitements medicamenteux) to assess the risk of poor adherence in a large worldwide cohort of acne patients (n = 3339) from three major geographic regions [the Americas (n = 952), Europe (n = 1196), and Asia (n = 1191). In addition, information about patient and treatment characteristics was collected to identify factors that correlated with adherence. Overall, there was a poor adherence rate of 50% in this study; this varied by region, with significantly worse adherence in Europe versus Asia and America (poor adherence rates of 58%, 48%, and 43%, respectively, P < 0.0001). To provide insight into factors that affect medication‐taking behavior in acne, adherence was analyzed by the type of treatment (a combination of topical and systemic, topical only, oral isotretinoin). Among patients taking a combination of both systemic and topical therapy, 60% (n = 944) of patients had poor adherence to at least one treatment as defined in the study protocol. In this group, there was a higher proportion of patients who had poor adherence to systemic treatment versus topical treatment (54% vs. 44%, respectively). Among patients treated with topical therapy only, poor adherence occurred in 40% (n = 356) of cases. A total of 46% (n = 325) of patients using oral isotretinoin therapy had poor adherence. Multivariate analysis showed that poor adherence was independently correlated with young age (most strongly with <15 years but also in the age group from 15 to 25 years), the occurrence of side effects, lack of improvement as evaluated by dermatologist, previous systemic therapy, lack of knowledge about acne treatment, consultation with a primary care physician, and lack of patient satisfaction with treatment. Factors that had a positive effect on adherence were more severe acne, use of cosmetics (moisturizers, cleansers), use of either topical therapy alone or isotretinoin, good clinical improvement as evaluated by the dermatologist, patient satisfaction with therapy, and knowledge of acne treatment.
Effect of LPS on Reproductive System at the Level of the Pituitary of Anestrous Ewes
Authors: Herman AP , Romanowicz K , Tomaszewska‐Zaremba D
Published: March 2010

Contents

In our research we focused our attention on the effect of the immune stress induced by bacterial endotoxin–lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis (HPG) at the pituitary level. We examined the effect of intravenous (i.v.) LPS injection on luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) release from the anterior pituitary gland (AP) in anestrous ewes. The effect of endotoxin on prolactin and cortisol circulating levels was also determined. We also researched the effect of immune challenge on the previously mentioned pituitary hormones and their receptors genes expression in the AP. Our results demonstrate that i.v. LPS injection decreased the plasma concentration of LH (23%; p < 0.05) and stimulates cortisol (245%; p < 0.05) and prolactin (60%; p < 0.05) release but has no significant effect on the FSH release assayed during 6 h after LPS treatment in comparison with the control levels. The LPS administration affected the genes expression of gonadotropins’β‐subunits, prolactin and their receptors in the AP. Endotoxin injection significantly decreased the LHβ and LH receptor (LHR) gene expression (60%, 64%; p < 0.01 respectively), increased the amount of mRNA encoding FSHβ, FSH receptor (FSHR) (124%, 0.05; 166%, p < 0.01; respectively), prolactin and prolactin receptor (PRLR) (50%, 47%, p < 0.01; respectively). The presented, results suggest that immune stress is a powerful modulator of the HPG axis at the pituitary level. The changes in LH secretion could be an effect of the processes occurring in the hypothalamus. However, the direct effect of immune mediators, prolactin, cortisol and other components of the hypothalamic pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis on the activity of gonadotropes has to be considered as well. Those molecules could affect LH synthesis directly through a modulation at all stages of LHβ secretion as well as indirectly influencing the GnRHR expression and leading to reduced pituitary responsiveness to GnRH stimulation.
B‐mode Ultrasound and Grey‐Scale Analysis of the Epididymis in Boars, and the Relationship to Semen Parameters
Authors: Kauffold J , Kessler M , Richter A , Beynon N , Wehrend A
Published: March 2010

Contents

This study investigated the epididymis of mature boars (n = 10) by means of B‐mode ultrasound and grey‐scale analysis (GSA) for echogenicity (EG) determination using an ultrasound unit HS 1500V, a linear transducer (frequencies 7.5–9.0 MHz), and standardized unit settings. All boars had their epididymal caput, corpus and cauda scanned six times before and after semen collection, respectively, at weekly intervals. Semen was subjected to spermatological examination including volume, total and forward motility, sperm abnormalities, as well as total sperm count and concentration. The caput and corpus both had a homogeneous fine echotexture. The cauda was homogeneous too but had a marbled echotex‐ture. Echogenicity before and after semen collection was caput > corpus > cauda, respectively (p < 0.001). Echogenicity was higher before than after semen collection for all parts of the epididymis, respectively (p < 0.001). Echogenicity of the caput correlated slightly positively with the total sperm count pre‐collection (r = 0.301; p = 0.020) and with ejaculate volume pre‐ and post‐collection (r = 0.302 vs 0.306; p = 0.017 vs 0.019), and slightly negatively with sperm concentration post‐collection (r = −0.275; p = 0.034). No relationship was found for EG of the corpus and cauda for any of the ejaculate parameters. In conclusion, B‐mode ultrasound and GSA proved feasible for imaging the epididymis in boars. Single relationships between EG and ejaculate parameters were found and deserve further investigation.
Spontaneous pneumothorax: time for some fresh air
Authors: Simpson G.
Published: March 2010

Conventional teaching on the mechanisms and treatment of spontaneous pneumothorax is either obviously wrong or based on a misunderstanding of the natural history of the condition. Spontaneous pneumothorax is a generally benign, self‐limiting condition where conservative management should be considered. If intervention is needed, medical thoracoscopy might be the procedure of choice.
The ‘CaP Calculator’: an online decision support tool for clinically localized prostate cancer
Authors: Katz Matthew S. , Efstathiou Jason A. , D’Amico Anthony V. , Kattan Michael W. , Sanda Martin G. , Nguyen Paul L. , Smith Matthew R. , Carroll Peter R. , Zietman Anthony L.
Published: March 2010

Study Type – Prognosis (risk model) Level of Evidence 2a

OBJECTIVE

To design a decision‐support tool to facilitate evidence‐based treatment decisions in clinically localized prostate cancer, as individualized risk assessment and shared decision‐making can decrease distress and decisional regret in patients with prostate cancer, but current individual models vary or only predict one outcome of interest.

METHODS

We searched Medline for previous reports and identified peer‐reviewed articles providing pretreatment predictive models that estimated pathological stage and treatment outcomes in men with biopsy‐confirmed, clinical T1‐3 prostate cancer. Each model was entered into a spreadsheet to provide calculated estimates of extracapsular extension (ECE), seminal vesicle invasion (SVI), and lymph node involvement (LNI). Estimates of the prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) outcome after radical prostatectomy (RP) or radiotherapy (RT), and clinical outcomes after RT, were also entered. The data are available at http://www.capcalculator.org.

RESULTS

Entering a patient’s 2002 clinical T stage, Gleason score and pretreatment PSA level, and details from core biopsy findings, into the CaP Calculator provides estimates from predictive models of pathological extent of disease, four models for ECE, four for SVI and eight for LNI. The 5‐year estimates of PSA relapse‐free survival after RT and 10‐year estimates after RP were available. A printout can be generated with individualized results for clinicians to review with each patient.

CONCLUSIONS

The CaP Calculator is a free, online ‘clearing house’ of several predictive models for prostate cancer, available in an accessible, user‐friendly format. With further development and testing with patients, the CaP Calculator might be a useful decision‐support tool to help doctors promote evidence‐based shared decision‐making in prostate cancer.
Menopausal transition and the risk of urinary incontinence: results from a British prospective cohort
Authors: Mishra Gita D. , Cardozo Linda , Kuh Diana
Published: March 2010

Study Type – Aetiology (inception cohort) Level of Evidence 2b

OBJECTIVE To investigate the effect of menopausal transition and age on symptoms of urinary incontinence in midlife.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS The study included a nationally representative cohort of 1211 women followed up since their birth in 1946 and annually from 48–54 years; their menopausal transition status and symptoms of stress, urge, and severe urinary incontinence (UI) at 7 consecutive years from ages 48–54 were assessed.

RESULTS From Generalized Estimating Equations, women who became perimenopausal (‘pre‐peri’) or those experiencing perimenopause for >1 year (‘peri‐peri’) were more likely to have symptoms of stress UI than were postmenopausal women; the odds ratio (95% confidence interval) was; pre‐peri 1.39 (1.11–1.73); and peri‐peri 1.39 (1.4–1.71). Menopausal transition status was not associated with urge or severe UI. These relationships were not explained by age, childhood enuresis, reproductive factors, previous health status, body mass index and educational qualifications.

CONCLUSION This study is unique in being able to disentangle the effects of age, menopausal transitions, and other life‐long risk factors on UI. Menopausal transition was only related to stress UI, while increasing age was related to both stress and urge UI. This study suggests that there are both shared and distinct aetiological pathways leading to each type of UI.
Marine range shifts and species introductions: comparative spread rates and community impacts
Authors: Sorte Cascade J. B. , Williams Susan L. , Carlton James T.
Published: March 2010

Aim  Shifts in species ranges are a predicted and realized effect of global climate change; however, few studies have addressed the rates and consequence of such shifts, particularly in marine systems. Given ecological similarities between shifting and introduced species, we examined how our understanding of range shifts may be informed by the more established study of non‐native species introductions.

Location  Marine systems world‐wide.

Methods  Database and citation searches were used to identify 129 marine species experiencing range shifts and to determine spread rates and impacts on recipient communities. Analyses of spread rates were based on studies for which post‐establishment spread was reported in linear distance. The sizes of the effects of community impacts of shifting species were compared with those of functionally similar introduced species having ecologically similar impacts.

Results  Our review and meta‐analyses revealed that: (1) 75% of the range shifts found through the database search were in the poleward direction, consistent with climate change scenarios, (2) spread rates of range shifts were lower than those of introductions, (3) shifting species spread over an order of magnitude faster in marine than in terrestrial systems, and (4) directions of community effects were largely negative and magnitudes were often similar for shifters and introduced species; however, this comparison was limited by few data for range‐shifting species.

Main conclusions  Although marine range shifts are likely to proceed more slowly than marine introductions, the community‐level effects could be as great, and in the same direction, as those of introduced species. Because it is well‐established that introduced species are a primary threat to global biodiversity, it follows that, just like introductions, range shifts have the potential to seriously affect biological systems. In addition, given that ranges shift faster in marine than terrestrial environments, marine communities might be affected faster than terrestrial ones as species shift with climate change. Regardless of habitat, consideration of range shifts in the context of invasion biology can improve our understanding of what to expect from climate change‐driven shifts as well as provide tools for formal assessment of risks to community structure and function.
The role of non‐native plants and vertebrates in defining patterns of compositional dissimilarity within and across continents
Authors: Winter Marten , Kühn Ingolf , La Sorte Frank A. , Schweiger Oliver , Nentwig Wolfgang , Klotz Stefan
Published: March 2010

Aim  Human activities have led to the spread and establishment of increasing numbers of non‐native species. Here we assess whether non‐native plant and vertebrate species have affected species compositions within and across Europe and North America. We also assess the effects of intra‐continental species exchange using the example of vertebrates.

Location  European countries and North America (states in the contiguous United States and provinces of Canada).

Methods  We measured compositional dissimilarity of native and non‐native assemblages of vascular plants and vertebrates and related these patterns to climatic dissimilarity and geographical distance. We considered three categories of non‐native species (introduced after ad 1500), namely: those (1) originating outside of both continents, (2) native to one continent and non‐native to the other, and (3) native in a particular region of a continent but non‐native in another region.

Results  The presence of non‐native plants and vertebrates led to more homogeneous species compositions between continents and to less homogeneous species composition within Europe compared with the native assemblages. In North America, the presence of non‐native plants led to more homogeneous species compositions and the presence of non‐native vertebrates had no effect. Species compositions being more homogeneous than the native composition were found for the three categories of non‐native vertebrate species for both continents. Between continents, climate was a better predictor of compositional dissimilarity for non‐native plants, whereas for vertebrates the explanatory power of climate and geographical distance were comparable. By contrast, within continents, climate was a better predictor of compositional dissimilarity of both plants and vertebrates.

Conclusions  We found clear evidence for biotic homogenization as a consequence of species displacement. However, in relation to overall species richness this effect was rather small, indicating that floras and faunas are still quite distinct. Therefore, claiming that we already face homogeneous biotas might be premature, although clear indications are visible which should raise a note of caution, especially in the light of increasing globalization.
Idealizing, Abstracting, and Semantic Dispositionalism
Authors: Podlaskowski Adam C. , Jones Nicholaos J.
Published: March 2010

Abstract: According to certain dispositional accounts of meaning, an agent's meaning is determined by the dispositions that an idealized version of this agent has in optimal conditions. We argue that such attempts cannot properly fix meaning. For even if there is a way to determine which features of an agent should be idealized without appealing to what the agent means, there is no non‐circular way to determine how those features should be idealized. We sketch an alternative dispositional account that avoids this problem, according to which an agent's meaning is determined by the dispositions that an abstract version of this agent has in optimal conditions.
Husserl on Perceptual Constancy
Authors: Madary Michael
Published: March 2010

Abstract: In philosophy, perceptual constancy refers to the puzzling phenomenon of the perception of properties of objects despite our changing experience of those properties. Husserl developed a sophisticated description of perceptual constancy. In this paper I sketch Husserl's approach, which focuses on the suggestion that perception is partly constituted by the continuous interplay of intention and fulfilment. Unlike many contemporary theories, this framework gives us a way to understand the relationship between different appearances of the same object. I will show how Husserl's work connects with contemporary theories which emphasize perceptual constancy from particular perspectives. These theories include appeals to perspectival properties and Cohen's counterfactual theory. Also, I show how Husserl's account shares important themes with Kelly's recent interpretation of Merleau‐Ponty on perceptual constancy.
Negative and atypical story content themes depicted by children with behaviour problems
Authors: Wan Ming Wai , Green Jonathan
Published: March 2010

Background:  Specific thematic content arising from children’s doll play is often considered to give clinically meaningful information regarding their mental state, but has received little systematic enquiry. This exploratory study examined the negative and atypical content themes in the attachment story narratives of children with behaviour problems, and their associations with child symptomatology and parental depressed mood.

Method:  Videotaped mother–child attachment doll play completions of 77 children from a clinical sample were blind coded for negative content themes. Mothers completed questionnaires for maternal depression and child behaviour.

Results:  Children rating positive for behaviour disorder were more likely to represent maternal injury, role reversal and marked maternal sadness. Severe behavioural symptoms were associated with more pervasive negative themes. Half of the overall sample depicted child accidents and maternal unresponsiveness, whereas child aggression, child anger and maternal absence were rare. Girls with depressed mothers showed an absence of particular negative representations (e.g., child sadness) compared to boys.

Conclusions:  Specific atypical themes are associated with the extent of child psychopathology and may be modified by exposure to maternal depressed mood. The methodological limitations in this exploratory study are also discussed.
LIF‐dependent JAK3 activation is not essential for retinal degeneration
Authors: Lange Christina , Thiersch Markus , Samardzija Marijana , Bürgi Sandra , Joly Sandrine , Grimm Christian
Published: March 2010

J. Neurochem. (2010) 113, 1210–1220.

Retinal degeneration causes the induction of a leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF)‐controlled survival pathway which includes Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription signaling. Lack of LIF prevents activation of this signaling cascade and accelerates disease progression leading to a fast loss of photoreceptor cells. In this study, we show that expression of Janus kinase 3 (Jak3), but not of the other members of the family of Janus kinases, is induced in four different models of retinal degeneration and that LIF is essential and sufficient to activate Jak3 gene expression. We also show that the induction of Jak3 and Lif may not depend directly on cell death but rather on the retinal stress during photoreceptor degeneration. However, despite its dependence on LIF, JAK3 is not essential for LIF‐mediated photoreceptor protection or gene expression. Also, absence of JAK3 in knockout mice did not affect immune‐related responses in the degenerating retina. JAK3 may therefore play a different, yet unknown, role in the retinal response to photoreceptor injury.
Cdk5 is a major regulator of p38 cascade: relevance to neurotoxicity in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Chang Kuei‐Hua , De Pablo Yolanda , Lee Hyun‐pil , Lee Hyoung‐gon , Smith Mark A. , Shah Kavita
Published: March 2010

J. Neurochem. (2010) 113, 1221–1229.

Cyclin‐dependent kinase (Cdk) 5 and p38 activities are significantly increased in Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). Both p38 and Cdk5 promote neurodegeneration upon deregulation. However, to date the mechanistic link between Cdk5 and p38 remains unclear. This study presents the first mechanism showing Cdk5 as a major regulator of p38 cascade in neurons and in transgenic mouse model of AD. Using β‐amyloid and glutamate as the neurotoxic stimuli, our results show that deregulated Cdk5 induces p38 activation by increasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) in neuronal cells and in primary cortical neurons. Elimination of ROS inhibits p38 activation, revealing ROS as major stimuli of the p38 cascade. Importantly, Cdk5‐mediated p38 activation increases c‐Jun expression, thereby revealing a mechanistic link between deregulated Cdk5 and c‐Jun level in AD brains. c‐Jun is over‐expressed in AD, and is believed to contribute significantly to neurodegeneration. Based on the proposed mechanism, Cdk5 inhibition is more neuroprotective relative to p38 and c‐Jun, suggesting that Cdk5 is an upstream regulator of neurodegenerative pathways triggered by p38 and a preferable therapeutic target for AD.
Undirected motility of filamentous cyanobacteria produces reticulate mats
Authors: SHEPARD R. N. , SUMNER D. Y.
Published: March 2010

The roles of biology in the morphogenesis of microbial mats and stromatolites remain enigmatic due to the vast array of physical and chemical influences on morphology. However, certain microbial behaviors produce complex morphological features that can be directly attributed to motility patterns. Specifically, laboratory experiments with a strain of the cyanobacteria Pseudanabaena demonstrate that distinctive morphologies arise from the undirected gliding and colliding of filaments. When filamentous cells collide, they align and clump, producing intersecting ridges surrounding areas with low cell density, i.e. reticulate structures. Cell motility is essential for the development of reticulates and associated structures: filaments organize into reticulates faster than cell division and growth, and conditions that inhibit motility also inhibit reticulate formation. Cell density of the inoculum affects the frequency of cell–cell collisions, and thus the time required for biofilm organization into reticulate structures. This also affects the specific geometry of the reticulates. These patterns are propagated into larger structures as cyanobacterial cell numbers increase and cells remain motile. Thus, cell motility is important for templating and maintaining the morphology of these microbial communities, demonstrating a direct link between a microbial behavior and a community morphology. Reticulate geometries have been identified in natural microbial mats as well as in the fossil record, and these structures can be attributed to the motility of filamentous bacteria.
Language Fouls in Teaching Ecology: Why Traditional Metaphors Undermine Conservation Literacy
Authors: CACHELIN ADRIENNE , NORVELL RUSSELL , DARLING ANN
Published: March 2010

Abstract:  We believe that the language commonly used in teaching actually hinders the creation of conservation literacy. We examined four frequently used ecology and environmental studies textbooks and considered the ways in which commonly used language can obscure or enhance an understanding of ecology and conservation. Specifically, we used the Sapir–Whorf hypothesis (a.k.a. linguistic relativity) and framing theory to examine the approaches reflected in three elements of the texts: introductions and treatment of two key ecological concepts (matter cycling and energy). Language used in the texts contained implicit metaphors that portrayed nature as a resource; resisted ecological realities, such as the finite nature of matter and the loss of energy with each transformation; and fundamentally served to separate humans from nature. Although the basis of conservation literacy is understanding of the complexity of ecological systems, culturally based communication as exemplified in these texts does not encourage students or educators to recognize the feedback loops that clarify human membership in the ecosystem. Consequently, the language used to teach ecology perpetuates the idea that humans exist outside of its laws. With this paper, we hope to initiate a dialogue about how to retool the language used in teaching and communicating about ecology such that it resonates with, rather than undermines, conservation.
A Phylogenetic Approach to Conserving Amazonian Biodiversity
Authors: LÓPEZ‐OSORIO FEDERICO , MIRANDA‐ESQUIVEL DANIEL RAFAEL
Published: March 2010

Abstract:  Amazonia is a highly threatened rainforest that encompasses a major proportion of Earth's biological diversity. Our main goal was to establish conservation priorities for Amazonia's areas of endemism on the basis of measures of evolutionary distinctiveness. We considered two previously identified sets of areas of endemism. The first set consisted of eight large areas used traditionally in biogeographical studies: Belém, Tapajós, Xingu, Guiana, Rondônia, Imeri, Inambari, and Napo. The second set consisted of 16 smaller areas that were subdivisions of the larger areas. We assembled a data set of 50 phylogenies that represented 16 orders and 1715 distributional records. We identified priority conservation areas for the areas of endemism according to node‐based metrics of evolutionary distinctiveness. We contrasted these results with priority areas identified on the basis of raw species richness and species endemicity. For the larger areas, we identified Guiana and Inambari as the first‐ and second‐most important areas for conservation. The remaining areas in this first group scored half (e.g., Napo) or less than Guiana and Inambari on all indices. For the smaller areas, a subdivision of Guiana (i.e., Guyana and the Brazilian states of Roraima and Amazonas) was at the top of the ranking and was followed by a subdivision of Inambari (i.e., northwestern portion of Amazonas) and then another subdivision of Guiana (i.e., Suriname, French Guiana, and the Brazilian state of Amapá). The distinctiveness‐based rankings of the priority of areas correlated directly with those derived from species richness and species endemicity. Current conservation strategies in Amazonia, although they rely on many other criteria apart from phylogeny, are focusing on the most important areas for conservation we identified here.
Preservation of Existing Soft‐Tissue Contours in the Transition from a Tooth to an Implant Restoration in the Esthetic Zone Using a Flapless Approach: A Clinical Report
Authors: Koutrach Mohamad , Nimmo Arthur
Published: March 2010

Two‐stage placement of a dental implant is a well‐established method for restoring a missing anterior tooth; however, replacement of an anterior tooth by using two‐stage implant surgery may result in changes in the interdental papilla height and loss of alveolar bone with compromised esthetic results. Alternatively, the use of a one‐stage minimally invasive surgical technique followed by immediate provisionalization may facilitate achievement of esthetic and functional success with minimal discomfort and clinical time. This article presents a clinical case with a single anterior tooth replacement, illustrating ridge preservation with healing, delayed implant placement with immediate provisionalization of the implant to support the soft tissue, and a method of recording the soft‐tissue contour in the final impression to achieve an optimal esthetic result.
Influence of Cusp Inclination on Stress Distribution in Implant‐Supported Prostheses. A Three‐Dimensional Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Falcón‐Antenucci Rosse Mary , Pellizzer Eduardo Piza , De Carvalho Paulo Sergio Perri , Goiato Marcelo Coelho , Noritomi Pedro Yoshito
Published: March 2010

Purpose: The aim of this study was to assess the influence of cusp inclination on stress distribution in implant‐supported prostheses by 3D finite element method.

Materials and Methods: Three‐dimensional models were created to simulate a mandibular bone section with an implant (3.75 mm diameter × 10 mm length) and crown by means of a 3D scanner and 3D CAD software. A screw‐retained single crown was simulated using three cusp inclinations (10°, 20°, 30°). The 3D models (model 10d, model 20d, and model 30d) were transferred to the finite element program NeiNastran 9.0 to generate a mesh and perform the stress analysis. An oblique load of 200 N was applied on the internal vestibular face of the metal ceramic crown.

Results: The results were visualized by means of von Mises stress maps. Maximum stress concentration was located at the point of application. The implant showed higher stress values in model 30d (160.68 MPa). Cortical bone showed higher stress values in model 10d (28.23 MPa).

Conclusion: Stresses on the implant and implant/abutment interface increased with increasing cusp inclination, and stresses on the cortical bone decreased with increasing cusp inclination.
Updating Parameters of the Chicken Processing Line Model
Authors: Kurowicka Dorota , Nauta Maarten , Jozwiak Katarzyna , Cooke Roger
Published: March 2010

A mathematical model of chicken processing that quantitatively describes the transmission of Campylobacter on chicken carcasses from slaughter to chicken meat product has been developed in Nauta et al. (2005). This model was quantified with expert judgment. Recent availability of data allows updating parameters of the model to better describe processes observed in slaughterhouses. We propose Bayesian updating as a suitable technique to update expert judgment with microbiological data. Berrang and Dickens's data are used to demonstrate performance of this method in updating parameters of the chicken processing line model.
Right Coronary Artery Damage during Cavotricuspid Isthmus Ablation
Authors: CALDWELL JANE C. , FATH‐ODOUBADI FARZIN , GARRATT CLIFFORD J.
Published: March 2010

Radiofrequency ablation of the cavotricuspid isthmus is the first‐line treatment for typical atrial flutter. Despite the close proximity of the right coronary artery (RCA) to the cavotricuspid isthmus, only four cases of arterial injury have been reported during radiofrequency ablation, all detected postablation by inferior ST elevation. Here, we report atrioventricular (AV) conduction delay during coronary sinus pacing as a possible early sign of RCA involvement and review the previous literature on RCA damage and variations of AV nodal circulation. (PACE 2010; 33:e110–e113)
Idiopathic Ventricular Tachycardia Originating from the Left Ventricle Near the His Bundle
Authors: YAMADA TAKUMI , PLUMB VANCE J. , ALLRED JAMES D. , McELDERRY H. THOMAS , DOPPALAPUDI HARISH , KAY G. NEAL
Published: March 2010

A 62‐year‐old man with idiopathic ventricular tachycardia (VT) exhibiting left bundle branch block and left inferior axis QRS morphology with a Qr in lead III underwent electrophysiological testing. Successful ablation was achieved in the left ventricle (LV) at a site with an excellent pace map, adjacent to the His bundle electrogram recording site. At that site, the sequence of the ventricular electrogram and late potential recorded during sinus rhythm reversed during spontaneous premature ventricular contractions with the same QRS morphology as the VT. This case shows that VT can arise from the LV ostium adjacent to the membranous septum. (PACE 2010; 33:e114–e118)