bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Note on Comparing the Estimates of Models for Cluster-Correlated or Longitudinal Data with Binary or Ordinal Outcomes
Authors: Bauer Daniel J.
Published: September 2008

When using linear models for cluster-correlated or longitudinal data, a common modeling practice is to begin by fitting a relatively simple model and then to increase the model complexity in steps. New predictors might be added to the model, or a more complex covariance structure might be specified for the observations. When fitting models for binary or ordered-categorical outcomes, however, comparisons between such models are impeded by the implicit rescaling of the model estimates that takes place with the inclusion of new predictors and/or random effects. This paper presents an approach for putting the estimates on a common scale to facilitate relative comparisons between models fit to binary or ordinal outcomes. The approach is developed for both population-average and unit-specific models.
Comparison of In vitro Nanoparticles Uptake in Various Cell Lines and In vivo Pulmonary Cellular Transport in Intratracheally Dosed Rat Model
Authors: Lai Yurong , Chiang Po-Chang , Blom Jason D , Li Na , Shevlin Kimberly , Brayman Timothy G , Hu Yiding , Selbo Jon G , Hu LiangbiaoGeorge
Published: September 2008

In present study, the potential drug delivery of nanoformulations was validated via the comparison of cellular uptake of nanoparticles in various cell lines and in vivo pulmonary cellular uptake in intratracheally (IT) dosed rat model. Nanoparticles were prepared by a bench scale wet milling device and incubated with a series of cell lines, including Caco-2, RAW, MDCK and MDCK transfected MDR1 cells. IT dosed rats were examined for the pulmonary cellular uptake of nanoparticles. The processes of nanoparticle preparation did not alter the crystalline state of the material. The uptake of nanoparticles was observed most extensively in RAW cells and the least in Caco-2 cells. Efflux transporter P-gp did not prevent cell from nanoparticles uptake. The cellular uptake of nanoparticles was also confirmed in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid cells and in bronchiolar epithelial cells, type II alveolar epithelial cells in the intratracheally administrated rats. The nanoparticles uptake in MDCK, RAW cells and in vivo lung epithelial cells indicated the potential applications of nanoformulation for poorly soluble compounds. The observed limited direct uptake of nanoparticles in Caco-2 cells suggests that the improvement in oral bioavailability by particle size reduction is via increased dissolution rate rather than direct uptake.
Synthesis, Electrical Measurement, and Field Emission Properties of α-Fe2O3Nanowires
Authors: Hsu Li-Chieh , Li Yuan-Yao , Hsiao Chun-Yen
Published: September 2008

α-Fe2O3nanowires (NWs) were formed by the thermal oxidation of an iron film in air at 350 °C for 10 h. The rhombohedral structure of the α-Fe2O3NWs was grown vertically on the substrate with diameters of 8–25 nm and lengths of several hundred nm. It was found that the population density of the NWs per unit area (D
NWs) can be varied by the film thickness. The thicker the iron film, the more NWs were grown. The growth mechanism of the NWs is suggested to be a combination effect of the thermal oxidation rate, defects on the film, and selective directional growth. The electrical resistivity of a single NW with a length of 800 nm and a diameter of 15 nm was measured to be 4.42 × 103 Ωcm using conductive atomic force microscopy. The field emission characteristics of the NWs were studied using a two-parallel-plate system. A low turn–on field of 3.3 V/μm and a large current density of 10−3 A/cm2(under an applied field of about 7 V/μm) can be obtained using optimal factors ofD
NWsin the cathode.
Fabrication of Large Area Periodic Nanostructures Using Nanosphere Photolithography
Authors: Wu Wei , Dey Dibyendu , Memis Omer G , Katsnelson Alex , Mohseni Hooman
Published: September 2008

Large area periodic nanostructures exhibit unique optical and electronic properties and have found many applications, such as photonic band-gap materials, high dense data storage, and photonic devices. We have developed a maskless photolithography method—Nanosphere Photolithography (NSP)—to produce a large area of uniform nanopatterns in the photoresist utilizing the silica micro-spheres to focus UV light. Here, we will extend the idea to fabricate metallic nanostructures using the NSP method. We produced large areas of periodic uniform nanohole array perforated in different metallic films, such as gold and aluminum. The diameters of these nanoholes are much smaller than the wavelength of UV light used and they are very uniformly distributed. The method introduced here inherently has both the advantages of photolithography and self-assembled methods. Besides, it also generates very uniform repetitive nanopatterns because the focused beam waist is almost unchanged with different sphere sizes.
Nanoporous Silicified Phospholipids and Application to Controlled Glycolic Acid Release
Authors: Kang SangHwa , Lee HyeSun , Lee Jiho , Jeong Seongmin , Choi Jinsub , Lee SangCheon , Kim KyungJa , Chang JeongHo
Published: September 2008

This work demonstrates the synthesis and characterization of novel nanoporous silicified phospholipid bilayers assembled inorganic powders. The materials are obtained by silicification process with silica precursor at the hydrophilic region of phospholipid bilayers. This process involves the co-assembly of a chemically active phospholipids bilayer within the ordered porosity of a silica matrix and holds promise as a novel application for controlled drug release or drug containers with a high level of specificity and throughput. The controlled release application of the synthesized materials was achieved to glycolic acid, and obtained a zero-order release pattern due to the nanoporosity.
Design and Analysis of Nanotube-Based Memory Cells
Authors: Xiao Shaoping , Andersen David R , Yang Weixuan
Published: September 2008

In this paper, we proposed a nanoelectromechanical design as memory cells. A simple design contains a double-walled nanotube-based oscillator. Atomistic materials are deposed on the outer nanotube as electrodes. Once the WRITE voltages are applied on electrodes, the induced electromagnetic force can overcome the interlayer friction between the inner and outer tubes so that the oscillator can provide stable oscillations. The READ voltages are employed to indicate logic 0/1 states based on the position of the inner tube. A new continuum modeling is developed in this paper to analyze large models of the proposed nanoelectromechanical design. Our simulations demonstrate the mechanisms of the proposed design as both static and dynamic random memory cells.
Tocopherols in Soybean Seeds: Genetic Variation and Environmental Effects in Field‐Grown Crops
Authors: Britz Steven J. , Kremer Diane F. , Kenworthy William J.
Published: September 2008

Controlled environment studies show α‐tocopherol (αT) in soybean seeds increases several fold as a result of warmer temperature or drought during seed maturation, but total tocopherols (Ttot) stay approximately constant. To determine if natural variation in weather or climate affect T under field conditions, we analyzed soybean seeds grown at several locations in Maryland between 1999 and 2002. Weather was relatively normal during 1999–2001, whereas warmer temperatures and extreme drought were characteristic of 2002. Comparing 18 lines, there were small but significant differences in Ttot as well as 2‐ to 3‐fold differences in αT during 1999–2001. Seeds from locations on the Eastern Shore of Maryland (full season crops) had higher absolute and relative levels of αT compared to seeds from a (cooler) central Maryland location or seeds from a later planting (double crop) on the Eastern Shore. Effects of location or planting date were small compared to that of genetic line when considering the normal years 1999–2001. In 2002, however, several fold increases in αT/Ttot were observed in Maturity Group III and IV seeds, especially from full season crops grown at two locations on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. We conclude weather and climate are significant factors affecting soybean seed T content.
The association between neighbourhood socio‐economic status and the onset of chronic widespread pain: Results from the EPIFUND study
Authors: Davies Kelly A. , Silman Alan J. , Macfarlane Gary J. , Nicholl Barbara I. , Dickens Chris , Morriss Richard , Ray David , McBeth John
Published: September 2008

Background: Cross‐sectional studies have reported an inverse relationship between socio‐economic status and the prevalence of chronic widespread pain (CWP). However, the extent to which this relationship is explained by psychological factors is unknown. The aim of this study was to examine the hypothesis that socio‐economic status predicts the onset of CWP but that this relationship would be explained by psychological factors.

Methods: Subjects from three diverse socio‐economic areas were recruited into a population‐based prospective survey of pain. Subjects completed a questionnaire at baseline that assessed pain status and psychological factors and occupation. Fifteen months later subjects completed a follow‐up questionnaire which assessed pain status.

Results: A total of 3489 subjects were free of CWP at baseline and eligible for follow‐up, of whom 2782 (79.7%) participated. Of those, 281 (10%) subjects were classified as having new CWP. Logistic regression analysis revealed that compared to subjects from the most affluent socio‐economic area, those from the moderate and least affluent areas were respectively, 1.47 (95% CI: 1.08–2.01) and 1.35 (95% CI: 1.00–1.82) times more likely to have new CWP. However, in a stepwise multivariate logistic regression analysis, controlling for psychological factors, the relationship between new onset CWP and socio‐economic status was no longer evident.

Conclusions: This study has demonstrated that socio‐economic status is related to new onset CWP, but the association is explained by psychological factors. Understanding the factors underlying the association between socio‐economic status and pain should help to design intervention strategies which may reduce the burden of chronic pain in identified high risk population groups.
Prevalence and risk factors of neuropathic pain in survivors of myocardial infarction with pre‐diabetes and diabetes. The KORA Myocardial Infarction Registry
Authors: Ziegler Dan , Rathmann Wolfgang , Meisinger Christa , Dickhaus Thorsten , Mielck Andreas ,   For the KORA Study Group
Published: September 2008

The lowest glycemic threshold for and the risk factors associated with neuropathic pain have not been established. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and risk factors of neuropathic pain in survivors of myocardial infarction with diabetes, impaired glucose tolerance (IGT), impaired fasting glucose (IFG), normal glucose tolerance (NGT). Subjects aged 25–74 years with diabetes (n=214) and controls matched for age and sex (n=212) from the population‐based KORA (Cooperative Health Research in the Region of Augsburg) Myocardial Infarction Registry were assessed for neuropathic pain by the Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument using its pain‐relevant questions and an examination score cutpoint >2. An oral glucose tolerance test was performed in the controls. Among the controls, 61 (28.8%) had IGT (either isolated or combined with IFG), 70 (33.0%) had isolated IFG, and 81 had NGT. The prevalence of neuropathic pain was 21.0% in the diabetic subjects, 14.8% in those with IGT, 5.7% in those with IFG, and 3.7% in those with NGT (overall p<0.001). In the entire population studied (n=426), age, waist circumference, peripheral arterial disease (PAD), and diabetes were independent factors significantly associated with neuropathic pain, while in the diabetic group it was waist circumference, physical activity, and PAD (all p<0.05). In conclusion, the prevalence of neuropathic pain is relatively high among survivors of myocardial infarction with diabetes and IGT compared to those with isolated IFG and NGT. Associated cardiovascular risk factors including abdominal obesity and low physical activity may constitute targets to prevent neuropathic pain in this population.
Occurrence of myofascial pain in patients with possible carpal tunnel syndrome – A single‐blinded study
Authors: Qerama Erisela , Kasch Helge , Fuglsang‐Frederiksen Anders
Published: September 2008

Background: There exits some similarity between symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and myofascial pain related to trigger points (TPs) in the infraspinatus muscle.

Aim: The aim was to examine what proportion of patients referred with a clinical suspicion of CTS had myofascial pain in the infraspinatus muscles and how their occurrence was related to the outcome of nerve conduction studies (NCS).

Methods: We examined the occurrence of CTS and of TPs in infraspinatus muscles in a cohort of patients suspected for CTS and referred to the Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Aarhus University Hospital from October 2003 to February 2004. Patients underwent electrodiagnostic studies of the median and ulnar nerves. Additional tests were performed if necessary. Patients were examined for TPs by a blinded examiner immediately after NCS.

Results: We included 335 patients (202 females; 133 males, mean age 46).

Two hundred one patients (60%) had abnormal NCS indicating CTS. Fifteen patients (4%) had other electrodiagnostic abnormalities. One hundred nineteen patients (36%) had normal NCS. Forty nine percent (58 out of 119) of the subjects with normal NCS had TPs in the infraspinatus muscles whereas only 26% (53 out of 201) of the patients with abnormal NCS indicating CTS had TPs. Likewise, 26% (4 out of 15) of the patients with other electrodiagnostic abnormalities had TPs.

Conclusions: Approximately one third of patients referred with a clinical suspicion of CTS had TPs in the infraspinatus muscles. This occurrence was higher in the group with normal NCS than in the group with abnormal NCS indicating CTS. When CTS is suspected clinically, physicians must be aware of TPs in the infraspinatus muscles as a possible cause of the symptoms; thus, NCS are important in these patients.
The Depression Scale (DEPS) as a case finder for depression in various subgroups of primary care patients
Authors: Poutanen Outi , Koivisto Anna-Maija , Salokangas Raimo K.R.
Published: September 2008

Purpose

The quick and simple Depression Scale (DEPS) has been a popular self-rating depression scale in Finland for nearly 15 years. The purpose was to assess the validity of the DEPS in various subgroups of patients.

Materials and methods

Primary care patients, aged 18–64, completed a postal questionnaire including the DEPS. Of the 1643 patients all screen-positive subjects and every 10th screen-negative subject were invited for interview (the Present State Examination, PSE). Complete DEPS scores were available for 410 patients. They were grouped by gender, age, marital status, perceived physical health, basic education and the Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test (MAST) score. Separately for each subgroup, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses were done, sensitivity, specificity, area under the curve (AUC), predictive values and likelihood ratios were calculated, and Cronbach's α was estimated.

Results

The DEPS was valid in general, but best for patients with basic education longer than 9 years.

Discussion

The key statistical figures for the DEPS were comparable to the figures for other short self-rating scales.

Conclusion

The DEPS is a valid case finder for primary care patients in the age group 18–64 years, and especially suitable for more highly educated patients. Future studies comparing the DEPS with other simple depression rating scales are needed.
Folic acid in ruminant nutrition: a review
Authors: Ragaller Veronika , Hüther Liane , Lebzien Peter
Published: September 2008

Folic acid plays an essential role in DNA and methionine metabolism. Micro-organisms in the rumen can synthesise folates, but it has not been verified that these amounts are sufficient to achieve the best efficiency of dairy cows. However, the amount of folates synthesised in the rumen could possibly, to some extent, be affected by the forage:concentrate ratio. Degradation of orally supplemented folic acid in the rumen seems to be very high (about 97 %), as supplementation of folic acid hardly increases folate concentrations in the digesta at the duodenum. However, it must be considered that dietary supplements of folic acid higher than 0·5 mg/kg body weight increased serum folate concentrations in all available studies and milk folate concentrations in most studies. Additionally, milk production tended to be increased in some studies. Therefore, degradation of folic acid in the rumen may be overestimated as folates can be absorbed at the proximal duodenum. For future research it is necessary to consider the whole flow and the metabolic pathways of folates from the rumen to duodenum, blood, tissue, milk and transfer to calf to declare requirement values for cows. Consequently, the present review discusses current knowledge and emphasises areas for future research.
Attitudes toward genetic testing and personalised nutrition in a representative sample of European consumers
Authors: Stewart-Knox Barbara J. , Bunting Brendan P. , Gilpin Sarah , Parr Heather J. , Pinhão Silvia , Strain J. J. , de Almeida Maria D. V. , Gibney Mike
Published: September 2008

Negative consumer opinion poses a potential barrier to the application of nutrigenomic intervention. The present study has aimed to determine attitudes toward genetic testing and personalised nutrition among the European public. An omnibus opinion survey of a representative sample aged 14–55+ years (n 5967) took place in France, Italy, Great Britain, Portugal, Poland and Germany during June 2005 as part of the Lipgene project. A majority of respondents (66 %) reported that they would be willing to undergo genetic testing and 27 % to follow a personalised diet. Individuals who indicated a willingness to have a genetic test for the personalising of their diets were more likely to report a history of high blood cholesterol levels, central obesity and/or high levels of stress than those who would have a test only for general interest. Those who indicated that they would not have a genetic test were more likely to be male and less likely to report having central obesity. Individuals with a history of high blood cholesterol were less likely than those who did not to worry if intervention foods contained GM ingredients. Individuals who were aware that they had health problems associated with the metabolic syndrome appeared particularly favourable toward nutrigenomic intervention. These findings are encouraging for the future application of personalised nutrition provided that policies are put in place to address public concern about how genetic information is used and held.
The composition of mineral waters sourced from Europe and North America in respect to bone health: composition of mineral water optimal for bone
Authors: Wynn Emma , Raetz Eric , Burckhardt Peter
Published: September 2008

The consumption of mineral waters is increasing in industrialised countries. High intakes of Ca and other alkalising cations as well as a low acid intake are beneficial to bone. We examined which components of mineral waters are conditioning their Ca content and their alkalinising power, in order to define the optimal profile. European mineral waters were randomly selected on the Internet: 100 waters with less than 200 mg Ca/l (9·98 mEq/l) and fifty with more than 200 mg/l, all with complete data for SO4, P, Cl, Na, K, Mg and Ca, and most also for HCO3. For comparison, forty North American mineral waters were randomly chosen. The potential renal acid load (PRAL) was calculated for each mineral water. North American waters did not reveal significant results because of their low mineralisation. We performed correlations between all eight components in order to explore the properties of the mineral waters. In the European waters, twenty-six out of twenty-eight correlations showed aPvalue of ≤ 0·01. In waters with PRAL >0 (acidifying waters), PRAL was positively correlated with SO4, Ca, K and Mg (P < 0·001). In those with PRAL < 0 (alkalinising waters), PRAL was negatively correlated with HCO3, Na, Mg, Ca, K, Cl and SO4(P < 0·001). SO4and HCO3were not found together in high quantities in the same water for geochemical reasons. A high Ca content is associated with either a high SO4or a high HCO3content. SO4theoretically increases Ca excretion, while HCO3and low PRAL values are associated with positive effects on bone. Therefore, the best waters for bone health are rich in both HCO3and Ca, and by consequence low in SO4.
Almond seed wasp (Hymenoptera: Eurytomidae) sex pheromone: effect of trap type, trap position, blend ratio and time of the day on male attraction
Authors: Athanassiou C.G. , Kavallieratos N.G. , Mazomenos B.E.
Published: September 2008

Field trials were carried out in order to evaluate some of the factors affecting male response of the almond seed wasp, Eurytoma amygdali Enderlein, to traps baited with the alkadienes (Z,Z)-6,9-tricosadiene and (Z,Z)-6,9-pentacosadiene, the male attractant of this species. The trials were conducted in Latomia, Microthivae, Kanalia and Sykourion (Thessaly, Central Greece) during the 2004 growing season. In all regions, captures in traps baited with a 7:3 ratio of the above blend significantly and positively correlated with male emergence from infested almonds that had been placed in cages in the experimental fields. Traps baited with the 7:3 pheromone ratio were significantly more effective in capturing males than traps baited with the 1:1 ratio, supporting the hypothesis that (Z,Z)-6,9-tricosadiene is the main component of this attractant. Of four trap types tested, Rebel and Lasiotraps attracted significantly more males than Delta and Funnel traps. Height had no effect on trap efficiency; however, males were captured earlier in the day in traps placed 2.3 m above grown than in traps placed 1.3 m above grown. Most male activity was recorded between 10 and 12 h, but captures were continuously recorded during the entire monitoring interval from 6 to 17 h.
Soil adaptation of transgenic in vitro carrot plantlets
Authors: MIKSCHOFSKY H. , MANN G. , BROER I.
Published: September 2008

Adapting in vitro transgenic carrots to soil is the most crucial step preceding the field investigation of transgenic carrots. A low proportion of plants, around 0·20, acclimatize to soil (Hardegger & Sturm 1998) and thus prohibit the generation of high-expression carrot lines. In the present paper, a protocol for an efficient soil transfer is presented and the impact of carrot cultivar, soil substrate, tissue culture, and transformation process on transfer process is analysed. Somatic embryo germinants of Daucus carota cv. Rote Riesen 2 and Lobbericher Gelbe Futtermoehre showed a tremendous survival proportion – up to 1·00 – when transferred to their optimal soil substrate: sandy and loamy soil, with low content of macro and micro elements and a pH of 5·8. By optimizing the conditions described here, the proportion of soil acclimatized transgenic carrot plants of D. carota Lobbericher Gelbe Futtermoehre was increased from 0·1 to 0·87, and for the cultivar Rote Riesen from 0·09 to 0·67.
Phylogenetics of Trachylina (Cnidaria: Hydrozoa) with new insights on the evolution of some problematical taxa
Authors: Collins Allen G. , Bentlage Bastian , Lindner Alberto , Lindsay Dhugal , Haddock Steven H.D. , Jarms Gerhard , Norenburg Jon L. , Jankowski Thomas , Cartwright Paulyn
Published: September 2008

Some of the most interesting and enigmatic cnidarians are classified within the hydrozoan subclass Trachylina. Despite being relatively depauperate in species richness, the clade contains four taxa typically accorded ordinal status: Actinulida, Limnomedusae, Narcomedusae and Trachymedusae. We bring molecular data (mitochondrial 16S and nuclear small and large subunit ribosomal genes) to bear on the question of phylogenetic relationships within Trachylina. Surprisingly, we find that a diminutive polyp form,Microhydrula limopsicola(classified within Limnomedusae) is actually a previously unknown life stage of a species of Stauromedusae. Our data confirm that the interstitial formHalammohydrasp. (Actinulida) is derived from holopelagic direct developing ancestors, likely within the trachymedusan family Rhopalonematidae. Trachymedusae is shown to be diphyletic, suggesting that the polyp stage has been lost independently at least two times within trachyline evolution. Narcomedusae is supported as a monophyletic group likely also arising from trachymedusan ancestors. Finally, some data, albeit limited, suggest that some trachyline species names refer to cryptic species that have yet to be sorted taxonomically.
Some poorly knownAsterocheresspecies (Siphonostomatoida: Asterocheridae) deposited in the Natural History Museum of London
Authors: Bandera Eugenia , Mercedes Conradi
Published: September 2008

A total of seven poorly known species of the genusAsterocheres, the largest genus of the family Asterocheridae, are redescribed based on material deposited in the Natural History Museum of London. Among the material available, there were specimens of both sexes ofA. bulbosus, A. ellisiandA. rotundus; the dissected holotypes forA. hongkongensis, A. indicusandA. ovaliswhich have no other specimens; and only cotype ofA. micheli, turned out to be lost. Some taxonomically important appendages of these species are described and illustrated for the first time. Furthermore, discrepancies have been observed in: (1) the general shape of the body; (2) the antennule segmentation; (3) the omission of some elements in various oral appendages; and (4) the segmentation of the mandibular palp. These redescribed species were then compared with their closest congeners.
First description of spawning in a deep water loliginid squid,Loligo forbesi(Cephalopoda: Myopsida)
Authors: Pham Christopher K. , Carreira Gilberto P. , Porteiro Filipe M. , Gonçalves João M. , Cardigos Frederico , Martins Helen R.
Published: September 2008

Despite being an exploited and economically important species, little is known about the reproductive behaviour ofLoligo forbesi. During a captive trial performed in a closed seawater system in the Azores, three spawning events were directly witnessed. An account of their main behavioural aspects is given. A number of behavioural components are described for the first time in this species: ‘pair formation’, ‘mate guarding’, ‘egg holding’, ‘egg touching’, ‘white arms’, ‘red accessory nidamental glands’, ‘accentuated testis’, and ‘jockeying and parrying’. The chromatic, locomotor and postural components were very similar to other coastal loliginids observed on spawning grounds. From egg masses recovered on octopus traps, we show that in the Azores spawning activity occurs at least between 25 and 144 m, but greater depths might be expected. We suggest that this squid preferentially deposits egg masses on hard structures probably hiding them in cracks and crevices of volcanic substrata. The existence of spawning aggregations is supported by several factors: (i) these spawning grounds may coincide with the fishing spots, where the exploitation seasonally takes place, given that most individuals caught by fishermen are usually mature (more than 80%); and (ii) mate guarding and jockeying/parrying by males was observed, which is a common feature of spawning aggregation areas, where sperm competition occurs. Furthermore, our results, combined with available published and non-published data further confirmL. forbesias an intermittent spawner. We estimate that throughout their short life cycle, females ofL. forbesiare able to perform up to six spawning events, each composed of an average of ≈2300 eggs.
Description ofOncholaimus moanaesp. nov. (Nematoda: Oncholaimidae), with notes on feeding ecology based on isotopic and fatty acid composition
Authors: Leduc Daniel
Published: September 2008

A new free-living marine nematode species,Oncholaimus moanaesp. nov., is described from intertidal fine sand in southern New Zealand.Oncholaimus moanaesp. nov. can be distinguished from other species of the genus by the presence of a pre-cloacal papilla bearing four pairs of short, stout spines, a post-cloacal papilla, long (>70 μm) spicules, and a demanian system with two openings situated laterally at level of uvette. The δ13C signature ofO. moanaesp. nov. suggests that benthic microalgae are the main carbon source for this species, but an elevated δ15N signature suggests predatory feeding habits. The fatty acid composition ofO. moanaesp. nov. is rich in highly unsaturated fatty acids, which are likely to originate from heterotrophic protists (e.g. ciliates). The data obtained in this study suggest, for the first time, that marine nematodes can be a high quality food source (i.e. rich in highly unsaturated fatty acids) to predators. Large nematodes living near or at the sediment surface, in particular, may represent an important trophic link between heterotrophic protists and higher trophic levels in marine sediments.
Metazoan parasites of freshwater cyprinid fish (Leuciscus cephalus): testing biogeographical hypotheses of species diversity
Authors: SEIFERTOVÁ M. , VYSKOČILOVÁ M. , MORAND S. , ŠIMKOVÁ A.
Published: September 2008

The diversity and similarity of parasite communities is a result of many determinants widely considered in parasite ecology. In this study, the metazoan parasite communities of 15 chub populations (Leuciscus cephalus) were sampled across a wide geographical range. Three hypotheses of biogeographical gradients in species diversity were tested: (1) latitudinal gradient, (2) a ‘favourable centre’ versus ‘local oasis’ model, and (3) decay of similarity with distance. We found that the localities in marginal zones of chub distribution showed lower parasite species richness and diversity. A latitudinal gradient, with increasing abundance of larvae of Diplostomum species, was observed. There was a general trend for a negative relationship between relative prevalence or abundance and the distance from the locality with maximum prevalence or abundance for the majority of parasite species. However, statistical support for a ‘favourable centre’ model was found only for total abundance of Monogenea and for larvae of Diplostomum species. The phylogenetic relatedness of host populations inferred an important role when the ‘favourable centre’ model was tested. Testing of the hypothesis of ‘decay of similarity with geographical distance’ showed that phylogenetic distance was more important as a determinant of similarity in parasite communities than geographical distance between host populations.
Induction of apoptosis in host cells: a survival mechanism forLeishmaniaparasites?
Authors: GETTI G. T. , CHEKE R. A. , HUMBER D. P.
Published: September 2008

Leishmaniaparasites invade host macrophages, causing infections that are either limited to skin or spread to internal organs. In this study, 3 species causing cutaneous leishmaniasis,L. major,L. aethiopicaandL. tropica, were tested for their ability to interfere with apoptosis in host macrophages in 2 different lines of human monocyte-derived macrophages (cell lines THP-1 and U937) and the results confirmed in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). All 3 species induced early apoptosis 48 h after infection (expression of phosphatidyl serine on the outer membrane). There were significant increases in the percentage of apoptotic cells both for U937 and PBMC following infection with each of the 3 species. Early apoptotic events were confirmed by mitochondrial membrane permeabilization detection and caspase activation 48 and 72 h after infection. Moreover, the percentage of infected THP-1 and U937 macrophages increased significantly (up to 100%) following treatment with an apoptosis inducer. Since phosphatidyl serine externalization on apoptosing cells acts as a signal for engulfment by macrophages, induction of apoptosis in the parasitized cells could actively participate in spreading the infection. In summary, parasite-containing apoptotic bodies with intact membranes could be released and phagocytosed by uninfected macrophages.
Intracellular calcium levels in thePlasmodium bergheiookinete
Authors: SIDÉN-KIAMOS I. , LOUIS C.
Published: September 2008

Ookinetes are the motile and invasive stages ofPlasmodiumparasites in the mosquito host. Here we explore the role of intracellular Ca2+in ookinete survival and motility as well as in the formation of oocystsin vitroin the rodent malaria parasitePlasmodium berghei. Treatment with the Ca2+ionophore A23187 induced death of the parasite, an effect that could be prevented if the ookinetes were co-incubated with insect cells before incubation with the ionophore. Treatment with the intracellular calcium chelator BAPTA/AM resulted in increased formation of oocystsin vitro. Calcium imaging in the ookinete using fluorescent calcium indicators revealed that the purified ookinetes have an intracellular calcium concentration in the range of 100 nm. Intracellular calcium levels decreased substantially when the ookinetes were incubated with insect cells and their motility was concomitantly increased. Our results suggest a pleiotropic role for intracellular calcium in the ookinete.
Ecological and genetic determinants of multiple infection and aggregation in a microbial host-parasite system
Authors: FELS D. , VIGNON M. , KALTZ O.
Published: September 2008

The number of parasites colonizing a host (termed ‘multiple infection’) is an important determinant of host-parasite interactions. In theory, multiple infection is determined by random mass action in genetically and spatially homogeneous populations of host and parasite. In real populations, deviations from these assumptions may strongly influence levels of multiple infection. We carried out inoculation experiments in microcosms of the freshwater protozoanParamecium caudatumand its bacterial parasiteHolospora undulata. Increasing parasite dose produced higher levels of (multiple) infection; more susceptible host genotypes also were more multiply infected. An overall pattern of parasite aggregation (excess of uninfected individuals and of individuals carrying larger numbers of parasites) indicated deviations from random mass-action transmission. Homogenizing spatial distributions of parasite and host in our microcosms did not affect aggregation, whereas aggregation was more pronounced in old than in new host clones. Thus, variation in susceptibility may arise over time within clonal populations. When sequentially inoculated, already established infections increased the probability of additional infection in generally resistant host clones, but decreased it in more susceptible clones. Hence, the role of multiple infection as a driver of epidemiological or evolutionary processes may vary among populations, depending on their precise genetic composition or infection history.
Incidence and outcomes of bulimia nervosa: a nationwide population-based study
Authors: Keski-Rahkonen A. , Hoek H. W. , Linna M. S. , Raevuori A. , Sihvola E. , Bulik C. M. , Rissanen A. , Kaprio J.
Published: September 2008

Background

Little is known about the epidemiology of bulimia nervosa outside clinical settings. We report the incidence, prevalence and outcomes of bulimia nervosa using for the first time a nationwide study design.

Method

To assess the incidence and natural course and outcomes of DSM-IV bulimia nervosa among women from the general population, women (n=2881) from the 1975–79 birth cohorts of Finnish twins were screened for lifetime eating disorders using a two-stage procedure consisting of a questionnaire screen and the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV (SCID). Clinical recovery was defined as 1-year abstinence from bingeing and purging combined with a body mass index (BMI) ⩾19 kg/m2.

Results

The lifetime prevalence of DSM-IV bulimia nervosa was 2.3%; 76% of the women suffered from its purging subtype and 24% from the non-purging subtype. The incidence rate of bulimia nervosa was 300/100000 person-years at the peak age of incidence, 16–20 years, and 150/100000 at 10–24 years. The 5-year clinical recovery rate was 55.0%. Less than a third of the cases had been detected by health-care professionals; detection did not influence outcome. After clinical recovery from bulimia nervosa, the mean levels of residual psychological symptoms gradually decreased over time but many women continued to experience significantly more body image problems and psychosomatic symptoms than never-ill women.

Conclusions

Few women with bulimia nervosa are recognized in health-care settings. Symptoms of bulimia are relatively long-standing, and recovery is gradual. Many clinically recovered women experience residual psychological symptoms after attaining abstinence from bingeing and purging.
Impact of early adolescent psychiatric and personality disorder on long-term physical health: a 20-year longitudinal follow-up study
Authors: Chen H. , Cohen P. , Crawford T. N. , Kasen S. , Guan B. , Gorden K.
Published: September 2008

Background

Evidence regarding the long-term separate and combined impact of adolescent psychiatric disorder and personality disorder (PD) on physical health is absent.

Method

A total of 736 people randomly selected in childhood were contacted for home or telephone interviews four times over 20 years. DSM Axis I disorders and Axis II PDs were assessed at mean age 13.7 years in 1983 and physical health was assessed in 1985–1986, 1991–1994 and 2001–2004.

Results

Comparisons were made between 506 adolescents without Axis I disorder or PD and adolescents with Axis I disorder or PD or both. Adolescents with an Axis I disorder (n=150) had significantly higher odds of pain and physical illness and poorer physical health. Adolescents with a PD (n=149) had higher odds of pain and physical illness and poorer physical health and a more rapid decline in physical health. In addition, the 81 participants with an Axis I disorder without co-morbid PD had poorer physical health, but this effect did not reach statistical significance, whereas the 80 participants with a PD but no Axis I disorder reported significantly more pain and more rapid decline in physical health. However, the 69 participants with co-morbid Axis I disorder and PD had the highest rates of pain and physical illness and the worst physical health.

Conclusions

Co-morbid PD accounted for many of the associations of adolescent Axis I disorder with physical health over the ensuing two decades. Co-morbid adolescent Axis I disorder and PD represent a particularly high risk for physical health.
Memory impairment in young women at increased risk of depression: influence of cortisol and 5-HTT genotype
Authors: Mannie Z. N. , Barnes J. , Bristow G. C. , Harmer C. J. , Cowen P. J.
Published: September 2008

Background

Memory deficits are common in depressed patients and may persist after recovery. The aim of the present study was to determine whether memory impairments were present in young women at increased familial risk of depression and whether memory performance was related either to cortisol secretion or to allelic variation in the promoter region of the serotonin transporter gene (5-HTT).

Method

Young women (n=35, age range 16–21 years) with no personal history of depression but with a depressed parent (FH+) carried out the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT). They also provided samples for the measurement of waking salivary cortisol and for 5-HTT genotyping. An age-matched control group of women (n=31) with no family history of depression were similarly studied.

Results

The FH+ participants had decreased immediate recall and recognition memory compared to controls. The impairment in recall, but not recognition, correlated negatively with increased cortisol secretion in FH+ subjects. There was no significant effect of 5-HTT allelic status on either memory or waking cortisol secretion.

Conclusions

Impairments in declarative memory are present in young women at increased genetic risk of depression and may be partly related to increased cortisol secretion. Further studies are needed to explore the neural mechanisms underlying the memory impairments and whether they predict the development of clinical illness.
Space, scale and Just War: meeting the challenge of humanitarian intervention and trans-national terrorism
Authors: WILLIAMS JOHN
Published: September 2008

This article contributes to current debates about Just War by analysing an insufficiently recognised problem with the way Just War theorists have responded to the two principal challenges surrounding the ethics of violence in international relations since the end of the Cold War – humanitarian intervention and the ‘global war on terror’. The problem focuses on strongly embedded assumptions that exist in contemporary Just War debates about the nature and meaning of territory. The article argues that Just War needs to engage more systematically with challenges to dominant ‘Westphalian’ framings of territory, space and scale in order to contribute more effectively to important ethical debates about the use of violence in international relations.
An uncertain trumpet: reason, anarchy and Cold War diplomacy in the thought of Raymond Aron
Authors: DAVIS REED
Published: September 2008

Near the end of his career, Raymond Aron explained that he had never ceased to ‘think or dream or hope – in the light of the idea of Reason – for a humanized society’, a hope that extended to the conduct of international affairs as well. The purpose of this essay is to examine how Aron’s liberalism manifested itself in his theorising about international relations and in some of his less abstract diplomatic recommendations. In tracing the effects of Aron’s fundamental theoretical commitments on his more concrete policy analyses, we examine how Aron’s liberalism affected his approach to two of the most contentious issues in French foreign policy, namely, the decolonisation of Algeria and the creation of the force de frappe, France’s nuclear weapons programme. We argue that the tensions and contradictions in Aron’s foreign policy prescriptions have their origins in his ambivalence over the source and character of human reason.
A pluralistic approach to global poverty
Authors: KNIGHT CARL
Published: September 2008

A large proportion of humankind today lives in avoidable poverty. This article examines whether affluent individuals and governments have moral duties to change this situation. It is maintained that an alternative to the familiar accounts of transdomestic distributive justice and personal ethics put forward by writers such as Peter Singer, John Rawls, and Thomas Pogge is required, since each of these accounts fails to reflect the full range of relevant considerations. A better account would give some weight to overall utility, the condition of the worst off, and individual responsibility. This approach provides robust support to global poverty alleviation.
The making of an international Convention: culture and free trade in a global era
Authors: MOGHADAM VALENTINE M. , ELVEREN DILEK
Published: September 2008

In October 2005, UNESCO’s General Conference adopted the Convention on the Protection of the Diversity of Cultural Contents and Artistic Expressions. The intense debates around the Convention, the defeat of the US position, and the compromises reached illustrate the shifting nature of global politics and the importance of the ‘culture question’ in global governance, but also confirm a hierarchy in the mandates of intergovernmental organisations. In this article we describe the making of this particular international convention, what we define as the ‘liberal’ versus the ‘culturalist’ positions among UNESCO’s member-state delegations, and the relevance of world polity and world-systems theories with respect to the international order. The article draws on our observations, a close reading of relevant UNESCO documents, and interviews with UNESCO officials and delegates.
Taking sovereignty out of this world: space weapons and empire of the future
Authors: DUVALL RAYMOND , HAVERCROFT JONATHAN
Published: September 2008

Programs to deploy weapons in orbital space have important implications for international relations. In this paper, we analyze the constitutive logic of three modes of space weaponization currently being pursued by the United States – space-based missile defense, space control, and force application from orbital space. We show that these technologies of killing, when bundled together, constitute a new form of centralized sovereign power in a context of de-territorialized sovereignty. This is a new type of international political society, which we call empire of the future, distinct from and more ominous than the de-centralized form of Empire theorized by Hardt and Negri and the modern expression of classical hegemony now widely debated in discussions of putative American empire.
The ‘value’ of positive security
Authors: ROE PAUL
Published: September 2008

This article seeks to revise the concept of Positive Security. Although largely neglected by the existing Security Studies literature, Bill McSweeney’s work otherwise represents a significant contribution in this regard. The author argues, however, that although of great value, McSweeney’s positive security formulation is unduly restrictive in terms of the referent object and to the sectors of security it is applicable to, and cannot unproblematically be equated to ontological security, as McSweeney’s work tends to do. Employing Graham Smith’s notion of a ‘generic’ security conception, and placing positive security more firmly in the peace studies tradition, the author suggests rather that a revised concept be predicated on the defence of ‘just’ values.
The pollination ecology of two species of Parkia (Mimosaceae) in southern Thailand
Authors: Bumrungsri Sara , Harbit Andrew , Benzie Charles , Carmouche Kristine , Sridith Kitichate , Racey Paul
Published: September 2008

Although the floral traits ofParkiaconform to the bat-pollination syndrome, many visitors other than bats have been observed at their flowers. Some chiropterophilous plants are also pollinated by other animals; the syndrome is therefore best regarded as a hypothesis for which field observations and pollination experiments are required. The present study aimed, for the first time, to determine the breeding system of the economically important canopy trees,Parkia speciosaandP. timoriana, and to identify their pollinators. Pollination experiments carried out in Trang and Songkhla Provinces, in 28 trees ofP. speciosaand fourP. timorianaindicated that they are self incompatible. Open pollination resulted in the highest fruit set (average 60–67% of inflorescences per tree) although this was not significantly different from hand-crossed pollination (48–60%). Insect pollination resulted in fruit set in only 12% ofP. speciosainflorescences. Fruit bats, mainlyEonycteris spelaea, visit flowering plants continuously from dusk till after midnight. Nocturnal and diurnal insects (moths and stingless bees respectively) visit capitula, mostly at the nectar zone. Nectarivorous bats are the most effective pollinator forP. speciosaandP. timoriana. The fact that populations ofE. spelaeaappear to be declining throughout their distribution is therefore a matter of increasing concern.