bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Irish Conservative Perspective on the Defence of the Church of Ireland, 1865–1868
Authors: SHIELDS ANDREW
Published: February 2007

This article provides an analysis of the range of arguments used by senior members of the Irish Conservative party to defend the Established Church of Ireland from 1865 to 1868. The position of the Anglican Church in Ireland came under increasing threat following the death of Lord Palmerston, the British Prime Minister and the leader of the British Liberal party, in October 1865. Throughout his career, Palmerston, who had close connections to Ireland, had been a staunch defender of the privileges of the Church of Ireland. The first section of this article looks at the historical context in which this attack on its privileged position in Ireland arose. The second part traces some of the key arguments which leading members of the Irish Conservative party used in their defence of the Established Church. The final part of the paper considers some of the divisions which existed within the Conservative party, both in Britain and in Ireland, on the question of the future status of the Church of Ireland and at the effects that these divisions had in weakening its case against it.
REASONS, CAUSES, AND CONTRASTS
Authors: DICKENSON JASON
Published: February 2007

Abstract:  The standard argument for the causal theory of action is “Davidson's Challenge”: explain the connection between reasons and actions without appealing to the idea that reasons cause actions. I argue that this is an argument to the best contrastive explanation. After examining the nature of contrastive explanation in detail, I show that the causalist does not yet have the best explanation. The best explanation would appeal further to the motivational strength of reasons. Finally, I show how this undermines the argument for causalism, since noncausalists, too, can meet Davidson's Challenge by appealing to motivational strength to explain the cases at issue.
A THICK REALIST CONSEQUENCE OF WRIGHT'S MINIMALISM
Authors: MORETTI LUCA
Published: February 2007

Abstract:  According to Wright's minimalism, a notion of truth neutral with respect to realism and antirealism can be built out of the notion of warranted assertibility and a set of a priori platitudes among which the Equivalence Schema has a prominent role. Wright believes that the debate about realism and antirealism will be properly and fruitfully developed if both parties accept the conceptual framework of minimalism. In this paper, I show that this conceptual framework commits the minimalist to the realist thesis that there are mind‐independent propositions; with the consequence that minimalism is not neutral to realism and antirealism. I suggest that Wright could avert this conclusion if he rejected the customary interpretation of the Equivalence Schema according to which this Schema applies to propositions. This would however render minimalism unpalatable to philosophers who welcome the traditional reading of the Equivalence Schema and believe that propositions are bearers of truth.
CONSEQUENTIALIZING MORAL THEORIES
Authors: PORTMORE DOUGLAS W.
Published: February 2007

Abstract: To consequentialize a non‐consequentialist theory, take whatever considerations that the non‐consequentialist theory holds to be relevant to determining the deontic statuses of actions and insist that those considerations are relevant to determining the proper ranking of outcomes. In this way, the consequentialist can produce an ordering of outcomes that when combined with her criterion of rightness yields the same set of deontic verdicts that the non‐consequentialist theory yields. In this paper, I argue that any plausible non‐consequentialist theory can be consequentialized. I explain the motivation for the consequentializing project and defend it against recent criticisms by Mark Schroeder and others.
CONTEXTUALISM AND WARRANTED ASSERTION
Authors: STONE JIM
Published: February 2007

Abstract:  Contextualists offer “high‐low standards” practical cases to show that a variety of knowledge standards are in play in different ordinary contexts. These cases show nothing of the sort, I maintain. However Keith DeRose gives an ingenious argument that standards for knowledge do go up in high‐stakes cases. According to the knowledge account of assertion (Kn), only knowledge warrants assertion. Kn combined with the context sensitivity of assertability yields contextualism about knowledge. But is Kn correct? I offer a rival account of warranted assertion and argue that it beats Kn as a response to the “knowledge” version of Moore's Paradox.
Against the Tide: Gendered Prejudice and Disadvantage in Engineering
Authors: Küskü Fatma , Özbilgin Mustafa , Özkale Lerzan
Published: February 2007

Although a balance has been achieved in the overall numbers of female and male students in higher education in the industrialized countries, vertical sex segregation has remained high as male academics and students continued to outnumber their female counterparts internationally. Gender representation is only one façade of gendered disadvantage in engineering, as complex forms of gendered disadvantage occur in social, cultural, psychological and economic layers of life, where women engineering students find themselves swimming against the tide of prejudice. This article draws on comparative and historical data, and a qualitative study with interviews and a questionnaire survey which generated 603 completed responses from female and male engineering students in Turkey. It seeks to reveal the complex and layered nature of gendered prejudice levelled against female engineering students. The findings suggest that linear formulations of gendered prejudice and disadvantage in engineering study are insufficient to account for the complexity of influences on career choice and their concomitant gendered outcomes.
Young Travellers and the Children's Fund: some practical notes on an experimental image‐based research project
Authors: Dean Charlotte
Published: February 2007

The paper reflects on how photography was used during a small piece of mixed methods qualitative research with some young Travellers and their families. The context for the study was ‘Every Child Matters’ and the accompanying push aimed to include groups considered as marginalised, such as young Travellers, in mainstream educational provision, as well as to listen to children and involve them in decision‐making about service provision and its evaluation. Photography was used experimentally as a kind of participatory methodology to engage young Travellers in the formative evaluation of a Children's Fund project that aimed to increase their participation in formal and informal learning activities. The account discusses some of the outcomes of using the image‐based methodology, as well as some of the limitations and dilemmas that emerged.
The identity of SENCos: insights through images
Authors: Pearson Sue , Ralph Sue
Published: February 2007

Stimulated by special educational needs co‐ordinators’ (SENCos) reactions to a published image, the researchers used photovoice methodology to explore SENCos’ images of themselves in relation to the perceptions of three groups of their colleagues: senior management team, teachers and teaching assistants. The analysis of the images involved the application of Activity Theory, which has the capacity to illuminate and explore the social context.

The results demonstrate the complexity of the role of the SENCo and the need to negotiate different perceptions. The authors argue the case for policies and procedure to fully take into account these differences. The adoption of this methodology helped to provide a deeper understanding of these issues.
Enhancing the contribution of visual methods to inclusive education
Authors: Prosser Jon , Loxley Andrew
Published: February 2007

This paper examines the use of visual methods in studies of inclusive education. Visual methods have been applied to/with pupils with special educational needs (SEN) in the past but the application has tended to be outside rather than inside schools. We argue that understanding contextual reflexivity is important if visual methods are to be successfully adapted to meet the needs of inclusive research. A case study is used to provide an insight into the strengths, weaknesses and difficulties of mixed method visual research. The final section of the paper explores potential applications, strategies and techniques for including visual methods in inclusivity research.
Contribution of Pseudomonas mendocina and Glomus intraradices to aggregate stabilization and promotion of biological fertility in rhizosphere soil of lettuce plants under field conditions
Authors: Kohler J. , Caravaca F. , Carrasco L. , Roldán A.
Published: February 2007

A field‐plot experiment was undertaken to compare the effect of inorganic fertilizer with that of inoculation with an arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus, Glomus intraradices, or with a plant‐growth‐promoting rhizobacterium, Pseudomonas mendocina, alone or in combination with inorganic fertilizer, on plant growth and nutrient uptake by lettuce. The influence of the microbial inoculation treatments on soil physical, biochemical and biological properties was also assessed. Two months after planting, fertilizer and inoculation with G. intraradices or P. mendocina had significantly increased shoot and root biomass and foliar nutrient contents (P, Fe). The inoculation with G. intraradices or P. mendocina both increased the soil water‐soluble carbohydrates and the percentage of stable aggregates. In this study, we provide the first evidence of the beneficial effect of a plant‐growth‐promoting rhizobacterium on soil aggregate stabilization under field conditions. Only inoculation with P. mendocina had a significant effect on the dehydrogenase and phosphatase activities, 21 and 89%, respectively, compared with the control. Inorganic fertilization alone did not increase aggregate stability or enzyme activities in soil, even though this treatment produced the largest increases in mass of lettuce.
Nitrous oxide, methane and ammonia emissions following slurry spreading on grassland
Authors: Rodhe L. , Pell M. , Yamulki S.
Published: February 2007

In Sweden, 90% of ammonia (NH3) emissions to the atmosphere originate from agriculture, predominantly from animal manure handling. It is well known that incorporation of manure into soil can reduce NH3 emissions after spreading. However, there is a risk of increased nitrous oxide (N2O) and methane (CH4) emissions caused by bacterial activity and limited oxygen availability under these conditions. A full‐scale injector was developed and evaluated in a field experiment on grassland. Cattle slurry was either injected in closed slots 5 cm below ground or band spread on the soil surface above the crop canopy at a rate of 25 t ha−1. In a control treatment, no slurry was applied. During a 5‐day period after application, NH3 emissions were measured using an equilibrium concentration method. Gas samples for estimating CH4 and N2O emissions were also collected during 7 weeks following slurry application. Injection in closed slots resulted in no detectable NH3 emissions. After band spreading, however, NH3 emissions corresponded to nearly 40% of the total ammoniacal nitrogen in the applied slurry. The injection of slurry gave rise to a broad peak of N2O emissions during the first 3 weeks after application. In total, for the measuring period, N2O emissions corresponded to 0.75 kg N ha−1. Band spreading resulted in only a very small N2O release of about 0.2 kg N ha−1 during the same period. Except for the first sampling occasion, the soil was predominantly a sink for CH4 in all the treatments. The use of the injector without slurry application reduced grass yield during unfavourable growing conditions. In conclusion, shallow injection in closed slots seems to be a promising technique to reduce negative environmental impacts from NH3 emissions with a limited release of N2O and CH4.
Observations on the economic manufacture quantity model with learning and forgetting
Authors: Jaber Mohamad Y. , Guiffrida Alfred L.
Published: February 2007

The economic order (manufacture) quantity model with learning and forgetting has attracted the attention of researchers since the 1960s. All the models developed have limitations, of which two will be addressed in this article. First, the models found in the literature do not address the problem of when the learning exponent b approaches or exceeds the value 1, where these models are mathematically invalid for the special cases of b=1 and 2, and not investigated for the cases 1<b<2 and b>2. Second, the models found in the literature assume that the holding cost per unit is fixed even though the unit production cost is decreasing because of learning. This limitation would suggest producing in smaller lot‐sizes than their optimal values. Mathematical models are developed, and existing learning models are revised to overcome these limitations. Numerical examples are presented with results discussed.
Determination of cutoff time for express courier services: a genetic algorithm approach
Authors: Ko Chang Seong , Min Hokey , Ko Hyun Jeung
Published: February 2007

As the result of an explosive growth in e‐tailing, telemarketing, and television home‐shopping industries, the demand for the direct shipment of purchased goods by express couriers has increased over the last several years. The success of an express courier service often depends heavily on the direct marketing firm's ability to extend its cutoff time (deadline) for direct home deliveries coordinated by service centers near customers. Such an extension of cutoff time, however, may prolong consolidation holding time at the consolidation terminal and subsequently disrupt the timely delivery of products to customers. To make a trade‐off between cutoff time extension and delivery delays, we propose an integer programming model and its genetic algorithm solution procedure that allows express couriers, such as UPS, FedEx, and DHL, to maximize their profit generated by direct home deliveries. To demonstrate the practicality and efficiency of the proposed model and solution procedure, we conducted a case study involving an express courier in Korea.
NAFTA supply chains: facilities location and logistics
Authors: Robinson Anne G. , Bookbinder James H.
Published: February 2007

North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), the free‐trade agreement between Canada, Mexico and the United States, has caused North American companies to consider inclusion of Mexico in their supply chain. The lower Mexican wages may offset the additional transportation costs; capital‐intensive operations are preferably still done in the United States or Canada. With a consumer base focused in the United States, can an organisation leverage the benefits of NAFTA to their individual advantage? This paper aims to show how, through a real‐world example, overall supply chain costs (total system costs of inventory, transportation and facilities) can be minimised under those circumstances.

We formulate and solve a mixed‐integer programming model to find the optimal supply chain for Tectrol Inc., a manufacturer of power supplies. In the first case, components produced in Canada undergo final assembly in the United States, followed by distribution there. The second case is a ‘NAFTA’ supply chain: the Canadian components are converted to sub‐assemblies in Mexico, processed in finishing plants across the US border, then shipped through distribution centres to the final customer.

Model solutions indicate in each instance where to locate finishing plants and distribution centres, and how many of each there should be. Results provide Tectrol (hence other manufacturers) some general guidelines on distribution and supply chain decisions in the NAFTA context.
THE TREASURE OF GUARRAZAR: TRACING THE GOLD SUPPLIES IN THE VISIGOTHIC IBERIAN PENINSULA*
Authors: GUERRA M. F. , CALLIGARO T. , PEREA A.
Published: February 2007

The treasure of Guarrazar, found in the 19th century in Spain, is the most important illustration of the high level of Visigothic jewellery in the Iberian Peninsula. The votive crowns and crosses of this treasure are an arrangement of pierced gold in a Byzantine–Germanic style, decorated with emeralds, garnets, sapphires and other materials. In order to establish the provenance of the gold, we analysed a group of 46 minute samples from the most important pieces kept in Spain for major and trace elements. The combination of PIXE and PIGE with an external 3 MeV proton µ‐beam was used to analyse the samples. Considering the gold sources cited by Pliny the Elder and the composition of contemporary Visigothic coins, we suggest the exploitation of south Iberian mines. Using the same set‐up, we complemented these results with the analysis of 11 emeralds inlaid in items from the Guarrazar jewellery that is kept in France. We suggest the use of European sources unknown to the Romans for these gemstones.
A NEW DATING METHOD FOR HIGH‐CALCIUM ARCHAEOLOGICAL GLASSES BASED UPON SURFACE‐WATER DIFFUSION: PRELIMINARY CALIBRATIONS AND PROCEDURES*
Authors: STEVENSON C. M. , WHEELER D. , NOVAK S. W. , SPEAKMAN R. J. , GLASCOCK M. D.
Published: February 2007

The first European settlers came to North America in the early 17th century using glass in the form of containers and decorative objects. Thus, glass is a horizon marker for all historic period settlements and a potential source of chronometric dates at archaeological sites belonging to the historic period in the Americas. We have developed a new absolute dating method based upon water diffusion into the surface of manufactured glasses that predicts diffusion coefficients based upon variation in glass chemical constituents. Low‐temperature (< 190°C) hydration experiments have been performed on a set of five high‐calcium (21.7–28.3%) glasses that were used to manufacture wine bottles from the 17th−19th centuries. Infrared spectroscopy and secondary ion mass spectrometry was used to model the water diffusion/alkali exchange process. The ability of the model to accurately predict archaeological ages was evaluated with artefacts recovered from ceramic‐dated contexts at Thomas Jefferson's plantation known as Monticello.
Willingness to Communicate Organ Donation Intention
Authors: McDonald Deborah Dillon , Ferreri Ruth , Jin Carol , Mendez Anthea , Smail Julie , Balcom Patricia , Shoemaker Sheila , Kamuzora Paul Lwekaza , Durham Rebecca , Dibble Jaqueline
Published: February 2007

ABSTRACT
Objective: The study tested an intervention exposing people who planned to donate organs to written information about communicating with family their intention to donate organs.

Design: A pretest posttest double‐blind experiment compared participants given written information about communicating with family and basic organ donation information, with participants given written information about only basic organ donation information.

Sample: Participants included 109 adults who had not yet communicated their plans with family.

Measures: Participants first responded to previous experience with organ donation, thoughts about organ donation, willingness to communicate with family about organ donation, and knowledge about organ donation. After reading the respective pamphlet, participants again responded to thoughts about communicating with their family and willingness to communicate with family.

Results: Both groups responded with the same high willingness to communicate before the intervention and a small but significant increase in willingness to communicate afterwards.

Conclusions: Participants expressed a high degree of willingness to communicate about their organ donation intentions even though they had thus far not communicated their intentions. Factors in addition to willingness to communicate need to be identified in order to encourage better communication about organ donation intentions.
Using PEACE to Target Helmet Legislation Involving Nonmotorized Wheeled Sports in Canada
Authors: Ruth Whelan K.
Published: February 2007

ABSTRACT
Current Canadian helmet bylaws focus mainly on bicycle helmet use. In this way, law makers are ignoring head injuries associated with other wheeled sports. Cycling, in‐line skating, skateboarding, and scootering can all cause serious injury to participants if proper protective gear is not worn. Legislation has been shown to work in promoting helmet use and decreasing injuries. Nurses, using theory and research to guide practice, can be key players in advocating for healthy public policies and amendments to provincial legislation. Nurses have the opportunity to play an active leadership role that can be guided by PEACE, a philosophy that encompasses praxis, empowerment, awareness, cooperation, and evolvement.
The Effect of Dowel Space on the Bond Strengths of Fiber Posts
Authors: Perdigão Jorge , Gomes George , Augusto Vitor
Published: February 2007

Purpose
: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of the degree of mismatch between post space and post diameters on the bond strength of a fiber‐reinforced resin post.

Materials and Methods
: Thirty‐two extracted human maxillary central incisors and canines were endodontically treated and assigned to four groups: Group 1 ‐ Canal prepared with a D.T. Light Post #1 drill (control); Group 2 ‐ Canal prepared with a D.T. Light Post #2 drill; Group 3 ‐ Canal prepared with a D.T. Light Post #3 drill; Group 4 ‐ Canal prepared with a Gates Glidden #6 drill. A D.T. Light Post size 1 was then luted into the canal using One‐Step Adhesive and Post Cement Hi‐X. A push‐out test was performed on three sections of each root to measure push‐out bond strengths. Data were analyzed with ANOVA and Bonferroni's test at p < 0.05. Two extra teeth for each group were restored in the same fashion and processed for SEM observation.

Results
: (in MPa): Group 1: 15.7 ± 6.9; Group 2: 14.7 ± 6.5; Group 3: 14.0 ± 5.0; Group 4: 14.0 ± 5.1. The variable “post space” resulted in no statistically significant difference in mean bond strengths (p > 0.05). For the variable “root region,” the coronal third (17.5 ± 6.0) resulted in statistically greater mean bond strengths than the apical third (12.3 ± 6.0) at p < 0.008. The middle third (14.0 ± 5.3) resulted in no statistically significant different mean bond strengths from the coronal third at p > 0.119 and from the apical third at p > 0.999. Under the SEM, some areas of the canal system still displayed residual gutta‐percha, which resulted in debonding of the interface between the resin cement and dentin. Areas with incomplete dentin hybridization were observed in localized areas of all groups.

Conclusions
: The diameter of the post space did not affect the push‐out bond strengths. Bonding at the coronal level of the root canal is more reliable than bonding at the apical level. The presence of residual gutta‐percha and the deficient dentin hybridization may result in deficient seal of the resin–dentin interface.
Treatment of an Edentulous Patient with CAD/CAM Technology: A Clinical Report
Authors: Drago Carl J. , Peterson Thomas
Published: February 2007

CAD/CAM (computer‐aided design/computer‐aided manufacturing) technology with large‐scale industrial applications has been developed and used over the last 3 decades. Implant Innovations, Inc. (Palm Beach Gardens, FL), has recently introduced a version of this technology for use in implant restorative dentistry. Different software programs were written to design and machine individual implant abutments and bar‐type frameworks.

This report provides a literature review of CAD/CAM technology in dentistry and describes the treatment of one edentulous patient restored with individual implant abutments and conventional cemented fixed partial dentures in the edentulous maxilla and a fixed, screw‐retained prosthesis that replaced the missing mandibular teeth. The abutments were made using The Encode™ Restorative System; the mandibular framework was made with a CAM StructSURE™ Precision Milled Bar.

The benefits and limitations of this technology are also discussed. Additional clinical and laboratory studies are needed to further validate this technology.
Full Mouth Rehabilitation of a Hypohidrotic Ectodermal Dysplasia Patient with Dental Implants: A Clinical Report
Authors: Rad Afsaneh Shahrokhi , Siadat Hakimeh , Monzavi Abbas , Mangoli Amir‐ali
Published: February 2007

Prosthodontic treatment in patients with ectodermal dysplasia (ED) is difficult to manage because of the oral deficiencies typical in this disorder and because afflicted individuals are quite young when they are evaluated for treatment. This clinical report describes an 18‐year‐old patient with hypohidrotic ED treated with dental implants. Treatment included a maxillary implant overdenture and a mandibular hybrid prosthesis supported by osseointegrated implants. At the one‐year follow‐up, the patient presented significant improvements in oral function and psychosocial activities.
An Investigation of Tooth/Implant‐Supported Fixed Prosthesis Designs with Two Different Stress Analysis Methods: An in vitro Study
Authors: Özçelik Tuncer Burak , Ersoy Ahmet Ersan
Published: February 2007

Purpose: Tooth/implant‐supported fixed prostheses (TIFPs) present biomechanical design problems, because the implant is rigidly anchored within the alveolus, and the tooth is attached by the periodontal ligament that allows movement. While TIFP designs with rigid connectors (RCs) are preferred by many clinicians, the designs containing non‐rigid connectors (NRCs) are suggested as a method to compensate for these mobility differences. However, studies have failed to show the advantage of one design over the other. This study examined stresses formed around the implant and natural tooth abutments under occlusal forces, using two dimensional finite element (2D‐FEM) and photoelastic stress analysis methods (PSAM).

Materials and Methods: Connection of TIFP designs were investigated in distal extension situations using stress analysis interpreted with the 2D‐FEM and PSAM. Three TIFP (screw type implant, 3.75 mm × 13 mm) models with various connection designs (i.e., rigidly connected to an abutment tooth, connected to an abutment tooth with an NRC, connected to an abutment implant with an NRC) were studied. The stress values of the three models loaded with vertical forces (250 N) were analyzed.

Results: The highest level of stresses around the implant abutment was noted on the TIFPs with the RC. On the other hand, NRCs incorporated into prostheses at the site of the implant abutment reduced the level of stresses in bone.

Conclusion: It could be suggested that if tooth and implant abutments are to be used together as fixed prostheses supports, NRCs should be placed on the implant abutment‐supported site.
Live/Real Time Three‐Dimensional Transthoracic Echocardiographic Assessment of Left Ventricular Volumes, Ejection Fraction, and Mass Compared with Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Qi Xin , Cogar Bryan , Hsiung Ming Chon , Nanda Navin C. , Miller Andrew P. , Yelamanchili Pridhvi , Baysan Oben , Wu Yu Shu , Lan Gong Yau , Ko James S. , Cheng Charles H. , Lin Chang Chyi , Huang Chien Ming , Yin Wei Hsian , Young Mason Shing
Published: February 2007

Due to reliance upon geometric assumptions and foreshortening issues, the traditionally utilized transthoracic two‐dimensional echocardiography (2DTTE) has shown limitations in assessing left ventricular (LV) volume, mass, and function. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has shown potential in accurately defining these LV characteristics. Recently, the emergence of live/real time three‐dimensional (3D) TTE has demonstrated incremental value over 2DTTE and comparable value with MRI in assessing LV parameters. Here we report 58 consecutive patients with diverse cardiac disorders and clinical characteristics, referred for clinical MRI studies, who were evaluated by cardiac MRI and 3DTTE. Our results show good correlation between the two modalities.
Principles of disability glare measurement: an ophthalmological perspective
Authors: Aslam Tariq M. , Haider David , Murray Ian J.
Published: February 2007

Disability glare describes the loss of retinal image contrast as a result of intraocular light scatter, or straylight. It has increasingly important modern implications such as with cataract and refractive surgery or high‐intensity lighting. However, its measurement has proven difficult despite many varying approaches. This article aims to explain the principles and problems associated with glare testing that are important for assessment and use of glare measures. After defining disability glare, this article discusses the importance of its measurement to current clinical practice. It explains the principles and mechanisms that underlie disability glare and its measurement. Finally, some examples of available glare tests are described to illustrate the principles discussed.
Reliability of personality disorder diagnosis during depression: the contribution of collateral informant reports
Authors: Case B. G. , Biel M. G. , Peselow E. D. , Guardino M.
Published: February 2007

Objective:  Research has found low concordance of personality disorder diagnoses made during depression versus after remission and made using patient versus collateral informants, but little is known about the reliability of personality disorder (PD) diagnoses made during depression using patient and collateral reports.

Method:  A total of 168 patients were evaluated for PDs during depression and following response using patient and close informant reports. κ coefficients of inter‐informant and test–retest reliability were calculated.

Results:  After depression response, the proportion diagnosed with cluster A and C PDs fell by both patient and close informant report, and overall inter‐informant reliability declined. Overall test–retest reliability did not differ between patients and informants.

Conclusion:  Collateral informants do not improve the reliability of PD diagnoses made during depressive episodes.
Controls of local young‐of‐the‐year fish species richness in flood plain water bodies: potential effects of habitat heterogeneity, productivity and colonisation–extinction events
Authors: Tales E. , Berrebi R.
Published: February 2007

Abstract –  This study reports on the relationships between young‐of‐the‐year (YOY) fish species richness and landscape and local factors in 20 backwaters of the Seine River flood plain. Using multiple linear regression, we tested the importance of three types of variable for explaining total species richness (TSR), phytophil species richness (PSR) and lithophil species richness (LSR): (1) colonisation–extinction processes, (2) habitat heterogeneity and (3) productivity. At the local scale, no variables describing habitat heterogeneity correlated with TSR, PSR or LSR. Productivity was correlated only with TSR according to a polynomial model. In contrast, variables relating to the colonisation–extinction process correlated with TSR, PSR and LSR: TSR varied mainly with backwater size, which is a surrogate of extinction, whereas PSR and LSR correlated with the relative longitudinal position of backwaters and the size of their connection to the main channel. In conclusion, it seems that the total fish richness varies as a function of local factors, whereas the components of fish diversity are rather influenced by landscape factors.
Dynamic in‐lake spawning migrations by female sockeye salmon
Authors: Young D. B. , Woody C. A.
Published: February 2007

Abstract –  Precise homing by salmon to natal habitats is considered the primary mechanism in the evolution of population‐specific traits, yet few studies have focused on this final phase of their spawning migration. We radio tagged 157 female sockeye salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka) as they entered Lake Clark, Alaska, and tracked them every 1–10 days to their spawning locations. Contrary to past research, no specific shoreline migration pattern was observed (e.g., clockwise) nor did fish enter a tributary unless they spawned in that tributary. Tributary spawning fish migrated faster (mean = 4.7 km·day−1, SD = 2.7, vs. 1.6 km·day−1, SD = 2.1) and more directly (mean linearity = 0.8, SD = 0.2, vs. 0.4, SD = 0.2) than Lake Clark beach spawning fish. Although radio‐tagged salmon migrated to within 5 km of their final spawning location in an average of 21.2 days (SD = 13.2), some fish migrated five times the distance necessary and over 50 days to reach their spawning destination. These results demonstrate the dynamic nature of this final phase of migration and support studies indicating a higher degree of homing precision by tributary spawning fish.
Intravenous administration of melatonin reduces the intracerebral cellular inflammatory response following transient focal cerebral ischemia in rats
Authors: Lee Ming‐Yang , Kuan Yu‐Hsiang , Chen Hung‐Yi , Chen Tsung‐Ying , Chen Shur‐Tzu , Huang Chien‐Chih , Yang I‐Ping , Hsu Yun‐Shang , Wu Tian‐Shung , Lee E‐Jian
Published: February 2007

Abstract:  We have previously shown that exogenous melatonin improves the preservation of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and neurovascular unit following cerebral ischemia–reperfusion. Recent evidence indicates that postischemic microglial activation exaggerates the damage to the BBB. Herein, we explored whether melatonin mitigates the cellular inflammatory response after transient focal cerebral ischemia for 90 min in rats. Melatonin (5 mg/kg) or vehicle was given intravenously at reperfusion onset. Immunohistochemistry and flow cytometric analysis were used to evaluate the cellular inflammatory response at 48 hr after reperfusion. Relative to controls, melatonin‐treated animals did not have significantly changed systemic cellular inflammatory responses in the bloodstream (P > 0.05). Melatonin, however, significantly decreased the cellular inflammatory response by 41% (P < 0.001) in the ischemic hemisphere. Specifically, melatonin effectively decreased the extent of neutrophil emigration (Ly6G‐positive/CD45‐positive) and macrophage/activated microglial infiltration (CD11b‐positive/CD45‐positive) by 51% (P < 0.01) and 66% (P < 0.01), respectively, but did not significantly alter the population composition of T lymphocyte (CD3‐positive/CD45‐positive; P > 0.05). This melatonin‐mediated decrease in the cellular inflammatory response was accompanied by both reduced brain infarction and improved neurobehavioral outcome by 43% (P < 0.001) and 50% (P < 0.001), respectively. Thus, intravenous administration of melatonin upon reperfusion effectively decreased the emigration of circulatory neutrophils and macrophages/monocytes into the injured brain and inhibited focal microglial activation following cerebral ischemia–reperfusion. The finding demonstrates melatonin's inhibitory ability against the cellular inflammatory response after cerebral ischemia–reperfusion, and further supports its pleuripotent neuroprotective actions suited either as a monotherapy or an add‐on to the thrombolytic therapy for ischemic stroke patients.
Quantification of the water/lipid affinity of melatonin and a pinoline derivative in lipid models
Authors: Mekhloufi Jamila , Vitrac Heidi , Yous Saïd , Duriez Patrick , Jore Daniel , Gardès‐Albert Monique , Bonnefont‐Rousselot Dominique
Published: February 2007

Abstract:  This study assessed the location of melatonin (N‐acetyl‐5‐methoxytryptamine) and of a pinoline derivative (GWC22) [6‐ethyl‐1‐(3‐methoxyphenyl)‐2‐propyl‐1,2,3,4‐tetrahydro‐beta‐carboline], when present in lipid assemblies such as linoleate micelles, phosphatidylcholine liposomes or low density lipoproteins (LDL). The efficiency of radical scavenging by these compounds is highly dependent on their partitioning between the lipidic and aqueous phases. We determined the proportion of melatonin or GWC22 in the aqueous and lipid phases of each system (concentrations of the antioxidants ranging between 3 × 10−5 and 10−4 m) by assaying melatonin or GWC22 by HPLC/UV detection, or by fluorescence for melatonin in micelles. Our results show that melatonin and GWC22 were preferentially located in the aqueous phase of micelles (68.4% and 59.0%, respectively), whereas only 30.5% of melatonin and 39.0% of GWC22 were found in the lipid phase. By contrast, in phosphatidylcholine liposomes, both compounds were essentially present in the lipid phase (73.5% for melatonin and 79.1% for GWC22, versus 25.9% and 19.5% in the aqueous phase, respectively). In the case of LDL, 99.9% of the melatonin added was found in the methanol/water extracting phase containing phospholipids, unesterified cholesterol and apolipoprotein B100. The partitioning of melatonin and GWC22 in linoleate micelles gave new insights on the marked protective effect of GWC22 towards radiation‐induced lipid peroxidation and allowed us to determine more accurately the lower limit values of the reaction rate constants of the two molecules studied with lipid peroxyl radicals, i.e. k(LOO•+melatonin) ≥ 9.0 × 104m−1s−1 and k(LOO•+GWC22) ≥ 3.5 × 105m−1s−1.
Solution structure of the catalytic domain of RICH protein from goldfish
Authors: Kozlov Guennadi , Denisov Alexey Y. , Pomerantseva Ekaterina , Gravel Michel , Braun Peter E. , Gehring Kalle
Published: February 2007

Regeneration‐induced CNPase homolog (RICH) is an axonal growth‐associated protein, which is induced in teleost fish upon optical nerve injury. RICH consists of a highly acidic N‐terminal domain, a catalytic domain with 2′,3′‐cyclic nucleotide 3′‐phosphodiesterase (CNPase) activity and a C‐terminal isoprenylation site. In vitro RICH and mammalian brain CNPase specifically catalyze the hydrolysis of 2′,3′‐cyclic nucleotides to produce 2′‐nucleotides, but the physiologically relevant in vivo substrate remains unknown. Here, we report the NMR structure of the catalytic domain of goldfish RICH and describe its binding to CNPase inhibitors. The structure consists of a twisted nine‐stranded antiparallel β‐sheet surrounded by α‐helices on both sides. Despite significant local differences mostly arising from a seven‐residue insert in the RICH sequence, the active site region is highly similar to that of human CNPase. Likewise, refinement of the catalytic domain of rat CNPase using residual dipolar couplings gave improved agreement with the published crystal structure. NMR titrations of RICH with inhibitors point to a similar catalytic mechanism for RICH and CNPase. The results suggest a functional importance for the evolutionarily conserved phosphodiesterase activity and hint of a link with pre‐tRNA splicing.
Mode of action of glycoside hydrolase family 5 glucuronoxylan xylanohydrolase from Erwinia chrysanthemi
Authors: Vršanská Mária , Kolenová Katarína , Puchart Vladimír , Biely Peter
Published: February 2007

The mode of action of xylanase A from a phytopathogenic bacterium, Erwinia chrysanthemi, classified in glycoside hydrolase family 5, was investigated on xylooligosaccharides and polysaccharides using TLC, MALDI‐TOF MS and enzyme treatment with exoglycosidases. The hydrolytic action of xylanase A was found to be absolutely dependent on the presence of 4‐O‐methyl‐d‐glucuronosyl (MeGlcA) side residues in both oligosaccharides and polysaccharides. Neutral linear β‐1,4‐xylooligosaccharides and esterified aldouronic acids were resistant towards enzymatic action. Aldouronic acids of the structure MeGlcA3Xyl3 (aldotetraouronic acid), MeGlcA3Xyl4 (aldopentaouronic acid) and MeGlcA3Xyl5 (aldohexaouronic acid) were cleaved with the enzyme to give xylose from the reducing end and products shorter by one xylopyranosyl residue: MeGlcA2Xyl2, MeGlcA2Xyl3 and MeGlcA2Xyl4. As a rule, the enzyme attacked the second glycosidic linkage following the MeGlcA branch towards the reducing end. Depending on the distribution of MeGlcA residues on the glucuronoxylan main chain, the enzyme generated series of shorter and longer aldouronic acids of backbone polymerization degree 3–14, in which the MeGlcA is linked exclusively to the second xylopyranosyl residue from the reducing end. Upon incubation with β‐xylosidase, all acidic hydrolysis products of acidic oligosaccharides and hardwood glucuronoxylans were converted to aldotriouronic acid, MeGlcA2Xyl2. In agreement with this mode of action, xylose and unsubstituted oligosaccharides were essentially absent in the hydrolysates. The E. chrysanthemi xylanase A thus appears to be an excellent biocatalyst for the production of large acidic oligosaccharides from glucuronoxylans as well as an invaluable tool for determination of the distribution of MeGlcA residues along the main chain of this major plant hemicellulose.
The fabp4 gene of zebrafish (Danio rerio) − genomic homology with the mammalian FABP4 and divergence from the zebrafish fabp3 in developmental expression
Authors: Liu Rong‐Zong , Saxena Vishal , Sharma Mukesh K. , Thisse Christine , Thisse Bernard , Denovan‐Wright Eileen M. , Wright Jonathan M.
Published: February 2007

Teleost fishes differ from mammals in their fat deposition and distribution. The gene for adipocyte‐type fatty acid‐binding protein (A‐FABP or FABP4) has not been identified thus far in fishes. We have determined the cDNA sequence and defined the structure of a fatty acid‐binding protein gene (designated fabp4) from the zebrafish genome. The polypeptide sequence encoded by zebrafish fabp4 showed highest identity to the Had‐FABP or H6‐FABP from Antarctic fishes and the putative orthologs from other teleost fishes (83–88%). Phylogenetic analysis clustered the zebrafish FABP4 with all Antarctic fish H6‐FABPs and putative FABP4s from other fishes in a single clade, and then with the mammalian FABP4s in an extended clade. Zebrafish fabp4 was assigned to linkage group 19 at a distinct locus from fabp3. A number of closely linked syntenic genes surrounding the zebrafish fabp4 locus were found to be conserved with human FABP4. The zebrafish fabp4 transcripts showed sequential distribution in the developing eye, diencephalon and brain vascular system, from the middle somitogenesis stage to 48 h postfertilization, whereas fabp3 mRNA was located widely in the embryonic and/or larval central nervous system, retina, myotomes, pancreas and liver from middle somitogenesis to 5 days postfertilization. Differentiation in developmental regulation of zebrafish fabp4 and fabp3 gene transcription suggests distinct functions for these two paralogous genes in vertebrate development.
Treatment of a Chromate‐Contaminated Soil Site by in situ Gaseous Reduction
Authors: Thornton E.C , Gilmore T.J. , Olsen K.B. , Giblin J.T. , Phelan J.M.
Published: February 2007

A proof‐of‐concept field test for the treatment of hexavalent chromium in the vadose zone using in situ gaseous reduction was successfully completed by the U.S. Department of Energy and U.S. Department of Defense in a joint demonstration conducted at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico. The test involved injecting hydrogen sulfide, diluted in air, into contaminated vadose zone sediment to reduce Cr(VI) to Cr(III). The gaseous mixture was injected directly into the contaminated sediment through a central injection well and vacuum extracted through the flow field with six boreholes at the site periphery over a 76‐d period. Comparison of soil samples taken before and after the test indicated 70% of the total mass of hexavalent chromium originally present at the site was reduced and immobilized. The zone of highest contamination was nearly completely treated, with average Cr(VI) concentrations decreasing in this interval from an average of 8.1 mg/kg before treatment to 1.1 mg/kg after treatment. Treatment was best in higher permeability clean gypsum sands and less effective in zones containing greater amounts of silt and clay and a slightly higher iron content. All hexavalent chromium concentrations measured in the posttest samples, however, were well below the remedial goal and regulatory limit of 30 mg/kg. In addition, the field test demonstrated that vadose zone treatment of contamination can be safely conducted using diluted hydrogen sulfide gas mixtures. Ongoing development of the technology is being directed toward addressing the limitations of gaseous treatment arising from variations in sediment permeability and iron content and assessing the relationship between hydrogen sulfide consumption and reaction kinetics.
Monitoring Subsurface Contamination Using Tree Branches
Authors: Gopalakrishnan Gayathri , Negri M. Cristina , Minsker Barbara S. , Werth Charles J.
Published: February 2007

This paper proposes a method of assessing the distribution of chlorinated solvents in soil and ground water using tree branches. Sampling branches is a potentially more cost‐effective and easier method than sampling tree cores, with less risk of damage to the tree. This approach was tested at Argonne National Laboratory, where phytoremediation is being used to remove tetrachloroethene (PCE), trichloroethene (TCE), and carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) from soil and ground water. The phytoremediation system consists of shallow‐rooted willows planted in an area with contaminated soil and deep‐rooted poplars planted in an area with clean soil and contaminated ground water. Branch samples were collected from 126 willows and 120 poplars. Contaminant concentrations from 31 soil borings and six monitoring wells were compared to those from branches of adjacent trees. Regression equations with correlation coefficients of at least 0.89 were obtained, which were found to be chemical specific. Kriged profiles of TCE concentration based on soil and willow branch data were developed and showed good agreement. Profiles based on ground water data could not be developed due to lack of sufficient monitoring wells for a meaningful statistical analysis. An analytical model was used to simulate TCE concentrations in tree branches from soil concentrations; the diffusion coefficient for TCE in the tree was used as the fitting parameter and the best‐fit value was two orders of magnitude greater than literature values. This work indicates that tree branch sampling is a useful approach to assess contaminant distribution and potentially to determine where to locate monitoring wells or perform detailed soil analysis. Further research is necessary prior to using this method as a quantitative monitoring tool for soil and ground water.
Multivariate Analysis of Ground Water and Soil Data from a Waste Disposal Site
Authors: Mumford Kevin G. , MacGregor John F. , Dickson Sarah E. , Frappa Richard H.
Published: February 2007

Environmental site investigations often involve the collection and analysis of hundreds of samples producing data sets that contain thousands of data points, which are difficult and time consuming to analyze. Consequently, investigators often focus on key surrogate parameters for site characterization and remedial action planning and assessment, which results in a large portion of the data collected remaining unused. This study presents the application of principal component analysis (PCA) as an efficient statistical technique to examine large environmental data sets through highlighting patterns in a reduced‐variable space. In this work, PCA was applied to ground water and soil data collected from a National Priorities List Superfund site. Analysis of the soil sample data identified several samples with contaminant parameters that were more closely related to those of the waste material than the background samples, and provided both a measure and delineation of the overall soil contamination. Analysis of the ground water data identified elevated metal concentrations due to the corrosion of a carbon steel well screen, a potential hydraulic connection between upper and lower water bearing zones at one well location, and two potentially impacted well locations. These results demonstrate that PCA facilitates the efficient analysis of large environmental data sets, providing a measure of contamination based on multiple sample parameters and aiding in the definition of a remediation boundary. These advantages can expedite data interpretation, guide additional sampling efforts, and define more accurate remediation boundaries, ultimately reducing the total cost of site investigation.