bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human metallothioneins 2 and 3 differentially affect amyloid‐beta binding by transthyretin
Authors: Martinho Ana , Gonçalves Isabel , Cardoso Isabel , Almeida Maria R. , Quintela Telma , Saraiva Maria J. , Santos Cecília R. A.
Published: July 2010

Transthyretin (TTR), an amyloid‐beta (Aβ) scavenger protein, and metallothioneins 2 and 3 (MT2 and MT3), low molecular weight metal‐binding proteins, have recognized impacts in Aβ metabolism. Because TTR binds MT2, an ubiquitous isoform of the MTs, we investigated whether it also interacts with MT3, an isoform of the MTs predominantly expressed in the brain, and studied the role of MT2 and MT3 in human TTR–Aβ binding. The TTR–MT3 interaction was characterized by yeast two‐hybrid assays, saturation‐binding assays, co‐immunolocalization and co‐immunoprecipitation. The effect of MT2 and MT3 on TTR–Aβ binding was assessed by competition‐binding assays. The results obtained clearly demonstrate that TTR interacts with MT3 with a Kd of 373.7 ± 60.2 nm. Competition‐binding assays demonstrated that MT2 diminishes TTR–Aβ binding, whereas MT3 has the opposite effect. In addition to identifying a novel ligand for TTR that improves human TTR–Aβ binding, the present study highlights the need to clarify whether the effects of MT2 and MT3 in human TTR–Aβ binding observed in vitro have a relevant impact on Aβ deposition in animal models of Alzheimer’s disease.

Structured digital abstract

 MINT‐7905930: Amyloid beta (uniprotkb:P05067) physically interacts (MI:0915) with Ttr (uniprotkb:P02767) by saturation binding (MI:0440)

 MINT‐7905857: MT3 (uniprotkb:P25713) binds (MI:0407) to TTR (uniprotkb:P02766) by saturation binding (MI:0440)

 MINT‐7905838: TTR (uniprotkb:P02766) physically interacts (MI:0915) with MT3 (uniprotkb:P25713) by two hybrid (MI:0018)

 MINT‐7905914: Ttr (uniprotkb:P02766) physically interacts (MI:0915) with Mt3 (uniprotkb:P25713) by anti tag coimmunoprecipitation (MI:0007)

 MINT‐7905895: TTR (uniprotkb:P02767) and Mt3 (uniprotkb:P37361) colocalize (MI:0403) by fluorescence microscopy (MI:0416)
Curcumin suppresses the dynamic instability of microtubules, activates the mitotic checkpoint and induces apoptosis in MCF‐7 cells
Authors: Banerjee Mithu , Singh Parminder , Panda Dulal
Published: July 2010

In this study, curcumin, a potential anticancer agent, was found to dampen the dynamic instability of individual microtubules in living MCF‐7 cells. It strongly reduced the rate and extent of shortening states, and modestly reduced the rate and extent of growing states. In addition, curcumin decreased the fraction of time microtubules spent in the growing state and strongly increased the time microtubules spent in the pause state. Brief treatment with curcumin depolymerized mitotic microtubules, perturbed microtubule–kinetochore attachment and disturbed the mitotic spindle structure. Curcumin also perturbed the localization of the kinesin protein Eg5 and induced monopolar spindle formation. Further, curcumin increased the accumulation of Mad2 and BubR1 at the kinetochores, indicating that it activated the mitotic checkpoint. In addition, curcumin treatment increased the metaphase/anaphase ratio, indicating that it can delay mitotic progression from the metaphase to anaphase. We provide evidence suggesting that the affected cells underwent apoptosis via the p53‐dependent apoptotic pathway. The results support the idea that kinetic stabilization of microtubule dynamics assists in the nuclear translocation of p53. Curcumin exerted additive effects when combined with vinblastine, a microtubule depolymerizing drug, whereas the combination of curcumin with paclitaxel, a microtubule‐stabilizing drug, produced an antagonistic effect on the inhibition of MCF‐7 cell proliferation. The results together suggested that curcumin inhibited MCF‐7 cell proliferation by inhibiting the assembly dynamics of microtubules.
Sexual Satisfaction in Females with Premenstrual Symptoms
Authors: Nowosielski Krzysztof , Drosdzol Agnieszka , Skrzypulec Violetta , Plinta Ryszard
Published: July 2010

Introduction

The impact of premenstrual symptoms, such as the premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and the premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), on sexual satisfaction, sexual distress, and sexual behaviors has not yet been established.

Aims

To assess the correlates and risk factors of sexual satisfaction and to evaluate sexual behaviors among Polish women with premenstrual symptoms.

Methods

2,500 females, aged 18 to 45 years, from the Upper Silesian region of Poland were eligible for the questionnaire-based, prospective population study. All the inclusion criteria were met by 1,540 women who constituted the final study group. The participants were further divided into two subgroups: PMS+ (749 females) and PMS− (791 healthy subjects). Two additional subgroups were created: PMDD+ encompassing 32 subjects diagnosed with PMDD, and PMDD− comprising 32 healthy women, matched to the PMDD+ females for age, marital status, education level, employment status, place of living, and body mass index. A multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the influence of PMS on sexual satisfaction and adjust for potential confounders.

Main Outcome Measure

To evaluate risk factors for sexual dissatisfaction in a population of Polish females of reproductive age, diagnosed with PMS and PMDD.

Results

Women from the PMS+ group were less sexually satisfied than PMS− (77.73% vs. 88.66%, P = 0.001) and reported more sexual distress (28.65% vs. 15.24%, P = 0.001). There were no significant differences in sexual satisfaction between PMDD− and PMDD+. Sexual satisfaction correlated positively with a higher frequency of sexual intercourses and a higher level of education. The presence of PMS correlated negatively with sexual satisfaction, even after adjusting for potential confounders in the multivariate logistic regression model (odds ratio=0.48; confidence interval: 0.26–0.89; P = 0.02).

Conclusions

The presence of PMS is a risk factor for sexual dissatisfaction in Polish women of reproductive age.
Strangulation of Penis by a Ball Bearing Device
Authors: Singh Iqbal , Joshi Mohit K. , Jaura Maninder S.
Published: July 2010

Introduction

Penile strangulation is rare and usually results following placement of constricting objects to enhance sexual stimulation. It requires urgent treatment as delay may lead to irreversible penile ischemia and gangrene. Various objects causing penile strangulation have been reported. Nonmetallic and thin metallic objects can be removed easily as compared to heavy metallic objects. Cutting is the commonest method described, although procuring special cutting tools may be difficult and the process of cutting may be tedious with the possibility of iatrogenic penile injury.

Aim

To present a simple, safe, minimally invasive, effective, and feasible technique for removing heavy metallic objects constricting the penis.

Methods

The published English literature (PubMed™) was searched for cases of “penile strangulation” using the keywords penile strangulation, penile injury, penile trauma, penile constriction, penile entrapment, and penile incarceration. The described treatment modalities were carefully reviewed and studied.

Main Outcome Measures

Reviewed published English literature on the various causes of penile incarceration and the various techniques used for their extrication.

Results

Search results yielded several cases of penile strangulation caused by a variety of metallic and nonmetallic objects. Various modalities have been described in the English literature for their safe removal, each with its own merits and demerits.

Conclusions

Penile strangulation should be viewed and managed as an emergency in order to prevent penile necrosis and urethral injury and to preserve erectile function. The modified method described herein for managing penile strangulation due to heavy metallic rings is minimally invasive, safe, effective, does not require any special cutting instrument(s) or skill, and is free of causing iatrogenic collateral thermal or mechanical damage to the penile organ. A stepwise algorithm depicting a rational and comprehensive approach to the diagnosis and management of penile incarceration is also suggested for the clinicians.
Pubic Hair Removal among Women in the United States: Prevalence, Methods, and Characteristics
Authors: Herbenick Debra , Schick Vanessa , Reece Michael , Sanders Stephanie , Fortenberry J. Dennis
Published: July 2010

Introduction

Although women’s total removal of their pubic hair has been described as a “new norm,” little is known about the pubic hair removal patterns of sexually active women in the United States.

Aims

The purpose of this study was to assess pubic hair removal behavior among women in the United States and to examine the extent to which pubic hair removal methods are related to demographic, relational, and sexual characteristics, including female sexual function.

Methods

A total of 2,451 women ages 18 to 68 years completed a cross-sectional Internet-based survey.

Main Outcome Measures

Demographic items (e.g., age, education, sexual relationship status, sexual orientation), cunnilingus in the past 4 weeks, having looked closely at or examined their genitals in the past 4 weeks, extent and method of pubic hair removal over the past 4 weeks, the Female Genital Self-Image Scale (FGSIS) and the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI).

Results

Women reported a diverse range of pubic hair-grooming practices. Women’s total removal of their pubic hair was associated with younger age, sexual orientation, sexual relationship status, having received cunnilingus in the past 4 weeks, and higher scores on the FGSIS and FSFI (with the exception of the orgasm subscale).

Conclusion

Findings suggest that pubic hair styles are diverse and that it is more common than not for women to have at least some pubic hair on their genitals. In addition, total pubic hair removal was associated with younger age, being partnered (rather than single or married), having looked closely at one’s own genitals in the previous month, cunnilingus in the past month, and more positive genital self-image and sexual function.
DEVELOPMENT OF FIBER‐ENRICHED BISCUITS FORMULA BY A MIXTURE DESIGN
Authors: ELLOUZE‐GHORBEL RAOUDHA , KAMOUN AMEL , NEIFAR MOHAMED , BELGUITH SAMEH , AYADI MOHAMED ALI , KAMOUN AMAR , ELLOUZE‐CHAABOUNI SEMIA
Published: July 2010

The present research studies the optimization of the textural properties of new fiber‐enriched biscuit formulae. A mixture design was carried out in order to model the textural properties of dough and biscuit supplemented with Aestivum wheat bran (AWB) and durum wheat bran (DWB). The desirability function was used to determine the coordinates of fiber‐enriched biscuit formulae characterized presenting textural properties of dough (hardness, cohesiveness and adhesiveness) and biscuit (maximum peak force) close to those of the commercial product without fiber. Two optimal biscuit formulae (Optimal formula 1 (OM1): 86.66% of wheat flour, 6.67% of DWB and 6.67% of AWB and Optimal formula 2 (OM2): 73.30% of wheat flour, 13.35% of DWB and 13.35% of AWB) were tested at the industrial scale and provided highly acceptable scores from the taste panelists.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Consumption of dietary fiber provides health benefits including protection against cardiovascular diseases, cancer and other degenerative diseases. Wheat bran is a readily available and inexpensive source of dietary fiber. In this work, we developed new biscuit formulae enriched with both Aestivum and durum wheat brans. The substitution of wheat flour by wheat brans at their optimum levels led to dietary fiber‐enriched biscuits with improved functional and nutritional properties and without undesirable changes in their sensory properties.
Chromogranins A and B and secretogranin II: evolutionary and functional aspects
Authors: Montero‐Hadjadje M. , Vaingankar S. , Elias S. , Tostivint H. , Mahata S. K. , Anouar Y.
Published: July 2010

Chromogranins/secretogranins or granins are a class of acidic, secretory proteins that occur in endocrine, neuroendocrine, and neuronal cells. Granins are the precursors of several bioactive peptides and may be involved in secretory granule formation and neurotransmitter/hormone release. Characterization and analysis of chromogranin A (CgA), chromogranin B (CgB), and secretogranin II (SgII) in distant vertebrate species confirmed that CgA and CgB belong to related monophyletic groups, probably evolving from a common ancestral precursor, while SgII sequences constitute a distinct monophyletic group. In particular, selective sequences within these proteins, bounded by potential processing sites, have been remarkably conserved during evolution. Peptides named vasostatin, secretolytin and secretoneurin, which occur in these regions, have been shown to exert various biological activities. These conserved domains may also be involved in the formation of secretory granules in different vertebrates. Other peptides such as catestatin and pancreastatin may have appeared late during evolution. The function of granins as propeptide precursors and granulogenic factors is discussed in the light of recent data obtained in various model species and using knockout mice strains.
Duodenal epithelial sensing of luminal acid: role of carbonic anhydrases
Authors: Sjöblom M.
Published: July 2010

Sensing the luminal contents is a prerequisite to activate appropriate gastrointestinal functions. A major task of the duodenal epithelium is to resist the repeated challenges of hydrochloric acid expelled from the stomach. Although extensive research in this field, the complete mechanisms providing this defence remain to be revealed. The duodenal epithelium exports bicarbonate into a submillimetre‐thick mucus gel on top of the mucosal surface. Despite the very low pH of the luminal contents, the duodenal mucus–bicarbonate barrier provides a means of maintaining a virtually neutral pH at the epithelial surface. Instead of pH, CO2 generated by the mixing of acid and bicarbonate at levels not found elsewhere in the body serves as the mediator for sensing the luminal acid. Carbonic anhydrases (CAs) catalyse the reversible hydration of CO2 and are heavily expressed in the duodenal segment. Accumulating data support the key function of CAs in sensing luminal acid and CO2. Recent advances demonstrate that the presence of CA II in upper villus plays a crucial role in enterocyte intracellular acidification preceding the secretory increase in response to luminal acid. However, CAs only have a minor role in the bicarbonate supply destined for duodenal bicarbonate secretion into the lumen. The purpose of this review is to summarize the current knowledge of how intraluminal acid is sensed by the duodenal mucosa, with a focus on the role of CAs.
Novel Rare Earth–Polyvinyl Pyridine Complex Functionalized Hybrid Silica Microspheres: Molecular Assembly and Photophysical Property
Authors: Guo Lei , Yan Bing
Published: July 2010

The functional silica microspheres are derived from the three different silane crosslinking reagents, and then the polyvinyl pyridine‐based rare earth hybrids are synthesized through free radical copolymerization of rare earth–vinyl pyridine complex monomer with these functionalized silica microspheres (RE = Eu, Tb). The obtained hybrids are characterized by Fourier transform infrared, X‐ray diffraction, Scanning electronic microscope and photoluminescence spectra. The intramolecular energy transfer process between rare earth ions and polymer polyvinyl pyrrolidone matrices took place within these polymer‐based hybrids and especially the quantum efficiency of europium hybrids are determined, suggesting that the hybrid material systems derived from different functional silica microspheres present different luminescence efficiencies.
Safety and Tolerability of the Direct Renin Inhibitor Aliskiren: A Pooled Analysis of Clinical Experience in More Than 12,000 Patients With Hypertension
Authors: White William B. , Bresalier Robert , Kaplan Allen P. , Palmer Biff F. , Riddell Robert H. , Lesogor Anastasia , Chang William , Keefe Deborah L.
Published: July 2010

J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich). 2010;12:765‐775. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

While the safety of renin‐angiotensin system (RAS)–blocking drugs such as angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers is well known, less is known about the new direct renin inhibitor aliskiren. The authors pooled data from 12 randomized controlled trials of aliskiren in patients with hypertension and analyzed the incidence and types of adverse events (AEs) and laboratory abnormalities. Studies were characterized as short‐term (≤2 months) placebo‐controlled or long‐term (>2 months) active‐controlled. Relative risks for AEs of particular interest for RAS blockers were calculated. In short‐term studies, AEs occurred in similar proportions of aliskiren 150 mg and 300 mg (33.6% and 31.6%, respectively) and placebo treatment groups (36.8%). In long‐term studies, a lower proportion of patients treated with aliskiren 150 mg and 300 mg had AEs (33.7% and 43.2%, respectively) than those treated with ACE inhibitors (60.1%), angiotensin receptor blockers (53.9%), and thiazide diuretics (48.9%). Events of special interest, including angioedema, hyperkalemia, and diarrhea occurred in similar proportions of patients taking aliskiren, placebo, and comparator agents. In studies of up to 36 weeks, patients treated with aliskiren were significantly less likely to develop cough than those treated with ACE inhibitors. At the registered doses of 150 mg and 300 mg daily, aliskiren has safety and tolerability profiles similar to placebo, other RAS blockers, and diuretics. Cough rates are lower with aliskiren compared with ACE inhibitors.
A QUESTION OF ABSENCE
Authors: Gerrard Jackie
Published: July 2010

abstract

This paper was written in an effort to process rather extreme countertransference reactions to an ‘absent’ patient, i.e. one who attended her twice‐weekly psychotherapy only sporadically. At times she did not come for up to several months and consequently a serious debt would accrue. However, it was not so much the amount owing but rather the constant cancellations, with seemingly ‘rational’ excuses about her non‐attendance that would provoke an intense frustration accompanied, at times, by furious, almost sadistic countertransference feelings. The patient kept her therapist ‘dangling in uncertainty’ (Brenman Pick, 2002), which the author considered to be a reflection of the patient's inner sado‐masochistic object world. The author attempts to make sense of her countertransference in the light of the patient's early relationships and subsequently forms a hypothesis that the absences have been necessary to convey, very powerfully, experiences that may not have been communicated by regular attendance. Finally, the author offers her ‘Afterthoughts’ in the light of developments since the patient has read the paper and given her permission for publication.
THE O OF EMPTINESS AND THE EMPTINESS OF O
Authors: Mendoza Steven
Published: July 2010

abstract

In this paper I try to show how Bion's sense of ‘O’ may usefully be seen as similar to the Buddhist notion of emptiness. I try to instantiate some of his ideas and I hope that by doing so I might contribute to the realization in the consulting room of his injunctions. I try to explore a possible difference in interpretation between the terms identity and identification and to use the distinction to suggest how emptiness can clarify the real nature of the ego as Freud accounted of it and how its realization can instantiate ego strength.
A new species of Kleinia (Asteraceae) from Somalia
Authors: Thulin Mats
Published: July 2010

The new species Kleinia caespitosa, from crevices in limestone rocks at 1850–1900 m in northern Somalia, is described and illustrated. It is compared to the widespread and sympatric K. grantii, as well as to K. saginata in Oman.
A new European heather: Erica lusitanica subsp. cantabrica subsp. nova (Ericaceae)
Authors: Fagändez Jaime , Izco Jesäs
Published: July 2010

A new subspecies of Erica lusitanica from the Cantabrian basin in northern Spain and south‐west France is described. The diagnostic characters are found in seed type, corolla size, anther filament, exertion of stigma and presence of insect galls. The geographical distribution and ecological requirements are different as well. A complete description of the new subspecies is given. A comparison with the typic subspecies and the closely related species from section Arsace, E. arborea is dismissed.
Two new subspecies in Andean Phylloscirpus and Trichophorum (Cyperaceae)
Authors: Dhooge S. , Goetghebeur P.
Published: July 2010

Phylloscirpus acaulis and Trichophorum rigidum (Cyperaceae) are widely distributed in the Andes of South America. A study of the taxonomy, vegetative architecture and inflorescence structure showed the existence of two subspecies, Phylloscirpus acaulis subsp. pachycaulis and Trichophorum rigidum subsp. ecuadoriense.
Empirical geographic modeling of switchgrass yields in the United States
Authors: JAGER HENRIETTE I. , BASKARAN LATHA M. , BRANDT CRAIG C. , DAVIS ETHAN B. , GUNDERSON CARLA A. , WULLSCHLEGER STAN D.
Published: July 2010

Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) is a perennial grass native to the United States that has been studied as a sustainable source of biomass fuel. Although many field‐scale studies have examined the potential of this grass as a bioenergy crop, these studies have not been integrated. In this study, we present an empirical model for switchgrass yield and use this model to predict yield for the conterminous United States. We added environmental covariates to assembled yield data from field trials based on geographic location. We developed empirical models based on these data. The resulting empirical models, which account for spatial autocorrelation in the field data, provide the ability to estimate yield from factors associated with climate, soils, and management for both lowland and upland varieties of switchgrass. Yields of both ecotypes showed quadratic responses to temperature, increased with precipitation and minimum winter temperature, and decreased with stand age. Only the upland ecotype showed a positive response to our index of soil wetness and only the lowland ecotype showed a positive response to fertilizer. We view this empirical modeling effort, not as an alternative to mechanistic plant‐growth modeling, but rather as a first step in the process of functional validation that will compare patterns produced by the models with those found in data. For the upland variety, the correlation between measured yields and yields predicted by empirical models was 0.62 for the training subset and 0.58 for the test subset. For the lowland variety, the correlation was 0.46 for the training subset and 0.19 for the test subset. Because considerable variation in yield remains unexplained, it will be important in the future to characterize spatial and local sources of uncertainty associated with empirical yield estimates.
Mycobacteria are hidden endophytes in the shoots of rock plant [Pogonatherum paniceum (Lam.) Hack.] (Poaceae)
Authors: Koskimäki Janne J. , Hankala Elina , Suorsa Marja , Nylund Sannakajsa , Pirttilä Anna Maria
Published: July 2010

A mycobacterium was isolated from micropropagated Pogonatherum paniceum and identified as a close relative of Mycobacterium cookii. The endophyte diversity in the shoots of potted and micropropagated P. paniceum plants was studied by culture‐independent techniques. Group‐ and strain‐specific PCR demonstrated that the P. paniceum plants harboured the isolated Mycobacterium strain as a minority. Altogether 101 clones of the PCR products were sequenced. The shoots of potted P. paniceum plants harboured unculturable endophytes in the families Phyllobacteriaceae, Hyphomicrobiaceae, Sphingobacteriaceae, Enterobacteriaceae, Alcaligenaceae and Mycobacteriaceae. Among the unculturable Mycobacteriaceae strains related to Mycobacterium chubuense, M. poriferae, M. obuense, M. fortuitum, M. neoaurum, M. diernhoferi, M. intracellulare and M. cookii were identified. Three unique sequences that clustered with M. llatzarense and M. mucogenicum were identified in micropropagated plants. According to the results, the shoots and micropropagated tissues of rock plant are inhabited by mycobacteria, which should stimulate further studies on the diversity of unculturable mycobacteria in edible crop plants.
Distribution pattern of the adenomatoid odontogenic tumor: a retrospective study from the files of a government teaching hospital, Tamil Nadu, Chennai, India
Authors: Arunaa Sivasubramanian , Ponniah Irulandy
Published: July 2010

Aim:  To determine the distribution and clinicopathologic characteristics of adenomatoid odontogenic tumors from Tamil Nadu, India, to provide meaningful data for comparison among different population groups, mainly in the Asian context.

Methods:  Forty‐three adenomatoid odontogenic tumors were reviewed from 493 odontogenic tumors recorded between 1970 and 2008. The data pertaining to age, sex, anatomic site, associated impacted teeth and radiographic details, provisional diagnoses, and macroscopic and microscopic details of the 43 odontogenic tumors were reviewed.

Results:  The relative frequency of adenomatoid tumors comprised 8.72% of the total odontogenic tumors. The age range was 9–30 years, with a mean age of 16.88 years for combined adenomatoid odontogenic tumors. The mean age for other variants of adenomatoid odontogenic tumors assessed in this study differed slightly between sexes. Forty occurred within the bone and three peripherally. In general, the maxilla was the predominant site of involvement (72.5%), and the anterior region of jaw was affected in 92.5%. For combined adenomatoid odontogenic tumors, the male‐to‐female ratio was 1:1.26, and the maxilla‐to‐mandible ratio was 2.9:1. Microscopically, cystic lesions comprised 37.5% and occurred more often in males with a lower mean age.

Conclusion:  The present study shows variations in the distribution of adenomatoid odontogenic tumors within the population assessed, but no definite conclusion emerged with regard to regional or ethnic effect.
Substrate Elasticity Regulates Skeletal Muscle Stem Cell Self-Renewal in Culture
Authors: Gilbert P. M. , Havenstrite K. L. , Magnusson K. E. G. , Sacco A. , Leonardi N. A. , Kraft P. , Nguyen N. K. , Thrun S. , Lutolf M. P. , Blau H. M.
Published: July 2010

Environment Matters

Stem cells isolated from muscle can be used for muscle regeneration, but only if the stem cells are fresh. Under standard cell culture conditions in the laboratory, muscle stem cells fail to proliferate efficiently and lose their regenerative capacity.

Gilbert
et al.

(p.
1078
, published online 15 July; see the Perspective by

Bhatia

) built an in vitro–culture system that resembles the physical characteristics in which muscle stem cells normally reside: a squishy elastic bed (rather than the hard slab of a plastic culture flask). Laminin tethered to hydrogels was used to generate substrates of varying elasticity. When cultured on these substrates, muscle stem cells remained undifferentiated and were able to support muscle regeneration when transplanted back into mice.
Imaging the Host Immune Response
Authors: Cheng Elaine
Published: July 2010

Detecting an enzyme expressed by a subset of monocytes confers an ability to monitor rejection of transplanted hearts.
Vulnerability of white spruce tree growth in interior Alaska in response to climate variability: dendrochronological, demographic, and experimental perspectivesThis article is one of a selection of papers from The Dynamics of Change in Alaska’s Boreal Forests: Resilience and Vulnerability in Response to Climate Warming.
Authors: McGuire A. David , Ruess Roger W. , Lloyd A. , Yarie J. , Clein Joy S. , Juday Glenn P.
Published: July 2010

This paper integrates dendrochronological, demographic, and experimental perspectives to improve understanding of the response of white spruce ( Picea glauca (Moench) Voss) tree growth to climatic variability in interior Alaska. The dendrochronological analyses indicate that climate warming has led to widespread declines in white spruce growth throughout interior Alaska that have become more prevalent during the 20th century. Similarly, demographic studies show that white spruce tree growth is substantially limited by soil moisture availability in both mid- and late-successional stands. Interannual variability in tree growth among stands within a landscape exhibits greater synchrony than does growth of trees that occupy different landscapes, which agrees with dendrochronological findings that the responses depend on landscape position and prevailing climate. In contrast, the results from 18 years of a summer moisture limitation experiment showed that growth in midsuccessional upland stands was unaffected by moisture limitation and that moisture limitation decreased white spruce growth in floodplain stands where it was expected that growth would be less vulnerable because of tree access to river water. Taken together, the evidence from the different perspectives analyzed in this study clearly indicates that white spruce tree growth in interior Alaska is vulnerable to the effects of warming on plant water balance.
Demography of snowshoe hares in relation to regional climate variability during a 10-year population cycle in interior AlaskaThis article is one of a selection of papers from The Dynamics of Change in Alaska’s Boreal Forests: Resilience and Vulnerability in Response to Climate Warming.
Authors: Kielland K. , Olson K. , Euskirchen E.
Published: July 2010

We monitored populations of snowshoe hares ( Lepus americanus , Erxleben) in interior Alaska for 10 years from 1999 to 2008. During this period, fall densities of hares fluctuated approximately 14-fold. High population growth rates over summer (λ = 1.83–8.00) were followed by large population declines over winter (λ = 0.16–0.82). Young-of-the-year hares tended to gain mass over winter, while adult hares tended to loose body mass. The average mass of adult hares was significantly lower during the low phase of the cycle compared with when hares were abundant. Overwinter survival of juveniles relative to adults decreased strongly as a function of the frequency of snowfall events. However, effects of temperature and precipitation on hare demography were season dependent and appear to act as modifiers of the primary controls over population dynamics (predation and food) rather than as direct sources of mortality. The rapid changes in green-up and snow-up in interior Alaska may affect forage conditions as well as the timing of molt in snowshoe hares. The strength of these interactions may increase in importance if the asynchrony of environmental seasonality and life history traits of snowshoe hares becomes more pronounced as the climate continues to change.
Correlations, distributions, and trends in forest inventory errors and their effects on forest planning
Authors: Mäkinen Antti , Kangas Annika , Mehtätalo Lauri
Published: July 2010

Errors in forest planning data are known to have various undesired effects, which have been examined previously by simulating their impact on forest planning systems. In most cases, the simulation of forest inventory errors has been simplified by assuming the error distribution to be Gaussian, possibly with a constant bias, and neglecting possible correlations between the errors in various attributes. The first aim here was to examine the distributions, correlations, and trends in errors when using alternative forest inventory methods, and the second was to analyse how different error simulation methods affect the estimated economic losses caused by suboptimal harvest timing on account of errors. We found that the errors were not normally distributed, had notable trends, and showed significant correlations between the errors for the various attributes. The most important factor affecting the inoptimality losses was the powerful tendency to underestimate the growing stock properties of mature stands. The error simulation method clearly makes a difference when analysing the effects of errors, and it is therefore important to use a simulation method that generates realistic errors.
Long-term effects of fire and fire-return interval on population structure and growth of longleaf pine (Pinus palustris)
Authors: Ford Chelcy R. , Minor Emily S. , Fox Gordon A.
Published: July 2010

We investigated the effect of fire and fire frequency on stand structure and longleaf pine ( Pinus palustris P. Mill.) growth and population demography in an experimental research area in a southwest Florida sandhill community. Data were collected from replicated plots that had prescribed fire-return intervals of 1, 2, 5, or 7 years or were left unburned. Experimental treatment burns have been ongoing since 1976. Plots were sampled to estimate species distribution, stand structure, and longleaf pine density in four developmental stage classes: grass, bolting, small tree, and large tree. Tree-ring growth measurements in combination with burn history were used to evaluate the effects of fire and fire-return interval on basal area increment growth. Fire-return interval impacted stand structure and longleaf pine population structure. Our results suggest that recruitment from the bolting stage to later stages may become adversely affected with very frequent fires (e.g., every 1 or 2 years). Although adult tree productivity was negatively impacted during fire years, tree growth during years between fire events was resilient such that growth did not differ significantly among fire-return intervals. Our study shows that the longleaf pine population as a whole is strongly regulated by fire and fire-return interval plays a key role in structuring this population.
Resilience of Athabascan subsistence systems to interior Alaska’s changing climateThis article is one of a selection of papers from The Dynamics of Change in Alaska’s Boreal Forests: Resilience and Vulnerability in Response to Climate Warming.
Authors: Kofinas Gary P. , Chapin F. Stuart , BurnSilver Shauna , Schmidt Jennifer I. , Fresco Nancy L. , Kielland Knut , Martin Stephanie , Springsteen Anna , Rupp T. Scott
Published: July 2010

Subsistence harvesting and wild food production by Athabascan peoples is part of an integrated social–ecological system of interior Alaska. We describe effects of recent trends and future climate change projections on the boreal ecosystem of interior Alaska and relate changes in ecosystem services to Athabascan subsistence. We focus primarily on moose, a keystone terrestrial subsistence resource of villages in that region. Although recent climate change has affected the boreal forest, moose, and Athabascan moose harvesting, a high dependence by village households on moose persists. An historical account of 20th century socioeconomic changes demonstrates that the vulnerability of Athabascan subsistence systems to climatic change has in some respects increased while at the same time has improved aspects of village resilience. In the face of future climate and socioeconomic changes, communities have limited but potentially effective mitigation and adaptation opportunities. The extent to which residents can realize those opportunities depends on the responsiveness of formal and informal institutions to local needs. For example, increases in Alaska’s urban population coupled with climate-induced habitat shifts may increase hunting conflicts in low-moose years. This problem could be mitigated through adaptive co-management strategies that project future moose densities and redirect urban hunters to areas of lower conflict.
Long-term monitoring of climatic and nutritional affects on tree growth in interior Alaska
Authors: Yarie J. , Van Cleve K.
Published: July 2010

The comparative analysis of a large set of long-term fertilization and thinning studies in the major forest types of interior Alaska is summarized. Results indicate that nutrient limitations may only occur during the early spring growth period, after which moisture availability is the primary control of tree growth on warm sites. The temperature dynamics of both air and soil set seasonal bounds on the nutrient and moisture dynamics for all forest types. Air and soil temperature limitations are the primary control of intraseasonal growth in the colder topographic locations in interior Alaska. These locations are usually dominated by black spruce (Picea mariana (Mill.) Britton, Sterns, Poggenb.) vegetation types. The seasonal progression of factors controlling growth is strongly tied to the state factor structure of the landscape.
AN ALTERNATIVE APPROACH TO INSTITUTIONAL ANALYSIS IN STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT IN CHINA
Authors: ZHU ZHIXI , WANG HUIZHI , XU HE , BAI HONGTAO
Published: July 2010

This paper advocates a modification of the impact-based approach to strategic environmental assessment (SEA) which seems unable to address institutional weaknesses in most conventional SEA cases in China. It identifies a possible alternative approach, i.e. an impact-centred SEA with institutional components, and presents an analytical framework for institutional analysis, including a four-phase methodology to address and improve institutional weaknesses. Subsequently, the analytical framework is applied to an SEA pilot for a provincial transport plan in China. The case study demonstrates (1) that the proposed approach is adequate even in relatively fixed SEA processes; and (2) that the components and the logical relationships among factors elaborated on in the analytical framework are reasonable. In addition, the components of the framework that need to be improved and the perspectives for future application are discussed.
The Rockalliidae, a new family of Cainozoic Cytheracean Ostracoda
Authors: Whatley Robin , Uffenorde Henning , Harlow Christopher , Downing Sian , Kesler Karin
Published: July 2010

Abstract. The Rockalliadae, a new family of Cytheracean Ostracoda, is erected based on Rockallia Whatley, Frame & Whittaker, 1978 and an undescribed genus from the Tertiary of Argentinian Patagonia. Rockallia, hitherto monotypic, is augmented by the description herein of five new species: R. eocenica, R. vscripta and R. inceptiocelata from the Eocene, Neogene and Quaternary of the S.W. Pacific respectively and R. woutersi and R. sp. from the Oligocene and Miocene of N.W. Europe. The older species seem to have lived in relatively shallow water while the younger species are exclusively bathyal and abyssal. The genus is rediagnosed and its origins, evolutionary development and dispersal are discussed.
Detecting radiolaria in the field
Authors: Haslett Simon K. , Robinson Paul D.
Published: July 2010

Abstract. Radiolaria can be preserved in all types of marine sedimentary rocks, the method for their extraction being dependent on the mineralogy of the radiolarian test and the nature of the rock-type in which they occur. In the past radiolaria could only be viewed in thin section (Hinde, 1890; Hinde & Fox, 1895), with no method of detecting the presence of radiolaria prior to sectioning. Modern extraction techniques are normally laboratory based and use hazardous chemicals, therefore it is advantageous to establish the radiolarian content of the sample before collection and transportation back to the laboratory. This can be achieved in a number of ways:-1. Non-lithified sediments. Radiolaria are separated from the sediment by washing the sample over a set of small sieves. Two mesh sizes should be used, a coarse mesh around 150μm to separate large litho-fragments, and a fine mesh no greater than 63μm to concentrate the radiolaria. The fine fraction is then washed with dilute hydrochloric acid (HCl) to eliminate the calcareous microfossils, leaving a pure radiolarian sludge, which is dried on filter paper.2. Siliceous rock-types. Methods for extracting radiolaria from cherts have been in use since the early 1970’s (Dumitrica, 1970; Pessagno & Newport, 1972), and have recently been applied to field-work (Cordey & Krauss, 1990). The recognition of fossiliferous bedded cherts is possible with the use of a hand-lens in good sunlight. If radiolaria are present, they should be detectable as small protrusions, especially along laminae. To extract the radiolaria, break up the sample. . .
On the Tertiary genus Soudanella Apostolescu (1961) (Ostracoda, Crustacea)
Authors: Reyment Richard A. , Aranki Josef F.
Published: July 2010

Abstract. The mainly Paleogene ostracod genus Soudanella Apostolescu (1961) is revised and quantitative aspects of its variability analysed by multivariate and geometric statistical methods. The role of ornamental polymorphism in the genus is considered, but dismissed on the weight of evidence, albeit indirect, for true specific identity of each of the three forms. The palaeo-biogeographical importance of Soudanella is reviewed.
Dinoflagellate cysts from the Oxfordian (Upper Jurassic) of Skye, Scotland and Southern Dorset, England
Authors: Stancliffe R. P. W.
Published: July 2010

Abstract. Ten sediment samples from Upper Oxfordian strata of Skye and six from the uppermost Lower Oxfordian of southern Dorset were processed for palynomorphs. Of the dinoflagellate cysts recognized, the genus Furzidinium and species F. sentum, Cleistosphaeridium sarmentum and Prolixosphaeridium floccum are described for the first time. The new combination Polygonium bavarica is proposed and Cleistosphaeridium ehrenbergii is retained.
Albian calcareous nannofossils from the Gault Clay of Munday’s Hill (Bedfordshire, England)
Authors: Crux Jason A.
Published: July 2010

Abstract. Abundant and diverse Middle and Upper Albian nannofossil assemblages are present in the Gault Clay exposed at Munday’s Hill, Bedfordshire, England. The section was deposited between the first appearance datums of Tranolithus orionatus and Eiffellithus turriseiffeli. This interval can be further subdivided, using the last appearance of Braloweria boletiformis and the first appearances of Axopodorhabdus albianus, Owenia hilli sp. nov. and Eiffellithus monechiae sp. nov.The presence of Braloweria boletiformis, Ceratolithina hamata and Gaarderella granulifera, only at this and other north-west European localities, defines a unique endemic nannofloral province. Low latitude species are present throughout the studied section and first and last appearance datums of species are nearly synchronous, both at Munday’s Hill and in other areas. This indicates continuous marine connections between Munday’s Hill and low latitude areas through the Mid and Late Albian.Abundance patterns of high latitude nannofossils, primarily Repagulum parvidentatum and Seribiscutum primitivum, suggest that relatively cold waters dominated in the Munday’s Hill area near the base of the Middle Albian. The abundance of high latitude taxa gradually decreased towards the end of the Middle Albian, but temporarily increased at the base of the Upper Albian. The abundance of high latitude taxa was relatively low throughout the lower half of the Upper Albian and intermediate to low in the upper half of the Upper Albian.Two new genera, Braloweria gen. nov. and Owenia gen. nov., and two new species, Owenia hilli sp. nov. and Eiffellithus monechiae sp. nov., are described.
New species of the ostracod genus Neosinocythere Huang (1985) from the Indo-West Pacific Region
Authors: Zhao Quanhong , Whatley Robin
Published: July 2010

Abstract. Four new species of the ostracod genus Neosinocythere are described from the Indo-West Pacific region: N. indica, N. macropunctata, N. micropunctata and N. indowestpacifica. The diagnoses of Neosinocythere and the subfamily Sinocytherinae Huang are emended.
A land plant microfossil assemblage of Mid Silurian age from the Stonehaven Group, Scotland
Authors: Wellman Charles
Published: July 2010

Abstract. Land plant microfossils recovered from the Stonehaven Group near Stonehaven, Scotland comprise sporomorphs (cryptospores and miospores) and plant fragments (tubular structures and cuticle-like sheets). A new species of hilate cryptospore, Hispanaediscus lamontii sp. nov., is proposed. The sporomorph assemblage indicates a late Wenlock, or possibly earliest Ludlow age and is interpreted as accumulating in a continental environment. The new age constraint suggests that the Stonehaven Group is not in continuous succession with overlying “Lower Old Red Sandstone” deposits and should be treated separately. The assemblage provides important information regarding the composition of Mid Silurian continental plant microfossil assemblages and indicates that the vegetation comprised few taxa and was cosmopolitan.
Note on the use of hydrofluoric acid for the recovery of conodonts from Ordovician cherts in the Southern Uplands of Scotland and the significance of the conodonts
Authors: Etherington Raymond L. , Austin Ronald L.
Published: July 2010

Abstract. Procedures have been described for the recovery of conodonts from cherts by dissolution in hydrofluoric acid (see Stone, 1987 for a review), but this technique rarely has been applied. Cherts are more widely distributed in southern Scotland than are limestones which have been the focus of most research on conodonts. The HF technique thus opens a new and possibly more widely applicable avenue for conodont research for southern Scotland than the traditional methods.Ordovician conodonts on the surfaces of red cherts were reported from several localities near Peebles by Lamont and Lindström (1957), and the same authors found conodonts in yellow silt-stones interbedded with cherts south of Abington. These localities were visited to obtain samples that we believed to have a high probability of containing conodonts in order to test the HF procedure on Scottish rocks. We found conodonts in red rocks like those reported by Lamont and Lindström at their Noblehouse and Ruddenleys localities. Unfortunately the rocks there are not cherts as they reported, but are red mudstones instead. Such rocks are not amenable to the HF techniques.Microscopic examination of grey cherts collected loose below Ravengill Burn (Grid Reference 26/921199, one of Lamont and Lindstrom’s localities) showed that they contained radiolaria, a common fossil in the cherts of Scotland. Small pieces of these cherts, aggregating about 50 g, were placed in dilute (10% by volume) HF. The acid was decanted episodically after periods ranging from 8 hours to 73 hours, and the undissolved material was wet-screened through a . . .
Biostratigraphy and palaeoenvironmental analysis of a Lower to Middle Jurassic succession on Anholt, Denmark
Authors: Seidenkrantz Marit-Solveig , Koppelhus Eva Bundgaard , Ravn-Sørensen Helle
Published: July 2010

Abstract. Palynomorph and foraminiferal assemblages have been studied from the Upper Pliensbachian to Bathonian of a borehole section on the island of Anholt in the Kattegat, situated near the eastern margin of the Norwegian-Danish Basin. Palynomorphs were recorded throughout the succession and have been used for both biostratigraphical and palaeoenvironmental assessments. Foraminifera were recorded from only the lower part of the succession, where they proved useful for interpreting palaeoenvironments. Four palynomorph and three foraminiferal zones have been established.The interval encompasses a palaeoenvironmental transition from a marine, inner shelf setting to mainly terrestrial conditions. The Upper Pliensbachian-Toarcian boundary marks the beginning of a major regression, which continued through the Toarcian and Aalenian. Hence, it took place significantly earlier at Anholt than in the centre of the Norwegian-Danish Basin, where a lowering of sea level did not occur until the late Toarcian.The Jurassic succession on Anholt spans the Fjerritslev and Haldager Sand formations; biostratigraphical data indicate that the Lower-Middle Jurassic boundary is here located within the uppermost part of the Fjerritslev Formation. The Fjerritslev and Haldager Sand formational transition was previously considered to coincide with the Lower-Middle Jurassic boundary.