bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Iloprost Prevents Contrast-Induced Nephropathy in Patients With Renal Dysfunction Undergoing Coronary Angiography or Intervention
Authors: Spargias Konstantinos , Adreanides Elias , Demerouti Eftihia , Gkouziouta Angeliki , Manginas Athanassios , Pavlides Gregory , Voudris Vassilis , Cokkinos Dennis V.
Published: October 2009

Background—

The prevention of contrast-induced nephropathy, which accounts for considerable morbidity and mortality, remains a vexing problem. Contrast-induced renal vasoconstriction is believed to play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of contrast-induced nephropathy. The aim of this study was to examine the efficacy of the prostacyclin analog iloprost in preventing contrast-induced nephropathy in patients with renal dysfunction undergoing a coronary procedure.

Methods and Results—

We conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of iloprost in 208 patients with a serum creatinine concentration ≥1.4 mg/dL who underwent coronary angiography and/or intervention. Iloprost 1 ng · kg
−1
· min
−1
or placebo was administered intravenously beginning 30 to 90 minutes before and ending 4 hours after the procedure. Contrast-induced nephropathy was defined by an absolute increase in serum creatinine ≥0.5 mg/dL or a relative increase ≥25% measured 2 to 5 days after the procedure. Contrast-induced nephropathy occurred in 23 of the 105 patients (22%) in the control group and in 8 of the 103 patients (8%) in the iloprost group (odds ratio, 0.29; 95% confidence interval, 0.12 to 0.69;
P
=0.005). In the control group, the estimated glomerular filtration rate declined from 49.7±15.5 to 46.6±16.6 mL · min
−1
· 1.73 m
−2
(
P
=0.01). In the iloprost group, the estimated glomerular filtration rate increased marginally from 47.5±14.5 to 48.6±16.1 mL · min
−1
· 1.73 m
−2
(
P
=0.26). The mean absolute estimated glomerular filtration rate decline in the control group was greater than its change in the iloprost group (difference, 4.2 mL · min
−1
· 1.73 m
−2
; 95% confidence interval, 1.1 to 7.3;
P
=0.008).

Conclusion—

Prophylactic administration of iloprost may protect against contrast-induced nephropathy in high-risk patients undergoing a coronary procedure.
On the Effects of Signal Acuity in a Multi-Alternative Model of Decision Making
Authors: McMillen Tyler , Behseta Sam
Published: October 2009

We consider the effects of signal sharpness or acuity on the performance of neural models of decision making. In these models, a vector of signals is presented, and the subject must decide which of the elements of the vector is the largest. McMillen and Holmes ( 2006 ) derived asymptotically optimal tests under the assumption that the elements of the signal vector were all equal except one. In this letter, we consider the case of signals spread around a peak. The acuity is a measure of how strongly peaked the signal is. We find that the optimal test is one in which the detectors are passed through an output layer that encodes knowledge of the possible shapes of the incoming signals. The incorporation of such an output layer can lead to significant improvements in decision-making tasks.
Derivatives of Logarithmic Stationary Distributions for Policy Gradient Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Morimura Tetsuro , Uchibe Eiji , Yoshimoto Junichiro , Peters Jan , Doya Kenji
Published: October 2009

Most conventional policy gradient reinforcement learning (PGRL) algorithms neglect (or do not explicitly make use of) a term in the average reward gradient with respect to the policy parameter. That term involves the derivative of the stationary state distribution that corresponds to the sensitivity of its distribution to changes in the policy parameter. Although the bias introduced by this omission can be reduced by setting the forgetting rate γ for the value functions close to 1, these algorithms do not permit γ to be set exactly at γ = 1. In this article, we propose a method for estimating the log stationary state distribution derivative (LSD) as a useful form of the derivative of the stationary state distribution through backward Markov chain formulation and a temporal difference learning framework. A new policy gradient (PG) framework with an LSD is also proposed, in which the average reward gradient can be estimated by setting γ = 0, so it becomes unnecessary to learn the value functions. We also test the performance of the proposed algorithms using simple benchmark tasks and show that these can improve the performances of existing PG methods.
Spirituality: The Legacy of Parapsychology
Authors: Walach Harald , Kohls Niko , Von Stillfried Nikolaus , Hinterberger Thilo , Schmidt Stefan
Published: October 2009

Spirituality is a topic of recent interest. Mindfulness, for example, a concept derived from the Buddhist tradition, has captivated the imagination of clinicians who package it in convenient intervention programs for patients. Spirituality and religion have been researched with reference to potential health benefits. Spirituality can be conceptualised as the alignment of the individual with the whole, experientially, motivationally and in action. For spirituality to unfold its true potential it is necessary to align this new movement with the mainstream of science, and vice versa. Hence, both a historical review, and a systematic attempt at integration is called for, which we are trying to give here. It is useful to go back to one of the roots: parapsychology. Parapsychology was founded as a counter movement to the rising materialist paradigm in the 19th century. Adopting the methods of the natural sciences, it tried to prove the direct influence of consciousness on matter. After 125 years this mission must be declared unaccomplished. Surveying the database of parapsychological research it is obvious that it will not convince sceptics: Although there are enough exceptional findings, it has in general not been possible to reproduce them in replication experiments. This is, however, a characteristic signature of a category of effects which we call effects of generalised entanglement, predicted by a theoretical model analogous to quantum theory. Using this perspective, parapsychological effects can be understood, and the original aim of the founding fathers can be recovered, as well as a new, systematic understanding of spirituality be gained. Generalised entanglement is a formal and scientific way of explaining spirituality as alignment of an individual with a whole, which, according to the model, inevitably leads to non-local correlations.
New Questions for Neuroscientific Inquiry: Commentary on “Spirituality: The Legacy of Parapsychology”
Authors: Azari Nina
Published: October 2009

This paper inspires new questions, possibilities, and challenges for the scientific study of spirituality, and other experiential phenomena. First, the authors offer a refreshing conceptualization of spirituality, one that is similar to that proposed for, and supported by recent neuroscientific study of, religious experience. To what extent are spirituality and religious experience similar at the neural descriptive level? How might they be different? Second, the authors draw creatively upon Weak Quantum Theory to suggest a potentially useful and powerful theoretical model—generalized entanglement—to account for/describe spirituality, parapsychology, and possibly other experiential phenomena. This framework has potential not only to legitimize the study of such phenomena within ‘mainstream science’ (without compromising valuable holistic understandings), but also guide new scientific inquiry on spirituality and other experiential phenomena. To what extent, though, must ‘scientific’ paradigms and assumptions be re-imagined to pursue such studies? Ultimately, this paper raises challenging questions regarding the identity of ‘science’ today, the answers to which (or, at least, serious reflection upon) are needed to forward meaningful inquiry of spirituality (or any other topic). What is the ‘job’ (and, thus, interpretive limits) of ‘science’ today (e.g., explanation, description, proving ‘reality-existence’ of ‘objects’ of study)? Do all ‘sciences’ hold the same set of assumptions/have the same interpretive limits? To what extent is ‘mainstream science’ monolithic?
Christianity, Paranormal Belief and Personality: A Study among 13- to 16-year-old Pupils in England and Wales
Authors: Francis Leslie J. , Williams Emyr , Robbins Mandy
Published: October 2009

Studies concerning the changing landscapes of religiosity and spirituality in the lives of young people in England and Wales draw attention to decline in traditional religiosity and to growth in alternative spiritualities. The present study examined whether such alternative spiritualities occupy the same personality space as traditional religiosity. A sample of 2,950 13- to 16-year-old pupils attending 11 secondary schools in England and Wales completed the Francis Scale of Attitude toward Christianity and an index of paranormal belief, alongside the abbreviated-form Junior Eysenck Personality Questionnaire Revised. The data demonstrated that these two forms of belief were related in different ways to Eysenck's dimensional model of personality space. While attitude toward Christianity occupied the space defined by low psychoticism scores (tender-mindedness) and high lie scale scores (social conformity), paranormal belief was related to high psychoticism scores (toughmindedness) and was independent of lie scale scores. These findings support the view that alternative spiritualities may be associated with different personalities.
Introducing the Modified Paranormal Belief Scale: Distinguishing between Classic Paranormal Beliefs, Religious Paranormal Beliefs and Conventional Religiosity among Undergraduates in Northern Ireland and Wales
Authors: Williams Emyr , Francis Leslie , Lewis Christopher A.
Published: October 2009

Previous empirical studies concerned with the association between paranormal beliefs and conventional religiosity have produced conflicting evidence. Drawing on Rice's (2003) distinction between classic paranormal beliefs and religious paranormal beliefs, the present study proposed a modified form of the Tobacyk Revised Paranormal Belief Scale to produce separate scores for these two forms of paranormal belief, styled ‘religious paranormal beliefs’ and ‘classic paranormal beliefs’. Data provided by a sample of 143 undergraduate students in Northern Ireland and Wales, who completed the Francis Scale of Attitude toward Christianity alongside the Tobacyk Revised Paranormal Belief Scale, demonstrated that conventional religiosity is positively correlated with religious paranormal beliefs, but independent of classic paranormal beliefs. These findings provide a clear framework within which previous conflicting evidence can be interpreted. It is recommended that future research should distinguish clearly between these two forms of paranormal beliefs and that the Tobacyk Revised Paranormal Beliefs Scale should be routinely modified to detach the four religious paranormal belief items from the total scale score.
Reports of Paranormal Experiences: Can Transliminality Tell us Anything about Them?
Authors: Thalbourne Michael A.
Published: October 2009

The psychology of belief in the paranormal has often been used to stigmatize believers but it has also been used with a more open-minded approach. This paper describes some research of this kind in which believers were found to report more mystical experience, have more creative personalities, report more manic and depressive experience, and more magical ideation, unwittingly suggesting a link with bipolar disorder and schizotypal personality. In addition, however, these six variables were all found to correlate positively and significantly with each other. The positive manifold suggested a single underlying factor, which indeed emerged from principal components analysis. It was speculated that the underlying factor was “transliminality”—a gating mechanism modulating the flow of information and affect from subliminal levels into supraliminal. Later studies have not as clearly confirmed the existence of the positive manifold but nevertheless the concept of transliminality may be a useful one for understanding paranormal experience and hence paranormal belief.
The Impact of Positive and Negative Spiritual Experiences on Distress and the Moderating Role of Mindfulness
Authors: Kohls Niko , Walach Harald , Lewith George
Published: October 2009

Both spiritual experiences and mindfulness as a psychological variable have been identified as components of wellbeing and health. As there is uncertainty about their relationship, we have investigated the impact of spiritual experiences and mindfulness as well as their interaction on distress in chronically ill patients. The unidimensional Daily Spiritual Experiences Scale (DSES), the multidimensional Exceptional Experiences Questionnaire (EEQ), the Freiburg Mindfulness Inventory (FMI), and the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI) were administered to 109 chronically ill patients. Fifty-eight patients (53%) reported regular and frequent spiritual or contemplative practice from different traditions over an average of 14.7 years (SD = 13.7). Patients with regular spiritual practice reported more positive spiritual experiences, were more mindful and less distressed (p < .001). A stepwise linear regression analysis revealed that the EEQ subscale “negative spiritual experiences” (NSE) was the most important single predictor for psychological distress (R2=.38; β=.63). In contrast, both the EEQ subscale “positive spiritual experiences” as well as the DSES that also captures positives daily encounters with a transcendental realm or entity did not account for a significant amount of variance in distress. Further analysis of the regression model (R2=.57), confirmed that NSE was still the largest predictor for distress (β=.61) and that mindfulness (β=–.38) and the interaction between mindfulness and NSE (β=–.23) were the most important buffers protecting individuals from distress. Thus, mindfulness seems not only to be a clinically important protective factor for buffering generic distress, but particularly for distress derived from NSEs. This suggests that in addition to directly facilitating well-being and health by means of positive spiritual experiences, at least some form of regular spiritual or meditative techniques seem to endow an individual with a certain degree of resilience against negative spiritual experiences that is likely a consequence of increased mindfulness. If these findings are vindicated by further studies, spiritual experiences should not be conceived and measured as univariate but rather multivariate constructs.
Recent Developments in the Reform of English Law on Assisted Suicide
Authors: Shaw Julia
Published: October 2009

Assisted suicide remains a deeply contested issue in the UK. Recently three Assisted Dying for the Terminally Ill Bills were introduced in a three year period, all of which failed. Despite the provision of clear and precise safeguards, at each reading the House of Lords fixed largely on the traditional slippery slope and sanctity of life positions; a disproportionate reliance on theological determinism in particular prevented informed rational debate. People are living longer often with chronic, incurable diseases and palliative care is frequently of poor quality or even unavailable in the UK and it is unacceptable that individuals 'suffering unbearably' in their final days have no available domestic alternative. Yet the courts have consistently declined to prosecute in cases where friends and relatives have accompanied terminally ill persons abroad to die, against the provisions of the 1961 Suicide Act s2(1). This article critically assesses recent developments in English law on assisted dying and considers the implications for a more inclusive and reasoned debate in the future.
Mail-Order Trade in Medicines in Europe — A Guide for Legislators to Protect Consumers
Authors: Seeberg-Elverfeldt Niels-J.
Published: October 2009

This article discusses mail-order trade in medicines. It explains why this trade has developed and why there is a need for strict safety standards. The European Court of Justice obliged member states to allow such trade in non prescription medicines but did not specify any safety standards. The 2007 resolution of the Council of Europe lays these down precisely. An analysis of the legal situation in the 30 EU and EEA states shows that they increasingly permit this trade. However, there are considerable deficits as regards the necessary safety standards. To protect consumers from illegal medicine sales via the internet, they should be able to easily identify legal products online. Legislators should act accordingly.
The mental gland of Bolitoglossa nicefori (Caudata: Plethodontidae)
Authors: González-León Ezequiel , Ramírez-Pinilla Martha Patricia
Published: October 2009

The mental gland of the plethodontid salamander Bolitoglossa nicefori was examined by macroscopic observation and light microscopy and compared with morphological descriptions of other species of Plethodontidae. The mental gland is an oval shaped pad which develops exclusively in reproductive males. It is composed of 255 to 710 simple glands of merocrine secretion arranged in a dorso-ventral disposition. The outlets of the glands are spindle-shaped or fusiform. Negative stain reaction for AB and PAS is consistent with results of the glandular components of mental glands from other Plethodontidae. Males of this species produce sperm continuously throughout the year: all examined adult males showed conspicuous mental glands. However, an evident and significant increase in the surface area of the mental gland pad, in the density of the glands, and in the number of tubular glands was observed in the males collected during the breeding season. At the histological level, a slight variation was observed among males in the height and diameter of the simple tubular glands, and significant variation was found in the diameter of the secretory granules. This variation may reflect the fact that, although males potentially can mate during all months of the year, females oviposit seasonally. During this defined season, the hypertrophy of the mental gland is the greatest.
Predation pressure, density-induced stress and tail regeneration: a casual-nexus situation or a bunch of independent factors?
Authors: Tsasi Gerasimia , Valakos Efstratios , Simou Chrysi , Pafilis Panayiotis
Published: October 2009

Caudal autotomy, the self-induced tail shedding from the body, is a common defensive strategy in lizards. Tail loss is followed rapidly by regeneration, revealing the importance of a fully functional tail. Predation pressure has been traditionally correlated with autotomy performance. However there is a lack of evidence regarding the impact of predation regime on tail regeneration. Another important factor that has been neglected is the population density. Though it is well established that crowding alters various life-history traits, the impact of density on caudal regeneration remains understudied. In this paper we compared three island populations of the Aegean Wall Lizard (Podarcis erhardii) that have evolved under different levels of predation pressure: whereas the Naxos population is exposed to numerous predators the Kopries and Daskalio islet populations experience low predation pressure. To evaluate the effect of density-induced stress on caudal regeneration, lizards were treated under two conditions of housing, in single and crowded (six individuals) terraria. Tail sheding occurred prior to this treatment following a standardised method. The length of regenerated tail was recorded weekly. Regeneration rate was higher in single terraria when compared to crowded, reflecting the negative impact of crowding. However we failed to detect any statistically significant difference between single and crowded terraria in the case of Naxos. We believe that the underlying reason must be the heavy predation pressure under which rapid tail regeneration, even under unfavourable conditions, is crucial for survival. It seems that the imperious need for regeneration counteracts density-induced stress.
Testing the competitive exclusion principle using various niche parameters in a native (Natrix maura) and an introduced (N. tessellata) colubrid
Authors: Ursenbacher Sylvain , Christe Philippe , Metzger César
Published: October 2009

Despite the increase of animal and plant introductions worldwide and the strong augmentation of the reptile trade, few invasive snake populations have been studied. Dice snakes (Natrix tessellata) were introduced to the shores of Lake Geneva (Switzerland) in the early 1920s, and are now well established. This region of introduction was previously inhabited by Viperine snakes (N. maura). Ever since these two species have been under monitoring (which began in 1996) the Viperine snake population has shown drastic decline. We examine here the possibility of trophic competition by analysing diet composition, prey size and trophic niche overlap. Spatial distribution is also assessed in order to address the question of spatial competitive exclusion. We found very similar diets, and thus a high trophic niche overlap, indicating no partitioning of the trophic resource. No arguments in favour of spatial competitive exclusion were found. Our study suggests that trophic competition may occur between the two natricines and that it may give an explanation for the drastic decline of the Viperine snake in this area. Other pathways potentially playing a role in the exclusion of the Viperine snake are discussed.
Diet of Hydromedusa tectifera (Testudines-Chelidae) in a mountain stream of Córdoba province, Argentina
Authors: Lescano Julián , Bonino Marcelo , Leynaud Gerardo , Haro José
Published: October 2009

The diet of Hydromedusa tectifera occurring in two mountain streams in the province of Córdoba is described through a comparative analysis of 154 individuals. Turtles were manually captured between August 2005 and August 2006 from streams at the localities of Tanti and Flor Serrana. Before being released, turtles were stomach-flushed, and sex and carapace length were recorded. The stomach contents were observed under stereomicroscope; prey items were identified and classified according to size and volume. The importance of the different items was quantified using the Index of Relative Importance (IRI). Similarity in the diet between sexes and among size classes and seasons of an annual cycle was evaluated using the simplified Morisita index. Trophic breadth was estimated with the Shannon diversity index. Detrended Correspondence Analysis (DCA) was used to evaluate differences in the diet between categories (sex, size classes). Forty-seven food items belonging to the following taxa were identified: leeches, annelids, gastropods, arachnids, insects, and fishes. According to the IRI value, the most important items in the diet of H. tectifera were larvae of Trichoptera (IRI = 33.5), fishes (IRI = 30), and naiads of Odonata (IRI = 25.2). The relative importance of the items varied with size of turtles but not with sex. Size of prey consumed increased with increasing turtle size. A greater trophic breadth was observed in smaller individuals.
Different habitats, different pressures? Analysis of escape behaviour and ectoparasite load in Podarcis sicula (Lacertidae) populations in different agricultural habitats
Authors: Corti Claudia , Biaggini Marta , Berti Roberto
Published: October 2009

Human agricultural activities can deeply alter the environment thus provoking major impacts on a variety of organisms. Agricultural habitats however can be very different from one another in terms of habitat structure and management intensity, presenting varying pressures and/or benefits for different species. Agro-ecosystems can have opposing effects on reptiles and in some circumstances the presence of a species can even been enhanced by agricultural practices. We focused our study on Podarcis sicula, a relatively widespread lacertid lizard commonly present in agro-environments in Italy. We examined escape behaviour, caudal autotomy rates and ectoparasite load (tick infestation) in populations living in two different land uses, olive tree plantations and vineyards. All three aspects seemed to be deeply influenced by habitat structure. Predation pressure, as evaluated by tail break frequency, was lower in olive tree plantations, the most structurally complex habitats. In this type of habitat lizard escape behaviour was characterised by a clear preference for olive trees as refuges: individuals ran farther distances on average to reach the trees and hid inside them for a relatively long time. In vineyards, on the contrary, a less clear escape strategy was observed, showing a use of more temporary refuges. Also tick (Ixodes ricinus) infestation differed among land uses, being higher in olive tree plantations, probably in relation to vegetation cover features. Differences were found also between managements (with a higher tick load in traditional cultivations) and sexes, with males being more parasitized.
How many Archaeolacerta inhabit the Corso-Sardinian Plate? Allozyme variation and differentiation in Archaeolacerta bedriagae (Camerano, 1885)
Authors: Bologna Marco , Capula Massimo , Salvi Daniele , Bombi Pierluigi
Published: October 2009

Archaeolacerta bedriagae is a rock lizard endemic to Corsica and Sardinia. Four subspecies have been recozied to date on the basis of morphological traits. Previous allozyme investigations revealed high genetic differentiation among populations of the species. Based on these results some authors hypothesized that more than one species of Archaeolacerta may occur on Corsica and Sardinia. In this paper we investigated allozyme variation at 19 gene loci in 5 populations belonging to all subspecies of A. bedriagae in order to study genetic differentiation among populations from Corsica and Sardinia, and to compare our results with those obtained in previous studies carried out on allozyme variation and taxonomy of the species. Low levels of genetic differentiation (average Nei's D = 0.026) and heterogeneity (mean FST = 0.147) were found comparing the A. bedriagae populations, and there was no evidence of interruption or restriction of gene flow. This is in agreement with the available molecular and morphometric data, while it is not in accordance with allozyme data reported in the previous studies. Our data do not support the hypothesis of an unrecognized criptic species of Archaeolacerta in Corsica and Sardinia, and indicate that the definitive assessment of the taxonomic status of the A. bedriagae populations requires further investigation.
Conspicuous colouration of the vocal sac of a nocturnal chorusing treefrog: carotenoid-based?
Authors: Richardson Christina , Lengagne Thierry , Bellvert Floriant , Popovici Jean
Published: October 2009

In nocturnal chorusing anurans, mate choice has long been considered to be based exclusively on the highly conspicuous male calls. However an additional visual cue, the pulsing male vocal sac, has recently been shown to increase male attractiveness. In several species, including the European treefrog Hyla arborea, this organ is characterized by a bright orange colouration. In the present study, analysis of the pigments extracted from the vocal sacs of European treefrogs revealed the colouration of these organs to be based on several pigments, including three carotenoids, which are highly costly immune function enhancing molecules. This result raises the important question as to whether the carotenoid-based colouration of the vocal sac in H. arborea could constitute an additional visual cue used by females to discriminate male quality.
Relationships of Podarcis wall lizards from Algeria based on mtDNA data
Authors: Larbes Said , Harris D. James , Pinho Catarina , Lima Alexandra , Brito José Carlos , Carretero Miguel
Published: October 2009

Recent molecular studies indicate that Podarcis wall lizards occurring in the southern region of the Iberian Peninsula and in North Africa, from south Morocco to eastern Tunisia, constitute a monophyletic group composed of several highly differentiated forms that appear to be incipient species. However, Algerian populations, which are geographically intermediate, have not been investigated so far. In this study we determine the levels of genetic variability between Algerian populations and other North African populations, using a more extensive sampling scheme covering most of the distribution range in this area. Our results show that North African Podarcis present high genetic diversity, comprising at least five highly divergent lineages. Two of these lineages were only detected in Algeria, which harbours most of the genetic diversity found within Podarcis from North Africa.
Food habits of Brazilian boid snakes: overview and new data, with special reference to Corallus hortulanus
Authors: Pizzatto Lígia , Marques Otavio , Facure Kátia
Published: October 2009

This study examines the diet of eight boid snakes: Boa c. constrictor, Boa c. amarali, Corallus caninus, C. hortulanus, Epicrates cenchria, E. crassus, E. assisi and Eunectes murinus mainly by analyzing the gut contents of preserved museum specimens, and includes a literature review to present an overview of the diet of Brazilian boids. Mammals constitute the primary prey consumed by the majority of the species. Birds are also frequently consumed by C. hortulanus and Boa contrictor, and are the most important prey for B. c. amarali. Ectotherms (mostly lizards) were only consumed by immature snakes. Such prey is rarely consumed by B. c. amarali and not recorded for Epicrates and Eunectes species in our dissections. C. caninus is likely a mammal specialist and Epicrates prey on birds more opportunistically. The niche overlap index varied from 0.27-0.52 for species occurring in the same bioma and geographic range but it is possible this overlap is lower as most sympatric species explore different macrohabitat. C. hortulanus exhibited a significant relationship between prey size and predator head size; this relationship did not differ among mature and immature snakes. In comparison to immature individuals heavier adult snakes fed on heavier prey items however, the ratio between prey/predator mass decreased with increase in predator mass (or size). Most boids exploit diurnal and nocturnal preys, probably using both sit-and-wait and active tactics. They feed on the ground but boas and C. hortulanus and possibly E. cenchria also exploit arboreal prey.
Use of NCPA to understanding genetic sub-structuring of Podarcis lilfordi from the Balearic archipelago
Authors: Terrasa Bàrbara , Pérez-Mellado Valentín , Picornell Antònia , Castro José , Brown Richard , Rodríguez Virginia , Ramon M. Misericordia
Published: October 2009

Podarcis lilfordi is an endemic lizard found on islands and islets off the coast of Mallorca and Menorca (including the Cabrera archipelago) in the Balearic Islands, which is extinct on the two main islands themselves. Analyses of mtDNA revealed four unconnected parsimony networks. These represented (I) all Menorcan populations, (II) Dragonera, Malgrats and Toro islands (Western Mallorca), (III and IV) the remaining populations from Cabrera and Mallorca. We applied NCPA to evaluate its utility in understanding the genetic sub-structure. Within network I, contiguous range expansion was inferred for both main clades. Populations from western Mallorca (II) have undergone historical allopatric fragmentation events following isolation around the start of the Pleistocene. Clades within networks III and IV showed some allopatric fragmentation and restricted gene flow (isolation by distance) among islands from Cabrera, as well as long distance dispersal between the Cabrera archipelago and southern Mallorca. The NCPA strongly supports the importance of allopatric fragmentation, with some additional support for range expansion. The primary advantage of the NCPA approach was to provide statistical support for these inferences.
Natural interspecific hybridization in Odontophrynus (Anura: Cycloramphidae)
Authors: Lescano Julián , Marti Dardo , Baldo Diego , Pereyra Martín , Rosset Sergio
Published: October 2009

The frog genus Odontophrynus is a composite of diploid and tetraploid populations and species that are widely distributed in South America. Some of the several genetic studies on this group report the production of artificial hybrids but only a single case of natural hybridization has been documented, in southern Brazil. In this study we report the finding of an interspecific natural hybrid specimen in central Argentina. We present morphological and cytogenetical evidence that the diploid taxa Odontophrynus cordobae and O. occidentalis are the parental species. The hybrid genome exhibited problematic pairing and segregation of homeologue chromosomes during meiosis, and the production of non-reduced gametes.
Olfactory cues and breeding habitat selection in the natterjack toad, Bufo calamita
Authors: Joly Pierre , Sanuy Delfi
Published: October 2009

Whereas many amphibians use olfactory cues to detect aquatic habitats, less attention has been paid to the specificity of the information carried by these cues with respect to breeding habitat quality. In the present work, we address this question by taking advantage of the selectivity for specific breeding habitats exhibited by the natterjack toad (temporary waters, gravel pits). Toads were sampled from two populations located in semi-arid regions of the Iberic peninsula experiencing Mediterranean climate, and one population in a temperate region of France experiencing oceanic-continental climate. The choice was given in a maze between waters coming either from habitats known to be suitable for the species (temporary waters on an inorganic-dominated substratum) or from unsuitable habitats (ponds with eutrophic water or permanent water on organic-rich substratum). The toads from the temperate region exhibited a clear selection for water from the suitable habitat. In contrast, toads from the Mediterranean region did not show any preference, either when the waters came from their original region or when they came from the other region. These results show that toads can use chemical cues to discriminate specific habitats, allowing them to quickly find suitable habitat patches that are temporary and often spatially unpredictable. Variation between the two populations in the ability to select water quality is likely to be connected with habitat availability at the regional scale.
Morphological traits affect escape behaviour of the Balearic lizards (Podarcis lilfordi)
Authors: Cooper Jr. William , Pérez-Mellado Valentín , Hawlena Dror
Published: October 2009

Escape theory predicts that a prey should start escaping (flight initiation distance = FID) from a predator when the costs of fleeing and the cost staying are equal or until future fitness is maximized. Consequently, prey escape performances and current reproductive asset can affect FID. We tested effects of body condition, morphology, and whether the tail was regenerated or original on FID in the Balearic lizard (Podarcis lilfordi) by ourselves simulating predators. Lizards with better body condition had longer FID and lizards with longer intact tails had shorter FID. Lizards with regenerated tail presented shorter FID than lizards with intact tails. These results suggest that impaired escape performance is counterbalanced by fitness costs of tail regeneration or by alteration of escape behaviour. The weak association between morphology, body condition and FID suggest that escape performances and asset protection have relatively small effect on P. lilfordi escape decisions.
Parasitic infracommunities of the Aegean wall lizard Podarcis erhardii (Lacertidae, Sauria): isolation and impoverishment in small island populations
Authors: Foufopoulos  , Roca  , Valakos  , Pafilis
Published: October 2009

The Aegean wall lizard Podarcis erhardii, is widely distributed across the islands of the Aegean Sea (Greece). While there exists a relatively substantial body of knowledge on the ecology and life history of the species, the parasite communities of the taxon remain almost completely unknown. Quantifying the composition of these communities in P. erhardii is not only important for autoecological reasons, but also because inter-island comparisons of this lizard's parasite communities can shed light on the factors that structure parasite diversity in general. Here we investigate the gastrointestinal parasite communities of P. erhardii populations occurring on 16 landbridge islands of the Sporades group in the NW Aegean Sea by examining the gastrointestinal tracts of 113 lizards. In all, 8 species of helminths were found: 1 Trematode (Paradistomum mutabile), 1 Cestode (Oochoristica sp.) and 6 Nematodes (Parapharyngodon micipsae, Parapharyngodon bulbosus, Parapharyngodon echinatus, Spauligodon sp., Abbreviata sp., and Skrjabinelazia sp.). The prevalence, mean intensity, and mean abundance of infection were respectively 63.71%; 6.01 (±11.71; range 1-90); and 3.57 (±9.5; range 0-90). Brillouin's index of diversity for the Sporades was 0.048 (±0.13; range 0-0.142). These values were lower than for most other mainland and insular lacertid populations, and suggest that the investigated island populations harbor very depauperate helminth communities. The severe impoverishment of the parasite communities and the differential persistence of generalist parasite species with simple life cycles is most likely the result of a combination of insular environmental conditions (spatial and temporal isolation, arid climate, small host population sizes) and host life history characteristics (diet, simple gastrointestinal tract architecture). The paucity of parasites in these relictual island populations suggests that small reptile populations fragmented by anthropogenic activities may not be able to sustain their native parasite communities over the long term.
Defining the Outer Limits of the Continental Shelf across the Arctic Basin: The Russian Submission, States' Rights, Boundary Delimitation and Arctic Regional Cooperation
Authors: Weber Mel
Published: October 2009

The Russian submission to the Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf (CLCS) provides an excellent example of the difficulty faced by Arctic states in relation to their rights and claims as coastal states. The geology and geography of the Arctic submarine environment are complex and poorly understood. Political maritime boundaries for this semi-enclosed sea are incomplete. The agreed boundaries do not take into consideration the full potential of the legal continental shelves. Viewed against continental shelf issues, possible maritime boundary delimitations and the rights of states to engage in regional initiatives, it is apparent that the Russian submission has not prejudiced the rights of other states. Although the two functions are inherently related, the ability to delimit boundaries with adjacent and opposite states remains separate from the process undertaken by the CLCS.
Testing the Second-Order Factor Structure and Measurement Equivalence of the Wong and Law Emotional Intelligence Scale Across Gender and Ethnicity
Authors: Whitman Daniel S. , Van Rooy David L. , Viswesvaran Chockalingam , Kraus Eyran
Published: October 2009

The present study examined the measurement equivalence of a second-order factor model of emotional intelligence (EI). Using scores for 921 job applicants obtained during a personnel selection process, measurement equivalence of the Wong and Law Emotional Intelligence Scale (WLEIS) was tested across ethnic (Whites, Blacks, and Hispanics) and gender groups. Results (a) supported the four-dimension, second-order factor structure of EI and (b) indicated that scores on the WLEIS are comparable across gender and ethnic groups. Findings are discussed in the context of applied and research-based relevance.
Athletes’ Perceptions of Coaching Competency Scale II-High School Teams
Authors: Myers Nicholas D. , Chase Melissa A. , Beauchamp Mark R. , Jackson Ben
Published: October 2009

The purpose of this validity study was to improve measurement of athletes’ evaluations of their head coach’s coaching competency, an important multidimensional construct in models of coaching effectiveness. A revised version of the Coaching Competency Scale (CCS) was developed for athletes of high school teams (APCCS II-HST). Data were collected from athletes ( N = 748) of seven relevant sports. Athlete observations were clustered within teams ( G = 74). Multigroup confirmatory factor analyses of the asymptotic within-teams covariance matrix provided evidence for factorial invariance, except for one residual variance, by athlete gender ( nmale = 427, nfemale = 321). An exploratory multilevel confirmatory factor analysis provided evidence for close fit of an oblique five-factor within-teams structure and a one-factor between-teams structure.
An Exploratory Presence
Authors: Koser Nate
Published: October 2009

To begin to understand our experience, as well as the experience of others, we first need to nurture our abilities to remain authentically present. Presence is a fundamental component to a rich and vibrant life, as well as a deeply influential aspect to the process of psychotherapy. In this account, I will elucidate an experience of attempting to remain present to my own existential processes and the experiential ramifications of such an activity. I will also expand on the importance of engaged presence in the psychotherapeutic process.
Defining Dyslexia
Authors: Tunmer William , Greaney Keith
Published: October 2009

In 2007, the New Zealand Ministry of Education formally recognized the condition of dyslexia for the first time and has subsequently developed a working definition of the condition. The aim of this article is to draw on contemporary theory and research on reading development, reading difficulties, and reading intervention to describe what the authors believe are four key components of a definition of dyslexia/reading disability.They begin by discussing some preliminary factors that need to be considered in developing a definition of dyslexia. The authors then present the four components of their proposed definition, drawing on a framework for conceptualizing reading difficulties derived from the simple view of reading. They conclude by comparing their definition of dyslexia with the working definition put forward by the ministry.
Assessment of Computer-Based Preferences of Students With Profound Multiple Disabilities
Authors: Mechling Linda C. , Bishop Vanessa A.
Published: October 2009

This article reports on two studies investigating the use of computer-based stimuli that may then be used to develop activities and programming for students with profound multiple disabilities (PMD). Both studies used an alternating treatments design and systematic assessment strategy to present stimuli sequentially and to measure student responses to the varying computer-based stimuli. Study 1 compared student preferences for computer-based stimuli (individualized video programs and commercially available cause-and-effect software), which were then used in Study 2 to compare student preferences for stimuli presented on a traditional computer-based system and a large interactive whiteboard. Results support use of computer-based stimuli and video-based stimuli that may be used in the development and implementation of educational programs for students with PMD.
A Review of the Effects of Self-Monitoring on Reading Performance of Students With Disabilities
Authors: Joseph Laurice M. , Eveleigh Elisha L.
Published: October 2009

The purpose of this review was to synthesize the effects of self-monitoring methods on reading achievement for students with disabilities. Studies examining the self-monitoring of reading behaviors that were published in peer-reviewed journals from 1987 to 2008 were synthesized with regard to types of participants, settings, research designs, independent variables, dependent variables, and intervention effects. Effect sizes and percentages of nonoverlapping data were calculated to provide overall estimates of the magnitude of using self-monitoring methods to improve reading performance. Findings suggested that reading performance improved when self-monitoring methods were used. Among the many findings derived from this review, more studies explored the use of self-monitoring on comprehension skills than on other reading skills, and more studies included participants with learning disabilities (followed by students with emotional and behavioral disorders) than students with other types of disabilities. Limitations, directions for future research, and implications for practice are discussed.
A Profile of Paroling Authorities in America: The Strange Bedfellows of Politics and Professionalism
Authors: Paparozzi Mario A. , Caplan Joel M.
Published: October 2009

The use of discretionary decision making in parole has been the subject of much criticism over the past three decades. Whether it is either discretionary decision making per se or the context within which such decisions are made that is problematic is unknown. This article captures a profile of how paroling authorities are organized, how their members are appointed, and the work experience, training, and credential requirements that underpin the appointment process. The importance of the relationship between professionalism and discretionary decision making is discussed. Recommendations are made for future studies addressing the relationship between professional qualifications of paroling authority members and parole outcomes.
Distribution of Fiber Intersections in Two-Dimensional Random Fiber Webs — A Basic Geometrical Probability Model
Authors: Suh Moon W. , Heuiju Chun  , Berger Roger L. , Bloomfield Peter
Published: October 2009

Fundamental theories governing the number of fiber intersections in random nonwoven fiber webs were developed based on the planar geometry of fiber midpoints distributed in a two-dimensional Poisson field. First, the statistical expectation and variance for the number of fiber intersections in unit web area were obtained as functions of a fixed number of fibers with equal lengths. The theories were extended to the case of a two-dimensional Poisson field by assuming that the number and locations of the fibers are random. The theories are validated by a newly developed computer simulation method employing the concept of “seeding region” and “counting region.” Unlike all previously published papers, it was shown for the first time that the expectations and variances obtained theoretically matched that from computer simulations almost perfectly, validating both the theories and simulation algorithms developed.
Studies of Flexible Fiber Trajectory and Its Pneumatic Condensing Mechanism in Compact Spinning with Lattice Apron
Authors: Zhuan Yong Zou  , Yun De Zhu  , Zhi Hong Hua  , Yan Wang  , Long Di Cheng
Published: October 2009

A dynamic model of the infinitesimal element of the flexible fiber is proposed, which describes the flexible fiber trajectory in the condensing zone of compact spinning with lattice apron. Based on the flow simulation in the condensing zone, the flexible fiber trajectory is simulated by a specially designed Matlab program routine. The trajectories of the fibers of different initial positions can explain the pneumatic condensing mechanism in the condensing zone. The results show that fiber trajectories of different initial positions in the condensing zone gradually converge, and the condensing process of the fiber bundle is divided into three parts: the rapid condensing region, the adjustive condensing region and the steady condensing region. The fibers of different initial positions will be interlaced for position change in yarn cross-section, caused by the airflow in the condensing zone. Moreover, fibers will gradually close the surface of the lattice apron when fibers are delivered from the rapid condensing region to the steady condensing region.