bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sharks, Wildlife Tourism, and State Regulation
Authors: Dobson John
Published: May 2008

Research on the development of marine wildlife tourism has tended to focus on the growth and economic importance of the whale-watching industry and its management via self-regulation. However, a number of other species are also utilized as attractions by the marine wildlife tourism
industry. There has been increased targeting of a range of, potentially aggressive, shark species as attractions. Areas, such as South Africa [the Great White Shark (Carcharodon carcharias)], Florida and the Caribbean [Tiger sharks (Galeocerdo cuvier), Bull sharks (Carcharhinus
leucas), and Caribbean reef sharks (Carcharhinus perezi)] have developed shark-based tourism. This has raised numerous ethical objections, both anthropocentric and biocentric in nature, leading to the intervention by the state in the form of various regulatory frameworks. This article
utilizes a case study approach to assess the issues that surround the introduction of state regulation in South Africa and Florida in order to manage the shark-based tourism located there. The article highlights the complex issues facing those tasked with implementing state regulatory frameworks.
It concludes that the difficult task of attempting to integrate issues of stakeholder involvement, enforcement, and the balancing of anthropocentric and biocentric concerns results in any framework only being able to be seen as a "best fit" solution for managing shark-based tourism.
Could Yacht Tourism be an Alternative Tourism Potential in North Cyprus?
Authors: Biçak H. A. , Altinay M. , Aksugür E. , Günyakti A. , Katircioglu S.
Published: May 2008

Tourism is expanding all over the world despite the disputes and conflicts in a number of regions. In this growth, yacht tourism has a distinct contribution. The recent Master Plan of National Harbours and Shores prepared for North Cyprus emphasizes the potential contribution of yacht
tourism to the economic development of North Cyprus. In this respect, besides suggesting areas for building marinas, the plan examines the small fishing ports and makes suggestions in improving their infrastructures. North Cyprus, with its favorable climate, beautiful natural settings and
historical places, appears to be an ideal place for yacht tourism. Furthermore, the prospects of a solution for the island after the last year's initiatives of the UN directed attention towards the tourism sector for improving the economic development of North Cyprus. In this study, prospects
of yacht tourism, existing marinas, and potential coasts for building marinas and mooring spots in North Cyprus will be analyzed and suggestions will be made so as to not repeat the undesired experiences of other countries while benefiting from good examples.
Vulnerability of Coastal Resorts to Crises: Probable Scenarios and Recovery Strategies
Authors: Gunlu Ebru A. , Aktas Gurhan
Published: May 2008

This article investigates the importance of crisis management for coastal resorts. Holiday resorts involved in international tourism may be adversely affected by various crises caused by internal or external environmental factors. Despite all the efforts by a resort to control such crisis-causing factors, its growth may be impacted by negative events and their damaging affects on the tourism industry. This is why crisis management has increasingly become crucial for the planning and management of tourist destinations. The theoretical framework of this article includes the consequences of a crisis in coastal resorts, its impacts on their economy, and crisis–response strategies for decision makers. In addition, the article will comment on how problems can arise due to ad hoc solutions and how contingency plans and consistent training schemes can help destinations during difficult times. Finally, the article will emphasize the need for cooperative action during crises and also for aftermath recovery.
Advantages, Opportunities, and Policy Guidelines Concerning the Development of Timeshare Combined with Cruises in Greece and Turkey
Authors: Stavrinoudis Theodoros A.
Published: May 2008

The constant differentiation of the tourist demand taking place over the last few years has led tourism supply to a no less constant effort to enhance the product offered. The latter is often expressed through a combined development of individual tourism products. In this context, the
collaboration between neighboring tourism destination countries, which aims to offer two or more alternative forms of tourism combined, is considered a noteworthy strategic choice. This article presents the advantages and opportunities offered by such a choice and suggests appropriate policy
measures in order to achieve a combined development of timeshare with regards to the cruise industry in Greece and Turkey. It also demonstrates how the two alternative forms of tourism in question induce and stimulate mutual demand and generate benefits through the development of timeshare
selling and exchanging programs in cruise ships in both countries. Our study focuses on policy guidelines, because they are necessary for the integrated development of timeshare in cruise ships in Greece and Turkey.
Alternative Propulsion Systems for Environment Friendly Daily Excursion Type Leisure Boats
Authors: Ünsan Yalçin , Taylan Metin
Published: May 2008

Alternative energy systems are spreading rapidly around the world and are the hot topic for R&D studies in developed countries. This study aims at the adaptation of such "solar powered systems," which are economic and the most widespread among the alternative energy systems to leisure
boats used in Köycegiz Lake. It further aims at offering an alternative to the conventional systems that cause environmental pollution and establishing the use of such systems in marine transportation. There are about 2,000 boats running daily excursion tours along coastal waters of Turkey.
More than half of them operate in the Aegean Sea region. The number of boats in Köycegiz Dalyan itself is reaching to 350. Diesel engines on the boats operating in the region create a great deal of noise, air, and water pollution. In this work, relevant parameters of propulsion systems
powered by alternative and direct current and cost analysis have been investigated. Furthermore, alternative propulsion and powering systems were considered for the existing boats. Based on the results of this study, boat types, which may be used in other regions, having different hull forms
and solar powered propulsion systems, were also suggested.
Maritime Leisure Degree Development in the Northwest of England
Authors: Bonsall Stephen
Published: May 2008

The northwest region of England (UK) is home to 6.7 million people, 4 million of whom are found in the Liverpool/Manchester corridor. The area has one of the highest levels of disposable income in the UK but only employs 3% of the 28,000 UK maritime leisure staff. A long coastline and
much maritime history indicate that maritime leisure and tourism is ripe for development in the area. Higher education teaching of maritime, leisure, and tourism programs is available; however, there is not a specific Maritime Leisure degree. This article traces the development of such a degree
program considering the many issues involved.
Hybrid Model for Small Cruise Ships' Safety Risk Management
Authors: Nikitakos Nikitas , Mennis Evangellos , Platis Agapios
Published: May 2008

Maritime tourism has seriously suffered from various accidents caused by different contributing factors. The consequences of these accidents were either large environmental degradations or human casualties. For this purpose, a specific process known as Formal Safety Assessment (FSA)
has been developed and applied to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) rule-making process, in order to help the evaluation of new regulations or to compare proposed changes with existing standards. The application of the FSA facilitates a transparent decision-making process and provides
a proactive mean enabling the avoidance of serious accidents by highlighting potential hazards. In this article, we propose to study and improve the FSA process by taking into account these new parameters. This can be performed by reviewing existing modeling methods and/or applying more elaborated
models. Master Logic Diagrams are currently used by NASA for the probabilistic risk assessment of the shuttle and Markov models are used for the probabilistic risk assessment of nuclear power plants. We intend to discuss and study the applicability of these methods with danger parameters and
to produce a new hybrid model.
Kayiks of Izmir: An Extinct Design is Reborn
Authors: Erginer K. Emrah , Paker Serim , Erkurt Osman
Published: May 2008

Until the 1940s there were a lot of kayiks at the Izmir bay that were traditionally made in Izmir and used by most of the citizens of Izmir. As years passed, the kayiks of Izmir started to disappear slowly from the silhouette of Izmir. During the 1990s not even one specimen of the kayiks
of Izmir was to be found. Many cities around the world have buildings, houses, gardens, castles, towers, or other objects that are part of their cultural identities, which helps foreigners/tourists remember that city. The kayik of Izmir was, and will be again, a cultural identity that will
help people around the world remember the city of Izmir. Kayiks of Izmir were used for both cargo and passenger transportation for many decades. They moved by sail power or by row power. After the invention of combustion engines and diesel engines kayiks became a less used sea transport vehicle
in Izmir. In 2004, the idea of rebuilding these beautiful kayiks emerged and "360 Degrees Research Group" conducted a project. The Municipality of Izmir, Dokuz Eylül University, and the Chamber of Turkish Naval Architects and Marine Engineers, Izmir Branch, supported the project and the
kayiks are now back at their home in Izmir Bay, again sailing freely at Izmir bay with the help of Izmir citizens.
Unsustainable Dolphin-watching Tourism in Fiordland, New Zealand
Authors: Lusseau David , Slooten Liz , Currey Rohan J. C.
Published: May 2008

Bottlenose dolphins are a key resource of the tourism industry in Fiordland and are used on a daily basis by the tour operators offering cruises on the fiords. Recent studies have shown that the current levels of dolphin–boat interactions in this region cannot be sustained by
bottlenose dolphins. Interactions have both short- and long-term effects on both individuals and their populations. Population models indicate that these effects may be affecting the viability of the three bottlenose dolphin populations living in Fiordland. We are currently observing drastic
changes in the bottlenose dolphin population living in Doubtful Sound, which can be linked to the level of boat interactions to which they are currently exposed. The creation of a multilevel marine mammal sanctuary would help minimize dolphin–boat interactions and still allow for some
further growth in the tourism sector in Fiordland.
Managing Human Activity and Tourism Impacts: A Case Study of Zeke's Island Reserve, North Carolina
Authors: Herstine James , Hill Jeffery , Buerger Robert
Published: May 2008

Managers are consistently challenged to reconcile the impacts of recreational activity and tourism with protection of the integrity of the natural resources upon which these experiences depend. In the absence of opportunities for active resource management, the ability of natural mitigation processes to sustain natural resources becomes a critical attribute of resource viability. This case study, therefore, examines the relationship between natural mitigation processes and a specific form of tourist management—signage—on the Zeke's Island Component of the North Carolina National Estuarine Research Reserve Program (NCNERR). The island features of the Zeke's Island Component of the NCNERR are primarily accessible by small boat. Activities common for tourists to engage in at the Reserve are fishing, swimming, hiking, bird watching, and camping. Phase # of the study examined whether, given the absence of visitor management, natural processes mitigate recreation and tourism impacts caused by these activities. Phase #2 of the study examined whether the use of signs is an effective passive management technique in restricting recreation and tourism camping behavior. The results of the study indicate that: 1) natural processes mitigate most, but not all, recreation and tourism impacts on the subject site, and 2) signage can be an effective approach for passively managing human behavior and tourism in natural resource settings.
Sustainable Cruise Tourism in Arctic Canada: An Integrated Coastal Management Approach
Authors: Stewart Emma J. , Draper Dianne
Published: May 2008

Cruise tourism in Arctic Canada is increasing, albeit haphazardly. This article discusses the elements of management and planning that are expected to be important in the development of sustainable cruise tourism activities in Arctic Canada. Stakeholders might benefit from cruise tourism
management and planning being given higher priority in approaches to integrated coastal management. This approach is viewed as useful in northern Canada where resource management operates in an environment of uncertainty. There is a sense of urgency to address the issues raised because sovereignty
challenges and climate change are likely to accelerate the development of cruise tourism in the Canadian Arctic.
Impacts of Human Visitors on Australian Sea Lions (Neophoca cinerea) at Carnac Island, Western Australia: Implications for Tourism Management
Authors: Orsini Jean-Paul , Shaughnessy Peter D. , Newsome David
Published: May 2008

This study investigates the effects of human visitation on Australian sea lions (Neophoca cinerea) hauled out at Carnac Island Nature Reserve, near Perth, Western Australia. Male sea lions haul out on Carnac Island's main beach year round, and this is also where recreational boaters and tourists land when visiting from the mainland, thus coming into close contact with the sea lions. There was no significant difference in the rate of return of sea lions to the beach between low–moderate and high human visitation seasons. However, there was a specific profile of sea lion response to human approaches; the level of sea lions' vigilance was mainly a function of age (higher in juveniles than in adults) and time of the day (higher in the early part of the day). Remarkably, vigilance levels did not change with the distance of approach of humans to sea lions nor with the number of humans involved. With regard to spatial competition between sea lions and people on the beach, the section of beach where most people landed was the least often used by sea lions. This last result, however, was inconclusive, as habitat preference could have been involved in where sea lions chose to haul out. Finally, repeated incidental observations were made of direct interference of sea lions by humans, including approaches at very close range of less than 2.5 m, and throwing water and sand at sea lions. Suggested visitor management actions to reduce potential impacts of human presence on sea lions included: limiting the overall numbers of visitors to Carnac Island's main beach at peak visitation times, implementing a visitor interpretation and education program, and establishing a stronger ranger presence at the site.
Issues Determining the Development of Cruise Itineraries: A Focus on the Luxury Market
Authors: Barron Paul , Greenwood Ana Bartolome
Published: May 2008

While the cruise industry has been identified as an ever-increasingly important aspect of the wider tourism industry, this sector remains relatively underresearched. Cruises have shown strong year on year growth and, in 2004, was the holiday of choice for more than 12 million tourists
worldwide. Challenges facing the industry are concerned with market segmentation and the development of new and exciting ports of call. This research focuses on one aspect of the luxury cruise industry: that of the development of cruise itineraries. Specifically, this research will identify
the itinerary planning process in the luxury cruise industry, determine the main issues and challenges faced when developing itineraries, and finally present an overview of the influences that might shape luxury cruise itinerary planning in the future.
Recent Advances in Whale-watching Research: 2005–2006
Authors: Parsons E. C. M. , Lück M. , Lewandowski J. K.
Published: May 2008

Whale-watching research encompasses a wide variety of disciplines and fields of study including monitoring the biological impacts of whale-watching activities on cetaceans and assessments of the effectiveness of whale-watching management and regulations, to the sociological and economic
aspects of whale watching on communities hosting such activities. This article is the latest of a series of annual digests that describes the variety and findings of whale-watching studies published in the year following the 57th meeting of the International Whaling Commission, in 2005.
Dive Tourism in North Aegean, Greece: Potential and Prospects
Authors: Dikou Angela , Troumbis Andreas
Published: May 2008

Alternative tourism signals a new era of tourism development and policy in Greece, especially for disadvantaged regions such as the Region of North Aegean. The dive industry is an attractive choice of investment given its significant market and the opportunities it provides for qualitative
upgrading of tourism, entrance into new markets, and extension of the tourism season. However, the Region of North Aegean exhibits important deficiencies in infrastructure and human resources in order to develop dive tourism within an already highly competitive environment, both domestic and
abroad. On the other hand, it possesses exploitable natural resources in relation to dive tourism and a very favorable funding environment for the development of alternative forms of tourism. The Region of North Aegean could succeed in gaining funding resources from the European Union (EU)
and private investors by strengthening the dive industry's lobby in alternative tourism and using ample experience from similar groups worldwide. It should also decide on scale of investment and follow a business approach based on a management plan.
Assessing Compliance to Guidelines By Dolphin-watching Operators in Clearwater, Florida, USA
Authors: Whitt Amy D. , Read Andrew J.
Published: May 2008

Numerous studies have quantified the impacts of tourism on marine mammals; however, few studies have investigated tour operators' procedures and their compliance with regulations and guidelines. This study quantifies operator compliance with NOAA guidelines, examines the structure of tour educational programs, and investigates dolphin behavior during encounters between tour vessels and bottlenose dolphins in Clearwater, Florida. During 45 encounters, operators adhered to the guidelines approximately 60% of the time. Operators complied with the viewing time limit but failed to end encounters when dolphins exhibited potential disturbance behaviors. Operators approached dolphins within the 50-yard distance limit and used inappropriate techniques to maneuver around dolphins. The educational programs were unstructured and lacked critical components of effective interpretation programs. Considering these findings, we make suggestions for ways to improve educational programs, increase compliance, and minimize the impacts of tour vessels on dolphins.
Competitiveness of Croatian Nautical Tourism
Authors: Horak Sinisa , Marusic Zrinka , Favro Srecko
Published: May 2008

While nautical tourism is experiencing a strong demand in the Mediterranean, this growth presents a significant challenge to destination planners. The question of how well nautical tourism destinations are meeting increased demand, in terms of both capacity and quality, is of crucial
importance for nautical tourism destinations and their competitiveness. While measuring destination competitiveness is a common practice worldwide, the competitiveness of nautical tourism has not received much research attention. The study reported here aims to fill this gap by addressing
not only the competitive position of countries in the Mediterranean, especially Croatia, but also by providing a valuable discussion on issues relating to measuring nautical tourism competitiveness. The study focuses on nautical tourism supply, price competitiveness, and nautical tourists'
perceptions of competitiveness. The results revealed that the natural resources and feeling of safety are the strongest Croatian advantage, but this is undermined by the lower standards of infrastructure and services with accompanied lower value for money. While this, at the moment, does not
appear to adversely affect demand for the Croatian nautical tourism, failure to address these issues would reduce competitiveness and threaten the long-term sustainability of nautical tourism.
Layang Layang: An Empirical Study on Scuba Divers' Satisfaction
Authors: Musa Ghazali , Kadir Sharifah Latifah Syed A. , Lee Lawrence
Published: May 2008

Scuba diving is a burgeoning special interest tourism product in Malaysia. Layang Layang Island in the middle of the South China Sea is one of the world's most exciting diving destinations known for its hammerhead sharks among the diving community. This study is a pilot survey aimed
at measuring divers' satisfaction with Layang Layang. One hundred self-administered questionnaires were given out to divers on the last day of their stay in September 2004. Ninety-eight questionnaires were returned and analyzed. The results show that divers are generally Europeans, older,
first timers, experienced, of high education and near equality between the sexes. The overall satisfaction is very high. The main contributors to diving satisfaction are underwater nature and the comfort and ease of access to dive sites. Divers are less satisfied with the provision of marine
life education facilities, rental equipment, lodging, and the lack of other activities. It is suggested that in order to ensure divers' satisfaction, the management should appropriately manage divers' expectations by providing accurate information about Layang Layang using the most satisfactory
diving variables in the marketing message. The resort at the same time should ensure that the natural features of the island are sustainable, because they are the reasons for divers' visits. Future research should improve on the questionnaire design and the size of diver sample population.
From Inuits in Skin Boats to Bobos on the High Seas: The Commodification of Sea Kayaking Through Tourism
Authors: Hudson Simon , Beedie Paul
Published: May 2008

This article explores the relationship between adventure and tourism through an examination of sea kayaking. The theoretical focus of this discussion is commodification, and in particular the role of commercial developments in the adventure tourism sector. It is argued that commodification
has been facilitated by four main factors: changing lifestyles; a deferring of control to guides; a proliferation of promotional media; and the application of technology in adventurous settings. Each of these influences on kayaking is examined in turn. Drawing on examples from all over the
world, the article proposes that sea kayaking is moving from being a hard adventure activity towards a soft one through this process of commodification.
Recent Advances in Whale-watching Research: 2004–2005
Authors: Parsons E. C. M. , Lewandowski Jill , Lück Michael
Published: May 2008

Whale-watching research encompasses a wide variety of disciplines from the biological aspects of the impacts of whale-watching tour boats on whales to the sociological and economic aspects of whale watching. The following is a digest of recent whale-watching research, initially produced for the members of the International Whaling Commission (IWC) meeting in Ulsan, Korea in May/June 2005. This article briefly describes the variety and findings of studies published recently on various aspects of research related to whale watching.
Profiling Changes in the Supply Side of Marine Tourism in New Zealand: A Spatiotemporal Analysis
Authors: Orchiston Caroline
Published: May 2008

Marine tourism is an industry experiencing rapid growth, both worldwide and in New Zealand. Marine tourism operations are diverse in nature, encompassing physical activities such as sea kayaking and diving, as well as more passive observation of wildlife and scenery. In light of this
growth and diversification, there has been a widely acknowledged need for detailed profiling research focused on this sector. This article profiles marine tourism operators with respect to a number of criteria, including tour location, tour activities and attractions, and business development
issues such as visitor numbers, employees, and length of time in business. The research employed a postal survey, which was sent to all marine tourism operators in New Zealand in September 2002. Aspects of the study were directly comparable to an earlier study conducted by McKegg, which made
it possible to draw comparisons in terms of growth and development since 1996. The number of operators has increased by 57% over the time period, with the most popular marine tours involving scenic cruises and observation of wildlife. Marine mammals and marine reserves both continue to increase
in popularity. The latter are becoming marine attractions in their own right, which has implications for the Department of Conservation drive to protect 10% of New Zealand waters as marine parks by 2010. This research will assist with the development of government policy; namely, the Oceans
Policy, a document designed to ensure a consistent and integrated management approach to the ocean under New Zealand's jurisdiction.
Examining Dimensions of Anticipation: Inputs Prior to Visiting the Ross Sea Region, Antarctica
Authors: Maher Patrick T. , McIntosh Alison J. , Steel Gary D.
Published: May 2008

Few previous studies have given attention to the nature of the experiences gained by those visiting remote locations. This article presents findings from a study that examined the anticipation phase of experience for visitors to the Ross Sea region of the Antarctic continent. Prior
to their visit, 55 visitors voluntarily completed a mail-back self-administered survey examining their anticipation of the visit and recording their demographic characteristics. Anticipation, prior to their on-site experience, was measured in relation to three defining dimensions: motivations,
image, and mood. Findings suggest that visitors to the Ross Sea region may be notably different in their demographic profile and their anticipation of the visit than from those reported in previous Antarctic studies.
Onboard Marine Environmental Education: Whale Watching in the San Juan Islands, Washington
Authors: Andersen Melissa S. , Miller Marc L.
Published: May 2008

Marine environmental education is a powerful mechanism for shaping human conduct and for enhancing quality of life. Regulation notwithstanding, sustainable tourism depends on sustainable education. Over the last several decades, whale-watching tourism has emerged as a nature-based business and leisure activity of significant proportions. Typically, whale watching brings together vessel operators and their crew, professional onboard naturalists or interpreters, and diverse categories of whale-watching clients or tourists. This compound interest in whales as (eco)touristic objects has led to campaigns for living marine resource management regimes that protect whales while optimizing the whale-watching experience. Preliminary survey research of whale-watching tourists in the San Juan Islands, Washington (USA) reveals that whale-watchers' expectations concern seeing whales and other wildlife, along with learning about the whales and the marine environment. Whale-watchers' evaluations of their experience confirm that onboard interpreters play two important and intertwined roles, helping to avoid disappointment if/when trip expectations are not met. As interpreters are successful as educators, educational and ecological objectives are achieved. As they are successful as social directors, social and business objectives are achieved. Implications of theses findings will be of interest to those in the whale-watching business and other forms of onboard tourism worldwide; those who aspire to be onboard interpreters; those who are whale watchers; and indirectly, to the whales.
Public Awareness of Whale-watching Opportunities in Scotland
Authors: Howard C. , Parsons E. C. M.
Published: May 2008

In 2003, a survey was conducted to assess the awareness of the general public of whale-watching opportunities in Scotland and to assess the potential domestic market for whale-watching activities. Fifty-four percent of respondents took holidays in Scotland, and two thirds stated that
opportunities to watch wildlife were an important motivational factor for them having holidays in Scotland. Although the US was the country thought by the majority as a primary whale-watching location, Scotland featured second. Over half were aware of whale-watching opportunities in Scotland,
although only a third were aware of specific locations. The most commonly cited whale-watching location was the Moray Firth. Only 7.7% of the respondents had actually been whale watching, although more than half the respondents said that they would be interested in going on a whale-watching
trip in Scotland. Eighty-five percent of survey respondents thought that the Scottish Tourist Board could do more to promote whale watching in Scotland and television advertising was considered to be the most effective means of such promotion. This study indicated that there was a relatively
large potential domestic market for whale watching in Scotland that is, as yet, untapped.
Enzyme‐Responsive Nanoparticle Systems
Authors: Ghadiali James E. , Stevens Molly M.
Published: June 2008

Inorganic nanoparticles and their accompanying diverse physical properties are now virtually in routine use as imaging tools in cell‐biology. In addition to serving as excellent contrast agents, their size‐ and environment‐dependent optical and magnetic properties can be harnessed to create enzyme biosensor devices of extremely high sensitivity, whilst circumventing the numerous technical limitations associated with traditional enzyme assays. In this Research News article we discuss recent advances in field of enzyme‐responsive nanoparticle systems, where the activity of an enzyme elicits a specific response in the nanoparticle assembly to produce a signal relating to enzyme activity, focusing on three important systems: DNA‐structured nanoparticles, protein kinases and proteases.
Silicosis mortality among young adults in the United States, 1968–2004
Authors: Mazurek Jacek M. , Attfield Michael D.
Published: June 2008

Background

To describe silicosis deaths in young (aged 15–44) adults in the U.S. during 1968–2004.

Methods

We analyzed the National Center for Health Statistics multiple cause‐of‐death records.

Results

Compared with silicosis decedents aged ≥45 years (n = 15,643), young decedents (n = 237) were more likely to have silicosis listed as the underlying cause of death (74.3% vs. 48.2%, P < 0.001), to be female (9.3% vs. 2.2%, P < 0.001) and black (37.1% vs. 11.7%, P < 0.001). Twenty‐nine young silicosis decedents had industry and occupation information available. Occupations in construction and manufacturing industries were associated with significantly elevated proportionate mortality ratios for young silicosis deaths.

Conclusions

Silicosis deaths occur among young adults. Because these deaths are likely to reflect more intense and recent exposures, the follow‐back investigations into the work sites where these individuals were exposed to silica should be conducted. Am. J. Ind. Med. 51:568–578, 2008. Published 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Analysis of human alternative first exons and copy number variation of the GJA12 gene in patients with Pelizaeus–Merzbacher‐like disease
Authors: Ruf Nico , Uhlenberg Birgit
Published: June 2008

Pelizaeus–Merzbacher‐like disease (PMLD) is a heterogeneous disease with primary hypomyelination of the central nervous system. Only the minority of patients have mutations in the coding region of the GJA12 gene encoding gap junction protein alpha 12, a subunit of intercellular channels highly expressed by oligodendrocytes, the myelin forming cells of the central nervous system. No other gene has been found so far to be mutated in PMLD besides GJA12. We therefore extended the mutational screening in the GJA12 gene, searched for alternative first exons—as described in mice—determined the human 5′‐end of the gene, screened therein for mutations and analyzed for copy number variations of the GJA12 gene in 14 patients with PMLD. Unlike in mice we did not find alternative first exons but detected a unique 79 bp first exon in human adolescent brain and spinal cord. No mutation in this non‐coding region was found in our cohort. Copy number variation of the GJA12 gene was assessed by real‐time PCR TaqMan® gene expression technology, but neither patient showed an aberrant copy number. These data confirm that GJA12 alterations are a rare cause of PMLD—even after extending the screening for copy number variation and for mutations in the non‐coding region of GJA12. Full genome scans in informative families and further screenings of candidate genes are feasible approaches to elucidate the genetic background of the majority of patients with PMLD. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Association study between thePIK4CAgene and methamphetamine use disorder in a Japanese population
Authors: Kanahara Nobuhisa , Miyatake Ryosuke , Sekine Yoshimoto , Inada Toshiya , Ozaki Norio , Iwata Nakao , Harano Mutsuo , Komiyama Tokutaro , Yamada Mitsuhiko , Sora Ichiro , Ujike Hiroshi , Iyo Masaomi , Hashimoto Kenji
Published: June 2008

Accumulating evidence suggests that phosphatidylinositol (PI) pathways have been involved in the secretion of dopamine (DA) and the regulation of DA transporter, which is a target of methamphetamine (METH). A recent large‐scale gene‐association study in a Dutch population demonstrated that thePIK4CAgene was closely linked to schizophrenia [Jungerius et al. (2007); Mol Psychiatry]. Here, we conducted a case (N = 232)–control (N = 233) study of thePIK4CAgene on Japanese METH abusers, which can manifest severe psychosis similar to schizophrenia. The genotype and allelic distributions of all four single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) did not differ significantly between the METH abusers and the controls. The comparisons based on the classification of the psychosis as transient or prolonged and on the presence or absence of spontaneous relapse revealed no significant distribution of the four SNPs compared to the controls. Furthermore, haplotype analyses showed almost the same frequencies between the METH abusers and the controls. The present study suggests that thePIK4CAgene does not play a significant role in the vulnerability to METH use disorder in the Japanese population. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Examining the extinction risk of specialized folivores: a comparative study of Colobine monkeys
Authors: Kamilar Jason M. , Paciulli Lisa M.
Published: June 2008

Species extinctions are nonrandom with some taxa appearing to possess traits that increase their extinction risk. In this study, eight predictors of extinction risk were used as independent variables to predict the IUCN category of a subfamily of specialized folivorous primates, the Colobinae. All data were transformed into phylogenetically independent contrasts and were analyzed using bivariate regressions, multiple regression, and a maximum likelihood approach using Akaike's Information Criterion to assess model performance. Once an outlier was removed from the data set, species that devote a smaller proportion of their diet to mature leaf consumption appear to be at a greater risk of extinction. Also, as female body mass increases, so does extinction risk. In contrast, as maximum latitude and the number of habitat types increase, extinction risk appears to decrease. These findings emphasize the importance of examining detailed dietary variation for predicting extinction risk at a relatively fine taxonomic scale and, consequently, may help improve conservation management. Am. J. Primatol. 70:816–827, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Characterizing human–macaque interactions in Singapore
Authors: Fuentes Agustín , Kalchik Stephanie , Gettler Lee , Kwiatt Anne , Konecki McKenna , Jones‐Engel Lisa
Published: June 2008

Previous studies have noted substantial human–macaque interactions involving physical contact in Bali, Indonesia; Gibraltar; and Mt. Emei, China [Fuentes, American Journal of Primatology 68:880–896, 2006; Zhao, Tibetan macaques, visitors, and local people at Mt. Emei: problems and countermeasures. In: Paterson and Wallis, editor. Commensalism and conflict: the human–primate interface. Norman, OK: American Society of Primatologists. p 376–399, 2005]. The aim of this study was to conduct preliminary observations in order to begin to characterize interaction patterns between humans and long‐tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis) in Singapore. Unlike Bali, Gibraltar, and Mt. Emei, Singapore occasionally enforces fines and penalties and engages in an education campaign in an effort to minimize physical contact between humans and macaques. Observers stationed at two sites in Singapore conducted 92 5 hr of observation that included 730 human–macaque interactions over 16 days. Data recorded include interaction characteristics, demographic and behavioral variables, presence of feeding by humans, and presence of automobiles. Although feeding by humans was relatively infrequent overall, it generally occurred most often by individuals in cars and when human children were present. Data analysis suggests that interactions involving physical contact between macaques and humans are rare in Singapore, in contrast to the findings from Bali, Gibraltar, and Mt. Emei. This low level of physical contact suggests a low risk of macaque–human pathogen transmission in Singapore. Am. J. Primatol. 70:879–883, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Predicting Enthalpy of Vaporization of Ionic Liquids: A Simple Rule for a Complex Property
Authors: Verevkin Sergey P.
Published: June 2008

Ein additiver Ansatz auf der Grundlage der Summenformel wurde genutzt, um die Verdampfungsenthalpie einer ionischen Flüssigkeit zu berechnen. Die Enthalpie wird in einen Hauptbeitrag für die enthaltenen Elemente (ohne Beachtung ihrer Position in Kation oder Anion) und einen Korrekturterm für besondere Strukturmerkmale wie CF3‐Gruppen oder Ringe aufgespalten.
Effects of vanillin and plasticizer on properties of chitosan‐methyl cellulose based film
Authors: Sangsuwan Jurmkwan , Rattanapanone Nithiya , Rachtanapun Pornchai
Published: June 2008

Chitosan‐methyl cellulose based films which incorporatate vanillin as an antimicrobial agent and polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG) as a plasticizer were developed in this study. The effects of vanillin and plasticizer concentration on mechanical, barrier, optical, and thermal properties of chitosan‐methyl cellulose film were evaluated. When the vanillin concentration was increased at a given PEG level, film flexibility decreased while tensile strength increased slightly. Vanillin increased the barrier to oxygen but not water vapor. Increasing vanillin content resulted in less transparency and a more yellowish tint. The bulky nature of vanillin reduced film crystallization. When PEG concentration was increased at a given vanillin level, it resulted in greater film flexibility but reduced film strength. Water vapor permeability (WVP) and oxygen permeability (OP) increased with increase in PEG content. PEG contributed less to the opacity, yellowness, and crystallization of the film than did vanillin. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Effect of glucose crosslinking on thermomechanical properties and shape memory effect of PET‐PEG copolymers
Authors: Chung Yong‐Chan , Shim Yong Shik , Chun Byoung Chul
Published: June 2008

Poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) and poly (ethylene glycol) (PEG) copolymers crosslinked with glucose as a crosslinker are prepared to improve their mechanical and shape memory properties compared to the one without crosslinking. Composition of PEG and glucose is varied to search for the one with the best mechanical and shape memory properties. The highest shape recovery rate is found in the copolymer composed of 25 mol % PEG‐200 and 2.0 mol % glucose. The result that crosslinking by glucose improves the shape recovery rate and supports the high shape recovery rate under the repetitive cyclic test conditions, compared to the one without crosslinking, will be discussed in the points of the structure and shape memory mechanism. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Mandibular Fossa Morphology in the Ngandong and Sambungmacan Fossil Hominids
Authors: Durband Arthur C.
Published: June 2008

There has been debate in recent years concerning the significance of the mandibular fossa morphology in the Ngandong and Sambungmacan hominids. These fossils lack a postglenoid process and their squamotympanic fissure runs along the apex of the fossa for its entire length. This configuration differs from that seen in other fossil and modern humans, which have a prominent postglenoid process and a squamotympanic fissure that takes a more posterior course that does not lie in the apex of the fossa. Some recent studies have suggested that the Ngandong and Sambungmacan hominids are not unique in their expression of these characteristics, and that they can also be found in other fossil crania from Africa and Indonesia. The present study reexamines these morphologies in an effort to better understand their distribution in the hominid fossil record. The results confirm that the lack of a prominent postglenoid process in combination with a squamotympanic fissure that lies wholly in the apex of the mandibular fossa along its entire length is indeed autapomorphic for the Ngandong and Sambungmacan fossils. This finding, in conjunction with work on other nonmetric features in these hominids, suggests that at least two hominid morphs, possibly representing separate species, were present on Java during the Pleistocene. In addition, if this apparent autapomorphy is confirmed, then it is also unlikely that the Ngandong hominids contributed to the gene pool of modern humans. Anat Rec, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Protective Effect of Glutathione Against Liver Warm Ischemia‐Reperfusion Injury in Rats is Associated with Regulation of P‐Selectin and Neutrophil Infiltration
Authors: Xue Fei , Wang Guangtian , Pang Zhigang , Liu Chao , Liang Tingbo
Published: June 2008

We examined the effects of glutathione (GSH) preconditioning through the portal vein on rat warm liver ischemia reperfusion injury (I/R injury) and investigated the mechanisms involved. In rats with warm liver I/R injury, administration of GSH by means of the portal vein before ischemia increased the 7‐day survival rates of rats after liver I/R from 38% to 75%. This effect was correlated with significantly improved liver function, depressed MDA content in the liver and fewer histologic features of hepatocyte injury. Intrahepatic expression of P‐selectin and infiltration of neutrophils were increased significantly after liver I/R. GSH pretreatment decreased intrahepatic MPO content and the expression of P‐selectin. However, it did not significantly affect the mRNA levels for P‐selectin after liver I/R. Thus, preconditioning with GSH protects the liver against I/R injury by a mechanism dependent on free radical species scavenging, down‐regulation of adhesion molecule expression and inhibition of neutrophil accumulation. These findings document the potential clinical utility of GSH to improve the overall success of diverse procedures, such as liver surgery and liver transplantation. Anat Rec, 291:1016–1022, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Newly Revealed Cricothyropharyngeus Muscle in the Human Laryngopharynx
Authors: Mu Liancai , Sanders Ira
Published: June 2008

Humans have a uniquely curved pharynx and tongue that is believed to have evolved for speech. The most inferior part of the pharynx consists of the laryngopharynx, the critical crossroad where swallowing, breathing, and phonation overlap. We hypothesized that the human laryngopharynx has unique neuromuscular specializations that may be speech related. Laryngopharynx specimens from 15 humans and 20 nonhuman mammals (dog, pig, rabbit, and rat) were studied. Microdissection revealed that only human specimens had a muscle originating from the anterior arch of the cricoid cartilage, and coursing between the inferior pharyngeal constrictor and cricopharyngeus muscles to insert into the median raphe at the posterior midline of the pharynx. On the basis of these anatomic features, we termed it the “cricothyropharyngeus” (CTP). The structure, innervation, and muscle fiber types of the human CTP were further investigated by histological methods, Sihler's stain, and myosin heavy chain (MHC) immunocytochemistry. The innervation and muscle fiber types of the CTP were found to differ from those of neighboring muscles. The laryngeal portion of the CTP was innervated by the external superior laryngeal nerve, whereas the pharyngeal portion of the muscle was supplied by the pharyngeal plexus. Most notable was that the CTP contained specialized muscle fibers expressing some unusual MHC isoforms (i.e., slow‐tonic, α‐cardiac, neonatal, and embryonic). In conclusion, the CTP appears to be a newly described and uniquely human muscle with characteristics suggesting a specialized function that may be speech related. Anat Rec, 291:927–938, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effects of strong static magnetic fields used in magnetic resonance imaging on insulin‐secreting cells
Authors: Sakurai Tomonori , Terashima Shingo , Miyakoshi Junji
Published: June 2008

The magnetic flux density of MRI for clinical diagnosis has been steadily increasing. However, there remains very little biological data regarding the effect of strong static magnetic fields (SMFs) on human health. To evaluate the effects of strong SMFs on biological systems, we cultured insulin‐secreting cells under exposure to sham and SMF conditions (3–10 T of magnetic flux density, and 0–41.7 T/m of magnetic field gradient) for 0.5 or 1 h, and analyzed insulin secretion, mRNA expression, glucose‐stimulated insulin secretion, insulin content, cell proliferation and cell number. Exposure to SMF with a high magnetic field gradient for 1 h significantly increased insulin secretion and insulin 1 mRNA expression. Exposure to SMF with a high magnetic flux density for 0.5 h significantly enhanced responsiveness to glucose stimulation. Exposure to SMF did not affect the insulin content, cell proliferation or cell number. Our results suggested that MRI systems with a higher magnetic flux density might not cause cell proliferative or functional damages on insulin‐secreting cells, and that SMF with a high magnetic field gradient might be used clinically after thorough in vivo investigations are conducted. Bioelectromagnetics 30:1–8, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.