bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tag Loss and Short-Term Mortality Associated with Passive Integrated Transponder Tagging of Juvenile Lost River Suckers
Authors: Burdick Summer M.
Published: December 2011

Passive integrated transponder (PIT) tags are commonly used to mark small catostomids, but tag loss and the effect of tagging on mortality have not been assessed for juveniles of the endangered Lost River sucker Deltistes luxatus. I evaluated tag loss and short-term (34-d) mortality associated with the PIT tagging of juvenile Lost River suckers in the laboratory by using a completely randomized design and three treatment groups (PIT tagged, positive control, and control). An empty needle was inserted into each positive control fish, whereas control fish were handled but not tagged. Only one fish expelled its PIT tag. Mortality rate averaged 9.8 ± 3.4% (mean ± SD) for tagged fish; mortality was 0% for control and positive control fish. All tagging mortalities occurred in fish with standard lengths of 71 mm or less, and most of the mortalities occurred within 48 h of tagging. My results indicate that 12.45- × 2.02-mm PIT tags provide a viable method of marking juvenile Lost River suckers that are 72 mm or larger.

Received February 18, 2011; accepted July 27, 2011
Long-Term Changes in Recreational Catch Inequality in a Trout Stream
Authors: Seekell David A. , Brosseau Chase J. , Cline Timothy J. , Winchcombe Raymond J. , Zinn Lee J.
Published: December 2011

Catch inequality occurs when a small number of anglers catch a disproportionally large number of fish. Catch inequality is a common occurrence in recreational fisheries, but long-term changes in catch inequality are rarely measured. We evaluated catch inequality in archived long-term complete-trip creel census records from a trout stream in southeastern New York. These records document all fish caught for each angler over a 20-year period. Catch inequality, as measured by the Gini coefficient, increased significantly during the study period. Catch per unit effort and an inequality-standardized measure of catch per unit effort declined significantly throughout the study. We tested the hypothesis that between-angler inequality increases as catch per unit effort declines. There was no change in between-angler inequality but between-trip inequality increased substantially. Trip-to-trip variability, not between-angler variability, accounts for increased catch inequality when catch per unit effort declines. Catch inequality increases as catch per unit effort declines, but less successful anglers are not disproportionately affected.

Received July 13, 2011; accepted August 24, 2011
Seeing photos makes us read between the lines: The influence of photos on memory for inferences
Authors: Henkel Linda A.
Published: December 2011

Three studies examined how photos accompanying stories could contribute to people drawing inferences about outcomes from the stories and subsequently claiming that they had read what had actually only been inferred. Subjects read short stories designed to induce inferences about their conclusions (e.g., “Sabrina dropped the delicate vase” invites the inference that the vase broke) accompanied by a photo depicting the likely conclusion (the broken vase), a photo depicting a detail of the story but not the conclusion (the vase before it was dropped), or no photo. Results showed that seeing photographs consistent with inferred conclusions led people to falsely claim that they read those conclusions. Photo-boosted inferences were held with high confidence and were robust over time. Falsely recalled inferences were sometimes accompanied by false claims to have seen a photo depicting the inferred events when another photo or no photo had actually be seen. These findings support the source monitoring framework's prediction that people can mistakenly attribute their internally generated inferences about what occurred to externally derived sources when they have photographic “evidence” consistent with the inferred conclusions.
Neuregulins show their support for neuromuscular junctions
Authors: Leslie Mitch
Published: December 2011

Proteins help establish a solid foundation for nerve–muscle connections.
Loss of the signaling adaptor TRAF1 causes CD8+ T cell dysregulation during human and murine chronic infection
Authors: Wang Chao , McPherson Ann J. , Jones R. Brad , Kawamura Kim S. , Lin Gloria H.Y. , Lang Philipp A. , Ambagala Thanuja , Pellegrini Marc , Calzascia Thomas , Aidarus Nasra , Elford Alisha R. , Yue Feng Yun , Kremmer Elisabeth , Kovacs Colin M. , Benko Erika , Tremblay Cecile , Routy Jean-Pierre , Bernard Nicole F. , Ostrowski Mario A. , Ohashi Pamela S. , Watts Tania H.
Published: December 2011

The signaling adaptor TNFR-associated factor 1 (TRAF1) is specifically lost from virus-specific CD8 T cells during the chronic phase of infection with HIV in humans or lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) clone 13 in mice. In contrast, TRAF1 is maintained at higher levels in virus-specific T cells of HIV controllers or after acute LCMV infection. TRAF1 expression negatively correlates with programmed death 1 expression and HIV load and knockdown of TRAF1 in CD8 T cells from viral controllers results in decreased HIV suppression ex vivo. Consistent with the desensitization of the TRAF1-binding co-stimulatory receptor 4-1BB, 4-1BBL–deficient mice have defects in viral control early, but not late, in chronic infection. TGFβ induces the posttranslational loss of TRAF1, whereas IL-7 restores TRAF1 levels. A combination treatment with IL-7 and agonist anti–4-1BB antibody at 3 wk after LCMV clone 13 infection expands T cells and reduces viral load in a TRAF1-dependent manner. Moreover, transfer of TRAF1+ but not TRAF1− memory T cells at the chronic stage of infection reduces viral load. These findings identify TRAF1 as a potential biomarker of HIV-specific CD8 T cell fitness during the chronic phase of disease and a target for therapy.
Analytical estimation of the thrust generated by a surface dielectric barrier discharge
Authors: Soloviev V R
Published: December 2011

The thrust induced by a set of microdischarges forming a surface dielectric barrier discharge (SDBD) at sinusoidal alternating voltage is estimated analytically by a phenomenological model based on available experimental data and achieved understanding of SDBD physics. Qualitative coincidence between theoretical predictions and experimental observations for thrust dependence on voltage at different dielectric thicknesses and its relative permittivity is demonstrated by the developed phenomenological model. The volumetric force is primarily induced by the negative voltage half-cycle. The origin of the force is the accumulation of volumetric negative charge carried by negative long-lived

and

ions. This accumulation is proportional to the third power of discharge length giving a strong force dependence on applied voltage. The directions of further SDBD investigation and actuator performance improvement are discussed.
Shrub expansion in tundra ecosystems: dynamics, impacts and research priorities
Authors: Myers-Smith Isla H , Forbes Bruce C , Wilmking Martin , Hallinger Martin , Lantz Trevor , Blok Daan , Tape Ken D , Macias-Fauria Marc , Sass-Klaassen Ute , Lévesque Esther , Boudreau Stéphane , Ropars Pascale , Hermanutz Luise , Trant Andrew , Collier Laura Siegwart , Weijers Stef , Rozema Jelte , Rayback Shelly A , Schmidt Niels Martin , Schaepman-Strub Gabriela , Wipf Sonja , Rixen Christian , Ménard Cécile B , Venn Susanna , Goetz Scott , Andreu-Hayles Laia , Elmendorf Sarah , Ravolainen Virve , Welker Jeffrey , Grogan Paul , Epstein Howard E , Hik David S
Published: December 2011

Recent research using repeat photography, long-term ecological monitoring and dendrochronology has documented shrub expansion in arctic, high-latitude and alpine tundra ecosystems. Here, we (1) synthesize these findings, (2) present a conceptual framework that identifies mechanisms and constraints on shrub increase, (3) explore causes, feedbacks and implications of the increased shrub cover in tundra ecosystems, and (4) address potential lines of investigation for future research. Satellite observations from around the circumpolar Arctic, showing increased productivity, measured as changes in ‘greenness’, have coincided with a general rise in high-latitude air temperatures and have been partly attributed to increases in shrub cover. Studies indicate that warming temperatures, changes in snow cover, altered disturbance regimes as a result of permafrost thaw, tundra fires, and anthropogenic activities or changes in herbivory intensity are all contributing to observed changes in shrub abundance. A large-scale increase in shrub cover will change the structure of tundra ecosystems and alter energy fluxes, regional climate, soil–atmosphere exchange of water, carbon and nutrients, and ecological interactions between species. In order to project future rates of shrub expansion and understand the feedbacks to ecosystem and climate processes, future research should investigate the species or trait-specific responses of shrubs to climate change including: (1) the temperature sensitivity of shrub growth, (2) factors controlling the recruitment of new individuals, and (3) the relative influence of the positive and negative feedbacks involved in shrub expansion.
Using an individual-based model with four trophic levels to model the effect of predation and competition on squid recruitment
Authors: Sinerchia Matteo , Field Anthony J. , Woods John D. , Vallerga Silvana , Hinsley Wes R.
Published: December 2011

Sinerchia, M., Field, A. J., Woods, J. D., Vallerga, S., and Hinsley, W. R. 2012. Using an individual-based model with four trophic levels to model the effect of predation and competition on squid recruitment. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 69: 439–447. The Lagrangian Ensemble recruitment model (LERM) is the first prognostic model of fisheries recruitment based upon individuals. It incorporates five functional groups: phytoplankton (diatoms), herbivorous zooplankton (copepods), carnivorous zooplankton (squid paralarvae), and two top predators. Physiology and behaviour are described by equations derived from literature based on reproducible laboratory experiments. LERM is built using the Lagrangian Ensemble metamodel, in which the demography and biofeedback of each dynamic population are diagnostic properties, emerging from the life histories of individuals. The response of the plankton ecosystem and squid recruitment to different scenarios of exogenous forcing is investigated. Simulations were run at 41°N 27°W (Azores) under a stationary annual cycle of atmospheric forcing. The ecosystem adjusts to a stable attractor for each scenario. The emergent properties of each attractor are investigated, with focus on predation, competition for food, and spawning magnitude. Annual recruitment is a complex emergent property dependent on several factors, including food availability, predation, competition, and post-hatching growth rate, as proposed by Hjort's critical period theory, relating recruitment to predation mortality, depending on growth rate and hence food availability. The model provides a useful step towards linking small-scale processes governing the life histories of larvae and fisheries on the large scale.
Concurrent recruitment failure in gadoids and changes in the plankton community along the Norwegian Skagerrak coast after 2002
Authors: Johannessen Tore , Dahl Einar , Falkenhaug Tone , Naustvoll Lars J.
Published: December 2011

Johannessen, T., Dahl, E., Falkenhaug, T., and Naustvoll, L. J. 2012. Concurrent recruitment failure in gadoids and changes in the plankton community of the Norwegian Skagerrak coast after 2002. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 69: 795–801. Since 1919, annual beach-seine sampling has been carried out along the Norwegian Skagerrak coast with the main objective of measuring the abundance of 0-group gadoids. Repeated incidents of abrupt and persistent recruitment collapses in gadoid populations have been observed locally. These collapses have been linked to gradual eutrophication, which has resulted in abrupt changes in the plankton community and deprivation of adequate prey for 0-group fish. Since 2002, the recruitment of 0-group gadoids has been very poor along the Skagerrak coast on a regional scale. At the same time, major changes in the plankton community have been observed. A regular and pronounced autumn bloom dominated by red-tide forming dinoflagellates such as large Ceratium spp. and the toxic Karenia mikimotoi has practically vanished, and a linear decrease in oxygen concentration at intermediate depths (30 m) that has been evident since the 1960s, was reversed around 2002. These changes would normally indicate improved environmental conditions. However, the recruitment failure in gadoids does not support this perception. Rather, the evidence points towards a potential shift in the plankton community that has resulted in gadoid recruitment failure.
Characterization of Resistance to Stripe Rust in Contemporary Cultivars and Lines of Winter Wheat from the Eastern United States
Authors: Sthapit Jinita , Gbur Edward E. , Brown-Guedira Gina , Marshall David S. , Milus Eugene A.
Published: December 2011

Stripe rust, caused by Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici, has been an important disease of winter wheat (Triticum aestivum) in the eastern United States since 2000, when a new strain of the pathogen emerged. The new strain overcame the widely used resistance gene, Yr9, and was more aggressive and better adapted to warmer temperatures than the old strain. Host resistance is the most effective approach to manage stripe rust. Winter wheat lines with resistance to the new strain in the field are common, but the genes conferring this resistance are mostly unknown. The objectives of this research were to characterize the all-stage resistance and adult-plant resistance (APR) to stripe rust in a representative group of contemporary winter wheat cultivars and breeding lines and to identify the resistance genes when possible. Of the 50 lines evaluated for all-stage resistance at the seedling stage, nearly all were susceptible to the new strain. Based on a linked molecular marker, seven lines had resistance gene Yr17 that confers resistance to both old and new strains; however, this resistance was difficult to identify in the seedling stage. Of the 19 lines evaluated for APR, all expressed APR compared with a very susceptible check. Nine had race-specific APR to the new strain and nine had APR to both old and new strains. The remaining line, 26R61, had all-stage resistance to the old strain (conferred by resistance gene Yr9) and a high level of APR to the new strain. APR was expressed as low infection type, low percent leaf area diseased, and long latent period at heading stage under both low and high temperature regimes and could be identified as early as jointing stage. Based on tests for linked molecular markers, the most widely used slow-rusting APR genes, Yr18 and Yr29, were not present in any of the lines. The results of this research indicate that effective all-stage resistance was conferred only by Yr17 and that APR was common and likely conferred by unknown race-specific genes rather than genes conferring slow rusting that are more likely to be durable.
The Genus Phytophthora Anno 2012
Authors: Kroon Laurens P. N. M. , Brouwer Henk , de Cock Arthur W. A. M. , Govers Francine
Published: December 2011

Plant diseases caused by Phytophthora species will remain an ever increasing threat to agriculture and natural ecosystems. Phytophthora literally means plant destroyer, a name coined in the 19th century by Anton de Bary when he investigated the potato disease that set the stage for the Great Irish Famine. Phytophthora infestans, the causal agent of potato late blight, was the first species in a genus that at present has over 100 recognized members. In the last decade, the number of recognized Phytophthora species has nearly doubled and new species are added almost on a monthly basis. Here we present an overview of the 10 clades that are currently distinguished within the genus Phytophthora with special emphasis on new species that have been described since 1996 when Erwin and Ribeiro published the valuable monograph ‘Phytophthora diseases worldwide’ (35).
Whole genome sequencing of matched primary and metastatic acral melanomas
Authors: Turajlic Samra , Furney Simon J. , Lambros Maryou B. , Mitsopoulos Costas , Kozarewa Iwanka , Geyer Felipe C. , MacKay Alan , Hakas Jarle , Zvelebil Marketa , Lord Christopher J. , Ashworth Alan , Thomas Meirion , Stamp Gordon , Larkin James , Reis-Filho Jorge S. , Marais Richard
Published: December 2011

Next generation sequencing has enabled systematic discovery of mutational spectra in cancer samples. Here, we used whole genome sequencing to characterize somatic mutations and structural variation in a primary acral melanoma and its lymph node metastasis. Our data show that the somatic mutational rates in this acral melanoma sample pair were more comparable to the rates reported in cancer genomes not associated with mutagenic exposure than in the genome of a melanoma cell line or the transcriptome of melanoma short-term cultures. Despite the perception that acral skin is sun-protected, the dominant mutational signature in these samples is compatible with damage due to ultraviolet light exposure. A nonsense mutation in ERCC5 discovered in both the primary and metastatic tumors could also have contributed to the mutational signature through accumulation of unrepaired dipyrimidine lesions. However, evidence of transcription-coupled repair was suggested by the lower mutational rate in the transcribed regions and expressed genes. The primary and the metastasis are highly similar at the level of global gene copy number alterations, loss of heterozygosity and single nucleotide variation (SNV). Furthermore, the majority of the SNVs in the primary tumor were propagated in the metastasis and one nonsynonymous coding SNV and one splice site mutation appeared to arise de novo in the metastatic lesion.
An Abscisic Acid-AtNAP Transcription Factor-SAG113 Protein Phosphatase 2C Regulatory Chain for Controlling Dehydration in Senescing Arabidopsis Leaves
Authors: Zhang Kewei , Gan Su-Sheng
Published: December 2011

AtNAP is a NAC family transcription factor gene that plays a key role in leaf senescence but its underlying mechanisms are not known. SENESCENCE-ASSOCIATED GENE113 (SAG113), a gene encoding a Golgi-localized protein phosphatase 2C family protein phosphatase, mediates abscisic acid (ABA)-regulated stomatal movement and water loss specifically during leaf senescence. Here we report that SAG113 is a direct target gene of the AtNAP transcription factor. We found that both AtNAP and SAG113 were induced by leaf senescence and ABA. When AtNAP was chemically induced, SAG113 was also induced whereas when AtNAP was knocked out, the ABA- and senescence-induced expression of SAG113 was reduced. These data suggest that the expression of SAG113 is predominantly dependent on AtNAP. Functionally, overexpression of SAG113 restored the markedly delayed leaf senescence phenotype in atnap knockouts to wild type. Yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) one-hybrid experiments and electrophoresis mobility shift assays showed that AtNAP could physically bind to the SAG113 promoter in vivo and in vitro, respectively. Site-directed mutagenesis revealed that AtNAP binds to a 9-bp core sequence of the SAG113 promoter, 5′CACGTAAGT3′. These results indicate that there is a unique regulatory chain, ABA-AtNAP-SAG113 protein phosphastase 2C, which controls stomatal movement and water loss during leaf senescence.
Co-Overexpression FIT with AtbHLH38 or AtbHLH39 in Arabidopsis-Enhanced Cadmium Tolerance via Increased Cadmium Sequestration in Roots and Improved Iron Homeostasis of Shoots
Authors: Wu Huilan , Chen Chunlin , Du Juan , Liu Hongfei , Cui Yan , Zhang Yue , He Yujing , Wang Yiqing , Chu Chengcai , Feng Zongyun , Li Junming , Ling Hong-Qing
Published: December 2011

Cadmium (Cd) is toxic to plant cells. Under Cd exposure, the plant displayed leaf chlorosis, which is a typical symptom of iron (Fe) deficiency. Interactions of Cd with Fe have been reported. However, the molecular mechanisms of Cd-Fe interactions are not well understood. Here, we showed that FER-like Deficiency Induced Transcripition Factor (FIT), AtbHLH38, and AtbHLH39, three basic helix-loop-helix transcription factors involved in Fe homeostasis in plants, also play important roles in Cd tolerance. The gene expression analysis showed that the expression of FIT, AtbHLH38, and AtbHLH39 was up-regulated in the roots of plants treated with Cd. The plants overexpressing AtbHLH39 and double-overexpressing FIT/AtbHLH38 and FIT/AtbHLH39 exhibited more tolerance to Cd exposure than wild type, whereas no Cd tolerance was observed in plants overexpressing either AtbHLH38 or FIT. Further analysis revealed that co-overexpression of FIT with AtbHLH38 or AtbHLH39 constitutively activated the expression of Heavy Metal Associated3 (HMA3), Metal Tolerance Protein3 (MTP3), Iron Regulated Transporter2 (IRT2), and Iron Regulated Gene2 (IREG2), which are involved in the heavy metal detoxification in Arabidopsis (Arabidopis thaliana). Moreover, co-overexpression of FIT with AtbHLH38 or AtbHLH39 also enhanced the expression of NICOTIANAMINE SYNTHETASE1 (NAS1) and NAS2, resulting in the accumulation of nicotiananamine, a crucial chelator for Fe transportation and homeostasis. Finally, we showed that maintaining high Fe content in shoots under Cd exposure could alleviate the Cd toxicity. Our results provide new insight to understand the molecular mechanisms of Cd tolerance in plants.
Polyphasic approach and typification of selected Phormidium strains (Cyanobacteria)
Authors: Sciuto Katia , Andreoli Carlo , Rascio Nicoletta , La Rocca Nicoletta , Moro Isabella
Published: December 2011

Cyanobacteria (phylum Cyanophyta/Cyanobacteria, class Cyanophyceae) are among the most widespread organisms and are able to adapt themselves to different extreme environments. These micro‐organisms have an important ecological role, given their ability to perform oxygenic photosynthesis, and are employed in different fields based on their ability to produce several bioactive compounds. Their prokaryotic nature, the presence of many cryptic species, and the coexistence of different nomenclature systems make the taxonomic identification of cyanobacteria particularly difficult. Moreover, for several species, the original reference strains (holotypes) are lacking. Increasingly, authors are using a polyphasic approach to characterize cyanobacteria, while typification is a recent trend that is being used to solve the problem of missing holotypes in other micro‐organisms. Here we focus on a filamentous cyanobacterium, isolated from the Euganean Thermal District (Padova, Italy) and temporarily named strain ETS‐02, using a polyphasic approach that includes morphological, ultrastructural, biochemical (pigment and fatty acid content), physiological (nitrogen fixation), and genetic (16S rRNA, 16S–23S ITS, cpcB‐IGS‐cpcA, rpoC1, gyrB, rbcL, nifD loci) analyses. The description of Phormidium cf. irriguum CCALA 759 as the epitype of Phormidium irriguum was also used to complete the characterization of strain ETS‐02.
In-vivoextravasation induces the expression of interleukin 1 receptor type 1 in human neutrophils
Authors: Paulsson J M , Moshfegh A , Dadfar E , Held C , Jacobson S H , Lundahl J
Published: December 2011

In order to address neutrophil activation during inflammation we assessed the expression of interleukin 1 receptor type 1 (IL-1R1) following in-vivo extravasation. Extravasated neutrophils were collected from 11 healthy study subjects by a skin chamber technique and compared to neutrophils in peripheral blood. Expression of IL-1R1 was assessed by microarray, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), Western blot, flow cytometry, enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and immunoelectron microscopy (iEM). IL-1R1 was induced following extravasation, demonstrated by both gene array and qPCR. Western blot demonstrated an increased expression of IL-1R1 in extravasated leucocytes. This was confirmed further in neutrophils by flow cytometry and iEM that also demonstrated an increased intracellular pool of IL-1R1 that could be mobilized by N-formyl-methionine-leucine-phenylalanine (fMLP). Stimulation of peripheral neutrophils with IL-1 resulted in transcription of NFκB and a number of downstream chemokines and the corresponding chemokines were also induced following in-vivo extravasation. The present results demonstrate that IL-1R1 is induced following extravasation and exists on the neutrophil surface, as well as in a mobile intracellular pool. Furthermore, neutrophils express functional IL-1R1 as demonstrated by the induction of chemokines following IL-1 stimulation. The results indicate a potential role for IL-1 in the activation of neutrophils at inflammatory sites.
Increased levels and adipose tissue expression of visfatin in morbidly obese women: the relationship with pro‐inflammatory cytokines
Authors: Terra Ximena , Auguet Teresa , Quesada Isabel , Aguilar Carmen , Luna Anna Maria , Hernández Mercé , Sabench Fátima , Porras José Antonio , Martínez Salomé , Lucas Anna , Pellitero Silvia , Llutart Jordi , del Castillo Daniel , Richart Cristóbal
Published: December 2011

Objective  The controversial results on the physiopathological role of visfatin led us to examine both circulating visfatin levels and gene expression in visceral (VAT) and subcutaneous fat (SAT) in a homogeneous group of morbidly obese women.

Design, patients and measurements  We analysed circulating levels of several adipo/cytokines in 133 Spanish women: 40 lean (C) [body mass index (BMI) < 25 kg/m2] and 93 morbidly obese (MO) (BMI > 40 kg/m2). In the MO group, we found 31 diabetic and 62 nondiabetic subjects. We obtained follow‐up blood samples at 6 and 12 months after bariatric surgery from 30 MO patients. We determined the circulating levels of visfatin, adiponectin, interleukin‐6 (IL6), C‐reactive protein (CRP), resistin and tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNFα) by ELISA, and visfatin, adiponectin, IL6, resistin and TNFα gene expression in SAT and VAT by real‐time RT‐PCR.

Results  Circulating visfatin levels were higher in MO women compared with lean controls (C = 1·43 ± 0·14 μg/l, MO = 3·60 ± 0·29 μg/l, P < 0·001). After bariatric surgery‐induced weight loss, visfatin levels were reduced significantly over 12 months. Visfatin expression in SAT and VAT was similar, but significantly higher in MO compared to C and independent of the presence of diabetes mellitus. Circulating visfatin levels were positively related to IL6 and CRP levels. Visfatin gene expression in VAT and SAT was strongly related to IL6 and TNFα expression.

Conclusion  In a homogeneous cohort of morbidly obese women, our findings show that visfatin has a strong relationship with pro‐inflammatory factors in severe obesity.
Update of the precision geoid determination in Korea
Authors: Bae Tae‐Suk , Lee Jisun , Kwon Jay Hyoun , Hong Chang‐Ki
Published: December 2011

From the late 1990s, many studies on local geoid construction have been made in South Korea. However, the precision of the previous geoid has remained about 15 cm due to distribution and quality problems of gravity and GPS/levelling data. Since 2007, new land gravity data and GPS/levelling data have been obtained through many projects such as the Korean Land Spatilaization, Unified Control Point and Gravity survey on the Benchmark. The newly obtained data are regularly distributed to a certain degree and show much better improvement in their quality. In addition, an airborne gravity survey was conducted in 2008 to cover the Korean peninsula (South Korea only). Therefore, it is expected that the precision of the geoid could be improved. In this study, the new South Korean gravimetric geoid and hybrid geoid are presented based on land, airborne, ship‐borne, altimeter gravity data, geopotential model and topographic data. As for the methodology, the general remove‐restore approach was applied with the best chosen parameters in order to produce a precise local geoid. The global geopotential model EGM08 was used to remove the low‐frequency components using degree and order up to 360 and the short wavelength part of the gravity signal was dealt with by using the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission data. The parameters determined empirically in this study include for Stokes’ integral 0.5° and for Wong‐Gore kernel 110–120°, respectively and 10 km for both the Bjerhammar sphere depth and attenuation factor. The final gravimetric geoid in South Korea ranges from 20–31 m with a precision of 5.45 cm overall compared to 1096 GPS/levelling data. In addition, the South Korean hybrid geoid produces 3.46 cm and 3.92 cm for degrees of fitness and precision, respectively and a better statistic of 2.37 cm for plain and urban areas was achieved. The gravimetric and hybrid geoids are expected to improve further when the refined land gravity data are included in the near future.
Two‐dimensional controlled‐source electromagnetic interferometry by multidimensional deconvolution: spatial sampling aspects
Authors: Hunziker Jürg , Slob Evert , Fan Yuanzhong , Snieder Roel , Wapenaar Kees
Published: December 2011

We use numerically modelled data sets to investigate the sensitivity of electromagnetic interferometry by multidimensional deconvolution to spatial receiver sampling. Interferometry by multidimensional deconvolution retrieves the reflection response below the receivers after decomposition of the fields into upward and downward decaying fields and deconvolving the upward decaying field by the downward decaying field. Thereby the medium above the receiver level is replaced with a homogeneous half‐space, the sources are redatumed to the receiver level and the direct field is removed. Consequently, in a marine setting the retrieved reflection response is independent of any effect of the water layer and the air above. A drawback of interferometry by multidimensional deconvolution is a possibly unstable matrix inversion, which is necessary to retrieve the reflection response. Additionally, in order to correctly separate the upward and the downward decaying fields, the electromagnetic fields need to be sampled properly. We show that the largest possible receiver spacing depends on two parameters: the vertical distance between the source and the receivers and the length of the source. The receiver spacing should not exceed the larger of these two parameters. Besides these two parameters, the presence of inhomogeneities close to the receivers may also require a dense receiver sampling. We show that by using the synthetic aperture concept, an elongated source can be created from conventionally acquired data in order to overcome these strict sampling criteria. Finally, we show that interferometry may work under real‐world conditions with random noise and receiver orientation and positioning errors.
Elastic properties of seafloor sediments from the modelling of amplitudes of multiple water waves recorded on the seafloor off Bear Island, North Atlantic
Authors: Grad Marek , Mjelde Rolf , Czuba Wojciech , Guterch Aleksander ,   the IPY Project Group
Published: December 2011

Wide‐angle seismic data acquired by use of air‐guns and ocean bottom seismometers (OBS) contain strong direct water arrivals and multiples, generally considered as noise and thus not included in the modelling. However, a recent study showed that standard ray‐tracing modelling of the water multiples recorded off the Bear Island, North Atlantic, provided a reliable estimate of the velocity distribution in the water layer. Here, we demonstrate that including the amplitudes in the modelling provide valuable information about the VP contrast at the seafloor, as well as the VP/VS ratio and attenuation (QP) of the uppermost sediments. The VP contrast at the seafloor is estimated at about 250 m/s, within a precision of approximately ±30 m/s. The VP/VS ratio in the uppermost sedimentary layer is modelled in the range 2.25–2.50 and the QP factor is estimated at 1000 for the water, 30–50 for the uppermost layer and 40–50 for the second sedimentary layer. The values obtained for the sediments suggest a lithology dominated by silty clays, with porosity below average.
Limitations to sustainable frankincense production: blocked regeneration, high adult mortality and declining populations
Authors: Groenendijk Peter , Eshete Abeje , Sterck Frank J. , Zuidema Pieter A. , Bongers Frans
Published: December 2011

1. Resins are highly valued non‐timber forest products (NTFP). One of the most widely traded resins is frankincense, tapped from several Boswellia tree species (Burseraceae). Exploited Boswellia populations often show poor regeneration, but the demographic consequences of these bottlenecks are unknown. Here we report on the first large‐scale demographic study of frankincense‐producing trees.

2. We studied 12 populations of Boswellia papyrifera in northern Ethiopia, varying in altitude and productivity. Six of these populations had been tapped before and were tapped during the study. Survival, growth and fecundity were determined for 4370 trees and 2228 seedlings, in 22.8 ha over a 2‐year period. We also studied a remote population where no grazing and tapping took place. Matrix models were used to project population growth and frankincense production under four restoration scenarios.

3. Population structures of both tapped and untapped populations showed clear gaps. Small seedlings were abundant in all populations, but none developed into persistent saplings. Such saplings were only present in the remote population. Fire and grazing are the likely causes of this regeneration bottleneck.

4. Adult mortality was high (6–7% per year) in both tapped and untapped populations, probably caused by beetle attacks and fire. Unexpectedly, tapped populations presented higher diameter growth rates and fecundity compared to untapped populations. These differences are probably caused by non‐random selection of exploited populations by tappers.

5. Under the ‘business as usual’ scenario, population models projected a 90% decline in the size of tapped and untapped populations within 50 years and a 50% decline in frankincense yield within 15 years. Model simulations for restoration scenarios revealed that populations and frankincense production could only be sustained with intensive management leading to full sapling recruitment and a 50–75% reduction in adult mortality.

6.
Synthesis and applications. Regeneration bottlenecks and high adult mortality are causing rapid decline in frankincense‐producing tree populations in Ethiopia. This decline is unlikely to be a consequence of harvesting and is probably driven by fire, grazing and beetle attacks. Fire prevention and the establishment of non‐grazing areas are needed. Our results show that other factors than exploitation may seriously threaten populations yielding NTFP.
Palaeodistribution modelling does not support disjunct Pleistocene refugia in several Central American plant taxa
Authors: Poelchau Monica F. , Hamrick J. L.
Published: December 2011

Aim  We combine evidence from palaeoniche modelling studies of several tree species to estimate the extent of Central American forest during the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM). In particular, we ask whether the distributions of these species are likely to have changed since the LGM, and whether LGM distributions coincide with previously proposed Pleistocene refugia in this area.

Location  Central American wet and seasonally dry forests.

Methods  We developed ecological niche models using two simulations of Pleistocene climate and occurrence data for 15 Neotropical plant species. We focused on palaeodistribution models of three ‘focal’ tree species that occur in wet and seasonally dry Central American forests, where recent phylogeographic data suggest Pleistocene differentiation coincident with previously proposed refugia. We added predictions from six wet‐forest and six seasonally dry‐forest obligate plant species to gauge whether Pleistocene range shifts were specific to habitat type. Correlation analyses were performed between projected LGM and present distributions, LGM distributions and previously proposed refugia. We also asked whether modelled palaeodistributions were smaller than their current extents.

Results  According to our models, the ranges of the study species were not reduced during the LGM, and did not correlate with refugial models, regardless of habitat type. Relative range sizes between present and LGM distributions did not indicate significant range changes since the LGM. However, relative range sizes differed overall between the two palaeoclimate models.

Main conclusions  Many of the modelled palaeodistributions of study species were not restricted to refugia during the LGM, regardless of forest type. While constrained from higher elevations, most species found suitable habitat at coastal margins and on newly exposed land due to lowered sea levels during the LGM. These results offer no corroboration for Pleistocene climate change as a driver of genetic differentiation in the ‘focal’ species. We offer alternative explanations for genetic differentiation found in plant species in this area.
Multiple Pleistocene refugia and post‐glacial colonization in the European chub (Squalius cephalus) revealed by combined use of nuclear and mitochondrial markers
Authors: Seifertová Mária , Bryja Josef , Vyskočilová Martina , Martínková Natália , Šimková Andrea
Published: December 2011

Aim  To analyse patterns of nuclear and mitochondrial genetic variation in the European chub, Squalius cephalus (Linnaeus, 1758), in order to understand the evolutionary history of this species and to test biogeographical hypotheses for the existence of co‐distributed European freshwater fish species.

Location  Rivers in Europe (Finland, Poland, Czech Republic, France, Bulgaria, Spain, Italy).

Methods  We genotyped 12 polymorphic microsatellite markers derived from 310 individuals collected from across the distribution of S. cephalus in Europe (including a total of 15 populations) and sequenced mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) from a subset of 75 individuals. Sequences of mtDNA cytochrome b were analysed using both phylogenetic (median‐joining networks) and population genetic methods (tests for demographic history, mismatch distributions, Bayesian coalescent analysis). Geographical structure in microsatellite loci was examined using a distance method (FST), factorial correspondence analysis (FCA) and a Bayesian clustering method (structure).

Results  The mtDNA network showed a clear split into four different haplogroup lineages: Western (separated into Atlantic and Danubian sublineages), Eastern, Aegean (occurring in two distinct sublineages in the Balkans and in Spain) and Adriatic. Our results indicate recent population expansion in the Eastern and Western Atlantic lineages and the admixture of two previously separate sublineages (Atlantic and Danubian) in the Western lineage. Bayesian structure analysis as well as FCA results roughly corresponded to the mtDNA‐based structure, separating the sampled individuals into almost non‐overlapping groups.

Main conclusions  Our results support hypotheses suggesting origins of extant lineages of freshwater fishes in multiple refugia and the subsequent post‐glacial colonization of Europe via different routes. We confirmed the previously proposed two‐step expansion scenario from the Danube refuge, the existence of a secondary (Atlantic) refuge during the last glaciation (probably in the Rhone River) and population expansion of this lineage. Conspicuous divergences among Mediterranean populations reflect their different origin, as well as their low contribution to the recent genetic pool of chub in central Europe.
Milestones on Steroids and the Nervous System: 10 Years of Basic and Translational Research
Authors: Panzica G. C. , Balthazart J. , Frye C. A. , Garcia‐Segura L. M. , Herbison A. E. , Mensah‐Nyagan A. G. , McCarthy M. M. , Melcangi R. C.
Published: December 2011

During the last 10 years, the conference on ‘Steroids and Nervous System’ held in Torino (Italy) has been an important international point of discussion for scientists involved in this exciting and expanding research field. The present review aims to recapitulate the main topics that have been presented through the various meetings. Two broad areas have been explored: the impact of gonadal hormones on brain circuits and behaviour, as well as the mechanism of action of neuroactive steroids. Relationships among steroids, brain and behaviour, the sexual differentiation of the brain and the impact of gonadal hormones, the interactions of exogenous steroidal molecules (endocrine disrupters) with neural circuits and behaviour, and how gonadal steroids modulate the behaviour of gonadotrophin‐releasing hormone neurones, have been the topics of several lectures and symposia during this series of meetings. At the same time, many contributions have been dedicated to the biosynthetic pathways, the physiopathological relevance of neurosteroids, the demonstration of the cellular localisation of different enzymes involved in neurosteroidogenesis, the mechanisms by which steroids may exert some of their effects, both the classical and nonclassical actions of different steroids, the role of neuroactive steroids on neurodegeneration, neuroprotection, and the response of the neural tissue to injury. In these 10 years, this field has significantly advanced and neuroactive steroids have emerged as new potential therapeutic tools to counteract neurodegenerative events.
Clinical study of psoriasis occurring over the age of 60 years: is elderly‐onset psoriasis a distinct subtype?
Authors: Kwon Hyuck Hoon , Kwon In Ho , Youn Jai Il
Published: December 2011

Background  Previous studies demonstrated clinical differences of early‐ and late‐onset psoriasis. However, epidemiological data and clinical characteristics of psoriasis occurring in geriatric patients have been rarely studied.

Objective  Assessment of epidemiology and clinical features of psoriasis first occurring over the age of 60 years, so‐called elderly‐onset psoriasis, based on clinical data.

Materials and methods  Among 4049 patients visiting our psoriasis clinic for the last 27 years, patients were first divided into early‐ (onset age before 30 years) and late‐onset psoriasis (onset age after 30 years) based on our previous studies. Then, patients of late‐onset psoriasis were further divided into middle age‐onset group (onset age between 30 and 60 years) and elderly‐onset group (onset age over 60 years). Clinical characteristics of elderly‐onset psoriasis were compared with early‐ and middle age‐onset groups. We acquired the data both by physician’s assessments and patients’ responses.

Results  Elderly‐onset patients comprised 3.2% of total patients, 129 out of 4049. They have shown a lower incidence of family history (P < 0.05). The severity assessed by PASI score, body surface extent, and activity of individual lesions demonstrated that psoriasis of the elderly‐onset group was generally milder compared with early‐ and middle age‐onset groups (P < 0.05). In clinical phenotypes, the proportion of guttate type and generalized pustular psoriasis type decreased remarkably, while that of erythroderma type increased (P < 0.05). There was a significant change in the body part of origin comparing early‐ and middle age‐onset groups (P < 0.05). The proportion of scalp increased, while that of knee–elbow and trunk decreased significantly (P < 0.05). Patients’ subjective sensation of disease course improved statistically comparing early‐ and middle age‐onset groups (P < 0.05). There was no significant change in the degree of pruritus on psoriatic lesions and nail involvement (P > 0.05).

Conclusion  The elderly‐onset group demonstrated milder disease courses and some changes in clinical phenotypes and body part of origin compared with early‐ and middle age‐onset groups. Therefore, it seems that patients whose onset of psoriasis was over the age of 60 years might have distinct clinical features in some clinical aspects.
Narrowband ultraviolet B (311 nm, TL01) phototherapy in chronic ordinary urticaria
Authors: Aydogan Kenan , Karadogan Serap Koran , Tunali Sukran , Saricaoglu Hayriye
Published: December 2011

Background  Chronic ordinary urticaria (COU) can severely reduce quality of life and be difficult to control. Ultraviolet (UV) A and UVB phototherapy has been reported to decrease the release of histamine from either mast cells and/or basophils. Previous small studies have suggested that UVB phototherapy is a good alternative treatment for COU.

Objectives  The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy of narrow‐band UVB (NB‐UVB) phototherapy for COU.

Materials and methods  Twenty‐two patients (three male, 19 female) received NB‐UVB phototherapy. These patients had not responded to at least two H1 antihistamines, and most had been treated with a variety of antihistamine combinations. Clinical responses were assessed according to an outcome scoring scale. During both visits, patients were administered the following: the visual analogue scale (VAS) on present pruritus and/or whealing; chronic urticaria impact on patients’ quality of life according to the interference with daily activities, quality of sleep, and flare‐up rates.

Results  The median number of treatments was 31.4 (9–44), and the mean top dose was 9.46 J/cm2 (1.1–16.4 J/cm2). NB‐UVB treatment led to clearance in 10 patients (45%), marked improvement in five (22%), and moderate improvement in seven (31%) patients according to an outcome scoring scale. Mild side effects were observed in two patients. Six patients who cleared or observed marked improvement remained clear at follow‐up for a period of six months to one year, and other patients had a few recurrent lesions that did not need retreatment. For VAS scores and total chronic urticaria impact on patients’ quality of life scores, the differences between baseline and after treatment scores were significantly lower (P < 0.001, P < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusion  Narrow‐band UVB (NB‐UVB) therapy is an effective, well‐tolerated treatment option in second‐line therapy for COU. This therapy can lead to subjective relief of pruritus and whealing and objective reduction of whealing. Further larger studies with longer follow‐up periods are necessary to determine the proper clinical response and long‐term complications of this therapy in COU.
UV‐B signaling pathways and fluence rate dependent transcriptional regulation of ARIADNE12
Authors: Lang‐Mladek Christina , Xie Lisi , Nigam Neha , Chumak Nina , Binkert Melanie , Neubert Susanne , Hauser Marie‐Theres
Published: December 2011

ARI12 belongs to a family of ‘RING between RING fingers' (RBR) domain proteins with E3 ligase activity (Eisenhaber et al. 2007). The Arabidopsis genome codes for 14 ARI genes and two pseudogenes (Mladek et al. 2003). Under standard growth conditions ARI12 is predominantly expressed in roots. In addition, ARI12 is strongly induced in leaves following exposure to ultraviolet (UV)‐B radiation at dosages similar to those in areas under a reduced ozone layer. With quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analyses and promoter:reporter constructs we show that the expression of ARI12 peaks 2–4 h after UV‐B radiation exposure. To test if ARI12's transcriptional activation depends on key players of the UV‐B signaling pathway, ARI12 expression was quantified in mutants of the ELONGATED HYPOCOTYL5 (HY5), HY5 HOMOLOG (HYH) and the UV RESISTANCE LOCUS8 (UVR8) genes. ARI12 transcription was reduced by 50–70% in hy5, hyh and hy5/hyh double mutants, but not in uvr8 mutants. However, under low fluence rate UV‐B conditions ARI12 is not induced in these mutants. Our results show that ARI12 represents a downstream target of the low fluence rate UVR8/HY5/HYH UV‐B signaling pathway while under high fluence rates its expression is regulated by the two bZIP transcription factors HY5 and HYH in an UVR8‐independent manner.