bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A systematic review and meta‐analysis of acupuncture in in vitro fertilisation
Authors: El‐Toukhy T , Sunkara SK , Khairy M , Dyer R , Khalaf Y , Coomarasamy A
Published: October 2008

Background  Numerous randomised studies have reported pregnancy outcome in women who received acupuncture during their in vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatment cycle.

Objective  The objective of this study was to conduct a systematic review with meta‐analysis of the trials of acupuncture during IVF treatment on the outcomes of clinical pregnancy and live birth rates.

Search strategy  Searches were conducted in MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, ISI Proceedings and SCISEARCH.

Selection criteria  All randomised controlled trials that evaluated the effects of acupuncture compared with no treatment or sham acupuncture in women undergoing IVF–intracytoplasmic sperm injection treatment were included.

Data collection and analysis  Study selection, quality appraisal and data extraction were performed independently and in duplicate. A sensitivity analysis was conducted where the meta‐analysis was restricted to trials in which sham acupuncture was used in the control group. Meta‐regression analysis was used to explore the association between study characteristics and pregnancy rates.

Main results  Thirteen relevant trials, including a total of 2500 women randomised to either acupuncture or control group, were identified. No evidence of publication bias was found (Begg’s test, P = 0.50). Five trials (n = 877) evaluated IVF outcome when acupuncture was performed around the time of transvaginal oocyte retrieval, while eight trials (n = 1623) reported IVF outcome when acupuncture was performed around the time of embryo transfer (ET). Meta‐analysis of the five studies of acupuncture around the time of egg collection did not show a significant difference in clinical pregnancy (relative risks [RR] = 1.06, 95% CI 0.82–1.37, P = 0.65). Meta‐analysis of the eight studies of acupuncture around the time of ET showed no difference in the clinical pregnancy rate (RR = 1.23, 95% CI 0.96–1.58, P = 0.1). Live birth data were available from five of the eight studies of acupuncture around the time of ET. Meta‐analysis of these studies did not show a significant increase in live birth rate with acupuncture (RR = 1.34, 95% CI 0.85–2.11). Using meta‐regression, no significant association between any of the studied covariates and clinical pregnancy rate was found (P > 0.05 for all covariates).

Conclusion  Currently available literature does not provide sufficient evidence that adjuvant acupuncture improves IVF clinical pregnancy rate.
Long‐term outcomes following laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy
Authors: Lieng M , Qvigstad E , Istre O , Langebrekke A , Ballard K
Published: October 2008

Objective  Evaluation of long‐term outcomes following laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy (LSH).

Design  Retrospective postal questionnaire.

Setting  Norwegian university teaching hospital.

Population  A total of 315 consecutive patients.

Methods  A questionnaire sent to all patients who underwent a LSH during 2004 and 2005.

Main outcome measures  Persistent vaginal bleeding and pelvic pain, patient acceptability of such symptoms and patient satisfaction following LSH.

Results  A total of 240 women (78%) completed the questionnaire. About 24% reported experiencing vaginal bleeding up to 3 years following their hysterectomy, although this was rated as minimal in 90% of cases, resulting in a mean bothersome score of 1.1 (SD 2.0) on a 10‐point visual analogue scale (VAS). Women operated on by less experienced surgeons were more likely to report vaginal bleeding following surgery (P = 0.02). About 74% of women reported having menstrual pain prior to surgery, with a mean score of 6.8 (SD 2.1) (10‐point VAS). Up to 3 years following surgery, 38% continued to experience menstrual pain, although this was significantly less intense with a mean score of 3.5 (SD 2.2) (P < 0.01). While all women reported a decrease in the amount of pain experienced following the hysterectomy, those having a hysterectomy because of endometriosis reported significantly higher levels of menstrual/cyclical pain after surgery compared with women who had a hysterectomy for other reasons (P < 0.01). Ninety per cent of women reported being satisfied with their surgery.

Conclusion  Although vaginal bleeding and pelvic pain are frequently observed following LSH, these symptoms are significantly reduced and patient satisfaction is high.
Sensitivity and specificity of intrapartum computerised FIGO criteria for cardiotocography and fetal scalp pH during labour: multicentre, observational study
Authors: Schiermeier S , Pildner von Steinburg S , Thieme A , Reinhard J , Daumer M , Scholz M , Hatzmann W , Schneider KTM
Published: October 2008

Objective  To identify sensitivity and specificity of computerised cardiotocography (CTG) analysis for fetal acidosis during delivery.

Design  Retrospective observational study.

Setting  Tertiary referral labour ward, Technical University München (TUM) and University Witten/Herdecke (UWH).

Population  All deliveries, which had at least one fetal scalp pH measurement and electronically saved CTG traces, between 2000 and 2002 (TUM) and between 2004 and 2005 (UWH).

Method  Correlation analysis of fetal scalp pH values and computerised International Federation of Obstetrics and Gynecology (FIGO) classification using ‘CTG Online®’ program of digitally saved CTG traces.

Main outcome measures  Fetal scalp pH values, FIGO parameter (baseline, variability, acceleration and deceleration) using computerised analysis.

Results  Both collectives showed a high sensitivity (95.0%) for computerised FIGO classification ‘suspect’ and ‘pathological’, together with a low specificity (21.8%) for fetal acidosis. The most sensitive single FIGO parameter was deceleration. Very low sensitivity (<50%) was shown for the parameters variability and acceleration.

Conclusions  Computerised CTG analysis is highly sensitive for fetal acidosis and can be used as an objective adjunctive criterion during delivery. Further CTG data are needed to adjust and optimise each FIGO parameter and increase sensitivity and specificity.
Nausea and vomiting of pregnancy: what about quality of life?
Authors: Lacasse A , Rey E , Ferreira E , Morin C , Bérard A
Published: October 2008

Objective  The objective of this study was to determine the impact of nausea and vomiting of pregnancy (NVP) and other determinants on generic and NVP‐specific health‐related quality of life (QOL) in the first trimester of pregnancy.

Design  Prospective study.

Setting  Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Sainte‐Justine or René‐Laennec clinics, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.

Population  Pregnant women attending the clinics for their prenatal care from 2004 to 2006. Women were eligible if they were ≥18 years of age and ≤16 weeks of gestation at the time of their first prenatal visit.

Methods  After their first prenatal visit, women were asked to fill out a questionnaire covering maternal characteristics, presence and severity of NVP, and health‐related QOL.

Main outcome measures  QOL was measured by the generic 12‐item Short Form Health Survey v.1 (SF‐12) and the NVP‐specific Quality of Life for Nausea and Vomiting during Pregnancy.

Results  Of the 367 pregnant women included in the study, 78.5% of women reported NVP in the first trimester of pregnancy. Multivariable linear models showed that presence of NVP in the first trimester of pregnancy was significantly associated with a lower physical component summary scale (P < 0.0001) and mental component summary scale (P = 0.0066) of the SF‐12 scores. More severe NVP (moderate versus mild: P = 0.0002; severe versus mild: P = 0.0177 as measured by the validated modified Pregnancy‐Unique Quantification of Emesis and Nausea index), intensity of nausea symptoms reported on a visual analogue scale (P < 0.0001), and nonpharmacological methods used to ease NVP symptoms in the first trimester of pregnancy (P = 0.0059) were significantly associated with poorer NVP‐specific QOL among women suffering from NVP.

Conclusion  These findings show that presence and severity of NVP have a negative impact on health‐related QOL, which emphasises the importance of an optimal management of NVP.
Twenty years of understorey bird extinctions from Amazonian rain forest fragments: consistent trends and landscape‐mediated dynamics
Authors: Stouffer Philip C. , Strong Cheryl , Naka Luciano N.
Published: October 2008

Aim  We analysed presence/absence data for understorey bird species in rain forest fragments sampled from 1979 through 2001. Here we consider extinctions between 1992, when most fragments had been isolated for at least 8 years, and 2001. Our objectives were to determine whether high extinction rates documented soon after isolation continued through up to 20 years after isolation, and to examine fragment size and landscape effects on extinction.

Location  Biological Dynamics of Forest Fragments Project, near Manaus, Brazil.

Methods  Through 1992, birds were surveyed with standardized mist net sampling in ten 1‐ to 100‐ha fragments. We repeated the mist net protocol in 2000–01. We also added remote taping of the dawn chorus and tape playback surveys for species captured in 1991–92 but not in 2000–01.

Results  Between 1992 and 2001, 37 species went extinct in at least one fragment. As expected, extinction rate decreased with increasing fragment size. Over 30% of species went extinct in 1‐ha fragments, compared to about 5% in 100‐ha fragments. Extinction followed a predictable pattern: most species lost from 100‐ha fragments between 1992 and 2001 had already gone extinct in smaller fragments before 1992. Despite extinctions, fragments gained species between 1992 and 2001, apparently due to species moving through the developing second growth matrix. Fragments surrounded by old second growth had lower extinction rates than predicted based on fragment size alone.

Main conclusions  Sequential extinctions occurred for at least 20 years. Some additional species previously lost from smaller fragments may continue to go extinct in 100‐ha fragments. At the same time, species assemblages in 1‐ and 10‐ha fragments mostly reflect second‐growth dynamics by 20 years after isolation. High species loss predicted from the first few years after isolation has not occurred, almost certainly because of recolonization.
Enhanced niche opportunities: can they explain the success of New Zealand's introduced bird species?
Authors: MacLeod Catriona J. , Newson Stuart E. , Blackwell Grant , Duncan Richard P.
Published: October 2008

Aim The niche hypothesis could explain why some species introduced to new locations reach higher densities than in their native range: it posits that the new environment provides more abundant or higher quality resources or habitat, a more suitable physical environment or both. We investigate whether 11 bird species occur at higher densities in their introduced range than in their native range and whether the differences can be explained by the availability of preferred habitat or the suitability of climatic conditions in their introduced range relative to their native range.

Location South Island, New Zealand (the introduced range); UK (the native range).

Methods We first develop a series of models that accurately predict the density of 11 bird species at 54 UK farmland sites, which are closely matched to our New Zealand sites, from habitat and climatic variables. We then use these models to predict the density of the 11 species at 54 New Zealand farmland sites and compare the predicted and observed values.

Results Actual densities at New Zealand sites were on average (median) 22 times (range: 1–6361) higher than predicted from the UK models and similarly higher than actually observed at comparable UK sites. Habitat and climatic variables can accurately predict bird densities in the UK but grossly underestimate densities for all species exceptTurdus merulain New Zealand.

Main conclusions These findings indicate that factors other than the measured habitat and climatic variables must differ between the two regions and explain the much higher densities of New Zealand birds. We suggest that introduced birds, other thanT. merula, in New Zealand may still experience enhanced niche opportunities due to greater availability of higher quality resources within habitats, release from natural enemy regulation, less exposure to extreme weather events, particularly during winter, or some combination of these processes.
Range‐wide patterns of greater sage‐grouse persistence
Authors: Aldridge Cameron L. , Nielsen Scott E. , Beyer Hawthorne L. , Boyce Mark S. , Connelly John W. , Knick Steven T. , Schroeder Michael A.
Published: October 2008

Aim   Greater sage‐grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus), a shrub‐steppe obligate species of western North America, currently occupies only half its historical range. Here we examine how broad‐scale, long‐term trends in landscape condition have affected range contraction.

Location   Sagebrush biome of the western USA.

Methods   Logistic regression was used to assess persistence and extirpation of greater sage‐grouse range based on landscape conditions measured by human population (density and population change), vegetation (percentage of sagebrush habitat), roads (density of and distance to roads), agriculture (cropland, farmland and cattle density), climate (number of severe and extreme droughts) and range periphery. Model predictions were used to identify areas where future extirpations can be expected, while also explaining possible causes of past extirpations.

Results   Greater sage‐grouse persistence and extirpation were significantly related to sagebrush habitat, cultivated cropland, human population density in 1950, prevalence of severe droughts and historical range periphery. Extirpation of sage‐grouse was most likely in areas having at least four persons per square kilometre in 1950, 25% cultivated cropland in 2002 or the presence of three or more severe droughts per decade. In contrast, persistence of sage‐grouse was expected when at least 30 km from historical range edge and in habitats containing at least 25% sagebrush cover within 30 km. Extirpation was most often explained (35%) by the combined effects of peripherality (within 30 km of range edge) and lack of sagebrush cover (less than 25% within 30 km). Based on patterns of prior extirpation and model predictions, we predict that 29% of remaining range may be at risk.

Main Conclusions   Spatial patterns in greater sage‐grouse range contraction can be explained by widely available landscape variables that describe patterns of remaining sagebrush habitat and loss due to cultivation, climatic trends, human population growth and peripherality of populations. However, future range loss may relate less to historical mechanisms and more to recent changes in land use and habitat condition, including energy developments and invasions by non‐native species such as cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum) and West Nile virus. In conjunction with local measures of population performance, landscape‐scale predictions of future range loss may be useful for prioritizing management and protection. Our results suggest that initial conservation efforts should focus on maintaining large expanses of sagebrush habitat, enhancing quality of existing habitats, and increasing habitat connectivity.
Genetic diversity and structure of the invasive tree Miconia calvescens in Pacific islands
Authors: Le Roux Johannes J. , Wieczorek Ania M. , Meyer Jean‐Yves
Published: October 2008

Aim  This study investigates the amount and distribution of genetic variation within and among populations of the highly invasive tree, Miconia calvescens (Melastomataceae; hereafter miconia), in tropical island habitats that are differently impacted (distribution and spread) by this weed.

Location  Invasive populations were included from northern and southern Pacific islands including the Hawaiian Islands (Hawaii, Kauai and Maui), Marquesas Islands (Nuku Hiva), Society Islands (Tahiti, Tahaa, Moorea, Raiatea) and New Caledonia.

Methods  We used 9 codominant microsatellite and 77 highly variable dominant intersimple sequence repeat markers (ISSRs) to characterize and compare genetic diversity among and within invasive miconia populations. For the codominant microsatellite data we calculated standard population genetic estimates (heterozygosity, number of alleles, inbreeding coefficients, etc.) and described population genetic structure using AMOVA, Mantel tests (to test for isolation by distance), unweighted pair‐group method with arithmetic averages (UPGMA) cluster analysis and principal components analysis (PCA). We also tested for the presence of a population bottleneck and used a Bayesian analysis of population structure in combination with individual assignment tests. For the dominant ISSR data we used AMOVA, PCA, upgma and a Bayesian approach to investigate population genetic structure.

Results  Both markers types showed little to no genetic differentiation among miconia populations from northern and southern Pacific hemispheres (AMOVA: microsatellite, 3%; ISSR, 0%). Bayesian and frequency‐based analysis also failed to support geographical genetic structure, confirming considerable low genetic differentiation throughout the Pacific. Molecular data furthermore showed that highly successful miconia populations throughout the Pacific are currently undergoing severe bottlenecks and high levels of inbreeding (f = 0.91, ISSR; FIS = 0.27, microsatellite).

Main conclusions  The lack of population genetic structure is indicative of similar geographical sources for both hemispheres and small founding populations. Differences in invasive spread and distribution among Pacific islands are most likely the result of differences in introduction dates to different islands and their accompanying lag phases. Miconia has been introduced to relatively few tropical islands in the Pacific, and the accidental introduction of a few or even a single seed into favourable habitats could lead to high invasive success.
Physiological indicators of stress in African forest elephants (Loxodonta africana cyclotis) in relation to petroleum operations in Gabon, Central Africa
Authors: Munshi‐South Jason , Tchignoumba Landry , Brown Janine , Abbondanza Nicole , Maldonado Jésus E. , Henderson Ann , Alonso Alfonso
Published: October 2008

Aim  Human activities are major determinants of forest elephant (Loxodonta africana cyclotis) distribution in Gabon, but the types and intensity of disturbance that elephants can tolerate are not known. We conducted dung surveys within the Gamba Complex of Protected Areas in SW Gabon to examine (1) the feasibility of noninvasive faecal analyses for monitoring stress physiology, and (2) the influence of petroleum operations on stress levels in forest elephants.

Location  Gabon, Central Africa.

Methods  We identified multiple dung piles from the same individual by matching their eight‐locus microsatellite genotypes, and measured faecal concentrations of glucocorticoid metabolites as an indicator of stress in areas subject to different levels of disturbance: (1) Loango National Park (2) an ‘industrial corridor’ dominated by oil fields, and (3) a nearby area of human settlements.

Results  We obtained unique microsatellite genotypes and faecal glucocorticoid metabolite (FGM) concentrations for 150 forest elephant individuals, which is the largest hormonal data set for wild African forest elephants to date. Adults exhibited higher mean FGM concentrations than juveniles, and in contradiction of our expectations of chronic stress around oil fields, elephants in Loango National Park exhibited significantly higher FGM concentrations than elephants in the industrial corridor.

Main conclusions  We argue that forest elephants in the industrial corridor of the Gamba Complex have become acclimated to oil fields, resulting in part from oil company regulations that minimize stressful interactions between elephants and petroleum operations. Our findings for a flagship species with substantial ecological requirements bode well for other taxa, but additional studies are needed to determine whether oil operations are compatible over their life span with rain forest ecosystems in Central Africa.
Measuring community responses to large‐scale disturbance in conservation biogeography
Authors: Devictor Vincent , Robert Alexandre
Published: October 2008

Aim  Which community metrics should be used to reflect community response to large‐scale habitat alterations is unclear. Here, we assess what and how community changes should be measured to accurately track community responses to large‐scale disturbance in space and/or time.

Location  France.

Method  We first developed a simulation model to examine temporal changes in the species composition of large‐scale metacommunities. Using this model, we assessed how species richness, Shannon index, trends of particular subset of species or community indices of habitat specialization were influenced by different disturbance scenarios, and whether these indices were biased by imperfect detectability. We further used more than 1000 empirical bird communities from the French Breeding Bird Survey recently exposed to disturbances of various intensities as a case study.

Results  Our simulation and empirical results both demonstrate that species richness and diversity measures can show confusing trends and even provide misleading messages of communities’ fate. In contrast, reflecting the composition of the community in terms of habitat specialist and generalist species was more robust and powerful to reflect disturbance effects.

Main conclusions  We highlight the weakness of using community metrics that fail to incorporate ecological difference among species when summarizing community‐level trends in disturbed landscapes.
Species richness of herbivores on exotic host plants increases with time since introduction of the host
Authors: Brändle Martin , Kühn Ingolf , Klotz Stefan , Belle Christina , Brandl Roland
Published: October 2008

Aim  Species richness of insect herbivores feeding on exotic plants increases with abundance as well as range size of the host in the area of introduction. The formation of these herbivore assemblages requires a certain amount of time, and the richness of insect faunas should also increase with the length of time an exotic plant has been present in the introduced range.

Location  Central Europe.

Methods  We analysed the variation in species richness of leaf‐chewing Lepidoptera larvae and sap‐sucking Auchenorrhyncha (Hemiptera) associated with 103 exotic woody plant species in Germany in relation to time since introduction, range size, growth form (trees versus shrubs), biogeographical origin (distance from Central Europe) and taxonomic isolation of the host plant (presence or absence of a native congener in the introduced area).

Results  Using simple correlation analyses we found for Lepidoptera and Auchenorrhyncha that species richness increased with time since introduction of the host plant. For the Lepidoptera the increase of species richness with time since introduction remained significant even after removing the effects of all other independent variables.

Main conclusions  Our results provide some evidence that assemblages of insects on exotic plants do not reach saturation within a time scale of few hundred years. This contrasts with previous findings for crop plants.
Temporal variability of nestedness and idiosyncratic species in stream insect assemblages
Authors: Heino Jani , Mykrä Heikki , Muotka Timo
Published: October 2008

Aims   The nested subset pattern has been widely studied in the last 20 years, and recent syntheses have challenged the prevalence of this pattern in nature. We examined the degree of nestedness, its temporal variability and its environmental correlates in stream insects of a boreal drainage system. We also examined differences between nested and idiosyncratic species in site occupancy, niche position and niche breadth.

Location   Koutajoki drainage basin in northern Finland.

Methods   We used (i) nestedness analyses with three null models for testing the significance of nestedness; (ii) Spearman rank correlation to examine the correlates of nestedness; (iii) outlying mean index analysis to analyse the niche characteristics of species; (iv) and t‐test to examine differences in niche breadth, niche position and site occupancy of idiosyncratic and other nested species.

Results   Stream insect assemblages were significantly nested in each of the three study years. The maximally packed matrices were significantly nested according to the nestedness calculator based on null models I (species frequencies and site richness equiprobable) and II (species frequencies fixed and site richness equiprobable), but non‐significant based on a conservative null model III (species frequencies and site richness fixed to those of the observed matrix). The most important correlate of nestedness was stream size, whereas isolation, productivity (total phosphorus) and habitat heterogeneity exhibited non‐significant relationship with nestedness. Idiosyncratic species occurred, on average, at more sites than nested species, mirroring the restricted distributions of several nested species that were inclined towards species‐rich sites. Idiosyncratic and nested species also differed in niche position and niche breadth, with idiosyncratic species having, on average, less marginal niche positions and wider niches than nested species.

Main conclusions  Stream size correlated with nestedness, possibly because small streams were inhabited only by species able to persist under, or colonize shortly after, disturbances, while most species could occur at larger sites where disturbances are less severe. From the conservation perspective, our findings suggest that stream size really matters, given that sites with high species richness and many rare species are more likely to occur in larger streams. However, also the requirements of idiosyncratic species should be accommodated in conservation planning.
Long‐term variability of Abies alba in NW Romania: implications for its conservation management
Authors: Feurdean Angelica , Willis Katherine J.
Published: October 2008

Aim  Although Abies alba is not yet prioritized for conservation in many European countries, its importance is acknowledged under the EU Directive on the marketing for forest reproductive material. The Apuseni National Park contains one of the largest areas of remnant native A. alba in central eastern Europe. Here, we examine the antiquity of the present A. alba communities in the forests of NW Romania and the drivers behind their variability over the last 6000 years leading to current distribution pattern.

Location  The Apuseni National Park (ANP), NW Romania.

Methods  We use fossil pollen, microscopic and macroscopic charcoal and AMS14C dating on four sedimentary sites in the west‐central ANP.

Results  The results reveal that stands of A. alba have been growing in NW Romania from at least 5700 yr bp and occurred in low abundance until 4200 yr bp. A. alba expanded thereafter and it thrived in multispecies forest stands with Fagus, Picea, Carpinus, Tilia, Quercus and Ulmus between 4200 and 1200 yr bp. The initial expansion occurred during an independently documented period of high moisture and cooler temperature as inferred from isotope data from cave stalagmites within this region. The final decline in A. alba abundance and distribution started from about 1200 yr bp and reached an unprecedently low value over the last 300 years, which was primarily caused by the increase in human activities in the region through deforestation, forest browsing and burning, and commercial forestry.

Main conclusion  Different management strategies ranging from restriction on harvesting and browsing need to be implemented in this region if A. alba is going to survive the forecasted decrease in precipitation and increase in temperature, which will further reduce its spatial distribution.
European map of alien plant invasions based on the quantitative assessment across habitats
Authors: Chytrý Milan , Pyšek Petr , Wild Jan , Pino Joan , Maskell Lindsay C. , Vilà Montserrat
Published: October 2008

Aim  Recent studies using vegetation plots have demonstrated that habitat type is a good predictor of the level of plant invasion, expressed as the proportion of alien to all species. At local scale, habitat types explain the level of invasion much better than alien propagule pressure. Moreover, it has been shown that patterns of habitat invasion are consistent among European regions with contrasting climates, biogeography, history and socioeconomic background. Here we use these findings as a basis for mapping the level of plant invasion in Europe.

Location  European Union and some adjacent countries.

Methods  We used 52,480 vegetation plots from Catalonia (NE Spain), Czech Republic and Great Britain to quantify the levels of invasion by neophytes (alien plant species introduced after ad 1500) in 33 habitat types. Then we estimated the proportion of each of these habitat types in CORINE land‐cover classes and calculated the level of invasion for each class. We projected the levels of invasion on the CORINE land‐cover map of Europe, extrapolating Catalonian data to the Mediterranean bioregion, Czech data to the Continental bioregion, British data to the British Isles and combined Czech–British data to the Atlantic and Boreal bioregions.

Results  The highest levels of invasion were predicted for agricultural, urban and industrial land‐cover classes, low levels for natural and semi‐natural grasslands and most woodlands, and the lowest levels for sclerophyllous vegetation, heathlands and peatlands. The resulting map of the level of invasion reflected the distribution of these land‐cover classes across Europe.

Main conclusions  High level of invasion is predicted in lowland areas of the temperate zone of western and central Europe and low level in the boreal zone and mountain regions across the continent. Low level of invasion is also predicted in the Mediterranean region except its coastline, river corridors and areas with irrigated agricultural land.
Threats and biodiversity in the mediterranean biome
Authors: Underwood Emma C. , Viers Joshua H. , Klausmeyer Kirk R. , Cox Robin L. , Shaw M. Rebecca
Published: October 2008

Aim  Global conservation assessments recognize the mediterranean biome as a priority for the conservation of the world's biodiversity. To better direct future conservation efforts in the biome, an improved understanding of the location, magnitude and trend of key threats and their relationship with species of conservation importance is needed.

Location  Mediterranean‐climate regions in California‐Baja California, Chile, South Africa, Australia and the Mediterranean Basin.

Methods  We undertook a systematic, pan‐regional assessment of threats in the mediterranean biome including human population density, urban area and agriculture. To realize the full implications of these threats on mediterranean biodiversity, we examined their relationship with species of conservation concern: threatened mammals at the global scale and threatened plants at the subecoregional scale in California, USA.

Results  Across the biome, population density and urban area increased by 13% and agriculture by 1% between 1990 and 2000. Both population density and urban area were greatest in California‐Baja California and least in Australia while, in contrast, agriculture was greatest in Australia and least in California‐Baja California. In all regions lowlands were most affected by the threats analysed, with the exception of population density in the Chilean matorral. Threatened species richness had a significant positive correlation with population density at global and subecoregional scales, while threatened species were found to increase with the amount of urban area and decrease as the amount of natural area and unfragmented core area increased.

Main conclusions  Threats to mediterranean biodiversity have increased from 1990 to 2000, although patterns vary both across and within the five regions. The need for future conservation efforts is further underlined by the positive correlation between species of conservation concern and the increase in population density over the last decade. Challenges to reducing threats extend beyond those analysed to include human–environmental interactions and their synergistic effects, such as urbanization and invasive species and wildfires.
Global biogeographical data bases on marine fishes: caveat emptor
Authors: Robertson D. Ross
Published: October 2008

A review of georeferenced collection‐site records for Caribbean shore‐fishes served by major online distributors of aggregated biodiversity data found large‐scale errors in over a third of the species and genera, in nearly two‐thirds of the families. To avoid compromising the value of their services to the global science community online providers must actively address the question of data quality.
Foundations for conservation of intraspecific genetic diversity revealed by analysis of phylogeographical structure in the endangered endemic lizard Podarcis lilfordi
Authors: Terrasa B. , Pérez‐Mellado V. , Brown R. P. , Picornell A. , Castro J. A. , Ramon M. M.
Published: October 2008

Aim  To describe and analyse phylogeographical patterns in the endangered endemic lizard Podarcis lilfordi from across its remaining range and thereby establish baseline information on genetic diversity that will help determine conservation priorities and assist future reintroduction programs.

Location  Balearic Islands, Spain.

Methods  We analysed mitochondrial DNA (2382 bp sequence from eight genes) from 118 individuals and characterized the relationships among haplotypes using parsimony networks, as well as phylogenetic inference. Analyses of historical gene flow and population growth were used to provide further insights into population histories.

Results  Four unconnected parsimony networks were obtained that mirrored the main clades in the phylogenetic tree: (I) all Menorcan populations, (II) Dragonera, Malgrats and Toro islands (Western Mallorca) (III and IV) and the remaining populations from Cabrera and Mallorca. Two major haplotype groups were detected in Menorca (I) and these provided signatures of a demographic expansion and asymmetrical historical gene flow, respectively, concordant with the expected direction of colonization from south to north of the island. Populations from western Mallorca (II) showed evidence of historical allopatric fragmentation events following isolation around the start of the Pleistocene. In networks III and IV, Cabreran populations appear to have become isolated from north and south Mallorca quite recently, with asymmetric gene flow indicating a northwards dispersal direction.

Main conclusions  P. lilfordi is a genetically diverse species that shows substantial mtDNA structuring both between regions and, at a finer scale, between some islet populations within regions. The precarious state of some islet populations shown here to be quite divergent (e.g. Toro island in western Mallorca) means that conservation of this intraspecific biodiversity requires urgent action.
Reducing redundancy in invasion ecology by integrating hypotheses into a single theoretical framework
Authors: Catford Jane A. , Jansson Roland , Nilsson Christer
Published: October 2008

Aim  Invasion ecology includes many hypotheses. Empirical evidence suggests that most of these can explain the success of some invaders to some degree in some circumstances. If they all are correct, what does this tell us about invasion? We illustrate the major themes in invasion ecology, and provide an overarching framework that helps organize research and foster links among subfields of invasion ecology and ecology more generally.

Location  Global.

Methods  We review and synthesize 29 leading hypotheses in plant invasion ecology. Structured around propagule pressure (P), abiotic characteristics (A) and biotic characteristics (B), with the additional influence of humans (H) on P, A and B (hereon PAB), we show how these hypotheses fit into one paradigm. P is based on the size and frequency of introductions, A incorporates ecosystem invasibility based on physical conditions, and B includes the characteristics of invading species (invasiveness), the recipient community and their interactions. Having justified the PAB framework, we propose a way in which invasion research could progress.

Results  By highlighting the common ground among hypotheses, we show that invasion ecology is encumbered by theoretical redundancy that can be removed through integration. Using both holistic and incremental approaches, we show how the PAB framework can guide research and quantify the relative importance of different invasion mechanisms.

Main conclusions  If the prime aim is to identify the main cause of invasion success, we contend that a top‐down approach that focuses on PAB maximizes research efficiency. This approach identifies the most influential factors first, and subsequently narrows the number of potential causal mechanisms. By viewing invasion as a multifaceted process that can be partitioned into major drivers and broken down into a series of sequential steps, invasion theory can be rigorously tested, understanding improved and effective weed management techniques identified.
Predicting global abundance of a threatened species from its occurrence: implications for conservation planning
Authors: Figueiredo Marcos S. L. , Grelle Carlos Eduardo V.
Published: October 2008

Aim Global abundance is an important characteristic of a species that is correlated with geographical distribution and body size. Despite its importance these estimates are not available since reliable field estimates are either expensive or difficult to obtain. Based on the relationship between a species’ local abundance and distribution, some authors propose that abundance can be obtained through spatial distribution data from maps plotted at different scales. This has never been tested over the entire geographical range of a species. Thus, the aim of this study was to estimate global abundance of the Neotropical primateBrachyteles hypoxanthus(northern muriqui) and compare the results with available field estimates.

Location From southern Bahia to Minas Gerais and Espírito Santo states, in the Brazilian Atlantic rain forest.

Methods We compiled 25 recent occurrence localities ofB. hypoxanthusand plotted them in grid cells of five different sizes (1, 25, 50, 75 and 100 km per side) to evaluate the performance and accuracy of abundance estimates over a wide range of scales. The abundance estimates were obtained by the negative binomial distribution (NBD) method and corrected by average group size to take into account primate social habits. To assess the accuracy of the method, the predicted abundances were then compared to recent independent field estimates.

Results The NBD estimates were quite accurate in predictingB. hypoxanthusglobal abundance, once the gregarious habits of this species are taken into account. The predicted abundance estimates were not statistically different from those obtained from field estimates.

Main conclusions The NBD method seems to be a quick and reliable approach to estimate species abundance once several limiting factors are taken into account, and can greatly impact conservation planning, but further applications in macroecological and ecological theory testing needs improvement of the method.
Habitat diversity, ecological requirements of species and the Small Island Effect
Authors: Sfenthourakis Spyros , Triantis Kostas A.
Published: October 2008

Aim  To explore the causal factors leading to a significant Small Island Effect (SIE), that is, the absence of the commonly found species–area relationships below an island size, on the terrestrial isopod communities from a large number of islands.

Location  Ninety islands of the Aegean Sea (Greece).

Methods  The detection of a significant SIE is assessed through the application of all three methods available in the literature. Species are divided into generalists and specialists. We tested if the minimum area and the area range of each species’ occurrences differ between generalists and specialists. Next, we searched for differences in the ratios of specialists to generalists above and below the SIE threshold, and tested their cumulative ratios when islands are arranged according to increasing area, altitude or habitat diversity in order to identify the threshold where they become statistically indistinguishable from the ratio of the total set of islands.

Results  Our results indicate a strong effect of habitat availability on the SIE. Communities of islands within the SIE range, host a higher percentage of generalists. An analysis of the specific habitat requirements shows that, for isopods, the crucial factor is the lack of habitats related to inland waters from small islands.

Main conclusions  The distribution of habitats on islands of different size is of major importance for the occurrence of a SIE. The relative representation of specialist and generalist species on islands of different size plays an important role in shaping SIE‐related patterns. Conservation efforts should pay special attention on freshwater habitats, especially on small Aegean islands. Identifying the causal factors of SIE, combined with a thorough knowledge of the ecological requirements of species can offer insights into identifying habitat types and groups of species that are more vulnerable to alterations of the environment.
An approach to the critical assessment of the experimental conditions in practical molecular biology: isolation of plant DNA
Authors: Scarafoni Alessio , Duranti Marcello
Published: October 2008

A plant molecular biology laboratory class experiment, based on real lab situations, is proposed to illustrate to the students how the assessment of the experimental conditions and the correct application of the technical details are critical also with an established procedure. During plant genomic DNA isolation and purification, a number of undesired effects, including DNA shearing and formation of secondary compounds, may take place. To simulate such events, we have set up a simple practical laboratory experiment in which the students are asked to isolate plant DNA under three different working conditions, from an optimal to a coarse one. The subsequent analyses on the extracted DNA enable the students to evaluate the influence of these different manipulations on DNA yield and quality. The experiment described can help the students to adopt a critical approach when interpreting the results of common preparative molecular techniques. © 2001 IUBMB. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
Student reactions and learning: evaluation of a biochemistry course that uses web technology and student collaboration
Authors: Traver Holly A. , Kalshery Michael J. , Diwan Joyce J. , Warden Joseph
Published: October 2008

Many academic institutions across the country are incorporating computer and Internet technology into their classrooms. Rensselaer has developed a studio classroom that incorporates student collaboration and Internet technology. The purpose of this research was to examine student reactions and learning in an undergraduate biochemistry course taught in a studio classroom. Student reactions to the course, the technology, and working in groups were positive. Students liked using the technology, felt it helped them to learn the material, and thought working in groups was beneficial for learning. Pre‐test and post‐test grades on a standardized examination indicated a significant increase in learning. In addition, positive reactions to using the technology in the course, as well as student confidence to do well in the course, were significantly related to improved course performance. © 2001 IUBMB. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
Fluorescence spectroscopy in biochemistry: teaching basic principles with visual demonstrations
Authors: Croney John C. , Jameson David M. , Learmonth Robert P.
Published: October 2008

Although most biochemistry curricula include some treatment of light absorption and spectrophotometry, discussion of fluorescence spectroscopy is generally omitted. This omission is unfortunate given the increasing use of fluorescence in many fields of biochemical research. In this paper we briefly review the principles and applications of fluorescence in biochemical systems, from the viewpoint of teaching fluorescence in undergraduate curricula. Simple practical demonstrations are presented, which clearly demonstrate important concepts yet require minimal specialized equipment. © 2001IUBMB. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
The AAA amino acid list a mnemonic derivation of the structures and properties of the amino acids
Authors: Mezl Vasek A.
Published: October 2008

A rhymed presentation of the amino acids, consisting of one line per amino acid, gives the structures of the amino acids, their nomenclature, abbreviations, pKs, basic chemistry, dietary requirements and the characteristics of the peptide bond. © 2001 IUBMB. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
On the importance of controls in enzyme assays — an odd example
Authors: Sudarshana Subita , Noor Shahid , Punekar Narayan S.
Published: October 2008

An interesting example of interference in the arginase assay is presented. This can be exploited to convey the importance of taking precautions and appropriate controls to the students of enzymology. © 2001 IUBMB. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
Problem‐based learning in biochemistry at Ziauddin Medical University, Karachi, Pakistan
Authors: Jaleel Anila , Rahman M. Ataur , Huda Nighat
Published: October 2008

Since its inception in 1996, Ziauddin Medical University has integrated problem‐based learning (PBL) in its curriculum, a strategy introduced for the first time in Pakistan. This was aimed at overcoming various drawbacks in the traditional methods of teaching such as irrelevant subject matter and lack of integration between disciplines. The main features of new curricula and a system‐integrated course are outlined. A problem is quoted from the same course and its methodology is discussed. Assessment of the program through a questionnaire given to students, showed they perceived that the PBL approach adopted consistently across the curriculum contributed to the development of their information management, critical reasoning, communication and team‐ linked skills. However, the challenges are information access, the role of tutor, and coping with the ambiguity of knowledge and reasoning. 2001 IUBMB. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
Using the separation of poster handouts into sections to develop student skills
Authors: Costa Manuel Joao
Published: October 2008

A method is presented that aims at developing the ability of students to handle information, to participate in group discussions, and to accept and give constructive criticism. The method involves synthesizing information in poster handouts and taking part in a student‐centered assessment. The assessment proceeds through an objective scoring strategy that leads to the identification of key points for selecting and integrating information, as it should be displayed in poster presentations. A component of the strategy is the separation of these ‘poster panels’ into their main sections. Student̂s participation is enthusiastic. © 2001 IUBMB. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.