bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Haptic Recognition of Static and Dynamic Expressions of Emotion in the Live Face
Authors: Lederman S.J. , Klatzky R.L. , Abramowicz A. , Salsman K. , Kitada R. , Hamilton C.
Published: April 2007

If humans can detect the wealth of tactile and haptic information potentially available in live facial expressions of emotion (FEEs), they should be capable of haptically recognizing the six universal expressions of emotion (anger, disgust, fear, happiness, sadness, and surprise) at levels well above chance. We tested this hypothesis in the experiments reported here. With minimal training, subjects' overall mean accuracy was 51% for static FEEs (Experiment 1) and 74% for dynamic FEEs (Experiment 2). All FEEs except static fear were successfully recognized above the chance level of 16.7%. Complementing these findings, overall confidence and information transmission were higher for dynamic than for corresponding static faces. Our performance measures (accuracy and confidence ratings, plus response latency in Experiment 2 only) confirmed that happiness, sadness, and surprise were all highly recognizable, and anger, disgust, and fear less so.
When Looks Are Everything
Authors: Sloutsky Vladimir M. , Kloos Heidi , Fisher Anna V.
Published: April 2007

The goal of this research was to examine mechanisms underlying early induction—specifically, the relation between induction and categorization. Some researchers argue that even early in development, induction is based on category-membership information, whereas others argue that early induction is based primarily on similarity. Children 4 and 5 years of age participated in two types of tasks: categorization and induction. Both tasks were performed with artificial animal-like categories in which appearance was pitted against category membership. Although the children readily acquired category-membership information and subsequently used this information in categorization tasks, they ignored category membership during the induction task, relying instead on the appearance of items. These results support the idea that early in development, induction is similarity based.
Children's Understanding and Experience of Mixed Emotions
Authors: Larsen Jeff T. , To Yen M. , Fireman Gary
Published: April 2007

Though some models of emotion contend that happiness and sadness are mutually exclusive in experience, recent findings suggest that adults can feel happy and sad at the same time in emotionally complex situations. Other research has shown that children develop a better conceptual understanding of mixed emotions as they grow older, but no research has examined children's actual experience of mixed emotions. To examine developmental differences in the experience of mixed emotions, we showed children ages 5 to 12 scenes from an animated film that culminated with a father and daughter's bittersweet farewell. In subsequent interviews, older children were more likely than younger children to report experiencing mixed emotions. These results suggest that in addition to having a better conceptual understanding of mixed emotions, older children are more likely than younger children to actually experience mixed emotions in emotionally complex situations.
An fMRI study of working memory for schematic facial expressions
Authors: BENEVENTI HARALD , BARNDON ROGER , ERSLAND LARS , HUGDAHL KENNETH
Published: April 2007

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was used to examine neuronal activation in relation to increasing working memory load in an n‐back task, using schematic drawings of facial expressions and scrambled drawings of the same facial features as stimuli. The main objective was to investigate whether working memory for drawings of facial features would yield specific activations compared to memory for scrambled drawings based on the same visual features as those making up the face drawings. fMRI‐BOLD responses were acquired with a 1.5 T Siemens MR scanner while subjects watched the facial drawings alternated with the scrambled drawings, in a block‐design. Subjects had to hold either 1 or 2 items in working memory. We found that the main effect of increasing memory load from one to two items yielded significant activations in a bilaterally distributed cortical network consisting of regions in the occipitotemporal cortex, the inferior parietal lobule, the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, supplementary motor area and the cerebellum. In addition, we found a memory load × drawings interaction in the right inferior frontal gyrus in favor of the facial drawings. These findings show that working memory is specific for facial features which interact with a general cognitive load component to produce significant activations in prefrontal regions of the brain.
Regaining a sense of agency and shared self‐reliance: The experience of advanced disease cancer patients participating in a multidimensional exercise intervention while undergoing chemotherapy – analysis of patient diaries
Authors: MIDTGAARD JULIE , STELTER REINHARD , RØRTH MIKAEL , ADAMSEN LIS
Published: April 2007

Evidence is emerging that exercise can reduce psychological distress in cancer patients undergoing treatment. The present study aimed to (qualitatively) explore the experiences of advanced disease cancer patients participating in a 6‐week, 9‐hours weekly, structured, group‐based multidimensional exercise intervention while undergoing chemotherapy. Unstructured diaries from a purposive sample of three females and two males (28–52 years old) who participated in the program served as the database. Data were analyzed using a phenomenological, narrative method. The analysis yielded three themes: shifting position, self‐surveillance, and negotiated strength. The intervention highlighted situations making it possible for the participants to negate psychological and physical constraints. The concept of structured exercise contains viable psychotherapeutic potentials by allowing the development of alternative bodily and mental realities complying with cancer patients’ demands and abilities to regain autonomy and commitment to discover and adopt a sense of agency and shared self‐reliance.
Impulsivity as a predictor of newly diagnosed depression
Authors: GRANÖ NIKLAS , KELTIKANGAS‐JÄRVINEN LIISA , KOUVONEN ANNE , VIRTANEN MARIANNA , ELOVAINIO MARKO , VAHTERA JUSSI , KIVIMÄKI MIKA
Published: April 2007

Depression is a severe mental disorder, whose onset has been related to environmental, genetic and personality factors. This study examined the association between impulsivity and incidence of depression. Logistic regression models were related to prospective data from two surveys (2‐year time lag) conducted in a large cohort of hospital employees (N= 4,505). Only respondents with no history of depression at baseline were included. Impulsivity was predictive of the onset of depression (OR = 1.95, CI 95%= 1.28−2.97) after adjustment for age, sex and education. This association remained statistically significant after additional adjustment for a variety of baseline characteristics, such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and size of social network. A measure of mental distress (GHQ‐12 responses), which may serve as a proxy measure for undiagnosed depression, was also associated with impulsivity. Impulsivity appears to be a distinct personality factor that may contribute to the onset of depressive illness in adults.
Factors associated with a positive attitude towards change among employees during the early phase of a downsizing process
Authors: SVENSEN ERLING , NESET GUNNAR , ERIKSEN HEGE R.
Published: April 2007

Most research on organizational changes in working life, including downsizing, focuses on the negative attitudes and negative consequences of the change. The aim of this study was to evaluate if the employee's previous learning experience and characteristics of the working environment were associated with positive attitudes towards organizational change. The 467 employees (73.5% males) working in a global oil company in the early phases of a downsizing process were asked to answer a questionnaire with demographic variables, perception of the working environment, and attitude to change (93% response rate). Corporate social responsibility (CSR), involvement and participation, team leadership and team effectiveness were important factors related to positive attitudes towards organizational change. Non‐leaders and older employees were positive to change. We conclude that employees’ perceptions of their psychosocial working environment, in particular the CSR, were highly related to their attitude to organizational change.
Type A behavior and work situation: Associations with burnout and work engagement
Authors: HALLBERG ULRIKA E. , JOHANSSON GUNN , SCHAUFELI WILMAR B.
Published: April 2007

The aim of the present study was to investigate Type A behavior as well as perceived work situation, and associations with burnout and work engagement. The associations in focus were investigated through hierarchical regressions in a sample (N= 329) of Swedish Information Communication Technology consultants. The findings indicated that both work situation and Type A behavior was correlated with work engagement and burnout; however, no interactions between Type A behavior and work situation were elicited. The main conclusion was that the achievement striving aspect of Type A behavior appears as “non‐toxic” and is related only to work engagement. However, the irritability/impatience aspect appears to be responsible for burnout complaints among Type A individuals, possibly through negative effects of the mood itself than through perceived stress at work.
Bad Days Don't End When the School Bell Rings: The Lingering Effects of Negative School Events on Children's Mood, Self‐esteem, and Perceptions of Parent–Child Interaction
Authors: Lehman Barbara J. , Repetti Rena L.
Published: April 2007

Each day for five days, 79 fifth‐grade children reported on events that occurred at school and they and their parents described their interactions with each other each evening. Consistent with previous research, it was found that on days when children reported more academic or peer problems during the day at school, they later described more aversive interactions with their parents. As hypothesized, increases in anxiety and drops in children's state self‐esteem partially mediated this link. However, parents did not report any differences in their interactions with the target child on days when the child experienced problems at school. This study suggests that negative events experienced by children while at school lead to short‐term changes in mood and self‐esteem, which influence their perceptions of subsequent interactions at home with parents.
VOLUNTARY CONTRIBUTIONS TO A PUBLIC GOOD: NON‐NEUTRALITY RESULTS
Authors: Van Long Ngo , Shimomura Koji
Published: April 2007

Abstract.  We show that the well‐known neutrality theorem (that a small redistribution of wealth does not affect the aggregate private provision of a public good) no longer holds if agents take into account the effect of their individual supply of the public good on the relative price of private goods.
STICKY WAGE, EFFICIENCY WAGE AND KEYNESIAN UNEMPLOYMENT
Authors: Fan C. Simon
Published: April 2007

Abstract.  This paper provides a model of involuntary unemployment by combining the insights of the sticky wage theory and the efficiency wage theory. It implies that employed workers tend to supply more effort in response to economic downturns. Thus, a negative shock to an economy has intriguing impacts on the unemployment. The model also shows that a negative demand shock may have a relatively small effect on output since changes in work effort serve to partially mitigate the effects of the shock. Moreover, it yields some implications that complement the existing ‘work sharing’ literature.
AN ANALYSIS OF TRANSBOUNDARY POLLUTION AND THE GAINS FROM TRADE: RECONSIDERATION
Authors: Suga Nobuhito
Published: April 2007

Abstract.  This paper investigates the effects of transboundary pollution on trade and welfare in a two‐country, two‐good, one‐factor model in which pollution is treated as a negative cross‐industry externality. It is shown that trade may improve countries’ natural environment and consequently raises the countries’ welfare if a comparative advantage in a pollution‐producing good is held by a country that greatly surpasses the other in pollution abatement technology. This result has not been obtained from existing models of this type.
SUFFICIENCY OF THE LENS CONDITION FOR FACTOR PRICE EQUALIZATION
Authors: Qi Ling
Published: April 2007

Abstract.  Demiroglu and Yun (1999) and Wong and Yun (2003) gave counterexamples to show that the lens condition is not sufficient for factor price equalization. However, they leave the following two important problems untouched: why the lens condition is not sufficient for factor price equalization in general; and whether counterexamples can be given only in a very special case. This paper extends these papers to a framework without two input vectors being proportional to explain why the lens condition loses sufficiency and gives a lot of counterexamples which include those provided in above papers as special cases.
A Speed Limit Monetary Policy Rule for the Euro Area*
Authors: Stracca Livio
Published: April 2007

The main task of central banks is to set the level of short‐term nominal interest rates in reaction to economic developments, with the aim of achieving their statutory objectives (typically some combination of inflation and output variability). If agents are forward‐looking, central banks can achieve better macroeconomic outcomes by committing to follow a rule‐like behaviour. Against this background, the contribution of this paper is twofold. First, it estimates a small‐scale model of the euro area economy that can be used as a benchmark for the evaluation of different simple policy rules in the euro area economy. Second, it studies the performance of a relatively new type of rule, labelled ‘speed limit’ (SL), where the nominal interest rate reacts to the rate of growth in the output gap. The main conclusion of the study is that an SL policy performs remarkably well.
The Internal Logic of Holy Saturday in the Theology of Hans Urs von Balthasar
Authors: OAKES EDWARD T.
Published: April 2007

Abstract:  While consensus reigns that Balthasar's theology of Christ's descent into hell on Holy Saturday constitutes both the center of his theology and his most significant innovation on the tradition, the question remains open whether that innovation marks a true development on this theologoumenon or a radical departure from it. This article argues for the former alternative by drawing on all those elements in the history of theology, both Catholic and Protestant, that point to an increasing – indeed inevitable – radicalization of this doctrine. Then, using the norms set forth by Cardinal Newman's Essay on Development, it shows how Balthasar's ‘innovations’ meet Newman's criteria for authentic development.
The Beauty of the Ugly: Balthasar, the Crucifixion, Analogy and God
Authors: FIELDS STEPHEN
Published: April 2007

Abstract:  In the first volume of The Glory of the Lord, Hans Urs von Balthasar asks how the crucified Christ can be considered an icon of a beautiful God. Because the crucifixion initially confronts us as morally and aesthetically ugly, no authentic analogy between worldly beauty and the beauty of divine revelation seems to obtain. In arguing to the contrary, Balthasar presents us with an original interpretation of Thomas Aquinas that yields fresh insights into the Christian doctrine of God. By placing the cross at the center of intramundane aesthetics, Balthasar forces us to rethink, not only the meaning of the divine simplicity, but the relation in God among being, beauty and love.
Bidder Gains and Losses of Firms Involved in Many Acquisitions
Authors: Antoniou Antonios , Petmezas Dimitris , Zhao Huainan
Published: April 2007

Abstract:  We examine shareholders' wealth effects (both in the short‐ and the long‐run) of UK frequent bidders acquiring public, private, and/or subsidiary targets with alternative methods of payment between 1987 and 2004. We find that, in the short‐run, bidders break even when acquiring public targets and gain significantly when buying private and subsidiary targets. This result is robust after controlling for relative size, bidder's book‐to‐market ratio, target origin, and industry diversification. Our long‐run evidence, however, reveals that acquirers experience, significant wealth losses regardless of the target type acquired, indicating that markets may initially overreact to the acquisition announcement. As a result, we argue that contrary to Fuller et al. (2002) who suggest that acquiring private and subsidiary firms creates value for bidding firms, a reliable conclusion on bidders' shareholders wealth effects cannot be based solely on a short‐run event study.
Numerical model of fluid pressure solitary wave propagation along the décollement of an accretionary wedge: application to the Nankai wedge
Authors: BOURLANGE S. , HENRY P.
Published: April 2007

Fluid pressure variations in time are thought to influence fault slip. Solitary (self‐similar) pressure waves are one process by which a step pressure increase may be transmitted along a fault zone. Hypothetically, solitary wave propagation could be coupled with silent slip. Here we present a two‐dimensional model of solitary wave propagation along a low‐angle fault, scaled to a case example from Nankai accretionary wedge, and examine model sensitivity to décollement permeability. This model takes into account the effect of leakage out of the fault zone and pore pressure diffusion into the surrounding medium. We show that the propagation of a pore pressure wave along the décollement requires a permeability contrast between the dilated décollement (after the step pressure increase) and the surrounding material higher than 104. Wave velocity spans a wide range, from a few cm year−1 to more than 1 km year−1 for dilated décollement permeabilities of 10−15–10−12 m2. At the lower end of this range, the velocity of the pressure wave is comparable with the rate of accretion and the process of décollement propagation may be considered as a particular case of solitary wave propagation. At the upper end of the permeability range, a hypothetical pressure surge initiated after a subduction earthquake could reach the deformation front in a few tens of years. However, it seems unlikely that solitary pressure waves driven by flow along a décollement could explain silent slip events propagating at several km day−1.
Ultrastructural and immunocytochemical analyses of osteopontin in reactionary and reparative dentine formed after extrusion of upper rat incisors
Authors: Cajazeira Aguiar Marcio , Arana‐Chavez Victor E.
Published: April 2007

Reactionary dentine and reparative dentine are two strategies used by the dentine–pulp complex to respond to injury. The reactionary dentine is secreted by original odontoblasts, while the reparative dentine is formed by odontoblast‐like cells. Osteopontin (OPN) is a non‐collagenous protein usually present in the repair of mineralized tissues. It is likely to be present in newly formed dentine but there are no studies attempting to detect it in reactionary and reparative dentine. The aim of the present study was to examine the ultrastructural characteristics, as well as the presence and distribution of OPN in reactionary and reparative dentine by provoking extrusion of the rat incisor. The right upper incisors of 3‐month‐old male rats were extruded 3 mm and then repositioned into their original sockets. At 3, 7, 10, 15, 20, 30 and 60 days after surgery, the incisors were fixed in glutaraldehyde–formaldehyde and then processed for scanning and transmission electron microscopy and for immunocytochemistry for OPN. After extrusive trauma, the dentine–pulp interface showed the presence of reactionary and reparative dentine, which varied in aspect, thickness and related cells. OPN was not detected in the physiological and reactionary dentine, while it was strongly immunoreactive in the matrix that surrounded the entrapped cells of reparative dentine. In addition, original odontoblasts subjacent to the physiological dentine contained OPN in their Golgi region. The present findings showed that reparative dentine shares some structural characteristics with primary bone, especially in relation to its OPN content. The odontoblast‐like cells resemble osteoblasts rather than odontoblasts.
Applicability of the glomerular size distribution coefficient in assessing human glomerular volume: the Weibel and Gomez method revisited
Authors: Samuel Terry , Hoy Wendy E. , Douglas‐Denton Rebecca , Hughson Michael D. , Bertram John F.
Published: April 2007

Changes in glomerular volume (Vglom) play an important role in the initiation and progression of various glomerulopathies. Estimation of Vglom in the normal kidney provides baseline values for studies of glomerular hypertrophy in disease. The traditional model‐based method of Weibel and Gomez is widely applied to estimate Vglom in clinical biopsy specimens. Assumptions of glomerular size distribution and shape required by this method are potential sources of bias that have not been verified. We evaluated the applicability of the glomerular size distribution coefficient in estimating Vglom in human kidneys. Vglom of 720 non‐sclerotic glomeruli in histologically normal kidneys of 24 males (20–69 years) was estimated by the unbiased disector/Cavalieri approach. Accurate glomerular diameters were calculated from Cavalieri estimates of Vglom assuming glomerular sphericity. The coefficients of variation (CV) of glomerular diameters were compared with the corresponding values of the size distribution coefficient predicted by the Weibel and Gomez method. Mean (SD) glomerular diameter was 201 (28) mm (range 110–276 mm). The CV of glomerular diameter within each kidney ranged from 4.9 to 14.6%. Corresponding glomerular size distribution coefficients predicted by the formula of Weibel and Gomez ranged from 1.00 to just 1.03. The value of the size distribution coefficient required by the Weibel and Gomez technique when estimating Vglom in normal human kidneys is remarkably constant. This is despite large variations in Vglom. Future studies should examine the extent of bias introduced by the glomerular shape assumptions of this method.
Prevalence of violence and its relation to caregivers’ demographics and emotional reactions – an explorative study of caregivers working in group homes for persons with learning disabilities
Authors: Lundström Mats , Saveman Britt‐Inger , Eisemann Martin , Åström Sture
Published: April 2007

The aim of the study was to investigate the prevalence of violence directed towards caregivers working in group homes for persons with learning disabilities, and to examine the relation between violent incidents and caregivers’ demographics such as gender, age, years in service, years at the present workplace and education, as well as emotional reactions to violence expressed by the caregivers. A questionnaire was distributed to all caregivers, i.e. Registered Nurses, assistant nurses and nurse's aides, working in group homes for persons with learning disabilities. The results showed that 31% of the caregivers (n = 120) had been exposed to violence during the preceding year with physical violence being the most common type of violence. All categories of caregivers were exposed to violence and emotional reactions were common. Weak relations were found between reported exposure to violence and various demographics among caregivers, such as age and education. Daytime work was the only independent factor in a regression model predicting violence towards the caregivers. Feelings of powerlessness, insufficiency and anger were the most frequently reported emotional reactions elicited by violent situations.
Gender differences in predictors of survival in elderly nursing‐home residents: a 3‐year follow up
Authors: Sund‐Levander Märtha , Grodzinsky Ewa , Wahren Lis Karin
Published: April 2007

This study focus on predicting factors of survival possible to modify by nursing care, and the incidence and mortality rate of nursing‐home‐acquired pneumonia, allocated to 1, 2 and 3 years of follow ups. The residents consisted of 156 women and 78 men living in special housing for the elderly. Data on chronic disease and medication were obtained at baseline, and activities of daily living (ADL) status, nutritional status and body temperature were assessed. The incidence of pneumonia was noted prospectively for 1 year and retrospectively for the following 2 years. Predictive factors for survival were explored by Cox hazard regression analysis. The results showed that age, functional and cognitive impairment were predictors of mortality irrespective of gender, while poor nutritional status in women and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, heart disease and medication with sedatives in men were gender‐specific predictors. ADL correlated positively with dementia and negatively with S‐albumin irrespective of gender, while malnutrition correlated positively with ADL in women and positively with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in men. To promote the quality of daily living in elderly individuals, it is of importance to improve the capabilities in daily functions and nutritional status, especially in women with functional impairment, and to prevent anxiety particularly in men. The findings also clarify that pneumonia is as common as cerebral vascular insult and heart failure as cause of death in this population.
Parents’ postnatal sense of security (PPSS): development of the PPSS instrument
Authors: Persson Eva K. , Fridlund Bengt , Dykes Anna‐Karin
Published: April 2007

Background:  There is a need to develop an instrument that measures both the parents’ experiences and sense of security during the first postnatal week. No instrument measuring positive dimensions which can be influenced and supported by the postnatal health care has been developed.

Objective:  The aim of the study was to develop a specific instrument to assess both mothers’ and fathers’ postnatal sense of security concerning the first postnatal week.

Design:  The study has a methodological and developmental design and was carried out in four steps: construction of the items, face validity, data collection and data analysis.

Settings and participants:  One hundred and thirteen mothers who had given birth in hospitals in southern Sweden and 99 fathers comprised the study participants.

Data analysis:  Statistical analysis, testing for construct validity with explorative factor analysis, internal consistency reliability and comparative validity was carried out.

Results:  The parents’ postnatal sense of security (PPSS) instrument, mother's version, was reduced from 37 to 18 items (explained variance 66.8%, Cronbach's coefficient alpha 0.88) comprising the following dimensions: a sense of the midwives’/nurses’ empowering behaviour, a sense of general well‐being, a sense of affinity within the family and a sense that breast feeding was manageable. The father's version was reduced from 36 to 13 items (explained variance 69%, Cronbach's coefficient alpha 0.77), and comprised the following dimensions: a sense of the midwives’/nurses’ empowering behaviour, a sense of the mother's general well‐being including breast feeding, a sense of general well‐being and a sense of affinity within the family.

Conclusions:  The PPSS instrument is valid and reliable and the only specific instrument measuring postnatal sense of security that is useful for both parents. The instrument needs to be further evaluated.
End‐of‐life care in intensive care units – family routines and environmental factors
Authors: Fridh Isabell , Forsberg Anna , Bergbom Ingegerd
Published: April 2007

The purpose of this study was to describe family care routines and to explore environmental factors when patients die in Swedish intensive care units (ICUs). The main research questions were: what are the physical environmental circumstances and facilities when caring for patients in end‐of‐life and are there any routines or guidelines when caring for dying patients and their families? A questionnaire was sent to 79 eligible Swedish ICUs in December 2003, addressed to the unit managers. The response rate was 94% (n = 74 units). The findings show that, despite recommendations highlighting the importance of privacy for dying ICU patients and their families, only 11% of the respondents stated that patients never died in shared rooms in their ICU. If a patient dies in a shared room, nurses strive to ensure a dignified good‐bye by moving the body to an empty room or to one specially designated for this purpose. The majority (76%) of the units had waiting rooms within the ICU. The study also revealed that there is a need for improvements in the follow‐up routines for bereaved families. Many units reported (51%) that they often or almost always offer a follow‐up visit, although in most cases the bereaved family had to initiate the follow‐up by contacting the ICU. Guidelines in the area of end‐of‐life care were used by 25% of the ICUs. Further research is necessary to acquire a deeper knowledge of the circumstances under which patients die in ICUs and what impact the ICU environment has on bereaved families.
DEco‐TILLING: an inexpensive method for single nucleotide polymorphism discovery that reduces ascertainment bias
Authors: GARVIN M. R. , GHARRETT A. J.
Published: April 2007

Genetic markers that measure DNA variation are important for population genetics research, resource management and other applications. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) are becoming a popular marker because they are abundant and because rapid and efficient assays can be developed to detect them. However, with the exception of a few organisms, most species have little DNA sequence information available and relatively few SNPs have been developed for species that lack sequence data. Methods to find SNPs can be expensive and incorporate substantial ascertainment bias, which may result in failure to discover SNPs that are useful or efficient for addressing specific questions. We have developed a system to detect SNPs that we call DEco‐TILLING, which is derived from Eco‐TILLING (targeting induced local lesions in genomes). The DEco‐TILLING method facilitates the development of useful genotyping assays rapidly and inexpensively and can reduce ascertainment bias.
Microsatellites from the vairone Leuciscus souffia (Pisces: Cyprinidae) and their application to closely related species
Authors: MUENZEL FRAUKE M. , SANETRA MATTHIAS , SALZBURGER WALTER , MEYER AXEL
Published: April 2007

Eleven microsatellites were isolated from the vairone Leuciscus souffia (Risso 1826), an endangered fish that inhabits river systems in and around the Alps in Europe. The level of genetic diversity was assessed in 29 individuals of the subspecies L. s. souffia, and their variability was further estimated in seven individuals of a different subspecies, L. s. muticellus. Eight of these microsatellite loci were also applied to seven closely related cyprinid species. Availability of the reported microsatellite loci will facilitate the investigation of population genetic structure of these species with applications for the development of conservation strategies and phylogeographical approaches.
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite markers in the sacred lotus (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.)
Authors: PAN LEI , QUAN ZHIWU , LI SHUANGMEI , LIU HONGGAO , HUANG XINFANG , KE WEIDONG , DING YI
Published: April 2007

The sacred lotus (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.) is an aquatic plant of economic and ornamental importance in China. From an (AG)n‐enriched genomic library, 24 microsatellites were isolated and identified by using the (fast isolation by the AFLP of sequences containing repeats) FIASCO protocol. Eleven loci showed polymorphism with two to six alleles per locus. These markers yielded 42 alleles in a survey of 32 accessions of the sacred lotus. Eleven effective primer pairs of simple sequence repeats were designed and will be used as genetic markers to evaluate the fine‐scale population structure of the sacred lotus in the future.
Development and characterization of novel microsatellite markers for the common earthworm (Lumbricus terrestris L.)
Authors: VELAVAN T. P. , SCHULENBURG HINRICH , MICHIELS NICO K.
Published: April 2007

We developed and characterized 10 highly polymorphic microsatellite loci from an SSR‐enriched genomic DNA library of the common earthworm (Lumbricus terrestris L). Characterization of these loci using 32 individuals revealed high levels of genetic diversity, five to 18 alleles per locus and a high observed and expected heterozygosity. These loci will be used for paternity analysis and population genetic studies of the co‐evolution between L. terrestris and its parasites.
formatomatic: a program for converting diploid allelic data between common formats for population genetic analysis
Authors: MANOUKIS NICHOLAS C.
Published: April 2007

There has been a great increase in both the number of population genetic analysis programs and the size of data sets being studied with them. Since the file formats required by the most popular and useful programs are variable, automated reformatting or conversion between them is desirable. formatomatic is an easy to use program that can read allelic data files in genepop, raw (csv) or convert formats and create data files in nine formats: raw (csv), arlequin, genepop, immanc/bayesass+, migrate, newhybrids, msvar, baps and structure. Use of formatomatic should greatly reduce time spent reformatting data sets and avoid unnecessary errors.
On the importance ofg(0) for estimating bird population densities with standard distance‐sampling: implications from a telemetry study and a literature review
Authors: BÄCHLER ERICH , LIECHTI FELIX
Published: April 2007

Raw count data are often used to estimate bird population densities. However, such data do not consider detection probability. As an alternative, methods that model detection probability such as distance‐sampling have been proposed. However, standard distance‐sampling provides reliable estimates for absolute density only when the underlying assumptions are met. One of the most critical of these assumptions is that animals on a transect line or at an observation point have to be detected with certainty (theg(0) = 1 assumption). We radiotagged nine Orphean WarblersSylvia hortensisand estimated their short‐distance detection probability. Birds were radio‐located in 264 cases in single bushes or trees. Their visual detection probability after a 5‐min search was only 0.58 (sd = ±0.14, range = 0.38–0.80), although the observer knew the bird's location. Furthermore, we carried out a literature review to assess how theg(0) = 1 assumption is handled in practice. None of the 28 standard distance‐sampling papers reviewed contained an estimation ofg(0). In 57% of the papers, theg(0) = 1 assumption was not even mentioned. Nevertheless, none of the authors declared their estimates as being relative. Our empirical data show that theg(0) = 1 assumption would be severely violated for a foliage‐gleaning bird species at a desert stopover site outside the breeding season. The literature review revealed that the testing of theg(0) = 1 assumption is largely ignored in practice. We strongly suggest that more attention should be paid to the testing of this key assumption, because results may not be reliable when it is violated. If it is not possible to test theg(0) = 1 assumption org(0) is less than 1, alternative methods should be used. Another possibility is to estimate detection probability by the means of radiotagged individuals.
Worlds of compliance: Why leading approaches to European Union implementation are only ‘sometimes‐true theories’
Authors: FALKNER GERDA , HARTLAPP MIRIAM , TREIB OLIVER
Published: April 2007

Abstract.  This article summarises the main theoretical findings of a large‐scale qualitative project on the transposition, enforcement and application of six European Union labour law Directives in 15 Member States. Focusing on the transposition stage, its argument starts from a theoretical puzzle: When confronting the empirical results from the 91 cases covered in the article with the various hypotheses derived from the literature, it turns out that all causal conditions suggested by existing theories, and even two of the most prominent hypotheses (on misfit and veto players), have at best rather weak explanatory power. On closer inspection, these qualitative studies show that even their basic rationale does not hold in some groups of countries. As a solution, this article offers a typology of three worlds of compliance, each of which is characterised by an ideal‐typical transposition style: a ‘world of law observance’, a ‘world of domestic politics’ and a ‘world of transposition neglect’. This typology provides the key to understanding when and how individual theoretical propositions are relevant.
Candidate gender quotas: A framework for analysis
Authors: KROOK MONA LENA
Published: April 2007

Abstract. Quotas for women in politics have diffused rapidly around the globe in recent years, with political parties and national legislatures in more than a hundred countries adopting – or debating the adoption of – reserved seats, party quotas or legislative quotas to increase the selection of female candidates to political office. These developments have sparked an explosion of research on candidate gender quotas. However most of this work focuses on single cases and reflects little awareness of developments in other countries around the world. As a result, the findings in one case are often contradicted in other studies, revealing few clear patterns with regard to the origins and outcomes of gender quota policies. To foster a more cumulative research agenda, this article approaches quotas as a global phenomenon and elaborates a framework for analyzing and comparing the actors, motivations and contexts at work in specific quota reforms.
Regional and local environmental correlates of native Iberian fish fauna
Authors: Ferreira M. T. , Sousa L. , Santos J. M. , Reino L. , Oliveira J. , Almeida P. R. , Cortes R. V.
Published: April 2007

Abstract –  Knowledge of fishes’ habitat requirements is an essential tool for species conservation. We examined the habitat requirements of nine native freshwater fish species using 165 undisturbed or minimally disturbed sites from eight river basins in western Iberia (northern and central Portugal). Six environmental descriptors were considered at the regional level, and six descriptors at a local scale. Statistical associations between local assemblage structure and environmental variables were quantified by canonical correspondence analyses. Logistic regression was performed for each species to identify regional and local factors related to its distribution at the sample sites. The results suggested a reasonable degree of specialisation in the use of local variables and dependence on regional variables. Logistic regression models showed a good adjustment (0.75 < AUC < 0.93). Results of habitat modelling using minimally disturbed sites helped to clarify species preferences for specific abiotic drivers.
Preparation and characterization of new challenge stocks of SIVmac32H J5 following rapid serial passage of virus in vivo
Authors: Ferguson D. , Wade‐Evans A. , Elsley W. , Sangster R. , Silvera P. , MacManus S. , Davis G. , Corcoran T. , Berry N. , Brown S. , Jenkins A. , Cowie J. , Sethi M. , Hull R. , Stebbings R. , Lines J. , Norley S. , Stott E.J. , Almond N.
Published: April 2007

Background  A new challenge stock of the simian immunodeficiency virus SIVmacJ5 has been produced following passage in vivo.

Methods  SIVmacJ5 3/92 (J5M), was passaged serially through cynomolgus macaques (Macaca fascicularis) by intravenous inoculation of infected spleen cells isolated and prepared 14 days post‐infection. Two challenge stocks, SIVmacJ5 S61MLN and SIVmacJ5 S62spl, were prepared by culture of lymphoid tissue ex vivo.

Results  These virus stocks appeared better adapted for replication in M. fascicularis as demonstrated by a greater persistence of recoverable live virus from the periphery and increased pathology in lymphoid tissues 20 weeks post‐challenge as detected by immunohistochemistry. Sequence analysis of the envelope gene from these stocks did not identify marked diversification of sequence as a result of this procedure.

Conclusions  These stocks display more robust peripheral persistence and tissue pathology in cynomolgus macaques and should prove valuable analysing recombinant vaccines based upon SIVmacJ5 transgenes.
Ex vivo imaging of basal cell carcinoma using synchrotron phase‐contrast X‐ray microscopy
Authors: Son Sang Wook , Park Sang Yong , Man Park Gyu , Ha Seung Han , Lee Gun Woo , Lee On Seok , Hwu Yeukuang , Kim Ae Ree , Je Jung Ho , Oh Chil Hwan
Published: April 2007

Background/aims: There is a need for development of non‐invasive methods to improve early diagnosis and screening of suspected malignant lesions. Phase‐contrast X‐ray microscopy (PCXM) has potential to reveal the structures inside soft tissues, and fine details can be observed without any staining or contrast‐enhancing cell preparation. We aimed to investigate the possibility that PCXM can be used to explore the microscopic details of basal cell carcinoma (BCC).

Methods: Paraffin blocks of specimens from patients with basal cell carcinoma were cut with 30 μm thickness for PCXM imaging. Experiments were performed at the International Consortium of Phase Contrast Imaging and Radiology (ICPCIR) (7B2) beamline of the Pohang light source in Korea. The PCXM images were achieved by using coherent hard X‐rays from a synchrotron source with no monochromatization.

Results: We could obtain images with clear edge enhancement by PCXM. The images taken with this technique showed clear anatomic details of organelles in normal skin such as epidermis, dermis and skin appendages. Most of cancerous lesions were clearly differentiated from adjacent normal tissues and the images closely corresponded to those obtained with low‐magnification optical microscopy.

Conclusion: In this pilot study, we successfully demonstrated that synchrotron PCXM could be used for radiological imaging of BCC with great anatomic details.
Malignant B‐cell Lymphoma, WHO Classification and the Respective 18F‐fluoro‐deoxy‐glucose Positron Emission Tomography Results
Authors: Hoffmann M. , Raderer M.
Published: April 2007

Malignant lymphomas represent a diverse range of diseases with exceedingly different behaviour. The common clinical denominator, however, is necessary for correct staging and reliable monitoring of therapy. Many reports on the usefulness of 18F‐fluoro‐deoxy‐glucose positron emission tomography (18F‐FDG‐PET) in staging and follow‐up of lymphomas have been published with very promising results. The aim of this review was to highlight the impact of 18F‐FDG‐PET with respect to the distinct lymphoma entities. The possible future role of PET/computed tomography (CT) is tersely mentioned. Reviewing the literature regarding 18F‐FDG‐PET according to the WHO classification of lymphomas found the method to be highly reliable in Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL), and especially useful in therapy monitoring in HL patients. Promising data have also been published on follicular lymphoma in spite of its indolent nature, and for the aggressive diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma 18F‐FDG‐PET should be considered standard in assessment of response. For marginal zone lymphoma, especially its common extranodal variant (mucosa‐associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma) 18F‐FDG‐PET results are varying, and the method cannot be recommended for uncritical widespread use in the clinical practice. For the less common lymphoma entities, only few results could be found, but they were nevertheless promising for mantle cell lymphoma (MCL). More mature data are nevertheless still needed to judge the use of 18F‐FDG‐PET in MCL.
The Role of Imaging in Malignant Lymphoma: A Critical View on PET Scanning in Current Clinical Practice
Authors: Namberger K. , Greil R.
Published: April 2007

Treatment and prognosis of malignant lymphomas depend on accurate staging and evaluation of clinical and histological features. Computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasound are standard conventional imaging procedures for staging and, under certain circumstances, are supplemented by skeletal scintigraphy, biopsy from suspected areas of organ involvement and bone marrow biopsy. The determination of response to therapy, which is still the most important marker of prognosis [J Clin Oncol17 (1999) 1244], is usually performed at the end of therapy. However, this approach is being challenged (i) by the knowledge that the speed of tumour cell kill might be relevant particularly in high‐grade lymphomas, and (ii) by the application of modern immunological treatments with monoclonal antibodies whose efficacy may last substantially longer than the time period they are infused. Nuclear medicine imaging with positron emission tomography (PET) has become an increasingly used imaging method for the evaluation of lymphoma patients and is capable of more sensitive and accurate staging, early prediction of response and prognosis after 2–3 cycles of chemotherapy, and even predicting the relapse probability after the end of treatment [J Nucl Med47 (2006) 1326]. The main advantages of the technique are based on the detection of tumour‐specific metabolic cellular changes. Despite increased sensitivity in many but not all types of lymphoma, PET is not specific for tumour tissue and can be falsely interpreted. Additionally, the therapeutic consequences of the results of radioimaging are poorly defined despite the widespread use of the techniques, raising a number of unsolved problems. This article will review the use of PET and PET/CT in the staging and evaluation of response to therapy in malignant lymphoma and critically assess the pitfalls and advantages of this technique.
A novel tachykinin‐related peptide receptor of Octopus vulgaris– evolutionary aspects of invertebrate tachykinin and tachykinin‐related peptide
Authors: Kanda Atsuhiro , Takuwa‐Kuroda Kyoko , Aoyama Masato , Satake Honoo
Published: April 2007

The tachykinin (TK) and tachykinin‐related peptide (TKRP) family represent one of the largest peptide families in the animal kingdom and exert their actions via a subfamily of structurally related G‐protein‐coupled receptors. In this study, we have identified a novel TKRP receptor from the Octopus heart, oct‐TKRPR. oct‐TKRPR includes domains and motifs typical of G‐protein‐coupled receptors. Xenopus oocytes that expressed oct‐TKRPR, like TK and TKRP receptors, elicited an induction of membrane chloride currents coupled to the inositol phosphate/calcium pathway in response to Octopus TKRPs (oct‐TKRP I–VII) with moderate ligand selectivity. Substance P and Octopus salivary gland‐specific TK, oct‐TK‐I, completely failed to activate oct‐TKRPR, whereas a Substance P analog containing a C‐terminal Arg‐NH2 exhibited equipotent activation of oct‐TKRPs. These functional analyses prove that oct‐TKRPs, but not oct‐TK‐I, serve as endogenous functional ligands through oct‐TKRPR, although both of the family peptides were identified in a single species, and the importance of C‐terminal Arg‐NH2 in the specific recognition of TKRPs by TKRPR is conserved through evolutionary lineages of Octopus. Southern blotting of RT‐PCR products revealed that the oct‐TKRPR mRNA was widely distributed in the central and peripheral nervous systems plus several peripheral tissues. These results suggest multiple physiologic functions of oct‐TKRPs as neuropeptides both in the Octopus central nervous system and in peripheral tissues. This is the first report on functional discrimination between invertebrate TKRPs and salivary gland‐specific TKs.