bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PHENOTYPIC PLASTICITY RECONCILES INCONGRUOUS MOLECULAR AND MORPHOLOGICAL TAXONOMIES: THE GIANT KELP, MACROCYSTIS (LAMINARIALES, PHAEOPHYCEAE), IS A MONOSPECIFIC GENUS1
Authors: Demes Kyle W. , Graham Michael H. , Suskiewicz Thew S.
Published: September 2009

The giant kelp genus Macrocystis C. Agardh (Laminariales, Phaeophyceae) is one of the world’s most ecologically and economically important seaweed taxa, yet its taxonomy remains uncertain. Although the genus currently contains four accepted species based on variable holdfast and blade morphology [M. pyrifera (L.) C. Agardh, M. integrifolia Bory, M. angustifolia Bory, and M. laevis C. H. Hay], numerous recent studies on Macrocystis interfertility, genetic relatedness, and morphological plasticity all suggest that the genus is monospecific. We reviewed this evidence and present an explanation for the extreme phenotypic plasticity that results in morphological variability within Macrocystis, driven by the effects of environmental factors on early development of macroscopic sporophytes. We propose that the genus be collapsed back to a single species, with nomenclatural priority given to M. pyrifera.
GENETIC VARIATION AMONG STRAINS OF PSEUDOPFIESTERIA SHUMWAYAE AND PFIESTERIA PISCICIDA (DINOPHYCEAE)1
Authors: Small Hamish J. , Shields Jeffrey D. , Haas Leonard W. , Vogelbein Wolfgang K. , Moss Jessica , Reece Kimberly S.
Published: September 2009

The putatively toxic dinoflagellates Pseudopfiesteria shumwayae (Glasgow et J. M. Burkh.) Litaker, Steid., P. L. Mason, Shields et P. A. Tester and Pfiesteria piscicida Steid. et J. M. Burkh. have been implicated in massive fish kills and of having negative impacts on human health along the mid‐Atlantic seaboard of the USA. Considerable debate still remains as to the mechanisms responsible for fish mortality (toxicity vs. micropredation) caused by these dinoflagellates. Genetic differences among these cultures have not been adequately investigated and may account for or correlate with phenotypic variability among strains within each species. Genetic variation among strains of Ps. shumwayae and P. piscicida was examined by PCR–RFLP analysis using cultures obtained from the Provasoli‐Guillard National Center for Culture of Marine Phytoplankton (CCMP), as well as those from our own and other colleagues’ collection efforts. Examination of restriction digest banding profiles for 22 strains of Ps. shumwayae revealed the presence of 10 polymorphic restriction endonuclease sites within the first and second internal transcribed spacers (ITS1 and ITS2) and the 5.8S gene of the rDNA complex, and the cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) gene. Three compound genotypes were represented within the 22 Ps. shumwayae strains. Conversely, PCR–RFLP examination of 14 strains of P. piscicida at the same ITS1, 5.8S, and ITS2 regions revealed only one variable restriction endonuclease site, located in the ITS1 region. In addition, a dinoflagellate culture listed as P. piscicida (CCMP 1928) and analyzed as part of this study was identified as closely related to Luciella masanensis P. L. Mason, H. J. Jeong, Litaker, Reece et Steid.
Analyzing Polyvinyl Chloride in Japan With the Waste Input−Output Material Flow Analysis Model
Authors: Nakamura Shinichiro , Nakajima Kenichi , Yoshizawa Yoshie , Matsubae‐Yokoyama Kazuyo , Nagasaka Tetsuya
Published: September 2009

Effective life cycle management of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) calls for the separation of end‐of‐life PVC products at the time of collection not only from other wastes but among different PVC types as well. Information about the flow of PVC products in the economy is important for this purpose. Within the framework of the Japanese input−output (IO) table for the year 2000, with around 400 industry sectors, the flow of PVC is captured in terms of six PVC‐embodying products and in terms of three PVC types, (1) flexible PVC (soft PVC), (2) rigid PVC (hard PVC), and (3) others. The degree of resolution; the consideration of different PVC types, which are seldom performed in the material flow analysis (MFA) literature; and the use of waste input−output material flow analysis (WIO‐MFA) represent distinguishing features of our study. The use of WIO‐MFA methodology enables one to convert a monetary input−output table into a physical interindustry flow table involving an arbitrary number of materials under full consideration of the mass balance. The results indicate that 40% of the PVC produced in Japan is exported (as resins and as products such as passenger motor cars), and the rest is accumulated mostly as capital stock. The largest share of accumulation goes to public construction in the form of plates, pipes, and bars, which are mostly hard‐PVC products.
Antibiotic Prescriptions Are Associated with Increased Patient Satisfaction With Emergency Department Visits for Acute Respiratory Tract Infections
Authors: Stearns Cordelia R. , Gonzales Ralph , Camargo, Jr Carlos A , Maselli Judith , Metlay Joshua P.
Published: October 2009

Objectives:  Health care providers cite patient satisfaction as a common reason for prescribing antibiotics for viral acute upper respiratory infections (URIs), even though quality performance measures emphasize nonantibiotic treatment for these conditions. In a secondary analysis of a cluster‐randomized trial to test a combined patient and physician educational intervention to reduce antibiotic prescribing for URIs, the authors examined whether satisfaction is greater among patients diagnosed with URIs who are prescribed antibiotics in emergency department (ED) settings.

Methods:  This was a follow‐up telephone survey of 959 patients who received care for acute respiratory infections at any of eight Veterans Administration (VA) hospital EDs or eight location‐matched non‐VA hospital EDs around the United States. Patients reported their satisfaction with the amount of time spent in the ED, the explanation of treatment, the provider treatment, and overall satisfaction on a five‐point Likert scale. The primary measure of effect was the association between antibiotic prescription and visit satisfaction, adjusted for patient and visit characteristics.

Results:  Antibiotic treatment was significantly associated with increased overall visit satisfaction in non‐VA EDs (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 1.97, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.23 to 3.17), but not VA EDs (adjusted OR = 1.13, 95% CI = 0.81 to 1.58). Patients managed in non‐VA EDs who received antibiotics were also significantly more likely to be satisfied with the explanation of treatment and the manner in which they were treated by the provider.

Conclusions:  Antibiotic prescriptions are associated with increased overall patient satisfaction in non‐VA, but not VA, ED visits for URIs. Continued efforts to reduce unnecessary prescriptions in these settings must address ways to maintain patient satisfaction and still reduce antibiotic prescriptions.
No evidence for myocardial iron overload and free iron species in multitransfused patients with sickle/β0‐thalassaemia
Authors: Ghoti Hussam , Goitein Orly , Koren Ariel , Levin Carina , Kushnir Tamar , Rachmilewitz Eliezer , Konen Eli
Published: September 2009

Iron overload (IO) in the heart is a life‐threatening complication in transfusion‐dependent patients with thalassaemia major (TM) and to a lesser extent in sickle cell disease (SCD), while no data are available in patients with sickle/β0‐thalassaemia. Iron deposition in the heart, liver and pancreas was assessed using T2* MRI sequences, as well as free iron species assays – non‐transferrin bound iron (NTBI) and labile plasma iron (LPI), in addition to serum ferritin, percentage transferrin saturation and serum hepcidin, in 10 multitransfused patients (>30 yr) with sickle/β0‐thalassaemia. None of the patients had iron deposition in the heart. Three patients had mild, one had moderate, and two had severe liver IO. Two patients had mild iron deposition in the pancreas. In all the patients, serum hepcidin levels were normal – NTBI and LPI were not detected. Possible explanations of these findings are discussed.
Shifting dominance from native C4to non‐native C3grasses: relationships to community diversity
Authors: Miles Erin K. , Knops Johannes M. H.
Published: September 2009

Many field studies have examined how site fertility, soil differences and site history influence the diversity of a plant community. However, only a few studies have examined how the identity of the dominant species influences the diversity in grasslands. Plant species differ widely in phenology, growth form and resource uses; thus, communities dominated by different species are also likely to strongly differ in the environment that they create and in which the subdominant species exist. We examined the correlation between the four most dominant species and community diversity in 2100 plots, located in 21 abandoned agricultural fields in central Minnesota over a 23‐year period. The four most common species were two non‐native C3cool season species,Poa pratensisandAgropyron repens, and two native C4warm season species,Schizachyrium scopariumandAndropogon gerardii. We found that the differences in the dominants explained up to 27% of the community diversity. Thus, the identity of the dominant species can have a strong influence on community diversity and studies examining factors that influence plant community diversity need to incorporate the effect of the dominants. Secondly, we found that the non‐native C3grass dominated communities had lower overall and lower native species richness relative to the native C4grass dominated communities. Therefore, a shift in dominants from C4to C3may lead to a large community diversity decline. We found thatPoa pratensis, the most abundant non‐native C3grass increased in abundance over the 23 years; thus, the negative influence of non‐natives on the community diversity is not decreasing over time and active management is required to restore native grassland plant communities.
A better way to estimate population trends
Authors: Humbert Jean‐Yves , Scott Mills L. , Horne Jon S. , Dennis Brian
Published: September 2009

Estimation of a population trend from a time series of abundance data is an important task in ecology, yet such estimation remains logistically and conceptually challenging in practice. First, the extent to which unequal intervals in the time series, due to missing observations or irregular sampling, compromise trend estimation is not well‐known. Furthermore, the predominant trend estimation method (loglinear regression of abundance data against time) ignores the possibility of process noise, while an alternative method (the ‘diffusion approximation’) ignores observation error in the abundance data. State‐space models that account for both process noise and observation error exist but have been little used. We study an adaptation of the exponential growth state‐space (EGSS) model for use with missing data in the time series, and we compare its trend estimation to the status quo methods. The EGSS model provides superior estimates of trend across wide ranges of time series length and sources of variation. The performance of the EGSS model even with half of the counts in the time series missing implies that trend estimates may be improved by diverting effort away from annual monitoring and towards increasing time series length or improving precision of the abundance estimates for years that data are collected.
Exploring the role of face processing in facial emotion recognition in schizophrenia
Authors: Rocca Paola , Castagna Filomena , Mongini Tullia , Montemagni Cristiana , Rasetti Roberta , Rocca Giuseppe , Bogetto Filippo
Published: September 2009

Objective:

Impairment in emotion perception represents a fundamental feature of schizophrenia with important consequences in social functioning. A fundamental unresolved issue is the relationship between emotion perception and face perception. The aim of the present study was to examine whether facial identity recognition (Identity Discrimination) is a factor predicting facial emotion recognition in the context of the other factors, known as contributing to emotion perception, such as cognitive functions and symptoms.

Methods:

We enrolled 58 stable schizophrenic out-patients and 47 healthy subjects. Facial identity recognition and emotion perception were assessed with the Comprehensive Affect Testing System. Different multiple regression models with backward elimination were performed in order to discover the relation of each significant variable with emotion perception.

Results:

In a regression including the six significant variables (age, positive symptomatology, Identity Discrimination, attentive functions, verbal memory-learning, executive functions) versus emotion processing, only attentive functions (standardisedβ= 0.264,p= 0.038) and Identity Discrimination (standardisedβ= 0.279,p= 0.029) reached a significant level. Two partial regressions were performed including five variables, one excluding attentive functions and the other excluding Identity Discrimination. When we excluded attentive functions, the only significant variable was Identity Discrimination (standardisedβ= 0.278,p= 0.032). When we excluded Identity Discrimination, both verbal memory-learning (standardisedβ= 0.261,p= 0.042) and executive functions (standardisedβ= 0.253,p= 0.048) were significant.

Conclusions:

Our results emphasised the role of face perception and attentional abilities on affect perception in schizophrenia. We additionally found a role of verbal memory-learning and executive functions on emotion perception. The relationship between those above-mentioned variables and emotion processing could have implications for cognitive rehabilitation.
Exposure to secondhand tobacco smoke and child behaviour – results from a cross‐sectional study among preschool children in Bavaria
Authors: Twardella D , Bolte G , Fromme H , Wildner M , Von Kries R ,   the GME Study Group
Published: September 2009

Aim:  To evaluate the association of postnatal exposure to secondhand tobacco smoke on childhood behavioural problems after taking maternal smoking during pregnancy into account.

Methods:  In a cross‐sectional survey of preschool children in Bavaria, exposure to secondhand tobacco smoke in the child’s home was assessed via a parent questionnaire. The Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) was applied to assess child’s behaviour. The association with secondhand tobacco smoke exposure was assessed for ‘probable’ outcomes of the problem subscales and of prosocial behaviour.

Results:  Among 5494 children (48% female), the SDQ indicated behavioural problems in up to 11%. After adjustment for socioeconomic factors, low birth weight and maternal smoking before and during pregnancy, a dose‐response relationship with exposure to secondhand tobacco smoke was observed regarding hyperactivity/inattention (odds ratio compared to ‘none’ was 1.35 for ‘low/medium’ and 2.39 for ‘high’ exposure, 95% confidence intervals 1.02–1.78 and 1.62–3.53, respectively) as well as for conduct problems (OR 1.68 (1.37–2.06) and 1.93 (1.39–2.68)).

Conclusion:  Secondhand tobacco smoke exposure at home appears to be associated with an increased risk of behavioural problems among preschool children. Prevention of behavioural problems may be a further reason to target secondhand tobacco smoke exposure in children.
Vinylsiloxanether: A New Impression Material. Clinical Study of Implant Impressions with Vinylsiloxanether versus Polyether Materials
Authors: Enkling Norbert , Bayer Stefan , Jöhren Peter , Mericske‐Stern Regina
Published: September 2009

Aim: The performance of three elastomeric materials for the open monophase implant impressions technique was tested under the following clinical conditions: polyether (IM) and vinylsiloxanether without (ID) and with additional simultaneous splinting of the implant impression copings with a higher shore hardness A‐silicone (IDF).

Materials and Methods: The three test groups, IM, ID, and IDF, were randomly allocated 10 test subjects with three to five implants each. The impressions were analyzed regarding the subjective clinical assessments with 11‐point rating scales by the dentist, the patient, and the dental technician, as well as to the comparison of these assessments with the objectified clinical fit of the manufactured crowns based on standard clinical evaluation criteria. The three groups were statistically analyzed on the basis of the hypothesis of non‐inferiority of ID versus IM and IDF versus IM (alpha < 0.05).

Results: The results of the study showed the objective clinical fit of the dental prostheses made using ID being comparable to the results obtained with IM. Compared with ID and IM, the precision of fit attained with IDF was reduced, although the subjective dentist assessments of IDF were in parts significantly better than those of IM and ID (p = .015). A statistically significant superiority of ID in comparison with IM could be determined with regard to the subjective ratings of the taste by the test subject (p < .01), of the handling (p < .001) and of the precision details of impression (p = .012) by the dentist, and of removing the plaster model from the mold by the dental technician (p = .017).

Conclusions: The overall results of the vinylsiloxanether material in terms of the patients', dentists', and dental technicians' assessments proved to be equivalent or superior to those of the polyether material. The IDF technique cannot be recommended for this application.
Apoptosis and autophagy: Targeting autophagy signalling in cancer cells –‘trick or treats’?
Authors: Corcelle Elisabeth A. , Puustinen Pietri , Jäättelä Marja
Published: September 2009

Macroautophagy (hereafter referred to as autophagy) is a tightly regulated lysosome‐dependent catabolic pathway. During this process, cytosolic constituents are sequestered into autophagosomes, which subsequently fuse with lysosomes to become autolysosomes, where their contents are degraded. Autophagy contributes to the maintenance of the cellular energy homeostasis, to the clearance of damaged organelles and to adaptation to environmental stresses. Accordingly, autophagy defects have been linked to a wide range of human pathologies, including cancer. The recent discovery of several evolutionarily conserved genes involved in autophagosome formation has greatly stimulated the autophagy research, and the complex signalling networks regulating mammalian autophagy have begun to emerge. Here, we draw the current picture of signalling pathways connecting mitogenic and stress‐induced signals to the initiation and maturation of autophagosomes and discuss the possibilities of their targeting as therapeutic adjuvants in anticancer therapy.
Original Research—Erectile Dysfunction: Evaluation of Microalbuminuria in Patients with Erectile Dysfunction
Authors: Barassi Alessandra , Pezzilli Raffaele , Morselli-Labate Antonio Maria , Porreca Wanda , Piediferro Guido , Ciociola Francesco , Colpi Giovanni , D’Eril GianVico Melzi
Published: September 2009

Introduction

The recent sophisticated diagnostic procedures aimed at identifying the exact cause of erectile dysfunction (ED) are often complicated in clinical application, invasive, or highly expensive. Microalbuminuria, a test easy to perform and of low cost, is a marker of extensive endothelial dysfunction, and it has been suggested to be linked to ED.

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate the eventual role of microalbuminuria in differentiating patients with arteriogenic and non arteriogenic ED.

Methods

The diagnosis of ED was based on the International Index of Erectile Function 5-questionnaire, and patients were classified as arteriogenic (N=29) and non-arteriogenic (N=49) in relation to the results of echo-color-doppler examination of cavernosal arteries in basal conditions and after intracavernous injection of 10 µg prostaglandin E1.

Main Outcome Measures

The microalbuminuria of 78 males without the most common atheriosclerotic risks and with ED was measured.

Results

Microalbuminuria, defined as urinary albumin/creatinine ratio, was not significantly (P > 0.05) different between patients of the two groups.

Conclusions

Our data show that in ED patients the cavernosal arteries damage, as assessed by dynamic echo-color-doppler, may be independent on or precede extensive endothelial dysfunction, and that microalbuminuria cannot be predictive of penile arteriogenic etiology.
Age-Related Morphological Changes in Smooth Muscle and Collagen Content in Human Corpus Cavernosum
Authors: Ferrer Julio Eduardo , Velez Juan Diego , Herrera Ana Milena
Published: September 2009

Introduction

Aging process has been related to erectile dysfunction (ED) possibly due to morphological changes in corpus cavernosum among many other causes.

Aim

To evaluate smooth muscle and collagen content in human corpus cavernosum and to correlate it to age.

Methods

Cadaveric human cavernosal tissue was collected during the period of 1 year. Morphological analysis of a whole corpus cavernosum was performed in tissue sections stained with Masson’s trichromic method to differentiate smooth muscle (red) from collagen (blue) content.

Main Outcome Measures

Analysis was performed with specialized micrographs image analysis software. Pearson’s correlation test was used to establish correlation between corpus cavernosum morphology (smooth muscle and collagen content) and age.

Results

A total sample of 89 tissues from different male cadavers were analyzed. The average age of the sample was 49.2 ± 19.1 years, with a range between 14 and 90 years. There was a statistically significant inverse correlation between age and the percentage of smooth muscle content (P = 0.012), direct correlation between age and percentage of collagen content (P = 0.019), and inverse correlation between age and the ratio of smooth muscle : collagen content (P = 0.007).

Conclusions

Age-related morphological changes in terms of smooth muscle and collagen content are observed in human corpus cavernosum as a possible contributing factor to the development of ED.
The Effects of Oral Administration of D-Modafinil on Male Rat Ejaculatory Behavior
Authors: Marson Lesley , Yu Guozhong , Farber Neal M.
Published: September 2009

Introduction

Premature ejaculation (PE) is one of the most common forms of male sexual dysfunction. Examination of various classes of drugs on ejaculation latency would provide further opportunities for drug development in this field.

Aim

This study was conducted to examine the effects of the d-isomer of modafinil (d-modafinil) on ejaculatory behavior in a rat model.

Methods

Male sexual behavior in the rat was examined after acute oral administration of d-modafinil (10 mg/kg, 30 mg/kg, and 100 mg/kg) in copulation studies with receptive females.

Main Outcome Measures

The latency to ejaculation, post-ejaculatory interval, and the frequency of mounting behavior were measured. Results d-modafinil (30 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg) produced a significant delay in ejaculation. The delay in ejaculation was accompanied by an increase in the number of intromissions without any change in the mount or intromission latency. The possible mechanisms of action of d-modafinil to produce this delay in ejaculation are discussed.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate that acute oral administration of d-modafinil can lengthen the latency to ejaculation in rats without suppressing sexual behavior. The greatest delay in ejaculation was observed in animals with shorter baseline ejaculatory latencies. Investigation into new classes of drugs that modulate ejaculation may provide new therapeutic options for treating PE.
Subcutaneous Testosterone Pellet Implant (Testopel®) Therapy for Men with Testosterone Deficiency Syndrome: A Single-Site Retrospective Safety Analysis
Authors: Cavender Richard K. , Fairall Melissa
Published: September 2009

Introduction

Long-acting subcutaneous testosterone pellets provide sustained and steady testosterone levels for 3 to 6 months. Testopel® subcutaneous crystalline testosterone pellets are U.S.-approved for the treatment of men with testosterone deficiency syndrome. Published experience with testosterone pellets manufactured by Organon has noted relatively high rates of pellet extrusion and infection.

Aim

To report safety and limited efficacy data from our patients treated for testosterone deficiency syndrome with Testopel® subcutaneous testosterone pellets.

Main Outcome Measures

Infection with or without pellet extrusion, as determined by longitudinal follow-up.

Methods

Single-site, retrospective analysis of medical records from December 2003 through April 2008.

Results

A total of 80 men met inclusion and exclusion criteria. In the 292 implant procedures performed, four adverse events were reported including one implantation site infection. No spontaneous pellet extrusions were reported. Total and free testosterone concentrations were significantly higher at follow-up than at baseline for all patients. Eighty-six percent of patients were satisfied with this treatment modality based on symptom improvement or having subsequent implant procedures.

Conclusions

Testosterone replacement with long-acting Testopel pellets had a lower rate of infection (0.3%, 1/292 procedures) as compared with historical data from the Organon testosterone pellet (1.4–6.8%). Additionally, the rate of pellet extrusion was substantially lower (0.3%, 1/292 procedures) as compared with historical data (8.5–12%). None of the patients who complied with post-implant procedure instructions experienced infection or pellet extrusion. Patient satisfaction was high and serum hormone values were improved. The low infection and extrusion rates observed may have been the result of the manufacturing process, which results in small, smooth-surfaced pellets; the absence of foreign material within the pellet packaging; and/or differences in the surgical implantation technique used. Though Testopel pellets have been used in the United States for several decades, more research is needed to document their safety and efficacy.
Emotional Changes in Men Treated With Sildenafil Citrate for Erectile Dysfunction: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Moncada Ignacio , Martínez-Jabaloyas José M. , Rodriguez-Vela Luis , Gutiérrez Pedro R. , Giuliano Francois , Koskimaki Juha , Farmer Ian S , Renedo Virginia Pascual , Schnetzler Gabriel
Published: September 2009

Introduction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) has been associated with several comorbidities and can cause significant loss of quality of life and self-esteem.

Aim

In men with ED, to use the validated Self-Esteem and Relationship (SEAR) questionnaire to evaluate changes in self-esteem associated with sildenafil treatment of ED and to assess changes dependent on concomitant comorbid conditions.

Methods

This was a 14-week, international, randomized, parallel-group, double-blind, flexible-dose (25, 50, or 100 mg), placebo-controlled study of sildenafil in men aged ≥18 years with a clinical diagnosis of ED (score ≤ 21 on the Sexual Health Inventory for Men).

Main Outcome Measures

The primary outcome was the change in the SEAR Self-Esteem subscale score from baseline to the end of treatment. Secondary outcomes were the change in SEAR component scores stratified by ED comorbidity, the change in the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) domain scores and in the intercourse success rate, and the response to the global efficacy assessment and to the global satisfaction assessment.

Results

A total of 841 patients were included in the intent-to-treat efficacy analysis (559 sildenafil, 282 placebo). Patients randomized to sildenafil had significantly greater change scores from baseline to the end of treatment on all components of the SEAR and all domains of the IIEF (P < 0.0001) compared with placebo. This finding was also consistent for all SEAR components when stratified by each ED comorbidity. In the sildenafil group, the improvement in the mean Self-Esteem subscale score correlated with improvements in the mean Erectile Function domain score (r = 0.6338, P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

The physiologic and emotional benefits of sildenafil in the treatment of ED were confirmed, overall and in men with comorbid hypertension, hyperlipidemia, benign prostatic hypertrophy, and/or depression. Using both the IIEF and the SEAR questionnaires provides a more complete assessment of ED.
An Untidy Cover: Invasion of Bracken Fern in the Shifting Cultivation Systems of Southern Yucatán, Mexico
Authors: Schneider Laura C. , Fernando D. Nelun
Published: September 2009

In land change science studies, a cover type is defined by land surface attributes, specifically including the types of vegetation, topography and human structures, which makes it difficult to characterize land cover as discrete classes. One of the challenges in characterizing a land‐cover type is to distinguish variability within the class from actual land‐cover transformation. The spread of plant invasions in tropical systems is affected by seasonal variations and disturbances such as agricultural activities and fires, making it difficult to determine the spread through thematic classifications. In this paper, we estimate the changes in spatial extent and seasonal variation of bracken fern invasion in Southern Yucatán from 1989 to 2005 by using a linear mixture model (LMM), a widely used method in the classification of remotely sensed data. The results show an increase in areas affected by bracken from 40 km2 in 1989 to almost 80 km2 in 2000. Lower estimates of the invasion resulted from data acquired at the end of the dry season (March–May), when bracken mixes with secondary vegetation or is removed by fires. The accuracy of the maps is estimated through the use of sketch maps of farmer's parcels and field data collected from 2000 to 2001. Understanding the spatial distribution and annual variability of bracken fern cover in the region is critical to determining the relation between disturbances such as fire and forest recovery. Using LMM may enhance this understanding by giving a more accurate picture of the extent and distribution of bracken fern invasion.

Abstract in Spanish is available at http://www.blackwell‐synergy.com/loi/btp
Spatial Variation in the Strength of a Trophic Cascade InvolvingRuellia nudiflora(Acanthaceae), an Insect Seed Predator and Associated Parasitoid Fauna in Mexico
Authors: Abdala‐Roberts Luis , Parra‐Tabla Víctor , Salinas‐Peba Luis , Díaz‐Castelazo Cecilia , Delfín‐González Hugo
Published: September 2009

Spatial variation in the strength of herbivore top‐down control represents an important source of variation in plant fitness measures and community structure and function. By measuring seed predator (larvae of a Noctuid moth) and parasitoid impacts onRuellia nudifloraacross a broad spatial scale in Yucatan (Mexico), this study addressed the following: (1) to what extent does seed predator and parasitoid attack intensity associated withR. nudifloravary spatially? (2) Does parasitoid attack result in a positive indirect effect on the plant, and does the intensity of this effect vary spatially? During the peak of fruit production (late June–early July) of 2005, we collected fruits from 21R. nudiflorapopulations and grouped them into four regions: center, east, north and south. For each fruit we recorded: observed seed number, number of seeds eaten, seed predator presence, parasitoid presence and number of seeds ‘saved’ by parasitoids. Seed predators attackedca30 percent of fruits/plant on average, while parasitoids were found in 24 percent of seed predator‐attacked fruits. Results indicated spatial variation in seed predator and parasitoid attack levels; interestingly, a contrasting spatial gradient of attack intensity was observed: populations/regions with greatest parasitoid attack levels usually had the lowest seed predator attack levels and vice versa, suggesting top‐down control of parasitoids on seed predators. We observed a weak overall indirect impact of parasitoids onR. nudiflora(4% seeds ‘saved’ on average), which nonetheless varied strongly across populations (e.g., close to 14% seeds saved at one population). Findings indicate a geographical structuring of interaction strengths across populations, as well as spatial variation in the strength of parasitoid cascading effects on plant reproduction.
Flying Foxes Prefer to Forage in Farmland in a Tropical Dry Forest Landscape Mosaic in Fiji
Authors: Luskin Matthew Scott
Published: September 2009

To test flying fox adaptations to a habitat mosaic with extreme deforestation, the abundance, habitat choice and feeding behavior of the Pacific flying fox, Pteropus tonganus, were investigated across 16 islands of the Yasawa archipelago, Fiji. The habitat mosaic is formed by 4.3 percent tropical dry forest and 3.3 percent farmland, leaving exotic grasslands and stands of Leucaena leucocephala to overrun the vast majority of land. Pteropus tonganus abundance was high (5757 bats) despite deforestation and hunting. Roosting sites were restricted to native forest fragments. Grasslands and stands of L. leucocephala were completely void of bats at all times. The mean foraging density in farmland was four times higher than in forests and foraging competition was routinely observed in farmland but was extremely rare in forests. The author suggests that during the study, extensive foraging in farmland was supporting the high P. tonganus population. Additionally, the preferential foraging in farmland was responsible for the low foraging densities within forests and dramatically less intraspecies competition for forest resources. Further research is needed on seed dispersal within forests and to test for seasonal variations in bat abundance and feeding.
Hemodynamic Effects of Albumin Dialysis in Patients With Liver Failure: For Better or For Worse?
Authors: Laleman Wim
Published: September 2009

Liver failure, irrespective of is cause, is frequently associated with multi‐organ dysfunction, including hemodynamic instability, and renal and cerebral insufficiency. As a result of the combined impact of these complications, liver failure carries an exceptionally high risk of mortality. A central role in the etiopathogenesis of different end‐organ manifestations, as well as in the aggravation of the underlying liver failure, has been attributed to the hyperdynamic (hypotensive) state, which is characterized by a reduced systemic vascular resistance and mean arterial pressure, as well as an increased cardiac index, heart rate, and total plasma volume. Since the accumulation of toxins due to the decreased detoxification capacity by the failing liver is considered vital herein, the emergence of extracorporeal liver support has provided a rational basis for the potential reversal of these phenomena. The present article critically reviews data with regard to the hemodynamic effects of artificial liver support in the context of liver failure. Although these are scarce for acute liver failure, several uncontrolled series and small randomized trials have clearly documented that artificial liver support is able to improve both portal hypertension and the associated systemic circulatory dysfunction in patients with acute‐on‐chronic liver failure. The molecular basis for these effects have been related to temporary changes and/or elimination in endogenous vasoactive substances, improved albumin binding capacity, or restoration of oxidative stress‐mediated damage to albumin.
Early Molecular Adsorbents Recirculating System Treatment of Amanita Mushroom Poisoning
Authors: Kantola Taru , Kantola Teemu , Koivusalo Anna‐Maria , Höckerstedt Krister , Isoniemi Helena
Published: September 2009

Acute poisoning due to ingestion of hepatotoxic Amanita sp. mushrooms can result in a spectrum of symptoms, from mild gastrointestinal discomfort to life‐threatening acute liver failure. With conventional treatment, Amanita phalloides mushroom poisoning carries a substantial risk of mortality and many patients require liver transplantation. The molecular adsorbent recirculating system (MARS) is an artificial liver support system that can partly compensate for the detoxifying function of the liver by removing albumin‐bound and water‐soluble toxins from blood. This treatment has been used in acute liver failure to enable native liver recovery and as a bridging treatment to liver transplantation. The aim of the study is to evaluate the outcome of 10 patients with Amanita mushroom poisoning who were treated with MARS. The study was a retrospectively analyzed case series. Ten adult patients with accidental Amanita poisoning of varying severity were treated in a liver disease specialized intensive care unit from 2001 to 2007. All patients received MARS treatment and standard medical therapy for mushroom poisoning. The demographic, laboratory, and clinical data from each patient were recorded upon admission. The one‐year survival and need for liver transplantation were documented. The median times from mushroom ingestion to first‐aid at a local hospital and to MARS treatment were 18 h (range 14–36 h) and 48 h (range 26–78 h), respectively. All 10 patients survived longer than one year. One patient underwent a successful liver transplantation. No serious adverse side‐effects were observed with the MARS treatment. In conclusion, MARS treatment seems to offer a safe and effective treatment option in Amanita mushroom poisoning.
Increase of Octanoate Concentrations During Extracorporeal Albumin Dialysis Treatments
Authors: Klammt Sebastian , Koball Sebastian , Hickstein Heiko , Gloger Martin , Henschel Joerg , Mitzner Steffen , Stange Jan , Reisinger Emil C
Published: September 2009

Extracorporeal liver support procedures based on albumin dialysis require the use of pharmaceutical‐grade human serum albumin (HSA). Those preparations contain octanoate, which is added as stabilizer during the production process. For octanoate, a direct involvement in the pathogenesis of liver failure complications as well as an indirect influence by competitive displacement effects at the albumin molecule have been described. During five Single Pass Albumin Dialysis (SPAD) and three Molecular Adsorbent Recirculating System (MARS) treatments the changes of octanoate concentrations in blood and dialysate were investigated. An octanoate increase in patient blood was observed during passage of the filter for both SPAD (585 µmol/L [338–1022 µmol/L]) (median [range]) and MARS (182 µmol/L [71–437 µmol/L]) during the first three hours of treatment. The molar ratio of octanoate/albumin at the blood outflow was significantly higher during SPAD treatments (1.73 [0.86–2.64] vs. 0.54 [0.31–1.1];P = 0.001) during MARS. Changes of octanoate blood levels during SPAD were significantly higher than during MARS (P < 0.001). The shift of octanoate from the dialysate to the patient was persistent during SPAD (median 67.6 µmol/min), whereas during MARS a decrease over time was observed (from 25.5 to 7.5 µmol/min). During albumin dialysis procedures a transfer of octanoate into patient blood occurs. The time‐course and extent are different between both albumin dialysis procedures. Given the positive clinical effects reported mainly for MARS, the clinical impact of albumin dialysis‐associated transfer of octanoate during extracorporeal liver support needs to be evaluated further.
Safety Evaluation for a Cell‐based Immune Support System in an Ex Vivo Rat Model of Gram‐negative Sepsis
Authors: Sauer Martin , Altrichter Jens , Kreutzer Hans‐Jürgen , Schmidt Heidrun , Nöldge‐Schomburg Gabriele , Schmidt Reinhard , Mitzner Steffen R
Published: September 2009

Granulocyte dysfunction is a central component of immunodeficiency in septic patients. Granulocyte transfusions appear to be pathophysiologically useful; however, they cause unwanted side‐effects in the lungs and other organs. This study evaluates the safety of an extracorporeal immune support system with granulocytic cells in a rat model of Gram‐negative sepsis. Three groups of male CD rats received either saline (control group, I), a dose of Escherichia coli O7:K1 lethal to 90% of the animals (LD90) (septic group, II), or an LD90 dose of E. coli that was incubated with the human promyelocytic leukemia cell line (HL‐60) (differentiated into the granulocytic direction) for 20 min prior to infusion (second septic group, III). The animals were observed for seven days. Pre‐treatment with HL‐60 cells resulted in no adverse effects in the group III animals. Significantly lower bacterial counts and endotoxin levels in the plasma were detected after 24 h as compared to group II (P < 0.05). Group III animals had better weight gain and more stable hemodynamics than group II animals (P < 0.01). Seven day survival was 0/8 in group II, 6/8 in group III, and 8/9 in group I (log–rank test: II–III: P < 0.001). The data suggest that extracorporeal use of granulocytes allows the therapeutic use of these cells while avoiding unwanted effects resulting from direct contact to internal organs.
QUALITY ALTERATIONS OF FOUR FRYING FATS DURING LONG‐TERM HEATING (CONVENTIONAL ANALYSIS AND NIRS CALIBRATION)
Authors: SZABÓ ANDRÁS , BÁZÁR GYÖRGY , LOCSMÁNDI LÁSZLÓ , ROMVÁRI RÓBERT
Published: September 2009

Rapeseed oil, sunflower oil, pig (mangalica breed) and goose fat were heated (36 h, 4 h sampling intervals) at seven temperatures (140, 150, 160, 165, 170, 175 and 180C; n = 256) to follow quality alterations. Acid value (AV) increased permanently, while the increase of peroxide value (PV) was followed by a drop. Carbonyl number tended to increase, while p‐anisidine value (pAV) showed two‐peaked alterations. Total polar material (TPM) and dimeric and polymeric triacylglycerol content of oils increased up to over 60 and 25%, while by animal fats, these reached 45 and 19%, respectively.

Near‐infrared spectroscopy (0.1 mm layer, transflectance mode, 800–2,400 nm wavelength, second derivative, modified partial least squares regression) was used for quantitative calibrations. Estimation accuracy of sampling event, heat‐sum (heating hours × temperature) exceeded R2 = 0.94, with over 0.9 cross‐validation values, analyzing fats separately. Calibrations for AV, PV, pAV and TPM reached practical application levels.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The present approach aimed to follow‐up a heating regime frequently occurring in the culinary routine, in terms of heating temperature and duration. Four frying fats were used and conventional fat quality indices (acid value, peroxide value, carbonyl number, p‐anisidine value, total polar material, dimeric and polymeric triacylglycerols) were determined. Near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) analysis was used to develop quantitative calibrations for the quality indices, and reached practical application levels for acid and peroxide values, p‐anisidine value and total polar material content. The spectra‐based estimation of the extent of use, i.e., the duration and the temperature, and as expressed together, the heat‐sum was predicted excellently. NIRS analysis details were set to be simple, i.e., no sample preparation, room temperature, easy sample application and sample‐cup cleaning. Thus, a rapid measurement methodology is presented for the accurate prediction and evaluation of frying fat deterioration, without toxic substances.
Blending History with Geographic Information System Technology: Using USS Arizona GIS Data to Engage Students in Technology and History of the Pearl Harbor Attack
Authors: Gebelein Jennifer
Published: September 2009

As we rely more and more heavily on technology in our teaching methods, utilizing Geographic Information Systems (GIS) has become increasingly commonplace for instructing students how to interact successfully with scientific data and data analysis tools. With students’ increasing fascination with technology such as GIS, there is a unique opportunity to incorporate spatial learning techniques with more qualitative subjects such as history. The applied history techniques described in this study represent a creative methodology that can be used at several teaching and learning levels. In this study, I review a recently completed GIS dataset of the USS Arizona completed by a dual effort of the Park Service and Northrop‐Grumman Mission Systems. This dataset is used in a successful case‐study approach to integrating historical simulation techniques of the Pearl Harbor Incident with learning to analyze spatial data in a GIS environment.
A Calibrated, High‐Resolution GOES Satellite Solar Insolation Product for a Climatology of Florida Evapotranspiration1
Authors: Paech Simon J. , Mecikalski John R. , Sumner David M. , Pathak Chandra S. , Wu Quinlong , Islam Shafiqul , Sangoyomi Taiye
Published: September 2009

Paech, Simon J., John R. Mecikalski, David M. Sumner, Chandra S. Pathak, Quinlong Wu, Shafiqul Islam, and Taiye Sangoyomi, 2009. A Calibrated, High‐Resolution GOES Satellite Solar Insolation Product for a Climatology of Florida Evapotranspiration. Journal of the American Water Resources Association (JAWRA) 45(6):1328‐1342.

Abstract:  Estimates of incoming solar radiation (insolation) from Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite observations have been produced for the state of Florida over a 10‐year period (1995‐2004). These insolation estimates were developed into well‐calibrated half‐hourly and daily integrated solar insolation fields over the state at 2 km resolution, in addition to a 2‐week running minimum surface albedo product. Model results of the daily integrated insolation were compared with ground‐based pyranometers, and as a result, the entire dataset was calibrated. This calibration was accomplished through a three‐step process: (1) comparison with ground‐based pyranometer measurements on clear (noncloudy) reference days, (2) correcting for a bias related to cloudiness, and (3) deriving a monthly bias correction factor. Precalibration results indicated good model performance, with a station‐averaged model error of 2.2 MJ m−2/day (13%). Calibration reduced errors to 1.7 MJ m−2/day (10%), and also removed temporal‐related, seasonal‐related, and satellite sensor‐related biases. The calibrated insolation dataset will subsequently be used by state of Florida Water Management Districts to produce statewide, 2‐km resolution maps of estimated daily reference and potential evapotranspiration for water management‐related activities.