bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Political Is Personal: Narrating 9/11 and Psychological Well‐Being
Authors: Adler Jonathan M. , Poulin Michael J.
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT
Making meaning out of negative experiences is one of the primary psychological challenges in the wake of adversity. Much of the empirical attention that psychologists have paid to meaning making has focused on personal hardships, but national tragedies similarly pose a challenge to meaning making. In the present study, which is grounded in the theoretical tradition of the narrative study of lives, a nationally representative sample of 395 adults wrote accounts about the 9/11 terrorist attacks approximately 2 months after 9/11. Accounts were coded for 3 narrative themes: closure, redemption, and contamination. Psychological well‐being was significantly related to accounts that were high in closure and national redemption and, among those more directly exposed to the attacks, accounts high in redemptive imagery. Psychological distress was significantly related to accounts that were low in closure and high in themes of personal contamination. Understanding the narrative styles that characterize personal accounts of political events has important ramifications for the study of the socially embedded individual.
What Leads to Romantic Attraction: Similarity, Reciprocity, Security, or Beauty? Evidence From a Speed‐Dating Study
Authors: Luo Shanhong , Zhang Guangjian
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT
Years of attraction research have established several “principles” of attraction with robust evidence. However, a major limitation of previous attraction studies is that they have almost exclusively relied on well‐controlled experiments, which are often criticized for lacking ecological validity. The current research was designed to examine initial attraction in a real‐life setting—speed‐dating. Social Relations Model analyses demonstrated that initial attraction was a function of the actor, the partner, and the unique dyadic relationship between these two. Meta‐analyses showed intriguing sex differences and similarities. Self characteristics better predicted women's attraction than they did for men, whereas partner characteristics predicted men's attraction far better than they did for women. The strongest predictor of attraction for both sexes was partners' physical attractiveness. Finally, there was some support for the reciprocity principle but no evidence for the similarity principle.
The Pathoplastic Relationship Between Interpersonal Problems and Fear of Failure
Authors: Wright Aidan G. C. , Pincus Aaron L. , Conroy David E. , Elliot Andrew J.
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACTThis study advances the understanding of fear of failure (FF), a dispositional avoidance‐oriented achievement motive, by employing interpersonal classification techniques to groups of individuals who fear failure in order to examine the pathoplastic relations between FF and interpersonal problems. Shame‐based FF is thought to be related to the self‐regulation strategies of appeasement and aggression, and these strategies are hypothesized to be associated with the interpersonal problems of Nonassertiveness and Vindictiveness, respectively. Using 2 independent samples (ns=60 and 38) reporting high FF, interpersonal profiles were examined for the groups in their entirety and for cluster solutions within the larger samples. Results demonstrated that individuals high in FF exhibited 1 of 2 prototypical interpersonal profiles associated with Domineering/Vindictive or Nonassertive/Exploitable problems that correspond with the hypothesized aggression and appeasement regulation strategies. Consistent with the concept of pathoplasticity, these differences were not better accounted for by demographic, affective, motivational, personality, or attachment style characteristics of the samples.
The Influence of Work Personality on Job Satisfaction: Incremental Validity and Mediation Effects
Authors: Heller Daniel , Ferris D. Lance , Brown Douglas , Watson David
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT
Drawing from recent developments regarding the contextual nature of personality (e.g., D. Wood & B. W. Roberts, 2006), we conducted 2 studies (1 cross‐sectional and 1 longitudinal over 1 year) to examine the validity of work personality in predicting job satisfaction and its mediation of the effect of global personality on job satisfaction. Study 1 showed that (a) individuals vary systematically in their personality between roles— they were significantly more conscientious and open to experience and less extraverted at work compared to at home; (b) work personality was a better predictor of job satisfaction than both global personality and home personality; and (c) work personality demonstrated incremental validity above and beyond the other two personality measures. Study 2 further showed that each of the work personality dimensions fully mediated the association between its corresponding global personality trait and job satisfaction. Evidence for the discriminant validity of the findings is also presented.
Age‐related changes in the control of episodic retrieval: an ERP study of recognition memory in children and adults
Authors: Czernochowski Daniela , Mecklinger Axel , Johansson Mikael
Published: May 2009

We examined developmental aspects of the ability to monitor the temporal context of an item’s previous occurrence while event‐related potentials (ERPs) were recorded. In a continuous recognition task, children between 10 and 12 years and young adults watched a stream of pictures repeated with a lag of 10–15 intervening items and indicated recurrences. In a second run, these already familiar pictures were repeated as non‐targets along with new pictures, while subjects were instructed to indicate only recurrences within the run. Young adults were able to maintain high performance levels in both tasks, whereas children had longer response times and committed a large number of false alarms to non‐targets. ERPs in both age groups showed similar parietal old/new effects for target repetitions within runs. In addition, adults’ ERPs showed similar old/new effects at frontal electrodes for repetitions and non‐targets, presumably reflecting assessments of familiarity, whereas for children repeated relative to first presentations were associated with more negative‐going waveforms at anterior frontal recording sites. Together, these results suggest a continuing maturation of the brain networks assessing novelty or familiarity. Recollection as indexed by parietal old/new effects appeared similar between young adults and children, but the development of controlled episodic retrieval, resulting in recollection of non‐target information, appears to continue well into adolescence.
Neuronal changes in psoriasis exacerbation
Authors: El‐Nour H , Santos A , Nordin M , Jonsson P , Svensson M , Nordlind K , Berg M
Published: May 2009

Background The nervous system contributes to inflammatory skin diseases.

Objective The aim of this investigation was to study the neuronal contribution to psoriasis at the remission and exacerbation phases.

Methods We examined the expression of the neuronal markers protein gene product 9.5 (PGP 9.5), growth‐associated protein‐43 (GAP‐43) and substance P, in addition to its receptor (R), neurokinin‐1R (NK‐1R) in psoriatic skin from seven female patients at remission and exacerbation, using immunohistochemistry.

Results The number of epidermal PGP 9.5 immunoreactive nerve fibres in the involved skin during exacerbation was decreased (P < 0.01) compared to involved skin at remission and non‐involved skin at the exacerbation phase. GAP‐43‐positive nerve fibres were decreased (P < 0.05) in the involved skin in contrast to non‐involved skin, during exacerbation. Substance P expression was seen on both immunoreactive nerve fibres and cells with a down‐regulation (P < 0.01) in the number of positive nerve fibres in the involved skin compared to non‐involved skin, at the exacerbation phase. The number of substance P‐positive cells was slightly lower in the involved skin at exacerbation than at remission. The number of NK‐1R immunoreactive cells was increased (P < 0.01) in the involved skin in contrast to non‐involved skin, at the exacerbation phase.

Conclusion Our findings suggest a crosstalk between the nervous system and inflammation during psoriasis exacerbation in the form of an altered expression of nerve fibres, substance P and its NK‐1R.
Dietary deficiency increases presenilin expression, gamma‐secretase activity, and Abeta levels: potentiation by ApoE genotype and alleviation by S‐adenosyl methionine
Authors: Chan Amy , Tchantchou Flaubert , Rogers Eugene J. , Shea Thomas B.
Published: May 2009

Apolipoprotein E4 (ApoE4) is a risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Whether this risk arises from a deficient function of E4 or the lack of protection provided by E2 ir E3 is unclear. Previous studies demonstrate that deprivation of folate and vitamin E, coupled with dietary iron as a pro‐oxidant, for 1 month displayed increased presenilin 1 (PS‐1) expression, gamma‐secretase, and Abeta generation in mice lacking ApoE (ApoE−/− mice). While ApoE−/− mice are a model for ApoE deficiency, they may not reflect the entire range of consequences of E4 expression. We therefore compared herein the impact of the above deficient diet on mice expressing human E2, E3, or E4. As folate deficiency is accompanied by a decrease in the major methyl donor, S‐adenosyl methionine (SAM), additional mice received the deficient diet plus SAM. E2 was more protective than murine ApoE or E3 and E4. Surprisingly, PS‐1 and gamma‐secretase were over‐expressed in E3 to the same extent as in E4 even under a complete diet, and were not alleviated by SAM supplementation. Abeta increased only in E4 mice maintained under the complete diet, and was alleviated by SAM supplementation. These findings suggest dietary compromise can potentiate latent risk factors for AD.
Isomerization of the proline in the M2–M3 linker is not required for activation of the human 5‐HT3A receptor
Authors: Paulsen Isabelle M. , Martin Ian L. , Dunn Susan M. J.
Published: May 2009

Each subunit of the cation‐selective members of the Cys‐loop family of ligand‐gated ion channels contains a conserved proline residue in the extracellular loop between the second and third transmembrane domains. In the mouse homomeric 5‐hydroxytryptamine type 3A (5‐HT3A) receptor, the effects of substitution of this proline by unnatural amino acids led to the suggestion that trans‐cis isomerization of the protein backbone at this position is integral to agonist‐induced channel opening [Nature (2005) vol. 438, pp. 248–252]. We explored the generality of this conclusion using natural amino acid mutagenesis of the homologous human 5‐HT3A receptor. The conserved proline (P303) was substituted by either a histidine or tryprophan and the mutant receptors were expressed in Xenopus oocytes. These mutations did not significantly affect the magnitude of agonist‐mediated currents, compromise channel gating by 5‐HT or inhibition of 5‐HT‐induced currents by either picrotoxin or d‐tubocurarine. The mutations did, however, result in altered dependence on extracellular Ca2+ concentration and a 10‐fold increase in the rate of receptor desensitization. These results demonstrate an important role for P303 in 5‐HT3A receptor function but indicate that trans‐cis isomerization at this proline is unlikely to be a general mechanism underlying the gating process.
Use of the internet for health purposes: trends in Norway 2000–2010
Authors: Wangberg Silje , Andreassen Hege , Kummervold Per , Wynn Rolf , Sørensen Tove
Published: May 2009

Aim:  The aim of this work is to study the 10 year trends in the use and projected use of internet for health purposes in Norway. This includes more detailed analyses of changes in latter years, current uses, valuation as source of health information, reported effects and projected developments.

Method:  Surveys on the use of the internet for health purposes have been conducted in Norway in the years 2000, 2001, 2003, 2005 and 2007. Representative samples were drawn from the population, and interviews were conducted by poll agencies using telephone (CATI).

Results:  Internet use for health purposes in the Norwegian population has increased dramatically over the last 7 years from 19% in 2000 to 67% in 2007. If this trend continues, we estimate that 84% of the Norwegian population will be using internet for health purposes by the year 2010. Reading about health or illness is the most common activity, and the rated importance of the internet as a source of health information is increasing. The internet is also used more for ordering medicines and other health‐related products. Forty‐four per cent of those having used the internet for health purposes reported having searched for lifestyle‐related information, and 40% reported having felt inspired to change health behaviour.

Conclusions:  The internet is an important source of health information, which is likely to increase in importance in the years to come. This study further underlines the potential of internet use for health promoting purposes, as well as the potential for exacerbating social disparities in health.
Self‐assessment of nursing competencies – validation of the Finnish NCS instrument with Italian nurses
Authors: Dellai Marisa , Mortari Luigina , Meretoja Riitta
Published: May 2009

Aim:  Research focusing on competence assessment of practicing nurses has recently increased. However, few generic instruments are available for this purpose. This study reports cultural validation of the Italian version of the Nurse Competence Scale (NCS, English version) by exploring nurses’ perceptions of the use of the NCS instrument.

Methods:  Content validity of the Italian version of the NCS was assessed during the translation and back‐translation process. Thereafter, cultural validity was further explored by conducting self‐assessments and semi‐structured interviews with 10 nurses, who practise medicine, cardiology and intensive care wards. First, the Italian version of the 73‐item NCS was used to assess nurses’ competence levels and the frequency of using competencies in practice settings. Second, semi‐structured interviews were conducted to evaluate nurses’ perceptions of the use of the instrument.

Results:  The advanced beginners obtained a high overall competence level and the experienced nurses a very high overall competence level. These results are similar with the earlier findings of nurse competence levels with the NCS. The overall frequency of using NCS competencies in clinical practice indicated good cultural validity of the instrument. The instrument was considered easy to understand and to complete, and the Italian version was considered to express the domain of nursing. However, a need to make semantic specifications for some items for the Italian version was pointed out.

Conclusions:  This explorative pilot study reports a first phase cultural validation process. Carefully performed translation alone does not ensure validity of translated instrument. Interview method is recommended to deepen the understanding of concept in question and the content validity of the instrument. The results support previous research findings of the use of the NCS instrument and show that it could be very useful in competence assessment for Italian nurses.
American Kestrel reproduction: evidence for the selection hypothesis and the role of dispersal
Authors: STEENHOF KAREN , HEATH JULIE A.
Published: May 2009

Many hypotheses attempt to explain why younger, less experienced birds have a relatively low reproductive output. We evaluated reproductive patterns of marked American Kestrels Falco sparverius nesting in boxes in southwestern Idaho from 1992 to 2006 to test predictions of these hypotheses. Results were consistent with the selection (differential mortality) hypothesis and did not support the constraint, restraint or recruitment hypotheses. Most known‐age Kestrels nested in their first year of life, and there was no apparent short‐term or long‐term reproductive advantage to delayed breeding. The number of years that Kestrels nested in study area boxes ranged from 1 to 6 years, with most Kestrels nesting in only 1 year. Reproductive rates were higher for birds with at least 1 year of nesting experience than for birds nesting in boxes for the first time. After 2 years of nesting, reproductive rates levelled off; there was no evidence for additional improvement or for senescence. Differences in reproductive output with experience/age were due to variation among and not within individuals. Individuals that nested in more than 1 year had similar reproductive rates in their first and second years. Poor producers either died or dispersed after 1 year of nesting in study area boxes. Successful females that nested early in the season and successful males that had been produced locally had the highest probability of returning to nest in a subsequent year.
Use of a point‐of‐care urine drug test in a dog to assist in diagnosing barbiturate toxicosis secondary to ingestion of a euthanized carcass
Authors: Campbell Vicki L. , Butler Amy L. , Lunn Katharine F.
Published: May 2009

Objective –To describe a case of barbiturate toxicosis in a dog secondary to ingestion of a previously buried euthanized goat carcass and to discuss the utility of urine drug testing in diagnosing barbiturate toxicosis.

Case Summary –A 6‐year‐old neutered male Border Collie was presented to a university veterinary teaching hospital for evaluation of ataxia and acute collapse. Past pertinent history included Addison's disease that had been managed for 1 year. A companion dog was seen 12 hours earlier chewing on the partially decomposed head of a goat that had been euthanized 47 days previously and buried on the owner's property. The dog was laterally recumbent, unresponsive to stimuli, and hypothermic on physical examination. Initial blood work revealed hyponatremia and hyperkalemia, with a Na/K ratio of 18.5. The dog was volume resuscitated and received an injection of dexamethasone sodium phosphate due to a suspected Addisonian crisis. Despite this treatment, the dog remained laterally recumbent and unresponsive to stimuli. A urine drug screen was performed and was positive for barbiturates. A diagnosis of barbiturate toxicosis secondary to ingestion of a euthanized goat carcass was made. The dog was treated supportively over 12 hours with IV fluids and activated charcoal. The dog was able to walk 11 hours after presentation and was subsequently discharged from the hospital.

New or Unique Information Provided –Urine drug testing is a fast, easy, and point‐of‐care test that may be useful in dogs to assist in the diagnosis of barbiturate intoxication. Proper disposal of euthanized animals is necessary to prevent toxicosis and possible death of companion animals and wildlife.
Right ventricular rupture after lateral thoracotomy for removal of rib‐associated telangiectatic osteosarcoma in a dog
Authors: Barmettler Reto , Spreng David E. , Gorgas Daniela , Scharf Gernot , Posthaus Horst , Sigrist Nadja E.
Published: May 2009

Objective –To describe a case of a focal right ventricular rupture following removal of a rib‐associated telangiectatic osteosarcoma (TOS) in a dog.

Case Summary –A 2‐year‐old spayed female mixed‐breed dog, weighing 20 kg, was presented in compensated hypovolemic shock due to active bleeding into the thoracic cavity. The dog was stabilized with appropriate fluid administration. Subsequent computed tomographic examination revealed a large mineralized mass originating from the body of a rib and displacing the heart. Two days after surgical removal of this mass, focal right ventricular rupture occurred and the dog died. The mass was later identified as a TOS.

New or Unique Information Provided –Although hemothorax secondary to TOS has been described previously, this report describes for the first time, spontaneous focal right ventricular rupture as a rare complication of thoracotomy and rib resection for the removal of a rib‐associated, intrathoracic TOS.
Combined treatment with Denbinobin and Fas ligand has a synergistic cytotoxic effect in human pancreatic adenocarcinoma BxPC‐3 cells
Authors: Yang CR , Guh JH , Teng CM , Chen CC , Chen PH
Published: May 2009

Background and purpose:  Human pancreatic carcinoma is a highly malignant cancer. Previous studies have shown that the decoy receptor 3 (DcR3) for Fas ligand (FasL) plays significant roles in tumour progression and immune suppression. In the present study, we evaluated the anti‐cancer activity of a natural compound, denbinobin (5‐hydroxy‐3,7‐dimethoxy‐1,4‐phenanthraquinone), through decreasing DcR3 levels in human pancreatic adenocarcinoma cell lines.

Experimental approach:  We used immunoprecipitation and ELISA assays to examine DcR3 levels, and used FACS to determine the percentage of cells with a sub‐G1 DNA content.

Key results:  AsPC‐1 and BxPC‐3 human pancreatic cancer cells express high levels of DcR3. Denbinobin concentration‐dependently decreased DcR3 levels in BxPC‐3 cells. MTT and flow cytometry assays indicated that BxPC‐3 was FasL‐resistant because high concentrations (100 ng·mL−1) of soluble FasL did not inhibit cell growth. However, combinations of denbinobin (3 µmol·L−1) with lower concentrations of soluble FasL (10, 30 and 50 ng·mL−1) or membrane‐bound FasL, were synergistic on cell growth inhibition and apoptosis. Exogenous excess DcR3 reversed this synergistic effect. We observed no significant increase in the levels of surface Fas, cleaved forms of caspase‐8, ‐3, ‐9, Bax, Bid, Bcl‐xL, cytochrome c or mitochondrial membrane potentials following denbinobin treatment. However, denbinobin treatment increased the levels of apoptosis‐inducing factor.

Conclusions and implications:  Denbinobin and FasL trigger a synergistic cytotoxic effect in human pancreatic adenocarcinoma cells. Denbinobin mediated a decrease in levels of DcR3, which played a major role in this synergistic effect, and also increased caspase‐independent apoptosis, via apoptosis‐inducing factor.
Protective mechanisms of activated protein C in severe inflammatory disorders
Authors: Neyrinck Arne P , Liu Kathleen D , Howard James P , Matthay Michael A
Published: May 2009

The protein C system is an important natural anticoagulant mechanism mediated by activated protein C (APC) that regulates the activity of factors VIIIa and Va. Besides well‐defined anticoagulant properties, APC also demonstrates anti‐inflammatory, anti‐apoptotic and endothelial barrier‐stabilizing effects that are collectively referred to as the cytoprotective effects of APC. Many of these beneficial effects are mediated through its co‐receptor endothelial protein C receptor, and the protease‐activated receptor 1, although exact mechanisms remain unclear and are likely pleiotropic in nature. Increased insight into the structure–function relationships of APC facilitated design of APC variants that conserve cytoprotective effects and reduce anticoagulant features, thereby attenuating the risk of severe bleeding with APC therapy. Impairment of the protein C system plays an important role in acute lung injury/acute respiratory distress syndrome and severe sepsis. The pathophysiology of both diseases states involves uncontrolled inflammation, enhanced coagulation and compromised fibrinolysis. This leads to microvascular thrombosis and organ injury. Administration of recombinant human APC to correct the dysregulated protein C system reduced mortality in severe sepsis patients (PROWESS trial), which stimulated further research into its mechanisms of action. Several other clinical trials evaluating recombinant human APC have been completed, including studies in children and less severely ill adults with sepsis as well as a study in acute lung injury. On the whole, these studies have not supported the use of APC in these populations and challenge the field of APC research to search for additional answers.

This article is part of a themed issue on Mediators and Receptors in the Resolution of Inflammation. To view this issue visit http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/journal/121548564/issueyear?year=2009
Association of Coloration Mode with Population Declines and Endangerment in Australian Frogs
Authors: FORSMAN ANDERS , HAGMAN MATTIAS
Published: May 2009

Abstract: Successful protection of biodiversity requires increased understanding of the ecological characteristics that predispose some species to endangerment. Theory posits that species with polymorphic or variable coloration should have larger distributions, use more diverse resources, and be less vulnerable to population declines and extinctions, compared with taxa that do not vary in color. We used information from literature on 194 species of Australian frogs to search for associations of coloration mode with ecological variables. In general, species with variable or polymorphic color patterns had larger ranges, used more habitats, were less prone to have a negative population trend, and were estimated as less vulnerable to extinction compared with nonvariable species. An association of variable coloration with lower endangerment was also evident when we controlled statistically for the effects of range size. Nonvariable coloration was not a strong predictor of endangerment, and information on several characteristics is needed to reliably identify and protect species that are prone to decline and may become threatened by extinction in the near future. Analyses based on phylogenetic‐independent contrasts did not support the hypothesis that evolutionary transitions between nonvariable and variable or polymorphic coloration have been accompanied by changes in the ecological variables we examined. Irrefutable demonstration of a role of color pattern variation in amphibian decline and in the dynamics and persistence of populations in general will require a manipulative experimental approach.
Not Knowing, Not Recording, Not Listing: Numerous Unnoticed Mollusk Extinctions
Authors: RÉGNIER CLAIRE , FONTAINE BENOÎT , BOUCHET PHILIPPE
Published: May 2009

Abstract: Mollusks are the group most affected by extinction according to the 2007 International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, despite the group having not been evaluated since 2000 and the quality of information for invertebrates being far lower than for vertebrates. Altogether 302 species and 11 subspecies are listed as extinct on the IUCN Red List. We reevaluated mollusk species listed as extinct through bibliographic research and consultation with experts. We found that the number of known mollusk extinctions is almost double that of the IUCN Red List. Marine habitats seem to have experienced few extinctions, which suggests that marine species may be less extinction prone than terrestrial and freshwater species. Some geographic and ecologic biases appeared. For instance, the majority of extinctions in freshwater occurred in the United States. More than 70% of known mollusk extinctions took place on oceanic islands, and a one‐third of these extinctions may have been caused precipitously by introduction of the predatory snailEuglandina rosea.We suggest that assessment of the conservation status of invertebrate species is neglected in the IUCN Red List and not managed in the same way as for vertebrate species.
Biodiversity Consequences of Genetic Variation in Bark Characteristics within a Foundation Tree Species
Authors: BARBOUR ROBERT C. , FORSTER LYNNE G. , BAKER SUSAN C. , STEANE DOROTHY A. , POTTS BRADLEY M.
Published: May 2009

Abstract:  The developing field of community genetics has the potential to broaden the contribution of genetics to conservation biology by demonstrating that genetic variation within foundation plant species can act to structure associated communities of microorganisms, invertebrates, and vertebrates. We assessed the biodiversity consequences of natural patterns of intraspecific genetic variation within the widely distributed Australian forest tree, Eucalyptus globulus. We assessed genetic variation among geographic races of E. globulus (i.e., provenances, seed zones) in the characteristics of tree‐trunk bark in a 17‐year‐old common garden and the associated response of a dependent macroarthropod community. In total, 180 macroarthropod taxa were identified following a collection from 100 trees of five races. We found substantial genetically based variation within E. globulus in the quantity and type of decorticating bark. In the community of organisms associated with this bark, significant variation existed among trees of different races in composition, and there was a two‐fold difference in species richness (7–14 species) and abundance (22–55 individuals) among races. This community variation was tightly linked with genetically based variation in bark, with 60% of variation in community composition driven by bark characteristics. No detectable correlation was found, however, with neutral molecular markers. These community‐level effects of tree genetics are expected to extend to higher trophic levels because of the extensive use of tree trunks as foraging zones by birds and marsupials. Our results demonstrate the potential biodiversity benefits that may be gained through conservation of intraspecific genetic variation within broadly distributed foundation species. The opportunities for enhancing biodiversity values of forestry and restoration plantings are also highlighted because such planted forests are increasingly becoming the dominant forest type in many areas of the world.
Effects of River Impoundment on Ecosystem Services of Large Tropical Rivers: Embodied Energy and Market Value of Artisanal Fisheries
Authors: HOEINGHAUS DAVID J. , AGOSTINHO ANGELO A. , GOMES LUIZ C. , PELICICE FERNANDO M. , OKADA EDSON K. , LATINI JOÃO D. , KASHIWAQUI ELAINE A. L. , WINEMILLER KIRK O.
Published: May 2009

Abstract:  Applying the ecosystem services concept to conservation initiatives or in managing ecosystem services requires understanding how environmental impacts affect the ecology of key species or functional groups providing the services. We examined effects of river impoundments, one of the leading threats to freshwater biodiversity, on an important ecosystem service provided by large tropical rivers (i.e., artisanal fisheries). The societal and economic importance of this ecosystem service in developing countries may provide leverage to advance conservation agendas where future impoundments are being considered. We assessed impoundment effects on the energetic costs of fisheries production (embodied energy) and commercial market value of the artisanal fishery of the Paraná River, Brazil, before and after formation of Itaipu Reservoir. High‐value migratory species that dominated the fishery before the impoundment was built constituted a minor component of the contemporary fishery that is based heavily on reservoir‐adapted introduced species. Cascading effects of river impoundment resulted in a mismatch between embodied energy and market value: energetic costs of fisheries production increased, whereas market value decreased. This was partially attributable to changes in species functional composition but also strongly linked to species identities that affected market value as a result of consumer preferences even when species were functionally similar. Similar trends are expected in other large tropical rivers following impoundment. In addition to identifying consequences of a common anthropogenic impact on an important ecosystem service, our assessment provides insight into the sustainability of fisheries production in tropical rivers and priorities for regional biodiversity conservation.
ROLE OF SURFACE WOUNDS AND BROWN ALGAL EPIPHYTES IN THE COLONIZATION OF ASCOPHYLLUM NODOSUM (PHAEOPHYCEAE) FRONDS BY VERTEBRATA LANOSA (RHODOPHYTA)1
Authors: Longtin Caroline M. , Scrosati Ricardo A.
Published: May 2009

Ascophyllum nodosum (L.) Le Jol. forms extensive beds in wave‐sheltered, rocky intertidal habitats on the northwestern Atlantic coast. This fucoid seaweed is host to an obligate red algal epiphyte, Vertebrata lanosa (L.) T. A. Chr. [=Polysiphonia lanosa (L.) Tandy], and two facultative brown algal epiphytes, Elachista fucicola (Velley) Aresch. and Pylaiella littoralis (L.) Kjellm. Although V. lanosa can occur throughout most of the length of host fronds, it largely predominates in midfrond segments. The two brown algal epiphytes are restricted to distal segments. Through field experiments conducted in Nova Scotia, Canada, we tested the hypothesis that surface wounds are required for the colonization of distal segments of host fronds by V. lanosa. Distal tissues normally have a smooth surface because of their young age (A. nodosum fronds grow apically). By creating small wounds that mimicked grazing wounds distributed elsewhere on host fronds, we demonstrated that V. lanosa can colonize distal frond segments during the growth and reproductive season (summer and autumn). Approximately half of the artificial wounds were colonized by V. lanosa during this time. The experimental exclusion of both brown algal epiphytes from distal frond segments did not affect colonization by V. lanosa. Thus, we conclude that the absence of surface irregularities on distal segments of host fronds, specifically small wounds, is the main factor explaining the absence of V. lanosa there. We propose that further experimental work clarifying epiphyte distribution in host beds will enhance our ability to understand the functional role of epiphytes in intertidal ecosystems.
TRANSCRIPTIONAL ANALYSIS OF THE UNICELLULAR, DIAZOTROPHIC CYANOBACTERIUM CYANOTHECE SP. ATCC 51142 GROWN UNDER SHORT DAY/NIGHT CYCLES1
Authors: Toepel Jo¨rg , McDermott Jason E. , Summerfield Tina C. , Sherman Louis A.
Published: May 2009

Cyanothece sp. strain ATCC 51142 is a unicellular, diazotrophic cyanobacterium that demonstrates extensive metabolic periodicities of photosynthesis, respiration, and nitrogen fixation when grown under N2‐fixing conditions. We have performed a global transcription analysis of this organism using 6 h light:dark (L:D) cycles in order to determine the response of the cell to these conditions and to differentiate between diurnal and circadian‐regulated genes. In addition, we used a context‐likelihood of relatedness (CLR) analysis with these data and those from 2 d L:D and L:D plus continuous light experiments to better differentiate between diurnal and circadian‐regulated genes. Cyanothece sp. acclimated in several ways to growth under short L:D conditions. Nitrogen was fixed in every second dark period and only once in each 24 h period. Nitrogen fixation was strongly correlated to the energy status of the cells and glycogen breakdown, and high respiration rates were necessary to provide appropriate energy and anoxic conditions for this process. We conclude that glycogen breakdown is a key regulatory step within these complex processes. Our results demonstrated that the main metabolic genes involved in photosynthesis, respiration, nitrogen fixation, and central carbohydrate metabolism have strong (or total) circadian‐regulated components. The short L:D cycles enable us to identify transcriptional differences among the family of psbA genes, as well as the differing patterns of the hup genes, which follow the same pattern as nitrogenase genes, relative to the hox genes, which displayed a diurnal, dark‐dependent gene expression.
PULSES OF PHOSPHATE PROMOTE DOMINANCE OF THE TOXIC CYANOPHYTE CYLINDROSPERMOPSIS RACIBORSKII IN A SUBTROPICAL WATER RESERVOIR1
Authors: Posselt Amanda J. , Burford Michele A. , Shaw Glen
Published: May 2009

The role of dissolved inorganic phosphorus (DIP) in promoting dominance of the toxic nitrogen (N)‐fixing cyanobacterium Cylindrospermopsis raciborskii (Wołosz.) Seenayya et Subba Raju was examined in a subtropical water reservoir, Lake Samsonvale (=North Pine reservoir). A novel in situ bioassay approach, using dialysis tubing rather than bottles or bags, was used to determine the change in C. raciborskii dominance with daily additions of DIP. A statistically significant increase in dominance of C. raciborskii was observed when DIP was added at two concentrations (0.32 μM and 16 μM) in a daily pulse over a 4 d period in three separate experiments in the summer of 2006/2007. There was an increase in both C. raciborskii cell concentrations and biovolume in two DIP treatments, but not in the ammoniacal N + DIP treatment. In addition, overall phytoplankton cell concentrations increased with DIP addition, indicating that Lake Samsonvale was DIP limited at the time of experiments. Given the bioassay response, it is likely that dominance of C. raciborskii could increase in Lake Samsonvale with periodic injections of DIP such as inflow events.
Experience of mandatory nucleic acid test (NAT) screening across all blood organizations in Germany: NAT yield versus breakthrough transmissions
Authors: Nübling C. Micha , Heiden Margarethe , Chudy Michael , Kress Julia , Seitz Rainer , Keller‐Stanislawski Brigitte , Funk Markus B.
Published: May 2009

BACKGROUND: Mandatory nucleic acid test (NAT) blood screening was introduced in Germany in 1999 for hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA and in 2004 for human immunodeficiency virus Type 1 (HIV‐1) RNA. Minimal sensitivity limits of 5000 IU HCV RNA/mL and 10,000 IU HIV‐1 RNA/mL were defined for the individual donation facilitating testing of minipools (MPs). The NAT yield obtained from all blood organizations is summarized. Transfusion‐associated virus transmissions despite NAT screening (“breakthrough transmissions”) are analyzed.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: In Germany, a variety of NAT assays is applied for NAT screening pool sizes of up to 96 donations. Subsets of NAT yield cases were characterized with regard to viral loads by quantitative NAT and with regard to viral genotypes. Confirmed breakthrough transmissions were analyzed using different molecular and serologic assays.

RESULTS: Ninety‐two HCV NAT yield cases among 40.8 million and 11 HIV‐1 NAT yield cases among 17.1 million donations were identified. During this period, one transmission case was confirmed for HCV and one for HIV‐1. The two incidents escaped NAT detection because of low‐level viremia and/or suboptimal amplification efficiency. Evidence was obtained for a case of HIV‐1 nontransmission by a low‐level HIV‐1 contaminated red blood cell unit.

CONCLUSION: NAT screening of MPs identified the vast majority of window‐phase donations. A significant number of transmission cases was interdicted; breakthrough transmissions may still occur as rare events, even with individual‐donation NAT in place. Sensitivity limits might be adapted to the current “state of the art” taking account of viral dynamics during early infection, incidence rates, and costs.
Modeling Uncertainties in Mining Pillar Stability Analysis
Authors: Cauvin Maxime , Verdel Thierry , Salmon Romuald
Published: May 2009

Many countries are now facing problems related to their past mining activities. One of the greatest problems concerns the potential surface instability. In areas where a room‐and‐pillar extraction method was used, deterministic methodologies are generally used to assess the hazard of surface collapses. However, those methodologies suffer from not being able to take into account all the uncertainties inherent in any hazard analysis. Through the practical example of the assessment of a single pillar stability in a very simple mining layout, this article introduces a logical framework that can be used to incorporate the different kinds of uncertainties related to data and models, as well as to specific expert's choices in the hazard or risk analysis process. Practical recommendations and efficient tools are also provided to help engineers and experts in their daily work.
The Role of Similarity Cues in the Development of Trustin Sources of Information About GM Food
Authors: Meijnders Anneloes , Midden Cees , Olofsson Anna , Öhman Susanna , Matthes Jörg , Bondarenko Olha , Gutteling Jan , Rusanen Maria
Published: May 2009

In evaluating complex new technologies, people are usually dependent on information provided by others, for example, experts or journalists, and have to determine whether they can trust these information sources. This article focuses on similarity as the basis for trust. The first experiment (N = 261) confirmed that a journalist writing about genetically modified (GM) food was trusted more when his attitude was congruent with that of his readers. In addition, the experiment showed that this effect was mediated by the perceived similarity of the journalist. The second experiment (N = 172) revealed that trust in a journalist writing about the focal domain of GM food was even influenced by him expressing a congruent attitude in an unrelated domain. This result supports a general similarity account of the congruence effect on trust, as opposed to a confirmatory bias account.
Evaluation of DNA Mixtures from Database Search
Authors: Chung Yuk‐Ka , Hu Yue‐Qing , Fung Wing K.
Published: May 2009

SummaryWith the aim of bridging the gap between DNA mixture analysis and DNA database search, a novel approach is proposed to evaluate the forensic evidence of DNA mixtures when the suspect is identified by the search of a database of DNA profiles. General formulae are developed for the calculation of the likelihood ratio for a two‐person mixture under general situations including multiple matches and imperfect evidence. The influence of the prior probabilities on the weight of evidence under the scenario of multiple matches is demonstrated by a numerical example based on Hong Kong data. Our approach is shown to be capable of presenting the forensic evidence of DNA mixtures in a comprehensive way when the suspect is identified through database search.
Insecticidal and synergistic effects of Majorana hortensis essential oil and some of its major constituents
Authors: Abbassy Mostafa A. , Abdelgaleil Samir A. M. , Rabie Rasha Y. A.
Published: May 2009

The essential oil from leaves of Majorana hortensis Moench (Lamiaceae) was isolated by hydrodistillation with a yield of 1.6% (wt/wt). The insecticidal activity of the oil was evaluated against fourth instars of Spodoptera littoralis Boisduval (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) and adults of Aphis fabae L. (Hemiptera: Aphididae). The oil showed a remarkable toxic effect against S. littoralis in a topical application assay (LD50 = 2.48 μg per larva) and in a residual film assay (LC50 = 3.14 g/l). The oil of M. hortensis also exhibited a pronounced toxic effect against A. fabae adults with LC50 values of 1.86 and 2.27 g/l in rapid dipping and residual film assays, respectively. Gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry analyses of M. hortensis essential oils revealed the presence of 31 compounds and the main components were terpinen‐4‐ol (30.0%), γ‐terpinene (11.3%), and trans‐sabinene hydrate (10.8%). Repeated column chromatography of M. hortensis oil on silica gel led to the isolation of two major constituents, which were characterized based on 1H‐nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometric data, as terpinen‐4‐ol and γ‐terpinene. These two components were examined for their insecticidal and synergistic activities towards S. littoralis and A. fabae. Terpinen‐4‐ol and γ‐terpinene exhibited a significant insecticidal activity against both insects, but γ‐terpinene was more toxic than terpinen‐4‐ol. When tested in a binary mixture with the synthetic insecticides profenofos and methomyl, it was found that both compounds enhanced the insecticidal activity of these insecticides by two‐ to threefold. These results show that terpinen‐4‐ol and γ‐terpinene have a synergistic effect on the insecticidal activities of synthetic insecticides profenofos and methomyl.
Stability of crestal bone level at platform‐switched non‐submerged titanium implants: a histomorphometrical study in dogs
Authors: Becker Jürgen , Ferrari Daniel , Mihatovic Ilja , Sahm Narja , Schaer Alex , Schwarz Frank
Published: May 2009

Objectives: To investigate the influence of platform switching on crestal bone level changes at non‐submerged titanium implants over a period of 6 months.

Material and Methods: Titanium implants (n=72) were placed at 0.4 mm above the alveolar crest in the lower jaws of 12 dogs and randomly assigned to either matching or non‐matching (circumferential horizontal mismatch of 0.3 mm) healing abutments. At 4, 8, 12, and 24 weeks, dissected blocks were processed for histomorphometrical analysis. Measurements were made between the implant shoulder (IS) and the apical extension of the long junctional epithelium (aJE), the most coronal level of bone in contact with the implant (CLB), and the level of the alveolar bone crest (BC).

Results: At 24 weeks, differences in the mean IS–aJE, IS–CLB, and IS–BC values were 0.2 ± 1.2, 0.3 ± 0.7, and 0.3 ± 0.8 mm at the buccal aspect, and 0.2 ± 0.9, 0.3 ± 0.5, and 0.3 ± 0.8 mm at the lingual aspect, respectively. Comparisons between groups revealed no significant differences at either the buccal or the lingual aspects.

Conclusions: It was concluded that (i) bone remodelling was minimal in both groups and (ii) platform switching may not be of crucial importance for maintenance of the crestal bone level.
Supportive periodontal therapy of furcation sites: non‐surgical instrumentation with or without topical doxycycline
Authors: Dannewitz Bettina , Lippert Katherine , Lang Niklaus P. , Tonetti Maurizio S. , Eickholz Peter
Published: May 2009

Objectives: Evaluation of the clinical effect of topical subgingival application of doxycycline gel adjunctively to scaling and root planing (SRP) at furcation sites during supportive periodontal therapy (SPT).

Material and Methods: In 39 SPT patients exhibiting at least four pockets 5 mm with bleeding on probing, SRP was rendered in all pockets 4 mm. Additionally, 14% doxycycline gel was applied subgingivally in 20 patients after random assignment (SRP&DOXY). Clinical parameters were assessed at baseline, 3, 6, and 12 months after therapy. Additional benefit of topical doxycycline was evaluated as a short‐term (3 months) improvement of furcation involvement and influence on the frequency of re‐instrumentation up to 12 months.

Results: A total of 323 furcation sites (class 0: 160; class I: 101; class II: 18; and class III: 44) were treated (SRP: 165, SRP&DOXY: 158). SRP&DOXY resulted in better improvement of furcation involvement than SRP alone 3 months after treatment (p=0.041). However, SRP&DOXY failed to show a significant difference between both groups in the number of re‐instrumentations.

Conclusion: Single subgingival application of doxycycline in addition to SRP had a short‐term effect on furcation involvement. However, it failed to reduce the frequency of re‐instrumentation up to 12 months at furcation sites.
Clear cell myoepithelial carcinoma of the skin. A case report
Authors: Stojsic Zorica , Brasanac Dimitrije , Boricic Ivan , Bacetic Dragoljub
Published: May 2009

Myoepitheliomas are tumors of myoepithelial cells, most frequently diagnosed in the salivary glands. Cutaneous location is very rare, especially for malignant variant. We report a case of recurrent cutaneous myoepithelial carcinoma of the femoral region in a 51‐year‐old woman. Histologically, the tumor was confined to the dermis and superficial subcutaneous fat tissue, exhibiting typical multinodular pattern. The majority of tumor cells were of clear cell type, although rare epithelioid and spindle cells were also present. Nuclear atypia, mitotic activity of 12 mitoses per 10 microscopic high power fields and Ki‐67 labeling index of 20%, as well as three recurrences, corroborated the malignant nature of the tumor. Immunohistochemistry showed positivity for cytokeratin, epithelial membrane antigen, vimentin, S‐100 protein and myogenic markers (α‐smooth muscle actin and muscle‐specific actin HHF‐35) in keeping with the myoepithelial cell immunophenotype. Staining for CD34, desmin and HMB‐45 was negative. Myoepithelial carcinoma should be considered in the differential diagnosis of cutaneous neoplasms composed predominantly of clear cells.