bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Turonian marine amniotes from the Bohemian Cretaceous Basin, Czech Republic
Authors: KEAR BENJAMIN P. , EKRT BORIS , PROKOP JOSEF , GEORGALIS GEORGIOS L. 
Published: July 2013

AbstractDespite being known for over 155 years, the Late Cretaceous marine amniotes of the Bohemian Cretaceous Basin in the Czech Republic have received little recent attention. These fossils are however significant because they record a diverse range of taxa from an incompletely known geological interval: the Turonian. The presently identifiable remains include isolated bones and teeth, together with a few disarticulated skeletons. The most productive stratigraphical unit is the Lower–Middle Turonian Bílá Hora Formation, which has yielded small dermochelyoid sea turtles, a possible polycotylid plesiosaur and elements compatible with the giant predatory pliosauromorphPolyptychodon. A huge protostegid, together with an enigmatic cheloniid-like turtle,Polyptychodon-like dentigerous components, an elasmosaurid and a tethysaurine mosasauroid have also been found in strata corresponding to the Middle–Upper Turonian Jizera Formation and Upper Turonian – Coniacian Teplice Formation. The compositional character of the Bohemian Cretaceous Basin fauna is compatible with coeval assemblages from elsewhere along the peri-Tethyan shelf of Europe, and incorporates the globally terminal Middle–Upper Turonian occurrence of pliosauromorph megacarnivores, which were seemingly replaced by mosasauroids later in the Cretaceous.
Elemental stoichiometry of marine particulate matter measured by wavelength dispersive X-ray fluorescence (WDXRF) spectroscopy
Authors: Paulino A.I. , Heldal M. , Norland S. , Egge J.K. 
Published: July 2013

This paper describes the development of a method for quantitative measurement of the elemental composition of particulate matter (PM) in seawater. This method is based on use of wavelength dispersive X-ray fluorescence (WDXRF) analysing PM harvested on various filter types. As the amount of material is less than a monolayer of cells on the filters we reduced the need for absorption correction. Given the appropriate combination of filters and elements the detection limits are low: <1 µg/filter for carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and <0.1 µg/filter for silicon (Si), phosphorus (P), calcium (Ca) and iron (Fe). The analytical range used was90–750 µgC,23–116 µgN and7–30 µgP, depending on the filters applied. Calibration constants for the elements included in this study were obtained from analysis of known quantities of chemical compounds on filters or silver plates. For carbon and nitrogen we also used comparative measurements ofSynechococcussp. cultures by CHN analyser and WDXRF. We harvested PM from 150 ml to 2000 ml on each filter in three replicates, obtaining less than 5% analytical variability between the replicates. One of the challenges using WDXRF as proposed here is the absorption of X-ray signals by the filter and variability of cell/particle sizes, and, consequentlyly, the variability of harvested PM on various filters. We find that an anodisc filter is best suited for C and N, while polycarbonate filters are best for heavier elements. Here we present analytical details and some data from field experiments related to C, N, P, Si, Ca and Fe in particles from seawater.
Proposed function of alternative oxidase in mitochondrial sulphide oxidation detoxification in the Echiuran worm,Urechis unicinctus
Authors: Huang Jian , Zhang Litao , Li Jinlong , Shi Xiaoli , Zhang Zhifeng 
Published: July 2013

Alternative oxidase (AOX), a ubiquinol oxidase, introduces a branch pathway to the respiratory electron transport chain (ETC), bypassing complexes III and IV and catalysing the cyanide-resistant reduction of oxygen to water without translocation of protons across the inner mitochondrial membrane. Thus, it functions as a non-energy-conserving member of respiratory ETC. Previous studies of AOX focused on plants and some fungi, whereas data on animals are limited. In this study, full-length AOX cDNA was cloned from the Echiuran worm,Urechis unicinctus, a marine benthic invertebrate. In addition, mRNA expression pattern of combined activity of cytochromecoxidase (CCO) in the body wall and hindgut of the worm exposed in sulphide (50 µM and 150 µM) was measured. The results revealed that AOX mRNA expression increased in a time- and concentration-dependent manner in both tissues, was significantly increased at 48 h, and continuously increased with time. In contrast, the activity of CCO decreased significantly at 24 h and was inhibited at 48 h during exposure to 150 µM sulphide. The present data indicate the expression of AOX mRNA depended on the sulphide concentration present as well as being influenced by the physical condition of the worm, especially the CCO activity.
A Fine Balance: Negotiating fashion and respectable femininity in middle-class Hyderabad, India
Authors: GILBERTSON AMANDA 
Published: July 2013

AbstractDrawing on twelve months of fieldwork in suburban Hyderabad, this paper explores the double binds experienced by middle-class young women as they attempt to meet the competing demands of ‘respectable’ and ‘fashionable’ femininity. For middle-class women, respectability requires purposeful movement, demure posture and modest clothing when in public, as well as avoidance of lower-class spaces where men congregate. Status can, however, also be achieved through more revealing fashionable clothing and consumption in elite public spaces. Whilst respectability for some sections of the middle class necessitates avoidance of even platonic relationships with the opposite sex, upper middle-class informants encourage heterosociality and for some upper middle-class and elite youth pre-marital romance is a form of ‘fashion’ due to its location in high-status spaces of leisure and consumption. The tensions described in this paper reveal the fragmentation of Hyderabad's middle class and the barriers to social mobility experienced by women for whom the relationship between legitimate cultural capital and feminine modesty is becoming increasingly complex.
Development and evaluation of loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) for rapid detection of Clonorchis sinensis from its first intermediate hosts, freshwater snails
Authors: CHEN Y. , WEN T. , LAI D.-H. , WEN Y.-Z. , WU Z.-D. , YANG T.-B. , YU X.-B. , HIDE G. , LUN Z.-R. 
Published: July 2013

SUMMARYClonorchiasis, caused by Clonorchis sinensis, is a key foodborne zoonosis, which is mainly found in China, Korea and Vietnam. Detection of this parasite from the second intermediate host, the freshwater fish is the common method for epidemiological surveys of this parasite, but is time consuming, labour intensive and easily leads to misdiagnosis. In this study, we have developed a rapid, sensitive and reliable molecular method for the diagnosis of C. sinensis from its first intermediate hosts, freshwater snails, based on a loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) method. The specific amplified fragment from genomic DNA of C. sinensis did not cross-react with those from other relevant trematodes and a range of hosts (freshwater fish, shrimps and snails) of C. sinensis living in similar environments. The detection limit of the LAMP method was as low as 10 fg which was 1000 times more sensitive than conventional PCR, which was also demonstrated by successful application to field samples. These results show that the LAMP method is a more sensitive tool than conventional PCR for the detection of C. sinensis infection in the first intermediate hosts and, due to a simpler protocol, is an ideal molecular method for field-based epidemiological surveys of this parasite.
Temperature during the free-living phase of an ectoparasite influences the emergence pattern of the infective phase
Authors: AMAT-VALERO M. , CALERO-TORRALBO M. A. , VALERA F. 
Published: July 2013

SUMMARYUnderstanding the population dynamics and co-evolution of host–parasite systems requires detailed knowledge of their phenology which, in turn, requires a deep knowledge of the effect of abiotic factors on the life cycles of organisms. Temperature is known to be a key environmental influence that participates in the regulation of diapause. Yet, not much is known about the effect of temperature on the free-living stages of true parasites and how it may influence host–parasite interactions. Here we experimentally study the effect of ambient temperature on overwintering pupae ofCarnus hemapterus(Diptera, Carnidae), an ectoparasitic fly of various bird species. We also test whether chilling is a prerequisite for completion of diapause in this species. In the course of three winter seasons we experimentally exposed carnid pupae from nests of various host species to spring temperatures with and without chilling and recorded the emergence patterns in experimental and control groups. Experimental groups showed an advanced emergence date, a lower emergence rate and, consequently, a protracted emergence period. Chilling had no obvious effect on the start of emergence but it did advance the mean emergence date, shortened the length of the emergence period when compared with the control treatment and increased the emergence rate when compared with the spring treatment. This study identifies an environmental cue, namely temperature during the free-living stage, affecting the emergence of a widespread parasite and demonstrates the plasticity of diapause in this parasite. Our findings are of potential significance in understanding host–parasite interactions.
Altered social and non-social decision-making in recreational and dependent cocaine users
Authors: Hulka L. M. , Eisenegger C. , Preller K. H. , Vonmoos M. , Jenni D. , Bendrick K. , Baumgartner M. R. , Seifritz E. , Quednow B. B. 
Published: July 2013

BackgroundMaladaptive decision-making is assumed to be a core feature of cocaine addiction. Indeed, numerous studies have reported deficits in non-social decision-making tasks and reward-related impulsivity in dependent cocaine users. However, social decision-making has not been examined in cocaine users yet. Moreover, it is unknown if even recreational and non-dependent cocaine use is linked to decision-making deficits. Therefore, we investigated whether recreational and dependent cocaine users exhibit alterations in social and non-social decision-making.MethodThe performance of healthy controls (n = 68), recreational cocaine users (n = 68) and dependent cocaine users (n = 30) in classical decision-making paradigms (Iowa Gambling Task, Delay Discounting) and in social interaction paradigms (Distribution Game, Dictator Game) was assessed.ResultsDecisions in the social interaction tasks of both cocaine user groups were more self-serving compared with controls as cocaine users preferred higher monetary payoffs for themselves. In the Iowa Gambling Task, only dependent cocaine users were more likely to choose disadvantageous card decks, reflecting worse decision-making. They were also more likely to choose immediate smaller rewards over larger delayed rewards in the Delay Discounting task.ConclusionsOur results imply that both recreational and dependent cocaine users are more concerned with their own monetary gain when interacting with another person. Furthermore, primarily dependent cocaine users are less foresighted and more impulsive regarding immediate reward. Overall, social interaction deficits are already present in recreational users, while non-social decision-making deficits occur predominantly in dependent cocaine users. Thus, social interaction training and cognitive remediation strategies may improve treatment success and quality of life in cocaine dependence.
Avoidant strategy in insecure females
Authors: Chen Bin-Bin , Li Dan 
Published: July 2013

AbstractThis commentary cites evidence to argue that girls growing up in a competitive and aggressive environment are more likely to shift to avoidant attachment than to ambivalent attachment in middle childhood. These avoidant women are also more likely to favor a short-term mating strategy. The role of oxytocin (OT) and early experience in shaping an avoidant attachment in females is also discussed.
Synthesizing life history theory with sexual selection: Toward a comprehensive model of alternative reproductive strategies
Authors: Jackson Jenée James , Ellis Bruce J. 
Published: July 2013

AbstractDel Giudice's model of sex-specific attachment patterns demonstrates the usefulness of infusing life history theory with principles of sexual selection. We believe a full synthesis between the two theories provides a foundation for a comprehensive model of alternative reproductive strategies. We extend Del Giudice's ideas based on our own program of research, focusing specifically on the importance of intrasexual competition and the individual phenotype during development.
Adaptive developmental plasticity might not contribute much to the adaptiveness of reproductive strategies
Authors: Penke Lars 
Published: July 2013

AbstractDel Giudice's model belongs among those that highlight the role of adaptive developmental plasticity in human reproductive strategies; but at least three other forms of evolutionary adaptation also influence reproductive behavior. Similar to earlier models, the existing evidence suggests that Del Giudice's hypothesized effects are rather weak. In particular, adult attachment styles are hardly predictive of outcomes visible to natural selection.
Identifying the optimal response is not a necessary step toward explaining function
Authors: Brighton Henry , Olsson Henrik 
Published: July 2013

AbstractOaksford & Chater (O&C) argue that a rational analysis is required to explain why a functional process model is successful, and that, when a rational analysis is intractable, the prospects for understanding cognition from a functional perspective are gloomy. We discuss how functional explanations can be arrived at without seeking the optimal response function demanded by a rational analysis, and argue that explaining function does not require optimality.
Explaining norms and norms explained
Authors: Danks David , Eberhardt Frederick 
Published: July 2013

AbstractOaksford & Chater (O&C) aim to provide teleological explanations of behavior by giving an appropriate normative standard: Bayesian inference. We argue that there is no uncontroversial independent justification for the normativity of Bayesian inference, and that O&C fail to satisfy a necessary condition for teleological explanations: demonstration that the normative prescription played a causal role in the behavior's existence.
Bayes plus environment
Authors: McKenzie Craig R. M. 
Published: July 2013

AbstractOaksford & Chater's (O&C's) account of deductive reasoning is parsimonious at a local level (because a rational model is used to explain a wide range of behavior) and at a global level (because their Bayesian approach connects to other areas of research). Their emphasis on environmental structure is especially important, and the power of their approach is seen at both the computational and algorithmic levels.
Oaksford & Chater's theory of reasoning: High prior, lower posterior plausibility
Authors: Oberauer Klaus 
Published: July 2013

AbstractOaksford & Chater (O&C) subscribe to the view that a conditional expresses a high conditional probability of the consequent, given the antecedent, but they model conditionals as expressing a dependency between antecedent and consequent. Therefore, their model is inconsistent with their theoretical commitment. The model is also inconsistent with some findings on how people interpret conditionals and how they reason from them.
Mental probability logic
Authors: Pfeifer Niki , Kleiter Gernot D. 
Published: July 2013

AbstractWe discuss Oaksford & Chater's (O&C's) probabilistic approach from a probability logical point of view. Specifically, we comment on subjective probability, the indispensability of logic, the Ramsey test, the consequence relation, human nonmonotonic reasoning, intervals, generalized quantifiers, and rational analysis.
Incidence of pertussis in patients of general practitioners in Poland
Authors: STEFANOFF P. , PARADOWSKA-STANKIEWICZ I. A. , LIPKE M. , KARASEK E. , RASTAWICKI W. , ZASADA A. , SAMUELS S. , CZAJKA H. , PEBODY R. G. 
Published: July 2013

SUMMARYWe estimated the incidence of pertussis in patients consulting general practitioners (GPs). Between July 2009 and April 2011, we conducted a prospective cohort study of patients attending 78 general practices (158 863 persons overall). We included patients aged ⩾3 years, with cough lasting 2–15 weeks, who gave informed consent. GPs interviewed eligible patients, collected a blood specimen, and a nasopharyngeal swab. At follow-up 30–60 days after the initial visit, physicians collected a second blood specimen and conducted patient interview. Cases were confirmed by specific IgA and/or IgG antibody titre exceeding significantly the general population background level or detection of bacterial DNA by real-time PCR. During the study period, 3864 patients with prolonged cough consulted the participating GPs, of those 1852 met the inclusion criteria, 1232 were recruited, and 288 were confirmed as pertussis cases (4% by PCR, 96% by serology). The adjusted incidence rate was 201·1/100 000 person-years [95% confidence interval (CI) 133·9–302·0], ranging from 456·5 (95% CI 239·3–870·8) in the 15–19 years group to 94·0 (95% CI 33·4–264·5) in the 25–29 years group. The reporting ratio was 61, ranging from 4 in those aged 3–5 years, to 167 in those aged 65–69 years. The study confirmed high incidence of pertussis in all age groups in the general population, in particular in adults, not appropriately documented by the existing surveillance system.
Foraging ecology and choice of feeding habitat in the New Zealand Fairy TernSternula nereis davisae
Authors: ISMAR STEFANIE M. H. , TRNSKI TOM , BEAUCHAMP TONY , BURY SARAH J. , WILSON DAVID , KANNEMEYER ROBYN , BELLINGHAM MARK , BAIRD KAREN 
Published: July 2013

SummaryNo published information is available on the foraging ecology and choice of feeding habitat of New Zealand’s rarest breeding bird: the New Zealand Fairy Tern (NZFT)Sternula nereis davisae. To address this gap, we conducted an assessment of the largest remaining breeding population at Mangawhai Harbour, Northland, New Zealand, during the chick-rearing period of the 2010/2011 breeding season. We combined visual tracking of birds with prey surveys and stable isotope analyses, and we present the first quantitative assessment of NZFT foraging. We recorded 405 foraging dives that show NZFT foraging habitat includes the water edges, shallow channels, and pools on the tidal flats of mangrove-lined (Avicennia marinavar.resinifera) parts of the estuary; tidal pools on mud- and sandflats in the mid-estuary and lower harbour; the shallow margins of the dredged main channel in the lower harbour; the oxbow lagoons on the sand spit; and coastal shallows. Our study identifies the mangrove-lined highly tidal and shallow mid-estuary and the lagoon on the sand spit as foraging hotspots for the Mangawhai breeding population of the NZFT. The prey survey employed a seine-net sampling method at identified NZFT foraging sites and yielded 4,367 prey-sized fish of 11 species, two of which had not previously been reported in Mangawhai Harbour, as well as numerous shrimps. The most abundant fish were gobies of the genusFavonigobius. Our stable isotope results highlight gobies as the most important prey for NZFT chick rearing, also indicating that flounderRhombosoleasp. contribute to NZFT diet. We raise the possibility that shrimps may also constitute a substantial diet component for NZFT, potentially providing up to 21% of diet mass for adult birds. While our results provide a first basis to understanding the feeding ecology of NZFT during their breeding season in order to facilitate conservation planning, further research is required to address inter-annual variation and to identify key foraging grounds for this Critically Endangered bird at other breeding sites.
Effects of metformin on fertilisation of bovine oocytes and early embryo development: possible involvement of AMPK3-mediated TSC2 activation
Authors: Pikiou Olympia , Vasilaki Anna , Leondaritis George , Vamvakopoulos Nikos , Messinis Ioannis E. 
Published: July 2013

SummaryStudies on bovine oocytes have revealed that the activation of adenosine monophosphate activated protein kinase (AMPK) by millimolar concentrations of metformin controls nuclear maturation. Tuberous sclerosis complex 2 (TSC2) has been identified as a downstream target of AMPK. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of addition of low concentrations of metformin (1 nM to 10 μM) on the percentage of cultured cumulus–oocyte complexes (COC) giving rise to cleavage-stage embryos and AMPK-mediated TSC2 activation. Metformin was supplemented either throughout in vitro embryo production (IVP) or only during in vitro fertilization (IVF). COC were matured in vitro, inseminated, and presumptive zygotes cultured for a further 72 h post insemination before the percentage of COC that gave rise to zygotes and early embryo development was assessed. The presence of TSC2 in bovine embryos and its possible AMPK-induced activation were assessed by immunocytochemistry. Metformin had a dose-dependent effect on the numbers of cultured COC that gave rise to embryos. Drug treatment either throughout IVP or only during IVF decreased the percentage of ≥8-cell embryos (1 μM, P < 0.05; 10 μM, P < 0.01; and 0.1 μM, 10 μM, P < 0.01, respectively) and increased the percentage of 2-cell embryos (10 μM, P < 0.01 and P < 0.05 respectively). The percentage of cultured COC that gave rise to zygotes was not affected by metformin. TSC2 is expressed in early embryos. Metformin (10 μM) either throughout IVP or during IVF only, increased AMPK-induced PhosphoS1387-TSC2 immunoreactivity (P < 0.01) and this increase corresponded to the total TSC2 protein levels expressed in cells. Our results suggest that there is a dose-dependent negative effect of metformin on the ability of oocytes to cleave following insemination, possibly mediated through an AMPK-induced activation of TSC2.