bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of habitat fragmentation of giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) on the north slopes of Daxiangling Mountains, Sichuan province, China
Authors: Zhang Wenguang , Hu Yuanman , Chen Bingyao , Tang Zhonghai , Xu Chonggang , Qi Dunwu , Hu Jinchu 
Published: October 2007

Abstract
Human activities have been a main cause of floral and faunal species extinction and loss of local and global biodiversity. Habitat and population can become fragmented and isolated under anthropogenic disturbances. In this study, we focus on the effect of human activities on the habitat and population of the giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) in the north slopes of Daxiangling Mountains, Sichuan province, China. Based on eight months of field investigation in 2004, we found that the distribution of the giant panda population has been limited to remnants of habitat due to human activities such as road construction, mining and hydropower stations. There is 100.60 km2 area suitable for the giant panda (including moderately suitable, suitable and most suitable), which only accounts for 21.33% of the bamboo area. Based on a dispersal model COST, there were 79.94 km2 areas (17.12%) (including moderately suitable, suitable and most suitable) for giant panda utilization in reality. Only 16.35 km2 areas (3.5%) of total bamboo area were most suitable. The areas that suitable for panda had decreased 20.66 km2 from 2000 in total due to people activities. The results of this study can be used to provide basic information to build nature reserve for protecting giant panda in Daxiangling Mountains.
Morphology, anatomy and histology of a new species of Flabellina Voigt, 1834 (Opisthobranchia: Aeolidoidea) from the Chilean coast
Authors: Fischer María Angélica , van der Velde Gerard , Roubos Eric 
Published: October 2007

Abstract
Flabellina cerverai sp. nov. was found in Bay La Herradura, Coquimbo, North of Chile, and clearly differs from other members of the Flabellinidae by the following combination of main characters: (1) small body size (4.5-6.3 mm), (2) translucent-yellow body coloration, with a white line along the dorsum and orange cerata, (3) rugose rhinophores, (4) anus located laterally in the anterior half of the body, (5) cerata distributed in 5 clusters with one additional ceras at the body end, (6) cerata low pedunculate, (7) radula formula 13 × (1:1:1), (8) rachidian teeth with thin and low apices, and (9) bilobed seminal receptacle in combination with a bursa copulatrix. The morphology, anatomy, histology and egg mass of this new species have been described. Special attention is given to the reproductive and central nervous system. Phylogenetic analysis shows that F. cerverai belongs to the most apomorphic Flabellinidae, with as closest relative, F. marcusorum, from which it differs in four main apomorphic characters.
Endocrine profiles during silvering of the European eel (Anguilla anguilla L.) living in saltwater
Authors: van Ginneken Vincent , Durif Caroline , Dufour Sylvie , Sbaihi Miskal , Boot Ron , Noorlander Kees , Doornbos Jorg , Murk Albertinka , van den Thillart Guido 
Published: October 2007

Abstract
The transformation of yellow eel into silver eel is called 'silvering', and takes place prior to migration. This is the first study to provide hormonal profiles of European eel (Anguilla anguilla L.) during silvering. This transformation occurs in association with hormonal surges of testosterone (T) and estradiol (E2) but not with thyroid hormones (TH) and growth hormone (GH) which have a maximum activity in spring and a minimum activity in summer and autumn. It is therefore suggested THs and GH are not important for eel gonadal development in the autumn. Based on PCA analysis with physiological, morphological and endocrinological parameters it is concluded that the transition is gradual and that eels go through several stages.
Life cycle and genetic differences of two Branchipus schaefferi populations from Morocco (Anostraca: Crustacea)
Authors: Beladjal Lynda , Weekers Peter , Mertens Johan 
Published: October 2007

AbstractThe somatic growth, longevity, and reproduction of two Moroccan anostracan populations from different climatic areas were studied under standardized laboratory conditions. Both populations were subjected to allozyme analyses covering four loci, and molecular analyses of the variable regions, the Internal Transcribed Spacers (ITS1 & ITS2) intervening the nuclear ribosomal genes (18S, 5.8S, 28S rDNA). The ecological characteristics of the life cycle of each population are presented, together with their genetic differences and phylogenetic relationships.
A descriptive myology of Corydoras aeneus (Gill, 1858) (Siluriformes: Callichthyidae), with a brief discussion on adductor mandibulae homologies
Authors: Huysentruyt Frank , Geerinckx Tom , Adriaens Dominique 
Published: October 2007

Abstract
Cranial and postcranial myology of adult Corydoras aeneus is described and results discussed in comparison to other ostariophysan, siluriform and/or loricarioid fishes. Further, a brief discussion on m. adductor mandibulae homologies is given providing arguments for the use of the terminology proposed by Diogo and Chardon (2000) in future studies dealing with the myology of Siluriformes. Doing this, we here identified an A1OST, A2, and A′3 section in C. aeneus and recognised the homology of the m. retractor tentaculi muscle with the A″3. Next to this, the opercular system is discussed, focussing on similarities in this system in both a callichthyid (C. aeneus) and loricariid (Ancistrus cf. triradiatus) representative. In both these families, the m. dilatator operculi is enlarged and the direction of the operculo-hyomandibular articulation has shifted. In addition, in both lineages, the m. hyohyoidei abductor has also shifted its orientation, acting as an adductor. These similarities seem to corroborate the 'decoupling hypothesis' by Schaefer and Lauder (1986) in which a decoupling of elements in primitive members of a lineage leads to a higher morphological diversity within that lineage combined with the possible acquisition of new functions.
A study of population numbers and ecological interactions of soil and forest floor microfauna
Authors: Krivtsov Vladimir , Garside Adam , Brendler Ann , Liddell Keith , Griffiths Bryan , Staines Harry 
Published: October 2007

Abstract
Microinvertebrate abundance was measured, together with forest soil properties and litter components in eight plots dominated by beech and birch during May to August 2001. The results were analysed using ANOVA, stepwise regression and correlation analysis. Both protozoa and nematodes were analysed according to their functional groups. The protozoa were flagellates, ciliates and naked amoebae, and the nematodes were microbial and plant feeding nematodes. Moisture levels were between 28% and 33% in soil, and 50% to 70% in litter. Population numbers were very variable between sites and dates, and showed variable levels between May and July followed by a significant increase in August.ANOVA showed significant site and date effects, mainly in the litter. Stepwise regression models and correlation analysis revealed a number of interactions among separate groups of protozoa and nematodes, as well as their interrelations with fungi and bacteria. In addition, statistical analysis of soil data revealed a number of microfaunal relationships with soil pH, moisture and organic content, whilst in the field layer a number of significant interactions with specific forest litter fractions were found.The results have revealed particularly high levels of microfaunal abundance in the litter fraction compared to the soil, with flagellates and microbial feeding nematodes showing the highest levels among the trophic groups studied. These data compare well with other studies in similar ecosystems. The invertebrates present appear to be concentrated in hotspots of biological activity. In soil, they may predominantly have been confined to the rhizosphere. In the litter, their numbers may have been enhanced by nutrient availability, which may have increased throughout the study period owing to the gradual progress of decomposition facilitated by the combination of faunal, bacterial and fungal activity.
The Mandate of the Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief—Institutional, Procedural and Substantive Legal Issues
Authors: Wiener Michael 
Published: October 2007

AbstractThe Role of the UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief has already been outlined by Carolyn Evans in the first issue of Religion and Human Rights on pages I:75–96. In the meantime, a doctoral thesis on the mandate of the Special Rapporteur was submitted by Michael Wiener to the Law Faculty at Trier University in Germany. e following article is the annotated English summary of this 350 pages strong thesis which has recently been published with the title Das Mandat des UN-Sonderberichterstatters über Religions- oder Weltanschauungsfreiheit—Institutionelle, prozedurale und materielle Rechtsfragen (Peter Lang, Frankfurt am Main, Berlin, Bern, Bruxelles, New York, Oxford, Wien, 2007). It explores various legal issues of the mandate in terms of institutional, procedural and substantive questions that have arisen in the Special Rapporteur's mandate practice from 1986 to 2006.
The impact of using silver alloy urinary catheters in reducing the incidence of urinary tract infections in the critical care setting
Authors: Madeo M. , Davies D. , Johnson G. , Owen E. , Wadsworth P. , Martin C.R. 
Published: October 2007

prospective study was undertaken on three critical care units to establish the efficacy of using a silver alloy urinary catheter in reducing the incidence of nosocomial urinary tract infections. Some 188 patients participated in the evaluation (94 in each group). A urine sample was obtained post insertion and every three days while on the critical care unit to detect bacteriuria. The infection rate was 12.65 in the standard group and 11.32 in the silver alloy group per 1000 catheter days respectively. The mean duration of catheterisation was 16 days (inter-quartile range 13). Gram positive cocci were responsible for 24.5% of the bacteriuria, Gram negatives 64.5% and yeasts accounted for 11%. Based on these results, routine use of silver alloy catheters cannot be justified for all patients, but may be suited to high-risk female patients.
Developing the role of the infectious diseases clinical nurse specialist
Authors: Smales C. , Varia H. 
Published: October 2007

In November 2001 an infectious diseases clinical nurse specialist (ID CNS) post was created within the infectious diseases unit (Lister unit) at Northwick Park and St Marks NHS Trusts in Harrow, Middlesex. We believe this to be the first of its kind. The purpose of this post was to provide: ■ Trust-wide infectious diseases nursing expertise ■ Specialist care within the context of the multidisciplinary team ■ Continuity of care from hospital to the community, as it was needed. A year later, after evaluation demonstrated it to be a success, this temporary post was made permanent. This article outlines how this new role has evolved and how the ID CNS has impacted on the quality of patient care and staff development.
The effect of a continuous educational program on handwashing compliance among healthcare workers in an intensive care unit
Authors: Panhotra BR , Saxena AK , Al-Arabi Al-Ghamdi AM 
Published: October 2007

Handwashing is simple, cost-effective and the single most important measure in the prevention of transmission of multiple antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which can spread via the contaminated hands of healthcare workers (HCWs) in intensive care units (ICUs). Despite this simplicity and efficacy, compliance with handwashing protocols is unsatisfactory among HCWs in ICUs. No single interventional measure is successful in improving handwashing compliance. A continuous educational program was started in February 1998 by the department of infection control, emphasising the importance of handwashing in the prevention of nosocomial infections in the ICU. It took the form of posters, lectures and regular discussions. The posters were pasted in all the strategic areas of the ICU, displaying the indications and precise technique of handwashing. HCWs were directly observed for handwashing compliance, while working in the ICU. Each indication of handwashing was counted as an opportunity of handwashing. Assessment of handwashing compliance was made once a year during the educational programme. In the final annual assessment in February 2002, out of 1,175 opportunities of handwashing, compliance was observed in 856 (72.8%) among all categories of staff. Highest compliance of 97.5% was recorded among nurses. The compliance among technicians was 47.7%, while the lowest compliance of 37.6% was observed among doctors (RR 2.591, p<0.0001). Opportunities of handwashing utilised with good technique were observed among 98.2% nurses. Handwashing compliance among females was significantly higher (76.2% versus 23.8%) than the male HCWs (RR 3.196, p<0.0001). A comparative study of the yearly assessments made since the start of the educational program also revealed significant increases in handwashing compliance among nurses (p<0.0001) and technicians (p<0.001), while no statistically significant changes in the handwashing behaviour among doctors was observed during the study period (February 1998 to February 2002). Disappointing handwashing compliance among doctors visiting and working in the ICU, despite their better understanding of hospital-acquired infections (HAI) and continuous educational programme remains a cause for concern. Additional efforts are required to discover more effective interventional measures to improve handwashing compliance among doctors.
Developing infection control services within primary care
Authors: Judge C. , Hill D. 
Published: October 2007

The aim of this paper is to discuss the provision and development of infection control services within primary care during a time of significant change. This will be aided by describing how the use of audit can assist in identifying areas of priority within an under-resourced service. There have been many changes in the provision of infection control services within primary care since the restructuring of health authorities and the introduction of Primary Care Trusts (PCT) and Health Protection Units (HPU). These changes in service provision have provided a timely opportunity to address the need for adequate infection control services for all areas outside of acute hospital care. The funding and organisation of the infection control services for primary care has been an issue of debate for a significant period of time. When services are inadequately resourced the need to prioritise activity based on risk is apparent. The use of audit can provide a basis for assessing the main areas of risk. An audit undertaken within a primary care setting, which involved GP practices, identified such priorities requiring infection control input. However the staffing resource available at that time was insufficient to subsequently address the issues identified in a proactive manner. Infection control services have developed significantly within the acute health care Trusts with infection control teams expanding to include nurse consultants, and audit and surveillance nurses. The primary care environment now needs to follow this model if patients are to receive consistently high standards of care across healthcare boundaries.
Part 1: Developing systems for surveillance
Authors: Reilly J. , Kilpatrick C. 
Published: October 2007

Efforts to establish and maintain surveillance of surgical site infections (SSIs) are underway across the UK and worldwide. Surveillance of SSI is an important element of infection control. The data from surveillance activity can be used at a local level to improve care and are being collated at a national and international level for comparative reasons and allow for sharing of best practice. In order that this data is valid, reliable and comparable, it should be collected in a standardised way and managed in a system that includes quality assurance and reporting mechanisms. The Scottish Surveillance of Healthcare Associated Infection Programme (SSHAIP) has developed a flexible user-friendly support system for effective SSI surveillance, and the team offers training in data definitions, data management, quality assurance and reporting. This is an important function of any national system of surveillance and the training component of SSHAIP has been highly evaluated by its participants. This article details the components of the surveillance programme including, data management, quality assurance and reporting within SSHAIP. This article will be followed by second one, which will focus on the training in data definitions component of the surveillance.
Surgical site infection
Authors: Reilly J. , Kilpatrick C. 
Published: October 2007

Following the article by Reilly and Kilpatrick (2004) describing a national surveillance system, this second article in the series focuses on the importance of utilising standardised definitions for surgical site infection (SSI) surveillance programmes. By consistently applying recognised, validated definitions across surveillance systems, data can be truly comparable. Furthermore, training in definitions may ensure that they are applied appropriately, therefore ensuring that valid and reliable data are collated and subsequently fed back to all those involved, which is crucial for the success of surveillance. A training programme in Scotland has been established in order to ensure all clinicians are appropriately engaged and able to participate reliably in the national programme, which was set up following publication of Health Department Letter (HDL) 57 (2001) A Framework for National Surveillance for Hospital Acquired Infection in Scotland. This article outlines the training programme devised to support the Scottish Surveillance of Healthcare Associated Infection Programme (SSHAIP). The SSHAIP team based at the Scottish Centre for Infection and Environmental Health (SCIEH) has been tasked with supporting national surveillance within Scotland following the recommendations given in HDL 57 (2001).
Outbreaks of influenza: a virus in vaccinated elderly residents
Authors: Etuwewe OM , May H. , Bakhshi S. , Wood A. , Hughes K. 
Published: October 2007

Annual influenza immunisation is the recommended practice for people such as the elderly, for whom influenza poses a substantial risk of serious illness and death. Influenza vaccines are effective in preventing, or ameliorating influenza, reducing complications and mortality (Department of Health, 2001, 2002). In long-stay residential accommodation, influenza immunisation should prevent rapid spread of infection causing outbreaks (Communicable Disease Centre, 2003). This paper reports on two outbreaks of influenza that occurred in vaccinated elderly in residential institutions. In both outbreaks the isolated virus strain was included in the composition of the influenza vaccine for that winter season. Suboptimal protection against influenza may be provided in the vaccinated elderly, due to declining competency of the ageing immune system. Furthermore, the occurrence in the late winter of these outbreaks may demonstrate waning immunity following immunisation early in the season.
Effects of dietary restriction on hematopoietic stem-cell aging are genetically regulated
Authors: Ertl Robin P. , Chen Jichun , Astle Clinton M. , Duffy Theodore M. , Harrison David E. 
Published: October 2007

AbstractDiminished stem-cell functions with age may be a major cause of anemias and other defects. Unfortunately, treatments that increase stem-cell function can also increase the incidence of cancers. Lifelong dietary restriction (DR) is known to decrease spontaneous cancers and lengthen lifespan. This study examines the effect of DR on the ability of bone marrow cells to repopulate irradiated recipients and produce erythrocytes and lymphocytes. In BALB/cByJ (BALB) mice, repopulating abilities decline with age; DR ameliorates this trend. In C57BL/6J (B6) and (BALB × B6) F1 hybrid (F1) mice, repopulating abilities increase with age; DR maintains this increase. Hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) numbers are highly variable in aged BALB mice; however, the observed loss of marrow function results from a major loss in repopulating ability per HSC. DR greatly ameliorates this loss of function with age. In contrast, function per HSC in B6 mice is affected neither by age nor by DR. Thus, DR increases or maintains increased marrow repopulating ability with age in the 3 different genotypes tested, but effects on function per HSC depend on genotype. That DR increases or maintains stem-cell function with age, while decreasing cancer, has far-reaching health implications.
Mesenchymal stem cells inhibit natural killer–cell proliferation, cytotoxicity, and cytokine production: role of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase and prostaglandin E2
Authors: Spaggiari Grazia Maria , Capobianco Andrea , Abdelrazik Heba , Becchetti Flavio , Mingari Maria Cristina , Moretta Lorenzo 
Published: October 2007

Abstract
Recently, a number of clinical trials used either mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) or natural killer (NK) cells in an attempt to improve the effectiveness of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). In view of the relevant role of both MSCs and NK cells in HSCT, we have recently explored the result of possible interactions between the 2 cell types. We found that activated NK cells could kill MSCs, whereas MSCs strongly inhibited interleukin-2 (IL-2)–induced NK-cell proliferation. In this study, we further analyzed the inhibitory effect exerted by MSCs on NK cells. We show that MSCs not only inhibit the cytokine-induced proliferation of freshly isolated NK cells but also prevent the induction of effector functions, such as cytotoxic activity and cytokine production. Moreover, we show that this inhibitory effect is related to a sharp down-regulation of the surface expression of the activating NK receptors NKp30, NKp44, and NKG2D. Finally, we demonstrate that indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase and prostaglandin E2 represent key mediators of the MSC-induced inhibition of NK cells.
Bortezomib down-regulates the cell-surface expression of HLA class I and enhances natural killer cell–mediated lysis of myeloma
Authors: Shi Jumei , Tricot Guido J. , Garg Tarun K. , Malaviarachchi Priyangi A. , Szmania Susann M. , Kellum Rachel E. , Storrie Brian , Mulder Arend , Shaughnessy John D. , Barlogie Bart , van Rhee Frits 
Published: October 2007

AbstractHuman leukocyte antigen class I molecules expressed by tumor cells play a central role in the regulation of natural killer (NK) cell–mediated immune responses. The proteasome inhibitor bortezomib has demonstrated significant activity in multiple myeloma (MM). We hypothesized that treatment of MM with bortezomib results in the reduction of cell-surface expression of class I and thereby sensitizes MM to NK cell–mediated lysis. Here we report that bortezomib down-regulates class I in a time- and dose-dependent fashion on all MM cell lines and patient MM cells tested. Downregulation of class I can also be induced in vivo after a single dose of 1.0 mg/m2 bortezomib. Bortezomib significantly enhances the sensitivity of patient myeloma to allogeneic and autologous NK cell–mediated lysis. Further, the level of decrease in class I expression correlates with increased susceptibility to lysis by NK cells. Clinically relevant bortezomib concentrations do not affect NK-cell function. Our findings have clear therapeutic implications for MM and other NK cell–sensitive malignancies in the context of both allogeneic and autologous adoptively transferred NK cells.