bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elders assessment of an evolving model of oral health
Authors: Brondani Mario A , Bryant S Ross , MacEntee Michael I
Published: November 2007

Objectives:  To evaluate qualitatively a model of oral health through focus groups among elders.

Methods:  The participants (30 women and 12 men; mean age: 75 years) attended one of six focus groups to discuss the relevance of the model to their oral health‐related beliefs and experiences, and transcripts of the narratives were analysed systematically for the components, associations and recommendations emerging from the discussions.

Results:  The groups confirmed the relevance of the original components of the model with minor modifications, but felt that for completeness it required four additional components: diet; economic priorities; personal expectations; and health values and beliefs. They recommended that the negative connotations of limited activity, impairment and restricted participation were modified with the positive terms activity and participation, and they suggested that ellipses rather than concentric circles more aptly illustrate the dynamic and overlapping importance of the various components in the model.

Conclusion:  The original model required additional components and graphic representation to accommodate all of the experiences and beliefs relating to the oral health of the elders who participated in this qualitative study.
OVERPAID ATHLETES? COMPARING AMERICAN AND EUROPEAN FOOTBALL
Authors: Simmons Rob
Published: November 2007

Sports fans often complain that the stars they watch are “overpaid” relative to their performance. This article examines this claim by analyzing the relationship between player pay and performance in two major sports: American Football and European football. The essay considers the structure of payment and the distribution of salaries revealing that the National Football League (NFL) has greater restrictions on its labor market than has European football. Since the NFL labor market is restrictive, many players have salaries that are below the amounts that they contribute to team revenues. In contrast, European football has a more open labor market with few restrictions and salaries of European footballers are broadly in line with performance and contribution to team revenues, although overpayment can still occur. In both types of football, growth and distribution of broadcast revenues are important factors determining player salaries. The gap between “superstars” and “journeymen” has widened in both NFL and European football and this poses questions for salary management in each sport.
Sexual Dysfunction and Associated Risk Factors in Women with End-Stage Renal Disease
Authors: Kettaş Elife , Çayan Filiz , Akbay Erdem , Kıykım Ahmet , Çayan Selahittin
Published: November 2007

Introduction

End-stage renal disease (ESRD) is a serious illness which has severe negative effects on patients' lives and quality of life.

Aims

To prospectively compare sexual functions between the women with ESRD and healthy women, and also to investigate risk factors that may cause sexual dysfunction in women with ESRD.

Methods

The study included 249 women, and the women were divided into two groups: 131 women with ESRD and 118 healthy women as a control group. After obtaining demographic characteristics, sexual function was evaluated with a detailed 19-item questionnaire (The Female Sexual Function Index [FSFI]) assessing sexual desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, and pain during sexual intercourse.

Main Outcome Measures

The FSFI scores were compared between the two groups, and risk factors that might cause sexual dysfunction were also investigated in the women with ESRD.

Results

The mean FSFI total score was significantly lower in the ESRD group (15.9 ± 10.4) than in the control group (22.2 ± 6.8) (P =0.001). The women with ESRD had also significantly lower mean score of sexual desire (P = 0.006), arousal (P = 0.001), lubrication (P =0.001), orgasm (P =0.001), satisfaction (P =0.001), and pain (P =0.024) than in the control group. To investigate risk factors for sexual dysfunction in the ESRD group, the women having hemodialysis, compared to the women having peritoneal dialysis, had a 5.23 times greater risk of developing sexual dysfunction (P = 0.001).

Conclusions

This study shows that women with ESRD have higher risk of sexual dysfunction than healthy women. Thus, women with ESRD should be consulted for sexual dysfunction to improve the quality of life.
CROSS‐NATIONAL DIFFERENCES IN RELATIONSHIPS OF WORK DEMANDS, JOB SATISFACTION, AND TURNOVER INTENTIONS WITH WORK–FAMILY CONFLICT
Authors: SPECTOR PAUL E. , ALLEN TAMMY D. , POELMANS STEVEN A. Y. , LAPIERRE LAURENT M. , COOPER CARY L. , MICHAEL O'DRISCOLL , SANCHEZ JUAN I. , ABARCA NUREYA , ALEXANDROVA MATILDA , BEHAM BARBARA , BROUGH PAULA , FERREIRO PABLO , FRAILE GUILLERMO , LU CHANG‐QIN , LU LUO , MORENO‐VELÁZQUEZ IVONNE , PAGON MILAN , PITARIU HOREA , SALAMATOV VOLODYMYR , SHIMA SATORU , SUAREZ SIMONI ALEJANDRA , LING SIU OI , WIDERSZAL‐BAZYL MARIA
Published: November 2007

A study of work interference with family (WIF) among managers is described, contrasting four clusters of countries, one of which is individualistic (Anglo) and three of which are collectivistic (Asia, East Europe, and Latin America). Country cluster (Anglo vs. each of the others) moderated the relation of work demands with strain‐based WIF, with the Anglo country cluster having the strongest relationships. Country cluster moderated some of the relationships of strain‐based WIF with both job satisfaction and turnover intentions, with Anglos showing the strongest relationships. Cluster differences in domestic help were ruled out as the possible explanation for these moderator results.
Potential of partial rootzone drying as an alternative irrigation technique for potatoes (Solanum tuberosum)
Authors: Saeed H. , Grove I.G. , Kettlewell P.S. , Hall N.W.
Published: November 2007

The increasing demands on limited water supplies worldwide require the adoption of more efficient irrigation techniques for sustainable production in agriculture. Partial rootzone drying (PRD) is one of the techniques that offer potential saving of irrigation water. This technique involves alternate irrigation to two sides of a plant root system. The studies reported here investigated PRD irrigation regimes and the optimum time of starting PRD in potatoes grown in a protected environment. In the first experiment, plants of the potato cv. Estima were exposed to five different irrigation treatments and a fully watered control at tuber initiation. The treatment that performed most similar to the control was alternate PRD to field capacity (APRD100). This treatment produced similar total leaf area, haulm fresh and dry weights, plant water status and no significant yield reduction compared with the control plants. The APRD100 treatment utilised 29% less water and increased water use efficiency (WUE) by 19%. In the second experiment, the APRD100 irrigation was started at 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 weeks after plant emergence. Vegetative growth and yield increased with the delay of the APRD100. APRD100 started at 6 weeks after emergence did not significantly reduce fresh tuber yield but received 21% less total water with a 19% increase in WUE. The results indicate that PRD may have potential use in the potato crop for conserving irrigation water with minimal loss of yield.
Characterizing Vagueness
Authors: Eklund Matti
Published: November 2007

This article focuses on the question of what characterizes vagueness (in the sense of ‘vague’ relevant to philosophical discussions of vagueness). It is shown how this question differs from other questions in the vagueness literature, such as those of how the sorites paradox can be solved, what the logic of vagueness is, and what sort of indeterminacy vagueness is associated with. Recent work on the topic, including work by Patrick Greenough, Nicholas Smith, Brian Weatherson, and Matti Eklund, is discussed.
Anovulvar cleft and vaginal prolapse‐hyperplasia in a bitch
Authors: Mostachio G. Q. , Vicente W. R. R. , Cardilli D. J. , Pires E. A. , Toniollo G. H.
Published: November 2007

This report presents the case of a nine‐month‐old bitch with incomplete occlusion of the skin and mucosa between the anus and dorsal commissure of the vulva. This anomaly, known as anovulvar cleft, was associated with a vaginal prolapse‐hyperplasia. Anovulvar cleft is a rare condition in bitches and is caused by incomplete closure of the dorsal urogenital folds. Anovulvar cleft can lead to clitoritis, abrasion, dryness and devitalisation of the smooth exposed mucosa. Surgery can correct the condition. In the present study, surgical resection of the hyperplasic vaginal tissue associated with perineoplasty using an inverted V‐shaped incision showed excellent results. An ovariohysterectomy was also performed to prevent recurrence of the vaginal prolapse‐hyperplasia.
Prediction of future development of canine atopic dermatitis based on examination of clinical history
Authors: Fraser M. A. , McNeil P. E. , Girling S. J.
Published: November 2007

Objectives:  The aim of this study was to identify clinical features that could be used to identify individual dogs within the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association canine population at risk of being diagnosed as atopic in the future before they had fully developed the condition.

Methods:  Clinical histories of atopic and non‐atopic dogs from the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association population were analysed and statistically significant differences identified between the two groups.

Results:  Atopic dogs were consistently affected by skin disease at a younger age than non‐atopic dogs and that there was a significant difference in event curves between atopic and non‐atopic dogs at 10 months of age. From a predictive point of view, dogs that suffered from four or more episodes of atopic‐type skin disease by the age of 15 months were at an increased risk of developing atopic dermatitis.

Clinical Significance:  It is suggested that the clinical history of all dogs from the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association about to undergo training should be examined for these factors to assess whether or not they should undergo training.
Acute gaseous peritonitis after rupture of a retroperitoneal rectal diverticulum in a dog
Authors: Saulnier‐Troff F. G. , De Busscher V. , Hamaide A.
Published: November 2007

An 11‐year‐old, entire male coton de tulear was presented on emergency with acute and severe depression, acute abdominal pain and vomiting of 24 hours duration. Historical complaints included right perineal swelling, dyschezia and tenesmus of 18 months duration. Abdominal ultrasonography and radiography suggested a pneumoperitoneum and positive‐contrast colonography showed leakage of contrast medium into the caudal abdomen and the presence of a large retroperitoneal pouch. Exploratory laparotomy allowed the visualisation of faecal leakage from the retroperitoneal space into the peritoneal cavity. Using a perineal approach, a large necrotised rectal diverticulum filled with faeces was found over the retroperitoneal structures. A standard herniorrhaphy was then performed. The dog recovered uneventfully and dyschezia did not recur at the nine month follow‐up. Rectal diverticulum rupture associated with peritonitis has not been described in the veterinary literature, to the authors’ knowledge, and should be considered as a rare differential diagnosis in dogs being presented with gaseous peritonitis.
The World the Students Made: Agriculture and Education at American Missions in Colonial Zimbabwe, 1930–1960
Authors: Leedy Todd H.
Published: November 2007

In 1930, the same year in which the segregationist Land Apportionment Act was passed, the governor of Rhodesia addressed a meeting of representatives from the various missionary organizations operating in the colony. He proceeded to argue against the sort of education that might create a class of African intellectuals who would eventually challenge white economic and political dominance:

The nature of the intellectual advance to be aimed at should be one of which advantage can be taken in the ordinary daily lives of the people, and should be a step forward in a field already familiar to them, rather than a violent transition into fields which belong to a different type of civilization. As the life of African peoples is to a preponderating extent agricultural, education should aim at making them better agriculturalists and better able to appreciate all the natural processes with which agriculture is connected.
Is Character Fate, or Is There Hope to Change My Personality Yet?
Authors: Edmonds Grant W. , Jackson Joshua J. , Fayard Jennifer V. , Roberts Brent W.
Published: November 2007

Different perspectives on personality development propose a range of possible degrees to which traits are free to change, from hardly at all to very much. This essay reviews the empirical evidence on just how consistent and changeable personality traits are across the life course. To gain a thorough perspective on personality trait development, we review developmental studies that focus on three different types of change: rank‐order consistency, mean level change, and individual level change. Starting in late childhood, personality traits exhibit modest levels of rank‐order consistency that increase with age. In addition personality traits show mean level changes, especially in young adulthood, that are consistent with the idea of increasing maturity. Finally, despite these general trends in personality continuity and change, there is evidence that individuals may change in ways that contradict general trends and that these individual differences in change are related to life experiences.
Closing in: Stalking in the Context of Intimate Partner Abuse
Authors: Melton Heather C.
Published: November 2007

This article reviews the literature on stalking in the context of intimate partner abuse (IPA). It is now known that stalking is most common among people who know each other, with a high prevalence among current and former intimates. Moreover, there is a strong correlation between stalking and IPA, both physical violence and emotional abuse. This is referred to as stalking in the context of IPA. This type of stalking differs from other types in terms of its nature, prevalence, and effects. In addition, there are differences among intimate partner stalkers as well. Future research needs to focus on this type of stalking and explore theories behind why it is occurring and ways we should be responding to and treating it.
Social Movements Research and the ‘Movement of Movements’: Studying Resistance to Neoliberal Globalisation
Authors: Cox Laurence , Nilsen Alf Gunvald
Published: November 2007

This article explores the state of research on the ‘movement of movements’ against neoliberal globalisation. Starting from a general consideration of the significance of the movement and the difficulties inherent in studying it, it discusses the literature on the movement from within social movement studies, and argues that the response from social movement researchers falls short of what could be expected in terms of adequacy to the movement and its own knowledge production. It explores some effects of this failure and locates the reasons for it in the unacknowledged relationship between social movements theorising and activist theorising. The article then discusses the possible contributions that can be made by Marxist and other engaged academic writers, as well as the significance of the extensive theoretical literature generated by activists within the movement. It concludes by stating the importance of dialogue between activist and academic theorising and research in attempting to understand the movement.
Adrenergic regulation of a key cardiac potassium channel can contribute to atrial fibrillation: evidence from an IKs transgenic mouse
Authors: Sampson Kevin J. , Terrenoire Cecile , Cervantes Daniel O. , Kaba Riyaz A. , Peters Nicholas S. , Kass Robert S.
Published: November 2007

Inherited gain‐of‐function mutations of genes coding for subunits of the heart slow potassium (IKs) channel can cause familial atrial fibrillation (AF). Here we consider a potentially more prevalent mechanism and hypothesize that β‐adrenergic receptor (β‐AR)‐mediated regulation of the IKs channel, a natural gain‐of‐function pathway, can also lead to AF. Using a transgenic IKs channel mouse model, we studied the role of the channel and its regulation by β‐AR stimulation on atrial arrhythmias. In vivo administration of isoprenaline (isoproterenol) predisposes IKs channel transgenic mice but not wild‐type (WT) littermates that lack IKs to prolonged atrial arrhythmias. Patch‐clamp analysis demonstrated expression and isoprenaline‐mediated regulation of IKs in atrial myocytes from transgenic but not WT littermates. Furthermore, computational modelling revealed that β‐AR stimulation‐dependent accumulation of open IKs channels accounts for the pro‐arrhythmic substrate. Our results provide evidence that β‐AR‐regulated IKs channels can play a role in AF and imply that specific IKs deregulation, perhaps through disruption of the IKs macromolecular complex necessary for β‐AR‐mediated IKs channel regulation, may be a novel therapeutic strategy for treating this most common arrhythmia.
The tumour‐suppressor p53 is not required for pancreatic β cell death during diabetes and upon irradiation
Authors: Nam Shin Yuen , Lee Ming Kei , Sabapathy Kanaga
Published: November 2007

Immune‐independent diabetes often occurs via pancreatic β cell dysfunction. However, the role of the tumour suppressor p53 that regulates cellular life and death in multiple tissues, in pancreatic cell death and diabetes has not been clarified. We have therefore utilized an established mouse model for diabetes in which the MHC class I antigen is overexpressed in pancreatic β cells under the rat insulin promoter, to investigate the role of p53. We show that pancreatic β cell death, as determined by TUNEL staining, is elevated in transgenic mice compared to wild‐type mice. However, there was no increase in immuno‐reactivity towards anti‐p53 antibodies in the pancreas of transgenic mice over the course of diabetes formation and β cell death, suggesting that p53 may not be involved in these processes. Interestingly, p53 expression was also not induced in pancreas upon γ‐irradiation, which resulted in a massive increase in the number of TUNEL‐positive cells, suggesting that the p53 pathway may not be causally involved in pancreatic cell death. To further confirm these findings, we generated MHC class I transgenic mice lacking p53 expression. Absence of p53 did not result in any significant changes in pancreatic morphology or affect cell death levels. Importantly, p53 absence did not rescue the diabetic phenotype of the transgenic mice. The results therefore demonstrate that p53 may not be causally involved in pancreatic β cell death, and suggests that the classical cell death pathway dependent on p53 may not be operating in pancreatic β cells.
Premotor interneurones contributing to actions of feline pyramidal tract neurones on ipsilateral hindlimb motoneurones
Authors: Stecina K. , Jankowska E. , Cabaj A. , Pettersson L.‐G. , Bannatyne B. A. , Maxwell D. J.
Published: November 2007

The aim of the study was to analyse the potential contribution of excitatory and inhibitory premotor interneurones in reflex pathways from muscle afferents to actions of pyramidal tract (PT) neurones on ipsilateral hindlimb motoneurones. Disynaptic EPSPs and IPSPs evoked in motoneurones in deeply anaesthetized cats by group Ia, Ib and II muscle afferents were found to be facilitated by stimulation of the ipsilateral, as well as of contralateral, PT. The ipsilateral actions were evoked by either uncrossed or double‐crossed pathways. The results show that interneurones mediating reflex actions of muscle afferents may be activated strongly enough by PT stimulation to contribute to movements initiated by ipsilateral PT neurones and that PT actions relayed by them might be enhanced by muscle stretches and/or contractions. However, in some motoneurones disynaptic IPSPs and EPSPs evoked from group Ib or II afferents were depressed by PT stimulation. In order to analyse the basis of this depression, the transmitter content in terminals of 11 intracellularly labelled interneurones excited by PT stimulation was defined immunohistochemically and their axonal projections were reconstructed. The interneurones included 9 glycinergic and 2 glutamatergic neurones. All but one of these neurones were mono‐ or disynaptically excited by group I and/or II afferents. Several projected to motor nuclei and formed contacts with motoneurones. However, all had terminal projections to areas outside the motor nuclei. Therefore both inhibitory and excitatory interneurones could modulate responses of other premotor interneurones in parallel with direct actions on motoneurones.
Performance and Combustion Analysis of a Micro Gas Turbine–Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Hybrid System
Authors: Cameretti Maria Cristina , Pontecorvo Antonino , Tuccillo Raffaele
Published: November 2007

An integrated methodology aims at estimation of the actual possibility of operating an hybrid system based on a solid oxide fuel cell and a micro gas turbine, by paying special attention to the adaptation of the rotating and stationary components to the off-design conditions. The method leads to the definition of the operating space of the hybrid system, thus allowing detection of optimal choices for an efficient part-load operation. The computational fluid dynamics (CFD)-based analysis of the combustion chamber is addressed to the verification of the response of this component when employed as an afterburner of the residual species from the fuel cell.
Detailed Simulation of the Ohmic Resistance of Solid Oxide Fuel Cells
Authors: Repetto Laura , Agnew Gerry , Del Borghi Adriana , Di Benedetto Fabio , Costamagna Paola
Published: November 2007

A theoretical evaluation of the ohmic resistance of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) is very important because internal ohmic resistances account for a large part of the losses occurring in SOFCs and significantly affect cell performance. However, in the majority of cases, a detailed evaluation of ohmic losses is not an elementary task, since the structure of the geometry makes it difficult to apply simple laws, such as R=ρl∕S. The solution of a PDE equation is required, which has to be performed numerically. In this paper, two different numerical approaches have been applied to the simulation of the internal ohmic resistances of basic SOFC units, and the results have been compared. In particular, the commercial mathematical software FEMLAB and MATLAB have been used to implement the different numerical approaches. The agreement between the obtained results is very good.
Modeling and Simulation of an Indirect Diesel Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) System for a Marine Application
Authors: Virji M. B. V. , Adcock P. L. , Moore R. M. , Lakeman J. B.
Published: November 2007

A dynamic simulation of a PEMFC hybrid system has been developed in a MATLAB/SIMULINK environment to study the component interactions between a diesel fuel processor, a PEMFC system, a compressor/expander system, and a battery pack. Each subsystem has been modeled using its fundamental reactions or processes. The simulation also allows subsystem performance to be analyzed and control strategies to be developed and tested for a range of configurations. This paper describes the models used in the dynamic simulation tool and how these models are programmed and implemented in the MATLAB/SIMULINK environment. The paper also presents the results from a study of a PEMFC marine system as an auxiliary power source for a ship hotel load to illustrate the capability of the simulation tool. The analysis focuses on the effect of using a 1.5MWe fuel cell stack and a diesel fuel processor with 36 tonnes of high-temperature LAIS (lithium-aluminium/iron sulphide) battery pack (2.88MWh) on the performance of the system under the hotel load duty cycle. A steady-state analysis was performed for the average system power of 1.5MWe, and the results of steady state calculations are also presented.
GEOMAG™ Paradoxes
Authors: Defrancesco Silvia , Logiurato Fabrizio , Karwasz Grzegorz
Published: November 2007

As often happens, a lot of physics can come out of a toy. What we found interesting is the observation of the magnetic field produced by different configurations built with GEOMAG.™1 This toy provides small magnetic bars and steel spheres to play with. Amusing 3-D structures can be built; nevertheless, this possibility is not so obvious. Indeed, in order to build a solid figure it is necessary to join at least three bars to a sphere, and therefore at least two of the poles attached to the sphere present the same polarity, but opposite poles should attract and similar poles should repel. To understand what happens, it is helpful to consider simpler configurations.
Studying the Effects of Nuclear Weapons Using a Slide-Rule Computer
Authors: Shastri Ananda
Published: November 2007

This paper describes the construction of a slide-rule computer that allows one to quickly determine magnitudes of several effects that result from the detonation of a nuclear device. Suggestions for exercises are also included that allow high school and college-level physics students to explore scenarios involving these effects. It is hoped that discussing the effects objectively will inform students and allow them to make sound judgments on issues concerning nuclear weapons. The material in this paper was presented to high school students in a day-long activity session hosted by the author's university.
Comment on "Origin of Human Bipedalism As an Adaptation for Locomotion on Flexible Branches"
Authors: Begun D. R. , Richmond B. G. , Strait D. S.
Published: November 2007

Thorpe
et al
. (Reports, 1 June 2007, p. 1328) concluded that human bipedalism evolved from a type of bipedal posture they observed in extant orangutans with seemingly human-like extended knees. However, humans share knuckle-walking characters with African apes that are absent in orangutans. These are most parsimoniously explained by positing a knuckle-walking precursor to human bipedalism.
Promotion of Tissue Inflammation by the Immune Receptor Tim-3 Expressed on Innate Immune Cells
Authors: Anderson Ana C. , Anderson David E. , Bregoli Lisa , Hastings William D. , Kassam Nasim , Lei Charles , Chandwaskar Rucha , Karman Jozsef , Su Ee W. , Hirashima Mitsuomi , Bruce Jeffrey N. , Kane Lawrence P. , Kuchroo Vijay K. , Hafler David A.
Published: November 2007

CD4
+
T helper 1 (T
H
1) cells are important mediators of inflammation and are regulated by numerous pathways, including the negative immune receptor Tim-3. We found that Tim-3 is constitutively expressed on cells of the innate immune system in both mice and humans, and that it can synergize with Toll-like receptors. Moreover, an antibody agonist of Tim-3 acted as an adjuvant during induced immune responses, and Tim-3 ligation induced distinct signaling events in T cells and dendritic cells; the latter finding could explain the apparent divergent functions of Tim-3 in these cell types. Thus, by virtue of differential expression on innate versus adaptive immune cells, Tim-3 can either promote or terminate T
H
1 immunity and may be able to influence a range of inflammatory conditions.
Generation and Photonic Guidance of Multi-Octave Optical-Frequency Combs
Authors: Couny F. , Benabid F. , Roberts P. J. , Light P. S. , Raymer M. G.
Published: November 2007

Ultrabroad coherent comb-like optical spectra spanning several octaves are a chief ingredient in the emerging field of attoscience. We demonstrate generation and guidance of a three-octave spectral comb, spanning wavelengths from 325 to 2300 nanometers, in a hydrogen-filled hollow-core photonic crystal fiber. The waveguidance results not from a photonic band gap but from the inhibited coupling between the core and cladding modes. The spectrum consists of up to 45 high-order Stokes and anti-Stokes lines and is generated by driving the confined gas with a single, moderately powerful (10-kilowatt) infrared laser, producing 12-nanosecond-duration pulses. This represents a reduction by six orders of magnitude in the required laser powers over previous equivalent techniques and opens up a robust and much simplified route to synthesizing attosecond pulses.
Elevated Frequency of Gamma Interferon-Producing NK Cells in Healthy Adults Vaccinated against Influenza Virus
Authors: Long Brian R. , Michaelsson Jakob , Loo Christopher P. , Ballan Wassim M. , Vu Bien-Aimee N. , Hecht Frederick M. , Lanier Lewis L. , Chapman Joan M. , Nixon Douglas F.
Published: November 2007

Recent studies indicate that innate immunity in influenza virus infection is an area of substantial importance for our understanding of influenza virus pathogenesis, yet our knowledge of the mechanisms controlling innate immunity remains limited. Further delineation of the roles of NK cells and innate immunity in viral infection may have important implications for the development of improved influenza virus vaccines. In this study, we evaluated the phenotype and function of NK and T lymphocytes, as well as influenza virus-specific immunoglobulin G production, prior to and following vaccination with the routinely administered trivalent influenza virus vaccine. We demonstrate influenza virus antigen-specific innate and adaptive cellular responses and evaluate changes in NK cell receptor expression over time. Our results demonstrate increased innate and adaptive cellular immune responses and show that NK cells are a significant source of gamma interferon (IFN-γ) following influenza virus vaccination. An increase in the frequency of IFN-γ-producing NK cells was observed in many subjects postvaccination. The subset distribution with respect to CD56
dim
and CD56
bright
NK cell subsets remained stable, as did the NK cell phenotype with respect to expression of cell surface activating and inhibitory receptors. These results may form the basis for further investigations of the role of NK cells in immunity to influenza.
Relationship of autofluorescent and ultraviolet-absorbing components in cell walls and wall appositions to disease resistance in kohlrabi roots
Authors: Aist James R. , Israel Herbert W.
Published: November 2007

It has been shown that wound plugs induced mechanically by bending of kohlrabi root hairs are more resistant to subsequent penetration attempts by Olpidium brassicae than are papillae induced by the fungus. A histochemical, autofluorescence, and ultraviolet-microspectrophotometric study was undertaken to determine if a differential composition of phenolic derivatives could explain this difference in resistance. Phenolics in the secondary wall thickenings of xylem vessel elements of roots were distinct from those in wound plugs, papillae, and root hair cell walls. But phenolics in wound plugs and papillae could not be distinguished from each other by the methods employed. Thus, the results do not support the hypothesis that wound plugs are more resistant to penetration than are papillae because they contain phenolic derivatives not found in the latter. However, the possibility that an earlier deposition of phenolics in wound plugs accounts for their greater resistance to penetration has not been ruled out.
Development of a multiplex polymerase chain reaction for detection and typing of major human herpesviruses in cerebrospinal fluid
Authors: Bergallo Massimiliano , Costa Cristina , Margio Samuela , Sidoti Francesca , Terlizzi Maria Elena , Cavallo Rossana
Published: November 2007

Infections of the central nervous system (CNS) represent a difficult diagnostic problem for both clinicians and microbiologists. In particular, the Herpesviridae family plays a central etiological role in CNS viral infections. These diseases have acquired growing importance in the past few years owing to the increasing number of immunocompromised patients and the availability of new antiviral drugs. Prompt detection and diagnosis of CNS viral infections are critical because most infections are treatable, while a delayed recognition may lead to life-threatening conditions or severe sequelae. The traditional methods for detection of herpesviruses in CNS infections exhibit several drawbacks, whereas the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on cerebrospinal fluid has revolutionized the neurovirology and is becoming an essential part of the diagnostic work-up of patients with suspected CNS viral infections. A sensitive multiplex PCR method was developed for the simultaneous detection of 6 human herpesviruses (human cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex virus 1, herpes simplex virus 2, Epstein–Barr virus, varicella-zoster virus, and human herpesvirus 6) with the aim of simplifying detection and reducing time and costs. The accuracy, reproducibility, specificity, and sensitivity of these assays were established.
Preliminary investigations on inducing salt tolerance in maize through inoculation with rhizobacteria containing ACC deaminase activity
Authors: Nadeem Sajid Mahmood , Zahir Zahir Ahmad , Naveed Muhammad , Arshad Muhammad
Published: November 2007

Twenty rhizobacterial strains containing 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate deaminase were isolated from the rhizosphere of salt-affected maize fields. They were screened for their growth-promoting activities under axenic conditions at 1, 4, 8, and 12 dS·m–1salinity levels. Based upon the data of the axenic study, the 6 most effective strains were selected to conduct pot trials in the wire house. Besides one original salinity level (1.6 dS·m–1), 3 other salinity levels (4, 8, and 12 dS·m–1) were maintained in pots and maize seeds inoculated with selected strains of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria, as well as uninoculated controls were sown. Results showed that the increase in salinity level decreased the growth of maize seedlings. However, inoculation with rhizobacterial strains reduced this depression effect and improved the growth and yield at all the salinity levels tested. Selected strains significantly increased plant height, root length, total biomass, cob mass, and grain yield up to 82%, 93%, 51%, 40%, and 50%, respectively, over respective uninoculated controls at the electrical conductivity of 12 dS·m–1. Among various plant growth-promoting rhizobacterial strains, S5 ( Pseudomonas syringae ), S14 ( Enterobacter aerogenes ), and S20 ( Pseudomonas fluorescens ) were the most effective strains for promoting the growth and yield of maize, even at high salt stress. The relatively better salt tolerance of inoculated plants was associated with a high K+/Na+ratio as well as high relative water and chlorophyll and low proline contents.
Bacterial endophytes contribute to abiotic stress adaptation in pepper plants (Capsicum annuumL.)
Authors: Sziderics A. H. , Rasche F. , Trognitz F. , Sessitsch A. , Wilhelm E.
Published: November 2007

Endophytes are nonpathogenic plant-associated bacteria that can play an important role in plant vitality and may confer resistance to abiotic or biotic stress. The effects of 5 endophytic bacterial strains isolated from pepper plants showing 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate deaminase activity were studied in sweet pepper under in vitro conditions. Four of the strains tested showed production of indole acetic acid. Plant growth, osmotic potential, free proline content, and gene expression were monitored in leaves and roots under control and mild osmotic stress conditions. All indole acetate producers promoted growth in Capsicum annuum L. ‘Ziegenhorn Bello’, from which they were isolated. Osmotic stress caused an increase in the content of free proline in the leaves of both inoculated and noninoculated plants. Inoculated control plants also revealed higher proline levels in comparison with noninoculated control plants. Differential gene expression patterns of CaACCO, CaLTPI, CaSAR82A, and putative P5CR and P5CS genes during moderate stress were observed, depending on the bacterium applied. Inoculation with 2 bacterial strains, EZB4 and EZB8 ( Arthrobacter sp. and Bacillus sp., respectively), resulted in a significantly reduced upregulation or even downregulation of the stress-inducible genes CaACCO and CaLTPI, as compared with the gene expression in noninoculated plants. This indicates that both strains reduced abiotic stress in pepper under the conditions tested.
Source tracking ofEscherichia coliby 16S–23S intergenic spacer region denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) of therrnBribosomal operon
Authors: D’Elia Thomas V. , Cooper Chester R. , Johnston Carl G.
Published: November 2007

This research validates a novel approach for source tracking based on denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) analysis of DNA extracted from Escherichia coli isolates. Escherichia coli from different animal sources and from river samples upstream from, at, and downstream of a combined sewer overflow were subjected to DGGE to determine sequence variations within the 16S–23S intergenic spacer region (ISR) of the rrnB ribosomal operon. The ISR was analyzed to determine if E. coli isolates from various animal sources could be differentiated from each other. DNA isolated from the E. coli animal sources was PCR amplified to isolate the rrnB operon. To prevent amplification of all 7 E. coli ribosomal operons by PCR amplification using universal primers, sequence-specific primers were utilized for the rrnB operon. Another primer set was then used to prepare samples of the 16S–23S ISR for DGGE. Comparison of PCR–DGGE results between human and animal sources revealed differences in the distribution and frequency of the DGGE bands produced. Human and Canada Goose isolates had the most unique distribution patterns and the highest percent of unique isolates and were grouped separately from all other animal sources. Method validation suggests that there are enough host specificity and genetic differences for use in the field. Field results at and around a combined sewer overflow indicate that this method can be used for microbial source tracking.
Modulation of Congo-red-induced aberrations in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae by the general stress response protein Hsp12p
Authors: Karreman Robert J. , Lindsey George G.
Published: November 2007

Previous studies have shown that in Saccharomyces cerevisiae HSP12, which codes for the small cell wall heat shock protein Hsp12p, was induced upon exposure to cell-wall-damaging agents such as Congo red. Here, we demonstrate that Hsp12p decreases the interaction between Congo red and chitin. A Δhsp12 mutant strain displayed decreased viability, increased aggregation and sedimentation, as well as an altered morphology when grown in the presence of Congo red dye. The presence of Hsp12p was also necessary for the Congo-red-mediated invasion of agar plates.
Possible requirement of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 for invasion of gingival epithelial cells byTreponema medium
Authors: Tamai Riyoko , Asai Yasuyuki , Kawabata Atsushi , Akisaka Toshitaka , Ogawa Tomohiko
Published: November 2007

Oral treponemes are members of the spirochete family of bacteria associated with periodontal diseases. In the present study, we demonstrate that intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) on human gingival epithelial cells (HGEC) contributed to the invasion of Treponema medium , a medium-sized oral Treponema, into those cells. The quantity of T. medium in HGEC was found to peak at 2 h after inoculation and then decreased gradually. Immunofluorescence microscopy findings showed that the bacteria were colocalized with ICAM-1 on HGEC. Furthermore, knockdown of ICAM-1 in HGEC resulted in inhibition of T. medium invasion by RNA interference, whereas that of Toll-like receptor 2 did not. These results suggest that ICAM-1 may be required for the invasion of T. medium into HGEC, and they indicate that the molecule plays a principal role in the primary stages of the development and progression of chronic periodontitis.
Merchantable timber volume estimation using cross-sectional photogrammetric and densitometric methods
Authors: Maclean Gordon A. , Martin George L.
Published: November 2007

A procedure is described for estimating timber volume from high-precision measurement of the cross-sectional area of a canopy profile on medium-scale vertical aerial photographs. Timber volume data were obtained from 75 data points in a study area containing several forest types, and canopy profile areas were measured with a stereoplotter at the corresponding points on the aerial photographs. Film density values were also measured along each profile using a scanning microdensitometer. Canopy profile area was found to be independent of the direction of the profile relative to the flight line of the photography. The relation between timber volume and profile area was found to be highly significant, semilogarithmic, and species dependent, with regression R2 values ranging from 0.67 to 0.79. The area under a curve obtained by plotting film density values is not sufficiently correlated with timber volume to be a significant independent variable, either alone or with profile area. However, film density information was found to be of significant value in correcting the profile areas for canopy microopenings too small to be measured with a stereoplotter. With the area of microopenings included as a separate independent variable, regression R2 values range from 0.82 to 0.88.
Effects of ectomycorrhizae and solution pH on [15N]ammonium uptake by coniferous seedlings
Authors: Rygiewicz Paul T. , Bledsoe Caroline S. , Zasoski Robert J.
Published: November 2007

Effects of mycorrhizae and solution pH on ammonium uptake and fluxes of hydrogen, calcium, and potassium in solution culture were determined using three Northwest coniferous species: Douglas-fir (Pseudotsugamenziesii (Mirb.) Franco), Sitka spruce (Piceasitchensis (Bong.) Carr.), and western hemlock (Tsugaheterophylla (Raf.) Sarg.). The ectomycorrhizal fungus was Hebelomacrustuliniforme (Bull, ex St. Amans) Quel. Ammonium uptake rates decreased with decreasing pH and were accompanied by decreasing H+ release to the external solution. The mycorrhizal fungus H. crustuliniforme enhanced ammonium uptake and generally released fewer hydrogen ions per ammonium ion taken up than did nonmycorrhizal roots. This altered stoichiometry in mycorrhizal seedlings could mediate pH changes in the rhizosphere of soil-grown plants. During ammonium uptake, calcium ions were released at low pH and taken up at higher pH. Potassium efflux occurred at all hydrogen levels, with less efflux at higher pH. The mycorrhizal association generally increased calcium uptake or decreased calcium and potassium efflux rates compared with nonmycorrhizal seedlings. This research demonstrates that the ectomycorrhizal fungus Hebelomacrustuliniforme can significantly improve ammonium acquisition, a major growth-limiting nutrient in most Pacific Northwest forests, and that pH strongly affects ammonium uptake.
Variation in the amount of foliage on woody shoots and its effects on water relations parameters derived from pressure–volume curves
Authors: Neufeld Howard S. , Teskey Robert O.
Published: November 2007

The interpretation of pressure–volume curves for woody plant material is complicated by the use of foliated twigs to derive estimates of the water relations parameters of just the foliage. In this study, the ratio of foliage to twig water in shoots of loblolly pine (Pinustaeda) was varied systematically by defoliating twigs to varying degrees prior to constructing pressure–volume curves. Results show that variation in the ratio of foliage to twig water can influence interpretation of the curves. Reducing the amount of foliage causes decreases in the estimates of apoplasmic water content. Estimates of osmotic potential at full turgor and water potential at turgor loss were less affected. When foliated and fully defoliated twigs were compared, foliated twigs had lower water potentials at the same relative water contents. This may partially explain some of the differences in the parameter estimates among the treatments. If care is taken to avoid large differences in relative foliage weight, twigs can be used to estimate water relations characteristics of the foliage. For loblolly pine though, estimates of apoplasmic water content in twigs will be lower than in single fascicles. If single fascicles are used, more samples will have to be taken to obtain the same degree of confidence about the mean as for twigs, since the coefficient of variation is higher.
Forest floor dynamics in a chronosequence of hardwood stands in central Nova Scotia
Authors: Wallace E. S. , Freedman B.
Published: November 2007

A postclear-cutting chronosequence of hardwood stands in Nova Scotia was examined for patterns of forest floor weight, concentration of selected nutrients, rate of potential insitu litter decomposition (litterbags), and potential lab ammonification and nitrification. Some evidence was found that the forest floor experiences weight loss following clear-cutting. However, the large weight losses and clear pattern of recovery described by others for New Hampshire hardwood chronosequences were not observed. The lack of close agreement may have been a result of intra- and inter-stand variation in forest floor weight in our study. This spatial variation was greater than any effect as a result of clear-cutting. There was no significant relationship between insitu weight loss of leaves or twigs with stand age. No clear-cutting effect was observed in the laboratory for potential ammonification, which occurred readily in all stands (three clear-cuttings, three mature stands). Limed materials produced significantly more mineralized N (nitrate N + ammonium N) than did unlimed materials. Concentrations of ammonium N in F and H horizon field material were significantly higher on clear-cuttings than in mature stands. However, since this measurement reflects net rather than total production, it is not evidence that higher rates of ammonification occurred on clear-cuttings. Potential nitrification was not an important process in F and H horizon materials at their natural pH. Nitrification occurred readily in limed materials, but there were no significant differences among different aged stands. Concentrations of nitrate N in field F and H horizon material were low for all stands, with a mean of 9 ± 7 ppm (n = 350). However, in 7% of field samples, nitrate N ≥ 15 ppm was found; in 2%, ≥30 ppm was found.
Variation in wood structure of white fir along an elevational transect
Authors: Dodd Richard S. , Power Ariel B.
Published: November 2007

Several wood structural characteristics were measured in 15-year-old Abiesconcolor (white fir) from four populations along an elevational transect in the central Sierra Nevada region. The trees had been growing in a plantation near Placerville, California. Growth rings were narrower at breast height, latewood percentage tended to be greater, and tracheids were shorter in trees from higher elevation populations. Proportion of family variance components was greater than population for specific gravity and spiral grain angle. The characteristics that showed greatest population components of variation would be largely determined by durations and rates of shoot and radial growth. Presumably, length of the growing season would exert stronger selection pressure on these variables than on other characteristics of wood structure.
Compatible cubic volume and basal area equations for red pine plantations
Authors: Reed David D. , Jones Elizabeth A. , Bottenfield Timothy R. , Trettin Carl C.
Published: November 2007

Compatible equations for projecting total cubic volume, merchantable cubic volume to any top diameter limit, quadratic mean stand diameter, and basal area per hectare are given for red pine plantations. A ratio method is used for estimating merchantable volume. The system of equations is developed and tested using data from plantations in upper Michigan.