bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Calcium Silicate on Growth, Physiological Parameters and Mineral Nutrition in Two Legume Species Under Salt Stress
Authors: Murillo‐Amador B. , Yamada S. , Yamaguchi T. , Rueda‐Puente E. , Ávila‐Serrano N. , García‐Hernández J. L. , López‐Aguilar R. , Troyo‐Diéguez E. , Nieto‐Garibay A.
Published: September 2007

Cowpea and kidney bean plants were grown in a hydroponic system, and the effect of calcium silicate supplied to the nutrient solution under salt stress was investigated. The plants were subjected to four different treatments: (1) nutrient solution alone (C), (2) nutrient solution + 40 mmol l−1 NaCl (NaCl), (3) nutrient solution + 40 mmol l−1 NaCl + 0.5 mmol l−1 CaSiO3 (NaCl + Si1) and (4) nutrient solution + 40 mmol l−1 NaCl+1 mmol l−1 CaSiO3 (NaCl + Si2). The results showed that, in both species, salinity reduced all growth variables but silicate supplementation however partly overcame this growth reduction. Addition of silicate in NaCl‐stressed plants maintained membrane permeability. Net photosynthesis, chlorophyll content, stomatal conductance and transpiration were higher in plants under control treatment, and the inclusion of silicate in the nutrient solution resulted in a slight increase in these plant parameters. Intercellular CO2 was slightly higher in plants under silicate treatment than in plants under control or NaCl treatment. Calcium concentration in shoots and roots in both species was slightly higher in the treatments where silicate was added. Potassium concentration for salt treatment was reduced in shoot and root of both species in the absence of silicate. Sodium and chloride concentration in shoots and roots in both species were slightly higher in the presence of NaCl and were slightly reduced in the plants under silicate treatments. The results suggest that, in hydroponically grown plants, the inclusion of silicate in the nutrient solution is beneficial because it improves growth, physiological parameters and may contribute to a more balanced nutrition by enhancing nutrient uptake under NaCl‐stressed conditions. Added calcium silicate may ameliorate the parameters affected by high salinity, may reduce sodium and chloride, and can slightly increase calcium and potassium concentrations in shoots and roots of salt‐stressed cowpea and kidney bean.
Wapl Localization on the Synaptonemal Complex, a Meiosis‐specific Proteinaceous Structure that Binds Homologous Chromosomes, in the Female Mouse
Authors: Zhang J , Håkansson H , Kuroda M , Yuan L
Published: September 2007

Contents

The wings apart‐like (Wapl) protein is required to hold sister chromatids together in mitotic heterochromatin in Drosophila melanogaster. It is localized on the synaptonemal complex (SC), a meiosis‐specific structure connecting one pair of sister chromatids to the homologous pair in mouse pachytene spermatocytes. The human Wapl is a cohesin‐binding protein that facilitates cohesin's timely release from chromosome arms during prophase. The objective of the present study was to determine the subcellular localization of the mouse Wapl on female meiotic chromosomes at pachynema. The pachytene oocytes were isolated from foetal ovaries at 18.5 dpc and double immunostained with anti‐synaptonemal complex protein 2 (SYCP2) and anti‐Wapl. In the pachytene oocytes examined, mouse Wapl was colocalized with SYCP2 on the SC. Our results further implicated that Wapl might play a crucial role in meiotic chromosome remodelling at early meiosis.
CRIMINALIZATION OF MEDICAL ERROR: WHO DRAWS THE LINE?
Authors: Dekker Sidney W. A.
Published: September 2007

As stakeholders struggle to reconcile calls for accountability and pressures for increased patient safety, criminal prosecution of surgeons and other health‐care workers for medical error seems to be on the rise. This paper examines whether legal systems can meaningfully draw a line between acceptable performance and negligence. By questioning essentialist assumptions behind ‘crime’ or ‘negligence’, this paper suggests that multiple overlapping and partially contradictory descriptions of the same act are always possible, and even necessary, to approximate the complexity of reality. Although none of these descriptions is inherently right or wrong, each description of the act (as negligence, or system failure, or pedagogical issue) has a fixed repertoire of responses and countermeasures appended to it, which enables certain courses of action while excluding others. Simply holding practitioners accountable (e.g. by putting them on trial) excludes any beneficial effects as it produces defensive posturing, obfuscation and excessive stress and leads to defensive medicine, silent reporting systems and interference with professional oversight. Calls for accountability are important, but accountability should be seen as bringing information about needed improvements to levels or groups that can do something about it, rather than deflecting resources into legal protection and limiting liability. We must avoid a future in which we have to turn increasingly to legal systems to wring accountability out of practitioners because legal systems themselves have increasingly created a climate in which telling each other accounts openly is less and less possible.
LEARNING THE SURGICAL CRAFT: A REVIEW OF SKILLS TRAINING OPTIONS
Authors: Cosman Peter , Hemli Jonathan M. , Ellis Andrew M. , Hugh Thomas J.
Published: September 2007

Surgical practice is undergoing fundamental changes, and this is having a significant effect on the training of surgeons. Learning the craft of surgery is threatened by reduced elective operative exposure and general service cuts within public teaching hospitals, safer working hour legislation and pressures to accelerate the training of young surgeons. Rapid technological changes mean that ‘old dogs’ have to teach ‘young dogs’ many new tricks in a relatively adverse environment. This review outlines the great variety of resources available for skills‐based training outside the operating room. These resources are ready to be used as a necessary adjunct to the training of competent surgeons in Australasia.
THE EVOLVING ROLE OF THE BREAST PHYSICIAN IN THE MULTIDISCIPLINARY BREAST TEAM
Authors: Brennan Meagan , Spillane Andrew
Published: September 2007

Breast physicians are medical practitioners trained in the diagnosis and management of breast disease. This relatively small group of specialized clinicians has a unique and expanding role in multidisciplinary breast teams in Australia and New Zealand. With minimal available published works, this article studies the varied roles that breast physicians carry out and the way they participate in the multidisciplinary team. Investigation of their current roles in breast medicine identified breast physicians providing a broad range of clinical care in public and private breast clinics and breast screening programmes as well as holding academic and administrative positions in clinical and non‐clinical organizations. Numerous benefits for patients and for specialist breast clinicians working in partnership with breast physicians were identified. Breast surgeons are often the most advantaged by the contributions made by the breast physician to the multidisciplinary breast‐care team with breast physicians particularly adding value to the service provided by breast surgeons. Breast physicians are well‐trained, highly valuable members of the multidisciplinary breast team with a skill set that may enhance patient care at all stages from diagnosis to treatment to follow up.
THE ROLE OF ABDOMINAL RESECTIONAL SURGERY IN METASTATIC MELANOMA
Authors: Hodgson Russell , Fink Michael A. , Jones Robert M.
Published: September 2007

Background:  We reviewed our experience to determine the role of resectional surgery in metastatic melanoma to the abdomen.

Method:  An observational study of 25 patients at the Austin Hospital, Melbourne from 1997 to 2005.

Results:  The median survival after abdominal resectional surgery was 8.3 (range 0.4–41.1) months. Fourteen patients who underwent resection with curative intent (extra‐abdominal disease controlled and complete macroscopic clearance of abdominal disease) had improved survival compared with 11 patients who underwent palliative resection (12 month survival, 89 vs 10%, respectively, P < 0.0001). Survival was also superior in patients with up to two metastases compared with more than two (P = 0.0001) and in patients with serum albumin of at least 35 g/L (P = 0.0031). Intent of surgery (curative vs palliative) was the only factor significant on multivariate analysis (P = 0.001). Of patients with preoperative symptoms, 87% had resolution of these symptoms. Operative morbidity was 12%, and 30‐day mortality was 4%.

Conclusions:  In a highly selected group of patients with intra‐abdominal melanoma metastases, resection of intra‐abdominal metastases with curative intent resulted in prolonged survival compared with patients who underwent palliative resection. Those who underwent palliative resection had good relief of symptoms with minimal morbidity.
FACTORS AFFECTING IMPLANT RETENTION IN INFECTED JOINT REPLACEMENTS
Authors: Theis Jean‐Claude , Gambhir Shanu , White Jonathan
Published: September 2007

Background:  There is no standard treatment for infected joint replacements. The options available are varied, and treatment choices may pose problems in relation to both efficacy and cost‐effectiveness.

Methods:  A retrospective review of 73 patient records identified in our departmental audit database as infected joint replacements treated at Dunedin Hospital between 1990 and 2000 was carried out. The findings were analysed in terms of outcome of primary treatment, final outcome including prosthesis retention and bacteriology.

Results:  Of the 73 patients (50 hips and 20 knees), the majority (69%) were managed by primary surgical debridement followed by intravenous antibiotics but about one‐third (34%) lost their implants because of infection. Retention of implants was higher in acute infections (85–100%) as opposed to late infections (20–50%). The microbiological analysis showed that Staphylococcus and Streptococcus caused the majority (76%) of infections.

Conclusion:  In our series, a patient with an infected joint replacement had an approximately similar 30% chance of retaining the original prosthesis, undergoing a successful revision and having no implants in situ at the end of treatment.
THE EFFECT OF AGE ON THE QUALITY OF LIFE OF PATIENTS LIVING WITH STOMAS: A PILOT STUDY
Authors: Ma Norman , Harvey Jamie , Stewart Joanna , Andrews Lorraine , Hill Andrew G.
Published: September 2007

Background:  The formation of a stoma is associated with important effects on quality of life (QOL). The objective of this prospective pilot study was to assess the effect of age on QOL after stoma formation.

Methods:  Forty‐nine patients requiring stoma formation had their QOL assessed by completion of the SF‐36 v2 (SF‐36v‐1999 QualityMetric, Inc.) QOL questionnaire at three time points (preoperatively, at 6 months and at 12 months postoperatively).

Results:  There was evidence of a difference in mental function according to age (P = 0.05) with younger patients continuing to improve in QOL to 12 months, whereas older patients started higher but any improvement in their QOL over time was too small to be shown. Physical function of QOL improved over time in both younger and older patients, but the pattern of change differed. Older patients started higher but reached their maximum QOL by 6 months, whereas younger patients continued to improve. There was also evidence of a difference related to presentation with acute presentations starting lower in terms of QOL than elective presentations and showing an increase in QOL at both 6 and 12 months. No difference in change in QOL could be shown for type of stoma, sex or reversal.

Conclusions:  There was evidence that age and presentation are factors that influence changes in the QOL of stoma patients. Studies have shown that a stoma nurse specialist may help to increase QOL. Therefore, stoma therapy should be targeted at older patients who require more physical and mental support in adjusting to life with a stoma.
THE EFFECT OF TIME TO THEATRE ON INFECTION RATE FOR OPEN TIBIA FRACTURES
Authors: Sungaran Jai , Harris Ian , Mourad Mohamed
Published: September 2007

Background:  Open tibia fractures are an orthopaedic emergency. Surgical intervention has traditionally been recommended within 6 h of injury to decrease the risk of infection. There is little support for this time frame in published works, with no prospective randomized controlled trials to date. We sought to determine whether delay to definitive treatment affected the infection rate in open fractures of the tibia at our institution.

Methods:  A retrospective review of 161 consecutive skeletally mature patients with open tibia fractures treated at Liverpool Hospital was carried out. Cases were reviewed using the department database and the medical records. Time between injury and surgery was recorded as 0–6, 6–12 or 12–24 h. The infection rate was calculated for each group, and statistical significance was calculated using the χ2‐test.

Results:  No increase in the infection rate was found with increasing time to theatre, as five of the six infections occurred in the 0 to 6‐h group, and no infection occurred when treatment was delayed by more than 12 h. The infection rate was found to correlate with the grade of the open injury.

Conclusions:  The infection rate after open tibia fractures is strongly associated with the grade of the open fracture rather than the time to initial surgery. It may be justified to delay surgery on open tibia fractures until an optimal operating environment can be provided.
WAITING FOR ELECTIVE SURGERY: EFFECT ON PHYSICAL PROBLEMS AND POSTOPERATIVE RECOVERY
Authors: Oudhoff Jurriaan P. , Timmermans Danielle R. M. , Knol Dirk L. , Bijnen Albert B. , Van der Wal Gerrit
Published: September 2007

Background: Long waiting times for elective surgery pose a threat to the quality of care. Our study aimed to assess (i) the physical symptoms and disabilities patients experience during the wait, (ii) the perceived improvements after surgery and (iii) whether problems increase during the wait or longer waits affect postoperative outcomes.

Methods: A cross‐sectional questionnaire study with postoperative follow up was held among patients waiting for surgery of varicose veins (n = 176), inguinal hernia (n = 201) and gallstones (n = 128) in 27 hospitals.

Results: During the wait, each group reported increased levels of pain and impaired mobility (Nottingham Health Profile,P < 0.05). However, 15–41% of patients had no or mild symptoms, whereas 5% of inguinal hernia patients had severe pain and 17% of gallstone patients reported ≥1 colic attacks per week. Surgery resolved symptoms in 86–95% of patients. The length of the wait was not associated with problems during the wait or with postoperative outcomes (multilevel regression analysis,P > 0.01).

Conclusions: Waiting for general surgery primarily prolongs the suffering from symptoms, which are relieved by surgery. Although the prioritization of patients with more severe symptoms would reduce the overall burden of waiting, patients with minimal symptoms may be advised to refrain from surgery.
IATROGENIC FEMORAL ARTERY ANEURYSMS IN ORTHOPAEDIC PRACTICE
Authors: Tiwary Satyendra K. , Kumar Sanjeev , Khanna Rahul , Khanna A. K.
Published: September 2007

Background:  Iatrogenic injury to the femoral vessel is a rare complication after fracture of hip. Pseudoaneurysm formation of superficial femoral artery or profunda femoris artery is detected quite late. We present our experience for surgical management of pseudoaneurysm of femoral artery after iatrogenic trauma during management of fracture of femur.

Methods:  A retrospective analysis was carried out for eight patients with femoral artery pseudoaneurysm treated surgically during the last 10 years in one surgical unit.

Results:  Of eight patients with pseudoaneurysm of femoral artery, six had superficial femoral artery aneurysm and two profunda femoris artery aneurysm. Mean duration for presentation was 4 months (range 2–6 months). Methods of surgical intervention were direct closure of arterial defect after aneurysmectomy in six cases and use of saphenous vein patch graft for repair of artery in two cases. Mean size of aneurysm was 12 × 7 cm (range 8 × 4 cm to 20 × 12 cm). All patients were doing well during a mean follow up of 72 months (range 6–110 months).

Conclusion:  Large pseudoaneurysms of femoral arteries after iatrogenic injury during management of fractures of femur should be managed by aneurysmectomy and arterial repair with or without saphenous vein patch graft.
Quality of life after indefinite diversion/pouch excision in ileal pouch failure patients
Authors: Das P. , Smith J. J. , Tekkis P. P. , Heriot A. G. , Antropoli M. , John Nicholls R.
Published: September 2007

Objective  Pouch failure occurs in up to 10% of patients over a 10‐year period for a variety of reasons. One surgical option is pouch excision (PE) and form a permanent ileostomy. This is a major procedure with potential serious complications. An alternative is indefinite diversion (ID) of the pouch without excision. The aim of this study was to examine the quality of life and functional outcome in these two groups of patients.

Method  Ninety‐seven patients were identified from the database to have either PE or ID. Fifty‐three patients (17 men) responded; comprising 31 patients after PE and 22 patients with ID in a case–control study and completed the SF‐36 general health survey and the Cleveland Clinic Foundation (CCF) functional outcomes questionnaire.

Results  There was no significant difference in the domains of SF‐36 between the two groups (P > 0.18). All patients with PE had an end ileostomy whereas most patients with ID had a loop ileostomy (18 loop vs 4 end). There was no difference in stoma related complications except for stoma retraction in ID (7%vs 47%; P = 0.003). There was no significant difference in urinary symptoms between PE and ID groups (weak stream 26%vs 14%; P = 0.49, nocturia 22%vs 4%; P = 0.12, urgency 22%vs 9%; P = 0.28, urinary incontinence 22%vs 14%; P = 0.72 respectively). There was no difference in sexually active patients (73%vs 94%; P = 0.11). Of the seven male PE patients, five (71%) could achieve an erection and four (57%) could maintain an erection, compared with all 10 male patients in the ID group (P = 0.151 and 0.05 respectively). Thirty‐three per cent of patients with PE and 62% of patients with ID reported that they would have pouch surgery again if indicated (P = 0.052) and 58% of patients with PE and 81% of patients with ID reported that they would recommend pouch surgery to others (P = 0.129). No case of dysplasia was seen in 18 of 22 ID patients in whom histology was available.

Conclusion  Quality of life after PE or ID was no different and male sexual function was significantly better after ID. Retraction of the stoma was more common in this group.
Retroperitoneal margin involvement by adenocarcinoma of the caecum and ascending colon: what does it mean?
Authors: Scott N. , Jamali A. , Verbeke C. , Ambrose N. S. , Botterill I. D. , Jayne D. G.
Published: September 2007

Objective  Circumferential margin involvement (CRM) is a powerful predictor of local recurrence, distant metastasis and patient survival in rectal cancer. In this study, we aimed to determine the frequency of retroperitoneal margin involvement in right colon cancer and describe its relationship to tumour stage and outcome of surgical treatment.

Method  Two hundred and twenty‐eight consecutive resections for adenocarcinoma of the ascending colon and caecum were identified between 1998 and 2006. Tumour involvement of the posterior retroperitoneal surgical resection margin (RSRM) was recorded and correlated with tumour stage, grade and clinical outcome. RSRM positive patients were compared with CRM positive rectal tumours resected in the same surgical unit.

Results  Nineteen of 228 right hemicolectomies (8.4%) showed tumour involvement of the RSRM (defined as ≤ 1 mm). Approximately half of the RSRM positive patients underwent palliative resections because of synchronous distant metastases. Out of nine ‘potentially curative’ resections where the RSRM was involved, five patients subsequently developed metastatic recurrence and two isolated local recurrence. RSRM positivity was associated with advanced tumour stage and more extensive extramural spread than CRM positive rectal cancers.

Conclusion  Retroperitoneal surgical resection margin involvement by caecal and ascending colon carcinoma is a marker of advanced tumour stage and associated with a high incidence of synchronous and metachronous distant metastasis. More aggressive surgery to obtain a clear margin or postoperative radiotherapy to the tumour bed is likely to benefit only a minority of patients.
How do we manage early rectal cancer? A national questionnaire survey among members of the ACPGBI after the preliminary results of the MRC CR07/NCIC CO16 randomized trial
Authors: Srinivasaiah N. , Joseph B. , Mackey P. , Monson J.R.T.
Published: September 2007

Objective  The role of neoadjuvant radiotherapy in the management of rectal cancers has not reached a consensus in colorectal surgical practice. In the light of the preliminary results of the CRO7 trial, we undertook a national questionnaire survey to assess the current pattern of practice in the UK. The aim of this study was to assess the correlation between CRO7 trial results and current practice amongst consultant members of the Association of Coloproctology of Great Britain and Ireland (ACPGBI).

Method  A 14‐item questionnaire was designed to inquire into the current management strategy of operable rectal cancers and the possible role of neoadjuvant radiotherapy. The postal questionnaire survey was sent to all the 400 active consultant surgical members of the ACPGBI.

Results  Of 400 questionnaires, 200 (50%) were returned fully completed. One hundred and sixty‐six (83%) of surgeons did not routinely use neoadjuvant short course radiotherapy (NASCRT) in clinically operable rectal cancers (T1/T2) <15 cm from anal verge with no metastases (The CR07 eligible cohort). Sixty‐four (32%) used NASCRT for T3 cancers routinely whereas 76 (38%) used neoadjuvant long course radiotherapy instead. One hundred and fifty‐sixty (78%) of the surgeons felt the height of the tumour from the anal verge influenced their decision on NASCRT, while 104 (52%) felt position was important (Anterior/Posterior). Positive anticipated margins of excision on magnetic resonance imaging was a deciding factor for 185 (92.5%) of surgeons in favour of neoadjuvant therapy. Postoperatively in patients who have not had preoperative radiotherapy, 154 (77%) recommended radiotherapy and 155 (77.5%) recommended chemotherapy if the circumferential resection margin was +ve on final pathology. Seventy‐eight (39%) of the surgeons have changed their practice after the preliminary results of the CRO7 by adopting NASCRT for treating early rectal cancers.

Conclusion  Despite the evidence of the CRO7 trial supporting the use of NASCRT for operable rectal cancer, approximately two‐third of consultant surgeons in the UK have yet to implement this treatment regime routinely. A change in practice in 39% of surgeons following the early dissemination of trial results indicate that colorectal surgeons practice is guided by scientific evidence. Because the mature trial data have yet to be published, a further survey of practice is warranted after that publication to determine the ultimate impact of this trial. This survey measures the baseline practice to compare changes over the next 2 years.
Stable expression of AtGA2ox1 in a low‐input turfgrass (Paspalum notatum Flugge) reduces bioactive gibberellin levels and improves turf quality under field conditions
Authors: Agharkar Mrinalini , Lomba Paula , Altpeter Fredy , Zhang Hangning , Kenworthy Kevin , Lange Theo
Published: September 2007

Bahiagrass (Paspalum notatum Flugge) is a prime candidate for molecular improvement of turf quality. Its persistence and low input characteristics made it the dominant utility turfgrass along highways in the south‐eastern USA. However, the comparatively poor turf quality due to reduced turf density and prolific production of unsightly inflorescences currently limits the widespread use of bahiagrass as residential turf. Alteration of endogenous gibberellin (GA) levels by application of growth regulators or transgenic strategies has modified plant architecture in several crops. GA catabolizing AtGA2ox1 was subcloned under the control of the constitutive maize ubiquitin promoter and Nos 3’UTR. A minimal AtGA2ox1 expression cassette lacking vector backbone sequences was stably introduced into apomictic bahiagrass by biolistic gene transfer as confirmed by Southern blot analysis. Expression of AtGA2ox1 in bahiagrass as indicated by reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction and Northern blot analysis resulted in a significant reduction of endogenous bioactive GA1 levels compared to wild type. Interestingly, transgenic plants displayed an increased number of vegetative tillers which correlated with the level of AtGA2ox1 expression and enhanced turf density under field conditions. This indicates that GAs contribute to signalling the outgrowth of axillary buds in this perennial grass. Transgenic plants also showed decreased stem length and delayed flowering under controlled environment and field conditions. Consequently, turf quality following weekly mowing was improved in transgenic bahiagrass. Transgene expression and phenotype were transmitted to seed progeny. Argentine bahiagrass produces seeds asexually by apomixis, which reduces the risk of unintended transgene dispersal by pollen and results in uniform progeny.
Functional analysis of soybean genes involved in flavonoid biosynthesis by virus‐induced gene silencing
Authors: Nagamatsu Atsushi , Masuta Chikara , Senda Mineo , Matsuura Hideyuki , Kasai Atsushi , Hong Jin‐Sung , Kitamura Keisuke , Abe Jun , Kanazawa Akira
Published: September 2007

Virus‐induced gene silencing (VIGS) is a powerful tool for functional analysis of genes in plants. A wide‐host‐range VIGS vector, which was developed based on theCucumber mosaic virus(CMV), was tested for its ability to silence endogenous genes involved in flavonoid biosynthesis in soybean. Symptomless infection was established using a pseudorecombinant virus, which enabled detection of specific changes in metabolite content by VIGS. It has been demonstrated that the yellow seed coat phenotype of various cultivated soybean lines that lack anthocyanin pigmentation is induced by natural degradation ofchalcone synthase(CHS) mRNA. When soybean plants with brown seed coats were infected with a virus that contains theCHSgene sequence, the colour of the seed coats changed to yellow, which indicates that the naturally occurring RNA silencing is reproduced by VIGS. In addition,CHSVIGS consequently led to a decrease in isoflavone content in seeds. VIGS was also tested on the putativeflavonoid 3′‐hydroxylase(F3′H) gene in the pathway. This experiment resulted in a decrease in the content of quercetin relative to kaempferol in the upper leaves after viral infection, which suggests that the putative gene actually encodes the F3′H protein. In both experiments, a marked decrease in the target mRNA and accumulation of short interfering RNAs were detected, indicating that sequence‐specific mRNA degradation was induced. The present report is a successful demonstration of the application of VIGS for genes involved in flavonoid biosynthesis in plants; the CMV‐based VIGS system provides an efficient tool for functional analysis of soybean genes.
Delivery of macromolecules to plant parasitic nematodes using a tobacco rattle virus vector
Authors: Valentine Tracy A. , Randall Eva , Wypijewski Krzysztof , Chapman Sean , Jones John , Oparka Karl J.
Published: September 2007

Plant parasitic nematodes cause significant damage to crops on a worldwide scale. These nematodes are often soil dwelling but rely on plants for food and to sustain them during reproduction. Complex interactions occur between plants and nematodes during the nematode life cycle with plant roots developing specialized feeding structures through which nematodes withdraw nutrients. Here we describe a novel method for delivering macromolecules to feeding nematodes using a virus‐based vector [tobacco rattle virus (TRV)]. We show that the parasitic nematode Heterodera schachtii will ingest fluorescent proteins transiently expressed in plant roots infected with a TRV construct carrying the appropriate protein sequence. A prerequisite for this delivery is the presence of replicating virus in root tips prior to the formation of nematode‐induced syncytia. We show also that TRV vectors expressing nematode gene sequences can be used to induce RNAi in the feeding nematodes.
superwoman1‐cleistogamy, a hopeful allele for gene containment in GM rice
Authors: Yoshida Hitoshi , Itoh Jun‐Ichi , Ohmori Shinnosuke , Miyoshi Kazumaru , Horigome Ayako , Uchida Eiji , Kimizu Mayumi , Matsumura Yoko , Kusaba Makoto , Satoh Hikaru , Nagato Yasuo
Published: September 2007

Cleistogamy is an efficient strategy for preventing gene flow from genetically modified (GM) crops. We identified a cleistogamous mutant of rice harbouring a missense mutation (the 45th residue isoleucine to threonine; I45T) in the class‐B MADS‐box geneSUPERWOMAN1(SPW1), which specifies the identities of lodicules (equivalent to petals) and stamens. In the mutant,spw1‐cls, the stamens are normal, but the lodicules are transformed homeotically to lodicule–glume mosaic organs, thereby engendering cleistogamy. Since this mutation does not affect other agronomic traits, it can be used in crosses to produce transgenic lines that do not cause environmental perturbation. Molecular analysis revealed that the reduced heterodimerization ability of SPW1I45Twith its counterpart class‐B proteins OsMADS2 and OsMADS4 caused altered lodicule identity.spw1‐clsis the first useful mutant for practical gene containment in GM rice. Cleistogamy is possible in many cereals by engineering class‐B floral homeotic genes and thereby inducing lodicule identity changes.
The Private Sector and the Implementation of the Kyoto Protocol: Experiences, Challenges and Prospects
Authors: Kulovesi Kati
Published: September 2007

This article emphasizes the critical importance of the private sector to the success of the efforts to mitigate climate change. Analysing the progress and experiences gained so far, this article concentrates on the role of the private sector in the operationalization of the Kyoto Protocol's three flexible mechanisms, namely Joint Implementation (JI), the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) and international emissions trading. The article illustrates in detail the various tasks performed by private actors during the CDM and JI project cycles, and contemplates their possible participation under Article 17 of the Protocol on international emissions trading. While identifying some challenges, the article argues that the Kyoto Protocol's flexible mechanisms have succeeded in finding innovative ways of involving the private sector in climate change mitigation and that the post‐2012 climate regime should build on these experiences.
Corporate Social Responsibility: A Step Towards Stronger Involvement of Business in MEA Implementation?
Authors: Siegele Linda , Ward Halina
Published: September 2007

This article explores the relationship between multilateral environmental agreements (MEAs) and corporate social responsibility (CSR). It offers an overview of the linkages, a survey of relevant provisions of key MEAs, and a review of the relationship between global trade rules and MEAs. Finally, the article highlights three ongoing discussions with relevance to linkages between CSR and MEAs: (1) whether, and if so how, to identify minimum global business standards in the environmental sphere; (2) the rapidly evolving ‘sub‐theme’ within the CSR agenda which addresses the business/development interface, and the contribution of business to poverty reduction, sustainable livelihoods and achieving the Millennium Development Goals; and (3) the development by the International Organization for Standardization of an international guidance standard on ‘organizational social responsibility’, which, if adopted, will become ISO 26000. The risk of seeing CSR as a new pathway to MEA implementation is that the role of MEAs in informing the development of minimum acceptable environmental norms of business behaviour will be ‘watered down’. If MEAs are to learn from CSR, their competitors and often stronger counterparts in the international architecture – intergovernmental trade and investment arrangements – also need to be equipped not only to be sensitive to CSR, but actively to support it.

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Melting Moments: The Future of Polar Oceans Governance in a Warming World
Authors: Rayfuse Rosemary
Published: September 2007

Climate change poses significant physical, ecological, social and economic challenges to environmental, human and national security in polar regions. From an oceans governance perspective, increased human access to formerly ice‐covered areas, and the potential for increased activities such as fishing, shipping, tourism, bioprospecting, off‐shore mining, and oil and gas exploration, present significant legal challenges. While the issues are not unique to polar areas, the geopolitical, geographical and physical characteristics of the polar regions provide a unique and demanding framework in which to identify and address jurisdictional issues and issues relating to the protection of polar marine environments. This article attempts to identify the legal challenges ahead and to provide preliminary observations as to how the polar oceans governance regime might develop in the future.
Third Party Participation in Investment‐Environment Disputes: Recent Developments
Authors: Tienhaara Kyla
Published: September 2007

This article outlines recent developments in investor–State dispute settlement related to the participation of third parties in arbitration. A particular focus is given to third party participation in disputes with a clear public interest based on the relevance of the cases to the protection of the environment, or sustainable development more generally. The benefits and drawbacks of third party participation and the relationship of participation to broader issues of transparency are also briefly discussed.
Towards Institutional Symbiosis: Business and the United Nations in Environmental Governance
Authors: Ivanova Maria , Gordon David , Roy Jennifer
Published: September 2007

This article analyses the potentially symbiotic role of business and the United Nations (UN) in global environmental governance. Contending that a stronger and more coherent UN in the realm of the environment is in the interest of the business community, we focus on three main issues: what the UN needs to become stronger in environmental affairs; what business could provide on this behalf; and how business could benefit from a strengthened UN. We consider the current structural dilemmas of the UN environmental system, including concerns about institutional multiplicity and how these may affect business engagement. After reflecting on perceived and actual challenges and opportunities for business participation, we conclude with three substantive solutions towards more efficient collaboration. These solutions centre on the continuation of an interactive database begun by the Global Environmental Governance Project, a joint initiative of the Yale Center for Environmental Law and Policy and the College of William and Mary.
On Environmental Policy and Permitting
Authors: BONTEMS PHILIPPE , BOURGEON JEAN‐MARC
Published: September 2007

The literature on environmental policy under adverse selection usually assumes that firms' profit vary monotonically with a private information parameter. However, it is easy to demonstrate using standard production setups that regularity is not the rule. We show that policy requirements are very sensitive to this assumption. In particular, the optimal instrument resembles more an “adaptable” pollution standard than the economic instrument of an environmental tax. We also show that permitting, which results in some firms overinvesting in pollution‐control equipment, does not serve the objective of improving the environment but rather allows the agency to increase the proceeds of the policy.
Strategyproof Cost Sharing of Multiple Excludable Public Goods
Authors: MUTUSWAMI SURESH
Published: September 2007

In a model of cost sharing of multiple excludable public goods, we examine the properties of mechanisms satisfying strategyproofness, no subsidy, outcome non‐bossiness, budget balance, individual rationality and consumer sovereignty. We show that such mechanisms in general will not satisfy the equity property of equal treatment of equals. This contrasts with the single excludable public good case.
Correcting Market Failure Due to Interdependent Preferences: When Is Piecemeal Policy Possible?
Authors: RANDON EMANUELA , SIMMONS PETER
Published: September 2007

Allowing for general utility interdependence and agent heterogeneity, we characterize taxes that will generate first best solutions in markets. We show the equivalence of tax corrections derived from the Marshallian and compensated demand approaches. Next we analyze the conditions that are required for the market failure to be corrected by: (1) specific indirect ad valorem taxes on commodities, (2) the same proportional tax rate on every commodity, and (3) a proportional income tax rate on each individual. The conditions are related to the restrictions necessary to have H synthetic consumers without externalities who replicate behavior of individuals with externalities.
On the Optimality of Search Matching Equilibrium When Workers Are Risk Averse
Authors: LEHMANN ETIENNE , VAN DER LINDEN BRUNO
Published: September 2007

This paper revisits the normative properties of search‐matching economies when homogeneous workers have concave utility functions and wages are bargained over. The optimal allocation of resources is characterized first when information is perfect and second when search effort is not observable. In the former case, employees should be unable to extract a rent. The optimal marginal tax rate is then 100%. As search effort becomes unobservable, an appropriate positive rent is needed and the optimal marginal tax rate is lower. Moreover, the pretax wage is lower in order to boost labor demand. Finally, in both cases, nonlinear income taxation is a key complement to unemployment insurance.
Piecemeal Multilateral Environmental Policy Reforms under Asymmetric Oligopoly
Authors: LAHIRI SAJAL , SYMEONIDIS GEORGE
Published: September 2007

We develop a general two‐country model with oligopolistic interdependence in which a fixed number of firms make their output and emission decisions simultaneously. We examine the effect of multilateral reforms of emission taxes on global emission levels. With sufficient asymmetry in pollution intensities between the two countries, a proportional multilateral increase in emission tax rates can increase global emission levels. However, a multilateral equal increase of emission tax rates unambiguously reduces global emission levels. We also consider the case of free entry and exit of firms, and find a rule of multilateral reforms which unambiguously lowers total emission levels.
Autoantibodies against M1 muscarinic acetylcholine receptor in myasthenic disorders
Authors: Takamori M. , Motomura M. , Fukudome T. , Yoshikawa H.
Published: September 2007

The Lambert–Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS), often associated with small‐cell lung carcinoma (SCLC), is a disorder of acetylcholine (ACh) release from motor nerve terminals. In most patients, it is caused by autoantibodies against the P/Q‐type voltage‐gated calcium channels (VGCC) that trigger ACh release. However, these antibodies are not detected in approximately 15% of clinically and electrophysiologically typical cases. The M1‐type pre‐synaptic muscarinic ACh receptor (M1 mAChR) modulates cholinergic neuromuscular transmission by linking to P/Q‐type VGCC, and may partially compensate for the reduced calcium entry. Immunoblotting against solubilized human M1 mAChR, we detected autoantibodies in: (a) 14 of 20 (70%) anti‐VGCC‐positive LEMS patients; (b) all five anti‐VGCC‐negative LEMS patients, one of whose serum had previously passively transferred LEMS‐type electrophysiological defects to mice; (c) all five LEMS patients with autonomic symptoms; (d) seven of 25 (28%) myasthenia gravis (MG) patients in whom increased ACh release partially compensates for post‐synaptic defects; (e) none of 10 SCLC patients without LEMS. Although not proving primary pathogenicity of anti‐M1 mAChR antibodies, the present results highlight their potential to affect synaptic compensatory mechanisms, more in LEMS than MG.
The role of MRI of the brain and spinal cord, and CSF examination for the diagnosis of primary progressive multiple sclerosis
Authors: Nilsson P. , Sandberg‐Wollheim M. , Norrving B. , Larsson E.‐M.
Published: September 2007

The clinical applicability of the revised McDonald diagnostic criteria of primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS) was assessed in 17 patients with a longstanding PPMS diagnosis (mean 15 years). All patients were re‐evaluated with clinical examinations, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain and the spinal cord, extensive laboratory tests, and 12 patients underwent cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) examination. No diagnosis more likely than PPMS was disclosed. All patients had brain and spinal cord lesions on MRI. In 15 patients the brain lesions and in 14 the spinal cord lesions fulfilled the revised McDonald criteria for positive scans. No contrast‐enhancing lesion was observed despite administration of triple doses of gadolinium. In total, 12 patients fulfilled the revised McDonald MRI criteria for PPMS. Of the remaining five patients who incompletely fulfilled the revised MRI criteria, all had CSF findings supporting the diagnosis PPMS. Thus, CSF analysis was required in addition to MRI in about one‐third of the patients to establish the diagnosis of PPMS.
Criminologists Say … : An Analysis of UK National Press Coverage of Criminology and Criminologists and a Contribution to the Debate on ‘Public Criminology’
Authors: GROOMBRIDGE NIC
Published: September 2007

Abstract: This article examines UK national press coverage of criminology and criminologists for the twelve months up to April 2005. In part it replicates work done on sociology and sociologists in the previous year by Gaber (2005). Both serious and by the bye contributions by criminologists and mentions of criminology – favourable and unfavourable – are analysed, to provoke discussion within criminology and criminal justice studies about how the discipline is viewed by the print media. The discussion draws on developments in sociology around ‘public sociology’ and suggests the necessity of, and ways forward for, ‘public criminology’.
Reproduction in male swamp wallabies (Wallabia bicolor): puberty and the effects of season
Authors: Paplinska Justyna Zofia , Moyle Richard L. C. , Wreford Nigel G. , Temple‐Smith Peter D. M. , Renfree Marilyn B.
Published: September 2007

This study describes pubertal changes in testes and epididymides and seasonal changes in the adult male reproductive organs and plasma androgen concentrations of the swamp wallaby (Wallabia bicolor). Pre‐pubescent males had testes with solid seminiferous cords and spermatogenesis only to the stage of gonocytes. Their epididymides had empty lumina along their entire length. The testes of three males undergoing puberty had some lumen formation and mitotic activity. Their epididymides were similar in appearance to those of adult males but were entirely devoid of any cells within the lumen of the duct. Three other pubescent males showed full lumen formation in the testes and spermatogenesis up to the elongating spermatid stage. Their epididymides were similar in appearance to those of adult males but with no spermatozoa in the duct. However, cells of testicular origin were found in the lumen of the duct in all regions suggesting that testicular fluids and immature germ cells shed into the rete testes flow through the seminiferous tubules into the epididymis before the release of mature testicular spermatozoa. The weights of testes and epididymides of adult males showed no change throughout the year but prostate weight and plasma androgen concentrations varied significantly with season, with maximums in spring and summer and minimums in winter. The volume fraction of Leydig cells and seminiferous tubules was significantly lower in winter than in summer; but, despite this, maturing spermatozoa were found in the testes throughout the year. Females in the area conceived year‐round, suggesting that seasonal changes in the male reproductive tract did not prevent at least some males from breeding throughout the year.
Establishment, maintenance and modifications of the lower jaw dentition of wild Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.) throughout its life cycle
Authors: Huysseune Ann , Hall Brian K. , Witten P. Eckhard
Published: September 2007

In this paper we elucidate the pattern of initiation of the first teeth and the pattern of tooth replacement on the dentary of wild Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.), throughout nearly all stages of its life cycle, using serially sectioned heads and jaws, cleared and stained animals, and X‐rays. The dentary teeth are set in one row. Tooth germs appear around hatching, first in odd positions, followed by even positions. From position 8 further backwards, teeth are added in adjacent positions. The first replacement teeth appear in animals of about 30 mm fork length. On the dentary of early life stages (alevins and fry), every position in the tooth row holds a functional (i.e. attached and erupted) tooth and a replacement tooth. The alternating pattern set up anteriorly in the dentary by the first‐generation teeth changes in juveniles (parr) whereby teeth are in a similar functional (for the erupted teeth) or developmental stage (for the replacement teeth) every three positions. This pattern is also observed in marine animals during their marine life phase and in both sexes of adult animals prior to spawning (grilse and salmon), but every position now holds either a functional tooth or a mineralised replacement tooth. This is likely due to the fact that replacement tooth germs have to grow to a larger size before mineralisation starts. In the following spring, the dentary tooth pattern of animals that have survived spawning (kelts) is highly variable. The abundance of functional teeth in post‐spawning animals nevertheless indicates that teeth are not lost over winter.

We confirm the earlier reported lack of evidence for the existence of an edentulous life phase, preceding the appearance of so‐called breeding teeth during upstream migration to the spawning grounds, and consider breeding teeth to be just another tooth generation in a regularly replacing dentition. This study shows how Atlantic salmon maintains a functional adaptive dentition throughout its complex life cycle.