bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cost‐utility analysis of bevacizumab versus ranibizumab in neovascular age‐related macular degeneration using a Markov model
Authors: Patel Jignesh J. , Mendes Margaret A.S. , Bounthavong Mark , Christopher Melissa L.D. , Boggie Daniel , Morreale Anthony P.
Published: September 2010

Objective To evaluate the cost‐effectiveness of intravitreal bevacizumab to ranibizumab in patients with neovascular age‐related macular degeneration (AMD).

Methods A cost‐utility analysis using a Markov model was performed to evaluate incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio [ICER, $US per quality‐adjusted life year (QALY) gained] between bevacizumab and ranibizumab from a US payer perspective. Transition probabilities for ranibizumab and bevacizumab were extrapolated from published studies and local institutional data. Utility values, likewise, were obtained from another published study. Mortality rates were determined from the Centers for Disease Control 2003 Life Tables. Resource utilization and total direct costs were estimated using the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and the Veterans Affairs Decision Support System. A hypothetical cohort of 1000 patients was simulated through the model for 20 years. Sensitivity analyses were performed using univariate and probabilistic sensitivity analysis (PSA) on all costs, transition probabilities and utility values. An acceptability curve was generated to illustrate the cost‐effectiveness probability of bevacizumab to ranibizumab with increasing willingness‐to‐pay (WTP).

Results The cost‐effectiveness ratios (CER) for bevacizumab and ranibizumab were $1405 per QALY and $12 177 per QALY, respectively. The ICER for bevacizumab was dominant compared to ranibizumab. The base‐case CER was sensitive to drug costs of the study medications with a breakeven point of $44 for ranibizumab and $2666 for bevacizumab. PSA revealed a 95% probability of bevacizumab being more cost‐effective than ranibizumab at a WTP of $50 000 per QALY gained.

Conclusion Based on a WTP defined at $50 000 per QALY gained, bevacizumab was cost‐effective versus ranibizumab 95% of the time because of lower acquisition costs and increased efficacy.
Effect of short‐term intensive insulin therapy on quality of life in type 2 diabetes
Authors: Opsteen Christine , Qi Ying , Zinman Bernard , Retnakaran Ravi
Published: September 2010

Rationale, aims and objectives  Short‐term intensive insulin therapy (IIT) early in the course of type 2 diabetes can improve pancreatic beta‐cell function and even induce normoglycemia that persists post‐therapy. In spite of this benefit, insulin is often delayed until late in the course of disease partly because of its perceived negative impact on quality of life (QOL). Therefore, we sought to examine the effect of early implementation of short‐term IIT on patient‐reported QOL and treatment satisfaction.

Methods  A total of 34 patients with type 2 diabetes (5.9 ± 6.6 years duration, on zero to two oral antihyperglycaemic agents) underwent 4–8 weeks of IIT consisting of basal detemir and pre‐meal insulin aspart. Patient‐reported QOL, treatment satisfaction and symptom distress were assessed at baseline and post‐IIT using the Medical Outcomes Study 36‐item Short‐Form Health Survey (SF‐36), Diabetes Quality of Life Measure (DQOL), and Diabetes Symptoms Checklist‐Revised (DSC‐R).

Results  There was a significant improvement in glycated haemoglobin post‐IIT (mean 6.5% vs. 7%; P < 0.001). All 34 patients tolerated IIT well with no severe hypoglycaemia. Following IIT, the SF‐36 showed a significant improvement compared to baseline in reported physical functioning (mean 88.2 vs. 83.3, P = 0.009), general health (69.4 vs. 65.6, P = 0.03), and general mental health (85.2 vs. 82.2, P = 0.04). The DQOL demonstrated a significant improvement in global health perception (P = 0.02), diabetes worry (P = 0.006) and treatment satisfaction (P = 0.007). The DSC‐R revealed a significant improvement in the diabetes‐related total symptom score (P = 0.01).

Conclusions  Contrary to popular perception, a short course of IIT resulted in significant improvements in QOL and treatment satisfaction, demonstrating the patient acceptability of early insulin therapy.
5‐HT4receptor agonists: similar but not the same
Authors: De Maeyer J. H. , Lefebvre R. A. , Schuurkes J. A. J.
Published: September 2010

Abstract 5‐Hydroxytryptamine4(5‐HT4) receptors are an interesting target for the management of patients in need of gastrointestinal (GI) promotility treatment. They have proven therapeutic potential to treat patients with GI motility disorders. Lack of selectivity for the 5‐HT4receptor has limited the clinical success of the agonists used until now. For instance, next to their affinity for 5‐HT4receptors, both cisapride and tegaserod have appreciable affinity for other receptors, channels or transporters [e.g. cisapride: human ether‐a‐go‐go‐related gene (hERG) is K+channel and tegaserod: 5‐HT1and 5‐HT2receptors]. Adverse cardiovascular events observed with these compounds are not 5‐HT4receptor‐related. Recent efforts have led to the discovery of a series of selective 5‐HT4receptor ligands, with prucalopride being the most advanced in clinical development. The selectivity of these new compounds clearly differentiates them from the older generation compounds by minimizing the potential of target‐unrelated side effects. The availability of selective agonists enables the focus to shift to the exploration of 5‐HT4receptor‐related differences between agonists. Based on drug‐ and tissue‐related properties (e.g. differences in receptor binding, receptor density, effectors, coupling efficiency), 5‐HT4receptor agonists are able to express tissue selectivity, i.e. behave as a partial agonist in some and as a full agonist in other tissues. Furthermore, the concept of ligand‐directed signalling offers great opportunities for future drug development by enlarging the scientific basis for the generation of agonist‐specific effects in different cell types, tissues or organs. Selective 5‐HT4receptor agonists might thus prove to be innovative drugs with an attractive safety profile for better treatment of patients suffering from hypomotility disorders.
Functional and Clinical Aspects of the B‐Cell‐Activating Factor (BAFF): A Narrative Review
Authors: Lied G. A. , Berstad A.
Published: September 2010

B‐cell‐activating factor (BAFF) influences peripheral B‐cell survival, maturation and immunoglobulin class‐switch recombination and has a range of potential clinical implications. Biological functions of BAFF and its relevance in various clinical disorders including currently investigated BAFF‐targeting therapies are reviewed and discussed based on PubMed search of relevant articles. Serum levels of BAFF are increased in autoimmune diseases including autoimmune hepatitis and primary biliary cirrhosis where BAFF concentrations are related to titres of autoantibodies and disease progression. Increased BAFF levels are found in synovial, bronchoalveolar and gut lavage fluids, suggesting local class switching and immunoglobulin production. Clinical relevance and diagnostic potential of BAFF are also noted in patients with allergic diseases, malignancies and infections including hepatitis C virus. BAFF antagonists are promising new therapeutic agents, currently being tried in B‐cell‐related autoimmune diseases. Serum level of BAFF may indicate disease mechanisms and the degree of activity. Determination of BAFF in different body compartments like synovium, airways and gut may also have clinical implications. Results of ongoing clinical trials with BAFF antagonists are eagerly awaited.
Small‐Interfering RNA‐Mediated Identification and Regulation of the Ternary SNARE Complex Mediating RBL‐2H3 Mast Cell Degranulation
Authors: Woska Jr J. R. , Gillespie M. E.
Published: September 2010

Dysregulation of mast cell function contributes to allergic and autoimmune disease that affects more than 70 million persons in the United States alone. Identifying novel mast cell targets that mediate disease or disease progression is required for the development of innovative therapeutics for the treatment of allergy/asthma and autoimmune disease. RNA interference technologies offer hope both as basic research tools for target identification and as potential, novel, specific therapeutics. SolubleN‐ethylmaleimide‐sensitive factor attachment protein receptors (SNAREs) are a family of evolutionarily conserved proteins that have been postulated to mediate the transport and fusion of inflammatory mediator‐laden vesicles to the membrane in mast cells leading to their subsequent exocytosis. The functional role(s) of specific SNARE family member complexes in mast cell degranulation has not been fully elucidated. Here, we characterize the functional importance of SNARE complexes in FcεRI receptor‐mediated degranulation of RBL‐2H3 cells utilizing RNA interference. We demonstrate that ternary SNARE complexes of synaptosomal‐associated protein‐23, Syntaxin 4 and vesicle‐associated membrane protein‐7 (VAMP‐7) or VAMP‐8 are directly involved in mast cell degranulation. Additionally, we evaluate the siRNAs directed against these molecules as potential therapeutic agents for disease intervention. These studies have identified specific SNARE proteins and complexes that serve as novel targets for the development of siRNA therapies to treat allergic and autoimmune disease.
Palaeosols and palaeokarst beneath subaerial unconformities in an Upper Devonian isolated reef complex (Judy Creek), Swan Hills Formation, west‐central Alberta, Canada
Authors: CHOW NANCY , WENDTE JACK
Published: September 2010

Subaerial unconformities are used widely for palaeoenvironmental and palaeogeographic reconstructions, sequence stratigraphy and petroleum reservoir assessments. Recognition and interpretation of these unconformities, particularly those with associated palaeosols, may be problematic in Lower and Middle Palaeozoic carbonate successions because of the collective effect of limited land plant development, superficial similarities between some pedogenic and marine features, and overprinting by later diagenesis. The isolated Judy Creek reef complex in the Lower Frasnian Swan Hills Formation in west‐central Alberta, Canada, contains two subaerial unconformities, R0.5 and R4, which formed as a consequence of relative sea‐level falls of at least regional scale. Deposits beneath these unconformities have distinctive palaeosol and palaeokarst features. The lower unconformity, R0.5, occurs at the top of a progradational reefal phase of stromatoporoid rudstones–floatstones and peloidal packstones–grainstones and has been recognized in at least one other isolated Swan Hills reef complex (Snipe Lake). Palaeosol–palaeokarst profiles beneath this unconformity extend as deep as ca 2 m below the unconformity. These profiles are characterized by the presence of small rhizoliths, laminar calcretes, ferroan dolomite glaebules, desiccation cracks, breccias, green shale and solution vugs. The upper unconformity, R4, occurs at the top of a backstepping phase of reef growth and has been correlated widely between isolated reefs and carbonate banks on both the western and eastern shelves of the Central Alberta Basin. Palaeosol–palaeokarst profiles, extending as deep as ca 9·5 m beneath the R4 unconformity, are distinguished by abundant, sub‐horizontal desiccation cracks filled with green shale, occurring in peloidal wackestones–packstones. Comparison of the R0.5 and R4 profiles indicates that the major intrinsic controls on the development and modification of the profiles are parent‐material lithology, particularly the prior degree of induration and particle size; the low topographic relief at the top of the reef interior; and limited vegetation of the exposed reef top due to unfavourable growth conditions and geographic isolation. In addition to climate, the major extrinsic controls are the extent of relative sea‐level fall, estimated to be 2·5 to 3 m and 13 to 14 m associated with the R0.5 and R4 unconformities, respectively, and the degree of shoreface erosion during the ensuing marine transgression, estimated to be up to 3 m. This study highlights the complex interplay of mainly physical and chemical processes influencing the formation of subaerial unconformities in carbonate environments during the Devonian, before major evolutionary innovations among vascular land plants led to more intense pedogenesis.
Effects of weeding and nitrogen treatmerts on maize yields in Nigeria
Authors: REMISON S. U.
Published: September 2010

The effects of handweeding and of varying timing of applications of nitrogen were examined in three experiments on maize grown in Southern Nigeria. At two weedy sites which had been cropped for several years, weed competition lowered maize yields by 50% and two hand weedings at 3 and 7 weeks after planting were as satisfactory as more extended weedings. At the third site after an extended fallow period weed competition was not severe. Splitting of nitrogen application generally had no advantage over a single application of the same amount. There was no significant interaction between nitrogen and weeding treatments at any site.
Inhibition of seed germination and early stem elongation of Cuscuta australis by ethofumesate
Authors: GIANNOPOLITIS C. N.
Published: September 2010

Hmergence of dodder (Cuseuta australis R. Br.) was unexpecledly prevented in plois of a sugarbeet field where ethofumesate had been applied at 1.6 Kg/ha. Appropriate laboratory tesls have shown that ethofumesate is a potent inhibitor of dodder seed germination (I D50= 10 μg/ml) and of early stem elongalion (ID50= 73μg/ ml). Wheat. a standard susceptible species to field applications of ethofumesate, is equally susceptible to inhibition of stem elongation (ID50=68 μg/ml), but it is far less susceptible to inhibition of germination (I D50=188 μg/ml). Compared to propyzamide. ethofiimesate is a stronger inhibitor of germination. Metolachlor and Hercules 22234 [eihyl N‐chloroacetyl‐N‐(2,6‐diethylphenyl) aminoacetate] are also active in inhibiting dodder germination and stem elongation, but at higher concentrations than ethofumesate. Current methods of controlling dodder in sugarheets may be improved with inclusion of pre‐emergence use of ethofumesate.
The efficacy of several herbicides in the vineyard and their toxicity to grapevines
Authors: GUR A. , GIL Y. , BRAVDO B.
Published: September 2010

Application of several herbicides and a combination of herbicides in two vineyards resulted in a perfect control of Bermuda grass by glyphosate and mixed or alternate applications of MSMA and dalapon. Johnson grass was eliminated by MSM A with and without the addition of dalapon. Dalapon combined with MSMA reduced the yield of the grapevines and their growth, as measured by the weight of pruning. Yields were also significantly reduced by aminotriazole and in one vineyard also by simazine. Reduced vegetative growth was caused by MSMA and glyphosphate.

MSMA and glyphosphate reduced the chlorophyll content of the grape leaves and the reducing sugar content of the canes in winter. Amino triazole reduced the reducing sugar content of both leaves and canes and the nitrogen content of the canes. In one vineyard simazine reduced the chlorophyll content of the leaves and increased the nitrogen content of the canes. MSMA alone and in combination with dalapon increased the arsenic content of leaves, canes and fruits of grapevines. Arsenic levels were the highest in the canes, but still did not exceed 0.6 ppm. Levels were lowest in fruits and did not exceed 0.1 ppm. Dalapon reduced the chlorophyll content of leaves in June and increased it in July. It also affected the reducing sugar content of leaves and canes without affecting yields or growth.
Factors affecting glyphosate activity in Imperata cylindrica (L) Beau, and Cyperus votundus L. I. Effect of soil moisture
Authors: MOOSAVI‐NIA H. , DORE J.
Published: September 2010

Established Greenhouse grown plants of cogongrass Imperata cylindrica (L) Beauv.) and purple nutsedge (Cyperus rotundusL.) were given three different soil moisture regimes; field capacity, moderate stress and extreme stress, followed 6 weeks later by glyphosate [(N‐phosphonomeihyl) glydne] applications to the shoots at 0.2,0.4 and 0.8 kg/ha for Imperata and 0.3,0.6 and 1.12 kg/ha for Cyperus. Field capacity watering stimulated most vegetative growth in hoth species. Glyphosate given at field capacity decreased shoot dry weight in both species, and rhizome length, rhizome dry weight and total carbohydrate in Imperata and total number of tuber‐bulbs in Cyperus. In contrast. at extreme soil moisture stress, glyphosate showed reduced activity which appeared to be related to the physiological and morphological behaviour of the plants arising from the drought trealment. Application of waier to the roots of the plants grown at soil moisture stress. I week before and I week afler glypbosate spraying, enhanced glyphosate activity, probably because of the recovery of processes disturbed by ibe soil moisture deficit.
Simulation of the persistence of atrazine, linuron and metolachlor in soil at different sites in the USA
Authors: WALKER A. , ZIMDAHL R. L.
Published: September 2010

The effects of soil temperature and soil moisture content on the rates of degradation of atrazine, linuron and metolachlor were measured in the laboratory in soil from different sites in the USA. Persistence of the herbicides was measured in the same soils in the field during the summers of 1978 and 1979. Weather records from the different sites for the periods of the field experiments were used in conjunction with appropriate constants derived from the laboratory data in a computer program to simulate persistence in the field. There was a general tendency for the model to overestimate the observed soil residues. For example, with atrazine, 40 of the 48 measured residues were lower than those predicted by the model; seven were more than 30% below and two were more than 50% below. With metolachlor, 16 of the 48 measured residues were more than 30% below those predicted and six were more than 50% below; almost identical results were obtained with linuron. When the model overestimated late‐season residues by a large amount, the discrepancies between predicted and observed data were usually apparent from early in the experiment. Possible reasons for the discrepancies are discussed.
Weed control in direct‐seeded lowland rice under poor water control conditions
Authors: AKOBUNDU I. OKEZIE
Published: September 2010

Several herbicides applied singly and in combination were evaluated for weed control and for their effects on crop yield in direct‐seeded lowland rice under poor water management conditions characteristic of the conditions in which lowland rice is grown by most farmers in West Africa. Several herbicides including cyperquat at 3.0 kg/ha, a mixture of cyperquat and 2,4‐D at 2.0 + 0.5 kg/ha, bentazon at 2.0 kg/ha and avirosan satisfactorily controlled sedges in the 3‐year study. Crop yield was consistently high in plots where weeds were controlled with post‐emergence application of MCPA + propanil at 1.0+1.7 kg/ha, propanil + thiobencarb 2.2+1.2 kg/ha, oxadiazon 1.5 kg/ha, bentazon 2.0, granular 2,4‐D at 1.0 kg/ha, and a pre‐emergence application of bifenox at 2.0 kg/ha. Crop yields in plots treated with these herbicides were generally better than with two hand‐weedings.
Germination of Orobanche crenata Forsk. seeds in vitro
Authors: PIETERSE A. H.
Published: September 2010

The effects of calcium hypochlorite [Ca(OCl)2] and gibberellic acid (GA), both in combination and separately, were studied on the germination of Orobanche crenata seeds. Hypochlorite was applied either before or after the conditioning phase for periods up to 150 min. The seeds were exposed to GA during the conditioning phase. After conditioning the seeds were exposed to either the synthetic germination stimulant GR 7, flax root exudate (FRE) or distilled water.

GR 7 exploited the germination potential of O. crenata better than FRE and this in turn better than water. In the presence of GR 7 or FRE the number of germinating seeds generally increased when the seeds were briefly (5–20 min) exposed to hypochlorite. In the absence of GR 7 and FRE, hypochlorite only increased germination if the seeds were treated during medium‐long periods (20–60 min) after conditioning. If GR 7 or FRE were not applied the germination percentage was usually significantly higher when conditioning was done in the presence of GA.
Influence of picloram on Cirsium arvense (L.) Scop, control with glyphosate
Authors: O'SULLIVAN P.A. , KOSSATZ V.C.
Published: September 2010

Low rates of picloram in mixture with glyphosate provided a rapid enhancement of the onset of injury to the shoots of Cirsium arvense (Canada thistle or creeping thistle) under field (0.07+1.0 and 0.07+1.5 kg ha−1) and greenhouse (0.035+0.42 and 0.07+0.84 kg ha−1) conditions. Picloram slightly reduced the amount of 14C‐glyphosate absorbed at 24 and 48 but not 72 h after treatment. Movement of 14C‐glyphosate from the treated leaves to the shoot apex, remainder of the shoot and roots was reduced in the presence of picloram. Necrosis of the treated leaves above the treated spots was evident, presumably indicating acropetal movement of either or both herbicides. With the picloram + glyphosate mixtures there was increased shoot regrowth over glyphosate alone at 1 year after treatment under field, and with certain mixtures at 18 days and 4 weeks after treatment under greenhouse conditions. Following application of the mixtures, accumulation of glyphosate in the shoots may be responsible for the enhanced onset of shoot injury while failure of enough glyphosate to translocate to, and cause death of, the roots may be responsible for the increased shoot regrowth over glyphosate alone.
Competition between Avena sterilis ssp. macrocarpa Mo. and cultivars of wheat
Authors: PONCE R. GONZÁLEZ
Published: September 2010

A pot experiment was done in the glasshouse to study the competition between Avena sterilis ssp. macrocarpa Mo. and six wheat cultivars of different lengths of growth cycle. The competitiveness of wild oat was similar for all six wheat cultivars with respect to grain weight, straw weight, number of ears and total accumulation of nitrogen. The cultivar with the longest cycle was the most affected by wild oat competition as regards height, because a large part of its stem extension and some of the heading took place after the panicles of wild oat had expanded. Wild oat competition with wheat plants was greater than the competition among wheat plants themselves. The wild oat had a similar tolerance to all the wheat cultivars.
Analyse expérimentale des effets de concurrence d'une graminée adventice dans un blé de printemps en relation avec le désherbage
Authors: CAUSSANEL J. P. , KAFIZ B. , CARTERON A.
Published: September 2010

Dans une expérience de plein champ, où tous les facteurs déographiques et génétiques de concurrence étaient déterminés, des densités différentes d'une variété d'avoine de printemps (espèce considérée comme une graminée adventice) ont étéétablies dans une culture de blé de printemps. Sur la moitié des parcelles du dispositif expérimental, l'avoine a été détruite par une application de diclofopméthyl au stade 3 talles du blé. Les mauvaises herbes dicotylédones ont été désherbées soit à la même date que celle du traitement au diclofopméthyl (traitement précoce), soit deux semaines plus tard (traitement tardif). Les poids secs de la plants cultivée el des adventices ont été mesurés plusieurs fois au cours du cycle de la culture sur des échantillons. Toutes les densités de l'avoine de printemps ont réduit le rendement et certaines composantes du rendement du blé en fonction du traitement herbicide: les rendements du blé ont été moins diminués sur les parcelles traitées que sur les parcelles témoins, les mauvaises herbes dicotylédones ont été mieux détruites par le traitement précoce que par le traitement tardif au 2,4‐D. D'après les résultats oblenus, l'existence d'interactions herbicides est susceptible de modifier les effets de compétition adventice.
Effects of herbicide and timing of removal on interference between barley and weeds
Authors: ISMAIL A. M. A. , HASSAN A. H. A.
Published: September 2010

Field experiments were done during the rainy season of 1984–85 and 1985–86 at Harma, Qatar. A weed survey of barley fields was conducted with the primary purpose of identifying the weed vegetation present. The effects of time of hand‐weeding and of application of the herbicide metoxuron on the yield and yield components of barley were studied. Removing weeds at 15,30,45 and 60 days after sowing gave yields similar to that of the clean‐weeded check. Neither a critical period nor a threshold density below which no yield loss occurred were observed. Metoxuron (1,2 and 3 kg ha−1) gave good to excellent broad‐leaved and grass‐weed control. The use of this herbicide at the rate of 1 kg ha−1 showed considerable promise.
Control of Galium aparine (cleavers) in winter cereals with mecoprop alone or with ioxynil plus bromoxynil
Authors: LUTMAN P. J. W. , THORNTON M. E. , LOVEGROVE A. W.
Published: September 2010

A series of eleven field experiments over two seasons investigated the control of Galium aparine (cleavers) with mecoprop and a proprietary mixture of ioxynil plus bromoxynil. Applications of mecoprop (2⋅4 kg a.e. ha−1) between December and March gave variable results but a mixture of ioxynil + bromoxynil (0⋅6 kg a.i. ha−1) and mecoprop improved control up to at least 90%, at most sites. Applications of mecoprop alone in April were most effective and frequently achieved more than 90% control. In May, when the G. aparine plants were very large, it was less successful. The reasons for the environmental effects on performance are discussed. Preliminary examination of the effect of soil temperature on mecoprop activity indicates that the reliability of control increases with increasing temperature (0–12°C). An average of 94% control was achieved when soil temperatures were greater than 6°C. La destruction de Galium aparine (Gaillet) dans les cereales d'hiver avec du mecoprop seul ou avec ioxynil plus bromoxynil
Regenerative capacity of rhizomes and tubers from two populations of Helianthus tuberosus L. (Jerusalem artichoke)
Authors: SWANTON C. J. , CAVERS P. B.
Published: September 2010

The regenerative responses of rhizomes and tubers from two populations of Helianthus tuberosus L. to burial and fragmentation were studied in field experiments. The regeneration of both populations varied with planting depth and stage of growth at which fragmentation occurred. Shoots of both populations emerged from rhizomes or tubers planted to depths of 30 cm. The percentage of tubers that regenerated was higher than that of rhizomes, particularly from deeper planting depths. The regeneration from rhizomes and tubers of a riverbank population was greater than that of a‘weedy’population. Rhizomes and tubers from both populations that had failed to produce shoots I year after planting were found to have decomposed completely. The significance of these results in relation to the distribution and control of H. tuberosus is discussed.
Dormancy studies in three populations of Poa annua L. seeds
Authors: STANDIFER L. C. , WILSON P. W.
Published: September 2010

Seeds of Poa annua from original collections in Louisiana, Maryland and Wisconsin were grown together in Louisiana over a 3‐year period. The freshly harvested seeds and samples stored in moist soil at 30°C were tested for germination at a range of temperatures to compare dormancy and germination characteristics. Seeds of the Louisiana population were dormant over the germination temperature range of 5–25°C, and imbibed storage for 2 weeks did not break dormancy. Freshly harvested seeds of the Maryland population germinated well (78%) at 10°C. With 1 week of imbibed storage at 30°C, germination was good over the range from 5 to 15°C and near 50% at 20°C. Storage for 2 weeks had little further effect. Freshly harvested seeds of two Wisconsin populations germinated above 50% throughout the range of temperatures, and imbibed storage for 2 weeks at 30°C had no effect on germination. The variations in the dormancy of freshly harvested seeds and the varying responses of dormancy breaking from storing imbibed seeds at 30°C suggests that these populations have adapted to avoid high summer temperatures in Louisiana and Maryland but to grow as a summer annual in Wisconsin.
A high temperature requirement for after ripening of imbibed dormant Poa annua L. seeds
Authors: STANDIFER L. C. , WILSON P. W.
Published: September 2010

Freshly harvested seeds of Poa annua L. collected in south Louisiana were stored in moist soil at seven temperatures between 5°C and 35°C. At monthly intervals, seed lots were removed and germinated at each of the seven temperatures. Seed were dormant for at least 1 month at all test temperatures. Seeds stored for 2 months at 30 and 35°C showed conditional dormancy; there was 100% germination at 10 or 15°C, and poorer germination at 5 or 20°C. Seeds started to lose viability after 2 months at 35°C and were dead after 7 months. In seeds stored at 10–30°C, there were increased percentages and a wider range of germination temperatures as storage time or storage temperatures increased. Seeds stored at 10°C remained dormant for 9 months, but by 12 months of storage the seeds germinated only at 5 or 10°C. Nearly all seeds stored at the same temperatures in air dry soil remained dormant for 6 months, regardless of storage temperature. These results differ from other reports of low temperatures breaking seed dormancy in Poa annua L. and suggest an adaptation to subtropical climates.
Inheritance of resistance to paraquat in barley grass Hordeum glaucum Steud.
Authors: ISLAM A. K. M. R. , POWLES S. B.
Published: September 2010

Two biotypes of the grass weed barley grass (Hordeum glaucum), one resistant and the other susceptible to the herbicide paraquat, were studied along with their F1, F2 and F3 progeny to determine the inheritance of paraquat resistance. The plants were sprayed with 50–200 g a.i. paraquat ha−1. These concentrations killed the susceptible type. The data obtained from segregating populations indicated that paraquat resistance in H. glaucum is controlled by a single nuclear gene with incomplete dominance.
Seed survival and patterns of seedling emergence studies of Rottboellia cochinchinensis (Lour.) W.D. Clayton in cultivated soils
Authors: BRIDGEMOHAN P. , BRATHWAITE R.A.I. , MCDAVID C. R.
Published: September 2010

The longevity of buried Rottboellia cochinchinensis (Lour.) W.D. Clayton seed represents a major survival mechanism for the weed, enabling the persistence of a continuing source of weed seeds in crop land. The pattern of seed persistence and depletion of R. cochinchinensis in cultivated maize soils was investigated by means of (1) studies on the effect of depth and duration of burial on the viability of the weed seeds, (2) quantitative estimation of the seed population and viability in cultivated fields, and (3) the periodicity of emergence and effects of cultivation on seed germination both in the field and in the greenhouse. The results indicated that the mode of persistence was innate (8.5%) and enforced (35%) dormancy after 1 year of burial, and that the persistency component of the seed population on cultivated soils ranged from 40.60%. The weed was able to remain viable at depths of 45 cm, indicating an excellent mechanism of escaping the effects of most soil‐applied herbicides, and it was shown that tillage increases the depletion rate of the weed seed reserve by 32% per year.
Uptake and efflux of chlorimuron ethyl by excised soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) root tissue†
Authors: NANDIHALLI U. B. , BHOWMIK P. C.
Published: September 2010

Chlorimuron ethyl uptake into excised soybean root tissue was investigated using 14C‐labelled herbicide. Chlorimuron ethyl accumulated in the root tissue, reaching a maximum concentration after 2 h and then declining over the next 2 h. The herbicide did not accumulate against a concentration gradient. The tissue concentration was linearly correlated with the external herbicide concentration. The Q10 between 15 and 25°C was 1.6. Addition of KCN and anoxia reduced uptake. The efflux of 14C that had accumulated in root tissue segments occurred in two phases: a rapid phase with a T½ value of 6.3 min and a slower phase with a T½ value of 172 min. Chlorimuron ethyl uptake and efflux in excised soybean root tissue closely resembled that previously observed in velvetleaf, a sensitive weed species.
Alkoholyse und saure Hydrolyse von Chlorsulfuron
Authors: SABADIE J.
Published: September 2010

L'alcoolyse du chlorsulfuron (méthanol, étha‐nol) implique seulement la fonction urée de la molécule. La formation de carbamate permet de postuler l'existence d'isocyanate intermédiaire. Deux voies de dégradation sont observées au cours de l'hydrolyse du chlorsulfuron en solution aqueuse acide: hydrolyse de la fonction urée et hydrolyse du substituant méthoxy. L'augmentation de la température (25 à 55°C) favorise la vitesse de conversion et l'hydrolyse de la fonction urée. L'abaissement du pH (6 à 2,4) accé1ère fortement le processus et diminue son énergie d'activation sans en modifier la sélectivité. Les effets d'autres facteurs (cations de métaux de transition, argiles) demeurent généralement limités.
Predicting the competitive effects of weed and crop density on weed biomass, weed seed production and crop yield in wheat
Authors: WILSON B. J. , WRIGHT K. J. , BRAIN P. , CLEMENTS M. , STEPHENS E.
Published: September 2010

Competition between winter‐sown wheat and Viola arvensis Murray or Papaver rhoeas L. was studied in two experiments in two successive years. The effects of varying crop and weed density were modelled in terms of weed biomass over time, weed seed production and crop yield. Biomass model parameters, representing maximum weed biomass and intra‐ and interspecific competition, were obtained for different assessment dates, enabling biomass levels to be predicted during the two growing seasons. Weed biomass declined, and its maximum level was reached earlier, with increasing crop density. Intraspecific competition was higher in the absence than in the presence of crop, increasing with time and with weed density. Halving the wheat population increased June biomass of V. arvensis by 74% and of P. rhoeas by 63%. Crop yield losses with increasing weed density were greater with low than with medium and high crop populations. P. rhoeas was significantly more competitive than V. arvensis in both years. Weed biomass in 1989 responded more to reductions in crop density following the milder winter of 1988/89 than in the previous year; however crop yields were less affected in 1989 due to summer drought, restricting late weed growth and competition. Weed seed production was related to weed biomass; the progressive lowering of crop density increased seed production, and both species were very prolific in the absence of crop. By combining models, seed production could be derived for a given competitive effect on the crop. Threshold weed populations, based on low weed levels that are not economic to control, could then be equated with the accompanying weed seed production.
Factors affecting benfuresate activity against purple nutsedge (Cyperus rotundas L.)
Authors: FISHLER A. , CASELEY J. C. , VARSANO RINA , NEGBI M. , RUBIN B.
Published: September 2010

Benfuresate (2‐3‐dihydro‐3,3‐dimethylbenzofu‐ran‐5‐yl ethanesulfonate) is a selective herbicide for the control of purple nutsedge in cotton. Under outdoor conditions, purple nutsedge was sensitive to benfuresate incorporated in soil up to eight days after initiation of shoot sprouting from the tuber. Older seedlings recovered from the damage. During the period of susceptibility to benfuresate, young shoots more sensitive than the roots. Under controlled environmental conditions, benfuresate applied directly to apical buds developing from the tuber caused severe damage to the treated bud and induced abrupt development of axillary buds. Negligible amounts of the applied herbicide were translocated from the treated part to the other buds and roots. Application of the herbicide to fully developed leaves had no effect, probably because of its rapid metabolism and low basipetal mobility. Its relatively high volatility may also contribute to its low foliar post‐emergence activity. Tubers also absorbed herbicide vapours. Root uptake of 14C‐benfuresate resulted in a rapid accumulation of 14C in the shoot, which had no effect on the purple nutsedge plant, regardless of concentration. The herbicide is rapidly converted, mainly to a non‐phytotoxic polar product. These results may explain the high sensitivity of the weed to benfuresate at early growth stages, and the lack of sensitivity in mature plants.
Mikania micrantha H. B. K. in China – an overview
Authors: Zhang L Y , Ye W H , Cao H L , Feng H L
Published: September 2010

As one of the worst invasive weeds in the world, Mikania micrantha H. B. K. spread to southern China after 1910 but without any natural enemies. Since the 1980s it has started to spread and invade widely. The weed has caused significant damage to many ecosystems in Guangdong province in recent years. This paper reviews the research in China on this weed, including its description, history of introduction together with information from morphological and physiological studies. The distribution of this invasive plant in China has been mapped and is presented together with damage being caused and analyses of soil types infested. The measures taken by the Chinese government for prevention and elimination are also discussed. Chinese scientists are now looking for effective biocontrol options to deal with this deleterious plant. Several native insects, mites and fungi have been reported to be able to control the reproduction of this weed in China, but no natural control has been achieved. Cuscuta sp., a native autoecious vine has recently been shown to suppress the growth of M. micrantha. Three major causes for the massive spread of this weed in southern China are presented together with recommendations for future control activities.
The competitive interactions between winter barley andAvena sterilisare site‐specific
Authors: RUIZ D , BARROSO J , HERNAIZ P , FERNÁNDEZ‐QUINTANILLA C
Published: September 2010

Competition between winter barley andAvena sterilisis expected to depend on the specific conditions present in a given site. Considering that site conditions may be variable within a field, we hypothesised that the lower densities ofA. sterilisfrequently observed under more favourable soil conditions can be attributed to the improved growth and competitiveness of the barley crop under those conditions. Artificial populations ofA. steriliswere established at three sites with different soil properties, both in the absence and the presence of a barley crop. Plant density, total biomass, dry weight per plant, seed production and seed per plant production were measured at different times in two growing seasons.Avena sterilisproved to be a generalist species when growing in monoculture, with similar seed production, regardless of the site conditions. However, when growing with the crop, differences in growth and seed production were observed at the different sites under some climatic conditions. The effect of the crop onA. sterilisbiomass and seed production was more pronounced at the sites with finer textures and higher organic matter and nitrogen contents, suggesting that barley site‐specific competitive ability may contribute to limiting weed populations in favourable soils.
Increasing weed flora in Danish arable fields and its importance for biodiversity
Authors: ANDREASEN C , STRYHN H
Published: September 2010

A number of political initiatives have been implemented to meet growing concerns about negative side effects of the intensification of land‐use practice over the past 25 years. Declining species diversity and abundance and pollution of the environment have been reported worldwide. In order to assess the overall effect on wild flora of the changing management of arable land, national surveys are necessary. Surveys of the weed flora in Danish arable fields were conducted in 1987–89 and 2001–04. The frequency of common weed species in spring barley, spring rape, winter rye, winter wheat and grass leys was compared between time periods. Weed frequency increased overall during the interval. Species that are of particular importance as food sources for invertebrates and birds increased considerably in some of the crops. The frequency of some grass species increased remarkably, possibly because of increased areas of winter crops. Some perennial weeds also became more frequent, probably caused by less mechanical weed control and a reduction in the use of specific herbicides. The dominant weed species in 2001–04, with frequency higher than 10%, were largely the same as in 1987–89, but included three new species in 2001–04. Only a few species occurred less frequently in 2001–04 than in 1987–89 and only in some crops. As common weed species make up an important food reservoir for wildlife, new trends in the management of arable land in Denmark seem to have led to more biodiversity.
Local spread of the invasive Cyperus esculentus (Cyperaceae) inferred using molecular genetic markers
Authors: DODET M , PETIT R J , GASQUEZ J
Published: September 2010

Over the last 20 years Cyperus esculentus (yellow nutsedge) has become invasive in south‐west France. Because the genetic variation of invasive species can affect the success of management strategies, amplified fragment length polymorphism markers were used to assess the amount and distribution of genetic diversity in this clonally reproducing weed. Population samples of C. esculentus were collected mainly in south‐west France, with 21 samples of C. eragrostis also included in this study. A total of 113 polymorphic loci were identified (50% of the bands scored) in C. esculentus. A low level of genetic diversity (0.140) was detected, of which 95% were partitioned among sites. The regional patterns of variation could have been caused by rapid range expansion of clones propagated by harvesting machinery. Implications of the high clonality detected in C. esculentus are discussed in the context of the development of weed management strategies: because reproduction of the weed in Haute Lande occurs by tubers only, vegetable production should be reduced in infested areas.
Cranio‐lenticulo‐sutural dysplasia associated with defects in collagen secretion
Authors: Boyadjiev SA , Kim S‐D , Hata A , Haldeman‐Englert C , Zackai EH , Naydenov C , Hamamoto S , Schekman RW , Kim J
Published: September 2010

Boyadjiev SA, Kim S‐D, Hata A, Haldeman‐Englert C, Zackai EH, Naydenov C, Hamamoto S, Schekman RW, Kim J. Cranio‐lenticulo‐sutural dysplasia associated with defects in collagen secretion.

Cranio‐lenticulo‐sutural dysplasia (CLSD) is a rare autosomal recessive syndrome manifesting with large and late‐closing fontanels and calvarial hypomineralization, Y‐shaped cataracts, skeletal defects, and hypertelorism and other facial dysmorphisms. The CLSD locus was mapped to chromosome 14q13‐q21 and a homozygous SEC23A F382L missense mutation was identified in the original family. Skin fibroblasts from these patients exhibit features of a secretion defect with marked distension of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), consistent with SEC23A function in protein export from the ER. We report an unrelated family where a male proband presented with clinical features of CLSD. A heterozygous missense M702V mutation in a highly conserved residue of SEC23A was inherited from the clinically unaffected father, but no maternal SEC23A mutation was identified. Cultured skin fibroblasts from this new patient showed a severe secretion defect of collagen and enlarged ER, confirming aberrant protein export from the ER. Milder collagen secretion defects and ER distention were present in paternal fibroblasts, indicating that an additional mutation(s) is present in the proband. Our data suggest that defective ER export is the cause of CLSD and genetic element(s) besides SEC23A may influence its presentation.
High antigen levels do not preclude B‐cell tolerance induction to α1,3‐Gal via mixed chimerism
Authors: Haspot Fabienne , Bardwell Philip D. , Zhao Guiling , Sykes Megan
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  Background:  Studies of bone marrow transplantation (BMT) from wild‐type mice or rats to α1,3‐galactosyltransferase (GalT) knockout mice have demonstrated that induction of mixed chimerism tolerizes not only T cells, but also natural antibody‐producing B cells, even across xenogeneic barriers. Given that rodent cells express lower levels of the αGal epitope than the more clinically relevant porcine species, the consequences of exposure to cells expressing high levels of αGal on the ability to induce B‐cell tolerance are unknown.

Methods:  The effects on chimerism and anti‐αGal B‐cell tolerance of an i.p. injection of 109 porcine RBC were evaluated in GalT knockout mice receiving wild‐type allogeneic BMT after non‐myeloablative conditioning with T‐cell depleting monoclonal antibodies, thymic irradiation, and low‐dose total body irradiation.

Results:  Achievement of mixed chimerism and tolerance of anti‐αGal‐producing B cells was not affected by exposure to high‐density αGal at the time of BMT. The absence of induced anti‐αGal or anti‐pig antibody responses in conditioned control mice suggested that the B‐cell xeno‐response to pig is T‐cell‐dependent.

Conclusion:  High αGal density on pig cells might not preclude the ability to achieve tolerance of pre‐existing αGal‐reactive human B cells via induction of mixed chimerism. This strategy has the potential to induce B‐cell tolerance to non‐αGal epitopes, against which natural antibodies have been found in the sera of healthy humans.
Establishment of genetically modified pig animal models for xenotransplantation
Authors: Klymiuk N. , Kessler B. , Kurome M. , Wünsch A. , Wolf E.
Published: September 2010

Due to the shortage of available human donor organs, xenotransplantation is an alternative to allotransplanation. Pig is the favoured donor animal because of its similarities to man in size, anatomy and physiology as well as ethical reasons and questions of infectivity. On the other hand the genetic distance between human and porcine species requires comprehensive precautions to overcome immunological hurdles. Genetic alteration of the porcine genome is preferred to diminish rejection mechanisms rather than exposing human recipients to severe immunological treatment. Since the invention of somatic cloning, nuclear transfer is the most prominent way to establish transgenic large animals. However, the generation of a transgenic animal model is still a bold venture in costs of time and money. We have established somatic cloning of pigs and the generation of transgenic fibroblasts at our institute for transgenic pig production in a feasible extent.