bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of cow slurry N on herbage productivity, efficiency of N utilization and on white clover content in a natural sward in the Basque Country, Spain
Authors: ESTAVILLO J. M. , GONZALEZ‐MURUA C. , BESGA G. , RODRIGUEZ M.
Published: April 2006

The effect of cow slurry N on productivity and white clover content was compared with that of mineral fertilization in a natural grassland sward. Fertilizer was applied at two different N rates as split applications of ammonium nitrate, or as cow slurry (145 or 290 kg N ha−1 in the first year and 120 or 240 kg N ha−1 In the second year)‐ In the first year, fertilizer N produced higher dry matter (DM) yields than the slurry treatments. Nitrogen efficiency and clover content reduction were higher for the mineral treatments, the efficiency being lower for the higher rate of N application. In the second year, N supplied by the slurry gave the same productivity, N efficiency and white clover content reduction as that from the mineral N fertilization; higher efficiency in the second year being due to favourable weather conditions and low white clover contents. The high N efficiencies of the slurry compared with the fertilizer N treatments were attributed to the dilution of the slurry and to split applications over the year. Yield differences between treatments were due mainly to the grass component of the sward. Competition between grasses and other species, and white clover for mineral N resulted in a reduction in the white clover content in those treatments in which more N was supplied, whether it came from the mineralization of slurry or from the fertilizer N applied.
The influence of weather on the effectiveness of mechanical and chemical conditioning on drying rate of lucerne hay
Authors: AKKHARATH I. , GUPTA M. L. , TULLBERG J. N.
Published: April 2006

Field drying experiments in summer and winter compared the drying rate of lucerne hay cut with a rotary disc mower and mower‐conditioner, with or without 300 1 ha−1 of 2% aqueous potassium carbonate solution sprayed at cutting. Local farm practice was followed in cutting, raking and drying. Statistical analysis showed significant treatment differences in both summer and winter experiments. Mechanical‐cum‐chemical conditioning treatment provided the greatest field drying rate, followed by chemical conditioning alone, mechanical conditioning alone and non‐conditioned luceme, respectively. The effectiveness of mechanical and chemical conditioning treatments was greater in summer than in winter. Under good S.E. Queensland summer conditions, mechanical‐cum‐chemical conditioning would allow hay to be cut and baled on the same day, but at least 4 days were required under cool winter weather conditions.
Interactions between seedlings of perennial ryegrass and white clover cultivars in establishing swards
Authors: COLLINS R. P. , FOTHERGILL M. , RHODES I.
Published: April 2006

Interactions between perennial ryegrass (grass) and white clover (clover) cultivars were investigated at the seedling stage in two experiments: (a) a field experiment in which two clovers, AberHerald and Grasslands Huia, were grown in binary mixture with two grasses, Preference and Ba 10761; (b) a glasshouse experiment in which the same clover/grass combinations were grown in low‐N soil either with (+ N) or without (‐N) added N. In the field experiment both clovers produced larger and more complex seedlings with Preference, and this was particularly evident in Huia. In the glasshouse experiment grass dry‐matter yield was greater in the +N treatment, and this effect increased with time. Clover seedling density and development were suppressed in the +N treatment, and the development of AberHerald was affected more than Huia. Morphological measurements of the clovers showed interactions between clover, grass and N level. In the ‐N treatment Huia plants were larger and more complex than those of AberHerald, but in +N conditions there was little difference between them. Grass cultivar had an effect on clover via N‐level interactions: in +N plants there was no grass effect, but ‐N plants were significantly larger with Preference. Comparison of the root and shoot morphology of the two grasses revealed no obvious differences that would account for these effects.
Breeding and evaluation of new white clover varieties for persistency and higher yields under grazing
Authors: EVANS D. R. , WILLIAMS T. A. , EVANS S. A.
Published: April 2006

Two experiments were established in 1989 and 1990 to evaluate the performance of white clover (Trifolium repens) varieties under grazing, using sheep and cattle, and also under a ‘cutting‐only’ regime. The three potential medium/large‐leaved varieties (AberVantage, AberCrown and AberDai) were selected and evaluated in a breeding programme that emphasized improving yield and persistency under grazing.

In Experiment 1, the potential varieties were sown with two different grass companions, and evaluated under a continuous cattle‐grazing system, representative of their future role in actual farm practice, i.e. a set stocking system. Clover yield of the potential varieties in the second harvest year averaged 1–5 t ha−1 more than the control variety Olwen. Total sward production of AberVantage, AberCrown and AberDai was 2.0–1.4 t ha−1 higher than that of Olwen.

In Experiment 2, clover yields of the three potential varieties averaged 2.1 t more than Olwen in the second harvest year under continuous sheep grazing, but all three were lower yielding than Olwen in the cutting regime.

Both experiments illustrate how the use of grazing treatments during breeding and evaluation can improve the role of white clover varieties.
Chemical composition of Flourensia cernua at four growth stages
Authors: ESTELL R. E. , FREDRICKSON E. L. , HAVSTAD K. M.
Published: April 2006

Tarbush (Flourensia cernua DC) is an abundant Chihuahuan Desert shrub but is used sparingly by livestock. Leaves were removed from forty tarbush plants harvested in each of 3 years during four growth stages: (1) early. (2) mid‐point, (3) late and (4) curtailed growth (ten plants per growth stage each year). Plants were air dried and all leaves were removed. In vitro dry‐matter (DM) disappearance was greater for the early growth stage than other stages (P<005). The fibrous fraction increased with maturity, with neutral detergent fibre (NDF), acid detergent fibre (ADF) arid acid detergent lignin (ADL) contents all less for the early growth stage (P<0 05) than other stages. The latter three growth stages did not differ in NDF or ADF content, but ADL content was lower for the mid‐point growth stage than for the two later stages (P<0–05). Calcium content increased with advancing season (P<0–05), whereas phosphorus concentration exhibited an inverse pattern (P<0–05). Nitrogen (N) content of tarbush was greatest in the early growth stage (P <0–05) and declined substantially thereafter. Soluble N content was greater and acid detergent insoluble N (ADIN) content was lower for early growth (P<005) than other stages. Insoluble N concentration followed a pattern similar to N, declining with advancing season (P<0–05). When expressed as a fraction of total N, insoluble N decreased and soluble N increased with maturity (P<005). Condensed tannin concentration tended (P<0–10) to increase with advancing season. Total phenolic content was lowest for early growth (P<005), and did not differ among the other stages. Chemical analysis revealed tarbush to be relatively high in N concentration. Fibre fractions, ADIN, ADL and condensed tannins were ail generally low whereas total phenolic content of tarbush was quite high. Early use by livestock would be most advantageous in terms of nutrient availability (N, P and in vitro digestibility) and lowest total phenolic concentration. Year‐to‐year variability in chemical composition of tarbush appears to be substantial. It remains to be seen whether overriding intake deterrents would be beneficial to livestock, given the high phenolic concentration in tarbush. Tarbush has several characteristics that make it a suitable model for studying plant‐animal interactions of desert shrubs.
Forage yield and quality from intercropped barley, annual ryegrass and different annual legumes
Authors: Stout D. G. , Brooke B. , Hall J. W. , Thompson D. J.
Published: April 2006

Six annual legumes were evaluated as components of cereal‐grass‐legume intercrops in two experiments at two sites differing in elevation by 789 m. Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) and Westerwolds rye‐grass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) were seeded on all intercrop plots. Dry‐matter (DM) yield, crude protein (CP) and organic matter digestibility (OMD) were measured. DM yield and N content were used to estimate legume N fixation. Experiment 1 was conducted at both sites. At the lower site, Persian clover (Trifolium resupinatum L.) and annual alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) accounted for 70% of the DM yield in harvest 1 (July), increased CP and OMD, but did not affect intercrop yield. They increased harvest 2 (August/September) intercrop yield by 263% and CP concentration by 65 g kg−1 DM. They increased harvest 3 (October) yield by 275% and CP concentration by 78 g kg−1 DM. Inclusion of striate lespedeza (Lespedeza striata) did not affect intercrop yield or quality. Annual legumes failed to establish at the higher elevation site and therefore had no effect on DM yield or forage quality. In Experiment 2, in which the performance of Westerwolds ryegrass was also compared with that of Italian ryegrass, and conducted at the lower site only, Persian clover and berseem clover (T. alexandrinum L.) increased CP of all three of the year's harvests. These two species contributed 29% of the DM yield in the first harvest (July) but did not affect total intercrop yield. They increased harvest 2 (August) yield by 313%. Persian clover increased harvest 3 (October) yield by 318% and berseem clover increased harvest 3 yield by 405%. Barrel medic (Medicago truncatula) and snail medic (M. scutellata) contributed 29% of harvest 1 yield, and increased both DM yield and CP content. Medics did not regrow. Aubade Westerwolds ryegrass contributed a greater percentage of the DM yield than did Maris Ledger Italian ryegrass at harvests 1 and 2. Ryegrass type did not affect total DM yield but did affect forage quality; intercrops containing the Italian ryegrass had higher CP at harvest 2 and higher OMD at harvest 3 than those containing the Westerwolds ryegrass. Over both experiments, at the lower elevation site, stands with Persian clover, berseem clover or alfalfa produced 80% of the yield of barley‐ryegrass receiving 250 kg N ha−1, and 165% of the yield of unfertilized barley‐ryegrass. Berseem and Persian clover fixed about the same amount of N over the growing season; 188 kg N ha−1 in Experiment 1 and 134 kg N ha−1 in Experiment 2.
The effects of temperature on the effluent production potential of grass silage
Authors: O'DONNELL C. , WILLIAMS A. G. , BIDDLESTONE A. J.
Published: April 2006

The effects of temperature on silage effluent production were examined. In the first experiment, samples of perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne) underwent fermentation at 20°C for between 52 and 66 d. The samples were then transferred to rooms at temperatures between 5°C and 27°C. Effluent production during creep consolidation was measured. Increasing temperature resulted in a significant increase in effluent production. There was a strong linear relationship between the mechanical properties of the silage and the amount of effluent produced. In the second experiment, Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum) samples were ensiled at temperatures between 5°C and 25°C. The higher temperature treatments had faster and more extensive fermentations, and produced more effluent than the cooler temperatures. Again, there was a strong linear relationship between the mechanical properties of the silage and the amount of effluent produced. Increasing the temperature at the end of the experiment resulted in no extra effluent production from any treatment except that at 5°C. This indicated that the effects of temperature were evident only while effluent was available for release. The effects of temperature will therefore be most evident in the early stages of ensilage. In both experiments, effluent was released from the higher temperature treatments earlier. This was probably due to the effects of temperature on the viscosity of the effluent and to fermentation effects in the second experiment. In both experiments, the increase in effluent production with temperature was equivalent to the effects to be expected from decreasing the herbage dry matter concentration by between 3% and 4%.
Differential red clover germplasm response to defoliation and fungicide application
Authors: VENUTO B. C. , JOOST R. E. , HINTZ R. W. , CHANEY C. R.
Published: April 2006

A primary limitation to the use of red clover (Trifolium pratense L.) in the temperate zones is poor persistence. The objective of this research was to evaluate the effects of defoliation and fungicide application on the yield and persistence responses of twelve diverse red clover germplasms. Treatments consisted of reduced defoliation with the application of the systemic fungicide, propiconazole (RDF), reduced defoliation (RD) and a full‐season defoliation control. Dry‐matter yields were recorded for 3 years and stand density was determined during the third harvest year and again 2 years later. By the third harvest season, stand densities were 52% and 13·5% greater for treatments RDF and RD than the control. After 5 years, stand density on these two treatments was on average 68% greater than the control. RDF plots outyielded RD plots for the second and third harvest years, but both had lower forage yields than the control. Germplasm by treatment interactions were significant for stand density and yield by the third year. RD treatments out‐yielded the control by the third year for only two germplasms, the experimental lines FL‐MTC and FL6‐EF. The treatments affected yield and persistence and enabled the identification of significant differences in germplasm response.
Why do inhibitors develop? Principles of and factors influencing the risk for inhibitor development in haemophilia
Authors: ASTERMARK J.
Published: April 2006

Summary.  The formation of inhibitory alloantibodies is, in the postinfectious era, the most severe and costly complication of replacement therapy in patients with haemophilia. The complexity of the immune response to the infused factor becomes more and more obvious as knowledge in the area increases. Antibodies develop as a result of a complex multi‐factorial interaction between antigen‐presenting cells, T‐ and B‐lymphocytes. Genetic susceptibility of cell surface molecules, such as the major histocompatibility complex, the T‐cell receptor and cytokine receptors, as well as various immunomodulatory molecules have a major impact on the outcome. In addition, environmental factors probably influence the risk of inhibitor development. The current concept of inhibitor development is reviewed. A better understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms involved will facilitate improvement of therapy in the future, and hopefully provide an opportunity to prevent this complication of treatment.
Recent developments in clinimetric instruments
Authors: BEETON K. , DE KLEIJN P. , HILLIARD P. , FUNK S. , ZOURIKIAN N. , BERGSTROM B.‐M. , ENGELBERT R. H. H. , VAN DER NET J. J. , MANCO‐JOHNSON M. J. , PETRINI P. , VAN DEN BERG M. , ABAD A. , FELDMAN B. M. , DORIA A. S. , LUNDIN B. , POONNOOSE P. M. , JOHN J. A. , KAVITHA M. L. , PADANKATTI S. M. , DEVADARASINI M. , PAZANI D. , SRIVASTAVA A. , VAN GENDEREN F. R. , VACHALATHITI R.
Published: April 2006

Summary.  Assessment of impairment and function is essential in order to monitor joint status and evaluate therapeutic interventions in patients with haemophilia. The improvements in the treatment of haemophilia have required the development of more sensitive tools to detect the more minor dysfunctions that may now be apparent. This paper outlines some of the recent developments in this field. The Haemophilia Joint Health Score (HJHS) provides a systematic and robust measure of joint impairment. The MRI Scoring System has been designed to provide a comprehensive scoring system combining both progressive and additive scales. The Functional Independence Score for Haemophilia (FISH) has been developed to assess performance of functional activities and can be used in conjunction with the Haemophilia Activities List (HAL) which provides a self report measure of function. It is recommended that both measures are evaluated as these tools measure different constructs. Further refinement and testing of the psychometric properties of all of these tools is in progress. More widespread use of these tools will enable the sharing of data across the world so promoting best practice and ultimately enhancing patient care.
Pathogenesis of haemophilic arthropathy
Authors: ROOSENDAAL G. , LAFEBER F. P.
Published: April 2006

Summary.   The pathogenetic mechanism of haemophilic arthropathy is multifactorial and includes degenerative cartilage‐mediated and inflammatory synovium‐mediated components. Intra‐articular blood first has a direct effect on cartilage, as a result of the iron‐catalysed formation of destructive oxygen metabolites (resulting in chondrocyte apoptosis), and subsequently affects the synovium, in addition to haemosiderin‐induced synovial triggering. Both processes occur in parallel, and while they influence each other they probably do not depend on each other. This concept resembles degenerative joint damage as found in osteoarthritis as well as inflammatory processes in rheumatoid arthritis. These processes finally result in a fibrotic and destroyed joint.
Pharmacokinetics of the calcium‐channel blocker diltiazem after a single intravenous dose in horses1
Authors: SCHWARZWALD C. C. , SAMS R. A. , BONAGURA J. D.
Published: April 2006

The pharmacokinetics of diltiazem were determined in eight healthy horses. Diltiazem HCl, 1 mg/kg i.v., was administered over 5 min. Venous blood samples were collected at regular intervals after administration. Plasma concentrations of diltiazem and desacetyldiltiazem were determined by high‐performance liquid chromatography. A second, putative metabolite was detected, but could not be identified due to the lack of an authentic standard. Data were analyzed by nonlinear least‐squares regression analysis. The median (minimum–maximum) peak plasma concentration of diltiazem was 727 (539–976) ng/mL. Plasma diltiazem concentration vs. time data were best described by a two‐compartment model with first‐order drug elimination. The distribution half‐life was 12 (6–23) min, the terminal half‐life was 93 (73–161) min, the mean residence time was 125 (99–206) min, total plasma clearance was 14.4 (10.4–18.6) mL/kg/min, and the volume of distribution at steady‐state was 1.84 (1.46–2.51) L/kg. The normalized ratio of the area under the curve (AUC) of desacetyldiltiazem to theAUCof diltiazem was 0.088 (0.062–0.179). The disposition of diltiazem in horses was characterized by rapid distribution and elimination and a terminal half‐life shorter than reported in humans and dogs. Because of the reported low pharmacologic activity, plasma diltiazem metabolite concentrations were not considered clinically important.
Pharmacokinetics of a novel closantel/ivermectin injection in cattle
Authors: CROMIE L. , FERRY M. , COUPER A. , FIELDS C. , TAYLOR S. M.
Published: April 2006

Two studies are described on the pharmacokinetics of a combination anthelmintic consisting of ivermectin and closantel for use in cattle. In the first, the pharmacokinetics of both active drugs in the combination were compared with the formulation with either ivermectin or closantel removed. No differences in the pharmacokinetics were observed, indicating that neither the absorption nor distribution of ivermectin or closantel in the combination were influenced by the presence of the other. In the second study the pharmacokinetics of ivermectin and closantel in the combination product were compared with control formulations of each. No difference was found between the closantel formulations. With ivermectin it was noted that absorption and excretion were more rapid and Cmax higher in the combination, although the AUC of both formulations were not significantly different.
Late‐onset eccrine angiomatous hamartoma on the forehead
Authors: Jeong Eugene , Park Hyun Jeong , Oh Sin Taik , Lee Jun Young , Cho Baik Kee
Published: April 2006

A 71‐year‐old Korean man presented with a solitary erythematous plaque on his forehead (Fig. 1). It was first noticed by the patient 1 year previously and had slowly increased in size over that time. Physical examination revealed a slightly elevated, 1.5 cm × 1.5 cm erythematous plaque on the upper midline of the forehead. Sweating was not evoked by physical work or emotional stress. There was no pain or tenderness associated with the lesion. The patient had no history of trauma to the forehead. Histopathologic examination of the lesion showed increased numbers of eccrine glands, as well as dilated vascular channels in the deep dermis and subcutaneous tissue (Fig. 2). An immunohistochemical study showed that these eccrine glands stained positively for S‐100 and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), and the vascular channels for the antifactor VIII‐related antigens. These findings are consistent with eccrine angiomatous hamartoma. There was no change in the lesion during the 1‐year follow‐up period.

Asymptomatic erythematous plaque on the upper midline of the forehead

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Increased numbers of eccrine glands and dilated vascular channels in the deep dermis and subcutaneous tissue (hematoxylin and eosin, ×40)

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Angiosarcoma arising in a lymphedematous abdominal pannus with histologic features reminiscent of Kaposi's sarcoma: report of a case and review of the literature
Authors: Shehan James M. , Ahmed Iftikhar
Published: April 2006

Background  Despite common endothelial origins, angiosarcoma and Kaposi's sarcoma are clinically and histologically distinct vascular proliferations. The development of angiosarcoma in a chronically edematous abdominal pannus is extremely uncommon. Similarly, tumors with the combined histologic features of angiosarcoma and Kaposi's sarcoma have rarely been described.

Methods  We reviewed the literature on angiosarcoma arising in a lymphedematous abdominal pannus and evaluated an 81‐year‐old morbidly obese woman who had profound, long‐standing edema of the lower abdominal wall in which an aggressive vascular tumor developed.

Results  Three clinically similar cases were identified in the literature. All patients were women who generally experienced rapid disease progression. In addition, in our patient, sequential cutaneous sampling from different lesional sites demonstrated disparate histologic changes, ranging from those of classic Kaposi's sarcoma to high‐grade angiosarcoma, to areas with combined features of the two tumors. A polymerase chain reaction performed on lesional tissue was negative for human herpesvirus‐8 DNA.

Conclusion  It is important to note that angiosarcoma may develop in the abdomen in association with chronic lymphedema, as demonstrated by the cases noted in this report. In addition, our case highlights the difficulty in differentiating histologically angiosarcoma from Kaposi's sarcoma in some situations, and demonstrates the value of close clinicopathologic correlation and sequential tissue sampling in evaluating problematic cases.
Antimicrobial properties of Dead Sea black mineral mud
Authors: Ma’or Zeev , Henis Yigal , Alon Yaacov , Orlov Elina , Sørensen Ketil B. , Oren Aharon
Published: April 2006

Background  The unique, black, hypersaline mud mined from the Dead Sea shores is extensively used in mud packs, masks, and topical body and facial treatments in spas surrounding the lake, and in cosmetic preparations marketed worldwide, but little is known about its antimicrobiological properties.

Methods  We performed detailed microbial and chemical analysis of Dead Sea mineral mud compounded in dermatological and cosmetic preparations.

Results  Using conventional bacteriological media (with or without salt augmentation), we found surprisingly low numbers of colony‐forming microorganisms in the mud. The highest counts (up to 20,000 colonies per gram, mostly consisting of endospore‐forming bacteria) were obtained on sheep blood agar. Test microorganisms (i.e. Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Propionibacterium acnes, Candida albicans) rapidly lost their viability when added to the mud. Zones of growth inhibition were observed around discs of Dead Sea mud placed on agar plates inoculated with Candida or with Propionibacterium, but not with Staphylococcus or Escherichia. The effect was also found when the mud was sterilized by gamma irradiation. Using 35S‐labeled sulfate as a tracer, bacterial dissimilatory sulfate reduction could be demonstrated at a low rate (0.13 ± 0.03 nmol/cm3.d).

Conclusion  The antibacterial properties of Dead Sea mud are probably owing to chemical and/or physical phenomena. Possible modes of antimicrobial action of the mud in relation to its therapeutic properties are discussed.
Surgical pearl: tissue forceps as a simple and effective instrument for treating skin tags
Authors: Mukhtar Muhammed
Published: April 2006

Skin tags are one of the most common, benign, disfiguring tumors on the flexural aspects of the body of advanced aged and obese people, with higher incidences in females. Various treatment modalities have been advocated for the tags. Even a simple, noninvasive and fast cryotechnique requires approximately 1–3 min for a single skin tag. To hasten the treatment of the tags, tissue forceps have been used as an effective, fast, simple instrument. By utilizing the tissue forceps, 37 skin tags at different parts of body have been treated successfully without cosmetic defects or recurrences at the sites.
Effect of Purine Analogs and Their Interactions with Benzyladenine on Bud Burst and Shoot Growth in Apple Bud Explants
Authors: SINGHA SUMAN , POWELL LOYD E.
Published: April 2006

The purine analogs 8‐azaadenine, 8‐azaguanine, 4‐aminopyrazolo [3,4‐d] pyrimidine, 2‐fluoroadenine and 6‐methylpurine inhibited bud burst in non‐dormant vegetative axillary bud explants obtained from apple (Malus domestica Borkh.) seedlings. The reversal of inhibition was attempted by incorporating increasing concentrations of benzyladenine (BA) in the culture medium. The inhibition caused by 8‐azaadenine and 8‐azaguanine was reduced especially when BA was added to the media at equimolar ratios along with the inhibitors. The inhibition due to 4‐aminopyrazolo [3,4‐d] pyridine was reduced only with equimolar BA, BA was ineffective or only minimally effective in reducing inhibition due to 2‐fluoroadenine and 6‐methypurine. Short pretreatment with 8‐azaadenine and 8‐azaguinine failed to cause any inhibition when explants were subsequently transferred to BA ‐containing medium. The effectiveness of 2‐fluoroadenine and 6‐methylpurine was maintained or only slightly reduced, indicating their long‐term inhibitory action.
Isotachophoretic Analysis of Ions in Guard Cells of Vicia faba
Authors: SHIMADA KEIZO , OGAWA TERUO , SHIBATA KAZUO
Published: April 2006

Isotachophoretic analysis of ions was performed on guard cells of Vicia faba cv. Ryosai Issun with either open or closed stomata. In guard cells of open stomata, K+ and malic acid concentrations were 5–7 and 5–10 times higher, respectively, than in guard cells of closed stomata. The content of citric acid (plus isocitric acid) also increased during stomatal opening, but the increment was smaller than that of malic acid. Sodium ions, phosphoric and glyceric acids were present in low concentrations but did not increase during the opening. Other cations and anions could not be measured because of low concentrations. Malic acid provided 68–79% of the counter anions for the potassium taken up by guard cells during stomatal opening.
Ecophysiology of Salt Excretion in Aeluropus litoralis (Graminae)
Authors: PPLLAK GAD , WAISEL YOAV
Published: April 2006

Various aspects of salt excretion from leaves of Aeluropus were investigated. Salt excretion exhibited an optimum‐type of curve when measured against external salt concentration, while sodium content of the leaves increased linearly. The ‘relative excretion’, i.e. rate of excreted ions: change in leaf ion content, was maximal in the low salt concentration range, and decreased when external sodium chloride concentration increased. Concentration of the excreted droplets was higher than the external concentration when the leaves were exposed to low salt concentrations in the medium, but the reverse occurred when the external salt concentrations were high. The excretion process was sensitive to water‐stress conditions, caused either by high external salt concentrations or by exposure to dry atmosphere. A considerable fraction of the leaf sodium content in salt‐treated leaves was only slightly available for excretion. Salt excretion in Aeluropus was enhanced by light. Such enhancement was indirect and is attributed to the increase of salt transport via transpiration stream.

Selectivity of the salt‐excretion mechanism is in favour of sodium and against potassium. On the other hand, potassium has a high affinity for the accumulation systems within the leaves. The ecological significance of the results is discussed.
14C‐studies on Apple Trees. IX. Seasonal Changes in the Formation of Fruit Constituents and their Subsequent Conversions
Authors: HANSEN POUL
Published: April 2006

The formation and subsequent conversions of 14C‐labelled compounds were followed in fruits of Malus domestica cvs. Golden Delicious and Cox's Orange Pippin after labelling proximate leaves with 14CO2 at different times during the growing season. A few hours after labelling of the leaves, the larger share of fruit 14C was detected in sorbitol. This share descreased rapidly except in the late autumn. When labelling about 1 July (c. 1 month after bloom), 40–60% of the fruit 14C was permanently fixed in the methanol and water insoluble fraction. 25% or more was primarily found in organic acids, but this declined during the season to a few per cent. When labelling at the end of July, the dominating feature was the establishment of a peak of temporarily insoluble 14C, returning back to the soluble form through October and November. This was particularly pronounced in‘Cox's Organe Pippin'. Labelling with 14C at the end of August and at the end of September yielded increasing amounts of 14C in sugars. The labelling of fructose predominated, but as the autumn progressed the amount of label in sucrose increased. This was due to a conversion from 14C‐compounds of older origin as well as to a larger share of the imported assimilates turning into sucrose at this time of the year. During prolonged storage of harvested fruits at 3°C, 14C in fructose increased at the expense of 14C in sucrose.
The Effect of DCMU (3‐(3,4‐dichlorophenyl)‐1,1‐dimethylurea) on Photosynthesis, Glycolate Excretion (‘Photorespiration’) and Amino Acid Metabolism in the Blue‐Green Alga Anacystis
Authors: HALLDAL PER , HOLMEN AASE TURID
Published: April 2006

When photosynthesis of the blue‐green alga Anacystis nidulans was measured as 14CO2‐fixation, the inhibitory effect of DCMU at low concentrations was greatest when mainly Photosystem 1 (PS 1) (excitation at 446 or 687 nm) was operative. At concentrations above 10‐6M the inhibition on 14CO2‐fixation was greatest when mainly Photosystem 2 (PS 2) was operative (excitation at 619). During excitation of PS 1, the excretion of glycolate was stimulated at low concentrations of DCMU (5 × 10‐8M and lower), while higher concentrations inhibited excretion. All concentrations of DCMU inhibited glycolate excretion when mainly PS 2 was excited.

The curves showing the relative effect of DCMU on the two photosystems, measured as PS 1/PS 2, had opposite shapes for 14CO2‐fixation and glycolate excretion. An increase in 14CO2‐fixation coincided with a decrease in glycolate excretion and vice versa. It appears that the increased rate of photosynthesis when mainly PS 1 was operative relative to that when mainly PS 2 was excited, increases the consumption of glycolate in an oxidation process associated with the excitation of PS 1, resulting in less excretion of glycolate to the medium. The influence of DCMU inhibition on labelled amino acid pools connected to the glycolate pathway (glycine‐serine) is quite similar to that for 14CO2‐fixation. At concentrations below 10‐6M DCMU, inhibition of 14CO2‐ incorporation into the amino acids was greatest when PS 1 was excited, while at the higher concentrations tested, inhibition was greater when PS 2 was excited. We conclude that the metabolism of glycine and serine is closely connected to the rate of photosynthesis.
Growth, nutrition, and nitrogen fixation in grey alder at varied rate of nitrogen addition
Authors: INGESTAD TORSTEN
Published: April 2006

Seedlings of grey alder (Alnus incana Moench), nodulated or unnodulated, were investigated at varied relative addition rate of nitrogen. Nitrogen fixation alone, without addition of mineral nitrogen, resulted in an almost optimum nitrogen status but only about half the maximum relative growth rate, probably mainly because of energy costs of nodulation and fixation. The growth deficit due to nodulation was much more than can be explained by the theoretical energy requirement for the amount of nitrogen fixed. Thus, the nitrogen fixation process was not very efficiently used.

The nitrogen fixation rate was strongly stimulated by increasing nitrogen addition rate up to high levels. The fixation rate decreased rapidly close to optimum (maximum relative growth rate) and was negligible at maximum growth. A feed‐back of mineral nitrogen on photosynthesis increased fixation rate with time, and the relative importance of fixation over mineral nitrogen nutrition increased. However, nitrogen fixation, also at maximum rate, supplied only a small proportion of the nitrogen amount required for maximum growth. The optimum nutrient solutions contained comparatively high nitrogen concentrations to secure free access to nitrogen. The nodules were damaged by this treatment, and it is concluded that the nitrogen additions must be adjusted to the current consumption of the plants to avoid an increased external nitrogen concentration.

Strong linear regressions were found between relative growth rate, nitrogen status expressed as percentage content of fresh weight, and relative growth rate in unnodulated seedlings. There was a greater variability in nodulated seedlings than in unnodulated ones, because of the nitrogen fixation. The reactions of unnodulated grey alder were largely the same as previously reported for birch seedlings, but the maximum growth capacity was lower in grey alder. During an initial period of change in the internal nitrogen status, deficiency symptoms appeared, especially in unnodulated seedlings. As in birch, the leaves turned green again at stable nitrogen status, independent of level.

The results are in sharp contrast to data from the literature where the external nitrogen concentration was used as the driving variable for the internal nitrogen status. The measured fixation rates for grey alder are much higher than those previously reported. Still, the maximum fixation rate observed is small compared to the total nitrogen uptake rate required for maximum growth, in contrast to reported relationships. These comparisons indicate that increased external nitrogen concentration obscures the real relations between mineral and fixed nitrogen, on one hand because of rapid inhibition of nitrogen fixation and, on the other hand, because of failure to obtain stable optimum nutrition and maximum growth by means of this treatment variable.
Differentiation of Mating Vocalizations in Birds: Acoustic Features in Mainland and Island Populations and Evidence of Habitat‐Dependent Selection on Songs
Authors: Baker Myron C.
Published: April 2006

Local environments can act as selective agents on some characteristics of birds’ songs, whereas other song traits may not reflect local genetic adaptation. Geographic variation in songs of two Australian bird species (red‐capped robins Petroica goodenovii, western gerygones Gerygone fusca) was studied to examine one component of the ‘habitat‐dependent selection’ hypothesis. This hypothesis suggests that: (1) the detailed spectral characteristics of male songs are an evolved response to local habitat conditions affecting signal propagation and detection and (2) parallel evolution of other fitness traits sets up the potential for assortative mating by female choice. To examine the first part of the hypothesis, I made comparisons among widespread mainland populations and an island population using two levels of analysis: a typological analysis of song morphology (phonology: notes, syllables, syntax, temporal pattern, repertoires) and a spectral analysis of acoustic characteristics of songs (mean frequency, Wiener entropy, frequency modulation) using an automated procedure of feature extraction (Sound Analysis Pro). Spectral analysis was also used to extract values of the same acoustic features from the background sound environment of each recorded population. The typological analysis revealed no differences among mainland populations of either species, but large differences between mainland songs and those on the island. In contrast, the spectral analysis revealed acoustic divergence among populations, both mainland and island. For both species, Wiener entropy of songs correlated negatively with that of the ambient sound environment, consistent with predictions of the habitat‐dependent selection hypothesis of environmental selection on signal design.
One of the duplicated matrix metalloproteinase‐9 genes is expressed in regressing tail during anuran metamorphosis
Authors: Fujimoto Kenta , Nakajima Keisuke , Yaoita Yoshio
Published: April 2006

The drastic morphological changes of the tadpole are induced during the climax of anuran metamorphosis, when the concentration of endogenous thyroid hormone is maximal. The tadpole tail, which is twice as long as the body, shortens rapidly and disappears completely in several days. We isolated a cDNA clone, designated as Xl MMP‐9TH, similar to the previously reported Xenopus laevis MMP‐9 gene, and showed that their Xenopus tropicalis counterparts are located tandemly about 9 kb apart from each other in the genome. The Xenopus MMP‐9TH gene was expressed in the regressing tail and gills and the remodeling intestine and central nervous system, and induced in thyroid hormone‐treated tail‐derived myoblastic cultured cells, while MMP‐9 mRNA was detected in embryos. Three thyroid hormone response elements in the distal promoter and the first intron were involved in the upregulation of the Xl MMP‐9TH gene by thyroid hormone in transient expression assays, and their relative positions are conserved between X. laevis and X. tropicalis promoters. These data strongly suggest that the MMP‐9 gene was duplicated, and differentiated into two genes, one of which was specialized in a common ancestor of X. laevis and X. tropicalis to be expressed in degenerating and remodeling organs as a response to thyroid hormone during metamorphosis.
MAXILLARY TUMOURS AND BILATERAL RECONSTRUCTION OF THE MAXILLA
Authors: Barnouti Laith , Caminer David
Published: April 2006

Reconstruction of maxillectomy defects following intraoral tumour excision presents a challenge to the plastic surgeon. The defect left after maxillectomy requires a formal reconstruction in order to minimize problems associated with speech and swallowing. A multidimensional approach is required to achieve a structural and functional restoration. The maxillectomy defects are complex, which often requires composite tissue replacement. A variety of reconstructive techniques have been used for the repair of the maxillary and palatal defects, including prosthetics, skin grafts, local and free flaps using the iliac crest, scapula, fibula, latissimus dorsi, radial forearm and abdominis rectus free flaps. We have used a lateral‐arm osteocutaneous free flap for reconstruction of a bilateral maxillary defect, with excellent aesthetic, functional and structural support results. This type of reconstruction for this defect has never been reported previously.
DIAGNOSTIC AND TREATMENT CHALLENGES OF INFRAMAMMARY CREASE BREAST CARCINOMAS
Authors: Sanki Amira , Spillane Andrew
Published: April 2006

Background:  To review one surgeon’s experience with tumours of the inframammary crease.

Methods:  Individually reviewed cases were identified from a prospective database.

Results:  Of the 550 patients treated between January 2000 and January 2005, six patients were found to have carcinomas of the inframammary crease (IMC). The features identified from these cases included diagnostic confusion with sebaceous cysts delaying diagnosis and early involvement of the dermis and chest wall resulting in management issues related to local T staging. Lymphoscintigraphy showed drainage to bilateral, contralateral or ipsilateral axillae as well as the internal mammary chain.

Conclusion:  The anatomy and histology of the IMC are reviewed, as is the available published work on IMC breast tumours. By virtue of their location, IMC tumours invade the dermis and chest wall early. Despite this, they do not seem to behave as T4 cancers. Their lymphatic drainage is a cross between patterns observed for breast parenchymal and skin primaries, making sentinel node lymphoscintigraphy essential. The clinical cases presented highlight these peculiarities of IMC breast cancer.
WEIGHT CHANGE 1 YEAR FOLLOWING TOTAL KNEE OR HIP ARTHROPLASTY
Authors: Donovan Jason , Dingwall Ian , McChesney Steve
Published: April 2006

Background:  Pain secondary to osteoarthritis (OA) of the hip or knee is often used as a reason to not lose weight prior to total knee or hip arthroplasty (TKA, THA). This study followed the weight change of patients who subjectively increased their activity levels 1 year following TKA or THA.

Methods:  We reviewed the records and prospectively followed the weight of 84 patients 1 year following surgery. The pre and postoperative weight were compared, including separate 10 kg categories (e.g. 60.1–70.0 kg).

Results:  All patients had improved mobility as evaluated by either the clinical notes or a patient‐based questionnaire. At 1 year, there was no significant change in weight; only an insignificant small increase in weight was seen.

Conclusions:  This study suggests that lower preoperative activity levels are not the cause for the inability to lose weight or that the gain in mobility achieved by joint replacement, of its own, does not result in weight loss.
THYROIDECTOMY IS SAFE AND EFFECTIVE FOR RETROSTERNAL GOITRE
Authors: Chauhan Ajay , Serpell Jonathan W.
Published: April 2006

Background:  Retrosternal goitre was defined as any thyroid enlargement identified below the thoracic inlet at operation, with the patient’s neck held in extension. The aim of this study was to determine the characteristics of the patients, the goitres, the surgery and its morbidity (including tracheomalacia, recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy and hypocalcaemia) and the incidence of malignancy in order to establish guidelines for managing patients with a retrosternal goitre.

Methods:  Data were collected prospectively on all thyroidectomies carried out by a single surgeon over 14 years. Patients underwent appropriate preoperative assessment and thyroidectomy was carried out using a standardized capsular dissection technique. There were 199 cases of retrosternal extension.

Results:  Retrosternal extension was significantly more common on the left side than on the right side (ratio 3:2, P < 0.05). Most patients (83.4%) had significant symptoms that were relieved by surgery. Of the 199 thyroidectomies, none required a sternal split. The rate of malignancy was low (2.5%). Postoperative morbidity was 30%, the majority being asymptomatic temporary hypocalcaemia. There were no patients with permanent recurrent laryngeal nerve palsies or permanent hypoparathyroidism. There was one case of tracheomalacia. There was no death.

Conclusion:  Retrosternal goitre is a frequently symptomatic condition, with a low but definite rate of malignancy. Surgery is usually possible through a cervical incision and with an acceptable risk of significant morbidity. Thyroidectomy should be recommended as the treatment of choice.
The Optimality of Arbitrary Partial Equilibrium Welfare Analysis
Authors: DUHAMEL MARC
Published: April 2006

This paper characterizes the general equilibrium foundation of arbitrary partial equilibrium welfare analysis in second‐best economies. While prior theory recognizes the importance of market distortions affected by relative price changes, it offers little guidance about the necessary scope of Marshallian partial equilibrium analysis. The paper determines necessary and sufficient conditions for optima of Marshallian total surplus functions to characterize second‐best Pareto‐optimal allocations. While these conditions confirm much of the traditional approach to applied welfare economics, they bring doubt about its reliability for public policy and concerns over its systematic use to build conventional economic wisdom.
Global Visions and Grassroots Movements: An Anthropological Perspective
Authors: SUSSER IDA
Published: April 2006

In the past decade many progressive anthropologists have been concerned with understanding the transformative possibilities of social movements in redefining and limiting the worldwide inroads of global capital. In emphasizing cultural transformation, Castells’ approach in The City and the Grassroots (1983) may help to conceptualize the idealistic and sometimes quixotic movements of the information age. Like Christopher Hill and other social historians, Castells seeks to understand culturally available paths and ideals that opened the possibilities for democracy, whether or not the visionaries succeeded at any particular historical moment. Today, working‐class solidarity is less clearly defined in the face of a rapidly shrinking and ever‐relocating manufacturing sector, while, at the same time, social provisions have been cut back and privatized. At the grey dawning of the twenty‐first century, in the face of US imperialist aggression and increasing global corporate wealth, Castells’ emphasis on the genesis of a new democratic vision as well as on mobilization around issues of collective consumption has become ever more salient.
DARK AND SHINY: THE DISCOVERY OF CHROMITE IN BRONZE AGE FAIENCE*
Authors: GROOT N. C. F. , DIK J. , VAN DER KOOIJ G. , ALKEMADE P. F. A. , SIVEL V. G. M. , TICHELAAR F. D.
Published: April 2006

The Late Bronze Age (1550–1200 bc) in the Near East was a period of cultural development, international trade and technological innovation, notably in metallurgy and silicate technology. As a spin‐off of the new glass technology, new colorants were also applied to faience glazes presumably to increase their aesthetic value. Here, we report on the presence of chromite minerals in the glaze of a faience vessel from Deir ‘Alla, Jordan, 1200 years earlier than reported so far. Importantly, chromite was not only used as a greyish pigment, but also as a nucleating agent for spherulitic crystallization of augite in the amorphous glaze. These synthetic augite formations give a unique, sparkly appearance to the faience vessel, apparently imitating a metallic look. The making of such an intricate glaze and its contemporary significance reflect not only the high level but also the appreciation of innovation in that region at that time.