bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Excitation of Cy5 in self-assembled lipid bilayers using optical microresonators
Authors: Freeman Lindsay M. , Li Su , Dayani Yasaman , Choi Hong-Seok , Malmstadt Noah , Armani Andrea M.
Published: April 2011

Due to their sensitivity and temporal response, optical microresonators are used extensively in the biosensor arena, particularly in the development of label-free diagnostics and measurement of protein kinetics. In the present letter, we investigate using microcavities to probe molecules within biomimetic membranes. Specifically, a method for self-assembling lipid bilayers on spherical microresonators is developed and the bilayer-nature is verified. Subsequently, the microcavity is used to excite a Cy5-conjugated lipid located within the bilayer while the optical performance of the microcavity is characterized. The emission wavelength of the dye and the optical behavior of the microcavity agree with theoretical predictions.
Band gap shift in Al1−xInxN/AlN/GaN heterostructures studied by surface photovoltage spectroscopy
Authors: Cavalcoli Daniela , Pandey Saurabh , Fraboni Beatrice , Cavallini Anna
Published: April 2011

GaN based heterostructures have recently gained increased interest due to their applications for high electron mobility transistors. In this letter AlInN/AlN/GaN heterojunctions grown by metal-organic chemical-vapor deposition with different AlN thicknesses have been investigated by surface photovoltage spectroscopy. The density of the two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) forming at the interface has been measured by Hall effect. A band gap shift has been detected and its dependence on the 2DEG electron density at the AlN/GaN interface has been analyzed on the basis of the Moss–Burstein and renormalization effects.
Laser-excited acoustical phonons probed by ultrashort pulses from a laser-driven x-ray diode
Authors: Schulze K. S. , Kämpfer T. , Uschmann I. , Höfer S. , Loetzsch R. , Förster E.
Published: April 2011

We demonstrate that an ultrashort-pulse laser-driven x-ray diode can be used for time-resolved experiments on a picosecond timescale. Hence, acoustical phonons in germanium are observed after ultrashort laser-excitation and the results are compared with calculations according to a microphysical model. We also show the advantages of this kind of picosecond x-ray source compared to other sources on the basis of its properties.
Atomically resolved silicon donor states of β-Ga2O3
Authors: Iwaya K. , Shimizu R. , Aida H. , Hashizume T. , Hitosugi T.
Published: April 2011

The electronic states of silicon donors in a wide gap semiconductor, β-Ga2O3(100), have been studied using low-temperature scanning tunneling microscopy. We observe one-dimensional rows along [010], as expected from the crystal structure. In addition, substitutional Si donors are identified up to the fourth subsurface layer with clear spectroscopic features at the bottom of the conduction band. The decay length of each subsurface Si donor is systematically measured, and reasonably agrees with a picture of the Si donor in bulk β-Ga2O3. These results strongly suggest that Si impurities are shallow donors and responsible for the high electrical conductivity of β-Ga2O3.
Resistively detected nuclear magnetic resonance via a single InSb two-dimensional electron gas at high temperature
Authors: Yang K. F. , Liu H. W. , Nagase K. , Mishima T. D. , Santos M. B. , Hirayama Y.
Published: April 2011

We report on the demonstration of the resistively detected nuclear magnetic resonance (RDNMR) of a single InSb two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) at elevated temperatures up to 4 K. The RDNMR signal of I115n in the simplest pseudospin quantum Hall ferromagnet triggered by a large direct current shows a peak-dip line shape, where the nuclear relaxation time T1 at the peak and the dip is different but almost temperature independent. The large Zeeman, cyclotron, and exchange energy scales of the InSb 2DEG contribute to the persistence of the RDNMR signal at high temperatures.
Actin microfilaments and vacuoles are downstream targets of H2O2 signalling pathways in hyperosmotic stress-induced stomatal closure
Authors: Huang Ai-Xia , She Xiao-Ping
Published: April 2011

Changes in osmotic pressure can induce stomatal closure to reduce transpirational water loss from plants. In the present work, we investigated the mechanism underlying the perception and transduction of extracellular changes in osmotic pressure in Vicia faba L. guard cells. Using an epidermal strip bioassay and laser-scanning confocal microscopy, we provide evidence that hyperosmotic stress treatment led to stomatal closure and the rapid promotion of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production in V. faba guard cells. The effects were largely reduced by H2O2 scavengers ASA, CAT, NADPH oxidase inhibitor DPI and cell wall peroxidase inhibitor SHAM. These results indicate that hyperosmotic stress induces stomatal closure by promoting H2O2 production. Cytochalasin B (CB), latrunculin B (Lat B) and jasplakinolide (JK) inhibited stomatal closure induced by hyperosmotic stress but didn’t prevent the increase of endogenous H2O2 levels, suggesting that microfilaments reorganisation participates in stomatal closure induced by hyperosmotic stress, and may act downstream of H2O2 signalling processes. In addition, we observed splitting of big vacuoles into many small vacuoles in response to hyperosmotic stress and H2O2 treatment, and CB inhibited these changes of vacuoles; stomatal closure was also inhibited. Taken together these results indicate that the stomatal closure in response to hyperosmotic stress may initiate H2O2 generation, and that reorganisation of microfilaments and the changing of vacuoles occurs downstream of H2O2 signalling processes.
Ecophysiological modelling of leaf level photosynthetic performance for three Mediterranean species with different growth forms
Authors: Markos Nikos , Kyparissis Aris
Published: April 2011

A leaf gross photosynthesis (A) model for three Mediterranean species from different functional groups (the evergreen sclerophyll Arbutus unedo L., the deciduous tree Quercus frainetto Ten. and the semi-deciduous shrub Phlomis fruticosa L.) has been developed through a 3-year seasonal study of gas exchange and plant ecophysiological parameters. The model estimates photosynthesis through four easily measured ecophysiological parameters (chlorophyll content, leaf mass per area (LMA), pre-dawn water potential, leaf temperature) and two meteorological parameters (PAR and average temperature of the 33-day period before measurement (T33)), with a coefficient of determination r2 = 0.88 (P < 0.001). The enhanced accuracy of the presented model may be ascribed to the incorporation of (i) water potential effects on A and (ii) temperature effects on A not only in the short term, but also in the long term (acclimation). Water potential and temperature effects may be considered especially important for species of Mediterranean ecosystems, where strong seasonal variation of these parameters often have a major role in plant growth and survival.
UV-induced fluorescence spectra and lifetime determination for detection of leaf rust (Puccinia triticina) in susceptible and resistant wheat (Triticum aestivum) cultivars
Authors: Bürling Kathrin , Hunsche Mauricio , Noga Georg , Pfeifer Lutz , Damerow Lutz
Published: April 2011

In modern agriculture, the use of cultivars that are resistant against specific stresses, e.g. pathogen infections, is an integral component. Considering the great demand for a rapid and objective screening method for stress resistance of new cultivars, the question arises, whether time resolved fluorescence spectroscopy is suitable for such purposes. Amongst others, infected plants might accumulate specific compounds such as salicylic acid and phenylpropanoid compounds as key substances in plant disease resistance, whereas synthesis and accumulation may influence fluorescence parameters such as absolute intensity of single peaks, ratios between peaks and lifetime. Experiments were conducted in a controlled-environment cabinet cultivating four leaf rust susceptible and three leaf rust resistant genotypes. Fluorescence measurements were conducted using a compact fibre-optic fluorescence spectrometer with a nanosecond time-resolution. Results of experiments revealed that UV-induced measurements of spectral characteristics as well as determination of fluorescence lifetime are suited to detect leaf rust (Puccinia triticina) in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cultivars as early as 2 days after inoculation (dai). For this purpose several parameters such as the fluorescence (F) amplitude ratios F451/F522, F451/F687, F451/F736, F522/F687, F522/F736 as well as fluorescence mean lifetime especially at 470 nm, might be used. Discrimination between resistant and susceptible cultivars to the leaf rust pathogen could be accomplished 3 dai by using the ratio of fluorescence amplitude between the blue (F451 nm) and red (F687 nm) peak, and mean lifetime at 440, 500 and 530 nm. Our results indicate that the combination of spectrally and time-resolved fluorescence could be an additional tool in plant breeding programs for an automatic and precise high-throughput system for evaluation of the pathogen resistance of new genotypes.
Modulation of chromatin position and gene expression by HDAC4 interaction with nucleoporins
Authors: Kehat Izhak , Accornero Federica , Aronow Bruce J. , Molkentin Jeffery D.
Published: April 2011

Class IIa histone deacetylases (HDACs) can modulate chromatin architecture and transcriptional activity, thereby participating in the regulation of cellular responses such as cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. However, the target genes of class IIa HDACs that control inducible cardiac growth and the broader mechanisms whereby these deacetylases modulate locus-specific gene expression within chromatin remain a mystery. Here, we used genome-wide promoter occupancy analysis, expression profiling, and primary cell validation to identify direct class IIa HDAC4 targets in cardiomyocytes. Simultaneously, we identified nucleoporin155 (Nup155) as an HDAC4-interacting protein. Mechanistically, we show that HDAC4 modulated the association of identified target genes with nucleoporins through interaction with Nup155. Moreover, a truncated mutant of Nup155 that cannot bind HDAC4 suppressed HDAC4-induced gene expression patterns and chromatin–nucleoporin association, suggesting that Nup155-mediated localization was required for HDAC4’s effect on gene expression. We thus propose a novel mechanism of action for HDAC4, suggesting it can function to dynamically regulate gene expression through changes in chromatin–nucleoporin association.
Tunable light diffractor associated with liquid crystal molecular reorientation from homogeneous alignment to periodic twist deformation in micrometre scale
Authors: Bhattacharyya Surjya Sarathi , Kwon Dong Won , Lim Young Jin , Park Jae-Hyeung , Lee Seung Hee
Published: April 2011

We have demonstrated the formation of a transmissive tunable light diffractor with a fine grating period using a fringe-field switching (FFS) device. The presented device operates as a superposed amplitude and phase grating. The phase grating is formed by a thin slab of a nematic liquid crystal (LC) film and the amplitude grating is constructed by the electrode pattern of the FFS device. The electrode-position-dependent periodic deformation of the LC director as a function of the applied electric field is analysed and the respective occurrence of phase difference in monochromatic, coherent, linearly polarized He–Ne (632.8 nm) laser light is also calculated using the Jones matrix method at operating voltage. The same calculation results show that the transmitted beam of the present FFS diffractor is right-handed elliptically polarized. The operation characteristics of the thin diffracting device are investigated using a He–Ne laser source and a photodetector which shows a significantly large angular deviation of the diffracted beam owing to the small periodicity of LC deformation.
Applications of Shapley-Owen Values and the Spatial Copeland Winner
Authors: Godfrey Joseph , Grofman Bernard , Feld Scott L.
Published: April 2011

The Shapley-Owen value (SOV, Owen and Shapley 1989, Optimal location of candidates in ideological space.International Journal of Game Theory125–42), a generalization of the Shapley-Shubik value applicable to spatial voting games, is an important concept in that it takes us away froma prioriconcepts of power to notions of power that are directly tied to the ideological proximity of actors. SOVs can also be used to locate the spatial analogue to theCopeland winner, thestrong point, the point with smallest win-set, which is a plausible solution concept for games without cores. However, for spatial voting games with many voters, until recently, it was too computationally difficult to calculate SOVs, and thus, it was impossible to find the strong point analytically. After reviewing the properties of the SOV, such as the result proven by Shapley and Owen that size of win sets increases with the square of distance as we move away from the strong point along any ray, we offer a computer algorithm for computing SOVs that can readily find such values even for legislatures the size of the U.S. House of Representatives or the Russian Duma. We use these values to identify the strong point and show its location with respect to the uncovered set, for several of the U.S. congresses analyzed in Bianco, Jeliazkov, and Sened (2004, The limits of legislative actions: Determining the set of enactable outcomes given legislators preferences.Political Analysis12:256–76) and for several sessions of the Russian Duma. We then look at many of the experimental committee voting games previously analyzed by Bianco et al. (2006, A theory waiting to be discovered and used: A reanalysis of canonical experiments on majority-rule decision making.Journal of Politics68:838–51) and show how outcomes in these games tend to be points with small win sets located near to the strong point. We also consider how SOVs can be applied to a lobbying game in a committee of the U.S. Senate.
Preventing Fusarium Head Blight of Wheat and Cob Rot of Maize by Inhibition of Fungal Deoxyhypusine Synthase
Authors: Woriedh Mayada , Hauber Ilona , Martinez-Rocha Ana Lilia , Voigt Christian , Maier Frank J. , Schröder Marcus , Meier Chris , Hauber Joachim , Schäfer Wilhelm
Published: April 2011

Upon posttranslational activation, the eukaryotic initiation factor-5A (eIF-5A) transports a subset of mRNAs out of the nucleus to the ribosomes for translation. Activation of the protein is an evolutionary highly conserved process that is unique to eIF-5A, the conversion of a lysine to a hypusine. Instrumental for the synthesis of hypusine is the first of two enzymatic reactions mediated by deoxyhypusine synthase (DHS). We show that DHS of wheat and the pathogenic fungus Fusarium graminearum, which causes one of the most destructive crop diseases worldwide, are transcriptionally upregulated during their pathogenic interaction. Although DHS of wheat, fungus, and human can be equally inhibited by the inhibitor CNI-1493 in vitro, application during infection of wheat and maize flowers results in strong inhibition of the pathogen without interference with kernel development. Our studies provide a novel strategy to selectively inhibit fungal growth without affecting plant growth. We identified fungal DHS as a target for the development of new inhibitors, for which CNI-1493 may serve as a lead substance.
Unexpected and widespread connections between bacterial glycogen and trehalose metabolism
Authors: Chandra Govind , Chater Keith F. , Bornemann Stephen
Published: April 2011

Glycogen, a large α-glucan, is a ubiquitous energy storage molecule among bacteria, and its biosynthesis by the classical GlgC-GlgA pathway and its degradation have long been well understood – or so we thought. A second pathway of α-glucan synthesis, the four-step GlgE pathway, was recently discovered in mycobacteria. It requires trehalose as a precursor, and has been genetically validated as a novel anti-tuberculosis drug target. The ability to convert glycogen into trehalose was already known, so the GlgE pathway provides a complementary way of cycling these two metabolites. As well as containing cytosolic storage glycogen, mycobacteria possess an outer capsule containing a glycogen-like α-glucan that is implicated in immune system evasion, so the GlgE pathway might be linked to capsular α-glucan biosynthesis. Another pathway (the Rv3032 pathway) for α-glucan biosynthesis in mycobacteria generates a methylglucose lipopolysaccharide thought to be associated with fatty acid metabolism. A comparative genomic analysis was carried out to evaluate the occurrence and role of the classical pathway, the new GlgE pathway and the Rv3032 pathway across bacteria occupying very different ecological niches. The GlgE pathway is represented in 14 % of sequenced genomes from diverse bacteria (about half as common as the classical pathway), while the Rv3032 pathway is restricted with few exceptions to mycobacteria, and the GlgB branching enzyme, usually presumed to be associated with the classical pathway, correlates more strongly with the new GlgE pathway. The microbiological implications of recent discoveries in the light of the comparative genomic analysis are discussed.
Role of the (Mn)superoxide dismutase of Enterococcus faecalis in the in vitro interaction with microglia
Authors: Peppoloni Samuele , Posteraro Brunella , Colombari Bruna , Manca Lidia , Hartke Axel , Giard Jean-Christophe , Sanguinetti Maurizio , Fadda Giovanni , Blasi Elisabetta
Published: April 2011

Enterococcus faecalisis a significant human pathogen worldwide and is responsible for severe nosocomial and community-acquired infections. Although enterococcal meningitis is rare, mortality is considerable, reaching 21 %. Nevertheless, the pathogenetic mechanisms of this infection remain poorly understood, even though the ability ofE. faecalisto avoid or survive phagocytic attackin vivomay be very important during the infection process. We previously showed that the manganese-cofactored superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) SodA ofE. faecaliswas implicated in oxidative stress responses and, interestingly, in the survival within mouse peritoneal macrophages using anin vivo–in vitroinfection model. In the present study, we investigated the role of MnSOD in the interaction ofE. faecaliswith microglia, the brain-resident macrophages. By using anin vitroinfection model, murine microglial cells were challenged in parallel with the wild-type strain JH2-2 and its isogenicsodAdeletion mutant. While both strains were phagocytosed by microglia efficiently and to a similar extent, the ΔsodAmutant was found to be significantly more susceptible to microglial killing than JH2-2, as assessed by the antimicrobial protection assay. In addition, a significantly higher percentage of acidic ΔsodA-containing phagosomes was found and these also underwent enhanced maturation as determined by the expression of endolysosomal markers. In conclusion, these results show that the MnSOD ofE. faecaliscontributes to survival of the bacterium in microglial cells by influencing their antimicrobial activity, and this could even be important for intracellular killing in neutrophils and thus forE. faecalispathogenesis.
First record of Lagocephalus laevigatus (Tetraodontiformes, Tetraodontidae) from Galician waters (north‐west Spain), a northernmost occurrence in the north‐east Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Bañón R. , Santás V.
Published: April 2011

The first record of the smooth puffer Lagocephalus laevigatus from Galician waters (north‐west Spain) is reported. Three possible mechanisms of introduction of the specimen are considered: natural displacement, the aquarist trade and transport in ballast water.
Botswana alcohol policy and the presidential levy controversy
Authors: Pitso Joseph M. N. , Obot Isidore S.
Published: April 2011

Aim  To assess the state of alcohol policy in Botswana in the context of a substantial levy imposed on alcohol sales by the President.

Design, measurements  Analysis of policy documents and media reports to describe the drivers of policy formation.

Setting, participants  Botswana.

Findings  Legislation aimed at addressing the problem of excessive consumption of alcohol in the country has been proposed and enacted since independence in 1966 and a draft national alcohol policy is currently being debated. The policy recognizes the need to protect the rights of adult citizens of Botswana to purchase and consume alcohol in a safe and well‐regulated manner and the role of government in ensuring that vulnerable members of the community are protected against the impact of harmful use of alcohol. In 2008, controversy erupted over the proposal by the President of the country to impose a 70% levy on alcohol products, later reduced to 30%. The industry responded by threatening to go to court and has since focused their response on what they claim to be serious economic losses due to reduced consumption of their products.

Conclusions  The ongoing controversy in Botswana calls attention to the role of the industry in influencing the debate on alcohol and the need to keep in mind overall public health interest in efforts to develop and implement a national alcohol policy.
Lateral fold growth and linkage in the Zagros fold and thrust belt (Kurdistan, NE Iraq)
Authors: Bretis Bernhard , Bartl Nikolaus , Grasemann Bernhard
Published: April 2011

The Zagros fold and thrust belt is a seismically active orogen that has accommodated the N–S shortening between the Arabian and Eurasian plates since the Miocene. Whereas the southeast parts of the belt have been studied in detail, the northwest extent has received considerably less attention, being part of the Republic of Iraq. In this study, we investigate fold growth in the area NE of Erbil (Kurdistan, Iraq). In particular, we focus on the interaction of the transient development of drainage patterns along growing antiforms, as this directly reflects the kinematics of progressive fold growth. Detailed geomorphological studies of the Bana Bawi‐, Permam‐ and Safeen‐fold trains show that these anticlines did not develop from a single embryonic fold but by lateral linkage of several different fold segments. These segments, with length between 5 and 25 km, have been detected by mapping ancient and modern river courses; these initially cut the nose of growing folds until eventually defeated, leaving curved wind gaps behind. Depending on the alignment of the initial embryonic folds, the segments can either record a linear‐ or an en‐echelon linkage. Comparison of natural examples from the Zagros fold and thrust belt in Iraq with published numerically modelled fold growth suggests that both linear‐linkage and en‐echelon linkage are mechanically feasible and are common processes during progressive shortening and fold growth.
Myeloid‐derived suppressor cells – their role in haemato‐oncological malignancies and other cancers and possible implications for therapy
Authors: Tadmor Tamar , Attias Dina , Polliack Aaron
Published: April 2011

Myeloid‐derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are a heterogeneous population of immature myeloid cells at different stages of maturation that play a role in cancer tolerance and function as an immune‐suppressive cell subpopulation. They utilize different mechanisms to block both innate and adaptive arms of anti‐tumour immunity, mostly through inhibition of T cell activation and expansion. Further advances in our understanding of this cell population in both murine models and humans has enabled more accurate characterization of their phenotype and the recognition of two major classes of MDSCs: granulocytic and monocytic. Recently, the mechanism of action and clinical importance of MDSCs has been more clearly defined and their interactions with cancer cells have been shown to be among the factors influencing tumour development and induction of tolerance. Most of the earlier studies were performed using murine models, but recent clinical investigations have shown their potential role in human cancers. Here, we review the origin of MDSCs, their mechanisms of action, the factors influencing their production and related signalling pathways. We focus on their role in human solid tumours and haemato‐oncological malignancies, and relate to possible novel therapeutic approaches targeting MDSCs which could be considered together with other anticancer strategies in the not too distant future.
The role of intestinal dendritic cells subsets in the establishment of food allergy
Authors: Smit J. J. , Bol‐Schoenmakers M. , Hassing I. , Fiechter D. , Boon L. , Bleumink R. , Pieters R. H. H.
Published: April 2011

Cite this as: J. J. Smit, M. Bol‐Schoenmakers, I. Hassing, D. Fiechter, L. Boon, R. Bleumink and R. H. H. Pieters, Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 2011 (41) 890–898.

Background
Food allergy affects approximately 6% of children and is the leading cause of hospitalization for anaphylactic reactions in westernized countries. Crucial in the establishment of allergy is the activation of dendritic cells (DC) leading to T helper 2‐mediated responses.

Objective
We, therefore, investigated whether changes in DC subsets precede the establishment of food allergy, and which DC subsets have functional relevance during allergic sensitization in a mouse model.

Methods
Changes in DC populations in the intestine were analysed after exposure to cholera toxin alone and in combination with peanut extract (PE) as an allergen. To study the functional role of DC subsets in relation to food allergy, we used expansion of DC in vivo by treatment with Flt3L.

Results
Sensitization to PE in this mouse model was accompanied by a shift in DC subsets in intestinal tissues towards more CD11b+DC and less CD103+DC. No significant changes in the plasmacytoid DC (pDC) numbers were observed. Flt3L treatment, resulting in the expansion of all DC subtypes, inhibited allergic manifestations in our model, including Th2 cytokine production, PE‐specific IgE and PE‐induced mast cell degranulation. pDC depletion reversed Flt3L‐induced inhibition of IgE responses and mast cell degranulation.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance
The establishment of food allergy is accompanied by profound changes in DC subsets in the intestine towards more inflammatory CD11b+DC. In addition, expansion of DC numbers by Flt3L, in particular pDC, inhibits the establishment of allergic manifestations in the intestine. These findings are of relevance for understanding the role of DC subsets early during the process of allergic sensitization, and may lead to new therapeutic or prophylactic opportunities to prevent food allergy.
Genetic determinism of anatomical and hydraulic traits within an apple progeny
Authors: LAURI PIERRE‐ÉRIC , GORZA OLIVIER , COCHARD HERVÉ , MARTINEZ SÉBASTIEN , CELTON JEAN‐MARC , RIPETTI VÉRONIQUE , LARTAUD MARC , BRY XAVIER , TROTTIER CATHERINE , COSTES EVELYNE
Published: April 2011

The apple tree is known to have an isohydric behaviour, maintaining rather constant leaf water potential in soil with low water status and/or under high evaporative demand. However, little is known on the xylem water transport from roots to leaves from the two perspectives of efficiency and safety, and on its genetic variability. We analysed 16 traits related to hydraulic efficiency and safety, and anatomical traits in apple stems, and the relationships between them. Most variables were found heritable, and we investigated the determinism underlying their genetic control through a quantitative trait loci (QTL) analysis on 90 genotypes from the same progeny. Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed that all traits related to efficiency, whether hydraulic conductivity, vessel number and area or wood area, were included in the first PC, whereas the second PC included the safety variables, thus confirming the absence of trade‐off between these two sets of traits. Our results demonstrated that clustered variables were characterized by common genomic regions. Together with previous results on the same progeny, our study substantiated that hydraulic efficiency traits co‐localized with traits identified for tree growth and fruit production.
Characterization of quantitative trait locus for days to heading in near‐isogenic lines with genetic background of Indica‐type rice variety IR64 (Oryza sativa)
Authors: Fujita Daisuke , Santos Rizza E. , Ebron Leodegario A. , Fukuta Yoshimichi , Kobayashi Nobuya
Published: April 2011

With 3 figures and 3 tables

Days to heading (DTH) is considered as one of the most important traits for rice cultivation. A total of 334 introgression lines (ILs) of rice (Oryza sativa L.), with variation in agronomic traits in the genetic background of an Indica‐type variety, ‘IR64’, were developed and used in this study. Two ILs derived from ‘IR65600‐87‐2‐2‐3’ and ‘Hoshiaoba’ showed earlier heading than ‘IR64’, whereas two ILs from ‘IR65598‐112‐2’ and ‘IR69125‐25‐3‐1‐1’ showed later heading. To ascertain the genetic basis of four ILs, quantitative trait loci (QTL) analysis for DTH was conducted using F2 populations. Three QTLs for short DTH were detected on chromosome 8 in ‘IR65600‐87‐2‐2‐3’ and on chromosomes 6 and 11 in ‘Hoshiaoba’. Two QTLs for long DTH were detected on chromosome 6 in ‘IR65598‐112‐2’ and on chromosome 11 in ‘IR69125‐25‐3‐1‐1’. Three near‐isogenic lines (NILs) having a QTL from ‘IR65600‐87‐2‐2‐3’ and ‘Hoshiaoba’ were developed through marker‐assisted selection and they showed earlier heading than ‘IR64’, while two NILs from ‘IR65598‐112‐2’ and ‘IR69125‐25‐3‐1‐1’ showed later heading. These NILs for DTH are useful as research and breeding materials.
A five‐year review of treatment and research on spasmodic dysphonia
Authors: WHURR RENATA , BROOKES GERALD , LEES ANDREW , LORCH MARJORIE
Published: April 2011

ABSTRACT  This paper presents the experience of successful relief of vocal symptoms in patients suffering from spasmodic dysphonia (SD) through botulinum toxin (btx) injections offered at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery as part of a research‐based trial. Over the past five years we have had over 200 referrals nationwide, with 150 patients now under regular review. The National Hospital is the main national centre offering btx injection treatment of SD. The methods of diagnosis, treatment and counselling offered by the speech and language therapist at the voice clinic are described. The treatment protocol has been closely monitored by the research team. A number of significant studies have clarified aspects of the management of SD patients, as focused in three main areas:(1) Differences in potency between the two forms of btx; (2) Efficacy of btx injections in the treatment of SD; (3) Psychological features of patient histories before and after btx treatment. SD patients receiving btx injections worldwide are treated with either the US or UK brand of toxin. Our investigations have indicated that the dosage and method of injection varies from clinic to clinic. We have determined that this can, in part, be attributed to differences in potency by comparing the dose effects of the two brands of toxin in a random controlled trial. A 3:1 difference in the level of potency by use of 3.75 units for injections has been found. Efficacy of treatment is being monitored continuously. Patients (N=31) had improved vocal characteristics as measured by objective and subjective means. Reduced variability of pitch was reflected in significantly decreased standard deviation of fundamental frequency. Patients' ‘voice diaries’ also reflect subjective impressions of improved voice quality in 96% (preliminary report (Whurr et al., 1993)). Our patient cohort repeatedly vocalised feelings of depression and despair at the effect the disorder has had on their lives and ability to function. The psychological aspects of SD are currently under investigation. Patients (N=46) were given several questionnaires to determine the frequency and level of psychoneurotic symptoms. Sixty‐five per cent of patients had normal ratings, whereas 30% had mild depression on the Beck scale. Of the 20 patients with psychological referring symptoms, 16 had lower depression scores six months after treatment. Only 17% had psycho‐neurotic symptoms on the Crown‐Crisp scale, and half of these were within normal limits after treatment (Whurr et al., 1994).
The efficacy of speech and language therapy services for people with learning disabilities
Authors: van der GAAG ANNA
Published: April 2011

ABSTRACT  Research into the efficacy of different intervention approaches in speech and language therapy has a relatively short history. Unfortunately, a large proportion of this research has concentrated on new and controversial techniques, such as Facilitated Communication (FC), rather than on the more common mix of intervention techniques offered by speech and language therapists. This paper addresses several key issues in relation to the evidence of efficacy in the field of learning disabilities as well as discussing strategies for the future. It provides a review of recent studies and offers a critique of their relevance to speech and language therapy services. It highlights the lack of clinician‐led research in the field and argues that questions for researchers and clinicians alike must focus upon the social relevance of intervention rather than on progress measured in the clinical context. The search for appropriate methodologies with which to answer such questions is gradually becoming more focused, and has much to learn from educational ressearch. The paper concludes by emphasising the need for more clinician‐led research and greater diversity in the methodologies used to evaluate intervention.
Underestimated biodiversity as a major explanation for the perceived rich secondary metabolite capacity of the cyanobacterial genus Lyngbya
Authors: Engene Niclas , Choi Hyukjae , Esquenazi Eduardo , Rottacker Erin C. , Ellisman Mark H. , Dorrestein Pieter C. , Gerwick William H.
Published: April 2011

Marine cyanobacteria are prolific producers of bioactive secondary metabolites responsible for harmful algal blooms as well as rich sources of promising biomedical lead compounds. The current study focused on obtaining a clearer understanding of the remarkable chemical richness of the cyanobacterial genus Lyngbya. Specimens of Lyngbya from various environmental habitats around Curaçao were analysed for their capacity to produce secondary metabolites by genetic screening of their biosynthetic pathways. The presence of biosynthetic pathways was compared with the production of corresponding metabolites by LC‐ESI‐MS2 and MALDI‐TOF‐MS. The comparison of biosynthetic capacity and actual metabolite production revealed no evidence of genetic silencing in response to environmental conditions. On a cellular level, the metabolic origin of the detected metabolites was pinpointed to the cyanobacteria, rather than the sheath‐associated heterotrophic bacteria, by MALDI‐TOF‐MS and multiple displacement amplification of single cells. Finally, the traditional morphology‐based taxonomic identifications of these Lyngbya populations were combined with their phylogenetic relationships. As a result, polyphyly of morphologically similar cyanobacteria was identified as the major explanation for the perceived chemical richness of the genus Lyngbya, a result which further underscores the need to revise the taxonomy of this group of biomedically important cyanobacteria.
Accounting conservatism and voluntary corporate governance mechanisms by Australian firms
Authors: Ahmed Kamran , Henry Darren
Published: April 2011

This study examines the relationship between voluntary adoption of selected corporate governance mechanisms and accounting conservatism for a sample of firms listed on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) over the 11‐year period prior to the promulgation of the ASX Corporate Governance Council Good Governance Principles and Best Practice Recommendations in 2003. Using four accounting and market‐based accounting conservatism measures, our results provide evidence of both conditional and unconditional conservatism in accounting reporting for Australian firms. We find that voluntary audit committee formation, increasing board independence and decreasing board size are positively associated with unconditional accounting conservatism and negatively related to the degree of conditional conservatism. Our results support the contention that firms voluntarily adopting perceived best practice corporate governance mechanisms employ unconditional accounting conservatism as a complimentary agency control device and are consistent with the observed negative association between the unconditional and conditional forms of accounting conservatism practice.
Poverty Research in a Development Policy Context
Authors: Zuccala Alesia , van Eck Nees Jan
Published: April 2011

This article provides an evaluation of the extent to which science is addressing worldwide poverty and hunger. It is based on the literature contained in the Thomson Reuters' Web of Science Citation Index (1980 to 2008) and focuses on the WOTRO Strategy Plan 2007–2010 of the Netherlands Foundation for the Advancement of Tropical Research, although similar policies from other countries might also be assessed. The data show that poverty/hunger research has grown steadily over time in many disciplines, most significantly in Environmental Sciences and Technology. Much of this research is hidden; hence the construction of an internationally recognised open‐access database is recommended so that scientists can easily identify critical gaps related to scientific capacity‐building.
Using choice experiments to value catchment and estuary health in Tasmania with individual preference heterogeneity*
Authors: Kragt Marit E. , Bennett J.W.
Published: April 2011

Choice experiments (CE) have become widespread as an approach to environmental valuation in both Australia and overseas. However, there are few valuation studies that have addressed natural resource management (NRM) changes in Tasmania. Furthermore, few studies have focussed on the estimation of estuary values. The CE study described in this paper aims to analyse community preferences for NRM options in the George catchment, Tasmania. Catchment health attributes were: the length of native riverside vegetation; the number of rare native animal and plant species in the George catchment; and area of healthy seagrass beds in the Georges Bay, which was used as a measure of estuary condition. Mixed logit models with interactions between socio‐economic variables and the choice attributes were estimated to account for systematic and random taste heterogeneity across respondents. Results reveal considerable variation in preferences towards the attributes and show that value estimates are significantly impacted by the way in which we account for preference heterogeneity. Preference heterogeneity thus needs to be considered when estimating community willingness‐to‐pay for environmental changes. This study further shows little responsiveness to the presented changes in estuary seagrass area.
A hybrid commodity price‐forecasting model applied to the sugar–alcohol sector
Authors: Ribeiro Celma O. , Oliveira Sydnei M.
Published: April 2011

Accurate price forecasting for agricultural commodities can have significant decision‐making implications for suppliers, especially those of biofuels, where the agriculture and energy sectors intersect. Environmental pressures and high oil prices affect demand for biofuels and have reignited the discussion about effects on food prices. Suppliers in the sugar–alcohol sector need to decide the ideal proportion of ethanol and sugar to optimise their financial strategy. Prices can be affected by exogenous factors, such as exchange rates and interest rates, as well as non‐observable variables like the convenience yield, which is related to supply shortages. The literature generally uses two approaches: artificial neural networks (ANNs), which are recognised as being in the forefront of exogenous‐variable analysis, and stochastic models such as the Kalman filter, which is able to account for non‐observable variables. This article proposes a hybrid model for forecasting the prices of agricultural commodities that is built upon both approaches and is applied to forecast the price of sugar. The Kalman filter considers the structure of the stochastic process that describes the evolution of prices. Neural networks allow variables that can impact asset prices in an indirect, nonlinear way, what cannot be incorporated easily into traditional econometric models.
Family as a context: the influence of family composition and family geographic dispersion on intergenerational relationships among Chinese elderly
Authors: Guo Man , Chi Iris , Silverstein Merril
Published: April 2011

Guo M, Chi I, Silverstein M. Family as a context: the influence of family composition and family geographic dispersion on intergenerational relationships among Chinese elderly

Int J Soc Welfare 2011: 20: S18–S29 © 2011 The Author(s), International Journal of Social Welfare © 2011 Blackwell Publishing Ltd and the International Journal of Social Welfare.

This study examined how the aggregate characters of family context (i.e. the number of children in a family and the geographic dispersion of family members) influence multiple parent–child relationships among Chinese elderly. The sample consisted of 1,103 older adults who lived in rural Anhui province, China, in 2009. The results of multiple regressions showed that the impact of family context on intergenerational relationships varied by the gender of both parents and children. Having more sons lowered both mothers' and fathers' ratings on their remotest parent–child ties, whereas having more daughters enhanced mothers' ratings on the closest ties. An average greater distance between parents and their adult children was associated with closer parent–child relationships. Having more children and greater within‐family variability in parent–child proximity increased fathers' differentiations in their relationships with children. We interpreted the findings in the context of son‐preference and large‐scale out‐migration in rural China.
Metabolic and physiologic effects of an endotoxin challenge in healthy obese subjects
Authors: Rohrer Marcel , Berger Mette M. , Pittet Yann K. , Delodder Frederik , Tappy Luc , Feihl François , Chioléro René L.
Published: April 2011

Aim:  The obesity epidemic has increased the number of obese patients admitted to the ICU. In vitro studies suggest that adipose tissue response to inflammation is enhanced: in vivo data are not conclusive yet. The aim of this study was to test the physiologic response of healthy obese subjects to a standardized intravenous LPS challenge.

Methods:  Prospective single‐blind, randomized, cross‐over study in eight subjects (four men, four women), aged 34 ± 7 years, BMI 34·7 ± 4·2, without glucose intolerance and lipid abnormalities, testing the impact of intravenous LPS (2 ng kg−1 of actual body weight) versus placebo.

Results:  Temperature, hemodynamic variables, indirect calorimetry and blood samples (TNF‐α, IL‐6, stress hormones, hs‐CRP) were collected. After LPS temperature, heart rate, TNF‐α and Il‐6 concentrations and stress hormones (cortisol and glucagon) increased significantly, with maximal responses between 120 and 240 min after the injection. The pattern, the timing and the magnitude of change were similar to those observed in lean subjects.

Conclusion:  This study shows that healthy obese subjects have a similar response pattern to intravenous LPS as described in lean subjects.
Models of equilibrium, natural agency and environmental change: lay ecologies in UK recreational angling
Authors: Eden Sally , Bear Christopher
Published: April 2011

This paper studies how anglers in northern England invoke models of equilibrium and ‘the balance of nature’ in making sense of the water environments where they regularly fish, and how they use these models as norms or ideals when designing environmental management, alongside an emphasis on natural agency and unpredictability. Like other publics, anglers are shown to be a heterogeneous group in how they think about nature and their ‘lay ecologies’ reflect the problematic way in which equilibrium is normalised in science and policy more generally, showing similarities with professional environmental managers. But anglers are unusual publics, because their lay ecologies are put to work in collectively managing water environments, through stocking, culling and habitat management. Thus anglers’ environmental knowledge practices co‐produce the environments in which they develop their lay ecologies, making their models of nature and equilibrium important both conceptually and materially.
Abdominal and thoracic focused assessment with sonography for trauma, triage, and monitoring in small animals
Authors: Lisciandro Gregory R.
Published: April 2011

Objectives –To review the nonradiologist use of ultrasound (US) in the setting of emergency and critical care, the development, clinical applications, and standardization of veterinary abdominal and thoracic focused assessment with sonography for trauma (FAST) techniques.

Etiology –Since the 1990s, the 4‐point FAST US technique has been used for injury surveillance in people with blunt and penetrating trauma. FAST screens for free fluid in the abdominal, pleural, and pericardial cavities with high sensitivity and specificity. More recently, an extended FAST scan was developed for the rapid detection of pneumothorax. These techniques and newly created scans have been applied to other critically ill, nontraumatized, subsets of human patients. As a result, the terminology related to this field, eg, extended FAST, HHFAST, FFAST, FAFF, BOAST, SLOH, bedside US, ‘$ Approach,’ protocols, and objectives have become convoluted despite having similar goals.

Diagnosis –The importance of US in the setting of emergency medicine is highlighted by the fact that this diagnostic modality has become an integral part of the core curriculum for nonradiologists including the American College of Surgeons, American College of Emergency Physicians, American Board of Emergency Medicine, Society of Academic Emergency Medicine, and all United States Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education Emergency Medicine residency programs.

Therapy –Veterinary applications of FAST techniques include an abdominal FAST technique with an abdominal FAST applied fluid scoring system, and a thoracic FAST technique. In an attempt to avoid the creation of numerous acronyms, veterinarians would be well served by making the ‘T’ in ‘FAST’ stand for ‘Trauma,’‘Triage,’ and ‘Tracking.’

Prognosis –These veterinary FAST techniques provide an extension of the physical examination for the emergency and critical care veterinarian potentially expediting diagnosis, prompting life‐saving maneuvers, and guiding patient management. Further clinical research to determine sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy for specific conditions is warranted.