bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of corticular photosynthesis following defoliation in Eucalyptus globulus
Authors: EYLES ALIETA , PINKARD ELIZABETH A. , O'GRADY ANTHONY P. , WORLEDGE DALE , WARREN CHARLES R.
Published: April 2009

Defoliation can reduce net fixation of atmospheric CO2 by the canopy, but increase the intensity and duration of photosynthetically active radiation on stems. Stem CO2 flux and leaf gas exchange in young Eucalyptus globulus seedlings were measured to assess the impact of defoliation on these processes and to determine the potential contribution of re‐fixation by photosynthetic inner bark in offsetting the effects of defoliation in a woody species. Pot and field trials examined how artificial defoliation of the canopy affected the photosynthetic characteristics of main stems of young Eucalyptus globulus seedlings. Defoliated potted seedlings were characterized by transient increases in foliar photosynthetic rates and concomitant decreases in stem CO2 fluxes (both in the dark and light). Defoliated field‐grown seedlings showed similar stem CO2 flux responses, but of reduced magnitude. Despite demonstrating increased re‐fixation capability, defoliated potted‐seedlings had slowed stem growth. The green stem of seedlings exhibited largely shade‐adapted characteristics. Defoliation reduced stem chlorophyll a/b ratio and increased carotenoid concentration. An increased capacity to re‐fix internally respired CO2 (up to 96%) suggested that stem re‐fixation represents a previously unexplored mechanism to minimize the impact of foliar loss by maximizing the contribution of all photosynthetic tissues, particularly for young seedlings.
Evidence for allergen‐specific IgE of maternal origin in human placenta
Authors: Joerink M. , Rindsjö E. , Stenius F. , Alm J. , Lilja G. , Grönlund H. , Scheynius A.
Published: April 2009

Background:  Immunoglobulin E (IgE) has been identified on macrophage‐like cells in the villi of human placenta, irrespective of the serum IgE levels or allergy status of the mother. The origin of placental IgE is debated and it is not known if it is spontaneously produced, so‐called ‘natural IgE’, or if it has any specificity for certain allergens. The aim of this study was to investigate if placental IgE originates from mother or child and to analyse its specificity.

Methods:  Immunoglobulin E was eluted from placenta by lowering the pH. Total and allergen‐specific IgEs were measured in placenta eluate, maternal and cord blood plasma by means of ImmunoCAP (Phadia AB). The levels of natural antibodies were determined with an anti‐phosphorylcholine (PC) enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, as natural IgE has been shown in one previous publication with this assay.

Results:  Detectable amounts of IgE were eluted from 11/12 full‐term placentas. Natural (anti‐PC) IgE antibodies were detected in low amounts in maternal plasma but not in the placental eluate or in cord blood plasma. There was a significant correlation between the amount of total IgE eluted from placenta and the levels of total IgE in maternal plasma; however, not between maternal and cord blood plasma. Allergen‐specific IgE was only found in placental eluates from mothers with specific IgE towards these allergens. Furthermore, there was a significant correlation between the amount of allergen‐specific IgE eluted from placenta and the levels of allergen‐specific IgE in maternal plasma. Allergen‐specific IgE could not be detected in cord blood.

Conclusion:  These results suggest a maternal origin of placental IgE, which can be allergen‐specific.
Genome sequence of Vibrio splendidus: an abundant planctonic marine species with a large genotypic diversity
Authors: Le Roux Frédérique , Zouine Mohamed , Chakroun Nesrine , Binesse Johan , Saulnier Denis , Bouchier Christiane , Zidane Nora , Ma Laurence , Rusniok Christophe , Lajus Aurélie , Buchrieser Carmen , Médigue Claudine , Polz Martin F. , Mazel Didier
Published: April 2009

Vibrio splendidus is a dominant Vibrio species in seawater presenting a remarkable genetic diversity; several strains have been linked to invertebrate's mortality. We report the complete genome sequence of V. splendidus LGP32, an oyster pathogen, and its comparison with partial genome sequences from related strains. As is typical for the genus, V. splendidus LGP32 contains two chromosomes (3.29 and 1.67 Mb) and most essential cellular processes are encoded by chromosome 1. Comparison with two other V. splendidus partial genome sequences (strains 12B01 and Med222) confirms the previously suggested high genotypic diversity within this species and led to the identification of numerous strain‐specific regions that could frequently not be assigned to a specific mechanisms of recombination. Surprisingly, the chromosomal integron, the most variable genetic element in all other Vibrio species analysed to date, is absent from 12B01 and inactivated by a mobile element in Med222, while in LGP32 it only contains a limited number of cassettes. Finally, we found that the LGP32 integron contains a new dfrA cassette, related to those found in resistance integrons of Gram‐negative clinical isolates. Those results suggest that marine Vibrio can be a source of antibiotic resistance genes.
Use of myocutaneous flaps for perineal closure following abdominoperineal excision of the rectum for adenocarcinoma
Authors: Chan S. , Miller M. , Ng R. , Ross D. , Roblin P. , Carapeti E. , Williams A. B. , George M. L.
Published: April 2009

Introduction  Abdominoperineal excision (APE) following radiotherapy is associated with a high rate of perineal wound complications. The use of myocutaneous flaps may improve wound healing. We present our experience using myocutaneous flaps for immediate reconstruction.

Method  Prospective data were collected on patients undergoing APE from October 2003 to December 2008. Patient demographics, operating time, wound complications and length of stay were recorded.

Results  Fifty‐one patients underwent APE for rectal adenocarcinoma, 21 had primary closure and 30 had myocutaneous flap closure (24 VRAM, 6 gracilis). The proportion of patients undergoing preoperative radiotherapy in each group were 62% and 93% respectively (P = 0.011). There were no major complications following primary closure of the unirradiated perineum. Major perineal wound complications requiring reoperation or debridement were seen in three (14%) patients following primary closure and five (17%) patients with flap closure. After radiotherapy, closure with a flap reduced the length of stay from 20 to 15 days, but this difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.36).

Conclusion  The use of flap closure in irradiated patients is associated with fewer perineal complications and a shorter hospital stay.
From Paramilitaries to Peacemakers: The Gender Dynamics of Community-Based Restorative Justice in Northern Ireland
Authors: Ashe Fidelma
Published: April 2009

Community-based restorative justice (CBRJ) schemes emerged in Northern Ireland during the ‘peace process’ to provide an alternative to paramilitary systems of justice. These initiatives have received considerable academic attention. A complex and critical literature has now emerged in this area; however, extant explorations of CBRJ have tended to sideline issues of gender power. Feminists and international bodies, such as the United Nations, have highlighted the importance of addressing historical gendered inequities in terms of the design and evaluation of conflict transformation initiatives. Drawing on contemporary feminist frameworks this article exposes the importance of the category of gender in evaluations of CBRJ in Northern Ireland. Moreover, it scrutinises the theoretical processes through which issues of gender power have been filtered out of evaluations of community-based restorative justice schemes in the region.
ASYMMETRIC MULTIPRODUCT FIRMS, PROFITABILITY AND WELFARE
Authors: Symeonidis George
Published: April 2009

In a differentiated multiproduct Cournot duopoly with linear demand, industry profit usually falls (even though concentration rises) when the distribution of products across firms becomes more asymmetric, if the products are not very differentiated or the total number of products is large. Consumer surplus and overall welfare always fall as the degree of asymmetry increases. These results contrast with the conventional wisdom on the effects of firm heterogeneity and the links between concentration and industry profits.
Island populations have high conservation value for northern Australia's top marsupial predator ahead of a threatening process
Authors: How R. A. , Spencer P. B. S. , Schmitt L. H.
Published: April 2009

The rarity of top predators has been identified as a contributing factor in the collapse of entire ecological systems. Elucidating the ecology, evolutionary potential and population response of species before a threatening process requires a combination of measures of phenotypic variation, demography and genetic diversity using an array of markers. Here we use such information to determine the population structure and its conservation implications for a keystone marsupial carnivore in Western Australia, the northern quoll Dasyurus hallucatus, ahead of the spread of the exotic and poisonous cane toad Chaunus marinus from the east. The western populations occur in two discrete geographic regions on the mainland, the Kimberley and Pilbara, separated by the arid Great Sandy Desert, and on several continental islands. Both mitochondrial DNA sequences and 11 nuclear microsatellite loci reveal clear differentiation of the Kimberley and Pilbara regions. Offshore islands with permanent sea‐channels from the mainland show reduced diversity and were genetically distinct indicating genetic isolation, whereas those separated from the mainland by very shallow channels were more similar to the adjacent mainland populations, suggesting on‐going gene flow. There was little indication that any population within the distribution of the species had experienced recent declines but there was marked variation in sexual dimorphism suggesting diversity in demographic performance. These populations in Western Australia differ from those remaining to the east in Queensland and the Northern Territory, in both genetic structure and demographic parameters and represent the last intact populations in Australia that have not experienced major declines concomitant with the spread of the cane toad. Consequently, the genetic and demographic flexibility recorded by this study provides guidance for the conservation and management of a major marsupial predator before and during its potential decline associated with an invasive, threatening prey species.
Autosomal Dominant Epidermodysplasia Verruciformis Lacking a Known EVER1 or EVER2 Mutation
Authors: McDermott David F. , Gammon Bryan , Snijders Peter J. , Mbata Ihunanya , Phifer Beth , Howland Hartley A. , Lee Chyi‐Chia Richard , Murphy Philip M. , Hwang Sam T.
Published: April 2009

Abstract:  Epidermodysplasia verruciformis is a rare genodermatosis characterized by abnormal susceptibility to infection with specific human papillomavirus serotypes. Epidermodysplasia verruciformis is a genetically heterogeneous disease, and autosomal recessive and X‐linked inheritance patterns have been reported. Nonsense mutations in the genes EVER1 and EVER2 have been identified in over 75% of cases. We present epidermodysplasia verruciformis in a father and a son with typical histologic and clinical findings that occur in the absence of mutations in EVER1 or EVER2. Epidermodysplasia verruciformis in this father/son pair in a nonconsanguinous pedigree is consistent with autosomal dominant inheritance. This is the first report of autosomal dominant transmission of epidermodysplasia verruciformis, providing further evidence of the genetic heterogeneity of epidermodysplasia verruciformis.
Knowledge and Perception of Melanocytic Nevi and Sunburn in Young Children
Authors: Richtig Erika , Jung Erika , Asbäck Katharina , Trapp Michael , Hofmann‐Wellenhof Rainer
Published: April 2009

Abstract:  Background/Objectives:  Understanding the public’s perception of nevi and sunburn is crucial to melanoma prevention efforts.

Methods:  We investigated the knowledge and perception of melanocytic nevi and sunburns in 77 children 6 to 10 years old (mean 8.2) in two elementary schools in Styria, Austria. The children were interviewed by specially trained psychologists about the number of their moles and how they felt having them. Additionally questions about sunburn history and sunburn perception were asked. The spontaneous answers of the children were recorded, there were no pregiven answers. Afterwards the children were examined by dermatologists clinically and with dermatoscopes.

Results:  The 96% of the children could describe a nevus (the term “mole” was translated to “nevus”) and 91% did not feel bothered about theirs. Only 26% had noted the appearance of new nevi within the last year. The 67% of all children had at least one sunburn and remembered the clinical features. The 20% of the children knew that sunburns could provoke skin cancer. All children felt comfortable during the clinical and dermatoscopic examination.

Conclusion:  Children aged from 6 to 10 years know exactly why they had suffered from sunburn, can describe the sunburn and how to avoid it. They do not feel bothered by their nevi and are alert to the appearance of new nevi.
Personality Traits of Centenarians' Offspring
Authors: Givens Jane L , Frederick Maureen , Silverman Leanne , Anderson Stacy , Senville Joanna , Silver Margery , Sebastiani Paola , Terry Dellara F , Costa Paul T. , Perls Thomas T.
Published: April 2009

OBJECTIVES: To determine whether the offspring of centenarians have personality characteristics that are distinct from the general population.

DESIGN: Case‐control.

SETTING: Nationwide U.S. sample.

PARTICIPANTS: Unrelated offspring of centenarians (n=246, mean age 75) were compared with published norms.

MEASUREMENTS: Using the NEO‐Five‐Factor Inventory (NEO‐FFI) questionnaire, measures of the personality traits neuroticism, extraversion, openness, agreeableness, and conscientiousness were obtained. T‐scores and percentiles were calculated according to sex and used to interpret the results.

RESULTS: Male and female offspring of centenarians scored in the low range of published norms for neuroticism and in the high range for extraversion. The women also scored comparatively high in agreeableness. Otherwise, both sexes scored within normal range for conscientiousness and openness, and the men scored within normal range for agreeableness.

CONCLUSION: Specific personality traits may be important to the relative successful aging demonstrated by the offspring of centenarians. Similarities across four of the five domains between male and female offspring is noteworthy and may relate to their successful aging. Measures of personality are an important phenotype to include in studies that assess genetic and environmental influences of longevity and successful aging.
Catheter Selection for Coronary Angiography and Intervention in Anomalous Right Coronary Arteries
Authors: SARKAR KUNAL , SHARMA SAMIN K. , KINI ANNAPOORNA S.
Published: April 2009

Background: An anomalous origin of the right coronary artery (ARCA) from the left sinus of Valsalva (LSOV) has been reported in 6–27% of patients with coronary anomalies. The unusual location and course of this anomaly poses a technical challenge for the interventionalist. Appropriate guiding catheter selection is critical to ensure successful angiography and percutaneous intervention (PCI). We report our experience in 24 patients with an anomalous RCA originating from the LSOV.

Methods: Twenty‐four angiograms of ARCA‐LSOV were reviewed by two independent interventionalists with attention to the origin and take off of the RCA within the aortic root. The origin was adjudicated with a scheme based on anatomical landmarks as described—A: origin from the aorta above the sinotubular plane; B: origin just below the ostium of the left coronary artery (LCA); C: origin below the sinotubular plane between the midline and the LCA; D: origin along the midline.

Results: The distribution of various takeoffs of the RCA was as follows: For type A (N = 4) the FL3.0 and FCL3.0 catheters were successful in three and one cases, respectively. For type B (N = 5) the FCL3.0 or 3.5 was successful in four out of the five cases. For type C (N = 9) the VL catheter was successful in eight (VL3.5 = 5:VL 3.0 = 3) cases. The AL catheter was successful in five cases of type D (N = 6) RCAs (AL1 = 3:AL2 = 1:AL3 = 1).

Conclusions: The classification method and catheter selection provide a useful framework to successfully engage ARCA‐LSOV and may reduce contrast and radiation exposure.
Severe Sexual Sadism—An Underdiagnosed Disorder? Evidence from a Sample of Forensic Inpatients
Authors: Nitschke Joachim , Blendl Volkmar , Ottermann Bernd , Osterheider Michael , Mokros Andreas
Published: April 2009

Abstract:  Severe sexual sadism is a disorder of sexual preference that focuses on humiliation and subjugation of the victim, sometimes causing grievous injury or death. Sexual sadists pose a particular risk. However, the diagnosis as such is unreliable and prevalence estimates vary. In a sample of male high‐security forensic inpatients who had committed sexual offenses, we found two‐thirds of sexual sadists had not been identified as such prior to commitment. Possible reasons for missing the diagnosis are many fold. Present data support the notion that unrecognized sexual sadists more closely resembled non‐sadistic sex offenders than accurately diagnosed sadists. In particular, initially unrecognized sexual sadists had less severe previous convictions, less vocational training, and experienced a less supportive upbringing than their correctly identified sadistic counterparts. The latter, in contrast, more often reached media coverage through their offense(s). We conclude that severe sexual sadism is likely an underdiagnosed, yet forensically highly relevant disorder.
The Correlation Between Skeletal Weathering and DNA Quality and Quantity*
Authors: Misner Lisa M. , Halvorson Andrea C. , Dreier Jennifer L. , Ubelaker Douglas H. , Foran David R.
Published: April 2009

Abstract:  Mitochondrial DNA analysis of skeletal material is invaluable in forensic identification, although results can vary widely among remains. Previous studies have included bones of different ages, burial conditions, and even species. In the research presented, a collection of human remains that lacked major confounders such as burial age, interment style, and gross environmental conditions, while displaying a very broad range of skeletal degradation, were examined for both mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) quality and quantity. Overall skeletal weathering, individual bone weathering, and bone variety were considered. Neither skeletal nor bone weathering influenced DNA quality or quantity, indicating that factors that degrade bone do not have the same effect on DNA. In contrast, bone variety, regardless of weathering level, was a significant element in DNA amplification success. Taken together, the results indicate that neither skeletal nor individual bone appearance are reliable indicators of subsequent mtDNA typing outcomes, while the type of bone assayed is.
Mixture Interpretation: Defining the Relevant Features for Guidelines for the Assessment of Mixed DNA Profiles in Forensic Casework*
Authors: Budowle Bruce , Onorato Anthony J. , Callaghan Thomas F. , Manna Angelo Della , Gross Ann M. , Guerrieri Richard A. , Luttman Jennifer C. , McClure David Lee
Published: April 2009

Abstract:  Currently in the United States there is little direction for what constitutes sufficient guidelines for DNA mixture interpretation. While a standardized approach is not possible or desirable, more definition is necessary to ensure reliable interpretation of results is carried out. In addition, qualified DNA examiners should be able to review reports and understand the assumptions made by the analyst who performed the interpretation. Interpretation of DNA mixture profiles requires consideration of a number of aspects of a mixed profile, many of which need to be established by on‐site, internal validation studies conducted by a laboratory’s technical staff, prior to performing casework analysis. The relevant features include: criteria for identification of mixed specimens, establishing detection and interpretation threshold values, defining allele peaks, defining nonallele peaks, identifying artifacts, consideration of tri‐allelic patterns, estimating the minimum number of contributors, resolving components of a mixture, determining when a portion of the mixed profile can be treated as a single source profile, consideration of potential additive effects of allele sharing, impact of stutter peaks on interpretation in the presence of a minor contributor, comparison with reference specimens, and some issues related to the application of mixture calculation statistics. Equally important is using sensible judgment based on sound and documented principles of DNA analyses. Assumptions should be documented so that reliable descriptive information is conveyed adequately concerning that mixture and what were the bases for the interpretations that were carried out. Examples are provided to guide the community. Interpretation guidelines also should incorporate strategies to minimize potential bias that could occur by making inferences based on a reference sample. The intent of this paper is to promote more thought, provide assistance on many aspects for consideration, and to support that more formalized mixture interpretation guidelines are developed.
Encapsulated cargo internalized by fusogenic liposomes partially overlaps the endoplasmic reticulum
Authors: Mustata Roxana C. , Grigorescu Alina , Petrescu Stefana M.
Published: April 2009

Few endocytosed ligands, including bacterial toxins and simian virus 40 (SV40) have been shown to reach the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) in mammalian cells. Using calcein and fluorescently labelled lactoferrin encapsulated in fusogenic liposomes we found that the cargo uses a microtubule‐based pathway with ER delivery. Endocytic uptake of the lipid vesicles was cholesterol dependent in all cell lines tested, including the caveolin‐1‐deficient human hepatoma 7 cell line. The ligand was transported in non‐caveosome organelles requiring acidic pH for maturation, but able to escape the lysosomal route. These organelles were not recycling endosomes either, as shown by the lack of co‐localization with recycling transferrin. Co‐localization with the ER‐tracker, orange fluorescent protein with KDEL signal retention and cholera toxin in live microscopy revealed an ER distribution of the fluorescent ligand. Brefeldin A, which prevents Golgi‐dependent retrograde trafficking, does not disrupt the cargo delivery to the ER. This new endocytic pathway making use of acidic endosome‐like organelles is an alternative to the reported SV40 caveolae pathways. Exploiting a cellular route linking the cell surface to the ER, fusogenic liposomes may become efficient drug delivery vehicles for ER stress and diseases.
Dynamics of species coexistence: maintenance of a plant‐ant competitive metacommunity
Authors: Debout Gabriel D. G. , Dalecky Ambroise , Ngomi Alain Ngomi , McKey Doyle B.
Published: April 2009

The metacommunity approach is an adequate framework to study coexistence between interacting species at different spatial scales. However, empirical evidence from natural metacommunities necessary to evaluate the predictive power of theoretical models of species coexistence remains sparse. We use two African ant species, Cataulacus mckeyi and Petalomyrmex phylax, symbiotically associated with the myrmecophyte Leonardoxa africana africana, to examine spatio‐temporal dynamics of species coexistence and to investigate which environmental and life‐history parameters may contribute to the maintenance of species diversity in this guild of symbiotic ants. Using environmental niche partitioning as a conceptual framework, we combined data on habitat variation, social structure of colonies, and population genetics with data from a colonisation experiment and from observation of temporal dynamics. We propose that the dynamics of ant species colonisation and replacement at local and regional scales can be explained by a set of life history traits for which the two ants exhibit hierarchies, coupled with strong environmental differences between the different patches in the level of environmental disturbances. The role of the competition–colonisation tradeoff is discussed and we propose that interspecific tradeoffs for traits related to dispersal and to reproduction are also determinant for species coexistence. We therefore suggest that species‐sorting mechanisms are predominant in the dynamics of this metacommunity, but we also emphasise that there may be many ways for two symbionts in competition for the same host to coexist. The results speak in favour of a more complete integration of the various metacommunity models in a single theoretical framework.
ANTIBACTERIAL EFFECT, HISTOLOGICAL IMPACT AND OXIDATIVE STRESS STUDIES FROM LAURUS NOBILIS EXTRACT
Authors: EL MALTI JAZILA , AMAROUCH HAMID
Published: April 2009

Laurus nobilis is one of the most broadly used spices in Moroccan gastronomy. Its antimicrobial activity against both gram‐positive and gram‐negative bacterial species was demonstrated. Likewise, its toxicity was investigated on Swiss albinos' mice. Daily, mice were treated orally with 0.003 and 0.3 mg during 7 days. Plasmatic markers and enzymatic systems were assessed and histological alterations were evaluated. A significant increase in creatine phosphokinase level was observed. The microscopic evaluation showed that L. nobilis induces morphological perturbation in mice's liver. The results also showed an inhibitory effect of glyceraldehydes 3‐phosphate dehydrogenase and an important increase in the level of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and succinate dehydrogenase and no change in catalase activities. The results showed that L. nobilis induces toxicity at 0.3 mg/g mouse and affects energy metabolism and oxidative stress.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The aim of the present study is to determine the antimicrobial effect of Laurus nobilis on pathogens for potential application as herbal medicine in infusion or oral preparation. The effect of the spice extract was investigated on the metabolic markers, stress biomarkers and clinical parameters. This study was completed with histological coupes. To our knowledge, this is the first report to demonstrate the laurel effect on energy metabolism and oxidative stress.
INFLUENCE OF TEMPERATURE ON SHELF LIFE OF BUTTERHEAD LETTUCE LEAVES UNDER PASSIVE MODIFIED ATMOSPHERE PACKAGING
Authors: LAREO CLAUDIA , ARES GASTÓN , FERRANDO LUCIA , LEMA PATRICIA , GÁMBARO ADRIANA , SOUBES MATILDE
Published: April 2009

The aim of the present work was to study the influence of temperature on sensory and microbiological qualities, and on shelf life of butterhead lettuce leaves in passive modified atmosphere packages. Butterhead lettuce was washed and placed under ambient air in 30 × 40 cm polypropylene bags, and stored at 5, 10 and 15C. A first‐order equation was obtained for the development of the evaluated appearance sensory attributes as a function of storage time. For all the evaluated storage temperatures, microbiological shelf lives (14, 17 and 42 days at 5, 10 and 15C) were higher than estimated sensory shelf lives (8, 14 and 26 days at 5, 10 and 15C), showing that shelf life of lettuce in passive modified atmosphere packages was limited by sensory properties and not by microbial growth.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Sensory shelf life of lettuce in passive modified atmosphere packages was estimated using consumer data, which are an improvement of a more arbitrary criteria presented in most studies. Moreover, if failure criteria used in other studies were applied, consumer rejection at the end of shelf life would be higher, suggesting that more conservative criteria are necessary to assure the product's quality at the end of its shelf life.
Unravelling the complexities of high commitment: an employee‐level analysis
Authors: Conway Edel , Monks Kathy
Published: April 2009

Research within HRM has faced criticism for failing to focus adequately on employee experiences of HR practice. In particular, the ‘high‐commitment’ models fail to recognise employee perspectives on HRM, the complexities of the commitment construct and the possibility that organisations configure HR systems in various ways. This paper explores the impact of employee attitudes towards HR practices on affective, continuance and normative commitment, and intention to leave in three organisational contexts. The findings suggest that different HR systems can yield different attitudes towards HR practices, which in turn can impact on different forms of commitment and levels of intention to leave. The findings provide insights into the ways in which organisations manage the commitment process through HR practices and the response by employees to these interventions.
Pollen morphology of Rhododendron subgen. Tsutsusi and its systematic implications
Authors: ZHANG Yue‐Jiao , JIN Xiao‐Feng , DING Bing‐Yang , ZHU Jing‐Ping
Published: April 2009

Eighty‐four pollen samples were obtained for 80 taxa, of which, 13 species and one variety are from sect. Brachycalyx Sweet, 58 species and two varieties from sect. Tsutsusi Sweet, and six species from subgen. Pentanthera (G. Don) Pojarkova, respectively. Pollen morphology of all samples was observed using LM and SEM. Pollen grains are revealed to be spheroidal and tetrahedral with tricolporate apertures. Pollen sizes of subgen. Tsutsusi (Sweet) Pojarkova range from 37.67 μm to 61.06 μm, and the exine sculptures are more or less compactly granulated. Pollen sizes are significantly different between sect. Brachycalyx and sect. Tsutsusi of subgen. Tsutsusi. Rhododendron tashiroi Maxim. of sect. Tsusiopsis Sleumer shows a close affinity to sect. Brachycalyx. Pollen size and exine are consistent with general morphology in differentiating species in sect. Tsutsusi. Rhododendron huadingense B. Y. Ding & Y. Y. Fang, once placed as a member of sect. Brachycalyx, should be considered as a species in subgen. Pentanthera.
The identity of some taxa of Schizophragma (Saxifragaceae)
Authors: LIU Wei , ZHU Xiang‐Yun
Published: April 2009

After examining a large number of type and authoritative specimens of Schizophragma Siebold & Zucc., S. elliptifolium C. F. Wei and S. integrifolium var. glaucescens Rehder were reduced to synonyms of S. hypoglaucum Rehder and S. integrifolium f. cordatum S. Y. Wang was reduced to synonym of S. corylifolium Chun. Schizophragma crassum var. ellipticum J. Anthony was treated as the correct name of S. crassum var. hsitaoanum (Chun) C. F. Wei. The name S. integrifolium var. minus Rehder is reinstated. The taxonomic treatment is supported by leaf epidermal characters.
New combination in Veronica (Scrophulariaceae s.l.) based on morphological characters and the seed storage protein polymorphism
Authors: VURAL Cem , ÖZCAN Servet , AKBULUT Mikail
Published: April 2009

Veronica erciyasdagi (M. A. Fischer) C. Vural comb. & stat. nov., previously regarded as a variety, is proposed as a new combination, based on the morphological characters and seed storage protein polymorphism presented in this study. In addition, information about the ecology and conservation status of Veronica erciyasdagi was reported. This taxon is endemic to central Anatolia, Turkey and is critically endangered.
First report of Protokeelia spinifera and Rhopalodia iriomotensis from China, with comments on their systematic positions
Authors: LI Yang , GAO Ya‐Hui , LU Song‐Hui
Published: April 2009

Protokeelia is described as a new and rare pennate diatom genus in China. Its valve includes two parts: ventral valve and dorsal valve. The ventral valve is more or less convex or concave. The raphe runs in a distinct elevated and thickened siliceous ridge. In the internal valve, beneath the raphe are fibulae or fibulae clusters which connect the ventral and dorsal valves. One species, P. spinifera Round & Basson, is observed in the water samples from a mangrove forest in Sai Kung, Hong Kong, China. Its main morphological features are described in this paper along with electron microscope (EM) photos. Morphological comparisons are also made among several allied species. In addition, a newly recorded species for China, Rhopalodia iriomotensis Kobayasi, Nagumo & Tanaka, is discussed here. Because several key features observed in this species resemble those of some Protokeelia species, we suggest that it may actually represent a Protokeelia species.
Photoluminescence of bioconjugated core-shell CdSe∕ZnS quantum dots
Authors: Torchynska T. V. , Douda J. , Calva P. A. , Ostapenko S. S. , Sierra R. Peña
Published: April 2009

This article presents the analysis of photoluminescence (PL) spectra of CdSe∕ZnS quantum dots (QDs) with and without bioconjugation to biomolecules, Interleukin 10 (IL10) antibodies. Commercial CdSe∕ZnS QDs used in the study are characterized by the color emission with the maximum at 605nm (2.05eV). It is shown that PL spectra of nonconjugated QDs can be presented as a superposition of PL bands dealing with exciton emission in the CdSe core and electron-hole emission via defect states at the CdSe∕ZnS interface. The comparison of PL spectra of such type of CdSe∕ZnS QDs with and without bioconjugation gives the opportunity to detect the bioconjugation without mistake. Moreover the electrostatic mechanism of bioconjugation process follows from the analyses of PL spectra of CdSe∕ZnS QDs.
Work function of W(100) field emitter modified with lutetium oxide and measured with photoemission electron microscope
Authors: Nakane Hideaki , Nakano Yusuke , Kawakubo Takashi
Published: April 2009

The work function of the W(100) surface has been successfully reduced to 2.6eV by heating with a thin layer of lutetium oxide, as measured by use of the Fowler-Nordheim plot. Lu2O3 fine powder is attached on shank of a sharp W(100) needle and heated at 10−7Pa. Field emission pattern has a fourfold symmetry with a bright center spot. The lowered work function of Lu2O3∕W(100) surface was also measured by using photoemission electron microscope. The measured value of work function is 2.56eV. This resultant value of optical work function is in fairly good agreement with that from the Fowler-Nordheim plot.
Calculation of plasmon enhanced molecular fluorescence in scanning tunnel microscopy using effective medium model for molecules on metal substrate
Authors: Nishitani R. , Liu H. W. , Iwasaki H.
Published: April 2009

The authors have studied the plasmon enhanced fluorescence from porphyrin film on a metal substrate, by scanning tunnel microscopy (STM), which results from the electromagnetic coupling of molecules with plasmon field of metal substrate. A phenomenological electromagnetic calculation is presented on the basis of effective dielectric media for the system including molecules and metal substrate by Maxwell Garnet approximation. The substrate material dependences of STM-induced fluorescence from organic molecules are reported. We can reproduce the experimentally observed spectral shape of STM-induced fluorescence from porphyrin film on Au, and describe the material dependent enhancement which is consistent with the observed enhancement for various materials; indium tin oxide, highly oriented pyrolytic graphite, Pt, Au, and Ag.
Spectroscopic scanning tunnel microscopy of Cl–Si(111)7×7: Determination of Cl–Si σ* resonance line shape
Authors: Liu Weiming , Horn Steven , Maraghechi Pouya , Patitsas S. N.
Published: April 2009

Scanning tunnel microscopy (STM) of Cl∕Si(111)7×7 at low coverage has been used to carefully measure a trend with sample bias in height contrast between Cl adsorbates and silicon adatoms. The apparent height of the Cl adsorbate increases monotonically with increasing sample bias. In order to help explain the observed trend a model was developed for the tunnel current between a tungsten tip and the Si(111)7×7 surface. The model uses a tight-binding approach incorporating known local density of states information calculated using density functional theory. Simulation of the clean surface STM topography yields the correct appearance in both positive and negative sample bias. Application of the model to Cl∕Si(111)7×7 allowed for a good fit to the observed contrast trend. Valuable new information on the detailed line shape of the Cl–Si σ* antibonding resonance was obtained. Detailed knowledge of this resonance may well be crucial to future understanding of the unique long-range form of tip-induced diffusion and desorption observed on this system.
Thermionic electron emission from chemical vapor deposition diamond by nanosecond laser heating
Authors: Choi B. K. , Kang W. P. , Davis I. L. , Davidson J. L. , Hu S. T. , Pitz R. W.
Published: April 2009

Vacuum thermionic emission behaviors from bare silicon and chemical vapor deposition diamond coated silicon using laser pulse heating are reported. Under vacuum and subjected to a moderate biasing voltage, the bare silicon and diamond coated silicon emitters show pulses of emission current synchronized with the excitations of nanoseconds 532nm Nd:YAG pulsed laser. The peak emission current increased monotonically with the increased in laser pulse intensity. The Arrhenius plot of the emission current versus laser intensity follows Richardson’s thermionic emission equation for the bare silicon emitter. The diamond-coated silicon emitter shows two activation energies: a value same as that of the bare silicon at low laser intensity and transit to a zero value at high laser intensity.
Stable electron emission from BCN/carbon nanotube field emitter
Authors: Kimura Chiharu , Kawai Satoshi , Takizawa Katsuo , Horikawa Yuuichi , Aoki Hidemitsu , Sugino Takashi
Published: April 2009

Field emission characteristics of carbon nanotube (CNT) and BCN samples are investigated at various ambient pressures. The threshold electric field increases with increasing ambient pressure for both samples. However, it is found that the threshold electric field of the CNT sample begins to increase at an ambient pressure region higher than 3×10−5Torr, while the no variation in the threshold electric field of the BCN sample occurs at an ambient pressure lower than 3×10−4Torr. A significant degradation of the field emission characteristics appears at an ambient pressure higher than 1×10−3Torr. It is demonstrated that degradation of the field emission characteristics of CNT sample is effectively improved by coating with BCN film.
Diameter dependence of the interactions between single-walled carbon nanotubes and Ti(0001) surface
Authors: Yadao David Melanie , Kasai Koichiro , Nakanishi Hiroshi , Kasai Hideaki
Published: April 2009

The authors investigated the stable structures of (5, 5), (4, 4), and (3, 3) single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) on the Ti(0001) surface using first-principles calculations based on the density functional theory. They have found that SWNTs with decreasing radius adsorb greatly and transform into archlike structures on the Ti surface. The sp2 orbital characteristics of the carbon atoms hybridized to sp3 orbitals as they bind with Ti atoms and retain their conducting properties. Therefore, they expect that SWNTs with small radii can be used as electronic devices because of its stability on the electrode surface.
Nanostructure fabrication on an Al surface by chemical and electrochemical multiprocess and nanoscale molecular patterning on the nanostructured Al surface
Authors: Watanabe Y. , Kato H. , Takemura S. , Kusama S. , Iimura G. , Sugiyama T. , Hiramatsu T. , Nanba N. , Nishikawa O. , Taniguchi M.
Published: April 2009

A chemical and electrochemical multistage process was conducted on an Al surface in order to create new types of nanostructures on the Al surface. The multistage processing was a combination of fabrication processes of linked crater and highly oriented line types of nanostructures on an Al surface. At the first stage, a highly oriented line structure was fabricated by treatment with acetone and subsequent anodization. The line separation was estimated approximately 30–40nm. At the second stage, the nanostructure formed from the first stage was modified by treating with the chemical agent Semiclean and ultrasonic agitation. Dynamic force microscopy measurements showed that a tilted-step structure, or sawtoothed structure, was created from the highly oriented line structure. In the sawtooth structure, nanoscale sawtooth-shaped structures, which were composed of tilted steps, were created over 5μm2 areas and were aligned along the original highly oriented lines. Furthermore, molecular and polymer patterns were created on this unique nanostructure using copper phthalocyanine (CuPc) and polyaniline. The CuPc molecules were deposited on the nanostructure from toluene droplets containing CuPc while aniline monomers were polymerized on the sawtooth structure. In the case of CuPc deposition, a nanoscale pattern was created along the original sawtooth structure. In the case of polyaniline deposition resulted in a lot of grain-shaped polyaniline structures were grown on the tilted steps while a large tree-shaped polyaniline fiber was found crossing the tilted steps.
Background analysis of field-induced electron emission from nanometer-scale heterostructured emitters
Authors: Filip Valeriu , Nicolaescu Dan , Fulga Ion Cosma , Mitran Tudor , Wong Hei
Published: April 2009

Theoretical approaches to electron field emission from nanostructured cathodes often need to predict stationary vacuum currents by means of the time-dependent decay theory of metastable states. This rigorous (but practically untractable) treatment is usually mitigated by various procedures. In this work the authors present a new method based on the hypothesis of the continuity of the electron localization probability at the vacuum interface of the heterostructure. The method is compared to other conventional approaches, in terms of both the obtained vacuum probability current and field-emission current. The computed probability current is very close to that obtained from conventional approaches for the same energy spectra. However, conventional methods fail to predict the field-emission behavior from shallow-well heterostructures.
Nuclear Hormone Receptor Regulation of MicroRNAs Controls Developmental Progression
Authors: Bethke Axel , Fielenbach Nicole , Wang Zhu , Mangelsdorf David J. , Antebi Adam
Published: April 2009

In response to small-molecule signals such as retinoids or steroids, nuclear receptors activate gene expression to regulate development in different tissues. MicroRNAs turn off target gene expression within cells by binding complementary regions in messenger RNA transcripts, and they have been broadly implicated in development and disease. Here we show that the
Caenorhabditis elegans
nuclear receptor DAF-12 and its steroidal ligand directly activate promoters of
let-7
microRNA family members to down-regulate the microRNA target
hbl-1
, which drives progression of epidermal stem cells from second to third larval stage patterns of cell division. Conversely, the receptor without the ligand represses microRNA expression during developmental arrest. These findings identify microRNAs as components of a hormone-coupled molecular switch that shuts off earlier developmental programs to allow for later ones.
Persistent Positive North Atlantic Oscillation Mode Dominated the Medieval Climate Anomaly
Authors: Trouet Valérie , Esper Jan , Graham Nicholas E. , Baker Andy , Scourse James D. , Frank David C.
Published: April 2009

The Medieval Climate Anomaly (MCA) was the most recent pre-industrial era warm interval of European climate, yet its driving mechanisms remain uncertain. We present here a 947-year-long multidecadal North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) reconstruction and find a persistent positive NAO during the MCA. Supplementary reconstructions based on climate model results and proxy data indicate a clear shift to weaker NAO conditions into the Little Ice Age (LIA). Globally distributed proxy data suggest that this NAO shift is one aspect of a global MCA-LIA climate transition that probably was coupled to prevailing La Niña–like conditions amplified by an intensified Atlantic meridional overturning circulation during the MCA.
S-Nitrosylation of Drp1 Mediates β-Amyloid-Related Mitochondrial Fission and Neuronal Injury
Authors: Cho Dong-Hyung , Nakamura Tomohiro , Fang Jianguo , Cieplak Piotr , Godzik Adam , Gu Zezong , Lipton Stuart A.
Published: April 2009

Mitochondria continuously undergo two opposing processes, fission and fusion. The disruption of this dynamic equilibrium may herald cell injury or death and may contribute to developmental and neurodegenerative disorders. Nitric oxide functions as a signaling molecule, but in excess it mediates neuronal injury, in part via mitochondrial fission or fragmentation. However, the underlying mechanism for nitric oxide–induced pathological fission remains unclear. We found that nitric oxide produced in response to β-amyloid protein, thought to be a key mediator of Alzheimer's disease, triggered mitochondrial fission, synaptic loss, and neuronal damage, in part via S-nitrosylation of dynamin-related protein 1 (forming SNO-Drp1). Preventing nitrosylation of Drp1 by cysteine mutation abrogated these neurotoxic events. SNO-Drp1 is increased in brains of human Alzheimer's disease patients and may thus contribute to the pathogenesis of neurodegeneration.
Social Motives for Syntax
Authors: Enfield N. J.
Published: April 2009

Origins of Human Communication
.
By Michael Tomasello
. MIT Press, Cambridge, MA, 2008. 407 pp. $36, £23.95. ISBN 9780262201773.

Tomasello argues for the importance of social interactions in an evolutionary transformation from pointing and pantomiming to human vocal communication.
Signs of Meaning
Authors: Robinson Andrew
Published: April 2009

Writing
. Theory and History of the Technology of Civilization.
By Barry B. Powell
. Wiley-Blackwell, Malden, MA, 2009. 296 pp. $99.95, £50, €60. ISBN 9781405162562.

Stressing internal structural principles that govern all writing, Powell explores the origins of writing tied to speech in Mesopotamia, the ancient Mediterranean, China, and Mesoamerica.
Cellular and Humoral Responses toLeishmania majorVirulence Factors in Healed Cutaneous Leishmaniasis and Mediterranean Visceral Leishmaniasis Patients
Authors: Lakhal-Naouar Inès , Boussoffara Thouraya , Meddeb-Garnaoui Amel , Ben Achour-Chenik Yosser , Louzir Hechmi , Chenik Mehdi
Published: April 2009

Cellular and humoral immune responses of healed cutaneous leishmaniasis and Mediterranean visceral leishmaniasis patients were evaluated against results forLeishmania majorvirulence proteinsL. majorprotein disulfide isomerase (LmPDI) and mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MAPKK). Only MAPKK induces significant peripheral blood mononuclear cell proliferation with gamma interferon production as well as antibody responses. Thus, MAPKK may be of interest inLeishmaniavaccination and serodiagnosis.