bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The conserved global regulator VeA is necessary for symptom production and mycotoxin synthesis in maize seedlings by Fusarium verticillioides
Authors: Myung K. , Zitomer N. C. , Duvall M. , Glenn A. E. , Riley R. T. , Calvo A. M.
Published: July 2011

The veA or velvet gene is necessary for biosynthesis of mycotoxins and other secondary metabolites in Aspergillus species. In addition, veA has also been demonstrated to be necessary for normal seed colonization in Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. The present study shows that veA homologues are broadly distributed in fungi, particularly in ascomycetes. The Fusarium verticillioides veA orthologue, FvVE1, is also required for the synthesis of several secondary metabolites, including fumonisin and fusarins. This study also shows that maize plants grown from seeds inoculated with FvVE1 deletion mutants did not show disease symptoms, while plants grown from seeds inoculated with the F. verticillioides wildtype and complementation strains clearly showed disease symptoms under the same experimental conditions. In this latter case, the presence of lesions coincided with accumulation of fumonisins in the plant tissues, and only these plant tissues had elevated levels of sphingoid bases and their 1‐phosphate derivatives, indicating inhibition of ceramide synthase and disruption of sphingolipid metabolism. The results strongly suggest that FvVE1 is necessary for pathogenicity by F. verticillioides against maize seedlings. The conservation of veA homologues among ascomycetes suggests that veA could play a pivotal role in regulating secondary metabolism and associated pathogenicity in other fungi.
Origin and terminal architecture of a submarine slide: a case study from the Permian Vischkuil Formation, Karoo Basin, South Africa
Authors: Van Der MERWE WILLEM C. , HODGSON DAVID M. , FLINT STEPHEN S.
Published: July 2011

Submarine mass movement deposits exposed in the Vischkuil Formation, Laingsburg Karoo Basin, South Africa, provide a rare opportunity to analyse and interpret their emplacement history and deformation processes at a scale comparable to seismic examples. An up to 80 m thick slide deposit, continuously exposed in two 2 km long sub‐parallel sections, passes from extensionally deformed material (clastic dykes and down‐dip facing low‐angle shear surfaces) down‐dip into a compressional toe zone with large (tens of metres amplitude) folds dissected by steep, up‐dip facing thrust planes. The compressional shear planes sole out onto a highly sheared décollement and cross‐cutting relationships indicate an up‐depositional dip younging in the timing of fold dissection. Lithofacies characteristics and detailed correlation of volcanic ash and other marker beds over more than 500 km2 in the bounding undeformed stratigraphy indicate a low‐gradient (<0·1°) basin floor setting. The slide is abruptly overlain by an up to 50 m thick debrite with sandy clasts supported by an argillaceous matrix. Shear loading of the debris flow is interpreted to have driven large‐scale deformation of the substrate through the generation of high shear stresses at a rheological interface due to: (i) the abrupt contact between the slide and the debrite; (ii) the coincident thickness distributions of the debrite and slide; (iii) the distribution of the most intense folding and thrusting under the thickest parts of the debrite; (iv) the preservation of fold crests with only minor erosion along fold limbs; (v) the presence of the debrite under overturned folds; (vi) the presence of laterally extensive marker beds directly above deformation units indicating minimal depositional topography; and (vii) the demonstrably local derivation of the slide as individual folded beds are mapped into undeformed strata outside the areas of deformation. The debrite is directly overlain by fine‐grained turbidite sandstone beds that show widespread vertical foundering into the debrite. This case study demonstrates that intensely deformed strata can be generated by negligible amounts of down‐dip movement in a low‐gradient, fine‐grained basin floor setting with the driver for movement and deformation being the mass imbalance resulting from emplacement of episodic debris flows. Simple interpretation of an unstable slope setting based on the presence of such deformed strata should be treated with caution.
Topical imiquimod in the treatment of two cutaneous melanocytomas in a dog
Authors: Coyner Kimberly , Loeffler Diana
Published: July 2011

Imiquimod is a topical biological response modifier that has been shown to be useful in the treatment of several viral and nonviral skin tumours in humans and animals. Lentigo maligna (melanoma in situ) is common in older humans, and can be successfully treated with imiquimod. Melanocytomas are common skin tumours in dogs, and although surgical removal is the treatment of choice, tumour location and patient morbidity can make excision difficult in some cases. This case report describes the use of imiquimod to successfully treat two melanocytomas in one dog, including clinical results, histopathology and immunohistochemical staining, as well as a comparison with lentigo maligna treatment in humans. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report of the use of imiquimod to treat canine melanocytomas, and the first description of post‐treatment histopathology and immunohistochemistry after imiquimod use in companion animals.
Influence of aldosterone synthase gene C‐344T polymorphism on focal segmental glomerulosclerosis
Authors: BANTIS CHRISTOS , HEERING PETER J. , STANGOU MARIA , KOURI NICOLETTA‐MARIA , SCHWANDT CHRISTINA , MEMMOS DIMITRIOS , RUMP LARS‐CHRISTIAN , IVENS KATRIN
Published: July 2011

Aim:  We evaluated the influence of C‐344T polymorphism of the aldosterone synthase gene, associated with aldosterone levels and the development of arterial hypertension, on focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS).

Methods:  We studied 81 patients with primary FSGS followed up for 8.0 ± 12 years. Patients were classified according to their slope of reciprocal serum creatinine into group A (slow progressors, n = 57) and B (fast progressors, n = 24). One hundred healthy volunteers were analysed as controls. The biopsies of n = 50 patients were reviewed and analysed by the same pathologist. C‐344T polymorphism was determined by polymerase chain reaction.

Results:  The allele frequencies differed significantly between patients (C‐allele: 0.55, T‐allele: 0.45) and controls (C‐allele: 0.45, T‐allele: 0.55; P < 0.05). Patients carrying the C‐allele tended to have a higher percentage of sclerosed glomeruli (41.8 ± 30% vs 31. 2 ± 19% in TT genotype, ns) and tubulointerstitial fibrosis (22.8 ± 18% vs 16.0 ± 5%, ns). The rate of deterioration of renal function was higher in the CC/CT genotypes (−0.216 ± 0.449 dL/mg per year) compared to the TT genotype (−0.030 ± 0.041 dL/mg per year, P = 0.002). Furthermore, 36.4% of the C‐allele carriers and none of the patients with the TT genotype belonged to group B (P = 0.005). C‐allele carriers also had a worse kidney survival in the Kaplan–Meier analysis (P = 0.027).

Conclusion:  Our results indicate that aldosterone synthase gene C‐344T polymorphism not only acts as a risk factor for the development of FSGS, but also may influence its pathologic appearance and could serve as a marker of disease progression.
Nephrosclerosis and carotid atherosclerosis: Lessons from kidney donor histology
Authors: ERTEN SINAN , GUNGOR OZKAN , SEN SAIT , OZBEK SUREYYA S. , KIRCELLI FATIH , HOSCOSKUN CUNEYT , TOZ HUSEYIN , ASCI GULAY , BASCI ALI , OK ERCAN
Published: July 2011

Aim:  Carotid artery intima media thickness (CA‐IMT) measurement has been shown to be a safe and reproducible method to assess severity of atherosclerosis. The association between nephrosclerosis and systemic atherosclerosis is not clear. In this study, we investigated the association between CA‐IMT and nephrosclerosis in a group of kidney transplant donors.

Methods:  Forty seven potential kidney transplant donors were included. CA‐IMT was measured by B‐Mode ultrasonography. Kidney allograft biopsy samples were obtained during the transplantation operation and chronic glomerular, vascular and tubulointertitial changes were semiquantitatively scored according to the Banff classification.

Results:  Mean age was 52 ± 12 years and 55% of the cases were younger than 55 years. Mean CA‐IMT was 0.74 ± 0.19 mm and 48% had IMT values > 0.75 mm. Chronicty index was ≥5 in 55% of the cases. Chronicity index was higher in cases older than 55 years. Age and CA‐IMT were significantly correlated with chronic vascular changes and chronicity index. CA‐IMT > 0.75 mm had a 46% sensitivity and 90% specificity to predict nephrosclerosis. Positive and negative predictive values were 85% and 57%, respectively.

Conclusion:  Aging leads to detrimental changes in every part of the vasculature of the human body. CA‐IMT is correlated with the level of nephrosclerosis. Measurement of CA‐IMT reflects nephrosclerosis especially in older patients.
EXPORTS AND JOBS: THE CASE OF JAPAN, 1975–2006
Authors: KIYOTA KOZO
Published: July 2011

This paper asks how much employment is created by increasing goods and services exports and how the export dependence of employment has changed over time. Using the newly developed Japanese input‐output table for 1975–2006, this paper estimates the effect of exports on an industry's employment (i.e., direct effect) and the effect on other industries' employment (i.e., indirect effect). One of our major findings is that the magnitude of the indirect effect exceeded that of the direct effect over almost the entire period. This implies that more than half of the effects of exports appeared through intraindustry linkages. We also found the indirect effect of goods exports is not limited to goods industries. As a result, the increases in the export dependence of employment are not limited to major Japanese export‐oriented industries such as electrical machinery, motor vehicles, and general machinery. In identifying the potential risks of negative external shocks, it is important for policy makers to estimate how much employment is indirectly as well as directly dependent on exports. (JEL F16, F14)
CONSUMPTION RESPONSE TO GOVERNMENT TRANSFERS: BEHAVIORAL MOTIVES REVEALED BY SAVERS AND SPENDERS
Authors: WONG WEI‐KANG
Published: July 2011

This article surveyed recipients of one‐off government transfers in Singapore to investigate to what extent different behavioral motives might have affected their consumption response. It also investigates how the recipients' personal characteristics might have affected their consumption response and the appeal of different motives. In the sample surveyed, savers were mostly motivated by precautionary saving, followed by Ricardian equivalence, whereas spenders were mainly driven by rule of thumb and present bias. The bequest motive turned out to be unimportant. Older, better educated, and economically better‐off individuals facing no liquidity constraint were more likely to be savers. (JEL D91, E21, E62, H31)
DID THE GREAT RECESSION REDUCE VISITOR SPENDING AND WILLINGNESS TO PAY FOR NATURE‐BASED RECREATION? EVIDENCE FROM 2006 AND 2009
Authors: LOOMIS JOHN , KESKE CATHERINE
Published: July 2011

Outdoor recreation is a large industry that can diversify public land‐based economies that have traditionally relied upon resource extraction. However, what happens to nature‐based recreation visitor spending and benefits during times of national economic recession? To address this question, we replicate a 2006 high mountain recreation study in the same region 3 years later during the 2009 recession. Results indicate that nature‐based public land recreation in this area did not experience reductions in most categories of visitor spending or total number of visits during the recession. These results imply that nature‐based recreation may represent an economically stable industry in public land mountain economies. Total benefits to the visitors are also quite stable, only dropping from $129 per person per trip in 2006 to $120 in 2009. This 7% drop in willingness to pay is not statistically significant at conventional levels. (JEL Q26)
Over‐expression of OsPIN2 leads to increased tiller numbers, angle and shorter plant height through suppression of OsLAZY1
Authors: Chen Yingnan , Fan Xiaorong , Song Wenjing , Zhang Yali , Xu Guohua
Published: July 2011

Crop architecture parameters such as tiller number, angle and plant height are important agronomic traits that have been considered for breeding programmes. Auxin distribution within the plant has long been recognized to alter architecture. The rice (Oryza sativa L.) genome contains 12 putative PIN genes encoding auxin efflux transporters, including four PIN1 and one PIN2 genes. Here, we report that over‐expression of OsPIN2 through a transgenic approach in rice (Japonica cv. Nipponbare) led to a shorter plant height, more tillers and a larger tiller angle when compared with wild type (WT). The expression patterns of the auxin reporter DR5::GUS and quantification of auxin distribution showed that OsPIN2 over‐expression increased auxin transport from the shoot to the root–shoot junction, resulting in a non‐tissue‐specific accumulation of more free auxin at the root–shoot junction relative to WT. Over‐expression of OsPIN2 enhanced auxin transport from shoots to roots, but did not alter the polar auxin pattern in the roots. Transgenic plants were less sensitive to N‐1‐naphthylphthalamic acid, an auxin transport inhibitor, than WT in their root growth. OsPIN2‐over‐expressing plants had suppressed the expression of a gravitropism‐related gene OsLazy1 in the shoots, but unaltered expression of OsPIN1b and OsTAC1, which were reported as tiller angle controllers in rice. The data suggest that OsPIN2 has a distinct auxin‐dependent regulation pathway together with OsPIN1b and OsTAC1 controlling rice shoot architecture. Altering OsPIN2 expression by genetic transformation can be directly used for modifying rice architecture.
Globalisation Lived Locally: A Labour Geography Perspective on Control, Conflict and Response among Workers in Kerala
Authors: Padmanabhan Neethi
Published: July 2011

Abstract:  Supported by the labour geography framework, I analyse how spatial practices of labour shape the economic geography of capitalism, by looking into a model not at a global but at a very local scale of organisation and showing its effectiveness while confronting social actors organised at global or extra‐local scales. Questioning global stereotypes on economic responses to globalisation, I argue that labour becomes actively involved in the very process of globalisation and the expansion of capital, empirically demonstrating the relevance of this in the globalisation literature. I deal with one region—Kerala—and processes in its labour markets, taking the case of apparel workers in an export‐promoting industrial park.
An Unmanned Aerial Vehicle‐Based Imaging System for 3D Measurement of Unpaved Road Surface Distresses1
Authors: Zhang Chunsun , Elaksher Ahmed
Published: July 2011

Abstract:  Road condition data are important in transportation management systems. Over the last decades, significant progress has been made and new approaches have been proposed for efficient collection of pavement condition data. However, the assessment of unpaved road conditions has been rarely addressed in transportation research. Unpaved roads constitute approximately 40% of the U.S. road network, and are the lifeline in rural areas. Thus, it is important for timely identification and rectification of deformation on such roads. This article introduces an innovative Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)‐based digital imaging system focusing on efficient collection of surface condition data over rural roads. In contrast to other approaches, aerial assessment is proposed by exploring aerial imagery acquired from an unpiloted platform to derive a three‐dimensional (3D) surface model over a road distress area for distress measurement. The system consists of a low‐cost model helicopter equipped with a digital camera, a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver and an Inertial Navigation System (INS), and a geomagnetic sensor. A set of image processing algorithms has been developed for precise orientation of the acquired images, and generation of 3D road surface models and orthoimages, which allows for accurate measurement of the size and the dimension of the road surface distresses. The developed system has been tested over several test sites with roads of various surface distresses. The experiments show that the system is capable for providing 3D information of surface distresses for road condition assessment. Experiment results demonstrate that the system is very promising and provides high accuracy and reliable results. Evaluation of the system using 2D and 3D models with known dimensions shows that subcentimeter measurement accuracy is readily achieved. The comparison of the derived 3D information with the onsite manual measurements of the road distresses reveals differences of 0.50 cm, demonstrating the potential of the presented system for future practice.
Analyzing the System of Preferential Tariffs for Least Developed Countries
Authors: Green Alan , de Gorter Harry
Published: July 2011

This paper analyzes the rents available from non‐reciprocal preferential tariffs for least developed countries (LDCs) on all exports to the quad countries at the tariff line level. Most of the rents come from the European Union (EU) in clothing and textiles, while the USA and Canada offer few rents and charge significant tariffs to LDCs. We develop a dual economy labor market model that generates an income distribution and simulates the distributional effects of preferences. We find that the benefits of the preferences outweigh any adverse distributional effects. Relative inequality may increase with preferences in some cases, but absolute incomes increase in every case. We conclude that in the absence of multilateral liberalization, preferences are beneficial to some LDCs and expansion of preferences is desirable. In the event of multilateral liberalization, an import subsidy scheme that maintains the rents is the most desirable outcome.
On Gravity, Specialization and Intra‐industry Trade
Authors: Song E. Young
Published: July 2011

Contrary to the popular belief, specialization is not necessary for gravity equations. This paper shows that the simple gravity equation holds if and only if the market share of an exporting country is constant across all importing countries. Specialization is just one special case satisfying this condition. The constant‐share condition can hold in a variety of situations where multiple producers compete with a homogeneous good. Further, this paper shows that the ratio of bilateral trade to the product of partner incomes is increasing in the extent of specialization and in the intensity of intra‐industry trade. Since the relationship is not model‐specific, the correlations among these variables do not support any specific model.
Sudden Flight and True Sudden Stops
Authors: Rothenberg Alexander D. , Warnock Francis E.
Published: July 2011

We extend the sudden stops literature by recognizing that crisis episodes can be caused by the retreat of global investors, as is commonly assumed but not shown in the extant literature, or by the sudden flight of local investors. We find that almost half of the previously defined sudden stops are actually episodes of sudden flight in which gross inflows resume quickly and strongly. In contrast, in true sudden stops inflows cease for an extended period and, compared to sudden flight, these episodes are bunched and are associated with greater slowdowns in economic activity and sharper currency depreciations. We also show that the empirical regularities of sudden flight and true sudden stops are consistent with theoretical models that incorporate gross capital flows and information asymmetries.
Intra‐industry Trade Liberalization: Why Skilled Workers are More Likely to Support Free Trade
Authors: Beaulieu Eugene , Benarroch Michael , Gaisford James D.
Published: July 2011

This paper presents a theoretical model and empirical analysis that connects the prevalence of intra‐industry trade with increased wage inequality from trade liberalization in both skilled and unskilled labor abundant countries. The Stolper–Samuelson effect is incorporated into an intra‐industry trade liberalization (intra‐ITL) hypothesis where skilled labor opposes protectionism in all countries engaged in intra‐industry trade because skilled workers gain at the expense of unskilled workers from multilateral trade liberalization within the skill‐intensive sector. We examine empirical evidence on whether skilled individuals are more supportive of trade liberalization than unskilled individuals across 31 countries with different levels of intra‐industry trade and skill endowments. We find that the extent to which countries engage in intra‐industry trade in high‐tech commodities is strongly linked with the intensity of opposition to protection by skilled labor. Regression results strongly support our hypothesis that skilled workers, almost everywhere, are more likely to support free trade.
Survival on the ark: life‐history trends in captive parrots
Authors: Young A. M. , Hobson E. A. , Lackey L. Bingaman , Wright T. F.
Published: July 2011

Members of the order Psittaciformes (parrots and cockatoos) are among the most long‐lived and endangered avian species. Comprehensive data on lifespan and breeding are critical to setting conservation priorities, parameterizing population viability models, and managing captive and wild populations. To meet these needs, we analyzed 83 212 life‐history records of captive birds from the International Species Information System (ISIS) and calculated lifespan and breeding parameters for 260 species of parrots (71% of extant species). Species varied widely in lifespan, with larger species generally living longer than smaller ones. The highest maximum lifespan recorded was 92 years in Cacatua moluccensis, but only 11 other species had a maximum lifespan over 50 years. Our data indicate that while some captive individuals are capable of reaching extraordinary ages, median lifespans are generally shorter than widely assumed, albeit with some increase seen in birds presently held in zoos. Species that lived longer and bred later in life tended to be more threatened according to IUCN classifications. We documented several individuals of multiple species that were able to breed for more than two decades, but the majority of clades examined had much shorter active reproduction periods. Post‐breeding periods were surprisingly long and in many cases surpassed the duration of active breeding. Our results demonstrate the value of the ISIS database to estimate life‐history data for an at‐risk taxon that is difficult to study in the wild, and provide life‐history data that is crucial for predictive modeling of future species endangerment and proactively management of captive populations of parrots.
The experience of being an ‘extracorporeal membrane oxygenation’ relative within the CESAR trial
Authors: Harris‐Fox Samantha
Published: July 2011

Aims and objectives: This article reports a study exploring experiences of the relatives of adult patients receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) within the CESAR trial.

Background: Relatives of ECMO patients have undergone unique experiences which have not previously been addressed in the literature and thus may have different needs which may not be met by present practice.

Design and methods: A grounded theory approach was adopted. In‐depth unstructured interviews were conducted with family members of 10 surviving adult patients who had been randomized and received ECMO within the CESAR trial.

Results: Relatives have a range of needs specific to the ECMO experience, these include the depth and positivity of information. Particular areas for support were concerning a perceived self‐inflicted nature of illness, personal guilt, distance from home, receiving ‘the call’, weaning from sedation and transfer/discharge from the ECMO unit.

Conclusions: Relatives would benefit from the opportunity to talk about their ‘ECMO experiences' following the patient's recovery to enable them and their families to ‘move on’.

Relevance to clinical practice: Interventions need to be in place to follow‐up relatives and patients to provide ongoing support to the family unit.
Continuous lateral rotation therapy – a review
Authors: Wanless Stephen , Aldridge Matthew
Published: July 2011

Aims: This article reviews the current evidence, benefits and drawbacks for the use of continuous lateral replacement therapy in the treatment and prevention of nosocomial infections in the ventilated patient.

Relevant to Practice: The acquisition of nosocomial infections and the development of pressure sores continue to be major issues in the care of the critically ill, ventilated patient. The use of continuous lateral rotation therapy (CLRT) as an adjunct in the prevention and treatment of pneumonia has increased in popularity in recent years. A number of institutions routinely advocate the use of CLRT in critically ill patients.

Conclusion: While there is some data to suggest that CLRT may have an impact on prevention of and treatment for nosocomial infections acquired by ventilated patients, there still remains insufficient evidence to its inclusion as a fully validated treatment. Clearly, there is a requirement for more robust, in‐depth research into the efficacy of this proposed treatment.
Competition between Native Hawaiian Plants and the Invasive Grass Megathyrsus maximus: Implications of Functional Diversity for Ecological Restoration
Authors: Ammondt Selita A. , Litton Creighton M.
Published: July 2011

Biodiversity loss is a global crisis, due primarily to habitat destruction and widespread nonnative invasions. Invasive grasses are particularly problematic in many tropical ecosystems, where they possess traits that promote their persistence and can drastically alter native plant communities. We explored the ecophysiological basis for restoring native Hawaiian dryland ecosystems currently dominated by the nonnative invasive grass Megathyrsus maximus (guinea grass) in a garden experiment. Three native species—Myoporum sandwicense (naio; canopy tree), Dodonaea viscosa (aalii; shrub), and Plumbago zeylanica (iliee; groundcover)—were grown with M. maximus at three levels of native functional diversity (one, two, or three species) while holding overall plant density constant. We tested which individual and functional combinations of native species were more productive and best suppressed M. maximus growth and reproduction. Megathyrsus maximus had 39–94% higher maximum photosynthetic rates (Amax) than native species and increasing native functional diversity did not affect M. maximus Amax. Aboveground, belowground, and total biomass of M. maximus varied with functional diversity, although intraspecific competition reduced growth as much as interspecific competition. Reproductive tiller production by M. maximus decreased significantly when planted with any of the native species and with increasing native functional diversity. These results indicate that high native functional diversity in an ecological restoration setting may aid in the control of a dominant invasive grass and the reintroduction of diverse native species. Recommendations for restoring degraded nonnative grasslands in Hawaii and throughout the tropics include selection of native species that are ecophysiologically competitive and have high functional diversity.
COMPARISON OF METHYL JASMONATE AND CADMIUM EFFECT ON SELECTED PHYSIOLOGICAL PARAMETERS IN SCENEDESMUS QUADRICAUDA (CHLOROPHYTA, CHLOROPHYCEAE)1
Authors: Kováčik Jozef , Klejdus Bořivoj , Štork František , Hedbavny Josef , Bačkor Martin
Published: July 2011

Effect of methyl jasmonate (MeJA) in the concentrations of 10 or 100 μM on selected physiological parameters in Scenedesmus quadricauda (Turp.) Bréb. after 24 h of exposure was studied. Results were compared with the application of general toxic metal (cadmium, Cd) to identify MeJA‐specific responses. Accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS; hydrogen peroxide and superoxide) was the most elevated by 10 μM MeJA and 100 μM Cd, while total chls showed decrease (Cd) and increase (MeJA) in these variants. The amount of carotenoids and cell viability were affected neither by MeJA nor by Cd application. The sum of free amino acids was considerably elevated by 10 μM Cd (increase in histidine, threonine, arginine, leucine, and lysine mainly) but depleted by 100 μM MeJA (14 from 17 compounds decreased), while accumulation of soluble proteins was unaffected by Cd and enhanced by MeJA. Cadmium application reduced the amount of Ca and also Mg in the case of 100 μM Cd, while MeJA had no effect on the content of mineral nutrients. Total Cd content reached 557 and 1,334 μg · g−1 dry weight (dwt) in 10 and 100 μM Cd variant, respectively. Intracellular Cd uptake was ca. 55% from total Cd content in both Cd variants. The present findings are discussed in the context of the available literature, and possible explanations are suggested.
STEROL PROFILES IN 18 MACROALGAE OF THE PORTUGUESE COAST1
Authors: Lopes Graciliana , Sousa Carla , Bernardo João , Andrade Paula B. , Valentão Patrícia , Ferreres Federico , Mouga Teresa
Published: July 2011

The sterol profiles of dominant macroalgae occurring in the western Portuguese coast were evaluated. An analytical procedure, involving alkaline hydrolysis and extraction followed by separation by reversed‐phase HPLC–diode array detection (HPLC–DAD), was optimized for the study of their sterols composition. The validated methodology is short in analysis time (as the compounds are determined in <20 min), sensitive, reproducible, and accurate. It was then successfully applied to the determination of campesterol, cholesterol, desmosterol, ergosterol, fucosterol, stigmasterol, and β‐sitosterol in 18 species (three Chlorophyta, five Rhodophyta, and 10 Phaeophyta). The profiles obtained for the several macroalgal species were considerably different. C29 sterols were predominant in Phaeophyta and Chlorophyta (71%–95% of total sterol content), while in Rhodophyta cholesterol content is significantly higher (34%–87%). Among the studied species, Asparagopsis armata Harv. contained the lowest sterol amount (555 mg · kg−1 dry weight), and Cystoseira tamariscifolia (Huds.) Papenf. the highest one (6,502 mg · kg−1 dry weight). Data obtained may be helpful in identifying suitable marine sources of sterols, with potential applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries.
Individual and Aggregate Labor Supply with Coordinated Working Times
Authors: ROGERSON RICHARD
Published: July 2011

I analyze two extensions to the standard model of life‐cycle labor supply that feature operative choices along both the intensive and extensive margin. One assumes that individuals face continuous wage‐hours schedules, while the other assumes that all work must be coordinated across individuals. Though similar qualitatively, the two models have very different implications for aggregate labor supply responses to tax policy. In the first model, curvature in the individual utility from leisure function plays relatively little role, but in the second model, it is of first‐order importance. The second model also has important implications for what data are best able to provide evidence on the extent of curvature in the utility from leisure function.
Firm Microstructure and Aggregate Productivity
Authors: HOPENHAYN HUGO A.
Published: July 2011

Models of firm microstructure are becoming now a standard building block in macroeconomics, trade, and development. This literature builds on the recognition that firm heterogeneity and the allocation of resources across firms plays a key role in determining aggregate productivity and the gains from trade. Barriers to the efficient allocation of resources across firms have been recently recognized to play a key role in economic development. This paper focuses on this methodological contribution, the link between firm microstructure and economic aggregates.
Healthcare Utilization and Expenditures in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation Treated with Catheter Ablation
Authors: LADAPO JOSEPH A. , DAVID GUY , GUNNARSSON CANDACE L. , HAO STEVEN C. , WHITE SARAH A. , MARCH JAMIE L. , REYNOLDS MATTHEW R.
Published: July 2011

Catheter Ablation in AF Patients, Including Age 65+, Reduces Utilization. Aim: The aim was to estimate the impact of catheter ablation on short‐ and long‐term healthcare utilization and expenditures among atrial fibrillation (AF) patients in general and Medicare populations.

Methods:
Data were analyzed from The MarketScan® Databases. MarketScan data contain deidentified patient‐level records from employer‐sponsored and public health insurance plans. Multivariable regression models for utilization and expenditures were built for all patients, with subanalyses performed for patients ≥65 years. Results were compared to preablation figures and reported for 5 time groups, based on duration of available postablation follow‐up: 6–12 months; 12–18 months; 18–24 months; 24–30 months; and 30–36 months.

Results:
A total of 3,194 patients were identified who had undergone catheter ablation for treatment of AF, had continuous enrollment in the database 6 months prior to first ablation, and had at least 1‐year follow‐up postablation. Compared to the 6 months prior to ablation, there were significant reductions in the number of outpatient appointments, inpatient days, and emergency room visits in the total study population and in the subset ≥65 years. There was a statistically significant (P < 0.01) decrease in total healthcare expenditures across 4 of the 5 6‐month time periods, with annual savings ranging from $3,300 to $9,200. For patients ≥65 years, annual savings ranged from $3,200 to $9,200. Drug utilization also significantly declined (P < 0.01), with average annual medication savings ranging from $670 to $890, and from $740 to $880 for patients ≥65 years.

Conclusion:
Catheter ablation for AF reduced healthcare utilization and expenditures up to 3 years postablation. This reduction was consistent, significant, and had implications for general and Medicare populations. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 23, pp. 1‐8, January 2012)
Additional Diagnostic Value of Very Prolonged Observation by Implantable Loop Recorder in Patients with Unexplained Syncope
Authors: FURUKAWA TOSHIYUKI , MAGGI ROBERTO , BERTOLONE CRISTINA , FONTANA DANIELE , BRIGNOLE MICHELE
Published: July 2011

Long‐Term Observation with ILR. Introduction: In the literature, the average diagnostic yield of the implantable loop recorder (ILR) is reported to be 35% over an observation period generally less than 18 months. The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic value of ILR during very prolonged observation.

Methods and Results:
Consecutive patients who had received one or more (in the case of battery exhaustion before diagnosis) ILR (Reveal/plus/DX, Medtronic Inc.) from 2001 to 2010 were included. The diagnostic ECG was classified according to the ISSUE classification. We analyzed 157 patients (87 males, 69 ± 14 years): 70 of these were followed up for ≥18 months. The estimated cumulative diagnostic rates were 30%, 43%, 52%, and 80% at 1, 2, 3, and 4 years, respectively; 26% of diagnoses were made after 18 months. The diagnostic yield was independent of structural heart disease, bundle branch block, number of syncopes, age, and gender; the median time to diagnosis of ISSUE type 1 patients was shorter than that of the others (4 [2;10] vs. 16 [6;23] months; P = 0.003). During the observation period, 3 patients (1.9%) died and none suffered arrhythmic death.

Conclusions:
Prolonging observation up to 4 years increased the diagnostic value of ILR in syncopal patients and was safe. A quarter of patients diagnosed needed more than 18 months of follow‐up. As consequence, when a strategy of prolonging monitoring is chosen, monitoring should be maintained even for several years until diagnosis is established. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 23, pp. 67‐71, January 2012)
Phase Relations in Si–C–N–O–R (R = La,Gd,Y) Systems
Authors: Wu Laner , Sun Wenzhou , Chen Yuhong , Lu Youjun , Jiang Yong , Huang Zhenkun
Published: July 2011

The present work determined the phase relations in the Si–C–N–O–R systems, involving SiC–Si3N4–R2O3, Si3N4–SiO2–R2O3, and SiC–Si3N4–SiO2–R2O3 (R = La,Gd,Y) systems by XRD phase analyses of the solid‐state reacted samples from powder mixtures of SiC, Si3N4, and R2O3. Subsolidus phase diagrams of these systems were presented and summarized. Within these systems in‐situ SiO2 impurity in the powder mixtures often cause the formation of some oxygen‐richer rare‐earth siliconoxynitrides, J‐, K‐, H‐phases and extends the ternary systems SiC–Si3N4–R2O3 into the quaternary systems SiC–Si3N4–SiO2–R2O3 (Si–C–N–O–R). In these systems, the reaction of partial SiC participation and the formation mechanism of rare‐earth siliconoxynitrides are discussed.
Effect of Various Additives on Luminescence Properties of Mn2+‐Doped Ga2O3–ZnO Powders
Authors: Wada Noriyuki , Okuno Teruhisa , Nishimura Yusuke , Kojima Kazuo
Published: July 2011

The (100‐x)Ga2O3–xZnO–0.1MnO and 51Ga2O3–49ZnO–1MmOn–0.1MnO powders (MmOn: additives, Li2O, Na2O, K2O, MgO, CaO, ZnO, SrO, BaO, B2O3, Al2O3, Ga2O3, Y2O3, La2O3, In2O3, SiO2, TiO2, GeO2, P2O5, Nb2O5, Ta2O5, MoO3, and WO3) were prepared by a solid‐state reaction at 1000°C for 5 h in the air. In (100‐x)Ga2O3–xZnO–0.1MnO powders, a green luminescence band due to the 4T1(4G)→6A1(6S) transition of Mn2+ ions appeared at 505 nm under excitation at 245 nm. It has the maximum intensity in the chemical composition (x = 48.5) with the largest number of distorted and octahedrally coordinated Ga3+ ions with an oxygen vacancy (distorted GaO57− groups). It was found that the Mn2+ green luminescence occurred mainly because of the excitation of the distorted GaO57− groups and the energy transfer from distorted GaO57− groups to Mn2+ ions. In 51Ga2O3–49ZnO–1MmOn–0.1MnO powders, the lower the basicity of MmOn, the stronger was the integrated intensity of the Mn2+ green luminescence. It was revealed that the MmOn with lower basicity had the ability to form the distorted GaO57− groups. The integrated intensity of the Mn2+ green luminescence was most enhanced by the addition of B2O3 with low basicity.
Solution Deposition of Micropatterned Nanocrystalline Metal Oxide Films Through Hydrogels
Authors: Tredici Ilenia G. , Yaghmaie Frank , Irving Michael , Wijesundara Muthu B. J. , Maglia Filippo , Quartarone Eliana , Anselmi‐Tamburini Umberto
Published: July 2011

A new solution method based on inexpensive hydrogels and inorganic salts is applied to the synthesis of micropatterned ceramic oxide thin films. Poly(ethylene glycol)‐based polymeric precursors, loaded with simple metal precursors, are photopolymerized and micropatterned through soft‐lithographic techniques. After thermal degradation, ceramic oxide thin films are produced. The process, examined by means of thermal analysis, grazing incidence diffraction, atomic force microscopy and profilometry, leads to homogeneous nanostructured films, and exhibits great lithographic reliability, remarkably avoiding lateral shrinkage and background residual layer. The method, which permits to overcome some drawbacks related to conventional soft‐lithographic and polymer‐assisted deposition techniques, was applied to a large number of simple and complex oxides.
Interactions Between SOFC Interconnect Coating Materials and Chromia
Authors: Wang Kangli , Liu Yingjia , Fergus Jeffrey W.
Published: July 2011

Manganese cobalt oxides are promising coating materials for reducing chromium volatilization, and thus the associated cathode poisoning, from interconnect alloys in solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). Interaction between this coating and the oxide scale formed on the alloy during fuel cell operation can lead to changes in the coating composition and thus its performance. In this study, the properties of manganese cobalt spinel oxides and the reaction between manganese cobalt spinel oxides and chromia were investigated. The reaction product consists of two layers: a layer in contact with chromia that grows by the diffusion of cobalt and manganese from (Mn,Co)3O4 toward the chromia and an intermediate layer that grows by the diffusion of chromium through the reaction layer. The effect of dopants on the coating performance was also investigated. With the addition of iron or titanium, the rate of reaction between the spinel coating and the chromia scale can be decreased significantly, which would reduce the risk of scale spallation and provide an increase in the lifetime of the interconnect and thus the fuel cell.
Crystal Structures and Optical Properties of Transparent Ceramics Based on LaAlO3–Sr(Al,Ta)O3 Solid Solution
Authors: Kintaka Yuji , Kuretake Satoshi , Hayashi Takeshi , Tanaka Nobuhiko , Ando Akira , Takagi Hiroshi
Published: July 2011

We fabricated a new series of transparent ceramics based on (1–x)LaAlO3–xSr(Al0.5Ta0.5)O3 solid solution. These transparent ceramics were obtained by a conventional solid‐state reaction, and the crystal structure and its optical properties were investigated. The X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analyses of the ceramics revealed a cubic perovskite structure with a higher Sr(Al0.5Ta0.5)O3 content (Pm‐3m for x = 0.4–0.6 and Fm‐3m for x = 0.7–1.0), whereas the ceramics contained rhombohedral perovskite phase at x = 0.0–0.3. However, the Raman scattering study revealed that an Fm‐3m ordered structure was contained above x = 0.2. High transmittance was obtained at the cubic composition (x = 0.4–1.0), and was particularly high at x = 0.5–0.7. It was demonstrated that these transparent ceramics had both a high refractive index and a high Abbe number (low dispersion). The Abbe number of the x = 0.5 composition, 37.8, was higher than that of Ba(Mg,Ta)O3 system transparent ceramics (~30).
Synthesis of Co‐Doped ZnO Nanofibers and Their Magnetic Properties
Authors: Li Heping , Qin Xiaolu , Zhang Wei , Pan Wei
Published: July 2011

Electrospinning, a general synthetic method, has been adopted to fabricate and assemble room‐temperature ferromagnetic diluted magnetic semiconductor nanofibers. Employing electrospinning technique followed by calcination and annealing process, we have successfully prepared uniform Co‐doped ZnO nanofibers with concentrations of Co between 0 and 15.0 at.%. And the solubility limit of Co dopant in ZnO nanofibers has been determined. The Zn1−xCoxO nanofibers annealed in hydrogen atmosphere exhibit ferromagnetism at 300 K, deviating from paramagnetism in the ones that were without annealing. Hence, the ferromagnetism in these fibers depends on not only Co addition but also the annealing process. Moreover, both coercive field and saturation magnetization increase along with the Co content. The ultimate coercive field and saturation magnetization are 610 Oe and 0.336 μB/Co of Zn0.85Co0.15O nanofibers, respectively. Origin of the observed enhanced room‐temperature ferromagnetism in Zn1−xCoxO nanofibers is analyzed according to the detailed micro‐structural characterization.
Facile Synthesis and Characterization of Hexagonal Boron Nitride Nanoplates by Two‐Step Route
Authors: Zhao Zhengyan , Yang Zhigang , Wen Yan , Wang Yuhua
Published: July 2011

Large quantities of hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN) nanoplates with hexagonal morphologies have been successfully synthesized by a simple two‐step route without using any template or catalyst, including combustion synthesis and then annealing processes. The phase content, morphology, and optical properties of the products have been characterized. It reveals that the obtained products are pure and of high crystallinity. The UV–vis absorption spectrum indicates that the h‐BN nanoplates have an optical band gap of ~6.07 eV. Strong violet–blue photoluminescence (PL) emission with a broad band ranging from 400 nm to 475 nm has been observed, indicating that the nanoplates as‐grown by this simple route are promising for application in nanosize optical devices (LEDs, blue‐light source, UV detector, etc.). The phonon lines features are obviously found in the PL spectra, the phonon frequency involved in these transitions is consistent with the B–N E2g vibrational mode, which has been measured by the Raman spectroscopy.
Overexpression of the human ZNF300 gene enhances growth and metastasis of cancer cells through activating NF‐kB pathway
Authors: Wang Tao , Wang Xian‐guo , Xu Jun‐hua , Wu Xiang‐Peng , Qiu Hong‐ling , Yi Hong , Li Wen‐Xin
Published: July 2011

Zinc finger proteins (ZNF) play important roles in various physiological processes. Here we report that ZNF300, a novel zinc finger protein, identified specifically in humans, promotes tumour development by modulating the NF‐κB pathway. Inflammatory factors were found to induce ZNF300 expression in HeLa cell line, and ZNF300 expression further enhanced NF‐κB signalling by activating TRAF2 and physically interacting with IKKβ. Furthermore, ZNF300 overexpression increased ERK1/2 phosphorylation and the expression of c‐myc, IL‐6, and IL‐8 but decreased the expression of p21waf‐1 and p27Kip1; whose down‐regulation led to the opposite effect. Most importantly, ZNF300 overexpression stimulated cancer cell proliferation in vitro and significantly enhanced tumour development and metastasis in mouse xenograft model, while knocking down ZNF300 led to the opposite effects. We have identified a novel function for ZNF300 in tumour development that may uniquely link inflammation and NF‐κB to tumourigenesis in humans but not in mice.
Exotic weevil invasion increases floral herbivore community density, function, and impact on a native plant
Authors: Rand Tatyana A. , Louda Svata M.
Published: July 2011

Consumer communities are being re‐arranged through unprecedented rates of human‐mediated invasions and extinctions. Such changes in consumer diversity potentially alter community function and impact on resource populations. Although insect herbivore invasions are increasingly common, the influence of such species additions on native resident herbivore guilds, along with their individual and combined effects on native plant resources, are rarely investigated. Here, we used site‐to‐site and plant‐to‐plant variation in herbivore composition to examine how the addition of an invasive exotic weevil, Rhinocyllus conicus, combines with a guild of native floral herbivores (tephritid flies, pyralid moths) to influence two key components of herbivore community function – aggregate herbivore densities and cumulative levels of seed destruction – on a native thistle, Cirsium canescens. Invasion of a site by R. conicus more than doubled aggregate herbivore density, resulting in increased levels of seed destruction and a halving of seed production by the native thistle. Further, herbivore function was significantly higher on individual plants attacked by R. conicus, compared to plants attacked only by native herbivores. Insect densities and levels of seed destruction on plants attacked by multiple herbivore taxa never exceeded those observed for plants attacked by R. conicus alone, suggesting that increases in herbivore community function with invasion resulted from the inclusion of a functionally dominant insect rather than any complementarity effects. Some evidence for interference between insects emerged, with a trend towards reduced moth and weevil densities in two and three taxon mixtures compared with plants attacked by each taxon alone. However, density compensation was limited so that, overall, the addition of a novel herbivore to the floral guild was associated with a significant increase in herbivore community function and impact on seed production. The results suggest that invasion of a functionally dominant herbivore into an unsaturated recipient community can augment function within a resource guild.