bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
‘Want’ is a lexical and conceptual universal
Authors: Goddard Cliff , Wierzbicka Anna
Published: March 2010

The question of whether or not all languages have a word for ‘want’ (as in ‘I know what you want, I want the same’) is far more important than many linguists appear to realize. Having studied and debated this question for many years, we welcome Olesya Khanina’s (2008) paper “How universal is ‘wanting’?”, which, we believe, addresses a question of fundamental importance. Our own view — which we have sought to substantiate in a large number of publications, over many years (cf. Wierzbicka 1972, 1996; Goddard 1991, 2001; Goddard and Wierzbicka eds. 1994, 2002; Peeters ed. 2006) — is that WANT is a universal semantic prime, i.e. an indivisible unit of meaning with a lexical exponent in all languages. In the present article, we argue that although Khanina has produced valuable results about cross-linguistic patterns in the polysemy of exponents of WANT, she has failed to demonstrate her concluding point, namely, “that ‘want’ is not a universal semantic prime in the sense of the Natural Semantic Metalanguage … [and] that the inclusion of WANT in this list [of semantic primes] is indeed false” (p. 848). Briefly, we will argue that Khanina’s conclusion depends, first, on an a priori decision not to recognise the existence of polysemy; and second, on a misunderstanding of the NSM position on what it means to be a lexical exponent of a semantic prime. We will also argue that ‘wanting’ constitutes an indispensable conceptual building block in human communication and cognition, and in linguistic and psychological theorizing about communication and cognition.
Supporting minority women and girls: Key frames of reference and understanding for educators
Authors: Keddie Amanda
Published: March 2010

Recent high‐profile rape cases in Australia involving Muslim and Indigenous minority groups have heightened contention around issues of culture, gender and justice. The article critically examines the culturalising of rape as an ethnic minority issue in the public and legal discourse associated with these cases. This examination problematises the western‐driven narratives about minority women that undergird and make possible this culturalising and foregrounds Muslim and Indigenous feminist priorities concerning issues of gender equity and justice. Against this backdrop, the article draws parallels between the inferiorising of ethnic minority culture in dominant legal and public discourse and the reductionism of culture in education discourse. Towards realising the equity mandates of national schooling policy, the article outlines key frames of reference and understanding about culture, gender and justice necessary for enhancing educators’ support for ethnic minority women and girls.
Oil, land and conflict: the decline of Misseriyya pastoralism in Sudan1
Authors: Pantuliano Sara
Published: March 2010

This article examines the strategies employed by Misseriyya pastoralists in Sudan to cope with a number of external pressures ranging from adverse government policies, climatic changes, the impact of oil exploration, conflict and the effects of Sudan's Comprehensive Peace Agreement. The paper analyses the current political context and discusses the tensions with other local and national actors in the context of the unresolved dispute over Abyei.
MOTHER'S EMPLOYMENT: CULTURAL IMPRINT OR INSTITUTIONAL GOVERNANCE?
Authors: Hummelsheim Dina , Hirschle Jochen
Published: March 2010

In the public and scientific discussion on the political scope of action for improving employment opportunities for mothers, cultural aspects of female labour market participation often remain ignored. This study argues that employment decisions of mothers vary not only with the institutional settings but also with the dominant representative culture of a region. In order to study the effects of culture and institutions on maternal employment, Belgium, East, and West Germany are selected for empirical analysis. In a first step the article demonstrates that these regions differ considerably in terms of family political measures but also in terms of the cultural orientations with regard to female employment. While both Belgium and East Germany (but not West Germany) have well-developed public childcare systems for the under-3s, East Germans have a more favourable opinion towards female employment than Belgians. In a second step the study shows by means of panel analyses that these cultural differences strongly determine female employment behavior. Results indicate that both East and West German mothers have significantly higher employment probabilities in the long-run than Belgian mothers. The well-developed childcare infrastructure and the short parental leave lead only temporarily – right after childbirth – to higher employment rates among Belgian mothers. With increasing age of the child the significance of cultural dispositions result in higher overall employment probabilities among German mothers. These empirical findings support the theoretical approach of Pfau-Effinger in treating both institutional structures and culture as (equally) crucial factors in explaining cross-national differences in mothers' employment.
ELM suppression by resonant magnetic perturbation in high-performance, stationary plasmas
Authors: Hudson B. , Evans T.E. , Osborne T.H. , Petty C.C. , Snyder P.B. , Unterberg E.A.
Published: March 2010

The method of resonant magnetic perturbation (RMP) has been shown to suppress edge-localized modes (ELMs) in the high-performance, stationary (or ‘hybrid’) scenario in the DIII-D tokamak. Calculations of stability to peeling–ballooning (P–B) modes are shown to be consistent with the observed suppression of type-I ELMs, while the ELM suppression, dependence on edge safety factor and density pump-out are similar for hybrids and standard H-mode discharges. However, other small ELMs can appear when the edge safety factor is outside the resonance window or when the H-mode pedestal is perturbed, which are not related to P–B stability. The role of the edge bootstrap current in determining stochastic heat transport during RMP is discussed.
Improved survival with bisoprolol in patients with heart failure and renal impairment: an analysis of the cardiac insufficiency bisoprolol study II (CIBIS‐II) trial
Authors: Castagno Davide , Jhund Pardeep S. , McMurray John J.V. , Lewsey James D. , Erdmann Erland , Zannad Faiez , Remme Willem J. , Lopez‐Sendon José L. , Lechat Philippe , Follath Ferenc , Höglund Christer , Mareev Viacheslav , Sadowski Zygmunt , Seabra‐Gomes Ricardo J. , Dargie Henry J.
Published: March 2010

Aims

Information on the effectiveness of beta‐blockade in patients with heart failure (HF) and concomitant renal impairment is scarce and beta‐blockers are underutilized in these patients.

Methods and results

The Cockcroft–Gault formula normalized for body surface‐area was used to estimate renal function (eGFRBSA) in 2622 patients with HF, left ventricular ejection fraction ≤35%, New York Heart Association class III/IV and serum creatinine <300 μmol/L (3.4 mg/dL) in the second Cardiac Insufficiency Bisoprolol Study II. Patients were divided into four sub‐groups according to baseline eGFRBSA (<45, 45–60, 60–75 and ≥75 mL/min per 1.73 m2). Cox proportional‐hazards models adjusted for pre‐specified confounders were used to assess the effect of bisoprolol and potential heterogeneity of effect across the eGFRBSA sub‐groups. Older age, female‐sex, diabetes and ischaemic‐aetiology were more common in those with reduced eGFRBSA. The hazard associated with bisoprolol use for all‐cause mortality, the composite of all‐cause mortality or HF‐hospitalization and HF‐hospitalization alone was consistently <1.0 across eGFRBSA categories with no treatment by renal‐function interaction (P = 0.81, P = 0.66, P = 0.71, respectively). The rate of bisoprolol discontinuation was higher in patients with eGFRBSA < 45 mL/min per 1.73 m2. Nevertheless the absolute benefit of bisoprolol was greater for patients with chronic kidney disease compared with those without.

Conclusion

The beneficial effects of bisoprolol on mortality and hospitalization for worsening heart‐failure were not modified by baseline eGFRBSA. Renal impairment should not prevent the use of bisoprolol in patients with HF.
Assessing and grading congestion in acute heart failure: a scientific statement from the Acute Heart Failure Committee of the Heart Failure Association of the European Society of Cardiology and endorsed by the European Society of Intensive Care Medicine
Authors: Gheorghiade Mihai , Follath Ferenc , Ponikowski Piotr , Barsuk Jeffrey H. , Blair John E.A. , Cleland John G. , Dickstein Kenneth , Drazner Mark H. , Fonarow Gregg C. , Jaarsma Tiny , Jondeau Guillaume , Sendon Jose Lopez , Mebazaa Alexander , Metra Marco , Nieminen Markku , Pang Peter S. , Seferovic Petar , Stevenson Lynne W. , van Veldhuisen Dirk J. , Zannad Faiez , Anker Stefan D. , Rhodes Andrew , McMurray John J.V. , Filippatos Gerasimos
Published: March 2010

Patients with acute heart failure (AHF) require urgent in‐hospital treatment for relief of symptoms. The main reason for hospitalization is congestion, rather than low cardiac output. Although congestion is associated with a poor prognosis, many patients are discharged with persistent signs and symptoms of congestion and/or a high left ventricular filling pressure. Available data suggest that a pre‐discharge clinical assessment of congestion is often not performed, and even when it is performed, it is not done systematically because no method to assess congestion prior to discharge has been validated. Grading congestion would be helpful for initiating and following response to therapy. We have reviewed a variety of strategies to assess congestion which should be considered in the care of patients admitted with HF. We propose a combination of available measurements of congestion. Key elements in the measurement of congestion include bedside assessment, laboratory analysis, and dynamic manoeuvres. These strategies expand by suggesting a routine assessment of congestion and a pre‐discharge scoring system. A point system is used to quantify the degree of congestion. This score offers a new instrument to direct both current and investigational therapies designed to optimize volume status during and after hospitalization. In conclusion, this document reviews the available methods of evaluating congestion, provides suggestions on how to properly perform these measurements, and proposes a method to quantify the amount of congestion present.
A guide to toxicity assessment and monitoring effects at lower levels of biological organization following marine oil spills in European waters
Authors: Martínez-Gómez C. , Vethaak A. D. , Hylland K. , Burgeot T. , Köhler A. , Lyons B. P. , Thain J. , Gubbins M. J. , Davies I. M.
Published: March 2010

Martínez-Gómez, C., Vethaak, A. D., Hylland, K., Burgeot, T., Köhler, A., Lyons, B. P., Thain, J., Gubbins, M. J., and Davies, I. M. 2010. A guide to toxicity assessment and monitoring effects at lower levels of biological organization following marine oil spills in European waters. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 67: 1105–1118. The usefulness of applying biological-effects techniques (bioassays and biomarkers) as tools to assist in evaluating damage to the health of marine ecosystems produced by oil spills has been demonstrated clearly during recent decades. Guidelines are provided for the use of biological-effects techniques in oil spill pollution monitoring for the NE Atlantic coasts and the NW Mediterranean Sea. The emphasis is on fish and invertebrates and on methods at lower levels of organization (in vitro, suborganismal, and individual). Guidance is provided to researchers and environmental managers on: hazard identification of the fuel oil released; selection of appropriate bioassays and biomarkers for environmental risk assessment; selection of sentinel species; the design of spatial and temporal surveys; and the control of potential confounding factors in the sampling and interpretation of biological-effects data. It is proposed that after an oil spill incident, a monitoring programme using integrated chemical and biological techniques be initiated as soon as possible for ecological risk assessment, pollution control, and monitoring the efficacy of remediation. This can be done by developing new biomonitoring programmes or by adding appropriate biological-effects methods to the existing monitoring programmes.
Differentiating Phytophthora ramorum and P. kernoviae from Other Species Isolated from Foliage of Rhododendrons
Authors: Widmer T. L.
Published: March 2010

Phytophthora species are among plant pathogens that are the most threatening to agriculture. After the discovery of P. ramorum, surveys have identified new species and new reports on rhododendrons. Based upon propagule production, morphology, and colony growth, a dichotomous key was produced that can differentiate P. ramorum and P. kernoviae from other species known to be pathogenic to aerial plant parts of rhododendrons. These distinctions were made without molecular tools and wide-ranging variables such as propagule sizes and can be made without the need for a large culture collection.

Accepted for publication 17 December 2009. Published 17 March 2010.
“Ring Pledget” a New Concept for Secure Apex Closure during Transapical Aortic Valve Implantation
Authors: Astarci Parla , Glineur David , Kefer Joelle , Renkin Jean , Vanoverschelde Jean-Louis , Khoury Gebrine El
Published: March 2010

Transapical aortic valve implantation requires puncture of the left ventricle apex and insertion of a 32-French delivery sheath. A critical step in the procedure consists of secure closure of the ventricular apex. We describe 2 cases of apical rupture of 42 transapical aortic valve implantations. Furthermore, we describe the use of a newly designed single circular Teflon pledget that can help to avoid this complication. This pledget provides a more secure and uniform shrinkage of the entire apex to close the defect left by the delivery sheath.
Medtentia Double Helix Mitral Annuloplasty System Evaluated in a Porcine Experimental Model
Authors: Jensen Henrik , Simpanen Jarmo , Smerup Morten , Bjerre Marianne , Bramsen Morten , Werkkala Kalervo , Vainikka Tiina , Hasenkam J. Michael , Wierup Per
Published: March 2010

Objective

To further develop and improve minimally invasive surgical procedures, dedicated appropriate surgical devices are mandatory. In this study, the safety and feasibility of implanting the novel Medtentia double helix mitral annuloplasty ring, which uses the key-ring principle to potentially allow faster and sutureless implantation, was assessed using both minimally invasive and conventional surgical techniques. Because of ethical concerns, a human compatible porcine experimental model of mitral valve surgery was used.

Methods

Twelve 50-kg pigs were allocated to implantation of the Medtentia double helix annuloplasty ring using conventional midline sternotomy including cardioplegic arrest or a minimally invasive approach using peripheral cannulation and left ventricular fibrillation. Ten weeks after surgery, echocardiography was performed to assess mitral valve function. Animals were then killed, and gross mitral valve anatomy was examined ex vivo.

Results

All animals survived 10 weeks without developing mitral regurgitation, structural leaflet damage, ring dehiscence, or endocarditis. In the minimally invasive compared with the midline sternotomy group (mean ± SD), significantly reduced recovery time (80 ± 16vs. 327 ± 23 minutes, P < 0.01) and a tendency toward increased operating time (199 ± 33 vs. 168 ± 15 minutes, P > 0.05) and cardiopulmonary bypass time (98 ± 12 vs. 91 ± 11 minutes, P > 0.05) were observed.

Conclusions

By using a both minimally invasive and conventional midline sternotomy implantation techniques, the Medtentia double helix annuloplasty ring showed no mitral valve dysfunction or tissue damage 10 weeks postoperatively.
“Beyond Beating Heart Surgery” Heartstring Device Protects against Perioperative Neurological Events
Authors: Sakopoulos Andreas G. , Jacobson John G. , Wilson Don R. , Huse Wilfred M.
Published: March 2010

Objective

There is a growing body of evidence favoring off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery (OPCAB) over traditional coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) with cardiopulmonary bypass as a method for reducing perioperative neurologic events. Aortic manipulation, whether with OPCAB or coronary artery bypass surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass, is strongly linked with adverse neurologic outcomes. Although the aortic “no-touch” technique has merit, most cardiac surgeons are reluctant to base entire myocardial revascularization exclusively on mammary pedicles. The purpose of this study was to analyze our experience with OPCAB combined with the use of a Heartstring proximal anastomotic device, as a strategy for reducing clinically evident cerebrovascular accidents.

Methods

Two hundred twenty-seven consecutive isolated OPCAB were performed without the use of a side-biting aortic clamp. In all these operations, a Heartstring device was used, permitting clampless hand-sutured proximal anastomoses. All patients were managed in this fashion regardless of the status of their ascending aorta. A mean of 3.4 bypasses were performed during each operation, with one or two mammary arteries harvested routinely. In 98% of patients, a single proximal anastomosis was performed; there was liberal use of sequential bypass grafts.

Results

Mean age was 69.3 years, with 17% octogenarians. Preexisting cerebrovascular disease was present in 22.4% of patients. There were no clinically evident perioperative neurologic events in any patients. There were no operative deaths.

Conclusions

This series suggests that OPCAB performed with a single, clampless, proximal aortic anastomosis, and with a Heartstring device may protect against perioperative strokes.
Surgical Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation in Cardiac Surgery a Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review
Authors: Cheng Davy C. H. , Ad Niv , Martin Janet , Berglin Eva E. , Chang Byung-Chul , Doukas George , Gammie James S. , Nitta Takashi , Wolf Randall K. , Puskas John D.
Published: March 2010

Objectives

This meta-analysis sought to determine whether surgical ablation improves clinical outcomes and resource utilization compared with no ablation in adult patients with persistent and permanent atrial fibrillation (AF) undergoing cardiac surgery.

Methods

A comprehensive search was undertaken to identify all randomized (RCT) and nonrandomized (non-RCT) controlled trials of surgical ablation versus no ablation in patients with AF undergoing cardiac surgery up to April 2009. The primary outcome was sinus rhythm. Secondary outcomes included survival and any other reported clinically relevant outcome or indicator of resource utilization. Odds ratios (OR) and weighted mean differences (WMD) and their 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were analyzed as appropriate using the random effects model. Heterogeneity was measured using the I2 statistic. Meta-regression was performed to explore the relationship between the benefit from surgical AF and duration of follow-up.

Results

Thirty-three studies met the inclusion criteria (10 RCTs and 23 non-RCTs) for a total of 4647 patients. The number of patients in sinus rhythm was significantly improved at discharge in the surgical AF ablation group versus (68.6%) the surgery alone group (23.0%) in RCTs (OR 10.1, 95% CI 4.5–22.5) and non-RCTs (OR 7.15, 95% CI 3.42–14.95). This effect on sinus rhythm (74.6% vs. 18.4%) remained at follow-up of 1 to 5 years (OR 6.7, 95% CI 2.8–15.7 for RCT, and OR 15.5, 95% CI 6.6–36.7 for non-RCT). The risk of all-cause mortality at 30 days was not different between the groups in RCT (OR 1.20, 95% CI 0.52–3.16) or non-RCT studies (OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.52–1.87). In studies reporting all-cause mortality at 1 year or more (up to 5 years), mortality did not differ in RCT studies (OR 1.21, 95% CI 0.59–2.51) but was significantly reduced in non-RCT studies (OR 0.54, 95% CI 0.31–0.96). Stroke incidence was not reduced significantly; however, in meta-regression, the risk of stroke decreased significantly with longer follow-up. Other clinical outcomes were similar between groups. Operation time was significantly increased with surgical AF ablation; however, overall impact on length of stay was variable.

Conclusions

In patients with persistent or permanent AF who present for cardiac surgery, the addition of surgical AF ablation led to a significantly higher rate of sinus rhythm in RCT and non-RCT studies compared with cardiac surgery alone, and this effect remains robust over the longer term (1–5 years). Although non-RCT studies suggest the possibility of reduced risk of stroke and death, this remains to be proven in prospective RCTs with adequate power and follow-up.
Early Outcomes after Bilateral Thoracoscopy versus Median Sternotomy for Lung Volume Reduction
Authors: Puc Matthew M. , Sonnad Seema S. , Shrager Joseph B.
Published: March 2010

Objective

A National Emphysema Treatment Trial subanalysis, although finally describing outcomes as “comparable,” suggested that bilateral lung volume reduction surgery (LVRS) by video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) may be slightly less morbid than by median sternotomy (MS). We report a single surgeon experience using both the MS and VATS approaches to provide additional information on this issue in a setting of uniform patient selection and perioperative management. Our hypothesis was that a VATS approach would provide equivalent or less morbidity than MS despite being applied to a group of patients subjectively selected to be higher risk than those undergoing MS.

Methods

Consecutive patients over a 9-year period underwent LVRS by one surgeon by either MS or VATS in a nonrandomized fashion. Thoracoscopy was selected over MS primarily when the surgeon estimated a greater overall risk profile and thus a greater chance of morbidity/mortality in a particular patient.

Results

There were 15 patients in the VATS group and 35 in the MS group. In terms of measures of risk profile, there were no differences between the groups that met statistical significance, but several values trended toward higher risk within the VATS group (eg, age, 63 VATS vs. 59 MS, P = 0.08; moderate pulmonary hypertension, 38% VATS vs. 14% MS, P = 0.11; and residual volume, 241% VATS vs. 226% MS, P = 0.32). With regard to outcomes, operative time was significantly longer in the VATS group (VATS = 155 minutes vs. MS = 129 minutes, P = 0.01). All other outcomes, including the incidence of major complications (13.3% VATS vs. 17.1% MS, P = 0.39), were similar between the groups. There was a single death within 90 days (1.9% of entire series; 2.9% of MS group).

Conclusions

In this series, although patients undergoing LVRS by VATS tended to have a higher risk profile, their outcomes were no worse than in those undergoing LVRS by MS. This suggests that the VATS approach to bilateral LVRS may incur slightly less morbidity and thus may be the best option in the most compromised patients who is nonetheless felt will benefit from LVRS.
Limnobacter litoralis sp. nov., a thiosulfate-oxidizing, heterotrophic bacterium isolated from a volcanic deposit, and emended description of the genus Limnobacter
Authors: Lu Hongsheng , Sato Yoshinori , Fujimura Reiko , Nishizawa Tomoyasu , Kamijo Takashi , Ohta Hiroyuki
Published: March 2010

A Gram-negative, aerobic, heterotrophic bacterium, designated KP1-19T, was isolated from a 22-year-old volcanic deposit at a site lacking vegetation on the island of Miyake, Japan. Strain KP1-19Twas able to use thiosulfate (optimum concentration 10 mM) as an additional energy source. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis indicated that strain KP1-19Twas closely related toLimnobacter thiooxidansCS-K2Twithin the classBetaproteobacteria(97.7 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity). The cellular fatty acid profile was characteristic of the genusLimnobacter: the major fatty acids (>5 %) were C16 : 0, C16 : 1ω7cand C18 : 1ω7cand minor amounts of C10 : 03-OH were also found. DNA–DNA relatedness between strain KP1-19TandL. thiooxidansLMG 19593Twas 18 %. Therefore, strain KP1-19Trepresents a novel species, for which the nameLimnobacter litoralissp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is KP1-19T(=LMG 24869T=NBRC 105857T=CIP 109929T).
Cocleimonas flava gen. nov., sp. nov., a gammaproteobacterium isolated from sand snail (Umbonium costatum)
Authors: Tanaka Naoto , Romanenko Lyudmila A. , Iino Takao , Frolova Galina M. , Mikhailov Valery V.
Published: March 2010

A Gram-stain-negative, aerobic, yellow-pigmented, heterotrophic, sulfur-oxidizing, non-motile, rod-shaped bacterium, designated KMM 3898T, was isolated from an internal tissue of the sand snailUmbonium costatum, collected from the shallow sediments of the Sea of Japan. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that strain KMM 3898Tformed a distinct phylogenetic lineage within the classGammaproteobacteriaand was most closely related toLeucothrix mucorDSM 2157T(89.2 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity) and members of the genusThiothrix(86.7–88.5 %). Chemotaxonomically, strain KMM 3898Tcontained the isoprenoid quinone Q-8, the polar lipids phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, diphosphatidylglycerol and an unknown phospholipid and the fatty acids C18 : 1ω7c, C16 : 1ω7cand C16 : 0as predominant components (>10 %). The DNA G+C content of strain KMM 3898Twas 43.4 mol%. On the basis of phenotypic features and phylogenetic analysis, strain KMM 3898Trepresents a novel genus and species, for which the nameCocleimonas flavagen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is KMM 3898T(=NRIC 0757T=JCM 16494T).
Nocardia niwae sp. nov., isolated from human pulmonary sources
Authors: Moser Benjamin D. , Klenk Hans-Peter , Schumann Peter , Pötter Gabriele , Lasker Brent A. , Steigerwalt Arnold G. , Hinrikson Hans P. , Brown June M.
Published: March 2010

Members of the genus Nocardia are responsible for cutaneous, pulmonary and disseminated human infections. From 2003 to 2008, four nocardioform strains (W8027, W8681, W9071 and W9241T) were isolated from patients in the state of Florida, USA. Ribosomal gene sequencing analysis suggested that a novel species of the genus Nocardia had been isolated. These strains were subjected to a taxonomic analysis using a polyphasic approach. Phenotypic analyses included morphological examination, biochemical profiling and antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Molecular studies included 16S rRNA and DNA gyrase B subunit (gyrB) gene sequence analyses and DNA–DNA hybridization. Phylogenetic neighbours were determined through 16S rRNA and gyrB gene sequence analyses. Phenotypic characteristics that differentiated the novel isolates from phylogenetically related species were growth at 45 °C, and three of the four novel strains utilized l-rhamnose. The antimicrobial profiles could not reliably distinguish the novel species from related nocardiae. Analysis showed that the 16S rRNA gene sequences of the four novel isolates were identical. The blast analysis of the near full-length 16S rRNA gene showed 99.2 % sequence similarity to Nocardia araoensis DSM 44729T, Nocardia arthritidis DSM 44731T and Nocardia beijingensis JCM 10666T, 98.7 % to Nocardia amamiensis DSM 45066T, 98.2 % to Nocardia pneumoniae JCM 12119T and 97.8 % to Nocardia takedensis JCM 13313T. Analysis of partial gyrB gene sequences showed that the novel isolates had 95.4 % similarity to N. arthritidis DSM 44731T, 95.3 % to Nocardia gamkensis DSM 44956T, 94.4 % to N. pneumoniae JCM 12119T, 93.8 % to Nocardia asiatica DSM 44668T, 93.5 % to N. amamiensis DSM 45066T, 93.4 % to N. beijingensis JCM 10666T and 93.2 % to N. araoensis DSM 44729T. The DNA–DNA relatedness values between the four novel strains were 86–89 %; the relatedness value for strain W9241T compared with N. beijingensis JCM 10666T was 47 % and 46 % with N. araoensis DSM 44729T, 44 % with N. arthritidis DSM 44731T, 32 % with N. amamiensis DSM 45066T and 20 % with N. asiatica DSM 44668T. The results of the taxonomic analysis suggested that the new isolates represent a novel species of the genus Nocardia for which the name Nocardia niwae sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is W9241T (=DSM 45340T=CCUG 57756T).
Bacteroides paurosaccharolyticus sp. nov., isolated from a methanogenic reactor treating waste from cattle farms
Authors: Ueki Atsuko , Abe Kunihiro , Ohtaki Yoshimi , Kaku Nobuo , Watanabe Kazuya , Ueki Katsuji
Published: March 2010

A strictly anaerobic bacterial strain (WK042T) was isolated from rice-straw residue in a methanogenic reactor treating waste from cattle farms in Japan. Cells were Gram-staining-negative, non-motile, non-spore-forming rods. Growth was stimulated well by haemin, and was enhanced by cobalamin (vitamin B12). Strain WK042Tutilized arabinose, xylose, glucose, mannose and aesculin as preferred substrates. Maltose, dextrin, glycogen, starch and pectin were also utilized, although growth on these substrates was much slower. The strain produced acetate, propionate and succinate from these saccharides. The strain was slightly alkaliphilic, with optimum growth at pH 7.7. The temperature range for growth was 10–40 °C, the optimum being 35 °C. The strain was sensitive to bile. The major cellular fatty acids were anteiso-C15 : 0, iso-C17 : 03-OH and C15 : 0. Menaquinone 11 (MK-11) was the major respiratory quinone and the genomic DNA G+C content was 41.0 mol%. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences placed the strain in the phylumBacteroidetes. Strain WK042Twas related distantly to the type strains of species in the cluster includingBacteroides massiliensis,Bacteroides vulgatusandBacteroides dorei(91–92 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity). Based on data from the present phylogenetic, physiological and chemotaxonomic analyses, strain WK042Tis considered to represent a novel species of the genusBacteroides, for which the nameBacteroides paurosaccharolyticussp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is WK042T(=JCM 15092T=DSM 21004T).
Systemic or intra-amygdala infusion of the benzodiazepine, midazolam, impairs learning, but facilitates re-learning to inhibit fear responses in extinction
Authors: Hart Genevra , Harris Justin A. , Westbrook R. Frederick
Published: March 2010

A series of experiments used rats to study the effect of a systemic or intra-amygdala infusion of the benzodiazepine, midazolam, on learning and re-learning to inhibit context conditioned fear (freezing) responses. Rats were subjected to two context-conditioning episodes followed by extinction under drug or vehicle, or to two cycles of context conditioning and extinction with the second extinction under drug or vehicle. A 20-min extinction under vehicle resulted in better long-term inhibition on a subsequent drug-free retention test than a 4-min extinction under vehicle, or a 20-min, as well as a 4-min, extinction under drug. However, a 20-min, as well as a 4-min, second extinction under drug was just as effective in producing long-term inhibition as a 20-min second extinction under vehicle and this inhibition was greater than that produced by a 4-min second extinction under vehicle. Initial extinction of 5, 10, or 20 min were equally effective in producing long-term inhibition when the second extinction under drug was 20 min; and 5-, 10-, or 20-min second extinction under drug were equally effective in producing long-term inhibition when the initial extinction was 5 min. A 4- or 20-min second extinction under an infusion of drug into the basolateral amygdala (BLA) was as effective in producing long-term inhibition as a 20-min second extinction under vehicle and was more effective than a 4-min second extinction under vehicle. The results show that midazolam impairs learning to inhibit fear responses but spares and even facilitates re-learning this inhibition.
A Complex Interplay of Three R2R3 MYB Transcription Factors Determines the Profile of Aliphatic Glucosinolates in Arabidopsis
Authors: Sønderby Ida Elken , Burow Meike , Rowe Heather C. , Kliebenstein Daniel J. , Halkier Barbara Ann
Published: March 2010

While R2R3 MYB transcription factors are a large gene family of transcription factors within plants, comprehensive functional data in planta are still scarce. A model for studying R2R3 MYB control of metabolic networks is the glucosinolates (GLSs), secondary metabolites that control plant resistance against insects and pathogens and carry cancer-preventive properties. Three related members of the R2R3 MYB transcription factor family within Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana), MYB28, MYB29, and MYB76, are the commonly defined regulators of aliphatic GLS biosynthesis. We utilized new genotypes and systems analysis techniques to test the existing regulatory model in which MYB28 is the dominant regulator, MYB29 plays a minor rheostat role, and MYB76 is largely uninvolved. We unequivocally show that MYB76 is not dependent on MYB28 and MYB29 for induction of aliphatic GLSs and that MYB76 plays a role in determining the spatial distribution of aliphatic GLSs within the leaf, pointing at a potential role of MYB76 in transport regulation. Transcriptional profiling of knockout mutants revealed that GLS metabolite levels are uncoupled from the level of transcript accumulation for aliphatic GLS biosynthetic genes. This uncoupling of chemotypes from biosynthetic transcripts suggests revising our view of the regulation of GLS metabolism from a simple linear transcription factor-promoter model to a more modular system in which transcription factors cause similar chemotypes via nonoverlapping regulatory patterns. Similar regulatory networks might exist in other secondary pathways.
CLE Peptides Control Medicago truncatula Nodulation Locally and Systemically
Authors: Mortier Virginie , Den Herder Griet , Whitford Ryan , Van de Velde Willem , Rombauts Stephane , D'haeseleer Katrien , Holsters Marcelle , Goormachtig Sofie
Published: March 2010

The CLAVATA3/embryo-surrounding region (CLE) peptides control the fine balance between proliferation and differentiation in plant development. We studied the role of CLE peptides during indeterminate nodule development and identified 25 MtCLE peptide genes in the Medicago truncatula genome, of which two genes, MtCLE12 and MtCLE13, had nodulation-related expression patterns that were linked to proliferation and differentiation. MtCLE13 expression was up-regulated early in nodule development. A high-to-low expression gradient radiated from the inner toward the outer cortical cell layers in a region defining the incipient nodule. At later stages, MtCLE12 and MtCLE13 were expressed in differentiating nodules and in the apical part of mature, elongated nodules. Functional analysis revealed a putative role for MtCLE12 and MtCLE13 in autoregulation of nodulation, a mechanism that controls the number of nodules and involves systemic signals mediated by a leucine-rich repeat receptor-like kinase, SUNN, which is active in the shoot. When MtCLE12 and MtCLE13 were ectopically expressed in transgenic roots, nodulation was abolished at the level of the nodulation factor signal transduction, and this inhibition involved long-distance signaling. In addition, composite plants with roots ectopically expressing MtCLE12 or MtCLE13 had elongated petioles. This systemic effect was not observed in transgenic roots ectopically expressing MtCLE12 and MtCLE13 in a sunn-1 mutant background, although nodulation was still strongly reduced. These results suggest multiple roles for CLE signaling in nodulation.
Involvement of Abscisic Acid in the Coordinated Regulation of a Stress-Inducible Hexose Transporter (VvHT5) and a Cell Wall Invertase in Grapevine in Response to Biotrophic Fungal Infection
Authors: Hayes Matthew A. , Feechan Angela , Dry Ian B.
Published: March 2010

Biotrophic fungal and oomycete pathogens alter carbohydrate metabolism in infected host tissues. Symptoms such as elevated soluble carbohydrate concentrations and increased invertase activity suggest that a pathogen-induced carbohydrate sink is established. To identify pathogen-induced regulators of carbohydrate sink strength, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to measure transcript levels of invertase and hexose transporter genes in biotrophic pathogen-infected grapevine (Vitis vinifera) leaves. The hexose transporter VvHT5 was highly induced in coordination with the cell wall invertase gene VvcwINV by powdery and downy mildew infection. However, similar responses were also observed in response to wounding, suggesting that this is a generalized response to stress. Analysis of the VvHT5 promoter region indicated the presence of multiple abscisic acid (ABA) response elements, suggesting a role for ABA in the transition from source to sink under stress conditions. ABA treatment of grape leaves was found to reproduce the same gene-specific transcriptional changes as observed under biotic and abiotic stress conditions. Furthermore, the key regulatory ABA biosynthetic gene, VvNCED1, was activated under these same stress conditions. VvHT5 promoter::β-glucuronidase-directed expression in transgenic Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) was activated by infection with powdery mildew and by ABA treatment, and the expression was closely associated with vascular tissue adjacent to infected regions. Unlike VvHT1 and VvHT3, which appear to be predominantly involved in hexose transport in developing leaves and berries, VvHT5 appears to have a specific role in enhancing sink strength under stress conditions, and this is controlled through ABA. Our data suggest a central role for ABA in the regulation of VvcwINV and VvHT5 expression during the transition from source to sink in response to infection by biotrophic pathogens.
ArabidopsisRAP2.2: An Ethylene Response Transcription Factor That Is Important for Hypoxia Survival
Authors: Hinz Manuela , Wilson Iain W. , Yang Jun , Buerstenbinder Katharina , Llewellyn Danny , Dennis Elizabeth S. , Sauter Margret , Dolferus Rudy
Published: March 2010

Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) RAP2.2 (At3g14230) is an APETALA2/ethylene response factor-type transcription factor that belongs to the same subfamily as the rice (Oryza sativa) submergence tolerance gene SUB1A. RAP2.2 is expressed at constitutively high levels in the roots and at lower levels in the shoots, where it is induced by darkness. Effector studies and analysis of ethylene signal transduction mutants indicate that RAP2.2 is induced in shoots by ethylene and functions in an ethylene-controlled signal transduction pathway. Overexpression of RAP2.2 resulted in improved plant survival under hypoxia (low-oxygen) stress, whereas lines containing T-DNA knockouts of the gene had poorer survival rates than the wild type. This indicates that RAP2.2 is important in a plant's ability to resist hypoxia stress. Observation of the expression pattern of 32 low-oxygen and ethylene-associated genes showed that RAP2.2 affects only part of the low-oxygen response, particularly the induction of genes encoding sugar metabolism and fermentation pathway enzymes, as well as ethylene biosynthesis genes. Our results provide a new insight on the regulation of gene expression under low-oxygen conditions. Lighting plays an important regulatory role and is intertwined with hypoxia conditions; both stimuli may act collaboratively to regulate the hypoxic response.
Gibberellins Regulate Lateral Root Formation inPopulusthrough Interactions with Auxin and Other Hormones
Authors: Gou Jiqing , Strauss Steven H. , Tsai Chung Jui , Fang Kai , Chen Yiru , Jiang Xiangning , Busov Victor B.
Published: March 2010

The role of gibberellins (GAs) in regulation of lateral root development is poorly understood. We show that GA-deficient (35S:PcGA2ox1) and GA-insensitive (35S:rgl1) transgenic Populus exhibited increased lateral root proliferation and elongation under in vitro and greenhouse conditions, and these effects were reversed by exogenous GA treatment. In addition, RNA interference suppression of two poplar GA 2-oxidases predominantly expressed in roots also decreased lateral root formation. GAs negatively affected lateral root formation by inhibiting lateral root primordium initiation. A whole-genome microarray analysis of root development in GA-modified transgenic plants revealed 2069 genes with significantly altered expression. The expression of 1178 genes, including genes that promote cell proliferation, growth, and cell wall loosening, corresponded to the phenotypic severity of the root traits when transgenic events with differential phenotypic expression were compared. The array data and direct hormone measurements suggested crosstalk of GA signaling with other hormone pathways, including auxin and abscisic acid. Transgenic modification of a differentially expressed gene encoding an auxin efflux carrier suggests that GA modulation of lateral root development is at least partly imparted by polar auxin transport modification. These results suggest a mechanism for GA-regulated modulation of lateral root proliferation associated with regulation of plant allometry during the stress response.
Is e‐learning replacing the traditional lecture?
Authors: Owens Jonathan D. , Price Liz
Published: March 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review some of the learning technologies associated with teaching and learning in higher education (HE). It looks at e‐learning and information technology (IT) as tools for replacing the traditional learning experience in HE, i.e. the “chalk and talk” lecture and seminar. HE is on the threshold of being transformed through the application of learning technologies. Are we on the brink of a new way of learning in HE after a tried and tested formula over 800 years?

Design/methodology/approach

Adopting a case based approach, the fieldwork for this research took place at two UK Higher Education Institutes (HEIs). A number of units that included IT‐based learning were identified. All units included a web site that was aimed at supporting students' learning. The data were collected through unstructured discussion with the lecturer and a questionnaire to students.

Findings

This paper considers and highlights the key findings from the sample linking them to the literature with the purpose of testing the aim/title of this paper. Evidence suggested the implications for HEIs are they cannot assume that presenting new technologies automatically makes their institutions “youth friendly”; this new generation would like to see some concrete benefits of technology.

Originality/value

From this small‐scale investigation this paper attempts to investigate in which direction HE might go. Is this generation wanting a step change? Evidence from this research suggests not – new technologies will only play a bit part. They can help free up time in order to engage and support students in new and interesting ways.
Sustainability of curriculum development for enterprise education
Authors: Roffe Ian
Published: March 2010

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the variety of approaches to curriculum development for enterprise education developed for schools, further, and higher education under an Entrepreneurship Action Plan in Wales and to consider the sustainability issues for delivery in these sectors.

Design/methodology/approach

This investigation adopted a case study approach that obtained post‐development information obtained from stakeholders in curriculum development in the three sectors based on semi‐structured interviews. The paper presents an analysis of the curriculum development initiatives in schools, further and higher education based on a three‐stage categorisation model: inspiration, information and implementation and activities involving cross‐sector approaches.

Findings

Stakeholders generally provided positive feedback toward the curriculum development material from each sector. Curriculum development applied to fostering enterprising qualities and practical support produced a broad span of diverse actions across Wales covering inspiring, information and implementation. There are consistent threads in enterprise content of attitude, creativity, relationships and organisation. Curriculum content needs to be maintained and updated in a sustainable way and a sustainability framework is proposed together with a set of recommendations for each sector.

Practical implications

Suggestions on how to further strengthen and develop the sustainability of enterprise education programmes are provided for the three sectors: schools, further, and higher education, for example, through centralised curriculum support, the extension of credit‐based courses and structured staff development for stakeholders.

Originality/value

Enterprise education is acknowledged to have an influence on the knowledge, skills and attitudes of students and can contribute to entrepreneurship. Curriculum development in enterprise education enables educational institutions to stimulate interest of students and to foster entrepreneurial qualities among potential entrepreneurs in society. Approaches to curriculum development for three educational sectors are examined, categorised and recommendations advanced for sustaining such enterprise education programmes over an extended period of time.
Managing the transition to university for disabled students
Authors: Taylor Mark , Baskett Mike , Wren Chris
Published: March 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine mechanisms for managing the transition from school/college/work to university for disabled students

Design/methodology/approach

A research project using a case study methodology in a UK university department was conducted over a four year period

Findings

The paper finds that it is important that students with a disability who enter university identify themselves as early as possible so that appropriate adjustments can be made where required to teaching, assessment and pastoral care. It is also important that the transition to university is appropriately co‐ordinated both centrally by university wide disability support services and within the relevant university department. Ideally there should be anticipation of adjustments that may be required by the students with a disability.

Research limitations/implications

Although the case study reported in this paper focusses on just one university department, the number of students with a disability entering UK higher education is likely to increase and higher education institutions need to be aware of the adjustments that may potentially be required, as well as the timeliness of such adjustments.

Originality/value

In previous decades few students with a disability have attended university in the UK. However, growing numbers of such students are now attending university, but thus far little, if any research has been conducted regarding the adjustments that may need to be made for such students.