bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Homing Devices in Choice of Tort Law: Australian, British, and Canadian Approaches
Authors: Mortensen Reid
Published: November 2006

Since 1994, Canada, the United Kingdom and Australia have adopted new choice of law rules for cross-border torts that, in different ways, centre on the application of the law of the place where the tort occurred (thelex loci delicti). All three countries abandoned some species of the rule inPhillips v Eyre, which required some reference to the law of the forum (thelex fori) as well as thelex loci delicti. However, predictions were made that, where possible, courts in these countries would continue to show a strong inclination to apply thelex foriin cross-border tort cases—and would use a range of homing devices to do so. A comprehensive survey and analysis of the cases that have been decided under the Australian, British and Canadianlex loci delictiregimes suggests that courts in these countries do betray a homing instinct, but one that has actually been tightly restrained by appeal courts. Where application of thelex foriwas formally allowed by use of a ‘flexible exception’ in Canada and the United Kingdom, this has been contained by courts of first appeal. Indeed, only the continuing characterization of the assessment of damages as a procedural question in Canada and the United Kingdom, seems to remain as a significant homing device for courts in these countries.
Common Law, Civil Law, and the Single European Market for Insurances
Authors: Rühl Giesela
Published: November 2006

Fifty years after the foundation of the European Communities, the single market for insurances has not yet become a reality. Despite the harmonization of insurance supervision law, insurance companies still essentially refrain from cross-border activity when it comes to small commercial and consumer risks. Since this finding is usually attributed to the lack of common rules on insurance contracts, this article sets out to lay the foundation for the harmonization of the corresponding national laws. By providing a comparative analysis of two of the most pervasive issues in consumer insurance contract law, the article proves that common law and civil law are not as far apart as commonly assumed. It thus refutes the widely held belief that the insurance contract laws of common law and civil law countries are too different to be harmonized.
Private International Law and the African Economic Community: A Plea for Greater Attention
Authors: Oppong Richard Frimpong
Published: November 2006

Private international law deals with problems that arise when transactions or claims involve a foreign element. Such problems are most frequent in a setting that allows for the growth of international relationships, be they commercial or personal. Economic integration provides such a setting and allows for the free movement of persons, goods, services and capital across national boundaries. The facilitation of factor mobility resulting from economic integration and the concomitant growth in international relationships results in problems which call for resolution using the tools of private international law. An economic community cannot function solely on the basis of economic rules; attention must also be paid to the rules for settling cross-border disputes. Consequently, considerable attention is given to the subject within the European Union (EU)1and other economic communities.2
Indoctrination, Secularism, Religious Liberty, and the Echr
Authors: Langlaude Sylvie
Published: November 2006

With its judgment inLeyla Şahin v Turkey,1the Grand Chamber of the European Court of Human Rights has once again addressed the place of religion within the European Convention system. The Court considers two types of cases. The first focuses on individuals but has repercussions on the relationship between State and religious communities. The Court is much more individualistic in these cases, in that it focuses more on the individual and the protection of the rights and freedoms of others. The Court emphasizes values such as the prevention of indoctrination, neutrality, secularism and laïcité, especially in relation to Islam. The Court tries to promote and enforce a normative order of secularism but this has unfortunate consequences for religious freedom. The second deals with the compatibility of entire domestic regimes regulating religious affairs with the Convention, including questions of legal personality and registration, leadership and property ownership, positive obligations of the State towards the protection of religious communities against third parties, and freedom of religious choice. The aim is to promote tolerance, religious diversity, pluralism and a market place within religious beliefs. It will be shown that these two strands in the caselaw do not always sit happily together.
Hong Kong's Exercise of External Autonomy: a Multi-Faceted Appraisal
Authors: Mushkat Roda
Published: November 2006

Since the resumption of China's sovereignty over Hong Kong in 1997, academic and policy interest in its unique status has largely subsided. This may be attributed to the fact that the issue has formally been settled and the absence of effective mechanisms for monitoring and enforcement of compliance with the bilateral accord underpinning the new legal order. The marginalization of the subject has arguably left an analytical vacuum as several dimensions of the post-1997 picture merit attention on the part of international lawyers. One topic that continues to be of both practical and theoretical importance—the unconstrained pursuit, within the ‘One Country, Two Systems’ framework, of key strategic goals in the external arena—is addressed in this paper.
The Chatham House Principles of International Law on the Use of Force in Self-Defence
Authors: Wilmshurst Elizabeth
Published: November 2006

There are few more controversial questions in international law than the proper limits of the right of self-defence. The rules are being challenged in the light of what are seen as new threats from terrorism and from the possession of weapons of mass destruction. The UN High-level Panel, in its report to the Secretary-General of 2004, concluded that in all cases relating to decisions to use military force ‘we believe that the Charter of the United Nations, properly understood and applied, is equal to the task’.4 The Principles that follow are intended to provide a clear statement of the rules of international law ‘properly understood’ governing the use of force by states in self-defence.
I. Fundamental Rights
Authors: McMahon Joe
Published: November 2006

The goal of constructing an Area of Freedom, Security and Justice across the Union was agreed at the Tampere EU Summit of 1999. The objective was to create the conditions in which EU citizens could exercise their rights of free movement while at the same time addressing legitimate security concerns. Central to this debate has been the need to ensure that not only are the free movement rights granted by the Treaty protected, but that more broadly, the fundamental rights of EU citizens are not infringed. The Tampere programme was a five-year agenda that concluded in 2004. In June 2004, the Commission presented a Communication taking stock of the implementation of the Tampere agenda and setting future guidelines for a new justice and home affairs strategy for the years to come. Following Council discussions in July and October 2004, the Dutch Presidency produced a new programme for justice and home affairs (subsequently renamed as ‘freedom, security and justice’). This will cover the period for the years 2005–2010, and is known as ‘The Hague Programme: Ten priorities for the next five years— The Partnership for European Renewal in the field of Freedom, Security and Justice.’1
II. Eu Citizenship
Authors: McMahon Joe , Cygan Adam , Szyszczak Erika
Published: November 2006

The Court has continued with its expansive interpretation of the Citizenship provisions in Article 18 EC which it had previously acknowledged as being a fundamental right granted to all EU citizens by the Treaty.1 The case-law of the Court has, in particular, stressed the relationship between the free movement rights under Article 18 EC and preventing discrimination against EU nationals on grounds of nationality and without which the Citizenship provisions would lack force. Two recent judgments of Bidar2 and Ioannidis3 demonstrate the extent to which the Court will prevent covert discrimination on grounds of nationality. In a third judgment, that of Schempp,4 the Court, seemingly sensitive to criticism of interfering in domestic tax policy, adopts a more measured interpretation of discrimination when considering whether the rights granted under Article 18 EC are interfered with.
Accurate and reliable high-throughput detection of copy number variation in the human genome
Authors: Fiegler Heike , Redon Richard , Andrews Dan , Scott Carol , Andrews Robert , Carder Carol , Clark Richard , Dovey Oliver , Ellis Peter , Feuk Lars , French Lisa , Hunt Paul , Kalaitzopoulos Dimitrios , Larkin James , Montgomery Lyndal , Perry George H. , Plumb Bob W. , Porter Keith , Rigby Rachel E. , Rigler Diane , Valsesia Armand , Langford Cordelia , Humphray Sean J. , Scherer Stephen W. , Lee Charles , Hurles Matthew E. , Carter Nigel P.
Published: November 2006

This study describes a new tool for accurate and reliable high-throughput detection of copy number variation in the human genome. We have constructed a large-insert clone DNA microarray covering the entire human genome in tiling path resolution that we have used to identify copy number variation in human populations. Crucial to this study has been the development of a robust array platform and analytic process for the automated identification of copy number variants (CNVs). The array consists of 26,574 clones covering 93.7% of euchromatic regions. Clones were selected primarily from the published “Golden Path,” and mapping was confirmed by fingerprinting and BAC-end sequencing. Array performance was extensively tested by a series of validation assays. These included determining the hybridization characteristics of each individual clone on the array by chromosome-specific add-in experiments. Estimation of data reproducibility and false-positive/negative rates was carried out using self–self hybridizations, replicate experiments, and independent validations of CNVs. Based on these studies, we developed a variance-based automatic copy number detection analysis process (CNVfinder) and have demonstrated its robustness by comparison with the SW-ARRAY method.
BPPred: A Web‐based computational tool for predicting biophysical parameters of proteins
Authors: Geierhaas Christian D. , Nickson Adrian A. , Lindorff‐Larsen Kresten , Clarke Jane , Vendruscolo Michele
Published: November 2006

We exploit the availability of recent experimental data on a variety of proteins to develop a Web‐based prediction algorithm (BPPred) to calculate several biophysical parameters commonly used to describe the folding process. These parameters include the equilibrium m‐values, the length of proteins, and the changes upon unfolding in the solvent‐accessible surface area, in the heat capacity, and in the radius of gyration. We also show that the knowledge of any one of these quantities allows an estimate of the others to be obtained, and describe the confidence limits with which these estimations can be made. Furthermore, we discuss how the kinetic m‐values, or the Beta Tanford values, may provide an estimate of the solvent‐accessible surface area and the radius of gyration of the transition state for protein folding. Taken together, these results suggest that BPPred should represent a valuable tool for interpreting experimental measurements, as well as the results of molecular dynamics simulations.
Vaccinia virus N1L protein resembles a B cell lymphoma‐2 (Bcl‐2) family protein
Authors: Aoyagi Mika , Zhai Dayong , Jin Chaofang , Aleshin Alexander E. , Stec Boguslaw , Reed John C. , Liddington Robert C.
Published: November 2006

Poxviruses encode immuno‐modulatory proteins capable of subverting host defenses. The poxvirus vaccinia expresses a small 14‐kDa protein, N1L, that is critical for virulence. We report the crystal structure of N1L, which reveals an unexpected but striking resemblance to host apoptotic regulators of the B cell lymphoma‐2 (Bcl‐2) family. Although N1L lacks detectable Bcl‐2 homology (BH) motifs at the sequence level, we show that N1L binds with high affinity to the BH3 peptides of pro‐apoptotic Bcl‐2 family proteins in vitro, consistent with a role for N1L in modulating host antiviral defenses.
Efficient molecular docking of NMR structures: Application to HIV‐1 protease
Authors: Huang Sheng‐You , Zou Xiaoqin
Published: November 2006

Docking ligands into an ensemble of NMR conformers is essential to structure‐based drug discovery if only NMR structures are available for the target. However, sequentially docking ligands into each NMR conformer through standard single‐receptor‐structure docking, referred to as sequential docking, is computationally expensive for large‐scale database screening because of the large number of NMR conformers involved. Recently, we developed an efficient ensemble docking algorithm to consider protein structural variations in ligand binding. The algorithm simultaneously docks ligands into an ensemble of protein structures and achieves comparable performance to sequential docking without significant increase in computational time over single‐structure docking. Here, we applied this algorithm to docking with NMR structures. The HIV‐1 protease was used for validation in terms of docking accuracy and virtual screening. Ensemble docking of the NMR structures identified 91% of the known inhibitors under the criterion of RMSD < 2.0 Å for the best‐scored conformation, higher than the average success rate of single docking of individual crystal structures (66%). In the virtual screening test, on average, ensemble docking of the NMR structures obtained higher enrichments than single‐structure docking of the crystal structures. In contrast, docking of either the NMR minimized average structure or a single NMR conformer performed less satisfactorily on both binding mode prediction and virtual screening, indicating that a single NMR structure may not be suitable for docking calculations. The success of ensemble docking of the NMR structures suggests an efficient alternative method for standard single docking of crystal structures and for considering protein flexibility.
Solution structure of a small protein containing a fluorinated side chain in the core
Authors: Cornilescu Gabriel , Hadley Erik B. , Woll Matthew G. , Markley John L. , Gellman Samuel H. , Cornilescu Claudia C.
Published: November 2006

We report the first high‐resolution structure for a protein containing a fluorinated side chain. Recently we carried out a systematic evaluation of phenylalanine to pentafluorophenylalanine (Phe → F5‐Phe) mutants for the 35‐residue chicken villin headpiece subdomain (c‐VHP), the hydrophobic core of which features a cluster of three Phe side chains (residues 6, 10, and 17). Phe → F5‐Phe mutations are interesting because aryl–perfluoroaryl interactions of optimal geometry are intrinsically more favorable than either aryl–aryl or perfluoroaryl–perfluoroaryl interactions, and because perfluoroaryl units are more hydrophobic than are analogous aryl units. Only one mutation, Phe10 → F5‐Phe, was found to provide enhanced tertiary structural stability relative to the native core (by ∼1 kcal/mol, according to guanidinium chloride denaturation studies). The NMR structure of this mutant, described here, reveals very little variation in backbone conformation or side chain packing relative to the wild type. Thus, although Phe → F5‐Phe mutations offer the possibility of greater tertiary structural stability from side chain–side chain attraction and/or side chain desolvation, the constraints associated with the native c‐VHP fold apparently prevent the modified polypeptide from taking advantage of this possibility. Our findings are important because they complement several studies that have shown that fluorination of saturated side chain carbon atoms can provide enhanced conformational stability.
Analyses of the secretomes of Erwinia amylovora and selected hrp mutants reveal novel type III secreted proteins and an effect of HrpJ on extracellular harpin levels
Authors: NISSINEN RIITTA M. , YTTERBERG A. JIMMY , BOGDANOVE ADAM J. , VAN WIJK KLAAS J. , BEER STEVEN V.
Published: November 2006

Erwinia amylovora is a plant pathogenic enterobacterium that causes fire blight disease of apple, pear and other rosaceous plants. A type III (T3) secretion system, encoded by clustered, chromosomal hrp genes (hypersensitive response and pathogenicity), is essential for infection, but only a few proteins are known that are secreted through this pathway (the T3 ‘secretome’). We developed an efficient protocol for purification and concentration of extracellular proteins and used it to characterize the T3 secretome of E. amylovora Ea273 by comparing preparations from the wild‐type strain with those from mutants defective in hrp secretion, regulation, or in genes encoding putative T3‐secreted proteins. Proteins were resolved by gel electrophoresis and identified using mass spectrometry and a draft sequence of the E. amylovora genome. Twelve T3‐secreted proteins were identified, including homologues of known effector and helper proteins, and HrpJ, a homologue of YopN of Yersinia pestis. Several previously uncharacterized T3‐secreted proteins were designated as Eops for Erwinia outer proteins. Analysis of the secretome of a non‐polar hrpJ mutant demonstrated that HrpJ is required for accumulation of wild‐type levels of secreted harpins. HrpJ was found to be essential for pathogenesis, and to play a major role in elicitation of the hypersensitive reaction in tobacco.
Semi‐natural grasslands as population sources for pollinating insects in agricultural landscapes
Authors: ÖCKINGER ERIK , SMITH HENRIK G.
Published: November 2006

In intensively farmed agricultural landscapes, many species are confined to very small uncultivated areas such as field margins. However, it has been suggested that these small habitat elements cannot support viable populations of all the species observed there. Instead, species richness and abundance in these small habitat fragments may, at least partly, be dependent on dispersal from larger semi‐natural grassland fragments.

We tested this hypothesis for butterflies and bumble bees in 12 independent landscapes in a region of intense agriculture in southern Sweden. In each landscape we surveyed abundance and species richness in one semi‐natural grassland, one linear habitat (uncultivated field margin) adjacent to this (called proximate) and one similar linear habitat (called distant) situated at least 1000 m from the semi‐natural grassland patch.

Both species richness and density (individuals per unit area) of butterflies and bumble bees were significantly higher in proximate linear habitats than in distant ones. Moreover, butterfly species richness was higher for a given area in grasslands than in any of the linear habitat types. Butterfly density in grasslands did not differ from that in proximate linear habitats but was lower in distant linear habitats. The effect of isolation on density was stronger for less mobile butterfly species. For bumble bees there was no difference in species richness between grasslands and proximate linear habitats.

For at least some of the butterfly species even these relatively small fragments of semi‐natural grasslands act as population sources from which individuals disperse to the surrounding habitats and thereby contribute to higher densities and species richness in adjacent areas. For bumble bees, it is more likely that the grasslands contain a higher density of nests than the surrounding intensively cultivated landscape, and that the density of foraging bumble bees decreases with increasing distance from the nest.

Synthesis and application.Habitat fragmentation and intensified agricultural practices are considered to be a threat against services provided by pollinators. In order to sustain the abundance and diversity of insect pollinators in intensively farmed agricultural landscapes, we suggest that preservation of the remaining semi‐natural grasslands or re‐creation of flower‐rich grasslands is essential.
Oral health‐related quality of life and severe hypodontia
Authors: WONG A. T. Y. , MCMILLAN A. S. , MCGRATH C.
Published: November 2006

summary  The aims of the study were to assess oral health‐related quality of life (ohqol) impact among patients with severe hypodontia and to determine the association between ohqol and the number of missing teeth. Twenty‐five patients with severe hypodontia (four or more missing permanent teeth) self‐completed the child perception questionnaire (CPQ) to assess oral symptoms (OS), functional limitation (FL), emotional well‐being (EWB) and social well‐being (SWB). Correlation between CPQ scores (overall and at domain level) and the number of missing teeth was assessed. All participants reported ohqol impact, 100% reported experiencing OS, 88% FL, 55% EWB and 100% SWB impacts. The correlation between the number of missing permanent teeth and the CPQ scores was moderate: overall CPQ score (r = 0·54), OS (r = 0·41), FL (0·52), EWB (0·52), SWB (0·49), P < 0·05. Having accounted for retained primary teeth (where a retained primary tooth was considered to have compensated for a missing permanent tooth), the correlation between the number of missing teeth and CPQ scores was strong: overall CPQ score (r = 0·94), OS (r = 0·78), FL (0·88), EWB (0·92), SWB (0·70), P < 0·001. Subjects with severe hypodontia report considerable ohqol impact. The number of missing permanent teeth was moderately correlated with ohqol. However, when retained primary teeth were taken into account, the number of missing teeth was highly correlated with ohqol. This study has implications in understanding the impact of hypodontia on quality of life and highlights the importance of retaining primary teeth in children and adolescents with severe hypodontia.
Biological responses of anodized titanium implants under different current voltages
Authors: CHOI J. W. , HEO S. J. , KOAK J. Y. , KIM S. K. , LIM Y. J. , KIM S. H. , LEE J. B.
Published: November 2006

summary  The oxide layer of a titanium surface is very stable, and seems to result in excellent biocompatibility and successful osseointegration. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of high anodic oxidation voltages on the surface characteristics of titanium implants and the biologic response of rabbit tibiae. Bone tissue responses were evaluated by removal torque tests and histomorphometric analysis. Screw‐shaped implants with microthreads were made of commercially pure titanium (Grade II). We prepared anodized implants under 300 V (group I), 400 V (group II), 500 V (group III) and 550 V (group IV). The surface characteristics of specimens were inspected according to three categories: surface morphology, surface roughness and oxide layer thickness. The screw‐shaped implants were installed in rabbit tibiae. The removal torque values were measured and histomorphometric analysis was done after 1‐ and 3‐month healing periods. Data indicate that as anodic oxidation voltage increased above 300 V, oxide layer thickness increased rapidly and pore size also increased. The roughness values of the implants increased with voltage up to 500 V, but decreased at 550 V. In the removal torque test, group III showed higher values than groups I and II at a statistically significant level (P < 0·05) after a 1‐month healing period. In histomorphometric analysis, groups III and IV, after a 3‐month healing period, showed greater bone to implant contact ratios for the total implant surface than did group I (P < 0·05).
Tooth displacement due to occlusal contacts: a three‐dimensional finite element study
Authors: GOMES DE OLIVEIRA S. , SERAIDARIAN P. I. , LANDRE J. , OLIVEIRA D. D. , CAVALCANTI B. N.
Published: November 2006

summary  The use of the Finite Element Method (FE) is an appropriate way to study occlusal forces and tooth movement. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of different occlusal contact patterns on tooth displacement in an adult dentition using a three‐dimensional FE model of a human maxilla and mandible. Initially, images of a computerized tomography scan were redrawn in a computer program (CATIA) followed by the FE mesh construction. The MSC/Patran software was used to develop the FE mesh comprising 520 445 elements and 106 633 nodes. The MSC/Nastran program was utilized as pre and post‐processor for all mathematical calculations necessary to evaluate dental and mandibular biomechanics. Four occlusal patterns were tested: FEM 1 – standard occlusal contacts; FEM 2 – removal of mesial marginal and mesial tripoidism contacts; FEM 3 – removal of distal marginal and distal tripoidism contacts; FEM 4 – similar to FEM 3 with added contacts between upper and lower incisors. Small changes in the standard distribution of occlusal contacts resulted in an imbalance of occlusal forces and changes in dental positioning. All simulations tested showed mesial displacement of posterior teeth. The most significant changes were registered in the model presenting unstable occlusal contacts when the anterior teeth were in occlusion (FEM 4). These findings may explain mandibular incisors crowding and maxillary incisors flaring as a result of small variations in dental contacts.
Assessment of correlation between computerized tomography values of the bone, and maximum torque and resonance frequency values at dental implant placement
Authors: TURKYILMAZ I. , TÖZÜM T. F. , TUMER C. , OZBEK E. N.
Published: November 2006

summary  The aim of this study was to determine the bone density in the designated implant sites using computerized tomography (CT), the fastening torque values of dental implants, and the implant stability values using resonance frequency analysis. Further aim was to evaluate a possible correlation between bone density, fastening torque and implant stability. Eighty‐five patients were treated with 158 Brånemark System implants. CT machine was used for preoperative evaluation of the jawbone for each patient, and bone densities were recorded in Hounsfield units (HU). The fastening torque values of all implants were recorded with the OsseoCare equipment. Implant stability measurements were performed with the Osstell machine. The average bone density and fastening torque values were 751·4 ± 256 HU and 39·7 ± 7 Ncm for 158 implants. The average primary implant stability was 73·2 ± 6 ISQ for seventy implants. Strong correlations were observed between the bone density, fastening torque and implant stability values of Brånemark System TiUnite MKIII implants at implant placement (P < 0·001). These results strengthen the hypothesis that it may be possible to predict and quantify initial implant stability and bone quality from pre‐surgical CT diagnosis.
Revisiting amorphous organic matter in Kimmeridgian laminites: what is the role of the vulcanization process in the amorphization of organic matter?
Authors: Pacton M. , Fiet N. , Gorin G.
Published: November 2006

Kimmeridgian bituminous laminites from Orbagnoux (France) contain abundant amorphous organic matter (AOM). Previous studies have shown that the vulcanization pathway was the dominant preservation mechanism of AOM in these laminites, and led to its structureless aspect (a process called amorphization) at the nanoscale. In contrast, new observations in scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy demonstrate that this AOM exhibits typical cyanobacterial structures (exopolymeric substances, filamentous and coccoid bacteria) and ultralaminae. This identification is supported by a comparison with a recent cyanobacterial biofilm considered as an analogue. Moreover, this comparison demonstrates that ultralaminae in the Orbagnoux environment cannot solely be attributed to microalgal cell walls, but also to constituents of cyanobacteria. The microscopic identification of a ubiquitous cyanobacterial imprint demonstrates that the selective preservation pathway has been largely underestimated in Orbagnoux AOM and/or that the vulcanization process does not lead to the amorphization of organic matter automatically.
The structure of Jebel El Mourra, Tunisia: a diapiric structure causing a positive gravity anomaly
Authors: Benassi Ramdhane , Jallouli Chokri , Hammami Mongi , Turki Mohamed Moncef
Published: November 2006

Detailed gravity data integrated with geological data and mining well data are analysed to constrain the shape of the Triassic evaporitic body at Jebel El Mourra (northern Tunisian Atlas) and the mechanism of its emplacement at the surface. The gravity data analysis included the construction of a gravity anomaly maps, and synthetic and forward 2.5D gravity models. The complete Bouguer and residual gravity anomaly maps indicate a positive amplitude gravity anomaly over the Triassic evaporitic outcrops and prominent NE–SW‐trending features associated with the boundary of the Triassic rocks and surrounded layers. A NW–SE‐trending gravity model that crosses the Triassic evaporitic outcrop at Jebel El Mourra shows that the positive gravity anomaly can be explained by a deep‐rooted salt diapir. Conventional models of salt dome formation suggest that they produce negative gravity anomalies; however, this study shows that this model is not universal. The studied area is an example of a diapir expressed by positive gravity anomaly and this result is supported by synthetic gravity models at different stages of salt piercing.
How and to what extent does the emergence of orogens above sea level influence their tectonic development?
Authors: Simpson Guy D. H.
Published: November 2006

Geodynamic modelling indicates that the emergence of initially submarine convergent orogens above sea level can have a significant influence on their subsequent tectonic development. This is because of two effects. First, surface uplift under submarine conditions, and the resulting decrease in gravitational loads, tends to reactivate deformation in the uplifting part of the submerged orogen. Second, an increase in the rate of erosion associated with the emergence of land can cause increased exhumation rates, reduced thrust‐front advance rates, narrowing of the orogen width, and a shift from slow deposition in piggyback basins to rapid deposition in the foredeep. These effects result from the ability of erosion to perturb mass balance at the orogen‐scale. Based on these results, I hypothesize that the emergence of initially submerged orogens such as the Alps and Taiwan played a direct role in explaining major changes in orogen dynamics and basin evolution that are known to occur in these examples.
Effects of Grazing on Bituminaria bituminosa (L) Stirton: A Potential Forage Crop in Mediterranean Grasslands
Authors: Sternberg M. , Gishri N. , Mabjeesh S. J.
Published: November 2006

Plant traits of Bituminaria bituminosa, as affected by different intensities of cattle grazing, were studied in a Mediterranean grassland in Israel. B. bituminosa is a widespread Mediterranean perennial legume species that may potentially serve as a fodder crop in Mediterranean grasslands. The aims of the present study were: (i) to evaluate the responses of B. bituminosa to different cattle grazing intensities; (ii) to study functional traits associated with grazing tolerance; and (iii) to evaluate its potential as an alternative forage crop in the region. A total of 100 B. bituminosa plants were monitored in field conditions. During the growing season each individual was sampled five times and the following plant traits were monitored each time: (i) aboveground biomass production, (ii) plant height, (iii) specific leaf area (SLA), (iv) number of flowers, (v) seed mass and size, (vi) tannin concentration in leaves, (vii) total nitrogen in leaves, (viii) fibre concentration in leaves (Neutral Detergent Fiber), and (ix) in vitro dry matter digestibility. The results showed that grazing intensity and history of grazing affected B. bituminosa performance. Plant biomass, height, and flower and seed production were all reduced when plants were exposed to cattle grazing. However, under moderate grazing intensities, its plant cover remained relatively stable indicating a potential tolerance under this stocking rate. The nutritious characteristics of B. bituminosa leaves were good, and the condensed tannins concentration found indicated favourable conditions for digestion. Moreover, the in vitro digestibility studies indicated relatively high values (46–51 %) of digestion. B. bituminosa may be considered as a potential crop for cattle feeding in Mediterranean grasslands. Growing this plant in dense stands in rotational paddocks may provide alternative sources of natural fodder protein, reducing the potential costs of artificial feed supplements.
Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium, Magnesium and Calcium Removal by Brown Midrib Sorghum Sudangrass in the Northeastern USA
Authors: Ketterings Q. M. , Godwin G. , Kilcer T. F. , Barney P. , Hunter M. , Cherney J. H. , Beer S.
Published: November 2006

For the long‐term sustainability of the dairy industry in the Northeastern USA, manure nutrient application rates should not exceed crop nutrient removal once above‐optimum soil fertility levels are reached. Dairy producers have shown a growing interest in brown midrib (BMR) forage sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench.) × sudangrass (Sorghum sudanense Piper) hybrids (S × S) as a more environmentally sound alternative to maize (Zea mays L.) but data on S × S nutrient removal rates are scant. Our objectives were to determine N, P, K, Ca and Mg removal with harvest as impacted by N application rate, using six N rate studies in New York. One of the six sites had a recent manure history. Although site‐to‐site differences existed, N application tended to decrease P and K and increase N, Ca and Mg concentrations in BMR S × S forage. Nutrient removal and yield were highly correlated for all sites except one location that showed a K deficiency. The crop removed large amounts of P and K in the manured site, suggesting that BMR S × S is an excellent scavenger of these nutrients. If manure is applied mid‐season, forage K levels are likely too high for feeding to non‐lactating cows.
Effect of Deep Placement of Slow‐release Fertilizer (Lime Nitrogen) Applied at Different Rates on Growth, N2 Fixation and Yield of Soya Bean (Glycine max [L.] Merr.)
Authors: Kaushal T. , Onda M. , Ito S. , Yamazaki A. , Fujikake H. , Ohtake N. , Sueyoshi K. , Takahashi Y. , Ohyama T.
Published: November 2006

A new fertilization method with deep placement of slow‐release N fertilizers, such as coated urea and lime nitrogen (LN) (calcium cyanamide) at 20 cm depth was found to promote soy bean seed yield. In the present study, the effect of deep placement of LN was investigated on different parameters such as growth, N accumulation, N2 fixation activity and yield of soy bean by applying LN at different rates in the rotated paddy field of Niigata, Japan. In addition to the basal fertilizer, ammonium sulphate (16 kg N ha−1), deep placement of LN was conducted by applying various amounts such as 50 kg N ha−1 (A50), 100 kg N ha−1 (A100) and 200 kg N ha−1 (A200) at 20 cm depth in separate plots. A 15N‐labelled LN fertilizer was also employed for each of the above treatments to calculate N utilization from LN in separate plots. Soya bean plant growth and N2 fixation activity were periodically analysed. Both plant growth and N accumulation were found to increase with LN treatment compared with control plants. An increase in N2 fixation activity was found in the A100 plots. The total seed yield was the highest in the deep placement of LN with A100 (73 g per plant) compared with other treatments. The visual quality of harvested seeds also showed that A100 enhanced the quality of seeds compared with other treatments. Thus, it is suggested that N fertilization management with particular reference to optimum amount of fertilizers is important for maximum growth, N2 fixation and enhancement of seed yield of soy bean.
Using Hemispherical Radiation Measurements to Predict Weight‐Related Growth Traits in Oilseed Rape (Brassica napus L.) and Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) Canopies
Authors: Behrens T. , Diepenbrock W.
Published: November 2006

Methods for determining growth traits in the field are mostly work‐intensive and/or often erroneous. Further development of multi‐temporal techniques of growth analyses provided by fast and non‐destructive tools for monitoring canopy properties may result in a substantial gain for practical use. Among them, the LAI‐2000 Canopy Analyzer can be used to determine the canopy area index (CAI) resulting from radiation measurements. In plant breeding, single‐date measurements were usually made across a wide number of genoptypes. In contrast, multi‐temporal information on canopy status is needed in agronomy. In our study, data of the CAI based on hemispherical radiation measurements with the LAI‐2000 were used to estimate developmental courses of weight‐related growth traits. For this purpose, seasonal courses of shoot fresh matter, shoot dry matter, shoot N and water content and CAI of winter oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.) and spring barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) were investigated simultaneously in field experiments from 2002 to 2006 in northern Germany with and without nitrogen (N) fertilization. Courses of 2003 and 2004 were used to calculate relationships between CAI and growth traits. Results show that each of the weight‐related growth trait is related to the CAI. In this mechanistic approach relationships were found gathered across 2 years, two N‐treatments and several growth stages being unaffected by N‐fertilization, cultivar and experimental year. These relationships were verified using independent data sets of the years 2005 (winter oilseed rape and spring barley) and 2006 (winter oilseed rape). The results of the current study show that the use of LAI‐2000 and its rapid and non‐destructive determination of weight‐related growth traits over the entire growth period will substantially improve the determination of weight‐related growth traits in agriculture.
Effect of Weather and Soil Conditions on Yield Components and Bread‐Making Quality of Winter Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and Winter Triticale (Triticosecale Wittm.) Varieties in North‐East Germany
Authors: Erekul O. , Köhn W.
Published: November 2006

The reduced nutrient and water availability of the sorption‐weak silty sand soil in Thyrow when compared with the loamy sand soil in Berge enhanced the negative effects of unfavourable weather conditions. Winter wheat reacted to weather conditions and soil quality substantially more sensitively than winter triticale, so that the cultivation of wheat on very light sandy soil is combined with a higher risk. Reduced yields resulting from site differences are, for both cereals, mainly a result of reduced ear densities. Low grain yields as in the dry year 2003 led to high crude protein contents, this being more pronounced for winter wheat than for triticale and on the poor silty sand soil in Thyrow to a greater degree than on the loamy sand soil in Berge. For the starch content the contrary holds true. Grain yields were, to a greater extent, decisive for the protein and starch yields than the content values. For both cereals, the sedimentation value, the wet gluten value, the gluten index and the falling number resulted in principally higher values in the dry year 2003 and on the loamy sand soil when compared with the wet year 2004 and the silty sand soil. Only the wet gluten content was not clearly influenced by soil quality. All parameters describing bread‐making quality are clearly lower for winter triticale than for winter wheat. Especially, the falling number was not satisfactory, so that the tested triticale varieties seem only to be suitable for bread‐making by mixing with wheat flour. The internal grain quality of winter wheat varieties is extensively genetically determined. Weather and soil‐induced variations in the quality parameters were, with only few exceptions, greater for winter wheat than for triticale.
Significance of matrix metalloproteinases in the pathophysiology of the ovary and uterus
Authors: ENDO TOSHIAKI , KIYA TAMOTSU , GOTO TAEKO , HENMI HIROFUMI , MANASE KENGO , HONNMA HIROYUKI , BABA TSUYOSHI , ISHIOKA SHINICHI , HAYASHI TAKUHIRO , CHIDA MANABU , ARIMA KAZUYO , YAMAZAKI KIYOHIRO , KANAYA MIKA , AZUMAGUCHI ATSUSHI , MORIWAKA OSAMU , KAMIYA HIROFUMI , SAITO TSUYOSHI
Published: November 2006

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) are capable of degrading a variety of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins and are also involved in the processing of a number of bioactive molecules. Our findings indicate that the functions of MMP in the ovary and uterus are organ‐specific and time‐dependently vary during the reproductive cycle. Prolactin induces structural luteolysis indicated by loss of luteal weight, protein and DNA within 36 h after pretreatment with ergot alkaloid. MMP activation appears crucial for the selective depletion of protein during luteal involution, which entails loss of ECM accompanied by apoptosis. During GnRHagonist‐induced luteolysis, this response was also associated with marked increases in MMP‐2, which degraded collagen type IV, and MT1‐MMP, which in addition to activating MMP‐2 also degrades collagen type I, III and V. We also found that the level of MT1‐MMP and MMP‐2 expression in the human CL is greater during the late luteal phase than during either the early mid luteal phases or during gestation, respectively. That dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) treatment caused the formation of cysts from antral follicles in the ovaries of immature rats while depressing MMP‐2 collagenolytic activity and enhancing lysyl oxidase expression highlights the importance of collagen degradation in the process of ovulation and suggests that changes in the activities of these enzymes play a key role in ovarian cystogenesis in polycystic ovary syndrome patients. Furthermore, immunohistochemical analyses showed that MT1‐MMP and FasL co‐localize with TdT‐mediated dUTP‐biotin nick end‐labeling (TUNEL)‐positive apoptotic granulosa cells in rats treated with DHEA, that the Fas/FasL/Caspase‐8 (death receptor‐dependent) pathway is pivotal for follicular atresia and that increased levels of MT1‐MMP likely play an important role in tissue remodeling during follicular atresia. After parturition, the uterus undergoes involution, a conspicuous feature characterized by a rapid reduction in the collagen content mediated by degradation of extracellular collagen bundles. Our findings strongly suggest that MT1‐MMP, MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 are each time‐dependently regulated and play important roles in tissue remodeling during postpartum uterine involution. (Reprod Med Biol 2006; 5: 235–243)
The improvement in fertilizing ability of cryopreserved mouse spermatozoa using laser‐microdissected oocytes
Authors: KANEKO TAKEHITO , YANAGI MIHO , NAKASHIMA TATSUYUKI , NAKAGATA NAOMI
Published: November 2006

Aim:  The C57BL/6 mouse strain is now commonly used for producing transgenic/knockout strains. However, the fertilizing ability of these spermatozoa decreases as a result of cryopreservaion. Although the micromanipulation technique has been established to increase their fertilizing ability, it requires a considerable degree of technical skill. In the present report, we investigate the simple microdissection of zona pellucida by laser to increase the fertilizing ability of cryopreserved spermatozoa.

Methods:  C57BL/6J spermatozoa were cryopreserved using a solution consisting of 18% raffinose/3% skim milk. Oocytes of the same strain were placed in PB1 medium containing 0, 0.25, 0.50 or 0.75 mol sucrose. The zona pellucida of oocytes was microdissected by laser with different pulse lengths selected from 0.45 to 0.65 ms. Microdissected oocytes were then fertilized with cryopreserved spermatozoa, and the subsequent development of embryos was assessed.

Results:  When oocytes were microdissected in PB1 medium without sucrose, 81.5% of the oocytes were fertilized. The fertilization rates increased significantly as the pulse length was lengthened when compared with oocytes with intact zona pellucida. Furthermore, normal offspring were obtained in all experiments.

Conclusion:  The fertilizing ability of cryopreserved spermatozoa is improved when oocytes with their zona pellucida microdissected by laser were used. (Reprod Med Biol 2006; 5: 249–253)
Effect of fructose on motility, acrosome reaction and in vitro fertilization capability of boar spermatozoa
Authors: TSUJII HIROTADA , OHTA EMI , MIAH ABDUL GAFFAR , HOSSAIN SHAROARE , SALMA UMMAY
Published: November 2006

Aim:  The present study was carried out to investigate the effects of fructose supplementation in glucose containing mTALP medium on motility, acrosome reaction and in vitro fertilization capability of boar spermatozoa.

Methods:  Boar spermatozoa were preincubated, swum‐up, resuspended and then incubated for 6 h in mTALP medium supplemented with 0, 0.5, or 1.0 mmol fructose in the presence of 5.0 mmol glucose. After completion of the specified incubation period, motility was determined subjectively on the basis of speed of progression and on the type of forward movement of spermatozoa; acrosome status was evaluated by applying a triple staining technique; and in vitro fertilization capability was assessed by acetic–orcein staining.

Results:  The combination of fructose and glucose (0.5 + 5.0 mmol) supplements in mTALP medium improved sperm motility significantly (P < 0.05), more than glucose alone (5.0 mmol) at 2–6 h of incubation. Acrosome reaction (live spermatozoa) and the sperm penetration rate was increased significantly (P < 0.05) when the spermatozoa were treated with the combination of fructose and glucose compared with glucose alone, but the incidence of polyspermy was not significantly different between the treatments.

Conclusion:  These results suggest that the combination of glucose and fructose as supplements in mTALP medium improve the progressive motility, acrosome reaction and fertilization capability of boar spermatozoa. (Reprod Med Biol 2006; 5: 255–261)
Effects of orchids (Orchis anatolica) on reproductive function and fertility in adult male mice
Authors: KHOURI NABIL A. , NAWASREH MANSOUR , AL‐HUSSAIN SALEH M. , ALKOFAHI AHMAD S.
Published: November 2006

Aims: The aim of the present study was to determine the effect of orchid bulbs on the reproductive system of male albino mice.

Methods: Orchid bulb extract was fed to 20 male albino mice (5 g/mouse/day) for 35 days and compared with a similar number of mice as controls. Total testicular germ cell population, histometrical parameters, serum blood biochemistry and hormonal assay were determined.

Results: The ingestion of orchid bulb by mice induced a significant increase in the following parameters: (i) testes and seminal vesicle weights; (ii) number of different testicular germ cell population including interstitial Leydig cells and fibroblasts; and (iii) testicular cell linage dynamics obtained from testes and cauda epidydimides. An important finding was that the ingestion of the orchid diet by male mice increased their fertility. This was indicated by an elevation in the number of impregnated females when allowed to mate with treated mice, an increase in the impregnation sites, and an increase in the number of viable fetuses and the offspring's male/female ratio. A slight significant increase in the testosterone and follicular stimulating hormone titers in the treated mice were found in their blood serum. In contrast, a decrease in the number of degenerating cells was observed.

Conclusions: Orchid bulb treatment might play an important role in improving male reproductive potential and fertility. (Reprod Med Biol 2006;5: 269–276)