bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional Analysis of Picornavirus 2B Proteins: Effects on Calcium Homeostasis and Intracellular Protein Trafficking
Authors: de Jong Arjan S. , de Mattia Fabrizio , Van Dommelen Michiel M. , Lanke Kjerstin , Melchers Willem J. G. , Willems Peter H. G. M. , van Kuppeveld Frank J. M.
Published: January 2008

The family
Picornaviridae
consists of a large group of plus-strand RNA viruses that share a similar genome organization. The nomenclature of the picornavirus proteins is based on their position in the viral RNA genome but does not necessarily imply a conserved function of proteins of different genera. The enterovirus 2B protein is a small hydrophobic protein that, upon individual expression, is localized to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and the Golgi complex, reduces ER and Golgi complex Ca
2+
levels, most likely by forming transmembrane pores, and inhibits protein trafficking through the Golgi complex. At present, little is known about the function of the other picornavirus 2B proteins. Here we show that rhinovirus 2B, which is phylogenetically closely related to enterovirus 2B, shows a similar subcellular localization and function to those of enterovirus 2B. In contrast, 2B proteins of hepatitis A virus, foot-and-mouth disease virus, and encephalomyocarditis virus, all of which are more distantly related to enteroviruses, show a different localization and have little, if any, effects on Ca
2+
homeostasis and intracellular protein trafficking. Our data suggest that the 2B proteins of enterovirus and rhinovirus share the same function in virus replication, while the other picornavirus 2B proteins support the viral life cycle in a different manner. Moreover, we show that an enterovirus 2B protein that is retained in the ER is unable to modify Ca
2+
homeostasis and inhibit protein trafficking, demonstrating the importance of Golgi complex localization for its functioning.
IRF-3 Activation by Sendai Virus Infection Is Required for Cellular Apoptosis and Avoidance of Persistence
Authors: Peters Kristi , Chattopadhyay Saurabh , Sen Ganes C.
Published: January 2008

Here, we report that specific manipulations of the cellular response to virus infection can cause prevention of apoptosis and consequent establishment of persistent infection. Infection of several human cell lines with Sendai virus (SeV) or human parainfluenza virus 3, two prototypic paramyxoviruses, caused slow apoptosis, which was markedly accelerated upon blocking the action of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinases (PI3 kinases) in the infected cells. The observed apoptosis required viral gene expression and the action of the caspase 8 pathway. Although virus infection activated PI3 kinase, as indicated by AKT activation, its blockage did not inhibit JNK activation or IRF-3 activation. The action of neither the Jak-STAT pathway nor the NF-κB pathway was required for apoptosis. In contrast, IRF-3 activation was essential, although induction of the proapototic protein TRAIL by IRF-3 was not required. When IRF-3 was absent or its activation by the RIG-I pathway was blocked, SeV established persistent infection, as documented by viral protein production and infectious virus production. Introduction of IRF-3 in the persistently infected cells restored the cells' ability to undergo apoptosis. These results demonstrated that in our model system, IRF-3 controlled the fate of the SeV-infected cells by promoting apoptosis and preventing persistence.
Macropolyhedral Boron-Containing Cluster Chemistry. Intermolecular Coordination via Hydrogen-Metal Interaction. The Solvent-Free Synthesis and Dimeric Constitution of [Pd2B36H40(PMe2Ph)4]
Authors: Londesborough Michael G. S. , Kilner Colin A. , Kennedy John D.
Published: January 2008

[Pd2B36H40(PMe2Ph)4], from the solvent-free thermolysis of [(PMe2Ph)2PdB8H12] with B10H14, has a unique dimeric structure in which two novel {PdB18H20(PMe2Ph)2} nineteen-vertex arachno-palladadecaborano-〈PdB〉-nido-palladaundecaborane units are held together by reciprocal hydrogen-to-metal linkages.
Synthesis of Alkoxy Derivatives of Decahydro-closo-decaborate Anion
Authors: Prikaznov Alexander V. , Bragin Vikentii I. , Davydova Margarita N. , Sivaev Igor B. , Bregadze Vladimir I.
Published: January 2008

Synthesis of alkoxy derivatives of closo-decaborate anion [1- and 2-B10H9OR]2- by reaction of the hydroxy derivatives with corresponding alkyl bromides was described. A new method of synthesis of 2-hydroxy derivative of closo-decaborate anion [2-B10H9OH]2- was proposed.
Human conscious response to thermal input is adjusted to changes in mean body temperature
Authors: Flouris A D , Cheung S S
Published: January 2008

Objective and Design:

To detect the dependable criteria of behavioural thermoregulation through modelling temperature fluctuations of individuals allowed to freely manipulate inlet water temperature of a liquid conditioning garment (LCG) during 130 min of passive exposure to −20°C interspersed with a 10 min period of moderate exercise at the 65th minute using a double-blind experiment.

Participants:

Eleven volunteers (5 women; 23.40 (SD 2.09) years; BMI: 23.24 (SD 2.19)) who lacked previous experience with LCG and cold exposure experiments.

Results:

Despite variations in core and skin temperatures, thermal comfort, thermal sensation, and mean body temperature did not fluctuate significantly over time. Participants were able to find a desired level of LCG inlet temperature within 25 minutes which was maintained at similar levels until the 65th minute of the cold exposure. During exercise, LCG inlet water temperature decreased significantly. Regression models demonstrated that mean skin temperature and change in mean body temperature were significantly associated with thermal comfort and thermal sensation. Subsequent models revealed that, although all temperature variables were associated with LCG inlet water temperature, the coefficient of determination mainly depended on mean skin temperature and change in mean body temperature. The involvement of skin temperature was anticipated as the liquid conditioning garment was in contact with the skin.

Conclusions:

Humans generate conscious thermoregulatory responses in resting and exercise conditions during exposures to cold environments that are aimed towards maintaining a threshold mean body temperature, rather than temperature changes in individual body regions.
Tobacco control indicators and lung cancer rates in young adults by state in the United States
Authors: Polednak A P
Published: January 2008

Objective:

To determine the association between a tobacco control index (TCI) for 1992–93 for each US state and lung and bronchus cancer mortality and incidence rates by state for younger adults, as the best indicator of the effects of recent progress in tobacco control on lung cancer control.

Design:

For all 51 US areas (50 states and the District of Columbia), correlation coefficients between the state’s TCI and lung cancer rate were analysed. Multiple linear regression models (MLR) predicting cancer rates included sociodemographic variables by state (from the 2000 census). In addition, the 51 areas also were divided into tertiles, from highest to lowest TCI, and means for lung cancer rates were compared.

Subjects and settings:

All areas with available data on lung cancer mortality and incidence rates.

Main outcome measures:

Age-standardised mortality rates were available for all 51 areas (50 states and the District of Columbia) for 1989–93, 1994–98 and 1999–2003 for lung cancer at age 15–44 years. Lung cancer incidence rates for 1999–2002 were available for age 20–44 years for 44 states.

Results:

The correlation between the TCI and lung cancer mortality rate increased in magnitude from 1989–93 to 1999–2003, and the association was statistically significant in MLR models for 1994–98 and 1999–2003 (but not 1989–93). The TCI was statistically significantly correlated with the lung cancer incidence rate in 1999–2002 by state, and the association persisted in an MLR model.

Conclusions:

Within the limitations of ecologic analyses, findings are consistent with effects of state tobacco control efforts on reducing state-wide lung cancer rates in younger adults.
Markers of the denormalisation of smoking and the tobacco industry: Table 1
Authors: Chapman S , Freeman B
Published: January 2008

Background:

In nations with histories of declining smoking prevalence and comprehensive tobacco control policies, smoking-positive cultures have been severely eroded. Smoking, smokers and the tobacco industry are today routinely depicted in everyday discourse and media representations in a variety of overwhelmingly negative ways. Several authors have invoked Erving Goffman’s notions of stigmatisation to describe the process and impact of this radical transformation, which importantly includes motivating smoking cessation. Efforts to describe nations’ progress toward comprehensive tobacco control have hitherto taken little account of the role of cultural change to the meaning of smoking and the many ways in which it has become denormalised.

Methods:

This paper identifies a diversity of generally undocumented yet pervasive markers of the “spoiled identity” of smoking, smokers and the tobacco industry, illustrated with examples from Australia, a nation with advanced tobacco control.

Results:

We caution about some important negative consequences arising from the stigmatisation of smokers.

Conclusions:

We recommend that schemes rating the comprehensiveness of national tobacco control should be supplemented by documentation of markers of this denormalisation.
Evolution structurale et fonctionnelle de l'appareil photosynthétique des spores de Funaria hygrometrica et de Bryum capillare au cours de leur germination
Authors: Chevallier D. , Nurit F.
Published: January 2008

The mature spores of Funaria hygrometrica Hedw. contain proplasts that are transformed into chloroplasts in about 24 h, during germination on an inorganic medium in the light. The formation and aggregation of thylakoids are observed by electron microscopy. Studies on chlorophyll synthesis, CO2 fixation during germination, Hill's reaction (2,6-dichlorophenol–indophenol (DP1P)) by isolated chloroplasts, and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) signals suggest further correlations between plastid formation and functions.The results on Funaria spores are compared with results on Bryum spores. Mature Bryum capillare Hedw. spores contain chloroplasts that change only slightly during germination. The photosynthetic system of Funaria spores is compared with that of the chloroplasts of Bryum spores.
The appearance of eight strains of alfalfa mosaic virus in alfalfa leaves and their effect on the ultrastructure of infected cells
Authors: Wilcoxson Roy D. , Frosheiser F. I. , Johnson Lois B.
Published: January 2008

Eight strains of alfalfa mosaic virus (AMV) were studied by electron microscopy in alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) leaf tissue and after purification. The virus occurred in the cytoplasm and occasionally in the vacuoles of mesophyll and vascular parenchyma cells; it was not associated with cell organelles. One strain of AMV (U5) did not incite symptoms in the alfalfa leaves and caused no ultrastructural damage to the infected cells. Two strains (U10 and U21) caused no symptoms in alfalfa, but the tonoplast of infected cells was not closely attached to the cytoplasm and floated in the vacuole; cell organelles were not damaged. The other five strains of AMV (F1, NY1, R6, B1, and W1) regularly or occasionally produced symptoms in alfalfa leaves. In leaves that were symptomless, as well as in the apparently healthy parts of leaves with symptoms of AMV infection, there was no apparent ultrastructural damage to the infected cells. Within the part of a leaf where there were symptoms, the tonoplast was detached from the cytoplasma and was folded within the vacuole in various patterns, along with bits of cytoplasm and virus particles. Cell organelles were often found in various stages of disintegration. Three different aggregations of the virus were recognized. The eight AMV strains were grouped into three general classes on the basis of the range in virus particle sizes. Mycoplasm was not associated with any of the AMV strains.
Hydrogen ion transport in giant algal cells
Authors: Spanswick R. M.
Published: January 2008

A hypothesis for an electrogenic H+ pump in freshwater giant algal cells is presented and evaluated in terms of currently available evidence.
The developmental anatomy of Conopholis americana (Orobancaceae) seedlings and tubercles
Authors: Baird Wm. Vance , Riopel James L.
Published: January 2008

Germinated and attached seedlings of the phanerogamic parasite Conopholis americana (L.) Wallroth are described for the first time. The morphogenetic changes which characterize the transition from seedling to preflowering tubercle, as well as the anatomy of the mature tubercle, including endogenous floral buds, are also described. Conopholis seedlings were found attached only to mycorrhizal oak roots. The primary haustorium attached to and penetrated the fungal sheath, pushing aside epidermal and cortical cells of the host as it grew toward the host stele. Cells of the endophyte contacted host xylem and differentiated directly into reticulately thickened tracheary elements. Concomitantly a cambial are of parasite origin was established within the young tubercle, aligned with the vascular cambium of the host root. The cambium of the tubercle gave rise to xylem centripetally, which differentiated into tracheary elements juxtaposed to host secondary vessels, and cortical parenchyma centrifugally. Sieve elements could not be unequivocally demonstrated in seedlings or tubercles. Tissues and cell types of the parasite could be distinguished from those of the host by both morphological and histochemical criteria. The parasite to host transition zone was characterized by direct tracheary element connections and delimited by densely cytoplasmic parasite parenchyma cells that had greatly enlarged centrally located nuclei.
Modifications phyllotaxique et stélique provoquées par la suppression expérimentale d'un initium foliaire chez le très jeune sporophyte de Phyllitis scolopendrium
Authors: Vindt-Balguerie Emmeline
Published: January 2008

In the very young sporeling of Phyllitis scolopendrium (L.) Newman, the leaf initium situated at the upper extremity of one of the two helices was microsurgically destroyed. In 5 specimens out of 24 the shoot developed only one foliar helix. This is proven by the contiguous disposition of the successively formed leaves (original phyllotactic diagram) and by the observation of only one focus of morphogenetic activity in the initiating ring, thus supporting the concept of the existence of only one foliar generating centre. When the foliar initium is destroyed, the shoot stelar differentiation is also modified: the vascular system develops a protostele, then a siphonostele. As soon as the first new leaf appears after wounding, the normal solenostele is restored. [Translated by the Journal]
Structure and function of wall appositions. 2. Callose and the resistance of oversize papillae to penetration by Erysiphe graminis f. sp. hordei
Authors: Smart Michael G. , Aist James R. , Israel Herbert W.
Published: January 2008

Callose, a β-1,3- or β-1,3-1,4-glucan, is one of the most commonly reported constituents of papillae. Its putative roles include conferring resistance to fungal penetration by sequestering fungitoxic compounds or decreasing molecular communication between pathogen and suscept. Oversize papillae induced in partially dissected coleoptiles of barley are known to be resistant to penetration by a challenge inoculum of a compatible race of Erysiphe graminis D.C. f. sp. hordei Em. Marchal. When such coleoptiles were treated with laminarinase, predominantly a β-1,3-glucanase, callose was removed from the papillae as evidenced by the loss of aniline blue induced fluorescence. Upon subsequent challenge inoculation, there was no decrease in the resistance of the papillae: areas without papillae were penetrated at 43% of the 538 sites examined, whereas none of the 26 laminarinase-digested, oversize papillae was penetrated. Because the enzyme treatment removed not only callose but also autofluorescent materials, we conclude that these components were unnecessary for the resistance of oversize papillae. Some other component, not identified in this study, confers this resistance.
Investigations of the marine algae of Nova Scotia. XVI. The occurrence of small green algae
Authors: Nielsen R. , McLachlan J.
Published: January 2008

Collections were made from various sites in Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island for small green benthic marine algae, filamentous species associated with other plants, animals, wood, shells, or stones. Identifications were based on observations in situ and material isolated into culture. Twenty species, distributed in 14 genera, were identified; six are new records for eastern Canada and a seventh species is a new record for the Maritime provinces.
Subalpine meadow vegetation of south central Vancouver Island
Authors: Milko Robert J. , Bell M. A. M.
Published: January 2008

The subalpine meadow vegetation at three sites in the south central mountains of Vancouver Island was described. Based on dominance, six plant community types were delimited by ordination and classification. The community types are Phlox–moss, Anaphalis–Aster, Ribes–Heuchera, Pteridium aquilinum, Senecio–Veratrum, and Vaccinium–Carex. Although the two low-elevation sites were floristically similar, community definition was sharply delineated at Haley Lake but more continuous at Bell Creek. In contrast, the high-elevation Gemini Peak site was floristically and compositionally different and showed a more advanced stage of succession towards forest-dominated communities. Comparisons of the plant communities with those described for other subalpine regions of the Pacific Northwest indicated the strongest similarity to the vegetation of the Olympic Mountains, Washington.
The effect of salinity on growth and amino acid composition in the marine diatom Nitzschia pungens
Authors: Jackson Anne E. , Ayer Stephen W. , Laycock Maurice V.
Published: January 2008

Nitzschia pungens f. multiseries and N. pungens f. pungens, isolated from two estuaries in Maritime Canada, were grown at various salinities (6–48‰) and their growth rates and free amino acid compositions were determined. The optimal salinity range for growth of f. multiseries was 30–45‰, whereas that of f. pungens was 15–30‰. At higher salinities there was increased production of a ninhydrin-positive compound, which was identified as the amino acid taurine. When f. multiseries was grown at a salinity of 48‰ and rapidly exposed to 15‰, the concentration of taurine decreased markedly (from 61 to 7% of the total amino acids). The evidence indicates that taurine may serve to regulate the osmotic pressure of N. pungens f. multiseries, a role not previously assigned to taurine in a marine diatom. Key words: Nitzschia pungens, salinity, osmotic pressure, amino acids, taurine.
Development of Casparian bands and suberin lamellae in the endodermis of onion roots
Authors: Barnabas Alban D. , Peterson Carol A.
Published: January 2008

The endodermal Casparian band in onion (Allium cepa L.) roots is first evident 10 mm from the apex. It occupies a small region (20–30%) in the middle of the radial wall for a distance of 70 mm from the apex. However, with the development of suberin lamellae in most cells at greater distances from the root tip, the band expands symmetrically through the wall until, at 80 mm from the root tip, it fills the entire radial wall. Passage cells overlying some xylem poles have a delayed development of suberin lamellae, and in these cells the Casparian bands remain narrow. The sensitive stain, Fluorol yellow 088, detects precursors of the suberin lamellae in the outer tangential walls of the endodermal cells. The presence of complete lamellae is indicated by Sudan red 7B staining and resistance to acid digestion. Growth of the Casparian band during suberin lamella development may play a role in maintaining the apoplastic barrier in this layer by enlarging the contact area between the band and the lamellae. Key words: Casparian band, endodermis, suberin lamella, Allium cepa.
Effects of neutral shade and growing media on growth, biomass allocation, and competitive ability of Gaultheria shallon
Authors: Messier Christian
Published: January 2008

The growth, biomass allocation, and competitive ability of salal (Gaultheria shallon) were studied in pots grown in an open field under 100, 30, 10, and 5% full sunlight in relatively rich and poor growing media. The salal plants were grown from stem and rhizome cuttings in association with Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis) and western red cedar (Thuja plicata) seedlings. Salal cuttings were established on one-half of each pot and subjected to one of the four neutral shade treatments, whereas the conifer seedlings were established on the other half and were growing in 100% full sunlight. After two growing seasons salal produced, on average, 5 times as much total dry weight in 100% as in 5% full sunlight; no statistical differences were found between the relatively rich and poor growing media and between the Sitka spruce and western red cedar species. The leaf to fineroot ratios of salal were 3.7 and 8.7 times greater under 5% compared with 100% full sunlight on the relatively rich and poor growing media, respectively. Proportionally more leaf and less fine-root and rhizome biomass of salal were produced at 5 and 10% compared with 30 and 100% full sunlight. Rhizome production was the component of salal the most affected by shading. Leaf area of salal increased and leaf thickness and specific leaf weight decreased with shading. The growth of both conifer species was improved slightly by a reduction in salal biomass. These results indicate that light intensity alone is a very important factor influencing salal growth, biomass allocation, and competitive ability. Key words: Gaultheria shallon, shade, biomass allocation, root competition, rhizome growth.
Fruit abscission in Acer saccharinum with reference to seed dispersal
Authors: Greene D. F. , Johnson E. A.
Published: January 2008

Winged fruits and seeds travel approximately twice as far as predicted by micrometeorological models of seed dispersal by the wind. We hypothesize that seeds preferentially abscise at higher velocities because the motive force for abscission is drag (proportional to the square of the wind velocity). A 3-year study of fruit abscission in Acer saccharinum L., supplemented by experimental studies, demonstrates that for this species (i) separation layers develop rapidly when relative humidity is low (the early afternoon in a typical diurnal relative humidity cycle), and (ii) the exponents in power law equations relating abscission rate to wind speed are somewhat higher than the expected value of 2.0. Consequently, micrometeorological models of dispersal must be modified to account for the nonrandom nature of abscission. Key words: seed dispersal, abscission, Acer saccharinum.
Size and shape of Carex meyeriana tussocks in an alpine wetland, northern Sichuan Province, China
Authors: Tsuyuzaki Shiro , Tsujii Tatsuichi
Published: January 2008

To determine the morphological characteristics of Carex meyeriana tussocks, surveys were conducted in a large alpine-grassy marshland (3430 m elevation) in northern Sichuan Province, China. While tussocks did not exceed 26 cm in height, the basal area of tussocks continually expanded. Mature tussocks sometimes resulted in aggregation of tussocks. Carex meyeriana rarely developed long horizontal rhizomes and produced shoot rhizomes that led to the development of bell-shaped tussocks as a result of basal shoot (tiller) development patterns. Equisetum limosum invaded and grew in immature tussocks, while Potentilla anserina and Chamaesium paradoxum invaded the tussock summits. From the sequence of those cohabitants, the upper parts of tussocks were gradually invaded with various species. Key words: alpine wetland, Carex meyeriana, China, cohabitant, morphology, tussock.
Adaptations to herbivory in alfalfa (Medicago sativa)
Authors: Small Ernest
Published: January 2008

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) possesses numerous adaptations to herbivores. As with other wild plants, general chemical defences (notably medicagenic acid in alfalfa) and general anti-insect structures (notably trichomes) provide some protection against a wide spectrum of polyphagous insects. Several morphological adaptations protect alfalfa against specialized insect feeders, especially those that consume the seeds. Alfalfa has been disruptively selected by man to possess morphological adaptations and tolerance for two contrasting classes of herbivory: continuous grazing by livestock and intermittent harvesting for hay. Domestication of alfalfa has lowered the effectiveness of several natural adaptations against insects. Occasionally, however, artificial selection for resistance against certain insect species has, often unintentionally, resulted in selection for structural features discouraging these insects. Preadaptations of wild alfalfa for the horse facilitated this plant's domestication as a specialized horse feed, despite the fact that horses are poorly adapted in the wild to such a nutritious forage. Under conditions of domestication, however, alfalfa appears to offer horses several invaluable dietary advantages, and is much more suited to the horse than to man's other grazing herbivores. Anti-herbivorous hemolytic saponins are present in high concentrations in certain alfalfa lineages and cultivars. Horses in southern Europe and Asia have been fed low-saponin alfalfa for millenia, whereas high-saponin alfalfa has been utilized in northern Europe and much of the New World only since about the 16th century. While these compounds are poisonous for most herbivores, they could be beneficial for the horse. A very high degree of herbivorous coadaptation exists between alfalfa and its specialized pollinator, the alfalfa leafcutter bee (Megachile rotundata), and there is evidence that this relationship has coevolved. As the world's most efficient protein crop, alfalfa is preeminently adapted to mankind's future need for increased direct consumption of plant proteins. Keywords: adaptation, alfalfa, fodder, forage, herbivory, Medicago sativa.
Reduction of chilling injury in stored avocado, grapefruit, and bell pepper by methyl jasmonate
Authors: Meir Shimon , Philosoph-Hadas Sonia , Lurie Susan , Droby Samir , Akerman Miriam , Zauberman Giora , Shapiro Boris , Cohen Eliahou , Fuchs Yoram
Published: January 2008

Subjecting some chilling-sensitive commodities to various moderate stresses can cause them to acquire resistance to chilling injury. Jasmonates have been implicated in playing an integral role in the signal transduction cascade that operates in plants to induce responses to stress. Therefore, it was hypothesized that exogenous application of jasmonic acid or methyl jasmonate to chilling-sensitive commodities might replace the moderate stress treatment and reduce their chilling symptoms. To test this hypothesis, three chilling-susceptible fruits, avocado (Persea americana Mill., cvs. Hass, Etinger, and Fuerte), grapefruit (Citrus paradisi cv. Marsh seedless), and red bell pepper (Capsicum annum cv. Maor), were treated with various concentrations of methyl jasmonate prior to 4–10 weeks of storage at 2 °C. Results show that methyl jasmonate dipping (for 30 s) of avocado 'Fuerte' and 'Hass' (2.5 μM), avocado 'Etinger' or grapefruit (10 μM), and red bell pepper fruits (25 μM) significantly reduced both the severity of their chilling injury symptoms and the percentage of injured fruits. Application of methyl jasmonate by gassing for 24 h was similarly effective. In avocado 'Etinger', methyl jasmonate dipping was effective in alleviating chilling injury either after immediate storage at 2 °C or after the fruits had been held for 1 day at 20 °C prior to their storage at 2 °C. The results suggest that methyl jasmonate, which is receiving renewed biological interest as a potentially important signaling molecule in plants, might mediate the plant's natural response to chilling stress, and by its application might provide a simple means to reduce chilling injuries in chilling-susceptible commodities. Keywords: chilling injury, methyl jasmonate, postharvest treatment, stored fruits.
Conidium development in the Hyalorhinocladiella anamorphs of Ceratocystiopsis minuta-bicolor and Ophiostoma minus
Authors: Benade E. , Wingfield M. J. , Wyk P. S. Van
Published: January 2008

The genus Hyalorhinocladiella was characterized by its simple conidiophores with conidiogenous cells that proliferate sympodially. However, recent studies revealed that the Hyalorhinocladiella anamorph of Ophiostoma ips has annellidic conidium development. The aim of this study was to determine whether other species in the genus share this characteristic. Conidium development was examined in the type species, Hyalorhinocladiella minuta-bicolor, and in the Hyalorhinocladiella anamorph of Ophiostoma minus. Light and fluorescence microscopy indicated that conidia developed by sympodial proliferation. In contrast, scanning and transmission electron microscopy revealed distinct annellations on the conidiogenous cells. Conidium development in Hyalorhinocladiella is therefore annellidic, and the appearance of sympodial development results from displacement of the long axis of the conidiogenous cell through percurrent proliferation. The circumscription of the genus Hyalorhinocladiella is therefore revised to include annellidic conidium development. Keywords: Hyalorhinocladiella, Ophiostoma, sympodial, annellidic, conidium development.
A modified form of the alfalfa mosaic virus movement protein induces stressed phenotypes in transgenic tobacco
Authors: Rohfritsch O. , Poirson A. , Gagey M.-J. , Stussi-Garaud C. , Godefroy-Colburn T. , Turner A. , Roberts K.
Published: January 2008

A modified form of the movement protein (P3) of alfalfa mosaic virus, lacking amino acids 21 to 34, was transgenically expressed in Nicotiana tabacum cv. Xanthi (genotype nn) and cv. Xanthi nc (genotype NN). The modified protein (designated P3Δ[21–34]) was expressed more strongly than the full-length protein. The localization of P3Δ[21–34] was investigated by subcellular fractionation and immunocytochemistry. Immunolabelling was most frequent in vascular parenchymal cells, mainly in the cytoplasm (endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi, plasma membrane vesicles) but also in the cell wall. In contrast, full-length P3 accumulated almost exclusively in a cell-wall enriched fraction. Transgenically expressed P3Δ[21–34] increased the plasmodesmal gating capacity of epidermal cells, as did transgenically expressed P3. Thus, the plasmodesma-gating domain of P3 does not include amino acids 21 to 34. Plants expressing P3Δ[21–34] at a high level exhibited stressed phenotypes. Phenotype 1, only observed in 'Xanthi' NN lines, was characterized by stunting, small, thick, and hairy leaves, locally high starch accumulation, and occasional necrotic cells, mainly in the bundle sheath and vascular tissue. Phenotype 2, observed in both 'Xanthi' NN and nn lines, was characterized by short internodes, numerous small green leaves, sterile flowers, regular starch accumulation, and absence of necrotic cells. The stress-inducing activity of P3Δ[21–34] may be due to either its molecular conformation or its low efficiency of export toward the cell wall. Keywords: cell to cell movement, stress reaction, plasmodesmata, transgenic plant, ultrastructure, immunocytochemistry.
Phenology and reproductive effort of cultivated and wild forms of Pennisetum glaucum under experimental conditions in the Sahel: implications for the maintenance of polymorphism in the species
Authors: Renno J.-F. , Winkel T.
Published: January 2008

In the Sahel region of Africa, the wild and the cultivated forms of pearl millet, Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R.Br., are sympatric and interfertile and yet have remained distinct for millenia. Reproductive barriers are not sufficient to explain this situation. To elucidate other possible mechanisms, the two forms were compared under experimental conditions in the Sahel for their phenology and reproductive effort. The length of the flowering period of each type was much longer than the average individual flowering period. When the last cultivated plants were finishing flowering, 65% of the wild plants were still flowering and 30% were just starting to flower. Thus, the last group was completely isolated from cultivated pearl millet gene flow (endogamic reproduction). The two forms of pearl millet also differed in the distribution of aboveground biomass among different plant parts, except for the number of seeds per plant. Both phenological behaviour and reproductive effort contribute to the maintenance of distinct forms of wild and cultivated pearl millet. Keywords: Pennisetum glaucum, pearl millet, wild pearl millet, reproductive effort, phenology, endogamy.
Properties of the reversible nonoxidative vanillate / 4-hydroxybenzoate decarboxylase fromBacillus subtilis
Authors: Lupa Boguslaw , Lyon Delina , Shaw Lindsey N. , Sieprawska-Lupa Magdalena , Wiegel Juergen
Published: January 2008

Bacillus subtilis (ATCC 6051) reversibly decarboxylates vanillate and 4-hydroxybenzoate under both aerobic and anoxic conditions. Thus, we have identified on the basis of gene sequence homology with Sedimentibacter hydroxybenzoicus and Streptomyces sp. strain D7, a putative B. subtilis hydroxybenzoate decarboxylase. The native form of this enzyme is encoded by 3 genes yclBCD (GI Sequence Identification Nos.: 2632649, 2632650, 2632651) that we have renamed during this research as bsdBCD to align with existing nomenclature. The bsdD gene is reported in the database to be 690 bp; however, our sequence analysis revealed that the size of this gene is in fact 228 bp, an observation that results in a shortening of YclD (i.e., BsdD) from 229 to 75 aa. The corresponding bsdBCD genes were cloned into Escherichia coli , and the heterologously expressed enzyme was assayed for activity. The decarboxylase exhibited a narrow substrate range, with only 2 of the tested substrates, vanillate (Kmapp = 4 mmol·L–1) and 4-hydroxybenzoate (Kmapp = ~1 mmol·L–1), being decarboxylated. The recombinant enzyme had properties similar to that of the native enzyme in respect to specific activity, kinetic properties, bidirectional decarboxylase–carboxylase activity, oxygen insensitivity, and substrate specificity.
Effect of temperature onBrettanomyces bruxellensis: metabolic and kinetic aspects
Authors: Brandam Cédric , Castro-Martínez Claudia , Délia Marie-Line , Ramón-Portugal Felipe , Strehaiano Pierre
Published: January 2008

The effect of temperatures ranging from 15 to 35 °C on a culture of Brettanomyces bruxellensis was investigated in regards to thermodynamics, metabolism, and kinetics. In this temperature range, we observed an increase in growth and production rates. The growth behavior was well represented using the Arrhenius model, and an apparent activation energy of 16.61 kcal/mol was estimated. A stuck fermentation was observed at 35 °C as represented by high cell death. The carbon balance established that temperature had no effect on repartition of the glucose consumption between biomass and products. Hence, the same biomass concentration was obtained for all temperatures, except at 35 °C. Moreover, using logistic and Luedeking–Piret models, we demonstrated that production rates of ethanol and acetic acid were partially growth associated. Parameters associated with growth (αethand αaa) remained constant with changing temperature, whereas, parameters associated with the population (βethand βaa) varied. Optimal values were obtained at 32 °C for ethanol and at 25 °C for acetic acid.
CONSTRUCTION OF A PIXE DATABASE FOR SUPPORTING PIXE STUDIES: Database of Experimental Conditions and Elemental Concentration for Various Samples
Authors: ITOH J. , SAITOH Y. , FUTATSUGAWA S. , SERA K. , ISHII K.
Published: January 2008

A database of PIXE data, which have been accumulated at NMCC, has been constructed. In order to fill up the database, data are newly obtained as many as possible for the kind of samples whose number is small. In addition, the data for different measuring conditions are obtained for several samples. As the number of γ-ray spectrum obtained with a HPGe detector for the purpose of analyzing light elements such as fluorine, is overwhelmingly small in comparison with that of usual PIXE spectra, γ-ray spectrum and elemental concentration of fluorine are obtained as many as possible for food, environmental and hair samples. In addition, the data taken with an in-air PIXE system have been obtained for various samples. As a result, the database involving contents over various research fields is constructed, and it is expected to be useful for researches who make use of analytical techniques. It is expected that this work will give a start to many researchers to participate in the database and to make calibration with each other in order to establish reliable analytical techniques. Moreover, the final goal of the database is to establish the control concentration values for typical samples. As the first step of establishing the control values, average elemental concentration and its standard deviations in hair samples taken from 405 healthy Japanese are obtained and tabulated according to their sex and age.
STUDY THE DEFICIENCY OF POTASSIUM, MANGANESE, COPPER AND ZINC CONCENTRATION IN THE ABDOMINAL AORTIC ANEURISM BY PIXE ANALYSIS
Authors: VATANKHAH S. , MOOSAVI K. , SALIMI J. , LAMEHI M. , FARAHANI M. FARMAHINI
Published: January 2008

The concentration of some trace elements especially potassium calcium, manganese, copper and zinc in the arterial wall tissue for the aneurism patients was studied by PIXE (Proton Induced X-Ray Emission) analysis. Comparing the results with normal aortic wall tissues has been done. All the patients are in the age range of 40-60 years. The samples are derived from 15 patients by surgical operation. The results show the absence of manganese, and decreasing of potassium, Copper and Zinc in the aneurismal tissues. Change in copper concentration in the arterial wall is important in the breakdown of the elastic layer in the aneurism. Elevation of the Calcium and Iron in the aneurism tissues are obtained in the comparison with the control groups. Deficiency or elevation of some elements in the aneurism aorta can be encountered as an indicator in the biopsy analysis.
ELEMENTAL ANALYSIS OF EDIBLE PLANTS IN NATURAL ENVIRONMENT: Trace Elements in Wild Plants
Authors: ITOH J. , SAITOH Y. , FUTATSUGAWA S. , ISHII K. , SERA K.
Published: January 2008

We have measured concentration of multi elements in wild plants collected in Iwate prefecture, Japan. It is found that wild plants contain essential elements such as iron, copper and zinc in the same degree or more in comparison with those in vegetables on the market. It is also found that wild plants contain toxic elements such as chromium and lead in the same degree or less in comparison with vegetables on the market. We took the soils together with the wild plants in nine representative spots and analyzed elemental concentration in them in order to examine the relationship of elemental concentration between plants and soils. Although elemental concentration in each soil has distinguished features, which in wild plants grown on the soil does not directly reflect that in the soil. It is expected that elemental concentration in wild plants is influenced by various factors such as chemical state of existing elements in the soil, pH of the soil, activity of microorganism in the soil, and many other factors.
SOURCES OF ATMOSPHERIC PARTICLES IN THE VICINITY OF COAL-FIRED THERMAL POWER PLANT
Authors: BALOURIA P. , BEDI S. C. , GOVIL I. M. , MOHANTY B. P. , SINGH H. , GARG M. L.
Published: January 2008

The scope of this study was to determine the concentration and composition of atmospheric particulate matter of aerodynamic diameter < 10 μm (PM10) in the vicinity of coal-fired Ropar thermal power plant near Chandigarh, India. Two sampling sites, one inside the thermal plant and the other, outside the thermal plant were chosen. The elemental analysis was done using Proton Induced X-ray Emission (PIXE) technique. The elements detected at both the sites were common i.e. Si , S , Cl , K , Ca , Ti , Cr , Mn , Fe , Co , Ni , Cu and Zn however, their concentration vary at both the sampling sites. Also, Principal Component (PC) and Enrichment Factor (EF) analysis were done in order to identify the contributing elemental sources towards the particulate matter. Contributing sources to the elements were found not only the emission from the coal-fired thermal power plant but also from other activities like vehicular emissions, household cooking and natural soil dust etc.
PARTICLE INDUCED X-RAY EMISSION STUDIES OF SOME INDIAN MEDICINAL PLANTS
Authors: NOMITA DEVI K. , NANDAKUMAR SARMA H. , KUMAR SANJIV
Published: January 2008

Medicinal herbs have been used from antiquity by humanity. This paper discusses the elemental composition and concentration of ten Indian medicinal plants investigated by particle induced X-ray emission (PIXE) technique. The accuracy and precision of the technique were assured by analyzing three Certified Standard Reference Materials-cabbage (GBW 08504, China), wheat flour (NIST-8436) and bovine liver (NIST-1577b). The elements K , Ca , Mn , Fe , Cu and Zn were found to be present in all the samples in varying concentrations. No toxic heavy metals such as As , Pb and Hg were detected in the studied plants. The range of the elemental concentrations in dry weight has been found to vary from 4.69 × 104mg/kg to 1.81 mg/kg in the plants. The results also show that these plants contain elements of vital importance in man's metabolism and that are needed for growth and developments, prevention and healing of diseases.
ELEMENTAL MAPPING OF A POST OAK LEAF USING A PROTON MICROPROBE
Authors: NAAB F. U. , MCDANIEL F. D. , DUGGAN J. L. , BOLING B. C. , SMITH D.
Published: January 2008

Elemental distributions in a post oak leaf was measured using the Particle-Induced X-ray Emission (PIXE) technique and a proton microbeam at energy of 3 MeV with spatial resolution of 10 μm. The elements detected in this sample were Mg , Al , Si , P , S , Cl , K , Ca , Cr , Mn , Fe , Cu , Zn , Br , Rb , and Sr . Among them, spatial differences in the distribution of nine elements were observed between the vascular and mesophyll tissue. Si , Cl , K , and Ca were mostly accumulated in vascular tissue, while Mg , P , S , Cr , and Mn were for the most part accumulated in the mesophyll. The distribution of Ca appeared to follow cell wall contours. The distribution of some of these elements is compared to the function of the elements in living tissue and future possibilities for this type of investigation are discussed.
INTEGRODIFFERENTIAL HEMIVARIATIONAL INEQUALITIES WITH APPLICATIONS TO VISCOELASTIC FRICTIONAL CONTACT
Authors: MIGÓRSKI STANISŁAW , OCHAL ANNA , SOFONEA MIRCEA
Published: January 2008

We consider a class of abstract second-order evolutionary inclusions involving a Volterra-type integral term, for which we prove an existence and uniqueness result. The proof is based on arguments of evolutionary inclusions with monotone operators and the Banach fixed point theorem. Next, we apply this result to prove the solvability of a class of second-order integrodifferential hemivariational inequalities and, under an additional assumption, its unique solvability. Then we consider a mathematical model which describes the frictional contact between a deformable body and a foundation. The process is dynamic, the material behavior is described with a viscoelastic constitutive law involving a long memory term and the contact is modelled with subdifferential boundary conditions. We derive the variational formulation of the problem which is of the form of an integrodifferential hemivariational inequality for the displacement field. Then we use our abstract results to prove the existence of a unique weak solution to the frictional contact model.
INTEGRATING SPC TABLE FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT WITH SCORM
Authors: CHANG WEN-CHIH , HSU HUI-HUANG , SHIH TIMOTHY K. , YANG HSUAN-CHE
Published: January 2008

SCORM (Sharable Content Object Reference Model) is one of the international e-learning specifications, which provides sharable content, compatible run-time environment and learning profile. SCORM supports accessibility, adaptability, affordability, durability, interoperability and reusability. People can share their own learning content with each other and learn things on the Internet. SCORM learning content can run on the SCORM learning management system. However SCORM do not have a complete evaluation mechanism. The SP chart represents students and problems. It is a tool to analyze the relationship between students and their answers to test problems. In this paper, we integrate the SP chart into SCORM as a formative assessment and add course as the third dimension to strengthen SCORM assessment. The developed tool can be used for SCORM assessment in three perspectives: student-problem, course-problem, and student-problem. So any test problem set and the student performance can be thoroughly examined. The tool was applied to a class and the empirical results are presented in this paper.
ENERGY EFFICIENT DATA DISSEMINATION FOR UNIFORM COVERAGE IN WIRELESS SENSOR NETWORKS
Authors: HUSSAIN SAJID , RAHMAN MD ASHIQUR
Published: January 2008

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are commonly used for continuous monitoring applications. However, due to remote and inaccessible WSN deployments, the batteries cannot be easily replaced. As a result, the quality of sensor monitoring changes with respect to time. We investigate the rate of change in coverage as sensor nodes are depleted of their energy resources. In this paper, we propose a coverage analysis method which not only focuses on the coverage itself but also on its uniformity and efficiency. The paper documents interesting network coverage evaluation studies showing several ways of getting valuable information about a WSN's coverage's uniformity and efficiency by appropriately interpreting the change in its efficient and redundant coverage ratios (efficient and redundant coverage ratios are terms defined in this paper). We also specify the particular WSN applications where the proposed coverage analysis method will be more suitable.
MANEUVERING OF BIOMIMETIC FISH BY INTEGRATING A BUOYANCY BODY WITH MODULAR UNDULATING FINS
Authors: LOW K. H.
Published: January 2008

Biomimetic robots borrow their senses and structure from animals, such as insects, fishes, and human. Development of underwater vehicles is one of the areas where biomimetic robots can potentially perform better than conventional robots. In this paper, an undulating fin mechanism has been developed and used as the propulsion system of fish in various fin types. The layout and workspace of the modular fin segments are considered and analyzed. The relationship of the individual fin segment and phase angles with the overall fin trajectory is also discussed. A gymnotiform knifefish robot, as an example, has been developed to demonstrate the design methodology and prototype performance. The maneuvering and the buoyancy control can be achieved by the integration of a buoyancy tank with the undulating fin. Experiments were conducted in the laboratory tank and the variation of velocity with respect to several swimming parameters was analyzed. Field trials have also been conducted in an outdoor pool to demonstrate the swimming capability of the knifefish robot and its buoyancy performance in 4 m deep water.