bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural basis for red‐shifted emission of a GFP‐like protein from the marine copepod Chiridius poppei
Authors: Suto Kyoko , Masuda Hiromi , Takenaka Yasuhiro , Tsuji Frederick I. , Mizuno Hiroshi
Published: May 2009

The fluorescence excitation and emission maxima of a GFP‐like protein from the marine copepod Chiridius poppei (CpYGFP) show a significant red shift (λex = 509 nm, λem = 517 nm) compared with those of GFP from Aequorea victoria (avGFP) and other GFP‐like proteins from marine copepods. We performed crystallographic and biochemical studies to understand why this shift occurs in CpYGFP. The structure of CpYGFP showed that the imidazole side chain of His52 is involved in stacking on the phenol moiety of the chromophore. We investigated the potential role of His52 in causing the red‐shifted spectral properties by performing mutational analyses of H52T, H52D and H52F. The emission wavelengths of H52T and H52D were blue‐shifted and that of H52F was red‐shifted relative to the wild type. Comparison of its structure of another copepod GFP (ppluGFP2) having an emission maximum at 502 nm showed that the imidazole ring of His54 (corresponding to His52 in CpYGFP) is flipped out of the stacking position with the chromophore. These findings suggest that π–π stacking interaction between His52 and the phenol moiety of the chromophore is the likely cause of the red‐shift in light emission.
Lifespan extension by suppression of autophagy genes in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Hashimoto Yasufumi , Ookuma Sadatsugu , Nishida Eisuke
Published: May 2009

Lifespan is regulated by a complex combination of environmental and genetic factors. Autophagy, which is a bulk degradation system of macromolecules and organelles, has an important role in various biological events. In Caenorhabditis elegans, several autophagy genes have been shown to have a role in promoting longevity, but many other autophagy genes have not been examined for their role in the lifespan regulation. Here we have systematically examined the effect of RNAi suppression of 14 autophagy genes on lifespan. While maternal RNAi of autophagy genes in wild‐type worms tended to reduce lifespan, maternal RNAi of each of seven autophagy genes in the insulin/IGF‐1 receptor daf‐2 mutants extended lifespan. Remarkably, RNAi of unc‐51/atg‐1, bec‐1/atg‐6 or atg‐9, from young adult, i.e. after development, extended lifespan in both wild‐type animals and daf‐2 mutants, although RNAi of one or two genes shortened it. Moreover, our analysis suggests that the lifespan extension, which is induced by RNAi of unc‐51, bec‐1 or atg‐9 after development, does not require the transcription factor daf‐16, the NAD+‐dependent protein deacetylase sir‐2.1 or the genes related to mitochondrial functions. Collectively, our results suggest that autophagy may not always be beneficial to longevity, but may also function to restrict lifespan in C. elegans.
Identification of novel virulence factors associated with signal transduction pathways in Alternaria brassicicola
Authors: Cho Yangrae , Kim Kwang‐Hyung , La Rota Mauricio , Scott Derrick , Santopietro Graciela , Callihan Meagan , Mitchell Thomas K. , Lawrence Christopher B.
Published: May 2009

Alternaria brassicicola is an important, necrotrophic fungal pathogen that causes black spot disease on Brassicas. In order to study pathogenicity mechanisms, gene deletion mutants were generated for 21 putative regulatory genes including kinases and transcription factors subjectively selected from the annotated A. brassicicola genome. Except for Ste12, the deletion of the SNF1 kinase, XlnR, and CreA homologues that control cell wall‐degrading enzyme production did not significantly affect virulence in contrast to other pathogenic fungi. Only deletion of XlnR but not CreA, Ste12 or SNF1 impaired the fungus' ability to utilize sole carbon sources suggesting Alternaria regulates expression of cell wall‐degrading enzymes in a novel manner. In addition, two novel virulence factors encoding a transcription factor (AbPro1) and a two‐component histidine kinase gene (AbNIK1) were discovered. Deletion of AbPro1 resulted in a 70% reduction in virulence and a 25% reduction in vegetative growth rates in vitro. Deletion of AbNIK1 resulted in a near complete loss of virulence, increased sensitivity to osmotic stress, and no changes in vegetative growth rates in vitro. Interestingly, addition of long polypeptides to spores of both Δabste12 and Δabnik1 during inoculations resulted in a complete restoration of pathogenicity through a yet to be defined mechanism.
Comparing methods of analysing datasets with small clusters: case studies using four paediatric datasets
Authors: Marston Louise , Peacock Janet L. , Yu Keming , Brocklehurst Peter , Calvert Sandra A. , Greenough Anne , Marlow Neil
Published: May 2009

Studies of prematurely born infants contain a relatively large percentage of multiple births, so the resulting data have a hierarchical structure with small clusters of size 1, 2 or 3. Ignoring the clustering may lead to incorrect inferences. The aim of this study was to compare statistical methods which can be used to analyse such data: generalised estimating equations, multilevel models, multiple linear regression and logistic regression. Four datasets which differed in total size and in percentage of multiple births (n = 254, multiple 18%; n = 176, multiple 9%; n = 10 098, multiple 3%; n = 1585, multiple 8%) were analysed.

With the continuous outcome, two‐level models produced similar results in the larger dataset, while generalised least squares multilevel modelling (ML GLS ‘xtreg’ in Stata) and maximum likelihood multilevel modelling (ML MLE ‘xtmixed’ in Stata) produced divergent estimates using the smaller dataset. For the dichotomous outcome, most methods, except generalised least squares multilevel modelling (ML GH ‘xtlogit’ in Stata) gave similar odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals within datasets. For the continuous outcome, our results suggest using multilevel modelling.

We conclude that generalised least squares multilevel modelling (ML GLS ‘xtreg’ in Stata) and maximum likelihood multilevel modelling (ML MLE ‘xtmixed’ in Stata) should be used with caution when the dataset is small. Where the outcome is dichotomous and there is a relatively large percentage of non‐independent data, it is recommended that these are accounted for in analyses using logistic regression with adjusted standard errors or multilevel modelling. If, however, the dataset has a small percentage of clusters greater than size 1 (e.g. a population dataset of children where there are few multiples) there appears to be less need to adjust for clustering.
Analgesia for labour: a survey of Norwegian practice – with a focus on parenteral opioids
Authors: TVEIT T. O. , HALVORSEN A. , ROSLAND J. H.
Published: May 2009

Background: During the last two decades, epidural analgesia has become ‘a gold standard’ for labour pain in most Western countries. Newer short‐acting opioids given systemically represent an alternative for adequate pain relief without using regional techniques. With this survey, we wish to explore how Norwegian hospitals practice labour analgesia, especially their use of systemic opioids.

Methods: A questionnaire was sent to the head of all 46 registered Norwegian labour units in 2005. The questionnaire focused on epidural and the use of systemic opioids. In 2008, the same questionnaire was sent to the 19 largest units reporting >1000 births a year, seeking updated information.

Results: Forty‐three of the 46 original questionnaires were returned. An epidural frequency of 25.9% was registered. For epidural treatment, bupivacaine was the preferred local anaesthetic, while sufentanil was the opioid of choice for the majority of units. Pethidine was the most commonly used opioid for systemic administration (77%). All units reported nurse administration of systemic opioids. The intramuscular route was most commonly used, either alone (58%) or in combination with an intravenous (i.v.) administration (34%). Only one unit used i.v. fentanyl. There were only minor changes with the repeated survey, except for one large unit, which reported over a 50% increase in the epidural frequency.

Conclusion: In Norway, the frequency of epidural for labour analgesia is still relatively low, but seems to be increasing. Systemic opioids are often used instead of or as a supplement. Clinical practice seems to be conservative, and newer short‐acting opioids are seldom used systemically.
Effect of vegetation management on autumn dispersal of Tetranychus urticae (Acari: Tetranychidae) from tomato
Authors: Meck E. D. , Walgenbach J. F. , Kennedy G. G.
Published: May 2009

Autumn dispersal of twospotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae Koch) from tomato to overwintering host plants was studied in field experiments during 2004–2006. Three vegetation management strategies (herbicide, cultivation and no vegetation control) were established around mite‐infested, senescing tomato plants. Tetranychus urticae dispersal was monitored using trap plants of common chickweed (Stellaria media) at 2, 6 and 12 m from the tomatoes within each vegetation management plot. Chickweed plants were sampled in the autumn and spring from 2004 to 2006. Sticky traps were placed next to trap plants in the autumn of 2005 to monitor aerial dispersal of mites. Mite populations infesting chickweed were low, and autumn dispersal of mites from tomatoes to the chickweed plots was considered to be short range. The vegetation management strategies had no effect on mite densities found in the chickweed, but the capture of mites on sticky traps indicated that aerial dispersal was also a means of dispersal to overwintering hosts.
Intra‐ and inter‐specific crosses of Solanum materials after mitotic polyploidization in vitro
Authors: Greplová M. , Polzerová H. , Domkářová J.
Published: May 2009

Mitotic polyploidization in vitro was used in selected wild Solanum species and Solanum tuberosum dihaploids. The efficiency of polyploidization by colchicine was compared with that of oryzalin. Oryzalin was more effective than colchicine (P = 0.1). The rate of non‐affected to mixoploid to tetraploid regenerants was 22 : 2.5 : 1 (colchicine) and 14 : 2 : 1 (oryzalin). Optimal concentrations and durations were 3.5 mm/24 h for colchicine and 25 or 30 μm for 24 or 48 h for oryzalin (variations in concentration and duration are necessary owing to possible diversity of responses in selected genotypes). Tetraploids were obtained from S. berthaultii, S. bulbocastanum, S. pinnatisectum, S. verrucosum and eleven S. tuberosum dihaploids. The yield of tetraploids derived from tbr dihaploids was lower than that from the wild species (P = 0.01). Tetraploid regenerants were tested in intra‐ and inter‐specific crosses. Three of 43 intra‐specific combinations (298 pollinated flowers) were successful and yielded 440 seeds. Inter‐specific crosses (138 combinations, 1672 pollinated flowers) yielded 48 seedless berries.
The expression pattern of PKCθ in satellite cells of normal and regenerating muscle in the rat
Authors: Tokugawa Seiji , Sakuma Kunihiro , Fujiwara Hiroyoshi , Hirata Miyuki , Oda Ryo , Morisaki Shinsuke , Yasuhara Masahiro , Kubo Toshikazu
Published: May 2009

Protein kinase C (PKC) is a key enzyme in regulating a variety of cellular functions. PKCθ is the most abundant PKC isoform expressed in skeletal muscle. However, the functional role of PKCθ linked to muscle regeneration has not yet been identified. Using reverse transcription (RT)‐PCR and immunofluorescence analysis, we investigated the expression patterns of PKCθ in normal and regenerating tibialis anterior (TA) muscles in the rat. The amount of PKCθ mRNA in the muscle increased from the 4th to 6th post‐surgical day. Immunofluorescence revealed PKCθ protein in quiescent satellite cells identified by c‐Met. PKCθ immunoreactivity was not observed in many proliferating satellite cells by labeling with BrdU in the regenerating muscle. At 4, 6 and 10 days postsurgery, PKCθ immunoreactivity was observed in half the differentiating satellite cells labeling with myogenin. After 4 and 6 days, the localization of PKCθ coincided with those of Pax7 and TGF‐β. Thus, PKCθ may play an important role in inhibiting differentiation and maintaining the quiescent satellite cells in muscle regeneration.
Progressive supranuclear palsy combined with Alzheimer's disease: A clinicopathological study of two autopsy cases
Authors: Sakamoto Rieko , Tsuchiya Kuniaki , Yoshida Ryoichi , Itoh Yoshinori , Furuta Nobuo , Kosuga Asako , Sugai Yuichi , Mimura Masaru
Published: May 2009

We present here the clinicopathological characteristics of two autopsy‐confirmed cases comorbid of progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) and Alzheimer's disease (AD). Histopathologically, the amount and distribution of neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) in the basal ganglia and brainstem fulfilled the pathological criteria of PSP proposed by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke – The Society for PSP (NINDS‐SPSP). The Braak stages of senile plaques and NFTs were stage C and stage V in Case 1, and stage C and stage IV in Case 2. These neuropathological findings confirmed that the two patients had combined PSP with AD. Our patients presented clinically with executive dysfunction prior to memory disturbance as an early symptom. Not only neurological symptoms such as gait disturbance, supranuclear ophthalmoplegia and pseudobulbar palsy, but emotional and personality changes and delirium were prominent. Therefore, symptoms of subcortical dementia of PSP were more predominant than AD‐related symptoms in the present two patients. Comorbid PSP and AD further complicates the clinical picture and makes clinical diagnosis even more difficult.
Cytoplasmic LRIG2 expression is associated with poor oligodendroglioma patient survival
Authors: Holmlund Camilla , Haapasalo Hannu , Yi Wei , Raheem Olayinka , Brännström Thomas , Bragge Helena , Henriksson Roger , Hedman Håkan
Published: May 2009

The three leucine‐rich repeats and immunoglobulin‐like domains (LRIG) genes encode integral membrane proteins. Of these, LRIG1 negatively regulates growth factor signaling and is implicated as a tumor suppressor in certain malignancies. In astrocytic tumors, the subcellular distribution of LRIG proteins is associated with specific clinicopathological features and patient survival. The role of LRIG proteins in oligodendroglioma has not previously been studied. Here we used immunohistochemistry to analyze the expression of the LRIG proteins in 63 oligodendroglial tumors, and evaluated possible associations between LRIG protein expression and clinicopathological parameters. Notably, cytoplasmic LRIG2 expression was found to be an independent prognostic factor associated with poor oligodendroglioma patient survival. This is the first report of an LRIG protein showing a negative effect on survival, suggesting that LRIG2 might have a function different from that of LRIG1, and possibly contributing to the etiology of oligodendroglioma.
Classification of follicular cell tumors of the thyroid gland: Analysis involving Japanese patients from one institute
Authors: Kakudo Kennichi , Bai Yanhua , Katayama Shoichi , Hirokawa Mitsuyoshi , Ito Yasuhiro , Miyauchi Akira , Kuma Kanji
Published: May 2009

Prognostic analyses of thyroid carcinomas of follicular cell origin were carried out on patients treated at Kuma Hospital, Kobe, Japan. A new histopathological classification based on the prognostic evidence is proposed in this study, and it is applicable to the patients treated curatively. Major histological types of papillary carcinoma, follicular carcinoma and poorly differentiated carcinoma were combined into one single entity of follicular cell adenocarcinoma because (i) they have the same cell origin (follicular cell); (ii) clear‐cut separation of papillary and follicular carcinoma is not always possible, and 10 year cause‐specific survival was essentially similar when the patients were treated curatively; and (iii) poorly differentiated carcinoma usually has a background of either papillary or follicular carcinoma. This adenocarcinoma together with undifferentiated carcinoma was stratified into four prognostic groups using pure morphological criteria of the degree of cellular differentiation and histological grade. They are termed well‐differentiated adenocarcinoma, moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma, poorly differentiated carcinoma and undifferentiated carcinoma of the thyroid. The 10 year disease‐free survival rates were 86.3–93.1%, 65.4–78.7%, and 43.0–53.8%, and 0%, respectively. The 10 year cause‐specific survival rates were 97.2–100%, 91.5–97.4%, and 71.2–80.0%, and 0%, respectively.
Expression of sphingosine kinase 2 in synovial fibroblasts of rheumatoid arthritis contributing to apoptosis by a sphingosine analogue, FTY720
Authors: Kamada Kazuo , Arita Norimasa , Tsubaki Takahito , Takubo Nobuo , Fujino Takahiro , Soga Yoshiko , Miyazaki Tatsuhiko , Yamamoto Haruyasu , Nose Masato
Published: May 2009

Gene expression profiles in synovial tissues from rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients have yielded useful information on the pathogenetic process of the synovitis. In one group of them, sphingosine kinase 2 (SPHK2), a nuclear protein regulating cell proliferation, seemed to be highly expressed, undergoing a different pathogenetic process of synovitis. In the present study it was clarified that SPHK2 was expressed in the synovial fibroblasts of the synovial tissues obtained from the knee joints of the RA patients. In the cultured synovial fibroblasts from these patients, SPHK2 was more highly expressed than that in the human macrophage cell line, THP‐1 and human dermal fibroblasts. SPHK2 was expressed in and around the nucleus and transferred to the cytoplasm and cell surface by the administration of epidermal growth factor, associated with the increased expression of sphingosine‐1‐phosphate. A sphingosine analogue, FTY720, which is activated by phosphorylation specifically by SPHK2, mediated apoptotic signaling of the cultured synovial fibroblasts. These findings suggest that SPHK2 may regulate the autonomous proliferation of synovial fibroblasts as one of the predisposing genes to RA and could be a target for a novel therapeutic strategy for RA.
Multiple pulmonary atypical carcinoids presenting with long‐standing Cushing syndrome masked by pulmonary tuberculosis
Authors: Jang Bo‐Gun , Kim Seong Yeon , Park Sung‐Hye
Published: May 2009

Pulmonary neuroendocrine tumors, especially small cell carcinoma and typical carcinoids, are the most common cause of ectopic Cushing syndrome (CS). Sometimes these adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)‐producing tumors are too small to localize, and it may take a long time to identify them. This report describes the case of a 27‐year‐old‐man with CS. This CS was due to the ectopic ACTH produced by the pulmonary atypical carcinoids, which were recognized at the disseminated stage 5 years after the initial presentation of CS. Microscopically, multiple whitish nodules (up to 1.0 cm in diameter) of the wedge‐resected lung were composed of small round cells appearing to be typical neuroendocrine but were diagnosed as atypical carcinoid, based on the findings of focal necrosis, high mitotic rates and multiple endolymphatic tumor emboli. Immunohistochemically, tumor cells robustly stained for ACTH. The delay of diagnosis is, in part, attributable to the pulmonary tuberculosis (one of the complications of hypercortisolism), because the pulmonary tuberculosis presented in the form of multiple nodules throughout the lung. In addition, this patient had a Crooke's cell hyperplasia of the pituitary gland, which represents the reactive change of corticotrophs exposed to the excess cortisol rather than neoplastic change leading to CS.
Lobular carcinoma of the breast with extracellular mucin: New variant of mucin‐producing carcinomas?
Authors: Rosa Marilin , Mohammadi Amir , Masood Shahla
Published: May 2009

The presence of mucin in infiltrating lobular carcinomas has been described as occurring exclusively in an intracytoplasmic location. To the best of the authors' knowledge, infiltrating lobular carcinoma displaying extracellular mucin has not been described in the literature. Herein is presented a case of lobular carcinoma with extracellular mucin in a 60‐year‐old female patient, who also had a contralateral ductal carcinoma of the cribriform type. Histologically the tumor had the classical appearance of infiltrating lobular carcinoma with signet ring cells and ‘Indian file’ infiltration of the stroma as well as pools of extracellular mucin. It is of great importance to appropriately classify breast carcinomas as ductal or lobular in origin due to the different treatment, prognosis, and clinical behavior of these lesions. The present finding opens the door for discussion of the current knowledge concerning histological variants of lobular carcinoma and should alert pathologists to the fact that the presence of extracellular mucin in an otherwise classical infiltrating lobular carcinoma does not preclude this diagnosis.
Imaging of the anterior segment in glaucoma
Authors: See Jovina Li Shuen
Published: May 2009

Abstract

Although constituting only about a quarter of all glaucoma, angle closure glaucoma causes a disproportionate amount of visual morbidity and is predicted to be responsible for almost half of bilateral blindness by 2020. Early detection and treatment of angle closure significantly improves visual prognosis. Identification of eyes at risk of angle closure currently relies on opportunistic case detection, often by gonioscopy. However, gonioscopy is a highly subjective technique and often leads to misdiagnosis and underdetection of angle closure. More recently, various imaging modalities that allow a more objective assessment of the anterior segment structures, including anterior segment optical coherence tomography and the scanning peripheral anterior chamber depth analyser, have come under close scrutiny for their potential in screening for angle closure. Their accuracy and repeatability, advantages and disadvantages as well as their ease of use are all important to consider whether they are intended for use in the clinical setting or if they are to be incorporated into mass screening programs. Furthermore, their place alongside gonioscopy and more established technologies such as ultrasound biomicroscopy must be considered. The aim of this paper is to review the anterior segment imaging technologies that are currently available.
Clinical patterns of uveitis in two ophthalmology centres in Bogota, Colombia
Authors: De‐la‐Torre Alejandra , López‐Castillo Christian Adrián , Rueda Juan C , Mantilla Rubén Darío , Gómez‐Marín Jorge Enrique , Anaya Juan‐Manuel
Published: May 2009

Abstract

Purpose:  To describe the distribution pattern and the clinical features of uveitis in two ophthalmology referral centres in Colombia.

Methods:  This was a retrospective study in which clinical records of patients attending the centres between 1996 and 2006 were systematically reviewed. Data were analysed and compared with previous reports.

Results:  Uveitis was found in 693 patients: 335 men (48.3%) and 358 women (51.7%). The mean age for the first presentation was 31.7 ± 18.3 years. Unilateral (73.4%), acute (68.3%), posterior (35.9%) and non‐granulomatous (90.6%) were the most common types of uveitis found in the sample. Toxoplasmosis was the most frequent cause in this study followed in order by idiopathic and toxocariasis. Vogt–Koyanagi–Harada, Behçet's disease, sarcoidosis and white dot syndromes were less common. Some causes such as systemic lupus erythematosus and tuberculosis were extremely rare. Presumed ocular histoplasmosis, onchocerciasis and Lyme disease were absent.

Conclusions:  The results of this study provide the first report of clinical patterns for uveitis in Colombia. This study will enhance awareness of uveitis, and data should assist in the development of public health policies in our population for the improvement of patient outcomes.
Biology of milk thistle (Silybum marianum) and the management options for growers in north‐western Pakistan
Authors: KHAN MUHAMMAD AZIM , BLACKSHAW ROBERT E. , MARWAT KHAN B.
Published: May 2009

Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) is cultivated as a medicinal plant but it also can be a troublesome weed. It is an annual or biennial herb that prefers high rainfall and fertile soils. Milk thistle has become a widespread weed in north‐western Pakistan, where it causes yield reductions ≤37% in wheat and poses harvesting problems due to its thorny nature. Shortcomings in cultural practises, such as a low crop seed rate, wide row spacing, broadcast fertilizer, and limited crop rotation have contributed to milk thistle becoming a severe weed problem for farmers in this region. This paper reviews the biology of milk thistle and discusses the possible management options for its control, considering the socioeconomic conditions of farmers in Pakistan.
Effects of nitrogen fertilization and cutting height on the forage yield and feeding value of Eleusine indica in the dry season in Nepal
Authors: REGMI PRAJWAL R. , DEVKOTA NABA R.
Published: May 2009

The objective of this study was to determine the regrowth characteristics, crude protein (CP) content, and feeding value of Eleusine indica grass during the dry season in Nepal. The grass was cultivated using three different levels of N fertilization (0, 50, and 100 kg ha−1) and cutting heights (2, 4, and 6 cm above the ground) in a 3 × 3 factorial design. The forage yield, number of tillers per plant, and CP content of the grass were determined. A digestibility trial was conducted with six local, female Khari goats (15 ± 1.7 kg body weight) in a cross‐over design to compare the feeding value of E. indica with local forages. A comparatively higher forage yield, number of tillers per plant, and CP content were obtained with 100 kg N ha−1. However, the forage yield and CP content were not significantly affected by the cutting height. With different levels of N fertilization and cutting heights, the cumulative forage yield in five harvests during the dry season (December to May) ranged from 1.83–3.82 t dry matter ha−1. The digestibility coefficients of the dry matter, CP, crude fiber, and ether extract content of E. indica for goats were 0.54, 0.67, 0.70, and 0.54, respectively. The nutrient digestibility and palatability of E. indica were comparable to that of the mixed local forages. Hence, E. indica in conjunction with a sound N fertilization practise potentially can be utilized as an approach to overcome the problem of green forage scarcity, especially during the dry winter season in regions that have a tropical climate.
Invasiveness evaluation of fireweed (Crassocephalum crepidioides) based on its seed germination features
Authors: CHEN GUO QI , GUO SHUI LIANG , HUANG QIU SHENG
Published: May 2009

In China, fireweed (Crassocephalum crepioides) is listed as an invasive plant that is also cultivated as a vegetable. To gain a clearer understanding of its invasiveness and rapid spread, we evaluated its seed dispersal ability, and the influences of light, temperature, pH, NaCl stress, moisture content, and storage periods on its seed germination. Its seed dispersal ability is limited. The seed germination of fireweed is inhibited by darkness, temperatures <10°C or >35°C, and a NaCl solution with a concentration >0.15 mol L−1. The optimal conditions under which nearly all the seeds could germinate are light, with temperatures from 20 to 30°C, and a neutral soil with 40% moisture content. The seeds of fireweed have no apparent dormancy and retain a high viability after room storage for 10 months. Fireweed only has a moderate invasive capacity and its wide distribution in China possibly correlates with its cultivation.
Effect of the sowing date on the growth of hairy vetch (Vicia villosa) as a cover crop influenced the weed biomass and soil chemical properties in a subtropical region
Authors: ANUGROHO FAJRI , KITOU MAKOTO , NAGUMO FUJIO , KINJO KAZUTOSHI , TOKASHIKI YOSHIHIRO
Published: May 2009

Weeds emerge throughout the year in agricultural fields in subtropical regions. The weed suppression and improved soil fertility resulting from a living mulch of hairy vetch were investigated. Hairy vetch was sown in October and in December 2006. The fallow condition was without the sowing of hairy vetch, with the weeds allowed to grow naturally. The biomass of the top parts (BOT) of hairy vetch increased from February to April and then decreased in May on both sowing dates. The BOT of hairy vetch sown in October was significantly higher in February, March, and April than that sown in December. Hairy vetch sown in October and harvested from February to April varied from 372–403 × 10−3 kg m−2, with weed suppression percentages of 62.8% in comparison with the fallow plots. The fixed C, N, P, and mineral uptake of hairy vetch showed similar patterns to its biomass. The nitrate (NO3‐N) content increased from February to May for the soils in the October and December plots, in contrast to the fallow plots. Moreover, the NO3‐N and available N of the October and December soils sampled from February to May were higher than that of the fallow soils. In subtropical agriculture, hairy vetch should be sown in October in order to achieve a higher biomass for suppressing weeds effectively and improving the soil fertility, mainly N.
Allelopathic potential of wild onion (Asphodelus tenuifolius) on the germination and seedling growth of chickpea (Cicer arietinum)
Authors: BABAR BABAR H. , TANVEER ASIF , TAHIR MUHAMMAD , AZIZ AHSAN , AHMAD AZRAF‐UL HAQ , NADEEM MUHAMMAD A. , JAVAID MUHAMMAD M.
Published: May 2009

Water extracts obtained from the roots, shoots, and fruits of mature wild onion (Asphodelus tenuifolius) plants and soil taken from an A. tenuifolius field were used to determine their allelopathic effects on the germination and seedling growth of chickpea (Cicer arietinum) in the laboratory. The roots, shoots, and fruits of A. tenuifolius were soaked individually in water in a ratio of 1:20 (w/v) for 24 h to prepare the extracts. Distilled water was used as the control. The germinated seeds were taken out from the Petri dishes and counted every day for 12 days. The seeds of chickpea were also sown in sand and in each of the controlled, normal soil and the soil taken from the A. tenuifolius‐infested field in Petri dishes to record the length and weight of the roots and shoots 18 days after sowing. The mean germination time reached the maximum amount for the stem and fruit extracts. The fruit extract caused the most reduction in the germination index and the germination percentage of chickpea. The different wild onion organ extracts significantly reduced the root and shoot length and biomass of the chickpea seedlings compared with the distilled water. The fruit extract of wild onion proved to be the most detrimental to the root length, shoot length, and dry weight of the chickpea seedlings. The soil beneath the A. tenuifolius plants significantly reduced the emergence, root length, shoot length, shoot dry weight, and seedling dry weight but increased the root dry weight of the chickpea seedlings. It is suggested that A. tenuifolius releases phytotoxic compound(s).
Competitive effects of redroot pigweed (Amaranthus retroflexus) on the growth indices and yield of corn
Authors: SHEIBANY KAVEH , BAGHESTANI MEYBODI MOHAMMAD ALI , ATRI ALIREZA
Published: May 2009

The mutual effects of redroot pigweed (Amaranthus retroflexus) on corn (Zea mays) were evaluated in an experiment conducted in 2005 at the Iranian Plant Protection Research Institute at Qazvin, considering the different densities of redroot pigweed against four different corn densities. Redroot pigweed, at 0, 35, 50, 65, and 80 plants m−1row−1, was arranged factorially with corn at four, five, six, and seven plants m−1row−1in a randomized complete block design. Crop–weed competition resulted in a reduction in the total dry matter, Leaf Area Index, and crop growth rate of corn. Furthermore, an increasing weed density ≤65 plants m−1row−1reduced the corn grain yield and biological yield. Overall, six corn plants m−1row−1was suggested as the optimum density of this crop in competition with redroot pigweed.
Impact of cropping systems on the weed seed banks in the northern Great Plains, USA
Authors: HARBUCK KRISTIN S.B. , MENALLED FABIAN D. , POLLNAC FREDRIC W.
Published: May 2009

Very little research has been done on weed seedbank communities in the northern Great Plains region of the USA. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the effects of management systems on the weed seed banks and to assess the relationship between the weed seed banks and the above‐ground weed communities. The seed banks were sampled along a range of areas of above‐ground weed diversity in organic and conventional spring wheat production fields near Big Sandy, Montana, over 2 years. Eight 1 m × 0.33 m areas were selected in each field to encompass a wide range of above‐ground weed diversity and soil cores were taken in each area to a depth of 20 cm and split in half at 10 cm. The number of seeds recovered from the top 10 cm of soil and the 10–20 cm depth were significantly affected by the sampling year and an interaction between the cropping system and the sampling year. The year was the only significant predictor affecting the weed seedbank diversity at both depths. A significant interaction between the management system and the year observed at the 10–20 cm sampling depth reflected the higher rate of decrease in diversity occurring between 2005 and 2006 in the conventionally managed fields compared with the organic fields. A multivariate ordination indicated that, although the year played a significant role in determining the weed seedbank communities, the management system had a role only during 2006. We failed to detect strong correlations between the above‐ground and underground weed communities. The results of this study suggest that, in the studied region, yearly fluctuations in environmental factors have significant impacts on the weed seed banks.
Identification and activity of ethyl gallate as an antimicrobial compound produced by Geranium carolinianum
Authors: OOSHIRO ATSUSHI , HIRADATE SYUNTARO , KAWANO SHINJI , TAKUSHI TETSUYA , FUJII YOSHIHARU , NATSUME MASAHIRO , ABE HIROSHI
Published: May 2009

We isolated an antimicrobial compound from the aerial tissue of Geranium carolinianum and identified it as ethyl 3, 4, 5‐trihydroxy benzoate (ethyl gallate) by 1H‐NMR and 13C‐NMR and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. The antimicrobial activity of ethyl gallate against three potato pathogens was assayed by the paper disk method. The activity against Ralstonia solanacerum, Streptomyces scabies, and Streptomyces acidiscabies was observed at concentrations >200, >300, and >300 µg disk−1, respectively. These results suggest that the antimicrobial activity of Geranium carolinianum against soil‐borne plant disease pathogens is partly related to ethyl gallate.
Proper adjuvant selection to enhance the activity of triclopyr combined with metsulfuron on the control of Hedyotis verticillata
Authors: TSE‐SENG CHUAH , KABEN ANNE MARIE , THYE‐SAN CHA
Published: May 2009

A study was conducted to evaluate the combined activity of a tank mixture of triclopyr plus metsulfuron with non‐ionic surfactant (NIS), crop oil concentrate (COC), and organosilicon (OS) adjuvants on the control of Hedyotis verticillata under glasshouse and field conditions. The results of both the glasshouse and field experiments showed that 160 g ai ha−1 triclopyr plus 0.2 g ai ha−1 metsulfuron and 320 g ai ha−1 triclopyr plus 0.4 g ai ha−1 metsulfuron, with the addition of 0.25% NIS, 0.05% COC, or 0.05% OS, were effective in controlling H. verticillata. A comparison of the cost revealed that the most cost‐effective combination for controlling H. verticillata is 160 g ai ha−1 triclopyr plus 0.2 g ai ha−1 metsulfuron combined with 0.25% NIS.
Relationship Investment and Channel Performance: An Analysis of Mediating Forces
Authors: Luo Yadong , Liu Yi , Xue Jiaqi
Published: May 2009

abstract

This study explores how relationship‐specific investment (RSI) enhances interfirm cooperation in buyer–supplier partnerships in an emerging market. Building upon the logic of economic sociology, we argue that the contribution of RSI to the success in buyer–supplier partnerships will be mediated by reduced opportunism and reduced conflict and by heightened commitment and knowledge sharing. Our survey of 216 paired distributors (buyers) and manufacturers (suppliers) in China generally supports this argument, leading to a conclusion that RSI is not a direct performance propeller but an important builder of relational infrastructure in which mid‐range processes are nourished. Theoretical implications in strategic management and supply chain management research are highlighted.
‘I or we’: Family socialization values in a national probability sample in Taiwan
Authors: Lu Luo
Published: May 2009

The aim of the present secondary data analysis was to explore antecedents and consequences of family socialization values emphasizing independence or interdependence, using a Taiwanese national probability sample. Analysis of variance revealed that those who were male, older and less educated emphasized greater interdependence values. In contrast, those who were younger, with higher social status and urban residents emphasized greater independence values. Multiple regression analysis further revealed that valuing interdependence was related to preferring a greater number of offspring, a higher endorsement of filial piety, greater marital and life satisfaction. Finally, in this national sample, endorsement on independence and interdependence values was equivalent.
Linking family dysfunction to suicidal ideation: Mediating roles of self‐views and world‐views
Authors: Chen Sylvia Xiaohua , Wu Wesley C. H. , Bond Michael Harris
Published: May 2009

Research on suicide has documented various factors predicting suicidal ideation. The present study focused on the pathways emanating from one of the external, environmental forces (i.e. family dysfunction) through internal responses (beliefs about oneself and about the world), to suicidal ideation among Hong Kong Chinese. Using structural equation modelling, we tested the mediating roles of depressive self‐views (including stress perception, depressive cognition and negative self‐esteem) as well as two dimensions of social axioms (social cynicism and negative reward for application). Multi‐group analysis showed that the mediation model was invariant across both males and females. Being socialized into a problematic family of origin affected multiple aspects of one's assessments of both oneself and one's world which, in turn, lead to greater suicidal ideation. Our findings provide important implications for assessing suicidal risk and guiding interventions in clinical treatment.
Knowledge Management and Balanced Scorecard Outcomes: Exploring the Importance of Interpretation, Learning and Internationality
Authors: Gonzalez‐Padron Tracy L. , Chabowski Brian R. , Hult G. Tomas M. , Ketchen David J.
Published: May 2009

The topics of shared interpretation, organizational learning and firm internationalization have been studied extensively. Though considered important factors that shape the international competitive landscape, research synthesizing these interrelated areas has been limited to date. We use the balanced scorecard as a framework for assessing how organizational learning and sensemaking influence actions relating to a global marketing strategy and subsequent financial performance. Using data from 169 multinational corporations, findings indicate that a specific set of knowledge activities is related to balanced scorecard outcomes (e.g. customer performance, innovation and learning performance, and internal process performance). The hypothesized importance of customer performance is confirmed as the only balanced scorecard outcome significantly related to financial performance. A post hoc analysis revealed further insights for future research opportunities. Overall, these results suggest that firms can improve their competitive position by emphasizing shared interpretation within the organization and including balanced scorecard elements when assessing performance.
Informality and Formality in Medium‐sized Companies: Contestation and Synchronization
Authors: Marlow Susan , Taylor Scott , Thompson Amanda
Published: May 2009

Accounts of managerial practice in small and medium‐sized firms frequently draw upon notions of formality and informality. In this paper, we explore the relationship between these concepts through an analysis of managerial approaches to employment relations practice in six growing, medium‐sized organizations. Drawing on recent conceptual work on informality and formality, we argue that the use of the terms in previous analyses tends to neglect the co‐dependency of both the concepts and managerial approaches to the employment relationship. We present an alternative conceptualization of formalization and informalization processes that emphasizes synchronization through interactional practices. Through this analysis, we suggest that debate in this area can be reframed through thinking of informality and formality as a dualism rather than a dichotomy, and challenge the notion that small firms must, should or inevitably do move from informality to formality. From this, we construct an inclusive model of formality and informality that better reflects practice and enables further analytical development.
Bias in request for medical care and impact on outcome during office and non‐office hours in stroke patients
Authors: Jauss M. , Oertel W. , Allendoerfer J. , Misselwitz B. , Hamer H.
Published: May 2009

Background and purpose:  We compared characteristics and treatment success of ischaemic stroke patients admitted during daytime on working days (office hours) with patients admitted on weekend or nighttime (non‐office hours) to test if differences in presentation or restraints of medical care during non‐office hours determine outcome in stroke patients.

Methods:  We analyzed a prospective stroke registry and grouped patients according to admission on office hours and non‐office hours. Clinical state on admission, risk factors, sociodemographic items, complications, place of discharge, and clinical state on discharge were recorded.

Results:  A total of 37 396 stroke patients were evaluated. Onset–admission time on Monday was significantly elevated and on weekend significantly reduced. Number of patients with treatment success did not differ between patient groups whilst mortality within 7 days, proportion of embolic stroke, overall mortality and rate of complications where higher in patients admitted during non‐office hours, rate of thrombolytic treatment was significantly higher during non‐office hours. After adjustment for clinical state and admission latency, risk for severe outcome or death was independent from time of admission.

Conclusion:  Considering the fact that stroke patients admitted during non‐office hours were in more severe clinical condition we found no differences in outcome. Fear of impaired access to sophisticated treatment options during non‐office hours could be dispelled by the fact, that rate of thrombolytic treatment was even higher during night and weekend. Therefore, our data do not confirm a weekend effect or night effect on stroke treatment. Delay in request of medical care of mildly affected patients that suffer from stroke on weekends confirms need for educational efforts.
Cutaneous accumulation of abnormal polyglutamine proteins of patients with dentatorubral‐pallidoluysian atrophy
Authors: Ohta M. , Okuyama R. , Ogawa E. , Kisu K. , Sato H. , Aoki M. , Aiba S.
Published: May 2009

Background and purpose:  Dentatorubral‐pallidoluysian atrophy (DRPLA) is a hereditary spinocerebellar degeneration caused by expansion of a trinucleotide CAG repeat encoding a polyglutamine tract in a disease protein atrophin‐1. The clinical features include ataxia, choreoathetosis, and dementia, which result from neural degeneration caused by the mutant atrophin‐1.

Methods:  We performed skin biopsy in two patients with DRPLA.

Results:  We found multiple clear cells in the epidermis, which were positive for proteins containing an expanded polyglutamine stretches. The clear cells were p63 (+), S‐100 (−), and cytokeratin 20 (−), showing that they were keratinocytes. Negative or weak signals of pan‐cytokeratin were consistent with the finding of decreased tonofilaments at the electron microscopic level.

Conclusions:  The presence of clear keratincoytes showed that the mutant proteins interfered in cellular functions not only in neural cells but also in keratinocytes. The skin is accessible by biopsy, making it important in the diagnosis. Furthermore, the polyglutamine staining in the skin may be useful for evaluation of therapeutic modalities for DRPLA and other polyglutamine diseases.
Seasonal and annual variation in diets of Macaroni (Eudyptes chrysolophus chrysolophus) and Southern rockhopper (E. chrysocome chrysocome) penguins at sub‐Antarctic Marion Island
Authors: Brown C. R. , Klages N. T.
Published: May 2009

The diets of adult Macaroni penguins Eudyptes chrysolophus chrysolophus and Southern rockhopper penguins E. chrysocome chrysocome were analysed quantitatively at Marion Island, southern Indian Ocean, throughout two successive chick‐rearing seasons. The diets were broadly similar. Crustaceans were the predominant prey type comprising, overall, 90% by mass and 98% by numbers in Macaroni penguins and 96% by mass and 99% by numbers in rockhopper penguins. Nauticaris marionis was the predominant crustacean eaten by both penguin species in 1983–84, but Euphausia vallentini and Thysanoessa vicina predominated in 1984–85. Themisto gaudichaudii was present in appreciable numbers only in Macaroni penguins. Fish was not found in measurable quantities in either species in 1983–84, but contributed 5% and 4% of the mass of the diet in Macaroni and rockhopper penguins, respectively, when calculated in terms of the original biomass of food ingested. In 1984–85, however, fish comprised 10% and 6% of observed mass and c. 25% and 14% of original biomass ingested in Macaroni and rockhopper penguins, respectively. Pelagic myctophids, predominantly Krefftichthys anderssoni, Protomyctophum tenisoni and P. normani between 0·01 and 8·3 g, were the most commonly identified fish prey, but Macaroni penguins took an appreciable number of Electrona carlsbergi in 1983–84. Cephalopods made up between 1 % and 3% of the diet by mass in both penguin species and between 5% and 13% of original biomass ingested. Predominant cephalopods eaten were Kondakovia longimana and an unidentified octopus species. The relative proportions of each prey type change throughout chick‐rearing, with pelagic fish and cephalopods comprising a larger proportion later in the season when the penguins were assumed to be foraging farther from their breeding sites. Dietary segregation of the two species appears to be related to the difference in the timing of the breeding season, which begins three to four weeks earlier in Macaroni penguins.