bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Connectivity of the Creative Industries in North East England — The Problems of Physical and Relational Distance
Authors: Swords Jon , Wray Felicity
Published: August 2010

The creative industries are seen as a key part of economic development policy for national and regional policymakers. This research adopts a relational approach to examine the spatialities and networks of connections that workers in the North East of England's creative industries forge and maintain over space. Based on a questionnaire survey and interviews, our findings reveal a set of industries that are isolated from the major hubs of creativity outside the region and display a regionally bounded set of working and engagement practices. Numerous reasons underpinning this isolation are outlined, which are generated, in part, by both physical and relational distance to other agents in similar sectors. We also examine a group of highly mobile creative workers whose working practices and previous experience outside the North East allows them to overcome barriers faced by their counterparts. The paper concludes by calling for further comparative research to better understand the connectivity of regional creative industries that also avoids privileging London as the only source of discursive and financial influence. A series of recommendations for policy makers tasked with fostering the creative industries is outlined.
Engaging Families in the Choice of Social Marketing Strategies for Male Circumcision Services in Johannesburg, South Africa
Authors: Bridges John F. P. , Searle Sarah C. , Selck Frederic W. , Martinson Neil A.
Published: August 2010

Male circumcision (MC) prevents HIV acquisition in males, leading to calls for extensive implementation in sub-Saharan Africa. The widespread adoption of male circumcision will require social marketing targeted at various families and family members. The objective of this article is to demonstrate the utility of conjoint analysis in the choice of social marketing strategies tailored to different populations to promote male circumcision in Johannesburg, South Africa. Seven social marketing strategies for MC were identified through open-ended interviews ( n = 25). Preferences were assessed using conjoint analysis, implemented in a cross-sectional survey of randomly selected households. An oversampling strategy ensured balance between Blacks (34%), Coloreds (mixed-race; 32%), and Whites (34%). Respondents randomly received a block of 4 conjoint analysis tasks comparing 2 mutually exclusive and exhaustive subsets of the 7 strategies. Preferences were then evaluated using logistic regression stratified by ethnicity and family member. Whereas all strategies were attractive, television marketing, endorsement by church/school leaders, and a countrywide program were most preferred ( p < .0001). Stratified analyses identified heterogeneity, e.g., only Coloreds valued radio ( p < .0001) and a lasting presence in the community ( p < .0001). Within families, mothers and sons were most concordant for Blacks ( p < .05) and Coloreds ( p < .01), but fathers were most concordant with sons among Whites ( p <.05). Conjoint analysis provides valuable insight into preferences and can be used in the development of social marketing, especially when aimed at promoting behavioral change.
The Food Mail Program: “When Figs Fly” – Dispatching Access and Affordability to Healthy Food
Authors: Majid Kashef , Grier Sonya
Published: August 2010

Although Canada enjoys a fairly high standard of health and reports low rates of obesity and lifestyle diseases in comparison with the rest of the developed world, there is an increasing concern regarding the health of the Aboriginal population in the North. A significant percentage of Canada's Aboriginal communities are located in remote regions of the country and thus do not have access to locally grown nutritious foods. In an attempt to improve Aboriginal health, the Government of Canada has implemented the Food Mail Program which increases the affordability of, and access to, nutritious foods and promotes healthy eating among that population. The Food Mail Program attempts to increase access to healthy foods for those in isolated communities in the North by subsidizing the cost of food transport. To date, however, the program has produced mixed results. All stakeholders involved with the program agree that it does provide value and that it serves an important function. However, several changes must be made for the program to reach its objectives. The present case illustrates the significant challenges faced when attempting to change established consumption behaviors and the difficulties of focusing primarily on the supply side of the issue.
Assessment of individual anaerobic threshold and stroking parameters in swimmers aged 10–11 years
Authors: Fernandes Ricardo J. , Sousa Marisa , Pinheiro Armindo , Vilar Sonia , Colaço Paulo , Vilas‐Boas J. Paulo
Published: August 2010

The assessment of blood lactate concentration is considered essential for the physiological diagnosis of swimming performance. But for a more detailed and complete analysis of a swimmer's strengths and weaknesses, it is also important to examine his or her technical characteristics. However, few studies have combined physiological and technical evaluation in child swimmers. The aim of the present study was to assess the metabolic anaerobic threshold (blood lactate concentration and corresponding swimming velocity) of 10‐ to 11‐year‐old swimmers (n=15) using an individualized intermittent incremental protocol. Comparison was made with the traditionally used 4 mmol · l−1 lactate threshold. In addition, stroke rate, stroke length, and stroke index were measured throughout the experimental protocol for assessment of the anaerobic threshold. Each swimmer performed a front crawl 5×200 m test, in which the swimming velocity was controlled by an acoustic signal each 50 m. Blood samples were collected from the ear lobe (Lactate Pro, Arkay, Inc., Kyoto, Japan), at rest and after each step. Stroke rate was registered by a Seiko base 3 chronofrequencemeter; stroke length, stroke index, and velocity were calculated at the end of each 200 m. The individual anaerobic threshold occurred at 2.3 mmol · l−1 (s=0.59), and the corresponding velocity was 1.026 m · s−1 (s=0.053), much lower than the traditionally used 4 mmol · l−1 value (or even 3.5 mmol · l−1). The velocity corresponding to 4 mmol · l−1 and 3.5 mmol · l−1 was 1.081 m · s−1 (s=0.056) and 1.067 m · s−1 (s=0.055), respectively. Stroke rate increased and stroke length decreased throughout the incremental protocol (i.e. with increasing velocity). The stroke index showed a tendency to increase throughout the protocol, with a significant difference from the first to the second step. The velocity corresponding to 4 mmol · l−1 (and 3.5 mmol · l−1) does not represent the metabolic individual anaerobic threshold in trained swimmers, independently of their age, and age‐group swimmers prefer to increase their velocity through an increase in stroke rate. Thus, given the importance of developing swimming technique in age‐group swimmers, coaches should implement the lengthening of swimmers' stroke cycles in their training practice routines, so that they limit the effects of reduced stroke length when velocity increases.
Inferences for Joint Modelling of Repeated Ordinal Scores and Time to Event Data
Authors: Chakraborty Arindom , Das Kalyan
Published: August 2010

In clinical trials and other follow‐up studies, it is natural that a response variable is repeatedly measured during follow‐up and the occurrence of some key event is also monitored. There has been a considerable study on the joint modelling these measures together with information on covariates. But most of the studies are related to continuous outcomes. In many situations instead of observing continuous outcomes, repeated ordinal outcomes are recorded over time. The joint modelling of such serial outcomes and the time to event data then becomes a bit complicated. In this article we have attempted to analyse such models through a latent variable model. In view of the longitudinal variation on the ordinal outcome measure, it is desirable to account for the dependence between ordered categorical responses and survival time for different causes due to unobserved factors. A flexible Monte Carlo EM (MCEM) method based on exact likelihood is proposed that can simultaneously handle the longitudinal ordinal data and also the censored time to event data. A computationally more efficient MCEM method based on approximation of the likelihood is also proposed. The method is applied to a number of ordinal scores and survival data from trials of a treatment for children suffering from Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Finally, a simulation study is conducted to examine the finite sample properties of the proposed estimators in the joint model under two different methods.
A Combined1H Nuclear Magnetic Resonance and Electrospray Ionization–Mass Spectrometry Analysis to Understand the Basal Metabolism of Plant-PathogenicFusariumspp.
Authors: Lowe Rohan G. T. , Allwood J. William , Galster Aimee M. , Urban Martin , Daudi Arsalan , Canning Gail , Ward Jane L. , Beale Michael H. , Hammond-Kosack Kim E.
Published: August 2010

Many ascomycete Fusarium spp. are plant pathogens that cause disease on both cereal and noncereal hosts. Infection of wheat ears by Fusarium graminearum and F. culmorum typically results in bleaching and a subsequent reduction in grain yield. Also, a large proportion of the harvested grain can be spoiled when the colonizing Fusarium mycelia produce trichothecene mycotoxins, such as deoxynivalenol (DON). In this study, we have explored the intracellular polar metabolome of Fusarium spp. in both toxin-producing and nonproducing conditions in vitro. Four Fusarium spp., including nine well-characterized wild-type field isolates now used routinely in laboratory experimentation, were explored. A metabolic “triple-fingerprint” was recorded using1H nuclear magnetic resonance and direct-injection electrospray ionization–mass spectroscopy in both positive- and negative-ionization modes. These combined metabolomic analyses revealed that this technique is sufficient to resolve different wild-type isolates and different growth conditions. Principal components analysis was able to resolve the four species explored—F. graminearum, F. culmorum, F. pseudograminearum, and F. venenatum—as well as individual isolate differences from the same species. The external nutritional environment was found to have a far greater influence on the metabolome than the genotype of the organism. Conserved responses to DON-inducing medium were evident and included increased abundance of key compatible solutes, such as glycerol and mannitol. In addition, the concentration of γ-aminobutyric acid was elevated, indicating that the cellular nitrogen status may be affected by growth on DON-inducing medium.
Transstadial Transmission ofPythiuminBradysia impatiensand Lack of Adult Vectoring Capacity
Authors: Braun Sarah E. , Castrillo Louela A. , Sanderson John P. , Daughtrey Margery L. , Wraight Stephen P.
Published: August 2010

Fungus gnats have been shown to transmit a variety of plant-pathogenic fungi that produce aerial dispersal stages. However, few studies have examined potential interactions between fungus gnats and oomycetes, including Pythium spp. A series of laboratory experiments were conducted to determine whether fungus gnat adults are vectors of several common greenhouse Pythium spp., including Pythium aphanidermatum, P. irregulare, and P. ultimum. An additional objective was to determine whether P. aphanidermatum can be maintained transstadially in the gut of a fungus gnat larva through the pupal stadium to be transmitted by the subsequent adult. Adult fungus gnats did not pick up infectious Pythium propagules from diseased plants and transmit them to healthy plants in any experiment. Species-specific primers and a probe for real-time polymerase chain reaction were developed to detect the presence of P. aphanidermatum DNA in fungus gnat tissue samples. P. aphanidermatum DNA was detectable in the larval and pupal stages; however, none was detected in adult fungus gnats. These results are in agreement with previous studies that have suggested that adult fungus gnats are unlikely vectors of Pythium spp.
Redox Regulation of the NPR1-TGA1 System of Arabidopsis thaliana by Nitric Oxide
Authors: Lindermayr Christian , Sell Simone , Müller Bernd , Leister Dario , Durner Jörg
Published: August 2010

The role of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species in local and systemic defense reactions is well documented. NPR1 and TGA1 are key redox-controlled regulators of systemic acquired resistance in plants. NPR1 monomers interact with the reduced form of TGA1, which targets the activation sequence-1 (as-1) element of the promoter region of defense proteins. Here, we report the effect of the physiological nitric oxide donor S-nitrosoglutathione on the NPR1/TGA1 regulation system in Arabidopsis thaliana. Using the biotin switch method, we demonstrate that both NPR1 and TGA1 are S-nitrosylated after treatment with S-nitrosoglutathione. Mass spectrometry analyses revealed that the Cys residues 260 and 266 of TGA1 are S-nitrosylated and S-glutathionylated even at GSNO concentrations in the low micromolar range. Furthermore, we showed that S-nitrosoglutathione protects TGA1 from oxygen-mediated modifications and enhances the DNA binding activity of TGA1 to the as-1 element in the presence of NPR1. In addition, we observed that the translocation of NPR1 into the nucleus is promoted by nitric oxide. Taken together, our results suggest that nitric oxide is a redox regulator of the NPR1/TGA1 system and that they underline the importance of nitric oxide in the plant defense response.
Recrystallization of Cu–In–S thin films studiedin situby energy-dispersive X-ray diffraction
Authors: Rodriguez-Alvarez Humberto , Mainz Roland , Marsen Björn , Abou-Ras Daniel , Schock Hans Werner
Published: August 2010

The recrystallization of Cu–In–S thin films has been monitored in real time by means of synchrotron-based energy-dispersive X-ray diffraction. To trigger recrystallization, nanocrystalline Cu–In–S layers with [Cu]/[In] < 1 were covered with layers of CuS or pure Cu, so that the overall ratio [Cu]/[In] > 1. The bilayer films were heated to 773 K and the evolution of the microstructure was monitoredin situ viadiffraction spectra. In the first step of the analysis, the diffraction data were used to identify solid-state phase transitions as a function of temperature. In a further step, single-line profile analysis of the 112 CuInS2reflection was used to study grain growth in this material system. The recrystallization was investigated under two sulfur pressure conditions and for different [Cu]/[In] ratios. The recrystallization is composed of three steps: consumption of the CuIn5S8phase, grain growth, and a transition from the Cu–Au-type to the chalcopyrite-type structure of CuInS2. Increasing the sulfur pressure during heating systematically reduces the temperature at which grain growth sets in. Various paths to control the recrystallization of Cu–In–S thin films are proposed.
Nanovolume optimization of protein crystal growth using the microcapillary protein crystallization system
Authors: Gerdts Cory J. , Stahl Glenn L. , Napuli Alberto , Staker Bart , Abendroth Jan , Edwards Thomas E. , Myler Peter , Van Voorhis Wesley , Nollert Peter , Stewart Lance J.
Published: August 2010

The Microcapillary Protein Crystallization System (MPCS) is a microfluidic, plug-based crystallization technology that generates X-ray diffraction-ready protein crystals in nanolitre volumes. In this study, 28 out of 29 (93%) proteins crystallized by traditional vapor diffusion experiments were successfully crystallized by chemical gradient optimization experiments using the MPCS technology. In total, 90 out of 120 (75%) protein/precipitant combinations leading to initial crystal hits from vapor diffusion experiments were successfully crystallized using MPCS technology. Many of the resulting crystals produced high-quality X-ray diffraction data, and six novel protein structures that were derived from crystals harvested from MPCS CrystalCards are reported.
Hands and Knees Posture in Late Pregnancy or Labour for Fetal Malposition  (Lateral or Posterior)
Authors: Hofmeyr G.J. , Kulier R.
Published: August 2010

Background:  Lateral and posterior position of the baby's head (the back of the baby's head facing to the side or the mother's back) may be associated with more painful, prolonged or obstructed labour and difficult delivery. It is possible that certain positions adopted by the mother may influence the baby's position.

Objectives:  The objective of this review is to assess the effects of adopting a hands and knees maternal posture in late pregnancy or during labour when the presenting part of the fetus is in a lateral or posterior position, compared with no intervention.

Search strategy:  We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group Trials Register (November 2004) and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (The Cochrane Library, Issue 4, 2004).

Selection criteria:  Randomised trials of hands and knees maternal posture compared to other postures or controls.

Data collection and analysis:  Both review authors assessed trial eligibility and quality.

Main results:  Two trials of hands and knees posture during pregnancy were included. In one trial involving 100 women, four different postures (four groups of 20 women) were combined for the comparison with the control group of 20 women. Lateral or posterior position of the presenting part of the fetus was less likely to persist following 10 minutes in the hands and knees position compared to a sitting position (one trial, 100 women, relative risk (RR) 0.25, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.17 to 0.37). In a second trial including 2547 women, advice to assume the hands and knees posture for 10 minutes twice daily in the last weeks of pregnancy had no effect on the baby's position at delivery or any of the other pregnancy outcomes measured. No trials of hands and knees posture during labour were included.

Authors’ conclusions:  Use of hands and knees position for 10 minutes twice daily to correct occipitoposterior position of the fetus in late pregnancy cannot be recommended as an intervention. This is not to suggest that women should not adopt this position if they find it comfortable. The use of this position during labour has not been addressed in this review. In view of the promising short‐term effects of the technique and its simplicity, further trials are justified to determine whether encouraging the use of hands and knees posture during rather than before labour, has any effect on substantive outcomes.
The Impact of Parity on Course of Labor in a Contemporary Population
Authors: Vahratian Anjel , Hoffman Matthew K. , Troendle James F. , Zhang Jun
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  Background:
Few studies have examined in depth the labor progression of multiparas to determine if there is any additional impact of being parous beyond the first birth. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of parity on labor progression in contemporary obstetric practice. Methods:Our sample consisted of all low‐risk women who delivered a term, live‐born infant from January 2002 to March 2004 at a single institution in Delaware, United States (n = 5,589). The median duration of labor by each centimeter of cervical dilation was computed for parity = 0 (n = 2,645); parity = 1 (n = 1,839); parity = 2 (n = 750); and parity = 3 + (n = 355). Results:Multiparas had a significantly faster labor progression from 4 to 10 cm (293, 300, and 313 min, respectively, for parity = 1, parity = 2, and parity = 3 +), compared with nulliparas (383 min for parity = 0), as well as a shorter second stage of labor. However, no significant differences were found in duration of the active phase or the second stage of labor among multiparas. Conclusions:Additional childbearing appears to have no effect of on the progression of labor among multiparous subgroups. The difference in duration of the active phase between nulliparas and multiparas is substantially smaller in a contemporary population. (BIRTH 33:1 March 2006)
Temporal Changes in the Determinants of Breastfeeding Initiation
Authors: Scott Jane A. , Binns Colin W. , Graham Kathleen I. , Oddy Wendy H.
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  Background:
Regular identification of factors that predict a woman's infant feeding choice is important so that breastfeeding promotion interventions can be targeted at those women least likely to breastfeed. The objective of this study was to compare determinants of breastfeeding at discharge from hospital in 2002/2003 with those reported for 1992/1993.
Methods:
Women participating in two longitudinal infant feeding studies in Perth, Australia, completed a baseline questionnaire just before, or shortly after, discharge from hospital. Data collected included infant feeding method and socio‐demographic, biomedical, and psychosocial factors known, or suspected, to be related to the initiation of breastfeeding. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify independent predictors of “any” and “exclusive” breastfeeding at hospital discharge in both studies.
Results:
Although maternal age, level of education, and family income were independent predictors of breastfeeding at hospital discharge in the first study, no association was found between these factors and breastfeeding at hospital discharge in the second study. In both studies, a woman who perceived her husband to prefer breastfeeding was significantly more likely to leave hospital breastfeeding, and to be exclusively breastfeeding, than a woman who perceived her husband to prefer formula feeding. The strongest predictor in both studies for a woman to not be exclusively breastfeeding at hospital discharge was having an infant who had been admitted to the special care nursery after delivery.
Conclusions:
Given the importance of psychosocial factors to breastfeeding initiation, interventions that aim to increase breastfeeding initiation rates should be targeted on the basis of parental attitudes to breastfeeding rather than on sociodemographic factors. Similarly, interventions that aim to increase exclusive breastfeeding should address biomedical factors that hinder a woman's ability to establish exclusive breastfeeding. (BIRTH 33:1 March 2006)
Pregnant Women's Responses to Information About an Increased Risk of Carrying a Baby with Down Syndrome
Authors: Georgsson Öhman Susanne , Saltvedt Sissel , Waldenström Ulla , Grunewald Charlotta , Olin‐Lauritzen Sonja
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  Background:
Fetal screening for Down syndrome by an ultrasound examination, including measurement of fetal nuchal translucency, at 12 to14 weeks’ gestation is presently being evaluated in a Swedish randomized controlled trial. Women at high risk were offered an amniocentesis to obtain a definite diagnosis. The aim of this study was to explore women's reactions and responses to information about being at high risk after the scan, with a special focus on reactions to a false positive test. Method:Interviews were conducted with 24 women within 1 week after the scan, in midpregnancy, and 2 months after the birth. The interviews were analyzed qualitatively. Down syndrome was confirmed in 4 women, who chose to terminate the pregnancy. The remaining 20 women had a false positive test. Results:For the majority, the risk information caused strong reactions of anxiety and worries about the future. A typical way for women to cope was to “withhold” the pregnancy, to take a “timeout,” and try to live as if they were not pregnant any longer. Some weeks later, when the women received normal results from the chromosome analysis, they resumed being pregnant. Six women ages more than 35 years who had a risk score lower than their age‐related risk did not express similarly strong reactions. Two months after the birth of a healthy baby, most stated they would undergo the same procedure in a subsequent pregnancy. One woman still suffered from the experience when interviewed at 2 months after the birth, and another said she regretted participating in the fetal screening program. Conclusions:A false positive test of fetal screening for Down syndrome by ultrasound examination may cause strong reactions of anxiety and even rejection of the pregnancy. The prevalence of such reactions and possible long‐term effects need further investigation. (BIRTH 33:1 March 2006)
T‐DNA tagging reveals a novel cDNA triggering cytokinin‐ and auxin‐independent protoplast division
Authors: Miklashevichs Edvins , Czaja Inge , Cordeiro Alexandra , Prinsen Els , Schell Jeff , Walden Richard
Published: August 2010

Activation T‐DNA tagging was used to generate four cytokinin‐independent (cyi1–4) tobacco cell lines. Plants regenerated from the mutant lines displayed similar phenotypes: reduced apical dominance, poorly developed roots, delayed growth and flowering, and male and female sterility. Tissue culture experiments demonstrated that the mutations in the different lines uncouple cell proliferation from the effects of both cytokinin and auxin. No significant increase of cytokinin or auxin was found in transgenic calli in comparison with untransformed callus. The functional plant sequence tagged in one of the mutant lines, cyi1, was used to isolate an active cDNA, cyi1a, that was able to trigger cytokinin‐ and auxin‐independent protoplast division. Northern analysis shows that the transcript corresponding to cyi1a accumulates to high levels in the untransformed protoplasts shortly before the onset of cell division, and that these levels decrease when protoplasts reach maximum rates of cell division. A small putative open reading frame, starting with the first ATG in cyi1a and encoding a 22 amino acid peptide, has the same activity in tobacco protoplasts as the whole cDNA. This activity is destroyed by a frame shift mutation. Apparently cyi1a encodes a peptide which participates in the events downstream of a joint point of cytokinin and auxin action leading to cell division.
Movement and subcellular localization of a tobamovirus in Arabidopsis
Authors: Lartey Robert , Ghoshroy Soumitra , Ho Joe , Citovsky Vitaly
Published: August 2010

Tobamoviruses represent a well‐characterized system used to examine viral infection, whereas Arabidopsis is a choice plant for most genetic experiments. It would be useful to combine both approaches into one experimental system for virus‐plant interaction. Most tobamoviruses, however, are not pathogenic in Arabidopsis. Here, we describe infection of Arabidopsis by a recently discovered crucifer‐infecting turnip vein clearing tobamovirus (TVCV). Using this system, we determined patterns and kinetics of viral local and systemic movement within Arabidopsis plants. Localization studies showed that the virus infects both vegetative and reproductive plant tissues. However, there may be a transport barrier between the seed coat and the embryo which virions cannot cross, preventing seed transmission of TVCV. The ability to move both locally and systemically in Arabidopsis, causing mild and fast‐developing symptoms but allowing survival and fertility of the infected plants, distinguish TVCV infection of Arabidopsis as a model system to study virus‐plant interaction.
Differential expression of two P5CS genes controlling proline accumulation during salt‐stress requires ABA and is regulated by ABA1, ABI1 and AXR2 in Arabidopsis
Authors: Strizhov Nicolai , Ábrahám Edit , Ökrész László , Blickling Stefan , Zilberstein Aviah , Schell Jeff , Koncz Csaba , Szabados László
Published: August 2010

Proline is a common compatible osmolyte in higher plants. Proline accumulation in response to water stress and salinity is preceded by a rapid increase of the mRNA level of Δ1‐pyrroline‐5‐carboxylate synthase (P5CS) controlling the rate‐limiting step of glutamate‐derived proline biosynthesis. P5CS is encoded by two differentially regulated genes in Arabidopsis. Gene AtP5CS1 mapped to chromosome 2‐78.5 is expressed in most plant organs, but silent in dividing cells. Gene AtP5CS2 located close to marker m457 on chromosome 3–101.3 contributes 20–40% of total P5CS mRNA in plant tissues, but is solely responsible for the synthesis of abundant P5CS mRNA in rapidly dividing cell cultures. Accumulation of AtP5CS transcripts is regulated in a tissue specific manner and inducible by drought, salinity, ABA, and to a lesser extent by auxin. Induction of AtP5CS1 mRNA accumulation in salt‐treated seedlings involves an immediate early transcriptional response regulated by ABA signalling that is not inhibited by cycloheximide, but abolished by the deficiency of ABA biosynthesis in the aba1 Arabidopsis mutant. However, inhibition of protein synthesis by cycloheximide prevents the induction of AtP5CS2 mRNA accumulation, and blocks further increase of AtP5CS1 mRNA levels during the second, slow phase of salt‐induction. Mutations abi1 and axr2, affecting ABA‐perception in Arabidopsis, reduce the accumulation of both AtP5CS mRNAs during salt‐stress, whereas ABA‐signalling functions defined by the abi2 and abi3 mutations have no effect on salt‐induction of the AtP5CS genes.
Sites of rDNA transcription are widely dispersed through the nucleolus in Pisum sativum and can comprise single genes
Authors: Thompson W.F. , Beven A.F. , Wells B. , Shaw P.J.
Published: August 2010

Incorporation by RNA polymerases of BrUTP into both plant root tissue and isolated plant nuclei as a method for localization of the sites of transcription has been used. In this paper pea root tissue was used, and under the conditions employed, nearly all the incorporation occurs in the nucleolus, and thus must be catalysed by RNA polymerase I. Immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy shows that incorporation occurs in a pattern consisting of many small foci distributed widely through the dense fibrillar component of the nucleoli. Immunogold labelling using silver‐enhanced Nanogold probe at the electron microscopic level confirms the sites of transcription as small foci approximately 200nm in diameter. Simultaneous fluorescence in situ hybridization with a probe to the external transcribed spacer (ETS) region of the pre‐rRNA shows that the structures revealed by this probe and the BrUTP immunofluorescence labelling are very similar. A probe to the transcribed portion of the rDNA (18S) also shows a good correlation to the sites of BrUTP incorporation within the nucleolus. On the other hand a probe to the non‐transcribed intergenic spacer region (NTS) shows very little coincidence with the sites of BrUTP incorporation, and double fluorescence in situ labelling with both 18S and NTS probes confirms this difference in localization. These results suggest that most BrUTP foci correspond to single transcribed genes.
Development of Arabidopsis thaliana leaves at low temperatures releases the suppression of photosynthesis and photosynthetic gene expression despite the accumulation of soluble carbohydrates
Authors: Strand Åsa , Hurry Vaughan , Gustafsson Petter , Gardeström Per
Published: August 2010

Arabidopsis thaliana plants were grown at 23°C and changes in carbohydrate metabolism, photosynthesis and photosynthetic gene expression were studied after the plants were shifted to 5°C. The responses of leaves shifted to 5°C after development at 23°C are compared to leaves that developed at 5°C. Shifting warm developed leaves to 5°C lead to a severe suppression of photosynthesis that correlated with a rapid and sustained accumulation of hexose phosphates and soluble sugars. Associated with the suppression of photosynthesis and the accumulation of soluble sugars was a reduction in the amount of transcript for genes encoding photosynthetic proteins (cab and rbcS). In contrast, leaves that developed at 5°C showed an increase in photosynthesis and control levels of photosynthetic gene expression. This recovery occurred even though leaves that developed at 5°C maintained large pools of soluble sugars. Leaves that developed at 5°C also showed a strong upregulation of the cytosolic pathway for soluble sugar synthesis but not of the chloroplastic pathway for starch synthesis. This was shown at the level of both enzyme activity and the amount of transcript. Thus, development of Arabidopsis leaves at 5°C resulted in metabolic changes that enabled them to produce and accumulate large soluble sugar pools without any associated suppression of photosynthesis or photosynthetic gene expression. These changes were also associated with enhanced freezing tolerance. We suggest that this reprogramming of carbohydrate metabolism associated with development at low temperature is essential to the development of full freezing tolerance and for winter survival of over‐wintering herbaceous annuals.
Epigenetic programming via histone methylation at WRKY53 controls leaf senescence in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Ay Nicole , Irmler Kristina , Fischer Andreas , Uhlemann Ria , Reuter Gunter , Humbeck Klaus
Published: August 2010

Leaf senescence, the final step of leaf development, involves extensive reprogramming of gene expression. Here, we show that these processes include discrete changes of epigenetic indexing, as well as global alterations in chromatin organization. During leaf senescence, the interphase nuclei show a decondensation of chromocenter heterochromatin, and changes in the nuclear distribution of the H3K4me2, H3K4me3, and the H3K27me2 and H3K27me3 histone modification marks that index active and inactive chromatin, respectively. Locus‐specific epigenetic indexing was studied at the WRKY53 key regulator of leaf senescence. During senescence, when the locus becomes activated, H3K4me2 and H3K4me3 are significantly increased at the 5′ end and at coding regions. Impairment of these processes is observed in plants overexpressing the SUVH2 histone methyltransferase, which causes ectopic heterochromatization. In these plants the transcriptional initiation of WRKY53 and of the senescence‐associated genes SIRK, SAG101, ANAC083, SAG12 and SAG24 is inhibited, resulting in a delay of leaf senescence. In SUVH2 overexpression plants, significant levels of H3K27me2 and H3K27me3 are detected at the 5′–end region of WRKY53, resulting in its transcriptional repression. Furthermore, SUVH2 overexpression inhibits senescence‐associated global changes in chromatin organization. Our data suggest that complex epigenetic processes control the senescence‐specific gene expression pattern.
The utilization of a Pacific salmon Oncorhynchus nerka subsidy by three populations of charr Salvelinus spp.
Authors: Denton K. P. , Rich H. B. , Moore J. W. , Quinn T. P.
Published: August 2010

The LF‐at‐age trajectories differentiated two populations of Dolly Varden charr Salvelinus malma and a population of Arctic charr Salvelinus alpinus from the eastern end of Iliamna Lake, Alaska. Salvelinus malma from the Pedro Bay ponds were the smallest for a given age, followed by Salvelinus alpinus from the lake, and S. malma from the Iliamna River were much larger. The utilization of a large sockeye salmon Oncorhynchus nerka subsidy by the three Salvelinus spp. populations was then investigated by comparing diet data and mixing model (MixSIR) outputs based on carbon and nitrogen stable isotopes. Stomach contents indicated that both S. malma populations fed on O. nerka products, especially eggs and larval Diptera that had scavenged O. nerka carcasses, whereas S. alpinus fed on a variety of prey items such as three‐spined sticklebacks Gasterosteus aculeatus and snails. Stable‐isotope analysis corroborated the diet data; the two S. malma populations incorporated more O. nerka‐derived nutrients into their tissues than did S. alpinus from the lake, although all populations showed substantial utilization of O. nerka‐derived resources. Salvelinus alpinus also seemed to be much more omnivorous, as shown by stable‐isotope mixing models, than the S. malma populations. The dramatic differences in growth rate between the two S. malma populations, despite similar trophic patterns, indicate that other important genetic or environmental factors affect their life history, including proximate temperature controls and ultimate predation pressures.
Mosquito allergy: Clinical features and natural course
Authors: KULTHANAN Kanokvalai , WONGKAMCHAI Sirichit , TRIWONGWARANAT Daranporn
Published: August 2010

Mosquito bite allergic reactions are due to sensitization to mosquito salivary proteins. The purpose of our study was to assess the clinical features of Thai patients with mosquito allergy, and to define the natural desensitization course. Seventy patients with mosquito allergy were enrolled. Most patients were female. Half of the patients had a personal history of atopy. The average age of onset of mosquito reaction was 5.7 years old (range 2–58). Four patients were in the desensitization phase in which clinical symptoms disappeared within 9.5 years (median). The common cutaneous lesions were erythematous papules (68.6%) and immediate wheals (67.1%). The most common area of involvement was the leg. Forty of 50 patients (80%) had positive skin prick testing to mosquito allergen (Culex quinquefasciatus) and 31 of 42 patients (73.8%) had positive immunoglobulin E antibodies against allergens in C. quinquefasciatus saliva proteins.
Plasma testosterone and sex hormone‐binding globulin concentrations and the risk of prostate cancer among Japanese men: A nested case‐control study
Authors: Sawada Norie , Iwasaki Motoki , Inoue Manami , Sasazuki Shizuka , Yamaji Taiki , Shimazu Taichi , Tsugane Shoichiro ,   for the Japan Public Health Center‐based Prospective Study Group
Published: August 2010

Sex hormones, particularly androgens, have been implicated in prostate carcinogenesis. Overall, however, prospective studies have reported no association between circulating levels of sex hormones and the risk of prostate cancer. However, despite the possible difference in the effects of hormones on prostate cancer risk by stage, age, body mass index (BMI) and isoflavones, evidence for these is sparse. Moreover, few studies have been conducted in Asian populations, who are relatively lean and have high isoflavone consumption. We examined the hypothesis that plasma concentrations of circulating testosterone and sex hormone‐binding globulin (SHBG) are associated with the risk of prostate cancer in a case‐control study nested in the Japan Public Health Center‐based Prospective Study. Concentrations of total testosterone and SHBG were measured in plasma samples from 201 patients with prostate cancer and 402 matched control participants, and concentrations of free testosterone were calculated. No overall association between the plasma levels of any hormone and total prostate cancer was observed. Odds ratios (95% confidence interval [CI]) in the highest versus lowest group were 0.71 (95% CI = 0.36–1.41, Ptrend = 0.43) for total testosterone, 0.70 (95% CI = 0.39–1.27, Ptrend = 0.08) for free testosterone and 1.38 (95% CI = 0.69–2.77, Ptrend = 0.23) for SHBG. When stratified by cancer stage, age, BMI and plasma isoflavone level, free testosterone was inversely associated with localized cancers and equol producers, while SHBG was associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer in younger men. In conclusion, in this nested case‐control study, concentrations of circulating total testosterone, free testosterone or SHBG were not strongly associated with a risk for total prostate cancer. (Cancer Sci 2010; 101: 2652–2657)
Appropriateness of therapy for fistulizing Crohn’s disease: findings from a national inflammatory bowel disease cohort
Authors: Pittet V. , Juillerat P. , Michetti P. , Vader J.‐P. , Burnand B. , Rogler G. , Beglinger C. , Seibold F. , Mottet C. , Felley C. , Gonvers J.‐J. , Froehlich F. ,   The Swiss IBD Cohort Study Group
Published: August 2010

Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2010; 32: 1007–1016

Background  About 30–50% of patients with Crohn’s disease (CD) develop fistulae, implying significant disease burden and complicated clinical management.

Aim  To assess appropriate use of therapy for fistulizing CD patients enrolled in the Swiss Inflammatory Bowel Disease Cohort using criteria developed by the European Panel on the Appropriateness of Crohn’s disease Therapy.

Methods  Specific questionnaires were used to gather information on disease and its management. We assessed appropriateness of therapy at enrolment for adult CD patients with one or several fistulae.

Results  Two hundred and eighty‐eight CD patients had fistulizing disease, of which 80% had complex fistulae and 32% currently had active draining fistulae. Mean age (s.d.) at diagnosis was 27 years (11), 51% males. Of the patients, 78% were judged as having globally an appropriate therapy, which was more often given for complex fistulae (87%) than for simple fistulae (67%). Antibiotics, azathioprine/MP, methotrexate and conservative surgery were almost always appropriate. Anti‐tumor necrosis factor α was considered globally appropriate (91%), although most often with an uncertain indication. The 5ASA compounds, steroids and aggressive surgery were most often inappropriate (84%, 58% and 86% respectively).

Conclusions  Formal appropriateness criteria for CD therapy were applied to a national cohort of IBD patients. For more than three‐quarters of the patients with fistulizing CD, therapy was globally appropriate.
A test of Tyler’s Line – response of chironomids to a pH gradient in Tasmania and their potential as a proxy to infer past changes in pH
Authors: REES ANDREW B. H. , CWYNAR LES C.
Published: August 2010

1. Tyler’s Line delimits two distinct limnological provinces that reflect differences in climate, geology and vegetation in Tasmania. Lakes west of Tyler’s Line are typically acidic and dystrophic with relatively shallow euphotic zones, whereas eastern lakes are circumneutral and oligotrophic or ultra‐oligotrophic, allowing deeper penetration of light. Consequently, Tyler’s Line defines a boundary where species assemblages change over a relatively short distance.

2. A survey of 48 Tasmanian lakes was undertaken to identify indicator taxa of the two limnological provinces and breakpoints along the pH gradient where shifts in taxa occur. Chironomidae (Diptera) were used because they are ideal candidates for lake classification.

3. Three independent methods (geographical position, piecewise linear regression, two‐way indicator species analysis) verified that chironomids accurately reflect the environmental variables defining Tyler’s Line at lake and catchment scales. Chironomid genera are often speciose, and members of the same genus can have markedly different responses to a given environmental variable. Although the types of taxa changed along the pH gradient, richness did not. This finding contrasts with many studies from the northern hemisphere but accords with other studies from Australia.

4. Models of pH, developed using both partial least squares and weighted averaging partial least squares, can be used to understand past natural variability of pH in Tasmania and to test hypotheses regarding the timing, magnitude and source of contamination in impacted aquatic ecosystems.
Stream geomorphology regulates the effects on periphyton of ecosystem engineering and nutrient enrichment by Pacific salmon
Authors: HOLTGRIEVE GORDON W. , SCHINDLER DANIEL E. , GOWELL CONRAD P. , RUFF CASEY P. , LISI PETER J.
Published: August 2010

1. Pacific salmon (Oncorhynchus spp.) returning to streams deliver substantial quantities of nutrients (nitrogen and phosphorus) that may stimulate primary production. Salmon can also affect the phytobenthos negatively via physical disturbance during nest excavation, a process that may counteract the positive effects of salmon‐derived nutrients on benthic algae. The ability of salmon to disturb benthic habitats may be a function of substratum particle size, and therefore, the geomorphology of streams could determine the net effect of salmon on benthic communities.

2. Based on surveys of 17 streams in southwest Alaska before the salmon run and during peak salmon density, we identified size thresholds for the disturbance of substratum particles by salmon and classified particles as vulnerable (<60 mm B‐axis), invulnerable (>110 mm) or transitional (61–110 mm). At the scale of individual rocks, algal biomass on vulnerable substrata decreased at peak spawning (relative to values before the run) as a power function of salmon density; transitional and invulnerable substrata showed no quantifiable pattern. However, invulnerable substrata in streams with more than 0.11 salmon m−2 showed net algal accrual, or relatively smaller declines in algal biomass, than vulnerable substrata, indicating that large rocks provide refuge for benthic algae from salmon disturbance.

3. We expected that streams with proportionally larger rocks would respond positively to salmon at the whole‐stream scale, after accounting for the relative abundance of rocks of different sizes within streams. Invulnerable rocks made up only 0–12% of the total substratum particle size distribution in salmon‐bearing streams, however, and algal accrual on invulnerable substrata did not outweigh the strong disturbance effects on the more spatially extensive vulnerable substrata. The change in whole‐stream benthic algal biomass among streams was negatively related to salmon density.

4. Stable isotopes of nitrogen (δ15N) were used to track nutrients from salmon into benthic biota. Periphyton δ15N on rocks of all size classes was higher at peak salmon spawning than before the salmon run, indicating the uptake of salmon‐derived nitrogen. Peak δ15N values were positively related to salmon abundance and followed a two‐isotope mixing relationship. The per cent of N from salmon in periphyton was also related to salmon density and was best explained by a saturating relationship. Spring δ15N was unrelated to salmon returns in the previous year, suggesting little annual carryover of salmon nutrients.
Apical surgery of a maxillary molar creating a maxillary sinus window using ultrasonics: a clinical case
Authors: García B. , Peñarrocha M. , Peñarrocha M. A. , Von Arx T.
Published: August 2010

García B, Peñarrocha M, Peñarrocha MA, von Arx T. Apical surgery of a maxillary molar creating a maxillary sinus window using ultrasonics: a clinical case. International Endodontic Journal, 43, 1054–1061, 2010.

Aim  To describe a method of carrying out apical surgery of a maxillary molar using ultrasonics to create a lateral sinus window into the maxillary sinus and an endoscope to enhance visibility during surgery.

Summary  A 37‐year‐old female patient presented with tenderness to percussion of the maxillary second right molar. Root canal treatment had been undertaken, and the tooth restored with a metal‐ceramic crown. Radiological examination revealed an apical radiolucency in close proximity to the maxillary sinus. Apical surgery of the molar was performed through the maxillary sinus, using ultrasonics for the osteotomy, creating a window in the lateral wall of the maxillary sinus. During surgery, the lining of the sinus was exposed and elevated without perforation. The root‐end was resected using a round tungsten carbide drill, and the root‐end cavity was prepared with ultrasonic retrotips. Root‐end filling was accomplished with MTA®. An endoscope was used to examine the cut root face, the prepared cavity and the root‐end filling. No intraoperative or postoperative complications were observed. At the 12‐month follow‐up, the tooth had no clinical signs or symptoms, and the radiograph demonstrated progressing resolution of the radiolucency.

Key learning points

 When conventional root canal retreatment cannot be performed or has failed, apical surgery may be considered, even in maxillary molars with roots in close proximity to the maxillary sinus.

 Ultrasonic sinus window preparation allows more control and can minimize perforation of the sinus membrane when compared with conventional rotary drilling techniques.

 The endoscope enhances visibility during endodontic surgery, thus improving the quality of the case.