bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Roseovarius mucosus sp. nov., a member of the Roseobacter clade with trace amounts of bacteriochlorophyll a
Authors: Biebl Hanno , Allgaier Martin , Lünsdorf Heinrich , Pukall Rüdiger , Tindall Brian J. , Wagner-Döbler Irene
Published: November 2005

Among a group of marine isolates that were found to be positive for genes of the bacterial photosynthetic reaction centre, a strain was selected for characterization that was phylogenetically close to the genus Roseovarius. The strain, designated DFL-24T, originated from a culture of Alexandrium ostenfeldii (dinoflagellate) and contained small amounts of bacteriochlorophyll a, corresponding to about 1 % of the amount found in intensely pigmented aerobic phototrophs such as Roseobacter litoralis. Cells were rods of 0·5–0·7×1·3–3·0 μm often with uneven ends, suggesting a budding mode of division. True motility was not observed. Electron micrographs of ultrathin sections revealed a Gram-negative cell-wall structure. Cultures did not grow without addition of sea salts and tolerated up to 10 % (w/v) sea-water salts. Acetate, butyrate, tricarboxylic acid cycle intermediates, glutamate and glycerol were used as growth substrates, but not glucose or fructose. Biotin, thiamine and nicotinic acid were required as growth factors. The DNA G+C content was 63 mol%. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis placed the strain within the Roseobacter lineage of the ‘Alphaproteobacteria’. Its closest phylogenetic neighbour was Roseovarius tolerans showing 96·4 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity. Based also on its physiological and biochemical characteristics, the strain is considered to represent a novel species of the genus Roseovarius, Roseovarius mucosus sp. nov. Strain DFL-24T (=DSM 17069T=NCIMB 14077T) is the type strain. The 16S rRNA gene sequence of DFL-24T was found to have a similarity of 99·7 % with an unidentified strain, 253-13 (=DSM 17070), which was likewise characterized and shown to constitute another strain of the species.
Alkalibacillus filiformis sp. nov., isolated from a mineral pool in Campania, Italy
Authors: Romano Ida , Lama Licia , Nicolaus Barbara , Gambacorta Agata , Giordano Assunta
Published: November 2005

A halo-alkaliphilic, Gram-positive, non-motile bacterium, designated strain 4AGT, was isolated from a mineral pool located in Malvizza, Campania, southern Italy. On the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, strain 4AGT was shown to belong to the genus Alkalibacillus within the phylum Firmicutes; its phylogenetic distance from recognized Alkalibacillus species was <95·0 %. Chemotaxonomic data (MK-7 as the major menaquinone; directly cross-linked meso-diaminopimelic acid in the cell wall; phosphatidylglycerol and diphosphatidylglycerol as major polar lipids; iso-C15 : 0, anteiso-C15 : 0 and iso-C17 : 0 as major fatty acids; and glycine betaine and glutamate as major compatible solutes) supported the affiliation of the strain to the genus Alkalibacillus. The results of DNA–DNA hybridization and physiological and biochemical tests allowed genotypic and phenotypic differentiation of strain 4AGT from the two recognized Alkalibacillus species. Strain 4AGT therefore represents a novel species, for which the name Alkalibacillus filiformis sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is 4AGT (=DSM 15448T=ATCC BAA-956T).
Isolation and characterization of methylotrophic methanogens from anoxic marine sediments in Skan Bay, Alaska: description of Methanococcoides alaskense sp. nov., and emended description of Methanosarcina baltica
Authors: Singh Neha , Kendall Melissa M. , Liu Yitai , Boone David R.
Published: November 2005

Three novel strains of methylotrophic methanogens were isolated from Skan Bay, Alaska, by using anaerobic cultivation techniques. The water was 65 m deep at the sampling site. Strains AK-4 (=OCM 774), AK-5T (=OCM 775T=DSM 17273T) and AK-9 (=OCM 793) were isolated from the sulfate-reducing zone of the sediments. Each of the strains was a non-motile coccus and occurred singly. Cells grew with trimethylamine as a catabolic substrate and strain AK-4 could also catabolize methanol. Yeast extract and trypticase peptones were not required for growth, but their addition to the culture medium slightly stimulated growth. Each of the strains grew at temperatures of 5–28 °C; they were slight halophiles and grew fastest in the neutral pH range. Analysis of the 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that strain AK-4 was most closely related to Methanosarcina baltica. DNA–DNA hybridization studies showed 88 % relatedness, suggesting that strain AK-4 represents a novel strain within this species. Strains AK-5T and AK-9 had identical 16S rRNA gene sequences that were most closely related to the sequence of Methanococcoides burtonii (99·8 % sequence similarity). DNA–DNA hybridization studies showed that strains AK-5T and AK-9 are members of the same species (88 % relatedness value), but strain AK-5T had a DNA–DNA relatedness value of only 55 % to Methanococcoides burtonii. This indicates that strains AK-5T and AK-9 should be considered as members of a novel species in the genus Methanococcoides. We propose the name Methanococcoides alaskense sp. nov., with strain AK-5T (=OCM 775T=DSM 17273T) as the type strain.
Halalkalicoccus tibetensis gen. nov., sp. nov., representing a novel genus of haloalkaliphilic archaea
Authors: Xue Yanfen , Fan Huapeng , Ventosa Antonio , Grant William D. , Jones Brian E. , Cowan Don A. , Ma Yanhe
Published: November 2005

A haloalkaliphilic archaeon (strain DS12T) isolated from Lake Zabuye, the Tibetan Plateau, China, was characterized to elucidate its taxonomy. The strain was aerobic, chemo-organotrophic, and grew optimally at 40 °C, pH 9·5–10·0 and 3·4 M NaCl. Cells of strain DS12Twere non-motile cocci and stained Gram-variable. The major polar lipids of strain DS12Twere diphytanyl and phytanyl-sesterterpanyl diether derivatives of phosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylglycerol phosphate methyl ester. No glycolipids were detected. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the strain formed a distinct lineage within the familyHalobacteriaceae. The low 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity values to its closest relatives (91·5–92·5 %) and its signature bases both suggest that the strain has no close affinity with any members of the familyHalobacteriaceaewith validly published names. Therefore, it is proposed that strain DS12T(=AS 1.3240T=JCM 11890T) represents the type strain of a novel species in a new genus,Halalkalicoccus tibetensisgen. nov., sp. nov.
Transcriptional up‐regulation of histamine receptor‐1 in epithelial, mucus and inflammatory cells in perennial allergic rhinitis
Authors: Dinh Q. T. , Cryer A. , Dinh S. , Peiser C. , Wu S. , Springer J. , Hamelmann E. , Klapp B. F. , Heppt W. , Fischer A.
Published: November 2005

BackgroundHistamine receptors play an important role in the pathogenesis of nasal allergy. Activation of histamine receptor 1 (H1R) and 2 (H2R) can cause allergic symptoms which can be blocked effectively by antihistamines. H1R and H2R transcript levels have been found to be up‐regulated in perennial – but not in seasonal – allergic rhinitis (AR). The present study aimed to explore H1R and H2R expression in complex tissues of the nasal mucosa of perennial allergic rhinitis (PAR).

MethodsTen patients with PAR and 13 non‐AR subjects were recruited for the study by medical history, physical examination and laboratory screening tests. In this study, we have analysed single cells dissected from the nasal mucosa biopsies by laser‐assisted microdissection. H1R mRNA expression was analysed in different cell types such as epithelial, endothelial, mucus and inflammatory cells isolated from the nasal mucosa of PAR in comparison with non‐AR subjects.

ResultsH1R mRNA gene expression level was significantly increased in the nasal mucosa of PAR in comparison with non‐AR (P<0.0001). H1R mRNA was significantly elevated in epithelial (P<0.001) and mucus cells (P<0.05) of PAR in comparison with non‐AR whereas H1R gene expression levels in endothelial cells between both groups were not changed (P=0.23). Interestingly, inflammatory cells in the nasal mucosa of PAR patients were also strongly expressed H1R mRNA (P<0.001).

ConclusionThe present study indicates that PAR alters the expression of H1R mRNA in epithelial, mucus and inflammatory cells of the nasal mucosa and but not in endothelial cells. Therefore, epithelial, mucus and inflammatory cells may play an important role in histamine‐mediated allergic airway inflammation in PAR.
Allergic rhinitis with or without concomitant asthma: difference in perception of dyspnoea and levels of fractional exhaled nitric oxide
Authors: Aronsson D. , Tufvesson E. , Bjermer L.
Published: November 2005

Background/aim
Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a risk factor for developing clinical asthma. Moreover, AR is often associated with bronchial hyper‐responsiveness (BHR). The aim of the present study was to investigate whether patients with AR and asthma differed from AR with or without BHR in degree of perception of dyspnoea and airway inflammation, measured as fractionated exhaled nitric oxide (NO).

Materials
Twenty‐nine patients with seasonal AR (timothy) were investigated with metacholine challenge test. Fourteen healthy non‐reactive subjects served as controls.

Methods
(1) Metacholine challenge test, cut‐off value forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) PD20 2000 μg. Slope value for metacholine was calculated as %fall in FEV1/mol metacholine. Dyspnoea during challenge was measured with a 10‐graded modified Borg score. (2) Measurement of fractional‐exhaled nitric oxide (FENO) at flow rate 50 mL/s.

Results
Eighteen patients reported AR only, without asthma symptoms, and 12 (67%) were BHR. Eleven subjects had both rhinitis and asthma symptoms. Patients with rhinitis and asthma reported significantly more dyspnoea per percent fall in FEV1 compared with those with rhinitis and BHR. Moreover, those with rhinitis and asthma had significantly higher NO values compared with those with rhinitis and BHR.

Conclusion
The difference between rhinitis patients with or without asthma symptoms seems to be mainly a question of perception of dyspnoea. However, FENO measurement indicates that dyspnoea may also be associated with increased inflammatory activity in the peripheral airways.
Using geophysical information to define benthic habitats in a large river
Authors: STRAYER DAVID L. , MALCOM HEATHER M. , BELL ROBIN E. , CARBOTTE SUZANNE M. , NITSCHE FRANK O.
Published: November 2005

1. Most attempts to describe the distribution of benthic macroinvertebrates in large rivers have used local (grab‐scale) assessments of environmental conditions, and have had limited ability to account for spatial variation in macroinvertebrate populations.

2. We tested the ability of a habitat classification system based on multibeam bathymetry, side‐scan sonar, and chirp sub‐bottom seismics to identify large‐scale habitat units (‘facies’) and account for macroinvertebrate distribution in the Hudson River, a large tidal river in eastern New York.

3. Partial linear regression analysis showed that sediment facies were generally more effective than local or positional variables in explaining various aspects of the macroinvertebrate community (community structure, density of all invertebrates, density of fish forage, density of a pest species –Dreissena polymorpha).

4. Large‐scale habitats may be effective at explaining macroinvertebrate distributions in large rivers because they are integrative and describe habitat at the spatial scales of dominant controlling processes.
Consequences of violating the recapture duration assumption of mark–recapture models: a test using simulated and empirical data from an endangered tortoise population
Authors: O'BRIEN SUSAN , ROBERT BOUROU , TIANDRY HAFANY
Published: November 2005

Mark–recapture methods are frequently used to estimate survival rates, which inform wildlife management policies. Mark–recapture models assume zero mortality of marked animals during the period of recapture and therefore that this period is of negligible duration relative to the interval between recapture events. This ‘recapture duration assumption’ is frequently violated yet is rarely tested for its potential to bias survival estimates. We investigated whether violating the recapture duration assumption increased precision at the cost of increased bias in estimates of survival.

Using both simulation and empirical approaches, annual survival and recapture rates were estimated under recapture period durations that either conformed to, or violated, the recapture duration assumption. Empirical data were derived from a population of endangered Madagascar ploughshare tortoises Geochelone yniphora.

Estimates of ploughshare tortoise survival were higher and had smaller standard errors when the recapture duration assumption was violated. As the ‘true’ ploughshare tortoise survivorship was unknown, a simulation approach was used to assess whether short or long recapture periods gave the most reliable estimates.

The simulation study showed that violating the recapture duration assumption increased precision but did not increase bias in parameter estimates, even if up to 50% of the annual mortality occurred during the recapture period. The most precise and least biased survival estimates were obtained when sample size (number of marked individuals) was greatest, i.e. when both survival and recapture rates were high. Bias in survival estimates was negligible unless the recapture rate during the recapture period was < 0·2. We conclude that the most precise ploughshare tortoise parameter estimates were generated by using lengthy recapture occasions that violated the recapture duration assumption.

Synthesis and applications. To achieve the most precise and least biased survival estimates we recommend violating the recapture duration assumption and using a recapture period that maximizes sample size and achieves a recapture rate of > 0·2 during the recapture period. If both survival and recapture rates are relatively constant during the recapture period, survival estimates will then have negligible bias. If a recapture rate of > 0·2 during the recapture period cannot be achieved, methods other than mark–recapture should be used to quantify demographics. These recommendations apply to any species with an annual survival rate > 0·05.
Activity of purified QscR, a Pseudomonas aeruginosa orphan quorum‐sensing transcription factor
Authors: Lee Joon‐Hee , Lequette Yannick , Greenberg E. Peter
Published: November 2005

The opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa has two acyl‐homoserine lactone (acyl‐HSL) signalling systems, LasR‐I and RhlR‐I. LasI catalyses the synthesis of N‐3‐oxododecanoyl homoserine lactone (3OC12) and LasR is a transcription factor that requires 3OC12 as a ligand. RhlI catalyses the synthesis of N‐butanoyl homoserine lactone (C4) and RhlR is a transcription factor that responds to C4. LasR and RhlR control the transcription of hundreds of P. aeruginosa genes. There is a third P. aeruginosa LasR‐RhlR homologue encoded by qscR for which there is no cognate acyl‐HSL synthase gene. To test the hypothesis that QscR functions by direct control of specific promoters in an acyl‐HSL‐dependent manner we purified QscR and characterized QscR activity in vitro. We also studied QscR activity in recombinant Escherichia coli. QscR binds to promoters that have elements similar in sequence to those found in LasR‐ or RhlR‐dependent promoters but QscR does not bind to the LasR‐ or RhlR‐specific promoters we examined. QscR binding to DNA requires 3OC12, but QscR exhibits a relaxed acyl‐HSL specificity compared with the 3OC12‐cognate signal receptor LasR. Our results support the hypothesis that there is a specific QscR‐dependent regulon. We show that QscR controls genes in this regulon directly and that regulation is dependent on an acyl‐HSL produced by LasI. Because of its relaxed signal specificity QscR may also respond to acyl‐HSLs made by other bacteria in mixed bacterial communities.
Cerebral amyloid angiopathy in a 95+ cohort: complement activation and apolipoprotein E (ApoE) genotype
Authors: Tanskanen M. , Lindsberg P. J. , Tienari P. J. , Polvikoski T. , Sulkava R. , Verkkoniemi A. , Rastas S. , Paetau A. , Kiuru‐Enari S.
Published: November 2005

There is growing evidence that in Alzheimer's disease (AD) amyloid β‐protein (Aβ) triggers a chronic inflammatory reaction in cerebral amyloid plaques, including complement proteins. Aβ also accumulates cerebrovascularly in age‐ and AD‐associated cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA). We investigated complement proteins in CAA in a population‐based series using histological and immunohistochemical staining methods. The 74 subjects, aged 95 years or more, had undergone clinical neurological examination and apolipoprotein E (ApoE) genotyping. The brains had been studied for AD post‐mortem, allowing us to relate the histopathological findings to clinical and genetic conditions. CAA with congophilic amyloid was found in 36/74 individuals (48.6%). The vascular amyloid deposits immunoreacted with antibodies to Aβ and complements 3d (C3d) and 9 (C9). The positivity in complement stains increased with growing severity of CAA (P = 0.001). The presence of CAA associated with ApoE ɛ4 (P = 0.0005) and overrepresentation of ɛ4 among those with moderate or severe vs. mild CAA (P = 0.03) was demonstrated. The presence of CAA associated with dementia (P = 0.01), which was contributed by both ɛ4+ (P = 0.02) and ɛ4 – (P = 0.06) subjects. Our study shows that complement proteins are deposited in the affected vessels in Aβ– associated CAA. They may solely represent the cerebral Aβ– burden associated to inflammatory stimuli, or signal a contribution in the clearance of cerebral Aβ, thereby contributing to the events associated with evolution of clinical dementia. Our results demonstrate a strong association between CAA and ApoE ɛ4 as well as dementia and suggest that the contribution of CAA to dementia is largely independent of ApoE ɛ4.
Cellular and reticular variants of haemangioblastoma revisited: a clinicopathologic study of 88 cases
Authors: Hasselblatt M. , Jeibmann A. , Gerß J. , Behrens C. , Rama B. , Wassmann H. , Paulus W.
Published: November 2005

The presence of histological variants of haemangioblastoma is well established, but data on the prognostic implications of histological subtyping are missing. We thus characterized clinical factors associated with histological subtypes, that is, of the cellular and reticular variant of haemangioblastoma, in a series of 88 consecutive primary haemangioblastomas of the central nervous system. Ten haemangioblastomas were classified as ‘cellular’ according to Cushing and Bailey. As compared to the more common ‘reticular’ variant (n = 78), the proportion of tumours containing glial fibrillary acidic protein‐positive tumour cells (80%vs. 7%), as well as median Ki67 (MIB1) proliferation indices [4% (quartiles: 1–8%) vs. < 1% (<1–2%)], was significantly higher in cellular haemangioblastomas (P < 0.01). Recurrences were more frequent in the cellular variant [2/8 (25%) vs. 4/51 (8%)]. Kaplan‐Meier analysis confirmed a significantly higher probability of recurrence in the cellular variant (Log‐Rank test P < 0.01). Cox regression analysis not only confirmed the well established association of von Hippel‐Lindau disease with tumour recurrence (P < 0.01), but also revealed an independent effect of histological subtype on the probability of recurrence (P < 0.05), whereas no significant influence of age, sex or tumour location was observed. To conclude, the results from this retrospective study suggest that histological subtyping of haemangioblastomas has prognostic implications and might contribute to identify patients at risk for recurrence.
RNA interference of Arabidopsis beta‐amylase8 prevents maltose accumulation upon cold shock and increases sensitivity of PSII photochemical efficiency to freezing stress
Authors: Kaplan Fatma , Guy Charles L.
Published: November 2005

It has been suggested that beta‐amylase (BMY) induction during temperature stress in Arabidopsis could lead to starch‐dependent maltose accumulation, and that maltose may contribute to protection of the electron transport chain and proteins in the chloroplast stroma during acute stress. A time‐course transcript profiling analysis for cold shock at 4°C revealed that BMY8 (At4g17090) was induced specifically in response to cold shock, while major induction was not observed for any of the other eight beta‐amylases. A parallel metabolite‐profiling analysis revealed a robust transient maltose accumulation during cold shock. BMY8 RNAi lines with lower BMY8 expression exhibited a starch‐excess phenotype, and a dramatic decrease in maltose accumulation during a 6‐h cold shock at 4°C. The decreased maltose content was also accompanied by decreased glucose, fructose and sucrose content in the BMY8 RNAi plants, consistent with the roles of beta‐amylase and maltose in transitory starch metabolism. BMY8 RNAi lines with reduced soluble sugar content exhibited diminished chlorophyll fluorescence as Fv/Fm ratio compared with wild type, suggesting that PSII photochemical efficiency was more sensitive to freezing stress. Together, carbohydrate analysis and freezing stress results of BMY8 RNAi lines indicate that increased maltose content, by itself or together through a maltose‐dependent increase in other soluble sugars, contributes to the protection of the photosynthetic electron transport chain during freezing stress.
Salinity stress adaptation competence in the extremophile Thellungiella halophila in comparison with its relative Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Gong Qingqiu , Li Pinghua , Ma Shisong , Indu Rupassara S. , Bohnert Hans J.
Published: November 2005

In stark contrast to Arabidopsis, a related species, Thellungiella halophila (Thellungiella salsuginea; salt cress), displays extreme tolerance to high salinity, low humidity and freezing. High nucleotide sequence identity permits the use of tools developed for Arabidopsis for Thellungiella transcript profiling, for which a microarray platform with >25 000 DNA elements (70‐mer oligonucleotides) was used. Microarray transcript profiling and intensity analysis, quantitative RT‐PCR, and metabolite profiles define genes and pathways that showed shared and divergent responses to salinity stress in the two species. Shared responses are exemplified by 40% of the regulated genes functioning in confining ribosomal functions, photosynthesis and cell growth, as well as activating osmolyte production, transport activities and abscisic acid‐dependent pathways. An additional 60% of regulated genes distinguished Thellungiella from Arabidopsis. Analysis of the differences showed that Arabidopsis exhibited a global defense strategy that required bulk protein synthesis, while Thellungiella induced genes functioning in protein folding, post‐translational modification and protein redistribution. At 150 mm NaCl, Thellungiella maintained unimpeded growth. Transcript intensity analyses and metabolite profiles supported the microarray results, pointing towards a stress‐anticipatory preparedness in Thellungiella.
Seed survival and predation of Anoda cristata in soyabean crops
Authors: PURICELLI E , FACCINI D , ORIOLI G , SABBATINI M R
Published: November 2005

Anoda cristata is a troublesome annual broad‐leaved weed in summer crops in the rolling Pampa in Argentina; seeds are the only source of regeneration of this species. Seed persistence or depletion is the result of survival and loss processes, including predation. The objective of this study was to determine survival at two burial depths in undisturbed soil and predation rates of A. cristata seeds in soyabean crops in different rotations and tillage systems. Survival was discontinuous and decreased to 25% after 35 months, after which no further reduction in survival was observed to the end of the experiment at 96 months. No differences in seed survival between seeds placed on the soil surface and buried 5 cm below the soil surface were found at 80 months, but at later times survival was lower for seeds placed on the soil surface. Predation rates ranged between 0.3% day−1 and 6.7% day−1. Of the models tested, a polynomial regression of the rate of predation with time gave the best representation of seed predation. From January to July, predation was higher in non‐tillage plots in the wheat/soyabean rotation. There was no significant difference in predation rates between tillage systems in the soyabean monoculture and no difference between planting densities. Higher crop residue levels in non‐tillage plots in the wheat/soyabean rotation was the dominant factor influencing seed predation, probably because such habitat favours the presence of seed predators.
Germination response of Orobanche seeds subjected to conditioning temperature, water potential and growth regulator treatments
Authors: SONG W J , ZHOU W J , JIN Z L , CAO D D , JOEL D M , TAKEUCHI Y , YONEYAMA K
Published: November 2005

Broomrapes (Orobanche spp.) are parasitic weeds that cause significant losses of crop yield. Experiments were conducted to investigate the seed response to the artificial germination stimulant GR24 in three species of Orobanche subjected to preconditioning under various temperatures, water potentials and with plant growth regulators. The highest germination percentages were observed in Orobanche ramosa, Orobanche aegyptiaca and Orobanche minor seeds conditioned at 18°C for 7 days followed by germination stimulation at 18°C. With the increase of the conditioning period (7, 14, 21 and 28 days), the germination percentage of O. ramosa and O. aegyptiaca progressively decreased. When conditioned at −2 MPa, the germination percentage was lower than at 0 and −1 MPa, especially at 13 and 28°C. Orobanche minor seeds could retain relatively high germination if conditioned at 18, 23 or 28°C, even after significantly extended conditioning periods (up to 84 days). GA3 (30–100 mg L−1), norflurazon and fluridone (10–100 mg L−1), and brassinolide (0.5–1.0 mg L−1) increased seed germination, while 0.01 mg L−1 uniconazole significantly reduced germination rates of all three Orobanche spp. The promotional effects of GA3 and norflurazon and the inhibitory effect of uniconazole were evident, even when they were treated for 3 days. Germination of Orobanche seeds was much lower when the unconditioned seeds were directly exposed to GR24 at 10−6 m. This early GR24‐induced inhibition was however alleviated or even eliminated by the inclusion of GA3 or norflurazon (10–50 mg L−1) in the conditioning medium. On the contrary, the inclusion of uniconazole increased the inhibitory effect of GR24, particularly in the case of O. ramosa.
Differences in the molecular basis of resistance to the cyclohexanedione herbicide sethoxydim in Lolium multiflorum
Authors: WHITE G M , MOSS S R , KARP A
Published: November 2005

Resistance to the cyclohexanedione (CHD) herbicide sethoxydim was investigated in two UK Lolium multiflorum populations, Yorks A2 and PYL. Resistance screening experiments demonstrated a qualitative difference in the responses of the two populations to sethoxydim, suggesting that the molecular basis of resistance between them was different. After treatment, Yorks A2 plants were either alive (78% of sample tested) or dead (22% tested) but plants of the PYL population showed two further intermediate categories of response. The level of acetyl‐CoA carboxylase (ACCase) insensitivity directly correlated with the degree of resistance at the whole plant level, indicating that the molecular basis of resistance is associated with differences in ACCase sensitivity in each population. Direct sequencing of the carboxyl transferase domain of the ACCase gene showed that an Ile‐418‐Leu substitution in the L. multiflorum chloroplastic ACCase (GenBank accession number AY710293) confers resistance to sethoxydim in Yorks A2. This corresponds to amino acid residue 1781 in the Alopecurus myosuroides full ACCase sequence. This is the first report of this mutation in this L. multiflorum, which has also been reported in four other grass‐weeds, including L. rigidum. However, no amino acid substitutions were found to be specifically associated with the resistant phenotypes in the PYL population and the molecular basis of resistance in this population remains to be resolved.
An assessment of genetic diversity within and between populations of Phalaris minor using ISSR markers
Authors: McROBERTS N , SINCLAIR W , McPHERSON A , FRANKE A C , SAHARAN R P , MALIK R K , SINGH S , MARSHALL G
Published: November 2005

Intra‐ and inter‐sample similarities for four populations of the annual grass weed Phalaris minor from Haryana state, India, were examined using inter‐simple sequence repeat (ISSR) DNA markers. Levels of polymorphism within and between populations were low in comparison with values reported from other grassy weed species. Analysis of inter‐population similarities allowed a partial differentiation of the four populations and of pairs of populations classified by cropping system. Analysis of the intra‐population similarity data showed a weak but consistent and statistically significant negative correlation between the molecular similarity of seedlings and the physical distance between their mother plants over distances up to 40 m (the maximum separation tested) in all four populations. The consistency of the observed relationship between molecular similarity and physical separation, and the differences in cultivation practices at the four sites, suggested that the relationship may be a result of localized out‐crossing, rather than an effect of localized seed rain. The results of the analyses are discussed in relation to the potential for evolution of multiple traits in the weed in response to changes in the wheat production system in the region.
Localized bullous pemphigoid: a commonly delayed diagnosis
Authors: Tran Julie T. , Mutasim Diya F.
Published: November 2005

Localized bullous pemphigoid is a rare clinical variant of bullous pemphigoid. We report three cases of localized bullous pemphigoid in which the diagnosis was delayed because the presentation simulated other local vesicular or bullous diseases. Localized bullous pemphigoid differs from the generalized form by its more benign course. Early diagnosis will help avoid unnecessary and costly treatment for unrelated conditions.
Genetic robustness and selection at the protein level for synonymous codons
Authors: Archetti M.
Published: November 2005

Synonymous codons are neutral at the protein level, therefore natural selection at the protein level should have no effect on their frequencies. Synonymous codons, however, differ in their capacity to reduce the effects of errors: after mutation, certain codons keep on coding for the same amino acid or for amino acids with similar properties, while other synonymous codons produce very different amino acids. Therefore, the impact of errors on a coding sequence (genetic robustness) can be measured by analysing its codon usage. I analyse the codon usage of sequenced nuclear and cytoplasmic genomes and I show that there is an extensive variation in genetic robustness at the DNA sequence level, both among genomes and among genes of the same genome. I also show theoretically that robustness can be adaptive, that is natural selection may lead to a preference for codons that reduce the impact of errors. If selection occurs only among the mutants of a codon (e.g. among the progeny before the adult phase), however, the codons that are more sensitive to the effects of mutations may increase in frequency because they manage to get rid more easily of deleterious mutations. I also suggest other possible explanations for the evolution of genetic robustness at the codon level.
Slow response of plant species richness to habitat loss and fragmentation
Authors: Helm Aveliina , Hanski Ilkka , Pärtel Meelis
Published: November 2005

We examined the response of vascular plant species richness to long‐term habitat loss and fragmentation of Estonian calcareous grasslands (alvars). The current number of habitat specialist species in 35 alvars was not explained by their current areas and connectivities but it was explained by their areas and connectivities 70 years ago (R2 = 0.27). We estimated the magnitude of extinction debt in local communities by assuming an equilibrium species richness in 14 alvars that had lost only a small amount of area and by applying this model to the remaining alvars, in which the average area has declined from 3.64 km2 in the 1930s to 0.21 km2 at present. The extinction debt estimated for individual alvars was around 40% of their current species number. Our conclusions are applicable to temperate grasslands in general, which have lost much area because of agricultural intensification and cessation of traditional management.
Quantifying the extinction vortex
Authors: Fagan William F. , Holmes E. E.
Published: November 2005

We developed a database of 10 wild vertebrate populations whose declines to extinction were monitored over at least 12 years. We quantitatively characterized the final declines of these well‐monitored populations and tested key theoretical predictions about the process of extinction, obtaining two primary results. First, we found evidence of logarithmic scaling of time‐to‐extinction as a function of population size for each of the 10 populations. Second, two lines of evidence suggested that these extinction‐bound populations collectively exhibited dynamics akin to those theoretically proposed to occur in extinction vortices. Specifically, retrospective analyses suggested that a population size ofnindividuals within a decade of extinction was somehow less valuable to persistence than the same population size was earlier. Likewise, both year‐to‐year rates of decline and year‐to‐year variability increased as the time‐to‐extinction decreased. Together, these results provide key empirical insights into extinction dynamics, an important topic that has received extensive theoretical attention.
Intergenerational Mobility under Private vs. Public Education*
Authors: Davies James B. , Zhang Jie , Zeng Jinli
Published: November 2005

Intergenerational earnings mobility is analyzed in a model where human capital is produced using schooling and parental time. In steady states more mobile societies have less inequality, but in the short run higher mobility may result from an increase in inequality. Starting from the same inequality, mobility is higher under public than under private education. A rise in income shocks, for example due to increased returns to ability, or a switch from public to private schooling both increase inequality. However, increased shocks raise mobility in the short run and do not affect it in the long run, whereas an increased role for private schooling reduces mobility in both the short and long run. That these differences may help to identify the source of changes in inequality, and other real‐world implications, are illustrated in a brief discussion of time trends and cross‐country differences.
Stick, Carrot and Skill Acquisition*
Authors: Filges Trine , Larsen Birthe
Published: November 2005

We evaluate the impact of specially designed youth unemployment programmes (YUPs), intended to provide young unemployed unskilled workers with skills. If unemployment among skilled workers is lower than among unskilled workers, YUPs imply that unemployment falls. However, YUPs potentially crowd out ordinary training. We set up an equilibrium matching model with endogenous skill choice and examine the impact of an increase in programme participation. We derive a condition for crowding out of ordinary training, as well as a condition for an increase in the skilled labour force and thereby reduced unemployment. The impact of YUPs on welfare and wage dispersion is also considered.
New‐Keynesian Models and Monetary Policy: A Re‐examination of the Stylized Facts*
Authors: Söderström Ulf , Söderlind Paul , Vredin Anders
Published: November 2005

Using an empirical New‐Keynesian model with optimal discretionary monetary policy, we estimate key parameters—the central bank's preference parameters; the degree of forward‐looking behavior in the determination of inflation and output; and the variances of inflation and output shocks—to match some broad characteristics of U.S. data. The parameterization we obtain implies a small concern for output stability but a large preference for interest rate smoothing, and a small degree of forward‐looking behavior in price‐setting but a large degree of forward‐looking in the determination of output. Our methodology also allows us to carefully examine the consequences of alternative parameterizations and to provide intuition for our results.
Economic Implications of Alternative Allocation Schemes for Emission Allowances*
Authors: Böhringer Christoph , Lange Andreas
Published: November 2005

For reasons of political feasibility, emission trading systems may have to rely on free initial allocation of emission allowances in order to ameliorate adverse production and employment effects in dirty industries. Against the background of an emerging European‐wide emission trading system, we examine the trade‐off between such compensation and economic efficiency under output‐based and emissions‐based allocation rules. We show that the emissions‐based allocation rule is more costly than the output‐based rule in terms of maintaining output and employment in energy‐intensive industries. When the international allowance price increases, the inferiority of emissions‐based allocation vis‐à‐vis output‐based allocation becomes more pronounced, as emission subsidies drastically restrict efficiency gains from international trade in emission allowances.
Healthcare librarians and learner support: a review of competences and methods
Authors: Robinson Lyn , Hilger‐Ellis Julia , Osborne Liz , Rowlands Jane , Smith Janet M. , Weist Anne , Whetherly June , Phillips Ray
Published: November 2005

Objectives:

London Health Libraries (LHL) are undertaking a project in order to develop the role of their library and knowledge services staff in supporting learners within the NHS in the London area (LHL Learner Support Project). This paper reports on the first phase of the project.

Methodology:

A literature analysis was carried out to provide guidance on the skills and competences needed for library and knowledge staff to perform this function.

Results:

A variety of competences are identified, and structured in a model incorporating both training skills and general professional competencies. Library and knowledge staff will themselves need to have a high‐level of information literacy and to be active lifelong learners.

Conclusions:

A ‘blended learning’ approach, involving e‐learning together with other methods, is identified as the most appropriate way for skills to be acquired.
Using mobile technologies to give health students access to learning resources in the UK community setting
Authors: Walton Graham , Childs Susan , Blenkinsopp Elizabeth
Published: November 2005

Objectives:  This article describes a project which explored the potential for mobile technologies to give health students in the community access to learning resources. The purpose included the need to identify possible barriers students could face in using mobile technologies. Another focus was to assess the students perceptions of the importance of being able to access learning resources in the community.

Methods:  This 1‐year project used two main approaches for data collection. A review of the literature on mobile technologies in the health context was conducted. This was used in a systematic way to identify key issues and trends. The literature review was used to inform the design and production of a questionnaire. This was distributed to and completed by a group of community health students at Northumbria University, UK. The questionnaire was piloted and there was a 100% completion rate with 49 returned forms.

Results:  The literature review indicated that most mobile technology applications were occurring in the US. At the time of the review the most prevalent mobile technologies were PDAs, laptops, WAP phones and portable radios with use being concentrated around doctors in the acute sector. A range of advantages and disadvantages to the technology were discovered. Mobile technologies were mainly being used for clinical rather than learning applications. The students showed a low level of awareness of the technology but placed great importance to accessing learning resources from the community.

Conclusions:  Significant development and changes are taking place in mobile technologies. Since the data collection for this work was completed in 2004 podcasting and videocasting have become significant in mobile learning for health professionals. Librarians will need to address the relevance and implications of m‐learning for their practice. Care and consideration needs to be given on the time and resources librarians allocate for the necessary development work around mobile technologies. Collaboration and partnership working will be most effective approach for librarians wishing to integrate their services with m‐learning technologies.
Effectiveness of recombinant human platelet‐derived growth factor for the treatment of diabetic neuropathic foot ulcers
Authors: MARGOLIS DAVID J. , BARTUS CYNTHIA , HOFFSTAD OLE , MALAY SCOT , BERLIN JESSE A.
Published: November 2005

The goal of this study was to estimate the effectiveness in actual clinical practice of recombinant human platelet‐derived growth factor (rhPDGF) for the treatment of diabetic neuropathic foot ulcer (DNFU). Previously published pivotal trials have shown that by the 20th week of care 35 percent more ulcers healed in the group randomized to receive rhPDGF than those who did not receive rhPDGF (i.e., a relative risk [RR] of about 1.35). This represents an estimate of the efficacy of rhPDGF under the tightly controlled conditions of randomized clinical trials. Treatment effectiveness under standard clinical practice was estimated in a retrospective cohort study, controlling for treatment selection bias using propensity scores. We noted 24,898 individuals with a DNFU, of whom 9.6 percent received rhPDGF. We successfully created a propensity score model that evenly balanced many wound characteristics between those who received rhPDGF and those who did not. We created five groups, which varied from those least likely to receive rhPDGF to those most likely to receive rhPDGF. The RR, controlling for the propensity, to receive rhPDGF for a healed wound after treatment with rhPDGF as compared with standard care was 1.32 (1.22, 1.38). With respect to amputation, the RR for undergoing amputation after receiving rhPDGF was 0.65 (0.54, 0.78) as compared with those who did not receive rhPDGF. Within the limitations of our study, rhPDGF is more effective than standard therapy in both helping a wound to heal and preventing amputation, and its effect is similar to the efficacy estimates from previously published randomized controlled trials.
Plantar pressure in off‐loading devices used in diabetic ulcer treatment
Authors: BEUKER BENN J. , VAN DEURSEN ROBERT W. , PRICE PATRICIA , MANNING ERIK A. , VAN BAAL JEFF G. , HARDING KEITH G.
Published: November 2005

Four off‐loading devices used for the treatment of diabetic forefoot ulcers were compared: a custom‐molded insole shoe, a cast MABAL shoe, a prefabricated pneumatic walking brace, and a bivalved total contact cast (BTCC). It was anticipated that all devices would significantly reduce forefoot plantar pressure compared with a control shoe. Sixteen healthy volunteers participated. Plantar pressures were evaluated using the Pedar system, while walking speed was determined using an optoelectric timer. Peak pressure (PP) of ten plantar areas and pressure–time integral for the first metatarsal area were analyzed statistically using a repeated measures analysis of variance. Forefoot pressures were significantly reduced compared with the control shoe for all devices (p<0.001). PP was most reduced (by 65.8%) for the BTCC, and pressure–time integral was most reduced for the BTCC and cast MABAL shoe. Small but significant differences between devices in walking speed (p<0.05) could not explain the substantial PP differences between the different devices. Although all off‐loading devices resulted in a significant reduction of forefoot plantar pressure, devices differed significantly in the magnitude of pressure reduction. Further research will have to reveal the level of off‐loading sufficient for effective treatment of diabetic ulcers.
Treatment of Unprotected Left Main Coronary Artery Stenosis in the Drug‐Eluting Stent Era
Authors: TANIGAWA JUN , SUTARIA NILESH , GOKTEKIN OMER , DI MARIO CARLO
Published: November 2005

Coronary angiography is often inadequate for estimating the severity of ambiguous left main coronary artery (LMCA) stenoses. Our assessment of these lesions can be improved by the techniques of intravascular ultrasound and fractional flow reserve which provide indices of stenosis severity to enable the prediction of future events and planning of treatment. For patients requiring LMCA revascularization, coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery has been gold standard for decades. However, this technique continues to be limited by factors such as periprocedural mortality, prolonged hospital stay and rehabilitation, and long‐term graft patency. LMCA stenosis remains one of the few serious challenges for the interventional cardiologists and, in the bare metal stent era, the long‐term results were not sufficient to replace CABG surgery, mainly because of the high restenosis rate. Drug‐eluting stents (DES) have dramatically reduced the restenosis rate and early results in small series (approximately 300 patients in total) treated with DES in LMCA have been encouraging, especially for lesions at the ostium and in the left main shaft. Before changes are made in the guidelines for treatment, we must wait for a refinement in the technique and stent design used for bifurcational left main lesion and the results of randomized, specific multicenter studies (SYNTAX trial). It is likely that, for selected patients, LMCA stenosis will be regarded as an indication for PCI.
Renal Artery Stenosis: Epidemiology, Clinical Manifestation, and Percutaneous Endovascular Therapy
Authors: ZELLER THOMAS
Published: November 2005

Renal artery stenosis may cause or deteriorate arterial hypertension and/or renal insufficiency. Technical improvements of diagnostic and interventional endovascular tools have lead to a more widespread use of endoluminal renal artery revascularization and extension of the indications for this type of therapy. Since the first renal artery angioplasties performed by Felix Mahler and Andreas Grüntzig in 1978, numerous single‐center studies have reported the beneficial effect of percutaneous transluminal renal angioplasty, and since the early 1990's stenting of renal artery stenosis caused either by atherosclerosis or by fibromuscular dysplasia. This article summarizes the impact of technical improvements of endovascular tools on interventional techniques during the last decade and gives an overview concerning the clinical impact of renal artery revascularization. Despite the absence of sufficient randomized studies, there is nonetheless evidence that stenting of hemodynamically relevant atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis has an impact on blood pressure control, renal function, and left ventricular hypertrophy.