bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shewanella arctica sp. nov., an iron-reducing bacterium isolated from Arctic marine sediment
Authors: Kim So-Jeong , Park Soo-Je , Oh Yong-Sik , Lee Sang-Ah , Shin Kee-Sun , Roh Dong-Hyun , Rhee Sung-Keun
Published: July 2011

Two strains of dissimilatory iron-reducing bacteria, which could couple lactate oxidation to iron reduction for energy conservation, were isolated from Arctic marine sediment. The strains, IR12T and IR26, were both Gram-staining-negative, catalase- and oxidase-positive and facultative anaerobes. Their cells were rod-shaped and motile by means of a polar flagellum. Both strains grew in the presence of 0.5–3.5 % (w/v) NaCl, with an absolute requirement for Na+. Both were psychrotolerant since they could grow at 4-28 °C but had an optimum growth temperature of 20 °C. Both grew at pH 4.5–9.0 (optimum, pH 7.5). The major fatty acids of strains IR12T and IR26 were summed feature 3 (C16 : 1ω6c and/or C16 : 1ω7c) and C16 : 0. Phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that strains IR12T and IR26 belonged to the class

Gammaproteobacteria

and were most closely related to

Shewanella vesiculosa

M7T,

Shewanella livingstonensis

NF22T and

Shewanella frigidimarina

ACAM 591T (with 98.5 and 98.8 %, 98.5 and 98.8 %, and 98.5 and 98.8 % sequence similarities, respectively). The genomic DNA G+C contents of strains IR12T and IR26 were 40.0 and 40.3 mol%, respectively. DNA–DNA relatedness data indicated that the two novel strains represented a single species that was distinct from

S. vesiculosa

M7T,

S. livingstonensis

NF22T and

S. frigidimarina

ACAM 591T. Based on the phylogenetic, phenotypic and DNA–DNA relatedness data, the two new strains represent a single novel species of the genus

Shewanella

, for which the name
Shewanella

arctica sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is IR12T ( = KCTC 23109T = JCM 16723T).
Moorea producens gen. nov., sp. nov. and Moorea bouillonii comb. nov., tropical marine cyanobacteria rich in bioactive secondary metabolites
Authors: Engene Niclas , Rottacker Erin C. , Kaštovský Jan , Byrum Tara , Choi Hyukjae , Ellisman Mark H. , Komárek Jiří , Gerwick William H.
Published: July 2011

The filamentous cyanobacterial genus Moorea gen. nov., described here under the provisions of the International Code of Botanical Nomenclature, is a cosmopolitan pan-tropical group abundant in the marine benthos. Members of the genus Moorea are photosynthetic (containing phycocyanin, phycoerythrin, allophycocyanin and chlorophyll a), but non-diazotrophic (lack heterocysts and nitrogenase reductase genes). The cells (discoid and 25–80 µm wide) are arranged in long filaments (<10 cm in length) and often form extensive mats or blooms in shallow water. The cells are surrounded by thick polysaccharide sheaths covered by a rich diversity of heterotrophic micro-organisms. A distinctive character of this genus is its extraordinarily rich production of bioactive secondary metabolites. This is matched by genomes rich in polyketide synthase and non-ribosomal peptide synthetase biosynthetic genes which are dedicated to secondary metabolism. The encoded natural products are sometimes responsible for harmful algae blooms and, due to morphological resemblance to the genus

Lyngbya

, this group has often been incorrectly cited in the literature. We here describe two species of the genus Moorea: Moorea producens sp. nov. (type species of the genus) with 3LT as the nomenclature type, and Moorea bouillonii comb. nov. with PNG5-198R as the nomenclature type.
Camelimonas abortus sp. nov., isolated from placental tissue of cattle
Authors: Kämpfer P. , Scholz H. C. , Lodders N. , Loncaric I. , Whatmore A. M. , Busse H.-J.
Published: July 2011

A Gram-negative, rod-shaped, non-spore-forming bacterium, isolated from placental tissue of a cow, was investigated for its taxonomic position. On the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities, strain UK34/07-5T was shown to belong to the class

Alphaproteobacteria

, closely related to the type strain of

Camelimonas lactis

(96.0 % sequence similarity). The polyamine pattern showed the major compound spermidine and moderate amounts of putrescine. The major quinone was ubiquinone Q-10. The polar lipid profile was composed of the major compounds phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylmonomethylethanolamine and moderate amounts of diphosphatidylglycerol, three unidentified aminolipids and an unidentified phospholipid. The profile of major fatty acids, consisting of C19 : 0 cyclo ω8c and C18 : 1ω7c, with C18 : 0 3-OH as the hydroxylated fatty acid, was very similar to that of

C. lactis

M 2040T. The results of DNA–DNA hybridization and physiological and biochemical tests allowed both genotypic and phenotypic differentiation of the isolate from

C. lactis

. The relatively low 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity of 96.0 % to

C. lactis

M 2040T and marked differences in the polar lipid profiles as well as the results of physiological tests and the DNA–DNA hybridization data support the creation of a novel species, for which the name Camelimonas abortus sp. nov. is proposed, with the type strain UK34/07-5T ( = CIP 110303T  = CCUG 61094T  = DSM 24741T  = CCM 7941T).
A meta‐analysis of the association of adiponectin gene polymorphisms with coronary heart disease in Chinese Han population
Authors: Zhang Bu‐Chun , Li Wei‐Ming , Xu Ya‐Wei
Published: July 2011

Objective  Variants of adiponectin gene have been reported to be associated with coronary heart disease (CHD), but the available data on this relationship are inconsistent. A meta‐analysis was performed to quantitatively analyse the association of adiponectin gene polymorphisms with coronary artery disease using previous case–control studies in Chinese Han populations.

Methods  Several electronic databases were searched for relevant articles up to January 2011. After data collection and gene loci selection, a meta‐analysis was performed to assess heterogeneity, combine results and evaluate variations. Publication bias was examined by the Egger’s linear regression test. Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium (HWE) test and by omitting one study at a time was employed for the sensitivity analysis.

Results  Eleven studies covering 4303 subjects focusing on two polymorphisms [+45T→G (rs2241766) and +276G→T (rs1501299)] in the adiponectin gene and risk of CHD were included in the meta‐analysis. Combined analyses of studies of the SNP+45 showed no significant overall association with CHD, yielding ORs of 1·03 (0·80, 1·34) and 1·32 (0·86, 2·03) under a dominant and recessive model, respectively, with strong evidence of heterogeneity. Similar results were also obtained in other genetic models. Concerning SNP+276, a significantly decreased CHD risk was observed under a dominant model, a codominant model and a allele contrast model, with an odds ratio of 0·67 (0·54, 0·83), 0·77 (0·62, 0·94) and 0·69 (0·55, 0·86), respectively. Sensitivity analysis confirmed the reliability and stability of this meta‐analysis.

Conclusions  The accumulated evidence suggested that the adiponectin gene polymorphism, SNP+45, is not associated with CHD, but the SNP+276T allele might be associated with decreased risk of CHD in the Chinese Han population. More well‐designed large studies are required for the validation of this association.
Age‐related modification of antioxidant enzyme activities in relation to cardiovascular risk factors
Authors: Fabian Elisabeth , Bogner Michaela , Elmadfa Ibrahim
Published: July 2011

Eur J Clin Invest 2012; 42 (1): 42–48

Background  Since oxidative stress might cause and promote cardiovascular risk factors such as oxidized low‐density lipoproteins (oxLDL), apolipoprotein(a) [apo(a)], asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) and fetuin A, we investigated antioxidant enzyme activities in relation to the vascular redox balance and these risk factors in elderly people.

Materials and methods  For this observational study, a total of 102 subjects were recruited and divided into three groups: A (70–74 years/n = 48), B (75–79 years/n = 35) and C (≥80 years/n = 19). Activities of the erythrocyte antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px) and catalase (CAT) were determined photometrically oxLDL, apo(a), ADMA and fetuin A by ELISA. Plasma concentrations of the lipid peroxidation products malondialdehyde (MDA) and conjugated dienes (CD) were analysed with HPLC.

Results  There were no significant age‐associated alterations in apo(a) levels, but there was a significant age‐related decrease in activities of SOD (A>C, B>C: P < 0·01), CAT (A>C: P < 0·05) and GSH‐Px (A>C: P < 0·05), accompanied by a significant increase in oxLDL (A<C: P < 0·001; B<C: P < 0·05), ADMA (A<B: P < 0·05; A<C: P < 0·001), MDA (A<C, B<C: P < 0·01) and CD (A<C, B<C: P < 0·01), and a significant decrease in fetuin A (A>C: P < 0·01; B>C: P < 0·05). Consequently, all groups showed significant negative age‐associated correlations between CAT and MDA (A, B, C: P < 0·05), GSH‐Px and CD (A, C: P < 0·01; B: P < 0·05), SOD and oxLDL (A, B: P < 0·05; C: P < 0·01), and fetuin A and MDA (A: P < 0·01; B, C: P < 0·05), and a significant positive correlation between oxLDL and ADMA (A, B: P < 0·05; C: P < 0·01).

Conclusions  This study indicates a significant age‐related decrease in antioxidant enzyme activities accompanied by significantly increased systemic oxidative stress, which promotes the cardiovascular risk factors oxLDL, ADMA and fetuin A in elderly people.
In the mind or in the brain? Scientific evidence for central sensitisation in chronic fatigue syndrome
Authors: Nijs Jo , Meeus Mira , Van Oosterwijck Jessica , Ickmans Kelly , Moorkens Greta , Hans Guy , De Clerck Luc S.
Published: July 2011

Eur J Clin Invest 2011

Background Central sensitisation entails several top‐down and bottom‐up mechanisms, all contributing to the hyperresponsiveness of the central nervous system to a variety of inputs. In the late nineties, it was first hypothesised that chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is characterised by hypersensitivity of the central nervous system (i.e. central sensitisation). Since then, several studies have examined central sensitisation in patients with CFS. This study provides an overview of such studies.

Materials and Methods Narrative review.

Results Various studies showed generalised hyperalgesia in CFS for a variety of sensory stimuli, including electrical stimulation, mechanical pressure, heat and histamine. Various tissues are affected by generalised hyperalgesia: the skin, muscle tissue and the lungs. Generalised hyperalgesia in CFS is augmented, rather than decreased, following various types of stressors like exercise and noxious heat pain. Endogenous inhibition is not activated in response to exercise and activation of diffuse noxious inhibitory controls following noxious heat application to the skin is delayed.

Conclusions The observation of central sensitisation in CFS is in line with our current understanding of CFS. The presence of central sensitisation in CFS corroborates with the presence of several psychological influences on the illness, the presence of infectious agents and immune dysfunctions and the dysfunctional hypothalamus–pituitary–adrenal axis as seen in these severely debilitated patients.
Characterization of volatile compounds from Daqu‐a traditional Chinese liquor fermentation starter
Authors: Zhang Chunlin , Ao Zonghua , Chui Weiqiang , Shen Caihong , Tao Wenyi , Zhang Suyi
Published: July 2011

Daqu is a fermentation starter and substrate complex that is used to initiate the solid fermentations for the production of Chinese liquor. The aroma of Daqu is one of the most important factors that influence the flavour of Chinese liquor. To further study the aroma of Daqu, volatile compounds in ten Daqu samples were extracted by headspace solid‐phase microextraction (HS‐SPME) and analysed by gas chromatography–mass spectrum (GC‐MS). The samples were pre‐equilibrated at 50 °C for 10 min and extracted with stirring at the same temperature for 30 min prior to injection into a GC‐MS. A total of 75 volatile compounds were characterised by GC‐MS, including twelve alcohols, eleven esters, eight acids, nine aromatic compounds, four phenols, two furans, fourteen nitrogen‐containing compounds and fifteen aldehydes and ketones. By a principal component analysis (PCA), the ten Daqu samples could be classified into three groups according to their origins and, in particular, the production technologies.
Effect of gamma irradiation on physicochemical properties, proximate composition, vitamins and antinutritional factors of the tribal pulse Vigna unguiculata subsp. unguiculata
Authors: Tresina Pious Soris , Mohan Veerabahu R.
Published: July 2011

Effect of gamma irradiation on Vigna unguiculata subsp. unguiculata seeds (maroon‐coloured seed coat) at various doses (2, 5, 10, 15 and 25 kGy) on the physicochemical properties, proximate composition, vitamins (niacin and ascorbic acid) and antinutritional factors were analysed. No significant changes were recorded in the physicochemical properties of irradiated seeds. Gamma irradiation resulted in a significant increase in crude protein, while the crude lipid, crude fibre and ash contents resulted in a dose‐dependent decrease. Gamma‐irradiated seeds presented a significant decrease in the ascorbic acid and niacin content. Irradiation processing significantly reduced the level of L‐DOPA, phytic acid, hydrogen cyanide, trypsin inhibitor activity, oligosaccharides and lectins. The total free phenolics, tannins and in vitro protein digestibility on irradiation showed a significant dose‐dependent increase. Gamma irradiation seems to be a good procedure to improve the quality of legume seeds from the nutritional point of view.
A comparison of the hand hygiene knowledge, beliefs and practices of Italian nursing and medical students
Authors: Van De Mortel Thea F. , Kermode Stephen , Progano Tomaso , Sansoni Julita
Published: July 2011

van de mortel t.f., kermode s., progano t. & sansoni j. (2012) A comparison of the hand hygiene knowledge, beliefs and practices of Italian nursing and medical students. Journal of Advanced Nursing68(3), 569–579.

Aim.  This paper reports a study examining the hand hygiene knowledge, beliefs and practices of Italian nursing and medical students with the aim of informing undergraduate curricula.

Background.  In comparison with registered nurses, physician status is a risk factor for non‐compliance with hand hygiene guidelines. Little research has been conducted to determine if differences between the professions in relation to hand hygiene are apparent at the undergraduate level. Cross‐disciplinary studies that may provide an insight into this topic are lacking.

Methods.  A questionnaire was administered to a convenience sample of 117 nursing and 119 medical students in a large university in Rome, Italy, to determine their hand hygiene knowledge, beliefs and practices. The data were collected in 2007–2008.

Results.  Nursing students’ hand hygiene knowledge (F = 9·03(1,230); P = 0·003), percentage compliance (Z = 6·197; P < 0·001) and self‐reported hand hygiene practices (F = 34·54(1,230); P < 0·001) were significantly higher than that of medical students. There were no statistically significant differences between hand hygiene beliefs. Mean scores on the knowledge questions were low for both groups, reflecting primarily a knowledge deficit in relation to the use of alcohol‐based hand rubs to decontaminate hands in the healthcare setting.

Conclusion.  Statistically significant disciplinary differences in hand hygiene knowledge and self‐reported practices were apparent among undergraduate Italian healthcare students. Further research is needed to determine the causative factors. The overall low scores on the knowledge items indicate that these students require further education on hand hygiene, particularly in relation to the use of alcohol‐based hand rubs.
Nurses' decision on seclusion: patient characteristics, contextual factors and reflexivity in teams
Authors: BOUMANS C. E. , EGGER J. I. M. , SOUREN P. M. , MANN‐POLL P. S. , HUTSCHEMAEKERS G. J. M.
Published: July 2011

Accessible summary

Decision making by nurses on seclusion of severely disturbed and aggressive patients is a complex process; the relative importance of patient, professional and facility factors is unclear.

In a vignette study, psychiatric nurses were asked to indicate to what extent they would or would not decide to seclude an imaginary patient.

The (im)possibility to communicate with the patient, as well as factors concerning the availability and cooperation of the staff, proved to be at least as important as ‘pure’ patient characteristics as diagnosis, seclusion history and severity and target of threat.

High team reflexivity, i.e. the extent to which team members reflect upon and communicate about the team's objectives, strategies and processes, seems to have a preventive effect on seclusion.

While many characteristics of patients, professionals and facilities with relevance to seclusion rates have been investigated, their relative importance is unclear. Virtually no attention has been paid to team processes and reflexivity in relation to decision making on seclusion. The aim of this paper is to estimate the effects of these factors on nurse decision making on seclusion. Sixty Dutch psychiatric nurses of four closed wards reported team reflexivity and their tendency to seclude a theoretical patient. Approachability (whether there was a good or hardly any possibility to communicate with the patient), staffing level and confidence within the team had the greatest impact on the decision to seclude. Intra class correlation was 0.30. There was a large interaction effect of reflexivity with team 4, and team reflexivity was highly correlated with team tendency to avoid seclusion. In nurses' decision on seclusion, the effects of ‘pure’ patient characteristics are small as compared with the effects of interpersonal and contextual factors, and nurses vary widely in their judgement. Team reflexivity is related to the tendency to prevent seclusion.
InlB‐mediated Listeria monocytogenes internalization requires a balanced phospholipase D activity maintained through phospho‐cofilin
Authors: Han Xuelin , Yu Rentao , Ji Lei , Zhen Dongyu , Tao Sha , Li Shuai , Sun Yansong , Huang Liuyu , Feng Zhe , Li Xianping , Han Gaige , Schmidt Martina , Han Li
Published: July 2011

Internalization of Listeria monocytogenes into non‐phagocytic cells is tightly controlled by host cell actin dynamics and cell membrane alterations. However, knowledge about the impact of phosphatidylcholine cleavage driven by host cell phospholipase D (PLD) on Listeria internalization into epithelial cells is limited. Here, we report that L. monocytogenes activates PLD in Vero cells during the internalization. With immunostaining it was shown that both PLD1 and PLD2 surrounded partially or completely the phagocytic cup of most L. monocytogenes. Either up‐ or down‐regulation of PLD expression (activity) diminished Listeria internalization. Both PLD1 and PLD2 in Vero cells were required for efficient Listeria internalization, and could substitute for each other in the regulation of Listeria internalization. Further, exogenous InlB activated host cell PLD1 and PLD2 via the Met receptor, and restored host PLD activation by InlB‐deficient L. monocytogenes. InlB‐induced PLD activation and Listeria internalization were tightly controlled by phospho‐cycling of cofilin. PLD1, but not PLD2, was involved in cofilin‐mediated PLD activation and Listeria internalization. These data indicate that cofilin‐dependent PLD activation induced by InlB may represent a novel regulation mechanism for efficient Listeria internalization into epithelial cells.
Global analysis of phase variation in Myxococcus xanthus
Authors: Furusawa Gou , Dziewanowska Katarzyna , Stone Hannah , Settles Matthew , Hartzell Patricia
Published: July 2011

Myxococcus xanthus can vary its phenotype or ‘phase’ to produce colonies that contain predominantly yellow or tan cells that differ greatly in their abilities to swarm, survive and develop. Yellow variants are proficient at swarming (++) and tend to lyse in liquid during stationary phase. In contrast, tan variants are deficient in swarming (+) and persist beyond stationary phase. The phenotypes and transcriptomes of yellow and tan variants were compared with mutants affected in phase variation. Thirty‐seven genes were upregulated specifically in yellow variants including those for production of the yellow pigment, DKxanthene. A mutant in DKxanthene synthesis produced non‐pigmented (tan) colonies but still phase varied for swarming suggesting that pigmentation is not the cause of phase variation. Disruption of a gene encoding a HTH‐Xre‐like regulator, highly expressed in yellow variants, abolished pigment production and blocked the ability of cells to switch from a swarm ++ to a swarm (+) phenotype, showing that HTH‐Xre regulates phase variation. Among the four genes whose expression was increased in tan variants was pkn14, which encodes a serine‐threonine kinase that regulates programmed cell death in Myxococcus via the MrpC–MazF toxin–antitoxin complex. High levels of phosphorylated Pkn14 may explain why tan cells enjoy enhanced survival.
Site‐specific accretion of an integrative conjugative element together with a related genomic island leads to cis mobilization and gene capture
Authors: Bellanger Xavier , Morel Catherine , Gonot Fabien , Puymege Aurore , Decaris Bernard , Guédon Gérard
Published: July 2011

Genomic islands, flanked by attachment sites, devoid of conjugation and recombination modules and related to the integrative and conjugative element (ICE) ICESt3, were previously found in Streptococcus thermophilus. Here, we show that ICESt3 transfers to a recipient harbouring a similar engineered genomic island, CIMEL3catR3, and integrates by site‐specific recombination into its attachment sites, leading to their accretion. The resulting composite island can excise, showing that ICESt3 mobilizes CIMEL3catR3 in cis. ICESt3, CIMEL3catR3 and the whole composite element can transfer from the strain harbouring the composite structure. The ICESt3 transfer to a recipient bearing CIMEL3catR3 can also lead to retromobilization, i.e. its capture by the donor. This is the first demonstration of specific conjugative mobilization of a genomic island in cis and the first report of ICE‐mediated retromobilization. CIMEL3catR3 would be the prototype of a novel class of non‐autonomous mobile elements (CIMEs: CIs mobilizable elements), which hijack the recombination and conjugation machinery of related ICEs to excise, transfer and integrate. Few genome analyses have shown that CIMEs could be widespread and have revealed internal repeats that could result from accretions in numerous genomic islands, suggesting that accretion and cis mobilization have a key role in evolution of genomic islands.
Vector volume manometry – methods and normal values
Authors: Schizas A. M. P. , Emmanuel A. V. , Williams A. B.
Published: July 2011

Background  Vector volume manometry (VVM) can be used to assess patients with fecal incontinence. The VVM may be performed using a station pull through, or an automated technique. Currently no standard technique or equipment exists to assess anal canal VVM. This study aimed to assess the different techniques to produce repeatable results, and generate normal values for the vector volume profile.

Methods  Anal canal VVM was performed using a water‐perfused system on 12 male and 12 nulliparous female volunteers. Manometry was performed with an automated puller withdrawn at 3 and 25 mm s−1 using a station technique. The VVM profiles were calculated using 4, 8, and 16 channels.

Key Results  The greatest repeatability of vector volume profile was seen with faster puller speed (25 mm s−1) and with an 8‐channel catheter. Men had higher squeeze volumes, maximal squeeze pressure, average squeeze pressure, and squeeze high pressure zone length. Women had a significantly greater anal canal asymmetry on both station and automated pull through at rest and when squeezing. Squeeze vector volume of pressure, mean maximum squeeze pressure, and the average squeeze pressure were significantly higher when calculated using the station technique.

Conclusions & Inferences  The faster puller speed has improved agreement between vector profiles, which is most marked during active contraction. The 8‐channel catheters have the greatest agreement between profiles. There is variation in values between automated manometry and the stationary pull through technique. The improved repeatability in automated VVM for healthy controls should improve its diagnostic utility in patients with incontinence.
Silicon induced resistance against powdery mildew of roses caused by Podosphaera pannosa
Authors: Shetty R. , Jensen B. , Shetty N. P. , Hansen M. , Hansen C. W. , Starkey K. R. , Jørgensen H. J. L.
Published: July 2011

Powdery mildew, caused by Podosphaera pannosa, is a very common disease in greenhouse potted roses, resulting in poor marketing value and hence economic losses. Alternatives to chemical control are necessary, and therefore the ability of silicon (Si) applied to roots to control the disease was investigated, as well as the mechanisms behind the observed disease reductions. Four genotypes of miniature potted roses representing different genetic backgrounds and susceptibility to disease were studied. Plants were watered with a nutrient solution containing either 3·6 mm Si (100 ppm) supplied as K2SiO3 (Si+) or no Si (Si−) before inoculation with P. pannosa. Si application increased leaf Si content two‐ to four‐fold compared to control plants. Confocal microscopy showed that Si deposition was larger in Si+ than in Si− plants and that deposition mainly occurred in the apoplast, particularly in epidermal cell walls. Si application delayed the onset of disease symptoms by 1–2 days and disease severity was reduced by up to 48·9%. The largest reduction was found in the two most resistant genotypes, which also had the highest increase in Si uptake. The Si‐induced disease protection was accompanied by increased formation of papillae and fluorescent epidermal cells (FEC) as well as deposition of callose and H2O2, especially at the sites of penetration and in FEC, which are believed to represent the hypersensitive response. Si treatment reduced powdery mildew development by inducing host defence responses and can therefore be used as an effective eco‐friendly disease control measure.
Specific expression of LATERAL SUPPRESSOR is controlled by an evolutionarily conserved 3′ enhancer
Authors: Raatz Bodo , Eicker Andrea , Schmitz Gregor , Fuss Elisabeth , Müller Dörte , Rossmann Susanne , Theres Klaus
Published: July 2011

Aerial plant architecture is largely based on the activity of axillary meristems (AMs), initiated in the axils of leaves. The Arabidopsis gene LATERAL SUPPRESSOR (LAS), which is expressed in well‐defined domains at the adaxial boundary of leaf primordia, is a key regulator of AM formation. The precise definition of organ boundaries is an essential step for the formation of new organs in general and for meristem initiation; however, mechanisms leading to these specific patterns are not well understood. To increase understanding of how the highly specific transcript accumulation in organ boundary regions is established, we investigated the LAS promoter. Analysis of deletion constructs revealed that an essential enhancer necessary for complementation is situated about 3.2 kb downstream of the LAS open reading frame. This enhancer is sufficient to confer promoter specificity as upstream sequences in LAS could be replaced by non‐specific promoters, such as the 35S minimal promoter. Further promoter swapping experiments using the PISTILLATA or the full 35S promoter demonstrated that the LAS 3′ enhancer also has suppressor functions, largely overwriting the activity of different 5′ promoters. Phylogenetic analyses suggest that LAS function and regulation are evolutionarily highly conserved. Homologous elements in downstream regulatory sequences were found in all LAS orthologs, including grasses. Transcomplementation experiments demonstrated the functional conservation of non‐coding sequences between Solanum lycopersicum (tomato) and Arabidopsis. In summary, our results show that a highly conserved enhancer/suppressor element is the main regulatory module conferring the boundary‐specific expression of LAS.
Advances in stroke care and research in 2010
Authors: Wang Chun‐Juan , Wang Chun‐Xue , Zhang Liqun , Wang Yi‐Long , Wang Yong‐Jun
Published: July 2011

1. There have been many advances in stroke research and care over the past year. The aim of the present review is to highlight the significant advances that are likely to have considerable impact on the direction of future investigations and models of clinical practice.

2. In terms of the acute treatment of stroke, there is now Level I evidence for the use of thrombolysis in the treatment of ischaemic stroke. The results of clinical trials suggest potential new treatments for stroke of inherited origin, whereas other potential treatments have been suggested following the identification of a novel mechanism of emboli clearance by extravasation. Clinical guidelines have also been updated, with tight blood pressure control advocated in cases of acute intracerebral haemorrhage.

3. In terms of stroke prevention, new information has been added to the long‐standing debate regarding the value of carotid stenosis management: the predictive value of asymptomatic carotid emboli may enable the identification of individuals at high risk of stroke. Furthermore, the identification of novel risk factors for stroke opens up new avenues for stroke prevention.

4. Robot‐assisted therapy has heralded a new era in stroke rehabilitation and the ‘Get With The Guidelines’ programme has set a milestone in the quality control of stroke care.

5. Undoubtedly these advances will have a marked impact on future research and clinical practice.
Controversial issues: compartment syndrome, test dose, LOR‐ air/saline, etc
Authors: Mossetti Valeria , Ivani Giorgio
Published: July 2011

The article ‘Controversial issues: compartment syndrome, test dose, LOR‐ air/saline, etc.’ by Valeria Mossetti and Giorgio Ivani (doi:10.1111/j.1460‐9592.2011.03648.x), first published online on 2 July 2011 in Wiley OnlineLibrary (http://www.wileyonlinelibrary.com), has been withdrawn as it is a duplicate of the article entitled ‘Controversial issues in pediatric regional anesthesia’ by Valeria Mossetti and Giorgio Ivani (DOI: 10.1111/j.1460‐9592.2011.03655.x), first published online on 21 July 2011. The Publisher apologises for this error.
Presentation and clinical course of Wolfram (DIDMOAD) syndrome from North India
Authors: Ganie M. A. , Laway B. A. , Nisar S. , Wani M. M. , Khurana M. L. , Ahmad F. , Ahmed S. , Gupta P. , Ali I. , Shabir I. , Shadan A. , Ahmed A. , Tufail S.
Published: July 2011

Diabet. Med. 28, 1337–1342 (2011)

Aims  Wolfram syndrome, also known as DIDMOAD, is a relatively rare inherited neurodegenerative disorder, first evident in childhood as an association of juvenile‐onset diabetes mellitus and optic atrophy, followed by diabetes insipidus and deafness. The aim of the study was to examine the clinical profile of patients with DIDMOAD syndrome presenting to a tertiary care hospital in north India.

Methods  Clinical presentation of juvenile‐onset diabetes mellitus fulfilling the diagnosis of Wolfram syndrome was studied using a prepared standardized form.

Results  Subjects with juvenile‐onset non‐autoimmune diabetes mellitus attending the diabetic clinic at a tertiary care centre in north India were followed for 10 years and a diagnosis of fully developed Wolfram syndrome was confirmed in seven individuals. The series consisted of five male and two female patients with a mean age of 17.5 ± 7.34 years. Two subjects had consanguinity and none had any other family member affected. Optic atrophy was present in all, sensorineural hearing loss in 4/7, central diabetes insipidus in 4/7 and nephrogenic diabetes insipidus in 2/7 subjects. The new associations found were: spastic myoclonus, short stature with pancreatic malabsorption, nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, cyanotic heart disease and choledocholithiasis with cholangitis. Genetic analysis revealed mutation in exon 8 of the WFS1 gene in all the cases studied.

Conclusions  The present clinical series of Wolfram syndrome reveals a varied clinical presentation of the syndrome and some new associations.
Association between vitamin D and diabetic neuropathy in a nationally representative sample: results from 2001–2004 NHANES
Authors: Soderstrom L. H. , Johnson S. P. , Diaz V. A. , Mainous A. G
Published: July 2011

Diabet. Med. 29, 50–55 (2012)

Aims  To evaluate the association between vitamin D insufficiency and peripheral neuropathy in a nationally representative sample of adults with diagnosed diabetes.

Methods  Vitamin D concentrations, medical examination variables and questionnaire results from the 2001–2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were analysed for adults ≥ 40 years old with diagnosed diabetes (unweighted n = 591, weighted n = 8.82 million). Neuropathy was defined as self report of peripheral neuropathy symptoms of painful sensation, tingling, numbness or loss of feeling in hands or feet. Additionally, Semmes–Weinstein monofilament test results were used as an indicator of neuropathy. Insufficient vitamin D was characterized as < 30 ng/ml.

Results  In the weighted population, 81% of adults with diabetes had vitamin D insufficiency. Vitamin D insufficiency was more common among Hispanics (92%) and non‐Hispanic black people (98%) than among non‐Hispanic white people (76%). Within the 3 months preceding the questionnaire, 50% reported experiencing pain or numbness (paresthesia) in their hands or feet; 37% reported pain or tingling in hands or feet; and 38% reported numbness or loss of feeling in hands or feet. Eight per cent had 4–6 insensate areas on their feet as determined by the Semmes–Weinstein monofilament test. Logistic regressions demonstrate vitamin D insufficiency is associated with the adjusted composite paresthesia measure (odds ratio 2.12; 95% CI 1.17–3.85) and the adjusted numbness measure (odds ratio 2.04; 95% CI 1.18–3.52).

Conclusions  Vitamin D insufficiency is associated with self‐reported peripheral neuropathy symptoms even after adjusting for demographic factors, obesity, co‐morbidities, use of medications for neuropathy and diabetes duration and control.
DOES RAISING THE SCHOOL LEAVING AGE REDUCE TEACHER EFFORT? EVIDENCE FROM A POLICY EXPERIMENT
Authors: GREEN COLIN , NAVARRO PANIAGUA MARÍA
Published: July 2011

This paper examines the effect of an increase in the compulsory school leaving age on a measure of high school teachers' effort. Differences‐in‐Differences estimates using count data methods demonstrate that the policy led to teachers increasing their hours of sickness absence by roughly 15%. This result implies that raising the compulsory school leaving age reduces teaching inputs, and hence schooling quality. A policy implication is that these laws should be coupled with measures to compensate teachers for the additional disutility. This also suggests that instrumental variable estimates of returns to education that utilize these changes for identification may be downwardly biased. (JEL J22, J38)
Working memory and response inhibition in children and adolescents: Age and organization issues
Authors: LAMBEK RIKKE , SHEVLIN MARK
Published: July 2011

Lambek, R. & Shevlin, M. (2011). Working memory and response inhibition in children and adolescents: Age and organization issues.Scandinavian Journal of Psychology 52, 427–432.

The aim of the present study was to examine the role of age in the organization of verbal working memory, visuospatial working memory and inhibition; specifically whether these constructs could be considered unitary or separate in children aged 7 to 12 years (n= 164) and in adolescents aged 13 to 16 years (n= 75) using a multi‐group confirmatory factor analysis. Results suggested that verbal working memory, visuospatial working memory and inhibition improved from childhood to adolescence. However, improvement was not followed by a change in the organization of these components. Verbal working memory, visuospatial working memory and inhibition constituted separable but associated constructs in children and in adolescents.
KORSGAARD'S REJECTION OF CONSEQUENTIALISM
Authors: CUMMISKEY DAVID
Published: July 2011

Abstract: In her recent book Self‐Constitution: Agency, Identity, and Integrity, Christine Korsgaard does a wonderful job developing her Kantian account of normativity and the rational necessity of morality. Korsgaard's account of normativity, however, has received its fair share of attention. In this discussion, the focus is on the resulting moral theory and, in particular, on Korsgaard's reason for rejecting consequentialist moral theories. The article suggests that we assume that Korsgaard's vindication of Kantian rationalism is successful and ask whether, nonetheless, her account is consistent with consequentialism. It suggests further that we grant that moral reasons are not based on substantive principles, and that they must instead emerge from the purely formal principles of practical reason. Can consequentialist principles nonetheless emerge from the formal constraints of practical reason? Why can't a consequentialist embrace Korsgaard's account of self‐constitution and normativity?
NATURAL GOODNESS, RIGHTNESS, AND THE INTERSUBJECTIVITY OF REASON: REPLY TO ARROYO, CUMMISKEY, MOLAND, AND BIRD‐POLLAN
Authors: KORSGAARD CHRISTINE M.
Published: July 2011

Abstract: In response to Arroyo, I explain my position on the concept of “natural goodness” and how my use of that concept compares to that of Geach and Foot. An Aristotelian or functional notion of goodness provides the material for Kantian endorsement in a theory of value that avoids a metaphysical commitment to intrinsic values. In response to Cummiskey, I review reasons for thinking Kantianism and consequentialism incompatible, especially those objections to aggregation that arise from the notion of the natural good previously described. In response to Moland, I explain why I think Hegelian worries about the supposed emptiness of the Kantian self do not apply to my account. And in response to both Moland and Bird‐Pollan, I argue that, contrary to the view of some Hegelians, the intersubjective normativity of reason is not something developed through actual social relations; rather, it is something essential to an individual's relations with himself or herself.
TRUST: ON THE REAL BUT ALMOST ALWAYS UNNOTICED, EVER‐CHANGING FOUNDATION OF ETHICAL LIFE
Authors: BERNSTEIN J. M.
Published: July 2011

Abstract: Following the lead of Annette Baier, this essay argues that trust relations provide the ethical substance of everyday living. When A trusts B, A unreflectively allows B to approach sufficiently close so as to be able to harm A. In order for this to be possible, A practically presupposes that B perceives A as a person and will hence act accordingly. Trust relations are relations of mutual recognition in which we acknowledge our mutual standing and vulnerability with respect to one another. A robust account of trust assumes: first, trust relations are primary and practical, and while monitored by reason, they are not rationally constituted; second, trust can sustain its practical primacy over moral reason because it is developmentally prior to reason; and third, trust relations can be the bearers of our worth and vulnerability because they are the developmental products of first love.
EVOLUTION, NATURALISM, AND THE WORTHWHILE: A CRITIQUE OF RICHARD JOYCE'S EVOLUTIONARY DEBUNKING OF MORALITY
Authors: TONER CHRISTOPHER
Published: July 2011

Abstract: In The Evolution of Morality, Richard Joyce argues there is good reason to think that the “moral sense” is a biological adaptation, and that this provides a genealogy of the moral sense that has a debunking effect, driving us to the conclusion that “our moral beliefs are products of a process that is entirely independent of their truth, … we have no grounds one way or the other for maintaining these beliefs.” I argue that Joyce's skeptical conclusion is not warranted. Even if the moral sense is a biological adaptation, developed moralities (such as Aristotelian eudaimonism) can “co‐opt” it into new roles so that the moral judgments it makes possible can come to transcend the evolutionary process that is “entirely independent of their truth.” While evolutionary theory can shed much light on our shared human nature, moral theories must still be vindicated, or debunked, by moral arguments.
Creative Commons Licences, the Copyright Regime and the Online Community: Is there a Fatal Disconnect?
Authors: Corbett Susan
Published: July 2011

Creative works on the Internet (online works) present challenges to the traditional copyright model. Creative Commons licences are one response to these challenges. Despite the many positive features of Creative Commons licences, certain aspects have attracted criticism. The flaws in Creative Commons licences are a symptom of a broader failure of the copyright system itself to engage with the community. Creative Commons licences operate within the traditional copyright model, despite having some resonance with a developing copyright paradigm. Yet many concepts of copyright are not understood by the wider community; indeed, some remain a source of ongoing debate within the legal academy. Furthermore, there is evidence that community norms and expectations in relation to online works conflict with the legal environment provided by copyright law. The author argues that until these issues are addressed, an attempt to reconceptualise the legal environment by working within its constraints is unlikely to be successful.
Guiding Principles for Directorial Conflicts of Interest: Re Allied Business and Financial Consultants Ltd; O'Donnell v Shanahan
Authors: Ahern Deirdre
Published: July 2011

The Court of Appeal has disposed of the ‘scope of business’ test as the touchstone principle for directorial entrepreneurship cases and has confirmed the continuing applicability of a capacity approach while emphasising the importance of directors obtaining the company's informed consent before taking up opportunities that they encounter. This provides welcome legal certainty but raises interesting questions about the scope of a director's disclosure obligations.
Public or Personal Character in Election Campaigns: A Review of the Implications of the Judgment in Watkins v Woolas
Authors: Hoar Francis
Published: July 2011

Reviewing the Election Court's decision that a candidate's parliamentary election literature was unlawful under the Representation of the People Act, the Divisional Court held that statements could either be about a candidate's public character or his personal character but not both. Though the legislation was compatible with the ECHR if it penalised only the latter, the question for the courts is really a matter of whether statement impugns a candidate's character more than merely as a necessary implication of an allegation regarding conduct such as the breaking of election promises.
Tripartite consultation: an emergent form of governance shaping employment relations in China
Authors: Shao Sijun , Nyland Chris , Zhu Cherrie Jiuhua
Published: July 2011

This article examines China's approach to industrial consultation by examining six tripartite bodies at the national, provincial and county levels. It argues that the institutionalisation of tripartitism is consistent with China's overall approach to market reform being characterised by experimentalism, gradualism, dynamism and a gradual softening of party domination. Despite limitations, it is accepted that China is building a transition tripartite system that is bolstering the autonomy and representational capacity of the social partners.
Healthy and tasty school snacks: suggestions from Brazilian children consumers
Authors: Kuntz Marilyn G.F. , Fiates Giovanna M.R. , Teixeira Evanilda
Published: July 2011

Children do not choose what to eat based on health issues alone, and the high availability of non‐nutritious food in the environment can be a barrier to the consumption of healthy foods. Brazilian children are consuming processed, savoury, rich in fat, sodium and refined carbohydrates rather than more nutrient‐dense foods. Foods offered in public school meals and those sold in private school canteens in Brazil are subject to regulation, but not the snacks brought from home. This study identified the suggestions of public and private school students about the characteristics that a snack should present in order to be considered both healthy and palatable. A qualitative exploratory study using focus groups was conducted with 128 primary school students aged 7–10 years old. Interviews were transcribed and content analysis was conducted, generating three categories: (1) foods actually consumed during snack breaks; (2) examples of foods considered healthy and/or tasty for consumption during snack breaks; and (3) desired characteristics of a healthy and tasty snack. Foods of high energy density and low nutritional value were mentioned as the most consumed snacks, usually brought from home or purchased within/near the schools. Consumption of meals offered by the National School Meal Program was reported by only one‐third of the public school students. Fruits, natural juices and vegetables were considered healthy foods; sweet‐tasting preparations containing fruits were considered tasty; while fruits and natural fruit juices were considered both healthy and tasty. Sweet‐tasting preparations containing fruits were mentioned as examples of snacks with the desired healthy/tasty characteristics. The disparity between what was actually consumed and what was reported as ideal leads us to question the availability in retail stores of healthy yet palatable foods that meet this population's desires.
Chinese Movies and History Education: The Case of Zhang Yimou’s ‘To Live’
Authors: Mungur Amy
Published: July 2011

Using film to promote historical understanding is not a new phenomenon. However, such use presents difficulty when dealing with non‐Western history, as sufficient care must be given to not engender historical misunderstanding and the reinforcement of stereotypes. Much of the research on teaching with film centers on Hollywood productions that typically embody a Western perspective. The problem is compounded by the fact that textbooks used in American classrooms offer only a limited presentation of such critical events in modern Chinese history as the Chinese Civil War, the Great Leap Forward, and the Cultural Revolution. Teachers can therefore greatly benefit from the use of additional background materials to teach this content more effectively. Using existing research on film in the classroom, this paper explores briefly the histories represented in some popular Chinese film, with a specific focus on Zhang Yimou’s To Live. It discusses how use of this film in particular can be used to assist students in constructing historical knowledge and understanding about China.
Deciding to Persist: Adversity, Values, and Entrepreneurs’ Decision Policies
Authors: Holland Daniel V. , Shepherd Dean A.
Published: July 2011

Entrepreneurial persistence occurs when the entrepreneur chooses to continue with an entrepreneurial opportunity regardless of counterinfluences or enticing alternatives. The decision to persist is influenced by personal characteristics and by feedback from the environment relative to thresholds. Using a conjoint experiment, we investigate how adversity and values influence the weight placed on the decision attributes for the persistence decisions of 100 entrepreneurs. The findings suggest that the persistence decision policies are heterogeneous depending on the level of adversity experienced and the individual values held by the entrepreneurs. The results provide interesting insights into why and how entrepreneurs choose to persist.