bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Homoclime analysis and the prediction of weediness
Authors: PANETTA F. D. , MITCHELL N. D.
Published: September 2010

Homoclime analysis of three weed species of potential significance to agriculture in New Zealand was undertaken. Using the Bio‐climate Prediction System computer program (BIOCLIM), climatically suitable regions in New Zealand were estimated for Homeria flaccida Sweet, Chondrilla juncea L. and Emex australis Steinh., on the basis of their respective distributions in Australia. These estimates indicated that the current eradication campaign for Homeria is warranted, owing to the existence of extensive areas with a suitable climate on both of New Zealand's main islands. For Homeria, most of the known occurrences fell within regions predicted to be climatically suitable. For Chondrilla, only very small areas were predicted to be climatically suitable, due to the generally low temperatures that prevail during its reproductive period. This suggests that the designation of Chondrilla as a quarantine pest may be unwarranted. Much of the land in the interior of the North Island was estimated to be climatically suitable for Emex. However, invasion has not occurred, despite the presence of this weed in New Zealand for over 100 years. The failure of Emex to invade perennial pastures is probably a result of its poor competitiveness, since climatic and edaphic characteristics appear to be suitable over large areas. It is concluded that homoclime analysis can be used to identify regions at risk of invasion by a species which has been weedy elsewhere, when potentially modifying factors such as soils, land use/management practices and competitive interactions are taken into account.
The interaction between planting depth of four winter wheat cultivars, Alopecurus myosuroides Huds. and Bromus sterilis L. and their susceptibility to post‐emergence applications of isoproturon and chlorotoluron
Authors: BLAIR A. M. , MARTIN T. D. , BRAIN P. , COTTERILL E. G.
Published: September 2010

Seeds of four winter wheat cultivars, Slejpner, Galahad, Avalon and Penman, were sown at depths ranging from 6–75 mm in soil in pots, and isoproturon or chlorotoluron was then applied to the soil surface. For chlorotoluron‐treated plants (both pre‐ and post‐emergence) the dose required to produce a 50% effect (ED50) was unaffected by depth of planting. In contrast, for isoproturon applied pre‐emergence, the ED50 for both Avalon and Slejpner was strongly affected by sowing depth. Although chlorotoluron was much more active in a second experiment when applied post‐emergence to Slejpner wheat, the ED50 for both herbicides increased with greater depth of sowing. Protection of wheat from isoproturon damage by deeper planting was enhanced if the adsorption capacity of the soil was raised from Kd 0.5 to 2.0 by incorporation of activated charcoal in the soil. Isoproturon entry into plants (as measured by the effect on rate of photosynthesis) was slower in those that had been sown deeper and were growing in more adsorptive soils, but there was no obvious relationship between these observations and isoproturon distribution in the soil profile. In nutrient culture the four wheat cultivars responded similarly to a range of doses of isoproturon. The chlorotoluron‐sensitive cultivars, Slejpner and Galahad, were damaged by much lower doses of chlorotoluron than were Avalon and Penman. Bromus sterilis L. responded similarly to wheat with regard to its interaction with isoproturon and planting depth. Alopecurus myosuroides Huds., however, was less damaged by isoproturon when the zone above the seed was protected from the herbicide by growing the shoot through a plastic straw.
The influence of leaf blade, nutrients, water and light on the promotion of axillary bud growth of isolated single‐node stem segments of Paspalum distichum L
Authors: LIU S.H. , HSIAO A.I. , QUICK W.A.
Published: September 2010

The presence of the leaf blade for 5 days or longer on isolated single‐node stem segments of Paspalum distichum with an adequate supply of nutrients, water and light, produced better axillary bud growth than was observed on those segments without the leaf blade. Presence or absence of the leaf blade had no effect on segments in distilled water. Segments in Hoagland's solution of any strength exhibited significantly more growth than those in distilled water. In one‐half or full‐strength Hoagland's solution, segments generally showed signifi cantly more growth than segments in lower strength solutions. Segments subjected to flooding, daily watering, submergence or hydro‐ponic treatments exhibited significantly more growth than the segments that were watered every 3 days. Segments with the leaf blade retained, and those exposed to constant light, showed significantly better growth than segments without an attached leaf blade, or without light. It is concluded that the interactions between leaf blade, water, nutrients and light, which favoured photosynthesis and reduced transpiration, increased axillary bud growth. This interaction may provide a survival mechanism for isolated stems of P. distichum, assisting its rapid spread in wetlands.
Germination of seeds from plants of Avenafatua L. treated with glyphosate
Authors: SHUMA J. M. , QUICK W. A. , RAJU M. V. S. , HSIAO A. I.
Published: September 2010

Glyphosate was applied at four rates under greenhouse conditions to Avena fatua L. plants at four stages of seed development. Application at anthesis completely prevented the formation of viable seeds. Application five days after anthesis (DAA) of the terminal floret of the panicle significantly reduced seed production at all herbi‐cide rates used, and at 1.76 kg a.i. ha‐1 no viable seeds were produced. When applied 10 DAA, only the highest rate of glyphosate resulted in substantial reduction in number of primary seeds, but seed viability suffered at all herbicide levels. Glyphosate applied 15 DAA still produced a significant decrease in primary and secondary seed production and biomass. Both the viability and the germination rate of seeds from treated plants were significantly affected. When the herbicide was applied to plants 5 DAA, no viable seeds were produced by plants surviving the highest rate, and all rates significantly reduced germination. Glyphosate applied 10 DAA significantly suppressed germination, with 1.76 kg a.i. ha‐1 being the most effective rate. When applied to plants 15 DAA, only the highest rate of glyphosate significantly affected the overall germination of both primary and secondary seeds, but the normal imposition of dormancy was partially blocked in seeds from plants treated with 0.44 and 0.88 kg a.i. ha‐1. These findings are relevant to chemical summerfallow and crop desiccation practices.
Dégradation de l'isoproturon et disponibilité de ses résidus dans le sol
Authors: PERRIN‐GANIER C. , SCHIAVON M. , PORTAL J.‐M. , BABUT M.
Published: September 2010

La disponibilité et la dégradation de l'isoproturon dans le sol au cours du temps ont étéévaluées pendant 140 jours dans une expérience de laboratoire en conditions contrôlées à l'aide de la molécule marquée au 14C sur le cycle. L'état de dégradation de la matière active a été suivi: après 65 jours, l'isoproturon extractible ne représente plus qu'une très faible part (0,6%). Le monodéméthyl‐isoproturon est mesurable dès le 15ème jour (2,6%). La mesure du 14CO2 provenant de la dégradation du cycle benzénique et dégagé au cours du temps donne un total de 13,6% d'isoproturon minéralisés durant l'incubation. Parallèlement, les quantités de résidus extractibles (par l'eau puis par le méthanol) ou subsistant dans le sol quelle que soit leur forme (dosage par combustion) ont été successivement mesurées. Après 140 jours, 72% de la radioactivité apportée se trouve sous forme non extractible dans le sol. La demi‐vie de la matière active isoproturon extractible est estimée à 14 jours.
An assessment, using a modelling approach, of inbreeding as a possible cause of reduced competitiveness in triazine‐resistant weeds
Authors: MADDEN A. D.
Published: September 2010

It is widely assumed that organisms that evolve resistance to a triazine suffer from a fitness deficit in the absence of that herbicide. Arguments for this view are examined, and previously published evidence is discussed. A simple model was developed to examine the genetics of resistance in triazine‐resistant plants, based on the assumption that a founder effect is in operation. The model examined the hypothesis that the extent to which plants in the sprayed population are related will increase rapidly under continual selection, even when there is a significant input of genes from non‐selected populations. The possible consequences of the above hypothesis on the validity of competition experiments are discussed.
Dégradation du chlorimuron‐éthyle déposé sur divers minéraux et sur acides humiques
Authors: SABADIE J.
Published: September 2010

La dégradation chimique du chlorimuron‐éthyle et du chlorimuron a étéétudiée à 30°C au contact de quatre solides minéraux secs (kaolin, silice, bentonite H+, montmorillonite K10) et d'acides humiques solides. Dans tous les cas, on observe la coupure de la fonction sulfonylurée de la molécule conformément au processus précédemment observé en solution aqueuse acide. La cyclisation en saccharine du phényl‐sulfonamide formé n'est observée qu'au contact des minéraux peu acides (kaolin, silice) tandis que la pyrimidamine. autre produit d'hydrolyse, présente une certaine affinité pour les solides minéraux plus acides (bentonite H+, montmorillonite K10) et les acides humiques.
Discovery of an isolate of Fusarium oxysporum with potential to control Striga hermonthica in Africa
Authors: CIOTOLA M. , WATSON A. K. , HALLETT S. G.
Published: September 2010

Native fungi of West Africa were evaluated as a means to control Striga hermonthica (Del.) Benth., a troublesome parasitic weed of several gramineous crops. An isolate of Fusarium oxysporum, grown on sorghum straw and incorporated into pots, successfully prevented all emergence of S. hermonthica, and resulted in a 400% increase of sorghum dry weight. The fungus inhibited germination and attachment of S. hermonthica to sorghum roots in Plexiglas root chambers. Several crop species, including sorghum, inoculated with the fungus showed neither any disease symptoms nor any reduction in biomass.
Impact of post‐emergence herbicides on weed community diversity within conservation‐tillage systems
Authors: DERKSEN D. A. , THOMAS A. G. , LAFOND G. P. , LOEPPKY H. A. , SWANTON C.J.
Published: September 2010

The influence of herbicides on weed community dynamics is an issue of agroecological concern. A field study was initiated in 1986 with zero‐, minimum‐, and conventional‐tillage systems. In 1989 and 1990, the fourth and fifth years of study, weed community diversity and relative composition were assessed prior to and following the application of post‐emergence non‐residual herbicides. Weed communities were assessed at the level of tillage system to balance the effect of different crop sequences and crop‐herbicide combinations within each comparison. In general, herbicides did not reduce community diversity when compared by Shannon's H’and dominance‐diversity curves. An increase in species richness and evenness, as assessed by Shannon's E and Margalef's DMG occurred in some cases. Differences in relative community composition among tillage systems were apparent before the application of herbicides, but disappeared following herbicide application. The use of herbicides in this study reduced weed densities, maintained weed diversity, and inhibited community changes that were due to changing tillage systems.
Growth and yield responses of Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum) to diclofop‐methyl and ozone
Authors: MARTÍNEZ‐GHERSA M A , OLSZYK D , RADOSEVICH S R
Published: September 2010

We evaluated the combined effects of diclofop‐methyl herbicide application and the air pollutant ozone (O3) on diclofop‐methyl‐resistant and ‐susceptible biotypes of Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum). We conducted two experiments, one with a long vegetative growth period and the other with a short vegetative growth in late spring with seed production in summer. As expected, because of its phytotoxicity, the herbicide alone reduced total vegetative biomass, leaf area, tiller number and seed production at most sampling periods in susceptible plants for both experiments. However, it had variable effects on resistant plants, including a positive effect on seed production. Ozone alone delayed vegetative biomass accumulation and reduced leaf area and seed biomass in both experiments. However, the effects of O3 on some parameters were altered by herbicide rate and/or biotype. Especially notable was a greater reduction in seed biomass because of O3 in resistant than in susceptible plants with no herbicide. If these apparent differential responses to herbicide and O3 stress of susceptible and resistant plants are confirmed and persist over time, evolutionary tradeoffs may occur. For example, the frequency of resistant plants in a population may be altered in response to interactions between herbicides and other anthropogenic stresses.
Apera spica‐venti population dynamics and impact on crop yield as affected by tillage, crop rotation, location and herbicide programmes
Authors: MELANDER B , HOLST N , JENSEN P K , HANSEN E M , OLESEN J E
Published: September 2010

Apera spica‐venti is a winter annual grass and, increasingly, a severe weed problem in autumn‐sown crops. Non‐inversion tillage has become more common in Denmark in recent years, but may accentuate problems with A. spica‐venti. These problems may be avoided, if selected preventive and cultural weed management practices are adopted. To this end, we conducted a 4‐year field study investigating the effects of crop rotation, tillage method, location and limited herbicide input on A. spica‐venti population dynamics and crop yield. Additionally, detailed studies were performed on the fate of A. spica‐venti seeds when incorporated to different soil depths. The location with a lighter soil texture, cooler climate and higher rainfall favoured A. spica‐venti growth and consequently crop yield loss, especially in the crop sequence comprised only of autumn‐sown crops and with non‐inversion tine tillage. Incorporating A. spica‐venti seeds in the soil improved their survival, explaining the higher A. spica‐venti proliferation seen with tine tillage as opposed to direct drilling. The rotations including an even mixture of spring‐ and autumn‐sown crops did not lead to noteworthy changes in the A. spica‐venti population, irrespective of tillage method. Thus, in many regions, management of A. spica‐venti will require rotations that balance autumn‐ and spring‐sown crops.
Multispectral classification of grass weeds and wheat (Triticum durum) using linear and nonparametric functional discriminant analysis and neural networks
Authors: LÓPEZ‐GRANADOS F , PEÑA‐BARRAGÁN J M , JURADO‐EXPÓSITO M , Francisco‐FERNÁNDEZ M , CAO R , ALONSO‐BETANZOS A , FONTENLA‐ROMERO O
Published: September 2010

Field studies were conducted to determine the potential of multispectral classification of late‐season grass weeds in wheat. Several classification techniques have been used to discriminate differences in reflectance between wheat andAvena sterilis,Phalaris brachystachys,Lolium rigidumandPolypogon monspeliensisin the 400–900 nm spectrum, and to evaluate the accuracy of performance for a spectral signature classification into the plant species or group to which it belongs. Fisher’s linear discriminant analysis, nonparametric functional discriminant analysis and several neural networks have been applied, either with a preliminary principal component analysis (PCA) or not and in different scenarios. Fisher’s linear discriminant analysis, feedforward neural networks and one‐layer neural network, all showed classification percentages between 90% and 100% with PCA. Generally, a preliminary computation of the most relevant principal components considerably improves the correct classification percentage. These results are promising becauseA. sterilisandL. rigidum, two of the most problematic, clearly patchy and expensive‐to‐control weeds in wheat, could be successfully discriminated from wheat in the 400–900 nm range. Our results suggest that mapping grass weed patches in wheat could be feasible with analysis of real‐time and high‐resolution satellite imagery acquired in mid‐May under these conditions.
Influence of application volume on the efficacy of clodinafop‐propargyl and fenoxaprop‐P‐ethyl on oats
Authors: GAUVRIT C , LAMRANI T
Published: September 2010

The influence of application volume on the efficacy of clodinafop‐propargyl and fenoxaprop‐P‐ethyl on cultivated oats (Avena sativa) was studied in the glasshouse. Both herbicides were more efficacious when applied in 75 L ha−1 than in 300 L ha−1, with 11002 and 11006 nozzles respectively. However, when the same two volume rates were created by varying the speed of a 11003 nozzle, clodinafop‐propargyl efficacy was not affected by application volume, whereas fenoxaprop‐P‐ethyl remained more efficacious at 75 L ha−1. This suggests that in the first experiment, fenoxaprop‐P‐ethyl efficacy was affected by changes in both spray quality and concentration, whereas only the former influenced clodinafop‐propargyl efficacy. The hypothesis that the fenoxaprop‐P‐ethyl formulation was more influenced by concentration than clodinafop‐propargyl was supported by dynamic surface tension studies and measures of active ingredient retention by oat plants. Within the practically relevant concentration range considered, surface activity of clodinafop‐propargyl remained low, with little influence on herbicide retention. In contrast, depending on the concentration, surface activity of fenoxaprop‐P‐ethyl was below or above levels that were critical for its retention. Although these differences may not be as apparent in the field as in the glasshouse, our study certainly indicates that both clodinafop‐propargyl and fenoxaprop‐P‐ethyl are herbicides favoured by low application volumes.
Identification of sources of resistance to crenate broomrape (Orobanche crenata) in Spanish lentil (Lens culinaris) germplasm
Authors: FERNÁNDEZ‐APARICIO M , SILLERO J C , PÉREZ‐DE‐LUQUE A , RUBIALES D
Published: September 2010

The weedy root parasite Orobanche crenata constitutes a serious threat to lentils and other legumes grown in the Mediterranean and western Asia. Control strategies have centred on agronomic practices and the use of herbicides. Resistance breeding is hampered by scarcity of proper sources of resistance and of a reliable and practical screening procedure. A stepwise procedure was used here. A Spanish germplasm collection of 234 accessions of lentils (Lens culinaris) was screened for resistance to crenate broomrape under field conditions. A wide range of responses was observed, however, complete resistance was not detected. Some accessions exhibited a substantial reduction in broomrape infection. Thirty‐five lentil accessions with reduced broomrape infection were selected for further screening in the field and to determine the components of resistance in pot and in mini‐rhizotron experiments. Low infection seemed to be based on a combination of various escape and resistance mechanisms: (i) a lower root density, (ii) a lower induction of Orobanche seed germination, (iii) the reduced establishment of broomrape radicles and (iv) a limited development of established tubercles. In addition, necrosis of tubercles was observed in some accessions. This study shows how complementary in vitro screening methods may be used to rank and identify lentil accessions with potential broomrape resistance, based on different resistance mechanisms which may in the future be combined into a single cultivar by breeding.
Effects of human‐mediated processes on weed species composition in internationally traded grain commodities
Authors: SHIMONO Y , KONUMA A
Published: September 2010

International trade is a major route by which non‐indigenous organisms are introduced into new habitats. Various kinds of weed seeds have been introduced through grain trade. The objectives of this study were to understand the factors that affect the initial assemblage of plant species introduced by the international grain trade and to extract their general attributes. We surveyed weed seed contamination of spring wheat imported from Canada to Japan and analysed the effects of the field abundance of each weed and of harvesting and cleaning on the quantity of weed seed included in the imported wheat. The field abundance was positively correlated with the weed seed quantity. Seeds of short weeds and seeds with a pappus were eliminated from the wheat by the harvesting or cleaning process. Many other crop plants contaminated the wheat. Because various transportation vehicles, temporary storage sites and port elevators are used commonly with all exported crops and it is difficult to remove all residues from them, other crops might be carried over into the wheat commodity. These relationships also apply to other grains.
Preemptive liver transplantation in a child with familial hypercholesterolemia
Authors: Maiorana Arianna , Nobili Valerio , Calandra Sebastiano , Francalanci Paola , Bernabei Silvia , El Hachem Maya , Monti Lidia , Gennari Fabrizio , Torre Giuliano , de Ville de Goyet Jean , Bartuli Andrea
Published: September 2010

Maiorana A, Nobili V, Calandra S, Francalanci P, Bernabei S, El Hachem M, Monti L, Gennari F, Torre G, de Ville de Goyet J, Bartuli A. Preemptive liver transplantation in a child with familial hypercholesterolemia. Pediatr Transplantation 2011: 15:E25–E29. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Familial hypercholesterolemia is an autosomal codominant disorder associated with markedly elevated plasma concentration of LDL‐cholesterol and increased cardiovascular risk. Homozygous patients have rapid development of atherosclerosis with death from cardiovascular disease even in childhood. Life‐long recurrent apheresis to reduce plasma LDL‐cholesterol is considered the gold standard for treatment. Liver transplantation can be curative for this condition, but is usually only considered after the development of cardiovascular disease. We report a 5.5‐yr‐old child initially misdiagnosed with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia and treated by low‐fat diet only. In view of persistent hypercholesterolemia and development of xanthomatosis, new molecular studies indicated the presence of two different mutations in the LDL receptor gene, with one being a deletion of two exons not identifiable with standard sequencing analysis. Recurrent plasma apheresis in combination with statins lowered, but did not normalize plasma LDL‐cholesterol levels. It caused progressive reduction of the size of xanthomas and prevented the development of vascular complications. After two yr, liver transplantation normalized LDL‐cholesterol levels and completely resolved the skin lesions. Preemptive liver transplantation is a definitive cure of familial homozygous hypercholesterolemia and might be more effective if performed before development of vascular complications.
Coagulation in xenotransplantation
Authors: Ramackers W. , Friedrich L. , Tiede A. , Schuettler W. , Bergmann S. , Broecker V. , Schwinzer R. , Winkler M.
Published: September 2010

Following either discordant transplantation of porcine organs into primate recipients or after ex vivo perfusion of porcine organs with human blood, a profound activation of the primate/human blood coagulation can be observed. This activation may result in thrombotic microangiopathy and changes of coagulation resembling disseminated intravascular coagulation with subsequent death of the recipient animals. There are several factors contributing to this pathology including endothelial cell activation, activation of human blood cells, thrombocyte activation and incompatibilities of molecules regarding to control coagulation. Several potentially important molecular incompatibilities between the porcine and the primate coagulation system have been noted: The inability of porcine tissue factor pathway inhibitor (TFPI) to adequately neutralize human factor Xa (FXa), the aberrant activation of both human prothrombin and FX by porcine endothelial cells and the failure of the porcine natural anticoagulant thrombomodulin to activate the anti‐coagulant human protein C. Normal hemostasis is a complex balance between pro‐ and antithrombotic pathways. These pathways are balanced by inhibitory systems including the heparin‐antithrombin interaction, TFPI, the generation of activated protein C by a proper thrombomodulin/thrombin interaction and the fibrinolytic system. To achieve normal haemostasis after xenotransplantation it is important to overcome the known molecular incompatibilities (i.e. by transgenic organs) and to reliably prevent the derangement of coagulation.
Nonviral gene transfer for cancer gene therapy
Authors: Walther W. , Fichtner I. , Kobelt D. , Siegel R. , Schlag P. , Stein U.
Published: September 2010

Although the pre‐clinical and clinical results of gene therapy have shown promise for some cancers, cancer gene therapy is still at an early stage of clinical development. Due to the complexity of targeted vector delivery to the tumor, our strategy for gene therapy is focussed on the development of local non‐viral gene transfer to treat tumors. The local application of non‐viral gene therapy is of particular value in the context of pre‐ or intraoperative application of therapeutic genes. This ensures accessibility of targeted tumor areas and will contribute to better local control of the disease. In this regard, applicable transfer technologies are needed in gene therapy. Different physical procedures, such as in vivo electroporation, sonoporation, ballistic transfer etc. are employed to deliver naked DNA into the target cells or tissues in vitro and in vivo. Among the various non‐viral gene delivery technologies jet‐injection is gaining increasing acceptance, since this technique allows gene transfer into different tissues with deep penetration of naked DNA. The jet‐injection technology is based on low‐volume jets of high‐velocity to penetrate skin and deeper tissues associated with efficient transfection of the affected area. For non‐viral in vivo gene transfer a jet‐injector prototype was created and tested. The beta‐galactosidase (LacZ), green fluorescence protein reporter gene constructs were successfully jet‐injected into different syngeneic mouse and patient‐derived xenotransplanted human tumor models of colon‐ or mammary carcinoma and malignant melanoma. Qualitative and quantitative expression analysis of jet‐injected tumor tissues revealed the efficient expression of these genes. Therapeutic in vivo experiments using the jet‐injection transfer of the cytosine deaminase suicide gene in tumors demonstrated antitumor effects with significant growth inhibition of the jet‐injected xenotransplanted colon carcinomas. Furthermore, jet‐injection was also successfully used for the application of a heat‐inducible TNF‐α expressing vector system leading to efficient in vivo tumor growth inhibition in the combined non‐viral TNF‐α gene transfer and hyperthermia approach.

Based on our pre‐clinical experiments for non‐viral gene transfer, a phase I clinical trial has been conducted at the Clinic for Surgery and Surgical Oncology, Charité, Berlin to evaluate the feasibility, efficiency, and safety of jet‐injection aided LacZ‐reporter gene transfer in patients with cutaneous metastases from breast cancer and malignant melanoma. In this study naked GMP‐plasmid DNA was applied intratumorally by jet‐injection. The jet‐injection was well tolerated by all patients and no side effects have been experienced. The study clearly demonstrated that the single application of plasmid‐DNA is safe and leads to the expression of the LacZ‐reporter gene in the tumor tissue, as shown at mRNA‐ and at protein level.
Porcine cells express more than one functional ligand for the human lymphocyte activating receptor NKG2D
Authors: Tran Peter D. , Christiansen Dale , Winterhalter Adam , Brooks Andrew , Gorrell Mark , Lilienfeld Benjamin G. , Seebach Jörg D. , Sandrin Mauro , Sharland Alexandra
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  Background:  Xenotransplantation could ameliorate the severe shortage of donor organs. The initial results of transplantation from genetically‐modified pig donors to primate recipients suggest that hyperacute rejection can be overcome, but thrombotic microangiopathy and the human anti‐pig cellular immune response remain as significant impediments to successful clinical xenotransplantation. NKG2D is an activating immunoreceptor found on human natural killer (HuNK) cells, CD8+ and γδ T cells. Signaling through NKG2D mediates cytotoxicity and cytokine secretion by NK cells and co‐stimulation of T cells.

Methods:  Chinese hamster ovary P (CHOP) cells were transfected with human NKG2D and used in cell–cell binding studies with porcine epithelial, and endothelial cell lines. Soluble recombinant NKG2D‐Fc was used to stain various porcine cells and tissues to indicate ligand expression. Porcine cells were used as targets in cytotoxicity assays with the HuNK cell lines NKL and YT, with and without enzymatic removal of pULBP1 and antibody blockade of NKG2D signaling.

Results and conclusions:  In this study, we demonstrate the expression of ligands for human NKG2D on porcine cell lines of endothelial and epithelial origin, islet cell clusters and rejecting kidney. HuNK cells were activated to kill pig cells expressing NKG2D ligands, and cytotoxicity was inhibited by antibody blockade of NKG2D. A previous study identified pULBP1 as the principal ligand for human NKG2D on pig aortic endothelial cells. In the current study, renal epithelial and intestinal endothelial cells each expressed high surface levels of pULBP1, but binding of soluble recombinant NKG2D and NKG2D‐dependent cytotoxicity against these cells persisted after the enzymatic removal of pULBP1, strongly suggesting the presence of at least one additional functional ligand for human NKG2D in these cell types.
A gene influencing seed shape of desi type chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)
Authors: Knights E. J. , Wood J. A. , Harden S.
Published: September 2010

With 1 figure and 1 table

Chickpea is an important food legume in many developing countries. Seed characteristics, especially size, shape and colour, define the two main types (‘desi’ and ‘kabuli’) and also influence the mode of consumption and economic value. We observed two distinct seed shapes in the desi breeding line 9113‐13N‐2, ‘rounded’ and ‘angular’, and sought to demonstrate a genetic basis for this difference. The mode of inheritance was studied in F1, F2 and F3 generations of crosses between rounded and angular single plant progeny from 9113‐13N‐2 and in the F2 generation of another cross between rounded and angular parents. Rounded shape was dominant to angular shape in the F1 generation, and a 3 rounded : 1 angular ratio was observed in the F2 and F3 generations. These results indicated a monogenic inheritance for seed shape in desi chickpeas. Visual differences in shape were confirmed by sphericity measurements: sphericity values for rounded seeds were significantly greater than for angular seeds. We propose the symbols Rd and rd for alleles conferring rounded and angular shape, respectively.
Influence of screw diameter and number on reduction loss after plating of distal radius fractures
Authors: Drobetz Herwig , Schueller Michael , Tschegg Elmar Karl , Heal Clare , Redl Heinz , Muller Reinhold
Published: September 2010

Background:  The current options for plate–screw combinations in volar locking distal radius plates used for the treatment of distal radius fractures are either plates with a single distal screw row or plates with multiple distal screw rows. Additionally, the screws themselves may have either fixed angle locking or polyaxial locking mechanisms. To date, there is no evidence or consensus regarding the optimal plate–screw combination. The aim of this study was to assess the biomechanical behaviour of different plate–screw combinations with respect to total distal screw number, number of distal screw rows and screw projection surface area of the most distal row.

Methods:  Biomechanical study to assess six different plating configurations in five different volar locking plate models in a Sawbone distal radius fracture model. The specimens were loaded with 800 Newton loads for 2.000 cycles at 1 Hz. After cyclic loading, load‐to‐failure testing was performed.

Results:  With cyclical testing, there was a significant and positive correlation between rigidity and a greater projection area of the most distal screws. Dorsal tilting was significantly more pronounced in plate models with a lesser projection area of the most distal screws and a smaller number of distal screws. With load‐to‐failure testing, there was a significant increase in rigidity with increasing screw projection area of the most distal row and total number of distal screws.

Conclusions:  Additional distal screw rows in volar locking distal radius plates might not add substantially to resistance against loss of reduction in the post‐operative period.
Significance of sentinel infective events in haematogenous prosthetic knee infections
Authors: Swan John , Dowsey Michelle , Babazadeh Sina , Mandaleson Avanthi , Choong Peter F. M.
Published: September 2010

Background:  Infection after primary knee arthroplasty is devastating. The aim of this study was to determine the significance of sentinel infective events prior to the development of haematogenous prosthetic knee infection.

Methods:  A retrospective single‐centre case control study of 1641 primary knee arthroplasties was conducted between 1998 and 2006. Seventeen haematogenous prosthesis infections were identified and were matched with 51 controls. Perioperative data were collected prospectively, and co‐morbidities, infection parameters and sentinel events were collected from patient files and questionnaires. Analysis was performed between controls and the 17 haematogenous infections.

Results:  The overall prosthetic infection rate was 2.2%. Acute infections accounted for 1.2% with late haematogenous accounting for 1%. The mean time to infection in the haematogenous infection group was 2.3 years (range 3 months to 11 years), and the mean follow‐up was 3.8 years (range 7 months to 11 years). Significant risk factors included the number of co‐morbidities (relative risk 3.4) and a sentinel event of cellulitis (relative risk 2.7). Fifteen of 17 cases described a sentinel event prior to infection compared with 31 of 51 controls (P= 0.041). The commonest preceding event was skin or soft tissue infection in nine (53%) cases. The most common infecting organism was Staphylococcus aureus in 12 patients (four methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus, eight methicillin‐sensitive Staphylococcus aureus).

Conclusions:  Fifteen of 17 (88%) patients who developed late haematogenous infection had a preceding sentinel event with the commonest source being skin and soft tissue infection. Haematogenous infections are more likely to occur in patients with multiple co‐morbidities.
Impact of Parthenium hysterophorus on grazing land communities in north‐eastern Ethiopia
Authors: NIGATU LISANEWORK , HASSEN ASRESIE , SHARMA JANMEJAI , ADKINS STEVE W.
Published: September 2010

An investigation into the impact of Parthenium hysterophorus infestation was conducted in 2007 in the north‐eastern grazing lands of Ethiopia. Data on the above‐ground and seedbank species diversity were collected from five areas, each having sites with low, medium, or high levels of weed infestation. A total of 72 species was found in all areas. They were categorized into grass species (23), other species (48), or P. hysterophorus for ease of interpretation. A regression analysis showed a highly significant, but negative, relationship between the above‐ground species diversity and evenness with P. hysterophorus abundance. The mean cover abundance for the three infestation levels was 33.4% for P. hysterophorus, 41.0% for the grass species, and 26.5% for the other species. The most dominant grass species under all infestation levels were Cynodon dactylon, Urochloa panicoides, and Chloris gayana, while Andropogon abyssinicus and Eragrostis spp. were dominant under the low and medium infestation levels, respectively, and Hyparrhenia hirta was dominant under the low infestation level. Among the other species, Solanum nigrum was the most dominant under the low infestation level and Datura stramonium and Xanthium spp. were the most dominant under the medium and high infestation levels, respectively. The above‐ground dry biomass of P. hysterophorus increased between the low and high infestation levels, while that of the grass or other species reduced in the high, as compared to the low, infestation level. Although the grass species density decreased significantly with successive increases in the P. hysterophorus infestation level, no such trend could be seen for the other species. Within the soil seed bank, the viable seed density for the grass species, other species, and P. hysterophorus were 25.7, 5.8, and 68.5%, respectively. Similarly, the soil seed bank under the low‐, medium‐, and high‐infestation sites was dominated by P. hysterophorus, which contributed 25.1, 65.4, and 87.4% of the viable seed bank, respectively. Although the overall similarity between the above‐ground vegetation composition and the soil seed bank was low, it was similar at the low‐infested site. Thus, the invasion by P. hysterophorus was found to critically endanger the biodiversity of the grazing lands, particularly for the different grass and forbs species in the area. These changes might adversely affect not only future agriculture, but also food security, unless appropriate practises are developed and implemented for P. hysterophorus management.
Effects of the aqueous extracts of Zygophyllum fabago on the growth of Fusarium oxyosporum f. sp. melonis and Pythium aphanidermatum
Authors: DANA ELÍAS D. , GARCÍA DE LOMAS JUAN , SÁNCHEZ JOSÉ
Published: September 2010

In this study, the effects of aqueous extracts from Zygophyllum fabago L. on two plant phytopathogenic fungal species (namely, Fusarium oxyosporum f. sp. melonis and Pythium aphanidermatum) were studied under laboratory conditions. The plant extracts (10% w/v) were prepared by using deionized water and fresh tissues. Dilutions (2, 4, 6, and 8% w/v) were obtained to test their effect on the mycelial growth of the phytopathogenic species. Additionally, the recovery of the fungi after their exposure to the Z. fabago extract was analyzed. The plant extracts inhibited the growth of F. oxyosporum and P. aphanidermatum (the maximum mean inhibition that was recorded with the 10% w/v extracts was 42.9% and 85.3%, respectively). A second series of experiments demonstrated the existence of residual effects in both species. The amount of residual inhibition by the 10% w/v extracts was 28.6% in F. oxyosporum and 53.8% in P. aphanidermatum. A dose–response was clearly observed in P. aphanidermatum, while an increase in extract concentration was not associated with a significantly greater reduction in the growth of F. oxyosporum. These findings give insights into the potential of Z. fabago as a growth inhibitor of F. oxyosporum and P. aphanidermatum, thus suggesting an interesting potential role for this common weed as a source of natural fungicides.
Competition of sorghum cultivars and densities with Japanese millet (Echinochloa esculenta)
Authors: WU HANWEN , WALKER STEVEN R. , OSTEN VIKKI A. , ROBINSON GEOFF
Published: September 2010

Field studies were conducted at two locations in southern Queensland, Australia during the 2003–2004 and 2004–2005 growing seasons to determine the differential competitiveness of sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) cultivars and crop densities against weeds and the sorghum yield loss due to weeds. Weed competition was investigated by growing sorghum in the presence or absence of a model grass weed, Japanese millet (Echinochloa esculenta). The correlation analyses showed that the early growth traits (height, shoot biomass, and daily growth rate of the shoot biomass) of sorghum adversely affected the height, biomass, and seed production of millet, as measured at maturity. “MR Goldrush” and “Bonus MR” were the most competitive cultivars, resulting in reduced weed biomass, weed density, and weed seed production. The density of sorghum also had a significant effect on the crop's ability to compete with millet. When compared to the density of 4.5 plants per m2, sorghum that was planted at 7.5 plants per m2 suppressed the density, biomass, and seed production of millet by 22%, 27% and 38%, respectively. Millet caused a significant yield loss in comparison with the weed‐free plots. The combined weed‐suppressive effects of the competitive cultivars, such as MR Goldrush, and high crop densities minimized the yield losses from the weeds. These results indicate that sorghum competition against grass weeds can be improved by choosing competitive cultivars and by using a high crop density of >7.5 plants per m2. These non‐chemical options should be included in an integrated weed management program for better weed management, particularly where the control options are limited by the evolution of herbicide resistance.
Hysteroscopic rollerball endometrial ablation as an alternative treatment for adenomyosis with menorrhagia and/or dysmenorrhea
Authors: Preutthipan Sangchai , Herabutya Yongyoth
Published: September 2010

Aim:  The aim of this study was to assess the long‐term effectiveness and safety of hysteroscopic rollerball endometrial ablation as a surgical management of adenomyosis with menorrhagia and/or dysmenorrhea. We compared the results of patients who underwent pretreatment with gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist with the results of those who did not.

Methods:  A retrospective study included 190 adenomyotic patients who suffered from menorrhagia and/or dysmenorrhea and underwent hysteroscopic rollerball endometrial ablation. Main outcome measures were rates of successful operation, complications, improvement of abnormal uterine bleeding and pelvic pain after the surgery.

Results:  The majority of the patients (142, 74.7%) underwent hysteroscopic rollerball endometrial ablation during the early proliferative phase of the menstrual cycle. The rest were operated on after GnRH agonist pretreatment for 6–8 weeks. Ablations were successfully performed on all patients in a day surgery setting. The average operation time was 36.3 ± 7.1 min. The mean glycine deficit was 583.4 ± 247.3 mL. The ablation in the no‐pretreatment group took a significantly longer time and had more glycine absorption compared to the GnRH agonist pretreatment group (P < 0.0001). Mean postoperative follow‐up duration was five years (range 1–10 years). A total of 187 patients (98.4%) who had undergone hysteroscopic endometrial ablation reported decreased bleeding: amenorrhea in 58 (30.5%), hypomenorrhea in 78 (41.1%), and eumenorrhea in 51 (26.8%) patients. Three patients (1.6%) underwent hysterectomy due to symptoms recurrence. A total of 165 (86.8%) patients with dysmenorrhea reported either reduced or no dysmenorrhea. There was no significant difference in the efficacy of hysteroscopic rollerball endometrial ablation between patients who underwent pretreatment with GnRH agonists and those who did not. No major complications related to the procedure were reported.

Conclusions:  Hysteroscopic rollerball endometrial ablation as a surgical management of menorrhagia and dysmenorrhea that develops in patients with adenomyosis is an effective and safe procedure. It can reduce the need for the unnecessary major surgery of hysterectomy.
Effects of postoperative analgesia on postpartum urinary retention in women undergoing cesarean delivery
Authors: Liang Ching‐Chung , Chang Shuenn‐Dhy , Wong Shu‐Yam , Chang Yao‐Lung , Cheng Po‐Jen
Published: September 2010

Aim: Various analgesics and administration methods are used to provide women undergoing cesarean delivery pain relief after surgery. We compared three methods of postoperative analgesia regarding the incidence of postpartum urinary retention (PUR) in primiparous women undergoing elective cesarean delivery.

Methods: We estimated post‐void residual bladder volume after the first postpartum micturition among 150 parturient women. Risk factors stratified for PUR defined by 150‐mL post‐void residual bladder volume were analyzed. Obstetric parameters and prevalence of lower urinary tract symptoms after surgery were compared among three groups of parturient women given different postoperative analgesia: epidural bolus morphine (EBM), patient‐controlled epidural analgesia (PCEA) with ropivacaine‐fentanyl, and intramuscular pethidine.

Results: The incidence of PUR was higher in the group given EBM (33.3%) than the groups receiving ropivacaine‐fentanyl by PCEA (15%) or intramuscular pethidine (16.7%) (P = 0.038). Eighteen (12%) parturient women needed bladder catheterization to resolve their urinary retention at 1 day postpartum but all achieved spontaneous micturition prior to hospital discharge. The need for catheterization was also increased in the group with EBM (21.7%) in comparison with the other two groups (6.7% and 3.3%, respectively,P = 0.011). At the 3‐month follow up, six women (4%) had obstructive voiding problems and seven women (4.7%) had irritating voiding problems. At the 1‐year follow up, only one woman in the EBM group had incomplete emptying and another in the PCEA group had urinary incontinence.

Conclusion: Epidural analgesia with morphine was significantly associated with post‐cesarean urinary retention. Nonetheless, it was not detrimental to later urinary function.
Aortic dissection accompanied by preeclampsia and preterm labor
Authors: Parlakgumus Huriye Ayse , Haydardedeoglu Bulent , Alkan Ozlem
Published: September 2010

Aortic dissection is a potentially fatal disease rarely encountered in obstetric clinics. A multiparous woman with a prior cesarean delivery was admitted with the complaint of epigastric pain at 33 weeks of gestation. The patient was diagnosed with preeclampsia and preterm labor. An emergent cesarean delivery was performed. Hypertension and epigastric pain could not be controlled after the operation. Computed tomography scan 2 days after the operation revealed aortic dissection, multiple infarct areas in the spleen and liver, and dilations of the intestine and the colon. Ascending aorta replacement followed by massive intestinal resection starting from the ligament of Trietz to the sigmoid colon was performed. Nine hours after the operation the patient had cardiopulmonary arrest. Aortic dissection should be suspected in cases of atypical epigastric pain even if the patient shows signs of preeclampsia and preterm labor.
Influence of previous abortions and new paternity on the risk of hypertension in nulliparous parturients in Ibadan: A cohort study
Authors: Olayemi Oladapo , Strobino Donna , Adedapo Kayode , Aimakhu Christopher , Odukogbe Akin‐tunde , Salako Babatunde
Published: September 2010

Aim:  This study aims to determine the influence of previous abortions and new paternity on the risk of hypertension in a cohort of nulliparous women.

Methods:  A prospective cohort study was conducted with development of hypertension in pregnancy as outcome variable. Explanatory variables were previous abortions and paternity. Univariate analysis was by t‐test, χ2 test and Fisher's exact test where applicable. Logistic regression was utilized for multivariate analysis. Stata was utilized for all the analyses. The level of statistical significance was set as P < 0.05.

Results:  Same paternity abortions reduced the risk of hypertension (OR 0.48, 95% CI 0.31–0.73). Previous abortions did not reduce the odds of hypertension in pregnancy (OR 1.25, 95% CI 0.83–1.88). Rural dwelling reduced the odds of developing hypertension in pregnancy (OR 0.54, 95% CI 0.42–0.70).

Conclusion:  The result of this study supports the immunological theory of the etiology of hypertension in pregnancy.