bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Large‐scale phenotyping of transgenic tobacco plants (Nicotiana tabacum) to identify essential leaf functions
Authors: Lein Wolfgang , Usadel Bjoern , Stitt Mark , Reindl Andreas , Ehrhardt Thomas , Sonnewald Uwe , Börnke Frederik
Published: January 2008

Two of the major challenges in functional genomics are to identify genes that play a key role in biological processes, and to elucidate the biological role of the large numbers of genes whose function is poorly characterized or still completely unknown. In this study, a combination of large‐scale expressed sequence tag sequencing, high‐throughput gene silencing and visual phenotyping was used to identify genes in which partial inhibition of expression leads to marked phenotypic changes, mostly on leaves. Three normalized tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) cDNA libraries were prepared directly in a binary vector using different tissues of tobacco as an RNA source, randomly sequenced and clustered. The Agrobacterium–tobacco leaf disc transformation system was used to generate sets of antisense or co‐suppression transgenic tobacco plants for over 20 000 randomly chosen clones, each representing an independent cluster. After transfer to the glasshouse, transgenic plants were scored visually after 10–14 days for changes in growth, leaf form and chlorosis or necrosis. Putative hits were validated by repeating the transformation. This procedure is more stringent than the analysis of knockout mutants, because it requires that even a partial decrease in expression generates a phenotype. This procedure identified 88 validated gene/phenotype relations. These included several previously characterized gene/phenotype relationships, demonstrating the validity of the approach. For about one‐third, a function could be inferred, but a loss‐of‐function phenotype had not been described previously. Strikingly, almost one‐half of the validated genes were poorly annotated, or had no known function. For 77 of these tobacco sequences, a single or small number of potential orthologues were identified in Arabidopsis. The genes for which orthologues were identified in Arabidopsis included about one‐half of the genes whose function was completely unknown. Comparison with published gene/phenotype relations for Arabidopsis knockout mutants revealed surprisingly little overlap with the present study. Our results indicate that partial gene silencing identifies novel gene/phenotype relationships, which are distinct from those uncovered by knockout screens. They also show that it is possible to perform these analyses in a crop species in which full genome sequence information is lacking, and subsequently to transfer the information to a reference species in which functional studies can be performed more effectively.
Plant peptides and peptidomics
Authors: Farrokhi Naser , Whitelegge Julian P. , Brusslan Judy A.
Published: January 2008

Extracellular plant peptides perform a large variety of functions, including signalling and defence. Intracellular peptides often have physiological functions or may merely be the products of general proteolysis. Plant peptides have been identified and, in part, functionally characterized through biochemical and genetic studies, which are lengthy and in some cases impractical. Peptidomics is a branch of proteomics that has been developed over the last 5 years, and has been used mainly to study neuropeptides in animals and the degradome of proteases. Peptidomics is a fast, efficient methodology that can detect minute and transient amounts of peptides and identify their post‐translational modifications. This review describes known plant peptides and introduces the use of peptidomics for the detection of novel plant peptides.
Fruit‐specific suppression of the ethylene receptor LeETR4 results in early‐ripening tomato fruit
Authors: Kevany Brian M. , Taylor Mark G. , Klee Harry J.
Published: January 2008

Tomato is an economically important crop and a significant dietary source of important phytochemicals, such as carotenoids and flavonoids. Although it has been known for many years that the plant hormone ethylene is essential for the ripening of climacteric fruits, its role in fruit growth and maturation is much less well understood. In this study, data are presented which indicate that fruit‐specific suppression of the ethylene receptor LeETR4 causes early ripening, whereas fruit size, yield and flavour‐related chemical composition are largely unchanged. Early fruit ripening is a highly desirable and valuable trait, and the approach demonstrated here should be applicable to any fruit species requiring ethylene to ripen. These results demonstrate that ethylene receptors probably act as biological clocks regulating the onset of tomato fruit ripening.
Price elasticity of water allocations demand in the Goulburn–Murray Irrigation District*
Authors: Wheeler Sarah , Bjornlund Henning , Shanahan Martin , Zuo Alec
Published: January 2008

Bid prices for the demand and supply of water allocations between 2001 and 2007, and average monthly prices paid for water allocations from 1997 to 2007 in the Goulburn–Murray Irrigation District are analysed to estimate price elasticities. Based on bid prices, the price elasticity of demand for water allocations appears highly elastic, with elasticities strongly influenced by the season and drought. The price elasticity of supply for water allocations is also elastic, albeit less elastic than demand. Using actual prices paid, water demand is negatively related to price and is inelastic, and appears to be most influenced by demand the previous month, drought and seasonality factors.
Exporting managed care: Asian experiments
Authors: Simonet Daniel
Published: January 2008

Abstract  Following managed care saturation in the US market, and because of limited prospects in Europe, managed care made some headway in Latin America and Southeast Asia. The following paper compares a general concept, “managed care”, across countries, and shows that it has gained acceptance in certain territories (e.g. Hong Kong, the Philippines), but not in others. Managed care is defined as processes or techniques used by any entity that delivers, administers and/or assumes risk for health services in order to control or influence the quality, accessibility, utilization, costs and prices, or outcomes of such services provided to a defined population (American Medical Association, 1999). The first part of the paper reviews specific experiences (Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Singapore), and is followed by a summary of difficulties that Managed Care encountered in Asia. Among these are rising public defiance and physician opposition.
Designing a social security pension system
Authors: Brown Robert L.
Published: January 2008

Abstract  This paper looks at potential models of social security pension systems. It refers often to the systems that exist in the United States and Canada (the latter more particularly) to outline the issues involved in attempting to design a “good” social security pension system. Of course, one of the issues is the definition of “good”. This paper will use criteria such as poverty alleviation, retirement income adequacy, benefit/contribution sustainability, income equality and wealth distribution. In the course of the discussion, the reader will be exposed to many issues that need to be addressed in the establishment of any social security pension system in the world. This may prove to be helpful in countries where new systems are established (and even for evolving systems). It is also hoped that future students of social security will find this paper helpful in that it is meant to lay out some basic principles consistent with good social security pension design.
Mass spectral comparison of the neuropeptide complement of the stomatogastric ganglion and brain in the adult and embryonic lobster, Homarus americanus
Authors: Cape Stephanie S. , Rehm Kristina J. , Ma Mingming , Marder Eve , Li Lingjun
Published: January 2008

Neuropeptides in the stomatogastric ganglion (STG) and the brain of adult and late embryonic Homarus americanus were compared using a multi‐faceted mass spectral strategy. Overall, 29 neuropeptides from 10 families were identified in the brain and/or the STG of the lobster. Many of these neuropeptides are reported for the first time in the embryonic lobster. Neuropeptide extraction followed by liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole‐time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry enabled confident identification of 24 previously characterized peptides in the adult brain and 13 peptides in the embryonic brain. Two novel peptides (QDLDHVFLRFa and GPPSLRLRFa) were de novo sequenced. In addition, a comparison of adult to embryonic brains revealed the presence of an incompletely processed form of Cancer borealis tachykinin‐related peptide 1a (CabTRP 1a, APSGFLGMRG) only in the embryonic brain. A comparison of adult to embryonic STGs revealed that QDLDHVFLRFa was present in the embryonic STG but absent in the adult STG, and CabTRP 1a exhibited the opposite trend. Relative quantification of neuropeptides in the STG revealed that three orcokinin family peptides (NFDEIDRSGFGF, NFDEIDRSGFGFV, and NFDEIDRSGFGFN), a B‐type allatostatin (STNWSSLRSAWa), and an orcomyotropin‐related peptide (FDAFTTGFGHS) exhibited higher signal intensities in the adult relative to the embryonic STG. RFamide (Arg‐Phe‐amide) family peptide (DTSTPALRLRFa), [Val1]SIFamide (VYRKPPFNGSIFa), and orcokinin‐related peptide (VYGPRDIANLY) were more intense in the embryonic STG spectra than in the adult STG spectra. Collectively, this study expands our current knowledge of the H. americanus neuropeptidome and highlights some intriguing expression differences that occur during development.
Vascular endothelial growth factor protects spinal cord motoneurons against glutamate‐induced excitotoxicity via phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase
Authors: Tolosa Laia , Mir Margalida , Asensio Víctor J. , Olmos Gabriel , Lladó Jerònia
Published: January 2008

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by the selective death of motoneurons. Recently, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has been identified as a neurotrophic factor and has been implicated in the mechanisms of pathogenesis of ALS and other neurological diseases. The potential neuroprotective effects of VEGF in a rat spinal cord organotypic culture were studied in a model of chronic glutamate excitotoxicity in which glutamate transporters are inhibited by threohydroxyaspartate (THA). Particularly, we focused on the effects of VEGF in the survival and vulnerability to excitotoxicity of spinal cord motoneurons. VEGF receptor‐2 was present on spinal cord neurons, including motoneurons. Chronic (3 weeks) treatment with THA induced a significant loss of motoneurons that was inhibited by co‐exposure to VEGF (50 ng/mL). VEGF activated the phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase/Akt (PI3‐K/Akt) signal transduction pathway in the spinal cord cultures, and the effect on motoneuron survival was fully reversed by the specific PI3‐K inhibitor, LY294002. VEGF also prevented the down‐regulation of Bcl‐2 and survivin, two proteins implicated in anti‐apoptotic and/or anti‐excitotoxic effects, after THA exposure. Together, these findings indicate that VEGF has neuroprotective effects in rat spinal cord against chronic glutamate excitotoxicity by activating the PI3‐K/Akt signal transduction pathway and also reinforce the hypothesis of the potential therapeutic effects of VEGF in the prevention of motoneuron degeneration in human ALS.
Characterization of extracellular minerals produced during dissimilatory Fe(III) and U(VI) reduction at 100 °C by Pyrobaculum islandicum
Authors: KASHEFI K. , MOSKOWITZ B. M. , LOVLEY D. R.
Published: January 2008

In order to gain insight into the significance of biotic metal reduction and mineral formation in hyperthermophilic environments, metal mineralization as a result of the dissimilatory reduction of poorly crystalline Fe(III) oxide, and U(VI) reduction at 100 °C by Pyrobaculum islandicum was investigated. When P. islandicum was grown in a medium with poorly crystalline Fe(III) oxide as an electron acceptor and hydrogen as an electron donor, the Fe(III) oxide was reduced to an extracellular, ultrafine‐grained magnetite with characteristics similar to that found in some hot environments and that was previously thought to be of abiotic origin. Furthermore, cell suspensions of P. islandicum rapidly reduced the soluble and oxidized form of uranium, U(VI), to extracellular precipitates of the highly insoluble U(IV) mineral, uraninite (UO2). The reduction of U(VI) was dependent on the presence of hydrogen as the electron donor. These findings suggest that microbes may play a key role in metal deposition in hyperthermophilic environments and provide a plausible explanation for such phenomena as magnetite accumulation and formation of uranium deposits at ca. 100 °C.
Disrupted intracellular calcium regulates BACE1 gene expression via nuclear factor of activated T cells 1 (NFAT 1) signaling
Authors: Cho Hyun Jin , Jin Seok Min , Youn Hong Deuk , Huh Kyoon , Mook‐Jung Inhee
Published: January 2008

Beta‐site APP‐cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1) expression is elevated in the brains of Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients and in aged‐animal models. Because both AD and aging are associated with disrupted calcium homeostasis, we investigated the role of nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT) – a transcription factor regulated by the calcium‐ and calmodulin‐dependent phosphatase calcineurin – in BACE1 expression. BACE1 expression was stimulated by a calcium ionophore in primary cortical cultures, and by SH‐SY5Y neuroblastoma cells, which was both blocked by pretreatment with either cyclosporin A, an inhibitor of calcineurin, or ethyleneglycotetraacetic acid, a calcium chelator. Gel shift assays revealed direct binding of NFAT1 to specific DNA sequences within the BACE1 gene promoter region. Treatment with amyloid beta (Aβ), one of the major factors in AD pathogenesis, stimulated activation and nuclear translocation of NFAT1 following up‐regulation of BACE1 expression. In addition, primary cortical cultures from Tg2576 mouse brains generated more Aβ by ionophore stimulation, which was reversed by cyclosporin A treatment. Furthermore, NFAT1 activation was observed in Tg2576 mouse brains. These results suggest that calcium ionophore‐ or Aβ‐induced increases in intracellular calcium concentration stimulate BACE1 expression, resulting in accelerated Aβ generation, and that this process is mediated through the calcineurin‐NFAT1 signaling pathway. This process may play a significant role in the pathogenesis of AD and aging.
HOLOCENE ACCUMULATION OF COLLUVIAL AND ALLUVIAL SEDIMENTS IN THE WEIßE ELSTER RIVER VALLEY IN SAXONY, GERMANY*
Authors: TINAPP CH. , MELLER H. , BAUMHAUER R.
Published: January 2008

Geoarchaeological investigations at two archaeological excavation sites lead to new results with respect to the Holocene landscape development of an archaeologically important loess landscape of Central Europe. Colluvial and alluvial sediments were sampled during archaeological excavations on the valley edge of the Weiße Elster and dated by means of 14C, TL and dendrochronology, and on the basis of archaeological finds. Thus, for the first time, the development of a valley edge of a river in the Leipzig area, which has been continuously settled for 7300 years, can be reconstructed. The first soil erosion on the valley edge is established towards the end of the Atlantic period. During the High Middle Ages, a colluvial sediment developed. Its deposition time can be limited to between ad 1000 and 1100. The flood loam near Großstorkwitz, which can be stratified by means of the soil and colluvial deposits, originated in the late Sub‐Boreal and early Sub‐Atlantic, as well as after ad 1100. During the first millennium ad, a soil developed in the older flood loam, which indicates a phase of reduced flood loam sedimentation.
Relationship Lending, Accounting Disclosure, and Credit Availability during the Asian Financial Crisis
Authors: JIANGLI WENYING , UNAL HALUK , YOM CHIWON
Published: January 2008

We examine whether lending relationships benefit firms by making credit more available during periods of financial stress. Our main finding is that during the Asian financial crisis of July 1997 through the end of 1998, relationship lending increased the likelihood that Korean and Thai firms would obtain credit but it had no effect on Indonesian and Philippine firms. We ask if accounting disclosure might explain the observed differences among the three countries for which audit information is available. We find that for Indonesian firms with weak lending relationships, banks replace relationship lending technology with a financial‐statement lending technology. Such a result does not hold for Korean and Philippine firms.
Emergence of Captive Finance Companies and Risk Segmentation in Loan Markets: Theory and Evidence
Authors: BARRON JOHN M. , CHONG BYUNG‐UK , STATEN MICHAEL E.
Published: January 2008

A seller with some degree of market power in its product market can earn rents. In this context, there is a gain to granting credit to purchase of the product and thus to the establishment of a captive finance company. This paper examines the optimal behavior of such a durable good seller and its captive finance company. The model predicts a critical difference between the captive finance company's credit standard and that of independent lenders (“banks”), namely, that the captive finance company will adopt a more lenient credit standard. Thus, we should expect the likelihood of repayment of a captive loan to be lower than that of a bank loan, other things equal. This prediction is tested using a unique data set drawn from a major credit bureau in the United States, and the evidence supports the theoretical prediction.
The prevalence of mixed episodes during the course of illness in bipolar disorder
Authors: Kessing L. V.
Published: January 2008

Objective:  To investigate the prevalence of mixed episodes during the course of illness in bipolar disorder.

Method:  A total of 1620 patients with an ICD‐10 diagnosis of bipolar affective disorder at the first psychiatric contact were identified in a period from 1994 to 2003 in Denmark and the prevalence of mixed, depressive and hypomanic/manic episodes were calculated at each episode.

Results:  The prevalence of mixed episodes increased from the first episode to the tenth episode, however, only for women (6.7% of the first episodes leading to psychiatric care compared with 18.2% of the tenth episodes). For men, the prevalence of mixed episodes was constantly low. At all episodes, the presence of a current mixed episode increased the risk substantially of getting a future mixed episode.

Conclusion:  Clinicians should pay more attention to mixed episodes, especially among women, as they may represent an increasing treatment challenge as the illness progress.
Insulin resistance and lipid levels in adolescents with familial risk for psychosis
Authors: Koponen H. , Mäki P. , Halonen H. , Miettunen J. , Laitinen J. , Tammelin T. , Moilanen I. , Taanila A. , Ruokonen A. , Korkeila J. , Veijola J.
Published: January 2008

Objective:  Type 2 diabetes and dyslipidemias co‐occur frequently with schizophrenia. It is not known how common they are in adolescents with a familial risk for psychosis.

Method:  The Northern Finland 1986 Birth Cohort consists of 9432 children born alive in the two Northernmost provinces in Finland. At the age of 15/16 they participated in clinical examination including measurements of glucose, lipids and IR, and a questionnaire including items about their diet and physical activity. The Finnish Hospital Discharge Register was used to find out non‐organic psychoses in parents during 1972–2000. This familial risk was found out in 54 boys and 68 girls. Their results were compared with other cohort members.

Results:  No differences were observed in the cardiometabolic risk factors between the study groups.

Conclusion:  Our results suggest that familial risk for psychosis is not directly associated with disturbances of glucose and lipid metabolism among adolescents.
Circulating leptin levels and bone mineral density in children with biliary atresia
Authors: Honsawek Sittisak , Chaiwatanarat Tawatchai , Chongsrisawat Voranush , Thawornsuk Nutchanart , Vejchapipat Paisarn , Poovorawan Yong
Published: January 2008

Aim: To investigate circulating leptin levels in biliary atresia (BA) patients and the association of leptin with bone mineral density (BMD) and the severity of BA.

Methods: We have examined 50 patients with BA and 15 matched healthy controls. Serum leptin, osteocalcin and C‐terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX) levels were measured by sandwich enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). BMD of the lumbar spine was measured by dual energy X‐ray absorptiometry.

Results: Serum leptin levels of BA patients were lower than those of healthy controls (2.7 ± 0.3 vs. 7.1 ± 1.7 ng/mL, p = 0.0001). Among the BA patients, serum leptin levels were significantly lower in patients with jaundice than patients without jaundice (1.7 ± 0.2 vs. 3.4 ± 0.4 ng/mL, p = 0.001). BMD of BA patients was correlated (p < 0.001) with leptin levels, age and BMI (r = 0.55, r = 0.75 and r = 0.58, respectively). The serum CTX levels were significantly higher in jaundice patients compared with jaundice‐free patients and the healthy controls (0.6 ± 0.2 vs. 0.2 ± 0.1 ng/mL, p = 0.01), whereas the serum osteocalcin levels in BA patients were not different from those in the controls.

Conclusion: Circulating leptin levels are correlated with BMD and the presence of jaundice in BA, suggesting that the leptin may play a physiological role in maintaining bone mass of BA patients with jaundice.
Neonatal sepsis presenting as a choledochal cyst
Authors: Shaoul Ron , Sukhotnik Igor , Toubi Aurora
Published: January 2008

We report a case of a neonate who presented with Klebsiella sepsis and a fusiform dilation of the common bile duct on ultrasound suspected to be a choledochal cyst type Ia. In addition, a biliary sludge was noted in the gallbladder. All findings resolved with resolution of the sepsis. We discuss the case and review the literature regarding the association of sepsis with cholestasis and biliary sludge.

Conclusions: we suggest that in any case of sepsis presenting as a choledochal cyst, it is essential to repeat the ultrasound after complete recovery before a surgery is planned.
Failure to eradicate streptococci and beta‐lactamase producing bacteria
Authors: Brook Itzhak , Gober Alan E
Published: January 2008

Background: The presence of beta‐lactamase‐producing bacteria is associated with the failure of penicillins to eradicate Group A beta‐hemolytic streptococci in patients with pharyngo‐tonsillitis. This study correlated the rate of recovery of beta‐lactamase‐producing bacteria from healthy children with the rate of amoxicillin failure to eradicate Group A streptococci from children with acute Group A streptococcal pharyngo‐tonsillitis.

Patients and Methods: A total of 228 children with Group A streptococcal pharyngo‐tonsillitis, treated with amoxicillin for 10 days, and 663 healthy children were evaluated in a single year. Pharyngo‐tonsillar cultures were obtained from all well children and from those with pharyngo‐tonsillitis before treatment and on the 12th day.

Results: Amoxicillin failed to eradicate Group A streptococci from 48 of the 228 treated children (21%). Amoxicillin failure rate varied from month to month; it was high between October and May (22–32%), with the exception of April (11%); and low between June and September (8% to 12%). Beta‐lactamase‐producing bacteria were recovered from 226 of 663 (34%) well children. The rate of recovery of beta‐lactamase‐producing bacteria varied; it was also high between October and May (40–52%), with exception of April (23%), and the lowest between June and September (10–12%). Prior to their treatment, beta‐lactamase‐producing bacteria were recovered from 26 of the 48 (54%) children who eventually failed amoxicillin therapy, and from 28 of the 180 (16%) who did not fail (p < 0.001).

Conclusions: A correlation was noted between the rate of recovery of beta‐lactamase‐producing bacteria in healthy children and the rate of amoxicillin failure to eradicate Group A streptococci. A high failure rate of penicillins in eradication of Group A streptococci in pharyngo‐tonsillitis can serve as sensitive indicator for a high prevalence rate of beta‐lactamase‐producing bacteria in the community.
Skin bilirubin nomogram for the first 96 h of life in a European normal healthy newborn population, obtained with multiwavelength transcutaneous bilirubinometry
Authors: De Luca Daniele , Romagnoli Costantino , Tiberi Eloisa , Zuppa Antonio Alberto , Zecca Enrico
Published: January 2008

Aim: Hour‐specific nomogram evaluation of serum or skin bilirubin is a suitable approach for managing neonatal hyperbilirubinemia and it is recommended by American Academy of Paediatrics. We aimed to provide data about skin bilirubin levels during the natural course of hyperbilirubinemia in European healthy neonates.

Methods: We enrolled 2198 healthy newborn infants (gestational age [GA]≥ 35 weeks), from 24 to 96 h of life and performed transcutaneous bilirubin (TcB) measurement, in order to draw the nomogram for 10th, 25th, 50th, 75th and 95th percentiles of skin bilirubin, both for term and near term babies. All measurements were performed with a multiwavelength transcutaneous bilirubinometer (Respironics BiliCheck™), within 2 h of the designed time and data were analysed with linear and local smoother regression.

Results: We described the peculiar pattern of skin bilirubin increasing rate over different time periods. Bilirubin linearly increases rapidly in the first 48 h and less rapidly from 48 to 72 h, while the increment is insignificant from 72 to 96 h.

Conclusion: We provide the first data on skin bilirubin trend in a large predominantly breastfed and healthy European newborn population during the natural course of nonpathologic hyperbilirubinemia. Nomogram and increment rate of skin bilirubin are useful to identify neonates requiring closer evaluation and to plan an adequate follow‐up.
Evaluation of several strategies to increase the residence time of Episyrphus balteatus (Diptera, Syrphidae) releases in sweet pepper greenhouses
Authors: Pineda A. , Marcos‐García M.A.
Published: January 2008

We have investigated several factors affecting the augmentation of the aphidophagous syrphid Episyrphus balteatus in Mediterranean sweet pepper greenhouses. First, the effectiveness of releases has been assessed by recording the larva and pupa number. The abundance of E. balteatus varied between greenhouses, which was not observed to be a release effect. Second, two experiments were performed to assess the effect of three biological control management strategies on the release residence time. In the first experiment, the greenhouse ventilation was shown to have a significant influence on the adult population residence time, which was higher when the side walls were closed rather than open. The introduction of additional floral resources (sweet alyssum and coriander) did not have a significant effect on the release residence time. In the second experiment, the age of the released adults was assessed, and 2‐day‐old adults stayed longer in the greenhouse than 7‐day‐old adults, but the 7‐day‐old adults had more time to lay eggs. Although syrphids are effective aphid natural enemies, the release methodology of introducing pupae appears not to be effective in Mediterranean greenhouses. In this paper, we propose changing the methodology of releasing E. balteatus.
Biodegradation in Contaminated Aquifers: Incorporating Microbial/Molecular Methods
Authors: Weiss Johanna V. , Cozzarelli Isabelle M.
Published: January 2008

In order to evaluate natural attenuation in contaminated aquifers, there has been a recent recognition that a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating microbial and molecular methods, is required. Observed decreases in contaminant mass and identified footprints of biogeochemical reactions are often used as evidence of intrinsic bioremediation, but characterizing the structure and function of the microbial populations at contaminated sites is needed. In this paper, we review the experimental approaches and microbial methods that are available as tools to evaluate the controls on microbially mediated degradation processes in contaminated aquifers. We discuss the emerging technologies used in biogeochemical studies and present a synthesis of recent studies that serve as models of integrating microbiological approaches with more traditional geochemical and hydrogeologic approaches in order to address important biogeochemical questions about contaminant fate.
MODALL: A Practical Tool for Designing and Optimizing Capture Systems
Authors: Potter Scott T. , Moreno‐Barbero Elena , Divine Craig E.
Published: January 2008

The primary goals for most ground water capture systems (i.e., pump‐and‐treat systems) are that (1) all contaminants within zones of interest will eventually be captured and (2) the extraction and reinjection wells are best located and operated at optimal flow rates, creating hydraulically efficient flow systems. A new tool, MODular ALLocation (MODALL), is presented to aid in the design and assessment of capture systems. MODALL uses the MODFLOW‐calculated cell‐by‐cell flow terms to evaluate internodal flow balances to determine the percentage of flow in each cell which has either originated from a given source(s) or flows to a specified sink(s). Output from MODALL can be easily displayed in isopleths of “capture fraction” (CF) to indicate the certainty or strength of capture in various areas. MODALL results are compared to the results from an analytical solution, a pathline analysis using MODPATH, and solute transport simulation with MT3DMS. A brief case study is also presented where MODALL is used to optimize an existing pump‐and‐treat system to more effectively and more efficiently contain a 5000‐m long plume.
Multilevel Samplers as Microcosms to Assess Microbial Response to Biostimulation
Authors: Baldwin B.R. , Peacock A.D. , Park M. , Ogles D.M. , Istok J.D. , McKinley J.P. , Resch C.T. , White D.C.
Published: January 2008

Passive multilevel samplers (MLS) containing a solid matrix for microbial colonization were used as in situ microcosms in conjunction with a push‐pull biostimulation experiment designed to promote biological U(VI) and Tc(VII) reduction. MLS were deployed at 24 elevations in the injection well and two downgradient wells to investigate the spatial variability in microbial community composition and growth prior to and following biostimulation. The microbial community was characterized by real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (Q‐PCR) quantification of bacteria, NO3−‐reducing bacteria (nirS and nirK), δ‐proteobacteria, Geobacter sp., and methanogens (mcrA). Pretest cell densities were low overall but varied substantially with significantly greater bacterial populations detected at circumneutral pH (t‐test, α= 0.05), suggesting carbon substrate and low pH limitations of microbial activity. Although pretest cell densities were low, denitrifying bacteria were dominant members of the microbial community. Biostimulation with an ethanol‐amended ground water resulted in concurrent NO3− and Tc(VII) reduction, followed by U(VI) reduction. Q‐PCR analysis of MLS revealed significant (1 to 2 orders of magnitude, Mann–Whitney U‐test, α= 0.05) increases in cell densities of bacteria, denitrifiers, δ‐proteobacteria, Geobacter sp., and methanogens in response to biostimulation. Traditionally, characterization of sediment samples has been used to investigate the microbial community response to biostimulation; however, collection of sediment samples is expensive and not conducive to deep aquifers or temporal studies. The results presented demonstrate that push‐pull tests with passive MLS provide an inexpensive approach to determine the effect of biostimulation on contaminant concentrations, geochemical conditions, and the microbial community composition and function.
International migration of doctors from developing countries: need to follow the Commonwealth Code
Authors: Muhammad Gadit Amin A
Published: January 2008

There is an ongoing debate on the migration of doctors, especially psychiatrists, from developing countries. It is argued that these countries, which are already running short of psychiatrists, will further be jeopardised and their health systems will collapse if this migration and subsequent recruitment continue. In this paper the author presents a personal view of the ethics and human rights of this matter. He emphasises the importance of migration of doctors in view of the current situation in developing countries and advises that the Commonwealth Code be followed to address the problem of the shortage of psychiatrists in developing countries and psychiatrists’ basic right to avail themselves of the opportunities in the developed world.
Effect of a change in physical structure and cover on fish and fish habitat in freshwater ecosystems – a review and meta-analysis
Authors: Smokorowski K.E. , Pratt T.C.
Published: January 2008

Aquatic resource managers are continually faced with construction or site development proposals which, if allowed to proceed, would ultimately alter the physical structure and cover of fish habitat. In the absence of clear quantitative guidelines linking the change in habitat to fish, resource managers often use the change in habitat area as a basis for decisions. To assess the weight of scientific evidence in support of management decisions, we summarized both the observational and experimental freshwater fish-habitat literature. We then extracted data from experimental studies (where possible) for inclusion in a meta-analysis, to provide a more rigorous assessment of the published results of experimental habitat manipulations. We found relatively strong and consistent correlational evidence linking fish and physical habitat features, yet inconsistent evidence when narratively reviewing the experimental literature. On the whole, decreases in structural habitat complexity are detrimental to fish diversity and can change species composition. Increases in structural complexity showed increases, decreases, or no measurable changes in species and (or) communities. The majority of our meta-analyses resulted in supporting a direct link between habitat and fish abundance or biomass, with fish biomass responding most strongly to habitat change. Habitat alterations are most likely to affect individual species or community structure, and thus evaluating the extent of the effect on a biological basis depends on management objectives.
EFFECT OF ISOMERS ON QUANTUM TRANSPORT THROUGH MOLECULAR BRIDGE SYSTEM
Authors: MAITI SANTANU K.
Published: January 2008

Quantum transport for different models of isomer molecules attached with two semi-infinite leads is studied on the basis of the Green's function technique. The electronic transport property is strongly affected by (a) the relative position of the atoms in these molecules and (b) the molecular coupling strength with the leads.
THE ORIGIN OF ROOM TEMPERATURE FERROMAGNETISM IN Co-TiO2 SYSTEM
Authors: PAN J. S. , CHAI J. W. , WANG S. J. , TAO J. G. , HUAN C. H. A.
Published: January 2008

The annealing effects on the composition, structure and magnetism for Co overlayer deposited onto rutile TiO 2 (100) surfaces at room temperature has been investigated. Room temperature ferromagnetic behaviour is exhibited for all samples, but saturation magnetic moment per Co atom decreases with increasing annealing temperature until 530°C. In-situ photoemission studies show that the reduction of the saturation magnetic moment is due to Co oxidation at high annealing temperature. However, the saturation magnetic moment increases after annealing the sample up to 700°C. The formation of a Co - Ti - O phase rather than Co metallic clusters observed by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy is suggested to be responsible for the increase of the saturation magnetic moment.
SPIN TRANSVERSE FORCE AND QUANTUM TRANSVERSE TRANSPORT
Authors: ZHOU BIN , SHEN SHUN-QING
Published: January 2008

We present a brief review on spin transverse force, which exerts on the spin as the electron is moving in an electric field. This force, analogue to the Lorentz force on electron charge, is perpendicular to the electric field and spin current carried by the electron. The force stems from the spin-orbit coupling of electrons as a relativistic quantum effect, and could be used to understand the Zitterbewegung of electron wave packet and the quantum transverse transport of electron in a heuristic way.
DETERMINISTIC AND EXACT TELEPORTATION OF A SINGLE-QUBIT ROTATION ON REMOTE QUBITS USING TWO PARTIALLY ENTANGLED STATES
Authors: CHEN LI-BING , JIN RUI-BO , LU HONG
Published: January 2008

Teleportation of quantum gates using partially entangled states is considered. Different from the known probability schemes, we propose and study a method for teleporting a prototypical single-qubit rotation on a remote receiver with unit fidelity and unit probability by using two partially entangled pairs. The method is applicable to any two partially entangled pairs satisfying the condition that their smaller Schmidt coefficients γ and η are (2γ+2η-2γη-1)≥0. In our scheme, the sender's local generalized measurement described by a positive operator-valued measurement (POVM) lies at the heart. We construct the required POVM. The fact that the controlled teleportation of single-qubit rotation could be realized exactly using two partially entangled pairs is also notable. A sender could teleport a rotation on a remote receiver, an arbitrary one of the two receivers, via the control of the other in a network.
LATOR: ITS SCIENCE PRODUCT AND ORBITAL CONSIDERATIONS
Authors: NORDTVEDT KENNETH
Published: January 2008

In a LATOR mission to measure the non-Euclidean relationship between three sides and one angle of a light triangle near the Sun, the primary science parameter, to be measured to part-in-109 precision, is shown to include not only the key parametrized post-Newtonian (PPN) γ, but also the Sun's additional mass parameter, MΓ, which appears in the spatial metric field potential. MΓ may deviate from the Sun's well-measured gravitational mass due to post-Newtonian features of gravitational theory not previously measured in relativistic gravity observations. Under plausible assumptions, MΓ is a linear combination of the Sun's gravitational and inertial masses.

If LATOR's two spacecraft lines of sight are kept close to equal and opposite relative to the Sun during the mission's key measurements of the light triangle, it is found that the navigational requirements for the spacecraft positions are greatly relaxed, eliminating the need for on-board drag-free systems. Spacecraft orbits from the Earth to achieve the equal and opposite passages by the Sun's, line of sight are illustrated.
SPACE-BASED RESEARCH IN FUNDAMENTAL PHYSICS AND QUANTUM TECHNOLOGIES
Authors: TURYSHEV SLAVA G. , ISRAELSSON ULF E. , SHAO MICHAEL , YU NAN , KUSENKO ALEXANDER , WRIGHT EDWARD L. , EVERITT C. W. FRANCIS , KASEVICH MARK , LIPA JOHN A. , MESTER JOHN C. , REASENBERG ROBERT D. , WALSWORTH RONALD L. , ASHBY NEIL , GOULD HARVEY , PAIK HO JUNG
Published: January 2008

Space offers unique experimental conditions and a wide range of opportunities to explore the foundations of modern physics with an accuracy far beyond that of ground-based experiments. Space-based experiments today can uniquely address important questions related to the fundamental laws of Nature. In particular, high-accuracy physics experiments in space can test relativistic gravity and probe the physics beyond the Standard Model; they can perform direct detection of gravitational waves and are naturally suited for investigations in precision cosmology and astroparticle physics. In addition, atomic physics has recently shown substantial progress in the development of optical clocks and atom interferometers. If placed in space, these instruments could turn into powerful high-resolution quantum sensors greatly benefiting fundamental physics.

We discuss the current status of space-based research in fundamental physics, its discovery potential, and its importance for modern science. We offer a set of recommendations to be considered by the upcoming National Academy of Sciences' Decadal Survey in Astronomy and Astrophysics. In our opinion, the Decadal Survey should include space-based research in fundamental physics as one of its focus areas. We recommend establishing an Astronomy and Astrophysics Advisory Committee's interagency "Fundamental Physics Task Force" to assess the status of both ground- and space-based efforts in the field, to identify the most important objectives, and to suggest the best ways to organize the work of several federal agencies involved. We also recommend establishing a new NASA-led interagency program in fundamental physics that will consolidate new technologies, prepare key instruments for future space missions, and build a strong scientific and engineering community. Our goal is to expand NASA's science objectives in space by including "laboratory research in fundamental physics" as an element in the agency's ongoing space research efforts.
Airway Smooth Muscle in Asthma
Authors: Hershenson Marc B. , Brown Melanie , Camoretti-Mercado Blanca , Solway Julian
Published: January 2008

Airway smooth muscle plays a multifaceted role in the pathogenesis of asthma. We review the current understanding of the contribution of airway myocytes to airway inflammation, airway wall remodeling, and airflow obstruction in this prevalent disease syndrome. Together, these roles make airway smooth muscle an attractive target for asthma therapy.
Applications of Proteomics to Lab Diagnosis
Authors: Chaerkady Raghothama , Pandey Akhilesh
Published: January 2008

Detailed and comprehensive characterization of proteins is a major goal of proteomics. This goal has become more realistic today with the latest high-resolution mass spectrometers capable of faster sequencing in a high-throughput fashion and with the emergence of new techniques such as protein and peptide microarrays. A promising area for discovery is the application of these advanced mass spectrometric and other quantitative proteomic methodologies to laboratory diagnosis. This review focuses on the role of proteomics in the development of new laboratory diagnostics and the implications for routine diagnosis and monitoring of diseases.
The Osteoclast: Friend or Foe?
Authors: Novack Deborah V. , Teitelbaum Steven L.
Published: January 2008

Bone is a dynamic organ constantly remodeled to support calcium homeostasis and structural needs. The osteoclast is the cell responsible for removing both the organic and inorganic components of bone. It is derived from hematopoietic progenitors in the macrophage lineage and differentiates in response to the tumor necrosis factor family cytokine receptor activator of NFκB ligand. αvβ3 integrin mediates cell adhesion necessary for polarization and formation of an isolated, acidified resorptive microenvironment. Defects in osteoclast function, whether genetic or iatrogenic, may increase bone mass but lead to poor bone quality and a high fracture risk. Pathological stimulation of osteoclast formation and resorption occurs in postmenopausal osteoporosis, inflammatory arthritis, and metastasis of tumors to bone. In these diseases, osteoclast activity causes bone loss that leads to pain, deformity, and fracture. Thus, osteoclasts are critical for normal bone function, but their activity must be controlled.
Pathogenesis of Thrombotic Microangiopathies
Authors: Zheng X. Long , Sadler J. Evan
Published: January 2008

Profound thrombocytopenia and microangiopathic hemolytic anemia characterize thrombotic microangiopathy, which includes two major disorders: thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) and hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). TTP has at least three types: congenital or familial, idiopathic, and nonidiopathic. The congenital and idiopathic TTP syndromes are caused primarily by deficiency of ADAMTS13, owing to mutations in the ADAMTS13 gene or autoantibodies that inhibit ADAMTS13 activity. HUS is similar to TTP, but is associated with acute renal failure. Diarrhea-associated HUS accounts for more than 90% of cases and is usually caused by infection with Shiga-toxin-producing Escherichia coli (O157:H7). Diarrhea-negative HUS is associated with complement dysregulation in up to 50% of cases, caused by mutations in complement factor H, membrane cofactor protein, factor I or factor B, or by autoantibodies against factor H. The incomplete penetrance of mutations in either ADAMTS13 or complement regulatory genes suggests that precipitating events or triggers may be required to cause thrombotic microangiopathy in many patients.
Thiazolidinediones and the renal and hormonal response to water immersion-induced volume expansion in type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Goenka Niru , Kotonya Christina , Penney Michael D. , Randeva Harpal S. , O'Hare J. Paul
Published: January 2008

Thiazolidinediones cause sodium retention and edema by a direct effect on the kidneys. The aim of this study was to use the technique of head-out water immersion to investigate the effects of rosiglitazone on sodium and volume homeostasis in subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The volume expansion response to water immersion was compared with the response on a non-immersion control day in 12 nondiabetic male subjects and 8 diet-controlled male type 2 diabetic subjects with hourly blood and urine sampling over a 4-h period. This was repeated after both groups had taken 4 mg of rosiglitazone daily for 7 days. Immersion produced a natriuresis in both groups ( P < 0.001). An impairment of this natriuresis was seen in the diabetic subjects ( P = 0.006). However, when rosiglitazone was taken, there was no significant difference in immersion-induced natriuresis compared with nondiabetic controls ( P = 0.2). There was an immersion-induced rise in atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and urinary cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), in the healthy subjects (ANP P = 0.001, cGMP P = 0.043), which was not seen in the diabetic subjects (ANP P = 0.51, cGMP P = 0.74). Rosiglitazone restored the immersion-induced increase in cGMP excretion and rise of ANP in the diabetic group (ANP P = 0.048, cGMP P = 0.009). This study confirms that type 2 diabetic subjects have an impaired natriuretic response to acute volume expansion, which appears to be enhanced rather than diminished by rosiglitazone. This may be related to its effects in increasing natriuretic peptides and restoring the impaired cGMP excretion to volume expansion.