bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On some questions related to the maximal operator on variable 𝐿^{𝑝} spaces
Authors: Lerner Andrei
Published: April 2010

Let

P

(

R

n

)

\mathcal {P}(\mathbb {R}^n)

be the class of all exponents

p
p

for which the Hardy-Littlewood maximal operator

M
M

is bounded on

L

p
(
⋅
)

(

R

n

)

L^{p(\cdot )}({\mathbb R}^n)

. A recent result by T. Kopaliani provides a characterization of

P

\mathcal {P}

in terms of the Muckenhoupt-type condition

A
A

under some restrictions on the behavior of

p
p

at infinity. We give a different proof of a slightly extended version of this result. Then we characterize a weak type

(

p
(
⋅
)
,
p
(
⋅
)

)

\big (p(\cdot ),p(\cdot )\big )

property of

M
M

in terms of

A
A

for radially decreasing

p
p

. Finally, we construct an example showing that

p
∈

P

(

R

n

)

p\in \mathcal {P}(\mathbb {R}^n)

does not imply

p
(
⋅
)
−
α
∈

P

(

R

n

)

p(\cdot )-\alpha \in \mathcal {P}(\mathbb {R}^n)

for all

α
>

p
–

1

\alpha > p_–1

. Similarly,

p
∈

P

(

R

n

)

p\in \mathcal {P}(\mathbb {R}^n)

does not imply

α
p
(
⋅
)
∈

P

(

R

n

)

\alpha p(\cdot )\in \mathcal {P}(\mathbb {R}^n)

for all

α
>
1

/

p
−

\alpha >1/p_-

.
Chromatin Environment of Histone Variant H3.3 Revealed by Quantitative Imaging and Genome-scale Chromatin and DNA Immunoprecipitation
Authors: Delbarre Erwan , Jacobsen Bente Marie , Reiner Andrew H. , Sørensen Anita L. , Küntziger Thomas , Collas Philippe
Published: April 2010

In contrast to canonical histones, histone variant H3.3 is incorporated into chromatin in a replication-independent manner. Posttranslational modifications of H3.3 have been identified; however, the epigenetic environment of incorporated H3.3 is unclear. We have investigated the genomic distribution of epitope-tagged H3.3 in relation to histone modifications, DNA methylation, and transcription in mesenchymal stem cells. Quantitative imaging at the nucleus level shows that H3.3, relative to replicative H3.2 or canonical H2B, is enriched in chromatin domains marked by histone modifications of active or potentially active genes. Chromatin immunoprecipitation of epitope-tagged H3.3 and array hybridization identified 1649 H3.3-enriched promoters, a fraction of which is coenriched in H3K4me3 alone or together with H3K27me3, whereas H3K9me3 is excluded, corroborating nucleus-level imaging data. H3.3-enriched promoters are predominantly CpG-rich and preferentially DNA methylated, relative to the proportion of methylated RefSeq promoters in the genome. Most but not all H3.3-enriched promoters are transcriptionally active, and coenrichment of H3.3 with repressive H3K27me3 correlates with an enhanced proportion of expressed genes carrying this mark. H3.3-target genes are enriched in mesodermal differentiation and signaling functions. Our data suggest that in mesenchymal stem cells, H3.3 targets lineage-priming genes with a potential for activation facilitated by H3K4me3 in facultative association with H3K27me3.
Biological Activities of Chinese Propolis and Brazilian Propolis on Streptozotocin‐Induced Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus in Rats
Authors: Zhu Wei , Chen Minli , Shou Qiyang , Li Yinghua , Hu Fuliang
Published: April 2010

Propolis is a bee‐collected natural product and has been proven to have various bioactivities. This study tested the effects of Chinese propolis and Brazilian propolis on streptozotocin‐induced type 1 diabetes mellitus in Sprague‐Dawley rats. The results showed that Chinese propolis and Brazilian propolis significantly inhibited body weight loss and blood glucose increase in diabetic rats. In addition, Chinese propolis‐treated rats showed an 8.4% reduction of glycated hemoglobin levels compared with untreated diabetic rats. Measurement of blood lipid metabolism showed dyslipidemia in diabetic rats and Chinese propolis helped to reduce total cholesterol level by 16.6%. Moreover, oxidative stress in blood, liver and kidney was improved to various degrees by both Chinese propolis and Brazilian propolis. An apparent reduction in levels of alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, blood urea nitrogen and urine microalbuminuria‐excretion rate demonstrated the beneficial effects of propolis in hepatorenal function. All these results suggested that Chinese propolis and Brazilian propolis can alleviate symptoms of diabetes mellitus in rats and these effects may partially be due to their antioxidant ability.
Negative Regulation of the Hrp Type III Secretion System in Pseudomonas syringae pv. phaseolicola
Authors: Ortiz-Martín Inmaculada , Thwaites Richard , Mansfield John W. , Beuzón Carmen R.
Published: April 2010

Many plant-pathogenic bacteria require type III secretion systems (T3SS) to cause disease in compatible hosts and to induce the hypersensitive response in resistant plants. T3SS gene expression is induced within the plant and responds to host and environmental factors. In Pseudomonas syringae, expression is downregulated by the Lon protease in rich medium and by HrpV under inducing conditions. HrpV acts as an anti-activator by binding HrpS. HrpG, which can also bind HrpV, has been reported to act as an anti-anti-activator. Previous studies have used mostly in vitro inducing conditions, different pathovars, and methodology. We have used single and double lon and hrpV mutants of P. syringae pv. phaseolicola 1448a, as well as strains ectopically expressing the regulators, to examine their role in coordinating expression of the T3SS. We applied real-time polymerase chain reaction to analyze gene expression both in vitro and in planta, and assessed bacterial fitness using competitive indices. Our results indicate that i) Lon downregulates expression of the hrp/hrc genes in all conditions, probably by constitutively degrading naturally unstable HrpR; ii) HrpV and HrpT downregulate expression of the hrp/hrc genes in all conditions; and iii) HrpG has an additional, HrpV-independent role, regulating expression of the hrpC operon.
Multiple Resistance of Botrytis cinerea from Vegetable Crops to Carbendazim, Diethofencarb, Procymidone, and Pyrimethanil in China
Authors: Sun Hai-Yan , Wang Han-Cheng , Chen Yu , Li Hong-Xia , Chen Chang-Jun , Zhou Ming-Guo
Published: April 2010

One hundred and eight isolates of Botrytis cinerea from greenhouse cucumber and tomato in two locations in Jiangsu Province (Nanjing and Huaiyin) and one location in Shandong Province were tested for their sensitivities to the four fungicides commonly used in China. Isolates with resistance to all four fungicides—carbendazim, diethofencarb, procymidone, and pyrimethanil (CarRDieRPrcRPyrR)—were found in all three regions in this study. High frequencies (52 and 53%) of resistance to all four fungicides were observed among the 62 isolates collected in Nanjing and the 36 isolates collected in Huaiyin in Jiangsu Province. The 10 isolates from Shandong Province were all resistant to the four fungicides. Pathogenicity and sporulation in vivo, and mycelial growth, sporulation, spore germination, and osmotic sensitivity to NaCl in vitro, were similar for the group of quadruple-resistant and wild-type isolates (P > 0.05). In the present study, the complete two-component histidine kinase gene (Bos1) was sequenced for 10 procymidone-resistant and 3 procymidone-sensitive B. cinerea isolates. Isolates representing four different procymidone-resistant phenotypes (CarRDieSPrcRPyrS, CarRDieRPrcRPyrS, CarRDieRPrcRPyrR, and CarRDieRPrcRPyrR) all had nucleic acid point mutations resulting in amino acid changes at position 369 (change from glutamine to proline) as well as at amino acid position 373 (asparagine to serine) in the Bos1 gene.
Occurrence of Race 3 of Phytophthora nicotianae in North Carolina, the Causal Agent of Black Shank of Tobacco
Authors: Gallup C. A. , Shew H. D.
Published: April 2010

Black shank, caused by the oomycete Phytophthora nicotianae, causes significant annual yield losses in tobacco. Race 3 of P. nicotianae is reported here for the first time from North Carolina. It was identified from a North Carolina tobacco field with a history of tobacco varieties with Phl gene resistance and numerous field sites with no known deployment of varieties with the Phl gene. Race 3 was originally described from cigar-wrapper tobacco in Connecticut in the 1970s, but has not been reported in any other location since. Race 3 was defined as overcoming the Phl gene from Nicotiana longiflora but not the Php gene from N. plumbaginifolia. Stem and root inoculations were conducted on a set of host differentials to determine the virulence of North Carolina isolates. Stem inoculation was unable to distinguish between races 0 and 3 of P. nicotianae and is not a reliable method of identifying these virulence types. Race 1 gave a unique phenotype using stem inoculation. Root inoculation was the only reliable means of distinguishing between races 0 and 3. This is the first report of race 3 in North Carolina and the first report of damage to seedlings from root inoculations and to plants containing the Phl gene in naturally infested soil.
First Report of Grapevine Syrah virus-1 in Chilean Grapevines
Authors: Engel E. A. , Rivera P. A. , Valenzuela P. D. T.
Published: April 2010

At least 58 viruses have been reported to infect grapevines, causing economic damage globally. Our lab has reported previously the presence of more than 10 viral species in Chilean grapevines (2,3). Grapevine Syrah virus-1 (GSyV-1) is a novel marafivirus recently described in California vineyards (1). Grapevine virus Q (GVQ) was described shortly after GSyV-1 and both genomes share more than 99% nucleotide identity (4). Since GSyV-1 and GVQ correspond to the same viral species, the name GSyV-1 will be used in the current note to avoid confusion. Forty dormant cane samples from 12 different cultivars were collected from different regions of Chile and screened by reverse transcription-PCR. One of the 40 samples (cv. Syrah) collected from the VI region of Chile was found to be infected with GSyV-1 using two different pairs of GSyV-1-specific primers. The first pair of primers GSyV-1Det-F: 5′-CAAGCCATCCGTGCATCTGG -3′ and GSyV-1Det-R: 5′-GCCGATTTGGAACCCGATGG -3′ (1), was used to amplify a 297-bp fragment corresponding to a partial region of the putative methyltransferase gene. The sequence (GenBank Accession No. GU566025) shared 87% nucleotide and 100% amino acid identities with the corresponding fragment of a Californian GSyV-1 isolate (GenBank Accession No. FJ436028). Since there are no commercial antibodies available for GSyV-1 detection, a second pair of primers, GVQCP-F: 5′-TCCCAGCTTCAGGGTGAATT -3′ and GVQCP-R: 5′-GCATTGCTGCGCATTGGAGG -3′ (4), that amplified a 720-bp fragment of the putative coat protein gene was also used. The sequence of 720 bp from the Chilean sample (GenBank Accession No. GU566024) shared 92% nucleotide and 98% amino acid identities with the corresponding fragment of a Californian GSyV-1 isolate (GenBank Accession No. FJ436028). The GSyV-1-positive sample was also infected with Grapevine fleck virus and Grapevine rupestris stem pitting-associated virus that have been reported previously in Chile. To our knowledge, this is the first report of GSyV-1 in Chile. Further studies will help to establish the incidence and effects of this virus in Chilean grapevines.

References: (1) M. Al Rwahnih et al. Virology 387:395, 2009. (2) E. Engel et al. J. Virol. Methods. 163:445, 2010. (3) P. F. Escobar et al. Plant Dis. 92:1474, 2008. (4) S. Sabanadzovic et al. Virology 394:1, 2009.
First Report of Pseudoperonospora cubensis Causing Downy Mildew of Trichosanthes cucumerina in Malaysia
Authors: Salati M. , Wong M. Y. , Sariah M. , Nik Masdek H.
Published: April 2010

In December 2008, infected leaves of Trichosanthes cucumerina were observed on commercial cucurbit farms located in Pontian, Johor (south of West Malaysia). Bright yellow and small necrotic lesions were observed on the adaxial surface of the leaves, whereas sporangiophores were observed on pale yellowish brown-to-brown lesions on the abaxial surface. The length and width of the sporangia ranged from 19 to 36 μm (28.6) and 11 to 23 μm (17.6), respectively. The length of the sporangiophores ranged from 310 to 450 μm, with an average length of 380 μm. The pathogen was identified as Pseudoperonospora cubensis on the basis of the morphological criteria described by Palti and Cohen (2). To confirm the morphological findings, DNA was extracted from symptomatic tissue and the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region was PCR amplified using primers ITS5-P2 and ITS4 (3). The appropriate-sized amplicon was gel excised and column purified and then submitted for direct sequencing. The resulting 802 bp amplified ITS region was 100% identical to published P. cubensis sequences (GenBank Accession Nos. EU876603, EU876584, and AY198306). This sequence was deposited with NCBI GenBank under the Accession No. GU233293. In this study, pathogenicity tests were conducted using detached leaf disc assays (1) and a P. cubensis isolate obtained from T. cucumerina. For this purpose, leaf discs were excised from 6- to 8-week-old leaves of T. cucumerina using a 20-mm cork borer. Five leaf discs were placed with their abaxial surface facing upward on moist filter paper in petri dishes. Each of four leaf discs was inoculated with four 10-μl droplets of a 1 × 105 per ml sporangial suspension, whereas the fifth disc was inoculated with water droplets and served as a control. Three replications were completed. The leaf discs were placed in darkness at 14 ± 2°C for 24 h and subsequently incubated with a 12-h photoperiod. After 10 days, sporulation was observed on the sporangia-inoculated leaf discs with similar morphological features to the initial field samples. To our knowledge, this is the first report of P. cubensis causing downy mildew of T. cucumerina in Malaysia.

References: (1) A. Lebeda and M. P. Widrlechner. J. Plant Dis. Prot. 110:337, 2003. (2) J. Palti and Y. Cohen. Phytoparasitica 8:109, 1980. (3) H. Voglmayr and O. Constantinescu. Mycol. Res. 112:487, 2008.
Early Events Prior to Visual Symptoms in the Apoplectic Form of Grapevine Esca Disease
Authors: Letousey P. , Baillieul F. , Perrot G. , Rabenoelina F. , Boulay M. , Vaillant-Gaveau N. , Clément C. , Fontaine F.
Published: April 2010

Plant infection by pathogens generates various forms of symptoms. Most of them have been described as soon as they become visible, whereas preceding, discrete signs during incubation are poorly or not understood. In Vitis vinifera, esca-related pathogenic fungi inhabit living trunk wood and induce the so-called apoplexy, a sudden wilting of leaves within a few days. To further understand the apoplexy expression, the period preceding symptom appearance was investigated by following physiological and molecular markers associated with photosynthetic mechanisms and stress responses. Within the week preceding symptoms, drastic physiological alterations of photosynthesis were registered in pre-apoplectic vines, as revealed by a decrease in gas exchange, changes in chlorophyll fluorescence, and repression of photosynthesis-related genes. In the meantime, expression of defense-related genes was induced and amplified during symptom expression. Water-stress-related genes were specifically investigated because water transport may be impeded by clogging xylem vessels due to esca-causing fungi. Neither of the tested water-stress-related genes was affected in pre-apoplectic grapevine leaves whereas these genes were downregulated in drying leaves. Our results suggest that, during incubation of esca apoplexy, grapevine perceives some signals (likely fungi-originated toxins) and reacts by reducing photosynthesis and triggering defense mechanisms.
PWT1, an Avirulence Gene of Magnaporthe oryzae Tightly Linked to the rDNA Locus, Is Recognized by Two Staple Crops, Common Wheat and Barley
Authors: Chuma Izumi , Zhan Su-Wen , Asano Shunsuke , Nga Nguyen Thi Thanh , Vy Trinh Thi Phuong , Shirai Michiko , Ibaragi Kana , Tosa Yukio
Published: April 2010

The pathogenicity to wheat (Pwt1) locus conditions host species specificity of Magnaporthe oryzae on wheat. GFSI1-7-2 (Setaria isolate) carries the avirulence allele (PWT1) at this locus while Br48 (Triticum isolate) carries the virulence allele (pwt1). An F1 culture derived from a cross between GFSI1-7-2 and Br48 was backcrossed with Br48 to produce a tester population in which PWT1 alone segregated. When hexaploid wheat lines were inoculated with the BC1F1 testers, they were all resistant to all PWT1 carriers and susceptible to all pwt1 carriers, suggesting that they recognize PWT1. When barley cultivars were inoculated with the testers, they showed the same pattern of reactions as the hexaploid lines, suggesting that the barley cultivars also recognize PWT1. These results suggest that PWT1 is a fundamental gene that universally conditions the avirulence of Setaria isolates on two staple crops, hexaploid wheat and barley. Interestingly, tetraploid wheat lines did not recognize PWT1. Molecular mapping using the F1 and BC1F1 populations revealed that the Pwt1 locus is located on chromosome 2 and tightly linked to the ribosomal DNA locus and a telomere.
Biochemical Evaluation of Resistance Responses of Potato to Different Isolates of Alternaria solani
Authors: Shahbazi Hadis , Aminian Heshmatollah , Sahebani Navazollah , Halterman Dennis A.
Published: April 2010

The resistance phenotypes of nine potato cultivars to five isolates of Alternaria solani, causal agent of early blight, were studied after inoculation and growth under greenhouse conditions. We identified potato cultivars with both susceptible and resistant phenotypes as well as A. solani isolates with varying degrees of aggressiveness. Two potato cultivars and two pathogen isolates were selected for biochemical analysis of phenol production and peroxidase activity after inoculation. Phenol compounds were evaluated 2, 4, 6, and 8 days after inoculation, while peroxidase activities were monitored daily for 10 days. Native polyacrylamide electrophoresis was used to identify one protein with peroxidase activity in extracts taken 6 days after inoculation. Significantly higher peroxidase activity as well as total phenol content in potato was correlated with resistance in the Iranian potato cultivar Diamond. Variability of responses within the same cultivar to different isolates of A. solani suggests genotypic diversity between isolates that results in phenotypic diversity for pathogen aggressiveness.
Effect of Thoracic Epidural Anesthesia with Different Concentrations of Ropivacaine on Arterial Oxygenation during One-lung Ventilation
Authors: Xu Yajun , Tan Zhiming , Wang Shilai , Shao Haijun , Zhu Xuqin
Published: April 2010

Background

Thoracic epidural anesthesia can contribute to facilitate the fast-track approach in lung surgery. However, data regarding the effects of thoracic epidural anesthesia on oxygenation during one-lung ventilation (OLV) are scarce and contradictory. Therefore, the authors conducted a prospective, randomized, double-blinded trial in patients undergoing lung surgery under spectral entropy-guided intravenous anesthesia to evaluate the effects of thoracic epidural anesthesia with different concentrations of ropivacaine on oxygenation, shunt fraction (Qs/Qt) during OLV, and maintenance doses of propofol.

Methods

One hundred twenty patients scheduled for lung surgery were randomly divided into four groups to epidurally receive saline (Group S), 0.25% (Group R0.25), 0.50% (Group R0.50), and 0.75% (Group R0.75) ropivacaine. Ropivacaine was administered intraoperatively (6-8 ml of first bolus + 5 ml/h infusion). Arterial oxygen tension (Pao2) and Qs/Qt were measured before, during, and after OLV.

Results

Pao2 was significantly lower in Group R0.75 compared with that in Group S and Group R0.25 10 min (170 +/- 61 vs. 229 +/- 68 mmHg, P = 0.01; 170 +/- 61 vs. 223 +/- 70 mmHg, P = 0.03) and 20 min after OLV (146 +/- 52 vs. 199 +/- 68 mmHg, P = 0.009; 146 +/- 52 vs. 192 +/- 67 mmHg, P = 0.03). During OLV, Qs/Qt was significantly higher in Group R0.75 compared with that in Group S and Group R0.25 (P < 0.05). Maintenance doses of propofol were significantly lower in Group R0.75. Vasopressor requirements were higher in Group R0.75.

Conclusion

A decrease in oxygenation during OLV occurred only at the highest dose of epidural local anesthetic and not at lower doses. Higher doses of epidural medication required less propofol and more vasopressors.
Postoperative Mortality in The Netherlands
Authors: Noordzij Peter G. , Poldermans Don , Schouten Olaf , Bax Jeroen J. , Schreiner Frodo A. G. , Boersma Eric
Published: April 2010

Background

Few data are available that systematically describe rates and trends of postoperative mortality for fairly large, unselected patient populations.

Methods

This population-based study uses a registry of 3.7 million surgical procedures in 102 hospitals in The Netherlands during 1991-2005. Patients older than 20 yr who underwent an elective, nonday case, open surgical procedure were enrolled. Patient data included main (discharge) diagnosis, secondary diagnoses, dates of admission and discharge, death during admission, operations, age, sex, and a limited number of comorbidities classified according to the International Classification of Diseases 9th revision Clinical Modification. The main outcome measure was postoperative all-cause mortality. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were applied to evaluate the relationship between type of surgery and the main outcome.

Results

Postoperative all-cause death was observed in 67,879 patients (1.85%). In a model based on a classification into 11 main surgical categories, breast surgery was associated with lowest mortality (adjusted incidence, 0.07%), and vascular surgery was associated with highest mortality (adjusted incidence, 5.97%). In a model based on 36 surgical subcategories, the adjusted mortality ranged from 0.07% for hernia nuclei pulposus surgery to 18.5% for liver transplant. The c-index of the 36-category model was 0.88, which was significantly (P < 0.001) higher than the c-index that was associated with the simple surgical classification (low vs. high risk) in the commonly used Revised Cardiac Risk Index (c-index, 0.83).

Conclusions

This population-based study provided a detailed and contemporary overview of postoperative mortality for the entire surgical spectrum, which may act as reference standard for surgical outcome in Western populations.
Ecosystem functioning and maximum entropy production: a quantitative test of hypotheses
Authors: Meysman Filip J. R. , Bruers Stijn
Published: April 2010

The idea that entropy production puts a constraint on ecosystem functioning is quite popular in ecological thermodynamics. Yet, until now, such claims have received little quantitative verification. Here, we examine three ‘entropy production’ hypotheses that have been forwarded in the past. The first states that increased entropy production serves as a fingerprint of living systems. The other two hypotheses invoke stronger constraints. The state selection hypothesis states that when a system can attain multiple steady states, the stable state will show the highest entropy production rate. The gradient response principle requires that when the thermodynamic gradient increases, the system's new stable state should always be accompanied by a higher entropy production rate. We test these three hypotheses by applying them to a set of conventional food web models. Each time, we calculate the entropy production rate associated with the stable state of the ecosystem. This analysis shows that the first hypothesis holds for all the food webs tested: the living state shows always an increased entropy production over the abiotic state. In contrast, the state selection and gradient response hypotheses break down when the food web incorporates more than one trophic level, indicating that they are not generally valid.
Characterization of hepatitis C virus pseudoparticles by cryo-transmission electron microscopy using functionalized magnetic nanobeads
Authors: Bonnafous Pierre , Perrault Marie , Le Bihan Olivier , Bartosch Birke , Lavillette Dimitri , Penin François , Lambert Olivier , Pécheur Eve-Isabelle
Published: April 2010

Cell entry and membrane fusion of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) depend on its envelope glycoproteins E1 and E2. HCV pseudotyped particles (HCVpps) are relevant and popular models to study the early steps of the HCV life cycle. However, no structural characterization of HCVpp has been available so far. Using cryo-transmission electron microscopy (cryo-TEM), providing structural information at nanometric resolution, the molecular details of HCVpps and their fusion with liposomes were studied. Cryo-TEM revealed HCVpps as regular 100 nm spherical structures containing the dense retroviral nucleocapsid surrounded by a lipid bilayer. E1–E2 glycoproteins were not readily visible on the membrane surface. Pseudoparticles bearing the E1–E2 glycoproteins of Semliki forest virus looked similar, whereas avian influenza A virus (fowl plague virus) haemagglutinin/neuraminidase-pseudotyped particles exhibited surface spikes. To further characterize HCVpp structurally, a novel method was designed based on magnetic beads covered with anti-HCV antibodies to enrich the samples with particles containing E1–E2. This strategy efficiently sorted HCVpps, which were then directly observed by cryo-TEM in the presence or absence of liposomes at low or neutral pH. After acidification, HCVpps looked the same as at neutral pH and closely contacted the liposomes. These are the first visualizations of early HCV membrane fusion events at the nanometer scale. Furthermore, fluorimetry analysis revealed a relative resistance of HCVpps regarding their fusion capacity when exposed to low pH. This study therefore brings several new molecular details to HCVpp characterization and this efficient strategy of virion immunosorting with magnetic nanobeads is direct, efficient and adaptable to extensive characterization of any virus at a nanometric resolution.
Dismantling the public sector bastion: evaluating capital works
Authors: Love Peter E.D. , Davis Peter R. , Baccarini David
Published: April 2010

Purpose

The determination of the most appropriate procurement system for a capital works project is a challenging task for public sector clients considering the array of assessment criteria that are considered and the procurement methods that are available. This is particularly pertinent to the Western Australian public sector where there has been a propensity to use traditional lump sum as the default procurement solution despite knowing that the selection of an inappropriate procurement method may lead to cost and time overruns, claims, and disputes on projects. This paper aims to present a six‐step procurement method evaluation approach that requires public sector agencies to consider in detail an array of options so as to obtain value for money.

Design/methodology/approach

A procurement evaluation approach is developed and is examined using a focus group of 12 participants comprising a public sector client, project team and key stakeholders. The focus group was used to examine the developed approach in the context of a real‐life capital works project.

Findings

The procurement method evaluation approach was deemed to be pragmatic and enabled decision makers to re‐evaluate outcomes from previous steps in the process. All focus group participants stated the six step process enabled a recommendation that was grounded in reflection and detailed evaluation.

Practical implications

The developed procurement approach has enabled the public sector client to evaluate the way in which it views procurement method selection and examines how “value for money” is obtained.

Originality/value

The six‐step procurement approach makes use of quantitative and qualitative techniques and is reliant on discourse and reflection in making a procurement method recommendation. Consequently, the approach enables public sector clients to account for the complexities often associated with procurement selection.
E‐governance for improved public sector service delivery in India, Ethiopia and Fiji
Authors: Singh Gurmeet , Pathak R.D. , Naz Rafia , Belwal Rakesh
Published: April 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the extent of corruption in India, Fiji and Ethiopia and survey citizen perception of how e‐governance could fight corruption. The main objective is to investigate and explore the potential of e‐governance applications in three countries representing three different regions of Asia, Africa, and Oceania.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was conducted over 918 citizens in India, Ethiopia and Fiji using convenience random sampling. A structured questionnaire was used. The main emphasis of the survey was on citizen perception about corruption and poor service. It further asked respondents on how e‐governance can cut corruption.

Findings

Benefits of e‐governance in developing countries are the same as those in developed countries but there are many potential benefits that remain unreaped by developing countries as a consequence of their unlimited use of e‐governance. Based on these assertions, the researchers tried to evaluate and assess the potential of e‐governance initiatives in India, Ethiopia and Fiji. By exploring the role of e‐governance for reducing corruption that has afflicted the entire public sector in these countries, the main finding is that e‐governance is positively related to government, “citizen relationship and corruption reduction”.

Research limitations/implications

This study is highly empirical and does not provide case studies to further extend on the findings.

Practical implications

The implications of the research are that information communication technology (ICT) needs to be effectively integrated in the development agenda of government plans in Ethiopia and Fiji. Government agencies in Ethiopia and Fiji do not seem to be much motivated to build sound government‐citizen partnerships. Citizens can see little of the internal workings of government. However, for India, where there are many e‐governance projects underway, and which is normally considered to be awakening to the challenges of e‐governance and which has to date many success stories relating to e‐governance, it is surprising to see that citizens find various existent formats of corruption and non‐transparent service delivery activities. It is quite evident that bureaucracy is more or less opaque and very little attention has been paid to improving transparency, including through the use of e‐governance processes. Time, cost and red‐tape procedures are major constraints in public service delivery.

Originality/value

The paper explores a problem that is of practical importance using principal‐agent theory, which is very applicable to the public sector context.
The reluctant rhetorician: senior managers as rhetoricians in a strategic change context
Authors: Nilsson Tomas
Published: April 2010

Purpose

This paper explores strategic change communication, framed by the idea that managers can be viewed as rhetoricians. The purpose of this paper is to present and discuss senior managers' subjective experiences of rhetorical aspects of change management.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on a case study from ABB Sweden (a power and automation technology company). In‐depth interviews with senior managers, with vast experience of change management, constitute the empirical source.

Findings

The most important finding is the managers' overall reluctance towards rhetoric. According to the managers in this study, a rhetorician is an over‐enthusiastic person who “waves his arms when speaking”. To master the art of rhetoric is not believed to be of particular importance when managing strategic change.

Research limitations/implications

Senior managers' potentially negative attitude concerning rhetoric should be taken into account when researchers situate change management within a rhetorical frame.

Practical implications

Given the large interest in “efficient” communication, generally managers should be encouraged to overcome their reluctance towards rhetoric to improve their ability to “manage meaning” constructively.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to change management communication insofar as it gives voice to the individual manager. This voice indicates; in a time when rhetoric, storytelling, and charismatic leadership are making ground; that the understanding of rhetoric is much more limited than the general impression might suggest.
Can perceived risks affect the relationship of switching costs and customer loyalty in e‐commerce?
Authors: Yen Yung‐Shen
Published: April 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to verify the relationship between switching costs and customer loyalty in e‐commerce.

Design/methodology/approach

The study conducted an empirical research. A total of 425 online shopping customers were invited from northeastern USA as samples.

Findings

The findings show that switching costs positively influence customer loyalty. In addition, perceived risks will affect the relationship of switching costs and customer loyalty. For customers with low perceived risks, switching costs are also positively associated with customer loyalty. However, for customers with high perceived risks, the relationship of switching costs and customer loyalty is weak or negative.

Research limitations/implications

One limitation is that mostly students were selected in the sample. The insights of this study can further validate the previous studies about the relationship of switching costs and customer loyalty, and suggest that perceived risks can be a moderating factor affecting this relationship.

Practical implications

The study suggests that the practitioners should further understand the relationship among switching costs, perceived risks and customer loyalty for their customers.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the knowledge of perceived risks and how switching costs affect customer loyalty, particularly in e‐commerce.
Family and business values of regional family firms: a qualitative research
Authors: Erdem Ferda , Gül Başer Gözde
Published: April 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to understand values of family firms, which have progressed to the second or third generation and to reveal similarities in basic values of the firms, which have continued to be successful.

Design/methodology/approach

The research was realized with family members taking place at top management level in ten family firms applying a half‐structured interview method. Interview notes have been supported with observations from visits to firms and some firms, documents to be reviewed.

Findings

The research finds that family values are rather traditional hand, which the value of business are innovating. The researchers comment on this phenomenon not like paradox but a synergistic construct. In the other side, the founders are dominant factors in the formation of values of the family firms and the second generation voluntarily continues this effect.

Practical implications

This research reached important findings showing that some sets of values are determinant in continuity of family firms and showing the critical role of founders in this process. So, while the researchers form questions of the research to be developed on the interaction of family and business dimensions or form the action plan of executors who will provide professional support to family firms, that they should focus on values must be seen important. In the other side, to reveal these values taking shape in life period of family firms is only possible with deep researches.

Originality/value

Family firm literature is a late developing literature. However, many more questions concerning these kinds of firms await strong answers. Especially, to understand values of family firms is quite important in understanding strategic visions and continuity problem. In addition, there is need for numerous comprehensive studies on cultural values of family firms to clarify problematic of the family firms profiting the examples which come from the different country. This study can be demonstrated that traditional family values and innovative business values create a synergy rather than a paradox and an advantage in business continuity. Probably, this situation is associated with the cultural context.
Feeding efficiency of planktivorous perch Perca fluviatilis and roach Rutilus rutilus in varying turbidity: an individual‐based approach
Authors: Nurminen L. , Pekcan‐Hekim Z. , Horppila J.
Published: April 2010

The feeding rate of perch Perca fluviatilis showed high individual variation at low and moderate turbidities, when one individual had consumed more Daphnia pulex than any other fish, whereas no such variation in feeding efficiency was observed with roach Rutilus rutilus. There was a significant decrease in total consumption of D. pulex by P. fluviatilis with increasing turbidity, but no correlation was observed in the case of R. rutilus. The results suggest that the difference in the ontogeny of P. fluviatilis and R. rutilus may be detectable as behaviour‐related species‐specific trait differences in the early planktivorous feeding stage of the two common species.
Predictive advantage of a cell type classification for pulmonary adenocarcinoma coupled with data for p53, K‐ras and EGFR alterations
Authors: Okada Akira , Shimmyo Takuo , Hashimoto Takehisa , Kobayashi Yasuhito , Miyagi Yohei , Ishikawa Yuichi , Nakagawa Ken , Hayashi Junichi , Tsuchiya Eiju
Published: April 2010

We analyzed relationships between histological subtypes of pulmonary adenocarcinomas and three gene alterations (p53, K‐ras, and epidermal growth factor receptor gene), or thyroid transcription factor‐1 (TTF‐1) expression, and also studied prognoses by the subtypes, with or without combined multiple gene mutation status. Our purpose was to clearly determine pathogenesis, along with the best predictive value for biology and therapy‐related traits. A total of 223 consecutively resected pulmonary adenocarcinomas were sub‐classified using either the World Health Organization (WHO) or our five‐cell type (FCT) classification system (hobnail, columnar/cuboidal, mixed, polygonal/oval, and goblet cell types). DNAs extracted from frozen samples of the adenocarcinomas were examined for gene alterations, and TTF‐1 expressions were determined using immunohistochemistry. Next, relationships among the various data and clinicopathological factors were analyzed. The most striking result was: while almost 70% of adenocarcinomas were sub‐classified as a mixed subtype by WHO, the FCT classified many of them as other cell subtypes. The FCT closely reflected differences in etiological factors, cellular lineages, and frequencies of gene mutations; and whether the data from combined gene mutations were used or not, differences among the cell types in postoperative survivals appeared. In contrast, subtypes of WHO did not show any association with the gene alteration or prognosis, and the FCT more suitably indicated sensitivity to gefitinib therapy than did WHO. The FCT combined with multiple gene mutation status appears to be useful in indicating pathogenesis and predicting the biological nature of pulmonary adenocarcinomas, and it could facilitate development of new therapies for each subtype. (Cancer Sci 2010)
Inhibition of DC‐SIGN‐mediated transmission of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 by Toll‐like receptor 3 signalling in breast milk macrophages
Authors: Yagi Yukie , Watanabe Eri , Watari Eiji , Shinya Eiji , Satomi Misao , Takeshita Toshiyuki , Takahashi Hidemi
Published: April 2010

The majority of cells in early/colostrum milk are breast milk macrophages (BrMMø) expressing dendritic cell (DC)‐specific intercellular adhesion molecule 3 (ICAM3) grabbing nonintegrin (DC‐SIGN), and the expression level of DC‐SIGN on BrMMø will determine cell‐to‐cell human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV‐1) transmissibility. Thus, one of the strategies to prevent vertical transmission of HIV‐1 through breast‐feeding is to find a way to suppress DC‐SIGN expression on BrMMø. As for the expression of Toll‐like receptors (TLRs) in BrMMø, TLR3 was always seen in BrMMø but not in peripheral blood monocytes (PBMo). Also, the expression of TLR3 was slightly enhanced in BrMMø when the cells were treated with interleukin (IL)‐4. Moreover, when TLR3 was stimulated with its specific ligand, the double‐stranded RNA (dsRNA) poly(I:C), DC‐SIGN expression on BrMMø was reduced even in the IL‐4‐mediated enhanced state. Some reduction may be caused by type I interferons (IFNs), such as IFN‐α/β, secreted from BrMMø. Indeed, both IFNs, particularly IFN‐β, showed a strong capacity to suppress the enhancement of DC‐SIGN expression on IL‐4‐treated BrMMø and such TLR3‐mediated DC‐SIGN suppression was partially abrogated by the addition of anti‐IFN‐α/β‐receptor‐specific antibodies. As expected, DC‐SIGN‐mediated HIV‐1 transmission to CD4‐positive cells by BrMMø was inhibited by either poly(I:C) stimulation or by treatment with type I IFNs. These findings suggest a possible strategy for preventing mother‐to‐child transmission (MTCT) of HIV‐1 via breast‐feeding through TLR3 signalling.
Seladin‐1 is a novel lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐responsive gene and inhibits the tumour necrosis factor‐α production and osteoclast formation in response to LPS
Authors: Khuda Imtiaz I.‐E. , Koide Naoki , Noman Abu S. M. , Dagvadorj Jargalsaikhan , Tumurkhuu Gantsetseg , Naiki Yoshikazu , Komatsu Takayuki , Yoshida Tomoaki , Yokochi Takashi
Published: April 2010

Selective Alzheimer disease indicator‐1 (seladin‐1) is a broadly expressed oxidoreductase and is related to Alzheimer disease, cholesterol metabolism and carcinogenesis. The effect of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on the expression of seladin‐1 was examined using RAW 264.7 macrophage‐like cells and murine peritoneal macrophages. Lipopolysaccharide induced the expression of seladin‐1 protein and messenger RNA in those macrophages. The seladin‐1 expression was also augmented by a series of Toll‐like receptor ligands. The LPS augmented the expression of seladin‐1 via reactive oxygen species generation and p38 activation. Seladin‐1 inhibited LPS‐induced activation of p38 but not nuclear factor‐κB and inhibited the production of tumour necrosis factor‐α in response to LPS. Moreover, seladin‐1 inhibited LPS‐induced osteoclast formation and enhanced LPS‐induced alkaline phosphatase activity. Therefore, it was suggested that seladin‐1 might be an LPS‐responsible gene product and regulate the LPS‐induced inflammatory response negatively.
Pain and fear in connection to orthodontic extractions of deciduous canines
Authors: SJÖGREN ANDERS , ARNRUP KRISTINA , JENSEN CHARLOTTA , KNUTSSON IA , HUGGARE JAN
Published: April 2010

International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry 2010; 20: 193–200

Background.  Interceptive extractions of deciduous canines are, from a patient perspective, poorly investigated.

Aims.  To describe pain, discomfort, and dental fear in connection to extractions of the deciduous canines, indicated as an orthodontic treatment procedure.

Design.  Thirty‐two Swedish children aged 7–9 years had all four deciduous canines extracted over three occasions. The children rated procedural and postoperative pain on visual analogue scales. Acceptance of injections and extractions was assessed by the treating dentists. Analgesic consumption and recovery time for drinking and eating was reported by parents. Dental fear was assessed using the Children’s Fear Survey Schedule questionnaire.

Results.  Procedural pain showed low median levels, although some individuals reported high values. Boys reported significantly more pain at appointments when two (as opposed to one) canines were extracted. Postoperative pain levels were low and use of analgesics sparse. Dental fear paralleled norm values and did not increase from pre‐ to post‐extraction.

Conclusions.  Pain management routines during extractions of this kind should be revised. Single tooth extractions seem to be preferable to extractions of two canines at the same appointment. Extraction of four deciduous canines should not cause major postoperative inconvenience; these extractions neither triggered nor increased dental fear.
Quality of care issues for dysphagia: modifications involving oral fluids
Authors: Garcia Jane M , Chambers IV Edgar , Clark Megan , Helverson Jennifer , Matta Ziad
Published: April 2010

Aims and objectives.  This study examined practices of health care providers who thicken oral fluids for patients with impaired swallowing (dysphagia). It contrasts viscosity (thickness) of nectar‐like and honey‐thick consistencies prepared and measured in a laboratory setting to actual practices in health care settings and to guidelines of the National Dysphagia Diet.

Background.  The care plans for many patients include changes to fluid thickness to maintain safe intake of oral fluids. Serving patients improperly prepared beverages may contribute to medical complications such as dehydration if patients consume less fluid, or aspiration of overly thin or thickened liquids, which may increase the risk of pneumonia.

Design.  Descriptive analysis of group trends for viscosity measurements of liquids prepared by health care providers in four care settings to laboratory measurements and the National Dysphagia Diet.

Methods.  Forty‐two health care providers participated. Each prepared thickened samples in their natural work environment using typical procedures.

Results.  Viscosity measurements of modified liquids prepared by health care providers did not compare favourably to published findings of laboratory viscosity measures or to the ranges of the National Dysphagia Diet. Participants who prepared overly thick or overly thin nectar‐like liquids followed a similar pattern with honey‐like samples. Many participants failed to use product label information in sample preparation.

Conclusions.  Results suggest that many patients are served modified liquids that are too thick or too thin in relation to their target level of thickness, possibly increasing risk of further medical complications for those who consume them. Product directions that are too vague or general also may contribute to inaccurate results.

Relevance to clinical practice.  The patient’s nursing staff typically oversees nutritional care plans that may include modifications to oral fluids to enable their patients to safely drink by mouth. Additional consideration should be given to training procedures and possible noncompliance with preparation guidelines.
KRE genes are required for β‐1,6‐glucan synthesis, maintenance of capsule architecture and cell wall protein anchoring in Cryptococcus neoformans
Authors: Gilbert Nicole M. , Donlin Maureen J. , Gerik Kimberly J. , Specht Charles A. , Djordjevic Julianne T. , Wilson Christabel F. , Sorrell Tania C. , Lodge Jennifer K.
Published: April 2010

The polysaccharide β‐1,6‐glucan is a major component of the cell wall of Cryptococcus neoformans, but its function has not been investigated in this fungal pathogen. We have identified and characterized seven genes, belonging to the KRE family, which are putatively involved in β‐1,6‐glucan synthesis. The H99 deletion mutants kre5Δ and kre6Δskn1Δ contained less cell wall β‐1,6‐glucan, grew slowly with an aberrant morphology, were highly sensitive to environmental and chemical stress and were avirulent in a mouse inhalation model of infection. These two mutants displayed alterations in cell wall chitosan and the exopolysaccharide capsule, a primary cryptococcal virulence determinant. The cell wall content of the GPI‐anchored phospholipase B1 (Plb1) enzyme, which is required for cryptococcal cell wall integrity and virulence, was reduced in kre5Δ and kre6Δskn1Δ. Our results indicate that KRE5, KRE6 and SKN1 are involved in β‐1,6‐glucan synthesis, maintenance of cell wall integrity and retention of mannoproteins and known cryptococcal virulence factors in the cell wall of C. neoformans. This study sets the stage for future investigations into the function of this abundant cell wall polymer.