bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Na+/H+ antiporter activity of the SOS1 gene: lifetime imaging analysis and electrophysiological studies on Arabidopsis seedlings
Authors: Guo Kun‐Mei , Babourina Olga , Rengel Zed
Published: August 2009

Based on sequence analysis, the salt overly sensitive (SOS1) gene has been suggested to function as a Na+/H+ antiporter located at the plasma membrane of plant cells, being expressed mostly in the meristem zone of the root and in the parenchyma cells surrounding the vascular tissue of the stem. In this study, we compared net H+ and Ca2+ fluxes and intracellular pH and [Ca2+]cyt in the root meristem zone of Arabidopsis wild‐type (WT) and sos mutants before and after salt stress. In addition, we studied the effect of pretreatment with amiloride (an inhibitor of Na+/H+ antiporters) on net ion fluxes, intracellular pH and intracellular Ca2+ activity ([Ca2+]cyt) in WT plants and sos1 mutants before and after salt stress. Net ion fluxes were measured using microelectrode ion flux estimation (MIFE) and intracellular pH and [Ca2+]cyt using fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) techniques. During the first 15 min after NaCl application, sos1 mutants showed net H+ efflux and intracellular alkalinization in the meristem zone, whereas sos2 and sos3 mutants and WT showed net H+ influx and slight intracellular acidification in the meristem zone. Treatment with amiloride led to intracellular acidification and lower net H+ flux in WT plants and to a decrease in intracellular Ca2+ in WT and sos1 plants. WT plants pretreated with amiloride did not show positive net H+ flux and intracellular acidification. After NaCl application, internal pH shifted to higher values in WT and sos1 plants. However, absolute values of H+ fluxes were higher and internal pH values were lower in WT plants pretreated with amiloride compared with sos1 mutants. Therefore, the SOS1 transporter is involved in H+ influx into the meristem zone of Arabidopsis roots, or it may function as a Na+/H+ antiporter. Amiloride affects SOS1 and other Na+/H+ antiporters in plant cells because of its ability to decrease the H+ gradient across the plasma membrane.
Phytochrome‐mediated growth inhibition of seminal roots in rice seedlings
Authors: Shimizu Hisayo , Tanabata Takanari , Xie Xianzhi , Inagaki Noritoshi , Takano Makoto , Shinomura Tomoko , Yamamoto Kotaro T.
Published: August 2009

In rice (Oryza sativa) seedlings, continuous white‐light irradiation inhibited the growth of seminal roots but promoted the growth of crown roots. In this study, we examined the mechanisms of photoinhibition of seminal root growth. Photoinhibition occurred in the absence of nitrogen but increased with increasing nitrogen concentrations. In the presence of nitrogen, photoinhibition was correlated with coiling of the root tips. The seminal roots were most photosensitive 48–72 h after germination during the 7‐day period after germination. White‐light irradiation for at least 6 h was required for photoinhibition, and the Bunsen–Roscoe law of reciprocity was not observed. Experiments with phytochrome mutants showed that far‐red light was perceived exclusively by phyA, red light was perceived by both phyA and phyB, and phyC had little or no role in growth inhibition or coiling of the seminal roots. These results also suggest that other blue‐light photoreceptors are involved in growth inhibition of the seminal roots. Fluence‐response curve analyses showed that phyA and phyB control very low‐fluence response and low‐fluence response, respectively, in the seminal roots. This was essentially the same as the growth inhibition previously observed at the late stage of coleoptile development (80 h after germination). The photoperceptive site for the root growth inhibition appeared to be the roots themselves. All three phytochrome species of rice were detected immunochemically in roots.
Growth and nutritive value of cassava (Manihot esculenta Cranz.) are reduced when grown in elevated CO2
Authors: Gleadow Roslyn M. , Evans John R. , McCaffery Stephanie , Cavagnaro Timothy R.
Published: August 2009

Global food security in a changing climate depends on both the nutritive value of staple crops as well as their yields. Here, we examined the direct effect of atmospheric CO2 on cassava (Manihot esculenta Cranz., manioc), a staple for 750 million people worldwide. Cassava is poor in nutrients and contains high levels of cyanogenic glycosides that break down to release toxic hydrogen cyanide when damaged. We grew cassava at three concentrations of CO2 (Ca: 360, 550 and 710 ppm) supplied together with nutrient solution containing either 1 mM or 12 mM nitrogen. We found that total plant biomass and tuber yield (number and mass) decreased linearly with increasing Ca. In the worst‐case scenario, tuber mass was reduced by an order of magnitude in plants grown at 710 ppm compared with 360 ppm CO2. Photosynthetic parameters were consistent with the whole plant biomass data. It is proposed that since cassava stomata are highly sensitive to other environmental variables, the decrease in assimilation observed here might, in part, be a direct effect of CO2 on stomata. Total N (used here as a proxy for protein content) and cyanogenic glycoside concentrations of the tubers were not significantly different in the plants grown at elevated CO2. By contrast, the concentration of cyanogenic glycosides in the edible leaves nearly doubled in the highest Ca. If leaves continue to be used as a protein supplement, they will need to be more thoroughly processed in the future. With increasing population density, declining soil fertility, expansion into marginal farmland, together with the predicted increase in extreme climatic events, reliance on robust crops such as cassava will increase. The responses to CO2 shown here point to the possibility that there could be severe food shortages in the coming decades unless CO2 emissions are dramatically reduced, or alternative cultivars or crops are developed.
Canopy CO2 exchange of sugar beet under different CO2 concentrations and nitrogen supply: results from a free‐air CO2 enrichment study
Authors: Burkart S. , Manderscheid R. , Weigel H.‐J.
Published: August 2009

Sugar beet (Beta vulgaris ssp. altissima Döll) was grown in the field under free‐air CO2 enrichment (FACE, 550 ppm) and different nitrogen (N) supply (2001: 126 (N100) and 63 kg·ha−1 (N50); 2004: 156 (N100) and 75 kg·ha−1) during two crop rotations. Canopy CO2 exchange rates (CCER) were measured during the main growth phase (leaf area index ≥2) using a dynamic chamber system. Canopy CO2 exchange data were analysed with respect to treatment effects on seasonal means and light use efficiency and light response characteristics. CO2 enrichment enhanced CCER throughout the season. However, in both years, CCER declined after the second half of August independent of radiation and [CO2]. Elevated [CO2] strongly stimulated CCER on a seasonal basis, whereas the reduction of CCER caused by low N was below 10% and not significant. There were no effects of N on daily radiation use efficiency of carbon gain calculated from CCER data, but a strong enhancement by CO2 enrichment. CCER closely tracked diurnal variations in incident photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD, μmol·m−2·s−1). The relationship between CCER and incident PPFD was curvilinear. In both seasons, initial slopes and maximum rates (CCERmax) were determined from two 6‐day periods using these relationships. The first period was measured after canopy closure (first half of July) and the second in the second half of August. In the first period, elevated [CO2] increased the initial slopes. Low N supply affected neither the initial slopes nor their response to elevated [CO2] in either period. In contrast to initial slopes, N stress limited the [CO2] response of CCERmax in the first period. In the second period, however, this interaction of [CO2] and N on CCERmax was completely dominated by a general decline of CCERmax whereas no general decline of the initial slopes occurred in the second period. This response of light response parameters to [CO2] and N suggests that, in sugar beet, the decline of CCER in the late season may rely on limiting mechanisms such as photosynthetic acclimation responses to elevated [CO2] caused by sink limitations.
Should Industrial Policy in Developing Countries Conform to Comparative Advantage or Defy it? A Debate Between Justin Lin and Ha‐Joon Chang
Authors: Lin Justin , Chang Ha‐Joon
Published: August 2009

This is the first in an occasional series of DPR Debates, designed to illuminate specific issues of international development policy. Each debate will bring together two well‐known researchers or practitioners, giving them the opportunity, over three rounds, to test and challenge each other's ideas. The debates are intended to be robust but accessible, rooted in rigorous research but useful to the wide readership of Development Policy Review.
Are Geographical Indications a Valid Property Right? Global Trends and Challenges
Authors: Ilbert Hélène , Petit Michel
Published: August 2009

This article explores what is at stake in the international conflict on geographical indications (GIs), particularly for developing countries. It first examines how the WTO panel has obliged the European Union to open its registration system to third countries and how the ongoing negotiations on GIs seem to be reaching stalemate. Initiatives showing how GIs are a key political and trade issue are identified in Turkey, India, China, Colombia and Ethiopia. Trade negotiation agendas have to handle this new balance of power, in which the reputation accompanying a good may become common.
From the Theory of Aid Effectiveness to the Practice: The European Commission's Governance Incentive Tranche
Authors: Molenaers Nadia , Nijs Leen
Published: August 2009

Around the turn of the millennium a growing consensus emerged on the dos and don'ts of development assistance, based on lessons drawn from failed aid. Donors now increasingly see aid as a leverage to induce or support governance reforms in recipient countries. The EC, which considers itself to be a forerunner of the new aid approach, has recently launched a new instrument to incentivise such reforms: the ‘Governance Incentive Tranche’. However, the evidence presented in this article suggests that, in design and practice, the incentive tranche is surprisingly similar to some of the unsuccessful aid modalities of the past.
From Rome to Accra via Kigali: ‘Aid Effectiveness’ in Rwanda
Authors: Hayman Rachel
Published: August 2009

Since the mid‐2000s, significant strides have been made in Rwanda to implement the ‘aid effectiveness’ agenda as captured in the 2005 Paris Declaration on Aid Effectiveness. This article explores the historical evolution of this process since 1994, exposing the complex manoeuvring to establish workable practices, and the less visible political implications of this agenda. The Rwandan government is considered to have strong ‘ownership’ of aid strategies. However, the article demonstrates that the concept of progressive ownership implicit within ‘aid effectiveness’ discourse is misleading. The evidence points rather to joint ownership between donor and recipient, reflecting limitations to the amount of control over aid that donors will cede.
Two‐year‐olds are vigilant of others’ non‐verbal cues to credibility
Authors: Birch Susan A. J. , Akmal Nazanin , Frampton Kristen L.
Published: August 2009

Data from three experiments provide the first evidence that children, at least as young as age two, are vigilant of others’ non‐verbal cues to credibility, and flexibly use these cues to facilitate learning. Experiment 1 revealed that 2‐ and 3‐year‐olds prefer to learn about objects from someone who appears, through non‐verbal cues, to be confident in performing actions on those objects than from someone who appears uncertain when performing actions on those objects. Experiment 2 revealed that when 2‐year‐olds observe only one model perform a single action, either confidently or unconfidently, they do not use the model’s level of confidence in this single instance to influence their learning. Experiment 3 revealed that 2‐year‐olds will use a single model’s level of confidence to guide their learning if they have observed that the model has a history of being either consistently confident or consistently uncertain. These findings reveal that young children selectively alter their learning based on others’ non‐verbal cues of credibility, and underscore the importance of an early sensitivity to socio‐cognitive cues for human learning and development.
VERTICAL AND HORIZONTAL ECONOMIES IN THE ELECTRIC UTILITY INDUSTRY: AN INTEGRATED APPROACH
Authors: Piacenza Massimiliano , Vannoni Davide
Published: August 2009

ABSTRACT**:  The empirical literature on the cost structure of the electric utility industry traditionally focused on the measurement of specific technological properties: 1) scale economies in generation or distribution; 2) multi‐product (or horizontal) scope economies at one particular stage; 3) multi‐stage (or vertical) scope economies. By adopting an integrated approach, which simultaneously considers both horizontal and vertical aspects of the technology, we find the presence, on a sample of Italian electric utilities, of both vertical integration gains and horizontal scope economies at the downstream stage. In the light of recent regulatory reforms aiming at restructuring European electricity markets, our findings have important policy implications as for the proper configuration of the industry. Moreover, this methodology can be usefully applied to the study of the production structure of other public network utilities involved in similar vertical and horizontal reorganization processes.
RETAIL PRICE REGULATION AND THE OPTION TO DELAY
Authors: Camacho Fernando T. , Menezes Flavio M.
Published: August 2009

ABSTRACT**:  This paper examines a two‐period model of an investment decision in a network industry characterized by demand uncertainty, economies of scale and sunk costs. In the absence of regulation we identify the market conditions under which a monopolist decides to invest early as well as the underlying overall welfare output. In a regulated environment, we consider a monopolist who faces no downstream (final good) competition but is subject to retail price regulation. We identify the welfare‐maximizing regulated prices when the unregulated market outcome is set as the benchmark. We show that if the regulator can commit to ex post regulation – that is, regulated prices that are contingent to future demand realization – then regulated prices that allow the firm to recover its total costs of production are welfare‐maximizing. Thus, under ex post price regulation there is no need to compensate the regulated firm for the option to delay that it foregoes when investing today. We argue, however, that regulators cannot make this type of commitment and, therefore, price regulation is often ex ante – that is, regulated prices are not contingent to future demand. We show that the optimal ex ante regulation, and the extent to which regulated prices need to incorporate an option to delay, depend on the nature of demand uncertainty.
Master‐planned residential developments: Beyond iconic spaces of neoliberalism?
Authors: McGuirk Pauline , Dowling Robyn
Published: August 2009

Master‐planned residential development has proliferated as a new residential phenomenon in metropolitan areas globally. The trend, the new governance mechanisms it entails and resultant forms of urban development have been critically theorised as products and vectors of neoliberalisation and iconic spaces of the neoliberal city. However, tracing the emergence and enactment of master‐planned residential estate (MPRE) development in Sydney, Australia, this paper suggests that more contingent and contextualised theorisations of such spaces can reveal possibilities for animating a different politics of MPREs. Deploying theorisation sensitive to the multiple drivers, logics and political projects played out through MPRE development in situated contexts, the paper traces the political genesis of these developments in Sydney, outlines the multiple drivers and logics accounting for their growing popularity and points to the salience of the complex performance of land and housing markets in their production. The post‐structural political economy approach used here to investigate MPRE development can overcome the politically constraining effects of the dominant neoliberal critique. It does so, first, by opening analysis up to the importance of logics, actions and contexts that are irreducible to neoliberalism and, second, by gesturing towards the potential for an alternative politics to be animated through mechanisms, techniques and processes of MPRE development habitually associated with neoliberalism.
‘Rooms and moments’ in neoliberalising policy trajectories of metropolitan Auckland, New Zealand: Towards constituting progressive spaces through post‐structural political economy
Authors: Le Heron Richard
Published: August 2009

This paper seeks to open up what economic geographers think they can do as academics engaging in the policy realm. It draws on the author's role as an academic and his policy persona as academic expert and academic with expertise that has been guided by post‐structural political economy (PSPE) thinking. It is Auckland‐centred, situated in three trajectories: PSPE thought and practice developing at the University of Auckland, the Auckland Regional Economic Development Strategy (AREDS) trajectory of the Auckland Regional Council and Auckland City Council's sustainability trajectory. The paper recovers in PSPE terms dimensions of two 2006 policy moments, those of the Metropolitan Auckland Project (MAP) and the Mayoral Taskforce on Sustainable Development (MTSD), in which the author participated. Placing intellectual (PSPE) and policy trajectories (growth and sustainability) into conversation allows a unique exploration of co‐constitutive dimensions between academy and policy worlds. Conceptually and methodologically, the moments in the policy trajectories are accessed by (i) analytic description of the policy trajectory from the outside in terms of academic understandings of institutional processes and (ii) in‐the‐room deliberations about policy decision possibilities. New insights about academy‐policy relations emerge from the PSPE focus on rooms and moments.
On the economic interdependence between China and Japan: Challenges and possibilities
Authors: Alvstam Claes G. , Ström Patrik , Yoshino Naoyuki
Published: August 2009

The paper presents an analysis of the economic relationship between the two most important economies in Asia. Over the last decades, the Chinese and Japanese economies have become more economically interdependent, a development which will, in the long run, impact the countries' political relationship. The paper seeks to answer the question: How can China and Japan gain from the current economic situation, further enhance their relationship and increase their synergies for regional economic development? Data on trade and Foreign Direct Investment are used in combination with primary data from interviews with Japanese and Chinese companies on how they perceive the current business situation and future potential. The result of the data analysis shows that the countries have much to gain from their economic interdependence. The firms see great potential in their respective markets but are concerned about political turbulence. Three possible scenarios for the future economic relationship are presented, including fierce competition on all markets and a leveraging of resources for mutual development between Chinese and Japanese companies.
Public intervention, private aspiration: Gated communities and the condominisation of housing landscapes in Singapore
Authors: Pow Choon‐Piew
Published: August 2009

While the proliferation of gated communities worldwide has generated great interests and debates, the emergence of gated communities is by no means a ‘global’ urban phenomenon that displays uniform characteristics and genesis. Drawing on Singapore as a case study, this paper goes beyond the universalising and often polemical discourses on gated communities to provide a balanced account on how gated communities in the form of enclosed condominium estates are locally embedded in the city state where public housing dominates. As will be pointed out in the paper, gated communities in Singapore may be considered as a form of ‘club good’ that exists as part of the state's urban/national developmental agenda and are, arguably, less socially and spatially divisive than those depicted elsewhere. By teasing out the local specificities of gated communities, this paper underscores the need to read beyond the physical form of gated communities in order to understand the complex social and political production of housing landscapes.
DEMOCRACY IN DECENT NONLIBERAL NATIONS: A DEFENSE
Authors: HERR RANJOO SEODU
Published: August 2009

Western democracy theorists accept the “liberal democracy thesis” and claim that the only morally justifiable conception of democracy is liberal democracy regulated by substantive liberal values. According to this thesis, democracy not regulated by liberal values in nonliberal nations, if at all feasible, necessarily leads to the oppression of minorities and is therefore morally unjustifiable. This article aims to refute the liberal democracy thesis by arguing that democracy in “decent” nonliberal nations is not only feasible but also morally justifiable.
The reliability of user authentication through keystroke dynamics
Authors: Douhou Salima , Magnus Jan R.
Published: August 2009

When typing on a keyboard a user can be authenticated through what he/she types (username, password), but also through how he/she types, that is, through keystroke dynamics. We study whether authentication through keystroke dynamics is sufficiently reliable as a security instrument to be used together with the more standard instruments. Based on a data set of 1254 participants who typed the same username and password, 20 times each, we develop a test statistic and obtain the power of our test. We conclude that keystroke dynamics can be a reliable security instrument for authentication, if used together with other instruments. It seems more suitable for authentication (verification) than for identification. Dwell times (how long a key is held pressed) are more discriminatory and therefore more powerful than flight times (time between consecutive press times).
Guidelines and Ethical Considerations for Assessment Center Operations1
Authors:   International Task Force on Assessment Center Guidelines
Published: August 2009

This document is an update of several prior editions of guidelines and ethical considerations for assessment center operations dating back to 1975. Each set of guidelines was developed and endorsed by specialists in the research, development, and implementation of assessment centers. The guidelines are a statement of the considerations believed to be most important for all users of the assessment center method. For instance, the use of job‐related simulations is a core concept when using the method. Job simulation exercises allow individuals to demonstrate their abilities in situations that are important on the job. As stressed in these guidelines, a procedure should not be represented as an assessment center unless it includes at least one, and usually several, job‐related simulations that require the assessee to demonstrate a constructed behavioral response. Other important areas include assessor selection and training, using ‘competencies’ as dimensions to be assessed, validation, participants' rights, and the incorporation of technology into assessment center programs. The current guidelines discuss a number of considerations in developing and using assessment centers in diverse cultural settings.
Effect of Framing on Applicants' Reactions to Personnel Selection Methods
Authors: Gamliel Eyal , Peer Eyal
Published: August 2009

This research demonstrates the effect of framing on applicants' reactions to two personnel selection methods: undergraduate grade point average and personnel interview scores. Presenting a selection situation framed positively (to accept applicants) caused applicants to rate both selection methods more favorably relative to presenting them with an identical selection situation framed negatively (to reject the remaining applicants). Framing affected reactions that emphasized distributive justice aspects of the selection situation and procedural justice aspects. The results are consistent with Prospect theory and with Fairness Heuristic theory. The paper offers a theoretical explanation for the effect of framing on applicants' reactions to personnel selection methods, discusses the implications of this effect, and suggests directions for future research.
Electrophysiological indices of abnormal error‐processing in adolescents with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Authors: Groom Madeleine J. , Cahill John D. , Bates Alan T. , Jackson Georgina M. , Calton Timothy G. , Liddle Peter F. , Hollis Chris
Published: August 2009

Background:  Impaired cognitive control has been frequently observed in children and young people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and might underlie the excessive hyperactivity and impulsivity in this population. We investigated behavioural and electrophysiological indices relevant to one domain of cognitive control; namely error processing.

Methods:  Adolescents aged 14 to 17 with ADHD (n = 23) and a typically developing control group (HC; n = 19) performed a visual go/no‐go task. Electro‐encephalography (EEG) data were collected simultaneously and response‐locked error trials were averaged to derive two event‐related potentials, the error‐related negativity (ERN) and error positivity (Pe). Evoked theta power and inter‐trial phase coherence (ITC) were measured in two time windows (‘early’ and ‘late’) equivalent to those used for detection of the ERN and Pe.

Results:  Analysis revealed normal ERN amplitude and a statistical trend for smaller Pe amplitude at a fronto‐central electrode site in the ADHD group. The group also showed significant reductions in late evoked theta power and early and late theta ITC. Relationships between behavioural measures and ITC were different between groups, particularly for post‐error slowing, a measure of strategic response adjustment on trials immediately following an error.

Conclusions:  The results reveal abnormalities in behavioural and electrophysiological indices of error processing in adolescents with ADHD and suggest that ITC is more sensitive than traditional ERP measures to error‐processing abnormalities.
Motor imagery training in hemiplegic cerebral palsy: a potentially useful therapeutic tool for rehabilitation
Authors: STEENBERGEN BERT , CRAJÉ CÉLINE , NILSEN DAWN M , GORDON ANDREW M
Published: August 2009

Converging evidence indicates that motor deficits in cerebral palsy (CP) are related not only to problems with execution, but also to impaired motor planning. Current rehabilitation mainly focuses on alleviating compromised motor execution. Motor imagery is a promising method of training the more ‘cognitive’ aspects of motor behaviour, and may, therefore, be effective in facilitating motor planning in patients with CP. In this review first we present the specific motor planning problems in CP followed by a discussion of motor imagery and its use in clinical practice. Second, we present the steps to be taken before motor imagery can be used for rehabilitation of upper limb functioning in CP. Motor imagery training has been shown to be a useful addition to existing rehabilitation protocols for poststroke rehabilitation. No such study has been conducted in CP. The age at which children can reliably use motor imagery, as well as the specific way in which motor imagery training needs to be implemented, must be researched before motor imagery training can be employed in children with CP. Based on the positive results for poststroke rehabilitation, and in light of the motor problems in CP, motor imagery training may be a valuable additional tool for rehabilitation in CP.
Non‐adrenergic non‐cholinergic inhibition of gastrointestinal smooth muscle and its intracellular mechanism(s)
Authors: Matsuda Nilce Mitiko , Miller Steven M.
Published: August 2009

Relaxation of gastrointestinal smooth muscle caused by release of non‐adrenergic non‐cholinergic (NANC) transmitters from enteric nerves occurs in several physiologic digestive reflexes. Likely candidate NANC inhibitory agents include nitric oxide (NO), adenosine triphosphate (ATP), vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), pituitary adenylate cyclase‐activating peptide (PACAP), carbon monoxide (CO), protease‐activated receptors (PARs), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), neurotensin (NT) and beta‐nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (β‐NAD). Multiple NANC transmitters work in concert, are pharmacologically coupled and are closely coordinated. Individual contribution varies regionally in the gastrointestinal tract and between species. NANC inhibition of gastrointestinal smooth muscle involves several intracellular mechanisms, including increase of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), increase of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and hyperpolarization of the cell membrane via direct or indirect activation of potassium ion (K+) channels.
Effects of Native Plant Species, Mycorrhizal Inoculum, and Mulch on Restoration of Reservoir Sediment Following Dam Removal, Elwha River, Olympic Peninsula, Washington
Authors: Cook Kerri L. , Wallender Wesley W. , Bledsoe Caroline S. , Pasternack Gregory , Upadhyaya Shrini K.
Published: August 2009

As dams across the country continue to age, successful restoration of dewatered reservoirs remains a critical factor in decisions regarding dam removal. Freshly exposed reservoir sediment may not support rapid reestablishment of native plant species due to poor fertility or absence of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi propagules. This field study evaluated treatment effects involving combinations of native plants, mycorrhizal inoculum, and mulch on restoration of dewatered reservoir sediment over 20 months. Most plants, even those uninoculated, became mycorrhizal. In all treatments, sediment pH decreased, as did nitrogen and organic matter, compared to original reservoir sediment, while aggregate stability doubled from original anaerobic sediment. Revegetated plots with mulch had significantly greater vegetation cover and more native volunteer species compared to plots without mulch. The planted mulch treatment also decreased plot runoff tenfold, reducing erosion to the same degree. Indicators suggest that the primary benefit of mulch resulted in increased moisture retention making the planted mulch treatment most successful for restoration of reservoir sediment due to extensive native plant growth, improved soil characteristics, and reduced runoff and erosion compared to nonmulched plots. While results from this plot‐scale study suggest commercial mycorrhizal inoculum is unnecessary since natural inoculum sources sufficiently colonized plants, reservoir‐scale restoration may require creation of additional source areas to encourage rapid reestablishment of native plants and mycorrhizal fungi.
Fire and Fertilization Effects on the Growth and Spread of Rhizome‐Transplanted Giant Cane (Arundinaria gigantea)
Authors: Zaczek James J. , Baer Sara G. , Dalzotto David J.
Published: August 2009

In the United States, clonal bamboo stands dominated by giant cane (Arundinaria gigantea), historically described as “canebrakes,” have been largely degraded or replaced by land conversion to agriculture. Due to limited and sporadic flowering and seed production of this species, restoration typically requires transplanting rhizomes, but there is limited information on establishment success and factors that influence growth and clonal spread of transplanted stock. We tested the effects of fertilization and prescribed fire applied alone and in combination on the growth and spread of giant cane in a 4‐year old planting. In rows containing transplanted rhizomes, multiple aspects of giant cane establishment (i.e., percent cover, culm density, height, diameter, and lateral spread) increased over time. Following 2 years of inorganic nutrient (N, P, and K) addition, there was a decrease in culm mortality. Giant cane exhibited reduced cover, height, and culm diameter over the short‐term in response to prescribed burning. Fertilization did not offset the short‐term negative impact of fire on these variables. However, burning increased culm density in planted rows and adjacent areas. In conclusion, fertilizing establishing giant cane may reduce mortality, and periodic burning can increase density and spread of this species, which should promote establishment over the long‐term.
Response of Terrestrial Invertebrates to High‐ and Low‐Diversity Grassland Restorations in South‐Central Nebraska
Authors: Davis Craig A. , Utrup Jill Sporrong
Published: August 2009

Successful grassland restorations are influenced by the diversity of seed mixes initially sowed in the restoration. Two common seed mixes used in grassland restorations are high‐ and low‐diversity mixes. The type of seed mixture used in restorations may affect invertebrate diversity and abundances that occur in restorations. We compared terrestrial invertebrate diversity and abundances between high‐ and low‐diversity restorations in south‐central Nebraska. Pitfall trap and sweep net sampling were used to assess invertebrate communities from six low‐ and six high‐diversity plantings. Our results did not clearly demonstrate that terrestrial invertebrate assemblages respond better to high‐diversity plantings than low‐diversity plantings. There was no difference in total abundance, family richness, or diversity of invertebrates between the plantings. Composition of invertebrate communities was similar between plantings. Araneae and Acrididae were the only major taxa that differed in abundances between plantings. Similarity of invertebrate communities in plantings is likely attributed to lack of plant architectural complexity, absence of host‐plants, and time‐lag effects in high‐diversity plantings. Because recovery time of high‐diversity plantings lagged considerably behind low‐diversity plantings, invertebrate communities in high‐diversity plantings were likely to be in early stages of development, but will likely become more diverse and abundant as the planting matures. Consequently, our results emphasize the need for long‐term monitoring of invertebrate and plant communities in grassland restorations. Additionally, discrepancies in types and abundances of captured invertebrates between pitfall trapping and sweep netting emphasizes the need to use more than one sampling method when using invertebrates to monitor and assess restoration success.
Early Establishment of a Native Grass Reduces the Competitive Effect of a Non‐Native Grass
Authors: Stevens Jason M. , Fehmi Jeffrey S.
Published: August 2009

Buffelgrass (Pennisetum ciliare (L.) Link), a C4 perennial bunchgrass native to Africa and parts of Asia, has invaded broadly across the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. Buffelgrass establishment may occur earlier than the natives it displaces which may preempt resource acquisition by native species and contribute to its invasion success. In a greenhouse, buffelgrass aboveground growth was tested against Arizona cottontop (Digitaria californica (Benth.) Henr.), a native C4 perennial bunchgrass, in pairwise combinations in a randomized complete block factorial design with 10 replications, three neighbor identities (self, other, and no neighbor), and three competition treatments (21‐day younger neighbor, 21‐day older neighbor, and same‐aged neighbor). When compared with control plants, there was no significant effect on aboveground biomass for older Arizona cottontop plants competing with younger buffelgrass plants (p > 0.05). However, when Arizona cottontop plants were of the same age or younger than buffelgrass plants, buffelgrass caused 95 and 88% reductions, respectively, in aboveground biomass (p < 0.05 in both cases). Intraspecific competition between same‐aged Arizona cottontop plants resulted in only 55% decline in aboveground biomass production (p < 0.05), thus interspecific competition with buffelgrass was more intense than intraspecific competition for Arizona cottontop when plants had similar emergence times. These results suggest that establishing native plants immediately following a disturbance event could be a practical technique for restoring or retaining diversity on sites with high potential for invasion by buffelgrass.
Outbreeding Depression Caused by Intraspecific Hybridization Between Local and Nonlocal Genotypes inAbies sachalinensis
Authors: Goto Susumu , Iijima Hayato , Ogawa Hitomi , Ohya Kazumi
Published: August 2009

To evaluate the effects of intraspecific hybridization of local and nonlocal genotypes on growth traits of progeny inAbies sachalinensis, we performed reciprocal crossing between nonlocal trees in a high‐elevation zone (1,100–1,200 m asl) and local trees in a low‐elevation zone (530 m asl) in Hokkaido, northern Japan, in 1979 and established a common garden experiment using local × local (female × male ), local × nonlocal , nonlocal × local , and nonlocal × nonlocal progeny in the low‐elevation zone in 1986. Survival, height, diameter at breast height (dbh), needle nitrogen content, specific leaf area (SLA), and needle area per shoot diameter (NA) of 25‐year‐old progeny were measured in 2005. The survival rate was consistently high (>85% on average). Reductions in height and dbh were apparent in F1 hybrids compared with local × local progeny. Furthermore, outbreeding depression was significant in height growth of nonlocal × local F1 hybrids and in dbh of both F1 hybrids. Reductions in growth traits may be related to morphological needle traits, such as the low values of SLA and NA. Elevation guidelines forA. sachalinensisseed zones are discussed to ensure the long‐term viability of both restored and native populations.
SEASONAL VARIABILITY OF PHYSICOCHEMICAL AND RHEOLOGICAL PROPERTIES OF ULVAN IN TWOULVASPECIES (CHLOROPHYTA) FROM THE BRITTANY COAST1
Authors: Robic Audrey , Sassi Jean‐François , Dion Patrick , Lerat Yannick , Lahaye Marc
Published: August 2009

The seasonal variability in the extraction yield, physicochemical characteristics, and rheological properties of ulvan from twoUlvaspecies contributing to Brittany “green tides” has been studied. These seaweeds were collected in the water column forUlva armoricanaDion, de Reviers et Coat and on hard substrata forUlva rotundataBliding. The maximum ulvan extraction efficiency was not related to the maximum ulvan content in the seaweeds, but with the active growth period of the seaweeds. Ulvan chemical structure, macromolecular characteristics, and rheological properties were affected by both species and seasons. The proportion of high‐molecular‐weight ulvan was the major factor positively correlated with the gelling properties. Characteristics of ulvan fromU. rotundatasubjected to tides were more affected by seasons than ulvan fromU. armoricanaliving in a more constant environment. These results point to several useful recommendations concerningUlvasp. biomass collected with regard to ulvan characteristics and uses.
A Comparison of GlideScope Video Laryngoscopy Versus Direct Laryngoscopy Intubation in the Emergency Department
Authors: Platts‐Mills Timothy F. , Campagne Danielle , Chinnock Brian , Snowden Brandy , Glickman Larry T. , Hendey Gregory W.
Published: August 2009

Objectives:  The first‐attempt success rate of intubation was compared using GlideScope video laryngoscopy and direct laryngoscopy in an emergency department (ED).

Methods:  A prospective observational study was conducted of adult patients undergoing intubation in the ED of a Level 1 trauma center with an emergency medicine residency program. Patients were consecutively enrolled between August 2006 and February 2008. Data collected included indication for intubation, patient characteristics, device used, initial oxygen saturation, and resident postgraduate year. The primary outcome measure was success with first attempt. Secondary outcome measures included time to successful intubation, intubation failure, and lowest oxygen saturation levels. An attempt was defined as the introduction of the laryngoscope into the mouth. Failure was defined as an esophageal intubation, changing to a different device or physician, or inability to place the endotracheal tube after three attempts.

Results:  A total of 280 patients were enrolled, of whom video laryngoscopy was used for the initial intubation attempt in 63 (22%) and direct laryngoscopy was used in 217 (78%). Reasons for intubation included altered mental status (64%), respiratory distress (47%), facial trauma (9%), and immobilization for imaging (9%). Overall, 233 (83%) intubations were successful on the first attempt, 26 (9%) failures occurred, and one patient received a cricothyrotomy. The first‐attempt success rate was 51 of 63 (81%, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 70% to 89%) for video laryngoscopy versus 182 of 217 (84%, 95% CI = 79% to 88%) for direct laryngoscopy (p = 0.59). Median time to successful intubation was 42 seconds (range, 13 to 350 seconds) for video laryngoscopy versus 30 seconds (range, 11 to 600 seconds) for direct laryngoscopy (p < 0.01).

Conclusions:  Rates of successful intubation on first attempt were not significantly different between video and direct laryngoscopy. However, intubation using video laryngoscopy required significantly more time to complete.
Foreigners Dying in Istanbul
Authors: Uzun Ibrahim , Celbis Osman , Baydar Cetin Lutfi , Alkan Nevzat , Arslan Murat Nihat
Published: August 2009

Abstract:  The study included 411 deaths selected from 14,647 medicolegal deaths autopsied in the Morgue Department of Forensic Medicine Institute Directorate, affiliated with the Ministry of Justice, between 1998 and 2002. Data were collected from court documents, coroner’s investigation reports, and autopsy reports. The parameters of age, gender, nationality and origin, cause and place of death in foreigners dying in Istanbul were evaluated in the study. Out of 14,647 medicolegal deaths, 3.5% were foreigners from 34 different nationalities. The nationality with the highest rate of foreigner deaths (34%) was Romanian. Out of 411 deaths, 74.3% were male and 25.7% were female. Of all cases, 64.4% were tourists visiting Istanbul and 35.6% had a job in Istanbul. Of 146 foreigners employed in Istanbul, 94.5% did not have a work permit, while only 5.5% had a work permit.
Preventing Suicide in Jails and Prisons: Suggestions from Experience with Psychiatric Inpatients
Authors: Pompili Maurizio , Lester David , Innamorati Marco , Del Casale Antonio , Girardi Paolo , Ferracuti Stefano , Tatarelli Roberto
Published: August 2009

Abstract:  Both among psychiatric inpatients and inmates of prisons and jails, suicide is highly prevalent with alarming rates. In many countries, there has been a call for action to prevent such deaths and to educate staff in the early recognition of suicide risk. A careful MedLine search was used to identify relevant papers dealing with suicide prevention in psychiatric inpatients. This paper reviews this research and the policy recommendations that have been developed for psychiatric hospitals in order to reduce the incidence of suicide in their patients. Results derived from this search indicated that these policy recommendations can be applied to suicide prevention in correctional settings, and it is argued that suicide prevention programs in correctional settings can benefit from the research conducted and the policy recommendations for suicide prevention in psychiatric facilities. In conclusion, the best practices for preventing suicides in jail and prison settings should include the following elements: training programs, screening procedures, communication between staff, documentation, internal resources, and debriefing after a suicide.
Morphine Concentrations in Stomach Contents of Intravenous Opioid Overdose Deaths
Authors: Duflou Johan , Darke Shane , Easson Jennifer
Published: August 2009

Abstract:  Death caused by heroin overdose is almost always the result of intravenous injection of the drug in Australia. We briefly describe a case where a heroin overdose was initially thought to be the result of oral ingestion of the drug, primarily as a result of higher concentrations of morphine in stomach contents than in blood. During the subsequent criminal trial and investigation, however, the issue of the entero‐hepatic circulation of morphine was raised as a possible reason for the presence of morphine in the stomach contents. In this study, we report on the distribution of opioids in blood, stomach contents, urine, liver, and bile in 29 deaths caused by intravenous heroin overdose. The mean total and free blood morphine concentrations were 0.60 and 0.32 mg/L, respectively, and the mean stomach contents total morphine concentration was 1.16 mg/kg. All cases had detectable morphine in the stomach contents, and 24 of 29 cases (83%) had higher concentrations of total morphine in stomach contents than in blood. The mean total morphine concentration in bile was c. 100 times that in blood, and the liver total morphine concentration averaged twice that of blood levels. We conclude that the entero‐hepatic circulation of morphine and subsequent reflux of duodenal contents back into the stomach can result in the deposition of morphine in gastric contents. Consequently, the relative levels of opioids in blood and stomach contents cannot be used to determine the site of administration of the drug.
Characteristic Features of Pediatric Firearm Fatalities—Comparisons Between Australia and the United States
Authors: Byard Roger W. , Haas Elisabeth , Marshall Drew T. , Gilbert John D. , Krous Henry F.
Published: August 2009

Abstract:  Gunshot deaths in children less than 17 years of age from Adelaide, SA, Australia (1969–2005) and from San Diego County, CA, United States (1988–2005) were compared. Forty‐two pediatric gunshot fatalities occurred in South Australia (1.1 cases/year; M:F = 30:12). There were 6 accidents (14%), 14 suicides (33%), and 22 homicides (52%). In San Diego there were 185 cases (c.10 cases/year; M:F = 148:37). There were 6 accidents (3%), 42 suicides (23%), 130 homicides (70%), and 7 undetermined cases (4%). The incidence of homicide was significantly higher in San Diego County compared to Adelaide (p < 0.001), with a higher proportion of murder–suicides occurring in Adelaide. There were markedly more accidents and suicides involving males in Adelaide and a far higher number of male homicide victims in San Diego County compared to females. Rifles of 0.22‐caliber were preferred weapons in South Australia, compared to handguns in San Diego County.
Anti‐angiogenic factor endostatin in osteosarcoma
Authors: KIM HYUN‐SOO , LIM SUNG‐JIG , PARK YONG‐KOO
Published: August 2009

Neoplastic neovascularization is regulated not only by stimulators, but also by inhibitors of angiogenesis and might be the result of a net balance between the positive and negative regulators. Endostatin (ES) is a potent inhibitor of angiogenesis. The expression of ES has not been investigated in patients with osteosarcomas (OSAs). The aim of this study was to determine whether there is a correlation between the expression of ES and clinicopathologic parameters and/or outcomes in patients with OSAs. We made tissue microarrays from 46 cases of OSA and analyzed the expression of ES using immunohistochemistry. Staining was assessed in a semi‐quantitative manner by scoring the proportion of positive tumor cells over the total number of tumor cells. A sample was defined as ES‐positive when 10% or more of the tumor cells were stained positively throughout the tumor core. ES was localized to the cytoplasm of the tumor cells. 32.6% (15/46) of the patients were ES‐positive. The expression of ES was positively correlated with tumor size (p = 0.011), histologic grade (p = 0.034), stage (p = 0.025), and distant metastasis (p = 0.036). Our results suggest that the expression of ES is increased in OSA, and ES may be used as a prognostic marker in patients with OSAs.