bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Micro‐environment of olive ridley turtle nests deposited during an aggregated nesting event
Authors: Clusella Trullas S. , Paladino F. V.
Published: May 2007

The hatching success of nests deposited by olive ridley turtles Lepidochelys olivacea during aggregated nesting events (‘arribada’) is typically low and the underlying mechanisms are not clear. In this study, temperature, oxygen and carbon dioxide partial pressures (PO2 and PCO2) of in situ nests as well as nests relocated into a hatchery with clean sand were monitored throughout incubation. Hatching success of hatchery nests was significantly higher than in situ nests (83.1 vs. 21.6%) and mainly resulted from higher mortality of early‐stage embryos. During the first half of incubation, temperature and PCO2 were higher (by 0.6°C and 0.7 kPa, respectively) and PO2 was lower (by 1.1 kPa) within in situ relative to hatchery nests. Because embryo metabolism does not interfere significantly with nest gas contents during the first half of incubation, these results suggest that the greater content of organic matter and/or microorganisms in the sand surrounding in situ nests had an effect on nest gas contents. As PO2 and PCO2 differences were relatively small, microbial activity (such as fungal and bacterial infection) may have caused the early embryo mortality found in situ. Moreover, our results suggest that during the second half of incubation, neither PO2 nor PCO2 reached threshold levels that resulted in the death of embryos or hatchlings. Overall, this study showed a clear benefit of using clean sand to increase hatchling production in arribada beaches and highlights the importance of further investigating the relationship between nest micro‐environment, sand microbial activity and embryo development under natural conditions during these unique nesting events.
Tracks for traffic: microtubules in the plant pathogen Ustilago maydis
Authors: Steinberg Gero
Published: May 2007

Pathogenic development of the corn smut fungus Ustilago maydis depends on the ability of the hypha to grow invasively. Extended hyphal growth and mitosis require microtubules, as revealed by recent studies on the microtubule cytoskeleton. Surprisingly, hyphal tip growth involves only two out of 10 kinesins. Kinesin‐3 is responsible for tip‐directed (anterograde) endosome motility of early endosomes, which are thought to support hyphal elongation by apical membrane recycling. In addition, kinesin‐3, together with kinesin‐1 and myosin‐5, appear to deliver secretory vesicles to the hyphal tip. Kinesin‐1 also affects endosome motility by targeting cytoplasmic dynein to microtubule plus ends. This plus‐end localization of dynein is essential for cell body‐directed (retrograde) endosome motility, but also allows force generation during spindle elongation in mitosis. Furthermore, kinesin‐1 and dynein participate in the organization of the microtubule array, thereby building their own network of tracks for intracellular motility. The recent progress in understanding microtubule‐based processes in U. maydis has revealed an unexpected complexity of motor functions essential for the virulence of this pathogen. Further studies on structural and regulatory requirements for motor activity should help identify novel targets for fungicide development.

Contents

Summary
721

I.
Introduction
722

II.
Organization of the interphase microtubule array in Ustilago maydis
724

III.
Molecular motors in hyphal tip growth of Ustilago maydis
727

IV.
Mechanisms of mitosis
729

V.
Questions and future perspectives
730

Acknowledgements
730

References
731
Effects of Stereotypes About Feminists on Feminist Self-Identification
Authors: Roy Robin E. , Weibust Kristin S. , Miller Carol T.
Published: May 2007

This study examined whether negative stereotypes about feminists serve as a barrier to self-identifying as a feminist. College women were exposed to positive stereotypes about feminists, negative stereotypes about feminists, or were not exposed to stereotypes about feminists (control condition) in a between-participants design. Women who read a paragraph containing positive stereotypes about feminists were twice as likely to self-identify as feminists as women in the control condition or the condition in which they read a paragraph containing negative stereotypes about feminists. Women exposed to positive feminist stereotypes had greater nontraditional gender-role attitudes and performance self-esteem compared to the no-stereotype-control condition.
Body Objectification and Depression in Adolescents: The Role of Gender, Shame, and Rumination
Authors: Grabe Shelly , Hyde Janet Shibley , Lindberg Sara M.
Published: May 2007

Objectification theory posits that the tendency to view oneself as an object to be looked at and evaluated by others negatively affects girls', but not boys', subjective well-being. Although it has been established that women self-objectify more than men, research in this area has been limited to the study of adult college women. The aim in the current longitudinal study was to investigate the role of body shame and rumination in the link between self-objectification and depression among a community sample of girls and boys at ages 11 and 13. Results indicated that adolescent girls reported higher levels of self-objectification, body shame, rumination, and depression than boys. The findings support a model in which body shame and rumination mediate a direct relation between self-objectification and depression among girls; developmentally, the gender difference in self-objectification appears before the gender differences in rumination and depression.
Abused Women's Perspectives on the Criminal Justice System's Response to Domestic Violence
Authors: Barata Paula C.
Published: May 2007

This study used Q methodology to better understand battered women's views about the criminal justice system (CJS). Fifty-eight abused and formerly abused women, representing a broad range of experiences, were involved in the study. Participants sorted 72 statements about domestic violence and the CJS according to how strongly they agreed with each one in relation to the other statements. A small subset of women was interviewed to help illuminate the emerging perspectives. Five perspectives that are new in both their complexity and in their substance were identified: (1) The CJS can be trusted; (2) The CJS has potential, but is ultimately disappointing to victims; (3) Victims should have input into the CJS and be sure they want to use it; (4) The CJS cannot protect women and can make matters worse; and (5) The CJS should be used for her safety, for his rehabilitation, and for justice despite its problems.
Polymorphic microsatellite markers for chromosomal races of Australian morabine grasshoppers (Vandiemenella, viatica species group)
Authors: KAWAKAMI T. , BUTLIN R. K. , PAULL D. J. , COOPER S. J. B
Published: May 2007

Chromosomally diverse Australian morabine grasshoppers (genus Vandiemenella, viatica species group) have parapatric distributions and occasionally hybridize at contact zones. To investigate population genetic structure and the extent of gene flow between chromosomal races/species of Vandiemenella, we isolated and characterized nine polymorphic microsatellite loci and one insertion/deletion polymorphic locus. The numbers of alleles per locus ranged from two to 34 across three chromosomal races on Kangaroo Island, South Australia, and expected heterozygosity within races ranged from 0.00 to 0.94. Inter‐taxon amplification was generally successful within Vandiemenella, but not for other morabine genera.
Use of dopamine in acute renal failure
Authors: Sigrist Nadja E.
Published: May 2007

Objective:To review the current understanding of dopamine and its use in the prevention and treatment of acute renal failure (ARF).

Data sources:Original research articles and scientific reviews.

Human data synthesis:Low‐dose dopamine administration has been shown to increase natriuresis and urinary output in both healthy individuals and in a few small studies in human patients with renal insufficiency. However, in several large meta‐analyses, dopamine treatment did not change mortality or the need for dialysis. Due to the potential side effects, the use of dopamine for prevention and treatment of ARF is no longer recommended in human medicine.

Veterinary data synthesis:Low‐dose dopamine increases urinary output in healthy animals and animal models of ARF if given before the insult. There are no available studies looking at the effect of low‐dose dopamine therapy in naturally occurring ARF in dogs or cats.

Conclusion:Due to the potential side effects of low‐dose dopamine therapy, the results from large human trials, and the lack of information in veterinary medicine, the use of dopamine for treatment of ARF in veterinary patients should be further evaluated.
Evaluation of adding diltiazem therapy to standard treatment of acute renal failure caused by leptospirosis: 18 dogs (1998–2001)
Authors: Mathews Karol A. , Monteith Gabrielle
Published: May 2007

Objective:To assess efficacy and safety of intravenous (IV) diltiazem as a treatment for acute renal failure (ARF) secondary to leptospirosis in dogs.

Design:Retrospective study

Animals:Eighteen dogs with ARF caused byLeptospira spptreated during the months of September to December (1998–2001).

Procedure:All dogs treated for ARF caused byLeptospira sppwere enrolled in the study and were treated with standard care consisting of IV fluids, +/− furosemide, and antibiotics. With owner consent some dogs were treated with diltiazem at 0.1–0.5 mg/kg (0.045–0.22 mg/lb) IV slowly, followed by 1–5 μg/kg/minutes (0.45–2.2 mg/lb/minutes) constant rate infusion. Outcome measures were compared between the 2 groups (diltiazemversusstandard). Diltiazem was administered within 60 hours of admission until serum creatinine fell into the normal range or stabilized. The primary outcome measurement of safety was systolic blood pressure (SBP). The primary measurement of efficacy outcome was the rate and magnitude of reduction of serum creatinine

Results:Eleven out of 18 dogs received diltiazem. The rate of reduction in creatinine in the diltiazem group was 1.76 times faster than the standard group (P=0.054). Recovery of renal function showed a trend towards significant association with treatment group (exactP=0.08, odds ratio=3.62). This effect may be clinically relevant. Diltiazem had no clinically relevant effect on SBP.

Conclusions and clinical relevance:Renal recovery in dogs with acute renal failure secondary to leptospirosis is improved with the administration of diltiazem in addition to ‘standard’ therapy.
Pacific Salmon Extinctions: Quantifying Lost and Remaining Diversity
Authors: GUSTAFSON RICHARD G. , WAPLES ROBIN S. , MYERS JAMES M. , WEITKAMP LAURIE A. , BRYANT GREGORY J. , JOHNSON ORLAY W. , HARD JEFFREY J.
Published: May 2007

Abstract:  Widespread population extirpations and the consequent loss of ecological, genetic, and life‐history diversity can lead to extinction of evolutionarily significant units (ESUs) and species. We attempted to systematically enumerate extinct Pacific salmon populations and characterize lost ecological, life history, and genetic diversity types among six species of Pacific salmon (Chinook [Oncorhynchus tshawytscha], sockeye [O. nerka], coho [O. kisutch], chum [O. keta], and pink salmon [O. gorbuscha] and steelhead trout [O. mykiss]) from the western contiguous United States. We estimated that, collectively, 29% of nearly 1400 historical populations of these six species have been lost from the Pacific Northwest and California since Euro‐American contact. Across all species there was a highly significant difference in the proportion of population extinctions between coastal (0.14 extinct) and interior (0.55 extinct) regions. Sockeye salmon (which typically rely on lacustrine habitats for rearing) and stream‐maturing Chinook salmon (which stay in freshwater for many months prior to spawning) had significantly higher proportional population losses than other species and maturation types. Aggregate losses of major ecological, life‐history, and genetic biodiversity components across all species were estimated at 33%, 15%, and 27%, respectively. Collectively, we believe these population extirpations represent a loss of between 16% and 30% of all historical ESUs in the study area. On the other hand, over two‐thirds of historical Pacific salmon populations in this area persist, and considerable diversity remains at all scales. Because over one‐third of the remaining populations belong to threatened or endangered species listed under the U.S. Endangered Species Act, it is apparent that a critical juncture has been reached in efforts to preserve what remains of Pacific salmon diversity. It is also evident that persistence of existing, and evolution of future, diversity will depend on the ability of Pacific salmon to adapt to anthropogenically altered habitats.
Can Myoglobin Expression in Pancreatic Beta Cells Improve Insulin Secretion Under Hypoxia? An Exploratory Study With Transgenic Porcine Islets
Authors: Tilakaratne Himantha Kushanie , Yang Baoli , Hunter Stephen K. , Andracki Mark E. , Rodgers Victor G.J.
Published: May 2007

Abstract:  The feasibility of myoglobin (Mb)‐facilitated oxygen transport in improving porcine islet survival under hypoxia was investigated. Discrete groups of islets were transfected with replication‐defective adenoviral vector Ad5 respiratory syncitial virus (RSV) to induce expression of Mb or green fluorescent protein (GFP). Native islets served as the controls. In vitro studies at 37°C assessed islet insulin secretion efficacy: (i) to a glucose challenge from 30 to 300 mg/dL at fixed pO2; and (ii) at variable oxygen tensions ranging from 5 to 40 mm Hg over 12 h. The transfection was effective in initiating islet expression of Mb or GFP. Low Mb‐expression levels equivalent to 2% the Mb concentration in a muscle cell (0.25 ng of Mb per islet) were documented, with no statistical improvement in insulin secretion. A surprising side note is that insulin secretion was impaired in islets expressing GFP. Improved Mb expression is essential to determine the feasibility of enhancing islet survival under hypoxia.
The Role of Extended Time on the SAT® for Students with Learning Disabilities and/or Attention‐Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Lindstrom Jennifer Hartwig , Gregg Noël
Published: May 2007

Accommodation policymaking and practice should be guided by empirical research and informed clinical judgment. Findings from our study can provide information to test users about the validity of inferences that can be made from scores obtained from accommodated test administrations for students with disabilities. The factor structure of the newly revised Scholastic Aptitude Reasoning Test (SAT®, 2005) was examined across two groups of students (students without disabilities tested under standard time conditions, and students with disabilities tested with extended time) to determine whether the test measures the same construct for both groups. Invariance across the two groups was supported for all parameters of interest, suggesting that the scores on the Critical Reading, Math, and Writing sections of the SAT Reasoning Test can be interpreted in the same way when students have an extended‐time administration as opposed to the standard‐time administration.
Diagnostic Dilemma: Crusted Scabies Superimposed on Psoriatic Erythroderma in a Patient With Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome
Authors: Fuchs Brian S. , Sapadin Allen N. , Phelps Robert G. , Rudikoff Donald
Published: May 2007

A 45‐year‐old man with AIDS presented with extensive erythema and scaling involving the face, trunk, and upper and lower extremities, and mild nail dystrophy. The patient had been diagnosed with psoriasis 2 years previously, and at the time of presentation was using emollients and topical corticosteroid creams with little improvement. He was receiving zidovudine, lamivudine, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, acyclovir, rifabutin, and hydroxyzine. Pertinent laboratory data included CD4 lymphocytes (10 cells/mm3), viral load (32,000 copies per mL) white blood cell count (3.4 × 103/µL), hemoglobin (13.5 g/dL), and platelets (204 × 103/µL). Because of the extensive eruption and lack of response to topical agents, the patient was started on acitretin 25 mg daily. The patient had shown no signs of improvement 4 weeks later and was noted to have brownish gray crusted plaques involving the beard area, neck, upper part of the back, arms, trunk, genitals, and thighs in addition to his erythroderma (Figure 1 and Figure 2). Microscopic examination of scales from the upper part of the back revealed numerous scabies mites and eggs. He was then treated with lindane shampoo on the scalp and beard area and permethrin 5% cream to the body. The patient returned 2 weeks later with some improvement after thrice‐weekly applications of this regimen; however, scrapings from the trunk once again revealed live scabies mites. Microscopic examination of scales that had fallen on the examination table revealed multiple mites and eggs. The patient was then given permethrin 5% cream, which he applied 3 times a week for 2 weeks, and 1 dose of oral ivermectin, 200 µ/kg. This resulted in a marked decrease in crusting and scaling. With resolution of the scabies lesions, the patient displayed marked erythema and scaling of the trunk and extremities consistent with generalized psoriasis (Figure 3). Treatment with acitretin resulted in gradual resolution of the erythroderma. A few months later, the patient presented with nodules on the upper part of the back, which on biopsy revealed a scabies mite (Figure 4).

Hyperkeratotic crusting of the beard area.

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Brownish gray hyperkeratotic plaques and underlying erythroderma despite acitretin treatment.

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Residual psoriatic erythroderma following treatment of crusted scabies.

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Biopsy of nodule showing scabies mite.

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A Rose by Any Other Name
Authors: Engle Jodie , Desir Janice , Bernstein Jack M.
Published: May 2007

A 40‐year‐old man visited Haiti in the winter. His visit was uneventful, and he went swimming in the ocean. A week after his return he developed a small “pimple” on his right fifth finger. This condition progressed for several weeks, with new lesions developing over the extensor surface of his forearm and in the antecubital fossa. He had tender axillary adenopathy. The patient started a new job when he returned from Haiti, working 4 days per week in a greenhouse. He denied any fever, chills, or night sweats. He was in good health without any underlying chronic health problems. Physical examination revealed a small eschar over the distal phalanx of the patient's right fifth finger (Figure 1). There were 2 erythematous nodules over the extensor surface of his right forearm (Figure 2) as well as over the antecubital fossa (Figure 3). A punch biopsy was performed and results showed suppurative granulomatous dermatitis. Sporothrix schenckii was grown from the specimen.

Lesion, right fifth finger.

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Lesions, extensor surface of the right forearm.

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Lesions, antecubital fossa.

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Splenomegaly and Reticulocytosis Caused by Babesia microti Infections in Natural Populations of the Montane Vole, Microtus montanus
Authors: WATKINS RAYCHEL A. , MOSHIER SUZANNE E. , O'DELL WILLIAM D. , PINTER AELITA J.
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT. A survey for Babesia microti in rodents was conducted at six sites within Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming. Blood and spleen smears, hematocrits, and reticulocyte counts were made on all of the animals to evaluate parameters for the diagnosis of babesiosis. Ticks were removed for identification. Of 257 Microtus montanus, 103 were infected with B. microti. In addition, five of 12 Microtus pennsylvanicus and one of three Arvicola richardsoni were parasitized by B. microti. Peromyscus maniculatus (n = 40) were not infected. Concurrent infections by Hepatozoon sp., Trypanosoma sp., and the bacterium, Grahamella sp., were noted in blood smears from a number of M. montanus. Splenomegaly and reticulocytosis were significant parameters associated with babesiosis while decreased hematocrit was not. Ticks removed from the voles were identified as Ixodes eastoni and were the probable vectors of the B. microti.
Distribution of Macromolecular Methylations in Promastigotes of Leishmania donovani and Impact of Sinefungin
Authors: LAWRENCE FRANÇOISE , ROBERT‐GERO MALKA
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT. Sinefungin, an antifungal and antiparasitic nucleoside antibiotic, is a very potent antileishmanial agent both in vitro and in vivo. This molecule, structurally related to S‐adenosylmethionine, is a good competitive inhibitor of methyltransferases in vitro. The aim of this report is to analyze the impact of sinefungin on methylation pattern and the subcellular localisation of methyl groups and various methylases in promastigotes of Leishmania donovani. We have shown the presence of various methylated macromolecules in different subcellular fractions, with somewhat higher concentration in membrane fraction. In vitro, sinefungin inhibits the three main protein methylases, but in cells cultured in its presence the protein carboxylmethylations are specifically inhibited.
The Current Status of the Free‐Living Heterotrophic Flagellates
Authors: PATTERSON DAVID J.
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT. The “flagellates” as a taxon has become obsolete and should be dispensed with. It is obsolete because it is not phylo‐genetically coherent. Adopting an ultrastructural perspective, it is argued that the flagellates exemplify an extreme case of paraphyly. Meaningful discussion of the evolution or ecology of flagellates can only emerge after we identify the monophyletic constituents of the flagellates. There are over 40 known types of heterotrophic flagellates and these should form the basis of a new understanding of flagellate diversity.
A Morphometric Study of Euryhalinity in Marine Populations of the Ciliate Genus Euplotes
Authors: JONES THOMAS C. , GATES MICHAEL A.
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT. Twenty different clonal strains of marine and brackish Euplotes, representing four morphotypes, were tested for hyposalinity tolerance by a method which gradually acclimated the cells to lower salinity medium. The lowest salinities in which the strains could thrive ranged from 60% of normal seawater to complete freshwater. The morphological effects of culture medium salinity were also examined for two strains of a small “Euplotes charon” morphotype, as well as for two mating compatible “Euplotes vannus” strains and several of their exconjugates. There were no differences between the euryhaline strains grown in fresh or saltwater, except for a slight increase in overall cell size in one strain when cultured in freshwater medium. E. vannus strains increased in overall cell size with decreased salinity; also, the dorsal surface of the cells can become disorganized when the cells are cultured in 30% normal seawater.
Identification of Precystic Stages and Encystment Kinetics Analysis of Colpoda inflata by Using an Immunofluorescent Method
Authors: BENITEZ LAURA , MARTIN‐GONZALEZ ANA , GUTIERREZ JUAN C.
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT. The application of an immunocytochemical method to identify precystic stages and to analyse the encystment kinetics, by using a polyclonal antiserum against isolated cyst walls from the ciliate Colpoda inflata, is reported for the first time. Three different precystic phases were chosen on the basis of morphological changes and degree of cyst wall formation. By using this procedure a better identification of mature resting cysts with regard to precystic cells or young cysts is provided. An average consensus encystment kinetics of C. inflata, by using an accumulated class frequency analysis, is reported.
Chemosensory Behaviour of Strombidium purpureum, an Anaerobic Oligotrich with Endosymbiotic Purple Non‐Sulphur Bacteria
Authors: BERNARD CATHERINE , FENCHEL TOM
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT. Strombidium purpureum Kahl, is an anaerobic oligotrichous ciliate with endosymbiotic phototrophic bacteria. Like other anaerobic ciliates, S. purpureum reacts to O2‐pressure. In the light, the ciliates avoid even traces of O2 (< 1% atmospheric saturation). In the dark, however, the ciliates accumulate in water with a pO2 of 1–4% atmospheric saturation. Experiments show that ciliates which have accumulated in the dark under microaerophilic conditions react when the light is turned on, and their ability to escape is enhanced by steep O2‐gradients. The ciliates orient themselves in O2‐gradients by a series of phobic responses. They tumble whenever they swim towards a higher O2‐tension and thus they eventually all swim in the direction of lower pO2. The ecological implications of such behaviour are discussed.
Changes in Membrane Fatty Acid Composition and Δ12‐Desaturase Activity during Growth of Acanthamoeba castellanii in Batch Culture
Authors: AVERY SIMON V. , LLOYD DAVID , HARWOOD JOHN L.
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT. Growth of Acanthamoeba castellanii in batch culture at 30° C was associated with marked changes in cellular fatty acid composition. The largest change occurred in the linoleate to oleate ratio, which was maximal in early‐ to mid‐exponential phase cultures but decreased approximately 10‐fold as cells approached stationary phase. The higher degree of lipid unsaturation in young cultures was accentuated by a greater proportion of 20‐carbon polyunsaturated fatty acids than in stationary phase cultures. The unsaturation index (average number of double bonds per fatty acid) was maximal in mid‐exponential phase cultures after 24 hours growth. Incorporation of [1‐14C]acetate into polyunsaturated fatty acids in short‐term (2 hour) experiments was high in 12 and 24 hour old cultures, where linoleate and eicosadienoate accounted for up to 26% of total labelled fatty acids. Incorporation of [1‐14CJacetate into these fatty acids was negligible in stationary phase cultures. These results were correlated with changes in the specific activity of the Δ12‐desaturase. Δ12‐Desaturase activity was greatest in microsomal membranes isolated from early‐ to mid‐exponential phase cells, but declined by approximately 50% as cultures progressed towards stationary phase. Membrane fractionation studies revealed that although some differences in fatty acid composition between plasma‐membrane, mitochondrial (enriched), and microsomal membrane fractions were evident, the large changes in lipid unsaturation in whole cells of A. castellanii could not be accounted for by differential development of particular subcellular membranes.
Fabrication of Gas Electrodes by Wet Powder Spraying of Binder‐Free Particle Suspensions Using a Pulse Injection Process
Authors: Oishi Naoki , Yoo Yeong , Davidson Isobel
Published: May 2007

A process for wet powder spraying of binder‐free particle suspensions using pulse injection was devised for the fabrication of gas electrodes. The resulting deposited electrodes were found to have fine and uniformly distributed pores, to have good adhesion, and low interfacial resistance on electrolyte substrates. The uniformity of the layers was improved by decreasing the spray pulse to 0.05 s with a 1‐s off period. Even without drying or any pre‐treatments before firing, there was no cracking or delamination of the deposited layer. The deposited layer remained porous, crack‐free, and well bound to the substrate after firing.
Diode‐Pumped Passively Q‐Switched Nd:YAG Ceramic Laser with a Cr4+:YAG Crystal‐Satiable Absorber
Authors: Wu Yusong , Li Jiang , Pan Yubai , Liu Qian , Guo Jingkun , Jiang Benxue , Xu Jun
Published: May 2007

Transparent polycrystalline Nd:YAG ceramics were fabricated by solid‐state reactive sintering a mixture of commercial Al2O3,Y2O3, and Nd2O3 powders. The powders were mixed in ethanol and doped with 0.5 wt% tetraethoxysilane, dried, and pressed. Pressed samples were sintered at 1750°C in vacuum. Transparent fully dense samples with average grain sizes of 10 μm were obtained. The 1 at.% Nd:YAG ceramic was used to research passively Q‐switched laser output with a Cr4+:YAG crystal as a saturable absorber. An average output power of 94 mW with a pulse width of 50 ns was obtained when the incident pump power was 750 mW. The slope efficiency was 13%. The pulse energy is 5 μJ, and the peak power is about 100 W.
Electrospinning of PVA‐Calcium Phosphate Sol Precursors for the Production of Fibrous Hydroxyapatite
Authors: Dai Xiaoshu , Shivkumar Satya
Published: May 2007

A precursor solution containing poly(vinyl alcohol) and a calcium phosphate sol is used to produce fibers of hydroxyapatite. The mixture is electrospun at a voltage of 20 kV and the resultant structure is calcined at 600°C for 6 h. Experiments were conducted for polymer molecular weight (MW) between 9500 and 155 000 g/mol and sol volume fractions (VS) between 0% and 83%. The results indicate that the electrospun fiber diameter can be correlated to the solution viscosity. The polymer molecular weight and sol volume fraction have a significant effect on the ceramic structure. Highly interconnected solid or porous hydroxyapatite fibers with diameters between 200 and 500 nm and crystal sizes between 30 and 50 nm can be produced by controlling MW and VS.
Ferroelectric and Ferromagnetic Properties of Hot‐Pressed Bi0.95−xLa0.05TbxFeO3 Ceramics
Authors: Jiang Qinghui , Lin Yuanhua , Nan Ce‐Wen , Shen Zhijian
Published: May 2007

Multiferroic Bi0.95−xLa0.05TbxFeO3 (BLTFO) ceramics were prepared by hot‐pressing. It was found that their dielectric properties were very sensitive to sintering temperature. The samples hot‐pressed at 740°C show stable dielectric constant and rather low loss (∼1%) in the frequency range up to 1 MHz. When the nominal content of Tb is <0.08, the atomic arrangement keeps the R3c symmetry, while a phase transition appears at x≈0.08–0.10. The introduction of Tb enhances the coercive field of the BLTFO ceramics and then restrains the ferroelectricity gradually. The doping of Tb at x≤0.10 increases the ferromagnetization.
Elucidation of the Formation Mechanism of β‐SiAlON from a Zeolite
Authors: Li Feng Jin , Wakihara Toru , Tatami Junichi , Komeya Katsutoshi , Meguro Takeshi , Mackenzie Kenneth J.D.
Published: May 2007

β‐SiAlON was synthesized from Y‐type zeolite and its formation mechanism was determined using magic‐angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and powder X‐ray diffraction (XRD). Y‐type zeolite and carbon powders were mixed for 36 h, fired at 1050° to 1450°C for 0–2 h in flowing gas (0.5 L/min N2), then heat treated at 700°C for 2 h in air to remove residual carbon. The resulting product was, according to XRD analysis, mono‐phase β‐SiAlON; but minor amounts of unreacted SiO2 and SiC (possibly amorphous) were detected in the NMR spectra. It was found that β‐SiAlONs with higher and lower Z values are formed by different reaction pathways.
Reproductive seasonality in a swamp‐locked African cichlid
Authors: Reardon E. E. , Chapman L. J.
Published: May 2007

Abstract –  This study quantified the seasonal pattern of reproduction in a swamp‐dwelling population of the African cichlid Pseudocrenilabrus multicolor victoriae. In the hypoxic waters of the Lwamunda Swamp, Uganda, P. multicolor was reproductively active throughout the year, even during the peak of the dry seasons. However, the degree of activity was seasonal, with rainfall providing a predictor of the percentage of ripe, mature females. There was no correlation between aquatic oxygen availability dissolved oxygen (DO) and either adjusted mean gonad mass or percentage of mature females, suggesting that DO is not limiting reproductive activity in this system. Reproductively mature females were larger during drier periods and may maximise their lifetime reproductive success by producing young throughout the year; but with a lower brooding efficiency. A comparison with Welcomme’s (1969) study of a river‐swamp system feeding Lake Victoria suggests that reproductive patterning is variable among populations of P. multicolor and may reflect adaptive response to chronically hypoxic conditions in the Lwamunda Swamp.
Fetal jaw movement affects development of articular disk in the temporomandibular joint
Authors: Habib Hasina , Hatta Toshihisa , Rahman Omar Ibna Faizur , Yoshimura Yasuro , Otani Hiroki
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT  Previous studies suggest that jaw movement is an important factor in the development of cartilage in the temporomandibular joint during the prenatal and postnatal periods. In the present study, the effects of fetal jaw movement on the articular disk were studied in mice by restraining the opening movement of the mouth using the mouse exo utero development system. At embryonic day 18.5, the articular disk was reduced in size in the embryos whose maxilla and mandible were sutured (sutured group) and there were changes in the cellular morphology of the mesenchymal cells in the disk. The volume of the articular disk, the total number of cells and the number of 5‐bromo‐2′‐deoxyuridine‐positive cells in the articular disk were significantly lower in the sutured group than in the non‐sutured control group. Our data revealed that fetal jaw movement affects the development of the articular disk in the temporomandibular joint.
Patterns of chromosomal deletions identified by a birth defects registry, Hawaii, 1986–2003
Authors: Forrester Mathias B. , Merz Ruth D.
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT  The aim of the investigation was to describe the chromosomal deletions identified by a birth defects registry with respect to the chromosomes involved, pregnancy outcome, method of diagnosis, inheritance, sex, and the diagnosis of major structural birth defects. Cases were derived from a population‐based birth defects registry in Hawaii and comprised all infants and fetuses with chromosomal deletions delivered during 1986–2003. A total of 71 cases were identified through a statewide birth defects registry in Hawaii during 1986–2003. The chromosomes involved in the greatest proportion of deletions were chromosomes 22 (14.1%), 4 (11.3%), and 5 (11.3%). Live births accounted for 58 (81.7%) of the cases. Diagnosis was made by amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling in 19 (26.8%) of the cases. Of the 18 cases with known inheritance, the deletion was inherited in 5 (27.8%) and de novo in 13 (72.2%). Males accounted for 28 (39.4%) and females for 43 (60.6%) of the cases. Major structural birth defects were identified in 51 (71.8%) of the cases. Chromosomal deletions do not appear to affect all chromosomes equally. Most of the chromosomal deletions that were detected occurred among live births and were de novo conditions. Infants and fetuses with chromosomal deletions are more likely to be females and to be associated with major structural birth defects.
Caveolin‐1 influences P2X7 receptor expression and localization in mouse lung alveolar epithelial cells
Authors: Barth K. , Weinhold K. , Guenther A. , Young M. T. , Schnittler H. , Kasper M.
Published: May 2007

The P2X7 receptor has recently been described as a marker for lung alveolar epithelial type I cells. Here, we demonstrate both the expression of P2X7 protein and its partition into lipid rafts in the mouse lung alveolar epithelial cell line E10. A significant degree of colocalization was observed between P2X7 and the raft marker protein Caveolin‐1; also, P2X7 protein was associated with caveolae. A marked reduction in P2X7 immunoreactivity was observed in lung sections prepared from Caveolin‐1‐knockout mice, indicating that Caveolin‐1 expression was required for full expression of P2X7 protein. Indeed, suppression of Caveolin‐1 protein expression in E10 cells using short hairpin RNAs resulted in a large reduction in P2X7 protein expression. Our data demonstrate a potential interaction between P2X7 protein and Caveolin‐1 in lipid rafts, and provide a basis for further functional and biochemical studies to probe the physiologic significance of this interaction.
Effects of Nutrient Limitation on Pigments in Thalassiosira weissflogii and Prorocentrum donghaiense
Authors: Hou Jian‐Jun , Huang Bang‐Qin , Cao Zhen‐Rui , Chen Ji‐Xin , Hong Hua‐Sheng
Published: May 2007

The response of Prorocentrum donghaiense and Thalassiosira weissflogii pigments under nitrate (N) and phosphate (P) limitation were studied using HPLC and in vivo fluorescence protocols in batch cultures. For P. donghaiense, the pigment ratio was kept stable under different nutrient conditions from the results of HPLC. For T. weissflogii, there was a lower ratio of chlorophyllide to Chl a during the exponential phase, but the reverse during the stationary phase. Different members of the phytoplankton had different pigments response mechanisms under nutrient limitation. From the results of in vivo fluorescence, the ratio of peridinin to Chl a for P. donghaiense increased in nutrient‐free culture, while it was kept stable for nutrient‐limited cultures during the exponential phase. For T. weissflogii, the ratio of fucoxanthin to Chl a for each culture increased during the exponential phase, but the ratio under N limitation was apparently lower than that for P limitation during the stationary phase. The results indicate that both pigment ratios from HPLC and in vivo fluorescence of T. weissflogii were changed greatly under different nutrient conditions, which suggests that both ratios could be used as indicators of algal physiological status in different nutrient conditions.

(Handling editor: Jin‐Zhong Cui)
High‐density Linkage Map of Cultivated Allotetraploid Cotton Based on SSR, TRAP, SRAP and AFLP Markers
Authors: Yu Jiwen , Yu Shuxun , Lu Cairui , Wang Wu , Fan Shuli , Song Meizhen , Lin Zhongxu , Zhang Xianlong , Zhang Jinfa
Published: May 2007

A high‐density linkage map was constructed for an F2 population derived from an interspecific cross of cultivated allotetraploid species between Gossypium hirsutum L. and G. barbadense L. A total of 186 F2 individuals from the interspecific cross of “CRI 36 × Hai 7124” were genotyped at 1 252 polymorphic loci including a novel marker system, target region amplification polymorphism (TRAP). The map consists of 1 097 markers, including 697 simple sequence repeats (SSRs), 171 TRAPs, 129 sequence‐related amplified polymorphisms, 98 amplified fragment length polymorphisms, and two morphological markers, and spanned 4 536.7 cM with an average genetic distance of 4.1 cM per marker. Using 45 duplicated SSR loci among chromosomes, 11 of the 13 pairs of homologous chromosomes were identified in tetraploid cotton. This map will provide an essential resource for high resolution mapping of quantitative trait loci and molecular breeding in cotton.

(Handling editor: Yong‐Biao Xue)
The 6‐phosphogluconate Dehydrogenase Genes Are Responsive to Abiotic Stresses in Rice
Authors: Hou Fu‐Yun , Huang Ji , Yu Shan‐Lin , Zhang Hong‐Sheng
Published: May 2007

Glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH, E.C. 1.1.1.49) and 6‐phosphogluconate dehydrogenase (6PGDH, EC 1.1.1.44) are both key enzymes of the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP). The OsG6PDH1 and Os6PGDH1 genes encoding cytosolic G6PDH and cytosolic 6PGDH were isolated from rice (Oryza sativa L.). We have shown that Os6PGDH1 gene was up‐regulated by salt stress. Here we reported the isolation and characterization of Os6PGDH2 from rice, which encode the plastidic counterpart of 6PGDH. Genomic organization analysis indicated that OsG6PDH1 and OsG6PDH2 genes contain multiple introns, whereas two Os6PGDH1 and Os6PGDH2 genes have no introns in their translated regions. In a step towards understanding the functions of the pentose phosphate pathway in plants in response to various abiotic stresses, the expressions of four genes in the rice seedlings treated by drought, cold, high salinity and abscisic acid (ABA) were investigated. The results show that OsG6PDH1 and OsG6PDH2 are not markedly regulated by the abiotic stresses detected. However, the transcript levels of both Os6PGDH1 and Os6PGDH2 are up‐regulated in rice seedlings under drought, cold, high salinity and ABA treatments. Meanwhile, the enzyme activities of G6PDH and 6PGDH in the rice seedlings treated by various abiotic stresses were investigated. Like the mRNA expression patterns, G6PDH activity remains constant but the 6PGDH increases steadily during the treatments. Taken together, we suggest that the pentose phosphate pathway may play an important role in rice responses to abiotic stresses and the second key enzyme of PPP, 6PGDH, may function as a regulator controlling the efficiency of the pathway under abiotic stresses.

(Handling editor: Kang Chong)
Alterations of RNA Editing for the Mitochondrial ATP9 Gene in a New orf220‐type Cytoplasmic Male‐sterile Line of Stem Mustard (Brassica juncea var. tumida)
Authors: Yang Jing‐Hua , Zhang Ming‐Fang , Yu Jing‐Quan
Published: May 2007

RNA editing for the mitochondrial ATP9 gene of encoding regions has been observed in both cytoplasmic male‐sterile and maintainer lines of stem mustard, where its editing capacity varied spatially and temporally in the cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) line. There were four RNA editing sites for the mitochondrial ATP9 gene according to its normal editing sites in mustard, of which three sites occurred as C‐to‐U changes and one as a U‐to‐C change. As a result, the hydrophobicity of deduced ATP9 protein was reduced due to the conversions at its 17th, 45th and 64th positions. Meanwhile, the conservation of deduced ATP9 protein was enhanced by changes at the 56th position. Loss of a specific editing site for ATP9 was observed in juvenile roots, senile roots, senile leaves and floret buds of the CMS line. Comparatively, complete RNA editing for ATP9 gene was retained in juvenile roots, juvenile leaves and floret buds of its maintainer line; however, the loss of a specific editing site for ATP9 gene occurred at senile roots and senile leaves in its maintainer line. These observations allow us to produce a hypothesis that the dysfunction of a specific mitochondrial gene arising from RNA editing could probably be a factor triggering CMS and organ senescence through unknown cross‐talk pathways during development.

(Handling editor: Tai Wang)
Phenological Complementarity Does not Enhance Ecosystem Production in Undisturbed Steppe Community
Authors: Zhao Liang , Yang Gui‐Xia , Liu Zhong‐Ling , Xin Xiao‐Ping , Luo Yan‐Jiang , Wang Gang
Published: May 2007

Communities with more species could have a greater variety of species’characteristics, leading to more effective use of limiting resources through niche partitioning (complementarity) and therefore greater production. The effect of phenological complementarity (PC) on ecosystem production has not been fully investigated. The seasonal responses of all vascular plant species were tracked to test the effect of phenological complementarity on ecosystem production within a natural stable steppe community. Although a significant phenological pattern was observed, PC had no significant correlation with community production. The value of PC varied with years, but was observed only in a relatively narrow range during the experimental period. Species diversity (richness and evenness) had no correlation with the ecosystem production. The results suggest that the effect of PC may be saturated and has no contribution to the improvement of ecosystem production in a stable natural grassland community with abundant species.

(Handling editor: Ming Dong)
PREFERENCES FOR SOUTHWESTERN SALTED SNACK FLAVORS: INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES AT THE CONCEPTUAL LEVEL AND THE CONSTRUCTION OF A PRODUCT LINE
Authors: MOSKOWITZ HOWARD
Published: May 2007

Individuals differ in what they like, both from a sensory basis, but also from a conceptual basis. For a product to be purchased, the concept (or even the flavor name) must be acceptable just as the physical product itself must be acceptable. This paper presents the results of a study in which the panelists rated degree of interest in 12 different new flavors for a snack chip positioned at the start of the study to have a “taste of the southwest.” The results show the substantial variation in acceptance for the different flavors presented as names only (viz., concepts, rather than actual products). Segmentation by attitude of consumers on the basis of the pattern of liking revealed differences among consumers, but did not show the typical opposing patterns found when sensory segmentation is done using actual products having different flavors. These individual differences require that a line of different flavors be developed. There is no simple organizing principle, however, underlying the individual differences. Thus to create the line of flavors requires a different approach. The approach selects various combinations of flavors, identifies the proportion of consumers who would accept at least one flavor of the line (so‐called “satisfied consumer”), and then maximizes the number of such “satisfied consumers” for a line comprising a given number of flavors.
MODELING DIFFERENCES BETWEEN PANELISTS IN USE OF MEASUREMENT SCALES
Authors: WILKINSON CLARE , YUKSEL DOGAN
Published: May 2007

In sensory data sets, an important source of differences between panelists is in their use of the measurement scale. These differences can be summarized in differences in location, the overall level, and differences in dispersion, the range of the scale used. This paper discusses a method of correcting for these differences by jointly modeling location and dispersion using a see‐saw algorithm. This approach is also applicable when scores are not normally distributed and when there is a (nonlinear) relationship between the dispersion and the location. The approach is illustrated with an example for flavor data of freeze‐dried and hot‐air dried peppers.
ELIMINATING ARTIFACTS IN THE STUDY OF SINGULARITY/MIXEDNESS OF TASTE STIMULI
Authors: ROCHMAN DANA , GUINARD JEAN‐XAVIER , O'MAHONY MICHAEL
Published: May 2007

Taste stimuli with a single solute were not judged as tasting equally singular; this confirmed earlier results, except in this study the possibility of the results being caused by trigeminal effects was virtually eliminated. Binary mixtures were generally perceived as more mixed than single solute stimuli, indicating a degree of analytic mixing. However, a caffeine/KCl mixture was perceived as more singular tasting than some single solute stimuli, indicating a degree of synthetic mixing. A preliminary examination was made of the hypotheses that the perceived mixedness of a taste mixture might be determined by a summation of the mixedness of its components or alternatively by latency effects.
UNIVERSAL, PRODUCT AND ATTRIBUTE SPECIFIC SCALING AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF COMMON LEXICONS IN DESCRIPTIVE ANALYSIS
Authors: MUÑOZ ALEJANDRA M. , CIVILLE GAIL VANCE
Published: May 2007

A descriptive training program involves the development of standardized practices or a common frame of reference. This paper reviews concepts and procedures on developing a qualitative frame of reference (i.e., the development of a common lexicon, language), and discusses the different alternatives for quantitative frames of reference. Different quantitative frames of reference can be established depending on the philosophy chosen to rate attribute intensities. The three philosophies presented in this manuscript are the universal, product specific and attribute specific scaling approaches. The advantages, disadvantages and uses of each of these techniques are discussed. A well trained panel has sound common qualitative and quantitative frames of reference used in product evaluations. A low panel variability is obtained when both frames of reference are successfully implemented and used.