bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Managing the manganese: molecular mechanisms of manganese transport and homeostasis
Authors: Pittman Jon K. 
Published: August 2005

SummaryManganese (Mn) is an essential metal nutrient for plants. Recently, some of the genes responsible for transition metal transport in plants have been identified; however, only relatively recently have Mn2+ transport pathways begun to be identified at the molecular level. These include transporters responsible for Mn accumulation into the cell and release from various organelles, and for active sequestration into endomembrane compartments, particularly the vacuole and the endoplasmic reticulum. Several transporter gene families have been implicated in Mn2+ transport, including cation/H+ antiporters, natural resistance‐associated macrophage protein (Nramp) transporters, zinc‐regulated transporter/iron‐regulated transporter (ZRT/IRT1)‐related protein (ZIP) transporters, the cation diffusion facilitator (CDF) transporter family, and P‐type ATPases. The identification of mutants with altered Mn phenotypes can allow the identification of novel components in Mn homeostasis. In addition, the characterization of Mn hyperaccumulator plants can increase our understanding of how plants can adapt to excess Mn, and ultimately allow the identification of genes that confer this stress tolerance. The identification of genes responsible for Mn2+ transport has substantially improved our understanding of plant Mn homeostasis.
Evolution of leaf developmental mechanisms
Authors: Piazza Paolo , Jasinski Sophie , Tsiantis Miltos 
Published: August 2005

SummaryLeaves are determinate organs produced by the shoot apical meristem. Land plants demonstrate a large range of variation in leaf form. Here we discuss evolution of leaf form in the context of our current understanding of leaf development, as this has emerged from molecular genetic studies in model organisms. We also discuss specific examples where parallel studies of development in different species have helped understanding how diversification of leaf form may occur in nature.

Contents

Summary
693

I.
Introduction
693

II.
Genetics of shoot development in simple‐leafed model organisms
696

III.
Dissected leaves
703

IV.
Conclusions and future directions
705

Acknowledgements
706

References
706
Genes and salt tolerance: bringing them together
Authors: Munns Rana 
Published: August 2005

SummarySalinity tolerance comes from genes that limit the rate of salt uptake from the soil and the transport of salt throughout the plant, adjust the ionic and osmotic balance of cells in roots and shoots, and regulate leaf development and the onset of senescence. This review lists some candidate genes for salinity tolerance, and draws together hypotheses about the functions of these genes and the specific tissues in which they might operate. Little has been revealed by gene expression studies so far, perhaps because the studies are not tissue‐specific, and because the treatments are often traumatic and unnatural. Suggestions are made to increase the value of molecular studies in identifying genes that are important for salinity tolerance.ContentsSummary645I.Introduction645II.Physiological mechanisms of salt tolerance646III.Candidate genes for salt tolerance and results of transformation experiments650IV.Gene activity expected in roots, leaves and growing tissues of plants exposed to salinity, and results of gene expression studies655V.Conclusions660Acknowledgements660References660
An enhancement to the Maddox Wing test for the reliable measurement of horizontal heterophoria
Authors: Pointer Jonathan S. 
Published: August 2005

AbstractPurpose:  To attempt to improve the reliability of the Maddox Wing (MW) test for the measurement of horizontal heterophoria at near.Methods:  Horizontal heterophoria measurements at 30 cm using the MW instrument were made on a group of 58 normally‐sighted binocular young adult subjects. The procedures were repeated at each of five weekly visits. The standard tangent scale card provided by the instrument's manufacturer was used as the control condition vs four alternative cards designed to enhance accommodative stimulation and improve operational reliability.Results:  A statistically‐similar mean near phoria value was recorded using each of the five cards. However one of the alternative card designs produced a small but statistically significantly less variable result than the others: this design featured a much smaller typeface (4pt) than that used for the digits on the standard card, and the horizontal row of numbers was flanked by two periods of a low spatial frequency (< 2 c deg−1) square wave grating.Conclusions:  It is suggested that for improved reliability of near phoria measurement when using the MW instrument a more appropriately detailed design of tangent card would promote enhanced accommodation, an operational consideration likely to be especially relevant when examining children.
Evaluation of the pressure phosphene tonometer as a self‐tonometer
Authors: Naruse Shigeta , Mori Kazuhiko , Kinoshita Shigeru 
Published: August 2005

AbstractPurpose:  Different from conventional tonometers, the pressure phosphene tonometer (FPT) measures intraocular pressure (IOP) through the upper eyelid without corneal applanation. We evaluated the usefulness of the FPT as a self‐tonometer by comparing FPT IOP readings with those obtained with the Goldmann applanation tonometer (GAT). We also evaluated the influence of central corneal thickness (CCT) on IOP measurements obtained with the two different devices.Methods:  We confirmed the repeatability of FPT measurements in a preliminary study. The main investigation formed part of a prospective clinical trial, in which IOP was measured in 101 eyes of 101 participants (55 normal and 46 glaucomatous eyes) using GAT and FPT. FPT measurements were self‐acquired by each participant. CCT was measured with an ultrasonic pachymeter. The agreement between FPT and GAT measurements was evaluated by the method of Bland and Altman. Using individual IOP and CCT values, we determined the correlation coefficients and performed regression analysis.Results:  FPT met the British Standard criteria for reproducibility. Among 101 participants, seven patients with glaucoma were unable to detect the pressure phosphene and to measure IOP using the FPT. By the statistical method of Bland and Altman there was a significant difference between FPT readings self‐measured by the remaining 94 participants and GAT readings obtained by an ophthalmologist. There was no correlation between FPT and CCT readings in 65 participants with no prior history of anti‐glaucoma medications or glaucoma surgery.Conclusions:  Self‐tonometer FPT readings differed from GAT readings. However, we suggest that the FPT may be a clinically acceptable device because it enables patients to self‐measure their IOP easily and safely. As FPT readings are not affected by CCT, this tonometer may be of clinical and practical value for the at‐will measurement of IOP in patients with corneal changes.
Pannus and enthesitis in the atlanto‐axial region in ankylosing spondylitis
Authors: SINGH Sunilkumar , BALAKRISHNAN Canchi , MAHESHWARI Shailendra 
Published: August 2005

AbstractA 30‐year‐old man with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) of 7 years duration consulted us for intractable neck pain of 2 months duration. Magnetic resonance imaging cervical spine showed inflammatory pannus around the dens and computed tomography scan showed fluffy periostitis at the attachment of the alar ligament. Cervical spine involvement in AS is reviewed.
Information Therapy: the strategic role of prescribed information in disease self‐management
Authors: METTLER Molly , KEMPER Donald W. 
Published: August 2005

AbstractInformation Therapy is a new disease management tool that provides cost‐effective patient support to a much larger portion of the chronically ill population than is generally reached. Defined as the prescription of specific, evidence‐based medical information to a specific patient, caregiver, or consumer at just the right time to help them make a specific health decision or take a self‐management action, Information Therapy can be electronically integrated into the process of care. Information prescriptions made available through Information Therapy will support efforts to improve health outcomes and quality in disease management.
Recurrent erythema nodosum: a diagnostic dilemma
Authors: AINON M. M. , WAHINUDDIN S. , MUHAINI O. , NORRAHA A. R. 
Published: August 2005

AbstractErythema nodosum is the most frequent clinico‐pathological variant of the panniculitides. We describe a case of a young lady who suffered from recurrent attacks of erythema nodosum over the anterior side of the lower extremities which was confirmed by histopathological finding. She was treated with corticosteroid and immuno‐suppressive agents without much improvement. She responded well to oral colchicine.
A survey of the musculoskeletal curricula of medical schools in the Asia‐Pacific region
Authors: MCCOLL Geoffrey 
Published: August 2005

AbstractAim:  The aim of this survey was to define the characteristics of undergraduate musculoskeletal teaching in medical schools of the Asia‐Pacific region.Methods:  A questionnaire was developed by an expert group to define the characteristics of musculoskeletal teaching in respondent medical schools. The questionnaire collected basic data about the characteristics of the respondent medical schools and defined the number of hours and teaching modality used to deliver the teaching of rheumatology, orthopedics, metabolic bone disease and pain management. In addition, the respondents were asked whether their curriculum covered subjects from a list of ‘key topics’ in musculoskeletal medicine.Results:  Of the 130 medical schools who received the questionnaire, responses were received from 44. Results showed that approximately 35 contact hours were devoted to the teaching of rheumatology, 63 hours to orthopedics, 10 hours to metabolic bone disease and 11 hours to pain management during the medical course. The total number of hours of musculoskeletal teaching represented approximately 2% of the total student contact hours. Furthermore, the majority of key musculoskeletal topics were covered in the respondent medical schools.Conclusions:  The proportion of teaching time devoted to musculoskeletal conditions in the Asia‐Pacific region was not substantially different from that of medical schools elsewhere in the world. A substantial deficit of training in pain management and metabolic bone disease was identified, and should be addressed in future curriculum reform.
Clinical manifestations of chondromalacia patella in 260 Iranian patients
Authors: SALEHI I. , JAMALI R. , KHAZAELI SH. , DAVATCHI F. , JAMSHIDI A. , AKBARIAN M. , GHARIBDOST F. 
Published: August 2005

AbstractBackground and aim:  Chondromalacia patella, which is characterized by softening of the patellar cartilage, is the most common cause of anterior knee pain in young women. The aim of this study was to identify the clinical features of patients with chondromalacia patella in Iran.Methods:  All patients under 40 years, complaining of mechanical knee pain who were referred to Amir A’lam Rheumatology Unit, with positive shrug sign and normal knee X‐rays during the period September 2000 to September 2002, were included in this study. After physical examination and knee radiography, patients with knee arthritis, knee osteoarthritis and knee periarthritis were excluded. Patients with the clinical diagnosis of chondromalacia patella were studied. The demographic data, clinical disease characteristics and disease course were recorded.Results:  There were 260 patients. They were predominantly female (F : M, 2.6 : 1), in the third decade of life and a mean age of 22.8 years at the onset of disease. Bilateral involvement was found in 92% of patients. The first manifestation was knee pain. The history of trauma or swelling of the knee occurred in about 20% of cases. The history of dislocation was 3%. Sitting with flexed knees, stairs, and the use of Turkish WCs aggravated the knee pain. About one‐third had knee malalignment, mostly mild genu varus. Patella alta was seen in 1.6%. Q‐angle more than 15° was seen in 90.8%. Mean Q‐angle was 21.9°, mean patellar angle was 122.6°, and mean intercondylar angle was 141.5°. All patients had the shrug sign. About 90% had Rabot test and crepitation, 3.5% had knee effusion, and 1% had knee laxity. Lower limb discrepancy was seen in 6.2% and spinal deformity in 10%. Ninety‐three percent of the patients were treated by conservative (medical) therapy.Conclusion:  So the classic case of chondromalacia patella is a woman in her third decade of life with mechanical knee pain and positive shrug test.
Cash cropping and food crop productivity: synergies or trade‐offs?
Authors: Govereh Jones , Jayne T.S. 
Published: August 2005

AbstractThe case for promoting export‐oriented cash crops in Africa has generally been based on their direct potential contribution to agricultural productivity and small farmer incomes. A relatively neglected avenue of research concerns the synergistic effects that cash cropping can have on other household activities, including food production. The conventional view that cash crops compete with food crops for land and labour neglects the potential for cash crop schemes to make available inputs on credit, management training, and other resources that can contribute to food crop productivity, which might otherwise not be accessible to farmers if they did not participate in cash crop programs. This article builds on previous research by hypothesising key pathways by which cash crops may affect food crop activities and empirically measuring these effects using the case of cotton in Gokwe North District in Zimbabwe. Analysis is based on instrumental variable analysis of survey data on 430 rural households in 1996. Results indicate that—after controlling for household assets, education and locational differences—households engaging intensively in cotton production obtain higher grain yields than non‐cotton and marginal cotton producers. We also find evidence of regional spill‐over effects whereby commercialisation schemes induce second round investments in a particular area that provide benefits to all farmers in that region, regardless of whether they engage in that commercialisation scheme. The study suggests that the potential spill‐over benefits for food crops through participation in cash crop programs are important to consider in the development of strategies designed to intensify African food crop production.
Advertising and food, drink and tobacco consumption in the United Kingdom: a dynamic demand system
Authors: Duffy Martyn 
Published: August 2005

AbstractThis paper tests for the influence of advertising on the inter‐product distribution of consumer demand for non‐durable goods and services in the UK, 1963–1996. The long‐run demand for seven categories of non‐durable products is modelled through an advertising‐augmented version of the almost ideal demand system (AIDS), which is incorporated into an error‐correction model to allow for short‐run dynamic adjustments to long‐run equilibrium positions. Model estimates confirm that the restrictions of price homogeneity and symmetry appear to be consistent with the data, yield measures of the various types of demand elasticity that are in general plausible, confirm the strong influence of prices on the allocation of consumer expenditure, but find little evidence to support the hypothesis that advertising has the power to effect marked changes in the inter‐product pattern of consumer demand in the UK.
Adoption of agricultural innovations as a two‐stage partial observability process
Authors: Dimara Efthalia , Skuras Dimitris 
Published: August 2005

AbstractIn this paper, we reconsider the appropriateness of certain statistical analyses in innovation adoption studies and suggest that partial observability models may sometimes be more useful. The proposed models allow for a flexible specification of the process of adoption from one stage to two stages, facilitate the modelling of non‐adopters and remedy the violation of the assumption of full information. An application to the adoption of organic cultivation in Greece demonstrates the relative merits of the proposed analysis.
The impact of farm credit in Pakistan
Authors: Khandker Shahidur R. , Faruqee Rashid R. 
Published: August 2005

AbstractBoth informal and formal loans matter in agriculture. However, formal lenders provide many more production loans than informal lenders, often at a cost (mostly loan default cost) higher than what they can recover. For example, the Agricultural Development Bank of Pakistan (ADBP), providing about 90% of formal loans in rural areas, incurs high loan default costs. Yet, like other governments, the Government of Pakistan supports the formal scheme on the grounds that lending to agriculture is a high risk activity because of covariate risk. Hence, such policies are often based on a market failure argument. As farm credit schemes are subsidised, policy makers must know if these schemes are worth supporting. Using a recent large household survey data from rural Pakistan (Rural Financial Market Studies or RFMS), we have attempted to estimate the effectiveness of the ADBP as a credit delivery institution. A two‐stage method that takes the endogeneity of borrowing into account is used to estimate credit impact. Results reveal that ADBP contributes to household welfare and that its impact is higher for smallholders than for large holders. Nevertheless, large holders receive the bulk of ADBP finance. The ADBP is, thus, not a cost‐effective institution in delivering rural finance. Its cost‐effectiveness can be improved by reducing its loan default cost and partially by targeting smallholders in agriculture where credit yields better results.
Price dynamics in the Bangladesh rice market: implications for public intervention
Authors: Brennan Donna 
Published: August 2005

AbstractIn this paper, the price dynamics of a rice market are examined using dynamic programming techniques. The model is parameterised to the case of Bangladesh and thus represents the situation of a very poor country which has characteristically high price elasticity (due to income effects) and high storage and interest costs. The incentives for private sector storage and its impact on price stability are examined. Various options for public intervention in the storage sector are also explored, including price ceiling schemes and subsidisation of storage costs. Results show that interventions that remove private disincentives (such as storage subsidies) are much cheaper than direct intervention by government, but the impact on the probability distribution of prices is quite different. The effect of trade on the probability distribution of prices is also examined.
Investment in soil conservation in northern Ethiopia: the role of land tenure security and public programs
Authors: Gebremedhin Berhanu , Swinton Scott M. 
Published: August 2005

AbstractA double hurdle statistical analysis of 250 farms in the Tigray region of Ethiopia reveals different causal factors for soil conservation adoption versus intensity of use. Farmers' reasons for adopting soil conservation measures vary sharply between stone terraces and soil bunds. Long‐term investments in stone terraces were associated with secure land tenure, labour availability, proximity to the farmstead and learning opportunities via the existence of local food‐for‐work (FFW) projects. By contrast, short‐term investments in soil bunds were strongly linked to insecure land tenure and the absence of local food‐for‐work projects. Public conservation campaigns on private plots reduced adoption of both stone terraces and soil bunds.Whereas capacity factors largely influenced the adoption decision, expected returns carried more influence for the intensity of stone terrace adoption (measured as metres of terrace per hectare). More stone terracing was built where fertile but erodible silty soils in higher rainfall areas offered valuable yield benefits. Intensity of terracing was also greater in remote villages where limited off‐farm employment opportunities reduced construction costs.These results highlight the importance of the right kind of public interventions. Direct public involvement in constructing soil conservation structures on private lands appears to undermine incentives for private conservation investments. When done on public lands, however, public conservation activities may encourage private soil conservation by example. Secure land tenure rights clearly reinforce private incentives to make long‐term investments in soil conservation.
Optimal generic advertising in an imperfectly competitive food industry with variable proportions⋆
Authors: Kinnucan Henry W. 
Published: August 2005

AbstractThis paper determines the impact of food industry market power on farmers' incentives to promote in a situation where funds for promotion are raised through a per‐unit assessment on farm output and food industry technology is characterized by variable proportions. Specifically, building on earlier studies by Azzam [Am. J. Agric. Econ. 80 (1998) 76] and Holloway [Am. J. Agric. Econ. 73 (1991) 979], Muth's [Oxford Econ. Papers 16 (1965) 221] model is extended to consider the farm‐level impacts of generic advertising when downstream firms possess oligopoly and/or oligopsony power and advertising expenditure is endogenous at the market level. Applying the model to the US beef industry, we find that for plausible parameter values market power reduces farmers' incentives to promote. However, the disincentive is moderated by factor substitution, and effectively vanishes as the factor substitution elasticity approaches the retail demand elasticity. This suggests that the Dorfman–Steiner theorem, suitably modified to account for factor substitution, suffices to indicate optimal advertising intensity in the US beef sector.
Factors determining intercropping by rubber smallholders in Sri Lanka: a logit analysis
Authors: Herath P.H.M.U. , Takeya Hiroyuki 
Published: August 2005

AbstractVariables related to farmers' awareness and attitudes towards intercropping of immature rubber (Hevea brusiliensis) stands, extension contacts, education level, and experience with farming other crops are positively associated with the probability of adoption. Higher levels of off‐farm income are associated with reduced intercropping in immature rubber stands. Farmers who are sole owners of the land and engaged in full or part‐time rubber farming show lower adoption rates than other land ownership groups. Social participation, family size, experience with farming rubber, immature and mature rubber stands size, and the nature of the land (flat/sloped) do not significantly influence adoption. These conclusions were obtained from a logit model estimated by employing the results of a survey of 588 smallholder rubber farmers from five major rubber‐growing regions in Sri Lanka.
Public infrastructure and productivity growth in Greek agriculture
Authors: Mamatzakis E.C. 
Published: August 2005

AbstractRecent research has focused on the effect of public infrastructure on economic performance. In this paper, a model of Greek agriculture's technology and behaviour is constructed based on the dual cost function framework. The model provides a decomposition of productivity growth into the components technical change, returns to scale, and public infrastructure. The empirical estimates indicate that public infrastructure investment provides a significant return to agriculture and augments productivity growth. Over the period 1960–1995, the impact of public infrastructure on productivity growth in livestock and crop production is found to be positive, although it has been declining since the late 1970s. These results strongly suggest that a decline in public infrastructure investment can partly explain the observed decline in the productivity growth of Greek agriculture in the 1980s.