bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Helicobacter pylori cag pathogenicity island genotype diversity within the gastric niche of a single host
Authors: Matteo Mario José , Granados Gabriela , Pérez Cecilia Valeria , Olmos Martín , Sanchez Cristian , Catalano Mariana
Published: April 2007

cag pathogenicity island (PAI) integrity was investigated in isolates from multiple biopsies recovered from 40 patients in an attempt to determine the co-existence of a varying cagPAI-positive to cagPAI-negative ratio in a single host. Six biopsies were obtained from each patient during the same endoscopic session. cagPAI analysis included amplification of seven loci (cagA, cagE, cagG, cagM, cagT, HP0527 and HP0524) and the left end of cagII (LEC). Absence of the island was confirmed by empty-site PCR. lspA-glmM RFLP and random amplified polymorphic DNA PCR were used for strain delineation. The number of biopsies with Helicobacter pylori-positive culture ranged from three to six per patient and a total of 218 isolates were recovered. Mixed infection was only found in two patients. Nearly one-third of the 40 patients harboured isolates with an intact cagPAI in all niches, another third of the isolates were empty-site-positive in all niches, whilst the remaining third of the isolates had a disrupted cagPAI in all or at least one of the niches. Co-existence of variants of the same strain with different cagPAI genotypes was observed in one-quarter of patients. The variations in cagPAI genotype included co-existence of: diverse cagPAI deletions in different niches, variants with intact and with partially deleted islands, variants with empty-site-positive and with partially deleted cagPAIs, and variants with an intact cagPAI and with empty-site-positive. Half of the patients with different cagPAI genotypes harboured an intact cagPAI in at least one niche. Co-existence of diverse genotypes of putative virulence factors in a single host must be considered when drawing a correlation with clinical presentation.
Aloe vera leaf exudate induces a caspase-independent cell death in Leishmania donovani promastigotes
Authors: Dutta Avijit , Bandyopadhyay Suman , Mandal Chitra , Chatterjee Mitali
Published: April 2007

Leishmaniasis constitutes a complex of diseases with clinical and epidemiological diversity and includes visceral leishmaniasis, a disease that is fatal when left untreated. In earlier studies, the authors reported thatAloe veraleaf exudate (AVL) is a potent antileishmanial agent effective in promastigotes ofLeishmania braziliensis,Leishmania mexicana,Leishmania tropica,Leishmania majorandLeishmania infantumand also in axenic amastigotes ofLeishmania donovani. In the present study, it has been demonstrated that, in promastigotes ofL. donovani(IC50=110 μg ml−1), AVL mediates this leishmanicidal effect by triggering a programmed cell death. Incubation of promastigotes with AVL caused translocation of phosphatidylserine to the outer leaflet of the plasma membrane as measured by annexin V binding, which was accompanied by loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, release of cytochromecinto the cytosol and concomitant nuclear alterations that included chromatin condensation, deoxynucleotidyltransferase-mediated dUTP end labelling and DNA laddering. As this AVL-induced leishmanicidal effect could not be inhibited by protease inhibitors including Z-Val-Ala-dl-Asp (methoxy)-fluoromethylketone, a broad-spectrum caspase inhibitor, non-involvement of caspases and major proteases was suggested. Additionally, AVL treatment caused no increase in cytosolic Ca2+or generation of reactive oxygen species, indicating that although promastigote death was induced by an apoptotic-like mechanism similar to metazoan apoptosis, the pathways of induction and/or execution differed at the molecular level.
Evolution of antibody response and fungal antigens in the serum of a patient infected with Candida famata
Authors: Pisa Diana , Ramos Marta , Molina Susana , García Patricia , Carrasco Luis
Published: April 2007

The presence of fungal antibodies and antigens in the serum of a patient diagnosed in 1996 with acute zonal occult outer retinopathy caused by Candida famata infection was examined. Antibodies against C. famata increased until 1999–2000 when antifungal treatment was initiated. The antibodies were detected by ELISA and immunofluorescence analysis using C. famata. These antibodies were not immunoreactive against several Candida species tested. Positive immunofluorescence was obtained with IgM, but not IgA, IgG or IgE. Moreover, the IgM response disappeared several months after treatment with antifungal compounds, despite the fact that C. famata antigens were present in the blood. Finally, a sensitive test was developed to assay for the presence of C. famata antigens in serum based on the immunodetection of fungal antigens transferred to a nitrocellulose membrane and incubated with rabbit antibodies raised against C. famata. According to this method, the infection diminished with antifungal treatment.
Rhizopus microsporus var. rhizopodiformis sinus–orbital zygomycosis in an immunosuppressed patient: successful treatment with posaconazole after a complicated clinical course
Authors: Stark D. , Milliken S. , Marriott D. , Harkness J.
Published: April 2007

A case of sinus–orbital Rhizopus microsporus var. rhizopodiformis infection in a patient with graft versus host disease following allogeneic blood stem cell transplantation is reported. Commercially available pea straw compost used for gardening was suspected to be the source of the infection. After an initial relapse, treatment with surgical debridement, liposomal amphotericin B and posaconazole was successful.
Criteria for successful blended learning
Authors: Mitchell Anthony , Honore Sue
Published: April 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to highlight the factors that need to be considered when implementing a blended learning solution in a group environment.

Design/methodology/approach

The insights are based on the authors experience of delivering a blended learning module to successive cohorts of international Executive MBA candidates over a three year period. A range of post‐module evaluation mechanisms were utilized to collect quantitative and qualitative data and this was supported by face‐to‐face and online discussion with participants. In addition, the authors own reflections on the experience as faculty and e‐learning consultants has been taken account of in the interpretation of the results.

Findings

The importance of human behavioral factors over content and tool selection when implementing a blended learning solution cannot be ignored. The role of group dynamics in achieving the learning outcomes also needs to be considered, as does the perceived value of the approach to be taken by the participants. Findings relate to both the e‐learning experience and other learning methods experienced on the course, influenced partly by the students' expectations and preferences.

Practical implications

Key learning is shared with readers so that they can learn from the author's experiences such that anyone considering a blended learning approach in the future considers the three‐way partnership of the organization, the learner and the supplier.

Originality/value

This article will be of special interest to e‐learning developers or development specialists considering blended learning approaches as it draws their attention to the factors beyond the technological application itself which is where attention can become overly focused.
Coaching your way to the top
Authors: Sweeney Tony
Published: April 2007

Purpose

The article looks at how coaching has become more accessible and functional with direct benefits for the individual and the organization.

Design/methodology/approach

The coaching program in each example sited was developed and delivered over a period of several months. In most instances, coaching was included as assessment of needs, group based training (a workshop) followed by tailored coaching. Key outcomes and goals were agreed between the coach and the individual.

Findings

Results were measured by holding a review to assess the issues, barriers, objectives, learning and successes.

Originality/value

The following key learning points are outlined: recipient and coach clarify and agree objectives; engage and gain commitment to the coaching plan; assess activity to track learning and measure results; integrate the learning into the workplace; and encourage recognition of successes and celebrate them.
The contribution of e‐HRM to HRM effectiveness
Authors: Ruël Huub J.M. , Bondarouk Tanya V. , Van der Velde Mandy
Published: April 2007

Purpose

Both for‐profit and not‐for‐profit organisations have been replacing face‐to‐face HRM activities with web‐based HRM tools, e‐HRM for short, for employees and managers since the 1990s. This paper aims to look at whether this is of benefit to an organisation.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was conducted in the Ministry of Internal Affairs in The Netherlands, where e‐HRM in the form of employee self‐service applications was introduced.

Findings

The study shows that individual assessment of e‐HRM applications influences HRM technical and strategic effectiveness. This is especially so in the perceived quality of the content and the structure of e‐HRM applications which have a significant and positive effect on technical and strategic HRM effectiveness.

Research limitations/implications

It is difficult to form generalizations from the research into only one company.

Practical implications

The basic expectations are that using e‐HRM will decrease costs, will improve the HR service level and will give the HR department space to become a strategic partner. This study investigates whether this is the case.

Originality/value

The area on which this study concentrates has not had extensive academic research conducted into it.
An analysis of the role of European works councils in British workplaces
Authors: Redfern David
Published: April 2007

Purpose

The paper seeks to identify the nature of the contribution that European works councils (EWCs) have made to six British workplaces and their employees.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative longitudinal study of the workplaces (2001‐2004) is discussed, which analyses the views of those senior managers and representatives directly involved together with those who have no immediate role but are intended to be beneficiaries of a council's activities: managers, representatives and employees.

Findings

A range of factors are identified that, in most instances, frustrated the realisation of the intended objective of EWCs. Those findings contrasted with the initial optimism concerning EWCs created by the use of quantitative research methods. Whilst councils are diverse in character, a backdrop is provided to some of the challenging representational issues and it explores the scope for managerial manipulation and control, given the limitations of the legislation and the sometimes fragmented activities of representatives.

Research limitations/implications

However, it is acknowledged that in a limited number of instances EWCs have made a significant contribution.

Originality/value

The paper reflects the expertise of the author and will be of interest to those in the field.
How quality control circles enhance work safety: a case study
Authors: Salaheldin Salaheldin I. , Zain Mohamed
Published: April 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore how quality control circles (QCCs) enhance work safety in a manufacturing firm in a developing country environment of the Middle East.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is an exploratory investigation into the role of QCCs in enhancing work safety based on a case study method. This includes: a comprehensive scrutiny of the relevant literature; and an analysis of a case study of QCCs implementation for enhancing work safety in Direct Reduction Furnace Zone at Qasco, a steel mill in the State of Qatar.

Findings

At the outset, the QCC team identified three specific targets for them to achieve in order to ensure a safe work environment for its workers. After having identified the causes of the problems, the team members were able to analyze the problems, generate alternative solutions, and eventually implement the best solutions. Consequently, the members were able to achieve all their targets.

Research limitations/implications

There is a need to empirically test and refine the critical factors affecting the successful implementation of QCCs and to explore the most important barriers that might impede the success of their implementation.

Practical implications

The findings of this study can be considered as a roadmap for successful implementation of QCCs in all the subsidiaries of Industries Qatar, the parent company of Qasco, and perhaps in all other organizations in the different sectors and industries but with a similar working environment to that of Qasco.

Originality/value

Generally, the results of this research should enhance the current practices of QCCs implementation, which mostly follow narrowly‐focused approaches. In essence, the results of this research will help management in making crucial decisions and in resource allocations that are required to make the QCCs implementation a success.
Modernisation and gender representation: the enterprise sector in Scotland
Authors: McTavish Duncan , Pyper Robert
Published: April 2007

Purpose

A key aspect of the government's modernisation programme is to promote greater gender balance and diversity across public sector institutions and services. This includes appointments to and membership of public funded bodies. This paper reports on initial research on gender representation on boards in the Scottish enterprise (SE) sector.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey of membership by gender of SE and local enterprise company (LEC) boards; questionnaire survey of board members (n=66 – 43 male, 23 female); elite interviews.

Findings

Gender imbalance skewed in favour of males to an even greater extent than the public appointments sector as a whole. Women were more likely to approach board membership through formal means than by personal contact. Men and women had different views about personal contribution made to boards. Women surveyed tended to serve on more boards than did men. There were major procedural differences and inconsistencies between LECs and between LECs and SE regarding board recruitment.

Practical implications

Appointments procedures could be altered to ensure consistency, transparency and increased “gaze” across the enterprise network. Ways should be found to increase the female recruitment pool to counter the over stretching currently observed among existing female board members.

Originality/value

This research highlights the challenges faced by modernisation in this sector with respect to improving gender balance in representational terms. The next stage of the research will focus on substantive representation in the enterprise sector.
Harnessing the power of consumer insight
Authors: Florin Dave , Callen Barry , Pratzel Mike , Kropp Jeane
Published: April 2007

Purpose

Marketing today requires gaining deeper understanding – beyond traditional insight‐gathering techniques –of the “whys,” “whens” and “hows” of human behavior. This article aims to explore how deep you must go, while revealing market‐savvy ways to make your product or brand better serve the needs of your target consumer.

Design/methodology/approach

The article is based on Hiebing's more than 25 years of integrated brand development and marketing experience, which has helped hundreds of clients find, design and deliver powerful strategies and communications that have increased brands' impacts and profits.

Findings

Gaining true consumer understanding before developing strategies and crafting communications – or even the brand itself – is critical for success. The profusion of consumer options means marketers must delve deeper than ever before to truly understand the target's underlying motivation for purchase and usage of products.

Originality/value

This article challenges the belief that traditional market research alone is enough to succeed in today's world. It is equally important to understand the complexities of consumer motivation and decision making.
The internet and export marketing performance
Authors: Nhat Lu Vinh , Julian Craig C.
Published: April 2007

Purpose

This study seeks to examine the empirical link in export market ventures of the relationship between the internet (when it is used for communication, networking, market research, sales, image enhancement, cost reduction and competitive advantage purposes) and export marketing performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were gathered via a self‐administered mail survey of Australian exporters. The sample consisted of 133 Australian firms coming from a wide cross‐section of industries.

Findings

The findings indicate that, when the internet was used to achieve a competitive advantage for the firm and reduce the costs associated in doing international business, these uses of the internet were significant in discriminating between high and low export marketing performance. Furthermore, the international experience of the export venture's management was a significant factor in discriminating between high and low export marketing performance.

Research limitations/implications

From a methodological perspective, a potential concern may be that the measures are all self‐reported. Consequently, the relationships tested may be susceptible to the influence of common method variance. Evidence has been provided that, when the internet is used for cost reduction purposes and as a competitive weapon, this will have a positive impact on export marketing performance.

Originality/value

A major contribution of this study is that it re‐validates measures for the different uses of the internet, namely, communication, networking, market research, sales, image enhancement, cost reduction and competitive advantage.
Rethinking internal communication: a stakeholder approach
Authors: Welch Mary , Jackson Paul R.
Published: April 2007

Purpose

Effective internal communication is crucial for successful organisations as it affects the ability of strategic managers to engage employees and achieve objectives. This paper aims to help organisations improve internal communication by proposing theory with the potential to improve practice.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper identifies gaps in the academic literature and addresses calls for discussion and definition of internal communication, for theory on its mandates, scope and focus and to counteract the tendency to treat employees as a uni‐dimensional “single public”. To address these gaps, internal communication is defined and positioned within the corporate communication school of thought.

Findings

The paper proposes an Internal Communication Matrix which could be used to supplement other forms of internal situational analysis and as an analytical tool which may be applied to the strategic analysis, planning and evaluation of internal communication.

Practical implications

Strategic communication practitioners are offered a fresh perspective from which to consider internal communication. The Internal Communication Matrix proposed here could be used to supplement other forms of internal situational analysis and as an analytical tool which may be applied to the strategic analysis, planning and evaluation of internal communication. The internal corporate communication concept offers a lens through which communicators can consider communication strategy and tactics.

Originality/value

This paper's theoretical contribution is significant as it addresses gaps in the literature on internal communication. It does this by conceptualising a multidimensional stakeholder approach summarised in the Internal Communication Matrix. This approach is significant since it broadens previous approaches. The paper introduces the concept of internal corporate communication and argues that it should be a key focus for corporate communication theory and practice as it concerns all employees.
Information processing and new product success: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Pentina Iryna , Strutton David
Published: April 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to analyze and quantitatively compare existing empirical findings on the role of organizational information‐processing and new product outcomes. The meta‐analytic technique is used to reconcile some of the current divergent thinking on the role of organizational learning in new product success.

Design/methodology/approach

The method and procedure of the meta‐analysis are utilized to generalize existing empirical findings regarding the role of information processing in new product success by evaluating homogeneity of the obtained results, and measurement‐ and context‐related moderators of the relationship magnitude. It reports and discusses the results, and proposes theoretical and managerial implications of the findings.

Findings

The meta‐analysis of the relationship between organizational information processing and new product success supports an overall positive effect, and identifies measurement‐ and context‐related moderators influencing the magnitude of the relationship.

Research limitations/implications

The analysis, done on the limited number of available effect sizes (77) due to the newness of the area, provides guidance to future researchers by clarifying operationalization and measurement of the main constructs, and suggesting the role of context variables for sampling purposes.

Practical implications

The paper provides guidance to New Product Development (NPD) team leaders by emphasizing the need for integrating information‐related processes and idea management at various NPD stages, and stressing better effectiveness of information processing at the team level.

Originality/value

This first meta‐analysis in the area of information processing and new product outcomes confirms the importance of organizational learning in new product development and outlines important implications for future research and managerial practice.
Intellectual capital reporting between a developing and developed nation
Authors: Abeysekera Indra
Published: April 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the patterns of intellectual capital reporting (ICR) of large listed firms in a developing nation, Sri Lanka. The aim of this study is to highlight the differences in ICR practice between developing and developed nations.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper begins by examining each of the top 30 firms by market capitalization listed on the Colombo stock exchange in 1998/1999 and 1999/2000. Using the content analysis method, it reviews the annual reports of these firms to determine the types of intellectual capital (IC) items reported in Sri Lanka. It then compares these findings with a similar study undertaken in Australia during the same period.

Findings

The findings in this paper highlight the need for a uniform ICR definition and a reporting framework that provides comparative and consistent reporting under the auspices of a regulatory body. ICR differences were identified between Sri Lankan and Australian firms, and it is argued that these differences can be attributed to economic, social and political factors.

Practical implications

This paper highlights important policy issues for Australia, Sri Lanka and other nations. These issues are even more pertinent in the light of the gradual international adoption of the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs), formulated by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB).

Originality/value

Most papers on intellectual capital reporting have focused on firms in developed countries. This paper offers insights into comparative reporting practices between a developed and a developing country.
Compliance with NICE guidance: concurrent use of different antipsychotic drugs
Authors: Ozbilen Mehmet , Cottrell David
Published: April 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to present an audit assessed compliance with NICE guidance on the concurrent use of different antipsychotic drugs.

Design/methodology/approach

Two explicit and evidence‐based standards were audited and a full audit cycle was completed.

Findings

The paper finds that although the number of people receiving only one regular antipsychotic increased over time, so did the number receiving more than one regular antipsychotic. Fewer people were receiving one regular antipsychotic and a different PRN antipsychotic in the re‐audit.

Practical implications

Clearer guidance about the limits and reviewing of multiple antipsychotics would be welcome.

Originality/value‐

The paper suggests that dissemination, re‐audit and clear documentation are needed to maintain standards of clinical practice.
Natural hazards and climate change: stakeholder communication and decision‐making processes
Authors: Schmidt‐Thomé Philipp , Schmidt‐Thomé Kaisa
Published: April 2007

Purpose

Headlines of increasing financial losses caused by natural hazards and the potential impact of climate change on these raise broad interest in risk management. This paper seeks to claim that the existing decision‐making support, for example through spatial planning, can easily integrate risk assessment schemes.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on the results of two EU funded research projects and further applications of those – as well as on conclusions drawn from presentations and discussions at the International Disaster Reduction Conference.

Findings

Discussion around risk governance highlights the role of integration. This discussion is still very much in need of further development and successful ways to implement integrative, participatory governance.

Practical implications

The research results presented have been elaborated in close cooperation with stakeholders. One example is based on a commissioned EU task that analyzed the effectiveness of European Regional Fund projects in the case of environmental risks. The other one describes how a town council took a decision which was based on information drawn from a project focusing on climate change adaptation.

Originality/value

The paper describes two examples of successful implementation which make us ask if new approaches are actually required or whether current spatial planning and development practices might be sufficient, when properly applied and fine‐tuned, to respond towards natural hazards and climate change impacts.
Preparation and Partial Characterization of Monoclonal Antibodies Against the Protective Protein Antigen of Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae
Authors: Sato H. , Yamazaki Y. , Kodaira A. , Saito H. , Maehara N.
Published: April 2007

Thirteen mouse monoclonal antibodies (Mabs) against the protective protein antigen (P64) of Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae were prepared and partially characterized. The titres of the Mabs varied from 200 to 1 638 400 as determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Of the 13 Mabs 10, two and one belonged to the IgG2a, IgG1 and IgM subclasses, respectively. All Mabs reacted strongly with the 64 kDa protein and weakly with the 43 kDa protein upon Western blotting of the alkaline extract (AE) of E. rhusiopathiae. The protective activity (pd50/ml) of the 13 Mabs against E. rhusiopathiae infection in mice varied from <50 to >50 000. These Mabs were classified into three groups, highly protective Mabs, moderately protective Mabs and Mabs which did not possess protective activity, based on the protective index (ratio of the pd50/ml to the antibody titre). These results suggest that the 64 kDa protein is an effective protective antigen, which is easily cleaved into many small proteins, including the 43 kDa protein, and possesses at least two epitopes related to its protective activity and at least one epitope which is not related to protection of mice against E. rhusiopathiae infection.
Experimental Camelpox Infection in Vaccinated and Unvaccinated Dromedaries
Authors: Wernery U. , Zachariah R.
Published: April 2007

Four dromedaries were infected with a virulent camelpox virus strain which was isolated from the lung of a Saudi Arabian camel. The camels which were infected intradermally and subcutaneously developed severe generalized camelpox. One of these camels had to be euthanized on humane grounds and the second one died 13 days after being infected. This dromedary also developed internal pox. Neither dromedary showed camelpox antibodies before infection.

The other two camels which had been vaccinated with Ducapox 6 years prior to the viral challenge did not develop any clinical symptoms when given 5 ml of the field virus intravenously and intramuscularly. They seroconverted after the challenge. Although only two camels were used for this trial, the results indicate that a single dose of Ducapox can protect 1‐year‐old camels from camelpox infection for several years.
Accuracy of nurses' perceptions of voice hearing and psychiatric symptoms
Authors: England Margaret
Published: April 2007

Title. Accuracy of nurses' perceptions of voice hearing and psychiatric symptoms

Aim. This article reports a study of nurses’ assessments of a voice hearer's voices and psychiatric symptoms, and associations of these perceptions with nurses’ education, career experience and primary care role.

Background. Traditional views in nursing suggest that to engage voice hearers in a discussion of their voices is to support the psychopathology of the voice hearers. Research into how voice hearers conceptualize voice hearing has generated a range of perspectives, raising concerns about whether nurses capture sufficient, accurate and specific assessment data about the experiences of voice hearers.

Method. One hundred and fifteen psychiatric nurses rated items on an Inventory of Voice Experiences and the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale while viewing a videotaped assessment of a voice hearer with serious and persistent mental illness. The voice hearer in the videotape used the same instruments to rate his own voices and symptoms. This self‐assessment was undertaken 30 days before and immediately before production of the video‐recorded assessment. The data were collected between 2000 and 2002.

Results. The voice hearer's ratings of his voice hearing experiences and psychiatric symptoms were consistent over a 30‐day period. Most nurse ratings of the voice hearer's voices and psychiatric symptoms did not match those of the voice hearer. However, the voice hearer and nurses demonstrated a moderately positive association between the voice hearer's voices and symptoms. Ratings of graduate‐educated case managers and clinical nurse specialists (n = 30) in clinical practice settings were more consistent with one another and corresponded more closely with the ratings of the voice hearer, particularly for the association between the voice hearer's voices and symptoms.

Conclusion. Accurate and specific assessment of voice hearing may facilitate engagement with voice hearers and improve the selection of strategies to help them manage the voices that upset them.
Relationship of nurses’ spirituality to their understanding and practice of spiritual care
Authors: Chung Loretta Yuet Foon , Wong Frances Kam Yuet , Chan Moon Fai
Published: April 2007

Title. Relationship of nurses’ spirituality to their understanding and practice of spiritual care

Aim.  This paper reports a study to examine the relationship of nurses’ spirituality to their understanding and practice of spiritual care.

Background.  Continued debate surrounds the concept, practice and teaching of spirituality, highlighting the complexity and importance of understanding spirituality and the delivery of spiritual care. Spirituality is defined in this study as the relationship with the self and a dimension beyond the self.

Method.  A convenience sample of 61 nurses from a part‐time Bachelor of Science degree programme in nursing in Hong Kong, more than half of whom reported their religious affiliations, completed a newly developed, 27‐item five‐point Likert scale questionnaire. The data were collected in 2002. Descriptive statistics were calculated. Correlations were used to determine relationships among self, understanding and practices of spiritual care. The Mann–Whitney U and Kruskal–Wallis tests were used to examine differences between demographic variables and spirituality, understanding and practices of spiritual care. Multiple linear regression was used to determine factors contributing to understanding and practices of spiritual care.

Findings.  A positive statistically significant correlation was found between self and the following three variables: dimension beyond self (r = 0·35, P < 0·001), understanding of spiritual care (r = 0·57, P < 0·001), and practice of spiritual care (r = 0·26, P < 0·05). The relative contributions of self to understanding (beta = 1·06, |t| = 10·74, P < 0·001) and practice of spiritual care (beta = 0·68, |t| = 3·62, P = 0·001) were statistically significant. There was no statistically significance difference between any of the demographic variables and understanding and practice of spiritual care, except for a negative relationship between religious affiliations and the dimension beyond self (P < 0·001).

Conclusion.  Through continuously seeking self‐awareness and connecting to a dimension beyond the self for inner resource, the contented whole self will be able to provide spiritual care.
Competencies and skills for remote and rural maternity care: a review of the literature
Authors: Ireland Jillian , Bryers Helen , Van Teijlingen Edwin , Hundley Vanora , Farmer Jane , Harris Fiona , Tucker Janet , Kiger Alice , Caldow Jan
Published: April 2007

Title. Competencies and skills for remote and rural maternity care: a review of the literature

Aim.  This paper reports a review of the literature on skills, competencies and continuing professional development necessary for sustainable remote and rural maternity care.

Background.  There is a general sense that maternity care providers in rural areas need specific skills and competencies. However, how these differ from generic skills and competencies is often unclear.

Methods.  Approaches used to access the research studies included a comprehensive search in relevant electronic databases using relevant keywords (e.g. ‘remote’, ‘midwifery’, ‘obstetrics’, ‘nurse–midwives’, education’, ‘hospitals’, ‘skills’, ‘competencies’, etc.). Experts were approached for (un‐)published literature, and books and journals known to the authors were also used. Key journals were hand searched and references were followed up. The original search was conducted in 2004 and updated in 2006.

Findings.  Little published literature exists on professional education, training or continuous professional development in maternity care in remote and rural settings. Although we found a large literature on competency, little was specific to competencies for rural practice or for maternity care. ‘Hands‐on’ skills courses such as Advanced Life Support in Obstetrics and the Neonatal Resuscitation Programme increase confidence in practice, but no published evidence of effectiveness of such courses exists.

Conclusion.  Educators need to be aware of the barriers facing rural practitioners, and there is potential for increasing distant learning facilitated by videoconferencing or Internet access. They should also consider other assessment methods than portfolios. More research is needed on the levels of skills and competencies required for maternity care professionals practising in remote and rural areas.
The Swiss agri‐environment scheme enhances pollinator diversity and plant reproductive success in nearby intensively managed farmland
Authors: ALBRECHT MATTHIAS , DUELLI PETER , MÜLLER CHRISTINE , KLEIJN DAVID , SCHMID BERNHARD
Published: April 2007

Agri‐environment schemes attempt to counteract the loss of biodiversity and associated ecosystem services such as pollination and natural pest control in agro‐ecosystems. However, only a few studies have evaluated whether these attempts are successful.

We studied the effects of managing meadows according to the prescriptions of ecological compensation areas (ECA), the most widely adopted agri‐environment scheme in Switzerland, on both pollinator species richness and abundance, and the reproductive success of plants in nearby intensively managed meadows (IM).

We established arrays of four pots, each containing individuals of three insect‐pollinated, non‐autogamous ‘phytometer’ species (Raphanus sativus,Hypochaeris radicataandCampanula glomerata), in ECA and adjacent IM at increasing distances from the ECA at 13 sites.

Species richness and abundance of hoverflies, solitary bees and large‐sized pollinators (mainly social bees and butterflies) were significantly higher in ECA than in adjacent IM. Species richness and abundance of small‐sized pollinators in IM declined significantly with increasing distance from ECA, whereas large‐sized pollinators were not significantly affected by distance. Plant species richness and flower abundance were the major drivers of pollinator species richness and abundance; the area of an ECA had no significant influence.

Individual plants ofR. sativusandC. glomerataproduced more and heavier seeds in ECA than in IM. Furthermore, the number of seeds of these two phytometer species was positively correlated with species richness and abundance of bees. No such effects were observed for individual plants ofH. radicata. The number of fruits and seeds per plant ofR. sativusin IM decreased with increasing distance from ECA.

Synthesis and applications.We conclude that establishing ECA is an effective method of enhancing both pollinator species richness and abundance and pollination services to nearby intensely managed farmland. Our study emphasizes the importance of connectivity between ECA in maintaining diverse pollinator communities and thereby providing pollination services in agricultural landscapes.
Influence of landscape pattern on breeding distribution and success in a threatened Alcid, the marbled murrelet: model transferability and management implications
Authors: ZHARIKOV YURI , LANK DAVID B. , COOKE FRED
Published: April 2007

The marbled murrelet Brachyramphus marmoratus is a threatened Alcid nesting in old‐growth coastal forests from central California to Alaska. Logging has greatly reduced the amount and altered the pattern of the species’ nesting habitat. Landscape fragmentation effects on the breeding ecology of the species are poorly understood because of the inaccessibility of nest sites.

Using radio‐telemetry, 157 marbled murrelet nests were located in two old‐growth areas in British Columbia, Canada, with different logging histories. Probable breeding success was estimated from nest attendance patterns by radio‐tagged parents. Information‐theoretic and hypothesis‐testing methods were used to model breeding distribution (used vs. random unknown sites) and success (successful vs. failed nests) within c. 50‐km radius extents at a scale of 2·3‐km radius landscapes. Intersite transferability of distribution models was tested.

Breeding distribution was positively related with old‐growth patch proximity, edge density (natural and artificial) and contrast, proportion of landscape under old‐growth or core habitat, and interspersion of old‐growth patches; it was negatively related with coastal zone proximity and mean old‐growth patch size. Breeding success was negatively affected by the edge contrast, coast proximity and proportion of young forest, probably reflecting the distribution of nest predators.

All distribution models discriminated well between used and random landscapes within the training area. Intersite model transferability was good for 50% of the models. The models less predictive of the training site (area under the curve 0·676–0·738) were more transferable, probably because at the training site, which had considerably less old‐growth nesting habitat (18% of extent) than the testing site (55%), breeding distribution was driven by a different subset of predictors.

Synthesis and applications. Geographic information system (GIS) data were helpful in discriminating between landscapes known to be used by nesting marbled murrelets and those with unknown breeding status. Previous indirect inferences about landscape‐level effects on breeding distribution in the birds were shown to correspond with their true nesting distribution. Our results suggest that habitat fragmentation per se need not have a negative effect on the birds beyond that as a result of habitat loss, unless associated with an increased abundance of predators. Our results fine‐tune the existing habitat conservation guidelines by suggesting that protection of old‐growth forest adjacent to clearcuts is important. We provide a means for desktop classification of marbled murrelet landscapes. We advise the application of several different models, depending on the amount of remaining old‐growth forest, to evaluate the consistency of predictions.
The Elastodynamics of Embryonic Epidermal Wound Closure
Authors: Sadovsky Alexander , Wan Frederic Y. M.
Published: April 2007

This paper is concerned with the elastodynamics of embryonic epidermal wound closing. Underlying the recovery process for this type of wounds is a mechanism of wound recognition through directed cell‐to‐cell signaling. The observed actin filament realignment induced by the biological signals leads to a purse‐string effect and the resulting (unknown) “active stresses.” The circumferential contraction of the epidermis surrounding the wound is then determined by the laws of mechanics and propagation properties of the relevant cell–cell signaling that decays with distance. With the wound known to retract for a short period immediately after infliction, the quasi‐equilibrium configuration reached during this initial phase serves as the initial condition for the dynamic wound closing phase. A small strain variation of the Murray–Sherratt model of the quasi‐equilibrium problem will be formulated for speedy computation of this initial state at the inception of the wound closure phase, with the latter problem being the main concern of this paper. Some theoretical developments are found to be instrumental to an efficient algorithm for the otherwise time‐consuming task of calculating the effect of the biological signals generated by the presence of a wound. Application of our elastodynamic model to the case of a circular wound suggests that the propagation range of our choice of cell–cell signaling mechanism must be above a certain minimum fraction of the wound radius for wound closure. As expected, stress concentration occurs adjacent to the edge of the remaining small wound near the end of the wound closing process. At that point, the present model is not expected to be adequate and more appropriate expressions of elastic strain and active stress induced by actin filaments may be in order. Other biological processes such as cell proliferation and differentiation may be involved.
Scattering Theorems for Acoustic Excitation of a Layered Obstacle by an Interior Point Source
Authors: Athanasiadis Christodoulos , Tsitsas Nikolaos L.
Published: April 2007

Interesting scientific and technological applications motivate the study of scattering problems, where a layered scatterer is excited by a spherical acoustic wave generated by a point‐source located in its interior. The scatterer's core may be acoustically soft, hard, resistive, or penetrable. This paper initiates the investigation of scattering theorems, corresponding to the excitation of a layered scatterer by a point source in its interior. Reciprocity and general scattering theorems are established, relating the total fields and the corresponding far‐field patterns. The optical theorem, relating the scattering cross‐section with the field in the layer containing the source, is recovered as a corollary of the general scattering theorem. Furthermore, for a scatterer excited by a spherical and a plane wave, mixed scattering theorems are derived. Numerical implementations of the optical theorem in concrete scattering applications are analyzed.
Evolution and phylogeny of the scarab subtribe Anisopliina (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Rutelinae: Anomalini)
Authors: JAMESON MARY LIZ , MICÓ ESTEFANIA , GALANTE EDUARDO
Published: April 2007

Abstract The subtribe Anisopliina (Scarabaeidae: Rutelinae: Anomalini) is associated with grasses, and its species are distributed in the Palaearctic, Oriental, Ethiopian, Nearctic and Neotropical biogeographical regions. Phylogenetic analysis of adult morphological characters was conducted to examine the monophyly and classification of the group, as well as to examine characters associated with grass pollinivory and graminivory. We review the biology, phylogeny and classification of the Anisopliina and provide an overview of each genus. The analysis of ninety‐one morphological characters using parsimony does not support the monophyly of the subtribe Anisopliina. Instead, the results provide support for a group referred to here as the anisopliine clade, a circum‐Mediterranean group, forming an internal clade within the well‐supported tribe Anomalini. Sister group relationships are discussed, possibly being associated with a New World anomaline taxon. Character states associated with grass herbivory, including mouthpart and leg characters, are discussed based on the phylogenetic analysis. Within the Anomalini, an evolutionary shift from generalized leaf feeding to grass associations and grass pollen feeding is supported.
Treatment of malignant ascites in patients with advanced cancer: Peritoneovenous shunt versus paracentesis
Authors: Seike Masahiro , Maetani Iruru , Sakai Yoshihiro
Published: April 2007

Background:  Malignant ascites in patients with advanced cancer is often difficult to treat and effective palliation is not achieved.

Methods:  We performed peritoneovenous shunt (PVS) placement in patients with malignant ascites, who were admitted to our institution between January 2000 and March 2005. The outcome of PVS placement was compared with paracentesis as a treatment option during the same period. Comparisons included changes in abdominal girth, hematocrit (Hct), blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine (Cr) measurements before and after PVS placement. The number of procedures, changes in the postoperative performance score, the median survival, possibility of discharge, and complications were compared between the two groups.

Results:  Twenty patients underwent PVS placement and 49 patients were subjected to paracentesis. After PVS, abdominal girth and Hct decreased significantly. BUN and Cr tended to decrease. The median number of procedures was less in the PVS group than in the paracentesis group (one vs two, respectively; P < 0.0001). The postoperative performance score showed a significant improvement following PVS placement (P = 0.0026). Median survival was significantly longer for patients undergoing PVS placement than for those undergoing paracentesis (42 days vs 18 days, respectively; P = 0.003). The rate of possible discharge was significantly higher for patients undergoing PVS placement (P = 0.0076). Severe complications were observed in one patient in the PVS group and in seven patients in the paracentesis group.

Conclusions:  PVS placement provides an effective treatment option for patients with refractory malignant ascites in advanced cancer, and yields a higher likelihood of discharge compared with conventional paracentesis.