bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of topical steroids on corneal epithelial healing after vitreoretinal surgery
Authors: Yülek Fatma , Özdek Sengül , Gürelik Gökhan , Hasanreisoğlu Berati
Published: April 2006

Purpose:  Topical steroid use is usually avoided in cases of corneal epithelial defect. We evaluated the effect of topical steroid treatment on corneal epithelial healing after epithelial debridement in vitreoretinal surgery.

Methods:  Our study population included 85 eyes undergoing vitreoretinal surgeries in our clinic. We prospectively compared the duration of corneal epithelial wound healing in 43 eyes in which topical dexamethasone was used with that in 42 eyes in which topical dexamethasone was not used in the early postoperative period after epithelial debridement. Factors that may retard corneal epithelial healing, including pre‐ and intraoperative topical solutions, median operative time, the presence of diabetes mellitus, prior ocular surgeries, pseudophakia, aphakia and the presence of intraocular gas or silicone oil in aphakic patients, were not significantly different between the two groups.

Results:  The mean corneal epithelial defect closure time was 59.7 ± 2.6 hours (mean ± SEM) in the group receiving topical steroid treatment, and 61.9 ± 2.6 hours in the group that did not receive steroids.

Conclusion:  Topical dexamethasone administered five times/day did not significantly retard corneal epithelial healing in subjects undergoing vitreoretinal surgery with postoperative topical steroid treatment, compared with subjects who did not receive steroid treatment.
Fibrin glue for preventing immediate postoperative hypotony following glaucoma drainage implant surgery
Authors: Välimäki Juha
Published: April 2006

Purpose:  To prevent a leak of aqueous around the tube in the immediate postoperative period after glaucoma drainage implant (GDI) surgery.

Methods:  A total of 42 eyes of 34 consecutive patients with refractory glaucoma requiring single‐plate Molteno implantation were retrospectively reviewed. Peritubular filtration was checked intraoperatively in all filtered eyes. Fibrin glue was used over the scleral flap intraoperatively in every eye with peritubular leakage. All Molteno tubes were completely closed with an absorbable ligature.

Results:  Peritubular filtration was detected in 11 eyes of 11 patients. All 11 eyes maintained intraocular pressure (IOP) ≥ 16 mmHg in the immediate postoperative phase. The mean IOP on the first postoperative day was 30.5 ± 10 mmHg. After an average follow‐up of 6 months, the mean IOP in these 11 eyes was 19.1 ± 6 mmHg. No complications or Seidel‐positive aqueous leak were observed during the follow‐up period.

Conclusions:  Results suggest that intraoperative use of fibrin glue is a viable option for reducing peritubular filtration and preventing immediate postoperative hypotony after GDI surgery.
Mary Shelley Studies: From “Author ofFrankenstein” to “the Great Work of Life”
Authors: Vargo Lisa
Published: April 2006

This essay traces developments in Mary Shelley studies, which arose in the late 1960s after a period of critical neglect. It looks backward to Victorian conceptions as they were promoted by her heirs to account for a view of Shelley as intellectually timid, a tendency to approach her writings through biographical perspectives, a conviction that her writings diminish in quality afterFrankenstein. If interest inFrankensteindating from the late 1960s served as a catalyst for study of her literary output, a proliferation of work on Shelley has been influenced by the much more recent appearance of scholarly and paperback editions of her writings. Critical trends in criticism of her fictions, biographical writings, travel literature, and editing are briefly surveyed, and the essay concludes with some tentative suggestions about possible directions. Above all, there is a need to continue to look beyondFrankensteinand to view Shelley’s self‐described “great work of life” from a more comprehensive perspective in which she is writing not merely as the wife of Percy Shelley or as the daughter of Mary Wollstonecraft and William Godwin, but in her own right.
‘Medieval Literature’ or ‘Early Europe’? How to Win Grants and Change the Course of Scholarship
Authors: Trigg Stephanie
Published: April 2006

This paper explores the unexpected success of the Network for Early European Research, based at the University of Western Australia, which was recently awarded A$1.6 million over a five‐year period to support research and postgraduate training in medieval and early modern studies in Australia. What lessons can be drawn from the success of this grant application for other projects in medieval studies that must compete for funding in national contests across all the disciplines? One of the distinctive strengths of the Network is its willingness to think in unusually broad terms about the influential reach of medieval and early modern social and cultural forms into settler colonies like eighteenth‐century Australia and beyond. But to what extent might government priorities be driving the nature of research? How can medieval studies best respond to these external pressures?
The mitochondrial permeability transition fromin vitroartifact to disease target
Authors: Bernardi Paolo , Krauskopf Alexandra , Basso Emy , Petronilli Valeria , Blalchy‐Dyson Elizabeth , Di Lisa Fabio , Forte Michael A.
Published: April 2006

The mitochondrial permeability transition pore is a high conductance channel whose opening leads to an increase of mitochondrial inner membrane permeability to solutes with molecular masses up to ≈ 1500 Da. In this review we trace the rise of the permeability transition pore from the status ofin vitroartifact to that of effector mechanism of cell death. We then cover recent results based on genetic inactivation of putative permeability transition pore components, and discuss their meaning for our understanding of pore structure. Finally, we discuss evidence indicating that the permeability transition pore plays a role in pathophysiology, with specific emphasis onin vivomodels of disease.
Calcium ions and integration in neural circuits
Authors: Verkhratsky A.
Published: April 2006

Integration in the nervous system is achieved by signal processing within dynamic functional ensembles formed by highly complex neuronal‐glial cellular circuits. The interactions between electrically excitable neuronal networks and electrically non‐excitable glial syncytium occur through either chemical transmission, which involves the release of transmitters from presynaptic terminals or from astroglial cells, or via direct intercellular contacts, gap junctions. Calcium ions act as a universal intracellular signalling system, which controls many aspects of neuronal‐glial communications. In neurones, calcium signalling events regulate the exocytosis of neurotransmitters and establish the link between excitation of postsynaptic cells and integrative intracellular events, which control synaptic strength, expression of genes and memory function. In glial cells metabotropic receptor mediated release of calcium ions from the intracellular endoplasmic reticulum calcium store provide specific form of glial excitability. Glial calcium signals ultimately result in vesicular secretion of ‘glio’ transmitters, which affect neuronal networks thus closing the glial‐neuronal circuits. Cellular signalling through calcium ions therefore can be regarded as a molecular mechanism of integration in the nervous system.
Prominent free radicals scavenging activity of tannic acid in lead-induced oxidative stress in experimental mice
Authors: El-Sayed Ibrahim H , Lotfy Mahmoud , El-Khawaga Om-Ali Y , Nasif Wesam A , El-Shahat Mohamed
Published: April 2006

Lead (Pb) is known to disrupt the pro-oxidant/antioxidant balance of tissues leading to biochemical and physiological dysfunction. The present study was designed to investigate the effect of tannic acid on some biochemical parameters in Swiss albino mice exposed to lead acetate. The levels of thiobarbaturic acid-reactive substances (TBARS) as an index of lipid peroxidation, nitric oxide (NO), and serum lead (Pb) were significantly increased following intragastric administration of 50 mmole lead acetate/kg body weight three times a week, every other day for three weeks, compared to the corresponding control values. On the other hand, the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and glutathione content (GSH) and serum copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) were significantly diminished relative to the control values. The administration of 20 mg tannic acid/kg body weight three times a week every other day for three weeks, enhanced the endogenous antioxidant capacity of the cells by increasing the activities of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GSH-R, GST), GSH content and serum Cu and Zn levels. Compared to the lead acetate-exposed group, the levels of TBARS, NO and Pb were decreased in the lead acetate exposed group treated with tannic acid. These results afford evidence supporting the hypothesis that lead induces oxidative stress in hepatic cells. Moreover, tannic acid has a potential in sustaining global antioxidant effect in hepatic cells leading to decreased oxidative stress and cellular damage initiated through free radical production by lead acetate.
Levocarnitine administration in multiple sclerosis patients with immunosuppressive therapy-induced fatigue
Authors: Lebrun C , Alchaar H , Candito M , Bourg V , Chatel M
Published: April 2006

Nutritional factors and comedications are among the postulated causes of fatigue, a highly prevalent symptom in the multiple sclerosis (MS) population, with serious impact on patients’ quality of life. Deficiency of carnitine may play a role by reducing energy production through fatty acid oxidation and numerous MS therapies can induce fatigue syndrome. The aim of this prospective open-labelled study was to collect and study serum carnitine levels in MS patients with and without disease-modifying treatment-induced fatigue syndrome. We investigated whether restoration of the carnitine pool might improve treatment-induced fatigue in MS patients. In our study, there was no statistical difference in fatigue frequency between treated and untreated patients ( P=0.5). Matched to age, gender and treatments, carnitine levels were lower for MS treated patients compared to untreated MS patients ( P<0.05) or controls ( P<0.001). Consecutive patients with low plasma carnitine levels who experienced fatigue were substituted. Treatment consisted of oral levocarnitine, 3-6 g daily. All patients achieved normal plasma carnitine levels. For 63% of patients treated with immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory therapies, oral levocarnitine adjunction decreased fatigue intensity, especially in patients treated with cyclophosphamide and interferon beta.
Secondary myelodysplastic syndrome following long-term treatment with azathioprine in patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Putzki Norman , Knipp Sabine , Ramczykowski T im , Vago Susanne , Germing Ulrich , Diener H. Chr. , Limmroth Volker
Published: April 2006

Azathioprine (Aza) is a widely used immunosuppressive drug in multiple sclerosis (MS) treatment. Recently, the incidence of secondary myelodysplastic syndromes (sMDS) associated with a poor prognosis was found to be elevated in patients treated with Aza for non-malign disorders. Three hundred and seventeen MS patients were retrospectively analysed and complete blood counts were examined for those exposed to Aza. We identified one case of sMDS (cumulative dose 627 g) in a young patient and two further malignancies (cumulative doses 27 g and 54 g) in the Aza group ( n=81; 3.7%). In the non-Aza ( n=236) group, five malignancies (2.1%, P=0.419) were identified. Including our patient, four cases of sMDS after long-term Aza therapy in MS have been reported so far. Cases suggest a time- and dose-dependent risk of sMDS in long-term therapy of MS with Aza. Long-term Aza therapy needs careful monitoring.
A prospective open-label study of glatiramer acetate: over a decade of continuous use in multiple sclerosis patients
Authors: Ford C C , Johnson K P , Lisak R P , Panitch H S , Shifroni G , Wolinsky J S ,   The Copaxone® Study Group
Published: April 2006

A decade of continuous glatiramer acetate (GA) use by relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) patients was evaluated in this ongoing, prospective study, and the neurological status of ‘Withdrawn’ patients was assessed at a 10-year long-term follow-up (LTFU) visit. Modified intention-to-treat (mITT, n=232) patients received ≥ 1 GA dose since 1991; ‘Ongoing’ patients ( n=108) continued in November 2003. Of 124 patients, 50 Withdrawn patients returned for LTFU. Patients were evaluated every six months (EDSS). Mean GA exposure was 6.99, 10.1 and 4.26 years for mITT, Ongoing, and Withdrawn/LTFU patients, respectively. While on GA, mITT relapse rates declined from 1.18/year prestudy to ∼1 relapse/5 years; median time to ≥ 1 EDSS point increase was 8.8 years; mean EDSS change was 0.739±1.66 points; 58% had stable/improved EDSS scores; and 24, 11 and 3% reached EDSS 4, 6 and 8, respectively. For Ongoing patients, EDSS increased 0.509±1.65; 62% were stable/improved; and 24, 8 and 1% reached EDSS 4, 6 and 8, respectively. For Withdrawn patients at 10-year LTFU, EDSS increased 2.249±1.86; 28% were stable/improved; and 68, 50 and 10% reached EDSS 4, 6 and 8, respectively. While on GA nearly all patients (mean disease duration 15 years) remained ambulatory. At LTFU, Withdrawn patients had greater disability than Ongoing patients.
Modelling of multichip LED packages for illumination
Authors: Gaines JM
Published: April 2006

Modelling of the spatial uniformity of the light output from multicolour light emitting diode (LED)-based lamps can be used to evaluate and optimize LED and reflector configurations. The percentage of the output beam that meets or exceeds a user-selected colour accuracy threshold is used as a figure of merit to compare lamp configurations. Results are presented for various distributions of red, green and blue (RGB) or red, amber, green and blue (RAGB) LEDs in a 4 × 4 square matrix. In general, the distributions with highest (4-fold rotational) symmetry have the most uniform output beams. However, those with least uniformity also have 4- fold symmetry, which indicates the importance of choosing the chip layout carefully. The colour uniformity for RAGB configurations is, in general, higher than the colour uniformity for RGB configurations. The colour uniformity at a correlated colour temperature (CCT) of 7000 K is generally higher than the colour uniformity at 3500 K for the LED spectral characteristics investigated.
Stavudine-loaded mannosylated liposomes: in-vitro anti-HIV-I activity, tissue distribution and pharmacokinetics
Authors: Garg Minakshi , Asthana Abhay , Agashe Hrushikesh B , Agrawal Govind Prasad , Jain Narendra Kumar
Published: April 2006

Cells of the mononuclear phagocyte system (MPS) are important hosts for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Lectin receptors, which act as molecular targets for sugar molecules, are found on the surface of these cells of the MPS. Stavudine-loaded mannosylated liposomal formulations were developed for targeting to HIV-infected cells. The mannose-binding protein concanavalin A was employed as model system for the determination of in-vitro ligand-binding capacity. Antiretroviral activity was determined using MT-2 cell line. Haematological changes, tissue distribution and pharmacokinetic studies of free, liposomal and mannosylated liposomal drug were performed following a bolus intravenous injection in Sprague-Dawley rats. The entrapment efficiency of mannosylated liposomes was found to be 47.H ± 1.57%. Protein-carbohydrate interaction has been utilized for the effective delivery of mannosylated formulations. Cellular drug uptake was maximal when mannosylated liposomes were used. MT2 cells treated continuously with uncoated liposomal formulation had p24 levels 8–12 times lower than the level of free drug solution. Further, the mannosylated liposomes have shown p24 levels that were 14–20 and 1.42.3 times lower than the level of free drug and uncoated liposomal formulation treatment, respectively. Similar results were observed when infected MT2 cells were treated overnight. Stavudine, either given plain or incorporated in liposomes, led to development of anaemia and leucocytopenia while mannosylated liposomes overcame these drawbacks. These systems maintained a significant level of stavudine in the liver, spleen and lungs up to 12 h and had greater systemic clearance as compared with free drug or the uncoated liposomal formulation. Mannosylated liposomes have shown potential for the site-specific and ligand-directed delivery systems with desired therapeutics and better pharmacological activity.
Preventive effect of S-allyl cysteine sulfoxide (alliin) on cardiac marker enzymes and lipids in isoproterenol-induced myocardial injury
Authors: Sangeetha T , Quine S Darlin
Published: April 2006

The present study was designed to evaluate the preventive effect of S-allyl cysteine sulfoxide (SACS) in isoproterenol (ISO)-induced myocardial ischaemia in male Wistar rats. Rats were pretreated with SACS (40 and 80 mg kg−1 body-weight) for 5 weeks. After the treatment period, ISO (150 mg kg−1 body-weight) was administered subcutaneously to rats at intervals of 24 h for 2 days. The activities of creatine kinase, creatine kinase-MB, lactate dehydrogenase, aspartate transaminase and alanine transferase were significantly increased in serum and significantly decreased in the hearts of ISO-treated rats. Pretreatment with SACS decreased the activities of these enzymes significantly in serum and significantly increased the activities in heart in ISO-treated rats. The levels of cholesterol, triglycerides and free fatty acids increased in serum and heart, while the levels of phospholipids increased in serum and decreased in heart in ISO-treated rats. SACS pretreatment showed a significant effect on the lipids studied. The activity of 3-hydroxy 3-methyl glutaryl coenzyme A (HMG CoA) reductase was significantly increased and the activity of lecithin cholesterol acyl transferase (LCAT) was significantly reduced in ISO-induced rats. Oral pretreatment with SACS significantly decreased the activity of HMG CoA reductase and significantly increased the activity of LCAT in ISO-induced rats. The levels of plasma thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and hydroperoxides were increased in ISO-treated rats. Pretreatment with SACS significantly decreased the levels of lipidperoxides in ISO-treated rats. The effect at a dose of 80 mg kg−1 body-weight was more effective than at a dose of 40 mg kg−1 body-weight and brought back all the biochemical parameters to near normal levels. Thus our study shows that SACS has a lipid-lowering effect in ISO-induced rats. Our study may have clinical relevance.
Aqueous extract of Yin-Chen-Hao decoction, a traditional Chinese prescription, exerts protective effects on concanavalin A-induced hepatitis in mice through inhibition of NF-kB
Authors: Cai Hui , Song Yao-Hong , Xia Wei-Jun , Jin Miao-Wen
Published: April 2006

In traditional oriental medicine, Yin-Chen-Hao decoction is used for the remedy of liver diseases such as hepatitis, fatty liver, hepatocirrhosis and jaundice. However, despite extensive pharmacological study, the molecular mechanism of the anti-inflammatory effect of Yin-Chen-Hao decoction is poorly understood. In this study, we have investigated the pharmacological action on the mechanism of concanavalin A-induced T cell-dependent hepatitis in mice. Concanavalin A administration resulted in a severe liver injury. This was shown through increased levels of serum transaminase and lactic dehydrogenase, and increased liver DNA fragmentation and caspase-3 activity. Pretreatment with the aqueous extract from Yin-Chen-Hao decoction dose-dependently inhibited the elevation in transaminase and lactic dehydrogenase activity, and reduced liver DNA fragmentation and caspase-3 levels. There was an improvement in histological changes including inflammatory infiltration, hepatocyte necrosis and degeneration, and Kupffer cell hyperplasia. In addition, Yin-Chen-Hao decoction significantly inhibited tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) production in-vitro and in-vivo. Moreover, the activation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB), which regulates TNF-α production, was blocked by Yin-Chen-Hao decoction in-vitro and in-vivo. In conclusion, Yin-Chen-Hao decoction was capable of regulating T-cell-mediated liver injury in-vivo. This event may have depended on the decrease of TNF-α production through the inhibition of NF-kB activation.
The pharmacological potential of Sorbus commixta cortex on blood alcohol concentration and hepatic lipid peroxidation in acute alcohol-treated rats
Authors: Lee Syng-Ook , Lee Hang Woo , Lee In-Seon , Im Hyo Gwon
Published: April 2006

The effect of Sorbus commixta cortex, a traditional herbal medicine used for the treatment of bronchitis, gastritis and dropsy, on blood alcohol concentration (BAC) and hepatic lipid peroxidation was examined in acute alcohol-treated rats. A 30-min pretreatment with a methanol extract of S. commixta cortex (SC) at concentrations higher than 200 mg kg−1 resulted in a significant decrease in BAC and the ethyl acetate fraction (SE) of the extract showed the highest potency, with a maximum of a 46% decrease at 150 mg kg−1 2h after alcohol administration (3.0 g kg−1) compared with the control group (P < 0.005). The rapid reduction in BAC did not appear to be due to the protection or activation of hepatic alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) activity by SE. Hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were significantly increased by acute alcohol administration within 6h, although pretreatment with the SE caused a significant decrease in MDA levels compared with alcohol treatment alone. Hepatic glutathione (GSH) levels and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity remained unchanged by alcohol, SE alone or by the combined treatment of alcohol and SE. However, catalase activity was significantly reduced by acute alcohol administration and pretreatment with the SE led to significant protection of its activity. These results suggest that pretreatment with SE reduces hepatic lipid peroxidation by decreasing the bioavailability of alcohol and its oxidative metabolites, such as H2O2, at least partly, through the protection of hepatic catalase in acute alcohol-treated rats.
Criminal prosecutions for HIV transmission: people living with HIV respond
Authors: Dodds C , Keogh P
Published: April 2006

This paper presents an analysis of responses to the first criminal convictions for HIV transmission in England and Wales within a sample of people living with HIV. These findings represent an important contribution to the development of well-informed prosecution policy. The responses were collected during 20 focused group discussions with a community and web-recruited sample of heterosexual African men and women, and gay and bisexual men ( n = 125) living with diagnosed HIV in London, Manchester and Brighton.

The vast majority (90%) of comments made were critical of the implementation and impact of criminalization. In particular, respondents expressed concern about the way in which criminal convictions conflict with messages about shared responsibility for 'safer sex', and the extent to which such cases will exacerbate existing stigma and discrimination related to HIV. Most felt that the successes achieved by human rights approaches to HIV prevention, treatment, and care were placed under threat by the growing culture of blame encouraged by criminal prosecutions.
Non-chlamydial non-gonococcal urethritis or undiagnosed chlamydial urethritis?
Authors: Manavi K , McMillan A , Young H
Published: April 2006

The aim of this study is to investigate the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STI) in the partners of men with non-chlamydial, non-gonococcal urethritis (NCNGU).

Observational study of the sexual partners of men with NCNGU diagnosed in the Department of Genitourinary Medicine, Edinburgh between 1 June 2002 and 31 December 2003. The diagnosis of chlamydial infection was based on ligase chain reaction (LCx) between June 2002 and March 2003, and on polymerase chain reaction (PCR) thereafter. Gonococcal infection was diagnosed with culture method.

Sexual partners of 99 (25%) of the 403 heterosexual men diagnosed with NCNGU were screened. Chlamydial infection was detected in 19 (19%) of the female sexual partners. Higher proportion of female partners of symptomatic men (15/51) had chlamydial infection compared with that of partners of asymptomatic men (4/48) ( P < 0.005).

NCNGU may be related to false-negative results of chlamydial diagnostic tests. Screening and treatment of sexual partners of men with NCNGU is therefore necessary.
Mycoplasma genitalium is associated with symptomatic urethritis
Authors: Leung A , Eastick K , Haddon L E , Horn C K , Ahuja D , Horner P J
Published: April 2006

In order to further investigate the epidemiology of Mycoplasma genitalium, 680 men attending departments of genitourinary medicine in Bristol, Bath and Truro were studied. M. genitalium was detected in 36 men (5.3%) and was present at all three clinics. Clinically, both urethritis and the presence of a urethral discharge and/or dysuria, but not penile irritation were independently associated with the detection of M. genitalium, the former being with the strongest association (odds ratio [OR] 10.76, 95% confidence interval [CI] [3.10–37.29], P < 0.0001; OR 3.01, 95% CI [1.28–7.05], P = 0.011 and OR 1.28, 95% CI [0.61–2.69], P = 0.51, respectively). In men with urethritis, those with a discharge and/or dysuria were more likely to have M. genitalium detected (OR 2.61, 95% CI [1.09–6.25], P = 0.032). We found no association with younger age or a recent change of sexual partner. In conclusion, M. genitalium is associated with symptomatic urethritis.
Hopelessness at the end of life: The utility of the hopelessness scale with terminally ill cancer patients
Authors: Abbey Jennifer G. , Rosenfeld Barry , Pessin Hayley , Breitbart William
Published: April 2006

Objectives. We sought to investigate the utility of the Beck Hopelessness Scale (HS) in a sample of terminally ill cancer patients by examining the scale properties. Moreover, we sought to identify and remove potentially problematic items in order to ascertain a “purer” index of hopelessness for this population.

Design. A cross‐sectional study of 200 hospice inpatients with a life expectancy of less than 6 months. The HS, as well as several other distress measures, were administered to patients at bedside by trained clinicians.

Methods. An item analysis of the HS was conducted, looking specifically at item endorsement and item‐total correlations. Three abbreviated versions (3‐item 7‐item, 13‐item) were developed based on certain denoted item‐total correlation cut‐offs. Reliability and validity of the original 20‐item HS was then compared to that of the newly developed abbreviated version.

Results. All scales were found to be reliable and valid measures of hopelessness. The three abbreviated versions were more highly correlated with the distress measures than the original version, and the 7‐item and 13‐item subscales outperformed the original HS in the prediction of suicidal ideation and desire for hastened death.

Conclusion. The data suggest that the HS may be improved, when applied to a terminally ill sample, by the elimination of problematic items. The development of a shorter, purer measure of hopelessness for this population is crucial given the need to reduce the burden placed on those who participate in end‐of‐life studies, and the important role of hopelessness in the prediction of suicide and desire for hastened death.
Emotions and respiratory function in asthma: A comparison of findings in everyday life and laboratory
Authors: von Leupoldt Andreas , Ehnes Felix , Dahme Bernhard
Published: April 2006

Objectives. The present study examined the influence of emotions on the respiratory function in asthmatic and non‐asthmatic individuals in everyday life and the relationship to emotion‐induced respiratory changes in the laboratory.

Methods. Affective states were induced in 10 asthmatic and 10 non‐asthmatic participants by viewing affective picture series of either a pleasant, neutral, or unpleasant valence, while airway resistance (Raw) was measured with whole body plethysmography. Following this, individuals measured their mood, forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1), peak expiratory flow (PEF), physical activity, and medication use for 21 days with an electronic diary, which included a respiratory self‐measurement device. Strong pleasant and unpleasant mood episodes were extracted from the diaries and compared with neutral affective states.

Results. Asthmatic patients showed increases of Raw after unpleasant and pleasant emotional stimulation in the laboratory, which was only found after a pleasant stimulation in non‐asthmatic participants. In everyday life, no group differences were obtained. Episodes of strong unpleasant mood states were associated with decreases in PEF, whereas in contrast to the laboratory assessment, pleasant mood was associated with increases in PEF. Results for FEV1 were comparable, but non‐significant. Physical activity and medication use did not vary systematically between affective episodes. PEF showed no significant relationship with Raw.

Conclusions. Unpleasant mood is associated with decreased respiratory function in asthmatic patients in everyday life and in laboratory assessments, whereas effects of pleasant mood states are inconsistent. Pulmonary responses to laboratory‐induced emotional conditions are not predictive of airways reactivity during daily life.
Genetic testing and the relationship between specific and general self‐efficacy
Authors: Hendy Jane , Lyons Evanthia , Breakwell Glynis M.
Published: April 2006

The study examined the extent to which variations in health‐specific self‐efficacy could affect general self‐efficacy. In a repeated measures design, 300 participants were administered an efficacy questionnaire, before and after an alleged news report, aimed at increasing or decreasing self‐efficacy over genetic‐testing decision making. The results found that self‐efficacy over testing was significantly reduced after reading the negative news report in those participants who felt personal efficacy over testing decisions was important. Levels of general self‐efficacy were also significantly decreased. The findings suggest that being denied control over a specific area of self‐efficacy can have a wider impact, with a lack of perceived efficacy over testing decision making adversely impacting on levels of general well‐being. The wider implications of this generalization effect and the processes involved in efficacy generalization are discussed.
Changing Labor Processes of Women's Work: The Haenyo of Jeju Island
Authors: Gwon Gwi-Sook
Published: April 2006

This article delves into the subject of women and work as applied to the female divers (haenyŏ) of Jeju Island in Korea. It supports the development theory critiques about women and confirms Boserup's seminal study. Remarkably, the Jeju haenyŏ have been economically productive in the Confucian culture of Korea, but their labor processes have been conditioned by economic as well as non-economic factors. The article analyzes the effects of gender in the rise and fall of this women's working group. Even though the Jeju haenyŏ have had a relatively higher economic status in the family and community from the colonial period onward, the organization of their production has been closely interrelated with the gendered cultural context. Likewise, the decline of the haenyŏ's diving is associated with the further development of capitalism and the reordered gender division of labor.
DISTRIBUTION DES FLAVONOIDES CHEZ LES CUNONIACÉES
Authors: Jay M.
Published: April 2006

The results of a chemical study concerning 7 species of Cunoniaceae show the heterogeneity of the family. The classical systematic data and chemical features suggest that the Cunoniaceae are closely related to the Saxifragaceae and that the former are austral vicariants of the latter. The relationships of Bauera and Eucryphia to Cunoniaceae is confirmed.
AUGUST WILHELM DENNSTEDT'S SCHLÜSSEL ZUM HORTUS INDICUS MALABARICUS
Authors: Manitz Hermann
Published: April 2006

Details are given of the publication of Dennstedt's Schlüssel giving “Linnaean” names for the taxa described in Rheede tot Draakestein's Hortus indicus malabaricus. Dennstedt's work was published in two editions: in the Fortsetzung des Allgemeinen Teutschen Garten‐Magazins (Oct. and Nov.‐Dec. 1818) and as a separate with independent pagination (Oct. 1818). The nomenclatural evaluation of the new taxa is discussed and lists are given of validly published new combinations and of nomina nuda.
ON NOMENCLATURAL DIALECTICS, OR TWO BLATANTLY DIFFERENT NAMES ARE NOT THE SAME NAME
Authors: Proskauer Johannes
Published: April 2006

Issue is taken with the proposal by McVaugh and Bullock to deprive arbitrarily certain substitute names of their status of valid publication. A proposal is made to correct misuse of the word “orthographic” in the Code.
NOTES ON DIPOGON AND PSOPHOCARPUS (LEGUMINOSAE)
Authors: Verdcourt B.
Published: April 2006

Dolichos lignosus L. (1753) should be assigned to the genus Dipogon Liebm. (1854).

Psophocarpus palustris Desv. is a West African species characterized i.e. by short bracteoles and different from P. scandens (Endl.) Verdc. comb. nov. which occurs throughout tropical Africa and Madagascar.
NOMINA TRANSMUTATA IN PENSTEMON, WITH A PROPOSAL FOR THEIR TREATMENT
Authors: Crosswhite Frank S.
Published: April 2006

In 1753, Linnaeus recognized three species of Chelone in Species Plantarum. The first of these is the type of the genus and does not concern us here. The two remaining species are actually members of the genus Penstemon as here understood. Although Francis W. Pennell designated types for these names in 1935 (Mon. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad. 1: 217, 239), the discussion below attempts to show that the original usage by Linnaeus has not been preserved, and indeed has been switched one with the other. Since such names are empty of meaning, it is proposed that they be rejected as nomina transmutata.
ON NAMES PUBLISHED WITHOUT CLEAR INDICATION OF RANK
Authors: Brummitt R. K. , Chater A. O.
Published: April 2006

A proposal is made to amend Article 35 of the International Code of Botanical Nomenclature dealing with names published without clear indication of rank. Such names published before 1953 should be treated as validly published but inoperative in questions of priority. If taken up later in a definite rank the new name should be regarded as a new combination with the original name as the basionym.
TAXONOMIC PROBLEMS IN THE HETEROBASIDIOMYCETES
Authors: Lowy B.
Published: April 2006

Certain taxonomic problems of long standing within the heterobasidiomycete complex are reviewed and recommendations for a rearrangement in the classification of tremellaceous fungi (sensu lato) are suggested whereby the subclass Heterobasidiomycetidae is modified to exclude the Dacrymycetaceae. A new subclass, Metabasidiomycetidae, is erected and includes the holobasidiaceous Dacrymycetaceae and Ceratobasidiaceae as well as the Tulasnellaceae, the latter embracing such genera asMetabourdotiaandPseudotulasnella, which have incompletely divided basidia. The Ceratobasidiaceae as newly constituted, includes besidesCeratobasidiumthe generaOliveonia, Thanatephorus, andUthatobasidium.
THE CORRECT NAME FOR THE FREYCINETIA OF TAHITI
Authors: Stone Benjamin C.
Published: April 2006

The correct name for the single species of Freycinetia occurring in Tahiti is F. impavida (Gaudichaud ex Hombron) B. C. Stone, comb. nov. based on Victoriperrea impavida Gaudichaud ex Hombron.
TOMENTELLA AND RELATED GENERA IN NORTH AMERICA IV. TAXONOMY AND NOMENCLATURE OF CALDESIELLA
Authors: Larsen Michael J.
Published: April 2006

Caldesiella Sacc. is placed in synonymy with Tomentella Pat. nom. cons. on the basis of past and recently acquired evidence. Three new combinations are proposed, Tomentella crinalis (Fries) M. J. Larsen (= Caldesiella ferruginosa (Fries) Sacc.), Tomentella calcicola (Bourd. & Galz.) M. J. Larsen, and Tomentella italica (Sacc.) M. J. Larsen.
THE GENERIC NAMES PROPOSED FOR HYMENOMYCETES‐V) “Hydnaceae”
Authors: Donk M. A.
Published: April 2006

The present paper deals with the “Hydnaceae,” which are defined in a purely artificial manner.

The typification of Grandinia Fr., Hydnum L. ex Fr., Irpex Fr., Martella Endl., Odontia S. F. Gray, Radulum Fr., Xylodon (Pers.) ex S. F. Gray, and several other names, is discussed at some length and the conclusions submitted for consideration.

Xylodon (Pers.) ex S. F. Gray is reduced to a synonym of Odontia S. F. Gray.

Cerophora Rafin. and Priapus Rafin. are considered synonymous with Lycoperdon Pers. (Gastromycetes), and Radulum Fr. with Eutypa Tul. or Xenotype Petr. (Sphaeriales).
Auriculariaceae, Septobasidiaceae, Tremellaceae, Dacrymycetaceae
Authors: Donk M. A.
Published: April 2006

This eighth part deals with the four families mentioned in the sub‐title and which may be united under the common denomination of hymenomycetous Heterobasidiae.

Seven new combinations are proposed. The name Septobasidium couchi Donk will be validly published.

Ditangium P. Karst. should be retained for the imperfect stage of Craterocolla Bref., the latter name being the correct one for the perfect stage. Achroomyces Bonord. is the correct name for Platygloea J. Schroet.; and Ductifera Lloyd, for Seismosarca Cooke sensu auctt. and Gloeotromera Ervin. Musciclavus Velen. is identified with Eocronartium Atk.

Kriegeria Rabenh. is impriorable, which makes Kriegeria Bres. (Xenogloea H. & P. Syd.) a legitimate name. Tremiscus (Pers.) Lév. is considered validly published and should replace Phlogiotis Quél.

Basidiodendron J. Rick is based on a species, of Tremellaceae.

Xylissus Rafin. might well be a validly published name for Myxomycetes.
WILLIAM ASHBROOK KELLERMAN'S BOTANICAL EXPEDITIONS TO GUATEMALA (1905–1908)
Authors: Lowden Richard M.
Published: April 2006

In 1891 W. A. Kellerman came to The Ohio State University as Professor of Botany, which position he held until his death in Guatemala on March 8, 1908. From January through March of the years 1905 through 1908, Kellerman made four collecting trips to Guatemala on which parasitic fungi and vascular plant material were secured. Prior to the 1908 trip Dr. Keller‐man's Tropical School of Botany was organized with its first session scheduled for the winter of 1908. New taxa were described from Kellerman's Guatemalan collections, of which twenty‐one fungus and forty‐one vascular plant taxa are known. Itineraries and maps were constructed for each trip based predominantly on 1152 specimen labels in The Ohio State University Herbarium. The information from these itineraries will enable herbaria that have inadequately labeled material to supplement specimen labels with pertinent information of either place or date of collection.
BIOSYSTEMATICS AND EVOLUTIONARY NOISE
Authors: Wagner W. H.
Published: April 2006

The main pillars of plant evolution are the populations of normal species — diploid, sexual, and outbreeding. These basic stocks represent the diversity which has resulted from millions of years of phylogenetie change. Hybrids have occasionally appeared, but most have been sterile or ill‐adapted. Polyploids, apomicts, inbreeders, and hybrids arc common today and we have no reason to believe that they did not occur even among early land plants. The fact, however, that normal species with normal life cycles still prevail today strongly indicates that such plants have always been responsible for the primary thrust of evolution. A kind of evolutionary noise is produced through the repeated origin of populations with deleteriously modified life cycles in which the advantages of diploidy, sexuality, outbreeding, and species purity are counteracted or cancelled. Such deviations persist for longer or shorter periods while the normal parental stock continues to evolve.
EVOLUTIONARY PATTERNS AND STRATEGIES IN SEED PLANTS
Authors: Ehrendorfer Friedrich
Published: April 2006

The general evolutionary trend in seed plants from trees to perennial and further to annual herbs is paralleled by changes in evolutionary patterns and strategies, shaped by selection and adaptation. With abbreviated generation sequences we find on the average an increasing rate of structural and dysploid change, more genetic isolation and less hybridization, therefore reduced recombination rates, and more and faster evolutionary divergence, coupled with penetration into less favourable and less stabile habitats of the biosphere. Form patterns and “subpatterns” are conditioned by particular modes of reproduction, ecogeographical position, phases of diversification, stagnation or depletion, etc. There are probably no aspects of differentation and variation, which are not selectively coordinated within the framework of such evolutionary patterns and strategies. It will be an important task for future biosystematics to find out more about this by comparative approach and experimental analysis on our way to a better understanding of evolution.
PATHWAYS AND PATTERNS OF EVOLUTION — A DISCUSSION
Authors: Ornduff Robert
Published: April 2006

Many ‘accepted’ evolutionary principles would benefit by a re‐examination. Rather than focus systematics on interspecific and interpopulation phenomena, the stress should for some time be on intraspecific and intrapopulation problems. Systematists have easily accepted new methodologies, but have been reluctant to assimilate new concepts from sister disciplines. The character and importance of auto‐ versus alloploidy, the possible reversal of polyploidy, the too easily accepted conclusion of genetic isolation between diploids and tetraploids, the assumption that apomixis is an evolutionary dead end are examples of concepts in need of re‐assessment.
ARCHIBACCHARIS PROREPENS IS A SPECIES OF BACCHARIS ‐REDESCRIPTION AND TRANSFER (COMPOSITAE)
Authors: Jackson John D.
Published: April 2006

The study of a 1969 collection of probably the first known pistillate specimens of Archibaccharis prorepens Blake (Compositae) from Guatemala necessitates the transfer of this species to the genus Baccharis as Baccharis prorepens (Blake) Jackson. A redescription as well as morphological, ecological and medicinal notes are included. The chromosome count is reported as n = 9.
FOSSILIZED PRE‐PATOUILLARDIAN TAXONOMY?
Authors: Talbot P. H. B.
Published: April 2006

It is not possible to define a phragmobasidium or a holobasidium rationally without analysing whether the types of septa present in metabasidia and sterigmata are primary or adventitious. The type of septum formed is related to definite cytological changes. The occurrence of adventitious septa in metabasidia and sterigmata is reported in several species. It is not considered possible to use any combination of Patouillard's criteria of the subclasses Heterobasidiomycetes and Homobasidiomycetes to formulate a new classification of Basidiomycotina into mutually exclusive classes; nevertheless, these criteria remain important at lower levels of classification. Lowy's recent classification is not accepted (Lowy, 1968). Two alternative classifications are suggested.
ZUR NOMENKLATUR IN DER GATTUNG AMELANCHIER (ROSACEAE)
Authors: Schroeder F.‐G.
Published: April 2006

In the course of an investigation on several exotic species of Amelanchier naturalized in Europe, it proved to be necessary to make some corrections in the nomenclature. The most important is the establishment of a new name, Amelanchier lamarckii, for a species widely cultivated and often naturalized in the Netherlands and N.W. Germany, which has been confused hitherto with some other species (such as A. canadensis (L.) Med., A. laevis Wieg., or A. confusa Hylander). An extensive discussion of the problems mentioned here is to be found in the publication cited at the end of the article.
THE TYPIFICATION OF THE GENUS FRULLANIA (HEPATICAE)
Authors: Stotler Raymond E.
Published: April 2006

An historical review of the genus Frullania Raddi and discussion of its typification are presented. Frullania tamarisci (L.) Dum. is selected as the type species and a type collection is designated. Thus the proper application of the subgeneric name Frullania is clarified.
THE CHALLENGE OF DIVERSITY
Authors: Mayr Ernst
Published: April 2006

The study of organic diversity poses problems of inventory taking, of origins, and of selective (adaptive) significance. Increasing diversity during evolutionary history has resulted in the origin of spectacular adaptive innovations and the invasion of new adaptive zones. Important new concepts, such as population thinking, were developed by the students of diversity.
DEMYTHOLOGIZING BIOLOGICAL DATA BANKING
Authors: Shetler Stanwyn G.
Published: April 2006

The author asserts that biologists have been quite unrealistic in their predictions of what the computer can do for them in the realm of computerized data banking. With a backdrop of several years of “hands‐on” experience in the Flora North America Program, he analyzes the veritable mythology about data banking that has been fostered unwittingly by the proponents of computer‐based information (data) retrieval systems and challenges biologists and other scientists who are prospective designers of such systems to demythologize computers and data banks. The data bank is not a larger‐than‐life creature of science and technology having vast, McLuhanesque powers to digest information and spew back answers. The myths about the computer lead to unrealistic assumptions and expectations, becoming in time grand delusions and dangerous snares. Four myths are discussed: I. The Myth of the Automatic System, II. The Myth of the User‐Oriented System, III. The Myth of Compatibility, and IV. The Myth of the Liberated Scientist. Under the first myth, six specific fallacies about data banking are discussed, concerning personnel requirements, the flexibility of computer media, and the computer's capacity to facilitate the organization, editing, and publication of data. The computer, it is asserted repeatedly, has a greater potential to enslave than to liberate the scientist. It is concluded that computerized systems are not alternatives for conventional systems of storing and retrieving information (data), but merely extensions or enhancements of such systems. Computers will not substitute for people, nor will automation replace the hand of the expert. The author, even while exposing what he terms data‐banking myths, tries to make plain his own continuing dedication to the computer revolution in systematics as it pertains to information retrieval, but he stresses that this revolution can go forward only on the basis of realities, not on myths.
ORTHOGRAPHY OF NAMES AND EPITHETS: STEMS AND COMPOUND WORDS
Authors: Nicolson Dan H. , Brooks Robert A.
Published: April 2006

Criteria are given for determination of stems of regularly declined nouns and adjectives in Greek or Latin based on knowledge of the nominative and genitive singular forms. Rules and examples are given for regular derivation of the compounding forms from the stems. Revisions are proposed for Article 73 and Recommendation 73G of the International Code of Botanical Nomenclature. A section is included on simple composition of botanical names.
THE GENUS SCHOMBURGKIA A STUDY IN THE HISTORY AND BIBLIOGRAPHY OF PLANT TAXONOMY
Authors: Jones H. G.
Published: April 2006

A synopsis of the historical background of the orchid genusSchomburgkiaLindl., considered largely in terms of the contributions of the five major botanists who described its species. A complete bibliography for the genus is also provided.