bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Integration of Stimulus Dimensions in the Perception of Music
Authors: Prince Jon B.
Published: March 2011

A central aim of cognitive psychology is to explain how we integrate stimulus dimensions into a unified percept, but how the dimensions of pitch and time combine in the perception of music remains a largely unresolved issue. The goal of this study was to test the effect of varying the degree of conformity to dimensional structure in pitch and time (specifically, tonality and metre) on goodness ratings and classifications of melodies. The pitches and durations of melodies were either presented in their original order, as a reordered sequence, or replaced with random elements. Musically trained and untrained participants (24 each) rated melodic goodness, attending selectively to the dimensions of pitch, time, or both. Also, 24 trained participants classified whether or not the melodies were tonal, metric, or both. Pitch and temporal manipulations always influenced responses, but participants successfully emphasized either dimension in accordance with instructions. Effects of pitch and time were mostly independent for selective attention conditions, but more interactive when evaluating both dimensions. When interactions occurred, the effect of either dimension increased as the other dimension conformed more to its original structure. Relative main effect sizes (| pitch η2 – time η2 |) predicted the strength of pitch–time interactions (pitch × time η2); interactions were stronger when main effect sizes were more evenly matched. These results have implications for dimensional integration in several domains. Relative main effect size could serve as an indicator of dimensional salience, such that interactions are more likely when dimensions are equally salient.
What's in a Mask? Information Masking with Forward and Backward Visual Masks
Authors: Davis Chris , Kim Jeesun
Published: March 2011

Three experiments tested how the physical format and information content of forward and backward masks affected the extent of visual pattern masking. This involved using different types of forward and backward masks with target discrimination measured by percentage correct in the first experiment (with a fixed target duration) and by an adaptive threshold procedure in the last two. The rationale behind the manipulation of the content of the masks stemmed from masking theories emphasizing attentional and/or conceptual factors rather than visual ones. Experiment 1 used word masks and showed that masking was reduced (a masking reduction effect) when the forward and backward masks were the same word (although in different case) compared to when the masks were different words. Experiment 2 tested the extent to which a reduction in masking might occur due to the physical similarity between the forward and backward masks by comparing the effect of the same content of the masks in the same versus different case. The result showed a significant reduction in masking for same content masks but no significant effect of case. The last experiment examined whether the reduction in masking effect would be observed with nonword masks—that is, having no high-level representation. No reduction in masking was found from same compared to different nonword masks (Experiment 3). These results support the view that the conscious perception of a rapidly displayed target stimulus is in part determined by high-level perceptual/cognitive factors concerned with masking stimulus grouping and attention.
Determinants of Central Processing Order in Psychological Refractory Period Paradigms: Central Arrival Times, Detection Times, or Preparation?
Authors: Leonhard Tanja , Ulrich Rolf
Published: March 2011

Three psychological refractory period (PRP) experiments were conducted to assess the effect of central arrival times at the bottleneck on task order scheduling. In Experiment 1, a visual first task (plus–minus symbol discrimination) was combined with an auditory second task (left–right tone judgement) in a standard PRP paradigm with constant task order. In Experiment 2, the order of the tasks varied unpredictably. In Experiment 3, visual–auditory dual-task trials were randomly mixed with single-task trials. To dissociate central arrival times from stimulus detection times, the perceptual stage of the visual task was extended using stimulus degradation. Most importantly, no evidence for a first-come, first-served principle at the central bottleneck was found with the employed paradigms. Instead, the results indicated that preparation (Experiment 1) and the detection times of the stimuli (Experiments 2 and 3) were the main determinants of central processing order in the present study. In the light of previous research, the results indicate that central processing order can be influenced by various factors. The interplay between these factors seems to depend highly on the conditions and requirements of the employed experimental paradigm.
Efficient lateral confinement by an oxide aperture in a mid-infrared GaSb-based vertical light-emitting source
Authors: Laaroussi Y , Almuneau G , Sanchez D , Cerutti L
Published: March 2011

The use of lateral oxidation for electrical and optical confinement on a GaSb-based mid-infrared vertical light-emitting diode is demonstrated in this paper. The metamorphic growth of (Al)GaAs above a tunnel junction grown on the GaSb-based resonant-cavity light-emitting diode enables good structural quality of the As-based layers and oxidation of the AlAs embedded film. Oxide-confined devices with emission wavelength around 2.6 µm are demonstrated, with no noticeable degradation from the oxidation thermal treatment. Such an efficient oxide confinement scheme can be applied for the realization of high-performance mid-infrared vertical-cavity lasers.
Computer analysis of thin-film amorphous silicon heterojunction solar cells
Authors: Nawaz Muhammad
Published: March 2011

A two-dimensional numerical computer analysis for thin-film-based hydrogenated amorphous silicon (i.e. a-Si : H) solar cells is presented. A comparative performance assessment for various absorbing layers such as a-Si, a-SiGe, a-SiC, combined a-Si+a-SiGe, a-Si/a-SiGe-graded layers and tandem (tdm) design is shown. The device performance is evaluated by implementing special surface recombination model, thermionic field emission model for transport at the heterojunctions and interface traps model at top and bottom side of the heterojunction interfaces. Single absorber with a graded design gives an efficiency of 10.1% for 800 nm thick multiband absorption. Similarly, tandem design shows an efficiency of 10.4% with a total absorber of thickness of 800 nm at bandgap of 1.75 eV and 1.0 eV for the top a-Si and bottom a-SiGe component cells. Numerical simulations predict improved efficiency for tandem design over large range of band discontinuity and interface trap density. Although comparable, the efficiency performance for graded design (i.e. absorbing layer of a-Si and a-SiGe graded layers) approach is very sensitive to the limited range of band discontinuity and interface trap density available at the heterojunctions.
Chevron-type gate configuration of short channel top-contact organic thin-film transistors for large saturated drain current
Authors: Kim Min-Hoi , Bae Jin-Hyuk , Kim Won-Ho , Keum Chang-Min , Lee Sin-Doo
Published: March 2011

We demonstrate a chevron-type gate configuration of a short channel top-contact organic thin-film transistor (OTFT) showing large saturated drain current with the help of a polymeric edge support. The channel length (L) depends on the geometrical shape of the edge support which can be controlled by thermal treatment. Oblique deposition of Au onto the substrate with the edge support allows a self-defined channel length down to a submicrometre scale. The chevron-type top-contact OTFT with L = 0.8 µm exhibits a drain current per channel width as large as 80 µA mm−1 at the operating voltage of −3 V. The leakage current associated with a gate insulator AlO
x
is systematically investigated in a metal–insulator–metal structure and a metal–insulator–semiconductor–metal structure by varying the O2 plasma treatment and the pentacene thickness. Using the optimized gate insulator AlO
x
, a saturation behaviour of the output characteristic curve, low current leakage and low voltage operation are achieved in our chevron-type OTFT.
Highly graphitized laterally interconnected SWCNT network synthesis via a sandwich-grown method
Authors: Teng I-Ju , Chen Kai-Ling , Hsu Hui-Lin , Jian Sheng-Rui , Wang Li-Chun , Chen Jung-Hsuan , Wang Wei-Hsiang , Kuo Cheng-Tzu
Published: March 2011

We present a sandwich-grown method for growing laterally interconnected single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) networks with a high degree of graphitization by microwave plasma chemical vapour deposition (MPCVD). An Al2O3-supported Fe catalyst precursor layer deposited on an oxidized Si substrate with an upper Si cover is first pretreated in pure hydrogen, and then exposed to a gas mixture of methane/hydrogen for growth process at a lower growth temperature and a faster rate. The effects of various parameters, such as catalyst film thickness, gas flow rate, working pressure, growth time and plasma power, on the morphologies and structural characteristics of the SWCNT networks are investigated, and therefore provide the essential conditions for direct growth of laterally interconnected SWCNT networks. Analytical results demonstrate that the SWCNT-based lateral architecture comprises a mixture of graphene-sheet-wrapped catalyst particles and laterally interconnected nanotubes, isolated or branched or assembled into bundles. The results also show that the formation of the laterally interconnected SWCNT networks is related to the sandwich-like stack approach and the addition of an Al2O3 layer in the MPCVD process. The successful growth of lateral SWCNT networks provides new experimental information for simply and efficiently preparing lateral SWCNTs on unpatterned substrates, and opens a pathway to create network-structured nanotube-based devices.
Tb3+–Er3+ couples as spectral converters in NaYF4 for GaAs solar cells
Authors: Liu Chunxu , Liu Junye , Zhang Jisen , Luo Yongshi , Wang Lijun
Published: March 2011

In order to reduce the thermal loss due to spectral mismatch of solar cell absorption, the quantum cutting with Tb3+–Er3+ couples as spectral converters is experimentally observed. One high-energy ultraviolet photon (Tb3+
7F6 → 5L1) is quantumly cut into two lower energy photons: one in the near-infrared region (Er3+
4I9/2 → 4I15) and the other in the blue region (Tb3+
5D4 → 7F6), both of which can be efficiently absorbed by solar cells. A quantum efficiency, ηQE, of up to 188% is calculated, which is close to the theoretical limit of 200%. The energy mismatch in the energy transfer from Tb3+ (5L1 → 5D4) to Er3+ (4I9/2 → 4I15/2) is 237 cm−1, less than the phonon energy of 400 cm−1 in NaYF4, making the energy transfer nearly resonant. The energy migration among Tb3+ donors is treated approximately by the diffusion model and the initial process of energy transfer among the Tb3+–Er3+ couples is found to be dipole–dipole interactions.
Modelling of tearing mode suppression experiments in TEXTOR based on the generalized Rutherford equation
Authors: Ayten B. , De Lazzari D. , de Baar M.R. , Hennen B.A. , Westerhof E.
Published: March 2011

Modelling of the experiments on TEXTOR on tearing mode suppression by electron cyclotron resonance heating and current drive based on the generalized Rutherford equation (GRE) is presented. The comparison between the model and the experimental data provides a satisfactory agreement taking into account the experimental uncertainties. Both the model and the experimental observations confirm that in TEXTOR heating is the dominant suppression mechanism above that of current drive. As a conclusion, these experiments provide a positive benchmark for the stabilizing term in the GRE arising from the localized heating.
On extremal quasiconformal mappings of non-landslide type
Authors: Jinhua Fan
Published: March 2011

Let

S
=
{
(
x
,
y
)
:
0
>
x
>
1
,
0
>
y
>
1
}

S=\{(x,y): 0>x>1, 0>y>1\}

, and let

f
f

be a quasiconformal mapping on

S
S

. It is proved that there is at least one extremal quasiconformal mapping of non-landslide type in the Teichmüller equivalence class

[
f
]

[f]

. This gives a positive answer to the problem proposed by Z. Li in a recent paper.
Faithful representations of association schemes
Authors: Hanaki Akihide
Published: March 2011

Every character of an association scheme can be considered as a faithful character of some quotient scheme. Also we will show that a faithful character of an association scheme determines a thin closed subset which is cyclic as a finite group.
Vogan duality for nonlinear type B
Authors: Crofts Scott
Published: March 2011

Let

G

=

S
p
i
n

[
4
n
+
1
]

\mathbb {G}=\mathrm {Spin}[4n+1]

be the connected, simply connected complex Lie group of type

B

2
n

B_{2n}

and let

G
=

S
p
i
n

(
p
,
q
)

G=\mathrm {Spin}(p,q)

(
p
+
q
=
4
n
+
1
)

(p+q=4n+1)

denote a (connected) real form. If

q
∉

{
0
,
1
}

q \notin \left \{0,1\right \}

,

G
G

has a nontrivial fundamental group and we denote the corresponding nonalgebraic double cover by

G
~

=

S
p
i
n

~

(
p
,
q
)

\tilde {G}=\widetilde {\mathrm {Spin}}(p,q)

. The main purpose of this paper is to describe a symmetry in the set of genuine parameters for the various

G
~

\tilde {G}

at certain half-integral infinitesimal characters. This symmetry is used to establish a duality of the corresponding generalized Hecke modules and ultimately results in a character multiplicity duality for the genuine characters of

G
~

\tilde {G}

.
Aquaporin 5 Gene Promoter −1364A/C Polymorphism Associated with 30-day Survival in Severe Sepsis
Authors: Adamzik Michael , Frey Ulrich H. , Möhlenkamp Stephan , Scherag André , Waydhas Christian , Marggraf Günther , Dammann Marc , Steinmann Jörg , Siffert Winfried , Peters Jürgen
Published: March 2011

Background

Because the aquaporin (AQP) 5 promoter -1364A/C polymorphism is associated with altered AQP5 expression, this association could have an impact on key mechanisms in sepsis, such as cell migration, activity of the rennin-angiotensin- aldosterone system (RAAS), and water transport across biologic membranes. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that the AQP5 promoter -1364A/C polymorphism is associated with increased 30-day survival in severe sepsis.

Methods

In a prospective study, adults with severe sepsis (N = 154) were genotyped for the AQP5 promoter -1364A/C polymorphism. The clinical endpoint was 30-day survival. Kaplan-Meier plots and multivariate proportional hazard analyses were used to evaluate the relationship between genotypes and clinical outcomes.

Results

Thirty-day survival was significantly associated with AQP5 -1364A/C genotypes (P = 0.001). Survival rates were 57% for AA genotypes (n = 90) but 83% for combined AC/CC genotypes (56 vs. 8, respectively). Multivariate proportional hazard analysis including sex, age, Simplified Acute Physiology Score II, Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score, body mass index, necessity for continuous hemofiltration/dialysis, concentrations of plasma angiotensin II, serum aldosterone, C-reactive protein, and interleukin 6 as covariates revealed the AQP5 -1364A/C polymorphism as a strong and independent prognostic factor for 30-day survival. In this analysis, homozygous AA subjects were at high risk for death within 30 days (hazard ratio, 3.59; 95% CI, 1.47-8.80; P = 0.005) compared with AC/CC genotypes.

Conclusion

The C-allele of the AQP5 -1364A/C polymorphism is associated with increased 30-day survival in patients with severe sepsis. This finding suggests the importance of variations in expression of AQP5 channels in severe sepsis.
Increased Peak Postoperative B-type Natriuretic Peptide Predicts Decreased Longer-term Physical Function after Primary Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery
Authors: Fox Amanda A. , Marcantonio Edward R. , Collard Charles D. , Thoma Mathis , Perry Tjorvi E. , Shernan Stanton K. , Muehlschlegel Jochen D. , Body Simon C.
Published: March 2011

Background

Increased peak postoperative B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) is associated with increased major adverse cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. Whether increased postoperative BNP predicts worse postdischarge physical function (PF) is unknown. We hypothesized that peak postoperative BNP associates with PF assessed up to 2 yr after CABG surgery, even after adjusting for clinical risk factors. including preoperative PF.

Methods

This two-institution prospective cohort study included patients undergoing primary CABG surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass. Short Form-36 questionnaires were administered to subjects preoperatively and 6 months, 1 yr, and 2 yr postoperatively. Short Form-36 PF domain scores were calculated using the Short Form-36 norm-based scoring algorithm. Plasma BNP concentrations measured preoperatively and on postoperative days 1-5 were log(10) transformed before analysis. To determine whether peak postoperative BNP independently predicts PF scores 6 months through 2 yr after CABG surgery, multivariable longitudinal regression analysis of the postoperative PF scores was performed, adjusting for important clinical risk factors.

Results

A total of 845 subjects (mean ± SD age, 65 ± 10 yr) were analyzed. Peak postoperative BNP was significantly associated with postoperative PF (effect estimate for log(10) peak BNP, -7.66 PF score points [95% CI, -9.68 to -5.64]; P = <0.0001). After multivariable adjustments, peak postoperative BNP remained independently associated with postoperative PF (effect estimate for log(10) peak BNP, -3.06 PF score points [95% CI, -5.15 to -0.97]; P = 0.004).

Conclusions

Increased peak postoperative BNP independently associates with worse longer-term PF after primary CABG surgery. Future studies are needed to determine whether medical management targeted toward reducing increased postoperative BNP can improve PF after CABG surgery.
Chronic β Blockade Is Associated with a Better Outcome after Elective Noncardiac Surgery than Acute β Blockade
Authors: Ellenberger Christoph , Tait Gordon , Beattie W. Scott
Published: March 2011

Background

Current guidelines on perioperative care recommend the prophylactic use of β blockers in high-risk patients undergoing noncardiac surgery. However, recent studies show that, in some instances, perioperative β blockade can cause harm. Furthermore, chronic β blockade, titrated to effect before surgery, may be superior to acute perioperative β blockade. The primary objective of this study was to compare major acute cardiac outcomes in patients who underwent surgery with chronic β blocker therapy with those in patients with acute β-blocker therapy.

Methods

Data were collected for 10,691 consecutive patients undergoing elective noncardiac surgery between April 1, 2008, and April 30, 2010. Propensity scores, estimating the probability of receiving a preoperative β blocker, were calculated to match (1:1) the patients with acute and chronic β-blocker therapy. The primary outcome was a composite of myocardial infarction, nonfatal cardiac arrest, and perioperative mortality. The rate of cardiac events was compared in the matched cohorts.

Results

A total of 962 patients were chronically treated with a β blocker before surgery; in 436 patients, the β blocker was administrated acutely. Propensity score matching created 301 patient pairs who were well-balanced for major comorbidities, concomitant drug use, and type of surgery. The primary outcome was observed in 9 (3.0%) chronic versus 24 (8.0%) acute β-blocked patients (relative risk, 2.67; 95% CI, 1.27-5.60; P = 0.011).

Conclusions

Acute β blockade, initiated within the first 2 days after surgery, was associated with worse cardiac outcome compared with a matched cohort of patients who underwent surgery on chronic β blockade. These results should be validated in a larger prospective trial.
Ventilatory Protective Strategies during Thoracic Surgery
Authors: Kozian Alf , Schilling Thomas , Schütze Hartmut , Senturk Mert , Hachenberg Thomas , Hedenstierna Göran
Published: March 2011

Background

The increased tidal volume (V(T)) applied to the ventilated lung during one-lung ventilation (OLV) enhances cyclic alveolar recruitment and mechanical stress. It is unknown whether alveolar recruitment maneuvers (ARMs) and reduced V(T) may influence tidal recruitment and lung density. Therefore, the effects of ARM and OLV with different V(T) on pulmonary gas/tissue distribution are examined.

Methods

Eight anesthetized piglets were mechanically ventilated (V(T) = 10 ml/kg). A defined ARM was applied to the whole lung (40 cm H(2)O for 10 s). Spiral computed tomographic lung scans were acquired before and after ARM. Thereafter, the lungs were separated with an endobronchial blocker. The pigs were randomized to receive OLV in the dependent lung with a V(T) of either 5 or 10 ml/kg. Computed tomography was repeated during and after OLV. The voxels were categorized by density intervals (i.e., atelectasis, poorly aerated, normally aerated, or overaerated). Tidal recruitment was defined as the addition of gas to collapsed lung regions.

Results

The dependent lung contained atelectatic (56 ± 10 ml), poorly aerated (183 ± 10 ml), and normally aerated (187 ± 29 ml) regions before ARM. After ARM, lung volume and aeration increased (426 ± 35 vs. 526 ± 69 ml). Respiratory compliance enhanced, and tidal recruitment decreased (95% vs. 79% of the whole end-expiratory lung volume). OLV with 10 ml/kg further increased aeration (atelectasis, 15 ± 2 ml; poorly aerated, 94 ± 24 ml; normally aerated, 580 ± 98 ml) and tidal recruitment (81% of the dependent lung). OLV with 5 ml/kg did not affect tidal recruitment or lung density distribution. (Data are given as mean ± SD.)

Conclusions

The ARM improves aeration and respiratory mechanics. In contrast to OLV with high V(T), OLV with reduced V(T) does not reinforce tidal recruitment, indicating decreased mechanical stress.
The influence of persistent individual differences and age at maturity on effective population size
Authors: Lee Aline Magdalena , Engen Steinar , Sæther Bernt-Erik
Published: March 2011

Ratios of effective populations size,Ne, to census population size,N, are used as a measure of genetic drift in populations. Several life-history parameters have been shown to affect these ratios, including mating system and age at sexual maturation. Using a stochastic matrix model, we examine how different levels of persistent individual differences in mating success among males may affectNe/N, and how this relates to generation time. Individual differences of this type are shown to cause a lowerNe/Nratio than would be expected when mating is independent among seasons. Examining the way in which age at maturity affectsNe/N, we find that both the direction and magnitude of the effect depends on the survival rate of juveniles in the population. In particular, when maturation is delayed, lowered juvenile survival causes higher levels of genetic drift. In addition, predicted shifts inNe/Nwith changing age at maturity are shown to be dependent on which of the commonly used definitions of census population size,N, is employed. Our results demonstrate that patterns of mating success, as well as juvenile survival probabilities, have substantial effects on rates of genetic drift.
Genomic Analysis of Circadian Clock-, Light-, and Growth-Correlated Genes Reveals PHYTOCHROME-INTERACTING FACTOR5 as a Modulator of Auxin Signaling in Arabidopsis
Authors: Nozue Kazunari , Harmer Stacey L. , Maloof Julin N.
Published: March 2011

Plants exhibit daily rhythms in their growth, providing an ideal system for the study of interactions between environmental stimuli such as light and internal regulators such as the circadian clock. We previously found that two basic loop-helix-loop transcription factors, PHYTOCHROME-INTERACTING FACTOR4 (PIF4) and PIF5, integrate light and circadian clock signaling to generate rhythmic plant growth in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana). Here, we use expression profiling and real-time growth assays to identify growth regulatory networks downstream of PIF4 and PIF5. Genome-wide analysis of light-, clock-, or growth-correlated genes showed significant overlap between the transcriptomes of clock-, light-, and growth-related pathways. Overrepresentation analysis of growth-correlated genes predicted that the auxin and gibberellic acid (GA) hormone pathways both contribute to diurnal growth control. Indeed, lesions of GA biosynthesis genes retarded rhythmic growth. Surprisingly, GA-responsive genes are not enriched among genes regulated by PIF4 and PIF5, whereas auxin pathway and response genes are. Consistent with this finding, the auxin response is more severely affected than the GA response in pif4 pif5 double mutants and in PIF5-overexpressing lines. We conclude that at least two downstream modules participate in diurnal rhythmic hypocotyl growth: PIF4 and/or PIF5 modulation of auxin-related pathways and PIF-independent regulation of the GA pathway.
Comparative evaluation of seed coat dormancy breaking treatments in Stylosanthes seabrana
Authors: Anand A. , Bhardwaj J. , Nagarajan S.
Published: March 2011

The efficiency of microwave treatment in breaking the hard seed coat dormancy in Stylosanthes seabrana was compared with three other conventional methods including mechanical scarification, hot water treatment (100°C for 1 min) and acid scarification (5 min). The microwave treatment was as efficient in breaking hard seed coat dormancy as the hot water treatment. The ranking of treatments followed the order microwave ≥ hot water ≥ acid > mechanical scarification > control. The electrical conductivity of microwave‐treated seeds, although less than that of hot water, was greater than untreated control seeds, indicating increased permeability of the seed coat for water uptake. Seedling vigour, based on seedling length, was also similar for these treatments. Respiration was found to be higher in microwave‐treated seeds. Although levels of food reserves were not measured, future studies could hypothesize that increased imbibition of water in microwave‐treated seeds could cause a faster breakdown of food‐reserve material that is supplied to the germinating seed, resulting in increased evolution of CO2 through respiration. Scanning electron micrographs indicated the appearance of cracks and blisters on the seed surface of microwave‐treated seeds. These are most likely the sites of water entry during imbibition.
Plant and soil responses to nitrogen and phosphorus fertilization of bromegrass‐dominated haylands in Saskatchewan, Canada
Authors: Lkhagvasuren B. , Schoenau J. J. , Anderson D. W. , Malhi S. S.
Published: March 2011

Field experiments were conducted at three different sites in Saskatchewan, Canada (Colonsay, Vanscoy and Rosthern) over two years (2005 and 2006) to determine the effects of dribble‐banded and coulter‐injected liquid fertilizer applied in the spring of 2005 at 56, 112 and 224 kg N ha−1 with and without P at 28 kg P2O5 ha−1. The three sites were unfertilized, 7‐ to 8‐year old stands of mainly meadow bromegrass (Bromus riparius)‐dominated haylands. All fertilization treatments produced significantly (P ≤ 0·05) higher dry matter yield than the control in the year of application at the three Saskatchewan sites. There was no significant difference between the two application methods (surface dribble band vs. coulter injected) for any fertilizer treatments. The addition of 28 kg P2O5 ha−1 P fertilizer along with the N fertilizer did not have a significant effect on yield in most cases. In the year of application, increasing N rates above 56 kg N ha−1 did not significantly increase yield over the 56 kg N ha−1 rate in most cases, but did increase N concentration, N uptake and protein concentration. A significant residual effect was found in the high N‐rate treatments in 2006, with significantly higher yield and N uptake. In 2005, the forage N and P uptake in the fertilized treatments were significantly higher than the control in all cases. The N uptake at the three Saskatchewan sites increased with increasing N rate up to the high rate of 224 kg N ha−1, although the percent recovery of applied N decreased with increasing rate. The P fertilization with 28 kg P2O5 ha−1 also increased P uptake. Overall, rates of fertilizer of approximately 56 kg N ha−1 appear to be sufficient to produce nearly maximum forage yield and protein concentration of the grass in the year of application.
A systematic review of mentoring nursing students in clinical placements
Authors: Jokelainen Merja , Turunen Hannele , Tossavainen Kerttu , Jamookeeah David , Coco Kirsi
Published: March 2011

Aim and objective.  This systematic review describes mentoring of nursing students in clinical placements.

Background.  Mentoring in nursing has been widely investigated, but mentoring among students has remained vague. There is no universal agreement on student mentoring in nursing placements; therefore, mentoring approaches vary. A unified description of student mentoring is needed to ensure the quality of placement learning in nursing organisations.

Design.  Systematic review.

Method.  The data were collected from nursing research articles over 20 years (1986–2006). The articles (n = 23) were analysed using inductive content analysis.

Results.  Mentoring of nursing students in clinical placements was described according to two themes: (1) facilitating nursing students’ learning by creating supportive learning environments and enabling students’ individual learning processes, (2) strengthening students’ professionalism by empowering the development of their professional attributes and identities and enhancing attainment of students’ professional competence in nursing.

Discussion.  This description of student mentoring in nursing clinical placements integrates environmental, collegial, pedagogical and clinical attributes. To ensure effective student mentoring, an individual mutual relationship is important, but also essential is organisation and management to provide adequate resources and systematic preparation for mentors.

Conclusions.  The description of student mentoring needs to be systematically reviewed to reflect changes in nursing and education and compared within related concepts to achieve and maintain a workable description. A clear and systematic strategy for student mentoring in nursing organisations could be one opportunity to enhance recruitment of nursing students to the workforce.

Relevance to clinical practice.  A unified description of student mentoring will help improve the quality of placement learning opportunities and support for students, also for exchange students. A clear description of student mentoring enables the development of systematic provisions for mentoring of nursing students in placements and adequate mentor preparation programmes for nurses.
Direct evidence of surface infestation of seeds and tubers by Plasmodiophora brassicae and quantification of spore loads
Authors: Rennie D. C. , Manolii V. P. , Cao T. , Hwang S. F. , Howard R. J. , Strelkov S. E.
Published: March 2011

Using quantitative PCR, DNA of Plasmodiophora brassicae, the causal agent of clubroot, was detected and quantified on canola, pea and wheat seeds, as well as on potato tubers, all harvested from clubroot‐infested fields in Alberta, Canada. Quantifiable levels of infestation were found on seven of the 46 samples analysed, and ranged from <1·0 × 103 to 3·4 × 104 resting spores per 10 g seeds; the vast majority (80–100%) of resting spores on these samples were viable, as determined by Evan’s blue vital staining. However, the levels of infestation found were generally lower than that required to cause consistent clubroot symptoms in greenhouse plant bioassays. While the occurrence of P. brassicae resting spores on seeds and tubers harvested from clubroot‐infested fields suggests that seedborne dissemination of this pathogen is possible, practices such as commercial seed cleaning may be sufficient to effectively mitigate this risk.
Phylogenetic and morphological identification of Colletotrichum boninense: a novel causal agent of anthracnose in avocado
Authors: Silva‐Rojas H. V. , Ávila‐Quezada G. D.
Published: March 2011

In recent years, anthracnose has become a significant disease affecting avocado fruit in the state of Michoacan, Mexico, where it significantly reduces fruit quality and commercial yield. Anthracnose has been assumed to involve Colletotrichum gloeosporioides and C. acutatum as causal agents. However, because of the increasing incidence of anthracnose, a more precise identification of the Colletotrichum spp. involved in this disease has become desirable. During the years 2004–2007, avocado fruits of different sizes exhibiting brown‐black and reddish spots on the pericarp and soft rot in the mesocarp, were gathered from orchards in nine counties. Fungal isolates were cultured on potato dextrose agar, and among these, 31 were selected for molecular, morphological and pathogenicity analyses. The molecular approaches used sequence typing of the internal transcribed spacer region and the partial nuclear large ribosomal subunit, allowing the unequivocal identification of C. gloeosporioides (71%), C. acutatum (16%) and C. boninense (13%). This last species has not been previously reported as being associated with anthracnose symptoms in avocado fruits anywhere in the world. Various morphological characteristics such as the size and shape of conidia were determined, as well as the conidial mass colour. Pathogenicity tests performed with all three species were conducted by inoculating healthy fruits. In each case, identical symptoms developed within 3 days of inoculation. Knowledge of the Colletotrichum populations in the Michoacan state, including the newly encountered avocado pathogen C. boninense, will facilitate further studies addressing the relationships between these Colletotrichum spp. and their avocado host.
Ancestral expression patterns and evolutionary diversification of YABBY genes in angiosperms
Authors: Yamada Toshihiro , Yokota Shin’ya , Hirayama Yumiko , Imaichi Ryoko , Kato Masahiro , Gasser Charles S.
Published: March 2011

Lateral organ growth in seed plants is controlled in part by members of the YABBY (YAB) and class III homeodomain/leucine zipper (HD‐ZIPIII) families of transcription factors. HD‐ZIPIII genes appear to play a conserved role in such organs, but YAB genes have diversified, with some members of the family having specialized functions in leaves, carpels or ovule integuments. The ancestral expression patterns and timing of divergence of the various classes of YAB genes remain to be established. We isolated and evaluated the expression of one HD‐ZIPIII and five YAB genes representing the five major YAB gene classes from Cabomba caroliniana, a member of the earliest‐diverging angiosperms. Consistent with observations in eudicots, the FILAMENTOUS FLOWER (FIL) and YABBY5 (YAB5) genes of C. caroliniana were expressed in the abaxial regions of the leaf where new laminar segments arise, and the patterns of expression were mutually exclusive to those of HD‐ZIPIII, indicating that these expression patterns are ancestral. Expression of CRABS CLAW (CRC) in the abaxial carpel wall, and of INNER NO OUTER (INO) in the abaxial outer integument of ovules was also conserved between eudicots and C. caroliniana, indicating that these patterns are primitive. However, the CRC gene was also expressed in other floral organs in C. caroliniana, and expression in stamens was also observed in another early‐diverging species, Amborella trichopoda, indicating that carpel‐specific expression was acquired after divergence of the Nymphaeales. The expression data and phylogeny for YAB genes suggest that the ancestral YAB gene was expressed in proliferating tissues of lateral organs.
CUP‐SHAPED COTYLEDON1 transcription factor activates the expression of LSH4 and LSH3, two members of the ALOG gene family, in shoot organ boundary cells
Authors: Takeda Seiji , Hanano Keiko , Kariya Ayano , Shimizu Satoko , Zhao Li , Matsui Minami , Tasaka Masao , Aida Mitsuhiro
Published: March 2011

The establishment of organ boundaries is a fundamental process for proper morphogenesis in multicellular organisms. In plants, the shoot meristem repetitively forms organ primordia from its periphery, and boundary cells are generated between them to separate their cellular fates. The genes CUP‐SHAPED COTYLEDON1 (CUC1) and CUC2, which encode plant‐specific NAC transcription factors, play central roles in establishment of the shoot organ boundaries in Arabidopsis thaliana. Here we show that CUC1 protein activates expression of LIGHT‐DEPENDENT SHORT HYPOCOTYLS 4 (LSH4) and its homolog LSH3 in shoot organ boundary cells. Both genes encode nuclear proteins of the Arabidopsis LSH1 and Oryza G1 (ALOG) family, the members of which are widely conserved in land plants. Expression of LSH4 and LSH3 is detected in the boundary cells of various shoot organs, such as cotyledons, leaves and floral organs, and requires the activity of CUC1 and CUC2. Experiments using the glucocorticoid receptor system indicate that transcription of LSH4 and LSH3 is directly up‐regulated by CUC1. Constitutive expression of LSH4 in the shoot apex causes inhibition of leaf growth in the vegetative phase, and formation of extra shoots or shoot organs within a flower in the reproductive phase. Together, our results indicate that CUC1 directly activates transcription of the nuclear factor genes LSH4 and LSH3, which may suppress organ differentiation in the boundary region.
Quality of life of dogs with skin disease and of their owners. Part 2: administration of a questionnaire in various skin diseases and correlation to efficacy of therapy
Authors: Noli Chiara , Colombo Silvia , Cornegliani Luisa , Ghibaudo Giovanni , Persico Paola , Vercelli Antonella , Galzerano Mario
Published: March 2011

A previously validated 15‐item questionnaire on dogs’ life quality (QoL1) and that of their owners (QoL2) was applied in a multicentre study to owners of 200 dogs with different dermatological conditions, together with a question on the owner‐perceived disease severity (S). Factor analysis was applied to the whole questionnaire. The correlation of S with QoL1 and QoL2 scores was evaluated using Spearman’s rank correlation tests. Owner sex, age, educational level and willingness to pay for a potential definitive cure of the disease were recorded, and compared with quality of life (QoL) scores. In 23 atopic dogs, CADESI‐03, pruritus Visual Analogue Scale and QoL scores were obtained before and after therapy, and their correlation was evaluated with linear regression. Factor analysis revealed that three factors (S, QoL1 and QoL2) explained 75% of the variance. Owner‐perceived severity correlated significantly with QoL1 and QoL2 (P = 0.002 and P = 0.015, respectively). The five diseases with the worst QoL scores were scabies, pododermatitis, complicated atopic dermatitis, pemphigus foliaceus and endocrine alopecia. Pruritic diseases did not give significantly higher QoL1 or QoL2 scores compared with nonpruritic diseases (P = 0.19, Kruskall–Wallis test). Owner sex, age or educational level did not influence QoL scores. Female sex, a younger age and a higher educational level were significantly associated with more willingness to pay. In atopic dogs, all the scores decreased after therapy, but post‐treatment CADESI‐03 and Visual Analogue Scale scores did not correlate with QoL1 and QoL2. Questions related to the burden of maintenance therapy showed the lowest improvements in score.
A severely immunocompromised child with uncomplicated oseltamivir‐resistant 2009 H1N1 pandemic influenza infection
Authors: Hyle Emily P. , Shu Bo , Lindstrom Stephen , Klimov Alexander , Hancock Kathy , Ferraro Mary J. , Traum Avram Z. , Michelow Ian C.
Published: March 2011

Hyle EP, Shu B, Lindstrom S, Klimov A, Hancock K, Ferraro MJ, Traum AZ, Michelow IC. A severely immunocompromised child with uncomplicated oseltamivir‐resistant 2009 H1N1 pandemic influenza infection.

Abstract:  2009 H1N1 pandemic influenza was associated with increased risk for severe disease in children and the immunosuppressed. We report a case of uncomplicated pneumonia because of infection with oseltamivir‐resistant 2009 H1N1 virus in an immunosuppressed pediatric renal transplant patient. Innate immunity and/or altered viral fitness may be responsible for the mild clinical phenotype of the case.
Angiolymphoid hyperplasia with eosinophilia and Kimura's disease coexisting in the same patient: Evidence for a spectrum of disease
Authors: Liu Xiao‐Kun , Ren Jun , Wang Xiao‐Hui , Li Xin‐Sheng , Zhang Hai‐Ping , Zeng Kang
Published: March 2011

The relationship between angiolymphoid hyperplasia with eosinophilia (ALHE) and Kimura's disease has always been contentious. Initially, ALHE and Kimura's disease were thought to be conditions within the same disease spectrum, but it is now widely accepted that they are two separate disease entities. The two lesions may coexist in one patient. Thus, ALHE and Kimura's disease may be different manifestations of the one disease.
Health‐related quality of life and its promotion among multiple sclerosis patients in Finland
Authors: Heiskanen Satu , Vickrey Barbara , Pietilä Anna‐Maija
Published: March 2011

Heiskanen S, Vickrey B, Pietilä A‐M. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2011; 17: 187–194

Health‐related quality of life and its promotion among multiple sclerosis patients in Finland

The aim of this study was to measure the health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) of Finnish multiple sclerosis (MS) patients and importance and adequacy of existing psychosocial services as reported by MS patients. Data were collected with a structured questionnaire of 100 adults in Finland diagnosed with MS 2–4 years earlier. Response rate was 81%. The data were analysed using statistical analyses. Results show the need for psychosocial support related significant reduction in HRQOL at an early stage of MS. In addition, results indicated considerable gaps between MS patients' perceptions of the importance and perceived adequacy of support.
Influences on parents' decisions when determining whether their child is sick and what they do about it: A pilot study
Authors: Winskill Rhonda , Keatinge Diana , Hancock Stephen
Published: March 2011

Winskill R, Keatinge D, Hancock S. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2011; 17: 126–132

Influences on parents' decisions when determining whether their child is sick and what they do about it: A pilot study

Parents frequently find it difficult to decide whether their child is sick, how sick their child is, and if and when they should seek medical advice. The presence of fever appears to be one influence, less is known about other behaviours, signs and symptoms which might guide parents' decisions. This exploratory descriptive pilot study aimed to gain an understanding of the factors parents monitor when determining if their previously well child is becoming unwell and how they respond to their child's developing acute illness. Twenty‐five parents participated in the study. The findings indentified parents frequently focus on deviations from normal behaviour and other signs and symptoms, not just fever. Parents are capable of assessing and identifying illness and its severity and should be credited for appropriate use of the emergency department because they appear to make every effort to consult their general practitioner first.
Needlestick and sharps injuries among Turkish nursing students: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Irmak Zohre , Baybuga Media S.
Published: March 2011

Irmak Z, Baybuga MS. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2011; 17: 151–157

Needlestick and sharps injuries among Turkish nursing students: A cross‐sectional study

This cross‐sectional study was performed to investigate the prevalence of and other factors associated with needlestick and sharps injuries (NSIs) among nursing students in Turkey. A total of 60 (19.4%) nursing students reported NSIs during the past 1 year. The most common item causing injury was from a syringe needle (54.0%). Among nursing students, giving intravenous/intramuscular injections (60.0%) was the most common cause of NSIs. In total, 31.7% were not using gloves when injured. A total of 68.3% of NSIs were said to have gone unreported in any official report. A total of 43.5% of the nursing students had not received the hepatitis B vaccine. Finally, no single sociodemographic variables were shown to be significant as a risk factor for needlestick and sharps injury during logistic regression analysis. To decrease NSIs among nursing students, an education programme related to NSIs and standard precautions must be provided and immunized against hepatitis B before beginning clinical practice.
The prevalence of overweight and obesity in primary schoolchildren and its correlation with sociodemographic factors in Aydin, Turkey
Authors: Çalışır Hüsniye , Karaçam Zekiye
Published: March 2011

Çalışır H, Karaçam Z. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2011; 17: 166–173

The prevalence of overweight and obesity in primary schoolchildren and its correlation with sociodemographic factors in Aydin, Turkey

The purpose of the study was to determine the correlation of the prevalence of overweight and obesity among children in primary schools of central Aydın province with certain sociodemographic characteristics and the prevalence of overweight and obesity in the children's families. The study was cross‐sectional and descriptive, and was done with 460 children aged 8–11 years. Study data were collected using a questionnaire. The study determined the children's overweight prevalence as 12.8% and their obesity prevalence as 13.7%. It was found that having a family with four or fewer members increased the risk of overweight and obesity (odds ratio (OR) = 1.889; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.086–3.287), that the mother's education level of secondary school or less decreased the risk of overweight and obesity of children (OR = 0.458; CI = 0.268–0.780), and that the greater the mother's (OR = 1.069; CI = 1.008–1.133) and father's (OR = 1.127; CI = 1.049–1.210) body mass index, the more pronounced was the children's risk of being overweight. This study showed that the prevalence of overweight (12.8%) and obesity (13.7%) is high among children aged 8–11 years, and that this condition is correlated with the number of family members and the parents' body mass index.
The factors that influence nurses' use of physical restraint: A thematic literature review
Authors: Lane Chelsi , Harrington Ann
Published: March 2011

Lane C, Harrington A. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2011; 17: 195–204

The factors that influence nurses' use of physical restraint: A thematic literature review

Difficult clinical situations in both hospitals and aged care facilities might lead to the use of physical restraint on older people. This literature reviewed aimed to identify the factors that influence nurses' use of physical restraint on people aged over 60 years. The prevalence of restraint use in aged care facilities was shown to be between 12% and 47%, with 7% to 17% for hospitalized patients. Database searches retrieved studies published after 1992 that highlighted nurses' use of physical restraint on older people in both acute and aged care settings. The analysis revealed two reasons for decisions to use physical restraint that were categorized as ‘patient safety’ and ‘nurses' workload’. It is important for nurses to understand the nursing culture that perpetuates restraint use, and to consider patient‐centred nursing as an instigator for change.