bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The views of UK family business owners on flotation
Authors: Poutziouris Panikkos , Wang Yong
Published: March 2004

This empirical research paper draws evidence from a database of UK independent private companies (n=250) and reports on the financial aspirations of owner‐managers of family firms with respect to the flotation route. Following a brief review of the literature, the paper proceeds with an introduction of the UK survey into the financial development of private SMEs. Then evidence is presented on the perceived factors that influence the decision of owner/directors of family companies to consider the flotation option. Phase A employs univariate statistical analysis to contrast financial philosophies of the owner‐managing directors (OMDs) of family firms against those of their mainstream private counterparts. Phase B employs cluster analysis to categorise sample family companies into four generic groups that evidently highlight that the PLC route is not always tailored to financial issues. The empirical results demonstrate that the financial strategies of family companies are more or less in line with the behavioural issues shaping all private companies irrespective of family control. Finally, the paper concludes with a set of tentative policy implications. To encourage the public equity development of smaller privately held companies, particularly family firms, there is scope for more policy initiatives that are tuned to the “socio‐behavioural‐cultural” ethos of private‐OMDs as they master their corporate and entrepreneurial odyssey.
Determining retail buyers' negotiation willingness for automatic replenishment programs
Authors: Dandeo Lisa M. , Fiorito Susan S. , Giunipero Larry , Pearcy Dawn H.
Published: March 2004

The purpose of this study was to empirically evaluate a modified version of Sheth's model (1981) of buying behavior, in order to determine retail buyers’ willingness to trade off on negotiation variables when placing items on automatic replenishment (AR). A total of 103 usable questionnaires were returned from corporate buyers from five major department store chains located throughout the USA, yielding a 41 percent response rate. Multiple regression analysis indicated that the modified portion of Sheth's model used in this study was satisfactory in exploring relationships that exist between buyers and vendors when determining what products can be placed on AR. The model was significant and respectable in explanatory power, and the significant or highly related variables were: merchandise driven mentality; price/value; color; design; and type of merchandise category. These were all significant or highly related to the buyer's willingness to trade off on the negotiation variables (price, packaging, delivery and assortment). Future research is needed to explore the development of a model that explains the process and decision criteria for successful AR programs.
Scottish dress, ethnicity, and self‐identity
Authors: Crane Tara Christopher , Hamilton Jean A. , Wilson Laurel E.
Published: March 2004

This research focuses on the ways in which individuals play out their Scottish ethnic feelings and on the role of dress in this process. Using the grounded theory approach, participants defining themselves as ethnically Scottish were interviewed for this study. The findings indicate that respondents vary greatly in the emphasis they place on Scottish ethnicity when defining their self‐identities. Additionally, respondents differ in the degree to which they feel complete in their Scottish identity. Those who find their Scottish ethnicity to be salient to their definition of self put more effort into the construction of that identity. Oftentimes, ethnic dress symbols play a prominent role in this construction process – the importance of dress diminishes as feelings of identity completeness increases.
Definitive Diagnosis of Cor Triatriatum with Common Atrium by Three‐Dimensional Transesophageal Echocardiography in an Adult
Authors: Baweja Gurpreet , Nanda Navin C. , Kirklin James K.
Published: March 2004

We describe an adult patient, in whom three‐dimensional transesophageal echocardiography was able to make a definitive diagnosis of cor triatriatum associated with common atrium. The lesion mimicked a classical partial atrio‐ventricular septal defect on both transthoracic and transesophageal two‐dimensional echocardiography. We found only two cases in the literature describing the existence of cor triatriatum with common atrium, none diagnosed by echocardiography. (ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY, Volume 21, April 2004)
Right Atrial Papillary Elastoma: An Uncommon Location
Authors: Singh Harprabhjit , Alam Mohsin , Schwartz David , Martin James R.
Published: March 2004

We present a patient with a right atrial mass, which was detected by transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography. The patient was asymptomatic on presentation. The mass was subsequently confirmed by gross and microscopic examination to be a papillary fibroelastoma. To the best of our knowledge this is only the fourth such report of this tumor in this location. (ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY, Volume 21, April 2004)
Modelling the species richness distribution for French Aphodiidae (Coleoptera, Scarabaeoidea)
Authors: Lobo Jorge M. , Jay‐Robert Pierre , Lumaret Jean‐Pierre
Published: March 2004

The species richness distribution of the French Aphodiidae was predicted using Generalized Linear Models to relate the number of species to spatial, topographic and climate variables. The entire French territory was studied, divided into 301 0.72×0.36 degree grid squares; the model was developed using 66 grid squares previously identified as well sampled. After eliminating nine outliers, the final model accounted for 74.8% of total deviance with a mean Jackknife predictive error of 10.5%. Three richest areas could be distinguished: the western head (Brittany), southwestern France, and, to a lesser extent, the northeastern region. Sampling effort should now be focused on the western head, where no square was correctly sampled, and on southwestern France, which was recognised as a diversity hotspot, both for Aphodiidae and for Scarabaeidae. The largest fraction of variability (37%) in the number of species was accounted for by the combined effect of the three groups of explanatory variables. After controlling for the effect of significant climate and topographic variables, spatial variables still explain 27% of variation in species richness, suggesting the existence of a spatial pattern in the distribution of species richness (greater diversity in western France) that can not be explained by the environmental variables considered here. We hypothesize that this longitudinal spatial pattern is due to the relevance of a western colonization pathway along the glacial‐interglacial cycles, as well as by the barrier effect played by the Alps.
Effects of restricting environmental range of data to project current and future species distributions
Authors: Thuiller Wilfried , Brotons Lluis , Araújo Miguel B. , Lavorel Sandra
Published: March 2004

We examine the consequences of restricting the range of environmental conditions over which niche‐based models are developed to project potential future distributions of three selected European tree species to assess first, the importance of removing absences beyond species known distributions (“naughty noughts”) and second the importance of capturing the full environmental range of species. We found that restricting the environmental range of data strongly influenced the estimation of response curves, especially towards upper and lower ends of environmental ranges. This induces changes in the probability values towards upper and lower environmental boundaries, leading to more conservative scenarios in terms of changes in distribution projections.

Using restricted data analogous to not capturing the fun species’ environmental range, reduces strongly the combinations of environmental conditions under which the models are calibrated, and reduces the applicability of the models for predictive purposes. This may generate unpredictable effects on the tails of the species response curves, yielding spurious projections into the future provided that probability of occurrence is not set to zero outside the environmental limits of the species. Indeed, as the restricted data does not capture the whole of the response curve, projections of future species distributions based of ecological niche modelling may be only valid if niche models are able to approach the complete response curve of environmental predictors.
Effects of habitat complexity on ant assemblages
Authors: Lassau Scott A. , Hochuli Dieter F.
Published: March 2004

We investigated responses of ant communities to habitat complexity, with the aim of assessing complexity as a useful surrogate for ant species diversity. We used pitfall traps to sample ants at twenty‐eight sites, fourteen each of low and high habitat complexity, spread over ca 12 km in Sydney sandstone ridge‐top woodland in Australia. Ant species richness was higher in low complexity areas, and negatively associated with ground herb cover, tree canopy cover, soil moisture and leaf litter. Ant community composition was affected by habitat complexity, with morphospecies from the genera Monomorium, Rhytidoponera and Meranoplus being the most significant contributors to compositional differences. Functional group responses to anthropogenic disturbance may be facilitated by local changes in habitat complexity. Habitat complexity, measured as a function of differences in multiple strata in forests, may be of great worth as a surrogate for the diversity of a range of arthropod groups including ants.
Population structure and adult plant performance of forest herbs in three contrasting habitats
Authors: Endels Patrick , Adriaens Dries , Verheyen Kris , Hermy Martin
Published: March 2004

In Flanders, forests have been subjected to subsequent periods of reclamation and reforestation, leading to a mosaic of forest patches of various ages and with different abiotic conditions, depending on the duration and intensity of the past agricultural activities. While extensive research has been done on the relative importance of dispersal limitation and establishment limitation in explaining colonization patterns of so‐called ancient forest plant species, little is known about the viability of populations of these species once they have colonized recent forests. Therefore, a comparative study on population structure and plant performance was carried out for three forest plant species with different colonization capacity (Primula elatior, Geum urbanum and Arum maculatum) in three different habitat types: ancient forests, recently established forests and small landscape elements (hedgerows). Contrary to the expectation, it was shown that adult plant performance – a combination of vegetative as well as reproductive characteristics – of the three species was generally higher in recent forests and small landscape elements. This also led to higher seedling densities and proportions in these habitat types. Adult densities, however, were extremely low in newly established forests, suggesting reduced seedling and juvenile survival under these circumstances, probably due to higher light availability and hence increased competition from species like Urtica dioica. Although there might be no immediate establishment limitation, installing a shrub layer in recent forests might enhance survival and result in a stable population structure. Hedgerows on the other hand seemed to contain viable populations of certain forest plant species and can therefore function as an important colonization source when incorporated in recently established forests.
Patterns of resource tracking by avian frugivores at multiple spatial scales: two case studies on discordance among scales
Authors: García Daniel , Ortiz‐Pulido Raúl
Published: March 2004

Scaling is relevant for the analysis of plant‐frugivore interaction, since the ecological and evolutionary outcomes of seed dispersal depend on the spatial and temporal scale at which frugivory patterns emerge. We analyse the relationship between fruit abundance and frugivore activity at local and landscape spatial scales in two different systems composed, respectively, by the bird‐dispersed woody plantsJuniperus communisandBursera fagaroides, and their frugivore assemblages. We use a hierarchical approach of nested patchiness of fruit‐resource, where patches are defined by individual plants within site, at the local scale, and by sites within region, at the landscape scale. The structure of patches is also described in terms of contrast (differences in fruit availability among patches) and aggregation (spatial distribution of patches). ForJ. communis, frugivore activity was positively related to fruit availability at the landscape scale, this pattern seldom emerging at the local scale; conversely,B. fagaroidesshowed a general trend of positive local pattern that disappeared at the landscape scale. These particular trends might be partially explained by differences in contrast and aggregation. The strong contrast among plants within site together with a high aggregation among sites would promote theB. fagaroidespattern to be only local, whereas inJ. communis, low aggregation among sites within region would favour a sharp landscape‐scale pattern. Both systems showed discordant patterns of fruit‐resource tracking among consecutive spatial scales, but the sense of discordance differed among systems. These results, and the available multi‐scale frugivory data, suggest that discordance among successive scales allows to link directly frugivory patterns to resource‐tracking mechanisms acting at particular scales, resulting, thus, more informative than concordance observational data, in which landscape patterns might result from accumulated effect of local mechanisms. In this context, we propose new methodological approaches for a better understanding of the hierarchical behavioural mechanisms underpinning the multi‐scale resource tracking by frugivores.
Conservation of DNA methylation in dipteran insects
Authors: Marhold J. , Rothe N. , Pauli A. , Mund C. , Kuehle K. , Brueckner B. , Lyko F.
Published: March 2004

DNA methylation is a central mechanism of epigenetic regulation. Whereas vertebrate DNA methylation requires at least four different DNA methyltransferases,Drosophila melanogasteronly utilizes a single, Dnmt2‐like enzyme. This profound difference has raised the question of the evolutionary significance of theDrosophilamethylation system. We have now identified Dnmt2‐like open reading frames in the genome sequences ofDrosophila pseudoobscuraandAnopheles gambiae. These genes represent the only candidate DNA methyltransferases in their respective genomes. Consistent with a catalytic activity of Dnmt2 proteins, we could also demonstrate low but significant levels of DNA methylation in genomic DNA from these species. Lastly, we were also able to detect highly conserved Dnmt2‐like open reading frames and concomitant DNA methylation in several additionalDrosophilaspecies, which suggests that Dnmt2‐mediated DNA methylation has been conserved over a considerable evolutionary distance.
Diversity, distribution and specificity of WO phage infection in Wolbachia of four insect species
Authors: Gavotte L. , Vavre F. , Henri H. , Ravallec M. , Stouthamer R. , Boulétreau M.
Published: March 2004

The bacteriophage WO was recently characterized in Wolbachia, a strictly intracellular bacterium that causes several reproductive alterations in its arthropod hosts. To gain insights into the phage–Wolbachia relationships, we studied the phage presence among Wolbachia infecting four insect species sharing several Wolbachia strains, two Drosophila and two of their parasitoid wasps. Based on the phage sequence of ORF7, we identified five different phages in six Wolbachia strains. Among these five bacteriophages, some are specific for a given bacterial strain whereas others are not, but globally phage infection appears stable on a large geographical scale and across insect generations. Their specificity contrasts with the absence of congruence between Wolbachia and phage phylogenies, suggesting phage exchanges between different Wolbachia lineages.
Testing biennialism in the butterfly Erebia palarica (Nymphalidae: Satyrinae) by mtDNA sequencing
Authors: Vila M. , Björklund M.
Published: March 2004

The montane butterfly Erebia palarica has an unconfirmed life‐cycle length. The genus Erebia shows variability in length of diapause depending on latitude and altitude, which may lead to allochronic differentiation. To test for biennialism and possible asynchronous differentiation, we sequenced the most variable fragments of the mitochondrial control region and the cytochrome oxidase I in forty individuals from the same population, from two consecutive years. No differentiation between cohorts could be detected and therefore the idea of a current annual cycle is supported. We conclude that a biennial cycle may never have been important in this population and we further discuss adaptive strategies this species may have used to confront colder climates.
cDNA cloning and transcriptional regulation of the vitellogenin receptor from the imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta Buren (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)
Authors: Chen M.‐E. , Lewis D. K. , Keeley L. L. , Pietrantonio P. V.
Published: March 2004

We describe the cloning of the first hymenopteran vitellogenin receptor (VgR) cDNA from the imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta, an invasive pest. Using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and rapid amplification of cDNA ends, fragments encompassing the entire coding region of a putative VgR were cloned and sequenced. The complete 5764 bp cDNA encodes a 1782 residue protein with a predicted molecular mass of 201.3 kDa (=SiVgR). Northern blot analysis demonstrated that the 7.4 kb SiVgR transcript was present only in ovaries of reproductive females (virgin alates and queens). The temporal profile of transcriptional expression showed that SiVgR mRNA increased with age in virgin alate females and that this was up‐regulated by methoprene, a juvenile hormone (JH) analogue. This suggests that the SiVgR gene is JH regulated.
Are Rural People Getting HeartSmart?
Authors: Aoun Samar , Rosenberg Michael
Published: March 2004

Objective:  This study evaluates the impact of a cardiac rehabilitation program (HeartSmart) in a rural area on the quality of life, dietary behaviour, weight loss and physical activity participation of patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD) or at high risk of CVD.

Design:  The evaluation of the program consisted of a single group pre and post‐test design with follow‐up at 3, 6 and 12 months after program completion, complemented with a cross‐sectional survey of non‐participants as a pseudo comparison group.

Setting:  The HeartSmart program is a hospital‐based cardiac rehabilitation program in Bunbury, a regional centre of Western Australia.

Subjects:  A total of 203 participants and 159 non‐participants.

Interventions:  The program consisted of 7 weeks of education and exercise sessions.

Results:  The program had a high rate of completion (92%). Evaluation results suggested that HeartSmart participants demonstrated significant improvements in quality of life, compliance with medication, dietary behaviour, weight loss and physical activity participation. The largest changes were mostly observed between pre and post‐program stages, with sustained behaviour change at 6 months after the completion of the program. Further evidence of the HeartSmart benefits was provided through significantly better health‐related behaviour, confidence to diet and exercise, dietary fat intake, cardiac knowledge and quality of life scores among HeartSmart participants compared with non‐participants.

Conclusions:  While this program has achieved its objectives, there are a few issues that need to be considered by similar programs: the post‐program stage of patient follow‐up by general practitioners; the geographical disadvantage of those living outside regional centres to access the service; enhancing the primary prevention aspect of the program; adapting the program to the needs of Aboriginal clients; facilitating evaluations by resourcing and training program staff in computer skills.

What is already known on this subject?: The viability of establishing cardiac rehabilitation programs in rural Australia has been questioned and few if any have been formally evaluated, particularly using a follow‐up design and a control group.

What this paper adds:  This study ascertains the benefits of secondary prevention programs in rural areas not only on the quality of life but also shows positive outcomes in lifestyle modification for program participants compared to non‐participants. The lessons learnt can improve the effectiveness of similar prevention programs.
Is Rural Medicine A Separate Discipline?
Authors: Smith Janie , Hays Richard
Published: March 2004

Background:  The Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine was established in 1997 to meet what rural doctors perceived as their unmet educational and professional needs. However, the issue of just how different rural practice is from urban practice remains a topic of debate.

Methods:  This paper explores the scope of rural medical practice, through the use of clinical scenarios and a synthesis of the research literature, to determine if rural medical practice is emerging as a distinct discipline in Australia.

Conclusion:   Rural and remote medical practice is different, and additional, to urban practice, in the context, content and process of care. Three of the four criteria for determining rural medical practice as a distinct discipline exist in Australia. The fourth criteria: sufficient external recognition of rural medicine as a distinct discipline, awaits resolution.

What this paper adds:  This paper examines a key issue that has been a source of conflict between the relevant stakeholders for a decade. By placing the differences between rural and urban medical practice within a framework, supported by published work, this paper describes what is required to justify rural medical practice as a distinct discipline for the first time.
Impact of Agricultural Land‐use Change on Carbon Storage in Boreal Alaska
Authors: Grünzweig José M. , Sparrow Stephen D. , Yakir Dan , Stuart Chapin F.
Published: March 2004

Climate warming is most pronounced at high latitudes, which could result in the intensification of the extensively cultivated areas in the boreal zone and could further enhance rates of forest clearing in the coming decades. Using paired forest‐field sampling and a chronosequence approach, we investigated the effect of conversion of boreal forest to agriculture on carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) dynamics in interior Alaska. Chronosequences showed large soil C losses during the first two decades following deforestation, with mean C stocks in agricultural soils being 44% or 8.3 kg m−2lower than C stocks in original forest soils. This suggests that soil C losses from land‐use change in the boreal region may be greater than those in other biomes. Analyses of changes in stable C isotopes and in quality of soil organic matter showed that organic C was lost from soils by combustion of cleared forest material, decomposition of organic matter and possibly erosion. Chronosequences indicated an increase in C storage during later decades after forest clearing, with 60‐year‐old grassland showing net ecosystem C gain of 2.1 kg m−2over the original forest. This increase in C stock resulted probably from a combination of large C inputs from belowground biomass and low C losses due to a small original forest soil C stock and low tillage frequency. Reductions in soil N stocks caused by land‐use change were smaller than reductions in C stocks (34% or 0.31 kg m−2), resulting in lower C/N ratios in field compared with forest mineral soils, despite the occasional incorporation of high‐C forest‐floor material into field soils. Carbon mineralization per unit of mineralized N was considerably higher in forests than in fields, which could indicate that decomposition rates are more sensitive in forest soils than in field soils to inorganic N addition (e.g. by increased N deposition from the atmosphere). If forest conversion to agriculture becomes more widespread in the boreal region, the resulting C losses (51% or 11.2 kg m−2at the ecosystem level in this study) will induce a positive feedback to climatic warming and additional land‐use change. However, by selecting relatively C‐poor soils and by implementing management practices that preserve C, losses of C from soils can be reduced.
Key role of proline‐rich tyrosine kinase 2 in interleukin‐8 (CXCL8/IL‐8)‐mediated human neutrophil chemotaxis
Authors: Di Cioccio Vito , Strippoli Raffaele , Bizzarri Cinzia , Troiani Giulia , Cervellera Maria Neve , Gloaguen Isabelle , Colagrande Antonella , Cattozzo Elisa Margherita , Pagliei Sabrina , Santoni Angela , Colotta Francesco , Mainiero Fabrizio , Bertini Riccardo
Published: March 2004

The signalling pathways leading to CXCL8/IL‐8‐induced human neutrophil migration have not been fully characterized. The present study demonstrates that CXCL8 induces tyrosine phosphorylation as well as enzymatic activity of proline‐rich tyrosine kinase 2 (Pyk2), a non‐receptor protein tyrosine kinase (PTK), in human neutrophils. Induction of Pyk2 tyrosine phosphorylation by CXCL8 is regulated by Src PTK activation, whereas it is unaffected by phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase activation. Inhibition of Pyk2 activation by PP1, a Src PTK inhibitor, is paralleled by the inhibition of CXCL8‐mediated neutrophil chemotaxis. Among CXCL8 receptors, Src protein tyrosine kinase activation selectively regulates CXCR1‐mediated polymorphonuclear neutrophil (PMN) chemotaxis. Overexpression of PykM, the kinase‐dead mutant of Pyk2, blocks CXCL8‐induced chemotaxis of HL‐60‐derived PMN‐like cells, thus pinpointing the key role of Pyk2 in CXCL8‐induced chemotaxis.
Comparative studies of some properties of undehulled, mechanically dehulled and manually dehulled cowpea (Vigna unguiculata Walp. L.) flours
Authors: Akinjayeju Oluwole , Bisiriyu Kamoru Tolu
Published: March 2004

A comparative evaluation was made of some physico‐chemical and rheological characteristics of undehulled, manually dehulled and mechanically dehulled cowpea (Vigna unguiculata Walp. L.) flours from brown and white varieties of the legume. The flours were used to prepare steamed bean paste, ‘Moinmoin’, which was analysed for some sensory parameters. Dehulling and dehulling methods had no appreciable influence on the physical characteristics and proximate composition of the flours, except ash content, which was slightly higher in undehulled flour samples. Amylograph pasting characteristics of the flours showed varying trends because of dehulling method and/or presence of seed coats. ‘Moinmoin’ samples prepared from the flours received similar ratings for all sensory attributes, with no significant differences (P < 0.01 and P < 0.05), except for the low‐rated (poorer) colour of the undehulled brown product.
The effects of ingredients on popcorn popping characteristics
Authors: Ceylan Mehmet , Karababa Erşan
Published: March 2004

Response surface methodology was used to evaluate the effects of ingredients on popcorn popping characteristics. The effects of different ingredients on the expansion volume and unpopped kernel ratio of popcorn in a conventional popper and a microwave oven were evaluated and optimized by response surface methodology. The regression models were significant and hadR2value in the range of 0.919–0.956. The optimum levels of ingredients for microwave popping were 4.4% salt, 5.9% vegetable oil, 0% sodium bicarbonate and 16.4% butter, this formulation giving an expansion volume of 33.1 mL g−1. In the case of conventional popping, the maximum expansion volume of 37.3 mL g−1was obtained for 3.5% salt, 6% vegetable oil, 0.10% sodium bicarbonate and 12.9% butter.
Changes of glycinin conformation due to pH, heat and salt determined by differential scanning calorimetry and circular dichroism
Authors: Kim Kang Sung , Kim Seran , Yang Hye Jeong , Kwon Dae Young
Published: March 2004

Conformational changes of glycinin caused by either pH, heat or salt were investigated using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and circular dichroism (CD). Glycinin of more than 97% purity was used for the experiments. Without the presence of salt (NaCl), glycinin (protein concentration of 16%) was most stable at pH 4.5; the temperature for midpoint of transition (Tm) and enthalpy change (ΔH) were 93.5 °C and 18.1 J g−1 protein, respectively. Both parameters decreased gradually as the pH of the protein solution was increased to 9.5. The endothermic peak of glycinin disappeared when the pH was >11.5 or <3.0. DSC results showed that with increasing of salt concentration, glycinin was substantially stabilized even in acidic (pH 3.0) and alkaline (pH 11.5) conditions; the degree of stabilization was more significantly affected at the acidic pH. The CD profiles of soy glycinin were, however, not significantly altered even in acidic and alkaline conditions. Thermal denaturation was suppressed by NaCl even in 90 °C, pH 8.0, when the salt concentration was 0.45 m. The stabilizing effects of NaCl coincided with an increase in the percentage of α‐helix in glycinin. Therefore, soy glycinin appeared to have a well‐ordered structure under the pH conditions studied, especially in the presence of NaCl. The λmin signal at 222 nm remained unchanged up to 80 °C, but the negative intensity increased substantially when the temperature was >80 °C.
Mechanical and barrier properties of sodium caseinate–anhydrous milk fat edible films
Authors: Khwaldia Khaoula , Banon Sylvie , Desobry Stéphane , Hardy Joël
Published: March 2004

Edible films were cast from solutions of sodium caseinate (NaCAS) and from emulsions of this protein with anhydrous milk fat (AMF). The moisture sorption isotherms, mechanical properties [tensile strength (TS) and elongation] and water vapour and oxygen permeabilities were determined for films based on NaCAS as a function of AMF concentration. AMF concentration significantly affected TS (P < 0.001) and elongation (P < 0.05). The increase of lipid content led to a loss of mechanical efficiency, but had little influence on water vapour barrier properties. No significant difference (P > 0.05) occurred between oxygen permeability of films at each lipid concentration.
Fatty acid composition, antioxidants and lipid oxidation in chicken breasts from different production regimes
Authors: Jahan Kishowar , Paterson Alistair , Spickett Corinne M.
Published: March 2004

Chicken breast from nine products and from the following production regimes: conventional (chilled and frozen), organic and free range, were analysed for fatty acid composition of total lipids, preventative and chain breaking antioxidant contents and lipid oxidation during 5 days of sub‐ambient storage following purchase. Total lipids were extracted with an optimal amount of a cold chloroform methanol solvent. Lipid compositions varied, but there were differences between conventional and organic products in their contents of total polyunsaturated fatty acids and n‐3 and n‐6 fatty acids and n‐6:n‐3 ratio. Of the antioxidants, α‐tocopherol content was inversely correlated with lipid oxidation. The antioxidant enzyme activities of catalase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase varied between products. Modelling with partial least squares regression showed no overall relationship between total antioxidants and lipid data, but certain individual antioxidants showed a relationship with specific lipid fractions.
Non‐destructive determination of acid–brix ratio of tomato juice using near infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Jha Shyam N. , Matsuoka T.
Published: March 2004

Consumer's acceptance of tomato juice depends on its sourness to sweetness ratio and measuring this is important for quality control and marketing. Traditional methods destroy the samples, are time consuming and cannot be used in continuous packing or bottling systems. A non‐destructive method of quality evaluation, using near infrared (NIR) techniques, was tested, by using a portable NIR measuring unit. Spectra of tomato juice of known acid and brix values were determined and, in the wavelength range 703–1124 nm (NIR), a calibration model for acid–brix ratio (ABR) was developed, by using unscrambler software. When used to predict ABR of tomato juice statistical analysis showed minimal standard error (0.009) and satisfactorily high correlation coefficients (0.92) over the wavelength range 1059.5–1124.8 nm, for both calibration and prediction. These values were hardly different from analytical results and the NIR model has potential for non‐destructive prediction of ABR of tomato juice.
Colour degradation of acidified vegetable juice
Authors: Loong Mann‐Na , Goh Hwee‐Kwang
Published: March 2004

Mixed vegetable juice was acidified to a pH below 4 and subjected to pasteurization regimes between 80 and 100 °C. Hunter colour scale values (L, a and b) of the pasteurized samples were analysed to determine the kinetics of green and total colour degradation. The ‘a’ value was chosen as the physical parameter for green colour while ‘Lab’ represented the total colour. A concept, based on fractional conversion, was used for the determination of kinetic parameters. The results revealed that degradation of green and total colour of the acidified vegetable juice followed first‐order kinetics. Temperature dependency of the rate constants for both the green and the total colour could be described by the Arrhenius relationship. The activation energies of green and total colour degradation were 49.19 and 29.00 kJ mol−1, respectively.
Self‐administration of medication in hospital: patients’ perspectives
Authors: Manias Elizabeth , Beanland Christine , Riley Robin , Baker Linda
Published: March 2004

Background.  Little information is available about patients’ perspectives on self‐ or nurse‐related administration of medication.

Aim.  The aim of the study was to determine patients’ perspectives about self‐medication in the acute care setting.

Methods.  A qualitative approach, using in‐depth semi‐structured interviews, was taken. Ten patients with a chronic medical illness who had experienced multiple hospital admissions for treatment were interviewed about their experiences of medication administration in the acute care setting. Participants were recruited from two cardiovascular wards in a private, not‐for‐profit hospital in Melbourne, Australia. Data collection occurred between August and September 2002.

Findings.  Four major themes were identified from the interviews: benefits of self‐administration, barriers to self‐administration, assessing appropriateness of self‐administration and timing of medication administration. Seven participants had previously experienced self‐administration of medications and six were in favour of this practice in the clinical setting. Nine managed their own medications at home, and one self‐administered with some assistance from his family. Participants were very concerned about how nurses’ heavily regulated routines affected delivery of medications in hospital and disrupted individualized plans of care maintained in the home setting.

Conclusions.  In planning and implementing self‐administration programmes, it is important to consider patients’ views. Medication regimes should be simple and flexible enough to adapt to patients’ lifestyles and usual routines. Nurses should also take advantage of opportunities to support and facilitate patient autonomy, to enable more effective management of health care needs when patients return home.
Factors related to childbirth satisfaction
Authors: Goodman Petra , Mackey Marlene C. , Tavakoli Abbas S.
Published: March 2004

Background.  A woman's satisfaction with the childbirth experience may have immediate and long‐term effects on her health and her relationship with her infant, but there is a lack of current research in this area.

Aim.  This paper reports a study to examine multiple factors for their association with components of childbirth satisfaction and with the total childbirth experience.

Method.  A correlational descriptive study was conducted with 60 low‐risk postpartum women, aged 18–46 years, with uneventful vaginal deliveries of healthy full‐term infants at two medical centres in the south‐eastern United States. The Labor Agentry Scale, McGill Pain Questionnaire and Mackey Childbirth Satisfaction Rating Scale and a background questionnaire were completed by women. Obstetrical data were collected from the medical record.

Findings.  Personal control was a statistically significant predictor of total childbirth satisfaction (P = 0·0045) and with the subscale components of satisfaction (self, partner, baby, nurse, physician and overall). In addition, having expectations for labour and delivery met was a significant predictor of satisfaction with own performance during childbirth.

Conclusions.  Personal control during childbirth was an important factor related to the women's satisfaction with the childbirth experience. Helping women to increase their personal control during labour and birth may increase the women's childbirth satisfaction.
Genome stability of vtc1, tt4, and tt5 Arabidopsis thaliana mutants impaired in protection against oxidative stress
Authors: Filkowski Jody , Kovalchuk Olga , Kovalchuk Igor
Published: March 2004

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are formed upon normal cellular metabolism or influence of environmental factors and, at normal levels, they play an important physiological role. However, at elevated levels, radicals are toxic and extremely dangerous to all cellular components, including DNA. To efficiently protect themselves, plants have developed sophisticated mechanisms for radical screening and scavenging. In this paper, we analyzed the genome stability of several plant mutants impaired in the protection against free radicals. We crossed the well‐known uidA recombination reporter line 651 to flavonoid (tt4 and tt5) and Vitamin C (vtc1)‐deficient plants. We found that in all lines tested, both spontaneous and induced (UVC and Rose Bengal (RB)) recombination was higher than in the original 651 parental line. The mRNA expression levels of various DNA repair (RAD1, RAD54‐like, MSH3) as well as radical scavenging genes (GPx1, CAT, FSD3) exhibited substantial differences in both control and induced conditions. Our data show that plants impaired in certain aspects of the protection against elevated levels of free radicals induce the production of scavenging enzymes earlier than wild‐type (wt) plants, and the higher level of radical species results in the increased incidence of spontaneous double‐strand breaks resulting in a higher expression of DNA repair genes.
High‐resolution boundary analysis during Arabidopsis thaliana flower development
Authors: Breuil‐Broyer Stephanie , Morel Patrice , De Almeida‐Engler Janice , Coustham Vincent , Negrutiu Ioan , Trehin Christophe
Published: March 2004

We report a comparative analysis of cell proliferation patterns during Arabidopsis flower development. Cell division was evaluated by a direct method, i.e. the 5‐bromo‐2′‐deoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation/immunodetection procedure. BrdU patterns in wild‐type plants were correlated with the expression profiles of both several cell cycle genes involved in the control of the G1/S transition and cell cycle‐related repressor genes, MSI4 and MSI5, encoding WD‐repeat proteins. To evaluate how proliferation patterns arise with respect to boundaries and vice versa, the expression of a boundary gene, CUP SHAPED COTYLEDON (CUC)2, was determined. Combining these approaches, we demonstrate that boundaries between inflorescence and floral meristems and between floral whorls are narrow bands of non‐dividing cells. In addition, we show that negative and positive regulators of cell proliferation are simultaneously and continuously expressed in dividing meristematic domains, being excluded from boundary cells. Finally, BrdU incorporation and CUC2 in situ hybridisation patterns were analysed in two mutant backgrounds, agamous (ag)‐1 and superman (sup)‐1, in order to assess changes in boundary establishment and different levels of indeterminacy under conditions of altered proliferation at the floral meristem centre.
β‐amino‐butyric acid‐induced resistance against necrotrophic pathogens is based on ABA‐dependent priming for callose
Authors: Ton Jurriaan , Mauch‐Mani Brigitte
Published: March 2004

The non‐protein amino acid β‐amino‐butyric acid (BABA) protects plants against a wide range of pathogens. We have examined the effectiveness and mode of action of BABA on resistance against two necrotrophic pathogens. Treatment of Arabidopsis with BABA induced resistance against Alternaria brassicicola and Plectosphaerella cucumerina to a similar level by jasmonic acid (JA). Conversely, treatment with benzothiadiazole (BTH), a functional analogue of salicylic acid (SA), had no significant effect on the resistance against both pathogens. BABA‐induced resistance against A. brassicicola and P. cucumerina was unaffected in the JA‐insensitive mutant coi1‐1 and the camalexin‐deficient mutant pad3‐1. Moreover, the expression of BABA‐induced resistance was not associated with enhanced accumulation of camalexin or enhanced transcription of the JA‐inducible PDF1.2 gene. The expression of BABA‐induced resistance against P. cucumerina was unaffected in mutants impaired in ethylene (ET) and SA signalling, but was blocked in the abscisic acid (ABA)‐deficient mutant aba1‐5, the ABA‐insensitive mutant abi4‐1 and the callose‐deficient mutant pmr4‐1. Upon infection by both pathogens, BABA‐treated plants showed an earlier and more pronounced accumulation of callose. Treatment with the callose‐inhibitor 2‐deoxy‐D‐glucose (2‐DDG) reversed the BABA‐induced resistance against A. brassicicola. Furthermore, primed callose deposition was absent in BABA‐treated abi4‐1 and pmr4‐1 plants upon infection by P. cucumerina. Although the expression of BABA‐induced resistance was not associated with enhanced transcription of the ABA‐inducible RAB18 gene, application of ABA mimicked the effect of BABA on the level of callose accumulation and resistance. Hence, BABA‐induced resistance against necrotrophic pathogens is based on primed callose accumulation, which is controlled by an ABA‐dependent defence pathway.
Viroid‐induced RNA silencing of GFP‐viroid fusion transgenes does not induce extensive spreading of methylation or transitive silencing
Authors: Vogt Ulrike , Pélissier Thierry , Pütz Arno , Razvi Fareha , Fischer Rainer , Wassenegger Michael
Published: March 2004

Viroid infection is associated with the production of short interfering RNAs (siRNAs), a hallmark of post‐transcriptional gene silencing (PTGS). However, viroid RNAs autonomously replicating in the nucleus have not been shown to trigger the degradation of homologous RNA in the cytoplasm. To investigate the potential of viroids for the induction of gene silencing, non‐infectious fragments of potato spindle tuber viroid (PSTVd) cDNA were transcriptionally fused to the 3′ end of the green fluorescent protein (GFP)‐coding region. Introduction of such constructs into tobacco plants resulted in stable transgene expression. Upon PSTVd infection, transgene expression was suppressed and partial de novo methylation of the transgene was observed. PSTVd‐specific siRNA was detected but none was found corresponding to the gfp gene. Methylation was restricted almost entirely to the PSTVd‐specific part of the transgene. Neither a gfp transgene construct lacking viroid‐specific elements was silenced nor was de novo methylation detected, when it was introduced into the genetic background of the PSTVd‐infected plant lines containing silenced GFP:PSTVd transgenes. The absence of gfp‐specific siRNAs and of significant methylation within the gfp‐coding region demonstrated that neither silencing nor DNA methylation spread from the initiator region into adjacent 5′ regions.
Nested core collections maximizing genetic diversity in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: McKhann Heather I. , Camilleri Christine , Bérard Aurélie , Bataillon Thomas , David Jacques L. , Reboud Xavier , Le Corre Valérie , Caloustian Christophe , Gut Ivo G. , Brunel Dominique
Published: March 2004

The successful exploitation of natural genetic diversity requires a basic knowledge of the extent of the variation present in a species. To study natural variation in Arabidopsis thaliana, we defined nested core collections maximizing the diversity present among a worldwide set of 265 accessions. The core collections were generated based on DNA sequence data from a limited number of fragments evenly distributed in the genome and were shown to successfully capture the molecular diversity in other loci as well as the morphological diversity. The core collections are available to the scientific community and thus provide an important resource for the study of genetic variation and its functional consequences in Arabidopsis. Moreover, this strategy can be used in other species to provide a rational framework for undertaking diversity surveys, including single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) discovery and phenotyping, allowing the utilization of genetic variation for the study of complex traits.
Molecular regulation of sinapate ester metabolism inBrassica napus: expression of genes, properties of the encoded proteins and correlation of enzyme activities with metabolite accumulation
Authors: Milkowski Carsten , Baumert Alfred , Schmidt Diana , Nehlin Lilian , Strack Dieter
Published: March 2004

Members of the Brassicaceae family accumulate specific sinapate esters, i.e. sinapoylcholine (sinapine), which is considered as a major antinutritive compound in seeds of important crop plants likeBrassica napus, and sinapoylmalate, which is implicated in UV‐B tolerance in leaves. We have studied the molecular regulation of the sinapate ester metabolism inB. napus, and we describe expression of genes, some properties of the encoded proteins and profiles of the metabolites and enzyme activities. The cloned cDNAs encoding the key enzymes of sinapine biosynthesis, UDP‐glucose (UDP‐Glc):B. napussinapate glucosyltransferase (BnSGT1) and sinapoylglucose:B. napuscholine sinapoyltransferase (BnSCT), were functionally expressed. BnSGT1 belongs to a subgroup of plant GTs catalysing the formation of 1‐O‐hydroxycinnamoyl‐β‐d‐glucoses. BnSCT is another member of serine carboxypeptidase‐like (SCPL) family of acyltransferases. TheB. napusgenome contains at least twoSGTandSCTgenes, each derived from its progenitorsB. oleraceaandB. rapa. BnSGT1 and BnSCT activities are subjected to pronounced transcriptional regulation.BnSGT1transcript level increases throughout early stages of seed development until the early cotyledonary stage, and stays constant in later stages. The highest level ofBnSGT1transcripts is reached in 2‐day‐old seedlings followed by a dramatic decrease. In contrast, expression ofBnSCTis restricted to developing seeds. Regulation of gene expression at the transcript level seems to be responsible for changes of BnSGT1 and BnSCT activities during seed and seedling development ofB. napus. Together with sinapine esterase (SCE) and sinapoylglucose:malate sinapoyltransferase (SMT), activities of BnSGT1 and BnSCT show a close correlation with the accumulation kinetics of the corresponding metabolites.
Summer drought: a driver for crown condition and mortality of Norway spruce in Norway
Authors: Solberg S.
Published: March 2004

Summer drought, i.e. unusually dry and warm weather, has been a significant stress factor for Norway spruce in southeast Norway during the 14 years of forest monitoring. Dry and warm summers were followed by increases in defoliation, discolouration of foliage, cone formation and mortality. The causal mechanisms are discussed. Most likely, the defoliation resulted from increased needle‐fall in the autumn after dry summers. During the monitoring period 1988–2001, southeast Norway was repeatedly affected by summer drought, in particular, in the early 1990s. The dataset comprised 455 ‘Forest officers’ plots’ with annual data on crown condition and mortality. Linear mixed models were used for estimation and hypothesis testing, including a variance–covariance structure for the handling of random effects and temporal autocorrelation.