bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is the training train out of control? A case of evaluation failure from New Zealand
Authors: Massey Claire
Published: November 2004

There is a noticeable absence of robust debate over the decision to deliver free or subsidised training programmes to those running small to medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs), Many governments offer these schemes, despite the lack of empirical evidence that programmes aimed at individuals contribute positively to firm performance and therefore to economic growth. A similar situation probably exists in the firms that participate in training; a lack of robustness in the way they ensure a relationship between the training selected and the needs of employees in the context of their jobs. This paper explores the issues facing both firms and government agencies in New Zealand as they make decisions about investing in training as an enterprise development strategy. It is suggested that the way in which firms and government agencies behave in relation to training investment decisions is flawed: those involved follow received wisdom, act upon hunches and appear indifferent to ensuring that their respective investments are maximised. This situation will continue until it is realised that training is a key developmental strategy and gaining value from training events means that more rigour needs to be applied to planning and evaluation.
Benchmarking the role‐modification process for successful knowledge transfer
Authors: Leung Samuel H.N. , Chan Joseph W.K. , Lee W.B.
Published: November 2004

The ultimate objective of knowledge management is to effectively maintain and transfer the necessary knowledge to the operation's staff. The conventional knowledge‐management methods may only be suitable for the larger‐sized enterprise, but, for the small and medium‐sized companies, it is difficult to spare dedicated resources (people, time, and money) to manage the knowledge‐accumulation and dissemination‐activities. The work presented in this paper proposes a method to overcome some of these difficulties. A role‐modification approach is used to stimulate an autonomously conducted knowledge transfer. New knowledge is developed and managed by the person who successfully takes up a new role in work team. To achieve role modification, ordinary staff‐training methods may not be effective. Psychotherapists already have a set of role‐ modification practices to assist people having role problems. Benchmarking is a suitable methodology to apply to these practices. The authors assisted an engineering‐and‐design company in adopting this psychotherapists’ practice and applied it to a work‐team environment. One of their team members was induced to undergo a role modification and an autonomous knowledge‐ transfer experience.
Metrics and management: applying the results of the balanced scorecard
Authors: Self James
Published: November 2004

The paper reviews the balanced scorecard's first year of operation at the University of Virginia Library. It focuses on outcomes, offering answers to some basic questions. How were the results used? What was done to address shortfalls? Were successful metrics and their targets revised? What changes were made to the overall suite of metrics? Has the scorecard improved the organization? The paper serves as a case study in the use of the balanced scorecard in an academic library, and informs the audience of the strengths and weaknesses of this management tool.
Designing tools to fill the void: a case study in developing evaluation for reading promotion projects
Authors: Greenwood Helen , Eric Davies J.
Published: November 2004

The Library and Information Statistics Unit at Loughborough University (LISU) was recently commissioned to develop an evaluation toolkit for a project aimed at supporting the development of new creative partnerships between libraries, museums and the arts using books and reading as a launch pad to develop new audiences and new venues for reading inspired creativity. Entitled “Books Connect”, the project comprised 13 individual cross‐domain events or initiatives that took place in the nine local authority areas in the East Midlands region of the UK in early 2002. These individual activities were very varied; involving different art forms, venues and partnerships, and featuring workshops, displays and performances and thus presented an interesting challenge in terms of creating a uniformly applicable set of performance indicators and data gathering instruments that could be used “in the field” by individual project managers. The specially created evaluation “toolkit” comprised a set of audience questionnaires and interview schedules as well as templates to gather reviews from co‐ordinators, and accounts of artists’ and partners’ experience of events and initiatives. The data gathered were assembled and analysed by LISU specialists.
Two‐stage ultrasonography in screening for fetal anomalies at 13–14 and 18–22 weeks of gestation
Authors: Taipale Pekka , Ämmälä Martti , Salonen Riitta , Hiilesmaa Vilho
Published: November 2004

Background.  The aim of this study was to assess the value of two‐stage screening by ultrasonography in detecting selected major fetal anomalies in a low‐risk obstetric population.

Methods.  In a defined geographic area, 4789 consecutive low‐risk pregnant women participated in screening by two‐stage ultrasonography as part of routine maternal care. The examinations were usually performed by specially trained midwives at 13–14 and 18–22 weeks of gestation. Of the women, 4073 had both scans, 440 had the early one only, and 276 the late scan only. Pregnancy outcomes were ascertained from obstetric and pediatric records, and the data were supplemented with information from the national birth and malformation registries.

Results.  Of the 4855 fetuses, 33 (0.7%) had major structural defects considered detectable by ultrasonography. Of these, six (18%) were identified at the early scan, and an additional 10 (30%) at the late scan, yielding a total sensitivity of 48% for the two‐stage screening. Twenty offspring had chromosomal abnormalities; 10 were identified by increased nuchal translucency at the early scan, one additional one (by hydronephrosis) at the late scan, and the remaining nine at birth.

Conclusions.  In a low‐risk population, first‐trimester scanning is useful in finding fetuses with chromosomal anomalies, but a second‐trimester scan is needed for other types of defects. The sensitivity of routine screening by midwives for fetal structural defects in a general obstetric population remains lower than that reported by specialized centers.
Trust and confirmation in a gynecologic examination situation: a critical incident technique analysis
Authors: Wendt Eva , Fridlund Bengt , Lidell Evy
Published: November 2004

Background.  Gynecologic examination is a common measure in reproductive health care. Many women experience the examination as a more or less negative event, with shortcomings in the examiner's behavior. The aim of the study was to describe, in terms of critical incidences, women's experiences concerning the personnel's behavior in the situation of gynecologic examination.

Methods.  The informants were strategically chosen and consisted of 30 Swedish women between the ages of 18–82 years old. The data collection method was qualitative research interviews analyzed by critical incident technique.

Results.  The result consisted of 30 subcategories, five categories, and two main areas – trust and confirmation. The personnel enabled trust when they promoted participation, created confidence, and were supportive. The opposite behavior contributed to the lack of trust. Confirmation described behavior that confirmed, respectively, did not confirm the women. This was shown through the presence or lack of respect and engagement.

Conclusion.  The personnel's positive behavior enabled trust and confirmed the women as individuals, while negative behavior was decisive in an unfavorable way. A complexity of patterns of knowing in nursing was identified. Participation through information that contributed to trust was important and amounted to one fourth of the incidents in the material. Respect and engagement, which confirmed the women, facilitated a positive caring relationship. The examination situation can be improved through reflection of the personnel's own behavior and further research about women's own experiences.
GENETICS OF GRACILARIA TIKVAHIAE (RHODOPHYCEAE). X. STUDIES ON A BISEXUAL CLONE12
Authors: van der Meer John P. , Patwary Mohsin U. , Bird C. J.
Published: November 2004

A male done of the red alga Gracilaria tikvahiae McLachlan spontaneously produced a bisexual frond which remained bisexual in subsequent subcultures. Both male and female components of bisexual fronds were functional; however, some unusual results were obtained in crosses. When bisexual fronds were crossed with a normal haploid male, the resulting carpospores all developed into diploid male gametophytes. When bisexual plants were self fertilized, all the carpospores yielded diploid bisexual gametophytes. Only when bisexual plants were crossed to normal haploid females, did carpospores develop into diploid tetrasporophytes as they normally do. The F1 gametophyte generation obtained from these tetrasporophytes, however, included not only females and males but also bisexual plants, in a 2:1:1 ratio. These results are consistent with the interpretation that bisexual plants have a recessive mutation of a gene other than the primary sex determining locus, and that this mutation is expressed only in male plants. It is suggested that the altered gene may ordinarily have a regulatory function in the maintenance of the dioecious condition.
OBSERVATIONS ON NORTH AMERICAN GOMPHONEIS (BACILLARIOPHYCEAE). I. VALVE ULTRASTRUCTURE OF G. MAMMILLA WITH COMMENT ON THE TAXONOMIC STATUS OF THE GENUS1,2
Authors: Kociolek John P. , Rosen Barry H.
Published: November 2004

Recent questions concerning the taxonomic status of the diatom genus Gomphoneis Cleve have prompted critical examination of the valvar morphology of a species originally included in the genus. Light and electron microscopic observations on G. mammilla (Ehr.) Cl. show that the characteristics put forth by Cleve to delineate the genus are present in this taxon. Striae composed of two rows of simple areolae located in depressions on the valve and longitudinal lines formed by a broad internal axial plate were observed in G. mammilla. The presence of two apical spines on the headpole and the structure of a bilobed apical pore field located at the footpole are described, in addition to other valve features. Valve morphology of G. mammilla is compared with that of doubly‐punctate Gomphonema species with the result that we recommend the two genera remain separate.
FINE STRUCTURE OF THE MUCOCYSTS OF COLACIUM CALVUM (EUGLENOPHYCEAE)1
Authors: Willey Ruth L.
Published: November 2004

The characteristic stalk of Colacium calvum Stein is formed from carbohydrate extruded by granules in the anterior portion of the cell. These granules exhibit the characteristics of mucocysts and their contents have two electron densities. A narrow extension of each granule extends past neighboring muciferous bodies to attachment sites in the posterior notch of the pellicle strip. The granule contains neutral polysaccharide which resembles that in the peripheral cisternae of the Golgi apparatus. The attachment site is structurally complex.
EXPERIMENTAL MODIFICATION OF THE MORPHOGENETIC BEHAVIOR OF THE ISOLATED SUB‐APICAL CELL OF THE APEX OFSPHACELARIA CIRROSA(PHAEOPHYCEAE)1
Authors: Ducreux Georges
Published: November 2004

Experimental isolation of the terminal cells of the apex ofSphacelaria cirrosa(Roth) C. Agardh shows that the isolated apical cell retains a self‐maintained mode of functioning. The isolated sub‐apical cell, however, gives rise to a newly‐formed axis after undergoing a different type of developmental sequence. An experimental scheme allowing one to defer isolation of the sub‐apical cell after killing the apical cell shows that the maintenance, for a few hours only, of connections with subjacent cells is sufficient to induce an apical type mode of functioning in the sub‐apical cell. The sequential analysis of the first cytological events in this phenomenon allows one to relate this modification of the morphogenetic program to a functional and polarized arrangement of organelles within the cell reconstituting the apical. The morphogenetic program is characterized by a migration of the nucleus to a distal position prior to an asymmetrical mitosis characteristic of the apical mode of functioning.
BIOCHEMICAL STRATEGIES FOR GROWTH OF GRACILARIA TIKVAHIAE (RHODOPHYTA) IN RELATION TO LIGHT INTENSITY AND NITROGEN AVAILABILITY1
Authors: Lapointe Brian E. , Duke Clifford S.
Published: November 2004

The main effects and interactions between light (Io, full incident sunlight to 0.07 Io) and NO3− loading (0.4 to 4.3 mmol · g dry weight−1· d−1) on growth rate, photosynthesis and biochemical constituents of Gracilaria tikvahiae McLachlan were studied using a factorial design experiment in outdoor, continuous‐flow seawater cultures. Incipient nitrogen limitation in the low NO3− loading, Io and 0.57 Io treatments occurred after 2.5 weeks of growth under the experimental conditions and resulted in decreased tissue NO3− and R‐phycoerythrin. Tissue NO3− and R‐phycoerythrin accounted for up to ca. 15 and 20%, respectively, of the total N in G. tikvahiae suggesting a N reserve role for these N pools. Under light and NO3− limitation, growth rate was a parabolic function of the C:N ratio. As light limitation increased, growth rate and the C:N ratio decreased as levels of Chl‐a, R‐phycoerythrin, percent N and percent protein increased. As NO3− limitation increased, growth rate and levels of Chl‐a, R‐phycoerythrin, percent N and percent protein all decreased with parallel increases in the C:N ratio. In contrast to the inverse relationship between pigment content and light, ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase (RuBPCase) activity (on both a protein and dry weight basis) varied directly with light. This biochemical acclimation of G. tikvahiae to light and N availability appears to be a process directed towards maximizing photo synthetic capacity and growth.
INFLUENCE OF SALINITY AND SULFATE ON THE TOXICITY OF CHROMIUM(VI) TO THE ESTUARINE DIATOM THALASSIOSIRA PSEUDONANA1
Authors: Riedel Gerhardt F.
Published: November 2004

The acute toxicity of Cr(VI) to the diatom Thalassiosira pseudonana (Hasle and Heimdal) clone 3H was determined in artificial media of 3.2 and 0.32 ppt salinity and with variations of sulfate concentration in the media independent of salinity. Inhibitory concentrations of Cr(VI) ranged from 6.6 μM for growth rate and 4.9 μM for cell yield at 3.2 ppt salinity and 2.8 μM sulfate to 0.04 μM for growth rate and 0.02 μM for cell yield at 0.32 ppt salinity and 0.019 mM sulfate. The inhibition by Cr(VI) was a function of the ratio of Cr(VI) to sulfate. Inhibition occurred when‐this ratio exceeded about 500:1. It is suggested that the mechanism for the toxicity of Cr(VI) to diatoms and perhaps other aquatic organisms involves a site at which sulfate and chromate compete.
ULTRASTRUCTURE OF TETRASPOROGENESIS IN THE CORALLINE ALGAHALIPTILON CUVIERI(RHODOPHYTA)1
Authors: Vesk Maret , Borowitzka Michael A.
Published: November 2004

Tetrasporogenesis begins with the formation of the tetra‐sporocyte, an elongate, apparently wall‐less, cell containing few organelles. The tetrasporocyte rapidly elongates and a distinctive cell wall forms before the onset of meiosis. During this elongation phase there is also an increase in the number of plastids and mitochondria. The meiotic tetrasporocyte is characterized by extensive development of perinuclear endoplasmic reticulum (PNER) and peripheral endoplasmic reticulum (PER) and during the latter stages of sporogenesis by internuclear endoplasmic reticulum. Immediately next to the nuclear envelope the inter‐cisternal spaces of the PNER are filled with very electron dense material and the PNER cisternae are quite narrow, while further away from the nucleus the PNER cisternae dilate. Throughout meiosis there is continued replication of plastids and mitochondria as well as synthesis of starch and the formation of Golgi‐derived vesicles with very osmiophilic contents. Cytokinesis begins with the formation of striated thickenings on the inside of the tetrasporocyte wall, at the sites where the cleavage furrow, produced by infurrowing of the plasmalemma, will be formed. Early in cytokinesis the PER disappears and is replaced by osmiophilic vesicles and mitochondria. Tubular plasmalemma invaginations of 27–30 nm width also appear during the early stages of tetraspore wall formation. The ultra‐structure of the early stages of tetraspore germination is also described.
NEW ENDOLITHIC CYANOPHYTES FROM THE NORTH ATLANTIC OCEAN. III. HYELLA PYXIS LUKAS & HOFFMAN SP. NOV.1
Authors: Lukas Karen J. , Hoffman Emily J.
Published: November 2004

A new species of marine endolithic cyanophyte, Hyella pyxis Lukas and Hoffman (Order: Pleurocapsales), differs from other species of Hyella in its cell and filament dimensions, the manner in which its branches are initiated and the presence of gloeocapsin in the sheaths of colonies from the intertidal zone. Hyella pyxis colonies consist of a small cluster of coccoid cells located at the substrate surface and long, conspicuously branched filaments composed of cells that are longer than they are wide. Branches are initiated by the reorientation of the distal end of a filament cell or by the elongation of a filament cell, usually at one of its distal corners. Chromatic adaptation was not observed perhaps accounting for the relatively shallow depth limit of this species. Hyella pyxis was found within mollusk shells from the continental margin of eastern Florida to a depth of 50 m and carbonate rocks in the intertidal zone on Bermuda.
DEVELOPMENTAL STUDIES IN PORPHYRA. I. BLADE DIFFERENTIATION IN PORPHYRA PERFORATA AS EXPRESSED BY MORPHOLOGY, ENZYMATIC DIGESTION, AND PROTOPLAST REGENERATION1
Authors: Polne‐Fuller Miriam , Gibor Aharon
Published: November 2004

Four areas containing different cell morphologies were mapped on Porphyra blades and five different cell types (i.e. tapered with long extensions, large and vacuolated, vegetative and dividing, and reproductive: males and females) were identified in them. Tissues from these areas were dissociated, and protoplasts and single cells were isolated from the dissociated tissue of each distinct region. Regeneration rates of the isolated cells and protoplasts (isolates) varied depending on their morphological type. Regeneration rates were lowest in cultured isolates from the area just above the holdfast (ca. 1 %) and increased gradually to over 80% in isolates from areas of vegetative and reproductive regions away from the holdfast. Four distinct morphological patterns were observed among the regenerating plants. Cells isolated from vegetative areas developed into leafy plants while in liquid culture, and into calli when grown on solid medium. Isolates from reproductive areas developed into either a long thin or short thick filamentous plant. Those from ripe patches of carposporangia developed into thin conchocelis filaments, while isolates from non‐differentiated cells bordering the ripe reproductive patches developed into thick filaments resembling the morphology of conchosporangial branches. The blade of Porphyra appears simple as it consists of a single cell layer; however, it is complex both morphologically and physiologically.
Inducible Left Ventricular Outflow Tract Gradient During Dobutamine Stress Echocardiography: An Association with Intraoperative Hypotension But Not a Contraindication to Liver Transplantation
Authors: Maraj Suraj , Jacobs Larry E. , Maraj Rajiv , Contreras Rafael , Rerkpattanapipat Pairoj , Malik Taseem A. , Manzarbeitia Cosme , Munoz Santiago , Rothstein Kenneth , Kotler Morris N.
Published: November 2004

Background: Dobutamine stress echocardiography (DSE) is frequently used in the evaluation of cardiac risk prior to orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). In the general cardiac population, an inducible left ventricular outflow tract gradient (LVOT Δ) during DSE has variable prognostic importance. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence and clinical significance of LVOT Δ in patients undergoing OLT during DSE. Methods: Consecutive medical records of 106 patients who had undergone OLT at our institution from January 1997 until January 2002 were retrospectively analyzed and divided into two groups based on the presence (Group I, LVOT Δ > 36 mmHg) or absence (Group II, LVOT Δ≤ 36 mmHg) of a significant LVOT Δ measured during DSE. We determined any outcome differences between these two groups with regard to intraoperative hypotension, cardiac mortality, length of hospital stay, graft function, and renal function post‐OLT. Results: Forty‐six patients had an LVOT Δ > 36 mmHg (Group I) and 60 patients had LVOT Δ≤ 36 mmHg (Group II). Baseline demographics were similar in both groups. There was no significant overall difference in cardiac mortality between Group I versus Group II patients (0 versus 1 patient, respectively, P = 0.57). Intraoperative hypotension occurred in 4 patients in Group I versus 0 patient in Group II (P = 0.03). Length of stay, graft function, and postoperative renal function were similar in both groups. Conclusion: A significant LVOT Δ > 36 mmHg is a frequent finding occurring in 46/106 (43%) of patients who have DSE pre‐OLT. Intraoperative hypotension is associated with patients having an LVOT Δ. However, post‐OLT patients with significant LVOT Δ have a similar in‐hospital outcome compared to patients without significant LVOT Δ.
Atypical Echocardiographic Findings of Endocarditis in an Immunocompromised Patient
Authors: Letts Dustin P. , López‐Candales Angel
Published: November 2004

Cardiovascular manifestations in patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) have been altered by the introduction of highly active antiretroviral therapy regimens that allow more effective prophylactic treatment and an increased time of survival. Because of this, noninfectious cardiac conditions associated with HIV disease are being recognized with increasing frequency in these patients. Cardiac involvement in HIV‐infected patients varies from clinically silent to overtly symptomatic disease. By some estimates a direct cardiac cause of mortality is between 1% and 6% of all cases. Pericardial effusion, pericarditis, myocarditis, cardiomyopathy, endocarditis, and pulmonary hypertension are well‐recognized cardiac illnesses associated with HIV infection. Echocardiography has been crucial in evaluating HIV‐infected patients to assess the extent of cardiac involvement. This case report illustrates atypical echocardiographic manifestations of endocarditis and paravalvular abscess in an immunocom‐promised patient.
Live Three‐Dimensional Transthoracic Echocardiographic Delineation of Ventricular Septal Rupture Following Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Vengala Srinivas , Nanda Navin C. , Mehmood Farhat , Dod Harvinder S. , Khanna Deepak , Sinha Ashish , McGiffin David C.
Published: November 2004

We present an elderly patient with ventricular septal rupture following myocardial infarction in whom live three‐dimensional transthoracic echocardiography allowed comprehensive noninvasive assessment of the location, shape, and size of the septal defect, which could be clearly visualized en face from both left and right ventricular aspects.
Interactive effects of elevated CO2 and soil fertility on isoprene emissions from Quercus robur
Authors: Possell Malcolm , Heath James , Nicholas Hewitt C. , Ayres Edward , Kerstiens Gerhard
Published: November 2004

The effects of global change on the emission rates of isoprene from plants are not clear. A factor that can influence the response of isoprene emission to elevated CO2 concentrations is the availability of nutrients. Isoprene emission rate under standard conditions (leaf temperature: 30°C, photosynthetically active radiation (PAR): 1000 μmol photons m−2 s−1), photosynthesis, photosynthetic capacity, and leaf nitrogen (N) content were measured in Quercus robur grown in well‐ventilated greenhouses at ambient and elevated CO2 (ambient plus 300 ppm) and two different soil fertilities. The results show that elevated CO2 enhanced photosynthesis but leaf respiration rates were not affected by either the CO2 or nutrient treatments. Isoprene emission rates and photosynthetic capacity were found to decrease with elevated CO2, but an increase in nutrient availability had the converse effect. Leaf N content was significantly greater with increased nutrient availability, but unaffected by CO2. Isoprene emission rates measured under these conditions were strongly correlated with photosynthetic capacity across the range of different treatments. This suggests that the effects of CO2 and nutrient levels on allocation of carbon to isoprene production and emission under near‐saturating light largely depend on the effects on photosynthetic electron transport capacity.
How long before a change in soil organic carbon can be detected?
Authors: Smith Pete
Published: November 2004

When planning sampling in an experiment where soil organic carbon (SOC) content is expected to change, it is necessary to know how many samples will need to be taken to demonstrate a change in SOC and after how long this change will be detectable. Much has been published on the number of samples required to demonstrate the minimum detectable difference in SOC, but less on how long it takes for this change to be detectable. In this paper, a model of SOC dynamics is used to estimate the minimum time taken for a change in total SOC content to become measurable under different carbon inputs, land uses and soil types.

For free air carbon dioxide enrichment (FACE), and other experiments in which SOC is expected to increase, relationships between the percentage change in C inputs and the time taken to measure a change in SOC are presented, for two levels of sampling intensity corresponding to the maximum that is practically possible in most experiments (∼100 samples) and that used regularly in field experiments (10–20 samples).

In FACE experiments, where C inputs increase by a maximum of about 20–25%, SOC change could be detected with 90% confidence after about 6–10 years if a sampling regime allowing 3% change in background SOC level (probably requiring a very large number of samples) were used, but could not be detected at all if a sampling regime were used that allowed only a 15% change in background SOC to be detected. If increases in C inputs are much below 15%, it might not be possible to detect a change in soil C without an enormous number of samples. Relationships between the change in C inputs and the time taken to measure a change in SOC are robust over a range of soil types and land uses.

The results demonstrate how models of SOC dynamics can be used to complement statistical power analyses for planning when, and how intensively, to sample soils during experiments. An advantage of the modelling approach demonstrated here is that estimates of the minimum time taken for a change in soil carbon to become detectable can be made, even before any detailed soil samples are taken, simply from estimates of the likely increase in carbon inputs to the soil (via expected changes in net primary production).
Gross primary productivity and transpiration flux of the Australian vegetation from 1788 to 1988 AD: effects of CO2 and land use change
Authors: Berry Sandra L. , Roderick Michael L.
Published: November 2004

We present a novel approach to estimating the transpiration flux and gross primary productivity (GPP) from Normalized Difference Vegetation Index, leaf functional types, and readily available climate data. We use this approach to explore the impact of variations in the concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere ([CO2]) and consequent predicted changes in vegetation cover, on the transpiration flux and GPP. There was a near 1 : 1 relationship between GPP estimated with this transpiration flux approach and that estimated using a radiation‐use efficiency (RUE) approach. Model estimates are presented for the Australian continent under three vegetation–[CO2] scenarios: the present vegetation and hypothetical ‘natural’ vegetation cover with atmospheric CO2 concentration ([CO2]) of 350 μmol mol−1 (pveg350 and nveg350), and for the ‘natural’ vegetation with [CO2] 280 μmol mol−1 (nveg280). Estimated continental GPP is 6.5, 6.3 and 4.3 Gt C yr−1 for pveg350, nveg350 and nveg280, respectively. The corresponding transpiration fluxes are 232, 224 and 190 mm H2O yr−1. The contribution of the raingreen and evergreen components of the canopy to these fluxes are also estimated.
TNF‐α and TGF‐β1 gene polymorphisms and renal allograft rejection in Koreans
Authors: Park J.‐Y. , Park M.H. , Park H. , Ha J. , Kim S.J. , Ahn C.
Published: November 2004

Abstract:  This study was performed in order to evaluate the association of tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) and transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1) gene polymorphisms with renal allograft rejection in Koreans. Five TNF‐α (−1031T/C, −863C/A, −857C/T, −308G/A and −238G/A) and two TGF‐β1 (codon 10 T/C and codon 25 G/C) single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) sites were studied by using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) single‐strand conformation polymorphism and PCR restriction fragment length polymorphism methods in 100 controls and 164 patients. The patients underwent renal transplantation, having one or more Human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐A, HLA‐B and HLA‐DR antigens mismatched with their donors. For the TGF‐β1 gene, we also studied the polymorphism of donors. The allele frequencies of each SNP site in controls were not different from those of patients. The frequency of TNF‐α high‐producer genotype, −308GA, and TGF‐β1 lower (intermediate)‐producer genotype, codon 10 CC and codon 25 GG, were significantly higher in patients with recurrent acute rejection episodes (REs), compared to those in patients with no or one RE. The highest risk group for developing recurrent REs showed the combination of TNF‐α high‐ and TGF‐β1 lower‐producer genotypes. Analysis of chronic renal allograft dysfunction (CRAD) revealed that TGF‐β1 high‐producer genotype of donors, codon 10 TT/TC and codon 25 GG, is associated with CRAD especially in patients with recurrent REs. The highest risk group for developing CRAD showed the combination of recipient's TNF‐α high‐ and donor's TGF‐β1 high‐producer genotypes. These results would be useful for predicting high‐risk group for acute rejection or CRAD in renal transplantation.
Effect of Phosphorus Fertilizer on Soya Bean Residue Turnover in the Tropical Moist Savanna
Authors: Ogoke I. J. , Togun A. O. , Carsky R. J. , Dashiell K.
Published: November 2004

The contributions of soya bean (Glycine max) to the maintenance of soil N, organic matter and physical properties in any cropping system is dependent on the amount of the crop residue returned after grain harvest. This amount of residue is a function of the dry matter accumulated during growth. In the topical moist savanna (MS) of West Africa where soya bean production has increased especially due to the cultivation of more hectarage of land, increase in soya bean dry matter with the resulting residue is limited by P deficiencies. In this study, the effect of P application on residue turnover by soya bean varieties of different maturity classes was evaluated across the MS. The amount of root residue in the late varieties was double that of the early and medium varieties. The effect of P application on root residue was also greater in the late varieties. Although root residue was 0.35–0.72 Mg ha−1, this was about 17–21 % of total dry matter at harvest. Among the varieties, litter residue averaged less than 1 Mg ha−1 in the early and medium varieties, and was 32 % higher in the late varieties. Litter residue increased by 42–46 % with P application. The total amount of soya bean residue that is a potential source of organic material in a cropping system after the export of grain is small and averaged 2.88 Mg ha−1 . Of this, root residue constituted 18 %, litter residue 41 % and stover residue 40 %. In this study C/N ratio averaged 17.1, 34.8 and 32.2 for root, litter and stover, respectively. The amount of total residue obtained in this study shows that the benefit of the effect of soya beans on soil organic matter and physical properties derivable from a single soya bean crop is small.
Chemical Composition and In Vitro Digestibility of Whole‐Crop Pea and Pea–Cereal Mixture Silages Grown in South‐western Quebec
Authors: Mustafa A. F. , Seguin P.
Published: November 2004

The objective of this study was to determine the chemical composition and in vitro dry matter (IVDMD) and neutral detergent fibre (IVNDFD) digestibilities of silages made from whole‐crop pea [Pisum sativum L. (PS)], pea–wheat [Triticum aestivum L. (PW)], pea–barley [Hordeum vulgare L. (PB)] and pea–oat [Avena sativa L. (PO)] mixtures harvested 8 weeks (H8) and 10 weeks (H10) after seeding. Forty‐five days after ensiling, all forages were well ensiled as indicated by low pH and low water‐soluble carbohydrate content and high lactic acid concentration. Regardless of forage type, crude protein (CP) and IVNDFD were higher while starch and acid detergent lignin were lower in H8 than H10. However, harvest date had no effect on neutral (NDF) and acid (ADF) detergent fibre of the silages. Within each harvest date, CP was higher while NDF was lower for PS than pea–cereal silages. Differences in CP and fibre fractions between the pea–cereal mixture silages were not consistent for the two harvest dates. The IVDMD of PS was higher than that of the three pea–cereal mixture silages in H8 but was only higher than that of PB in H10. For the pea–cereal mixtures, IVDMD was higher for PO than PB and PW in H8 and was higher for PB than PW in H10. It was concluded that silage from pea monoculture had similar forage yields and a generally higher nutritive value than silages from pea–cereal mixtures.
Religion and Coping: A Contribution from Religious Studies
Authors: KWILECKI SUSAN
Published: November 2004

Freud and Marx pegged religion as a beguiling painkiller. Recent social scientific research has exposed the not‐so‐simple reality of religious coping, identifying differential usage, means, and outcomes. Appropriately, psychologists, many with clinical training, lead the way. This article is a contribution from religious studies. It describes two thus far neglected modes of religious coping that are prominent in traditions and distinctly representative of religious responses to suffering—magical rituals and religious experiences. Consideration of these forms will address deficiencies and imbalances in the literature apparent from the study of religions. Specifically, the current investigation of religion and coping would benefit from historical perspective, greater attention to unconscious coping processes, heightened use of qualitative data, and fuller recognition of the challenges inherent in the therapeutic use of religion.
Characterization of microsatellite markers from capybaras, Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris (Rodentia: Hydrochoeridae)
Authors: HERRERA E. A. , CHEMELLO M. E. , LACEY E. A. , SALAS V. , SOUSA B. F.
Published: November 2004

Fourteen microsatellite loci were isolated from capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris), which are large, diurnal social rodents that occur in the wet savannas of South America. Five of these loci were monomorphic. The remaining nine loci were polymorphic (two to seven alleles per locus), with observed levels of heterozygosity ranging from 0.063 to 0.800 (n = 17 animals). The latter loci provide a valuable tool for assessing patterns of parentage and kinship within capybara social groups.
Characterization of microsatellite loci in the Kaka, Nestor meridionalis
Authors: SAINSBURY JAMES P. , MACAVOY ELIZABETH S. , CHAMBERS GEOFFREY K.
Published: November 2004

Eight microsatellite loci were characterized from the Kaka (Nestor meridionalis), a New Zealand parrot, using a polymerase chain reaction‐based isolation technique. Locus‐specific primers were used to genotype nine Kaka populations and tested on 25 other species of parrot. The number of alleles observed within Kaka ranged from one to 16 in the 12–126 individuals screened and two loci exhibited greater than 60% heterozygosity. Furthermore, these primers are likely to be useful in population‐level studies of two other New Zealand parrots.
Isolation of highly polymorphic microsatellite loci from the temperate damselfish Parma microlepis
Authors: CURLEY BELINDA G. , GILLINGS MICHAEL R.
Published: November 2004

Microsatellites were isolated from the damselfish Parma microlepis (Günther 1862) (Pomacentridae) and screened for 100 individuals. Seven of the eight loci tested were highly polymorphic, having 14–43 alleles with average heterozygosities between 0.86 and 0.97. These loci should be informative for studies on population genetics of this species.
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite loci in Ononis repens, Leguminosae
Authors: KLODA JANE M. , DEAN PETER D. G. , MACDONALD DON , MAYES SEAN
Published: November 2004

Ten polymorphic microsatellites were isolated from Ononis repens, using a microsatellite enrichment protocol and selective hybridization with a mixed synthetic dinucleotide repeat probe. Primers for DNA amplifications using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were designed and synthesized. The loci amplified in both O. repens and O. spinosa. All 10 loci were polymorphic in each of four populations studied. These microsatellite markers will be useful for population genetic analysis and biodiversity studies of O. repens and O. spinosa.
Polymerase chain reaction primers for polymorphic microsatellite loci in the African armyworm, Spodoptera exempta (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: IBRAHIM KAMAL M. , YASSIN YOSUF , ELGUZOULI AMNA
Published: November 2004

Eight pairs of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) primers that amplify polymorphic microsatellite loci were developed for the African armyworm, Spodoptera exempta (Walker) to be used in the study of its population dynamics in sub‐Sahara Africa where the species is a major pest of cereals and rangeland. A magnetic beads based enrichment protocol was used; it appears that previously reported scarcity of microsatellites in Lepidoptera species does not apply to the African armyworm. All the loci showed significant heterozygote deficit; possibly because the samples were laboratory reared from limited stock. Four primer pairs successfully amplified single fragments of beet and fall armyworm DNA of comparable size to the African armyworm alleles.
Isolation and characterization of highly polymorphic microsatellite markers in Hypochaeris radicata (Asteraceae)
Authors: MIX C. , ARENS P. F. P. , OUBORG N. J. , SMULDERS M. J. M.
Published: November 2004

We developed five highly polymorphic dinucleotide microsatellite loci for the grassland species Hypochaeris radicata (Asteraceae). Polymorphism of these markers was examined in six populations in the Netherlands. All loci were polymorphic in all populations. The number of alleles per locus varied between 18 and 43. Expected heterozygosity was between 0.86 and 0.91. Cross‐species amplification was tested in six Hypochaeris species and was successful for three different loci in four species. These microsatellites are a useful tool in population genetic, dispersal and metapopulation studies or in testing levels of inbreeding.
Primers for sequence characterization and polymorphism detection in the Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) growth hormone 1 (GH1) gene
Authors: RYYNÄNEN HEIKKI J. , PRIMMER CRAIG R.
Published: November 2004

We report the identification of intraspecific sequence variation in the Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) growth hormone 1 gene. Rapid and inexpensive assays for polymorphism detection were developed for 10 sites. Five of the assays detected single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) using polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR–RFLP) analyses, and five were indel polymorphisms, detected using fragment length analyses. The average within population frequency of the most common allele varied from 0.52 to 0.90, and the average within population heterozygosity varied from 0.02 to 0.37 in seven European salmon populations.
Accuracy‐driven loci selection and assignment of individuals
Authors: TOPCHY ALEXANDER , SCRIBNER KIM , PUNCH WILLIAM
Published: November 2004

We present two programs: gafs for optimal selection of loci for use in individual assignment tests, and mlc, a program for individual classification using maximum likelihood and k‐nearest neighbour decision rules. gafs software employs a genetic algorithm to heuristically search multilocus subsets with several objective functions to maximize predictive accuracy of the assignments.
Characterization of six microsatellite loci in the Bermuda skink (Eumeces longirostris)
Authors: COUGHLAN J. P. , KITSON L. , DILLANE E. , DAVENPORT J. , CROSS T. F.
Published: November 2004

Conservation strategies for the critically endangered Bermuda skink will require knowledge of genetic variation and population structure. We describe the isolation of six polymorphic microsatellites for this species suitable for use in population genetics studies or for monitoring success of potential breeding programmes. Tissue sampling for DNA extraction involved no blood loss or tail autonomy. Three of these loci cross‐amplify and are polymorphic in a related North American skink (Eumeces fasciatus) and should also be informative for this species.
Isolation of polymorphic microsatellite loci in the Hawaii amakihi (Hemignathus virens) and their use in other honeycreeper species
Authors: EGGERT LORI S. , FLEISCHER ROBERT C.
Published: November 2004

We report the isolation and characterization of five polymorphic microsatellite loci in the Hawaii amakihi, Hemignathus virens, one of the most common native Hawaiian forest birds. These loci exhibit high levels of allelic diversity and heterozygosity in the three honeycreeper species we screened, and promise to be useful in our investigation of differences between honeycreeper populations at different elevations.
Denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) screening of clones prior to sequencing
Authors: MIDDLETON SIMON A. , ANZENBERGER GUSTL , KNAPP LESLIE A.
Published: November 2004

Whilst cloning and sequencing techniques are used ubiquitously for the identification of novel DNA sequences, the necessity to determine a consensus sequence means that this can be both labour‐intensive and costly. Here we describe a rapid and cost effective method of using denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) for the analysis of large numbers of clones prior to sequencing. This procedure allows for the selection of specific clones, eliminates the need to sequence multiple copies of the same clone, and reduces the likelihood of sequencing recombinant PCR product.
Isolation and characterization of polymorphic microsatellite markers in Zabrotes subfasciatus Boheman (Coleoptera: Bruchidae)
Authors: AEBI A. , SHANI T. , BUTCHER R. D. J. , ALVAREZ N. , RISTERUCCI A. M. , BENREY B.
Published: November 2004

Bruchid beetles of the genus Zabrotes (Coleoptera: Bruchidae) are important worldwide pests of legume seeds. Samples of Zabrotes subfasciatus and Z. sylvestris were collected from seeds of two Phaseolus species throughout Mexico to assess the role of host plant variation and plant domestication on the evolution of host use in this species. For this purpose six polymorphic microsatellite loci were isolated and characterized for the bruchid Z. subfasciatus. Cross‐species amplification tests were performed on Z. sylvestris and revealed that three loci amplified successfully and were polymorphic in this closely related species.
Characterization of microsatellite markers from the gastropod genusMelongena
Authors: HAYES K. A. , KARL S. A.
Published: November 2004

Eight microsatellite loci were isolated and characterized from the Florida crown conch (Melongenaspp.). Approximately 500 individuals from 20 populations encompassing all knownMelongenaspp. groups in Florida and Alabama were genotyped at all loci. High levels of variation were found with eight to 28 alleles per locus and observed per locus heterozygosity ranging from 0.148 to 0.779 (mean 0.624). One locus,Mco5, was monomorphic in more than half of the populations. These loci can provide useful information for a variety of studies ranging from parentage to population‐level analyses of the Florida crown conch.
Skin ageing and wrinkles: clinical and photographic scoring
Authors: Kappes U P
Published: November 2004

Sunlight induces clinical, histological and physiological changes in the skin that are known as photoageing. As the population ages, prevention and treatment of photoageing is a growing challenge because of its association with skin cancer as well as for cosmetic reasons. Therefore, it is of interest to assess the degrees of photoageing by developing valid and comprehensive grading systems. Several different methods have been proposed. These include descriptive grading scales, visual analogue scales and photographic grading scales. The merits and inconveniences of these different approaches are discussed.
Professionals under pressure: contextual influences on learning and development of radiographers in England
Authors: Brown Alan
Published: November 2004

The role of radiographers has changed significantly in the last 20 years, as the demand for radiography services has increased markedly and the work of radiographers has become more complex. This article is framed within a narrative, drawn from previous work, of how radiography has become a ‘profession under pressure’ and a contemporary analysis of how the context in which radiographers are working influences their opportunities for learning. Examples of the interaction between learning and contextual factors are drawn primarily from discussions that took place during two focus groups with radiographers. The analysis, using a framework developed by Eraut et al. (2004), indicates that contextual factors, such as the allocation and structuring of work, relationships at work, and participation and expectations at work, are significantly influencing possibilities for learning in the workplace. This suggests that current proposals to change the way in which radiographers’ work is structured may enhance their opportunities for learning. Similarly, changing patterns of relationships at work, based around skill mix proposals and changing career structures, could also increase radiographers’ opportunities for learning, both from other radiographers and from the other healthcare staff with whom they inter‐relate. Expectations about training and development from staff and their supervisors, often enshrined in departmental or institutional policies, can also be seen as influencing both the possibilities for learning and attitudes towards continuing learning. The article concludes by emphasizing that critical learning factors, such as the provision of appropriate mechanisms for feedback and support, need to be addressed if the possibilities for enhanced learning afforded by contextual changes are to be realized in practice.