bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ZnO nanowire field-effect transistor and oxygen sensing property
Authors: Fan Zhiyong , Wang Dawei , Chang Pai-Chun , Tseng Wei-Yu , Lu Jia G.
Published: December 2004

Single-crystal ZnO nanowires are synthesized using a vapor trapping chemical vapor deposition method and configured as field-effect transistors. Electrical transport studies show n-type semiconducting behavior with a carrier concentration of ∼107cm−1 and an electron mobility of ∼17cm2∕Vs. The contact Schottky barrier between the Au/Ni electrode and nanowire is determined from the temperature dependence of the conductance. Thermionic emission is found to dominate the transport mechanism. The effect of oxygen adsorption on electron transport through the nanowires is investigated. The sensitivity to oxygen is demonstrated to be higher with smaller radii nanowires. Moreover, the oxygen detection sensitivity can be modulated by the gate voltage. These results indicate that ZnO holds high potential for nanoscale sensing applications.
Vertical nanowire light-emitting diode
Authors: Könenkamp R. , Word Robert C. , Schlegel C.
Published: December 2004

We report room-temperature, white-color electroluminescence in vertically oriented ZnO nanowires. Excitonic luminescence around 380 nm is observed as a shoulder on a broader defect-related band covering all of the visible range and centered at 620 nm. The ZnO nanowires are grown in a low-temperature process on SnO2-coated glass substrates, employing a technique that is suitable for large-area applications. The nanowires are robustly encapsulated in a thin polystyrene film deposited from high-molecular-weight solutions. Electron injection occurs through the transparent SnO2 layer, while hole injection is mediated by a p-doped polymer and an evaporated Au contact. Stable device operation is observed at ambient conditions on the time scale of 1 h.
Near room temperature droplet epitaxy for fabrication of InAs quantum dots
Authors: Kim Jong Su , Koguchi Nobuyuki
Published: December 2004

By using the droplet epitaxy method, we succeed in fabricating the InAs quantum dots (QDs) with the spatial density of 4×1010∕cm2 and an average lateral size of 20nm on GaAs (001) at the droplets deposition temperature of 50°C and subsequent annealing process under As4 flux. These QDs shows the intense photoluminescence even at room temperature indicating that high-quality InAs QDs can be fabricated by near room temperature droplets deposition and crystallization process by 400°C in situ annealing.
SHOPPING AND FERVOUR: MODERN LITERATURE AND THE CONSUMER SOCIETY
Authors: Walker David H.
Published: December 2004

This essay considers the rise of the consumer society as articulated in sociological, cultural and literary discourses. The theories of Veblin, Sartre, Baudrillard and Lipovetsky are set alongside the observations of cultural commentators such as Barthes and Debord, and literary works are analysed in relation to themes and motifs they have in common with them. Nineteenth-century texts by Huysmans, Zola and Gide are seen to have affiliations in this regard with twentieth-century novels by Perec, Beauvoir and others. Themes treated include the predominance of the visual, the fantasmatic suppression of process in the production and consumption of commodities (and the anxieties this suppression can engender), the fetishization of newness, proliferation and the eroticization of availability. The depiction of disorders associated with consumerist mentalities opens on to considerations of existential and socio-economic debates which remain current, such as the nature of satisfaction; the relationship between choice and identity; desire and the self; and the problematic autonomy of the subject.
‘Crânement Beau Tout de Même’: Still Life and
Le Ventre de Paris
Authors: Tunstall Kate E.
Published: December 2004

This essay revisits the relationship between Zola’s descriptive techniques and painting by taking a detailed look at
Le Ventre de Paris
, and at one particular genre of painting, still life. The argument involves dissolving the easy identification between the painter Claude Lantier and the narrator in order to reveal the presence of visions of Les Halles other than Claude’s quasi-Impressionist one, to which much critical attention has been devoted. In a series of close readings of the visual descriptions, this essay reveals the presence of a Rococo aesthetic, implying parallels between the Second Empire and the eighteenth century; by exploring Florent's perspective on Les Halles in particular, it uncovers
vanitas
imagery and
memento mori
in which ‘nourriture’ is ‘pourriture’. To read
Le Ventre de Paris
is thus to be placed in a position analogous to that of the spectator in Holbein’s
The Ambassadors
, with its notorious anamorphosis; for, as the narrative perspective shifts between Claude and Florent, and as the descriptions evoke Impressionist, Rococo and early modern aesthetics, so the death's head flickers disconcertingly in and out of view.
Beyond the Cave: Lascaux and the Prehistoric in Post-War French Culture
Authors: Smith Douglas
Published: December 2004

Discovered in 1940 a few months after the military collapse of France, the prehistoric cave paintings of Lascaux were to become for many writers and artists of the post-war period a symbol of the twin births of art and
homo sapiens
. This new primitivism may be explained with reference to three contexts: the institutional recognition of Modernism by the French state; the Gaullist rehabilitation of national cultural identity after Vichy; and French resistance to growing American cultural hegemony. In each case, the cultural reconstruction of France privileges the originary moment symbolized by Lascaux. The work of Georges Bataille, René Char and Maurice Blanchot, however, explores and problematizes the originary status of prehistoric art in terms of anthropology, ontology and aesthetics. Far from providing a solid foundation for cultural reconstruction, Lascaux comes to represent the suspended and precarious nature of human existence in the post-war years and to function as a caution against the dangers implicit in the quest for cultural origins.
Initiation of Treatment and Selection of Antiepileptic Drugs in Childhood Epilepsy
Authors: Oka Eiji , Murakami Nagako , Ogino Tatsuya , Kobayashi Katsuhiro , Ohmori Iori , Akiyama Tomoyuki , Ito Minako
Published: December 2004

Summary:  Purpose: A retrospective study was carried out on 53 cases with childhood epilepsy to evaluate the validity of the initial selection of antiepileptic drug (AED).

Methods: We investigated the AEDs selected at the beginning of the treatment from the medical records of 53 untreated cases. A follow‐up study was undertaken to evaluate the effects of the AEDs. In the second study, we investigated the AEDs of 10 cases with atypical benign partial epilepsy (ABPE), to clarify whether the initial AEDs selected for rolandic epilepsy were related to the appearance of ABPE.

Results: The AEDs used at the initial stage consisted of carbamazepine (CBZ), valproic acid (VPA), phenobarbital (PB), and vitamin B6. The main AEDs were CBZ and VPA for localization‐related epilepsy, and VPA for generalized epilepsy. The initial selection of AEDs in 41 (85.4%) of 48 cases treated with AEDs were considered to be correct from the results of follow‐up. We could not specify any AEDs that related to the appearance of ABPE.

Conclusions: The selection of AED in this series was considered to be most appropriate. We proposed a criterion to determine whether to begin the AED treatment immediately at the initial seizure.
Epilepsy and Pregnancy
Authors: Oguni Miyako , Osawa Makiko
Published: December 2004

Summary:  Since 1963, the association between antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) and congenital malformations in the offspring of women with epilepsy has received attention. A number of articles reported affirmative as well as some negative findings regarding an increased risk of congenital malformations. Although a consensus has not been regarding the presence of the specific malformation syndromes in relation to individual AEDs, such as fetal hydantoin syndrome, it is evident that women taking AEDs carry a two‐ to sevenfold higher risk of congenital malformations than do the general population. In most recent studies, special attention has been placed on polytherapy, including the specific AED, or AED combinations, and high AED serum concentrations, responsible for the higher risk of congenital malformations. Based on these cumulative results, therapy guidelines for women of childbearing age with epilepsy have been established.
METHODOLOGICAL INSIGHT: Linking management changes to population dynamic responses: the transfer function of a projection matrix perturbation
Authors: HODGSON D. J. , TOWNLEY S.
Published: December 2004

An important task in applied population ecology is to understand how changes to individual life‐history parameters, such as survival, growth and fecundity, affect population dynamics. Parameter changes, or perturbations, may be caused by deliberate attempts to manage populations (e.g. in pest control, harvesting or conservation) or they may be side‐effects of pollution, genetic modification and climate change.

For organisms with complicated life cycles, links between individual life histories and population dynamics are made using population projection matrix (PPM) modelling.

Changes to individual, or groups of, life‐history transition rates within a PPM have a nonlinear impact on the resulting eigenvalues. Conventional sensitivity analysis calculates the derivative of the perturbation‐eigenvalue curve to provide tangential linear extrapolation. Until now, only the simulation of perturbed PPMs has captured nonlinear perturbation effects.

Here we describe the transfer function of a matrix perturbation. The transfer function captures analytically the true relationship between perturbation magnitude and PPM eigenvalues. This analytical link extends easily to multi‐transition and multiple perturbations, promotes an understanding of matrix properties, and provides a simple method to predict the perturbation required to achieve a desired population rate of increase.

We use the transfer function approach to analyse a PPM for the desert tortoise Gopherus agasizzii Cooper, in the context of conservation management decisions.

Synthesis and applications. The transfer function offers a novel and powerful framework for the analysis of population projection matrices (PPMs), giving precise predictive power and analytical understanding of population‐level responses to life‐history perturbations, for example in the design of conservation, pest control and population harvesting strategies, prediction of population effects of pollution in ecotoxicology, and in ecological risk assessment. A useful focus is to set a target for the desired rate of increase (or decline) of a population, and use the transfer function to determine how best to achieve this rate.
METHODOLOGICAL INSIGHTS: The role of satellite image‐processing for national‐scale estimates of gene flow from genetically modified crops: rapeseed in the UK as a model
Authors: ELLIOTT LUISA J. , MASON DAVID C. , WILKINSON MIKE J. , ALLAINGUILLAUME JOEL , NORRIS CAROL , ALEXANDER MATTHEW , WELTERS RUTH
Published: December 2004

There is concern over the possibility of unwanted environmental change following transgene movement from genetically modified (GM) rapeseed Brassica napus to its wild and weedy relatives.

The aim of this research was to develop a remote sensing‐assisted methodology to help quantify gene flow from crops to their wild relatives over wide areas. Emphasis was placed on locating sites of sympatry, where the frequency of gene flow is likely to be highest, and on measuring the size of rapeseed fields to allow spatially explicit modelling of wind‐mediated pollen‐dispersal patterns.

Remote sensing was used as a tool to locate rapeseed fields, and a variety of image‐processing techniques was adopted to facilitate the compilation of a spatially explicit profile of sympatry between the crop and Brassica rapa.

Classified satellite images containing rapeseed fields were first used to infer the spatial relationship between donor rapeseed fields and recipient riverside B. rapa populations. Such images also have utility for improving the efficiency of ground surveys by identifying probable sites of sympatry. The same data were then also used for the calculation of mean field size.

This paper forms a companion paper to Wilkinson et al. (2003), in which these elements were combined to produce a spatially explicit profile of hybrid formation over the UK. The current paper demonstrates the value of remote sensing and image processing for large‐scale studies of gene flow, and describes a generic method that could be applied to a variety of crops in many countries.

Synthesis and applications. The decision to approve or prevent the release of a GM cultivar is made at a national rather than regional level. It is highly desirable that data relating to the decision‐making process are collected at the same scale, rather than relying on extrapolation from smaller experiments designed at the plot, field or even regional scale. It would be extremely difficult and labour intensive to attempt to carry out such large‐scale investigations without the use of remote‐sensing technology. This study used rapeseed in the UK as a model to demonstrate the value of remote sensing in assembling empirical information at a national level.
Mapping uncertainty: sensitivity of wildlife habitat ratings to expert opinion
Authors: JOHNSON CHRIS J. , GILLINGHAM MICHAEL P.
Published: December 2004

Expert opinion is frequently called upon by natural resource and conservation professionals to aid decision making. Where species are difficult or expensive to monitor, expert knowledge often serves as the foundation for habitat suitability models and resulting maps. Despite the long history and widespread use of expert‐based models, there has been little recognition or assessment of uncertainty in predictions.

Across British Columbia, Canada, expert‐based habitat suitability models help guide resource planning and development. We used Monte Carlo simulations to identify the most sensitive parameters in a wildlife habitat ratings model, the precision of ratings for a number of ecosystem units, and variation in the total area of high‐quality habitats due to uncertainty in expert opinion.

The greatest uncertainty in habitat ratings resulted from simulations conducted using a uniform distribution and a standard deviation calculated from the range of possible scores for the model attributes. For most ecological units, the mean score, following 1000 simulations, varied considerably from the reported value. When applied across the study area, assumed variation in expert opinion resulted in dramatic decreases in the geographical area of high‐ (−85%) and moderately high‐quality habitats (−68%). The majority of habitat polygons could vary by up to one class (85%) with smaller percentages varying by up to two classes (9%) or retaining their original rank (7%). Our model was based on only four parameters, but no variable consistently accounted for the majority of uncertainty across the study area.

Synthesis and applications. We illustrated the power of uncertainty and sensitivity analyses to improve or assess the reliability of predictive species distribution models. Results from our case study suggest that even simple expert‐based predictive models can be sensitive to variation in opinion. The magnitude of uncertainty that is tolerable to decision making, however, will vary depending on the application of the model. When presented as error bounds for individual predictions or maps of uncertainty across landscapes, estimates of uncertainty allow managers and conservation professionals to determine if the model and input data reliably support their particular decision‐making process.
Finding optimal control strategies for invasive species: a density‐structured model forSpartina alterniflora
Authors: TAYLOR CAZ M. , HASTINGS ALAN
Published: December 2004

There are very few general guidelines available to improve the process of eradicating invasive species. We addressed the basic question of whether it is more efficient to prioritize the removal of outliers or core populations of an invasive grass,Spartina alterniflora.

We used a structured model in which the population of the invasive species is partitioned into different classes based on local conspecific density in order to investigate density‐based eradication strategies.

TheSpartinapopulation at a Pacific coast estuary in Washington state, USA, is subject to an Allee effect: at low density plants produce fewer propagules than in high‐density coalesced meadows. Plants at low density, however, are able to spread faster vegetatively. We used a genetic algorithm to find the optimal division of resources between removal of high‐density and low‐density plants. We explored the consequences of the Allee effect, contrasting financial budgets available for control operations and the inclusion of seedling control in addition to the control of mature plants.

We found that the optimal strategy was dependent on the annual budget available for control. At low and medium budgets, it was necessary to remove the low‐density plants first to achieve eradication, but if more money was available then the optimal strategy was to prioritize high‐density areas.

Without an Allee effect the optimal strategy would always be to prioritize the removal of fast‐growing, low‐density sub‐populations. Seedling control did not change the optimal strategy but did, in some cases, reduce the cost of eradication.

Synthesis and applications. Given the uncertainty in future budgets allocated for control of invasiveSpartina, we recommend a strategy that prioritizes the removal of low‐density subpopulations ofS. alternifloraover high‐density subpopulations. The Allee effect in this system is not sufficiently strong to outweigh the importance of the rapid vegetative spread of the plants at low density.
Ecological requirements of reintroduced species and the implications for release policy: the case of the bearded vulture
Authors: HIRZEL ALEXANDRE H. , POSSE BERTRAND , OGGIER PIERRE‐ALAIN , CRETTENAND YVON , GLENZ CHRISTIAN , ARLETTAZ RAPHAËL
Published: December 2004

Species undergoing reintroduction offer a unique opportunity for clarifying their specific niche requirements because they are likely, if sufficiently mobile, to colonize the most suitable habitats first. Information drawn from the individuals released first might thus be essential for optimizing species’ policy as reintroductions proceed.

Bearded vultures were extirpated from the European Alps about a century ago. An international reintroduction programme using birds reared in captivity was launched in 1986; up to 2003, 121 individuals had been released at four different locations. Subsequent dispersion throughout the range has been far from homogeneous, resulting in a clumped occurrence of the first breeding pairs within three main zones that do not necessarily coincide with release areas.

In order to discern ecological requirements we performed a geographical information system (GIS) analysis of bearded vulture sightings collected in Valais (Swiss Alps) from 1987 to 2001. This area harbours no release site, is situated in the core of the Alpine range and has been visited by birds from all four release points.

During the prospecting phase (1987–94, mostly immature birds), the most important variable explaining bearded vulture distribution was ibex biomass. During the settling phase (1995–2001), the presence of birds (mostly maturing subadults) correlated essentially with limestone substrates, while food abundance became secondary.

The selection of craggy limestone zones by maturing bearded vultures might reflect nesting sites that are well protected against adverse weather, as egg laying takes place in the winter. Limestone landscapes, in contrast to silicate substrates, also provide essential finely structured screes that are used for bone breaking and temporary food storage, particularly during chick rearing. Finally, limestone substrates provide the best thermal conditions for soaring.

Synthesis and applications. Extrapolated to the whole Alpine range, these findings might explain both the current distribution of the subadult/adult population and the absence of breeding records for bearded vultures around release sites in landscapes dominated by silicate substrates. As reintroduced bearded vultures tend to be philopatric, we suggest that population restoration would be more efficient if releases were concentrated within large limestone massifs. This case study of the bearded vulture illustrates the need for continual adaptive management in captive release programmes.
Parthenium dermatitis: is it a systemic contact dermatitis or an airborne contact dermatitis?
Authors: Mahajan Vikram K. , Sharma Nand Lal , Sharma Ramesh Chander
Published: December 2004

We describe here a Parthenium hysterophorus patch‐test‐positive patient with widespread dermatitis of non‐airborne contact dermatitis pattern, improving while staying in Shimla (a parthenium‐free area) and rapidly worsening while visiting his native place, where there was exuberant parthenium growth. After recovery, inhalation of fresh plant material from a polythene bag resulted in exacerbation of dermatitis and pruritus within 8–10 hr, without any respiratory symptoms. The possible pathomechanism of such a phenomenon is discussed.
Contact allergy to isoeugenol and its derivatives: problems with allergen substitution
Authors: Tanaka S. , Royds C. , Buckley D. , Basketter D. A. , Goossens A. , Bruze M. , Svedman C. , Menné T. , Johansen J. D. , White I. R. , McFadden J. P.
Published: December 2004

A total of 2261 (808 male, 1453 female) consecutive patients attending contact dermatitis clinics were patch tested to isoeugenol and its derivatives listed in the EU Inventory of Fragrance Ingredients. Positive reactions were found to isoeugenol in 40, transisoeugenol in 40, isoeugenyl acetate in 19, isoeugenyl benzoate in 4, isoeugenyl phenylacetate in 16, isoeugenyl methyl ether in 6 and benzyl isoeugenyl ether in 2 patients. There was a concomitant reaction to isoeugenol in 36/40 of those positive to transisoeugenol, 13/19 of those to isoeugenyl acetate, 3/4 of those to isoeugenyl benzoate and 15/16 of those to isoeugenyl phenylacetate but in none of those 6 positive to isoeugenyl methyl ether and in neither of those 2 positive to benzyl isoeugenyl ether. Concomitant contact allergy between isoeugenol and its derivatives may occur through chemical cross‐reactivity or local skin metabolism of the derivatives. It is more commonly observed with the esters rather than the ethers. Isoeugenyl acetate has been proposed as an alternative to isoeugenol, but there is a high degree of concomitant reactivity with isoeugenol.
The MOAHLFA index of irritant sodium lauryl sulfate reactions: first results of a multicentre study on routine sodium lauryl sulfate patch testing
Authors: Uter Wolfgang , Geier Johannes , Becker Detlef , Brasch Jochen , Löffler Harald ,   for the german contact dermatitis research group (dkg) and the information network of departments of dermatology (ivdk)
Published: December 2004

In a multicentre study of the German Contact Dermatitis Research Group, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) 0.25% and 0.5% aq. has been added to routine allergen patch tests to assess its properties as a convenient diagnostic indicator of individual susceptibility to irritation at the time of patch testing. Previous studies indicated that irritant SLS reactivity may be related to individual factors such as age and sex. As these factors are, in turn, among the important predictors of contact allergy to many allergens, e.g. summarized in the ‘MOAHLFA index’, the impact of the MOAHLFA factors on irritant SLS patch test reactivity, and thus a potential for confounding, was assessed in the 5971 participating patients. As a result of 2 logistic regression analyses with an irritant reaction to 0.25% and 0.5% SLS, respectively, as outcome, male sex was identified as a relatively weak but significant risk factor (OR 1.38), while age 40 years or older was an even weaker risk factor (OR 1.22 and 1.15, respectively). Upon detailed analysis, no clear age gradient could, however, be identified. 1‐day exposure time almost halved the odds of an irritant SLS reaction. In conclusion, this type of SLS patch test can be regarded as robust, indicating individual irritability relatively independent from the individual factors analysed here.
POOR NUTRITIONAL STATUS AND INFLAMMATION: The Evidence Against Malnutrition as a Prominent Problem for Chronic Dialysis Patients
Authors: Ahuja Tejinder S. , Mitch William E.
Published: December 2004

A large number of dialysis patients have been classified as being malnourished because of anthropometric measurements and laboratory values that are similar to those in patients with protein‐energy malnutrition. Malnutrition implies that abnormalities can be reversed with better nutrition. However, this approach of providing more nutrients in the diet has been unsuccessful in reversing these changes, suggesting that a diagnosis of malnutrition is generally a misdiagnosis for dialysis patients In this review we discuss mechanisms that cause a loss of protein stores, muscle mass, albumin, and other plasma proteins in dialysis patients. We also review the shortcomings of techniques that are used to measure the nutritional status of these patients.
POOR NUTRITIONAL STATUS AND INFLAMMATION: C‐Reactive Protein and End‐Stage Renal Disease
Authors: Lacson Eduardo , Levin Nathan W.
Published: December 2004

The significance of CRP and inflammation has increased over time, especially in the end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) population. From a simple marker it now appears that CRP is an active participant in pro‐atherosclerotic phenomenon including local pro‐inflammatory and thrombotic events. Studies in the general population indicate the usefulness of CRP in prognostication and in monitoring response to therapy. The clinical usefulness of CRP monitoring in chronic kidney disease (CKD) and especially in ESRD deserves closer study. In the meantime, the utility of CRP measurements for monitoring and treatment is on a case‐by‐case basis. Management of traditional cardiovascular risk factors should be considered. In the interest of optimizing therapy it is prudent to use biocompatible membranes and ultrapure water. A careful search for infectious processes in dialysis patients is recommended, with special attention to vascular access sites, periodontitis, gastritis, and other potentially chronic or covert infections. ACE‐inhibitor use should be maximized in all eligible CKD patients. The data on the use of statins in ESRD have been generally positive but await further validation. Individualized use for selected patients is probably beneficial.
POOR NUTRITIONAL STATUS AND INFLAMMATION: Protein and Energy: Recommended Intake and Nutrient Supplementation in Chronic Dialysis Patients
Authors: Ikizler T. Alp
Published: December 2004

Nutritional status is an important predictor of clinical outcome in end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) patients, especially in patients on chronic hemodialysis. Uremic malnutrition is strongly associated with increased risk of death and hospitalization events in this patient population, and decreased muscle mass is the most significant predictor of these outcomes. Several factors that influence protein metabolism predispose chronic hemodialysis patients to increased catabolism and loss of lean body mass. The available evidence suggests that low protein and energy intake associated with advanced uremia along with catabolic consequences of dialytic therapies can lead to the development of uremic malnutrition. Recent studies show that the hemodialysis procedure induces a net protein catabolic state at the whole‐body level as well as skeletal muscle. There is evidence to suggest that these undesirable effects are due to decreased protein synthesis and increased proteolysis. Provision of nutrients, either in the form of intradialytic parenteral nutrition or oral feeding during hemodialysis, can adequately compensate for the catabolic effects of the hemodialysis procedure. While the mechanisms of these effects are not studied in detail, changes in extracellular amino acid concentrations, along with certain anabolic hormones such as insulin, are important mediators of these actions.
Categorization and validation of handedness using latent class analysis
Authors: Dragovic Milan
Published: December 2004

Background:

A view that handedness is not a dichotomous, i.e. left–right, phenomenon is shared by majority of researchers. However, there are different opinions about the exact number of hand-preference categories and criteria that should be used for their classification.

Objectives:

This study examined hand-preference categories using the latent class analysis (LCA) and validated them against two external criteria (i.e. hand demonstration test and a series of arbitrary cut-off points).

Method:

The Edinburgh Handedness Inventory was applied to 354 individuals randomly selected from the general population, and the obtained data were analysed using the LatentGOLD software.

Results:

Three discrete hand-preference clusters were identified, i.e. left-, right- and mixed-handed category. Further subdivision of hand-preference clusters resulted in a non-parsimonious subcategorization of individuals. There was a good agreement between the LCA-based classification and classification based on hand-preference demonstration tests. The highest agreement between the LCA model and the different types of arbitrary classification criteria ranged between 0 ± 50 and 0 ± 70 of the laterality quotient.

Conclusions:

The study findings supported the view that handedness is not a bimodal phenomenon. However, definitions and subcategorizations of mixed-handedness using the cut-off points that are outside of the recommended range may lead to misclassification of cases. It is hoped that the categorization and validation of handedness developed in the context of this study will make future research in this area less dependent on arbitrary values and criteria.
The Effect of Helicobacter pylori Infection and Dietary Iron Deficiency on Host Iron Homeostasis: A Study in Mice
Authors: Keenan J. I. , Peterson R. A. , Fraser R. , Frampton C. M. , Walmsley T. A. , Allardyce R. A. , Roake J. A.
Published: December 2004

Background.  Helicobacter pylori, which requires iron to survive, may cause host iron deficiency by directly competing with the host for available iron or by impairing iron uptake as a consequence of atrophy‐associated gastric hypochlorhydria. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of H. pylori infection and dietary iron deficiency on host iron homeostasis in a mouse model.

Materials and Methods.  H. pylori SS1‐infected and uninfected C57BL/6 mice, fed either a normal diet or an iron‐deficient diet, were assessed for iron status and infection‐associated gastritis over a 30‐week period.

Results.  After 10 weeks, serum ferritin values were higher in H. pylori‐infected mice than in uninfected controls, irrespective of dietary iron intake (p = .04). The infection‐related increase in body iron stores persisted in the iron‐replete mice but diminished over time in mice with restricted dietary iron intake (p < .0001). At 30 weeks serum ferritin levels were lower in these animals (p = .063). No significant difference in bacterial numbers was detected at the 30‐week time point (p > .05) and the histological changes observed were consistently associated with infection (p < .01) and not with the iron status of the mice (p = .771).

Conclusions.  Infection with H. pylori did not cause iron deficiency in iron‐replete mice. However, diminished iron stores in mice as a result of limited dietary iron intake were further lowered by concurrent infection, thus indicating that H. pylori competes successfully with the host for available iron.
Carvone and less volatile analogues as repellent and deterrent antifeedants against the pine weevil, Hylobius abietis
Authors: Schlyter F. , Smitt O. , Sjödin K. , Högberg H.‐E. , Löfqvist J.
Published: December 2004

Abstract:  The monoterpenoid carvone (1) has been shown to have strong antifeedant effects on Hylobius spp. However, because of the high volatility of carvone, long‐time protection of conifer seedlings in the field using this compound has not been possible. We demonstrate, in several bioassay steps, that less‐volatile, heavier analogues retain their pre‐ingestive feeding inhibition activity in the large pine weevil, Hylobius abietis (L.) for a longer time. The first step in the evaluation of the biological activity of 12 carvone analogues was a micro‐assay, a choice test lasting 4 h. Compounds active at 100 nmol/cm2 were further dose–response tested to give the effective dose needed to inhibit feeding by 50% (ED50). Of the 14 compounds tested, including both carvone enantiomers, seven heavier analogues were active at low doses (had low ED50 values). As expected from their lower vapour pressure compared with carvone, the heavier analogues proved more resistant to evaporation before testing. Thus, whereas the effect of 8‐hydroxy‐p‐menth‐en‐6‐one 4 declined after 2 days, some of the compounds with high molar masses, such as the alkylhydroxymenthenones 6 and 8, retained a stable activity for 4 days. The retained activity at 4 days was strongly correlated to molecular mass and boiling point. When tested on natural material (host Pinus sylvestris L. twig sections for 48 h), the heavier analogues showed a rather low activity. Probably, the activity of the more volatile compound carvone (1) is due to a repellent effect (olfactory mode) rather than the deterrent effects (gustatory mode) of the heavier compounds. In agreement with the relatively low activity on twigs in the laboratory, the hydroxymenthenone 4 was not active in the field when tested for 2 months as a 1 : 9 mixture with a polar wax.
Life‐cycle characteristics of Tetrastichus turionum, a parasitoid of the European pine shoot moth, Rhyacionia buoliana
Authors: Huerta A. , Robredo F. , Diez J. , Pajares J. A.
Published: December 2004

Abstract:  The life cycle of Tetrastichus turionum, a pupal endoparasitoid of the European pine shoot moth Rhyacionia buoliana, was studied in Spain in the field, prior to its use as a potential biological control agent of this pest in Chile. T. turionum showed two generations acting on the same host generation. Adults from the overwintering generation emerged and dispersed from mid‐ to late spring and gave rise to a fast developing, current year generation. Adults of this generation emerged and oviposited in early to mid‐summer, producing progeny that overwintered as fourth instar larvae inside their host. Both generations appeared highly synchronized to the presence of pupae in the host population. The role of decreasing day length in the induction of diapause is also discussed. Laboratory bioassays showed that T. turionum did not oviposit on R. buoliana larvae already parasitized by Orgilus obscurator, a major larval parasitoid, already introduced in Chile. The results reinforce the suitability of T. turionum as a promising parasitoid that would complement O. obscurator in the biological control of European pine shoot moth.
Influence of parental age on reproductive performance of an aphidophagous ladybird, Propylea dissecta (Mulsant)
Authors: Mishra G. , Omkar
Published: December 2004

Abstract:  In the present study the influence of maternal and paternal ages on reproductive performance of an aphidophagous ladybird, Propylea dissecta (Mulsant) were investigated. Maternal age strongly influenced fecundity and pre‐oviposition period while paternal age strongly influenced the egg viability. Maternal age also influenced percent egg viability, however, at lower levels of significance. The results revealed that the fecundity and percent egg viability increased up to the respective maternal and paternal ages of 30 days and thereafter declined, indicating the onset of senescence. The results of the present study can help in better mass multiplication of the ladybird concerned and in laying foundation for further age‐related studies.
A Real‐time PCR Assay Based Method for Routine Diagnosis of Spongospora subterranea on Potato Tubers
Authors: Ward L. I. , Beales P. A. , Barnes A. V. , Lane C. R.
Published: December 2004

A method is described for the routine diagnosis of Spongospora subterranea on potato tubers. Accurate diagnosis of powdery scab can be difficult and usually relies on observation of resting spores (cystosori) within the scab lesions on diseased tubers. A fast automated extraction method was combined with a real‐time PCR assay using TaqMan® chemistry to improve and advance routine diagnosis of powdery scab on tubers. The diagnostic assay was made more reliable by using as an internal control potato DNA (cytochrome oxidase) which took into account differences in extraction efficiency and guarded against false negative results. The diagnostic assay was validated by testing 37 scabbed tuber samples of various cultivars collected from fields in different locations in the UK. The assay successfully detected S. subterranea in all samples with suspected powdery scab; it also detected S. subterranea in tubers in which cystosori were present and in tubers in which cystosori were not observed. The TaqMan assay was found to be at least 100 times more sensitive than conventional PCR and ELISA.
Dispersal of Venturia inaequalis Ascospores and Disease Gradients from a Defined Inoculum Source
Authors: Holb I. J. , Heijne B. , Withagen J. C. M. , Jeger M. J.
Published: December 2004

Aerial concentration of ascospores of Venturia inaequalis and incidence of apple scab were monitored in an orchard during the ascospore release seasons in 1999, 2000 and 2001 on susceptible (Jonagold) and moderately resistant (Schone van Boskoop) apple cultivars. A 1‐ha orchard was divided into an inoculum source block (approximately 0.34 ha) and an inoculum‐free block (approximately 0.66 ha) where inoculum was excluded by covering the soil surface with polythene sheets. Ascospore numbers and disease incidence were measured within the inoculum‐free block at different distances from the inoculum block. Ascospores were sampled with three Burkard volumetric spore traps located at 0, 21 and 45 m from the border of the inoculum block. To determine the incidence of infection, clusters of leaves were assessed at six distances from the border of the infected source from the time the first symptoms appeared. Each year, the aerial ascospore concentration significantly decreased with distance from the source, as did the incidence of infected clusters. Cultivar susceptibility to apple scab markedly influenced incidence of infected clusters and disease gradients. The effect of horizontal distance from the source was identifiable up to 18 m and 33 m for cv. Schone van Boskoop and cv. Jonagold, respectively, beyond which disease was negligible. The disease gradients for cultivar Jonagold in 1999, 2000 and 2001 were well described by an exponential model with gradient coefficients of −0.036, −0.042 and −0.047, respectively. The number of infected clusters at the source border for this cultivar differed significantly over the 3 years. A single exponential model with a gradient coefficient of −0.035 adequately described the disease gradients for cultivar Schone van Boskoop in each of the 3 years. Further analysis showed highly significant correlations (r > 0.85, P < 0.01) between the annual cumulative spore catches and the annual mean number of infected leaf clusters in each year and for both cultivars. The aerobiological and epidemiological implications of these findings are discussed.
Molecular Characterization of DNAβ Molecules Associated with Tobacco Leaf Curl Yunnan Virus*
Authors: Cui X. F. , Xie Y. , Zhou X. P.
Published: December 2004

Tobacco leaf curl Yunnan virus (TbLCYNV) isolates Y136 and Y143 were both shown to contain DNAβ molecules. Seven DNAβ molecules, each consisting of 1334–1341 nucleotides, were cloned and characterized. Sequence comparison showed that they were of two main types: type 1 included five DNAβ molecules with 75–99% overall nucleotide sequence identity, and type 2 included two DNAβ molecules with >99% overall nucleotide sequence identity. Only 52–54% nucleotide identity was found between the two types of DNAβ molecules. The two isolates were associated with both types of DNAβ. A relationship dendrogram analysis showed that type 1 DNAβ molecules clustered with the DNAβ molecules of Tomato yellow leaf curl China virus, whereas type 2 DNAβ molecules clustered with the DNAβ of Tomato yellow leaf curl Thailand virus. Evidence was also provided that type 2 DNAβ molecules may have arisen by recombination between the DNAβ of Tobacco curly shoot virus and another unidentified virus. To date, only a single type of DNAβ molecule had been found to be associated with one begomovirus. The possible reasons of TbLCYNV associated with two types of DNAβ molecules are discussed.
Identification and Molecular Characterization of Viruses Infecting Cucurbits in Pakistan
Authors: Ali A. , Natsuaki T. , Okuda S.
Published: December 2004

Cucurbits are grown throughout the North‐West Frontier Province of Pakistan as summer and winter crops. Plants having mosaic, mottling, chlorosis and leaf distortion symptoms were frequently found in most of the cucurbit fields during the survey. Using dot immunobinding assay, Cucumber green mottle mosaic virus (CGMMV), Zucchini yellow mosaic virus (ZYMV), Watermelon mosaic virus (WMV) and Papaya ringspot virus (PRSV) were found infecting cucurbits. CGMMV was widespread, infecting 46.9% of the samples tested followed by ZYMV (14.8%), WMV (12.5%) and PRSV (7.8%). Multiple infections were common with 42% of the samples being infected with two viruses and 8% with three viruses. The nucleotide sequences of the coat protein (CP) genes of these four viruses were determined and deduced amino acid sequence comparisons revealed 88.3–99% similarity of the ZYMV‐Pak isolate with other isolates of ZYMV reported worldwide. The amino acid sequence identity of Pakistani isolates of WMV, CGMMV and PRSV ranged from 96.8 to 98.4%, 98.1 to 99.4% and 79.3 to 84.2%, respectively, with other isolates reported elsewhere. Little variability was observed in the sequences of WMV and CGMMV. ZYMV‐Pak was very close to the USA isolate, and the PRSV‐Pak isolate was close to Indian isolates of PRSV possibly reflecting the geographical relationship between these isolates.
Anesthetic management of the complications of previously undiagnosed ingested foreign body in a pediatric patient
Authors: S Somerville Nicola , Mearns Clare , Chin Chris , Blaney Sean , Anderson David
Published: December 2004

A case of a previously undiagnosed ingested foreign body, subsequent acquired tracheoesophageal fistula and airway obstruction in a pediatric patient is described. We suggest that the capability to provide cardiopulmonary bypass was a key factor in this patient's survival.
S‐ketamine and s‐norketamine plasma concentrations after nasal and i.v. administration in anesthetized children
Authors: WEBER FRANK , WULF HINNERK , GRUBER MICHAEL , BIALLAS RALF
Published: December 2004

Background : It has been suggested that nasal administration of s‐ketamine may be used to improve sedation or premedication in combination with nasal midazolam in pediatric patients. In this study we measured and compared plasma concentrations of s‐ketamine and its main metabolite s‐norketamine after nasal and i.v. administration in preschool children.

Methods : During sevoflurane anaesthesia, 20 children, aged 1–7 years, weight 11–25 kg, received s‐ketamine 2 mg·kg−1 either intranasally (Group IN, n = 10), or i.v. (Group IV, n = 10). Six venous blood samples were obtained up to 60 min after drug administration for measurement of s‐ketamine and s‐norketamine plasma concentrations.

Results : Plasma concentrations [mean ± sd] of s‐ketamine in group IN peaked at 355 ± 172 ng·ml−1 within 18 ± 13 min. vs. 1860 ± 883 ng·ml−1 within 3 ± 1 min. in group IV (P < 0.01). Plasma concentrations of s‐norketamine in group IN peaked at 90 ± 128 ng·ml−1 within 50 ± 11 min. vs. 429 ± 277 ng·ml−1 within 40 ± 16 min. in group IV (P < 0.01). One child in group IN experienced rapid and high level s‐ketamine absorption with a peak plasma concentration of 732 ng·ml−1 after 2 min., which decreased to 274 ng·ml−1 after 60 min. Systolic blood pressure and heart rate remained unaltered in both study groups after s‐ketamine administration.

Conclusions : Nasal administration of s‐ketamine 2 mg·kg−1 results in a wide spread of plasma concentrations and absorption times. Rapid and high level drug absorption after nasal drug administration is possible. The use of a pulse oximeter and continuous observation after nasal administration of s‐ketamine for pediatric premedication is recommended.
Clinical signs of infection during continuous postoperative epidural analgesia in children: the value of catheter tip culture
Authors: SETH N. , MACQUEEN S. , HOWARD R. F.
Published: December 2004

Background : Infection arising from the use of epidural catheters for postoperative analgesia is a major source of anxiety.

Methods : The routine culture of epidural catheter tips were studied in 100 consecutive children aged 1 day to 15 years.

Epidural catheters were inserted aseptically in accordance with an agreed protocol. The catheter site was inspected regularly and the tip sent for microbiological culture following removal.

Results : Local signs of inflammation at the epidural site were seen in 16% of children, and bacteria were isolated from catheter tip culture in 32%. Positive catheter tip culture was found in 43% of children with local signs of inflammation and of the remaining children with no local signs, organisms were isolated from the catheter tip in 30%. Culture of skin swabs and catheter tips in two patients with purulent discharge at the epidural site yielded the same organism. No correlation between the number of attempts at catheter insertion and either local signs of inflammation or positive catheter tip cultures were found.

Conclusions : Minor local signs of inflammation and infection are common in pediatric patients during continuous epidural infusion. Epidural catheter tips are also frequently culture positive in patients with and without local signs and who may not go on to develop further signs or symptoms of infection. Routine culture of catheter tips is unnecessary as it is not a good predictor of epidural space infection.
Toward public value?
Authors: Smith RFI , Anderson Eve , Teicher Julian
Published: December 2004

Selected articles from a conference organised by the Department of Management at Monash University in November 2003 entitled ‘Toward Public Value? Management and Employement for Outcomes’.
Regulating markets: Marketing regulation
Authors: Fels Allan
Published: December 2004

This article discusses the interrelationship between the role of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) in regulating business behaviour and the role of the ACCC in dealing with the political environment. To do this I use a strategy framework of analysis.
An evaluation of Internet use policies of Victorian local government
Authors: Liaskos Jim , Sandy Geoffrey A
Published: December 2004

The Internet has provided employees and organisations with many benefits. However, employee misuse of Internet services has also become increasingly common. A solution to combating this problem is the implementation of an Internet Use Policy (IUP) within an organisation. This study developed IUP guidelines that were used to evaluate existing Victorian local government authority (LGA) IUPs. The number of LGAs without policies was then determined in February 2001. The findings revealed 36 per cent of Victorian LGAs did not have an IUP implemented. Fifty‐one per cent of rural LGAs were found not to have IUPs. Furthermore, policies when compared with the IUP guidelines revealed deficiencies in many areas. A follow‐up review was then conducted in 2004. It revealed that only 6 per cent of LGAs now lacked policies.