bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An integrated review of the literature on challenges confronting the acute care staff nurse in discharge planning
Authors: Nosbusch Jane M , Weiss Marianne E , Bobay Kathleen L
Published: October 2010

Aims and objectives.  This integrative review presents and synthesises previous research investigating practices, perceptions and experiences of bedside staff nurses relative to hospital discharge planning.

Background.  Preparation for hospital discharge should begin at or prior to admission. Forces in the acute care environment, however, often impede comprehensive discharge planning. Evidence‐based redesign of discharge planning processes is a priority for nurses and health care leaders.

Design.  An integrative review.

Method.  The review was undertaken using eleven search terms to electronically scan CINAHL, Medline, PsycINFO and Dissertations and Theses databases for the period 1990–2009. Hand searching of reference lists and author searches was also conducted. Sixty English language articles were reviewed; 38 of these 60 publications met the study inclusion criteria.

Results.  Seven themes were identified across the studies. These themes were intra‐ and interdisciplinary communication; systems and structures; time; role confusion; care continuity; knowledge; and the invisibility of the staff nurse role in discharge planning.

Conclusions.  Acute care bedside nurses frequently encounter significant barriers while providing discharge‐related care. Although these barriers have been identified consistently in numerous studies spanning nearly two decades, few published reports address interventions designed to overcome identified obstacles and inefficiencies. Additional discharge planning redesign initiatives, which include rigorous evaluation of patient outcomes, are needed.

Relevance to clinical practice.  As the direct caregivers with the most consistent presence and knowledge of patients’ postdischarge needs, acute care bedside staff nurses play a critical role in preparing patients and families for the transition from hospital to home. Nurses are uniquely positioned to identify barriers and opportunities in discharge planning processes and contribute significantly to evidence‐based reform initiatives. Effective and efficient patient‐centred discharge planning processes can facilitate the transition from hospital to home and begin to address the adverse events experienced by some patients in the immediate postdischarge period.
Comparison of prenatal education delivered by nurses in Ankara (Turkey) and New Orleans (USA)
Authors: Ustunsoz Ayfer , Senel Nur , Pollock Christine A
Published: October 2010

Aim.  This research was planned to compare prenatal education delivered by nurses in Ankara (Turkey) and New Orleans (USA).

Background.  Prenatal education can increase awareness and improve the knowledge about risks factors and complications of pregnant women. Therefore, prenatal education is an important determinant of improved health outcomes of infants and of reduced maternal mortality.

Design.  A descriptive survey.

Methods.  This descriptive study was performed in various obstetrics clinics and antenatal outpatient clinics between April 2002–April 2003. The sample included all graduate nurses in prenatal units who gave their informed consent to participate. A demographic data form to collect data and a prenatal education checklist were prepared by the investigator.

Results.  There was a significant difference in the educational levels of the nurses both in nursing education and in special courses as preparation to present prenatal education. The topics addressed during the prenatal education also differ significantly. The nurses in the USA mostly had a master’s degree, while the nurses in Turkey mostly had two years of education after college. There was a significant difference between the two countries related to the qualification for giving prenatal education and having a certificate.

Conclusion.  There was a significant difference between the educational preparation of presenting nurses as well as the content of prenatal education in Ankara, Turkey and New Orleans, USA. Turkish nurses may benefit from an educational programme to prepare them to present prenatal education that may improve the knowledge of pregnant women and eventually lead to reduced maternal and infant mortality.

Relevance to clinical practice.  The quality of the care provided by the nurses and midwives working in the prenatal area will increase following specific standardised training for becoming proficient.
Is the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) an appropriate screening tool for use in an alcohol‐dependent population?
Authors: McPherson Andrew , Martin Colin R
Published: October 2010

Aims.  To examine the psychometric properties of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale in selected research to determine the suitability of this instrument for use in an alcohol‐dependent population.

Background.  Anxiety and depression represent a significant comorbid problem encountered with alcohol dependency. Effective screening for clinically relevant anxiety and depression is crucial for tailoring effective treatment intervention. However, no guidance exists to suggest the most appropriate screening measure in this clinical group.

Design.  Narrative review.

Methods.  Three criteria were used: factor analysis, test–retest reliability and internal consistency reliability.

Results.  Factor analysis studies highlighted a mostly bi‐dimensional model or a tripartite model, with only a couple of exceptions. Test–retest reliability came from only five studies, and while they all showed significantly positive correlated scores, only one study fulfilled criteria for a good or efficient reliability measure. The last evaluation, internal consistency reliability, faired much better in terms of recommended scores for reliability. Nearly all the studies showed a high level of internal consistency reliability.

Conclusion.  It is concluded that the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale is likely to be a suitable screening tool for use in an alcohol‐dependent population.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Effective screening for anxiety and depression can significantly enhance treatment efficacy when working with those patients presenting with alcohol dependency. This review suggests that the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale may be an appropriate instrument to use in this group based on observation of the tools measurement characteristics.
Correlation between mutations in the core and NS5A genes of hepatitis C virus genotypes 1a, 1b, 3a, 3b, 6f and the response to pegylated interferon and ribavirin combination therapy
Authors: Kumthip K. , Pantip C. , Chusri P. , Thongsawat S. , O’Brien A. , Nelson K. E. , Maneekarn N.
Published: October 2010

Summary.  Several studies have reported correlation between mutations in core and NS5A proteins of hepatitis C virus (HCV) and response to interferon (IFN) therapy. In particular, mutations in NS5A protein have been shown to correlate with responsiveness to IFN treatment of HCV‐1b in Japanese patients. This study investigated whether amino acid (aa) mutations in the core and NS5A proteins of HCV‐1a, 1b, 3a, 3b and 6f correlated with the response to pegylated interferon (Peg‐IFN) plus ribavirin (RBV) therapy in Thai patients. The entire sequences of core and NS5A of HCV from 76 HCV‐infected patients were analysed in comparison with corresponding reference sequences. The data revealed that the number of aa mutations in full‐length NS5A, its C‐terminus, IFN sensitivity‐determining region, variable region 3 (V3) and V3 plus flanking region of HCV‐1b NS5A protein were significantly higher in responders than in the treatment failure group (P =0.010, 0.031, 0.046, 0.020 and 0.006, respectively). Similar results were found in a putative protein kinase R binding domain region in HCV‐6f NS5A protein (P =0.022). Moreover, specific aa substitutions in NS5A that appeared to be associated with responders or the treatment failure group were observed at positions 78 and 305 for HCV‐1b (P =0.028), 64 and 52 for HCV‐1a (P =0.033) and 6f (P =0.045). Nevertheless, analysis of aa sequences of core protein revealed highly conserved sequences among HCV genotypes and no significant differences between the viruses from responders and the treatment failure group. Our findings indicate that mutations in aa residues of NS5A of HCV‐1a, 1b and 6f correlated well with responsiveness to Peg‐IFN and RBV combination therapy.
Bayesian statistical treatment of the fluorescence of AFLP bands leads to accurate genetic structure inference
Authors: GAGGIOTTI OSCAR E.
Published: October 2010

Ever since the introduction of allozymes in the 1960s, evolutionary biologists and ecologists have continued to search for more powerful molecular markers to estimate important parameters such as effective population size and migration rates and to make inferences about the demographic history of populations, the relationships between individuals and the genetic architecture of phenotypic variation (Bensch & Akesson 2005; Bonin et al. 2007). Choosing a marker requires a thorough consideration of the trade‐offs associated with the different techniques and the type of data obtained from them. Some markers can be very informative but require substantial amounts of start‐up time (e.g. microsatellites), while others require very little time but are much less polymorphic. Amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) is a firmly established molecular marker technique that falls in this latter category. AFLPs are widely distributed throughout the genome and can be used on organisms for which there is no a priori sequence information (Meudt & Clarke 2007). These properties together with their moderate cost and short start‐up time have made them the method of choice for many molecular ecology studies of wild species (Bensch & Akesson 2005). However, they have a major disadvantage, they are dominant. This represents a very important limitation because many statistical genetics methods appropriate for molecular ecology studies require the use of codominant markers. In this issue, Foll et al. (2010) present an innovative hierarchical Bayesian method that overcomes this limitation. The proposed approach represents a comprehensive statistical treatment of the fluorescence of AFLP bands and leads to accurate inferences about the genetic structure of natural populations. Besides allowing a quasi‐codominant treatment of AFLPs, this new method also solves the difficult problems posed by subjectivity in the scoring of AFLP bands.
Extremely high molecular diversity within the East Asian nematode Caenorhabditis sp. 5
Authors: WANG GUO‐XIU , REN SHUANG , REN YUAN , AI HUI , CUTTER ASHER D.
Published: October 2010

Most relatives of the self‐fertilizing hermaphroditic nematode model organism Caenorhabditis elegans reproduce via obligate outbreeding between males and females, which also represents the ancestral mode of reproduction within the genus. However, little is known about the scope of genetic diversity and differentiation within such gonochoristic species, especially those found outside of temperate Europe and North America. It is critical to understand the evolutionary processes operating in these species to provide a framework for deciphering the evolution of hermaphroditism and a baseline for the application of outcrossing Caenorhabditis to problems in evolutionary genetics. Here, we investigate for the first time molecular sequence variation for Caenorhabditis sp. 5, a species found commonly in eastern Asia. We identify enormous levels of standing genetic variation that approach the levels observed in the marine broadcast‐spawning sea squirt, Ciona savignyi. Although we document significant isolation by distance, we demonstrate that the high polymorphism within C. sp. 5 is not because of strong differentiation among populations or to the presence of cryptic species. These findings illustrate that molecular population genetic approaches to studying obligately outbreeding species of Caenorhabditis will prove powerful in identifying and characterizing functionally and evolutionarily important features of the genome.
Mitochondrial Activity and Morphology in Developing Porcine Oocytes and Pre‐implantation Non‐Cultured and Cultured Embryos
Authors: Romek M , Gajda B , Rolka M , Smorąg Z
Published: October 2010

Contents

Mitochondria are important determinants of developmental competence for oocytes and embryos owing to their central role in cellular metabolism, yet mitochondrial activity and morphometry during early porcine development have not been quantified. In this study, we examined the membrane potential Δψm and the surface density Sv(in,m) of the inner mitochondrial membrane in pig oocytes and pre‐implantation embryos using fluorescent probes and confocal microscopy. Mitochondria and their cristae were also examined by transmission electron microscope. Δψm was consistently low from immature oocytes up to morulae and increased significantly in the early blastocyst before decreasing at the expanded blastocyst stage. This stage‐dependent pattern of Δψm changes differs from that reported for other mammals. We also determined that Δψm is lower in cultured when compared to non‐cultured porcine early blastocysts. Sv(in,m) was higher in immature oocytes than mature oocytes and remained constant up to the 4‐ to 8‐cell embryo stage. It increased significantly at morula and early blastocyst stages. No differences in Sv(in,m) were found between developmentally matched non‐cultured and cultured embryos. These results indicate that the inner mitochondrial membrane potential and surface density change significantly during pre‐implantation porcine development in relation to metabolic alterations of the embryo. It is possible that modification of Δψm by manipulating culture conditions may improve the performance of embryos that develop in vitro.
Novice occupational therapists’ perceptions of readiness to undertake fieldwork supervision
Authors: Hunt Kate , Kennedy‐Jones Mary
Published: October 2010

Aim:  This study investigated new graduate occupational therapists’ perceived readiness for the fieldwork supervisor role at a metropolitan Melbourne Hospital.

Methods:  Data from four in‐depth individual interviews and a focus group conducted with seven
Grade 1 occupational therapists were analysed thematically. An iterative process was used to develop themes from the categories of data.

Results:  The new graduate occupational therapists’ perceived readiness for supervising students was strongly influenced by a sense of still learning themselves. High expectations were expressed of the supervisory role. Active support and supervision from the workplace and the university are seen as neccessary.

Conclusions:  A deeper understanding of the supervisory role and associated skills required for new graduate therapists is needed. Support from senior colleagues and workshops conducted by the university to up‐skill the therapists are recommended.
A case against generalisation of mental health occupational therapy in Australia
Authors: Ceramidas Dagmar M.
Published: October 2010

Background/aim:  In 2009, the World Federation of Occupational Therapists International Advisory Group on Mental Health conducted a global survey that yielded data on mental health occupational therapy practice. The Australian dataset reflected aspects of the current situation of the Australian mental health occupational therapy workforce. Of particular interest were resource availability, workforce recruitment and retention, and perception of the future of mental health occupational therapy.

Methodology:  Using a cross‐sectional survey design, quantitative and qualitative data were gathered electronically over a one‐month period. Manual analysis indicated themes common to mental health occupational therapists across a framework of professional areas.

Results:  Findings suggested that role blurring negatively affected workforce retention. Workforce recruitment and retention were complicated by resource shortages. Some Federal Government initiatives were perceived as only partially beneficial to the profession.

Conclusions:  Survey respondents believed that mental health occupational therapy was a potential growth area particularly where occupational therapy specific skills were retained.
Getting plugged in: An overview of Internet addiction
Authors: Flisher Caroline
Published: October 2010

Internet addiction is not formally recognised as a clinical disorder by the WHO despite increasing evidence that excessive internet use can interfere with daily life and work. There is increasing pressure from Psychologists for Internet addiction to be recognised. This article explores the prevalence, symptoms and management of Internet addiction and the consequences of ignoring the ever growing concerns from public figures and institutions.
Metaplasticity of the human trigeminal blink reflex
Authors: Bologna Matteo , Agostino Rocco , Gregori Bruno , Belvisi Daniele , Manfredi Mario , Berardelli Alfredo
Published: October 2010

Although synaptic plasticity in the human cerebral cortex is governed by metaplasticity, whether a similar mechanism operates at brainstem level is unknown. In this study in healthy humans we examined the effects and interactions induced by pairing supraorbital nerve high‐frequency electrical stimulation (HFS) protocols on the R2 component of the trigeminal blink reflex [Mao, J.B. & Evinger, C (2001) J Neurosci., 21:RC151(1–4)]. Changes in the R2 component were tested by pairing three different priming stimulation protocols inducing long‐term potentiation (LTP)‐like or long‐term depression (LTD)‐like effects (LTP‐HFS and LTD‐HFS), or no change (CONTROL‐HFS) with a subsequent test LTP‐HFS. Additionally, to examine changes in the R2 component induced by nonspecific factors, two CONTROL‐HFS sessions were paired. Priming LTP‐, LTD‐ or CONTROL‐HFS potentiated, inhibited or left unchanged the area of the R2 component. Regardless of the type of priming LTP‐, LTD‐ or CONTROL‐HFS, the test LTP‐HFS induced negligible differences in the R2 component. When two CONTROL‐HFS sessions were paired, the test CONTROL‐HFS increased the latency and markedly reduced the duration and area of the R2 component. The analysis of the normalized data across the first three experimental sessions, corrected for the inhibitory effects found in the fourth experiment, showed that the test LTP‐HFS potentiated the R2 component area of the trigeminal blink reflex only when preceded by a priming LTD‐HFS. We propose that homosynaptic metaplasticity might operate in the brainstem circuitry of the blink reflex.
Stereo correspondence is optimized for large viewing distances
Authors: Phillipson Graeme P. , Read Jenny C. A.
Published: October 2010

Stereo ‘3D’ vision depends on correctly matching up the differing images of objects seen by our two eyes. But vertical disparity between the retinal images changes with binocular eye posture, reflecting for example the different convergence angles required for different viewing distances. Thus, stereo correspondence must either dynamically adapt to take account of changes in viewing distance, or be hard‐wired to perform best at one particular viewing distance. Here, using psychophysical experiments, we show for the first time that human stereo correspondence does not adapt to changes in physical viewing distance. We examine performance on a stereo correspondence task at a short viewing distance (30 cm) and show that performance is improved when we simulate the disparity pattern for viewing infinity, even though these disparities are impossible at the physical viewing distance. We estimate the vertical extent of the retinally fixed ‘search zones’ as < 0.6° at 14° eccentricity, suggesting that most V1 neurons must be tuned to near‐zero vertical disparity. We also show that performance on our stereo task at 14° eccentricity is affected by the pattern of vertical disparity beyond 20° eccentricity, even though this is irrelevant to the task. Performance is best when vertical disparities within and beyond 20° eccentricity both indicate the same convergence angle (even if not the physical angle), than when the pattern of vertical disparity across the visual field is globally inconsistent with any single convergence angle. This novel effect of the periphery may indicate cooperative interactions between disparity‐selective neurons activated by the same eye postures.
Mutualisms in a changing world: an evolutionary perspective
Authors: Toby Kiers E. , Palmer Todd M. , Ives Anthony R. , Bruno John F. , Bronstein Judith L.
Published: October 2010

Ecology Letters (2010) 13: 1459–1474

There is growing concern that rapid environmental degradation threatens mutualistic interactions. Because mutualisms can bind species to a common fate, mutualism breakdown has the potential to expand and accelerate effects of global change on biodiversity loss and ecosystem disruption. The current focus on the ecological dynamics of mutualism under global change has skirted fundamental evolutionary issues. Here, we develop an evolutionary perspective on mutualism breakdown to complement the ecological perspective, by focusing on three processes: (1) shifts from mutualism to antagonism, (2) switches to novel partners and (3) mutualism abandonment. We then identify the evolutionary factors that may make particular classes of mutualisms especially susceptible or resistant to breakdown and discuss how communities harbouring mutualisms may be affected by these evolutionary responses. We propose a template for evolutionary research on mutualism resilience and identify conservation approaches that may help conserve targeted mutualisms in the face of environmental change.
Mimicry between unequally defended prey can be parasitic: evidence for quasi‐Batesian mimicry
Authors: Rowland Hannah M. , Mappes Johanna , Ruxton Graeme D. , Speed Michael P.
Published: October 2010

Ecology Letters (2010) 13: 1494–1502

The nature of signal mimicry between defended prey (known as Müllerian mimicry) is controversial. Some authors assert that it is always mutualistic and beneficial, whilst others speculate that less well defended prey may be parasitic and degrade the protection of their better defended co‐mimics (quasi‐Batesian mimicry). Using great tits (Parus major) as predators of artificial prey, we show that mimicry between unequally defended co‐mimics is not mutualistic, and can be parasitic and quasi‐Batesian. We presented a fixed abundance of a highly defended model and a moderately defended dimorphic (mimic and distinct non‐mimetic) species, and varied the relative frequency of the two forms of the moderately defended prey. As the mimic form increased in abundance, per capita predation on the model–mimic pair increased. Furthermore, when mimics were rare they gained protection from predation but imposed no co‐evolutionary pressure on models. We found that the feeding decisions of the birds were affected by their individual toxic burdens, consistent with the idea that predators make foraging decisions which trade‐off toxicity and nutrition. This result suggests that many prey species that are currently assumed to be in a simple mutualistic mimetic relationship with their co‐mimic species may actually be engaged in an antagonistic co‐evolutionary process.
A CLOSED‐FORM EXACT SOLUTION FOR PRICING VARIANCE SWAPS WITH STOCHASTIC VOLATILITY
Authors: Zhu Song‐Ping , Lian Guang‐Hua
Published: October 2010

In this paper, we present a highly efficient approach to price variance swaps with discrete sampling times. We have found a closed‐form exact solution for the partial differential equation (PDE) system based on the Heston's two‐factor stochastic volatility model embedded in the framework proposed by Little and Pant. In comparison with the previous approximation models based on the assumption of continuous sampling time, the current research of working out a closed‐form exact solution for variance swaps with discrete sampling times at least serves for two major purposes: (i) to verify the degree of validity of using a continuous‐sampling‐time approximation for variance swaps of relatively short sampling period; (ii) to demonstrate that significant errors can result from still adopting such an assumption for a variance swap with small sampling frequencies or long tenor. Other key features of our new solution approach include the following: (1) with the newly found analytic solution, all the hedging ratios of a variance swap can also be analytically derived; (2) numerical values can be very efficiently computed from the newly found analytic formula.
COMONOTONIC MEASURES OF MULTIVARIATE RISKS
Authors: Ekeland Ivar , Galichon Alfred , Henry Marc
Published: October 2010

We propose a multivariate extension of a well‐known characterization by S. Kusuoka of regular and coherent risk measures as maximal correlation functionals. This involves an extension of the notion of comonotonicity to random vectors through generalized quantile functions. Moreover, we propose to replace the current law invariance, subadditivity, and comonotonicity axioms by an equivalent property we call strong coherence and that we argue has more natural economic interpretation. Finally, we reformulate the computation of regular and coherent risk measures as an optimal transportation problem, for which we provide an algorithm and implementation.
Why Do EPS Forecast Error and Dispersion Not Vary with Scale? Implications for Analyst and Managerial Behavior
Authors: CHEONG FOONG SOON , THOMAS JACOB
Published: October 2010

We document a counter‐intuitive finding regarding analyst forecasts of quarterly earnings per share (EPS): magnitudes of deviations from benchmarks—individual forecasts versus consensus (dispersion) and consensus versus actual (forecast error)—do not vary with scale. Seasonally differenced EPS, or time‐series forecast error, also exhibits substantial lack of variation with scale, but only for firms followed by analysts. This lack of variation with scale is not observed for analyst and time‐series forecasts for (a) EPS for some countries, (b) sales and cash flows for all countries, and (c) stock splits. We propose and investigate different explanations for these puzzling regularities that have important implications for practice and research. We believe the cause is managerial smoothing of EPS designed to reduce across‐firm variation in EPS volatility.
Interaction of prostanoid EP3and TP receptors in guinea‐pig isolated aorta: contractile self‐synergism of 11‐deoxy‐16,16‐dimethyl PGE2
Authors: Jones RL , Woodward DF
Published: October 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSESurprisingly high contractile activity was reported for 11‐deoxy‐16,16‐dimethyl prostaglandin E2(DX‐DM PGE2) on pig cerebral artery when used as a selective EP3receptor agonist. This study investigated the selectivity profile of DX‐DM PGE2, focusing on the interaction between its EP3and TP (thromboxane A2‐like) agonist activities.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACHContraction of guinea‐pig trachea (EP1system) and aorta (EP3and TP systems) was measured in conventional organ baths.

KEY RESULTSStrong contraction of guinea‐pig aorta to sulprostone and 17‐phenyl PGE2(EP3agonists) was only seen under priming with a second contractile agent such as phenylephrine, histamine or U‐46619 (TP agonist). In contrast, DX‐DM PGE2induced strong contraction, which on the basis of treatment with (DG)‐3ap (EP3antagonist) and/or BMS‐180291 (TP antagonist) was attributed to self‐synergism arising from co‐activation of EP3and TP receptors. EP3/TP self‐synergism also accounted for contraction induced by PGF2αand its analogues (+)‐cloprostenol and latanoprost‐FA. DX‐DM PGE2also showed significant EP1agonism on guinea‐pig trachea as defined by the EP1antagonists SC‐51322, (ONO)‐5‐methyl‐1 and AH‐6809, although AH‐6809 exhibited poor specificity at concentrations ≥3 µM.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONSEP3/TP self‐synergism, as seen with PGE/PGF analogues in this study, may confound EP3agonist potency comparisons and the characterization of prostanoid receptor systems. The competitive profile of a TP antagonist may be distorted by variation in the silent/overt contraction profile of the EP3system in different studies. The relevance of self‐synergism toin vivoactions of natural prostanoid receptor agonists is discussed.
Highly Efficient LaCoO3 Nanofibers Catalysts for Photocatalytic Degradation of Rhodamine B
Authors: Dong Bo , Li Zhicheng , Li Zhenyu , Xu Xiuru , Song Mingxin , Zheng Wei , Wang Ce , Al‐Deyab Salem S. , El‐Newehy Mohamed
Published: October 2010

Perovskite‐type oxide LaCoO3 nanofibers have been fabricated by electrospinning and subsequent calcination technology. Scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and X‐ray diffraction were used to characterize the morphology and structure. Rhodamine B (RhB) was used to evaluate the ultraviolet photocatalytic activity of the as‐prepared nanofibers. The effect of calcination temperature and pH of the reaction solution on the decolorization of RhB were investigated. Results showed that the samples calcined at 600°C exhibited the best photocatalytic activity at pH 4. Additionally, the recycling experiments confirmed the attractive stability of the catalysts.
Full STR Profile of a 67‐Year‐Old Bone Found in a Fresh Water Lake
Authors: Courts Cornelius , Madea Burkhard
Published: October 2010

Abstract:  DNA extraction from and DNA typing of fresh water‐exposed aged bone specimens poses a challenging task and is not very well examined. This study presents a new method to extract typable DNA from such problematic bone specimens. The procedure comprises low‐heat drilling and cryogrinding, mild lysis conditions, and silica‐column‐based DNA cleaning. DNA quantity is assessed by quantitative PCR prior to short tandem repeat (STR) amplification. The procedure was employed with a 67‐year‐old tibia bone fragment recovered from a fresh water lake and succeeded to produce a full STR profile using the MPX‐SP1 and MPX‐SP2 mini‐STR kits and a partial profile with 12 successfully amplified STRs using the Identifiler STR kit. The new method for the extraction of DNA from aged fresh water‐exposed bone specimens presented herein was successfully applied to prepare DNA of sufficient quality and quantity to generate a full STR profile.
Rapid Direct PCR for ABO Blood Typing*
Authors: Lee Hwan Young , Park Myung Jin , Kim Na Young , Yang Woo Ick , Shin Kyoung‐Jin
Published: October 2010

Abstract:  Many different molecular typing methods have been reported to complement routine serological ABO blood typing in forensics. However, these ABO genotyping methods are often time‐consuming and call for an initial DNA isolation step that requires the use of expensive kits or reagents. We report here a rapid direct ABO genotyping method that eliminates the need for DNA extraction from fresh blood, hair, and body fluid stains before PCR. Using a fast PCR instrument and an optimized polymerase, the genotyping method—which employs a multiplex allele‐specific primer set for the simultaneous detection of three single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) sites (nucleotides 261, 526, and 803)—identifies A, B, O01/O02, O03, and cis‐AB01 alleles in around 70 min from sample collection to electropherogram. Not only will this ABO genotyping method be efficiently used in forensic practice for rapid screening of samples before full‐blown multilocus short tandem repeat profiling, but it will also demonstrate an example of rapid direct genotyping of SNPs that offers the advantages of time‐ and cost‐efficiency, convenience, and reduced contamination during DNA analysis.
Effects of Histological Staining on the Analysis of Human DNA from Archived Slides*
Authors: Simons Joanne L. , Vintiner Sue K.
Published: October 2010

Abstract:  Archived slides of cell smears treated with histological stains for sperm detection are often the only source of DNA available when cold cases are reopened. There have been conflicting reports as to the negative effects of particular histological stains on DNA recovery and quality from human cells, making stain selection an important consideration for forensic laboratories. This study investigates the effect of several staining systems on DNA recovery from histological slide samples stored from 0 to 10 weeks. DNA profiles obtained after analysis of these samples with AmpFlSTR® Identifiler™ and increased cycle AmpFlSTR® SGM Plus™ short tandem repeat (STR) profiling systems and the effects that these stains have on DNA quantity and quality over time are described. Results indicate that Christmas Tree and Hematoxylin and Eosin stains do not have significantly different effects on DNA quality after 10‐week storage of slides. This research will assist scientists to select staining systems that have minimal deleterious effects on the DNA recovered.
Convergence and divergence in regional agricultural productivity growth: evidence from Italian regions, 1951–2002
Authors: Esposti Roberto
Published: October 2010

This article analyzes long‐term agricultural Total Factor Productivity (TFP) growth at regional level by testing its time‐series properties and identifying factors associated with divergence as opposed to convergence. The empirical application concerns Italian regions over the 1951–2002 time period. TFP growth decomposition ultimately attributes the observed productivity growth performance to these contrasting (convergence vs. divergence) forces. We find that technological spillovers are the key convergence force regardless of how the spillover effects are computed. At the same time, forces favoring convergence are almost offset by divergence forces (mainly scale or learning effects). This decomposition may explain the persistence of TFP growth rate differences in Italian agriculture, and could be applicable elsewhere.
Do native and invasive labels affect consumer willingness to pay for plants? Evidence from experimental auctions
Authors: Yue Chengyan , Hurley Terrance M. , Anderson Neil
Published: October 2010

Ornamental plant sales have been identified as an important vector for the introduction of invasive plants. Increased concerns about the economic and ecological costs of invasive plants have spawned interest in identifying strategies to curtail introductions. One possible strategy is labeling plants based on whether they are invasive or native. The primary purpose of this paper was to explore how labeling plants based on invasive and native attributes might affect consumer demand. To accomplish this objective, a second price auction was used to elicit the willingness to pay (WTP) for plants with and without labels. On average, we found a $0.35 premium for plants labeled as noninvasive and native and a $1.01 to $1.66 discount for plants labeled as invasive. The size of these premiums and discounts differed in relation to various demographic, attitudinal, and preference‐related factors. Overall, our results suggest that labeling plants as invasive or native could be a viable strategy for reducing the introduction of invasive plants.
Returns to spending on agricultural extension: the case of the National Agricultural Advisory Services (NAADS) program of Uganda†
Authors: Benin Samuel , Nkonya Ephraim , Okecho Geresom , Randriamamonjy Joseé , Kato Edward , Lubade Geofrey , Kyotalimye Miriam
Published: October 2010

The aim of this paper is to assess the direct and indirect impacts of the agricultural extension system of Uganda, the National Agricultural Advisory Services (NAADS) program, on household agricultural income. Data from two rounds of surveys of Ugandan rural farm‐households conducted in 2004 and 2007, as well as different program evaluation methods and model specifications, are used to estimate impacts and compute a rate of return. The direct and indirect impact of the program is estimated at 37–95% and 27–55% increase in per capita agricultural gross revenue between 2004 and 2007 for households participating directly and indirectly in the program, respectively, compared to nonparticipants. The rate of return on the program's expenditures is estimated at 8–49%. The program has been relatively more effective among male‐headed, larger, and asset‐poor households, as well as those taking up noncrop high‐value enterprises and living further away from financial services, all‐weather roads, and markets or located in the Eastern and Northern Regions. Policy implications of the results are drawn.
Oxygen tension modulates the cytokine response of oral epithelium to periodontal bacteria
Authors: Grant Melissa M. , Kolamunne Rajitha T. , Lock Frances E. , Matthews John B. , Chapple Iain L.C. , Griffiths Helen R.
Published: October 2010

Grant MM, Kolamunne RT, Lock FE, Matthews JB, Chapple ILC, Griffiths HR. Oxygen tension modulates the cytokine response of oral epithelium to periodontal bacteria. J Clin Periodontol 2010; doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐051X.2010.01622.x.

Background: There is an inverse relationship between pocket depth and pocket oxygen tension with deep pockets being associated with anaerobic bacteria. However, little is known about how the host tissues respond to bacteria under differing oxygen tensions within the periodontal pocket.

Aim: To investigate the effect of different oxygen tensions upon nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB) activation and the inflammatory cytokine response of oral epithelial cells when exposed to nine species of oral bacteria.

Materials and Methods: H400 oral epithelial cells were equilibrated at 2%, 10% or 21% oxygen. Cells were stimulated with heat‐killed oral bacteria at multiplicity of infection 10:1, Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (15 μg/ml) or vehicle control. Interleukin‐8 (IL‐8) and tumour necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) levels were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and NF‐κB activation was measured by reporter vector or by immunohistochemical analysis.

Results: Tannerella forsythensis, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Prevotella intermedia elicited the greatest epithelial NF‐κB activation and cytokine responses. An oxygen‐tension‐dependent trend in cytokine production was observed with the highest IL‐8 and TNF‐α production observed at 2% oxygen and lowest at 21% oxygen.

Conclusions: These data demonstrate a greater pro‐inflammatory host response and cell signalling response to bacteria present in more anaerobic conditions, and hypersensitivity of epithelial cells to pro‐inflammatory stimuli at 2% oxygen, which may have implications for disease pathogenesis and/or therapy.
Exploitation of asymmetric predator–prey interactions by trophically transmitted parasites
Authors: Rossiter Wayne , Sukhdeo Michael V. K.
Published: October 2010

The directionality of asymmetric interactions between predators (definitive hosts) and prey (intermediate hosts) should impact trophic transmission in parasites. This study tests the prediction that trophically transmitted parasites are funneled towards asymmetric predator–prey interactions where intermediate hosts have few predators and definitive hosts feed upon many prey (‘downward asymmetry’). The distribution of trophically transmitted parasites was examined in four published food webs in relation to mismatch asymmetry of predator–prey interactions. We found that trophically transmitted parasites exploit downwardly asymmetric interactions in a nonrandom manner, and particular predator–prey pairs contain more trophically transmitted parasites than would be expected by random chance alone. These findings suggest that food web topology has great bearing on the ecology of trophically transmitted parasites, and that consideration of parasite life cycles in the context of food web organization can provide insights into the forces affecting the evolution of trophic transmission.
Reticulon Short Hairpin Transmembrane Domains Are Used to Shape ER Tubules
Authors: Zurek Nesia , Sparks Lenore , Voeltz Gia
Published: October 2010

Reticulons are integral membrane proteins that partition into and shape the tubular endoplasmic reticulum (ER). We propose that reticulons use a membrane insertion mechanism to generate regions of high membrane curvature in the ER. A reticulon contains two short hairpin transmembrane domains (TMDs), which could generate membrane curvature by increasing the area of the cytoplasmic leaflet. Here, we test whether the short length of these hairpin TMDs is required for reticulon membrane‐shaping functions in mammalian cells. We lengthened the TMDs of reticulon 4 to resemble a typical bi‐pass TMD that spans both leaflets. We find that TMD mutants oligomerize like wild type (wt), however, they are not immobilized, do not partition into tubules, do not constrict tubules and no longer suppress peripheral ER cisternae. Therefore, short hairpin TMD length is required for reticulon protein partitioning and membrane‐shaping functions. Another membrane protein with a short hairpin TMD is caveolin. We show that an ER‐retained caveolin construct also partitions within the ER in a manner that is dependent on it containing a short hairpin TMD. These data suggest that a short hairpin TMD may be a general feature used by membrane‐shaping proteins to partition into and shape regions of high membrane curvature.
In vivo biofilm formation on a soft denture liner in elderly patients with controlled diabetes
Authors: Faccio Daniela R. , Pereira‐Cenci Tatiana , Cenci Maximiliano S. , Demarco Flávio F. , Moraes Rafael R. , Boscato Noéli
Published: October 2010

doi: 10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2010.00428.x

In vivo biofilm formation on a soft denture liner in elderly patients with controlled diabetes

Objectives:  This in vivo study evaluated the influence of controlled diabetes on biofilm formation on a soft denture liner in elderly patients.

Background:  Soft denture lining materials are more susceptible to microbial colonisation than denture base acrylic resins. Especially in the elderly, several predisposing factors may accumulate leading to an increased probability of biofilm development that may result in candidiasis, a significant clinical oral disease.

Materials and methods:  Volunteers wearing complete dentures were divided into two groups (n = 20): diabetic patients with controlled glycaemia, and healthy patients. In both groups, a silicone‐based soft liner was placed in a recess created at the base of the maxillary dentures. Subjects cleaned the prosthesis three times a day. Biofilm formed on the liner was quantified at various time points (baseline, two, four and six weeks). Data were analysed by two‐way repeated measures anova and Tukey’s test (α = 0.05).

Results:  There was no statistical difference in biofilm formation for any of the time points between controlled diabetes patients and healthy patients.

Conclusion:  The results suggest that the control of diabetes in elderly patients provides the same levels of biofilm formation when compared to healthy individuals.
TEACHING TO UNLEARN COMMUNITY IN ORDER TO MAKE A CLAIM TO COMMUNITY
Authors: Kwak Duck‐Joo
Published: October 2010

In this essay Duck‐Joo Kwak explores a moral perfectionist approach to citizenship education, which is distinct from liberal and communitarian models. One of educational challenges to this approach is how to cultivate our students' sense of membership, which is shaped by a thick sense of the good life, while being not merely compatible with but open to the pluralist perspective. Kwak maintains that what is required for this form of membership to society or community is our future citizens' ability to engage in highly self‐reflexive philosophical reflection on the human condition; such reflection gives them the skills necessary to live up to the tension between different selves of diverse origins or within a divided self. Examining Stanley Cavell's view of political education as an exemplar of the moral perfectionist approach to citizenship education, Kwak shows how the practice of his ordinary language philosophy can be a good way to cultivate this ability by teaching us how to “speak for others” by way of “speaking for oneself.”
THE PHILOSOPHY OF DISSONANT CHILDREN: STANLEY CAVELL'S WITTGENSTEINIAN PHILOSOPHICAL THERAPIES AS AN EDUCATIONAL CONVERSATION
Authors: Johansson Viktor
Published: October 2010

Education is often understood as a process whereby children come to conform to the norms teachers believe should govern our practices. This picture problematically presumes that educators know in advance what it means for children to go on the way that is expected of them. In this essay Viktor Johansson suggests a revision of education, through the philosophy of Stanley Cavell, that can account for both the attunement in our practices and the possible dissonance that follows when the teacher and child do not go on together. There is an anxiety generated by the threat of disharmony in our educational undertakings that may drive teachers toward philosophy in educational contexts. Here Johansson offers a philosophical treatment of this intellectual anxiety that teachers may experience when they, upon meeting dissonant children, search for epistemic justifications of their practices—a treatment whereby dissonant children can support teachers in dissolving their intellectual frustrations.
CHALLENGING SPECULATION ABOUT “DEWEY'S RACIALIZED VISIONS”
Authors: Eldridge Michael
Published: October 2010

In this essay Michael Eldridge maintains that Frank Margonis has in a recent article ill‐advisedly speculated about John Dewey's pedagogy, suggesting that his “racialized visions” of students and classroom communities involve a “false universalism” that is problematic for our multicultural society. Based on this understanding, Margonis concludes that we need to seek an alternative to Dewey's educational philosophy. Eldridge strongly disagrees with this conclusion, arguing that assessing Dewey's philosophy and pedagogy is not a matter for speculation but should instead be based on the extensive documentation and research that is readily available. Eldridge focuses in this essay on documenting Margonis's speculations regarding Dewey's theory and pedagogy, and then offering an alternative reading of Dewey's writings as well as scholarship about Dewey's life and work. Ultimately, Eldridge argues that a wholesale abandonment of Dewey's educational approach is unnecessary and would be misguided.
MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF COLLAGEN FIBER AND POWDER GELS
Authors: MAXIMO G.J. , CUNHA R.L.
Published: October 2010

Mechanical properties and water holding capacity (WHC) of collagen gels were evaluated using two ingredients with different particle size and shape. The variables evaluated were ingredient concentration (3, 5, and 10%, w/w), NaCl addition (0 and 2% w/w), heat treatment temperature (25, 60, and 90C), gel formation temperature (10 and 25C), and the soluble/insoluble protein ratio. The collagen ingredients produced strong, highly elastic gel networks with stress at fracture values from 0.4 to 68 kPa and values for the elasticity modulus from 1.4 to 17 kPa, for the range of variables studied. The gel network strength and WHC were enhanced by a decrease in particle size, lower incubation temperatures, and by increases in soluble protein, ionic strength of the medium and heat treatment temperature.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Collagen has a unique molecular structure that provides ingredients of interest for incorporation into food products and other biomaterials, showing different technological properties depending on the process conditions. Once the effect of size and shape of the particle, temperature, pH, and salt addition on the mechanical properties, water holding capacity and physico‐chemical characteristics of bovine collagen gels is known, process parameters and formulations can be optimized, in order to establish desirable texture properties for food products and other biomaterials.