bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Construction of cavernosum smooth muscle using umbilical artery smooth muscle cells seeded on acellular corporal collagen matrices
Authors: Song Lu‐Jie , Xu Yue‐Min , Li Chao , Fu Qiang , Cui Lei , Hu Xiao‐Yong
Published: April 2008

The objective of this study was to investigate the feasibility of tissue engineering of corpus cavernosal smooth muscle. Acellular corporal collagen matrices (ACCMs) were obtained from the penis of adult rabbits by a cell removal procedure. ACCMs were implanted into the back muscles of allogenic rabbits to investigate the resulting immunological reaction. Human umbilical artery smooth muscle cells (HUASMCs) were isolated from human umbilical arteries through explant techniques and expanded in vitro. Subsequently, third and fifth passage HUASMCs were seeded to ACCMs at a concentration of 30 × 106 cells/mL. Then, seeded ACCMs were implanted subcutaneously in athymic mice. The implants were retrieved at 10, 20 and 40 days after implantation. Histochemistry, immunohistochemistry and scanning electron microscopy were performed to analyse the morphological characteristics of the engineered tissues. Additionally, organ bath studies were performed to address the contractility of the engineered tissues. The decellularization process successfully extracted all cellular components while preserving the original collagen fibers. The immunological reaction to ACCMs consisted of only a transient nonspecific inflammatory response. Light and scanning electron microscopy demonstrated that HUASMCs extended onto the three‐dimensional ACCMs scaffolds in vitro. Histological analyses of the explants from all time points demonstrated a progressive regeneration of smooth muscle, with structures very similar to native corpus cavernosum smooth muscle. The maximum contraction force induced by phenylephrine and electrical stimulation were 3.64 ± 0.18 g/100 mg and 2.50 ± 0.21 g/100 mg, respectively. Our study demonstrates that HUASMCs can be seeded on three‐dimensional ACCM scaffolds and will develop tissues similar to that of the native corpus cavernosum smooth muscle.
An evolutionary perspective on Y‐chromosomal variation and male infertility
Authors: Tyler‐Smith Chris
Published: April 2008

Genetic variation on the Y chromosome is one of the best‐documented causes of male infertility, but the genes responsible have still not been identified. This review discusses how an evolutionary perspective may help with interpretation of the data available and suggest novel approaches to identify key genes. Comparison with the chimpanzee Y chromosome indicates that USP9Y is dispensable in apes, but that multiple copies of TSPY1 may have an important role. Comparisons between infertile and control groups in search of genetic susceptibility factors are more complex for the Y chromosome than for the rest of the genome because of population stratification and require unusual levels of confirmation. But the extreme population stratification exhibited by the Y also allows populations particularly suitable for some studies to be identified, such as the partial AZFc deletions common in Northern European populations where further dissection of this complex structural region would be facilitated.
Structure of the exosporium and sublayers of spores of the Bacillus cereus family revealed by electron crystallography
Authors: Ball David A. , Taylor Robert , Todd Sarah J. , Redmond Caroline , Couture‐Tosi Evelyne , Sylvestre Patricia , Moir Anne , Bullough Per A.
Published: April 2008

We report on the first step in mapping out the spatial location of structural proteins within the exosporium, namely a description of its three‐dimensional architecture. Using electron microscopy and image analysis, we have characterized crystalline fragments from the exosporium of Bacillus cereus, B. thuringiensis and B. anthracis strains and identified up to three distinct crystal types. Type I and type II crystals were examined in three dimensions and shown to form arrays of interlinked crown‐like structures each enclosing a cavity ∼26–34 Å deep with threefold symmetry. The arrays appear to be permeated by tunnels allowing access from one surface to the other, possibly indicating that the exosporium forms a semi‐permeable barrier. The pore size of ∼23–34 Å would allow passage of the endospore germinants, alanine or inosine but not degradative enzymes or antibodies. Thus the structures appear compatible with a protective role for the exosporium. Furthermore the outermost crystalline layer must act as a scaffold for binding the BclA protein that contributes to the ‘hairy nap’ layer. The array of crowns may also act as a matrix for the binding or adsorption of other proteins that have been identified in the exosporium such as GroEL, immune inhibitor A and arginase.
NoxA activation by the small GTPase RacA is required to maintain a mutualistic symbiotic association between Epichloë festucae and perennial ryegrass
Authors: Tanaka Aiko , Takemoto Daigo , Hyon Gang‐Su , Park Pyoyun , Scott Barry
Published: April 2008

Small GTPases of the Rac group play a key regulatory role in NADPH oxidase catalysed production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in mammals and plants, but very little evidence is available for a corresponding role in fungi. We recently showed that ROS produced by a specific fungal NADPH oxidase isoform, NoxA, are crucial in regulating hyphal morphogenesis and growth in the mutualistic symbiotic interaction between Epichloë festucae and perennial ryegrass. We demonstrate here that E. festucae RacA is required for NoxA activation and regulated production of ROS to maintain a symbiotic interaction. Deletion of racA resulted in decreased ROS production, reduction of radial growth and hyper‐branching of the hyphae in culture. In contrast, in planta the racA mutant showed extensive colonization of the host plant, resulting in stunting and precocious senescence of the host plants. Strains expressing a dominant active (DA) allele of RacA had increased ROS production, increased aerial hyphae and reduced radial growth. These results demonstrate that RacA plays a crucial role in regulating ROS production by NoxA, in order to control hyphal morphogenesis and growth of the endophyte in planta.
Resistance of the Echinococcus granulosus cyst wall to complement activation: analysis of the role of InsP6 deposits
Authors: IRIGOÍN F. , LAICH A. , FERREIRA A. M. , FERNÁNDEZ C. , SIM R. B. , DÍAZ A.
Published: April 2008

The larva of the cestode Echinococcus granulosus (hydatid cyst) is protected by the acellular laminated layer (LL). The mechanisms that make this thick coat a poor activator of host complement are incompletely understood. The structure binds, through unknown motifs, the host regulator of the alternative complement pathway (ACP), factor H. A second potential mechanism of ACP regulation, the inhibition of factor B activation, was detected in assays employing purified components (Immunopharmacology 42 : 91). The inhibitor was subsequently identified as myo‐inositol hexakisphosphate (InsP6), which in the form of nano‐deposits is a major component of the LL (Biochem J 362 : 297; J Cell Biochem 93 : 1272; FEBS J 273 : 3192). In this report we show that colloidal InsP6 solids inhibit factor B activation, through adsorption and associated impairment of C3b binding. However, this interaction is not relevant in the presence of serum proteins. In serum, InsP6 deposits instead bind C1q, and initiate complement activation. This activation is curtailed through efficient C3b inactivation, previously shown to be entirely factor H‐dependent, and now observed to be independent of the InsP6 deposits. Therefore the complement resistance of the LL must be based on functional factor H binding sites present on the mucin‐based meshwork that is its other major constituent.
Seasonal differences in photosynthesis between the C3and C4subspecies ofAlloteropsis semialataare offset by frost and drought
Authors: IBRAHIM DOUGLAS G. , GILBERT MATTHEW E. , RIPLEY BRAD S. , OSBORNE COLIN P.
Published: April 2008

The regional abundance of C4grasses is strongly controlled by temperature, however, the role of precipitation is less clear. Progress in elucidating the direct effects of photosynthetic pathway on these climate relationships is hindered by the significant genetic divergence between major C3and C4grass lineages. We addressed this problem by examining seasonal climate responses of photosynthesis inAlloteropsis semialata, a unique grass species with both C3and C4subspecies. Experimental manipulation of rainfall in a common garden in South Africa tested the hypotheses that: (1) photosynthesis is greater in the C4than C3subspecies under high summer temperatures, but this pattern is reversed at low winter temperatures; and (2) the photosynthetic advantage of C4plants is enhanced during drought events. Measurements of leaf gas exchange over 2 years showed a significant photosynthetic advantage for the C4subspecies under irrigated conditions from spring through autumn. However, the C4leaves were killed by winter frost, while photosynthesis continued in the C3plants. Unexpectedly, the C4subspecies also lost its photosynthetic advantage during natural drought events, despite greater water‐use efficiency under irrigated conditions. This study highlights previously unrecognized roles for climatic extremes in determining the ecological success of C3and C4grasses.
Heat acclimation and cross‐tolerance against anoxia in Arabidopsis
Authors: BANTI VALERIA , LORETI ELENA , NOVI GIACOMO , SANTANIELLO ANTONIETTA , ALPI AMEDEO , PERATA PIERDOMENICO
Published: April 2008

Arabidopsis seedlings are highly sensitive to low oxygen and they die rapidly when exposed to anoxia. Tolerance to anoxia depends on the ability to efficiently use carbohydrates through the fermentative pathway, as highlighted by the lower tolerance displayed by a mutant devoid of alcohol dehydrogenase. Other mechanisms of tolerance are also possible and may include a role for heat‐induced genes. In fact, heat shock proteins (HSPs) are induced by anoxia. This suggests that there may be a cross‐adaptation mechanism between heat and anoxic stress, and in this work, we studied the acclimation of Arabidopsis seedlings both to low oxygen and heat. The results show that seedlings subjected to hypoxia or heat pretreatment survive anoxia much better. Interestingly, we also observed an increased anoxia tolerance in heat‐treated alcohol dehydrogenase (adh) mutant plants. On the other hand, anoxic pretreatment does not confer tolerance to heat stress. The success of the induction of HSPs by anoxia is in direct relation to the amount of sucrose available, and this in turn relates to how well seedlings will survive under anoxia. HSP transcripts were also detected during seed development and germination, two hypoxia‐prone processes, suggesting that hypoxia‐induced HSP expression is physiologically relevant.
Individual Signature in Canary Songs: Contribution of Multiple Levels of Song Structure
Authors: Lehongre Katia , Aubin Thierry , Robin Stéphane , Del Negro Catherine
Published: April 2008

Through variations in features, both within and between individuals, songs of male passerines provide information on the identity of the singer. In domesticated canaries (Serinus canaria), these variations remain, for a large part, to be investigated. This led us to question whether individual identity might be coded at one or more hierarchical levels of song organization, i.e. in acoustic parameters, in the syllable repertoire and in the delivery order of syllables. A song as a whole had numerous individual distinctive acoustic features. However, the structure of its individual signature appeared to be complex. A repertoire combined syllables never sung by other individuals with those shared by other birds. But, most of the individual‐specific syllables that accounted for 16% of a repertoire did not recur frequently. Variation in sequences of multiple syllable types appeared to reflect the individual identity of a male canary. Nearly all sequences larger than three syllable types were specific to the individual that produced them. Some of these occurred recurrently in songs and differed in their acoustic structure between individuals. Focusing upon recurrent sequences might allow vocal recognition of an individual without requiring the knowledge of its full repertoire. However, acoustic parameters and repertoire composition might also serve as additional cues to limit confusion between individuals.
Pupal Period Affects Calling Behavior of the Wheat Moth, Pseudaletia sequax (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Almeida Ângela A. , Lima Eraldo R. , Reis Ronaldo
Published: April 2008

The effects of pupal period and age on calling behavior of virgin females of Pseudaletia sequax were determined. Calling behavior of groups of females of similar age of pupation was observed every 10 min for six calling days. Females were considered calling when they assumed a characteristic position: wings and abdomen elevated, displaying the ovipositor and presumably releasing pheromone. Calling behavior was discontinuous. Females with a shorter pupal period took more time to start calling than females with a longer pupal period and called for a longer period. On the first day of calling, females took more time to initiate calling, on average during the seventh hour of the scotophase, whereas on the second day of calling, most females initiated calling during the fifth hour of the scotophase. On subsequent days of calling, the average time to initiate calling changed to the fourth hour of the scotophase. The mean time of calling per day decreased significantly with the number of days since first calling, and the mean number of calling bouts increased with days since first calling.
Choice of Female Groups by Male Mosquitofish (Gambusia holbrooki)
Authors: Agrillo Christian , Dadda Marco , Serena Giovanna
Published: April 2008

Even though females are usually more selective in choosing their mates, males are also capable of exercising mate choice. Despite the large body of evidence on the individual features preferred in sexual selection, little attention has been devoted to the first stage of male–female interaction. As poeciliid fish are known to be social, in the wild, initially mate choice may concern a preliminary selection among shoals. Only after this primary choice, males may subsequently direct their attention to a specific mate. We observed spontaneous preference of male mosquitofish (Gambusia holbrooki) when choosing between groups differing in size and sex ratio. In partial agreement with our predictions, males preferred to join a group of females rather than an isolated one (expt 1) and the larger group when two female groups were presented (expt 2). An all‐female group was preferred to a mixed‐sex group (expt 3), whereas no preference was observed when the two mixed‐sex groups differed in the number of males (expt 4) or in the size of the males (expt 5). These results suggest that male mosquitofish are capable of discriminating among different quantities of individuals within a group and use such information to select among groups in order to optimize the likelihood of successful matings.
The influence of ants on soil and water losses from an orange orchard in eastern Spain
Authors: Cerdà A. , Jurgensen M. F.
Published: April 2008

Herbicide applications have greatly reduced plant cover, and increased soil erosion on a new orange orchard planted on valley slopes in eastern Spain. This has increased the importance of soil fauna, such as ants, in regulating soil erosion processes. Ants increase water infiltration rates by forming soil macropores during nest construction, but new soil brought to the surface by ant activity could increase the sediments available for erosion. Simulated rainfall experiments were conducted on 20 paired plots (20 with ant activity and 20 controls) to study the impact of ants on surface water flow and sediment movement in an intensively managed orange orchard near Valencia, Spain. Simulated rainfall was applied to each plot at a rate of 55 mm/h on a 0.25 m2area for 1 h. We found a reduction of soil bulk density, an increase in soil organic matter, and an increase in macropore flow in ant‐affected soils, as compared to soil without ant activity. These ant‐induced soil changes increased water infiltration rates and runoff discharge. However, the fresh, unconsolidated soil brought to the surface during nest construction resulted in greater soil loss on two plots than their ant‐free controls. Ants can be an important factor in soil erosion processes when surface vegetation is removed by intensive herbicide use.
The impact of ants on mineral soil properties and processes at different spatial scales
Authors: Cammeraat E. L. H. , Risch A. C.
Published: April 2008

Soil dwelling ants are important soil engineers that have a large impact on the soil ecosystem. This is reflected in the alteration of soil properties by ants due to burrowing activities, the accumulation of organic matter and other nutrients in the soil, which, in turn, alters soil physical, chemical and (micro) biological processes. A review of recent literature on these fine scale soil changes resulting from ant activity is presented in this paper. However, ants do not only affect soil properties at the fine scale but also have effects at the hillslope and catchment scales with respect to surface hydrological processes and ecosystem functioning.

At the finest scale, most studies showed changed soil textures, lowered bulk densities and increased infiltration where ant burrows or mineral mounds are prominent. Only a few studies investigated the effects of ants on soil properties such as soil structure and aggregate stability, which were improved by ant activity. Nutrients were generally considered to be concentrated in nests, and increased nutrient cycling involving microbial processes were reported. On a broader scale, the information on nest densities and patterns is crucial to understand the impacts of ants, but this information is scarcely available. It has been reported that the activity of ants increases the heterogeneity of soil infiltration rates and nutrient concentrations at the landscape scale, which in turn has consequences for the redistribution of sediments and nutrients by geomorphological and biotic processes.

A hierarchical descriptive model focusing on dry land ecosystems is presented to incorporate small‐scale ant activity into broader scale hillslope and catchment processes. However, this model has to be tested and more research is needed, especially on these broader scale aspects, to be able to fully understand the role of ants on the ecosystem and landscape scale.
Influence of the wood ant,Formica polyctena,on soil nutrient and the spruce tree growth
Authors: Frouz J. , Rybníček M. , Cudlín P. , Chmelíková E.
Published: April 2008

The effect ofFormica polyctenaant nests on the distribution of soil nutrients, soil pH and the growth of Norway spruce trees was studied in the southern part of the Czech Republic. Soil nutrient content (exchangeable P, N, K and pH) and growth of mature spruce trees were measured at four distances from the nearest ant hill (0–1, 3–5, 10–50 and >200 m). Trees at all distances were visited by ants, except for those >200 m from the nearest nest. Soil pH and of P, K and NO3concentrations were higher near ant nests (<1 m), and pH and K at distances of 3–5 m, when compared with distances of 10–50 and >200 m from the nests, where no significant differences in these variables were detected. In contrast, tree ring analyses (1974–2004) showed that trees >200 m from the ant nests grew significantly faster than trees at other distances, followed by trees within 1 m of the nests. No growth differences were found between the growth of trees at 3–5 and 10–50 m from ant nests. We postulate that nutrient and carbohydrate removal of honeydew collected by ant‐tended aphids are slowing growth of tree. However, trees may partly compensate for this depletion by having access to a larger supply of soil nutrients near ant nests.
Detection of HBV core promoter and precore mutations helps distinguish flares of chronic hepatitis from acute hepatitis B
Authors: Kusumoto Koichiro , Yatsuhashi Hiroshi , Nakao Rumiko , Hamada Rumiko , Fukuda Mika , Tamada Yoko , Taura Naota , Komori Atsumasa , Daikoku Manabu , Hamasaki Keisuke , Nakao Kazuhiko , Ishibashi Hiromi , Miyakawa Yuzo , Eguchi Katsumi
Published: April 2008

Background and Aim:  Acute exacerbation of chronic hepatitis B has to be distinguished from acute hepatitis, because treatment strategies differ between them.

Methods:  Mutations in the core promoter and precore region of hepatitis B virus (HBV) were determined in 36 patients with acute exacerbation of chronic hepatitis B, in whom alanine aminotransferase (ALT) increased above 500 IU/L, as well as the 36 patients with acute hepatitis.

Results:  Mutations in the core promoter (A1762T/G1764A) and precore region (G1896A) were more frequent in patients with acute exacerbation of chronic hepatitis than acute hepatitis (81% vs 19%; P < 0.0001 and 58% vs 6%; P < 0.0001, respectively). Of the 19 patients with mutations in both the core promoter and precore region, 17 (89%) had acute exacerbation of chronic hepatitis. In contrast, among the 32 patients with the wild‐type for both the core promoter and precore region, 29 (89%) developed acute hepatitis. By multivariate analysis, the double mutation in the core promoter was predictive of acute exacerbation in chronic hepatitis with the highest odds ratio at 26.4.

Conclusions:  In patients with hepatitis B having ALT levels >500 IU/L, mutations in the core promoter and precore region are useful in distinguishing acute exacerbation of chronic from acute HBV infection. Detection of these mutations would be useful for commencing prompt antiviral treatments on patients with acute exacerbation of chronic hepatitis for a better prognosis.
Randomised comparison of the FerX Ella antireflux stent and the ultraflex stent: Proton pump inhibitor combination for prevention of post‐stent reflux in patients with esophageal carcinoma involving the esophago‐gastric junction
Authors: Sabharwal Tarun , Gulati Manpreet S , Fotiadis Nikolas , Dourado Renato , Botha Abrie , Mason Robert , Adam Andreas
Published: April 2008

Background and Aim:  Metal stents placed across the gastroesophageal junction in patients with malignant dysphagia frequently present with reflux symptoms. We compared an antireflux stent with a standard open stent used in combination with proton pump inhibitor medication.

Methods:  Forty‐nine patients with dysphagia due to inoperable carcinoma in the lower third of the esophagus were randomly selected to receive either a antireflux valve stent (FerX‐Ella) (n = 22) or a covered standard open stent (Ultraflex), which was combined with proton pump inhibitors such as omeprazole (n = 26). The technical success, the presence of reflux, and complications were recorded.

Results:  Reflux was seen in 3/22 patients (13.6%) in the FerX‐Ella group and in 2/26 patients (7.7%) in the Ultraflex and proton pump inhibitor combination group (P‐value not significant). In both groups, a significant improvement in the dysphagia score was seen and no statistically significant difference was detected between the two groups (P = 0.84). The FerX‐Ella stents migrated more frequently (32%) than the Ultraflex stents (23%). This also necessitated surgical intervention more frequently in the FerX‐Ella group (2/22, 9.1%) compared to the Ultraflex group (1/26, 3.8%).

Conclusion:  The antireflux stent had no demonstrable advantages compared to the combination of standard open stent and proton pump inhibitor medication.
End of life in the intensive care unit: knowledge and practice of clinicians from Karachi, Pakistan
Authors: Salahuddin N. , Shafqat S. , Mapara S. , Khan S. , Siddiqui S. , Manasia R. , Ahmad A.
Published: April 2008

Background:  With improvements in the care of critically ill, physicians are faced with obligations to provide quality end‐of‐life care. Barriers to this include inadequate understanding of the dying patient and withdrawal or limitation of care. The objectives of this study were to document the comprehensions of physicians and nurses regarding the recognition and practice of end‐of‐life care for critically ill patients placed on life support in the intensive care unit.

Methods:  This was a cross‐sectional study carried out at three hospitals in Karachi. Chi‐squared analysis and one‐way anova were used to compare differences in response between the groups.

Results:  One hundred and thirty‐seven physicians and critical care nurses completed the survey. ‘Brain death’ was defined as an ‘irreversible cessation of brainstem function’ by 85% respondents, with 50% relying on specialty consultation. Withdrawal of life support is practised by 83.2%; physicians are more likely (Chi square test P‐value < 0.001) to withdraw mechanical ventilation, compared with nurses who would withdraw vasopressors (P‐value 0.006). In a do not resuscitate patient, 72.3% use vasopressors, 83% initiate haemodialysis and 17.5% use non‐invasive ventilation; 72.6% consult Hospital Ethics Committees; 16% respondents never withdraw life support; 28.3% considered it their responsibility to ‘sustain life at all costs’ and only 8% gave religious beliefs as a reason.

Conclusions:  There are confusions in the definition of brain death, end‐of‐life recognition and indications and processes of withdrawal of life support. There are discrepancies between physicians’ and nurses’ perceptions and attitudes. Clearly, teaching programmes will need to incorporate cultural and religious differences in their ethics curricula.
Glucose control peri‐myocardial infarction
Authors: Braatvedt G. D.
Published: April 2008

This review summarises the available clinical trials data investigating the effects of glucose lowering on mortality in patients admitted to hospital with acute myocardial infarction. The results of these studies are inconclusive with no clear evidence that this intervention has additional benefit over and above routine care.
Glucose control during acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Cheung N. W.
Published: April 2008

The need for tight glycaemic control in the immediate aftermath of myocardial infarction is controversial. Trials of glucose–insulin–potassium (GIK) therapy, given without regard to glucose levels, have only confused the issue. Despite considerable clinical interest, only three randomized controlled trials have, as their primary goal, aimed to determine whether better glycaemic control improves the outcomes of myocardial infarction. This review examines the results of these trials and other data to support the case for tight glycaemic control in patients with myocardial infarction.
Ecological consequences of genetic diversity
Authors: Hughes A. Randall , Inouye Brian D. , Johnson Marc T. J. , Underwood Nora , Vellend Mark
Published: April 2008

Understanding the ecological consequences of biodiversity is a fundamental challenge. Research on a key component of biodiversity, genetic diversity, has traditionally focused on its importance in evolutionary processes, but classical studies in evolutionary biology, agronomy and conservation biology indicate that genetic diversity might also have important ecological effects. Our review of the literature reveals significant effects of genetic diversity on ecological processes such as primary productivity, population recovery from disturbance, interspecific competition, community structure, and fluxes of energy and nutrients. Thus, genetic diversity can have important ecological consequences at the population, community and ecosystem levels, and in some cases the effects are comparable in magnitude to the effects of species diversity. However, it is not clear how widely these results apply in nature, as studies to date have been biased towards manipulations of plant clonal diversity, and little is known about the relative importance of genetic diversity vs. other factors that influence ecological processes of interest. Future studies should focus not only on documenting the presence of genetic diversity effects but also on identifying underlying mechanisms and predicting when such effects are likely to occur in nature.
Plant behaviour and communication
Authors: Karban Richard
Published: April 2008

Plant behaviours are defined as rapid morphological or physiological responses to events, relative to the lifetime of an individual. Since Darwin, biologists have been aware that plants behave but it has been an underappreciated phenomenon. The best studied plant behaviours involve foraging for light, nutrients, and water by placing organs where they can most efficiently harvest these resources. Plants also adjust many reproductive and defensive traits in response to environmental heterogeneity in space and time. Many plant behaviours rely on iterative active meristems that allow plants to rapidly transform into many different forms. Because of this modular construction, many plant responses are localized although the degree of integration within whole plants is not well understood. Plant behaviours have been characterized as simpler than those of animals. Recent findings challenge this notion by revealing high levels of sophistication previously thought to be within the sole domain of animal behaviour. Plants anticipate future conditions by accurately perceiving and responding to reliable environmental cues. Plants exhibit memory, altering their behaviours depending upon their previous experiences or the experiences of their parents. Plants communicate with other plants, herbivores and mutualists. They emit cues that cause predictable reactions in other organisms and respond to such cues themselves. Plants exhibit many of the same behaviours as animals even though they lack central nervous systems. Both plants and animals have faced spatially and temporally heterogeneous environments and both have evolved plastic response systems.
Direct photographic documentation of ileal mucosa in routine colonoscopy is not an independent valid or reliable proof of completion: quality assurance issues for the national colorectal cancer‐screening programme
Authors: Baraza W. , Brown S. , Shorthouse A. J. , Tiffin N. , Hurlstone D. P.
Published: April 2008

Introduction  The implementation of bowel cancer screening in the UK requires the maintenance of high standards in colonoscopy. Part of this quality control requires the reliable documentation of complete colonoscopy that can be externally audited and assessed. It has been suggested that terminal ileal biopsy is the only definitive and reliable method of confirming caecal intubation, but it is not cost‐effective and may now be contraindicated because of potential prion infection.

Objective  To determine how reliable routine terminal ileal images were as an independent predictor of complete colonoscopy and whether their interpretation was aided with water insufflation or indigo‐carmine dye‐spraying.

Method  Forty‐nine histologically confirmed terminal ileal images were obtained from a single endoscopist’s database; 19 were conventional white‐light images, 15 were taken with water insufflation and 15 were taken using chromoscopy enhancement. The images were transferred onto CD‐ROM and sent as a questionnaire to 42 colonoscopists who were asked to identify the images as terminal ileum or not.

Results  Twenty questionnaires were returned resulting in a total of 980 responses. Overall, the accuracy of positive identification was 53.4%. Water insufflation and chromoscopy improved the accuracy to 68.3% and 63% respectively. Experience of (> 1000 colonoscopies) did not increase overall accuracy. Less experienced endoscopists had an increased accuracy rate with dye‐spraying (76.7%vs 59.3%, P < 0.05) but experienced endoscopists had an increased accuracy rate with water insufflation (67.4%vs 63.3%, P > .05).

Conclusion  Currently, terminal ileal imaging is not a reliable mode of documenting complete colonoscopy. Using water insufflation or dye‐spraying coupled with modifications in image acquisition technique may improve its reliability but these methods require further investigation before they can replace the use of caecal landmarks as completion parameters.
Free radical activity and lipid soluble anti‐oxidant vitamin status in patients with long‐term ileal pouch‐anal anastomosis
Authors: El Muhtaseb M. S. , Talwar D. , Duncan A. , St J O’reilly D. , Mckee R. F. , Anderson J. H. , Foulis A. , Finlay I. G.
Published: April 2008

Objective  Ileal pouch‐anal anastomosis (IPAA) is the operation of choice for patients with ulcerative colitis. Free radical activity and the status of lipid soluble antioxidant vitamins have not been previously assessed in patients with IPAA. The aim of the present study was to measure the plasma concentrations of lipophyllic antioxidants and free radical activity in IPAA patients and compare them with normal subjects.

Method  Forty‐eight IPAA patients and 50 healthy controls were studied. A dietary assessment of vitamin E (α‐tocopherol) and carotene was undertaken and plasma antioxidant status was assessed. Plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) was measured to assess the extent of free radical damage. In IPAA patients, association between the degree of inflammation in the pouch mucosa and the plasma concentration of lipophyllic antioxidants and extent of free radical activity was investigated.

Results  The dietary intake of carotene was similar in both groups. Intake of vitamin E was significantly lower in patients than controls (P = 0.01). In the IPAA group plasma concentrations of α‐carotene, β‐carotene and lycopene were significantly lower (P < 0.001) and α‐tocopherol:cholesterol ratio significantly higher (P < 0.001). Free radical damage was significantly greater in patients than controls (P < 0.01). There were no significant correlations between the degree of inflammation in the pouch and plasma concentrations of MDA, carotenoids, α‐tocopherol:cholesterol ratio or intake of vitamins.

Conclusion  Compared with normal subjects, patients with IPAA have significantly lower plasma concentrations of lipophyllic antioxidants α‐carotene, β‐carotene and lycopene and higher free radical activity suggesting increased oxidative stress. These differences do not appear to be related to diet and do not correlate with histological severity of pouch inflammation.
Controversies of US‐USSR Cultural Contacts During the Cold War: The Perspective of Latvian Refugees1
Authors: ZAKE IEVA
Published: April 2008

Abstract  This article analyzes the conflict that emerged regarding the so‐called US‐USSR “cultural contacts” during the Cold War within the exile community of American Latvians. While most of the American political and cultural elites saw cultural exchanges with the Soviets as beneficial, the reactions of the émigrés were much more controversial and polarizing. This study reveals the unrecognized side of the Cold War politics as experienced by the refugee groups. The study employs American, Latvian and Soviet publications, memoirs, interviews and archival materials.
Goal Striving Within Agentic and Communal Roles: Separate but Functionally Similar Pathways to Enhanced Well‐Being
Authors: Sheldon Kennon M. , Cooper M. Lynne
Published: April 2008

ABSTRACT
Do agency and communion strivings provide functionally similar but predictively independent pathways to enhanced well‐being? We tested this idea via a year‐long study of 493 diverse community adults. Our process model, based on self‐determination and motive disposition theories, fit the data well. First, the need for achievement predicted initial autonomous motivation for agentic (work and school) role‐goals and the need for intimacy predicted felt autonomy for communal (relationship and parenting) goals. For both agentic and communal goals, autonomous motivation predicted corresponding initial expectancies that predicted later goal attainment. Finally, each type of attainment predicted improved adjustment or role‐satisfaction over the year. Besides being similar across agency and communion, the model was also similar across race and gender, except that the beneficial effects of communal goal attainment were stronger for high need for intimacy women and Blacks. Implications for agency/communion theories, motivation theories, and theories of well‐being are discussed.
Comparing Clinical and Social‐Personality Conceptualizations of Narcissism
Authors: Miller Joshua D. , Campbell W. Keith
Published: April 2008

ABSTRACT
There is a lack of consensus surrounding the conceptualization of narcissism. The present study compared two measures of narcissism—one used in clinical settings (Personality Diagnostic Questionnaire, PDQ‐4+; Hyler, 1994) and one used in social‐personality research (Narcissistic Personality Inventory, NPI; Raskin & Terry, 1988)—across two samples. Sample 1 (N=271) was composed of undergraduates, whereas Sample 2 (N=211) was composed of parents of the Sample 1 participants. The scales were significantly interrelated but manifested divergent relations with general personality traits, personality disorders (including expert prototypal ratings of narcissism), recollections of parenting received, and psychological distress and self‐esteem. PDQ‐4 narcissism captured an emotionally unstable, negative‐affect‐laden, and introverted variant of narcissism; NPI narcissism captured an emotionally resilient, extraverted form. The clinical and social‐personality conceptualizations of narcissism primarily share a tendency to use an antagonistic interpersonal style. Implications for the DSM‐V are discussed.
Perceived Parental Conditional Regard and Autonomy Support as Predictors of Young Adults' Self‐ Versus Other‐Oriented Prosocial Tendencies
Authors: Roth Guy
Published: April 2008

ABSTRACT
The current research examined the relations of parental conditional regard and autonomy‐supportive parenting with levels of internalization and self‐ versus other‐oriented helping tendencies. As predicted from self‐determination theory, college students' perceptions of parental conditional regard correlated positively with introjection internalization and self‐oriented helping tendencies. Autonomy‐supportive parenting predicted fuller internalization and other‐oriented helping. Results suggest that the relations between parental practices and prosocial orientations are mediated by the level of internalization that was predicted by each parental practice.
Parents' Stories of Grandparenting Concerns in the Three‐Generational Family: Generativity, Optimism, and Forgiveness
Authors: Pratt Michael W. , Norris Joan E. , Cressman Kate , Lawford Heather , Hebblethwaite Shannon
Published: April 2008

ABSTRACT
Adults' level of Eriksonian generativity in midlife has been shown to predict variations in parenting, but there has been less research on its relation to inter generational processes in the three‐generational family. As part of a larger study, a sample of 35 Canadian mothers and fathers described a particular, salient child‐rearing problem with grandparents when their first‐born children were 8 years old. Descriptions were rated for severity of the problem, anger/irritation, optimism about solution, and forgiveness of the grandparent's behavior. Generativity data were collected by a standard questionnaire (the Loyola Generativity Scale of McAdams; McAdams & de St. Aubin, 1992). Results showed few gender differences, though mothers tended to be angrier than fathers with the grandparents. More mature parents were more forgiving than younger parents and saw problems as less serious, as predicted. Finally, parent level of generativity predicted maternal and paternal forgiveness of grandparent behaviors, as well as paternal, but not maternal, optimism about problem outcomes. Parental generativity may thus serve to encourage greater forgiveness and optimism among the generations of the family.
Personality in Germany and Minnesota: An IRT‐Based Comparison of MPQ Self‐Reports
Authors: Johnson Wendy , Spinath Frank , Krueger Robert F. , Angleitner Alois , Riemann Rainer
Published: April 2008

ABSTRACT
We compared personality across cultures to explore the extent of cultural differences. This study used samples matched on gender and age from Germany and Minnesota to compare traditional scale scores and IRT‐based parameters for Tellegen's (1982) Multidimensional Personality Questionnaire scales. Because the samples consisted of twins, we were able to replicate the findings from the subsamples consisting of one member of each pair with the subsamples consisting of their co‐twins. When the full scales were considered, Germans were higher in Aggression and Absorption and Minnesotans were higher in Well‐being, Control, and Traditionalism, but, except for those in Traditionalism, different item‐difficulty parameters explained most of these differences. IRT highlighted less than optimal scale properties as well as differentially functioning items. We discuss the theoretical implications of these findings.
‘FAIR BENEFITS’ ACCOUNTS OF EXPLOITATION REQUIRE A NORMATIVE PRINCIPLE OF FAIRNESS: RESPONSE TO GBADEGESIN AND WENDLER, AND EMANUEL ET AL.
Authors: BALLANTYNE ANGELA
Published: April 2008

In 2004 Emanuel et al. published an influential account of exploitation in international research, which has become known as the ‘fair benefits account’. In this paper I argue that the thin definition of fairness presented by Emanuel et al, and subsequently endorsed by Gbadegesin and Wendler, does not provide a notion of fairness that is adequately robust to support a fair benefits account of exploitation. The authors present a procedural notion of fairness – the fair distribution of the benefits of research is to be determined on a case‐by‐case basis by the parties involved in each study. The fairness of the distribution of benefits is not assessed against an independent normative standard. Emanuel et al.'s account of fairness provides a framework for objecting only to transactions that occur without the fully informed consent of the weaker party. As a result, a debate about exploitation collapses into a debate about consent. This is problematic because, as the proponents of the fair benefits framework acknowledge, neither the trial participants' consent nor the host community's consent preclude exploitation. Attempts to stipulate normative standards of fairness to protect research subjects in developing countries have been controversial and divisive, and it is therefore understandable that bioethicists would be tempted to develop accounts of exploitation that are independent of such prescriptive principles. I conclude, however, that the utility of the fair benefits model of exploitation as a policy tool will ultimately depend on whether a substantive principle of fairness can be developed to underpin it.
The Churchill Syndrome: Reputational Entrepreneurship and the Rhetoric of Foreign Policy since 1945
Authors: Toye Richard
Published: April 2008

Since 9/11, many politicians have deployed the memory of Winston Churchill in support of their own goals. This article examines this phenomenon—‘the Churchill Syndrome’—in the context of the use made of Churchillian language and imagery by British and American politicians in their rhetoric over the previous several decades. It does not seek to establish whether or not analogies with the Churchill era have been correct, but rather, using the concept of ‘reputational entrepreneurship’, it examines the historical reasons why these comparisons have often been preferred to others that might have been equally valid. It concludes that although Churchill has come to represent an idealised form of political steadfastness—referenced even by Gamal Abdul Nasser and Saddam Hussein—this portrayal of him has never achieved total hegemony.
Containing Dialogue: The British Government and Early Talks in the Northern Ireland Peace Process
Authors: Spencer Graham
Published: April 2008

This article examines the role of the British government in talks with republicans and loyalists during the early stages of the Northern Ireland peace process. Since the priority of both the British and Irish governments was to draw paramilitary groups away from violence towards the political process, it was necessary to engage representatives of those groups in dialogue and demonstrate that political goals were more likely to be achieved through debate than violence. Drawing from interviews with key British government figures involved in talks at that time, this study identifies how the British sought to draw republicans and loyalists into the political process and how dialogue was used to assist the development of political representation within paramilitarism.
Thinking Ahead: David Cameron, the Henry Jackson Society and British Neo-Conservatism
Authors: Dodds Klaus , Elden Stuart
Published: April 2008

The Conservative party under David Cameron's leadership has embarked on a series of foreign policy initiatives which appear to revise the political right's traditional reluctance to interfere in third-party conflicts with no obvious British interest. This article looks at whether this shift is substantial through an examination of Cameron's and William Hague's foreign policy pronouncements. Its particular focus is to discuss whether the Henry Jackson Society, a group of academics, parliamentarians and journalists, is exercising any influence over Conservative party foreign policy discussion. Finally, we consider how critics including individuals associated with the Henry Jackson Society have evaluated Cameron's and Hague's tentative interventionist convictions. It is suggested that the notion that idealism in foreign policy has to be conditioned by realism is actually a reworking of Blair's foreign policy, especially when applied to overseas intervention.
Cave! Hic Everyday Life: Repetition, Hegemony and the Social
Authors: Antoniades Andreas
Published: April 2008

The article aspires to bring everyday life and social repetition under the spotlight of political theorising and examine their emancipatory potential. To do so it engages with two competing understandings of hegemony in radical political theory: one based on transcendence and social antagonisms and the other based on immanence and everyday life. The main thesis of the article is that in order to understand the ontological foundations of social hegemony we need to shift our focus from social antagonisms and hegemonic representations to social repetition. The article starts with an exposition of Laclau's radical theory of hegemony and its limitations. It then develops a counter ontological reading, an ‘ontology of social repetition’, based on the work of Maurice Blanchot and Gilles Deleuze. The article concludes by examining what kinds of agency are present in social repetition, and how these can be translated into social action and strategies for social change.