bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic evaluation of dairy cattle for conformation traits using random regression models
Authors: Uribe H. , Schaeffer L. R. , Jamrozik J. , Lawlor T. J.
Published: September 2010

Random regression models were applied to eight conformation traits (i.e. stature, rump angle, thurl width, rear leg set, rear udder width, rear udder height, udder depth, and fore udder attachment) of Holstein cows from the northeastern United States. Covariates for fixed and random regressions included age and age‐squared for six of the traits, and two additional covariates were included for rear udder width and rear udder height. Other effects in the model were herd—year‐classifier and months in milk. Fixed covariates were nested within year of birth of the cow. Variance components were estimated using Bayesian theory and Gibbs sampling procedure. Estimated breeding values from the random regression models were compared to two single trait models. The first model utilized only the first classification record of the cow in first lactation, and the second model utilized all classifications of the cow in a simple repeatability model. Additive genetic merit for conformation traits changed with the age of the animal. Some traits were affected by age more than others. The single trait, single record model and the simple repeatability model were not appropriate in predicting breeding values at mature ages for rear udder width and rear udder height.
Coat colour genes in diversity studies
Authors: Klungland H. , Olsen H. G. , Hassanane M. S. , Mahrous K. , Våge D. I.
Published: September 2010

In this paper we describe the use of polymorphic genes affecting coat colour as a tool in diversity studies of domestic animals. Although phenotypic data has been the main criteria for establishing different breeds, calculation of genetic distances between breeds is normally performed using noncoding microsatellite markers. As anticipated, MC1‐R (melanocyte stimulating hormone receptor) allele frequencies vary greatly between cattle breeds expressing different coat colours. In multicoloured breeds, like Icelandic cattle, a high frequency of the E+ allele appears to be essential for colour variation. Whereas black breeds have a high frequency of the dominant acting allele ED, entirely red breeds have no ED. Animals being homozygous for the defective allele e occurred frequently in some cattle breeds, indicating that the MC1‐R does not have crucial impact on animal physiology other than coat colour. The E+ and e alleles were observed in the closely related river buffalo as well. None of the breeds included in this study express the roan phenotype. Consequently, they were monomorphic at the MGF locus. As for the MC1‐R locus, a correlation to colour pattern was observed for two c‐kit alleles as well, confirming that selection of specific phenotypes strongly affect the allelic variation of underlying loci. Information on genes affecting the phenotype is therefore well suited for describing different breeds of livestock and, consequently, a practical tool in breed conservation.
Effects of nonrandom parental selection on estimation of variance components
Authors: Schenkel F.S. , Schaeffer L.R.
Published: September 2010

Bayesian estimation via Gibbs sampling, REML, and Method R were compared for their empirical sampling properties in estimating genetic parameters from data subject to parental selection using an infinitesimal animal model. Models with and without contemporary groups, random or nonrandom parental selection, two levels of heritability, and none or 15% randomly missing pedigree information were considered. Nonrandom parental selection caused similar effects on estimates of variance components from all three methods. When pedigree information was complete, REML and Bayesian estimation were not biased by nonrandom parental selection for models with or without contemporary groups. Method R estimates, however, were strongly biased by nonrandom parental selection when contemporary groups were in the model. The bias was empirically shown to be a consequence of not fully accounting for gametic phase disequilibrium in the subsamples. The joint effects of nonrandom parental selection and missing pedigree information caused estimates from all methods to be highly biased. Missing pedigree information did not cause biased estimates in random mating populations. Method R estimates usually had greater mean square errors than did REML and Bayesian estimates.
Variation between ranch blue fox populations in cranial form
Authors: Welling J. , Harri M. , Rekilä T. , Rouvinen‐Watt K. , Braastad B. O.
Published: September 2010

The aim of this study was to describe the differences in cranial size and shape that occur between different farmed blue fox populations within and between countries. The skulls were obtained at the pelting time from three Finnish, one Estonian, one Norwegian and seven Canadian farms. The material was subjected to a principal component (PC) analysis for each sex. The first PC‐factor explained about 50% of variation. It was identified as the size factor; it discriminated Finnish blue foxes at one end and Nova Scotia foxes at the other end of the scale. The second PC‐factor explained about 10% of variation in skull morphology but failed to discriminate the populations. The third factor, which was dominated by interorbital width, discriminated Nova Scotia foxes from the other populations. PC‐factor 4 received its highest loading from the length of upper tooth row. This factor differentiated, although poorly, the Newfoundland fox populations, whether local or crosses between the local and the imported Finnish stock, from the others. The sexes were significantly different on most single parameters and the skulls of all farm populations were larger than those of wild Arctic foxes. However, there were also large differences in skull morphology between farms within one country. This shows that farmed blue foxes in different countries have not yet diverged into anatomically distinct populations.
Prediction of response to marker‐assisted and genomic selection using selection index theory
Authors: Dekkers J. C. M.
Published: September 2010

Selection index methods can be used for deterministic assessment of the potential benefit of including marker information in genetic improvement programmes using marker‐assisted selection (MAS). By specifying estimates of breeding values derived from marker information (M‐EBV) as a correlated trait with heritability equal to 1, it was demonstrated that marker information can be incorporated in standard software for selection index predictions of response and rates of inbreeding, which requires specifying phenotypic traits and their genetic parameters. Path coefficient methods were used to derive genetic and phenotypic correlations between M‐EBV and the phenotypic data. Methods were extended to multi‐trait selection and to the case when M‐EBV are based on high‐density marker genotype data, as in genomic selection. Methods were applied to several example scenarios, which confirmed previous results that MAS substantially increases response to selection but also demonstrated that MAS can result in substantial reductions in the rates of inbreeding. Although further validation by stochastic simulation is required, the developed methodology provides an easy means of deterministically evaluating the potential benefits of MAS and to optimize selection strategies with availability of marker data.
Serum osteocalcin in donkeys as evaluated with an equine‐specific radioimmunoassay
Authors: Carstanjen B. , Amory H. , Youssao I. , Remy B.
Published: September 2010

The purpose of this study was to validate an equine‐specific osteocalcin (OC) radioimmunoassay (RIA) for use in donkeys and to establish age‐related changes in serum OC concentrations in healthy donkeys. Serial dilutions of donkey serum showed parallelism with standard curves obtained with the equine‐specific OC RIA. There was a tight linear regression between donkey serum OC values obtained with the equine specific OC RIA and a commercially available bovine‐specific OC RIA. Serum OC levels of 27 healthy donkeys, analysed with the equine‐specific OC RIA, showed a tight negative logarithmic regression with age. Least square means and standard error of serum OC values were 67 ± 10 μg/l in 0.6–4‐year‐old donkeys (group 1), 32 ± 9 μg/l in 5–9‐year‐old donkeys (group 2) and 15 ± 11 μg/l in >9‐year‐old donkeys (group 3). Serum OC values were significantly (p < 0.01) higher in group 1 than in groups 2 and 3. The equine‐specific OC RIA may be a useful and practical tool to assess bone metabolism and skeletal diseases in donkeys.
Prevalence of Osteochondrosis in the Limb Joints of South German Coldblood Horses
Authors: Wittwer C. , Hamann H. , Rosenberger E. , Distl O.
Published: September 2010

This study aimed to quantify the factors associated with the prevalence of the radiological signs of osteochondrosis (OC) and osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) in South German Coldblood (SGC) horses. The prevalence of OC and OCD in fetlock and hock joints was analysed in 167 young coldblood horses with a mean age of 14 months. The presence of at least one osteochondrotic lesion (OC) in fetlock or hock joints was documented for 61.7% of the horses and 26.9% of the horses had osseus fragments. Osteochondrotic findings at the dorsal aspect of the sagittal ridge of the third metacarpal/metatarsal bone were seen in 53.9% of the horses and palmar/plantar osseous fragments in fetlock joints in 16.2% of the horses. Hock joint OC was found in 40.1% of the horses and hock OCD in 0.6%. Osteochondrotic findings in the distal part of the tibia were prevalent in 28.1% and in the lateral trochlea tali in 17.4% of the horses. The sex of the investigated horses significantly influenced the prevalence of OC in fetlock and hock joints, as well as the findings in the distal part of the tibia and lateral trochlea tali. Age at radiological examination was significant for the prevalence of OC in hock joints, palmar/plantar osseous fragments in fetlock joints and osteochondrotic findings in the distal part of the tibia. Female horses showed a 2‐fold higher risk for OC in fetlock and hock joints than male horses. The distribution of the affected horses by age classes showed that radiographic signs of OC in fetlock and hock joints significantly increased at an age of about 1 year. We can conclude from our study that fetlock and hock OC is a prevalent radiographic finding in more than 1‐year‐old female and male SGC horses.
Development of a cDNA‐AFLP derived CAPS marker co‐segregating with the powdery mildew resistance gene Mlg in barley
Authors: Korell M. , Eschholz T. W. , Eckey C. , Biedenkopf D. , Kogel Marc K.‐H. , Friedt W. , Ordon F.
Published: September 2010

Powdery mildew is an important pathogen of barley in many barley‐growing areas. To identify molecular markers for the resistance gene Mlg located on chromosome 4H, a cDNA‐AFLP approach was carried out on near‐isogenic lines. Based on the identification of a differentiating fragment of 37 bp, which turned out to be part of a nucleoside diphosphate kinase as estimated by blastn, a CAPS marker has been developed, which co‐segregated with Mlg in a population of 738 F2‐plants. Due to its co‐dominant inheritance, clear banding pattern and close linkage this marker is well suited for marker‐based selection procedures.
Development of an ISSR‐derived PCR marker linked to nematode resistance (Ha2) in spring barley
Authors: Dayteg C. , Rasmussen M. , Tuvesson S. , Merker A. , Jahoor A.
Published: September 2010

Cereal cyst nematodes (Heterodera avenae Woll.) are economically damaging barley parasites in most cereal growing areas of the world and the development of resistant cultivars is the best measure against the pathogen. An ISSR (inter‐simple sequence repeat) marker identified as closely linked with the H. avenae race 1 and 2 resistance gene (Ha2) has been converted into a codominant sequence characterized amplified region marker (Ha2S18) and mapped in barley ‘SW Buddy’ × ‘SW Cecilia’ DH population at 4.3 cM from the Ha2 locus on the long arm of chromosome 2H. The potential usefulness of Ha2S18 in large scale marker assisted selection schemes has been evaluated in a broad genetic background and is an important complement to the bioassay and to other linked DNA‐markers for this trait.
The cytoplasm effect comparison between Brassica napus and Brassica carinata on floral characteristics of Brassica oleracea
Authors: Chang C. T. , Kakihara F. , Hondo K. , Kato M.
Published: September 2010

With 6 figures and 3 tables

The present trial assesses the cytoplasmic effects of Brassica napus (AC) and Brassica carinata (BC) on certain characteristics of Brassica rapa (A), Brassica oleracea (C) and Brassica nigra (B). Alloplasmic lines were developed from AC × A, AC × C, BC × B and BC × C hybrids followed by recurrent backcrossing for seven generations. Twenty‐five populations from three generations were compared. The alloplasmic B. oleracea lines with AC‐cytoplasm exhibited the shortest filament length, weakly developed anthers, smaller petal size and more than two stigmas, whereas the alloplasmic B. rapa lines with AC‐cytoplasm were normal; the alloplasmic B. oleracea lines with BC‐cytoplasm formed three groups with short, middle or normal filament length, whereas the alloplasmic B. nigra lines with BC‐cytoplasm were normal. From these results, it was concluded that the cytoplasm effect of AC on C is greater than that on A; BC on C is greater than that on B, further suggesting that the cytoplasm effect of AC on C is greater than that of BC on C.
The Evolution of the Endozepine‐like Peptide (ELP) in the Mammalian Testis
Authors: Ivell R , Balvers M
Published: September 2010

The endozepine‐like peptide (ELP) is a testis‐specific isoform of the acyl‐CoA binding protein (ACBP) and shares the latter’s peptide motif for binding mid‐long chain acyl‐CoA groups. ELP is expressed both as mRNA and protein at high levels in the testes of a wide range of mammals, including rodents, carnivores and ruminants. However, the ELP gene is progressively inactivated through primate evolution, with no protein detectable in a range of primates studied, including human. In nonprimate species, ELP is expressed in very late postmeiotic germ cell stages only, such that its function in these species is probably associated with the metabolism of the mature spermatozoon. Current research is looking at both the function of the ELP protein and the haploid regulation of the gene.
Resumption of Ovarian Cyclicity in Post‐partum Beef and Dairy Cows
Authors: Crowe MA
Published: September 2010

Contents

There is a variable anoestrous period following parturition in the cow. Follicular growth generally resumes within 7–10 days in the majority of cows associated with a transient follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) rise that occurs within 3–5 days of parturition. Dairy cows that are not nutritionally stressed generally ovulate their first post‐partum dominant follicle (∼15 days), whereas beef suckler cows in good body condition normally have a mean of 3.2 ± 0.2 dominant follicles (∼30 days) to first ovulation; and beef cows in poor body condition have a mean of 10.6 ± 1.2 dominant follicles (∼70–100 days) to first ovulation. The lack of ovulation of dominant follicles during the post‐partum period is associated with infrequent luteinizing hormone (LH) pulses, with both suckling and low level of nutrition being implicated in the prolonged suppression of LH pulses in the absence of progesterone. In dairy cows, the normal pattern of early resumption of ovulation may be delayed in high‐yielding Holstein‐type cows generally because of the effects of severe negative energy balance, dystocia, retained placental membranes and uterine infections. First ovulation in both dairy and beef cows is generally silent (i.e., no behavioural oestrus) and is generally (>70%) followed by a short cycle. The key to optimizing resumption of ovulation in both beef and dairy cows is appropriate pre‐calving nutrition and management so that cows calve down in optimal body condition (body condition score; BCS; 2.75–3.0) with post‐partum body condition loss restricted to <0.5 BCS units.
The Intermittent Suckling Regimen in Pigs: Consequences for Reproductive Performance of Sows
Authors: Gerritsen R , Soede NM , Langendijk P , Hazeleger W , Kemp B
Published: September 2010

Contents

Intermittent suckling (IS), a system in which the sow and the piglets are separated for a number of hours per day during lactation, is put forward as a system that can increase piglet welfare around weaning and also induce lactational oestrus. To be of practical use, IS regimes need to result in a predictable oestrus and good reproductive performance. This review describes the effects of IS on sow reproductive performance. During IS, the LH pulsatility pattern switches to a high frequency, low amplitude release during separation, as is normally observed at weaning. In sows that ovulate during IS, LH pulsatility remains higher than in anovulatory sows. Around 90% of the IS sows show follicle growth up to pre‐ovulatory size in a similar time period as sows post‐weaning. Depending on the stage of lactation that IS commenced, 13% (day 21) to 21% (day 14) of the sows with pre‐ovulatory follicles did not ovulate, but follicles either regressed or developed into cystic follicles. In the ovulatory IS sows oestradiol production is comparable but the LH surge is lower with an early start of IS (day 14) when compared with the weaned sows. Continuation of IS post‐ovulation has negative effects on pregnancy rate, embryo development and progesterone levels. Factors related to lactation (e.g. a high metabolic clearance rate), may play a role in this. In conclusion, IS can result in a fertile oestrus when the timing of start of IS and duration of IS are taken into account, but for practical use IS regimes result in a too variable reproductive performance.
Factors associated with adherence to antiretroviral therapy for the treatment of HIV‐infected women attending an urban care facility
Authors: Aspeling Heila E , Van Wyk Neltjie C
Published: September 2010

Adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) is often jeopardized by factors misapprehended by health‐care providers. As South Africa is severely affected by HIV and AIDS, identifying factors that influence adherence in this specific context becomes essential. An exploratory and descriptive case study design was used to further explore this subject and to identify factors that could influence adherence to ART. A significant correlation with international data was found. Most participants indicated that their traditional beliefs and customs did not interfere with their adherence to ART, although the lack of HIV education might facilitate reversion to traditional customs. Adequate treatment preparation, comprehensive HIV education and a supportive patient–provider relationship seemed to impact adherence significantly.
Factors influencing the clinical preparation of BS nursing student interns in Iran
Authors: Cheraghi Mohammad A , Salasli Mahvash , Ahmadi Fazlollah
Published: September 2010

Amalgamation of nursing education into universities has raised many questions about the nursing students' clinical preparation. Despite increased academic input into nursing education in Iran in recent years, the public and the government have criticized Iranian nurses regarding the poor quality of patient care. Using grounded theory methodology, in‐depth individual interviews were conducted with a theoretical sample of nine participants to better understand the perceptions of factors influencing the clinical preparation of BS nursing student interns. Three main clinical themes emerged from this study: (i) educator incompetency; (ii) nursing staff technical ability; and (iii) a non‐conducive learning environment.
Fasting in paediatric ambulatory surgery
Authors: Klemetti Seija , Suominen Tarja
Published: September 2010

The purpose of this descriptive study was to examine how preoperative fasting and postoperative termination of the fast was experienced in ambulatory surgery by child patients and their mothers. The target group consisted of children (n = 12, age 2–10 years) who had undergone tonsillectomy/adenoidectomy, and their mothers. In the interviews, the mothers were asked to describe the problems connected with their child's preoperative fast and postoperative termination of the fast, as well as the things that went well in the process. Content analysis was carried out inductively. Preoperatively, the children were thirsty and anxious, but understood the fasting situation well. In some cases, there were conflicts between the child and his/her parent if fasting was prolonged. Parents also had doubts about their ability to implement the child's fast. Postoperatively, children had pains in their throats and stomachs, suffered from nausea, and had difficulty taking in nutrition and medication. Parents had worries about their child's home care, such as food intake and administration of pain medication. The possibility of postoperative bleeding and exacerbation of the child's condition was also worrying for the parents. The most evident result of the study was that parents need more information before their child's operation. Preparing the child for the operation by giving him/her nutrition as long as permitted enhances postoperative recovery and improves parents' control over the ambulatory surgical experience. Nurses should take a more active part in children's perioperative fasting and preoperative preparation of children and their parents. In further research, experimental studies should be designed in order to receive more evidence‐based information for clinical practice.
Australian findings on Aboriginal cultural practices associated with clothing, hair, possessions and use of name of deceased persons
Authors: McGrath Pam , Phillips Emma
Published: September 2010

There is a significant cultural gap between westernized Australian and Aboriginal cultures, especially in regards to care of the dying. Thus, cultural sensitivity and respect, coupled with knowledge of the traditions and practices in respect of the death and dying, are of utmost importance in communicating with Aboriginal peoples. In order to make a contribution to furthering cultural safety in nursing practice, this article provides important insights on a wide range of Aboriginal cultural practices in relation to the clothing, hair, possessions and name of deceased persons that impact on the nursing care of the dying Aboriginal person.
Lithological and physical properties of core samples from the Sagara oil field: Oil occurrence in Sagara core samples
Authors: Hirano Satoshi , Araki Yoshiaki , Kameo Koji , Kitazato Hiroshi , Wada Hideki
Published: September 2010

Abstract  A drilling and coring investigation of the Sagara oil field, central Honshu, Japan, was conducted to contribute to the understanding of hydrocarbon migration processes in a forearc basin. Core samples were analyzed to determine lithology, physical properties (specifically gas permeability) and the characteristics of oil occurrence. Gas permeability values greater than approximately 10−11 m2 constitute the basic precondition for any lithology to serve as a potential fluid conduit or reservoir in the Sagara oil field. Cores recovered from the 200.6‐m‐deep borehole were primarily composed of alternating siltstone, sandstone and conglomerate, all of which are correlated to the late Miocene Sagara Group. Both sandstone and conglomerate can be classified into two types, carbonate‐cemented and poorly to non‐cemented, based on matrix material characteristics. Oil stains are generally absent in the former lithology and more common in the latter. Variations in physical properties with respect to gas permeability values are directly related to the presence and character of carbonate cement, with higher permeabilities common in poorly to non‐cemented rocks. The relationships between lithology, oil‐staining, cementation and permeability indicate that cementation preceded oil infiltration and that cementation processes exerted significant control on the evolution of the reservoir.
Culture‐dependent and independent analyses of subsurface microbial communities in oil‐bearing strata of the Sagara oil reservoir
Authors: Nunoura Takuro , Oida Hanako , Masui Noriaki , Inagaki Fumio , Takai Ken , Hirano Satoshi , Nealson Kenneth H. , Horikoshi Koki
Published: September 2010

Abstract  Culture‐dependent and independent methods were used to evaluate the microbial communities in cores collected at depths up to 200 m in oil‐bearing and oil‐free strata near the Sagara oil reservoir near Shizuoka, Japan. Direct microbial counts revealed much higher numbers (2.2 × 104−7.9 × 106/g) of microbes in the oil‐bearing strata than in the oil‐free zones, where counts were uniform at approximately 1.0 × 104/g. Molecular taxonomic analyses via 16S rRNA gene sequence comparisons showed that the oil‐free strata were dominated by members of the γ‐Proteobacteria including Pseudomonas, Stenotrophomonas and Sphingomonas, whereas the oil‐bearing strata were dominated by a single species closely related to Pseudomonas stutzeri. All archaeal clones were phylogenetically affiliated with the uncultured soil group in Crenarchaeota with the exception of a single phylotype that belonged to the genus Thermococcus. Culture‐dependent analysis was carried out by most‐probable‐number culturing as well as direct plating to determine viable cell counts, using both complex organic substrates or native oil and autotrophic media. Both culture‐dependent and independent methods revealed the abundant cultivable member was the aerobic oil‐degrading bacterium Pseudomonas stutzeri and neither autotrophs nor anaerobic heterotrophs could be detected in the oil‐bearing strata.
Effect of depositional processes on the origin and composition of organic matter: Examples from the Pleistocene sediments in the Choshi core, Boso Peninsula
Authors: Omura Akiko , Hoyanagi Koichi , Ishikawa Satoko
Published: September 2010

Abstract  Both marine and terrigenous organic matter are deposited in shelf and continental slope environments. In the present study, the relationship between environmental changes in the Choshi area and the sedimentation of organic matter was examined. The sediments of the Choshi core were deposited on a shelf environment and their lithology and ichnofacies, as well as the composition of the contained kerogen (insoluble organic matter) indicate a shallowing upward succession. The organic matter preserved in the sediments is of both marine and terrigenous origin, on the basis of C/N ratios (5.90–9.45), δ13C values (−21.6‰−24.6‰) and kerogen microscopy. The total organic carbon (TOC) content (0.39–1.08%) of the sediments shows a positive correlation with the increase of terrigenous organic matter before 500 ka, but decreases (0.26–0.61%) after 500 ka as the shelf environment becomes shallower because of dilution, caused by the input of terrigenous inorganic clasts, and oxidation. The variation in TOC contents was thus influenced by the increasing sedimentation rate of terrigenous materials, including both organic and inorganic particles as the basin filled.
Paleostress reconstructions based on calcite twins in the Joseon Supergroup, northeastern Ogcheon Belt (South Korea)
Authors: Kim Jun‐Mo , Jang Bo‐An , Obara Yuzo , Kang Seong‐Seung
Published: September 2010

Abstract  Paleostress of the Joseon Supergroup in the northeastern part of the Ogcheon Belt, South Korea, is reconstructed in the Jecheon–Danyang area with the help of calcite twinning. In the study area, the average twin thickness and intensity increase with the total twin strain increase. From the appearance of twins, the average twin thickness and intensity, and the total twin strain, it is estimated that calcite twins were produced under temperatures lower than 200°C. The maximum shortening axis in the study area changes orientation from northeast–southwest to NNW–SSE or northwest–southeast, and finally to north–south. We suggest these three distinct stages with different orientations of the maximum shortening axis can be correlated with: (i) the Paleozoic to Early Jurassic Songrim orogeny; (ii) the Early Jurassic to Late Jurassic Daebo orogeny; and (iii) the Cretaceous Bulgugsa orogeny.
Paleocene large‐scale normal faulting along the Median Tectonic Line, western Shikoku, Japan
Authors: Kubota Yasu'uchi , Takeshita Toru
Published: September 2010

Abstract  The Median Tectonic Line (MTL) in southwest Japan, a major east–west‐trending arc‐parallel fault, has been defined as the boundary fault between the Cretaceous Sambagawa metamorphic rocks and Ryoke granitic and metamorphic rocks, which are unconformably covered by the Upper Cretaceous Izumi Group. The juxtaposition by faulting occurred after the deposition of the Izumi Group. Based on detailed fieldwork and previous studies, the authors reconstruct the kinematic history along the MTL during the Paleogene period, which has not been fully understood before. It is noted that although the strata of the Izumi Group along the MTL dip gently, east–west‐trending north‐vergent folds with the wavelength of ∼300 m commonly develop up to 2 km north from the MTL. Along the MTL, a disturbed zone of the Izumi Group up to 400 m thick, defined by the development of boudinage structures with the transverse boudin axis dipping nearly parallel to the MTL, occurs. Furthermore, east–west‐trending north‐vergent folds with the wavelength of 1–5 m develop within the distance up to 60 m from the MTL. The disturbed zone with the map‐scale north‐vergent folds along the MTL, strongly suggests that they formed due to normal faulting with a top‐to‐the‐north sense along the MTL. Considering that the normal faulting is associated with the final exhumation of the Sambagawa metamorphic rocks, and its juxtaposition against the Izumi Group at depth, this perhaps occurred before the denudation of the Sambagawa metamorphic rocks indicated by the deposition of the Lower Eocene Hiwada‐toge Formation. Dynamic equilibrium between crustal thickening at depth (underplating) and extension at shallow level is a plausible explanation for the normal faulting because the arc‐normal extension suggests gravity as the driving force.
Improving the quality of health‐care: Personal reflections on some opportunities and impediments
Authors: Phelan Peter D
Published: September 2010

Abstract There are considerable opportunities for improving quality of health‐care but also significant impediments. Identifying, investigating and responding to adverse events in a way that will limit their chance of recurrence is probably the single greatest opportunity for quality improvement. However, this requires a shift from a culture of blame to one that recognises such events as almost always a system failure. A general rule, the shorter the duration of a hospital admission, the safer it will be, but regrettably this is not well understood by the community. The considerable variation in rates of many medical and surgical interventions between private and public patients and between patients living in different localities provides a great opportunity for determining what rates produce the best health outcomes. It is probable that reducing the health problems of the socioeconomically disadvantaged, a major quality issue, will require innovative approaches to delivery of their health‐care.
Making the best of consumer participation
Authors: Carr Brian James
Published: September 2010

Abstract Organizations that have engaged consumers in their work using traditional patient satisfaction tools have accomplished a number of significant outcomes. However, organizations are now being challenged to move into more meaningful collaborations with consumers regarding evaluating and improving services. This study describes and evaluates the effectiveness of consumer partnerships established to cover a project that lasted for about 4 months. Surveys were conducted with staff and consumers involved in the project. Structured questionnaires were used for both groups and the consumers were invited to focus interviews to explore specific issues. Issues regarding recruitment, preparation and management of consumers are important if satisfactory outcomes are to be realised. Further, staff attitudes and behaviours were examined that indicated staff shared the view that engagement of consumers was a worthwhile exercise. Quality consumer collaborations can bring about organizations being a highly valued community assets.
Audit of sedated versus unsedated gastroscopy: Do patients notice a difference?
Authors: Watson Jonathan Peter , Goss Carmel , Phelps Grant
Published: September 2010

Abstract Unsedated diagnostic gastroscopy has become widely accepted as a diagnostic procedure which avoids the risk of an anaesthetic. It also provides advantages for patients and hospitals in converting the procedure to an ambulatory care investigation. Patient perception of the procedure can sometimes differ from that of medical and nursing staff. We have decided to report our usual clinical practice by auditing 100 consecutive patients undergoing this procedure in a large rural private hospital. Patient tolerance was analyzed in various categories including degree of comfort, degree of pain, ease of breathing and willingness to repeat the procedure under the same conditions. The perceived comfort rating was compared between the patient, the endoscopist and the endoscopy nurse. A total of 100 consecutive patients were evaluated; 55 chose to be sedated and 45 were unsedated. Of the 100 patients tested, 88% stated they would have the procedure the same way if a repeat procedure was required. There was no significant difference between male/female or sedated/unsedated patients. The most important consideration for patients who chose to have the procedure unsedated was the ability to speak to the endoscopist immediately post‐procedure. Patient rating of pain was not significantly different between the sedated and unsedated groups. There was no significant difference in the independent assessment by the endoscopist and the nurse with respect to patient comfort in both the sedated and the unsedated groups. However, their assessment differed significantly from the patients own rating, as endoscopists and gastrointestinal (GI) nurses rated the patient degree of comfort as higher than the patients themselves (P < 0.01 for doctor/patient and nurse/patient score, Student’s t‐test). No complications were reported in either group of patients during the audit. Unsedated diagnostic gastroscopy is perceived to be an acceptable alternative to a sedated procedure by the majority of patients. Patients rate the procedure as more uncomfortable than their health care professionals, but the majority of patients would still have the repeat procedure the same way.
ACHS QUALITY AWARDS 2000 Quality is the way we do business
Authors: Cruickshank Nola , Bullock Jackie
Published: September 2010

Abstract Hollywood Private Hospital recognized that the use of quality management processes can achieve numerous benefits; however, for this to occur quality must be regarded as normal business practice rather than a separate programme. Therefore, the means of ensuring a quality service must be embedded in the strategic plans of both the organization and individual departments. The Hollywood Private Hospital Executive committed the organization to this approach further building on the ‘core values’ of the hospital by: integrating quality into the Strategic Planning of the organization; integrating risk management into the existing quality system; further embedding of the core values into the culture of the organisation; introducing systems thinking into the organization; taking a process improvement approach to improving quality; involving staff in Quality Action Teams and utilizing the Evaluation and Quality Improvement Programme as the management framework to co‐ordinate all the above.
Recovery following laparoscopic cholecystectomy in either a 23 hour or an 8 hour facility
Authors: Young Jeanne , O'Connell Bev
Published: September 2010

Abstract Research confirms that laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) results in shorter lengths of hospital stay and earlier return to usual activity than the traditional cholecystectomy procedure. Research in this area, however, focuses more on the medical aspects of patient recovery, but very few studies have evaluated how these patients manage their recovery at home or what types of problems they encounter. A total of 28 LC patients were randomly assigned to two groups: (1) 23 h stay (overnight) in a general surgical ward or (2) day procedure unit (DPU) stay. Data was collected by a self‐administered Postoperative Symptoms Diary and telephone interview. Results showed no significant difference between the two groups of patients recovery symptoms scores. Problems with mobility, pain and elimination recorded the highest mean scores for both groups of patients. Overnight patients also experienced problems with tiredness and eating. All DPU patients were able to manage their postoperative symptoms, compared to only 44% of patients who had stayed in overnight. Carer assistance was needed with regard to activities of daily living, child care and reassurance. Results showed that with careful selection of patients, LC cases performed as day procedures did not impact at all on the patients’ recovery trajectory.
Phenomenon of quality and health‐care: Snowball or an avalanche?
Authors: Ibrahim Joseph E
Published: September 2010

Abstract The quality‐of‐care in health as a phenomenon is developing through small incremental steps. Some suggest this approach is too slow and more rapid change is warranted. It is possible to achieve more rapid change by reaching a ‘tipping point’ or a critical level. To reach a critical level requires (i) identifying key people, (ii) having an idea that sticks, and (iii) having the right context. Examples from selected aspects of quality in health‐care including the use of report cards, recognition and remedial action for adverse events, the substantial reviews of health systems for quality‐of‐care suggest the critical level has been achieved. However, when the three rules for reaching the ‘tipping point’ are examined closely, it would seem that much more work is required to transform quality in health‐care from a snowball into an avalanche.
Modes and mechanisms of speciation in pteridophytes: Implications of contrasting patterns in ferns representing temperate and tropical habitats
Authors: Haufler Christopher H. , Hooper Elisabeth A. , Therrien James P.
Published: September 2010

Discovering how biological diversification results in species is one of the primary challenges facing evolutionary biologists. In the ferns, evidence indicates that dissimilar speciation modes and mechanisms may differentiate some temperate and tropical groups. The Polypodium sibiricum group contains three related diploid species that all inhabit rock outcrops in temperate forests. Although differing lettle in gross leaf morphology and joined by the distinctive morphological synapomorphy of sporangiasters, these three species have an average interspecific genetic identity developed from isozymic com‐parisons of only 0.460. A likely mode of speciation is that periodic glaciation pushed Po. sibiricum populations south and, with the retreat of the glaciers, southern populations persisted, evolved diagnostic traits, and ultimately erected postzygotic barriers to interbreeding. This hypothesis follows a classic allopatric speciation model and interspecific distinctions may have been reinforced through contact mediated by subsequent ice ages. In contrast, a monophyletic group of four diploid, epiphytic Pleopeltis species centered in Mexico has an isozymically‐determined average interspecific genetic identity value of 0.849. In spite of this high value, these species show greater morphological discrimination than do the Polypodium species. Although the species ranges overlap, they appear to occupy ecologically discrete habitats. These Pleopeltis species may have originated through adaptation to different ecological zones and developed individual morphologies in the process. The high interspecific genetic identity values among the Pleopeltis species suggest a relatively recent and/or rapid process. These hypotheses should be tested by further biosystematic investigations and the discovery of additional monophyletic assemblages with similar patterns of speciation.
Spatial genetic structure and non‐equilibrium demographics within plant populations
Authors: Epperson Bryan K.
Published: September 2010

Spatial genetic structure within plant populations is primarily determined by the effects of limited seed and pollen dispersal. In the absence of selfing, spatial genetic structure and limited pollen flow are generally considered to be the primary controlling factors of the dynamics of biparental inbreeding and inbreeding depression. However, in some cases spatial structure may depend on specific demographic processes. Most theoretical studies have focused on the long‐term or equilibrium structure of genetic variation, which allows, if demographic considerations are simple enough, a system to be collapsed into a single standardized measure (such as Wright's neighborhood size) of total pollen and seed dispersal distances. Specific demographic considerations may take many forms and strengths. In this paper we examine some particular cases that illustrate a wide range of effects on spatial genetic structure, and identify some of the most critical parameters. For example, Cecropia obtusifolia is a canopy‐gap‐filling, dioecious species. Perennially, the highly limited availability of habitat forces the removal of seedlings and the associated strong but ephemeral genetic structure, leaving one or a few trees to fill in each canopy gap. The structure among reproductive adults is minor and in line with standard amounts and forms expected for a wind‐pollinated species. In contrast, Silene dioica is a dioecious, bee‐pollinated, gravity‐seed‐dispersed perennial, and a colonizer or early successional species. In certain regions of Sweden, S. dioica grows primarily on uplifting islands that undergo rapid succession, and S. dioica exhibits exhibits extreme levels of spatial autocorrelation, caused by highly limited seed and pollen flow at a specific spatial scale that corresponds to demographic patches. Moreover, the types of genotypic concentrations in space vary, being dominated by matrilineal relationships. The availability of habitat rapidly increases, then rapidly decreases (with analogous changes in population growth rates), and, combined with a long‐life, causes the genetic structure to exist on such a time scale that it appears to be the main form of within‐population genetic structure for the species in this region. Clonal reproduction may have marked effects on the spatial genetic structure of plant populations. For monoecious, self‐compatible species, clonal groups may increase effective selfing, whereas in dioecious plants any effects on the development of IBD may be more subtle. We examine a number of dioecious plants with a variety of spatial distributions of clones and populations, existing for various time scales. The demographics of clonal structure may interact with spatial‐temporal demographics and structure of the genetic variation.
Side‐effects and treatment with clozapine: A comparison between the views of consumers and their clinicians
Authors: Hodge Kay , Jespersen Sean
Published: September 2010

ABSTRACT:  This study sought to clarify the prevalence of various side‐effects experienced by consumers taking clozapine (n = 27) and to elucidate the impact of clozapine on their quality of life. Responses of consumers were contrasted with those of clinicians to highlight any discrepancies between the two groups, thus providing a focus for the improvement of clinical practice. Consumers completed a demographic questionnaire, the Liverpool University Neuroleptic Side‐Effect Rating Scale. They next took part in a semistructured interview, which explored their attitudes to clozapine treatment. File searches provided historical data for antipsychotic use before the prescription of clozapine. Clinicians completed the same instruments and submitted them by mail. Most clinicians overestimated the prevalence and severity of clozapine side‐effects. Consumers reported drooling mouth as the most prevalent and severe side‐effect, whereas clinicians estimated that difficulty staying awake was the most prevalent side‐effect, and the most severe side‐effect was sleeping too much. Clinicians and consumers agreed that clozapine lifts mood. Only 19% of consumers were unhappy about blood tests, whereas 52% of clinicians estimated that consumers were unhappy about blood tests. This study suggests that despite significant side‐effects and regular blood tests, most stable consumers taking clozapine were happier and more satisfied with their treatment than many of their clinicians believed they were. The study also highlights the need for clinicians to ask consumers about the different side‐effects they may be experiencing, so they can provide clinical support to improve their quality of life.
Implementing clinical supervision: Part 1: Laying the ground work
Authors: Lynch Lisa , Happell Brenda
Published: September 2010

ABSTRACT:  Australia, like other countries, is experiencing a crisis in the recruitment and retention of nurses. Clinical supervision has been suggested as a potential strategy to enhance retention. However, there is a paucity of literature regarding the successful implementation of clinical supervision. The aim of this study is to explore and evaluate ways of implementing clinical supervision as undertaken in a rural health‐care organization in Victoria. Qualitative methodology was used including a documentation audit and individual interviews with the staff responsible for implementation. The findings demonstrate that the successful implementation had occurred in five interrelated stages. This paper, one in a series of three, focuses on the preimplementation phase leading up to initial implementation. The main themes identified during these stages were: organizational culture, exploring the possibilities, leadership and education and training which will be examined. These issues were essential in laying the foundation for the systematic introduction of clinical supervision.
Implementation of clinical supervision in action: Part 3: The development of a model
Authors: Lynch Lisa , Happell Brenda
Published: September 2010

ABSTRACT:  Implementation has been observed to be crucial to the successful introduction of clinical supervision. Despite its importance, there is limited literature which articulates principles or process to guide it. The first and second parts of this three‐part paper present findings of a qualitative exploration of the implementation of clinical supervision in a rural mental health service. The findings were discussed in light of the Driscoll model of implementation. While this model provided a valuable tool to interpret some aspects of the findings, its focus was primarily on the preimplementation stage, particularly in terms of assessing the workplace culture and the recognition of the pushing and resisting forces in relation to clinical supervision. This paper presents a new model of implementation with interrelated and dynamic stages. The model was developed in a rural mental health service context. An overview of this research‐based model is presented in this paper.