bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Replication-independent core histone dynamics at transcriptionally active loci in vivo
Authors: Thiriet Christophe , Hayes Jeffrey J.
Published: March 2005

We used a novel labeling technique in the naturally synchronous organism Physarum polycephalum to examine the fate of core histones in G2 phase. We find rapid exchange of H2A/H2B dimers with free pools that is greatly diminished by treatment of the cells with α-amanitin. This exchange is enhanced in pol II-coding sequences compared with extragenic regions or inactive loci. In contrast, H3/H4 tetramers exhibit far lower levels of exchange in the pol II-transcribed genes tested, suggesting that tetramer exchange occurs via a distinct mechanism. However, we find that transcribed regions of the ribosomal RNA gene loci exhibit rapid exchange of H3/H4 tetramers. Thus, our data show that the majority of the pol II transcription-dependent histone exchange is due to elongation in vivo rather than promoter remodeling or other pol II-dependent alterations in promoter structure and, in contrast to pol I, pol II transcription through nucleosomes in vivo causes facile exchange of both H2A/H2B dimers while allowing conservation of epigenetic “marks” and other post-translational modifications on H3 and H4.
p21 loss compromises the relative quiescence of forebrain stem cell proliferation leading to exhaustion of their proliferation capacity
Authors: Kippin Tod E. , Martens David J. , van der Kooy Derek
Published: March 2005

Adult stem cells in various tissues are relatively quiescent. The cell cycle inhibitor p21cip1/waf1 (p21) has been shown to be important for maintaining hematopoietic stem cell quiescence and self-renewal. We examined the role of p21 in the regulation of adult mammalian forebrain neural stem cells (NSCs). We found that p21-/- mice between post-natal age 60-240 d have more NSCs than wild-type (+/+) controls due to higher proliferation rates of p21-/- NSCs. Thereafter, NSCs in p21-/- mice decline and are reduced in number at 16 mo relative to p21+/+ mice. Similarly, both p21-/- and p21+/+ NSCs display self-renewal in vitro; however, p21-/- NSCs display limited in vitro self-renewal (surviving a few passages, then exhausting). Thus, p21 contributes to adult NSC relative quiescence, which we propose is necessary for the life-long maintenance of NSC self-renewal because NSCs may be limited to a finite number of divisions.
Structural analysis of cell membrane complex of a hair fibre by micro-beam X-ray diffraction
Authors: Ohta Noboru , Oka Toshihiko , Inoue Katsuaki , Yagi Naoto , Kato Satoru , Hatta Ichiro
Published: March 2005

The cell membrane complex in the cuticle of a human hair fibre or a rat whisker is composed of three layers, that is, β, δ and β layers. The X-ray diffraction technique is a powerful tool to investigate the pathway of aqueous molecules and ions across the cuticle. Small-angle scattering experiments using a micro X-ray beam, which can be applied to a cuticle of 5 µm thickness, provide the structural information on the cell membrane complex without interference from other structures. Taking into account the variation of thickness in the δ and β layers, the overall features of the diffraction profile in a small-angle region can be explained satisfactorily. The method makes it possible to analyse the structure of β, δ and β layers without assuming an ambiguous background in the diffraction profile, and was used for the analysis of a human hair fibre and a rat whisker. In a rat whisker, the X-ray diffraction was stronger and the variation in the layer thickness smaller than in a human hair fibre. This may be due to the fact that the rat whisker had not been washed with soap or cosmetically treated, whereas the variation may depend on the lipids or the proteins that each species naturally has. It is proposed that the method represents convenient tool for quantitative analysis to estimate the thickness of δ and β layers in the cell membrane complex.
Determination of crystal orientation by an area-detector image for surface X-ray diffraction
Authors: Yashiro Wataru , Kusano Shuji , Miki Kazushi
Published: March 2005

A new method of calculating the crystal orientation matrix (Umatrix) of a specified sample using two-dimensional X-ray diffraction spots that are recorded on an area detector is presented. In this way, theUmatrix is calculated using at least three two-dimensional diffraction spots of known two-dimensional indices, which provide the projection of the crystal truncation rod onto the detector. The method, in the case of surface X-ray diffraction measurements with an area detector, enables easier and faster sample alignment than the conventional method to determine theUmatrix.
Improved quantitative CBED structure-factor measurement by refinement of nonlinear geometric distortion corrections
Authors: Nakashima Philip N. H.
Published: March 2005

A new method that accounts for small but significant geometric distortions in quantitative convergent beam electron diffraction (QCBED) is briefly introduced. A summary of preliminary results obtained with this method shows an average three- to fourfold improvement in structure-factor measurement precision by QCBED. In the present work this method is applied to α-\rm Al_{2}O_{3}, a benchmark compound for charge density studies. Experimental uncertainty is reduced to a level three times smaller than differences between density functional theory and periodic Hartree–Fock calculated structure factors.
Full-profile refinement by derivative difference minimization. Erratum
Authors: Solovyov Leonid A.
Published: March 2005

An equation in the paper by Solovyov [J. Appl. Cryst.(2004),37, 743–749], is corrected.
Apparatus for crystal growth
Authors: Cabric B. , Pavlovic T.
Published: March 2005

The design of an apparatus based on Bridgman's method, enabling visualization of the growth process and regulation of the crystallization rate, for obtaining single crystals from a melt in a school laboratory is presented. Conditions for obtaining single crystals of several substances are given.
Configuration management in the aerospace industry: a review of industry practice
Authors: Burgess T.F. , McKee D. , Kidd C.
Published: March 2005

Purpose

Addresses the research question “how is the discipline of configuration management (CM) practised in the European Aerospace industry?”

Design/methodology/approach

Uses a mixed method approach with a questionnaire survey followed by in‐depth interviews.

Findings

CM discipline relies on fragmented and diverse processes and its organisational role and contribution are undervalued. Remedying present piecemeal deployment of information technology holds out substantial opportunity for improvement.

Research limitations/implications

This exploratory research focusses on a specific industry and relies mainly on descriptive statistics. Future research could examine other industries or carry out explanatory research on CM systems in aerospace.

Practical implications

Substantial scope for business benefits exists if information technology and people are mobilised to improve CM. The need for effective CM systems in organisations will grow as social and environmental responsibilities increase.

Originality/value

This exploratory study illuminates current practices in aerospace and establishes a datum for future research studies. The below par performance within aerospace indicates that achieving highly performing CM systems is not as simple as existing literature makes out. The increasing importance placed by society on risk means that achieving highly effective CM systems will become more important; both in aerospace and other risk‐critical industries.
A comparative study of the management styles of marketing managers in Australia and the People's Republic of China
Authors: Poon Patrick S. , Evangelista Felicitas U. , Albaum Gerald
Published: March 2005

Purpose

The objective of this paper is to compare the management style of marketing managers in Australia with the counterparts in the People's Republic of China (PRC).

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the differences in cultural dimensions and context, five hypotheses related to management decision‐making styles were developed and tested by questionnaire survey. Sixty seven valid Australia samples and 104 valid Chinese samples were obtained through mail survey and personal interviews, respectively.

Findings

Results show that PRC managers have significantly higher scores in the five management style dimensions (namely: information utilization, complexity, group decision‐making, risk acceptance and technology orientation) than their Australian counterparts.

Research limitations/implications

The research is limited by the small sample size. The findings may be limited by measurement equivalence issues and further investigation of management style differences across more countries is clearly needed.

Practical implications

The findings of this study provide useful insights into the differences in the management style of marketing managers in the two countries. It is possible to predict management style differences based on a comparison of cultural differences in a systematic way.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the literature in international marketing and management. It is imperative for managers to understand how cultures affect the management style of the managers they interact with as well as their own. The study serves as a guideline for studying other cultures, which is especially relevant for companies that are seeking to expand their strategic alliance operations.
The effects of appreciative inquiry interviews on staff in the UK National Health Service
Authors: Wright Margaret , Baker Alastair
Published: March 2005

Purpose

To obtain preliminary data on the short‐ and medium‐term effects and personal acceptability of appreciative inquiry (AI) in staff development in health care.

Design/methodology/approach

AI is a non‐problem‐solving management approach focusing on developing current successes into the future through reflection at individual and group level. Individual one‐hour interviews were undertaken with nursing staff on a national paediatric liver in‐patient ward. They were asked to recount stories based on their experiences of successful delivery of health care, with active listening, followed by reflection on the process. A total of 32 staff members took part with only two refusals. Data were written and analysed by an open coding method. Follow up was obtained two years later using a written, open question method.

Findings

The process was emotional but well received. Staff described quality in interpersonal interactions, preventing errors and engaging their personal values in their work. No improvement in recruitment or retention was shown but a high level of sickness absence fell significantly during the period of the project. Two years later, significant positive effects were recalled and attributed to the interviews by many respondents. AI appears a cost‐effective way of connecting professionals’ motivation toward quality in their work with strategic intentions.

Research limitations/implications

The interviewer was a medical consultant and ward manager, implying either that the interviews could have worked as a form of managerial supervision or improvements could be a Hawthorne effect. Other unknown influences were likely to be occurring on the ward during the study period.

Practical implications

Short AI interventions on an individual basis can change sickness absence, at least while the interventions are continuing. It is an important tool for staff motivation with the potential for connecting strategic with micro‐operational levels. AI is an approach to NHS management with wide application including appraisal, personal development and mentoring. It can be a positive introduction to reflective practice.

Originality/value

AI is gaining recognition for its value in staff and service development in health care. The paper shows service and personal effects, cost‐effectiveness and illustrates how to use AI for these purposes.
International comparisons of patients’ views on quality of care
Authors: Wilde Larsson Bodil , Larsson Gerry , Wickman Chantereau Marie , Staël von Holstein Karin
Published: March 2005

Purpose

To compare patients’ views on quality of care in different countries using a theory‐based instrument, while at the same time controlling for the following potential confounders: type of care system (private vs public), type of care (kind of health problem), gender, age, and subjective wellbeing.

Design/methodology/approach

Patients capable of communicating in wards (medical and surgical departments) and day surgery departments in England, France, Norway, and Sweden were recruited consecutively, to participate in a programme run by the health‐care company Capio. Ward patients: England (n=1,236), France (n=1,051), Norway (n=226), and Sweden (n=428). Day surgery patients: England (n=887), France (n=544), Norway (n=101), and Sweden (n=742). Average response rate across settings: approximately 75 per cent. Patients evaluated the quality of the care they actually received and the subjective importance they ascribed to different aspects of care. The questionnaire “Quality from the patient's perspective” (QPP) was used (modified short version).

Findings

Cross‐national comparisons were made within each of the two care contexts (wards and day surgery) separately for men and women. Quality of care evaluations were adjusted for age and subjective wellbeing. English and French patients scored significantly higher than Norwegian and Swedish on both kinds of ratings (perceived reality and subjective importance), in both kinds of care contexts, and in both sexes.

Originality/value

Cross‐national comparisons of patients’ views on care can give meaningful guidance for practitioners only if they are context‐specific and if well‐known confounders are controlled for.
Guest editorial: discourse and organizational change
Authors: Grant David , Michelson Grant , Oswick Cliff , Wailes Nick
Published: March 2005

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the contribution that discourse analysis can make to understanding organizational change.

Design/methodology/approach

It identifies five key contributions. Discourse analytic approaches: reveal the important role of discourse in the social construction of organizational change; demonstrate how the meaning attached to organizational change initiatives comes about as a result of a discursive process of negotiation among key actors; show that the discourses of change should be regarded as intertextual; provide a valuable multi‐disciplinary perspective on change; and exhibit a capacity, to generate fresh insights into a wide variety of organizational change related issues.

Findings

To illustrate these contributions the paper examines the five empirical studies included in this special issue. It discusses the potential for future discursive studies of organizational change phenomena and the implications of this for the field of organizational change more generally.

Originality/value

Provides an introduction to the special issue on discourse and organizational change.
Implications of business ethics for quality management
Authors: Fisscher Olaf , Nijhof André
Published: March 2005

Purpose

This article is an attempt to clarify the links between quality management and business ethics in order to show what quality management can learn from insights out of the field of business ethics.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on research in the field of business ethics, methods and processes are explored for implementing quality management within organisations.

Findings

An important result of this study is that only by combining personal care with control of processes is it possible to achieve the highest levels of quality. The implications of these findings are discussed along with future directions for research on quality management.

Practical implications

In total quality management systems, attention is paid to social responsibility as far as the impact on society is recognised and implemented within the company. However, this paper puts forward the necessity for relational responsibility based on personal care as a crucial factor in the relationships between supervisors and employees, between salespeople and customers, et cetera. Therefore, the incorporation of relational responsibility into quality programmes seems an important next step in the development of quality management.

Originality/value

Responsibility in the sense of authority distribution within organisations is a central topic for quality management. This paper contributes to a broader view on responsibility based on moral values, personal care and its impact on stakeholder relationships.
Publication trends and patterns in entrepreneurship
Authors: McElwee Gerard , Atherton Andrew
Published: March 2005

Purpose – This paper considers the models, methodologies, techniques and data utilised in articles published in The International Journal of Entrepreneurship and Innovation over the period 1999‐2003, in an attempt to determine theoretical and methodological trends and themes emerging from within the literature. Design/methodology/approach – The paper considers articles published in the journal from multiple perspectives including: methods of data analysis, epistemological frameworks deployed, dominant academic disciplines and geographical location of the authors. Topic areas and keywords associated with each article are examined in order to identify particular foci for publication and to broadly determine the “topography” of published output. Findings – The broad publication profile was of more quantitative than qualitative papers, with some consideration of policy issues. Research limitations/implications – Analysis is confined to an example of one journal in the field and thus its comparative validity is limited. Practical implications – A very useful account of publication trends in the discipline. The article is of value to academics who are seeking to publish. Indicates the methodological trends that are utilised in the discipline. Originality/value – This is an innovative investigation into publication trends in the discipline.
Genetic analysis of offspring from intra‐ and interspecific crosses of Carassius auratus gibelio by chromosome and RAPD analysis
Authors: Tóth B. , Várkonyi E. , Hidas A. , Edviné Meleg E. , Váradi L.
Published: March 2005

The ploidy of silver crucian carp Carassius auratus gibelio individuals, originating from nine natural habitats of Hungary, was estimated by erythrocyte nucleus area analysis. On the basis of DNA polymorphism, the genetic homogeneity or heterogeneity and the chromosome number of different offspring derived from the crossing of triploid and diploid populations and of two types of silver crucian carp females with other cyprinid males (Cyprinus carpio, Carassius carassius, Carassius auratus and Barbus conchonius) were determined. The results of chromosome and RAPD analysis demonstrated that diploid females could reproduce sexually with silver crucian carp and other cyprinid males and that the offspring of intra‐ and interspecific crosses contained the paternal DNA. Triploid females usually reproduced by gynogenesis and their offspring were clones, however, in very rare cases paternal genes were actually transmitted (i.e. paternal leakage) to the offspring and the progeny were triploid interspecific hybrids. RAPD analysis showed that while the paternal DNA appeared in the offspring, the maternal phenotype was strongly expressed.
Mass‐dependent energetics and survival in Harbour Seal pups
Authors: HARDING K. C. , FUJIWARA M. , AXBERG Y. , HÄRKÖNEN T.
Published: March 2005

Winter survival rate in Harbour Seal pups is significantly correlated with the autumn body mass of pups. Multi‐type mark–recapture statistics were applied to individual re‐sighting histories of branded seals, and survival probability was estimated with weight as a covariate. The probability of surviving to an age of 1 year is only 0·63 for the smallest pups at 17 kg, whereas pups at 32 kg have a survival probability of 0·96.

An energetic model for juvenile Harbour Seals reveals how metabolic rate is related to body mass, skin surface area, blubber thickness and water temperature. There is an increasing thermal stress with decreasing body size of pups. Low winter water temperatures induce a negative energy balance in small pups, which is a probable cause of the observed mass‐dependent survival.

This study explicitly links a physical property of the environment, sea‐water temperature, to energetics and life history. The approach opens possibilities for studying aspects of life‐history evolution, such as optimal weaning weight and pupping time, in marine mammals.
Pushing the edge: extended activity as an alternative to risky body temperatures in a herbivorous teiid lizard (Cnemidophorus murinus: Squamata)
Authors: VITT L. J. , CALDWELL J. P. , SARTORIUS S. S. , E. COOPER W. , BAIRD T. A. , BAIRD T. D. , PÉREZ‐MELLADO VALENTÍN
Published: March 2005

A combination field and laboratory study tested the hypothesis that a herbivorous lizard, Cnemidophorus murinus, extends activity at high body temperatures to digest plant material.

Body temperatures (Tb) of active lizards averaged 37·2 °C and were no higher than those of insect‐eating Cnemidophorus.

Near constant Tb was maintained by behavioural means even though habitat temperatures varied greatly.

Field‐based behavioural data show that C. murinus extend activity by shifting among microhabitats to increase duration of time available at high Tb for digestion.

Laboratory studies revealed large variation in selected temperatures (Tsel), but the overall average was 35·9 °C, which is lower than field Tb.

By carefully selecting microhabitats and extending activity, C. murinus maintains constant high body temperatures to digest plant material without risking potentially lethal overheating.
Self‐pollen on a stigma interferes with outcrossed seed production in a self‐incompatible monoecious plant, Akebia quinata (Lardizabalaceae)
Authors: KAWAGOE T. , SUZUKI N.
Published: March 2005

Akebia quinata Decaisne is a monoecious woody vine. As the plants are self‐incompatible, separation of sex functions between flowers may function to avoid sexual interference rather than to avoid inbreeding depression. To investigate whether self‐pollen on stigmas affects outcrossed seed production in A. quinata, we carried out an artificial pollination experiment in which self‐pollination was conducted either simultaneously with, or 24 h before, cross‐pollination.

Compared with cross‐pollination, fruit set was significantly reduced by prior self‐pollination. Simultaneous self‐ and cross‐pollination also reduced fruit production. Overall, self‐pollen on a stigma reduced seed production by 85% compared with cross‐pollination.

Growth rate of self‐pollen tubes in carpels did not differ from that of cross‐pollen tubes, and self‐pollen tubes could reach ovules. This indicates that A. quinata has late‐acting self‐incompatibility, which may cause sexual interference if self‐pollination occurs.

These results support the idea that monoecy in A. quinata functions to avoid sexual interference, which imposes a fitness cost, at least on female function.
Keratinocyte‐specific modulation of type VII collagen gene expression by pro‐inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor‐α and interleukin‐1β)
Authors: Takeda Hitoshi , Kon Atsushi , Ito Noriko , Sawamura Daisuke , Takagaki Keiichi , Hashimoto Isao , Hanada Katsumi
Published: March 2005

Abstract:  Previous studies have shown that pro‐inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α and interleukin (IL)‐1β up‐regulate type VII collagen gene (COL7A1) expression in cultured dermal fibroblasts. The present study was designed to investigate the effects of TNF‐α and IL‐1β on COL7A1 expression in epidermal keratinocytes. We demonstrated that both TNF‐α and IL‐1β reduced COL7A1 expression in epidermal keratinocytes in an additive manner, whereas they increased COL7A1 expression in dermal fibroblasts. Thus, regulation of COL7A1 by pro‐inflammatory cytokines is cell type specific. In particular, the inhibitory effects of TNF‐α and IL‐1β occurred, at least in part, at the transcriptional level. Finally, we demonstrated that TNF‐α and IL‐1β enhanced the TGF‐β‐mediated up‐regulation of COL7A1 expression in HaCaT keratinocytes, suggesting that the combination of TGF‐β and TNF‐α or IL‐1β induces a signaling pathway that is completely different from that induced by either pro‐inflammatory cytokine alone.
An evolutionary tolerance model explaining spatial patterns in species richness under environmental gradients and geometric constraints
Authors: Rangel Thiago Fernando L. V. B. , Diniz‐Filho José Alexandre F.
Published: March 2005

In this study, we developed a simulation model based on the ecological and evolutionary dynamics of geographical ranges, to understand the role of species’ environmental tolerances and the strength of the environmental gradient in determining spatial patterns in species richness. Using an one‐dimensional space, we present the model and dissect its parameters. Also, we test the ability of the model to simulate richness in complex two‐dimensional domains and to fit real patterns in species richness, using South American Tyrannidae as an example. We found that a mid‐spatial peak in species richness arises spontaneously under conditions of high environmental tolerances and/or a weak environmental gradient, since this condition causes wide species’ geographic ranges, which are constrained by domain's boundary and tend to overlap in the middle. Our model was also a good predictor of real patterns in species richness, especially under conditions of high environmental strength and small species’ tolerance. We conclude that this kind of spatial simulation models based on species’ physiological tolerance may be an important tool to understand the evolutionary dynamics of species’ geographic ranges and in spatial patterns of species richness.
Landscape‐dependent distribution of northern forest birds in winter
Authors: Turcotte Yves , Desrochers André
Published: March 2005

We evaluated the effects of landscape structure, along a broad gradient of deforestation (forest cover 8–88%, 500‐m radius), on the spatial distribution of forest birds exposed to winter climatic conditions, in Quebec, Canada. Concurrently, we conducted an experiment to determine if these effects would persist if an unlimited source of energy, provided by food‐supplementation, became available. We analyzed these effects at the population level, using count data of black‐capped chickadees Poecile atricapillus, but also at the community level, referring to species richness. In one of the two years of the study, before food‐supplementation began (November), “forest integrity” (a composite of forest cover and edge density) was positively associated with chickadee abundance and species richness. Each year, forest integrity was also positively associated with chickadee abundance and species richness in landscapes that were supplemented (December–February). However, in control landscapes, during the food‐supplementation period, chickadee abundance and species richness tended to decrease with an increase in forest integrity. We argue that the more forested control landscapes facilitated winter emigration of juveniles and transient birds. Conversely, our results further suggest that, in the highly deforested and fragmented control landscapes, birds became “gap‐locked” when rigorous winter climatic conditions exacerbated already existing movement constraints.
A framework for genetic service provision for haemophilia and other inherited bleeding disorders
Authors: Ludlam C. A. , Pasi K. J. , Bolton‐Maggs P. , Collins P. W. , Cumming A. M. , Dolan G. , Fryer A. , Harrington C. , Hill F. G. H. , Peake I. R. , Perry D. J. , Skirton H. , Smith M. ,   UK Haemophilia Centre Doctors’ Organisation
Published: March 2005

Summary.  This framework document offers guidance to patients, doctors, nurses, laboratory scientists, funders and hospitals on the provision of clinical and laboratory genetic services for haemophilia. With recent advances in molecular laboratory techniques it is now possible to give the vast majority of individual patients and family members very reliable genetic information. To enable these genetic data to be used for both the optimal treatment of patients with inherited bleeding disorders and for appropriate reproductive decisions in carriers, there needs to be a clear and robust framework for systematically acquiring the necessary clinical, personal, family and laboratory information upon which decisions can be made. This document provides guidance on the range and standards of clinical and laboratory genetic services which should be offered to patients and their families. Included are arrangements for genetic counselling and testing (including consent and confidentially issues), management of early pregnancy, standards for laboratory genetic services, as well as advice on data storage, security and retrieval.
Utility of a (GT)n dinucleotide repeat in intron 1 of the factor 8 gene for haemophilia A carrier diagnosis
Authors: Tizzano E. , Venceslá A. , Cornet M. , Baena M. , Baiget M.
Published: March 2005

Summary.  We report the usefulness of a dinucleotide GT repeat in intron 1 of the factor 8 gene in carrier diagnosis of haemophilia A (HA). We analyzed 47 women from HA families in which the mutation was not identified in the index case and in which the common intragenic polymorphic markers were uninformative. The intron 1 GT repeat was useful to identify the X chromosome with the mutation in 19 of them. The analysis of this easily detectable marker in conjunction with other current markers may facilitate X chromosome identification in a large proportion of HA families.
Views on the ground: teaching and clinical assessors’ views on vocational training for healthcare assistants in Ireland
Authors: McKenna Hugh P , Keeney Sinead , Hasson Felicity
Published: March 2005

Aim and objectives.  This paper reports the views of teaching staff and clinical assessors on their experience of programme delivery and assessment.

Background.  In 2001, the Irish Department of Health and Children developed a vocational training programme for healthcare assistants. This programme was piloted nationally across 14 hospital and community sites. Teaching staff and clinical assessors at each site delivered the programme.

Method.  One‐to‐one semi‐structured interviews were undertaken with 16 clinical staff and 26 teaching staff. With consent, all interviews were tape‐recorded, from which the transcripts were subject to content analysis.

Results.  A lack of experience and preparation among teaching staff and clinical assessors was evident. The staff's commitment to their role on the programme while maintaining their normal duties caused frustration and uncertainty. Not withstanding, the value of the programme in terms of increased motivation, satisfaction and knowledge of healthcare assistants and the impact on care delivery, was recognized by respondents.

Conclusions.  This programme represents the provision of a national standard training programme for healthcare assistants. It provides an insight into the delivery of such a programme and the educational and training needs of healthcare assistants through the views of staff that taught and assessed on it.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Findings suggest that the development and implementation of a national training programme for healthcare assistants is achievable.
Towards multidisciplinary assessment of older people: exploring the change process
Authors: Ross Fiona , O'Tuathail Claire , Stubberfield Debbie
Published: March 2005

Aims and objectives.  This paper discusses the process of change that took place in an intervention study of standardized multidisciplinary assessment guidelines implemented in a female ward for older people in a District General Hospital in South London. This study was one of nine implementation projects in the South Thames Evidence‐Based Practice Project.

Background.  The relationship between the worlds of research and healthcare practice is uneasy and contested and, as such, is a breeding ground for challenging questions about how evidence can be used to foment change in clinical practice. Recent literature on change highlights the importance of understanding complexity, which informed our approach and analysis.

Methods.  A multifaceted approach to change that comprised evidence‐based guidelines, leadership (project leader) and change management was evaluated before and after the implementation by telephone interviews with patients, a postal survey of community staff and interviews with ward staff. A diagnostic analysis of current assessment practice informed the change process. The project leader collected data on adherence.

Results.  This paper draws on descriptive and qualitative data and addresses the links between contextual issues and the processes and pathways of change, informed by theoretical ideas from the change literature. Key themes emerged: working through others and across boundaries, managing uncertainty and unanticipated challenges. Adherence of ward staff to using the multidisciplinary assessment guidelines was high, with evidence of some dissemination to community staff at follow‐up. Three years after the project finished the multidisciplinary assessment is still part of routine clinical practice.

Conclusions.  The analysis contributes to understanding about the nursing leadership of change within an interprofessional arena of practice. It highlights the importance of understanding the context in relation to the impact and sustainability of change and thus the utility of conducting a diagnostic analysis in the early stages of implementation. This has implications for developing approaches to change in nursing and interprofessional practice in other settings.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Using research to change practice needs clinical leaders who are supported by the organization and have the skills to implement research evidence, manage uncertainty and build trust with a range of other professionals.
Unity from diversity: the evidential use of anecdotal reports of adverse drug reactions and interactions
Authors: Aronson Jeffrey K.
Published: March 2005

Anecdotal case reports contribute about one‐third of the published literature on adverse drug reactions and interactions, but are regarded as providing poor‐quality evidence. However, they can occasionally provide proof of cause and effect, and there are many other reasons for publishing them. Because an anecdote is a narrative, narratological paradigms from literature, art, and music can show how we can make evidential use of anecdotes. Useful paradigms are the dramatic unities (of time, place, and action), comprehensive catalogues, and pattern formations. Here I give examples of each of these types of paradigm and show how they can be used to interpret anecdotes about adverse drug reactions and interactions. The dramatic unities show how a proper classification of adverse drug reactions can be achieved, according to dose‐relation, time‐course, and susceptibility factors; use of this classification should improve the evidential use of anecdotal reports. A high background incidence of the effect (the medical equivalent of subplots, which violate the unity of action) makes it more difficult to detect adverse drug effects using anecdotal reports. To make best evidential use of the corpus of anecdotal reports of adverse drug reactions, comprehensiveness is important: each suspected adverse reaction should be reported in detail and reactions should be reported in sufficient numbers for proper classification and for patterns to be recognized. One form of pattern recognition, teleoanalysis of data, should, when possible, include not only randomized controlled trials and observational studies, but also case series and anecdotal reports.
In planta measurements of oxidative bursts elicited by avirulent and virulent bacterial pathogens suggests that H2O2 is insufficient to elicit cell death in tobacco
Authors: MUR LUIS A. J. , KENTON PAUL , DRAPER JOHN
Published: March 2005

A rapid and localized programmed cell death – the hypersensitive response (HR) – is a widely utilized plant resistance mechanism against pathogens. Studies have implicated H2O2 generation as a key elicitory mechanism in the HR. The causal relationship between the kinetics of the in planta oxidative burst, the HR and certain defence gene expression was examined. H2O2 generation following challenge with avirulent strains of Pseudomonas syringae pv. (P. s. pv.) syringae occurred in two phases. The effects of ROS generation were investigated using the H2O2‐responsive transgene AoPR10‐GUS, the dually responsive (H2O2 and salicylic acid) PR1a‐GUS as well as measures of cell death. Co‐application of catalase with P. s. pv. syringae into tobacco leaf panels suppressed AoPR10‐ and PR1a‐GUS expression and cell death. Conversely, varying H2O2 generation with glucose: glucose oxidase influenced both defence gene expression and cell death. AoPR10‐GUS proved to be primarily responsive to apoplastic not intracellular oxidative stress, suggesting that the apoplasm was a distinctive source of oxidative signals. A biphasic oxidative burst was also observed with virulent P. s. pv. tabaci, which, although delayed compared to that observed during HR, persisted at equivalent levels for a longer period. Taking all these data together we suggest that either (1) additional factors to the apoplastic oxidative burst are required to explain the rapid kinetics of defence signalling and cell death associated with the HR or (2) P. s. pv. tabaci successfully suppresses the effects of H2O2 generation by an unknown mechanism.
Energy evaluation of extruded compound foods for dogs by near‐infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Castrillo C. , Baucells M. , Vicente F. , Muñoz F. , Andueza D.
Published: March 2005

Near‐infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) was used to predict the chemical composition, apparent digestibility and digestible nutrients and energy content of commercial extruded compound foods for dogs. Fifty‐six foods of known chemical composition and in vivo apparent digestibility were analysed overall and 51 foods were used to predict gross energy digestibility and digestible energy content. Modified partial least square calibration models were developed for organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE), crude fibre (CF), nitrogen free extracts (NFE) and gross energy (GE) content, the apparent digestibility (OMD, CPD, EED, NFED and GED) and the digestible nutrient and energy content (DOM, DCP, DEE, DNFE and DE) of foods. The calibration equations obtained were evaluated by the standard error and the determination coefficient of cross‐validation. The cross‐validation coefficients of determination (R) were 0.61, 0.99, 0.91, 0.96, 0.94 and 0.92 for OM, CP, EE, CF, NFE and GE, the corresponding standard error of cross‐validation (SECV) being 5.80, 3.51, 13.35, 3.64 and 16.95 g/kg dry matter (DM) and 0.29 MJ/kg DM respectively. The prediction of apparent digestibility was slightly less accurate, but NIRS prediction of digestible nutrient (g/kg DM) and DE (MJ/kg DM) gave satisfactory results, with high R (0.93, 0.97, 0.93, 0.83 and 0.93 for DOM, DCP, DEE, DNFE and DE respectively) and relatively low SECV (11.55, 6.85, 12.14 and 22.98 g/kg DM and 0.47 MJ/kg DM). It is concluded that the precision of NIRS in predicting the energy value of compound extruded foods for dogs is similar or better than by proximate analysis, as well as being faster and more accurate.
Investigations in pet birds (Agapornis spp.) fed different vitamin K3 contents in the diet
Authors: Wolf P. , Hupfeld C. , Dorrestein G. , Kamphues J.
Published: March 2005

In the past many discussions about possible toxic effects of vitamin K3 fed to pet birds arose frequently, and were published also in magazines for pet bird fanciers, in the internet as well as in veterinary journals. Therefore, the aim of this study was an evaluation of effects of different dosages of vitamin K3 on birds’ health when given orally for a longer period. These investigations were carried out with adult lovebirds (Agapornis spp.) fed a pelleted diet with different levels of vitamin K3 (menadione–sodium–bisulphite): control group 0 mg, group V1 20 mg and group V2 200 mg/kg diet dry matter. General condition and well being of the lovebirds were checked daily. Body weight gains as well as feed and water intakes were examined once a week. Every 2‐month blood samples of each lovebird were collected and analysed. After a period of 6 and 10 months, respectively, four birds of each group were necropsied in order to carry out a pathological and histological examination. In general, the behaviour, feed and water intakes as well as quality of excreta were not influenced by ingestion of diets with different levels of vitamin K3. All variations were in physiological ranges. Individuals of all groups showed positive body weight gains and an active reproduction status. However, the best body mass (BM) development and egg laying activity could be observed in lovebirds of group V2 with the highest vitamin K3 supplementation. In the haemotogram some time‐depending variations could be observed; however, a systematic influence of vitamin K3 could not be determined in any group or at any time. All analysed biochemical values in plasma and the activities of enzymes were within normal ranges. Only few birds of every group showed aberrant histological findings, but none of these could be related to the vitamin K3 intake. Moreover, no forced accumulation of vitamin K3 in the liver depending on vitamin K3 intake was found. This result suggests a rapid metabolism of the absorbed vitamin K3. All in all, the application of pelleted diets with addition of 20 or 200 mg vitamin K3/kg diet over a period of several months did not affect pet birds’ health. Given these results, any doubts about the compatibility of usual doses of vitamin K3 in diets for lovebirds must be considered as absolutely groundless.
Development of a semiochemical‐based trapping method for the New Guinea sugarcane weevil, Rhabdoscelus obscurus in Guam
Authors: Reddy G. V. P. , Cruz Z. T. , Bamba J. , Muniappan R.
Published: March 2005

Abstract:  Aggregation pheromone of the Australian population of New Guinea sugarcane weevil, Rhabdoscelus obscurus (Boisduval), in conjunction with other semiochemicals, was used to develop an efficient trapping method for the weevil population in Guam. In a field experiment at Yigo, plastic bucket traps baited with the lure of the Australian R. obscurus population in combination with ethyl acetate and cut sugarcane captured significantly more weevils than traps baited with pheromone + ethyl acetate, pheromone + sugarcane or individual lure components alone. Traps baited with various semiochemical‐based lures and treated with insecticide captured significantly greater numbers of weevils than those not treated with insecticide. Traps baited with cut sugarcane caught significantly more weevils than those without sugarcane. Semiochemical‐based trapping in weevil management has potential either in mass trapping or as part of an integrated pest management (IPM) programme. Based on the present findings, a future line of work for the control of this weevil is proposed.
Aphidophagous insect communities in tree crowns of the neophyte Douglas‐fir [Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco] and Norway spruce (Picea abies L.)
Authors: Goßner M. , Gruppe A. , Simon U.
Published: March 2005

Abstract:  Number of specimens and species as well as structure of aphidophagous communities in tree crowns of Douglas‐fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) and Norway spruce (Picea abies) were studied in different forest stand types (Douglas‐fir‐, spruce‐ and beech‐dominated) in southern Germany in the year 2000, using flight‐interception traps. Total as well as average numbers of specimens and species of aphid predators were higher on Douglas‐fir in all stand types. This was particularly evident in Douglas‐fir‐dominated stand type. The aphidophagous community revealed a low β‐diversity on spruce but a high β‐diversity on Douglas‐fir between stand types. Both species, with a broad and narrow ecological niche, respectively, were responsible for a community on Douglas‐fir conspicuous different from that on spruce.
Parasitoids of Apiomyia bergenstammi (Wachtl) (Dipt., Cecidomyiidae), a new pest on pears, in Hatay province, Turkey
Authors: Doganlar M. , Yigit A.
Published: March 2005

Abstract:  Studies were carried out on the galls formed by Apiomyia bergenstammi (Wa.) on buds and/or twigs of pear trees, in Yayladagi, Senköy, and Belen, Hatay province, Turkey in 2003. The pest was introduced into Hatay province at least 5 years ago. It produces one generation a year and hibernates as larvae in the galls. In Yayladagi, Senköy and Belen, 20, 18 and 5%, respectively, of buds/twigs of pear trees were attacked by A. bergenstammi. Each of the galls contained on average 9.6 ± 0.5 (range: 6–11) larval chambers. Adults were reared from galls collected at the beginning of spring, viz. A. bergenstammi emerged in the first half of April 2003, Oxyglypta rugosa Ruschka (Hym., Pteromalidae) and Torymus apiomyiae Boucek & Mihajlovic (Hym., Torymidae) (a new record for Turkey) emerged in the second half of April. Other chambers contained unemerged adults of Platygaster sp. (Hym., Platygasteridae). Natural parasitism rates obtained by dissecting 10 galls from Yayladagi and Senkoy in 2003 were: 26.6 ± 4.4% by O. rugosa and 10.0 ± 3.2% by Platygaster sp. The parasitism rate by T. apiomyiae was 16.6% as determined from the galls collected from Belen.
Diapause induction and clock mechanism in the pine caterpillar Dendrolimus tabulaeformis (Lep., Lasiocampidae)
Authors: Han R. , Xue F. , He Z. , Ge F.
Published: March 2005

Abstract:  Dendrolimus tabulaeformis overwinters as third to fourth instar larvae at short days in autumn. Using 24‐h light–dark cycles, the photoperiodic response curves were similar at 24 and 28°C. The critical night length was 9 h 20 min at 24°C and 9 h 50 min at 28°C. Under non‐24 h light–dark cycles, duration of scotophase proved crucial in the determination of diapause. In night interruption experiments using 24‐h light–dark cycle, a 1‐h light pulse falling 8 h in the darkness strongly averted diapause in comparison with other light pulses. Nanda–Hamner experiments showed two weak troughs of diapause inhibition, suggesting the possible involvement of the circadian system. However, Bünsow experiments did not support the evidence of the involvement of circadian oscillatory system in photoperiodic time measurement. These results suggest that photoperiodic time measurement in this moth shows a non‐oscillatory ‘hourglass‐like’ response model or a rapidly damping oscillator model.
First Report of Bacterial Leaf Spot (Pseudomonas syringae pv. coriandricola) of Coriander in Spain
Authors: Cazorla F. M. , Vázquez M. A. , Rosales J. , Arrebola E. , Navarro J. , Pérez‐García A. , De Vicente A.
Published: March 2005

Bacterial leaf spot symptoms of coriander were first observed in January 2003 in three coriander fields in the valley region of the Axarquía (Málaga, Spain), showing a very high incidence. Pseudomonas syringae pv. coriandricola was consistently isolated from diseased plants, identified and its pathogenicity on coriander could be proved. The effective inoculum dose (ED50) of the isolated strains was estimated and it was very similar to those displayed by the P. syringae pv. coriandricola reference strains used as control. This is the first report of bacterial leaf spot on coriander in Spain.