bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A workflow to increase the detection rate of proteins from unsequenced organisms in high‐throughput proteomics experiments
Authors: Grossmann Jonas , Fischer Bernd , Baerenfaller Katja , Owiti Judith , Buhmann Joachim M. , Gruissem Wilhelm , Baginsky Sacha
Published: November 2007

We present and evaluate a strategy for the mass spectrometric identification of proteins from organisms for which no genome sequence information is available that incorporates cross‐species information from sequenced organisms. The presented method combines spectrum quality scoring, de novo sequencing and error tolerant BLAST searches and is designed to decrease input data complexity. Spectral quality scoring reduces the number of investigated mass spectra without a loss of information. Stringent quality‐based selection and the combination of different de novo sequencing methods substantially increase the catalog of significant peptide alignments. The de novo sequences passing a reliability filter are subsequently submitted to error tolerant BLAST searches and MS‐BLAST hits are validated by a sampling technique. With the described workflow, we identified up to 20% more groups of homologous proteins in proteome analyses with organisms whose genome is not sequenced than by state‐of‐the‐art database searches in an Arabidopsis thaliana database. We consider the novel data analysis workflow an excellent screening method to identify those proteins that evade detection in proteomics experiments as a result of database constraints.
A phase 2 study of aztreonam lysine for inhalation to treat patients with cystic fibrosis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection
Authors: Retsch‐Bogart George Z. , Burns Jane L. , Otto Kelly L. , Liou Theodore G. , McCoy Karen , Oermann Christopher , Gibson Ronald L. ,   AZLI Phase II Study Group
Published: November 2007

Background

Aztreonam lysine for inhalation (AZLI) is being developed for treatment of CF patients with Pseudomonas aeruginosa airway infection.

Methods

This double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled Phase 2 study evaluated the safety, tolerability and efficacy of 75 and 225 mg AZLI administered BID for 14 days using the eFlow® Electronic Nebulizer (Pari Innovative Manufacturers, Inc., Midlothian, VA). Patients were 13 years and older with FEV1 ≥ 40% predicted, chronic P. aeruginosa infection, and had used no anti‐pseudomonal antibiotics for 56 days.

Results

Of 131 patients screened, 105 received AZLI or placebo. Mean age was 26 years and mean FEV1 percent predicted was 77% at baseline. There was a statistically significant reduction, compared to placebo, in P. aeruginosa CFU density in each AZLI group at Days 7 and 14 (P < 0.001). The planned primary analysis, percent change in FEV1 at Day 14, demonstrated no statistically significant difference. Post hoc analysis demonstrated significant increase in FEV1 at Day 7 for the subset of patients with baseline FEV1 < 75% predicted in the 225 mg AZLI group. Bronchodilator use was associated with greater improvement in FEV1, as well as greater reduction in P. aeruginosa bacterial density and higher plasma aztreonam concentrations in the 225 mg AZLI group. Adverse events were similar between placebo and AZLI although there was a trend toward increased respiratory symptoms in the 225 mg AZLI group.

Conclusion

These data support the further development of AZLI and provide information for the design of subsequent studies. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2008; 43:47–58. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The problem with generic scrips for m/r strong opioids
Authors: Dickman Andrew , Gibbs Margaret
Published: November 2007

The authors explain why modified‐release strong opioids should be prescribed by brand name, and how generic prescribing can actually lead to an increase in costs. Copyright © 2007 Wiley Interface Ltd
Elimination and exchange of trifluoroacetate counter‐ion from cationic peptides: a critical evaluation of different approaches
Authors: Roux Stéphane , Zékri Elisabeth , Rousseau Bernard , Paternostre Maïté , Cintrat Jean‐Christophe , Fay Nicolas
Published: November 2007

Most synthesized peptides are nowadays produced using solid‐phase procedures. Due to cleavage and purification conditions, they are mainly obtained in the presence of trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) and, for cationic peptides, as trifluoroacetate (TF‐acetate) salts. However, TF‐acetate interferes with physicochemical characterizations using infrared spectroscopy and might significantly affect the in vivo studies. Thus, TF‐acetate exchange by another counter‐ion is often required. Up to now, the classical procedure has consisted of freeze‐drying the peptide several times in the presence of an excess of a stronger acid than TFA (pKa ∼0): generally HCl (pKa = − 7). This approach means that working at pH < 1 can induce peptide degradation. We therefore tested three different approaches to exchange the tightly bound TF‐acetate counter‐ion from the dicationic octapeptide lanreotide: (i) reverse‐phase HPLC, (ii) ion‐exchange resin, and (iii) deprotonation/reprotonation cycle of the amino groups. The first two approaches allow the partial to almost complete exchange of the TF‐acetate counter‐ion by another ion from an acid weaker than TFA, such as acetic acid (pKa = 4.5), and the third requires a basic solution that permits the complete removal of TF‐acetate counter‐ion. The efficiency of these three procedures was tested and compared by using different analytical techniques such as 19F‐NMR, 1H‐NMR and attenuated total reflectance Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (ATR FT‐IR). We also show that ATR‐IR can be used to monitor the TFA removal. The counter‐ion exchange procedures described in this study are easy to carry out, fast, harmless and reproducible. Moreover, two of them offer the very interesting possibility of exchanging the initial TF‐acetate by any other counter‐ion. Copyright © 2007 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Distance dependence of long‐range electron transfer through helical peptides
Authors: Kai Minako , Takeda Kazuki , Morita Tomoyuki , Kimura Shunsaku
Published: November 2007

Helical peptides of 8mer, 16mer, and 24mer carrying a disulfide group at the N‐terminal and a ferrocene moiety at the C‐terminal were synthesized, and they were self‐assembled on gold by a sulfur–gold linkage. Infrared reflection–absorption spectroscopy and ellipsometry confirmed that they formed a monolayer with upright orientation. Cyclic voltammetry showed that the electron transfer from the ferrocene moiety to gold occurred even with the longest 24mer peptide. Chronoamperometry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy were carried out to determine the standard electron transfer rate constants. It was found that the dependence of the electron‐transfer rates on the distance was significantly weak with the extension of the chain from 16mer to 24mer (decay constant β = 0.02–0.04). This dependence on distance cannot be explained by an electron tunneling mechanism even if increased hydrogen‐bonding cooperativity or molecular dynamics is considered. It is thus concluded that this long‐range electron transfer is operated by an electron hopping mechanism. Copyright © 2007 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Surface characterization of plasma‐modified polyethylene by contact angle experiments and ATR‐FTIR spectroscopy
Authors: De Geyter N. , Morent R. , Leys C.
Published: November 2007

Polymers such as polyethylene (PE) have a low surface free energy and therefore often require a modification of their surface properties before any use. Nonthermal plasma treatment is a convenient and environmentally friendly way to obtain these modifications by introducing new chemical groups at the surface without affecting the bulk properties. Therefore, in this article, a PE film is treated with a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) operating in air at medium pressure (5.0 kPa). The surface properties of the plasma‐treated PE films are characterized using contact angle measurements, surface free energy calculations and ATR‐FTIR spectroscopy. The polymer films show a remarkable increase in surface free energy after plasma treatment. ATR‐FTIR spectroscopy of the plasma‐treated PE films reveals that plasma treatment introduces oxygen‐containing functionalities, such as ketones, aldehydes, alcohols and carboxylic acids on the PE surface leading to the increased surface free energy. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Joint modelling of repeated measurements and time‐to‐event outcomes: The fourth Armitage lecture
Authors: Diggle Peter J. , Sousa Inês , Chetwynd Amanda G.
Published: November 2007

In many longitudinal studies, the outcomes recorded on each subject include both a sequence of repeated measurements at pre‐specified times and the time at which an event of particular interest occurs: for example, death, recurrence of symptoms or drop out from the study. The event time for each subject may be recorded exactly, interval censored or right censored. The term joint modelling refers to the statistical analysis of the resulting data while taking account of any association between the repeated measurement and time‐to‐event outcomes. In this paper, we first discuss different approaches to joint modelling and argue that the analysis strategy should depend on the scientific focus of the study. We then describe in detail a particularly simple, fully parametric approach. Finally, we use this approach to re‐analyse data from a clinical trial of drug therapies for schizophrenic patients, in which the event time is an interval‐censored or right‐censored time to withdrawal from the study due to adverse side effects. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Two‐dimensional benchmark solution for buckling and vibration of simply supported hybrid piezoelectric angle‐ply flat panels
Authors: Dumir P.C. , Kapuria S. , Kumari P. , Nath J.K.
Published: November 2007

A benchmark 2D piezothermoelasticity exact solution is presented, based on state space approach for buckling and free vibration response of simply supported laminated hybrid angle‐ply panels in cylindrical bending under initial in‐plane thermo‐electromechanical loads. A mixed formulation of governing equations for the incremental problem of buckling/vibration is presented in terms of eight primary variables: three displacements, electric potential, three transverse stresses, and transverse electric displacement. The entities are expanded in Fourier series that satisfy the end conditions. The governing equations reduce to a z‐invariant state equation with the state vector of eight variables. The state vector at the bottom of the laminate is related to that at its top through a global transfer matrix using continuity/jump conditions at the layer interfaces. The eight homogenous boundary conditions at the top and the bottom of the angle‐ply panel are used to set up four homogeneous equations for u, v, w, and ϕ/Dz at the bottom. The determinant of their coefficient matrix is set to zero to obtain the buckling parameter or natural frequency. Benchmark results are presented for hybrid highly inhomogeneous test panel, composite panel, and sandwich panel. The effect of exclusion of the pre‐buckling strains in the formulation on the buckling temperature is investigated. The effects of thickness parameter, and the electric boundary conditions on the buckling loads are illustrated. The enhancement of buckling temperature by the application of actuation potential is discussed. The present benchmark solution would help assess 1D theories for buckling of hybrid angle‐ply panel.
Adolescent aggression: Effects of gender and family and school environments
Authors: Estévez López Estefanía , Pérez Sergio Murgui , Ochoa Gonzalo Musitu , Ruiz David Moreno
Published: November 2007

The present study examined the influence of family and classroom environments on the development of particular individual characteristics, including level of empathy, attitude to institutional authority and perceived social reputation, and the role these characteristics may in turn play in school aggression. Participants were 1319 adolescents aged 11–16 (47% male) drawn from state secondary schools in Valencia (Spain). Since previous studies suggest that these variables may contribute differentially to aggressive behaviour depending on adolescent gender, two different mediational structural models were calculated, respectively, for boys and girls. Results obtained confirmed the associations expected among the variables considered in the structural equations tested and pointed out different paths for boys and girls. Overall, our findings suggested that a positive family environment seems to be a stronger protective factor for girls in the development of problems of behaviour at school, whereas for boys this is the case for a positive classroom environment. This model accounted for 40% of the variance in aggression at school for boys and 35% for girls.
Breaking of resonance and regularizing effect of a first order quasi-linear term in some elliptic equations
Authors: Abdellaoui Boumediene , Peral Ireneo , Primo Ana
Published: November 2007

In this article we study the problem

\text{(P)}\:
\begin{cases}
−\mathrm{\Delta }u + |\mathrm{∇}u|^{q} = \lambda g(x)u + f(x) & \text{in }\Omega , \\ u > 0 & \text{in }\Omega , \\ u = 0 & \text{on }\partial \Omega ,
\end{cases}

with

1⩽q⩽2

and

f,g

are positive measurable functions. We give assumptions on

g

with respect to

q

for which for all

\lambda > 0

and all

f \in L^{1}

,

f⩾0

, problem (P) has a positive solution. In particular we focus our attention on

g(x) = {}^{1}/_{|x|^{2}}

to prove that the assumptions on

g

are optimal.

Dans cet article nous étudions le problème

\text{(P)}\:
\begin{cases}
−\mathrm{\Delta }u + |\mathrm{∇}u|^{q} = \lambda g(x)u + f(x) & \text{in }\Omega , \\ u > 0 & \text{in }\Omega , \\ u = 0 & \text{on }\partial \Omega ,
\end{cases}

où

1⩽q⩽2

et

f,g

sont des fonctions mesurables positives. Nous donnons des hypothèses sur

g

dépendant de

q

telles que pour tout

\lambda > 0

et pour tout

f \in L^{1}

,

f⩾0

, le problème (P) a une solution positive. Nous portons une attention particulière au cas

g(x) = {}^{1}/_{|x|^{2}}

pour montrer que les hypothèses sur

g

sont optimales.
Identification of a novel small Arabidopsis protein interacting with gamma‐tubulin complex protein 3
Authors: Janski Natacha , Herzog Etienne , Schmit Anne‐Catherine
Published: November 2007

In higher plants, microtubules (MTs) show dynamic structural changes during cell cycle and development progression. A precise control of MT nucleation at dispersed sites is one way used to regulate the cytoskeletal organization. Some gamma‐tubulin complex proteins (GCPs) were previously identified in Arabidopsis thaliana (At). They are directly involved in the nucleation process. Nevertheless, no additional player which may anchor the nucleating complex or regulate the nucleation activity has been found in plant cells so far. Therefore, our aim was the identification of Arabidopsis proteins interacting with MT nucleating complexes and particularly with AtGCP3. Performing a yeast two‐hybrid screen, we discovered a new protein which we called AtGCP3 Interacting Protein 1 (AtGIP1). The possible role of this protein during the nucleation process is discussed.
Is the gap between guidelines and clinical practice in heart failure treatment being filled? Insights from the IMPACT RECO survey
Authors: de Groote P. , Isnard R. , Assyag P. , Clerson P. , Ducardonnet A. , Galinier M. , Jondeau G. , Leurs I. , Thébaut J.‐F. , Komajda M.
Published: November 2007

Background

Recent registries have shown that recommended drugs for the treatment of chronic heart failure (CHF) are under‐prescribed in daily practice.

Aims

To determine prescription rates of CHF drugs, and to assess predictive factors for drug prescription using data from a large panel of French cardiologists.

Methods and results

We included 1919 outpatients, with NYHA class II–IV heart failure and a left ventricular ejection fraction <40%. The most frequently prescribed drugs were diuretics (83%), angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE‐I) (71%), beta‐blockers (65%), spironolactone (35%) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB) (21%); 61% of patients received a combination of a beta‐blocker and an ACE‐I or ARB. Target doses were reached in 49% of the patients for ACE‐I, but in only 18% for beta‐blockers and in 9% for ARBs. Multivariate analyses showed that age >75 years was an independent factor associated with under‐prescription of ACE‐I‐ARBs, beta‐blockers or spironolactone. Renal failure was associated with a lower prescription of ACE‐I‐ARB and spironolactone, and asthma was a predictor of under‐prescription of beta‐blockers.

Conclusions

In this contemporary survey, prescription rates of CHF drugs were higher than previously reported. However, dosages were lower than those recommended in guidelines. Age remained an independent predictor of under‐prescription of CHF drugs.
Improvement but no cure of left ventricular systolic dysfunction in treated heart failure patients
Authors: Murphy Niamh F. , O'Loughlin Christina , Ledwidge Mark , McCaffrey Dermot , McDonald Kenneth
Published: November 2007

Background

Recent advances in pharmacological and pacemaker‐based treatments for heart failure (HF) have brought about significant improvements in left ventricular function.

Aims

To identify the proportion of treated systolic HF patients in whom left ventricular systolic function improves and/or returns to normal.

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of 221 HF patients. Improvement in left ventricular function was defined as an improvement in ejection fraction (LVEF) of ≥10% on echocardiography. Return to normal was defined as an improvement of LVEF to ≥50% and a reduction in left ventricular end diastolic diameter to ≤55 mm. Changes in BNP were also recorded.

Results

Improvement in LVEF was observed in 44.3% of patients and return to normal systolic function in 10.9%, only 2.3% had both a return to normal echocardiographic parameters and a BNP<100 pg/ml. A higher percentage of the improved group were on target doses of β‐blockers (p=0.004). Baseline BNP was not a predictor of improvement. There was a trend towards a reduction in HF readmissions in the improved group (p=0.07) but no difference in the risk of death or all‐cause readmission.

Conclusion

While a substantial proportion of treated HF patients have an improvement in left ventricular function over time, only a small proportion return to normal dimensions and LVEF, underlining the permanent nature of ventricular damage in the vast majority of patients.
NFAT signaling in neural development and axon growth
Authors: Nguyen Tuan , Di Giovanni Simone
Published: November 2007

The NFAT (nuclear factor of activated T‐cells) family of transcription factors functions as integrators of multiple signaling pathways by binding to chromatin in combination with other transcription factors and coactivators to regulate genes central for many developmental systems. Recent experimental evidence has shown that the calcineurin/NFAT signaling pathway is important in axonal growth and guidance during vertebrate development. In fact, studies with triple NFATc2/c3/c4 mutant mice demonstrate that the extension and organization of sensory axon projection and commissural axon growth are both dependent upon NFAT activity. Neurotrophin and L‐type calcium channel signaling modulate intracellular calcium levels to regulate the nuclear import and transcriptional activity of NFAT by activating the phosphatase calcineurin. The rephosphorylation and subsequent export of NFAT from the nucleus is mediated by several kinases, including GSK‐3β, which contribute to the fine tuning of NFAT transcriptional activity in neurons.

However, currently, no direct transcriptional targets for NFAT have been identified in a chromatin environment in the nervous system. Undiscovered are also the binding partners of NFAT that might combinatorially regulate specific genes important for neuronal development.

This review will discuss the current knowledge related to NFAT signaling in the nervous system development and the potential for future research directions.
Pyometra in a 13-year-old neutered queen
Authors: de Faria Vanessa P. , Norsworthy Gary D.
Published: November 2007

A 13-year-old female domestic shorthair cat was examined because of weight loss over 4 months. The history included being neutered when a kitten and no signs of estrus recognized by the owner since this surgery. A mid-abdominal mass was palpated. Ultrasonographic abdominal evaluation revealed a tubular fluid-filled mass. The cat underwent surgery to remove the mass, which was one horn of the uterus. The patient made a full recovery.
Transition strategy, corporate exploitation, and state capture: An empirical analysis of the former Soviet states
Authors: Iwasaki Ichiro , Suzuki Taku
Published: November 2007

It is difficult to find, at a glance, a clear connection between corruption and the reform processes in the states of the former Soviet Union (FSU). The key to untangling this issue is to look at the peculiarities of their transition strategies and economic crisis compared with those of Central and East European countries. This paper aims to unravel the complex ties between the transition process and corruption in the FSU states through theoretical and empirical analyses of the impact of multiple factors. These factors include the extent of decentralization of the government–enterprise relationship and the degree of state intervention in corporate management as well as the impact of economic distress that have been affecting the frequency and degree of corporate exploitation and state capture. In this manner, our study aims to complement earlier achievements in this field.
Notes on two West African Hemiptera injurious to Cocoa
Authors: Dudgeon Gerald C.
Published: November 2007

The insect of which drawings are given here (PI. VIII, figs. 1 & 2) is one belonging to the genus Helopeltis (family Capsidæ), which contains a large number of extremely injurious species. The most important of these at present known is H. theivora, Westw., the “Tea Mosquito Blight” of India, which has rendered very large areas of tea-plantations in Northern India unproductive owing to the puncturing of the immature leaves. H. antonii, Sign., has been the cause of similar destruction to tea, cinchona and cocoa in Ceylon, but in the latter plant the puncturings are upon the pod and exactly similar to those produced, by the species now figured. Dr. Trimen referred to these in ‘Nature,” xxx. p. 634, 1884.
A theoretical study of the invasion of cleared areas by tsetse flies (Diptera: Glossinidae)
Authors: Hargrove J.W.
Published: November 2007

Large-scale eradication campaigns against tsetse flies Glossina spp. are giving way to smaller operations aimed at disease and vector containment. There has been little discussion of the effects of these changes in policy. This study estimates the rate at which tsetse re-infect treated areas after the termination of control efforts. Movement is modelled as a diffusion process with a daily root mean square displacement (λ) of 0.2–1 km−1/2 and population growth as logistic with a growth rate (r) ≤1.5% day−1. Invasion fronts move as the product of λ and √r. For r = 0.75% day−1 a front advances at 2.5 km year−1for each 100 m increment in λ. If there are 0.001% survivors in 10% of the treated area, the population recovers to within 1% of the carrying capacity (K) within three years. If the control area is subject to invasion from all sides, a treated block of 10,000 km2 is effectively lost within two years – except at the lowest values of λ and r. Cleared areas of 100 km2 are lost in a year, as observed in a community-based suppression programme in Kenya. If the treated area is closed to re-invasion, but if there is a block where tsetse survive at 0.0001–0.1% of K, the population recovers within 3–4 years for up to 20 km outside the surviving block. If the surviving flies are more widely spread, re-infection is even more rapid. The deterministic approach used here over-estimates re-invasion rates at low density, but comparisons between control scenarios are still valid. Stochastic modelling would estimate more exactly rates of re-infection at near-zero population densities.
Comparison between anopheline mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) caught using different methods in a malaria endemic area of Papua New Guinea
Authors: Hii J.L.K. , Smith T. , Mai A. , Ibam E. , Alpers M.P.
Published: November 2007

The mosquito sampling efficiency of CDC (Centers for Disease Control) miniature light traps hung adjacent to mosquito nets, was compared with that of both indoor and outdoor human-bait collections in ten villages in the Wosera area of Papua New Guinea. The most frequently collected anopheline in the matched indoor and light trap samples was Anopheles koliensis Owen, followed by A. punctulatusDönitz, A. karwari (James), A. farauti Laveran (sensu lato), A. longirostris Brug and A. bancroftii Giles. All species were much less frequent in the light traps than in landing catches. The hypothesis that the numbers of mosquitoes in light traps are proportional to human landing catches was examined using regression models that allowed for sampling error in both entomological measurements. Light traps under-sampled A. punctulatus and A. farautis.l. at high densities. The models indicated that the ratio of light trap to landing catch females of A. koliensis and A. karwari increased with increasing mosquito density. Light trap catches of A. longirostris were proportional to indoor landing rates but when outdoor landing rates were high this species was under-sampled by light traps. Numbers of A. bancroftii in light traps were found to be proportional to those in outdoor landing catches, but were negatively related to those attempting to bite indoors. Circumsporozoite positivity rates for both Plasmodium falciparum Welch and P. vivax (Grassi & Feletti) in A. punctulatus and A. farauti s.l. were significantly higher in light trap collections than in either indoor or outdoor landing catches, suggesting that light traps may selectively sample older mosquitoes of these species.
The use of vertical-looking radar to continuously monitor the insect fauna flying at altitude over southern England
Authors: Smith A.D. , Reynolds D.R. , Riley J.R.
Published: November 2007

The continuous automatic monitoring of the aerial density, biomass and relative diversity of high-flying insect faunas has been made practicable by a new, vertical-looking radar. This inexpensive radar system, with its novel signal analysis capability, represents a major advance over earlier vertical-beam radars because it provides estimates of the body mass of individual overflying insects, as well as measurements of their direction and speed of movement. This paper summarizes data collected over a three-month period by the new radar in the height range from 150 m to c.1 km, over agricultural land in Worcestershire, England. The day-to-day variation in the numbers of insects and their altitudinal and diurnal patterns of flight activity are presented. Examples are also given of distributions of mass, displacement speed and direction, and orientation direction. The potential of the new radar for various research and operational monitoring tasks is briefly discussed.
The biology of Meteorus gyrator (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), a solitary endoparasitoid of the tomato moth, Lacanobia oleracea (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Bell H.A. , Marris G.C. , Bell J. , Edwards J.P.
Published: November 2007

There is a need to identify potential biological control agents for use against lepidopterous pests in greenhouses. The solitary endoparasitoid Meteorus gyrator(Thunberg) attacks a range of macrolepidopterous larvae, including those of some important horticultural pest species. Laboratory trials designed to investigate the biology of M. gyrator on larvae of the tomato moth, Lacanobia oleraceaLinnaeus, reveal that this parasitoid is capable of parasitizing all larval stages of its host, third instars being parasitized most frequently. Each female parasitoid lives for up to 40 days (at 25°C), ovipositing into an average of 78 hosts. Preadult development is rapid (~ 2 weeks), and the sex ratio of offspring is 1:1. Parasitism by M. gyrator suppresses the growth of both early and late host instars, and there is a concomitant reduction in the amount of food consumed (overall feeding reduction over a 12 day period is 68%). Our results indicate that inoculative releases of M. gyrator could provide effective biological control of L. oleracea and other noctuid pests of greenhouses.
Sublethal concentrations of azadirachtin affect food intake, conversion efficiency and feeding behaviour of Spodoptera littoralis (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Martinez S.S. , van Emden H.F.
Published: November 2007

Sublethal concentrations of azadirachtin incorporated into artificial diet and offered to third-instar larvae of Spodoptera littoralis (Boisduval) prolonged larval instars and reduced food intake. These effects were observed after the treated larvae had been transferred to plain diet; the reduced food intake was therefore a secondary antifeedant effect. Azadirachtin did not influence digestion efficiency but diminished the ability of the larvae to convert both ingested and digested nutrients into growth, particularly immediately after treatment. This effect declined with time once the treatment with azadirachtin had ceased. Growth was more severely reduced than food intake, and the reduction in growth also occurred during periods when food intake was not affected, possibly due to post-ingestive effects.
Electrophoretic and DNA identification of Anopheles bwambae and A. gambiae (Diptera: Culicidae) in western Uganda
Authors: Charalambous M. , Townson H. , Harbach R.E. , Mukwaya L.G.
Published: November 2007

Collections of mosquitoes of the Anopheles gambiae Giles complex were made from the geothermal springs and surrounding area in the Semliki Valley, Bwamba County, Uganda, which is the only known locality of A. bwambae White. Specimens were analysed in one of three ways: rDNA-PCR for unequivocal species identification, allozyme electrophoresis to determine superoxide dismutase (Sod) and octanol dehydrogenase (Odh) genotypes, or both methods. Ribosomal DNA-PCR identification revealed the presence of A. bwambae and A. gambiae. Allozyme electrophoresis of 181 individuals showed that A. bwambae possessed the Sod105and Sod100 alleles and was not monomorphic for Sod105as reported previously. In adults reared from collections made in the vicinity of the geothermal springs, the frequency of Sod105 was found to be 0.614. Anopheles gambiae was fixed for Sod100. The majority of individuals homozygous for the Sod100 allele could be identified to species using Odh. Odh95 was found to be common in A. bwambae (frequency = 0.988) while A. gambiae appeared to be fixed for Odh100. Since Odh100occurred at a frequency of 1.2% in A. bwambae (concomitant with Sodgenotypes of 105/105, 100/105 or 100/100), individuals homozygous for Sod100 and Odh100 could be either species. Among 25 A. bwambae specimens homozygous for Sod100, one (4%) was also homozygous for Odh100. At present, this subset of the A. bwambae population can only be correctly identified to species using rDNA-PCR analysis.
Responses ofGlossina fuscipes fuscipes(Diptera: Glossinidae) and other Diptera to carbon dioxide in linear and dense forests
Authors: Mohamed-Ahmed M.M. , Mihok S.
Published: November 2007

The responses ofGlossina fuscipes fuscipesNewstead and other Diptera to carbon dioxide were studied in linear and dense forests along the shores of Lake Victoria, Kenya. Flies were caught in biconical traps and were intercepted with electric nets while in flight near traps. Carbon dioxide dispensed at a high rate (5 l min–1) in linear forest failed to increase the numbers of tsetse attracted to or caught in traps. In contrast, catches of non-biting Muscidae, Stomoxyinae and Tabanidae were improved by up to 11 times. Inside dense forest, carbon dioxide released at half this rate increased both the numbers of female tsetse attracted to a trap and the catches in a trap by about 2–3 times. Catches of male tsetse were, however, not affected. Striking improvements for other Diptera were also realized (up to 102 times). Under a variety of conditions, unbaited biconical traps attracted many Diptera to the vicinity of a trap, but caught few flies due to low capture efficiencies (typically less than 10%). In contrast, efficiency estimates forG. f. fuscipeswere good, varying from 37 to 82% in different habitats and seasons. These results are discussed in relation to the search for practical odour attractants for riverine tsetse.
Parasitoid assemblage size and host ranges in a parasitoid (Hymenoptera)–agromyzid (Diptera) system from central Argentina
Authors: Salvo A. , Valladares G.
Published: November 2007

A parasitoid community on agromyzid leafminers from Cordoba, Argentina was analysed in terms of parasitoid assemblage size and host ranges of parasitoid species. Samples were taken during 1991–1995 at natural, urban and agricultural habitats. The system consisted of 69 parasitoid species and 51 leafminer species on 109 plant species. On average, 12 species parasitized each host, when only numerically well represented leafminer species were considered for analysis. Each parasitoid species exploited on average seven species and three genera of agromyzid leafminers. Both parasitoid assemblage size and parasitoid host range were notably high when compared with similar systems from other regions.
Learning inHelicoverpa armigera(Lepidoptera: Noctuidae): a new look at the behaviour and control of a polyphagous pest
Authors: Cunningham J.P. , Zalucki M.P. , West S.A.
Published: November 2007

Recent experimental evidence has shown that learning occurs in the host selection behaviour ofHelicoverpa armigera(Hübner), one of the world‘s most important agricultural pests. This paper discusses how the occurrence of learning changes our understanding of the host selection behaviour of this polyphagous moth. Host preferences determined from previous laboratory studies may be vastly different from preferences exhibited by moths in the field, where the abundance of particular hosts may be more likely to determine host preference. In support of this prediction, a number of field studies have shown that the ‘attractiveness’ of different hosts forH. armigeraoviposition may depend on the relative abundance of these host species. Insect learning may play a fundamental role in the design and application of present and future integrated pest management strategies such as the use of host volatiles, trap crops and resistant crop varieties for monitoring and controlling this important pest species.
Development of odour-baited traps for Glossina swynnertoni (Diptera: Glossinidae)
Authors: Ndegwa P.N. , Mihok S.
Published: November 2007

Three new prototype traps, (S1–S3), were developed during studies of the behavioural ecology of Glossina swynnertoni Austen in Kenya and Tanzania. The traps were compared in latin square experiments relative to the regular biconical trap as a standard and a selection of other conventional tsetse traps. Observations were also made on fly behaviour in the vicinity of traps using electric nets and sticky materials. When baited with acetone and 1-octen-3-ol, the S1 trap was 3.5 times as effective in catching G. swynnertoni in Kenya as the biconical trap. In Tanzania, the relative performance of the S1 and biconical traps differed; also, both traps were found to be inferior to an all-black, sticky 1-m2target. A second prototype (S2) performed slightly better than the biconical trap, but was still inferior to the black target. The final prototype (S3) was 2.9 times as effective as the biconical trap and performed as well as the black target. The potential for further improvement of traps for capturing G. swynnertoni and flies of the G. morsitans Westwood group is discussed.
Biogeography of theCinara cupressicomplex (Hemiptera: Aphididae) on Cupressaceae, with description of a pest species introduced into Africa
Authors: Watson G.W. , Voegtlin D.J. , Murphy S.T. , Foottit R.G.
Published: November 2007

In recent decades, aphids identified asCinara cupressi(Buckton) have seriously damaged commercial and ornamental plantings and native stands ofCupressus,Juniperus,Widdringtoniaand other Cupressaceae in Africa, Italy, Jordan, Yemen, Mauritius and Colombia. Aphids currently identified asCinara cupressiappear to belong to a species complex. This work was undertaken to identify the pest, its likely area of origin and any specific natural enemies, to facilitate a biological control programme. The biogeography of the species complex was studied using morphometric analysis of specimens from all the major regions where they have been collected, and analysis of host-plant ranges, parasitoid records and host association information. The cause of tree damage is shown to be an unnamed species, here described asC. (Cupressobium)cupressivoraWatson & Voegtlinsp. n., which probably originated onCupressus sempervirensin a region from eastern Greece to just south of the Caspian Sea. The remainder of the complex,Cinara cupressisensu lato, apparently consists of three morphologically similar species (C. sabinae(Gillette & Palmer) andC. cupressi(Buckton), probably originating in North America, and an unidentified species). There is insufficient data available to separate these taxa, or to determine the status ofC. canadensisHottes & Bradley, soC. sabinaeandC. canadensisare left in synonymy underC. cupressi(Buckton).Lachniella tujaedel Guercio andL. juniperi signatadel Guercio, thought to be part of theC. cupressicomplex, were found to be junior synonyms ofC. tujafilina(del Guercio); these new synonymies are proposed and lectotypes ofL. tujaeandL. juniperi signataare designated.
Physicians’ career satisfaction, quality of care and patients’ trust: the role of community uninsurance
Authors: PAGÁN JOSÉ A. , BALASUBRAMANIAN LAKSHMI , PAULY MARK V.
Published: November 2007

There is evidence that health care providers located in communities with relatively large uninsured populations face financial difficulties because of low service demand and high levels of uncompensated care. Data on 4,920 physicians from the 2000–2001 Community Tracking Study Physician Survey and from 25,637 adults from the 2003 Community Tracking Study Household Survey were used to analyze whether the relative size of the local uninsured population is associated with the level of career satisfaction and the quality of care provided by physicians and to assess whether patient trust is associated with the level of community uninsurance. The results indicate that the proportion of uninsured adults in a given community is negatively related to physicians’ career satisfaction and the perceived quality of health care provided. Community uninsurance is also negatively related to patient trust in their doctor and positively related to whether insured patients believed that their doctor was influenced by rules from health insurance companies. Physicians in communities with relatively large uninsured populations may have lower career satisfaction and lower perceptions of the quality of care provided due to financial difficulties. Patients in these communities are also less likely to trust their physician.
Integration of Perceptual Input and Visual Imagery in Chess Players: Evidence From Eye Movements
Authors: Campitelli Guillermo , Gobet Fernand , Williams Gareth , Parker Amanda
Published: November 2007

This multiple-case study addresses the question of how information from the environment is integrated with mental images. Chess players (N = 4) of different skill levels were submitted to a visual imagery task with familiar stimuli (chess positions) and unfamiliar stimuli (boards containing shapes). A position that remained unchanged and a grid in which moves were displayed using a standard chess notation familiar to the participants were visually presented. The participants’ task was to mentally reproduce a sequence of moves from the original position. Retention of updated positions was assessed with a memory task. Eye movements were recorded during the entire experiment. We found that (a) players performed better with familiar than with unfamiliar stimuli; (b) there was a strong correlation between skill level and performance in the familiar, but not the unfamiliar condition; (c) players used the external board as an external memory store; but (d) there was no difference in the extent to which players of different skill levels shifted their attention to the external board. Using control tasks unrelated to chess, we established that the skilled and unskilled players did not differ with respect to general cognitive abilities. These results emphasize the role of long-term memory in expertise and suggest that players use processes that enable them to smoothly combine information from the environment with mental images.
Gender Differences in Vocational Interests and Their Stability Across Different Assessment Methods
Authors: T. Proyer René , Häusler Joachim
Published: November 2007

In studies on gender differences with respect to Holland’s (1997) vocational interests, men often score higher on Realistic (and sometimes also on Investigative and Enterprising) interests, and women score higher on Social and Artistic interests. In research and practice, vocational interests are almost exclusively assessed by means of questionnaires. The aim of this study was to examine whether these results are also stable across assessment methods. Thus, a questionnaire and a nonverbal interest inventory were administered to a sample of N = 448 participants. Results were in the expected direction for both inventories, men scoring higher on Realistic interests and women scoring higher on Artistic and Social interests. However, the structure of interests varied between men and women: The structural assumptions of Holland’s theory fit the data for men better than the data for women. Thus, mean-level gender differences should be interpreted conservatively.
Emotionale und kardiovaskuläre Reaktionen von Paaren während einer paartherapeutischen Intervention
Authors: Schaer Marcel , Ditzen Beate , Heinrichs Markus , Bodenmann Guy
Published: November 2007

Zusammenfassung. Theoretischer Hintergrund: Die Wirksamkeit von Paartherapien und präventiven Interventionsprogrammen für Paare gilt als gut dokumentiert. Das Wissen wie diese Veränderungen zustande kommen ist jedoch defizitär. Aus diesem Grund wurde gefordert, neben dem Therapieoutcome auch die Wirkungsweise der Interventionen zu erforschen. Fragestellung: Ziel der vorliegenden Studie ist es zu untersuchen, wie Paare auf eine bewältigungsorientierte paartherapeutische Intervention, die 3-Phasen-Methode von Bodenmann (2004) , emotional und physiologisch reagieren. Methode: Während eines therapeutisch angeleiteten Gesprächs über ein paarexternes Stressereignis wurden bei den Paaren (N = 18) die Herzrate und das emotionale Befinden erfasst. Ergebnisse: Frauen wiesen gegenüber Männern stärkere emotionale und kardiovaskuläre Reaktionen auf und reagierten empathischer. Die Erfahrung von Unterstützung durch den Partner (dyadisches Coping) war mit einer emotionalen und physiologischen Entlastung assoziiert. Schlussfolgerung: Die Resultate unterstreichen unter anderem die Wichtigkeit des dyadischen Copings für emotionale und physiologische Prozesse während Paarinterventionen.
Statistical behaviors of different‐sized grains lifting off in stochastic collisions between mixed sand grains and the bed in aeolian saltation
Authors: Li Wan‐Qing , Zhou You‐He
Published: November 2007

Multiple‐size splash models are derived from the simulation results of mixed grain‐bed impact process of windblown sand flow based on the Particles Dynamics Method (PDM) and parallel algorithm. Unlike previous studies, a probability density distribution of sand diameter is considered in the present study, in which a two‐dimensional mixed sand bed is generated by a random method. After the diameter distribution of incident grains is divided into n subregions of representative diameters, first, the collisions are simulated out for each representative diameter of incident grains with an incident velocity impacting the mixed sand bed, to which the information of grains experiencing saltation liftoff may be gained at the end of collisions. After that, a statistical approach is proposed to obtain the average values of velocity and number of the ejecting and rebounding grains as well as the probability density function (PDF) of ejection particle sizes. The results confirm earlier findings that the ratio between outgoing and incoming speed remains about 60% and the ejection angles are typically between 60–80°. However, other properties of grains experiencing saltation liftoff depend not only upon incident velocity as previously argued, but also much upon grain size of incident grains. We found that rebound angle decreases and death rate of incident particles increases with incident grain size exponentially, and ejection speed and number increase logarithmically with both speed and diameter of incident grains. In addition, the PDF of initial diameter is also presented for the first time. These results well agree with the multiple‐size measurement data.
Comparison of ClO measurements from the Aura Microwave Limb Sounder to ground‐based microwave measurements at Scott Base, Antarctica, in spring 2005
Authors: Connor Brian J. , Mooney Thomas , Barrett James , Solomon Philip , Parrish Alan , Santee Michelle
Published: November 2007

We have examined measurements of chlorine monoxide, ClO, in the lower stratosphere by the Microwave Limb Sounder (MLS) on the Aura satellite in the austral spring of 2005. These measurements have been compared to those of a ground‐based spectrometer at Scott Base, Antarctica. The data analysis is performed in both cases by subtracting nighttime measurements from daytime ones. The transition from full darkness to full daylight at the high latitude of Scott Base limits the time during which both day and night measurements are made. After further selection for good observing conditions and the position of the polar vortex, 16 valid profile comparisons are made. The day‐to‐day variability of ClO is observed to be large, ∼30% of its peak value. The daily column densities of the two instruments are correlated with a significance of 3σ with most of the mean difference arising from 2 days. The statistical agreement between MLS and the Scott Base instrument is good. Scott Base values are on average marginally but not significantly larger, by 0.10 ± 0.07 ppb, or 11 ± 8% (1σ), in peak mixing ratio, than the MLS values.
ULTRASTRUCTURAL CHANGES CAUSED BY SWAINSCWA GALEGIFOLIA POISONING IN THE GUINEA‐PIG
Authors: Huxtable CR
Published: November 2007

Vacuolation of the cells of many tissues has been produced by feeding guinea‐pigs on Swainsona galegifolia.

Medullary neurones, hepatocytes, hepatic sinusoidal cells and pancreatic acinar cells from such animals have been examined with the electron microscope.

In each case the vacuoles have been found to be single membrane‐bound and to have no clear‐cut morphological relationship with the normal organelles.

Their possible relationship with lysosomes is discussed.
Ligand discovery and virtual screening using the program LIDAEUS
Authors: Taylor P , Blackburn E , Sheng Y G , Harding S , Hsin K‐Y , Kan D , Shave S , Walkinshaw M D
Published: November 2007

This paper discusses advances in docking and scoring approaches with examples from the high‐throughput virtual screening program LIDAEUS. We describe the discovery of small molecule inhibitors for the immunophilin CypA, the cyclin‐dependent kinase CDK2 and the cyclapolin series of potent Polo‐like kinase inhibitors. These results are discussed in the context of advances in massively parallel computing and in the development of annotated databases.

British Journal of Pharmacology (2008) 153, S55–S67; doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0707532; published online 26 November 2007