bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anger management training: the effects of a structured programme on the self‐reported anger experience of forensic inpatients with learning disability
Authors: BURNS M. , BIRD D. , LEACH C. , HIGGINS K.
Published: September 2003

Within the current political climate, there is an increasing burden on mental health professionals to achieve accuracy in risk assessment and prediction. The accurate assessment and treatment of anger can make a valuable contribution towards alleviating this burden as part of a comprehensive treatment package. This study describes an anger management training programme provided to a group of three forensic inpatients with learning disability. An ABA single case study design was used, with anger levels assessed at weekly intervals before, during and after the programme. The results suggested that anger management training is useful with this client group, with established tools, such as the Novaco Anger Scale, the Spielberger State‐Trait Anger Expression Inventory and the Modified Overt Aggression Scale, allowing the impact of the programme on anger levels to be evaluated. There is an indication that maintenance treatment is required to prevent anger levels increasing to pretest levels following treatment.
Exploring evidence of the therapeutic relationship in forensic psychiatric nursing
Authors: MARTIN T. , STREET A. F.
Published: September 2003

While the body of nursing research in forensic psychiatry is growing rapidly, the therapeutic nurse–patient relationship in secure hospitals needs to be further examined. This paper reports on a research project that found two representations of the nurse–patient relationship in two male acute secure inpatient units. One representation was formed by the data collected from the unit nurses in semistructured interviews. The nurses valued the relationship and described their practice as therapeutic, however, evidence from the interviews would suggest that the nurses operate from a social frame of reference. Examination of the nurses ‘entries in patients’ case files formed the other representation. Through their documentation practices, nursing was represented as being oriented to custodial care. While neither representation can capture the clinical reality, these findings are relevant to forensic psychiatric nurses as their entries are a historical record through which their practice will become known to others, and in some cases, judged by others.
Forensic nursing practice with asylum seekers in the USA – advocacy and international human rights: a pilot study
Authors: BOERSMA R. R.
Published: September 2003

In this study, the author investigated the characteristics of US asylum seekers undergoing evaluation by an advanced practice forensic nurse. Twenty‐one petitioners from 14 countries, ranging in age from 17 to 53 years, were examined. All asylum seekers were evaluated, based upon US asylum granting standards for ‘persecution’ and ‘well‐founded fear of future persecution’ arising from asylum seekers’ race, religion, nationality, political opinion or membership in a particular social group. The methods used to persecute asylum seekers included sexual violence, physical violence, threatened physical violence, intimidation and psychological violence. These types of torture were grouped according to world region, gender, age group and the presence of forensic markers or evidence. Study limitations and forensic nursing role opportunities are discussed.
The effects of single session education in reducing symptoms of distress following patient assault in nurses working in medium secure settings
Authors: NHIWATIWA F. G.
Published: September 2003

Violence in the workplace is a hazard. Nurses, as a professional group, have the second highest risk of being physically assaulted of all occupational groups. The cost of violent assaults to individuals and organizations is unnecessarily high. This study aimed to explore the effectiveness of a brief educational intervention (reading a booklet on effects of trauma and coping) in reducing distress in nurses working in medium security settings who are physically assaulted by patients. This study found a significant difference in distress score between the education and control group, with education group showing greater distress levels at 3‐month follow‐up. The study also found a positive correlation between the participant's rating of injury and their feeling of distress.
Gender politics and secure services for women: reflections on a study of staff understandings of challenging behaviour
Authors: MCKEOWN M. , ANDERSON J. , BENNETT A. , CLAYTON P.
Published: September 2003

This paper discusses the findings of a Q methodological study that investigated the complexity of professional understandings of (attitudes towards) residents in a secure unit for women with learning disabilities and challenging behaviours. Particular attention is afforded to the critical debate regarding women in psychiatric and secure care, including the significant contribution made to this literature by feminist perspectives. A multiprofessional group of staff (n = 38) participated in the study and nine distinct accounts of women's challenging behaviour are described. Despite a considerable amount of recent policy concern with the position of women in psychiatric services, the findings of this research suggest that many front line staff are reluctant to highlight gender in their explanations of women's behaviour. This supports the assertion by Williams et al. (2001), who were involved in the National Gender Training Initiative (NGTI), that most critical theorizing about women's mental health has had minimal impact at the level of individuals’ understandings of these important issues. This state of affairs suggests a powerful case for the expansion of staff training as provided in the NGTI, which makes gender central to understanding and emphasizes feminist perspectives.
The attitudes of forensic nurses to substance using service users
Authors: FOSTER J. H. , ONYEUKWU C.
Published: September 2003

There is now a body of research that has shown that the attitudes of nurses towards substance misuse in the mentally ill are generally suboptimal and this has an impact on the quality of nursing care provided. Despite this, to date there have been no published studies that have examined the attitudes of forensic nurses towards substance misusing forensic service users. Sixty‐three multiethnic registered forensic psychiatric nurses based on an inpatient unit in outer London were surveyed using the Substance Abuse Attitude Survey (SAAS). This has five subscores: Treatment Intervention, Treatment Optimism, Permissiveness, Non‐Moralism and Non‐Stereotypes. Only Permissiveness scores were at an optimum level and equivalent to other community mental health workers. The Treatment Intervention and Treatment Optimism subscores were well below those of a multidisciplinary group of community mental health workers. Three other findings were of note. Firstly, women had higher Non‐Moralism scores than men. Secondly, staff nurses had higher Non‐Stereotypes scores than other grades. Finally, Black nurses had higher Treatment Optimism scores than non‐Black colleagues. In conclusion, the attitudes of forensic nurses towards substance misuse in forensic clients are more suboptimal than other groups of community mental health workers. Our findings also indicate that gender, staff grading and ethnicity are associated with suboptimal scores.
Reflecting together: developing a new strategy for continuous user involvement in mental health nurse education
Authors: MCANDREW S. , SAMOCIUK G. A.
Published: September 2003

This paper explores the first issues encountered when establishing a method of service user involvement in the preparation of a cohort of mental health nursing students during their branch programme. The method involved the creation of a group of service users and students whose purpose was to jointly reflect upon mental health issues. To do this students are expected to use their experience from practice placements and the service users to use their experiences as recipients of mental health services. This approach is being investigated through research utilizing an evaluative case study with features of action research incorporated into the design. The findings to date, which concern the process of negotiation, pre‐study attitudinal survey and the first group process, will be presented. This will offer mental health professionals the opportunity to gain insight into one approach of actively involving service users in programmes of higher education over a sustained period of time. Reflection on practice themes will include: collaborative strategy, evaluative case study, education, mental health nursing, reflection on practice, and service‐user involvement.
Growth Kinetics of Porcine Lymphatic Organs during Early Postnatal Life
Authors: Schnapper A. , Uhr G. , Meyer W.
Published: September 2003

During the critical early postnatal period, the development of lymphatic organs, being the major structural components of the immune system, progresses rapidly. In this context, the growth kinetics and growth rates of Peyer's patches, tonsilla veli palatini, lymphnodes (lc. mesentericum craniale and lc. bronchale), spleen and thymus were investigated in German landrace piglets from birth until 2 weeks of age. The weight of all these organs increased faster than body weight but regression analysis revealed remarkable differences in growth kinetics and growth rates. The lymphoepithelial organs (Peyer's patches, tonsilla veli palatini) had low growth rates at birth (∼10%/day) that increased continuously until 2 weeks, while lymphnodes and spleen exhibited constant high growth rates (∼40%/day). Small intestinal lymphnodes alone showed biphasic growth kinetics which could be attributed to colostrum absorption. The growth kinetics of the thymus included a point of inflexion at the end of the first week. The differences in growth kinetics and growth rates are discussed with regard to their immunobiological relevance.
The Impact of Underseeding Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) on Timothy (Phleum pratense L.)‐Clover (Trifolium pratense L.; Trifolium hybridum L.) Forage Production in a Cool Maritime Climate
Authors: Spaner D. , Todd A. G.
Published: September 2003

Growing barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) in the year of forage establishment is a common agronomic practice in marginal growing regions, but is often not recommended to growers. We examined the effect of silage barley production over an establishing timothy (Phleum pratense L.)‐clover (Trifolium pratense L.; Trifolium hybridum L.) forage sward in a 4‐year study near St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada. The experiment compared two barley varieties differing in plant height (semidwarf Chapais and Leger), three barley seeding rates and the effect of a forage understorey on forage (barley) production in the establishment year and forage (timothy‐clover) production in the subsequent year. The taller Leger yielded similar forage biomass to Chapais in the year of forage establishment, which (when planted at 375 plants m−2) was roughly twice that of a pure‐stand timothy‐clover mix. Increasing the barley seeding rate from 125 to 375 plants m−2 resulted in a linear increase in forage yield in the year of planting. The production of barley forage in the establishment year resulted in reduced timothy‐clover forage yield in the year following barley planted at 125 and 375 seeds m−2, but not for barley planted at 250 seeds m−2. Companion planting also altered forage species composition in that higher barley seeding rates resulted in 12–18 % less timothy and 2–4 % lower fibre levels in the year following planting. Barley seeded at rates of 250–375 seeds m−2 and undersown with a timothy‐clover mixture (harvested at mid‐milk) resulted in greater forage yield of poorer quality than pure‐stand timothy‐clover in the planting year, and a barley seeding rate of 250 seeds m−2 did not impede forage production in the subsequent year.
Allocation of Photosynthates and Grain Growth of Two Wheat Cultivars with Different Potential Grain Growth in Response to Pre‐ and Post‐anthesis Shading
Authors: Wang Z. , Yin Y. , He M. , Zhang Y. , Lu S. , Li Q. , Shi S.
Published: September 2003

Grain yield in wheat is dependent on photosynthate production and allocation. Light intensity is one of the main factors affecting photosynthate production and allocation, and grain yield. This study was conducted to determine whether cultivars varying in grain number per spike and grain weight respond differently to pre‐anthesis shading (PRE) and post‐anthesis shading (POST), and to characterize the responses in production and allocation of photosynthate, yield and yield components, and spike traits. Both PRE and POST caused a decrease in both dry matter (DM) accumulation and allocation to grain. Cultivar Lumai 22, which has a large spike and large grains, was more sensitive to either PRE or POST. PRE reduced photosynthate production and partitioning to the spike in Lumai 22 at anthesis. In contrast, PRE had little influence on these parameters in the small‐spike, small‐grain cultivar Yannong 15. POST reduced the partitioning to the grain, especially in Lumai 22, for which marked reductions in biomass and grain yield were found for both the PRE and POST treatments. Changes in yield components attributable to shading varied with cultivars. The number of spikes m−2 was not affected by either PRE or POST. Lumai 22 was more seriously affected by shading than Yannong 15 in terms of grain number per spike and weight per grain. The decreases in grain number or weight per spikelet in both the PRE and POST treatments took place mainly in the upper and basal spikelets, especially in Lumai 22. We concluded that the adaptability of the small‐spike, small‐grain cultivar Yannong 15 to either PRE or POST was much greater than that of the large‐spike, large‐grain cultivar Lumai 22 in terms of many characteristics closely related to grain yield. Hence, we suggest that, in areas where low light intensity often occurs, the small‐spike, small‐grain cultivar would be more likely to produce high, stable grain yields.
Leaf Carbon Isotope Discrimination and its Relation with Qualitative Root Traits and Harvest Index in Sugar Beet (Beta vulgaris L.)
Authors: Tsialtas J. T. , Karadimos D. A.
Published: September 2003

Twenty commercial sugar beet varieties were grown at two sites in central Greece during the 2001 growing season (March to October), in a completely randomized block design with three replications. Carbon isotope discrimination (Δ) in sugar beet leaves was found to be affected by site and marginally by variety. No relation was found between fresh root yield and Δ, but significant correlations were found between Δ and sucrose content (positive) and between Δ and root α‐amino‐N (negative). Also, the harvest index, determined at one site, was negatively correlated with Δ.
Chickpea Yields in Relation to Rhizobium Inoculation from Wild Chickpea at High Altitudes
Authors: Kantar F. , Elkoca E. , Öğütcü H. , Algur Ö. F.
Published: September 2003

A study was conducted in order to investigate yields in relation to seed inoculation of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L. cv. Aziziye‐94) with eight Rhizobium leguminosarum ssp. ciceri strains isolated from wild chickpeas (C. anatolicum) of high altitudes (2000–2500 m) in comparison with standard bacterial culture, uninoculated control and mineral nitrogen fertilizer application in the growth room and in the field in 1999, 2000 and 2001 in Erzurum (29°55′N and 41°16′E at an altitude of 1850 m), Turkey.In the growth room trial, bacterial inoculations significantly increased shoot dry weight, N %, total N, N fixed and efficiency of symbiosis compared with the uninoculated control treatment depending on the strains. In the field trial, inoculations with HF 274 and HF 177 increased nodule dry weight, N %, chlorophyll, seed yield and total biomass yield depending on the strains, the lowest values being recorded in uninoculated plots. As an average of years, inoculation with HF 274, HF 177 and standard bacterial culture increased seed yields, respectively, by 23.3, 22.7 and 16.8 % over uninoculated control.In conclusion, rhizobial inoculation of chickpea with HF 274 and HF 177 strains isolated from wild chickpeas (C. anatolicum) of high altitudes may substitute costly N fertilizers in chickpea production even in cold highland areas such as Erzurum.
Allelopathic Effects of Black Mustard (Brassica nigra) on Germination and Growth of Wild Barley (Hordeum spontaneum)
Authors: Tawaha A. M. , Turk M. A.
Published: September 2003

Black mustard [Brassica nigra (L.) Koch.] contains water‐soluble allelochemicals that inhibit the germination and growth of other species. This characteristic could be used in weed management programmes. Greenhouse and laboratory experiments were conducted to determine the effects on wild barley (Hordeum spontaneum Koch.) germination and seedling growth of (i) preceding crops, (ii) fresh black mustard residue incorporation, and (iii) black mustard leaf, stem, flower and root water extract concentrations. Growth of wild barley, as indicated by plant height and weight, was significantly reduced when grown in soil previously cropped to black mustard compared with that cropped to wild barley. Soil incorporation of fresh black mustard roots and both roots and shoots reduced wild barley germination, plant height and weight when compared with a no‐residue control. In bioassays, black mustard extracts reduced wild barley hypocotyl length, hypocotyl weight, radicle weight, seed germination, and radicle length by as much as 44, 55, 57, 63 and 75 %, respectively, when compared with a water control. Increasing the water extract concentrations from 4 to 20 g per 100 ml of water of all black mustard parts significantly increased the inhibition of wild barley germination, seedling length and weight. Based on 8‐day‐old wild barley radicle length, averaged across all extract concentrations, the degree of toxicity of different black mustard plant parts can be ranked in the following order of inhibition: leaves > flowers > mixture of all plant parts > stems > roots.
The Effects of Depth and Duration of Burial on Seasonal Germination, Dormancy and Viability of Galium aparine and Bifora radians Seeds
Authors: Mennan H.
Published: September 2003

The effects of depth and duration of burial on seasonal germination, primary/secondary dormancy, and viability of Galium aparine and Bifora radians were studied in two experiments. The seeds of both species were buried at different depths with four replications in a split‐plot design in the first experiment. The seeds were exhumed from the field at monthly intervals and germinated under suitable temperature conditions. In the second experiment, the seeds of both species were stored at 20 °C and 50 % relative humidity after harvest. Four replicates of seeds from each species were adjusted for germination tests at monthly intervals. Non‐germinated seeds of either the first or the second experiment were treated with triphenyltetrazolium chloride in order to enhance the viability of seeds at monthly intervals until the end of the experiment. The seeds of G. aparine showed cyclic behaviour in the burial experiment. The germination percentage of B. radians seeds never exceeded 8 % at all depths until 7 months after burial due to primary dormancy. Thereafter, the seeds showed typical cyclic behaviour with modest deviation. In both the species, the depth of burial strongly affected seed viability. In the dry storage conditions, the seeds of G. aparine and B. radians showed a high level of primary dormancy. The percentage viability of seeds declined depending on the duration of storage.
A Hitchhiker's Guide to Mixed Models for Randomized Experiments
Authors: Piepho H. P. , Büchse A. , Emrich K.
Published: September 2003

Designed experiments conducted by crop scientists often give rise to several random sources of variation. Pertinent examples are split‐plot designs, series of experiments and repeated measurements taken on the same field plot. Data arising from such experiments may be conveniently analysed by mixed models. While the mixed model framework is by now very well developed theoretically, and good software is readily available, the technology is still under‐utilized. The purpose of the present paper is, therefore, to encourage more widespread use of mixed models. We outline basic principles, which help in setting up mixed models appropriate in a given situation, the main task required from users of mixed model software. Several examples are considered to demonstrate key issues. The theoretical underpinnings are briefly sketched in so far as they are practically relevant for making informed use of mixed‐model computer packages. Finally, a brief review is given of some recent methodological developments, which are of interest to the plant sciences. A German version of this paper is available from the corresponding author upon request.
Effects of a Nitrogen‐Fixing Indigenous Bacterium (Klebsiella pneumoniae) on the Growth and Development of the Halophyte Salicornia bigelovii as a New Crop for Saline Environments
Authors: Rueda‐Puente E. , Castellanos T. , Troyo‐Diéguez E. , Díaz de León‐Alvarez J. L. , Murillo‐Amador B.
Published: September 2003

Salicornia bigelovii is a novel crop for salty soils, which can contribute to arid‐zone management where irrigation with salty water, including sea water, is now a necessity. Nitrogen fixation by bacteria associated with the roots of S. bigelovii and similar halophytes is an important source of available nitrogen in salt marsh ecosystems. However, the diversity of the rhizosphere of Salicornia is unknown. Five areas around the Bay of La Paz in Baja California Sur, Mexico were sampled to detect nitrogen‐fixing bacteria associated with this halophyte; from these, 18 colonies were isolated. Only one showed high acetylene reduction activity. This bacterium was identified as Klebsiella pneumoniae. The effects of K. pneumoniae were evaluated at the germination and early seedling growth stages of two genotypes of S. bigelovii (‘wild genotype’ and cultivar SOS‐10), as an alternative crop for semiarid and saline environments. This bacterium, in conjunction with Azospirillum halopraeferens, was tested for growth‐promoting ability when inoculated on S. bigelovii genotypes under various saline concentration conditions. During germination and early seedling growth, K. pneumoniae showed high specificity for the wild S. bigelovii genotype, while A. halopraeferens was more specific for the improved S. bigelovii genotype SOS‐10. This is the first report of K. pneumoniae as a nitrogen‐fixing bacterium associated with the oilseed S. bigelovii, a novel halophyte crop. A reliable biological method, based on beneficial bacteria, is suggested to help maintain or improve the fertility of soils sustaining Salicornia fields.
Relationship between Frost Tolerance and Cold‐Induced Resistance of Spring Barley, Meadow Fescue and Winter Oilseed Rape to Fungal Pathogens
Authors: Płażek A. , Hura K. , Żur I. , Niemczyk E.
Published: September 2003

Plants exposed to one stress factor may become more tolerant to another. Cold is the most often documented factor inducing plant resistance to pathogens. The aim of this work was to investigate whether resistance of spring barley and meadow fescue to Bipolaris sorokiniana and resistance of winter oilseed rape to Phoma lingam induced at 5 °C for 2, 4 or 6 weeks are associated with frost tolerance, water potential and soluble carbohydrate content. Cold‐acclimated plants of each species showed increased resistance to the studied pathogens. Barley, fescue and rape plants demonstrated higher frost tolerance after hardening, but only in the case of fescue a correlation between resistance to frost and resistance to B. sorokiniana was found. A significant decrease in the water potential of leaf cells was observed in cold‐acclimated barley and fescue. In these two species, water potential greatly affected resistance to B. sorokiniana. However, only in barley did accumulation of fructose, glucose and sucrose correlate as well with changes in water potential as with cold‐induced resistance to the pathogen. In the case of hardened rape, no correlation between the studied parameters was found. The results obtained indicated that the temperature of 5 °C used during cold acclimation was not favourable for hardening of this plant species.
Effect of Planting Date on Seed Yield, Oil Content and Fatty Acid Composition of Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius) Cultivars Grown in the Mediterranean Region of Turkey
Authors: Samancı B. , Özkaynak E.
Published: September 2003

A study was conducted to investigate the effect of different planting dates (25 April, 5 May and 15 May 1998 and 30 April, 15 May and 25 May 1999) on the seed yield, oil content and fatty acid composition of three safflower (Carthamus tinctorius) cultivars (Yenice 5‐38, Dincer 5‐118 and 5‐154) grown in fields of the research facility of Akdeniz University in Antalya, Turkey. While seed yield, oil content, and palmitic acid, stearic acid, and oleic acid contents decreased, linoleic acid content increased from 50.86 to 55.72 % with delay in planting date. The effect of genotype on fatty acids was greater than that of environment.
Phytotoxic Interference of Ageratum conyzoides with Wheat (Triticum aestivum)
Authors: Singh H. P. , Batish D. R. , Kaur S. , Kohli R. K.
Published: September 2003

A study was conducted to assess the phytotoxicity of Ageratum conyzoides, a weed of cultivated areas, to the growth and establishment of wheat (Triticum aestivum). The lengths of the radicle and coleoptile and the seedling dry weight of wheat were significantly reduced when wheat was grown in field soil previously infested with A. conyzoides, compared to control soil collected from an area devoid of this weed. Even extracts prepared from A. conyzoides soil were inhibitory, indicating the presence of some water‐soluble phytotoxins in the soil. To determine the possible contribution of the weed in releasing these phytotoxins, growth studies involving leaf residues and their extracts and amended soils (prepared by incorporating leaf residues and residue extracts) were also performed on wheat. With all treatments, an inhibitory effect of A. conyzoides was found, compared to respective controls. A significant amount of water‐soluble phytotoxins (the phenolics) was found to be present in the soil infested with A. conyzoides, leaf residues and the amended soils. The amount of phenolics correlated well with growth performance in the respective treatments. This study establishes the phytotoxicity of leaf residues of A. conyzoides to wheat through the release of phenolics into the soil, which may serve as possible tools in establishing its allelopathy.
Plant Regeneration from the Hybridization of Brassica juncea and B. napus Through Embryo Culture
Authors: Zhang G. Q. , Zhou W. J. , Gu H. H. , Song W. J. , Momoh E. J. J.
Published: September 2003

Crosses were made to produce interspecific hybrids between Brassica napus × B. juncea and their reciprocals with the aid of embryo culture techniques. A better response of hybrid embryo culture was obtained from two cross combinations of B. juncea × B. napus (Ames 24521 × Huyou 15 and Vittasso × Zheshuang 72) than from their reciprocals. Embryo culture was more effective in terms of plant regeneration when embryos were cultured in vitro at 15 days after pollination (DAP), while more calli were initiated when embryos were excised and cultured at 10 DAP. A better response was observed on the MS medium with 0.3 mg l−1 naphthylacetic acid (NAA) + 1.5 mg l−1 6‐benzylaminopurine (BAP) and with 0.3 mg l−1 NAA + 2.0 mg l−1 BAP. Callus formation and plant regeneration on these two media reached 55.43 and 26.65 %, and 66.98 and 24.61 %, respectively.
Medium, Explant and Genotype Factors Influencing Shoot Regeneration in Oilseed Brassica spp.
Authors: Tang G. X. , Zhou W. J. , Li H. Z. , Mao B. Z. , He Z. H. , Yoneyama K.
Published: September 2003

The effects of culture media, explants and genotypes on shoot regeneration in oilseed Brassica species were examined in this study. The maximum shoot regeneration frequency was obtained in Murashige and Skoog medium supplemented with 3 mg l−1 6‐benzylaminopurine and 0.15 mg l−1 1‐naphthaleneacetic acid. The addition of 2.5 mg l−1 AgNO3 was very beneficial to shoot regeneration in B. napus and Ag2S2O3 (10 mg l−1) was even superior to AgNO3 (2.5 mg l−1). Explant age, explant type and carbon source also significantly affected shoot regeneration. Four‐day‐old seedlings of cotyledonary explants showed the maximum shoot regeneration frequency and number of shoots per explant. Of the four explants – peduncles, hypocotyls, cotyledons and leaf petioles – cotyledons produced the highest shoot regeneration frequency (56.67 %). Four carbon sources – glucose, maltose, starch and sucrose – were compared for their respective effects on shoot regeneration from cotyledonary explants. Sucrose appeared to be the best carbon source for shoot regeneration with the highest shoot regeneration frequency (76.00 %). Considerable variation in shoot regeneration from cotyledonary explants was observed both between and within Brassica species. The shoot regeneration frequency ranged from 10.00 % for cv. R5 (B. rapa) to 83.61 % for cv. N1 (B. napus). Two B. napus, one B. carinata and one B. juncea cultivars exhibited shoot regeneration frequency higher than 70 %. In terms of the number of shoots produced per explant, B. rapa showed the highest variation, ranging from 5.64 for cv. R3 to 1.33 for cv. R5. Normal plantlets were regenerated from all induced shoots and developed normally. The regenerated plants were fertile and identical with the source plants.
Ocular adnexal lymphoproliferative disease: a series of 73 cases
Authors: McKelvie Penelope A , McNab Alan , Francis Ian C , Fox Richard , O'Day Justin
Published: September 2003

Background: This study involved 73 patients with lymphoproliferative lesions of the ocular adnexa. The lesions were categorized using the Revised European American Lymphoma classification of lymphoid tissues and analysed to determine the frequency and prognostic impact of tumour type, location, stage and patient's age and sex.

Methods: The clinical, histopathological, immunohistochemical and phenotypic analysis by flow cytometry and follow‐up data were studied.

Results: The ocular adnexal lymphoproliferative lesions included 70 lymphomas and six reactive lymphoid hyperplasia. Seventy‐nine per cent had stage IE disease, 4% stage II, 1.5% stage III and 15.5% stage IV. Five patients (7%) had a past history of systemic lymphoma. Major histological types were extranodal marginal zone lymphoma (MZL) in 44 (63%), follicular (FL) in 12 (17%), diffuse large B‐cell (DLBCL) in eight (11%), mantle cell (MCL) in two (3%), B‐cell chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL)/small lymphocytic lymphoma in two (3%), peripheral T‐cell lymphoma (PTCL) one (1.5%) and natural killer cell lymphoma (NKCL) in one (1.5%). Longest survival was seen in those with low‐grade lymphomas (MZL and FL) and worst in PTCL and NKCL. Lymphoma‐related mortality was 2% for MZL, 33% for FL, 38% for DLBCL, and 100% for MCL, PTCL and NKCL. Systemic lymphoma was present prior to, at presentation or at subsequent follow up in 26/68 (39%) of all lymphoma patients, 17% for MZL, 38% for DLBCL, 83% for FL, and 100% for MCL, CLL, PTCL and NKCL.

Conclusion: The majority of ocular adnexal lymphomas were low‐grade B‐cell lymphomas (MZL). Multivariate analysis showed that the only significant independent predictors of all causes of mortality were the histological type of lymphoma and the stage of disease at presentation.
The Auckland Cataract Study: demographic, corneal topographic and ocular biometric parameters
Authors: Riley Andrew F , Grupcheva Christina N , Malik Tahira Y , Craig Jennifer P , McGhee Charles NJ
Published: September 2003

Purpose: To determine patient demographics and the ocular biometric parameters in patients presenting for cataract surgery within the public hospital system, in a defined New Zealand population.

Method: Prospective study of 502 eyes of 488 consecutive patients undergoing cataract surgery. A clinical assessment, including refraction, keratometry (K), A‐scan ultrasound and Orbscan II computerized topography was performed on each eye.

Results: The mean age of the group was 74.9 ± 9.8 years (mean ± SD) with a female predominance (62%). Ethnic origin included 72% European, 8% Maori, 10% Pacific Islander, 4% Asian, 3% Indian and 3% other ethnic origins. The mean Log MAR visual acuity of eyes prior to cataract surgery was 0.88 ± 0.57 (approximately 6/48–1). Corneal topographic (keratometric) maps were classified into five groups: 34% round, 10% oval, 31% symmetrical bow tie, 12% asymmetrical bow tie and 13% irregular. The mean steepest K measurement was 44.1 ± 1.7 D, the median keratometric astigmatism 0.89 D (range 0.0–6.5 D) and the steepest corneal meridian was horizontal in 50% and vertical in 43%. Seven per cent of corneas were spherical. Refraction revealed a mean sphere of 0.0 ± 3.1 D and a mean cylinder of –1.2 (range 0.0–7.5 D). Refractive astigmatism was with‐the‐rule in 15%, against‐the‐rule in 50% and oblique in 15%, with 20% spherical. Axial length was a mean of 23.14 ± 1.03 mm.

Conclusion: Patients presenting for cataract surgery in this study were predominantly elderly, female, of European Caucasian ethnicity and exhibited relatively poor corrected visual acuity in the affected eye. Interestingly, 41% of eyes demonstrated bow‐tie topographic patterns, largely exhibiting with‐the‐rule astigmatism. However, assessment by keratometry or refraction highlighted against‐the‐rule more frequently; this may have implications for combined cataract and astigmatic surgery. The mean axial length was slightly shorter than expected for a group of predominantly European ethnic origin, although the mean refractive error was emmetropic.
An evaluation of the safety and efficacy of botulinum toxin type A (BOTOX) when used to produce a protective ptosis
Authors: Ellis Mark F , Daniell Mark
Published: September 2003

Purpose: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of botulinum toxin type A (BOTOX, Allergan) when used to produce a protective ptosis in patients where a surgical tarsorrhaphy would otherwise be required.

Methods: A total of 21 patients entered into the study. Doses of 2.5 and 5.0 units of BOTOX were injected into the levator palpebrae superioris muscle through the eyelid. The patients were followed daily where practical until a ptosis developed and then monitored 1–2 weekly until the ptosis was resolved. Injections were repeated, if necessary, until the underlying condition had healed.

Results: Ptosis took an average ± SE of 4.0 ± 0.5 days to develop (range 2–8 days). Duration of ptosis was an average ± SE of 46.0 ± 12.1 days (range 1–206 days). The effective dosage was 5 units of BOTOX in 0.1 mL. In 16 patients, the ptosis produced by BOTOX was sufficient to allow the underlying disease to heal and a surgical tarsorrhaphy was avoided. One patient required a surgical tarsorrhaphy and three patients required other surgical intervention to correct the underlying condition. One patient was lost to follow up. Diplopia was seen in five patients but resolved in all cases.

Conclusions: BOTOX was a suitable alternative to a surgical tarsorrhaphy.
Subjectivity and vulnerability: reflections on the foundation of ethical sensibility
Authors: Nortvedt Per
Published: September 2003

This paper investigates the possibility of understanding the rudimentary elements of clinical sensitivity by investigating the works of Edmund Husserl and Emmanuel Levinas on sensibility. Husserl's theory of intentionality offers significant reflections on the role of pre‐reflective and affective intuition as a condition for intentionality and reflective consciousness. These early works of Husserl, in particular his works on the constitution of phenomenological time and subjective time‐consciousness, prove to be an important basis for Levinas’ works on an ethics of alterity and infinite responsibility for the other person. In fact, it is difficult to understand the core of Levinasian ethics, of vulnerability as proximity, of ethical sensitivity as passivity and a suffering for the suffering of another, without understanding the influence from Husserl's work. Crucially, the paper will, on the basis of Levinasian ethics, establish an understanding of sensibility as vulnerability and receptivity that is fundamental also for understanding significant intuitions in clinical nursing. Clinical sensitivity and carefulness in nursing are shaped by the concrete and also bodily expressions of vulnerabilities in a receptivity that is pre‐reflective and pre‐ontological.
Pacing to Prevent Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: ISRAEL CARSTEN W. , HOHNLOSER STEFAN H.
Published: September 2003

Introduction: Pacing has been proposed as a nonpharmacologic treatment option to prevent atrial tachyarrhythmias (ATs) in drug‐refractory patients. This article reviews the current state of pacing to prevent ATs.

Methods and Results: Different pacing modalities have been assessed with regard to their ability to prevent AT: conventional DDDR pacing with elevated lower rate limit, biatrial pacing, dual‐site right atrial pacing, atrial septal pacing, and pacing with the use of dedicated pacing algorithms. Small studies suggest a benefit of conventional pacing for AT prevention in patients with bradycardia, but a randomized trial did not reveal any AT reduction by conventional pacing in patients without bradycardia. AT prevention by biatrial or dual‐site right atrial pacing has been reported in small studies, but randomized trials did not show a clear benefit of these pacing techniques. Small studies showed a reduced AT recurrence rate in patients with septal pacing at the triangle of Koch or at Bachmann's bundle. Two large randomized trials with preventive pacing algorithms showed a significant AT reduction compared to conventional pacing, but this was not confirmed in four trials.

Conclusion: Pacing seems to be able to suppress ATs in a minority of patients; however, prospective identification of responders to different pacing modalities does not appear to be feasible at the present time. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 14, pp. S20‐S26, September 2003, Suppl.)
Mechanical Occlusion of the Left Atrial Appendage
Authors: OMRAN HEYDER , HARDUNG DAVID , SCHMIDT HARALD , HAMMERSTINGL CHRISTOPH , LÜDERITZ BERNDT
Published: September 2003

Introduction: Oral anticoagulation therapy reduces significantly the risk of thromboembolism in patients with atrial fibrillation. However, effective oral anticoagulation therapy is not feasible in all patients. The interventional occlusion of the left atrial appendage may reduce the risk of thromboembolism in the latter patients. The aim of this prospective study was to assess the feasibility, safety, and technical aspects of interventionally occluding the left atrial appendage.

Methods and Results: The left atrial appendage was interventionally occluded with the new PLAATO device in nine patients. Serial transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiographic studies and neurologic assessment were performed prior to and during the procedure, and <48 hours, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year after the procedure. Contraindications to oral anticoagulation were bleeding complications in 6 of 9 cases, cerebral aneurysm in 1, and allergies to warfarin therapy in 2 of 9. Baseline echocardiographic studies demonstrated spontaneous echo contrast grade 3 ± 1, peak emptying velocities of 0.26 ± 0.12 m/sec, and excluded atrial thrombi in all cases. Interventional occlusion was feasible in all cases. One patient had a minor plexus paresis that resolved within 4 weeks after the procedure. Neurologic assessment during a mean follow‐up of 5 ± 4.4 months did not demonstrate any new neurologic complications. Serial echocardiographic assessment excluded the formation of thrombi on the implanted device and demonstrated its complete thrombosis after 6 months. One patient developed a minimal pericardial effusion 48 hours after the procedure that resolved within 3 months.

Conclusion: Interventional occlusion of the left atrial appendage is feasible and safe in patients with atrial fibrillation and contraindications to oral anticoagulation therapy. Furthermore, no neurologic complications, development of atrial thrombi, or thrombus formation on the device were observed during follow‐up. Future prospective studies are needed to clarify the long‐term treatment effect of this new technique. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 14, pp. S56‐S59, September 2003, Suppl.)
Pure Class III Agents for Prevention of Sudden Cardiac Death
Authors: PRATT CRAIG M.
Published: September 2003

The results of clinical trials in postmyocardial infarction patients using type I antiarrhythmic drugs have been disappointing. There was optimism that IKr blockers might result in a reduction in sudden cardiac death in postinfarct population. Four trials are reviewed here, and the results are variable. The four drugs reviewed—d,l‐sotalol, d‐sotalol, dofetilide, and azimilide—all share IKr‐blocking properties. In addition, d,l‐sotalol is a beta‐blocker and azimilide is an IKs blocker. The primary uses of d,l‐sotalol, dofetilide, and, if approved, azimilide are currently for treatment of atrial fibrillation. Thus, the mortality trials reviewed here are primarily used as support of safety in high‐risk patients, because none has achieved a mortality reduction in postinfarction patients. These trials play pivotal roles for regulatory approval of these drugs for use in atrial fibrillation. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 14, pp. S82‐S86, September 2003, Suppl.)
What is Right and What is Wrong About Evidence‐Based Medicine?
Authors: JULIAN DESMOND G.
Published: September 2003

Practice should, as much as possible, be based on good science. Randomized clinical trials can provide the best evidence, but they have serious limitations. First, many clinical situations, such as cardiac arrest and pain relief, do not lend themselves to randomization. Second, trials seldom can study the effects seen in different subgroups, nor can the results always be extrapolated from the restricted groups of patients recruited into trials. Finally, there is publication bias: the failure to report “negative” trials and the biased presentation of results by investigators and sponsors. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 14, pp. S2‐S5, September 2003, Suppl.)
Use of the Implantable Loop Recorder in Evaluation of Patients with Unexplained Syncope
Authors: KRAHN ANDREW D. , KLEIN GEORGE J. , SKANES ALLAN C. , YEE RAYMOND
Published: September 2003

Syncope is a complex symptom with multiple potential etiologies that can be difficult to establish. The major obstacles to diagnosis are the periodic and unpredictable nature of events and the high spontaneous remission rate. Short‐term ECG monitoring often is unproductive when initial noninvasive testing is negative due to the low probability of recurrence during the brief monitoring period. Implantable loop recorders extend the ability to monitor cardiac patients, enhancing the diagnostic yield to as high as 85% in difficult to diagnose syncope. Several recent studies suggest that prolonged monitoring with an implantable loop recorder has a role in patients with syncope and conduction disturbances, negative tilt testing, and unexplained seizures, and may be superior to conventional testing with tilt and electrophysiologic studies. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 14, pp. S70‐S73, September 2003, Suppl.)
Recent Advances in Drug Therapy for Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: WIJFFELS MAURITS C.E.F. , CRIJNS HARRY J.G.M.
Published: September 2003

Despite the major new insights into our knowledge of the mechanisms underlying initiation and perpetuation of atrial fibrillation (AF) gained in the last decade, the treatment of this common arrhythmia remains unsatisfactory in many patients. Although several new treatment modalities (e.g., internal cardioversion, pulmonary vein ablation, preventive pacing) have been developed, pharmacologic therapy remains the first‐line therapy in most patients with AF. As illustrated by recent trials comparing rhythm control and rate control, current antifibrillatory drugs are hampered by a relatively low success rate in maintaining long‐term sinus rhythm and the occurrence of proarrhythmic and other adverse events. This article discusses currently available antiarrhythmic drugs for rhythm and rate control, with special emphasis on more recently developed drugs and drugs still under development. Selective blockers of atrial ion channels (IKur and IK.ACh), multi‐ion channel blockers, and selective A1‐adenosine receptor antagonists are examples of the newer antiarrhythmic drugs that are expected to be more effective and safer than those currently available. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 14, pp. S40‐S47, September 2003, Suppl.)
Role of Amiodarone in the Era of the Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator
Authors: DORIAN PAUL , MANGAT IQWAL
Published: September 2003

Amiodarone is one of the most frequently used antiarrhythmic drugs in clinical practice. In patients with atrial fibrillation, in whom rhythm control is judged desirable, amiodarone is the most effective therapy. Amiodarone effectively prevents atrial fibrillation and may improve quality of life, but there is no evidence that it decreases mortality or severe morbidity in atrial fibrillation. In patients at risk for life‐threatening ventricular arrhythmias, amiodarone may decrease mortality to a small degree, but the evidence for this benefit is incomplete. Patients with implantable cardioverter defibrillators frequently require antiarrhythmic drug therapy, especially to treat electrical storm. Amiodarone is useful in these patients; however, it may increase defibrillation thresholds in some patients. In patients with out‐of‐hospital DC shock‐resistant VF, amiodarone is the most effective antiarrhythmic drug available to assist in resuscitation. Amiodarone is a complicated drug, and its optimal use requires careful patient surveillance with respect to potential adverse effects. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 14, pp. S78‐S81, September 2003, Suppl.)
Sudden Death in the Community
Authors: WELLENS HEIN J.J. , GORGELS ANTON P. , De MUNTER HANS
Published: September 2003

About one fifth of all deaths occur suddenly and unexpectedly, often as the first manifestation of heart disease. Several tests have been developed during the past 2 decades for risk stratification of such an event, but only a minority of victims can be identified as being at high risk before sudden death occurs. Improving the results of out‐of‐hospital resuscitation attempts is of crucial importance. Use of the automated external defibrillator is rapidly increasing worldwide. However, the defibrillator must be used within minutes after the onset of cardiac arrest, and rapid recognition and localization of the victim are essential. The development of a device that constantly monitors vital signs and can diagnose cardiac arrest, generate an alarm, and transmit the location of the victim could be an important step in improving the results of cardiac resuscitation. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 14, pp. S104‐S107, September 2003, Suppl.)