bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Massive mortalities of the black bream Acanthopagrus butcheri (Sparidae) in two normally-closed estuaries, following extreme increases in salinity
Authors: Hoeksema S.D. , Chuwen B.M. , Potter I.C.
Published: June 2006

Salinities in some normally-closed estuaries in the central south coast of Western Australia are now frequently becoming highly elevated. This is due to: (1) high evaporation rates in water volumes that, by summer, are already low as a result of atypically dry winters; and (2) increased salt run-off following vegetation clearing in the catchments. A few black bream (Acanthopagrus butcheri) died in the basin and lower reaches of the main tributary of Culham inlet when salinities reached ∼ 77 and 67, respectively, and an estimated 1.3 million black bream died in the tributary during the next two months when salinities continued to increase. All black bream in the basin and the lower reaches of the tributary of another estuary were apparently killed when salinities reached ∼ 83–85. It is proposed that A. butcheri becomes stressed at salinities of 60 and typically die before they reach ∼ 85. In both estuaries, a rock bar in the tributary prevented black bream from moving to refugia in upstream areas where salinities were lower.
The first identified winter feeding ground of fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus) in the Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Canese Simonepietro , Cardinali Andrea , Fortuna Caterina Maria , Giusti Michela , Lauriano Giancarlo , Salvati Eva , Greco Silvestro
Published: June 2006

The presence of fin whales in the Mediterranean Sea has been documented since ancient times. In spite of this, reliable information on their ecology and distribution is limited to the north-western part of the basin. Recent genetic studies have demonstrated that Mediterranean fin whales comprise a separate population with very limited gene flow with their North Atlantic co-specifics. Although both published and anecdotal information reports their presence in the south central Mediterranean during winter, there is no information on habitat use. In February 2004, a 14-day boat survey was carried out in the waters surrounding the island of Lampedusa, where fin whales occur at this time of the year. A total of 20 fin whale groups (average group size two animals) were encountered. In each encounter the animals were engaged in surface feeding activity. From plankton samples and underwater video, the prey species was identified as the Euphausiid, Nyctiphanes couchi. The information obtained suggests that this area may be an important winter feeding ground for fin whales. The results represent significant new information on fin whale ecology in the Mediterranean, with associated conservation and management implications.
The myth of structured obsolescence
Authors: HORNSBY DAVID
Published: June 2006

Using data from an obsolescent dialect situation in northern France, this paper questions the view that dedialectalization is a process of level-by-level attrition which leaves a linguistic residue in Regional French (the ‘Structured Obsolescence Hypothesis’). Comparison of dialect index scores for a number of variables reveals significant variation in rates of attrition within levels, with some phonological and morphological variants showing greater vitality than others, but no consistent relationship between levels as the model would predict. An alternative model is proposed, based on the relative learnability of different variants, and it is further argued that rejection of the Structured Obsolescence Hypothesis calls some other assumptions about Regional French into question, notably the view that it can be considered an intermediate variety between dialect and standard, and that it is necessarily ephemeral in nature.
Locally linear neurofuzzy modeling and prediction of geomagnetic disturbances based on solar wind conditions
Authors: Sharifie Javad , Lucas Caro , Araabi Babak N.
Published: June 2006

Disturbance storm time index (Dst) is nonlinearly related to solar wind data. In this paper, Dst past values, Dst derivative, past values of southward interplanetary magnetic field, and the square root of dynamic pressure are used as inputs for modeling and prediction of the Dst index, especially during extreme events. The geoeffective solar wind parameters are selected depending on the physical background of the geomagnetic storm procedure and physical models. A locally linear neurofuzzy model with a progressive tree construction learning algorithm is applied as a powerful tool for nonlinear modeling of Dst index on the basis of its past values and solar wind parameters. The result for modeling and prediction of several intense storms shows that the geomagnetic disturbance Dst index based on geoeffective parameters is a nonlinear model that could be considered as the nonlinear extension of empirical linear physical models. The method is applied for prediction of some geomagnetic storms. Obtained results show that using the proposed method, the predicted values of several extreme storms are highly correlated with observed values. In addition, prediction of the main phase of many storms shows a good match with observed data, which constitutes an appropriate approach for solar storm alerting to vulnerable industries.
Calibration of SIOM-5FW film in the range of 0.1–4keV
Authors: Chenais-Popovics C. , Reverdin C. , Ioannou I.
Published: June 2006

The SIOM-5FW film produced for the sub-keV x-ray detection range was calibrated here in a wide energy range (0.1–4keV). A single set of parameters valid in the whole measured energy range was determined for the calibration of the Shangai 5F (SIOM-5FW) film from a parametric fit of the data. The sensitivity of the SIOM-5FW film was measured to be four times lower than that of the Kodak DEF film at 2.5keV photon energy. Modeling of the DEF and SIOM-5FW films provides a good comparison of their sensitivity in the 0.1–10keV range.
On entropy production for controlled Markovian evolution
Authors: Pavon Michele , Ticozzi Francesco
Published: June 2006

We consider thermodynamic systems with finitely many degrees of freedom and subject to an external control action. We derive some basic results on the dependence of the relative entropy production rate on the controlling force. Applications to macromolecular cooling and to controlling the convergence to equilibrium rate are sketched. Analogous results are derived for closed and open n-level quantum systems.
Oxidation of carbon monoxide on Rh(111): A density functional theory study
Authors: Zhang A. H. , Zhu Jing , Duan W. H.
Published: June 2006

The adsorption of CO on the oxygen precovered Rh(111) and the oxidation of CO are investigated with density functional theory. The preferred adsorption site and the possible reaction channel are determined. The experimentally observed inertness of the (2×2)-O–CO structure is explained by the reaction barrier and the stability of the reactants.
Automatic tracing of interference fringes using Fourier filtering, local averaging, and local-scan-type determination
Authors: Anand Arun , Chhaniwal Vani K.
Published: June 2006

Interferograms are made by interfering wave fronts and hence contain important information about them. Analysis of interferograms requires the identification of all the fringes and their extrema. Here an algorithm for computer tracing of interference fringes is described. The method uses a Fourier filter for removing high frequency noise, a local averaging for binarization of images not having uniform intensity distribution, scanning the interferogram locally both horizontally and vertically to determine the type of the scan, local application of simultaneous horizontal and vertical scans for tracing of complicated fringe patterns, and removal of the noise from the traces by determining the number of connected pixels. The proposed algorithm was found to yield good result even for high noise images.
Energy-tunable transmission x-ray microscope for differential contrast imaging with near 60nm resolution tomography
Authors: Yin Gung-Chian , Tang Mau-Tsu , Song Yen-Fang , Chen Fu-Rong , Liang Keng S. , Duewer Frederick W. , Yun Wenbing , Ko Chen-Hao , Shieh Han-Ping D.
Published: June 2006

An energy-tunable transmission hard x-ray microscope with close to 60nm spatial resolution in three dimensions (3D) has been developed. With a cone beam illumination, a zone plate of 50nm outmost zone width, a stable mechanical design, and software feedback, we obtained tomographic data sets that are close to 60nm spatial resolution. Meanwhile, the element specific imaging was also obtained by a differential absorption contrast technique used below and above the absorption of the element. Examples of advanced intergraded circuit devices are used to demonstrate the element selectivity and spatial resolution in 3D of the microscope.
Form birefringence of oxidized porous silicon
Authors: Golovan L. A. , Ivanov D. A. , Melnikov V. A. , Timoshenko V. Yu. , Zheltikov A. M. , Kashkarov P. K. , Petrov G. I. , Yakovlev V. V.
Published: June 2006

A network of preferentially oriented pores is shown to induce anisotropy of linear and nonlinear optical properties of oxidized porous silicon (OPS) films. Although the x-ray diffraction indicates the presence of amorphous phase in OPS samples, the near-infrared and visible transmission measurements reveal a strong in-plane anisotropy exceeding that for the crystalline quartz. This anisotropy modifies dramatically polarization properties of the nonlinear optical properties resulting in a strong anisotropy of the third-harmonic signal generated from these films.
Three-way electrical gating characteristics of metallic Y-junction carbon nanotubes
Authors: Park J. , Daraio C. , Jin S. , Bandaru P. R. , Gaillard J. , Rao A. M.
Published: June 2006

Y-junction based carbon nanotube (CNT) transistors exhibit interesting switching behaviors, and have the structural advantage that the electrical gate for current modulation can be formed by any of the three constituent branches. In this letter, we report on the gating characteristics of metallic Y-CNT morphologies. By measuring the output conductance and transconductance we conclude that the efficiency and gain depend on the branch diameter and is electric field controlled. Based on these principles, we propose a design for a Y-junction based CNT switching device, with tunable electrical properties.
Embedded growth mode of thermodynamically stable metallic nanoparticles on III-V semiconductors
Authors: Schultz B. D. , Choi S. G. , Palmstrøm C. J.
Published: June 2006

The epitaxial growth of ErSb on GaSb(001) surfaces occurs by an embedded growth mode where stable nanometer sized islands are nucleated within the semiconductor via a displacement reaction on the surface. The ErSb islands extend up to four atomic layers beneath the surface before growing laterally and coalescing into a continuous film. The growth mode is not governed by epitaxial strain or surface, bulk, and interfacial energy differences, instead the surface morphologies resulting from this growth mode are shown to depend on structural similarities, thermodynamics, and diffusion.
The NADPH Oxidase NOX4 Drives Cardiac Differentiation: Role in Regulating Cardiac Transcription Factors and MAP Kinase Activation
Authors: Li Jian , Stouffs Michael , Serrander Lena , Banfi Botond , Bettiol Esther , Charnay Yves , Steger Klaus , Krause Karl-Heinz , Jaconi Marisa E.
Published: June 2006

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by the NOX family of NADPH oxidases have been described to act as second messengers regulating cell growth and differentiation. However, such a function has hitherto not been convincingly demonstrated. We investigated the role of NOX-derived ROS in cardiac differentiation using mouse embryonic stem cells. ROS scavengers prevented the appearance of spontaneously beating cardiac cells within embryoid bodies. Down-regulation of NOX4, the major NOX isoform present during early stages of differentiation, suppressed cardiogenesis. This was rescued by a pulse of low concentrations of hydrogen peroxide 4 d before spontaneous beating appears. Mechanisms of ROS-dependent signaling included p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation and nuclear translocation of the cardiac transcription factor myocyte enhancer factor 2C (MEF2C). Our results provide first molecular evidence that the NOX family of NADPH oxidases regulate vertebrate developmental processes.
The Nef Protein of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Is a Broad-Spectrum Modulator of Chemokine Receptor Cell Surface Levels That Acts Independently of Classical Motifs for Receptor Endocytosis and GαiSignaling
Authors: Michel Nico , Ganter Kerstin , Venzke Stephanie , Bitzegeio Julia , Fackler Oliver T. , Keppler Oliver T.
Published: June 2006

Chemokine receptors (CKRs) are important physiological mediators of immune defense, inflammatory responses, and angiogenesis, and they have also been implicated in a number of viral disease processes. Here, we report that the Nef protein of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) reduces cell surface levels of eight different members of the CC- and CXC-family of CKRs by up to 92%. This broad-range activity required specific elements in HIVSF2Nef, including the proline-rich motif P73P76P79P82as well as the acidic cluster motif E66E67E68E69, and Nef expression induced a marked perinuclear accumulation of CKRs. Surprisingly, receptor mutagenesis demonstrated that the cytoplasmic tail of CCR5 and CXCR4, which is critical for basal and ligand-mediated endocytosis, was completely dispensable for this Nef activity. In contrast, triple-mutation of the highly conserved DRY motif in the second intracellular CKR loop abolished the Nef-mediated down-regulation of CXCR4 independently of this motif’s role in CKR binding to heterotrimeric G proteins and signaling via the Gαisubunit. Thus, we identify the lentiviral pathogenicity factor Nef as a unique and broad-range modulator of CKR cell surface levels. Nef uses a mechanism that is distinct from well-established pathways orchestrating CKR metabolism and offers an interesting tool to study the multifaceted biology of CKRs.
The Intraflagellar Transport Protein IFT20 Is Associated with the Golgi Complex and Is Required for Cilia Assembly
Authors: Follit John A. , Tuft Richard A. , Fogarty Kevin E. , Pazour Gregory J.
Published: June 2006

Eukaryotic cilia are assembled via intraflagellar transport (IFT) in which large protein particles are motored along ciliary microtubules. The IFT particles are composed of at least 17 polypeptides that are thought to contain binding sites for various cargos that need to be transported from their site of synthesis in the cell body to the site of assembly in the cilium. We show here that the IFT20 subunit of the particle is localized to the Golgi complex in addition to the basal body and cilia where all previous IFT particle proteins had been found. In living cells, fluorescently tagged IFT20 is highly dynamic and moves between the Golgi complex and the cilium as well as along ciliary microtubules. Strong knock down of IFT20 in mammalian cells blocks ciliary assembly but does not affect Golgi structure. Moderate knockdown does not block cilia assembly but reduces the amount of polycystin-2 that is localized to the cilia. This work suggests that IFT20 functions in the delivery of ciliary membrane proteins from the Golgi complex to the cilium.
Centella asiatica (L.) Leaf Extract Treatment During the Growth Spurt Period Enhances Hippocampal CA3 Neuronal Dendritic Arborization in Rats
Authors: Mohandas Rao K. G. , Muddanna Rao S. , Gurumadhva Rao S.
Published: June 2006

Centella asiatica (CeA) is a creeping plant growing in damp places in India and other Asian countries. The leaves of CeA are used for memory enhancement in the Ayurvedic system of medicine, an alternative system of medicine in India. In this study, we have investigated the effect during the rat growth spurt period of CeA fresh leaf extract treatment on the dendritic morphology of hippocampal CA3 neurons, one of the regions of the brain concerned with learning and memory. Neonatal rat pups (7 days old) were fed with 2, 4 or 6 ml kg−1 body weight of fresh leaf extract of CeA for 2, 4 or 6 weeks. After the treatment period the rats were killed, their brains were removed and the hippocampal neurons were impregnated with silver nitrate (Golgi staining). Hippocampal CA3 neurons were traced using a camera lucida, and dendritic branching points (a measure of dendritic arborization) and intersections (a measure of dendritic length) were quantified. These data were compared with data for age‐matched control rats. The results showed a significant increase in the dendritic length (intersections) and dendritic branching points along the length of both apical and basal dendrites in rats treated with 4 and 6 ml kg−1 body weight per day of CeA for longer periods of time (i.e. 4 and 6 weeks). We conclude that the constituents/active principles present in CeA fresh leaf extract have a neuronal dendritic growth stimulating property; hence, the extract can be used for enhancing neuronal dendrites in stress and neurodegenerative and memory disorders.
Two Methodological Worlds Apart? Praises and Critiques from a European Comparativist
Authors: Rihoux Benoît
Published: June 2006

Social scientists who strive to reflect on their research “while they're doing it” (Becker 1998) live in very fortunate times. On the one hand, it seems as if an increasing number of scholars want to do a little more than simply apply ready-made recipes. On the other hand, a few key volumes have recently been published that move beyond ready-made recipes. In my personal top three, I would most probably place Mahoney and Rueschemeyer (2003), George and Bennett (2005), and—last but not least—the volume discussed in this symposium. What distinguishes Rethinking Social Inquiry (RSI) from the two other volumes, in my view, is that it has a broader agenda and hence a broader ambition.
A role for the catalytic ribonucleoprotein RNase P in RNA polymerase III transcription
Authors: Reiner Robert , Ben-Asouli Yitzhak , Krilovetzky Ilana , Jarrous Nayef
Published: June 2006

The physical and functional links between transcription and processing machines of tRNA in the cell remain essentially unknown. We show here that whole HeLa extracts depleted of ribonuclease P (RNase P), a tRNA-processing ribonucleoprotein, exhibit a severe deficiency in RNA polymerase (Pol) III transcription of tRNA and other small, noncoding RNA genes. However, transcription can be restored by the addition of a purified holoenzyme. Targeted cleavage of the H1 RNA moiety of RNase P alters enzyme specificity and diminishes Pol III transcription. Moreover, inactivation of RNase P by targeting its protein subunits for destruction using small interfering RNAs inhibits Pol III function and Pol III-directed promoter activity in the cell. RNase P exerts its role in transcription through association with Pol III and chromatin of active tRNA and 5S rRNA genes. The results demonstrate a role for RNase P in Pol III transcription and suggest that transcription and early processing of tRNA may be coordinated.
Multi‐center assessment of the Total Neuropathy Score for chemotherapy‐induced peripheral neurotoxicity
Authors: Cavaletti Guido , Jann Stefano , Pace Andrea , Plasmati Rosaria , Siciliano Gabriele , Briani Chiara , Cocito Dario , Padua Luca , Ghiglione Elisabetta , Manicone Mariagrazia , Giussani Giuditta ,   for the Italian NETox Group
Published: June 2006

Abstract  The aim of this multi‐center study was to assess with reduced versions of the Total Neuropathy Score (TNS), the severity of chemotherapy‐induced peripheral neurotoxicity (CIPN), and to compare the results with those obtained with common toxicity scales. An unselected population of 428 cancer patients was evaluated at 11 different centers using a composite (clinical + neurophysiological, TNSr) or clinical (TNSc) examination and with the National Cancer Institute – Common Toxicity Criteria (NCI‐CTC) 2.0 and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) scores. A highly significant correlation was demonstrated between the TNSr and the NCI‐CTC 2.0 and ECOG scores; but the TNSr evaluation was more accurate in view of the more extended score range. Also, the simpler and faster TNSc (based only on the clinical neurological examination) allowed to grade accurately CIPN and correlated with the common toxicity scores. The correlation tended to be closer when the sensory items were considered, but also the TNSr motor items, which were not specifically investigated in any other previous study, significantly correlated with the results of the common toxicity scales. In conclusion, this study suggests that the TNSr is a reliable tool for accurately grading and reporting CIPN, with the additional and so far unique support of a formal comparison with known and widely used common toxicity scales. The TNSc is a valid alternative if neurophysiological examination is not feasible. The longer time needed to calculate the TNSr and TNSc in comparison to the ECOG or the NCI‐CTC 2.0 scales is offset by the more detailed knowledge of the CIPN characteristics.
Nerve injuries following intramuscular injections: a clinical and neurophysiological study from Northwest India
Authors: Pandian Jeyaraj Durai , Bose Smirti , Daniel Vinita , Singh Yashpal , Abraham Alexander P.
Published: June 2006

Abstract  In developing countries, injections are frequently used to treat common ailments. Intramuscular injections (IMI) may damage peripheral nerves at the site of injection. Our objectives were to study the clinical features, neurophysiological findings, and outcome in patients with nerve injuries (NI) following IMI and to determine the factors affecting prognosis. We conducted a retrospective review of patients with NI following IMI, who were referred to our Neurophysiology Laboratory at Christian Medical College, Ludhiana, India, between January 1990 to December 2003. There were 36 (55%) patients with sciatic nerve palsy, 29 (44%) patients with radial nerve injury, and 1 (1%) patient with posterior femoral cutaneous nerve injury. In 57 (86%) patients, the IMI were given by uncertified medical practitioners. Needle electromyography (EMG) was analyzed in 36 patients (≥60 days after onset). In 12 (33%) patients, there was EMG evidence of axonal damage with reinnervation, while in the other 24 (67%) patients, there was axonal damage without reinnervation. Only 18 (28%) patients had a good recovery. In conclusion, NI following IMI is a preventable iatrogenic hazard, which carries a poor prognosis.
Nurse intention to remain employed: understanding and strengthening determinants
Authors: Tourangeau Ann E. , Cranley Lisa A.
Published: June 2006

Aim.  This paper reports a study testing a hypothesized model of the determinants of nurse intention to remain employed in current hospitals of employment.

Background.  Previous research has shown that stronger nurse intention to remain employed is associated with higher job satisfaction, higher organizational commitment, higher perceived manager support, lower burnout, higher work group cohesion, being older, having more years of nursing experience and having lower levels of education.

Methods.  A descriptive survey design was adopted. Over 13,000 Ontario, Canada nurses were invited to complete a mailed survey between February and May 2003. The Ontario Nurse Survey includes instruments and items measuring job satisfaction, burnout, professional nursing practice environment, demographic characteristics of nurse respondents and items about intention to remain employed. Two multiple regression models, one including all variables and the other using a stepwise method, were used to test the proposed model.

Results.  Regression models explained 34% of variance in nurse intention to remain employed. The strongest predictors were nurse age, overall nurse job satisfaction and years of employment in the current hospital. Although the proposed model hypothesized six categories of predictors of intention to remain employed, only four of these were statistically significant determinants of nurse intention to remain: job satisfaction, personal characteristics of nurses, work group cohesion and collaboration, and organizational commitment of nurses. The other two categories of predictors, nurse burnout and nurse manager ability and support, may be predictors of job satisfaction and have indirect effects on intention to remain employed that are mediated through job satisfaction.

Conclusion.  Possible strategies to strengthen predictors of intention to remain employed include employment practices that reflect moral integrity, incorporate clear communication systems, maximize employee involvement in decision‐making, promote praise and recognition, and establish a shared vision and goals.
Effectiveness of continuing education programmes in nursing: literature review
Authors: Griscti Odette , Jacono John
Published: June 2006

Aim. The aim of this paper is to review the literature on what facilitates or inhibits continuing education in nursing and to identify ways to make continuing education more effective.

Background. Healthcare professionals have always been encouraged to update their knowledge and maintain clinical competence. The rapid changes currently taking place within healthcare systems have increased the pressure from direct care providers, professional bodies and the general public for nurses to engage in continuing education programmes. Despite a growing body of empirical research on this topic, the effectiveness and impact of continuing education remains underexplored.

Method. A literature search was conducted in January 2005 using CINAHL, Medline, the Cochrane databases and the Internet. Keywords used were: ‘continuing education’, ‘professional development’, ‘viability of continuing education/professional development programmes’, ‘evaluation of continuing education/professional development programmes’ and ‘effectiveness of continuing education/professional development programmes’. No date restrictions were imposed.

Results. Factors that facilitate the implementation of continuing education in nursing arise from individual, professional and organizational perspectives. While the philosophy behind continuing education is to encourage nurses to become lifelong learners, the learning method chosen for such programmes is often didactic in nature, as opposed to encouraging nurses to take initiative and direct their own learning. Continuing education is intended to ensure healthcare practitioners’ knowledge is current, but it is difficult to determine if those who attend these courses are implementing what they have learnt.

Conclusion. To make continuing education programmes more effective, nurses need to have a more participatory role in their learning. A concerted effort should be made to make continuing education attainable and realistic.
Predictors of maternal sensitivity during the early postpartum period
Authors: Shin Hyunjeong , Park Young‐Joo , Kim Mi Ja
Published: June 2006

Aim.  This paper reports a study examining the relationship of maternal sensitivity to maternal identity, social support, maternal–fetal attachment and demographic variables.

Background.  Maternal sensitivity is a mother's ability to perceive and interpret accurately her infant's signals and communications, and then respond appropriately. It is one of the major influencing factors of mother–infant attachment, and needs to be promoted for effective mother–infant interaction. However, limited information is available on the factors that influence postpartum maternal sensitivity. The study was guided by Roy's adaptation model.

Methods.  A cross‐sectional, descriptive design was used. A convenience sample of 196 Korean mothers within 6 weeks of delivery were recruited during July–November 2003 and completed a self‐report questionnaire. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics and stepwise multiple regression analysis.

Results.  We found that maternal–fetal attachment, self‐identity as a mother, mother's employment status, identification with her baby, support from others, and infant's gestational age at birth were statistically significant predictors of maternal sensitivity postpartum. These variables explained 60% of the variance in maternal sensitivity.

Conclusion.  Providing social support, enhancing maternal identity, and facilitating maternal–fetal attachment in the antepartum period are recommended to improve postpartum maternal sensitivity. Also, in future research, a path‐type model or structural equation model including other variables, such as postnatal depression, needs to be developed and tested for optimal adaptation to becoming a mother.
Putting a puzzle together: making spirituality meaningful for nursing using an evolving theoretical framework
Authors: Miner‐Williams Denise
Published: June 2006

Aims and objectives.  This paper addresses the need for a practical understanding of spirituality in nursing by means of a generic definition of spirituality, an emerging theoretical framework, and some general practice guidelines.

Background.  Spirituality is being addressed more frequently in nursing literature, but there is still lacking a professional understanding of the phenomenon that is useful as a basis for practice and research.

Conclusion.  The history of spirituality in nursing is recognized, and then its role in peoples’ and patients’ lives, health and healing is examined. Spirituality is clarified through its various definitions in the literature, and identification of component concepts: connectedness, meaning, transcendence, values and beliefs, energy and emotion. A working definition and the concepts are brought together into a framework. Guidelines for how to incorporate spirituality into practice are presented.

Relevance to clinical practice.  With this understanding of spirituality by means of a clarifying definition, a theoretical framework and six general guidelines, nurses may be better equipped to incorporate spirituality into their practice. This will fulfil professional and accrediting mandates and, more importantly, provide more holistic, ethical and balanced care for patients.
Death the great leveller? Towards a transcultural spirituality of dying and bereavement
Authors: Holloway Margaret
Published: June 2006

Aims and objectives.  This paper aims to provide a critical engagement with the subject of transcultural spirituality and nursing practice in the context of dying and bereavement.

Background.  There has been considerable interest in the subject of spirituality over the past decade, and a particular association between the study of death and the study of spirituality. The nursing literature has been at the forefront of these developments amongst health and social care professionals. Some of this literature has begun to address the issues raised for culturally competent practice and the significance of patients’ belief systems in the diverse cultural contexts with which nurses must engage in contemporary health care. However, the author argues that understanding of the range of contemporary spiritualities and transcultural practice is at an early stage.

Methods.  Transcultural spirituality is explored through a critical review of the literature, including the author's own published research on spiritual and philosophical issues in death, dying and bereavement.

Conclusion.  The conclusion is drawn that some common themes and approaches can be found which offer a framework to guide nursing practice with the individual patient and family.

Relevance to clinical practice.  In the absence of guidance, nurses struggle with implementing spiritual care in the fluid and complex context of contemporary spiritualities and frequently resort to broad categorizations. This paper opens up a way of connecting with the unique spiritual position of each patient.
What are the professional and logistic demands to appropriately follow patients with an implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator?
Authors: SCHAER B. A. , STICHERLING C. , OSSWALD S.
Published: June 2006

Objectives.  To determine events during follow‐up of patients with implantable cardioverter‐defibrillators (ICD) and the specific experience cardiologists need for trouble‐shooting.

Design.  Prospective evaluation of all patient visits in an outpatient clinic.

Setting.  University hospital, single centre performing ICD controls in a region of 1.5 Mio inhabitants.

Subjects.  A total of 351 patients with 1118 consecutive visits during 14 months.

Interventions.  Classification of events according to predefined training levels.

Main outcome measurements.  Skill levels A: simple visit, e.g. for switching the device ‘off’. B: normal visit, no further measures taken (no device reprogramming), even though the patient might have experienced ICD interventions. C: complex visit, electrophysiologist actively involved. Correlation of these levels with timing (routine, emergency on/off office hours) and reason of visits.

Results.  Seventy‐six per cent of visits were scheduled routine visits, 5% performed within 24 h because of shocks, 19% performed for other reasons (shock tests; switching the device ‘off/on’; reported dizziness, syncope, palpitations without ICD interventions). Required skill levels were A in 44 (4%), B in 796 (71%) and C in 278 (25%) visits. Emergency visits were more often classified as level C (60%) than regular visits (20%), Skill level C was more often encountered during emergency (30%) than during regular visits (6%) (both P = 0.001).

Conclusions.  Our study suggests that for standard follow‐up in patients without obvious problems, a cardiologist might be sufficient, whereas presentations due to/with clinical problems most likely will need the expertise of an electrophysiologist.
Differential Role of Corticotrophin‐Releasing Factor Receptor Types 1 and 2 in Stress‐Induced Suppression of Pulsatile Luteinising Hormone Secretion in the Female Rat
Authors: Li X. F. , Bowe J. E. , Kinsey‐Jones J. S. , Brain S. D. , Lightman S. L. , O'Byrne K. T.
Published: June 2006

Corticotrophin‐releasing factor (CRF) plays a pivotal role in stress‐induced suppression of the gonadotrophin‐releasing hormone pulse generator. We have previously shown that type 2 CRF receptors (CRF2) mediate restraint stress‐induced suppression of luteinising hormone (LH) pulses in the rat. The present study aimed: (i) to determine whether type 1 CRF receptors (CRF1) are also involved in this response to restraint and (ii) to investigate the differential involvement of CRF1 and CRF2 in the suppression of LH pulses in response to the metabolic perturbation of insulin‐induced hypoglycemia and the innate immunological challenge of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Ovariectomised rats with oestrogen replacement were implanted with intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) and intravenous (i.v.) cannulae. Blood samples (25 µl) were collected every 5 min for 5 h for LH measurement. After 2 h of controlled blood sampling, rats were either exposed to restraint (1 h) or injected intravenously with insulin (0.25 IU/kg) or LPS (5 µg/kg). All three stressors suppressed LH pulses. The CRF1 antagonist SSR125543Q (11.5 µmol/rat i.v., 30 min before stressor) blocked the inhibitory response to restraint, but not hypoglycaemia or LPS stress. In addition to its effect on restraint, the CRF2 antagonist astressin2‐B (28 nmol/rat i.c.v., 10 min before insulin or LPS) blocked hypoglycaemia or LPS stress‐induced suppression of LH pulses. These results suggest that hypoglycaemia and LPS stress‐induced LH suppression involves activation of CRF2 while restraint stress‐induced inhibition of LH pulses involves both CRF1 and CRF2.
Predicting leaf‐level fluxes of O3 and NO2: the relative roles of diffusion and biochemical processes
Authors: ELLER ALLYSON S. D. , SPARKS JED P.
Published: June 2006

Pollutants like O3 and NO2 enter leaves through the stomata and cause damage during reactions with components of biological cell membranes. The steady‐state flux rates of these gases into the leaf are determined by a series of physical and biochemical resistances including stomatal aperture, reactions occurring within the cell wall and the ability of the leaf to remove the products of apoplastic reactions. In the present study, multiple regression models incorporating stomatal conductance, apoplastic and symplastic ascorbate concentrations, and nitrate reductase (NR) activities were generated to explain the observed variations in leaf‐level flux rates of O3 and NO2. These measurements were made on the plant Catharanthus roseus (Madagascar periwinkle). The best‐fit model explaining NO2 flux included stomatal conductance, apoplastic ascorbate and NR activity. This model explained 89% of the variation in observed leaf fluxes and suggested physical resistances, reaction between NO2 and apoplastic ascorbate, and the removal rate of nitrate (generated by reactions of NO2 and water) from the apoplast all play controlling roles in NO2 flux to leaves. O3 flux was best explained by stomatal conductance and symplastic ascorbate explaining 66% of the total variation in leaf flux. Both models demonstrate the importance of measuring processes other than stomatal conductance to explain steady‐state leaf‐level fluxes of pollutant gases.
Steroid‐sparing effect of subcutaneous SQ‐standardised specific immunotherapy in moderate and severe house dust mite allergic asthmatics
Authors: Blumberga G. , Groes L. , Haugaard L. , Dahl R.
Published: June 2006

Background:  The present study evaluated the steroid‐sparing effect of subcutaneous SQ‐standardized specific immunotherapy (SIT) in moderate and severe house dust mite (HDM) allergic asthmatics.

Methods:  Fifty‐four adult asthmatics allergic to HDM requiring at least inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) doses equivalent to 500 μg fluticasone propionate daily were randomized to subcutaneous SIT or placebo injections for a period of 3 years. The minimum required ICS dose, 4 week diary of asthma symptom score, use of rescue medication, peak expiratory flow (PEF) measurements and visual analog scale for asthma symptoms were assessed before start of treatment and after 1, 2 and 3 years of treatment.

Results:  In patients with moderate and severe asthma, the reduction in ICS was statistical significant after 2 years of treatment (P = 0.03) but not after 3 years. The median reductions were 82% and 42% after the third year for active and placebo respectively. In patients with moderate persistent asthma the reduction was statistical significant larger for those treated with SIT compared with placebo after year 2 and year 3. The median reductions after 3 years were 90% for SIT and 42% for placebo (P = 0.04). Despite significant steroid reduction, there was no difference in asthma assessments between the two groups. No serious reactions related to SIT injections were seen.

Conclusion:  This study shows that SIT with a SQ‐standardized HDM extract is safe. An ICS sparing effect was evident in patients with moderate persistent asthma.
Common vaccine antigens inhibit allergen‐induced sensitization and airway hyperresponsiveness in a murine model
Authors: Grüber C. , Gerhold K. , Von Stuckrad S. L. , Avagyan A. , Quarcoo D. , Ahrens B. , Wahn U. , Hamelmann E.
Published: June 2006

Background:  Co‐vaccination with cellular pertussis vaccine down‐regulates allergic sensitization to diphtheria and tetanus antigens. Using a murine model, we investigated whether vaccination with diphtheria/tetanus toxoids, administered separately or simultaneously with the whole cell vaccine of Bordetella pertussis, inhibits subsequent allergen‐induced immune and inflammatory responses.

Methods:  BALB/c‐mice were vaccinated intracutaneously with a combination of diphtheria and tetanus toxoids or a combination of diphtheria and tetanus toxoids with a whole cell vaccine of B. pertussis (three times, days −21 to −7) prior to systemic sensitization (days 1–14) and repeated airway challenges (days 28–30) with ovalbumin.

Results:  Compared with negative controls, systemic sensitization and airway allergen challenges induced high serum levels of allergen‐specific IgE, predominant Th2‐type cytokine production, airway inflammation and development of in vivo airway hyperreactivity. Vaccination with diphtheria and tetanus toxoids prior to sensitization suppressed IgE formation and development of eosinophilic airway inflammation. Co‐vaccination with a whole cell pertussis vaccine inhibited allergen sensitization, airway inflammation and development of in vivo airway hyperreactivity. Prevention was due to an allergen‐specific and general shift from a predominant Th2 towards a predominant Th1 immune response.

Conclusion:  Vaccination with diphtheria and tetanus toxoids alone or in combination with whole cell pertussis vaccine prior to allergen sensitization prevented allergen‐induced Th2 immune responses. Vaccine antigens may down‐regulate allergic responses to a range of common allergens.
Beacon‐Like Immunoreactivity in the Hypothalamus of Domestic Chick
Authors: Esposito V. , De Girolamo P. , Gargiulo G. , Dun N. J.
Published: June 2006

Beacon‐immunoreactive (B‐ir) fibres and neurons in the hypothalamus of the domestic chick (Gallus domesticus) were studied using an immunohistochemical technique in order to verify the presence and elucidate the pattern of distribution of this novel peptide in an avian brain. B‐ir neurons were seen in the n. supraopticus, pars ventralis and pars externus; n. magnocellularis preopticus, pars dorsalis, medialis and ventralis; n. preopticus periventricularis; n. suprachiasmaticus, pars medialis; n. ventrolateralis thalami. Only few B‐ir cells were scattered in the most anterior part of the lateral hypothalamic area. B‐ir fibres, appearing as thin punctuate structures, were seen mainly along the walls of the third ventricle and in the ventromedial hypothalamus. Labelled fibres and terminals were located in the external and internal zones of the anterior and posterior median eminence. In particular, fibre terminals were seen close to the capillary loops of the hypothalamo‐hypophysial portal system. The anatomical data of the present study regarding the distribution of B‐ir in the chick hypothalamus suggest that beacon may play a key role in the regulation of the neuroendocrine system by acting as a neuromodulator and/or neurotransmitter.
Age‐related Changes in the Number of Mast Cells in the Avian Lymphoid Organs
Authors: Karaca T. , Yörük M. , Uslu S.
Published: June 2006

The distribution of mast cells (MCs) was studied in the lymphoid organs (thymus, bursa of Fabricius and spleen) of 0‐, 7‐, 21‐, 30‐ and 120‐day‐old chickens, using light microscopic histochemical techniques. Tissues samples were obtained under deep anaesthesia from animals in five groups. Tissues were fixed in Mota's fixative (basic lead acetate) for 24 h and embedded in paraffin. Six‐micrometre‐thick sections were stained with toluidine blue in 0.5% aqueous solution at pH 1.0 for 5 min and Alcian blue/Safranine at pH 1.42 for 30 min. MCs were found in the organs, mostly associated with sinuses and blood vessels. A large increase in MCs was observed in both thymus and spleen of 21‐day‐old chickens compared with 0‐, 7‐, 30‐ and 120‐day‐old chickens. However, in the bursa of Fabricius, numbers of MCs were significantly higher in the 7‐day‐old group compared with other age groups. Safranine‐positive MCs were not observed in all organs and age groups. These results showed age‐related changes in the number of MCs in avian lymphoid tissues.
Egg Coloration and Recognition of Conspecific Brood Parasitism in Eastern Bluebirds
Authors: Siefferman Lynn
Published: June 2006

Individual eastern bluebird (Sialia sialis) females produce clutches of eggs with unique coloration and older females and females in better body condition lay more pigmented blue‐green eggs. Conspecific brood parasitism in this species is not uncommon and bluebirds occasionally reject what appear to be normal eggs by moving them to the periphery of the nest. I used UV‐visual reflectance spectrometry to objectively measure coloration of eggs and nest material. To estimate the conspicuousness of the trait, I calculated the contrast between eggs and background nest material. I found high achromatic and chromatic contrast between the coloration of eggs and of the nests, suggesting that bluebird eggs are highly conspicuous. To test the hypothesis that expression of blue‐green coloration eggs facilitates recognition of eggs laid by conspecific brood parasites, I cross‐fostered individual eggs into host nests during egg laying and monitored the fate of those eggs. I found no support, however, for the hypothesis that egg coloration facilitates discrimination of parasitic eggs from host eggs.
Adult Richardson's Ground Squirrels (Spermophilus richardsonii) Ignore Rate Changes in Juvenile Alarm Calls: Age‐Differential Response Urgency Perception?
Authors: Sloan Jennifer L. , Hare James F.
Published: June 2006

Juvenile Richardson's ground squirrels (RGS; Spermophilus richardsonii) communicate response urgency by modulating the rate of syllable production in repetitive alarm calls, although longer call bouts do not promote more pronounced or longer‐lasting (tonic) vigilance in juvenile call recipients. We exposed free‐living adult RGS to playbacks of alarm calls differing in rate and length to determine whether adult receivers respond to the same alarm parameters as juveniles. Adult squirrels did not respond differentially to differences in call rate or length, suggesting that adult RGS do not attend to call rate as do juveniles. This difference in response may be attributable to a developmental change in the perceptual mechanisms by which individuals extract information regarding response urgency, but could also be a product of adult receivers devaluing information encoded in alarm calls emitted by relatively inexperienced juvenile signalers.
The Effects of Inbreeding on Male Courtship Behaviour and Coloration in Guppies
Authors: Mariette Mylene , Kelley Jennifer L , Brooks Robert , Evans Jonathan P
Published: June 2006

Despite an extensive literature on inbreeding depression in a variety of traits, relatively little is known about the effects of inbreeding on patterns of sexual behaviour. In this study, we use the guppy Poecilia reticulata to investigate the influence of parental relatedness (full‐sib. vs. unrelated matings) on sexual behaviour and colour pattern variation in adult male offspring. Our results revealed that one generation of full‐sibling mating resulted in a strong decline in male sexual motivation (courtship intensity and following behaviour) and mating success (number of successful copulations and insemination success – as estimated by the frequency of post‐copulatory jerks after mating), but we detected no significant influence of inbreeding on colour pattern variation. Our finding that sexual ornamentation (colour) did not show similar inbreeding depression to courtship behaviour may be due to differences in the genetic basis of these traits. Our findings indicate that courtship can be a sensitive indicator of genetic stress and add to an emerging picture that sexually selected traits can be severely affected by inbreeding depression.
The Union Relative Wage Effect for Academic Librarians
Authors: LEE DEBORAH O. , ROGERS KEVIN E. , GRIMES PAUL W.
Published: June 2006

This note investigates the impact of labor unions on the starting salaries of academic librarians. Using data collected from members of the Association of Research Libraries (ARL) and employing standard ordinary least squares (OLS) and seemingly unrelated regressions techniques, the union relative wage gap was estimated annually over the 1989–1998 time period. Three important results were found. First, unionized academic librarians received a positive and significant union wage premium throughout most of the decade studied. Second, this wage premium declined in magnitude over time following the trend in the economy as a whole. Lastly, by the end of the sample period, the wage effect had disappeared and was no longer significantly different from zero.