bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modelling the growth and water uptake function of plant root systems: a review
Authors: Wang Enli , Smith Chris J.
Published: June 2004

Crop models have been intensively used as a tool to analyse the performance of cropping systems under variable climate in terms of productivity, profitability, and off-site impact. The importance of modelling the function of plant roots in water and nutrient uptake from the soil is becoming increasing clear with the expanding application areas of crop models. This paper reviews the approaches and assumptions used in growth and uptake modelling of plant roots, and how the responses of plant root system to internal and external factors are captured in the widely used crop models. Most modelling approaches are based on one of the following assumptions: (i) that plant roots are uniformly distributed in homogenous soil layers and all roots have the same ability for uptake, or (ii) that plant root length is always sufficient for resource uptake in rooted soil layers. In structured soils, an overestimation of water uptake is likely to be expected. Further studies on root growth, distribution, and function in structured soils will require quantification of soil structures and root distribution patterns; and for non-uniformly distributed plant populations, spatial distribution of plant roots and non-uniform uptake need to be modelled. Root architecture modelling may help to address such issues. However, in order for the model to be useful at the field production level, simplified approaches that require easily measurable inputs need to be developed. Some examples are given. The oversimplification of root response to soil drying and hardness is likely to lead to overestimation of root growth and water uptake in dense soils. A soil strength factor needs to be incorporated so that the improved model can help evaluate the effect of subsoil compaction on production and resource use. Responses of root growth and uptake to soil salinity, boron toxicity, and extreme pH need to be further investigated if models are to be used for evaluation of crop performance in such environments. Effect of waterlogging also needs to be added for use of the model on heavy clay soils under irrigation or concentrated rainfall. There is an urgent need for joint efforts of crop physiologists, agronomists, breeders, and soil scientists to integrate interdisciplinary knowledge and to collect data that better describe the crop root system and its growth and uptake ability, to quantify plant process level responses, and for better soil quantification. Such knowledge and data are essential for improvement of model performance and successful applications.
Potential of capillary electrophoresis for identification of Australian triticale varieties
Authors: Siriamornpun S. , Wootton M. , Schultheiss J. B.
Published: June 2004

Ethanol soluble proteins were extracted from 5 different triticale varieties grown at 2 different sites in South Australia, and from single samples of wheat and rye. Separation of these proteins using capillary electrophoresis (CE) showed different patterns for different varieties but similar patterns for the same varieties grown at the 2 sites. The main differences between electropherograms for wheat and triticale were attributed to the presence of rye secalins, higher levels of α-gliadins, and lower levels of β-gliadins in those from the latter. These results indicate the potential of CE of ethanol-soluble proteins for identification of triticale varieties.
The risk of extinction resulting from disease caused by Phytophthora cinnamomi to endangered, vulnerable or rare plant species endemic to the Grampians, Western Victoria
Authors: Reiter Noushka , Weste Gretna , Guest David
Published: June 2004

Seven rare, vulnerable or endangered plant species endemic to the Grampians Ranges (Gariwerd) in Victoria were tested for their susceptibility to Phytophthora cinnamomi Rands. Existing habitats were checked for infestations of P. cinnamomi. Plants were grown from cuttings collected either from nurseries or from the Grampians National Park. Symptoms on inoculated plants and measurements of shoot growth and vigour were recorded weekly. Dry biomass was recorded at the end of the experiment and the pathogen was re-isolated from inoculated plants to confirm disease aetiology. Results from pot trials were correlated with the results from extensive field surveys for each species in its habitat to assess the risk posed by P. cinnamomi to each species' existence in the wild.The pot trials and field observations revealed that the risk of extinction from infection caused by P. cinnamomi was high for Pimelea pagophila and Pultenaea subalpina (both highly susceptible and inhabiting infested sites) as well as for Asterolasia phebalioides seedlings and Borya mirabilis (both moderately susceptible and inhabiting infested sites). The risk from P. cinnamomi was medium for Sphaerolobium acanthos (susceptible) and low for Grevillea microstegia (slightly susceptible). Hibbertia humifusa subsp. humifusa (field resistant) was not at risk. Measures to protect the susceptible species have been investigated and are discussed.
Synthesis of (-)-longithorone A: Using organic synthesis to probe a proposed biosynthesis
Authors: Morales Carl A. , Layton Mark E. , Shair Matthew D.
Published: June 2004

We present a full report of our enantioselective synthesis of (-)-longithorone A (1). The synthesis was designed to test the feasibility of the biosynthetic proposal for 1 put forward by Schmitz involving intermolecular and transannular Diels–Alder reactions of two [12]-paracyclophane quinones. We have found that if the biosynthesis does involve these two Diels–Alder reactions, the intermolecular Diels–Alder reaction likely occurs before the transannular cycloaddition. The intermolecular Diels–Alder precursors, [12]-paracyclophanes 38, 49, 59, and 60, were prepared atropselectively, providing examples of ene–yne metathesis macrocyclization. The 1,3-disubstituted dienes produced from the macrocyclizations represent a previously unreported substitution pattern for intramolecular ene–yne metathesis. Protected benzylic hydroxyl stereocenters were used as removable atropisomer control elements and were installed by using a highly enantioselective vinylzinc addition to electron-rich benzaldehydes 26 and 27.
Detailed analysis of gene expression during development of T cell lineages in the thymus
Authors: McCarty Nami , Shinohara Mari L. , Lu Linrong , Cantor Harvey
Published: June 2004

The genetic mechanisms that promote lineage commitment and eliminate autoreactive cells in the thymus are not well understood. To better understand this process, we have identified and quantitated transcripts in the two major thymocyte lineages by using serial analysis of gene expression. Approximately 25 genes displayed almost complete segregation to one or the other T cell lineage. Commitment to the CD4 lineage was marked by up-regulation of genes associated with increased survival and chaperone function followed by expression of genes that regulate nucleosome remodeling and T cell receptor signaling. Differentiation within the CD8 lineage, on the other hand, was marked by up-regulation of genes that regulate lymphocyte homing, followed by quenching of genes that inhibit apoptosis. Definition of differential gene expression during development of the two major thymocyte lineages will allow insight into mechanisms of T cell development after positive and negative selection.
High urea and NaCl carbonylate proteins in renal cells in culture andin vivo, and high urea causes 8-oxoguanine lesions in their DNA
Authors: Zhang Zheng , Dmitrieva Natalia I. , Park Jong-Hwan , Levine Rodney L. , Burg Maurice B.
Published: June 2004

Urea and NaCl are elevated in the renal inner medulla. We now find that a high concentration of urea or NaCl increases reactive oxygen species (ROS) in mouse renal inner medullary (mIMCD3) cells in culture. Previously, high NaCl, but not high urea, was found to cause DNA double-strand breaks. We now tested whether high urea or NaCl causes oxidative damage to DNA or cellular proteins. We find that high urea increases mIMCD3 cell DNA single-strand breaks and 8-oxoguanine lesions. High NaCl does not cause detectable 8-oxoguanine lesions. High urea or NaCl also greatly increases carbonylation of proteins in mIMCD3 cells. Carbonylation occurs within 5 min and with as little as 5 mM urea, a normal plasma level. It increases as urea is raised over the range in uremia. A high raffinose level increases ROS and carbonylation. High sorbitol and glycerol levels do not increase ROS or carbonylation. Carbonyl content is high in mouse renal inner medullas where interstitial NaCl and urea concentrations are normally high. There, numerous proteins are carbonylated, and carbonylation occurs in both collecting ducts and thin limbs. Conclusions: (i) Oxidative stress, associated with high urea, causes 8-oxoguanine DNA lesions in mIMCD3 cell DNA. (ii) High urea or NaCl carbonylates proteins in mIMCD3 cells and in renal inner medullary cellsin vivo. (iii) In mIMCD3 cells a normal plasma concentration of urea causes carbonylation, and carbonylation increases over the uremic range of urea concentration, indicating that urea can contribute directly to the carbonylation found in uremia.
How does a carabid predator find aggregations of slugs in the field? Electroantennograms and behavioural assays suggest chemical cues
Authors: McKemey A.R. , Glen D.M. , Symondson W.O.C.
Published: June 2004

Field studies suggest that the generalist carabid predator and scavengerPterostichus melanariusIlliger aggregates to patches with a higher density of slug prey. The mechanisms behind such aggregation are unknown. Experiments were conducted to test the hypothesis that they are responding to chemical cues. Electroantennograms (EAGs) showed no response byP. melanariusantennae to live, nematode-infected, injured or freshly killed slugs, but a strong response to dead slugs that had been allowed to decay for up to 48 h. Such a response would enable the beetles to find carrion in the field and may also, as dead prey are likely to be spatially correlated with live ones, provide a mechanism by whichP. melanariusfinds patches with a higher density of live slugs. Subsequent video analyses ofP. melanariusresponses to patches of slug mucus within arenas showed that beetles with intact antennae could detect these patches because they spent more time, and moved greater distances, within them and increased their rate of turning. Thus, at close range,P. melanariusused their antennae to detect slug mucus and hence, by implication, live slugs. The apparent contradiction between EAG data and behavioural experiments is discussed. Together these result confirm thatP. melanariusdoes respond to chemical cues from its slug prey in ways that could lead to aggregation in areas of higher slug density in the field.
Diet breadth and its relationship with genetic diversity and differentiation: the case of southern beech aphids (Hemiptera: Aphididae)
Authors: Gaete-Eastman C. , Figueroa C.C. , Olivares-Donoso R. , Niemeyer H.M. , Ramírez C.C.
Published: June 2004

Herbivorous insect species with narrow diet breadth are expected to be more prone to genetic differentiation than insect species with a wider diet breadth. However, a generalist can behave as a local specialist if a single host-plant species is locally available, while a specialist can eventually behave as a generalist if its preferred host is not available. These problems can be addressed by comparing closely related species differing in diet breadth with overlapping distributions of insect and host populations. In this work, diet breadth, genetic diversity and population differentiation of congeneric aphid species from southern beech forests in Chile were compared. While at the species level no major differences in genetic diversity were found, a general trend towards higher genetic diversity as diet breadth increased was apparent. The aphid species with wider diet breadth, Neuquenaphis edwardsi (Laing), showed the highest genetic diversity, while the specialist Neuquenaphis staryi Quednau & Remaudière showed the lowest. These differences were less distinct when the comparisons were made in the same locality and over the same host. Comparison of allopatric populations indicates that genetic differentiation was higher for the specialists, Neuquenaphis similis Hille Ris Lambers and N. staryi, than for the generalist N. edwardsi. Over the same host at different locations, genetic differentiation among populations of N. edwardsi was higher than among populations of N. similis. The results support the assumption that specialists should show more pronounced genetic structuring than generalists, although the geographical distribution of host plants may be playing an important role.
Staphylinidae and Carabidae overwintering in wheat and sown wildflower areas of different age
Authors: Frank T. , Reichhart B.
Published: June 2004

Species richness and abundance of staphylinid and carabid beetles overwintering in winter wheat fields and 1- to 3-year-old wildflower areas were investigated during 2000/2001 on 16 study sites in Switzerland. Abundance and species richness of overwintering staphylinids significantly increased with successional age of the wildflower areas and were always higher in older wildflower areas than in winter wheat. A similar but less distinct pattern was observed for the abundance and species richness of carabid beetles. The influence of habitat parameters (vegetation cover, fine sand content, organic matter, pH, soil pore volume, surrounding landscape structure, habitat area) on the staphylinid and carabid assemblages based on the number of individuals per species and site was analysed using canonical correspondence analysis. Vegetation cover was the most significant parameter significantly characterizing both staphylinid and carabid assemblages. The amount of vegetation cover explained 15.7% of the variance, fine sand content accounted for 13.3% and surrounding landscape structure for 10.9% of the variance in the staphylinid assemblage. In the carabid assemblage, vegetation cover was the only significant factor, explaining 24.7% of the variance. This study showed for the first time that the significance of wildflower areas as a reservoir for hibernation for generalist predatory beetles increases with progressing successional age.
An updated list of the ticks of Ghana and an assessment of the distribution of the ticks of Ghanaian wild mammals in different vegetation zones
Authors: Ntiamoa-Baidu Y. , Carr-Saunders C. , Matthews B.E. , Preston P.M. , Walker A.R.
Published: June 2004

Twenty one species of ticks belonging to five genera of the family Ixodidae (Order Acari, sub-order Ixodida) – Amblyomma, Haemaphysalis, Hyalomma, Ixodes and Rhipicephalus (including the sub-genus Rhipicephalus (Boophilus)) – were collected from 1260 mammals, representing 29 species, 14 families and 6 orders, in four vegetation zones in Ghana during the period 1971–1978. Four other species were collected from humans in 1977. In all, eight species appeared to be new records for Ghana: Amblyomma tholloni Neumann; Dermacentor circumguttatus Neumann; Haemaphysalis houyi Nuttall & Warburton; Ixodes loveridgei Arthur; Ixodes oldi Nuttall; Ixodes vanidicus Schultze; Rhipicephalus complanatus Neumann; Rhipicephalus cuspidatus Neumann. The updated list of tick species in Ghana given here includes 41 species of ixodid ticks and four species of argasid ticks. Most species have been found in neighbouring regions of West Africa but 56 of the 121 different combinations of ixodid tick species and host species found in the collection described here have not apparently been reported before. The new combinations recorded here bring the total number of different combinations of ixodid tick species and mammalian host species now reported in Ghana to 151. The tick species found on wild mammals in Ghana mostly differed from those reported from domestic stock by other authors. The data showed that different tick species occurred in different vegetation zones and that most species displayed a pronounced preference for certain groups of related host species. Some tick species were found in the savanna feeding mainly on large bovids and/or suids; others were found in forests feeding mainly on small bovids, large rodents or small carnivores.
Allozyme markers to help define the South American origins of Microctonus hyperodae (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) established in New Zealand for biological control of Argentine stem weevil
Authors: Iline I.I. , Phillips C.B.
Published: June 2004

The thelytokous parasitoid, Microctonus hyperodae Loan, was collected from eight South American locations and introduced to New Zealand in 1991 for biological control of Argentine stem weevil, Listronotus bonariensis (Kuschel) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). Parasitoids from each population were released in equal numbers at each New Zealand site to give them the same opportunities to establish. Population markers have been sought to identify the South American geographic populations that have become most successful in New Zealand. These would assist in determining the importance of concepts such as climate matching and host–parasitoid coevolution to the establishment of natural enemies in new regions for biological control. Vertical polyacrylamide electrophoresis was used to survey 16 enzymes and ten calcium binding proteins, and this paper reports variation at three putative loci. Malate dehydrogenase, a dihydrolipoamide dehydrogenase isozyme and a calcium binding protein exhibited clear genetic variation, each with two alleles. All M. hyperodae isofemale lines from east of the Andes mountains shared one genotype, all but one from west of the Andes shared another, while a population from within the Andes contained both genotypes. This variation was highly congruent with previously described morphometric variation. At two loci, the maintenance of heterozygotes, and the absence of homozygotes, within isofemale lines suggested M. hyperodae thelytoky is apomictic.
'Embryonic' Knowledge-based Clusters and Cities: The Case of Biotechnology in Scotland
Authors: Leibovitz Joseph
Published: June 2004

The cluster concept has been promoted in recent years as a panacea for economic development, both locally and nationally. One source of theoretical and empirical ambiguity in the concept is related to the spatial processes underpinning cluster development, and to the relationship between cities and clusters in particular. This paper examines the case of the biotechnology cluster in Scottish cities, with particular reference to Glasgow and Edinburgh. The promotion of a biotechnology cluster has become a priority for Scotland's economic development strategy because of its potential role in the knowledge-driven economy. The paper examines the major locational dynamics affecting biotechnology in Scotland and interrogates the balance between the major forces driving the development of biotechnology firms in their urban location. It concludes that the importance of cities to cluster growth lies mainly in the size and diversity of their labour markets, in the presence of key research institutions and public-sector anchors and in the provision of infrastructure and services. At the same time, historical legacies, national and international regulatory frameworks and external linkages play an important role in shaping the development trajectory of Scotland's biotechnology cluster.
Clusters from the Inside and Out: Local Dynamics and Global Linkages
Authors: Wolfe David A. , Gertler Meric S.
Published: June 2004

This paper surveys some of the current methodologies employed to analyse cluster development, as well as some of the key themes emerging from both the analytical and prescriptive literature noted above. It uses this survey as the context in which to present a synthesis of the initial findings of the current national study of industrial clusters in Canada, conducted by the Innovation Systems Research Network. The national study comprises 26 cases which aim to identify the presence of significant concentrations of firms in the local economy and to understand the process by which these regional-industrial concentrations of economic activity are managing the transition to more knowledge-intensive forms of production. The central questions in each case are: What role do local institutions and actors play in fostering this transition? How important is interaction with non-local actors in this process? How dependent are local firms on unique local knowledge assets and what is the relative importance of local versus non-local knowledge flows between economic actors? How did each local industrial concentration evolve over time to reach its present state and what key events and decisions shaped its path? And, finally, to what extent do these processes, relationships and local capabilities constitute a true cluster? Ultimately, what are the key relationships, linkages and processes that ground the cluster in its existing location?
Entrepreneurial Activity and the Dynamics of Technology-based Cluster Development: The Case of Ottawa
Authors: Harrison Richard T. , Cooper Sarah Y. , Mason Colin M.
Published: June 2004

Relatively little attention has been given to the role of entrepreneurial dynamics in the origin and growth of technology clusters. To the extent that the role of entrepreneurship is considered at all, the emphasis is on the locally embedded nature of the process and on the characteristics of the incubator organisation—the immediate past employer of the entrepreneur—and its role as the source of entrepreneurial know how and the technological ideas upon which the new business is based. This paper argues that this is too simplistic a view. There are two strands to the argument. First, entrepreneurs are not 'local'. Rather, they are attracted to technology clusters, or incipient clusters, by a range of magnet organisations (talent attractors). Secondly, entrepreneurs draw on their experience and the networks established during their entire career, working in different organisations and places, and not just on those resulting from their immediate past employment. These processes are illustrated with reference to the technology-based cluster in the Ottawa region of Canada. The paper concludes that the entrepreneurial dynamics underlying cluster development are best understood through an analysis of the role of magnet organisations and the development of a 'talent pool' in supporting the localisation of economic activity in particular spaces over time.
Book Review: The Handbook of Memory Disorders
Authors: Kay Bruce
Published: June 2004

There is no abstract with this book review
Cytolytic Vaginosis: Misdiagnosed as Candidal Vaginitis
Authors: Cerikcioglu Nilgun , Beksac M. Sinan
Published: June 2004

Objectives: In this study, 210 women with vaginal discharge and other symptoms/signs of genital pathology
suggestive of vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) were involved in order to distinguish true VVC and cytolytic
vaginosis (CV) cases.

Methods: Fungal cultures, 10% potassium hydroxide (KOH) and Gram stained preparations and pH
measurements were performed on the vaginal discharge material of each patient.

Results: Fifteen patients (7.1%) were diagnosed with cytolytic vaginosis according to their clinical and
microbiological findings, including abundant lactobacilli, fragmented epithelial cells and/or free nuclei due to
cytolysis, seen in their discharge materials on microscopic examination, but no fungal growth.

Conclusions: The results of this study may contribute to the reports in the literature indicating the importance
of such disorders, which are generally misdiagnosed as candidiasis.
Antibiotic Resistance Patterns of Group B Streptococcal ClinicalIsolates
Authors: Simoes Jose A. , Aroutcheva Alla A. , Heimler Ira , Faro Sebastian
Published: June 2004

Objectives: To determine the in vitro resistance of group B streptococcus (GBS) to 12 antibiotics. To determine
if there has been any decrease in sensitivity to the penicillins or other antibiotics currently used for GBS
chemoprophylaxis in pregnant women. Find suitable alternative antibiotics to penicillin. Find an antibiotic that will
have minimal selective pressure for resistance among the endogenous resident vaginal microflora.

Methods: The antibiotic susceptibility profiles of 52 clinical isolates of GBS were evaluated to 12 antibiotics:
ampicillin, azithromycin, cefamandole, cefazolin, ceftriaxone, ciprofloxacin, clindamycin, erythromycin, nitrofurantoin,
ofloxacin, penicillin and vancomycin. Antibiotic sensitivities were determined using disk diffusion and
microdilution methods according to the guidelines of the National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards
(NCCLS).

Results: All isolates were sensitive to vancomycin, ofloxacin, ampicillin, ciprofloxacin, nitrofurantoin and penicillin.
However, the following number of clinical isolates exhibited intermediate or decreased sensitivity, nine (17%) to
ampicillin, eight (15%) to penicillin, 14 (32%) to ciprofloxacin and one (2%) to nitrofurantoin. Thirty‐one percent
of the isolates were resistant to azithromycin and ceftriaxone, 19% to clindamycin, 15% to cefazolin and 13% to
cefamandole. Eighteen (35%) of the clinical isolates tested were resistant to 6 of the 12 antibiotics tested.

Conclusions: The relatively high rates of resistance for 6 of the 12 antibiotics tested suggest that for women allergic
to penicillin and colonized with GBS, antibiotic sensitivities to their isolates should be determined. The antibiotic
selected for intrapartum chemoprophylaxis should be guided by the organism’s antibiotic sensitivity pattern.
Patients with GBS bacteriuria should be treated with nitrofurantoin.
Antenatal Diagnosis of Intrauterine Infection WithCoxsackievirus B3 Associated With Live Birth
Authors: Ouellet Annie , Sherlock Rebecca , Toye Baldwin , Fung Karen Fung Kee
Published: June 2004

Background: Prior reported cases of stillbirth and neonates infected with enteroviruses suggest transplacental
infection. We present a case of fetal infection with coxsackievirus B3, diagnosed antenatally and resulting in live
birth.

Case: A pregnant woman presented at 26 weeks with fetal tachycardia and non‐immune hydrops fetalis.
Coxsackievirus B3 was cultured from amniotic fluid. Maternal antibody to coxsackievirus B3 was positive at 1:
512. At 32 weeks, the fetus deteriorated and was delivered. Cord blood antibody to coxsackievirus B3 was
positive at a higher titer. Following neonatal death, brain and placental tissues were positive for enterovirus
ribonucleic acid by polymerase chain reaction.

Conclusion: Intrauterine infection by enteroviruses should be considered in the differential diagnosis of nonimmune
hydrops fetalis. Antenatal diagnosis of coxsackievirus B3 infection is associated with poor outcome.
Perimenopausal Pneumococcal Tubo‐Ovarian Abscess – a CaseReport and Review
Authors: Seshadri Srividya , Kirwan John , Neal Tim
Published: June 2004

Background: Genital tract infections in females secondary to Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus) are
unusual. Tubo‐ovarian abscess resulting from such an infection is a rare occurrence and diagnosis is not always
easy. This report demonstrates the problems of recognizing this condition and summarizes the
pathomechanism, investigations leading to a diagnosis and the subsequent management.

Case: A rare case of a tubo‐ovarian abscess caused by pneumococcus, occurring in a previously healthy 48‐
year‐old woman, is presented. The tubo‐ovarian abscess may have developed insidiously and probably had an
acute exacerbation prior to presentation.

Conclusion: This case is unusual in that there were no identifiable initiating events for the source of the
pneumococcal infection. Early recognition of a tubo‐ovarian abscess is important in order to prevent the
associated morbidity and mortality. This condition has the propensity to mimic a neoplasm.
Clinical Evaluation of Afﬁrm VPIII in the Detection andIdentiﬁcation of Trichomonas vaginalis, Gardnerella vaginalis, and Candida Species in Vaginitis/Vaginosis
Authors: Brown Haywood L. , Fuller Deanna D. , Jasper Lori T. , Davis Thomas E. , Wright Justin D.
Published: June 2004

Objective: To compare the Affirm VPIII Microbial Identification Test for detection and identification of Candida
species, Gardnerella vaginalis and Trichomonas vaginalis to clinical and microscopic criteria commonly used to
diagnose vaginitis.

Methods: Women that were symptomatic for vaginitis/vaginosis and asymptomatic women being seen for
routine obstetric or gynecological care were included in this study. Women treated with antibiotics or
antifungals within one week or women who had douched within 24 hours were excluded. Two vaginal swab
specimens were simultaneously obtained from each patient, one swab was placed in sterile physiological saline
for immediate microscopic wet mount examination and KOH testing. The other swab was placed in the Affirm
collection tube for Affirm VPIII testing based on previously demonstrated methods.

Results: The Affirm assay was significantly more likely to identify Gardnerella and Candida than wet mount.
190 (45%) were positive for Gardnerella by Affirm compared to 58 (14%) by wet mount; 45 (11%) were
positive for Candida by Affirm compared to 31 (7%) by wet mount; and 30 (7%) were positive for
Trichomonas by Affirm compared to 23 (5%) by wet mount. Symptomatic women were significantly more
likely to be positive by Affirm only (23% vs. 10%), wet mount only (3% vs. 2%) or Affirm and wet mount
(15% vs. 1%). Asymptomatic women were significantly more likely to be negative for Affirm and wet mount
(43% vs. 5%).

Conclusions: The Affirm VPIII test is a more sensitive diagnostic test for detection and identification of
symptomatic vaginitis/vaginosis than conventional clinical examination and wet mount testing.
A study of the influence of solvents on the dispersive characteristics of silica, modified with 3‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane, as filler for plastic and paint systems
Authors: Andrzejewska A. , Krysztafkiewicz A. , Jesionowski T.
Published: June 2004

Studies were carried out on the modification of silica with 3‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane in various solvents. The modified silica obtained was subjected to comprehensive evaluations of physicochemical properties, including the bulk density and the capacities to absorb water, dibutyl phthalate and paraffin oil. Particle size, particle size distribution, uniformity of the particles, tendency to form agglomerates, as well as particle surface morphology, were also examined using SEM and dynamic light scattering (DLS) techniques. The properties of the modified silica obtained were compared to evaluate the effects of the solvents used during the surface modification of the silica.
Synthesis and characterisation of a new series of pyridinone azo dyes for dyeing of synthetic fibers
Authors: Helal M.H.
Published: June 2004

A series of azo dye systems, namely, 5‐arylazo‐pyridin‐2‐one dye systems (5a‐k), was synthesised and characterised. The effects of the structural configuration of the pyridinone dye systems on the shifts of the ultraviolet‐visible absorption maxima were investigated. The structural effects of the polyfunctionally substituted pyridinone dye systems on the intensity of colour and fastness properties of the dyed fabrics were also discussed.
Why create a media and game center?
Authors: Davidson Drew
Published: June 2004

Game centers are increasingly being started at various universities around the world. The paper explores and expounds on the incorporation of an official university center that has a mission on the study and making of games and simulations. To focus this discussion, the paper looks at the ideas and initiatives that led up to the successful creation of the Applied Media and Simulation Games Center at Indiana University of Pennsylvania.
Export activity and firm size: an examination of the machine tool sector
Authors: Kalafsky Ronald V.
Published: June 2004

This paper examines the relationship between firm size and export performance within the US machine tool (MT) industry, a sector comprised primarily of SMEs. Evidence for this analysis is taken from the results of a postal survey of 82 MT exporters representing a cross‐section of company size, product lines, and geographic location. Among these manufacturers, firm size fails to correlate with export‐intensity or export growth. However, the results suggest relationships between firm size and the degree of importance accorded to several problems impacting the MT sector, such as access to export finance and declining local markets. Overall, smaller MT producers do not face major impediments to export activity. Instead, specialization and market niche appear to be important. The paper concludes with a discussion of future growth prospects and competitive issues for these manufacturers.
Small business performance: a tourism sector focus
Authors: Morrison Alison , Teixeira Rivanda
Published: June 2004

Discussion and analysis of small businesses tends to work on generalised, popularised understanding and knowledge of what their motivations are and how they behave in a business environment. The need to explore below these generalisations into the submerged variables and relationships is argued in this paper if academics and policy makers seriously want to interpret and induct theory and practice from the key actors within their natural habitat. Thus, this paper provides a conceptual framework relative to small, urban tourism business performance, which is used as an analytical framework to guide the interpretation of qualitative research undertaken with small businesses in the City of Glasgow. Specifically, discussion and conclusions focus on the complexity and multi‐dimensional nature of small tourism business performance, aspects pertaining to competitive advantages, and the enterprise development issues arising from the prioritisation of lifestyle objectives over those of a more explicit economic nature. Conclusions are drawn relative to research, managerial and enterprise policy implications.
Marketing in Russia by UK businesses: lessons from a survey of trade missioners to Moscow
Authors: Fallon Grahame , Jones Alan
Published: June 2004

This paper explores and analyses the findings from a survey of UK participants in a trade mission to Moscow, with reference to relevant academic literature. The focus is on their experience of doing business in transition economy (TE) country‐markets (including Russia itself); their perceptions of Russian market opportunities and risks; their main sources of information and advice; and their strategies for Russian market entry and development. The findings suggest businesses with experience of TEs and Russia may be best placed to succeed in the Russian market, provided that they draw fully on the resultant lessons. Newcomers to the Russian market can maximise their chances of success by seeking out good information and advice, forging good contacts with Russian businesses, and by adopting a well‐structured, but flexible approach to their marketing strategies. Official support agencies can help UK businesses to succeed in Russia by maximising the quantity and quality of the support, information and advice that they provide.
The environment for female entrepreneurship in Germany
Authors: Welter Friederike
Published: June 2004

The German government only recently started paying attention to the topic of female entrepreneurship as an important means to raise the overall level of entrepreneurship. Most relevant support policies concentrate on extending and stabilising the financial base of new female‐owned ventures. Relevant consultancy appears to play a less important role, although there has been a shift towards integrated packages in recent years. However, access to mainstream support is implicitly gender biased. Moreover, an integrated strategy for fostering female entrepreneurship also needs to consider that there are shortcomings in the institutional (political and societal) environment, possibly restricting women's interest in entrepreneurship and thus determining the extent of female entrepreneurship.
Identification of a novel HLA‐DRB1 allele (DRB1*1147)* by sequence‐based typing in eight siblings
Authors: Li Y. , Liao C. , Yang X. , Tang X‐W. , Wu J‐Y. , Huang Y‐N. , Xie X‐M.
Published: June 2004

Abstract:  We report here a novel DRB1 allele (DRB1*1147) identified by sequence‐based typing. The DRB1*1147 allele was detected during routine human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐typing of a patient and his family prior to bone marrow transplantation. This allele was found in the patient and his two sisters and five brothers. The new allele is identical to DRB1*110601 at exon 2 except for a single‐nucleotide substitution at codon 37 (TAC→TCC), changing the encoded tyrosine to serine.
HLA allele frequency and clinical outcome in Italian patients with cutaneous melanoma
Authors: Luongo V. , Pirozzi G. , Caracò C. , Errico S. , De Angelis F. , Celentano E. , Paino F. , Chiofalo M.G. , Luongo M. , Mozzillo N. , Lombardi M.L.
Published: June 2004

Abstract:  The current study focuses the analysis on the possible relationship between HLA allele frequency and clinical outcome of melanoma in a population of 382 Italian patients, as compared with 203 ethnically matched controls. In a 3‐year follow‐up study, results showed significant differences between groups of patients selected according to clinical stage, histology, and progression of the disease. A*01 seems to be correlated with a less aggressive variant of the disease, whereas DRB1*01‐DQB1*0501 seems to be associated with metastatic progression of melanoma. Moreover, a negative association with B*13, B*44, as well as with DRB1*04‐DQB1*0302 was found. A multivariate logistic regression model showed HLA‐DRB1*04 to behave as an independent favorable prognostic marker of melanoma in our population (OR = 2.34, CI = 1.15–4.74).
Identification of two novel HLA‐DRB1 alleles, DRB1*0903 and DRB1*1145
Authors: Liu C.‐J. , Chu C.‐C. , Lee Y.‐J. , Shi Y.N. , Lin M.
Published: June 2004

Abstract:  Two new HLA‐DRB1 alleles were identified by sequencing‐based typing in the oral submucous fibrosis and buccal cancer patients of Taiwan. They have been officially named HLA‐DRB1*0903 and DRB1*1145 by the World Health Organization Nomenclature Committee. The complete exon 2 sequence of DRB1*0903 was identical to that of the DRB1*090102 but differed by nucleotides of position 207–210 and 216 (AGAC, C replacing GCGG, and G). The DRB1*1145 was identical to the DRB1*110101 except for three nucleotide substitutions at codon 199, 220, and 221 (A, CT replacing T, and GC). Two complete exon 2 sequences of those new alleles had been deposited in the EMBL Sequence Database under accession number AY465114 and AY465115, respectively.
‘Die Neue Frau’ in the Correspondence of Johanna Kinkel, Malwida von Meysenbug and Fanny Lewald
Authors: Whittle Ruth
Published: June 2004

Johanna Kinkel (1810–58), Malwida von Meysenbug (1816–1903) and Fanny Lewald (1811–89) were three key female thinkers in Germany at the time of the Revolution of 1848/49. This article establishes the significance of their little known, in part unpublished, early correspondence and demonstrates the difficulty of any generalising account of ‘women's history’ and ‘women's writing’. The exchanges between the three correspondents are shaped by a series of conflicting attitudes and pressures. On the one hand the correspondents wanted to help create a politically enlightened Germany and thus tended to project images of their addressees or themselves as ‘new women’. On the other hand they were concerned to present, even to one another, a self‐image that conformed to current, rather conservative, social norms and prescriptions. All three women found it difficult to sustain either image under pressure from the conflicts in their daily lives. Some of the reasons for the ultimate disappointment of their hopes for rapid change can be traced in this correspondence.
The Mystery of Feilenhauer Torgelow: Fontane's Elusive Social Democrat
Authors: Tatchell Scott
Published: June 2004

As Günter Grass (among others) has highlighted, Theodor Fontane's Der Stechlin is one of the first German novels to feature a social‐democratic politician. This article examines the character of Torgelow, who is elected to the Reichstag. Anything we learn about Torgelow is always at one remove, by way of other characters. He never features directly in the narrative, and remains a mysterious figure.

After summarising the political backdrop against which the novel is set and providing a brief overview of Fontane's own attitude to the SPD, the article argues that pragmatic concerns and Fontane's burgeoning interest in the party combine to explain Torgelow's inclusion. Subsequently, Torgelow's abstract characterisation is explained as a consequence of Fontane's desire to portray the fear, loathing and ignorance inherent in bourgeois and aristocratic attitudes towards the party. The argument that Torgelow is a mere cipher for the party is rejected. Instead, Torgelow should be seen in the wider context of Fontane's depiction of the SPD as a whole. Overall, the article argues that the character of Torgelow provides a means for Fontane to acknowledge the SPD's rise, to suggest that its predominance will be of finite duration, and to oppose the party's persecution.
frau auf dem linguistischen Prüfstand: Eine korpusgestützte Gebrauchsanalyse feministischer Indefinitpronomen
Authors: Storjohann Petra
Published: June 2004

In diesem Beitrag soll der Frage nachgegangen werden, ob sich feministische Indefinitpronomen, insbesondere die Neuschöpfung frau, in ihrem Gebrauch außerhalb der feministischen Sprachbetrachtung und außerhalb frauenspezifischer Diskurse etabliert haben. Auf der Basis der IDS‐Korpora wird der öffentliche Sprachgebrauch neuer Pronomen hinsichtlich ihres Vorkommens sowohl quantitativ als auch qualitativ ausgewertet, um Aussagen zur Gebrauchsentwicklung treffen zu können. Mithilfe eines korpusanalytischen Werkzeugs werden linguistische Strukturen aufgedeckt, die Verwendungstypisches im Gebrauch des Lexems frau illustrieren. Besonderes Augenmerk erhält die diachrone Untersuchung der kontextuellen Einbettungen des Lexems frau. Dabei spielt sowohl die Extrahierung syntagmatischer Mitspieler mithilfe der softwaregestützten Kollokationsanalyse als auch die linguistische Analyse der Relationen zwischen Begleitwort und Suchwort eine besondere Rolle. Darüber hinaus sollen auch pragmatische und syntaktische Aspekte eruiert sowie Fragestellungen der allgemeinsprachlichen Bewertung feministischer Indefinitpronomen nachgegangen werden.
Dramatist with a Talent for Dramatisation: Elfriede Jelinek's Manipulation of the Media
Authors: El Refaie Elisabeth
Published: June 2004

This article describes Elfriede Jelinek's complex relationship with the media. Although she complains bitterly about the aggressive hate campaigns which she is regularly subjected to in her native Austria, her well‐timed provocations often give the impression of a deliberate manipulation of the media. This ambivalence is reflected in Jelinek's two plays Stecken, Stab und Stangl and In den Alpen, which deal with recent catastrophic events and their portrayal in the news. Both plays mimic media styles and quote from newspaper texts, but in a way that challenges the original meanings by satirising them. Using examples of reviews of the two plays in the German‐speaking press, I demonstrate that Jelinek's satirical techniques are often misunderstood and that she is accused of reinforcing the very patterns of discourse she criticises. However, the author does not appear to be interested in avoiding such misunderstandings. On the contrary, Jelinek's provocations of the media and of sections of her audiences must be regarded as constituting an integral part of her ‘dramaturgy’.
Improving Dean's writing: or, what shall we tell the children?
Authors: Frater Graham
Published: June 2004

In this paper Graham Frater finds early signs of a revival of explicit instruction in English grammar to pupils of compulsory school age in England; this is accompanied by an expectation that such teaching might play an important part in closing the ‘writing gap’. He suggests that, strengthened by the National Literacy Strategy, this early re‐awakening invokes again some of the debates that accompanied the construction of the National Curriculum. Rooted in a case study of a text by a low‐achieving Y7 writer, and in two surveys of effective practice with writing (covering Key Stages 2–4), this paper argues that purposeful text‐level teaching, reading in particular, and the creation of real readerships offer more secure ways of promoting progress in writing.
Thinking outside the box: imagination and empathy beyond story writing
Authors: Brill Frances
Published: June 2004

It is sometimes assumed that the strongest opportunities for developing imagination and empathy through children's writing lie in narrative starting points, whereas other less obviously literary writing forms are more readily associated with functional literacy. Consequently, writing regarded as non‐literary is rarely analysed with these qualities in mind. This paper presents an exploratory, textual analysis of children's letter‐writing texts, which aims to identify and describe the uses of imagination and empathy. It is suggested that imaginative strategies were integral to this textual construction and that the significance of imagination and empathy in writing development is worthy of further exploration.
“This one is more me!” What children think about writing test stimuli involving choice
Authors: Johnson Martin
Published: June 2004

This study follows from a previous study into children's attitudes to writing test stimulus features. In that study the views of 192 English eleven‐year‐olds were surveyed using a questionnaire. The survey found that the children were mainly influenced by features that they felt contributed to task difficulty. A qualitative study was designed in order to investigate children's views in more depth. Stimuli were constructed containing various features that children in the earlier study had suggested contributed to task difficulty. The children's ideas relating to the stimuli were elicited using a modified version of Kelly's repertory grid technique.
‘Invisible’ teachers of literacy: collusion between siblings and teachers in creating classroom cultures
Authors: Gregory Eve
Published: June 2004

The promise to raise literacy standards significantly at age 11 in economically disadvantaged areas has been an important part of the present British Government's educational policy. Integral to this promise has been the introduction of official home/school ‘contracts’ or ‘agreements’, which oblige parents to engage in specific literacy activities with their children. However, evidence from a longitudinal study of family literacy practices in East London suggests that family and community membersother than parentsmight play a crucial role in initiating young children into literacy.Siblingsparticularly have been found to be efficient ‘teachers’ of school literacy practices. In this paper, I investigate particularly ways in which an unspoken collusion takes place between teacher and older sibling revealed during ‘play school’ sessions in Bangladeshi British households in East London.
Bilingual Chinese/English first‐graders developing metacognition about writing
Authors: Ruan Jiening
Published: June 2004

This study investigates metacognitive development of 16 bilingual Chinese/English first‐graders. The researcher analysed the metacognitive utterances produced by the children while they were engaged in the writing task of composing dictated stories. The results suggest that the young bilinguals demonstrated metacognitive abilities and were able to employ metacognitive knowledge during their writing attempts. There is also indication that metacognition is closely connected to these children's ability to compose stories and the qualities of their stories.