bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factor Structure of the Mood and Anxiety Symptom Questionnaire does not Generalize to an Anxious/Depressed Sample
Authors: Boschen Mark J , Oei Tian P.S.
Published: December 2009

Objective: The tripartite model of anxiety and depression has been proposed as a representation of the structure of anxiety and depression symptoms. The Mood and Anxiety Symptom Questionnaire (MASQ) has been put forwards as a valid measure of the tripartite model of anxiety and depression symptoms. This research set out to examine the factor structure of anxiety and depression symptoms in a clinical sample to assess the MASQ's validity for use in this population.

Method: The present study uses confirmatory factor analytic methods to examine the psychometric properties of the MASQ in 470 outpatients with anxiety and mood disorder.

Results: The results showed that none of the previously reported two-factor, three-factor or five-factor models adequately fit the data, irrespective of whether items or subscales were used as the unit of analysis.

Conclusion: It was concluded that the factor structure of the MASQ in a mixed anxiety/ depression clinical sample does not support a structure consistent with the tripartite model. This suggests that researchers using the MASQ with anxious/depressed individuals should be mindful of the instrument's psychometric limitations.
Executive Functions in Obsessive–Compulsive Disorder: State or Trait Deficits?
Authors: Bannon Shelley , Gonsalvez Craig J. , Croft Rodney J. , Boyce Philip M.
Published: December 2009

Objective: Despite the neuropsychology literature providing reliable evidence of impaired executive functions in obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD), to date it has not been determined whether these deficits are trait-related (independent of symptomatology) or state-dependent (dependent on symptomatology). The current research examines the executive functions in OCD in a comprehensive manner and, for the first time, assesses the stability of these deficits over the developmental course of the disorder.

Method: Using a cross-sectional design, Study 1 examined the executive functions (set shifting, inhibition, planning, verbal fluency and working memory) in 60 subjects (20 actively Symptomatic OCD, 20 Remitted OCD and 20 Panic Disorder). Using a longitudinal design, Study 2 reassessed a subsample of OCD subjects (participants in Study 1) once they reached remitted status.

Results: Study 1 found that the OCD groups exhibited deficits in set shifting and inhibition relative to Panic Disorder controls; however, no deficits were observed in planning, verbal fluency or working memory. There were no differences found between the Symptomatic and Remitted OCD groups on any of the executive function measures. Study 2 found that the identified executive function deficits in individuals were stable over time and remained unchanged despite symptom remittance.

Conclusion: Current results confirm the presence of specific executive function deficits in OCD, and indicate that these deficits are trait-like in nature.
Impact of a Crisis Assessment and Treatment Service on Admissions into an Acute Psychiatric Unit
Authors: Adesanya Adesina
Published: December 2009

Objective: To assess the impact of a regional/rural crisis assessment and treatment service (CAT) on admissions into an acute adult inpatient psychiatric facility.

Methods: Relevant data for admissions into an acute adult inpatient psychiatric facility in the 18 month periods before and after the establishment of a CAT were compared. Data extracted from available clinical records were transferred into an appropriately structured pro forma for statistical analysis.

Results: There were 69 and 53 index inpatient unit admissions in the two time periods. The majority of these were for single, unemployed men aged in their 30s. Although statistically non-significant, the results appear to suggest that there were proportionately fewer readmissions and that admissions were likely to be influenced by illness severity and diagnostic considerations in the period following the establishment of the CAT. The establishment of CAT did not appear to have had much impact on the duration of psychiatric hospitalization.

Conclusions: Crisis assessment and treatment services operating within a re-gional/rural integrated mental health setting appear to have only limited impact on hospitalization for psychiatric crisis presentations. There is a need for further studies looking at a broader range of outcome variables in the assessment of the impact of CAT on psychiatric hospitalization in such settings.
The Beyondblue Schools Research Initiative: Conceptual Framework and Intervention
Authors: Spence Susan , Burns Jane , Boucher Susan , Glover Sara , Graetz Brian , Kay Debra , Patton George , Sawyer Michael
Published: December 2009

Objective: To describe the rationale, conceptual framework and content of the intervention for the beyondblue Schools Research Initiative.

Conclusions: The beyondblue Schools Research Initiative aims to prevent the development of depression in young people through increasing individual and environmental protective factors within the school context. The model draws on evidence that demonstrates the important role played by individual and environmental characteristics in buffering the impact of adversity. The school provides a forum in which both individual and environmental change may be produced in order to increase some of these key protective characteristics. The project also draws together health, education and other key services to provide more effective pathways to enable young people to receive professional help when required.
Mental Health Research in General Practice
Authors: Minas Harry , Klimidis Steven , Kokanovic Renata
Published: December 2009

Objective: To explore problems in carrying out a mental health research project in the general practice setting.

Method: Open-ended interviews were conducted with general practice stakeholders, focusing on impediments to the conduct of mental health research in general practice and possible means for improving the participation of general practitioners in such research. Participants in the consultations were members of ?ve divisions of general practice, senior staff within an academic department of general practice, four general practitioners and a research group engaged with general practice research. The discussions were recorded in detailed interview notes, and key issues and themes emerging from consultations were derived by the researchers.

Results: Three main themes summarized most of the issues reported through the consultations, including structural issues (e.g. disruption of practice, time limitations and lack of remuneration), process issues (e.g. researcher–general practice communication, researcher-imposed issues and need for partnerships) and content issues (e.g. study design, study procedures and methods).

Conclusions: The consultations revealed similar ?ndings to previously published reports concerning general practice research, with an emphasis on the need for partnerships between researchers and general practice organizations in the conduct of such research.
A Model of Supervision in Mental Health for General Practitioners
Authors: Hodgins Gene , Judd Fiona , Kyrios Michael , Murray Greg , Cope Andrew , Sasse Christina
Published: December 2009

Objective: If general practitioners (GPs) are to provide effective ongoing care to patients with mental health difficulties, it is argued that they need access to effective supervision. This paper aims to describe a specific framework for the provision of supervision to GPs involved in mental health-related work in a rural area.

Conclusions: An innovative model of supervision is currently being trialled with GP practices in the Bendigo area of country Victoria. It is essential for a formal supervision framework to be available for GPs in mental health, so that effective outcomes in primary mental health care are maximized, facilitating better support for GPs and better outcomes for patients with mental health difficulties.
The New South Wales Inebriates Act: Going, Going, Gone?
Authors: Shea Peter
Published: December 2009

Objective: To describe how the use of psychiatric hospitals as institutions for inebriates came about in New South Wales.

Conclusions: A so-called ‘temporary’ solution to a political problem in 1929 led to the psychiatric hospitals in New South Wales becoming repositories for inebriates for the next 75 years. This unsatisfactory situation may be about to change.
The Society That Almost Wasn't: Issues of Professional Identity and the Creation of The American Phytopathological Society in 1908
Authors: Peterson Paul D. , Scholthof Karen-Beth G.
Published: December 2009

The creation of The American Phytopathological Society (APS) in 1908 was a response to the developing professionalism in the biological and agricultural sciences in the United States between 1880 and 1920. During this period, a new generation of plant pathologists emerged in the United States Department of Agriculture, agricultural colleges, and state agricultural experiment stations with a methodological and theoretical framework to determine the cause and nature of disease and make control recommendations based on experimental evidence. These plant pathologists, in turn, became eager to establish a professional identity, for some an identity separate from traditional botany and mycology. For these scientists, the goal would be facilitated by establishing a new society for plant pathologists. The story of the creation of APS is best understood within the nature of the ensuing debates over identity and the merits of forming a new society among its first generation of scientists.
Monitoring Fusarium Crown Rot Populations in Spring Wheat Residues Using Quantitative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction
Authors: Hogg A. C. , Johnston R. H. , Johnston J. A. , Klouser L. , Kephart K. D. , Dyer A. T.
Published: December 2009

Caused by a complex of Fusarium species including F. culmorum, F. graminearum, and F. pseudograminearum, Fusarium crown rot (FCR) is an important cereal disease worldwide. For this study, Fusarium population dynamics were examined in spring wheat residues sampled from dryland field locations near Bozeman and Huntley, MT, using a quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) Taqman assay that detects F. culmorum, F. graminearum, and F. pseudograminearum. Between August 2005 and June 2007, Fusarium populations and residue decomposition were measured eight times for standing stubble (0 to 20 cm above the soil surface), lower stem (20 to 38 cm), middle stem (38 to 66 cm), and chaff residues. Large Fusarium populations were found in stubble collected in August 2005 from F. pseudograminearum-inoculated plots. These populations declined rapidly over the next 8 months. Remnant Fusarium populations in inoculated stubble were stable relative to residue biomass from April 2006 until June 2007. These two phases of population dynamics were observed at both locations. Relative to inoculated stubble populations, Fusarium populations in other residue fractions and from noninoculated plots were small. In no case were FCR species observed aggressively colonizing noninfested residues based on qPCR data. These results suggest that Fusarium populations are unstable in the first few months after harvest and do not expand into noninfested wheat residues. Fusarium populations remaining after 8 months were stable for at least another 14 months in standing stubble providing significant inoculums for newly sown crops.
Polyethylene Mulch Modifies Greenhouse Microclimate and Reduces Infection of Phytophthora infestans in Tomato and Pseudoperonospora cubensis in Cucumber
Authors: Shtienberg D. , Elad Y. , Bornstein M. , Ziv G. , Grava A. , Cohen S.
Published: December 2009

The individual and joint effects of covering the soil with polyethylene mulch before planting and fungicides commonly used by organic growers on tomato late blight (caused by Phytophthora infestans) were studied in three experiments conducted from 2002 to 2005. Application of fungicides resulted in inconsistent and insufficient late blight suppression (control efficacy ± standard error of 34.5 ± 14.3%) but the polyethylene mulch resulted in consistent, effective, and highly significant suppression (control efficacy of 83.6 ± 5.5%) of the disease. The combined effect of the two measures was additive. In a second set of three experiments carried out between 2004 and 2006, it was found that the type of polyethylene mulch used (bicolor aluminized, clear, or black) did not affect the efficacy of late blight suppression (control efficacy of 60.1 to 95.8%) and the differences in the effects among the different polyethylene mulches used were insignificant. Next, the ability of the mulch to suppress cucumber downy mildew (caused by Pseudoperonospora cubensis) was studied in four experiments carried out between 2006 and 2008. The mulch effectively suppressed cucumber downy mildew but the effect was less substantial (control efficacy of 34.9 ± 4.8%) than that achieved for tomato late blight. The disease-suppressing effect of mulch appeared to come from a reduction in leaf wetness duration, because mulching led to reductions in both the frequency of nights when dew formed and the number of dew hours per night when it formed. Mulching also reduced relative humidity in the canopy, which may have reduced sporulation.
Discovery of a novel type of body scale in the marine dinoflagellate, Amphidinium cupulatisquama sp. nov. (Dinophyceae)
Authors: Tamura Maiko , Takano Yoshihito , Horiguchi Takeo
Published: December 2009

A new species of Amphidinium, A. cupulatisquama Tamura et Horiguchi, from sand samples from Ikei Island, Okinawa Prefecture in subtropical Japan, is described based on light, scanning and transmission electron microscopy and the partial sequencing of the large subunit rDNA gene. The species has a typical morphology for the genus, but is distinguished from previously described species by having a combination of the following characteristics: (i) a relatively large cell (over 30 µm in length); (ii) possessing an eyespot on the dorsal side of the cingulum; (iii) the longitudinal flagellum emerging from a point close to the cingulum; (iv) cell division taking place in the motile phase; and (v) possessing body scales. This is the third species of this genus to possess body scales. The body scales of A. cupulatisquama are uniform and cup‐shaped in side view and elliptical in face view. Their dimensions are 136.4 nm by 91.0 nm by 81.8 nm high. In side view, the scale is seen to have a thick lower half and a thin upper half. This scale type is very different from those of previously reported Amphidinium species (HG114 and HG115). The molecular tree indicated that A. cupulatisquama and the two other strains of body scale‐bearing Amphidinium are distantly related within the Amphidinium clade.
ENDOPHTHALMITIS FOLLOWING CATARACT EXTRACTION
Authors: McCLELLAN K. , COSTER D. J. , BADENOCH P. R. , SANDERS R. , CHANDRARATNAM E. , KUPA A.
Published: December 2009

We describe a case of bacterial endophthalmitis complicating routine cataract extraction and intraocular lens implantation in a 97‐year‐old woman. The ocular and systemic factors that may have predisposed to intraocular infection in this case, and the possibility of predicting these pre‐operatively, are discussed.
Sex differences in language first appear in gesture
Authors: Özçalışkan Şeyda , Goldin‐Meadow Susan
Published: December 2009

Children differ in how quickly they reach linguistic milestones. Boys typically produce their first multi‐word sentences later than girls do. We ask here whether there are sex differences in children’s gestures that precede, and presage, these sex differences in speech. To explore this question, we observed 22 girls and 18 boys every 4 months as they progressed from one‐word speech to multi‐word speech. We found that boys not only produced speech + speech (S+S) combinations (‘drink juice’) 3 months later than girls, but they also produced gesture + speech (G+S) combinations expressing the same types of semantic relations (‘eat’ + point at cookie) 3 months later than girls. Because G+S combinations are produced earlier than S+S combinations, children’s gestures provide the first sign that boys are likely to lag behind girls in the onset of sentence constructions.
Learning design and assessment with e‐tivities
Authors: Armellini Alejandro , Aiyegbayo Olaojo
Published: December 2009

This paper reported on the findings of research into innovation in e‐learning design and assessment through the development and implementation of online learning activities (e‐tivities). The focus of the study was on Carpe Diem as a process to enable academic course teams to seize 2 days to design and embed pedagogically appropriate e‐tivities into their courses. The study also addressed the use of technology in the design of e‐tivities and the level of tutor and learner engagement with them during course delivery. Six academic course teams representing three disciplines at four British universities took part in this 12‐month study. Cognitive mapping was the main research methodology used. The results suggested that Carpe Diem is an effective and powerful team‐based process to foster pedagogical change and innovation in learning design and assessment practices. The e‐tivities designed during Carpe Diem were successfully used primarily for learning and formative assessment, and exceptionally for summative assessment. Web 2.0 tools, especially wikis, were employed to enable collaborative online learning and were prominent in the new designs. The tutors' e‐moderation skills were key to engage learners and thus capitalise on the benefits of e‐tivities.
Pensions as Psychological Contracts: Implications for Work Outcomes
Authors: LUCHAK ANDREW A. , POHLER DIONNE M.
Published: December 2009

Drawing on psychological contract theory, we develop predictions regarding the moderating influence of the meaning employees assign to their marginal quit costs, as well as on the role of stayer perceptions and saver effects, on various work outcomes under a defined‐benefit pension. Results show pension incentives can have favorable or unfavorable effects depending on whether employees perceive them as supportive relational contracts or as low‐trust transactional contracts. Implications for research and policy are discussed.
Imaging tumor angiogenesis with fluorescent proteins
Authors: HOFFMAN ROBERT M.
Published: December 2009

We have developed three unique mouse models to image angiogenesis with fluorescent proteins, which are described in this review. First, we have adapted the surgical orthotopic implantation (SOI) model to image angiogenesis of human tumors labeled with green fluorescent protein (GFP) transplanted in nude mice. The nonluminous induced capillaries are clearly visible by contrast against the very bright tumor fluorescence examined either intravitally or by whole‐body imaging in real time. Intravital images of an SOI model of human pancreatic tumors expressing GFP visualized angiogenic capillaries at both primary and metastatic sites. Whole‐body optical imaging showed that blood vessel density increased linearly over a 20‐week period in an SOI model of human breast cancer expressing GFP. Opening a reversible skin‐flap in the light path markedly reduces signal attenuation, increasing detection sensitivity many‐fold and enabling vessels to be externally visualized in GFP‐expressing tumors growing on internal organs. The second model utilizes dual‐color fluorescence imaging, effected by using red fluorescent protein (RFP)‐expressing tumors growing in GFP‐expressing transgenic mice that express GFP in all cells. This dual‐color model visualizes with great clarity the details of the tumor‐stroma interaction, especially tumor‐induced angiogenesis. The GFP‐expressing tumor vasculature, both nascent and mature, are readily distinguished interacting with the RFP‐expressing tumor cells. Using a spectral imaging system based on liquid crystal tunable filters, we were able to separate individual spectral species on a pixel‐by‐pixel basis. Such techniques non‐invasively visualized the presence of host GFP‐expressing vessels within an RFP‐labeled orthotopic human breast tumor by real‐time whole‐body imaging. The third model involves a transgenic mouse in which the regulatory elements of the stem cell marker nestin drive GFP. The nestin‐GFP mouse expresses GFP in areas of the brain, hair follicle stem cells, and in a network of blood vessels in the skin interconnecting hair follicles. RFP‐expressing tumors transplanted to nestin‐GFP mice enable specific visualization of nascent vessels in skin‐growing tumors such as melanoma. Thus, fluorescent proteins expressed in vivo offer very high resolution and sensitivity for real‐time imaging of angiogenesis.
AMACR is not applicable as a diagnostic tool in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: WILLEMOE GRO LINNO , VAINER BEN
Published: December 2009

Willemoe GL, Vainer B. AMACR is not applicable as a diagnostic tool in hepatocellular carcinoma. APMIS 2010; 118: 85–90.

α‐methylacyl coenzyme A racemase (AMACR or P504S) is a mitochondrial and peroxisomal protein present in a variety of human cells. Demonstration of increased expression is used diagnostically in prostatic adenocarcinoma. AMACR is also produced by normal hepatocytes and it has been postulated that the demonstration of AMACR expression or its pattern of distribution is useful in the diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) (Jiang et al., Hum Pathol 2003;34, Guzman et al., Appl Immunohistochem Mol Morphol 2006;14, Li et al., J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2008;27). The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether immunohistochemical staining for AMACR can be used in a routine histopathologic setting. Immunohistochemical staining for AMACR was performed on paraffin‐embedded tissue from livers resected for HCC during 1980–2006 at Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark (n = 44). Tumor sections as well as surrounding non‐neoplastic tissues were studied. In both tumor and non‐tumor tissues, intracellular localization and staining pattern were assessed and the staining intensity of AMACR was graded. The fraction of stained tumor cells was not significantly different from that of stained non‐tumor cells in the same patients (p = 0.97). A significantly lower staining intensity was observed in clear cell areas (p = 0.005), but the AMACR expression did not correlate with the HCC type and could not distinguish neoplastic from non‐neoplastic liver cells. AMACR is not applicable as a tool in the histopathologic diagnosis of HCC.
Mexican American Adolescents' Family Caregiving: Selection Effects and Longitudinal Associations With Adjustment
Authors: East Patricia L. , Weisner Thomas S.
Published: December 2009

One hundred ten Mexican American adolescents (12–17 years) who provide infant care for their older sisters were studied to determine the effects of family caregiving responsibilities on adolescents' adjustment. Controlling for prior adjustment and family context factors, providing many hours of caregiving predicted an increase in youths' school absences and disciplinary problems. Frequent conflict surrounding caregiving was associated with increased stress and depression and lower school grades. Older girls appear to select into caregiving and experience the most problematic outcomes. Strong family obligations were not protective against caregiving stress but, rather, further compromised youths' well‐being for those who were highly involved in their family'scare.
EFFECT OF CRYOPROTECTANT MIXTURES ON RHEOLOGICAL PROPERTIES OF FRESH AND FROZEN/THAWED MASHED POTATOES
Authors: ALVAREZ MARÍA DOLORES , FERNÁNDEZ CRISTINA , CANET WENCESLAO
Published: December 2009

Hydrocolloids and protein were added to fresh (F) and frozen/thawed (F/T) mashed potatoes in the form of mixtures of: (1) amidated low‐methoxyl (ALM) pectin and xanthan gum (XG); (2) kappa‐carrageenan (k‐C) and XG; and (3) sodium caseinate (SC) and XG. F and F/T mashed potatoes without added biopolymers and with XG at 1.5 g/kg were also analyzed. Flow curves fit the power law and Casson models well – and preferentially the first of these. The Cox–Merz rule was not applicable to the steady and dynamic shear data on all of the mashed potatoes. In the F products, the departure of mashed potatoes–biopolymer mixtures from the Cox–Merz rule was XG concentration‐dependent. It was concluded that most of the F mashed potatoes followed the linear modified Cox–Merz rule, with η*(ω) and ηa() well superimposed. However, after processing, the linearity – or otherwise of the relationship between viscosities – was more dependent on the type of biopolymer mixture. Also, in the case of the F/T mashed potatoes without added biopolymers and with added ALM/XG binary mixtures, the relationships may be considered linear. Conversely, in the case of F/T mashed potatoes with added XG alone and mixed with k‐C and SC, small amplitude dynamic properties cannot be used directly to predict changes in texture perceived in the mouth given that the relationship between these properties and steady shear measurements is nonlinear. The effects of addition of either XG alone or binary mixtures to F and F/T mashed potatoes were very dependent on the magnitude of the strain deformation applied to the system (i.e., low strain in oscillatory shear and high strain in steady shear).

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Mashed potato can be a suitable food for freezing as a ready‐meal component or as a single product in the form of potato gratin. Freezing and thawing processes reduce most of the quality parameters measured in the product. One way of minimizing damage from freezing and thawing is to incorporate cryoprotectants to alter crystal shapes. Previous studies have shown that xanthan gum (XG) is preferred for sensory purposes because of its creamy mouthfeel. The result of this study could serve as a guide for thickening of mashed potatoes by addition of a kappa‐carrageenan (k‐C)/XG blend, and also for softening of the product by addition of a sodium caseinate (SC)/XG mix together. These data have served as a resource in order to further explore the utilization of XG mixed with either k‐C or SC in developing commercially prepared frozen/thawed mashed potatoes.
Hypericin Hydroquinone: Potential as a Red‐Far Red Photosensitizer?
Authors: Theodossiou Theodossis A. , Tsiourvas Dimitris , Hothersall John S.
Published: December 2009

Hypericin hydroquinone is the product of two‐electron reduction of hypericin (quinone), a potent phenanthroperylenequinone photosensitizer. In contrast to the quinone, the hydroquinone exhibits strong absorbance in the far‐red spectral region. Herein we provide initial evidence on the potential of hypericin hydroquinone as a far‐red photosensitizer.
Psychosocial Factors, Quality of Life, and Psychological Distress: Ethnic Differences in Patients with Heart Failure
Authors: Bean Melanie K. , Gibson Douglas , Flattery Maureen , Duncan Angela , Hess Michael
Published: December 2009

Advances in treatment have prolonged life in heart failure (HF) patients, leading to increased attention to quality of life (QOL) and psychological functioning. It is not clear if ethnic differences exist in factors associated with psychological well‐being. We examined psychosocial factors associated with depression and anxiety in 97 HF patients. Medical records were reviewed and patients (M age 53, 50% African American) completed surveys examining social support, coping, spirituality, and QOL for their association with depression and anxiety. Multiple regressions suggested that psychosocial factors were associated with psychological health. Patients with lower social support, lower meaning/peace and more negative coping reported greater depression; positive coping, and lower meaning/peace were associated with higher anxiety. Ethnicity stratified models suggested that spiritual well‐being was associated with depression only among African Americans and QOL partially mediated this relationship. Findings suggest the importance of considering the unique psychosocial needs of diverse populations to appropriately target clinical interventions.
Visiting Preferences of Cardiovascular Patients
Authors: Carroll Diane L. , Gonzalez Colleen E.
Published: December 2009

The purpose of this study is to compare differences in patient preferences for visitors during hospitalization for a cardiovascular event specifically comparing cardiac intensive care unit (CICU) patients to those on cardiac step down units (SDU). A convenience sample 63 subjects from the CICU, mean age of 61.2 ± 14.4 years, 21 males and 41 females, were compared with 61 subjects, mean age of 67.9 ± 14.4 years, 15 females and 46 males, on the “Patient's Perception of Visits in the Hospital” questionnaire. The CICU patient perceived higher value for visiting specifically because visitors assisted with interpretation of information (P<.02), were calming (P<.05), providing information about them to staff (P<.01), helped with care (P<.000), and reinforced treatments (P<.004). There were no differences in total stressor score between CICU and SDU patients, though the CICU patient worried more about their visitors traveling (P<.025). The SDU patient perceived that visitors were disruptive to rest (P<.001) and that visitors intensified their pain (P<.008). The majority of patients preferred unlimited visiting hours, with 3 visitors at a time, and some limits on children. Text data identified unlimited visiting for close family members, the benefit of support from visitors, and the stress of lengthy visits. These data provide voice to cardiovascular patient's perception of visitors.
Updated Functional Classification of β-Lactamases
Authors: Bush Karen , Jacoby George A.
Published: December 2009

Two classification schemes for β-lactamases are currently in use. The molecular classification is based on the amino acid sequence and divides β-lactamases into class A, C, and D enzymes which utilize serine for β-lactam hydrolysis and class B metalloenzymes which require divalent zinc ions for substrate hydrolysis. The functional classification scheme updated herein is based on the 1995 proposal by Bush et al. (K. Bush, G. A. Jacoby, and A. A. Medeiros, Antimicrob. Agents Chemother. 39:1211-1233, 1995). It takes into account substrate and inhibitor profiles in an attempt to group the enzymes in ways that can be correlated with their phenotype in clinical isolates. Major groupings generally correlate with the more broadly based molecular classification. The updated system includes group 1 (class C) cephalosporinases; group 2 (classes A and D) broad-spectrum, inhibitor-resistant, and extended-spectrum β-lactamases and serine carbapenemases; and group 3 metallo-β-lactamases. Several new subgroups of each of the major groups are described, based on specific attributes of individual enzymes. A list of attributes is also suggested for the description of a new β-lactamase, including the requisite microbiological properties, substrate and inhibitor profiles, and molecular sequence data that provide an adequate characterization for a new β-lactam-hydrolyzing enzyme.
Polyphosphate granules in eucalypt mycorrhizas: determination by energy dispersive x-ray microanalysis
Authors: Ashford A. E. , Peterson R. L. , Dwarte D. , Chilvers G. A.
Published: December 2009

Eucalypt mycorrhizas contain electron-opaque granules that are rich in P. The major element accompanying P is Ca, although small amounts of other elements such as K and Mg and possibly also S are sometimes present. Neither P nor Ca was found in equivalent amounts in other areas of the cells analysed. The P-rich granules occurred in vacuoles in the inner sheath and Hartig net of the two species studied, Eucalyptus pilularis and Eucalyptus fastigata. Their location and staining indicated that they were the same as the metachromatic granules observed by light microscopy and that both contained polyphosphate. Other deposits in vacuoles did not contain detectable amounts of these elements and correlated transmission electron microscopy showed that several types of vacuolar deposit were present. Fixation conditions had little effect on the composition of the P-rich granules, which were the same in both species, but staining with lead salts apparently removed elements, in particular Ca. Other cellular materials, notably phenols, also stained with lead salts, even at acid pH, and there is a risk therefore of misidentifying vacuolar phenols as polyphosphate. The significance of the P-rich granules and their high Ca content is discussed in relation to P accumulation in the fungal sheath and transfer to the host.
Pollen exine substructure. III. Juniperus communis
Authors: Southworth Darlene
Published: December 2009

Acetolyzed exines of Juniperus communis extracted with hot 2-aminoethanol were prepared for electron microscopy. The strongly osmiophilic, homogeneous exine first becomes granular. With further extraction, granules are observed to surround unstained polygonal regions. The connections between granules are then broken leading to compound polygons, open polygons, and finally detached pieces. Orbicules and exine-1 are completely removed. The pattern of structural change is similar to that observed in Lilium longiflorum and in Fagus sylvatica.
The preparation and use of a fluorescent antibody reagent for the detection of Fusarium vasinfectum
Authors: Kumar S. Umesh , Kalyanasundaram R. , Kumar Vasanthi U.
Published: December 2009

The preparation and use of a strain-specific fluorescent antibody reagent is described for specific identification of a virulent strain of Fusarium vasinfectum Atk., in host tissues of Gossypium arboreum, var. K7 and in soil. Methods are discussed to eliminate autofluorescence of host tissues and soil.
Growth and morphogenesis in short-term nodal cultures of an apple rootstock in vitro
Authors: Hicks G. S. , Nair A.
Published: December 2009

Nodal cultures of a cold-hardy apple rootstock were inoculated and grown for 18 days on Murashige – Skoog medium supplemented with benzylaminopurine (BAP). The axillary buds (primary buds) require benzylaminopurine at 0.1 or 1.0 mg L−1 for optimal development as measured by the increase of fresh and dry weights, frequency of buds with expanded leaves, and development of new (secondary) buds from microscopic axillaries on the primary bud. Growth of the original axillary bud was reduced in the absence of the single subtending leaf, but there was no reduction in bud growth when BAP was supplied during the first 3 days. However, secondary bud growth required both the continuous supply of 1.0 mg L−1 BAP and the presence of the subtending leaf.
The influence of plant temperature on photosynthesis and translocation rates in bean and soybean
Authors: Marowitch J. , Richter C. , Hoddinott J.
Published: December 2009

Phaseolus vulgaris cv. Black Valentine and Glycine max cv. Maple Arrow and cv. Evans were grown at 20 °C. They were pruned to a simple source – sink system and placed in a steady-state 14C-labeling system, where their photosynthesis and translocation rates were determined at the growth temperature. The temperature of each plant was then raised or lowered and the rates were measured again. All three varieties showed net photosynthetic optima near the growth temperature. Translocation rates increased sigmoidally from 5 to 35 °C in Phaseolus, giving a decreasing Q10 value, but exponentially from 5 to 40 °C in Glycine, giving a Q10 of about 2.0. Rates were suboptimal at the highest temperatures used. Plants grown at 30 °C and exposed to higher or lower temperatures responded in parallel to the 20 °C grown plants. When grown at 12.5 °C and exposed to higher temperatures, the plants responded in parallel to the 20 °C grown ones, but at lower temperatures translocation was higher than predicted for cv. Maple Arrow.
Interactions between aphid infestation and plant growth and uptake of nitrogen and phosphorus by three leguminous host plants
Authors: Hawkins C. D. B. , Whitecross M. I. , Aston M. J.
Published: December 2009

The effects of cowpea aphids (Aphis craccivora Koch) and pea aphids (Acyrthosiphon pisum (Harris)), both Homptera: Aphididae, on nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) uptake by and growth of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. cv. Caloona), broad bean (Vicia faba L. cv. Aquadulce), and garden pea (Pisum sativum L. cv. Victory Freezer) seedlings were investigated. After 10 days of aphid infestation, all leaf areas were significantly lower in infested plants, and plant dry weight, mean relative growth rate, and unit leaf rate were significantly lower in all plant–aphid combinations except for pea – pea aphids. The mean leaf area ratio was the same for infested and control plants indicating that infested plants did not reallocate their assimilate resources in response to aphid feeding. The accumulation of N and P as a percentage of plant dry weight did not differ between control and infested plants and was specific to the species examined. However, control plants all had greater absolute amounts of N and P after 10 days. Even though the responses of the plants to aphid feeding were similar, the accumulation of N and P appears to be a plant species specific phenomenon.
Vegetation patterns within southern Alberta coulees
Authors: Coxson Darwyn S. , Looney John Henry H.
Published: December 2009

Native grassland communities located in coulees near Lethbridge, Alberta, were studied to identify the associations present and the environmental factors influencing them. The vegetation along 16 transects was described using point quadrants, with additional study sites analyzed for soil and environmental variables. The data were analyzed using detrended correspondence analysis and indicator species analysis (TWINSPAN) and the results are discussed in relation to recognized plant associations. The primary environmental factor affecting the distribution of these associations is a xeric–mesic gradient, which is discussed in terms of site topography and the physiological requirements of Agropyron smithii and Bouteloua gracilis. A disjunct Festuca scabrella community is recognized and implications of this are discussed.
Heteroblastic seedlings of green ash. I. Predictability of leaf form and primordial length
Authors: Merrill E. K.
Published: December 2009

Green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica var. subintegerrima) seedlings are heteroblastic; during development they produce two types of leaves, simple and compound. When grown under controlled conditions, the sequence of leaf types is predictable. Simple leaves are always at the first four nodes; compound leaves are always at node 8 and above. Nodes 5 through 7 have progressively fewer simple leaves and more compound leaves. Leaf growth on seedlings meets the preconditions of the plastochron index and leaf plastochron index. These indices, as well as the length of single expanding leaves, can be used to predict lengths of leaf primordia at nodes 4 and 8 so that early, simple and compound leaf development can be compared in further studies of green ash.
Factors affecting 13C/12C ratios of inland halophytes. I. Controlled studies on growth and isotopic composition of Puccinellia nuttalliana
Authors: Guy Robert D. , Reid David M. , Krouse H. Roy
Published: December 2009

Studies on various factors affecting the growth and stable carbon isotope composition of the graminaceous C3 halophyte Puccinellia nuttalliana (Schultes) Hitch. were initiated as a step towards interpreting δ13C variations in nature. For isotope analysis, combustion at 900 °C resulted in higher CO2 yield than at 550 °C but did not affect δ13C values. Differences in δ13C between leaves of different insertion level were unimportant, but roots were about 1‰ more positive than shoots. Trends in δ13C with salinity were the same in all plant parts. Depressions of growth by NaCl or Na2SO4 were similar, but plants grown in Na2SO4 displayed a greater shift in δ13C relative to controls. Growth rates were affected more by salinity than were previously reported photosynthetic rates. At typical salinities, δ13C changed linearly with salinity. The supply of nitrate to stressed and unstressed plants had no important influence on δ13C. Growth in polyethylene glycol produced δ13C values consistent with a high level of stress. After a salinity step-up, changes in δ13C were complete within 10 days. During winter, data were found to be heavily influenced by unintentional, human-respired CO2 enrichment. This represents a potentially serious research problem in laboratories of temperate climes.
Crocus sativus pollen germination and pollen tube growth in vitro and after intraspecific and interspecific pollination
Authors: Chichiricco G. , Caiola M. Grilli
Published: December 2009

The germination and tube growth of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) pollen were studied in vitro (in liquid media) and in vivo in pistils of Crocus sativus and Crocus thomasii after intraspecific and interspecific pollinations. In vitro about 20% of the saffron pollen grains germinated, but only about 9% developed a pollen tube. Although 21% of the pollen germinated on the stigmas, most pollen tubes ceased growth in the pistil and only a low percentage (about 6% of germinated grains) reached the ovary, where few of the ovules (about 5%) were penetrated. The defective germination and pollen tube growth were correlated with the occurrence of cytological abnormalities of the saffron pollen. Moreover, the ovarian transmitting tissue appeared to prevent the penetration of the ovules.
Potential role of soil moisture deficit in the distribution of Cakile edentula
Authors: Tyndall R. Wayne , Teramura Alan H. , Douglass Larry W.
Published: December 2009

Soil water potential, leaf water potential, and stomatal conductance of Cakile edentula (Bigelow) Hooker were compared between beach and foredune habitats on Currituck Bank, North Carolina. All three variables were significantly lower on the foredune than on the beach. Low soil water potential on the foredune may contribute to low survival and growth inhibition by lowering leaf water potential and stomatal conductance.
Anatomy of first-order roots in the Cyclanthaceae (Monocotyledoneae). II. Stele (excluding pericycle)
Authors: Wilder George J.
Published: December 2009

Xylem always develops within xylem fascicles, and the phloem either comprises phloem fascicles or is dispersed. Xylem and phloem fascicles may be encircled by a sheath of cells different from cells of the interfascicular tissue. The interfascicular tissue is either homogeneous, i.e., consisting of fibers, or heterogeneous, i.e., formed of fiber aggregates and a parenchymatous and (or) sclerenchymatous intrusive network. This network is interpreted as modified pith. A true pith is often present, and four kinds of true pith are recognized.
Ecological characteristics of 35-year-old crude-oil spills in tundra plant communities of the Mackenzie Mountains, N.W.T.
Authors: Kershaw G. Peter , Kershaw Linda J.
Published: December 2009

In June 1945 the CANOL Crude Oil Pipeline No. 1 from Norman Wells, Northwest Territories, to Whitehorse, Yukon Territory, was abandoned. During its short history, approximately 17 838 500 L of oil was lost through spills and 9 864 400 L was left in the line and storage tanks. Although some burning was done during salvage operations, most residual oil was drained onto the soil surface. Studies in alpine tundra indicate that this oil penetrated up to 60 cm in dry, coarse-textured soils and 8 cm in wet, clay-rich soils. Oil decomposition ranged from complete utilization of n-alkanes to selective metabolism of n-alkanes C12 to C19. Contaminated soils were drier than control soils. This, plus surface blackening and thinning or organic surface layers, resulted in subsurface warming. Floristic similarity coefficients comparing control sites and 27 crude-oil spills varied from 19 to 52. Plant cover was substantially lower on oil spills and in only one community was floristic diversity greater on oil spills than on associated control sites. Dominant colonizers included Cladonia pocillum, Cladonia pyxidata, Rinodina roscida, Carex aquatilis, Carex membranacea, Carex scirpoidea, Epilobium angustifolium, Eriophorum angustifolium, Festuca altaica, Juncus albescens, Poa alpina, Salix planifolia, Solidago multiradiata, and Trisetum spicatum.
Ontogenèse des canaux sécréteurs d'origine primaire dans le bourgeon de Pin maritime
Authors: Charon J. , Launay J. , Vindt-Balguerie E.
Published: December 2009

In the bud of Pinus pinaster Ait., two resin ducts are formed at the base of each very young scale on each side of the procambial strand. They differentiate in the acropetal and basipetal directions as do the vascular tissues. During the basipetal differentiation, the resin ducts from each scale anastomose in a definite way: the left resin duct of each scale is connected with the right duct of the n – 8 scale rank and the right duct, with the left duct of the n – 5 scale rank. The resin canal system of the shoot is then constituted of only 13 resin ducts. The resin ducts of the maritime pine are formed on a schizolysigenous pattern: a schizogenous process induces the formation of the lumen; then a transitory stage with two secretory layers takes place before a lysigenous process which enhances the enlargement of the duct lumen. Observations were done using light and electron microscopy.
Highly basic cyanogen bromide peptides from the proteins of turnip rosette virus and the Prunus strain of tomato bushy stunt virus
Authors: Tremaine J. H. , Ronald W. P.
Published: December 2009

The proteins of turnip rosette virus (TRosV) a sobemovirus, and the Prunus strain of tomato bushy stunt virus (TBSV-P) were cleaved with cyanogen bromide, and highly basic peptides were isolated by ion-exchange chromatography. The amino acid composition and sodium dodecyl sulphate – polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis indicated the basic peptide from TRosV had 40 amino acid residues, including 11 basic residues. This peptide had a composition similar to basic peptides isolated from the sobemoviruses, sowbane mosaic virus, and two strains of southern bean mosaic virus. The amino acid composition and size of the basic peptide from TBSV-P were similar to those found for the amino terminal sequence of the type strain of TBSV.
Distinguishing pollen characters for the Sapotaceae
Authors: Harley M. M.
Published: December 2009

The Sapotaceae is a well-defined pantropical family of about 900 species. Within it, however, there has been much controversy and little agreement over generic limits. The pollen of ca. 480 species have been examined in a worldwide morphological, palynological, and phytochemical generic survey of the family, carried out in collaboration with T. D. Pennington (New York Botanical Garden) and P. Waterman (University of Strathclyde). The pollen roughly separates into two groups, the first of which aligns with subfamilies Sideroxyloideae and Omphalocarpoideae, the second of which aligns with Mimu-sopoideae and Madhucoideae. Although pollen structure has been useful in helping to confirm the taxonomic position of one or two genera which were in doubt, it does not appear at present that it will be very effective in solving difficult taxonomic problems. Nevertheless the study has disclosed that the pollen possesses some interesting and characteristic structural elements which should prove useful in some instances for specific identification.
A 4-DAY OR A 3-DAY WORKWEEKS SCHEDULING PROBLEM WITH A GIVEN WORKFORCE SIZE
Authors: JARRAY FETHI
Published: December 2009

This paper presents an exact decomposition approach for an employee days-off scheduling problem of an homogeneous workforce under serval realistic days-off scheduling constraints. These constraints include the following: (1) each employee is assigned to three or four consecutive days-off per week, (2) each employee is assigned at least four consecutive days-off per month and (3) each employee is assigned at least a weekend off per month. A three-step decomposition method is used to obtain the work assignments while respecting the labor demands and the stated constraints.