bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pacemakers and implantable cardioverter defibrillators
Authors: Allen M.
Published: July 2006

An increasing number of patients are now treated cardiac pacemakers and implantable cardioverter defibrillators and the technology of these is constantly changing. It is vital to have a good understanding of how they function and what the real risks are. Understanding how the device should work when functioning normally, and the possible effects of electromagnetic interference, is paramount to their safe management in the peri‐operative period. Knowing when a device should be disabled or reprogrammed requires careful consideration. Information from the patient's pacemaker clinic should be sought whenever possible and can be invaluable. In addition, the Medicines Healthcare products Regulatory Agency have published the first set of UK guidelines on the management of implantable devices in the presence of surgical diathermy and this will undoubtedly provide a firm foundation on which anaesthetists can base much of their practice.
The use of pre‐operative intrathecal morphine for analgesia following coronary artery bypass surgery
Authors: Roediger L. , Joris J. , Senard M. , Larbuisson R. , Canivet J. L. , Lamy M.
Published: July 2006

With the emergence of rapid extubation protocols following cardiac surgery, providing adequate analgesia in the early postoperative period is important. This prospective randomised double‐blind study investigated the benefits of pre‐operative intrathecal administration of low dose morphine in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Postoperative analgesia, pulmonary function, stress response and postoperative recovery profile were assessed. Thirty patients were allocated into two groups, receiving either 500 μg of morphine intrathecally prior to anaesthesia and intravenous patient‐controlled analgesia with morphine postoperatively following tracheal extubation, or only postoperative intravenous patient‐controlled analgesia. In the intrathecal group, the total consumption of intravenous morphine following surgery was significantly reduced by 40% and patients reported lower pain scores at rest, during the first 24 h following extubation. Peak expiratory flow rate was greater and postoperative catecholamine release was significantly lower. Patients in the control group had a higher incidence of reduced respiratory rate following extubation.
The effect of cigarette smoking on the hypnotic efficacy of propofol
Authors: Lysakowski C. , Dumont L. , Czarnetzki C. , Bertrand D. , Tassonyi E. , Tramèr M. R.
Published: July 2006

The bispectral index (BIS) was used to examine the hypnotic efficacy of propofol in 25 smokers (20 cigarettes/day for 2 years) and 24 matched non‐smokers (same gender, age, height, weight). BIS was recorded at baseline, at four incremental effect‐site concentrations of propofol and at loss of consciousness. Compared with non‐smokers, smokers were found to have higher BIS values at baseline (mean (SD)) (97 (1)vs98 (1)), at 0.7 μg.ml−1(95 (3)vs97 (1)) and at 1.1 μg.ml−1(89 (6)vs94 (4)), p = 0.0099, and they lost consciousness at higher propofol concentrations (2.0 (0.4)vs2.4 (0.8) μg.ml−1), p = 0.03, and at lower BIS values (66 (10)vs60 (10)), p = 0.04. The hypnotic efficacy of propofol is reduced when used at low effect‐site concentrations in smokers. This phenomenon may have some impact on the management of smokers undergoing sedation using target controlled infusion systems.
Needle stick injuries: a comparison of practice and attitudes in two UK District General Hospitals*
Authors: Raghavendran S. , Bagry H. S. , Leith S. , Budd J. M.
Published: July 2006

Hospital staff are at risk from occupational exposure to blood‐borne viruses due to needle stick injuries. Occupational health departments have invested considerable resources in the prevention of these injuries, which can be very distressing to the affected individuals. We surveyed health care workers, i.e. doctors, nurses and operating department practitioners, in the operating theatre and critical care units of two UK hospitals located in the Midlands and Merseyside to compare attitudes and experiences. There were significant deficiencies in several aspects of the safe practice of universal precautions. These deficiencies were similar in the two hospitals surveyed and may reflect a national trend. We conclude that every individual, department and trust needs to reflect on their practice and address these deficiencies.
Drotrecogin alfa (activated) in severe falciparum malaria
Authors: Kendrick B. J. L. , Gray A. G. , Pickworth A. , Watters M. P. R.
Published: July 2006

Drotrecogin alfa (activated) is a drug licensed for the treatment of severe sepsis. We describe the care of a 61‐year‐old man who developed multi‐organ failure secondary to severe falciparum malaria infection with parasitaemia levels of 40%. Included in his care were an exchange blood transfusion and an infusion of Drotrecogin alfa (activated). Within hours of starting the infusion of Drotrecogin alfa (activated), the patient's clinical condition stopped deteriorating. Steady improvement followed with weaning from ventilatory assistance on day 14 post admission. The patient made a full recovery and was discharged home following rehabilitation. The indications for Drotrecogin alfa (activated) and the appropriateness of its use in severe malaria with multi‐organ failure are discussed. Drotrecogin alfa (activated) may be a useful treatment in patients with multi‐organ failure resulting from severe malaria.
Clinical implication of routine bacterial culture from epidural catheter tips in postoperative cancer patients: a prospective study
Authors: Mishra S. , Bhatnagar S. , Srikanti M. , Gupta D.
Published: July 2006

We conducted a prospective study to determine the epidural tip culture pattern and its clinical implication in postoperative cancer patients. All patients scheduled to undergo various cancer surgeries requiring epidural analgesia were included. Epidural catheter tips were sent for culture on removal. Of the 466 epidural catheter tips sent for culture, 27 showed a positive culture (5.7%). The commonest organism identified was Staphylococcus aureus. There were no signs of local or epidural space infection in any of the patients. The rates of epidural catheter tip cultures in cancer patients are comparable to those in the general patients and the presence of a positive tip culture is not a predictor of epidural space infection. Hence, we recommend that even in cancer patients, routine culture of epidural catheters is not advisable, provided strict asepsis is maintained at the time of insertion, and patients are constantly monitored for early signs of epidural infection.
Serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D3 concentrations and carotid artery intima‐media thickness among type 2 diabetic patients
Authors: Targher Giovanni , Bertolini Lorenzo , Padovani Roberto , Zenari Luciano , Scala Luca , Cigolini Massimo , Arcaro Guido
Published: July 2006

Objective  To estimate the prevalence of hypovitaminosis D among type 2 diabetic adults and to assess the relationship between hypovitaminosis D and intimal medial thickening (IMT) of the common carotid artery, a marker of preclinical atherosclerosis.

Design, patients and measurements  We compared winter serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D3 [25(OH)D] concentrations in 390 consecutive type 2 diabetic patients and 390 nondiabetic controls who were comparable for age and sex. Common carotid IMT was measured with ultrasonography only in diabetic patients by a single trained operator blinded to subjects’ details.

Results  The prevalence of hypovitaminosis D (i.e. 25(OH)D ≤ 37·5 nmol/l) was higher in diabetic patients (34·0 vs 16·4%, P < 0·001) than in controls. Among diabetic patients, those with hypovitaminosis D (n = 130) had a marked increase in common carotid IMT (1·10 ± 0·15 vs 0·87 ± 0·14 mm, P < 0·001) when compared with their vitamin d‐sufficient counterparts (n = 260). These patients also had significantly higher haemoglobin A1c, fibrinogen and C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP) concentrations. In multivariate regression analysis, low 25(OH)D concentrations independently predicted carotid IMT (P < 0·001) in people with type 2 diabetes after adjustment for classical risk factors, diabetes duration, HbA1c, calcium, renal function tests, inflammatory markers, use of medications, and presence of the metabolic syndrome (as defined by the Adult Treatment Panel III criteria).

Conclusions  Hypovitaminosis D is highly prevalent in type 2 diabetic adults and is strongly and independently associated with increased carotid IMT. Further investigation into whether vitamin D may play a role in the prevention of atherosclerosis appears to be warranted.
Male infertility and androgen receptor gene mutations: clinical features and identification of seven novel mutations
Authors: Ferlin Alberto , Vinanzi Cinzia , Garolla Andrea , Selice Riccardo , Zuccarello Daniela , Cazzadore Carla , Foresta Carlo
Published: July 2006

Objective  Androgens and a functioning androgen receptor (AR) are essential for development and maintenance of the male phenotype and spermatogenesis. Consistent with this, mutations in the AR gene cause a variety of defects related to androgen insensitivity, ranging from complete feminization to phenotypic males with infertility. The aim of his study was to analyse the prevalence of AR gene mutations in male infertility and to clarify the genotype‐phenotype relation.

Design  Males with infertility were recruited consecutively at the Centre for Male Gamete Cryopreservation at the University of Padova from January 1996 to January 2005.

Patients  One thousand five hundred and seventeen men with < 10 million sperm/ml and 310 age‐matched normozoospermic controls.

Methods  Screening for AR gene mutation was done by DHPLC and sequencing, and reproductive hormone concentrations were measured.

Results  We found 20 mutations in 26 of 1517 patients (1·7%) and no mutations in controls. A high number of mutations localized in exon 1 of the AR gene coding for the transactivation domain of the protein. Of 20 mutations, 7 represent novel mutations. With respect to men without AR mutations, subjects with AR mutations have lower ejaculate volume, higher testosterone levels, higher oestradiol levels, and higher androgen sensitivity index. However, the ranges for these variables were highly overlapping between men with and without AR gene mutations. Also clinical manifestations of AR mutations are not unique and 22 men had only spermatogenic impairment.

Conclusions  AR gene mutations are quite frequent in unselected infertile men but no specific hormonal or clinical data could be used to preselect patients at risk of mutations.
Lack of trade‐off between direct and indirect defence against grape powdery mildew in riverbank grape
Authors: ENGLISH‐LOEB GREG , NORTON ANDREW
Published: July 2006

Abstract 1. The hypothesis that plants that invest more in an indirect defence will invest less in direct mechanisms was tested using genotypes of the riverbank grape Vitis riparia that varied in expression of acarodomatia, tufts of non‐glandular trichomes on underside of leaves that are frequently occupied by mycophagous mites. Mycophagous mites in this system have been shown to protect vines from grape powdery mildew caused by the fungus Uncinula necator.

2. Multiple cane cuttings from 24 genotypes of V. riparia, a species native to North America, were obtained from the USDA grape genetics repository and planted out in a common garden.

3. Genotypes varied in size of acarodomatia by threefold and varied in density of mycophagous mites by over 10‐fold. Genotypes originating from the western part of the distribution had smaller acarodomatia and fewer mycophagous mites than genotypes from the eastern part of the distribution. There was a positive genetic correlation between acarodomatia size and mite density.

4. In a separate experiment, where vines were kept free of mycophagous mites, genotypes showed 10‐fold variation in percentage leaf surface colonised by mildew. There was, however, no relationship between mildew on leaves and size of acarodomatia. Mildew did not vary depending on origin of genotype, although female vines tended to have greater levels than males.

5. No evidence was found for a trade‐off between investment in an indirect defence mediated through acarodomatia and investment in direct defence against grape powdery mildew. Mite/plant defence mutualisms are contrasted with ant/plant defence mutualisms where there is better evidence for trade‐offs under field conditions.
Habitat temperature and the temporal scaling of cold hardening in the high Arctic collembolan,Hypogastrura tullbergi(Schäffer)
Authors: HAWES T. C. , COULDRIDGE C. E. , BALE J. S. , WORLAND M. R. , CONVEY P
Published: July 2006

Abstract1. Cold tolerance is a fundamental adaptation of insects to high latitudes. Flexibility in the cold hardening process, in turn, provides a useful indicator of the extent to which polar insects can respond to spatial and temporal variability in habitat temperature.

2. A scaling approach was adopted to investigate flexibility in the cold tolerance of the high Arctic collembolan,Hypogastrura tullbergi, over different time‐scales. The cold hardiness of animals was compared from diurnal warming and cooling phases in the field, and controlled acclimation and cooling treatments in the laboratory. Plasticity in acclimation responses was examined using three parameters: low temperature survival, cold shock survival, and supercooling points (SCPs).

3. Over time‐scales of 24–48 h, both field animals from warm diurnal phases and laboratory cultures from a ‘warm’ acclimation regime (18 °C) consistently showed greater or equivalent cold hardiness to animals from cool diurnal phases and acclimation regimes (3 °C).

4. No significant evidence was found of low temperature acclimation after either hours or days of low temperature exposure. The cold hardiness ofH. tullbergiremained ‘seasonal’ in character and mortality throughout was indicative of the summer state of acclimatization.

5. These data suggest thatH. tullbergiemploys an ‘all or nothing’ cryoprotective strategy, cold hardening at seasonal but not diel‐temporal scales.

6. It is hypothesised that rapid cold hardening offers little advantage to these high Arctic arthropods because sub‐zero habitat temperatures during the summer on West Spitsbergen are rare and behavioural migration into soil profiles offers sufficient buffering against low summer temperatures.
Long‐term variation in diet of Arctic char, Salvelinus alpinus, and brown trout, Salmo trutta: effects of changes in fish density and food availability
Authors: GREGERSEN F. , AASS P. , VØLLESTAD L. A. , L'ABÉE‐LUND J. H.
Published: July 2006

Abstract  The diet of Arctic char, Salvelinus alpinus (L.), and brown trout, Salmo trutta L., was studied in a large Norwegian reservoir over the first four decades (1954–1995) of regulation. Significant changes in diet occurred concurrent with changes in fish density and prey availability. Reduced biomass of fish due to the effect of hydropower development probably led to reduced inter‐ and intra‐specific competition. Consumption of zoobenthos increased for both species during the first decade, fish then became an important food item concurrent with an increase in small‐sized Arctic char in the littoral zone. The diet of Arctic char, but not brown trout, then changed radically as the introduced mysid, Mysis relicta Lovén, became an important food item.
Density and temperature dependence of gill net catch per unit effort for perch, Perca fluviatilis, and roach, Rutilus rutilus
Authors: LINLØKKEN A. , HAUGEN T. O.
Published: July 2006

Abstract  The densities of perch, Perca fluviatilis L., and roach, Rutilus rutilus (L.), were estimated in six and three lakes, respectively, using mark–recapture and ranged from 25–1064 perch ha−1 and 865–2749 roach ha−1. Effects of fish density, net type and water temperature on catch‐per‐unit‐effort (CPUE) were analysed by generalised linear models (GLM) and generalised additive models (GAM). GAMs were fitted to estimate the simultaneous linear and nonlinear effects of temperature and density on CPUE. These models showed significant nonlinear effects of density on CPUE – mostly for perch, and also for both species at high densities. The models also revealed that both species had distinct density–temperature criteria of expected maximum CPUE and zero CPUE values. Because of the nonlinear relationship between CPUE and density, it was concluded that CPUE should be used with caution as a proxy of density.
Differentiation between populations of a termite in eastern Africa: implications for biogeography
Authors: Wilfert Lena , Kaib Manfred , Durka Walter , Brandl Roland
Published: July 2006

Aim  African forests are divided by an arid corridor which runs from the Horn of Africa to the Namib Desert. Several forest species occur in the forests of eastern Africa as well as in the Guineo‐Congolian forest block. We evaluate the possibility that such species may have crossed the arid corridor along a route through the Kenyan Highlands and down the eastern drainages during climatologically favourable periods in the past.

Locations  Eastern Africa, Ivory Coast.

Methods  We used the termite species Schedorhinotermes lamanianus (Sjöstedt). This species occurs in lowland forests and woodland throughout Africa south of the Sahara. We sampled termites from 12 populations. We evaluated the differentiation between populations using amplified fragment length polymorphisms as well as morphometrical measurements.

Results  Genetic and morphometrical analysis demonstrated substantial differentiation between populations west and east of the arid corridor in Kenya. To the east of this corridor we found an increase of morphological distance with geographical distance. Schedorhinotermes lamanianus occurs not only along the coast but also at isolated locations (e.g. ground‐water forests in foothills) within the arid hinterland.

Main conclusions  We interpret these populations as remnants of a wider distribution during wet climatic periods. At these times, populations of S. lamanianus were apparently able to establish along extensive gallery forests protruding into the arid belt of the Kenyan hinterland. There have been no connections between populations of this species east and west of the arid corridor across the Kenyan Highlands.
Biogeographical comparison of the arthropod herbivore communities associated with Lepidium draba in its native, expanded and introduced ranges
Authors: Cripps Michael G. , Schwarzländer Mark , McKenney Jessica L. , Hinz Hariet L. , Price William J.
Published: July 2006

Aim  To examine the composition and structure of the arthropod community on the invasive weed Lepidium draba in its native, expanded and introduced ranges, in order to elucidate the lack of a biotic constraint that may facilitate invasion.

Location  Europe and western North America.

Methods  Identical sampling protocols were used to collect data from a total of 35 populations of L. draba in its native (Eastern European), expanded (Western European) and introduced (western US) ranges. A bootstrapping analysis was used to compare herbivore richness, diversity and evenness among the regions. Core species groups (monophages, oligophages and polyphages) on the plant were defined and their abundances and host utilization patterns described.

Results  Species richness was greatest in the native range, while species diversity and evenness were similar in the native and expanded range, but significantly greater than in the introduced range of L. draba. Specialist herbivore abundance was greater in the native and expanded compared with the introduced range. Oligophagous Brassicaceae‐feeders were equally abundant in all three ranges, and polyphagous herbivore abundance was significantly greater in the introduced range. Overall herbivore abundance was greater in the introduced range. Host utilization was more complete in the two European ranges due to monophagous herbivores that do not exist in the introduced range. Root feeders and gall formers were completely absent from the introduced range, which was dominated by generalist sap‐sucking herbivores. However, one indigenous stem‐mining weevil, Ceutorhynchus americanus, occurred on L. draba in the introduced range.

Main conclusions  This is, to our knowledge, the first study documenting greater herbivore abundance on an invasive weed in its introduced, compared with its native, range. However, greater abundance does not necessarily translate to greater impact. We argue that, despite the greater total herbivore abundance in the introduced range, differences in the herbivore community structure (specialist vs. generalist herbivory) may contribute to the invasion success of L. draba in the western USA.
The biogeography of plant reproduction: potential determinants of species’ range sizes
Authors: Lowry E. , Lester S. E.
Published: July 2006

Aim A major biogeographical hypothesis, the ‘niche‐breadth’ hypothesis, explains species range sizes based on the extent of a species’ niche (e.g. diversity of habitats occupied; range of environmental conditions tolerated). An alternative hypothesis explains range sizes using metapopulation theory (e.g. colonization dynamics; dispersal ability). Both niche breadth and colonization ability may be related to plant species’ reproductive characteristics. We evaluate both hypotheses by examining the relationship of plant range size to mating system and genomic structure (ploidy status).

Location Western North America.

Methods Using a data set of 60 taxa in the genusClarkia(Onagraceae), we use three analytical techniques to examine the effect of reproductive characteristics on range size. We conduct cross‐species analyses of present‐day taxa to examine both mating system and polyploidy in relation to range size. We also conduct a phylogenetically independent contrasts analysis (usingcaicsoftware) on the relationship of mating system to range size in diploid species. Third, we compare closely related taxon pairs that differ in mating system as an alternative method to control for phylogeny.

Results Polyploid species have significantly larger ranges compared with diploid species. When considering only diploid taxa, no significant relationship is found for mating system in both cross‐species and phylogenetically independent contrasts analyses. The diploid pairwise analysis, comparing only the range sizes of direct sister taxa with alternative mating systems, does show a relationship, with outcrossing species having larger ranges than self‐fertilizing species.

Main conclusions We argue that genetic diversity, colonization ability, or a combination of both factors may influence plant species’ range sizes. The significant pairwise analysis suggests that both the independent contrast and the cross‐species analysis may be confounded by polytomies of species at the terminal nodes of the phylogeny, indicating the importance of comparing the results of multiple analytical techniques. We propose that the range sizes of self‐fertilizing species have a bimodal distribution, obscuring the effect of mating system on range size, and that a broader survey of plant taxa will resolve the two modes from that of the outcrossing species. Lastly, polyploid species appear to show significantly larger range sizes than diploid species, irrespective of mating system.
Vasoactive intestinal peptide receptor subtypes and signalling pathways involved in relaxation of human stomach
Authors: Severi C. , Tattoli I. , Corleto V. D. , Maselli M. A. , Trisolini P. , Delle Fave G.
Published: July 2006

Abstract Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) relaxes smooth muscle by interacting with receptors coupled to cAMP‐ or cGMP‐signalling pathways. Their relative contribution to human gastric relaxation is unknown. This study aimed at investigating, in terms of biological activity, receptor expression and related signalling pathways, the action of VIP separately on the human fundus and the antrum. VIP caused greater relaxation of smooth muscle cells (SMC) and strips of the antrum presenting on the former a higher efficacy and potency (ED50: 0.53 ± 0.17 nmol L−1) than on the fundus (ED50: 3.4 ± 1.4 nmol L−1). On both fundus and antrum strips, its effect was tetrodotoxin insentitive. Reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction analysis showed the sole expression of VPAC2 and natriuretic peptide clearance receptors, with VPAC2 being more abundant in the antrum. Functional regional differences in receptor‐related signalling pathways were found. Activation of the cAMP‐pathway by forskolin or its inhibition by adenylate cyclase (2′5′‐dideoxyadenosine) or kinase (Rp‐cAMPs) inhibitors had more pronounced effects on antrum SMC. Activation of the cGMP‐pathway by sodium nitroprusside or its inhibition by guanylate cyclase (LY83583) or kinase (KT5823) inhibitors had more effects on fundus SMC, on which a higher expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase was found. In conclusion, regional differences in VIP action on human stomach are related to distinct myogenic properties of SMC of the antrum and the fundus.
A small acidic protein 1 (SMAP1) mediates responses of the Arabidopsis root to the synthetic auxin 2,4‐dichlorophenoxyacetic acid
Authors: Rahman Abidur , Nakasone Akari , Chhun Tory , Ooura Chiharu , Biswas Kamal Kanti , Uchimiya Hirofumi , Tsurumi Seiji , Baskin Tobias I. , Tanaka Atsushi , Oono Yutaka
Published: July 2006

2,4‐dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4‐D), a chemical analogue of indole‐3‐acetic acid (IAA), is widely used as a growth regulator and exogenous source of auxin. Because 2,4‐D evokes physiological and molecular responses similar to those evoked by IAA, it is believed that they share a common response pathway. Here, we show that a mutant, antiauxin resistant1 (aar1), identified in a screen for resistance to the anti‐auxin p‐chlorophenoxy‐isobutyric acid (PCIB), is resistant to 2,4‐D, yet nevertheless responds like the wild‐type to IAA and 1‐napthaleneacetic acid in root elongation and lateral root induction assays. That the aar1 mutation alters 2,4‐D responsiveness specifically was confirmed by analysis of GUS expression in the DR5:GUS and HS:AXR3NT‐GUS backgrounds, as well as by real‐time PCR quantification of IAA11 expression. The two characterized aar1 alleles both harbor multi‐gene deletions; however, 2,4‐D responsiveness was restored by transformation with one of the genes missing in both alleles, and the 2,4‐D‐resistant phenotype was reproduced by decreasing the expression of the same gene in the wild‐type using an RNAi construct. The gene encodes a small, acidic protein (SMAP1) with unknown function and present in plants, animals and invertebrates but not in fungi or prokaryotes. Taken together, these results suggest that SMAP1 is a regulatory component that mediates responses to 2,4‐D, and that responses to 2,4‐D and IAA are partially distinct.
An unusual presentation of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection in a black epidermodysplasia verruciformis (EV) patient
Authors: Sanclemente Gloria , García José‐J. , Gómez Luis‐F. , Tyring Stephen K. , Wolff Juan C. , Correa Luis A. , Rady Peter
Published: July 2006

A 25‐year‐old black man had a 20‐year history of disseminated plaques on his body. Two years before consultation he noticed several tumors on the genitalia. Physical examination revealed generalized, coalescing, hypopigmented plaques with a very defined and keratotic border that resembled actinic porokeratosis. (Fig. 1). Multiple verrucous and moist tumors were observed on the scrotum (Fig. 2). His past medical history was unremarkable, and no family member had the disease.

Generalized, coalescing, hypopigmented plaques

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Multiple verrucous and moist tumors on the scrotum

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Histology of the body lesions revealed hyperkeratosis with a horny‐layer, basket‐weave appearance, large and clear blue–gray keratinocytes with finely granular cytoplasm and vacuolized nuclei, and abundant keratohyaline granules located in the upper epidermal layer (Fig. 3). Scrotum biopsy showed hyperkeratosis, irregular acanthosis with papillomatosis, and koilocytic figures.

Hyperkeratosis with basket‐weave appearance of the horny layer and vacuolated blue–gray keratinocytes (hematoxylin and eosin stain, ×20)

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The genital lesions were treated with monthly cryotherapy plus surgical excision with complete disappearance of the lesions. A decrease in ultraviolet exposure and daily sun‐block were encouraged for epidermodysplasia verruciformis lesions. After genital wart clearance, follow‐ups are being scheduled every 4 months, with no new lesions to date.
Influence of cattle grazing practices on forest understorey structure in north‐eastern New South Wales
Authors: TASKER ELIZABETH M. , BRADSTOCK ROSS A.
Published: July 2006

Abstract  In eastern Australia the practice of grazing cattle in eucalypt forests and woodlands, as a supplementary activity to farmland grazing, is widespread. It is typically accompanied by burning at frequent intervals by graziers to promote more nutritious and digestible growth of the ground cover for their livestock. Collectively, these forest grazing practices affect understorey structure, which in turn affects other biotic and abiotic components of these ecosystems. In order to test how significant the effects of forest grazing practices are relative to the effects of other management practices and environmental variables and the degree to which grazing practices determine understorey vegetation structure, we surveyed 58 sites on the northern tablelands of New South Wales, Australia. All sites were located in eucalypt forest and were stratified by grazing status (presence or absence): time since logging, time since wildfire, geology, aspect, slope and topographic position. At each site an index of vegetation complexity and the most abundant plant species were recorded. The data were analysed by a backwards stepwise multiple regression. Grazing practices had the greatest influence on understorey vegetation complexity of any of the measured attributes. The grazed sites were characterized by a significantly lower vegetation complexity score, different dominant understorey species, reduced or absent shrub layers, and an open, simplified and more grassy understorey structure compared with ungrazed sites. Time since logging and time since wildfire also significantly affected understorey structure. Our results indicate that cattle grazing practices (i.e. grazing and the associated frequent fire regimes) can have major effects on forest structure and composition at a regional level.
Mixed hummingbird: Long‐proboscid‐fly pollination in ‘ornithophilous’Embothrium coccineum (Proteaceae) along a rainfall gradient in Patagonia, Argentina
Authors: DEVOTO MARIANO , MONTALDO NORBERTO H. , MEDAN DIEGO
Published: July 2006

Abstract  The pollination ecology of eight populations of the tree Embothrium coccineum was studied along a steep rainfall gradient in NW Patagonia, Argentina. The showy red flowers suggest an ornithophilous pollination syndrome and they have been reported to attract hummingbirds in Argentina and hummingbirds and passerines in Chile. At each population, flower visitors were recorded and floral rewards were analysed. We found a highly significant increase in nectar concentration towards the drier end of the gradient, but this change was not related to the turnover of species in the flower‐visitor assemblage of E. coccineum. In addition to the hummingbird Sephanoides sephaniodes (Green‐Backed Firecrown, Trochilidae) which is widespread throughout the temperate forest at this latitude, other species seem to be locally important as pollinators of E. coccineum in some sites in Argentina (e.g. two long‐tongued tanglewing flies (Nemestrinidae) of the genus Trichophthalma). The long‐dated occurrence of tanglewing flies in South America, relative to the more modern hummingbirds, suggests that ornithophily may be a derived character in E. coccineum, the ancestral condition being pollination by Nemestrinidae.
Testing alternative models for the conservation of koalas in fragmented rural–urban landscapes
Authors: MCALPINE CLIVE A. , BOWEN MICHIALA E. , CALLAGHAN JOHN G. , LUNNEY DANIEL , RHODES JONATHAN R. , MITCHELL DAVID L. , PULLAR DAVID V. , POSZINGHAM HUGH P.
Published: July 2006

Abstract  Predicting the various responses of different species to changes in landscape structure is a formidable challenge to landscape ecology. Based on expert knowledge and landscape ecological theory, we develop five competing a priori models for predicting the presence/absence of the Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) in Noosa Shire, south‐east Queensland (Australia). A priori predictions were nested within three levels of ecological organization: in situ (site level) habitat (<1 ha), patch level (100 ha) and landscape level (100–1000 ha). To test the models, Koala surveys and habitat surveys (n = 245) were conducted across the habitat mosaic. After taking into account tree species preferences, the patch and landscape context, and the neighbourhood effect of adjacent present sites, we applied logistic regression and hierarchical partitioning analyses to rank the alternative models and the explanatory variables. The strongest support was for a multilevel model, with Koala presence best predicted by the proportion of the landscape occupied by high quality habitat, the neighbourhood effect, the mean nearest neighbour distance between forest patches, the density of forest patches and the density of sealed roads. When tested against independent data (n = 105) using a receiver operator characteristic curve, the multilevel model performed moderately well. The study is consistent with recent assertions that habitat loss is the major driver of population decline, however, landscape configuration and roads have an important effect that needs to be incorporated into Koala conservation strategies.
Arboreal walking performance in seven didelphid marsupials as an aspect of their fundamental niche
Authors: DELCIELLOS ANA CLÁUDIA , VIEIRA MARCUS VINÍCIUS
Published: July 2006

Abstract Species of didelphid marsupials (Didelphimorphia, Didelphidae) differ in their use of the forest strata, but it is not clear whether these differences are in fundamental or realized niches. The fundamental niche of seven species of didelphids (Caluromys philander,Didelphis aurita,Gracilinanus microtarsus,Marmosops incanus,Metachirus nudicaudatus,Micoureus demerarae, andPhilander frenatus) was compared using their performance in arboreal walking. The association between performance and vertical use of the forest also was tested accounting for phylogenetic and allometric effects. Tests consisted of making the animal cross five 3 m long horizontal supports of different diameters, 1 m from the ground. The cycle of maximum speed was chosen to measure stride length, frequency and velocity. Arboreal species performed better than the terrestrial ones, but a major part of the variation in stride length (70.95%) and stride frequency (88.10%) was associated with body size. Part of the variation in stride length independent of body size (14.05%) was associated with the degree of vertical use of the forest, after phylogenetic effects were accounted for. Fundamental niches of six of the seven species were discriminated with the performance tests used. Discrepancies between the realized and fundamental niches can be inferred for two of these species,D. auritaandP. frenatus.
Beetle species’ responses suggest that microclimate mediates fragmentation effects in tropical Australian rainforest
Authors: GRIMBACHER PETER S. , CATTERALL CARLA P. , KITCHING ROGER L.
Published: July 2006

Abstract  Despite the enormous contribution of invertebrates to global biodiversity and ecosystem function, the patterns and causes of insect responses to tropical rainforest destruction and fragmentation remain poorly understood. We studied the responses of beetles to these factors in a fragmented upland rainforest landscape in north‐east Queensland, Australia. Beetles were sampled using flight interception traps from six replicate sites in rainforest interior, rainforest edge, small rainforest remnants and pasture, interspersed across about 600 km2. Beetles from 10 family/subfamily groups were sorted to species. There were three major findings. First, converting rainforest into pasture has a very strong negative effect on beetle diversity and species composition. Very few beetle species were present in pasture and none of the most abundant species was more abundant in pasture than rainforest. Second, beetle assemblages appeared to respond to climate. Beetle species composition in drier rainforest habitats was different from that of moister rainforest and there were species unique to each rainforest type. Third, beetle species composition differed between small remnants and interior rainforest: drier‐associated species were more abundant in small remnants, whereas wetter‐associated species were more abundant in interiors. Edges tended to be intermediate. We argue that this pattern can be attributed to a fragmentation effect mediated by differences in microclimate rather than by floristic, structural, or area and isolation effects.
Buffering of native forest edge microclimate by adjoining tree plantations
Authors: DENYER K. , BURNS B. , OGDEN J.
Published: July 2006

Abstract  In the Waikato Region of New Zealand, Pinus radiata (D. Don) plantations are becoming increasingly common on land adjacent to native forest fragments. It is unclear whether this juxtaposition is beneficial or detrimental to native forest fragment quality and persistence. We hypothesized that adjacent dense plantations buffer native fragments from microclimatic exposure, reducing edge effects and expanding the area of interior‐like native forest. Microclimate parameters were measured in native forest fragments adjacent to grazed pasture (‘abrupt’ edges) and in fragments adjacent to mature P. radiata plantations (‘embedded’ edges) during late summer. Photosynthetically active radiation, air temperature and vapour pressure deficit (VPD) were measured along transects perpendicular to edges during the mid‐afternoon, when gradients were typically steady and maximal, to investigate spatial variation. At paired abrupt versus embedded edges these same variables were monitored for week‐long periods to determine temporal variation. In fragments adjacent to pasture, conditions were significantly lighter and warmer (but not drier) than the interior along transects at distances up to 20 m from the edge. In contrast, no variables differed significantly along transects adjacent to pine. The different microclimate variables measured at edges (except VPD) contributed to edge effects at different times through a daily cycle. Photosynthetically active radiation was significantly different between abrupt and embedded edges at all times of the day. Air temperature was significantly different during mid‐day and afternoon, but not during the morning nor at night. Vapour pressure deficit varied considerably over time and between sites, but was never consistently higher at one type of edge. We conclude that pine plantations in the Waikato Region provide valuable microclimate buffering during the day, principally due to their effect in reducing light and temperature to interior‐like conditions at native forest edges. Consequently, plantations are a compatible neighbouring land use to forest fragments. Such buffering could be extended through the pine harvesting‐replanting phase with appropriate management, such as leaving an undisturbed margin during harvest.
Effects of tail autotomy on survival, growth and territory occupation in free‐ranging juvenile geckos (Oedura lesueurii)
Authors: WEBB JONATHAN K.
Published: July 2006

Abstract  Many animals autotomize their tails to facilitate escape from predators. Although tail autotomy can increase the likelihood of surviving a predatory encounter, it may entail subsequent costs, including reduced growth, loss of energy stores, a reduction in reproductive output, loss of social status and a decreased probability of survival during subsequent encounters with predators. To date, few studies have investigated the potential fitness costs of tail autotomy in natural populations. I investigated whether tail loss influenced survival, growth and territory occupation of juvenile velvet geckos Oedura lesueurii in a population where predatory snakes were common. During the 3‐year mark–recapture study, 32% of juveniles voluntarily autotomized their tails when first captured. Analysis of survival using the program mark showed that voluntary tail autotomy did not influence the subsequent survival of juvenile geckos. Survival was age‐dependent and was higher in 1‐year‐old animals (0.98) than in hatchlings (0.76), whereas recapture probabilities were time‐dependent. Growth rates of tailed and tailless juveniles were very similar, but tailless geckos had slow rates of tail regeneration (0.14 mm day−1). Tail autotomy did not influence rock usage by geckos, and both tailed and tailless juveniles used few rocks as diurnal retreat sites (means of 1.64 and 1.47 rocks, respectively) and spent long time periods (85 and 82 days) under the same rocks. Site fidelity may confer survival advantages to juveniles in populations sympatric with ambush foraging snakes. My results show that two potential fitness costs of tail autotomy – decreased growth rates and a lower probability of survival – did not occur in juveniles from this population. However, compared with juveniles, significantly fewer adult geckos (17%) voluntarily autotomized their tails during capture. Because adults possess large tails that are used for lipid storage, the energetic costs of tail autotomy are likely to be much higher in adult than in juvenile O. lesueurii.
Association of serum lipids with diabetic retinopathy in urban South Indians—the Chennai Urban Rural Epidemiology Study (CURES) Eye Study—2
Authors: Rema M. , Srivastava B. K. , Anitha B. , Deepa R. , Mohan V.
Published: July 2006

Aims  To study the association of serum lipids with diabetic retinopathy (DR) in Type 2 diabetic subjects.

Methods  Type 2 diabetic subjects (n = 1736) were randomly selected from the Chennai Urban Rural Epidemiology Study (CURES), which was carried out on a representative population of Chennai in South India. DR was diagnosed by retinal colour photography and classified according to the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) grading system. Classification of lipid abnormalities was done according to the National Cholesterol Education Programme–Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP–ATP III) Guidelines.

Results  The mean serum cholesterol (P = 0.024), serum triglycerides (P = 0.017) and non‐high‐density lipoprotein (HDL)‐cholesterol (P = 0.025) concentrations were higher in subjects with DR compared with those without DR. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that after adjusting for age, gender, duration of diabetes, total cholesterol Standardised regression estimate (SRE) = 1.178, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.042, 1.331, P = 0.014), non‐HDL‐cholesterol (SRE = 1.169, 95% CI 1.040, 1.313, P = 0.012) and serum triglycerides (SRE = 1.292, 95% CI 1.136, 1.467, P = 0.001) were associated with DR and non‐HDL‐cholesterol (SRE = 1.264, 95% CI 1.000, 1.592, P = 0.045) and low‐density lipoprotein (LDL)‐cholesterol (SRE = 1.453, 95% CI 1.107, 1.896, P = 0.005) with diabetic macular oedema (DME). After adjusting for HbA1c and body mass index, only triglycerides maintained a significant association with DR (SRE = 1.137, 95% CI 1.000, 1.291, P = 0.007) and LDL‐cholesterol with macular oedema (SRE = 1.358, 95% CI 1.034, 1.774, P = 0.026).

Conclusions  There is a significant association of serum triglycerides with DR and LDL‐cholesterol with DME.
Employee innovation behaviour in health care: the influence from management and colleagues
Authors: Åmo B.W.
Published: July 2006

Aim:  This article reports how ‘important others’ and position in the organizational hierarchy relate to employee innovation behaviour. Empowerment of healthcare workers to engage in innovation behaviour is desired by management in Norwegian municipalities as it is regarded as a way of getting more health care for less money. Innovation behaviour is also desired by nurses’ and other healthcare workers’ professional organizations of as it is regarded as a way of improving the working conditions of the healthcare worker.

Background:  The theoretical discussion in this paper includes corporate entrepreneurship, ‘important others’ and employee innovation behaviour.

Methods:  This article reports on a study concerning empowerment of nurses and other healthcare workers (n = 555) in Norwegian municipalities. The statistical methods used include multiple regressions.

Findings:  The study reveals that there were differences between the nurse (registered nurses), auxiliary nurses (nurse aides) and unskilled healthcare workers concerning how they perceived the opinion of the management and the opinion of the colleagues about how suitable it was to present innovation behaviour at the workplace. Moreover, the different groups of healthcare workers assign different levels of importance to this influence.

Conclusions:  It is suggested that the findings put forward in this article may lead to an improved understanding of the dynamics behind employee innovation behaviour, and that such knowledge could improve the care provided to the patients, the cost of the care and the working conditions of nurses and other healthcare workers.
Emotional and informational support for families during their child’s illness
Authors: Sarajärvi A. , Haapamäki M.L. , Paavilainen E.
Published: July 2006

Purpose:  To describe and compare the support provided by nursing staff to families during their child’s illness from the viewpoint of families and nurses.

Method:  A survey method was used. Data were collected by questionnaires planned for families and staff separately. The study population consisted of families who visited paediatric outpatient clinics, families with hospitalized children (n = 344) and the paediatric nursing staff (n = 60).

Findings:  Almost half of the families had received adequate emotional and informational support from the nursing staff for their physical and psychological reactions. One‐fifth of the families reported that they had not been supported at all during the child’s hospitalization. According to families and nurses, the support was provided in the forms of discussion, listening and giving time.

Implications for practice:  Families’ and nurses’ suggestions for development of support were related to the time resources of the staff, to the flow of information, to more client‐centred attitudes, to being appreciated and listened to and to home care guidance. However, the pervasiveness of this problem in the international literature suggests that deeper consideration of possible underlying reasons for this phenomenon is called for.
What is orthographic processing skill and how does it relate to word identification in reading?
Authors: Burt Jennifer S.
Published: July 2006

The role of orthographic processing skill (OPS) in reading has aroused the interest of many developmental researchers. Despite observations by Vellutino that current measures of OPS primarily are indicators of reading (and spelling) achievement, OPS commonly is distinguished from both reading achievement and phonological skills. An analysis of the reading literature indicates that there is no theory in which OPS meaningfully plays a role as an independent skill or causal factor in reading acquisition. Rather, OPS indexes fluent word identification and spelling knowledge, and there is no evidence to refute the hypothesis that its development relies heavily on phonological processes. Results of correlational studies and reader group comparisons (a) cannot inform about on‐line processes and (b) may be parsimoniously explained in terms of phonological skills, reading experience, unmeasured language abilities and methodological factors, without implying that OPS is an aetiologically separable skill. Future research would profit from the investigation in experimental studies of the nature and development of orthographic representations.