bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gene-regulation logic in retinal ganglion cell development: Isl1 defines a critical branch distinct from but overlapping with Pou4f2
Authors: Mu Xiuqian , Fu Xueyao , Beremand Phillip D. , Thomas Terry L. , Klein William H.
Published: May 2008

Understanding gene regulatory networks (GRNs) that control neuronal differentiation will provide systems-level perspectives on neurogenesis. We have previously constructed a model for a GRN in retinal ganglion cell (RGC) differentiation in which four hierarchical tiers of transcription factors ultimately control the expression of downstream terminal genes. Math5 occupies a central node in the hierarchy because it is essential for the formation of RGCs and the expression of the immediate downstream factor Pou4f2. Based on its expression, we also proposed that Isl1, a LIM-homeodomain factor, functions in parallel with Pou4f2 and downstream of Math5 in the RGC GRN. To determine whether this was the case, a conditional
Isl1
allele was generated and deleted specifically in the developing retina. Although RGCs formed in
Isl1
-deleted retinas, most underwent apoptosis, and few remained at later stages. By microarray analysis, we identified a distinct set of genes whose expression depended on Isl1. These genes are all downstream of Math5, and some of them, but not all, also depend on Pou4f2. Additionally, Isl1 was required for the sustained expression of
Pou4f2
, suggesting that Isl1 positively regulates
Pou4f2
after Math5 levels are diminished. The results demonstrate an essential role for Isl1 in RGC development and reveal two distinct but intersecting branches of the RGC GRN downstream of Math5, one directed by Pou4f2 and the other by Isl1. They also reveal that identical RGC expression patterns are achieved by different combinations of divergent inputs from upstream transcription factors.
The experiences of counselling for persons with ME
Authors: Ward Tony , Hogan Kevin , Stuart Viki , Singleton Elizabeth
Published: May 2008

A number of studies have evaluated counselling interventions for people with myalgic encephalitis, but few report client perceptions in any detail. This study seeks to explore client perceptions using a qualitative methodology. A sample of 25 individuals with myalgic encephalitis were interviewed about their experiences in counselling. The interviews were transcribed and subjected to thematic analysis using grounded theory principles. The analysis showed that people with myalgic encephalitis endure significant changes to their lives, often involving great loss and trauma. After seeking help through counselling, participants had experienced a wide variety of approaches and there were positive and negative perceptions of each. Other perceptions related to therapist characteristics and the way in which interventions were carried out. Recommendations for practitioners are given.
A follow‐up study of the long‐term effects of counselling in a primary care counselling psychology service
Authors: Davis Debi , Corrin-Pendry Stephanie , Savill Mark
Published: May 2008

Despite much recent work examining the short‐term effect of counselling in primary healthcare settings, to date relatively little research has examined the effectiveness of such treatment programmes over the longer term. In this study, 58 participants underwent brief, time‐limited integrative counselling sessions, with symptoms being measured using the CORE‐OM immediately before, immediately after, and 30 months after counselling. It was found that in addition to participants reporting significantly lower levels of psychological distress immediately post‐counselling, a further significant improvement at 30‐month follow‐up was also apparent, indicating that the benefit from counselling was maintained. In addition to this reduction in symptoms post‐counselling, a significant reduction in GP visits was also detected in the 12 months following counselling when compared with the 12 months prior to counselling, indicating a lower reliance on the primary healthcare team after counselling.
The manifestation of transference during early psychotherapy sessions
Authors: Tellides Catherine , Fitzpatrick Marilyn , Drapeau Martin , Bracewell Robert , Janzen Jennifer , Jaouich Alexia
Published: May 2008

Despite the clinical use of therapeutic transference across various schools of psychotherapy, there have been relatively few empirical studies of this phenomenon, none of which has examined transference with a non‐pathological population. In this study, the core conflictual relationship theme (CCRT) method was used to examine the manifestation of therapeutic transference in the first three sessions of 22 counselling contracts with high‐functioning individuals. Factor analyses of the wish (W) and response of other (RO) components of the CCRT indicate a complementary pattern of relating in which the therapist is idealised and others are devalued. Within the response of self (RS) component, clients exhibited a concordant relational transfer whereby they had a negative response to both the therapist and others. Additionally, control issues emerged in the W component for significant others and in the RS component for the therapist.
Prevalence of Hepatitis B virus and/or Hepatitis C virus co‐infections in prisoners infected with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus
Authors: Pontali Emanuele , Ferrari Franco
Published: May 2008

Correctional facilities host a disproportionately high prevalence of HBV, HCV and HIV infection. We evaluated the prevalence of HBV and/or HCV co‐infection among HIV‐infected inmates entering our correctional facility. Over a 30‐month period, 173 consecutive HIV‐infected inmates entered our institution and were evaluated.
HCV co‐infection was observed in more than 90% of the tested HIV‐infected inmates, past HBV infection in 77.4% and active HBV co‐infection in 6.7%; triple coinfection (HIV, HCV and HBs‐Ag positivity) was seen in 6.1% of them. Given the observed high prevalence of co‐infection, testing for HBV and HCV in all HIV‐infected inmates at entry in any correctional system is recommended to identify those in need of specific care and/or preventing interventions.
Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Management of Blastomycosis: 2008 Update by the Infectious Diseases Society of America
Authors: Chapman Stanley W. , Dismukes William E. , Proia Laurie A. , Bradsher Robert W. , Pappas Peter G. , Threlkeld Michael G. , Kauffman Carol A.
Published: May 2008

Evidence-based guidelines for the management of patients with blastomycosis were prepared by an Expert Panel of the Infectious Diseases Society of America. These updated guidelines replace the previous management guidelines published in the April 2000 issue of Clinical Infectious Diseases. The guidelines are intended for use by health care providers who care for patients who have blastomycosis. Since 2000, several new antifungal agents have become available, and blastomycosis has been noted more frequently among immunosuppressed patients. New information, based on publications between 2000 and 2006, is incorporated in this guideline document, and recommendations for treating children with blastomycosis have been noted.
EQUILIBRIUM PHASE TRANSITIONS
Authors: Ghoniem Nasr M. , Walgraef Daniel D.
Published: May 2008

This chapter aims to develop the fundamental equations of thermodynamics which govern equilibrium between reacting species or phases. It begins with a review of the basic thermodynamic state variables of a homogeneous phase, followed by a discussion of the basic concepts of phase equilibrium in pure species as well as in multi-component systems. The ideal and non-ideal behaviour of mixtures, which facilitates the development of free energy formalisms associated with the mixture, is discussed in the subsequent sections. An introduction to phase diagram calculation techniques for binary and briefly for multi-component systems is presented. Finally, the concept of metastability and equilibrium suppression is introduced, and the significance and applications of metastable phase diagrams are outlined.
INSTABILITIES IN REACTION–DIFFUSION DYNAMICS
Authors: Ghoniem Nasr M. , Walgraef Daniel D.
Published: May 2008

This chapter discusses instabilities in reaction-diffusion dynamics. Topics covered include stability in reaction-diffusion dynamics, instabilities in reaction-transport dynamics, Turing instability, and Hopf bifurcation.
MULTISCALE COMPUTER SIMULATION METHODS
Authors: Ghoniem Nasr M. , Walgraef Daniel D.
Published: May 2008

Computational modelling of materials behaviour is becoming a reliable tool of scientific investigation, complementary to traditional theory and experimentation. The Multiscale Materials Modelling (MMM) approach reflects the realization that continuum and atomistic analysis methods are complementary. This chapter describes the most popular numerical techniques of each component that make up the MMM paradigm for modelling nano- and micro-systems: Quantum Mechanics (QM), Molecular Dynamics (MD), Monte Carlo (MC), Dislocation Dynamics (DD), Statistical Mechanics (SM), and Continuum Mechanics (CM).
SURFACE ROUGHENING, PATTERNS AND CRACKS
Authors: Ghoniem Nasr M. , Walgraef Daniel D.
Published: May 2008

This chapter begins with a discussion of the causes of the roughening and grooving of solid surfaces. It then discusses Asaro-Tiller surface instability, phase field models, surface patterns caused by energetic photons and ions, surface stress during rapid heating, stress corrosion cracking, and numerical methods.
SELF-ORGANIZATION OF SURFACE ATOMS
Authors: Ghoniem Nasr M. , Walgraef Daniel D.
Published: May 2008

This chapter presents a method for quantitatively studying the evolution (i.e., nucleation and growth) of the solid phase from the vapour phase. The technical applications of the methods developed is mainly in chemical vapour deposition (CVD), physical vapour deposition (PVD), chemical vapour infiltration (CVI), epitaxial growth of semiconductors, plasma and laser processing, etc. The definition of vapour is broadened to include all energetic processes, such as plasma, electron, ion, or laser, in which low-density material (vapour) is employed. The latter part of the chapter examines heat and mass transport during CVD processes.
LASER-INDUCED DEFORMATION OF THIN FILMS
Authors: Ghoniem Nasr M. , Walgraef Daniel D.
Published: May 2008

This chapter presents the theory of laser-induced deformation and patterning of irradiated surfaces. Topics discussed include laser irradiation and thin film deformation, laser-induced temperature distribution, vacancy dynamics in strained crystals, deformation equations for thin films, variational principle for the free energy, deformation instability and surface patterning, and the influence of crystal anisotropy and adhesion.
A group of processes related to the Poisson process
Authors: Neville D.J
Published: May 2008

A group of stochastic processes akin to the Poisson process is defined in terms of rules of interactions between two types of interacting entities and in terms of a parameter corresponding to the initial relative numbers of the two types of interacting entities. One limiting value of this parameter corresponds to the Poisson process and the exponential distribution function, and the other limiting value of the parameter corresponds to a special case among the group of stochastic processes defined and a statistical distribution function used previously for incomes and fracture toughness. The related processes in between, which correspond to the intermediate values of the parameter, correspond to an intermediate statistical distribution function. The transition between the limiting cases is smooth as evinced by the change of the mean and median with change in the parameter. The scale-invariant behaviour of the fields of stress and strain at the tips of cracks is used to support the introduction of a shape parameter into the special-case function. All the distribution functions considered are found to be stable extreme-value functions, either in the sense of multiplying probabilities or in the sense of summing the variable or in a mixture of both senses.
Hummingbird responses to gender-biased nectar production: are nectar biases maintained by natural or sexual selection?
Authors: Carlson Jane E
Published: May 2008

Pollinators mediate the evolution of secondary floral traits through both natural and sexual selection. Gender-biased nectar, for example, could be maintained by one or both, depending on the interactions between plants and pollinators. Here, I investigate pollinator responses to gender-biased nectar using the dichogamous herb
Chrysothemis friedrichsthaliana
(Gesneriaceae) which produces more nectar during the male floral phase. Previous research showed that the hummingbird pollinator
Phaethornis striigularis
visited male-phase flowers more often than female-phase flowers, and multiple visits benefited male more than female fecundity. If sexual selection maintains male-biased rewards, hummingbirds should prefer more-rewarding flowers independent of floral gender. If, however, differential rewards are partially maintained through natural selection, hummingbirds should respond to asymmetry with visits that reduce geitonogamy, i.e. selfing and pollen discounting. In plants with male biases, these visit types include single-flower visits and movements from low to high rewards. To test these predictions, I manipulated nectar asymmetry between pairs of real or artificial flowers on plants and recorded foraging behaviour. I also assessed maternal costs of selfing using hand pollinations. For plants with real flowers, hummingbirds preferred more-rewarding flowers and male-phase morphology, the latter possibly owing to previous experience. At artificial arrays, hummingbirds responded to extreme reward asymmetry with increased single-flower visits; however, they moved from high to low rewards more often than low to high. Finally, selfed flowers did not produce inferior seeds. In summary, sexual selection, more so than geitonogamy avoidance, maintains nectar biases in
C. friedrichsthaliana
, in one of the clearest examples of sexual selection in plants, to date.
Parent–offspring conflict and co-adaptation: behavioural ecology meets quantitative genetics
Authors: Smiseth Per T , Wright Jonathan , Kölliker Mathias
Published: May 2008

The evolution of the complex and dynamic behavioural interactions between caring parents and their dependent offspring is a major area of research in behavioural ecology and quantitative genetics. While behavioural ecologists examine the evolution of interactions between parents and offspring in the light of parent–offspring conflict and its resolution, quantitative geneticists explore the evolution of such interactions in the light of parent–offspring co-adaptation due to combined effects of parental and offspring behaviours on fitness. To date, there is little interaction or integration between these two fields. Here, we first review the merits and limitations of each of these two approaches and show that they provide important complementary insights into the evolution of strategies for offspring begging and parental resource provisioning. We then outline how central ideas from behavioural ecology and quantitative genetics can be combined within a framework based on the concept of behavioural reaction norms, which provides a common basis for behavioural ecologists and quantitative geneticists to study the evolution of parent–offspring interactions. Finally, we discuss how the behavioural reaction norm approach can be used to advance our understanding of parent–offspring conflict by combining information about the genetic basis of traits from quantitative genetics with key insights regarding the adaptive function and dynamic nature of parental and offspring behaviours from behavioural ecology.
Developmental model of static allometry in holometabolous insects
Authors: Shingleton Alexander W , Mirth Christen K , Bates Peter W
Published: May 2008

The regulation of static allometry is a fundamental developmental process, yet little is understood of the mechanisms that ensure organs scale correctly across a range of body sizes. Recent studies have revealed the physiological and genetic mechanisms that control nutritional variation in the final body and organ size in holometabolous insects. The implications these mechanisms have for the regulation of static allometry is, however, unknown. Here, we formulate a mathematical description of the nutritional control of body and organ size inDrosophila melanogasterand use it to explore how the developmental regulators of size influence static allometry. The model suggests that the slope of nutritional static allometries, the ‘allometric coefficient’, is controlled by the relative sensitivity of an organ's growth rate to changes in nutrition, and the relative duration of development when nutrition affects an organ's final size. The model also predicts that, in order to maintain correct scaling, sensitivity to changes in nutrition varies among organs, and within organs through time. We present experimental data that support these predictions. By revealing how specific physiological and genetic regulators of size influence allometry, the model serves to identify developmental processes upon which evolution may act to alter scaling relationships.
Genetic analyses reveal independent domestication origins of Eurasian reindeer
Authors: Røed Knut H , Flagstad Øystein , Nieminen Mauri , Holand Øystein , Dwyer Mark J , Røv Nils , Vilà Carles
Published: May 2008

Although there is little doubt that the domestication of mammals was instrumental for the modernization of human societies, even basic features of the path towards domestication remain largely unresolved for many species. Reindeer are considered to be in the early phase of domestication with wild and domestic herds still coexisting widely across Eurasia. This provides a unique model system for understanding how the early domestication process may have taken place. We analysed mitochondrial sequences and nuclear microsatellites in domestic and wild herds throughout Eurasia to address the origin of reindeer herding and domestication history. Our data demonstrate independent origins of domestic reindeer in Russia and Fennoscandia. This implies that the Saami people of Fennoscandia domesticated their own reindeer independently of the indigenous cultures in western Russia. We also found that augmentation of local reindeer herds by crossing with wild animals has been common. However, some wild reindeer populations have not contributed to the domestic gene pool, suggesting variation in domestication potential among populations. These differences may explain why geographically isolated indigenous groups have been able to make the technological shift from mobile hunting to large-scale reindeer pastoralism independently.
Ocean acidification may increase calcification rates, but at a cost
Authors: Wood Hannah L , Spicer John I , Widdicombe Stephen
Published: May 2008

Ocean acidification is the lowering of pH in the oceans as a result of increasing uptake of atmospheric carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide is entering the oceans at a greater rate than ever before, reducing the ocean's natural buffering capacity and lowering pH. Previous work on the biological consequences of ocean acidification has suggested that calcification and metabolic processes are compromised in acidified seawater. By contrast, here we show, using the ophiuroid brittlestarAmphiura filiformisas a model calcifying organism, that some organisms can increase the rates of many of their biological processes (in this case, metabolism and the ability to calcify to compensate for increased seawater acidity). However, this upregulation of metabolism and calcification, potentially ameliorating some of the effects of increased acidity comes at a substantial cost (muscle wastage) and is therefore unlikely to be sustainable in the long term.
A seed predator drives the evolution of a seed dispersal mutualism
Authors: Siepielski Adam M , Benkman Craig W
Published: May 2008

Although antagonists are hypothesized to impede the evolution of mutualisms, they may simultaneously exert selection favouring the evolution of alternative mutualistic interactions. We found that increases in limber pine (
Pinus flexilis
) seed defences arising from selection exerted by a pre-dispersal seed predator (red squirrel
Tamiasciurus hudsonicus
) reduced the efficacy of limber pine's primary seed disperser (Clark's nutcracker
Nucifraga columbiana
) while enhancing seed dispersal by ground-foraging scatter-hoarding rodents (
Peromyscus
). Thus, there is a shift from relying on primary seed dispersal by birds in areas without red squirrels, to an increasing reliance on secondary seed dispersal by scatter-hoarding rodents in areas with red squirrels. Seed predators can therefore drive the evolution of seed defences, which in turn favour alternative seed dispersal mutualisms that lead to major changes in the mode of seed dispersal. Given that adaptive evolution in response to antagonists frequently impedes one kind of mutualistic interaction, the evolution of alternative mutualistic interactions may be a common by-product.
XVis: an educational open-source program for demonstration of reciprocal-space construction and diffraction principles
Authors: Yefanov Oleksandr , Kladko Vasyl , Slobodyan Mykola , Polischuk Yulia
Published: May 2008

The programXVisis designed for interactive demonstration of different diffraction issues, such as reciprocal-space construction, connection between real and reciprocal spaceviadiffraction phenomena, different methods of reciprocal-space scanning, accessible reciprocal-space regions for coplanar and noncoplanar diffraction for both transmission and reflection geometries,N-beam diffraction phenomena, reciprocal space for two-layered systems and experimental examples. All demonstrations are calculated using real structure parameters. For better information representation, the program displays most demonstrations in real and reciprocal space simultaneously. The program is open source and can be downloaded from http://x-ray.net.ua/xvis.html.
Involvement of 15‐lipoxygenase and prostaglandin EP receptors in aspirin‐triggered 15‐hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid generation in aspirin‐sensitive asthmatics
Authors: Jedrzejczak‐Czechowicz M. , Lewandowska‐Polak A. , Bienkiewicz B. , Kowalski M. L.
Published: May 2008

Background
The mechanism of aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid: ASA) hypersensitivity in asthmatic patients is related to arachidonic acid metabolism abnormalities, and specific triggering by ASA of 15‐hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (15‐HETE) generation was observed in leucocytes from aspirin‐sensitive (AS) but not from aspirin‐tolerant (AT) asthmatics.

Objective
The aim of this study was to identify the enzymatic pathway involved in ASA‐induced 15‐HETE generation in AS asthmatics and to assess the regulatory role of prostaglandin EP receptors.

Methods
Peripheral blood leucocytes (PBLs) were isolated from AS (n=18) and AT (n=20) asthmatics and challenged with ASA, with and without pre‐incubation with caffeic acid (CA) [15‐lipoxygenase (15‐LO) inhibitor] or prostaglandin receptor non‐specific (misoprostol, sulprostone) and specific EP1–4 receptors agonists. Eicosanoids were measured in supernatants using specific immunoassays.

Results
Aspirin triggered 15‐HETE generation in PBLs of AS asthmatics (mean increase 292%) but not in AT asthmatics and inhibited prostaglandin2 (PGE2) generation in both groups of patients to the same degree. Leucocytes from AS patients produced less PGE2, both before and after ASA incubation. Pre‐incubation of PBLs with CA decreased basal 15‐HETE production in all patients and completely inhibited ASA‐induced 15‐HETE generation in AS asthmatics. CA did not change basal PGE2 production but enhanced induced by ASA inhibition of PGE2. Non‐specific agonists of EP receptors (misoprostol and sulprostone) did not affect basal 15‐HETE production but inhibited in a dose‐dependent manner the ASA‐induced increase of 15‐HETE generation in AS asthmatics. On the contrary, in AT asthmatics, pre‐incubation of PBLs with misoprostol or sulprostone resulted in a significant increase in 15‐HETE generation after addition of ASA (200 μm). EP1–3 receptor agonists inhibited (range 72–94%) the ASA‐induced 15‐HETE production significantly.

Conclusion
Our study demonstrated that ASA‐triggered 15‐HETE generation involves the activation of 15‐LO and is modulated by prostaglandin EP1–3 receptors. The relevance of these observations to the mechanism of in vivo ASA‐induced asthmatic attack remains to be established.
An unusual case of root perforation caused by surgical trephination
Authors: Kosti E. , Molyvdas I. , Lambrianidis T.
Published: May 2008

Aim  To present the diagnosis and management of an unusual case of root perforation caused by surgical trephination.

Summary  A root perforation caused by surgical trephination on a maxillary lateral incisor with diagnosis of symptomatic chronic periradicular periodontitis was managed with standard root canal preparation and filling with thermoplasticized gutta‐percha. Recall radiographs up to 1 year revealed healing of the periapical lesion.

Key learning points 

During surgical trephination, there is risk of damaging anatomical structures surrounding the tooth as well as the tooth itself.

Root perforation caused by trephination was successfully managed by standard canal preparation and filling with thermoplasticized gutta‐percha.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: The biogeography of avian extinctions on oceanic islands
Authors: Karels Tim J. , Dobson F. Stephen , Trevino Heather S. , Skibiel Amy L.
Published: May 2008

Aim  To test the influences of island area, island isolation, and human‐introduced mammalian predators on avian extinctions that have occurred on oceanic islands worldwide.

Location  The oceanic islands of the world.

Methods  We augmented and re‐examined an existing data set for 218 oceanic islands by means of causal modelling using path analysis (a form of structural equation modelling) and a null model.

Results  The number of extinctions was not a simple function of the number of bird species on the various islands. Whereas introduced mammalian predators had an influence on the number of extinctions, island area (via indirect influences) and isolation (via direct influences) were equally or more important.

Main conclusions  The multiple influences of physical and biotic factors on past extinctions can be revealed through modelling the causal influences of physical attributes of islands on biological characteristics, and the causal influences of both physical and biological characteristics on extinctions.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Not as the crow flies: assessing effective isolation for island biogeographical analysis
Authors: Diver Kim C.
Published: May 2008

Aim To evaluate the role of island isolation in explaining the distribution of vascular plant species in a dense freshwater archipelago, specifically comparing conventional measures of island isolation with landscape measures of island isolation.

Location Data were collected from 35 islands within Massasauga Provincial Park on the eastern shores of the Georgian Bay, Ontario, Canada.

Methods Sampled islands were located using stratified random selection based on location and size variation. The number of species was recorded along stratified random transects. Island isolation variables included distance to the mainland, distance to the nearest island, largest gap in a stepping‐stone sequence, distance to the closest upwind point of land, and a landscape measure of island isolation. The landscape measure of isolation was quantified as the percentage of the land area within 100, 250, 500, 1000, 1500 and 2000 m of each island’s perimeter. The isolation variables were calculated within a geographical information system (GIS). Dependent variables in the regression analyses included species richness, the logarithm of species richness and residuals of the species–area relationship. Independent variables included island isolation variables and their logarithmic transformations.

Results Isolation plays a role, albeit small, in explaining species richness in the study area. In the regression analyses, the landscape measure of isolation provided a better fit than conventional measures of island isolation. Islands with less land than water within a 250‐m buffer were more effectively isolated and had fewer species present than islands surrounded by a greater proportion of water.

Main conclusions Consistent with the species–isolation relationship, fewer species were present on more isolated islands within the Massasauga study area, as elucidated using a series of island buffers in a GIS. Applying a landscape measure of isolation to similar dense, freshwater archipelagos may elucidate species–isolation patterns not evident through conventional, straight‐line distance measurements of island isolation. The low value of the regression coefficients as well as the isolation history and high density of the Massasauga islands suggests caution in extending the results, especially to dissimilar archipelagos.
The invasive plant Alliaria petiolata (garlic mustard) inhibits ectomycorrhizal fungi in its introduced range
Authors: Wolfe Benjamin E. , Rodgers Vikki L. , Stinson Kristina A. , Pringle Anne
Published: May 2008

Ectomycorrhizal (EM) fungi play key roles in forest ecosystems, but the potential effects of invasive plants on EM fungal communities have not been assessed. In this study, we tested whether the non‐mycorrhizal herbaceous plant Alliaria petiolata (garlic mustard) can alter the abundance of EM fungal communities in North America.

In three forests in New England, USA, we compared EM root tip abundance in soils where A. petiolata had invaded to adjacent areas without a history of A. petiolata invasion. At one site, we also intensively sampled EM root tip abundance across the edges of A. petiolata patches to determine the spatial pattern of A. petiolata effects on EM fungi. In a glasshouse experiment, we experimentally invaded soils with A. petiolata and Impatiens capensis, a native species and compared EM fungal colonization of white pine (Pinus strobus) seedlings grown in both soils. We also measured the effect of the A. petiolata allelochemical benzyl isothiocyanate on the growth of three species of EM fungi in pure culture.

In the field, EM fungal root tip biomass was lower in invaded soils, with the strongest reductions observed in forests dominated by conifers. Alliaria petiolata invasion did not have a significant effect on total root biomass. The influence of A. petiolata on EM fungal abundance in the field was localized, with the strongest inhibition observed within 10 cm of the edge of A. petiolata patches.

Pine seedlings growing in soils that were experimentally invaded with A. petiolata also had lower EM fungal root tip biomass compared to uninvaded soils. The native species I. capensis caused similar reductions in EM fungal colonization. Growth of pure cultures of all three species of EM fungi was completely inhibited by benzyl isothiocyanate.

Synthesis. Alliaria petiolata inhibits the growth of EM fungi in forests of its introduced range. Changes in EM fungal communities caused by the invasion of A. petiolata may influence tree seedling establishment and biogeochemical cycling.
Volatiles of myrmecophytic Piper plants signal stem tissue damage to inhabiting Pheidole ant‐partners
Authors: Mayer Veronika , Schaber Daniel , Hadacek Franz
Published: May 2008

The major aim of this paper was to explore the mechanistic basis of induced defensive ant response in myrmecophytic Piper species and their ant‐partner Pheidole bicornis by combining experimental trials and chemical analysis.

In field experiments, the response of Pheidole ants to simulated stem‐damage of their host plant was documented. Their reaction to other myrmecophytic and non‐myrmecophytic Piper species was explored by fixing respective stem sections onto inhabited Piper fimbriulatum individuals. After artificial damage to stems of P. fimbriulatum and stem sections from other myrmecophytic Piper, the number of ants increased to a maximum of 63 individuals on the damaged internode within the first 10 min. By contrast, no or only a poor reaction was elicited by stem sections from the selected non‐myrmecophytic Piper species.

Solid‐phase microextraction/gas chromatography–mass spectrometry identified 68 volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which were emitted from wounded stem bark of three myrmecophytic (P. fimbriulatum, P. obliquum, P. sagittifolium) and two non‐myrmecophytic (P. hispidum, P. riparense) Piper species, comprising monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, simple aromatic compounds, and green leaf volatiles (GLVs, oxylipins). Despite considerable variation in the VOC profiles, an analysis of similarities (anosim) classified the accumulation of the sesquiterpenes β‐caryophyllene, germacrene D and emission of the oxylipin reactive electrophilic species (RES) compounds hexanal, cis‐3‐hexene‐1‐ol, 2‐hexenal, 2‐undecanone and 1‐hexanol as characteristic of the myrmecophytic species.

Synthesis. Field experiments showed that mechanical disturbance of myrmecophytic Piper stems is not sufficient to elicit recruitment and alertness of the ant‐partner Ph. bicornis, but that specific volatiles released from the host plant are responsible. Analyses of the VOCs identified after simulated stem damage of three myrmecophytic and two non‐myrmecophytic Piper species revealed differences in their VOC emission profiles: Only in the myrmecophytic species were induced stress compounds found, such as various oxylipin RES or the sesquiterpene β‐caryophyllene, which are typically emitted after plant damage for interplant signalling. Some of these compounds (e.g. hexanal, 1‐hexanol) are known to induce alerting and alarm behaviours in several ant species. Our study provides evidence that the VOCs of the Piper host plant may signal stem damage and induce recruitment and alert behaviour of associated Pheidole ants.
Ecogenomics of cleistogamous and chasmogamous flowering: genome‐wide gene expression patterns from cross‐species microarray analysis in Cardamine kokaiensis (Brassicaceae)
Authors: Morinaga Shin‐Ichi , Nagano Atsushi J. , Miyazaki Saori , Kubo Minoru , Demura Taku , Fukuda Hiroo , Sakai Satoki , Hasebe Mitsuyasu
Published: May 2008

Cleistogamy is a mating system found in approximately 300 species of flowering plants. Cleistogamous plants produce closed (cleistogamous, CL) flowers that require obligate self‐pollination and open (chasmogamous, CH) flowers that allow for outcross‐pollination. CL and CH flowers are induced by various environmental factors; this appears to be an adaptive mating strategy in unpredictable environments.

We examined the molecular basis of CL and CH flowering in Cardamine kokaiensis, which is closely related to the model flowering plant Arabidopsis thaliana. CL and CH flowering should be regulated by gene expression that is dependent on environmental conditions. By elucidating the molecular basis of CL and CH flowering, we can determine the changes in gene regulatory networks involved in the transition from CH to CL flowering. Furthermore, these results may help clarify the molecular evolutionary mechanisms leading to cleistogamy.

We regulated CL and CH flowering of C. kokaiensis using chilling treatments in a growth chamber. In a control treatment without chilling, C. kokaiensis produced CH and intermediate (INT) flowers. Long chilling of seedlings led to INT flowers, while long chilling of seeds induced the formation of CL flowers. Chilling seeds, and to a lesser extent of seedlings, induced early flowering and small plant size at flowering.

We also conducted a cross‐species microarray analysis to compare gene expression patterns between CL and CH flowers using genomic DNA‐based probe‐selection strategy in an A. thaliana microarray. In this result, 69 genes, including genes related to floral development, auxin, flowering time, cold‐stress, and drought‐stress, were differentially expressed between CL and CH flowers.

Synthesis. This is the first report on the molecular basis of cleistogamy. We hypothesize that the interaction between the genetic network of the chilling response and that of floral development has been important in the evolution of cleistogamy in C. kokaiensis. Our results help to clarify the molecular basis for the evolution of plant mating systems that depend on environmental conditions.
The removal torque of titanium implant inserted in rabbit femur coated with biomimetic deposited Ca–P coating
Authors: FUMING H. , GUOLI Y. , XIAOXIANG W. , SHIFANG Z.
Published: May 2008

Summary  A number of experimental data on biomimetic deposition CaP (BDCaP) coating implants have reported promising outcomes by histological evaluation. But little is investigated on the role of the BDCaP coating and osseointegration mechanism by interface shear strength. To make a direct biomechanical comparison between the BDCaP coating implants and the uncoated rough titanium implants (control), a well‐established animal model for implants removal torque testing was employed in rabbits, using a self‐matching experimental design. All implants had an identical cylindrical screw shape without any macroscopic retentive structure. After 2, 4, 6, 8 and 12 weeks of bone healing, removal torque testing was performed to evaluate the interfacial shear strength of each implant type. The torqued implants were sputter‐coated with gold for morphology observation and observed with a field‐emission electron microscopy. Results showed that the interfacial shear strength of the BDCaP coating implants was similar to that of the uncoated rough implants at 2 and 4 weeks of healing. The mean removal torque values of the BDCaP coating implants were lower than those of control implants (P < 0·05) after 6 weeks of healing. The removal torque values for both types of implants revealed similar mean values after 8 and 12 weeks of healing; there were no significant difference between the two types of implants (P > 0·05). It can be concluded that the BDCaP coating implants had no beneficial effect on the interfacial shear strength at early bone healing stage.
Effectiveness of microwave disinfection of complete dentures on the treatment of Candida‐related denture stomatitis
Authors: NEPPELENBROEK K. H. , PAVARINA A. C. , PALOMARI SPOLIDORIO D. M. , SGAVIOLI MASSUCATO E. M. , SPOLIDORIO L. C. , VERGANI C. E.
Published: May 2008

Summary  The effectiveness of microwave disinfection of maxillary complete dentures on the treatment of Candida‐related denture stomatitis was evaluated. Patients (n = 60) were randomly assigned to one of four treatment groups of 15 subjects each; Control group: patients performed the routine denture care; Mw group: patients had their upper denture microwaved (650 W per 6 min) three times per week for 30 days; group MwMz: patients received the treatment of Mw group in conjunction with topical application of miconazole three times per day for 30 days; group Mz: patients received the antifungal therapy of group MwMz. Cytological smears and mycological cultures were taken from the dentures and the palates of all patients before treatment at day 15 and 30 of treatment and at follow‐up (days 60 and 90). The effectiveness of the treatments was evaluated by Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney tests. Microbial and clinical analysis of the control group demonstrated no significant decrease in the candidal infection over the clinical trial. Smears and cultures of palates and dentures of the groups Mw and MwMz exhibited absence of Candida at day 15 and 30 of treatment. On day 60 and 90, few mycelial forms were observed on 11 denture smears (36·6%) from groups Mw and MwMz, but not on the palatal smears. Miconazole (group Mz) neither caused significant reduction of palatal inflammation nor eradicated Candida from the dentures and palates. Microwaving dentures was effective for the treatment of denture stomatitis. The recurrence of Candida on microwaved dentures at follow‐up was dramatically reduced.
Assessing the extent of genome‐wide intralocus sexual conflict via experimentally enforced gender‐limited selection
Authors: MORROW E. H. , STEWART A. D. , RICE W. R.
Published: May 2008

Intralocus sexual conflict, which occurs when a trait is selected in opposite directions in the two sexes, is a taxonomically widespread phenomenon. The strongest genetic evidence for a gender load due to intralocus sexual conflict comes from the Drosophila melanogaster laboratory model system, in which a negative genetic correlation between male and female lifetime fitness has been observed. Here, using a D. melanogaster model system, we utilize a novel modification of the ‘middle class neighbourhood’ design to relax selection in one sex, while maintaining selection in the other. After 26 generations of asymmetrical selection, we observed the expected drop in fitness of the non‐selected sex compared to that of the selected sex, consistent with previous studies of intralocus sexual conflict in this species. However, the fitness of the selected sex also dropped compared to the base population. The overall decline in fitness of both the selected and the unselected sex indicates that most new mutations are harmful to both sexes, causing recurrent mutation to build a positive genetic correlation for fitness between the sexes. However, the steeper decay in the fitness of the unselected sex indicates that a substantial number of mutations are gender‐limited in expression or sexually antagonistic. Our experiment cannot definitively resolve these two possibilities, but we use recent genomic data and results from previous studies to argue that sexually antagonistic alleles are the more likely explanation.
Effect of an empowerment‐based nutrition promotion program on food consumption and serum lipid levels in hyperlipidemic Thai elderly
Authors: Boonyasopun Umaporn , Aree Patcharaporn , Avant Kay C.
Published: May 2008

Abstract  This quasi‐experimental study examined the effects of an empowerment‐based nutrition promotion program on food consumption and serum lipid levels among hyperlipidemic Thai elderly. Fifty‐six experimental subjects received the program; 48 control subjects maintained their habitual lifestyle. The statistical methods used were the t‐test, Z‐test, and χ2/Fisher's exact test. After the program, the consumption of high saturated fat, cholesterol, and simple sugar diets was significantly lower for the experimental group than for the control group. The percentage change of the serum total cholesterol of the experimental subjects was significantly higher than that of the control subjects. The number of experimental subjects that changed from hyperlipidemia to normolipidemia significantly increased compared to that for the control subjects. The implementation of this program was related to an improvement in food consumption and serum lipid levels among hyperlipidemic Thai elderly and, therefore, has implications for practice.
Perspectives of Swedish patients on postoperative pain management
Authors: Idvall Ewa , Bergqvist Anna , Silverhjelm Jenny , Unosson Mitra
Published: May 2008

Abstract  This study aimed to describe the perspectives of surgical patients towards postoperative pain management during their hospital stay. Thirty strategically chosen postoperative inpatients from different surgical wards in a university hospital in Sweden participated. A qualitative, descriptive approach using individual interviews was chosen. These were tape‐recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed according to a qualitative content analysis. The patients' descriptions of postoperative pain management indicated that pain was a symptom that was always in focus, either because it was constantly present or because pain could appear abruptly during different activities and movements. Although the focus was on pain and an awareness that it should be relieved or avoided, the solutions were often routine, short‐term, and involved the regular intake of drugs, plus additional medication if needed for an acute pain episode. From the patients' descriptions of their experience with postoperative pain management, we distinguished three categories: “patients' pain knowledge”, “patients' pain management approaches”, and “patients' views of health‐care professionals”. The findings from this study highlight important aspects of nursing care that should receive greater attention in postoperative pain management. The patients' narratives could be a valuable asset in the quality improvement of postoperative pain management as these narratives highlight episodes difficult to elicit in other ways.
Influence of workplace demands on nurses' perception of patient safety
Authors: Ramanujam Rangaraj , Abrahamson Kathleen , Anderson James G.
Published: May 2008

Abstract  Patient safety is an ongoing challenge in the design and delivery of health‐care services. As registered nurses play an integral role in patient safety, further examination of the link between nursing work and patient safety is warranted. The present study examines the relationship between nurses' perceptions of job demands and nurses' perceptions of patient safety. Structural equation modeling is used to analyze the data collected from a survey of 430 registered nurses at two community hospitals in the USA. As hypothesized, nurses' perception of patient safety decreases as the job demands increase. The level of personal control over practice directly affects nurses' perception of the ability to assure patient well‐being. Nurses who work full‐time and are highly educated have a decreased perception of patient safety, as well. The significant relationship between job demands and patient safety confirms that nurses make a connection between their working conditions and the ability to deliver safe care.
Through the eyes of women: Cultural insights into living as a battered woman in Hawaii
Authors: Magnussen Lois , Amundson Mary Jane , Smith Nancy
Published: May 2008

Abstract  This phenomenological study examined the impact of culture on the lived experience of women who were victims of intimate partner violence (IPV). The analysis of the data, using the method of Colaizzi, yielded three theme clusters: “living in misery”, “enduring terror and sadness”, and “no happy ending”. They revealed the essential structure of living in a violent situation. The women, from diverse cultural backgrounds, had similar individual responses to violence. Although on a societal level, responses to violence are unique, the results revealed that women's responses were very personal and common across cultures, demonstrating their fundamental humanness. This finding underscores the importance of providing caring, individual support when working with victims of IPV, even though various cultures might perceive IPV differently. An ecological model for understanding the responses to IPV includes both individual and group perspectives related to IPV and the factors that influence the behavior of both women and men.
Gender equality or patriarchal dividend: Structural change in Turkish nursing
Authors: Herdman Elizabeth , Badir Aysel
Published: May 2008

Abstract  Turkey is attempting to join the European Union and is facing pressure to eliminate many forms of discrimination, including discrimination based on gender. In keeping with these aims, in early 2007 the Turkish government changed the law to permit Turkish men to become nurses. Given that Turkey is a highly patriarchal society and that occupational segregation by sex is a persistent feature, it is important to examine the potential outcome of the legislative changes. The aim of this paper is to explore the paradoxical potential for Turkish female nurses to experience increased discrimination in a system that is restructured by legislation to be non‐discriminatory.