bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effect of Orally Administered Egg Yolk Antibodies onSalmonella enteritidisContamination of Hen's Eggs
Authors: Gürtler M. , Methner U. , Kobilke H. , Fehlhaber K. 
Published: April 2004

SummaryThe influence of oral application of anti‐Salmonellaegg yolk antibodies on thein vivoSalmonellacontamination rate of eggs laid by experimentally infected hens was investigated. Antibody containing egg powder was obtained by spray drying of whole egg contents from hens immunized with twoSalmonella enteritidis(S. enteritidis) strains. The whole egg powder was administered orally to a laying hen group. The effects of anti‐Salmonellaegg yolk antibodies in this experimental group were compared with a control group. In experiment 1, hens were infected orally with 2 × 109colony‐forming units (CFU) ofS. enteritidisper hen, compared with experiment 2 with an infection dose of 2 × 108 CFU/hen. Eggs laid by the experimental and the control groups were monitored forS. enteritidis; egg shells, the albumen and the egg yolk were sampled separately. Results indicated that the rate ofSalmonellacontaminated eggs of laying hens – experimentally infected withS. enteritidisat an infection dose of 2 × 108 CFU/hen – could be reduced by oral administration of whole egg powder containingS. enteritidis‐specific antibodies. In the experimental group 13.3% of the eggs wereSalmonellapositive, which was significantly different from 29.4%Salmonella‐positive eggs in the control group (P ≤ 0.001). The use of antibody containing whole egg powder as a feed additive may be an alternative way to reduce theSalmonellacontamination rate of hens eggs. The protective effect may have been due to the antibodies raised by vaccination of hens againstS. enteritidis.
Regime shifts in the breeding of an Atlantic puffin population
Authors: Durant Joël M. , Anker‐Nilssen Tycho , Hjermann Dag Ø. , Stenseth Nils Chr. 
Published: April 2004

AbstractTiming of breeding is a key factor determining the reproductive success in bird populations and known to be affected by climate fluctuations. We investigated the long‐term (1978–2002) relationship between climate and hatching date within a population of Atlantic puffin Fratercula arctica at Røst in the Norwegian Sea. The timing of puffin breeding was found to be influenced by the North Atlantic Oscillation winter index (NAO). We isolated two temporal regimes, one where NAO had a significant effect on hatching date (1978–1986 and 1995–2002) and one where these variables were independent (1987–1994). Hatching date could be modelled using, in addition to NAO, hatching date and food abundance in the preceding breeding season (possibly proxies of parental effort). The models remained significant for regime 1 but not for regime 2. NAO differed between the two regimes suggesting that the shifts were induced by climate change, possibly via its effect on the availability of prey in the preceding year. The novelty of our study is the identification of temporal regimes in the effects of climate within one population.
Scaling up evolutionary responses to elevated CO2: lessons from Arabidopsis
Authors: Ward Joy K. , Kelly John K. 
Published: April 2004

AbstractResults from norm of reaction studies and selection experiments indicate that elevated CO2 will act as a selective agent on natural plant populations, especially for C3 species that are most sensitive to changes in atmospheric CO2 concentration. Evolutionary responses to CO2 may alter plant physiology, development rate, growth, and reproduction in ways that cannot be predicted from single generation studies. Moreover, ecological and evolutionary changes in plant communities will have a range of consequences at higher spatial scales and may cause substantial deviations from ecosystem level predictions based on short‐term responses to elevated CO2. Therefore, steps need to be taken to identify the plant traits that are most likely to evolve at elevated CO2, and to understand how these changes may affect net primary productivity within ecosystems. These processes may range in scale from molecular and physiological changes that occur among genotypes at the individual and population levels, to changes in community‐ and ecosystem‐level productivity that result from the integrative effects of different plant species evolving simultaneously. In this review, we (1) synthesize recent studies investigating the role of atmospheric CO2 as a selective agent on plants, (2) discuss possible control points during plant development that may change in response to selection at elevated CO2 with an emphasis at the primary molecular level, and (3) provide a quantitative framework for scaling the evolutionary effects of CO2 on plants in order to determine changes in community and ecosystem productivity. Furthermore, this review points out that studies integrating the effects of plant evolution in response to elevated CO2 are lacking, and therefore more attention needs be devoted to this issue among the global change research community.
Perturbation and abrupt shift in trophic control of biodiversity and productivity
Authors: Schmitz Oswald J. 
Published: April 2004

AbstractEcology is founded on the view that ecosystem properties like biodiversity and productivity change smoothly with changing environmental conditions. However, emerging theory predicts that environmental change may cause abrupt shifts to alternate states. In many ecosystems, top predators play a pivotal role in controlling plant productivity and diversity. Yet it remains uncertain if altering this control shifts systems to alternate states. I report on a test of the hypothesis that loss of predator control of ecosystem function causes abrupt state changes in diversity and productivity. In this meadow ecosystem, predators enhance plant diversity by causing a highly productive, competitively dominant plant species to be suppressed by herbivores. Experimental predator removal caused rapid proliferation of the competitively dominant plant. Moreover, temporally staggered predator reintroductions failed to restore the ecosystem. This loss of resilience confirmed that the ecosystem crossed a critical threshold and entrained into an alternate state.
Resource dynamic plays a key role in regional fluctuations of the spruce bark beetles Ips typographus
Authors: Økland Bjørn , Berryman Alan 
Published: April 2004

Abstract  1 We analysed time series of spruce bark beetles (Nt) caught in pheromone traps from 1979 to 2000 in approximately 100 localities throughout south‐east Norway.2 The analysis was performed at two spatial scales (whole area and 12 subregions), and included additional analyses of the time‐series sequences before and after a large windfelling (1987) that appeared to induce a shift in the dynamics.3 Regression of Rt (logarithmic per‐capita growth rate) on Nt − d indicated that the endogenous dynamics were dominated by lag 1 density dependence. This was particularly so in the sequence after the large windfelling (R2 = 0.79), probably due to intraspecific competition for breeding substrate.4 The sequence before the windfelling (1979–1987) was declining without significant density dependence. We suggest this to be a transition period, reflecting a drop in carrying capacity due to depletion of susceptible trees during the preceding outbreak period (1970s) and a drop in beetle number to below the density required to kill trees.5 Windfelling (Wt − 1) appears to be an important predictor of the dynamics; however, it was difficult to evaluate the statistical significance of this factor due to only one large windfall event.6 The weak influence of drought stress (Dt − 1) could be due to the absence of severe drought periods within the time series.
Feeding responses of carabid beetles to dimethoate‐contaminated prey
Authors: Mauchline Alice L. , Osborne Juliet L. , Powell Wilf 
Published: April 2004

Abstract  1 The feeding responses of Pterostichus madidus Fab., P. melanarius Illiger and Nebria brevicollis Fab. (Coleoptera: Carabidae) to dimethoate‐contaminated prey were investigated in ‘no‐choice’ and ‘choice’ feeding tests.2 In the no‐choice tests, starved beetles were presented with aphid prey treated with four concentrations of dimethoate. In the choice tests, treated and untreated prey were presented together and the feeding preferences of the starved beetles observed.3 No avoidance or rejection behaviour was seen in any of the carabids in either of the tests, i.e. no discrimination of the treated and untreated prey was observed.4 Sufficient dimethoate was consumed with the aphid prey to cause significant mortality levels in the carabids.5 The concentrations of dimethoate used in these experiments are comparable to field exposure, so carabids feeding in treated fields and field margins could potentially suffer lethal effects via the indirect exposure route of consuming contaminated prey.
Mixed mating strategies and pollination by insects and wind in coconut palm (Cocos nuciferaL. (Arecaceae)): importance in production and selection
Authors: Meléndez‐Ramírez V. , Parra‐Tabla V. , Kevan P. G. , Ramírez‐Morillo I. , Harries H. , Fernández‐Barrera M. , Zizumbo‐Villareal D. 
Published: April 2004

Abstract 1 Coconut is one of the most important tropical crops. It is threatened by Lethal yellowing disease. Production and selection by breeding require pollination, yet little is known of the pollination requirements and breeding system of this palm.2 This study was carried out from 1999 to 2001 in coconut plantations represented by five coconut ecotypes commonly found in Mexico. It is the first study in the Neotropics on pollination and the breeding system of this palm.3 Hymenoptera were the most numerous and diverse visitors to coconut flowers. The greatest period of insect abundance occurred during the rainy season (July to October). Insect abundance on the flowers correlated highly and positively with precipitation.4 The abundance of visitors to pistillate flowers did not vary with season but there were significant differences between palm ecotypes; the most insect‐visited flowers were of the Atlantic Tall ecotype.5 The introduced honeybee (Apis mellifera) had the most appropriate foraging behaviour, visiting both pistillate and staminate flowers. These insects were probably the most efficient pollinators as they carry pollen on their ventral surface. Ants were present on flowers day and night but had no effect on pollination.6 Pollination experiments indicated a mixed mating strategy: self‐pollination by geitenogamy produced almost 19% of the fruit set, but cross‐pollination (xenogamy) was the most important contribution (c. 30%). Anemophilous cross‐pollination only accounted for 10% of fruit set, whereas entomophily became the most important pollination mechanism under Yucatan conditions.7 As coconut palm grows naturally on the oceanic strand in a wide variety of seasonal conditions of wind and rain, we suggest that they may have evolved pollination, breeding and mating systems that ensure fruit production under a wide variety of conditions, while maximizing the probability of cross‐pollination.
A retrospective evaluation of rectal irrigation in the treatment of disorders of faecal continence
Authors: Crawshaw A. P. , Pigott L. , Potter M. A. , Bartolo D. C. C. 
Published: April 2004

AbstractObjectives  The aim of this study was, firstly, to evaluate the efficacy and acceptability of rectal irrigation in the treatment of patients with disorders of faecal continence that have not responded to other treatment modalities. Secondly, to see if standard anorectal physiology measures can identify patients who might have successful treatment with rectal irrigation.Patients and methods  All patients who had been treated with rectal irrigation, between 1998 and 2000, were sent a postal questionnaire. Patients were asked to quantify their symptoms (before and after rectal irrigation) using a visual analogue scale to determine the efficacy of rectal irrigation. An increase of 10 (10 mm) in this score was regarded as successful treatment and incontinence scores obtained. The acceptability of rectal irrigation was determined using a Quality of Life questionnaire. Data regarding presenting symptoms, previous therapies, pretreatment anorectal physiology measurements were obtained from a retrospective case note and database review.Results  Completed questionnaires were obtained from 48 (52%) of 92 patients, 39 patients had had previous medical and/or surgical treatment before trying rectal irrigation. At the time of the questionnaire 44 of 48 patients were still using rectal irrigation. Using the linear analogue scores 24 of 48 (50%) reported an improvement in their symptoms using rectal irrigation. Most patients found the treatment acceptable. Incontinence scores and anorectal physiology measures did not predict those patients who responded successfully to rectal irrigation.Conclusion  Rectal irrigation can offer symptomatic improvement to patients with faecal evacuatory disorders where other therapies have failed. Most patients find the treatment acceptable. Standard anorectal physiology measures and incontinence scores do not predict those patients likely to have successful treatment.
Parastomal hernia repair
Authors: Rieger N. , Moore J. , Hewett P. , Lee S. , Stephens J. 
Published: April 2004

AbstractObjective  The aim of this study was to audit the results of parastomal hernia repair.Methods  A retrospective review was made of all patients having parastomal hernia repair at 2 teaching hospitals over a 12‐year period.Results  Forty‐three patients had 51 parastomal hernia repairs. Three types of hernia repair were used: 14 (28%) local suture, 19 (37%) local mesh repair and 18 (35%) stoma relocation. Three patients died and significant complications occurred in 65% of repairs. Parastomal hernia recurred in 18 (38%) of repairs. This was greatest with a sutured repair (59%) and least in patients having stoma relocation (24%). Repair with mesh was associated with a 39% recurrence rate. No significant statistical difference was found for the results of these repairs.Conclusion  Parastomal hernia repair is associated with high rates of morbidity, mortality and recurrence. Repair should not be undertaken without a good indication.
Artificial bowel sphincter in severe anal incontinence
Authors: Casal E. , San Ildefonso A. , Carracedo R. , Facal C. , Sánchez J. A. 
Published: April 2004

SummaryObjective  The artificial anal sphincter has been suggested as an alternative in the treatment of severe anal incontinence when conventional surgical methods are not possible or have failed. Experience in this procedure is still limited and the results have not yet been sufficiently established. The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of the ACTICON® (American Medical Systems, Minneapolis, MN) on patients operated upon in our Unit.Patients and method  In this prospective study an ACTICON® sphincter was implanted in 10 patients (8 women) with an average age of 56 years and with an average period of severe anal incontinence of 151 months. The origin of incontinence was obstetric injury (n: 4), neuropathy (n: 3) and sphincteral injury from previous anal surgery (n: 3). The degree of continence was measured using the Fecal Incontinence Scoring System (FISS) and the pre‐ and postoperative anal manometric parameters at 6‐month intervals. The average follow‐up time for the efficacy of the implanted system was 29 months.Results  A total of 6 patients[60%] displayed complications in the immediate postoperative period: subaponeurotic reimplantation of the connecting tubes was necessary after infection of the abdominal wound (n:1); superficial dehiscence of the perianal wound (n: 2), infection of the perianal wound (n: 1) and perianal haematoma (n: 2) that were resolved by conservative treatment. For 3 patients[30%] the system was explanted, definitively in one and in 2 of them reimplanted successfully. At the end of the follow‐up period, 9 patients[90%] still have an activated artificial sphincter. The score on the Fecal Incontinence System decreased significantly after the system was activated (P < 0,0001) and the pressure with the cuff closed was significantly higher than pre‐operative anal pressure (P < 0,0001). All the patients are now continent for solid stool, 56% have occasional involuntary losses of gases and 33% occasionally have involuntary losses of gases and liquid stool. Only 2 patients[22%] have complete continence.Conclusions  Our findings indicate that the ACTICON® artificial anal sphincter is well tolerated and can be an effective alternative in the treatment of severe anal incontinence. Although complete continence is only achieved in a low percentage of cases, for the rest of the patients the ACTICON® neosphincter reduces the symptoms considerably.
Entrepreneurial Boldness and Excessive Investment
Authors: Brocas Isabelle , Carrillo Juan D. 
Published: April 2004

We analyze investment by a population of hyperbolic discounting entrepreneurs. In order to avoid inefficient procrastination, agents with good prospects about their chances of success may choose to forego free information and to invest boldly. This explains an excessive level of investment in the economy. Building on this observation, we show that low risk‐free interest rates favor bold entrepreneurship and entry mistakes. Furthermore, public intervention can be socially desirable: Forcing agents to acquire information before deciding whether to invest may reduce competitive interest rates and may be beneficial for all individuals in the economy.
And thus the native hue of resolution  Is sicklied o'er with the pale cast of thought,  And enterprises of great pith and moment  With this regard their currents turn awry,  And lose the name of action.            Hamlet, Act 3: Scene 1.
Developing A Database to Describe the Practice Patterns of Adult Nurse Practitioner Students
Authors: O'Connor Nancy A. , Hameister Alicia D. , Kershaw Trace 
Published: April 2004

Purpose:To describe the practice patterns of adult nurse practitioner students using a database composed of core health data elements and standardized nursing language.Design:Descriptive study of 3,733 patient visits documented by 19 adult nurse practitioner students in the academic year 1996–1997.Methods:A database was designed for documenting the full scope of practice of adult nurse practitioner students by use of core health data elements and the standardized nursing languages of NANDA and NIC. Nurse practitioner students used the database to document every linical encounter during their final clinical year of study. Most visits occurred in ambulatory care settings in a midwestern American city.Findingsx:Based on the American Medical Association's Evaluation/Management coding system, data indicated that 50% of visits were classified as problem focused, while 31.9% were expanded, 10% were detailed, and 8.1% were comprehensive. The most frequently occurring NANDA diagnoses were pain, health‐seeking behavior, altered health maintenance, and knowledge deficit. The most frequently reported Nursing intervention classifications (NIC) were patient education, drug management, information management, and risk management.Conclusions:Using standardized nursing language to describe clinical encounters made visible the complex clinical decision‐making patterns of adult nurse practitioner students. Systematic use of a database designed for documenting the full scope of practice of nurse practitioner students showed the applicability of standardized nursing language to advanced practice nursing contexts.
Avoiding Gender and Minority Barriers to NIH Funding
Authors: Harden J. Taylor , McFarland Gertrude 
Published: April 2004

Purpose: To inform investigators of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) guidelines for the inclusion of women and minorities as subjects in clinical research and provide tips on avoiding barriers to federal funding.Methods: Information about gender and minority barriers to funding was obtained by reviewing NIH policies, information submitted by applicants, and comments provided by NIH reviewers.Organizing Framework: A brief history of the goals of U.S. federal legislation to increase opportunities for obtaining information to help enhance health and disease treatment for all Americans and to detect and account for ethnic and gender differences is described. Examples were derived from NIH Summary Statement comments of initial review groups.Conclusions: Applications submitted to NIH are being barred from initial funding, even with excellent priority scores, if the plan for inclusion of women and minorities is judged to be scientifically unacceptable by the initial review group. This situation is correctable and avoidable.
Important Attributes of Quality Health Care: Consumer Perspectives
Authors: Oermann Marilyn H. , Templin Thomas 
Published: April 2004

Purpose: Despite extensive research on defining and measuring health care quality, little attention has been given to consumers' perspectives of high‐quality health care. The purposes of this study were to (a) identify the importance to consumers of attributes of health care quality and nursing care quality, and (b) examine the relationship of consumer perspectives to health status and selected demographic variables.Design: Exploratory. Consumers (N = 239) were recruited from waiting rooms of clinics and in neighborhoods of a large metropolitan area in the Midwestern United States that included both urban and suburban populations.Methods: Participants completed the Quality Health Care Questionnaire (QHCQ) and the SF‐36 Health Survey. On the QHCQ, they rated the importance of 27 attributes of health care and nursing care quality. The SF‐36 is a 36‐item instrument for measuring health status in eight general areas.Findings: The most important indicators of high‐quality nursing care to consumers were: being cared for by nurses who are up‐to‐date and well informed; being able to communicate with the nurse; spending enough time with the nurse and not feeling rushed during the visit; having a nurse teach about the illness, medications, treatments, and staying healthy; and being able to call a nurse with questions. The lowest‐rated item was having an opportunity to be cared for by nurse practitioners. Ratings differed by race, age, years of education, income, and health status.Conclusions: The importance that consumers place on teaching by the nurse was emphasized, particularly among people with less education, low income levels, and chronic illnesses.