bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Escherichia coli RNA polymerase subunit ω and its N‐terminal domain bind full‐length β′ to facilitate incorporation into the α2β subassembly
Authors: Ghosh Pallavi , Ishihama Akira , Chatterji Dipankar 
Published: March 2003

The ω subunit of Escherichia coli RNA polymerase, consisting of 90 amino acids, is present in stoichiometric amounts per molecule of core RNA polymerase (α2ββ′). The presence of ω is necessary to restore denatured RNA polymerase in vitro to its fully functional form, and, in an ω‐less strain of E. coli, GroEL appears to substitute for ω in the maturation of RNA polymerase. The X‐ray structure of Thermus aquaticus core RNA polymerase suggests that two regions of ω latch on to β′ at its N‐terminus and C‐terminus. We show here that ω binds only the intact β′ subunit and not the β′ N‐terminal domain or β′ C‐terminal domain, implying that ω binding requires both these regions of β′. We further show that ω can prevent the aggregation of β′ during its renaturation in vitro and that a V8‐protease‐resistant 52‐amino‐acid‐long N‐terminal domain of ω is sufficient for binding and renaturation of β′. CD and functional assays show that this N‐terminal fragment retains the structure of native ω and is able to enhance the reconstitution of core RNA polymerase. Reconstitution of core RNA polymerase from its individual subunits proceeds according to the steps α + α → α2 + β → α2β + β′ → α2ββ′. It is shown here that ω participates during the last stage of enzyme assembly when β′ associates with the α2β subassembly.
Post‐Conflict Affiliation in Two Captive Groups of Black‐and‐White Guereza Colobus guereza
Authors: Björnsdotter Maria , Larsson Lena , Ljungberg Tomas 
Published: March 2003

AbstractPost‐conflict affiliation was studied in two captive groups of black‐and‐white guereza (Colobus guereza), a folivorous, arboreal species which lives in harems. The overall level of aggression was low and each individual was involved in only 0.054 aggressive interactions per hour. After 132 aggressive interactions observed during 364 h, former antagonists were found to seek each other out selectively and exchange affiliative behaviours. The first affiliative behaviour was likely to occur within the first minute after the end of the conflict. The post‐conflict affiliative behaviours most often seen were proximity, social grooming, embrace, reciprocal low‐intensity mouth‐opening, groom present and gentle hand touch, in descending order. The pattern of post‐conflict affiliation is thus similar to that observed in most other primate species studied. One notable exception seems to be the relatively high proportion of conflicts after which former opponents continue to remain within arm's reach (in 1/3 of the conflicts). If these instances of remaining‐in‐proximity were excluded, the corrected conciliatory tendency according to Veenema et al. (1994, Behav. Proc. 31, 29–38) was 45% (60% if they were included).
The Influence of Song Mode on Responses of Male American Redstarts
Authors: Nagle Laurent , Couroux Christina 
Published: March 2003

AbstractMale American redstarts (Setophaga ruticilla) exhibit two modes of singing: repeat and serial mode. Repeat mode consists of repetitions of a single song type, usually one possessing an accented terminal note. Serial mode is constituted by a series of different songs with unaccented terminal notes, sung in a versatile sequence. Different authors have observed that males discriminate between these two modes. In the experiments reported in this paper, we tested whether males use accented terminal notes, song versatility or both to discriminate between the two song modes. We observed that males responded more intensively to the accented song. The accented note seems a very important song characteristic for evoking male American redstart responses. In contrast, males did not show any difference in their response to single and varied serial songs.
Leaf Processing by Wild Chimpanzees: Physically Defended Leaves Reveal Complex Manual Skills
Authors: Corp Nadia , Byrne Richard W. 
Published: March 2003

AbstractThe manual processing of eight species of leaf was investigated in the M‐group chimpanzees of Mahale Mountains National Park, Tanzania. Leaf species varied in the extent to which physical defences made consumption difficult. In all, 96 distinct techniques for leaf processing were identified, but two species with defended leaves (Ficus asperifolia and F. exasperata) required 2.5 as many techniques as did any of the six undefended species. Moreover, chimpanzees made more multiple leaf detachments, and made more subsequent modifications of the leaves, when dealing with the leaves of these two Ficus species, compared with the undefended leaf species. This greater complexity was associated with evidence of flexible, hierarchical organization of the process: iteration of modules consisting of several processing elements, facultative omission of modules, or substitutions of alternative modules. Comparison with data from mountain gorillas is made, and is consistent with similar cognitive architecture in the two species. We consider that, not only is hierarchical organization currently associated with mechanical difficulty in food processing, but that over evolutionary time‐scales difficulties in food processing may have selected for cognitive advance.
Effects of UV‐B Radiation on Anti‐Predator Behavior in Amphibians: Reply to Cummins
Authors: Kats Lee B. , Kiesecker Joseph M. , Chivers Douglas P. , Blaustein Andrew R. 
Published: March 2003

Abstract Cummins' (2002) criticism of our paper (Kats et al. 2000) (1) displays a lack of understanding of experimental biology, (2) fails to report our results accurately, (3) places our paper in the wrong context, (4) seems unaware of much of the pertinent literature or selectively avoids certain references, and (5) takes the opportunity to criticize other papers examining the effects of ultraviolet radiation (UV, particularly UV‐B) on amphibians in the field. We address these issues below.
Understanding Social Behaviour with the Help of Complexity Science (Invited Article)
Authors: Hemelrijk Charlotte K. 
Published: March 2003

AbstractIn the study of complexity, a new kind of explanation has been developed for social behaviour. It shows how patterns of social behaviour can arise as a side‐effect of the interaction of individuals with their social or physical environment (e.g. by self‐organization). This development may influence our ideas about the direct causation and evolution of social behaviour. Furthermore, it may influence our theories about the integration of different traits. This new method has been made possible by the increase in computing power. It is now applied in many areas of science, such as physics, chemistry, sociology and economics. However, in zoology and anthropology it is still rare. The major aim of this paper is to make this method more generally accepted among behavioural scientists.
Fluctuating Asymmetry, Sexual Selection, and Survivorship in Male Dark‐Winged Damselflies
Authors: Beck Michelle L. , Pruett‐Jones Stephen 
Published: March 2003

AbstractWe examined fluctuating asymmetry and morphology as they relate to reproductive success, territoriality, and relative survivorship in the dark‐winged damselflyCalopteryx maculata. Fluctuating asymmetry was not correlated with any aspect of morphology in males, but it did predict mating status in males. Mating males showed significantly lower levels of forewing asymmetry than did non‐mating males holding adjacent territories. While fluctuating asymmetry did not relate to survivorship or resource holding ability, body size did. Larger males were able to hold territories longer and lived longer than smaller individuals. We suggest that size is of greater importance in this species with regards to fitness and that fluctuating asymmetry may play a minor role by impacting short‐term mating success.
Phonology and Geographic Song Discrimination in Song Sparrows
Authors: Searcy William A. , Nowicki Stephen , Peters Susan 
Published: March 2003

AbstractWe investigated whether song sparrows discriminate foreign from local songs using specific phonologic markers, a mechanism of geographic discrimination previously described for some other songbirds. Song sparrows from Linesville, Pennsylvania (PA) respond more strongly to local songs than to songs from Millbrook, New York (NY). We identify 61 note categories in PA and NY songs, of which 13 are unique to PA, 17 are unique to NY, and 31 are shared. The most common note category in PA song, ‘buzz BO5’, is present in 89% of PA songs and only in 8% of NY songs; this difference in percentage representation is the largest we found for any note category. Substituting this potential PA marker into NY songs, however, did not make those songs more salient to PA sparrows; instead, PA males tested with territorial playback responded significantly less aggressively to NY/PA hybrid songs than to NY songs. A series of control experiments showed that song sparrows do not detect substitution of PA notes into PA songs or of NY notes into NY songs. The results weigh against the hypothesis that geographic discrimination in song sparrows is accomplished simply by recognition of a small number of phonologic markers.
Responses in the bark of Cupressus sempervirens clones artificially inoculated with Seiridium cardinale under field conditions
Authors: Spanos K. A. , Pirrie A. , Woodward S. , Xenopoulos S. 
Published: March 2003

SummaryBy 70 days after inoculation, resistant and tolerant clones of field‐grown Cupressus sempervirens restricted penetration of the bark by Seiridium cardinale, forming ligno‐suberized boundary zones which included four to six layers of cells with suberized cell walls. This response contrasted with that in susceptible clones, where only two to four layers of suberized cells were formed in discontinuous bands around inoculation sites. Detection of multiple layers of thin suberized boundary zones in susceptible clones indicated repeated penetration of the wound/infection‐induced barrier by S. cardinale during a single growing season. The methods described will be valuable in the development of rapid, early and accurate screening programmes for durable resistance to Seiridium canker in Cupressus species.
Epidemiological role of strains of Cryphonectria parasitica isolated from hosts other than chestnut
Authors: Dallavalle E. , Zambonelli A. 
Published: March 2003

Summary Cryphonectria parasitica is not common in the forests of the Emilia Romagna region of Italy on hosts other than chestnut. Three isolates with morphological cultural characteristics of C. parasitica were collected: two from infected bark of Quercits pubescens (EQ1 and EQ2) and one from Carpinus betulus (EC1). Pathogenicity tests on chestnut and crosses in vitro with strains of C. parasitica of different mating types confirmed that EQ1 and EQ2 are C. parasitica isolates, whereas EC1 seems to belong to a different species. Progeny analysis of crosses with the isolate EQ1 and a strain from chestnut showed the formation of new vegetative compatibility groups. Therefore hosts other than chestnut can contribute to increasing pathogen variability through recombination of the v‐c genes.
Geographical distribution of Erwinia salicis strains, the cause of watermark disease of willows
Authors: Güven K. , Davis J. M. L. , Turner J. G. 
Published: March 2003

SummaryEighty‐six isolates of Erwinia salicis, the causal agent of watermark disease of willow, were obtained from culture collections and collected from various willow plantations in south‐east England. These isolates were characterized by their reaction in a competitive enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, by enzyme electrophoresis, and for lysis by a panel of five bacteriophage. Eighty‐one isolates had similar characteristics and clustered at a level of similarity of at least 60%. Five isolates were found to have less than 20% similarity to the other E. salicis. Antiserum raised against E. salicis (NCPPB 2535) was found to be specific to E. salicis and did not cross‐react with other bacteria tested. No geographical clustering of electrotypes was found: however, Dutch and English isolates could be distinguished by bacteriophage typing. The local distribution of electrotypes collected from diseased trees suggests that the bacterium is spread via the propagating material and that tree to tree spread is rare.
Abiotic and biotic factors and their interactions as causes of oak decline in Central Europe
Authors: THOMAS F. M. , BLANK R. , HARTMANN G. 
Published: March 2003

SummaryIncidences of oak decline have occurred repeatedly during the past three centuries as well as in the most recent decades. On the basis of historical records and dendrochronological measurements, oak decline in Central Europe has been attributed to the single or combined effects of climatic extremes (winter frost, summer drought), defoliating insects, and pathogenic fungi. Starting from a literature review, we discuss the possible roles of various abiotic (air pollution, nitrogen eutrophication, soil chemical stress, climatic extremes, site conditions) and biotic factors (insect defoliation, borer attack, infection by pathogenic fungi, microorganisms) that have been related to oak decline. On the basis of investigations onQuercus petraeaandQuercus roburat three different levels (from experiments with young trees to monitoring on a supraregional scale), we suggest a conceptual model of the interaction of abiotic and biotic factors responsible for the onset of oak decline. This model should be valid for Central European oak stands at more acidic sites (soil pH (H2O) ≤ 4.2; on soils with higher pH, pathogenicPhytophthoraspecies may contribute to oak decline). The combination of severe insect defoliation in at least two consecutive years with climatic extremes is the most significant complex of factors in the incidence of oak decline. Combined with defoliation, summer drought or winter/spring frost or both have to occur within the same year or in consecutive years to trigger major outbreaks of decline. Important additional stress factors are the following: (1) hydromorphic site conditions which, particularly in the case ofQ. robur, render the trees more susceptible to drought stress as a result of an impairment of root growth in the subsoil; and (2), possibly, excess nitrogen which, in combination with drought stress, results in distinct decreases in the foliar concentrations of allelochemicals inQ. robur, thereby probably making the trees more susceptible to insect defoliation. Air pollution, soil chemical stress (including excess manganese), and nitrogen‐induced nutritional imbalance do not seem to be important causal factors in the complex of oak decline. On the basis of the model, the appearance of the most recent oak decline in North‐western Germany can be adequately explained.
The meaning and significance of clinical group supervision and supervised individually planned nursing care as narrated by nurses on a general team psychiatric ward
Authors: Berg Agneta , Hallberg Ingalill Rahm 
Published: March 2003

ABSTRACTBy interviewing 22 psychiatric nurses, the present study aimed to reveal the meaning and significance of systematic clinical group supervision and supervised individually planned nursing care, using latent content analysis. The interpreted meaning was ‘confronting the complexity of ongoing life in daily nursing care’ and the interpreted significance was ‘strengthening the foundation for nursing care’. Reflection on action and confirmation seemed to be core components in the process of clinical supervision. Focusing on the relational and task aspects in nursing care within a group approach may have contributed to the positive experiences of development that occurred.
Negative attitudes towards clients with drug and alcohol related problems: Finding the elusive solution
Authors: Happell Brenda , Taylor Catherine 
Published: March 2003

ABSTRACT The difficulties experienced by nurses in providing care to clients with drug and alcohol related problems within general hospital settings have been clearly identified in the literature. Despite this, the problem continues with little or no evidence of improvement. This paper reports the results of a research project undertaken in a large private hospital in metropolitan Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. The study sought to ascertain whether a difference in attitudes, confidence and perceived knowledge related to the care of clients with drug and alcohol problems would be evident between those nurses who used consultation and liaison services from a specialist drug and alcohol unit and those who did not. A questionnaire was administered to 200 nurses, with a 53% completion rate (n = 106). The results showed very little difference between the groups with the exception of the perceived knowledge category which indicated a statistically significant difference.
A consumer’s perspective of a suicide intervention programme
Authors: Aoun Samar , Johnson Lyn 
Published: March 2003

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to assess the impact of a suicide intervention program from a consumer perspective. Self‐administered questionnaires were distributed to consumers who had been referred to a suicide intervention counsellor in the 2‐year period of the programme in rural southwest Western Australia. Three‐quarters of respondents were positive about their experience with the service, with half of the respondents no longer having thoughts of suicide and only 20% of all respondents reporting having attempted deliberate self‐harm postcounselling. Reported suicidal ideation and attempted self‐harm were much higher in the dissatisfied group. Dissatisfaction of respondents stemmed from the history of their treatment and ‘the hassle created by the many systems for them to access care’. However, the overall outcome of this study is that, from the consumer’s perspective, a high intensity approach to suicide intervention resolved or improved the presenting problem and their ability to deal with it.
Alexithymia: A challenge for mental health nursing practice
Authors: Tacon Anne 
Published: March 2003

ABSTRACT:Alexithymia, under‐recognized and under‐diagnosed, presents a significant challenge to mental health nurses. This article explores the alexithymia construct, and presents the view that better recognition of this trait will allow nursing intervention to be more specific and effective. The mental health nurses’ role is potentially the cornerstone of successful intervention with this group of complex patients, who do poorly when offered conventional, insight‐orientated interventions. Standard psychotherapeutic treatments need to be modified in order to focus on increasing the ability to self‐regulate affect, otherwise treatment may be both counterproductive and potentially damaging.
PREVALENCE AND TREATMENT OF PRESSURE ULCERS IN NORTHERN NEW SOUTH WALES
Authors: Pearson Alan , Francis Karen , Hodgkinson Brent , Curry George 
Published: March 2003

ABSTRACTThis paper reports on a small, cross‐sectional study of 18 hospitals in northern New South Wales. The objectives of this study were to collect baseline data on: (i) the prevalence and type of pressure ulcers in a variety of rural hospitals; and (ii) the range of nursing and medical interventions that are used to prevent/treat pressure ulcers. Using a cross‐sectional design, the study found that pressure ulcer prevalence, which was 6%, was within the range found by previous reports (4–15%). Pressure ulcer prevention and treatment practices were varied, ranging from turning of the patient and occlusive dressings, to such creative methods as exposure to sunshine and airing the wound. This study demonstrates that despite years of attention to pressure sore prevention and treatment, the prevalence of ulcers is still a significant problem in northern New South Wales hospitals.
Selected Demographic, Social and Work Characteristics of the Australian General Medical Practitioner Workforce: Comparing Capital Cities with Regional Areas
Authors: Wilkinson David 
Published: March 2003

ABSTRACTThe aim of the present study was to compare selected characteristics of the Australian general medical practitioner workforce in capital cities and regional areas. Data were derived from the 1996 Census of Population and Housing. Characteristics included age, sex, full‐ or part‐time work, place of birth and change in residential address. Analyses were performed for each state and territory in Australia, the statistical division containing each capital city and all other statistical divisions in each state and territory. Of the 26 359 general medical practitioners identified, 68% were male. More female than male general medical practitioners were aged < 45 years (74 vs 52%, respectively; P < 0.0001). The proportion of general medical practitioners aged < 35 years was higher in capital cities (30%) than regional areas (24%; P < 0.0001). Overall, 32% of the general medical practitioner workforce was female and almost 50% of those aged < 35 years were female. The proportion of female general medical practitioners was higher in capital cities than regional areas, by up to 30%. While 13% of male general medical practitioners reported part‐time work, 42% of females also reported part‐time work and these figures were similar in capital cities and regional areas. Approximately 40% of the Australian general medical practitioner workforce was born outside Australia and while fewer migrants have entered in recent years they were more likely to be living in regional areas than the capitals. The census provides useful medical workforce data. The regional workforce tends to be made up of more males and is older than in capital cities. Monitoring trends in these characteristics could help to evaluate initiatives aimed at addressing regional workforce issues.
Improving access for rural Australians to treatment for anxiety and depression: The University of Melbourne Depression and Anxiety Research AND Treatment Group–Bendigo Health Care Group initiative
Authors: Judd Fiona K. , Jackson Henry , Davis Julian , Cockram Alexandra , Komiti Angela , Allen Nicholas , Murray Greg , Kyrios Michael , Hodgins Gene 
Published: March 2003

Abstract:Rural Australians have limited access to care for mental health problems. We describe a collaboration between the University of Melbourne Departments of Psychology and Psychiatry and a rural Area Mental Health Service to provide a specialist anxiety and depression treatment service in rural Victoria. The clinical service and the education and training approach are described.
IMPACT OF RURAL LIVING ON THE EXPERIENCE OF CHRONIC ILLNESS
Authors: FitzGerald Mary , Pearson Alan , McCutcheon Helen 
Published: March 2003

ABSTRACT:This paper concentrates on the specific impact that living in rural Australia has on the experience of chronic illness, and draws on data collected in a larger phenomenological study. Eighteen rural Australians in New South Wales described their experiences and referred particularly to issues that related to their rural context. A secondary analysis of the data revealed three sub‐themes related to the concept of rural, choice of doctor, travelling and life style. The shortfalls in service identified by these participants deserves further investigation and could become fertile ground for an expanded nursing service.