bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phyllosilicate fabric characterization by Low‐Temperature Anisotropy of Magnetic Susceptibility (LT‐AMS)
Authors: Parés Josep M. , van der Pluijm Ben A.
Published: January 2003

This paper examines the use and applicability of anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility at Low‐Temperature (77°K), called LT‐AMS. Paramagnetic susceptibility increases significantly with low temperature, which permits high precision determination of the anisotropy of paramagnetic susceptibility of a rock from measurements at liquid nitrogen temperature. We describe a new procedure that measures directional susceptibility in an oriented rock specimen while immersed in liquid nitrogen. Our procedure overcomes the problem of temperature heterogeneity within a rock sample while its susceptibility is being measured, offering the opportunity to measure low‐temperature susceptibility in multiple orientations. This non‐destructive method provides a way of characterizing the principal paramagnetic minerals present in a rock, based on temperature‐induced changes of the anisotropy degree. Moreover, the method offers a better‐resolved relationship between anisotropy degree and grain alignment, which is used to quantify rock fabrics.
Field line dependence of magnetospheric electron density
Authors: Denton R. E. , Goldstein J. , Menietti J. D.
Published: January 2003

Observations of the electron density ne based on measurement of the upper hybrid resonance frequency by the Polar spacecraft Plasma Wave Instrument (PWI) are available for March, 1996 to September, 1997, during which time the Polar orbit sampled all MLT values three times. Using this data set, we assume a power law form for the electron density dependence along field lines ne = ne0 (Rmax/R)α, where ne0 is the equatorial electron density and Rmax ≈ LRE is the maximum geocentric radius R to any point on the field line, and model the statistical average of α as αmodel = 8.0 − 3.0 log10ne0 + 0.28 (log10ne0)2 − 0.43(Rmax/RE) for all categories of plasma (plasmasphere and plasmatrough), with an average error of 0.65. The data set on which this result is based is limited to 2.5RE ≤ Rmax ≤ 8.5RE, 2RE ≤ R ≤ Rmax, and 2 ≤ ne0 ≤ 1500 cm−3. There is no remaining dependence of the average α – αmodel on MLT or Kp.
Simultaneous observations of dayside aurora from Heiss Island and Ny Ålesund
Authors: Valladares C. E. , Moen J. , Sandholt P. E. , Denig W. F. , Troshichev O.
Published: January 2003

This paper presents the first simultaneous observation of the cusp aurora using two overlapping imagers displaced in longitude by several hundreds of km. The imagers were located at Ny Ålesund, Norway and Heiss Island, Russia. The uniqueness of the case study presented here consists of the rapid response of the entire extension of the cusp‐related aurora to an unsettled IMF. At the start of the event, the IMF Bz component was equal to −5 nT. It was followed by a 10‐min period of positive Bz excursions (∼+2nT), before returning to a −3 nT value. Initially, when Bz was negative, the cusp aurora was located at 73° MLAT, displayed a Bz south‐type ion dispersion signature, and antisunward convection. When the IMF Bz became positive, but under a dominant Bx (−6 nT), the cusp aurora rapidly retreated poleward, and a long single band was seen extending for over 2000 km brightening from east to west. A few minutes later, still during a period of clock angle less than 120°, two bands of red emission, separated in longitude by ∼1000 km, split from the main auroral trace and move equatorward. The data presented here suggest that during a short period of dominant Bx < 0 and a solar wind phase front tilted toward the northern hemisphere the whole cusp‐related aurora responded rapidly to the new solar wind configuration.
Slow rupture of an aseismic fault in a seismogenic region of Central Italy
Authors: Amoruso Antonella , Crescentini Luca , Morelli Andrea , Scarpa Roberto
Published: January 2003

Slow earthquakes and afterslips prove that the Earth does not have just two response time scales, i.e. that of tectonic loading and that of regular earthquakes. A swarm of slow earthquakes, with time constants of the order of hundreds of seconds, has been detected by a laser interferometer below the Gran Sasso massif (Italy). We analyse and model these observations to identify a very plausible source in a local fault, with no historic seismic behavior. While slow earthquakes occurring in subduction zones, and at the transition between locked and stably sliding segments of the San Andreas fault, are often associated with seismic events, in the case of the Apennines there is no correlation between local seismicity and slow earthquakes. Slow earthquakes, therefore, may also represent a specific failure behavior for a seismically locked fault, adding further complexity to the interpretation of geologic data for seismic hazard estimates.
On the tropospheric measurements of ozone by the Stratospheric Aerosol and Gas Experiment II (SAGE II, version 6.1) in the tropics
Authors: Kar J. , Trepte C. R. , Thomason L. W. , Zawodny J. M. , Cunnold D. M. , Wang H. J.
Published: January 2003

Tropospheric measurements of ozone from SAGE II (version 6.1) in the tropics have been analyzed using 12 years of data (1985–1990, 1994–1999). The seasonally averaged vertical profiles of the ozone mixing ratio in the upper troposphere have been presented for the first time from satellite measurements. These profiles show qualitative similarities with corresponding seasonal mean ozonesonde profiles at northern and southern tropical stations and are about 40–50% less than the sonde values. Despite this systematic offset, the measurements appear to be consistent with a zonal wave one pattern in the upper tropospheric column ozone and with the recently predicted summertime ozone enhancement over the Middle East. These results thus affirm the usefulness of the occultation method in studying tropospheric ozone.
The distribution of auroral power increases and decreases
Authors: Newell Patrick T. , Liou Kan , Skura Joseph P. , Meng Ching‐I.
Published: January 2003

The concept of an auroral substorm intrinsically involves a large increase in auroral power within a relatively short time (a large dP/dt). There is currently no standard for just how large a power increase is needed to identify a substorm. It is unclear whether auroral brightenings and fadings form a continuous distribution, or even whether large decreases in auroral power also occur within a short time (i.e., a negative, or inverse substorm). We used Polar UVI images of global auroral power to investigate these and related questions. Specifically we considered the distribution of dP/dt and (dP/dt)/P, that is, the distribution of absolute and relative changes in auroral power. At small values of ∣dP/dt∣, negative changes are much more frequent than positive changes. In fact, a small decrease in auroral power is the most frequent change between two consecutive Polar UVI images. Hence the power in the auroral oval is, the majority of the time, in slow decline. Large magnitude changes are rare, but turn out to be almost exclusively positive, implying inverse substorms do not exist. Beyond a 0.2%/s rate of change in auroral power (which amounts to a 37% change over the typical Polar UVI image spacing of 184 s), only positive events occur, within the measurable noise levels. However no clear boundary divides substorms from other types of auroral brightenings: rather the spectrum of large positive changes in auroral power is continuous. These results are relatively insensitive to the exact value of Δt (from 36 s to 6 min), and to whether the premidnight or postmidnight auroral oval is considered.
Simulations of current sheet thinning and reconnection
Authors: Yin Lin , Winske Dan
Published: January 2003

Thin current sheet structures with a thickness comparable to the ion gyro‐radius have been inferred from spacecraft observations during substorms. This study presents two‐dimensional hybrid and Hall‐MHD simulations of current sheet thinning and reconnection that include electron pressure tensor effects. Results demonstrate that reconnection occurs due to the electron pressure tensor effects as the sheet is compressed by the application of an out‐of‐plane electric field on the lobe boundaries. Results from hybrid and Hall‐MHD calculations for the current sheet thinning process are compared. During the thinning period, the out‐of‐plane ion velocity from the hybrid simulation shows an enhancement at the edge of the sheet and a reduction at the sheet center. As reconnection proceeds, it becomes peaked along the Earth‐tail direction away from the X point. In contrast, the out‐of‐plane ion velocity from the Hall‐MHD simulation remains peaked at the center of the simulation. The ion off‐diagonal pressure tensor effects are considered as the cause of the differing particle‐ion and fluid‐ion dynamics. The dynamics of current sheet thinning and reconnection is also modeled using a new integrated approach in which Hall‐MHD calculations are embedded inside an MHD simulation. It is shown that the embedded simulation can provide smooth transitions of plasma and field quantities between the two regions, and the small‐scale physics in the compressed current sheet and in the near‐X‐point region are well represented.
Seasonal and interannual geocenter motion from SLR and DORIS measurements: Comparison with surface loading data
Authors: Crétaux Jean‐François , Soudarin Laurent , Davidson Fraser J. M. , Gennero Marie‐Claude , Bergé‐Nguyen Muriel , Cazenave Anny
Published: January 2003

We present observed seasonal and interannual geocenter motion over 1993–1999 based on laser data on the LAGEOS‐1, LAGEOS‐2, and Topex/Poseidon (T/P) satellites as well as Doppler orbitography and radiopositioning integrated by satellite (DORIS) data from T/P. The amplitude and the phase of the space geodesy‐derived seasonal cycles for each coordinate are further compared to the estimates based on surface mass redistribution on the Earth surface derived from various climatic data sources: surface pressure, soil moisture, snow depth, and ocean mass variations. Geodesy and climatic data present good agreement in terms of seasonal, still not for interannual, geocenter motion.
Parent and Adolescent Adjustment to Pediatric Cancer: Associations with Coping, Social Support, and Family Function
Authors: Trask Peter C. , Paterson Amber G. , Trask Christine L. , Bares Cristina B. , Birt JoAnn , Maan Cathy
Published: February 2003

This article presents preliminary results investigating the relationship between parental and adolescent adjustment and coping and their relationship to social support and family functioning in a sample of adolescents (ages 11-18) with cancer and one of their parents. Parents and adolescents from two pediatric oncology clinics completed measures of distress, coping, social support, and family cohesion/adaptability. Low levels of distress were reported by both children and their parents with positive correlations noted between parent and child adjustment. Adolescents reported that their parents and a close friend were the greatest sources of social support and described their families as having a high degree of cohesion and adaptability. Both adolescents and parents used more adaptive than maladaptive coping strategies, although distress was asso ciated with reduced use of adaptive coping. Adolescents are able to adapt to cancer in the context of strong family and social supports. In addition, there is a relationship between parental and adolescents adjustment, and between greater use of adaptive coping styles and lower distress
Use of An Isolated Intestinal Circuit to Evaluate the Effect of Ischemia and Reperfusion on Mucosal Permeability of the Equine Jejunum
Authors: Vatistas Nicholas J. , Nieto Jorge E. , van Hoogmoed Linda , Gardner Ian , Snyder Jack R.
Published: January 2003

Objective—To evaluate the efficacy of an isolated perfusion circuit and the effect of ischemia‐reperfusion on mucosal permeability of the jejunum.

Study Design—In vitro study of intestinal mucosal permeability.

Animals—Twelve healthy adult horses.

Methods—A control segment of jejunum was placed in an isolated perfusion circuit for 240 minutes and mucosal permeability was measured. After detecting no deleterious effects of the isolated system on the control intestine, low flow ischemia was created in experimental segments for 20, 40, 60 and 90 minutes followed by 60 minutes of reperfusion and mucosal permeability was evaluated. At the completion of the studies, histologic evaluation was used to determine mucosal grades, surface area, and volume.

Results—Control tissue was maintained in the isolated circuit for 240 minutes without effect on mucosal grade, surface area, or volume relative to intact tissue. After ischemia‐reperfusion, mucosal grade increased, and volume and surface area decreased progressively with longer periods of ischemia. Mucosal clearance of albumin remained constant during 240 minutes of perfusion in control tissue and was elevated after ischemia‐reperfusion.

Conclusions—No deleterious changes were noted in jejunum perfused with this isolated circuit, whereas alterations in mucosal permeability were present after ischemia‐reperfusion.

Clinical Relevance—The isolated perfusion circuit successfully maintained an isolated segment of jejunum within physiologic limits, and can be used to evaluate the effects of injury and the efficacy of pharmaceuticals to attenuate these changes.
The Effect of Two Modifications of Unilateral Arytenoid Lateralization on Rima Glottidis Area in Dogs
Authors: Demetriou Jackie L. , Kirby Barbara M.
Published: January 2003

Objectives— To evaluate the clinical outcome and percentage increase in rima glottidis area achieved using a combined technique of cricoarytenoid and thyroarytenoid cartilage lateralization compared with cricoarytenoid cartilage lateralization alone in live anesthetized dogs clinically affected with bilateral laryngeal paralysis.

Study Design— Randomized prospective clinical study.

Animals— Twenty dogs with bilateral laryngeal paralysis.

Methods— Bilateral laryngeal paralysis was diagnosed by direct laryngoscopy. Each dog was allocated randomly to 1 of 2 surgical groups: CAL (cricoarytenoid lateralization) and CTAL (cricoarytenoid and thyroarytenoid lateralization). Photographs were taken of each larynx before and after surgery, the images were digitized, and the preoperative and postoperative areas of each rima glottidis were measured. The percentage increase in rima glottidis area produced by each of the arytenoid lateralization procedures was compared. Follow‐up was obtained by telephone survey of owners and referring veterinarians.

Results— There was no significant difference in mean (± SD) percentage increase in rima glottidis area for the CAL group (241.5 ± 42.9%) or the CTAL group (236.4 ± 44.5%). Clinical follow‐up (median, 18 months postoperatively) indicated 60% of the dogs were still alive and only 1 dog had died as a result of complications related to surgery.

Conclusions— CTAL for the treatment of canine laryngeal paralysis does not significantly increase rima glottidis area compared with CAL alone. The mean percentage increase in rima glottidis area obtained with both procedures was comparable to previously reported mean increases with CAL in live anesthetized dogs. Both procedures resulted in good long‐term clinical outcome.

Clinical Relevance— CTAL is as effective as CAL in providing an increased rima glottidis for the treatment of bilateral laryngeal paralysis in dogs.
Lumbosacral Stenosis in 29 Military Working Dogs: Epidemiologic Findings and Outcome After Surgical Intervention (1990–1999)
Authors: Linn Lorraine L. , Bartels Kenneth E. , Rochat Mark C. , Payton Mark E. , Moore George E.
Published: January 2003

Objective—To study the outcome of military working dogs (MWDs) diagnosed with degenerative lumbosacral stenosis (DLS) after surgical intervention and to determine what prognostic indicators affected outcome.

Study Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—Twenty‐nine MWDs with DLS.

Methods—The medical records of dogs diagnosed and surgically treated for DLS at the Department of Defense Military Working Dog Veterinary Service Hospital were reviewed. Retrieved data were signalment, clinical signs, survey radiograph results, and surgical findings.

Results—Breed and sex were not found to have prognostic significance. Increasing age at surgery correlated with a poor surgical outcome. Twelve dogs (41%) returned to normal function, 11 (38%) improved, and 6 (20%) never returned to active duty. The average age at surgery was 74 months, 93 months, and 112 months for normal, improved, and dogs not returning to duty, respectively. Significant clinical findings associated with a poor prognosis were related to increasing neurologic severity. The only significant radiographic finding indicating a poor prognosis was foraminal narrowing. Surgical findings with negative prognostic significance were hypertrophic articular facets and interarcuate ligament. Recurrence rates were 16.7% and 54.5% for normal and improved dogs, respectively.

Conclusions—MWDs with DLS have a good prognosis with surgical decompression if they are young dogs with mild clinical signs at the time of diagnosis. As age and severity of clinical signs increase, the prognosis for successful outcome decreases. Recurrence may be seen in some dogs.

Clinical Relevance—Information provided by this study should help military veterinarians determine the prognosis for working dogs with DLS after surgical treatment.
The Effects of Femoral Stem and Neck Length on Cement Strains in a Canine Total Hip Replacement Model
Authors: Dassler Christopher L. , Schulz Kurt S. , Kass Philip , Stover Susan M.
Published: January 2003

Objective—To determine the effects of femoral prosthesis stem length and head size on cement strains in a canine hip replacement system.

Study Design—An in vitro experimental model.

Sample Population—(1) Three standard and 3 1‐cm shortened femoral implants with +3 femoral heads. (2) Two standard implants with +0, +3, and +6 femoral heads.

Methods—Femoral stems were embedded in polymethylmethacrylate cement. A uniaxial proximodistal‐oriented strain gauge was applied to the cement on the medial and lateral aspects of the construct 1.5 cm, 6.0 cm and 7.0 cm distal to the collar. Each construct with a +3 femoral head was mounted in a materials testing system. An axial compressive load (0–200 N) was applied to the femoral head and cement strains were recorded. Additionally, 2 standard length constructs were also tested with +0 and +6 femoral heads. The effects of stem length and neck length on cement strains were assessed with analysis of variance.

Results—Strains increased at all locations with increasing loads for all constructs. Shorter implants had higher strains by 152% and 171%, lateral (P= .003) and medial (P= .0025) to the stem tip. No significant strain differences were noted, at any strain gauge location, between different neck lengths (Pvalues ranged from .20 to .67).

Conclusions—Although a shorter implant stem has a potential to improve implant fit, it led to significantly higher cement strains that may increase the risk for aseptic loosening. Changes in femoral neck length did not significantly affect cement strains under the conditions tested.

Clinical Relevance—Shortening of the femoral stem currently cannot be recommended in canine total hip replacement. The existing use of variable neck lengths likely does not increase the risk of failure of the femoral stem.
Reduction and Stabilization of Hip Luxation by the Transposition of the Ligamentum Sacrotuberale in Dogs: An in Vivo Study
Authors: Özaydin İsa , Kiliç Engin , Baran Vedat , Demirkan İbrahim , Kamiloglu Alkan , Vural Sevil
Published: January 2003

Objectives— To evaluate the effectiveness of transposition of the sacrotuberous ligament (LST) for the treatment of coxofemoral luxation in the dog.

Study Design— In vivo experimental study.

Sample Population— Ten mixed‐breed dogs (weighing 12 to 26 kg).

Methods— After general anesthesia, the LST was exposed and released from the sacrum with a sacral bone fragment. Coxofemoral luxation was created by capsulotomy and transection of the ligament of the head of the femur. Suture was passed through 2 small holes in the bone fragment to guide transposition of the LST through a tunnel drilled through the acetabulum and femoral head and neck. The suture material was pulled tight and an interference screw was placed into the femoral tunnel to lock the sacral bone fragment and LST securely in the tunnel. Butorphanol was administered for pain relief and dogs were allowed unrestricted activity. Coxofemoral radiographs were obtained at 15‐day intervals. Two dogs were euthanatized for macroscopic and histopathologic examinations at 3 months.

Results— Release of the sacral bone was moderately difficult. The transposed ligament and bone fragment were of an appropriate length and were easily and securely fixed by a interference screw method. Visible severe lameness, during the first 7 to 10 days improved to mild lameness within 10 to 21 days. Gait was subjectively normal after 5 weeks. No radiographic abnormalities were observed at any time point. Grossly, the LST was intact and apparently viable and functional. On histopathology, the space in the bone tunnel was filled with new tissue and a hyaline‐like layer surrounded the LST. The sacral bone fragment attached to the LST was united with the femoral bone.

Conclusions— Transposition of the LST reduced and stabilized experimentally induced coxofemoral luxation in 10 dogs. Survival of the LST up to 3 months and its adaptation to transposition suggest that this surgical technique could be considered as a permanent treatment option for hip luxations. Transposition and fixation of the LST was easy, but releasing the sacral edge of the LST was difficult because of its deep location and division of the origin into 2 branches in some dogs.

Clinical Relevance— Results of this experimental study suggest that the technique may be satisfactorily used in dogs with coxofemoral luxation.
Treatment of Biologically Inactive Nonunions by a Limited En Bloc Ostectomy and Compression Plate Fixation: A Review of 17 Cases
Authors: Blaeser Lauren L. , Gallagher Jack G. , Boudrieau Randy J.
Published: January 2003

Objective—To describe a surgical technique for treatment of biologically inactive nonunions using en bloc ostectomy and compression plate fixation and clinical outcome in 17 dogs.

Study Design—Retrospective clinical study.

Sample Population—Seventeen dogs.

Methods—A transverse ostectomy was performed adjacent and parallel to the nonunion to eliminate nonviable tissue and provide a new, viable fracture surface with a minimum circumferential contact area of 315°. With most of the bony column anatomically reconstructed, compression plate fixation was used to stabilize the fracture. Autogenous cancellous bone grafting was used if a fracture gap was present (<45° of missing circumferential bone contact). Resection of bone was limited so that bone shortening was less than 20% of the overall bone length. Clinical and radiographic follow‐up evaluations were obtained whenever possible.

Results—Complete circumferential bone contact and compression plate fixation was achieved after ostectomy in 12 dogs; cancellous bone graft was used in 5 dogs. En bloc ostectomy sites were radiographically healed in a median time of 2.5 months after surgery in 11 dogs that returned for complete in‐hospital follow‐up, and progressive healing was observed in 3 other dogs, where in‐hospital follow‐up was obtained up to 2 months after surgery. These dogs had a median follow‐up time of 2 months, at which time 6 dogs had no lameness, 4 had minimal lameness, and one had moderate lameness. No complications occurred, and no implants were removed.

Conclusions—En bloc ostectomy with compression plate fixation was considered successful for the treatment of biologically inactive nonunions. A good to excellent prognosis can be expected with minimal complications.

Clinical Relevance—Use of an en bloc ostectomy technique for the treatment of biologically inactive nonunions permits easy resection of nonviable tissue. Subsequent fracture stabilization with compression plate fixation resulted in rapid bone healing without complications.
Book reviews
Authors: Tenopir Carol , Watkinson Anthony , Membrey Jill , Powell Andrea
Published: January 2003

Authors and Electronic Publishing, a report produced by Alma Swan and Sheridan Brown, Key Perspectives Ltd Association of Learned and Professional Society Publishers (ALPSP) 2002. Members, £50 (US$100); Non‐members £100 (US$200). ISBN 090734123‐3

My Life in Science by Sydney Brenner BioMed Central Ltd, 2001; rev. edn including personal photos, 2002. Pp. 199. Paper, £14.99 recommended retail price; £10.49 for BioMed Central users (www.biomedcentral.com/info/brenner.asp). ISBN: 0‐9540278‐0‐9

Understanding Copyright… in a Week by Graham P. Cornish Institute of Management, published by Hodder & Stoughton, 2000. £6.99. ISBN 0‐340‐78241‐2

Towards Consensus on the Electronic Use of Publications in Libraries – Strategy Issues and Recommendations by Thomas Dreier Gottinger Bibliotheksschriften, 2001. Pp. 120. Paperback. Available at: http://gdz.sub.uni‐goettingen.de/tecup/towacons.pdf. ISBN 3‐930457‐16‐4. ISSN: 0943‐951X
In defense of caution
Authors: Ewing John H.
Published: January 2003

Some scholars have urged dramatically new models for scholarly publishing, often condemning learned societies for their failure to embrace those models. Why are societies cautious? Because they have experience. They recognize that many of the enthusiastic efforts to provide open access to all scholarly literature may ultimately have the opposite effect.
Internet Archaeology and the myth of free publication
Authors: Richards Julian D.
Published: January 2003

In December 2001 the former eLib e‐journal Internet Archaeology began to charge individual subscriptions, provoking strong reactions on several journal and e‐print discussion lists. Here the Director, Julian Richards, provides the background to that decision and argues that there is no such thing as a free publication.
Reading behaviour and electronic journals
Authors: Tenopir Carol , King Donald W.
Published: January 2003

Studies from 1977 through 2001 demonstrate that scientists continue to read widely from scholarly journals. Reading of scholarly articles has increased to approximately 120–130 articles per person per year, with engineers reading fewer journal articles on the average and medical faculty reading more. A growing proportion of these readings come from e‐prints and other separate copies. Most scientists in a discipline now use electronic journals at least part of the time, with considerable variations among disciplines. Evidence suggests that scientists are reading from a broader range of journals than in the past, influenced by timely electronic publishing and by growth in bibliographic searching and interpersonal communication as means of identifying and locating articles. Although the scholarly journals system has changed dramatically in the past few decades, it is evident that the value scientists place on the information found in scholarly journal articles, whether electronic or print, remains high.
Two societies show how to profit by providing free access
Authors: Walker Thomas J.
Published: January 2003

Authors and their sponsors are beginning to realize that immediate free Web access (IFWA) provides the most convenient access to journal articles, thereby maximizing their impact. Furthermore, IFWA is the most economical mode of access, and, no matter what the mode, authors and their sponsors pay nearly all the costs of access. Because those who pay for access to journal articles consider IFWA both best and cheapest, IFWA will soon replace other modes of access. Journal publishers who wish to stay in business should start offering their authors IFWA at a fair price. Two entomological societies have done so and profited.
Promoting literacy in a digital age: approaches to training for information literacy
Authors: Bawden David , Robinson Lyn
Published: January 2003

Information literacy, and other similar ‘literacies’, such as digital literacy, mediacy, and informacy, are concepts relating to knowledge, skills, and attitudes, at various levels, in dealing with information in varied formats and diverse situations. The breadth of scope of these concepts implies that training must be equally broad, varied, and context‐sensitive. This is exemplified by two case studies of information and digital literacy training. The first is a training programme in information literacy for the scientific staff of a multinational pharmaceutical research organization. The second is a summer school dealing with digital literacy, primarily for information professionals from countries of Central and Eastern Europe, and the former Soviet Union.
Introducing a new journals subscription system: the agony and the ecstasy
Authors: Kenneway Melinda , Sutherland Pam , Williamson Samuel C.
Published: January 2003

The subscription system sits at the heart of the journals business. Selecting a subscription management system able to cope with modern purchasing methods and customer relations management is a complex matter. Three of the key people involved in this process at Oxford University Press describe problems and process from their own perspectives in marketing, systems development and software development.
Book reviews
Authors: Watkinson Anthony , Lee J.D. , Watkinson Anthony , Paulus Kurt
Published: January 2003

Gaining Independence: A Manual for Planning the Launch of a Nonprofit Electronic Publishing Venture, version 1.0 by Howard Goldstein Published by SPARC, available online: http://www.arl.org/sparc/GI

Indexers and Indexing in Fact and Fiction edited by Hazel K. Bell The British Library, London, 2001. Pp. 160. Paper, £16. ISBN 0‐7123‐4729‐1

Preservation Management of Digital Materials: A Handbook by Maggie Jones and Neil Beagrie The British Library, Nov. 2001. Pp. 145. Spiral bound, £15.00. ISBN 0 7123 0886 5. Copies can be ordered from Turpin Distribution Services Ltd.

Publishing Law, 2nd edn by Hugh Jones and Christopher Benson Routledge, 2002. Cased, £65.00, ISBN 0‐415‐26153‐8; paper, £24.99, ISBN 0‐415‐26154‐6

How to Survive Peer Review by Elizabeth Wager, Fiona Godlee and Tom Jefferson London: BMJ Books, 2002. Pp. v + 62. £12.95. ISBN 0‐7279‐1686‐6
An empirical study of POM teaching in Spanish universities (I)
Authors: Machuca José A.D. , Alfalla Luque Rafaela
Published: January 2003

Production and operations management (POM) is a key factor for the competitiveness of any business and university training in POM is a critical element in the preparation of future managers. The course contents, the teaching staff and the teaching methodology used are three of the most important aspects of successful training. These aspects have been explored in an empirical study of the current status of the teaching of POM in Spanish universities, based on a survey of the total population of instructors of this discipline. This is the first study to reveal an in‐depth and comprehensive picture of this topic in a country of the European Union, and it is hoped that this will encourage analogous studies of other countries in Europe and beyond. In the present paper, we shall discuss the more relevant results in respect of the content of POM programs being taught; we illustrate the type of instruction available in Spanish universities, indicate the differences between the main academic degrees in which the discipline figures, and undertake a constructive critical analysis. The teaching staff and methodologies used are analyzed in another article in this journal.
A new approach to the valuation of production investments with environmental effects
Authors: García González Santiago , Gessa Perera Ana , Aguado Correa Francisco
Published: January 2003

Firms are increasingly aware of environmental degradation and this has led many of them to include “quality, safety and protecting the environment” among their competitive priorities. This also involves large capital investments aimed at reducing the environmental impact of their manufacturing activities. This study suggests a method for estimating the return of manufacturing investments with environmental effects (costs and benefits). It considers the value of the asset being preserved as a consequence of a firm’s social responsibility. The practical case studied is Huelva’s industrial area.
Rethinking paradigms of service
Authors: Voss Christopher A.
Published: January 2003

It is now possible to deliver service in a virtual environment with little or no human interaction. This environment offers the opportunity of new ways of delivering service. This paper examines some of the existing theories of service quality and service management in the context of new Web‐based environment. It draws on field research involving empirical measurement of service levels. Two existing theories are re‐examined, the concept that automation leads to mediation between the customer and the service organisation – the “buffered core”, and the dimensions of service quality. In both cases the capabilities of the Web, and the removal of direct human interaction give cause for rethinking. The research leads to the view that the Web, rather than providing mediation, can provide direction connection between the customer and the service organisation. In addition, the accepted dimensions of customer service do not always fit the actual dimensions for service on the Web. Finally, this paper proposes an empirically‐based model that is based on the proposition that developing service in a virtual environment is sequence dependent. This “sand cone” model is illustrated with an example from the research.
Electronic portfolios
Authors: Corwin Terry
Published: January 2003

A member of the North Dakota University System, Valley City State University (VCSU) offers baccalaureate degrees in education, business and the liberal arts to a student population of 1,100. In 1995, VCSU adopted an electronic portfolio initiative and in 1996 became the second four‐year laptop institution in the USA, providing laptop computers to all of its faculty and students. This article describes VSCU’s grant‐funded best technology practices project, which enables students to complete electronic portfolios on CD‐ROM, which is proving to be an effective strategy for improving teaching and learning.
Identification of Arterial Wall Dynamics in Conscious Dogs
Authors: Gamero Lucas G. , Armentano Ricardo L. , Barra Juan G. , Simon Alain , Levenson Jaime
Published: February 2003

Viscoelastic properties determine the dynamic behaviour of the arterial wall under pulsatile pressure and flow, suggesting time‐ or frequency‐dependent responses to changes in wall stress and strain. The objectives of the present study were: (i) to develop a simplified model to derive simultaneously the elastic, viscous and inertial wall moduli; (ii) to assess Young's modulus as a function of frequency, in conscious, chronically instrumented dogs. Parametric discrete time models were used to characterise the dynamics of the arterial system based on thoracic aortic pressure (microtransducer) and diameter (sonomicrometry) measurements in control steady state and during activation of smooth muscle with the α‐adrenoceptor agonist phenylephrine (5 μg kg−1 min−1, I.V.), in eight conscious dogs. The linear autoregressive model and a physically motivated non‐linear model were fitted to the input‐output (stress‐strain) relationship. The aortic buffering function (complex Young's modulus) was obtained in vivo from the identified linear model. Elastic, viscous and inertial moduli were significantly increased from control state ((44.5 ± 7.7) × 104 Pa; (12.3 ± 4.7) × 104 Pa s; (0.048 ± 0.028) × 104 Pa s2) to active state ((85.3 ± 29.5) × 104 Pa, P < 0.001; (22.4 ± 8.3) × 104 Pa s, P < 0.05; (0.148 ± 0.060) × 104 Pa s2, P < 0.05). These moduli, obtained using the linear model, did not present significant differences compared with those derived using the non‐linear model. In control conditions, the magnitude of the normalised complex Young's modulus was found to be similar to that reported in previous animal studies ranging from 1 to 10 Hz. During vascular smooth muscle activation, this modulus was found to be increased with regard to control conditions (P < 0.01) in the frequency range used in this study. The frequency‐dependent Young's modulus of the aortic wall was obtained for the first time in conscious, unsedated dogs. The parametric modelling approach allows us to verify that vascular smooth muscle activation increases the elastic, viscous and inertial moduli with the advantage of being able to track their time evolution. Furthermore, under activation, the aortic wall remains stiff in the physiological frequency range, suggesting the impairment of the arterial buffering function.
Renal Response to Arginine Vasopressin During the Oestrous Cycle in the Rat: Comparison of Glucose and Saline Infusion Using Physiological Doses of Vasopressin
Authors: Hartley David E. , Forsling Mary L.
Published: February 2003

The renal response to arginine vasopressin in the rat has been shown to depend on reproductive status. However there is no consensus as to when the kidney is most responsive. The varying results could depend on the protocol and the dose of hormone used. A study has been performed, with physiological doses of vasopressin, comparing the responses during infusion of hypotonic saline and glucose. After an equilibration period of 150 min, conscious rats were infused on each of the four days of the oestrous cycle with either isotonic saline (0.077 M) or 0.14 M glucose for a control period of 45 min. Vasopressin was then infused at 10‐40 fmol min−1 for 1 h, followed by a recovery period of 90 min. Timed urine samples were collected for determination of volume, sodium concentration and osmolality. During the control period urine flow was greatest at oestrus and dioestrus day 2 and sodium excretion on dioestrus day 2 irrespective of the infusate. Vasopressin concentrations achieved lay within the physiological range and no difference was observed between the different days for a given dose. Infusion of vasopressin in both saline and glucose produced a dose‐dependent antidiuresis, the greatest responses being seen of pro‐oestrus and dioestrus day 2. It was only with the highest rate of infusion that a significant increase in sodium excretion was seen on each day of the cycle and the greatest responses were seen on pro‐oestrus and dioestrus day 1 for both infusates. Thus the kidney shows the greatest response to physiological doses of vasopressin at pro‐oestrus and dioestrus day 1 irrespective of the infusate employed.
Effect of Extracellular Magnesium on Nerve‐Mediated and Acetylcholine‐Evoked in vitro Amylase Release in Rat Parotid Gland Tissue
Authors: Yago M. D. , Mata A. D. , Mañas M. , Singh J.
Published: February 2003

In this study the effects of changes in extracellular magnesium ([Mg2+]o) and calcium ([Ca2+]o) concentrations on basal and on nerve‐mediated and acetylcholine (ACh)‐evoked in vitro amylase release and calcium mobilization were investigated in rat parotid gland tissue. In the presence of a normal (2.56 mM) [Ca2+]o, both zero (0 mM) and an elevated (10 mM) [Mg2+]o significantly attenuated basal and ACh‐evoked amylase release compared to the response obtained in normal (1.1 mM) [Mg2+]o. During electrical field stimulation (EFS) of parotid tissues, only elevated [Mg2+]o reduced amylase release. In a Ca2+‐free medium, both basal and ACh‐evoked amylase output were markedly reduced compared to the responses obtained under similar conditions in normal [Ca2+]o. Again, the ACh‐induced amylase release in a Ca2+‐free solution was larger in normal [Mg2+]o than when the [Mg2+]o was either zero or was elevated to 10 mM. Perturbation of [Mg2+]o had no significant effect on basal intracellular free calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) in parotid acinar cells loaded with the fluorescent Ca2+ indicator fura‐2. Both zero Mg2+ and an elevated [Mg2+]o significantly reduced the ACh‐induced rise in the peak and the plateau phase of the Ca2+ transient that was seen in normal [Mg2+]o. In parotid acinar cells loaded with the fluorescent Mg2+ indicator magfura‐2, ACh elicited a gradual decrease in intracellular free Mg2+ concentration ([Mg2+]i) to below the basal level. The results indicate that both hypo‐ and hypermagnesaemia may reduce both basal and ACh‐evoked amylase secretion from the salivary gland. As far as the ACh‐evoked response is concerned, the effect may be exerted by a decrease in cellular Ca2+ transport.
The Cardiovascular and Renal Effects of Acute and Chronic Inhibition of Nitric Oxide Production in Fetal Sheep
Authors: Yu Ze‐Yan , Lumbers Eugenie R. , Simonetta Giuseppe
Published: February 2003

The acute and long‐term effects of blockade of nitric oxide (NO) production were studied in six chronically catheterised fetal sheep aged from 116 and 118 days; six untreated fetal sheep received injections of saline. Injection of 10 mg (kg maternal body wt)−1 of the nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitor Nω‐nitro‐L‐arginine (NOLA) to the fetus, caused an immediate rise in fetal mean arterial pressure (MAP, P < 0.005) and a reflex fall in fetal heart rate (FHR, P < 0.001). Plasma renin concentration (PRC) fell from 8.4 ± 3.3 to 1.5 ± 0.3 ng ml−1 h−1 (P < 0.001) and was dependent on MAP (P= 0.001). Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) tended to increase, but renal blood flow (RBF) velocity decreased (P < 0.001). Thus filtration fraction (FF) increased (P < 0.025). Urine flow and sodium excretion increased (P < 0.001 for both). Fractional sodium reabsorption decreased (P < 0.05). In fetuses treated with NOLA, arterial pressure was found to affect glomerular haemodynamics and renal tubular handling of sodium. No such relationships were observed in untreated fetuses. The vascular responses to acetylcholine tended to be less (P= 0.07) and the responses to noradrenaline were enhanced in NOLA‐treated fetuses. There were no changes in untreated fetuses. Fetuses were then injected twice daily with either 5 mg kg−1 NOLA or saline for the next 2 days. On the 4th day, injection of 10 mg kg−1 NOLA did not have any effects on MAP, FHR or renal function. However, the pressor responses to angiotensin II (Ang II) were enhanced (P < 0.005), as was the response to noradrenaline but to a lesser extent. It is concluded that endothelial production of NO maintains normal fetal blood pressure, renal vascular resistance and fetal renal function. When NO production was blocked by repeated injections of NOLA, other vasodilator pathways took over the maintenance of cardiovascular and renal vascular tone. However, alterations in both cardiovascular and renal function were still present. That is, there was increased pressor sensitivity to exogenous Ang II and unmasking of effects of arterial pressure on glomerular and tubular function.
Distinct Central Representations of Inescapable and Escapable Pain: Observations and Speculation
Authors: Keay Kevin A. , Bandler Richard
Published: February 2003

It is well established clinically that the affective response to pain of deep origin (muscles, joints and viscera) is distinct from that evoked by cutaneous pain. Cutaneous pain triggers a fight‐flight reaction (active emotional coping), whereas deep pain evokes a reaction of quiescence, decreased vigilance and vasodepression (passive emotional coping). These observations led to suggestions of distinct central representations for deep versus cutaneous pain. Indeed, studies using immediate early gene (c‐fos) expression revealed selective activation of ventrolateral versus lateral columns of the midbrain periaqueductal grey region (PAG) by persistent pain of deep origin versus intermittent cutaneous pain. Ventrolateral versus lateral PAG activation had been found earlier to evoke passive versus active emotional coping. However, not all cutaneous pain triggers active coping. Persistent cutaneous pain (e.g. burns) instead, usually evokes passive coping. This raised the question of whether the behavioural significance of pain (i.e. its escapability versus inescapability), rather than its tissue origin, is represented in supraspinal regions such as the PAG. Subsequent study revealed that a persistent (inescapable) noxious cutaneous manipulation (clip of the neck) evoked both selective ventrolateral PAG Fos expression and passive emotional coping. Such data suggest that pain representation in the PAG reflects a quality akin to behavioural significance, rather than tissue origin. In contrast, in the spinal cord predominantly superficial dorsal horn Fos expression was seen after either persistent or intermittent noxious cutaneous stimuli, leaving the question of the pathway(s) via which persistent (inescapable) cutaneous pain activates the vlPAG unanswered. One experimental approach to this question is suggested.
Glucose Infusion Attenuates Muscle Fatigue in Rat Plantaris Muscle During Prolonged Indirect Stimulation in Situ
Authors: Karelis Antony D. , Péronnet François , Gardiner Phillip F.
Published: February 2003

Carbohydrate ingestion increases both endurance time to exhaustion during prolonged exercise, and the ability to perform resistance exercise. The mechanism(s)underlying the increased performance following glucose ingestion remain(s) unclear. The purpose of the present study was to verify the hypothesis that glucose infusion could attenuate peripheral muscle fatigue in the anaesthetized rat during prolonged indirect electrical stimulation in situ. For this purpose the plantaris muscle was electrically stimulated (50 Hz for 200 ms every 2.7 s; 5 V; pulse width, 0.05 ms) in situ through the sciatic nerve to perform concentric contractions for 60 min while infusing intravenously either saline alone (7.25 ml kg−1 h−1), or saline and glucose (1 g kg−1 h−1: plasma glucose 11 ± 1.1, vs. 4.9 ± 0.2 mM with infusion of saline) (8 rats per group). Glucose infusion attenuated the reduction in submaximal peak dynamic force (55% decrease vs. 70% decrease in rats infused with saline alone, P < 0.05). In a third group of rats (n = 8), infusion of glucose 30 min after the start of stimulation partially restored submaximal peak dynamic force (P < 0.05). Maximum dynamic and isometric forces at the end of the period of stimulation were also higher (P < 0.05) in rats infused with glucose (4.0 ± 0.2 and 4.3 ± 0.2 N, respectively) than saline alone (3.0 ± 0.2 and 3.5 ± 0.2 N, respectively). The beneficial effect of glucose infusion on peripheral muscle force during prolonged stimulation was not associated with a reduction in muscle glycogen utilisation, nor with a reduction of fatigue at the neuromuscular junction, as assessed through maximal direct muscle stimulation (200 Hz for 200 ms; 150 V; pulse width, 0.05 ms). However, changes in M‐wave peak‐to‐peak amplitude, duration and total area suggest that glucose infusion, and/or the associated increase in plasma insulin concentration, may prevent the deterioration of electrical properties of the muscle fibre membrane.