bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic Origin and Success of Reintroduced White Storks
Authors: OLSSON OLA
Published: August 2007

Abstract: After their local extinction in 1954, White Storks (Ciconia ciconia) were reintroduced to Sweden in 1989. The founder population for the reintroduced birds originated in North Africa, rather than from the closest breeding population in northeastern Europe (defined here as native). A number of wild storks have immigrated spontaneously, and a few others of native origin have been acquired for captive breeding. Over the 17 years, 103 of the 241 breeding events by free storks have been by pairs in which at least one parent had some native ancestry. The pedigree for all birds is known, and from this I calculated the proportion of native ancestry for each individual, the inbreeding coefficient, and the kinship between parents. I analyzed how these genetic factors, together with rainfall during breeding, supplementary feeding, and management of the storks (whether parents were born or raised in captivity or free), affected brood size. I also analyzed whether storks with native ancestry had a higher likelihood of migrating. Together with weather and supplementary feeding during the breeding period, genetic origin strongly affected breeding performance. Pairs with entirely native ancestry had on average twice as many chicks as those of entirely African ancestry. Inbreeding and kinship between parents, or management of the parents, did not influence breeding performance significantly. Reproductive success of the African storks in Sweden is so low that they cannot form a sustainable population. In addition, birds with some native ancestry were more likely to migrate from Sweden than those with entirely African ancestry. The difference in performance between native and African storks may be due either to local adaptations or to the bottleneck that the African founding population went through during captive breeding. Overall, my results imply that use of a correct source population for reintroduction programs may be of greater consequence for the program's success than other genetic considerations or management of individuals.
Long‐Term Effects of Group‐Selection Timber Harvesting on Abundance of Forest Birds
Authors: CAMPBELL STEVEN P. , WITHAM JACK W. , HUNTER MALCOLM L.
Published: August 2007

Abstract: Relatively few studies have examined the ecological effects of group‐selection timber harvesting, and nearly all have been short‐term and have lacked experimental manipulations that allow pre‐ and posttreatment comparisons. We have been documenting the effects of a group‐selection timber harvest on bird abundance in a Maine forest for 24 years (preharvest, 1983–1987; postharvest, 1988–2006). Here we characterized the trends in bird abundance over the first 20 years of the study in the managed and control halves of the 40‐ha study area. Species responses to the group‐selection harvest were idiosyncratic, but in general the mature‐forest bird community was retained and species dependent on early successional habitat temporarily (≤8 years) benefited. The Eastern Wood‐Pewee (Contopus virens),Winter Wren (Troglodytes troglodytes),Pine Warbler (Dendroica pinus),and White‐throated Sparrow (Zonotrichia albicollis) increased in abundance in the managed half of the study area following timber harvest, whereas the Veery (Catharus fuscescens) decreased. The Black‐and‐White Warbler (Mniotilta varia),Nashville Warbler (Vermivora ruficapilla),and Common Yellowthroat (Geothlypis trichas) responded positively to harvesting, as indicated by decreases in abundance in the control area and more protracted declines or stable abundances in the managed area. This study constitutes the longest experimental investigation to date of the effects of a group‐selection harvest on birds and thus provides important information on the strength, direction, and duration of temporal changes in bird populations following forest management.
Middle Archean ocean ridge hydrothermal metamorphism and alteration recorded in the Cleaverville area, Pilbara Craton, Western Australia
Authors: SHIBUYA T. , KITAJIMA K. , KOMIYA T. , TERABAYASHI M. , MARUYAMA S.
Published: August 2007

A hydrothermally metamorphosed greenstone complex, capped by bedded cherts and banded iron formations (BIFs), is exposed in the Cleaverville area, Pilbara Craton, Western Australia. It has been interpreted as an accretionary complex characterized by both a duplex structure and an oceanic plate stratigraphy, and is shown to represent a 3.2 Ga upper oceanic crust. Three metamorphic zones are identified in the basaltic greenstones. The metamorphic grade increases from sub‐greenschist facies (zones A and B) to greenschist facies (zone C) under low‐pressure conditions. The boundaries between three mineral zones are subparallel to the bedding plane of overlying chert/BIF, and metamorphic temperature increases stratigraphically downward. The zones correspond to the thermal structure of ocean‐floor metamorphism, at a mid‐ocean ridge.

The uppermost greenstone in the study area is more pervasively altered and carbonatized than the modern upper oceanic crust. This indicates the enrichment of CO2 in the metamorphic fluid by which widespread formation of carbonate occurred, compared with a narrow stability region of Ca‐Al silicates. It is, therefore, suggested that the Archean hydrothermal alteration played a more important role in fixation of CO2 than present‐day ocean‐ridge hydrothermal alteration, as an interaction between sea water and oceanic crust.
Clasts of Variscan high‐grade rocks within Upper Viséan conglomerates – constraints on exhumation history from petrology and U‐Pb chronology
Authors: KOTKOVÁ J. , GERDES A. , PARRISH R. R. , NOVÁK M.
Published: August 2007

In this paper, U‐Pb zircon, monazite and rutile data for crystalline rocks deposited as clasts in the Upper Viséan conglomerates at the eastern margin of the Bohemian Massif are reported. U‐Pb data of spherical zircon from three different granulite clasts yielded a mean age of 339.0 ± 0.7 Ma (±2σ), while oval and spherical grains of another granulite pebble define a slightly younger date of 337.1 ± 1.1 Ma. These ages are interpreted as dating granulite facies metamorphism. Thermochronology and the derived pressure–temperature (P–T) path of the granulite pebbles reflect two‐stage exhumation of the granulites. Near‐to‐isothermal decompression from at least 44 km to mid‐crustal depths of around 22 km was followed by a near‐isobaric cooling stage based on reaction textures and geothermobarometry. Minimum average exhumation rate corresponds to 2.8–4.3 mm year−1. The extensive medium‐pressure/high‐temperature overprint on granulite assemblages is dated by U‐Pb in monazite atc. 333 Ma. This thermal event probably has a close link to generation and emplacement of voluminous Moldanubian granites, including the cordierite granite present in clasts. This granite was emplaced at mid‐crustal levels at 331 ± 3 Ma (U‐Pb monazite), whereas the U‐Pb zircon ages record only a previous magmatic event atc.378 Ma. Eclogites and garnet peridotites normally associated with high‐pressure granulites are absent in the clasts but exotic subvolcanic and volcanic members of the ultrapotassic igneous rock series (durbachites) of the Bohemian Massif have been found in the clasts. It is therefore assumed that the clasts deposited in the Upper Viséan conglomerates sampled a structurally higher tectonic unit than the one that corresponds to the present denudation level of the Moldanubicum of the Bohemian Massif. The strong medium‐temperature overprint on granulites dated atc. 333 Ma is attributed to the relatively small size of the entirely eroded bodies compared with the presently exposed granulites.
Talk‐Story: Perspectives of Children, Parents, and Community Leaders on Community Violence in Rural Hawaii
Authors: Affonso Dyanne D. , Shibuya June Y. , Frueh B. Christopher
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT
Purpose: To enhance our understanding of what community violence means to a multiethnic school community in rural Hawaii and obtain people's perspectives of how to deal with and prevent violence‐related behaviors among children.

Design and sample: An exploratory design was used to collect qualitative data from a purposive sample of 150 key stakeholder participants, including 84 school children aged 5–10 years and 66 adults.

Measurement: Focus group methodology via Hawaiian island‐style (culturally adapted techniques) of “talk‐story” and a metaphor of introduction were used to elicit contextual data on the experiences, meanings, and perceptions of youth violence. Qualitative narrative analyses were used to analyze the data.

Results: Five higher order themes were found, including the need to: build a common understanding of what violence looks like; develop school‐based identification, management, and prevention efforts; develop comprehensive school health services; develop state‐level school health policies; and conduct outreach to make violence prevention a community affair.

Conclusion: The findings will inform the development of a school‐based culturally adapted violence‐prevention program led by teachers, in partnership with parents, students, and community‐cultural leaders.
Legacies of Advantage and Disadvantage: The Case of Teen Mothers
Authors: SmithBattle Lee
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT
Objectives: The life trajectories of teen mothers and their children were examined with data from a larger longitudinal study.

Design: All 5 waves of the study were designed from the hermeneutic tradition.

Sample: Sixteen families began the study in 1988–1989 (Time 1) and were invited to participate in subsequent studies (1993, 1997, 2001, and 2005). Twenty‐eight informants participated in the fifth wave of the study (Time 5).

Measurement: This analysis capitalized on the diversity of teen mothers' family backgrounds to examine the life chances of mothers and their first‐born children as mothers entered their 30s. Three domains are addressed: teen mothers' educational attainment, their social class status, and their oldest child's school progress and sexual activity.

Results: Teen mothers' life trajectories reflected legacies of unequal life chances that began in childhood and persisted into their 30s. Mothers with childhood advantages fared better over time than impoverished mothers, and a legacy of advantage contributed to a cushion of safety and opportunity for their teenaged children.

Conclusion: The powerful legacy of social class and racial divisions on teen mothers' long‐term outcomes challenges the view that teen mothering leads to a downward spiral with negative repercussions for mothers and children.
Public Health Perspectives on the Rising Incidence of Pertussis
Authors: Judelsohn Richard G. , Koslap‐Petraco Mary Beth
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT
Objectives: Pertussis is one of the few vaccine‐preventable diseases on the rise in the United States, particularly among adolescents. We analyzed the epidemiology of pertussis, focusing on disease burden in public health, and examined methods for controlling pertussis and reducing its incidence.

Design, sample, and measurements: We evaluated current knowledge about pertussis, reported cases of pertussis in the United States, and the changing recognition, diagnosis, and management of the disease. The development of a pertussis vaccine, now licensed and recommended for use in adolescents and adults, was reviewed.

Results: Of reported cases in 2004, 38% occurred in adolescents. The increased incidence of pertussis may be the result of better diagnosis, better reporting, and increased awareness of the disease. The burden of adolescent and adult pertussis is significant and includes medical visits, laboratory tests, treatment for cases and contacts, time lost from school and work, disruption of schools experiencing outbreaks, and public health and media turmoil. At current disease rates, the financial cost of adolescent pertussis in this decade is projected at $3.2 billion.

Conclusions: Efforts are needed to increase health care providers' knowledge of pertussis disease and vaccines, improve on‐time infant immunization rates, promote immunization registries and public health surveillance, and ensure adequate compensation for vaccine purchase and administration. Universal recommendations for and widespread use of acellular pertussis vaccines in adolescents are the most effective measures in controlling the disease.
Acute Ethanol Exposure Combined With Burn Injury Enhances IL‐6 Levels in the Murine Ileum
Authors: Scalfani Michael T. , Chan David M. , Murdoch Eva L. , Kovacs Elizabeth J. , White Fletcher A.
Published: August 2007

Background:  Recent studies suggest that ethanol use imposes a greater risk of trauma‐associated intestinal injury than trauma alone. The initiating and regulatory factors for multiple organ dysfunction syndromes are not well defined, yet evidence points to the gut as a possible trigger of the systemic inflammatory cascade as well as a potential source of cytokines. In the current study, we hypothesized that ethanol administration would alter cytokine levels and intestinal infiltration by neutrophils within the ileum of mice exposed to burn injury (15% total body surface of dorsal skin).

Methods:  Ileal samples were collected for histological assessment, myeloperoxidase quantitation and the protein presence of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), interleukin (IL‐) 6, macrophage inflammatory protein‐2 (MIP‐2; CXCL2) and the anti‐inflammatory cytokine, IL‐10. Additional ileal tissue samples were examined for localization of the IL‐6 immunoreactivity.

Results:  We did not detect statistically significant cytokine/chemokine differences (MIP‐2 and IL‐10) between sham control and treatment conditions at either 2 or 24 hours. However, there was a significant decrease in TNFα at 24 hours in both burn injury alone and in combination with ethanol treatment conditions (p < 0.05). In addition, there was an increase in IL‐6 levels at 24 hours in intestinal tissue obtained from mice subjected to a combination of acute ethanol and burn injury, compared to the mice receiving burn or sham injury (p < 0.001). Ileal homogenate increases in IL‐6 at 24 hours were concurrent with decreased villus height in the ileum, but no discernable changes in neutrophil infiltration (myeloperoxidase activity levels) at either 2 or 24 hours. Additional immunocytochemical localization studies of ileal tissue revealed that there was a substantial increase of IL‐6 in intestinal enterocytes subjected to both burn injury alone, or in combination with acute ethanol exposure.

Conclusions:  The present study suggests that acute ethanol exposure combined with burn injury enhances levels of IL‐6 protein in the ileum. The enhanced levels of ileal IL‐6 are likely due to enterocyte production of the cytokine.
The Relationship Between Self‐Rated Health and Mortality in Older Black and White Americans
Authors: Lee Sei J. , Moody‐Ayers Sandra Y. , Landefeld C. Seth , Walter Louise C. , Lindquist Karla , Segal Mark R. , Covinsky Kenneth E.
Published: August 2007

OBJECTIVES: To determine whether the association between self‐rated health (SRH) and 4‐year mortality differs between black and white Americans and whether education affects this relationship.

DESIGN: Prospective cohort.

SETTING: Communities in the United States.

PARTICIPANTS: Sixteen thousand four hundred thirty‐two subjects (14,004 white, 2,428 black) enrolled in the 1998 wave of the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), a population‐based study of community‐dwelling U.S. adults aged 50 and older.

MEASUREMENTS: Subjects were asked to self‐identify their race and their overall health by answering the question, “Would you say your health is excellent, very good, good, fair, or poor?” Death was determined according to the National Death Index.

RESULTS: SRH is a much stronger predictor of mortality in whites than blacks (c‐statistic 0.71 vs 0.62). In whites, poor SRH resulted in a markedly higher risk of mortality than excellent SRH (odds ratio (OR)=10.4, 95% confidence interval (CI)=8.0–13.6). In blacks, poor RSH resulted in a much smaller increased risk of mortality (OR=2.9, 95% CI=1.5–5.5). SRH was a stronger predictor of death in white and black subjects with higher levels of education, but differences in education could not account for the observed race differences in the prognostic effect of SRH.

CONCLUSION: This population‐based study found that the relationship between SRH and mortality is stronger in white Americans and in subjects with higher levels of education. Because the association between SRH and mortality appears weakest in traditionally disadvantaged groups, SRH may not be the best measure to identify vulnerable older subjects.
Identifying Vulnerable Older Adults with Cancer: Integrating Geriatric Assessment into Oncology Practice
Authors: Hurria Arti , Lichtman Stuart M. , Gardes Jonathan , Li Daneng , Limaye Sewanti , Patil Sujata , Zuckerman Enid , Tew William , Hamlin Paul , Abou‐Alfa Ghassan K. , Lachs Mark , Kelly Eva
Published: August 2007

OBJECTIVES: To integrate the principles of geriatric assessment into the care of older patients with cancer in order to identify vulnerable older adults and develop interventions to optimize cancer treatment.

DESIGN: A brief, comprehensive, self‐administered questionnaire and intervention algorithm were developed consisting of measures of geriatric assessment that are brief, reliable, validated, and predictive of mortality and morbidity in older patients.

SETTING: Academic tertiary care cancer center and community‐based satellite practice.

PARTICIPANTS: Patients aged 65 and older with cancer.

MEASUREMENTS: The questionnaire solicits information about the patient's functional status, comorbidity, psychological status, nutritional status, and social support. A scoring algorithm for referral to a multidisciplinary team was developed.

RESULTS: Two hundred forty‐five of 250 patients completed the questionnaire (mean age 76, range 65–95). The majority of patients were women (71%), white (95%), married (52%), and retired (90%), with a variety of tumor types and stages. Most patients (78%) completed the questionnaire on their own and reported acceptance of questionnaire length (91%), no difficult questions (94%), no upsetting questions (96%), and no missing questions (89%). The mean time to completion was 15 minutes, with a median of 12.5 (standard deviation 10, range 2–60). Information from this questionnaire helped identify physical and psychological impairments, poor nutrition, lack of social support, and untreated comorbidities. Appropriate referrals to a multidisciplinary team were made.

CONCLUSION: This brief, comprehensive, self‐administered questionnaire is feasible for use in the outpatient oncology setting and helped identify the needs of geriatric oncology patients. Prospective trials are needed to determine the effectiveness of the interventions offered.
AIDS Risk Behaviors among American and Australian Homeless Youth
Authors: Milburn Norweeta G. , Stein Judith A. , Rice Eric , Rotheram‐Borus Mary Jane , Mallett Shelley , Rosenthal Doreen , Lightfoot Marguerita
Published: August 2007

We examined HIV/AIDS risk behaviors among homeless youth in cross‐national data collected in Melbourne, Australia (n= 398), and Los Angeles, California (n= 498). Using structural equation modeling, we found that the Australian youth reported greater involvement in AIDS risk behaviors than the American youth and the Australian youth were more involved in intervening risk factors that promote risk behaviors and less involved with protective factors that reduce risk behaviors. Youth reporting the highest rates of delinquent behaviors also had peers engaging in delinquent acts, used alcohol and marijuana, and were more likely to utilize social services. These findings underscore the importance of having a service sector that is able to adequately address the needs of homeless youth.
A Research Program on Homelessness in France
Authors: Firdion Jean‐Marie , Marpsat Maryse
Published: August 2007

Data on the homeless in France were obtained from two surveys conducted in Paris and a recent national survey. What emerges from these surveys of homeless people is their social proximity to other people who are living in conditions of poverty. The findings draw attention to the diversity of the individuals involved. Both contextual factors (e.g., industrial restructuring) and individual handicaps (e.g., poor education and living conditions during childhood) must be taken into account in order to explain why some people are at greater risk than others of losing their home. The findings suggest that preventive policy must not just focus on keeping people in their homes, but also contribute to the more general struggle against all aspects of poverty.
Homelessness in the Czech Republic
Authors: Hladikova Aftab , Hradecky Ilja
Published: August 2007

This article discusses homelessness in the Czech Republic. In doing so the authors have used an operational definition common in the European Union. In order to explain homelessness in the Czech Republic, the article examines the relevant laws and governmental policies. Then the article discusses some causes of homelessness in the Czech Republic, a recent census of the homeless in the nation, the activities of service‐providing organizations, the financing of social services in the nation, health and health care among homeless people, a new food bank, and the harmonization of the Czech Republic with the common objectives of the rest of the European Union.
International Homelessness: Policy, Socio‐Cultural, and Individual Perspectives
Authors: Shinn Marybeth
Published: August 2007

This article draws on other papers in the special issue and additional literature to offer a multi‐level framework for understanding the causes of homelessness in the developed world and efforts to reduce or end it. Social policies that reduce inequality and provide income and other supports to those at the bottom of the income distribution are associated with lower levels of homelessness across nations. The allocation of subsidies, patterns of social exclusion, and individual levels of economic, social, and human capital interact to influence who becomes homeless. Interventions to reduce homelessness at one level (e.g., social policy) can counteract vulnerabilities at a different level (e.g., individual risk factors).
Working Orders in Limit Order Markets and Floor Exchanges
Authors: BACK KERRY , BARUCH SHMUEL
Published: August 2007

We analyze limit order markets and floor exchanges, assuming an informed trader and discretionary liquidity traders use market orders and can either submit block orders or work their demands as a series of small orders. By working their demands, large market order traders pool with small traders. We show that every equilibrium on a floor exchange must involve at least partial pooling. Moreover, there is always a fully pooling (worked order) equilibrium on a floor exchange that is equivalent to a block order equilibrium in a limit order market.
Lazy Investors, Discretionary Consumption, and the Cross‐Section of Stock Returns
Authors: JAGANNATHAN RAVI , WANG YONG
Published: August 2007

When consumption betas of stocks are computed using year‐over‐year consumption growth based upon the fourth quarter, the consumption‐based asset pricing model (CCAPM) explains the cross‐section of stock returns as well as the Fama and French (1993) three‐factor model. The CCAPM's performance deteriorates substantially when consumption growth is measured based upon other quarters. For the CCAPM to hold at any given point in time, investors must make their consumption and investment decisions simultaneously at that point in time. We suspect that this is more likely to happen during the fourth quarter, given investors' tax year ends in December.
How Costly Is External Financing? Evidence from a Structural Estimation
Authors: HENNESSY CHRISTOPHER A. , WHITED TONI M.
Published: August 2007

We apply simulated method of moments to a dynamic model to infer the magnitude of financing costs. The model features endogenous investment, distributions, leverage, and default. The corporation faces taxation, costly bankruptcy, and linear‐quadratic equity flotation costs. For large (small) firms, estimated marginal equity flotation costs start at 5.0% (10.7%) and bankruptcy costs equal to 8.4% (15.1%) of capital. Estimated financing frictions are higher for low‐dividend firms and those identified as constrained by the Cleary and Whited‐Wu indexes. In simulated data, many common proxies for financing constraints actually decrease when we increase financing cost parameters.
Do Tests of Capital Structure Theory Mean What They Say?
Authors: STREBULAEV ILYA A.
Published: August 2007

In the presence of frictions, firms adjust their capital structure infrequently. As a consequence, in a dynamic economy the leverage of most firms is likely to differ from the “optimum” leverage at the time of readjustment. This paper explores the empirical implications of this observation. I use a calibrated dynamic trade‐off model to simulate firms' capital structure paths. The results of standard cross‐sectional tests on these data are consistent with those reported in the empirical literature. In particular, the standard interpretation of some test results leads to the rejection of the underlying model. Taken together, the results suggest a rethinking of the way capital structure tests are conducted.
The Takeover Deterrent Effect of Open Market Share Repurchases
Authors: BILLETT MATTHEW T. , XUE HUI
Published: August 2007

This paper examines whether open market share repurchases deter takeovers. We model pre‐repurchase takeover probability as a latent variable and examine its impact on the firm's decision to repurchase shares. Given specification tests reject the Tobit model, we turn to the censored quantile regression method of Powell (1986, Journal of Econometrics 32, 143–155). We find a significantly positive relation between open market share repurchases and takeover probability, and we reconcile empirical findings in previous studies that contradict predictions. Repurchase activity is inversely related to firm size, consistent with smaller firms having greater information asymmetry, and is related to temporary, but not permanent, cash flows.
Corporate Governance and Acquirer Returns
Authors: MASULIS RONALD W. , WANG CONG , XIE FEI
Published: August 2007

We examine whether corporate governance mechanisms, especially the market for corporate control, affect the profitability of firm acquisitions. We find that acquirers with more antitakeover provisions experience significantly lower announcement‐period abnormal stock returns. This supports the hypothesis that managers at firms protected by more antitakeover provisions are less subject to the disciplinary power of the market for corporate control and thus are more likely to indulge in empire‐building acquisitions that destroy shareholder value. We also find that acquirers operating in more competitive industries or separating the positions of CEO and chairman of the board experience higher abnormal announcement returns.
Plaque Color Analysis by the Conventional Yellow‐Color Grading System and Quantitative Measurement Using LCH Color Space
Authors: OKADA KATSUKI , UEDA YASUNORI , OYABU JOTA , OGASAWARA NOBUYUKI , HIRAYAMA ATSUSHI , KODAMA KAZUHISA
Published: August 2007

Background:
Yellow plaques of higher color grades are regarded as more vulnerable. We tried to elucidate the characteristics of yellow color that are regarded as the sign of vulnerable plaques by an objective and quantitative plaque color analysis.

Methods:
The color of yellow plaques was quantitatively analyzed using LCH color space and was presented by the maximum values of lightness (Lmax), chroma (Cmax), and hue (Hmax). Effect of light intensity on these parameters was experimentally examined (five plaque models, six light intensities). Relation between conventional yellow‐color grade and LCH parameters was examined (31 plaques). Color analysis with LCH color space was applied (1) to compare the culprit lesions of unstable angina (eight patients) and of stable effort angina (nine patients) and (2) to evaluate the regression of yellow plaque by 80‐week statin treatment (four patients, 19 plaques).

Results:
Cmax and Hmax were not influenced by light intensity so far as it was within appropriate range. Cmax (13 ± 3, 25 ± 5, and 28 ± 4) became higher and Hmax (178 ± 26, 134 ± 10, and 91 ± 16) became lower as the grade became higher (P < 0.0001). Culprit lesions of unstable angina had higher Cmax (22.8 ± 7.9 vs 14.8 ± 7.5, P = 0.04) and lower Hmax (73.3 ± 19.7 vs 168.0 ± 71.5, P = 0.002) than stable effort angina. Statin treatment reduced Cmax (21.3 ± 9.6 vs 14.6 ± 3.1, P = 0.004) and increased Hmax (82.6 ± 25.8 vs 142.3 ± 54.1, P = 0.0005).

Conclusions:
Plaque color was consistently and quantitatively measurable using LCH color space uninfluenced by light intensity of appropriate range. Vulnerable yellow color had high chroma and low hue, indicating vivid and reddish‐yellow color.
Trials and Tribulations of Carotid Artery Stenting: The Interventionalists' Perspective on SAPPHIRE, EVA‐3S, and SPACE Trials
Authors: HARJAI KISHORE J. , MEHTA RAJENDRA H.
Published: August 2007

Three recently completed randomized studies of carotid artery stenting (CAS) versus endarterectomy—Stenting and Angioplasty with Protection in Patients at High Risk for Endarterectomy (SAPPHIRE), Endarterectomy versus Stenting in Patients with Symptomatic Severe Carotid Stenosis (EVA‐3S), and Stent‐Supported Percutaneous Angioplasty of the Carotid Artery versus Endarterectomy (SPACE)—reached vividly different conclusions about the safety of stenting versus endarterectomy. The methodologies of these studies differed from each other in many respects. In an attempt to explain the disparate results of SAPPHIRE, EVA‐3S, and SPACE, this focused review compares and contrasts these studies, with specific reference to inclusion and exclusion criteria, technical considerations, and the experience level of the interventional operators.
Effects of TiO2 Seeding Layer on Crystalline Orientation and Ferroelectric Properties of Bi3.15Nd0.85Ti3O12 Thin Films Fabricated by a Sol–Gel Method
Authors: Li Jia , Yu Jun , Peng Gang , Wang Yunbo , Zhou Wenli
Published: August 2007

The effect of a 20‐nm thick TiO2 seeding layer on the growth of a Bi3.15Nd0.85Ti3O12 (BNT) thin film on Pt(111) thin‐film substrates has been studied. Under otherwise identical deposition process conditions, the BNT film could be turned from a highly random orientation to a (200) preference orientation by adding the seeding layer. Field‐emission scanning electron microscope result reveals that the BNT thin film with the TiO2 seeding layer is composed of fine grains with smaller sizes about 80–150 nm in diameter. The Pr and Ec values of the BNT thin film and BNT film with the TiO2 seeding layer were 36 and 16 μC/cm2, and 96.9 and 92 kV/cm at a voltage of 12 V, respectively. The fatigue test exhibited a very strong fatigue endurance up to 109 cycles for both films. The leakage current densities were generally in the order of 10−6–10−5 A/cm2 for both samples.
In SituSynthesis and Properties of Ti3AlC2/TiB2Composites
Authors: Li Chao , Li Meishuan , Zhou Yanchun , Zhang Jie , He Lingfeng
Published: August 2007

In order to improve the mechanical properties of Ti3AlC2, near‐fully dense Ti3AlC2/TiB2composites were synthesized using Ti, Al, graphite, and B4C powders as the initial materials. Compared with monolithic Ti3AlC2, the composites exhibit a much higher strength (for the compressive strength, from initial 723 MPa to maximal 2205 MPa; for flexural strength, from initial 340 MPa to maximal 861 MPa), and the strengthening effect can be held at least up to 1100°C. Moreover, besides the enhancement of the elastic modulus and hardness of Ti3AlC2, the introduction of a TiB2phase makes a positive contribution to its electrical conductivity.
Dispersion of Oleate‐Modified CuO Nanoparticles in a Nonpolar Solvent
Authors: Jeng Jaw‐Yeu , Liu Jen‐Chieh , Jean Jau‐Ho
Published: August 2007

Two nanosized cupric oxide powders, which are synthesized by a vapor‐phase reaction and aqueous precipitation, are surface modified with oleic acid to form cupric oleate on the surface. This enhances the dispersibility of cupric oxide powders in a nonpolar solvent of octane. The cupric oxide powder prepared by aqueous precipitation exhibits much better dispersion in octane than that synthesized by vapor‐phase reaction. This is attributed to the presence of larger amounts of hydroxyl group on the particle surface, forming more cupric oleate and thus enhancing the colloidal stability of the resulting organic suspension.
Atmospheric Pressure Synthesis of Heavy Rare Earth Sesquioxides Nanoparticles of the Uncommon Monoclinic Phase
Authors: Guo Bing , Harvey Ashley S. , Neil John , Kennedy Ian M. , Navrotsky Alexandra , Risbud Subhash H.
Published: August 2007

We report, for the first time, the atmospheric pressure synthesis of nonagglomerated nanoparticles (20–60 nm in diameter) of the uncommon monoclinic phase of some heavy rare earth sesquioxides RE2O3 (RE=Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, and Yb). The RE2O3 nanoparticles, prepared by a flame synthesis process, were characterized by X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and electron energy loss spectroscopy. Monoclinic nanoparticles were formed when the flame temperature was sufficiently high; lower temperatures led to the formation of the normal cubic (C‐type) phase. We explain the formation of the uncommon monoclinic phase on the basis of pressure–temperature phase equilibria, and the extra internal pressure induced by surface curvature of the nanoparticles.
Compositional Inhomogeneity in Li‐ and Ta‐Modified (K, Na)NbO3 Ceramics
Authors: Wang Yongli , Damjanovic Dragan , Klein Naama , Hollenstein Evelyn , Setter Nava
Published: August 2007

Compositional inhomogeneity is examined in Li‐ and Ta‐modified potassium sodium niobate (K,Na)NbO3 perovskite ceramics. The inhomogeneous distribution of the A‐site (K and Na) and B‐site (Nb and Ta) cations is found to be correlative. The inhomogeneity could not be eliminated by prolonged high‐temperature annealing in samples prepared by direct mixing of alkaline carbonates and Ta and Nb oxides. In contrast, the precursor method, where a (NbxTa1−x)2O5 solid solution was first formed, led to a considerably improved compositional homogeneity and appreciably enhanced dielectric, ferroelectric, and piezoelectric properties. Our results suggest that more attention needs to be paid toward controlling the compositional fluctuation of this complex solid solution system.
Individual differences in allocation of funds in the dictator game associated with length of the arginine vasopressin 1a receptor RS3 promoter region and correlation between RS3 length and hippocampal mRNA
Authors: Knafo A. , Israel S. , Darvasi A. , Bachner‐Melman R. , Uzefovsky F. , Cohen L. , Feldman E. , Lerer E. , Laiba E. , Raz Y. , Nemanov L. , Gritsenko I. , Dina C. , Agam G. , Dean B. , Bornstein G. , Ebstein R. P.
Published: August 2007

Human altruism is a widespread phenomenon that puzzled evolutionary biologists since Darwin. Economic games illustrate human altruism by showing that behavior deviates from economic predictions of profit maximization. A game that most plainly shows this altruistic tendency is the Dictator Game. We hypothesized that human altruistic behavior is to some extent hardwired and that a likely candidate that may contribute to individual differences in altruistic behavior is the arginine vasopressin 1a (AVPR1a) receptor that in some mammals such as the vole has a profound impact on affiliative behaviors. In the current investigation, 203 male and female university students played an online version of the Dictator Game, for real money payoffs. All subjects and their parents were genotyped for AVPR1a RS1 and RS3 promoter‐region repeat polymorphisms. Parents did not participate in online game playing. As variation in the length of a repetitive element in the vole AVPR1a promoter region is associated with differences in social behavior, we examined the relationship between RS1 and RS3 repeat length (base pairs) and allocation sums. Participants with short versions (308–325 bp) of the AVPR1a RS3 repeat allocated significantly (likelihood ratio = 14.75, P = 0.001, df = 2) fewer shekels to the ‘other’ than participants with long versions (327–343 bp). We also implemented a family‐based association test, UNPHASED, to confirm and validate the correlation between the AVPR1a RS3 repeat and monetary allocations in the dictator game. Dictator game allocations were significantly associated with the RS3 repeat (global P value: likelihood ratio χ2 = 11.73, df = 4, P = 0.019). The association between the AVPR1a RS3 repeat and altruism was also confirmed using two self‐report scales (the Bardi–Schwartz Universalism and Benevolence Value‐expressive Behavior scales). RS3 long alleles were associated with higher scores on both measures. Finally, long AVPR1a RS3 repeats were associated with higher AVPR1a human post‐mortem hippocampal messenger RNA levels than short RS3 repeats (one‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA): F = 15.04, P = 0.001, df = 14) suggesting a functional molecular genetic basis for the observation that participants with the long RS3 repeats allocate more money than participants with the short repeats. This is the first investigation showing that a common human polymorphism, with antecedents in lower mammals, contributes to decision making in an economic game. The finding that the same gene contributing to social bonding in lower animals also appears to operate similarly in human behavior suggests a common evolutionary mechanism.
Transcriptional upregulation of inflammatory cytokines in human intestinal epithelial cells following Vibrio cholerae infection
Authors: Bandyopadhaya Arunava , Sarkar Madhubanti , Chaudhuri Keya
Published: August 2007

Coordinated expression and upregulation of interleukin‐1α, interleukin‐1β, tumor necrosis factor‐α, interleukin‐6, granulocyte–macrophage colony‐stimulating factor, interleukin‐8, monocyte chemotactic protein‐1 (MCP‐1) and epithelial cell derived neutrophil activator‐78, with chemoattractant and proinflammatory properties of various cytokine families, were obtained in the intestinal epithelial cell line Int407 upon Vibrio cholerae infection. These proinflammatory cytokines also showed increased expression in T84 cells, except for interleukin‐6, whereas a striking dissimilarity in cytokine expression was observed in Caco‐2 cells. Gene expression studies of MCP‐1, granulocyte–macrophage colony‐stimulating factor, interleukin‐1α, interleukin‐6 and the anti‐inflammatory cytokine transforming growth factor‐β in Int407 cells with V. cholerae culture supernatant, cholera toxin, lipopolysaccharide and ctxA mutant demonstrated that, apart from cholera toxin and lipopolysaccharide, V. cholerae culture supernatant harbors strong inducer(s) of interleukin‐6 and MCP‐1 and moderate inducer(s) of interleukin‐1α and granulocyte–macrophage colony‐stimulating factor. Cholera toxin‐ or lipopolysaccharide‐induced cytokine expression is facilitated by activation of nuclear factor‐κB (p65 and p50) and cAMP response element‐binding protein in Int407 cells. Studies with ctxA mutants of V. cholerae revealed that the mutant activates the p65 subunit of nuclear factor‐κB and cAMP response element‐binding protein, and as such the activation is mediated by cholera toxin‐independent factors as well. We conclude that V. cholerae elicits a proinflammatory response in Int407 cells that is mediated by activation of nuclear factor‐κB and cAMP response element‐binding protein by cholera toxin, lipopolysaccharide and/or other secreted products of V. cholerae.
Plasticity of S2–S4 specificity pockets of executioner caspase‐7 revealed by structural and kinetic analysis
Authors: Agniswamy Johnson , Fang Bin , Weber Irene T.
Published: August 2007

Many protein substrates of caspases are cleaved at noncanonical sites in comparison to the recognition motifs reported for the three caspase subgroups. To provide insight into the specificity and aid in the design of drugs to control cell death, crystal structures of caspase‐7 were determined in complexes with six peptide analogs (Ac‐DMQD‐Cho, Ac‐DQMD‐Cho, Ac‐DNLD‐Cho, Ac‐IEPD‐Cho, Ac‐ESMD‐Cho, Ac‐WEHD‐Cho) that span the major recognition motifs of the three subgroups. The crystal structures show that the S2 pocket of caspase‐7 can accommodate diverse residues. Glu is not required at the P3 position because Ac‐DMQD‐Cho, Ac‐DQMD‐Cho and Ac‐DNLD‐Cho with varied P3 residues are almost as potent as the canonical Ac‐DEVD‐Cho. P4 Asp was present in the better inhibitors of caspase‐7. However, the S4 pocket of executioner caspase‐7 has alternate regions for binding of small branched aliphatic or polar residues similar to those of initiator caspase‐8. The observed plasticity of the caspase subsites agrees very well with the reported cleavage of many proteins at noncanonical sites. The results imply that factors other than the P4–P1 sequence, such as exosites, contribute to the in vivo substrate specificity of caspases. The novel peptide binding site identified on the molecular surface of the current structures is suggested to be an exosite of caspase‐7. These results should be considered in the design of selective small molecule inhibitors of this pharmacologically important protease.
Molecular cloning, expression and characterization of protein disulfide isomerase from Conus marmoreus
Authors: Wang Zhi‐Qiang , Han Yu‐Hong , Shao Xiao‐Xia , Chi Cheng‐Wu , Guo Zhan‐Yun
Published: August 2007

The oxidative folding of disulfide‐rich conotoxins is essential for their biological functions. In vivo, disulfide bond formation is mainly catalyzed by protein disulfide isomerase. To elucidate the physiologic roles of protein disulfide isomerase in the folding of conotoxins, we have cloned a novel full‐length protein disulfide isomerase from Conus marmoreus. Its ORF encodes a 500 amino acid protein that shares sequence homology with protein disulfide isomerases from other species, and 70% homology with human protein disulfide isomerase. Enzymatic analyses of recombinant C. marmoreus protein disulfide isomerase showed that it shared functional similarities with human protein disulfide isomerase. Using conotoxins tx3a and sTx3.1 as substrate, we analyzed the oxidase and isomerase activities of the C. marmoreus protein disulfide isomerase and found that it was much more efficient than glutathione in catalyzing oxidative folding and disulfide isomerization of conotoxins. We further demonstrated that macromolecular crowding had little effect on the protein disulfide isomerase‐catalyzed oxidative folding and disulfide isomerization of conotoxins. On the basis of these data, we propose that the C. marmoreus protein disulfide isomerase plays a key role during in vivo folding of conotoxins.
Measuring Diagnostic Competency and the Analysis of Factors Influencing Competency Using Written Case Studies
Authors: Hasegawa Tomoko , Ogasawara Chie , Katz Edmont C.
Published: August 2007

PURPOSES. To measure nurses’ diagnostic competencies by using written case studies and to analyze factors influencing these competencies.

METHODS. A descriptive study was conducted using survey methods and a mailed questionnaire with a convenience sample of 376 nurses. Two written case studies were used to measure the diagnostic competencies of the subjects. Possible factors influencing nurses’ judgments in making nursing diagnoses that were measured were clinical experience, decision‐making responsibility, knowledge of nursing diagnosis, and attitude toward the use of nursing diagnosis.

FINDINGS. Subjects who demonstrated all three competencies were 35% (n = 131) for case study 1, and 53% (n = 200) for case study 2. Subjects who demonstrated diagnostic competency in defining diagnostic labels had the longest length of clinical experience. Subjects who were primary nurses with the usual responsibility of identifying nursing diagnoses showed the highest percentage of competency rates for defining characteristics, related factors, and risk factors.

CONCLUSIONS. Many of these Japanese nurses did not perform at satisfactory levels of diagnostic competency with these two written case studies. Factors that influenced diagnostic competency were length of clinical experience, decision‐making responsibility, and frequency of studying nursing diagnosis.
First evidence of maternal transmission of algal endosymbionts at an oocyte stage in a triploblastic host, with observations on reproduction inWaminoa brickneri(Acoelomorpha)
Authors: Barneah Orit , Brickner Itzchak , Hooge Matthew , Weis Virginia M. , Benayahu Yehuda
Published: August 2007

Abstract.Examination of sexual reproduction in a symbiotic acoelomorph worm,Waminoa bricknerifrom Eilat (Red Sea), presents the first definitive evidence for maternal transmission of dinoflagellate algal symbionts in a triploblastic organism. Sexually mature worms were removed from the stony coralPlesiastrea laxaand raised in the laboratory. Eggs were detected 18 d after the collection of the worms and hatched 4 d later. Histological sections performed on sexually mature worms showed an ovary with oocytes containing two distinct types of algal endosymbionts within their ooplasm. Transmission electron microscopy corroborated the presence of algal symbionts within the developing embryos. Our findings regarding maternal transmission of symbionts shed new light on the diversity of modes of algal symbiont acquisition known in triploblastic organisms.
F‐actin framework in Spirorbis cf. spirorbis (Annelida: Serpulidae): phalloidin staining investigated and reconstructed by cLSM
Authors: Rüchel Jens , Müller Monika C. M.
Published: August 2007

Abstract. Serpulidae encompasses polychaete species whose members have fused anterior ends bearing a tentacular crown, a heteronomous segmented body with a thorax and abdomen, and “chaetal inversion” between the two tagmata. The sessile filter‐feeding organisms live in self‐built, coiled, calcareous tubes on algae. The F‐actin muscular subset of Spirorbis cf. spirorbis was stained with phalloidin and three‐dimensionally reconstructed by means of cLSM, aiming to investigate (1) how the tentacular crown is organized and moved, (2) whether the internal structures, e.g., musculature, follow the thorax–abdomen inversion, and (3) whether circular muscles are present in serpulids. The third aim is by reason of recent investigations suggesting that lack of circular muscle fibers may be a common situation rather than a rare variation in polychaetes. In this manner, this article is part of a comparative evaluation of polychaete muscle systems. We found that longitudinal muscles of the body wall project into the tentacular crown, and that radioli and pinnulae possess three muscle types each, facilitating their great mobility. Operculum, collar, and a pair of unidentified organs possess distinct F‐actin filaments. The trunk is mainly moved by five longitudinal muscle strands, most obvious in the abdomen: two dorsal, two ventral, and an unpaired ventromedian one, out of which the dorsal ones are the strongest. In anterior regions, the two dorsal strands form a single continuous layer; the separated strands lessen posteriorly. Solitary transverse fibers are located ventrally in the middle of each segment, stretching between longitudinal muscles and coelomic lining laterally, where they end. Peripheral and central dorsoventral muscles, two pairs per segment each, are present. Circular fibers as well as bracing muscles were not detected. The results indicate that the musculature does not follow the thorax–abdomen inversion and Serpulidae represents the 15th polychaete taxon in which circular fibers are totally missing.