bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Climate treaties and the imperative of enforcement
Authors: Barrett Scott
Published: October 2008

The emission limits in the Kyoto Protocol are too generous. Simply tightening these limits, however, will not make a new climate treaty any more effective at addressing climate change unless the other problems with Kyoto are also addressed. A new climate treaty arrangement must enforce both participation and compliance. This might be done by applying an enforcement mechanism, such as a trade restriction, to a new treaty styled after Kyoto. Potent trade restrictions, however, may lack credibility and legitimacy. An alternative approach recommended here is to break the problem up, with separate (but linked) agreements addressing individual gases and sectors, using the most appropriate means to enforce each component of the system. In bundling together all sectors and greenhouse gases in a single agreement, Kyoto has aimed to achieve cost-effectiveness at the expense of enforcement, which depends on the treaty's weakest enforcement link. The imperative must be to ensure that any future treaty arrangement can be enforced.
China's balance of emissions embodied in trade: approaches to measurement and allocating international responsibility
Authors: Pan Jiahua , Phillips Jonathan , Chen Ying
Published: October 2008

International trade is characterized not only by the flow of capital and goods, but also by the energy and emissions embodied in goods during their production. This paper investigates the evolving role that Chinese trade is playing in the response to climate change by estimating the scale of emissions embodied in China's current trade pattern and demonstrating the magnitude of the difference between the emissions it produces (some of which are incurred to meet the consumption demands of the rest of the world) and the emissions embodied in the goods it consumes. Estimating China's emissions on a consumption rather than a production basis both lowers its responsibility for carbon-dioxide (CO2) emissions in 2006 from 5,500 to 3,840mtCO2 and reduces the growth rate of emissions from an average of 12.5 per cent p.a. to 8.7 per cent p.a. between 2001 and 2006. The analysis indicates that a reliable consumption-based accounting methodology is feasible and could improve our understanding of which actors and states are responsible for emissions. For example, recent emissions reductions by developed countries may lack credibility if production has merely been displaced to countries such as China. Moreover, in the current institutional context, production methodologies encourage leakages through trade that may do more to displace than to reduce emissions. Both equity and efficiency concerns therefore suggest that emissions embodied in trade should receive special attention in the distribution of post-Kyoto abatement burdens.
Climate change and Africa
Authors: Collier Paul , Conway Gordon , Venables Tony
Published: October 2008

The impact of climate change on Africa is likely to be severe because of adverse direct effects, high agricultural dependence, and limited capacity to adapt. Direct effects vary widely across the continent, with some areas (e.g. eastern Africa) predicted to get wetter, but much of southern Africa getting drier and hotter. Crop yields will be adversely affected and the frequency of extreme weather events will increase. Adaptation to climate change is primarily a private-sector response and should involve relocation of people, changes in the sectoral structure of production, and changes in crop patterns. The role of government is primarily to provide the information, incentives, and economic environment to facilitate such changes. Adaptation will be impeded by Africa's fragmentation into small countries and ethnic groups, and by poor business environments. On the mitigation side, there is a need to design emissions-trading frameworks that support greater African participation than at present, and that include land-use change. Mitigation undertaken elsewhere will have a major impact on Africa, both positive (e.g. new technologies) and negative (e.g. commodity price changes arising from biofuel policies).
Signal processing of the surface electromyogram to gain insight into neuromuscular physiology
Authors: Karlsson J. Stefan , Roeleveld Karin , Grönlund Christer , Holtermann Andreas , Östlund Nils
Published: October 2008

A surface electromyogram (sEMG) contains information about physiological and morphological characteristics of the active muscle and its neural strategies. Because the electrodes are situated on the skin above the muscle, the sEMG is an easily obtainable source of information. However, different combinations of physiological and morphological characteristics can lead to similar sEMG signals and sEMG recordings contain noise and other artefacts. Therefore, many sEMG signal processing methods have been developed and applied to allow insight into neuromuscular physiology. This paper gives an overview of important advances in the development and applications of sEMG signal processing methods, including spectral estimation, higher order statistics and spatio-temporal processing. These methods provide information about muscle activation dynamics and muscle fatigue, as well as characteristics and control of single motor units (conduction velocity, firing rate, amplitude distribution and synchronization).
Impaired myelopoiesis in mice lacking the repressors of translation initiation, 4E‐BP1 and 4E‐BP2
Authors: Olson Katie E. , Booth Garrett C. , Poulin Francis , Sonenberg Nahum , Beretta Laura
Published: October 2008

We investigated the role of two repressors of translation initiation in granulocytic differentiation using mice with a null mutation in the 4E‐BP1 gene or with a null mutation in the 4E‐BP2 gene. We show that 4E‐BP1−/− and 4E‐BP2−/− mice exhibit an increased number of immature granulocytic precursors, associated with a decreased number of mature granulocytic elements compared with wild‐type mice, which is suggestive of an impaired granulocytic differentiation. Clonogenetic analyses revealed a reduced number of granulocytic colonies and concomitant increase in granulo‐monocytic colonies in 4E‐BP−/− mice. Finally, a slight expansion of monocytic cells was observed in the 4E‐BP2−/− mice. In contrast, we did not observe any significant difference in thymocyte maturation in these mice. These results, together with the fact that 4E‐BPs are markedly induced during granulo‐monocytic differentiation of myeloid cells in vitro, highlight the pivotal role of 4E‐BP1 and 4E‐BP2 in the early phases of myelopoiesis. These results represent the first in vivo evidence of the involvement of translation in the early phases of granulo‐monocytic differentiation and further extend the role of translation in haematopoietic differentiation.
Effects of smoke, heat, darkness and cold stratification on seed germination of 40 species in a cool temperate zone in northern Japan
Authors: Tsuyuzaki S. , Miyoshi C.
Published: October 2008

The effects of smoke, heat, darkness and cold stratification on seed germination were examined for 40 species with various life history attributes. These species establish in early successional stages on a volcano and are distributed in cool temperate zones of northern Japan. Smoke decreased seed germination in 11 species and increased it in one species, Leucothoe grayana. Germination of Polygonum longisetum was enhanced by a combination of smoke and cold, and that of Aralia elata by smoke and heat. Heat increased germination for three species and decreased it for one. Cold stratification broke dormancy in seeds of 11 species. Continuous darkness decreased germination of 22 species and did not increase germination for any species, showing that approximately half of the species require light for maximum germination. Although most species are sun plants that establish in early stages of succession and/or in disturbed areas, smoke and heat do not enhance germination of these species after disturbance, even when the disturbance is fire. Germination of slender and/or large seeds tends to be decreased more by smoke, probably because of their larger surface area. Light is more important than smoke and heat for detection of disturbance and for seed germination in this region. However, despite the low fire frequency in the region, germination of a few species was increased by fire‐derived stimuli.
Scheduling activities at oil wells with resource displacement
Authors: Moura Arnaldo V. , Pereira Romulo A. , De Souza Cid C.
Published: October 2008

Before promising locations at petroliferous basins become productive oil wells, it is necessary to complete development activities at these locations. The scheduling of such activities must satisfy several conflicting constraints and attain a number of goals. Moreover, resource displacements between wells are important and must also be taken into account. The problem is NP‐hard, as can be seen by a simple poly‐time reduction from the Job Shop problem. This paper describes Greedy Randomized Adaptive Search Procedures (GRASPs) for the scheduling of oil well development activities with resource displacement. The heuristics were tested on real instances from a major oil company, recognized for its expertise in offshore oil exploration. Computational experiments over real instances revealed that the GRASP implementations are competitive, outperforming the software currently being used by the company.
Algorithms for the circular two‐dimensional open dimension problem
Authors: Akeb Hakim , Hifi Mhand
Published: October 2008

In this paper, we propose three heuristics for the circular two‐dimensional open dimension problem, also known as the circular strip cutting/packing problem. We first propose an open strip generation solution procedure that uses the best local position rule into the open strip. Second, we propose a simple augmented version of the first heuristic by introducing an exchange‐order strategy. Third, we propose a hybrid heuristic that combines beam search and a series of target values belonging to a predetermined interval search. We evaluate the performance of these heuristics on several instances varying from small to large ones. Encouraging results have been obtained.
Alcohol Availability and Intimate Partner Violence Among US Couples
Authors: McKinney Christy M. , Caetano Raul , Harris Theodore Robert , Ebama Malembe S.
Published: October 2008

Objectives:  We examined the relation between alcohol outlet density (the number of alcohol outlets per capita by zip code) and male‐to‐female partner violence (MFPV) or female‐to‐male partner violence (FMPV). We also investigated whether binge drinking or the presence of alcohol‐related problems altered the relationship between alcohol outlet density and MFPV or FMPV.

Methods:  We linked individual and couple sociodemographic and behavioral data from a 1995 national population‐based sample of 1,597 couples to alcohol outlet data and 1990 US Census sociodemographic information. We used logistic regression for survey data to estimate unadjusted and adjusted odds ratios between alcohol outlet density and MFPV or FMPV along with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and p‐values. We used a design‐based Wald test to derive a p‐value for multiplicative interaction to assess the role of binge drinking and alcohol‐related problems.

Results:  In adjusted analysis, an increase of one alcohol outlet per 10,000 persons was associated with a 1.03‐fold increased risk of MFPV (p‐value for linear trend = 0.01) and a 1.011‐fold increased risk of FMPV (p‐value for linear trend = 0.48). An increase of 10 alcohol outlets per 10,000 persons was associated with 34% and 12% increased risk of MFPV and FMPV respectively, though the CI for the association with FMPV was compatible with no increased risk. The relationship between alcohol outlet density and MFPV was stronger among couples reporting alcohol‐related problems than those reporting no problems (p‐value for multiplicative interaction = 0.01).

Conclusions:  We found that as alcohol outlet density increases so does the risk of MFPV and that this relationship may differ for couples who do and do not report alcohol‐related problems. Given that MFPV accounts for the majority of injuries related to intimate partner violence, policy makers may wish to carefully consider the potential benefit of limiting alcohol outlet density to reduce MFPV and its adverse consequences.
Effects of Intrapericardial Sotalol and Flecainide on Transmural Atrial Electrophysiology and Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: VAN BRAKEL THOMAS J. , HERMANS JJ ROB , ACCORD RYAN E. , SCHOTTEN ULRICH , SMITS JOS FM. , ALLESSIE MAURITS A. , MAESSEN JOS G.
Published: October 2008

Introduction:Intrapericardial (IPC) delivery of antiarrhythmic agents is an appealing idea to increase the therapeutic width and reduce side effects of drugs, particularly in the thin atria. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of IPC versus intravenous (IV) d,l‐sotalol and flecainide infusion on transmural atrial electrophysiology and sustained atrial fibrillation (AF) in the goat.

Methods and Results:Effects of IPC and IV sotalol and flecainide infusion on epi‐ and endocardial atrial electrophysiology, ECG, and tissue drug concentrations were studied in goats without and with persistent AF (>24 hours). Epicardial atrial refractory period (AERP, bcl 400 ms) increased after 120 minutes of 1 mg/kg/hour IPC sotalol with 61 ± 8 ms (P = 0.02), whereas the endocardial AERP was not affected. One mg/kg/hour IPC flecainide increased the epicardial pacing threshold and the epicardial AERP with 4 ± 0.5 mA (P = 0.003) and 33 ± 11 ms (P = 0.05), respectively. Endocardial values were unchanged. Marked ST‐elevations in the precordial ECG leads were observed after IPC flecainide. In the AF group, IPC drugs did not prolong AF cycle length to a greater extent than IV delivery. The number of cardioversions was not different between the two delivery routes. A steep transmural drug concentration gradient after IPC sotalol and flecainide was observed in all heart chambers.

Conclusion:IPC sotalol and flecainide infusion in goats markedly affects epicardial atrial electrophysiology. IPC delivery, however, does not prolong AFCL or terminate AF to a greater extent than IV infusion. This suggests that the perpetuation of AF is not dominated by the epicardial and sub epicardial atrial layers.
Electrophysiologic Characteristics of Complex Fractionated Atrial Electrograms in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: PARK JAE H. , PAK HUI‐NAM , KIM SOOK K. , JANG JIN K. , CHOI JONG I. , LIM HONG E. , HWANG CHUN , KIM YOUNG‐HOON
Published: October 2008

Mechanisms of CFAE. Introduction: The underlying mechanisms of complex fractionated atrial electrogram (CFAE) during radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) of atrial fibrillation (AF) have not yet been clearly elucidated. We explored the relationships between CFAE and left atrial (LA) voltage, or conduction velocity (CV).

Methods and Results:
In 50 patients with AF (23 paroxysmal AF [PAF], 41 males, mean age 55.76 ± 10.16 years), the CFAE (average index of fractionation of electrograms during AF by interval‐analysis algorithm, cycle length [CL]≤ 120 ms) areas, voltage, and CV were measured at eight different quadrants in each patient's LA by analyzing a NavX‐guided, color‐coded CFAE CL map, a voltage map, and an isochronal map (500 ms pacing) generated by contact bipolar electrograms (70–100 points in the LA). The results were: (1) CFAE areas were predominantly located in the septum, roof, and LA appendage; (2) CFAE area had lower voltage than those in non‐CFAE area and was surrounded by the areas of high voltage (P < 0.0001); (3) The CFAE areas had low CVs compared with non‐CFAE areas (P < 0.001); and (4) The percentage of CFAE area was lower in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation (PeAF) compared with those with PAF (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:
The CFAE area, which is primarily located at the septum, has a low voltage with a lower CV, and is surrounded by high‐voltage areas. Underlying electroanatomical complexity is associated with clustering of CFAEs. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 20, pp. 266‐272, March 2009)
Emergency Department Crowding and Decreased Quality of Pain Care
Authors: Hwang Ula , Richardson Lynne , Livote Elayne , Harris Ben , Spencer Natasha , Sean Morrison R.
Published: October 2008

Objectives:  The objective of this study was to evaluate the association of emergency department (ED) crowding factors with the quality of pain care.

Methods:  This was a retrospective observational study of all adult patients (≥18 years) with conditions warranting pain care seen at an academic, urban, tertiary care ED from July 1 to July 31, 2005, and December 1 to December 31, 2005. Patients were included if they presented with a chief complaint of pain and a final ED diagnosis of a painful condition. Predictor ED crowding variables studied were 1) census, 2) number of admitted patients waiting for inpatient beds (boarders), and 3) number of boarders divided by ED census (boarding burden). The outcomes of interest were process of pain care measures: documentation of clinician pain assessment, medications ordered, and times of activities (e.g., arrival, assessment, ordering of medications).

Results:  A total of 1,068 patient visits were reviewed. Fewer patients received analgesic medication during periods of high census (>50th percentile; parameter estimate = –0.47; 95% confidence interval [CI] = –0.80 to –0.07). There was a direct correlation with total ED census and increased time to pain assessment (Spearman r = 0.33, p < 0.0001), time to analgesic medication ordering (r = 0.22, p < 0.0001), and time to analgesic medication administration (r = 0.25, p < 0.0001). There were significant delays (>1 hour) for pain assessment and the ordering and administration of analgesic medication during periods of high ED census and number of boarders, but not with boarding burden.

Conclusions:  ED crowding as measured by patient volume negatively impacts patient care. Greater numbers of patients in the ED, whether as total census or number of boarders, were associated with worse pain care.
Postpartum management for gestational diabetes mellitus: Policy and practice implications
Authors: Kapustin Jane Faith
Published: October 2008

Purpose: The pathogenesis of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and insulin resistance, risk factors, links to diabetes following the pregnancy, and clinical practice recommendations for this population are reviewed. Economic implications and future research needs are included.

Data sources: Review of original studies and meta‐analyses from Medline, PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane Library Online, and other scientific and public health literature; personal clinical experience with the population and dissertation research with women who experience GDM.

Conclusions: GDM is a common condition experienced during pregnancy that is associated with long‐term maternal risks for the development of type 2 diabetes following the index pregnancy. For the woman with GDM, the trajectory of diabetes development can often be prevented or postponed with comprehensive education and lifestyle changes, but there is evidence to suggest that preventive efforts directed at this population can be improved. Because the prevalence of type 2 diabetes and glucose intolerance as well as the costs of treatment of these disorders are escalating in the United States, attention should be focused on this vulnerable population.

Implications: Nurse practitioners need to be cognizant of the risks for diabetes and should follow clinical practice recommendations for routine screening and implementing preventive strategies for women who experience GDM. Office reminder systems such as standardized documentation flow sheets and electronic medical records may assist with provider adherence to practice recommendations. Strict postpartum screening and management may help reduce risks for developing diabetes in this vulnerable population.
An unusual cause of knee pain discovered at a nurse practitioner clinic
Authors: Heins Janet Kaye , Heins Alan
Published: October 2008

Purpose: To describe an interesting and instructive case of knee pain from nurse practitioner (NP) practice and discuss the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical evaluation, and treatment of osteosarcoma.

Data sources: Findings from the history, physical examination, diagnostic testing, and follow‐up of the case of an 18‐year‐old male who first presented with nontraumatic, diffuse left knee pain of 2.5‐month duration.

Conclusions: At follow‐up, after a trial of conservative treatment, a lesion suspicious for osteosarcoma was seen in the proximal tibia. Osteosarcoma is a rare but dangerous cause of chronic extremity pain, especially in children and adolescents.

Implications for practice: NPs must consider malignant bone tumors in the differential diagnosis of traumatic and nontraumatic extremity pain of extended duration, especially in children and adolescents. Thorough, persistent follow‐up on recommended tests and referrals is necessary to ensure that important findings are not missed. The care of uninsured patients requires particular attention to cost concerns and access issues.
Blood cultures for febrile patients in the acute care setting: Too quick on the draw?
Authors: Chesnutt Barbara K. , Zamora Martin R. , Kleinpell Ruth M.
Published: October 2008

Purpose:To review the fever literature and determine how 38.3°C was deemed the optimal fever threshold that predicts bacteremia.

Data sources:PubMed, MEDLINE, Cochrane database, and the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health.

Conclusions:A temperature of 38.3°C has come to be the threshold value that typically triggers diagnostic fever evaluation for bacteremia in hospitalized patients. Studies that define predictors of bacteremia provide conflicting results, and most bacteremia predictor models have not been externally validated. Therefore, current fever guidelines are based on consensus opinion rather than large clinical trials identifying a specific threshold with high sensitivity and a high negative predictive value.

Implications for practice:The use of a single temperature threshold of 38.3°C for the prediction of bacteremia is not sufficient in all patients. Additional factors should be considered, including patient population, supporting clinical signs and symptoms, and the patient’s medical history.
High Harmonic Generation from Multiple Orbitals in N
2
Authors: McFarland Brian K. , Farrell Joseph P. , Bucksbaum Philip H. , Gühr Markus
Published: October 2008

Molecular electronic states energetically below the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) should contribute to laser-driven high harmonic generation (HHG), but this behavior has not been observed previously. Our measurements of the HHG spectrum of N
2
molecules aligned perpendicular to the laser polarization showed a maximum at the rotational half-revival. This feature indicates the influence of electrons occupying the orbital just below the N
2
HOMO, referred to as the HOMO-1. Such observations of lower-lying orbitals are essential to understanding subfemtosecond/subangstrom electronic motion in laser-excited molecules.
Time-Resolved Dynamics in N
2
O
4
Probed Using High Harmonic Generation
Authors: Li Wen , Zhou Xibin , Lock Robynne , Patchkovskii Serguei , Stolow Albert , Kapteyn Henry C. , Murnane Margaret M.
Published: October 2008

The attosecond time-scale electron-recollision process that underlies high harmonic generation has uncovered extremely rapid electronic dynamics in atoms and diatomics. We showed that high harmonic generation can reveal coupled electronic and nuclear dynamics in polyatomic molecules. By exciting large amplitude vibrations in dinitrogen tetraoxide, we showed that tunnel ionization accesses the ground state of the ion at the outer turning point of the vibration but populates the first excited state at the inner turning point. This state-switching mechanism is manifested as bursts of high harmonic light that is emitted mostly at the outer turning point. Theoretical calculations attribute the large modulation to suppressed emission from the first excited state of the ion. More broadly, these results show that high harmonic generation and strong-field ionization in polyatomic molecules undergoing bonding or configurational changes involve the participation of multiple molecular orbitals.
Bat White-Nose Syndrome: An Emerging Fungal Pathogen?
Authors: Blehert David S. , Hicks Alan C. , Behr Melissa , Meteyer Carol U. , Berlowski-Zier Brenda M. , Buckles Elizabeth L. , Coleman Jeremy T. H. , Darling Scott R. , Gargas Andrea , Niver Robyn , Okoniewski Joseph C. , Rudd Robert J. , Stone Ward B.
Published: October 2008

White-nose syndrome (WNS) is a condition associated with an unprecedented bat mortality event in the northeastern United States. Since the winter of 2006*2007, bat declines exceeding 75% have been observed at surveyed hibernacula. Affected bats often present with visually striking white fungal growth on their muzzles, ears, and/or wing membranes. Direct microscopy and culture analyses demonstrated that the skin of WNS-affected bats is colonized by a psychro-philic fungus that is phylogenetically related to Geomyces spp. but with a conidial morphology distinct from characterized members of this genus. This report characterizes the cutaneous fungal infection associated with WNS.
Effect of aminophylline on brain stem auditory evoked potentials in preterm infants.
Authors: Chen Y J , Liou C S , Tsai C H , Yeh T F
Published: October 2008

To determine the neurophysiological effects of aminophylline on apnoea of prematurity, the brain stem auditory evoked potentials (BAEPs) of 30 apnoeic infants and 34 age matched controls were evaluated and compared. After six days of treatment with aminophylline, the brain stem conduction time (interpeak latency of I-V) in apnoeic infants decreased compared with controls of a similar postconceptional age. The mean latencies of the peaks and interpeaks of all waves except wave I were significantly lower in the apnoeic infants after than before receiving aminophylline. No significant differences were found in the latencies of BAEPs between the apnoeic infants who responded and those who did not respond to aminophylline treatment, however. These results suggest that aminophylline may enhance conduction along central auditory pathways and stimulate the regulatory effect on the respiratory centre of the brain stem.
Concentrations of vitamins A and E in amniotic fluid, extraembryonic coelomic fluid, and maternal serum in the first trimester of pregnancy.
Authors: Campbell J , Wathen N C , Merryweather I , Abbott R , Muller D , Chard T
Published: October 2008

Paired samples of amniotic fluid and coelomic fluid were obtained by transvaginal ultrasound guided amniocentesis from 15 women with an ultrasonographically normal pregnancy between 8 and 12 weeks' gestation. Vitamins A and E were measured in the two pregnancy fluids and in maternal serum by high performance liquid chromatography with detection by ultraviolet absorption and fluorimetry respectively. Concentrations of vitamins A and E were higher in maternal serum than in coelomic fluid and were generally undetectable in amniotic fluid. All differences in concentration were significant. The vitamin E/cholesterol ratio was similar in maternal serum and coelomic fluid. No correlation was shown between the vitamin concentrations in the three fluids. These findings suggest that the coelomic cavity plays a part in the maternofetal exchange of these vitamins.
A new peroxisomal disorder with fetal and neonatal adrenal insufficiency.
Authors: Vanhole C , de Zegher F , Casaer P , Devlieger H , Wanders R J , Vanhove G , Jaeken J
Published: October 2008

A boy with a new type of adrenoleukodystrophy is described. This was characterised by fetal and neonatal adrenal insufficiency, a neurological picture as seen in neonatal adrenoleukodystrophy, but with a normal number of peroxisomes in the liver and a peroxisomal dysfunction limited to the very long chain fatty acids and pristanic acid.
Neonatal and maternal platelet cytosolic calcium in normotensive and hypertensive pregnancies.
Authors: Kilby M D , Broughton Pipkin F , Symonds E M
Published: October 2008

A prospective study investigated platelet cytosolic calcium in non-pregnant volunteers (n = 30) and samples from the umbilical veins of babies from both normotensive (n = 18) and hypertensive (n = 15) primigravidae, and their mothers. There was no significant difference between the neonatal umbilical venous platelet cytosolic calcium concentration (p[Ca2+]i) in babies born to normotensive primigravidae or to those whose pregnancies were complicated by gestational hypertension (88 x 9 (SE) 2 x 5) in normotensive primagravidae, 80 x 6 (2 x 8) in pregnancy induced hypertension without proteinuria, and 89 x 3 (3 x 2) nmol/l in pre-eclampsia. There was also no significant difference in the p[Ca2+]i from the umbilical veins of the pregnancies studied and those of non-pregnant female volunteers in the follicular phase of their menstrual cycle. This was despite a gradual and significant rise in p[Ca2+]i with increasing severity of disease in the mothers of the babies studied (119 x 9 (4 x 1) in normotensive primagravidae, 130 x 8 (7 x 3) in pregnancy induced hypertension without proteinuria, and 148 x 2 (4 x 5 ) nmol/l in pre-eclampsia). The mean maternal p[Ca2+]i in the three samples returned to concentrations comparable with those in non-pregnant subjects by 12 weeks after birth. These data demonstrate no significant difference between the mean p[Ca2+]i in non-pregnant women and those obtained from the umbilical venous blood of normotensive or hypertensive primigravidae. They suggest that the functional hypoactivity of neonatal platelets is probably not secondary to a decrease in basal p[Ca2+]i. They also suggest that the progressively raised p[Ca2+]i in normal and hypertensive pregnancies might be due to a pregnancy specific factor that does not cross the placenta,
Marine geophysical measurements on the continental margins of the Labrador Sea
Authors: Mayhew Michael A. , Drake Charles L. , Nafe John E.
Published: October 2008

Seismic refraction and magnetic data from the continental margins of Labrador and south Greenland are interpreted in relation to knowledge of onshore geology.Two high-velocity seismic layers are measured on the inner part of the continental shelf off northeast Labrador. These are tentatively correlated with Precambrian crystalline rock onshore. There is no evidence that Paleozoic rock is present offshore. No obvious expression of the Grenville front is seen in the seismic results.Two sediment layers of variable thickness overlie the two high-velocity layers, and have accumulated to as much as 2 km total thickness in some localities.The crustal structure of the Labrador basin is interpreted to extend beneath the outer part of the Labrador shelf. No evidence is found from the seismic refraction measurements for fault-control of the marginal channels on the Labrador shelf. Where observed, they appear to be erosional in nature.Considerable relief is present in the high-velocity basement rock beneath the south Greenland slope. It appears to outcrop halfway down the slope.
The Mid-Atlantic ridge near 45° N. VII. Magnetic properties and opaque mineralogy of dredged samples
Authors: Carmichael C. M.
Published: October 2008

Measurements of the magnetic properties, paleomagnetic field intensity, and the inferred paleomagnetic field polarity have been made using fine grained basalt and coarser grained rock samples dredged from the mid-Atlantic ridge near 45° N and supplied by the Geological Survey of Canada. The opaque mineralogy of the samples was studied by microscope, Curie point, and X-ray diffraction techniques. The natural remanent magnetization of the basalt is of the order of 5 to 10 × 10−3 e.m.u./cm3 with some values from the center of the median valley reaching 10−1 e.m.u./cm3. Magnetic anomalies over the ridge can be accounted for by the remanent magnetization of a few hundred meters of this basalt. The coarse grained rocks were relatively weakly magnetized, and while they contribute little to the magnetic anomalies, their diverse character suggests that the major portion of the oceanic crust, below a thin veneer of fine grained basalt, has differentiated into a complex structure.
The Mid-Atlantic Ridge near 45° N. IX. Thermomagnetics of dredged samples of igneous rocks
Authors: Schaeffer R. M. , Schwarz E. J.
Published: October 2008

The thermomagnetic properties of 15 basalts dredged from the Mid-Atlantic Ridge near 45° N were studied in air at low pressure. One of the samples was used for detailed optical, X-ray diffraction, and electron microprobe studies. The Curie point and the cell edge of the original ferromagnetic constituents indicate the presence of titanomagnetite with Fe to Ti ratios of about 4.6. This was corroborated by electron microprobe results. During heating up to 550 °C, the Curie point and the saturation magnetization increased gradually while the cell edge decreased. This suggests that the titanomagnetite was oxidized to titanomaghemite. After heating above 600 °C, a Curie point at −20 °C was observed while the saturation magnetization decreased. This may be considered as the result of an exsolution of a titanium-rich phase and a transition of maghemite to hematite. The thermomagnetic properties do not seem to be related with the pattern of alternating magnetic anomalies. However, the increase in Curie point with distance from the ridge suggests natural oxidation. Consequently, a part of the original TRM appears to have been replaced by CRM components, which cancelled out one another as they were acquired in periods of different geomagnetic polarity. This decay of the TRM offers an explanation for the decreasing intensity of the magnetic anomalies with distance from the axis.
A reinterpretation of stylolitic solution surfaces deduced from carbonate cores from San Pablo Seamount and the Mid-Atlantic Ridge
Authors: Bartlett Grant A. , Greggs Robert G.
Published: October 2008

Processes associated with deep sea carbonate lithification suggest an alternative mechanism, other than pressure–solution, for the formation of stylolites. Stylolites may also be formed by submarine solutional erosion following lithification, oxidation of the eroded surface, and renewal of carbonate deposition. This process is responsible for removing significant quantities of carbonate sediment in the marine environment without exposure to subaerial agencies.
Seismic studies in the region adjacent to the Grand Banks of Newfoundland
Authors: Watson Jerry A. , Johnson G. Leonard
Published: October 2008

A detailed survey by Texas Instruments Incorporated under contract to the United States Naval Oceanographic Office in the vicinity of the Southeast Newfoundland Ridge suggests that this ridge is structurally controlled and related to the northern extent of the Jurassic Atlantic basin. Possible salt diapirs were found in the Sohm Abyssal Plain and lower continental rise. Evidence of formerly greater bottom current activity in the region is suggested by the presence of buried abyssal anti-dunes.
Seismic refraction surveys, western Queen Elizabeth Islands and Polar continental margin
Authors: Overton A.
Published: October 2008

The Arctic seismic program of 1964 and 1965 comprised two refraction profiles between Prince Patrick Island and Melville Island, and one refraction profile extending 192 km onto the ocean northwest of Brock Island. Numerous intermediate layer (P1) and upper mantle (Pn) events were also recorded on paths not confined to the profiles, thus allowing a "time-term" analysis for these events.High-velocity layers within the sedimentary section cause a velocity inversion problem, whereby the lower velocity and depth of the underlying basement complex is not revealed by the seismic refraction method. The bottom of the basement complex is marked by the intermediate layer having a compressional wave velocity of about 6.25 km/s and depths near 10 km.Velocity of Pn events is 8.18 km/s and these were recorded near the critical distance at one station, providing an estimate of the time-term to depth conversion factor of 9.56 km/s. Pn events traversing Eglinton Island and the west coast of Melville Island show excess times of 0.6 s to 3 s. This region of apparently low mantle velocity may be related to the geomagnetic variation anomaly reported near by.The average time-term of 3.67 s represents an average crustal thickness of 35 km. Some variation in crustal time-terms is caused by differing thicknesses of low velocity sediments rather than undulations on the crust–mantle interface. The time-term of 3.07 s for the most distant shot on the ocean profile does not, by itself, suggest a thinner crust than similar values among the islands; this is shown to be a possible interpretation problem.A negative correlation between crustal time-terms and Bouguer gravity values is noted to be partly due to the effect of varying proportions of low-velocity – low-density rocks and high-velocity – high-density rocks within a few km of depth.
Pliensbachian Ammonoids from British Columbia and southern Yukon
Authors: Frebold Hans
Published: October 2008

Pliensbachian ammonite faunas recorded from British Columbia and southern Yukon contain Crucilobiceras, Phricodoceras, Uptonia, Platypleuroceras?, Acanthopleuroceras, Tropidoceras, Becheiceras, Amaltheus, Pleuroceras?, Prodactylioceras, Dactylioceras?, Arieticeras, Leptaleoceras, and Paltarpites. They indicate the presence of all of the Pliensbachian ammonite zones and most subzones of the northwest European standard section. However, in no single area of western Canada has such a complete succession been established.
Computer experiments on mechanics of finite amplitude folds
Authors: Dieterich James H.
Published: October 2008

Computer simulation of the time-dependent deformations of layered viscous solids serves as the basis of a study of the mechanics of large-amplitude folds. Several models of a single viscous layer embedded in a less viscous matrix and a model of an infinite stack of layers of alternating viscosity have been studied. This study treats the plane finite deformations of the models as a series of small incremental deformations. The velocity fields of the incremental problems are found using the finite element method. With the single-layer models, the contrast of viscosity between the layer and matrix strongly influences the geometry of folds at the dominant wavelength. Fold geometries vary from concentric for large viscosity contrasts to nearly similar for low contrasts. In each model, the patterns given by directions perpendicular to the principal axes of maximum total compressive strain closely resemble axial-plane foliations in natural folds. Published fabric data for calcite-twin lamellae and quartz-deformation lamellae are consistent with stress directions in the theoretical models and support an interpretation that these fabric data record cumulative-intragranular flow during the course of folding.
Deformation textures in tectonites
Authors: Stauffer Mel R.
Published: October 2008

A variety of deformation textures may be present in low temperature tectonites that have not been modified extensively by post-deformational recrystallization. These include gross grain shape, granular, breccia, pull-apart, strain-shadow, goatee, and shear-step textures. A study of these textures will reveal the behavior of the rock during deformation, specifically: (a) whether deformation took place under conditions of high or low intergranular cohesion, and (b) the relative importance of crystallographic gliding and intergranular movement between grains.No study of deformed rocks is complete without a strain analysis. Strain analyses should include grain shapes, as well as description and interpretation of the various deformation textures.
Interpretation of gravity anomalies of dike-like bodies by Fourier transformation
Authors: Sharma Bijon , Geldart L. P. , Gill D. E.
Published: October 2008

An objective method is presented for interpreting the gravity anomalies of a dike using the Fourier transform of the observed gravity anomaly function. The amplitude spectrum of the transformed function contains information about the depth, inclination, and the thickness of the dike. The usefulness of the Fourier transform technique is illustrated by a detailed analysis of the gravity anomaly of a dike.
Anisotropic apparent resistivities arising from non-homogeneous, two-dimensional structures
Authors: Wright J. A.
Published: October 2008

Variations in the electric and magnetic fields are calculated for a non-homogeneous, two dimensional structure representing a sediment-filled graben surrounded by crystalline rocks. The apparent resistivities calculated along the cross-section profile for the electric field parallel (ρE) and perpendicular (ρH) to the strike are anisotropic. The two apparent resistivities, ρE and ρH, at a given point outside the graben, parallel each other over a broad range of periods. They do not show a convergence at long periods. Thus, it is not necessarily an indication of non-homogeneity at depth, when ρE and ρH are different at long periods. In this case, the apparent resistivity anisotropy is caused by a near-surface distortion of telluric currents. Although the ρE data are less disturbed by the non-homogeneity, it does not seem justified to interpret the ρE data in terms of Cagniard models.
Improved positioning of dredges on the sea floor
Authors: Aumento F.
Published: October 2008

The locations from which dredges obtain samples of rocks on the sea floor can be computed with considerable accuracy using a system of moored radar transponder buoys, a precision timed pinger, a bathykymograph, and a load cell.
Pollen-bearing sediments of the St. Davids buried valley fill at the Whirlpool, Niagara River gorge, Ontario
Authors: Karrow P. F. , Terasmae J.
Published: October 2008

Continued studies of the buried St. Davids gorge, an ancient valley of the Niagara River, have indicated that the upper part of this gorge was filled in mid-Wisconsinan time and later. Lacustrine sediments dated at 23 000 years B.P. were deposited in the gorge when the late Wisconsinan ice caused the water level to rise in the Lake Ontario basin by blocking the eastern outlet, prior to over riding the Niagara area. Palynological studies support the correlation of the dated lacustrine deposits in the gorge with the Plum Point Interstade of southern Ontario.
A teiid lizard jaw from the Cretaceous of Alberta, Canada
Authors: Waldman M.
Published: October 2008

The right mandibular ramus of a lizard from the Oldman Formation (Late Campanian: Upper Cretaceous) of Alberta is described. The specimen is ascribed to the suborder Scincomorpha, family Teiidae, and is placed in the genus Chamops, being closely allied to Chamops segnis from the Lance Formation (Maestrichtian). No specific identification is given, as the dentition is insufficiently well-preserved for this purpose. The specimen is believed to have formed part of the faeces of a crocodile of the genus Leidyosuchus.
Cryptalgal structures in the Detroit River Group (Devonian), Southwestern Ontario
Authors: Fagerstrom J. A.
Published: October 2008

Four principle morphologic forms of cryptalgal structures are present in the dolomite rocks of the Detroit River Group in southwestern Ontario: domal stromatolites, polygonal stromatolites, and two types of cryptalgalaminate structures. These features in association with birdseye structures and molds of evaporite crystals strongly suggest that the rocks were deposited between the upper subtidal and lower supratidal zones of a hypersaline sea in the Michigan Basin.
Volcanism and its relationship to recent crustal movements in the Canadian Cordillera
Authors: Souther J. G.
Published: October 2008

"Compressive" folding, thrusting, and transcurrent fault movement have occurred during late Tertiary and Recent times in parts of southeastern Alaska and southern Yukon west of a line joining the Denali, Queen Charlotte, and San Andreas fault systems. East of this line "compressive" deformation and transcurrent faulting ceased in the Canadian Cordillera by late Eocene time or earlier, and was followed by a period of crustal relaxation that has continued to the present. The onset of relaxation was accompanied by acid volcanism, block faulting, and high-level intrusion of granitic plutons and dike swarms. Explosive eruptions that characterized early Tertiary volcanism were followed in late Miocene and Pliocene times by quiet outpouring of plateau basalt in central British Columbia and later, during Pleistocene and Recent times, by construction of nearly 150 cinder cones and strata volcanoes. Most of these young volcanic centers are confined to two north-south trending belts and an east–west belt offsetting them. The two north–south belts parallel the direction of post Eocene dike swarms and normal faults, and are considered to have formed in response to east–west regional extension that has persisted in the western Canadian Cordillera since late Eocene time.
Today's topography and tectonics in northeastern Canada
Authors: Kerr J. Wm.
Published: October 2008

Overall shapes of lands and seas in northeastern Canada are the result of tectonic events that were part of continental drift. Breakup of this region began as early as Late Cretaceous time, and continued to post-Oligocene or post-Miocene time. Structural lows formed seaways and structural highs formed islands. Crustal thinning beneath the seaways produced isostatic arching that was broader than the seaways and elevated the margins of lands. The initiating tectonic processes have ceased in this region, but the pattern persists today.Distribution of glaciers on Baffin Island and Greenland is such that a narrow high coastal belt separates the glaciers from the seas. This pattern is probably due to isostatic forces resulting from crustal thinning as Baffin Island and Greenland drifted apart. It is suggested that Greenland is surrounded by high land and has an interior ice-filled basin, mainly because it is surrounded by rifted coasts on which this process of crustal thinning and isostatic compensation occurred.A similar pattern of seaward highs exists along the rifted north coast of Eurasia. Regions where this occurs include Scandinavia, Spitsbergen, and the northern coasts of Siberia and Novaya Zemlya.
Canadian seismicity and microearthquake research in Canada
Authors: Milne W. G. , Smith W. E. T. , Rogers G. C.
Published: October 2008

There have been earthquakes of magnitude M ≥ 7 south of Newfoundland, in the St. Lawrence Valley below Quebec City, in the Queen Charlotte Islands, along the coast of Vancouver Island, and in the Canadian Arctic. Shocks of magnitude 5 ≤ M < 7 and minor seismic activity have occurred in all of these areas and also in the Ottawa Valley. None were accompanied by surface faulting and there seems to be no obvious connection with vertical crustal movements. East of 85 °W and west of 113° W, the seismic history has been used to define zones of seismic risk for the areal distribution of aseismic design recommended in the National Building Code.In 1968, three high-frequency, high gain seismographs were operated for six weeks in a large area north and east of Quebec City where precise levelling had disclosed differential vertical movement of about 1.25 ft (~0.38 m) per century. Few microearthquakes were observed. During three months of similar monitoring near Mount Edziza, B.C., only about 20 small earthquakes originated near the volcano, but approximately 8000 shocks with M ≤ 3 occurred west of the Stikine River near the Alaskan border. Only further research will establish whether microearthquake studies can give a useful measure of Canadian seismicity.