bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Charcoal fragments of Alpine soils as an indicator of landscape evolution during the Holocene in Val di Sole (Trentino, Italy)
Authors: Favilli Filippo , Cherubini Paolo , Collenberg Martina , Egli Markus , Sartori Giacomo , Schoch Werner , Haeberli Wilfried
Published: November 2009

Subalpine and Alpine soils in Val di Sole (Trentino, Italy) have been investigated in order to reconstruct vegetation changes and human impact during the Holocene period. Archaeological findings have demonstrated that Alpine sites have been populated since pre-historical times. Humans have had a great impact on the natural landscape evolution. One of the most-used tools has been fire. The use of fire has enabled the landscape to be cleared to provide new pastures for grazing and also to allow it to be used for agricultural purposes. The 14C dating of charcoal fragments found in subalpine and Alpine soils provide information about the type of vegetation, fires, human impact and soil formation throughout the Holocene. The degree of podzolisation indicates weathering effects and provides information about the stability of the surfaces. According to our results, a quick forest expansion establishment phase must have occurred shortly after the Lateglacial around 10 500 cal. BP. Pinus sylvestris, Pinus mugo as well as Larix decidua established in the investigation area in that period. Picea abies had not yet migrated into this region at the transition to the Boreal (around 9000 cal. BP). The vegetation of the investigated area has not substantially changed during the last 10 000 years. Pinus mugo was more widespread in some areas during the Older Atlanticum, and the treeline was about 150 m higher at the end of the Younger Dryas than today. Some other sites were most probably used as pasture during the Bronze Age and later abandoned, leading to a natural reforestation. In the investigated area 13 fire events in the past 10 700 years have been recognised, and seven of them can reasonably be attributed to human origin.
High frequency climate variability of the Norwegian Atlantic Current during the early Holocene period and a possible connection to the Gleissberg cycle
Authors: Berner K.S. , Koç N. , Godtliebsen F.
Published: November 2009

A high-resolution sediment core (MD95-2011) from the Vøring Plateau has been studied to document the variability of the surface water conditions during the Younger Dryas—Preboreal (13—9 kyr BP) in the eastern Norwegian Sea, in order to assess the climate variability in a period considered to be highly dynamic. Quantitative summer sea surface temperatures (SSSTs) with a time resolution of 20—40 years are reconstructed using three different diatom transfer function methods. The Younger Dryas—Preboreal transition at site MD95-2011 is documented with a temperature increase of 3.5°C/3°C within 100 years. Following, the record resolves for the first time PBO as two prominent cooling events centred at 11.2 and 11.3 kyr BP. In addition, a broad cooling event documented from 10.3—9.9 kyr BP coincides with previously documented climatic events as the 10.3 event and Erdalen Event 1 (10.1—9.9 kyr BP) and 2 (~9.7 kyr BP), respectively. Constrained by the observed SSST changes and diatom assemblages, short-term SSST changes with a periodicity of 80—120 years are observed, and the length of this period might indicate a possible connection to the solar Gleissberg cycle. The North Atlantic heat transport is highly sensitive to freshwater inputs, and the interplay of freshwater forcing with insolation forcing is considered as the controlling mechanism of climate changes at site MD05-2011 during the early Holocene. However, the century-scale variability of 80—120 years cannot explain the large-scale variability during the early Holocene, but is of importance for understanding the underlying small-scale oscillations.
FCGR3B copy number variation is not associated with lupus nephritis in a Chinese population
Authors: Lv J. , Yang Y. , Zhou X. , Yu L. , Li R. , Hou P. , Zhang H.
Published: November 2009

Copy number variation (CNV) is common in genomic regions encoding immune-related genes and can impact polygenic autoimmunity. FCGR3B CNV is associated with susceptibility to systemic autoimmunity in Caucasian populations. In this study, we examined FCGR3B CNV in patients with the autoimmune disease lupus nephritis (LN) in a Chinese population. The study includes 202 patients with histologically verified LN and 146 geographically matched healthy controls. To identify CNV at the FCGRB locus, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was done with TaqMan TM probes and relative copy number was estimated with relative quantitative 2—ΔΔCt method. The distribution of FCGR3B relative copy number did not differ significantly between the LN patients and the controls (1.17 ± 0.42 for LN; 1.15 ± 0.37 for controls; p = 0.627). The difference was still not significant when the data were stratified by gender. There was no significant difference when the LN patients were divided by pathological phenotype (proliferative LN compared with non-proliferative p = 0.511; AI < 12 compared with AI ≥ 12, p = 0.401; and chronicity index (CI) < 4 compared with CI ≥ 4, p = 0.058) or lupus disease activity index (SLEDAI ≤ 10 compared with SLEDAI > 10, p = 0.996). The data suggest that FCGR3B CNV was not associated with LN development or progression in this Chinese population. These results were surprising given the strong in a Caucasian population. Lupus (2010) 19, 158—161.
Lupus nephritis reoccurs following transplantation in the lupus prone mouse
Authors: Hamar P. , Wang M. , Godo M. , Kokeny G. , Rosivall L. , Ouyang N. , Heemann U.
Published: November 2009

The incidence and pathomechanism of recurrent lupus nephritis (RLN) after transplantation is not clearly understood. Burning out of the autoimmune process or local immunoregulatory mechanisms in the kidney may be responsible for the low incidence of recurrence. These mechanisms cannot be investigated in human subjects, due to post-transplant immunosuppression. To investigate the pathomechanisms of RLN, male and female kidneys were transplanted from FAS deficient lupus prone (LPR) or control (FAS intact) MRL mice into either LPR or MRL recipients. Urinary protein and blood urea were assessed. Double negative (DN) lymphocyte proliferation was determined by flow cytometry. Two months after transplantation inflammatory infiltration of the glomerular, vascular and interstitial compartments were determined. Renal function as demonstrated by blood urea levels was normal in MRL recipients, but elevated in LPR recipients, independent of the donor strain. Paralleling functional results, inflammatory infiltration was mild or absent in MRL recipients of MRL grafts, and mild to moderate in MRL recipients of LPR grafts, suggesting that kidney removal from the autoimmune (LPR) environment significantly reduced inflammation. Graft infiltration was most severe in LPR recipients: grafts were similarly inflamed independent of the donor. All LPR recipients had significantly less CD4+ Th cells versus MRL mice. Transplantation of LPR grafts into MRL recipients reduced CD4+ Th cell percentage, accompanied by a slight induction of lupus autoantibody production. Our results demonstrate that lupus nephritis is not kidney specific in the LPR model with recurrence after transplantation in the absence of immunosuppression. Lupus (2010) 19, 175—181.
Review: Male systemic lupus erythematosus: a review of sex disparities in this disease
Authors: Lu L-J. , Wallace DJ , Ishimori ML , Scofield RH , Weisman MH
Published: November 2009

Although males with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) represent 4—22% of all SLE patients, it may not be appropriate that these cases should be subordinated to females with SLE in terms of most health-related issues. Over the past few decades, some distinctive features of male lupus have been observed with regard to genetic and environmental aspects of sex differences, clinical features, and outcome. In addition, recent insights into sex disparities in this disease have brought forth a few plausible and novel pathogenetic hypotheses. This review discusses these findings and sex disparities in SLE that appear to be especially noteworthy and pertinent to our understanding of male SLE. Lupus (2010) 19, 119—129.
Paradoxical arrest in lupus activity in BXSB mice with highly autoreactive T cells
Authors: Stojakovic M. , Tatari-Calderone Z. , Maric C. , Hoang A. , Vukmanovic S.
Published: November 2009

T cells with high avidity for antigens are thought to mediate more effective immunity against foreign antigens and cause more severe autoimmunity. The impact of T cell receptor (TCR) avidity on the development of lupus has not been investigated. We took advantage of a transgenic mouse strain (designated MTB) that has a diverse T cell population and a globally stronger reactivity to self. [MTBxBXSB]F1 mice displayed accelerated lupus relative to the [WTxBXSB]F1 controls. The severity of lupus and the activation of T cells subsided with aging, when elevated IL-10 production by Tr1 cells was observed. Thus, chronic high avidity interactions of T cells with self-antigens can lead to an age associated increase in IL-10 production. This could explain the age-associated reduction of the incidence of lupus, as well as other autoimmune diseases. Furthermore, the principle of Tr1 differentiation based on diverse T cells with high avidity for self may potentially be used as a therapeutic strategy in the treatment of lupus. Lupus (2010) 19, 182—191.
SLE disease patterns in a Danish population-based lupus cohort: an 8-year prospective study
Authors: Laustrup H. , Voss A. , Green A. , Junker P.
Published: November 2009

In 1995 all systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients in the county of Funen were retrieved from four separate and independent sources as part of an 8-year prospective study to determine the pattern of disease activity and damage accumulation in a community based lupus cohort of predominantly Scandinavian ancestry. Incident cases were subsequently identified by surveillance of these sources. Established and new cases underwent annual, structured interviews, clinical examination and blood sampling. The Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Diseases Activity Index SLEDAI and Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics SLICC scores were calculated. Flares were defined as modified — SLEDAI ≥ 4.

The annual flare rate in definite SLE (D-SLE) was 0.21 (95%CI 0.18—0.24) versus 0.03 (95%CI 0.01—0.07) in incomplete SLE (I-SLE). Forty-three per cent of the entire study population had no disease exacerbations. Infections requiring hospital admission and thrombocytopenia were significantly more frequent among patients with relapsing disease (p < 0.04—0.01). Patients with flares had slightly shorter disease duration and were younger at disease onset than patients with a quiescent course. The most recently diagnosed patients had the lowest annual rate of damage accrual.

According to flare rate, two major subsets of almost equal size were identified — one having a long quiescent course, the other exhibiting relapses alternating with remissions. An increased risk of flares was associated with short disease duration and younger age at disease onset, infections requiring hospital admission and thrombocytopenia. Temporal damage increment was the lowest in the most recently diagnosed patients. Lupus (2010) 19, 239—246.
Thermal and Electroelastic Behavior of Piezocomposites and Inhomogeneous Piezoelectric Materials with Voids
Authors: Fakri N. , Azrar L.
Published: November 2009

This article presents an incremental self-consistent model that is used to optimize two kinds of thermoelectroelastic composites: polymer/ceramic and ceramic/void. The modeling is based on the heterogeneous inclusion problem of Eshelby, which leads to an expression for the strain−electric field relation by integral equations. The solution of these equations leads to expressions for electroelastic concentration tensors based on a micromechanical model. The overall thermal and electroelastic behavior of the composites considered can be estimated by means of these concentration tensors. An incremental self-consistent scheme is introduced that improves upon the classical self-consistent model for piezoelectric composites. Predictions using this scheme are compared to predictions based on the Mori−Tanaka and self-consistent models of the thermal and electroelastic behavior of inhomogeneous piezoelectric materials with and without void inclusions. The effects of poling direction and inclusion shape are discussed.
Stiffness Reduction in Laminates at High Intralaminar Crack Density: Effect of Crack Interaction
Authors: Lundmark Peter , Varna Janis
Published: November 2009

The previously developed closed form expressions for thermo-elastic properties of laminates with intralaminar cracks (Lundmark and Varna, 2005) contain crack surface opening and sliding as main local parameters. The dependence of these parameters on various material and geometrical characteristics was in (Lundmark and Varna, 2005) described by power functions valid only for noninteractive cracks in a given layer (low crack density). In this article the 90-layer crack interaction in terms of its effect on the crack opening displacement (COD) is discussed. The effect on COD is described by the introduced ‘interaction function’ which is determined fitting results of finite element (FE) analysis for cross-ply laminates. To simplify the application in stiffness predictions, the numerically found weak dependence of the interaction on geometrical and material parameters is neglected and the interaction function is presented as a function of crack density only. Using the interaction function to determine the COD, the previously developed calculation scheme (Lundmark and Varna, 2005) has been used to predict stiffness reduction in the entire crack density region. The results are validated comparing with tests and FE simulations.
Demonstration of the Vibration Control Performance of Coil Spring-viscous Damper Systems by Measuring the Vibration of an Emergency Diesel Generator
Authors: Min Kyu Kim  , Young Sun Choun  , Jeong Moon Seo
Published: November 2009

The purpose of this study is to evaluate vibration characteristics according to the foundation type of an emergency diesel generator (EDG) of a nuclear power plant (NPP). For the purpose of this study, EDGs whose types are the same but whose foundation types are different were selected and measured for their operational vibrations. The target EDG systems were located in Yonggwang unit 5 and Ulchin unit 3 in Korea. Both EDG systems are the 16PC2—5V400 model type which was manufactured by the SEMT Pielstick corporation. The foundation systems of the Yonggwang 5 and Ulchin 3 units were an anchor bolt system and a Coil Spring-Viscous Damper system, respectively. The vibrations were measured in the case of before and during an operation for the two kinds of EDG system. A total of eight accelerometers were used for the vibration measurements. Six of the accelerometers were used for the foundation system, one accelerometer for the EDG body and the remaining accelerometer was for the isolated floor. The relative displacements between the isolated floor and foundation system were also measured to determine the complete movement of the EDG system in the case of using the Coil Spring-Viscous Damper system. The vibration reduction effects were evaluated and compared with the vibration responses for the foundation and the isolated floor, before and during an operation for the vibration measurement cases. The results of this research revealed that the Coil Spring-Viscous Damper system can reduce a vibration by over 90%. Although the Coil Spring-Viscous Damper system induced a rolling movement for the whole system, this movement of the whole EDG system was more stable when compared to that of an anchor bolt system.
Current Concepts in Reoperative Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Akujuo Adanna , Fischer Gregory W. , Chikwe Joanna
Published: November 2009

This article summarizes techniques used in reoperative cardiac surgery, outlines a risk-stratified approach to operative planning, and reviews the literature on outcomes after reoperative valvular and coronary surgery.
The Need for Specialized Preanesthesia Clinics for Day Admission Cardiac and Major Vascular Surgery Patients
Authors: Flynn Brigid C. , de Perio Marietta , Hughes Ellen , Silvay George
Published: November 2009

The majority of patients undergoing surgical procedures today are not admitted to the hospital prior to the morning of surgery. In a medical world that strives not only for patient safety, but also for cost containment, Day Admission Surgery (DAS) plays an important role in our healthcare systems. This is true even for patients undergoing cardiac and major vascular (CMV) procedures. However, CMV patients often present with more complicated pre-, intra- and post-operative issues than other surgical patients.

In order to optimize the preoperative evaluation and care of CMV patients, we developed a specialized Pre-Anesthesia Clinic (PAC). We believed that patients, surgeons, anesthesiologists, and intensive care unit (ICU) teams would all benefit when appropriate preoperative evaluations are thoughtfully performed by those specializing in the care of these complicated patients. Planning for this specialized clinic included a survey of other institutions’ practices. Following initiation of our clinic, we performed a patient satisfaction survey. We report these findings along with the demographic data concerning the patients and types of surgeries evaluated in our initial experience. Finally, we discuss the preoperative evaluation including various areas of assessment provided by our PAC.
Decreased cardiac Ang-(1-7) is associated with salt-induced cardiac remodeling and dysfunction
Authors: Varagic Jasmina , Ahmad Sarfaraz , Brosnihan K. Bridget , Groban Leanne , Chappell Mark C. , Tallant E. Ann , Gallagher Patricia E. , Ferrario Carlos M.
Published: November 2009

Objective: Angiotensin II has a critical role in the regulation of blood pressure and cell growth and excess activity of the peptide is implicated in the pathogenesis of salt-induced cardiovascular injury. On the other hand, the role of counteracting angiotensin-(1-7) in cardiac structural and functional responses to high salt diet has not been elucidated. Therefore, the present study examined the changes in cardiac angiotensin-(1-7), its forming enzyme angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and receptor mas in response to a high salt diet in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR).

Methods: Eight-week-old male spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) were given an 8% salt diet for 5 weeks ( n = 8). Age- and gender-matched controls received standard chow ( n = 6).

Results: Salt excess increased arterial pressure ( p < 0.05) and plasma renin and angiotensin II concentrations ( p < 0.05). Salt-induced left ventricular remodeling and diastolic dysfunction were associated with diminished levels of angiotensin-(1-7) in the heart ( p < 0.05) and no changes in cardiac angiotensin II levels. Exposure to high salt intake decreased cardiac ACE2 mRNA and protein level ( p < 0.05). There was no difference in the protein levels of angiotensin II type 1 and mas receptors between the two experimental groups.

Conclusion: The adverse cardiac effects of excessive salt intake may result not only from the undesirable action of angiotensin II but may also be a consequence of diminished protective effects of the angiotensin-(1-7).
Twin Reversed Arterial Perfusion Syndrome: the Role of Ultrasound in Diagnosis and Management
Authors: Yamoah Kofi K , Kotlinska Maja A , Coady Anne M , Lesny Poitr
Published: November 2009

Acardiac twin pregnancies are a rare but severe complication of monochorionic twinning. This complication occurs in 1% of monozygotic twin pregnancies or 1 in 35 000 births. The anomaly arises due to superficial artery-to-artery placental anastomoses leading to reversed perfusion from the donor or pump twin to the acardiac twin. It is postulated that as a consequence of the hypoxic environment within the recipient fetus there is secondary atrophy of the heart and other organs. The acardiac twin has no chance of survival and it is kept alive by its structurally normal twin. The presence of the acardiac twin can adversely affect outcome in a number of ways. First, a growing parasitic mass can increase the cardiovascular demands on the pump twin leading to congestive heart failure and polyhydramnios. The continued growth of the acardiac twin can increase the intrauterine volume and this increased uterine mass effect may lead to preterm delivery. Finally, blood returning from the acardiac twin to the pump twin is deoxygenated which may lead to chronic hypoxia and growth restriction in the donor fetus. The perinatal mortality rate for the pump twin is approximately 50%. The twin reverse arterial perfusion sequence can be quite variable in its presentation and outcome. The role of ultrasonography is central to making the initial diagnosis, determining the prognosis, optimizing the time of intervention and follow up of treatment.
Fetal Demise and Stillbirth and the New Human Tissue (Scotland) Act
Authors: Fitzgerald Yueyue W , Mohammed Riaz , Fitzgerald Tom
Published: November 2009

Controversies raised by the Alder Hey Inquiry have focused public attention on post-mortem examination and retention of human tissue as well as the requirement for pathologists to obtain proper consent. To address these issues in Scotland, the Human Tissue (Scotland) Act 2006 (HTA) came into force in September 2006. This Act identifies persons who may authorise the removal and use of the body. However, controversy persists regarding the status of the stillborn and the practical problems of obtaining authorisation for post-mortem examination. Amendments to the HTA may follow. The aim herein is to select specific aspects of the law where difficulties arise in practice and also illustrate efforts towards resolution, for debate and discussion.
The morphology of the masticatory apparatus facilitates muscle force production at wide jaw gapes in tree-gouging common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus)
Authors: Eng C. M. , Ward S. R. , Vinyard C. J. , Taylor A. B.
Published: November 2009

Common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus) generate wide jaw gapes when gouging trees with their anterior teeth to elicit tree exudate flow. Closely related cotton-top tamarins (Saguinus oedipus) do not gouge trees but share similar diets including exudates. Maximizing jaw opening theoretically compromises the bite forces that marmosets can generate during gouging. To investigate how jaw-muscle architecture and craniofacial position impact muscle performance during gouging, we combine skull and jaw-muscle architectural features to model muscle force production across a range of jaw gapes in these two species. We incorporate joint mechanics, resting sarcomere length and muscle architecture estimates from the masseter and temporalis to model muscle excursion, sarcomere length and relative tension as a function of joint angle. Muscle excursion from occlusion to an estimated maximum functional gape of 55 deg. was smaller in all regions of the masseter and temporalis of C. jacchus compared with S. oedipus except the posterior temporalis. As a consequence of reduced muscle excursion distributed over more sarcomeres in series (i.e. longer fibers), sarcomere length operating ranges are smaller in C. jacchus jaw muscles across this range of gapes. This configuration allows C. jacchus to act on a more favorable portion of the length—tension curve at larger gapes and thereby generate relatively greater tension in these muscles compared with S. oedipus. Our results suggest that biting performance during tree gouging in common marmosets is improved by a musculoskeletal configuration that reduces muscle stretch at wide gapes while simultaneously facilitating comparatively large muscle forces at the extremes of jaw opening.
The cost of assuming the life history of a host: acoustic startle in the parasitoid fly Ormia ochracea
Authors: Rosen M. J. , Levin E. C. , Hoy R. R.
Published: November 2009

In the obligatory reproductive dependence of a parasite on its host, the parasite must trade the benefit of ‘outsourcing’ functions like reproduction for the risk of assuming hazards associated with the host. In the present study, we report behavioral adaptations of a parasitic fly, Ormia ochracea, that resemble those of its cricket hosts. Ormia females home in on the male cricket's songs and deposit larvae, which burrow into the cricket, feed and emerge to pupate. Because male crickets call at night, gravid female Ormia in search of hosts are subject to bat predation, in much the same way as female crickets are when responding to male song. We show that Ormia has evolved the same evasive behavior as have crickets: an acoustic startle response to bat-like ultrasound that manifests clearly only during flight. Furthermore, like crickets, Ormia has a sharp response boundary between the frequencies of song and bat cries, resembling categorical perception first described in the context of human speech.
Distinct freshwater and seawater isoforms of Na+/K+-ATPase in gill chloride cells of Atlantic salmon
Authors: McCormick S. D. , Regish A. M. , Christensen A. K.
Published: November 2009

Gill Na+/K+-ATPase (NKA) in teleost fishes is involved in ion regulation in both freshwater and seawater. We have developed and validated rabbit polyclonal antibodies specific to the NKA α1a and α1b protein isoforms of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar Linnaeus), and used western blots and immunohistochemistry to characterize their size, abundance and localization. The relative molecular mass of NKA α1a is slightly less than that for NKA β1b. The abundance of gill NKA α1a was high in freshwater and became nearly undetectable after seawater acclimation. NKA α1b was present in small amounts in freshwater and increased 13-fold after seawater acclimation. Both NKA isoforms were detected only in chloride cells. NKA α1a was located in both filamental and lamellar chloride cells in freshwater, whereas in seawater it was present only as a faint background in filamental chloride cells. In freshwater, NKA α1b was found in a small number of filamental chloride cells, and after seawater acclimation it was found in all chloride cells on the filament and lamellae. Double simultaneous immunofluorescence indicated that NKA α1a and α1b are located in different chloride cells in freshwater. In many chloride cells in seawater, NKA α1b was present in greater amounts in the subapical region than elsewhere in the cell. The combined patterns in abundance and immunolocalization of these two isoforms can explain the salinity-related changes in total NKA and chloride cell abundance. The results indicate that there is a freshwater and a seawater isoform of NKA α-subunit in the gills of Atlantic salmon and that they are present in distinct chloride cells.
Male GPs' views on men seeking medical help: A qualitative study
Authors: Hale Susan , Grogan Sarah , Willott Sara
Published: November 2009

Objective. Analysis of health service statistics reveals that men tend to under‐use primary health care services. Previous research has suggested that men view illness as a form of weakness and have negative views about men who seek medical help. It has also indicated that some men believe that male General Practitioner (GP)s hold similar views, a factor which may influence their own tendency to self‐refer. This study aims to explore male GPs' experiences of their male patients' patterns of self‐referral and to identify factors that may negatively influence doctor–patient relationships.

Method. Semi‐structured interviews were carried out with 10 male GPs (ages=35–53). These were audiotaped and subjected to interpretative phenomenological analysis to identify relevant themes.

Results. For all participants, managing service demands were seen as a major challenge. Analysis of these GP's accounts suggested that they see men's self‐referral as being primarily influenced by the need to conform to masculine gender roles and a number of ways that men accessed services in a way congruent with this were identified. This study also explored how participants' own adherence to gender roles may itself influence the doctor–patient relationship.

Conclusion. This study suggests that, like other men, male GPs may have ambivalent attitudes towards male self‐referral and that this may influence their interactions with male patients.
Predictors of Intention to Prepare for Volcanic Risks in Mt Merapi, Indonesia
Authors: Sagala Saut , Okada Norio , Paton Douglas
Published: November 2009

This article is about modelling causal-relationship factors related to disaster preparedness. A model identifying the relationships between person- and community-level factors and intention to prepare for volcanic risks is tested in communities surrounding the Mt Merapi volcano, Indonesia. The analysis extends the test of a model developed by one of the authors in an individualistic culture, New Zealand, to members of a collectivistic culture. Using the data obtained from communities situated around Mt Merapi ( n = 322), analysis revealed that community-level (collective efficacy and community participation) and variables describing the quality of the relationship between community members and civic agencies played significant roles in predicting intentions to prepare for volcanic hazards. The analysis also revealed that individual-level variables (outcome expectancy) were less influential compared with studies applying the model in individualistic countries. Some policy implications related to the findings are discussed.
Emergency Incident Management: An Evolving Incident Control System Framework
Authors: Dwyer Ian , Owen Christine
Published: November 2009

This article reports on an investigation into the use of Incident Control Systems (e.g., AIIMS/ CIMS) by personnel involved in emergency incident management in fire and emergency services agencies in Australia and New Zealand. A questionnaire was distributed that aimed to assess how information flowed between emergency incident management personnel at different layers of the incident control system, and what enabled and constrained coordination between those personnel. Data were collected from personnel on the fire or incident ground; members of Incident Management Teams; as well as staff operating in regional and state centres of coordination. To date there have been 579 responses spread across 24 agencies. The findings reveal that while there is a high level of satisfaction with overall organisational arrangements and reporting relationships, there are some systemic tensions in, and dissatisfaction evident with, communication arrangements. The extent to which Incident Control Systems facilitate the organisational flexibility needed during dynamic and often unpredictable situations is also discussed. Where appropriate, comparisons are made with similar questionnaire data collected in 2003 by AFAC (Australasian Fire Authorities Council).
Improving the Accuracy of Self-Reports on Diet and Physical Exercise: The Co-Twin Control Method
Authors: Bogl Leonie H. , Pietiläinen Kirsi H. , Rissanen Aila , Kaprio Jaakko
Published: November 2009

The objective was to examine the association between several obesity-related nongenetic behaviors and body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) in young adult twins using reports from both twins on their similarities and differences. A total of 713 monozygotic (MZ) and 698 same-sex dizygotic (DZ) twin pairs aged 22–28 years filled in structured questionnaires to compare their eating, physical activity and dieting behavior with their co-twin's behavior, and to report their own eating and exercise habits. In both MZ and DZ pairs, the co-twins for whom both twin pair members concordantly answered that this twin eats more, snacks more, eats more fatty foods and sweet and fatty delicacies, chooses less healthy foods, eats faster and exercises less, had significantly higher BMIs (0.6–2.9 kg/m2) and WCs (1.5–7.5 cm). Multivariate regression analysis identified co-twin differences in the amount of food consumed as the strongest independent predictor of intrapair differences in BMI (β = 0.63 and 1.21, for MZ and DZ, respectively,p< .001) and WC (β = 1.52 and 3.53, for MZ and DZ, respectively,p< .001). Higher leisure-time physical activity and healthier dietary choices clustered in the same subjects. The measurement of habitual dietary intake and physical activity has previously relied on subjective self-reports that are prone to misreporting. By using comparative measures within twin pairs we found that the amount of food consumed is the major contributor to obesity independent of genetic predisposition.
Heritability of Hemodynamic Reactivity to Laboratory Stressors in a Homogenous Arab Population: ‘Oman Family Study’
Authors: Hassan Mohammed O. , Bayoumi Riad A. , Lopez-Alvarenga Juan C. , Snieder Harold , Jaju Deepali , Al-Yahyaee Saeed , Al-Hadabi Saleh , Comuzzie Anthony G. , Albarwani Sulayma
Published: November 2009

Background:Exaggerated cardiovascular reactivity to stressful stimuli may be a risk factor for the development of hypertension. The genetic influence on blood pressure (BP) reactivity to stress and its control mechanisms has been receiving considerable support. This study aims at examining the heritability of BP and its intermediate hemodynamic phenotypes to acute stress in a homogeneous Arab population.Methods:Parameters were computed from continuous BP, electrocardiography and impedance cardiography measurements, during rest, word conflict (WCT) and cold pressor (CPT) tests. Heritability estimates (h2) were obtained using the variance components-based approach implemented in the SOLAR software package.Results:Reactivity scores for WCT and CPT increased significantly (P< .05) for systolic (SBP), diastolic (DBP), heart rate (HR), cardiac output (CO), and total peripheral resistance (TPR). They decreased significantly (P< .05) for stroke volume (SV), left ventricular ejection time (LVET), end diastolic (EDI) and cardiac contractility (IC) indices. Univariate analysis detected heritability estimates that ranged from 0.19–0.35 for rest, 0.002–0.40 for WCT and 0.08–0.35 for CPT.Conclusion:In this unique cohort, resting as well as challenged cardiovascular phenotypes are significantly influenced by additive genetic effects. Heritability estimates for resting phenotypes are in a relatively narrow range, while h2for their reactivity is somewhat broader with lower estimates. Further analyses of this study may offer important opportunities for gene finding in hypertension.What is Known About the Topic:(1) cardiovascular reactivity to stress predicts cardiovascular disease; (2) genetic susceptibility plays an important role in stress reactivity. Family studies using the cold pressure test reported significant heritability for blood pressure.What this Study Adds:(1) this cohort is from five highly consanguineous isolated Arab pedigrees with genetically verified genealogical records and environmental homogeneity; (2) This is the first study to estimate heritability of detailed intermediate hemodynamic phenotypes that make up normal blood pressure.
No Evidence of Genetic Mediation in the Association Between Birthweight and Academic Performance in 2,413 Danish Adolescent Twin Pairs
Authors: Petersen Inge , Jensen Vibeke Myrup , McGue Matt , Bingley Paul , Christensen Kaare
Published: November 2009

Evidence of a positive association between birthweight and IQ has been established in several studies. Analyses of within twin pair differences in birthweight and IQ have been used to shed light on the basis of the association. The strength of this approach is the possibility of controlling for both unmeasured common childhood–environmental factors as well as genetic factors shared by the co-twins. Two twin studies suggest the existence of genetic mediation between birthweight and IQ, that is, common genetic factors influence both fetal growth and IQ in childhood, while two other twin studies find no evidence of such mediation. In the present study we use a large population-based national register study of 2,413 Danish twin-pairs from birth cohorts 1986–1990, of which we have zygosity information on 74%. We perform individual level as well as intra-pair analyses of birthweight and school achievements at age 16. For both sexes we observed a monotonic increase in academic performance with increasing percentiles of birthweight. However, we did not find that this association is due to genetic mediation.
Unrelated ART Twins / Tribute: Dr Robert Derom / Twin Research Reviews: Transfusion Syndrome; Discordant MZ-Twin Method / Matched Talents: Tennis Twins: (Mike and Bob Bryan; Sonchai and Sonchat Ratiwatana); Television Twins: (Ellen and Lynda Kahn)
Authors: Segal Nancy L.
Published: November 2009

Aunique case of artificially conceived twins is described. The infants involved are unrelated to one another, as well as to the mother who carried them. The question of whether these individuals meet scientific criteria for being twins is considered, as is the issue of whether their parents are really parents of twins. Next, the International Society for Twin Studies acknowledges the life and work of its late esteemed colleague, Dr Robert Derom. His professional accomplishments on behalf of twins and twin research will be remembered, as will his helpfulness and generosity to fellow investigators. This tribute to Dr Derom is followed by reviews of new research on the pathophysiology of the twin transfusion syndrome and the use of discordant MZ twins (co-twin control) in behavioral research. The final section provides a review of the athletic talents of two sets of MZ twin tennis players, and the creative skills of a set of MZ twin designers.
Hypogonadism in females with Prader–Willi syndrome from infancy to adulthood: variable combinations of a primary gonadal defect and hypothalamic dysfunction
Authors: Eldar-Geva Talia , Hirsch Harry J , Benarroch Fortu , Rubinstein Orit , Gross-Tsur Varda
Published: November 2009

Objective

The variable hypogonadism in Prader–Willi syndrome (PWS) has generally been attributed to hypothalamic dysfunction. Recent studies have documented primary testicular dysfunction in PWS males. Our aims were to characterize sexual development and reproductive hormones in PWS females and to investigate the etiology of hypogonadism.

Design

A cross-sectional study.

Methods

Physical examination was performed on 45 PWS females (aged 6 weeks to 32 years) and blood samples were obtained for hormonal analyses.

Results

Age of onset and progression of puberty varied; most adults had incomplete sexual development. Spontaneous menarche was reported in four (aged 15–30 years) but all had subsequently developed secondary amenorrhea or oligomennorrhea. Anti-Mullerian hormone levels were within the normal range in all age groups. Inhibin B was consistently low or undetectable; only five women had levels in the low-normal range (20–54 pg/ml). LH was normal in most children, but low (<1.0 IU/l) in 9 of 15 adults. FSH was within the normal range for age in most children, but low (<0.5 IU/l) in 10 and high in four adults. Estradiol levels were normal-low and androgen levels were normal in the majority.

Conclusions

Pubertal development in PWS females, as in males, is characterized by normal adrenarche, pubertal arrest, and hypogonadism due to variable combinations of a unique primary gonadal defect and hypothalamic dysfunction.
Health disorders and teachers' voices: a workers' health issue
Authors: Alves Liliana Amorim , Robazzi Maria Lúcia do Carmo Cruz , Marziale Maria Helena Palucci , Felippe Ana Clara Naufel de , Romano Cristiane da Conceição
Published: November 2009

Environmental and/or work risk factors, lack of basic knowledge related to voice, its incorrect use, and a defective vocal model can lead teachers to develop occupational dysphonia. This study aimed to analyze studies focusing on occupational vocal disorders through a literature review. Articles published over a period of 11 years in periodicals indexed in the ScieLO library were searched according to predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Twenty articles related to teachers' vocal occupational disorders were found. We argue that intense vocal use should not harm professionals; the voice has to be pleasant to the speaker and correctly produced. The conclusion is that there is a scarcity of articles available at the studied library relating to teachers' voice disorders. Further studies need to be developed and disseminated so as to increase knowledge in the subject.
Endovascular treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysms in high-surgical-risk patients
Authors: Mendonça Célio Teixeira , Moreira Ricardo Cesar Rocha , Carvalho Cláudio Augusto de , Moreira Bárbara D´Agnoluzzo , Weingärtner Janaína , Shiomi Alexandre Y.
Published: November 2009

Background: Following the publication of a prospective randomized trial (Endovascular Aneurysm Repair Trial 2 - EVAR2) that questioned the benefits of endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) in high-surgical-risk patients, we decided to analyze our initial and long-term results with endovascular AAA repair in this patient population. Objective: To evaluate the operative mortality, long-term survival, frequency of secondary operations, outcome of the aneurysm sac, primary and secondary patency rates, and rupture rate after aortic stent-graft placement in high-surgical-risk patients. Methods: From April 2002 to February 2008, 40 high-surgical and anesthetic risk patients with an AAA managed by a bifurcated aortic endograft were entered in a prospective registry. Data concerning diagnosis, operative risk, treatment and follow-up were analyzed in all patients Results: Twenty-four Excluder® and 16 Zenith® stent-grafts were successfully implanted. Thirty patients (75%) were classed ASA III and 10 (25%) were ASA IV. Mean aneurysm diameter was 64 mm. Operative mortality was 2.5%. Two patients required reintervention during the mean follow-up of 28.5 months. Survival rate at 3 years was 95%. There were four endoleaks, one case of endotension, and one endograft limb occlusion. Primary and secondary patency rates at 3 years were 97.5 and 100%, respectively. There were no ruptures. Conclusions: Initial and long-term results with endovascular treatment of AAA in high-surgical-risk patients were satisfactory, and appear to justify such approach for this patient population.
Progesterone decreases tyrosine hydroxylase phosphorylation state and increases protein phosphatase 2A activity in the stalk-median eminence on proestrous afternoon
Authors: Liu Bin , Arbogast Lydia A
Published: November 2009

The progesterone (P4) rise on proestrous afternoon is associated with dephosphorylation of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and reduced TH activity in the stalk-median eminence (SME), which contributes to the proestrous prolactin surge in rats. In the present study, we investigated the time course for P4 effect on TH activity and phosphorylation state, as well as cAMP levels and protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) activity and quantity, in the SME on proestrous morning and afternoon. P4 (7.5 mg/kg, s.c.) treatment on proestrous afternoon decreased TH activity and TH phosphorylation state at Ser-31 and Ser-40 within 1 h, whereas morning administration of P4 had no 1 h effect on TH. PP2A activity in the SME was enhanced after P4 treatment for 1 h on proestrous afternoon without a change in PP2A catalytic subunit quantity, whereas P4 treatment had no effect on PP2A activity or quantity on proestrous morning. cAMP levels in the SME were unchanged with 1 h P4 treatment. At 5 h after P4 treatment, TH activity and phosphorylation state declined coincident with an increase in plasma prolactin in both P4-treated morning and afternoon groups. PP2A activity in the SME was unchanged in 5 h P4-treated rat. Our data suggest that P4 action on tuberoinfundibular dopaminergic (TIDA) neurons involves at least two components. A more rapid (1 h) P4 effect engaged only on proestrous afternoon likely involves the activation of PP2A. The longer P4 action on TIDA neurons is evident on both the morning and afternoon of proestrus and may involve a common, as yet unidentified, mechanism.
Influence of tungsten sources on the synthesis and properties of ammonium dioxothiotungstate
Authors: Bi Yunfei , Zeng Shuangqin , Li Dadong , Nie Hong
Published: November 2009

Ammonium dioxothiotungstate was synthesized using different tungsten sources and characterized in detail by powder X-ray diffraction, energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry, transmission electron microscopy, nitrogen adsorption, and temperature-programmed sulfidation. It was found that tungsten oxide nanobelts are superior to ammonium metatungstate as tungsten source for the synthesis of ammonium dioxothiotungstate due to a time-consuming aging step being excluded from the synthesis route. Moreover, detailed characteristic data reveal that, when tungsten oxide nanobelts are used, the physical and chemical properties of the resulting ammonium dioxothiotungstate including particles size, specific surface area, and sulfidation pattern were improved. Also, the hydrodesulfurization measurements showed higher catalytic activity and balanced selectivity of the resulting ammonium dioxothiotungstate.
Introduction
Authors: Soysal Levent
Published: November 2009

Culture has always been the defining feature and disciplinary asset of anthropology. Before the reflective conversations of the 1980s, anthropology had owned culture. In the aftermath of the "crisis of anthropology" came the expansion and augmentation of culture to disciplines, domains, and settings beyond anthropology. Culture is now present in every aspect of social life and it is possible to buy, sell, design, invent, market, perform, and circulate culture(s) individually or collectively in (in)tangible forms. With the expansion, "culture talk"—not always in benign variety—has also become the predominant mode of addressing citizenship, security, and even economy, which were conventionally considered to be distinct from culture. This article elucidates this expansive venture of culture from being a disciplinary analytical artifact to an authoritative arbiter of rights, difference, heritage, and style, and suggests "projects of culture" as an analytical tool to enter into the burdensome territory of culture today, without getting trapped in culture talk.
A cosmopolitan Europe?
Authors: Bodirsky Katharina
Published: November 2009

Cosmopolitan visions hold EU-Europe capable of recognizing diversity within limits set by universal principles. This view has gained currency in EU self-representations and among the liberal left as a counter to founding EU-Europe on civilizational unity. Proponents of a cosmopolitan Europe nevertheless partake in a culturalization of politics that enables and obscures processes of state transformation visible in Turkey's EU accession process. Debates on Turkey's EU membership construct a normative representation of EU-Europe that justifies EU accession measures as "normalization." Supporters of a cosmopolitan EU contribute to this political effect by adhering to a liberal distinction between "mere difference" to be tolerated and "disruptive difference" to be contained, which legitimizes an interventionist stance vis-à-vis Turkey. However, changes in state interventions and institutions supported by this normalizing project go beyond installing "unity in diversity" in cultural-political terms. They involve economic de- and reregulation that might entrench social and territorial inequalities.