bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nowhere to run: the role of habitat openness and refuge use in defining patterns of morphological and performance evolution in tropical lizards
Authors: GOODMAN B. A.
Published: June 2009

For species from open habitats with little cover and few refugia, selection should favour morphologies that enhance performance at tasks that enable rapid movement across open areas. Similarly, selection should also favour traits that enable rapid access and movement within suitable refugia. This study examined the relationship between habitat openness, refuge use, morphology and performance of 19 species representing 23 populations of tropical Lygosomine skink. Species from this group occupy a wide array of habitats from open forest and open rocky intertidal zones to high‐altitude heaths and dense, closed forests. Species that occupied open habitats were faster at sprinting, climbing and had better cling ability than species from more cluttered, closed habitats. In addition, species from habitats that used rock crevices as refuges had enhanced sprinting ability. This study shows the importance of both habitat openness and refuge type in the evolution of both the morphology and performance in lizards.
Scent of a Woman – The Effect of Female Presence on Sexual Cannibalism in an Orb‐Weaving Spider (Araneae: Araneidae)
Authors: Nessler Stefan H. , Uhl Gabriele , Schneider Jutta M.
Published: June 2009

Post‐mating sexual cannibalism occurs as a regular element of mating behaviour in a number of spider species. Frequencies of cannibalism, however, are highly variable between and within species. In Argiope bruennichi, males apparently differ in their motivation to escape a female attack but causes for this variability are unknown. We observed that the probability of sexual cannibalism is positively correlated with male age, i.e. the number of days that passed between male maturation and copulation. The mating season in this species is short with 3–4 wk and males mostly mature days before the females, whose maturation phase is longer. Consequently, as the season progresses, the availability of virgin females increases, quickly reaches a peak and then rapidly declines. In addition, the age of still unmated males increases with the season and both of these factors can potentially affect the degree of sexual cannibalism. To separate these factors, males were collected in their penultimate stage and kept until mating either with or without contact to female pheromones. Thereby, we experimentally manipulated the male’s perception of female presence. Within each treatment, we formed three male age groups: (1) 2–6 d, (2) 12–16 d and (3) 22–28 d. Our results demonstrate that the probability of cannibalism was independent of male age but was explained by the treatment of males: males exposed to virgin female pheromones were significantly more likely to be cannibalised than males that were kept without female pheromones. This suggests that males change their reproductive strategy according to perceived mating prospects.
Differential Migration by Sex in the Great Bustard: Possible Consequences of an Extreme Sexual Size Dimorphism
Authors: Palacín Carlos , Alonso Juan C. , Alonso Javier A. , Martín Carlos A. , Magaña Marina , Martin Beatriz
Published: June 2009

We explored migration patterns in Great bustards (Otis tarda), a species that shows strong sexual selection and the most extreme sexual size dimorphism among birds. The aim was to explain differential migration, examining whether Great bustards fulfil the main predictions of bird migration theory hypotheses and sexual segregation theory hypotheses. We radio‐tracked the seasonal movements of 65 males and 68 females in central Spain. We found four main sexual differences. First, the proportion of migratory males was higher than that of migratory females (86% vs. 51%). Second, males abandoned the leks immediately after the mating season (late May to early Jun.), whereas females remained there for another 3–7 mo. Third, 54% of the migratory males used two different post‐breeding areas, the first located northwards at 82 km from the breeding sites in summer, and the second southwards at 50 km in autumn–winter. Migratory females used only one area in autumn–winter which coincided geographically with that of males. And fourth, males returned to the breeding areas earlier (between Sep. and Mar.) than females (between Jan. and Apr.). These results show that the Great bustard is a differential migrant by sex in central Spain and support the weather sensitivity hypothesis (males were less tolerant to summer heat) and the specialization hypothesis (exclusive maternal care of the brood by females). Sexual differences in migratory behaviour are probably ultimately determined by the strong sexual selection in this species.
Post‐Conflict Affiliation in Barbary Macaques is Influenced by Conflict Characteristics and Relationship Quality, but Does Not Diminish Short‐Term Renewed Aggression
Authors: Patzelt Annika , Pirow Ralph , Fischer Julia
Published: June 2009

Many group living primates have evolved mechanisms to repair their social relationships after conflicts (‘reconciliation’). We analysed the post‐conflict behaviour of female Barbary macaques, Macaca sylvanus, living in the enclosure ‘La Forêt des Singes’ at Rocamadour, France. Based on a sample of 914 conflicts, we investigated whether relationship (kinship, rank, affiliation, support and sex) and conflict characteristics (conflict intensity, context and duration) affected the quality and frequency of affiliative post‐conflict interactions. Thirty‐two per cent of all conflicts were followed by post‐conflict affiliation. Rates of socio‐positive interactions and support were better predictors of post‐conflict affiliation than kinship or rank. Short conflicts were followed by post‐conflict affiliation relatively more frequently, after a shorter latency, but only briefly, and such interactions were initiated by both parties equally frequently. The majority of affiliative post‐conflict interactions occurred immediately after the end of the conflict. In sum, female Barbary macaques invest more in post‐conflict affiliation with valuable partners, and they modulate their post‐conflict behaviour in relation to conflict characteristics. Remarkably, affiliative post‐conflict interactions increased the short‐term probability of renewed aggression by the former aggressor to 16% compared with 9% for conflicts that were not followed by affiliative behaviour. Such renewed aggression after post‐conflict affiliation occurred particularly frequently among females and after conflicts over food, suggesting that post‐conflict affiliation sometimes falsely lures the former victim to stay in the vicinity, even at the risk of receiving renewed aggression.
Male‐Biased Sex Ratios in Offspring of Attractive Males in the Guppy
Authors: Karino Kenji , Sato Aya
Published: June 2009

The attractiveness hypothesis predicts that females produce offspring with male‐biased sex ratios when they mate with attractive males because their male offspring will inherit the paternal sexual attractiveness and may have high reproductive success. In this study, we examined the effect of the attractiveness of the male guppy Poecilia reticulata in terms of the conspicuousness of its orange spot patterns, important criteria affecting female choice in this species, on the offspring sex ratios. We found that food‐manipulation treatment altered the conspicuousness of the orange spot patterns in a full‐sibling male pair. When females were presented to these males, they showed a greater mate preference for males having brighter orange spots than for those having duller orange spots. Subsequently, half of the females were mated with the preferred males and the remaining females were mated with the less preferred males. When the females exhibited a greater preference for their mates, their offspring sex ratios were more male biased. These results appear to be consistent with the prediction of the attractiveness hypothesis. In the guppy, as male sexual attractiveness is heritable, the male‐biased sex ratios of the broods of attractive males may be adaptive.
Temperature and Cloud Cover, but Not Predator Urine, Affect Winter Foraging of Mice
Authors: Orrock John L. , Danielson Brent J.
Published: June 2009

Although homeotherms likely experience costs of both predation risk and thermoregulation while foraging, it is unclear how foragers contend with these costs. We used foraging trays placed in sheltered microsites to determine whether temperature, a direct cue of predator presence (predator urine) and an indirect cue of predation risk (cloudy nights) affect foraging of white‐footed mice, Peromyscus leucopus, in winter. Mice were presented with urine from bobcats, Lynx rufus, red foxes, Vulpes vulpes, and coyotes, Canis latrans, an herbivore (whitetailed deer, Odocoileus virginianus), and a water control. To measure rodent foraging, we used seeds of millet mixed with sand to quantify giving‐up densities (the number of seeds left in each foraging tray). Giving‐up density was not affected by predator urine. Rather, rodent foraging was affected by an interaction of temperature and weather. On overcast nights, when predation risk was likely lower, mice foraged more when soil temperature was higher, presumably reducing thermoregulatory costs. On clear nights, foraging was low regardless of soil temperature, presumably because foraging was more risky. These results suggest that mice consider thermoregulatory costs and predation risk when making foraging decisions, and that the indirect cue afforded by weather, rather than the direct cue of predator urine, is among the cues used to make foraging decisions. Moreover, these results suggest that sensitivity to a particular cue is likely to be context‐dependent.
Susceptibility to Armillaria novae‐zelandiae among clones of Pinus radiata
Authors: Hood I. A. , Kimberley M. O. , Gardner J. F.
Published: June 2009

Options are currently limited for the management of armillaria root disease in plantations of Pinus radiata in New Zealand. One possibility may be to plant genetically resistant clones on infested sites. Studies were undertaken over four consecutive years to examine variation in inherent resistance in P. radiata. Rooted cuttings in pots were treated with wood segment cultures of Armillaria novae‐zelandiae and disease symptoms were monitored during the following summer. Disease was severe among inoculated cuttings in all studies, with an overall mean of 54% plants infected. There were significant differences in both infection and mortality between studies and between four pathogen isolates, but not among 25 radiata pine clones. The rate at which symptoms first appeared also did not vary significantly between clones. Results suggest that while genetic resistance cannot be ruled out as an option in P. radiata, potential gains may be limited in extent and costly to achieve.
TDP‐43 is consistently co‐localized with ubiquitinated inclusions in sporadic and Guam amyotrophic lateral sclerosis but not in familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis with and without SOD1 mutations
Authors: Maekawa Satomi , Leigh P. Nigel , King Andrew , Jones Edith , Steele John C. , Bodi Istvan , Shaw Christopher E. , Hortobagyi Tibor , Al‐Sarraj Safa
Published: June 2009

The transactive response (TAR) DNA binding protein 43 (TDP‐43) has been recently implicated as a major component of ubiquitinated inclusions in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS, motor neuron disease: MND) and ALS‐related disorders. In this study, we examined abnormal TDP‐43 pathology in 13 sporadic ALS (SALS), six familial ALS (FALS) with and without Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD1) mutations (SOD1‐FALS and non‐SOD1‐FALS), Guam ALS, two frontotemporal lobar degeneration with MND/ALS (FTLD‐MND/ALS), one FTLD with ubiquitin‐only‐immunoreactive inclusions (FTLD‐U) and two progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP). Sections from the spinal cord were processed for immunohistochemistry using antibodies against TDP‐43, ubiquitin, p62, cystatin C, phosphorylated tau protein (P‐tau; AT8), α‐synuclein and phosphorylated neurofilament protein (P‐NF). In 12 out of 13 SALS and both Guam ALS cases ubiquitin and p62‐immunoreactive (IR) neuronal inclusions co‐localized with TDP‐43. In three out of four SOD1‐FALS and one of two non‐SOD1‐FALS cases, TDP‐43‐IR inclusions were absent despite the presence of p62 and/or ubiquitin‐IR inclusions. However, a single TDP‐43‐IR neuronal inclusion co‐localized with p62 and ubiquitin in one SOD1‐FALS (His48Gln) case. Except for one neuron in a Guam case, all TDP‐43‐IR neuronal inclusions were negative for P‐tau (AT8). TDP‐43‐IR glial inclusions and neurites were also demonstrated. The TDP‐43 is a consistent component of the ubiquitinated inclusions in SALS and Guam ALS, but TDP‐43‐IR inclusions are absent or scarce in SOD1‐FALS.
Effects of sunlight exposure and log size on pine engraver (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) reproduction in ponderosa pine slash in Northern Arizona, U.S.A.
Authors: Hayes Christopher J. , Hofstetter Richard W. , DeGomez Tom E. , Wagner Michael R.
Published: June 2009

1 Abiotic conditions within logs can affect pine engraver Ips pini (Say) reproductive success, and slash management techniques have been developed that exploit these relationships to reduce brood production. In the present study, we investigated the affect of sunlight exposure on phloem temperature and moisture in logs of two diameters and the subsequent effects on pine engraver reproduction.

2 Logs, 30 cm in length, with diameters of 10 and 15 cm, were cut, left in the field for natural colonization by I pini, and then placed in an open meadow and under shade cloth, providing 27% and 66% shade, until offspring beetles had left the logs. Phloem temperature and moisture were recorded over the duration of the experiment and, at the end of the field experiment, logs were dissected and galleries were measured to gauge beetle reproductive success.

3 As sunlight exposure increased, phloem temperatures increased and potentially lethal temperatures were often reached in the high‐sunlight exposure but seldom in the low‐sunlight. Smaller diameter logs had drier phloem than larger diameter logs. All logs dried with time but sunlight level did not affect desiccation rates. Ips pini preferred attacking larger logs and the bottom side of logs. Sunlight exposure had a significant effect on net reproductive success in smaller diameter logs, with very little net reproductive success in high‐sunlight exposed logs, and the highest reproductive success was found in small diameter logs in the low‐sunlight treatments.

4 Management implications of these results are discussed.
A case study of constructivist instructional strategies for adult online learning
Authors: Ruey Shieh
Published: June 2009

This case study explores how a constructivist‐based instructional design helped adult learners learn in an online learning environment. Two classes of adult learners pursuing professional development and registered in a web‐based course were studied. The data consisted of course documents, submitted artefacts, surveys, interviews, in‐class observations, and online observations. The study found that the majority of the learners were engaged in two facets of learning. On the one hand, the instructional activities requiring collaboration and interaction helped the learners support one another's learning, from which most claimed to have benefited. On the other hand, the constructivist‐based course assisted many learners to develop a sense of becoming more responsible, self‐directed learners. Overall, the social constructivist style of instructional strategy seems promising to facilitate adult learning, which not only helps change learners' perceptions of the online learning, but also assists them to learn in a more collaborative, authentic and responsible way. The study, however, also disclosed that in order to maintain high‐quality learning, appropriate assessment plans and adequate facilitation must be particularly reinforced. A facilitation model is thus suggested.
Fast Isosurface Rendering on a GPU by Cell Rasterization
Authors: Liu B. , Clapworthy G. J. , Dong F.
Published: June 2009

This paper presents a fast, high‐quality, GPU‐based isosurface rendering pipeline for implicit surfaces defined by a regular volumetric grid. GPUs are designed primarily for use with polygonal primitives, rather than volume primitives, but here we directly treat each volume cell as a single rendering primitive by designing a vertex program and fragment program on a commodity GPU. Compared with previous raycasting methods, ours has a more effective memory footprint (cache locality) and better coherence between multiple parallel SIMD processors. Furthermore, we extend and speed up our approach by introducing a new view‐dependent sorting algorithm to take advantage of the early‐z‐culling feature of the GPU to gain significant performance speed‐up. As another advantage, this sorting algorithm makes multiple transparent isosurfaces rendering available almost for free. Finally, we demonstrate the effectiveness and quality of our techniques in several real‐time rendering scenarios and include analysis and comparisons with previous work.
Scepticism and the Senses
Authors: Stroud Barry
Published: June 2009

Abstract: This paper is an attempt to identify and to suggest reasons to reject those assumptions about the nature and scope of perceptual knowledge that appear to make an unacceptable scepticism the only strictly defensible answer to the philosophical problem of knowledge of the world in general. The suggestion is that our knowing things about the world around us by perception can be satisfactorily explained only if we can be understood to sometimes perceive that such‐and‐such is so, where what we perceive to be so is the very state of the world that we thereby know to be so. This is not proposed as a better answer to the philosophical problem, but as a way of seeing how that problem as traditionally understood could not really present a threat to anyone who can think about the world at all.
A Stochastic Measure of International Competitiveness*
Authors: CLEMENTS KENNETH W. , IZAN H. Y. , LAN YIHUI
Published: June 2009

Government agencies produce indexes that purport to measure international competitiveness. The most common version is the real effective exchange rate, which is some form of weighted average of the real exchange rates of the country's trading partners. Such indexes convey a false sense of accuracy as they ignore the volatility among the component real exchange rates of the partners. As long as all real rates do not move in an equiproportionate fashion, in a fundamental sense real effective exchange rates are subject to estimation uncertainty. We demonstrate how this uncertainty can be measured and used to enhance current practice.
Governance strategies to remedy the natural resource curse
Authors: Siegle Joseph
Published: June 2009

Rising commodity prices in recent years have deepened awareness of the paradox of the resource curse – resource‐rich countries consistently facing high levels of poverty, corruption and instability. There is relatively less recognition of the autocratic roots underlying much of this curse, however. Resource‐rich autocracies, on average, are subject to lower levels of well‐being, higher volatility, a greater propensity for conflict and humanitarian crisis, and more corruption than resource‐rich countries on a democratic path. The resource curse persists because sharp inequalities of power limit opportunities for corrective action. Recognising the governance root to the natural resource curse dictates that remedial strategies for resource‐rich democratisers should differ from those for resource‐rich autocracies. In the latter, effective reform strategies must increase the cost of rent‐seeking by the privileged minority and improve the capacity for collective action among the disadvantaged majority. While resource‐rich autocracies do not rely on international assistance for budgetary support, they generally must tend to reputational and investment concerns. Accordingly, there is an important role for international actors – governmental, civil society organisations and the private sector – to play in reversing the resource curse.
Social and economic implications of oil policy development in Nigeria
Authors: Rwabizambuga Alexis
Published: June 2009

National oil exploitation policies are generally designed to maximise petroleum revenues. Countries aim to control over domestic oil exploitation to ensure maximum socio‐economic benefits from it. However, not all oil‐producing countries can afford the same degree of control. Developing countries have historically been over‐reliant on commercial stakeholders such as oil corporations and funding agencies to extract and commercialise their oil resources. This dependency often leads to protracted negotiations dominated by these powerful actors at the expense of state interests. With Nigeria as a case study, this chapter argues that the recent dynamics in the global oil industry have restored the influence of the state. The ever‐increasing demand for oil has led to stiff competition for access to oil reserves, compelling investors and oil companies to court any potential oil producer, however marginal. The lack of political stability may be the main explanation for developing countries' limited leverage in negotiating extraction agreements and may have spawn the circumstances in which local institutions are too weak to make any effective use of oil proceeds for socio‐economic development.
The public oversight of oil projects in Azerbaijan, 2004–2007
Authors: Asadov Farda
Published: June 2009

Azerbaijan's rich hydrocarbon resources could bring it up to $US200 billion of income. However, the period for exploiting these deposits will be quite short, and after 2011 the returns will gradually decrease. While the government and people are aware that measures are needed to manage these resources effectively, no mechanisms exist for the government to work together with civil society to exploit this resource in the interests of Azerbaijan citizens. The successful application of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) in Azerbaijan may seem to be a significant achievement but, because of the historical conditions of the country's development, there are basic risks of corruption in Azerbaijan in the expenditure of resources. The Azerbaijan experience of collaborating with civil society is in practice limited to accounting for income within the framework of the EITI. In developing a culture of dialogue with civil society, special significance has been attached to the partnership with British Petroleum to monitor the construction of pipelines. If successful, the development of these initiatives in Azerbaijan can serve as an example to other countries with economies based on processing natural resources.
Doing business with integrity: the experience of AngloGold Ashanti in the Democratic Republic of Congo*
Authors: Kapelus Paul , Hamann Ralph , O'Keefe Edward
Published: June 2009

One of the most prominent illustrations of the challenges and complexities faced by companies operating in weak governance zones has been that of AngloGold Ashanti (AGA) in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). A payment made by AGA exploration staff to a rebel group accused of committing extensive human rights abuses was seen by leading non‐governmental organisations as an illustration of corporate irresponsibility and was used to argue that companies such as AGA should not be operating in such areas in the first place. The company admitted that a mistake had been made, but argued that the interests of local people and the DRC in general are better served by its remaining in the area. This case study argues that investing and re‐entering the DRC during the period of conflict was an incorrect decision and that a more risk‐averse approach ought to guide investment decisions in such circumstances. The company's decision to remain in the area is difficult to assess, though there are indications that it is contributing to improved governance by establishing a local multi‐stakeholder forum and, at the national level, support for the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative.
In vitro evaluation of the cutaneous penetration of sprayable sunscreen emulsions with high concentrations of UV filters
Authors: Durand L. , Habran N. , Henschel V. , Amighi K.
Published: June 2009

Synopsis

The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible penetration through human skin of organic and inorganic filters contained in sunscreen emulsions packaged in aerosol cans, using an in vitro method. Experiments were carried out on two different types of emulsion: W/Si and W/O. This study was conducted using static diffusion cells (Franz cells). The determination of organic UV filters [Methylene Bis Benzotriazolyl Tetramethylbutylphenol (MBBT); Bis‐Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine (BEMT); Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate (DHHB); Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (EMC); and 2‐Ethylhexyl Dimethyl PABA (ED‐PABA)] was performed by High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Therefore, it was important to develop a single analytical method for the quantification of the five organic filters with the aim of facilitating the experiment. The determination of inorganic filters [titanium dioxide (TiO2) and zinc oxide (ZnO)] was performed using an emission spectrometric analysis method (ICP‐OES). The HPLC and ICP‐OES methods were validated. After a penetration test of 24 h duration, the results showed very low penetration only for two of the organic filters (maximum penetration of 1.21 μg cm−2 h−1 for EMC and 0.14 μg cm−2 h−1 for MBBT) and no penetration for the inorganic filters. Moreover, more than 50% of each sunscreen agent stayed on the surface on the skin. These results are consistent with those in the literature that presents similar experiments. This study showed that the sprayable sunscreen products developed, which contained high concentrations of UV filters, presented a low level of skin penetration.
Late termination of pregnancy: a comparison of obstetricians’ experience in eight European countries
Authors: Habiba M , Da Frè M , Taylor DJ , Arnaud C , Bleker O , Lingman G , Gomez MM , Gratia P , Heyl W , Viafora C ,   the EUROBS Study Group
Published: June 2009

Objective  To compare the experience and attitude of obstetricians in Europe towards late termination of pregnancy and the factors affecting their responses.

Design  Cluster sampling cross‐sectional survey. All neonatal intensive care unit (NICU)‐associated maternity units were recruited (census sampling) in Luxembourg, the Netherlands and Sweden. In France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the UK, units were selected at random. In every recruited unit, all obstetricians with at least 6 months’ experience were invited to participate.

Setting  NICU‐associated maternity units in eight European countries.

Population  Obstetricians with at least 6 months’ clinical experience.

Methods  An anonymous, self‐administered questionnaire was used. Multinomial logistic analysis was used to identify factors predicting the obstetricians’ views about modifying the law governing late termination in their country.

Main outcome measure  Obstetricians’ experience of late termination of pregnancy and views about national policies.

Results  One hundred and five units and 1530 obstetricians participated (response rates 70 and 77% respectively). The most common indications for late termination were congenital anomalies and women’s physical health. Feticide was not common except in France, Luxembourg and the UK. Active euthanasia of a liveborn was practiced in France and the Netherlands. Obstetricians in Germany were more likely to feel that late termination should be more severely restricted, the opposite was true in Spain and the Netherlands. In Italy, there was dissatisfaction with current status, but opinion was divided, reflecting views on both sides of the debate.

Conclusions  This research outlines current practice in a difficult and sensitive area and suggests the need for more discussion and support for all those who were involved.
Cycloplegic refraction in preschool children: comparisons between the hand‐held autorefractor, table‐mounted autorefractor and retinoscopy
Authors: Prabakaran S. , Dirani M. , Chia A. , Gazzard G. , Fan Q. , Leo S.‐W. , Ling Y. , Au Eong K.‐G. , Wong T.‐Y. , Saw S.‐M.
Published: June 2009

Aims:  It is common for refraction to be measured using different testing methods in children, with much debate still ongoing on the preferred method. Therefore, we compared cycloplegic refraction measurements using three objective methods in a large cohort of children.

Methods:  We present the findings from a total of 51 children who were recruited and examined as part of the Strabismus, Amblyopia and Refractive error in Singapore preschool children (STARS) study. Each child underwent a comprehensive eye examination, which included cycloplegic refraction using a hand‐held autorefractor (Retinomax), a table mounted autorefractor (Canon FK‐1) and streak retinoscopy. Spherical equivalent (SE) was calculated as (sphere + half of minus cylinder) and astigmatism was determined using the negative cylindrical component.

Results:  The current study sample consisted of 29 boys and 22 girls aged between 24 and 72 months (mean age 52.3 months). The mean spherical equivalent (SE) using the table‐mounted autorefractor (1.03 ± 1.64 D) was not significantly different from the streak retinoscopy (1.09 ± 1.58 D, p = 0.66). However, the mean SE using the hand‐held Retinomax (0.80 ± 1.43 D) was significantly different (more ‘minus’p = 0.0004) to streak retinoscopy. The astigmatism measured using the hand held (−0.89 ± 0.51 D) and table‐mounted autorefractor (−0.83 ± 0.61 D) were significantly greater than that obtained with streak retinoscopy (−0.58 ± 0.56, p = 0.0003).

Conclusions:  The table‐mounted autorefractor provided a reading more similar to that of streak retinoscopy than to that of the hand‐held autorefractor. However, there were only small differences in mean SE (<0.32 D) between the hand‐held Retinomax and the other methods, which will have implications in research investigations of refractive error.
IOL calculation using paraxial matrix optics
Authors: Haigis Wolfgang
Published: June 2009

Matrix methods have a long tradition in paraxial physiological optics. They are especially suited to describe and handle optical systems in a simple and intuitive manner. While these methods are more and more applied to calculate the refractive power(s) of toric intraocular lenses (IOL), they are hardly used in routine IOL power calculations for cataract and refractive surgery, where analytical formulae are commonly utilized. Since these algorithms are also based on paraxial optics, matrix optics can offer rewarding approaches to standard IOL calculation tasks, as will be shown here. Some basic concepts of matrix optics are introduced and the system matrix for the eye is defined, and its application in typical IOL calculation problems is illustrated. Explicit expressions are derived to determine: predicted refraction for a given IOL power; necessary IOL power for a given target refraction; refractive power for a phakic IOL (PIOL); predicted refraction for a thick lens system. Numerical examples with typical clinical values are given for each of these expressions. It is shown that matrix optics can be applied in a straightforward and intuitive way to most problems of modern routine IOL calculation, in thick or thin lens approximation, for aphakic or phakic eyes.
Sensitivity analysis on the all pairs q‐route flows in a network
Authors: Diallo Madiagne , Gueye Serigne , Berthomé Pascal
Published: June 2009

Given an undirected edge‐weighted network in which one edge capacity is allowed to vary, we propose in this paper a polynomial algorithm that needs only two 2‐cut‐trees computations to provide the all pairs maximum 2‐route flow values. Moreover, we provide an extension to the case where k edge capacities may vary, and show that 2k 2‐cut‐trees computations are necessary in order to determine the all pairs maximum 2‐route‐flow values. This makes our algorithm polynomial whenever .
An enhanced exact procedure for the absolute robust shortest path problem
Authors: Bruni Maria Elena , Guerriero Francesca
Published: June 2009

The aim of this paper is to investigate the use of heuristic information to efficiently solve to optimality the robust shortest path problem. Starting from the exact algorithm proposed by Murty and Her, we describe how this algorithm can be enhanced by using heuristic rules and evaluation functions to guide the search. The efficiency of the proposed enhanced approach is tested over a range of random generated instances. Our computational results indicate that the use of heuristic criteria is able to speed up considerably the search and that the enhanced exact solution method outperforms the state‐of‐the‐art algorithm proposed by Murty and Her in most of the instances.
Placement of two‐ and three‐dimensional irregular shapes for inertia moment and balance
Authors: Egeblad J.
Published: June 2009

We present a heuristic for the problem of placing irregular shapes in two or three dimensions within a container, such that the placement of the shapes is optimized for balance and inertia moment and no two shapes overlap. The heuristic is based on a technique that iteratively removes overlap, which has previously proven successful for bin‐packing problems with rectangular objects and strip‐packing problems with irregular shapes. We extend this method and demonstrate its ability to optimize an objective function related to the individual position of each shape. The approach iteratively reduces an augmented objective function, which is the sum of balance, inertia moment and overlap and uses the metaheuristic Guided Local Search.
Accelerating Benders method using covering cut bundle generation
Authors: Saharidis Georgios K. D. , Minoux Michel , Ierapetritou Marianthi G.
Published: June 2009

Over the years, various techniques have been proposed to speed up the classical Benders decomposition algorithm. The work presented in the literature has focused mainly on either reducing the number of iterations of the algorithm or on restricting the solution space of the decomposed problems. In this article, a new strategy for Benders algorithm is proposed and applied to two case studies in order to evaluate its efficiency. This strategy, referred to as covering cut bundle (CCB) generation, is shown to implement in a novel way the multiple constraints generation idea. The CCB generation is applied to mixed integer problems arising from two types of applications: the scheduling of crude oil and the scheduling problem for multi‐product, multi‐purpose batch plants. In both cases, CCB significantly decreases the number of iterations of the Benders method, leading to improved resolution times.
Solving the irregular strip packing problem via guided local search for overlap minimization
Authors: Umetani Shunji , Yagiura Mutsunori , Imahori Shinji , Imamichi Takashi , Nonobe Koji , Ibaraki Toshihide
Published: June 2009

The irregular strip‐packing problem (ISP) requires a given set of non‐convex polygons to be placed without overlap within a rectangular container having a fixed width and a variable length, which is to be minimized. As a core sub‐problem to solve ISP, we consider an overlap minimization problem (OMP) whose objective is to place all polygons into a container with given width and length so that the total amount of overlap between polygons is made as small as possible. We propose to use directional penetration depths to measure the amount of overlap between a pair of polygons, and present an efficient algorithm to find a position with the minimum overlap for each polygon when it is translated in a specified direction. Based on this, we develop a local search algorithm for OMP that translates a polygon in horizontal and vertical directions alternately. Then we incorporate it in our algorithm for OMP, which is a variant of the guided local search algorithm. Computational results show that our algorithm improves the best‐known values of some well‐known benchmark instances.
New Prescription Medication Gaps: A Comprehensive Measure of Adherence to New Prescriptions
Authors: Karter Andrew J. , Parker Melissa M. , Moffet Howard H. , Ahmed Ameena T. , Schmittdiel Julie A. , Selby Joe V.
Published: June 2009

Objective. Describe a novel approach to comprehensively summarize medication adherence.

Data Sources/Study Setting. Kaiser Permanente Northern California Diabetes Registry (n∼220,000)

Study Design. In a new prescription cohort design (27,329 subjects prescribed new medications), we used pharmacy utilization data to estimate adherence during 24 months follow‐up. Proportion of time without sufficient medications (medication gaps) was estimated using a novel measure (New Prescription Medication Gaps [NPMG]) and compared with a traditional measure of adherence.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods. Data derived from electronic medical records and survey responses.

Principal Findings. Twenty‐two percent of patients did not become ongoing users (had zero or only one dispensing of the new prescription). The proportion of newly prescribed patients that never became ongoing users was eightfold greater than the proportion who maintained ongoing use, but with inadequate adherence. Four percent of those with at least two dispensings discontinued therapy during the 24 months follow‐up. NPMG was significantly associated with high out‐of‐pocket costs, self‐reported adherence, and clinical response to therapy.

Conclusions. NPMG is a valid adherence measure. Findings also suggest a larger burden of inadequate adherence than previously thought. Public health efforts have traditionally focused on improving adherence in ongoing users; clearly more attention is needed to address nonpersistence in the very first stages after a new medication is prescribed.
Nitroxyl anion – the universal signalling partner of endogenously produced nitric oxide?
Authors: Martin William
Published: June 2009

Although it is generally assumed that the primary product of the three isoforms of NO synthase is the nitric oxide radical (NO•), growing evidence suggests that the one‐electron reduced form of nitrogen monoxide, nitroxyl anion (NO‐), may be a natural co‐product. Thus, evidence from conduit and resistance arteries and nitrergically innervated tissues indicates that NO‐ exerts widespread signalling functions alongside NO• in the cardiovascular and autonomic nervous systems, and perhaps beyond. In this issue of the BJP Andrews et al. add to this debate by providing strong evidence that NO• and HNO both contribute to the EDRF‐mediated component of in mouse (MMA) and rat (RMA) mesenteric resistance arteries.

British Journal of Pharmacology (2009) 157, 537–539; doi:10.1111/j.1476‐5381.2009.00153.x

This article is a commentary on Andrews et al., pp. 540–550 of this issue and is part of a themed section on Endothelium in Pharmacology. For a list of all articles in this section see the end of this paper, or visit: http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/journal/121548564/issueyear?year=2009
Endothelium‐dependent contractions and endothelial dysfunction in human hypertension
Authors: Versari Daniele , Daghini Elena , Virdis Agostino , Ghiadoni Lorenzo , Taddei Stefano
Published: June 2009

The endothelium is a crucial regulator of vascular physiology, producing in healthy conditions several substances with a potent antiatherosclerotic properties. Accordingly, the presence of endothelial dysfunction is associated with subclinical atherosclerosis and with an increased future risk of cardiovascular events. A large body of evidence supports the fundamental role of nitric oxide (NO) as the main endothelium‐derived relaxing factor. However, in the presence of pathological conditions, such as hypertension, endothelial cells, in response to a number of agents and physical stimuli, become also a source of endothelium‐derived contracting factors (EDCFs), including endothelins and angiotensin II and particularly cyclooxygenase‐derived prostanoids and superoxide anions. These latter were at first identified as responsible for impaired endothelium‐dependent vasodilation in patients with essential hypertension. However, cyclooxygenase‐dependent EDCFs production is characteristic of the aging process, and essential hypertension seems to only anticipate the phenomenon. It is worth noting that both in aging and hypertension EDCF production is associated with a parallel decrease in NO availability, suggesting that this substance could be oxygen free radicals themselves. Accordingly, in hypertension both indomethacin, a cyclooxygenase inhibitor, and vitamin C, an antioxidant, increase the vasodilation to acetylcholine by restoring NO availability. In conclusion, hypertension is characterized by a decline in endothelial function, associated with a progressive decrease in NO bioavailability and increase in the production of EDCF. The mechanisms that regulate the balance between NO and EDCF, and the processes transforming the endothelium from a protective organ to a source of vasoconstrictor, proaggregatory and promitogenic mediators remain to be determined.

British Journal of Pharmacology(2009)157,527–536; doi:10.1111/j.1476‐5381.2009.00240.x

This article is part of a themed section on Endothelium in Pharmacology. For a list of all articles in this section see the end of this paper, or visit:http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/journal/121548564/issueyear?year=2009
Late Quaternary ice sheet, lake and sea history of southwest Scandinavia – a synthesis
Authors: LARSEN NICOLAJ KROG , KNUDSEN KAREN LUISE , KROHN CHARLOTTE FOG , KRONBORG CHRISTIAN , MURRAY ANDREW S. , NIELSEN OLE BJØRSLEV
Published: June 2009

Based on a large number of new boreholes in northern Denmark, and on the existing data, a revised event‐stratigraphy is presented for southwestern Scandinavia. Five significant Late Saalian to Late Weichselian glacial events, each separated by periods of interglacial or interstadial marine or glaciolacustrine conditions, are identified in northern Denmark. The first glacial event is attributed to the Late Saalianc. 160–140 kyr BP, when the Warthe Ice Sheet advanced from easterly and southeasterly directions through the Baltic depression into Germany and Denmark. This Baltic ice extended as far as northern Denmark, where it probably merged with the Norwegian Channel Ice Stream (NCIS) and contributed to a large discharge of icebergs into the Norwegian Sea. Following the break up, marine conditions were established that persisted from the Late Saalian until the end of the Early Weichselian. The next glaciation occurredc. 65–60 kyr BP, when the Sundsøre ice advanced from the north into Denmark and the North Sea, where the Scandinavian and British Ice Sheets merged. During the subsequent deglaciation, large ice‐dammed lakes formed before the ice disintegrated in the Norwegian Channel, and marine conditions were re‐established. The following Ristinge advance from the Baltic, initiatedc. 55 kyr BP, also reached northern Denmark, where it probably merged with the NCIS. The deglaciation,c. 50 kyr BP, was followed by a long period of marine arctic conditions. Around 30 kyr BP, the Scandinavian Ice Sheet expanded from the north into the Norwegian Channel, where it dammed the Kattegat ice lake. Shortly after,c. 29 kyr BP, the Kattegat advance began, and once again the Scandinavian and British Ice Sheets merged in the North Sea. The subsequent retreat to the Norwegian Channel led to the formation of Ribjerg ice lake, which persisted from 27 to 23 kyr BP. The expansion of the last ice sheet startedc. 23 kyr BP, when the main advance occurred from north–northeasterly directions into Denmark. An ice‐dammed lake was formed during deglaciation, while the NCIS was still active. During a re‐advance and subsequent retreatc. 19 kyr BP, a number of tunnel‐valley systems were formed in association with ice‐marginal positions. The NCIS finally began to break up in the Norwegian Sea 18.8 kyr BP, and the YoungerYoldiaSea inundated northern Denmark around 18 kyr BP. The extensive amount of new and existing data applied to this synthesis has provided a better understanding of the timing and dynamics of the Scandinavian Ice Sheet (SIS) during the lastc. 160 kyr. Furthermore, our model contributes to the understanding of the timing of the occasional release of large quantities of meltwater from the southwestern part of the SIS that are likely to enter the North Atlantic and possibly affect the thermohaline circulation.
Risk Factors for Death in Elderly Emergency Department Patients with Suspected Infection
Authors: Caterino Jeffrey M. , Kulchycki Lara K. , Fischer Christopher M. , Wolfe Richard E. , Shapiro Nathan I.
Published: June 2009

OBJECTIVES: To identify independent risk factors for death in elderly emergency department (ED) patients admitted for infection and to derive and validate a mortality‐prediction rule for such patients.

DESIGN: Prospective cohort study.

SETTING: Tertiary hospital ED with 55,000 annual visits.

PARTICIPANTS: ED patients aged 65 and older admitted for infection between December 2003 and September 2004 in the derivation cohort and October 2005 and October 2006 in the validation cohort.

MEASUREMENTS: Primary outcome: 28‐day in‐hospital mortality. Data were extracted from charts, and multivariate logistic regression were performed to identify independent mortality predictors. A prediction model was constructed and then validated in a second cohort.

RESULTS: Nine hundred thirty‐five patients were included in the derivation cohort and 2,015 in the validation cohort. Mortality was 6% in the derivation cohort and 7% in the validation cohort. In the derivation cohort, logistic regression revealed five independent mortality predictors: respiratory compromise (respiratory rate >20 breaths per minute or hypoxemia) (odds ratio (OR)=4.0, 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.7–9.4), tachycardia (heart rate ≥120 betas per minute; OR=3.2, 95% CI=1.6–6.3), cardiovascular failure (systolic blood pressure <90 mmHg despite fluid challenge or lactate ≥4.0; OR=9.0, 95% CI=4.7–17), preexisting terminal illness (OR=5.7, 95% CI=2.2–15), and platelet count less than 150,000/mm3 (OR=2.7, 95% CI=1.3–5.6). Mortality increased with the number of factors: 0.51% for no factors, 3.1% for one factor, 14% for two factors, 47% for three or more risk factors. The c‐statistic was 0.87 for the derivation model and 0.74 for the validation model. Almost 80% of patients in both cohorts were in low‐risk groups (0 or 1 factor).

CONCLUSION: A rule derived from five readily available variables predicts mortality in infected elderly ED patients and allows identification of a large low‐risk subgroup.