bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Community structure of land flatworms (Platyhelminthes, Terricola): comparisons between Araucaria and Atlantic forest in Southern Brazil
Authors: Fick Israel Alberto , Leal‐Zanchet Ana Maria , Vieira Emerson Monteiro
Published: November 2006

Abstract.Land flatworms (Platyhelminthes: Terricola) are sensitive to environmental changes and might be used as biological indicators of the degree of disturbance of their habitats. Nevertheless, studies on the structure of land flatworm communities are rare. In the present study, we investigated the terrestrial flatworm communities in two types of ombrophilous forest, Atlantic forest and Araucaria forest, aiming to answer the following questions: (1) Is the community structure of the two types of ombrophilous forest different? (2) Are there differences, regarding community structure, among distinct fragments of Araucaria forest? (3) Are there indicators of edge effects in these communities? The study site, the National Park of Aparados da Serra, is mainly covered, at high altitudes, by fragments of Araucaria forest immersed in a matrix of open areas (grasslands) and, in low altitudes, by a continuous Atlantic forest. We conducted monthly surveys in the two types of forest with three replications per forest type over a period of 2 years. Results indicated that: (1) community structure is clearly distinct between the two types of forest, as well as among fragments of the Araucaria forest; (2) there are no apparent edge effects; (3) the diversity indices of the two types of ombrophilous forest are not significantly different (Atlantic forest—H′=2.87, Araucaria forest—H′=2.55; p>0.05); and (4) there are significant differences in diversity indices between two fragments of Araucaria forest (H′=2.92 and 2.47; p<0.001). The following factors could affect community structure: type of vegetation, degree of human disturbance, and abiotic factors, such as pH and temperature.
The reproductive cycle of the entocommensal nemertean Malacobdella arrokeana and its symbiosis with the geoduck Panopea abbreviata
Authors: Valeria Teso S. , Bigatti Gregorio , Bazterrica M. Cielo , Ciocco Nestor F. , Penchaszadeh Pablo E.
Published: November 2006

Abstract. The reproductive cycle of the entocommensal nemertean Malacobdella arrokeana inhabiting Panopea abbreviata from San José Gulf, Patagonia, Argentina, and the nemertean–host relationship were investigated. The mature nemertean population showed a sex ratio of 1:0.64, with females predominating. The number of individuals of M. arrokeana per host varied from 1–60 individuals (mean±SD=3.7±9.4 mm). Different stages of gonadic development were observed in individual nemerteans. Spawning peaks occurred during late summer and early spring. Sexually mature individuals of both sexes were present year round, possibly indicative of a continuous breeding period. Our results suggest that M. arrokeana has no cannibalistic habits and confirm its entocommensal symbiosis with P. abbreviata.
Predation by invertebrate predators on the colonial rotifer Sinantherina socialis
Authors: Walsh Elizabeth J. , Salazar Michael , Remirez Juan , Moldes Orestes , Wallace Robert L.
Published: November 2006

Abstract. Colonies of the freshwater colonial rotifer Sinantherina socialis (Monogononta, Flosculariidae) have been shown to be unpalatable to a variety of small‐mouthed, zooplanktivorous fishes. To test whether invertebrate predators ingest the rotifer S. socialis, we conducted two types of experiments: (1) Microcosm experiments—in separate experiments, four invertebrate predators (i.e., dragonfly nymphs, damselfly nymphs, notonectids, and Hydra) were offered prey either singly or in combination. Prey were comprised of S. socialis; Epiphanes senta, a solitary, free‐swimming rotifer; and Daphnia magna, a microcrustacean. In each experiment, the percent of prey surviving after 12, 18, and 24 h was recorded. (2) Paired‐feeding experiments—in separate experiments, predators were offered prey in a pairwise fashion, in which members of D. magna were alternated with a rotifer, either S. socialis or E. senta. The results of the microcosm experiments showed that, after 24 h, 60–100% prey items of S. socialis survived the predators, but significantly fewer individuals of E. senta (6–89%) and D. magna (<25%) survived. When offered rotifers and individuals of D. magna simultaneously, predators tested consistently consumed more specimens of Daphnia. However, predators significantly reduced percent survival in E. senta but not in S. socialis. Predators, given a choice between the two rotifer species, all consumed significantly more specimens of E. senta than S. socialis after 24 h. In the paired‐feeding experiments, three of the four predators captured members of S. socialis, but these colonies were frequently released rather than ingested, although in some cases colony structure was seriously disrupted. Our results suggest that the unpalatable nature of members of S. socialis to certain fishes extends to several invertebrate predators, but the nature of the putative factor(s) responsible for this remains unknown.
Characterization of Tachykinin‐related Peptides from Different Insect Species on Drosophila Tachykinin Receptor‐expressing Cell Line
Authors: Fichna Jakub , Poels Jeroen , Broeck Jozef Vanden , Janecka Anna
Published: November 2006

Drosophila tachykinin receptor, a neurokinin receptor cloned from the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster, is a G‐protein‐coupled receptor, which upon activation by a peptide agonist induces a transient increase in the concentration of intracellular calcium. The functional assay based on aequorin‐derived luminescence triggered by receptor‐mediated changes in Ca2+ levels was used to examine and compare the effect of tachykinin‐related peptides from different species. Among the endogenous Drosophila peptides, Drm‐TK I induced the strongest calcium response. The most potent tachykinin‐related peptides from Leucophaea maderae, Locusta migratoria, and Calliphora vomitoria, were partial agonists at the Drosophila tachykinin receptor.
1‐(Azolyl)‐4‐(aryl)‐phthalazines: Novel Potent Inhibitors of VEGF Receptors I and II†
Authors: Kiselyov Alexander S. , Semenova Marina , Semenov Victor V. , Piatnitski Evgueni L.
Published: November 2006

Novel potent derivatives of phthalazine are described as an adenosine triphosphate‐competitive inhibitors of vascular endothelial growth factor receptors I and II. A number of compounds display vascular endothelial growth factor receptor II inhibitory activity reaching that of VatalanibTMA (IC50: <50 nm) in an homogenous time‐resolved fluorescence enzymatic assay.
“Reactive Ethnicity” or “Assimilation”? Statements, Arguments, and First Empirical Evidence for Labor Migrants in Germany
Authors: Diehl Claudia , Schnell Rainer
Published: November 2006

In this article, we scrutinize the often stated assumption that labor migrants in Germany turn away from integration and reaffirm their ethnicity by examining their identificational, cognitive, and social assimilation processes. Using data from the German Socio-economic Panel, we present trend analyses of different hostland- and homeland-related indicators for the past fifteen years. Results are presented separately for first- and second-generation migrants from Turkey, the EU, and the former Yugoslavia. While not all assimilation-related indicators change a great deal over time, they show at least a substantial difference between the first and the second generation. With regard to the homeland-related indicators, the results by no means suggest that Turkish migrants try to compensate for their comparatively disadvantaged social status by revitalizing ethnic cultural habits or homeland-oriented identifications.
Stepping-Stone to Intergenerational Mobility? The Springboard, Safety Net, or Mobility Trap Functions of Korean Immigrant Entrepreneurship for the Second Generation
Authors: Kim Dae Young
Published: November 2006

Much research has viewed immigrant entrepreneurship positively because of its reputed role in immigrant economic adaptation. With the growing professionalization of children of Korean immigrant proprietors, small business ownership is seen as a stepping-stone to intergenerational mobility. To assess whether immigrant entrepreneurship serves as springboard to upward mobility for the second generation, this article compares the educational and occupational achievements between children of entrepreneurs and children of professionals. The comparisons reveal that a higher proportion of children of professionals attended selective colleges, obtained professional occupations, and earned competitive salaries. Results from multiple regression analyses also indicate that entrepreneurship was not a good predictor of college selectivity and earnings for the second generation. Nevertheless, children of entrepreneurs attained comparable educational and occupational achievements as those of children of professionals, suggesting that rapid financial security through entrepreneurship can replicate similar residential and educational opportunities for children of entrepreneurs. While the springboard and safety net functions of small business on inter-generational mobility are salient, in some circumstances, obligations to help out in a family business can lead to personal sacrifice on the part of children of entrepreneurs, constraining their educational and occupational choices and leading some toward downward mobility.
Bilateral parieto‐occipital dermoid sinuses in a Rottweiler
Authors: Bornard N. , Pin D. , Carozzo C.
Published: November 2006

Bilateral dermoid sinuses were identified on the parieto‐occipital region of a Rottweiler. Diagnosis was confirmed by histological examination after successful complete surgical resection. The dermoid sinuses were independent with separate tracts. This unusual parasagittal location can be explained by craniofacial development: dermoid sinuses on the head could occur along the lines of embryological fusion and not only in the sagittal plane. A hypothesis of an origin at the level of the suture between the parietal and interparietal bones is possible in this case.
Vancomycin-Intermediate
Staphylococcus aureus
Strains Have Impaired Acetate Catabolism: Implications for Polysaccharide Intercellular Adhesin Synthesis and Autolysis
Authors: Nelson Jennifer L. , Rice Kelly C. , Slater Sean R. , Fox Paige M. , Archer Gordon L. , Bayles Kenneth W. , Fey Paul D. , Kreiswirth Barry N. , Somerville Greg A.
Published: November 2006

The most common mechanism by which
Staphylococcus aureus
gains resistance to vancomycin is by adapting its physiology and metabolism to permit growth in the presence of vancomycin. Several studies have examined the adaptive changes occurring during the transition to vancomycin-intermediate resistance, leading to a model of vancomycin resistance in which decreased cell wall turnover and autolysis result in increased cell wall thickness and resistance to vancomycin. In the present study, we identified metabolic changes common to vancomycin-intermediate
S. aureus
(VISA) strains by assessing the metabolic and growth characteristics of two VISA strains (vancomycin MICs of 8 μg/ml) and two isogenic derivative strains with vancomycin MICs of 32 μg/ml. Interestingly, we observed the parental strains had impaired catabolism of nonpreferred carbon sources (i.e., acetate), and this impairment became more pronounced as vancomycin resistance increased. To determine if acetate catabolism impairment is common to VISA strains, we assessed the ability of VISA and vancomycin-sensitive
S. aureus
(VSSA) clinical isolates to catabolize acetate. As expected, a significantly greater percentage of VISA strains (71%) had impaired acetate catabolism relative to VSSA (8%). This is an important observation because staphylococcal acetate catabolism is implicated in growth yield and antibiotic tolerance and in regulating cell death and polysaccharide intercellular adhesin synthesis.
Phosphorylcholine Decreases Early Inflammation and Promotes the Establishment of Stable Biofilm Communities of Nontypeable
Haemophilus influenzae
Strain 86-028NP in a Chinchilla Model of Otitis Media
Authors: Hong Wenzhou , Mason Kevin , Jurcisek Joseph , Novotny Laura , Bakaletz Lauren O. , Swords W. Edward
Published: November 2006

Nontypeable
Haemophilus influenzae
(NTHi) is a leading causative agent of otitis media. Much of the inflammation occurring during NTHi disease is initiated by lipooligosaccharides (LOS) on the bacterial surface. Phosphorylcholine (PCho) is added to some LOS forms in a phase-variable manner, and these PCho
+
variants predominate in vivo. Thus, we asked whether this modification confers some advantage during infection. Virulence of an otitis media isolate (NTHi strain 86-028NP) was compared with that of an isogenic PCho transferase (
licD
) mutant using a chinchilla (
Chinchilla lanigera
) model of otitis media. Animals infected with NTHi 86-028NP
licD
demonstrated increased early inflammation and a delayed increase in bacterial counts compared to animals infected with NTHi 86-028NP. LOS purified from chinchilla-passed NTHi 86-028NP had increased PCho content compared to LOS purified from the inoculum. Both strains were recovered from middle ear fluids as long as 14 days postinfection. Biofilms were macroscopically visible in the middle ears of euthanized animals infected with NTHi 86-028NP 7 days and 14 days postchallenge. Conversely, less dense biofilms were observed in animals infected with NTHi 86-028NP
licD
7 days postinfection, and none of the animals infected with NTHi 86-028NP
licD
had a visible biofilm by 14 days. Fluorescent antibody staining revealed PCho
+
variants within biofilms, similar to our prior results with tissue culture cells in vitro (S. L. West-Barnette, A. Rockel, and W. E. Swords, Infect. Immun.
74:
1828-1836, 2006). Animals coinfected with equal proportions of both strains had equal persistence of each strain and somewhat greater severity of disease. We thus conclude that PCho promotes NTHi infection and persistence by reducing the host inflammatory response and by promoting formation of stable biofilm communities.
Defining and investigating occupational asthma: a consensus approach
Authors: Francis H C , Prys-Picard C O , Fishwick D , Stenton C , Burge P S , Bradshaw L M , Ayres J G , Campbell S M , Niven R McL
Published: November 2006

Background:At present there is no internationally agreed definition of occupational asthma and there is a lack of guidance regarding the resources that should be readily available to physicians running specialist occupational asthma services.

Aims:To agree a working definition of occupational asthma and to develop a framework of resources necessary to run a specialist occupational asthma clinic.

Method:A modified RAND appropriateness method was used to gain a consensus of opinion from an expert panel of clinicians running specialist occupational asthma clinics in the UK.

Results:Consensus was reached over 10 terms defining occupational asthma including: occupational asthma is defined as asthma induced by exposure in the working environment to airborne dusts vapours or fumes, with or without pre-existing asthma; occupational asthma encompasses the terms “sensitiser-induced asthma” and “acute irritant-induced asthma” (reactive airways dysfunction syndrome (RADS)); acute irritant-induced asthma is a type of occupational asthma where there is no latency and no immunological sensitisation and should only be used when a single high exposure has occurred; and the term “work-related asthma” can be used to include occupational asthma, acute irritant-induced asthma (RADS) and aggravation of pre-existing asthma. Disagreement arose on whether low dose irritant-induced asthma existed, but the panel agreed that if it did exist they would include it in the definition of “work-related asthma”. The panel agreed on a set of 18 resources which should be available to a specialist occupational asthma service. These included pre-bronchodilator FEV1and FVC (% predicted); peak flow monitoring (and plotting of results, OASYS II analysis); non-specific provocation challenge in the laboratory and specific IgE to a wide variety of occupational agents.

Conclusion:It is hoped that the outcome of this process will improve uniformity of definition and investigation of occupational asthma across the UK.
Economics on trial: the use and abuse of economic methods in third party tobacco litigation
Authors: Max Wendy , Tsoukalas Theo
Published: November 2006

Objective:To analyse how the tobacco industry responded to economic models and methods used in third party payer tobacco litigation that has occurred since 1994.

Methods:Identified 12 third party payer cases and reviewed the transcripts using WinMax qualitative software. Focused on defendant’s opening and closing statements, followed by trial testimony, depositions, and plaintiff’s transcripts.

Results:Tobacco industry defendants tried to create doubt and confusion about whether or not smoking caused disease and by extension led to health care costs; argued that the economic models used were not legitimate and were not appropriate for estimating the costs incurred by plaintiffs; and criticised the data sources used because they did not consist of the individuals whose health care costs were being sought.

Conclusions:Faced with a new and unprecedented wave of anti-tobacco litigation from third party payers, the tobacco industry tried to adapt strategies that had been used successfully in the past—creation of unfounded doubt and confusion, and manipulation of the discovery process to force plaintiffs to withdraw or concede defeat. The strategies failed because credible economic models of the health care costs of smoking had been developed that were able to quantify the damages to a large group of health care recipients, because plaintiff’s attorneys were able to commit significant resources and willing to undertake substantial financial risk to defend their new legal approaches, and because previous arguments related to individual responsibility were deemed irrelevant in third party litigation.
How the health belief model helps the tobacco industry: individuals, choice, and “information”: Table 1
Authors: Balbach Edith D , Smith Elizabeth A , Malone Ruth E
Published: November 2006

Objective:To analyse trial and deposition testimony of tobacco industry executives to determine how they use the concepts of “information” and “choice” and consider how these concepts are related to theoretical models of health behaviour change.

Methods:We coded and analysed transcripts of trial and deposition testimony of 14 high-level executives representing six companies plus the Tobacco Institute. We conducted an interpretive analysis of industry executives’ characterisation of the industry’s role as information provider and the agency of tobacco consumers in making “choices”.

Results:Tobacco industry executives deployed the concept of “information” as a mechanism that shifted to consumers full moral responsibility for the harms caused by tobacco products. The industry’s role was characterised as that of impartial supplier of value-free “information”, without regard to its quality, accuracy and truthfulness. Tobacco industry legal defences rely on assumptions congruent with and supported by individual rational choice theories, particularly those that emphasise individual, autonomous decision-makers.

Conclusions:Tobacco control advocates and health educators must challenge the industry’s preferred framing, pointing out that “information” is not value-free. Multi-level, multi-sectoral interventions are critical to tobacco use prevention. Over-reliance on individual and interpersonal rational choice models may have the effect of validating the industry’s model of smoking and cessation behaviour, absolving it of responsibility and rendering invisible the “choices” the industry has made and continues to make in promoting the most deadly consumer product ever made.
Mortality, morbidity and costs attributable to smoking in Germany: update and a 10-year comparison
Authors: Neubauer Simone , Welte Robert , Beiche Alexandra , Koenig Hans-Helmut , Buesch Katharina , Leidl Reiner
Published: November 2006

Objective:To assess the negative health consequences and associated costs of cigarette smoking in Germany in 2003 and to compare them with the respective results from 1993.

Methods:The number of deaths, years of potential life lost (YPLL), direct medical and indirect costs caused by active cigarette smoking in Germany in 2003 is estimated from a societal perspective. The method is similar to that applied by Welteet al,who estimated the cost of smoking in Germany in 1993. Therefore, a direct comparison of the results was possible. Methodological and data differences between these two publications and their effect on the results are analysed.

Results:In 2003, 114 647 deaths and 1.6 million YPLL were attributable to smoking. Total costs were €21.0 billion, with €7.5 billion for acute hospital care, inpatient rehabilitation care, ambulatory care and prescribed drugs; €4.7 billion for the indirect costs of mortality; and €8.8 billion for costs due to work loss days and early retirement. From 1993 to 2003, the proportionate mortality attributable to smoking remained relatively stable, rising from 13.0% to 13.4%. The smoking-attributable deaths in men is lowered by 13.7% whereas that in women increased by 45.3%. Total real direct costs rose by 35.8%, and total real indirect costs declined by 7.1%, rendering an increase of 4.7% to real total costs. Accountable factors are changes in cigarette smoking prevalence and in disease-specific mortality and morbidity, as well as a rise in general healthcare expenditure.

Conclusions:Despite the growing knowledge about the hazards of smoking, the smoking-attributable costs increased in Germany. Further, female mortality attributable to smoking is much higher than it was in 1993.
Health consequences of reduced daily cigarette consumption
Authors: Tverdal Aage , Bjartveit Kjell
Published: November 2006

Objective:To determine the risk of dying from specified smoking-related diseases and from any cause in heavy smoking men and women (⩾15 cigarettes/day), who reduced their daily cigarette consumption by >50%.

Design:A prospective cohort study.

Setting:Three counties in Norway.

Participants:24 959 men and 26 251 women, aged 20–49 years, screened for risk factors of cardiovascular disease in the mid-1970s, screened again after 3–13 years, and followed up throughout 2003.

Outcomes:Absolute mortality and relative risks adjusted for confounding variables, of dying from all causes, cardiovascular disease, ischaemic heart disease, all smoking-related cancer and lung cancer.

Results:With sustained heavy smokers as reference, the smokers of both sexes who reduced their daily consumption (reducers) had the following adjusted relative risks (95% confidence interval (CI)): of dying from any cause, 1.02 (0.84 to 1.22); cardiovascular disease, 1.02 (0.75 to 1.39); ischaemic heart disease, 0.96 (0.65 to 1.41); smoking-related cancer, 0.86 (0.57 to 1.29); and lung cancer, 0.66 (0.36 to 1.21). The difference in cigarette consumption between two examinations was not a significant predictor of death from any of the causes. A follow-up from a third screening of the subgroup who were reducers at both second and third examinations (sustained reducers) did not have a lower risk than those who were heavy smokers at all three examinations.

Conclusions:Long-term follow-up provides no evidence that heavy smokers who cut down their daily cigarette consumption by >50% reduce their risk of premature death significantly. In health education and patient counselling, it may give people false expectations to advise that reduction in consumption is associated with reduction in harm.
The Tobacco Deposition and Trial Testimony Archive (DATTA) project: origins, aims, and methods
Authors: Davis Ronald M , Douglas Clifford E , Beasley John K
Published: November 2006

Research on previously secret tobacco industry documents has grown substantially during the past decade, since these documents first became available as the result of private and governmental litigation and investigations by the US Congress and the US Food and Drug Administration. Complementary research on tobacco litigation testimony is now being conducted through the Tobacco Deposition and Trial Testimony Archive (DATTA) project. We obtained transcripts of depositions and trial testimony, deposition and trial exhibits, expert reports, and other litigation documents from law firms, court reporter firms, individual lawyers and witnesses, tobacco company websites, and other sources. As of 3 March 2006, the publicly available collection of DATTA (http://tobaccodocuments.org/datta) contained 4850 transcripts of depositions and trial testimony, including a total of about 820 000 transcript pages. Transcripts covered testimony from 1957 to 2005 (85% were for testimony from 1990 to 2005) given by more than 1500 witnesses in a total of 232 lawsuits. Twelve research teams were established to study the transcripts, with each team covering a particular topic (for example, the health consequences of tobacco use, addiction and pharmacology, tobacco advertising and promotion, tobacco-product design and manufacture, economic impact of tobacco use, youth initiation of tobacco use, and public understanding of the risks of tobacco use and exposure to second-hand smoke). The teams used qualitative research methods to analyse the documents, and their initial findings are published throughout this journal supplement.
Does maternal smoking during pregnancy predict the smoking patterns of young adult offspring? A birth cohort study
Authors: Al Mamun Abdullah , O’Callaghan Frances V , Alati Rosa , O’Callaghan Michael , Najman Jake M , Williams Gail M , Bor William
Published: November 2006

Objective:To examine the association between maternal smoking during pregnancy and the development of smoking behaviour patterns among young adult offspring.

Method:Data were from the Mater-University of Queensland Study of Pregnancy (MUSP), a birth cohort of 7223 mothers and children enrolled in Brisbane, Australia, in 1981. The development of smoking behaviours (early or late onset, or combination of onset and prevalence patterns) among offspring at age 21 years with different patterns of maternal smoking (never smoked, smoked before or after pregnancy but not during pregnancy, or smoked during pregnancy) were compared. Maternal smoking information was derived from the prospectively collected data from the beginning of pregnancy until the child was 14 years of age. Analyses were restricted to the 3058 mothers and children whose smoking status was reported.

Results:The proportion of young adults who smoked regularly, either with early onset or late onset, was greater among those whose mothers had smoked during pregnancy compared with those whose mothers had never smoked. The smoking patterns among those adolescent offspring whose mothers stopped smoking during pregnancy, but who then smoked at other times during the child’s life, were similar to those whose mothers had never smoked. This association was robust to adjustment for a variety of potential covariates.

Conclusions:The findings provide some evidence for a direct effect of maternal smoking in utero on the development of smoking behaviour patterns of offspring and provide yet another incentive to persuade pregnant women not to smoke.
A new abelisauroid theropod from northwestern Patagonia
Authors: Coria Rodolfo A , Currie Philip J , Carabajal Ariana Paulina
Published: November 2006

The Argentinean record of abelisauroid theropods begins in the Early Cretaceous (Ligabueino) and spans most of the Late Cretaceous, from Cenomanian (Ilokelesia, Xenotarsosaurus, and Ekrixinatosaurus) to Campanian–Maastrichtian (Abelisaurus, Carnotaurus, Aucasaurus, and Noasaurus). A fragmentary specimen of a theropod dinosaur was collected in 2000 from the middle section of the Lisandro Formation (Turonian?) at Cerro Bayo Mesa, Neuquén Province, Argentina. The fossil-bearing level, which is part of the Lisandro Formation that also yielded the remains of the basal ornithopod Anabisetia saldiviai, corresponds to a reddish, massive mudstone linked with fluvial channel deposits. The theropod identified as MCF-PVPH-237 is an abelisauroid theropod that increases our knowledge about the evolution of South American Abelisauroidea and is the first record of this clade from the Lisandro Formation.
Partial melting of metapelites in the Gagnon terrane below the high-pressure belt in the Manicouagan area (Grenville Province): pressure–temperature (P–T) and U–Pb age constraints and implications
Authors: Jordan Sherri L , Indares Aphrodite , Dunning Greg
Published: November 2006

Metapelites of the parautochthonous Gagnon terrane at the footwall of the high-pressure (high-P) belt in the Manicouagan area (central Grenville Province) preserve an impressive textural record of partial melting reactions, mainly in polymineralic inclusions within garnet. The dominant textures were developed within the pressure–temperature (P–T) field of the continuous dehydration melting reaction biotite + kyanite (or sillimanite) + plagioclase + quartz = garnet + K-feldspar + melt, with sillimanite instead of kyanite in the southern part of the footwall. Inferred P–T paths have a hair-pin form in the range of 750–850 °C and 1000–1500 MPa for the kyanite-bearing rocks. Monazite crystallization ages are consistently late Grenvillian, either 995 or 985 Ma, and one sample contains monazite of both ages. Two of these samples also contain inherited monazite with ages of 1738 ± 5 and 1719 ± 30 Ma, indicative of an earlier metamorphic event. Tonalite and diorite from the same area yield Archean zircon crystallization ages and titanite ages of 961 ± 3 and 956 ± 4 Ma, the youngest in the Manicouagan region. The late Grenvillian metamorphism was of comparable intensity but ~50 Ma younger than in the overlying high-P belt in this area and therefore seems to be unrelated to the emplacement of the latter over the Parautochthonous Belt, as previously suggested. Rather, this younger metamorphism suggests a reactivation of the footwall by underthrusting of the Gagnon terrane during the waning stages of convergence, and a link with a major coeval post-tectonic thermal event farther south in the hinterland.
Metabolic Syndrome in the Pressioni Arteriose Monitorate E Loro Associazioni (PAMELA) Study
Authors: Mancia Giuseppe , Bombelli Michele , Corrao Giovanni , Facchetti Rita , Madotto Fabiana , Giannattasio Cristina , Trevano Fosca Quarti , Grassi Guido , Zanchetti Alberto , Sega Roberto
Published: November 2006

The prevalence of the metabolic syndrome (National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III criteria) and its relationships with daily life blood pressures, cardiac damage, and prognosis were determined in 2013 subjects from a Northern Italian population aged 25 to 74 years. Home blood pressure, 24-hour blood pressure, and left ventricular mass index (echocardiography) were also measured. Cardiovascular and noncardiovascular deaths were registered over 148 months. Metabolic syndrome was found in 16.2% of the sample, an office blood pressure elevation being the most frequent (95.4%) and the blood glucose abnormality the least frequent (31.5%) component. There was in metabolic syndrome a frequent elevation in home and/or 24-hour average blood pressure, as well as a greater left ventricular mass index and prevalence of left ventricular hypertrophy, which was manifest even when data were adjusted for between-group differences, including blood pressure. The adjusted risk of cardiovascular and all-cause mortality was greater in metabolic syndrome subjects (+71.0% and +37.0%;
P
<0.05), a further marked increase being observed with left ventricular hypertrophy or “in-office” and “out-of-office” blood pressure elevations. The increased risk was related to the blood pressure and the blood glucose component of metabolic syndrome, with no contribution of the remaining components. Thus, metabolic syndrome is common in a Mediterranean population in which it significantly increases the long-term risk of death. Cardiac abnormalities and increases in home and 24-hour blood pressure are common in metabolic syndrome, and their occurrence further enhances the risk. The contribution of metabolic syndrome components to the risk, however, is unbalanced and mainly related to blood pressure and glucose abnormalities.
Contribution of Endothelial Nitric Oxide to Blood Pressure in Humans
Authors: Gamboa Alfredo , Shibao Cyndya , Diedrich André , Choi Leena , Pohar Bojan , Jordan Jens , Paranjape Sachin , Farley Ginnie , Biaggioni Italo
Published: November 2006

Impaired endothelial-derived NO (eNO) is invoked in the development of many pathological conditions. Systemic inhibition of NO synthesis, used to assess the importance of NO to blood pressure (BP) regulation, increases BP by ≈15 mm Hg. This approach underestimates the importance of eNO, because BP is restrained by baroreflex mechanisms and does not account for a role of neurally derived NO. To overcome these limitations, we induced complete autonomic blockade with trimethaphan in 17 normotensive healthy control subjects to eliminate baroreflex mechanisms and contribution of neurally derived NO. Under these conditions, the increase in BP reflects mostly blockade of tonic eNO. N
G
-Monomethyl-
l
-arginine (250 μg/kg per minute IV) increased mean BP by 6±3.7 mm Hg (from 77 to 82 mm Hg) in intact subjects and by 21±8.4 mm Hg (from 75 to 96 mm Hg) during autonomic blockade. We did not find a significant contribution of neurally derived NO to BP regulation after accounting for baroreflex buffering. To further validate this approach, we compared the effect of NOS inhibition during autonomic blockade in 10 normotensive individuals with that of 6 normotensive smokers known to have endothelial dysfunction but who were otherwise normal. As expected, normotensive smokers showed a significantly lower increase in systolic BP during selective eNO blockade (11±4.5 versus 30±2.3 mm Hg in normotensive individuals;
P
<0.005). Thus, we report a novel approach to preferentially evaluate the role of eNO on BP control in normal and disease states. Our results suggest that eNO is one of the most potent metabolic determinants of BP in humans, tonically restraining it by ≈30 mm Hg.
Relationship Between Low-Normal Blood Pressure and Kidney Disease in Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Shankar Anoop , Klein Ronald , Klein Barbara E.K. , Nieto F. Javier , Moss Scot E.
Published: November 2006

Current recommendations, largely based on studies in type 2 diabetes, suggest lower target blood pressures (BPs) for individuals with diabetes than for the general population. However, the effect of lower BP on renal outcomes in type 1 diabetes is uncertain. In a population-based cohort of type 1 diabetes adults (mean age: 33.1 years) based in Wisconsin, of which the distribution of baseline BP was in the low-normal range, we examined the relationship between decreasing categories of systolic and diastolic BP and the 16-year incidence of proteinuria (n=232 of 604) and estimated glomerular filtration rate of <60 mL/min/1.73 m
2
(n=158 of 547). Decreasing BP categories had lower relative risk (RR) of developing incident proteinuria (RR comparing decreasing quartiles of systolic BP: 1.00, 0.76, 0.58, 0.73;
P
for trend=0.03; RR comparing decreasing quartiles of diastolic BP: 1.00, 0.81, 0.66, 0.42;
P
for trend <0.0001) and incident estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 mL/min/1.73 m
2
(RR comparing decreasing quartiles of systolic BP: 1.00, 0.83, 0.61, 0.65;
P
for trend=0.03; RR comparing decreasing quartiles of diastolic BP: 1.00, 0.84, 0.82, 0.43;
P
for trend=0.001). These associations were independent of glycemic control and several putative confounding factors. Subjects with either systolic BP <120 mm Hg or diastolic BP <70 mm Hg had significantly lower RR (95% confidence interval) of incident proteinuria (0.63 [0.48 to 0.82]) and incident estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 mL/min/1.73 m
2
(0.60 [0.43 to 0.82]); corresponding population-attributable risks for these outcomes were 26.7% and 29.5%, respectively. Our study suggests that lower BP levels, even below the accepted normal range, are protective against kidney disease in adults with type 1 diabetes. Interventional trials are desirable to clarify the clinical significance of this association.
Separate Neural Processing of Timbre Dimensions in Auditory Sensory Memory
Authors: Caclin Anne , Brattico Elvira , Tervaniemi Mari , Näätänen Risto , Morlet Dominique , Giard Marie-Hélène , McAdams Stephen
Published: November 2006

Timbre is a multidimensional perceptual attribute of complex tones that characterizes the identity of a sound source. Our study explores the representation in auditory sensory memory of three timbre dimensions (acoustically related to attack time, spectral centroid, and spectrum fine structure), using the mismatch negativity (MMN) component of the auditory event-related potential. MMN is elicited by a discriminable change in a sound sequence and reflects the detection of the discrepancy between the current stimulus and traces in auditory sensory memory. The stimuli used in the present study were carefully controlled synthetic tones. MMNs were recorded after changes along each of the three timbre dimensions and their combinations. Additivity of unidimensional MMNs and dipole modeling results suggest partially separate MMN generators for different timbre dimensions, reflecting their mainly separate processing in auditory sensory memory. The results expand to timbre dimensions a property of separation of the representation in sensory memory that has already been reported between basic perceptual attributes (pitch, loudness, duration, and location) of sound sources.
Taiwanese Animal Phonography
Authors: Dauby Yannick
Published: November 2006

Frogs and insects recorded in Taiwan, summer 2005.
One-Day Wave Forecasts Based on Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Londhe S. N. , Panchang Vijay
Published: November 2006

Sophisticated wave models like the Wave Model (WAM) and Simulating Waves Nearshore (SWAN)/WAVEWATCH are used nowadays along with atmospheric models to produce forecasts of ocean wave conditions. These models are generally run operationally on large ocean-scale domains. In many coastal areas, on the other hand, operational forecasting is not performed for a variety of reasons, yet the need for wave forecasts remains. To address such cases, the production of forecasts through the use of artificial neural networks and buoy measurements is explored. A modeling strategy that predicts wave heights up to 24 h on the basis of judiciously selected measurements over the previous 7 days was examined. A detailed investigation of this strategy using data from six National Data Buoy Center (NDBC) buoys with diverse geographical and statistical properties demonstrates that 6-h forecasts can be obtained with a high level of fidelity, and forecasts up to 12 h showed a correlation of 67% or better relative to a full year of data. One limitation observed was the inability of the artificial neural network model to correctly predict the magnitude of the highest waves; although the occurrence of high waves was predicted, the peaks were underestimated. The inclusion of several years of data and the judicious selection of the training set, especially the inclusion of extreme events, were shown to be crucial for the model to recognize interannual variability and provide more reliable forecasts. Real-time simulations performed for April 2005 demonstrate the efficiency of this technology for operational forecasting.
Performance of the Vaisala RS80A/H and RS90 Humicap Sensors and the Meteolabor “Snow White” Chilled-Mirror Hygrometer in Paramaribo, Suriname
Authors: Verver Gé , Fujiwara Masatomo , Dolmans Pier , Becker Cor , Fortuin Paul , Miloshevich Larry
Published: November 2006

In climate research there is a strong need for accurate observations of water vapor in the upper atmosphere. Radiosoundings provide relative humidity profiles but the accuracy of many routine instruments is notoriously inadequate in the cold upper troposphere. In this study results from a soundings program executed in Paramaribo, Suriname (5.8°N, 55.2°W), are presented. The aim of this program was to compare the performance of different humidity sensors in the upper troposphere in the Tropics and to test different bias corrections suggested in the literature. The payload of each sounding consisted of a chilled-mirror “Snow White” sensor from Meteolabor AG, which was used as a reference, and two additional sensors from Vaisala, that is, either the RS80A, the RS80H, or the RS90. In total 37 separate soundings were made.

For the RS80A a clear, dry bias of between −4% and −8% RH is found in the lower troposphere compared to the Snow White observation, confirming the findings in previous studies. A mean dry bias was found in the upper troposphere, which could be effectively corrected. The RS80H sensor shows a significant wet bias of 2%–5% in RH in the middle and upper troposphere, which has not been reported before. Comparing observations with RS80H sensors of different ages gives no indication of sensor aging or sensor contamination. It is therefore concluded that the plastic cover introduced by Vaisala to avoid sensor contamination is effective. Finally, the RS90 sensor yields a small but significant wet bias of 2%–3% below 7-km altitude.

The time-lag error correction from Miloshevich et al. was applied to the Vaisala data, which resulted in an increased variability in the relative humidity profile above 9- (RS80A), 8- (RS80H), and 11-km (RS90) altitude, respectively, which is in better agreement with the Snow White data.

The averaged Snow White profile is compared with the average profiles of relative humidity from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF). No significant bias is found in either the analyses or the forecasts. The correlation coefficient for the Snow White and ECMWF data between 200 and 800 hPa was 0.66 for the 36-h forecast and 0.77 for the analysis.
Evaluation of Radar Rainfall Products: Lessons Learned from the NASA TRMM Validation Program in Florida
Authors: Amitai Eyal , Marks David A. , Wolff David B. , Silberstein David S. , Fisher Brad L. , Pippitt Jason L.
Published: November 2006

Evaluation of the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) satellite observations is conducted through a comprehensive ground validation (GV) program. Since the launch of TRMM in late 1997, standardized instantaneous and monthly rainfall products are routinely generated using quality-controlled ground-based radar data adjusted to the gauge accumulations from four primary sites. As part of the NASA TRMM GV program, effort is being made to evaluate these GV products. This paper describes the product evaluation effort for the Melbourne, Florida, site. This effort allows us to evaluate the radar rainfall estimates, to improve the algorithms in order to develop better GV products for comparison with the satellite products, and to recognize the major limiting factors in evaluating the estimates that reflect current limitations in radar rainfall estimation. Lessons learned and suggested improvements from this 8-yr mission are summarized in the context of improving planning for future precipitation missions, for example, the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM).
Preparation and Fire Retardancy of Antimony Oxide Nanoparticles/Mica Composition
Authors: Li Feng , Jianhuai Wang , Jiongtian Liu , BingguoO Wang , Shuojiang Song
Published: November 2006

Nano-Sb2O3/mica flame retardant composition is synthesized by colloidal and assembling techniques. The morphology and assembled behavior of nano-Sb2O3 on mica are analyzed by means of X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The flame retardant properties and mechanism of nano-Sb2O3 and nano-Sb2O3/mica composition are studied by combustion test, thermogravimetric (TG) analysis, and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The results show that the nano-Sb2O3 particles assembling in nano-Sb2O3/mica composition distribute on the mica surface with smaller size (about 5 nm), higher dispersivity, narrower size distribution and alike shapes, compared with nano-Sb2 O3 prepared by the normal method. The nano-Sb2O 3/mica composition has achieved the same synergistic effects with chlorinated paraffin as nano-Sb2O3, and its flame retardant properties have been improved prominently through decreasing the temperature and combustion reaction rate of the polymer effectively and forming char. When the FRP sample contains about 7wt% nanocomposition (i.e., containing about 0.8 wt% mica), it is self-extinguished once departing from the fire while combusting.
The Impact of Parent–Child Attachment on Aggression, Social Stress and Self-Esteem
Authors: Ooi Yoon Phaik , Ang Rebecca P. , Fung Daniel S. S. , Wong Geraldine , Cai Yiming
Published: November 2006

This study examined the impact of the quality of parent–child attachment on aggression, social stress, and self-esteem in a clinical sample of 91 boys with disruptive behaviour disorders ranging from 8 to 12 years of age. These boys were included in the study if they were found to exhibit various aggressive and antisocial behaviours such as getting into fights, telling lies and teasing others. Consistent with our hypothesis, multiple regression analyses found that the quality of parent–child attachment significantly predicted parent-rated aggression, social stress and self-esteem. Higher quality of parent–child attachment was associated with lower levels of parent-rated aggression, lower levels of social stress and higher levels of self esteem. Correlational analyses concurred with main findings. The results emphasized the importance of parent–child attachment on boys' behavioural and emotional outcomes. Implications for counsellors and mental health practitioners are also discussed.
Laxity Testing of the Shoulder
Authors: Bahk Michael , Keyurapan Ekavit , Tasaki Atsushi , Sauers Eric L. , McFarland Edward G.
Published: November 2006

Laxity testing is an important part of the examination of any joint. In the shoulder, it presents unique challenges because of the complexity of the interactions of the glenohumeral and scapulothoracic joints. Many practitioners believe that laxity testing of the shoulder is difficult, and they are unclear about its role in evaluation of patients. The objectives of the various laxity and instability tests differ, but the clinical signs of such tests can provide helpful information about joint stability. This article summarizes the principles of shoulder laxity testing, reviews techniques for measuring shoulder laxity, and evaluates the clinical usefulness of the shoulder laxity tests. Shoulder laxity evaluation can be a valuable element of the shoulder examination in patients with shoulder pain and instability.
An Empirical Investigation of the Lead-Lag Relations of Returns and Volatilities among the KOSPI200 Spot, Futures and Options Markets and their Explanations
Authors: Kang Jangkoo , Lee Chang Joo , Lee Soonhee
Published: November 2006

This article empirically examines the lead-lag relations among the KOSPI200 spot market, the KOSPI200 futures market, and the KOSPI200 options market, and provides some explanations for the observed lead-lag relations. In general, the KOSPI200 futures and options markets lead the KOSPI200 spot market by up to 10 minutes in terms of returns and by 5 minutes in terms of volatilities, even after purging the infrequent trading effect as well as the bid-ask spread effect. The KOSPI200 options market leads and lags the KOSPI200 futures market by 5 minutes only in terms of returns. The observed lead-lag relations seem to be caused by the difference in transaction costs of the three markets.