bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adoption of an Additional Infant by a Western Lowland Gorilla (Gorilla gorilla gorilla)
Authors: Blersch Barbara Holzer , Schmidt Christian R.
Published: September 2008

A 10-year-old Western lowland gorilla, already caring for her own 14-month-old son, adopted a female neonate. The infant’s mother (aged 7 years, 4 months) showed no interest in the infant, and it is unclear whether she abandoned the infant or whether it was seized by the dominant foster-mother. The foster-mother gave more maternal attention to the adoptee than to her own son but gave both infants the same protection. She adjusted her forms of transport to the age of each infant. The subadult mother of the neonate did not seek contact with her offspring during the first 4 weeks and in fact showed more interest in the 14-month-old male infant. Interactions between the two mothers were rare. The foster-mother’s own male infant died 2 months after she had adopted the female infant. She looked after the adopted infant for 1 year, but then lost interest so that the adoptee had to be separated.
Feeding Ecology of Saguinus bicolor bicolor (Callitrichidae: Primates) in a Relict Forest in Manaus, Brazilian Amazonia
Authors: Egler Silvia G.
Published: September 2008

This study is part of a long-term ecological study of habitat and dietary requirements of the pied bare-face tamarin (Saguinus bicolor bicolor). One group was studied for 11 months in an area of secondary forest in a suburb of Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil. Three main vegetation types occurred inside the group’s home range (12 ha): capoeira, older secondary forest and campinarana (white sand forest). The tamarins ate fruits (21 species), flowers (1 species), exudates (4 species), and arthropods (insects and spiders). They spent 14.3% of total activity time seeking and eating animal prey, and 9.9% feeding on plant material, mostly fruits. In general, fruits consumed were ripe, small and succulent. Trees used for feeding were low and had small crown diameters. Three plant species (Protium aracouchinni, Myrcia cf. fallax, and Couma utilis) were used intensively during the three seasons covered by the study period. The concentrated use of 3 fruit species, each for an extended period (one fruiting species per season), provided the tamarins with a regular food supply. Tamarins consumed exudates from holes in the bark of trees of the families Anacardiaceae and Vochysiaceae, as well as gum exuded from seed pods of Mimosaceae. Exudates were exploited during the dry season and at the beginning of the wet season. Group travel was primarily based on routes connecting the fruiting trees exploited, with foraging for animal prey occurring during travel. Tamarins searched for arthropods on trunks, branches and leaves and in trunk holes. The foraging and feeding tactics displayed by S. b. bicolor are closely linked to morphological characteristics (small size and weight, claw-like nails) that allowed access to energy-rich resources (arthropods and plant exudates) in different strata of the vegetation.
Maternal Differences in Infant Carriage in Golden-Headed Lion Tamarins (Leontopithecus chrysomelas)
Authors: Van Elsacker Linda , de Meurichya Walter , Verheyen Rudolf Frans , Walraven Vera
Published: September 2008

Infant-carrying behaviour was observed in two families of captive golden-headed lion tamarins. Although the young were raised in almost identical social situations, we found a reversed involvement of mother-father pairs in the amount of time they carried their offspring. In one case, the parental division of carrying behaviour was consistent with the standard description for callitrichids in that the adult male was the primary carrier. In the other family, the mother carried the infant considerably more than the male. Comparison of transfer initiations and transfer times showed that maternal choice operated. It is suggested that maternal behavior may depend primarily on the female’s physical and hormonal condition.
Olfactory Communication among Costa Rican Squirrel Monkeys: A Field Study
Authors: Boinski Sue
Published: September 2008

Behaviors with a possible role in olfactory communication among troop members were investigated as part of a field study on the reproductive and foraging ecology of squirrel monkeys (Saimiri oerstedi) in Costa Rica. All age classes engaged in the olfaction-related behaviors. Apart from olfactory investigation of female genitals by males during the mating season, no other potential olfaction-related behavior (urine wash, branch investigation, rump, chest, back rub and sneeze) exceeded 1% of mean behavioral samples. Assessment of reproduction condition appears to be the primary function of such olfactory investigation of the female genital region. The primary function of urine washing is suggested to be the general communication of reproductive status, possibly facilitating reproductive synchrony. Sneezing, rump, back and chest rubbing do not appear to deposit substances active in olfactory communication.
Activity Patterns in Free-Ranging Samango Monkeys (Cercopithecus mitis erythrarchus Peters, 1852) at the Southern Range Limit
Authors: Lawes M.J. , Piper S.E.
Published: September 2008

The polytypic Cercopithecus mitis Wolf, 1822, species is widely distributed in Africa, from southern Somalia in the north to the eastern Cape province of the Republic of South Africa in the south. The samango monkeys at Cape Vidal (Cercopithecus mitis erythrarchus) are found close to (within 500 km of) the southern limit of the range of the species group. We examine the proposition that, due to greater seasonality of climate and food availability at southern latitudes, samango activity patterns define the extent of the behavioural response capabilities of the C. mitis species group, both for the troop as a whole and for individual age-sex classes. Activity patterns are described. Although samangos appear to have activity patterns grossly similar to those of other C. mitis populations, the seasonal and diurnal timing of these activities is influenced by food abundance, temperature and day length. Activity patterns are compared across the C. mitis group, leading to the conclusion that samango activity is not indicative of the behavioural limits of the species group. Age-sex class differences in activity are briefly examined and discussed; age-sex class differences in activity seem to underlie differences in foraging strategy between the classes.
The Phylogenetic Relationships and Classification of the Doucs and Snub-Nosed Langurs of China and Vietnam
Authors: Jablonski Nina G. , Yan-Zhang Peng
Published: September 2008

The taxonomy of the douc and snub-nosed langurs has changed several times during the 20th century. The controversy over the systematic position of these animals has been due in part to difficulties in studying them: both the doucs and the snub-nosed langurs are rare in the wild and are generally poorly represented in institutional collections. This review is based on a detailed examination of relatively large numbers of specimens of most of the species of langurs concerned. An attempt was made to draw upon as many types of information as were available in order to make an assessment of the phyletic relationships between the langur species under discussion. Toward this end, quantitative and qualitative features of the skeleton, specific features of visceral anatomy and characteristics of the pelage were utilized. The final data matrix comprised 178 characters. The matrix was analyzed using the program Hennig86. The results of the analysis support the following conclusions: (1) that the douc and snub-nosed langurs are generically distinct and should be referred to as species of Pygathrix and Rhinopithecus, respectively; (2) that the Tonkin snub-nosed langur be placed in its own subgenus as Rhinopithecus (Presbytiscus) avunculus and that the Chinese snub-nosed langur thus be placed in the subgenus Rhinopithecus (Rhinopithecus); (3) that four extant species of Rhinopithecus be recognized: R. (Rhinopithecus) roxellana Milne Edwards, 1870; R. (Rhinopithecus) bieti Milne Edwards, 1897; R. (Rhinopithecus) brelichi Thomas, 1903, and R. (Presbytiscus) avunculus Dollman, 1912; (4) that the Chinese snub-nosed langurs fall into northern and southern subgroups divided by the Yangtze river; (5) that R. lantianensis Hu and Qi, 1978, is a valid fossil species, and (6) the precise affinities and taxonomic status of the fossil species R. tingianus Matthew and Granger, 1923, are unclear because the type specimen is a subadult.
Patterns of Spatial Dispersion, Locomotion and Foraging Behaviour in Three Groups of the Yunnan Snub-Nosed Langur (Rhinopithecus bieti)
Authors: Bao-Qi Wu
Published: September 2008

Aspects of the behaviour of three groups of Yunnan snub-nosed langurs, Rhinopithecus bieti, were observed over the course of three field seasons from 1986 to 1988. The major findings of the study were: (1) The habitats of R. bieti were mainly at heights of 3,600–4,150 m above sea level. (2) Groups were very large, with group sizes ranging from more than 100 to 269 individuals. (3) Spatial dispersion densities ranged from about 27 to 106 m2/individual during sleeping and resting, to feeding dispersions as large as 5,000-15,000 m2. (4) The locomotor repertoire of R. bieti consisted largely of walking, jumping and climbing. On very rare occasions, semibrachiation was observed, but true brachiation was never observed. The locomotor repertoires of juveniles were more diverse than those of subadults or adults. (5) Communication consisted mainly of eye-to-eye contact accompanied by murmurs; while loud calls were heard only rarely. (6) Groups moved between sleeping and feeding sites in single file. It is concluded that R. bieti is a mainly terrestrial species.
Preliminary Investigation of the Habitats of Presbytis françoisi and Presbytis leucocephalus, with Notes on the Activity Pattern of Presbytis leucocephalus
Authors: Zhao-Yuan Li
Published: September 2008

In this paper the habitat structure and ecology of Presbytis françoisi and Presbytis leucocephalus are compared. Observations were made of the two langur species in areas of southwest Guangxi province in which the langurs occur but are not sympatric. The results showed that the habitat of P. leucocephalus differs from that of P. françoisi and that the habitat in western areas was different from that in eastern areas in terms of vegetation and other criteria. P. françoisi was limited in its distribution to localities at higher altitudes, in contrast to P. leucocephalus. This may be due to human activities such as crop cultivation and logging. With respect to its activity pattern, P. leucocephalus spent 51.8% of its day in the trees and 48.2% on the rocky substrate. The results of this study suggest that Presbytis may best be regarded as a semiarboreal form.
Classification and Evolution of Asian Colobines
Authors: Y an-Zhang Peng , Ru-Liang Pan , Jablonski Nina G.
Published: September 2008

In order to study the differentiation of Asian colobines, 14 variables measured on 123 skulls, including Rhinopithecus, Presbytis, Presbytiscus (Rhinopithecus avunculus), Pygathrix and Nasalis were analyzed by one-way, cluster and discriminant function analyses. Information on paleoenvironmental changes in China and southeast Asia since the late Tertiary was used to examine the influences of migratory routes and range of distribution in Asian colobines. A cladogram for 6 genera of Asian colobines was constructed from the results of various analyses. Some new points or revisions were suggested: (1) Following one of two migratory routes, ancient species of Asian colobines perhaps passed through Xizang (Tibet) along the northern bank of the Tethys sea and through the Heng Duan Shan regions of Yunnan into Vietnam. An ancient landmass linking Yunnan and Xizang was already present on the east bank of the Tethys sea. Accordingly, Asian colobines would have two centers of evolutionary origin: Sundaland and the Heng Duan Shan regions of China. (2) Pygathrix shares more cranial features with Presbytiscus than with Rhinopithecus. This differs somewhat from the conclusion reached by Groves. (3) Nasalis (karyotype: 2n = 48) may be the most primitive genus among Asian colobines. Certain features shared with Rhinopithecus, e.g. large body size, terrestrial activity and limb proportions, can be interpreted as simple-siomorphic characters. (4) Rhinopithecus, with respect to craniofacial features, is a special case among Asian colobines. It combines a high degree of evolutionary specialization with retention of some primitive features thought to have been present in the ancestral Asian colobine.
Quaternary Environments and the Evolution of Primates in East Asia, with Notes on Two New Specimens of Fossil Cercopithecidae from China
Authors: Jablonski Nina G.
Published: September 2008

Primate faunas in East Asia since the mid-Tertiary have undergone a series of major changes in response to a complex sequence of environmental changes. As a consequence of the Himalayan orogeny and the rapid, episodic uplift of the Tibetan plateau, the climate of East Asia during the late Tertiary became monsoonal and thus more strongly seasonal. This led to the expansion of seasonal tropical forests and, in some areas, grasslands. During the Pleistocene, the climatic consequences of continued rapid uplift of the Tibetan plateau and other land masses (e.g. the Qinling mountains) were combined with those of glaciations, resulting in dramatic climatic oscillations between warm-humid and cold-dry phases. The contraction of tropical environments that began in the late Tertiary reached its peak at the last glacial maximum (LGM) and was responsible for the decline in the distribution and diversity of hominoids in East Asia. Cercopithecids, which were only minor elements of the late Tertiary primate faunas, colonized tropical, subtropical and temperate environments in the Pleistocene and were able to reradiate into those environments after the LGM. The abilities of monkeys to populate a wide range of terrestrial environments (eurytopy) contrast with those of apes, which are restricted to tropical forest environments (stenotopy).
The Lacrimal Fossa of Cercopithecoidea, with Special Reference to Cladistic Analysis of Old World Monkey Relationships
Authors: Benefit Brenda R. , McCrossin Monte L.
Published: September 2008

Re-examination of lacrimal fossa patterns in extant cercopithecoids indicates that the last common ancestor of Cercopithecini and Papionini, and hence of Cercopithecinae, probably retained a maxillary contribution to the lacrimal fossa, as did the common ancestor of Colobinae. Consequently, the presence of a maxilla-lacrimal fossa cannot be used to assess the subfamily affinity of Old World monkeys. In addition to being correlated with general facial lengthening, the derived, exclusively lacrimal pattern of Erythrocebus, Mandrillus, Papio, Theropithecus and some (but not all) guenons, macaques and mangabeys may be associated with extreme narrowing of the interorbital septum. Moreover, the derived condition may have evolved in response to independent exploitation of open country habitats as it enhances protection of the lacrimal sac and serves to reduce eye infection in terrestrial species.
Behaviour and Reproduction Of the Slender Loris (Loris tardigradus) in Captivity
Authors: Goonan Peter M.
Published: September 2008

Observations were made on the behaviour of a group of slender lorises (Loris tαrdigrαdus) maintained in the Adelaide Zoo. Descriptions of their individual behaviour, social interactions, reproductive biology and development of young are given. The slender loris displays a more complex social lifestyle than has previously been reported, with huddling, marking activities and the behavioural complex of stretching/wrestling/allogrooming occurring daily. Evidence of the formation of a female coalition is described for the first time for this species. The low reproductive success of the group may have been attributable to the mixing of two Sri Lanka subspecies. Matings between L. tαrdigrαdus grαndis and L. tαrdigrαdus tαrdigrαdus produced one sibling that reached maturity but did not breed.
Kinship and Different Dominance Styles in Groups of Three Species of the Genus Macaca (M. arctoides, M. mulatta, M. fascicularis)
Authors: Butovskaya Marina
Published: September 2008

Single groups with small matrilines of 3 species of the genus Macaca (M. arctoides, M. mulatta, M. fascicularis) were investigated. The aim of the study was to find out how affiliative preferences towards close kin correlate with the distribution of aggression and support in agonistic encounters among individuals, and whether such tendencies differ between species with different dominance styles. It was found that aggression between kin was less frequent than between non-kin in all 3 groups. Kinship was not a decisive factor in the choice of partners for close spatial proximity in any of the 3 species. Animals preferred to groom relatives significantly more frequently only in the M. mulatta group. A kin effect was clearly expressed in the choice of objects of support in aggressive conflicts in M. mulatta and M. fascicularis, whereas in M. arctoides such an effect was absent. In the M. mulatta and M. arctoides groups, animals preferred to support victims, while in the M. fascicularis group aggressors were preferentially supported. Our data supported conclusions about differences in the number of social parameters in species with different dominance styles. In species with relaxed social hierarchies (M. arctoides), there is a strong tendency towards cohesive relations with all social categories, while in groups with rigid hierarchies (M. mulatta; M. fascicularis) cohesive tendencies are largely concentrated in the direction of related individuals.
Sudden Death and Defibrillators in Transposition of the Great Arteries With Intra-atrial Baffles
Authors: Khairy Paul , Harris Louise , Landzberg Michael J. , Fernandes Susan M. , Barlow Amanda , Mercier Lise-Andrée , Viswanathan Sangeetha , Chetaille Philippe , Gordon Elaine , Dore Annie , Cecchin Frank
Published: September 2008

Background—

Transposition of the great arteries with intra-atrial baffle repair is among the congenital heart defects at highest risk of sudden death. Little is known about mechanisms of sudden death and the role of implantable cardioverter defibrillators.

Methods and Results—

We conducted a multicenter cohort study in patients with transposition of the great arteries to determine actuarial rates of implantable cardioverter defibrillator shocks, identify risk factors, assess underlying arrhythmias, and characterize complications. Overall, 37 patients (age, 28.0�7.6 years; 89.2% male) were enrolled from 7 sites. Implantable cardioverter defibrillators were implanted for primary prevention in 23 (62.1%) patients and secondary prevention in 14 patients (37.8%). Annual rates of appropriate shocks were 0.5% and 6.0% in primary and secondary prevention, respectively (
P
=0.0366). Independent predictors were a secondary prevention indication (hazard ratio, 18.0;
P
=0.0341) and lack of β-blockers (hazard ratio, 16.7;
P
=0.0301). In patients with appropriate shocks, intracardiac electrograms documented supraventricular tachycardia preceding or coexisting with ventricular tachycardia in 50%. No patient with inducible ventricular tachycardia received an appropriate shock in comparison with 37.5% of noninducible patients (
P
=0.0429). Inappropriate shocks occurred in 6.6% per year, more so in patients of lesser weight (hazard ratio, 0.91 per kg;
P
=0.0168). Additionally, 14 patients (37.8%) experienced complications: 5 (13.5%) acute, 1 (2.7%) late generator related, and 12 (32.4%) late lead related.

Conclusion—

In patients with transposition of the great arteries, high rates of appropriate shocks are noted in secondary but not primary prevention. Supraventricular arrhythmias may be implicated in the etiology of ventricular tachyarrhythmias; β-blockers seem protective, and inducible ventricular tachycardia does not seem to predict future events. Inappropriate shocks and late lead-related complications are common.
A New Transcription of P. Oxy. 2383 (P69)
Authors: Wayment Thomas
Published: September 2008

Although not listed in the critical apparatus of Luke 22:41-44 in NA27, P. Oxy. 2383 (P69) is an important early witness to the omission of these verses. Since the publication of the editio princeps in 1957 of this small papyrus fragment, no new editions have appeared. In light of recently completed images, this edition offers several significant new and improved readings, while at the same time confirming that this fragment witnesses the omission of Luke 22:41-44. Based on the new images, it is also apparent that the fragment was subject to subsequent scribal correction in at least two instances.
"Simon Son of John, Do You Love Me?" Some Reflections on John 21:15
Authors: Ramelli Ilaria
Published: September 2008

In John 21:15 the much-debated expression αγαπας με πλεoν τoυτων; ought to be interpreted "Do you love me more than you love these things?," i.e. all the rest. This conclusion is strongly supported by compelling arguments concerning grammar (primarily the absence of συ as a subject and the frequently attested use of πλεoν τoυτων in the sense of πλεoν η ταυτα [accusative]), Johannine, NT and first-century linguistic usage (in John and the NT nominative personal pronouns are always expressed whenever emphasis lies on them, even when they are not particularly stressed, and in John the only other occurrence of πλεoν + genitive precisely corresponds to πλεoν η + plural accusative neuter pronoun), context and sense, ancient versions of this passage (Latin, Coptic, and Syriac), and some Patristic interpretations.
Rebellion to Reform in Bolivia. Part II: Revolutionary Epoch, Combined Liberation and the December 2005 Elections
Authors: Webber Jeffery
Published: September 2008

This article presents a broad analysis of the political economy and dynamics of social change during the first year (January 2006–January 2007) of the Evo Morales government in Bolivia. It situates this analysis in the wider historical context of left-indigenous insurrection between 2000 and 2005, the changing character of contemporary capitalist imperialism, and the resurgence of anti-neoliberalism and anti-imperialism elsewhere in Latin America. It considers at a general level the overarching dilemmas of revolution and reform. Part II of this three-part essay addresses four major themes. First, it reviews the literature on revolution in contemporary Bolivia. Second, it explains why the 2000 to 2005 period is best conceived as a revolutionary epoch in which left-indigenous social forces were engaged in a combined liberation struggle against racial oppression and class exploitation. However, it argues that this revolutionary epoch has not led to social revolution. Third it examines in detail the electoral rise of Evo Morales and his Movimiento al Socialismo (Movement Towards Socialism, MAS) party in the December 2005 elections. Fourth, it explores the historical trajectory of the MAS in terms of its changing class composition, ideology, and political strategies since the party's inception in the late 1990s.
Ramsay-Curve Item Response Theory for the Three-Parameter Logistic Item Response Model
Authors: Woods Carol M.
Published: September 2008

In Ramsay-curve item response theory (RC-IRT), the latent variable distribution is estimated simultaneously with the item parameters of a unidimensional item response model using marginal maximum likelihood estimation. This study evaluates RC-IRT for the three-parameter logistic (3PL) model with comparisons to the normal model and to the empirical histogram method (EHM) implemented in BILOG-MG. Results support the validity and utility of RC-IRT for the 3PL model. RC-IRT and the EHM both performed better than the normal model for nonnormal latent distributions and appeared to have complementary strengths. Item parameter estimates tended to be more accurate with the EHM, especially for shorter tests; however, recovery of the latent distribution was better, and scores were less biased, with RC-IRT. Differences between RC-IRT and the EHM diminished as the sample size and especially the test length increased. Practical recommendations for estimating the latent distribution with the 3PL model are provided.
A Monte Carlo Approach for Adaptive Testing With Content Constraints
Authors: Belov Dmitry I. , Armstrong Ronald D. , Weissman Alexander
Published: September 2008

This article presents a new algorithm for computerized adaptive testing (CAT) when content constraints are present. The algorithm is based on shadow CAT methodology to meet content constraints but applies Monte Carlo methods and provides the following advantages over shadow CAT: (a) lower maximum item exposure rates, (b) higher utilization of the item pool, and (c) more robust ability estimates. Computer simulations with Law School Admission Test items demonstrated that the new algorithm (a) produces similar ability estimates as shadow CAT but with half the maximum item exposure rate and 100% pool utilization and (b) produces more robust estimates when a high- (or low-) ability examinee performs poorly (or well) at the beginning of the test.
What Do School Principals Think About Current School-Family Relationships?
Authors: Flynn Gregory , Nolan Barbara
Published: September 2008

This study explores the nature of teacher—parent relations as perceived by principals at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. Participants included 144 principals who completed a survey examining differences in parent and teacher involvement at each level, preparedness of first-year teachers to communicate with parents, and the types of support schools provide parents and teachers to facilitate teacher—parent alliances. Significant differences were found at each level. Recommendations are made for improving school—family relationships through preservice and in-service training.
The Impact of Block Scheduling on Student Motivation and Classroom Practice in Mathematics
Authors: Biesinger Kevin D. , Crippen Kent J. , Muis Krista R.
Published: September 2008

Results are presented from a mixed-method investigation into the effects of Block Schedule on student self-efficacy, attitude, and instructional practices within the context of mathematics. Students exposed to block schedule showed no change in attitude toward mathematics, whereas those on a traditional schedule demonstrated a significant decrease. Students on block schedule also made significantly greater gains in self-efficacy. If reformed teacher practice is a goal of transitioning to block schedule, results point to a critical need for professional development.
Coping With Chronic Pain Among Younger, Middle-Aged, and Older Adults Living With Neurological Injury and Disease
Authors: Molton Ivan , Jensen Mark P. , Ehde Dawn M. , Carter Gregory T. , Kraft George , Cardenas Diana D.
Published: September 2008

Objective: This article compares use of pain coping strategies among older, middle-aged, and younger adults living with chronic pain and seeks to determine whether the relationship between pain severity and coping is moderated by age. Method: Participants were 464 adults reporting chronic pain secondary to multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, or neuromuscular disease. Participants completed a survey including measures of pain severity and the Chronic Pain Coping Inventory. Results: After controlling for clinical and demographic variables, older adults (older than 60) reported a wider range of frequently used strategies and significantly more frequent engagement in activity pacing, seeking social support, and use of coping self-statements than did younger or middle-aged adults. Moderation analyses suggest that, for younger adults, efforts at coping generally increased with greater pain severity, whereas this relationship did not exist for older adults. Discussion: These data suggest differences in the quantity and quality of pain coping among age groups.
Making Environmental Communications Meaningful to Female Adolescents
Authors: Lee Kaman
Published: September 2008

Past efforts in studying environmental communication tend to focus on Western samples. This article investigates factors that are important in predicting female adolescents' environmental behavior in Hong Kong. Data from a survey conducted with a sample of 3,035 female adolescents show that environmental concern was the top predictor of environmental behavior, followed by perceived environmental responsibility, perceived effectiveness of environmental behavior, and perceived seriousness of environmental problems. It is surprising that environmental attitude was found to be the least important predictor of environmental behavior in the female adolescents of Hong Kong. Theoretical and practical implications of the findings are discussed.
An Empirical Study of Forecast Combination in Tourism
Authors: Haiyan Song  , Witt Stephen F. , Wong Kevin F. , Wu Doris C.
Published: September 2008

The performance of forecast combination techniques is explored at different time horizons in the context of tourism demand forecasting. Statistical comparisons between the combination and single-model forecasts show that the combined forecasts are significantly more accurate than the average single-model forecasts across all forecasting horizons and for all combination methods. This provides a strong recommendation for forecast combination in tourism. In addition, the empirical results indicate that forecast accuracy does not improve as the number of models included in the combination forecasts increases. It also appears that combining forecasts may be more beneficial for longer-term forecasting.
Hot workability and microstructure evolution of highly β stabilised Ti–25V–15Cr–0·3Si alloy
Authors: Zeng W. D. , Shu Y. , Zhang X. M. , Zhou Y. G. , Zhao Y. Q. , Wu H. , Dai Y. , Yang J. , Zhou L.
Published: September 2008

The hot workability and microstructural evolution of a highly β stabilised Ti–25V–15Cr–0·3Si alloy have been studied using constant strain rate isothermal compression tests in the temperature range 900–1100°C and strain rate range 0·01–10 s−1. It was found that all the flow stress curves were characterised by a sharp initial discontinuous yielding followed by either a steady state or continuous flow softening with strain. This alloy showed dynamic recovery at temperatures less than 950°C but dynamic recrystallisation at temperatures higher than 1000°C. At higher strain rates (>1 s−1), ‘necklace’ recrystallisation, in which grain boundaries were decorated by finely recrystallised grains, was operative. At lower strain rates (<0·1 s−1), however, a typical continuous recrystallisation with serrated grain boundaries occurred. ‘Necklace’ recrystallisation was associated with Ti5Si3 particles precipitating along beta grain boundaries, whereas continuous recrystallisation was attributed to substructure formation. This alloy showed poor workability at a strain rate greater than 1 s−1 due to cracking or flow localisation. At lower temperatures (<950°C), the poor workability was associated with shear cracking along 45° orientation with respect to the compression axis due to intensive slip band formation. At higher temperatures (>1000°C), it was attributed to free surface cracking due to severe oxidation of element V and the secondary tensile stresses caused by bulging of the cylindrical specimen during upsetting. The cracking behaviour of Ti–25V–15Cr–0·3Si alloy can be evaluated from the critical strain to fracture ϵf. This strain increased with increasing temperature and decreasing strain rate. It is demonstrated that the critical strain to fracture ϵf can be expressed by a single function, namely, the Zener–Hollomon parameter Z, which combines the effects of both temperature and strain rate. ϵf and In Z obeyed a linear relationship. Based on the experimental results, a processing window, which consisted of a temperature range 950–1050°C and strain rate range 0·01–0·1 s−1, was established for optimising the process parameters and achieving microstructural control during hot working. The processing window has been validated through scaled up cylinder upsetting experiments using 140 mm diameter alloy specimens.
FcγRIIB signals inhibit BLyS signaling and BCR-mediated BLyS receptor up-regulation
Authors: Crowley Jenni E. , Stadanlick Jason E. , Cambier John C. , Cancro Michael P.
Published: September 2008

These studies investigate how interactions between the BCR and FcγRIIB affect B lymphocyte stimulator (BLyS) recep-tor expression and signaling. Previous studies showed that BCR ligation up-regulates BLyS binding capacity in mature B cells, reflecting increased BLyS receptor levels. Here we show that FcγRIIB coaggregation dampens BCR-induced BLyS receptor up-regulation. This cross-regulation requires BCR and FcγRIIB coligation, and optimal action relies on the Src-homology-2 (SH2)–containing inositol 5 phosphase-1 (SHIP1). Subsequent to FcγRIIB/BCR coaggregation, the survival promoting actions of BLyS are attenuated, reflecting reduced BLyS receptor signaling capacity in terms of Pim 2 maintenance, noncanonical NF-κB activation, and Bcl-xL levels. These findings link the negative regulatory functions of FcγRIIB with BLyS-mediated B-cell survival.
Management of anticoagulation in patients with subacute heparin-induced thrombocytopenia scheduled for heart transplantation
Authors: Selleng Sixten , Haneya Assad , Hirt Stephan , Selleng Kathleen , Schmid Christof , Greinacher Andreas
Published: September 2008

Anticoagulation management of patients with recent heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) requiring cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) surgery is a serious challenge, and especially difficult in patients requiring urgent heart transplantation. As nonheparin anticoagulants during CPB bear a high risk of major bleeding, these patients are at risk of being taken off the transplant list. Short-term use of unfractionated heparin (UFH) for CPB, with restriction of UFH to the surgery itself, is safe and effective in patients with a history of HIT who test negative for antiplatelet factor 4 (PF4)/heparin antibodies. We present evidence that it is safe to expand the concept of UFH reexposure to patients with subacute HIT (ie, those patients with recent HIT in whom the platelet count has recovered but in whom anti-PF4/heparin IgG antibodies remain detectable) requiring heart transplantation, if they test negative by a sensitive functional assay using washed platelets. This can be lifesaving in patients with end-stage heart failure.
Experimental validation of finite element approaches to predicting the elastic—plastic response of pipes subjected to localized indentations
Authors: Hyde T H , Luo R , Becker A A
Published: September 2008

The elastic—plastic response of pressurized and unpressurized pipes, subjected to localized indentations, has been investigated using finite element (FE) analyses and experimental testing. A visual inspection system was used to monitor the initiation and the development of cracks during the indentation of an unpressurized pipe. The experiments show that the pipe can continue to carry significant increases in external force, after a crack has initiated, until a through-crack is formed. The close correlation of the results obtained from the experimental tests and the FE analyses indicates that the shell element models used in this paper are capable of giving accurate results.
Dynamic characterization of micro-scaled samples using the Hopkinson tensile bar technique
Authors: Leung M Y , Yu T-X
Published: September 2008

Due to the increase in the applications of foils, fibres, and yarns under dynamic loading, characterizing the behaviour of small-scaled material samples at high strain rates has become important. However, owing to the low mechanical impedance and the small size of such samples, the conventional split Hopkinson bar technique encounters serious problems, such as high noise-to-signal ratios, an undistinguishable transmitted signal, a short loading time, and difficulty in achieving large strain. A mini-split Hopkinson tensile bar (mini-SHTB) system has been developed to measure the constitutive relation of micro-scaled material specimens under high strain rates. The system employs polymeric bars of small diameter to achieve a closer impedance match with the specimens. This match ensures a lower noise-to-signal ratio in the transmitted signals and hence allows correct interpretation of the transmitted strain profiles. A series of experiments were carried out on different types and forms of material, such as aluminium foil, cellulose nitrate foil, badminton racket string, and so forth, to verify the applicability of the apparatus. Strain rates in the order of 102 were attained under this mini-SHTB system. The results confirm that the tensile stress—strain behaviour of small-sized specimens, with low mechanical impedance and under high strain rates, can be determined effectively and efficiently using this technique.
Curved and steep approach flight tests of a low-cost predictor-tunnel display for small aircraft
Authors: Sachs G , Sperl R , Sturhan I
Published: September 2008

A low-cost display and navigation system for visual guidance information in a three-dimensional format is presented in this paper. The basic constituents of the three-dimensional display are a perspective tunnel image for showing the command flight path and a predictor for indicating the future position of the aircraft at an appropriately selected time ahead. Optionally, an image of the outside world can be displayed in an integrated form. The low-cost predictor-tunnel display is directed at an application for small aircraft in order to provide this type of vehicle with improvements for guidance and control. Manual control issues are considered with regard to the features of predictor-tunnel displays. Results from flight tests involving curved and steep approaches are presented for showing the performance of the system.
Simulation and prediction of main rotor, tail rotor, and engine parameters from flight tests
Authors: Beaulieu M N , Botez R M
Published: September 2008

In the framework of this research project, the main rotor torque, tail rotor torque, engine torque, and main rotor speed of a helicopter in forward flight are estimated by using a state-space model from flight tests data. The state-space model inputs are non-linear terms made of combinations of pilot controls and helicopter states. The model simulates the helicopter outputs while knowing the states and controls at all times. It was also implemented as a prediction tool, for possible use in an envelope protection flight control system in which the states, controls, and outputs are known at the present time, and predict the future helicopter states and controls following to pilot controls time history. The state-space model parameters are identified by using the subspace identification method, a relatively recent non-iterative algorithm, which constructs an observability matrix from input and output data and uses this matrix to obtain the state-space matrices. The obtained parameters are then optimized with the Levenberg—Marquardt output-error method. A comparison of the results with and without optimization is also conducted. The results show that the subspace method provides a good estimate of the outputs within the FAA tolerance bands and that these results can further be improved by use of the minimization algorithm. The generated model using the subspace method is found to be very good for prediction applications, which makes it a promising model for flight control simulator applications.
Twin-vortex flow physics
Authors: Sharma H , Vashishtha A , Rathakrishnan E
Published: September 2008

In this paper, the formation and manipulation of a twin-vortex behind a flat plate and three circular arcs of the same chord as the flat plate have been studied in a water flow channel. The twin-vortex behind the plate and arcs were captured at Reynolds numbers, which are much higher than that for the flow past a circular cylinder. The reverse flow location downstream of the object is found to be at the tip of the vortices. The twin-vortex size is found to be sensitive to the orientation of the object to the incoming flow. Using the curvature effect of the arc, the size of the vortex can be adjusted. By introducing a curvature, the vortex gets elongated. The two vortices in the twin-vortex can be made to assume different sizes by introducing an asymmetry of the object to the incoming flow. The vortex behind the forward edge (left vortex) is always larger than that behind the rear edge (right vortex). For small values of deflection in the range 0°—15°, the difference in the size of the twin vortices is not pre-dominant, but for deflection angles more than 15°, the size difference becomes large. The differential nature of the vortex size is found to be almost independent of the Reynolds number of this study.
The evolution of jet airliners explained through the range equation
Authors: Martinez-Val R , Palacin J F , Perez E
Published: September 2008

Aircraft have greatly changed over the last decades, mainly due to astonishing developments in key technological areas. The present note attempts to correlate the evolution of jet airliners with improvements in aerodynamics and propulsion. A simple model is elaborated from the range equation, taking the main magnitudes of the payload—range diagram as input data. Results show the robustness and potential of such procedures.
Unmanned aerial vehicle swarm control using potential functions and sliding mode control
Authors: Han K , Lee J , Kim Y
Published: September 2008

This paper deals with a behaviour-based decentralized control strategy for unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) swarming by using artificial potential functions and sliding mode control technique. Individual interactions for swarming behaviour are modelled using the artificial potential functions. For tracking the reference trajectory of the swarming of UAVs, a swarming centre is considered as the object of control. The sliding-mode control technique is adopted to make the proposed swarm control strategy robust with respect to the system uncertainties and varying mission environment. Collision avoidance against obstacles and pop-up threats is also considered. Numerical simulations are performed to verify the performance of the proposed controller.
Investigation of hydrogen abstraction from methyl glucoside by active oxygen species under oxygen delignification conditions. Part 1: Study on the anomeric position
Authors: Konishi Fumiko , Yokoyama Tomoya , Matsumoto Yuji
Published: September 2008

We investigated whether active oxygen species (AOS) abstract the anomeric hydrogen from a carbohydrate model compound, methyl β-d-glucopyranoside (MGPβ) under conditions simulating oxygen delignification in pulp and paper mills (0.5 mol l-1 NaOH, 0.36 mmol l-1 Fe3+, 1.1 MPa O2, 95°C). The simulation involved in situ AOS generation by reaction of 2,4,6-trimethylphenol with O2, so that various types of AOS were operative in the system. MGPβ was degraded slightly more than methyl α-d-glucopyranoside (MGPα) when they were jointly reacted with AOS. Thus, we suggest that the configurational difference in their anomeric positions has some effects on their reactions with AOS. When MGPβ and methyl β-d-(1-2
H)glucopyranoside (MGPβ-1D) were jointly reacted with AOS, MGPβ was degraded slightly more than MGPβ-1D. This difference results from the kinetic isotope effect, indicating that the anomeric hydrogen of MGPβ is undoubtedly abstracted by AOS, although the contribution of this abstraction to the overall degradation of MGPβ has not been clarified yet. MGPβ and MGPβ-1D were also jointly subjected to alkaline hydrogen peroxide treatment (0.5 mol l-1 NaOH, 0.36 mmol l-1 Fe3+, 95°C) in which the oxyl anion radical (O-·), the conjugate base of hydroxyl radical (HO·), is likely only one of the AOS to degrade these compounds. Since no difference in degradation was observed, some AOS other than O-· must participate in anomeric hydrogen abstraction from MGPβ in these oxygen-alkali treatments. When MGPα and methyl α-d-(1-2
H)glucopyranoside were jointly reacted with AOS, almost no difference in degradation was observed. This result suggests that abstraction of the anomeric hydrogen from MGPα by AOS is no more than a very minor reaction. It was confirmed that the anomeric hydrogen of MGPβ is activated towards AOS reaction owing to the anomeric effect, which is in fact a stereoelectronic effect.
Hydrolytic stability of water-soluble spruce O-acetyl galactoglucomannans
Authors: Xu Chunlin , Pranovich Andrey , Hemming Jarl , Holmbom Bjarne , Albrecht Simone , Schols Henk A. , Willför Stefan
Published: September 2008

Water-soluble native O-acetyl galactoglucomannan (GGM) from spruce is a polysaccharide that can be produced in an industrial scale. To develop GGM applications, information is needed on its stability, particularly under acidic conditions. Therefore, acid hydrolysis of spruce GGM was investigated at various pH levels and temperatures. The results allow an estimation of the stability of GGM under food processing conditions and in biological systems. Determination of the average molar mass demonstrated that spruce GGM was stable at pH 1 and 37°C, as well as at pH 3 and 70°C. GGM was hydrolysed at pH 1 and 90°C. GGM oligomers and monomers were detected after degradation. Some of the oligomers contained O-acetyl groups. Monosaccharides were the predominant products in the hydrolysates after treatment at pH 1 and 90°C for 48 h. Pentoses, present in GGM samples as impurities, were released more easily than GGM hexoses. Glucose was more difficult to release than mannose. Traces of 6-deoxy-mannose and levoglucosan were found in the hydrolysates, indicating further degradation of hydrolysed monosaccharides.
Staatliche Institution und innergemeindlicher Diskurs: Politische Entscheidungsfindung in Sparta? (State Institutions and Discourse within the Community: Political Decision Making in Sparta?)
Authors: Link Stefan
Published: September 2008

Die Studie fragt nach den Möglichkeiten und Grenzen politischer Entscheidungsfindung in Sparta. Anhand verschiedener Beispiele arbeitet sie heraus, daß die Spartaner Prozesse einer gemeinschaftlichen Willensbildung nach Möglichkeit umgingen und folglich dazu neigten, politische Entscheidungen zu verzögern oder überhaupt zu vermeiden; war das nicht möglich, argumentierten sie gerne auf irgendeiner nicht-politischen Ebene und beschlossen daher nach sachfremden Erwägungen.

Als Grund für diesen Charakterzug spartanischer Politik wird auf den Zuschnitt der wichtigsten spartanischen Institutionen (und zwar insbesondere den des Doppelkönigtums und den des Ephorats) verwiesen: Offensichtlich war nicht ein einziges dieser Verfassungsorgane mit Blick auf die Frage ins Leben gerufen oder ausgestaltet worden, ob und wie es zu einer geordneten politischen Willensbildung im öffentlichen Raum beitragen könnte. Diesem Befund entspricht, daß auch die Frage, wie die verschiedenen staatlichen Institutionen untereinander interagieren sollten, bis zum Ende der spartanischen Geschichte ungelöst blieb.

Die schon in der Antike sehr bewunderte Stabilität des spartanischen Staates erscheint aus diesem Blickwinkel eher als das Ergebnis von Agonie denn als das Resultat eines bewußten und gewollten Konservatismus.