bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of the Different Components of 4DVAR on the Global Forecast System of the Meteorological Service of Canada
Authors: Laroche Stéphane , Gauthier Pierre , Tanguay Monique , Pellerin Simon , Morneau Josée
Published: June 2007

A four-dimensional variational data assimilation (4DVAR) scheme has recently been implemented in the medium-range weather forecast system of the Meteorological Service of Canada (MSC). The new scheme is now composed of several additional and improved features as compared with the three-dimensional variational data assimilation (3DVAR): the first guess at the appropriate time from the full-resolution model trajectory is used to calculate the misfit to the observations; the tangent linear of the forecast model and its adjoint are employed to propagate the analysis increment and the gradient of the cost function over the 6-h assimilation window; a comprehensive set of simplified physical parameterizations is used during the final minimization process; and the number of frequently reported data, in particular satellite data, has substantially increased. The impact of these 4DVAR components on the forecast skill is reported in this article. This is achieved by comparing data assimilation configurations that range in complexity from the former 3DVAR with the implemented 4DVAR over a 1-month period. It is shown that the implementation of the tangent-linear model and its adjoint as well as the increased number of observations are the two features of the new 4DVAR that contribute the most to the forecast improvement. All the other components provide marginal though positive impact. 4DVAR does not improve the medium-range forecast of tropical storms in general and tends to amplify the existing, too early extratropical transition often observed in the MSC global forecast system with 3DVAR. It is shown that this recurrent problem is, however, more sensitive to the forecast model than the data assimilation scheme employed in this system. Finally, the impact of using a shorter cutoff time for the reception of observations, as the one used in the operational context for the 0000 and 1200 UTC forecasts, is more detrimental with 4DVAR. This result indicates that 4DVAR is more sensitive to observations at the end of the assimilation window than 3DVAR.
Is Blocking a Circulation Regime?
Authors: Stan Cristiana , Straus David M.
Published: June 2007

The relationship between Pacific blocking and large-scale circulation regimes is investigated. The large-scale circulation regimes are obtained by cluster analysis using the k-means method and tested against significance and reproducibility. Pacific blocking is described using two different methods. In a direct approach, blocking is described by a recently developed blocking index, which is defined in terms of potential temperature anomaly on a surface of constant potential vorticity. In an indirect approach, the occurrence of extreme events is used as a proxy for blockings. Between the two methods there is a causal relationship; the direct one is an indication of the occurrence of the blocking, while the indirect one is a measure of some of the effects caused by the blocking. The results indicate that large-scale circulation regimes are related to but not necessarily tightly coupled to blocking and weather extremes in the Pacific–North America region.
Parapneumonic Effusion and Empyema in Children: Retrospective Review of the duPont Experience
Authors: Padman Raj , King Katherine A. , Iqbal Sahir , Wolfson Philip J.
Published: June 2007

Management of pediatric parapneumonic effusions and empyema remains controversial. Treatment includes antibiotics, chest tube, fibrinolytic therapy, video-assisted thoracoscopy and debridement, and open thoracotomy and decortication. A retrospective 10-year study was done to identify patient selection variables for specific therapies. Charts (n = 101) with diagnoses of empyema without comorbidity were reviewed, a database was developed, and variables between patients who did and did not receive thoracoscopic debridement were compared at admission and during hospitalization. The difference in positive culture reports with video-assisted thoracoscopy compared with medical management was significant ( P < .018). Postsurgical patients used the intensive care unit and had 2 or more chest tubes with greater frequency than medically managed patients ( P < .014, P < .002). Antibiotics, video-assisted thoracoscopy, and chest tube within 48 hours of admission shortened hospitalization by 4 days ( P < .001) compared with delayed video-assisted thoracoscopy done after 48 hours of admission.
Language Proficiency, Development, and Behavioral Difficulties in Toddlers
Authors: Tervo Raymond C.
Published: June 2007

The aim of this cross-sectional descriptive study was to explore the relation of language proficiency, behavioral difficulties, and development in infants and toddlers. Surveyed were 118 parents/caregivers of preschool children (76 boys, 42 girls). The children were a mean age of 27 months (range, 18-35 months), and 32 (27.1%) had no language delay, 8 (6.8%) had expressive delay, 14 (11.9%) had receptive delay, and 64 (54.2%) had mixed receptive-expressive delay. Children with expressive delay were more likely to have social-emotional problems. Those with receptive delay were more likely to have pervasive developmental problems. Children with receptive-expressive delay were more substantially delayed in all developmental domains; they were more withdrawn and more likely to have pervasive developmental problems. When parents of toddlers report problems, especially behavior problems, a search for delayed language is warranted as these children may be at risk for future social and emotional problems.
Leadership, Party, and Religion: Explaining Voting Behavior in Indonesia
Authors: Liddle R. William , Mujani Saiful
Published: June 2007

This case study tests the significance of leadership, party identification, religious orientation, political economy, and sociological and demographic factors in the legislative and presidential choices of voters in the new Indonesian democracy. Data were obtained from four national opinion surveys conducted by the authors following parliamentary elections in 1999 and 2004 and the two-round presidential election in 2004. Bivariate and multivariate analyses of our data confirm the significance of leadership and party ID and the nonsignificance for the most part of other variables tested, including religious orientation, long the most popular explanation for the Indonesian case.
Who Sues Government?: Evidence From the Moscow Theater Hostage Case
Authors: Javeline Debra , Baird Vanessa
Published: June 2007

Courts can better protect rights when citizens are willing and able to litigate in response to government abuses of power. However, if people are not socialized to the possibility of litigating against governments, why do some individuals decide to litigate? Using an original survey of victims in the Moscow theater hostage incident, we find that litigants in a postcommunist context are motivated by political disadvantage, defined as their perception that they are not well represented by political institutions. The effect of political disadvantage on litigation is intensified by the perception that courts, too, are not fair, suggesting that general alienation from the political system may play an important role in the decision to initiate antigovernment litigation in new states.
International Trade and Environmental Policy in the Postcommunist World
Authors: Andonova Liliana , Mansfield Edward D. , Milner Helen V.
Published: June 2007

This article examines whether commercial openness has affected environmental policy in the postcommunist countries of Central and Eastern Europe and the Commonwealth of Independent States. During the Cold War, these countries had closed trade regimes combined with little environmental regulation and poor environmental quality. Since the fall of the Berlin Wall and the breakup of the Soviet Union, many postcommunist countries have engaged in extensive trade liberalization. Some countries, however, have been slower to open their markets, and others have maintained highly protectionist trade policies. Have countries that opened up to global markets improved their environmental policies, or has increasing exposure to the international trading system undermined efforts to improve environmental policy? The results indicate that trade openness undermined a key element of environmental policy in the region by reducing governments' ability to collect environmental taxes and support environmental investments.
Globalization and the Cultural Grammar of ‘Great Power’ Aspiration
Authors: Mallavarapu Siddharth
Published: June 2007

Treating globalization as an initial point of departure to examine how cultures may have a bearing on great power ambitions, one can identify and challenge seven popular fallacies surrounding the concept. Available histories of globalization amply demonstrate that it is not a new phenomenon and secondly, that it must not be simplistically equated with everything western. Further, ongoing processes of globalization suggest that conceptions of what constitutes ‘culture’ and similarly what constitutes ‘greatness’ are complicated and of crucial consequence in ascertaining any correlations between culture and predispositions to great power standing. One should not assume that greatness in conventional international relations usage is inevitably a generic predisposition of all cultures. The notion of an essentialist national culture is highly contentious as there is likely to be considerable divergence of opinion amongst diversely socially positioned domestic constituencies with regard to both the content of greatness and cultural inclinations to greatness as understood in the dominant international relations idiom.
Incompleteness of Post-Washington Consensus
Authors: Montiel Héctor Cuadra
Published: June 2007

The processes associated with the inevitability of globalization are patently not market-driven; there is a social dimension to the so-called economic compulsion. Therefore, neither the globalization discourse nor the general equilibrium model acknowledges the institutional differences and social determinants of markets, because they are presented as homogenous and convergent. The inadequacy of the first generation of economic reforms associated with the Washington Consensus and also of the institutional emphasis of the second generation of reforms of the post-Washington Consensus highlighted a missing social and political dimension. Though their emphases vary and complement each other, no set of reforms acknowledges the vital political character of the situated agents in context, as both generations of reforms are oriented towards the harmonization of policies.
US Democracy Promotion Policy in the Central Asian Republics
Authors: Yazdani Enayatollah
Published: June 2007

The policy of ‘Democracy Promotion’ has enjoyed prominence in United States relations with Central Asia since 1991.The US commitment to democratization of the Central Asian republics is symbolized by initiatives like the 1992 Freedom Support Act. However, in practice the states’ poor record on human rights, particularly in Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan, did not stop the US from aiding the regimes in power to further its own interests. Again, the US believed that market reforms in the national economy would trigger democratic reforms in political life. Not merely did US money and policies not improve the situation in, for example, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, but they helped the leaders to establish monopoly on power. After the September 11 terrorist attacks, the compulsions of the US only increased in terms of its need for bases which has necessitated turning a relatively blind eye to the dismal human rights records of the regimes in Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. Notwithstanding the desire of the US to integrate the Central Asian republics into the Western orbit, it has failed to promote political changes and economic reforms in these countries.
Political and Security Challenges in Central Asia
Authors: Mohapatra Nalin Kumar
Published: June 2007

Central Asian states are facing a grave threat to their security from drug trafficking in recent years. Geo-strategic location, unstable socio-political situation, and emergence of radical parties are providing the leitmotif to the proliferation of illegal trade in this region. In some cases, there appears a linkage between drug trafficking and rebel movements on the one hand and the law enforcement authorities on the other. The problem requires adoption of a multi-pronged approach on part of the state authorities of these countries in combating the menace. Civil society organizations can also play an important role in this regard in raising the aware-ness of people regarding the negative consequences of drug use and trade. What may be useful is a firm commitment on the part of political elite in meeting the challenges emanating from drug trafficking. Augmenting the existing regional cooperative arrangements like CSTO, SCO and CACO is also necessary.
The Specialized Associate's Degree in Teacher Education: Effective Pathway or Degree Proliferation?
Authors: Ignash Jan M. , Slotnick Ruth C.
Published: June 2007

To address the teacher shortage, some states have developed special associate's degrees in teacher education. This article explores the prevalence and structure of these specialized associate's degrees and presents a case for their development to smooth the transfer pathway for community college students who wish to become teachers.
An Exploratory Study of Community College Baccalaureate Teacher Education Programs: Lessons Learned
Authors: Floyd Deborah L. , Arnauld Cheri St.
Published: June 2007

Historically, community colleges have played a role in preparing teachers by strengthening articulation and transfer with university-based teacher colleges, hosting university center programs that provide upper division teacher education courses, and providing alternative teacher certification programming for holders of bachelor's and higher degrees. In the past several years, a growing number of community colleges have expanded their work in teacher education programs by developing and conferring their own baccalaureate degrees. Perhaps because these baccalaureate programs are so new, little has been written from the perspective of the practitioners who have implemented them. Their stories deserve to be told. Drawing on interviews with representatives from 10 community colleges or former community colleges, this article reports the initial findings of an exploratory study of what can be learned from the experiences of community college practitioners who have established bachelor's degree programs in teacher education.
The Impact of a Grant-Funded Project on Selected Community College Teacher Education Programs
Authors: Cunniff Patricia A. , Belknap Mary C. , Kinholt Stephan
Published: June 2007

Recent concern about the quality and supply of teachers in mathematics and science has prompted a rethinking of how teachers in these content areas are recruited and prepared. This article describes a project, funded by the National Science Foundation and undertaken by Phi Theta Kappa, to strengthen the mathematics, science, and technology components of 36 community college teacher education programs. The impact of the program is examined on the basis of a survey of representatives from those colleges and the 4-year institutions that partnered with them. The article also examines the characteristics of 7 community colleges that emerged as the winners of a national competition on science and mathematics teacher education that was conducted as part of the project.
The Construct Validity and Refinement of Process-Based Policing Measures
Authors: Reisig Michael D. , Bratton Jason , Gertz Marc G.
Published: June 2007

Prior tests of Tyler's process-based model of policing have left basic measurement questions unanswered. With a sample of 432 adults from a nationwide telephone survey conducted in spring 2005, factor-analytic procedures were used to develop more valid scales and to test process-based model hypotheses. Regression analyses confirmed that procedural justice judgments affect police legitimacy, which in turn influence both cooperation with police and compliance with the law. When legitimacy was disaggregated, trust in the police predicted both of the outcomes of interest. Obligation to obey, however, was not significantly associated with either compliance or cooperation. Finally, distributive fairness appeared to be as salient as legitimacy in facilitating participant cooperation.
Real-time Hybrid Tracking using Edge and Texture Information
Authors: Pressigout Muriel , Marchand Eric
Published: June 2007

This paper proposes a real-time, robust and effective tracking framework for visual servoing applications. The algorithm is based on the fusion of visual cues and on the estimation of a transformation (either a homography or a 3D pose). The parameters of this transformation are estimated using a non-linear minimization of a unique criterion that integrates information both on the texture and the edges of the tracked object. The proposed tracker is more robust and performs well in conditions where methods based on a single cue fail. The framework has been tested for 2D object motion estimation and pose computation. The method presented in this paper has been validated on several video sequences as well as in visual servoing experiments considering various objects. Results show the method to be robust to occlusions or textured backgrounds and suitable for visual servoing applications.
Recognizing Assembly Tasks Through Human Demonstration
Authors: Takamatsu Jun , Ogawara Koichi , Kimura Hiroshi , Ikeuchi Katsushi
Published: June 2007

As one of the methods for reducing the work of programming, the Learning-from-Observation (LFO) paradigm has been heavily promoted. This paradigm requires the programmer only to perform a task in front of a robot and does not require expertise. In this paper, the LFO paradigm is applied to assembly tasks by two rigid polyhedral objects. A method is proposed for recognizing these tasks as a sequence of movement primitives from noise-contaminated data obtained by a conventional 6 degree-of-freedom (DOF) object-tracking system. The system is implemented on a robot with a real-time stereo vision system and dual arms with dexterous hands, and its effectiveness is demonstrated.
Development of a large area biodiversity monitoring system driven by remote sensing
Authors: Duro Dennis C. , Coops Nicholas C. , Wulder Michael A. , Han Tian
Published: June 2007

Biodiversity is a multifaceted concept that often eludes simple operational definitions. As a result, a variety of definitions have been proposed each with varying levels of complexity and scope. While different definitions of biodiversity exist, the basic unit of measurement for the vast majority of studies is conducted at the species level. Traditional approaches to measuring species richness provide useful, yet spatially constrained information. Remote sensing offers the opportunity for large area characterizations of biodiversity in a systematic, repeatable, and spatially exhaustive manner. Based on this review we examine the potential for a national biodiversity monitoring system for Canada driven by remote sensing, a country approaching 1 billion ha in area, with the aim of producing recommendations that are transferable for regional or continental applications. A combination of direct and indirect approaches is proposed, with four selected key indicators of diversity that can be derived from Earth observation data: productivity, disturbance, topography, and land cover. Monitoring these indicators through time at an ecosystem level has the potential to provide a national early warning system, indicating where areas of potential biodiversity change may be occurring. We believe the large area biodiversity monitoring system as outlined would provide an initial stratification of key areas where regional and local scale analysis can be focused, while also providing context-specific information for species collection data.
Further Factorial Validity of a Scale of Therapist Theoretical Orientation
Authors: Coleman Daniel
Published: June 2007

Objective: To test the original factor structure of the Theoretical Evaluation Self Test (TEST) and to assess alternate factor structures. TEST includes the major psychotherapy theories (cognitive-behavioral, family, humanistic, and psychodynamic), ecosystemic and pragmatic approaches, and a cultural competency orientation. Method: Composing the replication sample are 146 MSW students and 32 practicing clinicians. Some analyses also include a previously collected sample ( n = 130). Results: Five of the six original subscales are replicated by exploratory factor analysis and by assessing factor congruence. A four-factor solution is a better fit in confirmatory factor analysis. Conclusions: The six-factor solution, with its traditional theoretical divisions, is recommended for use as a self-scoring educational tool. However, the statistically stronger four-factor solution is preferable for research applications.
A Systematic Review of Depression Treatments in Primary Care for Latino Adults
Authors: Cabassa Leopoldo J. , Hansen Marissa C.
Published: June 2007

Objective: A systematic literature review of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) assessing depression treatments in primary care for Latinos is conducted. The authors rate the methodological quality of studies, examine cultural and linguistic adaptations, summarize clinical outcomes and cost-effectiveness findings, and draw conclusions for improving depression care among this diverse population. Method: Electronic bibliographic databases, Web sites, and manual searches are used to identify nine peer-reviewed articles covering four RCTs. Results: Across trials, collaborative care models were more effective than usual care in reducing depression and improving functioning and accessibility to guideline-congruent care. Conclusion: The use of evidence-based treatments in primary care seems to be an effective and cost-effective strategy to reduce mental health care disparities among Latinos served in primary care.
Assessing Progress Toward Accreditation Related Objectives: Evidence Regarding the Use of Self-Efficacy as an Outcome in the Advanced Concentration Research Curriculum
Authors: Holden Gary , Barker Kathleen , Rosenberg Gary , Onghena Patrick
Published: June 2007

Objective: Assessing the achievement of social work educational outcomes is a requirement of the Council on Social Work Education's Educational Policy and Standards (EPAS). The Evaluation Self-Efficacy Scale (ESE) was created to assess student progress in advanced concentration courses focused on evaluation and thereby provide data regarding attainment of EPAS-related objectives. Method: This social cognitive theory—derived scale was pretested, revised, and then used with a final sample of 85 master's-level students in a single-group, pretest-posttest-retrospective pretest study. Results: Cronbach alphas for the ESE were .94 or greater. Evidence of both content and construct validity was obtained. Conclusion: The results provide evidence that supports the psychometric properties of data obtained using the ESE.
Empirically Supported Psychotherapy in Social Work Training Programs: Does the Definition of Evidence Matter?
Authors: Bledsoe Sarah E. , Weissman Myrna M. , Mullen Edward J. , Ponniah Kathryn , Gameroff Marc J. , Verdeli Helen , Mufson Laura , Fitterling Heidi , Wickramaratne Priya
Published: June 2007

Objectives: A national survey finds that 62% of social work programs do not require didactic and clinical supervision in any empirically supported psychotherapy (EST). The authors report the results of analysis of national survey data using two alternative classifications of EST to determine if the results are because of the definition of EST used in the national survey. Method: Psychotherapies in the national survey are classified by three definitions of EST. Data are weighted to provide estimates generalizable to the population of social work programs. Results: The classification of EST does not have a major impact on the findings of the national survey. The national survey definition produce estimates of training in any EST in social work that fall between the two alternate definitions. Conclusions: Regardless of which definition is used, the data clearly show that the majority of social work programs offer little training in EST.
Sliding Mode Control of a Finger for a Prosthetic Hand
Authors: Yagiz Nurkan , Arslan Yunus Ziya , Hacioglu Yuksel
Published: June 2007

A prosthetic finger model, intended to imitate a real human hand and for use in replacing the real index finger of an amputee, is designed using tendons instead of joint motors. A dynamic model of the prosthetic finger model is developed, and a non-chattering robust sliding mode control is applied to make the model follow a certain trajectory. Trajectory planning of the finger model is based on images of the closing motion of a human hand, and time varying reference joint angles are obtained using these images. The robustness of the controller is confirmed by introducing an unexpected sudden joint friction induced in the prosthetic finger.
Optimal Control of Smart Functionally Graded Plates Using Piezoelectric Fiber Reinforced Composites
Authors: Reddy B.A. , Ray M.C.
Published: June 2007

A closed form solution is obtained for the optimal control of vibrations of simply supported thin functionally graded (FG) plates integrated with a Piezoelectric sensor layer and a piezoelectric fiber reinforced composite (PFRC) actuator layer. The material properties of the FG plate are graded in the thickness direction according to a simple power law distribution in terms of the volume fraction of the constituents. The dmethod employed is the design of an optimal steady state regulator with output feedback. Results for various design parameters are illustrated. Particular attention has been focused on investigating the effect of varying the volume fraction index and the placement of the PFRC actuator on the softest and stiffest sides of the FG plate.
Frequency Characteristics of a Flexible Hub-beam System with Arbitrary Settling Position of Attached Mass
Authors: Teng You-You , Cai Guo-Ping
Published: June 2007

In this article, the frequency characteristics of a flexible hub-beam system with an attached mass in an arbitrary position are investigated using a first-order approximation coupling (FOAC) model. Three kinds of damping are considered in the model: Damping located at the hub bearing, structural damping caused by the beam material, and damping caused by the air. Cases with both known and unknown large motion of the system are considered. First, the FOAC model is presented with an unknown large motion, using the Hamilton principle and finite element discretization method. Then the dynamic equation for a non-inertial system is presented by neglecting the large motion of the system, and the frequency characteristics of the system are studied using numerical simulations. Simulation results indicate that, for the case with a known large motion, the response frequency of the beam is degressive as the settling position of the mass moves from the fixed end to the free end of the beam. The response frequency of the beam decreases with increasing inertia of the hub. Damping affects only the dynamical equilibrium position of the flexible beam and has little effect on the response frequency of the beam. For the case with an unknown large motion, the response frequency of the beam does not show an obvious degressive trend as the settling position of the mass moves from the fixed end to the mid-point of the beam, but it becomes degressive when the mass moves from the mid-point to the free end of the beam. Damping affects not only the final position of the system, but also the vibration amplitude of the flexible beam. However, the response frequency of the beam is barely affected by the damping.
A Randomized Trial of Targeted Educational Materials for Smoking Cessation in African Americans Using Transdermal Nicotine
Authors: Nollen Nicole , Ahluwalia Jasjit S. , Mayo Matthew S. , Richter Kim , Choi Won S. , Okuyemi Kolawole S. , Resnicow Ken
Published: June 2007

This study examines the efficacy of targeted versus standard care smoking cessation materials among urban African American smokers. Five hundred smokers (250 to each group) are randomized to receive a culturally targeted or standard care videotape and print guide. Both groups receive 8 weeks of nicotine patches and reminder telephone calls at Weeks 1 and 3. Process outcomes include material use and salience at 1 and 4 weeks postbaseline. Smoking outcomes include 7-day abstinence, smoking reduction, and readiness to quit at 4 weeks and 6 months postbaseline. Despite greater use of the targeted guide (68.8% vs. 59.6%, p < .05), intervention participants do not perceive the targeted materials as more salient, and no significant differences are found between groups on the smoking outcomes. Findings point to the importance of greater audience segmentation and individual tailoring to better match intervention materials to the needs of the priority population.
Management as Negotiation at the Interface: Moving Beyond the Critical—Practice Impasse
Authors: Hotho Sabine , Pollard David
Published: June 2007

The seemingly marginal contribution of management theory to management practice has been commented on in different contexts. Specifically, critical management studies (CMS) seems suspended in an impasse between the aim to critique dominant management practice and discourse, and the expectation to facilitate transformative management action. This paper argues that the theory—practice impasse may, in part, be a result of reductivist perspectives discursively produced by both mainstream and critical management studies. To illustrate this argument, the paper refers to a case study exploring middle management practice in the higher education context. It demonstrates that academic middle management practice as constructed by polarized and polarizing discourses of either managerial or critical orientation is counterproductive to a full understanding of this practice and the contribution it can make to organizations if properly understood, and proposes an alternative reading aimed to `cross the divide' between discourses and between theory and practice. It is proposed that a more constructive engagement with multiple rationalities can move towards a more comprehensive understanding of currently marginalized management activity, and, from there, towards a more productive link between theory and practice.
Conceptualizing and evaluating the functions of destination marketing systems
Authors: Wang Youcheng , Russo Shirley Monnette
Published: June 2007

This research attempts to propose a conceptual framework in relation to the functions of destination marketing systems (DMS). In addition, efforts are also made to evaluate the effectiveness of each of the functions of the DMS. The objectives of the research are achieved by taking web-based marketing systems of convention and visitor bureaus in the USA as the focus of investigation. It is proposed that a DMS should be composed of four interrelated components: virtual information space (VIS), virtual communication space (VCS), virtual transaction space (VTS), and virtual relationship space (VRS), alternatively termed as the ICTR model. The analysis of the applications in the four components of DMS seems to suggest that destination marketing systems are still in the preliminary stages of development, showing a hierarchical progression of usage and sophistication. It appears that convention and visitor bureaus (CVBs) are performing well in providing and incorporating information-oriented applications but are weak in applications related to transaction and relationship building. The effectiveness analysis of the applications in the four components has also raised issues of serious concern. Suggestions and implications are provided and discussed.
An exploration of the public face of indigenous cultural tourism in the Australian media
Authors: Spennemann Dirk H.R. , Clancy Laura , Thwaites Rik
Published: June 2007

While there is considerable interest in Indigenous Cultural Tourism (ICT) in southeastern Australia the extent to which the public is actually exposed to information on ICT products remained unknown. To assess the frequency of information provided, a range of Australian newspapers, magazines and television shows was examined for ICT content. Covering the period 2003—04, the study found that Australian tourism products were well covered with on average one item per issue/ show. On the other hand, ICT products figured only once in every 25 newspaper issues and once in every 13—14 magazine issues/television shows. Compounding that low representation, the study found that ICT products located in the Northern Territory dominate the media coverage at the expense of local and in-state products. The study concludes that current approaches are not working and that the industry should engage in the strategic hosting of visiting journalist programs and media familiarization events
Impact of Structural Adjustment Programmes on Overall Social Welfare in Pakistan
Authors: Gera Nina
Published: June 2007

This article discusses the impact of structural adjustment on poverty and inequality and overall social welfare in Pakistan over the adjustment decade (1988–99) based on household surveys. It provides an indepth analysis of poverty during the adjustment decade as well as an account of structural adjustment programmes and macro-economic policies. The article argues that adjustment programmes have been flawed by a lack of distributional analysis and by poor sequencing of reforms, notably premature financial liberalization. The conditionality of reduction of the budget deficit has led to expenditure cuts which have adversely affected the poorer sections of society. The findings show that since the 1988 bout of structural adjustment, public sector employment decreased while wages were frozen. Also, overall unemployment in occupations with a high incidence of poverty has increased and the real wages of both skilled and unskilled labour fell sharply. Overall, the likely impact of structural adjustment policies on labour and the poor presents a bleak scenario.
Ironing out a therapy for Friedreich ataxia
Authors: Isaya Grazia
Published: June 2007

Boddaert and colleagues show the positive effects of selective iron chelation in young patients with Friedreich ataxia, a devastating inborn error of mitochondrial iron metabolism.
Molecular determinants of caste differentiation in the highly eusocial honeybee Apis mellifera
Authors: Barchuk Angel R , Cristino Alexandre S , Kucharski Robert , Costa Luciano F , Simões Zilá LP , Maleszka Ryszard
Published: June 2007

Background

In honeybees, differential feeding of female larvae promotes the occurrence of two different phenotypes, a queen and a worker, from identical genotypes, through incremental alterations, which affect general growth, and character state alterations that result in the presence or absence of specific structures. Although previous studies revealed a link between incremental alterations and differential expression of physiometabolic genes, the molecular changes accompanying character state alterations remain unknown.

Results

By using cDNA microarray analyses of >6,000 Apis mellifera ESTs, we found 240 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between developing queens and workers. Many genes recorded as up-regulated in prospective workers appear to be unique to A. mellifera, suggesting that the workers' developmental pathway involves the participation of novel genes. Workers up-regulate more developmental genes than queens, whereas queens up-regulate a greater proportion of physiometabolic genes, including genes coding for metabolic enzymes and genes whose products are known to regulate the rate of mass-transforming processes and the general growth of the organism (e.g., tor). Many DEGs are likely to be involved in processes favoring the development of caste-biased structures, like brain, legs and ovaries, as well as genes that code for cytoskeleton constituents. Treatment of developing worker larvae with juvenile hormone (JH) revealed 52 JH responsive genes, specifically during the critical period of caste development. Using Gibbs sampling and Expectation Maximization algorithms, we discovered eight overrepresented cis-elements from four gene groups. Graph theory and complex networks concepts were adopted to attain powerful graphical representations of the interrelation between cis-elements and genes and objectively quantify the degree of relationship between these entities.

Conclusion

We suggest that clusters of functionally related DEGs are co-regulated during caste development in honeybees. This network of interactions is activated by nutrition-driven stimuli in early larval stages. Our data are consistent with the hypothesis that JH is a key component of the developmental determination of queen-like characters. Finally, we propose a conceptual model of caste differentiation in A. mellifera based on gene-regulatory networks.
Monitoring of transcriptional regulation in Pichia pastoris under protein production conditions
Authors: Gasser Brigitte , Maurer Michael , Rautio Jari , Sauer Michael , Bhattacharyya Anamitra , Saloheimo Markku , Penttilä Merja , Mattanovich Diethard
Published: June 2007

Background

It has become evident that host cells react to recombinant protein production with a variety of metabolic and intrinsic stresses such as the unfolded protein response (UPR) pathway. Additionally, environmental conditions such as growth temperature may have a strong impact on cell physiology and specific productivity. However, there is little information about the molecular reactions of the host cells on a genomic level, especially in context to recombinant protein secretion. For the first time, we monitored transcriptional regulation of a subset of marker genes in the common production host Pichia pastoris to gain insights into the general physiological status of the cells under protein production conditions, with the main focus on secretion stress related genes.

Results

Overexpression of the UPR activating transcription factor Hac1p was employed to identify UPR target genes in P. pastoris and the responses were compared to those known for Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Most of the folding/secretion related genes showed similar regulation patterns in both yeasts, whereas genes associated with the general stress response were differentially regulated. Secretion of an antibody Fab fragment led to induction of UPR target genes in P. pastoris, however not to the same magnitude as Hac1p overproduction. Overexpression of S. cerevisiae protein disulfide isomerase (PDI1) enhances Fab secretion rates 1.9 fold, but did not relief UPR stress. Reduction of cultivation temperature from 25°C to 20°C led to a 1.4-fold increase of specific product secretion rate in chemostat cultivations, although the transcriptional levels of the product genes (Fab light and heavy chain) were significantly reduced at the lower temperature. A subset of folding related genes appeared to be down-regulated at the reduced temperature, whereas transcription of components of the ER associated degradation and the secretory transport was enhanced.

Conclusion

Monitoring of genomic regulation of marker genes with the transcriptional profiling method TRAC in P. pastoris revealed similarities and discrepancies of the responses compared to S. cerevisiae. Thus our results emphasize the importance to analyse the individual hosts under real production conditions instead of drawing conclusions from model organisms. Cultivation temperature has a significant influence on specific productivity that cannot be related just to thermodynamic effects, but strongly impacts the regulation of specific genes.
A predictive model relating daily fluctuations in summer temperatures and mortality rates
Authors: Fouillet Anne , Rey Grégoire , Jougla Eric , Frayssinet Philippe , Bessemoulin Pierre , Hémon Denis
Published: June 2007

Background

In the context of climate change, an efficient alert system to prevent the risk associated with summer heat is necessary. The authors' objective was to describe the temperature-mortality relationship in France over a 29-year period and to define and validate a combination of temperature factors enabling optimum prediction of the daily fluctuations in summer mortality.

Methods

The study addressed the daily mortality rates of subjects aged over 55 years, in France as a whole, from 1975 to 2003. The daily minimum and maximum temperatures consisted in the average values recorded by 97 meteorological stations. For each day, a cumulative variable for the maximum temperature over the preceding 10 days was defined.

The mortality rate was modelled using a Poisson regression with over-dispersion and a first-order autoregressive structure and with control for long-term and within-summer seasonal trends. The lag effects of temperature were accounted for by including the preceding 5 days. A "backward" method was used to select the most significant climatic variables. The predictive performance of the model was assessed by comparing the observed and predicted daily mortality rates on a validation period (summer 2003), which was distinct from the calibration period (1975–2002) used to estimate the model.

Results

The temperature indicators explained 76% of the total over-dispersion. The greater part of the daily fluctuations in mortality was explained by the interaction between minimum and maximum temperatures, for a day t and the day preceding it. The prediction of mortality during extreme events was greatly improved by including the cumulative variables for maximum temperature, in interaction with the maximum temperatures. The correlation between the observed and estimated mortality ratios was 0.88 in the final model.

Conclusion

Although France is a large country with geographic heterogeneity in both mortality and temperatures, a strong correlation between the daily fluctuations in mortality and the temperatures in summer on a national scale was observed. The model provided a satisfactory quantitative prediction of the daily mortality both for the days with usual temperatures and for the days during intense heat episodes. The results may contribute to enhancing the alert system for intense heat waves.
Oral squamous cell carcinoma proliferative phenotype is modulated by proanthocyanidins: a potential prevention and treatment alternative for oral cancer
Authors: King Michael , Chatelain Kourt , Farris Dustin , Jensen Dayne , Pickup Jason , Swapp Aaron , O'Malley Susan , Kingsley Karl
Published: June 2007

Background

Despite the recently reported drop in the overall death rate from cancer, the estimated survival rate and number of deaths from oral cancer remain virtually unchanged. Early detection efforts, in combination with strategies for prevention and risk-reduction, have the potential to dramatically improve clinical outcomes. The identification of non-toxic, effective treatments, including complementary and alternative therapies, is critical if the survival rate is to be improved. Epidemiologic studies have suggested a protective effect from certain plant-derived foods and extracts; however, it has been difficult to isolate and identify the compounds most responsible for these observations. The primary purpose of this study was to investigate the response of human oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) to proanthocyanidin (PAC), a plant-derived compound that may inhibit the progression of several other cancers.

Methods

Using a series ofin vitroassays, we sought to quantify the effects of PAC on OSCC, cervical carcinoma, and non-cancerous cell lines, specifically the effects of PAC on cell proliferation. Recent data suggest that infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV) may also modulate the proliferative potential of OSCC; therefore, we also measured the effects of PAC administration on HPV-transfected OSCC proliferation.

Results

Our results demonstrated that PAC administration was sufficient to significantly suppress cellular proliferation of OSCC in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, the increased proliferation of OSCC after transfection with HPV 16 was reduced by the administration of PAC, as was the proliferation of the cervical cancer and non-cancerous cell lines tested. Our results also provide preliminary evidence that PAC administration may induce apoptosis in cervical and oral cancer cell lines, while acting merely to suppress proliferation of the normal cell line control.

Conclusion

These results signify that PAC may be a compelling candidate for testing in both animal and human models. Furthermore, these data provide adequate justification for elucidating the divergent mechanisms of PAC-induced proliferation, inhibition, and apoptosis among these and other cell lines.
Involving deprived communities in improving the quality of primary care services: does participatory action research work?
Authors: Cawston Peter G , Mercer Stewart W , Barbour Rosaline S
Published: June 2007

Background

Participation by communities in improving the quality of health services has become a feature of government policy in the United Kingdom. The aim of the study was to involve a deprived community in the UK in shaping quality improvements of local primary care services. The specific objectives were firstly to create participation by local people in evaluating the primary care services available in the area and secondly to bring about change as a result of this process.

Methods

The methods of participatory action research was used. The study was set in an area of high socio-economic deprivation served by a 'Local Health Care Co-operative' in a peripheral housing estate in Glasgow, Scotland. 72 local residents took part in 11 focus groups: eight of these were with community groups and three with other residents. 372 local residents completed questionnaires either by brief face-to-face interviews (114) or by self or carer completion (258).

Results

The study group produced recommendations on physical access to the health centre, time constraints in accessing services and problems encountered in individual relationships with health staff. They also highlighted the social gap between health service providers and the daily life of community residents. Action was taken to bring these recommendations to the attention of the Primary Care Organisation.

Conclusion

Participatory action research was used to involve a deprived community in the UK in a 'bottom-up' approach aimed at improving quality of local primary care services. Although successful in creating a partnership between academic researchers and lay researchers and participation by local people in evaluating the primary care services available in the area, the impact of the study in terms of immediate action taken over specific issues has been modest. The possible reasons for this are discussed.