bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensitivity of motor unit potential analysis in facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy
Authors: Podnar Simon , Zidar Janez
Published: July 2006

Template‐operated motor unit potential (MUP) analysis has made quantitative electromyography (EMG) feasible, even in busy laboratories, but validation of this approach is still necessary. In the present study, the utility of multi‐MUP analysis was assessed in patients with a molecular genetic diagnosis of facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD). Manual assessment of muscle strength and concentric‐needle EMG of the biceps brachii and vastus lateralis muscles were performed. The sensitivity for diagnosing myopathy (mean values and outliers) was tested for eight MUP parameters and four of their combinations. The group comprised 31 patients. Elbow flexion and knee extension strength was normal in 45% and 52% of patients, respectively. The most sensitive MUP parameter was thickness, followed by duration. A combination of three MUP parameters (thickness, amplitude, and duration/area) was needed for maximal sensitivity. The study demonstrated a high sensitivity of multi‐MUP analysis in FSHD. Myopathic abnormalities were demonstrated in all weak biceps brachii muscles, and in 77% of biceps brachii muscles with normal strength. Muscle Nerve, 2006
Vulnerability assessment of ad hoc networks to MAC layer misbehavior
Authors: Guang Lei , Assi Chadi
Published: July 2006

This paper describes a new vulnerability for the IEEE 802.11 protocol and studies its impact on degrading the performance of ad hoc networks. A host that exploits this new simple, but practical, vulnerability could cause devastating effects on the proper operation of the network protocols and hence severely degrade the performance. In this work, a misbehaving node fully cooperates by forwarding packets for other nodes and completely adheres to the proper selection of backoff intervals; however, it maliciously forces the forwarding operation to fail in order to either disrupt the route discovery process or to cause damage to existing flows routed though that node. As a result, the medium around the misbehaving node will be less congested and hence the node will obtain an increased unfair access to the channel. We use network simulations to show that such malicious misbehaviors have devastating effect on demoting the network performance and disrupting the protocol functioning. Hence, necessary extensions for existing detection systems are required to mitigate the effects of these new vulnerabilities. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Abl kinase interacts with and phosphorylates vinexin
Authors: Mitsushima Masaru , Takahashi Honami , Shishido Tomoyuki , Ueda Kazumitsu , Kioka Noriyuki
Published: July 2006

Non‐receptor tyrosine kinase Abl is a well known regulator of the actin‐cytoskeleton, including the formation of stress fibers and membrane ruffles. Vinexin is an adapter protein consisting of three SH3 domains, and involved in signal transduction and the reorganization of actin cytoskeleton. In this study, we found that vinexin α as well as β interacts with c‐Abl mainly through the third SH3 domain, and that vinexin and c‐Abl were colocalized at membrane ruffles in rat astrocytes. This interaction was reduced by latrunculin B, suggesting an F‐actin‐mediated regulatory mechanism. We also found that vinexin α but not β was phosphorylated at tyrosine residue when c‐Abl or v‐Abl was co‐expressed. A mutational analysis identified tyrosine 127 on vinexin α as a major site of phosphorylation by c‐ or v‐Abl. These results suggest that vinexin α is a novel substrate for Abl.
CITRX thioredoxin is a putative adaptor protein connecting Cf‐9 and the ACIK1 protein kinase during the Cf‐9/Avr9‐ induced defence response
Authors: Nekrasov Vladimir , Ludwig Andrea A. , Jones Jonathan D.G.
Published: July 2006

Tomato Cf‐9, a receptor‐like protein (RLP), confers resistance to races of the fungal pathogen Cladosporium fulvum that express the Avr9 avirulence gene. CITRX (Cf‐9‐interacting thioredoxin) was previously identified in a yeast two‐hybrid screen as a protein interacting with the cytoplasmic domain of Cf‐9 and shown to be a negative regulator of the cell death induced after Cf‐9/Avr9 interaction. ACIK1 is a Ser/Thr protein kinase that is specifically required for the Cf‐9 and Cf‐4 dependent defence response in tomato. In this paper we present data suggesting that CITRX may act as an adaptor recruiting the ACIK1 kinase to the cytoplasmic domain of Cf‐9 upon elicitation with the Avr9 peptide. Interestingly, the catalytic activities of both CITRX and ACIK1 are not required for their interaction.
Characterization of AtNST‐KT1, a novel UDP‐galactose transporter from Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Rollwitz Inga , Santaella Marcella , Hille Diana , Flügge Ulf-Ingo , Fischer Karsten
Published: July 2006

Nucleotide sugar transporters (NST) mediate the transfer of nucleotide sugars from the cytosol into the lumen of the endoplasmatic reticulum and the Golgi apparatus. Because the NSTs show similarities with the plastidic phosphate translocators (pPTs), these proteins were grouped into the TPT/NST superfamily. In this study, a member of the NST‐KT family, AtNST‐KT1, was functionally characterized by expression of the corresponding cDNA in yeast cells and subsequent transport experiments. The histidine‐tagged protein was purified by affinity chromatography and reconstituted into proteoliposomes. The substrate specificity of AtNST‐KT1 was determined by measuring the import of radiolabelled nucleotide mono phosphates into liposomes preloaded with various unlabelled nucleotide sugars. This approach has the advantage that only one substrate has to be used in a radioactively labelled form while all the nucleotide sugars can be provided unlabelled. It turned out that AtNST‐KT1 represents a monospecific NST transporting UMP in counterexchange with UDP‐Gal but did not transport other nucleotide sugars. The AtNST‐KT1 gene is ubiquitously expressed in all tissues. AtNST‐KT1 is localized to Golgi membranes. Thus, AtNST‐KT1 is most probably involved in the synthesis of galactose‐containing glyco‐conjugates in plants.
Pain Phenomena and Sensory Recovery following Brachial Plexus Avulsion Injury and Surgical Repairs
Authors: HTUT M. , MISRA P. , ANAND P. , BIRCH R. , CARLSTEDT T.
Published: July 2006

Seventy-six patients with severe brachial plexus avulsion injuries were studied using pain questionnaires and quantitative sensory testing. There was significant correlation between pain intensity and the number of roots avulsed prior to surgery ( P = 0.0004) and surgical repairs were associated with pain relief. Sensory recovery to thermal stimuli was observed, mainly in the C5 dermatome. Allodynia to mechanical and thermal stimuli was observed in the border zone of affected and unaffected dermatomes in 18% of patients assessed early (<6 months) and 37% patients at later stages. Pain and sensations referred to the original source of afferents occurred at a later stage (>6 months) in 12% of patients and were related to nerve regeneration. By contrast, “wrong-way” referred sensations (e.g. down the affected arm while shaving or drinking cold fluids) were reported by 44% of patients and often occurred early, suggesting CNS plasticity. Understanding sensory mechanisms will help develop new treatments for severe brachial plexus injuries.
Surgery for Cerebral Palsy: Part 1. Classification and Operative Procedures for Pronation Deformity
Authors: GSCHWIND C. , TONKIN M.
Published: July 2006

32 patients with cerebral palsy underwent operations for pronation deformity. The deformity is classified into four groups. Patients in group 1 are capable of supination beyond neutral. No surgery is necessary. Those in group 2 are able to supinate to the neutral position. A pronator quadratus release is advised and may be combined with a flexor aponeurotic release. In group 3, patients have no active supination. However a full range of passive supination is readily achieved. A pronator teres transfer is advised. Patients in group 4 have no active supination. Full passive supination may be present, but is tight. A flexor aponeurotic release and a pronator quadratus release may unmask active supinator activity. An active transfer for supination is possible as a secondary procedure.
Surgery for Cerebral Palsy: Part 2. Flexion Deformity of the Wrist and Fingers
Authors: TONKIN M. , GSCHWIND C.
Published: July 2006

34 children with cerebral palsy had operations to correct flexion deformities of the wrist and fingers. 30 out of 34 patients were improved functionally and cosmetically. Zancolli’s classification provides sound guidelines on which to base surgical decisions.
Madelung Deformity: Surgical Prophylaxis (Physiolysis) During the Late Growth Period by Resection of the Dyschondrosteosis Lesion
Authors: VICKERS D , NIELSEN G.
Published: July 2006

The majority of cases of Madelung deformity are caused by hereditary dyschondrosteosis at the wrist. The principal lesion in the ulnar zone of the distal radial physis retards growth asymmetrically, especially in late childhood. Resection of this zone and its replacement with autologous fat (Langenskiöld procedure, or physiolysis) restores growth and minimizes deformity. The resection of an abnormal ligament tethering the lunate proximally may assist carpal advancement. A series of 17 patients (24 wrists) treated over a 12-year period is presented, with sufficient follow-up for evaluation of 11 patients (15 wrists). The results of this prophylactic procedure are encouraging, and, if it is performed early, the authors believe that Madelung deformity may be preventable, or at least controllable.
A Review of Distal Ulnar Hemi-Resection Arthroplasty
Authors: FAITHFULL D. K. , KWA S.
Published: July 2006

15 patients with pain and disability on the ulnar side of the wrist were treated by distal ulnar hemiresection arthroplasty. The patients’ diagnoses fell into three groups, namely ulnocarpal impingement, primary osteoarthritis of the distal radio-ulnar joint and traumatic disruption of the distal radioulnar joint. Patients were assessed pre- and post-operatively on the basis of pain and forearm rotation. Grip strength was assessed and compared with the unaffected side. Their subjective view of the operation was also sought. The best results were seen in those patients with osteoarthritis or traumatic disruption, although all patients were improved and none made worse. No patient complained of weakness although three were assessed to have a weak grip. Subjectively, 14 of the 15 were pleased or very pleased. The procedure was well tolerated and had low morbidity.
The Herbert Bone Screw: A Ten Year Perspective
Authors: HERBERT T. J. , FISHER W. E. , LEICESTER A. W.
Published: July 2006

It is now over ten years since the Herbert bone screw was first released in Australia. In 1984, Herbert and Fisher first published their experience with the use of this new bone screw in the management of scaphoid fractures. Since that time, there has been a growing interest in the technique and over 60 articles have appeared in the English literature. The purpose of this paper is to review and comment on the relevant publications as they relate to the biomechanical properties of the screw, to its use in the management of scaphoid fractures and to other applications in surgery of the hand.
Fracture of the Proximal Phalanx
Authors: CONOLLY W. B. , LEICESTER A. W.
Published: July 2006

We report a case of a fracture occurring in the proximal phalanx of a child following pulley reconstruction. The operative technique and the difficulties of pulley reconstruction in the immature skeleton are discussed.
Volar Plate Arthroplasty for Closed Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Injuries
Authors: DURHAM-SMITH G. , MCCARTEN G. M.
Published: July 2006

The anatomy and histology of the volar plate at the proximal interphalangeal joint and the mechanism of fracture/subluxation of the base of the middle phalanx in closed proximal interphalangeal joint injuries is reviewed. Our current technique of repair for these injuries and its evolution from Eaton’s original procedure is described. The results of 71 cases of volar plate arthroplasty performed over a five-year period for fracture/subluxations of the proximal interphalangeal joints are presented with follow-up ranging from six months to four years. 62 (87%) patients achieved a stable pain-free joint with a range of motion from 5° to 95° within two months. Complications were uncommon and correctable with an overall eventual patient satisfaction rate of 94%.
Intraosseous Ganglion Cyst of the Lunate: Diagnosis and Management
Authors: THAM S. , IRELAND D. C. R.
Published: July 2006

Intraosseous ganglion cyst of the lunate is an uncommon lesion and cause of wrist pain. Histopathologically it is identical to the common dorsal wrist ganglion and treatment by arthrotomy, curettage of the ganglion and bone graft resulted in clinical improvement in nine patients, six of whom became symptom-free.
Complex Physical Therapy for the Lymphoedematous Arm
Authors: MORGAN R. G. , CASLEY-SMITH Judith R. , MASON M. R. , CASLEY-SMITH J. R.
Published: July 2006

Complex physical therapy was used in 78 patients with post-mastectomy lympboedema (17 with grade 1 and 61 with grade 2). This involves: skin hygiene, a special lymphatic massage, compression bandaging and garments, and special exercises which supplement the massage. Two courses of treatment were given, lasting four weeks each, with a year between them. There was a highly significant decrease in the oedema in both grades, with more than 50% removed in the first course of treatment and 50% of the remainder in the second. There was even a small, but very significant decrease during the interval between the two courses.
Iatrogenic Injection Injuries of the Hand and Upper Limb
Authors: STANLEY D. , CONOLLY W. B.
Published: July 2006

30 cases of iatrogenic injection injuries to the hand and upper limb are reported. 16 followed therapeutic injections (steroids—11 cases, infusions—five cases) and 14 occurred during anaesthetics procedures (local blocks—ten cases, general anaesthetics—four cases).

Guidelines for minimizing the risk of injection injury are outlined.
Regression of Dupuytren’s Contracture
Authors: HUESTON J. T.
Published: July 2006

The phenomenon of clinical regression of Dupuytren’s contracture is described and discussed. It is already recognized and used in fasciotomy where it follows the release of longitudinal tension. The quite extraordinary resolution produced by continuous passive skeletal traction in extension is presented. Regression beneath grafted skin is described and discussed with its clinical implications.

The generally accepted view of Dupuytren’s contracture being “irreversible” now presents a challenge for further clinical and pharmacological studies.

The possibility of non-surgical control does exist.
Intercarpal Arthrodesis by Dowel Bone Grafting
Authors: SANDOW M. J. , WAI Y.-L. , HAYES M. G.
Published: July 2006

Successful intercarpal arthrodesis requires a stable fusion with maintenance of correct alignment and spatial relationship of the carpus. The technique described utilizes a series of tube saws to fashion the arthrodesis bed and then insert a sized iliac crest dowel bone graft with a tight interference fit. This technique has been used in 24 patients over a two-year period in both medial and lateral column intercarpal fusions. All wrists had fused by the tenth post-operative month. The technique is precise, reproducible and technically simple with a high fusion rate and minimal donor site morbidity.
The Plantaris Tendon as a Tendo-Osseous Graft
Authors: MORRISON W. A. , SCHLICHT S. M.
Published: July 2006

To minimize adhesions following tendon repair, early post-operative movement is recommended. This has proved difficult with tendon grafting because of weakness of the repair sites, particularly distally, and because of slow revascularization.

A potential solution is the use of a composite tendon-bone graft in which a bone block is attached to the end of the tendon. The tendon is threaded through a hole in the distal phalanx from the dorsal to the palmar side and impacted like a cork to create an immediate strong fixation. The tendon itself is then tunnelled through the pulley system and the proximal repair is carried out with a multiple weave technique which can withstand immediate active movement.

The ideal tendon-bone complex is the plantaris attached to a segment of calcaneus.

A preliminary report with two case studies is presented.
Abductor Pollicis Longus: A Case of Mistaken Identity
Authors: ELLIOTT B. G.
Published: July 2006

Abductor pollicis longus, long regarded as a motor for the thumb, is anatomically and functionally a radial deviator of the wrist and should be so named. The abductor carpi is proposed. If the other radial deviators of the wrist are acting this tendon can be selectively utilized as a transfer without loss of function. Reflex spasm of this muscle probably plays an important role in the radial deviation deformity seen in the rheumatoid hand.
Finkelstein’s Test: A Descriptive Error that Can Produce a False Positive
Authors: ELLIOTT B. G.
Published: July 2006

Over the last three decades an error in performing Finkelstein’s test has crept into the English literature in both text books and journals. This error can produce a false-positive, and if relied upon, a wrong diagnosis can be made, leading to inappropriate surgery.
Ammonoid stratigraphy and sedimentary evolution across the Permian–Triassic boundary in East Greenland
Authors: BJERAGER MORTEN , SEIDLER LARS , STEMMERIK LARS , SURLYK FINN
Published: July 2006

East Greenland is a classical area for the study of the Permian–Triassic transition and the succession is one of the most expanded in the world. New ammonoid data from the Wordie Creek Formation have allowed us to better reconstruct the history of the East Greenland basin from semi-isolated basins with an endemic fauna during latest Permian–earliest Triassic H. triviale–H. martini zones time to well-connected open marine shelf basins during the Early Triassic M. subdemissum, O. commune, W. decipiens and B. rosenkrantzi Zone times. The East Greenland zonation can be correlated with Boreal zonations in Arctic Canada, Svalbard and northeastern Asia. It allows precise relative dating and correlation of important events across the Permian–Triassic boundary. The new ammonoid data indicate that deposition was continuous across the Permian–Triassic boundary and developed as a marine mudstone–mudstone contact in basinal areas of Hold With Hope, northern and southern Jameson Land. Correlation of the ammonoid stratigraphy with the FAD of Hindeodus parvus, which defines the base of the Triassic in Global Stratotype Section and Point (GSSP) in Meishan, China, suggests that the Hypophiceras triviale Zone is to be referred to the uppermost Permian, whereas the H. martini Zone is lowermost Triassic. Accordingly, the end-Permian marine and terrestrial extinctions and associated isotope changes as well as the subsequent adaptive radiations in East Greenland took place in latest Permian time. New Boreal faunas and floras were well established and diversified in the Hypophiceras triviale Zone prior to the beginning of the Triassic, and the Permian–Triassic boundary, in its present definition, is no longer reflecting major changes in the Earth system. It would have been fortunate if a GSSP were defined in a protracted section at a point of major environmental perturbations, marked by isotope excursions, chemical anomalies and mass extinction, rather than in the strongly condensed section like Meishan at a point which post-dates all significant events.
Detection and quantification of the soil microbial biomass – impacts on the management of agricultural soils
Authors: STOCKDALE E. A. , BROOKES P. C.
Published: July 2006

Studies of single soil organisms, while useful in specialized cases, e.g. Rhizobia and mycohrrizae, do not yield information on the functioning of the soil ecosystem. This is because most important soil processes, e.g. carbon and nitrogen mineralization, depend upon interactions between entire suites of organisms, many of which still await identification and most of which remain unculturable.

For many purposes, treating the soil microbial community as a single, undifferentiated unit, the soil microbial biomass (defined as all soil organisms <5000 μm3 volume), has much to commend it. It is analogous to studying the forest rather than an individual tree and uniquely permits an understanding of the soil–plant–microbe system as a whole, rather than studying only a small part. The present paper reviews the development of methods to measure microbial dynamics over the last century, the evolution of biomass methodologies and how they have helped the study of crucial soil processes such as nutrient and carbon cycling. Possible future directions for this research are also discussed and an explanation set forth of why the manipulation of this huge population (easily comprising 10 tonnes per hectare of living microbial cells in UK arable soils) has, so far, proved elusive.
THE EFFECT OF WOMEN’S STATUS ON INFANT AND CHILD MORTALITY IN FOUR RURAL AREAS OF BANGLADESH
Authors: HOSSAIN MIAN B. , PHILLIPS JAMES F. , PENCE BRIAN
Published: July 2006

In South Asia women are often the primary decision-makers regarding child health care, family health and nutrition. This paper examines the proposition that constraints on women’s status adversely affect the survival of their children. Survey data are used to construct indices of women’s household autonomy and authority, which are then linked to longitudinal data on survival of their children. Proportional hazard models indicate that enhanced autonomy significantly decreases post-neonatal mortality. Enhanced household authority significantly decreases child mortality. A simulation based on estimated effects of eliminating gender inequality suggests that achieving complete gender equality could reduce child mortality by nearly fifty per cent and post-neonatal mortality by one-third.
Effects of hand milking on the bacterial flora of mammary gland and teat duct of ewes
Authors: Mavrogianni Vasia S , Cripps Peter J , Tzora Athina , Skoufos Ioannis , Fthenakis George C
Published: July 2006

In studies of bovine mastitis, it has been repeatedly confirmed that milking is associated with entrance of microorganisms into the mammary gland (International Dairy Federation, 1987; Bramley, 1992). As different husbandry practices apply between cattle and dairy sheep (cows are machine milked, ewes are usually hand milked), results from cows may not always apply to ewes. The objective of this investigation was to determine whether there were differences in bacterial flora populations in the teat duct and mammary secretion of ewes before and after milking.
Association between body condition score and live weight in pasture-based Holstein-Friesian dairy cows
Authors: Berry Donagh P , Macdonald Kevin A , Penno John W , Roche John R
Published: July 2006

The objective was to quantify the strength of the relationship between body condition score (BCS) and live weight (LW) in pasture-based Holstein-Friesian dairy cattle, and to determine the kg LW per unit BCS. A total of 26021 test-day records with information on both BCS (1–10 scale, where 1 is emaciated and 10 is obese) and LW across 1110 lactations from one research farm were used in the analysis. Correlation and regression analyses were used to determine the degree of association between BCS and LW in different parities, stages of the inter-calving interval and years. Correlations between BCS and LW were relatively consistent, with the mean correlation between BCS and LW across all data of 0·55 implying that differences in BCS explain approximately 30% of the variation in LW. Significantly different regressions of LW on BCS were present within stage of inter-calving interval by parity subclasses. Excluding calving, LW per unit BCS varied from 17 kg (early to mid lactation in parity 1) to 36 kg (early lactation in parity 4 and 5). However, LW per unit BCS was greatest at calving varying from 44 kg in first parity animals to 62 kg in second parity animals. On average, 1 BCS unit equated to 31 kg LW across all data.
Is unilateral tonsillar enlargement alone an indication for tonsillectomy?
Authors: Sunkaraneni V S , Jones S E M , Prasai A , Fish B M
Published: July 2006

Introduction: Unilateral tonsillar enlargement is often seen in the out-patient setting. Frequently, these patients are listed for tonsillectomy for the purpose of ruling out malignant histology. This study aims to determine the necessity for tonsillectomy.

Method: This retrospective case-note review looks at all the tonsillectomies performed for histological examination at our institution over a five year period, and analyses the histological findings in those with unilateral tonsillar enlargement (UTE) alone, and those with UTE with other clinical features (history of chronic pain, dysphagia, the presence of tonsillar or peritonsillar mucosal abnormality, those with cervical lymphadenopathy). All patients who underwent tonsillectomy for the purpose of histological examination from 1 June 1998 to 30 May 2003 were identified and their notes reviewed. Exclusion criteria included cases where there were no pre-operative out-patient notes, those patients where the specimens had been sent from other hospitals, those patients who had malignancy already diagnosed, and those cases where tonsillectomy had been performed by other surgical specialties (e.g. maxillofacial, plastics). There were 1475 tonsillectomies, of which 181 performed over this period were sent for histological analysis. After excluding those patients that did not meet our criteria, we were left with 53 patients who had UTE. The primary outcome measure was the rate of malignancy in the two groups.

Results: Of these, 33 had UTE alone, 20 had associated clinical features. In the former group, none of the patients were found to have malignancy. In the latter, nine (45 per cent) had a malignancy. Fisher's exact test was used to test for differences between the UTE alone group versus the UTE plus other features group (p<0.001).

Discussion: The prevalence of malignancy in tonsils which exhibit asymmetry with no other clinical features is very low; in our study it was zero. However, other studies have found a small percentage representing underlying malignancy. In view of this, we feel that a ‘watch and wait’ policy is initially more appropriate, and if symptoms or signs are progressive, tonsillectomy should then be advised.
Effect of laser ripple on the beat wave excitation and particle acceleration
Authors: CHAUHAN P. K. , MAHMOUD S. T. , SHARMA R. P. , PANDEY H. D.
Published: July 2006

This paper presents the effect of ripple on the plasma wave excitation process and acceleration of electrons in a laser produced plasma. The plasma wave is generated by the beating of two coaxial lasers of frequencies ω1 and ω2, such that ω1-ω2≅ωp. One of the main laser beams also has intensity spikes. The nonlinearity due to the relativistic mass variation depends not only on the intensity of one laser beam but also on the second laser beam. Therefore the behavior of the first laser beam affects the second laser beam, hence cross-focusing takes place. Owing to the interaction of ripple and the main laser beams, the ripple grows inside the plasma. The behavior of the ripple in the plasma affects the excitation of the electron plasma wave as well as the electron acceleration. The amplitude of the electron plasma wave and the electron energy are calculated, in the presence of ripple.
Operating instructions for intelligent agent coordination
Authors: VIROLI MIRKO , RICCI ALESSANDRO , OMICINI ANDREA
Published: July 2006

In contrast to standard approaches based on agent communication languages (ACLs), environment-based coordination is emerging as an interesting alternative for structuring interactions in multiagent systems (MASs). In particular, the notion of coordination artifacts has been proposed as an engineering methodology to build runtime abstractions effectively providing collaborating agents with specifically designed coordination tasks.

In this paper, we study the semantics for the interaction of agents with coordination artifacts playing the same role of ACL semantics, that is, supporting semantic interoperability between agents developed by different parties through the connection between rationality and interaction. Our approach is rooted on the notion of operating instructions of coordination artifacts, which—as with a manual for a human exploiting a device—describe the interaction protocols the agent can follow as well as the mentalistic semantics of each single interaction. By tackling some of the most relevant issues raised in the context of ACL semantics, our framework allows intelligent, BDI-like agents to carry on complex interactions through coordination artifacts in a rational way.
Containing destruction from Brazil's Amazon highways: now is the time to give weight to the environment in decision-making
Authors: FEARNSIDE PHILIP F.
Published: July 2006

The BR-163 Highway (Fig. 1) was originally built by the Brazilian Army in 1973 and 1974. It has remained passable since, although poor road conditions in the unpaved portion (the 646-km portion in the state of Pará from the border with Mato Grosso to Trairão) impede use of the road as a significant export route. Reconstructing the highway has been a (so-far unimplemented) part of an evolving series of plans for massive expansion of infrastructure: Brasil em Ação (Brazil in Action) for 1996–1999, Avança Brasil (Forward Brazil) for 2000–2003, and the Pluriannual Plan for 2004–2007 (Laurance et al. 2001; Fearnside 2002). Soybean plantations in the northern part of the state of Mato Grosso have been rapidly expanding, partly in anticipation of the BR-163 being reconstructed and paved (Fearnside 2001). The governor of Mato Grosso since 2003 is Brazil's largest soybean entrepreneur and a major force in inducing the federal government to pave the road. With the construction of the BR-163, northern Mato Grosso would be linked to the ports of Miritituba and Santarém (Fig. 1), halving the current distance for transportation, as currently soybeans from northern Mato Grosso are exported through the port of Paranaguá in the state of Paraná. A future plan would take the soybeans by rail from Cuiabá to Santos. Cost savings for soybean export of US$ 11.6 per tonne relative to the rail route through Santos (Alencar et al. 2005) provide an economic argument for the BR-163 project. Soybean production in northern Mato Grosso was 3.61 million tonnes in 2004 (Alencar et al. 2005), worth approximately US$ 813 million. Nevertheless, even with substantial monetary benefits for the BR-163, the various forms of impact from the project must be quantified and compared to the benefits before a decision is made (Fearnside 2005).
Prevalence of hepatitis C in a German prison for young men in relation to country of birth
Authors: MEYER M. F. , WEDEMEYER H. , MONAZAHIAN M. , DREESMAN J. , MANNS M. P. , LEHMANN M.
Published: July 2006

A high prevalence of hepatitis C (HCV) virus infection of up to 80% has been reported for injecting drug users (IDUs) in prison communities. However, there are only very limited data available on the prevalence and course of HCV in young offenders. We performed a study on hepatitis C markers in the largest German Young Offenders' Institution (YOI), a prison for men (aged 16–24 years). In 2002, all 1176 incoming offenders were asked to participate in the study of whom >95% agreed. Ninety-seven inmates (8·6%) tested positive for anti-HCV or HCV RNA, 79% of whom were viraemic. None of the patients had evidence of cirrhosis at presentation. Interestingly, six individuals (6%) tested positive for HCV RNA in the absence of anti-HCV antibodies, four of whom cleared HCV spontaneously during follow-up without either clinical signs of acute hepatitis or developing HCV antibodies. Hepatitis C markers were significantly more prevalent among immigrants from the former Soviet Union (NIS) than among German inmates (31% vs. 6% respectively, P<0·0001). HIV co-infection was found in five individuals, all of whom were German. In contrast, hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) was detected in five NIS immigrants, one Lebanese and one German inmate. HCV genotypes 2 and 3 were more prevalent in immigrants than in German inmates, while biochemical parameters did not differ significantly between the two groups. In conclusion, the prevalence of hepatitis C was relatively low among inmates of German YOIs although there were significant differences in relation to the country of birth. Our data highlight the need for educational programmes for young offenders in order to prevent the further spread of HCV.
Multilevel modelling of the incidence of visceral leishmaniasis in Teresina, Brazil
Authors: WERNECK G. L. , COSTA C. H. N. , WALKER A. M. , DAVID J. R. , WAND M. , MAGUIRE J. H.
Published: July 2006

Epidemics of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) in major Brazilian cities are new phenomena since 1980. As determinants of transmission in urban settings probably operate at different geographic scales, and information is not available for each scale, a multilevel approach was used to examine the effect of canine infection and environmental and socio-economic factors on the spatial variability of incidence rates of VL in the city of Teresina. Details on an outbreak of greater than 1200 cases of VL in Teresina during 1993–1996 were available at two hierarchical levels: census tracts (socio-economic characteristics, incidence rates of human VL) and districts, which encompass census tracts (prevalence of canine infection). Remotely sensed data obtained by satellite generated environmental information at both levels. Data from census tracts and districts were analysed simultaneously by multilevel modelling. Poor socio-economic conditions and increased vegetation were associated with a high incidence of human VL. Increasing prevalence of canine infection also predicted a high incidence of human VL, as did high prevalence of canine infection before and during the epidemic. Poor socio-economic conditions had an amplifying effect on the association between canine infection and the incidence of human VL. Focusing interventions on areas with characteristics identified by multilevel analysis could be a cost-effective strategy for controlling VL. Because risk factors for infectious diseases operate simultaneously at several levels and ecological data usually are available at different geographical scales, multilevel modelling is a valuable tool for epidemiological investigation of disease transmission.
An exploratory spatial analysis of pneumonia and influenza hospitalizations in Ontario by age and gender
Authors: CRIGHTON E. J. , ELLIOTT S. J. , MOINEDDIN R. , KANAROGLOU P. , UPSHUR R. E. G.
Published: July 2006

Pneumonia and influenza represent a significant public health burden in Canada and abroad. Knowledge of how this burden varies geographically provides clues to understanding the determinants of these illnesses, and insight into the effective management of health-care resources. We conducted a retrospective, population-based, ecological-level study to assess age- and gender-specific spatial patterns of pneumonia and influenza hospitalizations in the province of Ontario, Canada from 1992 to 2001. Results revealed marked variability in hospitalization rates by age, as well as clear and statistically significant patterns of high rates in northern rural counties and low rates in southern urban counties. A moderate yet significant level of positive spatial autocorrelation (Moran's I=0·21, P<0·05) was found in the global data, with significant, age-specific clusters of high values or ‘hot spots’ identified in several northern counties. Findings illustrate the need for geographically focused prevention strategies, and resource and service allocation policies informed by regional and population-specific demands.
Thermal and compositional structure of the subcontinental lithospheric mantle: Derivation from shear wave seismic tomography
Authors: Deen Tara J. , Griffin W. L. , Begg G. , O'Reilly Suzanne Y. , Natapov L. M. , Hronsky J.
Published: July 2006

Seismic tomography can provide unique information on the structure of the subcontinental lithospheric mantle (SCLM), but seismic velocity reflects both temperature and composition. We present a methodology for evaluating and isolating the relative contributions of these effects, which produces maps of regional geotherm and broad compositional constraints on the SCLM from the inversion of shear wave (Vs) seismic tomography. This approach uses model geotherms quantized in steps of 2.5 mW/m2 and three mantle compositions corresponding to typical Archean, Proterozoic, and Phanerozoic SCLM. Starting from an assumed composition for a volume of SCLM, lithospheric density at surface pressure and temperature is calculated for each geotherm at each point; the optimum geotherm is taken as the one yielding a density closest to the mean value derived from mantle xenoliths (3.31 g/cm3), since density varies with composition. Results requiring densities or geotherms outside the known natural range of these parameters worldwide require the choice of a different mantle composition. This technique, applied iteratively to a 275 km × 275 km Vs model developed by S. Grand (University of Texas, Austin), results in maps of the geotherm and regional density, which allow interpretation of SCLM composition within broad limits. These results can then be compared with local (paleo)geotherms and data for mantle composition, derived from xenolith suites. Application of this technique to the SCLM beneath Africa, Siberia, and North America shows good correlation with regional geological features, xenolith data, and other geophysical data.
Identification of configuration and boundaries of interplanetary magnetic clouds
Authors: Feng H. Q. , Wu D. J. , Chao J. K.
Published: July 2006

To study interplanetary magnetic clouds (IMCs), it is important to find their configurations and boundaries from the observed magnetic field data. This paper presents a novel method of identifying the configuration and boundaries of IMCs, wherein the interplanetary magnetic field data, which are measured in the Geocentric Solar Ecliptic (GSE) coordinate system, are converted into an IMC natural coordinate system that can more clearly display the configuration and boundaries of the IMC as a flux tube. The establishment of the natural coordinate system is based on the idea that the IMC is a flux rope with approximately constant α force‐free field configuration. We also apply this method to analyze four IMCs observed by the Wind spacecraft. Two of them are identified as having the flux rope configuration lying in the ecliptic plane, and the other two are flux ropes vertical to the ecliptic plane. The results demonstrate that our method can work well for real IMCs.
Reproducing the bipolar magnetic signature at the jet leading edge by three‐dimensional reconnection with nonzero guide field
Authors: Shirataka N. , Fujimoto M. , Hasegawa H. , TanDokoro R.
Published: July 2006

A bipolar (southward‐then‐northward) signature of the Bz component at the leading edge of earthward jets in the magnetotail has often been reported. Here we try to reproduce this magnetic field feature by a three‐dimensional reconnection (finite extent in the dawn‐dusk direction) in the presence of a nonzero guide field (dawn‐dusk magnetic component). Setting the guide field intensity by referring to earlier reports (Slavin et al., 2003) and setting the dawn‐dusk extent of the reconnection region to an often quoted value (Angelopoulos et al., 1997), we managed to reproduce the bipolar signatures in three‐dimensional (Hall) MHD simulation runs. Redirecting the argument, with the typical guide field intensity of By = 4 nT in the magnetotail, the southward peak value of Bz = −3 nT in the bipolar signature may be taken as the evidence that the dawn‐dusk width of the reconnection region is ∼4 RE (RE: Earth radii).
Seasonal circulation and Mauna Loa CO2 variability
Authors: Lintner Benjamin R. , Buermann Wolfgang , Koven Charles D. , Fung Inez Y.
Published: July 2006

The multidecadal observational CO2 record from the Mauna Loa Observatory (MLO) in Hawaii exhibits variations at subannual frequencies associated with variations in both carbon sources and sinks and atmospheric transport. However, the atmospheric transport influence on MLO's CO2 variability in general and its seasonal characteristics in particular have received relatively little attention. In this study, we explore the impact of seasonal atmospheric circulation on MLO CO2 variability. Because of MLO's central tropical North Pacific location between zones of intense midlatitude westerly flow to the north and tropical easterly flow to the south, the air mass transport to the site broadly consists of either long‐range transport, typically originating from the west over or near the Eurasian continent, and short‐range transport, typically originating from the east over the Pacific Ocean. Climatologically, the source regions of air masses arriving at MLO reflect seasonal modulation; most notably, while the period October‐June is characterized by both the short‐ and long‐range transport pathways, with the latter more prominent, especially during Northern Hemisphere (NH) spring, the period July‐September is dominated by the short‐range pathway with little long‐range transport. At interannual timescales, the relationship between atmospheric transport and MLO CO2 also displays distinct seasonality: The correlation of observed MLO CO2 variability with simulated variability associated with cyclostationary sources interacting with an interannually varying reanalysis circulation field, i.e., an “atmospheric circulation only” estimate of MLO CO2 variability, is relatively strong during the NH cold season (November‐May) but is weak during the warm season (June‐October). Use of both Eulerian‐ and Lagrangian‐based techniques, including composite analysis and clustering of Lagrangian back trajectories, highlights distinct atmospheric circulation flow patterns associated with anomalous positive and negative excursions of MLO CO2 concentrations, with the El Niño/Southern Oscillation (ENSO) playing a significant, though seasonally variable, role. Consistent with simple correlation analysis, the strongest concurrence between circulation fields composited with respect to observed and simulated MLO CO2 is evident during the NH autumn, winter, and spring seasons. Back trajectory cluster analysis supports the physicality of the composite analysis in terms of the origins of air masses arriving at MLO. The seasonal role of atmospheric transport variability may have important implications for the interpretation of the recent downward trends in the observed CO2 seasonal cycle amplitude and maxima, features that also appear in the simulated CO2 record. Indeed, both the circulation analyses as well as available radon‐222 data for MLO point toward a decadal shift in the origin of air masses arriving at MLO during the April‐June period that favors lower CO2 concentrations.
Limits to the abundance of surface CO2 ice on Titan
Authors: Hartung M. , Herbst T. M. , Dumas C. , Coustenis A.
Published: July 2006

In the context of the Cassini/Huygens mission, we performed supporting ground‐based observations to complement the results from the NASA/ESA/ASI space mission to the Saturnian system with particular focus on Titan. On the nights of 18 and 19 December 2004, we conducted adaptive optics observations with VLT/NACO to search for and map the distribution of CO2 ice deposits on the spatially resolved surface of Titan (65 mas resolution). This experiment became possible because (1) solid CO2 possesses two narrow and strong absorption lines at 2012 nm and 2070 nm that fall into the 2.05 μm window of Titan's atmosphere and (2) the width of these bands matches the band pass of the Fabry‐Perot instrument installed in NACO. We do not detect this chemical compound, but we can derive firm limits on the abundance of CO2 ice on the surface of Titan at sub‐Earth longitudes 284°W and 307°W. With a spatial sampling of 65 mas, we conclude that a partial surface coverage of segregated CO2 ice does not exceed 7% or 14% for bright or dark surface regions, respectively.
A first‐order correction to minimize environmental influence in sedimentary records of relative paleointensity of the geomagnetic field
Authors: Mazaud Alain
Published: July 2006

We propose a simple method to minimize the residual environmental influence which may exist in paleointensity records obtained from sediments. It consists of adding, or subtracting, a fraction of the normalizer (κ, ARM, or IRM) to the normalized intensity record, so that the corrected record exhibits fluctuations uncorrelated with those of the normalizer. This method was tested with paleointensity records obtained from two cores taken at midlatitude in the South Indian Ocean cores, eastward of the Kerguelen plateau. For each core, correction increases the correlation between the three normalized intensity records, NRM/κ, NRM/ARM, and NRM/IRM. It also reduces the coherence between paleointensity records and bulk magnetic parameters used as normalizers. Although it has to be used with caution, this correction may improve paleointensity records by reducing nongeomagnetic influence. It can also be used to detect intervals where paleointensity may be unreliable, i.e., intervals where large differences between uncorrected and corrected records are observed, before and after correction.
Are stress distributions along faults the signature of asperity squeeze?
Authors: Schmittbuhl J. , Chambon G. , Hansen A. , Bouchon M.
Published: July 2006

We propose a possible model for the origin of the spatial fluctuations of the stress field along faults and test our model in the case of the Nojima fault, Japan where unique estimates of the absolute stress field have been obtained. The model consists of two parts: an up‐scaling of the fault morphology measured at laboratory scales and a numerical computation using a boundary element approach of the influence on the stress field along the fault of an elastic squeeze of the fault asperities. Accordingly, fluctuations of the stress field along the fault would be dominated by quenched fault properties rather than dynamical stress fluctuations produced during earthquakes.
Poleward propagation of spiciness anomalies in the North Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Laurian Audine , Lazar Alban , Reverdin Gilles , Rodgers Keith , Terray Pascal
Published: July 2006

Recent modelling results suggest that subsurface salinity anomalies propagating from the tropics can reach and precondition the deep‐water formation regions, thus modulating the THC variability. The forcing and propagative aspects of this mechanism are presented in the North Atlantic Ocean over 1948–2002 using an OGCM. Density compensated salinity anomalies of 0.1 up to 0.35 psu along σ = 26 kg.m−3 are generated in the salinity maximum region at interannual to decadal frequency. The relation between subsurface conditions and late winter sea surface salinity variability supports the subduction mechanism. They circulate over isopycnals ranging from 25.6σ to 26.2σ at current speed between 150 m and 250 m depth toward Cape Hatteras via the Gulf of Mexico on a typical 6‐year transit. Although mixing along the pathway reduces the amplitude of salinity anomalies by about 66%, they largely determine the subsurface spiciness of the Gulf Stream up to 30°N, upstream of the outcrop region.