bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Living free‐radical polymerization of sterically hindered monomers: Improving the understanding of 1,1‐disubstituted monomer systems
Authors: Szablan Zachary , Toy Andrew Ah , Terrenoire Alexandre , Davis Thomas P. , Stenzel Martina H. , Müller Axel H. E. , Barner‐Kowollik Christopher
Published: April 2006

The sterically hindered, 1,1‐disubstituted monomers di‐n‐butyl itaconate (DBI), dicyclohexyl itaconate (DCHI), and dimethyl itaconate (DMI) were polymerized with reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) free‐radical polymerization and atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP). Cumyl dithiobenzoate, cumyl phenyl dithioacetate, 2‐cyanoprop‐2‐yl dithiobenzoate, 4‐cyanopentanoic acid dithiobenzoate, and S‐methoxycarbonylphenylmethyl dithiobenzoate were employed as RAFT agents to mediate a series of polymerizations at 60 °C yielding polymers ranging in their number‐average molecular weight from 4500 to 60,000 g mol−1. The RAFT polymerizations of these hindered monomers displayed hybrid living behavior (between conventional and living free‐radical polymerization) of various degrees depending on the molecular structure of the initial RAFT agent. In addition, DCHI was polymerized via ATRP with a CuCl/methyl benzoate/N,N,N′,N″,N″‐pentamethyldiethylenetriamine/cyclohexanone system at 60 °C. Both the ATRP and RAFT polymerization of the hindered monomers displayed living characteristics; however, broader than expected molecular weight distributions were observed for the RAFT systems (polydispersity index = 1.15–3.35). To assess the cause of this broadness, chain‐transfer‐to‐monomer constants for DMI, DBI, and DCHI were determined (1.4 × 10−3, 1.3 × 10−3, and 1.0 × 10−3, respectively) at 60 °C. Simulations carried out with the PREDICI program package suggested that chain transfer to monomer contributed to the broadening process. In addition, the experimental results indicated that viscosity had a pronounced effect on the broadness of the molecular weight distributions. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 3692–3710, 2006
Deconvolution filters to enhance resolution of dense time‐of‐flight survey spectra in the time‐lag optimization range
Authors: Malyarenko Dariya I. , Cooke William E. , Tracy Eugene R. , Trosset Michael W. , Semmes O. John , Sasinowski Maciek , Manos Dennis M.
Published: April 2006

By applying time‐domain filters to time‐of‐flight (TOF) mass spectrometry signals, we have simultaneously smoothed and narrowed spectra resulting in improved resolution and increased signal‐to‐noise ratios. This filtering procedure has an advantage over detailed curve fitting of spectra in the case of large dense spectra, when neither the location nor the number of mass peaks is known a priori. This time series method is directly applicable in the time lag optimization range, where point density per peak is constant. We present a systematic methodology to optimize the filters according to any desired figure of merit, illustrating the procedure by optimizing the signal‐to‐noise per unit bandwidth of matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) data. We also introduce a nonlinear filter that reduces the spurious structure that often accompanies deconvolution filters. The net result of the application of these filters is that we can identify new structures in dense MALDI‐TOF data, clearly showing small adducts to heavy biomolecules. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Measuring the dispersal of saproxylic insects: a key characteristic for their conservation
Authors: Ranius Thomas
Published: April 2006

In the discipline of nature conservation it is important to understand under which circumstances populations can survive by compensating local extinctions with colonizations. Many saproxylic (= wood‐dwelling) insect species have declining populations and are regarded as threatened due to low habitat availability in managed forests. Several methods have been used to better understand the dispersal biology and colonization ability of saproxylic insects with declining populations. The present article summarizes and compares the results of such studies. When the same species have been studied using several methods, the results are consistent, but different aspects of dispersal biology are revealed with different methods. Capture‐recapture and telemetry are direct methods that can be used to quantify dispersal rate and range in the field. Studies of genetic structure and occupancy patterns are complementary, as they reveal the consequences of dispersals that have taken place over a larger spatial and temporal scale than is possible to study with direct methods. Because colonization, rather than dispersal, is important for population persistence, colonization experiments provide useful information. To obtain information relevant for conservation work, dispersal studies should be conducted on model species that are representative of threatened species. Colonization ability probability differs between common and rare species, and therefore it is important to also study the dispersal of rare species, even if it is more difficult.
Care revolutions in the making? A comparison of cash-for-care programmes in four European countries
Authors: TIMONEN VIRPI , CONVERY JANET , CAHILL SUZANNE
Published: April 2006

This article describes and evaluates cash-for-care programmes for older people in four European countries, namely Home-Care Grants in Ireland, Direct Payments in the United Kingdom (England), Service Vouchers in Finland and Personal Budgets in The Netherlands. The purpose is to raise understanding of the background and reasons for the introduction of cash-for-care programmes and their impact on the countries' care regimes. It is argued that while the motives for introducing cash-for-care programmes in the four countries are similar, namely to promote choice and autonomy, to plug gaps in existing provision, to create jobs, and to promote efficiency, cost savings and domiciliary care, the relative importance of these goals varies. Current cash-for-care programmes have comparatively modest coverage as compared with direct service provision and provide no more than an optional, supplementary source of care in three of the studied countries. Cash-for-care schemes have not radically transformed the care regimes in Finland, The Netherlands or the United Kingdom. In Ireland, however, the restricted availability of alternative forms of formal service provision means that the expansion of cash-for-care might shift care provision significantly towards private provision and financing.
Use of the life story in the institutional care of people with dementia: a review of intervention studies
Authors: MOOS INGER , BJÖRN AGNES
Published: April 2006

This paper reports a systematic review of 28 evaluations of interventions that aimed to describe the benefits of the use of the life story for nursing-home residents with dementia, particularly with reference to their sense of identity. The 28 studies were published during 1990–2003. The review focuses on the methodology of the evaluations, and on how the studies contributed to our understanding of the value of using a resident's life story in care interactions. The studies were divided into three groups by the purpose of the intervention: to raise self-esteem and self-integration; to improve life quality; and to change behaviour. The features of the interventions that were associated with enhanced sense of identity were a thorough and encompassing treatment of the individual's life story, the translation of the life story into care interactions, and active encouragement of the residents' initiatives. Only one intervention had all of these features. The diverse aims and forms of the interventions were mirrored by the diverse methodologies of the evaluation studies. Recently the trend has been towards more rigorous designs that measure a few precisely-defined quantitative outcomes but at the cost of a narrower appreciation of the impacts. Given that there is still a great deal to learn about how best to deliver sensitive, individualised and effective support and care to people with dementia, it is argued that qualitative assessments have been too hastily discontinued.
Effect of Boswellia serrata on intestinal motility in rodents: inhibition of diarrhoea without constipation
Authors: Borrelli Francesca , Capasso Francesco , Capasso Raffaele , Ascione Valeria , Aviello Gabriella , Longo Rocco , Izzo Angelo A
Published: April 2006

Clinical studies suggest that the Ayurvedic plant Boswellia serrata may be effective in reducing diarrhoea in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. In the present study, we evaluated the effect of a Boswellia serrata gum resin extract (BSE) on intestinal motility and diarrhoea in rodents.

BSE depressed electrically‐, acetylcholine‐, and barium chloride‐induced contractions in the isolated guinea‐pig ileum, being more potent in inhibiting the contractions induced by acetylcholine and barium chloride.

The inhibitory effect of BSE on acetylcholine‐induced contractions was reduced by the L‐type Ca2+ channel blockers verapamil and nifedipine, but not by the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+‐ATPase inhibitor cyclopiazonic acid, by the phosphodiesterase type IV inhibitor rolipram or by the lipoxygenase inhibitor zileuton.

3‐acetyl‐11‐keto‐β‐boswellic acid, one of the main active ingredients of B. serrata, inhibited acetylcholine‐induced contractions.

BSE inhibited upper gastrointestinal transit in croton oil‐treated mice as well as castor oil‐induced diarrhoea. However, BSE did not affect intestinal motility in control mice, both in the small and in the large intestine.

It is concluded that BSE directly inhibits intestinal motility with a mechanism involving L‐type Ca2+ channels. BSE prevents diarrhoea and normalizes intestinal motility in pathophysiological states without slowing the rate of transit in control animals. These results could explain, at least in part, the clinical efficacy of this Ayurvedic remedy in reducing diarrhoea in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.

British Journal of Pharmacology (2006) 148, 553–560. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0706740
Inhibition of stimulated meningeal blood flow by a calcitonin gene‐related peptide binding mirror‐image RNA oligonucleotide
Authors: Denekas Thomas , Tröltzsch Markus , Vater Axel , Klussmann Sven , Messlinger Karl
Published: April 2006

Calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) released from trigeminal afferents is known to play an important role in the control of intracranial blood flow. In a rat preparation with exposed cranial dura mater, periods of electrical stimulation induce increases in meningeal blood flow. These responses are due to arterial vasodilatation mediated in part by the release of CGRP. In this preparation, the effect of a CGRP‐binding mirror‐image oligonucleotide (Spiegelmer NOX‐C89) was examined.

Spiegelmer NOX‐C89 applied topically at concentrations between 10−7and 10−5 M to the exposed dura mater led to a dose‐dependent inhibition of the electrically evoked blood flow increases. The highest dose reduced the mean increases in flow to 56% of the respective control levels. A nonfunctional control Spiegelmer (not binding to CGRP) was ineffective in changing blood flow increases. Intravenous injection of NOX‐C89 (5 mg kg−1) reduced the evoked blood flow increases to an average of 65.5% of the control. The basal blood flow was not changed by any of the applied substances.

In addition, an ex vivo preparation of the hemisected rat skull was used to determine CGRP release from the cranial dura mater caused by antidromic activation of meningeal afferents. In this model, 10−6 M of NOX‐C89 reduced the evoked CGRP release by about 50%.

We conclude that increases in meningeal blood flow due to afferent activation can be reduced by sequestering the released CGRP and thus preventing it from activating vascular CGRP receptors. Moreover, the Spiegelmer NOX‐C89 may inhibit CGRP release from meningeal afferents. Therefore, the approach to interfere with the CGRP/CGRP receptor system by binding the CGRP may open a new opportunity for the therapy of diseases that are linked to excessive CGRP release such as some forms of primary headaches.

British Journal of Pharmacology (2006) 148, 536–543. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0706742
Phonon-assisted stimulated emission from single CdS nanoribbons at room temperature
Authors: Pan A. L. , Liu R. B. , Zou B. S.
Published: April 2006

We report room-temperature stimulated emission in single CdS nanoribbons obtained through Au-catalyzed physical evaporation route. These ribbons have single-crystal structures and uniform rectangular cross sections and grow along the [100] direction. The ribbons show good waveguide/cavity properties under local optical excitation. The stimulated emissions from the single ribbons were observed with both nanosecond and femtosecond laser pumpings. The results show that the CdS nanoribbons produce stimulated emission by bipolaronic excitons (two-longitudinal-optical phonon coupled free excitons) at room temperature.
Negative permeability spectra in Permalloy granular composite materials
Authors: Kasagi Teruhiro , Tsutaoka Takanori , Hatakeyama Kenichi
Published: April 2006

Complex permeability spectra of Permalloy granular composite materials have been studied in the microwave frequency range. The heat-treated Permalloy particles in the air at several hundreds of °C have a high surface electrical resistance; the eddy current effect in the high frequency permeability spectra can be suppressed in the composite structure containing the percolated particles. A negative permeability has been obtained above 5GHz due to the natural magnetic resonance in the 70vol% particle content composite material. In this content, electrical permittivity spectra show a nonmetallic characteristic. This permeability dispersion can be applied for the left-handed media.
Crystalline ternary rare earth oxide with capacitance equivalent thickness below 1nm for high-K application
Authors: Laha Apurba , Bugiel E. , Osten H. J. , Fissel A.
Published: April 2006

Ternary neodymium-gadolinium oxide (NGO) thin films were grown epitaxially on Si(001) substrates using modified molecular beam epitaxy. The electrical properties of NGO thin films demonstrate that this ternary oxide could be one of the most promising candidates to replace the conventionally used SiO2 or SiOxNy in complementary metal oxide semiconductor devices. The films were characterized with various methods. The capacitance equivalent oxide thickness of 4.5nm thin films extracted from capacitance-voltage (C-V) characteristics was 0.9nm. For such films, leakage current density and the density of interface traps were 2.6×10−4A∕cm2 at ∣Vg−VFBV∣=1V and 1.4×1012∕cm2eV−1, respectively.
Spin-polarized current-induced magnetization reversal in perpendicularly magnetized L1-FePt layers
Authors: Seki T. , Mitani S. , Yakushiji K. , Takanashi K.
Published: April 2006

Current-induced magnetization reversal of perpendicularly magnetized layers was studied in current-perpendicular-to-plane giant magnetoresistance pillars with L10-FePt (001) layers. The FePt layers exhibited strong perpendicular magnetic anisotropy of the order of 107erg∕cm3. A series of magnetoresistance curves after applying pulse currents with different current densities showed that current-induced magnetization reversal from an antiparallel to a parallel alignment occurred at the current density of the order of 108A∕cm2 with the assistance of magnetic field.
Wide-band “black silicon” based on porous silicon
Authors: Ma L. L. , Zhou Y. C. , Jiang N. , Lu X. , Shao J. , Lu W. , Ge J. , Ding X. M. , Hou X. Y.
Published: April 2006

Solar cells and optical detection devices often incorporate antireflective surfaces to reduce undesired reflection and enhance optical absorption. This letter reports a “black silicon” structure of antireflective porous silicon fabricated by using electrochemical etching. The sample has a gradient-index multilayer structure, i.e., the refraction indices of the structure increase from the top (near the air) to the bottom (near the Si substrate). Reflectance below 5% is obtained over a broad wave number range (3000–28000cm−1) and the depression mechanism of the optical reflectance is analyzed by simulating the structure with the transfer matrix method. The simulated result fits the measured spectra well.
Voltage Clamp Fluorometric Measurements on a Type II Na+-coupled Pi Cotransporter: Shedding Light on Substrate Binding Order
Authors: Virkki Leila V. , Murer Heini , Forster Ian C.
Published: April 2006

Voltage clamp fluorometry (VCF) combines conventional two-electrode voltage clamp with fluorescence measurements to detect protein conformational changes, as sensed by a fluorophore covalently attached to the protein. We have applied VCF to a type IIb Na+-coupled phosphate cotransporter (NaPi-IIb), in which a novel cysteine was introduced in the putative third extracellular loop and expressed in Xenopus oocytes. Labeling this cysteine (S448C) with methanethiosulfonate (MTS) reagents blocked cotransport function, however previous electrophysiological studies (Lambert G., I.C. Forster, G. Stange, J. Biber, and H. Murer. 1999. J. Gen. Physiol. 114:637–651) suggest that substrate interactions with the protein can still occur, thus permitting study of a limited subset of states. After labeling S448C with the fluorophore tetramethylrhodamine MTS, we detected voltage- and substrate-dependent changes in fluorescence (ΔF), which suggested that this site lies in an environment that is affected by conformational change in the protein. ΔF was substrate dependent (no ΔF was detectable in 0 mM Na+) and showed little correlation with presteady-state charge movements, indicating that the two signals provide insight into different underlying physical processes. Interpretation of ion substitution experiments indicated that the substrate binding order differs from our previous model (Forster, I., N. Hernando, J. Biber, and H. Murer. 1998. J. Gen. Physiol. 112:1–18). In the new model, two (rather than one) Na+ ions precede Pi binding, and only the second Na+ binding transition is voltage dependent. Moreover, we show that Li+, which does not drive cotransport, interacts with the first Na+ binding transition. The results were incorporated in a new model of the transport cycle of type II Na+/Pi cotransporters, the validity of which is supported by simulations that successfully predict the voltage and substrate dependency of the experimentally determined fluorescence changes.
Clinical relevance of cytogenetic abnormalities at diagnosis of acquired aplastic anaemia in adults
Authors: Gupta Vikas , Brooker Carol , Tooze Jennifer A. , Yi Qi‐long , Sage Deborah , Turner David , Kangasabapathy Pamela , Marsh Judith C. W.
Published: April 2006

The outcome of 81 adult aplastic anaemia patients who had successful cytogenetics at diagnosis and received immunosuppressive therapy was evaluated. Ten patients had an abnormal karyotype, six of which had a trisomy. Four of five evaluable patients with a trisomy responded. One patient with monosomy 7 achieved a complete response and later developed haemolytic paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria but no recurrence of monosomy 7. None of the patients with a non‐numerical karyotypic abnormality responded. No significant differences in survival or later clonal disorders were observed between patients with a normal karyotype and those with an abnormal karyotype.
Disorders of menstruation and their effect on the quality of life in women with congenital factor VII deficiency
Authors: KULKARNI A. , LEE C. A. , GRIFFEON A. , KADIR R. A.
Published: April 2006

Summary. Aims and objectives To review menstrual problems in women with congenital FVII deficiency and to study their effect on the quality of life during menstruation in women with congenital FVII deficiency.

Method 14 women with congenital factor VII deficiency registered with the Haemophilia Centre at the Royal Free Hospital were interviewed and their case notes reviewed. All women completed Pictorial Blood assessment Chart (PBAC) for assessment of menstrual blood loss and a quality of life questionnaire during menstruation. Similar questionnaire and PBAC was completed by an age matched healthy control group of 23 women.

Results Median age of study group was 35 yrs and of control group 34 yrs. Median FVII level of the study group was 31.5 IU/dL Two women had severe FVII deficiency (FVII level < 10 IU/dL) and 12 women had mild‐moderate FVII deficiency. 57% women (8/14) from study group had menorrhagia (PBAC score > 100) compared with 17% (4/23) women from the control group. Six women (43%) from the study group were diagnosed with anaemia due to heavy periods, compared to two (9%) in the control group. The quality of life scores during menstruation were significantly worse in the women with FVII deficiency, compared to controls.

Conclusion Women with factor VII deficiency exhibit a spectrum of bleeding symptoms, menorrhagia being one of the commonest symptoms. This has adverse effect on their quality of life.
Shaping ability of ProFile.04 Taper Series 29 rotary nickel‐titanium instruments in simulated root canals. Part 1
Authors: THOMPSON S. A. , DUMMER P. M. H.
Published: April 2006

The aim of this study was to determine the shaping ability of ProFile.04 Taper Series 29 nickel‐titanium instruments in simulated canals. A total of 40 simulated root canals made up of four different shapes in terms of angle and position of curvature were prepared by ProFile instruments using a step‐down approach. Part 1 of this two‐part report describes the efficacy of the instruments in terms of preparation time, instrument failure, canal blockages, loss of canal length and three‐dimensional canal form. The time necessary for canal preparation was not influenced significantly by canal shape. No instrument fractures occurred but a total of 52 instruments deformed. Size 6 instruments deformed the most followed by sizes 5, 3 and 4. Canal shape did not influence significantly instrument deformation. None of the canals became blocked with debris and loss of working distance was on average 0.5 mm or less. Intracanal impressions of canal form demonstrated that most canals had definite apical stops, smooth canal walls and good flow and taper. Under the conditions of this study, ProFile.04 Taper Series 29rotary nickel‐titanium instruments prepared simulated canals rapidly and created good three‐dimensional form. A substantial number of instruments deformed but it was not possible to determine whether this phenomenon occurred because of the nature of the experimental model or through an inherent design weakness in the instruments.
The effectiveness of three irrigating solutions on root canal cleaning after hand and mechanical preparation
Authors: LIOLIOS E. , ECONOMIDES N. , PARISSIS‐MESSIMERIS S. , BOUTSIOUKIS A.
Published: April 2006

The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate and compare the efficacy of three irrigating solutions after hand and mechanical instrumentation. Sixty intact, single, straight‐rooted, human teeth were used in this study. They were instrumented using K‐files sizes 15 to 50 with hand or mechanical instrumentation. Mechanical instrumentation was with one of two handpieces, the Endocursor or Endolift. Instrumentation time for each file was 1 min. Each change of file was followed by irrigation with 1 mL 1% NaOCl. A flush of 2 mL of one of three irrigating solutions Largal Ultra, Tubulicid Plus or 50% citric acid, was administered at the end of the instrumentation and a final flush of 5 mL distilled water completed the treatment. The specimens were prepared and viewed under the scanning electron microscope. There were no significant differences in the smear layers produced by the three methods of instrumentation. The use of Largal Ultra and Tubulicid Plus removed considerable amounts of the smear layer regardless of the method of instrumentation. The use of 50% citric acid, on the other hand, removed the smear layer only partially whilst producing rather diverse findings.
Identification of a novel 120 bp allele at the TNFd microsatellite locus
Authors: Wastowski I. J. , Peres N. T. A. , Simões R. T. , Castelli E. C. , Simões A. L. , Martinez‐Rossi N. M. , Donadi E. A.
Published: April 2006

Tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) is a pro‐inflammatory cytokine mainly secreted by macrophages and T‐cells that play a key role in the pathogenesis of many infectious and inflammatory diseases. The TNF gene cluster is located within the class‐III region of the highly polymorphic major histocompatibility complex on human chromosome 6p21. A cluster of six multiallelic microsatellites has been identified in the TNF region, named TNF a–e. TNFb, TNFc, TNFd, and TNFe are (GA)n repeats, whereas TNFa and TNFf are (GT)n and (CA)n repeats, respectively. The TNFd microsatellite locus maps 8–10 kb centromeric to the TNF‐α gene, downstream to the TNF‐β gene.
Novel cynomolgus macaque MHC‐DPB1 polymorphisms in three South‐East Asian populations*
Authors: Sano K. , Shiina T. , Kohara S. , Yanagiya K. , Hosomichi K. , Shimizu S. , Anzai T. , Watanabe A. , Ogasawara K. , Torii R. , Kulski J. K. , Inoko H.
Published: April 2006

Cynomolgus macaques (Macaca fascicularis, Mafa), alias the crab‐eating monkeys or long‐tailed macaques, live across a vast range of South‐East Asia. These non‐human primates have emerged as important animal models in infectious and chronic diseases and transplantation studies, necessitating a more extensive characterization of their major histocompatibility complex polymorphic regions. The current information on the polymorphic variation or diversity of the Mafa‐DPB1 locus is largely limited in comparison with the more commonly studied rhesus macaque DPB1 locus. In this article, to better elucidate the degree and types of polymorphisms and genetic differences of Mafa‐DPB1 locus among three South‐East Asian populations and to investigate how the allele differences between macaques and humans might affect their respective immune responses, we identified 40 alleles within exon 2 of the Mafa‐DPB1 locus by DNA sequencing using 217 individuals. We also performed evolutionary and population analyses using these sequences to reveal some population‐specific alleles and trans‐species allelic conservation between the cynomolgus macaques and the rhesus macaques. Of the 40 new alleles, eight belong to a newly identified lineage group not previously found in the rhesus macaque species. This allele information will be useful for medical researchers using the cynomolgus macaques in disease and immunological studies.
Empowerment and Accountability: Evidence from the UK Privatized Water Industry
Authors: Ogden Stuart , Glaister Keith W. , Marginson David
Published: April 2006

abstract  Empowerment initiatives have become popular in recent years in programmes of organizational change, but their impact as a practical managerial policy remains shrouded in ambiguities. We attempt to provide a fuller understanding of their impact, firstly by exploring managers' understanding of what constitutes empowerment, and secondly by locating the analysis of changes in managers' experiences of empowerment in the context of their experiences of changes in accountability practices. Drawing on data from interviews with managers and a mail questionnaire, we argue that the experience of empowerment is multi‐faceted, and shaped by managers' attitudes towards it. Moreover we find that accountability plays a more significant and independent role in encouraging managers to engage in empowerment than has hitherto been acknowledged.
Refashioning Organizational Boundaries: Outsourcing Customer Service Work*
Authors: Walsh Janet , Deery Stephen
Published: April 2006

abstract In recent years there has been a discernible trend towards the outsourcing and subcontracting of work. However, there has been very little empirical research on employees' attitudes to work in outsourced firms. This study is conducted in the area of call centre services where there has been a substantial growth in the provision of external market suppliers. It examines employees' perceptions of their work and employment arrangements in both an in‐house producer and an external service provider and identifies and compares the factors that shape their organizational commitment and intentions to quit. The research found that the character of the internal labour market and the nature of the work regime were more important explanations of organizational commitment and intentions to quit in the external market supplier than in the in‐house producer. The paper discusses the implications of these findings for the quality of customer service provided under subcontracting arrangements.
Gay Glass Ceilings
Authors: FRANK JEFF
Published: April 2006

The UK Association of University Teachers conducted a 2000/01 survey of staff in six British universities to determine the experience of lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) employees holding academic and non‐academic appointments. We analyse the salaries and ranks held by LGB individuals, guided by a new model of the interaction of ‘tastes for discrimination’ and the decision to ‘come out’. We find no evidence that LGB staff suffer any disadvantage in salaries relative to heterosexuals. We do find evidence that gay/bisexual men suffer from glass ceilings comparable to those faced by heterosexual women.
Maternal medicine: Drug prescription patterns before, during and after pregnancy for chronic, occasional and pregnancy‐related drugs in the Netherlands
Authors: Bakker MK , Jentink J , Vroom F , Van Den Berg PB , De Walle HEK , De Jong‐Van Den Berg LTW
Published: April 2006

Objective  To compare the prescription of drugs in women over a period from 2 years before until 3 months after pregnancy, regarding the type of drugs used and the fetal risk.

Design  A cohort study based on pharmacy records of women giving birth to a child between 1994 and 2003.

Setting  The study was performed with data from the InterAction database, containing prescription‐drug‐dispensing data from community pharmacies.

Population  The study population included 5412 women for whom complete pharmacy records were available.

Methods  Drugs were classified into three categories: (1) drugs for chronic conditions, (2) drugs for occasional use and (3) drugs for pregnancy‐related symptoms and also classified according to the Australian classification system.

Main outcome measures  The prescription rate was calculated as the number of women per 100 women who received one or more prescriptions for a given drug within a specified time period.

Results  About 79.1% of the women received at least one prescription during pregnancy. The prescription rate for most drugs for chronic diseases and for occasional use decreased during pregnancy, whereas, as expected, the prescription rate for pregnancy‐related drugs increased. During the first trimester of pregnancy, 1.7% of all drugs prescribed for chronic conditions and 2.3% of the occasional drugs were classified as harmful.

Conclusions  The increase in prescription rate during pregnancy is caused by an increase in prescription rate of drugs for pregnancy‐related symptoms. The prescription of harmful drugs is more commonly associated with drugs for occasional use rather than with drugs for chronic conditions. Therefore, a more cautious prescribing of drugs to healthy women in the fertile age is necessary.
Dynamics of Hybridization and Introgression in Red Wolves and Coyotes
Authors: FREDRICKSON RICHARD J. , HEDRICK PHILIP W.
Published: April 2006

Abstract:  Hybridization and introgression are significant causes of endangerment in many taxa and are considered the greatest biological threats to the reintroduced population of red wolves (Canis rufus) in North Carolina (U.S.A.). Little is known, however, about these processes in red wolves and coyotes (C. latrans). We used individual‐based simulations to examine the process of hybridization and introgression between these species. Under the range of circumstances we considered, red wolves in colonizing and established populations were quickly extirpated, persisted near the carrying capacity, or had intermediate outcomes. Sensitivity analyses suggested that the probabilities of quasi extinction and persistence of red wolves near the carrying capacity were most affected by the strength of two reproductive barriers: red wolf challenges and assortative mating between red wolves and coyotes. Because model parameters for these barriers may be difficult to estimate, we also sought to identify other predictors of red wolf population fate. The proportion of pure red wolves in the population was a strong predictor of the future probabilities of red wolf quasi extinction and persistence. Finally, we examined whether sterilization can be effective in minimizing introgression while allowing the reintroduced red wolf population to grow. Our results suggest sterilization can be an effective short‐term strategy to reduce the likelihood of extirpation in colonizing populations of red wolves. Whether red wolf numbers are increased by sterilization depends on the level of sterilization effort and the acting reproductive barriers. Our results provide an outline of the conditions likely required for successful reestablishment and long‐term maintenance of populations of wild red wolves in the presence of coyotes. Our modeling approach may prove generally useful in providing insight into situations involving complex species interactions when data are few.
Ecological Determinants of Distribution Decline and Risk of Extinction in Moths
Authors: MATTILA NIINA , KAITALA VEIJO , KOMONEN ATTE , KOTIAHO JANNE S. , PÄIVINEN JUSSI
Published: April 2006

Abstract: For successful conservation of species it is important to identify traits that predispose species to the risk of extinction. By identifying such traits conservation efforts can be directed toward species that are most at risk of becoming threatened. We used data derived from the literature to determine ecological traits that affect distribution, distribution change, and the risk of extinction in Finnish noctuid moths (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae). The ecological traits we examined included body size, larval specificity, length of the flight period, and overwintering stage. In addition, in monophagous species we examined the effects of resource distribution. Larval specificity, length of the flight period, and the overwintering stage each had an independent effect on the risk of extinction when the effects of other traits were controlled by entering all traits into the same regression model. Not a single trait predicted the risk of extinction when analysis was conducted without controlling for the other traits. This discrepancy among the results suggests that a single trait may not be enough to allow prediction of the risk of extinction. Instead, it seems that for successful, predictive conservation science data on several ecological characteristics are needed.
Predicting Pathogen Introduction: West Nile Virus Spread to Galápagos
Authors: KILPATRICK A. MARM , DASZAK PETER , GOODMAN SIMON J. , ROGG HELMUTH , KRAMER LAURA D. , CEDEÑO VIRNA , CUNNINGHAM ANDREW A.
Published: April 2006

Abstract:  Emerging infectious diseases are a key threat to conservation and public health, yet predicting and preventing their emergence is notoriously difficult. We devised a predictive model for the introduction of a zoonotic vector‐borne pathogen by considering each of the pathways by which it may be introduced to a new area and comparing the relative risk of each pathway. This framework is an adaptation of pest introduction models and estimates the number of infectious individuals arriving in a location and the duration of their infectivity. We used it to determine the most likely route for the introduction of West Nile virus to Galápagos and measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of introduction. The introduction of this highly pathogenic virus to this unique World Heritage Site could have devastating consequences, similar to those seen following introductions of pathogens into other endemic island faunas. Our model identified the transport of mosquitoes on airplanes as the highest risk for West Nile virus introduction. Pathogen dissemination through avian migration and the transportation of day‐old chickens appeared to be less important pathways. Infected humans and mosquitoes transported in sea containers, in tires, or by wind all represented much lower risk. Our risk‐assessment framework has broad applicability to other pathogens and other regions and depends only on the availability of data on the transport of goods and animals and the epidemiology of the pathogen.
Viral Strategies for Intracellular Trafficking: Motors and Microtubules
Authors: Leopold Philip L. , Pfister K. Kevin
Published: April 2006

To overcome barriers to diffusion, many viruses utilize the microtubule‐associated molecular motor cytoplasmic dynein 1 to drive transport towards the nucleus of a target cell. Cytoplasmic dynein 1 generates movement towards the minus end of microtubules located at the microtubule organizing centre (MTOC), a structure that is typically in close proximity to the nucleus. Physiological cargoes for cytoplasmic dynein include membranous organelles, protein complexes and aggregates of misfolded protein. In this review, we discuss the study of microtubule‐based translocation of viruses and raise questions about the mechanisms for association with and then dissociation from cytoplasmic dynein with a goal of understanding whether viruses are seen by the intracellular trafficking machinery as functional protein complexes or misfolded protein aggregates.
Risk Factors for Voice Problems in Teachers
Authors: Kooijman P.G.C. , de Jong F.I.C.R.S. , Thomas G. , Huinck W. , Donders R. , Graamans K. , Schutte H.K.
Published: April 2006

In order to identify factors that are associated with voice problems and voice-related absenteeism in teachers, 1,878 questionnaires were analysed. The questionnaires inquired about personal data, voice complaints, voice-related absenteeism from work and conditions that may lead to voice complaints and absenteeism. Different factors play a role in the development and consolidation of voice problems. Physical and psycho-emotional factors appear to be the most important risk factors. Remarkably, voice load and environment seem to be less important as risk factors in the development and consolidation of voice complaints. Teachers who experienced voice problems during their training reported more voice problems during their career. The results of this study stress the importance of a multifactorial approach in the diagnosis and treatment of voice problems, whereby physical and psycho-emotional aspects should be considered as sensitive to the risk of developing voice problems. Moreover, this study shows the crucial importance of adequate voice training during the teacher training programme.
Epidemiology of Voice Problems in Dutch Teachers
Authors: de Jong F.I.C.R.S. , Kooijman P.G.C. , Thomas G. , Huinck W.J. , Graamans K. , Schutte H.K.
Published: April 2006

In order to assess voice complaints and absence from work due to voice problems among teachers of primary and secondary education, as well as among a control group, 2,117 questionnaires were analysed. The total group consisted of 1,878 teachers and 239 controls. Female teachers more frequently reported voice complaints and absence from work due to voice problems than their male colleagues. No unequivocal relationship between age on the one hand and voice complaints and absence from work due to voice problems on the other hand was observed. Therefore, the percent of cases was corrected for gender but not for age. More than half of the teachers reported voice problems during their career and about one fifth had a history of absence from work due to voice problems. These numbers are relatively high compared to those of the controls with as well as to those without a vocally demanding profession. More than 20% of the teachers sought medical help or had been treated for a voice problem. Remarkably, more than 12% of the teachers had experienced voice problems during their training and this group reported significantly more voice complaints and absence from work due to voice problems in their career than the colleagues without voice problems during the training. The results of the Voice Handicap Index scores followed these trends. These findings point at voice problems during education as a risk factor for getting voice problems during the career. The results of this study clearly demonstrate that teaching is a high-risk profession for the development of voice problems, which is in accordance with other studies and support the contention that voice is a worldwide problem in the teaching profession. Furthermore, this study indicates the importance of voice care not only during training for the profession but also during the career.
Can Stress Management at the Workplace Prevent Depression? A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Mino Yoshio , Babazono Akira , Tsuda Toshihide , Yasuda Nobufumi
Published: April 2006

Background: Stress, mental health and depression at the workplace have emerged as common and significant problems. The effectiveness of a stress-management program at the workplace was investigated. Methods: The effectiveness of a stress-management program was examined in workers at a highly stressful workplace using a randomized controlled trial. The 58 workers in the office were randomly assigned into a stress-management group (n = 28) and a control group (n = 30). The stress-management program included lectures on the perception of stress, measures to cope with it, stress-management recording sheets, and e-mail counseling. This program was based on the cognitive behavioral approach. The stress-management program was carried out for 3 months, and perceived work-related stress and psychological symptoms were evaluated using: General Health Questionnaire (GHQ)-30, Center for Epidemiologic Study for Depression (CES-D), the Questionnaire of Work-Related Stress and the Effort-Reward Imbalance Questionnaire. Twenty-one out of the 28 in the stress-management group and all in the control group were successfully followed up. Results: In the stress-management group, a significant improvement in the depressive symptoms was observed, compared with the control group in CES-D (p = 0.003 by two-tailed paired t-test, and p = 0.042 by repeated measure analysis of variance). In the multiple regression analysis, the effect of stress management on depressive symptoms at follow-up was significant (p = 0.041), controlling for potential confounding factors. However, the alleviation of perceived occupational stress was limited. Conclusions: A stress-management program based on the cognitive behavioral approach at the workplace may have potential for the prevention of depression.
Antibacterial Non-Glycosidase Activity of Invertebrate Destabilase-Lysozyme and of Its Helical Amphipathic Peptides
Authors: Zavalova L.L. , Yudina T.G. , Artamonova I.I. , Baskova I.P.
Published: April 2006

Background: Since bactericidal properties of some lysozymes are independent of their glycosidase activity, we have investigated this phenomenon for destabilase-lysozyme (DL) from medicinal leech (Hirudo medicinalis). Methods: Glycosidase activity was determined on Micrococcus luteus, non-enzymatic antibacterial activity of heat-treated DL and of synthetic peptides α1, α2 and α3 (fragments of its primary structure) on M. luteus, Escherichia coli, Bacillus brevis and Streptomyces chrysomallus. Results: Glycosidase activity disappeared after the heating of native DL at 100°C for 40 min. Antibacterial activity of heat-treated DL for M. luteus MDMSU128 and MDMSU140 expressed as minimal inhibitory concentration was 9.8·10–8 and 12·10–8 M, respectively, and to E. coli MDMSU52 11·10–8M. Antibacterial activity of synthetic peptide α1 for M. luteus MDMSU128 and for E. coli MDMSU52 was 8.3·10–5 and 4.9·10–5M, respectively. Conclusion: DL is the first invertebrate lysozyme with combined enzymatic and non-enzymatic antibacterial action.
Effect of Hemodialysis on the Thickness of Vocal Folds: A Possible Explanation for Postdialysis Hoarseness
Authors: Ori Yaacov , Sabo Reni , Binder Yuval , Weinstein Talia , Korzets Asher , Ori Gilad , Gafter Uzi , Chagnac Avry
Published: April 2006

Background: Determining the dry weight of chronically hemodialysed patients is a common problem. Patients on intermittent hemodialysis often experience transient hoarseness at the end of dialysis. The vocal folds may be affected by the hydration state. Aim: To test the hypothesis that postdialysis hoarseness may be related to changes in the thickness of the vocal folds. Methods: Twenty-five stable chronic hemodialysis patients underwent endoscopic nasopharyngeal laryngoscopy before and after dialysis. Pictures of the vocal folds were taken and the folds were measured using computer software. Eighteen vocal folds from 16 patients were technically adequate for analysis. The change in the width/length ratio of the vocal folds (W/L) was used as a measurement of the folds’ thickness. Results: W/L decreased from 0.175 ± 0.011 before dialysis to 0.152 ± 0.009 after dialysis (p < 0.01, mean reduction 10.9 ± 3.8%). Patients’ weight decreased by 4.7 ± 0.3% (p < 0.0001), systolic blood pressure decreased by 15.0 ± 3.1% (p < 0.001), diastolic blood pressure decreased by 13.0 ± 3.6% (p < 0.01), and mean blood pressure decreased by 14.1 ± 3.1% (p < 0.001). Sixty percent of the patients had postdialysis hoarseness, and in 72% of the patients a decrease in the vocal folds’ thickness was observed. Conclusions: Chronic hemodialysis patients may experience transient postdialysis hoarseness, and a decrease in the vocal folds’ thickness. The latter may result from dehydration.
Observations of the Subtropical Mode Water Evolution from the Kuroshio Extension System Study
Authors: Qiu Bo , Hacker Peter , Chen Shuiming , Donohue Kathleen A. , Watts D. Randolph , Mitsudera Humio , Hogg Nelson G. , Jayne Steven R.
Published: April 2006

Properties and seasonal evolution of North Pacific Ocean subtropical mode water (STMW) within and south of the Kuroshio Extension recirculation gyre are analyzed from profiling float data and additional hydrographic and shipboard ADCP measurements taken during 2004. The presence of an enhanced recirculation gyre and relatively low mesoscale eddy variability rendered this year favorable for the formation of STMW. Within the recirculation gyre, STMW formed from late-winter convection that reached depths greater than 450 m near the center of the gyre. The lower boundary of STMW, corresponding to σθ ≃ 25.5 kg m−3, was set by the maximum depth of the late-winter mixed layer. Properties within the deep portions of the STMW layer remained largely unchanged as the season progressed. In contrast, the upper boundary of the STMW layer eroded steadily as the seasonal thermocline deepened from late April to August. Vertical eddy diffusivity responsible for this erosion was estimated from a budget analysis of potential vorticity to be in the range of ∼2–5 × 10−4 m2 s−1. The latitudinal extent of the STMW formation was narrow, extending from 30°N to the Kuroshio Extension jet near 35°N. South of 30°N, STMW did not form locally but was transported from the recirculation gyre by lateral induction.