bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Generalizations of the simple epidemic process
Authors: Billard L. , Lacayo H. , Langberg N. A.
Published: April 2006

Recently, Billard, Lacayo and Langberg (1979) considered the classical simple epidemic process from the viewpoint of interinfection times. However, this concept can be expanded to include arbitrary generalized simple epidemic processes as well as non-exponential interinfection times. This work finds the distribution of the number of infectives for these generalizations as well as the mean and variance.
Remainder term estimate for the asymptotic normality of the number of renewals
Authors: Englund Gunnar
Published: April 2006

It is well known that the number of renewals in the time interval [0, t] for an ordinary renewal process is approximately normally distributed under general conditions. We give a remainder term estimate for this normal distribution approximation.
Random exchanges of information
Authors: Haigh John
Published: April 2006

Suppose that n persons each know a different piece of information, and that, whenever a pair of them talk on the telephone, each tells the other all the information he knows at that time. If the calls are made at random, we show that the expected number of calls required for everyone to know all n pieces of information is asymptotically 1.5 n log n + O(n). This sharpens an earlier result of D. W. Boyd and J. M. Steele. Some numerical comparisons are given.
Sur une caractérisation des vidanges fortes: corrections and extensions
Authors: Dion Jean-Guy
Published: April 2006

A draining is a stochastic process defined by an urn scheme where the successive drawings are made without replacement and according to a drawing algorithm associated with a weighted graph. A draining is said to be a strong one if the number of balls which can be drawn from the urn (under the algorithm) converges in probability to the total number of balls in the urn at the beginning of the drawing when it goes to infinity. In particular, drainings associated with complete graphs having equal weights are found to be strong and for some others associated weighted graphs, strong drainings exist.
Random arcs on the circle
Authors: Siegel Andrew F.
Published: April 2006

Place n arcs of equal lengths randomly on the circumference of a circle, and let C denote the proportion covered. The moments of C (moments of coverage) are found by solving a recursive integral equation, and a formula is derived for the cumulative distribution function. The asymptotic distribution of C for large n is explored, and is shown to be related to the exponential distribution.
A note on record times
Authors: Westcott Mark
Published: April 2006

This note indicates two alternative proofs for a result of Galambos and Seneta [1] on the distribution of ratios of successive record times in a sequence of independent and identically distributed random variables. Some consequences of one method of proof are discussed, and its analogues in a continuous time setting are described.
A decomposition for multistate monotone systems
Authors: Block Henry W. , Savits Thomas H.
Published: April 2006

A decomposition theorem for multistate structure functions is proven. This result is applied to obtain bounds for the system performance function. Another application is made to interpret the multistate structures of Barlow and Wu. Various concepts of multistate importance and coherence are also discussed.
Measuring the association of a time series and a point process
Authors: Willie J. S.
Published: April 2006

We consider a bivariate stochastic process where one component is an ordinary time series and the other is a point process. In the stationary case, a useful measure of the association of the time series and the point process is provided by a conditional intensity function, ṙ11(x;u), which gives the intensity with which events occur near time t given that the time series takes on a value x at time t + u. In this paper we consider the estimation of the function ṙ11(x;u) and certain related functions that are also useful in partially characterizing the degree of interdependence of the time series and the point process. Histogram and smoothed histogram-type estimates are proposed and asymptotic distributions of these estimates are derived. We also discuss an application of the estimation theory to the analysis of some data from a neurophysiological study.
Covariation of a time series and a point process
Authors: Willie J. S.
Published: April 2006

Let {X(t), N(t)}, – ∞< t <∞, be a stationary bivariate stochastic process where X(t) is an ordinary time series and N(t) is an orderly point process counting the number of points in (0, t]. Suppose values of {X(t), N(t)} are available for 0< t ≦T and let σ1, σ2, ···, σ N(T) denote the jump points of N(t) in (0, T]. For |v| < T, define mT12(υ)=∑ X (σj+υ)/T and μT12(υ)=∑ X (σj+υ)/∑1 where all summations are over indices j such that 0<σj, σj+υ≦T for some σj. The functions MT12(υ) and μT12(υ) are often useful in analyzing the covariation of the time series and point process. In this paper, we shall develop some statistical properties of the functions MT12(υ) and μT12(υ) and discuss some specific situations where it is useful to consider these functions.
Optimal number of units for a parallel system
Authors: Nakagawa Toshio
Published: April 2006

This paper considers a problem of determining the optimal number of units for a parallel redundant system. The optimal number N∗ to minimize the expected cost is given by a unique solution of equations. When the system is replaced before failure at time T, the optimal N∗ and T∗ are discussed, and a computing procedure for obtaining these values is specified.
Critical Galton–Watson processes by decreasing state-dependent immigration
Authors: Mitov K. V. , Yanev N. M.
Published: April 2006

This paper deals with the Foster–Pakes model for Galton–Watson branching processes allowing immigration whenever the number of particles is 0. In the critical case we investigate the asymptotic behaviour of the probability of non-extinction, of the expectation and of the variance, and obtain different types of limit theorems depending on the temporally-decreasing sizes of the immigrants.
Polynomially additive entropies
Authors: Ebanks Bruce R.
Published: April 2006

This paper introduces a property of entropies called polynomial additivity, which includes the additivity properties of the Shannon entropy and of entropies of all degrees. The forms of all such entropies with the sum property and range of infinite cardinality are found. Of these, the only ones with the measurable sum property are affine transformations of the Shannon entropy, the entropies of all degrees, and the length of the distribution.
On a problem of the busy-period determination in queues with infinitely many servers
Authors: Dvurečenskij A. , Kuljukina L. A. , Ososkov G. A.
Published: April 2006

In this paper the probability distribution of the discrete busy period of the 〈M, 1, GI/∞, 1〉 queue and some of its stability properties are given.
On the number of uniform random variables which must be added to exceed a given level
Authors: Russell K. G.
Published: April 2006

This note obtains the distribution of N(a), the number of independent random variables each distributed uniformly on (0, 1) which must be added for the sum first to exceed some positive constant a.
A self-excited migration process
Authors: Branford A. J.
Published: April 2006

Processes whose entities would be independent but whose behaviour is influenced by environmental variables, which they in turn affect, are processes with mediated interactions. The independent open migration process with which is associated a random variable, the excitation, is such a process. This self-excited (conditionally) independent open migration process, with finite excitation, is related to a derived process, its piecewise-deterministic analogue. The correspondence gives insight into the process, as well as an equilibrium independence result. A simple example illustrates the presence of paroxysmal phenomena.
Regularity conditions for semi-Markov and Markov chains in continuous time
Authors: Gerrard Russell
Published: April 2006

The classical condition for regularity of a Markov chain is extended to include semi-Markov chains. In addition, for any given semi-Markov chain, we find Markov chains which exhibit identical regularity properties. This is done either (i) by transforming the state space or, alternatively, (ii) by imposing conditions on the holding-time distributions. Brief consideration is given to the problem of extending the results to processes other than semi-Markov chains.
On starr and vardi's estimates of the number of transmission sources
Authors: Hall Peter
Published: April 2006

We propose an estimator for the number of sources, N, which transmit signals according to a Poisson process with a common rate μ. This estimation problem was originated by Starr and pursued by Vardi. Our procedure is a ‘double sampling’ one and has the advantage that it can be used when μ is unknown.
Bounding the stochastic performance of continuum structure functions. I
Authors: Baxter Laurence A. , Kim Chul
Published: April 2006

A continuum structure function γ is a non-decreasing mapping from the unit hypercube to the unit interval. Minimal path (cut) sets of upper (lower) simple continuum structure functions are introduced and are used to determine bounds on the distribution of γ (Χ) when X is a vector of associated random variables and when γ is right (left)-continuous. It is shown that, if γ admits of a modular decomposition, improved bounds may be obtained.
Some results on population-size-dependent Galton-Watson processes
Authors: Höpfner Reinhard
Published: April 2006

Some classes of population-size-dependent Galton-Watson processes are considered where extinction occurs with probability 1. Results on the asymptotic behaviour of the probability of survival up to time t, mean population size and conditioned limit distributions are found to hold. They correspond to those obtained in the study of Galton-Watson processes with immigration stopped at 0.
Transience des chaines de Markov lineaires sur les permutations
Authors: Dies Jacques-Edouard
Published: April 2006

Computer scientists have introduced ‘paging algorithms' which are a special class of Markov chains on permutations known, in probability theory, as ‘libraries': books being placed on a shelf T (T is an infinite interval of the set Z of the integers) and a policy ρ : T → T such that ρ (t) < t being chosen, a book b placed at t ∊ T is selected with probability pb, it is removed and replaced at ρ (t) prior to next removal. The different arrangements of books on the shelf are the states of the Markov chain. In this paper we prove that, if the shelf is not bounded on the left, any library (i.e. for any policy ρ and any probability ρ on the books) is transient.
An urn model for cannibal behavior
Authors: Pittel B.
Published: April 2006

A sampling procedure involving an urn with red and white balls in it is studied. Initially, the urn contains n balls, r of them being white. At each step, a white ball is removed, and one more ball is selected at random, painted red (if it was white before) and put back into the urn. R. F. Green proposed this scheme in 1980 as a stochastic model of cannibalistic behavior in a biological population, with red balls interpreted as cannibals. Of primary interest is the distribution of Xnr, the terminal number of red balls. A study of R. F. Green and C. A. Robertson led them to conjecture that, for r = 1 and n →∞, Xnr is asymptotically normal with mean ≈ n exp(–1) and variance ≈ n(3 exp(–2) –exp(–1)). In this paper we prove that the conjecture — its natural extension, in fact — is true. Namely, for r/n bounded away from 1, Xnr is shown to be asymptotically normal with mean ≈ n exp(ρ – 1) and variance ≈ n exp[2(ρ – 1)] (ρ2– 3ρ + 3 – exp(l – ρ)); ρ = r/n.
A piecewise Markovian model for simulated annealing with stochastic cooling schedules
Authors: Kolonko M.
Published: April 2006

We introduce a stochastic process with discrete time and countable state space that is governed by a sequence of Markov matrices . Each Pm is used for a random number of steps Tm and is then replaced by Pm+1. Tm is a randomized stopping time that may depend on the most recent part of the state history. Thus the global character of the process is non-Markovian.

This process can be used to model the well-known simulated annealing optimization algorithm with randomized, partly state depending cooling schedules. Generalizing the concept of strong stationary times (Aldous and Diaconis [1]) we are able to show the existence of optimal schedules and to prove some desirable properties. This result is mainly of theoretical interest as the proofs do not yield an explicit algorithm to construct the optimal schedules.
Approximation to the exit probability of a continuous Gaussian process over a U-shaped boundary of increasing curvature
Authors: Balabushkin A. N.
Published: April 2006

A simple approximation to the probability of crossing a U-shaped boundary by a Brownian motion is given. The larger the second derivative of the curve at a minimum point, the higher the accuracy of the approximation. The result is also extended to a class of continuous Gaussian processes with definite properties. Numerical examples are given.
Une généralisation du modèle de diffusion de Bernoulli–Laplace
Authors: Taïbi Djaouad
Published: April 2006

A generalization of the Bernoulli–Laplace diffusion model is proposed. We consider the case where the number of balls exchanged is greater than one. We show that the stationary distribution is the same as in the classical scheme and we give the mean and the variance of the process. In a second stage, we study the asymptotic approximation based on the diffusion process. A solution of transition density is given using Legendre polynomials.
Putting more eggs in the best basket: clutch‐size regulation in the comma butterfly
Authors: Bergström Anders , Janz Niklas , Nylin Sören
Published: April 2006

Abstract.  1. Many studies have identified different factors influencing clutch‐size regulation, primarily within various groups of insects. One prediction is that ovipositing females should increase clutch size with host quality. However, in many studies it is not clear whether ovipositing females are responding to host quality or quantity.

2. Females of the polyphagous comma butterfly, Polygonia c‐album (L.), were allowed to oviposit on two hosts differing greatly in quality: the preferred host, stinging nettle (Urtica dioica L.), and the low‐ranked host, birch (Betula pubescens Ehrh). Ovipositing females were observed visually and clutch sizes were recorded. The experiment was repeated in three different years; in total, 938 observations of oviposition events were made.

3. In all three years, females ovipositing on U. dioica laid larger clutches (median 1.6–1.85) compared with females ovipositing on B. pubescens (median 1.0–1.3). The difference was significant in two out of three years and when all three years were pooled.

4. Thus, P. c‐album females exhibit clutch‐size regulation, with larger clutches on better hosts. It is suggested that the proximate mechanism is likely to be a response to the same stimuli used for female ranking of host plants in the preference hierarchy.
Genetic signature of recent glaciation on populations of a near‐shore marine fish species (Syngnathus leptorhynchus)
Authors: WILSON A. B.
Published: April 2006

Continental glaciation has played a major role in shaping the present‐day phylogeography of freshwater and terrestrial species in the Northern Hemisphere. Recent work suggests that coastal glaciation during ice ages may have also had a significant impact on marine species. The bay pipefish,Syngnathus leptorhynchus, is a near‐shore Pacific coast fish species with an exceptionally wide latitudinal distribution, ranging from Bahia Santa Maria, Baja California to Prince William Sound, Alaska. Survey data indicate thatS. leptorhynchusis experiencing a range expansion at the northern limit of its range, consistent with colonization from southern populations. The present study uses six novel microsatellite markers and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequence data to study the present‐day population genetic structure of four coastal populations ofS. leptorhynchus. Deficits in mtDNA and nuclear DNA diversity in northern populations from regions glaciated during the last glacial maximum (LGM) [c. 18 000 years before present (bp)] suggest that these populations were effected by glacial events. Direct estimates of population divergence times derived from both isolation and isolation‐with‐migration models of evolution are also consistent with a postglacial phylogenetic history of populations north of the LGM. Sequence data further indicate that a population at the southern end of the species range has been separated from the three northern populations since long before the last interglacial event (c. 130 000 yearsbp), suggesting that topographical features along the Pacific coast may maintain population separation in regions unimpacted by coastal glaciation.
Effect of ambient temperature on mechanosensory host location in two parasitic wasps of different climatic origin
Authors: KRODER STEFAN , SAMIETZ JÖRG , DORN SILVIA
Published: April 2006

Abstract Several parasitic wasps of the Pimplinae (Ichneumonidae) use self‐produced vibrations transmitted through plant substrate to locate their concealed immobile hosts (lepidopteran pupae) by reflected signals. This mechanosensory mechanism of host location, called vibrational sounding, depends on the physical characteristics of the plant substrate and the wasp’s body and is postulated to depend on ambient temperature. Adaptations of two parasitoid species to thermal conditions of their habitats and the influence of temperature on the trophic interaction during host location are investigated in the tropical Xanthopimpla stemmator (Thunberg) and compared with the temperate Pimpla turionellae (L.). Plant‐stem models with hidden host mimics are offered to individual wasps under defined temperature treatments and scored for the number and location of ovipositor insertions. Significant effects of temperature are found on host‐location activity and its success. The tropical species possesses an optimum temperature range for vibrational sounding between 26 and 32 °C, whereas the performance decreases both at low and high temperatures. The temperate species reveals substantial differences with respect to performance at the same thermal conditions. With increasing temperature, P. turionellae shows a reduced response to the host mimic, reduced numbers of ovipositor insertions, and decreased precision of mechanosensory host location. In the tropical X. stemmator, the female wasps are able to locate their host with high precision over a broad range of ambient temperatures, which suggests endothermic thermoregulation during vibrational sounding. Environmental physiology may therefore play a key role in adaptation of the host location mechanism to climatic conditions of the species’ origin.
Fluvial response to active extension: evidence from 3D seismic data from the Frio Formation (Oligo‐Miocene) of the Texas Gulf of Mexico Coast, USA
Authors: MAYNARD JAMES R.
Published: April 2006

Tectonic deformation of the land surface is known to influence the gradient, water and sediment discharge and the grain‐size of modern fluvial systems. Any change in these variables alters the equilibrium of a fluvial system, potentially causing a change in channel morphology. 3D seismic data from the Tertiary (Miocene) age, Upper Frio Formation, Kelsey Field, South Texas, in the US are used to examine changing fluvial channel morphology through time during a period of active growth of a rollover anticline in the hangingwall of a normal fault (the Vicksburg Fault). The studied interval varies between 22 and 47 m thick, and spans several hundred thousand years. It consists of an alternation of fluvial sandstones, overbank mudstones and coal. Seismic extractions show the evolution of sinuous fluvial channels during a phase of growth fault activity. Prior to growth, a single sinuous channel is imaged. During growth, the fluvial system became decapitated by a developing rollover anticline, and a highly sinuous drainage network formed, with frequent avulsion events, headward propagation of streams and related stream capture. Increased channel sinuosity was spatially associated with increased avulsion frequency in the area down dip to the east of the rollover anticline, more than 10 km from the active fault. More than 25 m of relative accommodation developed on the flank of the growing rollover anticline compared with on the crest. The increased channel sinuosity is interpreted as reflecting an increase in longitudinal valley slope analogous to observations made in flume experiments and modern river systems. The increase in avulsion frequency is attributed to increased aggradation as the rivers adjusted back to equilibrium grade following the increase in slope.
Genetic mating patterns studied in pools with manipulated nest site availability in two populations of Pomatoschistus minutus
Authors: Singer A. , Kvarnemo C. , Lindström K. , Svensson O.
Published: April 2006

Pomatoschistus minutus show paternal care in a resource defence mating system. We investigated the effect of nest-site availability on parasitic spawning. Each experimental pool contained four potentially nest-building males, four females and nests-sites in shortage (2) or excess (6). Both treatments were conducted in two populations; one with natural nest-sites in excess, one with a nest-site shortage. Microsatellite-DNA revealed that all nest-holders had fertilized most of the eggs they tended. Yet, 35% of the nests contained eggs fertilized by another male and 14.4% of the males had performed parasitic spawning. There was no site or treatment effect. Several females spawned in two nests, which coincided with parasitic spawnings, suggesting a cost to the nest-holder in terms of lost mating success. Nest-holders with and without eggs and non-nesting males all spawned parasitically, generating a significantly lower opportunity for sexual selection compared to if there had been no parasitic spawning.
Foraging Patch Selection and Departure by Non‐Omniscient Foragers: A Field Example in White‐Fronted Geese
Authors: Amano Tatsuya , Ushiyama Katsumi , Fujita Go , Higuchi Hiroyoshi
Published: April 2006

Animals often face great uncertainty as to the quality of foraging patches. There have been a number of theoretical studies investigating how non‐omniscient predators, i.e. predators that are unable to assess foraging patch quality prior to patch exploitation, should forage in a heterogeneous environment, but empirical studies, especially in the field, are scarce. This paper describes the way in which white‐fronted geese Anser albifrons forage on harvest remains of rice, focusing on the processes of patch selection and departure. Not only in autumn, but also in spring when rice depletion has progressed, patch rice density showed no positive effect on patch selection by geese, indicating the incapability of geese to select the most profitable patch. Instead, the geese tended to select patches with a large proportion of rice fields that were near the roost and a previously visited patch and bordered by a small number of windbreaks only. The rice consumption volume by geese increased with increasing initial rice density, while giving‐up density was independent of initial rice density and was positively correlated to the mean rice density of the habitat. This suggests that the geese could compensate their lack of information on patch quality at the moment of patch selection by leaving less profitable patches earlier. We discuss the necessity of predictive models based on random patch selection and an appropriate departure rule to explain the distribution of individuals of species with limited information on patch quality.
Measurement and modelling of residual stress effects on cracks
Authors: SHERRY A. H. , DA FONSECA J. QUINTA , GOLDTHORPE M. R. , TAYLOR K.
Published: April 2006

Defects that form by mechanisms such as fatigue and stress corrosion cracking are influenced both by external loads on engineering structures and internal, residual stresses that are generated during the manufacture and operation. This paper describes a programme of experimental and analytical work on a high‐strength, low‐toughness aluminium alloy (AL2024‐T351) to assess the influence of residual stress on crack opening displacement (COD) and crack‐driving force (CDF) for a range of fatigue crack lengths in compact tension (CT) specimens containing a mechanically induced residual stress field. Comparison of experimentally measured and numerically predicted CODs, at the mid‐plane and surface of CT specimens, show generally good agreement for cracks introduced into the finite‐element model in a progressive, element‐by‐element manner. Cracks introduced in a simultaneous manner give larger than observed CODs. The CDFs for the progressively introduced crack are always smaller than for simultaneously introduced. These results have implications for the assessment of initiation for slowly growing cracks.
Grand mal seizures: an unusual and puzzling primary presentation of ruptured hepatic hydatid cyst
Authors: MEYER PHILIPPE G. , BONNEVILLE CLAIRE , ORLIAGUET GILLES A. , DESSEMME PHILIPPE , BLAKIME PHILIPPE , CARLI PIERRE A. , REVILLON YANN
Published: April 2006

We report a case of hepatic hydatidosis where the first clinical manifestations, generalized seizures after minor head and abdominal trauma, and delayed anaphylaxis, made the primary diagnosis difficult. Severe anaphylaxis has been reported as initial presentation of quiescent hepatic hydatidosis. In endemic areas, the diagnosis must be carefully ruled out in patients experiencing abrupt anaphylactic shock of uncertain etiology. The occurrence of unexplained vascular collapse after minor abdominal trauma in a patient originating from an endemic area should prompt the diagnosis and urgent treatment should be initiated; firstly emergency management of the anaphylactic shock and later, surgical treatment of the cysts.
Management of right ventricular outflow tract reactivity following pulmonary valve dilatation under general anesthesia: experience of a medical mission
Authors: KHAMBATTA HOSHANG J. , VELADO MAURICIO , GAFFNEY JOSEPH W. , SCHECHTER WILLIAM S. , CASTA ALFONSO
Published: April 2006

During a recent volunteer medical mission to the Dominican Republic, we administered anesthesia to a child with severe pulmonary valvular stenosis and suprasystemic right ventricular pressure. This patient underwent a balloon pulmonary valvuloplasty but then developed worsening right ventricular outflow tract obstruction that required immediate therapy to prevent a low cardiac output state. As the development of hyperdynamic right ventricular outflow tract obstruction cannot be predicted, we emphasize the need for preemptive hydration and beta‐blockade therapy prior to balloon dilatation.
A flow cytometric method for detection and enumeration of low‐level, residual red blood cells in platelets and mononuclear cell products
Authors: Santana Julie M. , Dumont Larry J.
Published: April 2006

BACKGROUND:  Conventional automated cell counters cannot accurately count residual red blood cells (rRBCs) that are often present in various blood products. A two‐color flow cytometric method (FC) was validated for detecting and enumerating rRBCs in platelets (PLTs) and mononuclear cell (MNC) products.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS:  PLT and MNC products for PLTs (CD61–fluorescein isothiocyanate) and rRBC (anti‐glycophorin A–phycoerythrin) were double stained, and data were acquired with a flow cytometer. Assay linearity, accuracy, and precision were assessed with a standard‐dilution series of rRBCs. This assay was used to determine the rRBCs of apheresis PLTs collected with Trima Accel (Gambro BCT) and MNC products collected with the COBE Spectra (Gambro BCT).

RESULTS:  The linear range of this assay in PLT and MNC products is 10 to 2000 RBCs per µL (R2 = 0.994). FC had a mean intraassay coefficient of variation of 11.8 percent at 34 RBCs per µL. A standard clinical hematology analyzer overestimated rRBCs in MNC products by 1.59 × 105 ± 0.7 × 105 RBCs per µL. Apheresis PLTs had a median of 17.4 RBCs per µL, with 99.0 percent containing fewer than 90.0 RBCs per µL.

CONCLUSIONS:  This method for determining rRBCs in blood products is accurate and repeatable with a lower limit of detection adequate to assess currently available blood products. FC should be considered for determining rRBCs in MNC products.
Sterols of the Syndinian Dinoflagellate Amoebophrya sp., a Parasite of the Dinoflagellate Alexandrium tamarense (Dinophyceae)
Authors: LEBLOND JEFFREY D. , SENGCO MARIO R. , SICKMAN JAMES O. , DAHMEN JEREMY L. , ANDERSON DONALD M.
Published: April 2006

ABSTRACT. Several harmful photosynthetic dinoflagellates have been examined over past decades for unique chemical biomarker sterols. Little emphasis has been placed on important heterotrophic genera, such as Amoebophrya, an obligate, intracellular parasite of other, often harmful, dinoflagellates with the ability to control host populations naturally. Therefore, the sterol composition of Amoebophrya was examined throughout the course of an infective cycle within its host dinoflagellate, Alexandrium tamarense, with the primary intent of identifying potential sterol biomarkers. Amoebophrya possessed two primary C27 sterols, cholesterol and cholesta‐5,22Z‐dien‐3β‐ol (cis‐22‐dehydrocholesterol), which are not unique to this genus, but were found in high relative percentages that are uncommon to other genera of dinoflagellates. Because the host also possesses cholesterol as one of its major sterols, carbon‐stable isotope ratio characterization of cholesterol was performed in order to determine whether it was produced by Amoebophrya or derived intact from the host. Results indicated that cholesterol was not derived intact from the host. A comparison of the sterol profile of Amoebophrya to published sterol profiles of phylogenetic relatives revealed that its sterol profile most closely resembles that of the (proto)dinoflagellate Oxyrrhis marina rather than other extant genera.
LASIK after retinal detachment surgery
Authors: Farvardin Mohsen , Farvardin Majid , Hosseini Hamid
Published: April 2006

Purpose:  To compare, in the same individuals, the safety and efficacy of laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) in eyes with and without previous retinal detachment surgery.

Methods:  In a prospective clinical trial, seven myopic patients who had previously undergone scleral buckling surgery in one eye underwent conventional LASIK surgery in both eyes. Uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), refraction, Orbscan topography and pachymetry were recorded before and 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after surgery. The eyes were divided into two groups: group 1 consisted of eyes that had undergone previous surgery for retinal detachment, and group 2 consisted of the fellow eyes of the same patients, which had not undergone any previous ocular surgery. Student's t‐test for match‐paired data was used to evaluate the significance of differences.

Results:  LASIK was performed successfully in all patients. The UCVA improved in all eyes in both groups. The mean change in the spherical equivalent between 1 and 12 months after LASIK surgery was 1.7 ± 1.1 and 0.6 ± 0.5 diopter in groups 1 and 2, respectively (p = 0.019).

Conclusion:  LASIK may be considered for treatment of myopia in eyes that have had previous surgery for retinal detachment. However, the risk of regression may be higher in such eyes than in eyes with no previous scleral buckling surgery.
Choroidal neovascular membrane in a series of cases of malignant melanoma of the choroid
Authors: Guerin Eoin , Hiscott Paul , Damato Bertil
Published: April 2006

Purpose:  To examine a series of choroidal melanoma specimens to determine the frequency of overlying choroidal neovascularization (CNV) and to ascertain whether CNV over choroidal malignant melanoma is associated with any particular histological tumour characteristics.

Methods:  We carried out a retrospective histological analysis of globes containing choroidal melanomas for evidence of choroidal neovascular membranes.

Results:  Microscopic evidence of choroidal neovascular membranes was evident in 6% of cases. Choroidal neovascularization was not associated with any particular histological tumour characteristic.

Conclusion:  Choroidal neovascularization over choroidal malignant melanoma is not an infrequent occurrence and possibly appears as frequently as CNV over choroidal naevi. The presence of a choroidal neovascular membrane over a pigmented fundal lesion should not be taken as reassurance that the lesion is benign.
Influence of calcium on the proteolytic degradation of the calmodulin‐like skin protein (calmodulin‐like protein 5) in psoriatic epidermis
Authors: Méhul Bruno , Bernard Dominique , Brouard Michel , Delattre Caroline , Schmidt Rainer
Published: April 2006

Abstract:  The calmodulin‐like skin protein (CLSP) or so‐called calmodulin‐like protein 5, a recently discovered skin‐specific calcium‐binding protein, is closely related to keratinocyte differentiation. The 16‐kDa protein is proteolytically degraded in the upper layers of the stratum corneum (SC) of healthy skin. With the use of specific new monoclonal antibodies to CLSP, we were able to demonstrate that the abnormal elevated levels of CLSP, characteristic of psoriatic epidermis, were probably not due to an overexpression of the protein, but most likely the result of its non‐degradation. Further in vitro experiments using recombinant CLSP and in situ data clearly showed that calcium protected and chelator accelerated CLSP degradation. These data indicate that CLSP degradation in the SC of psoriatic skin might be hindered by the abnormally elevated calcium concentration. No degradation of CLSP in psoriatic epidermis keeping its ability to bind protein as transglutaminase 3 may have a physiological role in skin diseases such as psoriasis.
Rebuilding the Feminine in Levinas's Talmudic Readings
Authors: Pazi Hanoch Ben
Published: April 2006

This study presents a reconsideration of Levinas's concept of the feminine. This reconsideration is facilitated by a philosophically informed analysis of Levinas's Talmudic readings on that subject.The innovation of this research is in its methodology, which combines the two corpora of Levinas' writings as important components of an integrated system of thought. Two main phenomena are derived here from Levinas' Talmudic readings and raise main principles of his ethics. In the heart of the discussion on Eros we find a statement of the differentiation between feminine and masculine in Levinas's thought, and its implication for gender and for the ethics of otherness. In the center of Levinas's terminology of maternity we uncover his phenomenology of pregnancy, and its ethical implication regarding responsibility to the other. The extreme responsibility committed to the other since there is a immanent conflict between parents and their child.
Development of a measure of the concerns held by people with implanted cardioverter defibrillators: The ICDC
Authors: Frizelle D. J. , Lewin B. , Kaye G. , Moniz‐Cook E. D.
Published: April 2006

Objectives. To develop a questionnaire to measure the extent and severity of the concerns of people with an implanted cardioverter defibrillator.

Design. Items were generated from patient interviews, expert review and the research literature on patients' worries and concerns. A pilot version was administered to a series of ICD patients and repeated for test‐retest reliability 6 weeks later. Psychometric tests including the scree test, factor analysis and various reliability assessments were undertaken. It was predicted that the greater the extent and severity of concerns, the greater the anxiety experienced by the ICD patient. Scores were compared with a validated measure of anxiety and depression administered at the same time.

Results. Fifty‐seven (64%) patients completed and returned the questionnaire and a further 22 (100% of those asked) completed the 6‐week retest. Reliability and validity appeared to be good and two factors were identified. Both total score and the individual factor scores correlated moderately with anxiety.

Conclusions. The questionnaire appears to reflect patients' concerns and, as predicted, these were associated with the patients' anxiety level. The scale requires further testing to reveal if it is of use both clinically and for research purposes.
Revolutions in Warfare: Theoretical Paradigms and Historical Evidence--The Napoleonic and First World War Revolutions in Military Affairs
Authors: Liaropoulos Andrew N
Published: April 2006

This article provides an alternative view for examining Revolutions in Military Affairs (RMAs), perceiving them both as sociopolitical institutions and as war-fighting models. The weaknesses in the ways in which the RMA theory has been approached are analyzed, resulting in the formation of three different, but parallel, paradigms of the RMA phenomenon (the Social Wave, the Radical Transformation, and the Continuity and Evolution). Two historical case studies, the Napoleonic RMA and the First World War RMA, are used in order to draw out the lessons learned regarding past revolutions and to examine the validity of the paradigms.
MÖGLICHKEITEN EINER REGELGEMÄSSEN STABILISIERUNG DER NOMENKLATUR KARBONISCHER PFLANZEN II
Authors: Vogellehner Dieter
Published: April 2006

The nomenclature of the sporophylls and leaves of Carboniferous arborescent Lycophyta is very confused. These specimens are described under various names which may “throw science into confusion” (Code, Preamble). It is, therefore, necessary to give a detailed study of the problem. A proposal for a new and precise denomination of the sporophylls and leaves is made utilizing the possibility created by the code to conserve certain generic names:

LepidostrobophyllumAllen. nom. cons. prop.

Sporophylls.

LepidophylloidesSnigirevskaya.

Structurally preserved leaves with simple bundle.

SigillariopsisScott. nom. cons. prop.

Structurally preserved leaves with double bundle.

SigillariophyllumGrand'Eury ex Arcangeli. nom. cons. prop.

Compressions (and impressions) of leaves.

The generic namesPoacitesandCyperitesused by several authors for phylloids of Carboniferous plants are to be applied only to Monocotyledoneae (Proposal for conservation with new type‐species).
DIVERGENCE IN MONARDA (LABIATAE)
Authors: Scora Rainer W.
Published: April 2006

A phylogenetic evaluation of the genus Monarda is presented, based upon biological divergence including anatomical, chemical, cytological and morphological characters. The evaluation is patterned after the “Wagner Divergence Index” which is based on two main assumptions: first, since there is no logically tenable way of measuring objectively the value of various characters, they are treated as of equal value; second, any character that occurs in most taxa of a given group is probably the norm and therefore unspecialized; a character appearing only in a few of the taxa of a group is considered to be specialized. Of 118 classical taxonomic characters found in the genus Monarda, only 31 were considered to have recognizable evolutionary tendencies, and of 26 chemical oil constituents only 9 were judged to have evolutionary significance.
THE GENERIC NAMES PROPOSED FOR HYMENOMYCETES‐VII “Thelephoraceae”
Authors: Donk M. A.
Published: April 2006

This seventh part deals with the Thelephoraceae as traditionally conceived, not with the family in its modern strongly emended sense.

The correct name for the genus often referred to as Hypolyssus Berk. (or Podostrombium G. Kunze) seems to be Caripia O.K. (as already previously accepted by some authors).

The typifications of Gloeotulasnella Höhn. & L., Hypochnus Fr. (non Ehrenb.), Lyomyces P. Karst., and several other names are recommended for consideration.

Two proposals for conservation are repeated: Craterellus Pers. against Craterella S. F. Gray and Hymenochaete Lév. against Hymenochaete [P. Beauv. corn] Nees.
NOMENCLATURAL AND HISTORICAL CONSIDERATIONS CONCERNING THE GENUS GALAX
Authors: Brummitt R. K.
Published: April 2006

The original Galax aphylla of Linnaeus included two quite distinct plants, one of which is usually referred to Diapensiaceae and the other to Hydrophyllaceae, and the latter must be taken as the type of the name. The generic name is now conserved in the former sense, but it is proposed that it should be cited as Galax Sims and not as Galax Rafinesque, or else that Solenandria Ventenat should be added to the list of rejected names. The correct name for the species commonly known as G. aphylla L. is shown to be G. urceolata (Poir.) Brummitt, comb. nov., and notes are given on the early discovery of the species and its introduction into cultivation in Europe. The family name Galacaceae D. Don, which has been considered illegitimate, is found to be legitimate and available for use if Galax is separated from Diapensiaceae. The original Galax aphylla L. is transferred to Nemophila (Hydrophyllaceae) as N. aphylla (L.) Brummitt, comb. nov., the correct name for the plant long known as N. microcalyx (Nutt.) Fisch. & Mey.
ON THE COMPARISON OF TWO CLASSIFICATIONS OF THE SAME SET OF ELEMENTS
Authors: Williams W. T. , Clifford H. T.
Published: April 2006

A standard method of comparing classifications is the “cophenetic correlation” technique of Sokal and Rohlf (1962). The method is re‐examined, and is shown to possess two shortcomings which make it unsuitable for the truncated, intensely‐clustering strategies now in common use. These shortcomings are (i) it is unable to distinguish between changes due to group composition and changes due to configuration of groups within the hierarchy, and (ii) it is sensitive to the convention used for representing the hierarchy in two dimensions. A revised form of the strategy is proposed which appears to overcome these difficulties.
BENJAMIN DELESSERT AND ANTOINE LASÈGUE
Authors: Stafleu Frans A.
Published: April 2006

A brief biography of the French banker, philantropist, collector and botanist Benjamin Delessert and of the curator of his botanical collections, Antoine Lasègue, author of the Musée botanique de M. Benjamin Delessert. The growth, significance, and ultimate fate of Delessert's herbarium and library are discussed against the background of the French cultural and scientific scene of the first sixty years of the nineteenth century.
A FURTHER ATTEMPT TO CLARIFY ARTICLE 35
Authors: Brummitt R. K. , Chater A. O. , Greuter W.
Published: April 2006

The failure of the Seattle Congress to clarify Article 35 of the International Code is discussed and a modified proposal is resubmitted for consideration at the Leningrad Congress. Two other proposals concerning Article 35 are also made.
PERSPECTIVES ON THE APPLICATION OF MULTIVARIATE STATISTICS TO TAXONOMY
Authors: Rohlf F. James
Published: April 2006

A brief outline is given of the principal types of multivariate statistical techniques which have found use in taxonomy. Techniques such as correlation, principal components, canonical correlation, and factor analyses are described for problems dealing with analysis of covariation within a single sample. Techniques such as canonical variate, cluster, multidimensional scaling, and network analyses are described for dealing with analyses of among sample variation. The purpose of this account is to give an intuitive understanding of what the various techniques have to offer to research in taxonomy.
HOST PLANT SPECIFICITY AND SPECIATION IN HAWAIIAN DROSOPHILA
Authors: Heed William B.
Published: April 2006

The breeding biology and host plant specificity of the Hawaiian Drosophila (Drosophilidae) are examined for evidence of sympatric speciation by comparing these attributes with those of the fugivorous flies Rhagoletis (Tephritidae). Since mate and host selection are directly correlated in Rhagoletis and since they are univoltine, this form of speciation is a real possibility. However, most of the Drosophila in Hawaii breed all year under proper conditions and the majority of closely related species utilize the same or very similar substrates for larval development thus species packing is high. Substrate specificity appears for the most part to be more important in the categories above the species level. On the other hand, even though mate and host selection are not correlated, the phenomenon of lek behavior in many species of Hawaiian Drosophila would be expected to force inbreeding and local isolation. Exactly how local the isolation is, remains for future investigation.
THE IMPLICATIONS OF ECOLOGY FOR PLANT SYSTEMATICS
Authors: Kruckeberg Arthur R.
Published: April 2006

It is plant taxonomists, not taxa, that make distinctions between the formal disciplines of ecology, evolution and systematics. For populations and species in the real world, however, there is an integrating attribute: discontinuity leading to isolation. How the ecologist can contribute to the study of disjunction is the central theme of this paper. The several areas of interaction between ecology, systematics and evolution are discussed. The contribution of ecological approaches to problems in taxonomy is illustrated with recent examples in each of the following subject areas: genecology (ecotypic variation), ecology of isolating mechanisms, ecological influences on hybridization and polyploidy, ecological bases for diversification in plant genera and families, and the use of ecological data in plant taxonomy.
LARGE FAMILIES — NOT ALONE!
Authors: Jacobs M.
Published: April 2006

A ‘large’ family of flowering plants is here defined as a family for which a taxonomist would need ten or more years to complete a monographic treatment, or a revision for one of the major floras. The number of such families increases because of the increase in materials and secondary literature. The only possible way of completing monographs or revisions of such major groups seems to be by means of team‐work.
TAXONOMIC PROBLEMS ASSOCIATED WITH CONTINUOUS VARIATION IN EUCALYPTUS PAUCIFLORA (SNOW GUM) (MYRTACEAE)
Authors: Green J. W.
Published: April 2006

Some of the taxonomic problems concerning continuous variation referred to by Böcher (1967) are exemplified in the snow gum of south‐eastern Australia, Eucalyptus pauciflora Sieb. ex Spreng.

A taxonomic study of this species was carried out in connection with an investigation of altitudinal variation in the Brindabella Range, near Canberra, where continuous though not pure stands occur between 4,000 and just over 6,000 feet (Green 1967). The species is here discussed over its whole range of distribution in south‐eastern Australia, although special emphasis is placed on the forms considered to occur in the study area.
APPLICATION DES FONCTIONS DISCRIMINANTES DE FISHER A LA CLASSIFICATION DU GENRE PLAGIOTHECIUM (MUSCI) DE BELGIQUE
Authors: Lefebvre J. , Lennes G.
Published: April 2006

The determination of the species of the moss genus Plagiothecium Br., Schimp. et Gümb. is difficult owing to the great morphological variability of these taxa. With a view to smooth things down for the bryologist and to reduce errors in identification, Fisher's discriminant functions (1951) are applied to seven belgian species of Plagliothecium: P. latebricola, P. laetum, P. curvifolium, P. denticulatum, P. sylvaticum, P. succulentum, P. roeseanum. The functions are based upon five quantitative characters concerned in the classification of that moss genus: length of the leaf, of the median leaf cells and of the four cells long propagula, width of the leaf and of the median leaf cells.

From the measurements of these morphological features, it is easy to determine any specimen with a minimum probability of mistakes.