bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Variations in sub-tropical deep weathering profiles over the Kowloon Granite, Hong Kong
Authors: SHAW R.
Published: July 2007

Variations in the physical characteristics of the weathering profile over the Kowloon Granite in Hong Kong have been established using borehole records supported by field mapping. There is a strong correlation between topography of the weathered profile base and the main structural trends. Linear zones of deep weathering have been preferentially eroded to create valleys, which subsequently became sites of alluvial and colluvial accumulation. Variations in weathering patterns are primarily a function of the geometry and infilling of relict jointing, which together determine local hydrogeology and hence intensity of weathering. Magnetic susceptibility is a reliable indicator of material weathering grade in the Kowloon Granite. Corestones are generally restricted to weathered profiles over topographically high areas, the locations of which are controlled by regional joint spacing and orientation. Corestone-bearing profiles are rare, and more commonly, deeply weathered granite without corestones passes abruptly into relatively fresh rock. This has important implications for engineering ground models derived from borehole interpretation.
A new giant ground bird from the Upper Cretaceous of southern France
Authors: BUFFETAUT E. , LE LOEUFF J.
Published: July 2007

New discoveries afford a much better knowledge of the large birds previously reported from the Upper Cretaceous of southern France on the basis of a single synsacrum fragment. An incomplete pelvis consisting of the synsacrum with part of the ilia is used to define a new taxon of bird,
Gargantuavis philoinos
, to which a femur is also referred. This bird is characterized by its very large size (comparable to that of an ostrich), a broad pelvis with an anteriorly placed acetabulum, and a short robust femur. The occurrence of this very large, flightless, bird in the Late Cretaceous shows that, contrary to widespread opinion, the evolution of large terrestrial birds was not simply the result of adaptation during the Cenozoic to ecological niches left empty by the extinction of the dinosaurs. It also strongly suggests that some of the large fossil eggs from the Upper Cretaceous of southern France were laid by large ground birds rather than dinosaurs.
Neonereites uniserialis
from
c.
600 Ma year old rocks in western Scotland and the emergence of animals
Authors: BRASIER M. D. , McILROY D.
Published: July 2007

A chain of pellets
(Neonereites uniserialis)
, usually attributed to a coelomate or pseudocoelomate metazoan, is described from the middle Dalradian Bonahaven Formation of western Scotland, in sandstones not far above the Port Askaig Tillite. This trail lies more than 8 km below U-Pb zircon-dated Tayvallich lavas (595
±
4 Ma) and predates early deformation plus intrusion by granites at Ben Vuirich dated at 597 ±11 and 590
±
2 Ma. U-Pb zircon chronology for early metazoan evolution suggests that this is the earliest putative evidence for coelomates or pseudocoelomate discovered so far, with a minimum ‘interglacial’ age of
c.
600 Ma
bp
. It is from about this time that a fall takes place in the maximum δ
13
C of carbonates, suggestive of a decline in the long term rate of carbon burial. One explanation for this decline is the increasing impact of metazoan bioturbation through the late Neoproterozoic to Cambrian interval.
Tectonostratigraphy of the Moine Supergroup: a synthesis
Authors: SOPER N. J. , HARRIS A. L. , STRACHAN R. A.
Published: July 2007

The Neoproterozoic (early Riphean) Moine Supergroup crops out extensively in the Scottish Caledonides north of the Great Glen and is characterized by structural complexity and monotonous siliciclastic lithology with a lack of biostratigraphic control. Despite these problems, it has become possible to combine locally defined successions into a regional stratigraphic framework. This permits an evaluation of the tectonic setting of Moine deposition, in a subsiding tract that became the Scottish part of the Laurentian margin when Iapetus opened in the Vendian.

Two major rift-basins are inferred, each of half-graben type, controlled by east-facing normal faults. The earlier Morar Group basin received a thick fill of dominantly shallow-marine arkosic sandstones, the Upper Morar Psammite forming a major regressive sequence. The Glenfinnan Group consists of mixed and muddy deposits that are interpreted partly as distal equivalents of the Morar Group, partly as a post-Morar transgressive thermal re-equilibration sequence. The Loch Eil Group, dominated by shallow marine arkosic and siliceous psammites, was deposited in a second, more easterly rift-basin that was subsequently juxtaposed with the Morar basin during Caledonian thrusting. Sediment dispersal in the major sandy sequences was northwards, and there is some evidence that provenance was, at least in part, from a mid-Proterozoic basement terrain to the south.

The extension-dominated depositional setting of the Moine Supergroup, and basin geometry, are similar to those inferred for the other major Riphean clastic sequences of Scotland, the ‘Torridonian’ of the foreland and the Grampian Group to the southeast. The latter is followed by Upper Riphean transgressive strata of the Appin Group. Scottish Riphean stratigraphy records a major pre-Iapetan cycle of lithospheric extension and thermal recovery, with no regional scale unconformities yet identified that might constitute evidence for contemporary orogenesis.
Timing of deformation associated with the syn-tectonic Dawros–Currywongaun–Doughruagh Complex, NW Connemara, western Ireland
Authors: WELLINGS S. A.
Published: July 2007

New data are presented that demonstrate the syn-tectonic intrusion of a suite of mafic and ultramafic magmas into the Connemara Dalradian. Magma was intruded during the local D2 episode but immediately prior to the onset of D3. Both deformation episodes affect the gabbros, forming two distinct groups of fabrics formed at different stages during the history of the intrusion. Applying thermal considerations to this history suggest that any gap in time between the formation of these fabrics was <0.5 Ma. The role played by rigid mafic intrusions in influencing the style of deformation is shown and assessed. The Renvyle–Bofin Slide is reinterpreted as an entirely late-tectonic structure related to extension of the Connemara terrane. The implications of a syn-D2/immediately pre-D3 age of emplacement of these bodies for the age of other gabbros in Connemara is discussed. It is suggested that existing tectonic schemes for the area should be modified; either events in Connemara were highly diachronous or the published ages of the gabbros are misleading.
Asymmetric late Pleistocene glaciations in the North Basin of the Baikal Rift, Russia
Authors: BACK STEFAN , STRECKER MANFRED R.
Published: July 2007

New morphological, sedimentological, and radiocarbon data of Quaternary deposits from the northern Baikal Rift document at least three extensive late Pleistocene glaciations at >50 ka, 40–35 ka, and 26–13 ka, respectively. During these periods valley glaciers advanced from the high rift shoulders (>2500 m) down to the present-day coast of Lake Baikal (456 m); in places, the glaciers advanced beyond the present-day shoreline into the lake basin as indicated by large moraines exposed in steep cliffs along the lakeshore. Furthermore, stratigraphic relations between lacustrine sequences and glacial deposits, as well as
14
C-ages of two palaeo-shorelines 10 and 4 m above the present lake level, show that the last and the penultimate glaciations were followed by relative lake highstands. These land-based observations document a significant influence of late Pleistocene glaciations on the sedimentary development of this lacustrine rift basin.

The northern Baikal Rift is characterized by an asymmetric half-graben geometry that controls river drainage and sedimentation. This asymmetry greatly influenced the development and spatial distribution of Pleistocene glaciers on both rift margins. On the western flank, tilted fault blocks parallel to the rift served as topographic barriers for valley glaciers advancing toward the lake basin; only in two locations glaciers could reach the present-day coast. On the eastern rift flank, in contrast, structure and drainage conditions allowed the development of numerous consequent streams providing thoroughfares and space for recurrent valley glaciations. Thus, the glaciers on the eastern flank could advance beyond the present-day lakeshore into the lake basin in numerous locations. These observations indicate that asymmetric rift structure in combination with the effects of global cooling were the important controls on the Pleistocene glacial development of the Baikal Rift.
Sequence stratigraphy of the Mesozoic Domeyko Basin, northern Chile
Authors: ARDILL JOHN , FLINT STEPHEN , CHONG GUILLERMO , WILKE HANS
Published: July 2007

The Domeyko Basin of northern Chile records Late Triassic to Early Cretaceous mixed carbonate and siliciclastic marine deposition along the western margin of Gondwana. Sequence stratigraphical analysis has identified five long-term sequences of 11–17 Ma duration. Comparison of the relative sea-level fluctuations interpreted from the Domeyko Basin succession with those documented from other similar-aged South American marginal basins and northern hemisphere basins allows the distinction of regional from global events. Relative sea-level fall in the Early Pliensbachian, Early Aalenian and Early Valanginian, and rises in the Early Hettangian, Early and Late Toarcian, Early and Late Bajocian, Late Bathonian and Early Oxfordian of the Domeyko Basin appear time-equivalent to similar events in other southern and northern hemisphere basins and are thus interpreted to be products of global sea-level cycles. Long-term relative sea-level falls in the Early Bathonian, Late Oxfordian, Early Valanginian and rise in the Late Kimmeridgian are interpreted to be tectonically driven, continental-scale changes in sediment-accommodation space. The Domeyko Basin succession thus appears to have been dominantly controlled by global sea-level fluctuations during the Early to Mid-Jurassic and by continental-scale (but not global) fluctuations during the Mid-Jurassic to Mid-Cretaceous, interpreted to have been driven by the fragmentation of Gondwana.
Evolution of Lascar Volcano, Northern Chile
Authors: GARDEWEG M. C. , SPARKS R. S. J. , MATTHEWS S. J.
Published: July 2007

Lascar Volcano in the Central Andes, is an ESE–WNW elongate composite stratocone. Stage I (<43 ka) formed a mafic andesite stratocone and culminated in three coarse-grained pyroclastic flow eruptions. Stage II switched to the west and magmas evolved to silicic andesite and dacite of a lava dome complex and hot rock avalanche apron. Stage II culminated with a major explosive eruption (volume 15 km
3
) at 26.45 ka producing the Soncor ignimbrite. No caldera formed. Laharic and alluvial fan deposits and a debris avalanche formed from 26.45 to 19.2 ka, indicating a humid climatic period. The dacitic and andesitic Western Stratocone (Stage III) developed over the Soncor vent. Stage III culminated in the 9.2 ka Tumbres eruption which formed andesitic scoria flow fans and a summit collapse crater. Stage IV activity switched to the east forming an andesite lava, three nested summit craters, which repeatedly filled with lava and collapsed. Absence of significant erosion since 9.2 ka is due to the much drier Holocene climate. Activity since 1984 displays cycles of lava dome formation in the summit crater, lava dome subsidence with crater collapse, vulcanian to plinian explosive eruptions culminating in the major explosive eruption of 19/20 April 1993. The total volume of magma erupted from Lascar over a 43 ka period is estimated at 30 to 40 km
3
.
Late Palaeozoic to Mesozoic structural evolution of the Falkland Islands: a displaced segment of the Cape Fold Belt
Authors: CURTIS M. L. , HYAM D. M.
Published: July 2007

The Falkland Islands lie on a displaced crustal block presently forming part of the South American plate. The islands possess two roughly orthogonal structural grains, the relative chronology of which is here unequivocally established for the first time. D1 structures form a southerly verging, Permo-Triassic age fold belt, striking E–W to WNW–ESE, which represents a displaced segment of the Gondwanian orogenic belt. The strike swing from E–W to WNW–ESE is coincident with a decrease in deformation intensity toward the west. On West Falkland, D1 folds are superimposed by the early Mesozoic D2, NE–SW-trending, Hornby Mountains anticline, producing localized kilometre-scale Type I and III fold interference patterns. The Hornby Mountains anticline is interpreted to be the result of dextral transpressive reactivation of a pre-existing NE–SW basement fault. If the Falkland Islands are rotated 180°, the structure of the D1 fold belt, and tectono-sedimentary features of the Permian age Lafonian Supergroup, display a remarkable correlation with the structural style and tectonic evolution of the eastern Cape Fold Belt of South Africa. Our data, therefore support a 180° tectonic rotation of the Falkland Islands and reaffirm their pre-Gondwana break-up position adjacent to the southeast coast of South Africa. In such a reconstruction the Falkland Islands constrain the easterly extension and eventual lateral termination of the Cape Fold Belt.
Tectonic regimes and terrane boundaries in the high-grade Sveconorwegian belt of SW Norway, inferred from U–Pb zircon geochronology and geochemical signature of augen gneiss suites
Authors: BINGEN BERNARD , VAN BREEMEN OTTO
Published: July 2007

Six units from three suites of gneissic megacrystic granitoids in the Sveconorwegian Province of SW Norway were dated by the U–Pb zircon method. The Gjerstad suite crystallized between 1.19 and 1.15 Ga in the Bamble, Telemark and Rogaland–Vest Agder terranes; it has an A-type geochemical signature suggesting intrusion in a tensional setting. The Vennesla unit of this suite yields an age of 1166+
61
−21
Ma. The Feda suite intruded in Rogaland–Vest Agder during a short period at 1.05 Ga (four units between 1051
+2
−8
and 1049
+2
−8
Ma) and has a high-K calc-alkaline trend suggesting a subduction- related setting. The Fennefoss augen gneiss of Telemark (1035
+2
−3
Ma) possesses a geochemical signature transitional between high-K calc-alkaline and A-type.

The spatial association of tensional plutonism with the Kristiansand–Porsgrunn shear zone between Bamble and Telemark suggests that crustal thinning occurred along this axis between 1.19 and 1.13 Ga, preceding Sveconorwegian compressive shearing. The boundary between Rogaland–Vest Agder and Telemark, the Mandal line, probably separated, at 1.05 Ga, a mobile belt (Rogaland–Vest Agder) and a colder, more rigid terrane (Telemark). Major strike-slip shearing along the southern section of the Mandal line was probably associated with intrusion of an elongate pluton of the Feda suite and ductile amphibolite-facies deformation along a banded gneiss unit.
Geochemistry and tectonic significance of metabasic suites in the Góry Sowie Block, SW Poland
Authors: WINCHESTER J. A. , FLOYD P. A. , AWDANKIEWICZ M. , PIASECKI M. A. J. , AWDANKIEWICZ H. , GUNIA P. , GLIWICZ T.
Published: July 2007

Gneisses of the Góry Sowie Block, of probable Late Precambrian–Early Cambrian age, contain numerous small metabasite bodies which may have originated as dykes or sills. Many metabasites have phase assemblages and textures which show that they suVered early granulite-facies and later amphibolite- facies metamorphism, although some exhibit no evidence for the earlier event. Trace element geochemistry enabled four metabasite groups to be distinguished: (a) a dominant meta-tholeiite group (Sowie group) probably incorporating more than one set of intrusive rocks; (b) meta-tholeiites characterized by higher Nb/Y (high Nb/Y group); (c) Ti-poor metabasites (Myslêcin group) that exhibit strongly depleted HFSE; (d) alkali metabasalts (Wlóki group). Sowie group meta-tholeiites were also divided according to their dominant host lithology: granitoid gneiss, migmatitic paragneiss or gneiss containing relict granulite-facies rocks. Those in granitoid gneiss are compositionally restricted (although they fall within the same compositional range as other Sowie meta-tholeiites), and may comprise both early metabasites and a later intrusive group, postdating granite emplacement. Both the latter metabasites and the granitoid gneiss lack phase assemblages indicative of granulite facies metamorphism: this suggests that both were emplaced after the granulite-facies metamorphic event, but before or during amphibolite-facies metamorphism. An Early Ordovician emplacement age for syn-metamorphic granitoid gneiss shows that the Góry Sowie Block underwent an Ordovician (early Caledonian) metamorphic event, following metabasite emplacement, or was at this grade during the Ordovician. Nonetheless, the chemistry of all the metabasite groups and their geological setting is consistent with emplacement either through continental crust undergoing extension at a passive continental margin, or during the formation of an intracratonic basin before subsequent metamorphism recorded a local compressional event.
A Late Oligocene tectono-volcanic event in East Kalimantan and the implications for tectonics and sedimentation in Borneo
Authors: MOSS STEVE J. , CARTER ANDY , BAKER SIMON , HURFORD ANTHONY J.
Published: July 2007

New apatite fission-track data, K–Ar radiometric ages, and major and trace element geochem- istry from the northern part of the Kutai Basin, Borneo document a major regional tectono-volcanic episode. Apatite fission-track data from late Cretaceous sandstones indicate a period of rapid cooling in the late Oligocene. Cooling, initiated by a rapid temperature drop of over 40°C within
c.
2 Ma might have been caused by increased denudation associated with tectonic movements. Rapid cooling is also concomitant with a phase of igneous activity. New K–Ar radiometric ages of andesitic–dacitic high-level intrusive rocks and associated volcanic rocks give ages of 23–18 Ma, which correlate with the regionally extensive late Oligocene–Miocene Sintang Intrusives Suite. These andesitic–dacitic high-level intrusive rocks also have geochemical characteristics of arc-related rocks. The sedimentary response to this tectono-volcanic event is the eastwards shift of the western basin margin and the inception of deltaic deposition around the newly re-defined basin margins. Up to 9 km of sediment was deposited in the basin during Miocene delta progradation, covering thick sequences of Palaeogene bathyal shales, providing an excellent décollement surface for later inversion. Elsewhere in Borneo and adjacent areas of SE Asia, major events recorded in the late Oligocene to early Miocene include major thrust imbrication and volcanic arc activity, the cause of which is unclear: Possibilities include the collision of Australia with the Philippine Sea Plate, the counter-clockwise rotation of Borneo in the Neogene and the initial impingement of blocks of South China origin with northern Borneo–south Palawan.
Gene expression profiling reveals a regulatory role for RORα and RORγ in phase I and phase II metabolism
Authors: Kang Hong Soon , Angers Martin , Beak Ju Youn , Wu Xiying , Gimble Jeffrey M. , Wada Taira , Xie Wen , Collins Jennifer B. , Grissom Sherry F. , Jetten Anton M.
Published: July 2007

Retinoid-related orphan receptors alpha (RORα) and gamma (RORγ) are both expressed in liver; however, their physiological functions in this tissue have not yet been clearly defined. The RORα1 and RORγ1 isoforms, but not RORα4, show an oscillatory pattern of expression during circadian rhythm. To obtain insight into the physiological functions of ROR receptors in liver, we analyzed the gene expression profiles of livers from WT, RORα-deficient staggerer (sg) mice ( RORα sg/sg), RORγ−/−, and RORα sg/sg RORγ−/− double knockout (DKO) mice by microarray analysis. DKO mice were generated to study functional redundancy between RORα and RORγ. These analyses demonstrated that RORα and RORγ affect the expression of a number of genes. RORα and RORγ are particularly important in the regulation of genes encoding several phase I and phase II metabolic enzymes, including several 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases, cytochrome P450 enzymes, and sulfotransferases. In addition, our results indicate that RORα and RORγ each affect the expression of a specific set of genes but also exhibit functional redundancy. Our study shows that RORα and RORγ receptors influence the regulation of several metabolic pathways, including those involved in the metabolism of steroids, bile acids, and xenobiotics, suggesting that RORs are important in the control of metabolic homeostasis.
Symptom Resolution Does Not Predict Healing of Erosive Oesophagitis in Chinese
Authors: Cheung Ting Kin , Wong Wai Man , Wong Nina Y.H. , Chan Chi Kuen , Fung James , Yuen Man Fung , Chan Annie O.O. , Tong Teresa S.M. , Wong Benjamin C.Y.
Published: July 2007

Background: Previous studies suggested that Chinese have a milder spectrum of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease and a lower dose of proton pump inhibitors (PPI) is sufficient for the control of symptoms as compared with the Western population. Aims: To determine if 8 weeks of esomeprazole 20 mg daily would be adequate for both symptom resolution and oesophagitis healing in Chinese patients and the predictive factors for the response. Methods: 66 patients with oesophagitis were included. Oesophagitis severity was graded by Los Angeles (LA) classification. 61 patients underwent 24-hour ambulatory pH study at baseline. All were given esomeprazole 20 mg daily for 8 weeks. Symptom response and healing of oesophagitis was assessed at the end of the treatment period. Results: 75.8% of the patients had complete reflux symptom resolution but only 48% had complete healing of the oesophagitis at endoscopy after 8 weeks of treatment. LA classification grading at baseline endoscopy (p < 0.0001) and total number acid reflux episodes on 24-hour pH monitoring prior to treatment (p = 0.007) were both good predictors of oesophagitis healing but not for symptom resolution. Conclusions: Our results suggested that 8 weeks of lower dose PPI is not sufficient for oesophagitis healing. Symptom resolution with PPI does not predict oesophagitis healing in Chinese.
Antiglycation and Antioxidant Effect of Carnosine against Glucose Degradation Products in Peritoneal Mesothelial Cells
Authors: Alhamdani Mohamed-Saiel Saeed , Al-Kassir Abdul-Hameed A.-M. , Abbas Fawzi K.H. , Jaleel Nidham A. , Al-Taee Maha F.
Published: July 2007

Background/Aim:Toxicity with advanced glycation end products (AGEs) is a major problem in uremic patients. Treatment with peritoneal dialysis (PD) exacerbates AGE formation as a result of bioincompatibility of the conventional peritoneal dialysis fluid (PDF). The presence of glucose degradation products (GDPs) in PDF is the main cause of its bioincompatibility. Carnosine is an endogenous dipeptide with a powerful antiglycation/antioxidant activity. In an attempt to improve PDF biocompatibility, we evaluated the effect of carnosine in human peritoneal mesothelial cells (HPMC) incubated with PDF or GDPs in vitro. Methods: HPMC were incubated for short or prolonged time with PDF in the presence or absence of carnosine. Similarly, HPMC were incubated in the same condition but with a combination of GDPs. Following the incubation, cells were tested for their viability, protein carbonyl content and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Results: Results demonstrated a significant protective effect of carnosine to HPMC in both acute and chronic conditions with PDF or GDPs as judged by the enhancement of cell viability, preserved protein from modification and decreased ROS production. Conclusion: Carnosine enhanced HPMC viability against the toxic effect of GDPs probably through protection of cellular protein from modification and from ROS-mediated oxidative damage. The salutary effect of carnosine may render it a desirable candidate for improving PDF biocompatibility and reducing AGE complications in PD patients.
Effect of Reoxygenation on the Hypoxia-Induced Up-Regulation of Serine Protease Inhibitor PAI-1 in Head and Neck Cancer Cells
Authors: Sprague Lisa D. , Mengele Karin , Schilling Daniela , Geurts-Moespot Anneke , Sweep Fred C.G.J. , Stadler Peter , Schmitt Manfred , Molls Michael
Published: July 2007

In squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN), hypoxia is considered a crucial physiological modulator for malignant progression, wherebythe plasminogen activation system is involved in overlapping functions such as moulding of the extracellular matrix, cell proliferation and signal transduction. Little is known about the effects of reoxygenation on the plasminogen activation system in SCCHN cells. Three human SCCHN cell lines (BHY, CAL27, FaDu) and a non-transformed human fibroblast cell line (VH7) were exposed to hypoxic (<0.5% O2) conditions for up to 72 h and subsequently reoxygenated at normoxic conditions for 24 h. Urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) protein concentration and former protein activity were determined by ELISA and complex ELISA, respectively. Reoxygenation induced significant changes in cell-associated and secreted PAI-1 protein compared to the normoxic control. Significant increase in cell-associated and secreted uPA protein after reoxygenation was only observed for some of the cell lines. Determination of uPA-PAI-1 complex formation revealed the release of active protein into the cell supernatant. The beneficial role of reoxygenation during radiation therapy is widely accepted. However, reoxygenation does not seem to counteract the effects induced by hypoxia on the plasminogen activation system. Fatally irradiated reoxygenat- ed tumour cells might still produce sufficient amounts of ‘harmful’ protein and thus initiate a path for invasion and metastasis for surviving tumour cells.
Effect of Rosuvastatin on Outcomes in Chronic Haemodialysis Patients: Baseline Data from the AURORA Study
Authors: Fellström Bengt , Holdaas Hallvard , Jardine Alan G. , Rose Helen , Schmieder Roland , Wilpshaar Wim , Zannad Faiez
Published: July 2007

Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Aims: AURORA (A study to evaluate the Use of Rosuvastatin in subjects On Regular haemodialysis: an Assessment of survival and cardiovascular events) is the first large-scale international trial to assess the effects of statins on cardiovascular outcomes in patients with ESRD on chronic haemodialysis. Preliminary baseline data from the randomised population are presented. Methods: A total of 2,775 patients from 280 centres in 25 countries were randomised into the study. Patients aged 50–80 years on regular chronic haemodialysis for at least 3 months before screening were eligible for inclusion. They were randomised 1:1 to receive either rosuvastatin 10 mg or placebo daily and assessed throughout the study. Results: The mean age at baseline was 64 years. Most patients were male (62%) and 85% were white. The median time since commencing renal replacement was 32 months. Mean total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels were 4.53 mmol/l (175 mg/dl) and 2.57 mmol/l (99 mg/dl), respectively. Conclusion: Results from the AURORA trial will impact on the current guidelines and use of statins in this patient population.
Adenosine A2 Receptor Activation Attenuates Afferent Arteriolar Autoregulation During Adenosine Receptor Saturation in Rats
Authors: Feng Ming-Guo , Navar L. Gabriel
Published: July 2007

Adenosine is an important paracrine agent regulating renal hemodynamics via adenosine A1 and A2 receptors. To determine the interactions between adenosine A1 and A2 receptors and the possible role of adenosine as a modulator of afferent arteriolar autoregulatory responses, videomicroscopic measurements of afferent arteriolar dimensions were performed at different perfusion pressures (from 100 to 125 and 150 mm Hg) using the isolated-blood–perfused rat juxtamedullary nephron preparation. Single afferent arterioles were visualized and superfused with low or high concentrations of adenosine, either alone or with the adenosine A1 receptor antagonist 8-noradamantan-3-yl-1,3-dipropylxanthine (10 μmol/L) or the adenosine A2 receptor antagonist dimethyl-1-propargylxanthine (10 μmol/L). Adenosine (20 μmol/L) decreased afferent arteriolar diameter by −9.0±0.9%, and this effect was enhanced by dimethyl-1-propargylxanthine (10 μmol/L) to −16.1±1.2%. However, autoregulatory capability was maintained. Adenosine-induced vasoconstriction was prevented by 8-noradamantan-3-yl-1,3-dipropylxanthine (10 μmol/L) with diameter increasing by 9.6±1.2%. Adenosine receptor saturation with a high concentration of adenosine (120 μmol/L) or blocking A1 receptors with 8-noradamantan-3-yl-1,3-dipropylxanthine in the presence of adenosine resulted in marked vasodilation and marked impairment of autoregulatory responses to increases in perfusion pressure (−1.5±1.1% and −3.5±0.9%). However, afferent arteriolar autoregulatory responses to elevations in perfusion pressure were restored after blockade of A2 receptors alone or in combination with A1 receptor blockade. During treatment with dimethyl-1-propargylxanthine in the presence of adenosine receptor saturation (120 μmol/L), afferent arteriolar autoregulatory responses were intact (−16.5±1.6% and −26.4±2.1%). These results indicate that the interactions between adenosine A1 and A2 receptors exert important modulatory influences on afferent arteriolar tone and autoregulatory capability. Activation of A2 receptors abrogates the counteracting influences of A1 receptors leading to marked vasodilation and decreased afferent arteriolar autoregulatory efficiency.
Large Deflection of Viscoelastic Fiber Beams
Authors: Lee Kyungwoo
Published: July 2007

The large deflection of a viscoelastic beam under a combined load was investigated. As the problem involves geometrical nonlinearity, the derived governing equation is the type of nonlinear integro-differential equation that generally requires numerical solution to determine the large deflection. Numerical solution of large deflection of a viscoelastic tapered beam under a combined load consisting of a distributed triangular load and a concentrated vertical load at its free end was obtained by using Runge—Kutta method and is presented in a tabulated form.
A Neural Network System for Prediction of Thermal Resistance of Textile Fabrics
Authors: Bhattacharjee Debarati , Kothari ViJay K.
Published: July 2007

The objective of this paper is to report a study on the predictability of the steady-state and transient thermal properties of fabrics using a feed-forward, back-propagation artificial neural network system. A comparison was made with two different network architectures, one with two sequential networks working in tandem fed with a common input and another with a single network that gave two outputs. A three-layered network was used in both the cases. The networks were then subjected to a set of untrained inputs and the output thermal properties, namely thermal resistance and Qmax, were compared with the values obtained experimentally. The architecture with two networks working in tandem with a common set of inputs gave better results than the architecture with one set of inputs used to give two outputs.
Determining the Psychoacoustic Parameters That Affect Subjective Sensation of Fabric Sounds at Given Sound Pressures
Authors: Cho Jayoung , Cho Gilsoo
Published: July 2007

In fabric sound research, loudness has been proven to be the primary factor determining auditory sensation while other factors have not received enough attention in relation to their significance. This study aimed to analyze the secondary sound factors that differentiate sensations of fabric sounds at given sound pressure levels (SPL) corresponding to loudness. Objective sound data were obtained with psychoacoustic measurements such as Zwicker's parameters and auto correlation function parameters. These were compared with subjective ratings using seven pairs of descriptors: “hard vs. soft,” “quiet vs. loud,” “dull vs. sharp,” “obscure vs. clear,” “smooth vs. rough,” “low vs. high,” and “unpleasant vs. pleasant.” The fabric sounds having the same SPL varied in magnitude of perception for each sensation, thus revealing the effects of secondary sound factors. The parameters affecting subjective sensation are as follows: roughness ( z) and τ1, delay time of the first peak, decrease the sensations of “clarity,” “sharpness,” and “smoothness”; fluctuation strength ( z) promotes “smoothness” for 50 dB sounds; and τe, related to reverberation, increases “pleasantness” for 50 dB sounds.
Novel Process to Enhance the Dyeability of Cotton in Supercritical Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Fernandez Cid M.V. , Gerstner K.N. , van Spronsen J. , van der Kraan M. , Veugelers W.J.T. , Woerlee G.F. , Witkamp G.J.
Published: July 2007

A new simple method to improve the dyeability of cotton in supercritical carbon dioxide, which does not require any chemical modification of the cotton, is described here. The affinity of the cotton is enhanced through physical interactions between the pretreatment solvent and the cotton structure. Addition of cosolvents and dissolution of the dye greatly improved the coloration and fixation of the cotton. Experiments with different solvents as pretreatment and as cosolvents were performed. Methanol was found to be the best solvent for the pretreatment. Dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) as cosolvent and dye carrier provided the highest cotton coloration ( K/ S 15.3), but a fixation of only 2%. An increase in fixation to 62% was achieved when methanol was the cosolvent and the dye carrier.
Anisotropic Mechanical Behavior of Nonwoven Geotextiles Stressed by Uniaxial Tension
Authors: Gautier Karine Buet , Kocher Christiane Wagner , Drean Jean-Yves
Published: July 2007

The complex behavior of nonwoven structures can be studied by tensile tests. To understand the influence of mesoscopic phenomena on macroscopic behavior, the whole thermomechanical behavior was considered. During uniaxial tensile tests three parameters were measured: the load, the strain, and the temperature on the surface of the specimen. Mesoscopic phenomena corresponding to a rise of temperature are said to be dissipative. Two nonwoven structures were considered: a needlepunched and a thermo-bonded fabric. The needlepunched structure was quite anisotropic in terms of the strain field as well as the temperature. The dissipative phenomena involved were the anelastic extension of filaments and their failure. The thermo-bonded structure was more isotropic but was also a locked structure. The mechanical behavior was similar in the two directions and a rise of temperature was noticed during the whole test as a consequence of the failure of the bonded points, the anelastic extension, and the failure of filaments.
Analysis of Finger Motion in Evaluating the Hand of a Cloth using a Glove-type Measurement System
Authors: Lee Sumin , Kamijo Masayoshi , Honywood Michael , Nishimatsu Toyonori , Shimizu Yoshio
Published: July 2007

When people evaluate cloth by handling it, they use a special finger motion depending on the purpose of their evaluation. Such sensory evaluation includes resilience, roughness, flexibility and softness. We observed and compared the finger motions of both sensitive and non-sensitive users. We used a glove-type measurement system with pressure sensors to investigate the characteristics of finger motion while evaluating the hand of a cloth. The sensor provided data on the applied force used, as well as finger motion patterns. This allowed us to identify and analyze the differences between sensitive and non-sensitive users. The results show that the finger motion varied according to the user's ability to discriminate, with expert users finger motion being better suited to sensory evaluation.
The New Testament and Intercultural Exegesis in Africa*
Authors: Loba-Mkole Jean-Claude
Published: July 2007

This study reviews the rise and development of intercultural exegesis in Africa, especially of the New Testament. Its origins are traced to 1996, when Justin S. Ukpong published an article introducing and applying the method of inculturation biblical hermeneutic to Lk. 16.1-13. In 1998, Jean-Bosco Matand used the same method to interpret Acts 15.1-35 and Gal. 2.11-14. In 2001 and 2003, this method was adopted by Antoine C.N. Cilumba and Chris U. Manus who called it intercultural exegesis or intercultural hermeneutics. The former applied it to Jn 2.23—3.36 while the latter extended it to many texts including Mk 1.40-45. Jean-Claude Loba-Mkole developed this method further in 2005, using the term intercultural biblical exegesis as well as intercultural biblical mediation to interpret Lk. 22.69 and Acts 7.56.
Opening a Narrative Programme: Luke 4.16-30 and the BlackBagrNarrative
Authors: Baawobr Richard K.
Published: July 2007

Although African culture uses a lot of stories, African scholars rarely use the dynamics of popular stories in biblical interpretation. This article explores this possibility through a narrative analysis of the inaugural discourse of Jesus in Lk. 4.16-30 and an opening story from the bagr initiation rite of the Dagara of Ghana. Both stories are at the beginning of longer narratives and thus influence the rest of the narrative. They have an inbuilt appeal to discipleship and to acting in a certain way. The article identifies the key moments of each story and examines how each story shapes the wider narrative. Dialogue with the anthropologist, Alexis Tengan (2006), exegetes and other writers, allows the relevance and challenges of biblical narrative criticism in Africa and beyond to emerge.
Head-Waiter and Bridegroom of the Wedding at Cana: Structure and Meaning of John 2.1-12
Authors: Bulembat Jean-Bosco Matand
Published: July 2007

This study of the account of the wedding at Cana in Jn 2.1-12 was prompted by reactions to the manner in which Jesus addresses his mother as `Woman'. The literary structure of the pericope is analysed, and the roles of Jesus and his mother compared and contrasted with those of the bridegroom and head-waiter respectively. It is argued that Jesus is the true bridegroom and his mother the true head-waiter in this story, reflecting their status and roles in the divine dispensation. The connotations of `woman' need to be understood in their cultural context, and approximate those of `mother', the term of respect with which many African people address women in their societies.
Revisiting 1 Corinthians 11.27-34: Paul's Discussion of the Lord's Supper and African Meals
Authors: Adewuya J. Ayodeji
Published: July 2007

Most discussions on the Lord's Supper in 1 Corinthians have focused on individual behaviour rather than on the worshipping community as a whole. The result has been an emphasis on qualifications for participation and the need for self-examination by individual participants. But as this article tries to demonstrate, the main problem that Paul addresses in the passage is that of individualistic tendencies which have been manifested in various ways among the Corinthian community. As such, this article seeks to proffer an interpretation that seeks to recast the passage in its broader, corporate context by drawing on insights from particular aspects of African culture.
The Polder Model Reviewed: Dutch Corporatism 1965—2000
Authors: Woldendorp Jaap , Keman Hans
Published: July 2007

The Dutch Polder Model gained international reputation in the 1990s as an example of a successful and peaceful incomes management policy while coping with severe pressure. This article claims that the Polder Model has been overrated and so has its performance in terms of consensus (central agreements). The article discusses the emergence and working of this model in three parts. First, the behaviour of the relevant actors (government, trade unions and employers' organizations) during negotiations on incomes policy is examined. The government employed more often than not a corporatist strategy; however, the social partners did not comply and displayed competitive behaviour. Second, the outcome of the negotiations in terms of central agreements is analysed. The actual performance rate is low due to `tough' bargaining between social partners, and not all central agreements were reached through a corporatist government strategy. Finally, the dominance of social democracy in government after 1994 did not increase the number of central agreements. This research demonstrates that there is no typical or successful Dutch Polder Model. Rather, the behaviour of the actors and related performance are structured by macroeconomic circumstances and exogenous influences.
Trade Unions and Regional Government Working in Partnership? Emergent Lessons from Wales
Authors: Foster Deborah , Scott Peter
Published: July 2007

This article analyses relations between trade unions and the elected regional government in Wales as a hybrid form of `new social partnership' to manage change, using the case study of public service reform. Welsh unions have been able to achieve both improved consultative status and some bargaining aims, partly due to a stronger confluence of formal and informal political linkages than is evident on the wider national scene. Nevertheless, unions face longer-term resource and political threats to their ability to engage with regional government and to maintain their levels of influence within a more heterogeneous network of consultative stakeholders.
Union Decline and Renewal in Australia and Britain: Lessons from Closed Shops
Authors: de Turberville Simon
Published: July 2007

Declining union density in Australia and Britain has focused attention on the need for union reorganization. This article examines how the development of closed shops in the two countries influenced member exit rates and the internal union relations now affecting union renewal. Findings show that legislative support for the Australian closed shop tended to foster more union dependency on state and employers, union bureaucratization, less active stewards and more dissatisfied members than in Britain. The subsequent outlawing of the Australian closed shop and increasing employer hostility resulted in higher levels of density decline than in Britain. While the greater resilience of British density supports the case for developing strong workplace unionism, the relative bureaucratization of Australian unions within an increasingly antagonistic context, against the British situation of relatively indifferent employers and steward independence, limits the transferability of strategies designed to achieve union renewal.
From Conflict to Shared Development: Social Capital in a Tayloristic Environment
Authors: Hasle Peter , Møller Niels
Published: July 2007

The Danish slaughterhouse industry is known for its Tayloristic organization of work, poor industrial relations with frequent wild cat strikes, and a hazardous work environment. However, a few slaughterhouses show big differences in sickness absenteeism, labour turnover and frequency of strikes. These slaughterhouses were studied in order to understand the latitude for cooperation and improvement of the psychosocial work environment. The results revealed that three out of four slaughterhouses studied have moved from a culture based on conflicts and opposing interests to a culture based on mutual trust and respect, thus developing social capital. Developing trust between production managers and shop stewards was the key to the new situation. This happened without jeopardizing the traditional roles of management representatives and shop stewards. The study indicates that there are possibilities of improvement of working conditions under a Taylorized regime based on collaboration between local management and workers. An important factor explaining the results is the strong position of the workers and their unions in the slaughterhouse sector and the general acceptance of unions in the Danish society.
Perceptions of Justice in Connection with Individualized Pay Setting
Authors: Andersson-StrÅberg Teresia , Sverke Magnus , Hellgren Johnny
Published: July 2007

Individualized pay is typically assumed to enhance employee work motivation, but a precondition for such beneficial effects is that employees perceive the pay-setting process to be fair. The aim of this study is to contribute to the understanding of the nature, determinants and consequences of pay justice. Questionnaire data, obtained from a Swedish nationally representative sample of nurses, provided support for distinguishing between distributive, procedural, interpersonal and informational justice. The results also showed that perceptions of pay justice were predicted by both work climate variables and factors related to the pay-setting procedure, even after controlling for demographic characteristics. Although pay justice had only marginal effects on employee work attitudes and behaviour when demographics, work climate and pay-related factors had been taken into account, justice was found to be an important goal in itself, given that a prerequisite for the success of any pay system is that it is perceived as fair.
Symptom relapse following switch from Celexa to generic citalopram: an anxiety disorders case series
Authors: Van Ameringen Michael , Mancini Catherine , Patterson Beth , Bennett Mark
Published: July 2007

Generic agents do not require large clinical trials of safety and efficacy to enter the market, although they must demonstrate both pharmacological and bioequivalence to the brand name drug. BioequivaLence is attained when the extent of absorption of the generic falls within an FDA predefined range relative to the brand name drug. This potential variation in bioequivalence is not thought to be clinically meaningful, however, there are reports of a lack of therapeutic equivalence between some generic medications and the brand name. This study examines the potential risks posed by a switch from Celexa to generic citalopram. Twenty patients at an Anxiety Disorders Clinic who were unknowingly switched to generic citalopram, from Celexa (Lundbeck, Montreal, Quebec, Canada) and experienced a re-emergence of their anxiety symptoms or development of new adverse events are described in this case series report. The mean time for re-emergence of symptoms or development of adverse events was 3.4 ± 1.6 weeks (range 0.5—8 weeks). All patients reestabLished previous treatment response with a change back to Celexa in a mean time of 3.8 ± 2.6 weeks (range 0.7—12 weeks). Given these results, it is important for clinicians to be aware of the potentiaL for loss of treatment effect or symptom re-emergence posed by a switch to a generic agent. Randomized, doubLe blind, controlled investigations would likely provide useful information as current bioequivalence and pharmacological equivalence do not necessarily translate into clinical equivalence.
I Can Start That JME Manuscript Next Week, Can't I? The Task Characteristics Behind Why Faculty Procrastinate
Authors: Ackerman David S. , Gross Barbara L.
Published: July 2007

Procrastination can be a crucial factor inhibiting faculty success. Many important tasks, especially publications for promotion or tenure, are typically associated with deadlines that are far in the future. As a result, time management skills can make or break the success of new faculty. This study examines task characteristics of procrastination in faculty work. It extends work by Paden and Stell and Ackerman and Gross to the context of procrastination by faculty members. An online survey asked respondents to recall important projects they had recently completed. The results suggest that task characteristics influencing procrastination in starting and in completing tasks and projects are quite different. A wider variety of factors affected faculty member procrastination in completing tasks and projects than in starting them. These included departmental norms, competing deadline pressures, perceived difficulty of the task or project in question, and clarity about how to proceed.