bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transmission filtering of a waveguide coupled to a stub microresonator
Authors: Pennec Y. , Djafari-Rouhani B. , Akjouj A. , Vasseur J. O. , Dobrzynski L. , Vilcot J. P. , Beaugeois M. , Bouazaoui M. , Fikri R. , Vigneron J. P.
Published: September 2006

Using a finite difference time domain method, the authors study the electromagnetic transmission coefficient of a microwaveguide coupled to a lateral stub. It is shown that if the stub is covered with a thin metallic layer, the transmission spectrum contains several very narrow and deep depressions despite the small size of the resonator. The frequencies of the zeros of transmission are studied as a function of the geometrical parameters of the stub. The quality factor of the dips is increased when the waveguide is separated from the stub by a small air gap.
Expanded conformation of macromolecular chain in polyaniline with one-dimensional nanostructure prepared by interfacial polymerization
Authors: Li Wei , Zhu Meifang , Zhang Qinghua , Chen Dajun
Published: September 2006

In this letter, the authors report the formation mechanism of one-dimensional nanostructural polyaniline prepared by an interfacial polymerization. The transmission electron microscopy image of the conducting polymer exhibits a diameter of ∼80nm and a length of ∼1μm. The resistivity of the polymer at room temperature is 3.03±0.05Ωcm. The measurement of in situ UV-visible spectra showed an “expanded and partly doped” stage in the interfacial polymerization. It is hypothesized that the expanded molecular conformation performs a molecular template function on the formation of one-dimensional structure in the synthesis process.
Resonant Raman scattering with the E+ band in a dilute GaAs1−xNx alloy (x=0.1%)
Authors: Tan P. H. , Xu Z. Y. , Luo X. D. , Ge W. K. , Zhang Y. , Mascarenhas A. , Xin H. P. , Tu C. W.
Published: September 2006

Resonant Raman scattering has been applied to a dilute GaAs1−xNx alloy with 0.1% N. The Raman lines of GaAs and GaN related modes, their combinations, and multiple order replicas of GaAs-like longitudinal-optical modes have been observed with a lower N composition than those studied previously. All these Raman features are found to be strongly enhanced with excitations in resonance with a broad photoluminescence band that is associated with the so-called E+ transition. This study provides additional insights into how the GaAs host conduction band states are perturbed and thus the electron-phonon interaction is affected by the N doping.
Observation of a multilayer planar in-grown stacking fault in 4H-SiC p-i-n diodes
Authors: Caldwell Joshua D. , Klein P. B. , Twigg Mark E. , Stahlbush Robert E. , Glembocki Orest J. , Liu Kendrick X. , Hobart Karl D. , Kub Fritz
Published: September 2006

In-grown stacking faults (IGSFs) are planar defects that do not propagate under either an applied optical or electrical bias; however, their effect upon the electrical characteristics of diodes is not well understood. We present evidence for a multilayered IGSF and discuss its electrical and optical characteristics. These IGSFs, despite similar electroluminescence signatures, were observed to act as either a current barrier or as a short between the p+ and n+ layers, causing increases in the leakage current in p-i-n diodes. The difference in conduction behavior is attributed to the nucleation location of the IGSF within the diode drift region.
Comment on “MMM1D: A method for calculating electrostatic interactions in one-dimensional periodic geometries” [J. Chem. Phys. 123, 144103 (2005)]
Authors: Bródka Aleksander
Published: September 2006

This comment gives an alternative derivation of the MMM1D method reported by Arnold and Holm [J. Chem. Phys.123, 144103 (2005)]. Moreover, several errors in expressions presented in the cited paper are identified.
Diamond photonic band gap synthesis by umbrella holographic lithography
Authors: Toader Ovidiu , Chan Timothy Y. M. , John Sajeev
Published: September 2006

The authors demonstrate that optical interference lithography yields diamond photonic band gap (PBG) architectures with PBGs as large as 25% when the exposed photoresist is replicated with silicon. This process utilizes five linearly polarized beams propagating from the same half-space (umbrella configuration), a setup considerably simpler than the widely studied counterpropagating four-beam setup. Using the umbrella configuration, this diamond structure is also achieved by two or more exposures using fewer interfering laser beams.
Voltage tunable surface acoustic wave phase shifter using semiconducting/piezoelectric ZnO dual layers grown on r-Al2O3
Authors: Zhu Jun , Chen Ying , Saraf Gaurav , Emanetoglu Nuri W. , Lu Yicheng
Published: September 2006

A voltage tunable surface acoustic wave phase shifter is made of a ZnO based semiconducting/piezoelectric dual-layer structure on an r-Al2O3 substrate by using a hybrid growth technology. Piezoelectric and semiconducting ZnO layers are used for acoustic wave excitation and n-type conducting channel, while SiO2 serves as the gate insulator. The acoustic velocity of the device is tuned by changing the n-channel conductance with a dc bias. The in-plane anisotropy of the piezoelectric ZnO∕r-Al2O3 structure enables multimode operations. Sezawa and Love wave modes are used to get high effective coupling coefficients, which result in large phase shifts.
The Ca2+-binding Protein ALG-2 Is Recruited to Endoplasmic Reticulum Exit Sites by Sec31A and Stabilizes the Localization of Sec31A
Authors: Yamasaki Akinori , Tani Katsuko , Yamamoto Akitsugu , Kitamura Naomi , Komada Masayuki
Published: September 2006

The formation of transport vesicles that bud from endoplasmic reticulum (ER) exit sites is dependent on the COPII coat made up of three components: the small GTPase Sar1, the Sec23/24 complex, and the Sec13/31 complex. Here, we provide evidence that apoptosis-linked gene 2 (ALG-2), a Ca2+-binding protein of unknown function, regulates the COPII function at ER exit sites in mammalian cells. ALG-2 bound to the Pro-rich region of Sec31A, a ubiquitously expressed mammalian orthologue of yeast Sec31, in a Ca2+-dependent manner and colocalized with Sec31A at ER exit sites. A Ca2+binding-deficient ALG-2 mutant, which did not bind Sec31A, lost the ability to localize to ER exit sites. Overexpression of the Pro-rich region of Sec31A or RNA interference-mediated Sec31A depletion also abolished the ALG-2 localization at these sites. In contrast, depletion of ALG-2 substantially reduced the level of Sec31A associated with the membrane at ER exit sites. Finally, treatment with a cell-permeable Ca2+chelator caused the mislocalization of ALG-2, which was accompanied by a reduced level of Sec31A at ER exit sites. We conclude that ALG-2 is recruited to ER exit sites via Ca2+-dependent interaction with Sec31A and in turn stabilizes the localization of Sec31A at these sites.
Field statistics in nonlinear composites. I. Theory
Authors: Idiart Martín I , Castañeda Pedro Ponte
Published: September 2006

This work presents a means for extracting the statistics of the local fields in nonlinear composites from the effective potential of suitably perturbed composites. The idea is to introduce a parameter in the local potentials, generally a tensor, such that differentiation of the corresponding effective potential with respect to the parameter yields the volume average of the desired quantity. In particular, this provides a generalization to the nonlinear case of well-known formulas in the context of linear composites, which express phase averages and second moments of the local fields in terms of derivatives of the effective potential. Such expressions are useful since they allow the generation of estimates for the field statistics in nonlinear composites, directly from homogenization estimates for appropriately defined effective potentials. Here, use is made of these expressions in the context of the ‘variational’, ‘tangent second-order’ and ‘second-order’ homogenization methods, to obtain rigorous estimates for the first and second moments of the fields in nonlinear composites. While the variational estimates for these quantities are found to be identical to those proposed in previous works, the tangent second-order and second-order estimates are found be different. In particular, the new estimates for the first moments given in this work are found to be entirely consistent with the corresponding estimates for the macroscopic behaviour. Sample results for two-phase, power-law composites are provided in part II of this work.
Phylogenomics of the genusMus(Rodentia; Muridae): extensive genome repatterning is not restricted to the house mouse
Authors: Veyrunes Frederic , Dobigny Gauthier , Yang Fengtang , O'Brien Patricia C.M , Catalan Josette , Robinson Terence J , Britton-Davidian Janice
Published: September 2006

The house mouse (Mus musculus) is universally adopted as the mammalian laboratory model, and it is involved in most studies of large-scale comparative genomics. Paradoxically, this taxon is rarely the index species for evolutionary analyses of genome architecture owing to its highly rearranged karyotype. To unravel the origin and nature of this extensive repatterning genome, we performed a multidirectional chromosome painting study of representative species within the genusMus. However, the latter includes four extant subgenera (Mus,Coelomys,NannomysandPyromys) between which the phylogenetic relationships remain elusive despite the numerous molecular studies. Comparative genomic maps were established using chromosome-specific painting probes of the laboratory mouse andNannomys minutoides. Hence, by integrating closely related species withinMus, this study allowed us to: (i) unambiguously resolve for the first time the long-standing controversial phylogeny, (ii) trace the evolution of genome organization in the house mouse, (iii) track rearrangements that necessitated new centromere locations, i.e. formation of neocentromere or reactivation of latent centromeres, (iv) reveal an extremely high rate of karyotypic evolution, with a 10- to 30-fold acceleration which was coincidental with subgeneric cladogenesis and (v) highlight genomic areas of interest for high-resolution studies on neocentromere formation and synteny breakpoints.
The C2 domain protein BAP1 negatively regulates defense responses in Arabidopsis
Authors: Yang Huijun , Li Yongqing , Hua Jian
Published: September 2006

The Arabidopsis BAP1 gene encodes a small protein with a C2‐like domain. Here we show that the BAP1 protein is capable of binding to phospholipids in a calcium‐dependent manner and is associated with membranes in vivo. We identify multiple roles of BAP1 in negatively regulating defense responses and cell death in Arabidopsis thaliana. The loss of BAP1 function confers an enhanced disease resistance to virulent bacterial and oomycete pathogens. The enhanced resistance is mediated by salicylic acid, PAD4 and a disease resistance gene SNC1. BAP1 is also involved in the control of cell death, which is suggested by an altered hypersensitive response to an avirulent bacterial pathogen in the bap1 loss‐of‐function mutant. BAP1 overexpression leads to an enhanced susceptibility to a virulent oomycete, suggesting a role for BAP1 in basal defense response. Furthermore, the BAP1 protein probably functions together with an evolutionarily conserved C2 domain protein BON1/CPN1 to negatively regulate defense responses in plants.
Endogenous isoflavones are essential for the establishment of symbiosis between soybean and Bradyrhizobium japonicum
Authors: Subramanian Senthil , Stacey Gary , Yu Oliver
Published: September 2006

Legume iso/flavonoids have been implicated in the nodulation process, but questions remain as to their specific role(s), and no unequivocal evidence exists showing that these compounds are essential for nodulation. Two hypotheses suggest that the primary role of iso/flavonoids is their ability to induce rhizobial nod gene expression and/or their ability to modulate internal root auxin concentrations. The present work provides direct, genetic evidence that isoflavones are essential for nodulation of soybean roots because of their ability to induce the nodulation genes of Bradyrhizobium japonicum. Expression of isoflavone synthase (IFS), a key enzyme in the biosynthesis of isoflavones, is specifically induced by B. japonicum. When IFS was silenced using RNA interference in soybean hairy root composite plants, these plants had severely reduced nodulation. Surprisingly, pre‐treatment of B. japonicum or exogenous application to the root system of either of the major soybean isoflavones, daidzein or genistein, failed to restore normal nodulation. Silencing of chalcone reductase led to very low levels of daidzein and increased levels of genistein, but did not affect nodulation, suggesting that the endogenous production of genistein was sufficient to support nodulation. Consistent with a role for isoflavones as endogenous regulators of auxin transport in soybean roots, silencing of IFS resulted in altered auxin‐inducible gene expression and auxin transport. However, use of a genistein‐hypersensitive B. japonicum strain or purified B. japonicum Nod signals rescued normal nodulation in IFS‐silenced roots, indicating that the ability of isoflavones to modulate auxin transport is not essential to nodulation.
Risk factors for rising creatinine in renal allografts with 1 and 3 yr survival
Authors: Paraskevas Steven , Kandaswamy Raja , Humar Abhinav , Gillingham Kristen J. , Gruessner Rainer W. , Payne William D. , Najarian John S. , Sutherland David E.R. , Matas Arthur J.
Published: September 2006

Abstract: Background: Determining factors associated with negative slope of inverse creatinine vs. time (1/Cr vs. t) may help prevent a decline in renal allograft function.

Methods: A total of 1389 adult recipients of primary renal transplants were divided into quartiles based on the slope of 1/Cr vs. t calculated from 6 and 12 months post transplant. A multivariate analysis of risk factors for being in the worst vs. best quartile employed these variables: donor source, HLA mismatch, recipient age, donor age, panel‐reactive antibody (PRA), acute rejection (AR), 3‐month cyclosporin A (CsA) level, 1‐yr CsA level and acute tubular necrosis. Two separate analyses compared risk factors in patients with 1 and 3 yr survival, respectively.

Results: In recipients with ≥1 yr graft survival, high PRA and AR were associated with negative slopes of 1/Cr vs. t. For those with ≥3 yr graft survival, both AR and 3‐month CsA level >150 ng/mL were significant risk factors, using both 6‐ and 12‐month slopes. Stratification of AR showed 1 AR episode ≥6 months and multiple AR episodes carried significant risk for negative slopes.

Conclusion: Optimization of allograft function invokes a conundrum between the needs to avoid both AR and high early CsA levels. We support a policy of carefully balancing these two risks.
Intraoperative hypotension and prolonged operative time as risk factors for slow graft function in kidney transplant recipients
Authors: Sandid Mohamad S. , Assi Maha A. , Hall Sandra
Published: September 2006

Abstract: Background: Slow graft function (SGF) is an immediate post‐operative complication of cadaveric kidney transplantation pre‐disposing to acute rejection (AR) and lower graft survival. The objective of this study was to test whether intraoperative hypotension and/or prolonged operative time are risk factors for SGF in patients post‐cadaveric kidney transplant.

Methods: This was a single center retrospective case–control study of patients post‐cadaveric kidney transplant performed at the University of Kansas Medical Center (KUMC) between January 2002 and February 2005. Data were retrieved from the United Network of Organ Sharing (UNOS) database.

Results: One hundred and sixty patients underwent cadaveric kidney transplant. Intraoperative measurements including blood pressure and operative time were available in 94 patients of which 57 had immediate graft function (IGF) and 37 had SGF (defined as decline in serum creatinine (Cr) of <50% by day 3). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, intraoperative hypotension and prolonged operative time were additive independent risk factors for SGF. For every 5 mmHg increment decrease in blood pressure, the odds ratio (OR) for SGF was 1.28 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.08–1.53) for systolic blood pressure (SBP), 1.38 (CI: 1.06–1.79) for diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and 1.51 (CI: 1.15–1.99) for mean arterial pressure (MAP). For every 30 min increase in operative time, the OR for SGF was 1.35 (CI: 1.07–1.71).

Conclusion: Intraoperative hypotension and prolonged operative time are independent risk factors for SGF in patients post‐cadaveric kidney transplant.
Mi‐2 chromatin remodeling factor functions in sensory organ development through proneural gene repression in Drosophila
Authors: Yamasaki Yasutoyo , Nishida Yasuyoshi
Published: September 2006

Mi‐2, the central component of the nucleosome remodeling and histone deacetylation (NuRD) complex, is known as an SNF2‐type ATP‐dependent nucleosome remodeling factor. No morphological mutant phenotype of Drosophila Mi‐2 (dMi‐2) had been reported previously; however, we found that rare escapers develop into adult flies showing an extra bristle phenotype. The dMi‐2 enhanced the phenotype of acHw49c, which is a dominant gain‐of‐function allele of achaete (ac) and produces extra bristles. Consistent with these observations, the ac‐expressing proneural clusters were expanded, and extra sensory organ precursors (SOP) were formed in the dMi‐2 mutant wing discs. Immunostaining of polytene chromosomes showed that dMi‐2 binds to the ac locus, and dMi‐2 and acetylated hisotones distribute on polytene chromosomes in a mutually exclusive manner. The chromatin immunoprecipitation assay of the wing imaginal disc also demonstrated a binding of dMi‐2 on the ac locus. These results suggest that the Drosophila Mi‐2/NuRD complex functions in neuronal differentiation through the repression of proneural gene expression by chromatin remodeling and histone deacetylation.
Genomic organization, alternative splicing, and multiple regulatory regions of the zebrafishfgf8gene
Authors: Inoue Fumitaka , Nagayoshi Saori , Ota Satoshi , Islam Md. Ekramul , Tonou‐Fujimori Noriko , Odaira Yuko , Kawakami Koichi , Yamasu Kyo
Published: September 2006

Fgf8 is among the members of the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) family that play pivotal roles in vertebrate development. In the present study, the genomic DNA of the zebrafishfgf8gene was cloned to elucidate the regulatory mechanism behind the temporally and spatially restricted expression of the gene in vertebrate embryos. Structural analysis revealed that the exon–intron organization offgf8is highly conserved during vertebrate evolution, from teleosts to mammals. Close inspection of the genomic sequence and reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction analysis revealed that zebrafishfgf8encodes two splicing variants, corresponding to Fgf8a and Fgf8b, among the four to seven splicing variants known in mammals. Misexpression of the two variants in zebrafish embryos following mRNA injection showed that both variants have dorsalizing activities on zebrafish embryos, with Fgf8b being more potent. Reporter gene analysis of the transcriptional regulation of zebrafishfgf8suggested that its complicated expression pattern, which is considered essential for its multiple roles in development, is mediated by combinations of different regulatory regions in the upstream and downstream regions of the gene. Furthermore, comparison of the genomic sequence offgf8among different vertebrate species suggests that this regulatory mechanism is conserved during vertebrate evolution.
Quality assurance in online education: The Universitas 21 Global approach
Authors: Chua Alton , Lam Wing
Published: September 2006

Despite the proliferation of online education, concerns remain about the quality of online programmes. Quality assurance (QA) has become a prominent issue, not only for educational institutions and accreditors, but also for students and employers alike. This paper describes some of the rather unique QA processes used at Universitas 21 Global (U21G), one of the new breed of online academic institutions, and its relation to U21pedagogica, the independent agency that approves U21G’s programmes. These distinctive QA processes relate to five main areas, namely, content authoring, courseware development, adjunct faculty recruitment, pedagogy and delivery. The authors believe that these QA processes have contributed significantly to student satisfaction and student retention at U21G. Furthermore, these QA processes can also be adapted to suit more traditional ‘brick‐and‐mortar’ universities offering online programmes.
Policing By Command: Enhancing Law Enforcement Capacity Through Coercion
Authors: AYLING JULIE , GRABOSKY PETER
Published: September 2006

This article addresses the numerous ways command or coercion is used by the state to enhance law enforcement, ways that involve creative interactions with both the targets of law enforcement and third parties. Coercive measures encompass both mandatory reporting and mandatory action. Examples are given and the benefits of using coercion in such circumstances discussed. However, coercion may also have unintended consequences and impose unreasonable costs. With these effects in mind, the authors suggest a set of guidelines for evaluating the appropriateness of coercive measures.
From Manslaughter to Preventable Accident: Shaping Corporate Criminal Liability
Authors: BITTLE STEVEN , SNIDER LAUREEN
Published: September 2006

This article looks at the assumptions, agendas, and relations of power that shaped Bill C‐45, revisions to the Criminal Code of Canada aimed at strengthening corporate criminal liability. The Bill, passed in fall 2003, originated in response to the deaths of twenty‐six workers at the Westray mine in 1993, a disaster caused by unsafe and illegal working conditions. Through an examination of Parliamentary Committee hearings, this article explores how conceptions of corporate criminal liability were shaped and modified, and links this to the implications and potential of Bill C‐45 to hold corporations to account. The authors argue that conservative conceptualizations of corporate liability limited the reform options that were considered by the Committee, and that the resulting legislation will do little to challenge the structural conditions that underlie culpable workplace injury and death.
Blind or Biased? Justitia's Susceptibility to Anchoring Effects in the Courtroom Based on Given Numerical Representations
Authors: ENGLICH BIRTE
Published: September 2006

This article presents an integrative review of recent research on anchoring effects in the courtroom as one example for the strong impact of representation norms on sentencing decisions. Anchoring effects – the assimilation of numerical judgments to a given standard – have been demonstrated in many judgmental domains. Even sentencing decisions are subject to anchoring effects. In court proceedings this gives disproportionate weight to the prosecutor, whose sentencing demand serves as an anchor. The prosecution's sentencing demand even affects defense attorneys, who assimilate their own sentencing recommendation to it. This influence seems to remain outside of defense attorneys’ awareness. Expertise does not attenuate this bias. Accordingly, defendants might be better off if defense attorneys could make their final case prior to the prosecutor's case.
The effects of maternal social phobia on mother–infant interactions and infant social responsiveness
Authors: Murray Lynne , Cooper Peter , Creswell Cathy , Schofield Elizabeth , Sack Caroline
Published: September 2006

Background: Social phobia aggregates in families. The genetic contribution to intergenerational transmission is modest, and parenting is considered important. Research on the effects of social phobia on parenting has been subject to problems of small sample size, heterogeneity of samples and lack of specificity of observational frameworks. We addressed these problems in the current study.

Methods: We assessed mothers with social phobia (N = 84) and control mothers (N = 89) at 10 weeks in face‐to‐face interactions with their infants, and during a social challenge, namely, engaging with a stranger. We also assessed mothers with generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) (N = 50). We examined the contribution to infant social responsiveness of early infant characteristics (neonatal irritability), as well as maternal behaviour.

Results: Mothers with social phobia were no less sensitive to their infants during face‐to‐face interactions than control mothers, but when interacting with the stranger they appeared more anxious, engaged less with the stranger themselves, and were less encouraging of the infant's interaction with the stranger; infants of index mothers also showed reduced social responsiveness to the stranger. These differences did not apply to mothers with GAD and their infants. Regression analyses showed that the reduction in social responsiveness in infants of mothers with social phobia was predicted by neonatal irritability and the degree to which the mother encouraged the infant to interact with the stranger.

Conclusions: Mothers with social phobia show specific parenting difficulties, and their infants show early signs of reduced social responsiveness that are related to both individual infant differences and a lack of maternal encouragement to engage in social interactions.
Successes and failures of the mirroring principle: the case of angling and beauty websites
Authors: Moss Gloria A. , Gunn Rod , Kubacki Krzysztof
Published: September 2006

This article examines whether industries with differing target markets in terms of their customers’ gender reflect the design preferences of their target markets in line with the mirroring principle. An analysis was conducted of websites of industries concentrated alternatively on male and female consumers, namely the angling and beauty salon industries. In each case, a random selection of 60 angling and beauty websites were rated using rating characteristics identified as typical of the male and female web‐design production aesthetic. The fact that each gender has a marked preference for the production aesthetic of its own gender, and that the websites of industries focused on, alternatively, male and female consumers, are produced using a predominantly male design production aesthetic, shows the current failure in certain industries to deliver the empathy or mirroring principle. The male domination of the information technology and web‐design industries, together with the earlier rooting of research on web aesthetics in the universalist, as against the interactionist perspective, are adduced as possible factors in this failure. This failure, if representative of other industries, could be leading to the suboptimal use of web design for markets not dominated by men, and may be one of the factors leading women to be less frequent users of the web than men.
Consumers’ perspectives on online banking services
Authors: Mavri Maria , Ioannou George
Published: September 2006

The forces of economic change, coupled with advancements in technology, prompt banks to rethink their use of traditional branches and begin forming new partnerships to deliver financial services. The Internet seems to be the new delivery channel in the banking sector. Factors such as the security of personal data or the reliability of a financial institution have been identified by previous studies as the determinants of electronic‐banking adoption. In this paper, a series of new factors, such as the difficulties of using the Internet, are shown to play a crucial role in the consumer’s attitude – adoption or rejection – of this new alternative channel. We examine consumer behaviour by modelling multivariate categorical response data using a generalized linear model. Our choice model is based on the assumption that an individual’s decision to use electronic services depends on a number of explanatory variables, and we try to estimate the factors that affect an individual’s decision to use online services.
Effect of caregiver feeding behaviours on child nutritional status in rural Ghana
Authors: Nti Christina A. , Lartey Anna
Published: September 2006

A six‐month observational study involving 100 mothers with infants between the ages of 6 and 12 months was conducted in the Manya Krobo district of Ghana. The objective was to assess the role of caregiver feeding behaviours on child nutritional status using a modified positive deviance approach. Each child was in the study for 6 months, during which they were observed at home once a month. On each visit, data were collected on the child anthropometry, child meal frequency, diet diversity, responsiveness of caregiver during feeding, child’s appetite and feeding atmosphere as well as caregiver hygienic practices related to feeding. Using weight‐for‐age (WAZ) and length‐for‐age (LAZ) scores, the children were classified as positive or negative deviant children. The study revealed significant differences between the two groups of children in terms of caregiver feeding behaviours. Positive deviant children had significantly higher meal frequencies (3.1 ± 0.4 vs. 2.4 ± 0.6, P = 0.001), diet diversity scores (6.3 ± 0.6 vs. 3.7 ± 1.1, P = 0.001), were fed under better hygienic conditions (7.2 ± 0.9 vs. 4.2 ± 1.1, P = 0.001) and were much more interested in food during feeding (85.8% vs. 59.3%). Caregiver responsiveness during feeding was also significantly higher among the positive deviant group (6.5 ± 0.8 vs. 4.5 ± 0.9, P = 0.001). This study has demonstrated the tremendous effect of caregiver feeding behaviours on child nutritional outcomes and provides a scientific basis for introducing care during feeding as a component of intervention to improve child nutritional status in Ghana.
Young child feeding practices and child nutritional status in rural Ghana
Authors: Nti Christina A. , Lartey Anna
Published: September 2006

A study was conducted in the Manya Krobo district of Ghana with the objective of studying young child feeding practices and child nutrition situation in the area. The study was a cross‐sectional survey involving 400 mothers with young children between 0 and 18 months. A combination of methods, including structured interviews using questionnaire, dietary assessment and anthropometry, was used to collect data for the study. The data obtained were analysed using spss version 10 in Windows. Means and standard deviations were generated for continuous variables and frequency distribution for categorical variables. The results revealed that although breastfeeding rates were high (97%), complementary feeding practices were less than ideal with as many as 14% of the children being introduced to complementary foods below the age of 3 months. The nutritional quality of complementary foods were poor and the prevalence of stunting among the children was high (20%). For adequate complementary feeding and improved child nutrition in this population, nutrition education intervention programmes aimed at improving nutrient intake among young children, through improved diet diversity and increased use of local foods rich in iron and other nutrients, need to be undertaken.
Oxidative Stress as the Leading Cause of Acute Myocardial Infarction in Diabetics
Authors: Filippo Clara Di , Cuzzocrea Salvatore , Rossi Francesco , Marfella Raffaele , D'Amico Michele
Published: September 2006

The risk factors, such as hypertension and metabolic syndrome, tend to promote heart pathology. These risk factors can aggravate concomitant heart insults as well. Diabetes mellitus represents one of the most important risk factors for the development of heart pathology. By itself it represents a source of vascular and heart dysfunction through formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and can compromise the recovery from cardiovascular diseases. This review focuses on the evidence that cellular oxidative stress is the leading cause of the worst outcome of myocardial infarction (MI) in diabetics. Hyperglycemia is viewed in this article as the primary mediator of a cascade of heart damaging events, starting from ROS formation and leading to myocardial ischemia, inflammation and death of myocytes. This article also provides insights into why diverse therapeutic interventions, which have in common the ability to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, can impede or delay the onset of complications of myocardial infarction in diabetic patients.
Nursing Home Staff Delivery of Oral Liquid Nutritional Supplements to Residents at Risk for Unintentional Weight Loss
Authors: Simmons Sandra F. , Patel Ashish V.
Published: September 2006

OBJECTIVES: To describe nursing home (NH) staff delivery of oral liquid nutritional supplements to residents with an order to receive supplementation.

DESIGN: Descriptive.

SETTING: Six skilled NHs.

PARTICIPANTS: One hundred thirty‐two long‐stay residents.

MEASUREMENTS: Research staff conducted direct observations for 2 days during and between meals and documented NH staff delivery of supplements, amount consumed (fluid ounces), and amount of assistance (minutes) provided by staff to encourage consumption.

RESULTS: Eighty‐eight percent had an order to receive a supplement one to three times daily (mode=3); 12% had an order to receive a supplement four to six times daily. Fewer than 10% received the supplement consistent with their orders during the 2 observation days. On average, NH staff provided a supplement less than once per participant per day during or between meals. When a supplement was provided, residents consumed an average±standard deviation of 4.91±2.19 fluid ounces during meals with 6.16±7.46 minutes of staff assistance and 3.98±2.60 fluid ounces between meals with less than 1 minute of staff assistance. Participants with orders that specified time of delivery received the supplement at a significantly higher frequency between meals.

CONCLUSION: Oral liquid nutritional supplements are not provided consistent with orders in NH practice. Staff spends little time promoting supplement consumption during or between meals. The specificity of the order related to time of delivery may influence when and how often supplements are provided to residents.
The Economics of Insurance Intermediaries
Authors: Cummins J. David , Doherty Neil A.
Published: September 2006

Abstract

This article analyzes the economic functions of independent insurance intermediaries (brokers and independent agents), focusing on the commercial property–casualty insurance market. The article investigates the functions performed by intermediaries, the competitiveness of the market, the compensation arrangements for intermediaries, and the process by which policies are placed with insurers. Insurance intermediaries are essentially market makers who match the insurance needs of policyholders with insurers who have the capability of meeting those needs. Intermediary compensation comprises premium‐based commissions, expressed as a percentage of the premium paid, and contingent commissions based on the profitability, persistency, and/or volume of the business placed with the insurer. Empirical evidence is provided that premium‐based and contingent commissions are passed on to policyholders in the premium. However, contingent commissions can enhance competitive bidding by aligning the insurer's and the intermediary's interests. This alignment of interests gives insurers more confidence in the selection of risks and thus helps to break the “winner's curse” and encourages insurers to bid more aggressively. Independent intermediaries also help markets operate more efficiently by reducing the information asymmetries between insurers and buyers that can cause adverse selection.
A Comparison of Neural Network, Statistical Methods, and Variable Choice for Life Insurers' Financial Distress Prediction
Authors: Brockett Patrick L. , Golden Linda L. , Jang Jaeho , Yang Chuanhou
Published: September 2006

Abstract

This study examines the effect of the statistical/mathematical model selected and the variable set considered on the ability to identify financially troubled life insurers. Models considered are two artificial neural network methods (back‐propagation and learning vector quantization (LVQ)) and two more standard statistical methods (multiple discriminant analysis and logistic regression analysis). The variable sets considered are the insurance regulatory information system (IRIS) variables, the financial analysis solvency tracking (FAST) variables, and Texas early warning information system (EWIS) variables, and a data set consisting of twenty‐two variables selected by us in conjunction with the research staff at TDI and a review of the insolvency prediction literature. The results show that the back‐propagation (BP) and LVQ outperform the traditional statistical approaches for all four variable sets with a consistent superiority across the two different evaluation criteria (total misclassification cost and resubstitution risk criteria), and that the twenty‐two variables and the Texas EWIS variable sets are more efficient than the IRIS and the FAST variable sets for identification of financially troubled life insurers in most comparisons.
Implementing Change on the Front Lines: A Management Case Study of West Feliciana Parish Hospital
Authors: Chustz Mark H. , Larson James S.
Published: September 2006

In the policy implementation field, theorists are challenged to develop stepwise frameworks that facilitate the implementation of public policy. This case studies the implementation of a Medicare charity care policy in a small rural hospital using the top‐down implementation framework. It offers an overview of top‐down implementation theory and a discussion of top‐down research findings as they relate to the real implementation experiences of hospital administrators. The case presents six recommendations for the effective implementation of a new policy on the front lines.
The O*Net Jobs Classification System: A Primer for Family Researchers
Authors: Crouter Ann C. , Lanza Stephanie T. , Pirretti Amy , Goodman W. Benjamin , Neebe Eloise ,   The Family Life Project Key Investigators
Published: September 2006

Abstract: We introduce family researchers to the Occupational Information Network, or O*Net, an electronic database on the work characteristics of over 950 occupations. The paper here is a practical primer that covers data collection, selecting occupational characteristics, coding occupations, scale creation, and construct validity, with empirical illustrations from the Family Life Project, a study of almost 1,300 families with infants born in 6 low‐income, nonmetro counties in North Carolina and Pennsylvania. We factor analyzed parents’ occupations on 35 O*Net characteristics and identified 5 factors: occupational self‐direction, physical hazards, physical activity, care work, and automation/repetition, variables that supplement data collected from parents directly. Applied researchers can use the O*Net to expand their knowledge of participants’ work circumstances with objective data.
Sliding Versus Deciding: Inertia and the Premarital Cohabitation Effect*
Authors: Stanley Scott M. , Rhoades Galena Kline , Markman Howard J.
Published: September 2006

Abstract: Premarital cohabitation has consistently been found to be associated with increased risk for divorce and marital distress in the United States. Two explanations for this “cohabitation effect” are discussed: selection and experience. We present an empirically based view of how the experience of cohabitation may increase risk for relationship distress or divorce for some people beyond what is accounted for by selection. Specifically, using a commitment framework, we suggest that some couples who otherwise would not have married end up married because of the inertia of cohabitation. We discuss practice implications for relationship transitions that are characterized more by sliding than deciding, especially where a transition such as cohabitation increases inertia to remain in a relationship regardless of quality or fit.
The Universe, Too Quickly Toured
Authors: Carroll Sean M.
Published: September 2006

The Quantum Zoo
. A Tourist's Guide to the Neverending Universe.
Marcus Chown
. Joseph Henry Press (National Academies Press), Washington, DC, 2006. 212 pp. $24.95, C$27.95. ISBN 0-309-09622-7.

Writing for a broad, popular audience, Chown offers an entertaining description of two key strands of modern physics: quantum mechanics and relativity.
Measurement of the Entanglement of Two Superconducting Qubits via State Tomography
Authors: Steffen Matthias , Ansmann M. , Bialczak Radoslaw C. , Katz N. , Lucero Erik , McDermott R. , Neeley Matthew , Weig E. M. , Cleland A. N. , Martinis John M.
Published: September 2006

Demonstration of quantum entanglement, a key resource in quantum computation arising from a nonclassical correlation of states, requires complete measurement of all states in varying bases. By using simultaneous measurement and state tomography, we demonstrated entanglement between two solid-state qubits. Single qubit operations and capacitive coupling between two super-conducting phase qubits were used to generate a Bell-type state. Full two-qubit tomography yielded a density matrix showing an entangled state with fidelity up to 87%. Our results demonstrate a high degree of unitary control of the system, indicating that larger implementations are within reach.
Vaccines with the MF59 Adjuvant Do Not Stimulate Antibody Responses against Squalene
Authors: Del Giudice Giuseppe , Fragapane Elena , Bugarini Roberto , Hora Maninder , Henriksson Thomas , Palla Emanuela , O'Hagan Derek , Donnelly John , Rappuoli Rino , Podda Audino
Published: September 2006

Squalene is a naturally occurring oil which has been used in the development of vaccine adjuvants, such as the oil-in-water emulsion MF59. In past years, by use of noncontrolled and nonvalidated assays, a claim was made that antisqualene antibodies were detectable in the sera of individuals with the so-called Gulf War syndrome. Using a validated enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for the quantitation of immunoglobulin G (IgG) and IgM antibodies against squalene, we demonstrated that antisqualene antibodies are frequently detectable at very low titers in the sera of subjects who were never immunized with vaccines containing squalene. More importantly, vaccination with a subunit influenza vaccine with the MF59 adjuvant neither induced antisqualene antibodies nor enhanced preexisting antisqualene antibody titers. In conclusion, antisqualene antibodies are not increased by immunization with vaccines with the MF59 adjuvant. These data extend the safety profile of the MF59 emulsion adjuvant.
Mapping the Pathways to StaphylococcalPathogenesis by Comparative Secretomics
Authors: Sibbald M. J. J.B. , Ziebandt A. K. , Engelmann S. , Hecker M. , de Jong A. , Harmsen H. J. M. , Raangs G. C. , Stokroos I. , Arends J. P. , Dubois J. Y. F. , van Dijl J. M.
Published: September 2006

The gram-positive bacterium
Staphylococcus aureus
is a
frequent component of the human microbial flora that can turn into a
dangerous pathogen. As such, this organism is capable of infecting
almost every tissue and organ system in the human body. It does so by
actively exporting a variety of virulence factors to the cell surface
and extracellular milieu. Upon reaching their respective destinations,
these virulence factors have pivotal roles in the colonization and
subversion of the human host. It is therefore of major importance to
obtain a clear understanding of the protein transport pathways that are
active in
S. aureus
. The present review aims to provide a
state-of-the-art roadmap of staphylococcal secretomes, which include
both protein transport pathways and the extracytoplasmic proteins of
these organisms. Specifically, an overview is presented of the exported
virulence factors, pathways for protein transport, signals for cellular
protein retention or secretion, and the exoproteomes of different
S. aureus
isolates. The focus is on
S. aureus
, but
comparisons with
Staphylococcus epidermidis
and other
gram-positive bacteria, such as
Bacillus subtilis
, are
included where appropriate. Importantly, the results of genomic and
proteomic studies on
S. aureus
secretomes are integrated
through a comparative “secretomics” approach, resulting
in the first definition of the core and variant secretomes of this
bacterium. While the core secretome seems to be largely employed for
general housekeeping functions which are necessary to thrive in
particular niches provided by the human host, the variant secretome
seems to contain the “gadgets” that
S. aureus
needs to conquer these well-protected
niches.
A Fungal Family of Transcriptional Regulators: the Zinc Cluster Proteins
Authors: MacPherson Sarah , Larochelle Marc , Turcotte Bernard
Published: September 2006

The trace element zinc is required for proper functioning of a large number of proteins, including various enzymes. However, most zinc-containing proteins are transcription factors capable of binding DNA and are named zinc finger proteins. They form one of the largest families of transcriptional regulators and are categorized into various classes according to zinc-binding motifs. This review focuses on one class of zinc finger proteins called zinc cluster (or binuclear) proteins. Members of this family are exclusively fungal and possess the well-conserved motif CysX2CysX6CysX5-12CysX2CysX6-8Cys. The cysteine residues bind to two zinc atoms, which coordinate folding of the domain involved in DNA recognition. The first- and best-studied zinc cluster protein is Gal4p, a transcriptional activator of genes involved in the catabolism of galactose in the budding yeastSaccharomyces cerevisiae. Since the discovery of Gal4p, many other zinc cluster proteins have been characterized; they function in a wide range of processes, including primary and secondary metabolism and meiosis. Other roles include regulation of genes involved in the stress response as well as pleiotropic drug resistance, as demonstrated in budding yeast and in human fungal pathogens. With the number of characterized zinc cluster proteins growing rapidly, it is becoming more and more apparent that they are important regulators of fungal physiology.
Epigenetic Gene Regulation in the Bacterial World
Authors: Casadesús Josep , Low David
Published: September 2006

Like many eukaryotes, bacteria make widespread use of postreplicative DNA methylation for the epigenetic control of DNA-protein interactions. Unlike eukaryotes, however, bacteria use DNA adenine methylation (rather than DNA cytosine methylation) as an epigenetic signal. DNA adenine methylation plays roles in the virulence of diverse pathogens of humans and livestock animals, including pathogenicEscherichia coli,Salmonella, Vibrio, Yersinia, Haemophilus, andBrucella. InAlphaproteobacteria, methylation of adenine at GANTC sites by the CcrM methylase regulates the cell cycle and couples gene transcription to DNA replication. InGammaproteobacteria, adenine methylation at GATC sites by the Dam methylase provides signals for DNA replication, chromosome segregation, mismatch repair, packaging of bacteriophage genomes, transposase activity, and regulation of gene expression. Transcriptional repression by Dam methylation appears to be more common than transcriptional activation. Certain promoters are active only during the hemimethylation interval that follows DNA replication; repression is restored when the newly synthesized DNA strand is methylated. In theE. coligenome, however, methylation of specific GATC sites can be blocked by cognate DNA binding proteins. Blockage of GATC methylation beyond cell division permits transmission of DNA methylation patterns to daughter cells and can give rise to distinct epigenetic states, each propagated by a positive feedback loop. Switching between alternative DNA methylation patterns can split clonal bacterial populations into epigenetic lineages in a manner reminiscent of eukaryotic cell differentiation. Inheritance of self-propagating DNA methylation patterns governs phase variation in theE. coli papoperon, theagn43gene, and other loci encoding virulence-related cell surface functions.