bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elastic and inelastic analysis for weld failure prediction of two adjacent steel buildings
Authors: Hart Gary C. , Huang Sampson C. , Lobo Roy F. , Stewart Joe
Published: April 2007

Two adjacent buildings near the epicenter of the January 17th Northridge earthquake, one with weld fractures and one without weld fractures, are considered in this research. Both buildings are six stories in height, and their primary lateral force resisting system comprises special moment resisting frames above grade. The buildings considered are referred to herein as the East Building and the West Building. Two basic types of computer studies were performed. One was an elastic 3‐D analysis using SAP90, and the other an inelastic 2‐D analysis using DRAIN‐2DX. Three different models were, created for the elastic analysis. Two for the East Building, designated the ‘benchmark model’, and the ‘probable model’, and one for the West Building, designated the ‘West Building model’. Two different models were created for the inelastic analysis only for the East Building, also called the benchmark model and the probable model. The East Building was unoccupied at the time of the earthquake, hence two models were created for this building. The benchmark model is representative of the design state of the building, while the probable model is representative of the state of the building at the time of the earthquake. The West Building, which was fully occupied at the time of the earthquake, was modeled similarly to the benchmark. Elastic and inelastic studies were performed on these models to determine if a correlation exists between analysis and observed behavior. The findings from the analysis showed no damage to the West Building with possible damage to the East Building. This result is corroborated by the damage survey.
Creating a corporate culture in support of a global strategy
Authors: Want Jerome H.
Published: April 2007

If U.S. companies want to succeed both domestically and internationally, that means many need to begin now making some major changes to their corporate cultures.
Rule 144A: Why Foreign Companies Are “Taking the Plunge” into the US. Private Placement Market
Authors: Barton David J.
Published: April 2007

172e SEC'S new Rule 144A will encourage foreign issuers to sell their securities in the US., and US. institutional investors can expect a greater variety of foreign investment alternatives than ever before. But some US. companies seeking to raise funds through private securities offerings may eventually need to contend with the additional competition for US. investment dollars created by the foreign oferings. It's all part of what is fast becoming an international market for capital.
EC standards process: Why U.S. firms should participate
Authors: Diebold David K.
Published: April 2007

New European Community product standards and certification rules will have a major impact on US. sales there in coming years. With stronger European growth and the lower US. dollar creating broad opportunities for US. exporters, businesspeople must actively participate in the standards‐setting process by commenting upon technical positions and draft proposals, both in the national standards organizations and in Europe‐wide standards bodies.
The impact of 1992 on product liability in Europe
Authors: Hollmann Hermann H.
Published: April 2007

MNCs with plans for marketing within the EC after 1992 may want to prepare now for developments stemming from a directive calling for a tough stand on product liability within the European Community.
Thailand: The next NIC?
Authors: Bruce Bill
Published: April 2007

Some economists say that lkailand will be the next Asian country to acquire newly industrialized country status. What opportunities does it ofer your business?
Hiring for Subsidiaries in Developing Countries
Authors: Ballarin Oswaldo
Published: April 2007

If local personnel are qualified or can be trained to fill managerial positions in a subsidiary located in a developing country, then MNCs should give them the opportunity to do so. When local talent isn%'t available, expatriates should be used but they need to be fully briefed about the culture, language, and other aspects of the developing country to be their home.
Six months after the merger of the two Germanys
Authors: Sommerlatte Thomas
Published: April 2007

The merger of the two Germunys was expected to be messy over the short term but over the longer term lead to a powerhouse unlike anything Europe has ever seen before. Six months or so later, the merger has not been as messy as it could have been, but some of the expected positive developments have been slow to get of the ground too.
Competitive bidding strategies for European public contracts
Authors: Cova Bernard , Kassis Jane
Published: April 2007

Public contracts would seem a wonderful opportunity for firms outside the EC, but European public contracts seem closed to competition between European countries, let alone countries outside the EC. Recent new directives by the European Commission suggest a change, albeit a slow one, in the situation, and there are as well competitive bidding strategies European and US. Jirms may want to consider to open the door for their participation in this large marketplace.
What are the real prospects for total EC integration?
Authors: Madura Jeff , Wright Francis W.
Published: April 2007

Nothing can stop the momentum behind the movement for total European integration, or so it would seem. But what about the impact of Gemn reunijication, strong nationalistic feelings, and the socialist tradition in Europe? The authors look at what impact these might have on the move toward creation of a Single Market.
U.S. immigration policy: Responding to domestic labor shortages and a global economy
Authors: Rodino Peter W.
Published: April 2007

Last October, Congress approved a major revision to U.S. laws governing legal immigration. Its objective was to respond to domestic labor shortages within the setting of the new global economy. Peter Rodino was instrumental in that bill%'s passage, and believes the U.S. executives must posses a working knowledge of our nation%'s immigration policies.
How consistent is the international approach to long‐term incentives?
Authors: Foffe Maria C.
Published: April 2007

With the continuation of business expansion in the Asia/Pacific region as well as the upcoming unijication of Europe into a single economic market, there will be wen grbater pressure for a consistent and world‐wide approach to compensation opportunities for senior executives.
Characterization of the RNA binding energetics of the Candida albicans poly(A) polymerase
Authors: Bougie Isabelle , Bisaillon Martin
Published: April 2007

The 3′ ends of eukaryotic mRNAs are characterized by the presence of a poly(A) tail, which plays a critical role in stability, transport, and translation of the mRNAs. In the present study, we report the expression, purification and enzymatic characterization of the poly(A) polymerase of Candida albicans, an important human pathogen. As a first step toward elucidating the nature of the interaction between RNA and the enzyme, fluorescence spectroscopy assays were also performed to monitor the binding of RNA to the protein. Our assays revealed that the initial interaction between RNA and the enzyme is characterized by a high enthalpy of association and that the minimal RNA binding site of the enzyme is eight nucleotides. Moreover, both the kinetics of real‐time RNA binding and the contribution of electrostatic interactions to the overall binding energy were investigated. Finally, we also correlated the effect of RNA binding on protein structure, using both circular dichroism and guanidium hydrochloride‐induced denaturation studies as structural indicators. Our data indicate that the protein undergoes structural modifications upon RNA binding, although the interaction does not significantly modify the stability of the protein. In addition to the determination of the energetics of RNA binding, our study provides a better understanding of the molecular basis of RNA binding by poly(A) polymerases. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Responsiveness and stable revivals
Authors: Reed J. N. , Roscoe A. W. , Sinclair J. E.
Published: April 2007

Individual components in an inter-operating system require assurance from other components both of appropriate functionality and of suitable responsiveness. We have developed properties which capture the notion of non-blocking responsive behaviour, together with machine-based checks implemented in the CSP model-checker, FDR. In this paper we illustrate the use of our responsiveness properties with a small example, and provide a detailed comparison to related work in CCS. This work has led to the discovery of a new semantic model for CSP with respect to which such properties are fully abstract. We present the new stable revivals model and discuss implications for responsiveness checking.
Changing systems by changing individuals: the incubation approach to systems change
Authors: Staggs Susan L. , White Marlita L. , Schewe Paul A. , Davis Erica B. , Dill Ebony M.
Published: April 2007

This article describes and evaluates the implementation of an innovative approach to systems change, the incubation approach, which was developed on a systems change project designed to increase the capacity of multiple systems (e.g., law enforcement, child protection, domestic violence, mental health, early education) to respond to children's exposure to violence. The incubation approach encourages change agents to collaborate with project staff to gently nurture, or “incubate,” feasible and warranted change in target systems. Project staff gain concrete commitment from motivated and accessible change agents and collaborate with those agents to implement change actions. This approach works well with committed, executive‐level change agents in target systems, with stable systems that have low turnover and well‐integrated subsystems, and when seed funds are provided to key organizations.
Systems change as an outcome and a process in the work of community collaboratives for health
Authors: Emshoff James G. , Darnell Adam J. , Darnell Doyanne A. , Erickson Steve W. , Schneider Stan , Hudgins Rebekah
Published: April 2007

The widespread development of comprehensive community initiatives that aim to improve community health is driven by the need to change the systems charged with delivering the services and creating the policies related to a variety of health outcomes. Georgia's Family Connection initiative is the nation's largest statewide network of community collaboratives for health, with collaboratives operating in 159 counties. Data on community context, collaborative processes, engagement in systems change, and changes in programs and activities implemented, gathered consistently at the collaborative level over 3 years, will be used to answer the following questions. How do community contexts and the structure and processes of collaboratives affect implementation of systems change? How do systems changes affect intermediate outcomes such as the type of programs offered in a community? Longitudinal change in systems change and program implementation is described and significant predictors of between‐collaborative variation in longitudinal change for each outcome are identified.
Getting the social organism thinking: strategy for systems change
Authors: Christens Brian D. , Hanlin Carrie E. , Speer Paul W.
Published: April 2007

The ability of community researchers/practitioners to facilitate systems change is constrained by social power—particularly the capacity to shape ideology [S. Lukes (1974). Power: A radical view. Hampshire: MacMillan] and frequently power molds ideologies which undermine systems thinking. Following what Mills [C. W. Mills, (1959).The sociological imagination. New York: Oxford University Press] (termed the “sociological imagination”, this article makes the case for a strategy of systems change that promotes an integrated focus on systems and their constituent individuals. Both of these components are understood to continuously shape each other. Thesocial imaginationis introduced as a way to conceptualize the intersection between individuals' conceptions of systems and the ways that systems work to form individual identities and perceptions of social reality. Examples of attempts at systems change from community organizing and public health are used to illustrate both common fallacies and potential future directions for systems change efforts.
Statin therapy depresses total body fat oxidation in the absence of genetic limitations to fat oxidation
Authors: Fisher N. M. , Meksawan K. , Limprasertkul A. , Isackson P. J. , Pendergast D. R. , Vladutiu G. D.
Published: April 2007

Cholesterol lowering drugs are associated with myopathic side effects in 7% of those on therapy, which is reversible in most, but not all patients. This study tested the hypothesis that total body fat oxidation (TBFO) is reduced by statins in patients with genetic deficiencies in FO, determined by white blood cells (FOwbc) and by molecular analysis of common deficiencies, and would cause intolerance in some patients. Six patients on statin therapy without myopathic side effects (tolerant) and 7 patients who had previously developed statin‐induced myopathic symptoms (intolerant) (age=58 ± 8.25 yrs, ht.=169±11 cm, and wt. = 75.4 ±14.2 kg) were tested for TBFO (Respiratory Exchange Ratio, RER) pre‐ and during exercise. FOwbc was not significantly different between tolerant and intolerant (0.261 ±0.078 vs. 0.296 ±0.042 nmol/h per 109 wbc), or normals (0.27 ±0.09 nmol/h per 109 wbc) and no common molecular abnormalities were found. Pre‐exercise RER (0.73 ±0.05 vs. 0.84 ±0.05) was significantly lower in the intolerant group and the Vo2 at RER=1.0 (1.27 ±0.32 vs. 1.87±0.60 L/min) greater than the tolerant. Post‐exercise lactates were not different between groups. Although dietary fat intake was not different, blood lipoprotein levels, particularly triglycerides were 35% lower in tolerant than previously intolerant. TBFO and blood lipoproteins were reduced in tolerant patients in spite of the absence of genetic limitations, but not in the intolerant group as hypothesized. Although not conclusive, these data suggest the need for a prospective study of the effects of statins on fat oxidation.
Effects of three different conjugated linoleic acid preparations on insulin signalling, fat oxidation and mitochondrial function in rats fed a high-fat diet
Authors: Choi Joo Sun , Koh In-Uk , Jung Myeong Ho , Song Jihyun
Published: April 2007

To investigate the effects of three different conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) preparations containing different ratios of CLA isomers on insulin signalling, fatty acid oxidation and mitochondrial function, Sprague–Dawley rats were fed a high-fat diet either unsupplemented or supplemented with one of three CLA preparations at 1 % of the diet for 8 weeks. The first CLA preparation contained approximately 30 %cis-9,trans-11 (c9,t11)-CLA isomer and 40 %trans-10,cis-12 (t10,c12)-CLA isomer (CLA-mix). The other two preparations were an 80:20 mix (c9,t11-CLA-mix) or a 10:90 mix of two CLA isomers (t10,c12-CLA-mix). Insulin resistance was decreased in all three supplemented groups based on the results of homeostasis model assessment and the revised quantitative insulin-sensitivity check index. The phosphorylation of insulin receptor substrate-1 on serine decreased in the livers of all three supplemented groups, while subsequent Akt phosphorylation increased only in thet10,c12-CLA-mix group. Both thec9,t11-CLA-mix and thet10,c12-CLA-mix increased the expression of hepatic adiponectin receptors R1 and 2, which are thought to enhance insulin sensitivity and fat oxidation. Thec9,t11-CLA-mix increased protein and mRNA levels of PPARα, acyl-CoA oxidase and uncoupling protein, which are involved in fatty acid oxidation and energy dissipation. Thec9,t11-CLA-mix enhanced mitochondrial function and protection against oxidative stress by increasing the activities of cytochromecoxidase, manganese-superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione reductase and the level of GSH. In conclusion, all three CLA preparations reduced insulin resistance. Among them, thec9,t11-CLA-mix was the most effective based on the parameters reflecting insulin resistance and fat oxidation, and mitochondrial antioxidative enzyme activity in the liver.
Accurate consent for insertion and later removal of grommets
Authors: Sood S , Waddell A
Published: April 2007

Each year in the UK over 30 000 patients undergo insertion of grommets. The grommet insertion may cause many problems like persistent otorrhoea, scarred drum, retraction pockets and retention. The grommets may be extruded from the middle ears by the normal epithelial migration mechanism once they have served their purpose. These may become infected and require removal. We have analysed the Department of Health Hospital Episode Statistics relating to the insertion and removal of grommets (ventilation tubes). We have shown that 7.6 per cent of patients who have grommets inserted will have grommets removed.
Maxillary intraosseous vascular malformation: a case report and literature review
Authors: Naraghi A , Keene M
Published: April 2007

We present a rare case of maxillary intraosseous vascular malformation and review the nomenclature used by pathologists and clinicians in classifying vascular anomalies. We also discuss the literature and highlight potential management pitfalls.
Management of tinnitus induced by brainstem and cerebellar infarction associated with complications of cerebello-pontine angle surgery
Authors: Brewis S , Baguley D M
Published: April 2007

Following surgery in the USA in 1992 to remove a large right cerebello-pontine angle tumour, a 39-year-old woman developed severe brainstem and cerebellar infarction. This left her with severe visual impairment and ataxia. She became able to communicate by means of an adapted finger-spelling alphabet. She had total hearing loss in the right ear and a mild to moderately severe sensorineural hearing loss in the left ear, and severe tinnitus heard throughout the head. Additionally, she experienced hypersensitivity to sound above normal conversational levels, which evoked a synaesthetic feeling of coldness across her upper torso. Previous linear analogue hearing aid fitting had not been beneficial for either hearing or tinnitus. Careful fitting of a digital hearing aid, together with tinnitus counselling, inhibited the patient's tinnitus to 25 per cent of its former intensity after a six month acclimatisation period, and improved communication.
Ecological boundaries in estuaries: macrobenthic β-diversity in the Río de la Plata system (34–36°S)
Authors: Giberto D.A. , Bremec C.S. , Cortelezzi A. , Rodrigues Capitulo A. , Brazeiro A.
Published: April 2007

In this study, we analyse spatial patterns of macrobenthic communities of the Río de la Plata system, and assess the species turnover or beta diversity and its relationship with environmental gradients. Macrobenthic samples and physico-chemical parameters were collected from 20 sampling sites along a transect of 560 km, including the freshwater (FW), estuarine (ES) and marine (MA) sectors. Three main assemblages corresponding to the above mentioned sectors were defined with multivariate analysis (cluster, MDS). In total 134 taxa were recorded, 81 in MA, 33 in FW and 38 in ES, represented mainly by polychaete, mollusc and crustacean species. Depth, salinity and %clay showed the strongest correlation with the observed faunal patterns (ρw=0.62; BIO-ENV analysis). Beta diversity varied between dominant taxonomic groups and was positively correlated with changes in salinity. The high variability in the composition of assemblages was reflected in beta diversity, reaching its highest values at the boundaries between the defined sectors. This study suggests that beta diversity represents a useful tool to define ecological boundaries for benthic communities in the Río de la Plata.
Biodiversity among mussels: separating the influence of sizes of mussels from the ages of patches
Authors: O'Connor N.E. , Crowe T.P.
Published: April 2007

The role of habitat structure in controlling the composition of assemblages has often been studied, but is rarely manipulated so that it is distinguishable from other factors. Differences in habitat structure as determined by differences in mussel size structure may affect the diversity of assemblages associated with mussel beds. Previous studies examining the effect of the size of individual mussels in a patch on the diversity of associated macro-faunal assemblages confounded the age of the patch with the size of the mussels. We manipulated the age of mussel patches and the size of the mussels within them to test experimentally whether the size of mussels influenced the structure of associated assemblages. At one of the two locations considered, the structure of macro-faunal assemblages in patches of larger mussels differed significantly from those in patches of the same age composed of smaller mussels. At this location, the size of mussels did not affect species richness but the abundance and proportion of organisms present differed depending on the size of the mussels. Here patches of larger mussels contained greater numbers of Nematodes and Oligochaetes and a lower abundance of taxa such as Jaera forsmani and Lepidonotus clava. We also found that invertebrate assemblages in general differed between the two locations. The effect of the size structure of mussels, however, varied spatially demonstrating that the effect of habitat structure on the diversity of associated assemblages is context dependent.
Growth, reproductive cycle and penis shedding of Littorina littorea in the Ria de Aveiro (north-west Portugal)
Authors: Barroso C.M. , Gonçalves C. , Moreira M.H.
Published: April 2007

The growth and the reproductive cycle of Littorina littorea were investigated in the Ria de Aveiro, Portugal, a country cited as the southern limit of the species distribution in Europe. Littorina littorea growth is well represented by the von Bertalanffy equation SH=24.6[1-e-0.69(t-0.70)] where SH is the shell height (distance from shell apex to the basis of the aperture measured in mm) and t is the number of winters: after periwinkles have reached a mean SH of 4.6 mm in their first winter they grow progressively to about 14.6 mm, 19.6 mm, 22.1 mm and 23.4 mm in the following four years and they attain the asymptotic mean maximum SH of 24.6 mm at the tenth year if they survive. Ripening of the gonads occurred from October to May but was more intense from December to February, whereas spawning extended from January to May in females and November to May in males. There was a seasonal shedding of the male penis at the end of the breeding season (summer) accompanying regression of the testis.
Discrete and continuous change in the fish community of the Bristol Channel in response to climate change
Authors: Henderson P.A.
Published: April 2007

Using a 25-year time series of monthly samples, it is shown that the fish community of Bridgwater Bay in the outer Severn estuary is rapidly responding to changes in seawater temperature, salinity and the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO). The number of fish caught each year has followed an increasing trend, which could be related to increased temperature and decreased salinity. In contrast to this smooth change, there have been two discrete transitions in fish community structure around 1986 and 1993. The first of these step changes, which altered the relative abundance of the dominant species, was linked to a change in the NAO. The second, which was caused by a change in the set of occasional visitor species, was linked to an increase in average seawater temperature. A marked increase in population variability for many fish in recent years is linked to increased seawater temperature. Generally, the position of the southern geographical limit of a species is a good indicator of their individual responses to higher temperatures. The effects of future climate change are discussed. A 2°C increase in inshore seawater temperature is predicted to increase total species richness of fish in Bridgwater Bay by 10%, although most of this gain will be warm water tourists. Predicting future communities requires consideration of combined changes in temperature, the NAOI and salinity. While the system can change to a warmer water community, there is likely to be increased short-term community instability during periods with unfavourable combinations of the key environmental variables. Such a destabilization was observed in 2002 when the abundance of many species suddenly increased then declined. A different combination of NAO, high temperature and salinity may, in the future, produce a considerable less favourable combination resulting in recruitment collapse for many species.
Influence of recruitment and temperature on distribution of intertidal barnacles in the English Channel
Authors: Herbert R.J.H. , Southward A.J. , Sheader M. , Hawkins S.J.
Published: April 2007

Many warm-water (Lusitanian) species reach their limits in the central English Channel, failing to penetrate to the North Sea. We re-surveyed the eastern limits of the Lusitanian intertidal barnacles Chthamalus montagui and C. stellatus, from 1994 to 2004, a decade of exceptionally high sea temperatures, and found range extensions on both sides of the Channel compared to the 1950s and 1970s. Annual recruitment of Chthamalus on the English coast was monitored. There was a consistent gradient of low recruitment to the east of Portland Bill, with significant reductions coinciding with prominent headlands. Highest recruitment occurred during the warmest years. Cluster analysis showed a high degree of similarity of annual recruitment within coastal cells suggesting that local processes are also important. In 1999 we compared recruitment in the other common intertidal barnacles, the boreal Semibalanus balanoides and the non-native Elminius modestus, with Chthamalus spp. All species showed low recruitment between Selsey Bill and Portland Bill, suggesting habitat limitations and/or hydrographic mechanisms. Annual recruitment of Chthamalus at existing limits on the Isle of Wight was positively correlated with the number of days of westerly and south-westerly winds during the summer, coinciding with the pelagic larval phase. A ‘pulse’ of high Chthamalus recruitment on the Isle of Wight, measured during the summer of 2000, reversed population decline. Only a higher frequency of such pulses will maintain populations at existing limits and increase the rate of range extension towards the North Sea. Such extension will be limited by lack of hard substrata, but proliferation of coastal defence schemes in recent years is increasing suitable habitat for barnacles.
Density-dependent effect on reproductive behaviour of Lysmata amboinensis and L. boggessi (Decapoda: Caridea: Hippolytidae)
Authors: Zhang Dong , Rhyne Andrew L. , Lin Junda
Published: April 2007

We compared the reproductive behaviours of two protandric simultaneous hermaphroditic species (Lysmata amboinensis and L. boggessi) that belong to two groups of Lysmata shrimp with different morphology, geographical distribution, and density. Lysmata amboinensis occurs in tropical waters at low population densities, and L. boggessi is found in aggregation in sub-tropical and temperate areas. Reproductive behaviour of L. boggessi under two densities and L. amboinensis in different habitats were compared. Results show that L. amboinensis was much less active during mating than L. boggessi. Male shrimp of L. amboinensis did not display obvious pre-copulation behaviour. They also took significantly longer to transfer spermatophores and lay eggs after mating than L. boggessi shrimp did. For L. boggessi, moulting time of female shrimp, copulation time and the interval between moulting and mating were significantly shorter when three male shrimp were present than when only one male shrimp was present. Our study suggests that the reproductive behavioural differences in the two shrimp species are possibly the results of density-dependent effect.
Patterns of distribution of dominant porcelain crabs (Decapoda: Porcellanidae) under boulders in the intertidal of northern Chile
Authors: Emparanza Esteban J.M.
Published: April 2007

Porcelain crabs live in dense aggregations under boulders in the intertidal zone of northern Chile. A quantitative approach was performed to examine the distribution patterns of dominant species and to correlate it with emersion and temperature under the boulders. The study involved six tidal levels across the intertidal with six replicates each, totalling 36 samples of 0.09 m2. From the seven species found, Petrolisthes granulosus, P. violaceus and Allopetrolisthes angulosus took in 49.06%, 25.20% and 25.51% respectively, of the total number of individuals collected (N=10,631). The distribution patterns showed P. granulosus dominating in the upper levels (up to 73% of emersion and 22°C), P. granulosus and P. violaceus coexisting in the middle levels (48% of emersion and 21.6°C), and A. angulosus dominating in the lower levels (below 20% of emersion and 17.8°C). Size distribution for P. granulosus declined at its limit levels of distribution, the same tendency appeared at the upper limits of P. violaceus and A. angulosus. Temperature and emersion gradients strongly affected the species richness, abundance and mean size of the species across the intertidal, thus clearly influencing the occurrence and distribution patterns of the species studied. The ability of the upper-middle shore species to tolerate high levels of temperature and emersion is suggested to explain their distribution patterns. Size distribution differences might have been caused by biological interactions as intra and interspecific competition. A foregut content analysis revealed trophic differences among the dominant species, a result that could be related to the distribution.
Tubiclavoides striatum gen. nov. et sp. nov. (Cnidaria: Hydrozoa) a new bathyal hydroid from the Gulf of Cadiz, north-east Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Moura Carlos J. , Cunha Marina R. , Schuchert Peter
Published: April 2007

Tubiclavoides striatum, a new species of an athecate hydroid, was found on mud volcanoes, inactive carbonate chimneys, and cold-water coral stands in the Gulf of Cadiz (south-western Iberian Peninsula, Atlantic Ocean). The new family Tubiclavoididae and the new genus Tubiclavoides are proposed to accommodate the new species. The new hydroid is characterized by scattered filiform tentacles, sporosacs developing among the tentacles and hydrocauli covered with striated perisarc, often subdivided into imbricating cones. A full description and illustrations are provided, as well as some notes on the ecology and distribution of the new species.
A new species of Trypanosyllis (Polychaeta: Syllidae) from the Levantine coast of Turkey (eastern Mediterranean)
Authors: Çinar Melih Ertan
Published: April 2007

The examination of rock and stone samples collected at 0.2–3 m in Mersin Bay (Levantine coast of Turkey) revealed the presence of 14 specimens belonging to a new species of Syllidae (Polychaeta), Trypanosyllis sanmartini. The species is mainly characterized by having dark reddish-brown dorsal cirri, pale yellowish body colour, weakly bidentate falcigers, long and filiform dorsal cirri, long proventricle and pharynx, and a trepan with ten large teeth (without a pharyngeal mid-dorsal tooth). The posterior-most segments of the holotype and five paratypes had a cluster of stolons. The morphology and reproductive features of the species are explained and discussed.
Evolutionary relationships of the bivalve family Thyasiridae (Mollusca: Bivalvia), monophyly and superfamily status
Authors: Taylor John D. , Williams Suzanne T. , Glover Emily A.
Published: April 2007

Molecular analyses of 13 species of the marine bivalve family Thyasiridae, using sequences from 18S rRNA and 28S rRNA genes, showed that the family is monophyletic despite the anatomical disparity and inclusion of both chemosymbiotic and asymbiotic species. This new analysis also confirmed that the three families (Thyasiridae, Lucinidae and Ungulinidae), previously included in the Lucinoidea, were not closely related. Four species of Ungulinidae grouped within a clade containing Veneridae, Arcticidae and Mactridae. In relation to a range of other heterodont bivalves, Thyasiridae occupied a near basal position, apart from a clade comprising Carditidae/Astartidae/Crassatellidae. The earliest thyasirid recognized in the fossil record is a species from the Lower Cretaceous of England. Within the Thyasiridae, some groups can be identified but relations between these are weakly supported. Amongst the taxa analysed, those with symbiotic bacteria and two ctenidial demibranchs belong to at least three groups, while there is some support for a clade of asymbiotic taxa with single demibranchs. In recognition of the monophyletic status of the Thyasiridae, distinct from all other heterodont bivalves, we elevate the rank to superfamily Thyasiroidea.
How the unattached form of Acanthophora nayadiformis (Rhodophyta: Ceramiales) produces storage and perennating organs
Authors: Cecere Ester , Petrocelli Antonella , Perrone Cesira
Published: April 2007

In the Mar Piccolo of Taranto (southern Italy, Mediterranean Sea), an enclosed basin with lagoonal features, Acanthophora nayadiformis is one of the major components of the free-living seaweed community to which the related attached population does not contribute consistently. Loose thalli of A. nayadiformis exhibit morphological features very different from those of the attached specimens and possess a peculiar vegetative cycle including an overwintering phase. Free-living morphs are characterized by monopodial stoloniferous growth; in contrast, both determinate and indeterminate branching as well as the typical ramisympodial growth pattern of the species are lacking. In autumn, free-living thalli fragment giving rise to stolon pieces which undergo deep structural changes in their sub-apical parts including both storage of floridean starch and extensive cortical thickening. Soon afterwards the uncorticated parts decay, whilst the modified fragments are able to overwinter and give rise to new fronds during next spring.
Composition, biometry and statistical relationships between the cnidom and body size in the sea anemone Oulactis muscosa (Cnidaria: Actiniaria)
Authors: Acuña F.H. , Excoffon A.C. , Ricci L.
Published: April 2007

This study analyses the possible relationships between body size and length of cnidae from different tissues of the sea anemone Oulactis muscosa. We describe the cnidom, providing new qualitative and quantitative data. Our description adds spirocysts for tentacles and acrorhagi, and is more precise about the ranges and types of basitrichs, microbasic b-mastigophores, and holotrichs. We distinguish two types of holotrichs in the acrorhagi, and differentiate between microbasic b-mastigophores and basitrichs in the actinopharynx and mesenterial filaments. A relationship between cnida length and body weight was not demonstrated. The results are based on a complete account of cnida types from all tissues, and considering the great number of capsules measured (5400) and the modern statistical tools employed, we think that a normal distribution of cnida lengths is uncommon, perhaps refuted. This finding is very important when a quantitative analysis of cnidae is necessary and an adequate statistical tool must be used. We have shown that generalized linear models are an alternative and therefore analyses can be done with parametric methods despite the non-normal distribution of cnida size. The use of these statistical tools should be generalized since appropriate package for analyses (like the R package) are available from the web and the obtained results are robust and powerful.
The use of byssus threads by Mytilus edulis as an active defence against Nucella lapillus
Authors: Farrell Edward D. , Crowe Tasman P.
Published: April 2007

To assess whether Mytilus edulis is selective in its secretion of byssus threads and entrapment of gastropods, experiments were conducted in laboratory aquaria and in the field. Exposure to dogwhelks (Nucella lapillus) or their effluent induced mussels to produce twice as many byssus threads as mussels exposed only to winkles (Littorina littorea) or those exposed only to seawater. There were no significant differences among treatments in the area over which byssus threads were secreted. Significantly more byssus threads were attached to the shells of dogwhelks than to winkles. Laboratory experiments produced broadly similar results to those in the field, but the level of response in the laboratory was greater. It is concluded that byssus threads were attached selectively to dogwhelks and that they may serve as a defence against predation.
Coral disease prevalence and coral health in the Wakatobi Marine Park, south-east Sulawesi, Indonesia
Authors: Haapkylä J. , Seymour A.S. , Trebilco J. , Smith D.
Published: April 2007

This is the first study on coral diseases in the Wakatobi Marine National Park (WMNP), south-east Sulawesi. It aimed to provide baseline knowledge of coral disease prevalence and coral health in this remote region. Results indicate a low disease prevalence of 0.57% with only two known diseases occurring within the sampling unit, white syndrome (0.42%) and tumours (0.15%). They affected 15 taxonomic groups from a total of 32 taxonomic groups. The presence of black-band disease (BBD), skeletal eroding band (SEB) disease and Porites ulcerative white spot disease (PUWSD) was identified outside the study area. A large number of corals were affected by previously undescribed conditions (9.7% of colonies). The impact of lesions named as green spot, green band, pigmented spot, and flatworm infestation is not known and represents an important area for future studies.
Stable isotope profiles in sperm whale teeth: variations between areas and sexes
Authors: Mendes Sónia , Newton Jason , Reid Robert J. , Frantzis Alexandros , Pierce Graham J.
Published: April 2007

Sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus) teeth were used to investigate whether variation in the chronological profiles of carbon and nitrogen stable isotope ratios along dentine growth layers could reflect differences in ontogenetic movements and/or dietary shifts in animals from different regions and sexes, as well as to show the differences in the isotopic environments experienced by these animals. Absolute isotopic ratios ranged from -14.1 to -11.0‰ for carbon and 10.8 to 18.1‰ for nitrogen, with the whale from the Indian Ocean, the two from the Mediterranean Sea and the female from the Azores presenting the most different median isotopic ratios. The Icelandic and the Indian Ocean males showed the expected decrease in δ13C around the age of ten, denoting male segregation from natal groups. For the latter, this was larger by almost twofold compared to other teeth, probably due to the much stronger latitudinal gradient in planktonic δ13C in the southern hemisphere. The Mediterranean Sea whales exhibited the lowest median δ15N values, probably reflecting the oligotrophy of this sea, while the male showed a marked change in isotopes around the age of 20 that could indicate a move to the eastern basin or a temporal change in basal isotopic signatures. The Atlantic females did not show a marked change in δ13C as expected since they stay in low latitudes throughout their lives. Stable isotope profiles in whale teeth can be used to investigate differences in the timings of ontogenetic movements and dietary history between individuals and sexes, and the biogeochemistry of different regions inhabited, and have the potential to allow inferences to be made about population substructure.
Prevalence of depression in older people in England and Wales: the MRC CFA Study
Authors: McDOUGALL FIONA A. , KVAAL KARI , MATTHEWS FIONA E. , PAYKEL EUGENE , JONES PETER B. , DEWEY MICHAEL E. , BRAYNE CAROL
Published: April 2007

Background

Depression in old age is an important public health problem. The aims of this study were to report the prevalence of depression in the Medical Research Council Cognitive Function and Ageing Study (MRC CFAS), a community-based, cohort.

Method

Following screening of 13 004 people aged 65 and over from a population base, a stratified random subsample of 2640 participants received the Geriatric Mental State (GMS) examination and were diagnosed using the Automated Geriatric Examination for Computer-Assisted Taxonomy (AGECAT) algorithm.

Results

The prevalence of depression was 8·7% [95% confidence interval (CI) 7·3–10·2], increasing to 9·7% if subjects with concurrent dementia were included. Depression was more common in women (10·4%) than men (6·5%) and was associated with functional disability, co-morbid medical disorder, and social deprivation. Prevalence remained high into old age, but after adjustment for other associated factors, it was lower in the older age groups.

Conclusions

The prevalence of depression in the elderly is high and remains high into old age, perhaps due to increased functional disability.
Psychometric properties of DSM assessments of illicit drug abuse and dependence: results from the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC)
Authors: LYNSKEY M. T. , AGRAWAL A.
Published: April 2007

Background

DSM-IV criteria for illicit drug abuse and dependence are largely based on criteria developed for alcohol use disorders and there is a lack of research evidence on the psychometric properties of these symptoms when applied to illicit drugs.

Method

This study utilizes data on abuse/dependence criteria for cannabis, cocaine, stimulants, sedatives, tranquilizers, opiates, hallucinogens and inhalants from the National Epidemiological Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC, n=43 093). Analyses included factor analysis to explore the dimensionality of illicit drug abuse and dependence criteria, calculation of item difficulty and discrimination within an item response framework and a descriptive analysis of ‘diagnostic orphans’: individuals meeting criteria for 1–2 dependence symptoms but not abuse. Rates of psychiatric disorders were compared across groups.

Results

Results favor a uni-dimensional construct for abuse/dependence on each of the eight drug classes. Factor loadings, item difficulty and discrimination were remarkably consistent across drug categories. For each drug category, between 29% and 51% of all individuals meeting criteria for at least one symptom did not receive a formal diagnosis of either abuse or dependence and were therefore classified as ‘orphans’. Mean rates of disorder in these individuals suggested that illicit drug use disorders may be more adequately described along a spectrum of severity.

Conclusions

While there were remarkable similarities across categories of illicit drugs, consideration of item difficulty suggested that some alterations to DSM regarding the relevant severity of specific abuse and dependence criteria may be warranted.
Psychological distress, physical illness and risk of myocardial infarction in the Caerphilly study
Authors: RASUL F. , STANSFELD S. A. , DAVEY SMITH G. , SHLOMO Y. BEN , GALLACHER J.
Published: April 2007

Background

Studies have found associations between psychological distress (PD) and increased risk of myocardial infarction (MI). However, it is not clear whether the relationship reflects the subtle influence of pre-existing illness on both PD and MI. This study examines the association between PD and MI in a prospective epidemiological study of 1864 middle-aged men to examine if the association is explained by existing illness.

Method

This study was a prospective cohort study modelling the association between PD, measured using the 30-item General Health Questionnaire (GHQ) and non-fatal myocardial infarction (NFMI) and fatal/non-fatal myocardial infarction (FNFMI).The relationship was modelled in a series of logistic regression models adjusted for age, then cigarette smoking, then social position, and finally for all sociodemographic characteristics, coronary heart disease (CHD) risk factors, and baseline CHD.

Results

PD was associated with a 70% and 68% increased risk of NFMI and FNFMI in fully adjusted analysis. However, PD was not associated with an increased risk of NFMI and FNFMI in analyses excluding those with baseline CHD. Further, being psychologically distressed and physically ill was associated with a greater than twofold risk of NFMI and FNFMI, 2·37 (95% CI 1·33–4·20) and 2·33 (95% CI 1·32–4·12) respectively.

Conclusions

This study suggests that PD is a moderator of the increased risk of MI associated with existing physical illness. PD in men who are physically ill is a marker of an underlying chronic physical illness. The prospective association of PD with MI is not independent of baseline physical illness.
Serious psychiatric outcome of subjects prenatally exposed to diethylstilboestrol in the E3N cohort study
Authors: VERDOUX HELENE , ROPERS JACQUES , COSTAGLIOLA DOMINIQUE , CLAVEL-CHAPELON FRANÇOISE , PAOLETTI XAVIER
Published: April 2007

Background

Prenatal exposure to diethylstilboestrol (DES) may induce neurodevelopmental disturbances potentially mediating an increased risk of psychiatric disorders in exposed subjects. Most findings of an increased prevalence of psychiatric disorders in men and women prenatally exposed to DES are not easy to interpret because of selection biases.

Method

Information on hormonal treatment during pregnancy and on offspring's medical outcome was collected from women participating in the Etude Epidemiologique de femmes de la Mutuelle Générale de l'Education Nationale (E3N) prospective cohort who completed consecutive postal questionnaires on a range of medical events since 1990. Information on hormonal treatment during pregnancy was collected in 1992 and on offspring's medical outcome in 2004. The psychiatric outcome of subjects prenatally exposed to DES was compared to that of their unexposed siblings.

Results

A total of 1352 mothers with DES treatment for at least one pregnancy provided information on 1680 exposed children and 1447 unexposed siblings. After adjustment for duration of follow-up, educational level, history of obstetric complication, prenatal exposure to progestagen drugs or other hormones and parental history of psychiatric hospitalization, no association was found between prenatal exposure to DES and occurrence of strictly defined serious psychiatric outcome (suicide or psychiatric hospitalization) [adjusted odds ratio (OR) 0·8, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0·5–1·2], or of broadly defined serious psychiatric outcome (same events plus psychiatric or psychological consultation) (adjusted OR 1·0, 95% CI 0·8–1·2).

Conclusions

These findings suggest that the impact of prenatal DES exposure on foetal brain development, if any, is unlikely to increase the risk of serious psychiatric disorders.
Microhistory in early modern London: John Bedford (1601–1667)
Authors: BOULTON JEREMY
Published: April 2007

This article represents an exercise in microhistory applied to early modern London. Deploying prosopographical methods, it reconstructs the life history of one John Bedford (1601–1667) from his birth in Huntingdon to his death in the West End of London. Much of his adult life was spent in the London parish of St Dionis Backchurch, with an interlude in the Irish town of Londonderry. Bedford fled from Ulster at the outbreak of the Irish Rebellion in 1641. His unusually detailed will provides the bedrock of this narrative, and his reconstructed life sheds important light on ties between London and Ulster, on debt and credit relations and on the methodological strengths and limitations of community studies that focus on a specific place.