bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantitative trends in sponge ecology research
Authors: Becerro Mikel A.
Published: June 2008

Abstract It is almost dogmatic that sponges are one of the most relevant groups in benthic marine communities, a statement generally based upon their diversity and abundance in natural communities. But beyond their conspicuousness, do we really know the role that sponges play in nature? Using a series of productivity indicators, this review evaluates the relevance of sponge research to the general scientific community, particularly the contribution of sponge ecology to the broader science of ecology. The relevance of sponge research ranked second out of eight taxonomic groups. Ecology accounted for most of the sponge research output but it ranked poorly compared to the relative importance of the ecological literature in the remaining taxonomic groups. Sponge ecology focused primarily on the species level of organization even though the relevance of these studies fell well below expected. This review suggests that the ecological relevance of sponges is insufficiently supported by ecological data and would benefit from better scientific support. Sponge ecology has the opportunity to contribute to the broader science of ecology in numerous topics where sponge research may be particularly relevant. Broader ecological contributions will help verify the ecological relevance that the great diversity and abundance of sponges suggest.
Mediterranean commercial sponges: over 5000 years of natural history and cultural heritage
Authors: Pronzato Roberto , Manconi Renata
Published: June 2008

This paper deals with the history of the exploitation of a natural resource made up of various types of Mediterranean horny sponges. It also provides an update on trends in the trade of these sponges. The distribution and taxonomic status of Mediterranean species of commercial interest belonging to the genera Spongia and Hippospongia are reported upon and partly emended by (i) the selection of neotypes for Spongia mollissima, Hippospongia communis, and Spongia agaricina from the Indo‐Pacific Ocean versus the Mediterranean Spongia lamella, and (ii) the discussion regarding the problematic status of Spongia zimocca. Attention is also focused upon species that have been of recent commercial interest as sources of metabolites with biomedical potential, such as Dysidea avara, which is considered endangered due to a pressing demand for the industrial extraction of chemicals it produces (e.g. Avarol). The wild harvesting of new target sponges is also discussed, together with a proposal for a rational, sustainable, long‐term strategy for Mediterranean sponge management. Sponge culture in situ is suggested as a useful approach that may allow eco‐compatible management and conservation of this natural resource.
An analysis of sponge diversity and distribution at three taxonomic levels in the Thousand Islands/Jakarta Bay reef complex, West‐Java, Indonesia
Authors: De Voogd Nicole J. , Cleary Daniel F. R.
Published: June 2008

Very few coral reefs are located close enough to large cities to study the influence of large urban populations on reef assemblages. An exception is the Thousand Islands reef complex to the north of Jakarta, the capital city of Indonesia, and one of the largest conurbations in the world. Here we present data from a detailed survey where sponge assemblages were assessed at 30 patch reefs associated with islands in three coastal zones along an in‐to‐offshore gradient. Sponge assemblages are described at three taxonomic levels of detail (species, genus and family level). We recorded a total of 118 sponge species, 64 genera and 36 families, Aaptos suberitoides (Brønsted, 1934), Clathria (Thalysias) reinwardti (Vosmaer, 1880), Petrosia (Petrosia) nigricans (Lindgren, 1897) and Xestospongia testudinaria (Lamarck, 1813) were the most common species overall. There was a pronounced difference in composition among zones with the most distinct difference between the inshore zone and the other two zones. The inshore environment was characterised by very high turbidity and low live coral cover; the dominant substrate consisted of algal turf and sand. Environmental conditions improved and sponge diversity increased further offshore, although most areas appeared to have been affected by some form of disturbance. Ordinations were also largely congruent, at species, generic and family levels of taxonomic resolution. This indicates that variation in composition at higher taxonomic levels is a good indicator of variation at lower taxonomic levels, at least when there is a pronounced environmental gradient.
Sponges boring into precious corals: an overview with description of a new species of Alectona (Demospongiae, Alectonidae) and a worldwide identification key for the genus
Authors: Calcinai Barbara , Cerrano Carlo , Iwasaki Nozomu , Bavestrello Giorgio
Published: June 2008

Precious corals represent peculiar substrata for several species of boring sponges that exploit their carbonatic scleraxis, strongly decreasing their commercial value. Here we describe a new species of the genus Alectona from Japan recorded in a colony of Paracorallium japonicum (Kishinouye, 1903). The spicular complement of the new species consists of diactinal spicules covered by mushroom‐like tubercles, often modified into styloid forms, and fusiform amphiasters with two or sometimes four verticils, each generally made up of six short tubercled rays. A complete survey of the literature on boring sponges recorded in precious corals in the Mediterranean Sea and Pacific Ocean indicates that the species of the family Alectonidae are the most strictly associated to this kind of substratum. Their world distribution, in fact, partially or totally overlap that of their coral hosts.
Ovarian Sertoli‐Leydig cell tumor with heterologous gastrointestinal epithelium as a source of alpha‐fetoprotein: A case report
Authors: Watanabe Takafumi , Yamada Hidekazu , Morimura Yutaka , Abe Masafumi , Motoyama Teiichi , Sato Akira
Published: June 2008

Ovarian Sertoli‐Leydig cell tumors (SLCT) are rare sex cord stromal neoplasms. To date there have been approximately 25 case reports of ovarian SLCT expressing alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP). In such cases, AFP was immunohistochemically detected in the Sertoli cells, Leydig cells, or hepatocytes. This case report confirms heterologous gastrointestinal epithelium expression of AFP. A 20‐year‐old woman presented with complaints of abdominal enlargement and irregular menstrual cycles over one year. A right ovarian tumor was detected and the patient's serum AFP was elevated. A right salpingo‐oophorectomy was performed. On microscopic examination, the tumor was composed of a fibrosarcoma‐like area and a poorly differentiated SLCT area with heterologous gastrointestinal epithelium. Immunohistochemical analysis detected AFP in the gastrointestinal epithelium only. Postoperatively, serum AFP levels fell to normal. A recurrent tumor was discovered in the omentum after adjuvant chemotherapy, but serum AFP remained normal. A second laparotomy was performed and the recurrent tumor showed only fibrosarcoma‐like features. The patient received second line chemotherapy and is currently in remission. This is the first case of AFP production by heterologous gastrointestinal epithelium in SLCT.
Stroke in pregnancy associated with syphilis
Authors: Bowring Julie , Mahto Mrinalini , Mandal Debashis , Baker Philip N.
Published: June 2008

The Incidence of Syphilis has increased in developed countries over recent years. This potentially could lead to a rise in the number of cases presenting in obstetrics and a resurgence of congenital syphilis. Syphilis is a treatable condition, screening in pregnancy is both cost effective and cost beneficial. We describe a rare presentation of syphilis in a young woman in early pregnancy. The patient presented with a stroke, at which time her partner was diagnosed with early latent syphilis. Her findings were thought to be consistent with meningovascular syphilis and treatment lead to resolution of her symptoms. Antenatal screening for syphilis is offered to all women in the UK. Changing migration patterns and high‐risk behavior however, may cause cases to go undetected. Vigilant screening for syphilis is needed in pregnancy as prompt diagnosis and management will aim to cure the mother whilst preventing the adverse effects associated with congenital syphilis.
Targeted mutation of the calbindin D28K gene disrupts circadian rhythmicity and entrainment
Authors: Kriegsfeld Lance J. , Mei Dan Feng , Yan Lily , Witkovsky Paul , LeSauter Joseph , Hamada Toshiyuki , Silver Rae
Published: June 2008

The suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) is the principal circadian pacemaker in mammals. A salient feature of the SCN is that cells of a particular phenotype are topographically organized; this organization defines functionally distinct subregions that interact to generate coherent rhythmicity. In Syrian hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus), a dense population of directly retinorecipient calbindin D28K (CalB) neurons in the caudal SCN marks a subregion critical for circadian rhythmicity. In mouse SCN, a dense cluster of CalB neurons occurs during early postnatal development, but in the adult CalB neurons are dispersed through the SCN. In the adult retina CalB colocalizes with melanopsin‐expressing ganglion cells. In the present study, we explored the role of CalB in modulating circadian function and photic entrainment by investigating mice with a targeted mutation of the CalB gene (CalB−/− mice). In constant darkness (DD), CalB−/− animals either become arrhythmic (40%) or exhibit low‐amplitude locomotor rhythms with marked activity during subjective day (60%). Rhythmic clock gene expression is blunted in these latter animals. Importantly, CalB−/− mice exhibit anomalies in entrainment revealed following transfer from a light : dark cycle to DD. Paradoxically, responses to acute light pulses measured by behavioral phase shifts, SCN FOS protein and Period1 mRNA expression are normal. Together, the developmental pattern of CalB expression in mouse SCN, the presence of CalB in photoresponsive ganglion cells and the abnormalities seen in CalB−/− mice suggest an important role for CalB in mouse circadian function.
Behavioral relevance of gamma‐band activity for short‐term memory‐based auditory decision‐making
Authors: Kaiser Jochen , Heidegger Tonio , Lutzenberger Werner
Published: June 2008

Oscillatory activity in the gamma‐band range has been established as a correlate of cognitive processes, including perception, attention and memory. Only a few studies, however, have provided evidence for an association between gamma‐band activity (GBA) and measures of behavioral performance. Here we focused on the comparison between sample and test stimuli S1 and S2 during an auditory spatial short‐term memory task. Applying statistical probability mapping to magnetoencephalographic recordings from 28 human subjects, we identified GBA components distinguishing nonidentical from identical S1–S2 pairs. This activity was found at frequencies between 65 and 90 Hz and was localized over posterior cortical regions contralateral to the hemifield in which the stimuli were presented. The 10 best task performers showed higher amplitudes of this GBA component than the 10 worst performers. This group difference was most pronounced between about 150 and 300 ms after stimulus onset. Apparently the decision about whether test stimuli matched the stored representation of previously presented sample sounds relied partly on the oscillatory activation of networks representing differences between both stimuli. This result could be replicated by reanalyzing the combined data from two previous studies assessing short‐term memory for sound duration and sound lateralization, respectively. Similarly to our main study, GBA amplitudes to nonmatching vs. matching S1–S2 pairs were higher in good performers than poor performers. The present findings demonstrate the behavioral relevance of GBA.
Internal jugular vein diameter in pediatric patients: are the J‐shaped guidewire diameters bigger than internal jugular vein? An evaluation with ultrasound
Authors: SAYIN MURAT M. , MERCAN ARZU , KONER OZGE , TURE HATICE , CELEBI SUHEDA , SOZUBIR SELAMI , AYKAC BORA
Published: June 2008

Aim:  This study investigates whether the diameters of right internal jugular vein (RIJV) are suitable for the use of ‘big radius curved J‐tip’ Seldinger wires in pediatric patients.

Methods:  One‐hundred and thirty‐five children, 1 month to 15 years of age, scheduled for pediatric surgery were divided into four subgroups according to their age (0–12 months, 1–2 years, 2–6 years old, and >6 years). Patients in the 0–12 months group were further divided into two groups as 0–6 months and 7–12 months of age to evaluate RIJV characteristics in detail. Following anesthesia induction, depth, diameter, and area of RIJV were measured with ultrasound at the level of cricoid cartilage and sterno‐clavicular junction in supine and Trendelenburg position.

Results:  Infants in the 0–6 months of age group had the least mean diameter of RIJV at both the cricoid cartilage and the sternoclavicular junction level (0.484 ± 0.132 and 0.499 ± 0.136 cm). The aforementioned diameter was significantly lower than the values of other age groups (P < 0.05). Trendelenburg position did not increase RIJV diameter in children below 6 and cross‐sectional area below 2 years old. Correlations between age, height, weight, head circumference and RIJV diameter, cross‐sectional area, depth from the skin were weak.

Conclusion:  The diameter of the IJV in pediatric patients, especially infants, is often smaller than the diameter of the J‐tip guidewire curve. We speculate that this may lead to impeded guidewires and failed cannulation. It must also be kept in mind that the Trendelenberg position might not facilitate IJV cannulation in children <2 years of age.
Measuring circulating blood volume in newborn infants using pulse dye densitometry and indocyanine green
Authors: ALADANGADY NARENDRA , LEUNG TERENCE , COSTELOE KATE , DELPY DAVID
Published: June 2008

Background:  Circulating blood volume (BV) is an important, but often unconsidered, variable in newborn infants undergoing intensive care. The data on validation and repeatability of BV measurement are limited.

Aim:  To validate and test the repeatability of measuring BV in newborn infants using indocyanine green (ICG) and pulse dye densitometry (PDD).

Methods:  Validation– Paired measurements of BV were made using the fetal hemoglobin (HbF) dilution and the PDD method. Repeatability– The BV was measured twice at an interval of 30–40 min in a second group of infants.

Results:  Validation– Data from three of 13 infants studied were excluded because of probe dislodgement or ICG injection error. The median (range) birth weight of the 10 infants whose data were analyzed was 1032 g (740–2384 g) and seven (70%) were receiving either mechanical ventilation or nasal CPAP. The median BV measured by HbF dilution was 66.2 ml·kg−1 (43.7–81.0 ml·kg−1) and by the PDD method was 68.9 ml·kg−1 (49.3–101.0 ml·kg−1). The mean difference was 5.92 ml·kg−1 (sd 17.33 ml·kg−1). Repeatability– Twelve infants were studied and three excluded because of probe dislodgement/motion artifact or ICG injection error. The median weight of the nine infants whose data were analyzed was 1208 g (795–2600 g). The median (range) BV1 and BV2 were 70.5 ml·kg−1 (53.1–160 ml·kg−1) and 87.5 ml·kg−1 (38.0–248.0 ml·kg−1), respectively. Mean difference of the two BV estimates (BV1–BV2) was −24.6 ml·kg−1 (sd 33.3 ml·kg−1) and coefficient of repeatability was 66.5 ml·kg−1.

Conclusion:  Pulse dye densitometry can be used to measure BV in the newborn infant at the cotside but the repeatability measurements suggest that its use is limited.
Insulin therapy in elderly patients with type 2 diabetes: the role of insulin glargine
Authors: Janka H. U.
Published: June 2008

Within the USA, between 1980 and 2005, the prevalence of diagnosed diabetes has increased in all age groups, with the age group 65–74 years having the highest prevalence. The treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in elderly people is made more difficult than in their younger counterparts, primarily owing to the impact of co‐morbidities, complications and hypoglycaemia as well as technical difficulties with insulin injections. Accordingly, the treatment approach for elderly patients with T2DM may need to be modified to accommodate co‐morbidities and illnesses associated with ageing. Risks associated with insulin therapy, particularly hypoglycaemia, have traditionally limited the use of insulin in this patient population. Insulin glargine is associated with a low risk of hypoglycaemia compared with neutral protamine Hagedorn insulin, for example, and could thus provide a treatment of choice for healthcare providers when considering the increasing prevalence of diabetes in the elderly population. A regimen based on insulin glargine plus oral agents provides clinicians with a tool to help meet therapeutic targets in this population without increasing risk of hypoglycaemia.
Insulin management in overweight or obese type 2 diabetes patients: the role of insulin glargine
Authors: Davies M. , Khunti K.
Published: June 2008

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and obesity commonly co‐exist. Improved clinical management of T2DM and improved glycaemic control with traditional therapies including insulin usually result in some weight gain – a frequently perceived barrier to the introduction of insulin by both patient and healthcare professionals. Weight gain of 2.5 kg per 1% change in haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) is common in many studies. Strategies to minimize weight gain, particularly in obese patients, are essential to help patients better manage their diabetes and improve quality of life. Insulin analogues with lower risk of hypoglycaemia and better within‐patient variability compared with human insulin may help facilitate reaching treatment goals. Moreover, weight gain can be minimized by earlier insulinization and the use of basal insulin, such as insulin glargine, instead of premixed insulin. Data specific to the obese patient with T2DM are presented; they are currently limited but do indicate that insulin glargine therapy is associated with improved glycaemic control as well as less weight gain than other insulins, such as premixed insulin and prandial insulin regimens. Retrospective subanalyses of earlier trials and ongoing studies would shed further light on the impact of insulin therapy in obese people with T2DM in addition to determination of optimal therapeutic strategies.
The cost‐effectiveness of insulin glargine vs. neutral protamine Hagedorn insulin in type 2 diabetes: a focus on health economics
Authors: Levin P.
Published: June 2008

Diabetes mellitus is a major public health problem, in particular because of long‐term complications affecting essential organs, such as the eyes and kidneys, which can lead to a reduction in life expectancy and high healthcare costs. The number of individuals with diabetes mellitus is projected to rise worldwide from 171 million people in 2000 to 366 million people in 2030. With the number of patients with diabetes continually growing, the burden of pressure on worldwide health systems is huge. Accordingly, regulatory and marketing approvals of new medicines are beginning to incorporate economic evaluation techniques to determine their cost‐effectiveness. Overall, the studies included in this review show that the initiation of insulin glargine is cost‐effective and is expected to lead to substantial improvements in both life years (LYs) and quality‐adjusted LYs compared with neutral protamine Hagedorn insulin.
Beyond insulin replacement: addressing the additional needs of the diabetes patient
Authors: Dailey G.
Published: June 2008

The management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) typically focuses on correcting dysglycaemia to reduce risk for microvascular and macrovascular complications, possibly by reducing glucose‐mediated oxidative stress. However, other cardiometabolic risk factors, including abdominal obesity and dyslipidaemia are often overlooked in the quest for perfect glucose control. The currently used antidiabetic agents, including insulin, metformin, sulphonylureas and thiazolidinediones, have limited efficacy on these risk factors. A number of new therapeutic agents are undergoing clinical development, including glucagon‐like peptide 1 mimetics (exenatide and liraglutide) and dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors (sitagliptin and vildagliptin), which target the incretin system, and the cannabinoid‐1 receptor antagonists (rimonabant), which target the endocannabinoid system, may hold some promise for meeting these unmet needs. In this review, the clinical properties of these agents and potential treatment pathways to best use these agents are discussed for improving the management of T2DM and cardiovascular risk.
AtCDKA;1 silencing in Arabidopsis thaliana reduces reproduction of sedentary plant‐parasitic nematodes
Authors: Van de Cappelle Elke , Plovie Eva , Kyndt Tina , Grunewald Wim , Cannoot Bernard , Gheysen Godelieve
Published: June 2008

The activity of the Arabidopsis thaliana cyclin‐dependent kinase AtCDKA;1 is important throughout G1/S and G2/M transitions and guarantees the progression of the cell cycle. Inhibitor studies have shown that activation of the cell cycle is important for the development of nematode feeding sites. The aim of this study was to silence the expression of the AtCDKA;1 gene in nematode feeding sites to interfere with their development. Therefore, sense and antisense constructs were made for the AtCDKA;1 gene and fused to a nematode‐inducible promoter which was activated in nematode feeding sites at an earlier time point than AtCDKA;1. Two transgenic A. thaliana lines (S266 and S306) containing inverted repeats of the AtCDKA;1 gene and with reduced AtCDKA;1 expression in seedlings and galls were analysed in more detail. When the lines were infected with the root‐knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita, significantly fewer galls and egg masses developed on the roots of the transgenic than wild‐type plants. Infection of the AtCDKA;1‐silenced lines with Heterodera schachtii resulted in significantly fewer cysts compared with controls. The S266 and S306 lines showed no phenotypic aberrations in root morphology, and analysis at different time points after infection demonstrated that the number of penetrating nematodes was the same, but fewer nematodes developed to maturity in the silenced lines. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that silencing of CDKA;1 can be used as a strategy to produce transgenic plants less susceptible to plant‐parasitic nematodes.
Misery Is Not Miserly
Authors: Cryder Cynthia E. , Lerner Jennifer S. , Gross James J. , Dahl Ronald E.
Published: June 2008

Misery is not miserly: Sadness increases the amount of money that decision makers give up to acquire a commodity. The present research investigated when and why the misery-is-not-miserly effect occurs. Drawing on William James's concept of the material self, we tested a model specifying relationships among sadness, self-focus, and the amount of money that decision makers spend. Consistent with our Jamesian hypothesis, results demonstrated that the misery-is-not-miserly effect occurs only when self-focus is high. That is, self-focus moderates the effect of sadness on spending. Moreover, mediational analyses revealed that, at sufficiently high levels, self-focus mediates (explains) the relationship between sadness and spending. Because the study used real commodities and real money, the results hold implications for everyday decisions, as well as implications for the development of theory. For example, economic theories of spending may benefit from incorporating psychological theories—specifically, theories of emotion and the self—into their models.
Why Are Conservatives Happier Than Liberals?
Authors: Napier Jaime L. , Jost John T.
Published: June 2008

In this research, we drew on system-justification theory and the notion that conservative ideology serves a palliative function to explain why conservatives are happier than liberals. Specifically, in three studies using nationally representative data from the United States and nine additional countries, we found that right-wing (vs. left-wing) orientation is indeed associated with greater subjective well-being and that the relation between political orientation and subjective well-being is mediated by the rationalization of inequality. In our third study, we found that increasing economic inequality (as measured by the Gini index) from 1974 to 2004 has exacerbated the happiness gap between liberals and conservatives, apparently because conservatives (more than liberals) possess an ideological buffer against the negative hedonic effects of economic inequality.
Learning Concepts and Categories
Authors: Kornell Nate , Bjork Robert A.
Published: June 2008

Inductive learning—that is, learning a new concept or category by observing exemplars—happens constantly, for example, when a baby learns a new word or a doctor classifies x-rays. What influence does the spacing of exemplars have on induction? Compared with massing, spacing enhances long-term recall, but we expected spacing to hamper induction by making the commonalities that define a concept or category less apparent. We asked participants to study multiple paintings by different artists, with a given artist's paintings presented consecutively (massed) or interleaved with other artists' paintings (spaced). We then tested induction by asking participants to indicate which studied artist (Experiments 1a and 1b) or whether any studied artist (Experiment 2) painted each of a series of new paintings. Surprisingly, induction profited from spacing, even though massing apparently created a sense of fluent learning: Participants rated massing as more effective than spacing, even after their own test performance had demonstrated the opposite.
Does Subitizing Reflect Numerical Estimation?
Authors: Revkin Susannah K. , Piazza Manuela , Izard Véronique , Cohen Laurent , Dehaene Stanislas
Published: June 2008

Subitizing is the rapid and accurate enumeration of small sets (up to 3–4 items). Although subitizing has been studied extensively since its first description about 100 years ago, its underlying mechanisms remain debated. One hypothesis proposes that subitizing results from numerical estimation mechanisms that, according to Weber's law, operate with high precision for small numbers. Alternatively, subitizing might rely on a distinct process dedicated to small numerosities. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that there is a shared estimation system for small and large quantities in human adults, using a masked forced-choice paradigm in which participants named the numerosity of displays taken from sets matched for discrimination difficulty; one set ranged from 1 through 8 items, and the other ranged from 10 through 80 items. Results showed a clear violation of Weber's law (much higher precision over numerosities 1–4 than over numerosities 10–40), thus refuting the single-estimation-system hypothesis and supporting the notion of a dedicated mechanism for apprehending small numerosities.
THE PURCHASING POWER PARITY PERSISTENCE PUZZLE: EVIDENCE FROM BLACK MARKET REAL EXCHANGE RATES*
Authors: CERRATO MARIO , KELLARD NEIL , SARANTIS NICHOLAS
Published: June 2008

In this paper we analyse the purchasing power parity (PPP) persistence puzzle using a unique data set of black market real exchange rates for 36 emerging market economies and (exact and approximate) median unbiased univariate and panel estimation methods. We construct bootstrap confidence intervals for the half‐lives, as well as exact quantiles of the median function for different significance levels using Monte Carlo simulation. Even after accounting for a number of econometric issues, the PPP persistence puzzle is still a striking characteristic of the majority of emerging market countries. However, in a minority of exchange rates, the PPP puzzle is removed.
OPTIMAL PORTFOLIO, CONSUMPTION‐LEISURE AND RETIREMENT CHOICE PROBLEM WITH CES UTILITY
Authors: Choi Kyoung Jin , Shim Gyoocheol , Shin Yong Hyun
Published: June 2008

We study optimal portfolio, consumption‐leisure and retirement choice of an infinitely lived economic agent whose instantaneous preference is characterized by a constant elasticity of substitution (CES) function of consumption and leisure. We integrate in one model the optimal consumption‐leisure‐work choice, the optimal portfolio selection, and the optimal stopping problem in which the agent chooses her retirement time. The economic agent derives utility from both consumption and leisure, and is able to adjust her supply of labor flexibly above a certain minimum work‐hour, and also has a retirement option. We solve the problem analytically by considering a variational inequality arising from the dual functions of the optimal stopping problem. The optimal retirement time is characterized as the first time when her wealth exceeds a certain critical level. We provide the critical wealth level for retirement and characterize the optimal consumption‐leisure and portfolio policies before and after retirement in closed forms. We also derive properties of the optimal policies. In particular, we show that consumption in general jumps around retirement.
MEAN–VARIANCE HEDGING AND OPTIMAL INVESTMENT IN HESTON'S MODEL WITH CORRELATION
Authors: Černý Aleš , Kallsen Jan
Published: June 2008

This paper solves the mean–variance hedging problem in Heston's model with a stochastic opportunity set moving systematically with the volatility of stock returns. We allow for correlation between stock returns and their volatility (so‐called leverage effect). Our contribution is threefold: using a new concept of opportunity‐neutral measure we present a simplified strategy for computing a candidate solution in the correlated case. We then go on to show that this candidate generates the true variance‐optimal martingale measure; this step seems to be partially missing in the literature. Finally, we derive formulas for the hedging strategy and the hedging error.
Pacifist Brawn and Silk‐Stocking Militarism: Labor, Gender, and Antiwar Politics, 1914–1918
Authors: McKillen Elizabeth
Published: June 2008

Historians have recently devoted significant attention to exploring the ways in which gendered imagery and assumptions were used to mobilize popular support for U.S. foreign and military policies during World War I. Preparedness and government propagandists routinely conflated manliness with military service and attempted to discredit male opponents of war by casting aspersions on their masculinity. The female Red Cross worker was upheld as the ideal model citizen for American women. But a diverse array of antiwar groups hotly contested the notions of gendered citizenship duties promoted by pro‐war activists. This article explores the responses of the Socialist Party, Industrial Workers of the World, and American Federation of Labor to the gendered propaganda of preparedness advocates and the Wilson administration between 1914 and 1918.
Business Communities and Peace: The Cost‐Benefit Calculations of Political Involvement
Authors: Cohen Nissim , Ben‐Porat Guy
Published: June 2008

This work explains the relative lack of involvement of Jordanian and Palestinian business communities in the Middle East peace processes. Based on interviews held with businesspeople, analysis of policy documents and secondary materials and textual sources, several explanations for this political inactivity are examined. First, the limited interest of the business community in the peace process underscores its limited commitment to peace. Second, the business community's inability to organize prevents effective collective action. Third, the business community is not significant enough to influence the political process. And, fourth, the estimated risks and costs of political involvement overshadow the potential benefits of peace. We find that while the business community has an interest in peace, it remains largely passive because fears of Israel's economic domination limit the perceived gains, and, more importantly, the perceived risks and costs of political involvement are high. Consequently, while some businesspeople cooperate with Israelis, this cooperation is generally kept quiet and does not translate into visible political support for the process.
PRNP 1368 polymorphism is not associated with sporadic Creutzfeldt‐Jakob disease in the Korean population
Authors: Jeong B.‐H. , Lee K.‐H. , Lee Y.‐J. , Kim Y.‐H. , Cho Y.‐S. , Carp R. I. , Kim Y.‐S.
Published: June 2008

Background:  Human prion protein gene (PRNP) is considered a critical and fundamental gene in determining the incidence of human prion diseases. Codons 129 and 219 play an important role in the susceptibility to sporadic Creutzfeldt‐Jakob disease (CJD). An association between sporadic CJD and the polymorphism (PRNP 1368) in an upstream of PRNP exon 1 has been reported in the British and German populations, but study in the Dutch population has failed to confirm an association.

Purpose:  To investigate whether the PRNP 1368 polymorphism is associated with sporadic CJD in the Korean population.

Methods:  We compared the genotype and allele frequencies of PRNP 1368 polymorphism in 171 sporadic CJD patients with those in 212 healthy Koreans.

Result and conclusion:  A significant difference of genotype and allele frequencies at PRNP 1368 was found between the normal Korean population and various European populations. In contrast to the results in the British and German populations, our study does not show a significant difference in genotype (P = 0.2763) and allele (P = 0.3750) frequencies of PRNP 1368 between sporadic CJD and normal controls.
On Metre in the Rondo of Brahms’s Op. 25
Authors: MURPHY SCOTT
Published: June 2008

The rondo from Brahms's Piano Quartet Op. 25 projects a number of different metres which may be organised into various metric spaces modelled on those of David Lewin and Richard Cohn. Although this organisation does not yield the multiple pitch‐time analogical mappings proposed by Lewin and Cohn, it may be fruitfully applied to many works of Brahms and other composers. I argue that a movement's centrally located metre (the work's ‘logical’ metric tonic) tends also to be its primary metre (the work's ‘rhetorical’ metric tonic), and outline a new method for hearing contiguities in certain metric spaces. I conclude by designing a metric space tailored for the metres of the Op. 25 rondo, in which the refrain's ‘tonic’ metre is centrally located in three dimensions.
Farmland birds and late winter food: does seed supply fail to meet demand?
Authors: SIRIWARDENA GAVIN M. , CALBRADE NEIL A. , VICKERY JULIET A.
Published: June 2008

Poor overwinter survival caused by low food availability represents the most likely mechanism behind the decline, and failure to recover, of many farmland passerine populations. Management to enhance food resources is now in place via agri‐environment schemes (AESs) such as Environmental Stewardship in England, but the measures concerned probably fail to provide a significant seed resource in late winter. Landscape‐scale experimental feeding over six winters was used to investigate the variation in demand for supplementary food from farmland birds between November and March. Quadratic modelling of the temporal variation in (semi‐)weekly bird‐use data from experimental feeding stations showed some evidence of curvilinear changes through the winter for all of the 11 granivorous or omnivorous species considered. For generalists and human‐associated granivores, peak use of supplementary food was found in January or earlier, suggesting that harsh weather is the principal influence. However, peaks occurred in February or later for Yellowhammer, Reed Bunting, Chaffinch and Dunnock, suggesting an effect of ambient food availability. These species depend on seed in farmland in winter and three of them have declined, probably because of reduced survival (rather than poor breeding success). It is likely that current farming practices, including existing agri‐environment prescriptions, do not provide enough food in late winter for such species and that the loss of set‐aside will exacerbate this problem. Revisions of management guidelines and crop content for AES stubble and sacrificial crop prescriptions are needed to ensure late winter seed availability for farmland birds.
Adolescent Satisfaction with Computer‐Assisted Behavioural Risk Screening in Primary Care
Authors: Chisolm Deena J. , Gardner William , Julian Teresa , Kelleher Kelly J.
Published: June 2008

Background:  This study measures patient satisfaction with a computerised mental health and risk‐behaviour screening tool and predictors of satisfaction.

Method:  Youth, aged 11–20, were recruited to use a laptop‐based screening system in nine primary care clinics. The study assessed correlations between satisfaction with the system and selected predictors.

Results:  Most users were satisfied with their experience. Multivariate logistic regression found perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, and trust to be significantly associated with high satisfaction. Satisfaction was not related to computer experience or risk behaviour status.

Conclusions:  Adolescent patients, even those at risk, accept computer‐assisted screening in primary care.
A Standard Lexicon for Biodiversity Conservation: Unified Classifications of Threats and Actions
Authors: SALAFSKY NICK , SALZER DANIEL , STATTERSFIELD ALISON J. , HILTON‐TAYLOR CRAIG , NEUGARTEN RACHEL , BUTCHART STUART H. M. , COLLEN BEN , COX NEIL , MASTER LAWRENCE L. , O'CONNOR SHEILA , WILKIE DAVID
Published: June 2008

Abstract:  An essential foundation of any science is a standard lexicon. Any given conservation project can be described in terms of the biodiversity targets, direct threats, contributing factors at the project site, and the conservation actions that the project team is employing to change the situation. These common elements can be linked in a causal chain, which represents a theory of change about how the conservation actions are intended to bring about desired project outcomes. If project teams want to describe and share their work and learn from one another, they need a standard and precise lexicon to specifically describe each node along this chain. To date, there have been several independent efforts to develop standard classifications for the direct threats that affect biodiversity and the conservation actions required to counteract these threats. Recognizing that it is far more effective to have only one accepted global scheme, we merged these separate efforts into unified classifications of threats and actions, which we present here. Each classification is a hierarchical listing of terms and associated definitions. The classifications are comprehensive and exclusive at the upper levels of the hierarchy, expandable at the lower levels, and simple, consistent, and scalable at all levels. We tested these classifications by applying them post hoc to 1191 threatened bird species and 737 conservation projects. Almost all threats and actions could be assigned to the new classification systems, save for some cases lacking detailed information. Furthermore, the new classification systems provided an improved way of analyzing and comparing information across projects when compared with earlier systems. We believe that widespread adoption of these classifications will help practitioners more systematically identify threats and appropriate actions, managers to more efficiently set priorities and allocate resources, and most important, facilitate cross‐project learning and the development of a systematic science of conservation.
PRES Following Administration of DHE in a Patient With Unsuspected Pheochromocytoma
Authors: Kelley Brendan J. , Samples Stephen , Kunkel Robert
Published: June 2008

We describe neurological complications which manifested after a patient with unsuspected pheochromocytoma was administered dihydroergotamine. Following administration of dihydroergotamine, the patient developed Balint syndrome, with the appearance of symmetric, bilateral occipital signal change on magnetic resonance imaging suggestive of posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome.
Participation in Activity and Risk for Incident Delirium
Authors: Yang Frances M. , Inouye Sharon K. , Fearing Michael A. , Kiely Dan K. , Marcantonio Edward R. , Jones Richard N.
Published: June 2008

OBJECTIVES: To examine the mediating role between educational attainment and risk for incidence delirium of activity participation and to examine the contribution of participation in specific activities to the development of delirium.

DESIGN: Prospective cohort study.

SETTING: Urban teaching hospital in New Haven, Connecticut.

PARTICIPANTS: Participants were drawn from two prospective cohort studies of 779 newly hospitalized patients aged 70 and older without dementia.

MEASUREMENTS: The main outcome was delirium, measured using the full Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) algorithm, which consisted of acute onset and fluctuating course, inattention, and disorganized thinking or altered level of consciousness, as rated by trained clinical interviewers.

RESULTS: Bivariable results indicated a significant relationship between education and the development of delirium (odds ratio (OR)=0.92, 95% confidence interval (CI)=0.88–0.97) and between activity and delirium (OR= 0.60, 95% CI=0.46–0.79). In multivariable analysis, activity mediated the relationship between education and risk for delirium. Considering each activity separately, multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that regular exercise significantly lowered the risk for developing delirium (OR=0.76, 95% CI=0.60–0.96).

CONCLUSION: In older persons without dementia, activity participation before hospitalization is a mediator between education and incidence of delirium. Specifically, it was found that participation in regular exercise was found to be significantly protective against delirium.
Fracture Force, Deflection, and Toughness of Acrylic Denture Repairs Involving Glass Fiber Reinforcement
Authors: Kostoulas Ioannis , Kavoura Victoria T. , Frangou Mary J. , Polyzois Gregory L.
Published: June 2008

Purpose: Fractures in acrylic resin dentures occur quite often in the practice of prosthodontics. A durable repairing system for denture base fracture is desired to avoid recurrent fracture. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the fracture force, deflection, and toughness of a heat‐polymerized denture base resin repaired with autopolymerized resin alone (C), visible light‐polymerizing resin (VLC), or autopolymerizing resin reinforced with unidirectional (Stick) (MA‐FS) and woven glass fibers (StickNet) (MA‐SN). Another group was repaired with autopolymerized resin after wetting the repair site with methyl methacrylate (MA‐MMA) for 180 seconds. A group of intact specimens was used as control.

Materials and Methods: Heat‐polymerizing acrylic resin was used to fabricate the specimens. The specimens (10 per group) were sectioned in half, reassembled with a 3‐mm butt‐joint gap, and repaired. A cavity was included when glass fibers were used. Three‐point bending was used to test the repaired site, and data were analyzed with one‐way ANOVA and the Tukey's post hoc test (α≤ 0.05).

Results: Fracture force, deflection, and toughness for the repaired groups without reinforcement (MA: 46.7 ± 8.6 N, 2.6 ± 0.3 mm, 0.08 ± 0.001 J; MA‐MMA: 41.0 ± 7.2 N, 2.7 ± 0.4 mm, 0.07 ± 0.002 J) were significantly lower (p < 0.05) than the control group (C: 78.6 ± 9.6 N, 5.9 ± 0.4 mm, 0.27 ± 0.003 J). Repair with visible light‐polymerizing resin (VLC, 15.0 ± 4.0 N, 1.2 ± 0.4 mm, 0.02 ± 0.0001 J) resulted in significant reduction of mechanical properties (p < 0.05). Reinforcement with glass fibers restored (MA‐SN: 75.8 ± 9.2 N) or increased (MA‐FS: 124.4 ± 12.5 N) the original strength.

Conclusion: The most effective repair method was the use of autopolymerized resin reinforced with unidirectional glass fibers.
Effect of Different Exposure Times on Microwave Irradiation on the Disinfection of a Hard Chairside Reline Resin
Authors: Mima Ewerton G. , Pavarina Ana Claudia , Neppelenbroek Karin Hermana , Vergani Carlos Eduardo , Spolidorio Denise Madalena P. , Machado Ana Lucia
Published: June 2008

Purpose: This study evaluated the effectiveness of different exposure times of microwave irradiation on the disinfection of a hard chairside reline resin.

Materials and Methods: Sterile specimens were individually inoculated with one of the tested microorganisms (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans, and Bacillus subtilis) and incubated for 24 hours at 37°C. For each microorganism, 10 specimens were not microwaved (control), and 50 specimens were microwaved. Control specimens were individually immersed in sterile saline, and replicate aliquots of serial dilutions were plated on selective media appropriate for each organism. Irradiated specimens were immersed in water and microwaved at 650 W for 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 minutes before serial dilutions and platings. After 48 hours of incubation, colonies on plates were counted. Irradiated specimens were also incubated for 7 days. Some specimens were prepared for scanning electron microscopic (SEM) analysis.

Results: Specimens irradiated for 3, 4, and 5 minutes showed sterilization. After 2 minutes of irradiation, specimens inoculated with C. albicans were sterilized, whereas those inoculated with bacteria were disinfected. One minute of irradiation resulted in growth of all microorganisms. SEM examination indicated alteration in cell morphology of sterilized specimens. The effectiveness of microwave irradiation was improved as the exposure time increased.

Conclusion: This study suggests that 3 minutes of microwave irradiation can be used for acrylic resin sterilization, thus preventing cross‐contamination.
A New Retrieval System for Cement‐Retained Implant Superstructures: A Technical Report
Authors: Ichikawa Tetsuo , Ishida Osamu , Watanabe Megumi , Tomotake Yoritoi , Wei Hua , Jianrong Chen
Published: June 2008

This article discusses two methods for improving the retrievability of cement‐retained implant superstructures. One method involves incorporating a removal screw in the superstructure and the second method uses a small dimple on the abutment, accessed through a vent in the superstructure.
Transcutaneous Tibial Implants: A Surgical Procedure for Restoring Ambulation After Amputation of the Distal Aspect of the Tibia in a Dog
Authors: DRYGAS KEVIN A. , TAYLOR ROBERT , SIDEBOTHAM CHRISTOPHER G. , HUGATE RONALD R. , MCALEXANDER HEATHER
Published: June 2008

Objective— To report surgical planning, technique, and long‐term outcome of custom transcutaneous tibial implants used to restore ambulation after bilateral pelvic limb amputation in a dog.

Study Design— Case report.

Animals— A 4‐year‐old, 25.5 kg, female spayed, Siberian Husky.

Methods— Computed tomographic scans of the pelvic limbs were used to build sterolithographic models of the remaining tibia after bilateral amputation of the distal aspect of the tibiae. The sterolithographic models facilitated fabrication of implants that would replace the missing distal segments of the tibiae. Custom implants were surgically placed in both limbs.

Results— Assisted ambulation was restored immediately postoperatively and unassisted locomotion occurred at 7 days. At 14 months, aseptic loosening of the right implant occurred, it was removed and a 2nd transcutaneous implant was fabricated and implanted. At 26 months after initial surgery and 17 months after revision of the right implant, function is restored at a walk, trot, and run.

Conclusion— Based on over a 2‐year follow‐up, transcutaneous tibial implants allowed for restoration of locomotion.

Clinical Relevance— Transcutaneous tibial implants offer a potentially viable treatment option for restoring ambulation after amputation of the distal aspect of the tibiae in the dog.