bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Relevance of Politically Relevant Dyads in the Study of Interdependence and Dyadic Disputes
Authors: Benson Michelle A.
Published: June 2007

The role of dyadic trade dependence in reducing conflict has been a subject of some dispute in the recent literature. Liberals have presented strong evidence that a higher level of trade dependence leads to lower probabilities of dyadic disputes, while an equally compelling literature has generated evidence that elevated levels of trade dependence generally increase the likelihood of disputes, or that dependence only decreases the likelihood of conflict for certain pairs of states under specific conditions. Unfortunately, the direct comparison of these competing perspectives has been hindered by the use of different estimation techniques, variable measurements, data sets, and samples. While recent work has attempted to provide a more systematic analysis of the effect of different data sets and sample choices on the relationship between interdependence and conflict (Schneider, Barbieri, & Gleditsch, 2003), no theoretical reason has been put forward as to why estimation results for some samples should differ from others. This paper employs three different data sets (Russett & Oneal, 2001; Barbieri, 2002; and Gleditsch, 2002) to test the effects of sample choice, especially that of politically relevant dyads, on the relationship between interdependence and conflict. Following Polachek, Robst, and Chang (1999) I note that the gains from trade are not homogeneous across dyad type; thus, the use of a politically relevant sample leads to biased estimates of the relationship between trade and conflict. Using a model that has been found to be critical of the liberal perspective (Barbieri, 2002), the results show that trade dependence does not have the same impact on conflict for dyads of different sizes. In sum, dyads with larger economies and high levels of trade salience have lower probabilities of conflict than dyads with smaller economies and equivalent amounts of trade.
Risk Analysis of Blood Glucose Data: A Quantitative Approach to Optimizing the Control of Insulin Dependent Diabetes
Authors: Kovatchev Boris P. , Straume Martin , Cox Daniel J. , Farhy Leon S.
Published: June 2007

Patients with Insulin‐Dependent Diabetes are continuously involved in a clinical optimization process: to maintain strict glycemic control without increasing their risk for hypoglycemia. This study offers quantitative tools for on‐line assessment of the quality of this optimization, based on self‐monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG). Ninety‐six adults with Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus (IDDM), age 35 ± 8 yrs., duration of diabetes 16 ± 10 yrs., HbAlc 8.6 ± 1.8%, 43 of whom had a recent history of severe hypoglycemia (SH), while 53 did not, used Lifescan One Touch II meters for 135 ± 53 SMBG readings over a month. For the following six months the subjects recorded occurrence of SH. The two patient groups, with and without a history of SH, did not differ in age, duration of diabetes, HbAlc, insulin units/day, average BG or BG variability. We suggest a computational procedure based on a symmetrization of the BG measurement scale and on a superimposed BG risk function, that allows for computation of two glycemic control markers: the Low BG Index (LBGI) and the High BG Index (HBGI). The LBGI is associated with SH: the LBGI and the rate of change of the BG risk, classified correctly 77% of the subjects with vs. without a history of SH and accounted for 46% of the variance of future SH. The HBGI, in combination with age, duration of diabetes and daily insulin dose, accounted for 57% of the variance of patients′ glycosylated hemoglobin. We conclude that the LBGI and the HBGI are accurate on‐line SMBG measures for patients′ glycemic control.
When the ‘Rot’ Set In: Education and research, 1960–75
Authors: Nisbet John
Published: June 2007

ABSTRACT Prior to 1960, educational research and development in Britain was relatively small‐scale. In the period reviewed, public funding expanded at an unprecedented rate, until research became an integral part of administration and policy. Government control over research grew as a consequence of increased funding. In the 1960s autonomy of research was seen as a bulwark of democracy, but by 1975 this claim had been set aside. The article reviews this shift of attitude through quotations from speeches and publications, reminding us of principles once held to be important.
Cannabis and psychosis in acute psychiatric admissions
Authors: Grace Robert F. , Shenfield Gillian , Tennant Christopher
Published: June 2007

This study assessed the duration of admission and time to relapse in 62 acute psychiatric in‐patients who had urinary drug screens performed because of suspicion of illicit drug use. Some 51% of those with psychosis (n = 45) and 29% of those with non‐psychotic illness (n = 17) were THC‐positive although this was not significant. In those with recurrent admissions for psychosis tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)‐positive subjects were significantly younger. The duration of admission was 7 days shorter in the THC‐positive group but this was not significant. Their duration since last admission (rapidity of relapse) was 10 months versus 33 months which was significant.
Criminal justice perspectives on South Australia's Cannabis Expiation Notice procedures
Authors: Sutton Adam , McMillan Elizabeth
Published: June 2007

South Australia's Cannabis Expiation Notice (CEN) scheme, introduced in 1987, enabled adults possessing, cultivating or using small amounts of cannabis in private to avoid formal prosecution and the possible conviction by paying an expiation fee. The system attracted considerable criticism when first introduced. Some in the criminal justice sector thought the approach would prove unworkable. The paper summarizes a 1997 study of criminal justice attitudes toward the CEN system. Data were collected from 50 people via one‐to‐one interviews and focus‐group discussions. Most respondents were from South Australia Police, but members of the judiciary and representatives of other government departments were also interviewed. Overall, this research indicated that the criminal justice sector was satisfied with expiation and saw no need to revert to prosecution of minor cannabis offenders. Drug Task Force and other detectives were concerned, however, about the provision for up to 10 plants in cultivation being expiable. They produced evidence that individuals and groups were exploiting this provision in order to grow cannabis commercially. Shortly after there search was completed, South Australia's government closed the apparent loophole, by reducing the expiable number of plants to three. The authors argue that other approaches could also have been adopted by policymakers, to undermine organized crime's grip over cannabis production and distribution.
Validity and reliability of the Severity of Dependence Scale (SDS) in a Brazilian sample of drug users
Authors: FERRI CLEUSA P. , MARSDEN JOHN , DE ARAUJO MARCELO , LARANJEIRA RONALDO R. , GOSSOP MICHAEL
Published: June 2007

The Severity of Dependence Scale (SDS) is a short, five‐item scale which provides a measure of degree of dependence upon different drugs. The present study explores the validity and reliability of a Portuguese version of the instrument with a sample of 374 Brazilian drug users. Concurrent validity of the SDS was assessed in relation to reported quantity of drugs used and to DSM‐IV dependence items, and test‐retest reliability was assessed with a subsample of 42 subjects. The SDS total scores for powder cocaine, crack cocaine, cannabis and alcohol were significantly and highly positively correlated with severity of dependence as measured by DSM‐IV, and with the estimated quantity of drugs used in the last month. Test‐retest coefficients were high for all drugs studied. Principal components analysis showed that the SDS scores lie on a single dimension with the exception of crack cocaine where scores lie on a single dimension for treatment attenders and on two dimensions for community samples. The results indicate that the Portuguese version of the SDS is a valid research tool for measuring severity of dependence upon powder cocaine (snorted), crack cocaine (smoked), cannabis and alcohol.
The use of Rapid Assessment Methodology (RAM) for investigating illicit drug use: a South Australian experience
Authors: VINCENT NIKI , ALLSOP STEVE , SHOOBRIDGE JODIE
Published: June 2007

This paper describes a research methodology, combining qualitative and quantitative tools, which has been used to investigate patterns of illicit amphetamine use and associated hazards and harms in both urban and rural areas in South Australia. The Rapid Assessment Methodology (RAM) used in this research involved extensive consultation with key informants, an analysis of pre‐existing quantitative data (indicator data), a survey of current amphetamine users and focus group discussions with amphetamine users and clinicians, carried out within a 4‐month period using minimal staff. The results have been used to inform the development of an intervention programme to respond to hazardous and harmful use of amphetamines. An overview of RAM, and a detailed description and discussion of the model used in the South Australian study, are provided.
Use of sediment quality guidelines in ecological risk assessment of dredged materials: Preliminary reflections
Authors: Babut M. P. , Garric J. , Camusso M. , den Besten P. J.
Published: June 2007

Ecological risk assessment appears as an useful approach for dredged materials. It is often proposed in the form of a tiered approach, the first tier relying upon a chemical characterisation of sediments, and a simplified risk assessment based on sediment quality guidelines. A recently proposed tiered framework, relying upon published sediment quality guidelines and a mean quotient approach at the first tier, is tested against two databases: one including bioassays results and chemicals concentrations of contaminated and non-contaminated sediments; and the second chemical concentrations in sediments from two French regions. The selected sediment quality guidelines seem reliable, as the incidence of type I and type II errors remain in accordance with their definitions. However, the relevance of this statement is somewhat limited by the size of the database used. Moreover, geochemistry may play a confusing role for some metals like Ni and Cr. The cut-off values initially proposed for the first tier appear questionable: the lower boundary allows discarding of a low proportion of sediment samples in the chemicals only database, and toxicity may be observed below this value. Conversely, the upper boundary value may be considered as too low, as a significant proportion of non-toxic samples may be observed above this value, and as a large number of sites in the chemicals only database would enter higher tiers of the framework. Further tests and development are needed with an extended database.
A Na+ Channel Mutation Linked to Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis Exposes a Proton-selective Gating Pore
Authors: Struyk Arie F. , Cannon Stephen C.
Published: June 2007

The heritable muscle disorder hypokalemic periodic paralysis (HypoPP) is characterized by attacks of flaccid weakness, brought on by sustained sarcolemmal depolarization. HypoPP is genetically linked to missense mutations at charged residues in the S4 voltage-sensing segments of either CaV1.1 (the skeletal muscle L-type Ca2+ channel) or NaV1.4 (the skeletal muscle voltage-gated Na+ channel). Although these mutations alter the gating of both channels, these functional defects have proven insufficient to explain the sarcolemmal depolarization in affected muscle. Recent insight into the topology of the S4 voltage-sensing domain has aroused interest in an alternative pathomechanism, wherein HypoPP mutations might generate an aberrant ionic leak conductance by unblocking the putative aqueous crevice (“gating-pore”) in which the S4 segment resides. We tested the rat isoform of NaV1.4 harboring the HypoPP mutation R663H (human R669H ortholog) at the outermost arginine of S4 in domain II for a gating-pore conductance. We found that the mutation R663H permits transmembrane permeation of protons, but not larger cations, similar to the conductance displayed by histidine substitution at Shaker K+ channel S4 sites. These results are consistent with the notion that the outermost charged residue in the DIIS4 segment is simultaneously accessible to the cytoplasmic and extracellular spaces when the voltage sensor is positioned inwardly. The predicted magnitude of this proton leak in mature skeletal muscle is small relative to the resting K+ and Cl− conductances, and is thus not likely to fully account for the aberrant sarcolemmal depolarization underlying the paralytic attacks. Rather, it is possible that a sustained proton leak may contribute to instability of VREST indirectly, for instance, by interfering with intracellular pH homeostasis.
Life's a beach: lessons from the Earth's rarest sedimentary rocks
Authors: Sheppard T. Huw
Published: June 2007

Ancient rockshore deposits are the rarest sedimentary rocks on Earth. Less than 200 examples span the planet's entire history, but they preserve important records of past environments, including sea‐level changes and unusual fossil communities. The most celebrated example, dating from the earliest Jurassic, is found at Ogmore‐by‐Sea in South Wales. This article describes the history of environmental change at Ogmore, and why these rocks can help us to interpret the deposits of ancient rocky shores world‐wide.
The prognostic value of two different histopathological scoring systems for adrenocortical carcinomas
Authors: Van't Sant H P , Bouvy N D , Kazemier G , Bonjer H J , Hop W C J , Feelders R A , De Herder W W , De Krijger R R
Published: June 2007

Aims:  To compare two different multiparameter histopathological scoring indices and determine their prognostic value in patients presenting with adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC).

Methods and results:  Seventy‐nine adrenal cortical tumours were divided into adenomas (n = 17), non‐metastatic carcinomas (n = 24) and carcinomas with metastatic disease and/or local recurrence during follow‐up (n = 19) or at time of presentation (n = 19). All cases were scored according to the Weiss revisited index (WRI) and the Van Slooten index (VSI). Both scoring indices yielded a significantly different score (P < 0.005) between adenomas and carcinomas. Non‐metastasized carcinomas had a lower score with both indices compared with carcinomas with metastases at the time of presentation (VSI, P = 0.017; WRI, P = 0.019). The VSI also distinguished ACC that had metastasized at any time from those that had not (P = 0.015). Cancer‐specific survival in patients with metastasized ACC correlated with the scores for both indices (VSI, P = 0.0078; WRI, P = 0.0025). Time from diagnosis of ACC to development of metastatic disease was correlated with the WRI (P = 0.036, r = −0.350).

Conclusions:  The VSI and the WRI have equal validity in the correct categorization of ACC and adenomas. Furthermore, both indices show a correlation with survival for metastasizing ACC.
Impact of methane seeps on the local carbon‐isotope record: a case study from a Late Jurassic hemipelagic section
Authors: Louis‐Schmid Beat , Rais Pauline , Logvinovich Dmitry , Bernasconi Stefano M. , Weissert Helmut
Published: June 2007

An Oxfordian (Late Jurassic) hemipelagic succession from Beauvoisin (SE France) contains a pronounced, short‐lived negative excursion in the bulk‐carbonate carbon‐isotope record, with an amplitude of 4‰. It was shown previously that the Beauvoisin paleoenvironment was impacted by hydrocarbon seepage. New isotopic data corroborate that methane was a significant constituent of these hydrocarbons. The negative excursion was caused by transient enhanced precipitation of 13C‐depleted carbonate, mediated by anaerobic oxidation of methane. Despite its local diagenetic origin, the Beauvoisin excursion is similar in shape and duration to globally recognized negative C‐isotope excursions that have been related to catastrophic, massive dissociation of methane hydrate. Shape and duration of negative excursions therefore cannot be used as an argument when determining their origin if they have not been shown to represent a global perturbation of the carbon cycle.
Restless legs syndrome is frequently overlooked in patients being evaluated for polyneuropathies
Authors: Nineb A. , Rosso C. , Dumurgier J. , Nordine T. , Lefaucheur J.‐P. , Créange A.
Published: June 2007

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) often presents with paresthesias and dysesthesisas. We have investigated the prevalence and clinical features of RLS in a cohort of patients referred for clinical suspicion of peripheral neuropathy (PN). Sixty‐four patients with sensory symptoms, and 101 age‐matched controls were prospectively evaluated for RLS, PN and causes of both conditions. In the 64 patients (60 ± 14 years), none were referred with a suspicion of RLS. Forty‐one had a sensori‐motor PN of which 22 had a definite RLS (54%). When excluding other causes of RLS, 8 of 41 patients had a RLS associated with a neuropathy (20%). The proportion of RLS in the healthy controls was 10%, lower than in the cohort of patients. In patients without PN, 57% had a RLS, and 55% in the whole cohort, a higher proportion than in the healthy controls (P < 0.0001). Patients with PN and RLS had more sleep disorders (P < 0.04), and legs and calves symptoms (P = 0.09) than patients with PN without RLS. Toes symptoms were more frequently observed in patients with PN but without RLS (P < 0.02). We conclude that RLS frequently presents with symptoms suggestive of peripheral neuropathy, and therefore, is often overlooked.
Teaching & Learning Guide for: The Origins of English Puritanism
Authors: Gunther Karl
Published: June 2007

Author’s Introduction

This essay makes the familiar observation that when one part of an historiography changes, so must other parts. Here the author observes that the phenomenon known as puritanism has dramatically changed meanings over the past quarter century, though the change has focused on the Elizabethan and early Stuart periods. He asks that we consider the impact of that change on the earlier period, when puritanism in England had its origins.

Focus Questions

Why is the author unable to posit an answer to his question?

If new study of the origins of puritanism were to reveal that it was not a mainstream Calvinist movement, but a radical critique of the Henrician and early Elizabethan church, how would that affect the new orthodoxy in Puritan studies?

Author Recommends

* A. G. Dickens, The English Reformation (Batsford, 1989).

The starting place for all modern discussions of the English Reformation and the origins of both conservative and radical protestantism in England. Dicken’s view is that the reformation was a mixture of German ideas, English attitudes, and royal leadership.

* Eamon Duffy, The Stripping of the Altars: Traditional Religion in England c.1400–1580 (Yale Univeristy Press, 2005).

What was it that the Reformation reformed? In order to understand early English protestantism, one needs to see it within the context of Catholicism. Eamon Duffy rejects the narrative of the Catholic church told by Protestant reformers and demonstrates the ruthlessness of the reformation.

* Ethan Shagen, Popular Politics and the English Reformation (Cambridge University Press, 2003).

Shagan asks the question, how is a conservative population energized to undertake the overthrow of their customs and beliefs? He too is centrally concerned with the issue of how radical was the English Reformation.

* Brad Gregory, Salvation at Stake: Christian Martyrdom in Early Modern Europe (Harvard University Press, 1999).

Nothing better expressed the radicalism of religious belief than the dual process of martyrdom, the willingness of the established religion to make martyrs of its enemies and of dissendents to be martyrs to their cause. Gregory explores this phenomenon across the confessional divide and comes to surprising conclusions about similarities and differences.

Online Materials

1. Puritan Studies on the Web

http://puritanism.online.fr

A site of resources for studies of Puritanism, this contains a large number of primary sources and links to other source sites. The Link to the English Reformation is particularly useful.

2. The Royal Historical Society Bibliography

http://www.rhs.ac.uk/bibl/dataset.asp

The bibliography of the Royal Historical Society contains a complete listing of articles and books on all aspects of British history. Subject searches for Puritanism or the English Reformation will yield hundreds of works to choose from.
Anti‐CeHV1 antibodies of two cynomolgus macaques cross‐react with HSV2 but not HSV1 antigens in ELISA
Authors: Coutrot Edwin , Blancher‐Sardou Marie , Blancher Antoine
Published: June 2007

Background  The aim of the study was to compare the cross‐reactivity of macaque anti‐CeHV1 antibodies with type 1 and type 2 human herpes simplex viruses (HSV1 and HSV2).

Methods  We studied the serum of 344 animals which had been tested either positive (n = 39) or negative (n = 305) for the presence of CeHV1 antibodies by expert laboratories. Macaque serums were studied by means of two ELISA: one based on HSV1 antigen‐coated wells, the other on polystyrene beads coated with HSV1 and HSV2 antigens in approximately equal proportions.

Results  In the serum of two animals originating from Vietnam, we found anti‐CeHV1 antibodies cross‐reacting with HSV2 but not with HSV1 antigens. For the serum with the highest titer, inhibition by soluble antigens confirmed the high affinity of the antibodies for HSV2 antigens.

Conclusions  Tests using HSV1 and HSV2 in a combined way are better suited to macaque screening than tests using only HSV1 antigens.
A Pilot Study of Distraction for Adolescents During Allergy Testing
Authors: Jeffs Debra Ann
Published: June 2007

PURPOSE.  This pilot study describes pain and anxiety associated with allergy testing; tests distraction, specifically self‐selected distraction; and examines the relationship between pain, anxiety, and engagement with distraction.

DESIGN AND METHODS.  An experimental design was used with a convenience sample of 32 adolescents from an allergist's office randomly assigned to three groups. Pain was measured by the adolescent pediatric pain tool (APPT) and FACES scale.

RESULTS.  No differences in pain ratings were found among the groups. Less pain was associated with lower anxiety and greater engagement with distraction. Greater engagement with distraction occurred with less anxiety.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS.  Knowledge about allergy testing pain, anxiety, and engagement with distraction can assist nurses in preparing adolescents for this procedure.
Temporal Stability of Carreau Fluid Flow Down an Incline
Authors: Rousset F. , Millet S. , Botton V. , Ben Hadid H.
Published: June 2007

This paper deals with the temporal stability of a Carreau fluid flow down an inclined plane. As a first step, a weakly non-Newtonian behavior is considered in the limit of very long waves. It is found that the critical Reynolds number is lower for shear-thinning fluids than for Newtonian fluids, while the celerity is larger. In a second step, the general case is studied numerically. Particular attention is paid to small angles of inclination for which either surface or shear modes can arise. It is shown that shear dependency can change the nature of instability.
Dynamics and Intensity of Erosive Partial Cavitation
Authors: Escaler Xavier , Farhat Mohamed , Egusquiza Eduard , Avellan François
Published: June 2007

An experimental work has been carried out to investigate the dynamic behavior and the intensity of erosive partial cavitation on a 2-D hydrofoil. Both sheet (stable) and cloud (unstable) cavitation have been tested in a cavitation tunnel for various free stream velocities. Special attention has been given to validate the use of acceleration transducers for studying the physical process. In particular, the modulation in amplitude of the cavitation induced vibrations in a high frequency band has allowed us to determine the shedding frequency and the relative intensity of the collapse process for each testing condition. Regarding the cavity dynamics, a typical Strouhal value based on its length of about 0.28 has been found for cloud cavitation; meanwhile, for sheet cavitation, it presents a value of about 0.16. Furthermore, the level of the vibration modulation in the band from 45kHz to 50kHz for cloud cavitation shows a power law dependency on the free stream velocity as well as a good correlation with the pitting rate measured on stainless steel samples mounted on the hydrofoil.
ACHIEVING SUPERIOR INTERNATIONALIZATION THROUGH STRATEGIC AMBIDEXTERITY
Authors: HAN MARY
Published: June 2007

In this paper, I examine the optimal approach to internationalization. Drawing from the ambidexterity literature, I build on the concept of structural ambidexterity and suggest that the optimal approach occurs when firms pursue 'strategic ambidexterity,' which is characterized by simultaneously executing paradoxical strategies of pro-profit and pro-growth. I examine this approach through empirical study based on in-depth field research of two cases: Merrill Lynch, a multinational enterprise and Comdirect Bank, an international new venture. I find that a) firms that pursue strategic ambidexterity in their internationalization effort achieve above-average internationalization performance in the short term; and b) firms that pursue strategic ambidexterity in their internationalization effort also achieve above-average firm-level performance in the long term. I conclude that strategic ambidexterity is the optimal strategy by which to achieve superior performance.
Mechanisms Regulating Epithelial Stratification
Authors: Koster Maranke I. , Roop Dennis R.
Published: June 2007

The epidermis is a stratified epithelium that functions as a barrier protecting the organism from dehydration, mechanical trauma, and microbial insults. This barrier function is established during embryogenesis through a complex and tightly controlled stratification program. Whereas the morphological changes that occur during epidermal development have been extensively studied, the molecular mechanisms that govern this process remain poorly understood. In this review we summarize the current advances that have been made in understanding the molecular mechanisms that regulate epidermal morphogenesis.
Penetration of Nonenveloped Viruses into the Cytoplasm
Authors: Tsai Billy
Published: June 2007

Although the precise mechanism by which nonenveloped viruses penetrate biological membranes is unclear, a more coherent understanding of this process is starting to emerge. To initiate membrane penetration, nonenveloped viruses engage host cell factors that impart conformational changes on the viral particles, resulting in the exposure of a hydrophobic moiety or the release of a lytic factor. The viruses' interactions with the limiting membrane subsequently compromise the bilayer integrity. This reaction presumably perforates the bilayer to enable the virus to cross the membrane and reach the cytosol. Valuable insights into this process can be gleaned from the membrane transport mechanisms of enveloped viruses and bacterial toxins. To identify systematically the cellular components that facilitate nonenveloped virus membrane penetration, sensitive assays that monitor the transport event directly must first be established. Moreover, higher-resolution structures of penetration intermediates, particularly those solved in complex with membranes, would provide important molecular details into this process.
Transcriptional Control of Wound Repair
Authors: Schäfer Matthias , Werner Sabine
Published: June 2007

Injury to the skin initiates a complex process of events involving inflammation as well as the formation and remodeling of new tissue. These processes result in at least partial reconstitution of the injured skin. However, wounds in adult mammals heal with a scar, which is accompanied by functional and aesthetic impairments. In addition to this problem, a large number of patients, in particular in the aged population, suffer from chronic, nonhealing ulcers. Therefore, there is a strong need to improve the wound healing process. This requires a thorough understanding of the underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms. During the past several years, important regulators of the wound healing process have been identified. In particular, the growth factors and matrix proteins, which orchestrate skin repair, have been characterized in detail. By contrast, much less is known about the transcription factors, which regulate gene expression at the wound site. This review summarizes recent data on the expression of transcription factors in skin wounds and their functions in the repair process.
Three-Dimensional Atom-Probe Tomography: Advances and Applications
Authors: Seidman David N.
Published: June 2007

This review presents the historical temporal evolution of an atom-probe tomograph (APT) from its genesis (1973) from field-ion microscope images of individual tungsten atoms (1955). The capabilities of modern APTs employing either electrical or laser pulsing are discussed. The results of the application of APTs to specific materials science problems are presented for research performed at Northwestern University on the following problems: (a) the segregation of Mg at α-Al/Al3Sc heterophase interfaces, (b) phase decomposition in ternary Ni-Al-Cr and quaternary Ni-Al-Cr-Re alloys, and (c) 3-D nanoscale composition mapping of an InAs semiconductor nanowire whose growth was catalyzed by gold. These results demonstrate that it is now possible to obtain highly quantitative information from APT that can be compared with modeling, theory, simulations, and/or first-principles calculations.
Spiral Magnets as Magnetoelectrics
Authors: Kimura T.
Published: June 2007

Magnetoelectric multiferroics is an old but emerging class of materials that combine coupled electric and magnetic dipole order. In these materials, ferroelectric and magnetic (ferromagnetic or antiferromagnetic) states coexist or compete with each other. The interaction leads to a so-called magnetoelectric effect, which is the induction of magnetization by an electric field or electric polarization by a magnetic field. In the past few years, a new set of magnetoelectric multiferroics such as TbMnO3 and Ni3V2O8 has been discovered. In these magnetoelectric multiferroics, ferroelectric order develops upon a magnetic phase transition into a spiral magnetic ordered phase. In addition, these systems show large magnetoelectric effects accompanied by metamagnetic transitions. Noncollinear spiral magnetism is the key to understanding the magnetoelectric properties in these systems. Here I discuss the magnetoelectric coupling in spiral magnets and review recent advances in the understanding of ferroelectricity and the magnetoelectric effect in these new multiferroics. The studies presented here indicate that spiral magnets are promising candidates for magnetoelectrics showing large magnetoelectric effects at low magnetic fields.
As the Worm Turns: The Earthworm Gut as a Transient Habitat for Soil Microbial Biomes
Authors: Drake Harold L. , Horn Marcus A.
Published: June 2007

The gut of the earthworm constitutes a mobile anoxic microzone to which the microorganisms of aerated soils are subjected. During gut passage, the in situ factors of the earthworm gut, which include anoxia and high concentrations of organic substrates, appear to greatly stimulate a subset of ingested soil microorganisms, including denitrifying and fermentative bacteria. The selective stimulation of ingested soil microbes by the unique microconditions of the earthworm gut (a) results in the in vivo emission of denitrification-derived dinitrogen (N2) and the greenhouse gas nitrous oxide (N2O) by the earthworm, and (b) might affect the fitness, culturability, and diversity of certain members of soil microbial biomes. These observations illustrate the impact that soil macrofauna might have on terrestrial nitrogen cycle processes via their transient hosting of ingested prokaryotes.
Structure, Assembly, and Function of the Spore Surface Layers
Authors: Henriques Adriano O. , Moran, Jr. Charles P.
Published: June 2007

Endospores formed by Bacillus, Clostridia, and related genera are encased in a protein shell called the coat. In many species, including B. subtilis, the coat is the outermost spore structure, and in other species, such as the pathogenic organisms B. anthracis and B. cereus, the spore is encased in an additional layer called the exosporium. Both the coat and the exosporium have roles in protection of the spore and in its environmental interactions. Assembly of both structures is a function of the mother cell, one of two cellular compartments of the developing sporangium. Studies in B. subtilis have revealed that the timing of coat protein production, the guiding role of a small group of morphogenetic proteins, and several types of posttranslational modifications are essential for the fidelity of the assembly process. Assembly of the exosporium requires a set of novel proteins as well as homologues of proteins found in the outermost layers of the coat and of some of the coat morphogenetic factors, suggesting that the exosporium is a more specialized structure of a multifunctional coat. These and other insights into the molecular details of spore surface morphogenesis provide avenues for exploitation of the spore surface layers in applications for biotechnology and medicine.
Biogenesis of the Gram-Negative Bacterial Outer Membrane
Authors: Bos Martine P. , Robert Viviane , Tommassen Jan
Published: June 2007

The cell envelope of gram-negative bacteria consists of two membranes, the inner and the outer membrane, that are separated by the periplasm. The outer membrane consists of phospholipids, lipopolysaccharides, integral membrane proteins, and lipoproteins. These components are synthesized in the cytoplasm or at the inner leaflet of the inner membrane and have to be transported across the inner membrane and through the periplasm to assemble eventually in the correct membrane. Recent studies in Neisseria meningitidis and Escherichia coli have led to the identification of several machineries implicated in these transport and assembly processes.
Biofilm Formation by Plant-Associated Bacteria
Authors: Danhorn Thomas , Fuqua Clay
Published: June 2007

Plants support a diverse array of bacteria, including parasites, mutualists, and commensals on and around their roots, in the vasculature, and on aerial tissues. These microbes have a profound influence on plant health and productivity. Bacteria physically interact with surfaces to form complex multicellular and often multispecies assemblies, including biofilms and smaller aggregates. There is growing appreciation that the intensity, duration, and outcome of plant-microbe interactions are significantly influenced by the conformation of adherent microbial populations. Biofilms on different tissues have unique properties, reflecting the prevailing conditions at those sites. Attachment is required for biofilm formation, and bacteria interact with plant tissues through adhesins including polysaccharides and surface proteins, with initial contact often mediated by active motility. Recognition between lectins and their cognate carbohydrates is a common means of specificity. Biofilm development and the resulting intimate interactions with plants often require cell-cell communication between colonizing bacteria.
The Mechanism of Isoniazid Killing: Clarity Through the Scope of Genetics
Authors: Vilchèze Catherine , Jacobs, Jr. William R.
Published: June 2007

Isoniazid (INH) is one of the most efficient drugs for the treatment of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infections. Despite its rather simple chemical structure, the mechanism by which INH kills M. tuberculosis is complex. A full understanding of the mechanisms of action of INH required the development of genetic tools in M. tuberculosis. Herein, we discuss the different hypotheses that have been used to describe INH action against M. tuberculosis over the past 50 years in terms of the pregenetic and genetic era. We also review the different mechanisms of INH resistance and propose what we think is the means by which INH kills M. tuberculosis.
Elicitors, Effectors, and R Genes: The New Paradigm and a Lifetime Supply of Questions
Authors: Bent Andrew F. , Mackey David
Published: June 2007

The plant basal immune system can detect broadly present microbe-associated molecular patterns (MAMPs, also called PAMPs) and induce defenses, but adapted microbes express a suite of effector proteins that often act to suppress these defenses. Plants have evolved other receptors (R proteins) that detect these pathogen effectors and activate strong defenses. Pathogens can subsequently alter or delete their recognized effectors to avoid defense elicitation, at risk of a fitness cost associated with loss of those effectors. Significant research progress is revealing, among other things, mechanisms of MAMP perception, the host defense processes and specific host proteins that pathogen effectors target, the mechanisms of R protein activation, and the ways in which pathogen effector suites and R genes evolve. These findings carry practical ramifications for resistance durability and for future resistance engineering. The present review uses numerous questions to help clarify what we know and to identify areas that are ripe for further investigation.
Apoio no nascimento: percepções de profissionais e acompanhantes escolhidos pela mulher
Authors: Brüggemann Odaléa Maria , Osis Maria José Duarte , Parpinelli Mary Angela
Published: June 2007

OBJETIVO: Descrever a percepção de profissionais da saúde sobre prestar assistência à parturiente na presença do acompanhante por ela escolhido, e a percepção dos acompanhantes sobre essa experiência. MÉTODOS: Realizou-se estudo qualitativo, a partir de ensaio clínico randomizado controlado. A amostra estudada foi intencional e definida por saturação de informação. Foram entrevistados 11 profissionais da saúde e 16 acompanhantes no centro obstétrico de uma maternidade em Campinas, SP, de outubro de 2004 a março de 2005. Empregou-se a técnica de análise temática de discurso, utilizando-se as figuras metodológicas: idéia central, expressões-chave e o discurso do sujeito coletivo. RESULTADOS: Entre as idéias centrais dos profissionais destacaram-se: não houve diferença em prestar assistência com acompanhante durante o trabalho de parto e parto; com o acompanhante ocorreram mudanças positivas na assistência; o acompanhante dá apoio emocional à parturiente, que fica mais satisfeita, segura e tranqüila; existem muitos aspectos positivos no comportamento e participação das parturientes com acompanhante; o acompanhante não causou problema e fez o profissional ter atitude mais humana e menos rotineira. As principais idéias centrais dos acompanhantes foram: sentimentos positivos, emoção, satisfação com a experiência; poder ajudar ao dar apoio emocional; sentir-se bem recebido pelos profissionais. CONCLUSÕES: Os profissionais da saúde consideraram importante o apoio do acompanhante não tendo sido observado problema em prestar assistência na sua presença. Os acompanhantes se sentiram satisfeitos e recompensados com a experiência. Não foram detectados conflitos de opinião entre os envolvidos.
India's homosexual discrimination and health consequences
Authors: Agoramoorthy Govindasamy , Minna J Hsu
Published: June 2007

A large number of countries worldwide have legalized homosexual rights. But for 147 years, since when India was a British colony, Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code defines homosexuality as a crime, punishable by imprisonment. This outdated law violates the fundamental rights of homosexuals in India. Despite the fact that literature drawn from Hindu, Buddhist, Muslim, and modern fiction testify to the presence of same-sex love in various forms, homosexuality is still considered a taboo subject in India, by both the society and the government. In the present article, the continuation of the outdated colonial-era homosexuality law and its impact on the underprivileged homosexual society in India is discussed, as well as consequences to this group's health in relation to HIV infection.
Violencia de pareja en mujeres embarazadas en la Ciudad de México
Authors: Doubova (Dubova) Svetlana Vladislavovna , Pámanes-González Verónica , Billings Deborah L , Torres-Arreola Laura del Pilar
Published: June 2007

OBJETIVO: Analisar los factores relacionados a la violencia de pareja en mujeres embarazadas. MÉTODOS: Se recolectó la información de 383 mujeres derechohabientes del Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social que acudieron a control prenatal en cinco Unidades de Medicina Familiar en la Ciudad de México entre septiembre del 2003 y agosto del 2004. Ellas respondieran a un cuestionario de violencia elaborado específicamente para el estudio. RESULTADOS: De las mujeres, 120 (31.1%) reportaron haber estado expuestas a la violencia psicológica y/o física, y/o sexual por parte de su pareja masculina durante el embarazo actual, el 10% reportaron violencia combinada y 21% violencia aislada. La violencia psicológica fue la más frecuentemente reportada (93% del grupo "había experimentado violencia"). Con relación a la percepción sobre la violencia no había diferencias significativas entre los grupos de mujeres con y sin violencia. Solo alrededor de 20% de las mujeres tenían conocimiento sobre los lugares donde atienden a las victimas de violencia. Los factores asociados significativamente a la violencia de pareja en las mujeres embarazadas fueron ser soltera (RM=3.02, IC 95%:1.17;7.83), vivir en unión libre (RM=2.22, IC 95%: 1.11;4.42), antecedentes de violencia en la infancia (RM=3.08, IC 95%:1.62;5.85), consumo de bebidas alcohólicas en la pareja (RM=1.87, IC 95%:1.02;3.42) y presencia de alteraciones emocionales (RM=4.17, IC 95%: 1.12;15.51). CONCLUSIONES: Los resultados refuerzan los hallazgos de otros estudios de que el problema de violencia en mujeres embarazadas en México sigue siendo un problema frecuente.
Utilization of human papillomavirus testing for cervical cancer prevention in a university hospital
Authors: Nomelini Rosekeila Simões , Barcelos Ana Cristina Macêdo , Michelin Márcia Antoniazi , Adad Sheila Jorge , Murta Eddie Fernando Candido
Published: June 2007

This study aimed to evaluate the performance and cost of using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and hybrid capture in the detection of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) in patients with cytological abnormalities (ASCUS/low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion - LSIL), and the feasibility of implementing these methods in Brazil's Unified National Health System (SUS). Colposcopy gave a negative predictive value of 92.86% and efficiency of 87.8% for diagnosing CIN. The sensitivity of PCR and hybrid capture for detecting CIN was 83.33% and 66.67%, respectively, and the negative predictive value for diagnosing CIN2/CIN3 was 100% and 94.74%, respectively. The annual cost for 80 patients was lower when all patients with ASCUS/LSIL were referred for colposcopy than when HPV testing was performed and those with positive results were referred for colposcopy. Therefore, at present, it is financially unfeasible for the National Health System to implement HPV testing to screen patients with cytological abnormalities (ASCUS/LSIL). However, considering that large-scale use might make such methods cheaper, PCR should be the chosen method, since it is less expensive, more sensitive, and has a high negative predictive value.
Malária no Estado do Amapá, Brasil, de 1970 a 2003: trajetória e controle
Authors: Cardoso Rosilene Ferreira , Goldenberg Paulete
Published: June 2007

O presente estudo tem por objetivo dimensionar a ocorrência de malária no Estado do Amapá, Brasil, no período de 1970 a 2003. Com dados de lâminas positivas, obtidos junto a agências de informações em saúde, foi construída uma série temporal de índice parasitário anual (IPA), por mil habitantes, considerando as informações de população obtidas junto ao Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística. No contexto de um intenso incremento populacional, associado ao desenvolvimento regional, os resultados evidenciaram um aumento no período - não linear - dos valores de IPA, que passaram de 15,1‰, em 1970, para 74‰ no ano 2000. No reverso desse movimento, em meio aos esforços de controle da doença, observa-se uma queda desses valores a partir de 2001, que alcança a ordem prevista de 50% em 2002. Acompanhando o movimento de incidência parasitária anual da malária na Amazônia, esses resultados apontaram para o aumento dos valores do IPA no período de 1970 a 2000, observando-se uma redução nos anos subseqüentes, cumprindo com as metas estabelecidas sob o programa vigente de controle da malária no Estado.
Confiabilidade teste-reteste do item único de saúde bucal percebida em uma população de adultos no Rio de Janeiro, Brasil
Authors: Afonso-Souza Gislaine , Nadanovsky Paulo , Werneck Guilherme Loureiro , Faerstein Eduardo , Chor Dora , Lopes Cláudia S.
Published: June 2007

O estudo avaliou a confiabilidade teste-reteste do item único de saúde bucal percebida, que fez parte de um questionário de um estudo longitudinal (Estudo Pró-Saúde, 2001). Esse questionário foi aplicado duas vezes, em uma amostra de 101 funcionários de uma universidade do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil. A avaliação da saúde bucal percebida foi feita utilizando-se um item único com cinco opções de resposta: de "muito bom" a "muito ruim". A concordância foi estimada pela estatística kappa (k) ponderada quadrática e estratificada segundo sexo, idade, renda e escolaridade. O coeficiente kappa para toda população foi 0,80. Valores pontuais mais altos foram obtidos para mulheres (k = 0,84), adultos jovens (k = 0,85), participantes com nível médio de escolaridade (k = 0,86) e os de renda maior que seis salários mínimos (k = 0,91). Estimativas kappa mais baixas foram encontradas em indivíduos acima de 40 anos (k = 0,67, 40-49 anos; e k = 0,69, > 50). A confiabilidade do item único de saúde bucal percebida variou de substancial a quase perfeita, para todos os estratos da população, sugerindo que este item pode ser usado em análises futuras no âmbito do Estudo Pró-Saúde.
O cumprimento da Emenda Constitucional nº. 29 no Brasil
Authors: Campelli Magali Geovana Ramlow , Calvo Maria Cristina M.
Published: June 2007

A aprovação da Emenda Constitucional nº. 29 (EC-29) em 2000 determinou a vinculação de percentuais mínimos de recursos orçamentários que a União, Estados, Distrito Federal e municípios seriam obrigados a aplicar em ações e serviços públicos de saúde. O objetivo deste artigo é verificar o cumprimento da EC-29 no Brasil no período de 2000 a 2003. O estudo é descritivo utilizando-se dados disponíveis no Sistema de Informações sobre Orçamentos Públicos em Saúde (SIOPS). Apresenta como resultado uma dívida acumulada com o Sistema Único de Saúde de R$ 1,8 bilhão na União e de R$ 5,29 bilhões nos Estados. O total de Estados que cumpriram a EC-29 foi de 59% em 2000, 33% em 2001, 41% em 2002 e 52% em 2003. Os dados do SIOPS mostraram que a média percentual de aplicação de recursos próprios municipais em ações e serviços de saúde era superior ao mínimo exigido de 7% previsto na Constituição Federal. A média percentual de recursos próprios aplicados pelos municípios ficou em 13,67% em 2000, 14,82% em 2001, 16,54% em 2002 e 17,40% em 2003.