bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Late Cenozoic paleomagnetism of West Siberian Plate
Authors: Gnibidenko Z.N.
Published: April 2007

On the basis of combined (paleomagnetic, lithological, and paleontological) data, a scale of Neogene geomagnetic polarity is proposed for the West Siberian Plate (WSP). It comprises 17 large orthozones of normal and reversed polarity. The scale was compiled by comparing and correlating the Neogene key sections of the Kulunda and Baraba plains, Irtysh regions between Omsk and Pavlodar and near Tara, and Ob’ region near Tomsk. The reliability of paleomagnetic data is confirmed by component analysis of natural remanent magnetization and by a possibility of determining its primary component. In the studied Neogene rocks this is a high-temperature component related to magnetite, hematite, and maghemite, which decays at 420–675 °C. In the period from Early Miocene to Late Pliocene, the Late Cenozoic geomagnetic field reconstructed from NRM vectors for WSP rocks of Neogene age experienced 17 reversals (at the level of orthozone boundaries), with eight regimes of normal polarity and nine regimes of reversed polarity. Comparison of the WSP Neogene scale with Berggren’s scale provided absolute age boundaries of the Late Cenozoic series on the WSP regional stratigraphic scale. The 23.8 Ma boundary between the Oligocene and Miocene is recorded in the regional scale at the sole of the Lyamin beds of the Abrosimovka Formation, at the bottom of Orthochron R1N1aq, and the Miocene-Pliocene 5.2 Ma boundary (Chron C3r), in the Novaya Stanitsa Formation (top of the Cherlak beds).
A high oxidised frying oil content diet is less adipogenic, but induces glucose intolerance in rodents
Authors: Chao Pei-Min , Huang Hui-Ling , Liao Chun-Huei , Huang Shiau-Ting , Huang Ching-jang
Published: April 2007

Oxidised frying oil (OFO) and fish oil have been shown to be peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)α activators and their ingestion results in pleotropic peroxisome proliferator responses in rats. To examine the effect of dietary OFO on adiposity, four groups of weanling Sprague–Dawley rats were fed isoenergetically with, respectively, a low fat basal diet containing 5 g/100 g of fresh soybean oil (LSB) or a high fat diet containing 20 g/100 g of fresh soybean oil (HSB), OFO (HO) or fish oil (HF). The tissue mass, cell size and lipid/DNA ratio in the retroperitoneal fat pad and serum leptin levels were lowest in the HO group (P < 0·05), indicating that dietary OFO has a greater anti-adipogenic action than dietary fish oil. However, a tendency to hyperglycaemia was observed in the HO group (P = 0·0528). To examine the effect of dietary OFO on glucose tolerance, three groups of rats and three groups of mice were fed, respectively, the LSB, HSB or HO diet, and an oral glucose tolerance test was performed. After oral glucose load, the area under the curve for blood glucose (AUCglu) over 2 h was significantly higher, and that for serum insulin (AUCins) over 90 min was significantly lower, in the HO group than in the other two groups (P < 0·05). These results demonstrate that, in rats and mice, a high OFO diet is less adipogenic, but induces glucose intolerance.
Carbon isotope stratigraphy of the Precambrian–Cambrian Sukharikha River section, northwestern Siberian platform
Authors: KOUCHINSKY ARTEM , BENGTSON STEFAN , PAVLOV VLADIMIR , RUNNEGAR BRUCE , TORSSANDER PETER , YOUNG EDWARD , ZIEGLER KAREN
Published: April 2007

A high-resolution carbon isotope profile through the uppermost Neoproterozoic–Lower Cambrian part of the Sukharikha section at the northwestern margin of the Siberian platform shows prominent secular oscillations of δ13C with peak-to-peak range of 6–10 ‰. There are six minima, 1n–6n, and seven maxima 1p–7p, in the Sukharikha Formation and a rising trend of δ13C from the minimum 1n of − 8.6 ‰ to maximum 6p of + 6.4 ‰. The trough 1n probably coincides with the isotopic minimum at the Precambrian–Cambrian boundary worldwide. Highly positive δ13C values of peaks 5p and 6p are typical of the upper portion of the Precambrian–Cambrian transitional beds just beneath the Tommotian Stage in Siberia. A second rising trend of δ13C is observed through the Krasnoporog and lower Shumny formations. It consists of four excursions with four major maxima that can be correlated with Tommotian–Botomian peaks II, IV, V, and VII of the reference profile from the southeastern Siberian platform. According to the chemostratigraphic correlation, the first appearances of the index forms of archaeocyaths are earlier in the Sukharikha section than in the Lena–Aldan region.
Jugular foramen meningocoele in a patient with neurofibromatosis type 1
Authors: Siddiqui A , Connor S , Gleeson M
Published: April 2007

Objective:

We present a rare case of a jugular foramen meningocoele in a 48-year-old female, with neurofibromatosis type 1, presenting with positional vertigo. We also postulate possible underlying pathophysiological mechanisms.

Method:

We describe the imaging findings of this rare entity and review the literature on skull base meningocoeles, particularly in the context of neurofibromatosis type 1.

Results:

A computed tomography scan revealed smooth expansion of the jugular foramen. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a fluid filled lesion expanding the jugular foramen and communicating with cerebrospinal fluid of the cerebellomedullary cistern superiorly.

Conclusion:

Skull base meningocoeles are a rare entity and we believe that this is the first reported case of a meningocoele causing enlargement of the jugular foramen in a patient with neurofibromatosis type 1. The meningocoele may have resulted from a severe form of dural ectasia or from dysplastic, weakened bone at the skull base.
Descartes's theodicy
Authors: RAGLAND C. P.
Published: April 2007

In the Fourth Meditation, Descartes asks: ‘If God is no deceiver, why do we sometimes err?’ Descartes's answer (despite initial appearances) is both systematic and necessary for his epistemological project. Two atheistic arguments from error purport to show that reason both proves and disproves God's existence. Descartes must block them to escape scepticism. He offers a mixed theodicy: the value of free will justifies God in allowing our actual errors, and the perfection of the universe may justify God in making us able to err. Though internally coherent, Descartes's theodicy conflicts with his view of divine providence.
Divine hiddenness and the nature of belief
Authors: POSTON TED , DOUGHERTY TRENT
Published: April 2007

In this paper we argue that attention to the intricacies relating to belief illustrate crucial difficulties with Schellenberg's hiddenness argument. This issue has been only tangentially discussed in the literature to date. Yet we judge this aspect of Schellenberg's argument deeply significant. We claim that focus on the nature of belief manifests a central flaw in the hiddenness argument. Additionally, attention to doxastic subtleties provides important lessons about the nature of faith.
On not unnecessarily darkening the glass: a reply to Poston and Dougherty
Authors: SCHELLENBERG J. L.
Published: April 2007

I argue that Poston and Dougherty are mistaken in supposing that the hiddenness argument contains ambiguities about the nature of belief. And the attempt to extract from their mistaken account some reasons for favouring a broad, disjunctive view of divine – creature relationship that will be convincing for individuals not in the grip of theological assumptions comes up dry.
Patient assessment of tests to detect cervical cancer
Authors: Basen-Engquist Karen , Fouladi Rachel T. , Cantor Scott B. , Shinn Eileen , Sui Dawen , Sharman Mathilde , Follen Michele
Published: April 2007

Objectives:This study was undertaken to understand how women view characteristics of tests for cervical dysplasia, because these characteristics can affect patient decision-making about screening and follow-up.

Methods:We recruited women who participated in a clinical trial of optical spectroscopy for the diagnosis of cervical dysplasia and used conjoint analysis to assess the women's preferences concerning test attributes. One group of women had a history of an abnormal Papanicolaou smear (diagnostic sample), while the other group did not (screening sample). Participants rated pairs of test scenarios that varied on characteristics such as test sensitivity and painfulness. Based on their responses, the relative importance of test sensitivity, specificity, timing of results feedback and treatment, and pain were calculated, and a cluster analysis was done to identify subgroups of participants with different preference patterns.

Results:In the overall sample, sensitivity was the most important attribute, followed by timing, specificity, and pain. Cluster analysis revealed four distinct groups who placed varying importance on each characteristic. The participants in the cluster for which pain was the most important attribute were more likely to be diagnostic patients, non-white, and have low education levels. They also reported more anxiety and pain during the examination than participants in other clusters.

Conclusions:To continue to reduce morbidity and mortality from cervical cancer, developers of new testing procedures should take into account test attributes such as these, which may affect adherence to screening and diagnostic follow-up to further minimize morbidity and mortality from cervical cancer.
Are economic evaluations and health technology assessments increasingly demanded in times of rationing health services? The case of the Argentine financial crisis
Authors: Rubinstein Adolfo , Belizán María , Discacciati Vilda
Published: April 2007

Objectives:After 4 years of deepening recession, Argentina's economy plummeted after default in 2002. This crisis critically affected health expenditures and triggered acute rationing. Our objective was to explore health decision-makers' knowledge and attitudes about economic evaluations (EE) and whether health technology assessment (HTA) were increasingly used for decision making.

Methods:A qualitative design based on semistructured interviews and focus groups was used to explore how decision makers belonging to different health sectors implement resource allocation decisions.

Results:Informants were mostly unaware of EE. The most important criteria mentioned to adopt a treatment were evidence of effectiveness, social/stakeholder demand, or resource availability. Despite general positive attitudes about EE, knowledge was rather limited. Although cost considerations were widely accepted by purchasers and managers, clinicians argued about these issues as interfering with the doctor–patient relationship. Other important perceived barriers to HTA use were lack of confidence in the transferability of studies conducted in developed countries and institutional fragmentation of the Argentine healthcare system. The new macroeconomic context was cited as a justification of implicit rationing measures. Although explicit priority setting was implemented by many purchasers and managers, HTA was not used to improve technical and/or allocative efficiency.

Conclusions:The crisis seems to be a strong incentive to extend the use of HTA in Argentina, provided decision makers are aware as well as involved in the generation of local studies.
Lifestyle intervention to prevent diabetes in men and women with impaired glucose tolerance is cost-effective
Authors: Lindgren Peter , Lindström Jaana , Tuomilehto Jaakko , Uusitupa Matti , Peltonen Markku , Jönsson Bengt , de Faire Ulf , Hellénius Mai-Lis ,   The DPS Study Group
Published: April 2007

Objectives: The Finnish Diabetes Prevention Study (DPS) was a randomized intervention program that evaluated the effect of intensive lifestyle modification on the development of diabetes mellitus type 2 in patients with impaired glucose tolerance. As such, a program is demanding in terms of resources; it is necessary to assess whether it would be money well spent. This determination was the purpose of this study.

Methods: We developed a simulation model to assess the economic consequences of an intervention like the one studied in DPS in a Swedish setting. The model used data from the trial itself to assess the effect of intervention on the risk of diabetes and on risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Results from the United Kingdom Prospective Diabetes Study were used to estimate the risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke. Cost data were derived from Swedish studies. The intervention was assumed to be applied to eligible patients from a population-based screening program of 60-year-olds in the County of Stockholm from which the baseline characteristics of the patients was used.

Results: The model predicted that implementing the program would be cost-saving from the healthcare payers' perspective. Furthermore, it was associated with an increase in estimated survival of .18 years. Taking into consideration the increased consumption by patients due to their longer survival, the predicted cost-effectiveness ratio was 2,363€ per quality-adjusted life-year gained.

Conclusions: Lifestyle intervention directed toward high-risk subjects would be cost-saving for the healthcare payer and highly cost-effective for society as a whole.
Clinical and cost-effectiveness of left ventricular assist devices as destination therapy for people with end-stage heart failure: A systematic review and economic evaluation
Authors: Clegg Andrew J. , Scott David A. , Loveman Emma , Colquitt Jill , Royle Pam , Bryant Jackie
Published: April 2007

Objectives:The clinical and cost-effectiveness of left ventricular assist devices as destination therapy for people with end-stage heart failure is assessed through a systematic review and economic evaluation.

Methods:Systematic review was performed of randomized controlled trials, quasiexperimental studies, case series, and case studies identified through searching eighteen electronic databases, bibliographies, and consultation with experts and manufacturers. Studies assessed survival, functional capacity, and quality of life. Cost-effectiveness was assessed through a 5-year decision analytic model to estimate the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio for using left ventricular assist devices compared with usual care.

Results:Six studies met the inclusion criteria, showing that left ventricular assist devices appear beneficial, improving survival and quality of life. Adverse events are a serious concern. The economic evaluation showed that left ventricular assist devices had a cost per quality adjusted life year of £170,616. Sensitivity analysis showed that the cost-effectiveness was not sensitive to changes in costs or utility.

Conclusions:Although left ventricular assist devices appear clinically effective as destination therapy, it is unlikely they will be cost-effective unless costs decrease or the benefits of their use increase.
Review of a decision by the Medical Services Advisory Committee based on health technology assessment of an emerging technology: The case for remotely assisted radical prostatectomy
Authors: O'Malley Sue P. , Jordan Ernest
Published: April 2007

Objectives: In April 1998, the Medical Services Advisory Committee (MSAC) was established by the Australian federal government. Since that time, all new medical procedures must be evaluated for safety, effectiveness, and cost-effectiveness as a condition of the surgeon receiving public funding by means of the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS). Over these first 8 years, a significant number of applications for the public funding of new procedures have been given negative recommendations by the MSAC based on insufficient clinical evidence or lack of cost-effectiveness. In August 2006, after almost 2 years of processing, the MSAC made the decision to fund the new procedure, laparoscopic remotely assisted radical prostatectomy (LRARP). However, they stated that there was still uncertainty about the comparative cost-effectiveness.

Methods: An observational study using provisional cost-utility data for LRARP based on a combination of costs taken from consecutive patients at the Epworth Hospital, Melbourne, Australia, and utilities from the prospectively collected data on all patients undergoing surgery for prostate cancer over a 4-year period at the Vattikuti Urology Institute, Michigan, United States.

Results: The incremental cost for LRARP compared with the open surgery alternative is A$2,264 or A$24,457 per quality-adjusted life-year, well below the range accepted by the Australian pharmaceutical equivalent of the MSAC (the PBAC) of A$42,000 and A$76,000. This figure does not take into account additional benefits such as reduced time away from employment, reduced blood loss, reduced possibility of infection, and reduced scarring.

Conclusions: This case study of LRARP demonstrates that there is sufficient crude evidence to show that this new procedure is likely to be superior to the existing procedure in terms of safety, effectiveness, and cost-effectiveness. The decision to allow MBS funding was correct and will allow for the collection of additional evidence, on both economic and clinical outcomes.
Retrospective survey of Chikungunya disease in Réunion Island hospital staff
Authors: STAIKOWSKY F. , Le ROUX K. , SCHUFFENECKER I. , LAURENT P. , GRIVARD P. , DEVELAY A. , MICHAULT A.
Published: April 2007

Réunion Island (Indian Ocean) has been suffering from its first known Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) epidemic since February 2005. To achieve a better understanding of the disease, a questionnaire was drawn up for hospital staff members and their household. CHIKV infected about one-third of the studied population, the proportion increasing with age and being higher in women. Presence of a garden was associated with CHIKV infection. The geographical distribution of cases was concordant with insect vector Aedes albopictus distribution. The main clinical signs were arthralgia and fever. The disease evolved towards full recovery in 34·4% of cases, a relapse in 55·6%, or a chronic form in 10%. Paracetamol was used as a painkiller in 95% of cases, sometimes associated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, corticoids, or traditional herbal medicine. The survey provided valuable information on the factors that favour transmission, the clinical signs, the importance of relapses and the therapies used.
Under-reporting of infectious gastrointestinal illness in British Columbia, Canada: who is counted in provincial communicable disease statistics?
Authors: MacDOUGALL L. , MAJOWICZ S. , DORÉ K. , FLINT J. , THOMAS K. , KOVACS S. , SOCKETT P.
Published: April 2007

Under-reporting of infectious gastrointestinal illness (IGI) in British Columbia, Canada was calculated using simulation modelling, accounting for the uncertainty and variability of input parameters. Factors affecting under-reporting were assessed during a cross-sectional randomized telephone survey. For every case of IGI reported to the province, a mean of 347 community cases occurred (5th and 95th percentile estimates ranged from 181 to 611 community cases, respectively). Vomiting [odds ratio (OR) 2·15, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1·03–4·49] and antibiotic use in the previous 28 days (OR 3·59, 95% CI 1·17–10·97) significantly predicted health-care visits in a logistic regression model. In bivariate analyses, physicians were significantly less likely to request stool samples from patients with vomiting (RR 0·09, 95% CI 0·01–0·65) and patients of North American as opposed to non-North American cultural groups (RR 0·38, 95% CI 0·15–0·96). Physicians were more likely to request stool samples from older patients (P=0·003), patients with fewer household members (P=0·002) and those who reported anti-diarrhoeal use following illness (RR 3·33, 95% CI 1·32–8·45). People with symptoms of vomiting were under-represented in provincial communicable disease statistics. Differential degrees of under-reporting must be understood before biased surveillance data can be adjusted.
Multinational Enterprise, ‘Corporate Responsibility’ and the Nazi Dictatorship: The Case of Unilever and Germany in the 1930s
Authors: FORBES NEIL
Published: April 2007

The reason why a fuller understanding of the significance of the Hitler dictatorship did not emerge in prewar democracies remains a question of enduring historical interest. This article examines the way in which Unilever, one of the earliest multinational corporations, responded to the challenges of political risk posed by the Third Reich, and how aspects of business activity that gave rise to moral issues were weighed against the need to survive commercially. The realisation that Unilever could be seen as an unwitting accomplice in the dictatorship's criminal activities seems to have come late to the company. While corporate culture reflected the values of contemporary society, multinational business was partly responsible for the failure to sound the alarm over the unique dangers inherent in National Socialism.
Representation, Reconsideration and Recollection Recent Works on the Second World War
Authors: HART RUSSELL A.
Published: April 2007

These seven books reflect the great diversity and dynamism of contemporary scholarship on the Second World War. They encompass a broad range of genres, including analytical monographs, vivid and compelling memoirs, an edited conference collection and a work that makes hitherto classified archival material available to a wider audience. Together they demonstrate the vitality and breadth of recent Second World War scholarship, reflecting that the war remains a subject of significant scholarly and popular interest.
The Feasibility and Effectiveness of Computer-Guided CBT (FearFighter) in a Rural Area
Authors: Hayward Linda , MacGregor Alastair D. , Peck David F. , Wilkes Peter
Published: April 2007

Evaluations of computer-guided CBT (CCBT) suggest that this is a promising approach to closing the gap between the demand for, and the supply of, CBT. However, additional studies are required that are conducted by researchers independent of the programme developers, and include a wider range of participants. This independent study examined the viability of CCBT for panic and phobic anxiety in an unselected sample of referrals in remote and rural areas of Scotland. Outcome was assessed by a wide range of outcome measures, completed before and after treatment, and at 4-month follow-up. Participants experienced few difficulties in using the programme, and GPs and participants regarded CCBT as acceptable and useful. Major improvements were obtained, with several large effect sizes, which remained at follow-up. It was concluded that computer-guided CBT can play a useful part in delivering CBT services in rural areas; and that self-help CBT may be the only treatment option available to some sufferers.
Ion escape fluxes from Mars
Authors: Ma Ying‐Juan , Nagy Andrew F.
Published: April 2007

A 3D, multi‐species, non‐ideal MHD numerical code was used to calculate the ion escape fluxes from Mars. The calculations were carried out for six cases with different nominal solar wind, solar cycle and crustal field orientation conditions and the total escape fluxes (the sum of the three major ionospheric species, O+, O2+, and CO2+) varied by about an order of magnitude from 2.7 × 1023 to 2.4 × 1024 sec−1. These results were compared to the recently measured Mars Express results of 3.2 × 1023 sec−1 (O+, O2+, and CO2+), which were obtained near solar cycle minimum conditions, indicating a good agreement between measured and calculated fluxes. We also calculated the escape flux for “extremely” high solar wind conditions which leads to a flux of 3 × 1025 sec−1.
Energy dependence of electron pitch angle distribution widths in solar bursts
Authors: de Koning C. A. , Gosling J. T. , Skoug R. M. , Steinberg J. T.
Published: April 2007

Solar activity regularly produces suprathermal electron bursts at energies below 1.4 keV. At 1 AU, these bursts have been detected at energies as low as 73 eV. The characteristics of such bursts vary considerably from event to event due in part to the physical processes involved in their propagation to Earth. In 2002, Advanced Composition Explorer/Solar Wind Electron Proton Alpha Monitor (ACE/SWEPAM) observed 101 solar electron bursts at energies below 1.4 keV, 40 of which exhibited broader pitch angle distributions than the preburst strahl. In general, the width of the pitch angle distribution from 73 to 1370 eV is a function of energy. In ∼65% of the events the pitch angle distribution width increased with energy during the burst, in ∼10% of the events it decreased with energy, and ∼25% of the cases demonstrated no clear energy dependence. The delay time between the onset of the burst and the onset of pitch angle distribution broadening also showed energy dependence. At 987 eV broadening almost always occurred after onset of the burst; however, at energies less than 519 eV broadening of the pitch angle distribution sometimes preceded the burst onset. Although energy dispersion was observed in the burst onset times, several events revealed nearly simultaneous broadening over an extended range of energies, in one case from 197 to 1370 eV. Broadening of the pitch angle distribution function during solar electron bursts almost certainly results from wave‐particle scattering. Scattering, in turn, should depend on solar wind plasma and magnetic field conditions. Nevertheless, we were not able to find any general statistical correlations between ACE plasma and magnetic field parameters and the burst pitch angle distribution width. Because ACE measurements are inherently local, whereas scattering can occur anywhere between the Sun and Earth, we also examined five bursts that we infer underwent relatively local scattering. These bursts exhibited maximum pitch angle distribution widths greater than 75°. Even these special cases failed to manifest any correlation with local plasma or magnetic field measurements.
Mechanical properties of sand, silt, and clay containing tetrahydrofuran hydrate
Authors: Yun T. S. , Santamarina J. C. , Ruppel C.
Published: April 2007

The mechanical behavior of hydrate‐bearing sediments subjected to large strains has relevance for the stability of the seafloor and submarine slopes, drilling and coring operations, and the analysis of certain small‐strain properties of these sediments (for example, seismic velocities). This study reports on the results of comprehensive axial compression triaxial tests conducted at up to 1 MPa confining pressure on sand, crushed silt, precipitated silt, and clay specimens with closely controlled concentrations of synthetic hydrate. The results show that the stress‐strain behavior of hydrate‐bearing sediments is a complex function of particle size, confining pressure, and hydrate concentration. The mechanical properties of hydrate‐bearing sediments at low hydrate concentration (probably < 40% of pore space) appear to be determined by stress‐dependent soil stiffness and strength. At high hydrate concentrations (>50% of pore space), the behavior becomes more independent of stress because the hydrates control both stiffness and strength and possibly the dilative tendency of sediments by effectively increasing interparticle coordination, cementing particles together, and filling the pore space. The cementation contribution to the shear strength of hydrate‐bearing sediments decreases with increasing specific surface of soil minerals. The lower the effective confining stress, the greater the impact of hydrate formation on normalized strength.
Effects of ice crystal habit on thermal infrared radiative properties and forcing of cirrus
Authors: Wendisch Manfred , Yang Ping , Pilewskie Peter
Published: April 2007

The impact of assumed ice crystal morphology on thermal infrared (IR) radiative properties of subtropical cirrus is quantified. In particular, the crystal‐shape‐dependent profiles of downwelling and upwelling thermal IR (broadband and spectral) irradiances and the radiative forcing of cirrus (at the top and bottom of the atmosphere) are investigated. For this purpose, airborne measurements of ice crystal size distribution (in terms of ice crystal maximum dimension) from the CRYSTAL‐FACE campaign and a recently published library of thermal IR optical properties of nonspherical ice crystal habits are implemented into radiative transfer simulations. Two cirrus cases are studied in detail: (1) a high (cold) cirrus with small optical thickness (≈1 at 10.8 μm wavelength) and (2) a lower (warmer) cirrus of relatively large optical thickness (≈7). The relative effects of ice crystal shape on thermal IR irradiance are substantial for the high, optically thin cirrus (up to 70%). Spectrally, the largest effects of ice crystal shape are identified in the atmospheric window spanning from 8 to 12 μm wavelengths, especially for the upwelling irradiance above the cirrus. For the low cirrus of large optical thickness the thermal IR irradiance is only slightly sensitive to ice crystal habit (less than 15–20%). Within the major gas absorption bands the thermal IR radiation is essentially insensitive to ice crystal shape. Furthermore, it is concluded that the thermal IR radiative forcing at the top of the atmosphere contains significant ice crystal shape dependence for the high cirrus case.
Effect of deposition and erosion within the main river channel and large lakes on sediment delivery to the estuary of the Yangtze River
Authors: Yang S. L. , Zhang J. , Dai S. B. , Li M. , Xu X. J.
Published: April 2007

To examine the influence of deposition and erosion within the main river channel and large lakes on sediment delivery to the estuary at the mouth of the Yangtze River, we established sediment budgets from time series data for 1956–2004 of annual sediment load gauged at 24 stations and estimated data for ungauged areas. Ungauged areas supplied approximately 17% of the total sediment to the estuary, while an average of 34% of sediment is stored in the main river channel complex. Prior to the operation of the Three Gorges Dam (TGD) in 2003, 88% of deposition occurred within a 700‐km section immediately downstream from the outlet of the Three Gorges area, including the main channel and a linked lake. Since the operation of the dam, however, deposition has migrated into the Three Gorges area, and downstream erosion has been observed. Patterns of deposition and erosion depend mainly on sediment input, except for the lower 500 km of the river where water discharge is the governing factor. Although sediment supply from the subbasins to the main river system will presumably experience a further decrease because of construction of new dams and afforestation, sediment flux to the estuary is unlikely to fall below 100 × 109kg/yr over the next 50 years because sediment availability downstream of the TGD will not be a limiting factor over this timescale.
Geochemical evolution of the central Pacific Ocean over the past 56 Myr
Authors: Ziegler Christa L. , Murray Richard W.
Published: April 2007

We measured the elemental concentrations of 69 sediment samples collected at Ocean Drilling Program Site 1215 and employed a suite of statistical methods and elemental ratios to quantify the lithogenic, biogenic, and authigenic/hydrogenous/hydrothermal (AHH) components. We show that the changes in their abundance record (1) northwestward migration of the Pacific Plate, (2) changes in climatic and oceanographic processes associated with the transition from the Eocene “greenhouse” into the Oligocene “icehouse,” and (3) changes in Pacific spreading rates and plate reorganization. The distributions of three separate lithogenic end‐members depend on the latitudinal positioning of the site underneath the different wind belts. Locations north of 22°N received material from Asia, which was transported to the central Pacific via the westerlies. Locations between 20° and 22°N display a silicic volcanic composition and may reflect the boundary between westerlies and northeast trade winds. Locations south of 20°N are geochemically (e.g., Cr/Ta, Sc/Th, etc.) distinct from locations north of 22°N and suggest a North American origin. Rb/Sc significantly increases from values of 2.8 g g−1 at ∼20–22 Ma to 5.7 g g−1 in the modern, recording the development of the east Asian monsoon and formation of Asian loess. During the early to mid‐Eocene (53–54 Ma), when Site 1215 was located at ∼11°–13°N and was above the carbonate compensation depth, export production increased by 40–55% and was ∼25% greater than the modern value at 9°N. The AHH component dominated from late Eocene to the late Miocene and during the late Eocene may have been driven by elevated hydrothermal activity during increased seafloor spreading.
Oscillation of Venus' upper atmosphere
Authors: Forbes J. M. , Konopliv A.
Published: April 2007

Little is known about the variability of Venus' upper atmosphere. We report discovery of a large (∼ ±30–50%) 9‐day period density oscillation, derived from radar tracking of the Magellan spacecraft from 15 Sept 92 – 24 May 93. The densities correspond to 164–184 km altitude, 11°N latitude, and cover all local times. The wave is presumed to propagate upward from lower atmosphere regions, and occurs mainly between dusk and midnight, suggesting that local time differences in forcing and/or mean wind filtering are affecting accessibility to the upper atmosphere. Possible sources for the wave are discussed, including wave‐wave interactions. Many questions remain concerning the origin and nature of the 9‐day oscillation, including its persistence. Instruments on Venus Express, now orbiting Venus, have the opportunity to further elucidate the 9‐day wave and understand its role in the dynamics of Venus' upper atmosphere.
Transverse structure of turbulence in a rotating gravity current
Authors: Umlauf L. , Arneborg L. , Burchard H. , Fiekas V. , Lass H. U. , Mohrholz V. , Prandke H.
Published: April 2007

Synoptic, high‐resolution, measurements of turbulent kinetic energy dissipation, current velocity and water column stratification across a fast (up to 0.7 m s−1) oceanic saline gravity current are presented. Our data provide, for the first time, a detailed two‐dimensional picture of the turbulence structure inside a gravity current. Strong boundary‐layer and interfacial turbulence can be distinguished from a quiet core, and a strong asymmetry of mixing near the outer edges of the gravity current is apparent. This asymmetry is mirrored by the computed entrainment velocities, varying approximately by a factor of 5 across the gravity current. It is argued that the asymmetry is due to rotational effects that can be clearly identified also in the velocity and density fields.
Contemporary total dissolved gas pressure and soil temperature anomalies recorded at Stromboli volcano (Italy)
Authors: De Gregorio Sofia , Madonia Paolo , Gurrieri Sergio , Giudice Gaetano , Inguaggiato Salvatore
Published: April 2007

Soil temperature and total dissolved gas pressure (TDGP) data were recorded by two continuous monitoring stations on the volcano of Stromboli (Italy) between March and October 2006. During this period several TDGP and soil temperature anomalies, unrelated to external causes and characterized by a similar shape and occurrence time, were recorded. These anomalies were interpreted as transients due to changes in the degassing regime of the volcano, which was in turn related to changes in the partition ratio of the volcanic fluids between the conduit and the soil. In the same period Stromboli experienced an anomalous phase of volcanic and tectonic activity. The close correlation found between volcano‐tectonic activity and variations in anomalous‐monitored parameters suggests that their continuous monitoring may be a useful tool for the surveillance of volcanic activity on the island.
Anandamide and NADA bi‐directionally modulate presynaptic Ca2+ levels and transmitter release in the hippocampus
Authors: Köfalvi A , Pereira M F , Rebola N , Rodrigues R J , Oliveira C R , Cunha R A
Published: April 2007

Background and purpose:

Inhibitory CB1 cannabinoid receptors and excitatory TRPV1 vanilloid receptors are abundant in the hippocampus. We tested if two known hybrid endocannabinoid/endovanilloid substances, N‐arachidonoyl‐dopamine (NADA) and anandamide (AEA), presynapticaly increased or decreased intracellular calcium level ([Ca2+]i) and GABA and glutamate release in the hippocampus.

Experimental approach:

Resting and K+‐evoked levels of [Ca2+]i and the release of [3H]GABA and [3H]glutamate were measured in rat hippocampal nerve terminals.

Key results:

NADA and AEA per se triggered a rise of [Ca2+]i and the release of both transmitters in a concentration‐ and external Ca2+‐dependent fashion, but independently of TRPV1, CB1, CB2, or dopamine receptors, arachidonate‐regulated Ca2+‐currents, intracellular Ca2+ stores, and fatty acid metabolism. AEA was recently reported to block TASK‐3 potassium channels thereby depolarizing membranes. Common inhibitors of TASK‐3, Zn2+, Ruthenium Red, and low pH mimicked the excitatory effects of AEA and NADA, suggesting that their effects on [Ca2+]i and transmitter levels may be attributable to membrane depolarization upon TASK‐3 blockade. The K+‐evoked Ca2+ entry and Ca2+‐dependent transmitter release were inhibited by nanomolar concentrations of the CB1 receptor agonist WIN55212‐2; this action was sensitive to the selective CB1 receptor antagonist AM251. However, in the low micromolar range, WIN55212‐2, NADA and AEA inhibited the K+‐evoked Ca2+ entry and transmitter release independently of CB1 receptors, possibly through direct Ca2+ channel blockade.

Conclusions and implications:

We report here for hybrid endocannabinoid/endovanilloid ligands novel dual functions which were qualitatively similar to activation of CB1 or TRPV1 receptors, but were mediated through interactions with different targets.

British Journal of Pharmacology (2007) 151, 551–563; doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0707252
Regulation of the expression of soluble guanylyl cyclase by reactive oxygen species
Authors: Gerassimou C , Kotanidou A , Zhou Z , Simoes D C M , Roussos C , Papapetropoulos A
Published: April 2007

British Journal of Pharmacology (2007) 150, 1092. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0707256
Using XANES to Monitor the Oxidation State of Cobalt Complexes
Authors: Hall Matthew D. , Underwood Clare K. , Failes Timothy W. , Foran Garry J. , Hambley Trevor W.
Published: April 2007

X-Ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES) spectroscopy was used to monitor the oxidation state of cobalt following treatment of CoIII complexes with reducing agents such as ascorbate and cysteine. It was established that the XANES spectra of mixtures of CoII and CoIII complexes can be used to calculate proportions of the two oxidation states by monitoring the height of the Co K-edge. The relationships developed were used to estimate proportions of each complex in solutions of CoIII complexes treated with reducing agents.
Syntheses of 1,2-Amino Alcohols and Their Applications for Oxazaborolidine Catalyzed Enantioselective Reduction of Aromatic Ketones
Authors: Vatmurge Namdev S. , Hazra Braja G. , Pore Vandana S.
Published: April 2007

Six new chiral 1,2-amino alcohol derivatives have been synthesized starting from (1R,2R)-2-amino-1-phenylpropane-1,3-diol. Asymmetric reduction of aryl ketones with in-situ generated oxazaborolidine from these amino alcohol derivatives and BH3·Me2S afforded secondary alcohols with good yield and moderate to high enantiomeric excess.
Ab Initio Study of Structure and Stability of M2Al2 (M = Cu, Ag, and Au) Clusters
Authors: Liu FengLi , Zhao YongFang , Li XinYing , Hao FengYou
Published: April 2007

Coinage metal aluminium clusters M2Al2 (M = Cu, Ag, and Au) were studied by Hartree–Fock (HF) and second-order Møller–Plesset perturbation theory (MP2) with pseudopotentials. It was found that the butterfly structure with C2v (1A1) symmetry is more stable than the planar structure, and Au2Al2 is the most stable of the title species. The binding energies and the highest occupied molecular orbital and the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (HOMO–LUMO) gap are evaluated, which indicates that doping clusters M2Al2 are more stable than the pure clusters M4 (M = Cu, Ag, and Au). Electron correlation and relativistic effects stabilize the present species.
A Simple, Efficient, and Green Procedure for the 1,4-Addition of Thiols to Conjugated Alkenes and Alkynes Catalyzed by Sodium Acetate in Aqueous Medium
Authors: Ranu Brindaban C. , Mandal Tanmay
Published: April 2007

A benign and inexpensive salt, sodium acetate, efficiently catalyzes 1,4-addition of thiols to a variety of conjugated alkenes such as α,β-unsaturated ketones, aldehydes, carboxylic esters, nitriles, nitro compounds, and chalcones in aqueous THF. The reactions are clean, fast, and high yielding.
Hormones and breast cancer: controlling the danger within
Authors: Bashyam Hema
Published: April 2007

For the first half of the 20th century, the effects of sex hormones on breast cancer were poorly understood due to the lack of an animal model. In 1959, Charles Huggins devised a method to induce hormone-responsive mammary cancers in rats. The model paved the way for new treatment and prevention strategies for breast cancer.
The structural determinants of checkpoint activation
Authors: MacDougall Christina A. , Byun Tony S. , Van Christopher , Yee Muh-ching , Cimprich Karlene A.
Published: April 2007

Here, we demonstrate that primed, single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) is sufficient for activation of the ATR-dependent checkpoint pathway in Xenopus egg extracts. Using this structure, we define the contribution of the 5′- and 3′-primer ends to Chk1 activation when replication is blocked and ongoing. In addition, we show that although ssDNA is not sufficient for checkpoint activation, the amount of ssDNA adjacent to the primer influences the level of Chk1 phosphorylation. These observations define the minimal DNA requirements for checkpoint activation and suggest that primed ssDNA represents a common checkpoint activating-structure formed following many types of damage.
New records of mango shield scale Milviscutulus mangiferae (Green) (Hemiptera: Coccidae) and Brevennia rehi (Lindinger) (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) in north Queensland
Authors: Grimshaw Judy F , Donaldson John F
Published: April 2007

Abstract  The first Australian records of mango shield scale (Milviscutulus mangiferae) from north Queensland and additional records from parts of Papua New Guinea are presented. The majority of specimens were collected from mango leaves (Mangifera indica). A summary of its known distribution, other hosts, identification and damage levels is also presented. Also, the detection of rice mealybug (Brevennia rehi) in far north Queensland is reported for the first time. This pest is known to occur in the Northern Territory. The north Queensland detections are from native grasses. The records presented here, for both species, are regarded as new detections, rather than new incursions.
Field records of painted apple moth (Teia anartoides Walker: Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae) on plants and inanimate objects in Auckland, New Zealand
Authors: Stephens Andréa E A , Suckling D Max , Burnip Graham M , Richmond Juliet , Flynn Alan
Published: April 2007

Abstract  As part of an eradication program, field searches were conducted to verify the geographical extent of the painted apple moth (PAM; Teia anartoides Walker: Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae) incursion and to determine which plants were being attacked. Most PAM were found on the wattle species, in particular Paraserianthes lophanta and Acacia mearnsii. Other species with large numbers of PAM included the native Corynocarpus laevigatus (karaka) and Avicennia marina (grey mangrove). The large number of PAM on these New Zealand species would not have been predicted from the known unrelated Australian hosts. The relatively high number of PAM found on inanimate objects demonstrated the mobility of PAM larvae and that plants upon which few larvae were found may not be suitable hosts for PAM.
Key to the New Zealand species of Psyllaephagus Ashmead (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae) with descriptions of three new species and a new record of the psyllid hyperparasitoid Coccidoctonus psyllae Riek (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae)
Authors: Berry Jocelyn A
Published: April 2007

Abstract  This paper records seven species of wasps in the genus Psyllaephagus (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae) from New Zealand. All of these species are primary parasitoids of psylloids (Hemiptera: Psylloidea). Two are species previously described from New Zealand: P. acaciae Noyes and P. pilosus Noyes. Two are described Australian species which have established recently: P. bliteus Riek and P. gemitus Riek. Three new species are described here, from New Zealand: P. breviramus sp. nov., P. cornwallensis sp. nov. and P. richardhenryi sp. nov. All species are probably Australian in origin. A key to all seven Psyllaephagus species known from New Zealand is provided. An earlier first record of the Australian psyllid hyperparasitoid Coccidoctonus psyllae Riek (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae), previously first recorded from New Zealand in 2006, is noted.
Sociality and sex allocation in an Australian allodapine bee Braunsapis protuberans
Authors: Joyce Narelle C , Schwarz Michael P
Published: April 2007

Abstract  Herein the first detailed study of sociality and life history in an Australian species of the allodapine bee genus Braunsapis is provided. Colonies of B. protuberans were sampled from the Great Sandy National Park in Queensland from late winter until later summer. Single‐female colonies appear to have suffered substantially higher rates of total brood loss, or failure to produce brood, than multifemale colonies, but rearing efficiency in colonies with at least some brood did not differ between these two colony types. There was marked reproductive skew in multifemale colonies and ovary size was strongly linked to relative body size. However, females with smaller body size and smaller ovaries also had lower levels of wing wear, suggesting that they do not specialise in foraging. These patterns are similar to an African species, Braunsapis vitrea, and suggest that colonies may principally comprise a dominant reproductive female who provides food for her juvenile offspring, along with a variable number of subordinate females who may be waiting to inherit their natal nest in the event of their mother's death. However, it is likely that in such events, the remaining female(s) will care for orphaned brood as some single‐female colonies contained substantial older brood, even though the sole female had little or no wing wear. Such alloparental care in the case of orphaning may help explain the high level of female bias in sex ratios.
Weather: driving force behind the transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome in China?
Authors: Bi P. , Wang J , Hiller J. E.
Published: April 2007

Background: The association between weather and severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) transmission in Beijing and Hong Kong in the 2003 epidemic was studied to examine the effect of weather on SARS transmission.

Methods: Pearson’s correlation analyses and negative binomial regression analyses were used to quantify the correlations between the daily newly reported number of SARS cases and weather variables, using daily disease notification data and meteorological data from the two locations.

Results: The results indicate that there were inverse association between the number of daily cases and maximum and/or minimum temperatures whereas air pressure was found to be positively associated with SARS transmission.

Conclusion: The study suggests that weather might be a contributory factor in the 2003 SARS epidemic, in particular in the transmission among the community members.