bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spectrum and infrared intensities of OH-stretching bands of water dimers
Authors: Kuyanov-Prozument Kirill , Choi Myong Yong , Vilesov Andrey F.
Published: January 2010

Water dimers have been assembled in He droplets and studied by infrared laser depletion spectroscopy. All four OH stretching bands of the dimer have been identified in the spectral range 3590–3800 cm−1. Infrared intensities of the bands are also reported. The results are compared with previous measurements and theoretical calculations.
Applying genetic algorithm optimization to a folded geometry acousto-optic modulated spatial pulse shaper
Authors: Nag Amit , Chaphekar Prasad A. , Goswami Debabrata
Published: January 2010

A folded geometry acousto-optic modulator spatial pulse shaper has been designed for shaping individual pulses from a high power amplified laser. The design preserves the capability of computer programmable amplitude and phase modulation of femtosecond laser pulses. An additional application of genetic algorithm optimization approach for compressing a stretched pulse is also demonstrated for such a pulse shaper. Spectrally and temporally resolved optical gating technique is used to characterize the shaped pulses.
Characterization upon potential properties of HfO2 stabilized by Y2O3 films as cubic phase
Authors: Shi Lei , Zhou Yue , Yin Jiang , Liu Zhiguo
Published: January 2010

In this article, we have experimentally investigated the nanometer thick cubic HfO2 stabilized with 6 mol % Y2O3 (YSH) films deposited by pulsed laser deposition method in detail. Except the excellent dielectric properties, including a significant increase in dielectric constant as high as 27.2, a negative flatband voltage of −0.46 V, and a very small loop hysteresis, the YSH film has also shown an obvious response to magnetic field. The saturation magnetization of about 1.3 A m2 kg−1 and 5.8 A m2 kg−1 is presented from the YSH films at 300 K with parallel and perpendicular magnetic field, respectively, which is 20% and 9% larger than that of pure HfO2 film at corresponding magnetic field. It is an indicative approach to control the dielectric properties of hafnium-based oxide films with electric and/or magnetic operation.
Exchange bias in large three dimensional iron oxide nanocomposites
Authors: Morales J. R. , Tanju S. , Beyermann W. P. , Garay J. E.
Published: January 2010

A processing method is presented for the production of macroscopic nanocomposites that display antiferromagnetic/ferrimagnetic (AFM/fM) coupling. The technique takes advantage of the metastability of iron oxide phases and the fast densification of nanocrystalline powders. The total processing time is under 500s. It is possible to manipulate the composition of fM and AFM phases with processing temperature. The relatively high density of AFM/fM boundaries produces an exchange bias caused by coupling at the interfaces. The magnitude of the exchange field (Hex) is affected the composition as well as the grain size; the smaller grain size samples have the highest Hex.
Characterization of the junction capacitance of metal-semiconductor carbon nanotube Schottky contacts
Authors: Tseng Yu-Chih , Bokor Jeffrey
Published: January 2010

Capacitance-voltage measurements have been performed on individual metal-carbon nanotube (CNT) Schottky diodes. The capacitance is found to agree in general with electrostatic simulations, taking into account the one-dimensional density of states of the CNT, and depends strongly on the Schottky barrier height and the diameter of the nanotube. The results indicate that the capacitance-voltage technique can be extended to characterize electrical junctions with very small area.
Hybrid mode-locking in a 40 GHz monolithic quantum dot laser
Authors: Fiol G. , Arsenijević D. , Bimberg D. , Vladimirov A. G. , Wolfrum M. , Viktorov E. A. , Mandel Paul
Published: January 2010

Hybrid mode-locking in monolithic quantum dot (QD) lasers is studied experimentally and theoretically. A strong asymmetry of the locking range with respect to the passive mode locking frequency is observed. The width of this range increases linearly with the modulation amplitude for all operating parameters. Maximum locking range found is 30 MHz. The results of a numerical analysis performed using a set of delay-differential equations taking into account carrier exchange between QDs and wetting layer are in agreement with experiments and indicate that a spectral filtering element could improve locking characteristics.
Epitaxial growth of one-dimensional GaN nanostructures with enhanced near-band edge emission by chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Song Taeseup , Park Won Il , Paik Ungyu
Published: January 2010

We report a simple chemical vapor deposition method for epitaxial growth of hierarchical GaN one-dimensional nanostructures (1DNSs) that have good optical characteristics. By changing the evaporation temperature of the Ga source, we were able to change the morphologies of GaN 1DNSs from hexagonal-faceted, pencil-like structures to rough-surfaced, polygonal towerlike structures. Furthermore, we investigated the correlation between the morphology and the luminescence characteristics of the GaN 1DNSs. Spatially and spectrally resolved cathodoluminescence (CL) measurements revealed that the relative near-band edge emission intensities of the GaN 1DNSs were 8–20 times higher than that of GaN thin film. In addition, pencil-like GaN 1DNSs exhibited 2.5-fold greater CL intensity than polygonal towerlike 1DNSs. These results indicate that controlling the surface morphology of GaN 1DNSs allows improvement in the optical properties of GaN nanostructures.
Chaotic mixing in a Joule-heated glass melt
Authors: Gopalakrishnan Sugilal , Thess André , Weidmann Günter , Lange Ulrich
Published: January 2010

A numerical study of two-dimensional thermal convection of a highly viscous fluid driven by volumetric heating has been carried out to investigate the effect of time-dependent thermal forcing on the degree of mixing. The problem is relevant to electrically heated glass melting furnaces which are traditionally operated with time-independent heating. The numerical computations carried out are for two model fluids representing semitransparent and opaque melts, respectively. Lagrangian motion of passive tracers is numerically simulated and degree of mixing in the glass melt is quantified in terms of mixing entropy. The computed flow patterns indicate that time-dependent streamlines intersect transversely and, thereby, result in well-mixed regions. The stirring mechanism involves the rotational stretching and folding produced by two oscillating vortices with varying size and circulation. The model predictions indicate that the chaotic mixing is strongly dependent on the period of electrode firing cycle. The present investigation demonstrates that time-dependent thermal forcing improves the mixing characteristics of both semitransparent and opaque glass melts significantly.
Efficient spin injection into semiconductor from an Fe/GaOx tunnel injector
Authors: Saito H. , Le Breton J. C. , Zayets V. , Mineno Y. , Yuasa S. , Ando K.
Published: January 2010

We examined the electrical injection of spin-polarized electrons into a GaAs-based light-emitting diode structure from a Fe/GaOx tunnel injector whose electron-charge injection efficiency was comparable to that of a conventional Fe/n+-AlGaAs ohmic injector. A high circular polarization of electroluminescence up to 20% was observed at 2 K. The combination of effective spin-and charge-injection efficiencies makes GaOx a promising tunnel barrier for GaAs-based spintronic devices.
Multilayer structured polymer light emitting diodes with cross-linked polymer matrices
Authors: Zhou Zhang-Lin , Sheng Xia , Nauka K. , Zhao Lihua , Gibson Gary , Lam Sity , Yang Chung Ching , Brug James , Elder Rich
Published: January 2010

Currently, there is great interest in manufacturing multilayer polymer light emitting diode (PLED) structures via low-cost solution-based spin-casting or printing methods. The difficulty with this approach is that solvent from freshly deposited films often dissolves the underlying layers. This letter demonstrates that fully operational multilayer PLED structures can be fabricated via a solution process by embedding the hole transport material in cross-linked inert polymer matrices that protect the functional material while subsequent layers are deposited using the same solvent. The resulting devices exhibited greatly improved quantum efficiency compared with devices that did not employ cross-linked polymer matrices.
Geo Shared Licences: A Base for Better Access to Public Sector Geoinformation for Value-Added Resellers in Europe
Authors: Donker Frederika Welle , van Loenen Bastiaan , Zevenbergen Jaap
Published: January 2010

In a digital age public sector geoinformation (PSGI) is potentially a vital link in the added-value chain. Yet private sector value-added resellers (VARs) still face a number of barriers to using PSGI. Price is only one impediment. The complexity of licences and restrictive licence conditions of PSGI may be an even bigger obstacle. Especially when combining different datasets, VARs can face a quagmire of conflicting licence conditions. Batty (2006 Environment and Planning B: Planning and Design33 163–164) called for research that would stimulate value-added use of PSGI. However, inconsistent and intransparent licence conditions for PSGI are among the biggest obstacles of PSGI for VARs. This paper explores the current PSGI licences to assess the actual restrictions and how current obstacles can be levelled. The Creative Commons licensing concept was explored and adapted to make it suitable for licensing PSGI. The resulting concept of Geo Shared licences is a means to harmonise licence conditions for PSGI. Our research shows that the Geo Shared concept can be a valuable contribution to further harmonisation of PSGI licences and thus development of value-added chains. Furthermore, development of geographic information infrastructures will also be stimulated. Similarly, the concept can be considered as a serious option within the Infrastructure of Spatial Information for Europe (INSPIRE), as a way towards transparent harmonised licences in Europe and beyond.
Architectural Morphospace: Mapping Worlds of Built Forms
Authors: Steadman Philip , Mitchell Linda J
Published: January 2010

A method is proposed for plotting the plans of a large variety of rectangular built forms across a two-dimensional ‘morphospace’ of possibilities. The plans are enumerated by means of a technique of binary coding, such that similar shapes are grouped within distinct areas of this morphospace. Some applications to a geometrical history of building types are sketched, with examples from 19th-century pavilion hospitals, English elementary schools, and early New York skyscrapers. The purpose is to provide classification of built forms, to understand their interrelationships in a systematic way, and to see how building types have followed characteristic ‘morphological trajectories’ through this space of forms. It is a tool with which to approach the history of architecture from a geometrical point of view. It is not primarily conceived as an aid to design: nevertheless the paper concludes with some brief speculations about possible implications for design methods, using genetic algorithms.
Light Location Influences the Perceived Locations of Internal Sounds
Authors: Dellorso Scott , Schirillo James
Published: January 2010

Numerous studies have shown that visual stimuli can bias the perceived location of auditory stimuli. Here, we sought to determine if a visual stimulus can also bias the perceived location of multiple internal auditory stimuli. Fifty subjects were presented with a train of eight binaural click-pairs over headphones while a single flash of light was presented either to the left or to the right side of a central fixation point on an otherwise black CRT screen. A no-flash baseline was also implemented, as was a no-fixation control. The subjects used a rating scale to indicate the perceived location of each of the eight click-pairs within their heads. The results showed that the flash of light significantly influenced the perceived location of the click-pairs, biasing them in the same direction as the flash of light. This suggests that, even without perceptual correspondence, cross-modal interactions can occur.
Estimating least-developed countries’ vulnerability to climate-related extreme events over the next 50 years
Authors: Patt Anthony G. , Tadross Mark , Nussbaumer Patrick , Asante Kwabena , Metzger Marc , Rafael Jose , Goujon Anne , Brundrit Geoff
Published: January 2010

When will least developed countries be most vulnerable to climate change, given the influence of projected socio-economic development? The question is important, not least because current levels of international assistance to support adaptation lag more than an order of magnitude below what analysts estimate to be needed, and scaling up support could take many years. In this paper, we examine this question using an empirically derived model of human losses to climate-related extreme events, as an indicator of vulnerability and the need for adaptation assistance. We develop a set of 50-year scenarios for these losses in one country, Mozambique, using high-resolution climate projections, and then extend the results to a sample of 23 least-developed countries. Our approach takes into account both potential changes in countries’ exposure to climatic extreme events, and socio-economic development trends that influence countries’ own adaptive capacities. Our results suggest that the effects of socio-economic development trends may begin to offset rising climate exposure in the second quarter of the century, and that it is in the period between now and then that vulnerability will rise most quickly. This implies an urgency to the need for international assistance to finance adaptation.
To Get Involved or Not: The Relation among Extracurricular Involvement, Satisfaction, and Academic Achievement
Authors: Strapp Chehalis M. , Farr Rebecca J.
Published: January 2010

This study examined the relation among extracurricular involvement in psychology-related activities, satisfaction, and academic achievement in graduating psychology majors. We surveyed 71 seniors (53 women and 18 men, Mage = 24.84 years) about their involvement in psychology-related activities (e.g., Psi Chi, serving as a research assistant), satisfaction with experiences as a psychology major, and grade point average (GPA). Involvement was related to satisfaction and GPA, but satisfaction was not related to GPA. Different types of involvement were associated with various aspects of satisfaction with the psychology major. Recommendations for advising students to “get involved” are discussed.
Development and Implementation of an Online Careers Seminar in Psychology
Authors: Brinthaupt Thomas M.
Published: January 2010

Psychology departments are increasing their attention to providing career options and guidance for majors. I review the literature on the use of career courses in psychology and describe the development and implementation of an online careers seminar that provides psychology majors and minors with a wide range of information and resources. Student evaluative feedback of the course is uniformly positive. I conclude with suggestions for how departments can develop and individualize such a course to meet their specific needs.
The relationship between non‐marital fathers' social networks and social capital and father involvement
Authors: Castillo Jason T. , Fenzl‐Crossman Ashley
Published: January 2010

Literature and research examining father involvement has focused primarily on outcomes associated with the well‐being and development of children. Receiving limited attention in this literature has been the examination of the contextual factors associated with fathers and how these factors shape fathers' involvement with their young children. Addressing this limitation, this study focuses on the intra‐ and interdependent networks non‐marital fathers maintain and utilize in fulfilling their parental responsibilities of father involvement. Results of the regression models indicate that non‐marital fathers' relationship with their former spouse or partner and involvement with informal networks is positively associated with their involvement with young children. Policy and practice implications are discussed.
Regulation of eotaxin‐3/CCL26 expression in human monocytic cells
Authors: Stubbs Victoria E. L. , Power Christopher , Patel Kamala D.
Published: January 2010

Eotaxin‐3/CCL26 is an agonist for chemokine receptor 3 (CCR3) and a natural antagonist for CCR1, CCR2 and CCR5. CCL26 expression by non‐haematopoietic cells has been well documented; however, no studies to date have demonstrated CCL26 expression by leucocytes. In this study, we investigated the ability of human monocytic cells to produce CCL26 in response to cytokines. We found that interleukin‐4 (IL‐4) increased the expression of CCL26 messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein in U937 cells, in human monocytes and in human monocyte‐derived macrophages. Tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) and interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) alone did not induce CCL26 expression, yet these pro‐inflammatory cytokines synergized with IL‐4 to increase CCL26 protein expression. Signal transducer and activator of transcription 6 (STAT6) was not affected by costimulation with TNF‐α, suggesting that the synergy between IL‐4 and TNF‐α occurs at a step downstream of STAT6 activation. Co‐incubation of interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) with IL‐4 had no effect on CCL26 protein release. By contrast, pretreatment with IFN‐γ decreased total STAT6 protein, blocked IL‐4‐mediated STAT6 phosphorylation and decreased IL‐4‐mediated CCL26 mRNA expression and protein release. These data show that IL‐4 and pro‐inflammatory cytokines such as TNF‐α, IL‐1β and IFN‐γ regulate CCL26 synthesis in human monocytic cells, which may be important in regulating monocyte inflammatory responses.
Partial and transient modulation of the CD3–T‐cell receptor complex, elicited by low‐dose regimens of monoclonal anti‐CD3, is sufficient to induce disease remission in non‐obese diabetic mice
Authors: Mehta Devangi S. , Christmas Rudy A. , Waldmann Herman , Rosenzweig Michael
Published: January 2010

It has been established that a total of 250 μg of monoclonal anti‐mouse CD3 F(ab′)2 fragments, administered daily (50 μg per dose), induces remission of diabetes in the non‐obese diabetic (NOD) mouse model of autoimmune diabetes by preventing β cells from undergoing further autoimmune attack. We evaluated lower‐dose regimens of monoclonal anti‐CD3 F(ab′)2 in diabetic NOD mice for their efficacy and associated pharmacodynamic (PD) effects, including CD3–T‐cell receptor (TCR) complex modulation, complete blood counts and proportions of circulating CD4+, CD8+ and CD4+ FoxP3+ T cells. Four doses of 2 μg (total dose 8 μg) induced 53% remission of diabetes, similarly to the 250 μg dose regimen, whereas four doses of 1 μg induced only 16% remission. While the 250 μg dose regimen produced nearly complete and sustained modulation of the CD3 –TCR complex, lower doses, spaced 3 days apart, which induced similar remission rates, elicited patterns of transient and partial modulation. In treated mice, the proportions of circulating CD4+ and CD8+ T cells decreased, whereas the proportions of CD4+ FoxP3+ T cells increased; these effects were transient. Mice with greater residual β‐cell function, estimated using blood glucose and C‐peptide levels at the initiation of treatment, were more likely to enter remission than mice with more advanced disease. Thus, lower doses of monoclonal anti‐CD3 that produced only partial and transient modulation of the CD3–TCR complex induced remission rates comparable to higher doses of monoclonal anti‐CD3. Accordingly, in a clinical setting, lower‐dose regimens may be efficacious and may also improve the safety profile of therapy with monoclonal anti‐CD3, potentially including reductions in cytokine release‐related syndromes and maintenance of pathogen‐specific immunosurveillance during treatment.
1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3 enhances the ability of transferred CD4+ CD25+ cells to modulate T helper type 2‐driven asthmatic responses
Authors: Gorman Shelley , Judge Melinda A. , Burchell Jennifer T. , Turner Debra J. , Hart Prue H.
Published: January 2010

The severity of allergic diseases may be modified by vitamin D. However, the immune pathways modulated by the active form of vitamin D, 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1,25(OH)2D3], are yet to be fully elucidated. In this study, naturally occurring CD4+ CD25+ cells from the skin‐draining lymph nodes (SDLN) of mice treated with topical 1,25(OH)2D3 had an increased ability to suppress T helper type 2 (Th2) ‐skewed immune responses. CD4+ CD25+ cells transferred from mice treated with topical 1,25(OH)2D3 into ovalbumin (OVA) ‐sensitized mice challenged intranasally with OVA 18 hr later, significantly suppressed the capacity of airway‐draining lymph node (ADLN) cells to proliferate and secrete cytokines in response to further OVA stimulation ex vivo. The CD4+ CD25+ cells from 1,25(OH)2D3‐treated mice also reduced airway hyperresponsiveness and the proportions of neutrophils and eosinophils in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). To test the effect of 1,25(OH)2D3 on cells able to respond to a specific antigen, CD4+ CD25+ cells were purified from the SDLN of OVA‐T‐cell receptor (TCR) transgenic mice treated 4 days earlier with topical 1,25(OH)2D3. CD4+ CD25+ cells from OVA‐TCR mice treated with 1,25(OH)2D3 were able to alter BALF cell content and suppress ADLN responses to a similar degree to those cells from non‐transgenic mice, suggesting that the effect of 1,25(OH)2D3 was not related to TCR signalling. In summary, topical 1,25(OH)2D3 increased the regulatory capacity of CD4+ CD25+ cells from the SDLN to suppress Th2‐mediated allergic airway disease. This work highlights how local 1,25(OH)2D3 production by lung epithelial cells may modulate the suppressive activity of local regulatory T cells.
HREM characterization of nano‐composite Au/SiO2 layers
Authors: MORGIEL J. , FERRARIS M. , JANUS A. M. , CHIARETTA D. , POMORSKA M.
Published: January 2010

Nano‐composite layers of Au nano‐crystallites embedded in amorphous silica matrix were obtained by a radio‐frequency co‐sputtering technique. Glass or single crystal silicon wafers were chosen as substrates. After deposition, the layers were heat treated at 900°C for 60 min. Microstructure of the layers was investigated using a TECNAI G2 FEG SuperTwin (200 kV) transmission electron microscope. Thin foils were cut using a focused ion beam Quanta 3D. The investigations confirmed that the applied process allowed obtaining nano‐composite layers containing spherical Au crystallites of average size of ∼3 nm embedded in an amorphous silica matrix. Some of the nano‐crystallites were twinned. The layers were heat treated in subsequent step and rise of the crystallite average size up to 5.5 nm confirming activation of diffusion processes was seen. Presence of irregularly shaped Au crystallites in the latter layers indicates incomplete sintering due to short annealing time.
Analgesic efficacy of subcutaneous local anaesthetic wound infiltration in bilateral knee arthroplasty: a randomised, placebo‐controlled, double‐blind trial
Authors: ANDERSEN L. Ø. , HUSTED H. , KRISTENSEN B. B. , OTTE K. S. , GAARN‐LARSEN L. , KEHLET H.
Published: January 2010

Background: High‐volume wound local infiltration analgesia is effective in knee arthroplasty, but the analgesic efficacy of subcutaneous wound infiltration has not been evaluated.

Methods: In a randomised, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial in 16 patients undergoing bilateral knee arthroplasty with high‐volume local infiltration analgesia in the deeper layers, saline or ropivacaine 2 mg/ml was infiltrated into the subcutaneous part of the wound in each knee along with the placement of multi‐fenestrated catheters in the subcutaneous wound layers in both knees. Pain was assessed for 6 h post‐operatively and for 3 h after a bolus injection given through the catheter 24 h post‐operatively.

Results: Visual analogue scale (VAS) pain scores were significantly lower from the knee infiltrated with ropivacaine compared with the knee infiltrated with saline in the subcutaneous layer of the wound, at rest (P<0.02), with flexion of the knee (P<0.04) and when the leg was straight and elevated (P<0.04). Twenty‐four hours post‐operatively, a decline in the VAS pain scores was observed in both groups, with no statistically significant difference between injection of ropivacaine or saline in the subcutaneously placed catheters (P>0.05).

Conclusion: As part of a total wound infiltration analgesia intraoperative subcutaneous infiltration with ropivacaine in bilateral total knee arthroplasty is effective in early post‐operative pain management, while a post‐operative subcutaneous bolus administration through a multiholed catheter 24 h post‐operatively did not show improved analgesia compared with the administration of saline.
Procedural pain of an ultrasound‐guided brachial plexus block: a comparison of axillary and infraclavicular approaches
Authors: FREDERIKSEN B. S. , KOSCIELNIAK‐NIELSEN Z. J. , JACOBSEN R. B. , RASMUSSEN H. , HESSELBJERG L.
Published: January 2010

Background: Ultrasound (US)‐guided infraclavicular (IC) and axillary (AX) blocks have similar effectiveness. Therefore, limiting procedural pain may help to choose a standard approach. The primary aims of this randomized study were to assess patient's pain during the block and to recognize its cause.

Methods: Eighty patients were randomly allocated to the IC or the AX group. A blinded investigator asked the patients to quantify block pain on a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS 0–100) and to indicate the most unpleasant component (needle passes, paraesthesie or local anaesthetics injection). Sensory block was assessed every 10 min. After 30 min, the unblocked nerves were supplemented. Patients were ready for surgery when they had analgesia or anaesthesia of the five nerves distal to the elbow. Preliminary scan time, block performance and latency times, readiness for surgery, adverse events and patient's acceptance were recorded.

Results: The axillary approach resulted in lower maximum VAS scores (median 12) than the infraclavicular approach (median 21). This difference was not statistically significant (P=0.07). Numbers of patients indicating the most painful component were similar in both groups. Patients in either group were ready for surgery after 25 min. Two patients in the IC group and seven in the AX group needed block supplementation (n.s.). Block performance times and number of needle passes were significantly lower in the IC group. Patients' acceptance was 98% in both groups.

Conclusions: We did not find significant differences between the two approaches in procedural pain and patient's acceptance. The choice of approach may depend on the anaesthesiologist's experience and the patient's preferences.
Experimental Addition of Green Plants to the Nest Increases Testosterone Levels in Female Spotless Starlings
Authors: Polo Vicente , López‐Rull Isabel , Gil Diego , Veiga José P.
Published: January 2010

Multiple male traits and displays may act in signalling sexually selected processes during courtship. Spotless starling males (Sturnus unicolor) carry green plants into their nests before egg laying, and recent studies have shown that this behaviour is related to female breeding decisions and the production of male‐biased broods. Although the functional implications of this effect on females are not yet clear, data suggest that it could be mediated by female circulating hormones. Additionally, females may show higher androgen levels as a consequence of the increased female–female competition generated by the increase in male attractiveness. We tested this hypothesis using the same manipulation of green nesting material that has been previously shown to result in an increase of male attractiveness in male spotless starlings. We found that females in experimental nests increased their circulating testosterone levels during the laying period. In addition, there was an increase of social interferences in the experimental nests because of the addition of green plants. We hypothesise that testosterone may allow females to maintain their mating status when competing with other females for the preferred males. Addition of green plants also increased the variance in the levels of circulating testosterone, suggesting plasticity between females in their response to the manipulation. We propose that there is a functional link between high testosterone levels, male‐biased sex ratios and female resource‐holding potential in intra‐sexual competition in this species.
Influence of marital and educational status on clients' psychosocial adjustment to HIV/AIDS in Calabar, Nigeria
Authors: Akpabio Idongesit I. , Uyanah David A. , Osuchukwu Nelson C. , Samson‐Akpan Patience E.
Published: January 2010

A comparative descriptive design and a stratified random sampling technique were adopted to study the influence of marital and educational status on the psychological, social, and spiritual adjustment of 280 respondents living with HIV/AIDS in two randomly selected clinics within Calabar, Nigeria. A 30 item questionnaire, with a content validity index of 0.92 and a Cronbach's alpha reliability coefficient of 0.94, was used for data collection, with due attention to ethical considerations. The findings showed that marital status had a significant influence on the respondents' psychological and social adjustment but not on their spiritual adjustment. Those that were married and those with higher educational qualifications had better psychological adjustment than those who had never married. The marital and educational status of clients should be considered when conducting education or counseling, making recommendations, or organizing support groups for living with HIV/AIDS. Furthermore, advocacy aimed at meeting the psychosocial needs of single and less‐educated clients could enhance their psychosocial adjustment.
THE INFLUENCE OF FUNDAMENTALS ON EXCHANGE RATES: FINDINGS FROM ANALYSES OF NEWS EFFECTS
Authors: Rebitzky Rafael R.
Published: January 2010

Abstract As we survey the literature of macroeconomic news in the foreign exchange market, we can by now look back on nearly 30 years of research. The first studies which analysed news effects on exchange rates were established in the early 1990s (see, for example, Dornbusch). Almost at the same time Meese and Rogoff published their influential paper, revealing the forecasting inferiority in exchange rates of structural models against the random walk. This finding has shocked the pillars of exchange rate economics and thus cast general suspicion on research focusing on fundamentals in this field. The eventual rising popularity of event studies can partly be attributed to the re‐establishment of the raison d’être of exchange rate economics. This work focuses on systematically surveying this literature with particular respect to its primary goal, i.e. shedding light on the analytical value of fundamental research. Thus, its major findings are, first, fundamental news does matter, whereas non‐fundamental news matters to a lesser degree. Second, news influences exchange rates via two separated channels, i.e. incorporating common information into prices directly or indirectly based upon order flow. Third, with a few exceptions the impact of fundamental news on exchange rates is fairly stable over time.
Selection of priority groups for obesity prevention: current approaches and development of an evidence‐informed framework
Authors: Nichols M. S. , Swinburn B. A.
Published: January 2010

Resources for obesity prevention interventions are inevitably limited, necessitating the selection of priority groups to ensure effective and equitable use of funds. This paper aims to review published approaches to selection of priority groups (‘target populations’) for obesity prevention, and to present the development of a new systematic framework for organizing and assessing evidence for selecting priority groups. A review was conducted of the process and justification described for selecting priority groups in a sample of obesity prevention publications. Using the results of this review and adaptation of theory and frameworks in both the obesity prevention and health promotion priority‐setting literature, a framework was developed for assessment of potential priority groups for obesity prevention. The published literature lacks discussion of and explicit processes for selection of priority groups for obesity prevention intervention. The new framework describes specific types of evidence that should be considered in the assessment of a potential priority group for obesity prevention and has applications for funding and implementing community‐based or settings‐level obesity prevention interventions and research. Application of this framework has the potential to enhance the effective use of limited obesity prevention resources and to identify areas in need of additional research evidence.
Accuracy of simple clinical and epidemiological definitions of childhood obesity: systematic review and evidence appraisal
Authors: Reilly J. J. , Kelly J. , Wilson D. C.
Published: January 2010

The optimum means of defining obesity in children is unclear, creating variation in practice, and hindering obesity surveillance, prevention and treatment. This study aimed to review evidence on the use of body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference for diagnosis of high body fat content and adverse cardiometabolic risk factors in children and adolescents. A systematic literature review was carried out and evidence appraised using the Quality Assessment of Studies of Diagnostic Accuracy in Systematic Reviews method. Literature searching began following the last systematic review of this topic (end 2001) and collected evidence in MEDLINE and EMBASE in 0‐ to 18‐year‐olds that compared the accuracy of BMI vs. waist circumference and compared BMI interpreted relative to national reference data vs. BMI interpreted relative to Cole/International Obesity Task Force international reference data. Ten studies compared diagnostic accuracy of BMI vs. waist circumference: they reported no improved identification of adverse cardiometabolic risk profiles from waist circumference over that provided by high BMI. Eight studies compared BMI with national reference data vs. the international approach: 5/8 found significantly poorer accuracy (lower sensitivity) using BMI with the international approach; 3/8 found similar sensitivity; in 7/7 studies that compared specificity this was similar. In conclusion, the present review provides no compelling evidence for use of either high waist circumference or BMI interpreted using the International Obesity Task Force approach in preference to the use of national BMI percentiles for the identification of children and adolescents with excess fatness and adverse cardiometabolic risk profile.
The Transverse Instability of Periodic Waves in Zakharov–Kuznetsov Type Equations
Authors: Johnson Mathew A.
Published: January 2010

In this paper, we investigate the instability of one‐dimensionally stable periodic traveling wave solutions of the generalized Korteweg‐de Vries equation to long wavelength transverse perturbations in the generalized Zakharov–Kuznetsov equation in two space dimensions. By deriving appropriate asymptotic expansions of the periodic Evans function, we derive an index which yields sufficient conditions for transverse instabilities to occur. This index is geometric in nature, and applies to any periodic traveling wave profile under some minor smoothness assumptions on the nonlinearity. We also describe the analogous theory for periodic traveling waves of the generalized Benjamin–Bona–Mahony equation to long wavelength transverse perturbations in the gBBM–Zakharov–Kuznetsov equation.
Sparse Partial Least Squares Regression for Simultaneous Dimension Reduction and Variable Selection
Authors: Chun Hyonho , Keleş Sündüz
Published: January 2010

Partial least squares regression has been an alternative to ordinary least squares for handling multicollinearity in several areas of scientific research since the 1960s. It has recently gained much attention in the analysis of high dimensional genomic data. We show that known asymptotic consistency of the partial least squares estimator for a univariate response does not hold with the very large p and small n paradigm. We derive a similar result for a multivariate response regression with partial least squares. We then propose a sparse partial least squares formulation which aims simultaneously to achieve good predictive performance and variable selection by producing sparse linear combinations of the original predictors. We provide an efficient implementation of sparse partial least squares regression and compare it with well-known variable selection and dimension reduction approaches via simulation experiments. We illustrate the practical utility of sparse partial least squares regression in a joint analysis of gene expression and genomewide binding data.
Combining Information from Multiple Surveys by using Regression for Efficient Small Domain Estimation
Authors: Merkouris Takis
Published: January 2010

In sample surveys of finite populations, subpopulations for which the sample size is too small for estimation of adequate precision are referred to as small domains. Demand for small domain estimates has been growing in recent years among users of survey data. We explore the possibility of enhancing the precision of domain estimators by combining comparable information collected in multiple surveys of the same population. For this, we propose a regression method of estimation that is essentially an extended calibration procedure whereby comparable domain estimates from the various surveys are calibrated to each other. We show through analytic results and an empirical study that this method may greatly improve the precision of domain estimators for the variables that are common to these surveys, as these estimators make effective use of increased sample size for the common survey items. The design-based direct estimators proposed involve only domain-specific data on the variables of interest. This is in contrast with small domain (mostly small area) indirect estimators, based on a single survey, which incorporate through modelling data that are external to the targeted small domains. The approach proposed is also highly effective in handling the closely related problem of estimation for rare population characteristics.
Class, Capital and Crisis: A Return to Fundamentals
Authors: Burnham Peter
Published: January 2010

The financial crisis that currently threatens the stability of global capitalism is the latest in a long line of similar episodes stretching back some 200 years. While many orthodox economists explain the crisis in terms of the failure of the proper operation of the market mechanism, radical accounts see crisis as an aspect of the constitution of capital and of the process of the accumulation of capital itself. This article explores the extent to which Marx's understanding of accumulation and crisis can provide the basis for a general theory of capitalist crisis. It concludes that the growing and chronic separation between financial (fictitious) accumulation and productive accumulation is the key to understanding the latest crisis of capital expressed as a global credit crunch. Furthermore, Marx opens the door to the development of an overtly ‘political’ theory of crisis stressing the ‘capitalist use of crisis’ as a means for the violent reassertion of the fundamental class relation.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Immunocontraceptive Effect of DNA Vaccine Targeting Fertilin β in Male Mice
Authors: Sun Zhongyi , Jin Fengshuo , Li Yanfeng , Zhang Jun
Published: January 2010

Citation Sun Z, Jin F, Li Y, Zhang J. Immunocontraceptive effect of DNA vaccine targeting fertilin β in male mice. Am J Reprod Immunol 2010; 63: 282–290

Problem  In previous study, two eukaryotic expression plasmids pSG.SS.YL‐Fβ.ECD and pSG.SS.C3d3.YL‐Fβ.ECD were successfully constructed and transfected in HEK293 cells. Now, we want to evaluate the immunocontraceptive effect of these two DNA vaccines that target the extracellular domain (Fβ.ECD) of sperm antigen fertilin β subunit in Kunming male mice.

Method of study  DNA vaccines pSG.SS.YL‐Fβ.ECD and pSG.SS.C3d3.YL‐Fβ.ECD were injected into Kunming male mice three times at 0, 4, and 8 weeks, respectively. An antifertility effect was observed. Serum antibody and cytokines were also detected.

Results  Both vaccines significantly decreased both the pregnancy rate and the number of newborns. The serum levels of IL‐2 and INF‐γ significantly decreased, whereas the levels of IL‐4 and IL‐10 significantly increased. Compared with pSG.SS.YL‐Fβ.ECD, pSG.SS.C3d3.YL‐Fβ.ECD was more effective in birth control, and its specific Fβ‐IgG antibody titer in serum was significantly higher and longer.

Conclusion  The results indicate that both pSG.SS.YL‐Fβ.ECD and pSG.SS.C3d3.YL‐Fβ.ECD DNA vaccines are effective in birth control of mice. The immunocontraceptive effect of Fβ.ECD DNA vaccine in male mice is improved with the addition of immuno‐adjuvant C3d3.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Expression of IL‐6, IL‐8, TNF‐α, IL‐10, HSP‐60, Anti‐HSP‐60 Antibodies, and Anti‐sperm Antibodies, in Semen of Men with Leukocytes and/or Bacteria
Authors: Martínez‐Prado Elizabeth , Camejo Bermúdez María Isabel
Published: January 2010

Citation Martínez‐Prado E, Bermúdez MIC. Expression of IL‐6, IL‐8, TNF‐α, IL‐10, HSP‐60, anti‐HSP‐60 antibodies, and anti‐sperm antibodies, in semen of men with leukocytes and/or bacteria. Am J Reprod Immunol 2010; 63: 233–243

Problem  Different cellular and biochemical markers have been proposed as indicators of infection‐inflammation of male genital tract.

Method of study  Semen samples from 80 men attending an andrologic clinic were evaluated to determine the presence of leukocyte, bacteria, antibodies against Chlamydia trachomatis, levels of IL‐6, IL‐8, IL‐10, and TNF‐α, HSP‐60, anti‐HSP‐60 antibodies, and anti‐sperm antibodies.

Results  Leukocytes in semen significantly correlated with an increase in IL‐6, IL‐8, and TNF‐α. The simultaneous presence of pathogens and leukocytes was associated with high levels of IL‐8 and TNF‐α, whereas IL‐6 was more associated with the presence of leukocytes. Anti‐HSP‐60 antibodies positively correlated with IL‐6 and IL‐8. The presence of anti‐sperm antibodies highly associated with an increase in anti‐HSP‐60 antibodies.

Conclusions  The type of cytokines present in the semen will depend on the single or simultaneous presence of leukocytes and/or pathogens. Chronic male genital tract infections could be associated with the development of anti‐HSP‐60 antibodies and anti‐sperm antibodies.
Voltage‐gated sodium channel isoform‐specific effects of pompilidotoxins
Authors: Schiavon Emanuele , Stevens Marijke , Zaharenko André J. , Konno Katsuhiro , Tytgat Jan , Wanke Enzo
Published: January 2010

Pompilidotoxins (PMTXs, α and β) are small peptides consisting of 13 amino acids purified from the venom of the solitary wasps Anoplius samariensis (α‐PMTX) and Batozonellus maculifrons (β‐PMTX). They are known to facilitate synaptic transmission in the lobster neuromuscular junction, and to slow sodium channel inactivation. By using β‐PMTX, α‐PMTX and four synthetic analogs with amino acid changes, we conducted a thorough study of the effects of PMTXs on sodium current inactivation in seven mammalian voltage‐gated sodium channel (VGSC) isoforms and one insect VGSC (DmNav1). By evaluating three components of which the inactivating current is composed (fast, slow and steady‐state components), we could distinguish three distinct groups of PMTX effects. The first group concerned the insect and Nav1.6 channels, which showed a large increase in the steady‐state current component without any increase in the slow component. Moreover, the dose‐dependent increase in this steady‐state component was correlated with the dose‐dependent decrease in the fast component. A second group of effects concerned the Nav1.1, Nav1.2, Nav1.3 and Nav1.7 isoforms, which responded with a large increase in the slow component, and showed only a small steady‐state component. As with the first group of effects, the slow component was dose‐dependent and correlated with the decrease in the fast component. Finally, a third group of effects concerned Nav1.4 and Nav1.5, which did not show any change in the slow or steady‐state component. These data shed light on the complex and intriguing behavior of VGSCs in response to PMTXs, helping us to better understand the molecular determinants explaining isoform‐specific effects.
Gene Transfer of TRPC6DN (Dominant Negative) Restores Erectile Function in Diabetic Rats
Authors: Jung Jae Hun , Kim Byung Joo , Chae Mee Ree , Kam Sung Chul , Jeon Ju-Hong , So Insuk , Chung Ky Hyun , Lee Sung Won
Published: January 2010

Introduction

Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels play an important role in modulating intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) levels.

Aim

We examined the hypothesis that overexpression of TRPC6DN (dominant negative) may contribute to decreased [Ca2+]i levels in corporal smooth muscle (CSM). We also investigated whether gene transfer of TRPC6DN could restore erectile function in diabetic rats.

Methods

For the in vitro study, the KCa, KATP, and TRPC6DN channel genes were transferred using cDNA, into cultured human CSM cells and human embryonic kidney cells. For the in vivo study, young adult rats were divided into three groups: normal controls; diabetic controls transfected with vector only; and a diabetic group transfected with pcDNA of the TRPC6DN gene.

Main Outcome Measures

After gene transfer, the effects of reducing [Ca2+]i levels were assessed by Fura-2-based imaging analysis. The intracavernosal pressure (ICP) response to cavernosal nerve stimulation was assessed after intracorporal injection of TRPC6DN pcDNA. The transgene expression of the TRPC6DN was examined by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) in rats transfected with TRPC6DN pcDNA.

Results

Gene transfer of ion channels effectively reduced [Ca2+]i. Among these channels, transfer of the TRPC6DN gene resulted in the greatest reduction of [Ca2+]i in human CSM. The mean (±standard error of the mean) ratio of ICP to mean arterial pressure (BP) in the gene-transfer rats was 79.4 ± 2.4% (N=8). This was significantly higher than that in control rats (55.6 ± 3.7% [N=8]), and similar to that in the young control rats (83 ± 2.2% [N=12]). The RT-PCR showed expression of TRPC6DN genes in the transfected rats.

Conclusion

Gene transfer of TRPC6DN not only reduced [Ca2+]i in human CSM but also restored erectile function in diabetic rats. These results suggest that pcDNA transfer of TRPC6DN may represent a promising new form of therapy for the treatment of male erectile dysfunction in the future. Jung JH, Kim BJ, Chae MR, Kam SC, Jeon J-H, So I, Chung KH, and Lee SW. Gene transfer of TRPC6DN (dominant negative) restores erectile function in diabetic rats.