bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-resolution infrared spectrum of jet-cooled methyl acetate in the C=O stretching region: Internal rotations of two inequivalent methyl tops
Authors: Sunahori Fumie X. , Borho Nicole , Liu Xunchen , Xu Yunjie
Published: December 2011

The jet-cooled high resolution infrared (IR) spectrum of methyl acetate (MA), CH3–C(=O)–O–CH3, in the C=O fundamental band region was recorded by using a rapid scan IR laser spectrometer equipped with an astigmatic multipass cell. No high resolution IR analyses of the ro-vibrational transitions between the ground and non-torsionally excited vibrational states have hitherto been reported for molecules with two inequivalent methyl rotors. Because of the two chemically different methyl tops in MA, i.e., the acetyl –CH3 and methoxy –CH3, each rotational energy level is split into more than two torsional sublevels by internal rotations of these methyl groups. We were able to assign ro-vibrational transitions of four torsional species by using the ground state combination differences calculated from the molecular constants of the vibrational ground state recently determined by a global fit of the microwave and millimeter wave lines [M. Tudorie, I. Kleiner, J. T. Hougen, S. Melandri, L. W. Sutikdja, and W. Stahl, J. Mol. Spectrosc. 269, 211 (2011)]. The assigned lines were successfully fitted using the BELGI-Cs-IR program to an overall standard deviation which is comparable to the measurement accuracy. This study is also of interest in understanding the role of methyl rotors in the intramolecular vibrational-energy redistribution processes in mid-size organic molecules.
Analysis of hysteresis characteristics of silicon nanowire biosensors in aqueous environment
Authors: Jang Hyeri , Lee Jieun , Han Lee Jung , Seo Sungmin , Park Byung-Gook , Myong Kim Dong , Hwan Kim Dae , Chung In-Young
Published: December 2011

The hysteresis phenomenon has been widely observed in transfer characteristics of silicon nanowire (SiNW) biosensor devices in aqueous environment. Considering the experimental observation in the change of the liquid potential due to the charge flow through the oxide layer, we build up an electrical model for the biosensor system with the solution, SiNW, dielectric oxide, and the back-gated substrate, and investigate the hysteresis behavior based on the model.
Nonlinear super integrable Hamiltonian couplings
Authors: You Fucai
Published: December 2011

Based on a kind of new Lie superalgebras, we proposed a scheme for constructing nonlinear super integrable couplings. Super trace identity over the corresponding loop superalgebras is used to furnish the super Hamiltonian structures for the resulting nonlinear super integrable couplings. We illustrate the application of the scheme by means of an enlarged super Ablowitz-Kaup-Newell-Segur (AKNS) matrix spectral problem and present a nonlinear super integrable Hamiltonian couplings for the super AKNS hierarchy.
Flow-enhanced transient response in whispering gallery mode biosensors
Authors: Gamba Jason M. , Flagan Richard C.
Published: December 2011

Whispering gallery mode (WGM) optical resonator sensors are an extremely sensitive label-free technology for detecting the binding of biomolecules in solution. To better understand the fast transient response observed with these devices, we model mass transfer to spherical and toroidal WGM sensors of identical outer radius. Finite element simulations predict a 3-10 fold higher binding frequency for toroidal sensors. These results agree to within an order of magnitude with experimental data from the literature and suggest a design strategy to improve the transient response of a sensor by making the device small only in the dimension that governs boundary layer development.
Higher order parametric excitation modes for spaceborne quadrupole mass spectrometers
Authors: Gershman D. J. , Block B. P. , Rubin M. , Benna M. , Mahaffy P. R. , Zurbuchen T. H.
Published: December 2011

This paper describes a technique to significantly improve upon the mass peak shape and mass resolution of spaceborne quadrupole mass spectrometers (QMSs) through higher order auxiliary excitation of the quadrupole field. Using a novel multiresonant tank circuit, additional frequency components can be used to drive modulating voltages on the quadrupole rods in a practical manner, suitable for both improved commercial applications and spaceflight instruments. Auxiliary excitation at frequencies near twice that of the fundamental quadrupole RF frequency provides the advantages of previously studied parametric excitation techniques, but with the added benefit of increased sensed excitation amplitude dynamic range and the ability to operate voltage scan lines through the center of upper stability islands. Using a field programmable gate array, the amplitudes and frequencies of all QMS signals are digitally generated and managed, providing a robust and stable voltage control system. These techniques are experimentally verified through an interface with a commercial Pfeiffer QMG422 quadrupole rod system. When operating through the center of a stability island formed from higher order auxiliary excitation, approximately 50% and 400% improvements in 1% mass resolution and peak stability were measured, respectively, when compared with traditional QMS operation. Although tested with a circular rod system, the presented techniques have the potential to improve the performance of both circular and hyperbolic rod geometry QMS sensors.
High pressure structural stability of BaLiF3
Authors: Mishra A. K. , Garg Nandini , Shanavas K. V. , Achary S. N. , Tyagi A. K. , Sharma Surinder M.
Published: December 2011

High pressure x-ray diffraction studies on inverse-perovskite BaLiF3 show that this compound is structurally stable up to ∼50 GPa. The bulk modulus of BaLiF3 is determined to be 75.9 GPa which is in close agreement with that determined from a semi-empirical formulation. Our ab initio calculations show that among the three alkaline earth fluoro perovskites (ALiF3, A = Ba, Ca, and Sr) which crystallize in the inverse-perovskite structure, BaLiF3 is the least brittle at ambient conditions and also that the degree of brittleness decreases at high pressures. The behavior of the elastic constants at high pressure accompanied by a reduction in the bandgap indicates a decrease in the directional nature of the bonding.
Molecular dynamics studies of the bonding properties of amorphous silicon nitride coatings on crystalline silicon
Authors: Butler Keith T. , Lamers Machteld P. W. E. , Weeber Arthur W. , Harding John H.
Published: December 2011

In this paper we present molecular dynamics simulations of silicon nitride, both in bulk and as an interface to crystalline silicon. We investigate, in particular, the bonding structure of the silicon nitride and analyze the simulations to search for defective geometries which have been identified as potential charge carrier traps when silicon nitride forms an interface with silicon semiconductors. The simulations reveal how the bonding patterns in silicon nitride are dependent upon the stoichiometry of the system. Furthermore we demonstrate how having an “interphase”, where the nitrogen content in silicon gradually reduces toward pure silicon across a boundary region, as opposed to an interface where there is an abrupt drop in nitrogen concentration at the boundary, can result in significantly different numbers of certain important carrier trap.
Observation of longitudinal-optic-phonon-plasmon-coupled mode in n-type AlGaN alloy films
Authors: Gon Kim Jung , Kimura Atsuhito , Kamei Yasuhito , Hasuike Noriyuki , Harima Hiroshi , Kisoda Kenji , Shimahara Yuki , Miyake Hideto , Hiramatsu Kazumasa
Published: December 2011

An longitudinal-optic-phonon-plasmon coupled mode (LOPC) has been clearly observed by Raman scattering in n-type AlxGa1−xN films with x ∼ 0.67 and different carrier densities n = 1 × 1017-9 × 1017 cm−3. The A1-LO-phonon mode showed a systematic frequency shift and broadening with increasing n. This is a characteristic behavior of LOPC as previously observed in n-type binary semiconductors. A theoretical line-shape fitting analysis was conducted for the LOPC profile using n and plasmon-damping rate as adjustable parameter. Assuming m*/m0 = 0.28 for the longitudinal effective mass of electron, the analysis well reproduced carrier density and mobility deduced by Hall measurement.
Polarizable model of water with field-dependent polarization
Authors: Baranyai András , Kiss Péter T.
Published: December 2011

The polarizable charge-on-spring model of water with three Gaussian charges developed by the present authors [A. Baranyai and P. T. Kiss, J. Chem. Phys. 133, 144109 (2010)10.1063/1.3490660] was studied. We introduced an analytic function for the polarizability in terms of the local electric field. Following theoretical suggestions, the polarizability decreases from its experimental gas-phase value, in our approach, toward a high-field threshold. Using this modified polarizability, we reparameterized the model by calculating its dielectric constant and obtained good estimates of density and internal energy for ambient water, hexagonal ice, and water cluster properties. Mimicked by the new model, we studied liquid water under the impact of homogeneous static electric field in the rage of 0–2.5 V/Å. Both the density and the average dipole moment increase with the strength of the electric field. However, the internal energy shows a minimum at ∼0.35 V/Å. At this field strength, the model starts ordering into a crystal structure. At higher fields the liquid forms a crystalline structure which is a special version of cubic ice.
A comparison of Coulombic interaction methods in non-equilibrium studies of heat transfer in water
Authors: Muscatello Jordan , Bresme Fernando
Published: December 2011

We investigate the impact of the treatment of electrostatic interactions on the heat conduction of liquid water. With this purpose, we report a series of non-equilibrium molecular dynamics computer simulations of the Modified Central Force Model of water. We consider both the Ewald summation approach, which includes the full range of the electrostatic interactions, and the Wolf method, which uses a cutoff to truncate the long range contributions. It is shown that the relaxation of the temperature profiles towards the stationary state solution and the equation of state of the liquid are not affected by the treatment of the electrostatic interactions. However, the truncation of the interactions results in lower internal energy fluxes as well as lower thermal conductivities. We also find that the anomalous increase of the thermal conductivity of water with temperature is reproduced by the different methods considered in this work, showing that this physical behavior is independent of the treatment of the long range electrostatic interactions.
Electrical creep induced ferroelectric domain wall motion in BaTiO3 single crystal
Authors: Liu Q. D. , Huber J. E.
Published: December 2011

Observations of 180° domain patterns were made on a bulk BaTiO3 single crystal using atomic force microscopy and piezoresponse force microscopy (PFM). Surface electrodes were then used to apply a weak in-plane electric field, and in-situ measurements of electrical creep induced domain structure evolution were made. The out-of-plane electric field component presented by electrodes was insufficient to cause significant switching alone. However, in the presence of the scanning PFM tip, a gradual change in 180° domain configuration was observed. This suggests that by combining in-plane fields with an out-of plane bias, domain configurations can be manipulated at the surface of bulk crystals using low voltages.
On the supremum and infimum of bounded quantum observables
Authors: Long Long , Zhang Shifang
Published: December 2011

Let \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\begin{document}$S(\mathcal {H})$\end{document}S(H) be the set of all bounded self-adjoint linear operators on a complex Hilbert space \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\begin{document}$\mathcal {H}.$\end{document}H. In 2006, Gudder [Math. Slovaca 56, 573 (2006)] introduced a new order ≼ on \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\begin{document}$S(\mathcal {H}).$\end{document}S(H). Since then, the existence conditions and representations of the supremum and infimum of two elements in \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\begin{document}$S(\mathcal {H})$\end{document}S(H) with respect to the order ≼ have been intensively studied. Specifically, Li and Sun [J. Math. Phys. 50, 122107 (2009)]10.1063/1.3272542 obtained simpler representations of A ∧ P and A ∨ P, where \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\begin{document}$A\in S(\mathcal {H})$\end{document}A∈S(H) and P is an orthogonal projection on \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\begin{document}$\mathcal {H}.$\end{document}H. In this note, we present more intuitive and concise results on A ∨ P and extend the results of Li and Sun to more general cases. Moreover, some applications of our results are given to show that our results are easier to deal with.
Large magnetic response in (Bi4Nd)Ti3(Fe0.5Co0.5)O15 ceramic at room-temperature
Authors: Yang F. J. , Su P. , Wei C. , Chen X. Q. , Yang C. P. , Cao W. Q.
Published: December 2011

Ceramics of Nd/Co co-substituted Bi5Ti3FeO15, i.e., (Bi4Nd)Ti3(Fe0.5Co0.5)O15 were prepared by the conventional solid-state reaction method. The X-ray diffraction pattern demonstrates that the sample of the layered perovskite phase was successfully obtained, even if little Bi-deficient pyrochlore Bi2Ti2O7 also existed. The ferroelectric and magnetic Curie temperatures were determined to be 1077 K and 497 K, respectively. The multiferroic property of the sample at room temperature was demonstrated by ferroelectric and magnetic measurements. Remarkably, by Nd/Co co-substituting, the sample exhibited large magnetic response with 2Mr = 330 memu/g and 2Hc = 562 Oe at applied magnetic field of 8 kOe at room temperature. The present work suggests the possibility of doped Bi5Ti3FeO15 as a potential multiferroic.
The Nature of the Light Variation of the Unique Binary DK CVn
Authors: Dal H. A. , Sipahi E. , Özdarcan O.
Published: December 2011

We present BVR observations of DK CVn from 2007 and 2008. We analysed the BVR light curves of the system and obtained the system's parameters. Using the ‘q-search’ method, we measured the mass ratio of the system (q) as 0.55. Taking the temperature of the primary component as 4040 K, the temperature of the secondary was found to be 3123 K. Several flares were detected, and the distributions of flare equivalent duration versus flare total duration were modelled using the One-Phase Exponential Association Function for these flares. The parameters of the model demonstrated that the flares are the same as those detected from UV Ceti stars. We also demonstrate that the variation at out-of-eclipse must be caused by some cool spot(s) on one of the components. The star is found to show two active longitudes in which the spots are mainly formed. Consequently, this study reveals that DK CVn should be a chromospherically active binary star.
Methods in (applied) folk linguistics
Authors: Preston Dennis R.
Published: December 2011

This paper deals with data gathering and interpretation in folk linguistics, but, as the parenthetical title suggests, it is not limited to any prejudged notion of what approaches or techniques might be most relevant to the wide variety of concerns encompassed by applied linguistics.
Do non-linguists practice linguistics?
Authors: Paveau Marie-Anne
Published: December 2011

This contribution discusses two issues: (a) it provides a definition and an analysis of the term “non-linguist“, which is conceptualized as a non-discrete category on a continuum and as an activity rather than as a permanent status, and (b) it discusses the general value of folk linguistic theories, which should not, despite their potential imperfections, be a priori excluded from but rather integrated into the scientific data of linguistics. The article will also present a provisional typology of folk linguistic positions based on recent empirical research on folk linguistics conducted by the author. Finally, a plea is made for a new description of the object of linguistics, incorporating the different varieties and degrees of linguistic knowledge ranging from scientific to folk conceptions.
Translating Celan’s poetics of silence
Authors: Boase-Beier Jean
Published: December 2011

Holocaust poetry is like all poetry in that it does not just convey events, but also triggers emotions, and has the potential to change cognitive models and challenge unconsidered views. And yet it relates to real events that must not be falsified. Silences are at the heart of Holocaust poetry. Here I examine a poem by Paul Celan and how it, and its silences, can be translated. Using the notion of conceptual blending I explain how the poem works, and how its translation can also work as a Holocaust poem.
Agency in the translation and production ofThe Adventures of Hajji Baba of Ispahaninto Persian
Authors: Haddadian-Moghaddam Esmaeil
Published: December 2011

There is increasing interest in the “sociology of translation”, agents of translation, and the agency of translators in Translation Studies. But more research is needed on actual people involved in the production, distribution, and reception of translation, and factors affecting these inter-relations. In this article, my interest is in agency in the translation and production of James Morier’s picaresque novel,The Adventures of Hajji Baba of Ispahan(1824) into Persian. Drawing on Persia’s politics, society and culture of the 19th century, I contextualize both the English and the Persian texts and show how Mirza Habib Isfahani, the translator, intervened in the text in order to exercise his exilic agency. The translator’s interventions in the text show that for him the ethics of political progress was more important than the ethics of fidelity to foreign text. The article also examines the agency of other translation agents: the English Major in charge of the editing and publication of the Persian translation in Calcutta; and a Persian dissident and copyist whose tragic death transformed his posthumous agency from a crossborder copyist to a misidentified translator for more than 50 years.
Biodiversity hanging by a thread: the importance of fungal litter-trapping systems in tropical rainforests
Authors: Snaddon Jake L. , Turner Edgar C. , Fayle Tom M. , Khen Chey V. , Eggleton Paul , Foster William A.
Published: December 2011

The exceptionally high species richness of arthropods in tropical rainforests hinges on the complexity of the forest itself: that is, on features such as the high plant diversity, the layered nature of the canopy and the abundance and the diversity of epiphytes and litter. We here report on one important, but almost completely neglected, piece of this complex jigsaw—the intricate network of rhizomorph-forming fungi that ramify through the vegetation of the lower canopy and intercept falling leaf litter. We show that this litter-trapping network is abundant and intercepts substantial amounts of litter (257.3 kg ha−1): this exceeds the amount of material recorded in any other rainforest litter-trapping system. Experimental removal of this fungal network resulted in a dramatic reduction in both the abundance (decreased by 70.2 ± 4.1%) and morphospecies richness (decreased by 57.4 ± 5.1%) of arthropods. Since the lower canopy levels can contain the highest densities of arthropods, the proportion of the rainforest fauna dependent on the fungal networks is likely to be substantial. Fungal litter-trapping systems are therefore a crucial component of habitat complexity, providing a vital resource that contributes significantly to rainforest biodiversity.
Complex tiling patterns in liquid crystals
Authors: Tschierske C. , Nürnberger C. , Ebert H. , Glettner B. , Prehm M. , Liu F. , Zeng X.-B. , Ungar G.
Published: December 2011

In this account recent progress in enhancing the complexity of liquid crystal self-assembly is highlighted. The discussed superstructures are formed mainly by polyphilic T-shaped and X-shaped molecules composed of a rod-like core, tethered with glycerol units at both ends and flexible non-polar chain(s) in lateral position, but also related inverted molecular structures are considered. A series of honeycomb phases composed of polygonal cylinders ranging from triangular to hexagonal, followed by giant cylinder honeycombs is observed for ternary T-shaped polyphiles on increasing the size of the lateral chain(s). Increasing the chain size further leads to new modes of lamellar organization followed by three-dimensional and two-dimensional structures incorporating branched and non-branched axial rod-bundles. Grafting incompatible chains to opposite sides of the rod-like core leads to quaternary X-shaped polyphiles. These form liquid crystalline honeycombs where different cells are filled with different material. Projected on an Euclidian plane, all honeycomb phases can be described either by uniformly coloured Archimedean and Laves tiling patterns (T-shaped polyphiles) or as multi-colour tiling patterns (X-shaped polyphiles). It is shown that geometric frustration, combined with the tendency to segregate incompatible chains into different compartments and the need to find a periodic tiling pattern, leads to a significant increase in the complexity of soft self-assembly. Mixing of different chains greatly enhances the number of possible ‘colours’ and in this way, periodic structures comprising up to seven distinct compartments can be generated. Relations to biological self-assembly are discussed shortly.
Maternal antibody persistence: a neglected life-history trait with implications from albatross conservation to comparative immunology
Authors: Garnier R. , Ramos R. , Staszewski V. , Militão T. , Lobato E. , González-Solís J. , Boulinier T.
Published: December 2011

The evolution of different life-history strategies has been suggested as a major force constraining physiological mechanisms such as immunity. In some long-lived oviparous species, a prolonged persistence of maternal antibodies in offspring could thus be expected in order to protect them over their long growth period. Here, using an intergenerational vaccination design, we show that specific maternal antibodies can display an estimated half-life of 25 days post-hatching in the nestlings of a long-lived bird. This temporal persistence is much longer than previously known for birds and it suggests specific properties in the regulation of IgY immunoglobulin catabolism in such a species. We also show that maternal antibodies in the considered procellariiform species are functional as late as 20 days of age. Using a modelling approach, we highlight that the potential impact of such effects on population viability could be important, notably when using vaccination for conservation. These results have broad implications, from comparative immunology to evolutionary eco-epidemiology and conservation biology.
CPG15 regulates synapse stability in the developing and adult brain
Authors: Fujino Tadahiro , Leslie Jennifer H. , Eavri Ronen , Chen Jerry L. , Lin Walter C. , Flanders Genevieve H. , Borok Erzsebet , Horvath Tamas L. , Nedivi Elly
Published: December 2011

Use-dependent selection of optimal connections is a key feature of neural circuit development and, in the mature brain, underlies functional adaptation, such as is required for learning and memory. Activity patterns guide circuit refinement through selective stabilization or elimination of specific neuronal branches and synapses. The molecular signals that mediate activity-dependent synapse and arbor stabilization and maintenance remain elusive. We report that knockout of the activity-regulated gene cpg15 in mice delays developmental maturation of axonal and dendritic arbors visualized by anterograde tracing and diolistic labeling, respectively. Electrophysiology shows that synaptic maturation is also delayed, and electron microscopy confirms that many dendritic spines initially lack functional synaptic contacts. While circuits eventually develop, in vivo imaging reveals that spine maintenance is compromised in the adult, leading to a gradual attrition in spine numbers. Loss of cpg15 also results in poor learning. cpg15 knockout mice require more trails to learn, but once they learn, memories are retained. Our findings suggest that CPG15 acts to stabilize active synapses on dendritic spines, resulting in selective spine and arbor stabilization and synaptic maturation, and that synapse stabilization mediated by CPG15 is critical for efficient learning.
Systems Analysis of a Maize Leaf Developmental Gradient Redefines the Current C4 Model and Provides Candidates for Regulation
Authors: Pick Thea R. , Bräutigam Andrea , Schlüter Urte , Denton Alisandra K. , Colmsee Christian , Scholz Uwe , Fahnenstich Holger , Pieruschka Roland , Rascher Uwe , Sonnewald Uwe , Weber Andreas P.M.
Published: December 2011

We systematically analyzed a developmental gradient of the third maize (Zea mays) leaf from the point of emergence into the light to the tip in 10 continuous leaf slices to study organ development and physiological and biochemical functions. Transcriptome analysis, oxygen sensitivity of photosynthesis, and photosynthetic rate measurements showed that the maize leaf undergoes a sink-to-source transition without an intermediate phase of C3 photosynthesis or operation of a photorespiratory carbon pump. Metabolome and transcriptome analysis, chlorophyll and protein measurements, as well as dry weight determination, showed continuous gradients for all analyzed items. The absence of binary on–off switches and regulons pointed to a morphogradient along the leaf as the determining factor of developmental stage. Analysis of transcription factors for differential expression along the leaf gradient defined a list of putative regulators orchestrating the sink-to-source transition and establishment of C4 photosynthesis. Finally, transcriptome and metabolome analysis, as well as enzyme activity measurements, and absolute quantification of selected metabolites revised the current model of maize C4 photosynthesis. All data sets are included within the publication to serve as a resource for maize leaf systems biology.
Effects of antinutritional factors on plasma lipoprotein levels in Japanese flounder Paralichthys olivaceus
Authors: Deng J. M. , Mai K. S. , Ai Q. H. , Zhang W. B. , Wang X. J. , Xu W. , Liufu Z. G. , Cai Y. H. , Chen W.
Published: December 2011

This study examined the effects of four types of antinutritional factor (phytic acid, stachyose, soy saponins and soy isoflavones) on lipoprotein levels in plasma of Japanese flounder Paralichthys olivaceus. A basal diet was prepared with fish meal as primary protein source, the other diets were supplemented with 0·2, 0·4 or 0·8% phytic acid, 0·4, 0·8 or 1·5% stachyose, 0·1, 0·35 or 0·7% soy saponins and 0·10, 0·35 or 0·70% soy isoflavones, by dry mass, in place of white flour in the basal diet. Total cholesterol (TC) and triglyceride (TG) levels in plasma of P. olivaceus were not affected by phytic acid or stachyose. In general, addition of 0·2–0·8% phytic acid or 0·4–1·5% stachyose decreased plasma high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C) levels, increased plasma low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) levels, thereby increasing the LDL‐C:HDL‐C ratio. By contrast, supplementation with 0·35–0·7% soy saponins generally depressed plasma TC levels and the LDL‐C:HDL‐C ratio. Supplementation with 0·35–0·7% soy isoflavones, however, increased plasma TC and TG levels. These results indicate that soy saponins may be partly responsible for the cholesterol‐lowering effects of soybean meal.
Brief motivational feedback and cognitive behavioral interventions for prevention of disordered gambling: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Larimer Mary E. , Neighbors Clayton , Lostutter Ty W. , Whiteside Ursula , Cronce Jessica M. , Kaysen Debra , Walker Denise D.
Published: December 2011

Aims  The purpose of the current study was to evaluate feasibility and efficacy of two promising approaches to indicated prevention of disordered gambling in a college population.

Design  Randomized clinical trial with assignment to a personalized feedback intervention (PFI), cognitive–behavioral intervention (CBI) or assessment‐only control (AOC). PFI was delivered individually in a single session and included feedback regarding gambling behavior, norms, consequences and risk‐reduction tips, delivered in a motivational interviewing style. CBI was delivered in small groups over four to six sessions and included functional analysis and brief cognitive correction, as well as identification of and alternatives for responding to gambling triggers.

Setting  College campus.

Participants  At‐risk or probable pathological gamblers (n = 147; 65.3% male; group assignment: PFI, n = 52; CBI, n = 44; AOC, n = 51).

Measurements  Self‐reported gambling quantity, frequency, consequences, psychopathology, normative perceptions and beliefs.

Findings  Relative to control, results at 6‐month follow‐up indicated reductions in both interventions for gambling consequences (PFI d = 0.48; CBI d = 0.39) and DSM‐IV criteria (PFI d = 0.60; CBI d = 0.48), reductions in frequency for PFI (d = 0.48). CBI was associated with reduced illusions of control, whereas PFI was associated with reduced perceptions of gambling frequency norms. Reductions in perceived gambling frequency norms mediated effects of PFI on gambling frequency.

Conclusions  A single‐session personalized feedback intervention and a multi‐session cognitive–behavioral intervention may be helpful in reducing disordered gambling in US college students.
Disrupted phylogeographical microsatellite and chloroplast DNA patterns indicate a vicariance rather than long‐distance dispersal origin for the disjunct distribution of the Chilean endemic Dioscorea biloba (Dioscoreaceae) around the Atacama Desert
Authors: Viruel Juan , Catalán Pilar , Segarra‐Moragues José Gabriel
Published: December 2011

Aim  The Chilean endemic Dioscorea biloba (Dioscoreaceae) is a dioecious geophyte that shows a remarkable 600 km north–south disjunction in the peripheral arid area of the Atacama Desert. Its restricted present‐day distribution and probable Neogene origin indicate that its populations have a history linked to that of the Atacama Desert, making this an ideal model species with which to investigate the biogeography of the region.

Location  Chile, Atacama Desert and peripheral arid area.

Methods  Two hundred and seventy‐five individuals from nine populations were genotyped for seven nuclear microsatellite loci, and plastid trnL–F and trnT–L sequences were obtained for a representative subset of these. Analyses included the estimation of genetic diversity and population structure through clustering, Bayesian and analysis of molecular variance analyses, and statistical parsimony networks of chloroplast haplotypes. Isolation by distance was tested against alternative dispersal hypotheses.

Results  Microsatellite markers revealed moderate to high levels of genetic diversity within populations, with those from the southern Limarí Valley showing the highest values and northern populations showing less exclusive alleles. Bayesian analysis of microsatellite data identified three genetic groups that corresponded to geographical ranges. Chloroplast phylogeography revealed no haplotypes shared between northern and southern ranges, and little haplotype sharing between the two neighbouring southern valleys. Dispersal models suggested the presence of extinct hypothetical populations between the southern and northern ranges.

Main conclusions  Our results are consistent with prolonged isolation of the northern and southern groups, mediated by the life‐history traits of the species. Significant isolation was revealed at both large and moderate distances as gene flow was not evident even between neighbouring valleys. Bayesian analyses of microsatellite and chloroplast haplotype diversity identified the southern area of Limarí as the probable area of origin of the species. Our data do not support recent dispersal of D. biloba from the southern range into Antofagasta, but indicate the fragmentation of an earlier wider range, concomitant with the Pliocene–Pleistocene climatic oscillations, with subsequent extinctions of the Atacama Desert populations and the divergence of the peripheral ones as a consequence of genetic drift.
Region‐Specific Changes in Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid Channel Expression in the Vasopressin Magnocellular System in Hepatic Cirrhosis‐Induced Hyponatraemia
Authors: Nedungadi T. P. , Carreño F. R. , Walch J. D. , Bathina C. S. , Cunningham J. T.
Published: December 2011

The present study aimed to measure the expression of transient receptor potential (TRP) channels in the magnocellular neurones of the paraventricular (PVN) and supraoptic nucleus (SON) in an animal model of hepatic cirrhosis associated with inappropriate vasopressin (AVP) release. In these studies, we used chronic bile duct ligation (BDL) in the rat, which is a commonly used model of hepatic cirrhosis, associated with elevated plasma AVP. The present study tested the hypothesis that changes in TRP vanilloid (TRPV) channel expression may be related to inappropriate AVP release in BDL rats. To test our hypothesis, we utilised laser capture microdissection of AVP neurones in the PVN and SON and western blot analysis from brain punches. Laser capture microdissection and quantitative reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction demonstrated elevated TRPV2 mRNA in the PVN and SON of BDL compared to sham‐ligated controls. AVP transcription was also increased as determined using intron specific primers to measure heteronuclear RNA. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated increased AVP and TRPV2 positive cells in both the PVN and SON after BDL. Also, there was an increased co‐expression of TRPV2 and AVP cells after BDL. However, there was no change in the colocalisation counts of TRPV2 and oxytocin in both the magnocellular regions evaluated. In the SON but not the PVN, the transcription levels of TRPV4 were also significantly increased in BDL rats. Western blot analysis of punches containing the PVN and SON revealed that TRPV2 protein content was significantly increased in these brain regions in BDL rats compared to sham rats. Our data suggest that regionally specific changes in TRPV expression in the magnocellular neurosecretory cell AVP neurones could alter their osmosensing ability.
Male parent effects on stigma receptivity and seed set of sorghum A‐lines under chilling field temperatures
Authors: Eugenia Cisneros‐López Ma. , Mendoza‐Onofre Leopoldo E. , González‐Hernández Víctor A.
Published: December 2011

With 3 tables

Sorghum hybrid seed production involves restorer (R) and maintainer (B) lines as pollen donors. In the Mexican Highlands, R‐lines produce more viable pollen than B‐lines. The influence of this characteristic on stigma receptivity and seed set (seeds/flowers) of A‐lines is unknown. Six pairs of A/B lines and four R‐lines were sown. In the A‐lines, length of stigma, style and ovary, stigma receptivity and seed set were registered. In the B‐ and R‐lines, pollen traits (production, diameter and viability) were measured. Crosses A × R were made, and the A × B isogenic crosses served as controls. There were differences (P ≤ 0.05) among genotypes for all variables. Stigma receptivity traits averaged over the A × R crosses were lower than those of the A × B crosses. Seed production traits of the A‐lines varied depending upon the R‐line crossed to, but the highest seed set was 0.37. Pollen characteristics of the B‐ or R‐lines did not correlate with stigma receptivity and neither with seed production nor with seed set of the A‐lines.
When to use biological agents in inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Corte Crispin , Saxena Payal , Tattersall Stephen , Selinger Christian , Leong Rupert W
Published: December 2011

The use of biological agents in inflammatory bowel diseases across the Asia‐Pacific region is increasing. As new molecules and targets are identified, knowledge regarding the indications, utility, optimization and adverse effects of biological agents grows. Careful patient selection, attention to communication and patient education will maximize the benefit of these drugs. Tertiary referral centers with specific interest in inflammatory bowel diseases and experience play an important role in their use. There is enormous opportunity for patients to benefit from biological agents in the therapy of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Use of these agents has been studied across a variety of indications and populations, and at different stages in the disease course. Failure to respond or loss of response can result from different causes, and can be medically managed in many cases. More research on the pleiotropic effects, safety of biological agents and biomarkers in the prediction of response will provide a sounder basis for individually directing therapy. Adverse events such as opportunistic infection and malignancy can occur, and screening prior to therapy and discussion on risk‐benefit of the various management options are important. Cost of these medications especially with maintenance therapy remains an important issue in many Asia‐Pacific countries. New and more specific agents will better target therapy and minimize adverse events.
CD14 expression and Kupffer cell dysfunction in non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis: Superparamagnetic iron oxide‐magnetic resonance image and pathologic correlation
Authors: Tonan Tatsuyuki , Fujimoto Kiminori , Qayyum Aliya , Morita Yasuyo , Nakashima Osamu , Ono Noriyuki , Kawahara Akihiko , Kage Masayoshi , Hayabuchi Naofumi , Ueno Takato
Published: December 2011

Background and Aim:  Kupffer cell (KC) function and CD14 expression contributes to pathogenesis of non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). However, these relationships remain unclear. We investigated the relationship of KC function with superparamagnetic iron oxide‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (SPIO‐MRI), histopathological severity of NASH, and number of CD14‐positive KCs in NASH.

Methods:  This retrospective study included 32 patients (24 with NASH and eight with simple steatosis) who had previously undergone SPIO‐MRI with T2‐weighted gradient‐recalled echo sequence. All subjects were diagnosed pathologically and were evaluated for necroinflammation grade, fibrosis stage, and number of CD14‐positive KCs. Patients with NASH and simple steatosis were compared by using the Mann–Whitney test to determine differences in percent reduction of liver‐to‐muscle signal intensity ratio (reduction‐%LMR), as a surrogate parameter of KC function, and number of CD14‐positive KCs. Kruskal–Wallis test and Pearson's correlation coefficient were used to analyze relation among reduction‐%LMR, histopathological severity and number of CD14‐positive KCs.

Results:  There were statistically significant differences in reduction‐%LMR and number of CD14‐positive KCs between NASH and simple steatosis patients (Mann–Whitney test, P < 0.001 for all comparisons). Reduction‐%LMR decreased with an increase in necroinflammation grade or fibrosis stage. The number of CD14‐positive KCs increased with an increase in necroinflammation grade and fibrosis stage (Kruskal–Wallis test, both, P < 0.001). A high correlation was seen between number of CD14‐positive KCs and reduction‐%LMR (Pearson r = 0.81; P < 0.001).

Conclusions:  KC phagocytic function evaluated with SPIO‐MRI correlated with histopathological severity and number of CD14‐positive KCs. These results support the concept that KC phagocytic dysfunction contributes to the pathogenesis of NASH.
Transgender Marriage and the Legal Obligation to Disclose Gender History
Authors: Sharpe Alex
Published: December 2011

Section 12 of the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973 as amended by the Gender Recognition Act 2004 requires transgender people to disclose their ‘gender history’ to the other party to a marriage prior to the marriage ceremony. Failure to do so enables the other party to exit the relationship through nullity proceedings. This article argues that this provision is discriminatory and encroaches on the right to privacy, breaching Articles 14 and 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights. It challenges the idea, implicit in the provision, that non‐disclosure of gender history is unethical or fraudulent. Crucially, the article considers and rejects the claim that discrimination against and encroachments on the privacy of transgender people are justified because inadvertent sexual congress with a transgender person is potentially harmful. Finally, if a consent‐based right to know exists, it argues that it ought to be trumped by considerations of justice, legal consistency and public policy.
Treatment of granuloma annulare with the 595‐nm pulsed dye laser, a multicentre retrospective study with long‐term follow‐up
Authors: Passeron T. , Fusade T. , Vabres P. , Bousquet‐Rouaud R. , Collet‐Vilette A.‐M. , Dahan S. , Toubel G.
Published: December 2011

Background  Granuloma annulare (GA) is limited in most cases to isolated lesions, but more widespread generalized forms can be observed. In both cases, the treatment remains highly challenging. Isolated case reports suggested the interest of treating GA with a pulsed dye laser (PDL).

Objective  To evaluate the PDL in treating GA.

Materials and methods  Retrospective multicentre study. Each patient should have at least two lesions of GA including at least one that remained untreated to serve as a control. The evaluation was performed on an Investigator Global Assessment for each lesion as compared with baseline.

Results  Thirteen patients (five with localized GA and eight with generalized GA) with a total of 59 lesions have been treated with a maximum of three PDL sessions. Sixteen lesions (27.1%) achieved >50% of clearing (14% of lesions for generalized GA and 56.2% for localized GA). Transient hyperpigmentation and crusting were observed in 59% and 86% of lesions respectively. The median follow‐up was 6 months (2–12) and 10 lesions (all in generalized GA) recurred after initial clearing.

Conclusion  Generalized GA showed weak improvement after treatment with a high recurrence rate. Only localized forms showed notable improvement in a more than half of treated lesions. Thus, PDL could be proposed as an alternative approach, but only for localized forms of GA.
Pollinator‐prey conflict in carnivorous plants
Authors: Jürgens Andreas , Sciligo Amber , Witt Taina , El‐Sayed Ashraf M. , Suckling D. Max
Published: December 2011

Most carnivorous plants utilize insects in two ways: the flowers attract insects as pollen vectors for sexual reproduction, and the leaves trap insects for nutrients. Feeding on insects has been explained as an adaptation to nutrient‐poor soil, and carnivorous plants have been shown to benefit from insect capture through increased growth, earlier flowering and increased seed production. Most carnivorous plant species seem to benefit from insect pollination, although many species autonomously self‐pollinate and some propagate vegetatively. However, assuming that outcross pollen is advantageous and is a more important determinant of reproductive success than the nutrients gained from prey, there should be a selective pressure on carnivorous plants not to feed on their potential pollen vectors. Therefore, it has been suggested that carnivorous plants are subject to a conflict, often called the pollinator‐prey conflict (PPC). The conflict results from a trade‐off of the benefits from feeding on potentially pollinating insects versus the need to use them as pollen vectors for sexual reproduction. In this review we analyze the conditions under which a PPC may occur, review the evidence for the existence of PPCs in carnivorous plants, and explore the mechanisms that may be in place to prevent or alleviate a PPC. With respect to the latter, we discuss how plant signals such as olfactory and visual cues may play a role in separating the functions of pollinator attraction and prey capture.
Double trouble? The effects of sleep deprivation and chronotype on adolescent affect
Authors: Dagys Natasha , McGlinchey Eleanor L. , Talbot Lisa S. , Kaplan Katherine A. , Dahl Ronald E. , Harvey Allison G.
Published: December 2011

Background:  Two understudied risk factors that have been linked to emotional difficulties in adolescence are chronotype and sleep deprivation. This study extended past research by using an experimental design to investigate the role of sleep deprivation and chronotype on emotion in adolescents. It was hypothesized that sleep deprivation and an evening chronotype would be associated with decreased positive affect (PA), increased negative affect (NA), and lower positivity ratios.

Methods:  Forty‐seven healthy adolescents (aged 10–15 for girls, 11–16 for boys) participated in a sleep deprivation and a rested condition. A subsample of 24 adolescents was selected on the basis of extreme morningness or eveningness scores (based on outer quartiles of scores on the Children’s Morningness‐Eveningness Preferences Scale). PA and NA were measured using the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule for Children, and positivity ratios were calculated by dividing PA by NA.

Results:  Participants reported less positive affect and lower positivity ratios when sleep deprived, relative to when rested. Evening chronotypes reported less positive affect and lower positivity ratios than morning chronotypes in both rested and sleep deprivation conditions.

Conclusions:  These findings extend previous research by suggesting that adolescents are adversely impacted by sleep deprivation, and that an evening chronotype might serve as a useful marker of emotional vulnerability. Early intervention and prevention strategies can focus on improving sleep and on using chronotherapy principles to reduce eveningness.
Hemimegalencephaly in an adult with normal intellectual function and mild epilepsy
Authors: BEAULIEU‐BOIRE ISABELLE , LORTIE ANNE , BISSONNETTE JOHANNE , PREVOST SYLVAIN , BERGERON DENIS , BOCTI CHRISTIAN
Published: December 2011

Hemimegalencephaly is a rare congenital brain malformation, usually associated with mental retardation, * refractory epilepsy, and progressive neurological deficits. We report the case of a 19‐year‐old female with de novo diagnosis of right hemimegalencephaly, normal intellectual function, and history of non‐refractory epilepsy. She presented with weakness and paraesthesia of the left leg. Extensive evaluation was negative for other causes for the weakness, which was attributed to progressive neurological damage secondary to long‐standing subclinical epileptic activity in the hemimegalencephalic hemisphere. This patient underwent a cerebral fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography that demonstrated near‐normal cortical metabolism. Formal neuropsychological evaluation revealed mild deficits in the affected hemisphere, but preserved general intellectual function. This case illustrates the wide phenotypic variations in this condition and raises questions about prenatal counselling for hemimegalencephaly.