bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A study of the ground and excited states of Al3 and Al3−. II. Computational analysis of the 488nm anion photoelectron spectrum and a reconsideration of the Al3 bond dissociation energy
Authors: Miller Stephen R. , Schultz Nathan E. , Truhlar Donald G. , Leopold Doreen G.
Published: January 2009

Computational results are reported for the ground and low-lying excited electronic states of Al3− and Al3 and compared with the available spectroscopic data. In agreement with previous assignments, the six photodetachment transitions observed in the vibrationally resolved 488nm photoelectron spectrum of Al3− are assigned as arising from the ground X̃A1′1(A11) and excited B23 states of Al3− and accessing the ground X̃A1′2(A12) and excited A2″2(B12), A24, and B22 states of Al3 (with C2v labels for D3h states in parentheses). Geometries and vibrational frequencies obtained by PBE0 hybrid density functional calculations using the 6-311+G(3d2f) basis set and energies calculated using coupled cluster theory with single and double excitations and a quasiperturbative treatment of connected triple excitations (CCSD(T)) with the aug-cc-pVxZ {x=D, T, Q} basis sets with exponential extrapolation to the complete basis set limit are in good agreement with experiment. Franck–Condon spectra calculated in the harmonic approximation, using either the Sharp–Rosenstock–Chen method which includes Duschinsky rotation or the parallel-mode Hutchisson method, also agree well with the observed spectra. Possible assignments for the higher-energy bands observed in the previously reported UV photoelectron spectra are suggested. Descriptions of the photodetachment transition between the Al3− and Al3 ground states in terms of natural bond order (NBO) analyses and total electron density difference distributions are discussed. A reinterpretation of the vibrational structure in the resonant two-photon ionization spectrum of Al3 is proposed, which supports its original assignment as arising from the X̃A1′2 ground state, giving an Al3 bond dissociation energy, D0(Al2–Al), of 2.403±0.001eV. With this reduction by 0.3eV from the currently recommended value, the present calculated dissociation energies of Al3, Al3−, and Al3+ are consistent with the experimental data.
Ab initio study of Al–Ni bilayers on SiO2: Implications to effective work function modulation in gate stacks
Authors: Magyari-Köpe Blanka , Park Seongjun , Colombo Luigi , Nishi Yoshio , Cho Kyeongjae
Published: January 2009

The valence band offsets and the effective work function of metals and metal bilayers on SiO2 were investigated using density functional theory within the local density approximation. Metal-oxide interface effects and the underlying metal thickness in contact with oxide were examined. As model systems both low and high work function metals had been chosen, i.e., aluminum and nickel, and their bilayers on β-quartz. It is found that the effective work function of a metal on oxide is strongly controlled by the interface atomic arrangement, the calculated valence band offset differences leading up to 0.5 eV for interfaces containing excess oxygen. It is also shown that one or two atomic layers of the underlying metal are sufficient to shift the effective work function of bilayers to that of underlying metal.
Deuteron spectra, spin-lattice relaxation, and stimulated echoes in ice II
Authors: Scheuermann M. , Geil B. , Löw F. , Fujara F.
Published: January 2009

H 2 NMR spectra, spin-lattice relaxation, and stimulated echoes have been measured in polycrystalline ice II in the temperature range of 84–145 K at ambient pressure. From the spectra we obtain the quadrupole coupling constant in ice II, e2qQ/h=(225.7±1.2) kHz, and the asymmetry parameter, η=0.118±0.006. At 145 K, a phase transition of ice II into ice Ic is observed by a change of both, its spectral and relaxation behavior. The spin-lattice relaxation in ice II is bimodal, showing two components of approximately the same weight. The fast relaxing part of the recovery curve progresses monoexponentially and the temperature dependence of its mean relaxation time corresponds to an unusually low activation energy of 2.3 kJ mol−1. The slowly relaxing part, displaying average relaxation times of about 4000 s, is significantly stretched with a Kohlrausch parameter of 0.6 and shows no temperature dependence. The stimulated echo experiments show a temperature independent correlation decay. The analysis of intermediate states indicates that no small-angle motions are involved in the underlying process. Both findings exclude an interpretation in terms of molecular motion. Instead, spin diffusion in the deuteron system has to be considered as the origin of the phenomena observed in the stimulated echo experiments.
Direct photoetching of polymers using radiation of high energy density from a table-top extreme ultraviolet plasma source
Authors: Barkusky Frank , Bayer Armin , Peth Christian , Mann Klaus
Published: January 2009

In order to perform material interaction studies with intense extreme ultraviolet (EUV) radiation, a Schwarzschild mirror objective coated with Mo/Si multilayers was adapted to a compact laser-driven EUV plasma source utilizing a solid Au target. By 10× demagnified imaging of the plasma a maximum pulse energy density of ∼0.73 J/cm2 at a wavelength of 13.5 nm can be achieved in the image plane of the objective at a pulse duration of 8.8 ns. In this paper we present EUV photoetching rates measured for polymethyl methacrylate, polycarbonate, and polytetrafluoroethylene at various fluence levels. A linear dependence between etch depth and applied EUV pulse number could be observed without the necessity for any incubation pulses. By evaluating the slope of these data, etch rates were determined, revealing also a linear behavior for low fluences. A threshold energy density could not be observed. The slope of the linear etch regime as well as deviations from the linear trend at higher energy densities are discussed and compared to data known from deep UV laser ablation. Furthermore, the surface roughness of the structured polymers was measured by atomic force microscopy and compared to the nonirradiated polymer surface, indicating a rather smooth etch process (roughness increase of 20%–30%). The different shapes of the etch craters observed for the three polymers at high energy densities can be explained by the measured fluence dependence of the etch rates, having consequences for the proper use of polymer ablation for beam profiling of focused EUV radiation.
Ion temperature gradient driven instability in high beta plasmas of a sheared slab
Authors: Liu Songfen , Kong Wei , Hu Beilai , Liu Feng , Dong Jiaqi , Gao Zhe
Published: January 2009

A set of simplified integral eigenmode equations with neglecting of the magnetic gradient drift effects are derived and employed to investigate the ion temperature gradient modes in plasmas of sheared slab geometry. Perturbations of both perpendicular and parallel components of magnetic vector potential are considered, as well as the perturbation of the electrostatic potential. The characteristics of the ion temperature gradient instability are studied with the equations and the corresponding computer code, and compared with those with the drift effects included. The results show that the magnetic gradient drift has a block effect on ion temperature gradient mode stabilization, and the perpendicular component of the perturbed magnetic vector potential has strong stabilizing effects on ion temperature gradient modes. Nevertheless, the results from the simplified equations are qualitatively in agreement with those from the complete equations and the differences between them are not significant quantitatively. The simplified equations have the advantages of saving computer time and being well suited to analytic methods.
Effect of obliquely evaporated Au cap layer on the magnetic properties of thin Fe films on Si(111)
Authors: Stephan Régis , Mehdaoui Ahmed , Berling Dominique , Wetzel Patrick
Published: January 2009

The influence of Au capping layers on the magnetic properties of thin Fe films grown on Si(111) has been studied by means of room temperature magneto-optic Kerr effect (MOKE). MOKE measurements show a peculiar behavior of the magnetic anisotropy of Fe films grown at normal incidence and covered with obliquely evaporated Au cap layers. The magnetic anisotropy is dependent on the thickness of the deposited Au layer as well as on the growth conditions. First, the initial Fe sixfold in-plane magnetocrystalline anisotropy is replaced by an in-plane uniaxial one for Au thicknesses below 2 ML. Then, for increasing Au film thickness we observe an in-plane switching of the magnetic direction depending of the Au evaporation direction with respect to the substrate. Consider, for example, oblique Au depositions below 2 ML along the [1¯21¯]Si direction. These peculiar deposition conditions lead to a uniaxial anisotropy with easy axis perpendicular to the incidence plane of the Au flux. For thicker Au thicknesses, the uniaxial easy axis undergoes an in-plane switching reorientation of 90° corresponding to the Au evaporation direction. Angular resolved ultraviolet spectroscopy and ion scattering spectroscopy investigations reveal that this complex anisotropy behavior can be attributed partly to Au/Fe interfacial interdiffusion.
Infrared detectors based on InGaAsN∕GaAs intersubband transitions
Authors: Duboz Jean-Yves , Hugues Maxime , Damilano Benjamin , Nedelcu Alexandru , Bois Philippe , Kheirodin Nasrin , Julien François H.
Published: January 2009

In Ga As N ∕ Ga As multiquantum well structures have been grown by molecular beam epitaxy with 1% nitrogen in the well. Intersubband transitions have been observed in the infrared region by transmission spectroscopy. Infrared detectors have been processed and an intersubband transition has been observed in the photocurrent spectrum. All the observations are consistent with each other and in very good agreement with a theoretical calculation. Band to band transitions observed by photoluminescence also confirm the position of the levels in the well.
Photodiode characteristics and band alignment parameters of epitaxial Al0.5Ga0.5P
Authors: Chen An , Woodall Jerry M.
Published: January 2009

Wide-bandgap semiconductor AlxGa1−xP is a promising material candidate for low-noise photodiodes in blue/UV spectrum. Photodiodes were fabricated on Al0.5Ga0.5P epitaxial layer grown lattice matched on GaP substrate by molecular beam epitaxy. Although quantum efficiency is low for standard p-i-n photodiode due to inadvertent photon absorption in the top p-layer, it can be significantly improved by opening a recessed window in the top p-layer or by using a Schottky junction photodiode structure. Al0.5Ga0.5P band alignment parameters can be extrapolated from the current-voltage characteristics of Al0.5Ga0.5P Schottky junctions. The bandgap of Al0.5Ga0.5P was measured to be 2.38 eV.
Uterine artery ligation for the treatment of fibroids
Authors: AKINOLA OLUWAROTIMI IRETI , FABAMWO ADETOKUNBO OLUSEGUN , AKINOLA RASHIDA ADEYANJU , OTTUN TAWAQUALIT ABIMBOLA , AKINNIYI AMBROSE , AKPAN AKPAN ESSIEN
Published: January 2009

Objective. To determine the efficacy of bilateral uterine artery ligation in the treatment of symptomatic uterine fibroids. Design. A descriptive study. Setting. Tertiary care gynecological clinic, Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria. Sample. Fifty women who had trans‐vaginal bilateral uterine artery ligation for the treatment of uterine fibroids between January 2003 and January 2006. Methods. Pre‐operative baseline ultrasonic measurements of uterine and dominant fibroid volumes were carried out and repeated at two, six, and 12 weeks, then three monthly for a period of three years. Severity of menstrual blood loss, changes in pain symptoms and patients’ satisfaction were also assessed. Main outcome measures. Changes in uterine and fibroid volumes, hemoglobin values, menstrual pain ratings, and patients’ satisfaction ratings. Results. The mean fibroid volume, mean uterine volume, and mean menstrual pain rating showed statistically significant reductions at six, 12, and 36 months. The mean hemoglobin level and patients’ satisfaction rating showed a statistically significant increase after six, 12, and 36 months. Conclusion. Trans‐vaginal bilateral uterine artery ligation is a safe and effective method for the treatment of symptomatic uterine fibroids especially in areas where access to high level medical technology is restricted.
Is training essential for interpreting cardiac computed tomography?
Authors: Ripsweden J. , Mir-Akbari H. , Brolin E. Bacsovics , Brismar T. , Nilsson T. , Rasmussen E. , Rück A. , Svensson A. , Werner C. , Winter R. , Cederlund K.
Published: January 2009

Background: Cardiac computed tomography (CT) has gained increasing acceptance for diagnosing obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD). Several guidelines have been published on required education for proficiency in the interpretation of these examinations.

Purpose: To describe the learning-curve effect of the interpretation of 100 consecutive cardiac CT examinations aimed at diagnosing CAD. The diagnostic accuracy of radiologists and radiographers was also compared.

Material and Methods: Two radiologists and two radiographers, all with no prior experience in evaluation of cardiac CT, independently underwent a dedicated training program of 100 examinations randomized into 10 blocks (sessions), with 10 cases in each. They independently evaluated the coronary arteries regarding significant obstructive CAD. After every session, individual feedback on diagnostic accuracy and comparison with the corresponding invasive coronary angiography (currently regarded as the gold standard to detect coronary lesions) was given. The time required for interpretation was recorded.

Results: The mean review time decreased ( P<0.0001) successively during the 10 sessions for all the observers together. The first session had a mean review time of 32 min, and the last session 16 min. No significant improvement in sensitivity, specificity, or negative predictive value (NPV) was observed. For positive predictive value (PPV), there was an improvement for the radiologists ( P<0.05), but not for the radiographers. The radiographers had a higher total specificity compared to the radiologists ( P<0.01).

Conclusion: The review time for novices in cardiac CT was approximately halved during the first 100 cases, with maintained accuracy. There was a learning-curve effect in PPV for the radiologists. The diagnostic accuracy of dedicated radiographers indicates that they might be considered to be included as part of the evaluation team.
Design and Development of a Robotic Bee for the Analysis of Honeybee Dance Communication
Authors: Landgraf T. , Moballegh H. , Rojas R.
Published: January 2009

We have designed a robotic honeybee to mimic the bee dance communication system. To achieve this goal, a tracking system has been developed to extract real bee dance trajectories recorded with high‐speed video cameras. The results have been analysed to find the essential properties required for the prototype robot. Putative signals in the dance communication have been identified from the literature. Several prototypes were built with successive addition of more features or improvement of existing components. Prototypes were tested in a populated beehive results were documented using high‐speed camera recordings. A substantial innovation is a visual feedback system that helps the robot to minimise collisions with other bees.
NORMALIZING ACTIVE EMPLOYMENT POLICIES IN THE EUROPEAN UNION
Authors: Triantafillou Peter
Published: January 2009

The paper examines some of the ways in which the problematic of activation is put into play in the European Employment Strategy (EES) and Danish employment policies. The limitations of causal analysis and convergence approaches are discussed and a different analytical framework based on the concept of normalization is proposed. It is argued that while various forms of activation were present in Denmark well before the launching of the EES in 1997/1998, the latter has contributed to the normalization of the Danish employment policies by sustaining activation as the key element of such policies and by disregarding political interventions based on alternative problematizations of labour and well-being.
Study of plasma formation within the electrostatic residual ion dump proposed for the HNB injectors of ITER
Authors: L. Rossi  , F. Castejon  , C. Moreno  , M. Liniers
Published: January 2009

Due to an oversight, M. Liniers should appear in the list of authors rather than in the Acknowledgments section.
Viremia and antibody response in green monkeys (Chlorocebus aethiops sabaeus) infected with dengue virus type 2: A potential model for vaccine testing
Authors: Martín Jorge , Hermida Lisset , Castro Jorge , Lazo Laura , Martínez Rafael , Gil Lázaro , Romero Yaremis , Puente Pedro , Zaragoza Santiago , Cosme Karelia , Guzmán María G. , Cardosa Jane , Guillén Gerardo
Published: January 2009

The increasingly limited availability and high cost of the hitherto most commonly used monkey species in dengue vaccine research has augmented the importance of identifying alternative suitable models for these studies. In this study we examined the capacity of green monkeys (Chlorocebus aethiops sabaeus) to develop dengue viremia, and thus provide a potential model for dengue vaccine testing. Monkeys were inoculated with two different doses of dengue virus type 2. All animals in both groups became viremic after inoculation of the virus. In the lower dose group, mean viremia duration of 5.66 days was detected, whereas in the group that received the 106 PFU dose, viremia had a mean duration of only 1.66 days. Antibody titers were similar to those obtained in previous experiments with rhesus and cynomolgus macaques. We conclude that green monkeys develop viremia and antibody responses and therefore provide a potential model for the preclinical evaluation of novel candidates for dengue vaccines.
Correlation of angiogenesis with 18F‐FMT and 18F‐FDG uptake in non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Kaira Kyoichi , Oriuchi Noboru , Shimizu Kimihiro , Ishikita Tomohiro , Higuchi Tetsuya , Imai Hisao , Yanagitani Noriko , Sunaga Noriaki , Hisada Takeshi , Ishizuka Tamotsu , Kanai Yoshikatsu , Endou Hitoshi , Nakajima Takashi , Endo Keigo , Mori Masatomo
Published: January 2009

L‐[3‐18F]‐α‐methyltyrosine (18F‐FMT) is an amino‐acid tracer for positron‐emission tomography (PET). We have conducted a clinicopathologic study to elucidate the correlation of angiogenesis with 18F‐FMT and 2‐[18F]‐fluoro‐2‐deoxy‐D‐glucose (18F‐FDG) uptake in patients with non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Thirty‐seven NSCLC patients were enrolled in this study, and two PET studies with 18F‐FMT and 18F‐FDG were performed. Uptake of PET tracers was evaluated with standardized uptake value. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), CD31, CD34, L‐type amino acid transporter 1 (LAT1) and Ki‐67 labeling index of the resected tumors were analyzed by immunohistochemical staining, and correlated with the clinicopathologic variables and the uptake of PET tracers. The median VEGF rate was 45% (range, 10–78%). High expression was seen in 30 patients (81%, 30/37). VEGF expression was statistically associated with progressively growing microvessel count. VEGF showed a correlation with LAT1 expression (P = 0.04) and Ki‐67 labeling index (P = 0.01). However, it showed no correlation with age, gender, disease stage, tumor size, and histology. Microvessel density (MVD) showed no correlation with any parameters. 18F‐FMT and 18F‐FDG uptake correlated significantly with VEGF (P < 0.0001, P = 0.026, respectively), whereas the correlation of 18F‐FMT and VEGF was more meaningful. The present study demonstrated that the metabolic activity of primary tumors as evaluated by PET study with 18F‐FMT and 18F‐FDG is related to tumor angiogenesis and the proliferative activity in NSCLC. (Cancer Sci 2009; 100: 753–758)
Salicylic acid confers resistance to a biotrophic rust pathogen,Puccinia substriata, in pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum)
Authors: CRAMPTON BRIDGET G. , HEIN INGO , BERGER DAVE K.
Published: January 2009

Studies were undertaken to assess the induction of defence response pathways in pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum) in response to infection with the leaf rust fungusPuccinia substriata. Pretreatment of pearl millet with salicylic acid (SA) conferred resistance to a virulent isolate of the rust fungus, whereas methyl jasmonate (MeJA) did not significantly reduce infection levels. These results suggest that the SA defence pathway is involved in rust resistance. In order to identify pearl millet genes that are specifically regulated in response to SA and not MeJA, and thus could play a role in resistance toP. substriata, gene expression profiling was performed. Substantial overlap in gene expression responses between the treatments was observed, with MeJA and SA treatments exhibiting 17% co‐regulated transcripts. However, 34% of transcripts were differentially expressed in response to SA treatment, but not in response to MeJA treatment. SA‐responsive transcripts represented genes involved in SA metabolism, defence response, signal transduction, protection from oxidative stress and photosynthesis. The expression profiles of pearl millet plants after treatment with SA or MeJA were more similar to one another than to the response during a compatible infection withP. substriata. However, some SA‐responsive genes were repressed duringP. substriatainfection, indicating possible manipulation of host responses by the pathogen.
Weighing and measuring primary school children: evaluation of the TRENDS model for implementation of Department of Health guidelines
Authors: Levine R. S. , Connor A. M. , Feltbower R. G. , Robinson M. , Rudolf M. C. J.
Published: January 2009

Background  The UK Department of Health for England and Wales has issued guidance to all local Primary Care Trusts (PCTs), who have responsibility for school nursing services, for the annual weighing and measuring of all children on entry to primary school and in Year 6 (age 5 and 11 years respectively), known as the National Child Measurement Programme. The guidance places the responsibility for implementation and funding of this scheme onto the PCTs.

Method  This paper describes the conduct and evaluation of the 2006 monitoring exercise in a 10% sample of Leeds primary schools.

Results  The evaluation showed that the exercise can be carried out with little disruption in schools and minimal distress for children.

Conclusions  Recommendations include: adequate staff training in measuring children, along with anticipation of the issues and problems they may encounter and best practice for dealing with them. A good working relationship must be established between the team and school before the measuring day. Schools need to ensure the availability of suitable accommodation and a screen to maintain privacy. Lightweight but robust and accurate scales conforming to the European Union standard should be used and routinely checked for accuracy. Where possible, children should not be lined up, but seen individually. This is considered essential for the older Year 6 children.
Influence of leaf herbivory, root herbivory, and pollination on plant performance in Cucurbita moschata
Authors: HLADUN KRISTEN R. , ADLER LYNN S.
Published: January 2009

Abstract 1. Plants experience herbivory on many different tissues that can affect reproduction directly by damaging tissues and decreasing resource availability, or indirectly via interactions with other species such as pollinators.

2. This study investigated the combined effects of leaf herbivory, root herbivory, and pollination on subsequent damage, pollinator preference, and plant performance in a field experiment using butternut squash (Cucurbita moschata). Leaf and root herbivory were manipulated using adult and larval striped cucumber beetles (Acalymma vittatum F.), a cucurbit specialist.

3. Leaf herbivory reduced subsequent pistillate floral damage and powdery mildew (Sphaerotheca fuliginea) infection. In spite of these induced defences, the overall effect of leaf herbivory on plant reproduction was negative. Leaf herbivory reduced staminate flower production, fruit number, and seed weight. In contrast, root herbivory had a minimal impact on plant reproduction.

4. Neither leaf nor root herbivory altered pollinator visitation or floral traits, suggesting that reductions in plant performance from herbivory were as a result of direct rather than indirect effects. In addition, no measured aspect of reproduction was pollen limited.

5. Our study reveals that although leaf herbivory by the striped cucumber beetle can protect against subsequent damage, this protection was not enough to prevent the negative impacts on plant performance.
Fish community characteristics of the lower Gambia River floodplains: a study in the last major undisturbed West African river
Authors: LOUCA VASILIS , LINDSAY STEVE W. , MAJAMBERE SILAS , LUCAS MARTYN C.
Published: January 2009

1. The Gambia River is the last major West African river that has not been impounded. However, a hydroelectric dam is being constructed and substantial changes to the hydrology and ecology of the system are expected.

2. Little information is available on the impact of water impoundments in semi‐arid regions on downstream floodplain fish communities, due to the scarcity of pre‐intervention data. Because profound impacts on physical habitat, salinity and nutrient transport can occur downstream of such impoundments, a knowledge of the species‐habitat associations of biota such as fishes is necessary for understanding likely changes and how to limit them.

3. Fish were sampled using cast and hand nets along two transects on the floodplain, and with fyke nets in two ‘bolongs’ (creeks) from May to November 2005 and 2006 in the lower reaches of the Gambia River, close to the salt water front where ecological changes due to the construction of the dam are likely to be pronounced.

4. Greatest fish species richness was associated with low conductivity, low pH and deep water. Bolongs held greater species richness compared with other floodplain habitats, probably because they acted as conduits for fish moving on and off the floodplain. Species richness and catch biomass increased rapidly following the first rains and then declined.

5. Using a multivariate analysis, three main species groups were identified on the floodplain; one associated with deeper water, one with less brackish water and one with shallow, open water. Tilapia guineensis was the commonest species on the floodplains.

6. The floodplains provide nursery habitats as many fish captured were immature, particularly for species where adults are mainly encountered in the main channel. Several small‐sized floodplain specialists were also represented by a high proportion of mature individuals.

7. Impoundment is expected to reduce seasonal flooding of the floodplain in the lower Gambia River, downstream of the impoundment, resulting in reduced occurrence of aquatic habitats, especially bolongs, together with lower dissolved oxygen and increased salinity, leading to alteration of the floodplain fish communities, benefiting salt‐tolerant species, reducing overall species richness and probably reducing floodplain fish production.
Filters and templates: stonefly (Plecoptera) richness in Ouachita Mountains streams, U.S.A.
Authors: SHELDON ANDREW L. , WARREN JR MELVIN L.
Published: January 2009

1. We collected adult stoneflies periodically over a 1‐year period at 38 sites in two headwater catchments in the Ouachita Mountains, Arkansas, U.S.A. The 43 species collected were a subset of the Ozark‐Ouachita fauna and the much larger fauna of the eastern U.S.A. We estimated 78–91% species coverage in the two catchments using jackknife extrapolation of species richness from our survey.

2. Many streams, especially small ones, lacked surface water for months, but others, both small and large, flowed permanently.

3. Using published regional presence–absence and coarse ecological data in a discriminant function analysis (DFA), we identified stream size (negative) and regional frequency of occurrence (positive) as predictors of presence in these headwater catchments. For the combined catchments, the extrapolated richness (51 spp.) was similar to an estimate (48 spp.) based on predicted absences from DFA and the Ouachita provincial total of known stonefly species (57 spp.).

4. Local species richness (1–27 spp. per site) was correlated strongly with stream size (catchment area) but was independent of stream drying. Generic richness was correlated negatively with stream drying and positively, but less strongly, with stream size.

5. Regionally endemic stoneflies dominated in drying streams, and widely distributed species dominated in more permanent streams. The composition of stonefly assemblages was associated with regional factors (species pools, regional abundance, evolution of tolerant endemic species, regional climate) and local factors (drying, stream size).
Defensive compound concentration in boreal lichens in response to simulated nitrogen deposition
Authors: NYBAKKEN LINE , JOHANSSON OTILIA , PALMQVIST KRISTIN
Published: January 2009

Nitrogen (N) deposition is expected to increase in northwestern Europe the next 50–100 years. The effects of higher N availability on lichens will presumably depend on their capacity to acquire carbon (C), that is, of the timing and duration of the wet and active state. If lichens respond like plants, their C and N status may affect their concentration of carbon‐based secondary compounds (CBSCs), and thus their defence against herbivores, detrimental radiation, pathogens and parasites. In the present study we have manipulated N availability and timing and duration of the metabolically active state by spraying lichen transplants in an old spruce forest with rainwater or rainwater with added N corresponding to 50 kg N ha−1 yr−1. The spraying was applied either at night, in the morning or at noon to also investigate the effect of timing and duration of the active state. Concentrations of N, chlorophyll a (Chl a) and CBSCs were measured before and after one summer's spraying of 10 thalli in each of four different lichen species; Alectoria sarmentosa, Lobaria scrobiculata, Platismatia glauca, and Xanthoria aureola. The added N was readily taken up by all the lichen species. A. sarmentosa, P. glauca, and X. aureola increased their Chl a concentration in response to increased N, while L. scrobiculata increased Chl a in response to increased active time. None of the studied species reduced their concentration of secondary compounds during the experimental period, but in P. glauca the concentration of all compounds were significantly lower in N‐treated thalli compared with those that got only rainwater. The results are consistent with a high degree of constitutive defence in three of four species, and we conclude that all the investigated lichens seem to have rather robust chemical defence systems despite considerable manipulation of the environmental conditions.
Interplay between global patterns of environmental temperature and variation in nonshivering thermogenesis of rodent species across large spatial scales
Authors: RODRÍGUEZ‐SERRANO ENRIQUE , BOZINOVIC FRANCISCO
Published: January 2009

The purpose of this study was to test for correlations of mass‐independent nonshivering thermogenesis (NST) in rodent species with climatic factors such as maximum and minimum geographic temperature. We first analyzed whether the responses of rodents show a phylogenetic signal. If so, and if the NST over a broad geographical range is similar, then such responses probably reflect physiological evolutionary adaptation. Our results show that NST did not show phylogenetic signal, appears to be evolutionary labile and is negatively correlated with environmental temperature. We predicted that species evolved in cold climates will exhibit higher mass‐independent NST than species from warmer habitats. Indeed, we observed that the relationships between mass‐independent NST and minimum temperature (rs=−0.411, P=0.009) as well as between NST and maximum temperature (rs=−0.443, P=0.004) were both negatively and significantly correlated, thus supporting our predictions. Thus, thermal physiology may be a significant factor underlying the ecological and evolutionary success of animals. Finally we suggest that due to the pressing need to explain and predict the likely biological impact of climatic change, advances in this field are necessary.
Natural killer cells: integrating diversity with function
Authors: Cheent Kuldeep , Khakoo Salim I.
Published: January 2009

The key role of natural killer cells in many aspects of the immune response is now being recognized. The last decade has seen an exponential increase in our understanding of the workings of these cells. Receptor diversity is crucial in allowing natural killer cells to respond effectively to a variety of different pathogens. This article reviews aspects of natural killer cell diversity that combine to generate populations of functional natural killer cells that exist within both the individual and throughout the population at large.
Systems and people under pressure: the discharge process in an acute hospital
Authors: Connolly Michael , Grimshaw Jane , Dodd Mary , Cawthorne Julie , Hulme Tarnya , Everitt Sarah , Tierney Stephanie , Deaton Christi
Published: January 2009

Aims.  To understand the perspective of hospital‐based health professionals with regard to preparing patients for discharge from an acute hospital in England.

Background.  The hospital experience in England over recent years is characterised by increasing admission rates and decreasing length of stay. Legislation and policy initiatives have also focussed upon the need to reduce delayed discharges. Discharge preparation is known to be a complex intervention with multiple obstacles within and outside of the hospital setting.

Design.  Qualitative.

Methods.  Posters were displayed within a hospital asking health professionals to take part in a focus group. Maximum variation, in terms of job titles, was sought for within the sample. Focus groups were held in December 2006. Six senior members of staff divided into pairs to run them. All groups were taped and transcribed verbatim and analysed using a framework approach.

Results.  Three focus groups were conducted, which involved 11 nurses, 15 allied health professionals, five social workers and one doctor. Analysis identified the following themes and sub themes:

 Conflicting pressures on staff:

 Casualties arising from conflicting pressures:

Conclusions.  Pressures described during focus groups stemmed from five main sources: external targets placed upon the system, internal hospital inflexibility and poor communication, the dominance of the medical model of care, a desire to address the complex needs of individuals and a lack of community services. Staff felt themselves to be victims of these competing pressures and that many of the solutions were beyond their influence. Staff described the dehumanising effect of sometimes having to ignore patient concerns, wishes and choices.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Understanding of the pressures surrounding discharge could inform relevant service improvements.
Compulsory continuing professional development: a questionnaire‐based survey of the UK dietetic profession
Authors: Sturrock J. B. E. , Lennie S. C.
Published: January 2009

Background:  Continuing professional development (CPD) for Health Professions Council (HPC) registrants became mandatory in July 2006. Some health professions have identified external barriers to CPD participation, and other research suggests that mandatory CPD can devalue learning. The present study aimed to investigate current CPD practices of UK dietitians and to identify their attitudes towards the new mandatory requirement.

Methods:  UK Dietitians were asked to participate in an online questionnaire made available via an advert placed on the British Dietetic Association’s website and in an electronic newsletter.

Results:  Of 206 respondents, 98.1% kept a CPD portfolio. Those who had undertaken the ‘ABC’ placement model (23.7%) were more likely to keep their portfolio up to date (P = 0.006). Only 41.3% dietitians were confident that they would currently meet the minimum CPD requirement, whereas 77.2% believed they would comply by the first audit in 2010. Some 50.5% dietitians considered their CPD time commitment insufficient due to obstacles such as workload and time constraints. A total of 96.1% respondents acknowledged the importance of undertaking CPD, with the introduction of a mandatory system appearing to provide the motivation to engage in CPD.

Conclusions:  UK dietitians are currently engaging in CPD. There is, however, concern regarding achievement of the compulsory requirement for the HPC 2010 audit. The findings show barriers exist to engaging in CPD activities and to maintaining a portfolio. These issues could be addressed with the introduction of protected time for CPD.
Milk secretion of nitrofurantoin, as a specific BCRP/ABCG2 substrate, in assaf sheep: modulation by isoflavones1
Authors: PÉREZ M. , REAL R. , MENDOZA G. , MERINO G. , PRIETO J. G. , ALVAREZ A. I.
Published: January 2009

Studies on residues in milk used for human consumption have increased due to health concerns and priority interest in the control of potentially risky drugs. The protein BCRP/ABCG2, present in the mammary epithelia, actively extrudes drugs into milk and can be modulated by isoflavones. Nitrofurantoin is a specific BCRP substrate which is actively excreted into milk by this transporter. In this research, we studied nitrofurantoin transport into milk in four experimental groups: G1‐calves fed forage with isoflavones; G2‐calves fed forage with isoflavones and administered exogenous genistein and daidzein; G3‐calves fed forage without isoflavones; G4‐calves fed forage without isoflavones and administered exogenous genistein and daidzein. Results show increased levels of nitrofurantoin in milk from calves without isoflavones (G3) and decreased nitrofurantoin residues in milk when isoflavones were present, either by forage (G1 and G2) or by exogenous administration (G4). The values of Cmaxin milk were significantly lower in those groups with isoflavones in forage (G1, G2). Plasma levels were low and unmodified among the groups. Inter‐individual variation was high. All these results seem to point to a feasible control of drug secretion into milk through isoflavones in the diet when the drug is a good BCRP/ABCG2 substrate.
Disparities in the prevalence of cognitive delay: how early do they appear?
Authors: Hillemeier Marianne M. , Farkas George , Morgan Paul L. , Martin Molly A. , Maczuga Steven A.
Published: January 2009

Cognitively delayed children are at risk for poor mental and physical health throughout their lives. The economically disadvantaged and some race/ethnic groups are more likely to experience cognitive delay, but the age at which delays first emerge and the underlying mechanisms responsible for disparities are not well understood. The objective of this study was to determine when sociodemographic disparities in cognitive functioning emerge, and identify predictors of low cognitive functioning in early childhood. Data were from 7308 singleton and 1463 multiple births in the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study‐Birth Cohort (ECLS‐B), a nationally representative cohort of children born in the USA in 2001. Multiple logistic regression analyses examined associations between sociodemographic characteristics and low cognitive functioning at 9 and 24 months, and tested whether gestational and birth‐related factors mediate these associations.

Sociodemographic characteristics were statistically significant predictors of low cognitive functioning among singletons at 24 months, including the three lowest quintiles of socio‐economic status [lowest quintile, odds ratio (OR) = 2.7, 95% confidence interval [CI][1.7, 4.1]], non‐white race/ethnicity (African American OR = 1.8 [95% CI 1.3, 2.5], Hispanic OR = 2.3 [95% CI 1.6, 3.2]), and gender (male OR = 2.1, [95% CI 1.7, 2.5]). Gestational and birth characteristics associated with low cognitive function at 9 months included very low and moderately low birthweight (OR = 55.0 [95% CI 28.3, 107.9] and OR = 3.6 [95% CI 2.6, 5.1]), respectively, and very preterm and moderately preterm delivery (OR = 3.6 [95% CI 2.0, 6.7] and OR = 2.4 [95% CI 1.7, 3.5]), respectively, but they had weaker effects by 24 months (ORs for birthweight: 3.7 [95% CI 2.3, 5.9] and 1.8 [95% CI 1.4, 2.3]; ORs for preterm: 1.8 [95% CI 1.1, 2.9] and 0.9 [95% CI 0.7, 1.3]). Results for multiple births were similar. Sociodemographic disparities in poor cognitive functioning emerged by 24 months of age, but were not mediated by gestational or birth characteristics. Further investigation of processes whereby social disadvantage adversely affects development prior to 24 months is needed.
Plasma membrane H+‐ATPase‐dependent citrate exudation from cluster roots of phosphate‐deficient white lupin
Authors: TOMASI NICOLA , KRETZSCHMAR TOBIAS , ESPEN LUCA , WEISSKOPF LAURE , FUGLSANG ANJA THOE , PALMGREN MICHAEL GJEDDE , NEUMANN GÜNTER , VARANINI ZENO , PINTON ROBERTO , MARTINOIA ENRICO , CESCO STEFANO
Published: January 2009

White lupin (Lupinus albus L.) is able to grow on soils with sparingly available phosphate (P) by producing specialized structures called cluster roots. To mobilize sparingly soluble P forms in soils, cluster roots release substantial amounts of carboxylates and concomitantly acidify the rhizosphere. The relationship between acidification and carboxylate exudation is still largely unknown. In the present work, we studied the linkage between organic acids (malate and citrate) and proton exudations in cluster roots of P‐deficient white lupin. After the illumination started, citrate exudation increased transiently and reached a maximum after 5 h. This effect was accompanied by a strong acidification of the external medium and alkalinization of the cytosol, as evidenced by in vivo nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analysis. Fusicoccin, an activator of the plasma membrane (PM) H+‐ATPase, stimulated citrate exudation, whereas vanadate, an inhibitor of the H+‐ATPase, reduced citrate exudation. The burst of citrate exudation was associated with an increase in expression of the LHA1 PM H+‐ATPase gene, an increased amount of H+‐ATPase protein, a shift in pH optimum of the enzyme and post‐translational modification of an H+‐ATPase protein involving binding of activating 14‐3‐3 protein. Taken together, our results indicate a close link in cluster roots of P‐deficient white lupin between the burst of citrate exudation and PM H+‐ATPase‐catalysed proton efflux.
Messinian deposits and erosion in northern Tunisia: inferences on Strait of Sicily during the Messinian Salinity Crisis
Authors: El Euch‐El Koundi Narjess , Ferry Serge , Suc Jean‐Pierre , Clauzon Georges , Melinte‐Dobrinescu Mihaela Carmen , Gorini Christian , Safra Anissa , Zargouni Fouad
Published: January 2009

Outcrops, offshore wells, electric logs and seismic profiles from northern Tunisia provide an opportunity to decipher the Messinian Salinity Crisis in the Strait of Sicily. Messinian deposits (including gypsum beds) near the Tellian Range reveal two successive subaerial erosional surfaces overlain by breccias and marine Zanclean clays, respectively. In the Gulf of Tunis, Messinian thick evaporites (mostly halite) are strongly eroded by a fluvial canyon infilled with Zanclean clays. The first erosional phase is referred to the intra‐Messinian tectonic phase and is analogous to that found in Sicily. The second phase corresponds to the Messinian Erosional Surface that postdates the marginal evaporites, to which the entire Sicilian evaporitic series must refer. The Western and Eastern Mediterranean basins were separated during deposition of the central evaporites.
Immunodetection of Cocaine‐ and Amphetamine‐Regulated Transcript in the Rumen, Reticulum, Omasum and Abomasum of the Sheep
Authors: Arciszewski M. B. , Barabasz S. , Skobowiat C. , Maksymowicz W. , Majewski M.
Published: January 2009

Enteric nerves harbour a wide array of neuropeptides playing a key role in the regulation of gastrointestinal tract functions. In this study, the distribution patterns of cocaine‐ and amphetamine‐regulated transcript‐immunoreactive (CART‐IR) nerve fibres as well as the percentages of CART‐positive enteric neurons were immunohistochemically assessed in the rumen, reticulum, omasum and abomasum of the sheep. Double staining were applied, to elucidate whether neuropeptide Y (NPY), vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP), substance P (SP), somatostatin or serotonin co‐exist in CART‐IR gastric structures. In the rumen, reticulum, omasum and abomasum, a majority of myenteric neurons identified by immunoreactivity to Hu C/D were CART‐positive (47.1 ± 3.6%, 45.1 ± 3.0%, 41.6 ± 2.6% and 40.9 ± 2.9% respectively). The smooth musculature of the forestomachs as well as abomasum was innervated with numerous CART‐IR nerve fibres. Blood vessels‐associated CART‐positive nerve terminals were identified in the submucosa of the reticulum only. Lamina muscularis mucosae of the omasum and abomasum was moderately innervated with CART‐IR nerve terminals. In the abomasum sparse CART‐IR nerve fibres were seen between mucosal glands. A small population of endocrine cells of the abomasum also exhibited the presence of CART. All neuronal elements as well as endocrine cells IR to CART were negative to somatostatin and/or serotonin. No immunoreactivity to VIP, NPY and/or SP was found in myenteric ganglia‐projecting CART‐positive nerve fibres. The co‐localization of CART with VIP, NPY and/or SP was regularly observed in myenteric neurons as well as the smooth muscle layer‐ and lamina muscularis mucosae‐projecting nerve fibres. CART‐IR nerve terminals located between mucosal glands of the abomasum frequently co‐stored VIP, NPY and/or SP. Although the exact function of CART in the ovine forestomachs/stomach has to be elucidated, several potential functions (like enteric nerves protection) have been suggested.
Phosphorylated Human Lectin Galectin‐3: Analysis of Ligand Binding by Histochemical Monitoring of Normal/Malignant Squamous Epithelia and by Isothermal Titration Calorimetry
Authors: Szabo P. , Dam T. K. , Smetana Jr K. , Dvořánková B. , Kübler D. , Brewer C. F. , Gabius H.‐J.
Published: January 2009

The human lectin galectin‐3 is a multifunctional effector with special functions in regulation of adhesion and apoptosis. Its unique trimodular organization includes the 12‐residue N‐terminal sequence, a substrate for protein kinase CK1‐dependent phosphorylation. As a step towards elucidating its significance, we prepared phosphorylated galectin‐3, labelled it and used it as a tool in histochemistry. We monitored normal and malignant squamous epithelia. Binding was suprabasal with obvious positive correlation to the degree of differentiation and negative correlation to proliferation. The staining pattern resembled that obtained with the unmodified lectin. Basal cell carcinomas were invariably negative. The epidermal positivity profile was akin to distribution of the desmosomal protein desmoglein, as also seen with keratinocytesin vitro. In all cases, binding was inhibitable by the presence of lactose, prompting further investigation of the activity of the lectin site by a sensitive biochemical method, i.e. isothermal titration calorimetry. The overall affinity and the individual enthalpic and entropic contributions were determined. No effect of phosphorylation was revealed. This strategic combination of histo‐ and biochemical techniques applied to an endogenous effector after its processing by a protein kinase thus enabled a detailed monitoring of the binding properties of the post‐translationally modified lectin. It underscores the value of using endogenous lectins as a histochemical tool. The documented approach has merit for applications beyond lectinology.