bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Superalloys
Authors: Reed Roger C.
Published: December 2009

Superalloys are unique high-temperature materials used in gas turbine engines, which display excellent resistance to mechanical and chemical degradation. This book presents the underlying metallurgical principles which have guided their development and practical aspects of component design and fabrication from an engineering standpoint. The topics of alloy design, process development, component engineering, lifetime estimation and materials behaviour are described, with emphasis on critical components such as turbine blading and discs. The first introductory text on this class of materials, it will provide a strong grounding for those studying physical metallurgy at the advanced level, as well as practising engineers. Included at the end of each chapter are exercises designed to test the reader's understanding of the underlying principles presented. Solutions for instructors and additional resources are available at www.cambridge.org/9780521859042.
The Golem at Large
Authors: Collins Harry , Pinch Trevor
Published: December 2009

In the very successful and widely discussed first volume in the Golem series, The Golem: What You Should Know About Science, Harry Collins and Trevor Pinch likened science to the Golem, a creature from Jewish mythology, a powerful creature which, while not evil, can be dangerous because it is clumsy. In this second volume, the authors now consider the Golem of technology. In a series of case studies they demonstrate that the imperfections in technology are related to the uncertainties in science described in the first volume. The case studies cover the role of the Patriot anti-missile missile in the Gulf War, the Challenger space shuttle explosion, tests of nuclear fuel flasks and of anti-misting kerosene as a fuel for airplanes, economic modeling, the question of the origins of oil, analysis of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster, and the contribution of lay expertise to the analysis of treatments for AIDS.
Figments of Reality
Authors: Stewart Ian , Cohen Jack
Published: December 2009

Is the universe around us a figment of our imagination? Or are our minds figments of reality? In this refreshing new look at the evolution of mind and culture, bestselling authors Ian Stewart and Jack Cohen eloquently argue that our minds necessarily evolved inextricably within the context of culture and language. They go beyond conventional reductionist ideas to look at how the mind is the response of an evolving brain trying to grapple with a complex environment. Along the way they develop new and intriguing insights into the nature of evolution, science and humanity.
Athena Unbound
Authors: Etzkowitz Henry , Kemelgor Carol , Uzzi Brian
Published: December 2009

Why are there so few women scientists? Persisting differences between women's and men's experiences in science make this question as relevant today as it ever was. This book sets out to answer this question, and to propose solutions for the future. Based on extensive research, it emphasizes that science is an intensely social activity. Despite the scientific ethos of universalism and inclusion, scientists and their institutions are not immune to the prejudices of society as a whole. By presenting women's experiences at all key career stages - from childhood to retirement - the authors reveal the hidden barriers, subtle exclusions and unwritten rules of the scientific workplace, and the effects, both professional and personal, that these have on the female scientist. This important book should be read by all scientists - both male and female - and sociologists, as well as women thinking of embarking on a scientific career.
Ecology of the Acanthocephala
Authors: Kennedy C. R.
Published: December 2009

Acanthocephalans, or spiny-headed worms, are endoparasites found in almost all marine, freshwater and terrestrial systems. They infect a huge range of definitive and intermediate hosts during their life cycles, including both vertebrates and arthropods. This volume, first published in 2006, examines the distribution and abundance of the Acanthocephala, and uses this ecological information to reveal the group's enormous survival success. It discusses how the acanthocephalans have evolved differently to all other groups of parasites, and represent a distinct and alternative pathway of parasite evolution and host parasite-interactions. Written for graduate students and researchers in parasitology, ecology and zoology or anyone interested in reading about parasite ecology and evolution.
Forest Dynamics and Disturbance Regimes
Authors: Frelich Lee E.
Published: December 2009

Temperate-zone forests have been shaped by fire, wind and grazing over thousands of years. This book provides a major contribution to the study of their dynamics by considering three important themes:
• The combined influence of wind, fire and herbivory on the successional trajectories and structural characteristics of forests
• The interaction of deciduous and evergreen tree species to form mosaics which, in turn, influence the environment and disturbance regime
• The significance of temporal and spatial scale with regard to the overall impact of disturbances
These themes are explored via case studies from the forests in the Lake States of the USA (Minnesota, Wisconsin and Michigan) where the presence of large primary forest remnants provides a unique opportunity to study the long-term dynamics of near-boreal, pine and hardwood-hemlock forests. The comparability of these forests to forests in other temperate zones allows generalizations to be made that may apply more widely.
Free Ideal Rings and Localization in General Rings
Authors: Cohn P. M.
Published: December 2009

Proving that a polynomial ring in one variable over a field is a principal ideal domain can be done by means of the Euclidean algorithm, but this does not extend to more variables. However, if the variables are not allowed to commute, giving a free associative algebra, then there is a generalization, the weak algorithm, which can be used to prove that all one-sided ideals are free. This book presents the theory of free ideal rings (firs) in detail. Particular emphasis is placed on rings with a weak algorithm, exemplified by free associative algebras. There is also a full account of localization which is treated for general rings but the features arising in firs are given special attention. Each section has a number of exercises, including some open problems, and each chapter ends in a historical note.
Approximation by Algebraic Numbers
Authors: Bugeaud Yann
Published: December 2009

Algebraic numbers can approximate and classify any real number. Here, the author gathers together results about such approximations and classifications. Written for a broad audience, the book is accessible and self-contained, with complete and detailed proofs. Starting from continued fractions and Khintchine's theorem, Bugeaud introduces a variety of techniques, ranging from explicit constructions to metric number theory, including the theory of Hausdorff dimension. So armed, the reader is led to such celebrated advanced results as the proof of Mahler's conjecture on S-numbers, the Jarnik–Besicovitch theorem, and the existence of T-numbers. Brief consideration is given both to the p-adic and the formal power series cases. Thus the book can be used for graduate courses on Diophantine approximation (some 40 exercises are supplied), or as an introduction for non-experts. Specialists will appreciate the collection of over 50 open problems and the rich and comprehensive list of more than 600 references.
Rigid Cohomology
Authors: Le Stum Bernard
Published: December 2009

Dating back to work of Berthelot, rigid cohomology appeared as a common generalization of Monsky-Washnitzer cohomology and crystalline cohomology. It is a p-adic Weil cohomology suitable for computing Zeta and L-functions for algebraic varieties on finite fields. Moreover, it is effective, in the sense that it gives algorithms to compute the number of rational points of such varieties. This is the first book to give a complete treatment of the theory, from full discussion of all the basics to descriptions of the very latest developments. Results and proofs are included that are not available elsewhere, local computations are explained, and many worked examples are given. This accessible tract will be of interest to researchers working in arithmetic geometry, p-adic cohomology theory, and related cryptographic areas.
Statistics for Real-Life Sample Surveys
Authors: Dorofeev Sergey , Grant Peter
Published: December 2009

Samples used in social and commercial surveys, especially of the general population, are usually less random (often by design) than many people using them realise. Unless it is understood, this 'non-randomness' can compromise the conclusions drawn from the data. This book introduces the challenges posed by less-than-perfect samples, giving background knowledge and practical guidance for those who have to deal with them. It explains why samples are, and sometimes should be, non-random in the first place; how to assess the degree of non-randomness; when correction by weighting is appropriate and how to apply it; and how the statistical treatment of these samples must be adapted. Extended data examples show the techniques at work. This is a book for practising researchers. It is a reference for the methods and formulae needed to deal with commonly encountered situations and, above all, a source of realistic and implementable solutions.
Medical Management of Eating Disorders
Authors: Birmingham C. Laird , Beumont Pierre J. V. , Crawford Richard , Hodgson Deborah , Kohn Michael , Marks Peta , Mitchell James , Paxton Sue , Pinzon Jorge , Tyler Ingrid , Thornton Christopher , Touyz Stephen , Wakefield Alison
Published: December 2009

This is a practical guide to the medical complications and treatment of anorexia nervosa and related eating disorders. A user-friendly structure allows the reader to access information on the basis of physical complaint (e.g. chest pain) or body system (e.g. neurological or respiratory). Practical guidance is provided on history taking, physical, and laboratory examination, and looking after special categories of patients such as prepubertal, males, adolescents, and during pregnancy. The principles and practice of treatment are fully covered including medical and nutritional therapies. Psychiatric and psychological issues are also addressed and provide details of specific psychological therapies. The text is supplemented with diagnostic colour photographs of important physical manifestations of eating disorders. Although the text is suitable for all health care professionals looking after these patients, special information is provided for general practitioners, nursing staff and family carers and including the patients themselves.
Cranial Nerves
Authors: Monkhouse Stanley
Published: December 2009

Cranial nerves are involved in head and neck function, and processes such as eating, speech and facial expression. This clinically oriented survey of cranial nerve anatomy and function was written for students of medicine, dentistry and speech therapy, but will also be useful for postgraduate physicians and GPs, and specialists in head and neck healthcare (surgeons, dentists, speech therapists etc.). After an introductory section surveying cranial nerve organisation and tricky basics such as ganglia, nuclei and brain stem pathways, the nerves are considered in functional groups: (1) for chewing and facial sensation; (2) for pharynx and larynx, swallowing and phonation; (3) autonomic components, taste and smell; (4) vision and eye movements; and (5) hearing and balance. In each chapter, the main anatomical features of each nerve are followed by clinical aspects and details of clinical testing. Simple line diagrams accompany the text. Detailed anatomy is not given.
The Treatment of Drinking Problems
Authors: Edwards Griffith , Marshall E. Jane , Cook Christopher C. H.
Published: December 2009

The Treatment of Drinking Problems has become, over the past twenty years, the definitive text in its field. Internationally acclaimed and translated into six languages, it is the most authoritative source book for the treatment of alcohol problems for all professionals who encounter them.
Challenging Behaviour
Authors: Emerson Eric
Published: December 2009

In the developed world alone an increasing number of people have a severe learning disability leading to challenging behaviour. This can encompass aggression, self-injury, destructiveness, hyperactivity, inappropriate sexual or social conduct and bizarre mannerisms, which adversely affects the health and safety of both the sufferer and the carer. In this thoroughly revised and updated new edition, Eric Emerson provides a comprehensive overview of the current findings about the nature, epidemiology, causes and treatment outcomes of challenging behaviour caused by learning disability. The material about motivational factors and the relationship between challenging behaviour and psychiatric disorder has been considerably expanded, and the book combines evidence and research drawn from the fields of psychology, psychiatry and medicine. It will be essential reading for clinicians and all health care professionals involved in the assessment and treatment of challenging behaviour.
Operative Surgery Vivas for the MRCS
Authors: Abbassian Ali , Krishnanandan Sarah , James Christopher
Published: December 2009

This is a comprehensive study manual for the operative surgery section of the MRCS examination. This unique text is set to the level of a basic surgical examination and the material is discussed in easy to access, simple and informative manner. The A-Z format means topics appear at random, mirroring the nature of the examination. For each operative procedure the basic principles, applied anatomy, indications and complications are discussed alongside an overview of technique. Frequently asked examination questions and practical tips for giving the fullest answer for the most marks are also included. Care has been taken to ensure compatibility with all UK syllabuses, and inclusion of material required for equivalent examinations internationally. This manual is an excellent source of information for use during personal study and self-testing, and as a teaching aid.
Corings and Comodules
Authors: Brzezinski Tomasz , Wisbauer Robert
Published: December 2009

Corings and comodules are fundamental algebraic structures, which can be thought of as both dualisations and generalisations of rings and modules. Introduced by Sweedler in 1975, only recently they have been shown to have far reaching applications ranging from the category theory including differential graded categories through classical and Hopf-type module theory to non-commutative geometry and mathematical physics. This is the first extensive treatment of the theory of corings and their comodules. In the first part, the module-theoretic aspects of coalgebras over commutative rings are described. Corings are then defined as coalgebras over non-commutative rings. Topics covered include module-theoretic aspects of corings, such as the relation of comodules to special subcategories of the category of modules (sigma-type categories), connections between corings and extensions of rings, properties of new examples of corings associated to entwining structures, generalisations of bialgebras such as bialgebroids and weak bialgebras, and the appearance of corings in non-commutative geometry.
Clinical features and management of facial nerve paralysis in children: analysis of 24 cases
Authors: Cha H E , Baek M K , Yoon J H , Yoon B K , Kim M J , Lee J H
Published: December 2009

Objectives:

To evaluate the causes, treatment modalities and recovery rate of paediatric facial nerve paralysis.

Materials and methods:

We analysed 24 cases of paediatric facial nerve paralysis diagnosed in the otolaryngology department of Gachon University Gil Medical Center between January 2001 and June 2006.

Results:

The most common cause was idiopathic palsy (16 cases, 66.7 per cent). The most common degree of facial nerve paralysis on first presentation was House–Brackmann grade IV (15 of 24 cases). All cases were treated with steroids. One of the 24 cases was also treated surgically with facial nerve decompression. Twenty-two cases (91.6 per cent) recovered to House–Brackmann grade I or II over the six-month follow-up period.

Conclusion:

Facial nerve paralysis in children can generally be successfully treated with conservative measures. However, in cases associated with trauma, radiological investigation is required for further evaluation and treatment.
Four new species of KudoaMeglitsch, (Myxosporea: Multivalvulida) from Australia with recommendations for species descriptions in the Kudoidae
Authors: BURGER M. A. A. , ADLARD R. D.
Published: December 2009

Kudoid parasites are significant pathogens of marine fish. In the past, specific identification has been difficult due to a paucity of detailed morphological and biological information provided in the original description of some species. However, the introduction of DNA analysis has dramatically improved diagnosis. For morphological characterization, this paper proposes a new set of schematics including additional measurements to give a more thorough description of spore morphology, and provides evidence for uniqueness of 4 new species: Kudoa gunterae n. sp. (from 10 pomacentrid species and 1 apogonid species), K. kenti n. sp. (from 4 pomacentrid species), K. paraquadricornis n. sp. (from 4 carangid species), and K. whippsi n. sp. (from 8 pomacentrid species and 1 apogonid species). Subtle morphological differences found between closely related species were reflected in their genetics, with increased resolution provided by the large subunit, compared with that of the small subunit, of the ribosomal DNA gene region. This article proposes comprehensive requirements for species descriptions within the Kudoidae that incorporate biology, morphology, and genetic sequence.
Development of perception of second language Japanese geminates: Role of duration, sonority, and segmentation strategy
Authors: HARDISON DEBRA M. , SAIGO MIKI MOTOHASHI
Published: December 2009

This study explored the second language perceptual accuracy of Japanese geminates (moraic units) by English-speaking learners at three proficiency levels: beginner (28), low–intermediate (42), and advanced (15). Stimuli included singleton and geminate /t/, /k/, /s/ followed by /a/ or /u/ produced by a native speaker in isolated words and carrier sentences. Results of a forced-choice identification task revealed a significant complex interaction involving all factors. Simple effects tests indicated scores for geminate /s/ followed by /u/ in carrier sentences were significantly lower across proficiency levels. The singleton-geminate contrast for /t, k/ was significant for beginning learners, marginal for low–intermediate, and nonsignificant for advanced. Duration differences did not account for all findings. Greater consonant–vowel sonority difference facilitated perception, enhancing mora boundaries for speech segmentation.
Not Dead Yet: Controlled Non-Heart-Beating Organ Donation, Consent, and the Dead Donor Rule
Authors: GARDINER DALE , SPARROW ROBERT
Published: December 2009

The emergence of controlled, Maastricht Category III, non-heart-beating organ donation (NHBD) programs has the potential to greatly increase the supply of donor solid organs by increasing the number of potential donors. Category III donation involves unconscious and dying intensive care patients whose organs become available for transplant after life-sustaining treatments are withdrawn, usually on grounds of futility. The shortfall in organs from heart-beating organ donation (HBD) following brain death has prompted a surge of interest in NHBD. In a recent editorial, the British Medical Journal described NHBD as representing “a challenge which the medical profession has to take up.”
Yoghurt and dairy snacks presented for sale to an Australian consumer: are they becoming less healthy?
Authors: Walker Karen Z , Woods Julie , Ross Jamie , Hechtman Rachel
Published: December 2009

Objective

To assess the nutrient profile of yoghurts and dairy desserts.

Design

Nutrition information panels and product labels on yoghurts and dairy desserts offered for sale were surveyed in 2005 and 2008 and nutrients analysed by two nutrient profiling systems.

Setting

A large supermarket in metropolitan Melbourne, Australia.

Results

In total, 248 and 140 dairy snacks (yoghurt, fromage frais or dairy desserts) were surveyed in 2005 and 2008, respectively. Over this time, median packet size rose significantly (P≤ 0·001). In yoghurts, median energy and total fat content also increased while protein decreased (allP< 0·05). The proportion of ‘full-fat’ products rose from 36 % to 46 %. Because of the addition of sugar, most ‘reduced-fat’ yoghurts had energy content similar to many ‘full-fat’ yoghurts. Overall, the proportion of yoghurts and dairy desserts that were ‘less healthy’ (i.e. displaying one or more ‘red traffic lights’ for high fat, saturated fat, salt and sugar content) rose from 12 % in 2005 to 23 % in 2008. Only 1–2 % could be deemed ‘healthy’ by the most stringent criterion (displaying four ‘green traffic lights’), while 21 % (2005) or 28 % (2008) were ‘healthy’ by a nutrient profiling system that included a score for protein. Sucrose, the most common sweetener, was found in levels up to 29 g/100 g. Claims on packaging mainly related to Ca, fat or protein content. Few labels referred to sugar content.

Conclusions

The deterioration in nutrient quality of yoghurts needs to be redressed.
Non-dieting group interventions for overweight and obese women: what predicts non-completion and does completion improve outcomes?
Authors: Bradshaw Alison J , Horwath Caroline C , Katzer Lisa , Gray Andrew
Published: December 2009

Objective

To determine factors which predict non-completion of group non-dieting interventions for overweight women, and to investigate whether completion improves outcomes.

Design

First, baseline predictors of non-completion were identified; then changes at 10 weeks and 12 months were compared between completers and non-completers of 10-week non-dieting interventions.

Setting

General community.

Subjects

Participants were 119 women (aged 25–65 years, BMI ≥ 28 kg/m2) with at least one cardiovascular risk factor. Participants who attended at least eight of the ten sessions were classified as completers, and non-completers were those who attended fewer than eight sessions. Measures included BMI, blood pressure, psychological distress, lifestyle behaviours and eating self-efficacy.

Results

Logistic regression analyses indicated that women were less likely to be non-completers at non-dieting group programmes if, at baseline, they were more highly educated or had healthier nutrition behaviours (controlling for education). Only healthier nutrition behaviour was negatively associated with non-completion in the final model. Twelve months after the intervention, completers showed significantly greater improvements in body weight (mean change −0·53 kg), systolic and diastolic blood pressure (−6·3 and −4·1 mmHg, respectively), stress management behaviour score (+0·5) and psychotic symptoms score (−0·1) than non-completers (all P < 0·05).

Conclusions

Highly educated women already engaging in some healthier lifestyle choices were less likely to be non-completers in non-dieting group programmes. Since important treatment outcomes vary according to attendance, future trials of non-dieting interventions should report the effects of completion on outcomes.
6-n-Propylthiouracil sensitivity and obesity status among ethnically diverse children
Authors: Baranowski Janice C , Baranowski Tom , Beltran Alicia , Watson Kathy B , Jago Russell , Callie Margaret , Missaghian Mariam , Tepper Beverly J
Published: December 2009

Objective

To examine the relationship of 6-n-propylthiouracil (PROP) sensitivity to BMI while statistically controlling for demographic characteristics in two age groups of children: 9–10 years and 17–18 years (n 1551).

Design

Cross-sectional design with a multi-ethnic (White, African-American, Hispanic, Other) sample of 813 children aged 9–10 years and 738 children aged 17–18 years. Children were recruited from local elementary and high schools with at least 30 % minority ethnic enrolment. Children’s height, weight and waist circumference were measured along with their PROP taster status. PROP was measured using two paper discs, one impregnated with NaCl (1·0 mol/l) and the other with PROP solution (0·50 mmol/l).

Results

A significant PROP sensitivity by socio-economic status (SES) interaction term (P = 0·010) was detected wherein supertasters had the largest BMI percentile and Z-score, but only among the group with highest SES.

Conclusions

The results suggest that other factors overwhelmed the influence of PROP sensitivity on adiposity in lower-SES groups. The percentage of variance accounted for by the interaction term was about 1 %. Thus, PROP supertasters had the largest BMI percentile and Z-score, but only among the highest-SES group.
As time goes by: Constraint Handling Rules
Authors: SNEYERS JON , VAN WEERT PETER , SCHRIJVERS TOM , DE KONINCK LESLIE
Published: December 2009

Constraint Handling Rules (CHR) is a high-level programming language based on multiheaded multiset rewrite rules. Originally designed for writing user-defined constraint solvers, it is now recognized as an elegant general purpose language. Constraint Handling Rules related research has surged during the decade following the previous survey by Frühwirth (J. Logic Programming, Special Issue on Constraint Logic Programming, 1998, vol. 37, nos. 1–3, pp. 95–138). Covering more than 180 publications, this new survey provides an overview of recent results in a wide range of research areas, from semantics and analysis to systems, extensions, and applications.
Remote sensing of vegetation 3‐D structure for biodiversity and habitat: Review and implications for lidar and radar spaceborne missions
Authors: Bergen K. M. , Goetz S. J. , Dubayah R. O. , Henebry G. M. , Hunsaker C. T. , Imhoff M. L. , Nelson R. F. , Parker G. G. , Radeloff V. C.
Published: December 2009

Biodiversity and habitat face increasing pressures due to human and natural influences that alter vegetation structure. Because of the inherent difficulty of measuring forested vegetation three‐dimensional (3‐D) structure on the ground, this important component of biodiversity and habitat has been, until recently, largely restricted to local measurements, or at larger scales to generalizations. New lidar and radar remote sensing instruments such as those proposed for spaceborne missions will provide the capability to fill this gap. This paper reviews the state of the art for incorporatinginformation on vegetation 3‐D structure into biodiversity and habitat science and management approaches, with emphasis on use of lidar and radar data. First we review relationships between vegetation 3‐D structure, biodiversity and habitat, and metrics commonly used to describe those relationships. Next, we review the technical capabilities of new lidar and radar sensors and their application to biodiversity and habitat studies to date. We then define variables that have been identified as both useful and feasible to retrieve from spaceborne lidar and radar observations and provide their accuracy and precision requirements. We conclude with a brief discussion of implications for spaceborne missions and research programs. The possibility to derive vegetation 3‐D measurements from spaceborne active sensors and to integrate them into science and management comes at a critical juncture for global biodiversity conservation and opens new possibilities for advanced scientific analysis of habitat and biodiversity.
Ocean overturning since the Late Cretaceous: Inferences from a new benthic foraminiferal isotope compilation
Authors: Cramer B. S. , Toggweiler J. R. , Wright J. D. , Katz M. E. , Miller K. G.
Published: December 2009

Benthic foraminiferal oxygen isotopic (δ18O) and carbon isotopic (δ13C) trends, constructed from compilations of data series from multiple ocean sites, provide one of the primary means of reconstructing changes in the ocean interior. These records are also widely used as a general climate indicator for comparison with local and more specific marine and terrestrial climate proxy records. We present new benthic foraminiferal δ18O and δ13C compilations for individual ocean basins that provide a robust estimate of benthic foraminiferal stable isotopic variations to ∼80 Ma and tentatively to ∼110 Ma. First‐order variations in interbasinal isotopic gradients delineate transitions from interior ocean heterogeneity during the Late Cretaceous (>∼65 Ma) to early Paleogene (35–65 Ma) homogeneity and a return to heterogeneity in the late Paleogene–early Neogene (35–0 Ma). We propose that these transitions reflect alterations in a first‐order characteristic of ocean circulation: the ability of winds to make water in the deep ocean circulate. We document the initiation of large interbasinal δ18O gradients in the early Oligocene and link the variations in interbasinal δ18O gradients from the middle Eocene to Oligocene with the increasing influence of wind‐driven mixing due to the gradual tectonic opening of Southern Ocean passages and initiation and strengthening of the Antarctic Circumpolar Current. The role of wind‐driven upwelling, possibly associated with a Tethyan Circumequatorial Current, in controlling Late Cretaceous interior ocean heterogeneity should be the subject of further research.
Producing optimized ensembles of nitrogen-vacancy color centers for quantum information applications
Authors: Aharonovich Igor , Santori Charles , Fairchild Barbara A. , Orwa Julius , Ganesan Kumaravelu , Fu Kai-Mei C. , Beausoleil Raymond G. , Greentree Andrew D. , Prawer Steven
Published: December 2009

Quantum information applications place stringent demands on the development of platforms that can host them. Color centers in diamond have been identified as important media for quantum information processing. Accordingly, the photoluminescence properties of nitrogen-vacancy (N-V) centers in diamond created by implantation and annealing are studied at cryogenic temperatures (below 10 K). We examine high pressure high temperature and chemical vapor deposition synthetic diamonds with varying nitrogen concentration and present an accurate method to estimate the concentration of the (N-V) centers created by ion implantation. The ion irradiation route produced up to 6 ppm of optically active (N-V) centers, while nitrogen implantation yielded up to 3 ppm of optically active (N-V) with 8% conversion efficiency. However, a broadening of the (N-V)− zero phonon line was observed in all samples.
Acoustic emission and dielectric studies of phase transitions within the morphotropic phase boundary of xPb(Zr1/2Ti1/2)O3-(1−x)Pb(Ni1/3Nb2/3)O3 relaxor ferroelectrics
Authors: Dul'kin E. , Mojaev E. , Roth M. , Khamman O. , Tan X.
Published: December 2009

We have carried out a combined acoustic emission (AE) and dielectric permittivity study of the xPb(Zr1/2Ti1/2)O3-(1−x)Pb(Ni1/3Nb2/3)O3 relaxor ferroelectric ceramics with compositions x=0.7–0.9 corresponding to its morphotropic phase boundary. Temperatures of all phase transitions occurring on heating are identified accurately by AE, and a direct transition between the low-temperature (rhombohedral) and high-temperature (pseudocubic) relaxor phases is found. The AE peak intensity is generally proportional to the temperature derivative of the dielectric permittivity, in agreement with a model proposed for a thermally cycled small elastic dipole.
Energy harvesting through flow-induced oscillations of a foil
Authors: Peng Zhangli , Zhu Qiang
Published: December 2009

By using a Navier–Stokes model, we examine a novel flow energy harvesting device consisting of a flapping foil mounted on a damper (representing the power generator) and a rotational spring. Self-induced and self-sustained flapping motions, including a heaving motion h(t) and a pitching motion α(t), are excited by an incoming flow and power extraction is achieved from the heaving response. Depending upon the configuration of the system and the mechanical parameters (e.g., the location of the pitching axis and the stiffness of the rotational spring), four different responses are recorded: (i) the foil remains stable in its initial position (α=0 and h=0); (ii) periodic pitching (around α=0) and heaving motions are excited; (iii) the foil undergoes irregular motions characterized by switching between oscillations around two pitching angles; and (iv) the foil rotates to a position with an angle to the incoming flow and oscillates around it. The existence of response (ii) suggests the feasibility of controllable and stable flow energy extraction by this device. Through numerical simulations with a Navier–Stokes model we have determined combinations of geometric and mechanical parameters to achieve this response. The corresponding energy harvesting capacity and efficiency are predicted.
Bistable electrical switching and electronic memory effect in a solution-processable graphene oxide-donor polymer complex
Authors: Liu Gang , Zhuang Xiaodong , Chen Yu , Zhang Bin , Zhu Jinhui , Zhu Chun-Xiang , Neoh Koon-Gee , Kang En-Tang
Published: December 2009

A solution-processable and electroactive complex of poly(N-vinylcarbazole)-derivatized graphene oxide (GO-PVK) was prepared via amidation of end-functionalized PVK, from reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer polymerization, with tolylene-2,5-diisocyanate-functionalized graphene oxide. The Al/GO-PVK/ITO device exhibits bistable electrical conductivity switching and nonvolatile rewritable memory effects. Both the OFF and ON states of the memory device are stable under a constant voltage stress of −1 V for up to 3 h, or under a pulse voltage stress of −1 V for up to 108 read cycles, with an ON/OFF state current ratio in excess of 103.
PtdIns4P recognition by Vps74/GOLPH3 links PtdIns 4-kinase signaling to retrograde Golgi trafficking
Authors: Wood Christopher S. , Schmitz Karl R. , Bessman Nicholas J. , Setty Thanuja Gangi , Ferguson Kathryn M. , Burd Christopher G.
Published: December 2009

Targeting and retention of resident integral membrane proteins of the Golgi apparatus underly the function of the Golgi in glycoprotein and glycolipid processing and sorting. In yeast, steady-state Golgi localization of multiple mannosyltransferases requires recognition of their cytosolic domains by the peripheral Golgi membrane protein Vps74, an orthologue of human GOLPH3/GPP34/GMx33/MIDAS (mitochondrial DNA absence sensitive factor). We show that targeting of Vps74 and GOLPH3 to the Golgi apparatus requires ongoing synthesis of phosphatidylinositol (PtdIns) 4-phosphate (PtdIns4P) by the Pik1 PtdIns 4-kinase and that modulation of the levels and cellular location of PtdIns4P leads to mislocalization of these proteins. Vps74 and GOLPH3 bind specifically to PtdIns4P, and a sulfate ion in a crystal structure of GOLPH3 indicates a possible phosphoinositide-binding site that is conserved in Vps74. Alterations in this site abolish phosphoinositide binding in vitro and Vps74 function in vivo. These results implicate Pik1 signaling in retention of Golgi-resident proteins via Vps74 and show that GOLPH3 family proteins are effectors of Golgi PtdIns 4-kinases.
IKK phosphorylates Huntingtin and targets it for degradation by the proteasome and lysosome
Authors: Thompson Leslie Michels , Aiken Charity T. , Kaltenbach Linda S. , Agrawal Namita , Illes Katalin , Khoshnan Ali , Martinez-Vincente Marta , Arrasate Montserrat , O'Rourke Jacqueline Gire , Khashwji Hasan , Lukacsovich Tamas , Zhu Ya-Zhen , Lau Alice L. , Massey Ashish , Hayden Michael R. , Zeitlin Scott O. , Finkbeiner Steven , Green Kim N. , LaFerla Frank M. , Bates Gillian , Huang Lan , Patterson Paul H. , Lo Donald C. , Cuervo Ana Maria , Marsh J. Lawrence , Steffan Joan S.
Published: December 2009

Expansion of the polyglutamine repeat within the protein Huntingtin (Htt) causes Huntington's disease, a neurodegenerative disease associated with aging and the accumulation of mutant Htt in diseased neurons. Understanding the mechanisms that influence Htt cellular degradation may target treatments designed to activate mutant Htt clearance pathways. We find that Htt is phosphorylated by the inflammatory kinase IKK, enhancing its normal clearance by the proteasome and lysosome. Phosphorylation of Htt regulates additional post-translational modifications, including Htt ubiquitination, SUMOylation, and acetylation, and increases Htt nuclear localization, cleavage, and clearance mediated by lysosomal-associated membrane protein 2A and Hsc70. We propose that IKK activates mutant Htt clearance until an age-related loss of proteasome/lysosome function promotes accumulation of toxic post-translationally modified mutant Htt. Thus, IKK activation may modulate mutant Htt neurotoxicity depending on the cell's ability to degrade the modified species.
The p38 MAPK family, a pushmi-pullyu of skeletal muscle differentiation
Authors: Lassar Andrew B.
Published: December 2009

In this issue, Gillespie et al. (Gillespie et al. 2009. J. Cell Biol. doi:10.1083/jcb.200907037) demonstrate that the mitogen-activated protein kinase isoform p38-γ plays a crucial role in blocking the premature differentiation of satellite cells, a skeletal muscle stem cell population. p38-γ puts the brakes on skeletal muscle differentiation by promoting the association of the transcription factor MyoD with the histone methyltransferase, KMT1A, which act together in a complex to repress the premature expression of the gene encoding the myogenic transcription factor Myogenin.
Lymphatic endothelial cell sphingosine kinase activity is required for lymphocyte egress and lymphatic patterning
Authors: Pham Trung H.M. , Baluk Peter , Xu Ying , Grigorova Irina , Bankovich Alex J. , Pappu Rajita , Coughlin Shaun R. , McDonald Donald M. , Schwab Susan R. , Cyster Jason G.
Published: December 2009

Lymphocyte egress from lymph nodes (LNs) is dependent on sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), but the cellular source of this S1P is not defined. We generated mice that expressed Cre from the lymphatic vessel endothelial hyaluronan receptor 1 (Lyve-1) locus and that showed efficient recombination of loxP-flanked genes in lymphatic endothelium. We report that mice with Lyve-1 CRE-mediated ablation of sphingosine kinase (Sphk) 1 and lacking Sphk2 have a loss of S1P in lymph while maintaining normal plasma S1P. In Lyve-1 Cre+ Sphk-deficient mice, lymphocyte egress from LNs and Peyer's patches is blocked. Treatment with pertussis toxin to overcome Gαi-mediated retention signals restores lymphocyte egress. Furthermore, in the absence of lymphatic Sphks, the initial lymphatic vessels in nonlymphoid tissues show an irregular morphology and a less organized vascular endothelial cadherin distribution at cell–cell junctions. Our data provide evidence that lymphatic endothelial cells are an in vivo source of S1P required for lymphocyte egress from LNs and Peyer's patches, and suggest a role for S1P in lymphatic vessel maturation.
Being Open When Things Go Wrong
Authors: Whitehouse Sarah
Published: December 2009

By being open, a doctor can engage the patient in a mutually beneficial dialogue and learn from mistakes that have been made. Complaints can be dealt with more swiftly and are less likely to result in a claim, if practitioners communicate well.
Haematuria
Authors: Nash Emma
Published: December 2009

Haematuria is the presence of blood in the urine. It is a common finding in general practice and is often discovered incidentally. The significance of haematuria can vary widely and is influenced by factors such as the duration of its presence, association with symptoms and age of the patient. It can often be alarming for an individual to discover that they have blood in their urine, precipitating fears of sinister pathology, but this is often not the case. A sound knowledge of the aetiological factors, the essential immediate investigations and management and how they may be dealt with in the longer term can alleviate anxiety for the patient and provide a clear path of action for the doctor.
Erectile Dysfunction
Authors: Rabindra Gayathri
Published: December 2009

Erectile dysfunction is a relatively common condition and can cause a lot of distress for patients, as well as have a significant impact on their personal lives and relationships. GPs play a crucial role in assessing and treating the condition and helping with any consequences which have arisen.
Exposure to cannabis in popular music and cannabis use among adolescents
Authors: Primack Brian A. , Douglas Erika L. , Kraemer Kevin L.
Published: December 2009

Background  Cannabis use is referenced frequently in American popular music, yet it remains uncertain whether exposure to these references is associated with actual cannabis use. We aimed to determine if exposure to cannabis in popular music is associated independently with current cannabis use in a cohort of urban adolescents.

Methods  We surveyed all 9th grade students at three large US urban high schools. We estimated participants' exposure to lyrics referent to cannabis with overall music exposure and content analyses of their favorite artists' songs. Outcomes included current (past 30 days) and ever use of cannabis. We used multivariable regression to assess independent associations between exposures and outcomes while controlling for important covariates.

Results  Each of the 959 participants was exposed to an estimated 27 cannabis references per day [correction added on 19 January 2010, after first online publication: 40 has been changed to 27] (standard deviation = 73 [correction added on 19 January 2010, after first online publication: 104 has been changed to 73]). Twelve per cent (n = 108) were current cannabis users and 32% (n = 286) had ever used cannabis. Compared with those in the lowest tertile of total cannabis exposure in music, those in the highest tertile of exposure were almost twice as likely to have used cannabis in the past 30 days (odds ratio = 1.83; 95% confidence interval = 1.04, 3.22), even after adjusting for socio‐demographic variables, personality characteristics and parenting style. As expected, however, there was no significant relationship between our cannabis exposure variable and a sham outcome variable of alcohol use.

Conclusions  This study supports an independent association between exposure to cannabis in popular music and early cannabis use among urban American adolescents.
Oxidized low density lipoprotein‐induced transdifferentiation of bone marrow‐derived smooth muscle‐like cells into foam‐like cells in vitro
Authors: Yu Jun , Li Yan , Li Mincai , Qu Zhiling , Ruan Qiurong
Published: December 2009

Oxidized‐low density lipoprotein (ox‐LDL) is believed to contribute to atherogenesis in part by being taken up into smooth muscle cells (SMC) via specific scavenger receptors; however, it is not clear whether ox‐LDL receptor(s) are expressed in bone marrow‐derived smooth muscle‐like cells (SMLCs) and whether they play a role in the process of SMLC development. Therefore, we examined the ox‐LDL‐induced transdifferentiation of SMLCs that is mediated by lectin‐like ox‐LDL receptor‐1 (LOX‐1). Smooth muscle progenitor cells (SMPCs) from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) were isolated using a tissue‐specific promoter sorting method with a mouse SM22_ promoter (_480 bp)/green fluorescent protein recombinant plasmid. The SMPCs were myocardin+CD105+KDR+CD45−CD34−, but did not express SMC‐specific markers α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA), SM22, smooth muscle myosin heavy chain (SM‐MHC) and smoothelin. After long‐term culture with platelet‐derived growth factor‐BB (PDGF‐BB), SMPCs expressed α‐SMA, SM22 and SM‐MHC and differentiated into SMLCs. When SMLCs were incubated with different concentrations of ox‐LDL, LOX‐1 expression on the surface of SMLCs gradually increased with the increase of the ox‐LDL concentration, but myocardin and SMC‐specific marker genes decreased, accordingly. Furthermore, receptor‐mediated endocytosis was enhanced and lipid droplets accumulated in the cytoplasm of SMLCs. A subpopulation of myocardin+CD105+KDR+CD45−CD34− SMPCs exist in BMSCs that can differentiate into SMLCs under induction with PDGF‐BB. Moreover, LOX‐1 contributes to the ox‐LDL‐induced transdifferentiation of bone marrow‐derived SMLCs into foam‐like cells.
Clinical and genetic analysis of 18 pancreatic carcinoma/melanoma‐prone families
Authors: Bartsch DK , Langer P , Habbe N , Matthäi E , Chaloupka B , Sina M , Hahn SA , Slater EP
Published: December 2009

Bartsch DK, Langer P, Habbe N, Matthäi E, Chaloupka B, Sina M, Hahn SA, Slater EP. Clinical and genetic analysis of 18 pancreatic carcinoma/melanoma‐prone families.

Families with both melanoma and pancreatic cancer are extremely rare and some are affected with the autosomal dominant inherited familial atypical multiple mole melanoma‐pancreatic cancer (FAMMM‐PC) syndrome. The phenotypic and genotypic expressions of such pancreatic cancer–melanoma prone families are not well defined. The National Case Collection of Familial Pancreatic Cancer of the Deutsche Krebshilfe includes 110 pancreatic cancer families, 18 of which (16%) show an association of pancreatic cancer and melanoma. These 18 families were analysed regarding their phenotype and the prevalence of germline mutations in the candidate genes CDKN2A, BRCA2, CHEK2, NOD2, ARL11 and Palladin (PALLD). There were two types of families: five families with the FAMMM‐PC phenotype and 13 PC/melanoma families without the multiple mole phenotypes (PCMS). The prevalences of PC and melanoma in the two types of families were similar. The prevalence of other tumour types, especially breast carcinoma, was higher (11%) in PCMS‐ than in FAMMM‐PC families (2.4%, p = 0.02). CDKN2A mutations were identified in 2 of 18 (11%) PCMS families. A cosegregating BRCA2 mutation was detected in one PCMS family without breast cancer. None of the reported germline mutations in the NOD2, Palladin, ARL11 or CHEK2 genes were detected in either type of family. In conclusion, families with an accumulation of PC and melanoma show a large variety of phenotypic expression, which is not always consistent with the FAMMM‐PC phenotype. More PC/melanoma‐prone families need to be analysed to clarify whether such families represent variations of the FAMMM‐PC syndrome or two distinct hereditary cancer syndromes.
The ‘straight to test’ initiative reduces both diagnostic and treatment waiting times for colorectal cancer: outcomes after 2 years
Authors: Mukherjee S. , Fountain G. , Stalker M. , Williams J. , Porrett T. R. C. , Lunniss P. J. ,   (on behalf of Homerton Hospital Colorectal Cancer Multidisciplinary Team)
Published: December 2009

Aim  This study aimed to determine whether a ‘straight to test’(STT) strategy for 2‐week wait (2wk) referrals for suspected colorectal cancer (CRC) reduced the time to diagnosis and treatment for patients with CRC.

Method  Consecutive 2‐week referrals for suspected CRC over a period of 2 years from February 2007 were analysed. The times to the first diagnostic test and treatment and the cancers identified were analysed for those going to STT or the outpatient clinic.

Results  Of 662 patients having a 2wk referral, 519 (78.4%) were suitable for the hospital colorectal telephone triage service, 121 (18.3%) patients went to STT and 502 (75.8%) were seen in the clinic. Of these 401 (79.8%) underwent diagnostic tests and 25 (6.2%) had CRC and in 12 (2.9%) patients other cancers were detected. In the STT group, 7 (5.8%) patients were diagnosed with CRC. The median time to first diagnostic test was 12 days (IQR 9–13) in the STT pathway, compared with 23 days (17–31) in those seen in the clinic (P < 0.0001). The median time to first treatment was 40 (32–48) days for those via STT, compared to 46 (28–55) days for those seen in the clinic (P = 0.004). A total of 162 CRC were diagnosed during the study period of whom 34 (20.9%) were 2wk referrals (5.1% of all suspected CRC 2 wk referrals), and 14 (2.1%) other cancers were detected via this pathway.

Conclusion  STT speeds up the patient pathway by reducing the time to diagnosis and treatment for patients with CRC.