bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
University-Affiliated Lab Schools: A Collaborative Partnership Between the University of Pittsburgh's Falk School and the State University of Malang Lab Schools
Authors: Rachmajanti Sri , McClure Maureen W.
Published: December 2011

This article focuses on contemporary discussions about university-affiliated lab schools and their growing international networks. Topics include university-affiliated lab schools, the State University of Malang-University of Pittsburgh partnership created by a consortium of rectors in Indonesia, and the growing importance of international professional development networks for university-affiliated lab schools. The instructional leadership side of the partnership has shared ways: (a) to design a better aligned curriculum; (b) to make learning activities more active and student-oriented; (c) to trigger creativity, critical thinking, and independence; (d) to practice ongoing assessment; and (e) to enrich the cultural repertoire of students. The institutional management side has focused greater attention on: professionalism in management; use of technology; human resources issues of recruitment, induction, and continuing professional development; and more innovative, balanced, transparent and sustainable funding sources. The following recommendations are made. First, fostering international partnerships is a good way for already strong schools to make continuous improvements in both instruction and institutional leadership. Second, partnership sustainability is paramount, especially during transitions in senior university management. Careful and thoughtful construction of the universities’ core memorandum of understanding is time well spent because it becomes embedded in institutional policy.
Supramolecular Dye Inclusion Single Crystals Created from 2,3,6‐Trimethyl‐β‐cyclodextrin and Porphyrins
Authors: Tsuchiya Youichi , Shiraki Tomohiro , Matsumoto Takashi , Sugikawa Kouta , Sada Kazuki , Yamano Akihito , Shinkai Seiji
Published: December 2011

In Nature, chromophoric groups play various roles, such as oxygen carriers, electron donors, light sensitizers, which are achieved in many cases by control of their aggregation modes in proteins. Host–guest chemistry between cyclodextrins and porphyrins has attracted great interest from supramolecular chemists because of their unique structures and functions that mimic those of proteins with chromophoric prosthetic groups. To mimic Nature’s contrivances, the host–guest systems between cyclodextrins and porphyrins have frequently been studied. It is really surprising, however, that to date no detailed structural information of these complexes has been obtained from single‐crystal analysis. In 2011, we reported the first successful isolation of a dye inclusion single crystal (DISC) between 2,3,6‐trimethyl‐β‐cyclodextrin (TMβCD) and 5,10,15,20‐tetrapyridylporphyrin (TPyP), and analyzed its X‐ray crystal structure. The crystal structure revealed not only the real complex mode but also the attractive orientation of TPyP in the DISC. Herein, we present new strategies to prepare DISCs of TMβCD for several porphyrins and provide crystal structures, details of the complex modes, and optical properties. We believe that the present study has various important implications not only for the basic crystal analysis of inclusion complexes but also for potential applications that use these single crystals.
Extended field stereotactic radiosurgery for recurrent glioblastoma
Authors: Koga Tomoyuki , Maruyama Keisuke , Tanaka Minoru , Ino Yasushi , Saito Nobuhito , Nakagawa Keiichi , Shibahara Junji , Todo Tomoki
Published: December 2011

BACKGROUND:

Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is among the few therapeutic options for glioblastoma that recurs after standard radiation and chemotherapy, but its efficacy has been limited.

METHODS:

Since November 2007, the authors have modified the clinical target volume by adding a 0.5‐ to 1‐cm margin to the gadolinium‐enhanced area (extended field SRS), in contrast to conventional SRS using no margin to set the clinical target volume. A total of 35 recurred glioblastoma lesions in 9 patients were treated with conventional SRS between December 1990 and January 2007, and 14 lesions in 9 patients were treated with extended field SRS.

RESULTS:

The median follow‐up periods were 7 months (range, 3‐29 months) and 8 months (range, 6‐27 months), respectively. The local control rate was 47% for conventional SRS and 93% for extended field SRS (P = .0035), and the numbers of radiation necrosis observed in SRS‐treated lesions were 2 and 4, respectively. The median overall survival from the diagnosis was 24 months (range, 14‐57 months) for conventional SRS and 21 months (range, 15‐51 months) for extended field SRS (statistically not significant). Seven patients treated with conventional SRS died during follow‐up, 6 from progression of the SRS‐treated tumor, whereas 7 patients treated with extended field SRS died during follow‐up, 6 from remote intracerebral dissemination.

CONCLUSIONS:

Extended field SRS was superior to conventional SRS in the local control of small recurrent lesions of glioblastoma, although a further device to suppress remote dissemination may be necessary to increase survival. Cancer 2012. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Highly Water‐Dispersible Fe3O4 Single Nanocrystals: Gram‐Scale Preparation by a Solution‐Phase Route and Application for the Absorption of Cd2+ in Water
Authors: Guan Xiao‐Hui , Zheng Bo‐Tian , Lu Min , Guan Xin , Wang Guang‐Sheng , Guo Lin
Published: December 2011

Fe3O4 nanocrystals with narrow particle size distribution (10–15 nm) were produced in high yield by using a simple solution‐phase method at room temperature. In this approach, the iron oxide nanocrystals can be continually prepared through controlling the pH value of the solution. The as‐synthesized Fe3O4 nanoparticles are single‐crystalline and exhibit high saturation magnetization. New adsorbents of Fe3O4 nanocrystals immobilized on bacterial cellulose (FNBC) were prepared by a simple blending method in the hope of removing heavy metal ions from aqueous solutions. The FNBC showed significantly higher affinity for removing Cd2+ compared to BC. In addition, the effect of characteristic parameters such as pH value, adsorption time by simulating the adsorptive kinetics, and adsorptive isotherms were also investigated.
Towards Allopumiliotoxins: A Concise Synthesis of the Indolizidine Core
Authors: Vijaykumar Bodduri V. D. , Mallesham Pitchakuntla , Chandrasekhar Srivari
Published: December 2011

The common bicyclic indolizidine core present in several allopumiliotoxins was synthesized by the sequential use of a Crimmins' aldol reaction, an SOCl2‐mediated SNi displacement, and an intramolecular nucleophilic acyl substitution (INAS) as the key transformations.
Time to seriously consider optional third‐party clearing of FTRs?
Authors: Sacra Ann
Published: December 2011

Since the launch of the first auction for Financial Transmission Rights (FTRs)1 in 1999, the Independent System Operator (ISO)‐conducted FTR markets have seen tremendous growth. Six ISOs—CAISO, ERCOT, ISO‐NE, MISO, NYISO, and PJM—now offer FTRs as a way to hedge exposure to the congestion charges that emerge when out‐of‐merit generators are dispatched during periods of transmission grid congestion. Over time, many ISOs have increased the variety of terms available for FTRs, allowing participants to purchase FTRs years in advance. Financial participants have increasingly joined the FTR markets as well, providing useful liquidity.
Technology: Planning for capital investment in regulated energy markets
Authors: Skinner R. Kenneth
Published: December 2011

Building the business case for capital investment decisions is often thought of and analyzed from the perspective of revenue potential and retained earnings. Net present value techniques are employed to evaluate investment choices and arrive at go or no‐go decisions. The focus on revenue potential is especially effective for deregulated industries, but less so for regulated companies.
Complex configuration interaction calculations of the cross section for the dissociative electron attachment process e− + F2 → F → F + F− using the complex basis function method
Authors: Honigmann Michael , Buenker Robert J. , Liebermann Heinz‐Peter
Published: December 2011

The F molecule and the corresponding dynamic processes dealing with electron scattering on the neutral F2 species have been the subject of many theoretical and experimental investigations in the past. In the context of the Born‐Oppenheimer approximation, one of the best theoretical descriptions of the electronic states involves the use of complex basis functions together with configuration interaction (CI) methods. In this work, multireference CI calculations using the complex basis function method have been carried out for the autoionizing ground state of the F molecule. Potential curves and vibrational levels have been obtained for the ground and various excited states of both F2 and F, as well as the variation of the line width of the anionic ground state for the bond distance region in which it is metastable. Cross sections for the dissociative electron attachment process e− + F2 → F → F + F− have also been computed within the framework of the boomerang model, and good agreement with available experimental data has been found. In addition, some calculations for the process of vibrational excitation are included which also give good agreement with experiment. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2012
HYDROLOGIC MODIFICATION FROM HYDROELECTRIC POWER OPERATIONS IN A MOUNTAIN BASIN
Authors: Caruso B. S.
Published: December 2011

The natural flow paradigm suggests that components of the natural streamflow regime and variability should be managed to maintain important ecosystem functions and services. Mountain rivers can exhibit extreme flow variability and provide critical aquatic habitat and ecosystem services but can be severely impacted by hydroelectric power (HEP) development and operations that will likely increase in the future. The hydrologic modification from HEP operations in the Upper San Joaquin River Basin, California, was evaluated across 15 river and stream locations throughout the basin. Flow modifications in Bear Creek, an otherwise unimpacted high‐elevation subbasin, were evaluated in detail using a number of hydrologic metrics, including Indicators of Hydrologic Alteration (IHA), environmental flow components of IHA, flow duration curves, ecodeficit and comparisons using equivalence testing. The uncertainty of the metrics based on confidence intervals was also evaluated for unimpaired (upstream) and existing (impaired or downstream) conditions. Results showed that metrics for median values changed considerably for most locations under impaired conditions, but the direction and extent of change varied depending on the location and flow metric. Metrics for variability (coefficients of dispersion) changed even more. Most metrics showed that flow modifications in Bear Creek were substantial, including decreases in high flows and increases in most low‐flow metrics. However, some flow variability metrics increased because of large flood flows during several years overwhelming and bypassing the dam/diversion structure. Uncertainty in metrics varied considerably throughout the basin but generally increased for impaired conditions. Uncertainty should be explicitly considered when evaluating hydrologic modification from HEP in mountain watersheds. A number of metrics should be used depending on objectives and spatial scale, including a subset of key IHA metrics across multiple sites and other methods to provide detailed information on flow modification in conjunction with other environmental flow assessment techniques at key locations. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Regional inequality and poverty in pre‐ and postreform China: Can entrepreneurship make a difference?
Authors: Koveos Peter , Zhang Yimin
Published: December 2011

China's reforms have been associated with significant increases in the country's income and output. Yet, income inequality and poverty are still posing significant challenges to the country's economic landscape. One possible way of meeting these challenges is through the promotion of an entrepreneurial culture. The analysis is conducted using selected periods of regional economic development as its background. As a reasonable approximation, these periods are: the pre‐1978 period, the 1980s, the 1990s, and the 2000s. Income inequalities and poverty trends are then examined for China's regions. In addition, the extent of the regional gap is measured and regional poverty levels and inequalities across counties are examined. The role of entrepreneurship in alleviating poverty in China is explored. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Research initiatives of the European Union in the areas of sustainability, entrepreneurship, and poverty alleviation
Authors: Harkiolakis Nicholas , Prinia Despina , Mourad Lara
Published: December 2011

In an effort to combat poverty and sustain growth, the European Union launched initiatives and invested funds to research the area of sustainable development and social cohesion. This article reviews funded projects of the European Union established over the last decade in the areas of entrepreneurship, sustainability, and corporate social responsibility. The analysis reveals that in Europe the issue of poverty is seen more as an issue of inequality and as lack of integration rather than an issue of wealth. This has an effect in the way policymakers and public authorities adopt new measures to achieve social cohesion, thereby ignoring the contribution of the individual as an entrepreneur with social consciousness that could lead the efforts to alleviate poverty. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Low maternal middle cerebral artery Doppler resistance indices can predict future development of pre‐eclampsia
Authors: Belfort M. , Van Veen T. , White G. L. , Kofford S. , Allred J. , Postma I. , Varner M.
Published: December 2011

Objective

To determine if decreased resistance (vasodilatation) in the maternal middle cerebral artery (MCA) in the second trimester can predict third‐trimester development of pre‐eclampsia.

Methods

Four‐hundred and five low‐risk gravidas had MCA transcranial Doppler (TCD) once in the second trimester. Maternal/neonatal outcomes were evaluated after delivery. Mean blood pressure, MCA velocities, resistance index (RI), pulsatility index (PI) and cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) were compared between normotensive and pre‐eclamptic cohorts.

Results

Seven subjects (1.7%) developed pre‐eclampsia. An RI of < 0.54 and a PI of < 0.81 were clinically useful in predicting subsequent pre‐eclampsia. Areas under the receiver–operating characteristics curves for RI and PI were 0.93 and 0.93, respectively, with optimal sensitivity and specificity of 86% and 93% for both variables. Positive and negative likelihood ratios were 11.8/0.15 (RI) and 12.3/0.15 (PI).

Conclusion

TCD indices of low maternal MCA resistance in the second trimester are predictive of the subsequent development of pre‐eclampsia in a low‐risk, ethnically homogeneous population. Copyright © 2012 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Induction of insulin‐dependent diabetes mellitus by total pancreatectomy for pancreatic islet transplantation in cynomolgus monkeys
Authors: Yoshida Tadashi , Suzuki Tomomi , Watanabe Masaaki , Yamashita Kenichiro , Koshizuka Yasuyuki , Kuraya Daisuke , Ogura Masaomi , Kamachi Hirofumi , Matsushita Michiaki , Todo Satoru
Published: December 2011

Background/purpose

In order to perform a preclinical trial of pancreatic islet transplantation (PIT) in nonhuman primates, insulin‐dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) must be induced. Methods for IDDM induction are administration of streptozotocin (STZ) or total pancreatectomy (TP). While STZ‐induced IDDM is not always reliable, TP is appropriate for IDDM induction. However, TP is very difficult because of the complex surgical procedure required, necessary confirmation of IDDM, and difficulty in postoperative management. In this study, we tried to establish a reliable IDDM model for PIT in cynomolgus monkeys.

Methods

TP was performed in 5 male cynomolgus monkeys (Macaca fascicularis). This was followed by scheduled measurements of blood glucose, C‐peptide levels, insulin levels, oral intake, and insulin requirements. IDDM induction was confirmed by serum C‐peptide levels and intravenous glucose tolerance test (IVGTT). Allogeneic PIT was performed 14 days later with immunosuppressive therapy.

Results

TP successfully induced IDDM in all animals, confirmed by reduction of fasting serum C‐peptide levels. Negative responses of serum C‐peptide levels and insulin in IVGTT provided further confirmation of IDDM induction. No mortality or morbidity was encountered in any of the animals.

Conclusions

TP successfully induced IDDM for PIT in cynomolgus monkeys.
“It's Not Like Judgment Day”: Public Understanding of and Reactions to Personalized Genomic Risk Information
Authors: Gordon Erynn S. , Griffin Georgia , Wawak Lisa , Pang Hauchie , Gollust Sarah E. , Bernhardt Barbara A.
Published: December 2011

The value of genomic risk assessment depends upon patients making appropriate behavioral changes in response to increased risk leading to disease prevention and early detection. To date, few studies have investigated consumers’ response to personalized genomic disease risk information. To address this gap, we conducted semi‐structured interviews with 60 adults participating in the Coriell Personalized Medicine Collaborative. The interviews took place after receiving results providing genomic and other risk information for up to eight common complex diseases. We found that participants were most likely to recall results which conferred an increased risk or those of particular personal interest. Participants understood the multi‐factorial nature of common complex disease, and generally did not have negative emotional responses or overly deterministic perceptions of their results. Although most participants expressed a desire to use results to improve their health, a minority had actually taken action (behavior change or shared results with their doctor) at the time of the interview. These results suggest that participants have a reasonable understanding of genomic risk information and that provision of genomic risk information may motivate behavior change in some individuals; however additional work is needed to better understand the lack of change seen in the majority of participants.
Feeling disrespected by parents: Refining the measurement and understanding of psychological control
Authors: Barber Brian K. , Xia Mingzhu , Olsen Joseph A. , McNeely Clea A. , Bose Krishna
Published: December 2011

This study investigated parental psychological control of adolescents when construed as disrespect of individuality. First, 120 adolescents from 5 cultures were interviewed and asked to identify specific parental behaviors that communicated to them that they were disrespected as individuals. The interview data were coded and 8 new survey items were constructed to reflect key content. These items were then administered to 2100 adolescents in the same cultures along with a traditional measure of psychological control (PCS). Confirmatory factor analyses indicated that model fit was better when the two scales were kept separate, across culture and sex of parent. In structural equation models, the new scale – labeled Psychological Control – Disrespect – accounted for all and more of the variance in youth depression and antisocial behavior than the PCS did. The discussion centers on the validation the study makes of the construct and offers several suggestions for future research.
Early programming of adult blood pressure in the low birth weight Yucatan miniature pig is exacerbated by a post-weaning high-salt-fat-sugar diet
Authors: Myrie Semone B. , MacKay Dylan S. , Van Vliet Bruce N. , Bertolo Robert F.
Published: December 2011

We previously demonstrated that intra-uterine growth-restricted (IUGR) Yucatan miniature pigs develop modestly elevated blood pressure (BP) as young adults. The present study evaluated the effects of a post-weaning Western-style, high-salt-fat-sugar (HSFS) diet on early programming of BP. IUGR piglets (3 d old, 0·77 (sem0·04) kg,n6) were paired with normal weight (NW) same-sex littermates (1·14 (sem0·03) kg,n6) and fed milk replacer for 4 weeks. A third littermate was left with the sow (SF; 1·01 (sem0·05) kg,n6). When 4 weeks old, all pigs were placed on a HSFS dietad libitumfor 5 h/d. When 11 months old, telemeters were implanted to measure BP in pigs before (4·5 % NaCl) and after (0·5 % NaCl) a 7 d reduced salt challenge. At necropsy, nephron numbers were determined. Before sexual maturity, IUGR pigs had greater relative feed intake (P < 0·05), and experienced catch-up growth with greater adiposity, with correlations between adiposity and BP (P < 0·05). Adult IUGR pigs had 26–34 % fewer nephrons and higher diastolic BP (107·7 (sem4·9) mmHg,P = 0·044) than NW (97·2 (sem1·8) mmHg) and SF (98·9 (sem5·3) mmHg) pigs. Systolic BP was similar among the three groups, but was significantly elevated compared with levels previously reported for a control diet. Salt restriction reduced BP in all groups (P < 0·05), but with no differences (P>0·05) in the degree of salt sensitivity among groups. In conclusion, a post-weaning Western-style diet exacerbates early programming of diastolic BP in Yucatan miniature swine, whereas systolic BP is more sensitive to postnatal diet.
Biology, taxonomy and conservation status of the Short-tailed Green MagpieCissa [t.] thalassinafrom Java
Authors: VAN BALEN S. (BAS) , EATON JAMES A. , RHEINDT FRANK E.
Published: December 2011

The Short-tailed Green MagpieCissa thalassina, a member of an Asian lineage of uniquely coloured corvids, is represented by two subspecies,thalassinaandjefferyi, that occur on the islands of Java and Borneo, respectively. The distinct Javan nominate form is poorly described in the literature and next to nothing is published on its biology and occurrence in the wild. We here document the biology and distribution of this taxon based on hitherto unpublished historical data and on our own fieldwork. We also analyse vocal data ofjefferyi, thalassinaand two otherCissaspecies and show thatjefferyiandthalassinaare well-differentiated, and thatthalassinais bioacoustically more similar to anotherCissaspecies from the Asian mainland. We also demonstrate important and significant biometric differences betweenjefferyiandthalassinathat may reflect divergent adaptations to the environment, as well as plumage differences that may serve signalling functions. Finally, the application of a novel species delimitation test to our data suggests thatjefferyiandthalassinadeserve to be classified as biological species because their phenotypic divergence exceeds that found in many sympatric species. The revised taxonomic status of Javanthalassinainvites a reconsideration of its threat status. Based on its restricted range, extreme rarity and threats by bird trapping and habitat destruction, we consider the Javan Green Magpie as globally Critically Endangered.
Editorial Note
Authors: Mitkov Ruslan
Published: December 2011

Natural Language Engineering (NLE) has enjoyed another year promoting research of applied Natural Language Processing and serving the research community in the field. We were particularly pleased to register an increasing number of submissions on a wide range of topics reflecting the growing importance of the field. We were also delighted to receive a number of submissions representing the new article types announced in 2010, such as surveys and squibs.
Melanocortin-4 receptor in the medial amygdala regulates emotional stress-induced anxiety-like behaviour, anorexia and corticosterone secretion
Authors: Liu Jing , Garza Jacob C. , Li Wei , Lu Xin-Yun
Published: December 2011

The central melanocortin system has been implicated in emotional stress-induced anxiety, anorexia and activation of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. However, the underlying neural substrates have not been identified. The medial amygdala (MeA) is highly sensitive to emotional stress and expresses high levels of the melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R). This study investigated the effects of activation and blockade of MC4R in the MeA on anxiety-like behaviour, food intake and corticosterone secretion. We demonstrate that MC4R-expressing neurons in the MeA were activated by acute restraint stress, as indicated by induction of c-fos mRNA expression. Infusion of a selective MC4R agonist into the MeA elicited anxiogenic-like effects in the elevated plus-maze test and decreased food intake. In contrast, local MeA infusion of SHU 9119, a MC4R antagonist, blocked restraint stress-induced anxiogenic and anorectic effects. Moreover, plasma corticosterone levels were increased by intra-MeA infusion of the MC4R agonist under non-stressed conditions and restraint stress-induced elevation of plasma corticosterone levels was attenuated by pretreatment with SHU 9119 in the MeA. Thus, stimulating MC4R in the MeA induces stress-like anxiogenic and anorectic effects as well as activation of the HPA axis, whereas antagonizing MC4R in this region blocks such effects induced by restraint stress. Together, our results implicate MC4R signalling in the MeA in behavioural and endocrine responses to stress.
Visuospatial Processing in Memory for Word Location in Writing
Authors: Le Bigot Nathalie , Passerault Jean-Michel , Olive Thierry
Published: December 2011

Two experiments examined how visuospatial processing engaged during text composition intervenes in memory for word location. Experiment 1 showed that in contrast to participants who performed a spatial task concurrently with composing a text, participants who performed a concurrent visual task recalled fewer word locations after the composition. Consequently, it is hypothesized that writers process the written text in order to visually represent its physical layout, and that this representation is then used when locating words. Experiment 2 tested this hypothesis by comparing a standard composition condition (with the written trace) with a condition in which the written trace was suppressed during composition, and with a condition without written trace and with added visual noise. Memory for word location only decreased with visual noise, indicating that construction of the visual representation of the text does not rely on the written trace but involves visual working memory.
Multi‐payload measurement of transverse velocity shears in the topside ionosphere
Authors: Lundberg E. T. , Kintner P. M. , Lynch K. A. , Mella M. R.
Published: December 2011

Using a multi‐payload sounding rocket mission, we present the first direct measurement of velocity shear in the topside auroral ionosphere. In regions of large, ∼200 mV/m, transient electric fields we directly measure differences in the plasma drift velocity. From these differences, shear frequencies reaching ±6Hz are measured. These directly measured shears are compared with the shear inferred from single payload measurements. It is shown this traditional measurement of shear overestimates the shear frequency by a factor of two for this event, highlighting the importance of the temporal component of near‐DC electric field structures. Coincident with these strong fields and shears are enhanced emissions of broadband, extremely low frequency (BB‐ELF) plasma waves, and a narrowband wave emission near the H+‐O+bi‐ion resonant frequency.
Do phreatomagmatic eruptions at Ubehebe Crater (Death Valley, California) relate to a wetter than present hydro‐climate?
Authors: Sasnett Peri , Goehring Brent M. , Christie‐Blick Nicholas , Schaefer Joerg M.
Published: December 2011

Phreatomagmatic eruptions occur when rising magma encounters groundwater and/or surface water, causing a steam explosion and the ejection of country rock and pyroclastic material. The predominance of this type of activity at the Ubehebe volcanic field in northern Death Valley, California, is enigmatic owing to the extremely arid climate of the region. A novel application of 10Be surface exposure dating is presented to determine the timing of phreatomagmatic eruptions at Ubehebe Crater and to test the idea that volcanism may relate to a wetter than present hydro‐climate. Twelve of the fifteen ages obtained lie between 0.8 and 2.1 ka, while three samples give older, mid‐Holocene ages. The cluster between 0.8 and 2.1 ka is interpreted as encompassing the interval of volcanic activity during which Ubehebe Crater was formed. The remaining older ages are inferred to date eruptions at the older neighboring craters. The main and most recent period of activity encompasses the Medieval Warm Period, an interval of prolonged drought in the American southwest, as well as slightly wetter conditions prior to the Medieval Warm Period. Phreatomagmatic activity under varied hydrologic conditions casts doubt on the idea that eruptive timing relates to a wetter hydro‐climate. Instead, the presence of a relatively shallow modern water table suggests that sufficient groundwater was generally available for phreatomagmatic eruptions at the Ubehebe site, in spite of prevailing arid conditions. This and the youth of the most recent activity suggest that the Ubehebe volcanic field may constitute a more significant hazard than generally appreciated.
Bow shock and magnetopause contributions to the magnetospheric current system: Hints from the Cluster observations
Authors: Tang B. B. , Wang C. , Guo X. C.
Published: December 2011

We perform a statistical study of the surface current at the high‐latitude magnetopause (HLMP) and the bow shock under different southward interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) conditions, taking advantage of the crossing events of these discontinuities by the Cluster spacecraft. With an enhancement of southward IMF BZ, the surface current at HLMP reduces, while increasing at the bow shock. Since the amount of the magnetospheric current increases with the increase of southward IMF BZ, a synthesis analysis based on the Cluster observations suggests the bow shock and HLMP together contribute to the magnetospheric current system, and the bow shock would become an important current generator when the southward IMF BZ becoming large. This scenario accords with the previous global magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) simulations.
When life gets physical
Authors: Rinaldi Andrea
Published: December 2011

Does the spin of an electron allow birds to see the Earth's magnetic field? Andrea Rinaldi investigates the influence of quantum events in the biological world.
Perspectives: A Process Approach to Social Communication for Adolescents With Asperger's Syndrome Using Radio Interviewing
Authors: Thrasher Amy , Wilger Jennifer , Goldman Matthew , Whitlatch Catharine
Published: December 2011

The Perspectives program is a unique collaborative social communication intervention for adolescents with Asperger's syndrome and similar learning profiles. Clinicians use radio interviews as the vehicle to explicitly teach the process of social communication. Social skill objectives are addressed through this process approach, which was adapted from the framework of Social Thinking (Winner, 2002)
Adiabatic and non-adiabatic quantum dynamics calculation of O(1D) + D2 → OD + D reaction
Authors: Sun Zhaopeng , Lin Shi Ying , Zheng Yujun
Published: December 2011

Adiabatic (1A′ or 1A′′ state) and non-adiabatic (2A′/1A′ states) quantum dynamics calculations have been carried out for the title reaction (O(1D) + D2 → OD + D) to obtain the initial state-specified (vi = 0, ji = 0) integral cross section and rate constant using the potential energy surfaces of Dobbyn and Knowles. A total of 50 partial wave contributions have been calculated using the Chebyshev wave packet method with full Coriolis coupling to achieve convergence up to the collision energy of 0.28 eV. The total integral cross section and rate constant are in excellent agreement with experimental as well as quasi-classical trajectory results. Contributions from the adiabatic pathway of the 1A′′ state and the non-adiabatic pathway of the 2A′/1A′ states, increase significantly with the collision energy. Compared to the O(1D) + H2 system, the kinetic isotope effect (k(D)/k(H)) is found to be nearly temperature independent above 100 K and its value of 0.77 ± 0.01 shows excellent agreement with the experimental result of 0.81.
Airfoil sampling of a pulsed Laval beam with tunable vacuum ultraviolet synchrotron ionization quadrupole mass spectrometry: Application to low-temperature kinetics and product detection
Authors: Soorkia Satchin , Liu Chen-Lin , Savee John D. , Ferrell Sarah J. , Leone Stephen R. , Wilson Kevin R.
Published: December 2011

A new pulsed Laval nozzle apparatus with vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) synchrotron photoionization quadrupole mass spectrometry is constructed to study low-temperature radical-neutral chemical reactions of importance for modeling the atmosphere of Titan and the outer planets. A design for the sampling geometry of a pulsed Laval nozzle expansion has been developed that operates successfully for the determination of rate coefficients by time-resolved mass spectrometry. The new concept employs airfoil sampling of the collimated expansion with excellent sampling throughput. Time-resolved profiles of the high Mach number gas flow obtained by photoionization signals show that perturbation of the collimated expansion by the airfoil is negligible. The reaction of C2H with C2H2 is studied at 70 K as a proof-of-principle result for both low-temperature rate coefficient measurements and product identification based on the photoionization spectrum of the reaction product versus VUV photon energy. This approach can be used to provide new insights into reaction mechanisms occurring at kinetic rates close to the collision-determined limit.
Brief opportunistic smoking cessation interventions: a systematic review and meta‐analysis to compare advice to quit and offer of assistance
Authors: Aveyard Paul , Begh Rachna , Parsons Amanda , West Robert
Published: December 2011

Aims  This study aimed to assess the effects of opportunistic brief physician advice to stop smoking and offer of assistance on incidence of attempts to stop and quit success in smokers not selected by motivation to quit.

Methods  We included relevant trials from the Cochrane Reviews of physician advice for smoking cessation, nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), varenicline and bupropion. We extracted data on quit attempts and quit success. Estimates were combined using the Mantel–Haentszel method and heterogeneity assessed with the I2 statistic. Study quality was assessed by method of randomization, allocation concealment and follow‐up blind to allocation.

Results  Thirteen studies were included. Compared to no intervention, advice to quit on medical grounds increased the frequency of quit attempts [risk ratio (RR) 1.24, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.16–1.33], but not as much as behavioural support for cessation (RR 2.17, 95% CI 1.52–3.11) or offering NRT (RR 1.68, 95% CI: 1.48–1.89). In a direct comparison, offering assistance generated more quit attempts than giving advice to quit on medical grounds (RR 1.69, 95% CI: 1.24–2.31 for behavioural support and 1.39, 95% CI: 1.25–1.54 for offering medication). There was evidence that medical advice increased the success of quit attempts and inconclusive evidence that offering assistance increased their success.

Conclusions  Physicians may be more effective in promoting attempts to stop smoking by offering assistance to all smokers than by advising smokers to quit and offering assistance only to those who express an interest in doing so.
Psidium guajava L. anti‐neoplastic effects: induction of apoptosis and cell differentiation
Authors: Bontempo P. , Doto A. , Miceli M. , Mita L. , Benedetti R. , Nebbioso A. , Veglione M. , Rigano D. , Cioffi M. , Sica V. , Molinari A. M. , Altucci L.
Published: December 2011

Objectives:  Curative properties of medicinal plants such as Psidium guajava L. (Myrtaceae) have often been indicated by epidemiological studies on populations in which these fruits are consumed daily. However, complete characterization of the active principles responsible for this ability has never been performed. Here, we have characterized P. guajava’s anti‐cancer potential and identified the parts of the fruit involved in its anti‐neoplastic action.

Materials and methods:  We studied morphology of our cells, cell cycle characteristics and apoptosis and performed immunostaining, differentiation and western blot analyses.

Results:  We report that the P. guajava extract exerted anti‐cancer control on both haematological and solid neoplasias. P. guajava extract’s anti‐tumour properties were found to be tightly bound to induction of apoptosis and differentiation. Use of ex vivo myeloid leukaemia blasts corroborated that P. guajava was able to induce cell death but did not exhibit anti‐cancer effects on all malignant cells investigated, indicating selective activity against certain types of tumour. Analyses of P. guajava pulp, peel and seeds identified the pulp as being the most relevant component for causing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, whereas peel was responsible for causing cell differentiation. P. guajava itself and its pulp‐derived extract were found to induce apoptosis accompanied by caspase activation and p16, p21, Fas ligand (FASL TNF super‐family, member 6), Bcl‐2‐associated agonist of cell death (BAD) and tumour necrosis factor receptor super‐family, member 10b (DR5), overexpression.

Conclusions:  Our findings showed that P. guajava L. extract was able to exert anti‐cancer activity on cultures in vitro and ex vivo, supporting the hypothesis of its anti malignant pro‐apoptotic modulation.
Astragalus membranaceus lectin (AML) induces caspase‐dependent apoptosis in human leukemia cells
Authors: Huang L. H. , Yan Q. J. , Kopparapu N. K. , Jiang Z. Q. , Sun Y.
Published: December 2011

Objectives:  Recently, plant lectins have attracted great interest due to their various biological activities such as anti‐cancer, anti‐fungal and anti‐viral activities. We have reported earlier concerning anti‐proliferation of human cancer cell lines by a galactose‐binding lectin (AML), from a Chinese herb, Astragalus membranaceus. In the present study, detailed investigations into the mechanism of such anti‐proliferation properties have been carried out.

Materials and methods:  Mechanism of apoptosis initiation in K562 cells by AML was investigated by morphology, flow cytometry and western blot analysis.

Results:  AML induced apoptosis in a caspase‐dependent manner in the chronic myeloid leukemia cell line, K562. Furthermore, we observed that cytotoxicity and apoptosis of K562 cells induced by AML were completely abolished in presence of lactose or galactose.

Conclusions:  Our results suggest that AML could act as a potential anti‐cancer drug.
Diet composition does not affect ant colony tempo
Authors: Kay Adam D. , Shik Jonathan Z. , Van Alst Andy , Miller Katie A. , Kaspari Michael
Published: December 2011

1. Resource availability can influence the structure of animal communities by mediating competitive interactions. An underappreciated aspect of resource ecology is how functional traits are built from particular sets of nutrients and thus are underexpressed when those nutrients are scarce.

2. One idea linking resource availability to competition is the metabolic fuel hypothesis, which posits that access to carbohydrate‐rich resources favours high activity rates that increase competitive prowess. One prediction of this hypothesis is that an increase in dietary carbohydrate richness will lead to an increase in consumer metabolic rate (MR). An alternative prediction is that carbohydrate‐rich diets will affect biochemical storage.

3. We tested these predictions by examining the effect of dietary protein : carbohydrate (P : C) ratio on the feeding behaviour, demography, physiology and MR of colonies of Ectatomma ruidum, a common tropical ant. We found that rearing colonies for 6 weeks on different P : C diets altered colony demography and worker storage biochemistry, but higher carbohydrate intake did not result in an increase in whole‐colony MR.

4. Our results suggest that dietary carbohydrates may increase colony dominance through changes in colony composition and individual worker longevity rather than changes in worker activity rates. More generally, they illustrate how the identity of scarce nutrients can have particular effects on traits that impact ecological interactions.
Direct physiological effects of nitrogen on Sphagnum: a greenhouse experiment
Authors: Granath Gustaf , Strengbom Joachim , Rydin Håkan
Published: December 2011

1. Bogs are nutrient‐poor peatland ecosystems that are sensitive to nitrogen (N) deposition. Production of peat mosses (i.e. the peat‐forming genus Sphagnum) is known to decrease under elevated N deposition, but the causal mechanisms are poorly understood.

2. It is predicted that increased N deposition will cause changes in Sphagnum species composition, with fast‐growing species benefiting from increased N availability in contrast to slow‐growing species. Knowledge of species‐specific responses to N availability can help us to understand interspecific competitive relationships.

3. We investigated the direct effects of N application on plant physiology in three Sphagnum species by exposing shoots to a range of N doses (corresponding to depositions of 0–5·6 g m−2 year−1), over 5 months, in a greenhouse experiment. The species investigated included one that grows high above the water‐table (Sphagnum fuscum) and two that grow lower down (Sphagnum balticum and Sphagnum fallax). S. fuscum and S. balticum originate from ombrotrophic and S. fallax from minerotrophic environments. To estimate N responses, we measured the performance and light‐capture kinetics of the photosynthetic apparatus (maximum photosynthetic rate and Fv/Fm), biomass production, shoot formation, and N and phosphorus (P) concentrations in the tissue.

4. Tissue nitrogen concentration generally increased with N application rate, and photosynthetic rate increased with N concentration, although S. balticum exhibited a unimodal response. With respect to production, a negative response to N application rate was found in S. fallax and S. fuscum (weak), while production in S. balticum was unrelated to application rate. S. fallax was the fastest‐growing species, producing two to three times more biomass per shoot compared with the other species.

5. The mismatch between photosynthetic capacity and production could partly be explained by an increased N : P ratio following N application. Phosphorus limitation may not negatively affect photosynthetic capacity, but may hamper production.

6. The fast‐growing species S. fallax is considered to benefit from increased N deposition, but we found a negative physiological response, suggesting stoichiometric constraints. Thus, we conclude that responses to N deposition cannot be predicted in a simple way from physiological traits related to growth rate without considering local environmental factors.
Opportunity lost? Psychiatric medications and problems with sexual function: a role for nurses in mental health
Authors: Quinn Chris , Happell Brenda , Browne Graeme
Published: December 2011

Aim.  To explore patients’ non‐adherence to psychiatric medication with mental health nurses.

Background.  The ability of consumers to maintain normal sexual behaviours is complicated by abnormally high incidence of sexual problems arising from the medications they are prescribed. Sexual side effects of psychiatric medications are identified as a major reason for non‐adherence to psychiatric medication regimes yet it remains an issue mental health nurses tend to avoid in their practice with consumers.

Design.  An exploratory, descriptive qualitative approach.

Method.  Individual interviews were conducted with 14 nurses currently working with adult consumers of mental health services. Data analysis followed the framework approach developed by Ritchie and Spencer as the process for identification of the main themes.

Results.  Problems with sexual function in relation to psychiatric medication issues was one major theme to emerge from this research. More specifically the participants referred to: assessment of sexual function, the side effects of psychiatric medication, consumer embarrassment, and, the pros and cons of information. Participants recognised that sexual side effects were likely to have an impact on adherence to medication and that this was an important consideration but most did not discuss this issue with consumers. Consumer embarrassment and the belief that knowledge itself might cause non‐adherence were the two main reasons for not discussing this topic.

Conclusions.  Problems with sexual function of consumers presents an important practice consideration for nurses working in mental health settings. There is an urgent need for strategies to enhance awareness and confidence among nurses in exploring this topic with consumers.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Mental health nurses can adopt a leadership role in recognising the relevance of sexuality in care and treatment for consumers of mental health services. Strategies to assist in developing skill and confidence in this domain are required as a matter of priority.
Atopic diseases in twins born after assisted reproduction
Authors: Jäderberg Ida , Thomsen Simon F. , Kyvik Kirsten O. , Skytthe Axel , Backer Vibeke
Published: December 2011

Jäderberg I, Thomsen SF, Kyvik KO, Skytthe A, Backer V. Atopic diseases in twins born after assisted reproduction. Paediatric and Perinatal Epidemiology 2012; 26: 140–145.

We examined the risk of atopic diseases in twins born after assisted reproduction. Data on atopic diseases and assisted reproduction in 9694 twin pairs, 3–20 years of age, from the Danish Twin Registry were collected via multidisciplinary questionnaires. The risk of atopic diseases in twins born after assisted reproduction was compared with the risk in twins born after spontaneous conception using logistic regression and variance components analysis. Children born after assisted reproduction did not have a different risk of atopic outcomes (adjusted odds ratios [95% confidence intervals] for asthma: 0.95 [0.85, 1.07], P = 0.403; hay fever: 1.01 [0.86, 1.18], P = 0.918; and atopic dermatitis: 1.02 [0.81, 1.11], P = 0.773 respectively) compared with children born after spontaneous conception. Assisted reproduction did not modify the heritability of atopic diseases. This study does not support an association between assisted reproduction and development of atopic diseases. This result must be confirmed in subsequent studies, preferably of singleton populations.
Plasmodesmatal pores in the torus of bordered pit membranes affect cavitation resistance of conifer xylem
Authors: JANSEN S. , LAMY J.‐B. , BURLETT R. , COCHARD H. , GASSON P. , DELZON S.
Published: December 2011

The pit membrane in bordered pits of conifer tracheids is characterized by a porous margo and central thickening (torus), which is traditionally considered to function as an impermeable safety valve against air‐seeding. However, electron microscopy based on 33 conifer species, including five families and 19 genera, reveals that pores occur in the torus of 13 of the species studied. The pores have a plasmodesmatal origin with an average diameter of 51 nm and grouped arrangement. Evidence for embolism spreading via pores in tori is supported by the pore sizes, which correspond relatively well with the pressure inducing cavitation. Predictions based on earlier correlations between pit structure and cavitation resistance were only weakly supported for species with punctured tori. Moreover, species with punctured tori are significantly less resistant to cavitation than species with non‐punctured tori. Nevertheless, absolute pore diameters must be treated with caution and correlations between theoretical and measured air‐seeding pressures are weak. Because most pores appear not to traverse the torus but are limited to one torus pad, only complete pores would trigger air‐seeding. Embolism spreading through a leaky torus is not universal across gymnosperms and unlikely to represent the only air‐seeding mechanism.