bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AMPK‐mediated autophagy inhibits apoptosis in cisplatin‐treated tumour cells
Authors: Harhaji‐Trajkovic L. , Vilimanovich U. , Kravic‐Stevovic T. , Bumbasirevic V. , Trajkovic V.
Published: January 2010

The role of autophagy in cisplatin anticancer action was investigated using human U251 glioma, rat C6 glioma and mouse L929 fibrosarcoma cell lines. A dose‐ and time‐dependent induction of autophagy was observed in tumour cells following cisplatin treatment, as demonstrated by up‐regulation of autophagy‐inducing protein beclin‐1 and subsequent appearance of acridine orange‐stained acidic autophagic vesicles. The presence of autophagosomes in cisplatin‐treated cells was also confirmed by electron microscopy. Inhibition of autophagy with lysosomal inhibitors bafilomycin A1 and chloroquine, or a PI3 kinase inhibitor wortmannin, markedly augmented cisplatin‐triggered oxidative stress and caspase activation, leading to an increase in DNA fragmentation and apoptotic cell death. The mechanisms underlying the protective effect of autophagy apparently involved the interference with cisplatin‐induced modulation of Bcl‐2 family proteins, as inhibition of autophagy potentiated cisplatin‐mediated up‐regulation of proapoptotic Bax and down‐regulation of anti‐apoptotic Bcl‐2. Autophagy induction in cisplatin‐treated cells was preceded by activation of adenosine monophosphate‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) and concomitant down‐regulation of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR)‐mediated phosphorylation of p70S6 kinase. The ability of cisplatin to trigger autophagy was reduced by small interfering RNA (siRNA)‐mediated AMPK silencing, while transfection with mTOR siRNA was sufficient to trigger autophagy in tumour cells. Finally, siRNA‐mediated AMPK down‐regulation and AMPK inhibitor compound C increased cisplatin‐induced tumour cell death, while mTOR siRNA and AMPK activator metformin protected tumour cells from cisplatin. Taken together, these data suggest that cisplatin‐triggered activation of AMPK and subsequent suppression of mTOR activity can induce an autophagic response that protects tumour cells from cisplatin‐mediated apoptotic death.
Interferon regulatory factor‐8 modulates the development of tumour‐induced CD11b+Gr‐1+ myeloid cells
Authors: Stewart Trina J. , Greeneltch Kristy M. , Reid Julia E. , Liewehr David J. , Steinberg Seth M. , Liu Kebin , Abrams Scott I.
Published: January 2010

Tumour‐induced myeloid‐derived suppressor cells (MDSC) promote immune suppression and mediate tumour progression. However, the molecular basis for the generation of MDSC, which in mice co‐express the CD11b+ and Gr‐1+ cell surface markers remains unclear. Because CD11b+Gr‐1+ cells expand during progressive tumour growth, this suggests that tumour‐induced events alter signalling pathways that affect normal myeloid cell development. Interferon regulatory factor‐8 (IRF‐8), a member of the IFN‐γ regulatory factor family, is essential for normal myelopoiesis. We therefore examined whether IRF‐8 modulated tumour‐induced CD11b+Gr‐1+ cell development or accumulation using both implantable (4T1) and transgenic (MMTV‐PyMT) mouse models of mammary tumour growth. In the 4T1 model, both splenic and bone marrow‐derived CD11b+Gr‐1+ cells of tumour‐bearing mice displayed a marked reduction in IRF‐8 expression compared to control populations. A causal link between IRF‐8 expression and the emergence of tumour‐induced CD11b+Gr‐1+ cells was explored in vivo using a double transgenic (dTg) mouse model designed to express transgenes for both IRF‐8 and mammary carcinoma development. Despite the fact that tumour growth was unaffected, splenomegaly, as well as the frequencies and absolute numbers of CD11b+Gr‐1+ cells were significantly lower in dTg mice when compared with single transgenic tumour‐bearing mice. Overall, these data reveal that IRF‐8 plays an important role in tumour‐induced development and/or accumulation of CD11b+Gr‐1+ cells, and establishes a molecular basis for the potential manipulation of these myeloid populations for cancer therapy.
Ontogenetic habitat shifts and habitat use in an endangered minnow, Notropis mekistocholas
Authors: Henderson A. R. , Johnston C. E.
Published: January 2010

Henderson AR, Johnston CE. Ontogenetic habitat shifts and habitat use in an endangered minnow, Notropis mekistocholas. Ecology of Freshwater Fish 2010: 19: 87–95.  © 2009 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Abstract –  Information on larval and juvenile habitat use is virtually absent for fishes. Our objective was to document habitat use of larval and juvenile Cape Fear shiners Notropis mekistocholas, an endangered species, in both natural and lab settings so that a better understanding of habitat requirements in all life stages can be achieved. We measured habitat parameters of areas used by all life stages of N. mekistocholas in the summers of 2007–2008 in the Rocky River, North Carolina. Field data suggests larvae use more shallow depths (mean = 31.6 cm) and reduced water velocities (mean = 0.02 m·s−1) than adults (mean = 56.3 cm, 0.10 m·s−1), and juveniles 15–25 mm often school with adults. Results of lab studies support field observations. In the mesolarval and metalarval stages N. mekistocholas were selective in their use of water velocity (P = 0.013) and depth (P = 0.001). In multiple juvenile stages, N. mekistocholas were selective for water velocity (P = 0.015), and depth (P < 0.001), choosing deeper depths and higher water velocities than larvae. These results demonstrate ontogenetic shifts in habitat use of N. mekistocholas and suggest that water velocity and depth are critical to successful recruitment for this species.
Amyloid‐β neurotoxicity in organotypic culture is attenuated by melatonin: involvement of GSK‐3β, tau and neuroinflammation
Authors: Hoppe Juliana Bender , Frozza Rudimar Luiz , Horn Ana Paula , Comiran Ricardo Argenta , Bernardi Andressa , Campos Maria Martha , Battastini Ana Maria Oliveira , Salbego Christianne
Published: January 2010

Abstract:  Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder marked by accumulation of extracellular deposits of amyloid‐β (Aβ) peptide in brain regions that are important for memory and cognition. The buildup of Aβ aggregates in the AD is followed by the formation of intracellular neurofibrillary tangles and activation of neuroinflammatory reactions. The present study investigated whether melatonin possesses a neuroprotective effect against Aβ‐induced toxicity. For this purpose, organotypic hippocampal slices were cultured and exposed to 25 μm of Aβ25–35 in the absence or in the presence of melatonin (25, 50, or 100 μm). In addition, the authors have investigated the involvement of GSK‐3β, tau protein, astroglial, and microglial activation, and cytokine levels in the melatonin protection against Aβ‐induced neurotoxicity. Melatonin prevented the cell damage in hippocampus induced by the exposure to Aβ25–35. In addition, melatonin significantly reduced the activation of GSK‐3β, the phosphorylation of tau protein, the glial activation and the Aβ‐induced increase of TNF‐α and IL‐6 levels. On the basis of these findings, we speculate that melatonin may provide an effective therapeutic strategy for AD, by attenuating Aβ‐induced phosphorylation of tau protein, and preventing GSK‐3β activation and neuroinflammation.
Traits, neighbors, and species performance in prairie restoration
Authors: Roberts R.E. , Clark D.L. , Wilson M.V.
Published: January 2010

Questions: Are traits related to the performance of plant species in restoration? Are the relationships between traits and performance consistent across the functional groups of annual forbs, perennial forbs and grasses? Do the relationships between traits and performance depend on neighboring functional groups?

Location: A former agricultural field, being restored to native upland prairie, in the Willamette Valley of western Oregon, USA.

Methods: Twenty‐eight native species, representing three functional groups, were sown in seven different combinations. Eleven functional traits were measured from plants in the laboratory and in the field. Correlations between individual traits and performance variables were measured and regression techniques used to determine which sets of traits were most strongly related to performance.

Results: Sets of traits explained up to 56% of variation in cover, and up to 48% of variation in establishment frequency. The relationships between traits and performance were influenced by functional group identity; the functional group identity of neighboring species also influenced species' cover and the relationships between traits and cover. Species' establishment rate in monoculture was the trait most strongly correlated to both establishment and cover in mixtures. In multi‐trait models, annual forb functional group identity was strongly related to establishment in mixtures, and height, leaf weight ratio at 7 d and seed mass were strongly related to cover.

Conclusions: Multiple‐trait models should be a useful way of predicting the performance of species prior to sowing in restoration. The functional group identity of each species and the other species being sown may need to be taken into account when making predictions.
Considerations for a Better Definition of Male Orgasmic Disorder in DSM V
Authors: Segraves Robert T.
Published: January 2010

Introduction

All of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th Ed., text revision (DSM-IV-TR) criteria for sexual disorders have been criticized on multiple grounds, including that the criteria lack precision, that the requirement of marked distress is inappropriate, and that the specification of etiological subtypes should be deleted.

Aim

The goal of this article is to review evidence relevant to diagnostic criteria for male orgasmic disorder published since 1990.

Methods

Medline searches from 1990 forward were conducted using the terms male orgasmic disorder, anorgasmia, delayed ejaculation, retarded ejaculation, ejaculatory delay, and ejaculatory disorder. Early drafts of proposed alterations in diagnostic criteria were submitted to advisors.

Main Outcome Measure

Evidence reviewed was judged by current usage of terminology, evidence allowing precise definition of the syndrome, and evidence concerning separation of the syndrome from distress.

Results

The literature search indicated minimal use of the term male orgasmic disorder and minimal knowledge concerning psychogenic ejaculatory problems.

Conclusions

It is recommended that the term male orgasmic disorder be replaced with the term delayed ejaculation. Duration and severity criteria are recommended. Since many ejaculatory problems are idiopathic, it is recommended that the etiological subtypes due to psychological or due to combined factors be eliminated.
Biological performance of Myzus persicae and Macrosiphum euphorbiae (Homoptera: Aphididae) on seven wild Solanum species
Authors: Pelletier Y. , Pompon J. , Dexter P. , Quiring D.
Published: January 2010

Resistance level of seven accessions of wild Solanum species (Solanaceae) to Myzus persicae and Macrosiphum euphorbiae (Homoptera: Aphididae) was evaluated by measuring survival and fecundity during sleeve cage experiments and population growth on whole plants in a controlled environment. The survival was lowest on the Solanum circaeifolium spp. capsicibaccatum, Solanum pinnatisectum and Solanum trifidum accessions for M. persicae and on the S. circaeifolium spp. capsicibaccatum, Solanum okadae and S. trifidum, accessions with M. euphorbiae. Plant species significantly influenced the fecundity of both aphid species. Aphid population growth on whole plants was negatively affected by the age of the plant, but generally followed the levels of net reproductive rate on different plant species observed during the sleeve cage experiment. The population of M. persicae varied among the seven wild potato accessions with the lowest growth rates on S. circaeifolium spp. capsicibaccatum, Solanum polyadenium, Solanum tarijense and S. trifidum. The number of M. euphorbiae also varied among accessions but the smallest population was collected from S. polyadenium. The results can be used to identify sources of resistance to aphids within those accessions already known to be resistant to the Colorado potato beetle. This study highlights the difficulties involved in developing a high‐throughput screening test for aphid resistance compatible with a potato breeding programme.
Using Atmospheric Tracers to Reduce Uncertainty in Groundwater Recharge Areas
Authors: Starn J. Jeffrey , Bagtzoglou Amvrossios C. , Robbins Gary A.
Published: January 2010

A Monte Carlo‐based approach to assess uncertainty in recharge areas shows that incorporation of atmospheric tracer observations (in this case, tritium concentration) and prior information on model parameters leads to more precise predictions of recharge areas. Variance‐covariance matrices, from model calibration and calculation of sensitivities, were used to generate parameter sets that account for parameter correlation and uncertainty. Constraining parameter sets to those that met acceptance criteria, which included a standard error criterion, did not appear to bias model results. Although the addition of atmospheric tracer observations and prior information produced similar changes in the extent of predicted recharge areas, prior information had the effect of increasing probabilities within the recharge area to a greater extent than atmospheric tracer observations. Uncertainty in the recharge area propagates into predictions that directly affect water quality, such as land cover in the recharge area associated with a well and the residence time associated with the well. Assessments of well vulnerability that depend on these factors should include an assessment of model parameter uncertainty. A formal simulation of parameter uncertainty can be used to delineate probabilistic recharge areas, and the results can be expressed in ways that can be useful to water‐resource managers. Although no one model is the correct model, the results of multiple models can be evaluated in terms of the decision being made and the probability of a given outcome from each model.
Considerations for the use of progestin‐only contraceptives
Authors: Freeman Sarah , Shulman Lee P.
Published: January 2010

Purpose: To highlight the characteristics of progestin‐only contraceptives (POCs) currently available in the United States, and to explore the potential of these agents as first‐line contraceptive options for women seeking health promotion by prevention of an unwanted pregnancy. The progestin‐only pills (Micronor and Ovrette), depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) injections (Depo‐Provera and depo‐subQ provera 104), levonorgestrel intrauterine system (IUS) (Mirena), and etonogestrel implant (Implanon) will be reviewed. The use of levonorgestrel (Plan B) as an emergency contraceptive will also be considered briefly.

Data sources: Worldwide medical literature and the prescribing information for the specified products.

Conclusions: A number of POCs are currently available for routine birth control in the United States, ranging from the daily progestin‐only pill to nondaily contraceptive options such as injectable DMPA, the levonorgestrel‐releasing IUS, and the etonogestrel‐releasing contraceptive implant. Each of these methods has specific advantages, but also specific drawbacks that can result in discontinuation of treatment if users are not given adequate information about what to expect in terms of side effects. It is critical that clinicians provide adequate and accurate information along with detailed counseling to women who are considering using POCs, as well as providing periodic reinforcement of the information at regular clinic visits for those already using POCs.

Implications for practice: Given that a large number of pregnancies are unplanned and create a significant impact on social, economic, and health outcomes, it is important for the clinician to have a vast knowledge of contraceptive options. POCs offer significant choices in contraception. By proactively addressing common concerns (such as potential effects on weight, mood, menstrual bleeding patterns, and bone mineral density), clinicians may improve the likelihood of adherence and continuation with POCs for routine birth control.
Evidence of African‐American women's frustrations with chronic recurrent bacterial vaginosis
Authors: Payne Sandra C. , Cromer Pamela R. , Stanek Michele K. , Palmer Allyson A.
Published: January 2010

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore the impact of recurrent bacterial vaginosis (BV) and its treatment on quality of life (QOL), acceptance of current treatment options, and psychosocial issues related to lifestyle practices associated with BV.

Data sources: Qualitative and quantitative data were obtained from 23 African American women with recurrent BV. Participants completed a short survey, developed by the researchers based on a prior study which examined factors associated with recurrent BV, and a one‐on‐one interview assessing the impact of BV, current treatment modalities, and lifestyle practices related to recurrent BV.

Conclusions: Emerging themes suggest that recurrent BV is associated with psychosocial issues that are currently not addressed in a typical office visit. Reported feelings of shame and embarrassment often cause women to engage in hypervigilant routines of hygiene that negatively impact their professional, personal, and intimate relationships, significantly affecting their QOL.

Implications for practice: Without proper education, advice, and support, BV is perpetuated by lifestyle practices leading to recurrent infection and associated symptoms. With proper guidance, it is expected that women with recurrent BV will see an improvement in their QOL, with fewer complications from BV infection, and healthy relationships with intimate partners, family, and friends.
Diagnosis and management of endometriosis: The role of the advanced practice nurse in primary care
Authors: Mao Alexandra J. , Anastasi Joyce K.
Published: January 2010

Purpose: To discuss the etiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of endometriosis for the advanced practice nurse (APN) in primary care.

Data sources: Selected research, clinical studies, clinical practice guidelines, and review articles.

Conclusions: Commonly encountered by the APN in primary care, endometriosis is a chronic, progressive inflammatory disease characterized by endometrial lesions, cysts, fibrosis, or adhesions in the pelvic cavity, causing chronic pelvic pain and infertility in women of reproductive age. Because of its frequently normal physical examination findings, variable clinical presentations, and nonspecific, overlapping symptoms with other conditions, endometriosis can be difficult to diagnose. As there currently are no accurate noninvasive diagnostic tests specific for endometriosis, it is imperative for the APN to become knowledgeable about the etiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and current treatment options of this disease.

Implications for practice: The APN in primary care plays an essential role in health promotion through disease management and infertility prevention by providing support and much needed information to the patient with endometriosis. APNs can also facilitate quality of care and manage treatments effectively to improve quality of life, reduce pain, and prevent further progression of disease. Practice recommendations include timely diagnosis, pain management, infertility counseling, patient education, and support for quality of life issues.
Focus on communication: increasing the opportunity for successful staff–patient interactions
Authors: McGilton Kathy , Sorin‐Peters Riva , Sidani Souraya , Rochon Elizabeth , Boscart Veronique , Fox Mary
Published: January 2010

mcgilton k., sorin‐peters r., sidani s., rochon e., boscart v. & fox m. (2010) Focus on communication: increasing the opportunity for successful staff–patient interactions. International Journal of Older People Nursing 6, 13–24 doi: 10.1111/j.1748‐3743.2010.00210.x

Objectives.  This study reports on a pilot study examining the feasibility of a Patient‐Centred Communication Intervention. Aims of this study include: assessing the implementation of the communication care plans; identifying staff perceptions of the intervention; exploring changes in patients’ perceptions of care and psychosocial functioning; and exploring changes in nurses’ knowledge of and attitude towards communication with patients.

Background.  More than 50% of stroke survivors have speech and language impairments. Many nurses lack the specialized skills to effectively communicate with patients and therefore have difficulties understanding the patients’ needs.

Design.  A one‐group pre‐ post‐test design supplemented with a focus group session with nursing staff was used. The intervention consisted of developing individualized communication plans; attending at a workshop; and implementing a system to support nurses when using the plans. The plans were used over a 2‐month period. Focus groups were held with seven nurses.

Results.  The pilot study demonstrated feasibility. There was an excellent response rate and nurses adhered to the intervention.

Conclusion.  The Patient‐Centred Communication Intervention is feasible and has demonstrated potential for a larger‐scale study.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Providing tailored approaches to communication‐enhancement education may be necessary for changes in practice to occur.
Value Messages Collide with Reality: Joseph Kurihara and the Power of Informal Education
Authors: Tamura Eileen H.
Published: January 2010

On a cool, crisp winter afternoon in a California desert, at the foot of the eastern slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, a crowd of more than two thousand people gathered. Some were curious; more were angry. Before all of them, standing on an oil tank with a microphone and loudspeaker, forty-seven-year-old Joseph Y. Kurihara shouted angry words of defiance. Referring to the generally despised Fred Tayama, who was assaulted the night before, Kurihara bellowed, “Why permit that sneak to pollute the air we breathe? … Let's kill him and feed him to the roving coyotes! … If the Administration refuses to listen to our demand, let us proceed with him and exterminate all other informers in this camp.”
Educational Discourse and the Making of Educational Legislation in Early Upper Canada
Authors: Di Mascio Anthony
Published: January 2010

In 1787, a group of American refugee settlers in the western portion of Quebec, which would become the colony of Upper Canada in 1791, collectively petitioned the Governor General, Lord Dorchester, for schools. They insisted, in fact, on a relatively comprehensive network of schools funded directly through the government purse. Dorchester responded by appointing William Smith, the former Chief Justice of New York State with whom he had formed a political friendship during the American War of Independence, to head a special committee to report on the state of education throughout the entire province. Several hundred copies of the report were printed and released in 1789. The report recommended a government-supported tripartite elementary, secondary, and university school system. The recommendations were not acted upon, but the report's ideas lingered in public discourse for years to come. In the writing of the origins of schooling in Upper Canada, this report has not received considerable attention. Moreover, the intentions and goals of these early settlers advocating for government-aided schooling are characteristically overlooked. In the dominant view, the building of Upper Canada's school system was motivated by the bureaucratization and institutionalization concerns of major school advocates and politicians in the mid-nineteenth century.
Forging a Fundamentalist “One Best System”: Struggles Over Curriculum and Educational Philosophy for Christian Day Schools, 1970–1989
Authors: Laats Adam
Published: January 2010

No introductions were necessary. By the time of this meeting on May 2, 1972, all of the educators around the table had worked together in the tightly knit community of Protestant fundamentalist education for decades. Those close relationships, however, only made the meeting's confrontational agenda all the more awkward and tense. Beka Horton read the charges. Horton, with her husband Arlin, had founded a thriving fundamentalist school in Pensacola, Florida. The Hortons had invited Dayton Hobbs for support. Hobbs was, like the Hortons, a graduate of fundamentalist Bob Jones University (BJU) and founder of a fundamentalist school in Florida. The Hortons accused Walter Fremont and Phil Smith, leaders of the education faculty at BJU, of one of the most devastating charges in the world of fundamentalist education. They had called this meeting with Bob Jones III, current leader of BJU and grandson of the founder, in order to apprise him of their suspicions that Fremont and Smith had become progressive educators.
Potentialities of High‐Pressure Homogenization to Inactivate Zygosaccharomyces bailii in Fruit Juices
Authors: Patrignani Francesca , Vannini Lucia , Kamdem Sylvain Leroy Sado , Lanciotti Rosalba , Guerzoni M. Elisabetta
Published: January 2010

ABSTRACT:  This experimental work was aimed to evaluate the effects of repeated high‐pressure homogenization (HPH) treatments at 100 MPa on the inactivation and regrowth of Zygosaccharomyces bailii inoculated in apricot and carrot juices. Thus, the spoilage yeast was inoculated in both the juices at level of about 5 log CFU/g and the 2 systems were treated with a lab‐scale Panda homogenizer for 8 passes at 100 MPa. Microbiological and chemico‐physical analyses were performed immediately after the treatment and during the juice storage at room temperature. Microbial data highlighted that yeast inactivation increased with the number of passes applied. Eight passes at 100 MPa allowed yeast inactivation higher than 2.5 log CFU/mL regardless of the juice considered. On the contrary, the juice type affected the yeast fate (growth or death) over the storage at 25 °C. In fact, Z. bailii was able to attain the spoilage threshold (6 log CFU/mL) in apricot juice, although with growth kinetics dependent of the survivor levels after HPH treatment. In carrot juice this microorganism was unable to recover over the storage in the most severely treated samples. The HPH treatment had a significant effect on apricot juice pH and viscosity, while no significant effect was observed in carrot juice. The viscosity measurements showed that the application of one pass at 100 MPa resulted in the triplication of apricot viscosity index. No further significant viscosity increase (P > 0.05) was observed increasing the number of passes at 100 MPa.

Practical Application: The results obtained in the present study and the proposed technology could be exploited by the industries of the beverage sector to increase the shelf life of these kinds of products. Moreover, from a technological point of view, the increase of viscosity, following the high‐pressure homogenization treatment, represents a tool to expand the product gamma without the use of gelling additives or thermal treatments, which are detrimental for the sensorial and nutritional properties of this kind of products.
Biopolymer Nanoparticles from Heat‐Treated Electrostatic Protein–Polysaccharide Complexes: Factors Affecting Particle Characteristics
Authors: Jones Owen Griffith , McClements David Julian
Published: January 2010

ABSTRACT:  Biopolymer nanoparticles can be formed by heating globular protein–ionic polysaccharide electrostatic complexes above the thermal denaturation temperature of the protein. This study examined how the size and concentration of biopolymer particles formed by heating β‐lactoglobulin–pectin complexes could be manipulated by controlling preparation conditions: pH, ionic strength, protein concentration, holding time, and holding temperature. Biopolymer particle size and concentration increased with increasing holding time (0 to 30 min), decreasing holding temperature (90 to 70 °C), increasing protein concentration (0 to 2 wt/wt%), increasing pH (4.5 to 5), and increasing salt concentration (0 to 50 mol/kg). The influence of these factors on biopolymer particle size was attributed to their impact on protein–polysaccharide interactions, and on the kinetics of nucleation and particle growth. The knowledge gained from this study will facilitate the rational design of biopolymer particles with specific physicochemical and functional attributes.
Assessing the reliability of biodiversity databases: identifying evenly inventoried island parasitoid faunas (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonoidea) worldwide
Authors: SANTOS ANA M. C. , JONES OWEN R. , QUICKE DONALD L. J. , HORTAL JOAQUÍN
Published: January 2010

Abstract.  1. Taxonomic and geographic biases are common in biodiversity inventories, especially in hyperdiverse taxa, such as the Ichneumonoidea. Despite these problems, biodiversity databases could be a valuable source of information if their reliability is carefully assessed.

2. One major problem of using these data for large‐scale analyses is the unevenness of data quality from different areas, which makes them difficult to compare. One way of surpassing such problem would be to identify sets of areas that are evenly inventoried.

3. Here, we propose a scoring protocol for the identification of sets of evenly inventoried areas from taxonomic databases, based on three criteria: (i) completeness at high taxonomic levels, (ii) congruence with well‐established ecological relationships (such as species–area relationship), and (iii) publication effort received. We apply this protocol to the selection of a set of evenly inventoried islands worldwide for two Ichneumonoidea families (Braconidae and Ichneumonidae) from the data gathered in Taxapad database.

4. From the 118 islands included in Taxapad, 53 and 70 can be considered sufficiently inventoried for Braconidae and Ichneumonidae, respectively. The publication effort criterion was more restrictive than the other two criteria. The Indomalayan, Nearctic and Palearctic regions had more than half of their islands identified as evenly inventoried, for both families.

5. We discuss the generality of the biases and incompleteness of most biodiversity data, and also how the basic principles of the protocol proposed here can be applied to taxonomic databases devoted to other taxa. Also, the islands identified here can serve as the basis for large‐scale analyses of the poorly known biogeography of the Ichneumonoidea.
Cueing the Visitor: The Museum Theater and the Visitor Performance
Authors: Yellis Ken
Published: January 2010

There are an estimated 17,500 museums in the United States. If people think these institutions are pretty much the same once you get inside or that the differences between them are unimportant, it might be hard to persuade them that all 17,500 are needed. Exhibitions can have great transformational power; why don’t they exercise that power more often? Have museums not fully understood exhibitions as a medium? Have we not devoted enough attention to the full repertoire of visitor feelings? Have visitors been telling us this and we have failed to listen? For many people, museums play many roles in their lives; for most others few or none. How can this be? “Museum‐adept” visitors seem to prize museums as theaters in which their own emotional and spiritual journeys can be staged, but what about the non‐museum‐adept? Can the museum‐adept teach us how to realize our medium’s full potential?
Fabrication of large area ultrathin silicon membrane: Application for high efficiency extreme ultraviolet diffraction gratings
Authors: Constancias C. , Dalzotto B. , Michallon P. , Wallace J. , Saib M.
Published: January 2010

Silicon membranes of 100nm thick (and below) over several mm2 have been fabricated for high efficiency extreme ultraviolet (EUV) transmission grating. The perfect planarity (<1nm) and the high transparency (>80%) at 13.5nm wavelength have been measured. In comparison to SiNx membranes (40% transmission), the silicon membranes allow high resolution EUV interference lithography using the second order diffraction of the molybdenum grating. The fabrication of such phase gratings has been performed and the diffraction efficiency measurement is 27% for the silicon membrane and the Mo grating.
Respiratory motion management in particle therapy
Authors: Rietzel Eike , Bert Christoph
Published: January 2010

Clinical outcomes of charged particle therapy are very promising. Currently, several dedicated centers that use scanning beam technology are either close to clinical use or under construction. Since scanned beam treatments of targets that move with respiration most likely result in marked local over‐ and underdosage due to interplay of target motion and dynamic beam application, dedicated motion mitigation techniques have to be employed. To date, the motion mitigation techniques, rescanning, beam gating, and beam tracking, have been proposed and tested in experimental studies. Rescanning relies on repeated irradiations of the target with the number of particles reduced accordingly per scan to statistically average local misdosage. Specific developments to prohibit temporal correlation between beam scanning and target motion will be required to guarantee adequate averaging. For beam gating, residual target motion within gating windows has to be mitigated in order to avoid local misdosage. Possibly the most promising strategy is to increase the overlap of adjacent particle pencil beams laterally as well as longitudinally to effectively reduce the sensitivity against small residual target motion. The most conformal and potentially most precise motion mitigation technique is beam tracking. Individual particle pencil beams have to be adapted laterally as well as longitudinally according to the target motion. Within the next several years, it can be anticipated that rescanning as well as beam gating will be ready for clinical use. For rescanning, treatment planning margins that incorporate the full extent of target motion as well as motion induced density variations in the beam paths will result in reduced target conformity of the applied dose distributions. Due to the limited precision of motion monitoring devices, it seems likely that beam gating will be used initially to mitigate interplay effects only but not to considerably decrease treatment planning margins. Then, in the next step, beam gating, based on more accurate motion monitoring systems, provides the possibility to restore target conformity as well as steep dose gradients due to reduced treatment planning margins. Accurate motion monitoring systems will be required for beam tracking. Even though beam tracking has already been successfully tested experimentally, full clinical implementation requires direct feedback of the actual target position in quasireal time to the treatment control system and can be anticipated to be several more years ahead.
Evaluation of ‐axis resolution and image noise for nonconstant velocity spiral CT data reconstructed using a weighted 3D filtered backprojection (WFBP) reconstruction algorithm
Authors: Christner Jodie A. , Stierstorfer Karl , Primak Andrew N. , Eusemann Christian D. , Flohr Thomas G. , McCollough Cynthia H.
Published: January 2010

Purpose:

To determine the constancy of‐axis spatial resolution, CT number, image noise, and the potential for image artifacts for nonconstant velocity spiral CT data reconstructed using a flexibly weighted 3D filtered backprojection (WFBP) reconstruction algorithm.

Methods:

A WFBP reconstruction algorithm was used to reconstruct stationary (axial,), constant velocity spiral and nonconstant velocity spiral CT data acquired using a acquisition mode (38.4 mm total detector length, ‐flying focal spot technique), and a gantry rotation time of 0.30 s. Nonconstant velocity scans used the system's periodic spiral mode, where the table moved in and out of the gantry in a cyclical manner. For all scan types, the volume CTDI was 10 mGy. Measurements of CT number, image noise, and the slice sensitivity profile were made for all scan types as a function of the nominal slice width, table velocity, and position within the scan field of view. A thorax phantom was scanned using all modes and reconstructed transverse and coronal plane images were compared.

Results:

Negligible differences in slice thickness, CT number, noise, or artifacts were found between scan modes for data taken at two positions within the scan field of view. For nominal slices of 1.0–3.0 mm, FWHM values of the slice sensitivity profiles were essentially independent of the scan type. For periodic spiral scans, FWHM values measured at the center of the scan range were indistinguishable from those taken 5 mm from one end of the scan range. All CT numbers were within ±5 HU, and CT number and noise values were similar for all scan modes assessed. A slight increase in noise and artifact level was observed 5 mm from the start of the scan on the first pass of the periodic spiral. On subsequent passes, noise and artifact level in the transverse and coronal plane images were the same for all scan modes.

Conclusions:

Nonconstant velocity periodic spiral scans can achieve‐axis spatial resolution, CT number accuracy, image noise and artifact level equivalent to those for stationary (axial), and constant velocity spiral scans. Thus, periodic spiral scans are expected to allow assessment of four‐dimensional CT data for scan lengths greater than the detector width without sacrificing image quality.
2D model‐based reconstruction for magnetic particle imaging
Authors: Knopp Tobias , Biederer Sven , Sattel Timo F. , Rahmer Jürgen , Weizenecker Jürgen , Gleich Bernhard , Borgert Jörn , Buzug Thorsten M.
Published: January 2010

Purpose:

Magnetic particle imaging (MPI) is a new quantitative imaging technique capable of determining the spatial distribution of superparamagnetic nanoparticles at high temporal and spatial resolution. For reconstructing this spatial distribution, the particle dynamics and the scanner properties have to be known. To date, they are obtained in a tedious calibration procedure by measuring the magnetization response of a small delta sample shifted through the measuring field. Recently, first reconstruction results using a 1D model‐based system function were published, showing comparable image quality as obtained with a measured system function. In this work, first 2D model‐based reconstruction results of measured MPI data are presented.

Methods:

To simulate the system function, various parameters have to be modeled, namely, the magnetic field, the particle magnetization, the voltage induced in the receive coils, and the transfer function of the receive chain. To study the accuracy of the model‐based approach, 2D MPI data are measured and reconstructed with modeled and measured system functions.

Results:

It is found that the model‐based system function is sufficiently accurate to allow for reconstructing experimental data. The resulting image quality is close to that obtained with a measurement‐based reconstruction.

Conclusions:

The model‐based system function approach addresses a major drawback of the measurement‐based procedure, namely, the long acquisition time. In this work, the acquisition of the measurement‐based system function took, while the model‐based system function was obtained in only . For 3D data, where the acquisition of the measurement‐based system function takes more than , the need for an efficient system function generation is even more obvious.
Coverage optimized planning: Probabilistic treatment planning based on dose coverage histogram criteria
Authors: Gordon J. J. , Sayah N. , Weiss E. , Siebers J. V.
Published: January 2010

This work (i) proposes a probabilistic treatment planning framework, termed coverage optimized planning (COP), based on dose coverage histogram (DCH) criteria; (ii) describes a concrete proof‐of‐concept implementation of COP within the PINNACLE treatment planning system; and (iii) for a set of 28 prostate anatomies, compares COP plans generated with this implementation to traditional PTV‐based plans generated with planning criteria approximating those in the high dose arm of the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group 0126 protocol. Let denote the dose delivered to fractional volume of a structure. In conventional intensity modulated radiation therapy planning, has a unique value derived from the static (planned) dose distribution. In the presence of geometric uncertainties (e.g., setup errors) assumes a range of values. The DCH is the complementary cumulative distribution function of . DCHs are similar to dose volume histograms (DVHs). Whereas a DVH plots volume versus dose , a DCH plots coverage probability versus . For a given patient, is the probability (i.e., percentage of geometric uncertainties) for which the realized value of exceeds . PTV‐based treatment plans can be converted to COP plans by replacing DVH optimization criteria with corresponding DCH criteria. In this approach, PTVs and planning organ at risk volumes are discarded, and DCH criteria are instead applied directly to clinical target volumes (CTVs) or organs at risk (OARs). Plans are optimized using a similar strategy as for DVH criteria. The specific implementation is described. COP was found to produce better plans than standard PTV‐based plans, in the following sense. While target OAR dose tradeoff curves were equivalent to those for PTV‐based plans, COP plans were able to exploit slack in OAR doses, i.e., cases where OAR doses were below their optimization limits, to increase target coverage. Specifically, because COP plans were not constrained by a predefined PTV, they were able to provide wider dosimetric margins around the CTV, by pushing OAR doses up to, but not beyond, their optimization limits. COP plans demonstrated improved target coverage when averaged over all 28 prostate anatomies, indicating that the COP approach can provide benefits for many patients. However, the degree to which slack OAR doses can be exploited to increase target coverage will vary according to the individual patient anatomy. The proof‐of‐concept COP implementation investigated here utilized a probabilistic DCH criteria only for the CTV minimum dose criterion. All other optimization criteria were conventional DVH criteria. In a mature COP implementation, all optimization criteria will be DCH criteria, enabling direct planning control over probabilistic dose distributions. Further research is necessary to determine the benefits of COP planning, in terms of tumor control probability and/or normal tissue complication probabilities.
Simulation of the precision limits of plastic scintillation detectors using optimal component selection
Authors: Lacroix Frédéric , Beaulieu Luc , Archambault Louis , Beddar A. Sam
Published: January 2010

Purpose:

The purpose of this work was threefold: First, to determine which type of charge‐coupled device (CCD) would provide the best dosimetric precision for plastic scintillation detectors (PSDs); second, to design a high‐photon‐efficiency PSD system by optimizing its signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) using off‐the‐shelf technology; and third, to establish the spatial, temporal, and dose precision limits of such a PSD system. The authors have attempted to design a dosimetric tool suitable for radiotherapy treatment modalities employing small fields or fast temporal modulation of the radiation fields, and to explore the current precision limits of PSD systems.

Methods:

The authors used an SNR simulation model to design and calculate the dosimetric precision of a PSD employing a fiber taper to couple the optical fiber to the photodetector. The authors also used the SNR simulation model to evaluate the impact of the photodetector performance characteristics on the SNR and to establish the spatial, temporal, and dose precision limits.

Results:

The authors found that a high‐photon‐efficiency PSD can provide a precision of 1% in of integration time for a dose rate of 400 cGy/min when a single image is taken, detect a dose of 1 cGy with a detector volume of , and image over 15 000 detectors with a precision of 1% on a CCD imaging area.

Conclusions:

These characteristics establish that PSDs theoretically constitute a suitable dosimetric tool for radiotherapy treatment modalities employing small fields or fast temporal modulation of the radiation fields.
Replacement correction factors for plane‐parallel ion chambers in electron beams
Authors: Wang Lilie L. W. , Rogers David W. O.
Published: January 2010

Purpose:

Plane‐parallel chambers are recommended by dosimetry protocols for measurements in (especially low‐energy) electron beams. In dosimetry protocols, the replacement correction factor is assumed unity for “well‐guarded” plane‐parallel chambers in electron beams when the front face of the cavity is the effective point of measurement. There is experimental evidence that ion chambers which are not well‐guarded (e.g., Markus) have nonunity values. Monte Carlo simulations are employed in this study to investigate the replacement correction factors for plane‐parallel chambers in electron beams.

Methods:

Using previously established Monte Carlo calculation methods, the values of are calculated with high statistical precision for the cavities of a variety of plane‐parallel chambers in a water phantom irradiated by various electron beams. The dependences of the values of on the beam quality, phantom depth, as well as the guard ring width are studied.

Results:

In the dose fall‐off region for low‐energy beams, the values are very sensitive to depth. It is found that this is mainly due to the gradient effect, which originates from the fact that the effective point of measurement for many plane‐parallel chambers should not be at the front face of the cavity but rather shifted toward the center of the cavity by a fraction of a millimeter. Using the front face of the cavity as the effective point of measurement, the calculated values of at are not unity for some well‐guarded plane‐parallel chambers. The calculated values for the Roos chamber are close to 1 for all electron beams. The calculation results for the Markus chamber are in good agreement with the measured values.

Conclusions:

The appropriate selection of the effective point of measurement for plane‐parallel chambers in electron beams is an important issue. If the effective point of measurement is correctly accounted for, the values would be almost independent of depth. Both the guard ring width and the ratio of the collecting volume diameter to the cavity thickness can influence the values of . For a diameter to thickness ratio of 5 (e.g., NACP02 chamber), the guard width has to be 6 mm for the chamber to be considered as well‐guarded, i.e., have a value of 1.00.