bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exercise enhances hippocampal‐dependent learning in the rat: Evidence for a BDNF‐related mechanism
Authors: Griffin Éadaoin W. , Bechara Ranya G. , Birch Amy M. , Kelly Áine M.
Published: September 2009

Short periods of forced exercise have been reported to selectively induce enhancements in hippocampal‐dependent cognitive function, possibly via brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)‐mediated mechanisms. In this study, we report that 1 week of treadmill running significantly enhanced both object displacement (spatial) and object substitution (nonspatial) learning. These behavioral changes were accompanied by increased expression of BDNF protein in the dentate gyrus, hippocampus, and perirhinal cortex. The effects of exercise on object substitution were mimicked by intracerebroventricular injection of BDNF protein. These data are consistent with the hypothesis that exercise has the potential to enhance cognitive function in young healthy rats, possibly via a mechanism involving increased BDNF expression in specific brain regions. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Identification of the murine AAVrh32.33 capsid‐specific CD8+ T cell epitopes
Authors: Mays Lauren E. , Wilson James M.
Published: September 2009

Background

Adeno‐associated virus (AAV) is an ideal gene therapy vector and is non‐immunogenic in many small animal models. The stable gene expression commonly seen in murine models does not necessarily translate to nonhuman primates and higher‐order species, highlighting the need for a better understanding of immune activation to these vectors. One capsid variant, AAVrh32.33, demonstrates a unique phenotype in murine muscle, reminiscent of what is often seen in higher‐order species. AAVrh32.33 generates a strong CD8+ T‐cell response to both capsid and encoded transgene antigens in a manner independent of transgene product or major histocompatability complex haplotype, making it an ideal candidate for studying immune activation to AAV in the mouse.

Methods

To map the H‐2b and H‐2d dominant epitopes of the AAVrh32.33 capsid, C57BL/6 or Balb/C mice received an intramuscular injection of 1 × 1011 genome copies of AAV2/rh32.33.CB.nLacZ. Three weeks later, splenocytes were harvested and stimulated in vitro with pooled or individual peptides from the AAVrh32.33 capsid peptide library and analysed by an interferon (IFN)‐γ enzyme‐linked immunosorbent spot assay or intracellular cytokine staining.

Results

The immunodominant epitopes within the AAVrh32.33 capsid responsible for driving CD8+ T‐cell responses to the capsid protein in C57BL/6 (SSYELPYVM) and Balb/C (KIPASGGNAL) mice were defined.

Conclusions

Identification of dominant capsid epitopes will make it possible to monitor cellular responses to the AAV capsid in vivo, facilitating mechanistic studies critical to defining how cellular immunity to the AAV capsid arises and, ultimately, how the generation of capsid‐specific T cells can be avoided to ensure safety in a gene therapy setting. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Detection of adulterations in processed coffee with cereals and coffee husks using capillary zone electrophoresis
Authors: Nogueira Thiago , do Lago Claudimir Lucio
Published: September 2009

The proposed method for the identification of adulteration was based on the controlled acid hydrolysis of xylan and starch present in some vegetable adulterants, followed by the analysis of the resulting xylose and glucose, which are the monosaccharides that compose, respectively, the two polysaccharides. The acid hydrolysis with HCl increases the ionic strength of the sample, which impairs the electrophoretic separation. Thus, a neutralization step based on anion exchange resin was necessary. The best separations were obtained in NaOH 80 mmol/L, CTAB 0.5 mmol/L, and methanol 30% v/v. Because of the high value of pH, monosaccharides are separated as anionic species in such running electrolyte. The LOQ for both monosaccharides was 0.2 g for 100 g of dry matter, which conforms to the tolerable limits.
Scale‐dependent hierarchy of structural elements in the microstructure of thermomechanical treated ferritic steels with residual austenite
Authors: Teplyakova L. , Gershteyn G. , Popova N. , Kozlov E. , Ignatenko L. , Springer R. , Schaper M. , Bach Fr.‐W.
Published: September 2009

Experimental results of the structural investigations of dislocations and carbides are presented here for four steels with ferritic‐carbide structures which were subjected to different final thermal processing. The investigation was carried out using different methods which involved optical microscopy, REM, TEM and x‐ray structural analysis. The complex procedures implemented permitted both investigations at intervals from the macro to the micro scale as well as detection of the total spectrum of the scale and structure levels which form during the steel's thermal treatment. As a consequence of these analyses, representative structural volume elements (RSVE) were detected which includes all relevant structural parameters, i.e. dislocation structures, precipitates and phases.
Microwave notch filters using embedded stubs
Authors: Hsue Ching‐Wen , Mittra Raj , Tsai Yi‐Hsien , Hsu Chih‐Chen
Published: September 2009

Embedded stubs are employed to implement microwave notch filters with narrow bandwidth and sharp rejection rate. The embedded stub exhibits higher equivalent characteristic impedance and takes less area than the conventional shunt stub. An equal‐length, two‐section stub offers multiple stop‐bands which are fundamentally different from those obtained in conventional quarter‐wavelength stub. Experimental results are presented to show the validity of the design method. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 51: 2839–2842, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.24760
Design of a periodically nonuniform coupled microstrip lines (PNCML) filter using the novel method of lines
Authors: Abas Amr A. , Saker Hossam A. , Abdallah Esmat A. , El‐Henawy Hadya M.
Published: September 2009

A new eigenmode algorithm based on the method of lines and the generalized transmission line equations is applied on full‐wave analysis of (3‐D) MMIC components. The analytical calculation in the direction of propagation enables the analysis of structures of very short or long interconnections between single discontinuities. The analysis is developed by nonequidistant discretization to reduce the discretization window. In this article, a periodically nonuniform coupled microstrip lines filter is designed to offer a wide band performance with a small size structure and with harmonic suppression. The analysis of this filter is applied using the new technique of the method of lines. In this analysis, the scattering parameters of the designed filter are computed. The designed filter is fabricated and tested, where good agreement is found between the numerical and the experimental results. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 51: 2865–2870, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.24763
Psychometric testing of four transtheoretical model questionnaires for the behavior, completing health care proxies
Authors: Jezewski Mary Ann , Finnell Deborah S. , Wu Yow‐Wu Bill , Meeker Mary Ann , Sessanna Loralee , Lee Jongwon
Published: September 2009

The purpose of the study was to develop four questionnaires based on the transtheoretical model (TTM) to assess the behavior, completing a healthcare proxy (HCP). The aims were to (a) operationalize the four TTM constructs for completing a HCP and (b) evaluate the psychometric properties of the questionnaires. The questionnaires were constructed and content validity established using an expert panel. Internal consistency values for each questionnaire and subscales within each questionnaire were >.79. Confirmatory factor analysis provided evidence that decisional balance and the processes of change questionnaires each contained two factors. Our data support validity and reliability of the TTM questionnaires related to HCP completion. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 32:606–620, 2009
Correlates of physical activity in low income college students
Authors: Maglione Joyce L. , Hayman Laura L.
Published: September 2009

The importance of physical activity as a health promoting behavior has been well documented. We examined the relationship of social support, self‐efficacy, and commitment to a plan of physical activity on physical activity behaviors in a sample of low income college students. Those with higher levels of social support, self‐efficacy, and commitment to a plan of physical activity reported more physical activity behaviors. Commitment to a plan of physical activity mediated the relationships of social support and physical activity behavior, and of self‐efficacy and physical activity behavior. The results support the importance of exploring the psychosocial correlates of physical activity in explaining the decision process that underlies physical activity behavior. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 32:634–646, 2009
The association of depression and anxiety with health‐related quality of life in cancer patients with depression and/or pain
Authors: Brown Linda F. , Kroenke Kurt , Theobald Dale E. , Wu Jingwei , Tu Wanzhu
Published: September 2009

Objectives: Depression is known to be a major problem in cancer patients, and evidence is emerging about the importance of anxiety. Because the disorders are highly comorbid, we examined the relationship of anxiety and depression with health‐related quality of life (HRQL) in cancer patients.

Methods: Sample included 405 adult oncology patients participating in a randomized controlled trial of telecare management for pain and depression. This secondary cross‐sectional analysis of baseline data examined independent and additive effects of anxiety and depression on HRQL, disability, and somatic symptom severity.

Results: In 397 patients who screened positive for either pain or depression or both, 135 had comorbid anxiety and depression, 174 had depression but not anxiety, and 88 had neither. Differences existed across all nonphysical HRQL domains and were more pronounced incrementally across the three groups in the expected direction. In GLM modeling, anxiety and depression were each associated with all the domains when modeled separately (p<0.0001). When modeled together, anxiety and depression had independent and additive effects on the mental health domains of HRQL and on somatic symptom burden. In other domains (vitality, perceived disability, overall quality of life, and general health perceptions), only depression had an effect.

Conclusion: Anxiety and depression have strong and independent associations with mental health domains and somatic symptom burden in cancer patients. However, depression has a more pervasive association with multiple other domains of HRQL. Paying attention to both anxiety and depression may be particularly important when addressing mental health needs and somatic symptom distress. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Protocols and techniques for a scalable atom–photon quantum network
Authors: Luo L. , Hayes D. , Manning T.A. , Matsukevich D.N. , Maunz P. , Olmschenk S. , Sterk J.D. , Monroe C.
Published: September 2009

Quantum networks based on atomic qubits and scattered photons provide a promising way to build a large‐scale quantum information processor. We review quantum protocols for generating entanglement and operating gates between two distant atomic qubits, which can be used for constructing scalable atom–photon quantum networks. We emphasize the crucial role of collecting light from atomic qubits for large‐scale networking and describe two techniques to enhance light collection using reflective optics or optical cavities. A brief survey of some applications for scalable and efficient atom–photon networks is also provided.
Tracking for nonlinear plants with multiple unknown time‐varying state delays using sliding mode with adaptation
Authors: Mirkin Boris , Gutman Per‐Olof , Shtessel Yuri
Published: September 2009

In this paper, we develop a sliding mode model reference adaptive control (MRAC) scheme for a class of nonlinear dynamic systems with multiple time‐varying state delays, which is robust with respect to unknown plant delays, to a nonlinear perturbation, and to an external disturbance with unknown bounds. An appropriate Lyapunov–Krasovskii‐type functional is introduced to design the adaptation algorithms, and to prove stability. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Automatic appearance‐based loop detection from three‐dimensional laser data using the normal distributions transform
Authors: Magnusson Martin , Andreasson Henrik , Nüchter Andreas , Lilienthal Achim J.
Published: September 2009

We propose a new approach to appearance‐based loop detection for mobile robots, using three‐dimensional (3D) laser scans. Loop detection is an important problem in the simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) domain, and, because it can be seen as the problem of recognizing previously visited places, it is an example of the data association problem. Without a flat‐floor assumption, two‐dimensional laser‐based approaches are bound to fail in many cases. Two of the problems with 3D approaches that we address in this paper are how to handle the greatly increased amount of data and how to efficiently obtain invariance to 3D rotations. We present a compact representation of 3D point clouds that is still discriminative enough to detect loop closures without false positives (i.e., detecting loop closure where there is none). A low false‐positive rate is very important because wrong data association could have disastrous consequences in a SLAM algorithm. Our approach uses only the appearance of 3D point clouds to detect loops and requires no pose information. We exploit the normal distributions transform surface representation to create feature histograms based on surface orientation and smoothness. The surface shape histograms compress the input data by two to three orders of magnitude. Because of the high compression rate, the histograms can be matched efficiently to compare the appearance of two scans. Rotation invariance is achieved by aligning scans with respect to dominant surface orientations. We also propose to use expectation maximization to fit a gamma mixture model to the output similarity measures in order to automatically determine the threshold that separates scans at loop closures from nonoverlapping ones. We discuss the problem of determining ground truth in the context of loop detection and the difficulties in comparing the results of the few available methods based on range information. Furthermore, we present quantitative performance evaluations using three real‐world data sets, one of which is highly self‐similar, showing that the proposed method achieves high recall rates (percentage of correctly identified loop closures) at low false‐positive rates in environments with different characteristics. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Ultrasound‐Guided Vacuum‐Assisted Breast Biopsy System for Diagnosis and Minimally Invasive Excision of Intraductal Papilloma Without Nipple Discharge
Authors: Wei Hu , Jiayi Fan , Qinping Zhang , Junyi Shi , Yuan Shen , Li Li , Dongwei Su , Liying Qing
Published: September 2009

Background

As intraductal papilloma (IP) includes both benign and malignant lesions, it is difficult to decide whether the patient should merely be followed up. The purpose of this study is to validate the ultrasound (US)‐guided vacuum‐assisted breast biopsy system (Mammotome) for diagnosis and minimally invasive excision of IP.

Methods

Six women with breast cystic‐solid lesions without nipple discharge underwent B‐US‐guided 8‐gauge Mammotome biopsy. Interval US surveillance was performed at a median time of 7 months (range 5–12 months).

Results

All lesions were removed accurately and thoroughly with satisfactory cosmetic outcomes. All of them were histologically diagnosed as IP. No clinically significant hematoma developed.

Conclusions

The US‐guided 8‐gauge Mammotome biopsy provides an accurate pathologic diagnosis and successful complete excision of cystic‐solid breast lesions. This technique appears to be an alternative to surgical biopsy in IP patients without nipple discharge.
Secondary disorders of glycosylation in inborn errors of fructose metabolism
Authors: Quintana E. , Sturiale L. , Montero R. , Andrade F. , Fernandez C. , Couce M. L. , Barone R. , Aldamiz‐Echevarria L. , Ribes A. , Artuch R. , Briones P.
Published: September 2009

Adamowicz and colleagues raised the alert in 2007 about patients with atypical hereditary fructose intolerance (HFI) primarily misdiagnosed as CDG Ix. We describe a girl with neonatal hypertonia, facial trismus, absent swallowing and coughing reflexes, gastro‐oesophageal reflux and sporadically elevated Krebs cycle metabolites and lactate. At 14 months microcephaly and hepatomegaly were noted, with hypertransaminasaemia but normal blood coagulation, glucose, phosphate, and absent urinary reducing substances. Neurological impairment persisted. Because of hepatic and neurological abnormalities with developmental delay, Tf IEF was performed and showed a severe type 1 pattern, resulting in a wrong diagnosis of CDG. Subsequently, an aversion to fruits suggested HFI, confirmed by the finding of ALDOB mutations (p.A150P/p.N335K). The girl improved with fructose‐free diet, but liver cirrhosis led to hepatic transplantation. She is now 7 years old with good evolution; facial trismus and hypertonia reversed, but microcephaly persists. Transferrin MALDI‐TOF MS characterization revealed underoccupation of glycosylation sites and glycan abnormalities, which reversed with dietary treatment. High maternal fructose concentrations might have caused neonatal abnormalities. Although in our patient's mother there is no fructose accumulation at present, it is possible that increased ingestion of fruits and vegetables during pregnancy, together with her heterozygosity, caused an accumulation of fructose that finally affected the fetus. We also describe slightly abnormal transferrin isoelectric focusing and MALDI‐TOF MS patterns of intact transferrin and N‐glycans in a fructose‐1,6‐bisphosphatase (FBP1)‐deficient patient. While HFI is a well‐known cause of secondary CDG, we found no reports of abnormal transferrin isoelectric focusing patterns in FBP1 deficiency and we introduce this condition as a possible secondary cause for altered transferrin isoelectric focusing.
Effectiveness of an attachment‐focused manualized intervention for parents of teens at risk for aggressive behaviour: The Connect Program
Authors: Moretti Marlene M. , Obsuth Ingrid
Published: September 2009

Aggressive, violent and antisocial behaviour in children and adolescents is a growing concern across the globe. Targeting parent‐teen relationships is critical in reducing problem behaviour. ‘Connect’ is a manualized ten‐week program for parents or alternative caregivers of at‐risk teens that focuses on the building blocks of secure attachment: parental sensitivity, cooperation, reflective capacity, and effective dyadic affect regulation. Through didactic and experiential activities, parents develop the competence necessary to identify, understand and respond to the needs of their teen in a manner that provides structure and safety while safeguarding the quality of the parent‐teen relationship. In Study 1, twenty parents reported significant increases in perceived parenting satisfaction and efficacy and reductions in adolescents' aggression, antisocial behaviour and other mental health problems following completion of Connect as compared to a waitlist control period. These effects were sustained and additional small effects were noted in decreases in conduct problems, depression and anxiety at a 12‐month follow‐up. The program was then transported to 17 communities serving 309 parents through standardized training and supervision of group leaders. Study 2 summarizes significant pre‐ to post‐treatment reductions in teen externalizing and internalizing problems; enhanced social functioning; and improvements in affect regulation. Parents also reported significant increases in parenting satisfaction and perceived efficacy and reductions in caregiver burden.
Crystal structure of the NEMO ubiquitin‐binding domain in complex with Lys 63‐linked di‐ubiquitin
Authors: Yoshikawa Azusa , Sato Yusuke , Yamashita Masami , Mimura Hisatoshi , Yamagata Atsushi , Fukai Shuya
Published: September 2009

MINT‐7262667: Ubiquitin (uniprotkb:P62991) and NEMO (uniprotkb:O88522) bind (MI:0407) by X‐ray crystallography (MI:0114)
Ethylene and cold participate in the regulation of LeCBF1 gene expression in postharvest tomato fruits
Authors: Zhao Danying , Shen Lin , Fan Bei , Yu Mengmeng , Zheng Yang , Lv Shengnan , Sheng Jiping
Published: September 2009

C‐Repeat/dehydration‐responsive element binding factor (CBF) is a transcription factor regulating cold response in plants, of which little is known in fruits. We showed a double‐peak expression pattern of Lycopersicon esculentum putative transcriptional activator CBF1 (LeCBF1) in mature green fruit. The peaks appeared at 2 and 16 h after subjection to cold storage (2 °C). The second peak was coincident with, and thus caused by a peak in endogenous ethylene production. We showed that LeCBF1 expression was regulated by exogenous ethylene and 1‐methylcyclopropene, and was not expressed without cold induction. LeCBF1 expression was different in the five maturation stages of fruits, but expression peaked at 2 h at all stages.
Changes in the expression of insulin‐like growth factor 1 variants in the postnatal brain development and in neonatal hypoxia–ischaemia
Authors: Beręsewicz Małgorzata , Majewska Monika , Makarewicz Dorota , Vayro Steven , Zabłocka Barbara , Górecki Dariusz C.
Published: September 2009

Insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1) is a multifunctional peptide of which numerous isoforms exist. The predominant form, IGF‐1Ea is involved in physiological processes while IGF‐1Ec (mechano‐growth factor, MGF) is expressed in response to a different set of stimuli. We have identified specific changes in the expression patterns of these IGF‐1 variants in brain development in normal rats and following neonatal hypoxia–ischaemia (HI). Both IGF‐1Ea and IGF‐1Ec are expressed during normal postnatal brain development, albeit with highly specific temporal distributions. In contrast, HI produced increased and prolonged expression of the IGF‐1Ec isoform only. Importantly, hypoxia alone stimulated the expression of IGF‐1Ec as well. Thus, IGF‐1Ec may play a role in HI pathology. Neonatal hypoxia–ischaemia occurs in approximately 1:4000–1:10,000 newborns and causes neurological deficits in ∼75% of those affected. Unfortunately, no specific treatment is available. IGF‐1 is known to have neuroprotective activity and its IGF‐1Ec variant appears to be an endogenous protective factor in hypoxia–ischaemia. Therefore, IGF‐1Ec could potentially be developed into a therapeutic modality for the attenuation or prevention of neuronal damage in this and related disorders.
Benchmarking biology research organizations using a new, dedicated tool
Authors: van Harten Willem H. , van Bokhorst Leonard , van Luenen Henri G.A.M.
Published: September 2009

International competition forces fundamental research organizations to assess their relative performance. We present a benchmark tool for scientific research organizations where, contrary to existing models, the group leader is placed in a central position within the organization. We used it in a pilot benchmark study involving six research institutions. Our study shows that data collection and data comparison based on this new tool can be achieved. It proved possible to compare relative performance and organizational characteristics and to generate suggestions for improvement for most participants. However, strict definitions of the parameters used for the benchmark and a thorough insight into the organization of each of the benchmark partners is required to produce comparable data and draw firm conclusions.
Anatomical variations of the spinal accessory nerve and its relevance to level IIb lymph nodes
Authors: Lee Sang Hyuk , Lee Jong Kyu , Jin Sung Min , Kim Jin Hwan , Park Il Seok , Chu Hyung Ro , Ahn Hwoe Young , Rho Young Soo
Published: September 2009

Objective

This study was conducted to identify anatomical variations of the spinal accessory nerve (SAN) in the upper neck, the landmark of the anterior and inferior border of level IIb, and to evaluate the nerve's effect on the border and the number of lymph nodes (LNs) in level IIb.

Study Design and Setting

Case series with planned data collection.

Subjects and Methods

A total of 181 neck dissections (NDs) were prospectively enrolled in this study. The relation between the SAN and adjacent structures (internal jugular vein [IJV], sternocleidomastoid muscle [SCM], cervical plexus) and the number of LNs in level IIb was investigated.

Results

The SAN crossed the IJV ventrally in 72 cases (39.8%) and dorsally in 104 cases (57.4%), and passed through the IJV in five cases (2.8%). The SAN ran along the inner surface of the SCM and sent branches to the SCM without penetration of the muscle in 83 cases (45.9%), whereas in 98 cases (54.1%) the nerve sent branches to the SCM by penetration. Cervical plexus contribution to the SAN was seen from C2 in 96 cases (53.1%), C2 and C3 in 69 cases (38.1%), and C3 in 16 cases (8.8%). The mean number of LNs of level IIa and level IIb was 6.5 and 8.2 in cases in which the SAN crossed the IJV ventrally, and 6.8 and 5.4 in dorsally crossing cases. LNs included in the neck level IIb in ventrally crossing SAN cases were significantly larger than the dorsally crossing cases (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Our results may help to minimize the incidence of injuring the SAN in the upper neck during ND. Neck level IIb would contain more LNs if the course of the nerve leans toward the ventral side.
Deliberating across differences: Planning futures in cross-cultural spaces
Authors: Zapata Marisa A
Published: September 2009

Power imbalances and cultural differences between community members can raise challenges for deliberative democrats who want to design equal and open dialogic processes. This article examines how one organization accounted for power and responded to cultural difference in its design of a deliberative planning process. My research indicates that a deliberative planning process can address power imbalances and cultural differences through several techniques. The hand-selection and strategic recruitment of participants ensures broad community representation within the process. The incorporation of storytelling, an emphasis on emphatic listening and the creation of a safe deliberative space, helps mitigate inequality and foster reciprocity. Power imbalances between participants can also be downplayed by focusing deliberations on broader planning and policy frameworks, as opposed to highly specified policy decisions. These techniques may best be implemented by focusing on dialogue instead of deliberation. Finally, this article reveals the importance of considering cultural difference, beyond its relation to power imbalance, to develop cross-cultural deliberative processes.
Climate change, patch choice, and intensification at Pont d'Ambon (Dordogne, France) during the Younger Dryas
Authors: Jones Emily Lena
Published: September 2009

This paper considers the impact of the Younger Dryas on the prehistoric inhabitants of Pont d'Ambon, a site in the Dordogne region of southwestern France, through an examination of the zooarchaeological remains from this site. An investigation of patch choice indicates that patch choice evenness declines during the Younger Dryas due to increasing local dominance of the grassland patch. Analyses of demographic composition, cutmark frequency, and marrow processing in the wild European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) assemblage suggest intensified rabbit use during this period. This study thus supports the hypothesis that changing climate had significant impacts on the prehistoric inhabitants of Pont d'Ambon. However, the traditional climate hypothesis—that changing climate negatively impacted the availability of larger fauna, forcing a switch to smaller, lower-ranked prey items—is not supported here. The inhabitants of Pont d'Ambon seem to have adapted to changing climate by efficiently exploiting the new species available to them, and possibly, during the Younger Dryas, by intensifying their use of one of these new species, the European rabbit.
The convergence of Euler products over p-adic number fields
Authors: Delbourgo Daniel
Published: September 2009

We define a topological space over the p-adic numbers, in which Euler products and Dirichlet series converge. We then show how the classical Riemann zeta function has a (p-adic) Euler product structure at the negative integers. Finally, as a corollary of these results, we derive a new formula for the non-Archimedean Euler–Mascheroni constant.
Blaschke products in Lipschitz spaces
Authors: Jevtić Miroljub
Published: September 2009

We study the membership of Blaschke products in Lipschitz spaces, especially for interpolating Blaschke products and for those whose zeros lie in a Stolz angle. We prove several theorems that complement or extend the earlier works of Ahern and the author.
Three non-trivial solutions for not necessarily coercive p-Laplacian equations
Authors: Hu Shouchuan , Papageorgiou Nikolas S.
Published: September 2009

We consider the existence of three non-trivial smooth solutions for nonlinear elliptic problems driven by the p-Laplacian. Using variational arguments, coupled with the method of upper and lower solutions, critical groups and suitable truncation techniques, we produce three non-trivial smooth solutions, two of which have constant sign. The hypotheses incorporate both coercive and non-coercive problems in our framework of analysis.
Développement d’un programme d’éducation au loisir adapté comme moyen de soutien à l’implication d’aidants d’un proche atteint de démence,
Authors: Carbonneau Hélène , Caron Chantal D. , Desrosiers Johanne
Published: September 2009

Leisure represents a positive way to keep relationships satisfactory between caregivers and a person with dementia. Adapted leisure education is a promising approach to assist the family to discover new ways to share good times with their relatives. This study aimed to develop an adapted leisure education program. It included an evaluation of the caregivers’ needs, the program content development, and a pilot study to experiment with the content of the program. Three focus groups of dementia caregivers (n = 19) were conducted to investigate caregivers needs. Based on content analysis of these focus groups and a literature review, the content of the program was developed. The pilot study (n = 4) included a quasi-experimental trial and an implementation evaluation. This study led to the development of an adapted leisure education program that puts caregiver support in a new perspective, focusing on positive aspects rather than the burden of caregiving.
Epidemiological Trends in Attempted Suicide in Adolescents and Young Adults Between 1996 and 2004
Authors: De Munck Stephanie , Portzky Gwendolyn , Van Heeringen Kees
Published: September 2009

Background: Notwithstanding the epidemiological studies indicating an increased risk of attempted suicide among adolescents and young adults, there is a scarcity of international studies that examine long-term epidemiological trends in rates and characteristics of this vulnerable group. Aims: This article describes the results of a 9-year monitoring study of suicide attempts in adolescents and young adults referred to the Accident and Emergency Department of the Gent University Hospital (Belgium). Methods: Between January 1996 and December 2004, trends, sociodemographic, and methodrelated characteristics of suicide attempts were assessed by a psychiatrist on data sheets. Results: Attempted suicide rates declined from 1996 to 2001 and then rose until 2004, but did not exceed previous rates. During the 9 years of monitoring, there was a preponderance of female suicide attempters, except for 1997. Rates of attempts and of fatal suicide were negatively correlated. Significantly more males than females deliberately injured themselves. Younger attempters, especially females, significantly more often poisoned themselves with analgesics. In nearly one in five attempts, alcohol was used in combination with other methods, and alcohol intake was more commonly observed in older suicide attempters. Nearly half of the adolescents were identified as repeaters. Conclusions: The results of this study warrant further monitoring of trends and characteristics of young suicide attempters.
Suicide Prevention with Adolescents
Authors: Klimes-Dougan Bonnie , Yuan Chih- , Lee Steven , Houri Alaa K.
Published: September 2009

Background/Aims: Suicide is one of the most serious public health challenges; yet determining optimal methods for preventing suicide in adolescents continues to be an elusive goal. The aim of this study was to investigate possible benefits and untoward effects of suicide-prevention public service announcements (PSAs) for adolescents. Methods: Adolescent participants (N = 426; 56% female) were randomly assigned to one of three conditions: (a) a billboard simulation, (b) a 30-s TV ad simulation, and (c) a no-information condition. Results: The results of this study suggest some benefits for the information conveyed by the TV ad (e.g., more knowledgeable about depression). Few benefits were noted for adolescents who were exposed to billboard simulation, and the results raised substantial concerns about possible untoward effects, particularly in adolescents who were exhibiting depressive or suicidal symptoms. Billboard viewers were less likely to favor help-seeking attitudes, perceived PSAs as being less useful, and endorsed more maladaptive coping. Conclusions: More research is urgently needed so that well-intended efforts to prevent suicide can more optimally serve the desired goals.
Can Sports Events Affect Suicidal Behavior?
Authors: Andriessen Karl , Krysinska Karolina
Published: September 2009

Background: Engagement in sports and physical activity, either actively as an athlete or in a passive way as a spectator, impacts interpersonal behavior and physical and mental health. Aims: The study reviews literature on the relationship between sports spectatorship and suicidal behavior to ascertain whether sports spectatorship has an impact on suicidal behavior, either increasing the risk or being a protective factor. Methods: The literature was searched via PubMed/MEDLINE and PsycINFO. Nine studies published between 1986 and 2006 were identified. Results: The reviewed studies focused on the impact of sports events on the societal level, and analyzed data regarding national or local suicide rates. Their results indicate that sports events can have an impact on suicide mortality and morbidity, but this relationship seems to be mediated by age, gender, marital status, and alcohol consumption, as well as the process and outcome of the game (e.g., victory vs. defeat of the favored team). Conclusions: There is some evidence that sports events can reduce the rates of suicide on the societal level; however, there is a lack of studies exploring how sports spectatorship might influence levels of suicide risk in individuals and how mediating variables might operate on the individual level.
Measuring Hopelessness and Life Orientation in Pakistani Adolescents
Authors: Ayub Nailah
Published: September 2009

Background: To gain information on the attitudes and life orientations of Pakistani adolescents, the present study aimed at measuring hopelessness and hopefulness in Pakistani adolescents. Methods: The Beck Hopelessness Scale (BHS; Beck, Weissman, Lester, & Trexler, 1974 ) and the Life Orientation Test (LOT; Scheier & Carver, 1985 ; Scheier, Carver, & Bridges, 1994 ) were translated into Urdu and validated for use in Pakistan. Back translation with a committee approach was used to translate the scales. The translated versions were administered to 723 adolescents and young adults in Pakistan. Results: For the Urdu-BHS, all item-total correlation coefficients were significant and yielded a single component. The principal component analysis on the Urdu-LOT yielded two components representing positively worded Optimism items and negatively worded Pessimism items. The BHS, as well as the two subscales of the LOT, were found to be predictive of suicide ideation. Gender comparisons showed that the two genders differed significantly on Hopelessness and the Optimism component of the Urdu-LOT. Conclusions: The Urdu version of the BHS and the LOT are established for use with young Pakistanis, after translations, and reliability and validity analyses. The need for further empirical research is emphasized for understanding the concepts and antecedents of hopelessness, optimism, and pessimism in adolescents, generally and in Pakistani adolescents, specifically.
Modulated reflectance study of InAs quantum dot stacks embedded in GaAs/AlAs superlattice
Authors: Nedzinskas R. , Čechavičius B. , Kavaliauskas J. , Karpus V. , Seliuta D. , Tamošiūnas V. , Valušis G. , Fasching G. , Unterrainer K. , Strasser G.
Published: September 2009

Optical transitions in vertically stacked InAs quantum dot (QD) superlattice (SL) with and without AlAs barriers were examined by photo- and electroreflectance techniques. The interband transitions corresponding to the QD, wetting layer (WL), and InAs/GaAs/AlAs SL have been identified. Experimental data and numerical calculations show that blueshifts and enhancement in the intensity of WL-related optical transitions in an InAs/GaAs/AlAs SL originate mainly due to off-center position of the QD layers in the quantum wells. The appearance of multiple WL-related features in the modulated reflectance spectra was revealed and discussed.
Reduction of surface acoustic wave resonator normal acceleration sensitivity using piezoelectric actuators
Authors: Shan X. Y. , Hu Y. T. , Yang J. S.
Published: September 2009

We attach a piezoelectric actuator to a surface acoustic wave resonator under normal acceleration to reduce its acceleration sensitivity. It is shown theoretically that under a given acceleration, the acceleration induced frequency shift in the resonator can be reduced or even completely eliminated when a proper electric field is applied to the piezoelectric actuator.
Current-driven transitions in ferromagnetic/insulator/superconductor narrow stripes
Authors: Hacohen-Gourgy S. , Almog B. , Leibovitch G. , Mints R. G. , Deutscher G.
Published: September 2009

We have studied superconducting to normal state current-driven transitions in ferromagnetic Co/Co oxide/superconducting In stripes of widths ranging from 3 to 20 μm. The narrower stripes can be set up in a high or low critical current state by driving the magnetic domain structure of the thin Co film either in an almost uniform or nonuniform state of magnetization. In the latter the critical current transition is preceded by the development of normal domains, whose dynamics are determined by the Co magnetization pattern.
A Method to Obtain a Maxwell–Boltzmann Neutron Spectrum at kT = 30 keV for Nuclear Astrophysics Studies
Authors: Praena J. , Mastinu P. F. , Hernández G. Martín
Published: September 2009

A method to shape the neutron energy spectrum at low-energy accelerators is proposed by modification of the initial proton energy distribution. A first application to the superconductive RFQ of the SPES project at Laboratori Nazionali di Legnaro is investigated for the production of a Maxwell–Boltzmann neutron spectrum at kT = 30 keV via the 7Li(p, n)7Be reaction. Concept, solutions and calculations for a setup consisting of a proton energy shaper and a lithium target are presented. It is found that a power dentisity of 3 kW cm−2 could be sustained by the lithium target and a forward-directed neutron flux higher than 1010 s−1 at the sample position could be obtained. In the framework of the SPES project the construction of a LEgnaro NeutrOn Source (LENOS) for Astrophysics and for validation of integral nuclear data is proposed, suited for activation studies on stable and unstable isotopes.
Extra-Mixing in Luminous Cool Red Giants: Hints from Evolved Stars With and Without Li
Authors: Guandalini R. , Palmerini S. , Busso M. , Uttenthaler S.
Published: September 2009

We present an analysis of Li abundances in low mass stars (LMS) during the Red Giant Branch (RGB) and Asymptotic Giant Branch (AGB) stages, based on a new determination of their luminosities and evolutionary status. By applying recently suggested models for extra-mixing, induced by magnetic buoyancy, we show that both Li-rich and Li-poor stars can be accounted for. The simplest scenario implies the development of fast instabilities on the RGB, where Li is produced. When the fields increase in strength, buoyancy slows down and Li is destroyed. 3He is consumed, at variable rates. The process continues on the AGB, where however moderate mass circulation rates have little effect on Li due to the short time available. O-rich and C-rich stars show different histories of Li production/destruction, possibly indicative of different masses. More complex transport schemes are allowed by magnetic buoyancy, with larger effects on Li, but most normal LMS seem to show only the range of Li variation discussed here.
Phylogenetic structure in tropical hummingbird communities
Authors: Graham Catherine H. , Parra Juan L. , Rahbek Carsten , McGuire Jimmy A.
Published: September 2009

How biotic interactions, current and historical environment, and biogeographic barriers determine community structure is a fundamental question in ecology and evolution, especially in diverse tropical regions. To evaluate patterns of local and regional diversity, we quantified the phylogenetic composition of 189 hummingbird communities in Ecuador. We assessed how species and phylogenetic composition changed along environmental gradients and across biogeographic barriers. We show that humid, low-elevation communities are phylogenetically overdispersed (coexistence of distant relatives), a pattern that is consistent with the idea that competition influences the local composition of hummingbirds. At higher elevations communities are phylogenetically clustered (coexistence of close relatives), consistent with the expectation of environmental filtering, which may result from the challenge of sustaining an expensive means of locomotion at high elevations. We found that communities in the lowlands on opposite sides of the Andes tend to be phylogenetically similar despite their large differences in species composition, a pattern implicating the Andes as an important dispersal barrier. In contrast, along the steep environmental gradient between the lowlands and the Andes we found evidence that species turnover is comprised of relatively distantly related species. The integration of local and regional patterns of diversity across environmental gradients and biogeographic barriers provides insight into the potential underlying mechanisms that have shaped community composition and phylogenetic diversity in one of the most species-rich, complex regions of the world.
Niches, body sizes, and the disassembly of mammal communities on the Sunda Shelf islands
Authors: Okie Jordan G. , Brown James H.
Published: September 2009

The rising sea level at the end of the Pleistocene that created the islands of the Sunda Shelf in Indonesia and Malaysia provides a natural experiment in community disassembly and offers insights into the effects of body size and niches on abundance, distribution, and diversity. Since isolation, terrestrial mammal communities of these islands have been reduced by extinction, with virtually no offsetting colonization. We document three empirical patterns of disassembly, all of which are significantly different from null models of random assembly: (i) a diversity–area relationship: the number of taxa is strongly and positively correlated with island area; (ii) nested subset composition: species that occur on small islands tend to be subsets of more diverse communities inhabiting larger islands; and (iii) body size distributions: species of intermediate body sizes occur on the greatest number of islands, and smaller islands have smaller ranges of body sizes, caused by the absence of species of both very large and extremely small size. These patterns reveal the role of body size and other niche characteristics, such as habitat requirements and trophic status, in the differential susceptibility of taxa to extinction.
Minimal dynamics and the classification of C*-algebras
Authors: Toms Andrew S. , Winter Wilhelm
Published: September 2009

Let
X
be an infinite, compact, metrizable space of finite covering dimension and α:
X
→
X
a minimal homeomorphism. We prove that the crossed product C(
X
) ⋊
α
ℤ absorbs the Jiang-Su algebra tensorially and has finite nuclear dimension. As a consequence, these algebras are determined up to isomorphism by their graded ordered
K
-theory under the necessary condition that their projections separate traces. This result applies, in particular, to those crossed products arising from uniquely ergodic homeomorphisms.
Ancient origin of placental expression in the growth hormone genes of anthropoid primates
Authors: Papper Zack , Jameson Natalie M. , Romero Roberto , Weckle Amy L. , Mittal Pooja , Benirschke Kurt , Santolaya-Forgas Joaquin , Uddin Monica , Haig David , Goodman Morris , Wildman Derek E.
Published: September 2009

In anthropoid primates, growth hormone (GH) genes have undergone at least 2 independent locus expansions, one in platyrrhines (New World monkeys) and another in catarrhines (Old World monkeys and apes). In catarrhines, the GH cluster has a pituitary-expressed gene called
GH1
; the remaining GH genes include placental GHs and placental lactogens. Here, we provide cDNA sequence evidence that the platyrrhine GH cluster also includes at least 3 placenta expressed genes and phylogenetic evidence that placenta expressed anthropoid GH genes have undergone strong adaptive evolution, whereas pituitary-expressed GH genes have faced strict functional constraint. Our phylogenetic evidence also points to lineage-specific gene gain and loss in early placental mammalian evolution, with at least three copies of the GH gene present at the time of the last common ancestor (LCA) of primates, rodents, and laurasiatherians. Anthropoid primates and laurasiatherians share gene descendants of one of these three copies, whereas rodents and strepsirrhine primates each maintain a separate copy. Eight of the amino-acid replacements that occurred on the lineage leading to the LCA of extant anthropoids have been implicated in GH signaling at the maternal-fetal interface. Thus, placental expression of GH may have preceded the separate series of GH gene duplications that occurred in catarrhines and platyrrhines (i.e., the roles played by placenta-expressed GHs in human pregnancy may have a longer evolutionary history than previously appreciated).