bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single Voxel Proton Spectroscopy for Neurofeedback at 7 Tesla
Authors: Koush Yury , Elliott Mark A. , Mathiak Klaus
Published: September 2011

Echo-planar imaging (EPI) in fMRI is regularly used to reveal BOLD activation in presubscribed regions of interest (ROI). The response is mediated by relative changes in T2* which appear as changes in the image pixel intensities. We have proposed an application of functional single-voxel proton spectroscopy (fSVPS) for real-time studies at ultra-high MR field which can be comparable to the EPI BOLD fMRI technique. A spin-echo SVPS protocol without water suppression was acquired with 310 repetitions on a 7T Siemens MR scanner (TE/TR = 20/1000 ms, flip angle α = 90°, voxel size 10 × 10 × 10 mm3). Transmitter reference voltage was optimized for the voxel location. Spectral processing of the water signal free induction decay (FID) using log-linear regression was used to estimate the T2* change between rest and activation of a functional task. The FID spectrum was filtered with a Gaussian window around the water peak, and log-linear regression was optimized for the particular ROI by adoption of the linearization length. The spectroscopic voxel was positioned on an ROI defined from a real-time fMRI EPI BOLD localizer. Additional online signal processing algorithms performed signal drift removal (exponential moving average), despiking and low-pass filtering (modified Kalman filter) and, finally, the dynamic feedback signal normalization. Two functional tasks were used to estimate the sensitivity of the SVPS method compared to BOLD signal changes, namely the primary motor cortex (PMC, left hand finger tapping) and visual cortex (VC, blinking checkerboard). Four healthy volunteers performed these tasks and an additional session using real-time signal feedback modulating their activation level of the PMC. Results show that single voxel spectroscopy is able to provide a good and reliable estimation of the BOLD signal changes. Small data size and FID signal processing instead of processing entire brain volumes as well as more information revealed from the acquired total water spectrum, i.e., direct estimation of the T2* values and B0 changes, make SVPS proton spectroscopy suitable and advantageous for real-time neurofeedback studies. Particular challenges of ultra-high field spectroscopy due to the non-linearity in the spectral information, e.g., poor main magnetic field homogeneity and the absence of motion correction for the SVPS sequence may lead to the special artifacts in the control signal which still need to be addressed. The contrast to noise ratio (CNR), experimental statistic (t-values) and percent signal change were used as quality parameters to estimate the method performance. The potential and challenges of the spectroscopic approach for fMRI studies needs to be further investigated.
Formulation and Evaluation of Celastrol-Loaded Liposomes
Authors: Song Jie , Shi Feng , Zhang Zhenhai , Zhu Fenxia , Xue Jing , Tan Xiaobin , Zhang Luyong , Jia Xiaobin
Published: September 2011

The main purpose of this study was to evaluate the intestinal absorption and the antineoplastic effect of the poorly water-soluble drug celastrol when liposomes were used as oral drug delivery system. Liposomes were prepared by the ethanol-injection method. An optimized liposome formulation composed of phospholipid, cholesterol and Tween-80 resulted in favorable encapsulation efficiency at 98.06 ± 0.94%. Homogeneous and stable particle size of 89.6 ± 7.3 nm and zeta potential of −(87.7 ± 5.8) mV were determined by laser particle size analyzer. Subsequently, the four-site perfusion rat intestinal model revealed that celastrol-loaded liposomes had improved effective permeability compared to the free drug in four intestinal segments (p < 0.05). Moreover, celastrol-loaded liposomes could also inhibit the tumor growth in C57BL/6 mice. These results suggest that liposomes could be a promising perioral carrier for celastrol.
Reconstruction of Self-Sparse 2D NMR Spectra from Undersampled Data in the Indirect Dimension
Authors: Qu Xiaobo , Guo Di , Cao Xue , Cai Shuhui , Chen Zhong
Published: September 2011

Reducing the acquisition time for two-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance (2D NMR) spectra is important. One way to achieve this goal is reducing the acquired data. In this paper, within the framework of compressed sensing, we proposed to undersample the data in the indirect dimension for a type of self-sparse 2D NMR spectra, that is, only a few meaningful spectral peaks occupy partial locations, while the rest of locations have very small or even no peaks. The spectrum is reconstructed by enforcing its sparsity in an identity matrix domain with ℓp (p = 0.5) norm optimization algorithm. Both theoretical analysis and simulation results show that the proposed method can reduce the reconstruction errors compared with the wavelet-based ℓ1 norm optimization.
Passive and Active Vaccination Strategies to Prevent Ricin Poisoning
Authors: Pincus Seth H. , Smallshaw Joan E. , Song Kejing , Berry Jody , Vitetta Ellen S.
Published: September 2011

Ricin toxin (RT) is derived from castor beans, produced by the plant Ricinus communis. RT and its toxic A chain (RTA) have been used therapeutically to arm ligands that target disease-causing cells. In most cases these ligands are cell-binding monoclonal antibodies (MAbs). These ligand-toxin conjugates or immunotoxins (ITs) have shown success in clinical trials [1]. Ricin is also of concern in biodefense and has been classified by the CDC as a Class B biothreat. Virtually all reports of RT poisoning have been due to ingestion of castor beans, since they grow abundantly throughout the world and are readily available. RT is easily purified and stable, and is not difficult to weaponize. RT must be considered during any “white powder” incident and there have been documented cases of its use in espionage [2,3]. The clinical syndrome resulting from ricin intoxication is dependent upon the route of exposure. Countermeasures to prevent ricin poisoning are being developed and their use will depend upon whether military or civilian populations are at risk of exposure. In this review we will discuss ricin toxin, its cellular mode of action, the clinical syndromes that occur following exposure and the development of pre- and post-exposure approaches to prevent of intoxication.
Functional RNA Elements in the Dengue Virus Genome
Authors: Gebhard Leopoldo G. , Filomatori Claudia V. , Gamarnik Andrea V.
Published: September 2011

Dengue virus (DENV) genome amplification is a process that involves the viral RNA, cellular and viral proteins, and a complex architecture of cellular membranes. The viral RNA is not a passive template during this process; it plays an active role providing RNA signals that act as promoters, enhancers and/or silencers of the replication process. RNA elements that modulate RNA replication were found at the 5' and 3' UTRs and within the viral coding sequence. The promoter for DENV RNA synthesis is a large stem loop structure located at the 5' end of the genome. This structure specifically interacts with the viral polymerase NS5 and promotes RNA synthesis at the 3' end of a circularized genome. The circular conformation of the viral genome is mediated by long range RNA-RNA interactions that span thousands of nucleotides. Recent studies have provided new information about the requirement of alternative, mutually exclusive, structures in the viral RNA, highlighting the idea that the viral genome is flexible and exists in different conformations. In this article, we describe elements in the promoter SLA and other RNA signals involved in NS5 polymerase binding and activity, and provide new ideas of how dynamic secondary and tertiary structures of the viral RNA participate in the viral life cycle.
Knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding head lice infestations in rural Nigeria
Authors: Heukelbach Jorg , Ugbomoiko Uade Samuel
Published: September 2011

Introduction: Head lice infestations are common in sub-Saharan Africa, but knowledge, attitudes and practices have never been studied in this region. Methodology: This population-based study was conducted in a small rural community (population = 590) in Kwara State, Central Nigeria. Inhabitants of the community were interviewed regarding head lice infestations, using a pre-tested structured questionnaire, and examined regarding the presence of active pediculosis. Results: Of the 496 participants included, 367 (74.0%) had experienced head lice infestations, but only 26 (11.1%) of the individuals older than 15 years knew the correct mode of transmission. Of 142 individuals with active pediculosis, only 1 (0.7%) felt ashamed. Treatment was most commonly done by grooming (46.3%), followed by combing (27.2%). Only 4.6% used pediculicides, and 21.8% did not apply any treatment. Opinions about difficulties in controlling head lice were asked in three groups: biological, technical and social. In the first group, the most common difficulty noted was detecting head lice (52.1%), followed by possible resistance that would lengthen the time of infestation (38.9%). Technical constraints included concerns on the safety and effectiveness of products (48.7%) and difficulties in obtaining treatment (46.2%). Social contraints included difficulty in treating children (24.4%), lack of knowledge (23.5%), and the social behavior of children (22.2%). Conclusions: Head lice were not perceived as an important disease in a rural Nigerian community, and feelings about the infestation were mostly indifferent. Despite its common occurrence, knowledge on head lice was limited.
Entre Libye et Soudan : la fermeture d'une piste transsaharienne
Authors: Drozdz Martine , Pliez Olivier
Published: September 2011

Résumé La fermeture des pistes sahariennes entre le Soudan et la Libye en 2003 a entraîné le démantèlement d’une des principales routes empruntées par les migrants subsahariens se rendant en Afrique du Nord durant les années 1990. Mais cette route transsaharienne était initialement un champ migratoire circonscrit au Darfour. Comment s’est-il étendu ensuite à l’ensemble du Soudan ? Quelles recompositions la décision de fermeture entraîne-t-elle dans l’ensemble des villes et des marchés intégrés au réseau migratoire et commerçant ? C’est à la fois la pérennité et la mutation des communautés marchandes, des flux migratoires, des marchés et lieux de transit des flux transsahariens au départ ou via le Soudan qui seront abordés ici.
Quand les frères burkinabè de la petite Jamahiriyya s'arrêtent à Tripoli
Authors: Bredeloup Sylvie , Zongo Mahamadou
Published: September 2011

Résumé Sensibles aux appels réitérés du dirigeant de la grande Jamahiriya – le nouveau chantre de l’Union africaine –, quelques Burkinabè n’ont pas hésité à s’engager dans la périlleuse traversée des déserts sahariens au cours de la dernière décennie. Les uns espéraient améliorer notablement leurs conditions de vie en trouvant un emploi ponctuel mais rémunérateur à Tripoli ou Sebha ; les autres, plus aventureux, envisageaient de poursuivre leur chemin vers l’Europe à partir de cette porte d’entrée. D’autres enfin, plus récemment, ont fui le conflit ivoirien sans prendre le temps de reconfigurer leur projet migratoire, emboîtant le pas à des compatriotes avertis. Alors que de nouvelles relations diplomatiques s’instaurent entre la Libye et les pays européens, d’autres stratégies migratoires émergent. Alors que l’embargo a été levé, le gouvernement de M. Kadhafi accepte de jouer le rôle de « sentinelle avancée » pour les États de Schengen principalement préoccupés par la défense de la « forteresse Europe », contribuant à la diffusion de l’amalgame bien souvent réalisé entre clandestinité et criminalité mais aussi à la précarisation extrême des migrants dernièrement arrivés.
Investissements directs étrangers, mondialisation et emploi au Viêt-nam
Authors: Henaff Nolwen
Published: September 2011

Résumé Le Viêt-nam, dont la croissance économique a été particulièrement soutenue au cours des dix dernières années, est souvent perçu comme une menace par les autres pays du Sud avec lesquels il est en concurrence directe, tant pour les exportations que pour l’attraction des investissements étrangers et par les pays du Nord qui voient en lui une destination privilégiée des délocalisations en raison de ses faibles coûts de main d’œuvre. Au regard des débats qui ont cours dans les pays du Nord sur l’impact des délocalisations sur l’emploi, sur le statut et la protection des salariés, cet article se propose d’analyser la portée et la nature de l’impact des investissements directs étrangers et de l’intégration internationale sur l’emploi au Viêt-nam à travers les tendances récentes en matière de création d’emploi, de contrat de travail, de rémunération, de recrutement, et de formation dans les entreprises opérant au Viêt-nam, en accordant une importance particulière aux entreprises à capitaux étrangers.
Conflit de couleurs. Enjeux géopolitiques autour de la naturalisation de sportifs africains
Authors: Poli Raffaele
Published: September 2011

Résumé En analysant les processus de naturalisation de sportifs et d’intégration de footballeurs doubles nationaux au sein de sélections nationales dans une perspective géopolitique, l’article met en exergue l’inégalité des rapports de force entre pays riches, tant en Europe que dans le Golfe Persique, et pays défavorisés, en Afrique. Différents exemples illustrent les enjeux sous-jacents aux changements de nationalité opérés par des sportifs africains au bénéfice de pays à même de leur offrir de meilleures conditions de vie. Il apparaît ainsi que si les pays africains ne subissent pas passivement cette « fuite des muscles », ils tendent à sortir perdants dans la lutte entre États pour l’appropriation du talent des meilleurs sportifs.
Péninsule et incertitudes coréennes : quels enjeux géopolitiques pour la Chine ?
Authors: Colin Sébastien
Published: September 2011

La Chine est aujourd’hui le seul pays au monde à entretenir des relations étroites avec les deux Corées dans le contexte d’une péninsule coréenne divisée. La politique chinoise vis-à-vis de la péninsule comprend trois tendances : réduction des tensions concernant le dossier nucléaire nord-coréen, maintien des liens traditionnels et des relations économiques avec la Corée du Nord et coopération économique avec la Corée du Sud. Le principal souci de la Chine est en fait de préserver la stabilité et de prévenir un potentiel nouveau conflit sur la péninsule coréenne qui représente historiquement pour elle un véritable « verrou géopolitique » et constitue aujourd’hui un dossier complexe, ponctué d’incertitudes, sur lequel sa marge de manœuvre n’est pas sans limites. Le contexte de la division coréenne et son hypothétique future réunification oblige la Chine à anticiper divers scénarios qui rendent parfois sa politique envers la péninsule ambivalente.
Travail et consommation : polar contemporain et nouvelles formes de domination
Authors: Floris Bernard , Ledun Marin
Published: September 2011

Résumé Le roman noir contemporain critique la société dans laquelle il naît. Ce faisant, il permet aux lecteurs de prendre conscience des mutations de notre monde. Ce point de vue défendu par Bernard Floris et Marin Ledun, allie constats sociologiques et histoire du polar.
Vous avez le droit de garder le silence
Authors: Oppel Jean-Hugues
Published: September 2011

Résumé Considéré comme l’un des principaux héritiers du néopolar français, Jean-Hugues Oppel est l’auteur de nombreux polars politiques, le plus souvent satiriques. Il livre ici pour Mouvements un regard critique sur l’apparition du polar à la télévision française. Récompensé par le Grand Prix de littérature policière en 1996, il a également été assistant opérateur de plusieurs long-métrages auprès de cinéastes de renom tels que Roman Polanski ou Bertrand Tavernier. Ce « billet d’humeur » exploite les enjeux des auteurs et du genre face à l’écran.
Lifting the curse: Pearl Jam’s "Alive" and "Bushleaguer" and the marketplace of meanings
Authors: Weglarz Kristine
Published: September 2011

In tracing how Pearl Jam consciously and unconsciously create their fans by their actions, I argue that work and fandom of the band are synonymous for fans who wish to become producers in a metaphorical marketplace of fandom. I use theories of fandom to examine and explain two important (and related) phenomena: first, the relationship between fans and musicians and the creation, adoption, and promotion of a sphere in which fans themselves can becomes producers as well as consumers; and second, the backlash of fans against musicians endorsing a particular political orientation through their compositions and performances. In particular, I focus on that group of Pearl Jam fans who took issue with the band's public disapproval of George W. Bush during their 2003 tour, but whose opposition to the band's position cannot be explained by ideological differences or a belief that music and politics are spheres that should not overlap. Instead, these fans oppose a shift they perceive in the band's attitude toward a democratic exchange of meanings, an important way for Pearl Jam fans to become producers rather than just consumers. As a result, the backlash from these fans, while sparked by Pearl Jam's anti-Bush live performance of "Bushleaguer," is due more to a disjunction between the band's long-term endorsement of democratic and participatory politics and what the fans saw a shift toward counterdemocratic prescriptive politics.
Constitutive and Inflammation-Dependent Antimicrobial Peptides Produced by Epithelium Are Differentially Processed and Inactivated by the Commensal Finegoldia magna and the Pathogen Streptococcus pyogenes
Authors: Frick Inga-Maria , Nordin Sara L. , Baumgarten Maria , Mörgelin Matthias , Sørensen Ole E. , Olin Anders I. , Egesten Arne
Published: September 2011

Epithelial linings serve as physical barriers and produce antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) to maintain host integrity. Examples are the bactericidal proteins midkine (MK) and BRAK/CXCL14 that are constitutively produced in the skin epidermal layer, where the anaerobic Gram-positive coccoid commensal Finegoldia magna resides. Consequently, this bacterium is likely to encounter both MK and BRAK/CXCL14, making these molecules possible threats to its habitat. In this study, we show that MK expression is upregulated during inflammation, concomitant with a strong downregulation of BRAK/CXCL14, resulting in changed antibacterial conditions. MK, BRAK/CXCL14, and the inflammation-dependent antimicrobial β-defensins human β-defensin (hBD)-2 and hBD-3 all showed bactericidal activity against both F. magna and the virulent pathogen Streptococcus pyogenes at similar concentrations. SufA, a released protease of F. magna, degraded MK and BRAK/CXCL14 but not hBD-2 nor hBD-3. Cleavage was seen at lysine and arginine residues, amino acids characteristic of AMPs. Intermediate SufA-degraded fragments of MK and BRAK/CXCL14 showed stronger bactericidal activity against S. pyogenes than F. magna, thus promoting survival of the latter. In contrast, the cysteine-protease SpeB of S. pyogenes rapidly degraded all AMPs investigated. The proteins FAF and SIC, released by F. magna and S. pyogenes, respectively, neutralized the antibacterial activity of MK and BRAK/CXCL14, protein FAF being the most efficient. Quantitation and colocalization by immunoelectron microscopy demonstrated significant levels and interactions of the molecules in in vivo and ex vivo samples. The findings reflect strategies used by a permanently residing commensal and a virulent pathogen, the latter operating during the limited time course of invasive disease.
Novel Use of Prolene Suture for Duct Delineation during Microductectomy
Authors: Dindyal Shiva , Vaidya Jayant Sharad
Published: September 2011

Classically, microductectomy is performed using a probe inserted via the offending duct to delineate and identify the responsible duct [...]
Topical Application of Ankaferd Blood Stopper® Modifies the Healing of Colon Snastomosis in Rats
Authors: Alptekin Husnu , Yilmaz Huseyin , Erdem Sami , Esen Hasan , Sahin Mustafa
Published: September 2011

Ankaferd Blood Stopper® (ABS) offered as a hemostatic agent is a standardized herbal extract obtained from five different plants. The effects of ABS on colonic anastomosis are unknown. This study was designed to assess potential effects on the anastomosis of left colon in an experimental animal model. Thirtytwo male Wistar albino rats were randomized into two groups and subjected to colon anastomosis. The study group subjected to colon anastomosis with topical application of ABS to control of mucosal bleeding at the cut ends of the colon, and the control group subjected to colon anastomosis only. The rats were killed 3 and 7 days postoperatively. Four types of assessment were performed: bursting pressure, bursting wall tension, histopathology, and biochemical analysis. Compared to the control group, ABS used rats displayed a higher bursting pressure (p < 0.05) and anastomotic hydroxyproline content (p < 0.05). The use of ABS leads to a significant decrease in malondealdehyde levels (p < 0.05) and increase in paraoxonase activity (p < 0.05) at both time points. Histopathological analysis revealed that the use of ABS improves anastomotic healing in terms of reepithelialization, increased neovascularization, diminished ischemic necrosis, and inflammatory infiltration to muscle layer. Topical application of ABS to control of mucosal bleeding at the cut ends of the colon significantly improve the anastomotic wound healing by means of increasing mechanical strength and amount of tissue HPL level.
Single Port Paediatric Heminephrouretectomy
Authors: Blackburn Simon , Chow Vanessa , Kalidasan Varadarajan , Mahomed Anies
Published: September 2011

We present a 4-year-old girl who underwent a single incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) heminephrouretectomy. The procedure was completed without intra-operative complications or conversion. The operative time was 162 min. At 3 month follow up there is no evident scar and the patient is asymptomatic. SILS upper moiety heminephrouretectomy for duplex kidney is safe and technically feasible in children.
South African teachers’ conceptualisations of gradient: A study of historically disadvantaged teachers in an Advanced Certificate in Education programme
Authors: Mudaly Vimolan , Moore-Russo Deborah
Published: September 2011

This study looked at how a group of South African secondary school mathematics teachers regarded the concept of gradient (slope). Results are reported from nine free-response items on a paper-and-pencil test administered to practising teachers who were pursuing qualifications to teach Grades 10–12 mathematics through an Advanced Certificate in Education (ACE) programme. The findings suggest that teachers’ understanding of gradient varies greatly. A number of teachers in the study demonstrated very little to no understanding of this important concept, whilst others demonstrated a strong understanding of gradient and were able to conceptualise it in many different ways. Implications for teacher professional development are considered.
Safety and Efficacy of Daptomycin in the Treatment of Gram-Positive Pathogens
Authors: Kelesidis Theodoros
Published: September 2011

Daptomycin is an antibacterial agent with activity against Gram-positive organisms and is a reliable option for the treatment of invasive Gram-positive infections. Daptomycin has been approved for the treatment of complicated skin and skin-structure infections and bacteremia including right-sided endocarditis. In methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) bacteremia and endocarditis, it has been shown to be noninferior to conventional treatment with vancomycin with or without an aminoglycoside. It has also been used successfully in the treatment of soft-tissue infections. Little experience is available on the treatment of bone and joint infections, although initial data are encouraging. Daptomycin has rapid bactericidal activity that is associated with its unique mechanism of action on the cell membrane. It has favorable pharmacokinetic properties allowing once-daily dosing. Toxicity is rare with currently recommended dosing. With the rising antimicrobial resistance in Gram-positive infections, the use of daptomycin is expected to increase in the following years. However, as a consequence of its increased use, daptomycin resistance may emerge as a significant problem. The current data suggest that daptomycin has a relevant role in the therapeutic armamentarium of physicians for the treatment of Gram-positive infections.
A pilot audit of a protocol for ambulatory investigation of predicted low-risk patients with possible pulmonary embolism
Authors: McDonald AH , Murphy R
Published: September 2011

Background: Patients with possible pulmonary embolism (PE) commonly present to acute medical services. Research has led to the identification of lowrisk patients suitable for ambulatory management. We report on a protocol designed to select low-risk patients for ambulatory investigation if confirmatory imaging is not available that day.

Methods: The protocol was piloted in the Emergency Department and Medical Assessment Area at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh. We retrospectively analysed electronic patient records in an open observational audit of all patients managed in the ambulatory arm over five months of use.

Results: We analysed 45 patients’ records. Of these, 91.1% required imaging to confirm or refute PE, 62.2% received a computed tomography pulmonary angiogram (CTPA). In 25% of patients, PE was confirmed with musculoskeletal pain (22.7%), and respiratory tract infection (15.9%) the next most prevalent diagnoses. Alternative diagnoses was provided by CTPA in 32% of cases. We identified no adverse events or readmissions but individualised follow-up was not attempted.

Conclusions: The data from this audit suggests this protocol can be applied to select and manage low-risk patients suitable for ambulatory investigation of possible PE. A larger prospective comparative study would be required to accurately define the safety and effectiveness of this protocol.
Central pontine myelinolysis without hyponatraemia
Authors: Bose P , Kunnacherry A , Maliakal P
Published: September 2011

A 55-year-old woman with a history of excess alcohol intake presented to the acute medical unit following concerns regarding her electrolyte disturbances. During correction of the electrolytes, the patient developed central pontine myelinolysis. The unusual features in the case were the absence of hyponatraemia which is usually associated with central pontine myelinolysis and also the good recovery that the patient made. Looking at the electrolyte changes, we suspect there may be a link to the rapid osmotic shifts occurring during refeeding and central pontine myelinolysis.
Catchment classification: empirical analysis of hydrologic similarity based on catchment function in the eastern USA
Authors: Sawicz K. , Wagener T. , Sivapalan M. , Troch P. A. , Carrillo G.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. Hydrologic similarity between catchments, derived from similarity in how catchments respond to precipitation input, is the basis for catchment classification, for transferability of information, for generalization of our hydrologic understanding and also for understanding the potential impacts of environmental change. An important question in this context is, how far can widely available hydrologic information (precipitation-temperature-streamflow data and generally available physical descriptors) be used to create a first order grouping of hydrologically similar catchments? We utilize a heterogeneous dataset of 280 catchments located in the Eastern US to understand hydrologic similarity in a 6-dimensional signature space across a region with strong environmental gradients. Signatures are defined as hydrologic response characteristics that provide insight into the hydrologic function of catchments. A Bayesian clustering scheme is used to separate the catchments into 9 homogeneous classes, which enable us to interpret hydrologic similarity with respect to similarity in climatic and landscape attributes across this region. We finally derive several hypotheses regarding controls on individual signatures from the analysis performed here.
A Viscosity Approximation Method with a Weakly Contractive Mapping of General Iterative Processes for Nonexpansive Semigroups in Banach Spaces
Authors: Sunthrayuth Pongsakorn , Sudsukh Chanan , Kumam Poom
Published: September 2011

We introduce a new viscosity approximation method with a weakly contractive mapping of general iterative processes for finding common fixed point of nonexpansive semigroups {T(t):t∈ℝ+} in the framework of Banach spaces. We proved that under some mild conditions these iterative processes converge strongly to the common fixed point of {T(t):t∈ℝ+}, which is the unique solution of some variational inequality. The results obtained in this paper extend and improve on the recent results of Li et al. (2009), Chen and He (2007), and many others as special cases.
Open access and health librarians in 2011
Authors: Greyson Devon
Published: September 2011

This paper provides an overview of the open access (OA) movement to date, with specific focus on both health information and Canada, updates on some major areas of OA activity, and a discussion of emerging opportunities and needs for librarians due to the evolving OA paradigm.
Flow Injection Analysis Techniques in Atomic Spectroscopy
Authors: Pereiro Rosario , Sanz‐Medel Alfredo
Published: September 2011

Flow injection analysis (FIA), developed originally for the automation of serial assays, has become a powerful tool most adequate for performing on‐line any sample preparation before final measurement (e.g. sample dissolution, dilutions, matrix removal, preconcentration, etc.). It is not surprising that the combination of FIA with atomic spectrometric techniques has enlarged the analytical potential of atomic methods and expanded their field of applications. The collection of sample manipulation processes that can be covered today by flow operation procedures is amazing and therefore the general instrumentation required is reviewed in this article.

The description of the different flow strategies is carried out according to a hierarchy going from simple dilutions, reagent mixing, or standard additions, to more sophisticated flow manifolds such as those based on the use of two phases (e.g. gas–liquid, liquid–liquid, or solid–liquid) for separation/preconcentration purposes. Modern approaches allowing for on‐line decomposition/dissolution of solid samples (e.g. photooxidation and microwave heating) are also described.

The coupling of the above flow methodologies to a variety of atomization/excitation/ionization sources (flames, quartz tubes, graphite furnaces, inductively coupled plasmas (ICPs), microwave‐induced plasmas (MIPs), glow discharges (GDs), etc.) is detailed, aiming to show the usefulness of this combination for atomic techniques based either on photon measurements (absorption, emission, and fluorescence) or on ion measurements (mass spectrometry (MS)).
Hearsay Evidence
Authors: Moenssens Andre
Published: September 2011

This brief article discusses the applicability of the rule against the use of hearsay evidence in criminal prosecutions in the United States. The interaction of the common law and constitutional principles is also explored.
Lip Prints: Admissibility of Comparison Results
Authors: Moenssens Andre
Published: September 2011

Comparing the image of a human lip impressed on an object associated with a crime scene, such as a glass, paper cup, or other surface, with that of the lips of a suspect, has been asserted by crime scene investigators to offer potentially useful evidence in identifying defendants in criminal cases. Often, it has been suggested that such traces have individualization value, though little scientific research has been published on the topic. No books or scientific literature exists examining the persistence of lip creases; and there is little information to be found on how similar or different such crease markings may be among people. Nor have generally accepted examination methodologies been described and tested.

Although frequently mentioned in criminal investigation books as providing valid evidence of identity, lip impressions have rarely featured in actual casework, because the technique is not one of the recognized forensic disciplines.

This article discusses the only appellate court decision in a criminal case involving the admissibility of evidence of a lip print comparison; it also considers the evidentiary standard by which admissibility has been judged.
Fundamentals of Rotational Spectroscopy
Authors: Bauder Alfred
Published: September 2011

Essential features of rotational spectra are developed on the basis of the quantum mechanics of molecular rotation. The effects of the harmonic vibrations of the nuclei are considered on the molecular rotation. Permanent electric dipole moments are required for the observation of pure rotational transitions. The Stark effect is used to determine the electric dipole moment. Nuclear quadrupole splittings give information on the electronic charge distribution in molecules. Large‐amplitude internal motions in molecules lead to splittings of rotational transitions. The splittings determine the potential barriers of the internal motions.
Fundamentals of Rotation–Vibration Spectra
Authors: Albert Sieghard , Albert Karen Keppler , Hollenstein Hans , Tanner Carine Manca , Quack Martin
Published: September 2011

We provide a survey of fundamental aspects of rotation–vibration spectra. A basic understanding of the concepts is obtained from a detailed discussion of rotation–vibration spectra of diatomic molecules with only one vibrational degree of freedom. This includes approximate and exact separation of rotation and vibration, effective spectroscopic constants, the effects of nuclear spin and statistics, and transition probabilities derived from the form of the electric dipole moment function. The underlying assumptions and accuracy of the determination of molecular structure from spectra are discussed. Polyatomic molecules show many interacting vibrational degrees of freedom. Energy levels and spectra are discussed on the basis of normal coordinates and effective Hamiltonians of interacting levels in Fermi resonance, and in more complex resonance polyads arising from anharmonic potential functions. The resulting time‐dependent dynamics of intramolecular energy flow is introduced as well. Effective Hamiltonians for interacting rotation–vibration levels are derived and applied to the practical treatment of complex spectra. Currently available computer programs aiding assignment and analysis are outlined.
Analytic Derivative Methods in Molecular Electronic Structure Theory: A New Dimension to Quantum Chemistry and its Applications to Spectroscopy
Authors: Yamaguchi Yukio , Schaefer Henry F.
Published: September 2011

During the last four decades, there have been many developments in the field of ab initio variational and nonvariational correlated wavefunctions, including nonvariational (yet size extensive) many‐body perturbation theory (MBPT) and coupled‐cluster (CC) methods. For these methods to be useful in solving problems in chemistry, analytical derivatives of total energies are almost always required. In this article, we first describe the analytic derivative methods for variational wavefunctions, namely, closed‐shell self‐consistent field (CLSCF), general restricted open‐shell SCF (GRSCF), configuration interaction (CI), and general multiconfiguration SCF (MCSCF). Then we describe the more recent developments in analytic derivative methods, including those for the MBPT and CC wavefunctions.
High‐ResolutionFTIRand Diode Laser Spectroscopy of Supersonic Jets
Authors: Snels Marcel , Horká‐Zelenková Veronika , Hollenstein Hans , Quack Martin
Published: September 2011

Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometers and tunable diode lasers in combination with a supersonic molecular beam expansion are a perfect tool for the investigation of molecules, ions, and radicals at low temperatures. The internal degrees of freedom of the molecules are adiabatically cooled to very low temperatures and thus only low‐lying energy levels are populated. The reduction of the number of populated levels at low temperatures makes the assignment of the spectra much easier as compared to the congested room‐temperature spectra. Under certain conditions, the Doppler linewidths are greatly reduced, corresponding to very low effective translational temperatures. Supersonic expansion also provides a suitable method for producing and investigating van der Waals clusters and hydrogen‐bonded complexes. Unstable species such as radicals and ions can be efficiently produced and studied in a molecular beam. The low rotational temperature allows for the study of nuclear spin symmetry conservation or conversion between nuclear spin isomers. A molecular beam expansion can be obtained by expanding gas through a slit or a circular nozzle. Both expansion geometries can be used in combination with a multipass optical setup and with cavity ring down spectroscopy, which enhances the effective absorption path length. Cooling of the molecules can be promoted by seeding in noble gases. This article summarizes the general aspects of the experimental technique as well as current developments. To demonstrate how powerful the combination of a molecular beam expansion with tunable diode laser and FTIR spectroscopy can be, we report results on some important current examples.
High‐resolution
IR
‐laser Jet Spectroscopy of Formic Acid Dimer
Authors: Havenith Martina , Birer Özgür
Published: September 2011

The article gives an overview of the high‐resolution spectroscopy of formic acid dimer (FAD) which serves as a prototype system of double hydrogen bonds. The structure as well as the dynamics of this system has been the subject of numerous experimental and theoretical studies. FAD exhibits a proton transfer tunneling in the double hydrogen bond. The proton tunneling was predicted by several theoretical groups. Using IR‐high resolution it was possible to yield very precise values for the tunneling splitting. The deduced proton transfer time is in the nanosecond regime. Recent theoretical studies are in very good agreement with the experimental data obtained by high resolution spectroscopy.
Electronic Spectroscopy in the Gas Phase
Authors: Pratt David W.
Published: September 2011

A frequency‐doubled continuous wave (CW) ring dye laser, operating in the ultraviolet (UV), has been combined with a molecular beam machine and rapid data acquisition methods to obtain the electronic spectra of several large polyatomic molecules and their weakly bound complexes at unparalleled spectral resolution, approaching one part in 10
9
. Thus revealed for the first time are the underlying molecular eigenstates of isolated molecules, which provide unique information about their structures and dynamical behavior in both ground and excited electronic states. Light‐induced changes in the electronic charge distributions of different electronic states, with or without the attached solvent molecules, are revealed by studies of these spectra in applied electric fields (the Stark effect). Potential applications of the method to small biological molecules are discussed.
Group Theory for High‐resolution Spectroscopy of Nonrigid Molecules
Authors: Schnell Melanie
Published: September 2011

Nonrigid molecules are an important molecule class and very intriguing to study. Already small molecules such as ammonia or Na3are known to be nonrigid. With increasing size, however, several large‐amplitude motions are possible in a molecule, which can even interact with one other. The molecular high‐resolution spectra of nonrigid molecules are known to be quite complicated and very rich in information. Details about the molecule and its internal dynamics, such as the molecular structure, the character of the chemical bonds as well as the barrier heights to internal rotation and their dependence on the chemical bonds can be extracted. However, because of the nonrigidity of the molecule and the complexity of such spectra, their analysis is usually quite challenging. Theoretical methods are needed for their prediction and analysis. This article concentrates on permutation‐inversion group theory and its usefulness in the analysis of high‐resolution spectra of nonrigid molecules, which is examined in more detail using different examples.
Attosecond Spectroscopy
Authors: Wörner Hans Jakob , Corkum Paul B.
Published: September 2011

Attosecond science unifies concepts originating from optical and collision physics and provides new methods to investigate the dynamics of matter on the fundamental timescale of electronic motion. The extreme time resolution arises in combination with angström spatial resolution, enabling imaging of ultrafast molecular processes.

We review the foundations and experimental applications of attosecond technology. It relies on a strong laser field that ionizes an atom or a molecule. The electron is accelerated in the laser field and may recollide with the parent ion. This recollision can lead to the emission of attosecond pulses in the vacuum‐ultraviolet to soft‐X‐ray region of the electromagnetic spectrum.

We describe how attosecond pulses are generated, characterized, and applied to the investigation of ultrafast dynamics of matter. One class of experiments uses the attosecond photons as pump or probe pulse to observe electronic dynamics. Another class uses the recolliding electrons to image nuclear dynamics, electronic structure, and electronic dynamics that were initiated by the ionization.

Prospects for the future of attosecond spectroscopy are presented.
High‐resolution Infrared Spectroscopy of Acetylene: Theoretical Background and Research Trends
Authors: Herman Michel
Published: September 2011

Modern high‐resolution infrared spectroscopy (HiReS) is illustrated thanks to both basic and recent developments around acetylene. Effective theoretical approaches and selected instrumental techniques are highlighted.
Nanostructured Ferroelectrics: Fabrication and Structure–Property Relations
Authors: Han Hee , Kim Yunseok , Alexe Marin , Hesse Dietrich , Lee Woo
Published: September 2011

With the continued demand for ultrahigh density ferroelectric data storage applications, it is becoming increasingly important to scale the dimension of ferroelectrics down to the nanometer‐scale region and to thoroughly understand the effects of miniaturization on the materials properties. Upon reduction of the physical dimension of the material, the change in physical properties associated with size reduction becomes extremely difficult to characterize and to understand because of a complicated interplay between structures, surface properties, strain effects from substrates, domain nucleation, and wall motions. In this Review, the recent progress in fabrication and structure‐property relations of nanostructured ferroelectric oxides is summarized. Various fabrication approaches are reviewed, with special emphasis on a newly developed stencil‐based method for fabricating ferroelectric nanocapacitors, and advantages and limitations of the processes are discussed. Stress‐induced evolutions of domain structures upon reduction of the dimension of the material and their implications on the electrical properties are discussed in detail. Distinct domain nucleation, growth, and propagation behaviors in nanometer‐scale ferroelectric capacitors are discussed and compared to those of micrometer‐scale counterparts. The structural effect of ferroelectric nanocapacitors on the domain switching behavior and cross‐talk between neighboring capacitors under external electric field is reviewed.
Using Psychodynamic Concepts to Measure Interpersonal Competencies during Social Work Training
Authors: Padykula Nora LaFond , Horwitz Mark
Published: September 2011

Empathy and interpersonal skills are components of mentalizing and competencies that social work students are expected to acquire during training. Yet limited scientific data exists on factors that influence their attainment. This study was conducted to examine how social work training and individual attachment style are associated with two aspects of mentalization: reading non‐verbal communication and reflective thinking. Using a cross‐sectional design, 63 social work students participated in this internet‐based study. Results showed that regardless of the amount of exposure to social work training, students with an insecure style of attachment had significant deficits in their ability to accurately identify non‐verbal expression of thoughts and emotions. Additional results showed that social work training significantly influenced the use of higher order reflective thinking. These findings suggest that students bring an internal relational template with them that is associated with one's capacity for mentalization, specifically accurately interpreting interpersonal communication. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress in Maternal Diabetes‐Induced Cardiac Malformations During Critical Cardiogenesis Period
Authors: Zhao Zhiyong
Published: September 2011

BACKGROUND

Cardiac abnormalities, including atrioventricular (AV) septal defects (AVSDs), are the most common birth defects in diabetic embryopathy. The AV septum is derived from the endocardial cushions, which undergo development and remodeling during septation. The impact of maternal diabetes on these processes needs to be identified. Maternal diabetes disturbs the function of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). The role of ER stress in cardiac malformation remains to be delineated to gain information for developing therapy.

METHODS

Female mice were induced diabetic via intravenous injection of streptozotocin. Pregnant mice were made hyperglycemic at desired embryonic (E) days. AVSDs were examined histologically at E15.5. ER stress‐associated factors were examined and quantified using immunohistochemical and immunoblot assays at E10.5. The role of ER stress in endocardial cell migration was investigated by treating endocardial cushion explants that were cultured in high glucose with an organic chaperone molecule, sodium 4‐phenylbutyrate.

RESULTS

The rate of AVSDs in the embryos that were exposed to maternal hyperglycemia during the period of endocardial cushion development was significantly higher than that in those during endocardial cushion remodeling. ER stress was increased in the hearts. Amelioration of ER stress restored endocardial cell migration under hyperglycemic conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

The development, rather than remodeling, of the endocardial cushions is the cardiomorphogenic process that is susceptible to the insult of maternal hyperglycemia in the formation of AVSDs. Maternal diabetes increases ER stress in the developing heart. ER stress plays an essential role in mediating the effect of hyperglycemia on endocardial cell migration.
Ficuschlorins A – D, Lactone Chlorins from the Leaves of Ficus microcarpa
Authors: Lin Huan‐You , Chiu Hsi‐Lin , Lan Yu‐Hsuang , Tzeng Chih‐Ying , Lee Tzong‐Huei , Lee Ching‐Kuo , Shao Yi‐Yuan , Chen Chiy‐Rong , Chang Chi‐I , Kuo Yueh‐Hsiung
Published: September 2011

Four new lactone chlorins, ficuschlorins A – D (1–4, resp.), and six known pheophytins were isolated from the leaves of Ficus microcarpa. The structures of these compounds were determined by 1D‐ and 2D‐NMR spectroscopy, and other techniques. New natural pheophytins were rarely obtained. In the past ten years, only three new pheophytins were isolated from natural sources.