bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Jahn-Teller and related effects in the silver trimer. I. The ab initio calculation of spectroscopically observable parameters for the X̃E′2 and ÃE″2 electronic states
Authors: Sioutis Ilias , Stakhursky Vadim L. , Pitzer Russell M. , Miller Terry A.
Published: March 2007

Extensive ab initio calculations were performed for the X̃E′2 and ÃE″2 states of Ag3, using a newly constructed basis set for Ag. An important goal of these calculations is to guide the analysis of the experimentally observed ÃE″2-X̃E′2 electronic spectrum. Vibrational frequencies of Ag3 for both the X̃ and Ã states are reported. Spectroscopically obtainable parameters describing the Jahn-Teller effect are calculated for the X̃ and Ã states. The magnitude of the spin-orbit effects for this relativistic system was also calculated for the X̃E′2 and ÃE″2 states. Using all this information, the X̃-Ã electronic spectrum is predicted for Ag3. Additionally, the geometries and symmetries of the global minima and saddle points as well as the barrier to pseudorotation around the moat of the potential energy surface are determined for both states.
Anisotropy of grain in nanoscaled magnetic materials
Authors: Sun Y. , Han G. B. , Han B. P. , Liu M. , Gao R. W.
Published: March 2007

The inter-grain exchange-coupling interaction and the anisotropy of grain in nanoscaled magnetic materials have been studied by putting forward an expression of anisotropy at grain boundary, K1ij(r), suitable for different coupling conditions. The value of anisotropy at grain interface K1ij(0) has a great effect on ⟨Kij⟩, especially on the average anisotropy of soft-hard phase grains ⟨K⟩. When K1sh(0) is smaller, the effect of the hard grain on the anisotropy of soft grain is weak, and ⟨K⟩ increases monotonously with increasing D. When K1sh(0) is larger, the effect of the hard grain on the anisotropy of soft grain is strong, and ⟨K⟩ appears maximum at a certain grain size. When the value of K1ij(0) is in a certain range, the calculated variations of anisotropy with D are consistent with that of coercivity given by other authors.
Piezoelectric/ultrananocrystalline diamond heterostructures for high-performance multifunctional micro/nanoelectromechanical systems
Authors: Srinivasan S. , Hiller J. , Kabius B. , Auciello O.
Published: March 2007

Most current micro/nanoelectromechanical systems (MEMS/NEMS) are based on silicon. However, silicon exhibits relatively poor mechanical/tribological properties, compromising applications to some devices. Diamond films with superior mechanical/tribological properties provide an excellent alternative platform material. Ultrananocrystalline diamond (UNCD®) in film form with 2–5nm grains exhibits excellent properties for high-performance MEMS/NEMS devices. Concurrently, piezoelectric Pb(ZrxTi1−x)O3 (PZT) films provide high sensitivity/low electrical noise for sensing/high-force actuation at relatively low voltages. Therefore, integration of PZT and UNCD films provides a high-performance platform for advanced MEMS/NEMS devices. This letter describes the bases of such integration and demonstration of low voltage piezoactuated hybrid PZT/UNCD cantilevers.
Multiwalled carbon nanotubes for flow-induced voltage generation
Authors: Liu Jianwei , Dai Liming , Baur Jeff W.
Published: March 2007

Recently it has been reported that voltage can be generated by passing fluids over single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) arrays with potential application to flow sensors with a large dynamic range. The present work investigates voltage generation properties of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) as a function of the relative orientation of the nanotube array with respect to the flow direction, flow velocity, and solution ionic strength. It was found that the flow-induced voltage can be significantly enhanced by aligning the nanotubes along the flow direction, increasing the flow velocity and/or the ionic strength of the flowing liquid. A flow-induced voltage of ∼30mV has been generated from our perpendicularly-aligned MWCNT in an aqueous solution of 1M NaCl at a relatively low flow velocity of 0.0005m∕s, which is 15 times higher than the highest voltage reported for single-walled carbon nanotubes. The results are generally consistent with the pulsating asymmetric ratcheting mechanism proposed for SWCNT arrays, in which an asymmetrical spatial distributed strain forms from interactions with the polar and ionic species at the tube surface and is driven along the tube by the fluid flow.
On the Lagrangian and Hamiltonian description of the damped linear harmonic oscillator
Authors: Chandrasekar V. K. , Senthilvelan M. , Lakshmanan M.
Published: March 2007

Using the modified Prelle-Singer approach, we point out that explicit time independent first integrals can be identified for the damped linear harmonic oscillator in different parameter regimes. Using these constants of motion, an appropriate Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formalism is developed and the resultant canonical equations are shown to lead to the standard dynamical description. Suitable canonical transformations to standard Hamiltonian forms are also obtained. It is also shown that a possible quantum mechanical description can be developed either in the coordinate or momentum representations using the Hamiltonian forms.
Single-active-electron ionization of C60 in intense laser pulses to high charge states
Authors: Jaroń-Becker A. , Becker A. , Faisal F. H. M.
Published: March 2007

Sequential ionization of the C60 fullerene to high charge states in ultrashort intense laser pulses is investigated within the strong-field S-matrix approach. Ion yields are calculated and saturation intensities are determined for a broad range of laser wavelengths between 395 and 1800nm at different pulse lengths. Comparisons of the S-matrix predictions for the saturation intensities with recent experimental data are in an overall satisfactory agreement, indicating that saturation of ionization of this complex molecule can be well described using the single-active-electron approach. The analysis of the results shows that the contributions from the hu-highest occupied molecular orbital to the ion yields dominate as compared to those from the inner valence shells hg and gg. Finally, it is demonstrated that the suppression of ionization of C60 and its ions, as observed in experiments, can be interpreted within the present theory as due to the finite cage size of the fullerenes and a multi-slit-like interference effect between partial waves emitted from the different nuclei of the fullerenes.
Thermal stability of nitrogen-doped SrTiO3 films: Electronic and optical properties studies
Authors: Mi Y. Y. , Yu Z. , Wang S. J. , Gao X. Y. , Wee A. T. S. , Ong C. K. , Huan C. H. A.
Published: March 2007

The thermal stability of nitrogen-doped SrTiO3 (001) films in terms of electronic and optical properties has been studied by using x-ray photoemission spectroscopy, x-ray absorption spectroscopy, and spectroscopic ellipsometry techniques. The chemical states of nitrogen in nitrogen-doped SrTiO3 films include both substitutional and interstitial states. The N 2p states localized above the O 2p-derived valence band maximum are attributed to the change of optical properties. Postannealing will induce the valence band edge shift due to the thermal instability of interstitial N states, which may degrade the photocatalysis of nitrogen-doped SrTiO3 films during applications.
Coaxial nanocable: Carbon nanotube core sheathed with boron nitride nanotube
Authors: Zhang Zhuhua , Guo Wanlin , Tai Guo’an
Published: March 2007

A coaxial nanocable model consisting of conductive carbon nanotube core and boron nitride nanotube sheath is proposed by ab initio calculations. The conduction electron density is mainly concentrated on the inner carbon shell at the optimal interwall distance about 0.35nm. The conductivity of the core carbon nanotube and the insulation of the boron nitride nanotube sheath are found to be rather tolerant to mechanical deformation.
Precision instrumentation for rolling element bearing characterization
Authors: Marsh Eric R. , Vigliano Vincent C. , Weiss Jeffrey R. , Moerlein Alex W. , Vallance R. Ryan
Published: March 2007

This article describes an instrument to measure the error motion of rolling element bearings. This challenge is met by simultaneously satisfying four requirements. First, an axial preload must be applied to seat the rolling elements in the bearing races. Second, one of the races must spin under the influence of an applied torque. Third, rotation of the remaining race must be prevented in a way that leaves the radial, axial/face, and tilt displacements free to move. Finally, the bearing must be fixtured and measured without introducing off-axis loading or other distorting influences. In the design presented here, an air bearing reference spindle with error motion of less than 10 nm rotates the inner race of the bearing under test. Noninfluencing couplings are used to prevent rotation of the bearing outer race and apply an axial preload without distorting the bearing or influencing the measurement. Capacitive displacement sensors with 2 nm resolution target the nonrotating outer race. The error motion measurement repeatability is shown to be less than 25 nm. The article closes with a discussion of how the instrument may be used to gather data with sufficient resolution to accurately estimate the contact angle of deep groove ball bearings.
Distinction between nonthermal plasma and thermal desorptions for NOx and CO2
Authors: Yoshida Keiichiro , Okubo Masaaki , Yamamoto Toshiaki
Published: March 2007

Nonthermal plasma (NTP) desorption is used in NOx aftertreatment systems for diesel engine exhaust gas. The authors conducted desorption experiments for both NTP and thermal desorptions under similar conditions and electric power levels. The results confirm that NO, NO2, and CO2 are desorbed by the NTP at lower gas temperatures, while the total amount of desorbed gas is nearly the same for both the processes. Moreover, the amount of NO2 for the NTP desorption is greater than that for the thermal desorption. The desorption of CO2 by the NTP is more significant and rapid than that by the thermal desorption.
Ultrasonic attenuation properties of glassy alloys in views of complex viscoelasticity
Authors: Fukuhara Mikio , Zhang Wei , Louzguine-Luzgin Dmitri V. , Inoue Akihisa , Nishiyama Nobuyuki
Published: March 2007

Using ultrasonics, acoustic attenuation characteristics of Pd40Cu30P20Ni10, Zr65Pd12.5Ni10Al7.5Cu5, Cu55Zr30Ti10Pd5, and Ti41.5Cu47.5Ni7.5Hf5Zr2.5Sn1 glassy alloys were examined in comparison with crystalline metals based on complex viscoelasticity. The glassy alloys favor to absorb the longitudinal one, but crystalline materials absorb the shear one, associated with periodicity and randomness of energy potentials, respectively. In sharp contrast to crystalline materials, Nyquist [Bell Syst. Tech. J. 11, 126 (1932)] diagrams of the glassy alloys are characterized by large areas of the third and the fourth quadrant in the loop, suggesting advancement of the relay in phase, that is, increment of the imaginary parts in complex waves.
Experimental observation of a band gap in individual Mn12 molecules on Au(111)
Authors: Voss S. , Fonin M. , Rüdiger U. , Burgert M. , Groth U.
Published: March 2007

The authors report on the electronic properties of individual molecules of two Mn12 derivatives chemically grafted on the functionalized Au(111) surface studied by means of ultrahigh vacuum scanning tunneling microscopy/spectroscopy at room temperature. Reproducible current-voltage curves were obtained from both Mn12 molecules, showing a well defined wide band gap. In agreement with the tunneling spectroscopy results, the bias voltage variation upon scanning leads to apparent height changes of the Mn12 clusters. The authors discuss these findings in the light of the recent band structure calculations and electronic transport measurements on single Mn12 molecules.
Semiparametric Filtering of Spatial Autocorrelation: The Eigenvector Approach
Authors: Tiefelsdorf Michael , Griffith Daniel A
Published: March 2007

In the context of spatial regression analysis, several methods can be used to control for the statistical effects of spatial dependencies among observations. Maximum likelihood or Bayesian approaches account for spatial dependencies in a parametric framework, whereas recent spatial filtering approaches focus on nonparametrically removing spatial autocorrelation. In this paper we propose a semiparametric spatial filtering approach that allows researchers to deal explicitly with (a) spatially lagged autoregressive models and (b) simultaneous autoregressive spatial models. As in one non-parametric spatial filtering approach, a specific subset of eigenvectors from a transformed spatial link matrix is used to capture dependencies among the disturbances of a spatial regression model. However, the optimal subset in the proposed filtering model is identified more intuitively by an objective function that minimizes spatial autocorrelation rather than maximizes a model fit. The proposed objective function has the advantage that it leads to a robust and smaller subset of selected eigenvectors. An application of the proposed eigenvector spatial filtering approach, which uses a cancer mortality dataset for the 508 US State Economic Areas, demonstrates its feasibility, flexibility, and simplicity.
Hidden cellulases in termites: revision of an old hypothesis
Authors: Tokuda Gaku , Watanabe Hirofumi
Published: March 2007

The intestinal flagellates of termites produce cellulases that contribute to cellulose digestion of their host termites. However, 75% of all termite species do not harbour the cellulolytic flagellates; the endogenous cellulase secreted from the midgut tissue has been considered a sole source of cellulases in these termites. Using the xylophagous flagellate-free termitesNasutitermes takasagoensisandNasutitermes walkeri, we successfully solubilized cellulases present in the hindgut pellets. Zymograms showed that the hindguts of these termites possessed several cellulases and contained up to 59% cellulase activity against crystalline cellulose when compared with the midgut. Antibiotic treatment administered toN. takasagoensissignificantly reduced cellulase activity in the hindgut, suggesting that these cellulases were produced by symbiotic bacteria.
Modelling real-time dynamic substructuring using partial delay differential equations
Authors: Kyrychko Y.N , Hogan S.J , Gonzalez-Buelga A , Wagg D.J
Published: March 2007

Real-time dynamic substructuring is a new component testing method for simulating the dynamics of complex engineering systems. The physical component is tested within a computer-generated ‘virtual’ environment using real-time control techniques. Delays in communication which occur between the component and the virtual environment can potentially destabilize the simulation. In this paper, the mechanism for this instability is examined using a beam-oscillator system as a case study. We will show how the stability and the amplitude response of the system change with the time delay. Numerical simulations of the reduced system as well as a full-delayed beam equation are performed. A series of experimental tests is carried out on a beam-oscillator system. Comparison of the theoretical, numerical and experimental results is presented and these agree remarkably well.
Enigmatic dual symbiosis in the excretory organ of
Nautilus macromphalus
(Cephalopoda: Nautiloidea)
Authors: Pernice Mathieu , Wetzel Silke , Gros Olivier , Boucher-Rodoni Renata , Dubilier Nicole
Published: March 2007

Symbiosis is an important driving force in metazoan evolution and the study of ancient lineages can provide an insight into the influence of symbiotic associations on morphological and physiological adaptations. In the ‘living fossil’
Nautilus
, bacterial associations are found in the highly specialized pericardial appendage. This organ is responsible for most of the excretory processes (ultrafiltration, reabsorption and secretion) and secretes an acidic ammonia-rich excretory fluid. In this study, we show that
Nautilus macromphalus
pericardial appendages harbour a high density of a β-proteobacterium and a coccoid spirochaete using transmission electron microscopy, comparative
16S
rRNA sequence analysis and fluorescence
in situ
hybridization (FISH). These two bacterial phylotypes are phylogenetically distant from any known bacteria, with ammonia-oxidizing bacteria as the closest relatives of the β-proteobacterium (above or equal to 87.5% sequence similarity) and marine
Spirochaeta
species as the closest relatives of the spirochaete (above or equal to 89.8% sequence similarity), and appear to be specific to
Nautilus
. FISH analyses showed that the symbionts occur in the baso-medial region of the pericardial villi where ultrafiltration and reabsorption processes take place, suggesting a symbiotic contribution to the excretory metabolism.
The adaptive value of sociality in mammalian groups
Authors: Silk Joan B
Published: March 2007

According to behavioural ecology theory, sociality evolves when the net benefits of close association with conspecifics exceed the costs. The nature and relative magnitude of the benefits and costs of sociality are expected to vary across species and habitats. When sociality is favoured, animals may form groups that range from small pair-bonded units to huge aggregations. The size and composition of social groups have diverse effects on morphology and behaviour, ranging from the extent of sexual dimorphism to brain size, and the structure of social relationships. This general argument implies that sociality has fitness consequences for individuals. However, for most mammalian species, especially long-lived animals like primates, there are sizable gaps in the chain of evidence that links sociality and social bonds to fitness outcomes. These gaps reflect the difficulty of quantifying the cumulative effects of behavioural interactions on fitness and the lack of information about the nature of social relationships among individuals in most taxa. Here, I review what is known about the reproductive consequences of sociality for mammals.
Radial scars/complex sclerosing lesions and malignancy in a screening programme: incidence and histological features revisited
Authors: Doyle E M , Banville N , Quinn C M , Flanagan F , O'Doherty A , Hill A D K , Kerin M J , Fitzpatrick P , Kennedy M
Published: March 2007

Aims:  Radial scars (RS) are benign entities, frequently identified on screening mammography, which may be associated with malignancy. Much debate has been generated with regard to the optimum management of RS. We present our experience of RS in the first 5 years of a screening programme. The aim was to evaluate (i) the incidence of atypia and malignancy and (ii) the value of the preoperative core biopsy. We also further characterize the histological features.

Methods and results:  One hundred and twenty‐five histologically confirmed cases of RS were reviewed (111 had preoperative biopsies). Thirty‐one (24.8%) patients had a final malignant diagnosis (11 with invasive malignancy) and 28 (22.4%) showed atypia (including lobular carcinoma in situ). In those with core biopsies and a final malignant diagnosis, 12 cases were categorized as B5 (41.3%), three as B4 (10.3%), 12 as B3 (41.3%) and two as B2 (7%). Common histological features included obliterated ducts and chronic inflammation with, less frequently, neural hyperplasia (16.8%) and perineural invasion (3.2%).

Conclusions:  The high incidence of atypia and malignancy identified in our study justifies our policy of removing all mammographically detected RS. We emphasize the utility of preoperative core biopsy evaluation in permitting one‐stage surgical therapy in those with B5 diagnoses.
Perspective: Masculinized dominant females in a cooperatively breeding species, a case of cross‐sexual transfer?
Authors: KETTERSON ELLEN D.
Published: March 2007

This issue of Molecular Ecology includes an exciting article by Aubin‐Horth et al. in which they examine behaviour, hormone levels, and gene expression in dominant and subordinate male and female cichlid fishes of the African species Neolamprologus pulcher. Their fascinating experiments take us one important step closer to an understanding of one of life's persistent mysteries: why males differ from females and how such differences develop and evolve.
Chemosensitivity of the human gastrointestinal tract in health and in disease
Authors: Tack J.
Published: March 2007

Abstract  Although visceral sensitivity in man comprises chemosensitivity, thermosensitivity and mechanosensitivity, only the latter has been intensively studied. Studies in health have aimed at characterising the type of mechanoreceptors involved in visceral mechanosensitivity,. Several authors have studied the prevalence and relevance to the symptom pattern of hypersensitivity to visceral balloon distention in patients with functional gastrointestinal disorders. Chemosensitivity of the gastrointestinal tract in man has received much less attention. In this issue of Neurogastroenterology and Motility, intraluminal application of capsaicin is described as a tool to study chemosensitivity of the proximal gastrointestinal tract. The authors report how activation of chemosensitive pathways induces symptoms that differ from those induced by activation of mechanosensitive pathways, and propose to use capsaicin as a tool to study the prevalence and role of hypersensitivity to visceral chemosensitivity in patients with functional gastrointestinal disorders. Our current knowledge of visceral chemosensitivity of the human gastrointestinal tract in health and in disease is reviewed, with a specific focus on the interaction between mechano‐ and chemosensitive pathways.
Chemical, physical and biological characteristics of Saladito Reservoir, Cienfuegos Province, Cuba
Authors: Averhoff Orlando Laíz , Gómez Ana Brito , Del Rey Eduardo Rodríguez , Aguiar Carmen Betancourt , Villazón Miguel Aguila
Published: March 2007

Saladito Reservoir, located in Cienfuegos Province in Cuba, lies in an intermediate position between tropical and subtropical climatic conditions. Although Cuba only had 13 reservoirs before 1959, the government has constructed 229 reservoirs since that time, with a total storage capacity of 8.81 km3, administered by the National Hydraulic Resources Institute. In 1995, it was proposed to use waste water from the Swinish Farm to fertilize small reservoirs, providing nitrogen and phosphorus to increase primary production in the reservoirs as a means of facilitating high fish production levels. Saladito Reservoir, with a hydrographic basin of 34.5 km2, a mean depth of 3.4 m and a water retention time of 2 years, was constructed as the final part of the wastewater treatment system for Swinish Farm in the Palmyra Municipality. The main objective of this study is to determine the level of eutrophication in the reservoir after it had received waste water from the Farm for 17 months, based on relevant biological (phytoplankton), chemical and physical indicators sampled at five stations on 22 and 23 May 1995. Based on the measured parameters, the concentration of dissolved salts was generally high, with calcium and bicarbonate being the dominant ions. The nitrite‐nitrogen and nitrate‐nitrogen concentrations were relatively low at the surface, increasing with depth, while the ammonium‐nitrogen concentrations were extremely high, likely related to the high organic content of the reservoir. The total phosphorus concentration also exhibited high values, indicating the possible existence of soluble phosphorus in a complex with iron, which would allow algae to assimilate it like phosphate. The water transparency, measured as Secchi disk, was 0.2 m at all sampling stations. The chlorophyll‐a concentration ranged from 111 µg L−1 in the surface water to 50 µg L−1 at the bottom depth. The phytoplankton cell counts identified 27 algal species contained in five classes. The dominant group was Cyanophyceae, with Oscillatoria sp. being the largest contribution to the reservoir biomass. Twenty‐seven taxa were present in the reservoir in concentrations of at least 1 mg m−3. The results of this study indicate that Saladito Reservoir is hyper‐eutrophic, based on its measured biomass (cell counts), and chlorophyll‐α, inorganic nitrogen and total phosphorus concentrations. The possible production of algal toxins from blue‐green algal growths also could be affecting the productivity of Saladito Reservoir.
Middle Managers' Divergent Strategic Activity: An Investigation of Multiple Measures of Network Centrality
Authors: Pappas James M. , Wooldridge Bill
Published: March 2007

abstract  Using a sample of 89 mid‐level managers in a US based urban hospital, this study investigates relationships among three measures of network centrality and managers' divergent strategic activity. While prior work has demonstrated a relationship between managers' boundary‐spanning responsibilities and strategic activity, inadequate attention has been paid to managers' internal network position. Drawing from established theory, we consider expected network flows associated with three elements of the strategic renewal process. From this, we hypothesize and test relationships among managers' divergent activity and three measures of network centrality. Our findings suggest specific relationships between alternative forms of network centrality and particular elements of the strategic renewal process. Consistent with existing research, the findings also show boundary‐spanning managers to be more strategically active than their non‐boundary‐spanning counterparts.
Inclusion of theory‐relevant moderators yield the same conclusions as Sedikides, Gaertner, and Vevea (2005): A meta‐analytical reply to Heine, Kitayama, and Hamamura (2007)
Authors: Sedikides Constantine , Gaertner Lowell , Vevea Jack L.
Published: March 2007

Heine, Kitayama and Hamamura (2007) attributed the Sedikides, Gaertner and Vevea (2005) findings to the exclusion of six papers. We report a meta‐analysis that includes those six papers. The Heine et al. conclusions are faulty, because of a misspecified meta‐analysis that failed to consider two moderators central to the theory. First, some of their effect sizes originated from studies that did not empirically validate comparison dimensions. Inclusion of this moderator evidences pancultural self‐enhancement: Westerners enhance more strongly on individualistic dimensions, Easterners on collectivistic dimensions. Second, some of their effect sizes were irrelevant to whether enhancement is correlated with dimension importance. Inclusion of this moderator evidences pancultural self‐enhancement: Both Westerners and Easterners enhance on personally important dimensions. The Sedikides et al. conclusions are valid: Tactical self‐enhancement is pancultural.
Family Emotional Processes and Adolescents' Adjustment
Authors: Stocker Clare M. , Richmond Melissa K. , Rhoades Galena K. , Kiang Lisa
Published: March 2007

This study examined associations between parents' emotion coaching and emotional expressiveness, and adolescents' internalizing and externalizing symptoms. The sample included 131 16‐year‐olds and their mothers and fathers. Adolescents completed an open‐ended interview about their parents' emotion coaching. Adolescents rated parents' negative emotional expressiveness, and parents and adolescents reported on adolescents' adjustment. Results indicated that mothers were more accepting and supportive of their children's expression of negative emotions than were fathers. Parents' coaching of emotions was associated with fewer adolescents' internalizing symptoms and was unrelated to their externalizing symptoms. Parents' negative emotional expressiveness was positively linked to adolescents' internalizing and externalizing symptoms. Parents' emotion coaching and negative emotional expressiveness explained unique variance in adolescents' internalizing symptoms. Results highlight the importance of the family's emotional climate for adolescents' well‐being.
Emotion Understanding in English‐ and Spanish‐speaking Preschoolers Enrolled in Head Start
Authors: Downs Andrew , Strand Paul , Cerna Sandra
Published: March 2007

Research assessing children's emotion understanding has increased over the past several years. Despite the proliferation of research, there have been few studies conducted examining the development of emotion understanding in children from diverse backgrounds. Further, there has been no research conducted examining the psychometric properties of emotion understanding measures when used with children from diverse backgrounds. A total of 597 preschool children from low‐income families enrolled in Head Start (248 Spanish‐speaking and 349 English‐speaking) were given an emotion understanding assessment in their native language at two sessions separated by six months. All children showed significant growth in emotion understanding abilities from time 1 to time 2, with English‐speaking children generally outperforming Spanish‐speaking children. The psychometric performance of the measure was analyzed for both English and Spanish samples and for English‐speaking children at different levels of language ability.
Representations of Parent–Child Alliances in Children's Family Drawings
Authors: Leon Kim , Wallace Tamar , Rudy Duane
Published: March 2007

The purpose of this study was to investigate relationships between children's representations of parent–child alliances (PCA) and their peer relationship quality, using a new scale that was developed to rate representations of PCA in children's family drawings. The parent–child alliance pattern is characterized by a relationship between parent and child that is stronger than the marital relationship. We used family drawings to assess children's (at the ages of 4–8 years) representations of alliances because it is often difficult for children to express their perceptions of family dynamics verbally. Children whose drawings were rated higher in PCA were rated lower in prosocial behavior and assertiveness and higher in social problems by their teachers. These relationships were stronger for boys than for girls.
Maquiladora Employment Dynamics in Nuevo Laredo
Authors: CAÑAS JESÚS , FULLERTON THOMAS M. , SMITH WM. DOYLE
Published: March 2007

ABSTRACT  The Nuevo Laredo maquiladora sector has grown enormously during the last two decades. The short‐term time series characteristics of this portion of the regional economy are analyzed in an attempt to quantify the trends underlying this remarkable performance. Parameter estimation is accomplished via linear transfer function (LTF) analysis. Data are drawn from the January 1990–December 2000 sample period. Empirical results indicate that real wage rates, maquiladora plants, U.S. industrial activity, and the real exchange rate of the peso play significant roles in determining month‐to‐month fluctuations in maquiladora employment. Furthermore, sub‐sample forecast simulation exercises are conducted as an additional means for verifying model reliability. Empirical results indicate that the forecasts generated with the LTF model are less accurate than those associated with a simple random walk procedure for twelve separate step‐length periods.
Remarkably different phylogeographic structure in two closely related lizard species in a zone of sympatry in south‐eastern Australia
Authors: Hodges K. M. , Rowell D. M. , Keogh J. S.
Published: March 2007

Phylogeographic structure is a product of a species' life history and dispersal patterns, geographic history, climatic history and chance. Comparative phylogeography, using carefully chosen model species, can highlight the relative contribution of each of these factors and identify common processes affecting communities. In this study we compare and contrast fine‐scale phylogeographic patterns in two ground‐dwelling species of water skink, Eulamprus heatwolei and Eulamprus tympanum, from the biogeographically well‐characterized Tallaganda region in south‐eastern Australia, and compare them against data from a number of invertebrate species from the same region. Using variation in mitochondrial sequence, we have uncovered dramatically different biogeographic histories for the two species, despite their marked behavioural and morphological similarity. Eulamprus tympanum shows an average corrected sequence divergence of 0.014 and patterns of geographic variation in haplotypes consistent with historical vegetational changes resulting from past glaciation cycles. In contrast, E. heatwolei shows an average divergence of only 0.0075, and geographic structure that reflects a recent and rapid colonization, perhaps following an ice age local extinction. These two contrasting patterns of variation have also been identified in invertebrate taxa as disparate as collembolans and spiders; these species show either deep structure, associated with local persistence, or little variation of structure, which we attribute to recent extinction and re‐colonization. We argue that historical persistence versus extinction is a consequence of (often minor) differences in lifestyle and local habitat preference.
Isolation and characterization of polymorphic microsatellite loci in Asiatic sand sedge, Carex kobomugi Ohwi (Cyperaceae)
Authors: OHSAKO TAKANORI , YAMANE KYOKO
Published: March 2007

Fourteen polymorphic microsatellite loci were isolated from Asiatic sand sedge, Carex kobomugi Ohwi (Cyperaceae), a clonal perennial herb predominant in sandy coast vegetation in Japan. Polymorphism was surveyed for 24 ramets within a single population and for eight distinct individuals from six populations. Within a population, between two and eight alleles were found per locus, and expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.041 to 0.720. Among populations, a higher level of polymorphism was observed. The microsatellite loci were shown to be useful for the study of spatial genetic structure at fine scale and genetic differentiation among populations.
Bionomics and morphological and molecular characterization of Elasmus schmitti and Baryscapus elasmi (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea, Eulophidae), parasitoids associated with a paper wasp, Polistes dominulus (Vespoidea, Vespidae)
Authors: GUMOVSKY Alex , RUSINA Lidiya , FIRMAN Lesya
Published: March 2007

Elasmus schmitti and Baryscapus elasmi have been recorded in southern Ukraine as gregarious parasitoids in the nests of the paper wasps Polistes dominulus and Polistes nimphus. Polistes dominulus nests infested with E. schmitti were less productive than uninfested nests in only one year (2004) of the three years of the present study, when an increase in the host population size occurred. Females of E. schmitti are synovigenic, and they lay their eggs on the skins of P. dominulus last instar larvae, without paralyzing the host. Rather, the parasitoid larvae feed on young host pupae. The pupae of E. schmitti are isolated from the host remnants by a thin fecal partition as in Elasmus polistis and Elasmus japonicus, other paper wasp parasitoids. Baryscapus elasmi is a pupal endoparasitoid of E. schmitti. The females of B. elasmi emerge without mature eggs in their ovaries and mate with males. They penetrate the paper wasp’s cells with their ovipositor and feed on the extracted hemolymph exudate. Pupation of B. elasmi occurs inside or outside the pupa of the host, E. schmitti. If inside, then the cranial end of the pupa and the adult emergence hole of B. elasmi are situated in the caudal ends of the pupae of their hosts. Comparative notes and illustrations on the morphology of adults are provided, and DNA sequences of three genes (nuclear 28S D2 rDNA, mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I, and mitochondrial cytochrome b) were obtained for both parasitoid species. The similarity of the 28S D2 sequences of E. schmitti and E. polistis relative to other available Elasmus sequences suggests a single origin of parasitism on paper wasps in this genus.
Genus Amiota Loew (Diptera: Drosophilidae) from the Qinling mountain system, central China
Authors: XU Miaofeng , GAO Jianjun , CHEN Hongwei
Published: March 2007

Twenty Amiota species are reported from the Qinling mountain system, central China, with descriptions of four new species: A. albidipuncta Xu and Chen sp. nov., A. brunneifemoralis Xu and Chen sp. nov., A. flavipes Xu and Chen sp. nov., and A. setitibia Xu and Chen sp. nov. The relevant parts of previous keys to species of the genus Amiota are modified to cover the four new species. A faunal comparison among several areas in East and South‐East Asia reveals three biogeographic realms of the Amiota fauna: South‐East Asia, south China and the east Palearctic. The species composition of the Qinling area is most similar to that of south‐eastern China and secondly to that of the Hengduan Mountains area, these three areas forming together the south China realm. Excepting the four new species endemic to the Qinling mountain system, seven of the 16 known species are distributed in both the Oriental and Palearctic regions, but the remaining nine species are restricted to the Oriental region, with the northern limits of their distributions in the Qinling mountain system. This suggests the importance of this mountain range as a biogeographic barrier for the genus Amiota as well as other organisms.
Discovery of the genusSuhpalacsaLefèbvre (Neuroptera: Ascalaphidae: Ascalaphinae) in Japan, with description of a new species
Authors: SEKIMOTO Shigeyuki , YOSHIZAWA Kazunori
Published: March 2007

Suhpalacsa iriomotensissp. nov. (Neuroptera: Ascalaphidae: Ascalaphinae), is described from Iriomotejima Island, Japan. This new species can be easily distinguished from other species of the genus by the unique ventrolateral prominences of the male ectoproct. This is the first record of the genusSuhpalacsafrom Japan. The morphology of the male ectoproct and the monophyly ofSuhpalacsaare discussed briefly.
The Anticonvulsant Activity of Acetone, the Major Ketone Body in the Ketogenic Diet, Is Not Dependent on Its Metabolites Acetol, 1,2‐Propanediol, Methylglyoxal, or Pyruvic Acid
Authors: Gasior Maciej , French Amy , Joy Michelle T. , Tang Rebecca S. , Hartman Adam L. , Rogawski Michael A.
Published: March 2007

Summary:  Background: Acetone, one of the principal ketone bodies elevated during treatment with the ketogenic diet, exhibits anticonvulsant properties that may contribute to the seizure protection conferred by the diet. The anticonvulsant mechanism of acetone is unknown, but it is metabolized to several bioactive substances that could play a role.

Methods: Acetone and its major metabolites—acetol, 1,2‐propanediol, methylglyoxal, and pyruvic acid—were assessed for anticonvulsant activity in two mouse seizure models. Various doses of the substances administered intraperitoneally were characterized for their ability to elevate the threshold for clonic seizures induced by intravenous infusion of pentylenetetrazol (PTZ) and for protection against tonic seizures induced by subcutaneous bolus administration of 4‐aminopyridine (4‐AP). The inverted‐screen test was used to assess acute neurological toxicity.

Results: Acetone (1–32 mmol/kg, i.p.), in a dose‐dependent fashion, elevated the PTZ threshold and conferred protection against 4‐AP seizures (ED50, 26.3 mmol/kg). Effective doses of acetone (10–32 mmol/kg) did not cause motor impairment in the inverted‐screen test (TD50, 45.7 mmol/kg). In doses 10‐fold greater than the minimally effective dose of acetone (3.2 mmol/kg), the metabolites acetol, 1,2‐propanediol, and pyruvic acid were inactive in the PTZ model. At higher doses that produced motor impairment, acetol and 1,2‐propanediol (but not pyruvic acid) did elevate the PTZ threshold. Methylglyoxal had both proconvulsant and anticonvulsant actions, and had substantial toxicity, producing respiratory distress, motor impairment, and death. None of the acetone metabolites protected against 4‐AP seizures.

Conclusions: This study confirms the broad‐spectrum anticonvulsant properties of acetone and indicates that the seizure protection conferred is unlikely to result from its major metabolic products.
Development of Food Safety Psychosocial Questionnaires for Young Adults
Authors: Byrd‐Bredbenner C. , Wheatley V. , Schaffner D. , Bruhn C. , Blalock L. , Maurer J.
Published: March 2007

ABSTRACT:  Food mishandling is thought to be more acute among young adults; yet little is known about why they may engage in risky food handling behaviors. The purpose of this study was to create valid, reliable instruments for assessing key food safety psychosocial measures. Development of the measures began by examining published studies and behavior change theories to identify the psychosocial factors associated with personal health choices and 3 psychosocial factors were identified: beliefs, locus of control, and self‐efficacy. Development of items for the belief questionnaire began by identifying the belief constructs that could provide insight into how food safety behavior change programs should be framed to evoke improved behaviors and drafting items. The locus of control questionnaire was modeled after the Health Locus of Control Questionnaire. Self‐efficacy questionnaire development included defining self‐efficacy, identifying environmental contexts affecting self‐efficacy, and constructing an item pool. The questionnaires were pretested with young adults (n= 180) and refined. A pilot test (n= 77) was conducted to further refine the beliefs and self‐efficacy questionnaires. Finally, young adults (n= 4343, mean age 19.9 ± 1.7 SD y) from 21 universities and colleges across the country completed the questionnaires. Analysis of their responses revealed that these questionnaires met or exceeded standards indicative of high‐quality psychosocial food safety measures. These questionnaires should be useful in generating baseline data from adults as well as establishing the value of these measures in assessing the effectiveness of food safety interventions.
Multiple and Stepwise Interactions Between Coatomer and ADP‐Ribosylation Factor‐1 (Arf1)‐GTP
Authors: Sun Zhe , Anderl Frank , Fröhlich Kathrin , Zhao Liyun , Hanke Stefan , Brügger Britta , Wieland Felix , Béthune Julien
Published: March 2007

The small GTPase ADP‐ribosylation factor‐1 (Arf1) plays a key role in the formation of coat protein I (COP I)‐coated vesicles. Upon recruitment to the donor Golgi membrane by interaction with dimeric p24 proteins, Arf1’s GDP is exchanged for GTP. Arf1‐GTP then dissociates from p24, and together with other Golgi membrane proteins, it recruits coatomer, the heptameric coat protein complex of COP I vesicles, from the cytosol. In this process, Arf1 was shown to specifically interact with the coatomer β and γ‐COP subunits through its switch I region, and with ɛ‐COP. Here, we mapped the interaction of the Arf1‐GTP switch I region to the trunk domains of β and γ‐COP. Site‐directed photolabeling at position 167 in the C‐terminal helix of Arf1 revealed a novel interaction with coatomer via a putative longin domain of δ‐COP. Thus, coatomer is linked to the Golgi through multiple interfaces with membrane‐bound Arf1‐GTP. These interactions are located within the core, adaptor‐like domain of coatomer, indicating an organizational similarity between the COP I coat and clathrin adaptor complexes.
Downregulation of mu opioid receptor by RNA interference in the ventral tegmental area reduces ethanol consumption in mice
Authors: Lasek A. W. , Janak P. H. , He L. , Whistler J. L. , Heberlein U.
Published: March 2007

Pharmacological and genetic studies have implicated the mu opioid receptor (MOR) in the regulation of ethanol intake in animal models and humans. Non‐specific antagonists of opioid receptors have been shown to affect ethanol consumption when infused directly into the ventral tegmental area (VTA) of rats. However, administration of MOR‐selective antagonists into the VTA has yielded mixed results. We used RNA interference (RNAi) to specifically decrease levels of MOR messenger RNA in the VTA of mice and examined the effect on ethanol consumption in a two‐bottle choice paradigm. Mice were injected in the VTA with lentivirus expressing either a small hairpin RNA (shRNA) targeting MOR or a control shRNA. One week after virus injection, mice were examined for ethanol consumption in a two‐bottle choice experiment with increasing concentrations of ethanol over the course of 1 month. Expression of an shRNA targeting MOR in the VTA led to a significant reduction in ethanol consumption. These results strengthen the hypothesis that MOR in the VTA is one of the key brain substrates mediating alcohol consumption. The RNAi combined with lentiviral delivery can be used successfully in brain to effect a sustained reduction in expression of specific genes for behavioral analysis.
Hand‐rearing and reintroduction of an infant White‐crowned mangabeyCercocebus atys lunulatusat Flamingo Land Zoo, Malton, UK
Authors: CROSS D.
Published: March 2007

A ♀ White‐crowned mangabeyCercocebus atys lunulatuswas born at Flamingo Land Zoo, Malton, UK, on 11 April 2005. On day of birth the infant was removed for hand‐rearing after it sustained injuries from rough handling by its mother. The infant was hand‐reared until 10 May when preliminary visual, olfactory, auditory and limited tactile contact was allowed with the adults. The infant continued to be hand‐reared in full view of the adults until 15 June when the process of reintroduction was initiated. Full reintegration occurred on 15 July 2005. The processes used to hand‐rear this infant White‐crowned mangabey and successfully reintroduce it to its natal group are described in this paper.
Sexual reproduction of scleractinian corals in public aquariums: current status and future perspectives
Authors: PETERSEN D. , FALCATO J. , GILLES P. , JONES R.
Published: March 2007

A multiple‐choice questionnaire was distributed, mainly via the list servers of the EUAC (European Union of Aquarium Curators) Coral ASP (Animal Sustainability Program) and AquaticInfo, to evaluate the potential of today's aquariums for the captive breeding of scleractinian corals. Sixteen (including the temperate coral Astroides calycularis) of, in total, 24 species (nine families) were recorded as showing reproductive behaviour that could establish an F1 generation. Broadcast spawners (13 species) reproduced mainly in open systems under natural light conditions (in all cases natural moonlight exposure), whereas brooders (11 species) showed less sensitivity towards certain environmental factors known to trigger reproduction in field populations (here moonlight and temperature fluctuations). Except for a few recruits of Galaxea fascicularis and Echinopora lamellosa maintained in a 750 000 litre system, recruits of broadcast spawners could be exclusively obtained by manipulating fertilization and settlement. Brooding corals established generally less than 100 recruits if settlement was not enhanced experimentally. When reproduction was manipulated, it enhanced reproductive success, in most cases to above 100 recruits. We assume that more species, especially brooders, might reproduce in public aquariums without being noticed by the staff owing to the lack of recruitment and of experimental design (larval collection). This study illustrates the great potential for public aquariums to reproduce corals sexually. However, more investigation is necessary to optimize reproductive success and possibly to broaden the spectrum of species reproduced in public aquariums.