bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human synapsin I mediates the function of nuclear respiratory factor 1 in neurite outgrowth in neuroblastoma IMR‐32 cells
Authors: Wang Jen‐Ling , Chang Wen‐Teng , Tong Chih‐Wei , Kohno Kimitoshi , Huang A‐Min
Published: March 2009

Nuclear respiratory factor (NRF)‐1 is a transcription factor with a novel function in neurite outgrowth. Synapsin I protein is a well‐known phosphoprotein in neuronal terminals and has been implicated in neuronal differentiation. Human synapsin I gene promoter has a putative NRF‐1 responsive element (NRE), but it is not known whether this NRE is functional. We hypothesized that synapsin I is downstream of NRF‐1 and mediates its function in neurite outgrowth. Gel electrophoretic mobility shift assays, chromatin immunoprecipitation, site‐directed mutagenesis, and promoter studies indicated that NRF‐1 is a positive regulator of synapsin I promoter. Exogenous NRF‐1 overexpression increased synapsin I protein levels in IMR‐32 and HEK293T cells. Serum deprivation, which induces neurite outgrowth in IMR‐32 cells, increased the binding activity of NRF‐1 to synapsin I NRE and induced alternating synapsin I protein expression. Down‐regulating synapsin I expression markedly decreased the percentage of neurite‐bearing cells and the length of the longest neurite in IMR‐32 cells that stably or transiently overexpressed NRF‐1. We conclude that the human synapsin I gene is positively regulated by NRF‐1 and mediates the function of NRF‐1 in neurite outgrowth. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Shotgun mass spectrometry analysis of the human thalamus proteome
Authors: Martins‐de‐Souza Daniel , Maccarrone Giuseppina , Reckow Stefan , Falkai Peter , Schmitt Andrea , Turck Christoph W.
Published: March 2009

The thalamus plays pivotal roles in the central nervous system as relay center for organizing information, such as auditory and visual senses from diverse brain regions and their re‐distribution to the cerebral cortex. Brain diseases including schizophrenia, Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, and bipolar disorder have been associated with the thalamus. We performed a shotgun proteome analysis of iTRAQ‐labeled tryptic peptides of human mediodorsal thalamus protein extracts coming from two healthy male and two healthy female subjects. The shotgun workflow consisted of IEF fractionation, RP LC and MALDI‐TOF/TOF mass spectrometric analysis. We were able to identify 542 proteins that are involved in different biological processes and from diverse cellular localizations. A considerable fraction of these proteins had not been identified by traditional proteomics methods such as 2‐DE. The thalamus proteome contributes to the knowledge of the human brain proteome and future applications in basic and clinical research.
Self‐reported health and physician diagnosed illnesses in women with posttraumatic stress disorder and major depressive disorder
Authors: Calhoun Patrick S. , Wiley Matthew , Dennis Michelle F. , Beckham Jean C.
Published: March 2009

Posttraumatic stress disorder has been associated with poor physical health. Depression is also associated with poor health, and may be responsible for the apparent relationship between PTSD and health outcomes. The current study examined self‐reported and physician diagnosed medical morbidity in women. Women with PTSD alone were compared to three other groups of women: women with PTSD and comorbid major depressive disorder (MDD), women with MDD only, or women with neither diagnosis (comparison group). Results suggest that PTSD, with or without MDD, is associated with poor health in women. Posttraumatic stress disorder severity was related to health complaints beyond the effects of both somatization and depressive symptoms among women with PTSD. Findings and implications are discussed in relation to previous research in the area.
Soliton solutions of the Toda hierarchy on quasi‐periodic backgrounds revisited
Authors: Egorova Iryna , Michor Johanna , Teschl Gerald
Published: March 2009

We investigate soliton solutions of the Toda hierarchy on a quasi‐periodic finite‐gap background by means of the double commutation method and the inverse scattering transform. In particular, we compute the phase shift caused by a soliton on a quasi‐periodic finite‐gap background. Furthermore, we consider short range perturbations via scattering theory. We give a full description of the effect of the double commutation method on the scattering data and establish the inverse scattering transform in this setting (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
On rank variation of block matrices generated by Nevanlinna matrix functions
Authors: Yong‐Jian Hu , Gong‐Ning Chen
Published: March 2009

Within the framework of the multiple Nevanlinna–Pick matrix interpolation and its related matrix moment problem, we study the rank of block moment matrices of various kinds, generalized block Pick matrices and generalized block Loewner matrices, as well as their Potapov modifications, generated by Nevanlinna matrix functions, and derive statements either on rank (or inertia) invariance in different senses or on rank variation of such types of block matrices (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Unitary reduction for the two‐dimensional Schrödinger operator with strong magnetic field
Authors: Eckstein Andrei
Published: March 2009

The spectrum of the two‐dimensional Schrödinger operator with strong magnetic field and electric potential is contained in a union of intervals centered on the Landau levels. The study of the spectrum in any of these intervals is reduced by unitary equivalence to the study of a one‐dimensional operator. We give a precise description of this operator in the case when the electric potential is periodic and analytic in a strip (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Denervation and reinnervation of adult skeletal muscle modulate mRNA expression of neuregulin‐1 and ErbB receptors
Authors: Nicolino Silvia , Panetto Arianna , Raimondo Stefania , Gambarotta Giovanna , Guzzini Matteo , Fornaro Michele , Battiston Bruno , Tos Perluigi , Geuna Stefano , Perroteau Isabelle
Published: March 2009

Skeletal muscle atrophy represents one of the main causes of poor outcome of microsurgical nerve reconstruction. Recent studies have pointed to the importance of the neuregulin/ErbB signaling pathway in the development and regeneration of the neuromuscular system. Here, we show by immunohistochemistry, RT‐PCR, and Western blotting analyses, in an in vivo model of adult skeletal muscle denervation/reinnervation, that expression of Neuregulin1 (NRG1) and ErbB receptors is regulated by the innervation condition. We found out that a significant upregulation of the α‐, but not β‐, isoform of NRG1, as well as of ErbB2, ErbB3, and ErbB4‐cyt1 isoform occurs as a consequence of denervation of flexor digitorum muscles of the rat forelimb by median nerve transection. Moreover, after tubulization median nerve repair, and consequent muscle reinnervation, all messengers of the NRG1/ErbB system are promptly downregulated. Therefore, our results suggest the existence of a α‐NRG1‐mediated autocrine and/or paracrine trophic loop in skeletal muscles that is activated after denervation and promptly deactivated after nerve reconstruction. This myotrophic loop is a promising therapeutic target for the prevention of muscle atrophy. Yet, the recent demonstration of a similar α‐NRG1‐mediated gliotrophic loop in denervated Schwann cells provides a possible explanation for the effectiveness of muscle conduits for tubulization nerve repair. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2009.
Comparison of electromyographic responses for the superficial quadriceps muscles: Cycle versus knee‐extensor ergometry
Authors: Malek Moh H. , Coburn Jared W. , Tedjasaputra Vince
Published: March 2009

The purpose of this study was to compare the electromyographic (EMG) amplitude and mean power frequency (MPF) versus power output relationships for the three superficial quadriceps muscles during incremental cycle (CE) and knee‐extensor (KE) ergometry in the same subjects. Eight men performed incremental CE and KE tests to exhaustion. Surface EMG signals were recorded simultaneously from the vastus lateralis (VL), rectus femoris (RF), and vastus medialis (VM). Polynomial regression analyses on a subject‐by‐subject basis indicated that the relationship between EMG amplitude versus power output was best‐fit with either a linear, quadratic, or cubic model for CE, whereas the relationship was best‐fit with a linear model for all subjects for the KE test. No consistent relationship was found for EMG MPF within subjects and between muscle groups for CE or KE. Compared with CE, however, the EMG amplitude during KE exercise was, on average, approximately 87% and 30% higher for the RF and VM muscles, respectively. These results suggest that KE exercise may be a better mode of examining EMG amplitude in the quadriceps muscle during incremental exercise than traditional CE. Muscle Nerve, 2009
“We have to stop again?!”: The impact of overactive bladder on family members
Authors: Coyne Karin S. , Matza Louis S. , Brewster‐Jordan Jessica
Published: March 2009

Aims

Overactive bladder (OAB), characterized by urinary urgency, with or without incontinence, and urinary frequency and nocturia, has a significant impact on patients' lives. Given the social context inherent in OAB, the purpose of this study was to identify issues faced by OAB family members.

Methods

Incontinent OAB patients and their family members were recruited from a urology clinic. Continent OAB family members were recruited via newspaper advertisements. Focus groups were conducted to evaluate family impact; content analysis was used to analyze data.

Results

Participants included 14 dyads consisting of incontinent OAB patients and their family members (partners or daughters) and 17 continent OAB family members. Urinary frequency was the most bothersome symptom for family members as family members reported that their partners' urinary frequency significantly altered their lives by limiting activities (e.g., travel, social activities) and impacting time because of persistent, and urgent, need to find a toilet. Nocturia caused sleep disruption and fatigue for both patients and their partners. Family members indicated that their partner's OAB fostered significant emotions including embarrassment, anxiety, anger, worry, frustration, and sympathy. Several spouses reported that OAB limited their sexual interactions and intimacy.

Conclusions

OAB has a significant impact on OAB patients' family members, regardless of whether the patient and family member live together. Consequently, it is important to assess the family impact of symptomatic conditions such as OAB to fully understand the outcomes of disease and treatment. Neurourol. Urodynam. 28:969–975, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Disruption‐management strategies for short life‐cycle products
Authors: Tomlin Brian
Published: March 2009

Supplier diversification, contingent sourcing, and demand switching (whereby a firm shifts customers to a different product if their preferred product is unavailable), are key building blocks of a disruption‐management strategy for firms that sell multiple products over a single season. In this article, we evaluate 12 possible disruption‐management strategies (combinations of the basic building‐block tactics) in the context of a two‐product newsvendor. We investigate the influence of nine attributes of the firm, its supplier(s), and its products on the firs preference for the various strategies. These attributes include supplier reliability, supplier failure correlation, payment responsibility in the event of a supply failure, product contribution margin, product substitutability, demand uncertainties and correlation, and the decision makes risk aversion. Our results show that contingent sourcing is preferred to supplier diversification as the supply risk (failure probability) increases, but diversification is preferred to contingent sourcing as the demand risk (demand uncertainty) increases. We find that demand switching is not effective at managing supply risk if the products are sourced from the same set of suppliers. Demand switching is effective at managing demand risk and so can be preferred to the other tactics if supply risk is low. Risk aversion makes contingent sourcing preferable over a wider set of supply and demand‐risk combinations. We also find a two‐tactic strategy provides almost the same benefit as a three‐tactic strategy for most reasonable supply and demand‐risk combinations. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics, 2009
Stable isotopes and maize consumption in central western Argentina
Authors: Gil A. F. , Neme G. A. , Tykot R. H. , Novellino P. , Cortegoso V. , Durán V.
Published: March 2009

In this paper we present stable isotope information (δ13C in bone collagen and apatite, and δ15N) in order to discuss the significance of maize consumption in the human diets of central western Argentina. We also contribute bioanthropological information based on the study of caries, hypoplasia, cribra orbitalia and dental abscess frequencies. This study shows a large variability in the significance of C4 resources (e.g. maize) during the last 2500 years, and on this basis we propose that maize was significant in the human diet mainly after 1000 yrs BP. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Isotopic archaeology in the western Pampas (Argentina): preliminary results and perspectives
Authors: Berón M. A. , Luna L. H. , Barberena R.
Published: March 2009

Different lines of archaeological research have been developed in order to increase our knowledge of the history of the hunter‐gatherer societies that inhabited the western Pampas of central Argentina, South America, during the Late Holocene. Recently, stable isotope data from human remains have been included. This paper presents the first group of δ13C and δ15N results obtained for this region. On this basis we identify spatial and chronological patterns that may have interesting implications at the levels of spatial organisation and temporal changes. Then, we evaluate the existence of correlations with other lines of archaeological evidence. Finally, we propose an agenda for future work including the generation of a robust regional isotopic ecology that will provide the context for the development of specific dietary reconstructions. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fertility preservation medicine: A new field in the care of young cancer survivors
Authors: Oktay Kutluk , Oktem Ozgur
Published: March 2009

Treatment modalities for numerous oncological and non‐oncological conditions result in gonadal insufficiency and infertility. Furthermore, pelvic‐abdominal radiation may result in uterine damage resulting in poor reproductive outcomes such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and spontaneous abortion in adult survivors of childhood cancers. In response to the recognition of the impact of cancer treatments on fertility, several fertility preservation techniques have been developed. In prepubertal children, fertility preservation options are usually limited to ovarian cryopreservation because of sexual immaturity, but oocyte freezing can be performed in adolescent children. Two prospective randomized studies showed no benefit of gonadal suppression with GnRH analogs to preserve gonadal function and thus this treatment should not be recommended. For adult survivors of childhood cancer who experienced reproductive failure, third party reproduction techniques are highly successful. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;53:267–273. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ionic liquid (1‐methyl 3‐propyl imidazolium iodide) with polymer electrolyte for DSSC application
Authors: Singh Pramod K. , Kim Kang‐Wook , Rhee Hee‐Woo
Published: March 2009

Polymer electrolytes based on poly(ethylene oxide) and ionic liquid (IL), 1‐methyl 3‐propyl imidazolium iodide (PMII) were prepared in film form by solution casting technique. Atomic force microscope (AFM) picture confirms the high surface roughness of films. The maximum ionic conductivity of the polymer/IL/I2 electrolyte was 3.56 × 10−4 S cm−1 at room temperature. Doping of iodine in humid atmosphere formed “fractal like structure” which affected ionic conductivity. The dye‐sensitized solar cell (DSSC) using maximum ionic conductivity solid film at different humidity shows promising results. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2009. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Variable‐temperature FTIR studies on thermal stability of hydrogen bonding in nylon 6/mesoporous silica nanocomposite
Authors: Li Lanjie , Yang Guisheng
Published: March 2009

BACKGROUND: Hydrogen bonding is very important in determining the properties of nylons. Introducing nanofillers that can form hydrogen bonds with amide groups at the interfaces may result in a different hydrogen bonding stability. Understanding the extent of the difference in hydrogen bonding between nylons and their nanocomposites and the mechanisms involved is valuable for explaining the origin of the property improvement of nanocomposites at the molecular level.

RESULTS: Hydrogen bonding in a nylon 6/mesoporous silica nanocomposite (NMSN) was investigated using variable‐temperature Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy from 30 to 240 °C, and the results were compared with those for nylon 6 (N6). Emphasis was placed on the analysis of hydrogen bonded NH stretching and amide I modes. With increasing temperature, the hydrogen bonding in NMSN attenuated and dissociated at much lower rate than in N6. Also, the fraction of free carbonyl groups of NMSN in the melt state was much smaller than that of N6. The nanodispersion and mesoporous structure of silica were confirmed using atomic force microscopy and transmission electron microscopy.

CONCLUSION: The incorporation of mesoporous silica increases considerably the thermal stability of hydrogen bonding in NMSN, which can be attributed to the interface interaction and the constraining effect of silica on the chain mobility of N6. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Can the Distress Thermometer be improved by additional mood domains? Part II. What is the optimal combination of Emotion Thermometers?
Authors: Mitchell Alex J. , Baker‐Glenn Elena A. , Park Bert , Granger Lorraine , Symonds Paul
Published: March 2009

Purpose: To examine the added value of an algorithmic combination of visual‐analogue thermometers compared with the Distress Thermometer (DT) when attempting to detect depression, anxiety or distress in early cancer.

Methods: We report Classification and Regression Tree and logistic regression analyses of the new five‐domain Emotion Thermometers tool. This is a combination of five visual‐analogue scales in the form of four mood domains (distress, anxiety, depression, anger) as well as need for help. 130 patients attending for their first chemotherapy treatment were assessed. We calculated optimal accuracy for each domain alone and in combination against several criterion standards.

Results: When attempting to diagnose depression the Depression Thermometer (DepT) used alone was the optimal approach, but when attempting to detect broadly defined distress or anxiety then a combination of thermometers was most accurate. The DepT was significantly more accurate in detecting depression than the DT. For broadly defined distress a combination of depression, anger and help thermometers was more accurate than the DT alone. For anxiety, while the anxiety thermometer (AnxT) improves upon the DT alone, a combination of the DepT and AnxT are optimal. In each case the optimal strategy allowed the detection of at least an additional 9% of individuals. However, combinations are more laborious to score. In settings where the simplest possible option is preferred the most accurate single thermometer might be preferable as a first stage assessment.

Conclusion: The DT can be improved by specific combinations of simple thermometers that incorporate depression, anxiety, anger and help. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Role of the VEGFR3/VEGFD receptor axis in TGFβ1 activation of primary prostate cell lines
Authors: Goodyear S.M. , Kheyfets S.B. , Garcia F.U. , Stearns M.E.
Published: March 2009

BACKGROUND

Reports indicate that vascular endothelial growth factor receptor type 3 (VEGFR3) regulates cellular functions such as invasion, proliferation, and chemo‐resistance. However, the exact function of the VEGFR3 signaling axis in prostate epithelial cells is poorly characterized.

METHODS

The goal of this study was to evaluate whether TGFβ1 in combination with VEGFD can promote pre‐malignant invasive activities of intermediate basal cells (IBC‐10a) isolated from human prostate cancer (Gleason score 6).

RESULTS

hTERT immortalized IBC‐10a cells normally grew as confluent “cobblestoned” monolayers, but treatment with TGFβ1 (10 ng/ml for 2–6 hr) dissociated the cell–cell junctions and induced VEGFR3 translocation to the cell surface. This event was not inhibited by 10 µM cycloheximide or puromycin, indicating transcription and protein synthesis were not required. We further discovered that TGFβ1 in combination with VEGFD induced a significant increase in the invasive activity of IBC‐10a cells (>26% and 53% after 24 and 48 hr, respectively) in modified Boyden Chamber assays. TGFβRII receptor antibodies specifically blocked TGFβ1 induction of VEGFR3 translocation to the cell surface and blocked VEGFD‐induced invasion. Zymograms revealed that TGFβ1 (and not VEGFR3) stimulated the secretion of MMP‐2 and MMP‐9, presumably to promote cell invasion. The cell invasion assays confirmed that antibodies specific for TGFβII receptor, MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 and VEGFR3, independently blocked TGFβ1‐induced invasion.

CONCLUSIONS

For the first time, we have demonstrated the mechanism by which TGFβ1 stimulates VEGFD/VEGFR3 receptor axis activation leading to increased cell migration and invasion by primary intermediate basal cell cultures. Prostate 69: 982–990, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Regulation of cell survival by resveratrol involves inhibition of NFκB‐regulated gene expression in prostate cancer cells
Authors: Benitez Dixan A. , Hermoso Marcela A. , Pozo‐Guisado Eulalia , Fernández‐Salguero Pedro M. , Castellón Enrique A.
Published: March 2009

BACKGROUND

Polyphenols have been proposed as antitumoral agents. We have shown that resveratrol (RES) induced cell cycle arrest and promoted apoptosis in prostate cancer cells by inhibition of the PI3K pathway. The RES effects on NFκB activity in LNCaP cells (inducible NFκB), and PC‐3 cells (constitutive NFκB) are reported.

METHODS

Cells were treated with 1–150 µM of RES during 36 hr. NFκB subcellular localization was analyzed by western blot and immunofluorescence. IκBα was evaluated by immunoprecipitation followed by Western blot. Specific DNA binding of NFκB was determined by EMSA assays and NFκB‐mediated transcriptional activity by transient transfection with a luciferase gene reporter system.

RESULTS

RES induced a dose‐dependent cytoplasmic retention of NFκB mediated by IκBα in PC‐3 cells but not in LNCaP. RES‐induced inhibition of NFκB specific binding to DNA was more significant in PC‐3 cells. NFκB‐mediated transcriptional activity induced by EGF and TNFα were inhibited by RES in both cell lines. LY294002 mimicked RES effects on NFκB activity.

CONCLUSION

Antiproliferative and apoptotic effects of RES on human prostate cancer cells may be mediated by the inhibition of NFκB activity. This mechanism seems to be associated to RES‐induced PI3K inhibition. RES could have therapeutic potential for prostate cancer treatment. Prostate 69:1045–1054, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
In silico characterization of protein chimeras: Relating sequence and function within the same fold
Authors: Buske Fabian A. , Their Ricarda , Gillam Elizabeth M. J. , Bodén Mikael
Published: March 2009

The exploration of novel proteins via recombination of fragments derived from structurally homologous proteins has enormous potential for medicine and biotechnology. This modular exchange of sequence material puts novel activities, substrate specificities, and stability within reach of a semi‐random search. This article takes stock of the growing resource of experimentally characterized chimeric proteins within a homologous protein family to build sequence‐function models that can effectively guide the construction of new libraries. A novel framework for predicting structural viability of chimeric proteins, only assuming knowledge of their sequence and their parental structure, is presented. Removing a major barrier in previous work, the model processes any sequence that derives from parents with similar folds. The method naturally mixes test and training data from site‐directed recombination, DNA shuffling, or random mutagenesis experiments. We train a model from a site‐directed recombination library with state‐of‐the‐art prediction accuracy on hold‐out test data from the same experimental source and convincing performance on chimeras with a different origin. Specifically, the model is used to assess the structural viability of P450 chimeras deriving from proteins with only 18% sequence similarity to those used for model tuning. Proteins 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
DC characteristics and high frequency response of GaN nanowire metal‐oxide‐semiconductor field‐effect transistor
Authors: Yu Jeng‐Wei , Wu Han‐Min , Yeh Bo‐Chun , Peng Lung‐Han
Published: March 2009

We report selected site lateral growth of crystalline [11$ \bar 2 $0] GaN nanowire (NW) with high channel mobility of 1050 cm2/V‐s on SiO2/p‐Si. This scheme enables photolithographic fabrication of top‐gated GaN NW‐MOSFET of 60 nm dia. and 2 μm gate length. Device parameters with gm of 25 μS, saturation current of 90 μA, and cut‐off frequency fT at 14 GHz have been extracted. In an active load configuration of GaN NW‐MOSFET inverter we reported voltage gain of 2 and a high current on/off ratio of 104. These observations suggest promising functional diversification of the GaN NW‐MOSFET on the Si‐based CMOS platform for the sub‐50 nm technology nodes. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A novel GaN photonic crystal structure comprising nanopillars with inclined sidewalls
Authors: Fu Wai Yuen , Wong Kenneth Kin‐Yip , Choi Hoi Wai
Published: March 2009

We demonstrate a novel design of photonic bandgap structure on GaN created using a self‐assembly approach. Microsphere lithography was employed to generate a hexagonal‐close‐packed monolayer, which serves as an etch mask in the fabrication of the sidewalls‐inclined nanopillars. To produce a photonic bandgap in this photonic crystal structure, an inclined sidewall was introduced, instead of the conventional nanopillar structures with vertical sidewalls obtained from microsphere lithography. The structure was designed with plane‐wave‐expansion simulations and the results verified by optical transmission, whereby a pronounced transmission dip centered at 510 nm was observed. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Geiger mode simulation of GaN homojunction avalanche photodetectors
Authors: Sridharan Sriraaman , Yoder P. D. , Shen S. C. , Ryou J. H. , Dupuis R. D.
Published: March 2009

We investigate the Geiger mode operation of wurtzite GaN‐based homojunction avalanche photodiodes (APDs) via full‐band ensemble Monte Carlo charge transport simulation. Critical design parameters for photon counting applications are identified, and their influence on single photon detection efficiency (SPDE) is quantified. Simulations demonstrate simultaneous reduction in breakdown field strength and growth in SPDE with increasing active region thickness. We also report a significant increase in avalanche growth rate with reduction in active region thickness, and relate for the first time the characteristic time scale to the product of avalanche coefficients and saturated drift velocities. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Statisticians in European regulatory agencies
Authors: Skovlund Eva
Published: March 2009

The UK body of statisticians in the pharmaceutical industry, PSI, has called on heads of European regulatory agencies responsible for assessing applications for marketing authorizations for new medicines in the EU to employ full time statisticians. In order to assess the present situation a survey has been conducted to identify the number of agencies employing one or more full time statisticians. Out of 29 responding agencies, 12 employed one or more statisticians on a full time basis, whereas 17 did not. Among these 17, 7 involved external experts on a regular basis, 5 involved external statisticians on a case‐by‐case basis, whereas 5 never involved external statistical expertise. Failure to involve statisticians in the assessment of efficacy and safety of medicines does not automatically lead to reports of low quality or invalid assessment of benefit‐risk. However, in depth knowledge of statistical methodology is often necessary to uncover weaknesses and potentially biased efficacy estimates. This might be of importance for the final opinion on granting a marketing authorization, and statistical review should therefore be conducted by those who are professionally expert in the area. A positive trend toward an increased involvement of statistical expertise in the European network of regulatory agencies is observed. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The fragmentation test applied to adhesion measurements and microstructural characterization in plasma pre‐treated metallized plastic webs
Authors: Marras Luigi , Sbaizero Orfeo
Published: March 2009

A theoretical and experimental approach based on cracking analysis of stressed films (fragmentation test) has been applied to the study of interface dominant properties of metallized plastic flexible films. The test was found to be accurate for quantitative aluminium adhesion measurements and was used for an evaluation of the effect of different plasma pre‐treatments on the final properties of the metallized poly(ethylene) films. The test proved to be a powerful method for better understanding both the adhesion and the mechanical and microstructural properties of thin metal films. A clear improvement of aluminium adhesion was demonstrated for increasing plasma pre‐treatment times up to 0.8 s, and microstructural features were deduced from the test data. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Shaping Colloidal Rutile into Thermally Stable and Porous Mesoscopic Titania Balls
Authors: Yelamanchili Ram Sai , Lu Yan , Lunkenbein Thomas , Miyajima Nobuyoshi , Yan Li‐Tang , Ballauff Matthias , Breu Josef
Published: March 2009

High crystallinity and controlled porosity are advantageous for many applications such as energy conversion and power generation. Despite many efforts in the last decades, the direct synthesis of organic–inorganic composite materials with crystalline transition metal oxides is still a major challenge. In general, molecules serve as inorganic precursors and heat treatment is required to convert as‐synthesized amorphous composites to stable crystalline materials. Herein, an alternative approach to the direct synthesis of crystalline polymer–metal oxide composites by using a spherical polyelectrolyte brush as the template system is presented. Pre‐synthesized electrostatically stabilized rutile nanocrystals that carry a positive surface charge are used as inorganic precursors. In this approach, the strong Coulomb interactions between anionic polyelectrolyte brush chains and cationic crystalline rutile colloids, whose surfaces are not capped and therefore reactive, are the key factors for the organic–inorganic crystalline composite formation. Stepwise calcination first under argon and followed with a second calcination in air lead to the complete removal of the polymer template without collapse and porous rutile balls are obtained. The results suggest that any colloids that carry a surface charge might serve as inorganic precursors when charged templates are used. It is expected that this hierarchical route for structuring oxides at the mesoscale is generally applicable.
Christian privilege, history, and trends in U.S. religion
Authors: Fairchild Ellen E.
Published: March 2009

This chapter defines and discusses Christian privilege, incorporates the current state of religious flux in the United States, and offers some implications for practice as student affairs practitioners work with today's college students.
Difficult dialogues at the intersections of race, culture, and religion
Authors: Stewart Dafina Lazarus , Lozano Adele
Published: March 2009

This chapter grapples with the intersections of race, culture, and religion and explores how experiences in a shared religion can be different when viewed through the lens of race and culture. Practical strategies are provided for ways student affairs practitioners can facilitate difficult dialogues around Christian privilege in concert with issues related to racial and cultural marginalization.
Invisible, marginalized, and stigmatized: Understanding and addressing the needs of atheist students
Authors: Goodman Kathleen M. , Mueller John A.
Published: March 2009

This chapter describes atheism in higher education and provides suggestions for student affairs practitioners interested in understanding and responding to the needs of atheist students.
A magnified beam algorithm to determine the coupling ratios of R/C coupled shear wall
Authors: Doran Bilge
Published: March 2009

The structural behaviour of a coupled shear wall (CSW) is greatly affected by the geometrical and mechanical properties of the coupling beams. The coupling ratio (r) is defined to represent the proportion of overturning moment resisted by each individual shear wall. The coupling ratio (r) is considered to be a key parameter in the nonlinear analysis and design of CSWs. In this study, the coupling ratios are determined on the basis of magnified beam analysis, using a statistical approach. An adequate number of CSWs have been selected with varying geometrical and mechanical properties, and the coupling ratios have been determined for each case using a magnified beam algorithm. The structural analyses have been also performed by the finite element modelling, and relationships for the estimation of the coupling ratios are provided using nonlinear regression analyses. The magnified beam approach adapted in this study is therefore proven to be capable of providing accurate and practical estimates for the coupling ratios of R/C CSWs. The results are quite promising for further research of any expanded data sets. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Virus Evolution and the Beginning
Authors: Andersson Sten
Published: March 2009

We assume the pentagonal viruses are relatively late and search for models of an earlier evolution. A possible start from the beginning billions of years ago would be cubic mathematics describing hypothetical virus structures. The proposed shift from cubic to pentagonal symmetry is unique and methods from inorganic solid‐state chemistry are very important in our description of structure.
Virus Structures, Stellations, Spikes, and Rods
Authors: Andersson Sten
Published: March 2009

We show that the spike structures of viruses accurately can be described as stellations of polyhedra using exponential GD functions and also the fundamental theorem of algebra. The structures of foot‐and‐mouth disease virus, human Coxsackie viruses B3 and A21, polio virus, human rhinovirus 16 (common cold), human hepatitis B virus, herpes virus, Sindbis virus, Semliki virus, and echoviruses 1, 7 and 12 are discussed. Again methods from inorganic solid‐state chemistry are very useful in the descriptions.
Nobel‐Metal Centered Polycations [Au@Bi10]5+ or [Pd@Bi10]4+ Embedded in Halogenido‐Bismuthate(III)‐Stannate(II) Frameworks
Authors: Wahl Bernhard , Erbe Manuela , Gerisch Alexander , Kloo Lars , Ruck Michael
Published: March 2009

The metal‐rich halogenides AuBi14–δSn2+δX21–δ (δ ≈ 0.4) and PdBi15–δSn1+δX21–δ (δ ≈ 0.6) with X = Cl, Br were crystallized from melts of the metals and BiX3. In the rhombohedral structures (space group R; a ≈ 1050 pm; α ≈ 94°), noble‐metal centered pentagonal antiprisms [Au@Bi10]5+ resp. [Pd@Bi10]4+ are embedded in halogenidometallate frameworks ∞3[Bi4–δSn2+δX21–δ]5– resp. ∞3[Bi5–δSn1+δX21–δ]4–. Mixed BiIII/SnII site occupation allows the framework to adopt different charges. Further exchange of BiIIIX3 against SnIIX2 results in vacancies (δ) on the position of an isolated halide ion. In quantum chemical calculations the naked metal‐clusters are found to be stable in D5d symmetry with interatomic distances close to the observed ones. The significance of interactions between the Wade‐type host cluster Bi104+ and the closed‐subshell guest atoms Au+ or Pd0 is reflected in the molecular orbital diagram, the population analyses and the ELI‐D.
Using remote sensing to quantify aeolian transport and estimate the age of the terminal dune field Dunas Pampa Blanca in southern Peru
Authors: Hesse Ralf
Published: March 2009

Aeolian dunes are widely used to reconstruct paleoenvironmental conditions. However, terminal dune fields (ergs) in the coastal desert of southern Peru – where information regarding Quaternary paleoenvironmental conditions is very limited – have until now not been used for paleoenvironmental reconstructions and the time depth of their accumulation is unknown. Here, different estimates are derived to constrain the time depth recorded in the Dunas Pampa Blanca, a terminal dune field in coastal southern Peru. Dune field age is calculated using the volume of the Dunas Pampa Blanca and (i) recent aeolian transport rate in migrating transverse dunes feeding the Dunas Pampa Blanca (derived from digital processing of sequential Landsat and Quickbird images) and (ii) limitations posed by recent fluvial sediment supply to the source of aeolian transport. The resulting maximum age estimate of 70 ± 8 ka (from aeolian transport) compares with a minimum age estimate of 4–75 ka (from sediment supply). However, a minimum age estimate of 110–450 ka is deduced from the tectonic and topographic evolution of the region. This discrepancy contradicts the hypothesis of late Quaternary stability in the Peruvian coastal desert and indicates that recent conditions of aeolian sediment supply and transport are not representative for the late Quaternary.
Self focusing of a laser pulse in plasma with periodic density ripple
Authors: Kaur Sukhdeep , Sharma A.K.
Published: March 2009

Propagation of an intense laser pulse in plasma with a periodically modulated density is considered using envelope equations. The laser induces modifications of the plasma refractive indexviarelativistic and ponderomotive nonlinearities. In the region of high plasma density, the self focusing effect of nonlinearity suppresses the diffraction divergence, and the laser converges. As the beam enters into the low density region, the diffraction tends to diverge it offsetting the convergence due to the curvature it has acquired. For a given set of plasma parameters, there is a critical power of the laser above which it propagates in a periodically focused manner. Below this power the laser undergoes overall divergence. At substantially higher powers, the laser beam continues to converge until the saturation effect of nonlinearity suppresses the self focusing and diffraction predominates. The effect of density ripple is to cause overall increase in the self focusing length. The minimum spot size decreases with the wave number of the ripple.
A study on fabrication, manipulation and survival of cryogenic targets required for the experiments at the Facility for Antiproton and Ion Research: FAIR
Authors: Koresheva E.R. , Aleksandrova I.V. , Koshelev E.L. , Nikitenko A.I. , Timasheva T.P. , Tolokonnikov S.M. , Belolipetskiy A.A. , Kapralov V.G. , Sergeev V. Yu. , Blazevic A. , Weyrich K. , Varentsov D. , Tahir N.A. , Udrea S. , Hoffmann D.H.H.
Published: March 2009

Cylindrical cryogenic targets are required to carry out the Laboratory Planetary Science scheme of the experiments of the High Energy Density matter Generated by Heavy Ion Beams collaboration at FAIR. In this paper, for the first time a thorough analysis of the problem of such targets' fabrication, delivery and positioning in the center of the experimental chamber has been made. Particular attention is paid to the issue of a specialized cryogenic system creation intended for rep-rate supply of the High Energy Density matter Generated by Heavy Ion Beams experiments with the cylindrical cryogenic targets.
Risk of transmitting meningococcal infection by transient contact on aircraft and other transport
Authors: RACHAEL T. , SCHUBERT K. , HELLENBRAND W. , KRAUSE G. , STUART J. M.
Published: March 2009

Contact tracing of persons with meningococcal disease who have travelled on aeroplanes or other multi-passenger transport is not consistent between countries. We searched the literature for clusters of meningococcal disease linked by transient contact on the same plane, train, bus or boat. We found reports of two clusters in children on the same school bus and one in passengers on the same plane. Cases within each of these three clusters were due to strains that were genetically indistinguishable. In the aeroplane cluster the only link between the two cases was through a single travel episode. The onset of illness (2 and 5 days after the flight) is consistent with infection from an unidentified carrier around the time of air travel. In contrast to the established risk of transmission from a case of tuberculosis, it is likely that the risk from a case of meningococcal disease to someone who is not identified as a close contact is exceedingly low. This should be considered in making international recommendations for passenger contact tracing after a case of meningococcal disease on a plane or other multi-passenger transport.
Habitat utilisation by the threatened Sichuan Partridge Arborophila rufipectus: consequences for managing newly protected areas in southern China
Authors: BO DAI , DOWELL SIMON D. , GARSON PETER J. , FEN-QI HE
Published: March 2009

A number of former forest farms in southern Sichuan province, south-west China have been designated as protected areas following the 1998 logging ban in the upper Yangtze basin. These are within the range of the endemic Sichuan Partridge Arborophila rufipectus which has a fragmented distribution in the remnant broadleaf forests of this region, and is currently listed as ‘Endangered’ by IUCN. The design of a robust conservation plan for this species has been hampered by a lack of knowledge about its habitat preferences in a heavily modified environment. To remedy this, ranging behaviour and habitat utilization by this species was studied through a combination of a call count method and radio tracking of individual birds. The results indicate that A. rufipectus significantly prefers primary and older planted secondary broadleaf forest compared to forest degraded by human activity or scrub. Individual birds were found on the upper parts of slopes and made particular use of areas with a dense canopy and open understorey, whilst avoiding the lower slopes and areas close to trails where human disturbance is likely to be greater. The ongoing conservation programme for this partridge species is based on these findings and includes further protected area designations and management plans, the establishment of new forest corridors, and better control of hunting and other forms of forest exploitation.
Measuring the lifecycle of baryonic matter in the Large Magellanic Cloud with the Spitzer SAGE-LMC survey
Authors: Meixner Margaret , Bernard Jean-Philippe , Blum Robert D. , Indebetouw Remy , Reach William , Srinivasan Sundar , Sewilo Marta , Whitney Barbara A.
Published: March 2009

The recycling of matter between the interstellar medium (ISM) and stars are key evolutionary drivers of a galaxy's baryonic matter. The Spitzer wavelengths provide a sensitive probe of circumstellar and interstellar dust and hence, allow us to study the physical processes of the ISM, the formation of new stars and the injection of mass by evolved stars and their relationships on the galaxy-wide scale of the LMC. Due to its proximity, favorable viewing angle, multi-wavelength information, and measured tidal interactions with the Small Magellanic Cloud (SMC), the LMC is uniquely suited for surveying the agents of a galaxy's evolution (SAGE), the ISM and stars. The SAGE-LMC project is measuring these key transition points in the life cycle of baryonic matter in the LMC. Here we present a connective view of the preliminary quantities estimated from SAGE-LMC for the total mass of the ISM, the galaxy wide star formation rate and the current stellar mass loss return. For context, we compare these numbers to the LMC's stellar mass.
Significant new planetary nebula discoveries as powerful probes of the LMC
Authors: Reid Warren A. , Parker Quentin A.
Published: March 2009

Our discovery and analysis of 452 new planetary nebulae (PNe) in the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC) has tripled the number of known LMC PNe, providing a powerful new resource for probing the kinematics of the LMC as well as contributing fresh insight into the PN luminosity function (PNLF) which we now extend to over 10 magnitudes in [O iii] and Hα. These discoveries have resulted from a new, deep (R ≡ 22), high resolution Hα map of the central 25 deg2 of the LMC, achieved by a process of multi-exposure median co-addition of a dozen 2-hour exposures. The resulting map is at least 1 magnitude deeper than the best wide-field narrow-band LMC images currently available and has proven a major resource for the discovery of emission objects of all kinds. As a result, the near complete sample of the PN population in the central 25 deg2 of the LMC has permitted truly meaningful quantitative determinations of the PNLF, distribution, abundances and kinematics. We briefly describe the importance of these PN discoveries, the additional spectroscopic confirmation of >2,000 compact emission sources, flux calibration, the newly derived electron temperatures and electron densities.
The spatial evolution of stellar structures in the LMC/SMC
Authors: Bastian Nate , Gieles Mark , Ercolano Barbara , Gutermuth Robert
Published: March 2009

We present an analysis of the spatial distribution of various stellar populations within the Large and Small Magellanic Clouds. We use optically selected stellar samples with mean ages between ~9 and ~1000 Myr, and existing stellar cluster catalogues to investigate how stellar structures form and evolve within the LMC/SMC. We use two statistical techniques to study the evolution of structure within these galaxies, the Q-parameter and the two-point correlation function (TPCF). In both galaxies we find the stars are born with a high degree of substructure (i.e. are highly fractal) and that the stellar distribution approaches that of the “background” population on timescales similar to the crossing times of the galaxy (~ 80 Myr & ~ 150 Myr for the SMC/LMC respectively). By comparing our observations to simple models of structural evolution we find that “popping star clusters” do not significantly influence structural evolution in these galaxies. Instead we argue that general galactic dynamics are the main drivers, and that substructure will be erased in approximately the crossing time, regardless of spatial scale, from small clusters to whole galaxies. This can explain why many young Galactic clusters have high degrees of substructure, while others are smooth and centrally concentrated. We conclude with a general discussion on cluster “infant mortality”, in an attempt to clarify the time/spatial scales involved.