bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phase II trial of upfront bevacizumab and temozolomide for unresectable or multifocal glioblastoma
Authors: Lou Emil , Peters Katherine B. , Sumrall Ashley L. , Desjardins Annick , Reardon David A. , Lipp Eric S. , Herndon James E. , Coan April , Bailey Leighann , Turner Scott , Friedman Henry S. , Vredenburgh James J.
Published: January 2013

Patients with unresectable glioblastomas have a poor prognosis, with median survival of 6–10 months. We conducted a phase II trial of upfront 5‐day temozolomide (TMZ) and bevacizumab (BV) in patients with newly diagnosed unresectable or multifocal glioblastoma. Patients received up to four cycles of TMZ at 200 mg/m2 on days 1–5, and BV at 10 mg/kg on days 1 and 15 of a 28‐day cycle. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed monthly. Therapy was continued as long as there was no tumor progression, grade 4 nonhematologic toxicity, or recurrent grade 4 hematologic toxicity after dose reduction. The primary end point was best tumor response as measured on MRI. Forty‐one patients were accrued over 12 months; 39 had a full set of MRI scans available for evaluation. Assessment for best radiographic responses was as follows: partial responses in 24.4%, stable disease in 68.3%, and progressive disease in 2.4%. Treatment‐related toxicities included seven grade 4 toxicities and one grade 5 toxicity (myocardial infarction). From this study, it was concluded that an upfront regimen of TMZ and BV for unresectable glioblastoma was well tolerated and provided a significant level of disease stabilization. Therapeutic toxicities were consistent with those seen in the adjuvant setting using these agents. The upfront approach to treatment of glioblastoma in the unresectable population warrants further investigation in randomized controlled phase III trials.
Just‐suspended agitation of solid mixtures
Authors: Bao Tianxin , Myers Kevin J. , Janz Eric E. , Fasano Julian B.
Published: January 2013

For binary solid mixtures, the mixture just‐suspended speed is predicted with reasonable accuracy from the sum of powers to suspend the solids individually. Exceptions to this behaviour occur for mixtures of low‐density solids and for mixtures involving a small, high‐density solid. For these systems, summing the powers required to individually suspend the solids over‐predicts the mixture just‐suspended speed. Limited testing of ternary solid mixtures indicates that summing the powers required to individually suspend the solids also predicts the just‐suspended speed in these more complex systems.
Mapping kainate activation of inner neurons in the rat retina
Authors: Nivison‐Smith Lisa , Sun Daniel , Fletcher Erica L. , Marc Robert E. , Kalloniatis Michael
Published: January 2013

Kainate receptors mediate fast, excitatory synaptic transmission for a range of inner neurons in the mammalian retina. However, allocation of functional kainate receptors to known cell types and their sensitivity remains unresolved. Using the cation channel probe 1‐amino‐4‐guanidobutane agmatine (AGB), we investigated kainate sensitivity of neurochemically identified cell populations within the structurally intact rat retina. Most inner retinal neuron populations responded to kainate in a concentration‐dependent manner. OFF cone bipolar cells demonstrated the highest sensitivity of all inner neurons to kainate. Immunocytochemical localization of AGB and macromolecular markers confirmed that type 2 bipolar cells were part of this kainate‐sensitive population. The majority of amacrine (ACs) and ganglion cells (GCs) showed kainate responses with different sensitivities between major neurochemical classes (γ‐aminobutyric acid [GABA]/glycine ACs > glycine ACs > GABA ACs; glutamate [Glu]/weakly GABA GCs > Glu GCs). Conventional and displaced cholinergic ACs were highly responsive to kainate, whereas dopaminergic ACs do not appear to express functional kainate receptors. These findings further contribute to our understanding of neuronal networks in complex multicellular tissues. J. Comp. Neurol. 521:2416–2438, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Mx1‐Cre mediated Rgs12 conditional knockout mice exhibit increased bone mass phenotype
Authors: Yang Shuying , Li Yi‐Ping , Liu Tongjun , He Xiaoning , Yuan Xue , Li Chunyi , Cao Jay , Kim Yunjung
Published: January 2013

Regulators of G‐protein Signaling (Rgs) proteins are the members of a multigene family of GTPase‐accelerating proteins (GAP) for the Galpha subunit of heterotrimeric G‐proteins. Rgs proteins play critical roles in the regulation of G protein couple receptor (GPCR) signaling in normal physiology and human diseases such as cancer, heart diseases, and inflammation. Rgs12 is the largest protein of the Rgs protein family. Some in vitro studies have demonstrated that Rgs12 plays a critical role in regulating cell differentiation and migration; however its function and mechanism in vivo is largely unknown. Here, we generated a floxed Rgs12 allele (Rgs12flox/flox) in which the exon 2, containing both PDZ and PTB_PID domains of Rgs12, was flanked with two loxp sites. By using the inducible Mx1‐cre and Poly I:C system to specifically delete Rgs12 at postnatal 10 days in interferon‐responsive cells including monocyte and macrophage cells, we found that Rgs12 mutant mice had growth retardation with the phenotype of increased bone mass. We further found that deletion of Rgs12 reduced osteoclast numbers and had no significant effect on osteoblast formation. Thus, Rgs12flox/flox conditional mice provide a valuable tool for in vivo analysis of Rgs12 function and mechanism through time‐ and cell‐specific deletion of Rgs12. genesis 51:201–209, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Youth identities as remixers in an online community of storytellers: Attitudes, strategies, and values
Authors: Ahn June , Subramaniam Mega , Fleischmann Kenneth R. , Waugh Amanda , Walsh Greg , Druin Allison
Published: January 2013

In today's media‐rich world, youths are not merely consumers, but also active creators of information. Digital tools allow authors to more easily remix and copy previous works. These new media practices have brought issues of appropriation, copyright, privacy, information behavior, and information literacy to the forefront. In this paper, we present a case study of a hybrid online and offline community of middle school students designed to help them develop identities as scientists through storytelling. The case illuminates the complex issues of appropriation and remix that arise when youths create, share, copy, and adapt their peers' media artifacts. Our analysis then highlights how youths, who are evolving as information literate individuals, identify with (a) attitudes towards information appropriation, (b) strategies of remix, and (c) the underlying values that motivate their ideas about remix practices.
Major phenylpropanoid‐derived metabolites in the human gut can arise from microbial fermentation of protein
Authors: Russell Wendy R. , Duncan Sylvia H. , Scobbie Lorraine , Duncan Gary , Cantlay Louise , Calder A. Graham , Anderson Susan E. , Flint Harry J.
Published: January 2013

Scope

Plant secondary metabolites, such as phenolic acids are commonly associated with benefits for human health. Two of the most abundant phenylpropanoid‐derived compounds detected in human faecal samples are phenylacetic acid (PAA) and 4‐hydroxylphenylacetic acid (4‐hydroxyPAA). Although they have the potential to be derived from diets rich in plant‐based foods, evidence suggests that these compounds can be derived from the microbial fermentation of aromatic amino acids (AAAs) in the colon.

Methods and results

To identify the bacteria responsible, 26 strains representing 25 of the dominant human colonic species were screened for phenyl metabolite formation. Seven strains produced significant amounts of both PAA and 4‐hydroxyPAA. These included five out of seven Bacteroidetes (Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron, Bacteroides eggerthii, Bacteroides ovatus, Bacteroides fragilis, Parabacteroides distasonis), and two out of 17 Firmicutes (Eubacterium hallii and Clostridium bartlettii). These species also produced indole‐3‐acetic acid (IAA), the corresponding tryptophan metabolite, but C. bartlettii showed 100 times higher IAA production than the other six strains. Four strains were further tested and PAA formation was substantially increased by phenylalanine, 4‐hydroxyPAA by tyrosine and IAA by tryptophan.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that certain microbial species have the ability to ferment all three AAAs and that protein fermentation is the likely source of major phenylpropanoid‐derived metabolites in the colon.
Exploring the Interplay of Trait Self–Control and Ego Depletion: Empirical Evidence for Ironic Effects
Authors: Imhoff Roland , Schmidt Alexander F. , Gerstenberg Friederike
Published: January 2013

Trait self–control (TSC) has been conceptualized as a general and abstract ability to exert self–regulation across multiple domains that has mostly beneficial effects. However, its relationship to situational depletion of self–regulatory resources has received little attention. We systematically explore the interplay of trait and situational self–control in two studies (total N = 264). In contrast with a positive view of TSC, the results show greater ego depletion effects for high (vs. low) self–control abilities across such diverse domains as candy consumption (Study 1), risk–taking behaviour (Study 2) and achievement motivation (Study 2). It is proposed that these ironic effects are attributable to high–TSC individuals’ less frequent active inhibition of impulses in everyday life and their resulting lack of experience in resisting acute temptations. A third study (N> = 358) corroborated this general reasoning by showing that TSC is indeed associated with less frequent impulse inhibition in daily routines. Our data point to a downside of dispositional self–control in ego depletion paradigms. Other explanations and potential future avenues for resolving inconsistent findings across the literature are discussed. Copyright © 2013 European Association of Personality Psychology
Magnetodielectric effect and electric-induced magnetic permeability in magnetoelectric laminate composite under low inspiring signal
Authors: Zhou Jian-Ping , Zhang Yu-Xiang , Zhang Guang-Bin , Liu Peng
Published: January 2013

A theory based on equivalent circuit was proposed to demonstrate that magnetodielectric (MDE) effect and electric-induced magnetic permeability (EIMP) exist in the magnetoelectric composite. Both MDE and EIMP are sensitive to the amplitude of inspiring signal. They were researched in a simple Pb(Zr,Ti)O3/Terfenol-D laminate composite experimentally. A large MDE coefficient over 85% was found near the resonance frequency under a low magnetic field of 40 Oe. The EIMP was also observed in the composite. They are mainly originated from the magnetoelectric coupling between the piezoelectric and magnetostrictive components. These results are significant in the device applications of modulating dielectric constant and magnetic permeability at room temperature.
Depth-resolved cathodoluminescence spectroscopy of silicon supersaturated with sulfur
Authors: Fabbri Filippo , Smith Matthew J. , Recht Daniel , Aziz Michael J. , Gradečak Silvija , Salviati Giancarlo
Published: January 2013

We investigate the luminescence of Si supersaturated with S (Si:S) using depth-resolved cathodoluminescence spectroscopy and secondary ion mass spectroscopy as the S concentration is varied over 2 orders of magnitude (1018–1020 cm−3). In single-crystalline supersaturated Si:S, we identify strong luminescence from intra-gap states related to Si self-interstitials and a S-related luminescence at 0.85 eV, both of which show a strong dependence on S concentration in the supersaturated regime. Sufficiently high S concentrations in Si (>1020 cm−3) result in complete luminescence quenching, which we propose is a consequence of the overlapping of the defect band and conduction band.
Application of self-assembled hemispherical microlasers as gas sensors
Authors: Ta V. D. , Chen R. , Nguyen D. M. , Sun H. D.
Published: January 2013

Dye-doped hemispherical resonators are self-assembled on a distributed Bragg reflector based on hydrophobic effect. The size of hemispheres can be well-controlled with diameters ranging from 5 to 150 μm. Upon optical pumping, whispering gallery mode laser emission with transverse magnetic polarization is observed from the hemispheres. Application of the microlasers as refractive index gas sensors has been demonstrated by detecting the spectrum shift of the lasing mode, and the sensitivity higher than 130 nm/RIU is achieved. Our approach provides an effective technique to obtain high quality microlasers and opens an opportunity to employ the cost effective microlasers as high sensitive sensors.
Electron beam collimation with a 40 000 tip metallic double-gate field emitter array and in-situ control of nanotip sharpness distribution
Authors: Helfenstein P. , Guzenko V. A. , Fink H.-W. , Tsujino S.
Published: January 2013

The generation of highly collimated electron beams from a double-gate field emitter array with 40000 metallic tips and large collimation gate apertures is reported. Field emission beam measurements demonstrated the reduction of the beam envelope down to the array size by applying a negative potential to the on-chip gate electrode for the collimation of individual field emission beamlets. Owing to the optimized gate structure, the concomitant decrease of the emission current was minimal, leading to a net enhancement of the current density. Furthermore, a noble gas conditioning process was successfully applied to the double-gate device to improve the beam uniformity in-situ with orders of magnitude increase of the active emission area. The results show that the proposed double-gate field emission cathodes are promising for high current and high brightness electron beam applications such as free-electron lasers and THz power devices.
Electrostatic adhesion of multiple non-uniformly charged dielectric particles
Authors: Kemp B. A. , Whitney J. G.
Published: January 2013

Charged particle adhesion measurements can be as much as one order of magnitude higher than theoretical calculations. This discrepancy has ignited a debate as to the nature of the physics occurring with microscopic particle adhesion. Attempts to bring calculations closer to measured results have produced models that include multiple particle interactions, dielectric polarization, and non-uniform charge. Individually, each of these models can only produce a 2× to 5× enhancement in predicted adhesion force over simple Coulombic attraction. In this correspondence, an analytical model of electrostatic particle forces is developed, which allows for independent assignment of dielectric constant and non-uniform surface charge distribution to an arbitrary number of particles. Because the model can include an image plane, it is ideal for electrostatic adhesion calculations. Application to a monolayer of printed toner particles predicts nearly an order of magnitude increase in adhesion force over Coulombic attraction. These results are the first analytical results to place predictions of charged particle adhesion on the same order of magnitude with measurements.
Evolution of the resistive switching in chemical solution deposited-derived BiFeO3 thin films with dwell time and annealing temperature
Authors: Tang Xianwu , Zhu Xuebin , Dai Jianming , Yang Jie , Chen Li , Sun Yuping
Published: January 2013

Different resistive switching has been observed in the Au/BiFeO3/Pt structure composed with the BiFeO3 (BFO) thin films annealed at different temperature for different dwell time. Resistive switching decreases and disappearances with increasing annealing temperature, while reappear with prolonging dwell time. The evolution in the resistive switching is understand by the polarization modulated interfacial barriers for the low temperature annealing BFO films, oxygen vacancies rectifying interfacial depletion layer barriers for the high temperature and long time, and p-n junction for the films annealed for the longest time at high temperature.
Magnetic vortex stability in Ni80Fe20 split rings
Authors: Holmes S. N. , Lee J. H. , Hong B. , Mascaro M. D. , Anderson D. , Jones G. A. C. , Ross C. A. , Barnes C. H. W.
Published: January 2013

Magnetoresistance measurements at 300 K and 1.7 K are used to quantify the vortex state magnetic field duration in a series of Ni80Fe20 ring structures with two nm-sized gaps. The measured gap sizes are from 40 nm to 510 nm. The vortex magnetic field range of stability reduces on increasing gap size but then stabilizes and is predominantly determined by extrinsic domain wall pinning defects. Virtual domain wall mediated switching with the applied magnetic field direction parallel to the gap, reduces a stochastic switching behavior in these structures, compared to a continuous ring. A comparison of experiment with the predicted switching behavior from a micro-magnetic simulation is made and the stray fields are calculated in the vortex remanent state. The reduction in the vortex field duration with increasing gap size is more gradual than that predicted by the micro-magnetic simulation up to a gap size of ∼100 nm.
Electrical transport and photocurrent mechanisms in silicon nanocrystal multilayers
Authors: Manousiadis P. , Gardelis S. , Nassiopoulou A. G.
Published: January 2013

In this study, we investigated the lateral electrical transport and photocurrent mechanisms in multilayers of two-dimensional arrays of silicon nanocrystals (SiNCs), grown on quartz substrates by low pressure chemical vapor deposition (LPCVD) of Si and thermal oxidation. At low voltages, electrical conduction was ohmic, whereas at higher voltages, it was space charge limited in the presence of traps. At temperatures higher than 200 K both dark current and photocurrent were determined by thermal activation of carriers across the energy band gap, with an activation energy depending either on the applied voltage or on illumination. At temperatures lower than 200 K, the rate of current variation with temperature was smaller as transport was realized by carrier hopping, via phonons, between trapping states within the energy band gap, located near in energy and around the Fermi level. However, at the same temperature range, photocurrent was independent of temperature, as it was determined by carrier hopping from higher energy states to progressively lower ones. From this analysis, carrier concentration, an effective carrier mobility and trap density were extracted.
Generation of flat-spectrum wideband chaos by fiber ring resonator
Authors: Wang Anbang , Wang Yuncai , Yang Yibiao , Zhang Mingjiang , Xu Hang , Wang Bingjie
Published: January 2013

We present a simple method to generate spectrally uniform wideband chaos by injecting chaotic laser into a fiber ring resonator. The resonator is a single-coupler ring equipped with an optical filter and amplifier, which adjust the optical field circulating in the ring. The incoherent interference of the circulating fields produces wideband chaos with uniform power spectrum density distribution. We experimentally achieved a chaotic spectrum that extends over 26.5 GHz (limited by measurement bandwidth) and fluctuates within ±1.5 dB. In addition, tuning the filter frequency can control the spectral profile so as to meet different application needs.
Roles of poloidal rotation in the q = 1 high-order harmonic tearing modes in a tokamak plasma
Authors: Wei Lai , Wang Zheng-Xiong
Published: January 2013

Roles of poloidal rotation in stabilizing the m/n=1/1 kink-tearing mode and exciting its high-order harmonic tearing modes are numerically investigated by using a reduced magnetohydrodynamic model. It is found that the high-order harmonic tearing modes, such as m/n=2/2, m/n=3/3, or even much higher-m harmonics, can be destabilized so significantly by rotation shear as to be more unstable than or comparable to the m/n=1/1 mode. Moreover, the short wave-length Kelvin- Helmholtz (KH) instabilities can be excited in the large rotation shear regime. The scaling power laws of the linear growth rate for each harmonic mode in different rotation shear regimes are verified by the previous relevant theoretical results based on the non-constant-ψ and constant-ψ behavior categories in tearing modes. During the nonlinear evolution, the m/n=2/2 mode dominated phase first appears and then is followed by the m/n=1/1 mode dominated nonlinear phase instead. Afterward, some smaller sub-islands due to the high-order harmonics are produced in the large irregular m=1 crescent-shaped island, and then a coalescence process of turbulent island chains occurs before the decay phase.
Abrupt transitions in species number densities and plasma parameters in a CH3F/O2 inductively coupled plasma
Authors: Karakas Erdinc , Donnelly Vincent M. , Economou Demetre J.
Published: January 2013

Measured relative densities as a function of O2 addition in a CH3F/O2 inductively coupled plasma changed abruptly for H, O, and particularly F atoms (factor of 4) at 48% O2. A corresponding transition was observed in electron density, effective electron temperature, and gas temperature, as well as in C, CF, and CH optical emission. These abrupt transitions were attributed to the reactor wall reactivity, changing from a polymer-coated surface to a polymer-free surface and vice-versa, as the O2 content in the feed gas crossed 48%.
Slitrks control excitatory and inhibitory synapse formation with LAR receptor protein tyrosine phosphatases
Authors: Yim Yeong Shin , Kwon Younghee , Nam Jungyong , Yoon Hong In , Lee Kangduk , Kim Dong Goo , Kim Eunjoon , Kim Chul Hoon , Ko Jaewon
Published: January 2013

The balance between excitatory and inhibitory synaptic inputs, which is governed by multiple synapse organizers, controls neural circuit functions and behaviors. Slit- and Trk-like proteins (Slitrks) are a family of synapse organizers, whose emerging synaptic roles are incompletely understood. Here, we report that Slitrks are enriched in postsynaptic densities in rat brains. Overexpression of Slitrks promoted synapse formation, whereas RNAi-mediated knockdown of Slitrks decreased synapse density. Intriguingly, Slitrks were required for both excitatory and inhibitory synapse formation in an isoform-dependent manner. Moreover, Slitrks required distinct members of the leukocyte antigen-related receptor protein tyrosine phosphatase (LAR-RPTP) family to trigger synapse formation. Protein tyrosine phosphatase σ (PTPσ), in particular, was specifically required for excitatory synaptic differentiation by Slitrks, whereas PTPδ was necessary for inhibitory synapse differentiation. Taken together, these data suggest that combinatorial interactions of Slitrks with LAR-RPTP family members maintain synapse formation to coordinate excitatory–inhibitory balance.
Biomimetic, synthetic HDL nanostructures for lymphoma
Authors: Yang Shuo , Damiano Marina G. , Zhang Heng , Tripathy Sushant , Luthi Andrea J. , Rink Jonathan S. , Ugolkov Andrey V. , T. K. Singh Amareshwar , Dave Sandeep S. , Gordon Leo I. , Thaxton C. Shad
Published: January 2013

New therapies that challenge existing paradigms are needed for the treatment of cancer. We report a nanoparticle-enabled therapeutic approach to B-cell lymphoma using synthetic high density lipoprotein nanoparticles (HDL-NPs). HDL-NPs are synthesized using a gold nanoparticle template to control conjugate size and ensure a spherical shape. Like natural HDLs, biomimetic HDL-NPs target scavenger receptor type B-1, a high-affinity HDL receptor expressed by lymphoma cells. Functionally, compared with natural HDL, the gold NP template enables differential manipulation of cellular cholesterol flux in lymphoma cells, promoting cellular cholesterol efflux and limiting cholesterol delivery. This combination of scavenger receptor type B-1 binding and relative cholesterol starvation selectively induces apoptosis. HDL-NP treatment of mice bearing B-cell lymphoma xenografts selectively inhibits B-cell lymphoma growth. As such, HDL-NPs are biofunctional therapeutic agents, whose mechanism of action is enabled by the presence of a synthetic nanotemplate. HDL-NPs are active in B-cell lymphomas and potentially, other malignancies or diseases of pathologic cholesterol accumulation.
Compromised fidelity of endocytic synaptic vesicle protein sorting in the absence of stonin 2
Authors: Kononenko Natalia L. , Diril M. Kasim , Puchkov Dmytro , Kintscher Michael , Koo Seong Joo , Pfuhl Gerit , Winter York , Wienisch Martin , Klingauf Jürgen , Breustedt Jörg , Schmitz Dietmar , Maritzen Tanja , Haucke Volker
Published: January 2013

Significance

Brain function depends on neurotransmission, and alterations in this process are linked to neuropsychiatric disorders. Neurotransmitter release requires the rapid recycling of synaptic vesicles (SVs) by endocytosis. How synapses can rapidly regenerate SVs, yet preserve their molecular composition, is poorly understood. We demonstrate that mice lacking the endocytic protein stonin 2 (Stn2) show changes in exploratory behavior and defects in SV composition, whereas the speed at which SVs are regenerated is increased. As Stn2 is implicated in schizophrenia and autism in humans, our findings bear implications for neuropsychiatric disorders.
Development and Field Evaluation of Multiple Virus-Resistant Bottle Gourd (Lagenaria siceraria)
Authors: Ling K.-S. , Levi A. , Adkins S. , Kousik C. S. , Miller G. , Hassell R. , Keinath A. P.
Published: January 2013

In an effort to develop bottle gourd (Lagenaria siceraria) as a widely adapted rootstock for watermelon grafting, we sought to identify lines with broad resistance to several cucurbit viruses that are economically important in the United States. Preliminary analysis under greenhouse conditions indicated that the currently available commercial watermelon rootstocks were either highly susceptible or somewhat tolerant to one or more viruses. However, in greenhouse screening, several breeding lines of bottle gourd displayed broad-spectrum resistance to four viruses tested, including Zucchini yellow mosaic virus, Watermelon mosaic virus (WMV), Papaya ringspot virus watermelon strain (PRSV-W), and Squash vein yellowing virus. Resistance to PRSV-W and WMV was confirmed through field trials in two consecutive years at two different locations in South Carolina. Two breeding lines (USVL#1-8 and USVL#5-5) with broad-spectrum virus resistance could be useful materials for watermelon rootstock development.
Manufacture of an aluminum rigid‐flex circuit assembly without the use of solder
Authors: Fjelstad Joseph
Published: January 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe a novel method for the manufacture of aluminum rigid‐flex circuit assemblies without the use of solder.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach involves the use of an aluminum base material and the embedding of components, while avoiding the use of solder in the assembly process.

Findings

The new methods and proposed structures address the key manufacturing problems that have vexed users for many years, while simultaneously addressing the challenge of thermal management. They also offer the advantage of enhanced reliability by avoiding the need for high temperatures used in soldering.

Research limitations/implications

While examples of the process and its benefits have been demonstrated, further work is ongoing to expand applicability.

Originality/value

The paper begins with an overview of previous work in this area and then moves on to what is currently being implemented via the new technology. A novel method is described for the creation of potentially more cost‐effective and reliable rigid flex assemblies, which would be suitable for use in a wide range of products, from consumer to high‐reliability automotive, military and aerospace.
Development of new laminates for high performance interconnection technology in avionics applications
Authors: Raghunath C.R. , Raghunath U. , Yeshaswini H.S. , Rashmi H.
Published: January 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to detail various aspects of laminates and their current developments in order to enable the selection and development of appropriate laminate systems for use in high performance avionics interconnection applications.

Design/methodology/approach

Electronic packaging must provide circuit support, heat dissipation, signal distribution, manufacturability, serviceability, power distribution and data for performance simulation over the required frequency range in avionics applications. Innovations in packaging technology have made a big impact on the types of laminates that can be used in printed circuit boards destined for these applications. The “environments” in which aircraft are required to operate have changed due to global security threats and the laminates traditionally used are not designed for this role. Aircraft systems are expected to withstand disturbances due to unexpected threats. Various factors which determine the performance of laminates are evaluated.

Findings

The safety of aircraft is critically dependent on the interconnection technology in which laminates have a major role. Under global security threats, passenger safety, emergency landing and timely information to the pilot is of paramount importance. Hence, research programs need to be initiated to develop new innovative laminate systems, since traditional laminates have limitations in these applications.

Research limitations/implications

The availability of data on the performance of laminates used in interconnection technology under various security threats is limited.

Originality/value

The paper describes how new laminates for high performance interconnection technology in avionics applications can be developed.
Global alcohol exposure estimates by country, territory and region for 2005—a contribution to the Comparative Risk Assessment for the 2010 Global Burden of Disease Study
Authors: Shield Kevin D. , Rylett Margaret , Gmel Gerhard , Gmel Gerrit , Kehoe‐Chan Tara A. K. , Rehm Jürgen
Published: January 2013

Aims

This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of life‐time abstainers, former drinkers and current drinkers, adult per‐capita consumption of alcohol and pattern of drinking scores, by country and Global Burden of Disease region for 2005, and to forecast these indicators for 2010.

Design

Statistical modelling based on survey data and routine statistics.

Setting and Participants

A total of 241 countries and territories.

Measurements

Per‐capita consumption data were obtained with the help of the World Health Organization's Global Information System on Alcohol and Health. Drinking status data were obtained from Gender, Alcohol and Culture: An International Study, the STEPwise approach to Surveillance study, the World Health Survey/Multi‐Country Study and other surveys. Consumption and drinking status data were triangulated to estimate alcohol consumption across multiple categories.

Findings

In 2005 adult per‐capita annual consumption of alcohol was 6.1 litres, with 1.7 litres stemming from unrecorded consumption; 17.1 litres of alcohol were consumed per drinker, 45.8% of all adults were life‐time abstainers, 13.6% were former drinkers and 40.6% were current drinkers. Life‐time abstention was most prevalent in North Africa/Middle East and South Asia. Eastern Europe and Southern sub‐Saharan Africa had the most detrimental pattern of drinking scores, while drinkers in Europe (Eastern and Central) and sub‐Saharan Africa (Southern and West) consumed the most alcohol.

Conclusions

Just over 40% of the world's adult population consumes alcohol and the average consumption per drinker is 17.1 litres per year. However, the prevalence of abstention, level of alcohol consumption and patterns of drinking vary widely across regions of the world.
Pharmacological potential of biogenic amine–polyamine interactions beyond neurotransmission
Authors: Sánchez‐Jiménez F , Ruiz‐Pérez M V , Urdiales J L , Medina M A
Published: January 2013

Histamine, serotonin and dopamine are biogenic amines involved in intercellular communication with multiple effects on human pathophysiology. They are products of two highly homologous enzymes, histidine decarboxylase and l‐aromatic amino acid decarboxylase, and transmit their signals through different receptors and signal transduction mechanisms. Polyamines derived from ornithine (putrescine, spermidine and spermine) are mainly involved in intracellular effects related to cell proliferation and death mechanisms. This review summarizes structural and functional evidence for interactions between components of all these amine metabolic and signalling networks (decarboxylases, transporters, oxidases, receptors etc.) at cellular and tissue levels, distinct from nervous and neuroendocrine systems, where the crosstalk among these amine‐related components can also have important pathophysiological consequences. The discussion highlights aspects that could help to predict and discuss the effects of intervention strategies.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed issue on Histamine Pharmacology Update. To view the other articles in this issue visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2013.170.issue‐1
Distinguishing ecological from evolutionary approaches to transposable elements
Authors: Linquist Stefan , Saylor Brent , Cottenie Karl , Elliott Tyler A. , Kremer Stefan C. , Ryan Gregory T.
Published: January 2013

Considerable variation exists not only in the kinds of transposable elements (TEs) occurring within the genomes of different species, but also in their abundance and distribution. Noting a similarity to the assortment of organisms among ecosystems, some researchers have called for an ecological approach to the study of transposon dynamics. However, there are several ways to adopt such an approach, and it is sometimes unclear what an ecological perspective will add to the existing co‐evolutionary framework for explaining transposon‐host interactions. This review aims to clarify the conceptual foundations of transposon ecology in order to evaluate its explanatory prospects. We begin by identifying three unanswered questions regarding the abundance and distribution of TEs that potentially call for an ecological explanation. We then offer an operational distinction between evolutionary and ecological approaches to these questions. By determining the amount of variance in transposon abundance and distribution that is explained by ecological and evolutionary factors, respectively, it is possible empirically to assess the prospects for each of these explanatory frameworks. To illustrate how this methodology applies to a concrete example, we analyzed whole‐genome data for one set of distantly related mammals and another more closely related group of arthropods. Our expectation was that ecological factors are most informative for explaining differences among individual TE lineages, rather than TE families, and for explaining their distribution among closely related as opposed to distantly related host genomes. We found that, in these data sets, ecological factors do in fact explain most of the variation in TE abundance and distribution among TE lineages across less distantly related host organisms. Evolutionary factors were not significant at these levels. However, the explanatory roles of evolution and ecology become inverted at the level of TE families or among more distantly related genomes. Not only does this example demonstrate the utility of our distinction between ecological and evolutionary perspectives, it further suggests an appropriate explanatory domain for the burgeoning discipline of transposon ecology. The fact that ecological processes appear to be impacting TE lineages over relatively short time scales further raises the possibility that transposons might serve as useful model systems for testing more general hypotheses in ecology.
Assessment of Subendocardial Contractile Function in Aortic Stenosis: A Study Using Speckle Tracking Echocardiography
Authors: van Dalen Bas M. , Tzikas Apostolos , Soliman Osama I. I. , Heuvelman Helena J. , Vletter Wim B. , ten Cate Folkert J. , Geleijnse Marcel L.
Published: January 2013

Background: Angina and an electrocardiographic strain pattern are potential manifestations of subendocardial ischemia in aortic stenosis (AS). Left ventricular (LV) twist is known to increase proportionally to the severity of AS, which may be a result of loss of the inhibiting effect of the subendocardial fibers due to subendocardial dysfunction. It has also been shown that the ratio of LV twist to circumferential shortening of the endocardium (twist‐to‐shortening ratio [TSR]) is a reliable parameter of subendocardial dysfunction. The aim of this study was to investigate whether these markers are increased in AS patients with angina and/or electrocardiographic strain. Methods: The study comprised 60 AS patients with an aortic valve area <2.0 cm2 and LV ejection fraction >50%, and 30 healthy—for age and gender matched—control subjects. LV rotation parameters were determined by speckle tracking echocardiography. Results: Comparison of patients without angina and strain (n = 22), with either angina or strain (n = 28), and with both angina and strain (n = 8), showed highest peak systolic LV apical rotation, peak systolic LV twist, and TSR, in patients with more signs of subendocardial ischemia. In a multivariate linear regression model, only severity of AS and the presence of angina and/or strain could be identified as independent predictors of peak systolic LV twist and TSR. Conclusions: Peak systolic LV twist and TSR are increased in AS patients and related to the severity of AS and symptoms (angina) or electrocardiographic signs (strain) compatible with subendocardial ischemia.
Ultimate and proximate mechanisms underlying the occurrence of bears close to human settlements: review and management implications
Authors: Elfström Marcus , Zedrosser Andreas , Støen Ole‐Gunnar , Swenson Jon E.
Published: January 2013

Large carnivores (LCs), such as bears (Ursidae), are commonly believed to occur near human settlements because they have a learned tolerance of humans (human habituation) and because they associate humans with accessible high‐quality foods (food conditioning). Young bears and females with cubs are often overrepresented among ‘problem’ bears near settlements.

We review the mechanisms underlying the occurrence of brown and black bears (Ursus arctos, Ursus americanus, Ursus thibetanus) near settlements, and consider four hypotheses designed to separate ultimate and proximate mechanisms.

Increased occurrence of bears near people or settlements can be explained by (i) the human habituation hypothesis; increased use of human‐derived foods can be explained by (ii) the food‐conditioning hypothesis. However, both mechanisms are proximate, because they can only apply if bears have earlier experience of people and/or human‐derived food.

A lack of human experience can explain the increased occurrence of younger bears near people or settlements: (iii) the naivety hypothesis. This is a proximate mechanism, because movements of naive bears are typically triggered by aggression and/or competition among conspecifics.

We conclude that the disproportionate occurrence of bears in certain sex, age and reproductive classes near people or settlements can only be explained by predation avoidance and/or interference competition, i.e. by (iv) the despotic distribution hypothesis. Therefore, a despotic distribution must be an ultimate mechanism causing the proximate mechanisms of habituation or conditioning. Thus, bears using settlements as predation refuges should not be considered ‘unnatural’, but rather as exhibiting an adaptive behaviour, because of the despotic distribution among conspecifics.

Management of LCs includes attractant management, to counteract food conditioning, but failure to consider despotic behaviour among conspecifics may lead to treating only the symptom, e.g. habituation or conditioning. The ultimate cause of attraction to specific settlements may be identified by considering the type of bear involved; the occurrence of large solitary bears near settlements suggests attractive habitat or food shortage in remote areas, whereas subadults and females with cubs suggest lower‐quality habitat.
Self‐advocacy and cancer: a concept analysis
Authors: Hagan Teresa L. , Donovan Heidi S.
Published: January 2013

Aim

To report an analysis of the concept of self‐advocacy among individuals with cancer to clarify its meaning, to differentiate this meaning with related concepts, and to unify understanding of the concept in cancer research and practice.

Background

Cancer survivors are increasingly required to assume an active role in their health care. A thorough analysis of how survivors advocate for themselves is a crucial aspect in supporting survivors' ability to engage and manage their care throughout all stages of cancer survivorship.

Design

Walker and Avant's eight‐step process of conducting a concept analysis was used.

Data sources

PubMed, PsycINFO, and CINAHL databases were searched for articles, reviews, editorials, and grey literature directly addressing self‐advocacy.

Review methods

A broad inquiry into the literature from 1960 to 2012 that produces a definition of self‐advocacy. Model and contrary cases of self‐advocacy demonstrate the concept's application and intricacies.

Results

Antecedents to self‐advocacy include particular personal characteristics, learned skills, and attainable support. The essential element of self‐advocacy and what differentiates it from related concepts, is the internalization of these antecedent resources into self‐advocacy thoughts and actions while incorporating personal values and priorities in a way that upholds the survivors' goals and beliefs. A full realization of self‐advocacy facilitates a cancer survivor attaining a strong self‐concept, sense of control, and adaptation to a life with cancer.

Conclusions

Self‐advocacy is a process of internalizing skills and resources to act in a way that supports survivors' needs and goals.
Patterns of Functional Decline in Hospice: What Can Individuals and Their Families Expect?
Authors: Harris Pamela , Wong Esther , Farrington Sue , Craig Teresa R. , Harrold Joan K. , Oldanie Betty , Teno Joan M. , Casarett David J.
Published: January 2013

Objectives

To describe the trajectory of functional decline after an individual is referred to hospice.

Design

Electronic health record–based retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Three hospice programs in the U.S. southeast, northeast, and midwest.

Participants

Individuals in hospice.

Main outcome measures

Palliative Performance Scale (PPS) scores measured at intervals between hospice enrollment and death, on a scale from 10 to 100.

Results

In 8,669 decedents, there was an average 13.8‐point decline in PPS score. After adjusting for baseline PPS score and length of stay in hospice, three distinct trajectories were identified, each of which consisted of two diagnoses whose rates of decline had 95% confidence intervals (CIs) that overlapped. The most rapid decline was observed for individuals with cancer (adjusted decline 8.44 points/wk; 95% CI = 8.03–8.82) and stroke (adjusted decline 7.67 points/wk, 95% CI = 7.08–8.29). A significantly slower decline was observed in individuals with pulmonary disease (adjusted decline 5.02 points/wk, 95% CI = 4.24–5.75) and cardiac disease (adjusted decline 4.53 points/wk, 95% CI = 4.05–5.05). Individuals with debility (adjusted decline 1.86 points/wk, 95% CI = 0.95–2.78) and dementia (adjusted decline 1.98 points/wk, 95% CI = 1.01–2.89) had the slowest decline. In an inverse probability–weighted sample of individuals who had a PPS score recorded in the last day of life (n = 1,959, 22.6%), 35.9% had a PPS score of at least 40, indicating some oral intake, variable mental status, limited self‐care, and an ability to get out of bed for at least part of the day.

Conclusion

Although functional status generally declines in individuals in hospice, this decline is heterogeneous. Some individuals retain some physical and cognitive function until the last day of life.
Career development: graduate nurse views
Authors: Cleary Michelle , Horsfall Jan , Muthulakshmi Paulpandi , Happell Brenda , Hunt Glenn E
Published: January 2013

Aims and objectives

To explore recent Singapore nursing graduates' experience of and views about their career development and progress.

Background

The recruitment and retention of an adequate number of registered nurses is a continuing workforce issue in Singapore and other major cities.

Design

Survey of recent nursing graduates.

Methods

Recent nursing graduates from the Bachelor programme (n = 147) were sent an individual survey; a response rate of 54% was achieved.

Results

Findings show that nurses rated their self‐concept in a positive manner and were most satisfied (moderately to very) with helping patients and providing effective care, and the level of patient involvement. They were least satisfied (moderately to only a little) with prestige among the general medical community and the general public, hours of work, lifestyle factors and research opportunities. The following four factors were identified as significant impediments to career development; lack of support in the work place; perceived insufficient clinical career development opportunities; excessive work hours; and limited access to merit‐based places in further education.

Conclusions

Suggestions made to overcome perceived career development barriers are as follows: broad multifactorial healthcare system changes; decreased and more flexible working hours; and fairer access to further clinical and higher education.

Relevance to clinical practice

Results highlight the value clinical nurses place on having access to career development opportunities, merit‐based further education and work place supports. These factors also have the potential to influence patient care and impact on the retention of nurses in their present job and satisfaction with their nursing career.
Adapted Intervention Mapping: A Strategic Planning Process for Increasing Physical Activity and Healthy Eating Opportunities in Schools via Environment and Policy Change
Authors: Belansky Elaine S. , Cutforth Nick , Chavez Robert , Crane Lori A. , Waters Emily , Marshall Julie A.
Published: January 2013

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND

School environment and policy changes have increased healthy eating and physical activity; however, there has been modest success in translating research findings to practice. The School Environment Project tested whether an adapted version of Intervention Mapping (AIM) resulted in school change.

METHODS

Using a pair randomized design, 10 rural elementary schools were assigned to AIM or the School Health Index (SHI). Baseline measures were collected fall 2005, AIM was conducted 2005‐2006, and follow‐up measures were collected fall 2006 and 2007. Outcome measures included number and type of effective environment and policy changes implemented; process measures included the extent to which 11 implementation steps were used.

RESULTS

AIM schools made an average of 4.4 effective changes per school with 90% still in place a year later. SHI schools made an average of 0.6 effective changes with 66% in place a year later. Implementation steps distinguishing AIM from SHI included use of external, trained facilitators; principal involvement; explicitly stating the student behavior goals; identifying effective environment and policy changes; prioritizing potential changes based on importance and feasibility; and developing an action plan.

CONCLUSION

The AIM process led to environment and policy changes known to increase healthy eating and physical activity.
A note on the length, measured along fixed orientations, of a path connecting any two points relative to their straight line distance
Authors: Odijk Michiel A. , van Gelder Pieter H. A. J. M.
Published: January 2013

Let D be an invertible matrix and L1 (x) denote the well‐known 1‐norm of x∈Rn. In this note we analyse the kth moment of the ratio L1 (D−1z) and its asymptotics in special cases, where z is uniformly distributed over the unit hypersphere. Conceptually, L1 (D−1z) can be seen as the (weighted) length, measured along fixed orientations, of a path connecting any two points relative to their straight line distance.