bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental insights into laser diffraction particle sizing of fine‐grained sediments for use in palaeoceanography
Authors: JONKERS LUKAS , PRINS MAARTEN A. , BRUMMER GEERT‐JAN A. , KONERT MARTIN , LOUGHEED BRYAN C.
Published: May 2009

Grain‐size measurements of fine‐grained sediments based on laser diffraction may contain spurious information due to the over‐estimation of the size and proportion of platy particles. Consequently, some regard the use of laser diffraction particle sizing in palaeoceanography inappropriate. Here, it is shown experimentally that such concerns are not warranted. Laser diffraction particle sizing is known to be fast, precise and allows for detailed particle sizing over a broad size range; it is therefore potentially a very powerful technique if the complications associated with it can be overcome. As most sediments are mixtures of different components transported by different mechanisms, inferences of past environmental parameters require decomposition of the grain‐size record in question. Useful decomposition can only be performed if changes in the contribution of the components are registered predictably by the measuring device. This study reports on mixing experiments which show that the Fritsch A22 laser diffraction particle sizer does indeed register small changes in the contribution of the mixing components in a predictable way. Mixing proportions estimated from the measurements do, however, differ from the initial mixing proportions, but these can be converted with only small errors. Application of the conversion equations to a North Atlantic grain‐size record that showed consistent slowdown of deep‐ocean circulation in response to millennial scale ice‐rafting events during the last glacial does not quantitatively affect the original inferences. Laser diffraction particle sizing of fine‐grained sediments therefore yields reproducible and useful data for palaeoceanographic reconstructions.
Enhancing outcomes in patients with bipolar disorder: results from the Bipolar Disorder Center for Pennsylvanians Study
Authors: Fagiolini Andrea , Frank Ellen , Axelson David A , Birmaher Boris , Cheng Yu , Curet David E , Friedman Edward S , Gildengers Ariel G , Goldstein Tina , Grochocinski Victoria J , Houck Patricia R , Stofko Mary G , Thase Michael E , Thompson Wesley K , Turkin Scott R , Kupfer David J
Published: May 2009

Introduction:  We developed models of Specialized Care for Bipolar Disorder (SCBD) and a psychosocial treatment [Enhanced Clinical Intervention (ECI)] that is delivered in combination with SCBD. We investigated whether SCBD and ECI + SCBD are able to improve outcomes and reduce health disparities for young and elderly individuals, African Americans, and rural residents with bipolar disorder.

Method:  Subjects were 463 individuals with bipolar disorder, type I, II, or not otherwise specified, or schizoaffective disorder, bipolar type, randomly assigned to SCBD or ECI + SCBD and followed longitudinally for a period of one to three years at four clinical sites.

Results:  Both treatment groups significantly improved over time, with no significant differences based on age, race, or place of residence, except for significantly greater improvement among elderly versus adult subjects. Improvement in quality of life was greater in the ECI + SCBD group. Of the 299 participants who were symptomatic at study entry, 213 achieved recovery within 24 months, during which 86 of the 213 subjects developed a new episode. No significant difference was found for race, place of residence, or age between the participants who experienced a recurrence and those who did not. However, the adolescent patients were less likely than the adult and elderly patients to experience a recurrence.

Conclusion:  This study demonstrated the effectiveness of SCBD and the additional benefit of ECI independent of age, race, or place of residence. It also demonstrated that new mood episodes are frequent in individuals with bipolar disorder who achieve recovery and are likely to occur in spite of specialized, guideline‐based treatments.
Association of parathyroid hormone‐like hormone (PTHLH) and its receptor (PTHR1) with the number of functional and inverted teats in pigs
Authors: Tetzlaff S. , Chomdej S. , Jonas E. , Ponsuksili S. , Murani E. , Phatsara C. , Schellander K. , Wimmers K.
Published: May 2009

Parathyroid hormone‐like hormone gene (PTHLH) and its receptor, parathyroid hormone/ parathyroid hormone‐like hormone receptor 1 (PTHR1), play a role in epithelial mesenchymal interactions during growth and differentiation of different tissues and anatomic structures, including teats. Therefore, PTHLH and PTHR1 were evaluated as functional candidate genes for their effects on number and shape of teats in pigs. In particular, focus was on the occurrence and number of inverted teats, the most frequent and economically relevant teat developmental defect in pigs. For this purpose, association and linkage of the PTHLH gene and the PTHR1 gene with inverted teat defect and the total number of teats and inverted teats were studied in an experimental Duroc and Berlin Miniature pig (DUMI) population. Polymorphism C1819T of PTHR1 was significantly associated with inverted teat phenotype (p = 0.014), total number of teats (p = 0.047) and was close to significance with the number of inverted teats (p = 0.078). Polymorphism C375T of PTHLH was close to significance with the inverted teat phenotype (p = 0.122) and showed no significant association with the total number of teats (p = 0.621) and the number of inverted teats (p = 0.256) in the DUMI population. Association analyses were also performed for combined effects of PTHLH and PTHR1 in order to address potential interaction, however, revealed no indication of effects of interaction. The function, position and the association shown here promote PTHR1 as a candidate gene for number of teats and in particular for affection by and number of inverted teats.
A whole genome scan to map QTL for milk production traits and somatic cell score in Canadian Holstein bulls
Authors: Kolbehdari D. , Wang Z. , Grant J.R. , Murdoch B. , Prasad A. , Xiu Z. , Marques E. , Stothard P. , Moore S.S.
Published: May 2009

The detection and mapping of genetic markers linked to quantitative trait loci (QTL) can be utilized to enhance genetic improvement of livestock populations. With the completion of the bovine genome sequence assembly, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) assays spanning the whole bovine genome and research work on large scale identification, validation and analysis of genotypic variation in cattle has become possible. The objective of the present study was to perform a whole genome scan to identify and map QTL affecting milk production traits and somatic cell scores using linkage disequilibrium (LD) regression and 1536 SNP markers. Three and 18 SNP were found to be associated with only milk yield (MY) at a genome and chromosome wise significance (p < 0.05) level respectively. Among the 21 significant SNP, 16 were in a region reported to have QTL for MY in other dairy cattle populations and while the rest five were new QTL finding. Four SNP out of 21 are significant for the milk production traits (MY, fat yield, protein yield (PY), and milk contents) in the present study. Six and nine SNP were associated with PY at a genome and chromosome wise significant (p < 0.05) level respectively. Three and 17 SNP were found to be associated with FY at a genome and chromosome wise significant (p < 0.05) level. Five and seven SNP were mapped with somatic cell score at a genome and chromosome wise significant (p < 0.05) level respectively. The results of this study have revealed QTL for MY, PY, protein percentage, FY, fat percentage, somatic cell score and persistency of milk in the Canadian dairy cattle population. The chromosome regions identified in this study should be further investigated to potentially identify the causative mutations underlying the QTL.
Deconstructing latitudinal species richness patterns in the ocean: does larval development hold the clue?
Authors: Fernández Miriam , Astorga Anna , Navarrete Sergio A. , Valdovinos Claudio , Marquet Pablo A.
Published: May 2009

The consistent decrease in species richness with latitude shows several exceptions among marine organisms. We hypothesize that contrasting latitudinal diversity gradients can be explained by differences in critical life‐history attributes, such as mode of larval development (MLD). We deconstructed latitudinal species richness patterns of marine benthic invertebrates according to MLD to elucidate differences in patterns of species richness and to reveal underlying processes. The patterns of species richness were remarkably similar across taxa within MLD but differed between MLD. Species richness decreased polewards in planktotrophic species and increased in direct developers. Temperature explained most of the variation in species richness. Low temperature at high latitudes may generally favour direct developing species, but, together with low chlorophyll‐a concentration, limit the distribution of planktotrophic species. The contrasting influence of temperature on different MLDs might be explained by its effect on the length of planktonic life and on brooding costs.
Local adaptation and maladaptation to pollinators in a generalist geographic mosaic
Authors: Gómez José M. , Abdelaziz M. , Camacho J. P. M. , Muñoz‐Pajares A. J. , Perfectti F.
Published: May 2009

The Geographic Mosaic Theory of Coevolution predicts the occurrence of mosaics of interaction‐mediated local adaptations and maladaptations. Empirical support to this prediction has come mostly from specialist interactions. In contrast, local adaptation is considered highly unlikely in generalist interactions. In this study, we experimentally test local adaptation in a generalist plant‐pollinator geographic mosaic, by means of a transplant experiment in which plants coming from two evolutionary hotspots and two coldspots were offered to pollinators at the same four localities. Plants produced in the hotspots attracted more pollinators in all populations, whereas coldspot plants attracted fewer pollinators in all populations. Differences in adaptation were not related to genetic similarity between populations, suggesting that it was mainly due to spatial variation in previous selective regimes. Our experiment provides the first strong support for a spatially structured pattern of adaptation and maladaptation generated by a generalist free‐living mutualism.
A Qualitative Study on the Perceived Consequences of Poverty: Introducing Consequential Attributions as a Missing Link in Lay Thinking on Poverty
Authors: Loix Ellen , Pepermans Roland
Published: May 2009

In order to learn more about lay thinking on perceived consequences of poverty, a qualitative study was conducted using a combination of focus group interviews and in‐depth interviews (n = 61). The transcribed focus group and in‐depth interviews were then analysed. The results showed that lay people construct cognitive schemes about the consequences of poverty that are comparable to attributions about poverty. Accordingly, it is concluded that theorising on consequential attributions is a missing link in previous research on lay thinking about poverty.

En présentant les attributions de conséquence comme un maillon manquant dans l’étude de la pensée de sens commun sur la pauvreté et dans le but d’en apprendre plus sur cette pensée et, plus particulièrement sur la façon dont le sens commun perçoit les conséquences de la pauvreté, une étude qualitative a été conduite en combinant des interviews par focus group et des entretiens en profondeur (n = 61). Ce matériel a été retranscrit puis analysé. Les résultats montrent que le sens commun construit des schèmes cognitifs à propos des conséquences de la pauvreté comparables aux attributions à propos de la pauvreté. En conséquence, on peut conclure que la théorisation sur les attributions de conséquence est un chaînon manquant dans les premières recherches sur la pensée de sens commun à propos de la pauvreté.
THIS ARTICLE HAS BEEN RETRACTED: Enumeration of objects and substances in non‐human primates: experiments with brown lemurs (Eulemur fulvus)
Authors: Mahajan Neha , Barnes Jennifer L. , Blanco Marissa , Santos Laurie R.
Published: May 2009

Both human infants and adult non‐human primates share the capacity to track small numbers of objects across time and occlusion. The question now facing developmental and comparative psychologists is whether similar mechanisms give rise to this capacity across the two populations. Here, we explore whether non‐human primates’ object tracking abilities are subject to the same constraints as those of human infants. In particular, we examine whether one primate species, the brown lemur (Eulemur fulvus), also fails to represent and enumerate objects when they behave non‐rigidly or non‐cohesively. We presented lemurs with a series of expectancy violation studies involving simple 1 + 1 addition events in which we varied the entities to be enumerated. Like infants, lemurs successfully enumerated the two objects when those objects were rigid, cohesive individuals, but failed to enumerate similar‐looking non‐rigid piles of sand. In contrast to human infants, however, lemurs successfully enumerated non‐cohesive objects that broke into multiple pieces. These results are discussed in light of recent theories about object processing in human infants and adults.
Genetic architecture of verbal abilities in children and adolescents
Authors: Hoekstra Rosa A. , Bartels Meike , van Leeuwen Marieke , Boomsma Dorret I.
Published: May 2009

The etiology of individual differences in general verbal ability, verbal learning and letter and category fluency were examined in two independent samples of 9‐ and 18‐year‐old twin pairs and their siblings. In both age groups, we observed strong familial resemblance for general verbal ability and moderate familial resemblance for verbal learning, letter and category fluency. All familial resemblance was explained by genetic factors. There was significant covariance among the tests, which was stronger in magnitude in the adolescent cohort. The covariance was mainly explained by genetic effects shared by subtests, both in middle childhood and in late adolescence. In addition to a shared set of genes that influenced all phenotypes, there were also genetic influences specific to the different verbal phenotypes.
INDIVIDUALISM AND ANARCHY IN LITERATURE: FRIEDRICH NIETZSCHE AND HIS PHILOSOPHY
Authors: SCHURÉ EDOUARD
Published: May 2009

La Revue des deux mondes (1895)Translated by Alla Zayenchik and Nir Buchler
NIETZSCHISM
Authors: REBELL HUGHES
Published: May 2009

Le Culte des Idoles (1899)Translated by Ali Nematollahy
THE NOTION OF HIERARCHY IN NIETZSCHE'S WORK
Authors: DE GAULTIER JULES
Published: May 2009

Revue Hebdomadaire (1901)Translated by Erin Lamm
NIETZSCHE'S SOCIAL VIEWS (1876–82)
Authors: ANDLER CHARLES
Published: May 2009

La Revue du Mois (1910)Translated by Helene Erlichson‐Kloehn
Longitudinal Analysis of Early Semantic Networks
Authors: Hills Thomas T. , Maouene Mounir , Maouene Josita , Sheya Adam , Smith Linda
Published: May 2009

Analyses of adult semantic networks suggest a learning mechanism involving preferential attachment: A word is more likely to enter the lexicon the more connected the known words to which it is related. We introduce and test two alternative growth principles: preferential acquisition—words enter the lexicon not because they are related to well-connected words, but because they connect well to other words in the learning environment—and the lure of the associates—new words are favored in proportion to their connections with known words. We tested these alternative principles using longitudinal analyses of developing networks of 130 nouns children learn prior to the age of 30 months. We tested both networks with links between words represented by features and networks with links represented by associations. The feature networks did not predict age of acquisition using any growth model. The associative networks grew by preferential acquisition, with the best model incorporating word frequency, number of phonological neighbors, and connectedness of the new word to words in the learning environment, as operationalized by connectedness to words typically acquired by the age of 30 months.
English as a lingua franca: analyzing research frameworks in international English, world Englishes, and ELF
Authors: PAKIR ANNE
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT:  This paper considers the problems, the properties, and the prospects of using ‘English as a lingua franca’ as a construct and as a reality. It will therefore focus on what is meant by the term ‘lingua franca’, what is represented as a ‘lingua franca’, and what the debates are about English as a lingua franca. The point of departure is Kachru's description of English as a lingua franca as ‘a communicative tool of immense power’. How this tool is used in the Outer Circle and elsewhere has been addressed elsewhere, but the discussion is an attempt to examine the issues in Singapore, where English has indeed become an international lingua franca as well as a national lingua franca for Singaporeans. The hope is that this paper will contribute to the ongoing dialog by asking questions rather than offering definitive answers to a very complex emergent phenomenon: the character and traits of English as a lingua franca in the 21st century and the sociolinguistic realities of its existence.
Interregional Disparities in Productivity and the Choice of Fiscal Regime
Authors: TERAI KIMIKO
Published: May 2009

Two districts with divergent productivity levels engage in policy‐making on the provision of local public goods that enhance future income and hence create a dynamic linkage across periods. The policy choices of district representatives are derived under alternative fiscal systems, and the relative merits of the systems are evaluated. It is predicted that a decentralized system is more likely to be selected in a more equal society. On the other hand, when a great deal of benefit spills over from a local public good, or when policy makers are expected to care solely about the immediate effects of their decisions on their districts, a centralized system is more likely to be selected.
Oil industry, wild meat trade and roads: indirect effects of oil extraction activities in a protected area in north‐eastern Ecuador
Authors: Suárez E. , Morales M. , Cueva R. , Utreras Bucheli V. , Zapata‐Ríos G. , Toral E. , Torres J. , Prado W. , Vargas Olalla J.
Published: May 2009

Starting in 1994, a wholesale wild meat market developed in north‐eastern Ecuador, involving Waorani and Kichwa people in the area of influence of a road built to facilitate oil extraction within Yasuní National Park. Between 2005 and 2007, we recorded the trade of 11 717 kg of wild meat in this market, with pacas Cuniculus paca, white‐lipped peccaries Tayassu pecari, collared peccaries Pecari tajacu and woolly monkeys Lagothrix poeppiggi accounting for 80% of the total biomass. Almost half of the wild meat brought to the market was transported by dealers for resale at restaurants in Tena, a medium‐sized town 234 km west of the market. Prices of wild meat were 1.3–2 times higher than the price of meat of domestic animals, suggesting that it is a different commodity and not a supplementary protein source in the urban areas where it is consumed. The actual price of transportation between the local communities and the market was a significant predictor of the amount of meat sold in Pompeya. Based on this relationship the Waorani hunters sold exceptionally larger amounts of wild meat than would be expected if they would not have the transportation subsidies provided by the oil companies. Although the scale of this wild meat wholesale market is still relatively small, its dynamic reflects the complex interactions that emerge as the overriding influence of oil companies or other private industries modify the culture and subsistence patterns of marginalized indigenous groups, increasing their potential impacts on wildlife and natural ecosystems.
Population history of the Amazonian one‐lined pencilfish based on intron DNA data
Authors: Sistrom M. J. , Chao N. L. , Beheregaray L. B.
Published: May 2009

The evolutionary history of Amazonian organisms is generally poorly understood. This is particularly true for small floodplain fish species that show reduced dispersal capabilities. The one‐lined pencilfish Nannostomus unifasciatus (family Lebiasinidae) is a small fish found in flooded forests of the Rio Negro Floodplain (RNF) in central Amazonia, Brazil. We used a large number of samples collected throughout the species distribution in the RNF and in its headwaters and DNA data from the second intron of the S7 ribosomal protein to reconstruct the phylogeography of N. unifasciatus. Two markedly distinct phylogroups of N. unifasciatus were detected in the RNF. Although these lineages are largely allopatric, they remain reproductively isolated in regions where they overlap, suggesting cryptic speciation in this group in the Rio Negro basin. Coalescent‐based statistical methods suggest that the history of these populations was dominated by a Miocene fragmentation of the species in the headwaters of the basin that originated the two phylogroups, followed by recent events of demographic and range expansions in the floodplain. This pattern is discussed within the context of the geomorphologic history of the region, especially geotectonics, and of marine incursions. Our results match the predictions of the palaeogeography hypothesis of speciation and outline the usefulness of an intron DNA marker to reconstruct population history of a central Amazonian fish. Because N. unifasciatus is harvested commercially in the ornamental fishery of the RNF, the two species and limited dispersal capacity between nearby populations identified here are also important to develop sound management decisions in the region.
Multiple paternity in the European hedgehog
Authors: Moran S. , Turner P. D. , O'Reilly C.
Published: May 2009

Previous observations have suggested that European hedgehogs Erinaceus europaeus are promiscuous, although there have been no direct studies of the mating system to confirm this. In this study, the genetic mating system of the European hedgehog was assessed by analysing mother–offspring groups using six polymorphic microsatellite loci. Evidence of multiple paternity was found in two of five litters analysed and therefore demonstrates the occurrence of polyandry in wild populations of hedgehogs.
Levetiracetam therapy for treatment of choreoathetosis in dyskinetic cerebral palsy
Authors: VLES G F , HENDRIKSEN J G , VISSCHERS A , SPETH L , NICOLAI J , VLES J S H
Published: May 2009

Dyskinetic cerebral palsy (CP) is a movement disorder that is difficult to treat and which causes major disability. We report on two female patients (aged 5y and 8y) who experienced severe perinatal asphyxia and developed dyskinetic CP, clinically characterized by choreoathetosis. Neuropsychological testing of these children showed a low average developmental quotient and no attentional deficit. Monotherapy with levetiracetam was initiated to improve balance control and fine motor skills. Treatment was evaluated by use of video and the Visual Analog Scale. In both children an impressive improvement of balance control and fine motor skills was observed. No side effect occurred. Furthermore, both patients showed more interest and pleasure during activities according to their parents. In a recent multidisciplinary evaluation of the initiated therapy, the parents, the therapist, and the rehabilitation doctor all confirmed that the effect initially observed was still present at 14 and 26 months later. To our knowledge, this report on two patients with dyskinetic CP is the first suggesting that levetiracetam may offer an alternative to the standard therapy of involuntary, uncontrolled movements in this group of patients.
Long‐term efficacy and tolerability of 4‐monthly versus yearly botulinum toxin type A treatment for lower‐limb spasticity in children with cerebral palsy
Authors: KAŇOVSKÝ PETR , BAREŠ MARTIN , SEVERA STANISLAV , RICHARDSON ALAN ,   ON BEHALF OF THE DYSPORT PAEDIATRIC LIMB SPASTICITY STUDY GROUP
Published: May 2009

In this study, we compared the long‐term efficacy and tolerability of two dosage regimens of the potent botulinum toxin type A (BoNT‐A; Dysport; Ipsen Ltd, Slough, UK) in children with cerebral palsy (CP) and lower‐limb spasticity. Children aged 1 to 8 years with diplegic CP who were able to walk (aided or unaided) were randomized (1:1) to 30 LD50 units/kg total body weight of BoNT‐A (injected into gastrocnemius muscles) every 4 months or once yearly for 2 years in this multicentre, assessor‐blinded, parallel‐group study. In the 4‐monthly group (n=110, 39 males, 71 females), mean age was 3 years 8 months (SD 1y 6mo, range 1–8y). In the yearly group (n=104, 47 males, 57 females), mean age was 4 years 4 months (SD 1y 6mo, range 2–8y). Both treatment groups had similar baseline Gross Motor Function Measure scores. At month 28 (primary endpoint; intention‐to‐treat group), median maximum passive ankle dorsiflexion was 12.00° in the 4‐monthly and 11.00° in the yearly group. Between‐group difference of 1.67° was not statistically significant (p=0.055). Other efficacy endpoints showed no significant difference between the regimens. The results of the study do not allow a clear conclusion of the preferred injection regimen.
CGRP stimulation of iNOS and NO release from trigeminal ganglion glial cells involves mitogen‐activated protein kinase pathways
Authors: Vause C. V. , Durham P. L.
Published: May 2009

Clinical and basic science data support an integral role of calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) in the pathophysiology of temporomandibular joint disorders. Recently, we have shown that CGRP can stimulate the synthesis and release of nitric oxide (NO) from trigeminal ganglion glial cells. The goal of this study was to determine the role of mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways in CGRP regulation of iNOS expression and NO release from cultured trigeminal ganglion glial cells from Sprague–Dawley rats. CGRP treatment for 2 h significantly increased activity of the MAPK reporter genes, Elk, ATF‐2, and CHOP. In addition, CGRP increased nuclear staining for the active forms of the MAPKs: extracellular signal‐regulated kinase, c‐Jun amino‐terminal kinase, and p38. This stimulatory event was not observed in cultures pre‐treated with the CGRP receptor antagonist peptide CGRP8–37. Similarly, pre‐treatment with selective MAPK inhibitors repressed increases in reporter gene activity as well as CGRP‐induced increases in iNOS expression and NO release mediated by MAPKs. In addition, over‐expression of MAPK kinase 1 (MEK1), MEK3, MEK6, and MEK kinase significantly increased iNOS expression and NO production in glial cells. Results from our study provide evidence that CGRP binding to its receptor can stimulate iNOS gene expression via activation of MAPK pathways in trigeminal ganglion glial cells.
Linkages and Connections: A Framework for Research in Information and Communication Technologies, Regional Integration, and Development
Authors: Akpan‐Obong Patience , Parmentier Mary Jane C.
Published: May 2009

This article examines the relationship between information and communication technologies (ICTs) and regional integration as a pathway to socioeconomic development in Africa and South America. Both regions share a colonial legacy often characterized by stronger economic ties to the developed world than within the regions. In recent decades, regional organizations have been involved in efforts to strengthen the infrastructure for ICTs, as well as the enhancement of economic and political integration as strategies to achieve development. However, the literature continues to show distinct research agendas that unwittingly overlook the connections between these areas. This article proposes a theoretical framework combining research on integration, ICTs, and development. It provides a brief analysis of each region and its ICT initiatives, the potential impact on regional integration, and how this relates to development. We suggest possible applications of the framework to identify and research the processes of integration and expected outcomes of development.
Synthesis and Characterization of Bulk, Vitreous Cadmium Germanium Arsenide
Authors: Johnson Bradley R. , Riley Brian J. , Sundaram Shanmugavelayutham K. , Crum Jarrod V. , Henager Jr. Charles H. , Zhang Yanwen , Shutthanandan Vaithiyalingam , Seifert Carolyn E. , Van Ginhoven Renee M. , Chamberlin Clyde E. , Rockett Angus A. , Hebert Damon N. , Aquino Angel R.
Published: May 2009

Cadmium germanium diarsenide glasses were synthesized in bulk form (∼2.4 cm3) using procedures adapted from the literature. Several issues involved in the fabrication and quenching of amorphous CdGexAs2 (x=0.45, 0.65, 0.85, and 1.00, where x is the molar ratio of Ge to 1 mol of Cd) are described. An innovative processing route is presented to enable fabrication of high‐purity, vitreous, crack‐free ingots with sizes up to 10 mm diameter, and 30–40 mm long. Specimens from selected ingots were characterized using thermal analysis, optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, particle‐induced X‐ray emission, Rutherford backscattering, secondary ion mass spectrometry, X‐ray diffraction, density, and optical spectroscopy. Variations in properties as a function of processing conditions and composition are described. Results show that the density of defect states in the middle of the band gap and near the band edges can be decreased three ways: through suitable control of the processing conditions, by doping the material with hydrogen, and by increasing the concentration of Ge in the glass.
Ti3+‐Free Titanoborophosphate Glasses as Molding Glasses with High Refractive Indices
Authors: Hashimoto Tadanori , Murakami Mika , Nasu Hiroyuki , Ishihara Atsushi , Kunii Koki
Published: May 2009

Ti3+‐free titanoborophosphate TiO2–B2O3–P2O5 (TBP)‐based glasses were produced in order to obtain glasses with low Tg (<600°C), high nd (>1.8), and a short postannealing (PA) time (less than a few days). In addition, TBP‐based glasses with low Tg (<570°C), high nd (>1.85), and a short PA time were successfully developed with the substitution of Li2O and ZnO for B2O3. Some glasses had very suitable properties for precision glass molding (Tg=553°C, nd=1.851, PA time=4 days for 6Li2O·6ZnO·55TiO2·6B2O3·27P2O5 glass; Tg=563°C, nd=1.880, PA time=2 days for 5Li2O·60TiO2·10B2O3·25P2O5 glass; Tg=566°C, nd=1.885, PA time=3 days for 2.5Li2O·2.5ZnO·60TiO2·10B2O3·25P2O5 glass; and Tg=567°C, nd=1.890, PA time=1 day for 5Li2O·5ZnO·60TiO2·5B2O3·25P2O5 glass). The λ70% of TBP‐based glasses with nd>1.85 and commercially available molding glasses with nd>1.85 are 40–41 and 44–50, respectively, which means that these new glasses have even higher transparency in the visible region than those currently on the market. Thus, TBP‐based glasses are considered to be promising materials as molding glasses with high transparency, low Tg, and high nd.
Molten Salt Synthesis, Characterization, and Luminescence Properties of Gd2MO6:Eu3+ (M=W, Mo) Phosphors
Authors: Lei Fang , Yan Bing , Chen Hao Hong , Zhao Jing Tai
Published: May 2009

Large‐scale micro‐ and nano‐sized Eu3+‐doped gadolinium tungstate and molybdate Gd2MO6:Eu3+ (M=Mo, W) red phosphors with special morphologies have been successfully prepared via an efficient molten salt synthesis (MSS) method at 950°C for 6 h using NaCl and as the reaction medium. The results of X‐ray powder diffraction patterns indicate that Gd2MoO6 and Gd2WO6 have monoclinic structures. The scanning electronic microscope and transmission electron microscope studies revealed that the samples of Gd2WO6:Eu3+ and Gd2MoO6:Eu3+ phosphors obtained by the MSS method in NaCl medium have a sphere‐like morphology, and the corresponding samples obtained in KCl medium have rod‐like morphologies. For the Gd2MoO6:Eu3+ phosphor obtained in NaCl and KCl media, the sphere‐like particles had an average grain size of ∼100 nm, and the size of the rod‐like particles ranged from 200 to 400 nm in length, and ∼150 nm in width, respectively. Compared with the same products obtained by the solid‐state reaction we had reported, the luminescent properties of Gd2MO6:Eu3+ (M=Mo, W) are largely dependent on their morphology and crystal size prepared using different fluxes of NaCl and KCl. The reaction time and temperature also play an important role in the crystallization of the samples.
Microwave Dielectric Properties of Ti‐Substituted Bi2 (Zn2/3Nb4/3)O7 Pyrochlores at Cryogenic Temperatures
Authors: Sudheendran Kooriyattil , Raju Kanakkappillavila Chinnayya James , Jacob Mohan Vadakkedam
Published: May 2009

Monoclinic pyrochlore ceramic Bi2Zn2/3−x/3Nb4/3−2x/3TixO7 (M–BZN) with x=0–0.4 is synthesized and the structure and microwave cryogenic properties are scrutinized. The dielectric constant (ɛ′) and loss tangent (tanδ) of these ceramics are measured at a frequency of 3 GHz and temperature range of 15–300 K. With an increase in x value from 0 to 0.4, the dielectric constant and dielectric loss tangent of the investigated materials increase from 70 to 114 and 0.009 to 0.061, respectively. The Ti‐substituted ceramics show an increase in dielectric constant with temperature, and the loss tangent shows a peak around 200 K. The peak in the dielectric loss tangent becomes more prominent with an increase of Ti content. The temperature where the dielectric loss tangent peak appears is found to be decreasing slightly with an increase of titanium doping. The observed dielectric characteristics of the titanium‐doped M–BZN ceramics are attributed to the presence of the relaxation in these materials, originating from the disorder caused by the Ti4+ substitution.
Colloidal Processing of Glass–Ceramics for Laminated Object Manufacturing
Authors: Gomes Cynthia M. , Rambo Carlos R. , De Oliveira Antonio Pedro Novaes , Hotza Dachamir , Gouvêa Douglas , Travitzky Nahum , Greil Peter
Published: May 2009

Green tapes of Li2O–ZrO2–SiO2–Al2O3 (LZSA) parent glass were produced by aqueous tape casting as the starting material for the laminated object manufacturing (LOM) process. The rheological behavior of the powder suspensions in aqueous media, as well as the mechanical properties of the cast tapes, was evaluated. According to ξ potential measurements, the LZSA glass powder particles showed acid surface characteristics and an IEP of around 4 when in aqueous media. The critical volume fraction of solids was about 72 wt% (27 vol%), which hindered the processability of more concentrated slurries. The glass particles also showed an anisometric profile, which contributed to an increase in the interactions between particles during flow. Therefore, the suspensions could not be processed at high solids loadings. Aqueous‐based glass suspensions were also characterized by shear thickening after the addition of dispersants. Three slurry compositions were formulated, suitable green tapes were cast, and tapes were successfully laminated by LOM to a gear wheel geometry. A higher tensile strength of the green tapes corresponded to a higher tensile strength of the laminates. Thermal treatment was then applied to the laminates: pyrolysis at 525°C, sintering at 700°C for 1 h, and crystallization at 850°C for 30 min. A 20% volumetric shrinkage was observed, but no surface flaws or inhomogeneous areas were detected. The sintered part maintained the curved edges and internal profile after heat treatment.
Formation of Continuous Pore Structures in Si–C–O Fibers by Adjusting the Melt Spinning Condition of a Polycarbosilane–Polysiloxane Polymer Blend
Authors: Kita Ken'ichiro , Narisawa Masaki , Mabuchi Hiroshi , Itoh Masayoshi , Sugimoto Masaki , Yoshikawa Masahito
Published: May 2009

A polymer blend containing polycarbosilane (PCS) and 15 mass% of polyhydromethylsiloxane (H‐oil) was prepared and the properties of the polymer melt were investigated in order to clarify the mechanisms of continuous pore formation. Melt viscosity decreased as the H‐oil content increased. Moreover, the saturation of the plasticizer effect of H‐oil on the viscosity and apparent turbidity of the melting polymer suggested that the compatibility of H‐oil to PCS in melting was limited at 15 mass%. Gas chromatography data after heating showed that an amount of evolved hydrogen at 573 K was increased by 15 mass% of H‐oil addition. The fibers formed by the melt‐spun of the polymer blend at 578 K mainly possessed a single pore at the center of the fibers' cross section. On the other hand, the fibers melt‐spun at 543 K usually included multiple pores, and the fibers melt‐spun at 538 K included a number of tiny pores. It is proposed that the evolved hydrogen can be dissolved in the polymer melt, and the desaturation process of the dissolved gas during the fiber spinning with a sudden temperature reduction likely determined the size and location of pores in the fibers.
Exo70‐Mediated Recruitment of Nucleoporin Nup62 at the Leading Edge of Migrating Cells is Required for Cell Migration
Authors: Hubert Thomas , Vandekerckhove Joël , Gettemans Jan
Published: May 2009

Nucleoporin Nup62 localizes at the central channel of the nuclear pore complex and is essential for nucleocytoplasmic transport. Through its FG‐repeat domain, Nup62 regulates nuclear pore permeability and binds nuclear transport receptors. Here, we report that Nup62 interacts directly with Exo70 and colocalizes with Exo70 at the leading edge of migrating cells. Nup62 binds the N‐terminal domain of Exo70 through its coiled‐coil domain but not through its FG‐repeat domain. Selective inhibition of leading edge Nup62 using RNA interference significantly reduces cell migration. Furthermore, Exo70 recruits Nup62 at the plasma membrane and at filopodia. Removal of the Exo70‐binding domain of Nup62 prevents leading edge localization of Nup62. Analogous to Exo70, Nup62 cycles between the plasma membrane and the perinuclear recycling compartment. Altogether, we propose that Nup62 not solely regulates access to the cell nucleus, but additionally functions in conjunction with Exo70, a key regulator of exocytosis and actin dynamics, at the leading edge of migrating cells.
What if it is the other way around? Early introduction of peanut and fish seems to be better than avoidance
Authors: Wennergren Göran
Published: May 2009

For many years, the advice to prevent food allergy was to postpone the introduction of allergens like egg, fish and peanut. However, elimination of food allergens during pregnancy and infancy failed to prevent food allergy. Instead, several studies indicate that early introduction of food like fish and peanuts may be beneficial. The most compelling illustration of this has been presented for peanuts. The prevalence of peanut allergy is lower in children in Israel than in the UK, despite introduction of peanut during infancy in Israel. Other studies have reported that early introduction of fish reduced the risk of allergic sensitization and allergic diseases like eczema.

Conclusion:  Early introduction rather than avoidance may be a better strategy for the prevention of food allergy. The mechanism may be that early introduction of food allergens during infancy might induce tolerance, thereby preventing the development of allergy.
Fire, aridity and seed banks. What does seed bank composition reveal about community processes in fire‐prone desert?
Authors: Wright Boyd R. , Clarke Peter J.
Published: May 2009

Questions: The relationship between fire, aridity and seed banks is poorly understood in plant community ecology. We tested whether there was a close correspondence between the seed bank and standing vegetation composition with time‐since‐fire in a desert. We also examined whether longer‐lived species showed seed limitation relative to more ephemeral species, as this could influence grass‐woody ratios in a major biome.

Location: Dune hummock grasslands/shrublands of central Australia.

Methods: The effects of time‐since‐fire on floristic and functional group composition were examined by comparing plots unburned since 1984 against plots that had been burned in 2002. Three methods were used to quantify seed abundances: a germination trial using heat and smoke application, a flotation method, and a sieving method.

Results: Seed bank densities were very low (<3000 m−2). Species similarity between the seed bank and standing vegetation was high at sites recently burned (0.86) and low in sites long‐since burned (0.52). The relative abundance of ephemeral species in the seed bank peaked in recently burned plots, but the relative abundance of seeds of woody species did not match the pattern of abundance in the standing vegetation. Remarkably, the dominant perennial grasses and woody species were either absent from the seed bank or present at extremely low abundances.

Discussion: Differences in the relative abundance of ephemeral species between standing vegetation and seed bank relate to the post‐fire succession process. The small soil pool of seed from woody species may be explained by allocation to belowground carbohydrate storage over seed production. Field observations suggest, however, that production of strongly dormant seed can be prolific and that high levels of seed predation make this system strongly seed‐limited. The discovery of this seed bank syndrome indicates that shifts in grass‐woody ratios can be driven by the juxtaposition of unpredictable seed rain and fire events in these desert dunes. However, estimates of grass‐woody ratios due to changing fire regimes will be difficult to predict.
What's Political in Seventeenth‐Century Women's Political Writing?
Authors: Suzuki Mihoko
Published: May 2009

Recent scholarship on women's writing in seventeenth‐century England has emphasized the political aspect of these texts. While scholars of Anne Bradstreet have generally praised her late lyrics at the expense of her narrative history ‘The Four Monarchies’, this essay seeks to place the ‘Four Monarchies’ in the context of political writings by seventeenth‐century English women writers such as Margaret Cavendish, Anne Clifford, Brilliana Harley, and especially her contemporaries writing in Old England concerning the English Civil Wars, such as Elizabeth Poole, Anna Trapnel, Eleanor Davies, and Mary Cary.
The International Debate on Geographical Indications (GIs): The Point of View of the Global Coalition of GI Producers—oriGIn
Authors: Vittori Massimo
Published: May 2009

Geographical indications (GIs) have progressively become a global phenomenon. The Agreement on Trade‐Related Aspects of Intellectual Property has recognized GIs as a major category of intellectual property. Some 76 countries protect GIs today through specific legal systems (commonly referred to as sui generis), which provide for the registration of geographical names as a separate kind of intellectual property right. However, from the point of view of producers, several issues remain to be clarified in the international debate over GIs. First of all, the international rules do not provide the interested parties with effective legal remedies to stop infringements. As a result, unlawful uses of protected names have been increasing over the years. Monitoring GIs and reaching out to relevant enforcement authorities to denounce any eventual abuse are becoming complex and expensive tasks. Finally, in several countries, in spite of a tremendous potential, producers and policy‐makers have not yet fully grasped the role of GI in terms of sustainable development. In light of the above, the purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the major issues characterizing the international debate over GIs and present the strategy adopted by the global coalition of GI producers—oriGIn—to address those problems.
Geographical Indications and the TRIPS Agreement: What Protection is Provided to Geographical Indications in WTO Members?
Authors: Kireeva Irina , O'Connor Bernard
Published: May 2009

The World Trade Organization (WTO) Agreement on Trade‐Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights was the first multilateral international treaty (although not the first international treaty) to define and protect geographical indications (GIs) as a specific intellectual property type. There is some debate as to whether the agreement specifies the manner in which WTO members are to implement the protection or mandates a separate system for the protection of GIs (so‐called “sui generis” protection). Rather than contributing further to this debate, this article provides a comprehensive overview of the means by which various WTO members have implemented the commitment to protect national and foreign GIs. In addition, the article looks at some examples of protected names in different jurisdictions and some of the problems encountered in registering GIs from outside the country effecting the protection.
Ca2+‐Binding Proteins in Dogs with Heart Failure: Effects of Cardiac Contractility Modulation Electrical Signals
Authors: Gupta Ramesh C. , Mishra Sudhish , Rastogi Sharad , Wang Mengjum , Rousso Benny , Mika Yuval , Remppis Andrew , Sabbah Hani N.
Published: May 2009

Background: In dogs with heart failure (HF), chronic therapy with cardiac contractility modulation (CCM) electrical signals delivered to left ventricular (LV) muscle during the absolute refractory period improves LV function. This study examined the effects of CCM therapy on the expression of calcium (Ca2+)‐binding proteins (CBPs) in dogs with HF.

Methods and Results: Studies were performed in LV tissue from seven CCM‐treated HF dogs, seven untreated HF dogs, and six normal (NL) dogs. mRNA expression of S100A1, sorcin, presenillin‐1 (PS1), PS2, histidine‐rich Ca2+‐binding protein (HRC), and 18S ribosomal RNA (18S), a housekeeping gene, was measured using RT‐PCR. Protein levels of CBPs and calsequestrin (CSQ) were determined by Western blotting. No difference was observed in the expression of 18S and CSQ among study groups. Compared with NL, the expression of S100A1, sorcin, and HRC was decreased, whereas the expression of PS2 was increased in untreated HF dogs. CCM therapy normalized the expression of S100A1, sorcin, and PS2 but not of HRC. No change was seen in the expression of PS1 among study groups.

Conclusion: CCM therapy restores LV expression of S100A1, PS2, and sorcin. Normalization of CBPs may partly contribute to improved LV function in HF following CCM therapy.
CE: Continuing Education Article VASCULAR ACCESS MANAGEMENT II: AVF/AVG CANNULATION TECHNIQUES AND COMPLICATIONS
Authors: McCann Margaret , Einarsdottir Hildur , Van Waeleghem Jean Pierre , Murphy Fiona , Sedgwick John
Published: May 2009

This second article, in a three‐part Continuing Education (CE) series on Vascular Access Management, focuses on cannulation issues including complications relating to arteriovenous fistula and arteriovenous graft access. The first article (McCann et al. 2008) gave an overview of vascular access while the final article in this series will focus on central venous catheters (CVC).
Munronia yinggelingensis sp. nov. (Meliaceae) from Hainan, China
Authors: Zhang Rong‐Jing , Chen Hong‐Feng , Xing Fu‐Wu , Ye Yu‐Shi
Published: May 2009

Munronia yinggelingensis R. J. Zhang, Y. S. Ye & F. W. Xing, a new species of Meliaceae from Hainan, China, is described and illustrated. Notes are also presented on the phenology, ecology and conservation status of the new species. The new species was found growing in the valley rain forests of Yinggeling Nature Reserve at altitudes of 600 m a.s.l. in Gaofeng, Baisha County, Hainan Province, China. It is closely related to Munronia delavayi Franch., but differs in its entire or inconspicuously coarsely serrate margins of leaflets, longer inflorescence (8–30 cm), longer calyx lobes (5 mm), shorter coronal tube (1.2–1.5 cm), with white hairs on both sides, shorter coronal lobes (0.6–0.9 cm) and shorter stamen tube (1.8 cm).