bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Practice as Research: Foundations for a Community of Knowledge
Authors: Spatz Ben
Published: April 2012

This paper seeks to theorize embodied knowledge. If knowledge is power, then questions of “embodied knowledge” should be central to this conference. How and when is knowledge embodied? Under what conditions can embodied practice constitute knowledge? And what kind of practice-based “research” expands this kind of knowledge? Today, as references to embodied knowledge continue to multiply, it is essential that scholars arrive at a useful and rigorously theorized understanding of this concept that can satisfy both the demands of practice and the requirements of scholarship. This presentation intervenes in the ongoing debate on practice as research, with reference to the conversations of the ASTR working group on Performance as Research (of which I am part) and to two recent books published by Palgrave-Macmillan.
Power and the Body: Revisiting Dance and Theatre Aesthetic of Resistance in the Academy
Authors: Zenenga Praise
Published: April 2012

The Congress on Research in Dance (CORD's) thematic and structural concerns over the years, which seek to bring together dance and its allied fields of the performing arts (theatre, music, cinema, etc.), parallel the African aesthetic experience that emphasizes the interconnectedness and inseparability of theatre, dance, and music in performance. Theorizing on the self and the social, to examine the state of the profession, this paper offers an autoethnographic account not only of the contradictory ways in which personal and professional subjectivity is constructed but also of the performing body's power and capacity to reproduce and transform the world. The paper argues that, historically, the performing body of color constitutes a continuum of creative possibilities whose capacity to resist state and institutional hegemonic power has always manifested itself covertly or overtly. In conclusion, the paper celebrates a long history of the performing body of color's ability to double-speak. The performing body's ability to create ambivalent discourses that can be outwardly entertaining while secretly radical and deeply revolutionary has throughout history empowered the body of color to resist even the most repressive circumstances.
Doppler Characterization of a Mobile GNSS Receiver in Multipath Fading Channels
Authors: Sadrieh Seyed Nima , Broumandan Ali , Lachapelle Gérard
Published: April 2012

Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) Doppler measurements are commonly used for velocity-based relative positioning and aiding Inertial Navigation Systems (INS) in signal degraded environments. The aim of this paper is to characterise the Doppler measurements in GNSS harsh multipath environments. In multipath fading situations such as indoor and urban canyon environments, multipath components arrive to the receiver antenna from different paths and directions. These give rise to various Doppler shifts that cause errors in the velocity solution. In this work the Doppler measurements discrepancy characterised by Doppler spread in multipath environments is investigated. By assuming a ‘sphere of scatterers’ model and considering the antenna gain pattern, the theoretical Power Spectral Density (PSD) observed by a receiver is formulated. The theoretical findings are examined using two sets of measurements in dense multipath environments. Global Positioning System (GPS) live signals using non-isotropic antennas with different orientations are used for this purpose. Different motion directions are also examined using different data sets. An Assisted GPS (A-GPS) approach is utilised where the code phase and the navigation data bits are provided by a nearby outdoor antenna. By applying a ‘Block Processing’ technique, an epoch-by-epoch Doppler and velocity estimation is implemented. Herein, the Doppler and velocity measurements accuracy in addition to the Doppler spread characterization are studied. As shown both theoretically and experimentally, in harsh multipath environments the PSD of the observed signals is a function of the scatterers' geometry and the antenna gain pattern. The Doppler estimation accuracies in multipath and multipath-free cases are compared for different ranges of Carrier-to-Noise ratio (C/N0). Theoretical and experimental results revealed inaccurate Doppler estimation and poor Doppler-derived velocity solutions in dense multipath environments.
Multilocus sequence typing (MLST) analysis of 104Clostridium difficilestrains isolated from China
Authors: YAN Q. , ZHANG J. , CHEN C. , ZHOU H. , DU P. , CUI Z. , CEN R. , LIU L. , LI W. , CAO B. , LU J. , CHENG Y.
Published: April 2012

The phylogenetic and epidemic relationships of 104 clinical isolatesof Clostridium difficilefrom three hospitals of different geographical and population sources in China were investigated by multilocus sequence typing. Twenty-two sequence types (STs) were identified, four of which, ST117, ST118, ST119 and ST129, were novel. No geographically specific and host population-specific phylogenetic lineages were found and there was no correlation between geographical origin or host population and strain genotype. ST37 was the dominant type in our survey but the four novel STs underline the high genetic diversity and unique polymorphisms inC. difficilefrom China.
Climate variations and salmonellosis in northwest Russia: a time-series analysis
Authors: GRJIBOVSKI A. M. , BUSHUEVA V. , BOLTENKOV V. P. , BUZINOV R. V. , DEGTEVA G. N. , YURASOVA E. D. , NURSE J.
Published: April 2012

Associations between monthly counts of all laboratory-confirmed cases of salmonellosis in Arkhangelsk, northern Russia, from 1992 to 2008 and climatic variables with lags 0–2 were studied by three different models. We observed a linear association between the number of cases of salmonellosis and mean monthly temperature with a lag of 1 month across the whole range of temperatures. An increase of 1 °C was associated with a 2·04% [95% confidence interval (CI) 0·25–3·84], 1·84% (95% CI 0·06–3·63) and 2·32% (95% CI 0·38–4·27) increase in different models. Only one of the three models suggested an increase in the number of cases, by 0·24% (95% CI 0·02–0·46) with an increase in precipitation by 1 mm in the same month. Higher temperatures were associated with higher monthly counts of salmonellosis while the association with precipitation was less certain. The results may have implications for the future patterns of enteric infections in northern areas related to climate change.
The persisting burden of visceral leishmaniasis in Iraq: data of the National Surveillance System, 1990–2009
Authors: MAJEED B. , SOBEL J. , NAWAR A. , BADRI S. , MUSLIM H.
Published: April 2012

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is an endemic parasitic disease transmitted by the bite of sand flies. To describe trends and demographics of reported VL cases, we reviewed surveillance data from 1990–2009. Reported VL incidence per 100 000 population was 2·6 in 2007, 3·1 in 2008, and 4·8 in 2009, mostly in children aged <5 years. The number of cases varied greatly in step with prevailing economic and security conditions, raising concerns about the completeness and quality of surveillance data. Nevertheless, we conclude that VL remains an important endemic disease in Iraq and that surveillance system is recovering the capacity to detect cases as the country experiences greater stability. We recommend conducting formal entomological investigations, and evaluating existing control measures.
Process evaluation of an environmental and educational nutrition intervention in residential drug-treatment facilities
Authors: Cowan Jennifer A , Devine Carol M
Published: April 2012

Objective

To evaluate the implementation of a controlled, 6-week, environmental and educational intervention to improve dietary intake and body composition, and to study the association of implementation fidelity with diet and body composition outcomes.

Design

A process evaluation documented participation, dose of nutrition education delivered, participant satisfaction, fidelity and completeness of the food environment intervention implementation, and context through observations and interviews with staff and residents. Intervention sites were scored and categorized as high or low participation and implementation and compared on essential elements of the food environment and on diet and body composition outcomes.

Setting

Six urban residential drug-treatment facilities in Upstate New York.

Subjects

Fifty-five primarily black and white men in residential drug-treatment programmes.

Results

Participants were exposed to 94 % and 69 % of the educational and environmental elements, respectively. High implementation sites were significantly more likely to provide water and 100 % juice, offer fruit or vegetable salad, offer choices of fruits and vegetables, and limit fried foods. Mixed-model analysis of covariance revealed that participants in the high participation and implementation sites reported greater reductions in total energy, percentage of energy from sweets, daily servings of fats, oils and sweets, and BMI over the intervention period. Participants in low participation and implementation sites reported greater reductions in percentage of energy from fat. Differential implementation of environmental elements limited the intervention impact.

Conclusions

These findings document the contribution of changes in eating environments to facilitate dietary behaviour change in community residential substance-abuse settings.
Promoting radiation therapy research: understanding perspectives, transforming culture
Authors: Turner A. , D'Alimonte L. , Fitch M.
Published: April 2012

Purpose: To identify the challenges and opportunities that prevent Radiation Therapist (RT) led research at our clinic. Insight gained from this process may lead to strategies which can encourage and support RT research. In this way we can ensure evidence-based practises are promoted by RTs as well as enhancing the professional profile of RTs in the research domain.

Methods: A qualitative approach was chosen for this study. Five focus group sessions were conducted to discuss issues related to research participation within our department. Sessions were audio-recorded and transcribed. Thematic analysis occurred whereby overarching themes were identified, content categories were developed, and summaries were written from these categories. Pre-dominant themes were later presented to the entire radiation therapy department for member checking. Answers to a series of questions were obtained anonymously through the use of iClickersTM (MacMillan MPS, Gordonsville, VA). Further, an open group discussion followed focusing on three key areas (departmental, personal and professional). Initiatives or opportunities that could be implemented to increase research activities were discussed and recorded by a designated note-taker.

Results: Nineteen RTs participated in five focus group sessions. The over-arching themes identified were definition of research, involvement in research and the barriers to conducting research. Member checking confirmed these major themes.

Conclusion: We identified the challenges faced by RTs in the areas of research and development at our centre. This information has given us a greater understanding of the culture of our department and the attitudes to research activities from all groups within it. We aim to use these insights to set-up a framework of support to facilitate increased initiatives. Alongside this support RTs will have a clear understanding of their responsibilities to the organisation that facilitates their research. We anticipate these developments will lead to greater job satisfaction for RTs, increased staff morale and most importantly, the improvement of the overall quality of services we deliver to our patients.
The Politics of Medical Necessity in American Abortion Debates
Authors: Skinner Daniel
Published: April 2012

As anti-choice adherents have transitioned from a scattered movement in the early twentieth century to an organized political interest group in recent decades (Mohr 1978), American abortion politics has moved to medical rather than political ground. Accordingly, advocates of safe, legal abortion have become mired in interpretative debates over abortion's medical necessity rather than its political value. To be sure, this turn was not the product of a strategic plan hatched by pro-choice feminists, but was foisted upon them by judicial and legislative developments that created political contexts to which they were forced to react. Nonetheless, these medical necessity debates have obscured—and sometimes eclipsed—more forceful political arguments, replacing self-authorizing political claims—such as political and human rights, choice, reproductive freedom, and bodily autonomy—with arguments for abortion's medical necessity.
Confining Social Insecurity: Neoliberalism and the Rise of the 21st Century Debtors' Prison
Authors: LeBaron Genevieve , Roberts Adrienne
Published: April 2012

Conjuring up images of nineteenth-century London à la Charles Dickens, the Wall Street Journal recently featured an article entitled “Welcome to Debtors' Prison, 2011 Edition.” The Journal was not using the term debtors' prison as a figure of speech but, rather, was documenting a recent spike in the use of arrest warrants by debt collectors to prosecute borrowers who cannot or will not repay small amounts of money. Indeed, over the past several years, and particularly following the most recent economic crisis from which the United States and the global economy have still not fully recovered, debt-buying firms have increasingly relied upon the state's legal system as a means of compelling individuals behind on their credit card payments, auto loans, and other bills to meet their obligations. In the past year alone, judges have signed off on more than 5,000 arrest warrants, incarcerating Americans for debts as small as $250.
Human Face Responses in the Rorschach Test
Authors: Weinberger Yifat , Andronikof Anne
Published: April 2012

The present study explores the human face responses in the Rorschach test. We suggest that, although the experience of the human face is essential to our psychological development and to our interaction with the world, this category of responses has always been considered as one of the partial human contents, together with responses such as an eye or a finger. The study provides background information about recent research findings concerning face perception and the role of face perception in early psychological development and suggests that Rorschach face responses may be better distinguished from other human detail contents and may have a special clinical significance. In order to explore face responses in the Rorschach, these responses were analyzed in a reference sample of nonpatients (n = 247) conducted in France as part of a of the French-language normative project. Descriptive data on face responses according to the Comprehensive System are provided as well as an analysis of their perceptual characteristics. In addition, a subgroup of nonpatients giving a relatively high number of face responses was found to differ from other nonpatients on several self and interpersonal perception variables. The perceptual features and the possible clinical significance of face responses on the Rorschach are discussed with an emphasis on the possible merit of distinguishing the face category from the other human content details.
Resilience, Mentalization, and the Development Tutor
Authors: de Tychey Claude , Lighezzolo-Alnot Joëlle , Claudon Philippe , Garnier Salomé , Demogeot Nadine
Published: April 2012

The present article first theoretically defines the term “resilience” from the clinical psychoanalytic standpoint, in view of differentiating normal development from pathological development following trauma. It then formalize two essential processes underlying resilience: mentalization and the ability to identify a developmental tutor . We studied two Romanian 12-year-old twin girls who exhibit opposing adaptations following multiple, cumulative traumas (premature birth, early severe deficiencies, parental maltreatment, parental abdication and abandonment). The study is a projective clinical study that uses a pluridimensional methodology (interviews, storytelling test, Rorschach test, and house-drawing test). The clinical data obtained clearly demonstrate the importance of two major axes in accounting for resilience or maladjustment in the face of trauma.
GPS total electron content variations associated with poleward moving Sun‐aligned arcs
Authors: Jayachandran P. T. , Hosokawa K. , Shiokawa K. , Otsuka Y. , Watson C. , Mushini S. C. , MacDougall J. W. , Prikryl P. , Chadwick R. , Kelly T. D.
Published: April 2012

GPS total electron content (TEC) has shown quasiperiodic oscillations of varying amplitude associated with poleward moving Sun‐aligned arcs. The amplitude of TEC variations showed a maximum of ∼3 TECU and seemed to decrease as the arcs moved poleward from the source/generation region. Simultaneous DMSP data showed that fluctuations in TEC and optical intensification were caused by precipitation of high‐energy (>500 eV) particles. Concurrent ionosonde observations also exhibited quasiperiodic variations (within limit of the resolution of the data) in peak ionospheric electron density of the ionosphere. Bottom height of the ionospheric layers produced by precipitating particles varied between 130 km (upper E region) and 300 km (F region), indicating variable particle precipitation energy. Frequency analysis of high‐resolution TEC data showed a broad range of discrete frequency components from 1.60 mHz to 22.80 mHz present in the TEC oscillations, which may provide insight into the energization/modulation of precipitating particles by these oscillations. A broad distribution of equivalent vertical thickness of arcs was calculated using GPS TEC and ionosonde measurements of peak electron density. This distribution showed a minimum thickness of 21 km, a maximum of 84 km, and an average of 49 km. The equivalent vertical thickness also showed a linear relationship with bottomside height of the ionospheric layer (auroral arc). The relationship showed an increase in the vertical thickness with an increase in bottomside height of the layer. This relationship is a consequence of variations in the energy of the precipitating particles causing different ionospheric production profiles.
Inverse groundwater modeling with emphasis on model parameterization
Authors: Kourakos George , Mantoglou Aristotelis
Published: April 2012

This study develops an inverse method aiming to circumvent the subjective decision regarding model parameterization and complexity in inverse groundwater modeling. The number of parameters is included as a decision variable along with parameter values. A parameterization based on B‐spline surfaces (BSS) is selected to approximate transmissivity, and genetic algorithms were selected to perform error minimization. A transform based on linear least squares (LLS) is developed, so that different parameterizations may be combined by standard genetic algorithm operators. First, three applications, with isotropic, anisotropic, and zoned aquifer parameters, are examined in a single objective optimization problem and the estimated transmissivity is found to be near the true one. Interestingly, in the anisotropic case, the algorithm converged to a solution with an anisotropic distribution of control points. Next, a single objective optimization with regularization, penalizing complex models, is considered, and last, the problem is expressed in a multiobjective optimization framework (MOO), where the goals are simultaneous minimization of calibration error and model complexity. The result of MOO is a Pareto set of potential solutions where the user can examine the tradeoffs between calibration error and model complexity and select the most suitable model. By comparing calibration with prediction errors, it appears, that the most promising models are the ones near a region where the rate of decrease of calibration error as model complexity increases drops (bend of error curve). This is a useful result of practical interest in real inverse modeling applications.
Model estimates soil permeability using induced polarization
Authors: Schultz Colin
Published: April 2012

The speed at which water flows through the ground depends on a number of physical parameters, including the density of the soil and the number and sizes of open pores, with the cumulative effect of these parameters dictating the soil's permeability. When exposed to an electric field, sediment grains within the soil get polarized because of an extremely thin structure that surrounds each grain known as the electrical double layer. The electrical double layer consists of a thin layer of adsorbed ions and a diffuse layer of ions that encircle each soil particle. Researchers are able to measure the polarization of the soil to nonintrusively estimate the soil's textural properties, and hence its permeability, with the polarization of the soil being controlled by the polarization of the electrical double layer.
Topology and Hemodynamics of the Cortical Cerebrovascular System
Authors: Hirsch Sven , Reichold Johannes , Schneider Matthias , Székely Gábor , Weber Bruno
Published: April 2012

The cerebrovascular system continuously delivers oxygen and energy substrates to the brain, which is one of the organs with the highest basal energy requirement in mammals. Discontinuities in the delivery lead to fatal consequences for the brain tissue. A detailed understanding of the structure of the cerebrovascular system is important for a multitude of (patho-)physiological cerebral processes and many noninvasive functional imaging methods rely on a signal that originates from the vasculature. Furthermore, neurodegenerative diseases often involve the cerebrovascular system and could contribute to neuronal loss. In this review, we focus on the cortical vascular system. In the first part, we present the current knowledge of the vascular anatomy. This is followed by a theory of topology and its application to vascular biology. We then discuss possible interactions between cerebral blood flow and vascular topology, before summarizing the existing body of the literature on quantitative cerebrovascular topology.
On the origin of the mitochondrial genetic code: Towards a unified mathematical framework for the management of genetic information
Authors: Gonzalez Diego Luis , Giannerini Simone , Rosa Rodolfo
Published: April 2012

The origin of the genetic code represents one of the most challenging problems in molecular evolution. The genetic code is an important universal feature of extant organisms and indicates a common ancestry of different forms of life on earth. Known variants of the genetic code can be mainly divided in mitochondrial and nuclear classes. Here we provide a new insight on the origin of the mitochondrial genetic code: we found that its degeneracy distribution can be explained by using a mathematical approach recently developed for the description of the Euplotes nuclear variant of the genetic code. The results point to a primeval mitochondrial genetic code composed of four base codons, which we call tesserae, that, among other features, exhibit outstanding error detection capabilities. The theoretical description suggests also a formulation of a plausible biological theory about the origin of protein coding. Such theory is based on the symmetry properties of hypothetical primeval chemical adaptors between nucleic acids and amino acids (ancient tRNA’s). Our paper provides a unified mathematical framework for different hypotheses on the origin of genetic coding. Also, it contributes to revisit our present view about the evolutionary steps that led to extant genetic codes by giving a new first-principles perspective on the difficult problem of the origin of the genetic code, and consequently, on the origin of life on earth.
Genomic Replikin Count Predicts Increased Lethality of Malaria
Authors: Bogoch Samuel , Bogoch Elenore
Published: April 2012

Genomic Replikin Counts predict both the increase and the decrease of lethality of malaria
Interleukin-6 counteracts therapy-induced cellular oxidative stress in multiple myeloma by up-regulating manganese superoxide dismutase
Authors: Brown Charles O. , Salem Kelley , Wagner Brett A. , Bera Soumen , Singh Neeraj , Tiwari Ajit , Choudhury Amit , Buettner Garry R. , Goel Apollina
Published: April 2012

IL (interleukin)-6, an established growth factor for multiple myeloma cells, induces myeloma therapy resistance, but the resistance mechanisms remain unclear. The present study determines the role of IL-6 in re-establishing intracellular redox homoeostasis in the context of myeloma therapy. IL-6 treatment increased myeloma cell resistance to agents that induce oxidative stress, including IR (ionizing radiation) and Dex (dexamethasone). Relative to IR alone, myeloma cells treated with IL-6 plus IR demonstrated reduced annexin/propidium iodide staining, caspase 3 activation, PARP [poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase] cleavage and mitochondrial membrane depolarization with increased clonogenic survival. IL-6 combined with IR or Dex increased early intracellular pro-oxidant levels that were causally related to activation of NF-κB (nuclear factor κB) as determined by the ability of N-acetylcysteine to suppress both pro-oxidant levels and NF-κB activation. In myeloma cells, upon combination with hydrogen peroxide treatment, relative to TNF (tumour necrosis factor)-α, IL-6 induced an early perturbation in reduced glutathione level and increased NF-κB-dependent MnSOD (manganese superoxide dismutase) expression. Furthermore, knockdown of MnSOD suppressed the IL-6-induced myeloma cell resistance to radiation. MitoSOX Red staining showed that IL-6 treatment attenuated late mitochondrial oxidant production in irradiated myeloma cells. The present study provides evidence that increases in MnSOD expression mediate IL-6-induced resistance to Dex and radiation in myeloma cells. The results of the present study indicate that inhibition of antioxidant pathways could enhance myeloma cell responses to radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy.
Speech Disfluency in School-Age Children’s Conversational and Narrative Discourse
Authors: Byrd Courtney T. , Logan Kenneth J. , Gillam Ronald B.
Published: April 2012

Purpose

This study was designed to (a) compare the speech fluency of school-age children who do and do not stutter (CWS and CWNS, respectively) within 2 standard diagnostic speaking contexts (conversation and narration) while also controlling for speaking topic, and (b) examine the extent to which children’s performance on such discourse tasks is affected by age.

Method

Participants were 44 school-age children who were divided evenly into four groups, depending on their age (older, younger) and fluency status (CWS, CWNS). Children conversed with an examiner about a series of pictures and then told a story about the same pictures.

Results

School-age CWS produced more instances of atypical (stuttering-like) disfluencies in the narrative context than in the conversational context. Younger school-age children produced more instances of typical (nonstuttering-like) disfluencies in the conversational sample than did older school-age children. Age did not affect the frequency of children’s stuttering-like disfluencies in either the conversational or the narrative contexts.

Clinical Implications

These findings suggest that narration may offer a relatively efficient way of eliciting stuttering-like disfluencies during the assessment of stuttering. Thus, when assessing children to determine if they do or do not stutter, this type of sample should be considered in addition to the standard conversational sample.
The Effect of Test Presentation on Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders and Neurotypical Peers
Authors: Alt Mary , Humphrey Moreno Melanie
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this experiment was to determine if there is alternate forms reliability for paper- and computer-administered standardized vocabulary tests. Another purpose was to determine whether the behavioral ratings of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) would improve during the computer-administered testing sessions secondary to a decreased need for social interaction.

Method

Thirty-six school-age children (half with ASDs, half neurotypical [NT]) took 2 versions (i.e., paper vs. computer) of the Expressive One-Word Picture Vocabulary Test (EOWPVT–2000; Brownell, 2000a) and the Receptive One-Word Picture Vocabulary Test (ROWPVT–2000; Brownell, 2000b). Order of presentation was counterbalanced across participants. Test sessions were videotaped, and randomly selected 1-min intervals were rated for behaviors. Standardized test scores and behavior ratings were compared for equivalence across the test presentation methods.

Results

Standard scores for both versions of the tests were not significantly different for both groups of participants. There were no differences in behavioral ratings between the two methods of test presentation.

Conclusion

Alternate forms reliability was found, thus expanding the options for testing for school-age populations. The use of computers had no effect on the behaviors of the children with ASDs. The ramifications of this finding for assessment and intervention for children with ASDs are discussed.
The Narrative Language Performance of Three Types of At-Risk First-Grade Readers
Authors: Allen Melissa M. , Ukrainetz Teresa A. , Carswell Alisa L.
Published: April 2012

Purpose

This study investigated the narrative language performance of 3 types of readers who had been identified as being at risk through code-based response-to-intervention (RTI) procedures.

Method

In a retrospective group comparison, 32 at-risk 1st-grade readers were identified: children who resolved without intervention (early resolvers,
n
= 11), children who met criterion following 4 weeks of intervention (good responders,
n
= 8), and children who failed to meet criterion following 4 weeks of intervention (poor responders,
n
= 13). A narrative retell and a norm-referenced language test were obtained before intervention.

Results

There were no significant differences between the 3 learner types on the language test. However, the narratives of the good responders were significantly higher than the narratives of the other 2 groups on total number of words, number of different words, and number of communication units. The narratives of early resolvers and good responders differed significantly on the productivity index, number of coordinating conjunctions, and number of episodic elements. There were no other significant differences.

Conclusion

Types of learners distinguished by a code-based RTI model showed differences in their narrative language. First graders who responded well to code-based reading intervention retold stories that contained more language and better story grammar than first graders who did not respond well to intervention. These results indicate the need to evaluate narrative language performance within RTI, especially for early resolvers.
Cognitive, Environmental, and Linguistic Predictors of Syntax in Fragile X Syndrome and Down Syndrome
Authors: Estigarribia Bruno , Martin Gary E. , Roberts Joanne E.
Published: April 2012

Purpose

To examine which cognitive, environmental, and speech-language variables predict expressive syntax in boys with fragile X syndrome (FXS), boys with Down syndrome (DS), and typically developing (TD) boys, and whether predictive relationships differed by group.

Method

We obtained Index of Productive Syntax (Scarborough, 1990) scores for 18 boys with FXS only, 20 boys with both FXS and an autism spectrum disorder, 27 boys with DS, and 25 younger TD boys of similar nonverbal mental age. Predictors included group (diagnosis), nonverbal cognition, phonological working memory (PWM), maternal education, speech intelligibility, and expressive vocabulary. The research questions were addressed via hierarchical linear regression.

Results

Diagnostic group, nonverbal cognition, and PWM predicted 56% of the variance in syntactic ability, with approximately three-fourths of the predicted variance explained by group membership alone. The other factors did not contribute any additional significant variance in this final model. There was no evidence that predictor effects differed by group.

Conclusions

Nonverbal cognition and PWM have an effect on expressive syntax beyond that of diagnostic group. These effects are estimated to be the same in boys with FXS, boys with DS, and TD boys. Explanations for residual variance and the relative role of different predictors are discussed.
Field induced gradient simulations: A high throughput method for computing chemical potentials in multicomponent systems
Authors: Mehrotra Anuja Seth , Puri Sanjay , Khakhar D. V.
Published: April 2012

We present a simulation method for direct computation of chemical potentials in multicomponent systems. The method involves application of a field to generate spatial gradients in the species number densities at equilibrium, from which the chemical potential of each species is theoretically estimated. A single simulation yields results over a range of thermodynamic states, as in high throughput experiments, and the method remains computationally efficient even at high number densities since it does not involve particle insertion at high densities. We illustrate the method by Monte Carlo simulations of binary hard sphere mixtures of particles with different sizes in a gravitational field. The results of the gradient Monte Carlo method are found to be in good agreement with chemical potentials computed using the classical Widom particle insertion method for spatially uniform systems.
Temperature-dependent charge transport in copper indium diselenide nanocrystal films
Authors: Lombardo Christopher J. , Akhavan Vahid A. , Panthani Matthew G. , Goodfellow Brian W. , Korgel Brian A. , Dodabalapur Ananth
Published: April 2012

This manuscript reports the temperature dependence of majority carrier transport in p-type films of copper indium diselenide (CuInSe2) nanocrystals. Charge transport parameters, such as the carrier concentration and the electrical conductivity as well as the charge transport mechanisms have been characterized through measurements of electrical capacitance and electrical current as a function of applied voltage bias and temperature. At low temperatures, below 181 K, the temperature dependence of the conductivity is consistent with a variable range hopping mechanism for transport, while at higher temperatures, above 181 K, the transport mechanism shifts to nearest neighbor hopping. Charge transport measurements were also studied under AM1.5 illumination to show how energetic barriers for charge transport are reduced under solar cell-like operating conditions.
Pressure dependence of confined liquid behavior subjected to boundary-driven shear
Authors: Heyes D. M. , Smith E. R. , Dini D. , Spikes H. A. , Zaki T. A.
Published: April 2012

Non-equilibrium molecular dynamics simulations of boundary-driven sheared Lennard-Jones liquids at variable pressure up to 5 GPa (for argon) reveal a rich out-of-equilibrium phase behavior with a strong degree of shear localization. At the lowest apparent shear rate considered (wall speed ∼1 m s−1) the confined region is an homogeneously sheared solid (S) with no slip at the walls. This transforms at higher shear rates to a non-flowing plug with slip at the walls, referred to as the plug slip (PS) state. At higher shear rate a central localized (CL) state formed in which the shear gradient was localized in the center of the film, with the rest of the confined sample in a crystalline state commensurate with the wall lattice. The central zone liquidlike region increased in width with shear rate. A continuous rounded temperature profile across the whole system reflects strong dynamical coupling between the wall and confined region. The temperature rise in the confined film is consistent with the Brinkman number. The transition from the PS to CL states typically occurred at a wall speed near where the shear stress approached a critical value of ∼3% of the shear modulus, and also near the peak in the traction coefficient, μ. The peak traction coefficient values computed, ∼0.12 − 0.14 at 1000 MPa agree with those found for traction fluids and occur when the confined liquid is in the PS and CL states. At low wall speeds slip can occur at one wall and stick at the other. Poorly wetting liquids manifest long-lived asymmetries in the confined liquid properties across the system, and a shift in solid-liquid phase co-existence to higher shear rates. A non-equilibrium phase diagram based on these results is proposed. The good agreement of the tribological response of the Lennard-Jones fluid with that of more complicated molecular systems suggests that a corresponding states scaling of the tribological behavior could apply.
Structural and optical quality of GaN grown on Sc2O3/Y2O3/Si(111)
Authors: Tarnawska L. , Zaumseil P. , Schubert M. A. , Okur S. , Ozgur U. , Morkoç H. , Paszkiewicz R. , Storck P. , Schroeder T.
Published: April 2012

Thick (∼900 nm) GaN layers were grown by molecular beam epitaxy on cost-effective Sc2O3/Y2O3/Si(111) substrates and characterized by x-ray diffraction and photoluminescence. Samples grown in Ga-rich condition show superior structural and optical quality with reduced density of cubic GaN inclusions within the hexagonal matrix and a relatively strong photoluminescence emission at 3.45 eV at 10 K. Cubic inclusions are formed in the initial growth stage and their concentration is reduced with increasing film thickness and after rapid thermal annealing.
Bounds for Fisher information and its production under flow
Authors: Yamano Takuya
Published: April 2012

We prove that two well-known measures of information are interrelated in interesting and useful ways when applied to nonequilibrium circumstances. A nontrivial form of the lower bound for the Fisher information measure is derived in presence of a flux vector, which satisfies the continuity equation. We also establish a novel upper bound on the time derivative (production) in terms of the arrow of time and derive a lower bound by the logarithmic Sobolev inequality. These serve as the revealing dynamics of the information content and its limitations pertaining to nonequilibrium processes.
1/f noise of Josephson-junction-embedded microwave resonators at single photon energies and millikelvin temperatures
Authors: Murch K. W. , Weber S. J. , Levenson-Falk E. M. , Vijay R. , Siddiqi I.
Published: April 2012

We present measurements of 1/f frequency noise in both linear and Josephson-junction-embedded superconducting aluminum resonators in the low power, low temperature regime—typical operating conditions for superconducting qubits. The addition of the Josephson junction does not result in additional frequency noise, thereby placing an upper limit for fractional critical current fluctuations of 1×10−8 (1/Hz) at 1 Hz for sub-micron, shadow evaporated junctions. These values imply a minimum dephasing time for a superconducting qubit due to critical current noise of 40–1400  μs depending on qubit architecture. Occasionally, at temperatures above 50 mK, we observe the activation of individual fluctuators which increase the level of noise significantly and exhibit Lorentzian spectra.
Influence of the SET current on the resistive switching properties of tantalum oxide created by oxygen implantation
Authors: Bishop S. M. , Bakhru H. , Capulong J. O. , Cady N. C.
Published: April 2012

Resistive memory devices fabricated from oxygen implanted tantalum exhibited bipolar switching without a forming voltage. The influence of the current limit during SET on the switching properties has been studied using endurance measurements. The SET/RESET voltages did not change with the current limit. The RESET current increased proportionally to the SET current, while the on-state resistance varied inversely to the SET current. These results are consistent with a RESET process that is directly linked to the peak power during SET. The trade-off between the switching endurance and memory window that results from the SET process is also shown.
Tunable linear magnetoresistance in MgO magnetic tunnel junction sensors using two pinned CoFeB electrodes
Authors: Chen J. Y. , Feng J. F. , Coey J. M. D.
Published: April 2012

MgO-barrier magnetic tunnel junction sensors with both CoFeB layers pinned by IrMn have been fabricated, which show a tunneling magnetoresistance (TMR) of up to 255% at room temperature. The perpendicular configuration for magnetic field sensing is set using a two-step field annealing process. The linear TMR field range and sensitivity are tuned by inserting an ultrathin Ru layer between the upper IrMn and the top-pinned CoFeB layer. The field sensitivity reaches 26%/mT, while the noise detectivity is about 90 nT/Hz at 10 Hz for a 0.3 nm Ru insertion layer. The bias dependence of the noise suggests that this is a useful design for sensor applications.
Surface plasmon on topological insulator/dielectric interface enhanced ZnO ultraviolet photoluminescence
Authors: Liao Zhi-Min , Han Bing-Hong , Wu Han-Chun , Yashina L. V. , Yan Yuan , Zhou Yang-Bo , Bie Ya-Qing , Bozhko S. I. , Fleischer K. , Shvets I. V. , Zhao Qing , Yu Da-Peng
Published: April 2012

It has recently been predicted that the surface plasmons are allowed to exist on the interface between a topological insulator and vacuum. Surface plasmons can be employed to enhance the optical emission from various illuminants. Here, we study the photoluminescence properties of the ZnO/Bi2Te3 hybrid structures. Thin flakes of Bi2Te3, a typical three-dimensional topological insulator, were prepared on ZnO crystal surface by mechanical exfoliation method. The ultraviolet emission from ZnO was found to be enhanced by the Bi2Te3 thin flakes, which was attributed to the surface plasmon – photon coupling at the Bi2Te3/ZnO interface.
Urban Sustainability, Conflict Management, and the Geographies of Postpoliticism: A Case Study of Taipei
Authors: Raco Mike , Lin Wen-I
Published: April 2012

The concept of sustainability has been used by city governments worldwide to promote urban development. For some the term represents an archetypal postpolitical construct that enables urban populations and policy makers to confront collective problems in a consensus-driven way. In short, it enables a new conflict-free politics to emerge within cities. This paper uses the example of Taipei, Taiwan to explore how sustainable development agendas in a postcolonial city, which has a relatively young democratic system, are articulated and with what effects. It examines the utility of recent postpolitical writing as an explanatory frame for contemporary political changes. It documents how and in what ways postpolitical agendas have been established and how they have been used to nullify conflict by shifting attention away from grassroots concerns over globally oriented developmentalism.
Glucogenic supply increases oocyte developmental competence in sheep
Authors: Berlinguer F. , Gonzalez-Bulnes A. , Contreras-Solis I. , Spezzigu A. , Torres-Rovira L. , Succu S. , Naitana S. , Leoni G. G.
Published: April 2012

The present study aimed to determine the influence of a glucogenic supply on oocyte developmental competence. Oestrous cycles were synchronised in 22 Sarda ewes by the insertion (Day 0) of one intravaginal progestagen-impregnated sponge that was removed after 6 days. After removal, the ewes were randomly allocated into two experimental groups (treated and control ewes) and, from Day 7 to Day 11, treated ewes received oral administration of a glucogenic mixture, whereas control animals received water. Follicular development was stimulated by FSH administration from Days 8 to 10. Glucose metabolism was assessed from Days 7 to 11, whilst follicle and corpus luteum growth dynamics and functionality were evaluated between Days 6 and 11. At Day 11 ovaries were collected and processed for in vitro embryo production. Glucogenic treatment increased both the plasma levels of glucose, progesterone, oestradiol and the number of 2–3-mm follicles (P < 0.05). Higher fertilisation and blastocyst rates (P < 0.05) were obtained after IVM of oocytes recovered from treated ewes compared with control ones. In conclusion, glucogenic treatment modifies follicle and corpus luteum functionality and improves oocyte quality, as evaluated by in vitro developmental kinetics and blastocyst output.
Chemical-genetic analysis of cyclin dependent kinase 2 function reveals an important role in cellular transformation by multiple oncogenic pathways
Authors: Horiuchi Dai , E. Huskey Noelle , Kusdra Leonard , Wohlbold Lara , Merrick Karl A. , Zhang Chao , Creasman Katelyn J. , Shokat Kevan M. , Fisher Robert P. , Goga Andrei
Published: April 2012

A family of conserved serine/threonine kinases known as cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) drives orderly cell cycle progression in mammalian cells. Prior studies have suggested that CDK2 regulates S-phase entry and progression, and frequently shows increased activity in a wide spectrum of human tumors. Genetic KO/knockdown approaches, however, have suggested that lack of CDK2 protein does not prevent cellular proliferation, both during somatic development in mice as well as in human cancer cell lines. Here, we use an alternative, chemical-genetic approach to achieve specific inhibition of CDK2 kinase activity in cells. We directly compare small-molecule inhibition of CDK2 kinase activity with siRNA knockdown and show that small-molecule inhibition results in marked defects in proliferation of nontransformed cells, whereas siRNA knockdown does not, highlighting the differences between these two approaches. In addition, CDK2 inhibition drastically diminishes anchorage-independent growth of human cancer cells and cells transformed with various oncogenes. Our results establish that CDK2 activity is necessary for normal mammalian cell cycle progression and suggest that it might be a useful therapeutic target for treating cancer.
Gaseous Chlorine Dioxide as an Alternative for Bedbug Control
Authors: Gibbs Shawn G. , Lowe John J. , Smith Philip W. , Hewlett Angela L.
Published: April 2012

Objective.

This study evaluated the efficacy of gaseous chlorine dioxide (ClO2) for extermination of bedbugs (Cimex lectularius and Citnex hemipterus).

Background.

Bedbugs have received attention because of recent outbreaks. Bedbug eradication is difficult and often requires a time-consuming multifaceted approach.

Setting.

Laboratory and hospital room.

Methods.

Bedbugs were exposed to concentrations of ClO2 of 362, 724, and 1,086 parts per million (ppm) in an exposure chamber. Bedbug mortality was then evaluated. The ability of ClO2 to penetrate various spaces in a hospital room was evaluated using Bacillus atropheus as a surrogate organism.

Results.

Concentrations of 1,086 and 724 ppm of ClO2 yielded 100% bedbug mortality assessed immediately after exposure. Live young were not observed for any eggs exposed to ClO2 gas. ClO2 at a concentration of 362 ppm for 1,029 parts per million hours (ppm-hours) achieved 100% mortality 6 hours after exposure. A ClO2 concentration of 362 ppm for 519 ppm-hours had 100% mortality 18 hours after exposure. Up to a 6-log reduction in B. atropheus spores was achieved using similar concentrations of ClO2 in a hospital room, indicating that the concentrations needed to kill bedbugs can be achieved throughout a hospital room.

Conclusions.

ClO2 is effective at killing bedbugs in the laboratory, and similar concentrations of ClO2 gas can be achieved in a hospital room. ClO2 can be removed from the room without residuals.