bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A study of disorder effects in random (AlxGa1−xAs)n(AlyGa1−yAs)m superlattices embedded in a wide parabolic potential
Authors: Pusep Yu. A. , Mohseni P. K. , LaPierre R. R. , Bakarov A. K. , Toropov A. I.
Published: March 2010

A photoluminescence (PL) study of the individual electron states localized in a random potential is performed in artificially disordered superlattices embedded in a wide parabolic well. The valence band bowing of the parabolic potential provides a variation of the emission energies which splits the optical transitions corresponding to different wells within the random potential. The blueshift of the PL lines emitted by individual random wells, observed with increasing disorder strength, is demonstrated. The variation of temperature and magnetic field allowed for the behavior of the electrons localized in individual wells of the random potential to be distinguished.
Electrical observation of a tunable band gap in bilayer graphene nanoribbons at room temperature
Authors: Szafranek B. N. , Schall D. , Otto M. , Neumaier D. , Kurz H.
Published: March 2010

We investigate the transport properties of double-gated bilayer graphene nanoribbons at room temperature. The devices were fabricated using complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS)-compatible processes. By analyzing the dependence of the resistance at the charge neutrality point as a function of the electric field applied perpendicular to the graphene surface, we show that a band gap in the density of states opens, reaching an effective value of ∼50 meV. This demonstrates the potential of bilayer graphene as channel material for a field-effect transistor in a conventional CMOS environment.
Physics of base charge dynamics in the three port transistor laser
Authors: Then H. W. , Feng M. , Holonyak N.
Published: March 2010

The base charge dynamics of the quantum-well (QW) transistor laser (TL) is analyzed by constructing a model based on earlier incomplete charge control analysis. We extend Kirchhoff’s Law to include electrical and consistently “optical” elements. The model yields, via microwave measurements (and resolvable picosecond responses), physical quantities associated with TL base-charging, permitting the extraction of a base QW charge density, nQW=2×1016 cm−3, consistent with calculation by current continuity. The low density implies quasi-Fermi level discontinuity in the TL base, and indicates that the base QW charge level is not as important as the current driving the QW and supplying electron-hole recombination.
Effects of postgate dielectric treatment on germanium-based metal-oxide-semiconductor device by supercritical fluid technology
Authors: Liu Po-Tsun , Huang Chen-Shuo , Huang Yi-Ling , Lin Jing-Ru , Cheng Szu-Lin , Nishi Yoshio , Sze S. M.
Published: March 2010

Supercritical fluid (SCF) technology is employed at low temperature as a postgate dielectric treatment to improve gate SiO2/germanium (Ge) interface in a Ge-based metal-oxide-semiconductor (Ge-MOS) device. The SCF can transport the oxidant and penetrate the gate oxide layer for the oxidation of SiO2/Ge interface at 150 °C. A smooth interfacial GeO2 layer between gate SiO2 and Ge is thereby formed after SCF treatment, and the frequency dispersion of capacitance-voltage characteristics is also effectively alleviated. Furthermore, the electrical degradation of Ge-MOS after a postgate dielectric annealing at 450 °C can be restored to a extent similar to the initial state.
Social network analysis for farmers' hearing services in a rural community
Authors: Lower Tony , Fragar Lyn , Depcynzksi Julie , Fuller Jeffrey , Challinor Kathy , Williams Warwick
Published: March 2010

This study aimed to define current hearing health service networks for farming families in a major regional centre in New South Wales, in order to identify approaches that can strengthen local service provision. A pilot survey of individuals and agencies that potentially work with farmers was undertaken and a social network analysis completed to assess the self-reported links of agencies with each other. Thirteen agencies with a role in hearing health service provision participated with results indicating that nurse audiometrists, WorkCover NSW and agricultural retailers have the lead role in disseminating relevant information within the network. For client referrals the nurse audiometrist, private audiometry services, general practitioners, ear, nose and throat specialists and industry groups played the major roles. Social network analysis can assist in defining hearing health networks and can be used to highlight potential actions that can strengthen networks to enhance services for farmers and their families.
Driving change in rural workforce planning: the Medical Schools Outcomes Database
Authors: Gerber Jonathan P. , Landau Louis I.
Published: March 2010

The Medical Schools Outcomes Database (MSOD) is an ongoing longitudinal tracking project of medical students from all medical schools in Australia and New Zealand. It was established in 2005 to track the career trajectories of medical students and will directly help develop models of workforce flow, particularly with respect to rural and remote shortages. This paper briefly outlines the MSOD project and reports on key methodological factors in tracking medical students. Finally, the potential impact of the MSOD on understanding changes in rural practice intentions is illustrated using data from the 2005 pilot cohort (n = 112). Rural placements were associated with a shift towards rural practice intentions, while those who intended to practice rurally at both the start and end of medical school tended to be older and interested in a generalist career. Continuing work will track these and future students as they progress through the workforce, as well as exploring issues such as the career trajectories of international fee-paying students, workforce succession planning, and the evaluation of medical education initiatives.
Migration of nurses in Australia: where and why?
Authors: Ohr Se Ok , Parker Vicki , Jeong Sarah , Joyce Terry
Published: March 2010

The Australian health care workforce has benefited from an increasing migration of nurses over the past decades. The nursing profession is the largest single health profession, making up over half of the Australian health care workforce. Migration of nurses into the Australian nursing workforce impacts significantly on the size of the workforce and the capacity to provide health care to the Australian multicultural community. Migration of nurses plays an important role in providing a solution to the ongoing challenges of workforce attraction and retention, hence an understanding of the factors contributing to nurse migration is important. This paper will critically analyse factors reported to impact on migration of nurses to Australia, in particular in relation to: (1) globalisation; (2) Australian society and nursing workforce; and (3) personal reasons. The current and potential implications of nurse migration are not limited to the Australian health care workforce, but also extend to political, socioeconomic and other aspects in Australia.
Feasibility study of a communication and education asthma intervention for general practitioners in Australia
Authors: Shah Smita , Toelle Brett G. , Sawyer Susan M. , Roydhouse Jessica K. , Edwards Peter , Usherwood Tim , Jenkins Christine R.
Published: March 2010

The Physician Asthma Care Education (PACE) program significantly improved asthma prescribing and communication behaviours of primary care paediatricians in the USA. We tested the feasibility and acceptability of a modified PACE program with Australian general practitioners (GP) and measured its impact on self-reported consulting behaviours in a pilot study. Recruitment took place through a local GP division. Twenty-five GP completed two PACE Australia workshops, which incorporated paediatric asthma management consistent with Australian asthma guidelines and focussed on effective communication strategies. Program feasibility, usefulness and perceived benefit were measured by questionnaires before the workshop and 1 month later, and an evaluation questionnaire after each workshop. GP were universally enthusiastic and supportive of the workshops. The most useful elements they reported were communication skills, case studies, device demonstrations and the toolkit provided. GP self reports of the perceived helpfulness of the key communication strategies and their confidence in their application and reported frequency of use increased significantly after the workshops. The PACE program shows promise in improving the way in which Australian GP manage asthma consultations, particularly with regard to doctor–patient communication. The impact of the modified PACE Australia program on the processes and outcomes of GP care of children with asthma is now being measured in a randomised controlled trial.
Assessment and management of lifestyle risk factors in rural and urban general practices in Australia
Authors: Passey Megan , Fanaian Mahnaz , Lyle David , Harris Mark F.
Published: March 2010

Prevention of cardiovascular disease is a major public health challenge. Many chronic health problems are amenable to lifestyle interventions, which can ameliorate progression of disease and contribute to primary prevention. Prior to a large randomised controlled trial we assessed preventive care in trial practices. General practitioners and practice nurses completed a preventive care questionnaire covering frequency of assessing and managing behavioural and physiological risk factors, which was developed from previously validated instruments. Factor analysis confirmed 10 scales. Scores for rural and urban respondents were contrasted using univariate statistics. Sixty-three general practitioners and practice nurses completed the questionnaire (27 urban and 36 rural). The clinicians reported high levels of assessment and advice for cardiovascular risk factors but less frequent referral. There were no differences between urban and rural practitioners in relation to assessment of risk or stage of change, referral or barriers to referral or management of high blood pressure. Rural practitioners had lower scores for frequency of advice, and management of obesity/overweight, pre-diabetes and high lipids. Although clinicians report frequently advising high risk patients to exercise more, there remain significant gaps in provision of dietary advice and referral. Greater attention to addressing these issues is required to maximise the potential benefits for cardiovascular disease prevention in general practice.
Raman microscopy and x-ray fluorescence analysis of pigments on medieval and Renaissance Italian manuscript cuttings
Authors: Burgio Lucia , Clark Robin J. H. , Hark Richard R.
Published: March 2010

Italian medieval and Renaissance manuscript cuttings and miniatures from the Victoria and Albert Museum were analyzed by Raman microscopy to compile a database of pigments used in different periods and different Italian regions. The palette identified in most manuscripts and cuttings was found to include lead white, gypsum, azurite, lazurite, indigo, malachite, vermilion, red lead, lead tin yellow (I), goethite, carbon, and iron gall ink. A few of the miniatures, such as the historiated capital “M” painted by Gerolamo da Cremona and the Petrarca manuscript by Bartolomeo Sanvito, are of exceptional quality and were analyzed extensively; some contained unusual materials. The widespread usage of iron oxides such as goethite and hematite as minor components of mixtures with azurite is particularly notable. The use of a needle-shaped form of iron gall ink as a pigment rather than a writing material was established by both Raman microscopy and x-ray fluorescence spectroscopy for the Madonna and Child by Franco de’ Russi.
Reading First in Florida: Five Years of Improvement
Authors: Foorman Barbara R. , Petscher Yaacov , Lefsky Evan B. , Toste Jessica R.
Published: March 2010

Five years of reading comprehension data in Florida Reading First schools were analyzed to address questions regarding student improvement, reduction in the achievement gap, efficacy of site visits to schools making no achievement gains, and effects of student mobility on growth in reading comprehension. Participants were 120,000 students (about 30,000 each in grades K–3) in the 318 schools in the first cohort of Florida Reading First from 2003 to 2008. Outcome measures were the reading comprehension scores on the Stanford Achievement Test (SAT-10) and the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT). The percentage of students on grade level (at or above the 40th percentile) increased, and the percentage of students at high risk (below the 20th percentile) decreased over the five years. Racial/ethnic minority, economically disadvantaged, and English language learner groups improved performance as well, but there was no evidence of narrowing the achievement gap. Reduction in risk for students with learning disabilities was noteworthy. Increased support to low-performing schools was associated with improved performance. Finally, there were significant reductions in growth in reading comprehension associated with leaving a Reading First school.
Reading Achievement in Reading First Schools in Michigan
Authors: Carlisle Joanne F. , Cortina Kai S. , Zeng Ji
Published: March 2010

The purpose of this article is to examine whether there were improvements in the percentage of first-, second-, and third-grade students in Reading First (RF) schools in Michigan who performed at or above grade level on a standardized test of reading comprehension. The study reports results for 140 schools that participated in the RF initiative between 2002 and 2008. Results show that significant progress was made in improving the percentage of students reading at or above grade level in grades 1 and 2, but not in grade 3. While not the primary focus of the study, additional analyses showed significant decreases in the percentage of students reading substantially below grade level in RF schools, particularly for first and second grades. The effects of poverty and student and teacher attrition significantly and negatively affected schools' progress in improving reading comprehension achievement. The results suggest that the RF initiative in Michigan was effective in improving the reading comprehension of students in schools that were less hampered by problems associated with very high poverty.
Second Opinions on the Reading First Initiative: The View from Utah
Authors: Dole Janice A. , Hosp John L. , Nelson Kristin L. , Hosp Michelle K.
Published: March 2010

This article provides a summary of the five years of implementation of the first cohort of schools participating in Utah's Reading First Initiative. Fifteen schools across six districts comprised this cohort. Performance is compared to the performance of a cohort of matched comparison schools as well as the average state performance on the Utah Language Arts Criterion-referenced Tests (CRTs). Results indicate that Reading First schools appeared to have made greater gains than comparison schools or the state average in the percentage of students achieving proficiency on the CRTs. In addition, the achievement gap for most disaggregated groups was reduced, and greater performance was noted for students who spent three years in Reading First schools rather than one or two. These data are in contrast to the results of the Reading First Impact Study, but highlight the need to examine the contextual effects of systemic reform initiatives such as the Reading First Initiative.
Generation of plasma flow in noise-driven Hasegawa–Mima model
Authors: Kim Chang-Bae
Published: March 2010

The presence of macroscopic flows in hot plasmas is of great importance in nuclear fusion experiments. For pedagogical purposes, the spontaneous appearance of the flow is studied using the Hasegawa–Mima equation (HME) driven by external noise. The noise is assumed to model a bath of microscopic-scale turbulence. If the noise has a parity-nonconserving element, it is shown that an advective term associated with a uniform flow is inherently generated in the HME. A renormalization-group approach up to the lowest order is taken in the analysis of the asymptotic state. Parity-conserving noise is shown to lead to the renormalizations of field and viscosity and the critical dimensions are obtained.
Miscibility, Crystallization, and Rheological Behavior of Solution Casting Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate)/poly(ethylene succinate) Blends Probed by Differential Scanning Calorimetry, Rheology, and Optical Microscope Techniques
Authors: Sun Wei-hua , Qiao Xiao-ping , Cao Qi-kun , Liu Jie-ping
Published: March 2010

The miscibility and crystallization of solution casting biodegradable poly(3-hydroxybutyrate)/poly(ethylene succinate) (PHB/PES) blends was investigated by differential scanning calorimetry, rheology, and optical microscopy. The blends showed two glass transition temperatures and a depression of melting temperature of PHB with compositions in phase diagram, which indicated that the blend was partially miscible. The morphology observation supported this result. It was found that the PHB and PES can crystallize simultaneously or upon stepwise depending on the crystallization temperatures and compositions. The spherulite growth rate of PHB increased with increasing of PES content. The influence of compositions on the spherulitic growth rate for the partially miscible polymer blends was discussed.
Elastic Behaviors of Adsorbed Protein-like Chains
Authors: Sun Ting-ting , Ma Hai-zhu
Published: March 2010

Elastic behaviors of protein-like chains are investigated by Pruned–Enriched–Rosenbluth method and modified orientation-dependent monomer-monomer interactions model. The protein-like chain is pulled away from the attractive surface slowly with elastic force acting on it. Strong adsorption interaction and no adsorption interaction are both considered. We calculate the characteristic ratio and shape factor of protein-like chains in the process of elongation. The conformation change of the protein-like chain is well depicted. The shape of chain changes from “rod" to “sphere" at the beginning of elongation. Then, the shape changes from “sphere" to “rod". In the end, the shape becomes a “sphere" as the chain leaves away from the surface. In the meantime, we discuss average Helmoholtz free energy per bond, average energy per bond, average adsorbed energy per bond, average α-helical energy per bond, average β-sheet energy per bond and average contact energy per bond. On the other hand, elastic force is also studied. It is found that elastic force has a long plateau during the tensile elongation when there exists adsorption interaction. This result is consistent with SMFS experiment of general polymers. Energy contribution to elastic force and contact energy contribution to elastic force are both discussed. These investigations can provide some insights into the elastic behaviors of adsorbed protein chains.
Enhanced Photoelectrochemical Property of Zn Loaded TiO2 Nanotube Arrays Electrode
Authors: Xiao Peng , Li Lu , Zhang Yun-huai , Dai Hong-fa , Hu Yu-zhuo , Lu Lu
Published: March 2010

TiO2 nanotube arrays (TNTs) electrode loaded with Zn nanoparticles was prepared by anodization and the size of Zn nanoparticle loaded on TNTs electrode was controlled by chronoamperometry deposition time. Results of SEM and XRD analysis show that Zn nanoparticles had a diameter of about 15–25 nm when the deposition time was 3–5 s. The UV-Vis diffuse reflectance spectra show the Zn loaded harvest light with 480–780 nm more effectively than the unloaded sample. The photocurrent response of Zn loaded TNTs electrodes were studied, the results showed that TNTs electrodes loaded with Zn nanoparticles has 50% increased photocurrent response under high-pressure mercury lamp irradiation compared with unloaded TNTs electrode.
Spectral Differences of the Molecule-ion Adducts of β-Cyclodextrin and Lithium Carbonate
Authors: Bai Lei , Song Le-xin , Wang Mang , Zhu Lin-hong
Published: March 2010

A small shielding effect on the hydrogen atoms of chiral carbons of β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) was detected by 1H nuclear magnetic resonance, but a large environmental change of the chiral carbon atoms at high concentration ratios of lithium carbonate (Li2CO3) to β-CD was observed by polarimetry in aqueous solution. These findings urged us to investigate whether different formation conditions of the molecule-ion system between Li2CO3 and β-CD in solid state were involved in different spectral performances. To answer the question, we prepared three adducts of Li2CO3 to β-CD, i.e., 1 samples 2, and 3, by magnetic stirring, solvothermal and grinding conditions, respectively. Powder X-ray diffraction and Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy provided the information of formation of the three molecule-ion adducts. Besides, scanning electron microscope images provided different surface information of the three adducts. Further, significant spectral differences in thermal behavior of these adducts were found by thermogravimetry and derivative thermogravimetry.
In- and Anti-transition of Firing Patterns Induced by Random Long-range Connections in Coupled Hindmarsh–Rose Neurons System
Authors: Wang Peng , Zhang Ji-qian , Ren Hai-lin
Published: March 2010

The effects of random long-range connections (shortcuts) on the transitions of neural firing patterns in coupled Hindmarsh–Rose neurons are investigated, where each neuron is subjected to an external current. It is found that, on one hand, the system can achieve the transition of neural firing patterns from the fewer-period state to the multi-period one, when the number of the added shortcuts in the neural network is greater than a threshold value, indicating the occurrence of in-transition of neural firing patterns. On the other hand, for a stronger coupling strength, we can also find the similar but reverse results by adding some proper random connections. In addition, the influences of system size and coupling strength on such transition behavior, as well as the internality between the transition degree of firing patterns and its critical characteristics for different external stimulation current, are also discussed.
Effect of Environment on Photo-detachment Dynamics of Halide Ions: A Model Approach
Authors: Nath Bikram , Kumar Mondal Chandan
Published: March 2010

A two dimensional model approach for the photodetachment dynamics of closed shell anionic systems in presence of external light field have been proposed in the context of polar environmental media. The effects of strong coupling between the solvent polarization and the extra charge in the system were studied by a simple model. The electronic states of concerned halide ions are represented by a two dimensional model Hamiltonian with a potential V(x, y) = −V0e−σ(x2 + y2). The time dependent Fourier grid Hamiltonian method have been used to follow the detachment process with fairly high intensities of light. The environmental effects on the dynamics are sought to be modeled by two different ways. The first one was the presence of polar solvents which perturb the energy levels of anionic systems by changing the effective potential surface and the second one was allowing the fluctuation of the well depth randomly to mimic the system in a more realistic view point. The average detachment rate constant is calculated as a function of important parameters of the used light field to explain the effects of solvent field on the dynamical behavior of dipole bound anionic system at least in a qualitative way.
Polymerization Mechanism of α-Linear Olefin
Authors: Xing Wen-guo , Zhang Chang-qiao , Yu Ping , Liu Cheng-bu , Wei Yun-he
Published: March 2010

The density functional theory on the level of B3LYP/6–31G was empolyed to study the chain growth mechanism in polymerization process of α-linear olefin in TiCl3/AlEt2Cl catalytic system to synthesize drag reduction agent. Full parameter optimization without symmetry restrictions for reactants, products, the possible transition states, and intermediates was calculated. Vibration frequency was analyzed for all of stagnation points on the potential energy surface at the same theoretical level. The internal reaction coordinate was calculated from the transition states to reactants and products respectively. The results showed as flloes: (i) Coordination compounds were formed on the optimum configuration of TiCl3/AlEt2Cl. (ii) The transition states were formed. The energy difference between transition states and the coordination compounds was 40.687 kJ/mol. (iii) Double bond opened and Ti–C(4) bond fractured, and the polymerization was completed. The calculation results also showed that the chain growth mechanism did not essentially change with the increase of carbon atom number of α-linear olefin. From the relationship between polymerization activation energy and carbon atom number of the α-linear olefin, it can be seen that the α-linear olefin monomers with 6–10 carbon atoms had low activation energy and wide range. It was optimum to synthesize drag reduction agent by polymerization.
Limit Properties of One Dimensional Periodic Hopping Model
Authors: Zhang Yun-xin
Published: March 2010

One dimensional periodic hopping model is useful to understand the motion of microscopic particles in thermal noise environment. In this research, by formal calculation and based on detailed balance, the explicit expressions of the limits of mean velocity and diffusion constant of this model as the number of internal mechanochemical sates tend to infinity are obtained. These results will be helpful to understand the limit of the one dimensional hopping model. At the same time, the work can be used to get more useful results in continuous form from the corresponding ones obtained by discrete models.
ZnO Nanobelts and Hollow Microspheres Grown on Cu Foil
Authors: Zhuang Bin-ping , Lai Fa-chun , Lin Li-mei , Lin Ming-bao , Qu Yan , Huang Zhi-gao
Published: March 2010

ZnO nanobelts, hollow microspheres, and urchins have been prepared on copper foil via a simply low temperature evaporation route. The microstructure, morphologies, and photoluminescence of the ZnO nanostructures were studied with X-ray diffraction, Raman spectra, scanning electron microscopy and photoluminescence spectra. The width of the nanobelts was about 500 nm and the length was longer than 10 μm. The diameter of the hollow microspheres was between 5 and 10 μm. A possible growth mechanism of the nanobelts, microspheres and urchins was proposed. The photoluminescence spectrum exhibited strong deep level energy emissions and a weak near band edge emission. These ZnO nanostructures on a copper substrate have the advantages of naturally good adhesion and electrical connection between the ZnO nanostructures and the conductive substrate.
PSEUDO-RESPONSE REGULATORS 9, 7, and 5 Are Transcriptional Repressors in the Arabidopsis Circadian Clock
Authors: Nakamichi Norihito , Kiba Takatoshi , Henriques Rossana , Mizuno Takeshi , Chua Nam-Hai , Sakakibara Hitoshi
Published: March 2010

An interlocking transcriptional-translational feedback loop of clock-associated genes is thought to be the central oscillator of the circadian clock in plants. TIMING OF CAB EXPRESSION1 (also called PSEUDO-RESPONSE REGULATOR1 [PRR1]) and two MYB transcription factors, CIRCADIAN CLOCK ASSOCIATED1 (CCA1) and LATE ELONGATED HYPOCOTYL (LHY), play pivotal roles in the loop. Genetic studies have suggested that PRR9, PRR7, and PRR5 also act within or close to the loop; however, their molecular functions remain unknown. Here, we demonstrate that PRR9, PRR7, and PRR5 act as transcriptional repressors of CCA1 and LHY. PRR9, PRR7, and PRR5 each suppress CCA1 and LHY promoter activities and confer transcriptional repressor activity to a heterologous DNA binding protein in a transient reporter assay. Using a glucocorticoid-induced PRR5-GR (glucorticoid receptor) construct, we found that PRR5 directly downregulates CCA1 and LHY expression. Furthermore, PRR9, PRR7, and PRR5 associate with the CCA1 and LHY promoters in vivo, coincident with the timing of decreased CCA1 and LHY expression. These results suggest that the repressor activities of PRR9, PRR7, and PRR5 on the CCA1 and LHY promoter regions constitute the molecular mechanism that accounts for the role of these proteins in the feedback loop of the circadian clock.
Estimating hourly anaesthetic and surgical reimbursement from private medical insurers’ benefit maxima: implications for pricing services and for incentives
Authors: Stubbs D. , Ward M. E. , Pandit J. J.
Published: March 2010

While some speculation surrounds annual private practice incomes of anaesthetists, little is known of the hours of work needed to generate any presumed income (the hourly rate). The benefit maxima of five private medical insurers are published in fee schedules and data on the duration of common operations are now also known. In this study we combined these to generate estimates for hourly rates of reimbursement across 78 common operations in eight surgical subspecialties, for anaesthetists and surgeons. We expected to find significant differences between insurers as a result of market competition, and we expected differences between anaesthetists and surgeons. The median (IQR [range]) rate of reimbursement for anaesthetists was £167 (132–211 [68–570]).h−1 with significant variation across subspecialties (p < 0.001); for example, cardiac surgery was best reimbursed at £283 (257–308 [229–398]).h−1 and orthopaedics the least at £146 (133–159 [81–246]).h−1. Contrary to expectations, the rates of payment to anaesthetists by insurers were similar (p > 0.17). Patterns of reimbursement for surgeons were similar to those for anaesthetists, except that surgeons were reimbursed at about twice the rate. We conclude there is a confluence of insurer reimbursement levels and we discuss potential implications of this finding. Our results also have implications for how incentives between the NHS and private practice, or within a private practice group, might be optimally managed.
A comparison between the GlideScope® Video Laryngoscope and direct laryngoscope in paediatric patients with difficult airways – a pilot study
Authors: Karsli C. , Armstrong J. , John J.
Published: March 2010

The GlideScope® Video Laryngoscope may improve the view seen at laryngoscopy in adults who have a difficult airway. Manikin studies and case reports suggest it may also be useful in children, although prospective studies are limited in number. We hypothesised that the paediatric GlideScope will result in an improved view seen at laryngoscopy in children with a known difficult airway, compared to direct laryngoscopy. Eighteen children with a history of difficult or failed intubation were prospectively recruited. After inhalational induction, each patient had laryngoscopy performed using a standard blade followed by GlideScope videolaryngoscopy. The GlideScope yielded a significantly improved laryngoscopic view, both with (p = 0.003) and without (p = 0.004) laryngeal pressure. The mean (SD) time taken to achieve the optimal view was 20 (8)s using conventional laryngoscopy and 26 (22)s using the GlideScope® (p = 0.5). The GlideScope® significantly improves the laryngoscopic view obtained in children with a difficult airway.
Promoter methylation of sFRP5 in patients with ovarian clear cell adenocarcinoma
Authors: Ho Chih‐Ming , Lai Hung‐Cheng , Huang Shih‐Hung , Chien Tsai‐Yen , Lin Ming‐Chieh , Chang Shwu‐Fen
Published: March 2010

Eur J Clin Invest 2010; 40 (4): 310–318

Background  Specific tumour suppressor genes with promoter methylation in ovarian clear cell adenocarcinoma (OCCA) can be one important epigenetic mark distinguishing OCCA from ovarian serous adenocarcinoma (OSA), benign endometriotic cysts and normal ovarian epitheliums.

Materials and methods  Five OCCA cell lines, 63 cancer tissues (48 OCCA and 15 OSA), 10 benign endometriotic cysts and five normal ovarian epitheliums were analysed by methylation‐specific PCR using pooled DNAs to determine the methylation status of the promoter of the target genes, including genes for secreted frizzled‐related proteins (sFRP1 to 5), adenomatous polyposis coli (APC), retinoblastoma protein 1 (Rb1), breast cancer 1 gene (BRCA1), p14ARF, p15INK4b, p16INK4a and survivin. Methylation frequencies of identified targets were further analysed with individual DNA samples.

Results  The sFRP5 promoter was significantly methylated in all OCCA cell lines, with 64·6% in OCCA tissues compared with 13·3% in OSA, and 0% in benign endometriotic cysts and normal ovarian epitheliums (P < 0·0001). With a median follow‐up of 44 months, the expected 5‐year overall survival (OS) for patients with methylated sFRP5 promoter were significantly worse than for those with unmethylated sFRP5 (52% vs. 88%, P = 0·03). After adjusting for age, stage, and residual disease after primary surgery, patients with unmethylated sFRP5 promoter had an independent good prognostic factor in OS (P = 0·017).

Conclusion  The high percentage of promoter methylation in the sFRP5 gene in OCCA indicates its importance in the development of OCCA and is a potential useful marker for prognoses and target for treatment of OCCA.
Calcium scores and matrix Gla protein levels: association with vitamin K status
Authors: Rennenberg Roger J. M. W. , De Leeuw Peter W. , Kessels Alphons G. H. , Schurgers Leon J. , Vermeer Cees , Van Engelshoven Jos M. A. , Kemerink Gerrit J. , Kroon Abraham A.
Published: March 2010

Eur J Clin Invest 2010; 40 (4): 344–349

Background  Vascular calcification in humans is associated with an increased cardiovascular risk. Carboxylated matrix Gla protein (cMGP) inhibits vascular calcification. Vitamin K is an essential cofactor for the activation of uncarboxylated matrix Gla protein (ucMGP). It has been suggested that patients on long‐term treatment with vitamin K antagonists develop aortic valve calcifications because of lower levels of circulating MGP. We therefore hypothesized that arterial calcification and a low vitamin K status are associated with ucMGP. To that aim, we measured arterial calcium scores, the osteocalcin ratio (OCR), as a proxy for vitamin K status, and ucMGP.

Materials and methods  In 36 hypertensive patients, we determined the Agatston score with computer tomography scans of the abdominal aorta, carotid and coronary arteries. The total calcium score was calculated as the sum of the separate Z‐scores.

Results  The total calcium Z‐score was significantly correlated to age (r = 0·683, P < 0·001), smoking (r = 0·372, P = 0·026), total cholesterol (r = 0·353, P = 0·034), LDL cholesterol (r = 0·490, P = 0·003), triglycerides (r = 0·506, P = 0·002), fasting glucose (r = 0·454, P = 0·005), systolic blood pressure (r = 0·363, P = 0·029) and pulse pressure (r = 0·685, P < 0·001). In multivariate regression analyses, OCR and total calcium score were significantly associated with ucMGP.

Conclusions  We found a positive association of total arterial calcium score and a high OCR (reflecting low vitamin K status) with ucMGP serum levels. This warrants further studies to explore the pathophysiological background of this phenomenon.
Regulation of CD4 T‐cell receptor diversity by vaccine adjuvants
Authors: Baumgartner Christina K. , Malherbe Laurent P.
Published: March 2010

New vaccines based on soluble recombinant antigens (Ags) require adjuvants to elicit long‐lasting protective humoral and cellular immunity. Despite the importance of CD4 T helper cells for the generation of long‐lived memory B and CD8 T cells, the impact of adjuvants on CD4 T‐cell responses is still poorly understood. Adjuvants are known to promote dendritic cell (DC) maturation and migration to secondary lymphoid organs where they present foreign peptides bound to class II major histocompatibility complex molecules (pMHCII) to naïve CD4 T cells. Random and imprecise rearrangements of genetic elements during thymic development ensure that a vast amount of T‐cell receptors (TCRs) are present in the naïve CD4 T‐cell repertoire. Ag‐specific CD4 T cells are selected from this vast pre‐immune repertoire based on the affinity of their TCR for pMHCII. Here, we review the evidence demonstrating a link between the adjuvant and the specificity and clonotypic diversity of the CD4 T‐cell response, and consider the potential mechanisms at play.
A generic RT‐PCR assay for the detection of Luteoviridae
Authors: Chomič A. , Pearson M. N. , Clover G. R. G. , Farreyrol K. , Saul D. , Hampton J. G. , Armstrong K. F.
Published: March 2010

This study, using RT‐PCR, is the first comprehensive assessment since 1991 of a generic detection method for the Luteoviridae. Thirteen Luteoviridae species were detected using three separate sets of low‐degeneracy generic primers with RT‐PCR to amplify 68‐, 75‐ and 129/156‐bp regions of the Luteoviridae coat‐protein gene. Species detected include all members of the genus Luteovirus [Barley yellow dwarf virus (BYDV)‐PAV, BYDV‐PAS, BYDV‐MAV (129 and/or 156 bp amplicons), Soybean dwarf virus, Bean leafroll virus (68 bp amplicon)] and eight of nine species from the genus Polerovirus [Beet western yellows virus, Beet chlorosis virus, Beet mild yellowing virus, Turnip yellows virus, Potato leafroll virus, Cucurbit aphid‐borne yellows virus, Cereal yellow dwarf virus‐RPV (68‐bp amplicon) and Sugarcane yellow leaf virus (75‐bp amplicon)]. These primers were not able to detect Carrot red leaf virus, Sweet potato leaf speckling virus (both belong to unassigned Luteoviridae) and Pea enation mosaic virus‐1 (genus Enamovirus). A synthetic positive control containing all primer sequence priming sites was designed to facilitate this method as a generic tool for use with a variety of host plants. The Luteoviridae primers described in this study present a simple infection‐detection tool of benefit to biosecurity authorities in nursery‐stock surveillance, disease management or outbreak prevention, and may also be useful in detection of as‐yet undiscovered species within the Luteovirus and Polerovirus genera.
Genetic diversity and origin of Gayal and cattle in Yunnan revealed by mtDNA control region and SRY gene sequence variation
Authors: Gou X. , Wang Y. , Yang S. , Deng W. , Mao H.
Published: March 2010

There are hump, humpless cattle and gayal distributed in Yunnan province, south‐west China, but their genetic background remains unclear. To determine the origin and genetic diversity of Yunnan gayal and cattle (Diqing, Nujiang and Wenshan cattle), we analysed mtDNA control region sequences of 71 samples and SRY gene sequences of 39 samples, together with the available sequences in GenBank. The neighbour‐joining phylogeny and the reduced median network analysis showed that Yunnan gayal originated from the hybridization between male Bos frontalis and female Bos taurus or Bos indicus, and that Yunnan cattle mostly originated from B. indicus, also containing some hybrids of male B. indicus and female B. taurus. The phylogenetic pattern of Yunnan cattle was consistent with the recently described cattle matrilineal pool from China and indicated more contribution to the Yunnan cattle from B. indicus than from B. taurus.
Population genetic analysis of the Brahman cattle (Bos indicus) in Colombia with microsatellite markers
Authors: Novoa M.A. , Usaquén W.
Published: March 2010

Summary The Brahman is one of the most popular breeds for meat production in the Neotropics. However, genetic studies of the breed in Latin American countries have only recently begun. In total, 178 animals of the Brahman breed from 20 Colombian provinces were genotyped at 11 microsatellite markers with the aim of studying the genetic diversity of this population and its genetic relationships with zebuine and taurine breeds. The outcomes of multivariate analyses, Bayesian inferences and inter‐individual genetic distances suggested that there is no genetic sub‐structure in the population, because of the high rate of animal migration among provinces. The population shows a high degree of heterozygosity and allelic diversity compared with other breeds, reflecting its multibreed origin. The study of the genetic relationships among the breeds reveals that the Brahman breed belongs to the zebuine group. However, it is the population nearest to taurine breeds with high frequencies of taurine alleles. Intensive artificial selection may have favoured the taurine alleles after the breed was formed. There has also been some degree of mixture with local taurine breeds while the Brahman breed has evolved in Colombia.
Chemicals affecting the feeding preference of the Solanaceae‐feeding lady beetle Henosepilachna vigintioctomaculata (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae)
Authors: Hori M. , Nakamura H. , Fujii Y. , Suzuki Y. , Matsuda K.
Published: March 2010

The phytophagous lady beetle, Henosepilachna vigintioctomaculata, feeds mainly on potato, tomato, and eggplant leaves. The methanol extracts of tomato and eggplant leaves stimulated feeding activity in the adult beetles. The feeding stimulants from the lipid‐soluble fractions of tomato and eggplant leaves were found to be same compounds, identified as methyl linoleate and methyl linolenate. The feeding stimulants in the aqueous fractions of tomato leaves were identified as three sugars – fructose, glucose, and sucrose – and in eggplant leaves, the feeding stimulant was one sugar, sucrose. Although methyl linoleate and methyl linolenate were inactive without sugars, they acted synergistically with sugars, and the amounts of methyl linoleate, methyl linolenate, and sugars contained in tomato and eggplant leaves were adequate to stimulate feeding activity in the beetles. It is suggested that the synergisms of methyl esters of unsaturated fatty acid and sugars play important roles in host selection of this insect. Solanaceae species are often rich in alkaloids, which act as feeding deterrents for many insect species. Leaves of potato, Chinese wolfberry, and black nightshade, which are suitable hosts of H. vigintioctomaculata, contain α‐solanine and α‐chaconine as the main alkaloids. A mixture of α‐solanine and α‐chaconine showed neither feeding stimulant nor inhibitory activity at a concentration of 1 g leaf equivalents of the above plants. α‐Solanine and tomatine contained in tomato did not inhibit the beetle’s feeding at a concentration of 0.5%. On the contrary, nicotine and capsaicin contained in non‐hosts (tobacco and red pepper, respectively) showed feeding deterrent activities at a concentration of 0.1%. It is thought that adaptation of the beetles to alkaloids contained in solanaceous hosts also plays an important role in their host selection.
Histopathologic findings of transbronchial biopsy in usual interstitial pneumonia
Authors: Shim Hyo Sup , Park Moo Suk , Park In Kyu
Published: March 2010

The role of transbronchial biopsy in diagnosis of usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP) is controversial. In this study, we retrospectively reviewed transbronchial biopsy specimens according to the similar criteria of previous studies, and evaluated whether diagnostic findings of UIP could be found in transbronchial biopsies. Thirty two patients with usual interstitial pneumonia, confirmed by surgical lung biopsy, were identified. In three cases (9.4%), there were combinations of interstitial fibrosis and fibroblast foci, and these findings were considered consistent with usual interstitial pneumonia. No patchwork fibrosis or honeycomb change was found. Diagnostic findings of usual interstitial pneumonia were not frequently manifested in transbronchial biopsy specimens in our study (3 out of 32 cases, 9.4%), compared with a previous report (9 out of 22 cases, 41%). In conclusion, it cannot be claimed that transbronchial biopsy is more useful in confirming usual interstitial pneumonia than previously recognized. The primary and main role of transbronchial biopsy in diagnosis of usual interstitial pneumonia is thought not to confirm a diagnosis, but to exclude other infiltrative diseases, such as malignancy, sarcoidosis or infections.
Sexual dimorphism and sexual selection in a montane scincid lizard (Eulamprus leuraensis)
Authors: DUBEY SYLVAIN , CHEVALLEY MAYA , SHINE RICHARD
Published: March 2010

Sex‐based divergences in body sizes and/or shapes within a species imply that selective forces act differently on morphological features in malesversusfemales. That prediction can be tested with data on the relationship between morphology and reproductive output in females, and between morphology and realized paternity (based on genetic assignment tests) in males. In a sample of 81 field‐collected adult Blue Mountains water skinks (Eulamprus leuraensis), males and females averaged similar overall body sizes (snout–vent lengths (SVLs)). Reproductive success (based on 105 progeny produced by the females) increased with SVL at similar rates in both sexes (as expected from the lack of sexual size dimorphism). Multiple paternity was common. Males had larger heads than females of the same body size, and (as predicted) reproductive success increased with relative head size in males but not in females. Males also had relatively longer limbs and shorter trunks than females, but we did not detect significant sex differences in selection on those traits. Reproductive success in both sexes was increased by relatively longer hind limbs. Our data clarify mating systems in this endangered species, and suggest that mating systems are diverse within the genusEulamprus.
The prevalence of overweight and obesity among Danish school children
Authors: Krue S. , Coolidge J.
Published: March 2010

In 14 Danish municipalities physicians have gathered weight and height data from 7541 9th grade students (86.7% of all students in 9th grade participating). Overall 25.2% of the population were overweight (body mass index > 90th percentile). Boys were more frequently overweight than girls (29.3% vs. 21.1%) (P < 0.05). 14.1% of the boys and 8.2% of the girls were obese (body mass index > 97th percentile). Categorizing the participating municipalities by socioeconomic status students in municipalities with low status had a significantly higher prevalence of overweight than students in municipalities with high status. Overweight and obesity among Danish school children is a major concern and there are significant social differences in the prevalence of overweight.
Central nervous system involvement in patients with monoclonal gammopathy and polyneuropathy
Authors: Lehmann H. C. , Hoffmann F. R. , Meyer zu Hörste G. , Hartung H.‐P. , Kieseier B. C.
Published: March 2010

Background and purpose:  To evaluate clinical presentation of patients with the clinical triad of monoclonal gammopathy, polyneuropathy and signs of CNS involvement.

Methods:  Nineteen patients with monoclonal protein (M‐protein, 9 IgM, 10 IgG) were studied. Clinical examination, MRI, cerebrospinal fluid analysis and immune reactivity against myelin‐associated glycoprotein and gangliosides in serum were obtained. By immunohistochemistry, different binding patterns of M‐proteins to human CNS tissue were investigated.

Results:  Nine out of 19 patients (four IgM, five IgG) showed one or more clinical signs of CNS involvement. Clinical features associated with signs of CNS pathology were disease duration and greater concentration of IgM paraprotein. The IgM M‐protein of two patients strongly stained the cortex/cerebellar neurons in human brain sections.

Conclusion:  Our results complement previous reports that some patients with monoclonal gammopathy and polyneuropathy can develop solitary or disseminated signs of CNS involvement. It indicates that pathological effects of M‐proteins are not necessarily restricted to the peripheral nervous system. The specificity and affinity of circulating M‐protein to antigens in the CNS might be critical for the development of different clinical phenotypes.