bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance analysis of multi‐source multi‐relay wireless networks with co‐channel interference
Authors: Zhang T. , Cai Y. , Yang W.
Published: February 2013

The performance of multi‐source multi‐relay wireless networks based on a joint source‐relay‐selection scheme is investigated over Rayleigh interference‐limited fading channels. The tight lower bound and asymptotic expressions for the outage probability are derived and the diversity order of the system with/without co‐channel interference is further discussed. Simulation results are presented to demonstrate the validity of the theoretical analysis.
Joint mitigation of nonlinearity and modulator imperfections in dual‐band concurrent transmitter using neural networks
Authors: Rawat M. , Rawat K. , Younes M. , Ghannouchi F.
Published: February 2013

Reported, for the first time is a predistortion scheme for a concurrent dual‐band transmitter with a dual‐band concurrent Doherty power amplifier in the presence of modulator I/Q imbalance and DC offsets. Inverse PA modelling for predistortion is achieved using real valued time delayed neural networks. The model has been validated for a 10 W GaN based dual‐band concurrent Doherty power amplifier for wideband code division multiple access signals at 1960 and 3500 MHz, respectively, and an adjacent channel power ratio improvement of 18 dB is reported.
Broadband Fabry‐Pérot radiation based on non‐Foster cavity boundary
Authors: Debogović T. , Hrabar S. , Perruisseau‐Carrier J.
Published: February 2013

Fabry‐Pérot (FP) cavities having at least one partially reflective surface are widely used as compact and efficient high‐directivity radiators. However, they inherently suffer from very narrow directivity bandwidths around the FP resonance. Here it is shown that this constraint can be overcome by using an active non‐Foster cavity boundary behaving as a series negative LC tank circuit. Analytical and full‐wave numerical results reveal the possibility of nearly tenfold improvement of − 1 dB directivity bandwidth while preserving the original overall antenna size and directivity of the antenna.
Directional multi‐band antenna employing frequency selective surfaces
Authors: So H. , Ando A. , Seki T. , Kawashima M. , Sugiyama T.
Published: February 2013

Proposed is a concept of a directional multi‐band antenna employing frequency selective surfaces (FSSs). To confirm the feasibility of the concept, the proposal is implemented by combining a metal reflector, two FSSs that act as frequency filters, and a multi‐band radiator. The proposed triple‐band antenna can radiate at 800 MHz (the metal reflector or FSS 1), 2 GHz (FSS 2), and 4 GHz (FSS 3). FSS 2 passes waves at one frequency band (800 MHz) and reflects all other bands, and FSS 3 passes waves at two frequency bands (800 MHz/2 GHz) and reflects all other bands. Beam control is easy since all that is needed is to change FSS size and/or the distance between the radiator and metal reflector/FSS. Electromagnetic field simulations and measurements demonstrate good directivity in the frequency bands of 800 MHz, 2 GHz and 4 GHz.
Combined RFID tag antenna for recipients containing liquids
Authors: Quiroz R. , Alves T. , Poussot B. , Laheurte J.‐M.
Published: February 2013

In UHF RFID (radio frequency identification), passive tag antennas can be fixed on boxes or recipients where the nature and contents might vary. These variations strongly affect the antenna performance. A combined antenna is proposed to ensure an effective read‐range for a plastic recipient containing water or not. Two separate antennas are first designed for the filled and unfilled cases, respectively, then combined for a correct working in both configurations.
Butterfly packaged high‐speed and low leakage InGaAs quantum well photodiode for 2000nm wavelength systems
Authors: Yang H. , Ye N. , Phelan R. , O'Carroll J. , Kelly B. , Han W. , Wang X. , Nudds N. , MacSuibhne N. , Gunning F. , O'Brien P. , Peters F.H. , Corbett B.
Published: February 2013

An edge‐coupled high‐speed photodiode based on strained InGaAs quantum wells for detection at 2000nm is demonstrated. The fabricated device shows a leakage current as low as 120nA at −3V bias voltage and a responsivity of around 0.3A/W at 2000nm. The high‐speed butterfly packaging of the device is presented which shows a 3dB bandwidth of more than 10GHz. The device shows similar high‐speed performance at 1550nm.
Comparison of processing techniques for remote sensing of earth‐exploiting reflected radio‐navigation signals
Authors: D'Addio S. , Martin‐Neira M.
Published: February 2013

The use of signals transmitted by global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) as a tool for earth remote sensing has been attracting growing interest in recent years, in particular for spaceborne missions. For such techniques, several on‐board processing strategies have been proposed, either based on on‐board signal generation or based on ‘blind’ interferometric processing. Presented is a comprehensive comparison of these two categories of GNSS‐R processing techniques by introducing a generalised decomposition of the cross‐correlation waveform.
Localised back contact to ONO passivated c‐Si solar cells using laser fired contact method
Authors: Choi P.H. , Baek D.H. , Kim H.J. , Kim K.S. , Park H.S. , Lee J.H. , Yi J.S. , Choi B.D.
Published: February 2013

The localised back contact method for SiO2/SiNx/SiO2 (ONO) back surface passivated crystalline silicon solar cells has been investigated using a 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser. From the quasi‐steady‐state‐photoconductance measurements, feasible passivation properties of effective carrier lifetime (τeff), back surface recombination velocity (Seff) and diffusion length (LD) with the ONO passivated layer rather than with the SiNx single layer have been confirmed. Localised point back contacts were formed varying with dot diameter and dot spacing and then the cell performance was characterised from solar simulator measurements. It was confirmed that the cell performance is closely related to the back contact area which is determined by dot diameter and spacing, and dot spacing is the more crucial factor to determine the cell performance than diameter variations.
Hybrid WDM‐OFDMA‐PON utilising tunable generation of flat optical comb
Authors: Chen C. , Zhang C.F. , Zhang W. , Jin W. , Qiu K.
Published: February 2013

Proposed is a wavelength‐division multiplexed orthogonal frequency‐division multiple access passive optical network (WDM‐OFDMA‐PON) for both wired and wireless OFDM signal access, by using a tunable generation scheme of a flat optical comb. 17 comb lines with 30 GHz space and no more than 0.5 dB flatness are obtained theoretically and experimentally. The obtained flat optical comb is used as the optical source for 17 WDM channels in the proposed WDM‐OFDMA‐PON. A 16‐quadrature amplitude modulation OFDM signal achieving 10.85 Gbit/s traffic data is modulated onto each channel with double sideband modulation and the transmission for both wired and wireless access has been successfully demonstrated by experiment.
Classical calculations of radiative association in absence of electronic transitions
Authors: Gustafsson Magnus
Published: February 2013

A formula for the cross section of radiative association where no electronic transitions take place is derived and tested for diatomic molecules. The approach is based on classical mechanics and therefore it is valid for direct, i.e., non-resonant, radiative association. For the formation of carbon monoxide (CO) and the cyano radical (CN), in the X1Σ+ and A1Π states, respectively, the treatment reproduces the baselines of the cross sections obtained using quantum mechanical perturbation theory. The method overestimates the formation cross section of potassium sodide (NaK) by about 8%. For the lower mass diatoms hydrogen fluoride (HF) and deuterium hydride (HD), the formula overestimates the cross sections by 12% and 60%, respectively. The formula can be used alone for estimates of radiative association rate constants, or in combination with Breit-Wigner theory to include resonance contributions.
Evolution of polar order in (1 − x)Pb(In1/2Nb1/2)O3-xPbTiO3 (0 ≤ x ≤ 1) system as investigated by dielectric and Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Ramesh G. , Subramanian V. , Sivasubramanian V.
Published: February 2013

We have investigated the (1 − x)Pb(In1/2Nb1/2)O3 − xPbTiO3 (PIN-PT) solid solution by Raman scattering and temperature variation of dielectric measurement. The dielectric analysis indicates that the Burn's temperature (TB) raises upto x = 0.30 and then decreases due to the enhancement in the long range ferroelectric order. At x = 0.60, TB coincides with the temperature at which dielectric constant is maximum, Tm, (TB ∼ Tm). It suggests that the polar nanoregions (PNRs) are not present in 0.40PIN-0.60PT. The investigation confirms that PT addition in PIN transforms the PNRs into the macroscopic ferroelectric domains. The composition dependent Raman spectra are used to interpret the evolution of polar order. Qualitative Raman analysis reveals that the changes in the vibration bands are associated with the structural transition from R3m to P4mm at morphotrophic phase region. For the values of x > 0.41, the line-width of all the bands decreases as the concentration of PT increases. The observed two mode behavior in the highest frequency region (800 cm−1) hints the existence of chemical inhomogenetiy at nanometer scale such as the local segregation of Ti and In/Nb-rich regions.
Effective Strategy Implementation: Why Partnership Interconnectivity Matters
Authors: Holman Nancy
Published: February 2013

Planners and city officials are increasingly being encouraged to create and make use of a variety of partnerships designed to tackle ‘wicked issues’ in their localities. However, many of these partnerships are by nature ephemeral, lasting only as long as their funding exists or until their particular work package is completed. A great deal of attention is paid to the internal functioning of these partnerships, but rather less is paid to the structural elements involved in how these partnerships are mapped onto existing governing structures. This creates a problem where the knowledge generated by these partnerships may also be seen as ephemeral, adding to partnership fatigue and cynicism amongst stakeholders. By linking network structure and collaborative capacity, I explore the depth of penetration and longevity of the knowledge created in such local partnerships.
Crop management.
Authors: Whiley A. W. , Wolstenholme B. N. , Faber B. A.
Published: February 2013

This chapter focuses on some horticultural management procedures that can improve avocado orchard performance. The importance of the understanding the of the environment and the limitations or excesses it imposes on tree growth, which is critical for success in determining management strategies from orchard design onwards, is discussed and the importance of understanding the cost of management inputs and the returns from fruit is pointed out.
Atorvastatin-induced Cardioprotection of Human Myocardium Is Mediated by the Inhibition of Mitochondrial Permeability Transition Pore Opening via Tumor Necrosis Factor-α and Janus Kinase/Signal Transducers and Activators of Transcription Pathway
Authors: Lemoine Sandrine , Zhu Lan , Legallois Damien , Massetti Massimo , Manrique Alain , Hanouz Jean-Luc
Published: February 2013

Background:

The role of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription (JAK/STAT) pathway, and mitochondrial Permeability Transition Pore in atorvastatin-induced cardioprotection were examined in human myocardium, in vitro.

Methods:

Isometric force of contraction of human right atrial trabeculae was recorded during 30-min hypoxia and 60-min reoxygenation (control) and in the presence of atorvastatin (0.1 µm, 1 µm, 10 µm). In early reoxygenation, the TNF-α inhibitor, AG490 (inhibitor of JAK/STAT), or atractyloside (mitochondrial Permeability Transition Pore opener), were administered. Cyclosporine A (inhibitor of mitochondrial Permeability Transition Pore opening) was administered during the first minute of reoxygenation alone or in presence of atorvastatin and TNF-α inhibitor or AG490. The force of contraction (percentage of baseline) at the end of reoxygenation period was compared (mean ± SD; n = 6 in each group). Protein expression of JAK/STAT pathway was measured using Western immunoblotting.

Results:

Atorvastatin 0.1 µm (70 ± 9%), 1 µm (85 ± 5%), 10 µm (89 ± 5%), and Cyclosporine A (87 ± 10%) improved the recovery of force of contraction at the end of reoxygenation, as compared with control (50 ± 3%). Atorvastatin 1 µm (4.64 ± 2.90ng · ml−1 · g−1 of tissue) decreased the release of troponin Ic after hypoxia-reoxygenation (control: 26.34 ± 19.30ng · ml−1 · g−1; P < 0.001). The enhanced recovery of force of contraction after atorvastatin administration was abolished by TNF-α inhibitor (53 ± 8%), AG490 (56 ± 7%), atractyloside (48 ± 8%). Cyclosporine A restored the atorvastatin-induced cardioprotection abolished by TNF-α inhibitor (87 ± 6%) and AG490 (83 ± 9%). Atorvastatin significantly increased the phosphorylation of JAK-2 and STAT-3, TNF-α inhibitor abolished the enhanced phosphorylation of JAK-2 and STAT-3 by atorvastatin.

Conclusions:

Atorvastatin-induced cardioprotection involved the inhibition of the mitochondrial Permeability Transition Pore opening via the activation of TNF-α and the JAK/STAT pathway in early reoxygenation.
High-resolution DNA methylome analysis of primordial germ cells identifies gender-specific reprogramming in mice
Authors: Kobayashi Hisato , Sakurai Takayuki , Miura Fumihito , Imai Misaki , Mochiduki Kentaro , Yanagisawa Eikichi , Sakashita Akihiko , Wakai Takuya , Suzuki Yutaka , Ito Takashi , Matsui Yasuhisa , Kono Tomohiro
Published: February 2013

Dynamic epigenetic reprogramming occurs during mammalian germ cell development, although the targets of this process, including DNA demethylation and de novo methylation, remain poorly understood. We performed genome-wide DNA methylation analysis in male and female mouse primordial germ cells at embryonic days 10.5, 13.5, and 16.5 by whole-genome shotgun bisulfite sequencing. Our high-resolution DNA methylome maps demonstrated gender-specific differences in CpG methylation at genome-wide and gene-specific levels during fetal germline progression. There was extensive intra- and intergenic hypomethylation with erasure of methylation marks at imprinted, X-linked, or germline-specific genes during gonadal sex determination and partial methylation at particular retrotransposons. Following global demethylation and sex determination, CpG sites switched to de novo methylation in males, but the X-linked genes appeared resistant to the wave of de novo methylation. Significant differential methylation at a subset of imprinted loci was identified in both genders, and non-CpG methylation occurred only in male gonocytes. Our data establish the basis for future studies on the role of epigenetic modifications in germline development and other biological processes.
A potential molecular ferroelectric material: poly[[bis(1-aza-4-azoniabicyclo[2.2.2]octane)di-μ3-chlorido-tetra-μ2-chlorido-dichloridotricadmium(II)] dihydrate]
Authors: Zhou Qin-Qin , Jin Lei , Liao Wei-Qiang , Zhang Yi
Published: February 2013

The title compound, {[Cd3(C6H13N2)2Cl8]·2H2O}n, consists of pendant protonated cationic diamine ligands bonded to an anionic one-dimensional coordination polymer chloridocadmate scaffold. Each coordination chain features two kinds of CdIIcentre, each with distorted octahedral coordination geometry. One CdIIcation lies on a centre of inversion and is coordinated by six bridging chloride ligands, while the other is coordinated by four bridging chloride ligands, one terminal chloride ligand and a 1-aza-4-azoniabicyclo[2.2.2]octane aza N atom. This gives a reversible corner-sharing half-cubic linear polymer that lies along the crystallographicadirection. The chains interact through hydrogen bonding with solvent water, with each water molecule accepting one N—H...O interaction from a cation and donating to two O—H...Cl interactions with anionic chains, thus linking three separate chains and completing the packing structure.
The depiction of Polish migrants in the United Kingdom by the British press after Poland's accession to the European Union
Authors: Spigelman Ariel
Published: February 2013

Purpose

A negative framing of immigrants to stir populist sentiment is a widespread tactic repeatedly deployed by the British press. Following the accession of ten new and predominantly Eastern European member‐states to the European Union in 2004, this gambit was again utilised to provocatively portray migrant workers newly arriving in the United Kingdom as an external economic threat. The aim of this paper was to uncover the recurrent ways in which Polish migrants were emotively framed by the top daily British newspapers during this period of EU enlargement.

Design/methodology/approach

A bespoke collection of newspaper articles was assembled and examined using a corpus‐based discourse analysis. The analysis was subsequently triangulated with relevant responses to a series of public opinion surveys.

Findings

Results show that the British press conformed to classic media representations of migrants when referring to Poles in particular, by depicting them as an external economic threat “flooding” the country; in addition a novel stereotype of the “Polish plumber” was used to present them arriving to take the jobs of native manual labourers.

Originality/value

The study adds to the understanding of media attitudes towards new migrants in the UK, and demonstrates the utility of triangulated corpus‐based discourse analysis for those who seek to highlight systematic characterisations of migrants in the popular press.
Communication, work systems and HRD
Authors: Wayne Pace R.
Published: February 2013

Purpose

– The purpose of this article is to show the foundational place that communication theory and its practice occupies in functioning work systems.

Design/methodology/approach

– This paper defines the word communication in terms of the creation and interpretation of displays, describes what it means to have a theoretical foundation for a discipline, identifies and elaborates on the development driving force of human resource development (HRD), presents and explains a model of a work system in which HRD functions, and elaborates on the role, function, and place of communicative acts in the maintenance of the work system and the work of HRD professionals.

Findings

– The article posits that communication theory underlies the processes and activities of both scholars and practitioners of HRD. Finally, it argues that courses in communication theory and organizational communication are essential in the preparation of both scholars and practitioners.

Research limitations/implications

– Research on the vagaries of communication in work systems may need to focus on identifying the causes of more easily identified symptoms. Researchers must be constantly alert to the changing role of communication as both a symptom and a cause of effective and ineffective work system functioning.

Practical implications

– Since human resource development is applied, practiced, and used predominantly in work systems, sensitivity to the fundamental role that communication plays in work systems may allow HRD practitioners to take a communicative perspective in analyzing and solving problems.

Originality/value

– This article directs readers to the main, fundamental issue in organizations and highlights the central role of communication in the functioning and development of both the human resources and the work system.
Effect of Bacterial Pneumonia on Lung Simian Immunodeficiency Virus (SIV) Replication in Alcohol Consuming SIV‐Infected Rhesus Macaques
Authors: Nelson Steve , Happel Kyle I. , Zhang Ping , Myers Leann , Dufour Jason P. , Bagby Gregory J.
Published: February 2013

Background

Opportunistic infections in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐infected persons have been shown to increase the rate of HIV replication. In populations where prophylaxis against Pneumocystis pneumonia is utilized, bacterial pneumonia is now the leading cause of lower respiratory tract infection in HIV+ patients. Our prior studies have shown that chronic alcohol consumption in demarcated simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV)‐infected rhesus macaques increases plasma viral load set point and accelerates progression to end‐stage acquired immune deficiency syndrome. While chronic alcohol abuse is well known to increase the incidence and severity of bacterial pneumonia, the impact of alcohol consumption on local and systemic SIV/HIV burden during lung infection is unknown. Therefore, we utilized the macaque SIV infection model to examine the effect of chronic ethanol (EtOH) feeding on SIV burden during the course of pulmonary infection with Streptococcus pneumoniae, the most commonly identified etiology of bacterial pneumonia in HIV+ and HIV− persons in developed countries.

Methods

Alcohol was administered starting 3 months before SIVmac251 inoculation to the end of the study via an indwelling intragastric catheter to achieve a plasma alcohol concentration of 50 to 60 mM. Control animals received isocaloric sucrose. Four months after SIV infection, the right lung was inoculated with 2 × 106 CFU S. pneumoniae.

Results

Leukocyte recruitment into the lung, pulmonary bacterial clearance, and clinical course were similar between EtOH and control groups. While plasma SIV viral load was similar between groups postpneumonia, chronic EtOH‐fed macaques showed a prolonged increase in SIV RNA in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Alveolar macrophages isolated from EtOH‐fed macaques 1 day post‐pneumonia showed greater nuclear factor kappa beta (NF‐κB) activation.

Conclusions

This study indicates that chronic EtOH feeding results in enhanced local, but not systemic, SIV replication following pneumococcal pneumonia. Increased NF‐κB activity in the setting of chronic EtOH ingestion may play a mechanistic role in this observation.
How to administrate erythropoietin, intravenous or subcutaneous?
Authors: Costa Simonetta , Romagnoli Costantino , Zuppa Antonio Alberto , Cota Francesco , Scorrano Antonio , Gallini Francesca , Maggio Luca
Published: February 2013

Aim

To determine whether adding recombinant erythropoietin to the intravenous (IV) solution and administering it as a 24‐h continuous infusion would result in an erythropoietic effect not inferior to that seen with subcutaneous (SC) administration.

Methods

Infants weighing ≤1500 grams and ≤32 weeks of gestational age were randomly assigned at 72 h of life to receive erythropoietin (300 units/kg, 3 times a week until 36 complete weeks of postmenstrual age or discharge), either subcutaneously [erythropoietin subcutaneous (ESC) group] or added to IV fluids [erythropoietin intravenous (EIV) group].

Results

One hundred infants were randomized (50 in the EIV group and 50 in the ESC group). The incidence of transfusions was comparable in the two groups, similar in baseline characteristics and haematologic values at study entry. Phlebotomy losses did not differ between groups, and at the end of the study, there were no differences in reticulocyte counts, transferrin saturation and ferritin. No differences in the incidence of side effects were observed.

Conclusions

In preterm infants, continuous intravenous administration of erythropoietin was not inferior to SC dosing.
Functional characterization of isolated, perfused outermedullary descending human vasa recta
Authors: Sendeski M. M. , Liu Z. Z. , Perlewitz A. , Busch J. F. , Ikromov O. , Weikert S. , Persson P. B. , Patzak A.
Published: February 2013

Aim

The renal medulla plays an important role in the control of water and salt balance by the kidney. Outer medullary descending vasa recta (OMDVR) are microscopic vessels providing blood flow to the renal medulla. Data on the physiology of human vasa recta are scarce. Therefore, we established an experimental model of human single isolated, perfused OMDVR and characterized their vasoactivity in response to angiotensin II and to pressure changes.

Methods

Human non‐malignant renal tissue was obtained from patients undergoing nephrectomy due to renal cell carcinoma. OMDVR were dissected under magnification and perfused using concentric microscopic pipettes. The response of OMDVR to angiotensin II and pressure changes was quantified in serial pictures. All patients signed a consent form prior to surgery.

Results

Outer medullary descending vasa recta constricted significantly after bolus applications of angiotensin II. OMDVR constriction to angiotensin II was also concentration dependent. Response to luminal pressure changes was different according to the diameter of vessels, with larger OMDVR constricting after pressure increase, while smaller ones did not.

Conclusion

Outer medullary descending vasa recta constrict in response to angiotensin II and pressure increases. Our results show that OMDVR may take part in the regulation of medullary blood flow in humans. Our model may be suitable for investigating disturbances of renal medullary circulation in human subjects.
From Credit to Crisis: Max Weber, Karl Polanyi, and the Other Side of the Coin
Authors: Frerichs Sabine
Published: February 2013

The predicament of modern capitalism, and of contemporary finance capitalism in particular, is the fine line between credit and crisis. Recent developments from the American sub‐prime mortgage crisis to the European sovereign debt crisis revived debates about the nature of money and all sorts of derivatives. Money is a social phenomenon which has always two sides: an economic and a legal one. As an economic commodity, it hinges on the market; as a legal relation, it depends on the state. The resulting tension features prominently in the works of Max Weber and Karl Polanyi. Both studied the market society of the late‐nineteenth and early‐twentieth century, including its monetary institutions. Moreover, both were also aware of the political function of their related writings. The following review allows us to establish links between law, economy, and society and thus exemplify the economic sociology of law as it is foreshadowed by the sociological classics.
Liquidity Dynamics in an Electronic Open Limit Order Book: an Event Study Approach
Authors: Gomber Peter , Schweickert Uwe , Theissen Erik
Published: February 2013

We analyse the dynamics of liquidity in an electronic limit order book using the Exchange Liquidity Measure (XLM), a measure of the cost of a roundtrip trade of given size V. We use intraday event study methodology to analyse how liquidity shocks ‐ large transactions and Bloomberg ticker news ‐ affect the XLM. We find that resiliency after large transactions is high, i.e., liquidity quickly reverts to ‘normal’ levels. Large trades are ‘timed’; they take place at times when liquidity is unusually high. Bloomberg ticker news items do not have a discernible effect on liquidity.
Chilodonella uncinata is Not Pathogenic to Culex pipiens Mosquitoes
Authors: Spring Kevin J. , Zufall Rebecca A.
Published: February 2013

Chilodonella uncinata was previously reported to be pathogenic to Culex and other mosquitoes based on the observation of high densities of ciliates inside of dead mosquito larvae. Here, we tested whether co‐culturing Cx. pipiens with Ch. uncinata resulted in decreased survival of the mosquito larvae. We find no evidence that Ch. uncinata is pathogenic to Cx. pipiens. We suggest that Ch. uncinata may instead feed on already deceased larvae.
Harry Johnston's New Boot: The Uganda Agreement and Ideas of Development
Authors: McKnight Glenn H.
Published: February 2013

As an early development practitioner, Harry Johnston came to Uganda intending to develop a socially responsible capitalism – his ‘new boot’ for the Baganda. He negotiated this intent into the 1900 Uganda Agreement and expected that, once implemented, these conditions would lead naturally to the desired ends. What happened was something quite different. Baganda chiefs negotiated their own goals into the Agreement, and their actions, along with those of Baganda farmers and workers, produced very different results than that which Johnston envisioned. In effect, his intent to develop was subsumed by the contingent process of development. While interesting in itself, this story informs recent development debates. Some post‐development theorists, while attempting to provide a practical alternative to modernist development, appear to incorporate assumptions similar to those under which Johnston operated. However, if these laudable attempts are to succeed, they must learn from Johnston's experience and account for development's contingent nature.
Molecular Characterization of Whole Genomic RNA2 From Iranian Isolates of Grapevine Fanleaf Virus
Authors: Zarghani Shaheen Nourinejhad , Shams‐Bakhsh Masoud , Bashir Nemat Sokhandan , Wetzel Thierry
Published: February 2013

Grapevine fanleaf virus (GFLV) is the major causal agent of the grapevine degeneration disease. To characterize the genomic RNA2 segment from Iranian isolates of GFLV, leaf samples were collected from infected vineyards in different locations with a long history of vine cultivation. Four isolates were selected for cloning and sequencing on the basis of the restriction profiles of RT‐PCR products. The sequencing data revealed that the RNA2 of the Iranian GFLV isolates were the shortest compared with that of all previously described GFLV isolates. The sizes were 3730 nucleotides (nt) for Shir‐Amin and Urmia isolates and 3749 nt for Takestan and Bonab isolates (excluding the poly (A) tail), due to deletion events in both 5′ and 3′ non‐coding regions. In the phylogenetic tree based on the full‐length nucleotide sequences of GFLV RNA2, all the GFLV isolates clustered into two groups with the exception of the Hungarian isolate (GHu). The Iranian isolates grouped as a distinct cluster. Recombination analyses showed that GFLV‐NW (Germany), GFLV‐F13 (reference isolate), GFLV isolate Shir‐Amin (Iran) and Arabis mosaic virus isolate Lv were recombinant isolates and one of their parents belonged to the same lineage as the Iranian isolates. These findings suggest that these isolates originated from a common ancestor.
Patterns of chloroplast DNA polymorphism in the endangered polyploid Centaurea borjae (Asteraceae): Implications for preserving genetic diversity
Authors: LOPEZ Lua , BARREIRO Rodolfo
Published: February 2013

A previous study with amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) fingerprints found no evidence of genetic impoverishment in the endangered Centaurea borjae and recommended that four management units (MUs) should be designated. Nevertheless, the high ploidy (6x) of this narrow endemic plant suggested that these conclusions should be validated by independent evidence derived from non‐nuclear markers. Here, the variable trnT‐F region of the plastid genome was sequenced to obtain this new evidence and to provide an historical background for the current genetic structure. Plastid sequences revealed little genetic variation; calling into question the previous conclusion that C. borjae does not undergo genetic impoverishment. By contrast, the conclusion that gene flow must be low was reinforced by the strong genetic differentiation detected among populations using plastid sequences (global FST = 0.419). The spatial arrangement of haplotypes and diversity indicate that the populations currently located at the center of the species range are probable sites of long‐persistence whereas the remaining sites may have derived from a latter colonization. From a conservation perspective, four populations contributed most to the allelic richness of the plastid genome of the species and should be given priority. Combined with previous AFLP results, these new data recommended that five, instead of four, MUs should be established. Altogether, our study highlights the benefits of combining markers with different modes of inheritance to design accurate conservation guidelines and to obtain clues on the evolutionary processes behind the present‐day genetic structures.
Hydrogen peroxide alters sternohyoid muscle function
Authors: Shortt CM , O'Halloran KD
Published: February 2013

Upper airway (UA) dilator muscles are critical for the maintenance of airway patency. Injury or fatigue to this group of muscles, as observed in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) and animal models of OSA, may leave the UA susceptible to collapse. Although the mechanisms underlying respiratory muscle dysfunction are not completely understood, there is strong evidence suggesting a link between increased production of reactive oxygen species and altered muscle function. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of H2O2 on rat sternohyoid muscle function in vitro. Sternohyoid contractile and endurance properties were examined at 35°C under control or hypoxic conditions. Studies were conducted in the presence of varying concentrations of H2O2 (0, 0.01, 0.1 and 1 mM). Muscle function was also examined in the presence of antioxidants [desferoxamine (DFX), catalase] and the reducing agent dithiothreitol (DTT). H2O2 decreased muscle endurance in a concentration‐dependent manner. This was partially reversed by catalase, DFX and DTT. Our results suggest that oxidants may contribute to UA respiratory muscle dysfunction with implications for the control of UA patency in vivo.
Carbon transitions from either Calvin cycle or transitory starch to heteroglycans as revealed by 14C‐labeling experiments using protoplasts from Arabidopsis
Authors: Malinova Irina , Steup Martin , Fettke Joerg
Published: February 2013

Plants metabolize transitory starch by precisely coordinated plastidial and cytosolic processes. The latter appear to include the action of water‐soluble heteroglycans (SHGin) whose monosaccharide pattern is similar to that of apoplastic glycans (SHGex) but, unlike SHGex, SHGin strongly interacts with glucosyl transferases. In this study, we analyzed starch metabolism using mesophyll protoplasts from wild‐type plants and two knock‐out mutants [deficient in the cytosolic transglucosidase, disproportionating isoenzyme 2 (DPE2) or the plastidial phosphoglucomutase (PGM1)] from Arabidopsis thaliana. Protoplasts prelabeled by photosynthetic 14CO2 fixation were transferred to an unlabeled medium and were darkened or illuminated. Carbon transitions from the Calvin cycle or from starch to both SHGin and SHGex were analyzed. In illuminated protoplasts, starch turn‐over was undetectable but darkened protoplasts continuously degraded starch. During illumination, neither the total 14C content nor the labeling patterns of the sugar residues of SHGin were significantly altered but both the total amount and the labeling of the constituents of SHGex increased with time. In darkened protoplasts, the 14C‐content of most of the sugar residues of SHGin transiently and strongly increased and then declined. This effect was not observed in any SHGex constituent. In darkened DPE2‐deficient protoplasts, none of the SHGin constituents exhibited an essential transient increase in labeling. In contrast, some residues of SHGin from the PGM1 mutant exhibited a transient increase in label but this effect significantly differed from that of the wild type. Two conclusions are reached: first, SHGin and SHGex exert different metabolic functions and second, SHGin is directly involved in starch degradation.
An Open Pilot Feasibility Study of a Brief Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills–Based Intervention for Suicidal Individuals
Authors: Ward‐Ciesielski Erin F.
Published: February 2013

This open trial sought to develop and evaluate the preliminary feasibility and effectiveness of a brief, one‐time, dialectical behavior therapy skills–based intervention with specific focus on ensuring acceptability to nontreatment‐seekers. Treatment‐seeking and nontreatment‐seeking suicidal individuals were recruited successfully from the community. Both groups found the intervention valuable. Suicide ideation was significantly lower at the 1‐month follow‐up, while use of the specific skills taught in the intervention increased significantly across time points. These results suggest that the intervention is both acceptable to the target population and that it has potential effectiveness as an intervention for individuals experiencing suicidal ideation.
Welfare and Democratization – Comparing Croatia, Serbia and Macedonia
Authors: Stambolieva Marija
Published: February 2013

The article discusses the main determinants of welfare transformation after the regime change from communism towards democracy. The states of the former Yugoslavia, notwithstanding a common welfare state structure, albeit at different quality levels, after departing communism developed diverse trajectories. In response to the wars, war‐related consequences and growing economic pressures, the national political elites in Yugoslav successor states initially extended welfare provisions and thus thwarted popular mobilization. The international actors' agenda gained ground in a setting characterized by nationalistic resentments, popular disorientation and elite capture. What the analyzed country cases suggest is that democratization has contributed to making reforms more responsive to public concerns. On the other hand, ‘defective’ systems continue to impede economic development and compromise the welfare state's redistributive role.
Canine osteosarcoma cells exhibit resistance to aurora kinase inhibitors
Authors: Cannon C. M. , Pozniak J. , Scott M. C. , Ito D. , Gorden B. H. , Graef A. J. , Modiano J. F.
Published: February 2013

We evaluated the effect of Aurora kinase inhibitors AZD1152 and VX680 on canine osteosarcoma cells. Cytotoxicity was seen in all four cell lines; however, half‐maximal inhibitory concentrations were significantly higher than in human leukaemia and canine lymphoma cells. AZD1152 reduced Aurora kinase B phosphorylation, indicating resistance was not because of failure of target recognition. Efflux mediated by ABCB1 and ABCG2 transporters is one known mechanism of resistance against these drugs and verapamil enhanced AZD1152‐induced apoptosis; however, these transporters were only expressed by a small percentage of cells in each line and the effects of verapamil were modest, suggesting other mechanisms contribute to resistance. Our results indicate that canine osteosarcoma cells are resistant to Aurora kinase inhibitors and suggest that these compounds are unlikely to be useful as single agents for this disease. Further investigation of these resistance mechanisms and the potential utility of Aurora kinase inhibitors in multi‐agent protocols is warranted.
Three-dimensional GaN templates for molecular beam epitaxy of nonpolar InGaN/GaN coaxial light-emitting diodes
Authors: Rishinaramangalam Ashwin K. , Fairchild Michael N. , Hersee Stephen D. , Balakrishnan Ganesh , Feezell Daniel F.
Published: February 2013

This work highlights the development of three-dimensional (3D) GaN templates grown by metal organic vapor phase epitaxy (MOVPE). These templates are ideally suited for the subsequent growth of nonpolar (11¯00) m-plane InGaN-based coaxial wire/wall light-emitting diodes (LEDs) using molecular beam epitaxy (MBE). The use of MBE is expected to result in increased indium incorporation on the (11¯00) m-plane, compared with growth using MOVPE, which provides an attractive approach for the development of nonpolar green LEDs. While planar free-standing m-plane GaN substrates are prohibitively expensive (approximately ∼$500 per cm2), the coaxial LED approach offers an attractive lower-cost alternative. These nonpolar nanoscale LED templates are also free from threading dislocations and are expected to provide a number of benefits, including higher light extraction and a larger effective active region area. Previous work in our group has demonstrated the controlled growth of GaN nanowires using a catalyst-free selective-area MOVPE growth method. The present work extends this method to grow 3D GaN templates in various aperture geometries, resulting in smooth m-plane GaN using a scalable and industrially viable high-quality GaN growth technique. In addition to m-plane sidewalls, the authors also demonstrate semipolar (11¯01) inclined sidewalls. This orientation has been shown to incorporate indium at a higher rate during MOVPE growth, in comparison to both c-plane and m-plane.
An Integral View of Fast Shocks Around Supernova 1006
Authors: Nikolić Sladjana , van de Ven Glenn , Heng Kevin , Kupko Daniel , Husemann Bernd , Raymond John C. , Hughes John P. , Falcón-Barroso Jesús
Published: February 2013

A Supernova in 3D

When a star explodes, it expels matter at supersonic speeds.

Nikolić
et al.

(p.
45
, published online 14 February) used integral-field spectroscopy to obtain high-resolution, spatially resolved spectra of the shock waves associated with supernova 1006. The physical characteristics of the shocks around this supernova exhibit a strong spatial variation that suggests the presence of suprathermal (∼10 to 100 keV) protons, which are the potential seeds for generating cosmic rays.
The Genome of Cronobacter sakazakii Bacteriophage vB_CsaP_GAP227 Suggests a New Genus within the
Autographivirinae
Authors: Abbasifar Reza , Kropinski Andrew M. , Sabour Parviz M. , Ackermann Hans-Wolfgang , Alanis Villa Argentina , Abbasifar Arash , Griffiths Mansel W.
Published: February 2013

The genome of
Cronobacter sakazakii
podovirus vB_CsaP_GAP227 was fully sequenced. The DNA of this lytic phage consists of 41,796 bp and has a G+C content of 55.7%. Forty-nine open reading frames and no tRNAs were identified. This phage is related to
Yersinia
phages ϕR8-01 and ϕ80-18 and
Aeromonas
phage phiAS7.
Complete Genome Sequence of the Alfalfa Symbiont
Sinorhizobium
/Ensifer meliloti Strain GR4
Authors: Martínez-Abarca Francisco , Martínez-Rodríguez Laura , López-Contreras José Antonio , Jiménez-Zurdo José Ignacio , Toro Nicolás
Published: February 2013

We present the complete nucleotide sequence of the multipartite genome of
Sinorhizobium
/
Ensifer meliloti
GR4, a predominant rhizobial strain in an agricultural field site. The genome (total size, 7.14 Mb) consists of five replicons: one chromosome, two expected symbiotic megaplasmids (pRmeGR4c and pRmeGR4d), and two accessory plasmids (pRmeGR4a and pRmeGR4b).
Complete Genome Sequence of Human Adenovirus Type 7 Associated with Fatal Infant Pneumonia
Authors: Tang Liuying , An Junjing , Yu Pengbo , Xu Wenbo
Published: February 2013

The Chinese human adenovirus 7 (HAdV7) 0901HZ/ShX/CHN/2009 was isolated from the hydrothorax fluid of an infant with fatal pneumonia in Shaanxi, China, in 2009. Comparison of the entire genome with the genomes of the other 10 strains of HAdV7 from GenBank revealed homologies of 89.9 to 99.9%, with geographic polymorphism among HAdV-7 field strains circulating in mainland China.
Genome of
Cupriavidus
sp. HMR-1, a Heavy Metal-Resistant Bacterium
Authors: Li Li-Guan , Cai Lin , Zhang Tong
Published: February 2013

Cupriavidus
sp. HMR-1 was isolated from a heavy metal-enriched culture of activated sludge from a wastewater treatment plant in Hong Kong. Here, we release the HMR-1 genome to provide basic genetic characteristics for a better understanding of its multiple heavy metal resistance properties.
Exploring education and training needs among the palliative care workforce
Authors: Ingleton Christine , Gardiner Clare , Seymour Jane E , Richards Naomi , Gott Merryn
Published: February 2013

Objectives

Education and training are seen as ‘absolutely essential parts of providing palliative care’. As part of a larger study to explore the extent of palliative care need in two acute hospital settings, we report the perceptions of healthcare professionals regarding their training and educational needs.

Methods

In Phase 1, we undertook eight focus groups and four individual interviews with 58 health professionals from general practice, specialist palliative care and acute hospitals, exploring perceived education and training priorities. Phase 2 of the study involved a survey of palliative care need at two hospitals in England. Hospital based doctors and nurses completed questionnaires to identify patients with palliative care needs and to respond to questions about their training and education needs.

Results

Various barriers exist to the provision and management of palliative care, not least a need for more education and training. Focus group participants felt they were not adequately trained to address prognosis and goals of care with patients and their families. In Phase 2 of the study, 171 nursing staff and 81 medical staff completed the questionnaire and two-thirds of our sample felt they required additional training in palliative care.

Conclusions

Although important, the use of standardised care pathways alongside the provision of education and training for healthcare professionals alone will not improve quality of care. More work is needed to examine and clarify the interplay of: behaviour change, setting, the ‘cure’ orientation approach, type of health professional and nature of any educational intervention in order to effect sustained behavioural change.
Peroxisome Formation and Maintenance Are Dependent on the Endoplasmic Reticulum
Authors: Tabak Henk F. , Braakman Ineke , Zand Adabella van der
Published: February 2013

Looks can be deceiving. Although peroxisomes appear to be simple organelles, their formation and maintenance pose unique challenges for the cell. The birth of new peroxisomes starts at the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), which delivers lipids and membrane proteins. To form a new peroxisomal compartment, ER-derived preperoxisomal vesicles carrying different membrane proteins fuse, allowing the assembly of the peroxisomal translocon. To complete formation, peroxisomes import their soluble proteins directly from the cytosol using the newly assembled translocon. Together with the ER-derived biogenic route, peroxisomal fission and segregation subsequently maintain the cellular peroxisome population. In this review we highlight the latest insights on the life cycle of peroxisomes and show how the new cell biology concept of peroxisome formation affects our thinking about peroxisome-related diseases and their evolutionary past. The future challenge lies in the identification of all the proteins involved in this elaborate biogenic process and the dissection of their mechanism of action.
Activation of hypoxia-inducible factor-1 in pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells by endothelin-1
Authors: Pisarcik Sarah , Maylor Julie , Lu Wenju , Yun Xin , Undem Clark , Sylvester J. T. , Semenza Gregg L. , Shimoda Larissa A.
Published: February 2013

Numerous cellular responses to hypoxia are mediated by the transcription factor hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1). HIF-1 plays a central role in the pathogenesis of hypoxic pulmonary hypertension. Under certain conditions, HIF-1 may utilize feedforward mechanisms to amplify its activity. Since hypoxia increases endothelin-1 (ET-1) levels in the lung, we hypothesized that during moderate, prolonged hypoxia ET-1 might contribute to HIF-1 signaling in pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells (PASMCs). Primary cultures of rat PASMCs were treated with ET-1 or exposed to moderate, prolonged hypoxia (4% O2 for 60 h). Levels of the oxygen-sensitive HIF-1α subunit and expression of HIF target genes were increased in both hypoxic cells and cells treated with ET-1. Both hypoxia and ET-1 also increased HIF-1α mRNA expression and decreased mRNA and protein expression of prolyl hydroxylase 2 (PHD2), which is the protein responsible for targeting HIF-1α for O2-dependent degradation. The induction of HIF-1α by moderate, prolonged hypoxia was blocked by BQ-123, an antagonist of ET-1 receptor subtype A. The effects of ET-1 were mediated by increased intracellular calcium, generation of reactive oxygen species, and ERK1/2 activation. Neither ET-1 nor moderate hypoxia induced the expression of HIF-1α or HIF target genes in aortic smooth muscle cells. These results suggest that ET-1 induces a PASMC-specific increase in HIF-1α levels by upregulation of HIF-1α synthesis and downregulation of PHD2-mediated degradation, thereby amplifying the induction of HIF-1α in PASMCs during moderate, prolonged hypoxia.