bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Destabilization of CARP mRNAs by aloe‐emodin contributes to caspase‐8‐mediated p53‐independent apoptosis of human carcinoma cells
Authors: Lin Meng‐Liang , Lu Yao‐Cheng , Su Hong‐Lin , Lin Hsin‐Ting , Lee Chuan‐Chun , Kang Shang‐En , Lai Tan‐Chen , Chung Jing‐Gung , Chen Shih‐Shun
Published: February 2011

Using short hairpin RNA against p53, transient ectopic expression of wild‐type p53 or mutant p53 (R248W or R175H), and a p53‐ and p21‐dependent luciferase reporter assay, we demonstrated that growth arrest and apoptosis of FaDu (human pharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma), Hep3B (hepatoma), and MG‐63 (osteosarcoma) cells induced by aloe‐emodin (AE) are p53‐independent. Co‐immunoprecipitation and small interfering RNA (siRNA) studies demonstrated that AE caused S‐phase cell cycle arrest by inducing the formation of cyclin A–Cdk2–p21 complexes through extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) activation. Ectopic expression of Bcl‐XL and siRNA‐mediated Bax attenuation significantly inhibited apoptosis induced by AE. Cyclosporin A or the caspase‐8 inhibitor Z‐IETD‐FMK blocked AE‐induced loss of mitochondrial membrane potential and prevented increases in reactive oxygen species and Ca++. Z‐IETD‐FMK inhibited AE‐induced apoptosis, Bax expression, Bid cleavage, translocation of tBid to mitochondria, ERK phosphorylation, caspase‐9 activation, and the release of cytochrome c, apoptosis‐inducing factor (AIF), and endonuclease G from mitochondria. The stability of the mRNAs encoding caspase‐8 and ‐10‐associated RING proteins (CARPs) 1 and 2 was affected by AE, whereas CARP1 or 2 overexpression inhibited caspase‐8 activation and apoptosis induced by AE. Collectively, our data indicate AE induces caspase‐8‐mediated activation of mitochondrial death pathways by decreasing the stability of CARP mRNAs in a p53‐independent manner. J. Cell. Biochem. 112: 1176–1191, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
LPA1‐induced migration requires nonmuscle myosin II light chain phosphorylation in breast cancer cells
Authors: Kim Jong Hyun , Adelstein Robert S.
Published: February 2011

The enhanced migration found in tumor cells is often caused by external stimuli and the sequential participation of cytoskeleton‐related signaling molecules. However, until now, the molecular connection between the lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) receptor and nonmuscle myosin II (NM II) has not been analyzed in detail for LPA‐induced migration. Here, we demonstrate that LPA induces migration by activating the LPA1receptor which promotes phosphorylation of the 20 kDa NM II light chain through activation of Rho kinase (ROCK). We show that LPA‐induced migration is insensitive to pertussis toxin (PTX) but does require the LPA1receptor as determined by siRNA and receptor antagonists. LPA activates ROCK and also increases GTP‐bound RhoA activity, concomitant with the enhanced membrane recruitment of RhoA. LPA‐induced migration and invasion are attenuated by specific inhibitors including C3 cell‐permeable transferase and Y‐27632. We demonstrate that NM II plays an important role in LPA‐induced migration and invasion by inhibiting its cellular function with blebbistatin and shRNA lentivirus directed against NM II‐A or II‐B. Inhibition or loss of either NM II‐A or NM II‐B in 4T1 cells results in a decrease in migration and invasion. Restoration of the expression of NM II‐A or NM II‐B also rescued LPA‐induced migration. Taken together, these results suggest defined pathways for signaling through the LPA1receptor to promote LPA‐mediated NM II activation and subsequent cell migration in 4T1 breast cancer cells. J. Cell. Physiol. 226: 2881–2893, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Long‐term follow‐up of botulinum toxin therapy for focal hand dystonia: Outcome at 10 years or more
Authors: Lungu Codrin , Karp Barbara I. , Alter Katharine , Zolbrod, Regina , Hallett Mark
Published: February 2011

Background:

Previous studies have explored the efficacy and safety of botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) treatment for Focal hand dystonia (FHD), but none have followed a large number of patients for 10 years or more.

Methods:

Retrospective study, with benefit and weakness assessed on a 0 to 4 subjective scale. Demographic, clinical and treatment characteristics were analyzed using t tests and Pearson correlations.

Results:

Twenty FHD patients had 10 years or longer treatment. Interinjection intervals were variable. Musicians were more likely to wait longer between injections and had less complex dystonia. There was a trend for larger benefit in women and with shorter intervals. The dose increased over time. Dystonia characteristics did not predict response or side‐effects, but benefit magnitude predicted longer compliance. No serious side‐effects or antibody‐mediated resistance occurred.

Conclusion:

This is the longest reported period of BoNT treatment in the largest FHD cohort. BoNT therapy for FHD remains safe and effective after more than a decade of treatment. © 2011 Movement Disorder Society
Spectral localization by imaging using multielement receiver coils
Authors: An Li , Warach Steven , Shen Jun
Published: February 2011

A new spectral localization technique for in vivo magnetic resonance spectroscopy is introduced. Structural information extracted from anatomical imaging is used for defining compartments which provide the basis for spectral localization. The inherent spatial heterogeneity of multiple receiver coil elements is used along with optional phase encoding to resolve signals from different compartments. This technique allows a few compartmental spectra to be reconstructed from multichannel data acquired with no or very few phase encoding steps, resulting in short scan time and high efficiency. Alternatively, this technique also allows a significant number of compartmental spectra to be reconstructed if sufficient phase encoding steps are used. A procedure is developed to semiautomatically generate a significant number of compartments of comparable sizes, which allows one to obtain spectra from small regions of interest with curvilinear shapes. This may be useful for obtaining spectra from relatively small stroke lesions or tumors. Phantom experiments and in vivo magnetic resonance spectroscopy of stroke patients have been performed to demonstrate this technique. Magn Reson Med, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A call to arms for task parallelism in multi‐scale materials modeling
Authors: Barton Nathan R. , Bernier Joel V. , Knap Jaroslaw , Sunwoo Anne J. , Cerreta Ellen K. , Turner Todd J.
Published: February 2011

Simulations based on multi‐scale material models enabled by adaptive sampling have demonstrated speedup factors exceeding an order of magnitude. The use of these methods in parallel computing is hampered by dynamic load imbalance, with load imbalance measurably reducing the achieved speedup. Here we discuss these issues in the context of task parallelism, showing results achieved to date and discussing possibilities for further improvement. In some cases, the task parallelism methods employed to date are able to restore much of the potential wall‐clock speedup. The specific application highlighted here focuses on the connection between microstructure and material performance using a polycrystal plasticity‐based multi‐scale method. However, the parallel load balancing issues are germane to a broad class of multi‐scale problems. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Self‐care practices among young adult married women
Authors: Woods Nancy F.
Published: February 2011

The purpose of this study was to explore the universal and illness‐related, self‐care activities employed by young adult women. Ninety‐six women 20 to 40 years of age kept a daily health diary for 3 weeks in which they reported their regular health care, symptoms experienced each day, and self‐care actions in response to symptoms. Women reported a total of 1,140 universal self‐care activities over the 3‐week period. Vitamin use accounted for over half of the self‐care activities, with contraceptive use and prescription medications each accounting for 15% to 20% of universal self‐care activities. The women engaged in a total of 464 illness‐related, self‐care activities. Self‐care patterns revealed a variety of self‐care measures and coping with symptoms in ways specific to the symptoms.
Going beyond the narrative summarization of research findings: The meta‐analysis approach
Authors: Curlette William L. , Cannella Kathleen Silva
Published: February 2011

Meta‐analysis, a method for summarizing empirical studies, has been advocated in many areas of behavioral research. Expanding on existing literature, this article provides an overview of meta‐analysis with particular emphasis on its strengths and limitations. Overall, the quantitative approaches employed in meta‐analysis offer many advantages as a literature review procedure. Even if meta‐analysis is not adopted as the literature review method, awareness of the issues it raises can improve the traditional narrative summarization approach.
Reducing acute confusional states in elderly patients with hip fractures
Authors: Williams Margaret A. , Campbell Emily B. , Raynor William J. , Mlynarczyk Susan M. , Ward Sandra E.
Published: February 2011

The extent to which the incidence of postoperative acute confusional states could be reduced in elderly (⩾ age 60) patients with hip fractures was tested. Interpersonal and environmental nursing interventions were carried out with 57 patients on orthopedic units in three hospitals. The incidence of confusion was reduced from 51.5% in the comparison group (n= 170) to 43.9%. Analysis that controlled for risk factors in the two groups showed the drop in incidence to be significant (p<.02). The most effective interventions appeared to be those that provided orientation and clarification, corrected sensory deficit, and increased continuity of care.
College choice among prospective health professions majors: Implications for nursing education
Authors: Chapman David W. , Holzemer William L.
Published: February 2011

Factors associated with high school students' decisions to pursue health‐related fields of study were investigated using the “Survey of Future Plans of High School Seniors.” Data from 10,878 seniors were analyzed using regression and discriminant analysis. Results indicated that: (a) The applicant pool for health professions overlapped most with the applicant pool for education, but education majors were characterized by lower academic aptitude; (b) the specific characteristics of a college were less important to those entering health professions than to those entering other majors; and, (c) health profession applicants with higher academic aptitude purport life goals more consistent with professional advancement than do lower aptitude applicants.
Experiencing hearing loss in later life: A comparison of deaf and hearing‐impaired older women
Authors: Magilvy Joan K.
Published: February 2011

The effects of hearing loss on the lives of two groups of older women are described: those provocationally deaf (n = 27) and those who experienced a later onset of hearing loss with aging (n = 39). The women, aged 54–96 years, were interviewed in their homes using their preferred mode of communication; open‐ended questions and the Hearing Handicap Inventory of the Elderly were used to assess social and emotional aspects of hearing loss and perceived handicap. Data were analyzed descriptively and the two groups compared on several variables. Both groups of women experienced a high degree of handicap, but expressed their problems differently. Later onset subjects emphasized emotional and situational problems while prevocationally deaf subjects expressed communication difficulty.
Preparation and applications of novel fluoroalkyl end‐capped oligomers/polyimide/silica nanocomposites
Authors: Goto Yuki , Otsuka Nobuyuki , Sawada Hideo
Published: February 2011

Fluoroalkyl end‐capped acrylic acid, N,N‐dimethylacrylamide, N‐(1,1‐dimethyl‐3‐oxobutyl)acrylamide and vinyltrimethoxysilane oligomers reacted with polyamic acid possessing trimethoxysilyl groups under alkaline conditions to yield the corresponding fluoroalkyl end‐capped oligomers/polyamic acid/silica nanocomposites. These isolated fluorinated composite powders were found to afford nanometer size‐controlled fine particles with a good dispersibility and stability in water and traditional organic solvents. We succeeded in preparing new fluoroalkyl end‐capped oligomers/polyimide/silica nanocomposites by the imidization of fluorinated polyamic acid silica nanocomposites through the stepwise heating at 110 and 270°C under air atmosphere conditions. These fluorinated polyimide/silica nanocomposites thus obtained were applied to the surface modification of glass and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) to exhibit good hydro‐ and oleo‐phobic characteristics imparted by fluoroalkyl groups in the composites on their surface. In addition, the surface morphology of the modified glass treated with these fluorinated nanocomposites were analyzed by using FE‐SEM and DFM. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Electro‐optical characteristics in phase separated liquid crystal/photo‐curable acrylic monomer mixture system
Authors: Ho Czung‐Yu , Tsai Pei‐Shiuan , Lin Huann‐Gang , Li Fong‐Ching , Lin Fa‐Hsin , Lee Jiunn‐Yih
Published: February 2011

One of the main objectives of the experiment was to achieve the vertical aligned (VA) effect. To accomplish this, we employed liquid crystal (LC)/photo‐curable acrylic monomers mixture systems to prepare vertical alignment copolymer film (VACOF) for LC molecules with the photo‐polymerization induce phase separation (PIPS) process.

From previous experimental results, we successfully fabricated LC devices without the micro‐protrusion structure. After the application of a saturated voltage, the LC molecules actually exhibited such interesting phenomena as uniaxial orientation, uniform single‐domain display state, etc. In this study, to obtain VACOF with smooth surface, we similarly controlled appropriate experimental conditions such as UV light exposure intensity and curing temperature, and altered process parameters such as the cell thickness, chemical structure length of the main chain type biphenol acrylic monomer [to simulate the main chain function of the traditional vertical alignment type polyimide (PI)], etc.

During the experiment, we discovered that regardless of the cell thickness, this photo‐alignment system would yield the VACOF instead of the polymer disperse liquid crystal (PDLC) film morphology. Another notable finding was that the contrast ratio was heavily influenced by the length of the main chain type acrylic monomer structure for LC/monomer mixture systems, with enhancement of up to ∼56%. Therefore, we further investigated the display effects, electro‐optical properties, etc. for these two main chain type acrylic monomer systems with different lengths and cell thicknesses. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Theoretical study on low‐lying states of HAlO+ and HOAl+ cations
Authors: Li Wen‐Zuo , Geng Fang , Pei Yu‐Wei , Cheng Jian‐Bo , Li Qing‐Zhong , Gong Bao‐An
Published: February 2011

Some low‐lying states of HAlO+ and HOAl+ cations have been studied using the complete‐active‐space self‐consistent field (CASSCF) and multiconfiguration second‐order perturbation theory (CASPT2) methods with the contracted atomic natural orbital (ANO) basis sets. The geometries of all stationary points along the potential energy surfaces were optimized at the CASSCF/ANO and CASPT2/ANO levels. The ground and the first excited states of HAlO+ are predicted to be X2Π and A2Σ+ states, respectively. It was predicted that the ground state of HOAl+ is X2Σ+ state. The A2Π state of HOAl+ has unique imaginary frequency. A bent local minimum M1 was found along the 12A″ potential energy surface, and the A2Π state of HOAl+ should be the transition state of the isomerization reactions for M1 ↔ M1. The CASPT2/ANO potential energy curves of isomerization reactions were calculated as a function of HAlO bond angle. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2011
Current status and future potential of somatic mutation testing from circulating free DNA in patients with solid tumours
Authors: Aung K. L. , Board R. E. , Ellison G. , Donald E. , Ward T. , Clack G. , Ranson M. , Hughes A. , Newman W. , Dive C.
Published: January 2011

Genetic alterations can determine the natural history of cancer and its treatment response. With further advances in DNA sequencing technology, multiple novel genetic alterations will be discovered which could be exploited as prognostic, predictive and pharmacodynamic biomarkers in the development and use of cancer therapeutics. As such, the importance in clinical practice of efficient and robust somatic mutation testing in solid tumours cannot be overemphasized in the current era of personalized medicine. However, significant challenges remain regarding the testing of genetic biomarkers in clinical practice. Reliance on archived formalin fixed, paraffin embedded tumour, obtained from diagnostic biopsies, for testing somatic genetic alterations could restrict the scientific community in asking relevant questions about a patient’s cancer biology. Problems inherent with using formalin fixed, archival tissue are well recognized and difficult to resolve. It could be argued that to achieve rapid and efficient incorporation of genetic biomarkers into clinical practice, somatic mutation testing in cancer patients should be simpler, less invasive using a readily available clinical sample, whilst maintaining robustness and reproducibility. In this regard, use of circulating free DNA (cfDNA) from plasma or serum as an alternative and/or additional source of DNA to test cancer specific genetic alterations is an attractive proposition. In light of encouraging results from recent studies, this mini review will discuss the current role and future potential of somatic mutation testing from circulating or cell free DNA derived from the blood of patients with solid tumours.
Genetic Analysis of Oil Content and Fatty Acid Composition in Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.)
Authors: Golkar P. , Arzani A. , Rezaei A. M.
Published: January 2011

The F1 and F2 progenies of eight‐parent diallel crosses were used to investigate the mode of inheritance of fatty acids, oil, and protein in safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) seeds. The results indicated significant differences among the parents for general (GCA) and specific combining ability (SCA). Relatively high narrow‐sense heritability was estimated for fatty acids including linoleic (0.84), oleic (0.77), palmitic (0.61), and stearic (0.6) acids. The high narrow‐sense heritability and the high ratio of GCA/SCA mean squares for all the fatty acids investigated indicate the important role of additive gene action in controlling these traits. In our experiment, however, low narrow‐sense heritability was obtained for oil (0.37) and protein (0.28) contents. Furthermore, the estimates of genetic variance components proposed the importance of non‐additive genetic effects that contribute to variation in oil and protein content. The overall results indicated that K21 × Mex.22‐191 cross could be employed for the production of high oil yielding and high oleic acid safflower lines in breeding programs.
Pelvi-perineal flap reconstruction: normal imaging appearances and post-operative complications on cross-sectional imaging
Authors: Griffin Nyree , Rabouhans Jeremy , Grant Lee A. , Ng Roy L. H. , Ross David , Roblin Paul , George Mark L.
Published: February 2011

Radical pelvic surgery is often required in patients with advanced, persistent or recurrent gynaecological and anorectal malignancies. In the last decade, pedicled flap reconstructions have been increasingly used for pelvic floor and neovaginal reconstruction, introducing well-vascularised non-irradiated tissue into the wound cavity and hence reducing wound complications. The aim of this pictorial review is to describe the normal post-operative cross-sectional imaging appearances of the most commonly used pelvi-perineal flap reconstructions and to illustrate the complications that may arise at the flap donor and recipient sites.
Differential central pain processing following repetitive intramuscular proton/prostaglandin E2 injections in female fibromyalgia patients and healthy controls
Authors: Diersl Martin , Schleyl Marcus T. , Rancel Mariela , Yilmazl Pinar , Lauerl Lydia , Rukwiedl Roman , Schmelzl Martin , Florl Herta
Published: January 2011

Background: While the etiology of fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) remains unclear, it is assumed that both peripheral and central components are involved.

Aims/methods: To investigate central activation patterns following chemically‐induced muscle pain we repetitively injected protons (low pH) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in isotonic solution into the left extensor carpi radialis brevis muscle of female FMS patients and female healthy control subjects (HC). The injection of protons/PGE2 has the advantage that it is not prone to tachyphylaxis compared to capsaicin and hypotonic saline solution. During the repetitive injections continuous pain ratings were recorded and functional magnetic resonance imaging measurements were conducted.

Results: Injection of protons/PGE2 led to activation of the anterior and medial cingulate cortices, contralateral primary sensory cortex, bilateral insula and thalamus, left basal ganglia, left orbitofrontal cortex and the cerebellum in FMS patients. In HC, activations were found only in the anterior, medial, and posterior cingulate cortices, and the primary somatosensory cortex. The contrast between the groups revealed significantly stronger activation for FMS patients in the left anterior insula. Peak pain ratings were comparable between HC and FMS patients, but pain duration (sustained pain) was prolonged in FM.

Conclusion: Repetitive proton/PGE2‐induced excitation of muscle tissue led to a more prolonged perception of pain and more wide‐spread activation in pain‐related brain areas in FMS, especially in the left (ipsilateral) insula, whereas acute protons/PGE2‐induced pain processing was similar in the two groups. These data provide further evidence for enhanced central pain processing in FMS patients.
Erythropoietin for neonatal brain injury: opportunity and challenge
Authors: Xiong Tao , Qu Yi , Mu Dezhi , Ferriero Donna
Published: January 2011

Neonatal brain injury, caused by perinatal hypoxia‐ischemia and extreme prematurity, remains a great challenge for prevention and treatment. There is no effective treatment for term hypoxic‐ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) except hypothermia which by itself does not afford complete neuroprotection. Erythropoietin (EPO), a pleiotropic cytokine, has neuroprotective effects in a series of neonatal experimental models and recent clinical trials of HIE. However, the mechanisms, dosing, and the toxicity of EPO in these settings are inconsistently reported. This review will focus on the possible mechanisms, recent clinical advances and potential complications of EPO used in research and the clinic. In addition, optimal dose and administrative routes of EPO, and novel EPO mimetics will be discussed.
What drives financial performance–resource efficiency or resource slack?
Authors: Modi Sachin B. , Mishra Saurabh
Published: January 2011

Extant research in operations management has revealed divergent insights into the value potential of resource efficiency. While one view relates efficiency with good operations management and asserts that slack resources are a form of waste that should be minimized, the other view suggests that limited resource slack can impose heavy costs on firms by making them brittle. In this research, the authors build on these views to investigate the relationship of inventory, production, and marketing resource efficiency of firms with three metrics of financial performance (i.e., Stock‐Returns, Tobin's Q, and Returns‐on‐Assets). The authors evaluate the theoretical framework using secondary information on all U.S. based publicly‐owned manufacturing firms across the 16‐year time period of 1991–2006. Analysis utilizing a mixed‐model approach reveals that a focus on resource efficiency is positively associated with firm financial performance. However, findings also support the arguments favoring slack, indicating that the financial gains from resource efficiency exhibit diminishing returns.
Solitary intradural extramedullary metastasis of renal cell carcinoma to the conus medullaris
Authors: Lin Tzu‐Kang , Chen Shu‐Mei , Jung Shih‐Ming
Published: January 2011

We report the case of a 68‐year‐old man with a 6‐year history of renal cell carcinoma (RCC), who presented with severe low backache and paraparesis for a month before admission. In addition, he experienced urinary retention for 2 weeks. A spinal magnetic resonance imaging scan revealed the presence of an intradural extramedullary solitary mass at the conus medullaris. We performed a laminectomy and completely excised the tumor. The histopathological findings were suggestive of spinal metastasis of RCC. After the operation, the patient did not complain of backache and urinary retention, and paraparesis improved significantly. Spinal metastases of RCC are usually extradurally located. Intradural metastases of RCC are rare. Thus far, only six cases of RCC metastasizing to the cauda equina have been reported; however, RCC metastasis to the conus medullaris has not yet been reported. Conus medullaris lesions may cause symmetrical motor and sensory deficits accompanied by early autonomic system impairment. Surgery is the treatment of choice in cases of resectable RCC metastases, especially in cases of solitary metastasis.
An 1800-yr record of decadal-scale hydroclimatic variability in the upper Arkansas River basin from bristlecone pine
Authors: Woodhouse Connie A. , Pederson Gregory T. , Gray Stephen T.
Published: January 2011

Bristlecone pine trees are exceptionally long-lived, and with the incorporation of remnant material have been used to construct multi-millennial length ring–width chronologies. These chronologies can provide valuable information about past temperature and moisture variability. In this study, we outline a method to build a moisture-sensitive bristlecone chronology and assess the robustness and consistency of this sensitivity over the past 1200 yr using new reconstructions of Arkansas River flow (AD 1275–2002 and 1577–2002) and the summer Palmer Drought Sensitivity Index. The chronology, a composite built from parts of three collections in the central Rocky Mountains, is a proxy for decadal-scale moisture variability for the past 18 centuries. Since the sample size is small in some portions of the time series, the chronology should be considered preliminary; the timing and duration of drought events are likely the most robust characteristics. This chronology suggests that the region experienced increased aridity during the medieval period, as did much of western North America, but that the timing and duration of drought episodes within this period were somewhat different from those in other western locations, such as the upper Colorado River basin.
Monsoon variability and chemical weathering during the late Pleistocene in the Goriganga basin, higher central Himalaya, India
Authors: Beukema Steven P. , Krishnamurthy R.V. , Juyal N. , Basavaiah N. , Singhvi A.K.
Published: January 2011

Stable isotope analysis along with radiocarbon and luminescence dating of late Pleistocene lacustrine deposits at Burfu in the higher central Himalaya are used to interpret hydrologic changes in the lake basin. From 15.5 ka to ~ 14.5 ka the Burfu lake was largely fed by melting glaciers. A warming event at 14.5 ka suggests an enhanced monsoon and increased carbonate weathering. From ~ 13.5 ka to ~ 12.5 ka the isotopic data suggest large-amplitude climate variability. Following this, the isotope data suggest a short-lived, abrupt cooling event, comprising a ~ 300-yr intense cool period followed by a ~ 500-yr interval of moderate climate. A shift in isotope values at ~ 11.3 ka may signify a strengthening monsoon in this region. The inferred climatic excursions appear to be correlative, at least qualitatively, with global climatic events, and perhaps the Burfu lake sequence provides regional evidence of globally recorded excursions. This study also suggests a potential use of radiocarbon ages in specific environments as a paleoenvironmental proxy.
Integrating molecular and morphological approaches for characterizing parasite cryptic species: implications for parasitology
Authors: NADLER STEVEN A. , DE LEÓN GERARDO PÉREZ-PONCE
Published: February 2011

Herein we review theoretical and methodological considerations important for finding and delimiting cryptic species of parasites (species that are difficult to recognize using traditional systematic methods). Applications of molecular data in empirical investigations of cryptic species are discussed from an historical perspective, and we evaluate advantages and disadvantages of approaches that have been used to date. Developments concerning the theory and practice of species delimitation are emphasized because theory is critical to interpretation of data. The advantages and disadvantages of different molecular methodologies, including the number and kind of loci, are discussed relative to tree-based approaches for detecting and delimiting cryptic species. We conclude by discussing some implications that cryptic species have for research programmes in parasitology, emphasizing that careful attention to the theory and operational practices involved in finding, delimiting, and describing new species (including cryptic species) is essential, not only for fully characterizing parasite biodiversity and broader aspects of comparative biology such as systematics, evolution, ecology and biogeography, but to applied research efforts that strive to improve development and understanding of epidemiology, diagnostics, control and potential eradication of parasitic diseases.
Environmental mastery and depression in older adults in residential care
Authors: KNIGHT TESS , DAVISON TANYA ELLEN , MCCABE MARITA PATRICIA , MELLOR DAVID
Published: February 2011

This study investigated the association between environmental mastery and depression in a sample of 96 older adults (aged 64–98 years) in residential care. The participants completed a scale that assessed depression along with measures for risk factors for depression such as functional capacity, self-evaluated physical health, bereavement experiences and environmental mastery. The results showed that 49 per cent of the variance in participants' scores in depression could be attributed to their self-reported level of environmental mastery. Given the complexity of depression and the likelihood of reduced environmental mastery among older adults in residential care, the construct was further assessed as a mediating variable between the risk factors and depression. With environmental mastery taken as such, the explained variance in depression increased to 56 per cent. It was concluded that environmental mastery may be one of the more important factors affecting the mental health of older adults living in residential care and that strategies for increasing the residents' environmental mastery are important to their psychological wellbeing. The discussion notes that among the questions needing further investigation are whether older adults who experience high environmental mastery make the transition from community living to residential nursing home care more successfully than others, and whether perceived mastery diminishes over time or occurs at the point of transition from community independent living to dependent supported living.
Das Kognitive Inventar für Borderline-Persönlichkeitsstörung (KIB)
Authors: Braakmann Diana , Philipp Alexis , Gelo Omar , Beisel Sylvia , Hüppe Michael , Sipos Valerija , Schweiger Ulrich
Published: January 2011

Zusammenfassung. Theoretischer Hintergrund: Das Kognitive Inventar der Borderline-Persönlichkeitsstörung (KIB) wurde zur Messung von störungstypischen Überzeugungen sowie assoziierten behavioralen und emotionalen Symptomen entwickelt. Fragestellung: Die psychometrischen Kennwerte des KIB wurden untersucht und ergänzen die Erkenntnisse einer Pilotstudie. Methode: Die Reliabilität, die faktorielle, konvergente, divergente und differenzielle Validität sowie die Änderungssensitivität wurden anhand von zwei klinischen (Borderline-Persönlichkeitsstörung und Achse I-Störungen; n = 150) und einer nicht-klinischen Stichprobe (n = 70) untersucht. Ergebnisse: Die Ergebnisse zeigen eine hohe Reliabilität, eine hohe konvergente Validität und eine zufriedenstellende divergente Validität. Die differenzielle Validität ist als gut und die Änderungssensitivität als zufriedenstellend zu bewerten. Schlussfolgerungen: Das KIB ermöglicht eine reliable und valide Erfassung störungstypischer Regeln und Einstellungen bei BPS. Seine Besonderheit liegt in der Berücksichtigung subjektiver Funktionen selbstschädigender Verhaltensweisen.
Die Beobachtungsskala „Therapie-relevante interpersonelle Verhaltensweisen” (TRIB) in der Auswahl von Teilnehmern der Psychotherapieausbildung
Authors: Eversmann Julia , Schöttke Henning , Wiedl Karl H. , Rogner Josef
Published: January 2011

Zusammenfassung. Fragestellung: Auswahlverfahren besitzen an privaten wie an universitären Einrichtungen zur Ausbildung von Psychotherapeuten eine langjährige Tradition, obwohl für diese Verfahren keine Überprüfung der diagnostischen Validität vorliegt. Das Ziel dieser Untersuchung ist die psychometrische Überprüfung und Validierung einer Beobachtungsskala, die im Rahmen eines Auswahlverfahrens eingesetzt wird und auf die Erfassung der therapierelevanten interpersonalen Kompetenz der Ausbildungsteilnehmer abzielt. Methode: Mithilfe einer Skala von 9 Items wurden n = 82 Auswahlteilnehmer im Rahmen von Gruppensituationen eingeschätzt. Die Skala wurde psychometrisch überprüft und nach 5 Jahren anhand von mehreren Erfolgskriterien bei n = 20 Teilnehmern eines Ausbildungsjahrgangs validiert. Ergebnisse: Die psychometrische Überprüfung ergab eine eindimensionale Struktur der neun Items (77,5% Varianzaufklärung) mit einer internen Konsistenz von α = 0.96. Die gefundenen Zusammenhänge zwischen der Beobachtungsskala und dem eingesetzten Spektrum von Eignungskriterien liegen bei r = 0.5. Inhaltlich zeigte sich, dass sich diejenigen Ausbildungsteilnehmer, die bereits im Auswahlverfahren im Sinne einer spezifischen interpersonalen Kompetenz als weniger geeignet eingeschätzt wurden, sich im Verlaufe der Ausbildung weniger kooperativ in Verwaltungsangelegenheiten zeigten sowie zum Abschluss ihrer Ausbildung weniger reguläre Therapiebeendigungen, eine niedrigere Diagnostikcompliance und einen niedrigeren durchschnittlichen Therapieerfolg aufwiesen. Diskussion: Angesichts des 5-jährigen Prognosezeitraums sind die gefundenen Korrelationen als sehr gut zu bewerten. Die Frage, ob es sich bei der erfassten interpersonalen Kompetenz um spezifische therapierelevante oder um eine allgemeine Interaktionskompetenz handelt, gilt es in zukünftigen Arbeiten zu prüfen.
Vorschläge zur Evaluation regulärer Psychotherapien an Hochschulambulanzen im Sinne der Phase-IV-Therapieforschung
Authors: Hiller Wolfgang , Schindler Amrei , Andor Tanja , Rist Fred
Published: January 2011

Zusammenfassung. Durch den Aufbau psychotherapeutischer Hochschulambulanzen an Universitätsinstituten ist in den letzten Jahren ein enormes Potenzial für die naturalistische Phase-IV-Therapieforschung entstanden. Viele Ambulanzen haben ein System zur kontinuierlichen Evaluation der Behandlungen eingeführt. Das methodische Vorgehen dabei ist jedoch heterogen und erscheint mehr von den lokalen Möglichkeiten als von übergeordneten wissenschaftlichen Überlegungen bestimmt. Dies betrifft die Organisation der Datenerhebung, die Definition des „Produkts Psychotherapie” sowie die Auswertung und Präsentation der Daten. Ein Vergleich zwischen den Ambulanzen und die Zusammenführung von Datensätzen zu ambulanzübergreifenden Analysen ist dadurch erschwert. In diesem Artikel wird daher ein Katalog von Methoden und Vorgehensweisen vorgeschlagen, die aufgrund mehrjähriger Erfahrungen an den Hochschulambulanzen Mainz und Münster entwickelt worden sind. Ziel ist ein möglichst hoher Qualitätsstandard für die Zusammenstellung von Stichproben und die Datenauswertung, der sich an den internationalen Standards randomisiert-kontrollierter Therapiestudien (RCTs) orientiert.
Behandlungsverlauf bei depressiven Störungen
Authors: Schär Marcel , Bodenmann Guy
Published: January 2011

Zusammenfassung. Theoretischer Hintergrund: Derzeit ist unklar, auf welche Faktoren frühe Symptomveränderungen während einer Psychotherapie zurückzuführen sind. Fragestellung: Die vorliegende Studie untersucht verschiedene intrapsychische und interpersonelle Prädiktoren des Patienten und seines Partners auf den Symptomverlauf während einer Depressionsbehandlung. Methode: Die Analysen wurden mittels hierarchisch-linearen Modellen durchgeführt und basieren auf Daten von 60 Paaren, die im Rahmen einer kontrolliert-randomisierten Studie Psychotherapie in Anspruch nahmen. Resultate: Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass bei den intrapsychischen Variablen vor allem Depressionsdauer, individuelles Coping und allgemeine Lebenszufriedenheit und bei den interpersonellen Variablen die soziale Unterstützung und das negative Verhalten im Konfliktgespräch den Symptomverlauf während der Therapie vorhersagen können. Das Hinzufügen von interpersonellen zu den intrapsychischen Variablen erhöht die Varianzaufklärung von 30% auf 50%. Schlussfolgerung: Interpersonelle Probleme sollten vermehrt in die Therapieplanung einbezogen werden, da sie einen wichtigen Einfluss auf den Symptomverlauf haben, jedoch bisher oft vernachlässigt wurden.
Entwicklung und Evaluation eines deutschsprachigen Instruments zur Erfassung von Cannabis-Craving (CCS-7)
Authors: Schnell Thomas , Münchenhagen Lena , Tersudi Kortessa , Daumann Jörg , Gouzoulis-Mayfrank Euphrosyne
Published: January 2011

Zusammenfassung. Theoretischer Hintergrund: Suchtdruck („Craving”) nach Cannabis kann mit einem englischsprachigen Instrument (MCQ) auf vier Dimensionen abgebildet werden. Fragestellung: Ziel war die Entwicklung eines deutschsprachigen Instruments zur Erfassung von Cannabis-Craving sowie die Untersuchung der Zusammenhänge von Craving und demografischen bzw. konsumbezogenen Daten. Methode: Die Kurzversion des MCQ wurde ins Deutsche übersetzt und bei drei Stichproben von Cannabiskonsumenten evaluiert. Demografische Daten und Konsummuster wurden erfasst, sowie die subjektive Einschätzung der Konsumenten ihres aktuellen Suchtdrucks. Ergebnisse: Die Faktorenstruktur des MCQ ließ sich nicht replizieren; es bildeten sich zwei Faktoren, die inhaltlich den Konzepten des Reward- (Belohnungs-) und Relief (Erleichterungs-)-Craving entsprechen. Ein positiver Zusammenhang zwischen Konsumhäufigkeit und Relief-Craving sowie ein negativer Zusammenhang zwischen aktueller Abstinenzzeit und Reward-Craving zeigte sich. Beide Dimensionen korrelierten mit der subjektiven Einschätzung des Craving. Schlussfolgerungen: Cannabis-Craving kann als Konstrukt mit mindestens zwei Dimensionen betrachtet werden. Diese können mit dem CCS-7 zuverlässig erfasst werden.
On the mode-coupling treatment of collective density fluctuations for quantum liquids: Para-hydrogen and normal liquid helium
Authors: Kletenik-Edelman Orly , Reichman David R. , Rabani Eran
Published: January 2011

A novel quantum mode coupling theory combined with a kinetic approach is developed for the description of collective density fluctuations in quantum liquids characterized by Boltzmann statistics. Three mode-coupling approximations are presented and applied to study the dynamic response of para-hydrogen near the triple point and normal liquid helium above the λ-transition. The theory is compared with experimental results and to the exact imaginary time data generated by path integral Monte Carlo simulations. While for liquid para-hydrogen the combination of kinetic and quantum mode-coupling theory provides semi-quantitative results for both short and long time dynamics, it fails for normal liquid helium. A discussion of this failure based on the ideal gas limit is presented.
Pair structure of the hard-sphere Yukawa fluid: An improved analytic method versus simulations, Rogers-Young scheme, and experiment
Authors: Heinen Marco , Holmqvist Peter , Banchio Adolfo J. , Nägele Gerhard
Published: January 2011

We present a comprehensive study of the equilibrium pair structure in fluids of nonoverlapping spheres interacting by a repulsive Yukawa-like pair potential, with special focus on suspensions of charged colloidal particles. The accuracy of several integral equation schemes for the static structure factor, S(q), and radial distribution function, g(r), is investigated in comparison to computer simulation results and static light scattering data on charge-stabilized silica spheres. In particular, we show that an improved version of the so-called penetrating-background corrected rescaled mean spherical approximation (PB-RMSA) by Snook and Hayter [Langmuir 8, 2880 (1992)], referred to as the modified PB-RMSA (MPB-RMSA), gives pair structure functions which are in general in very good agreement with Monte Carlo simulations and results from the accurate but nonanalytical and therefore computationally more expensive Rogers-Young integral equation scheme. The MPB-RMSA preserves the analytic simplicity of the standard rescaled mean spherical (RMSA) solution. The combination of high accuracy and fast evaluation makes the MPB-RMSA ideally suited for extensive parameter scans and experimental data evaluation, and for providing the static input to dynamic theories. We discuss the results of extensive parameter scans probing the concentration scaling of the pair structure of strongly correlated Yukawa particles, and we determine the liquid-solid coexistence line using the Hansen-Verlet freezing rule.
Inertial and bias effects in the rotational Brownian motion of rodlike molecules in a uniaxial potential
Authors: Kalmykov Yuri P. , Titov Sergey V. , Coffey William T.
Published: January 2011

Inertial effects in the rotational Brownian motion in space of a rigid dipolar rotator (needle) in a uniaxial potential biased by an external field giving rise to asymmetry are treated via the infinite hierarchy of differential-recurrence relations for the statistical moments (orientational correlation functions) obtained by averaging the Euler–Langevin equation over its realizations in phase space. The solutions of this infinite hierarchy for the dipole correlation function and its characteristic times are obtained using matrix continued fractions showing that the model simultaneously predicts both slow overbarrier (or interwell) relaxation at low frequencies accompanied by intermediate frequency Debye relaxation due to fast near-degenerate motion in the wells of the potential (intrawell relaxation) as well as the high frequency resonance (Poley) absorption due to librations of the dipole moments. It is further shown that the escape rate of a Brownian particle from a potential well as extended to the Kramers turnover problem via the depopulation factor yields a close approximation to the longest (overbarrier) relaxation time of the system. For zero and small values of the bias field parameter h, both the dipole moment correlation time and the longest relaxation time have Arrhenius behavior (exponential increase with increasing barrier height). While at values of h in excess of a critical value however far less than that required to achieve nucleation, the Arrhenius behavior of the correlation time disappears.
Dangling bond-induced graphitization process on the (111) surface of diamond nanoparticles
Authors: Li Le-sheng , Zhao Xiang
Published: January 2011

The intrinsic mechanism of graphitization occurring on the (111) surface of nanodiamonds (NDs) during the transformation from NDs into bucky diamonds are explored using density functional theory (DFT) computations in conjunction with density functional based tight-binding simulations. The DFT results indicate that dangling bonds (DBs) on the ND surfaces play an important role in the graphitization process, and the orientation of the DBs on different ND surfaces determines whether there will be a graphitization process or not. Moreover, a criterion is proposed to estimate rupturing of the C-C bonds between different layers on the [111] direction in the NDs and is verified to be applicable to illustrate the phase transformation from sp3 into sp2 bonding structures. The energy contributions of the four-coordinated carbon atoms located at different positions on the (111) surface are exhibited for the first time and discussed in detail to gain a clear picture for the transition from NDs into bucky diamonds. The outcome may provide a deeper understanding on the influence of DBs upon the transformation from sp3 into sp2 bonding structures.
Use of phosphor image plates for measuring intensities in vacuum ultraviolet spectra
Authors: Nave Gillian , Sansonetti Craig J. , Szabo Csilla I. , Curry John J. , Smillie Darren G.
Published: January 2011

We describe the use of phosphor image plates for recording spectra in the vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) and for determining accurate relative and absolute intensities. We investigated the spatial uniformity, noise, linearity of the response to VUV light, fading characteristics, saturation characteristics, reproducibility of the image when scanned multiple times, and long-term stability and lifetime of the plates. We find that the plates have a linear intensity response with a dynamic range of more than 4 orders of magnitude. We also show that they have potential as an absolute detector for VUV radiation.
The art of electrochemical etching for preparing tungsten probes with controllable tip profile and characteristic parameters
Authors: Ju Bing-Feng , Chen Yuan-Liu , Ge Yaozheng
Published: January 2011

Using custom made experimental apparatus, the art of electrochemical etching was systematically studied for fabricating micro/nano tungsten probes with controllable tip profiles of exponential, conical, multidiameter, and calabashlike shapes. The characteristic parameters of probe including length, aspect ratio, and tip apex radius could also be well defined. By combining of static and dynamic etching, the conical-shape probe with length up to several millimeters, controllable tip apex radius, and cone angle could be fabricated. In addition, by continuously lifting the tungsten wire up during the electrochemical etching with different speeds and distances, the multidiameter shape probe could be fabricated. Finally by controlling the anodic flow, the multiple “neck-in” could be realized creating a calabashlike probe. The aspect ratio of probes depends on (i) the effective contact time between the surrounding electrolyte and the wire, (ii) the neck-in position of immersed tungsten wire. Under the optimized etching parameters, tungsten probes with a controllable aspect ratio from 20:1 to 450:1, apex radius less than 20 nm, and cone angle smaller than 3° could be achieved. The technique is well suited for the tungsten probe fabrication with a stabilized stylus contour, ultra-sharp apex radius, and high production reproducibility. The art for preparing microprobes will facilitate the application of such microprobes in diverse fields such as dip-pen nanolithography, scanning probe microscopy, micromachining, and biological cellular studies.