bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Breast cancer surgery‐induced immunomodulation
Authors: Boomsma Martijn F. , Garssen Bert , Slot Edith , Berbee Monique , Berkhof Johannes , Meezenbroek Eltica de Jager , Slieker Walentina , Visser Adriaan , Meijer Sybren , Beelen Robert H.J.
Published: July 2010

Background and objectives

Surgical procedures can cause tumor cells to disseminate into the circulatory system. Although this spread of metastatic cells will be limited by immune activity, immunosuppression tends to be the main effect resulting from surgery. The objective of this study is to assess hormonal and immunological changes induced by breast cancer surgery.

Methods

Endocrine and immune responses to surgery were determined in 27 breast cancer patients. Blood samples were taken at 6 days and 1 day before surgery and 2 hr, 1 day, and 5 days after surgery. Changes in endocrine function, number of leucocytes and their subpopulations, enumerative immune expression, functional activity, and cytokine levels were determined.

Results

Breast cancer surgery induces a pro‐inflammatory response and leucocytosis. Immunosuppression is indicated by decreased HLA‐DR expression, decreased NKCA, and a Th2 response. A delayed Th1 response was also found 5 days after surgery. As no cortisol level change was observed, this hormone can be excluded as the mediator of surgery‐related immunomodulation in breast cancer.

Conclusion

Although breast cancer surgery is classified as minor surgery the surgical procedure produces substantial immunomodulation. J. Surg. Oncol. 2010;102:640–648. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.

This article was published online 30 July 2010. An error in the author affiliations was subsequently identified and has been corrected. This notice is included in online and print versions to indicate that both have been corrected on 18 August 2010.
Effect of the deformation on the stress–corrosion cracking of Al–Zn–Mg–Cu alloys
Authors: Peng G. S. , Chen K. H. , Chen S. Y. , Fang H. C.
Published: July 2010

The effect of deformation on the stress–corrosion cracking (SCC) of Al–Zn–Mg–Cu alloys is studied by slow strain rate technique (SSRT) and bolt‐loaded double cantilever beam (DCB) tests. Results show that with the deformation increasing, the undissolved particles and subgrain size decrease whereas the fraction of recrystallization increases after solution treatment. The susceptibility to SCC by SSRT and DCB tests varies on different deformation amount alloy, in which cause is discussed.
Corrosion assessment and restoration strategies of reinforced concrete buildings of the cultural heritage
Authors: Bertolini L. , Carsana M. , Gastaldi M. , Lollini F. , Redaelli E.
Published: July 2010

Since the beginning of the 20th century, in Italy as in many other countries, reinforced concrete (RC) became one of the most popular construction materials and it was used for buildings, monuments, infrastructures, etc. Several of these structures, although of recent formation, have now been included in the cultural heritage, because of their architectural or social relevance.

As a consequence of the typical urban or rural exposure conditions of these buildings, they often suffer damage due to carbonation‐induced corrosion of reinforcement, such as concrete spalling or cracking or rust stains that may affect the serviceability of structures. Furthermore, chloride‐induced corrosion of reinforcement, may also concern buildings exposed to de‐icing salts or marine environments.

Due to strict requirements related to the preservation of the original materials and texture, the repair of structures that belong to the cultural heritage cannot rely on the conventional repair technique, based on the replacement of carbonated concrete. Therefore, the conservation of RC buildings of the cultural heritage is a challenge, since it requires the development of specific strategies aimed at finding the best compromise between, on one hand, the restoration of structural safety and the prevention of future damage and, on the other hand, the preservation of the original materials and surfaces. This paper analyses the results of inspections carried out on several buildings, built in Italy throughout the 20th century in different micro‐ and macro‐climates, with the aim of showing their peculiarities with regard to steel corrosion and the selection of restorations strategies.
Mildew growth on automotive coatings influencing the results of outdoor weathering
Authors: Wachtendorf V. , Schulz U. , Geburtig A. , Stephan I.
Published: July 2010

As the results of a 14 weeks outdoor exposure of a series of automotive coatings in South Florida, the panels were found to be overgrown with an almost closed layer of mildew. Pinholes remained as permanent surface damage after removing the mildew mycelium. The extent of the damage differed in dependence of the kind of the coating. By tracing the images and profiles of the coating surfaces systematically over all phases of weathering and the subsequent cleaning procedure, a connection between formation of pinholes and mildew growth could be found. Outdoor weathering tests in other regions of Florida as well as in Europe and Australia showed that pinholes caused by mildew attack could also be found in all other locations, but always to a lower extent than in South Florida. The standardised mildew tests EN ISO 846 and MIL‐STD 810F for laboratory exposure failed to reproduce the formation of pinholes.
Pharma Contract Research in India
Authors: Festel Gunter
Published: July 2010

Outsourcing of drug discovery and development activities from pharma companies has been rising in the double‐digit range for many years, driven largely by a need to contain rising R   D costs. With cost savings of 30  to 50 %, India has emerged as an attractive outsourcing destination for Western pharma companies.
In situ reactive compatibilization of polypropylene/epoxidized natural rubber blends by electron induced reactive processing: novel in‐line mixing technology
Authors: Rooj Sandip , Thakur Varun , Gohs Uwe , Wagenknecht Udo , Bhowmick Anil K. , Heinrich Gert
Published: July 2010

Blends of polypropylene (PP) and epoxidized natural rubber (ENR) were prepared by an in‐line electron induced reactive processing technique. The mixing was done in a Brabender mixing chamber coupled with an electron accelerator. The effect of sequence of electron treatment on the compatibilization of non‐polar PP and polar ENR was investigated in the presence of triallyl cyanurate (TAC). Finally, the resulting blends were characterized by different techniques, namely, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), tensile tests, and rheological studies. Generation of phase coupling and chemical compatibilization were observed from FTIR analysis. DMA studies showed enhanced high‐temperature modulus (above the glass transition temperature of both components) followed up by lowering in the tan δ peak. Rheological studies showed increase in modulus at low frequencies. Electron treatment and incorporation of rubber phase into PP showed significant effect on the degree of crystallinity of the blends, which was characterized by DSC study. The results obtained from FTIR, DMA, SEM, rheological studies, and tensile tests strongly affirmed that electron induced reactive processing of PP in presence of TAC before adding of ENR performed the best amongst all samples modified with electrons investigated in this study. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparation of nanoalumina/EPDM composites with good performance in thermal conductivity and mechanical properties
Authors: Wang Zhen‐Hua , Lu Yong‐Lai , Liu Jun , Dang Zhi‐Min , Zhang Li‐Qun , Wang Weimin
Published: July 2010

In this paper, nanoalumina (Al2O3) highly filled ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) composites are prepared, and the mechanical (static and dynamic) properties and thermal conductivity are investigated systemically through various characterization methods. Furthermore, influences of in situ modification (mixing operation assisted by silane at high temperature for a certain time) with the silane‐coupling agent bis‐(3‐triethoxy silylpropyl)‐tetrasulfide (Si69) and stearic acid (SA) pretreatment on the nano‐Al2O3 filled composites are as well investigated. The results indicate that nano‐Al2O3 particles can not only perform well in reinforcing EPDM, but also improve the thermal conductivity significantly. Assisted by in situ modification with Si69, the mechanical properties (especially dynamic mechanical properties) of the nano‐Al2O3 filled composites are improved obviously, without influencing the thermal conductivity. By comparing to the traditional reinforcing fillers, such as carbon black (grade N330) and silica, in situ modified nano‐Al2O3 filled composites exhibit excellent performance in mechanical (static and dynamic) properties as well as better thermal conductivity, especially lower compression heat build‐up and better fatigue resistance. In general, our work indicates that nano‐Al2O3, as the novel thermal conductive reinforcing filler, is suitable to prepare rubber products serving in dynamic conditions, with the longer expected service life. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fire retardant synergisms between nanometric Fe2O3 and aluminum phosphinate in poly(butylene terephthalate)
Authors: Gallo E. , Schartel B. , Braun U. , Russo P. , Acierno D.
Published: July 2010

The pyrolysis and the flame retardancy of poly(butylene terephthalate) (PBT) containing aluminum diethylphosphinate (AlPi) and nanometric Fe2O3 were investigated using thermal analysis, evolved gas analysis (Thermogravimetry‐FTIR), flammability tests (LOI, UL 94), cone calorimeter measurements and chemical analysis of residue (FTIR). AlPi mainly acts as a flame inhibitor in the gas phase, through the release of diethylphosphinic acid. A small amount of Fe2O3 in PBT promotes the formation of a carbonaceous char in the condensed phase. The combination of 5 and 8 wt% AlPi, respectively, with 2 wt% metal oxides achieves V‐0 classification in the UL 94 test thanks to complementary action mechanisms. Using PBT/metal oxide nanocomposites shows a significant increase in the flame retardancy efficiency of AlPi in PBT and thus opens the route to surprisingly sufficient additive contents as low as 7 wt%. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Microencapsulated ammonium polyphosphate with epoxy resin shell: preparation, characterization, and application in EP system
Authors: Liu Lin , Zhang Yanan , Li Lin , Wang Zhengzhou
Published: July 2010

Microencapsulated ammonium polyphosphate with an epoxy resin (EP) shell (MCAPP) was prepared by in situ method, and was characterized by transmission electron microscope (TEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and thermgravimetric analysis (TGA). Compared to ammonium polyphosphate (APP), MCAPP has smaller particle sizes and lower water solubility. The effect of MCAPP on the fire performance of EP was studied by using limiting oxygen index (LOI) and UL‐94 tests. When the same loading levels of APP or MCAPP were added into EP, the LOI and UL‐94 tests show similar results. Tensile, bending, and impact strengths of the EP/APP and EP/MCAPP composites were also evaluated, and the results indicate that MCAPP has much less negative influence on the mechanical properties than APP. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Toxicological Aspects of Long‐Term Treatment of Keratinocytes with ZnO and TiO2 Nanoparticles
Authors: Kocbek Petra , Teskač Karmen , Kreft Mateja E. , Kristl Julijana
Published: July 2010

Sunscreens containing ZnO and TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) are increasingly applied to skin over long time periods to reduce the risk of skin cancer. However, long‐term toxicological studies of NPs are very sparse. The in vitro toxicity of ZnO and TiO2 NPs on keratinocytes over short‐ and long‐term applications is reported. The effects studied are intracellular formation of radicals, alterations in cell morphology, mitochondrial activity, and cell‐cycle distribution. Cellular response depends on the type of NP, concentration, and exposure time. ZnO NPs have more pronounced adverse effects on keratinocytes than TiO2. TiO2 has no effect on cell viability up to 100 μg mL−1, whereas ZnO reduces viability above 15 μg mL−1 after short‐term exposure. Prolonged exposure to ZnO NPs at 10 μg mL−1 results in decreased mitochondrial activity, loss of normal cell morphology, and disturbances in cell‐cycle distribution. From this point of view TiO2 has no harmful effect. More nanotubular intercellular structures are observed in keratinocytes exposed to either type of NP than in untreated cells. This observation may indicate cellular transformation from normal to tumor cells due to NP treatment. Transmission electron microscopy images show NPs in vesicles within the cell cytoplasm, particularly in early and late endosomes and amphisomes. Contrary to insoluble TiO2, partially soluble ZnO stimulates generation of reactive oxygen species to swamp the cell redox defense system thus initiating the death processes, seen also in cell‐cycle distribution and fluorescence imaging. Long‐term exposure to NPs has adverse effects on human keratinocytes in vitro, which indicates a potential health risk.
Micro‐ and Nanopatterning of Functional Organic Monolayers on Oxide‐Free Silicon by Laser‐Induced Photothermal Desorption
Authors: Scheres Luc , Klingebiel Benjamin , Maat Jurjen ter , Giesbers Marcel , de Jong Hans , Hartmann Nils , Zuilhof Han
Published: July 2010

The photothermal laser patterning of functional organic monolayers, prepared on oxide‐free hydrogen‐terminated silicon, and subsequent backfilling of the laser‐written lines with a second organic monolayer that differs in its terminal functionality, is described. Since the thermal monolayer decomposition process is highly nonlinear in the applied laser power density, subwavelength patterning of the organic monolayers is feasible. After photothermal laser patterning of hexadecenyl monolayers, the lines freed up by the laser are backfilled with functional acid fluoride monolayers. Coupling of cysteamine to the acid fluoride groups and subsequent attachment of Au nanoparticles allows easy characterization of the functional lines by atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Depending on the laser power and writing speed, functional lines with widths between 1.1 μm and 250 nm can be created. In addition, trifluoroethyl‐terminated (TFE) monolayers are also patterned. Subsequently, the decomposed lines are backfilled with a nonfunctional hexadecenyl monolayer, the TFE stripes are converted into thiol stripes, and then finally covered with Au nanoparticles. By reducing the lateral distance between the laser lines, Au‐nanoparticle stripes with widths close to 100 nm are obtained. Finally, in view of the great potential of this type of monolayer in the field of biosensing, the ease of fabricating biofunctional patterns is demonstrated by covalent binding of fluorescently labeled oligo‐DNA to acid‐fluoride‐backfilled laser lines, which—as shown by fluorescence microscopy—is accessible for hybridization.
Facile Synthesis of Bimetallic Ag/Ni Core/Sheath Nanowires and Their Magnetic and Electrical Properties
Authors: McKiernan Maureen , Zeng Jie , Ferdous Sunzida , Verhaverbeke Steven , Leschkies Kurtis S. , Gouk Roman , Lazik Christopher , Jin Miao , Briseno Alejandro L. , Xia Younan
Published: July 2010

This paper describes a facile method for coating Ag nanowires with uniform, ferromagnetic sheaths made of polycrystalline Ni. A typical sample of these core/sheath nanowires had a saturation magnetization around 33 emu g−1. We also demonstrated the use of this magnetic property to align the nanowires by simply placing a suspension of the nanowires on a substrate in a magnetic field and allowing the solvent to evaporate. The electrical conductivity of these core/sheath nanowires (2 × 103 S cm−1) was two orders of magnitude lower than that of bulk Ag (6.3 × 105 S cm−1) and Ni (1.4 × 105 S cm−1). This is likely caused by the transfer of electrons from the Ag core to the Ni sheath due to the difference in work function between the two metals. The electrons are expected to experience an increased resistance due to spin‐dependent scattering caused by the randomized magnetic domains in the polycrystalline, ferromagnetic Ni sheath. Studies on the structural changes to the Ni coating over time under different storage conditions show that storage of the nanowires on a substrate under ambient conditions leads to very little Ni oxidation after 6 months. These Ag/Ni core/sheath nanowires show promise in areas such as electronics, spintronics, and displays.
CD133+ cells from human umbilical cord blood reduce cortical damage and promote axonal growth in neonatal rat organ co‐cultures exposed to hypoxia
Authors: Tanaka Norifumi , Kamei Naosuke , Nakamae Toshio , Yamamoto Risako , Ishikawa Masakazu , Fujiwara Hisaya , Miyoshi Hiroshi , Asahara Takayuki , Ochi Mitsuo , Kudo Yoshiki
Published: July 2010

To evaluate the effect of CD133+ cells (endothelial progenitor cells) on the hypoxia‐induced suppression of axonal growth of cortical neurons and the destruction of blood vessels (endothelial cells), we used anterograde axonal tracing and immunofluorescence in organ co‐cultures of the cortex and the spinal cord from 3‐day‐old neonatal rats. CD133+ cells prepared from human umbilical cord blood were added to the organ co‐cultures after hypoxic insult, and axonal growth, vascular damage and apoptosis were evaluated. Anterograde axonal tracing with 1,1′‐dioctadecyl‐3,3,3′,3′‐tetramethylindocarbocyanine perchlorate was used to analyze axonal projections from the cortex to the spinal cord. Immunolabeling co‐cultured tissues of the cortex and the spinal cord were used to investigate the effect of CD133+ cells on the survival of blood vessels and apoptosis in the brain cortex. Hypoxia remarkably suppressed axonal growth in organ co‐cultures of the cortex and the spinal cord, and this suppression was significantly restored by the addition of CD133+ cells. CD133+ cells also reduced the hypoxia‐induced destruction of the cortical blood vessels and apoptosis. CD133+ cells had protective effects on hypoxia‐induced injury of neurons and blood vessels of the brain cortex in vitro. These results suggest that CD133+ cell transplantation may be a possible therapeutic intervention for perinatal hypoxia‐induced brain injury.
Clinical Ambulatory Anesthesia
Authors: Raeder Johan
Published: July 2010

Ambulatory care can be a challenging setting in which to provide anesthesia – not all patients are suitable for rapid discharge post-operatively and opinions differ as to which types of surgery should be performed as day cases. This comprehensive guide delivers up-to-date, evidence-based advice on how to provide optimal anesthesia care for ambulatory surgery. Written by a leading clinical anesthesiologist, it provides clear guidance about how to handle particular patients in particular situations. The evidence and scientific knowledge for each issue are presented with reference to major studies and review papers, followed by practical advice based on the author's continuous clinical and scientific experience over 30 years. Topics include planning, equipping and staffing ambulatory units, pharmacology, basic concepts of ambulatory care, pre- and post-operative issues and current controversies. Clinical Ambulatory Anesthesia is essential reading for the clinical, postgraduate anesthesiologist as well as nurse anesthetists involved with ambulatory care.
Coordination in Syntax
Authors: Zhang Niina Ning
Published: July 2010

Coordination in syntax is an important part of the analysis of sentence structure. Niina Ning Zhang addresses the issues raised by coordinate pairings and the implications of these structures, looking in particular at examples within English and Chinese. The volume covers the major questions regarding coordinates in syntax, providing a fresh perspective to arguments raised within previous literature. She explains how such coordinate complexes are structured, how some coordinators can be combined in parts of speech, the fixed nature of some of these pairings and what changes exist between the coordinate and non-coordinate constructions. The theories raised are backed up by a rich variety of examples as well as providing a cross-linguistic perspective, contextualising these ideas within current syntactic research.
Recovery of the Vulnerable Pemba flying foxPteropus voeltzkowi: population and conservation status
Authors: Robinson Janine E. , Bell Diana J. , Saleh Fatma M. , Suleiman Ahmed A. , Barr Iain
Published: July 2010

Flying foxes of the genusPteropusare predominantly island taxa, with high levels of endemism, and face high risks of extinction. Their ecological and economic importance in island ecosystems has been widely recognized. Here we investigate the population size and conservation status of the VulnerablePteropus voeltzkowi, endemic to the western Indian Ocean island of Pemba, Tanzania. Direct counts and patch counts were used to determine abundance of flying foxes at roost sites, supplemented with evening dispersal counts, which were conducted to test accuracy of counting techniques under varying conditions of visibility. We estimate that the population size is now a minimum of 18,200–22,100, thus validating reports of annual increases by in-country monitoring teams since the last documented population survey of 4,600–5,500 bats in 1995. Taking into account differences in the counting methodologies for roosting bats we estimate that the population size could be as high as 35,600 individuals. We identified 44 occupied roosting sites, with just four of these supporting up to 87% of the population. Roost disturbance represents a continuing threat to this species and was found to influence roost occupancy and colony size. The implications of the population increase for the local human community are discussed and recommendations provided for continued monitoring and future management of this species on Pemba Island.
Getting ready for REDD+ in Tanzania: a case study of progress and challenges
Authors: Burgess Neil D. , Bahane Bruno , Clairs Tim , Danielsen Finn , Dalsgaard Søren , Funder Mikkel , Hagelberg Niklas , Harrison Paul , Haule Christognus , Kabalimu Kekilia , Kilahama Felician , Kilawe Edward , Lewis Simon L. , Lovett Jon C. , Lyatuu Gertrude , Marshall Andrew R. , Meshack Charles , Miles Lera , Milledge Simon A.H. , Munishi Pantaleo K.T. , Nashanda Evarist , Shirima Deo , Swetnam Ruth D. , Willcock Simon , Williams Andrew , Zahabu Eliakim
Published: July 2010

The proposed mechanism for Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Degradation (REDD+) offers significant potential for conserving forests to reduce negative impacts of climate change. Tanzania is one of nine pilot countries for the United Nations REDD Programme, receives significant funding from the Norwegian, Finnish and German governments and is a participant in the World Bank’s Forest Carbon Partnership Facility. In combination, these interventions aim to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, provide an income to rural communities and conserve biodiversity. The establishment of the UN-REDD Programme in Tanzania illustrates real-world challenges in a developing country. These include currently inadequate baseline forestry data sets (needed to calculate reference emission levels), inadequate government capacity and insufficient experience of implementing REDD+-type measures at operational levels. Additionally, for REDD+ to succeed, current users of forest resources must adopt new practices, including the equitable sharing of benefits that accrue from REDD+ implementation. These challenges are being addressed by combined donor support to implement a national forest inventory, remote sensing of forest cover, enhanced capacity for measuring, reporting and verification, and pilot projects to test REDD+ implementation linked to the existing Participatory Forest Management Programme. Our conclusion is that even in a country with considerable donor support, progressive forest policies, laws and regulations, an extensive network of managed forests and increasingly developed locally-based forest management approaches, implementing REDD+ presents many challenges. These are being met by coordinated, genuine partnerships between government, non-government and community-based agencies.
Over-volted breakdown and recovery of short nitrogen spark gaps
Authors: Cai Xinjing , Zou Xiaobin , Wang Xinxin , Wang Liming , Guan Zhicheng , Jiang Weihua
Published: July 2010

The characteristic of the over-volted breakdown and the gaseous recovery in short nitrogen gaps was experimentally studied. It was found that the breakdown voltage of the gap changes from shot to shot even with the same experimental conditions and obeys Gaussian distribution. The over-volted factor is reduced with an increasing pressure. With a 2.7-mm gap the over-volted factors are 4.53 for 0.1 MPa pressure and 1.74 for 0.4 MPa. The over-volted breakdown voltage depends individually on the gap spacing d and the gas pressure p, rather than on the product of pd. An empirical formula of the breakdown voltage as a function of p and d was derived. The time-dependent recovery of the breakdown voltage, RVb, was obtained using a two-pulse technique. The second breakdown voltage also obeys Gaussian distribution, but it is normally with a smaller standard deviation especially when the interpulse spacing of Δt is relatively short. As a whole, RVb rises with the increase of Δt. However, an intermediate plateau is always observed and it starts when the second breakdown voltage is a little bit higher than the static breakdown voltage of the gap. The first rising edge of the RVb curve corresponds to the recovery of the electro-neutrality and the density. The intermediate plateau and the following rising edge take the spark gap much longer time to recover. The processes governing these two latter phases are as yet not fully clear. It is attributed to the delayed recombination of the residual nitrogen atoms on the cathode to produce the initial electrons for the second breakdown. An increase in pressure has resulted in an upward shift of the intermediate plateau and a shortening in the recovery time of the gaps. The second spark generally does not follow the path of the first spark.
Seasonal variation in soil and plant water potentials in a Bolivian tropical moist and dry forest
Authors: Markesteijn Lars , Iraipi José , Bongers Frans , Poorter Lourens
Published: July 2010

We determined seasonal variation in soil matric potentials (ψsoil) along a topographical gradient and with soil depth in a Bolivian tropical dry (1160 mm y−1 rain) and moist forest (1580 mm y−1). In each forest we analysed the effect of drought on predawn leaf water potentials (ψpd) and drought response (midday leaf water potential at a standardized ψpd of −0.98 MPa; ψmd) of saplings of three tree species, varying in shade-tolerance and leaf phenology. ψsoil changed during the dry season and most extreme in the dry forest. Crests were drier than slopes and valleys. Dry-forest top soil was drier than deep soil in the dry season, the inverse was found in the wet season. In the moist forest the drought-deciduous species, Sweetia fruticosa, occupied dry sites. In the dry forest the short-lived pioneer, Solanum riparium, occupied wet sites and the shade-tolerant species, Acosmium cardenasii drier sites. Moist-forest species had similar drought response. The dry-forest pioneer showed a larger drought response than the other two species. Heterogeneity in soil water availability and interspecific differences in moisture requirements and drought response suggest great potential for niche differentiation. Species may coexist at different topographical locations, by extracting water from different soil layers and/or by doing so at different moments in time.
A thermophile in the shade: light-directed nest relocation in the Costa Rican antEctatomma ruidum
Authors: McGlynn Terrence P. , Dunn Toyin , Wayman Ellen , Romero Andrea
Published: July 2010

In tropical climates, nest movements by mature ant colonies are probably widespread but the phenomenon of nest relocation is poorly described (McGlynn 2007, McGlynnet al. 2004, Smallwood 1982a). For species that nest in soil, the costs and risks associated with excavating and establishing new nests are consequential, and it is assumed that relocation occurs when the costs are offset by a more advantageous nest location (Avargues-Weber & Monnin 2009, Banschbach & Herbers 1999). Nest movements may occur to areas with greater availability of food resources or to a more favourable microclimate. Here we provide the first report of nest relocation in one of the most widespread and well described ant species in the Neotropics,Ectatomma ruidum(Roger), and we perform a manipulative experiment to test whether food availability or light environment influence nest movement.
The Abyei Award: Fitting a Diplomatic Square Peg into a Legal Round Hole
Authors: BÖCKENFÖRDE MARKUS
Published: July 2010

On 22 July 2009 a Tribunal of five leading international lawyers rendered their award at the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA), thereby redrawing the boundaries of Abyei, a small patch of land in the centre of Sudan and source of violent conflict throughout recent years. The arbitration was initiated by the two signatories of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) that in 2005 brought an end to the longest civil war in Africa. Both parties, the government of Sudan and the Sudan People's Liberation Army/Movement, expressed satisfaction with the award, which conceivably saved the CPA from potential collapse. This article examines the legal oddities which accompanied the settlement of the dispute over the Abyei area. It analyses both the referral of the dispute to the PCA through the lens of the Sudanese Constitution and the legal ambiguities of the award itself.
Provisional Measures of the International Court of Justice in Armed Conflict Situations
Authors: ZYBERI GENTIAN
Published: July 2010

This article critically assesses the role of provisional measures indicated by the International Court of Justice in protecting populations during armed conflict situations and the legal consequences attached to the violation of such measures. A number of relevant cases, including the most recent Georgia v. Russia case, are dealt with. Provisional measures aimed at protecting populations affected by armed conflict have been increasingly requested in the last two decades by states finding themselves at a military disadvantage. Questions remain, however, with regard to the suitability of these incidental proceedings to deal with major political controversies resulting in armed conflict between states. That notwithstanding, it is submitted that although compliance with such orders of the Court remains unsatisfactory, in the long term provisional measures can eventually strengthen state compliance with commonly agreed international human rights and humanitarian law standards.
Victims' Rights and the International Criminal Court: Perceptions within the Court Regarding the Victims’ Right to Participate
Authors: WEMMERS JO-ANNE
Published: July 2010

Based on interviews with 23 key figures at the International Criminal Court, this study represents an effort to go beyond the text of the Rome Statute. It tries to understand the different views or interpretations of the law regarding victim participation that exist within the organization and will ultimately shape how victims’ rights are applied in the Court. Rather than being a legal study, this research is rooted in organizational psychology.
The Question of Form: Methodological Notes on Dialectics and International Law
Authors: ÖZSU UMUT
Published: July 2010

Emil Cioran often likened the experience of abandoning his native Romanian for French to submitting to a straitjacket. Indeed, the language in which he would go on to secure his reputation was itself, he wrote, best understood as ‘the combination of a straitjacket and a salon’. It was only by undergoing an ‘exercise in ascesis’, suspending his commitments to what he regarded as an earthier, less regimented tradition, that he had been able to don the garb of a French author, if still only as a ‘Balkan reject’. The rigour and crispness of his adopted tongue flew in the face of his desire. The severity of its lucidity stifled his passions, or simply channelled them along directions deviating from their natural path. ‘[Y]et’, Cioran went on to observe, ‘it is precisely on account of this incompatibility that I have attached myself to this language’. So much so that what caused him the greatest grief of all was to see that ‘[t]oday, when this language is in full decline, . . . the French themselves do not seem to mind.’
West Nile virus circulation in Veneto region in 2008–2009
Authors: BUSANI L. , CAPELLI G. , CECCHINATO M. , LORENZETTO M. , SAVINI G. , TERREGINO C. , VIO P. , BONFANTI L. , POZZA M. DALLA , MARANGON S.
Published: July 2010

West Nile virus (WNV) was detected in Italy, in late summer 2008 in horses and birds in the Po valley. As a consequence, an intense WNV surveillance was implemented in that area involving Emilia-Romagna, Veneto and Lombardy. This paper presents the results of the September 2008–November 2009 surveillance on equines, mosquitoes, wild birds, dogs and cattle in Veneto. WNV was detected in equines and dogs, and, to a lesser extent in cattle and wild birds. Simultaneous circulation of Usutu virus was detected by testing wild birds found dead. Usutu virus but not WNV was also found in mosquitoes monitored during 2009. Equine practices monitoring allowed the definition of an area of WNV circulation and the 2008–2009 westward and northward spread of the infection. Although a relatively low number of human cases and a low virus circulation in vectors and birds detected in Veneto region could be considered favourable conditions for a limited risk of human exposure, it remains difficult to predict the possible evolution of the epidemiological situation.
Consequentialism's Double-Edged Sword
Authors: SACHS BENJAMIN
Published: July 2010

Recent work on consequentialism has revealed it to be more flexible than previously thought. Consequentialists have shown how their theory can accommodate certain features with which it has long been considered incompatible, such as agent-centered constraints. This flexibility is usually thought to work in consequentialism's favor. I want to cast doubt on this assumption. I begin by putting forward the strongest statement of consequentialism's flexibility: the claim that,whateverset of intuitions the best non-consequentialist theory accommodates, we can construct a consequentialist theory that can do the same while still retaining whatever is compelling about consequentialism. I argue that if this is true then most likely the non-consequentialist theory with which we started will turn out to have that same compelling feature. So while this extreme flexibility, if indeed consequentialism has it (a question I leave to the side), makes consequentialism more appealing, it makes non-consequentialism more appealing too.
Pathways to Inflated Responsibility Beliefs, Responsibility Attitudes and Obsessive-Compulsive Symptoms: Factor Structure and Test of a Mediational Model
Authors: Smári Jakob , Þorsteinsdóttir Ástdís , Magnúsdóttir Lilja , Smári Unnur J. , Ólason Daníel Þ.
Published: July 2010

Introduction: Inflated responsibility has been hypothesized as an important influence on OCD symptoms. According to Salkovskis and colleagues (1999) there are in turn five developmental pathways that lead to inflated responsibility. Coles and Schofield (2008) proposed the Pathways to Responsibility Beliefs Scale (PIRBS) as a measure of these pathways. Method: In the present study the psychometric properties of an Icelandic translation of the PIRBS were evaluated and its factor structure was studied in a confirmatory factor analysis. Further it was tested whether responsibility mediated between pathways to responsibility beliefs and OCD symptoms. Results: While neither a four nor a five-factor structure of the PIRBS was found to be wholly satisfactory; support for the latter was slightly better. Correlations of the PIRBS scales with measures of responsibility and obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms were moderate as expected. Support was found for a mediating role of responsibility attitudes between pathways measured by the PIRBS and OCD symptoms in support of Salkovskis and colleagues' theory (1999). Conclusion: The PIRBS is a promising approach to study the developmental precursors of inflated responsibility and OCD symptoms but its factor structure may need a revision
The Episcopal Church in Jordan: Identity, Liturgy, and Mission
Authors: Miller Duane Alexander
Published: July 2010

The article begins with a brief review of the history of the diocese of Jerusalem. By interviewing eight members of the diocesan clergy in Jordan, the researcher desires to explore how the concepts in the title are related to each other within the Jordanian context. Is there a unique identity of Jordanian Anglicans? What is the desirability and/or feasibility of revising the prayer book? Given the declining demographics of Christians in the region, what avenues are open to these ministers to sustain their congregations? Specific care is paid to the topic of incorporating Muslim converts into existing congregations. Also included are some theological reflections on the meaning of liturgy within the Jordanian context and the diocesan policies for the formation of future priests, which have important implications for the future of the diocese.
Aufmerksamkeit als Mediator der Beziehung zwischen Fernsehverhalten und Schulleistung
Authors: Schittenhelm Robert , Ennemoser Marco , Schneider Wolfgang
Published: July 2010

Zusammenfassung. Obwohl negative Beziehungen zwischen Fernsehkonsum und Schriftspracherwerb inzwischen in zahlreichen Studien belegt werden konnten, ließ sich die Frage nach wesentlichen Wirkmechanismen bislang nur unzureichend klären. In der hier vorliegenden Studie wurde insbesondere die Rolle von Aufmerksamkeit/Konzentration als Mediator zwischen Fernsehkonsum und Schriftsprachleistung überprüft. Dabei sollte neben der Fernsehdauer auch die Bedeutung des Umschaltverhaltens (Zapping) exploriert werden. Insgesamt 60 Viertklässler bearbeiteten Tests zur Erfassung von Intelligenz, Konzentration sowie Lese- und Rechtschreibleistungen. Ferner kamen Eltern- und Lehrerfragebögen zur Erfassung von Aufmerksamkeitsproblemen zum Einsatz. Fernsehdauer und Umschaltverhalten wurden unter anderem anhand eines elektronischen Messgeräts erfasst. Die Befunde stützen die Konzentrationsabbau-Hypothese insofern, als die negative Beziehung zwischen Fernsehkonsum und schriftsprachlichen Leistungen durch das im Schulkontext beobachtbare Aufmerksamkeitsverhalten vermittelt wird. Andere ADHS-Merkmale (Impulsivität/Hyperaktivität) waren nicht mit dem Fernsehkonsum assoziiert. Zapping wies zwar keine direkten Zusammenhänge mit Schriftsprachleistungen auf, allerdings wurden Kinder, die sowohl „Vielseher” als auch „Vielzapper” waren, laut Elternfragebögen als besonders unaufmerksam beurteilt.
Der Zusammenhang zwischen außerschulischem Lesen und Lesekompetenz
Authors: Pfost Maximilian , Dörfler Tobias , Artelt Cordula
Published: July 2010

Zusammenfassung. Die vorliegende Arbeit beschäftigt sich mit dem Zusammenhang zwischen der Lesekompetenzentwicklung und der Entwicklung des außerschulischen Leseverhaltens von Schülerinnen und Schülern in den Klassenstufen 3 bis 5. Im Mittelpunkt der Betrachtung steht dabei die Frage, ob sich ein Muster reziproken Einflusses nachweisen lässt. Zudem soll der Einfluss der Drittvariablen Geschlecht und familiärer Bildungshintergrund der Schülerinnen und Schüler berücksichtigt werden. Zur Überprüfung der Fragestellungen werden in der vorliegenden Arbeit Daten von N = 923 Schülerinnen und Schüler aus der Bamberger BiKS-Studie (Bildungsprozesse, Kompetenzentwicklung und Formation von Selektionsentscheidungen im Vor- und Grundschulalter) unter Spezifikation eines Cross-lag Panel Modells analysiert. Die Ergebnisse bestätigen ein Modell wechselseitiger Beeinflussung des Leseverhaltens und der Lesekompetenz innerhalb der Gruppe von Schülerinnen und Schülern aus mittleren und höheren Bildungsschichten. Innerhalb der Gruppe von Schülerinnen und Schülern aus bildungsfernen Schichten lassen sich keine signifikanten wechselseitigen Einflüsse nachweisen.
Spatial averaging for small molecule diffusion in condensed phase environments
Authors: Plattner Nuria , Doll J. D. , Meuwly Markus
Published: July 2010

Spatial averaging is a new approach for sampling rare-event problems. The approach modifies the importance function which improves the sampling efficiency while keeping a defined relation to the original statistical distribution. In this work, spatial averaging is applied to multidimensional systems for typical problems arising in physical chemistry. They include (I) a CO molecule diffusing on an amorphous ice surface, (II) a hydrogen molecule probing favorable positions in amorphous ice, and (III) CO migration in myoglobin. The systems encompass a wide range of energy barriers and for all of them spatial averaging is found to outperform conventional Metropolis Monte Carlo. It is also found that optimal simulation parameters are surprisingly similar for the different systems studied, in particular, the radius of the point cloud over which the potential energy function is averaged. For H2 diffusing in amorphous ice it is found that facile migration is possible which is in agreement with previous suggestions from experiment. The free energy barriers involved are typically lower than 1 kcal/mol. Spatial averaging simulations for CO in myoglobin are able to locate all currently characterized metastable states. Overall, it is found that spatial averaging considerably improves the sampling of configurational space.
Mechanical and thermal stability of plasmonic emitters on flexible polyimide substrates
Authors: Araci Ismail Emre , Demir Veysi , Kropachev Aleksandr , Skotheim Terje , Norwood Robert A. , Peyghambarian N.
Published: July 2010

We have fabricated Ag/SiO2/Ag plasmonic thermal infrared (IR) emitters with different hexagonal lattice periods on flexible polyimide (PI) membranes. The high temperature resistance and comparable coefficient of thermal expansion with metallic films enabled the fabrication of plasmonic IR emitters on PI films. We have investigated the effects of temperature and mechanical strain on the spectral and structural properties of the flexible emitter. The low heat conductivity and low thermal mass of thin free standing PI substrates enables IR emitters with low power consumption (<1 W) and fast switching time (in the order of ten milliseconds).
Testing the doubly magic character of tin-132
Authors: Schwarzschild Bertram
Published: July 2010

Adding an extra neutron to a nucleus with magic numbers of both neutrons and protons, and watching how it settles in, tests the shell model and can help elucidate the creation of heavy elements in supernovae.
Initiative aims to quantify the paybacks from basic research
Authors: Kramer David
Published: July 2010

Responding to congressional demands, a multiagency coalition wants to measure the economic, scientific, and societal benefits of federally funded basic research.
Sanctions on Iran slow science, slam a scientist
Authors: Feder Toni
Published: July 2010

Physicists believe in science as a messenger for peace and a means to improve quality of life; but sanctions complicate international collaborations and breed aggression toward the West.
Polariton condensates
Authors: Snoke David , Littlewood Peter
Published: July 2010

A carefully engineered coupling between light and matter could pave the way to a room-temperature Bose-Einstein condensate.
Quantum electrical Standards
Authors: Zimmerman Neil M.
Published: July 2010

The ampere and other electrical units defined by international agreement are presently established through challenging experiments. A redefinition of those units based on quantum laws would enable a simpler and more reliable realization.
Small nuclear reactors raise big hopes
Authors: Guinnessy Paul
Published: July 2010

Has the climate changed for the nuclear power industry? Modular reactors may open new markets.
Genome-wide identification of cis-regulatory motifs and modules underlying gene coregulation using statistics and phylogeny
Authors: Rouault Hervé , Mazouni Khalil , Couturier Lydie , Hakim Vincent , Schweisguth François
Published: July 2010

Cell fate determination depends in part on the establishment of specific transcriptional programs of gene expression. These programs result from the interpretation of the genomic cis-regulatory information by sequence-specific factors. Decoding this information in sequenced genomes is an important issue. Here, we developed statistical analysis tools to computationally identify the cis-regulatory elements that control gene expression in a set of coregulated genes. Starting with a small number of validated and/or predicted cis-regulatory modules (CRMs) in a reference species as a training set, but with no a priori knowledge of the factors acting in
trans
, we computationally predicted transcription factor binding sites (TFBSs) and genomic CRMs underlying coregulation. This method was applied to the gene expression program active in
Drosophila melanogaster
sensory organ precursor cells (SOPs), a specific type of neural progenitor cells. Mutational analysis showed that four, including one newly characterized, out of the five top-ranked families of predicted TFBSs were required for SOP-specific gene expression. Additionaly, 19 out of the 29 top-ranked predicted CRMs directed gene expression in neural progenitor cells, i.e., SOPs or larval brain neuroblasts, with a notable fraction active in SOPs (11/29). We further identified the
lola
gene as the target of two SOP-specific CRMs and found that the
lola
gene contributed to SOP specification. The statistics and phylogeny-based tools described here can be more generally applied to identify the cis-regulatory elements of specific gene regulatory networks in any family of related species with sequenced genomes.
Evaluation of the In concentration of an InxGa1−xSb alloy layer in cross-sectional HRTEM images of III–V semiconductor superlattices
Authors: Quan Maohua , Guo Fengyun , Li Meicheng , Zhao Liancheng
Published: July 2010

Atomic-scale positional resolved lattice spacing measurement is used to study the In concentration of the alloy layer in InAs/In
x
Ga1−x
Sb superlattices by the molecular beam epitaxy techniques. The unstrained lattice distance d along three directions, [0 0 1], [1 1 0] and [1 1 1], was measured and the average lattice constant was calculated. The experimental lattice constants of InAs layers are almost equal to the theoretical ones. We have found that the average lattice constant of In0.25Ga0.75Sb alloy layers is in good agreement with previously reported Vegard's values, being slightly larger. The results indicate that the In concentration of x = 0.18 has a larger deviation compared with the designed values.
Analytical expression of the magneto-optical Kerr effect and Brillouin light scattering intensity arising from dynamic magnetization
Authors: Hamrle Jaroslav , Pištora Jaromír , Hillebrands Burkard , Lenk Benjamin , Münzenberg Markus
Published: July 2010

Time-resolved magneto-optical Kerr effect (MOKE) and Brillouin light scattering (BLS) spectroscopy are important techniques for the investigation of magnetization dynamics. In this paper, we analytically calculate the MOKE and BLS signals from prototypical spin-wave modes in a ferromagnetic layer. The reliability of the analytical expressions is confirmed by optically exact numerical calculations. Finally, we discuss the dependence of the MOKE and BLS signals on the ferromagnetic layer thickness.