bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acoustic Characteristics of the Snapping Shrimp Sound Observed in the Coastal Sea of Korea
Authors: Kim Byoung-Nam , Hahn Jooyoung , Choi Bok Kyoung , Kim Bong-Chae , Park Yosup , Jung Seom-Kyu , Lee Yong-Kuk
Published: July 2011

The typical temporal waveforms, spectra, and water-temperature dependence of the snapping shrimp sound in the coastal sea of Korea were investigated. The peak-to-peak source levels of the snapping shrimp sound at three sites in the coastal sea, at water depths of 8, 10, and 40 m, were also investigated. The waveform and dominant frequency response band of the sound were similar to those observed under laboratory conditions. The broad peak frequency components of the normalized average snapping shrimp sound spectra measured in nine different coastal sea areas were differently determined by superposition of the peak frequency components of individual snapping shrimp spectra for the each area. The sound did not significantly affect the ambient noise level at a low seawater temperature (<10 °C). The mean peak-to-peak source levels of the snapping shrimp sound at the sites with water depths of 8 and 10 m were similar, with estimated values of 176 ±3 and 175 ±3 dB (re 1 µPa at 1 m), respectively. However, the estimated mean peak-to-peak source level at the site with a water depth of 40 m was 184 ±2 dB (re 1 µPa at 1 m). The differences in the mean peak-to-peak source levels at the three sites could be caused by the differences in the ambient pressure at the sea bottoms of the sites. For water depths below 10 m, the mean peak-to-peak source levels of the snapping shrimp sound were much lower than those estimated in a previous study, in which the water depth at the experimental site was 6.1 m. On the other hand, the mean peak-to-peak source level at the site with a water depth of 40 m was similar to that estimated in a previous study. This study shows that the mean peak-to-peak source levels of the snapping shrimp sound may change as water depth is largely varied.
SabR enhances nikkomycin production via regulating the transcriptional level of sanG, a pathway-specific regulatory gene in Streptomyces ansochromogenes
Authors: Pan Yuanyuan , Wang Linqi , He Xihong , Tian Yuqing , Liu Gang , Tan Huarong
Published: July 2011

Background

sabR is a pleiotropic regulatory gene which has been shown to positively regulate the nikkomycin biosynthesis and negatively affect the sporulation of Streptomyces ansochromogenes. In this study, we investigate the mechanism of SabR on modulating nikkomycin production in Streptomyces ansochromogenes.

Results

The transcription start point of sabR was determined by high-resolution S1 nuclease mapping and localized at the nucleotide T at position 37 bp upstream of the potential sabR translation start codon (GTG). Disruption of sabR enhanced its own transcription, but retarded the nikkomycin production. Over-expression of sabR enhanced nikkomycin biosynthesis in Streptomyces ansochromogenes. EMSA analysis showed that SabR bound to the upstream region of sanG, but it did not bind to the upstream region of its encoding gene (sabR), sanF and the intergenic region between sanN and sanO. DNase 1 footprinting assays showed that the SabR-binding site upstream of sanG was 5'-CTTTAAGTCACCTGGCTCATTCGCGTTCGCCCAGCT-3' which was designated as SARE. Deletion of SARE resulted in the delay of nikkomycin production that was similar to that of sabR disruption mutant.

Conclusions

These results indicated that SabR modulated nikkomycin biosynthesis as an enhancer via interaction with the promoter region of sanG, and expanded our understanding about regulatory cascade in nikkomycin biosynthesis.
Burnout among Judo Coaches in Turkey
Authors: Gencay Selcuk , Gencay Okkes Alpaslan
Published: July 2011

Burnout among Judo Coaches in Turkey: Selcuk Ge n c ay, et al. Department of Physical Education and Sport Teaching, School of Physical Education and Sport, Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam University, Turkey—

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of professional burnout experienced by Turkish judo coaches and to compare possible differences in the three burnout dimensions based on coaching experience in years and satisfaction status of their sport administrators.

Methods

The data were obtained by using a threesection questionnaire including a socio demographic data form and the Turkish version of the Maslach Burnout Inventory from 65 judo coaches working in the Turkish Judo and Kurash Federation.

Results

In the analysis of data, descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) and one‐way ANOVA tests were used. This study showed that judo coaches have medium level burnout experience. The results also showed that there were significant differences in the emotional exhaustion levels of judo coaches based on coaching experience in years and satisfaction status from their sport administrators.

Conclusions

Burnout appears to be a problematic issue for judo coaches. When coaches begin to feel emotionally depleted, they distance themselves from athletes, and experience a reduced sense of meaning about their work; it is likely to affect the quality of the athletic experience for both the coach and the athletes.
Studies on the Antiulcer and Gastrointestinal Effects of Stem Bark Extract of Bridelia ferruginea
Authors: Ezike Adaobi Chioma , Akah Peter Achunike , Nnamani Ejike Marcellinus , Okoli Charles Ogbonnaya , Ojike Ferdinand Uchenna , Eze Fidelis Sunday , Chime Chinenye Edith , Azosiri Ifeoma Juliet
Published: July 2011

The antiulcer and gastrointestinal effects of methanol stem bark extract (BFME) of Bridelia ferruginea Benth. (Euphorbiaceae) and its solvent fractionsdichloromethane (DCMF) and methanol (MF)were studied using indomethacin- and ethanol-induced ulcers in rats, small intestinal transit of charcoal meal in mice, and the effects on acetylcholine-induced contractions of the isolated guinea pig ileum. The extract and fractions significantly (P<0.05) protected the rats against ethanol and indomethacin-induced ulcers and inhibited small intestinal propulsion in the order of magnitude: DCMF>MF>BFME. On the guinea pig ileum, MF (0.05  6.40 mg/ml) elicited no inhibition, DCMF (5  40 ?g/ml) antagonized acetylcholine-induced contractions of the guinea pig ileum with IC50 of 10.47?g/ml, while BFME (0.05  12.80 mg/ml) contracted the guinea pig ileum with EC50 of 1 mg/ml. Oral LD50 of BFME in mice was estimated to be 2,154 mg/kg. Phytochemistry tests revealed the presence of tannins, saponins, steroids, terpenoids, flavonoids and resins in BFME, MF tested positive for tannins, saponins, steroids, terpenoids, and flavonoids, while DCMF gave positive reactions for flavonoids, steroids, terpenoids and resins. These findings suggest that constituents of the stem bark of B. ferruginea possess antiulcer properties. In addition, some non-polar constituents possess spasmolytic activity while spasmogenic activity is likely associated with some polar constituents.
Continuum of Risk Analysis Methods to Assess Tillage System Sustainability at the Experimental Plot Level
Authors: Fathelrahman Eihab M. , Ascough II James C. , Hoag Dana L. , Malone Robert W. , Heilman Philip , Wiles Lori J. , Kanwar Ramesh S.
Published: July 2011

This study applied a broad continuum of risk analysis methods including mean-variance and coefficient of variation (CV) statistical criteria, second-degree stochastic dominance (SSD), stochastic dominance with respect to a function (SDRF), and stochastic efficiency with respect to a function (SERF) for comparing income-risk efficiency sustainability of conventional and reduced tillage systems. Fourteen years (1990–2003) of economic budget data derived from 35 treatments on 36 experimental plots under corn (Zea mays L.) and soybean (Glycine max L.) at the Iowa State University Northeast Research Station near Nashua, IA, USA were used. In addition to the other analyses, a visually-based Stoplight or “probability of target value” procedure was employed for displaying gross margin and net return probability distribution information. Mean-variance and CV analysis of the economic measures alone provided somewhat contradictive and inconclusive sustainability rankings, i.e., corn/soybean gross margin and net return showed that different tillage system alternatives were the highest ranked depending on the criterion and type of crop. Stochastic dominance analysis results were similar for SSD and SDRF in that both the conventional and reduced tillage system alternatives were highly ranked depending on the type of crop and tillage system. For the SERF analysis, results were dependent on the type of crop and level of risk aversion. The conventional tillage system was preferred for both corn and soybean for the Stoplight analysis. The results of this study are unique in that they highlight the potential of both traditional stochastic dominance and SERF methods for distinguishing economically sustainable choices between different tillage systems across a range of risk aversion. This study also indicates that the SERF risk analysis method appears to be a useful and easily understood tool to assist farm managers, experimental researchers, and potentially policy makers and advisers on problems involving agricultural risk and sustainability.
Répertoire décoratif de l'Afrique proconsulaire : deux thèmes répandus sur la côte, leur évolution et leur diffusion
Authors: Ferchiou Naïdé
Published: July 2011

The being, the distribution and the diffusion area of cutter's workshops in Africa Proconsularis are very little known.

Here are examined two decorative motives often carved in marble. The analysis of their variations and diffusion through the province of Africa points to the being of workshops or, at least, of sculptor shifts using their own catalogue ; it seams to depend upon the political, social and administrative personality of the financers.
Légionnaire ou carrier ? Le personnage sculpté du Pont du Gard
Authors: Bessac Jean-Claude
Published: July 2011

The last rehabilitations of the Pont du Gard lead to identify a man roughly carved on the untreated facing of the downstream keystone of the central arch of the medium level of the monument. The first archeologist who observed the sculpture thought it could be the man who designed the bridge who was represented as a legionary wearing a helmet and holding a rolled map. But the present and more thorough study questions the previous interpretation and suggests the following hypothesis: this sculpture would rather be an improvised and unfinished work showing a quarrier at work. This new approach takes into account new data, more particularly the state of incompleteness of the sculpture; these facts lead to question the former identification of a helmet and a roll. Furthermore, this analysis is based on the position of the body and on archeological and ethnical comparisons in order to propose the image of a quarrier at work with his extracting tool.
Alkylation Effects on the Energy Transfer of Highly Vibrationally Excited Naphthalene
Authors: Hsu Hsu Chen , Tsai Ming‐Tsang , Dyakov Yuri A. , Ni Chi‐Kung
Published: July 2011

The energy transfer of highly vibrationally excited isomers of dimethylnaphthalene and 2‐ethylnaphthalene in collisions with krypton were investigated using crossed molecular beam/time‐of‐flight mass spectrometer/time‐sliced velocity map ion imaging techniques at a collision energy of approximately 300 cm−1. Angular‐resolved energy‐transfer distribution functions were obtained directly from the images of inelastic scattering. The results show that alkyl‐substituted naphthalenes transfer more vibrational energy to translational energy than unsubstituted naphthalene. Alkylation enhances the V→T energy transfer in the range −ΔEd=−100∼−1500 cm−1 by approximately a factor of 2. However, the maximum values of V→T energy transfer for alkyl‐substituted naphthalenes are about 1500∼2000 cm−1, which is similar to that of naphthalene. The lack of rotation‐like wide‐angle motion of the aromatic ring and no enhancement in very large V→T energy transfer, like supercollisions, indicates that very large V→T energy transfer requires special vibrational motions. This transfer cannot be achieved by the low‐frequency vibrational motions of alkyl groups.
Self‐Assembly of Nanosized 0D Clusters: CdS Quantum Dot–Polyoxotungstate Nanohybrids with Strongly Coupled Electronic Structures and Visible‐Light‐Active Photofunctions
Authors: Kim Hyo Na , Kim Tae Woo , Choi Kyong‐Hoon , Kim In Young , Kim Yong‐Rok , Hwang Seong‐Ju
Published: July 2011

Nanohybrids of CdS–polyoxotungstate with strongly coupled electronic structures and visible‐light‐active photofunctions can be synthesized by electrostatically derived self‐assembly of very small CdS quantum dots, or QDs, (particle size≈2.5 nm) and polyoxotungstate nanoclusters (cluster size≈1 nm). The formation of CdS–polyoxotungstate nanohybrids is confirmed by high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy, elemental mapping, and powder X‐ray diffraction analysis. Due to the strong electronic coupling between two semiconductors, the CdS–polyoxotungstate nanohybrids show a narrow bandgap energy of around 1.9–2.7 eV, thus reflecting their ability to harvest visible light. Time‐resolved photoluminescence experiments indicate that the self‐assembly between nanosized CdS and polyoxotungstate is very effective in increasing the lifetime of holes and electrons, thus indicating an efficient electron transfer between two‐component semiconductors. The hybridization results not only in a significant improvement in the photostability of CdS QD but also in the creation of visible‐light‐induced photochromism. Of particular importance is that the present nanohybrids show visible‐light‐driven photocatalytic activity to produce H2 and O2, which is superior to those of the unhybridized CdS and polyoxotungstate. The self‐assembly of nanometer‐level semiconductor clusters can provide a powerful way of optimizing the photoinduced functionalities of each component (i.e., visible‐induced photochromism and photocatalysis) by means of strong electronic coupling.
Effect of eccentricity on the pumping capacity in an unbaffled vessel
Authors: Hidalgo‐Millán A. , Soto E. , Zenit R. , Ascanio G.
Published: July 2011

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of the shaft eccentricity on the pumping capacity in stirred vessels estimated with the aid of the particle image velocimetry technique with impellers in centred and off‐centred positions. For the off‐centred case, 19 different planes in the azimuthal direction were taken to obtain a reliable average velocity into the whole tank. The velocity and vorticity fields were evaluated for all positions. A Rushton turbine and a pitched blade turbine (PBT) were operated in laminar and turbulent regimes. The pumping number increased considerably with eccentricity for the Rushton turbine (radial flow), whereas the effect for the PBT turbine (axial flow) was almost negligible.
Mechanistic Study on the Production of Hydrogen Peroxide in the Anthraquinone Process (Eur. J. Org. Chem. 22/2011)
Authors: Kato Tomio , Yoshizawa Kazunari
Published: July 2011

The cover picture shows a mechanism for the production of hydrogen peroxide in the anthraquinone process with a chemical plant as the background. Density functional theory calculations demonstrate that a hydrogen atom of anthrahydroquinone is directly abstracted by triplet dioxygen to produce a hydroperoxide radical and a 10‐hydroxy‐9‐anthroxyl radical, followed by subsequent hydrogen‐atom abstraction that leads to the formation of hydrogen peroxide and anthraquinone. Details are discussed in the article by K. Yoshizawa et al. on p. 4113 ff.
The synarcual cartilage of batoids with emphasis on the synarcual of Rajidae
Authors: Claeson Kerin M.
Published: July 2011

Comparison of embryonic specimens with juvenile and mature specimens of other skates indicates that the relative developmental sequence of events is maintained among several taxa within larger clades. However, there is a fundamental difference between the pattern of chondrification and the pattern of calcification in skates. Early in ontogeny a short synarcual surrounds the first free vertebral centrum. Additional neural arch segments are incorporated from anterior to posterior and the relative length of the synarcual cartilage to total length of the body normalizes early. A secondary direction of chondrification, from ventral to dorsal, is also present. Juveniles and subadults show that synarcual calcification is relatively late compared to the calcification of other regions of the skeleton and proceeds from lateral to medial. Comparison with extinct taxa also indicates that there is a decrease in vertebral centrum involvement with the synarcual cartilage over the evolutionary history of the clade. Results from exploratory analyses of morphospace and taxonomy reveal that phylogeny explains part, but not all, of the data on the synarcual in Rajidae. There is evidence of individual and ontogenetic variation among all species of skates examined, however, phylogenetically informative variation prevails. Comparison with other batoids demonstrates a trend where the number of vertebral centra flanked by the synarcual cartilage decreases among more derived taxa indicating a high degree of convergent morphology among batoids with potential functional significance. J. Morphol., 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A frequency‐reconfigurable inverted‐F antenna for terrestrial broadcast applications
Authors: Guo Qingxin , Li Zengrui , Ju Jilong , Yang Yaoqing
Published: July 2011

This article presents a frequency‐reconfigurable printed inverted‐F antenna for terrestrial broadcast applications. To reconfigure the operating frequency, PIN diodes and variable capacitor diodes are used in this antenna structure. To expand its operating frequency bandwidth, two inverted‐F radiators are integrated on the same printed circuit board. Simulation and measurement results show the operating frequencies can be controlled with the junction capacitance or the reversed‐bias voltage of varicaps. The far‐field radiation patterns shows that they are nearly omnidirectional within the reconfigurable frequency band. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 53:2242–2245, 2011; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.26241
Highly linear electro‐optic modulator based on ring resonator
Authors: Fegadolli William , Oliveira José Edimar Barbosa , Almeida Vilson R.
Published: July 2011

The distortion introduced by a ring resonator modulator (RRM) on an optical link is analyzed and modeled in terms of the design parameters of the device.The results show that the RRM can help suppress the third‐order intermodulation, allowing for achieving a high spurious free dynamic range (SFDR) of about 126 dB Hz4/5 with respect to the limiting spur. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 53:2375–2378, 2011; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.26253
Standing balance measurement system based on bend sensors using fiber Bragg gratings
Authors: Cheng Chin‐Hsing , Song Bing‐Fong , Liu Wen‐Fung
Published: July 2011

The standing balance measurement system for the center of gravity of the human body using fiber Bragg gratings (FBGs) is proposed in this paper. The measurement platform is used to measure the center of gravity of the human body in order to diagnose if a patient has a balance or related disorder as well as the severity. The system obtains parameters of the patient such as distance and area by measuring the center of gravity shake that induces stress signals to bend FBG sensor. Wavelength shift of the FBG is detected, and this signal is used to display a center of gravity trajectory figure on a computer screen. Medical database and these data can be used to determine whether the patient suffers from a balance‐related disease and provides the best method for treatment. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 53:2355–2359, 2011; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.26267
Improved compact spurious passband suppression rat‐race coupler using asymmetric T‐shaped units
Authors: Velidi Vamsi Krishna , Shrivastava Sarika , Sanyal Subrata
Published: July 2011

A compact rat‐race coupler (RRC) using asymmetric tapped‐stub units for wide‐range spurious passband suppression is presented.The main advantage of the present approach is that, under similar conditions, asymmetric T‐shaped unit exhibits slow‐wave and stopband effects, superior to those of traditional symmetric T‐shaped unit; this result in extra size reduction and extended harmonic suppression within the fabrication limit of high impedance line. Design equations along with graphs are presented. A fabricated prototype RRC, at f0 = 0.5 GHz, has circuit area only 28% of that of the conventional one and no harmonic passband up to 10 f0. The method also features good 20‐dB input matching bandwidth and sharp‐harmonic rejection (>30 dB at second harmonic) performances. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 53:2248–2251, 2011; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.26273
Coplanar waveguide (CPW)‐FED circular slot antenna for W‐band and imaging system applications
Authors: Anh Tuan Hoang , Han Min , Baek Yong‐Hyun , Lee Sang‐Jin , Van Hoang Nguyen , Kim Jin‐Ho , Chae Yeon‐Sik , Park Hyun‐Chang , Rhee Jin‐Koo , Jung Joo‐Ho , Park Young‐Wook
Published: July 2011

Using a coplanar waveguide (CPW) feed with a short‐circuiting stub, the fed circular slot antenna for W‐band operation is presented.The obtained results show that the impedance bandwidth, which is determined by 10 dB return‐loss of the proposed slot antenna, can reach to 21% with the center frequency at 94 GHz (80 GHz–100 GHz), and the gain achieves 3.05 dBi at 92 GHz with good radiation performance. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 53:2298–2302, 2011; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.26284
A novel spiral meander spurline resonator and its implementation to a low‐phase noise oscillator
Authors: Cho Sung‐Jin , Kim Nam‐Young
Published: July 2011

This article presents two different types of novel spiral spurline resonators and their implementation to a microwave oscillator. The spiral spurline structure is made to have a low resonant frequency and a high quality factor compared with other conventional spurline structures. Moreover, the T‐shape symmetric spiral meander structure is more enhanced than a single spiral to help generate a low phase noise oscillator. The two types of resonators performances show a return loss of 0.47 and 0.8 dB, an insertion loss of 33.64 and 38.74 dB, and a quality factor of 134 at 7.2 GHz and 172 at 6.4 GHz, respectively. In addition, according to the design and performance of the resonator, we can derive from this performance an optimized oscillator. The oscillators using this resonator show good phase noise performances of −100.69 and −104.41 dBc/Hz at a 100 kHz offset from the carrier frequencies of 7.15 and 6.39 GHz at output powers of 13.44 and 11.58 dBm, respectively. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 53:2258–2262, 2011; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.26286
A History of Greece
Authors: Thirlwall Connop
Published: July 2011

This is the seventh of eight volumes on the history of Greece, first published in 1840. The volumes were aimed at two audiences: those people who wanted more than a superficial knowledge of the subject, but did not have the time or means to study the original sources, and those who had access to the ancient authors, but required a guide or interpreter. Volume 7 covers Alexander's campaigns in India, his passage down the Indus and return to Susa, and his death. It then takes the story to the end of the Lamian War, and to Cassander's occupation of Athens. Next it deals with the treaty between Antigonus and Ptolemy, Cassander and Lysimachus in 311 BCE. The final chapter considers the period from 311 BCE to the battle of Ipsus. This book will be of interest to researchers and students of ancient history.
Principles of Geometry
Authors: Baker H. F.
Published: July 2011

Henry Frederick Baker (1866–1956) was a renowned British mathematician specialising in algebraic geometry. He was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society in 1898 and appointed the Lowndean Professor of Astronomy and Geometry in the University of Cambridge in 1914. First published between 1922 and 1925, the six-volume Principles of Geometry was a synthesis of Baker's lecture series on geometry and was the first British work on geometry to use axiomatic methods without the use of co-ordinates. The first four volumes describe the projective geometry of space of between two and five dimensions, with the last two volumes reflecting Baker's later research interests in the birational theory of surfaces. The work as a whole provides a detailed insight into the geometry which was developing at the time of publication. This, the fifth volume, describes the birational geometry of curves.
Defoe's America
Authors: Todd Dennis
Published: July 2011

The Americas appear as an evocative setting in more than half of Daniel Defoe's novels, and often offer a new beginning for his characters. In the first full-length study of Defoe and colonialism, Dennis Todd explores why the New World loomed so large in Defoe's imagination. By focusing on the historical contexts that informed Defoe's depiction of American Indians, African slaves, and white indentured servants, Dennis Todd investigates the colonial assumptions that shaped his novels and, at the same time, uncovers how Defoe used details of the American experience in complex, often figurative ways to explore the psychological bases of the profound conversions and transformations that his heroes and heroines undergo. And by examining what Defoe knew and did not know about America, what he falsely believed and what he knowingly falsified, Defoe's America probes the doubts, hesitancies, and contradictions he had about the colonial project he so fervently promoted.
Symbols and Legitimacy in Soviet Politics
Authors: Gill Graeme
Published: July 2011

Symbols and Legitimacy in Soviet Politics analyses the way in which Soviet symbolism and ritual changed from the regime's birth in 1917 to its fall in 1991. Graeme Gill focuses on the symbolism in party policy and leaders' speeches, artwork and political posters, and urban redevelopment, and on ritual in the political system. He shows how this symbolism and ritual were worked into a dominant metanarrative which underpinned Soviet political development. Gill also shows how, in each of these spheres, the images changed both over the life of the regime and during particular stages: the Leninist era metanarrative differed from that of the Stalin period, which differed from that of the Khrushchev and Brezhnev periods, which was, in turn, changed significantly under Gorbachev. In charting this development, the book lays bare the dynamics of the Soviet regime and a major reason for its fall.
Communicating Science
Authors: Russell Nicholas
Published: July 2011

Governments and scientific establishments have been encouraging the development of professional and popular science communication. This book critically examines the origin of this drive to improve communication, and discusses why simply improving scientists' communication skills and understanding of their audiences may not be enough. Written in an engaging style, and avoiding specialist jargon, this book provides an insight into science's place in society by looking at science communication in three contexts: the professional patterns of communication among scientists, popular communication to the public, and science in literature and drama. This three-part framework shows how historical and cultural factors operate in today's complex communication landscape, and should be actively considered when designing and evaluating science communication. Ideal for students and practitioners in science, engineering and medicine, this book provides a better understanding of the culture, sociology and mechanics of professional and popular communication.
The Sociology of Social Problems
Authors: Jamrozik Adam , Nocella Luisa
Published: July 2011

Social problems such as unemployment, poverty and drug addiction are a fact of life in industrialised societies. This book examines the sociology of social problems from interesting and challenging perspectives. It analyses how social problems emerge and are defined as such, who takes responsibility for them, who is threatened by them and how they are managed, solved or ignored. The authors examine and critique existing theories of social problems before developing their own theoretical framework. Their 'theory of residualist conversion of social problems' explains how certain social problems threaten legitimate power structures, so that problems of a social or political nature are transformed into personal problems, and the 'helping professions' are left to intervene. This book will become a key reference on class, inequality and social intervention and an important text for students in sociology and social work courses.
Quantum Phase Transitions
Authors: Sachdev Subir
Published: July 2011

Describing the physical properties of quantum materials near critical points with long-range many-body quantum entanglement, this book introduces readers to the basic theory of quantum phases, their phase transitions and their observable properties. This second edition begins with a new section suitable for an introductory course on quantum phase transitions, assuming no prior knowledge of quantum field theory. It also contains several new chapters to cover important recent advances, such as the Fermi gas near unitarity, Dirac fermions, Fermi liquids and their phase transitions, quantum magnetism, and solvable models obtained from string theory. After introducing the basic theory, it moves on to a detailed description of the canonical quantum-critical phase diagram at non-zero temperatures. Finally, a variety of more complex models are explored. This book is ideal for graduate students and researchers in condensed matter physics and particle and string theory.
Imaging of Vertebral Trauma
Authors: Daffner Richard H.
Published: July 2011

The imaging methods used to evaluate patients with suspected vertebral injuries have undergone radical changes in the past decade, the most significant being the ascendancy of computed tomography (CT) to become the primary investigative modality. Issues such as high radiation dose associated with CT studies and health care reform and cost containment also have a significant impact on clinical decision-making. This new edition of the classic landmark text for vertebral trauma imaging provides an in-depth discussion on the indications and methods of imaging the spine based on currently available clinical evidence. Every chapter has been extensively revised and the illustrations represent state-of-the-art imaging. A completely new chapter on pediatric injuries has been added. Imaging of Vertebral Trauma, third edition, is an invaluable and essential tool in the assessment of any patient with suspected vertebral or spinal cord injury.
Evaluation of flow resistance in gravel‐bed rivers through a large field data set
Authors: Rickenmann Dieter , Recking Alain
Published: July 2011

A data set of 2890 field measurements was used to test the ability of several conventional flow resistance equations to predict mean flow velocity in gravel bed rivers when used with no calibration. The tests were performed using both flow depth and discharge as input since discharge may be a more reliable measure of flow conditions in shallow flows. Generally better predictions are obtained when using flow discharge as input. The results indicate that the Manning‐Strickler and the Keulegan equations show considerable disagreement with observed flow velocities for flow depths smaller than 10 times the characteristic grain diameter. Most equations show some systematic deviation for small relative flow depth. The use of new definitions for dimensionless variables in terms of nondimensional hydraulic geometry equations allows the development of a new flow resistance equation. The best overall performance is obtained by the Ferguson approach, which combines two power law flow resistance equations that are different for deep and shallow flows. To use this approach with flow discharge as input, a logarithmic matching equation in terms of the new dimensionless variables is proposed. For the domains of intermediate and large‐scale roughness, the field data indicate a considerable increase in flow resistance as compared with the domain of small‐scale roughness. The Ferguson approach is used to discuss the importance of flow resistance partitioning for bed load transport calculations at flow conditions with intermediate‐ and large‐scale roughness in natural gravel, cobble, and boulder bed streams.
Interendothelial Claudin-5 Expression Depends on Cerebral Endothelial Cell–Matrix Adhesion by β1-Integrins
Authors: Osada Takashi , Gu Yu-Huan , Kanazawa Masato , Tsubota Yoshiaki , Hawkins Brian T , Spatz Maria , Milner Richard , del Zoppo Gregory J
Published: July 2011

The hypothesis tested by these studies states that in addition to interendothelial cell tight junction proteins, matrix adhesion by β1-integrin receptors expressed by endothelial cells have an important role in maintaining the cerebral microvessel permeability barrier. Primary brain endothelial cells from C57 BL/6 mice were incubated with β1-rintegrin function-blocking antibody (Ha2/5) or isotype control and the impacts on claudin-5 expression and microvessel permeability were quantified. Both flow cytometry and immunofluorescence studies demonstrated that the interendothelial claudin-5 expression by confluent endothelial cells was significantly decreased in a time-dependent manner by Ha2/5 exposure relative to isotype. Furthermore, to assess the barrier properties, transendothelial electrical resistance and permeability measurements of the monolayer, and stereotaxic injection into the striatum of mice were performed. Ha2/5 incubation reduced the resistance of endothelial cell monolayers significantly, and significantly increased permeability to 40 and 150 k Da dextrans. Ha2/5 injection into mouse striatum produced significantly greater IgG extravasation than the isotype or the control injections. This study demonstrates that blockade of β1-integrin function changes interendothelial claudin-5 expression and increases microvessel permeability. Hence, endothelial cell-matrix interactions via β1-integrin directly affect interendothelial cell tight junction claudin-5 expression and brain microvascular permeability.
Assessing the thermal conductivity of non-uniform thin-films: Nanocrystalline Cu composites incorporating carbon nanotubes
Authors: Kang Stephen D. , Joon Yoo Jung , Lyeo Ho-Ki , Yong Song Jae , Lee Sungjun , Yu Jin
Published: July 2011

We demonstrate a procedure for measuring the thermal conductivity of non-ideal thin-films with significant non-uniformity. By spatially mapping the thermal transport with time-domain thermoreflectance measurements, followed by statistical analysis, we determined the thermal conductivity of Cu composite films containing dispersed carbon nanotubes (CNTs). The thermal conductivity of the composite decreased from 188 to 60 W/m K as 1.8 wt. % of multi-walled CNTs was incorporated into nanocrystalline Cu. We compared the decreasing trend with that calculated from a scattering model to find out that the CNTs scatter the heat carriers in Cu.
Deprivation of maternal care has long-lasting consequences for the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis of zebra finches
Authors: Banerjee Sunayana B. , Arterbery Adam S. , Fergus Daniel J. , Adkins-Regan Elizabeth
Published: July 2011

Early-life stress caused by the deprivation of maternal care has been shown to have long-lasting effects on the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis in offspring of uniparental mammalian species. We asked if deprivation of maternal care in biparental species alters stress responsiveness of offspring, using a biparental avian species—the zebra finch,Taeniopygia guttata. In our experiment, one group of birds was raised by both male and female parents (control), and another was raised by males alone (maternally deprived). During adulthood, offspring of both groups were subjected to two stressors (restraint and isolation), and corticosterone concentrations were measured. Additionally, we measured baseline levels of the two corticosteroid receptors—glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and mineralocorticoid receptor (MR)—in the hippocampus, hypothalamus and cerebellum. Our results suggest that maternally deprived offspring are hyper-responsive to isolation in comparison with controls. Furthermore, mRNA levels of both GR and MR receptors are altered in maternally deprived offspring in comparison with controls. Thus, absence of maternal care has lasting consequences for HPA function in a biparental species where paternal care is available.
Plastid-to-Nucleus Retrograde Signals Are Essential for the Expression of Nuclear Starch Biosynthesis Genes during Amyloplast Differentiation in Tobacco BY-2 Cultured Cells
Authors: Enami Kazuhiko , Ozawa Tomoki , Motohashi Noriko , Nakamura Masayuki , Tanaka Kan , Hanaoka Mitsumasa
Published: July 2011

Amyloplasts, a subtype of plastid, are found in nonphotosynthetic tissues responsible for starch synthesis and storage. When tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) Bright Yellow-2 cells are cultured in the presence of cytokinin instead of auxin, their plastids differentiate from proplastids to amyloplasts. In this program, it is well known that the expression of nucleus-encoded starch biosynthesis genes, such as ADP-Glucose Pyrophosphorylase (AgpS) and Granule-Bound Starch Synthase (GBSS), is specifically induced. In this study, we investigated the roles of plastid gene expression in amyloplast differentiation. Microarray analysis of plastid genes revealed that no specific transcripts were induced in amyloplasts. Nevertheless, amyloplast development accompanied with starch biosynthesis was drastically inhibited in the presence of plastid transcription/translation inhibitors. Surprisingly, the expression of nuclear AgpS and GBSS was significantly repressed by the addition of these inhibitors, suggesting that a plastid-derived signal(s) that reflects normal plastid gene expression was essential for nuclear gene expression. A series of experiments was performed to examine the effects of intermediates and inhibitors of tetrapyrrole biosynthesis, since some of the intermediates have been characterized as candidates for plastid-to-nucleus retrograde signals. Addition of levulinic acid, an inhibitor of tetrapyrrole biosynthesis, resulted in the up-regulation of nuclear AgpS and GBSS gene expression as well as starch accumulation, while the addition of heme showed opposite effects. Thus, these results indicate that plastid transcription and/or translation are required for normal amyloplast differentiation, regulating the expression of specific nuclear genes by unknown signaling mechanisms that can be partly mediated by tetrapyrrole intermediates.
The goals of communicating bad news in health care: do physicians and patients agree?
Authors: Sweeny Kate , Shepperd James A. , Han Paul K. J.
Published: July 2011

Background  Communicating bad news serves different goals in health care, and the extent to which physicians and patients agree on the goals of these conversations may influence their process and outcomes. However, we know little about what goals physicians and patients perceive as important and how the perceptions of physicians and patients compare.

Objective  To compare physicians’ and patients’ perceptions of the importance of different communication goals in bad news conversations.

Design  Survey‐based descriptive study.

Participants  Physicians in California recruited via a medical board mailing list (n = 67) and patients (n = 77) recruited via mailing lists and snowball recruitment methods.

Measurements  Physicians reported their experience communicating bad news, the extent to which they strive for various goals in this task and their perceptions of the goals important to patients. Patients reported their experience receiving bad news, the goals important to them and their perceptions of the goals important to physicians.

Main results  Physicians and patients were quite similar in how important they personally rated each goal. However, the two groups perceived differences between their values and the values of the other group.

Conclusions  Physicians and patients have similar perceptions of the importance of various goals of communicating bad news, but inaccurate perceptions of the importance of particular goals to the other party. These findings raise important questions for future research and clinical practice.
Non‐digestible oligosaccharides reduce immunoglobulin free light‐chain concentrations in infants at risk for allergy
Authors: Schouten Bastiaan , Van Esch Betty C. A. M. , Kormelink Tom G. , Moro Guido E. , Arslanoglu Sertac , Boehm Günther , Knippels Léon M. J. , Redegeld Frank A. , Willemsen Linette E. M. , Garssen Johan
Published: July 2011

To cite this article: Schouten B, Van Esch BCAM, Kormelink TG, Moro GE, Arslanoglu S, Boehm G, Knippels LMJ, Redegeld FA, Willemsen LEM, Garssen J. Non‐digestible oligosaccharides reduce immunoglobulin free light‐chain concentrations in infants at risk for allergy. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2011; 22: 537–542.

Prebiotic oligosaccharides influence the intestinal microbiota and can positively modulate the infant’s immune system. It was demonstrated that a special prebiotic mixture (Immunofortis®) of short‐chain galacto‐oligosaccharides (scGOS) and long‐chain fructo‐oligosaccharides (lcFOS) can reduce the cumulative incidence of atopic dermatitis (AD) in infants at risk for allergy as determined using the AD symptom score (SCORAD). Additionally, it was shown very recently that immunoglobulin free light‐chain (Ig‐fLC) might be involved in the pathophysiology of allergic disease. Increased Ig‐fLC concentrations were found in patients suffering from AD, cow’s milk allergy, allergic rhinitis, or asthma. In this study, the effect of supplementation of scGOS/lcFOS on the Ig‐fLC plasma concentrations in infants at risk for allergy was assessed. The plasma kappa and lambda Ig‐fLC concentrations were measured in a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, randomized trial, in which infants at risk for developing allergic disease received a hypoallergenic whey formula containing 8 g/l of the scGOS/lcFOS mixture (n = 34) or maltodextrin as a placebo (n = 40) for 6 months. After intervention, plasma samples were collected, and total plasma concentrations of lambda and kappa Ig‐fLC were analyzed using ELISA. Total kappa and lambda Ig‐fLC plasma concentrations were higher in infants suffering from AD when compared to infants without any sign of AD. In infants receiving the prebiotic mixture, the Ig‐fLC levels were significantly lower compared to the placebo‐fed infants (p < 0.001). Interestingly, lambda Ig‐fLC concentrations were positively correlated with total IgE (p < 0.05). These data demonstrate for the first time that the specific scGOS/lcFOS mixture lowered kappa and lambda Ig‐fLC plasma concentrations in infants at high risk for allergies when compared to infants receiving placebo formula. Because Ig‐fLC concentrations were increased in infants suffering from AD, this may have contributed, at least in part, to the reduced incidence in AD as described previously. This suggests a possible role for Ig‐fLC in the pathophysiology of AD in infants at risk for allergy development.
Ultrasonic Assessment During Pregnancy in Goats – A Review
Authors: Erdogan G
Published: July 2011

Contents

Obstetric ultrasonography is the most common diagnostic approach used in veterinary reproduction because it is a simple, reliable and non‐invasive imaging technique. With advances in ultrasonography of small ruminants, assessment of pregnancy in goats is challenging for accurately managing reproduction. This article presents an up‐to‐date review of the use of ultrasonography in pregnancy for the diagnosis and evaluation of intrauterine foetal growth in goats.
Utility of the RENAL nephrometry scoring system in the real world: predicting surgeon operative preference and complication risk
Authors: Rosevear Henry M. , Gellhaus Paul T. , Lightfoot Andrew J. , Kresowik Timothy P. , Joudi Fadi N. , Tracy Chad R.
Published: July 2011

Study Type – Prognosis (individual cohort)

Level of Evidence 2b

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

RENAL nephrometry is a quantitative, reproducible scoring system that characterizes RENAL masses and standardizes reporting. Previous work has suggested that the system may be useful in predicting outcomes after partial nephrectomy. This study is the first to correlate RENAL nephrometry score with operative approach or risk of complication in patients undergoing either partial or radical nephrectomy.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the utility of the RENAL scoring system in predicting operative approach and risk of complications. The RENAL nephrometry scoring system is designed to allow comparison of renal masses based on the radiological features of (R)adius, (E)xophytic/endophytic, (N)earness to collecting system, (A)nterior/posterior and (L)ocation relative to polar lines.

METHODS

A retrospective review of all patients at a single institution undergoing radical nephrectomy (RN) or partial nephrectomy (PN) for a renal mass between July 2007 and May 2010 was carried out.

Preoperative RENAL score was calculated for each patient. Surgical approach and operative outcomes were then compared with the RENAL score.

RESULTS

In all, 249 patients underwent either RN (158) or PN (91) with average RENAL scores of 8.9 and 6.3, respectively (P < 0.001).

Patients who underwent RN were more likely to have hilar tumours (64% vs 10%, P < 0.001) than patients who underwent PN, but were no more likely to have posteriorly located tumours (50% each).

There were more complications among patients with RN (58%) vs patients with PN (42%, P= 0.02).

RENAL scores were higher in patients with PN who developed complications than in patients with PN who did not develop complications (6.9 vs 6.0, P= 0.02), with no difference noted among patients with RN developing complications (8.9 vs 8.9, P= 0.99).

CONCLUSION

The RENAL system accurately predicted surgeon operative preference and risk of complications for patients undergoing PN.
POLITICAL DISCOURSE AND PATH SHAPING IN PUBLIC POLICY: COMPARING PENSION REFORMS IN GREECE AND ITALY
Authors: TSAROUHAS DIMITRIS
Published: July 2011

Which factors account for successful policy reform and what role does discourse play in the process? This article examines this empirical puzzle with reference to the issue of Greek reform failure. A matched comparison with Italy in the area of pensions reveals the salience of path shaping and the use of political discourse in narrowing down reform options and facilitating change. The Greek case of limited public information, incoherent preparation of the problem, and inner‐circle decision‐making, is contrasted with the Italian government's information‐sharing and consensus‐building campaign for the establishment of a pro‐reformist discourse. Findings confirm the salience of institutional conditions but suggest that pure institutionalist accounts premised on rational choice thinking and the power of veto players should be complemented with more agency‐driven accounts of public policy.