bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Pharmacology of Lysergic Acid Diethylamide: A Review
Authors: Passie Torsten , Halpern John H. , Stichtenoth Dirk O. , Emrich Hinderk M. , Hintzen Annelie
Published: November 2008

Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) was synthesized in 1938 and its psychoactive effects discovered in 1943. It was used during the 1950s and 1960s as an experimental drug in psychiatric research for producing so‐called “experimental psychosis” by altering neurotransmitter system and in psychotherapeutic procedures (“psycholytic” and “psychedelic” therapy). From the mid 1960s, it became an illegal drug of abuse with widespread use that continues today. With the entry of new methods of research and better study oversight, scientific interest in LSD has resumed for brain research and experimental treatments. Due to the lack of any comprehensive review since the 1950s and the widely dispersed experimental literature, the present review focuses on all aspects of the pharmacology and psychopharmacology of LSD. A thorough search of the experimental literature regarding the pharmacology of LSD was performed and the extracted results are given in this review. (Psycho‐) pharmacological research on LSD was extensive and produced nearly 10,000 scientific papers. The pharmacology of LSD is complex and its mechanisms of action are still not completely understood. LSD is physiologically well tolerated and psychological reactions can be controlled in a medically supervised setting, but complications may easily result from uncontrolled use by layman. Actually there is new interest in LSD as an experimental tool for elucidating neural mechanisms of (states of) consciousness and there are recently discovered treatment options with LSD in cluster headache and with the terminally ill.
Osteoporosis in ankylosing spondylitis
Authors: BHARGAVA Pavan , DANDA Debashish
Published: November 2008

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disorder, characterized by an inflammatory enthesopathy progressing to ossification and ankylosis. Osteoporosis is a well‐reported complication of AS. Bone loss begins early in the disease at the spine, and later progresses to the hip. This reduction in bone density leads to an increased risk of fractures. However, there is a lack of awareness regarding this common complication, thus adding to the morbidity associated with AS. Early recognition, appropriate assessment and timely treatment of this complication will help reduce the attendant fracture risk due to decreased bone mass.
Treatment of osteoporosis: facing the challenges in the Asia‐Pacific
Authors: HAQ Syed Atiqul
Published: November 2008

The prevalence of osteoporosis and fractures is projected to increase rapidly in the Asia‐Pacific region in coming decades. At the societal level, healthcare providers will face the challenges of paucity of information, lack of awareness among physicians, resource constraints, lack of organization, absence of policies of cost reimbursement, insufficient representation of the problem in curricula and lack of effective, inexpensive and convenient therapy. Poverty, illiteracy, lack of awareness and interest in future quality of life, and co‐morbidities with seemingly greater importance, will all act as challenges at the level of individual patients. Lack of compliance is a function of lack of awareness and motivation, cost, complexity of administration, side‐effects and absence of immediately perceivable benefit. The challenges may be overcome through systematic collection of data, formation or activation of national osteoporosis planning and coordinating groups, development of national guidelines, programs of education of healthcare providers, patients and the general public, adoption of a population‐based prevention strategy, cost‐effective opportunistic screening using clinical decision rules like the osteoporosis self‐assessment tool for Asians, use of the fracture risk assessment tool for therapeutic decision‐making, giving due emphasis to the problem in curricula and development of mechanisms for cost reimbursement. The Asia‐Pacific League of Associations for Rheumatology may take a lead in stimulating, organizing and coordinating these activities.
Detection of low bone mass using quantitative ultrasound measurements at calcaneus: comparative study of an Indian rheumatoid arthritis cohort
Authors: JAIN Sandeep , RAVINDRAN Vinod , MATHUR Dinesh Swarup
Published: November 2008

Background:  Low bone mass in an Indian population combined with bone loss secondary to rheumatoid arthritis (RA) would predict high prevalence of osteoporosis in Indian patients with RA. We used quantitative ultrasound (QUS) to assess bone mass in RA patients and compared it with healthy controls.

Methods:  One hundred patients with RA and 284 randomly selected healthy controls underwent QUS measurement at the heel. Achilles ultrasonometer was used to measure stiffness index (SI) values and T‐scores.

Results:  Both groups did not differ significantly in proportion of female gender and postmenopausal females. Prevalence of low bone mass in both the healthy population and RA patients was high. Both SI and T‐scores were lower in RA patients and they were significantly reduced in postmenopausal patients; 31% of patients with RA had osteoporosis as compared to 14% of controls. There was no statistically significant correlation between disease duration and T‐scores (r = 0.11, P = 0.26) and disease duration and SI (r = 0.12, P = 0.20).

Conclusion:  Our study has found that both the healthy population and RA patients had lower bone mass compared to Western studies. Prospective studies are required to establish whether this is associated with fractures and to establish factors responsible for these findings.
We are all different: insights from osteoporosis research in Asia
Authors: YEAP Swan Sim
Published: November 2008

Osteoporosis only became a ‘disease’ entity in the 20th century. After the initial observations and definitions of osteoporosis based on Caucasian populations, systematic research in Asian populations started in the 1980s. Significant variations between different ethnic groups with respect to the rate of osteoporotic fractures, bone mineral density and disease risk factors emerged from the data; this article highlights some of the earlier important findings and the dissimilarities. Osteoporosis is therefore not a homogeneous disease across the world.
20th century vegetation changes in an island archipelago, SW Finland
Authors: von Numers Mikael , Korvenpää Turkka
Published: November 2008

We studied the long‐term changes in the flora in the archipelago of SW Finland by comparing historic plant species lists from 331 islands surveyed in the 1930s to 1940s, to lists compiled in 1996–2004. We used plants as indicators to indirectly detect changes in the environment based on changes in species frequencies. Detrended correspondence analysis (DCA) was used to examine if there was a change in species composition during this 60–70 yr period. More species increased in frequency (180, 31.1%) than decreased (77, 13.6%). The number of species occurrences increased by 10.6%. Species of shores, mires, wetlands, and woods increased, while species of shore meadows, pastures, and heaths decreased. For the non‐shore species the interpretation of the DCA and the comparisons of plant indicator values between the old and the new data indicate lower cultural impact, decreased light conditions, a higher level of moisture and nitrogen, and a higher proportion of perennials on the new data islands. The shore plants indicate that productivity has increased over the study period, probably reflecting the eutrophication of the Baltic Sea.
Migration, invasion and decline: changes in recruitment and forest structure in a warming‐linked shift of European beech forest in Catalonia (NE Spain)
Authors: Peñuelas Josep , Ogaya Romà , Boada Martí , S. Jump Alistair
Published: November 2008

Altitudinal upward shifts of species’ ranges have occurred across a wide range of taxonomic groups and geographical locations during the twentieth century in response to current climate warming. However, actual data of plant species’ altitudinal shifts are still scarce and not always clear. Here we provide a more detailed investigation of a previously reported European beech Fagus sylvatica forest altitudinal shift in the Montseny Mountains (Catalonia, NE Spain) now based on field photographic survey and on the population age structure and the recruitment patterns in the high Fagus limit (HFL), the central forest area (CFA) and the low Fagus limit (LFL). Monitoring of the lowest altitudinal range shows that beech forest is being progressively replaced by Mediterranean holm oak forest. Holm oaks are characterized by recruitment rates more than three times higher than those of beech in the LFL in the last decades. The percentage of young individuals in the LFL is only half that in the HFL and CFA. In the highest altitudinal range, present day and early 20th century photographs show that the HFL has gained density and has shifted altitudinally upwards, advancing with establishment of new, vigorous outpost trees (13 individuals per each 100 m of tree‐line). They are mostly (89%) younger than 35 yr old and mostly (97%) located up to 70 m (with a few up to 105 m) ground surface distance above the current tree line (36–51 m altitude) at the highest altitudes (1600–1700 m). The beech forest upward shift is a likely consequence of warming, but land‐use practice changes (cessation of burning by shepherds) have made it possible. These changes in vegetation distribution and population structure constitute a new indication of the complex global change effects on life in mountain ecosystems.
An energy supply network of nutrient absorption coordinated by calcium and T1R taste receptors in rat small intestine
Authors: Mace Oliver J. , Lister Norma , Morgan Emma , Shepherd Emma , Affleck Julie , Helliwell Philip , Bronk John R. , Kellett George L. , Meredith David , Boyd Richard , Pieri Myrtani , Bailey Pat D. , Pettcrew Rachel , Foley David
Published: November 2008

T1R taste receptors are present throughout the gastrointestinal tract. Glucose absorption comprises active absorption via SGLT1 and facilitated absorption via GLUT2 in the apical membrane. Trafficking of apical GLUT2 is rapidly up‐regulated by glucose and artificial sweeteners, which act through T1R2 + T1R3/α‐gustducin to activate PLC β2 and PKC βII. We therefore investigated whether non‐sugar nutrients are regulated by taste receptors using perfused rat jejunumin vivo. Under different conditions, we observed a Ca2+‐dependent reciprocal relationship between the H+/oligopeptide transporter PepT1 and apical GLUT2, reflecting the fact that trafficking of PepT1 and GLUT2 to the apical membrane is inhibited and activated by PKC βII, respectively. Addition ofl‐glutamate or sucralose to a perfusate containing low glucose (20 mm) each activated PKC βII and decreased apical PepT1 levels and absorption of the hydrolysis‐resistant dipeptidel‐Phe(ΨS)‐l‐Ala (1 mm), while increasing apical GLUT2 and glucose absorption within minutes. Switching perfusion from mannitol to glucose (75 mm) exerted similar effects.l‐Glutamate induced rapid GPCR internalization of T1R1, T1R3 and transducin, whereas sucralose internalized T1R2, T1R3 and α‐gustducin. We conclude thatl‐glutamate acts via amino acid and glucose via sweet taste receptors to coordinate regulation of PepT1 and apical GLUT2 reciprocally through a common enterocytic pool of PKC βII. These data suggest the existence of a wider Ca2+and taste receptor‐coordinated transport network incorporating other nutrients and/or other stimuli capable of activating PKC βII and additional transporters, such as the aspartate/glutamate transporter, EAAC1, whose level was doubled byl‐glutamate. The network may control energy supply.
Rate‐sensitive contractile responses of lymphatic vessels to circumferential stretch
Authors: Davis Michael J. , Davis Ann M. , Lane Megan M. , Ku Christine W. , Gashev Anatoliy A.
Published: November 2008

Phasic contractile activity in rat portal vein is more sensitive to the rate of change in length than to absolute length and this response is widely assumed to be a general characteristic of myogenic behaviour for vascular smooth muscle. Previously, we found that rat lymphatic vessels exhibit phasic contractile behaviour similar to that of portal vein. In the present study, we hypothesized that lymphatic muscle would exhibit rate‐sensitive contractile responses to stretch. The hypothesis was tested on rat mesenteric lymphatics (90–220 μm, i.d.) using servo‐controlled wire‐ and pressure‐myograph systems to enable ramp increases in force or pressure at different rates. Under isometric conditions in wire‐myograph preparations, both the amplitude and the frequency of phasic activity were enhanced at more optimal preloads, but superimposed upon this effect were bursts of contractions that occurred only during fast preload ramps. In such cases, the ratio of contraction frequency during the ramp to that at the subsequent plateau (at optimal preload) was > 1. Further, the frequency ratio increased as a function of the preload ramp speed, consistent with a rate‐sensitive mechanism. In contrast, the amplitude ratio was < 1 and declined further with higher ramp speeds. Downward preload ramps produced corresponding rate‐sensitive inhibition of contraction frequency but not amplitude. Similar findings were obtained in pressurized lymphatics in response to pressure ramps and steps. Our results suggest that lymphatics are sensitive to the rate of change in preload/pressure in a way that is different from portal vein, possibly because the pacemaker for generating electrical activity is rate sensitive but lymphatic muscle is not. The behaviour may be widely present in collecting lymphatic vessels and is probably an important mechanism for rapid adaptation of the lymphatic pump to local vascular occlusion.
Roles of axonal sodium channels in precise auditory time coding at nucleus magnocellularis of the chick
Authors: Kuba Hiroshi , Ohmori Harunori
Published: November 2008

How the axonal distribution of Na+ channels affects the precision of spike timing is not well understood. We addressed this question in auditory relay neurons of the avian nucleus magnocellularis. These neurons encode and convey information about the fine structure of sounds to which they are tuned by generating precisely timed action potentials in response to synaptic inputs. Patterns of synaptic inputs differ as a function of tuning. A small number of large inputs innervate high‐ and middle‐frequency neurons, while a large number of small inputs innervate low‐frequency neurons. We found that the distribution and density of Na+ channels in the axon initial segments varied with the synaptic inputs, and were distinct in the low‐frequency neurons. Low‐frequency neurons had a higher density of Na+ channels within a longer axonal stretch, and showed a larger spike amplitude and whole‐cell Na+ current than high/middle‐frequency neurons. Computer simulations revealed that for low‐frequency neurons, a large number of Na+ channels were crucial for preserving spike timing because it overcame Na+ current inactivation and K+ current activation during compound EPSPs evoked by converging small inputs. In contrast, fewer channels were sufficient to generate a spike with high precision in response to an EPSP induced by a single massive input in the high/middle‐frequency neurons. Thus the axonal Na+ channel distribution is effectively coupled with synaptic inputs, allowing these neurons to convey auditory information in the timing of firing.
Field Variable Associations With Scratch Orientation Dependence of UHMWPE Wear: A Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Paul Matthew C. , Glennon Liam P. , Baer Thomas E. , Brown Thomas D.
Published: November 2008

Scratches on the metal bearing surface of metal-on-polyethylene total joint replacements have been found to appreciably accelerate abrasive/adhesive wear of polyethylene, and constitute a source of the considerable variability of wear rate seen within clinical cohorts. Scratch orientation with respect to the local direction of relative surface sliding is presumably a factor affecting instantaneous debris liberation during articulation. A three-dimensional local finite element model was developed, of orientation-specific polyethylene articulation with a scratched metal counterface, to explore continuum-level stress/strain parameters potentially correlating with the orientation dependence of scratch wear in a corresponding physical experiment. Computed maximum stress values exceeded the yield strength of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) for all scratch orientations but did not vary appreciably among scratch orientations. Two continuum-level parameters judged most consistent overall with the direction dependence of experimental wear were (1) cumulative compressive total normal strain in the direction of loading, and (2) maximum instantaneous compressive total normal strain transverse to the sliding direction. Such stress/strain metrics could be useful in global computational models of wear acceleration, as surrogates to incorporate anisotropy of local metal surface roughening.
On Modeling Morphogenesis of the Looping Heart Following Mechanical Perturbations
Authors: Ramasubramanian Ashok , Nerurkar Nandan L. , Achtien Kate H. , Filas Benjamen A. , Voronov Dmitry A. , Taber Larry A.
Published: November 2008

Looping is a crucial early phase during heart development, as the initially straight heart tube (HT) deforms into a curved tube to lay out the basic plan of the mature heart. This paper focuses on the first phase of looping, called c-looping, when the HT bends ventrally and twists dextrally (rightward) to create a c-shaped tube. Previous research has shown that bending is an intrinsic process, while dextral torsion is likely caused by external forces acting on the heart. However, the specific mechanisms that drive and regulate looping are not yet completely understood. Here, we present new experimental data and finite element models to help define these mechanisms for the torsional component of c-looping. First, with regions of growth and contraction specified according to experiments on chick embryos, a three-dimensional model exhibits morphogenetic deformation consistent with observations for normal looping. Next, the model is tested further using experiments in which looping is perturbed by removing structures that exert forces on the heart—a membrane (splanchnopleure (SPL)) that presses against the ventral surface of the heart and the left and right primitive atria. In all cases, the model predicts the correct qualitative behavior. Finally, a two-dimensional model of the HT cross section is used to study a feedback mechanism for stress-based regulation of looping. The model is tested using experiments in which the SPL is removed before, during, and after c-looping. In each simulation, the model predicts the correct response. Hence, these models provide new insight into the mechanical mechanisms that drive and regulate cardiac looping.
The Force Attenuation Provided by Hip Protectors Depends on Impact Velocity, Pelvic Size, and Soft Tissue Stiffness
Authors: Laing Andrew C. , Robinovitch Stephen N.
Published: November 2008

Wearable hip protectors represent a promising strategy for preventing hip fractures. However, there is lack of agreement on biomechanical testing standards and subsequent uncertainty about the ability of hip protectors to attenuate impact force during a fall. To address this issue, we designed a fall impact simulator that incorporated a “biofidelic” surrogate pelvis, which matched the surface geometry and soft tissue stiffness measured in elderly women (n=15). We then used this system to measure the attenuation in peak femoral neck force provided by two commercially available soft shell protectors (Safehip Soft and Hipsaver) and one rigid shell protector (Safehip Classic). Finally, we examined how the force attenuation provided by each protector was influenced by systematic changes in fall severity (impact velocity), body size (pelvis size), and soft tissue stiffness. With the biofidelic pelvis, the force attenuation averaged over all impact velocities was 27% for Safehip Soft, 17% for Safehip Classic, and 19% for Hipsaver. However, the rank order of hip protectors (and especially the performance of Safehip Classic) varied with the test conditions. Safehip Classic attenuated force by 33% during a low velocity (1m∕s) fall, but only by 8% for a high velocity (4m∕s) fall. In the latter condition, improved attenuation was provided by the soft shell hip protectors (19% by Safehip Soft and 21% by Hipsaver). As soft tissue stiffness increased from softest to most rigid, the attenuation provided by Safehip Classic increased 2.9-fold (from 26% to 76%), while Safehip Soft increased 1.7-fold (from 36% to 60%) and Hipsaver increased 1.1-fold (from 36% to 38%). As pelvis size decreased from largest to smallest, the attenuation provided by Safehip Classic increased 8-fold, but for a high velocity fall and moderate tissue stiffness, never exceeded that provided by Safehip Soft and Hipsaver. Our results indicate that, under biofidelic testing conditions, the soft shell hip protectors we examined generally provided greater force attenuation (averaging up to 27%) than the hard shell protector. Measured values of force attenuation were highly sensitive to variations in impact velocity, pelvic size, and pelvic soft tissue stiffness. This indicates the need to develop international testing standards to guide market approval, the selection of protectors for clinical trials, and the design of improved hip protectors.
Teaching Measurement and Uncertainty the GUM Way
Authors: Buffler Andy , Allie Saalih , Lubben Fred
Published: November 2008

This paper describes a course aimed at developing understanding of measurement and uncertainty in the introductory physics laboratory. The course materials, in the form of a student workbook, are based on the probabilistic framework for measurement as recommended by the International Organization for Standardization in their publication Guide to the Expression of Uncertainty in Measurement (GUM).
Which Reaches the Bottom First?
Authors: Solbes Jordi , Tarín Francisco
Published: November 2008

A well-known classroom demonstration involves the rolling of hollow and solid objects down an incline.1 The fact that the objects roll at different rates can be used as a starting point in introducing students to rotational dynamics and rotational kinetic energy. In this paper we describe a simple quantitative version of the demonstration that is suitable for use as a laboratory experiment.
Projectile Motion Demonstration
Authors: Graf Erlend H.
Published: November 2008

For a recent lecture, I went to our apparatus stock room and took out our venerable Sargent-Welch projectile apparatus1 that demonstrates that a dropped ball and a horizontally launched ball hit the floor at the same time, if they are simultaneously released. A problem with this apparatus is that its small size makes it difficult for a large class to see what is going on. Furthermore, the projectiles are ball bearings, which tend to roll under chairs, benches, etc.
Preparation and Stability of Voriconazole Eye Drop Solution
Authors: Dupuis Antoine , Tournier Nicolas , Le Moal Gwenaël , Venisse Nicolas
Published: November 2008

The combined systemic and topical administration of voriconazole has successfully been used to treat keratomycosis. Because no voriconazole eye drop product is commercially available, we prepared a sterile eye drop solution (10 mg/ml). Voriconazole remains stable over 30 days, providing an eye drop solution suitable for use for the topical treatment of fungal keratitis.
Secreted Antibody Is Required for Immunity toPlasmodium berghei
Authors: Nunes Julia K. , Starnbach Michael N. , Wirth Dyann F.
Published: November 2008

Infection withPlasmodium bergheiis lethal to mice, causing high levels of parasitemia, severe anemia, and death. However, when mice are treated with antimalarial drugs during acute infection, they have enhanced immunity to subsequent infections. With this infection and cure model of immunity, we systematically examined the basis of adaptive immunity to infection using immunodeficient mice. In order to induce adaptive immunity, mice were infected with blood-stage parasites. When the mice developed 2 to 3% parasitemia, they were treated with chloroquine to cure the infection. These convalescent mice were then challenged with homologous blood-stage parasites. Immunized wild-type mice were able to control the level of infection. In contrast, mice lacking mature B cells and T cells were unable to control a challenge infection, indicating the critical role of lymphocytes in immunity toP. berghei. Furthermore, mice lacking secreted antibody were unable to control the level of parasitemia following a challenge infection. Our results indicate that secreted antibody is a requirement for immunity toP. berghei.
Chlamydia trachomatisPolymorphic Membrane Protein D Is an Oligomeric Autotransporter with a Higher-Order Structure
Authors: Swanson Kena A. , Taylor Lacey D. , Frank Shaun D. , Sturdevant Gail L. , Fischer Elizabeth R. , Carlson John H. , Whitmire William M. , Caldwell Harlan D.
Published: November 2008

Chlamydia trachomatisis a globally important obligate intracellular bacterial pathogen that is a leading cause of sexually transmitted disease and blinding trachoma. Effective control of these diseases will likely require a preventative vaccine.C. trachomatispolymorphic membrane protein D (PmpD) is an attractive vaccine candidate as it is conserved amongC. trachomatisstrains and is a target of broadly cross-reactive neutralizing antibodies. We show here that immunoaffinity-purified native PmpD exists as an oligomer with a distinct 23-nm flower-like structure. Two-dimensional blue native-sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis analyses showed that the oligomers were composed of full-length PmpD (p155) and two proteolytically processed fragments, the p73 passenger domain (PD) and the p82 translocator domain. We also show that PmpD undergoes an infection-dependent proteolytic processing step late in the growth cycle that yields a soluble extended PD (p111) that was processed into a p73 PD and a novel p30 fragment. Interestingly, soluble PmpD peptides possess putative eukaryote-interacting functional motifs, implying potential secondary functions within or distal to infected cells. Collectively, our findings show that PmpD exists as two distinct forms, a surface-associated oligomer exhibiting a higher-order flower-like structure and a soluble form restricted to infected cells. We hypothesize that PmpD is a multifunctional virulence factor important in chlamydial pathogenesis and could represent novel vaccine or drug targets for the control of human chlamydial infections.
Prevention and Reduction of Obesity through Active Living (PROACTIVE): rationale, design and methods
Authors: Ross R , Blair S N , Godwin M , Hotz S , Katzmarzyk P T , Lam M , Lévesque L , MacDonald S
Published: November 2008

The Prevention and Reduction of Obesity through Active Living (PROACTIVE) is a randomised controlled trial to evaluate the effectiveness of a behaviourally based physical activity and diet composition programme to prevent and reduce obesity and related comorbidities in a primary healthcare setting. 491 abdominally obese men and women 25–75 years of age who were patients of primary care physicians were randomly assigned to either a usual care group (N  =  242) or a behavioural intervention group (N  =  249). Those in usual care received general advice from the physician regarding the merits of physical activity and a healthy diet as a strategy for obesity reduction. Those in the behavioural intervention group received an individually designed counselling programme from a specially trained health educator, with respect to physical activity, diet and obesity reduction. The study was designed to provide 95% power in both men and women to detect a 2% (2 cm) difference in waist circumference and 80% power to identify a 15% reduction in the prevalence of the metabolic syndrome, the two primary outcomes. PROACTIVE is the first behavioural intervention study to assess the effects of physical activity and diet on abdominal obesity and associated metabolic risk factors in a primary healthcare setting, include a generalised sample of men and women and examine long-term (24 months) effects. PROACTIVE has the potential to provide the basis for changing clinical practice (primary care) with respect to the prevention and reduction of obesity and related health risks. The purpose of this report is to present and discuss the rationale, design and methods of PROACTIVE.
DYNAMIC STRUCTURE FUNCTION OF QUANTUM BOSE SYSTEMS: CONDENSATE FRACTION AND MOMENTUM DISTRIBUTION
Authors: SAARELA M. , MAZZANTI F. , APAJA V.
Published: November 2008

We present results on the behavior of the dynamic structure function in the short wave length limit using the equation of motion method. Within this framework we study the linear response of a quantum system to an infinitesimal external perturbation by direct minimization of the action integral. As a result we get a set of coupled continuity equations which define the self-energy. We evaluate the self-energy and the dynamic structure function in the short wavelength limit and show that sum rules up to the third moment are fulfilled. This implies, for instance, that the self-energy at short wavelengths and zero frequency is proportional to the kinetic energy per particle. An essential feature in this derivation is that the short range behavior of the two-particle distribution and the long wavelength phonon induced scattering are exactly satisfied. We calculate the condensate fraction and show that our results agree very well with the Monte Carlo simulations.
HELIUM IN PORES AND IRREGULAR SURFACES
Authors: HERNÁNDEZ E. S. , HERNANDO A. , MAYOL R. , PI M.
Published: November 2008

We report studies of adsorption of helium in translationally invariant polygonal pores at zero temperature, with emphasis on the route to capillary condensation and the appearance of metastable states. We analyze hysteresis and hysterectic-like phenomena associated to the existence of multiple equilibrium states in a rhombic pore and examine the effects of the angular geometry, as opposed to the smooth curvature of cylindrical tubes.
INTRIGUING ROLE OF HOLE-COOPER-PAIRS IN SUPERCONDUCTORS AND SUPERFLUIDS
Authors: GRETHER M. , de LLANO M. , RAMÍREZ S. , ROJO O.
Published: November 2008

The role in superconductors of hole-Cooper-pairs (CPs) are examined and contrasted with the more familiar electron-CPs, with special emphasis on their “background” effect in enhancing superconducting transition temperatures Tc — even when electron-CPs drive the transition. Both kinds of CPs are, of course, present at all temperatures. An analogy is drawn between the hole CPs in any many-fermion system with the antibosons in a relativistic ideal Bose gas that appear in substantial numbers only at higher and higher temperatures. Their indispensable role in yielding a lower Helmholtz free energy equilibrium state is established. For superconductors, the problem is viewed in terms of a generalized Bose-Einstein condensation (GBEC) theory that is an extension of the Friedberg-T.D. Lee 1989 boson-fermion BEC theory of high-Tc superconductors in that the GBEC theory includes hole CPs as well as electron-CPs — thereby containing as well as further extending BCS theory to higher temperatures with the same weak-coupling electron-phonon interaction parameters. We show that the Helmholtz free energy of both 2e- and 2h-CP pure condensates has a positive second derivative, and are thus stable equilibrium states. Finally, it is conjectured that the role of hole pairs in ultra-cold fermionic atom gases will likely be negligible because the very low densities involved imply a “shallow” Fermi sea.
SUPERFLUID TO BOSE METAL TRANSITION IN SYSTEMS WITH RESONANT PAIRING
Authors: RANNINGER JULIUS
Published: November 2008

Experiments in thin films whose thickness can be modified and by this way induce a superconductor to insulator transition, seem to suggest that in the quantum critical regime of this phase transition there might be a Bose metal, i.e., uncondensed bosonic carriers with a finite dissipation. This poses a fundamental problem as to our understanding of how such a state could be justified. On the basis of a simple Boson-Fermion model, where bosonic and fermionic degrees of freedom are strongly inter-related via a Boson-Fermion pair exchange coupling g, we illustrate how such a bosonic metal phase could possibly come about. We show that, as we approach the quantum critical point at some critical gc from the superfluid side, the superfluid phase locking is sustained only for longer and longer spatial scales. On a finite spatial scale, the boson have a quasi-free itinerant behavior with metallic features. At the quantum critical point the systems exhibits a phase separation which shows a ressemblance to that of a He 3– He 4 mixture. This could be the clue to the apparent dilemma of a Bose metal at zero temperature.
DC RESISTIVITY OF CHARGED COOPER PAIRS IN A SIMPLE BOSON-FERMION MODEL OF SUPERCONDUCTORS
Authors: MAMEDOV T. A. , DE LLANO M.
Published: November 2008

An analytic expression for the contribution σB(λ, T) to the conductivity from charged bosonic Cooper pairs (CPs) is derived via two-time Green function techniques as a function of the BCS interelectron interaction model parameter λ and temperature T. Within the framework of a binary boson-fermion gas mixture model, it is shown that a self-consistent description of the resistivity data observed in high-temperature superconductors is possible only by assuming the presence of a finite gap between the energy spectra of free fermions and bosonic CPs.
MAGNETORESISTANCE IN COPPER
Authors: FUJITA SHIGEJI , DEMEZ NEBI , KIM JEONG-HYUK , HO H. C.
Published: November 2008

The motion of the guiding center of magnetic circulation generates a charge transport. By applying kinetic theory to the guiding center motion, an expression for the magnetoconductivity σ is obtained: σ = e2ncτ/M*, where M* is the magnetotransport mass distinct from the cyclotron mass, nc the density of the conduction electrons, and τ the relaxation time. The density nc depends on the magnetic field direction relative to copper's fcc lattice, when Cu's Fermi surface is nonspherical with “necks”. The anisotropic magnetoresistance is analyzed based on a one-parameter model, and compared with experiments. A good fit is obtained.
A NEW LOOK AT SUPER HEAVY NUCLEI
Authors: ANAGNOSTATOS G. S.
Published: November 2008

A new look at super heavy nuclei is attempted by employing the Isomorphic shell Model or, in different wording, the Multiharmonic Shell Model. After 208 Pb the same magic numbers, like the conventional Shell Model, are predicted, i.e., at Z = 126 and N = 184. Good results for charge radii and binding energies for a sample of nuclei are also presented.
ASYMMETRIC NUCLEAR MATTER: A VARIATIONAL APPROACH
Authors: SARANGI S. , PANDA P. K. , SAHU S. K. , MAHARANA L.
Published: November 2008

We discuss here a self-consistent method to calculate the properties of the cold asymmetric nuclear matter. In this model, the nuclear matter is dressed with s-wave pion pairs and the nucleon-nucleon (N-N) interaction is mediated by these pion pairs, ω and ρ mesons. The parameters of these interactions are calculated self-consistently to obtain the saturation properties like equilibrium binding energy, pressure, compressibility and symmetry energy. The computed equation of state is then used in the Tolman-Oppenheimer-Volkoff (TOV) equation to study the mass and radius of a neutron star in the pure neutron matter limit.
FERROMAGNETISM IN DOPED SEMICONDUCTORS WITHOUT MAGNETIC IONS
Authors: BHATT R. N. , NIELSEN ERIK
Published: November 2008

While ferromagnetism has been obtained above 100 K in doped semiconductors with magnetic ions such as Ga 1−x Mn x As , bulk doped semiconductors in the absence of magnetic ions have shown no tendency towards ferromagnetism. We re-examine the nonmagnetic doped semiconductor system at low carrier densities in terms of a generalized Hubbard model. Using exact diagonalization of the many-body Hamiltonian for finite clusters, we find that the system exhibits significant ferromagnetic tendencies at nanoscales, in a region of parameter space not accessible to bulk systems, but achievable in quantum dots and heterostructures. Implications for studying these effects in experimentally realizable systems, as well as the possibility of true (macroscopic) ferromagnetism in these systems is discussed.
ON THE N-REPRESENTABILITY AND UNIVERSALITY OF F[ρ] IN THE HOHENBERG-KOHN-SHAM VERSION OF DENSITY FUNCTIONAL THEORY
Authors: LUDEÑA EDUARDO V. , ILLAS FRANCESC , RAMIREZ-SOLIS ALEJANDRO
Published: November 2008

We discuss two basic problems in the Hohenberg-Kohn-Sham version of density functional theory, HKS-DFT: the first, the N-representability of the functional F[ρ] and, the second, the universality of F[ρ]. In relation to the first, we show that F[ρ] must satisfy N-representability conditions that follow from those on the 2-matrix D2(r1, r2; r′, r′2). In the case of the second, we provide arguments based on the equivalence between ab initio DFT and HKS-DFT to show that the functional F[ρ] is not universal.
ON TIME DEPENDENT DFT WITH SIC
Authors: MESSUD J. , DINH P. M. , SURAUD E. , REINHARD P.-G.
Published: November 2008

We discuss an extension of time dependent density functional theory by a self-interaction correction (SIC). A strictly variational formulation is given taking care of the necessary constraints. A manageable and transparent propagation scheme using two sets of wave-functions is proposed and applied to laser excitation with subsequent ionization of a dimer molecule.
Charmed
Authors: Sade Gavin
Published: November 2008

This article provides an introduction toCharmed, a tangible interactive media artwork that explores aspects of daily life in urban environments. The article discusses the conceptual, aesthetic, and technical dimensions of the work, our creative intentions, and the production process. The design and development ofCharmedposed many challenges, which will also be addressed in this article, before concluding with discussion and reflections that took place after the first exhibition of the work at Experimenta Playground: International Biennale of Media Arts, Melbourne, Australia in 2007.
Design space of networked exertion games demonstrated by a three-way physical game based on Table Tennis
Authors: Mueller Florian (“Floyd”) , Gibbs Martin , Vetere Frank , Agamanolis Stefan
Published: November 2008

Physical leisure games can be beneficial to physical as well as mental health and offer a means to connect with others socially. However, players have to be in the same physical location to play. Recent trends in the gaming industry and research labs have started to embrace exertion games: physical games that are expected to be exhausting because they require intense physical effort. However, there is still a lack of a design space that can guide in evaluating such exertion games, help designers in creating future games by maximizing their potential, and inspire new directions in this domain. We present such a design space for exertion games, based on the characteristics of traditional physical games but extended to support distributed interactions. Our motivation is based on the belief that the physicality found in traditional leisure games contributes to facilitating social bonds. We used this design space to develop a networked table tennis-like game called “Table Tennis for Three.” It is played with a real paddle and ball and augmented with a large-scale video-conference. Our prototype shows how the application of the design space can leverage the potential for novel exertion gaming experiences such as supporting three players in three geographically distant locations. An evaluation with 41 participants indicated a successful application of some of the ingredients of the networked exertion games “cocktail”; however, some participants did not enjoy the game, and we present informed interpretations to explain their reactions. With this work we aim to provide other researchers and designers with a practical design space of the main components that can create a networked exertion game, and hence inspire and guide them in designing and evaluating future networked exertion games.
Towards consistency in interactive storytelling
Authors: Barros Leandro Motta , Musse Soraia Raupp
Published: November 2008

Interactive storytelling (IS) systems are an emerging class of interactive entertainment applications with an emphasis on narrative aspects. One of the approaches used to develop IS applications is based on planning algorithms. This article describes two mechanisms that can be introduced to planning-based IS in order to solve two problems that are inherent in this approach. The first is a technique to control the pace at which a story evolves, so that the story that is generated follows a specific tension arc. The second is a method that makes it possible to avoid dead-ends in a story by intervening to justify previous events. These mechanisms help to produce a more enjoyable user experience, since their use tends to result in stories with higher narrative consistency. Results from experiments with users suggest that the proposed mechanisms improve both of the aspects addressed by this article.
Domain-specific languages and program generation with meta-AspectJ
Authors: Huang Shan Shan , Zook David , Smaragdakis Yannis
Published: November 2008

Meta-AspectJ (MAJ) is a language for generating AspectJ programs using code templates. MAJ itself is an extension of Java, so users can interleave arbitrary Java code with AspectJ code templates. MAJ is a structured metaprogramming tool: a well-typed generator implies a syntactically correct generated program. MAJ promotes a methodology that combines aspect-oriented and generative programming. A valuable application is in implementing small domain-specific language extensions as generators using unobtrusive annotations for syntax extension and AspectJ as a back-end. The advantages of this approach are twofold. First, the generator integrates into an existing software application much as a regular API or library, instead of as a language extension. Second, a mature language implementation is easy to achieve with little effort since AspectJ takes care of the low-level issues of interfacing with the base Java language.

In addition to its practical value, MAJ offers valuable insights to metaprogramming tool designers. It is a mature metaprogramming tool for AspectJ (and, by extension, Java): a lot of emphasis has been placed on context-sensitive parsing and error reporting. As a result, MAJ minimizes the number of metaprogramming (quote/unquote) operators and uses type inference to reduce the need to remember type names for syntactic entities.
Equation-Free Multiscale Computation: Algorithms and Applications
Authors: Kevrekidis Ioannis G. , Samaey Giovanni
Published: November 2008

In traditional physicochemical modeling, one derives evolution equations at the (macroscopic, coarse) scale of interest; these are used to perform a variety of tasks (simulation, bifurcation analysis, optimization) using an arsenal of analytical and numerical techniques. For many complex systems, however, although one observes evolution at a macroscopic scale of interest, accurate models are only given at a more detailed (fine-scale, microscopic) level of description (e.g., lattice Boltzmann, kinetic Monte Carlo, molecular dynamics). Here, we review a framework for computer-aided multiscale analysis, which enables macroscopic computational tasks (over extended spatiotemporal scales) using only appropriately initialized microscopic simulation on short time and length scales. The methodology bypasses the derivation of macroscopic evolution equations when these equations conceptually exist but are not available in closed form—hence the term equation-free. We selectively discuss basic algorithms and underlying principles and illustrate the approach through representative applications. We also discuss potential difficulties and outline areas for future research.
Wave-Packet and Coherent Control Dynamics
Authors: Ohmori Kenji
Published: November 2008

This review summarizes progress in coherent control as well as relevant recent achievements, highlighting, among several different schemes of coherent control, wave-packet interferometry (WPI). WPI is a fundamental and versatile scenario used to control a variety of quantum systems with a sequence of short laser pulses whose relative phase is finely adjusted to control the interference of electronic or nuclear wave packets (WPs). It is also useful in retrieving quantum information such as the amplitudes and phases of eigenfunctions superposed to generate a WP. Experimental and theoretical efforts to retrieve both the amplitude and phase information are recounted. This review also discusses information processing based on the eigenfunctions of atoms and molecules as one of the modern and future applications of coherent control. The ultrafast coherent control of ultracold atoms and molecules and the coherent control of complex systems are briefly discussed as future perspectives.
Changes in global gene expression in rat myometrium in transition from late pregnancy to parturition
Authors: Helguera Gustavo , Eghbali Mansoureh , Sforza Daniel , Minosyan Tamara Y. , Toro Ligia , Stefani Enrico
Published: November 2008

The process of parturition involves the complex interplay of factors that change the excitability and contractile activity of the uterus. We have compared the relative gene expression profile of myometrium from rats before parturition (21 days pregnant) and during delivery, using high-density DNA microarray. Of 8,740 sequences available in the array, a total of 3,782 were detected as present. From the sequences that were significantly altered, 59 genes were upregulated and 82 genes were downregulated. We were able to detect changes in genes described to have altered expression level at term, including connexin 43 and 26, cyclooxygenase 2, and oxytocin receptor, as well as novel genes that have been not previously associated with parturition. Quantitative real-time PCR on selected genes further confirmed the microarray data. Here we report for the first time that aquaporin5 (AQP5), a member of the aquaporin water channel family, was dramatically downregulated during parturition (∼100-fold by microarray and ∼50-fold by real-time PCR). The emerging profile highlights biochemical cascades occurring in a period of ∼36 h that trigger parturition and the initiation of myometrium reverse remodeling postpartum. The microarray analysis uncovered genes that were previously suspected to play a role in parturition. This regulation involves genes from immune/inflammatory response, steroid/lipid metabolism, calcium homeostasis, cell volume regulation, cell signaling, cell division, and tissue remodeling, suggesting the presence of multiple and redundant mechanisms altered in the process of birth.