bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Will More Purchasing Options Benefit Customers?
Authors: Elmaghraby Wedad , Lippman Steven A. , Tang Christopher S. , Yin Rui
Published: March 2009

This paper considers the sale of a seasonal product in the face of strategic customers. At the beginning of the selling season, the retailer announces both the price p h at which the product will be sold during the selling season and the post‐season clearance price p< p h for unsold items. We analyze two operating regimes: The “no reservation regime” allows a buyer either to purchase the product at price p h when he arrives or to enter a lottery to purchase at price p if the product remains unsold. The “reservation regime” offers each buyer one extra option than the no reservation regime: reserve the product for purchase at the clearance price p. If the buyer reserves the product under the reservation regime and if it remains unsold at the end of the selling season, then he is obligated to purchase it at price p. We consider a situation in which heterogeneous customers with probabilistic valuation arrive in accord with a Poisson process. We characterize the rational purchasing behavior wherein each arriving customer is strategic; each customer takes other customers' purchasing behavior into consideration. By considering the Nash equilibrium of this game, we show that strategic customer behavior can render the customer to be worse off and the retailer to be better off under the reservation regime, despite the fact that this regime offers one extra option (reservation) to a customer. Hence, more purchasing options do not necessarily benefit customers.
Bronchoalveolar lavage cytology from captive badgers
Authors: McCarthy Grainne , Shiel Robert , O'Rourke Laurie , Murphy Denise , Corner Leigh , Costello Eamon , Gormley Eamonn
Published: March 2009

Background:Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid is evaluated for the diagnosis and study of lung disease and airway inflammation. Cytologic profiles for BAL fluid have not been reported for badgers and may be useful in understanding the pathogenesis of pulmonary diseases such asMycobacterium bovis.

Objective:The aim of this study was to evaluate cytologic and microbial findings in BAL fluid from captive European badgers (Meles meles) and identify correlates with the results of concurrently collected blood and fecal samples.

Methods:BAL fluid (by a nonbronchoscopic method) and jugular venous blood samples (for routine CBC) were obtained from 23 captive tuberculosis‐free anesthetized badgers on 2 occasions 4 weeks apart. Fecal samples were collected for routine parasitology. Morphologic evaluation and 100‐cell differentials were done on cytocentrifuged BAL specimens. Pellets from centrifuged BAL were aerobically cultured for bacteria.

Results:With the 2 BAL samples from each of the 23 badgers combined, the median (range) cell percentages were 73.0% (5–95%) neutrophils, 7.5% (2–16%) macrophages, 8.0% (0–27%) lymphocytes, and 9.5% (0–92%) eosinophils. Macrophages frequently contained silica‐like crystals. Other findings included ciliated epithelial cells, goblet cells, mucus, andAelurostrongylussp. larvae. A light growth ofStreptococcus, Pasteurella, orEscherichia coliwas cultured in 6 badgers.Trypanosoma pestanaiwere identified in blood from 10 badgers and fecal parasites (mainly coccidia) were found in 20 badgers. No correlation was found between BAL and CBC results and the presence of parasites.

Conclusions:The predominance of neutrophils in BAL fluid from badgers differs from the predominance of macrophages found in BAL from other species. This difference may reflect the burrowing lifestyle or the unique immune response of badgers.
What is your diagnosis? Peritoneal effusion from a dog
Authors: Dell'Orco Marta , Bertazzolo Walter , Paccioretti Filippo
Published: March 2009

Abstract: A 5‐year‐old, female Italian hound dog was presented with progressive weight loss, anorexia, and lethargy. Physical examination abnormalities included poor body condition, abdominal distension, splenomegaly, and areas of crusty alopecia on the head and limbs. Clinicopathologic abnormalities included mild normocytic normochromic anemia, moderate hyperproteinemia and hyperglobulinemia, mild hypoalbuminemia, and hyponatremia, a mild increase in serum alkaline phosphatase activity, and a moderate to marked increase in β‐ and γ‐globulins on serum protein electrophoresis. Abdominal ultrasonography revealed peritoneal effusion. Abdominocentesis yielded ∼200 mL of serosanguinous, slightly turbid fluid with 2.6 × 109 nucleated cells/L, and a protein concentration of 32 g/L. Cytologic specimens of the fluid contained a mixed population of inflammatory cells. Intracytoplasmic inclusions identified as Leishmania sp. amastigotes were observed in numerous macrophages and also free in the background. An ELISA for canine Leishmania sp. antibody was positive. The abdominal effusion resolved within a few days of beginning treatment with meglumine antimoniate and allopurinol. Finding Leishmania amastigotes in peritoneal fluid is rare in canine leishmaniasias and allows an easy, quick diagnosis of the disease.
Breed‐associated variability in serum biochemical analytes in four large‐breed dogs
Authors: Sharkey Leslie , Gjevre Karen , Hegstad‐Davies Rebecca , Torres Sheila , Muñoz‐Zanzi Claudia
Published: March 2009

Background:Genetic background can influence the expected values of hematologic and serum biochemical analytes in domestic animal species.

Objective:The purpose of this study was to determine if there are breed‐related differences in serum biochemical variables in healthy purebred dogs of 4 breeds and to develop appropriate reference intervals.

Methods:Alaskan Malamutes (n=59), Siberian Huskies (n=78), Golden Retrievers (n=90), and English Setters (n=77) were included in the study. The dogs had a median age of 42 months (range 10–112 months) and each breed included a mix of intact and neutered dogs of both sexes. Serum biochemical profiles (Olympus AU400e) were performed along with physical examinations, CBCs, and urinalyses to ensure dogs were clinically healthy. Differences in the values of biochemical analytes were assessed nonparametrically and reference intervals for all breeds combined were calculated as the central 95% percentile.

Results:Significant differences were observed between breeds for all serum biochemical analytes except alkaline phosphatase, glucose, and chloride. The analyte ranges had a large degree of overlap between the different breeds.

Conclusions:Although many statistically significant breed‐related differences in serum biochemical values were observed, the differences were small and unlikely to have clinical relevance or impact medical decision making.
Thrombocyte morphology and morphometric observations in two vulture species
Authors: Du Plessis Lizette , Van Wilpe Erna
Published: March 2009

Background: The important role of thrombocytes in hemostasis is well documented, but little information is available on the thrombocyte morphology of avian species, including vultures.

Objective: The objective of this study was to describe and compare the morphology and morphometric parameters of thrombocytes in 2 vulture species.

Methods: Blood samples were collected into tubes containing acid‐citrate‐dextrose from 5 Cape vultures (Gyps coprotheres) and 6 white‐backed vultures (Gyps africanus) at the De Wildt Breeding Center, Northwest Province, South Africa. Wright's‐stained blood smears were examined by light microscopy. Samples were processed and examined by scanning and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) using standard techniques. Morphometric parameters (perimeter, area, minimum and maximum diameter, and aspect ratio) were measured on 140 thrombocytes using imaging software.

Results: Thrombocytes were predominantly oval to elliptical, with few pseudopodia. The nucleus was the most prominent feature of the cells. Large vacuoles were visible in the cytoplasm by both light and TEM. Ultrastructurally, microtubules and dense bodies were seen in most cells. Other cytoplasmic organelles seen by electron microscopy included mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, a surface connecting canalicular system, Golgi complex, lipid droplets, and glycogen. Thrombocytes of Cape vultures had a significantly (P=.005) higher aspect ratio compared with white‐backed vultures. Thrombocyte estimates in blood smears were similar in both species, with a combined mean of 31.6 × 109/L.

Conclusion: The morphologic features of thrombocytes in southern African vultures are similar in most ways to those of other avian species. Although thrombocytes in white‐backed vultures were slightly more spherical than those of Cape vultures, no other significant differences were found between the 2 species.
When Doors of Perception Close: Bottom-up Models of Disrupted Cognition in Schizophrenia
Authors: Javitt Daniel C.
Published: March 2009

Schizophrenia is a major mental disorder that affects approximately 1% of the population worldwide. Cognitive deficits are a key feature of schizophrenia and a primary cause of long-term disability. Current neurophysiological models of schizophrenia focus on distributed brain dysfunction with bottom-up as well as top-down components. Bottom-up deficits in cognitive processing are driven by impairments in basic perceptual processes that localize to primary sensory brain regions. Within the auditory system, deficits are apparent in elemental sensory processing, such as tone matching following brief delay. Such deficits lead to impairments in higher-order processes such as phonological processing and auditory emotion recognition. Within the visual system, deficits are apparent in functioning of the magnocellular visual pathway, leading to higher-order deficits in processes such as perceptual closure, object recognition, and reading. In both auditory and visual systems, patterns of deficit are consistent with underlying impairment of brain N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor systems.
Characterization of mouse alveolar epithelial cell monolayers
Authors: DeMaio Lucas , Tseng Wanru , Balverde Zerlinde , Alvarez Juan R. , Kim Kwang-Jin , Kelley Diane G. , Senior Robert M. , Crandall Edward D. , Borok Zea
Published: March 2009

We investigated the influence of extracellular matrix on transport properties of mouse alveolar epithelial cell (AEC) monolayers (MAECM) and transdifferentiation of isolated mouse alveolar epithelial type II (AT2) cells into an alveolar epithelial type I (AT1) cell-like phenotype. Primary mouse AT2 cells plated on laminin 5-coated polycarbonate filters formed monolayers with transepithelial resistance ( RT) and equivalent short-circuit current ( IEQ) of 1.8 kΩ·cm2 and 5.3 μA/cm2, respectively, after 8 days in culture. Amiloride (10 μM), ouabain (0.1 mM), and pimozide (10 μM) decreased MAECM IEQ to 40%, 10%, and 65% of its initial value, respectively. Sequential addition of pimozide and amiloride, in either order, revealed that their inhibitory effects are additive, suggesting that cyclic nucleotide-gated channels contribute to amiloride-insensitive active ion transport across MAECM. Ussing chamber measurements of unidirectional ion fluxes across MAECM under short-circuit conditions indicated that net absorption of Na+ in the apical-to-basolateral direction is comparable to net ion flux calculated from the observed short-circuit current: 0.38 and 0.33 μeq·cm−2·h−1, respectively. Between days 1 and 9 in culture, AEC demonstrated increased expression of aquaporin-5 protein, an AT1 cell marker, and decreased expression of pro-surfactant protein-C protein, an AT2 cell marker, consistent with transition to an AT1 cell-like phenotype. These results demonstrate that AT1 cell-like MAECM grown on laminin 5-coated polycarbonate filters exhibit active and passive transport properties that likely reflect the properties of intact mouse alveolar epithelium. This mouse in vitro model will enhance the study of AEC derived from mutant strains of mice and help define important structure-function correlations.
Radiologic Evaluation of Small Renal Masses (I): Pretreatment Management
Authors: Marhuenda A. , Martín M. I. , Deltoro C. , Santos J. , Rubio Briones Jose
Published: March 2009

When characterizing a small renal mass (SRM), the main question to be answered is whether the mass represents a surgical or nonsurgical lesion or, in some cases, if followup studies are a reasonable option. Is this a task for a urologist or a radiologist? It is obvious that in the increasing clinical scenario where this decision has to be made, both specialists ought to work together. This paper will focus on the principles, indications, and limitations of ultrasound, CT, and MRI to characterize an SRM in 2008 with a detailed review of relevant literature. Special emphasis has been placed on aspects regarding the bidirectional information between radiologists and urologists needed to achieve the best radiological approach to an SRM.
The Synchronized Peer‐to‐Peer Framework and Distributed Contention‐Free Medium Access for Multihop Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Khayyat Ahmad , Safwat Ahmed
Published: March 2009

IEEE 802.15.4 is a low‐power, low‐rate MAC/PHY standard
that meets most of the stringent requirements of singlehop
wireless sensor networks. Sensor networks with nodal
populations composed of thousands of devices have been envisioned
in conjunction with environmental, vehicular, military
applications, and many others. However, such large sensor
network deployments necessitate multihop support as well
as low power consumption. In the light of the standard′s
extremely limited joint support of the two aforementioned
attributes, this paper presents two essential contributions. First,
a framework is proposed to implement a new IEEE 802.15.4
operating mode, namely, the synchronized peer-to-peer mode.
This mode is designed to enable the standard′s low‐power
features in peer‐to‐peer multihop‐ready topologies. The second
contribution is a distributed GTS (dGTS) management scheme
designed to function in the newly devised network mode. This
protocol provides reliable contention‐free access in peer‐to‐peer
topologies in a completely distributed manner. Assuming
optimal routing, our simulation experiments reveal perfect
delivery ratios as long as the traffic load does not reach or
surpass its saturation threshold. dGTS sustains at least twice
the delivery ratio of contention‐based access under suboptimal
dynamic routing. Moreover, the dGTS scheme exhibits minimum
power consumption by eliminating the retransmissions
attributed to contention, which, in turn, reduces the number of
transmissions to a minimum.
Thermodynamics in Loop Quantum Cosmology
Authors: Li Li-Fang , Zhu Jian-Yang
Published: March 2009

Loop quantum cosmology (LQC) is very powerful to deal with the
behavior of early universe. Moreover, the
effective loop quantum cosmology gives a successful description of
the universe in the semiclassical region. We consider the apparent
horizon of the Friedmann‐Robertson‐Walker universe as a
thermodynamical system and investigate the thermodynamics of LQC
in the semiclassical region. The effective density and effective
pressure in the modified Friedmann equation from LQC not only
determine the evolution of the universe in LQC scenario but
also are actually found to be the thermodynamic
quantities. This result comes from the energy definition in
cosmology (the Misner‐Sharp gravitational energy) and is
consistent with thermodynamic laws. We prove that within the
framework of loop quantum cosmology, the elementary equation of
equilibrium thermodynamics is still valid.
David and the Messenger—Different Ends, Similar Means in 2 Samuel 1
Authors: Galpaz-Feller Pnina
Published: March 2009

There are three stories in the Bible where a messenger appears and reports the disasterous results of a battle: 1 Samuel 4:12-17; 2 Samuel 1:1-16; 18:19-32. This article discusses the story of David and the Amalekite in 2 Samuel 1:1-16, and compares it to the story in 1 Samuel 4:12-17. The article tries to show that the Amalekite's report to David creates a complex situation that highlights their different motives through their clothing and their words. The result is a reversal in the balance of power between the Amalekite messenger and David.
Transcription factor Zfx controls BCR-induced proliferation and survival of B lymphocytes
Authors: Arenzana Teresita L. , Smith-Raska Matthew R. , Reizis Boris
Published: March 2009

The development, homeostasis, and function of B lymphocytes involve multiple rounds of B-cell receptor (BCR)–controlled proliferation and prolonged maintenance. We analyzed the role of transcription factor Zfx, a recently identified regulator of hematopoietic stem cell maintenance, in B-cell development and homeostasis. Panhematopoietic or B cell–specific deletion of Zfx in the bone marrow blocked B-cell development at the pre-BCR selection checkpoint. Zfx deficiency in peripheral B cells caused accelerated B-cell turnover, depletion of mature recirculating B cells, and delayed T-dependent antibody responses. In addition, the numbers and function of B-1 cell lineage were reduced. Zfx-deficient B cells showed normal proximal BCR signaling, but impaired BCR-induced proliferation and survival in vitro. This was accompanied by aberrantly enhanced and prolonged integrated stress response and by delayed induction of cyclin D2 and Bcl-xL proteins. Thus, Zfx restrains the stress response and couples antigen receptor signaling to cell expansion and maintenance during B-cell development and peripheral homeostasis. These results identify a novel transcriptional regulator of the B-cell lineage and highlight the common genetic control of stem cell maintenance and lymphocyte homeostasis.
AC133+ progenitor cells as gene delivery vehicle and cellular probe in subcutaneous tumor models: a preliminary study
Authors: Rad Ali M , Iskander ASM , Janic Branislava , Knight Robert A , Arbab Ali S , Soltanian-Zadeh Hamid
Published: March 2009

Background

Despite enormous progress in gene therapy for breast cancer, an optimal systemic vehicle for delivering gene products to the target tissue is still lacking. The purpose of this study was to determine whether AC133+ progenitor cells (APC) can be used as both gene delivery vehicles and cellular probes for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In this study, we used superparamagentic iron oxide (SPIO)-labeled APCs to carry the human sodium iodide symporter (hNIS) gene to the sites of implanted breast cancer in mouse model. In vivo real time tracking of these cells was performed by MRI and expression of hNIS was determined by Tc-99m pertechnetate (Tc-99m) scan.

Results

Three million human breast cancer (MDA-MB-231) cells were subcutaneously implanted in the right flank of nude mice. APCs, isolated from fresh human cord blood, were genetically transformed to carry the hNIS gene using adenoviral vectors and magnetically labeled with ferumoxides-protamine sulfate (FePro) complexes. Magnetically labeled genetically transformed cells were administered intravenously in tumor bearing mice when tumors reached 0.5 cm in the largest dimension. MRI and single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) images were acquired 3 and 7 days after cell injection, with a 7 Tesla animal MRI system and a custom built micro-SPECT using Tc-99m, respectively. Expression of hNIS in accumulated cells was determined by staining with anti-hNIS antibody. APCs were efficiently labeled with ferumoxide-protamine sulfate (FePro) complexes and transduced with hNIS gene. Our study showed not only the accumulation of intravenously administered genetically transformed, magnetically labeled APCs in the implanted breast cancer, but also the expression of hNIS gene at the tumor site. Tc-99m activity ratio (tumor/non-tumor) was significantly different between animals that received non-transduced and transduced cells (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

This study indicates that genetically transformed, magnetically labeled APCs can be used both as delivery vehicles and cellular probes for detecting in vivo migration and homing of cells. Furthermore, they can potentially be used as a gene carrier system for the treatment of tumor or other diseases.
Increased gene expression of a facilitated diffusion urea transporter in the skin of the African lungfish (Protopterus annectens) during massively elevated post-terrestrialization urea excretion
Authors: Hung Carrie Y. C. , Galvez Fernando , Ip Yuen K. , Wood Chris M.
Published: March 2009

The full-length cDNA sequence of a putative urea transporter(lfUT) of the facilitated diffusion UT-A type has been cloned from the African lungfish Protopterus annectens. The lfUT cDNA is 1990 bp in length and its open reading frame encodes a 409 amino acid long protein, with a calculated molecular mass of 44,723 Da. The sequence is closest to those of amphibians (∼65% amino acid homology), followed by mammals and elasmobranchs (∼60%), and then teleosts (∼50%). lfUT was clearly expressed in gill, kidney, liver, skeletal muscle and skin. Upon re-immersion in water after 33 days of air exposure(`terrestrialization'), lungfish exhibited a massive rise in urea-N excretion which peaked at 12–30 h with rates of 2000–5000 μmol-N kg–1 h–1 (versus normal aquatic rates of<130 μmol-N kg–1 h–1) and persisted until 70 h. This appears to occur mainly through the skin. Total `excess'urea-N excretion amounted to ∼81,000–91,000 μmol-N kg–1 over 3 days. By real-time PCR, there was no difference in lfUT expression in the ventral abdominal skin between aquatic ammoniotelic controls and terrestrialized lungfish immediately after return to water (0 h), and no elevation of urea-N excretion at this time. However, skin biopsies revealed a significant 2.55-fold elevation of lfUTexpression at 14 h, coincident with peak urea-N excretion. At 48 h, there was no longer any significant difference in lfUT mRNA levels from those at 0 and 14 h, or from aquatic fed controls. In accordance with earlier studies, which identified elevated urea-N excretion via the skin of P. dolloi with pharmacology typical of UT-A carriers, these results argue that transcriptional activation of a facilitated diffusion type urea transporter (lfUT) occurs in the skin during re-immersion. This serves to clear the body burden of urea-N accumulated during terrestrialization.
Fabrication of Poly[zinc acrylate-co-acrylic poly(ethylene glycol) ester] Nanofibers
Authors: Zhao Qingchun , Xu Ling
Published: March 2009

In this paper, we report a facile chemical route to fabricate polymer nanofibers under ambient conditions using aqueous/organic polymerization. The chemical structures of obtained polymers were investigated by infrared spectra and 1H NMR. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observation shows poly[zinc acrylate-co-acrylic poly(ethylene glycol) ester] nanofibers with average diameter 100–140 nm and several micrometers length. A possible mechanism for the formation of polymer nanofibers was investigated.
Aligned Coaxial Nanowires of Carbon Nanotubes Partially Sheathed with Polyaniline for Chemical Sensors
Authors: Peng Qiang , Wen Zhenhai , Zeng Guisheng , Zou Jianping , Lu Shiqiang
Published: March 2009

The aligned carbon nanotube–polyaniline composites with partially coaxial structures were prepared by electrochemical polymerization of aniline, which show efficient electrical conduction attributed to the polyaniline layer and large surface or interface area for potential application in chemical sensors.
Effect of Alkylthio Tail on Phase Behaviors of Bent-shaped Molecules Based on Naphthalene Core
Authors: Li Xiaodong , Lee Seng Kue , Kang Sungmin , Tokita Masatoshi , Kawauchi Susumu , Watanabe Junji
Published: March 2009

New bent-shaped molecules with naphthalene central core and alkylthio tail are prepared, and their banana phase structures and properties are discussed in comparison with those of conventional alkoxy molecules.
Efficient Site-selective RNA Activation and Scission Achieved by Geometry Control of Acridine Intercalation in RNA/DNA Heteroduplex
Authors: Kuzuya Akinori , Shi Yun , Tanaka Keita , Machida Kenzo , Komiyama Makoto
Published: March 2009

Two kinds of new acridine–DNA conjugates were synthesized by attaching acridines with bulky substituents to the end of DNA. These conjugates were hybridized to complementary RNA in combination with another unmodified DNA that hybridize to the adjacent fraction of the RNA, and were used as site-selective RNA activators for site-selective RNA cleavage catalyzed by LuIII. The site-selective hydrolyses by these combinations are several times as fast as that achieved with the use of commercially available acridine moiety.
Structure of the cytosine–cytosine mismatch in the thymidylate synthase mRNA binding site and analysis of its interaction with the aminoglycoside paromomycin
Authors: Tavares Tony J. , Beribisky Alexander V. , Johnson Philip E.
Published: March 2009

The structure of a cytosine–cytosine (CC) mismatch-containing RNA molecule derived from a hairpin structure in the thymidylate synthase mRNA that binds the aminoglycoside paromomycin with high affinity was determined using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. The cytosines in the mismatch form a noncanonical base pair where both cytosines are uncharged and stack within the stem of the RNA structure. Binding to paromomycin was analyzed using isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) to demonstrate the necessity of the CC mismatch and to determine the affinity dissociation constant of this RNA to paromomycin to be 0.5 ± 0.3 μM. The CC mismatch, and the neighboring GC base pairs experienced the highest degree of chemical shift changes in their H6 and H5 resonances indicating that paromomycin binds in the major groove at the CC mismatch site. In comparing the structure of CC mismatch RNA with a fully Watson–Crick GC base paired stem, the CC mismatch is shown to confer a widening of the major groove. This widening, combined with the dynamic nature of the CC mismatch, enables binding of paromomycin to this RNA molecule.
Safeguarding Slaves: Smallpox, Vaccination, and Governmental Health Policies among the Enslaved Population in the Danish West Indies, 1803–1848
Authors: Jensen Niklas Thode
Published: March 2009

During the first half of the nineteenth century, a unique system of vaccination against smallpox was developed in the island of St. Croix in the Danish West Indies. The primary intention was to protect the population of enslaved workers, which was of fundamental importance to the economy of the colony. However, because the Danish abolition of the slave trade in 1803 had stopped the imports of new enslaved workers from Africa, the population was also decreasing. The vaccination system's success was due to a high degree of governmental control of the enslaved population that was virtually unseen anywhere else in the Caribbean.
The “Wealth of Networks” and Institutional Repositories: MIT, DSpace, and the Future of the Scholarly Commons
Authors: Duranceau Ellen Finnie
Published: March 2009

This article draws on Yochai Benkler’s The Wealth of Networks to examine the concept of the commons as it applies to scholarly communication, and in particular to the phenomenon of institutional repositories and how they align with evolving practices in the exchange of information. It discusses how a culture of openness at MIT is manifested in its institutional repository, DSpace, and how the MIT Libraries have transformed positions in support of scholarly publishing initiatives and the development of a scholarly commons.
Describing Scholarly Works with Dublin Core: A Functional Approach
Authors: Allinson Julie
Published: March 2009

This article describes the development of the Scholarly Works Application Profile (SWAP)—a Dublin Core application profile for describing scholarly texts. This work provides an active illustration of the Dublin Core Metadata Initiative (DCMI) “Singapore Framework” for Application Profiles, presented at the DCMI Conference in 2007, by incorporating the various elements of Application Profile building as defined by this framework—functional requirements, domain model, description set profile, usage guidelines, and data format. These elements build on the foundations laid down by the Dublin Core Abstract Model and utilize a preexisting domain model (FR-BR—Functional Requirements for Bibliographic Records) in order to support the representation of complex data describing multiple entities and their relationships. The challenges of engaging community acceptance and implementation will be covered, along with other related initiatives to support the growing corpus of scholarly resource types, such as data objects, geographic data, multimedia, and images whose structure and metadata requirements introduce the need for new application profiles. Finally, looking to other initiatives, the article will comment on how Dublin Core relates to the broader scholarly information world, where projects like Object Re-use and Exchange are attempting to better equip repositories to exchange resources.
Introduction: Institutional Repositories: Current State and Future
Authors: Shreeves Sarah L. , Cragin Melissa H.
Published: March 2009

Institutional repositories (IRs) currently exist in a rapidly shifting landscape without a clear consensus on their role in the academic environment. Low self-archiving rates have dampened hopes that IRs would have an impact on scholarly publishing models. Preservation programs, a stated goal of many IRs, are often not well established. In many cases, IRs are not part of a larger vision for services the library can provide to the institution, but are isolated projects without a strong base of support. Institutions are beginning to explore the role of IRs in the collection of materials like data sets. Given this environment, where will IRs be in the next five or ten years? This issue of Library Trends contains an impressive slate of articles from prominent practitioners and researchers in the field, who offer a range of perspectives on the current state of IRs in academic institutions and reflections on their future.
Sudden Unexpected Death in Young Athletes: Reconsidering “Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy”
Authors: Rowland Thomas
Published: March 2009

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is considered a principal cause of sudden unexpected cardiac death in young athletes. However, a number of demographic features observed in these deaths are not consistent with the diagnosis. All of these characteristics instead share in common a propensity for ventricular hypertrophy, implying that these deaths may reflect electrical stability in the extremely rare athlete with exaggerated myocardial hypertrophy in response to sports training. This review provides an evidence-based line of reasoning that supports this concept.
Associations of Executive Function With Sleepiness and Sleep Duration in Adolescents
Authors: Anderson Basil , Storfer-Isser Amy , Taylor H. Gerry , Rosen Carol L. , Redline Susan
Published: March 2009

BACKGROUND. Sleep deprivation and sleepiness are associated with poorer school performance, impaired neurobehavioral functioning, and behavioral problems.

OBJECTIVE. To determine if adolescents with high levels of sleepiness or short sleep duration have impaired executive functioning.

METHODS. Ours was a cross-sectional analysis of data from 236 healthy adolescents in a community-based cohort study. Sleepiness was measured by using a modified version of the Epworth Sleepiness Scale. Participants underwent 5- to 7-day wrist actigraphy at home before overnight polysomnography. Exposure variables were excessive sleepiness (Epworth Sleepiness Scale ≥ 11) and weekday mean sleep duration. The main outcome measures were the global executive composite scale from the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function and the tower test-total achievement score from the Delis-Kaplan Executive Functioning System.

RESULTS. Participants (N = 236) were 13.7 ± 0.8 years of age, and 52.1% were boys. Mean weekday sleep duration was 7.70 ± 1.03 hours; 11% slept <6.5 hours on average on weekdays, and 26% reported excessive sleepiness. In unadjusted analyses, sleepy adolescents had poorer executive functioning on the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function global executive composite scale and the Delis-Kaplan Executive Functioning System tower test-total achievement. Analyses adjusted for potential confounders resulted in a modest attenuation of the association with the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function and a larger attenuation for the Delis-Kaplan Executive Functioning System. Caregiver education modified the association between sleepiness and the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function outcomes. Among sleepy adolescents, those with less-educated caregivers had greater impairment on the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function global executive composite scale. Sleep duration was not significantly associated with executive functioning outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS. Decrements in selected executive function scales are associated with subjective sleepiness, but not sleep duration, in adolescents. The association between sleepiness and executive functioning is strongest among adolescents with primary caregivers who have lower levels of education, suggesting an increased susceptibility. Pediatricians and public health officials should consider sleepiness as a potentially important contributor to adolescent functioning.
The Relationship Between Infant-Feeding Outcomes and Postpartum Depression: A Qualitative Systematic Review
Authors: Dennis Cindy-Lee , McQueen Karen
Published: March 2009

CONTEXT. The negative health consequences of postpartum depression are well documented, as are the benefits of breastfeeding. Despite the detailed research related to these maternal and infant health outcomes, the relationship between maternal mood and breastfeeding remains equivocal.

OBJECTIVE. A qualitative systematic review was conducted to examine the relationship between postpartum depressive symptomatology and infant-feeding outcomes.

METHODS. We performed electronic searchers in Medline (1966–2007), the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) (1982–2007), and Embase (1980–2007) by using specific key words. A hand search of selected specialist journals and reference lists of articles obtained was then conducted. Seventy-five articles were reviewed, of which 49 specifically provided data to be extracted related to postpartum depressive symptomatology and infant-feeding outcomes. Both authors independently extracted data including study design, participants (number and characteristics), and results.

RESULTS. The results from this review suggest that women with depressive symptomatology in the early postpartum period may be at increased risk for negative infant-feeding outcomes including decreased breastfeeding duration, increased breastfeeding difficulties, and decreased levels of breastfeeding self-efficacy. There is also beginning evidence to suggest that depressed women may be less likely to initiate breastfeeding and do so exclusively.

CONCLUSIONS. Depressive symptomatology in the postpartum period negatively influences infant-feeding outcomes. These findings have important clinical implications and support the need for early identification and treatment of women with depressive symptomatology. However, strategies to address help-seeking barriers are needed if women are to receive appropriate and timely treatment. Research to determine effective interventions to support depressed breastfeeding women is warranted.
Family Composition and Children's Exposure to Adult Smokers in Their Homes
Authors: King Katherine , Martynenko Melissa , Bergman Melissa H. , Liu Ying-Hua , Winickoff Jonathan P. , Weitzman Michael
Published: March 2009

OBJECTIVE. Smoking behavior is strongly influenced by the social environment. More information is needed about how the composition of households with children is associated with adult smoking behavior so that more effective interventions to reduce children's secondhand smoke exposure can be devised and implemented.

METHODS. Using data from the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey 2000–2004, we conducted cross-sectional analyses to assess how adult smoking behavior is associated with household characteristics, including the number of adults and smokers present, the relationship of the child to the head of household, and relationships between adult members of the household.

RESULTS. More than one third (34.4%) of children lived with ≥1 adult smoker. Almost half (49.4%) of poor children lived with a smoker, and they were more likely to live with multiple smokers compared with those who lived at >400% of the federal poverty level (21.2% vs 7.8%). Approximately 5 million children lived in households headed by an adult other than their parent, and they were significantly more likely to live with smokers: 53.4% of children who lived in their grandparents' homes and 46.2% of children in homes of other adults lived with at least 1 adult smoker, compared with 33.3% who lived in their parents' home. A total of 59.4% of all children who lived with a smoker had a smoking mother, and 56.7% of those children lived with ≥2 smokers, whereas only 17.0% of children whose mother did not smoke had smoking adults in the home.

CONCLUSIONS. These findings demonstrate the significant influence of household composition on children's likelihood to live in homes with adult smokers.
Screening for Child and Adolescent Depression in Primary Care Settings: A Systematic Evidence Review for the US Preventive Services Task Force
Authors: Williams Selvi B. , O'Connor Elizabeth A. , Eder Michelle , Whitlock Evelyn P.
Published: March 2009

CONTEXT. Depression among youth is a disabling condition that is associated with serious long-term morbidities and suicide.

OBJECTIVE. To assess the health effects of routine primary care screening for major depressive disorder among children and adolescents aged 7 to 18 years.

METHODS. Medline, the Cochrane Central Registry of Controlled Trials, PsycInfo, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, recent systematic reviews, experts, and bibliographies from selected studies were the data sources. The studies selected were fair- and good-quality (on the basis of US Preventive Services Task Force criteria) controlled trials of screening and treatment (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor and/or psychotherapy), diagnostic accuracy studies, and large observational studies that reported adverse events. Two reviewers quality-graded each article. One reviewer abstracted relevant information into standardized evidence tables, and a second reviewer checked key elements.

RESULTS. We found no data describing health outcomes among screened and unscreened populations. Although the literature on diagnostic screening test accuracy is small and methodologically limited, it indicates that several screening instruments have performed fairly well among adolescents. The literature on treatment efficacy of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and/or psychotherapy is also small but includes good-quality randomized, controlled trials. Available data indicate that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, psychotherapy, and combined treatment are effective in increasing response rates and reducing depressive symptoms. Not all specific selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, however, seem to be efficacious. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor treatment was associated with a small absolute increase in risk of suicidality (ie, suicidal ideation, preparatory acts, or attempts). No suicide deaths occurred in any of the trials.

CONCLUSIONS. Limited available data suggest that primary care–feasible screening tools may accurately identify depressed adolescents and treatment can improve depression outcomes. Treating depressed youth with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors may be associated with a small increased risk of suicidality and should only be considered if judicious clinical monitoring is possible.
Residual stress and strain-free lattice-parameter depth profiles in a γ′-Fe4N1-x layer on an α-Fe substrate measured by x-ray diffraction stress analysis at constant information depth
Authors: Wohlschlögel M. , Welzel U. , Mittemeijer E.J.
Published: March 2009

The residual stress and lattice-parameter depth profiles in a γ′-Fe4N1-x layer (6-μm thickness) grown on top of an α-Fe substrate were investigated using x-ray diffraction stress analysis at constant penetration depths. Three different reflections (220, 311, and 222) were recorded at six different penetration depths using three different wavelengths. At each penetration depth, x-ray diffraction stress analysis was performed on the basis of the sin2ψ method. As a result, the residual-stress depth profile was obtained from the measured lattice strains. The lattice spacings measured in the strain-free direction were used to determine the (strain-free) lattice-parameter depth profile. The nitrogen-concentration depth profile in the layer was calculated by applying a relationship between the (strain-free) γ′ lattice parameter and the nitrogen concentration. It was found that the strain-free lattice-parameter depth profile as derived from the 311 reflections is best compatible with nitrogen concentrations at the surface and at the γ′/α interface as predicted on the basis of local thermodynamic equilibrium. It could be shown that the 311 reflection is most suitable for the analysis of lattice-parameter and residual stress depth profiles because the corresponding x-ray elastic constants exhibit the least sensitivity to the type of and changes in grain interaction. The depth-dependence of the grain interaction could be revealed. It was found that the grain interaction changes from Voigt-type near the surface to Reuss-type at the layer/substrate interface.
Atmospheric pressure synthesis of In2Se3, Cu2Se, and CuInSe2without external selenization from solution precursors
Authors: Nekuda Malik Jennifer A. , van Hest Maikel F.A.M. , Miedaner Alexander , Curtis Calvin J. , Leisch Jennifer E. , Parilla Philip A. , Kaufman Michael , Taylor Matthew , Stanbery B.J. , O’Hayre Ryan P. , Ginley David S.
Published: March 2009

In2Se3, Cu2Se, and CuInSe2thin films have been successfully fabricated using novel metal organic decomposition (MOD) precursors and atmospheric pressure-based deposition and processing. The phase evolution of the binary (In-Se and Cu-Se) and ternary (Cu-In-Se) MOD precursor films was examined during processing to evaluate the nature of the phase and composition changes. The In-Se binary precursor exhibits two specific phase regimes: (i) a cubic-InxSeyphase at processing temperatures between 300 and 400 °C and (ii) the γ-In2Se3phase for films annealed above 450 °C. Both phases exhibit a composition of 40 at.% indium and 60 at.% selenium. The binary Cu-Se precursor films show more diverse phase behavior, and within a narrow temperature processing range a number of Cu-Se phases, including CuSe2, CuSe, and Cu2Se, can be produced and stabilized. The ternary Cu-In-Se precursor can be used to produce relatively dense CuInSe2films at temperatures between 300 and 500 °C. Layering the binary precursors together has provided an approach to producing CuInSe2thin films; however, the morphology of the layered binary structure exhibits a significant degree of porosity. An alternative method of layering was explored where the Cu-Se binary was layered on top of an existing indium-gallium-selenide layer and processed. This method produced highly dense and large-grained (>3 µm) CuInSe2thin films. This has significant potential as a manufacturable route to CIGS-based solar cells.
The functionalization of carbon nanofibers with 4,4′-diaminodiphenylmethane, a curing agent for epoxy resins
Authors: Chaos-Morán R. , Campo M. , Prolongo S.G. , Escalera M.D. , Ureña A.
Published: March 2009

A functionalization technique for carbon nanofibers (CNFs) via acid is described. The integrity and chemical nature of the CNFs during the different stages of the applied treatment (oxidation, activation, and functionalization) were examined using different microscopic, chemical, and thermal analysis techniques. The treatment effect on the dispersion ability of the nanofibers in different solvents (tetrahydrofuran, chloroform, and acetone) was also evaluated. Results show that chloroform is the best medium to reach good dispersions and stability of the CNFs in a wide range of concentrations. Using this medium, the functionalization process using 4,4′-diaminodiphenylmethane (DDM) was adopted for the fabrication of reactive CNFs with linker molecules on their surface capable of binding covalently to thermosetting polymers, such as epoxy. The DDM surface derivatized CNFs have been used as reinforcement in epoxy matrix nanocomposites with improved thermomechanical properties in relation to non-treated carbon nanofibers.
Corrosion behavior of the bulk glassy (Fe44.3Cr5Co5Mo12.8Mn11.2C15.8B5.9)98.5Y1.5 alloy
Authors: Gostin F. , Siegel U. , Mickel C. , Baunack S. , Gebert A. , Schultz L.
Published: March 2009

The free corrosion behavior and the anodic passivation ability of the bulk glassy (Fe44.3Cr5Co5Mo12.8Mn11.2C15.8B5.9)98.5Y1.5 alloy were fundamentally analyzed. Electrochemical tests were performed in aqueous solutions with pH values in the interval 0.3–14. Corrosion current densities are below 3 μA/cm2 in the entire studied pH interval; compared with commercial grade steels, for example, X210Cr12 steel, the glassy alloy has lower corrosion rates in acidic electrolytes and higher in basic solutions. The alloy exhibits high dissolution rates upon anodic polarization in acidic environments, but with increasing pH values it tends to form passive layers showing the lowest passive current density at pH 11. The passive layers consist mainly of Fe and Cr oxides. There is a strong variation of the passive layer structure and composition with pH. The protective effect of the grown surface layers is negatively influenced by sulfate ions.