bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Photoinduced electron transfer from semiconductor quantum dots to metal oxide nanoparticles
Authors: Tvrdy Kevin , Frantsuzov Pavel A. , Kamat Prashant V.
Published: December 2010

Quantum dot-metal oxide junctions are an integral part of next-generation solar cells, light emitting diodes, and nanostructured electronic arrays. Here we present a comprehensive examination of electron transfer at these junctions, using a series of CdSe quantum dot donors (sizes 2.8, 3.3, 4.0, and 4.2 nm in diameter) and metal oxide nanoparticle acceptors (SnO2, TiO2, and ZnO). Apparent electron transfer rate constants showed strong dependence on change in system free energy, exhibiting a sharp rise at small driving forces followed by a modest rise further away from the characteristic reorganization energy. The observed trend mimics the predicted behavior of electron transfer from a single quantum state to a continuum of electron accepting states, such as those present in the conduction band of a metal oxide nanoparticle. In contrast with dye-sensitized metal oxide electron transfer studies, our systems did not exhibit unthermalized hot-electron injection due to relatively large ratios of electron cooling rate to electron transfer rate. To investigate the implications of these findings in photovoltaic cells, quantum dot-metal oxide working electrodes were constructed in an identical fashion to the films used for the electron transfer portion of the study. Interestingly, the films which exhibited the fastest electron transfer rates (SnO2) were not the same as those which showed the highest photocurrent (TiO2). These findings suggest that, in addition to electron transfer at the quantum dot-metal oxide interface, other electron transfer reactions play key roles in the determination of overall device efficiency.
People believe they have more free will than others
Authors: Pronin Emily , Kugler Matthew B.
Published: December 2010

Four experiments identify a tendency for people to believe that their own lives are more guided by the tenets of free will than are the lives of their peers. These tenets involve the a priori unpredictability of personal action, the presence of multiple possible paths in a person's future, and the causal power of one's personal desires and intentions in guiding one's actions. In experiment 1, participants viewed their own pasts and futures as less predictable a priori than those of their peers. In experiments 2 and 3, participants thought there were more possible paths (whether good or bad) in their own futures than their peers’ futures. In experiment 4, participants viewed their own future behavior, compared with that of their peers, as uniquely driven by intentions and desires (rather than personality, random features of the situation, or history). Implications for the classic actor–observer bias, for debates about free will, and for perceptions of personal responsibility are discussed.
A Romance Construction With Constrained Coreference
Authors: Ranchhod Elisabete
Published: December 2010

Pronouns are commonly considered as linguistic items which supply a way of avoiding redundancy through mere reference to something previously (anaphoric reference) or subsequently (cataphoric reference) expressed in the discourse. In this paper we provide evidence that there are numerous situations where the pronouns refer to linguistic items, having particular syntactic function, holding together an obligatory co-reference relation. Co-referential items occur as arguments of a predicative term = : Vsup N where Vsup is ser or estar (to be), and N a predicative noun. Although the present description mainly concerns Spanish and Portuguese, we believe that it also applies to other Romance languages.
L'interférence et la Théorie Phonologique
Authors: Singh Rajendra , Ford Alan
Published: December 2010

The purpose of this paper is to argue that the facts of interphonology support a division of processes relating sound alternations into two distinct types: those that cannot cause negative transfer and those that can and often do. This distinction has been captured in two ways in recent phonological theory: (i) by proposing an autonomous morphophonology {cf. Hooper 1976) and (ii) by positing levels and strata (cf. Mohanan 1982 and Kiparsky 1982). Both internal and external evidence, such as the phonological behaviour of nonsense words {cf. Gussmann 1980) and the necessity of doing at least some inflection in the lexicon (cf. Lieber 1981), argues against the former model. The latter model succeeds in avoiding autonomous morphophonology, but only at the cost of postulating levels and strata, constructs for which interpho-nology offers no support. The facts of negative transfer or interference, it seems to us, are best accounted for by a theory that accounts for non-global "morphophonology" directly in the morphological component of the grammar (cf. Ford and Singh 1984 and Singh à paraître).
Introduction.
Authors: Paull R. E. , Duarte O.
Published: December 2010

This chapter discusses the different tropical fruits, their characteristics, nutritive value and significant trends in production and marketing. The consumer demands for higher quality, international forums dedicated to specific tropical fruits or groups of closely related fruits and the limitations of tropical horticulture are also highlighted.
Tree management.
Authors: Paull R. E. , Duarte O.
Published: December 2010

This chapter focuses on the sexual and asexual propagation and differences between sexually and asexually propagated fruit trees, nursery tree management and planting, pruning, irrigation, fertilizer application and pest and disease management strategies. The girdling and scoring, leaf fall, use of plant growth regulators and other stimulants, pollination and temporary shade, shelter and bagging of fruit trees are also discussed.
Postharvest technology.
Authors: Paull R. E. , Duarte O.
Published: December 2010

This chapter focuses on the losses acquired during postharvest handling, general characteristics, postharvest physiology, storage potential, postharvest handling, insect disinfestation, storage diseases, food safety and ripening of tropical fruits. The requirements for the postharvest handling of organically produced fruits and the logistics of the supply and marketing chain are also discussed.
Annonas: cherimoya, atemoya and sweetsop.
Authors: Paull R. E. , Duarte O.
Published: December 2010

This chapter focuses on the botany (family, important genera and species and area of origin and distribution) of the cherimoyas, atemoyas and sweetsops and the effects of soil type, rainfall, temperature, light and photoperiod and wind factors on their ecology. The general characteristics of the flowers, pollination and fruit set, use of plant growth regulators for fruit setting and fruits are discussed. The cultivar development and cultural practices, such as secual and asexual propagation, rootstocks, field preparation, transplanting and spacing, irrigation practices, pruning, fertilizer application and pest, disease and weed management are highlighted and the harvesting and postharvest handling and utilization of fruits are also pointed out.
Litchi and longan.
Authors: Paull R. E. , Duarte O.
Published: December 2010

This chapter focuses on the taxonomy, origin and distribution, effects of climatic factors on the ecology, morphology and physiology of litchi and longan. The cultivar development, cultural practices for propagation, cultivation, irrigation, pruning, ferilizer application and pest, weed and disease management are discussed. The harvesting and postharvest handling of fruits and their utilization are also highlighted.
Papaya.
Authors: Paull R. E. , Duarte O.
Published: December 2010

This paper focuses on the taxonomy, origin and distribution, ecological requirements, morphology and physiology of pawpaws. The cultivar development, propagation, cultivation, irrigation, pruning, fertilizer application and weed, pest and disease management are discussed. The harvesting, postharvest handling and utilization of the fruits are also highlighted.
Pineapple.
Authors: Paull R. E. , Duarte O.
Published: December 2010

This paper focuses on the taxonomy, origin and distribution, ecological requirements, morphology and physiology of pineapples. The cultivar development, propagation, cultivation, fumigation, irrigation, flower induction, fertilizer application and weed, pest and disease management are discussed. The harvesting, postharvest handling and utilization of the fruits are highlighted and the different physiological disorders are pointed out.
Mad2 inhibits the mitotic kinesin MKlp2
Authors: Lee Sang Hyun , McCormick Frank , Saya Hideyuki
Published: December 2010

We identified the mitotic kinesin-like protein 2 (MKlp2), a kinesin required for chromosome passenger complex (CPC)–mediated cytokinesis, as a target of the mitotic checkpoint protein Mad2. MKlp2 possesses a consensus Mad2-binding motif required for Mad2 binding. Mad2 prevents MKlp2 from loading onto the mitotic spindle, a prerequisite step for its function as a mitotic kinesin. Furthermore, Mad2 inhibits the ability of MKlp2 to relocate the CPC from centromeres, an essential step to promote cytokinesis. An MKlp2 mutant that is refractory to Mad2-mediated inhibition prematurely translocates to the mitotic spindle and mislocalizes the CPC component Aurora B from the midbody of dividing cells. This correlates with an increased incidence of cytokinesis failure. Together, these findings reveal that MKlp2 is a novel mitotic target of Mad2 necessary for proper mitotic progression and cytokinesis.
Molecular architecture of a dynamin adaptor: implications for assembly of mitochondrial fission complexes
Authors: Koirala Sajjan , Bui Huyen T. , Schubert Heidi L. , Eckert Debra M. , Hill Christopher P. , Kay Michael S. , Shaw Janet M.
Published: December 2010

Recruitment and assembly of some dynamin-related guanosine triphosphatases depends on adaptor proteins restricted to distinct cellular membranes. The yeast Mdv1 adaptor localizes to mitochondria by binding to the membrane protein Fis1. Subsequent Mdv1 binding to the mitochondrial dynamin Dnm1 stimulates Dnm1 assembly into spirals, which encircle and divide the mitochondrial compartment. In this study, we report that dimeric Mdv1 is joined at its center by a 92-Å antiparallel coiled coil (CC). Modeling of the Fis1–Mdv1 complex using available crystal structures suggests that the Mdv1 CC lies parallel to the bilayer with N termini at opposite ends bound to Fis1 and C-terminal β-propeller domains (Dnm1-binding sites) extending into the cytoplasm. A CC length of appropriate length and sequence is necessary for optimal Mdv1 interaction with Fis1 and Dnm1 and is important for proper Dnm1 assembly before membrane scission. Our results provide a framework for understanding how adaptors act as scaffolds to orient and stabilize the assembly of dynamins on membranes.
Formin follows function: a muscle-specific isoform of FHOD3 is regulated by CK2 phosphorylation and promotes myofibril maintenance
Authors: Iskratsch Thomas , Lange Stephan , Dwyer Joseph , Kho Ay Lin , Remedios Cris dos , Ehler Elisabeth
Published: December 2010

Members of the formin family are important for actin filament nucleation and elongation. We have identified a novel striated muscle–specific splice variant of the formin FHOD3 that introduces a casein kinase 2 (CK2) phosphorylation site. The specific targeting of muscle FHOD3 to the myofibrils in cardiomyocytes is abolished in phosphomutants or by the inhibition of CK2. Phosphorylation of muscle FHOD3 also prevents its interaction with p62/sequestosome 1 and its recruitment to autophagosomes. Furthermore, we show that muscle FHOD3 efficiently promotes the polymerization of actin filaments in cardiomyocytes and that the down-regulation of its expression severely affects myofibril integrity. In murine and human cardiomyopathy, we observe reduced FHOD3 expression with a concomitant isoform switch and change of subcellular targeting. Collectively, our data suggest that a muscle-specific isoform of FHOD3 is required for the maintenance of the contractile structures in heart muscle and that its function is regulated by posttranslational modification.
Mining recent brain proteomic databases for ion channel phosphosite nuggets
Authors: Cerda Oscar , Baek Je-Hyun , Trimmer James S.
Published: December 2010

Voltage-gated ion channels underlie electrical activity of neurons and are dynamically regulated by diverse cell signaling pathways that alter their phosphorylation state. Recent global mass spectrometric–based analyses of the mouse brain phosphoproteome have yielded a treasure trove of new data as to the extent and nature of phosphorylation of numerous ion channel principal or α subunits in mammalian brain. Here we compile and review data on 347 phosphorylation sites (261 unique) on 42 different voltage-gated ion channel α subunits that were identified in these recent studies. Researchers in the ion channel field can now begin to explore the role of these novel in vivo phosphorylation sites in the dynamic regulation of the localization, activity, and expression of brain ion channels through multisite phosphorylation of their principal subunits.
Automorphisms of complex reflection groups
Authors: Marin I. , Michel J.
Published: December 2010

Let

G
⊂

G
L

(

C

r

)

G\subset \mathrm {GL}(\mathbb {C}^r)

be a finite complex reflection group. We show that when

G
G

is irreducible, apart from the exception

G
=

S

6

G=\mathfrak {S}_6

, as well as for a large class of non-irreducible groups, any automorphism of

G
G

is the product of a central automorphism and of an automorphism which preserves the reflections. We show further that an automorphism which preserves the reflections is the product of an element of

N

G
L

(

C

r

)

(
G
)

N_{\mathrm {GL}(\mathbb {C}^r)}(G)

and of a “Galois” automorphism: we show that

G
a
l

(
K

/

Q

)

\mathrm {Gal}(K/\mathbb {Q})

, where

K
K

is the field of definition of

G
G

, injects into the group of outer automorphisms of

G
G

, and that this injection can be chosen such that it induces the usual Galois action on characters of

G
G

, apart from a few exceptional characters; further, replacing

K
K

if needed by an extension of degree

2
2

, the injection can be lifted to

A
u
t

(
G
)

\mathrm {Aut}(G)

, and every irreducible representation admits a model which is equivariant with respect to this lifting. Along the way we show that the fundamental invariants of

G
G

can be chosen rational.
Fractal structures in nonlinear plasma physics
Authors: Viana R. L. , Da Silva E. C. , Kroetz T. , Caldas I. L. , Roberto M. , Sanjuán M. A. F.
Published: December 2010

Fractal structures appear in many situations related to the dynamics of conservative as well as dissipative dynamical systems, being a manifestation of chaotic behaviour. In open area-preserving discrete dynamical systems we can find fractal structures in the form of fractal boundaries, associated to escape basins, and even possessing the more general property of Wada. Such systems appear in certain applications in plasma physics, like the magnetic field line behaviour in tokamaks with ergodic limiters. The main purpose of this paper is to show how such fractal structures have observable consequences in terms of the transport properties in the plasma edge of tokamaks, some of which have been experimentally verified. We emphasize the role of the fractal structures in the understanding of mesoscale phenomena in plasmas, such as electromagnetic turbulence.
Nonlinear screening of charged macromolecules
Authors: Téllez Gabriel
Published: December 2010

We present several aspects of the screening of charged macromolecules in an electrolyte. After a review of the basic mean field approach, based on the linear Debye–Hückel theory, we consider the case of highly charged macromolecules, where the linear approximation breaks down and the system is described by the full nonlinear Poisson–Boltzmann equation. Some analytical results for this nonlinear equation give some interesting insight on physical phenomena like the charge renormalization and the Manning counterion condensation.
Recent developments on the Kardar–Parisi–Zhang surface-growth equation
Authors: Wio Horacio S. , Escudero Carlos , Revelli Jorge A. , Deza Roberto R. , de la Lama Marta S.
Published: December 2010

The stochastic nonlinear partial differential equation known as the Kardar–Parisi–Zhang (KPZ) equation is a highly successful phenomenological mesoscopic model of surface and interface growth processes. Its suitability for analytical work, its explicit symmetries and its prediction of an exact dynamic scaling relation for a one-dimensional substratum led people to adopt it as a ‘standard’ model in the field during the last quarter of a century. At the same time, several conjectures deserving closer scrutiny were established as dogmas throughout the community. Among these, we find the beliefs that ‘genuine’ non-equilibrium processes are non-variational in essence, and that the exactness of the dynamic scaling relation owes its existence to a Galilean symmetry. Additionally, the equivalence among planar and radial interface profiles has been generally assumed in the literature throughout the years. Here—among other topics—we introduce a variational formulation of the KPZ equation, remark on the importance of consistency in discretization and challenge the mainstream view on the necessity for scaling of both Galilean symmetry and the one-dimensional fluctuation–dissipation theorem. We also derive the KPZ equation on a growing domain as a first approximation to radial growth, and outline the differences with respect to the classical case that arises in this new situation.
Nonlinear semiclassical dynamics of open systems
Authors: Ozorio de Almeida A. M. , Brodier O.
Published: December 2010

A semiclassical approximation for an evolving density operator, driven by a ‘closed’ Hamiltonian and ‘open’ Markovian Lindblad operators, is reviewed. The theory is based on the chord function, i.e. the Fourier transform of the Wigner function. It reduces to an exact solution of the Lindblad master equation if the Hamiltonian is a quadratic function and the Lindblad operators are linear functions of positions and momenta. The semiclassical formulae are interpreted within a (real) double phase space, generated by an appropriate classical double Hamiltonian. An extra ‘open’ term in the double Hamiltonian is generated by the non-Hermitian part of the Lindblad operators in the general case of dissipative Markovian evolution. Decoherence narrows the relevant region of double phase space to the neighbourhood of a caustic for both the Wigner function and the chord function. This difficulty is avoided by the definition of a propagator, here developed in both representations. Generalized asymptotic equilibrium solutions are thus presented for the first time.
Increasing thermoelectric efficiency: dynamical models unveil microscopic mechanisms
Authors: Benenti Giuliano , Casati Giulio
Published: December 2010

Dynamical nonlinear systems provide a new approach to the old problem of increasing the efficiency of thermoelectric machines. In this review, we discuss stylized models of classical dynamics, including non-interacting complex molecules in an ergodic billiard, a disordered hard-point gas and an abstract thermoelectric machine. The main focus will be on the physical mechanisms, unveiled by these dynamical models, which lead to high thermoelectric efficiency approaching the Carnot limit.
Generalized statistical mechanics for superstatistical systems
Authors: Beck Christian
Published: December 2010

Mesoscopic systems in a slowly fluctuating environment are often well described by superstatistical models. We develop a generalized statistical mechanics formalism for superstatistical systems, by mapping the superstatistical complex system onto a system of ordinary statistical mechanics with modified energy levels. We also briefly review recent examples of applications of the superstatistics concept for three very different subject areas, namely train delay statistics, turbulent tracer dynamics and cancer survival statistics.
Nonlinear dynamics in meso and nano scales: fundamental aspects and applications
Authors: da Luz Marcos G. E. , Anteneodo Celia
Published: December 2010

This introduction to the special issue,
Nonlinear dynamics in meso and nano scales: fundamental aspects and applications
, gives a short overview about different contexts and current challenges posed by the emergence of nonlinearities at meso and nano characteristic sizes. It also addresses different aspects related to classical and quantum chaos. Moreover, it comments on the articles in this thematic publication, briefly summarizing their relevance in helping to understand the uprise of chaos and complex behaviour at those small scales.
Infection in conflict wounded
Authors: Eardley W. G. P. , Brown K. V. , Bonner T. J. , Green A. D. , Clasper J. C.
Published: December 2010

Although mechanisms of modern military wounding may be distinct from those of ancient conflicts, the infectious sequelae of ballistic trauma and the evolving microbial flora of war wounds remain a considerable burden on both the injured combatant and their deployed medical systems. Battlefield surgeons of ancient times favoured suppuration in war wounding and as such Galenic encouragement of pus formation would hinder progress in wound care for centuries. Napoleonic surgeons eventually abandoned this mantra, embracing radical surgical intervention, primarily by amputation, to prevent infection. Later, microscopy enabled identification of microorganisms and characterization of wound flora. Concurrent advances in sanitation and evacuation enabled improved outcomes and establishment of modern military medical systems. Advances in medical doctrine and technology afford those injured in current conflicts with increasing survivability through rapid evacuation, sophisticated resuscitation and timely surgical intervention. Infectious complications in those that do survive, however, are a major concern. Addressing antibiotic use, nosocomial transmission and infectious sequelae are a current clinical management and research priority and will remain so in an era characterized by a massive burden of combat extremity injury. This paper provides a review of infection in combat wounding from a historical setting through to the modern evidence base.
The role of trauma scoring in developing trauma clinical governance in the Defence Medical Services
Authors: Russell R. J. , Hodgetts T. J. , McLeod J. , Starkey K. , Mahoney P. , Harrison K. , Bell E.
Published: December 2010

This paper discusses mathematical models of expressing severity of injury and probability of survival following trauma and their use in establishing clinical governance of a trauma system. There are five sections: (i)
Historical overview of scoring systems
—anatomical, physiological and combined systems and the advantages and disadvantages of each. (ii)
Definitions used in official statistics
—definitions of ‘killed in action’ and other categories and the importance of casualty reporting rates and comparison across conflicts and nationalities. (iii)
Current scoring systems and clinical governance
—clinical governance of the trauma system in the Defence Medical Services (DMS) by using trauma scoring models to analyse injury and clinical patterns. (iv)
Unexpected outcomes
—unexpected outcomes focus clinical governance tools. Unexpected survivors signify good practice to be promulgated. Unexpected deaths pick up areas of weakness to be addressed. Seventy-five clinically validated unexpected survivors were identified over 2 years during contemporary combat operations. (v)
Future developments
—can the trauma scoring methods be improved? Trauma scoring systems use linear approaches and have significant weaknesses. Trauma and its treatment is a complex system. Nonlinear methods need to be investigated to determine whether these will produce a better approach to the analysis of the survival from major trauma.
The injured eye
Authors: Scott Robert
Published: December 2010

Eye injuries come at a high cost to society and are avoidable. Ocular blast injuries can be primary, from the blast wave itself; secondary, from fragments carried by the blast wind; tertiary; due to structural collapse or being thrown against a fixed object; or quaternary, from burns and indirect injuries. Ballistic eye protection significantly reduces the incidence of eye injuries and should be encouraged from an early stage in Military training. Management of an injured eye requires meticulous history taking, evaluation of vision that measures the acuity and if there is a relative pupillary defect as well as careful inspection of the eyes, under anaesthetic if necessary. A lateral canthotomy with cantholysis should be performed immediately if there is a sight-threatening retrobulbar haemorrhage. Systemic antibiotics should be prescribed if there is a suspected penetrating or perforating injury. A ruptured globe should be protected by an eye shield. Primary repair of ruptured globes should be performed in a timely fashion. Secondary procedures will often be required at a later date to achieve sight preservation. A poor initial visual acuity is not a guarantee of a poor final result. The final result can be predicted after approximately 3–4 weeks. Future research in eye injuries attempts to reduce scarring and neuronal damage as well as to promote photoreceptor rescue, using post-transcriptional inhibition of cell death pathways and vaccination to promote neural recovery. Where the sight has been lost sensory substitution of a picture from a spectacle mounted video camera to the touch receptors of the tongue can be used to achieve appreciation of the outside world.
The injured lung: clinical issues and experimental models
Authors: Jugg B. J. A. , Smith A. J. , Rudall S. J. , Rice P.
Published: December 2010

Exposure of military and civilian populations to inhaled toxic chemicals can take place as a result of deliberate release (warfare, terrorism) or following accidental releases from industrial concerns or transported chemicals. Exposure to inhaled toxic chemicals can result in an acute lung injury, and in severe cases acute respiratory distress syndrome, for which there is currently no specific medical therapy, treatment remaining largely supportive. This treatment often requires intensive care facilities that may become overwhelmed in mass casualty events and may be of limited benefit in severe cases. There remains, therefore, a need for evidence-based treatment to inform both military and civilian medical response teams on the most appropriate treatment for chemically induced lung injury. This article reviews data used to derive potential clinical management strategies for chemically induced lung injury.
Shaping the military wound: issues surrounding the reconstruction of injured servicemen at the Royal Centre for Defence Medicine
Authors: Evriviades Demetrius , Jeffery Steven , Cubison Tania , Lawton Graham , Gill Martin , Mortiboy Deborah
Published: December 2010

The conflict in Afghanistan has produced injuries similar to those produced from military conflicts for generations. What distinguishes the modern casualty of the conflict in Afghanistan from those of other conflicts is the effectiveness of modern field medical care that has led to individuals surviving with injuries, which would have been immediately fatal even a few years ago. These patients present several challenges to the reconstructive surgeon. These injured individuals present early challenges of massive soft-tissue trauma, unstable physiology, complex bony and soft-tissue defects, unusual infections, limited reconstructive donor sites, peripheral nerve injuries and traumatic amputations. Late challenges to rehabilitation include the development of heterotopic ossification in amputation stumps. This paper outlines the approach taken by the reconstructive team at the Royal Centre for Defence Medicine in managing these most difficult of reconstructive challenges.
Computational modelling of lung injury: is there potential for benefit?
Authors: Harvey Daniel J. R. , Hardman Jonathan G.
Published: December 2010

State-of-the-art medical care of the victims of current conflicts is generating large quantities of quality clinical data as a by-product. Observational research based on these data is beginning to have a profound influence on the clinical management of both military and civilian trauma patients. Computational modelling based on these datasets may offer the ability to investigate clinical treatment strategies that are practically, ethically or scientifically impossible to investigate on the front line. This article reviews the potential of this novel technology to aid development of treatment for blast lung and other unresolved medical scenarios.
The epidemiology of blast lung injury during recent military conflicts: a retrospective database review of cases presenting to deployed military hospitals, 2003–2009
Authors: Smith J. E.
Published: December 2010

Blast injuries are becoming increasingly common in military conflicts as the nature of combat changes from conventional to asymmetrical warfare and counter-insurgency. This article describes a retrospective database review of cases from the UK joint theatre trauma registry from 2003 to 2009, containing details of over 3000 patients, mainly injured in Iraq and Afghanistan. During this period, 1678 patients were injured by explosion of whom 113 had evidence of blast lung injury. Of the 50 patients who survived to reach a medical facility, 80 per cent required ventilatory support. Injuries caused by explosion are increasing when compared with those caused by other mechanisms, and blast lung represents a significant clinical problem in a deployed military setting. Management of these patients should be optimized from point of wounding to definitive care.
Blast injuries to the lung: epidemiology and management
Authors: Mackenzie Iain M. J. , Tunnicliffe Bill
Published: December 2010

Lung injury is frequently a component of the polytrauma sustained by military personnel surviving blast on the battlefield. This article describes a case series of the military casualties admitted to University Hospital Birmingham's critical care services (role 4 facility), during the period 1 July 2008 to 15 January 2010. Of the 135 casualties admitted, 107 (79.2%) were injured by explosive devices. Plain chest films taken soon after arrival in the role 4 facility were reviewed in 96 of the 107 patients. In 55 (57.3%) films a tracheal tube was present. One or more radiological abnormalities was present in 66 (68.75%) of the films. Five patients met the consensus criteria for the definition of adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The majority of casualties with blast-related lung injury were successfully managed with conventional ventilatory support employing a lung protective strategy; only a small minority received non-conventional support at any time in the form of high-frequency oscillatory ventilation. Of those casualties who survived to be received by the role 4 facility, none subsequently died as a consequence of lung injury.
The development of a quick-running prediction tool for the assessment of human injury owing to terrorist attack within crowded metropolitan environments
Authors: Pope Daniel J.
Published: December 2010

In the aftermath of the London ‘7/7’ attacks in 2005, UK government agencies required the development of a quick-running tool to predict the weapon and injury effects caused by the initiation of a person borne improvised explosive device (PBIED) within crowded metropolitan environments. This prediction tool, termed the HIP (human injury predictor) code, was intended to:

— assist the security services to encourage favourable crowd distributions and densities within scenarios of ‘sensitivity’;

— provide guidance to security engineers concerning the most effective location for protection systems;

— inform rescue services as to where, in the case of such an event, individuals with particular injuries will be located;

— assist in training medical personnel concerning the scope and types of injuries that would be sustained as a consequence of a particular attack;

— assist response planners in determining the types of medical specialists (burns, traumatic amputations, lungs, etc.) required and thus identify the appropriate hospitals to receive the various casualty types.

This document describes the algorithms used in the development of this tool, together with the pertinent underpinning physical processes. From its rudimentary beginnings as a simple spreadsheet, the HIP code now has a graphical user interface (GUI) that allows three-dimensional visualization of results and intuitive scenario set-up. The code is underpinned by algorithms that predict the pressure and momentum outputs produced by PBIEDs within open and confined environments, as well as the trajectories of shrapnel deliberately placed within the device to increase injurious effects. Further logic has been implemented to transpose these weapon effects into forms of human injury depending on where individuals are located relative to the PBIED. Each crowd member is subdivided into representative body parts, each of which is assigned an abbreviated injury score after a particular calculation cycle. The injury levels of each affected body part are then summated and a triage state assigned for each individual crowd member based on the criteria specified within the ‘injury scoring system’. To attain a comprehensive picture of a particular event, it is important that a number of simulations, using what is substantively the same scenario, are undertaken with natural variation being applied to the crowd distributions and the PBIED output. Accurate mathematical representation of such complex phenomena is challenging, particularly as the code must be quick-running to be of use to the stakeholder community. In addition to discussing the background and motivation for the algorithm and GUI development, this document also discusses the steps taken to validate the tool and the plans for further functionality implementation.
Applying broadband terahertz time-domain spectroscopy to the analysis of crystalline proteins: a dehydration study
Authors: Tych Katarzyna M. , Burnett Andrew D. , Wood Christopher D. , Cunningham John E. , Pearson Arwen R. , Davies A. Giles , Linfield Edmund H.
Published: December 2010

The application of terahertz time-domain spectroscopy and imaging to the study of proteins in crystalline form is demonstrated. Terahertz time-domain spectroscopy is particularly sensitive to the long-range ordering of molecules, with proven utility for the spectroscopy of crystalline biological small molecules. Here, the terahertz time-domain absorption response of a macromolecular protein single crystal is investigated for the first time. In particular, the effect of dehydration on the terahertz absorption coefficient of tetragonal hen egg white lysozyme crystals is reported.
Bayesian approach to the Rietveld refinement of Poisson-distributed powder diffraction data
Authors: Bergmann J. , Monecke T.
Published: December 2010

The Rietveld method is based on a weighted least-squares fit of a model diffraction pattern to the step-scan data of a complete experimental X-ray or neutron diffraction pattern. It is shown here that the weight most commonly used in Rietveld refinement of powder diffraction data leads to a biased background estimate. To overcome this bias, an alternative method for refinement of Poisson-distributed experimental data is suggested that only involves changes of the input data and the weights of least-squares refinement. Model calculations demonstrate that this novel method allows an improved refinement of the parameters describing the background and the Bragg reflections. The proposed method can be readily implemented in existing Rietveld programs.
SAXSMorph: a program for generating representative morphologies for two-phase materials from small-angle X-ray and neutron scattering data
Authors: Ingham Bridget , Li Haiyong , Allen Emily L. , Toney Michael F.
Published: December 2010

SAXSMorphis a free computer analysis program that generates three-dimensional representative morphologies of two-phase systems using small-angle X-ray or neutron scattering data. The morphologies thus generated have the correct length scales and degree of connectivity with respect to the sample and are a useful visualization tool. The program also offers statistical analysis of the generated morphology.SAXSMorphis written in Java and is user friendly and platform independent.
Effect of necking on Czochralski-grown LiF crystals and its influence on crystalline perfection and the correlated physical properties
Authors: Bhagavannarayana G. , Kushwaha S. K. , Shakir Mohd. , Maurya K. K.
Published: December 2010

A bulk single crystal of lithium fluoride (LiF) was grown using an in-house-developed Czochralski crystal puller. The effect of necking on crystalline perfection, which in turn was found to influence the optical and dielectric properties, was studied. The crystalline perfection of the grown crystal was assessed along the length of the boule using high-resolution X-ray diffraction (HRXRD), and it was found that the grain boundaries that were present in the seed crystal were stopped gradually from propagating into the bulk crystal by necking. The UV–vis transparency of the crystal region having best crystalline perfection was found to be higher. Photoluminescence (PL) spectra revealed that a crystal region that was found to contain vacancy (point) defects by HRXRD yielded the maximum PL intensity because of color centers at the vacancies. The dielectric properties were also studied over a wide range of frequency.
Effects of habitat on individual reproductive success of mature male parr of Atlantic salmon Salmo salar
Authors: Grimardias D. , Merchermek N. , Manicki A. , Chebaux J. , Gaudin P. , Jarry M. , Beall E.
Published: December 2010

The effect of the presence of stone blocks in the spawning habitat on the reproductive success of mature male parr of Atlantic salmon Salmo salar of various sizes and ages was tested in an artificial channel. Shelters allowed smaller individuals to contribute to egg fertilization as much as large parr, suggesting that the size‐based dominance observed in a shelterless habitat was not maintained in a more complex habitat.
Rivers as islands: determinants of the distribution of Andean astroblepid catfishes
Authors: Schaefer S. A. , Arroyave J.
Published: December 2010

The distribution of astroblepids was examined using predictive niche modelling techniques to explore the physical and environmental factors responsible for determining the limits to their geographic distribution in the tropical Andes. Astroblepids occur in streams across a wide range of elevations (100–4600 m) and ecosystems from Panama to Bolivia, with most occurrences between 500 and 2000 m and associated with a narrow range of mean temperatures (17–24° C). The Maxent‐predicted distribution was 83% accurate, statistically significant (AUC = 0·965), and closely matched the known distribution, with few notable exceptions. Four environmental variables contributed a cumulative 84% to the prediction, with elevation the most important, followed by temperature seasonality, isothermality and maximum temperature of the warmest month. The greatest discrepancy between the predicted and known distributions involved areas of predicted habitat suitability where there are no associated occurrence records. A jackknife test of variable contribution to the model showed that elevation contributed to the predicted distribution in ways not simply accounted for by temperature. Contrary to expectations, land cover type and vegetation characteristics contributed relatively little to the model prediction.
Female reproductive biology of the bluemouth Helicolenus dactylopterus dactylopterus: spawning and fecundity
Authors: Muñoz M. , Dimitriadis C. , Casadevall M. , Vila S. , Delgado E. , Lloret J. , Saborido‐Rey F.
Published: December 2010

The bluemouth Helicolenus dactylopterus dactylopterus is a zygoparous species that spawns multiple batches of embryos enclosed within a gelatinous matrix. Oocyte development is asynchronous, and the recruitment of secondary growth oocytes occurs continuously during the developing phase, but stops before the start of the first spawning (i.e. fecundity is determinate). The number of developing oocytes can be estimated as a function of the total length of the fish, its ovary mass and its gonado‐somatic index. Only at the onset of spawning, when potential fecundity is determined, does condition also have a significant effect. The low levels of atresia detected during most of the spawning season show that this mechanism does not substantially affect the process. There is variability both in the spawning interval (with a mean of 2 days) and in the number of embryos comprising every single batch (up to 37 000). Expected effect of fisheries on the reproductive traits of this deep‐sea species is also discussed.
Enobarbus is a synonym of Lepidocephalichthys (Osteichthyes, Cobitidae)
Authors: Harant R. , Bohlen J.
Published: December 2010

External and internal morphological characters of the holotype of Enobarbus maculatus were examined and compared with those of other cobitid species to verify whether Enobarbus is a distinct genus. Analyses of radiographs demonstrated that the neural spines and the pterygiophores of the dorsal fin are of irregular shape, often doubled, reduced or bent. The holotype of E. maculatus bears an ossified structure on the last pectoral‐fin ray, a structure otherwise known only from males of the genus Lepidocephalichthys. In Lepidocephalichthys, the shape of the ossified structure is species‐specific, and the structure of Enobarbus is very similar to that of Lepidocephalichthys thermalis, the only other known species of the family Cobitidae occurring at the type locality of Enobarbus. Furthermore, the cranial and the axial skeleton of E. maculatus is similar to that of L. thermalis, except for the pterygiophores and the neural spines, that are strongly malformed in Enobarbus. In general, the results presented here show that the genus Enobarbus shares the most important characters (thickening of last two pectoral‐fin rays in males, structure of swimbladder capsule, shape of neurocranium and suborbital spine) with Lepidocephalichthys and that its long dorsal fin is correlated with strong malformations of the vertebral column and the fin ray insertions. Consequently, the only known specimen of Enobarbus is most likely a teratological male of L. thermalis, and Enobarbus is a junior synonym of Lepidocephalichthys.
Is It Good to be Gifted? The Social Construction of the Gifted Child
Authors: O’Connor Jane
Published: December 2010

There is growing evidence that children labelled as academically gifted are subjected to negative attitudes from others and that this impacts on their self‐esteem and motivation to succeed. Through an analysis of British newspaper stories about gifted children, this article explores the socially constructed nature of the concept of the ‘gifted child’ and finds that children identified as gifted academically are framed more negatively than those who are exceptionally able in music or sport. The article questions the growing practice of labelling children as academically gifted in English schools given the negative stereotypes that surround this classification.
Engaging Parents in Parentline Plus’ Time to Talk Community Programme as Part of England’s Teenage Pregnancy Strategy: Lessons for Policy and Practice
Authors: Cullen Mairi Ann , Davis Liz , Lindsay Geoff , Davis Hilton
Published: December 2010

Based on 65 interviews with professionals and parents conducted during 2007–2008, this 16‐month, mainly qualitative evaluation of Parentline Plus’ Time to Talk Community Programme (a preventative initiative within England’s teenage pregnancy strategy) found that a community development approach and an ethos of partnership with parents and professionals facilitated engagement. Respectful and realistic implementation involved skilled workers building relationships of trust. By consulting with other professionals and parents it was possible to establish local need and to build on existing provision. Initially, insufficient prior local consultation and negotiation created perceptions of an imposed initiative, led by outsiders, resulting in wary local parents and professionals. The engagement and evaluation processes are considered in relation to the short‐term nature of the initiative and potential conflicts between responding flexibly to the needs of parents and delivering targeted programmes.
Stevens–Johnson syndrome induced by acetazolamide
Authors: HER Young , KIL Min S. , PARK Ju H. , KIM Chul W. , KIM Sang S.
Published: December 2010

Acetazolamide is a sulfonamide derivative and carbonic anhydrase inhibitor used to lower intraocular pressure in glaucomatous patients. Stevens–Johnson syndrome (SJS) toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) associated with acetazolamide treatment has been diagnosed in Japanese, Japanese‐American and Indian patients. Herein, we report the second Korean case of SJS‐TEN associated with acetazolamide treatment. The result of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) typing of our patient was positive for HLA‐B59. According to recent research, HLA‐B59 has been detected in SJS caused by metazolamide, which is analogous to acetazolamide. This suggests a possible relationship between genetic background and SJS‐TEN‐associated acetazolamide treatment. Theretofore, acetazolamide should be prescribed to Korean patients with the same discreet caution.
Tinea corporis caused by Microsporum gallinae: First clinical case in Japan
Authors: MIYASATO Hitona , YAMAGUCHI Sayaka , TAIRA Kiyohito , HOSOKAWA Atsushi , KAYO Susumu , SANO Ayako , UEZATO Hiroshi , TAKAHASHI Kenzo
Published: December 2010

We report herein a case of tinea corporis caused by Microsporum gallinae in a 96‐year‐old, otherwise healthy Japanese man. The patient had a long working history as a breeder of fighting cocks, and he suffered from two erythematous macules after being bitten by a cock. M. gallinae was identified as the infectious agent based on the morphology of isolates cultured on slides and analysis of DNA sequences of the internal transcribed spacers (ITS) from ribosomal DNA from cultured isolates. The patient was successfully treated with antifungal ointments. To our knowledge, this is the first case of M. gallinae infection in a human reported in Japan.