bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi-chain slip-spring model for entangled polymer dynamics
Authors: Uneyama Takashi , Masubuchi Yuichi
Published: October 2012

It has been established that entangled polymer dynamics can be reasonably described by single chain models such as tube and slip-link models. Although the entanglement effect is a result of hard-core interaction between chains, linkage between the single chain models and the real multi-chain system has not been established yet. In this study, we propose a multi-chain slip-spring model where bead-spring chains are dispersed in space and connected by slip-springs inspired by the single chain slip-spring model [A. E. Likhtman, Macromolecules 38, 6128 (2005)10.1021/ma050399h]. In this model the entanglement effect is replaced by the slip-springs, not by the hard-core interaction between beads so that this model is located in the niche between conventional multi-chain simulations and single chain models. The set of state variables are the position of beads and the connectivity (indices) of the slip-springs between beads. The dynamics of the system is described by the time evolution equation and stochastic transition dynamics for these variables. We propose a simple model which is based on the well-defined total free-energy and detailed balance condition. The free energy in our model contains a repulsive interaction between beads, which compensate the attractive interaction artificially generated by the slip-springs. The explicit expression of linear relaxation modulus is also derived by the linear response theory. We also propose a possible numerical scheme to perform simulations. Simulations reproduced expected bead number dependence in transitional regime between Rouse and entangled dynamics for the chain structure, the central bead diffusion, and the linear relaxation modulus.
Time-averaging approximation in the interaction picture: Anisotropy of vibrational pump-probe experiments for coupled chromophores with application to liquid water
Authors: Yang Mino
Published: October 2012

A time-averaging approximation method developed to efficiently calculate the short-time dynamics of coupled vibrational chromophores using mixed quantum/classical theories is extended in order to be applicable to the study of vibrational dynamics at longer time scales. A quantum mechanical time propagator for long times is decomposed into the product of short-time propagators, and a time-averaging approximation is then applied to each of the latter. Using the extended time-averaging approximation, we calculate the anisotropy decay of the data obtained from impulsive vibrational pump-probe experiments on the OH stretching modes of water, which is in excellent agreement with numerically exact results.
How intermolecular charge transfer influences the air-water interface
Authors: Wick Collin D. , Lee Alexis J. , Rick Steven W.
Published: October 2012

The interfacial properties of three water models that allow for intermolecular charge rearrangement were examined with molecular dynamics simulations. They included the TIP4P water model, the TIP4P-FQ water model, which recently were modified to include intermolecular charge transfer [A. J. Lee and S. W. Rick, J. Chem. Phys. 134, 184507 (2011)10.1063/1.3589419]. Furthermore, another model with intermolecular charge transfer was developed for this work that was both flexible and polarizable. The effect of including intermolecular charge transfer is modest on most interfacial properties, including surface tension, electrostatic potential, interfacial dipole, and structure. However, a negative charge was found to build up at the air-water interface, but much smaller than has been measured experimentally.
Nanopatterned front contact for broadband absorption in ultra-thin amorphous silicon solar cells
Authors: Massiot Inès , Colin Clément , Péré-Laperne Nicolas , Roca i Cabarrocas Pere , Sauvan Christophe , Lalanne Philippe , Pelouard Jean-Luc , Collin Stéphane
Published: October 2012

Broadband light trapping is numerically demonstrated in ultra-thin solar cells composed of a flat amorphous silicon absorber layer deposited on a silver mirror. A one-dimensional silver array is used to enhance light absorption in the visible spectral range with low polarization and angle dependencies. In addition, the metallic nanowires play the role of transparent electrodes. We predict a short-circuit current density of 14.6 mA/cm2 for a solar cell with a 90 nm-thick amorphous silicon absorber layer.
Effect of pre-tension on the peeling behavior of a bio-inspired nano-film and a hierarchical adhesive structure
Authors: Peng Zhilong , Chen Shaohua
Published: October 2012

Inspired by the reversible adhesion behaviors of geckos, the effects of pre-tension in a bio-inspired nano-film and a hierarchical structure on adhesion are studied theoretically. In the case with a uniformly distributing pre-tension in a spatula-like nano-film under peeling, a closed-form solution to a critical peeling angle is derived, below or above which the peel-off force is enhanced or reduced, respectively, compared with the case without pre-tension. The effects of a non-uniformly distributing pre-tension on adhesion are further investigated for both a spatula-like nano-film and a hierarchical structure-like gecko's seta. Compared with the case without pre-tension, the pre-tension, no matter uniform or non-uniform, can increase the adhesion force not only for the spatula-like nano-film but also for the hierarchical structure at a small peeling angle, while decrease it at a relatively large peeling angle. Furthermore, if the pre-tension is large enough, the effective adhesion energy of a hierarchical structure tends to vanish at a critical peeling angle, which results in spontaneous detachment of the hierarchical structure from the substrate. The present theoretical predictions can not only give some explanations on the existing experimental observation that gecko's seta always detaches at a specific angle and no apparent adhesion force can be detected above the critical angle but also provide a deep understanding for the reversible adhesion mechanism of geckos and be helpful to the design of biomimetic reversible adhesives.
Communication: Quantitative estimate of the water surface pH using heterodyne-detected electronic sum frequency generation
Authors: Yamaguchi Shoichi , Kundu Achintya , Sen Pratik , Tahara Tahei
Published: October 2012

Most chemical reactions in water are very sensitive to pH. Many environmentally important chemical reactions are known to take place at the water surface (i.e., air/water interface). However, the pH of the water surface is still controversial. Spectroscopic experiments and theoretical calculations indicate that the water surface is more acidic than the bulk, whereas electrophoretic experiments provide a contrary view. Here, we report that a novel nonlinear optical experiment with a surface-active pH indicator can quantitatively evaluate the pH of the water surface. The result clearly shows that the pH of the water surface is lower than that of the bulk by 1.7. This is the first study to apply a principle of bulk pH measurements to the water surface, and therefore provides a reliable experimental estimate for the pH difference between the water surface and bulk. It is considered that the higher acidity of the water surface plays a key role in marine and atmospheric chemical reactions.
From fabrication to mode mapping in silicon nitride microdisks with embedded colloidal quantum dots
Authors: De Geyter Bram , Komorowska Katarzyna , Brainis Edouard , Emplit Philippe , Geiregat Pieter , Hassinen Antti , Hens Zeger , Van Thourhout Dries
Published: October 2012

We report on the fabrication of free-standing and optically active microdisks with cadmium-based colloidal quantum dots embedded directly into silicon nitride. We show that the process optimization results in low-loss silicon nitride microdisks. The Si3N4 matrix provides the stability necessary to preserve the optical properties of the quantum dots and observe efficient coupling of the photoluminescence to the resonating microdisk modes. Using a spectrally and spatially resolved microphotoluminescence measurement, we map the emission pattern from the microdisk. This technique allows us to identify the resonant modes. The results show good agreement with numerical mode simulations.
Non-linear saturation mechanism of electron temperature gradient modes
Authors: Tokluoglu E. K. , Sokolov V. , Sen A. K.
Published: October 2012

The electron temperature gradient (ETG) mode is a very plausible candidate to explain the large electron particle transport and thermal conduction. Production and identification of slab ETG modes and measurement electron transport have been already reported [X. Wei, V. Sokolov, and A. K. Sen, Phys. Plasmas 17, 042108 (2010); V. Sokolov and A. K. Sen, Phys. Rev. Lett. (2011)]. Now, we develop a theoretical model of non-linear saturation mechanism of ETG mode based on the three wave coupling of an unstable high frequency ETG mode with a damped ETG radial harmonic and a damped ion acoustic (IA) mode. Bicoherence analysis of Columbia linear machine (CLM) data show coupling between ETG modes (∼2.4 MHz) and a low frequency mode (∼50 kHz). The large damping drive of the ETG radial harmonic accompanied by the smaller but finite damping of the IA mode presents an energy sink for the unstable ETG mode, thus causing saturation. This model predicts a saturation level of ∼10% and agrees with the observed levels of ETG modes in the CLM.
Free boundary ballooning mode representation
Authors: Zheng L. J.
Published: October 2012

A new type of ballooning mode invariance is found in this paper. Application of this invariance is shown to be able to reduce the two-dimensional problem of free boundary high n modes, such as the peeling-ballooning modes, to a one-dimensional problem. Here, n is toroidal mode number. In contrast to the conventional ballooning representation, which requires the translational invariance of the Fourier components of the perturbations, the new invariance reflects that the independent solutions of the high n mode equations are translationally invariant from one radial interval surrounding a single singular surface to the other intervals. The conventional ballooning mode invariance breaks down at the vicinity of plasma edge, since the Fourier components with rational surfaces in vacuum region are completely different from those with rational surfaces in plasma region. But, the new type of invariance remains valid. This overcomes the limitation of the conventional ballooning mode representation for studying free boundary modes.
An ultra-fast superconducting Nb nanowire single-photon detector for soft x-rays
Authors: Inderbitzin K. , Engel A. , Schilling A. , Il'in K. , Siegel M.
Published: October 2012

Although superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors (SNSPDs) are well studied regarding the detection of infrared/optical photons and keV-molecules, no studies on continuous x-ray photon counting by thick-film detectors have been reported so far. We fabricated a 100 nm thick niobium x-ray SNSPD (an X-SNSPD) and studied its detection capability of photons with keV-energies in continuous mode. The detector is capable to detect photons even at reduced bias currents of 0.4%, which is in sharp contrast to optical thin-film SNSPDs. No dark counts were recorded in extended measurement periods. Strikingly, the signal amplitude distribution depends significantly on the photon energy spectrum.
The physical phenomena accompanying the sub-nanosecond high-voltage pulsed discharge in nitrogen
Authors: Levko D. , Tarasenko V. F. , Krasik Ya. E.
Published: October 2012

Results of one-dimensional Particle-in-Cell numerical simulations of mechanism of sub-nanosecond high-voltage pulsed discharge in nitrogen are presented. It is shown that the decrease of the cathode-anode gap changes drastically both the discharge dynamics and mechanism of runaway electrons generation responsible for the discharge initiation. It is obtained that the virtual cathode exists only during tens of picoseconds for short gaps. The conditions when the virtual cathode is not formed are found. Also, the comparison between the experimental [Rybka et al., Tech. Phys. Lett. 38, 653 (2012)] and simulation results indicates the dominant role of the virtual cathode in termination of runaway electrons generation and on separate nature of emission sources from the cathode surface.
Molecular orientation change during adsorption of NO and N2O on Ir(111) observed by real-time wavelength-dispersive x-ray absorption spectroscopy with polarization switching
Authors: Amemiya Kenta , Sakamaki Masako , Nakamoto Shuichi , Yoshida Masaaki , Suzuki Kazuma , Kondoh Hiroshi , Koide Tsuneharu , Ito Kenji , Tsuchiya Kimichika , Harada Kentaro , Sasaki Hiroyuki , Aoto Tomohiro , Shioya Tatsuro , Obina Takashi , Yamamoto Shigeru , Kobayashi Yukinori
Published: October 2012

The molecular orientation of NO and N2O during adsorption on Ir(111) is observed by combining the wavelength-dispersive x-ray absorption spectroscopy with 1 Hz switching between the vertical and horizontal linear polarizations. It is revealed that NO adsorbs keeping its molecular axis at ∼20° from surface normal. In contrast, N2O rapidly adsorbs up to 2/3 of the saturation coverage with an orientation angle of ∼35°, then turns to a slow adsorption phase with larger orientation angles, and gradually reaches its saturation with an average orientation angle of ∼45°. Such a complicated behavior is interpreted by assuming different adsorption sites.
Verification of the physical mechanism of THz generation by dual-color ultrashort laser pulses
Authors: Li Min , Li Wenxue , Shi Yi , Lu Peifen , Pan Haifeng , Zeng Heping
Published: October 2012

We experimentally verified the physical mechanism of the dual-color ultrashort laser-driven THz wave generation in air by measuring its dependence on the dual-color field phase difference. Our results evidenced that the THz generation from the laser-induced plasma is dominated by the photo-current mechanism. A continuous rotation of THz polarization was observed by changing the dual-color phase difference, facilitating coherent control of the THz intensity and polarization.
Formation of nanoscale magnetic bubbles in ferromagnetic insulating manganite La7/8Sr1/8MnO3
Authors: Nagai T. , Nagao M. , Kurashima K. , Asaka T. , Zhang W. , Kimoto K.
Published: October 2012

We have observed the response of spin arrangements to external magnetic fields in a multiorbital Mott insulator, ferromagnetic insulating manganite La7/8Sr1/8MnO3, by low-temperature in situ Lorentz microscopy. Magnetic fields normal to the plane of the thin-plate sample continuously change the width of domains in the serpentine-like domain structure, eventually giving rise to nanoscale elliptical magnetic bubbles of ∼200 nm major diameter at 3.6 kOe. The formation of these bubbles implies large magnetic anisotropy related to the orbital ordering and suggests the possibility of manipulating the bubbles using an electric field.
Encouraging participation in health system reform: is clinical engagement a useful concept for policy and management?
Authors: Bonias Dimitra , Leggat Sandra G. , Bartram Timothy
Published: October 2012

Objective. Recent health system enquiries and commissions, including the National Health and Hospital Reform Commission, have promoted clinical engagement as necessary for improving the Australian healthcare system. In fact, the Rudd Government identified clinician engagement as important for the success of the planned health system reform. Yet there is uncertainty about how clinical engagement is understood in health policy and management. This paper aims to clarify how clinical engagement is defined, measured and how it might be achieved in policy and management in Australia. Methods. We review the literature and consider clinical engagement in relation to employee engagement, a defined construct within the management literature. We consider the structure and employment relationships of the public health sector in assessing the relevance of this literature. Conclusions. Based on the evidence, we argue that clinical engagement is similar to employee engagement, but that engagement of clinicians who are employees requires a different construct to engagement of clinicians who are independent practitioners. The development of this second construct is illustrated using the case of Visiting Medical Officers in Victoria. Implications. Antecedent organisational and system conditions to clinical engagement appear to be lacking in the Australian public health system, suggesting meaningful engagement will be difficult to achieve in the short-term. This has the potential to threaten proposed reforms of the Australian healthcare system. What is known about the topic? Engagement of clinicians has been identified as essential for improving quality and safety, as well as successful health system reform, but there is little understanding of how to define and measure this engagement. What does this paper add? Clinical engagement is defined as the cognitive, emotional and physical contribution of health professionals to their jobs, and to improving their organisation and their health system within their working roles in their employing health service. While this construct applies to employees, engagement of independent practitioners is a different construct that needs to recognise out-of-role requirements for clinicians to become engaged in organisational and system reform. What are the implications for practitioners? This paper advances our understanding of clinical engagement, and suggests that based on research on high performance work systems, the Australian health system has a way to go before the antecedents of engagement are in place.
Chronic disease management: does the disease affect likelihood of care planning?
Authors: Vitry Agnes I. , Roughead Elizabeth E. , Ramsay Emmae N. , Ryan Philip , Caughey Gillian E. , Esterman Adrian , Shakib Sepehr , Gilbert Andrew L. , McDermott Robyn
Published: October 2012

Objective. To compare the demographic, socioeconomic, and medical characteristics of patients who had a General Practitioner Management Plan (GPMP) with those for patients without GPMP. Methods. Cohort study of patients with chronic diseases during the time period 1 July 2006 to 30 June 2008 using the Australian Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) claims database. Results. Of the 88 128 veterans with chronic diseases included in the study, 23 015 (26%) veterans had a GPMP and 11 089 (13%) had a Team Care Arrangement (TCA). Those with a GPMP had a higher number of comorbidities (P < 0.001), and a higher use of services such as health assessment and medicine review (P < 0.001) than did those without GPMP. Diabetes was associated with a significantly increased use of GPMP compared with all other chronic diseases except heart failure. Conclusions. GPMPs are used in a minority of patients with chronic diseases. Use is highest in people with diabetes. What is known about the topic? Despite the fact that the Chronic Disease Management (CDM) program is appreciated by patients and allied health professionals, limited research has assessed how it is used in practice. What does this paper add? In the Veteran population, use of a General Practitioner Management Plan (GPMP) was associated with a higher number of comorbidities and of prior hospitalisations. Across chronic diseases use of GPMPs was low but was higher in people with diabetes. What are the implications for practitioners? Further research into the effect of CDM program on improvement of health outcomes is required.
Monitoring immigrant health and wellbeing in New Zealand: addressing the tyranny of misleading averages
Authors: Horner Jed , Ameratunga Shanthi N.
Published: October 2012

The importance of monitoring immigrant health and wellbeing outcomes following (re)settlement is acknowledged at a global level. Whilst many countries, including New Zealand, have adopted settlement strategies for the purposes of facilitating the integration of immigrants, measuring the success of such strategies is often hampered by two factors. The first is inadequate, and sometimes nonexistent, data pertaining to immigrant populations across a range of health and wellbeing indicators, and the second is the highly politicised nature of research in this area. This paper discusses these twin challenges in relation to New Zealand’s Settlement National Action Plan adopted in 2007 and other relevant social policy documents. It argues that the absence of consistently collected and reported country of birth data in public health settings inhibits the ability of immigrant health and wellbeing advocates to monitor the progress of government and other agencies in achieving the goals of the Action Plan specifically, and social policy more broadly. In order to address this situation, routine collection, disaggregation and reporting of country of birth data across the public health system and further investment in research on immigrant populations in New Zealand is recommended.
Healthcare-associated infections: getting the balance right in safety and quality v. public reporting
Authors: Mitchell Brett G. , Gardner Anne , McGregor Alistair
Published: October 2012

Healthcare settings are dangerous places. For those receiving care, the risk of unintended harm from healthcare failures continues to be significant. Given this, there is a need to monitor standards in healthcare, not only to identify potential issues, but also to plan and evaluate interventions aimed at improving healthcare standards. Public reporting of performance standards is one aspect to monitoring standards, but not the only one. Public reporting also brings with it challenges. This perspective explores the recent move to publicly report one healthcare-associated infection (HAI) on the MyHospitals website and comments on the broader issue of using existing HAI data for the purposes of public reporting.
Cu(OAc)2-Mediated Cross-Coupling Reaction of Benzophenone N,N,N-Trimethylhydrazonium Salts and Aryl Boronic Acids
Authors: Kitamura Mitsuru , Tokuda Yu , Tashiro Norifumi , Okauchi Tatsuo
Published: October 2012

Cu(OAc)2-mediated coupling of benzophenone N,N,N-trimethylhydrazonium salts and aryl boronic acids proceeded to afford N-aryl imines.
A Simple and Sensitive Colorimetric Detection of Silver Ions Based on Cationic Polymer-Directed AuNPs Aggregation
Authors: Wang Faze , Wu Yuangen , Zhan Shenshan , He Lan , Zhi Wenting , Zhou Xiaoxuan , Zhou Pei
Published: October 2012

This paper describes a simple and sensitive colorimetric sensor employing single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) ligand, cationic polymer, and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) to detect silver ions. The positively charged polymer can electrostatically interact with ssDNA and destroy the charge balance leading to induction of AuNP aggregation. Silver ions (Ag+) can bind to cytosine (C)-rich nucleic acids to form the C-Ag+-C hair-pin structure, which can prevent its interaction with polymers. The resulting cationic polymer could aggregate AuNPs causing a remarkable change in colour. The concentration of Ag+ can be determined visually. This sensing platform exhibits high sensitivity and selectivity towards Ag+ versus other metal ions, with a detection limit of 48.6 nM. The assay did not require any labelling or modifying steps. This method is simple, effective, and convenient and can in principle be used to detect other metal ions or small molecules.
The Four Seasons approach to the management of modern HIV medicine in high-income countries
Authors: Wright Edwina J.
Published: October 2012

The Four Seasons and modern HIV medicine in high-income countries: a screening and management approach of non-AIDS illnesses.
Increasing gay men’s testing rates and enhancing partner notification can reduce the incidence of syphilis
Authors: Down Ian , Wilson David P. , McCann Pol Dominic , Gray Richard , Hoare Alexander , Bradley Jack , Donovan Basil , Prestage Garrett
Published: October 2012

Background We sought to determine whether gay men would be willing to increase syphilis testing and partner notification, and assessed the possible epidemiological impact these changes might have in the Australian population. Methods: We conducted an online survey (n = 2306) and focus groups to determine whether interventions to increase testing for syphilis and enhanced partner notification are likely to be acceptable to gay men in Australia. An individual-based mathematical model was developed to estimate the potential population-level impact of changes in these factors. Results: Of all men surveyed, 37.3% felt they should test more frequently for sexually transmissible infections. Men who recent unprotected anal intercourse with casual partners and men who reported a higher number of partners were more likely to indicate a greater willingness to increase testing frequency. HIV-positive men were more likely to indicate that their frequency of syphilis testing was adequate, incorporated as part of their regular HIV monitoring. Lack of convenience was the main barrier reported. Partner notification was broadly acceptable, although perceived stigma presented a potential barrier. The mathematical model indicated that increasing testing rates would have a substantial impact on reducing rates of syphilis infection among gay men and partner notification would further reduce infections. Conclusions: Interventions promoting testing for syphilis among gay men and increases in partner notification may be acceptable to gay men and are likely to result in decreased infection rates. Rapid testing and modern communication technologies could strengthen these interventions, and have an impact on the syphilis epidemic.
Prevalence and correlates of HIV discordance and concordance among Chinese - Burmese mixed couples in the Dehong prefecture of Yunnan province, China
Authors: Duan Song , Ding Yingying , Yang Yuecheng , Lu Lin , Sun Jiangping , Wang Ning , Wang Lu , Xiang Lifen , Jia Manhong , Wu Zunyou , He Na
Published: October 2012

Background
Many people from Burma have migrated to Dehong prefecture and married local residents during the past decades; however, little is known about HIV risk-taking behaviours and HIV prevalence among these mixed couples. We investigated factors correlated with HIV discordance and concordance within Chinese–Burmese mixed couples in Dehong prefecture, Yunnan province, China. Methods: A cross-sectional study with face-to-face questionnaire interviews and HIV blood testing was conducted. Results: Of 5742 couples, 1.6% couples were HIV-infected concordant, 2.2% were HIV serodiscordant with an HIV-infected male spouse and 0.9% were HIV serodiscordant with an HIV-infected female spouse. HIV discordance with an HIV-infected male spouse was significantly associated with characteristics of the male spouse, including being aged ≥30 years, non-Han ethnic minority, a marital relationship of <3 years, commercial sex and injection drug use by the male spouse. HIV discordance with an HIV-infected female spouse was significantly associated with an education level of primary school (v. illiterate); a marital status of being in their second marriage, widowed or divorced; a history of sexually transmissible infection diagnosis of the female spouse; noncommercial extramarital sex by the female spouse or by both spouses; and injection drug use by the male spouse. A marital relationship of ≥3 years was the only significant independent correlate of HIV-infected seroconcordance. Conclusions: The study findings underscore the importance of premarital HIV counselling and testing for this population, and the need for targeted interventions among HIV serodiscordant mixed couples to reduce secondary transmission as early as possible when the relationship begins.
Sexual health and the Rugby World Cup 2011: a cross-sectional study of sexual health clinics in New Zealand
Authors: Psutka Rebecca , Priest Patricia , Dickson Nigel , Connor Jennie , Azariah Sunita , Kennedy Jane , Morgan Jane , McIlraith Jill
Published: October 2012

Background
We aimed to describe the characteristics of sexual health clinic (SHC) attendance and sexually transmissible infection (STI) diagnoses during the Rugby World Cup (RWC) in New Zealand in 2011. Methods: SHC attendance and STI diagnoses around the time of the RWC were compared with the 5 preceding years. A cross-sectional survey conducted at SHCs in four New Zealand cities collected information from attendees having RWC-related sex. Results: Although there was no statistically significant increase in clinic attendance or STI diagnoses during the RWC compared with previous years, in these four cities, 151 individuals of 2079 attending SHCs for a new concern reported RWC-related sex. The most frequently diagnosed STIs were chlamydial infection (Chlamydia trachomatis), genital warts and genital herpes. Most attendees (74%) who had RWC-related sex had consumed three or more alcoholic drinks; 22% had used a condom. Seven percent of women reported nonconsensual sex. RWC-related sex was associated with an increased risk of STI diagnoses in men: gonorrhoea (Neisseria gonorrhoeae): relative risk (RR) = 4.9 (95% confidence interval (CI): 2.1–11.4); nonspecific urethritis: RR = 2.8 (95% CI: 1.3–5.9); chlamydial infection: RR = 1.8 (95% CI: 1.1–2.9). Using a condom was associated with a reduced risk (RR = 0.3, 95% CI: 0.1–0.9) of diagnosis with any STI among those having RWC-related sex. Conclusions: These findings highlight issues that are amenable to prevention. The continued promotion of condoms as well as a reduction in the promotion and availability of alcohol at such events may reduce sexual health risks as well as other harm.
Lightning and fire weather in eastern coastal fynbos shrublands: seasonality and long-term trends
Authors: Kraaij Tineke , Cowling Richard M. , van Wilgen Brian W.
Published: October 2012

Daily weather data (since 1939) from four localities in the south-eastern, coastal part of the Cape Floral Kingdom (‘south-eastern-CFK’) were used to calculate daily fire danger indices (FDIs). Cloud-to-ground lightning strike distributions (2006–10) were explored for geographical and temporal trends. Low or moderate fire danger conditions were the norm year round, and even large fires occurred under these conditions. Lightning occurred throughout the landscape at fairly low densities (mean = 0.4 strikes km–2 year–1) and in all seasons, increasing somewhat during summer. Lightning presence increased with increasing rainfall, relative humidity, temperature and wind speed. Lightning seasonality in the south-eastern-CFK did not differ from that in the south-western-CFK. Our results provide evidence of a largely aseasonal fire regime in eastern coastal fynbos shrublands: FDIs peaked in winter (due to low rainfall and hot, dry katabatic winds) but were not associated with a winter fire regime; lightning and the co-occurrence of lightning and elevated FDIs were aseasonal and were correlated with the incidence of lightning-ignited fires throughout the year. The implication for management is that season of burn is largely unimportant. Mean annual FDI increased significantly over the study period, a trend which is likely to manifest in increased frequency and severity of fire, some of which has already been observed.
Fish Community Response to Habitat Alteration: Impacts of Sand Dredging in the Kansas River
Authors: Fischer Jason , Paukert Craig , Daniels Melinda
Published: October 2012

Instream dredging, a common practice in rivers worldwide, can affect fish and fish habitat. We investigated the magnitude of these alterations and their influence on the fish community of the Kansas River, a large sand‐bed river. Fishes were collected monthly from June 2010 to June 2011 in Edwardsville and Lawrence, Kansas, from 12 reaches of three types: 3 actively dredged, 2 historically dredged (i.e., not been dredged for at least 1 month before sampling), and 7 nondredged control reaches. The reaches, each 1 km long, were sampled with bottom trawls, seines, and electrofishing. Water depths and velocities at all 12 reaches were measured with an acoustic doppler current profiler and interpolated in ArcGIS. Actively dredged reaches had proportionally more deepwater habitat (>3 m) and low velocity (<0.15 m/s) near the riverbed than control reaches. However, the mean proportion of shallow‐water habitat (<0.5 m), high velocities near the riverbed (>0.30 m/s), low‐velocity habitat (<0.25 m/s), and high‐velocity habitat (>0.75 m/s) were similar among all reach types. A canonical correspondence analysis was used to characterize relationships among habitat variables, the three reach types, and CPUE. Mean velocity and depth explained a significant amount of variation in species CPUE; however, reach type was not a significant factor for any of the gear types for any season. Our results show that dredging in Great Plains rivers can increase depths, but alterations to fish community structure was not evident, probably because many of these fishes are adapted to a range of habitat conditions and are highly mobile.
Landscape Genetics Reveals Population Subdivision in Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Pacific Cod
Authors: Spies Ingrid
Published: October 2012

Landscape genetics of Pacific cod Gadus macrocephalus within the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands (BSAI) management area of Alaska was examined in samples from nine spawning locations, including one temporal replicate sample, using 17 microsatellite DNA markers. This study examined fine‐scale population structure of Pacific cod in the BSAI with the goal of identifying breaks in genetic continuity associated with physical barriers to migration and larval transport. Samples were taken from spawning fish collected from the western Aleutian Islands east to Unimak Pass and as far north as the Pribilof Islands. Overall, this work confirms previous studies, which found that genetic differentiation between samples is proportional to the distance between them, and also resolves population structure on a scale not previously possible. Results indicate that dispersal is not continuous at a fine scale and several distinct genetic groups were identified that correspond to differences in the physical environment of the BSAI. The data provide evidence for limited connectivity among spawning groups; in particular, there is evidence that a barrier exists between the Aleutian Islands and the eastern Bering Sea. In addition, analysis of molecular variance and Monmonier algorithm results suggest that, within the Bering Sea, the Unimak Pass and Pribilof Islands spawning groups may be distinct from each other, and the Wombling analysis indicates that samples west of Amchitka Pass in the western Aleutians may be distinct from those in the eastern Aleutians.
Migratory Variation in Mackenzie River System Broad Whitefish: Insights from Otolith Strontium Distributions
Authors: Harris L. N. , Loewen T. N. , Reist J. D. , Halden N. M. , Babaluk J. A. , Tallman R. F.
Published: October 2012

There is growing recognition of the global importance of preserving biodiversity. While many organisms show immense variation in intraspecific biodiversity, for example in life history variation and migratory strategies among conspecific populations, accurate descriptions of such variation are lacking for the majority of contemporary species. One such example is the broad whitefishCoregonus nasusof the lower Mackenzie River system in Canada's Northwest Territories, where anadromous, lacustrine, and putative riverine populations are thought to exist. In this study we resolve migratory variation exhibited by lower Mackenzie River broad whitefish by employing otolith microchemistry and find that (1) anadromous, lacustrine, and riverine populations exist in this system, (2) a high degree of variability exists within anadromous broad whitefish (e.g., varying degrees of marine and estuarine use), and (3) lacustrine populations are not composed solely of resident fish as anadromous broad whitefish occasionally migrate to, and stay in, lacustrine habitat. Overall, our results are consistent with the suggestion that there may be a higher level of migratory complexity in this system than previously reported and these results will be important in guiding the conservation of intraspecific biodiversity in Mackenzie River system broad whitefish.
Detection of Threatened Delta Smelt in the Gut Contents of the Invasive Mississippi Silverside in the San Francisco Estuary Using TaqMan Assays
Authors: Baerwald Melinda R. , Schreier Brian M. , Schumer Gregg , May Bernie
Published: October 2012

In the San Francisco Estuary, predation of the threatened delta smelt Hypomesus transpacificus by the invasive Mississippi silverside Menidia audens has been hypothesized but unconfirmed in the wild due to difficulties in reliably identifying egg or larval fish remains in gut contents. This study describes the use of TaqMan assays to examine the gut contents of wild Mississippi silversides for the presence of delta smelt DNA. The species‐specific delta smelt assay was found to be highly sensitive and, in feeding trial experiments, capable of detecting delta smelt DNA in Mississippi silverside gut contents up to 36 h postingestion for some individuals. A substantial percentage (41%) of the 37 Mississippi silversides caught in the wild with midchannel trawling were positive for delta smelt DNA in their gut contents. Conversely, none of the 614 Mississippi silversides caught in the wild in nearshore beach seining contained delta smelt DNA in their gut contents.
Conflict resolution after the 2008 Georgia–Russia War: the Taiwan and Kosovo models as tools for mobilization and comparison
Authors: Coppieters Bruno
Published: October 2012

The Taiwan model of conflict transformation and the Kosovo model of conflict settlement have specific features, and are useful for analyzing the Georgian and Russian policies toward Abkhazia and South Ossetia. There is a similarity between the Georgian strategy of engagement and the Taiwan model, with its declared readiness to interact with the other party regardless of any setbacks arising over the issue of status. Unlike the Taiwan model, however, the Georgian strategy includes no concrete view on how to involve the authorities controlling the breakaway territories or, in particular, how to have a positive impact on their relations with the outside world. A comparison between the Kosovo model and Russian policies toward these two entities demonstrates that, in deciding to recognize Abkhazia and South Ossetia, Moscow largely drew on the moral and legal arguments put forward for the recognition of Kosovo. Russia has established political oversight over these entities, to a certain extent mirroring the Western policy of supervised independence for Kosovo. But Russia is still unable to adopt a conflict resolution policy toward Abkhazia, South Ossetia, and Georgia that is based on regional integration prospects, in contrast to Western policies toward the Balkans.
The August 2008 war: main consequences for Georgia and its conflicts
Authors: Nodia Ghia
Published: October 2012

The purpose of this paper is to take stock of the major political consequences that the August 2008 war had (or did not have) for Georgia: how the war affected Georgia's internal political dynamics and its policies toward its separatist conflicts, its neighbors, and the world. I start by briefly summarizing my views on the nature of and reasons for the war, and on its impact (or the lack thereof) on the global security architecture. These constitute the backdrop against which changes in Georgia can be understood.
Nationalism in the Russian media: content analysis of newspaper coverage surrounding conflict in Stavropol, 24 May–7 June 2007
Authors: Schenk Caress
Published: October 2012

This paper considers the role of Russian print media and government in forming and publicizing nationalist sentiment through a content analysis of newspaper coverage of ethnic conflict in Stavropol in 2007. It shows that though the government officially pursues an inclusive multicultural approach (which I call associative nationalism), newspapers owned by Kremlin-loyal business holdings printed quite nationalist and sensationalist versions of the events in question. I argue that this is a passive promotion of a dissociative type of nationalism on the part of the Kremlin, which works against its stated purposes of bringing together all those in the Russian territory into a united national identity.
Making states and breaking states: Kosovo and the Caucasus in 2008: Introduction
Authors: Suny Ronald Grigor , Cheterian Vicken
Published: October 2012

Two events in 2008 shaped the political map of the Caucasus: the West's decision on the independence of Kosovo and the Russo-Georgian War. First, on 17 February, Kosovo authorities unilaterally declared the independence of what was at the time a UN protectorate. This declaration enjoyed much support in the West, including near-immediate recognition by key states such as the US, Germany, France, the UK, and a dozen others. But it also faced strong opposition from Serbia and Russia and strong skepticism from prowestern countries such as Georgia. Russia opposed not only the Kosovo declaration itself but more importantly the western adoption of it. From the Russian perspective, by supporting Kosovo's accession to sovereignty western states were violating the rules set at the moment of collapse of the federal states of Yugoslavia and the Soviet Union: to invite the former union republics to join the international clubs of sovereign states, but not extend such invitation to any other sub-units. In other words, Azerbaijan, Croatia, Kazakhstan, and Russia became members of the United Nations, but sub-entities like Chechnya, Kosovo, or Tatarstan did not receive the same recognition.
Problem areas for the new Turkish foreign policy
Authors: Zarakol Ayşe
Published: October 2012

Given its economic success and the political transformations of the last decade, it is not surprising that Turkey is now charting an ambitious course in foreign policy. This article provides a sober assessment of some of the shortcomings becoming evident in Turkish foreign policy, and argues that if these problems are not addressed, Turkey is due to fall short of its regional leadership ambitions.
Myxobolus neurotropus Infecting Rainbow Trout in Alaska, a New Geographic Record
Authors: Bentz Collette R. , Hogge Carla I. , Meyers Theodore R. , Ferguson Jayde A.
Published: October 2012

The Alaska Department of Fish and Game fish pathology laboratory received a rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss from the Alaska Peninsula that was suspected of having whirling disease based on the display of aberrant swimming behavior and a deformed spine. We tested for Myxobolus cerebralis using standard pepsin–trypsin digest and molecular procedures, which yielded negative results. However, many oval shaped myxospores were observed in brain smears and were confirmed to be those of the morphologically similar M. neurotropus based on a diagnostic assay using PCR. The known geographic distribution of this parasite includes Idaho, Washington, Utah, Oregon, California, and now, Alaska. Whether this species is an emerging parasite is not known because it was only described a few years ago. Given the severe infection found in this rainbow trout, perhaps the considerable displacement of neurological tissues and subsequent pressure on peripheral nerves could have contributed to the spinal curvature and accompanied abnormal swimming. Conversely, the M. neurotropus infection may have been incidental and the spinal deformity may have actually been due to one of several nonspecific developmental or congenital causes. Further studies on geographic distribution and impact on host fitness will probably determine the importance of this species to fish health.

Received March 1, 2012; accepted June 15, 2012
Eight weeks of dynamic stretching during warm‐ups improves jump power but not repeated or single sprint performance
Authors: Turki‐Belkhiria Lamia , Chaouachi Anis , Turki Olfa , Chtourou Hamdi , Chtara Moktar , Chamari Karim , Amri Mohamed , Behm David G.
Published: October 2012

There is abundant research involving the acute effects of stretching on subsequent performance; however, there is little information on dynamic stretch training programmes on range of motion (ROM), power and speed measures. It was the objective of this research to examine the training consequences of active dynamic stretching (ADS) and static dynamic stretching (SDS). A repeated measures design compared the effects of 8 weeks of warm‐ups incorporating two dynamic stretch modalities: ADS and SDS on squat jump (SJ), countermovement jump (CMJ), 20‐m sprint performances and repeated sprint ability (RSA) and hip ROM in 37 male soccer players. SJ height (SDS: 4.6%; ADS: 5.3%; p <0.05), CMJ height (SDS: 5.3%; ADS: 3.4%; p<0.05), CMJ force (SDS: 7.2%; ADS: 12.7%; p<0.001) and CMJ peak power (SDS: 3.9%; ADS: 3.3%; p<0.05) increased significantly after SDS and ADS training compared to the control group (no significant change). Sprint performance and RSA were not affected by either of the dynamic stretch training regimens. The SDS and ADS training programmes elicited similar improvements in flexibility (SDS: 57.6%; ADS: 45.1%; p<0.01) compared to the non‐significant changes in the control group. The inclusion of ADS and SDS within the regular warm‐up of an 8‐week training programme can improve not only flexibility but also jump power measures as well.
The influence of in‐game emotions on basketball performance
Authors: Uphill Mark , Groom Ryan , Jones Marc
Published: October 2012

This study examined the influence of emotions on performance in basketball. Six female basketball players were videotaped in six games. Frequency of performance behaviours was recorded minute‐by‐minute and indices of successful (SGI) and unsuccessful (UGI) game involvement derived for each player. Post‐game, players reported the intensity of experienced emotions (anger, anxiety, embarrassment, excitement and happiness), and the time of the eliciting incident. The only emotion revealed as a significant predictor of SGI was happiness; both anger and embarrassment were significant predictors of increased UGI. Consideration of individual player analyses suggests that there is variation in the magnitude of the influence of emotions on performance and the extent to which this influence was helpful or harmful to performance. The study provides evidence that emotions are associated with changes in game behaviours in competition. Implications for further research examining the emotion–performance relationship are discussed.
Script-driven processing affords protection from retrieval-induced forgetting in the recall of everyday activities
Authors: García-Bajos Elvira , Migueles Malen
Published: October 2012

Using the retrieval-practice paradigm, we examined the effects of script and selective retrieval on the recall of high- and low-typicality actions of everyday activities. The participants studied two activities, Getting up in the morning and Going to a restaurant, each consisting of high-typicality and low-typicality actions. They then practised half of the high- or low-typicality actions of an activity, with recall of the unpractised activity serving as baseline. Script-driven processing prompted the recall of high-typicality actions and produced more high-typicality than low-typicality intrusions. Selective retrieval practice of the high-typicality script actions did not have an adverse effect on the recall of high- or low-typicality actions, while practising low-typicality actions not representative of the scripts produced retrieval-induced forgetting of other low-typicality actions. Scripts provide the cognitive system with flexibility and economy, but side-effects such as high-typicality intrusions and poor memory for detail can also derive from script processing.