bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electron hopping‐randomwalk at localized band tail states with exponential density in amorphous hydrogenated silicon
Authors: Murayama Kazuro , Fujisaki Tatuya , Nomura Yukio
Published: January 2008

Monte Carlo simulation of hopping‐randomwalk at localized band tail states with the exponential density has been executed. The mean square hopping distance of electrons and the average density of electrons at the starting site after s steps are shown to be given by  ∼ sα and  ∼ s–γ, respectively. The exponents α andγ increase with temperature and reach 1 and 3/2 at high temperatures, respectively. α is shown to be equal to the dispersion parameter, αi, at short time in the time‐of‐flight experiment. The temperature behaviour of α are shown to agree with that of αi in amorphous hydrogenated silicon (a‐Si:H) observed in the electric field lower than 1×104 V/cm. The average depth of electrons and holes in the exponential tail increases with steps and thermally balance at an energy, which is named the hopping‐edge. The temperature dependence of the hopping‐gap, which means the energy difference between electron and hole hopping‐edges, agrees with that obtained from the excitation energy dependence of the luminescence peak energy in a‐Si:H. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Anomalous electric‐field effect and glassy behaviour in granular aluminium: electron glass?
Authors: Grenet T. , Delahaye J. , Sabra M. , Gay F.
Published: January 2008

We briefly review our study of non‐equilibrium phenomena observed in the electrical conductance of insulating granular aluminium thin films at low temperature. In MOS like structures, with granular aluminium channels, an anomalous field effect and its slow relaxation have been studied in some detail, the phenomenology of which is very similar to the one also observed in indium oxide. The interpretation of the experimental findings is discussed. To date, in granular systems, the present experiments can qualitatively be interpreted along two different lines. One (the “extrinsic” scenario) relies on a slow polarisation in the dielectric surrounding the metallic islands. The other one is a purely electronic mechanism: the formation of an electron Coulomb glass in the granular met al. Some experimental facts seem difficult to reconcile with the extrinsic scenario, but more selective experiments and/or quantitative theoretical predictions are still needed to definitely distinguish between the two scenarii. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Hopping parameters in densely packed submicron crystallites
Authors: Huijbregts L. J. , Brom H. B. , Brokken‐Zijp J. C. M. , Yuan M. , Michels M. A. J.
Published: January 2008

The density of states g (E) in the hopping process in closely packed crystallites is expected to differ from g (E) within a single crystallite [Zhang and Shklovskii, Phys. Rev. B 70, 115317 (2004)]. Dielectric scans are well suited to quantify these differences. Here we illustrate the method by discussing the results on Phthalcon‐11, a cobalt phthalocyanine with submicron dimensions. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Simulation of double injection in a bulk heterojunction material using the Gaussian disorder model
Authors: Jansson F. , Österbacka R.
Published: January 2008

Charge transport in a bulk heterojunction solar cell is simulated with a hopping model. Several charge carriers are simulated simultaneously, taking the Coulomb interaction between them and the recombination into account. The model is used to simulate a double injection experiment. Current transients are calculated for different applied voltages and for different recombination rates across the interface and compared to measured transients. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Effective temperature for hopping transport in a Gaussian DOS
Authors: Jansson F. , Baranovskii S. D. , Sliaužys G. , Österbacka R. , Thomas P.
Published: January 2008

For hopping transport in disordered materials, the carrier mobility is strongly dependent on the temperature and electric field. For inorganic materials, with an exponential density of states (DOS), it has been shown earlier that both the energy distribution and the mobility of charge carriers can be described by an effective temperature T eff(T,E) dependent on the magnitude of the electric field E. We attempt to apply the same ideas to hopping transport in organic materials with a Gaussian DOS. Solving numerically the balance equation for the hopping model we show that both the energy distribution and the mobility of charge carriers can be well described by a fielddependent effective temperature. We also show that the concept of the effective temperature is applicable to description of experimental data on the carrier mobility obtained in RRa‐P3HT. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Ethics Committees in India
Authors: Dent Nigel J. , Krishan Anand
Published: January 2008

This article sets out to give an introduction to the ethics committee situation in India, explores how education and training is being undertaken and explains the governmental requirements for setting up, running and maintaining ethics committees. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Can eTraining be beneficial means for training the staff in QA?
Authors: Constant Paul C.
Published: January 2008

The question is raised as to whether the staff of a company needs to be trained in quality assurance, especially what is relative to one's responsibilities. The answer is inferred to be in the affirmative, and thus training in general is discussed. Questions to be asked before deciding on the type of training that should be undertaken as well as representative areas to be covered in the training are given. The emphasis is on eTraining, giving its advantages and disadvantages; how it can be ensured the staff will accept the training; the effectiveness of the training from business and staff development standpoints; whether eTraining will have a sustained educational effect; how difficult it is to develop a proper curriculum; what start up and continuous costs and what cost/benefit ratio can be expected. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Developing and implementing a comprehensive clinical QA audit program
Authors: Li Henry , Hawlk Susan , Hanna Kim , Klein Gerald , Petteway Steve
Published: January 2008

The Clinical Quality Assurance (CQA) audit program is a key element of a Good Clinical Practice (GCP) quality system. The objective of a CQA audit program is to ensure that trial conduct and data quality meet protocol‐specified, GCP, and applicable regulatory requirements. Due to the increasing complexity of clinical trials and regulatory scrutiny, the components of a CQA audit program and the approaches taken towards designing and managing audits are constantly evolving. In this paper, we will focus on the strategies that are used to develop and implement a CQA audit program, including types of audits to be conducted and the quality approaches taken to manage and improve the CQA audit program. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Accuracy of ultrasound to MR registration of the knee
Authors: Murtha PE , Watterson N , Nikou C , Jaramaz B
Published: January 2008

Background

Ultrasound‐based registration to 3D surfaces segmented from MR imaging is proposed as a non‐invasive alternative to point‐based registration for image‐guided surgery. By relying upon diagnostic MR imaging, the expense of additional CT imaging (and exposure to radiation) is avoided. The technique would enable navigation in arthroscopic and other minimally invasive procedures.

Methods

Optically tracked registrations using point‐based and ultrasound‐based methods to MR and CT imaging volumes for two cadaveric specimens were acquired and analysed.

Results

The average RMS distance between fiducials was 0.27 mm for CT and 0.72 mm for MR utilizing point‐based registration. The average RMS distance for ultrasound‐based registration to CT was 0.59 mm and 0.76 mm to MR. The RMS distance for fiducials co‐located in MR and CT imaging volumes was 0.74 mm. The end‐to‐end error of ultrasound registration to MR imaging was 2.98 mm, as compared to 1.65 mm for CT.

Conclusions

Ultrasound registration to MR imaging data is a viable non‐invasive alternative to point‐based registration. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Survismeter 3‐in‐1 for interfacial tension (IFT), surface tension and viscosity measurements simultaneously
Authors: Singh Man
Published: January 2008

Interfacial tension (IFT) (γift, N m−1) of benzene‐water; and surface tensions (γ, N m−1) and viscosities (η, N s m−2) of solvents methanol, ethanol, glycerol, ethyl acetate, n‐hexane, diethyl ether, chloroform, benzene, carbon tetrachloride [CCl4], formic acid, Acetonitril, and dimethylformamide [DMF] were measured with Survismeter‐IFT. The ± 1.1 × 10−5 N m−1, ± 1.3 × 10−5 N m−1, and ± 1.1 × 10−5 N s m−2 deviations in respective values were noted. It has 10 times better accuracy than those of individual methods. The survismeter is inexpensive minimizing 2/3 each of consumables, human efforts, time, and infrastructure, cutting down 80% of the waste disposed the environment. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Old ideas may still be new: a system identification approach to tanker freight modelling
Authors: Dikos George , Marcus Henry S. , Papadatos Martsin Panagiotis
Published: January 2008

A system identification approach is used in order to model and identify the structural relationship between freight rates in the tanker industry and a set of exogenous inputs. Our motivation results from the limited data availability and the prohibitive theoretical complexity of economic models for the evaluation of managerial decisions and risk management. The combination of statistical analysis and economic insight leads to an innovative multidisciplinary approach for modelling competitive economic systems. We calibrate the model with real data from 1980–2002, achieve estimation and identification of the system and fully track the directional changes in freight rates. After conducting performance evaluation an innovative hybrid model is introduced and system performance is maximized both within and out‐of‐sample. Finally we discuss potential uses of this model for policy analysis, managerial investment decisions and risk management. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Using ANT ideas in the managing of systemic action research
Authors: Lewis Paul
Published: January 2008

Little guidance has been given to the management of action research and this paper suggests that ideas from the actor‐network theory (ANT) may be helpful. Although ANT has been widely used as a tool for interpretation and description of the interplay of the social and technical aspects of organizations, this paper presents a different use of the ideas. It advocates a proactive use, to bring about changes in a situation rather than merely observing and describing that situation disinterestedly from the outside. The case is described of a long‐term action research study carried out within a corporate bank, where the ideas of ANT were employed in this way, as a device for understanding the turbulent social and political context of the research, to plan and manage the intervention process, and where ideas such as networks of interest, translation of interests and black boxes were used to practical effect. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Critical heuristics: a contribution to addressing the vexed question of so‐called knowledge management
Authors: Guo Zining , Sheffield James
Published: January 2008

This study addresses a long‐standing and well‐recognized problem in Knowledge Management (KM) research, namely, that the KM research community is fragmented. Journeying across boundaries is hazardous because there is a lack of mutual understanding on conceptual, methodological and theoretical issues. The authors believe that researchers may make more robust claims to the validity of their work if they are aware of their own epistemic commitments and those of others. Consequently we address the problem of fragmentation by identifying heuristics for both individual choice (diversity) and collective coherence (integration) in KM research. We propose a framework for inquiry that supports diversity and integration through a synthesis of concepts from Churchman's inquiring systems and Habermas's critical social theory. The key architectural element in this framework is a three‐level structure comprised of Habermas's three knowledge interests (technical, practical and emancipatory). Framework development consists of describing how four other design elements (Habermas's three rationalities, Churchman's roles, knowledge dynamics, and research paradigms) relate to these three levels. Some initial suggestions are made for the practical use of the framework for the purpose of ethical inquiry. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Combined Major Hepatectomy and Pancreaticoduodenectomy for Locally Advanced Biliary Carcinoma: Long‐Term Results
Authors: Wakai Toshifumi , Shirai Yoshio , Tsuchiya Yoshiaki , Nomura Tatsuya , Akazawa Kouhei , Hatakeyama Katsuyoshi
Published: January 2008

Background

This study aimed to define the role of combined major hepatectomy and pancreaticoduodenectomy in the surgical management of biliary carcinoma and to identify potential candidates for this aggressive procedure.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 28 patients who underwent a combined major hepatectomy and pancreaticoduodenectomy for extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (n = 17) or gallbladder carcinoma (n = 11). Major hepatectomy was defined as hemihepatectomy or more extensive hepatectomy. Altogether, 11 patients underwent a Whipple procedure, and 17 had a pylorus‐preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy. The median follow‐up time was 169 months.

Results

Morbidity and in‐hospital mortality were 82% and 21%, respectively. Overall cumulative survival rates after resection were 32% at 2 years and 11% at 5 years (median survival time 9 months). The median survival time was 6 months with a 2‐year survival rate of 0% in 11 patients with residual tumor, whereas the median survival time was 26 months with a 5‐year survival rate of 18% in 17 patients with no residual tumor (P = 0.0012). Residual tumor status was the only independent prognostic factor of significance (relative risk 4.65; P = 0.003). There were three 5‐year survivors (two with diffuse cholangiocarcinoma and one with gallbladder carcinoma with no bile duct involvement) among the patients with no residual tumor.

Conclusions

Combined major hepatectomy and pancreaticoduodenectomy provides survival benefit for some patients with locally advanced biliary carcinoma only if potentially curative (R0) resection is feasible. Patients with diffuse cholangiocarcinoma and gallbladder carcinoma with no bile duct involvement are potential candidates for this aggressive procedure.
Laparoscopic Adrenalectomy After Prior Abdominal Surgery
Authors: Morris Lilah , Ituarte Philip , Zarnegar Rasa , Duh Quan‐Yang , Ahmed Leaque , Lee James , Inabnet William , Meyer‐Rochow Goswin , Sidhu Stan , Sywak Mark , Yeh Michael
Published: January 2008

Background

Compared with the open procedure, laparoscopic adrenalectomy (LA) is associated with decreased operative time, perioperative complications, and hospital stay. Some regard prior abdominal surgery as a contraindication to LA or suggest a retroperitoneoscopic approach. We studied the effect of prior abdominal surgery on the feasibility and safety of transabdominal LA.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 246 consecutive LAs performed at four academic centers from 2002 to 2006. Cases were grouped according to prior abdominal surgery (PAS) (n = 92, 37%) or no prior surgery (NPS) (n = 154, 63%). Statistical power was greater than 0.90 to detect the following differences in endpoints: conversion 2%, operating time 22%, and complications 2%.

Results

Mean tumor size was 3.3 cm, 8.1% of tumors were larger than 7 cm, and 20% were pheochromocytomas. Prior operations were upper abdominal (37%), lower abdominal (48%), or laparoscopic (15%). There were nine conversions (3.7%), one in the PAS group and eight in the NPS group (p = 0.14), with conversions related to large tumor size and pheochromocytoma (both p < 0.01). Operating time was 158 ± 59 min across groups. The subgroup with prior upper abdominal surgery had nonsignificantly longer operating times compared with the NPS group (183 vs. 165 min, p = 0.16). Operative blood loss was 67 ± 84 ml and the perioperative complication rate was 12.2%, with no differences between groups.

Conclusion

Prior abdominal surgery does not impede transabdominal LA. More than one‐third of patients requiring adrenalectomy will have had prior abdominal surgery, and these patients should not be denied the benefits of a laparoscopic procedure.
Interactive Genetic Counseling Role‐Play: A Novel Educational Strategy for Family Physicians
Authors: Blaine Sean M. , Carroll June C. , Rideout Andrea L. , Glendon Gord , Meschino Wendy , Shuman Cheryl , Telner Deanna , Van Iderstine Natasha , Permaul Joanne
Published: January 2008

Background

Family physicians (FPs) are increasingly involved in delivering genetic services. Familiarization with aspects of genetic counseling may enable FPs to help patients make informed choices.

Purpose

Exploration of interactive role‐play as a means to raise FPs’ awareness of the process and content of genetic counseling.

Methods

FPs attending two large Canadian family medicine conferences in 2005 were eligible—93 participated. FPs discussed a case during a one‐on‐one session with a genetic counselor. Evaluation involved pre and post intervention questionnaires

Results

FPs’ baseline genetic knowledge was self‐rated as uniformly poor. Baseline confidence was highest in eliciting family history and providing psychosocial support and lowest in discussing risks/benefits of genetic testing and counseling process. Post‐intervention, 80% of FPs had better appreciation of family history and 97% indicated this was an effective learning experience.

Conclusions

Role‐play with FPs is effective in raising awareness of the process and content of genetic counseling and may be applied to other health disciplines.
Relationship between occurrence of mastitis pathogens in dairy cattle herds and raw-milk indicators of hygienic-sanitary quality
Authors: Souto Luís IM , Minagawa Clarice Y , Telles Evelise O , Garbuglio Márcio A , Amaku Marcos , Dias Ricardo A , Sakata Sonia T , Benites Nilson R
Published: January 2008

Mastitis is an inflammation of the mammary glands and in most cases it is caused by the presence of microorganisms. High mastitis rates in dairy cattle herds can cause an increase in total microorganism counts of bulk tank milk. The present paper was aimed at verifying whether the occurrence of mastitis in dairy cattle herds is reflected in raw-milk indicators of hygienic-sanitary quality. To observe the correlation among the analysed variables, we performed a logarithmical transformation (log10) of different indicator counts of raw milk and compared them with the occurrence of mastitis in dairy cattle herds. Few correlations were observed among mastitis cases in dairy cattle herds and the raw-milk indicators of hygienic-sanitary quality. We observed a negative correlation between the log10 of mesophilic aerobic plate counts and psychotropic aerobic plate counts when compared with the occurrence of no bacterial growth. The log10 of thermophilic aerobic plate counts and yeasts and mould aerobic plate counts presented a positive correlation with the cases of infectious mastitis and mastitis caused by Staphylococcus spp.
Lactoferrin decreases primary bovine mammary epithelial cell viability and casein expression
Authors: Riley Lisa G , Williamson Peter , Wynn Peter C , Sheehy Paul A
Published: January 2008

The concentration of lactoferrin (LTF) in milk varies during lactation, rising sharply during involution. We proposed that LTF might have a regulatory role in involution and investigated its effects in vitro on the viability of bovine mammary epithelial cells (BMEC) and on casein expression in bovine mammospheres. Mammospheres capable of milk protein expression were formed by culturing primary BMEC on extracellular matrix in the presence of lactogenic hormones. Exogenously added LTF decreased β-casein and κ-casein mRNA expression in mammospheres while transfection of a short interfering RNA (siRNA) to suppress LTF expression resulted in increased casein mRNA expression. We believe that LTF exerts its effect on casein gene expression by up-regulating interleukin-1β (IL-1β) as IL-Iβ gene expression was elevated in mammospheres treated with LTF. LTF also decreased viability of BMEC grown as monolayers and as mammospheres. Interestingly, LTF was only effective in reducing casein mRNA expression and viability in mammospheres when added at concentrations found during early involution but was inactive when used at concentrations found in milk. We suggest that LTF has a regulatory role during early involution, decreasing casein expression and reducing BMEC viability.
Reformation of casein particles from alkaline-disrupted casein micelles
Authors: Huppertz Thom , Vaia Betsy , Smiddy Mary A
Published: January 2008

In this study, the properties of casein particles reformed from alkaline disrupted casein micelles were studied. For this purpose, micelles were disrupted completely by increasing milk pH to 10·0, and subsequently reformed by decreasing milk pH to 6·6. Reformed casein particles were smaller than native micelles and had a slightly lower zeta-potential. Levels of ionic and serum calcium, as well as rennet coagulation time did not differ between milk containing native micelles or reformed casein particles. Ethanol stability and heat stability, >pH 7·0, were lower for reformed casein particles than native micelles. Differences in heat stability, ethanol stability and zeta-potential can be explained in terms of the influence of increased concentrations of sodium and chloride ions in milk containing reformed casein particles. Hence, these results indicate that, if performed in a controlled manner, casein particles with properties closely similar to those of native micelles can be reformed from alkaline disrupted casein micelles.
Influence of oestrus on the heat stability and other characteristics of milk from dairy goats
Authors: Christodoulopoulos Georgios , Solomakos Nikolaos , Katsoulos Panagiotis D , Minas Anastasios , Kritas Spyridon K
Published: January 2008

We examined the heat stability, somatic cell count (SCC), pH, fat, protein and lactose content of milk from goats during the oestrous period, in order to investigate evidence of possible oestrus effects on milk physical and chemical properties. Goats free from mammary infections were ranked on average SCC from three tests so that they could be stratified randomly in pairs to synchronized oestrus or left as unsynchronized non-oestrus controls. The synchronisation consisted of insertion of an intravaginal progesterone-releasing device for 17 d, and introduction of the bucks the day of the device removal (D0). The repeated measurements analysis of variance model included the fixed effects of the experimental group (oestrus or control) and day and the corresponding interaction and also the random effect of doe. Reduced milk-heat stability, increased SCC, increased protein content and reduced pH were found in the milk samples of the oestrus group on D1, 2 and 3. The fat and lactose content of the milk was not affected by oestrus. These data indicate that the milk of goats during the mating period has reduced heat stability and, therefore, that dilution into bulk tanks should be recommended to avoid clotting when milk is intended for high thermal treatment.
Ecstasy use and higher-level cognitive functions: weak effects of ecstasy after control for potential confounds
Authors: Bedi G. , Redman J.
Published: January 2008

Background

Although there have been several reports linking ecstasy use with lowered cognitive function, much previous research suffers from substantial methodological limitations. The present study aimed to examine associations between ecstasy use and higher-level cognitive functions, using a larger sample size than most previous research and better controlling for a range of potential confounds.

Method

A cross-sectional cohort design assessed 45 currently abstinent ecstasy polydrug users (EP), 48 cannabis polydrug users (CP) and 40 legal drug users (LD). Standardized neuropsychological tests were used to measure attention, verbal, visual and working memory and executive function. Prospective memory function was also assessed.

Results

It was not possible to discriminate between groups on the basis of the cognitive functions assessed. Regression analyses showed an inverse association between lifetime dose of ecstasy and verbal memory performance. A combination of drug-use variables, including measures of ecstasy use, contributed to prediction of attention/working memory. However, individual associations were small, explaining 1–6% of variance in cognitive scores.

Conclusions

Although the results suggest that heavy use of ecstasy is associated with some lowering of higher-level cognitive functions, they do not indicate a clinical picture of substantial cognitive dysfunction.
Suicide after bereavement: an overlooked problem
Authors: Ajdacic-Gross V. , Ring M. , Gadola E. , Lauber C. , Bopp M. , Gutzwiller F. , Rössler W.
Published: January 2008

Background

To examine the effect of time on suicide after bereavement among widowed persons.

Method

The data were extracted from Swiss mortality statistics for the period 1987–2005. The time between bereavement and subsequent death, specifically by suicide, was determined by linkage of individual records of married persons. The suicide rates and the standardized mortality ratios in the first week/month/year of widowhood were calculated based on person-year calculations.

Results

The annualized suicide rates in widowed persons were highest in the first week after bereavement: 941 males and 207 females per 100 000. The corresponding standardized mortality ratios were approximately 34 and 19 respectively. In the first month(s) after bereavement, the rates and the ratios decreased, first rapidly, then gradually. Except in older widows, they did not reach the baseline levels during the first year after bereavement.

Conclusions

The suicide risk of widowed persons is increased in the days, weeks and months after bereavement. Widowed persons are a clear-cut risk group under the aegis of undertakers, priests and general practitioners.
Shared and unique risk factors between lifetime purging and objective binge eating: a twin study
Authors: Wade T. D. , Treloar S. , Martin N. G.
Published: January 2008

Background

Objective binge eating (OBE) and self-induced vomiting (SIV) occur and co-occur across a range of eating disorders but the extent to which the risk factors for these two behaviours overlap is unclear. Examination of this overlap was the focus of the current report.

Method

A population of female Australian twins (n=1002), mean age 35 years (s.d.=2.11, range 28–40), participated in three waves of data collection and were assessed for lifetime disordered eating with a semi-structured interview at wave 3 and a self-report questionnaire at wave 1; risk factors were assessed via self-report at waves 1 and 3.

Results

Non-shared environmental influences were the largest contributor to the variance of both OBE and SIV, with a more modest contribution of genetic influences. Between 5% and 14% of the environmental risk factors for OBE and SIV were shared and 27–100% of genetic risk factors were shared. SIV initiation was predicted by higher neuroticism and novelty seeking and lower maternal and paternal care, whilst lower levels of perceived paternal care, higher lifetime BMI, and a wider BMI range predicted OBE initiation. Retrospective correlates associated with both SIV and OBE onset were parental comments about weight, whilst higher levels of parental conflict, expectations and criticism was associated with OBE onset only.

Conclusions

The substantial extent of non-overlap between risk factors for SIV and OBE suggests that each of these behavioural disturbances warrants future investigation in its own right, not only when they occur in conjunction with each other.
Induced Forests in Regular Graphs with Large Girth
Authors: HOPPEN CARLOS , WORMALD NICHOLAS
Published: January 2008

An induced forest of a graph G is an acyclic induced subgraph of G. The present paper is devoted to the analysis of a simple randomized algorithm that grows an induced forest in a regular graph. The expected size of the forest it outputs provides a lower bound on the maximum number of vertices in an induced forest of G. When the girth is large and the degree is at least 4, our bound coincides with the best bound known to hold asymptotically almost surely for random regular graphs. This results in an alternative proof for the random case.
Effects of oral l-carnitine supplementation in racing Greyhounds
Authors: Epp T S , Erickson H H , Woodworth J , Poole D C
Published: January 2008

l-Carnitine supplementation can stimulate erythropoiesis, reduce exercise-induced plasma lactate concentrations and decrease post-exercise muscle damage. Next to horses, Greyhounds represent the premier animal racing species and perform short-duration, very high-intensity exercise that has the potential to incur substantial muscle damage. Under resting and standard racing conditions (5/16 mile), we tested the novel hypotheses that l-carnitine supplementation in Greyhounds would: (1) elevate haematocrit at rest and immediately post-exercise; (2) reduce peak post-exercise plasma lactate; and (3) reduce indices of muscle damage (plasma creatine phosphokinase, CPK and aspartate aminotransferase, AST). Six conditioned Greyhounds (30.1 ± 1.6 kg) underwent a randomized placebo-controlled crossover study to determine the effects of 6 weeks of l-carnitine supplementation (100 mg kg− 1 of body weight/day) at rest and following a maximal speed 5/16 mile race. In accordance with our hypotheses, l-carnitine elevated resting and immediately post-race haematocrit (control, 60.1 ± 1.7, l-carnitine, 63.6 ± 1.7; P < 0.05) and reduced peak post-race plasma CPK and AST concentrations (both P < 0.05). Those dogs with the highest peak post-exercise plasma CPK concentrations under placebo conditions evidenced the greatest reduction with l-carnitine supplementation (r = 0.99, P < 0.01). However, contrary to our hypotheses, l-carnitine did not change peak post-exercise plasma lactate concentrations (control, 27.0 ± 2.1, l-carnitine, 27.7 ± 1.3; P>0.05). We conclude that l-carnitine supplementation increases the potential for oxygen transport and reduces plasma indicators of muscle damage, CPK and AST in racing Greyhounds.
Profiling young massive stars
Authors: Hill Tracey , Burton M. G. , Cunningham M. R. , Minier V.
Published: January 2008

We present the results of spectral energy distribution analysis for 162 of the 405 sources reported in the SIMBA survey of Hill et al. (2005). The fits reveal source specific parameters including: the luminosity, mass, temperature, H2 number density, the surface density and the luminosity-to-mass ratio. Each of these parameters are examined with respect to the four classes of source present in the sample. Obvious luminosity and temperature distinctions exist between the mm-only cores and those cores with methanol maser and/or radio continuum emission, with the former cooler and less luminous than the latter. The evidence suggests that the mm-only cores are a precursor to the methanol maser in the formation of massive stars. The mm-only cores comprise two distinct populations distinguished by temperature. Analysis and conclusions about the nature of the cool-mm and warm-mm cores comprising the mm-only population are drawn.
The molecular environment of massive star forming cores associated with Class II methanol maser emission
Authors: Longmore S. N. , Burton M. G. , Barnes P. J. , Wong T. , Purcell C. R. , Ott J.
Published: January 2008

Methanol maser emission has proven to be an excellent signpost of regions undergoing massive star formation (MSF). To investigate their role as an evolutionary tracer, we have recently completed a large observing program with the ATCA to derive the dynamical and physical properties of molecular/ionised gas towards a sample of MSF regions traced by 6.7GHz methanol maser emission. We find that the molecular gas in many of these regions breaks up into multiple sub-clumps which we separate into groups based on their association with/without methanol maser and cm continuum emission. The temperature and dynamic state of the molecular gas is markedly different between the groups. Based on these differences, we attempt to assess the evolutionary state of the cores in the groups and thus investigate the role of class II methanol masers as a tracer of MSF.
The variability of 6.7 and 12.2 GHz methanol masers
Authors: Błaszkiewicz Leszek P. , Mikuć A. , Kus A. J.
Published: January 2008

Eight strong methanol masers were monitored using the 32-m Torun radio telescope at 6.7 and 12.2 GHz. The observations were taken in the period 2003 December to 2005 July at 1–2 week intervals. We have noted strong variability of single features but did not notice spectacular spectral shape changes. From our results we designated two groups of variability for corresponding features: Those where the 12.2 GHz flux density variations follow those at 6.7 GHz, and those where the 12.2 GHz flux density variations are opposite to 6.7 GHz.
Detection of Escherichia coli with Fluorescent Labeled Phages That Have a Broad Host Range to E. coli in Sewage Water
Authors: Namura Mariko , Hijikata Tomonori , Miyanaga Kazuhiko , Tanji Yasunori
Published: January 2008

Escherichia coli is used as an indicator microorganism in public health. The conventional way to detect E. coli requires several days to produce a result, because it requires incubation of cells. Therefore a rapid and sensitive detection method is needed. T4e‐/GFP phage, characterized by suppression of lysozyme and fusion of GFP (green fluorescent protein) to its SOC (small outer capsid) protein, was constructed, and it was shown to be able to detect E. coli K12 sensitively within several hours. However, because the host range of T4 phage to E. coli present in sewage water and sea water is narrow, this phage cannot be used to detect E. coli in environmental water. Two phages named IP008 and IP052, which have a broad host range to E. coli present in sewage influent, were screened from sewage influent. Mixture of these two phages produced clear plaques on 50% of E. coli screened from sewage influent. To use these phages as a tool for detection of E. coli, gfp was inserted into gene e, which encodes a lytic enzyme, and thus lytic‐activity‐suppressed phages were constructed (IP008e‐/GFP and IP052e‐/GFP). However, the fluorescent intensity of E. coli cells infected with IP008e‐/GFP and IP052e‐/GFP was not enough for visualization of the cell. Therefore, in addition to the insertion of gfp into gene e, fusion of GFP to SOC of IP008e‐/GFP and IP052e‐/GFP was conducted to produce IP008e‐/2xGFP and IP052e‐/2xGFP. E. coli cells infected with IP008e‐/2xGFP and IP052e‐/2xGFP showed much stronger fluorescence intensity than E. coli cells infected by IP008e‐/GFP and IP052e‐/GFP. It is anticipated that, using these GFP‐labeled phages, a broad range of E. coli present in sewage influent water can be detected rapidly.
Distribution of the O2 infrared nightglow observed with VIRTIS on board Venus Express
Authors: Gérard J.‐C. , Saglam A. , Piccioni G. , Drossart P. , Cox C. , Erard S. , Hueso R. , Sánchez‐Lavega A.
Published: January 2008

We present characteristics of the statistical horizontal distribution of the O2 infrared nightglow over most of the southern hemisphere observed with the VIRTIS instrument over a period spanning nearly 11 months of low solar activity. We show that the distribution is inhomogeneous with the regions of brightest emission reaching ∼3 MegaRayleighs (MR) located at low latitude near and dawnward of the midnight meridian. The hemispherically averaged nadir brightness is 1.3 MR, in very good agreement with earlier ground based observations. We show that the dayside supply of O atoms is sufficient to produce the observed global O2 nightglow if approximately 50% of the dayside O production is carried to the nightside by the subsolar to antisolar global circulation. Limb profiles observed at northern mid‐latitudes exhibit large intensity variations over short time periods. Calculations with a one‐dimensional chemical diffusive model produce an airglow peak at 96 km, in agreement with the limb observations. The atomic oxygen density derived from the best fits to O2 airglow limb profiles reaches a maximum of 1.8–3.5 × 1011 cm−3 at 104 km.
Generalized two‐scale weighted Cantor set model for solar wind turbulence
Authors: Macek W. M. , Szczepaniak A.
Published: January 2008

In order to quantify the multifractality of solar wind turbulence, we consider a generalized weighted Cantor set with two different scales describing nonuniform compression of cascading eddies. We investigate the resulting multifractal spectrum of generalized dimensions depending on two scaling parameters and one probability measure parameter, especially for asymmetric scaling. In particular, we show that intermittent pulses are stronger for the model with two different scaling parameters and a much better agreement with the solar wind data is obtained, especially for the negative index of the generalized dimensions. Therefore we argue that there is a need to use a two‐scale cascade model. Hence we propose this new more general model as a useful tool for analysis of intermittent turbulence in various environments.
A 20th century acceleration of sea‐level rise in New Zealand
Authors: Gehrels W. Roland , Hayward Bruce W. , Newnham Rewi M. , Southall Katherine E.
Published: January 2008

Sea levels in New Zealand have remained relatively stable throughout the past 7000 years, but salt‐marsh cores from southern New Zealand show evidence of a recent rapid rise. To date and quantify this rise we present a proxy sea‐level record spanning the past 500 years for Pounawea, southeastern New Zealand, based on foraminiferal analyses. Ages for ten sea‐level index points are established from AMS14C, Pb concentrations, stable Pb isotopes, pollen markers, charcoal concentrations and 137Cs. Sea level was rising slowly (0.3 ± 0.3 mm yr−1) from AD 1500 to AD 1900, but during the 20th century the rate increased to 2.8 ± 0.5 mm yr−1, in agreement with instrumental measurements commencing in 1924. This is the first sea‐level record from the southern hemisphere showing a significantly higher rate of sea‐level rise during the 20th century as compared with preceding centuries.
Computerized Script Training for Aphasia: Preliminary Results
Authors: Cherney Leora R. , Halper Anita S. , Holland Audrey L. , Cole Ron
Published: January 2008

Purpose

This article describes computer software that was developed specifically for training conversational scripts and illustrates its use with 3 individuals with aphasia.

Method

Three participants with chronic aphasia (Broca’s, Wernicke’s, and anomic) were assessed before and after 9 weeks of a computer script training program. For each participant, 3 individualized scripts were developed, recorded on the software, and practiced sequentially at home. Weekly meetings with the speech-language pathologist occurred to monitor practice and assess progress. Baseline and posttreatment scripts were audiotaped, transcribed, and compared to the target scripts for content, grammatical productivity, and rate of production of script-related words. Interviews with the person with aphasia and his or her significant other were conducted at the conclusion of treatment.

Results

All measures (content, grammatical productivity, and rate of production of script-related words) improved for each participant on every script. Two participants gained more than 5 points on the Aphasia Quotient of the Western Aphasia Battery. Five positive themes were consistently identified from the exit interviews—increased verbal communication, improvements in other modalities and situations, communication changes noticed by others, increased confidence, and satisfaction with the software.

Conclusion

Computer-based script training potentially may be an effective intervention for persons with chronic aphasia.
A Randomized Study of Three Interventions for Aspiration of Thin Liquids in Patients With Dementia or Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Logemann Jeri A. , Gensler Gary , Robbins JoAnne , Lindblad Anne S. , Brandt Diane , Hind Jacqueline A. , Kosek Steven , Dikeman Karen , Kazandjian Marta , Gramigna Gary D. , Lundy Donna , McGarvey-Toler Susan , Miller Gardner Patricia J.
Published: January 2008

Purpose

This study was designed to identify which of 3 treatments for aspiration on thin liquids—chin-down posture, nectar-thickened liquids, or honey-thickened liquids—results in the most successful immediate elimination of aspiration on thin liquids during the videofluorographic swallow study in patients with dementia and/or Parkinson’s disease.

Method

This randomized clinical trial included 711 patients ages 50 to 95 years who aspirated on thin liquids as assessed videofluorographically. All patients received all 3 interventions in a randomly assigned order during the videofluorographic swallow study.

Results

Immediate elimination of aspiration on thin liquids occurred most often with honey-thickened liquids for patients in each diagnostic category, followed by nectar-thickened liquids and chin-down posture. Patients with most severe dementia exhibited least effectiveness on all interventions. Patient preference was best for chin-down posture followed closely by nectar-thickened liquids.

Conclusion

To identify best short-term intervention to prevent aspiration of thin liquid in patients with dementia and/or Parkinson’s disease, a videofluorographic swallow assessment is needed. Evidence-based practice requires taking patient preference into account when designing a dysphagic patient’s management plan. The longer-term impact of short-term prevention of aspiration requires further study.
Articulatory Changes Following Treatment of Muscle Tension Dysphonia: Preliminary Acoustic Evidence
Authors: Dromey Christopher , Nissen Shawn L. , Roy Nelson , Merrill Ray M.
Published: January 2008

Purpose

Primary muscle tension dysphonia (MTD), a voice disturbance that occurs in the absence of structural or neurological pathology, may respond to manual circumlaryngeal techniques, which ostensibly alter the posture of the larynx and/or the configuration of the vocal folds without directly targeting supralaryngeal articulatory structures. Although the phonatory benefits of these techniques have been documented previously, this investigation examined whether acoustic evidence exists for articulatory changes accompanying successful management.

Method

In this retrospective study of a clinical database, pre- and post-treatment speech samples from 111 women with MTD were analyzed for acoustic evidence of supraglottal vocal tract changes associated with voice improvement, which was confirmed by perceptual ratings of dysphonia severity. The slopes of the first and second formants in diphthongs, as well as global measures of speech timing were acquired. Twenty younger females with normal voices were recorded twice, across a similar time-span to the disordered speakers, to allow comparisons in performance.

Results

Repeated measures analysis of variance was used to evaluate changes accompanying treatment. Significant time by group interactions for /ɑI/ F2 slope, /eI/ F2 slope, sample duration, and speaking time ratio were observed. As compared to the controls, diphthong second formant transitions increased in slope, and timing measures showed increases in speech continuity for the speakers with MTD.

Conclusions

Collectively, these preliminary findings suggest that individuals with MTD experience changes in both articulatory and phonatory behavior following successful treatment that targets the larynx.
Translating Principles of Neural Plasticity Into Research on Speech Motor Control Recovery and Rehabilitation
Authors: Ludlow Christy L. , Hoit Jeannette , Kent Raymond , Ramig Lorraine O. , Shrivastav Rahul , Strand Edythe , Yorkston Kathryn , Sapienza Christine M.
Published: January 2008

Purpose

To review the principles of neural plasticity and make recommendations for research on the neural bases for rehabilitation of neurogenic speech disorders.

Method

A working group in speech motor control and disorders developed this report, which examines the potential relevance of basic research on the brain mechanisms involved in neural plasticity and discusses possible similarities and differences for application to speech motor control disorders. The possible involvement of neural plasticity in changes in speech production in normalcy, development, aging, and neurological diseases and disorders was considered. This report focuses on the appropriate use of functional and structural neuroimaging and the design of feasibility studies aimed at understanding how brain mechanisms are altered by environmental manipulations such as training and stimulation and how these changes might enhance the future development of rehabilitative methods for persons with speech motor control disorders.

Conclusions

Increased collaboration with neuroscientists working in clinical research centers addressing human communication disorders might foster research in this area. It is hoped that this article will encourage future research on speech motor control disorders to address the principles of neural plasticity and their application for rehabilitation.
Status of high current ion source operation at the GSI accelerator facility
Authors: Hollinger R. , Galonska M. , Gutermuth B. , Heymach F. , Krichbaum H. , Leible K.-D. , Ochs K. , Schäffer P. , Schäffer S. , Spädtke P. , Stork M. , Wesp A. , Mayr R.
Published: January 2008

Vacuum arc ion sources, Penning ion sources, and filament driven multicusp ion sources are used for the production of high current ion beams of a variety of metallic and gaseous ions at the GSI accelerator facility. For accelerator operation, the ion sources have to provide a stable beam over a long period of time with an energy of 2.2keV∕u and a maximum mass over charge ratio of 65. The status of beam time operation at the high current injector is presented here giving an outline on important ion source data, such as ion beam current, ion beam spectrum, transversal emittance, life time, duty factor, and transmission along the low energy beam transport section.
Investigation of helicon ion source extraction systems
Authors: Mordyk S. , Miroshnichenko V. , Shulha D. , Storizhko V.
Published: January 2008

Various versions of an extraction system for a helicon ion source have been investigated in high plasma density (>1012cm−3) modes. The measurements of the plasma density were carried out with a microwave interferometer. Experiments were performed with hydrogen and helium gases. The preliminary results indicate that specially designed extractors are very promising for improving ion beam paraxial brightness.
Fast triggers for a proton injector at PEFP
Authors: Song Young-Gi , Hong In-Seok , Cho Yong-Sub , Cho Yong-Hwan
Published: January 2008

A fast timing system has been developed to control transistor transistor logic (TTL) trigger signals which are used to extract the pulsed proton beam from an ion source with the precision of less than submicro seconds. The system has been designed to set a delay and duty of the pulses, respectively, and prohibit the beam pulse by an external interlock signal. The system is based on VME which is composed of VME CPU and fast I/O boards with fan-out modules. The software of the system has been developed by the record/device supports and channel access in the core of the EPICS environments. In the paper, we describe software configurations and hardware drivers.