bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optical switching of terahertz radiation from meta-atom-loaded photoconductive antennas
Authors: Takano Keisuke , Chiyoda Yui , Nishida Tsubasa , Miyamaru Fumiaki , Kawabata Taku , Sasaki Hirofumi , Takeda Mitsuo W. , Hangyo Masanori
Published: October 2011

Optical switching of the spectrum and polarization of terahertz radiation from split-ring resonator-loaded photoconductive antennas has been demonstrated. The switching is based on the sensitivity of the resonance of a split-ring resonator on a photoconductive substrate to a change in the capacitance induced by optical pulse irradiation. The spectral and polarization characteristics of the split-ring resonator-loaded photoconductive antennas are discussed in terms of the coupling between the electric dipole induced by the pump laser and the eigenmodes of the split-ring resonators.
Physical interpretation of mean local accumulation time of morphogen gradient formation
Authors: Berezhkovskii Alexander M. , Shvartsman Stanislav Y.
Published: October 2011

The paper deals with a reaction-diffusion problem that arises in developmental biology when describing the formation of the concentration profiles of signaling molecules, called morphogens, which control gene expression and, hence, cell differentiation. The mean local accumulation time, which is the mean time required to reach the steady state at a fixed point of a patterned tissue, is an important characteristic of the formation process. We show that this time is a sum of two times, the conditional mean first-passage time from the source to the observation point and the mean local accumulation time in the situation when the source is localized at the observation point.
Effect of the Ti molar ratio on the electrical characteristics of titanium-indium-zinc-oxide thin-film transistors fabricated by using a solution process
Authors: Yong Chong Ho , Wan Han Kyu , Soo No Young , Whan Kim Tae
Published: October 2011

Thin film transistors (TFTs) utilizing TiInZnO (TIZO) channel layers with different Ti molar ratios were fabricated by using a solution process. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy spectra for the TIZO film exhibited that the Ti 2p1/2 peak intensity increased with increasing Ti molar ratio. The addition of the Ti atoms in the TIZO films changed their carrier concentration due to the decrease of O2− ions, resulting in a positive shift of the threshold voltage and in a decrease of the off-current. The on/off current ratio of the TFTs with a 10% Ti molar ratio was as large as 0.21 × 107.
Optical amplification in Er/Yb silicate strip loaded waveguide
Authors: Guo Ruimin , Wang Xingjun , Zang Kai , Wang Bing , Wang Lei , Gao Linfei , Zhou Zhiping
Published: October 2011

An Er/Yb silicate strip loaded waveguide was fabricated for optical amplification purpose. A 2.4-μm-wide SiO2 strip was deposited on top of the Er/Yb silicate active layer. Experiment data showed a 5.5 dB signal enhancement in a 7.8-mm-long waveguide pumped by a laser of 372 mW at 1480 nm. The signal is not saturated and can be further enhanced by increasing pumping power and decreasing waveguide loss. The strong red light emission at 660 nm was also observed due to excited state absorption and Yb3+ participated energy transfer upconversion processes.
Strong-field single-cycle THz pulses generated in an organic crystal
Authors: Hauri Christoph P. , Ruchert Clemens , Vicario Carlo , Ardana Fernando
Published: October 2011

We present high-power single-cycle carrier-envelope phase locked THz pulses at a central frequency of 2.1 THz with MV/cm electric field strengths and magnetic field strengths beyond 0.3 T. The THz radiation is generated by optical rectification in an organic salt crystal 4-N,N-dimethylamino-4′-N′-methyl stilbazolium tosylate called DAST pumped with the signal wavelength of a powerful optical parametric amplifier. Conversion efficiencies of more than 2% are reported.
Combination synchronization of three classic chaotic systems using active backstepping design
Authors: Runzi Luo , Yinglan Wang , Shucheng Deng
Published: October 2011

In this paper, an active backstepping design is proposed to achieve combination synchronization between three different chaotic systems: Lorenz system, Chen’s system, and Lü system. The proposed method is a systematic design approach and consists in a recursive procedure that interlaces the choice of a Lyapunov function with the design of active control. Numerical simulations are shown to verify the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed control technique.
The effect of electrostatic shielding using invisibility cloak
Authors: Zhang Ruo-Yang , Zhao Qing , Ge Mo-Lin
Published: October 2011

The effect of electrostatic shielding for a spherical invisibility cloak with arbitrary charges inside is investigated. Our result reveals that the charge inside the cloak is a crucial factor to determine the detection. When charged bodies are placed inside the cloak with an arbitrary distribution, the electric fields outside are purely determined by the total charges just as the fields of a point charge at the center of the cloak. As the total charges reduce to zero, the bodies can not be detected. On the other hand, if the total charges are nonzero, the electrostatic potential inside an ideal cloak tends to infinity. For unideal cloaks, this embarrassment is overcome, while they still have good behaviors of shielding. In addition, the potential across the inner surface of an ideal cloak is discontinuous due to the infinite polarization of the dielectric, however it can be alternatively interpreted as the dual Meissner effect of a dual superconductive layer with a surface magnetic current.
Progress and challenges to male and female condom use in South Africa
Authors: Beksinska Mags E. , Smit Jennifer A. , Mantell Joanne E.
Published: October 2011

South Africa has responded to the sexually transmissible infection and HIV epidemic with a rapid expansion of its national-level public sector condom program. Male condoms are available widely at no cost in the public sector, with expanded access via social marketing and the private sector. The female condom program is one of the largest and best established globally. National surveys show progressive increases in rates of condom use at last sex. However, inconsistent and incorrect condom use and the likelihood that condoms are discontinued in longer-term partnerships are some of the challenges impeding the condom program’s successes in the fight against sexually transmissible infections and HIV. This article reviews the current condom program, related guidelines and policies, and the existing data on male and female condom use, including distribution and uptake. We discuss the main challenges to condom use, including both user and service-related issues and finally how these challenges could be addressed.
Kinked β-strands mediate high-affinity recognition of mRNA targets by the germ-cell regulator DAZL
Authors: Jenkins Huw T. , Malkova Bara , Edwards Thomas A.
Published: October 2011

A defect in germ-cell (sperm and oocyte) development is the leading cause of male and female infertility. Control of translation through the binding of deleted in azoospermia (DAZ)-like (DAZL) to the 3′-UTRs of mRNAs, via a highly conserved RNA recognition motif (RRM), has been shown to be essential in germ-cell development. Crystal structures of the RRM from murine DAZL (Dazl), both alone and in complex with RNA sequences from the 3′-UTRs of mRNAs regulated by Dazl, reveal high-affinity sequence-specific recognition of a GUU triplet involving an extended, kinked, pair of β-strands. Recognition of the GUU triplet is maintained, whereas the identity and position of bases flanking this triplet varies. The Dazl RRM is thus able to recognize GUU triplets in different sequence contexts. Mutation of bases within the GUU triplet reduces the affinity of binding. Together with the demonstration that multiple Dazl RRMs can bind to a single RNA containing multiple GUU triplets, these structures suggest that the number of DAZL molecules bound to GUU triplets in the 3′-UTR provides a method for modulating the translation of a target RNA. The conservation of RNA binding and structurally important residues between members of the DAZ family, together with the demonstration that mutation of these residues severely impairs RNA binding, indicate that the mode of RNA binding revealed by these structures is conserved in proteins essential for gamete development from flies to humans.
Balanced Rac1 and RhoA activities regulate cell shape and drive invagination morphogenesis in epithelia
Authors: Chauhan Bharesh K. , Lou Ming , Zheng Yi , Lang Richard A.
Published: October 2011

Epithelial bending is a central feature of morphogenesis in animals. Here we show that mutual antagonism by the small Rho GTPases Rac1 and RhoA determines cell shape, tissue curvature, and invagination activity in the model epithelium of the developing mouse lens. The epithelial cells of the invaginating lens placode normally elongate and change from a cylindrical to an apically constricted, conical shape.
RhoA
mutant lens placode cells are both longer and less apically constricted than control cells, thereby reducing epithelial curvature and invagination. By contrast,
Rac1
mutant lens placode cells are shorter and more apically restricted than controls, resulting in increased epithelial curvature and precocious lens vesicle closure. Quantification of RhoA- and Rac1-dependent pathway markers over the apical–basal axis of lens pit cells showed that in
RhoA
mutant epithelial cells there was a Rac1 pathway gain of function and vice versa. These findings suggest that mutual antagonism produces balanced activities of RhoA-generated apical constriction and Rac1-dependent cell elongation that controls cell shape and thus curvature of the invaginating epithelium. The ubiquity of the Rho family GTPases suggests that these mechanisms are likely to apply generally where epithelial morphogenesis occurs.
Fast liquid crystal light shutter
Authors: Komitov Lachezar , Hegde Gurumurthy , Kolev Dimitar
Published: October 2011

By proper assembling and electronic driving of two parallel single nematic liquid crystal cells with planar and vertical alignment of the liquid crystal molecules, respectively, arranged in a double cell, fast switching between bright and dark states, back and forth, is achieved. The switching rise and fall time of the device corresponds to the switching rise time of the cells from the relaxed to the switched state. The simultaneous transition of the cells from the switched to the relaxed state, however, remains optically hidden from the observer due to the optical compensation effect during this transition.
Island growth in electrodeposition
Authors: Guo Lian , Oskam Gerko , Radisic Aleksandar , Hoffmann Peter M , Searson Peter C
Published: October 2011

Electrochemical deposition of metals onto foreign substrates usually occurs through Volmer–Weber island growth. The mechanism of island nucleation and growth dictates the shape, orientation and number density of islands, and ultimately, the structure and properties of thin films. With increasing emphasis on deposition of ultrathin films and nanostructures, it is critically important to understand the kinetics of nucleation and growth. Here we provide a comprehensive review of island growth in electrodeposition and summarize methods for mechanistic analysis in both the kinetic and diffusion limited regimes.
Studies on optical, structural and electrical properties of atomic layer deposited Al-doped ZnO thin films with various Al concentrations and deposition temperatures
Authors: Maeng W J , Lee Jae-won , Lee Ju Ho , Chung Kwun-Bum , Park Jin-Seong
Published: October 2011

We investigated transparent conducting aluminium-doped zinc oxide thin films fabricated by atomic layer deposition (ALD). For the thermal ALD, diethylzinc and trimethylaluminium were used as the Zn and Al precursors, respectively. The electrical, structural and optical properties were systematically investigated as functions of the Al doping contents and deposition temperature. The best resistivity and transmittance (4.2 mΩ cm and ∼85%) were observed at an Al doping concentration of about 2.5 at% at 250 °C. An increase in the carrier concentration was observed with increasing deposition temperature and doping concentration. This can be explained by the effective field model of layered structures. Also, the enhancement of the mobility with increasing doping concentration was studied by the grain-boundary scattering and percolative conduction mechanism. By correlating the electrical and structural properties, it was found that varying the carrier concentration was more effective in changing the mobility than the grain-boundary scattering, due to the hopping conduction.
Isometries of the unitary group
Authors: Hatori Osamu , Molnár Lajos
Published: October 2011

In this paper we describe all surjective isometries of the unitary group of a complex Hilbert space. A result on Thompson isometries of the space of all invertible positive elements of a unital

C
∗

C^*

-algebra is also presented.
VizPrimer: a web server for visualized PCR primer design based on known gene structure
Authors: Zhou Yang , Qu Wubin , Lu Yiming , Zhang Yanchun , Wang Xiaolei , Zhao Dongsheng , Yang Yi , Zhang Chenggang
Published: October 2011

Summary: The visualization of gene structure plays an important role in polymerase chain reaction (PCR) primer design, especially for eukaryotic genes with a number of splice variants that users need to distinguish between via PCR. Here, we describe a visualized web server for primer design named VizPrimer. It utilizes the new information technology (IT) tools, HTML5 to display gene structure and JavaScript to interact with the users. In VizPrimer, the users can focus their attention on the gene structure and primer design strategy, without wasting time calculating the exon positions of splice variants or manually configuring complicated parameters. In addition, VizPrimer is also suitable for the design of PCR primers for amplifying open reading frames and detecting single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs).

Availability: VizPrimer is freely available at http://biocompute.bmi.ac.cn/CZlab/VizPrimer/. The web server supported browsers: Chrome (≥5.0), Firefox (≥3.0), Safari (≥4.0) and Opera (≥10.0).

Contact:  zhangcg@bmi.ac.cn; yangyi528@vip.sina.com
Pharmacogenomic Strain Differences in Cardiovascular Sensitivity to Propofol
Authors: Stekiel Thomas A. , Contney Stephen J. , Roman Richard J. , Weber Craig A. , Stadnicka Anna , Bosnjak Zeljko J. , Greene Andrew S. , Moreno Carol
Published: October 2011

Introduction

A pharmacogenomic approach was used to further localize the genetic region responsible for previously observed enhanced cardiovascular sensitivity to propofol in Dahl Salt Sensitive (SS) versus control Brown Norway (BN) rats.

Methods

Propofol infusion levels that decreased blood pressure by 50% were measured in BN.13(SS) rats (substitution of SS chromosome 13 into BN) and in five congenic (partial substitution) strains of SS.13(BN). The effect of superfused 2,6 diisopropylphenol on small mesenteric arterial vascular smooth muscle transmembrane potential was measured in congenic strains before and during superfusion with Rp-adenosine-3',5'-cyclic monophosphorothioate and 2.5 μM (Rp)-8-(para-chlorophenylthio)guanosine-3',5'-cyclic monophosphorothioate, inhibitors of protein kinase A and G, respectively. The genetic locus and potential role of the renin gene in mediating vascular smooth muscle sensitivity to propofol were determined in three selected subcongenic SS.BN¹³ strains.

Results

A 30-32% smaller propofol infusion rate reduced blood pressure by 50% in BN.13(SS) compared with BN and the SS.13(BN) congenic containing an 80 BN gene substitution. Compared with the 80 BN gene-containing SS.13(BN) congenic, SS exhibited greater protein kinase A dependent vascular smooth muscle hyperpolarization in response to propofol. Using subcongenics, the increased propofol-induced cardiovascular sensitivity and hyperpolarization was further localized to an eight-gene region (containing the BN renin gene). Blockade of angiotensin receptors with losartan in this subcongenic increased propofol-induced hyperpolarization by threefold to that observed in SS.

Conclusions

Enhanced cardiovascular sensitivity to propofol in SS (compared with BN) is caused by an altered renin gene. Through modified second messenger function, this differentially regulates vascular smooth muscle contractile state and reduces vascular tone, thereby exacerbating cardiovascular depression by propofol.
Purification and characterization of a secretory lipolytic enzyme, MgLIP2, from Malassezia globosa
Authors: Juntachai Weerapong , Oura Takahiro , Kajiwara Susumu
Published: October 2011

Malassezia globosa is a lipid-dependent yeast that is found on the human skin and is associated with various skin disorders, including dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis (SD). Despite its important role in skin diseases, the molecular basis for its pathogenicity is poorly understood. The current hypothesis is that dandruff and SD are linked to fatty acid metabolism and secretory lipolytic enzymes, which hydrolyse sebaceous lipids and release irritating free fatty acids. A previous genomic analysis of M. globosa identified a family of 13 homologous genes predicted to encode secreted lipases. We have also reported that M. globosa had significantly higher extracellular lipase activity compared with other species. To identify the major secretory lipases of this yeast during its growth, we successfully purified and characterized an extracellular lipase MgLIP2. Based on MALDI-TOF MS, the peptide mass fingerprint of a tryptically digested protein MgLIP2 corresponded to ORF MGL_4054 of M. globosa. This lipase showed high esterase activity against 4-nitrophenyl palmitate and 1-naphthyl palmitate but not 1-naphthyl acetate. This enzyme had optimal activity at 30 °C and pH 5.0. Furthermore, the activity significantly increased in the presence of Triton X-100 and was partially inhibited by PMSF but was unaffected by univalent and divalent metal ions.
Mule determines the apoptotic response to HDAC inhibitors by targeted ubiquitination and destruction of HDAC2
Authors: Zhang Jing , Kan Shu , Huang Brian , Hao Zhenyue , Mak Tak W. , Zhong Qing
Published: October 2011

Histone deacetylases (HDACs) are major epigenetic modulators involved in a broad spectrum of human diseases including cancers. Administration of HDAC inhibitors (HDACis) leads to growth inhibition, differentiation, and apoptosis of cancer cells. Understanding the regulatory mechanism of HDACs is imperative to harness the therapeutic potentials of HDACis. Here we show that HDACi- and DNA damage-induced apoptosis are severely compromised in mouse embryonic fibroblasts lacking a HECT domain ubiquitin ligase, Mule (Mcl-1 ubiquitin ligase E3). Mule specifically targets HDAC2 for ubiquitination and degradation. Accumulation of HDAC2 in Mule-deficient cells leads to compromised p53 acetylation as well as crippled p53 transcriptional activation, accumulation, and apoptotic response upon DNA damage and Nutlin-3 treatments. These defects in Mule-null cells can be partially reversed by HDACis and fully rescued by lowering the elevated HDAC2 in Mule-null cells to the normal levels as in wild-type cells. Taken together, our results reveal a critical regulatory mechanism of HDAC2 by Mule and suggest this pathway determines the cellular response to HDACis and DNA damage.
Silicon-Induced Changes in Antifungal Phenolic Acids, Flavonoids, and Key Phenylpropanoid Pathway Genes during the Interaction between Miniature Roses and the Biotrophic Pathogen Podosphaera pannosa
Authors: Shetty Radhakrishna , Fretté Xavier , Jensen Birgit , Shetty Nandini Prasad , Jensen Jens Due , Jørgensen Hans Jørgen Lyngs , Newman Mari-Anne , Christensen Lars Porskjær
Published: October 2011

Application of 3.6 mm silicon (Si+) to the rose (Rosa hybrida) cultivar Smart increased the concentration of antimicrobial phenolic acids and flavonoids in response to infection by rose powdery mildew (Podosphaera pannosa). Simultaneously, the expression of genes coding for key enzymes in the phenylpropanoid pathway (phenylalanine ammonia lyase, cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase, and chalcone synthase) was up-regulated. The increase in phenolic compounds correlated with a 46% reduction in disease severity compared with inoculated leaves without Si application (Si−). Furthermore, Si application without pathogen inoculation induced gene expression and primed the accumulation of several phenolics compared with the uninoculated Si− control. Chlorogenic acid was the phenolic acid detected in the highest concentration, with an increase of more than 80% in Si+ inoculated compared with Si− uninoculated plants. Among the quantified flavonoids, rutin and quercitrin were detected in the highest concentrations, and the rutin concentration increased more than 20-fold in Si+ inoculated compared with Si− uninoculated plants. Both rutin and chlorogenic acid had antimicrobial effects on P. pannosa, evidenced by reduced conidial germination and appressorium formation of the pathogen, both after spray application and infiltration into leaves. The application of rutin and chlorogenic acid reduced powdery mildew severity by 40% to 50%, and observation of an effect after leaf infiltration indicated that these two phenolics can be transported to the epidermal surface. In conclusion, we provide evidence that Si plays an active role in disease reduction in rose by inducing the production of antifungal phenolic metabolites as a response to powdery mildew infection.
Porphyrin Biosynthesis Control under Water Stress: Sustained Porphyrin Status Correlates with Drought Tolerance in Transgenic Rice
Authors: Phung Thu-Ha , Jung Ha-il , Park Joon-Heum , Kim Jin-Gil , Back Kyoungwhan , Jung Sunyo
Published: October 2011

A controlled flow of porphyrin metabolites is critical for organisms, but little is known about the control of porphyrin biosynthesis under environmental stress. We monitored transgenic rice (Oryza sativa) plants expressing Myxococcus xanthus protoporphyrinogen oxidase (PPO) for their response to drought stress. Transgenic plants showed significantly improved drought tolerance, as indicated by a higher shoot water potential, less oxidative damage, and a more favorable redox balance compared with wild-type plants. Both transgenic and wild-type plants responded to the onset of drought stress, even prior to changes in shoot water potential and oxidative metabolism, by drastically scavenging porphyrin intermediates in leaves, which was crucial for alleviating reactive oxygen species-induced stress. Protoporphyrin IX, protochlorophyllide, magnesium-protoporphyrin IX, and its methyl ester were absent or hardly detected with the intensification of water stress (–3.1 MPa) in the wild type, whereas transgenic plants retained these intermediates to some extent. Additionally, the expression and activity of most enzymes involved in porphyrin biosynthesis, particularly in the chlorophyll branch, were primarily down-regulated under dehydrating conditions, with stronger repression in the wild type than in transgenic plants. There was up-regulation of Glutamate 1-Semialdehyde Aminotransferase, PPO1, and Fe Chelatase2 transcripts in drought-stressed transgenic plants, enabling the transgenic plants to make larger pools of 5-aminolevulinic acid and protoporphyrin IX available for subsequent steps in the heme branch. Overexpression of PPO ultimately protected the transgenic plants from drought-induced cytotoxicity, demonstrating clearly that manipulation of porphyrin biosynthesis can produce drought-tolerant plants. Our results support a possible role for tetrapyrroles in signaling their metabolic state and in plant protection under drought stress conditions.
Systematics and evolution of syllids (Annelida, Syllidae)
Authors: Aguado M. Teresa , San Martín Guillermo , Siddall Mark E.
Published: October 2011

A large, combined phylogenetic analysis (including morphological and molecular data from 18S rDNA, 16S rDNA and cytochrome c oxidase subunit I), with the highest number of species and genera of Syllidae studied to date (213 terminals), is examined. The data were explored with different parameters and optimality criteria (parsimony, likelihood, and bayesian inference). The monophyly of Syllidae and most of the traditional subfamilies is supported. The subfamily Eusyllinae is polyphyletic, as currently delineated, but it is herein reorganized and its diagnosis modified to be a valid group. Additional well supported clades arise. The phylogenetic relationships of the well known and established genera, as well as several enigmatic genera (e.g. Anguillosyllis, Paraopisthosyllis and Parahaplosyllis), the position of which in syllid taxonomy was uncertain or dubious to date, are clarified. The results corroborate previous hypotheses about the evolution of the reproductive and brooding modes. Within Syllinae, the nature of the stolon is phylogenetically informative. The classification of the whole family is revised and discussed on the basis of this phylogenetic hypothesis.

© The Willi Hennig Society 2011.
Antitumor activities of valproic acid on Epstein–Barr virus‐associated T and natural killer lymphoma cells
Authors: Iwata Seiko , Saito Takashi , Ito Yoshinori , Kamakura Maki , Gotoh Kensei , Kawada Jun‐ichi , Nishiyama Yukihiro , Kimura Hiroshi
Published: October 2011

Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), which infects B cells, T cells, and natural killer (NK) cells, is associated with multiple lymphoid malignancies. Recently, histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors have been reported to have anticancer effects against various tumor cells. In the present study, we evaluated the killing effect of valproic acid (VPA), which acts as an HDAC inhibitor, on EBV‐positive and ‐negative T and NK lymphoma cells. Treatment of multiple T and NK cell lines (SNT13, SNT16, Jurkat, SNK6, KAI3 and KHYG1) with 0.1‐5 mM of VPA inhibited HDAC, increased acetylated histone levels and reduced cell viability. No significant differences were seen between EBV‐positive and ‐negative cell lines. Although VPA induced apoptosis in some T and NK cell lines (SNT16, Jurkat and KHYG1) and cell cycle arrest, it did not induce lytic infection in EBV‐positive T or NK cell lines. Because the killing effect of VPA was modest (1 mM VPA reduced cell viability by between 22% and 56%), we tested the effects of the combination of 1 mM of VPA and 0.01 μM of the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib. The combined treated of cells with VPA and bortezomib had an additive killing effect. Finally, we administered VPA to peripheral blood mononuclear cells from three patients with EBV‐associated T or NK lymphoproliferative diseases. In these studies, VPA had a greater killing effect against EBV‐infected cells than uninfected cells, and the effect was increased when VPA was combined with bortezomib. These results indicate that VPA has antitumor effects on T and NK lymphoma cells and that VPA and bortezomib may have synergistic effects, irrespective of the presence of EBV. (Cancer Sci 2012; 103: 375–381)
Ensuring successful admission to hospital for young people with learning difficulties, autism and challenging behaviour: a continuous quality improvement and change management programme
Authors: Pratt K. , Baird G. , Gringras P.
Published: October 2011

Background  Children and young people with autism spectrum conditions frequently have adverse experiences in accessing health care.

Methods  An audit of experiences of families known to our tertiary service and hospital staff was conducted. A checklist asking about particular aspects of behaviour and communication was developed and incorporated into pre‐admission planning.

Results  Awareness of the child/young person's communication needs and behaviours, plus good preplanning by all staff involved and a team member allocated to ensure that the care plan is carried through, has resulted in a vastly improved ‘patient experience’ from the perspective of family and staff.

Conclusion  Children and young people with autism spectrum disorder, often with co‐existing learning difficulties, vary greatly in their reactions to hospital admission. Preplanning that involves the family with a dedicated informed staff member can dramatically reduce distress and improve the patient and staff experience.
Maximizing the accuracy of Inferior petrosal sinus sampling: validation of the use of Prolactin as a marker of pituitary venous effluent in the diagnosis of Cushing’s disease
Authors: Grant Paul , Dworakowska Dorota , Carroll Paul
Published: October 2011

Objective  This study aimed to increase the accuracy of the inferior petrosal sinus sampling (IPSS) procedure and reduce the false‐negative rate through the addition of prolactin as a marker of pituitary venous outflow as well as validate this adjunct to the test process.

Context  Inferior petrosal sinus sampling (IPSS) for ACTH is the current gold standard test for the differentiation of pituitary Cushing’s disease from the ectopic ACTH syndrome. Although early studies with IPSS reported a diagnostic sensitivity and specificity approaching 100%, additional experience has revealed a false‐negative rate of 1–10%. This has been attributed to either technical problems with unsuccessful petrosal sinus catheterization or anomalous venous drainage of the pituitary. Previous studies have suggested that the measurement of other anterior pituitary hormones may be useful during IPSS as a guide to the effectiveness of cannulation and to improve the diagnostic accuracy of the procedure.

Design  We reviewed the data, in this retrospective cohort study, for all patients who had undergone IPSS for the investigation of ACTH‐dependent hypercortisolism.

Patients  The study included 83 patients who underwent IPSS at St. Thomas’s hospital between 2005 and 2010.

Measurements  Plasma ACTH and prolactin levels were measured both centrally and peripherally. The normalized ACTH/Prolactin inferior petrosal sinus/peripheral ratio was then calculated to assess the accuracy of the sampling procedure.

Results  A total of 83 patients with confirmed ACTH‐dependent cortisol excess underwent investigation with IPSS during the study period. Sixty‐seven patients initially had a positive IPSS result (i.e. a basal central/peripheral ACTH ratio >2·0 and >3·0 post‐CRH). However, when the concurrent prolactin data were used, six patients were additionally found to have positive results suggestive of pituitary Cushing’s. The Prolactin normalized ACTH IPS/Peripheral ratios were all >0·8 in patients with proven Cushing’s disease, whereas they were all <0·6 in proven ectopic ACTH syndrome. The diagnosis was subsequently confirmed histologically in 72 of the patients.

Conclusions  Using Prolactin as a concurrent index of pituitary venous effluent helps us recognize whether pituitary venous blood has been accurately sampled. Normalizing the IPS/peripheral ratios with Prolactin helps to improve the accuracy of the result and reduces the false‐negative rate. With regards to the usefulness/validity of this test in clinical practice, it is relevant, reproducible and is easily adaptable from the existing diagnostic sequence.
Multispecies fisheries management in the Mediterranean Sea: application of the Fcube methodology
Authors: MARAVELIAS C. D. , DAMALAS D. , ULRICH C. , KATSANEVAKIS S. , HOFF A.
Published: October 2011

Abstract  The ecosystem approach (EA) advocates that advice should be given based on a holistic management of the entire marine ecosystem and all fisheries and fleets involved. Recent developments have advanced to multi‐species, multi‐fisheries advice, rather than on a single‐species/fleet/area stock basis, bridging the gap between existing single‐species approaches and the needs of the EA. The Fleet and Fisheries Forecast method (Fcube) method estimates potential levels of effort by fleet in mixed fisheries situations to achieve specific targets of fishing mortality. Data on effort, landings and socioeconomic parameters were used for coastal and trawl fisheries in the Aegean Sea. Results pointed out the strengths and weaknesses of alternative management strategies from both a biological and socioeconomic perspective. Fcube revealed the importance of effort control in the coastal fisheries that are still managed with no effort restrictions. The present findings, although preliminary, revealed that stringent cuts to effort and catch levels are required if EA management goals are to be met. The Fcube methodology, initially developed for mixed fisheries advice in northern European waters that are managed with TACs, also proved promising in providing advice to non‐TAC fisheries.
Towards a life‐history‐based management framework for the effects of flow on juvenile salmonids in streams and rivers
Authors: NISLOW K. H. , ARMSTRONG J. D.
Published: October 2011

Abstract  Salmonid fishes have complex life cycles involving major changes in habitat requirements at different stages in their life history. Effects of changes in flow and flow regime on salmonids are therefore highly stage‐specific. Successful management requires consideration of stage‐specific influences and integration of these effects over the entire life history to predict ultimate impacts on abundance and population viability. The state of science regarding stage‐specific influences of flow regime on juvenile salmonids and their habitats, referring specifically to fundamental attributes of natural regimes and to characteristic alterations of these regimes associated with water management, is reviewed. It appears that a key consideration in integrating the stage‐specific impacts of flow is the extent to which flow‐related losses or gains early in ontogeny can be compensated by increased growth or survival later in juvenile life history. Further, fundamental interactions between flow and water temperature must be incorporated into the robust models ultimately required for science‐based management. In the absence of such models and data, the current state of science may be sufficient to target specific aspects of flow regimes that are critical to multiple life‐history stages, which can then serve as a basis for interim flow prescriptions and subsequent adaptive management.
Seasonal movements of non‐native lake trout in a connected lake and river system
Authors: MUHLFELD C. C. , GIERSCH J. J. , MAROTZ B.
Published: October 2011

Abstract  Non‐native lake trout, Salvelinus namaycush (Walbaum), threaten native salmonid populations in the western United States. Effective management of lake trout requires understanding movements within connected lake and river systems. This study determined the seasonal movements of subadult lake trout in the Flathead River upstream of Flathead Lake, Montana, USA using radio telemetry. The spatiotemporal distribution of lake trout in the river was related to water temperature. Lake trout were detected in the river primarily during autumn, winter and spring, when water temperatures were cool. By contrast, fewer were detected when temperatures were warmest during summer and during high spring flows. Downriver movements to Flathead Lake occurred throughout autumn and winter when water temperature decreased below 5 °C, and in late spring as water temperature rose towards 15 °C and river discharge declined following spring runoff. Upriver movements occurred primarily in October, which coincided with migrations of prey fishes. These results suggest that lake trout are capable of moving throughout connected river and lake systems (up to 230 km) and that warm water temperatures function as an impediment to occupancy of the river during summer. Controlling source populations and maintaining natural water temperatures may be effective management strategies for reducing the spread of non‐native lake trout.
Using stable isotope analyses to determine the ecological effects of non‐native fishes
Authors: CUCHEROUSSET J. , BOULETREAU S. , MARTINO A. , ROUSSEL J.‐M. , SANTOUL F.
Published: October 2011

Abstract Freshwater fish ecology has greatly benefited from the use of innovative tools such as stable isotope analysis to determine the ecological effects of non‐native fishes. Stable isotope analyses are based on the predictable relationship between the isotope composition of a consumer and its prey, and have become increasingly popular amongst aquatic ecologists. In parallel, they have been implemented as a sensitive, cost‐effective and temporally integrative tool to analyse the trophic interactions between native and non‐native species, and to detect some subtle ecological effects of human activities, such as the introduction of non‐native freshwater fish species. This review aimed to understand how stable isotope analyses have been used and how they have provided new insights into the ecological impacts of non‐native freshwater fishes. Specifically, the published literature (45 articles) was reviewed to establish the current state‐of‐the‐art. The use of stable isotope analyses in the field is still an emerging approach. The majority of studies were conducted on lentic ecosystems in North America targeting three main families of non‐native fish species. Measurements were most commonly made with carbon and nitrogen stable isotopes using muscle samples. The most recent theoretical and methodological advances were illustrated by selecting some case studies conducted with different non‐native species and biotic interactions. Finally, several recommendations for an optimised use of stable isotope analyses for freshwater ecological studies related to trophic interactions of non‐native freshwater fish species were established.
Paleoreconstruction of estuarine sediments reveal human‐induced weakening of coastal carbon sinks
Authors: Macreadie Peter I. , Allen Katie , Kelaher Brendan P. , Ralph Peter J. , Skilbeck Charles G.
Published: October 2011

Human activities in coastal areas frequently cause loss of benthic macrophytes (e.g. seagrasses) and concomitant increases in microalgal production through eutrophication. Whether such changes translate into shifts in the composition of sediment detritus is largely unknown, yet such changes could impact the role these ecosystems play in sequestrating CO2. We reconstructed the sedimentary records of cores taken from two sites within Botany Bay, Sydney – the site of European settlement of Australia – to look for human‐induced changes in dominant sources of detritus in this estuary. Cores covered a period from the present day back to the middle Holocene (~6000 years) according to 210Pb profiles and radiocarbon (14C) dating. Depositional histories at both sites could not be characterized by a linear sedimentation rate; sedimentation rates in the last 30–50 years were considerably higher than during the rest of the Holocene. C : N ratios declined and began to exhibit a microalgal source signature from around the time of European settlement, which could be explained by increased nutrient flows into the Bay caused by anthropogenic activity. Analysis of stable isotopic ratios of 12C/13C showed that the relative contribution of seagrass and C3 terrestrial plants (mangroves, saltmarsh) to detritus declined around the time of rapid industrial expansion (~1950s), coinciding with an increase in the contribution of microalgal sources. We conclude that the relative contribution of microalgae to detritus has increased within Botany Bay, and that this shift is the sign of increased industrialization and concomitant eutrophication. Given the lower carbon burial efficiencies of microalgae (~0.1%) relative to seagrasses and C3 terrestrial plants (up to 10%), such changes represent a substantial weakening of the carbon sink potential of Botany Bay – this occurrence is likely to be common to human‐impacted estuaries, and has consequences for the role these systems play in helping to mitigate climate change.
Horizontal and elevational phylogeographic patterns of Himalayan and Southeast Asian forest passerines (Aves: Passeriformes)
Authors: Päckert Martin , Martens Jochen , Sun Yue‐Hua , Severinghaus Lucia Liu , Nazarenko Alexander A. , Ting Ji , Töpfer Till , Tietze Dieter Thomas
Published: October 2011

Aim  Zoogeographic patterns in the Himalayas and their neighbouring Southeast Asian mountain ranges include elevational parapatry and ecological segregation, particularly among passerine bird species. We estimate timings of lineage splits among close relatives from the north Palaearctic, the Sino‐Himalayan mountain forests and from adjacent Southeast Asia. We also compare phylogeographic affinities and timing of radiation among members of avian communities from different elevational belts.

Location  East Asia.

Methods  We reconstructed molecular phylogenies based on a mitochondrial marker (cytochrome b) and multilocus data sets for seven passerine groups: Aegithalidae, Certhiidae (Certhia), Fringillidae (Pyrrhula), Paridae (Periparus), Phylloscopidae, Regulidae and Timaliidae (Garrulax sensu lato). Molecular dating was carried out using a Bayesian approach applying a relaxed clock in beast. Time estimates were inferred from three independent calibrations based on either a fixed mean substitution rate or fixed node ages. The biogeographic history of each group was reconstructed using a parsimony‐based approach.

Results  Passerine radiation in Southeast Asia can be divided into roughly three major phases of separation events. We infer that an initial Miocene radiation within the Southeast Asian region included invasions of (sub)tropical faunal elements from the Indo‐Burmese region to the Himalayan foothills and further successive invasions to Central Asia and Taiwan towards the early Pliocene. During two further Pliocene/Pleistocene phases, the subalpine mountain belt of the Sino‐Himalayas was initially invaded by boreal species with clear phylogenetic affinities to the north Palaearctic taiga belt. Most terminal splits between boreal Himalayan/Chinese sister taxa were dated to the Pleistocene.

Main conclusions  Extant patterns of elevational parapatry and faunal transition in the Sino‐Himalayas originated from successive invasions from different climatic regions. The initiation of Southeast Asian passerine diversification and colonization of the Himalayan foothills in the mid‐Miocene coincides with the postulated onset of Asian monsoon climate and the resulting floral and faunal turnovers. Patterns of elevational parapatry were established by southward invasions of boreal avifaunal elements to the subalpine Sino‐Himalayan forest belt that were strongly connected to climate cooling towards the end of the Pliocene. Current patterns of allopatry and parapatry in boreal species (groups) were shaped through Pleistocene forest fragmentation in East Asia.
Professional tears: developing emotional intelligence around death and dying in emergency work
Authors: Bailey Cara , Murphy Roger , Porock Davina
Published: October 2011

Aims and objectives.  This paper explores how emergency nurses manage the emotional impact of death and dying in emergency work and presents a model for developing expertise in end‐of‐life care delivery.

Background.  Care of the dying, the deceased and the bereaved is largely conducted by nurses and nowhere is this more demanding than at the front door of the hospital, the Emergency Department. Whilst some nurses find end‐of‐life care a rewarding aspect of their role, others avoid opportunities to develop a relationship with the dying and bereaved because of the intense and exhausting nature of the associated emotional labour.

Design.  Qualitative study using unstructured observations of practice and semistructured interviews.

Methods.  Observation was conducted in a large Emergency Department over 12 months. We also conducted 28 in‐depth interviews with emergency staff, patients with terminal illnesses and their relatives.

Results.  Emergency nurses develop expertise in end‐of‐life care giving by progressing through three stages of development: (1) investment of the self in the nurse–patient relationship, (2) management of emotional labour and (3) development of emotional intelligence. Barriers that prevent the transition to expertise contribute to occupational stress and can lead to burnout and withdrawal from practice.

Conclusions.  Despite the emotional impact of emergency deaths, nurses who invest their therapeutic self into the nurse–patient relationship are able to manage the emotional labour of caring for the dying and their relatives through the development of emotional intelligence. They find reward in end‐of‐life care that ultimately creates a more positive experience for patients and their relatives.

Relevance to clinical practice.  The emergency nurse caring for the dying patient is placed in a unique and privileged position to make a considerable impact on the care of the patient and the experience for their family. This model can build awareness in managing the emotive aspects involved in care delivery and develop fundamental skills of nursing patients near the end of life.
Recovery and status of native and introduced beavers Castor fiber and Castor canadensis in France and neighbouring countries
Authors: DEWAS Maeva , HERR Jan , SCHLEY Laurent , ANGST Christof , MANET Benoît , LANDRY Philippe , CATUSSE Michel
Published: October 2011

The Eurasian beaver Castor fiber suffered a drastic reduction in both geographical range and population size, due to human persecution, until the end of the 19th century. After the adoption of protection measures, natural expansion and reintroductions led to the recovery of this species over much of its European range.

We review historical events that led to the recovery of beavers in France, and summarize the status of beavers in various river systems. Beaver establishment in France is a story of overall success: several major river systems are presently occupied, so that the species is no longer at risk in France.

However, beaver recolonization took place in parallel with increasing human impacts on the environment. In addition to natural limiting factors, anthropogenic factors impeded beaver settlement in many areas. Today, beavers often occupy suboptimal habitats and, as a consequence, come into conflict with human activities. Effective solutions for preventing beaver damage include the restoration of riparian habitats to discourage crop damage and the provision of physical barriers to protect crops.

Beaver populations reintroduced into France all originate from the relict Rhône population. However, in recent years, beavers from populations in neighbouring countries have been expanding into north‐eastern France. Therefore, our review of beaver origin and distribution in these countries may contribute to the development of appropriate national management strategies and towards important decisions, e.g. the decision to try to keep Rhône beavers genetically isolated, or to allow populations to mix.

The recently discovered presence of North American beavers Castor canadensis in three countries surrounding France has raised an important issue. This species may out‐compete C. fiber in places where the species come into contact. A programme based on field‐trapping sessions and genetic analyses has recently been initiated in some western countries in order to eradicate this non‐native species.
More genetic data are needed before populations are mixed: response to ‘Sourcing Eurasian beaver Castor fiber stock for reintroductions in Great Britain and Western Europe’
Authors: ROSELL Frank , CAMPBELL‐PALMER Róisín , PARKER Howard
Published: October 2011

Halley described three options for sourcing Eurasian beavers Castor fiber for reintroduction in Britain and Western Europe: (i) use animals from populations within a single western evolutionarily significant unit (ESU); (ii) mix animals from two or three western ESUs; and (iii) mix animals from eastern and western ESUs. Option three contravenes International Union for Conservation of Nature guidelines, so debate should focus on options one and two. We believe there is a need for further genetic analysis, before a final decision can be made. This decision should not be heavily influenced by cost or be determined by the genotypes of existing captive or escaped populations.