bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrically conductive thin-film color filters made of single-material indium-tin-oxide
Authors: Yan Xing , Mont Frank W. , Poxson David J. , Cho Jaehee , Schubert E. Fred , Kim Min-Ho , Sone Cheolsoo
Published: May 2011

Periodic multilayer thin-film color filters (CFs) entirely made of nano-porous indium-tin-oxide (ITO) with tunable refractive index are explored. The interference CFs are electrically conductive and transmit light in the pass-band spectral region without absorbing light outside of the pass-band region. The transfer matrix method, implemented in conjunction with a genetic algorithm optimization method, is used to design the optimal thickness and refractive index of layers for red, green, and blue (RGB) filters. RGB filters with 2 pairs (4 layers) are experimentally demonstrated by using a porosity-controlling deposition technique for a single material—ITO. A maximum transmittance of 95.2% and a minimum transmittance of 26.2% are demonstrated for the four pairs of a red filter structure. A light recycling structure using these RGB filters is proposed to reduce the optical loss occurring in conventional liquid-crystal display systems.
High-performance and room-temperature-processed nanofloating gate memory devices based on top-gate transparent thin-film transistors
Authors: Kang Il-Suk , Kim Young-Su , Seo Hyun-Sang , Son Se Wan , Yoon Eun Ae , Joo Seung-Ki , Won Ahn Chi
Published: May 2011

Transparent nanofloating gate memory devices based on top-gate zinc oxide thin-film transistors were developed. The proposed devices contained a facile and dry-synthesized palladium nanocluster array as a charge-trapping layer. The good programmable memory characteristics were exhibited due to the thin tunneling oxide, caused by the top-gate structure. The good endurance, data retention capability, and environmental stability demonstrated by the proposed device made it suitable for nonvolatile memory applications. As the whole processes were carried at room temperature, this letter has a potential use in fabricating high-performance and high-reliability nonvolatile memory devices on flexible substrates.
Single-electron shuttle based on a silicon quantum dot
Authors: Chan K. W. , Möttönen M. , Kemppinen A. , Lai N. S. , Tan K. Y. , Lim W. H. , Dzurak A. S.
Published: May 2011

We report on single-electron shuttling experiments with a silicon metal-oxide-semiconductor quantum dot at 300 mK. Our system consists of an accumulated electron layer at the Si/SiO2 interface below an aluminum top gate with two additional barrier gates used to deplete the electron gas locally and to define a quantum dot. Directional single-electron shuttling from the source to the drain lead is achieved by applying a dc source-drain bias while driving the barrier gates with an ac voltage of frequency fp. Current plateaus at integer levels of efp are observed up to fp=240 MHz operation frequencies. The observed results are explained by a sequential tunneling model, which suggests that the electron gas may be heated substantially by the ac driving voltage.
Assessing improvement area policy
Authors: Meyer Peter
Published: May 2011

The Inner Cities Directorate of the DoE have commissioned a number of studies to examine and evaluate the impact of economic and environmental measures adopted under the Urban Programme. This paper examines one such study, namely an evaluation of designated Industrial and Commercial Improvement Areas. It comments on the criteria of assessment adopted, the methodology used and the conclusions drawn from the evaluation. The study in question is An Evaluation of Industrial and Commercial Improvement Areas, by the Joint Unit for Research on the Urban Environment (JURUE)(1), published in 1984.
The urban programme what has it achieved?
Authors: Richardson Pat
Published: May 2011

On the 13th November a one day seminar on the Urban Programme was held by the London Economic Policy Unit (LEPU) at the Polytechnic of the South Bank. This paper provides a short summary of the issues raised.
Contract compliance and equal opportunities
Authors: Smith Linda , Carr John
Published: May 2011

In 1983, the Greater London Council adopted a policy of ‘Contract Compliance’ designed to ensure that firms selling goods and services to the Council complied with its equal opportunity requirements. The initiative aroused wide interest and many other local authorities - 40 are known of to date — have been considering introducing such a policy. Although simple in essence, its execution can be complex and difficult. In April 1986, the Inner London Education Authority, a partner in the GLC policy, took over the Contract Compliance Unit following the GLCs abolition. Linda Smith explains the background to contract compliance, how the GLC, now ILEA, operates the policy; assesses its achievements and its significance and explores some of the lessons learnt in its three years of operation.
Innovation centres: The policy options for local authorities
Authors: Leigh Roger , North David
Published: May 2011

Over the last few years a growing number of local authorities have set up Innovation Centres (ICs) as part of their repertoire of initiatives aimed at local economic regeneration. According to the recently formed Association of Innovation Centre Executives, ICs exist to provide assistance to both individuals and small firms with the creation and development of new and improved products and processes which can demonstrate market potential(1). Yet a review of the experience of ICs to date reveals that there is no standard model of an IC that can be taken off the shelf. Roger Leigh and David North seek to clarify the various options and choices that are available to a local authority contemplating setting up an IC, using information and insights gained from a series of interviews with IC managers carried out in 1985(2).
Energy conservation — what price a local initiative?
Authors: Matthews Gerry , Tridgell Jeremy
Published: May 2011

With the collapse of oil prices, shortages and long term increases in energy prices seem far away, and conservation is the last thing on our minds. Thus, national energy supply monopolies encourage the use rather than conservation of energy, whilst the alleged prospect of a long-term increase in electricity demand is used to justify investment in nuclear power. This article examines how decentralisation and a greater local involvement in national energy policy could overcome this contradiction. It also finds that the conservation strategies developed, after the oil crisis of the 1970's, in several other countries have, surprisingly, no British equivalent.
Industrial property letting: Lessons from the GLC's policies and experience
Authors: Mason Andrew
Published: May 2011

The GLC, and the Greater London Enterprise Board, has been developing innovatory policies for letting industrial properties. The aim has been to support priority industrial sectors and to require “good employer” practices by tenants

Although the full value of this work has been cut short by the abolition of the GLC, the experience acquired raises important issues for other local authorities who wish to use their industrial property instrumentally to support other employment development policies.
Evaluating industrial improvement areas: A reply to Peter Meyer
Authors: Bozeat Nick
Published: May 2011

In Local Economy No. 1, Peter Meyer reviewed the JURUE report on evolution of industrial improvement areas. Nick Bozeat of JURUE wishes to make some comments on that review.
The construction of political agency: South Asian women and political activism
Authors: Takhar Shaminder
Published: May 2011

This article draws on research conducted with South Asian women working in a variety of organizations ranging from those that provide specialist services to training and anti-racist work. It is argued that despite stereotyping, these women have shown agency through involvement in civic organizations which has been crucial in understanding issues that are specifically relevant to South Asian women, for example, forced marriage and honour killings. The article also engages with feminist debates around the construction of political agency and its role in influencing social change and transformation within the South Asian community. The empowerment of women is discussed with reference to its central role in enabling them to take control over their lives.
Great expectations: a systematic review of the literature on the role of family carers in severe mental illness, and their relationships and engagement with professionals
Authors: ROWE J.
Published: May 2011

Accessible summary

A systematic review of the literature on family carers and severe mental illness.

Investigating expectations of the role of carer, and relationships and engagement with professionals.

Begins to recognize that carers are expected to fulfil some obligations and that they also have rights associated with their role.

Recommendations for future practice between mental health professionals and family carers that include more empathic communication, and a covenant between mental health services and people who rely on services.

As community care has become embedded in the UK as in much of the western world more responsibility for psychosocial care has been placed on family carers. A systematic review of the literature about the role of family carers supporting a relative with severe mental illness and their relationships and engagement with professionals was carried out. The review aimed to find out what professionals expected of family carers and what family carers expected of themselves. Themes were identified: the distinct and personal nature of family caring, potentially effective family caring, barriers to effective caring and ways to overcome barriers. There were expectations that family carers were obligated to help support effective care, but that the rights to enable carers to fulfil these obligations were not consistently upheld. Barriers to upholding rights include: types of service provision, professional attitudes to communication and engagement with carers, and carer ability to cope. Recommendations for practice included: service provision aimed at including carers, more empathic communication by professionals, and a covenant between mental health services and people who depend on them. The idea of a covenant requires more discussion and research is needed into what is expected of family carers.
Fault array evolution in extensional basins: insights from statistical analysis of gravel deposits in the Cecina River (Tuscany, Italy)
Authors: CIAMPALINI ANDREA , CONSOLONI ILARIA , SARTI GIOVANNI
Published: May 2011

Two statistical analyses of gravel clasts from the Lower Pleistocene deposits in the Lower Cecina Valley (Tuscany, Italy) have been combined to unravel changes in the palaeo‐drainage system. Data from 16 outcrops were collected and 6400 clasts described. Facies analysis, micro‐palaeontology and macro‐palaeontology and petrographic characteristics of the gravel deposits have highlighted the presence of three allostratigraphic units. Clast lithology is the main discriminator among these units. Cluster and principal component analyses of the 6400 clasts have improved understanding of the stratigraphy of the Lower Pleistocene deposits and constrain the re‐routing of the lower palaeo‐Cecina River from a supposedly south‐east to north‐west direction to the present east to west direction. Short rivers feeding small fan deltas represented by the oldest allostratigraphic units were abandoned in the Lower Pleistocene, when the re‐routing of the Cecina River caused the capture of these streams. This evolution suggests a change in the tectonic regime of the area. The fan deltas developed on the hanging wall of normal faults sub‐parallel to the coast; a change to a transtensile tectonic regime caused the deviation of the main river channel toward the present coast and the formation of a pull‐apart basin, which is now exploited by the Cecina River. This study illustrates the value of lithological analyses of gravel deposits for understanding the tectonic evolution of an area.
Recruitment of a duplicated primary metabolism gene into the nicotine biosynthesis regulon in tobacco
Authors: Shoji Tsubasa , Hashimoto Takashi
Published: May 2011

Gene duplication is a powerful source of phenotypic diversity in plants, but the molecular mechanisms that generate new functions in duplicated genes are not fully documented. Here, we analyzed how duplicated genes encoding quinolinate phosphoribosyltransferase (QPT), an enzyme involved in the synthesis of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) and the pyridine moiety of nicotine, are regulated by the jasmonate‐responsive transcriptional factor ERF189 that functions critically for nicotine biosynthesis in tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum). The tobacco genome contains duplicated QPT genes; QPT1 is expressed at a constitutive basal level, whereas QPT2 is regulated coordinately with other structural genes involved in nicotine biosynthesis, in terms of tissue specificity, jasmonate induction, and regulation by ERF189. The binding‐site specificity of ERF189 was defined as 5′‐(A/C)GC(A/C)(A/C)NCC‐3′ by using a characterized tobacco putrescine N‐methyltransferase promoter, and was then used to search for potential binding sites in the QPT promoters. Assays involving in vitro DNA binding, transient transactivation, and transgenic hairy roots revealed that the QPT2 promoter contains three functional ERF189‐binding sites, which individually confer incremental ERF189‐mediated activation to the promoter. The QPT1 promoter is not bound and regulated by ERF189. These results indicate that one copy of the duplicated QPT genes was recruited to a tobacco alkaloid regulon by evolving multiple target cis‐regulatory elements of ERF189 in its promoter, to cope with an increased metabolic demand for pyridine precursors during active alkaloid biosynthesis.
In vivo analysis of local wall stiffness at the shoot apical meristem in Arabidopsis using atomic force microscopy
Authors: Milani Pascale , Gholamirad Maryam , Traas Jan , Arnéodo Alain , Boudaoud Arezki , Argoul Françoise , Hamant Olivier
Published: May 2011

Whereas the morphogenesis of developing organisms is relatively well understood at the molecular level, the contribution of the mechanical properties of the cells to shape changes remains largely unknown, mainly because of the lack of quantified biophysical parameters at cellular or subcellular resolution. Here we designed an atomic force microscopy approach to investigate the elastic modulus of the outer cell wall in living shoot apical meristems (SAMs). SAMs are highly organized structures that contain the plant stem cells, and generate all of the aerial organs of the plant. Building on modeling and experimental data, we designed a protocol that is able to measure very local properties, i.e. within 40–100 nm deep into the wall of living meristematic cells. We identified three levels of complexity at the meristem surface, with significant heterogeneity in stiffness at regional, cellular and even subcellular levels. Strikingly, we found that the outer cell wall was much stiffer at the tip of the meristem (5 ± 2 MPa on average), covering the stem cell pool, than on the flanks of the meristem (1.5 ± 0.7 MPa on average). Altogether, these results demonstrate the existence of a multiscale spatialization of the mechanical properties of the meristem surface, in addition to the previously established molecular and cytological zonation of the SAM, correlating with regional growth rate distribution.
Preemptive versus prophylactic protocol to prevent cytomegalovirus infection after renal transplantation: a meta‐analysis and systematic review of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Zhang L.‐F. , Wang Y.‐T. , Tian J.‐H. , Yang K.‐H. , Wang J.‐Q.
Published: May 2011

L.‐F. Zhang, Y.‐T. Wang, J.‐H. Tian, K.‐H. Yang, J.‐Q. Wang. Preemptive versus prophylactic protocol to prevent cytomegalovirus infection after renal transplantation: a meta‐analysis and systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Transpl Infect Dis 2011: 13: 622–632. All rights reserved

Objective. This review was conducted to assess the efficacy of preemptive versus prophylactic protocols for the prevention and treatment of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection and disease after renal transplantation.

Methods. PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, SCI, the China Journal Full‐text Database, the Chinese Biomedical Database, the Chinese Scientific Journals Full‐text Database, and the CMA Digital Periodicals were searched to collect randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of preemptive versus prophylactic protocols for the prevention and treatment of CMV infections after renal transplantation (up to April 2010). Two reviewers independently extracted data using a designed extraction form. The quality of the included trials was evaluated according to the Cochrane Handbook. RevMan 5.0 software was used for data analysis.

Results. Seven RCTs, involving 560 patients, were included. The results of the meta‐analysis were as follows: the prophylactic protocol was significantly more effective than the preemptive protocol in reducing CMV infections and the recurrence rates of CMV infection; both the preemptive protocol and the prophylactic protocol reduced the risk of CMV disease, with no significant differences; no significant differences were observed in the risks of mortality, acute rejection, graft loss, other infections, or neutropenia between preemptive therapy and prophylaxis.

Conclusion. Preemptive protocols are as effective as prophylaxis in reducing the risk of CMV disease in renal transplant recipients, whereas the prophylactic protocols could more effectively reduce the CMV recurrence rates. However, the trial data were very sparse, so further observations of the long‐term effects of the protocols are needed.
Cervical varix complicating marginal placenta previa: A unique coexistence
Authors: Şükür Yavuz Emre , Yalçın İbrahim , Kahraman Korhan , Söylemez Feride
Published: May 2011

Uterine cervical varix (CV) is a very rare condition during pregnancy and may cause moderate to severe hemorrhage. We present the third reported case of huge CV coexisting with placenta previa in the English literature. A 40‐year‐old chronic hypertensive patient with marginal placenta previa also had cervical varix causing hemorrhage. At the 38th gestational week emergent cesarean section was performed because of placental abruption. Placenta previa is a risk factor for CV and patients with placenta previa who have moderate bleeding should be examined for this coexistence. The choice of management is close follow‐up and cesarean section close to term.
Stercoral perforation of the colon during pregnancy
Authors: Matsushita Tomoko , Yumoto Yasuo , Fukushima Kotaro , Hojo Satoshi , Ohishi Yoshihiro , Inoue Shigetaka , Wake Norio
Published: May 2011

A 39‐year‐old Japanese woman was referred to our hospital for severe abdominal pain at 22 weeks and 2 days of gestation. Abdominal computed tomography (CT) suggested perforation of the gastrointestinal tract and emergency surgery was conducted. There was a fibrous adhesion between an enlarged uterus and the sigmoid colon. There was a 5.0‐cm perforation near the adhesion in the posterior wall of the sigmoid colon. We performed a partial resection of the sigmoid colon and Hartmann's procedure with copious intraperitoneal lavage. Five hours following the laparotomy, uterine contractions could not be controlled and the patient delivered vaginally. The neonate died almost immediately after delivery. We conclude that although stercoral bowel perforation is rare, poor prognosis after perforation emphasizes the need to carry out a CT scan for patients who present with undiagnosed severe abdominal pain and compatible medical history, even if the patient is pregnant.
The Evolution and Contemporary Relevance of the Accession and Coronation Oaths of the United Kingdom
Authors: Bonney Norman
Published: May 2011

The accession and coronation oaths legitimate the monarchy and the UK political system but perpetuate a religious settlement originally legislated over 300 years ago. Some elements have been subsequently adjusted to reflect the changing composition of the union and in the 20th century influences from the ‘dominions’ have led to changes in the religious elements which have a questionable legal basis in the UK and significant domestic consequences. A major public review of them is necessary if they are to be adapted suitably for the changed circumstances of the contemporary era.
Psychological Traits and Earnings Differentials among Men: A Study of Second‐generation Immigrants in Sweden*
Authors: Hanes Niklas , Norlin Erik
Published: May 2011

The purpose of this study is to analyse the impact of psychological traits on earnings differentials between second‐generation immigrants and individuals with native‐born parents. The study is based on a cohort of men born in 1973 and residing in Sweden in 1990. In this paper, we use an indicator of psychological ability measured in connection with the military enlistment test in Sweden. The results show that the measure of psychological traits is an important determinant of earnings at the age of 30. Using an Oaxaca–Blinder decomposition, we find that earnings differentials between second‐generation immigrants and individuals with native‐born parents are explained, to a large degree, by differences in endowments of psychological traits.
Artificial Accelerated Ageing of GFRP Pultruded Profiles Made of Polyester and Vinylester Resins: Characterisation of Physical–Chemical and Mechanical Damage
Authors: Cabral‐Fonseca S. , Correia J. R. , Rodrigues M. P. , Branco F. A.
Published: May 2011

Abstract:  This article presents results of experimental investigations of the durability of glass‐fibre‐reinforced polymer (GFRP) pultruded profiles exposed to typical environments of civil engineering applications. Specimens obtained from commercial GFRP profiles made of unsaturated polyester and vinylester resins were subjected to immersion in (i) demineralised water and (ii) salt water at 20 °C, 40 °C and 60 °C for up to 18 months, (iii) continuous condensation at 40 °C for up to 9 months and (iv) accelerated ageing in a QUV chamber for up to 3000 h. The effects of such exposure conditions on both types of profiles were analysed in what concerns their (i) mass changes, (ii) viscoelastic response, evaluated by means of dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), (iii) mechanical response in tension, bending and interlaminar shear, and (iv) chemical changes, assessed through Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Hygrothermal ageing had significant influence on the material performance, namely on the mechanical response – demineralised water immersion caused a higher level of degradation, compared with salt water immersion, and results show a clear competition between moisture‐induced plasticisation and residual post‐curing of the composite matrix. Following QUV exposure, although considerable aesthetical changes were observed, the viscoelastic response and mechanical performance of both profiles were not remarkably affected, confirming that UV radiation affects essentially the outermost layers of GFRP profiles. In general, the GFRP profile made of vinylester resin exhibited better durability performance, when compared with its polyester counterpart.
The association between romantic relationships and delinquency in adolescence and young adulthood
Authors: CUI MING , UENO KOJI , FINCHAM FRANK D. , DONNELLAN M. BRENT , WICKRAMA K. A. S.
Published: May 2011

This study examined the association between romantic relationships and delinquency in adolescence and young adulthood. Using a large, longitudinal, and nationally representative sample, results from negative binomial regressions showed a positive association between romantic involvement and delinquency in adolescence. Furthermore, the cumulative number of romantic relationships from adolescence to young adulthood was positively related to delinquency in young adulthood even after controlling for earlier delinquency in adolescence. These analyses also controlled for the effects of participants' gender, age at initial assessment, puberty, race/ethnicity, and other demographic characteristics (e.g., family structure and parents' education). Findings are discussed in terms of their implications for understanding the role of romantic relationships in the development of young people and for stimulating future research questions.
The Value of Instructional Communication in Crisis Situations: Restoring Order to Chaos
Authors: Sellnow Timothy L. , Sellnow Deanna D. , Lane Derek R. , Littlefield Robert S.
Published: May 2011

This article explores the nature of instructional communication in responding to crisis situations. Through the lens of chaos theory, the relevance of instructional messages in restoring order is established. This perspective is further advanced through an explanation of how various learning styles impact the receptivity of various instructional messages during the acute phase of crises. We then summarize an exploratory study focusing on the relationship between learning styles and the demands of instructional messages in crisis situations. We conclude the article with a series of conclusions and implications.
Reading in English as a First or Second Language: The Case of Grade 3 Spanish, Portuguese, and English Speakers
Authors: Grant Amy , Gottardo Alexandra , Geva Esther
Published: May 2011

This study compared variables related to reading ability in Grade 3 students learning English as a first language (L1) and second language (L2). The students learning English as an L2 came from diverse backgrounds, with different levels of bilingualism in Spanish and English or Portuguese and English before they entered school. Both within‐group and between‐group differences emerged in comparing Spanish children from two cohorts, and in comparing the Spanish group to the Portuguese and English groups. Models predicting reading comprehension found differences with respect to the contribution of receptive vocabulary, decoding, and print exposure in the L1 and L2 groups, depending on the L2 students’ bilingual language status and language acquisition experiences. Additionally, print exposure was more highly related to comprehension in the lowest performing L2 groups. Implications and future directions are discussed.
Solving Word Problems Using Schemas: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Powell Sarah R.
Published: May 2011

Solving word problems is a difficult task for students at‐risk for or with learning disabilities (LD). One instructional approach that has emerged as a valid method for helping students at‐risk for or with LD to become more proficient at word‐problem solving is using schemas. A schema is a framework for solving a problem. With a schema, students are taught to recognize problems as falling within word‐problem types and to apply a problem solution method that matches that problem type. This review highlights two schema approaches for second‐ and third‐grade students at‐risk for or with LD: schema‐based instruction and schema‐broadening instruction. A total of 12 schema studies were reviewed and synthesized. Both types of schema approaches enhanced the word‐problem skill of students at‐risk for or with LD. Based on the review, suggestions are provided for incorporating word‐problem instruction using schemas.
Increased Intraatrial Conduction Abnormality Assessed by P‐Wave Signal‐Averaged Electrocardiogram in Patients with Brugada Syndrome
Authors: FURUKAWA YOSHIO , YAMADA TAKAHISA , OKUYAMA YUJI , MORITA TAKASHI , TANAKA KOJI , IWASAKI YUSUKE , UEDA HIROMICHI , OKADA TAKESHI , KAWASAKI MASATO , KURAMOTO YUKI , FUKUNAMI MASATAKE
Published: May 2011

Background:
 Atrial fibrillation (AF) is observed in patients with Brugada syndrome (BS), especially those showing coved‐type electrocardiogram (ECG) pattern. Using P‐wave signal‐averaged ECG (P‐SAE), we investigated whether increased intraatrial conduction abnormality contributed to AF generation in BS patients.

Methods:
 Twenty BS patients and 20 age‐ and gender‐matched healthy controls were enrolled. At the P‐SAE recording, 12 of the 20 BS patients showed coved‐type (C‐BS) and eight showed saddleback‐type (S‐BS). The total duration (Ad) and root mean square voltage for the terminal 20 ms (LP20) of the filtered P wave were measured. P‐wave dispersion (P‐disp) was defined as the difference between the maximum and minimum, measured from 16 precordial recording sites.

Results:
 BS patients had a significantly longer Ad (128.2 ± 7.6 vs 116.3 ± 8.2 ms, P < 0.0001), lower LP20 (2.6 ± 0.9 vs 3.4 ± 0.8 μV, P < 0.01), and greater P‐disp (15.5 ± 7.0 vs 7.4 ± 3.2 ms, P < 0.0001) than the controls. C‐BS patients had significantly longer Ad (131.0 ± 7.2 vs 124.1 ± 6.8 ms, P < 0.05) and lower LP20 (2.2 ± 0.6 vs 3.2 ± 1.0 μV, P < 0.05) than S‐BS patients. All C‐BS patients and only three S‐BS patients had atrial late potential (100% vs 38%, P < 0.01).

Conclusion:
 Intraatrial conduction delay and its heterogeneity may exist in BS patients, especially those showing coved‐type ECG patterns. These atrial electrical abnormalities could be a substrate for atrial reentrant tachycardia such as AF. (PACE 2011; 34:1138–1146)
Alternate Site Right Ventricular Pacing: Defining Template Scoring
Authors: MOND HARRY G. , FELDMAN ALEXANDER , KUMAR SAURABH , ROSSO RAPHAEL , HUNG THUY TO , PANG BEN
Published: May 2011

Background:
 Prolonged right ventricular (RV) apical pacing produces dysynchronous ventricular contraction, which may result in left ventricular (LV) dysfunction, whereas septal pacing sites might reflect a more synchronous LV activation. This study examined a method of evaluating alternate RV pacing sites using a template scoring system based on measuring the angle of lead attachment in the 40o left anterior oblique (LAO) fluoroscopic view and its effect on altering the loop of lead in the RV.

Methods:
 Twenty‐three consecutive patients for RV pacing were enrolled. Conventional active fixation leads were positioned in either the RV outflow tract (RVOT) or mid RV using a stylet designed for septal placement (Model 4140, St. Jude Medical, St. Paul, MN, USA). Using LAO cine fluoroscopy, a generous loop of lead was inserted into the RV chamber and the change in angle of attachment determined.

Results:
 Successful positioning of pacing leads at the RVOT septum (18 patients) and mid‐RV septum (five patients) was achieved. With introduction of more lead into the RV chamber, the angle of attachment in the LAO projection altered over a range of 6o–32o for all patients with a mean of 14.6 ± 6.6o. In 87% of patients, the range was predominantly within the same template score with only minor overlap into another zone.

Conclusions:
 This study shows that the angle of lead attachment in the RV is altered by introducing more lead, but in most cases, the template score remains the same. Further studies are required to determine the accuracy and efficacy of the templates. (PACE 2011; 34:1080–1086)
Why Recording of an Electrocardiogram Should be Required in Every Inpatient and Outpatient Encounter of Patients with Heart Failure
Authors: MADIAS JOHN E.
Published: May 2011

The electrocardiogram (ECG) has not as yet realized its potential in the diagnosis and management of patients with heart failure (HF). The current model of using the ECG qualitatively with reference to the presence of arrhythmias, heart rate changes, hypertrophy, previous myocardial infarctions, ischemia, and conduction abnormalities is nonspecific and of modest value. The author argues, using examples, that the employment of the ECG metrics of amplitude(s) of leads aVR, sum of leads I & II, sum of all six limb leads, and dimensions and the area of the negative component of the P‐wave from lead V1, in repeat ECGs from different clinical encounters, could provide the clinician with a powerful specific diagnostic and follow‐up instrument in the management of the edematous state of patients with HF. Although “eye‐balling” of changes in ECG hardcopies could suffice for this purpose, the increased availability at the “point of care” of automated measurements of ECG management systems renders application of these ideas all too easy. (PACE 2011; 34:963–967)
Atrial Fibrillation Induced and Converted by Domestic Supply Electric Shock
Authors: RAO USHA , AGARWAL AJIT
Published: May 2011

We present a case of persistent atrial fibrillation induced by a low‐voltage electric shock reverting back to sinus rhythm after a similar repeat shock. (PACE 2012; 35:e320–e321)
Treatment of a Giant Coronary Artery Aneurysm: Intravascular Ultrasound and Optical Coherence Tomography Findings
Authors: DUTARY JAIME , ZAKHEM BRIAN , DE LUCAS CAMINO BAÑUELOS , PAULO MANUEL , GONZALO NIEVES , ALFONSO FERNANDO
Published: May 2011

A giant coronary aneurysm (GCA) partially thrombosed was demonstrated in a 77‐year‐old patient evaluated for an inferior myocardial infarction. Primary angioplasty (balloon only) with suboptimal result was initially obtained. After triple antiplatelet and anticoagulation therapy (4 days), a new angiography was performed and a fusiform GCA was clearly delineated. A second percutaneous intervention was performed using a “scaffolding technique” with conventional stent and subsequent implantation of 2 polytetrafluoroethylene‐covered stents to successfully exclude the aneurysm. This case demonstrates a novel technique to treat long GCA. (J Interven Cardiol 2012;25:82–85)
A Case of a Bloated Face: SVC Syndrome Relieved by an Endovascular Approach
Authors: SZERLIP MOLLY , SINGH GUNDEEP , LUFT ULRICH C.
Published: May 2011

Superior vena cava (SVC) syndrome, or obstruction of blood returning from the head and upper extremities, is a syndrome that is rapidly increasing in the cardiovascular patient population due to the increasing use of transvenous devices such as permanent pacemakers, implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs), and indwelling venous access devices for hemodialysis.
This syndrome in the past has been seen predominately in the cancer population with malignancy being the most common reason for SVC syndrome. The management of this syndrome has largely been with a medical/supportive care approach or with surgical bypass. Given the advancement in the field of endovascular interventions and the increasing expertise in performing these procedures, an endovascular approach to relieving the SVC obstruction is rapidly becoming the treatment of choice for these patients. We describe a case of a patient who had a chronic indwelling port‐a‐cath who developed SVC syndrome, which was treated with an endovascular approach with stenting of the SVC/brachiocephalic vein junction. (J Interven Cardiol 2012;25:78–81)
Exercise and relaxation intervention for patients with advanced lung cancer: a qualitative feasibility study
Authors: Adamsen L. , Stage M. , Laursen J. , Rørth M. , Quist M.
Published: May 2011

Lung cancer patients experience loss of physical capacity, dyspnea, pain, reduced energy and psychological distress. The aim of this study was to explore feasibility, health benefits and barriers of exercise in former sedentary patients with advanced stage lung cancer, non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) (III–IV) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC) (ED), undergoing chemotherapy. The intervention consisted of a hospital‐based, supervised, group exercise and relaxation program comprising resistance‐, cardiovascular‐ and relaxation training 4 h weekly, 6 weeks, and a concurrent unsupervised home‐based exercise program. An explorative study using individual semi‐structured interviews (n=15) and one focus group interview (n=8) was conducted among the participants. Throughout the intervention the patients experienced increased muscle strength, improvement in wellbeing, breathlessness and energy. The group exercise and relaxation intervention showed an adherence rate of 76%, whereas the patients failed to comply with the home‐based exercise. The hospital‐based intervention initiated at time of diagnosis encouraged former sedentary lung cancer patients to participation and was undertaken safely by cancer patients with advanced stages of disease, during treatment. The patients experienced physical, functional and emotional benefits. This study confirmed that supervised training in peer‐groups was beneficial, even in a cancer population with full‐blown symptom burden and poor prognosis.
Quantifying species trait‐functioning relationships for ecosystem management
Authors: Comas L.H. , Goslee S.C. , Skinner R.H. , Sanderson M.A.
Published: May 2011

Questions:Can we use plant traits to make predictions about ecosystem functioning of different species mixtures, identify inherent trade‐offs of particular species, and design custom communities for desired ecosystem functions? Can we develop a methodology to address plant trait–functioning relationships in species‐level units, which are missing from measures of community functional diversity but needed for management?

Location:Grazing lands northeastern USA.

Method:We measured 53 physiological, morphological and growth traits for 19 plant species from glasshouse and field experiments. We developed a two‐step method to link species to ecosystem processes related to management goals of improving desirable forage production in grazing lands in northeastern USA.

Results:Species were distributed continuously, rather than clustering into discrete functional types. Grasses, legumes and forbs overlapped considerably in trait values with these common classifications failing to adequately distinguish functional differences. Factor analyses were used to assess variation in species traits, and to rate species for six plant processes through which species contribute to the production of desirable forage. Species performed well in some processes and poorly in others, illustrating complex trade‐offs.

Conclusions:This methodology provides a foundation for developing tools to guide construction of communities for applied settings, and for assembling hypotheses about plant functioning in mixtures.
Characterizing the complexity of enzymes on the basis of their mechanisms and structures with a bio‐computational analysis
Authors: Holliday Gemma L. , Fischer Julia D. , Mitchell John B. O. , Thornton Janet M.
Published: May 2011

Enzymes are basically composed of 20 naturally occurring amino acids, yet they catalyse a dizzying array of chemical reactions, with regiospecificity and stereospecificity and under physiological conditions. In this review, we attempt to gain some understanding of these complex proteins, from the chemical versatility of the catalytic toolkit, including the use of cofactors (both metal ions and organic molecules), to the complex mapping of reactions to proteins (which is rarely one‐to‐one), and finally the structural complexity of enzymes and their active sites, often involving multidomain or multisubunit assemblies. This work highlights how the enzymes that we see today reflect millions of years of evolution, involving de novo design followed by exquisite regulation and modulation to create optimal fitness for life.
Characteristics of clinical decision support alert overrides in an electronic prescribing system at a tertiary care paediatric hospital
Authors: Jani Yogini Hariprasad , Barber Nick , Wong Ian Chi Kei
Published: May 2011

Context

Electronic prescribing (EP) systems are advocated as a solution to minimise medication errors. Benefits in patient safety are often as a result of some clinical decision support (CDS) within the system.

Objective

To study the characteristics of the CDS alerts generated within a commercially available EP system in use at a tertiary care paediatric hospital in the UK.

Methods

Retrospective review and characterisation of CDS alerts recorded in the EP system over 1 year.

Results

A total of 16 182 conflict alerts were recorded when ordering 26 836 items, of which 3507 (13 alerts per 100 prescription orders (95% confidence interval, 12.8 to 13.6)) were visible to the user. Eighty nine percent (3119/3507) of all visible alerts were overridden by the user at point of prescribing. Drug-allergy conflict alerts were the most accepted, and exact drug duplication alerts the least.

Conclusion

We found a high incidence of alert override, which is undesirable but consistent with that reported in the literature. The results suggest that the underlying algorithms for alert generation in many EP systems are not specific and need to be reviewed.
The development of executive functions and early mathematics: A dynamic relationship
Authors: Van der Ven Sanne H. G. , Kroesbergen Evelyn H. , Boom Jan , Leseman Paul P. M.
Published: May 2011

Background. The relationship between executive functions and mathematical skills has been studied extensively, but results are inconclusive, and how this relationship evolves longitudinally is largely unknown.

Aim. The aim was to investigate the factor structure of executive functions in inhibition, shifting, and updating; the longitudinal development of executive functions and mathematics; and the relation between them.

Sample. A total of 211 children in grade 2 (7–8 years old) from 10 schools in the Netherlands.

Method. Children were followed in grade 1 and 2 of primary education. Executive functions and mathematics were measured four times. The test battery contained multiple tasks for each executive function: Animal stroop, local global, and Simon task for inhibition; Animal Shifting, Trail Making Test in Colours, and Sorting Task for shifting; and Digit Span Backwards, Odd One Out, and Keep Track for updating. The factor structure of executive functions was assessed and relations with mathematics were investigated using growth modelling.

Results. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) showed that inhibition and shifting could not be distinguished from each other. Updating was a separate factor, and its development was strongly related to mathematical development while inhibition and shifting did not predict mathematics in the presence of the updating factor.

Conclusions. The strong relationship between updating and mathematics suggest that updating skills play a key role in the maths learning process. This makes updating a promising target for future intervention studies.
GROWTH OF A GAS BUBBLE IN A SUPERSATURATED LIQUID UNDER THE EFFECT OF VARIANT CASES OF SURFACE TENSION
Authors: MOHAMMADEIN S. A. , MOHAMED K. G.
Published: May 2011

In this paper, the growth of a gas bubble in a supersaturated liquid is discussed for a constant and variable cases of surface tension effect. The mathematical model is solved analytically by using the method of Plesset and Zwick18after modified it. The growth process is affected by: diffusion coefficient D, Jacob number Ja, surface tension σ, adjustment factor b and void fraction ϕ0. The famous formula of Plesset and Zwick is produced as a special case of the results at some values of the adjustment factors. Moreover, for some values of the adjustment factors, good approximation is obtained when a comparison between our results and the result that produced by Hashemi et al.,9who solved the problem with the method of combining variables.
THERMODYNAMIC PROPERTIES OF SPIN-1/2 ISING-LIKE HEISENBERG MODEL ON TRIANGLE-BASED LATTICES
Authors: ISODA MAKOTO , NAKANO HIROKI , SAKAI TÔRU
Published: May 2011

Thermodynamic properties, specific heat and magnetic susceptibility, of spin-1/2 Ising-like Heisenberg model are investigated by an exact diagonalization method for small finite size kagome- and triangular-lattices up to 18-spins. The enhancement of magnetic susceptibility from the Curie–Weiss law and the peaks-structure of specific heat, rather generally detected experimentally in triangle-based spin systems including herbertsmithite, are interpreted as an intrinsic property of triangle-based frustrated spin systems with some extent of exchange anisotropy and are inferred as owing to a quantum-classical crossover.
TRAPPING COLD ATOMS BY A CARBON NANOTUBE
Authors: CHU T. A. , NGA D. T. , THAO T. T. , NGO V. THANH , VIET N. A.
Published: May 2011

A new model of cold atoms trap using a carbon nanotube is proposed. In this model, for the existence of a stable bound state of cold atom, we send a strong electromagnetic field through the carbon nanotube. This field generates an evanescent wave around the carbon nanotube and creates an effective attractive potential. The consideration of some possible boundary conditions leads to this non-trivial bound state solution. We compare also our result to the two most recent models concerning trapping of cold atoms by using a charged carbon nanotube and an optical fiber.
ELECTRON QUANTUM OPTICS IN QUANTUM HALL EDGE CHANNELS
Authors: GRENIER CHARLES , HERVÉ RÉMY , FÈVE GWENDAL , DEGIOVANNI PASCAL
Published: May 2011

In this paper, we review recent developments in the emerging field of electron quantum optics, stressing analogies and differences with the usual case of photon quantum optics. Electron quantum optics aims at preparing, manipulating and measuring coherent single electron excitations propagating in ballistic conductors such as the edge channels of a 2DEG in the integer quantum Hall regime. Because of the Fermi statistics and the presence of strong interactions, electron quantum optics exhibits new features compared to the usual case of photon quantum optics. In particular, it provides a natural playground to understand decoherence and relaxation effects in quantum transport.
ORIENTATIONAL STRESS TENSOR OF POLYMER SOLUTION WITH APPLICATIONS TO BLOOD FLOW
Authors: ZAMAN GUL , KANG YONG HAN , JUNG IL HYO
Published: May 2011

Blood circulating efficiently inside the veins and arteries, provides essential nutrients and oxygen to tissues and organs in the entire body. To highlight the fundamental properties of blood and gain insight into the regularizing effect of various formulations, we need to develop mathematical models. In order to do this, first we present the polymer dynamics in terms of an ensemble of Hookean dumbbells with Brownian configuration fields to derive the orientation stress tensor. Then, we describe the continuity and the momentum equations for time-dependent incompressible flow and the Oldroyd-B model. Finally, we present our numerical analysis of the model and give the effect of the orientation stress tensor in a blood vessel. The development of mathematical models and numerical procedures for the approximation of the blood specific flow equations have enabled us to understand the complex behaviors of blood flows inside the vessel.
A QUASI-LINEAR VISCOELASTIC MODEL FOR THE PASSIVE PROPERTIES OF THE HUMAN HIP JOINT
Authors: HEGER HENDRIK , WANK VEIT , BLICKHAN REINHARD
Published: May 2011

Properties of passive elastic structures constituting the human hip joint can be exploited to increase efficiency of human locomotion. As studies estimating the passive contributions to the net joint moment often disregard damping properties of the joint such contributions overestimate the energy gained during leg retraction within swing and stance phase. We built an experimental apparatus to measure moment-angle-relations during motor guided cyclic movements over a wide range of angular velocities and step-like changes in hip angle. On the basis of the experimentally gained data set the objective of this study was to model the elastic as well as the damping characteristics of the joint in the sagittal plane utilizing the Quasi-Linear Viscoelastic theory (QLV). A double exponential function was conveniently employed to describe the elastic response. The dependency of the hip joint stiffness on biarticular muscles was incorporated by repeating the measurement protocol for different knee angles. Due to the fact that the stiffness characteristics of the elastic response were merely shifted over knee angles we introduced an equilibrium angle at the hip joint as exponential function of the knee angle eventually yielding an elastic response as a function of hip and knee angle. In order to cover the damping characteristics the reduced relaxation function comprising a continuous spectrum of relaxation was utilized. We exemplify the applicability of the QLV model on published kinematic data on human walking and estimated that approximately 27% of the energy passively stored at the hip dissipates during the gait cycle.