bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selective response of antigen‐antibody reactions on chiral surfaces modified with 1,2‐diphenylethylenediamine enantiomers
Authors: Zhou Juan , Wang Lilan , Chen Qiao , Wang Yonghua , Fu Yingzi
Published: June 2011

This work reported a comparative analysis of the amperometric responses of antigen‐antibody reactions on two stable chiral surfaces which were modified with 1,2‐diphenylethylenediamine enantiomers. Alpha‐fetoprotein antibody and antigen (anti‐AFP and AFP) were selected as model systems. First, (1R,2R)‐1,2‐diphenylethylenediamine or (1S,2S)‐1,2‐diphenylethylenediamine was modified on the gold surface of the electrode through amide linkage to construct chiral surfaces. Then, anti‐AFP was immobilized on the chiral electrode surface by electrostatic and hydrogen bonding interactions. The electrochemical characteristics of the modified electrodes were studied via cyclic voltammetry. The selective current responses of antigen‐antibody reactions on chiral electrode surfaces for different incubation time and varying AFP concentrations were monitored. The antigen‐antibody reactions were greatly influenced by the chirality of 1,2‐diphenylethylenediamine enantiomers, and the amperometric responses obtained from the (1S,2S)‐1,2‐diphenylethylenediamine modified electrode was obviously stronger than that from the (1R,2R)‐1,2‐diphenylethylenediamine modified electrode. Such work may not only offer valuable reference to the research of chiral drugs, but also help to comprehend the high selectivity of chiral molecular species in biosystems. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The surface behavior of gilding layer imitations on polychrome artefacts of cultural heritage
Authors: Sandu I. C. A , Busani T. , de Sá M. H.
Published: June 2011

This paper proposes the first results of a larger study on the behavior of gilded surfaces of polychrome heritage artefacts with the aim to understanding the surface patterns and roughness variations before and after specific treatments (burnishing and varnishing). This study can be useful to trace correlations between the compositional features, manufacturing and applications/elaboration processes of gilding layers and the pattern of the surface topography, and also some insights into the degradation/corrosion mechanisms. The results obtained on imitations of gilded surfaces can be further useful for recognizing fake surfaces in the authentication of artefacts from the antiquity markets.

Two types of commercial imitations of gilded surfaces on a wooden support were considered: liquid ‘gold’ (Cu‐Zn powder in a solvent) and ‘gold’ leaf (Cu‐Zn leaf) applied over bole and gesso layers.

A combined analytical approach using atomic force microscopy (AFM), optical microscopy (OM) and colorimetry (CIE L*a*b* system) was applied in order to better understand the behavior of the gilded‐varnished surface and of the interface between the metal surface and the other preparative layers. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Morphology study of layered silicate/chitosan nanohybrids
Authors: Potarniche C. G. , Vuluga Z. , Donescu D. , Christiansen J. de C. , Eugeniu V. , Radovici C. , Serban S. , Ghiurea M. , Somoghi R. , Beckmann S.
Published: June 2011

Modification of clay with biopolymers has been of high interest in recent years. These new materials may be used for drug delivery systems and as biomaterials due to their high biocompatible properties and because they have the advantage of being biodegradable. The modification of montmorillonite (MMT) with chitosan was done in solution, at ratio 1:2 and at room temperature, or at stages of high temperature, and subjected to a microwave treatment. The influence of pH was observed upon the intercalation process.The obtained materials were characterized through X‐ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetrical analyses (TGA), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Using such a mixed treatment, the basal distance of modified MMT increased up to 3.6 nm. The results show the intercalation of chitosan between the layers of MMT and obtaining of intercalated and partial exfoliated nanocomposites. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Flexible ZnO–Cellulose Nanocomposite for Multisource Energy Conversion
Authors: Kumar Ashavani , Gullapalli Hemtej , Balakrishnan Kaushik , Botello‐Mendez Andres , Vajtai Robert , Terrones Mauricio , Ajayan Pulickel M.
Published: May 2011

Materials with the ability to harness multiple sources of energy from the ambient environment could lead to new types of energy‐harvesting systems. It is demonstrated that nanocomposite films consisting of zinc oxide nanostructures embedded in a common paper matrix can be directly used as energy‐conversion devices to transform mechanical and thermal energies to electric power. These mechanically robust and flexible devices can be fabricated over large areas and are capable of producing an output voltage and power up to 80 mV and 50 nW cm−2, respectively. Furthermore, it is shown that by integrating a certain number of devices (in series and parallel) the output voltage and the concomitant output power can be significantly increased. Also, the output voltage and power can be enhanced by scaling the size of the device. This multisource energy‐harvesting system based on ZnO nanostructures embedded in a flexible paper matrix provides a simplified and cost‐effective platform for capturing trace amounts of energy for practical applications.
Self‐Assembled Large Au Nanoparticle Arrays with Regular Hot Spots for SERS
Authors: Chen Aiqing , DePrince A. Eugene , Demortière Arnaud , Joshi‐Imre Alexandra , Shevchenko Elena V. , Gray Stephen K. , Welp Ulrich , Vlasko‐Vlasov Vitalii K.
Published: June 2011

The cost‐effective self‐assembly of 80 nm Au nanoparticles (NPs) into large‐domain, hexagonally close‐packed arrays for high‐sensitivity and high‐fidelity surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is demonstrated. These arrays exhibit specific optical resonances due to strong interparticle coupling, which are well reproduced by finite‐difference time‐domain (FDTD) simulations. The gaps between NPs form a regular lattice of hot spots that enable a large amplification of both photoluminescence and Raman signals. At smaller wavelengths the hot spots are extended away from the minimum‐gap positions, which allows SERS of larger analytes that do not fit into small gaps. Using CdSe quantum dots (QDs) a 3–5 times larger photoluminescence enhancement than previously reported is experimentally demonstrated and an unambiguous estimate of the electromagnetic SERS enhancement factor of ≈104 is obtained by direct scanning electron microscopy imaging of QDs responsible for the Raman signal. Much stronger enhancement of ≈108 is obtained at larger wavelengths for benzenethiol molecules penetrating the NP gaps.
Three‐dimensional sonography of the posterior fossa in fetuses with open spina bifida at 11–13 weeks' gestation
Authors: Scheier M. , Lachmann R. , Pětroš M. , Nicolaides K. H.
Published: May 2011

Objectives

To investigate the posterior fossa of normal fetuses and fetuses with open spina bifida in stored three‐dimensional (3D) volumes and to describe signs that might allow early detection of this defect.

Methods

A prospective study of 3D volumes of the fetal brain obtained from 10 normal fetuses and three fetuses with open spina bifida was undertaken. Measurements of the anteroposterior diameters of the cisterna magna and fourth ventricle were taken in the tilted axial view. In the mid‐sagittal plane the brainstem (BS) diameter and the brainstem–occipital bone (BSOB) distance were measured. The BS/BSOB ratio was calculated. All measurements were expressed as Z‐scores. Structural analysis of the differences in the posterior fossa between normal fetuses and fetuses with open spina bifida was undertaken.

Results

In normal fetuses all measurements were within ± 2.5 Z‐scores. In three fetuses with open spina bifida the BS Z‐scores were 2.7, 2.8 and 2.8; the BSOB scores were − 3.4, − 2.8 and − 2.9; the cisterna magna scores were − 5.6, − 3.7 and − 4.2; and the BS/BSOB ratio scores were 4.1, 9.7 and 8.9. In normal fetuses the cisterna magna was posterior to the fourth ventricle and extended along its entire length. In fetuses with open spina bifida the cisterna magna was partially or completely obliterated.

Conclusions

Assessment of the cranial posterior fossa is feasible at 11–13 weeks' gestation. There are distinct signs in fetuses with open spina bifida which can be evaluated by ultrasonography. Copyright © 2011 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Syntheses, Crystal Structures, and Luminescence Properties of Dinuclear Metal (Ag+ and Cu+) Complexes with the Ligand 2‐MTPP [2‐MTPP = 2‐(Methylthio)‐4‐(pyridin‐2‐yl)pyrimidine]
Authors: Zhu Hai‐Bin , Zhang Shu‐Ying , Lu Xin , Yang Wen‐Na , Gou Shao‐Hua , Chen Jing
Published: May 2011

Reactions of the ligand 2‐MTPP [2‐MTPP = 2‐(methylthio)‐4‐(pyridin‐2‐yl)pyrimidine] with AgNO3 and CuI produced dinuclear silver(I) (1) and copper(I) (2) complexes, respectively. Both complexes adopt a chair‐like structure in which two 2‐MTPP ligands and two metal ions are joined together through M–N and M–S coordination bonds. The luminescence properties of both complexes were investigated in solid state at room temperature.
Radiologic and Nuclear Medicine Predictors of Tumor Invasiveness in Patients With Clinical Stage IA Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Tamura Masaya , Oda Makoto , Matsumoto Isao , Shimizu Yosuke , Waseda Ryuichi , Watanabe Go
Published: June 2011

Background

The aim of this study was to analyze parameters to predict tumor invasiveness according to high‐resolution computed tomography and positron emission tomography in patients with clinical stage IA lung adenocarcinoma.

Methods

A total of 122 patients with clinical stage IA lung adenocarcinoma were enrolled in the study. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were constructed for three factors—the degree of solid tumor component (solid%), maximum standard uptake value (SUVmax) and tumor size—and cutoff values were determined to reveal the highest sensitivity and specificity to diagnose tumor invasiveness. We created an algorithm for detecting tumor invasiveness (model 1). The data for the three factors were combined and their ROC curves constructed (model 2). A prospective study was conducted to validate the utility of these models.

Results

Multivariate analysis identified solid%, SUVmax, and tumor size as potentially important predictors of tumor invasiveness. In the ROC curve analysis, solid% (area under the curve was 0.882) had the largest area under the curve, followed by the SUV (0.867) and tumor size (0.747). The combination assay using all three factors had the highest sensitivity and specificity for prediction (0.902). Models 1 and 2 were applied to the prospectively enrolled cases, and their utility was reviewed. Both models showed 100% sensitivity, with model 2 showing a slightly higher diagnostic value than model 1.

Conclusions

The solid portion ratio was a more powerful clinical predictor for lymphovascular invasion than the SUVmax. Our novel scoring model for tumor invasiveness can be employed for preoperative assessment of tumor invasiveness.
Pleiotropic Effects of a Schweinfurthin on Isoprenoid Homeostasis
Authors: Holstein Sarah A. , Kuder Craig H. , Tong Huaxiang , Hohl Raymond J.
Published: June 2011

The schweinfurthins, a family of natural products derived from the isoprenoid biosynthetic pathway (IBP), have marked growth inhibitory activity. However, the biochemical basis for the schweinfurthins cellular effects has remained ill‐defined. Here, the effects of the synthetic schweinfurthin, 3‐deoxyschweinfurthin (3dSB) on multiple aspects of isoprenoid homeostasis are explored. Cytotoxicity assays demonstrate a synergistic interaction between 3dSB and the HMG‐CoA reductase inhibitor lovastatin but not with other IBP inhibitors in a variety of human cancer cell lines. The cytotoxic effects of 3dSB were enhanced in cells incubated in lipid‐depleted serum. 3dSB was found to enhance the lovastatin‐induced decrease in protein prenylation. In addition, 3dSB decreases intracellular farnesyl pyrophosphate and geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate levels in both established cell lines and primary cells. To determine whether 3dSB alters the regulation of expression of genes involved in isoprenoid homeostasis, real‐time PCR studies were performed in human cell lines cultured in either lipid‐replete or ‐deplete conditions. These studies demonstrate that 3dSB abrogates lovastatin‐induced upregulation of sterol regulatory element‐containing genes and lovastatin‐induced downregulation of ABCA1. In aggregate, these studies are the first to demonstrate that a schweinfurthin exerts pleiotropic effects on isoprenoid homeostasis.
Paleoproterozoic Quartz-Pebble Conglomerate Type Uranium Mineralisation in Mankarhachua Area, Angul District, Orissa
Authors: Chakrabarti Kalyan , Ecka N.R.R. , Mishra B. , Babu P.V. Ramesh , Parihar P.S.
Published: June 2011

Ground Radiometric survey of Paleoproterozoic pyritiferous quartz-pebble conglomerate (QPC) occurring to the north of Pallahara area led to the discovery of a QPC type uranium mineralisation near Mankarhachua village. Significant radioactivity is recorded in three sub-parallel uraniferous QPC horizons with metamorphosed pebbly to medium grained recrystallised massive sandstones. Detrital grains of uranothorite, thorite, radioactive allanite, monazite, zircon, minute uraninite grains in carbonaceous matter and thucolite contributes to the radioactive phases present in QPC matrix. Adsorbed U on limonite and goethite, secondary uranyl minerals in matrix, along bedding planes and fractures are commonly observed. This discovery has opened up a new horizon for future exploration for QPC type uranium mineralization in the area. The paper presents observations on geology, radioactivity, petrological and geochemical nature of the uraniferous QPC horizons.
Chemical Weathering of the Indo-Gangetic Alluvium with Special Reference to Release of Fluoride in the Groundwater, Unnao District, Uttar Pradesh
Authors: Kumar S. , Saxena A.
Published: June 2011

In the central part of Indo-Gangetic alluvium in the Unnao district, Uttar Pradesh there are many pockets where groundwater shows high fluoride content. Drinking of fluorinated ground water has effected a large population and in many villages more than 80% of the population is suffering from fluorosis. The source of this fluoride appears to be the alluvial sediments deposited in the geological past as no hard rock terrain is present in the nearby areas. The area is dominantly made up of mud with pockets of sand. The sand fraction is made up of quartz, plagioclase, microcline, muscovite and biotite along with some accessory minerals like garnet, epidote, chlorite, tourmaline, hornblende, kyanite and a few opaque minerals. Moreover, the fluoride content in the groundwater varies both spatially and with depth indicating a sporadic occurrence. The surface water is devoid of high content of fluoride but is reported in hand pumps and in the dug wells. This paper deals with the geochemical study of the sediments up to a depth of 45m as most of the hand pumps are up to this depth to understand the source of fluoride. 14C dates of calcretes have suggested that the 45 m thick succession must have been formed in about 45000 years.

Two different location sites were selected; one showing higher concentration of fluoride (Marksnagar village) while at other site which is about 4 km east of Marksnagar, the fluoride content was minimal (Durgajkhera village). Major elements and 24 trace elements were determined using XRF and it was found that when major elements are normalized with respect to upper continental crust (UCC) there is an enrichment of Si in all the samples. Na shows depletion where as Ti and K show enrichment. Fe and Mn show enrichment probably due to the formation of clay minerals. Si, and K enrichment is due to weathering of feldspar while Mg, Fe and K may have been released by the weathering of biotite. The CIA for the ancient sediments ranges from 54 – 64 while for the modern sediments of the Ganga River it varies from 50 – 64 indicating that there is no change in the rate of weathering in both modern and ancient sediments. The rate of weathering at all the sample locations was compared with that of UCC. The CIA values also suggest that there is an incipient weathering and indicate that the weathering of biotite is more progressive than muscovite. There is also a positive correlation between CIA values and the fluoride content in the ground water. Higher percentage of biotite and chlorite (altered biotite) was found at Marksnagar in comparison to Durgajkhera. It appears that the fluoride content in the ground water is due to dissociation/alteration of mica minerals mainly biotite.
Turbulence–flame interactions in lean premixed hydrogen: transition to the distributed burning regime
Authors: ASPDEN A. J. , DAY M. S. , BELL J. B.
Published: May 2011

The response of lean (ϕ ≤ 0.4) premixed hydrogen flames to maintained homogeneous isotropic turbulence is investigated using detailed numerical simulation in an idealised three-dimensional configuration over a range of Karlovitz numbers from 10 to 1562. In particular, a focus is placed on turbulence sufficiently intense that the flames can no longer be considered to be in the thin reaction burning regime. This transition to the so-called distributed burning regime is characterised through a number of diagnostics, and the relative roles of molecular and turbulent mixing processes are examined. The phenomenology and statistics of these flames are contrasted with a distributed thermonuclear flame from a related astrophysical study.
Large-scale motions and inner/outer layer interactions in turbulent Couette–Poiseuille flows
Authors: PIROZZOLI SERGIO , BERNARDINI MATTEO , ORLANDI PAOLO
Published: May 2011

We investigate the organization of the momentum-carrying eddies in turbulent Couette–Poiseuille flows. The study relies on a direct numerical simulation (DNS) database covering a wide range of flow configurations from pure Couette to pure Poiseuille flows, at Reτ ≈ 250 (based on the flow properties at the stationary wall). The study highlights the occurrence of streaky patterns of alternating high and low momentum throughout the channel for all flow configurations, except near zeros of the mean shear, where streaks are suppressed. The mean streak spacing shows a relatively universal distribution in the core of the channel, where it ranges from 50 to 100 local viscous units. The validity of the local viscous scaling in collapsing flow features at different wall distances is confirmed by the analysis of the spanwise velocity spectra, which also highlights (in the case of Couette-like flows) the onset of a secondary low-wavenumber flow mode, superposed on the high-wavenumber flow mode that is responsible for the inner-layer dynamics. The effect of the former mode on the latter is studied by means of the two-point amplitude modulation coefficient, which brings to light a nonlinear modulation phenomenon. Physical mechanisms to explain the modulation effect are proposed, based on the interpretation of the conditional average events. Note that, although similar mechanisms have been previously observed in high-Reynolds-number turbulent boundary layers and channels, the modulation effect is here rather associated with the intrinsic large-scale dynamics of Couette-like flows, and takes place at DNS-accessible Reynolds numbers. We thus believe that the study of Couette-like flows may give an alternative avenue for probing inner/outer interaction effects than canonical channel flows.
The Provenance of RIB 1389 and the Rebuilding of Hadrian's Wall in AD 158
Authors: Hodgson Nick
Published: June 2011

RIB 1389 is an inscription, found in 1751, that records building work on Hadrian's Wall in ad 158. The stone is lost and there have long been doubts about its exact findspot. The source for the reading of the inscription and the discovery of the stone is a manuscript in the British Library. Re-examination of this shows that: 1. the inscription was found in the Newburn area (Wall Mile 8 or 9) and not near Heddon as is usually stated; 2. RIB 1389 certainly came from the curtain of Hadrian's Wall or one of its structures, and not from a fort; 3. there is a second contemporary illustration of the inscription which confirms that the previously published text is without doubt correct. The stone can be seen as part of a group of stones whose inscriptions indicate an extensive building operation. Given that it is now generally accepted that the Antonine Wall in Scotland was only held for a brief single period, the building programme of ad 158 can be seen as marking the decision to abandon Scotland and make a permanent return to the Wall on the southern isthmus.
Using a fingertip whole blood sample for rapid fatty acid measurement: method validation and correlation with erythrocyte polar lipid compositions in UK subjects
Authors: Gordon Bell J. , Mackinlay Elizabeth E. , Dick James R. , Younger Irene , Lands Bill , Gilhooly Thomas
Published: June 2011

It is well accepted thatn-3 long-chain PUFA intake is positively associated with a range of health benefits. However, while benefits have been clearly shown, especially for CVD, the mechanisms for prevention/benefit are less understood. Analysis of plasma and erythrocyte phospholipids (PL) have been used to measure the status of the highly unsaturated fatty acids (HUFA), especially EPA (20 : 5n-3) and DHA (22 : 6n-3), although the time and complexity of the process places limitations on the sample numbers analysed. An assay has been developed using whole blood, collected by finger prick, and stored on absorbant paper, subjected to direct methylation and fatty acids quantified by automated GC. Tests on fatty acid stability show that blood samples are stable when stored at − 20°C for 1 month although some loss of HUFA was seen at 4°C. A total of fifty-one patients, including twenty-seven who consumed no fatty acid supplements, provided a blood sample for analysis. Concentrations of all major fatty acids were measured in erythrocyte PL and whole blood. The major HUFA, including EPA, DHA and arachidonic acid (ARA; 20 : 4n-6), as well as the ARA:EPA ratio and the percentagen-3 HUFA/total HUFA all showed good correlations, between erythrocyte PL and whole blood. Values ofr2ranged from 0·48 for ARA to 0·95 for the percentage ofn-3 HUFA/total HUFA. This assay provides a non-invasive, rapid and reliable method of HUFA quantification with the percentage ofn-3 HUFA value providing a potential blood biomarker for large-scale nutritional trials.
Digestive physiological outcomes related to polydextrose and soluble maize fibre consumption by healthy adult men
Authors: Vester Boler Brittany M. , Rossoni Serao Mariana C. , Bauer Laura L. , Staeger Michael A. , Boileau Thomas W. , Swanson Kelly S. , Fahey George C.
Published: May 2011

The objective of the present study was to evaluate digestive physiological outcomes elicited by functional fibres fed to healthy adult men. A total of twenty-one healthy adult men were utilised in a cross-over design. Each subject received polydextrose (PDX) or soluble maize fibre (SCF) (21 g/d) or no supplemental fibre (no fibre control; NFC) in a snack bar. Periods were 21 d and faeces were collected during the last 5 d of each period. Food intake, including fibre intake, did not differ among treatments. Flatulence (P = 0·001) and distention (P = 0·07) were greatest when subjects consumed PDX or SCF. Reflux was greater (P = 0·04) when subjects consumed SCF compared with NFC. All tolerance scores were low ( < 2·5), indicating only slight discomfort. Faecal ammonia, 4-methylphenol, indole and branched-chain fatty acid concentrations were decreased (P < 0·01) when subjects consumed the functional fibre sources compared with NFC. Faecal acetate, propionate and butyrate concentrations were lower (P < 0·05) when subjects consumed PDX compared with SCF and NFC. Faecal pH was lower (P = 0·01) when subjects consumed SCF compared with NFC, while PDX was intermediate. Faecal wet weight was greatest (P = 0·03) when subjects consumed SCF compared with NFC. Faecal dry weight tended to be greater (P = 0·07) when subjects consumed PDX compared with NFC. The functional fibres led to 1·4 and 0·9 g (PDX and SCF, respectively) increases in faecal dry mass per g supplemental fibre intake.Bifidobacteriumspp. concentrations were greater (P < 0·05) when subjects consumed SCF compared with NFC. These functional fibres appear to be beneficial to gut health while leading to minimal gastrointestinal upset.
IPOs versus Acquisitions and the Valuation Premium Puzzle: A Theory of Exit Choice by Entrepreneurs and Venture Capitalists
Authors: Bayar Onur , Chemmanur Thomas J.
Published: June 2011

We analyze a private firm’s choice of exit mechanism between initial public offerings (IPOs) and acquisitions, and we provide a resolution to the “IPO valuation premium puzzle.” The private firm is run by an entrepreneur and a venture capitalist (VC) (insiders) who desire to exit partially from the firm. A crucial factor driving their exit choice is competition in the product market: While a stand-alone firm has to fend for itself after going public, an acquirer is able to provide considerable support to the firm in product market competition. A second factor is the difference in information asymmetry characterizing the two exit mechanisms. Finally, the private benefits of control accruing to the entrepreneur post-exit and the bargaining power of outside investors versus firm insiders are also different across the two mechanisms. We analyze two situations: the first, where the entrepreneur can make the exit choice alone (independent of the VC), and the second, where the entrepreneur can make the exit choice only with the concurrence of the VC. We derive a number of testable implications regarding insiders’ exit choice between IPOs and acquisitions and about the IPO valuation premium puzzle.
Nasogastric tube insertion in difficult cases with the aid of a flexible nasendoscope
Authors: Der Kureghian J , Kumar S , Jani P
Published: May 2011

Objective:

Nasogastric tube insertion is often difficult, due to a variety of reasons, e.g. skewed laryngeal anatomy. We present a previously unreported method of facilitating nasogastric tube insertion, using a flexible nasendoscope.

Method:

The nasogastric tube is anchored to a flexible nasendoscope using sodium alginate dressing ties. The nasendoscope is then passed into the upper oesophagus, along with the nasogastric tube. Once the nasogastric tube has passed the cricopharyngeus, gentle traction on the nasendoscope releases it from the nasogastric tube. The nasendoscope can then be withdrawn. A previous safety study of sodium alginate ingestion showed no adverse effects.

Conclusion:

This method enables nasogastric tube insertion under direct vision, and allows the tube to be guided past the larynx and into the upper oesophagus.
Molecular and morphological data place Blarneya in Tylophoron (Arthoniaceae)
Authors: ERTZ Damien , BUNGARTZ Frank , DIEDERICH Paul , TIBELL Leif
Published: May 2011

Based on morphological, anatomical, chemical, ecological and molecular evidence, Blarneya is synonymized here with Tylophoron. The molecular phylogeny derived from sequences obtained from sporodochia of Blarneya places this genus, described to accommodate an anamorphic lichen with white cushion-shaped sporodochia, within Tylophoron. This conclusion is further supported by the discovery of Tylophoron-type ascomata emerging directly from thalli with Blarneya-type sporodochia and producing identical hyaline conidia. In one specimen pycnidia were also observed. This represents a surprising variety of morphologically different conidiomata. A different anamorphic type was previously reported from Tylophoron, and this is confirmed here by molecular analysis for T. moderatum: besides thalli with ascomata this species has anamorphic thalli with an irregularly delimited brown sporodochial felt and brown conidia. Ascomata are not known from these entirely anamorphic thalli, whereas they do occur infrequently in Tylophoron species with Blarneya-type sporodochia. A key to all currently accepted species of Tylophoron is provided. In addition to the corticolous Tylophoron hibernicum, confined to humid forests, two saxicolous species with Blarneya-type sporodochia are described here as new: T. galapagoense, known only from Galapagos, differs from T. hibernicum by a thicker, more compact, beige rather than white, more strongly C+ red thallus, growing below sheltered rock overhangs in dry forests; T. stalactiticum has a C− thallus with stipitate, white, C+ red sporodochia; the species is known only from a single locality in Tenerife, on a large slope with volcanic boulders.
Familial clustering of suicide risk: a total population study of 11.4 million individuals
Authors: Tidemalm D. , Runeson B. , Waern M. , Frisell T. , Carlström E. , Lichtenstein P. , Långström N.
Published: June 2011

Background

Research suggests that suicidal behaviour is aggregated in families. However, due to methodological limitations, including small sample sizes, the strength and pattern of this aggregation remains uncertain.

Method

We examined the familial clustering of completed suicide in a Swedish total population sample. We linked the Cause of Death and Multi-Generation Registers and compared suicide rates among relatives of all 83 951 suicide decedents from 1952–2003 with those among relatives of population controls.

Results

Patterns of familial aggregation of suicide among relatives to suicide decedents suggested genetic influences on suicide risk; the risk among full siblings (odds ratio 3.1, 95% confidence interval 2.8–3.5, 50% genetic similarity) was higher than that for maternal half-siblings (1.7, 1.1–2.7, 25% genetic similarity), despite similar environmental exposure. Further, monozygotic twins (100% genetic similarity) had a higher risk than dizygotic twins (50% genetic similarity) and cousins (12.5% genetic similarity) had higher suicide risk than controls. Shared (familial) environmental influences were also indicated; siblings to suicide decedents had a higher risk than offspring (both 50% genetically identical but siblings having a more shared environment, 3.1, 2.8–3.5v. 2.0, 1.9–2.2), and maternal half-siblings had a higher risk than paternal half-siblings (both 50% genetically identical but the former with a more shared environment). Although comparisons of twins and half-siblings had overlapping confidence intervals, they were supported by sensitivity analyses, also including suicide attempts.

Conclusions

Familial clustering of suicide is primarily influenced by genetic and also shared environmental factors. The family history of suicide should be considered when assessing suicide risk in clinical settings or designing and administering preventive interventions.
Word frequency modulates morpheme-based reading in poor and skilled Italian readers
Authors: MARCOLINI STEFANIA , TRAFICANTE DANIELA , ZOCCOLOTTI PIERLUIGI , BURANI CRISTINA
Published: June 2011

A previous study reported that, similar to young and adult skilled readers, Italian developmental dyslexics read pseudowords made up of a root and a derivational suffix faster and more accurately than simple pseudowords. Unlike skilled readers, only dyslexic and reading-matched younger children benefited from morphological structure in reading words aloud. In this study, we show that word frequency affects the probability of morpheme-based reading, interacting with reading ability. Young skilled readers named low- but not high-frequency morphologically complex words faster than simple words. By contrast, the advantage for morphologically complex words was present in poor readers irrespective of word frequency. Adult readers showed no facilitating effect of morphological structure. These results indicate that young readers use reading units (morphemes) that are larger than the single-grapheme grain size. It is argued that morpheme-based reading is important for obtaining reading fluency (rather than accuracy) in transparent orthographies and is useful particularly in children with limited reading ability who do not fully master whole-word processing.
Morphological awareness and word reading in English language learners: Evidence from Spanish- and Chinese-speaking children
Authors: RAMIREZ GLORIA , CHEN XI , GEVA ESTHER , LUO YANG
Published: June 2011

This study examined the effects of first language characteristics on the development of two aspects of English morphological awareness: derivational and compound awareness in English language learners (ELLs) with Chinese or Spanish as their first language. It also assessed the contribution of derivational and compound awareness to word reading in the two groups of ELLs as well as in monolingual English-speaking children. Participants included 89 Spanish-speaking ELLs, 77 Chinese-speaking ELLs, and 78 monolingual English-speaking children from Grade 4 and Grade 7. Results showed that Chinese-speaking ELLs performed similarly to monolingual English speakers on English compound awareness, and monolingual English speakers outperformed Spanish-speaking ELLs. Spanish-speaking ELLs and monolingual children, in contrast, both outperformed Chinese-speaking ELLs on derivational awareness. Another key finding was that in all three groups of children, morphological awareness made a unique contribution to word reading after controlling for nonverbal ability, maternal education, and other reading related variables. These results underscore the influence of first language structure on the development of second language morphological awareness, and the similar contribution of morphological awareness to word reading across monolinguals and ELLs.
Stem and derivational-suffix processing during reading by French second and third graders
Authors: COLÉ PASCALE , BOUTON SOPHIE , LEUWERS CHRISTEL , CASALIS SEVERINE , SPRENGER-CHAROLLES LILIANE
Published: June 2011

Morphological processing by French children was investigated in two experiments. The first showed that second and third graders read pseudowords such as chat-ure (cat-ish) composed of an illegally combined real stem and real derivational suffix faster and more accurately than they read matched pseudowords composed of a pseudostem and a real derivational suffix (e.g., chot-ure) or a pseudostem and a pseudosuffix (e.g., chot-ore). More, the chot-ure items were read faster and more accurately than the chot-ore items. These results suggest that beginning French readers are able to use morphological units (both stems and derivational suffixes) to decode new words. The second experiment compared the impact of display format on reading time. Suffixed words were presented in four segmentation formats: syllabic (ma lade), morphological (mal ade), morphological + 1 grapheme (mala de), or unsegmented (malade). For both groups of readers, the morphological + 1 condition generated the longest reading times but there was no difference between the other three conditions. It was concluded that syllables, morphemes, and whole word forms contribute to a similar extent to word reading for low-frequency words. Morphological processing may therefore be used early by French children to identify both new words and low-frequency words.
PARAMETER ESTIMATION IN NONLINEAR AR–GARCH MODELS
Authors: Meitz Mika , Saikkonen Pentti
Published: May 2011

This paper develops an asymptotic estimation theory for nonlinear autoregressive models with conditionally heteroskedastic errors. We consider a general nonlinear autoregression of orderp(AR(p)) with the conditional variance specified as a general nonlinear first-order generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity (GARCH(1,1)) model. We do not require the rescaled errors to be independent, but instead only to form a stationary and ergodic martingale difference sequence. Strong consistency and asymptotic normality of the global Gaussian quasi-maximum likelihood (QML) estimator are established under conditions comparable to those recently used in the corresponding linear case. To the best of our knowledge, this paper provides the first results on consistency and asymptotic normality of the QML estimator in nonlinear autoregressive models with GARCH errors.
The impact of Cyclone Fanele on sifaka body condition and reproduction in the tropical dry forest of western Madagascar
Authors: Lewis R. J. , Rakotondranaivo F.
Published: May 2011

Cyclones have been suggested to play a major role in the evolutionary history of the flora and fauna of Madagascar (Wright 1999). In spite of the proposed significance of cyclonic activity, very little is known about the specific effects of cyclones on Malagasy ecosystems (Birkinshaw & Randrianjanahary 2007). Understanding the effects of these severe natural disturbances requires comparing data collected both before and after the event. Because cyclones are stochastic, researching the influence of cyclones on Madagascar's biodiversity is difficult and opportunities to study their impact on forests are rare. Nevertheless, studies of the impact of cyclones on Malagasy biota are imperative because models of global climate patterns predict that large-scale tropical disturbances will increase in frequency and intensity in the future (Metcalfe et al. 2008).
Below-ground secondary succession in tropical forests of Borneo
Authors: Brearley Francis Q.
Published: May 2011

As the destruction and severe disturbance of primary tropical forest continues, it is important to understand how these forests may recover from perturbations. Considerable work has been done on above-ground recovery but below-ground processes are less well understood. To determine changes in root mass during tropical secondary succession in lowland forests of Central Borneo, samples were taken from stands of increasing ages since abandonment of agriculture (1, 3, 14 and 31 y) with a primary forest control (six plots from 1-y-old stands and three from all other ages). Root mass and elemental concentrations were determined and soils were chemically analysed. There was no increase in root mass with stand age for fine-root (< 2 mm diameter) or small-root (< 5 mm diameter) mass but there was a trend for coarse-root mass (5–10 mm diameter) to increase with stand age. Negative correlations were shown between root mass and soil nutrient status. Fine-root C concentrations increased with stand age but there was no clear effect of stand age on fine-root N or P. Fine-root mass did not increase significantly with stand age suggesting a rapid recovery; instead, soil nutrient status appeared to be the most important factor controlling root mass. Of the soil nutrients measured in this study, N had a stronger control over root mass than P suggesting that this element may be limiting during secondary succession in tropical lowland forests of Borneo.
ADAM SMITH’S ESSENTIALS: ON TRUST, FAITH, AND FREE MARKETS
Authors: EVENSKY JERRY
Published: May 2011

When trust is shaken, individuals pull back and the market system contracts. Where trust grows, individual energy and creativity are unleashed and the system grows. In Adam Smith’s vision of humankind’s progress, trust is the central theme.

The Great Recession represents a classic case of a crisis of trust. Looking back to the work of Smith offers insight into the role of citizens and the State in creating an fruitful market environment based on trust, and the challenge of this process, given the human frailty of individuals (unfortunately, we are not angels) and the potential for State power to be captured and abused.
Script Generation of Activities of Daily Living in HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorders
Authors: Cobb Scott J. , Woods Steven Paul , Vigil Ofilio , Heaton Robert K. , Grant Igor , Ellis Ronald J. , Marcotte Thomas D. ,   the HIV Neurobehavioral Research Programs (HNRP) Group
Published: June 2011

Script generation describes one's ability to produce complex, sequential action plans derived from mental representations of everyday activities. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection on script generation performance. Sixty HIV+ individuals (48% of whom had HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders [HAND]) and 26 demographically comparable HIV- participants were administered a novel, standardized test of script generation, which required participants to verbally generate and organize the necessary steps for completing six daily activities. HAND participants evidenced significantly more total errors, intrusions, and script boundary errors compared to the HIV- sample, indicating difficulties inhibiting irrelevant actions and staying within the prescribed boundaries of scripts, but had adequate knowledge of the relevant actions required for each script. These findings are generally consistent with the executive dysfunction and slowing common in HAND and suggest that script generation may play a role in everyday functioning problems in HIV. (JINS, 2011, 17, 740–745)
Can Community-Based Interventions on Aspirations Raise Young People's Attainment?
Authors: Lupton Ruth , Kintrea Keith
Published: June 2011

Against the background of the ‘Inspiring Communities’ programme to raise ‘community-level’ educational aspirations in England, this article considers whether the existing evidence about place and aspirations suggests that it will be beneficial.

We address three questions: Do neighbourhoods have an influence on educational attainment? Are ‘community level’ aspirations a mechanism by which neighbourhoods affect individual aspirations? Is there evidence that aspirations are lower in poor neighbourhoods?

The article suggests that the available evidence does not lead to firm conclusions; a key problem is that few studies have measured aspirations at a neighbourhood level. It suggests that limited spending on a pilot is a reasonable response. However, aspirations are shaped by a wide range of other influences. This suggests that any interventions on ‘community’ aspirations’ should be conjoined with other programmes to support schools and to address inequalities between neighbourhoods.
Changing Responsibilities and Roles of the Voluntary and Community Sector in the Welfare Mix: A Review
Authors: Hogg Eddy , Baines Susan
Published: June 2011

Many Western states have sought in recent years to harness the energies of voluntary agencies and charitable bodies in the provision of welfare (Brandsen and Pestoff, 2006; Milligan and Conradson, 2006; Haugh and Kitson, 2007). More than ever is expected of the Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS) in supporting people and communities, entering into partnerships with governments, and delivering public services (Lewis, 2005; Macmillan, 2010). The mainstreaming of the VCS has been associated with a push towards market reform and reducing state obligations for welfare provision (Amin, 2009). In some European states – for example, Germany and the Netherlands – a three-way mix of state, market and voluntary sector dates back to the nineteenth century (Brandsen and Pestoff, 2006). In the UK too, on which this review article focuses, the delivery of public services by voluntary organisations and charities is far from new, but over the past decade local government and health services, especially in England, have been required to step up their engagement with VCS organisations (VCSOs) (Alcock, 2009; Di Domencioet al., 2009; Macmillan, 2010). Commitment to this sector by the government under New Labour was signalled by the creation for England of the Office of the Third Sector within the Cabinet Office in 2006 and the associated appointment of the first dedicated Minister of the Third Sector, initially Ed Miliband MP. Working with charities, social enterprises and community and faith-based organisations appeals to politicians across the mainstream British political spectrum (Di Domencioet al., 2009; Alcock, 2010); the ‘Big Society’ agenda of the Coalition government elected in 2010 promises a continuation in this direction of travel, albeit in a new regime of reduced budgets, service cuts and demands of more for less.
Re-Mixing Digital Economies in the Voluntary Community Sector? Governing Identity Information and Information Sharing in the Mixed Economy of Care for Children and Young People*
Authors: Wilson Rob , Martin Mike , Walsh Sarah , Richter Paul
Published: June 2011

This article critically examines the governance of identity in the context of children's social care. There is a widespread assumption in government policy and technical practice that information can be integrated across organisations and sectors. This article questions these assertions using a case study (‘Mary's story’). It draws on a range of insights from the philosophy of Charles Pierce, information systems practice and social theory. This provides a platform to explore the governance of identity information for VCS organisations, service providers, and user(s). The logics of the governance of identity information in current and future service co-ordination and delivery are examined.
Antioxidant content in guava (Psidium guajava) and araçá (Psidiumspp.) germplasm from different Brazilian regions
Authors: Corrêa Luiz Claudio , Santos Carlos Antonio F. , Vianello Fabio , Lima Giuseppina Pace P.
Published: May 2011

Guava (Psidium guajava) and araçá (Psidiumspp.) plants are important for the Brazilian economy, as their fruit is both accepted by the consumers, and makes a beneficial contribution to the human diet thanks to their content in vitamin C, carotenoids and phenolic compounds. Here, we report the content in the fruit of free ascorbic acid, lycopene, β-carotene, flavonoids and phenolic compounds, and the total antioxidant activity present in a collection of guava and araçá accessions curated at the Embrapa Semiarido germplasm bank. Guava fruits with a red-coloured pulp flesh contained a significant amount of carotenoids, especially lycopene, and a high concentration of phenolic compounds. These compounds were largely responsible for the antioxidant activity of the araçá accessions. Among the guava accessions, phenolic compounds were also responsible for the antioxidant activity. High levels of free ascorbic acid were present in most accessions. In both guava and araçá, there is substantial potential to develop cultivars with a good level of consumer acceptability.
Analysis of GEO spacecraft anomalies: Space weather relationships
Authors: Choi Ho‐Sung , Lee Jaejin , Cho Kyung‐Suk , Kwak Young‐Sil , Cho Il‐Hyun , Park Young‐Deuk , Kim Yeon‐Han , Baker Daniel N. , Reeves Geoffrey D. , Lee Dong‐Kyu
Published: June 2011

While numerous anomalies and failures of spacecraft have been reported since the beginning of the space age, space weather effects on modern spacecraft systems have been emphasized more and more with the increase of their complexity and capability. However, the relationship between space weather and commercial satellite anomalies has not been studied extensively. In this paper, we investigate the geostationary Earth orbit (GEO) satellite anomalies archived by Satellite News Digest during 1997–2009 in order to search for possible influences of space weather on the anomaly occurrences. We analyze spacecraft anomalies for the Kp index, local time, and season and then compare them with the tendencies of charged particles observed by Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) satellites. We obtain the following results: (1) there are good relationships between geomagnetic activity (as measured by the Kp index) and anomaly occurrences of the GEO satellites; (2) the satellite anomalies occurred mainly in the midnight to morning sector; and (3) the anomalies are found more frequently in spring and fall than summer and winter. While we cannot fully explain how space weather is involved in producing such anomalies, our analysis of LANL data shows that low‐energy (<100 keV) electrons have similar behaviors with spacecraft anomalies and implies the spacecraft charging might dominantly contribute to the GEO spacecraft anomalies reported in Satellite News Digest.