bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Basis set convergence of molecular correlation energy differences within the random phase approximation
Authors: Eshuis Henk , Furche Filipp
Published: February 2012

The basis set convergence of energy differences obtained from the random phase approximation (RPA) to the correlation energy is investigated for a wide range of molecular interactions. For dispersion bound systems the basis set incompleteness error is most pronounced, as shown for the S22 benchmark [P. Jurecka et al., Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys. 8, 1985 (2006)10.1039/b600027d]. The use of very large basis sets (> quintuple-zeta) or extrapolation to the complete basis set (CBS) limit is necessary to obtain a reliable estimate of the binding energy for these systems. Counterpoise corrected results converge to the same CBS limit, but counterpoise correction without extrapolation is insufficient. Core-valence correlations do not play a significant role. For medium- and short-range correlation, quadruple-zeta results are essentially converged, as demonstrated for relative alkane conformer energies, reaction energies dominated by intramolecular dispersion, isomerization energies, and reaction energies of small organic molecules. Except for weakly bound systems, diffuse augmentation almost universally slows down basis set convergence. For most RPA applications, quadruple-zeta valence basis sets offer a good balance between accuracy and efficiency.
Silicon layer intercalation of centimeter-scale, epitaxially grown monolayer graphene on Ru(0001)
Authors: Mao Jinhai , Huang Li , Pan Yi , Gao Min , He Junfeng , Zhou Haitao , Guo Haiming , Tian Yuan , Zou Qiang , Zhang Lizhi , Zhang Haigang , Wang Yeliang , Du Shixuan , Zhou Xingjiang , Castro Neto A. H. , Gao Hong-Jun
Published: February 2012

We develop a strategy for graphene growth on Ru(0001) followed by silicon-layer intercalation that not only weakens the interaction of graphene with the metal substrate but also retains its superlative properties. This G/Si/Ru architecture, produced by silicon-layer intercalation approach (SIA), was characterized by scanning tunneling microscopy/spectroscopy and angle resolved electron photoemission spectroscopy. These experiments show high structural and electronic qualities of this new composite. The SIA allows for an atomic control of the distance between the graphene and the metal substrate that can be used as a top gate. Our results show potential for the next generation of graphene-based materials with tailored properties.
Atomic simulations of effect of grain size on deformation behavior of nano-polycrystal magnesium
Authors: Song H. Y. , Li Y. L.
Published: February 2012

The effect of grain size and temperature on the mechanical behavior of nano-polycrystal magnesium under tensile load is investigated using molecular dynamics simulation. The results indicate that the average flow stress of nano-polycrystal magnesium decreases with decreasing grain size, exhibiting a breakdown in the Hall-Petch relation when grain size is smaller than a critical size. The results also show that crack formation during tension is a cause of reduced flow stress of nano-polycrystal magnesium with a large grain size and that the Young’s modulus of nano-polycrystal magnesium increases with increasing grain size. Furthermore, we find that the deformation behavior of nano-polycrystal magnesium obviously depends on temperatures.
Collision of nonlinear pulses in traveling-wave field effect transistors loaded with Schottky varactors
Authors: Narahara Koichi
Published: February 2012

We numerically investigated the collision of nonlinear pulses in a traveling-wave field effect transistor (TWFET) with the drain line periodically loaded with Schottky varactors. Owing to the coupling between the gate and drain lines, two propagation modes develop on a TWFET, called the c- and π-modes. Through numerical evaluations, we found that small c-mode pulses can be generated by colliding two π-mode pulses traveling in opposite directions. Moreover, the incident π-mode pulse can be either amplified or attenuated because of the collision, depending on the balance in the amplitude of the pulses traveling in opposite directions. By utilizing these unique properties of TWFETs, we can manage short pulse streams, including the generation, multiplication of the repetition rate, and retiming.
Polarization engineered 1-dimensional electron gas arrays
Authors: Nath Digbijoy N. , Park Pil Sung , Esposto Michele , Brown David , Keller Stacia , Mishra Umesh K. , Rajan Siddharth
Published: February 2012

One-dimensional electron gas based devices are of great interest due to their promise in high-performance electronics and future device applications. However, synthesis and patterning of arrays of nanowires is a challenge in all material systems. Here we demonstrate a novel system based on vicinal AlGaN/GaN heterostructures that enables direct electrostatic tuning of the dimensionality of electrons from 1 D to 2 D. Our approach, based on polarization engineering, enables top-down fabrication of dense arrays of pure 1-dimensional electron channels with carrier confinement equivalent to 90 meV, that are capable of carrying technologically relevant current densities up to 130 mA/mm. A direction-dependent small-signal capacitance-voltage profiling to probe the Fermi occupation function of electron gas was used to demonstrate distinct signatures of 1-dimensional density of states and transport in these structures at room temperature. The system discussed here is based on polarization-induced anisotropic charge in vicinal AlGaN/GaN heterostructures. We developed a 2-sub-band model consisting of 1-D and 2-D sub-bands to describe the behavior of these wires. We find excellent agreement between our model and experimental data, confirming the channels are indeed 1-dimensional. Our demonstration of 1-dimensional electron channel arrays in this system could enable optical, electronic and magnetic devices with added functionalities and performance.
A dimension scale-invariant probabilistic model based on Leibniz-like pyramids
Authors: Rodríguez A. , Tsallis C.
Published: February 2012

We introduce a family of dimension scale-invariant Leibniz-like pyramids and (d + 1)-dimensional hyperpyramids (d = 1, 2, 3, …), with d = 1 corresponding to triangles, d = 2 to (tetrahedral) pyramids, and so on. For all values of d, they are characterized by a parameter ν > 0, whose value determines the degree of correlation between N (d + 1)-valued random variables (d = 1 corresponds to binary variables, d = 2 to ternary variables, and so on). There are (d + 1)N different events, and the limit ν → ∞ corresponds to independent random variables, in which case each event has a probability 1/(d + 1)N to occur. The sums of these N  (d + 1)-valued random variables correspond to a d-dimensional probabilistic model and generalize a recently proposed one-dimensional (d = 1) model having q −Gaussians (with q = (ν − 2)/(ν − 1) for ν ∈ [1, ∞)) as N → ∞ limit probability distributions for the sum of the N binary variables [A. Rodríguez, V. Schwammle, and C. Tsallis, J. Stat. Mech.: Theory Exp. 2008, P09006; R. Hanel, S. Thurner, and C. Tsallis, Eur. Phys. J. B 72, 263 (2009)]. In the ν → ∞ limit the d-dimensional multinomial distribution is recovered for the sums, which approach a d-dimensional Gaussian distribution for N → ∞. For any ν, the conditional distributions of the d-dimensional model are shown to yield the corresponding joint distribution of the (d−1)-dimensional model with the same ν. For the d = 2 case, we study the joint probability distribution and identify two classes of marginal distributions, one of them being asymmetric and dimension scale-invariant, while the other one is symmetric and only asymptotically dimension scale-invariant. The present probabilistic model is proposed as a testing ground for a deeper understanding of the necessary and sufficient conditions for having q-Gaussian attractors in the N → ∞ limit, the ultimate goal being a neat mathematical view of the causes clarifying the ubiquitous emergence of q-statistics verified in many natural, artificial, and social systems.
Soft-phonon mode observation in Li2Ge4O9 phase above room temperature
Authors: Takahashi Yoshihiro , Kunitomo Jun , Nakamura Kensaku , Osada Minoru , Fujiwara Takumi
Published: February 2012

Li2Ge4O9 is known to be a ferroelectric phase with Curie temperature at Tc ∼ −93 °C. In this study, we found both the lowest-frequency phonon and heat-capacity anomalies around 100 °C in the Li2Ge4O9 phase, demonstrating their presence in the structural phase-transition. The phase transition is probably triggered by regularization of distorted GeO6 octahedra in the paraelectric phase, resulting in another phase consisting of the regular octahedral GeO6 unit, which was supported by in situ measurement of emission of 2E → 4A2 transition in the Mn4+-doped phase. It is deduced that the phase transition is more dynamic than ferroelectric phase-transition originating in ordering of the Li ions.
Note: Frequency-conversion photonic Doppler velocimetry with an inverted circulator
Authors: Dolan D. H. , Ao T. , Hernandez O.
Published: February 2012

Photonic Doppler velocimetry (PDV) is a fiber-based interferometer used in dynamic compression research. Conventional PDV systems are simple to construct but do not perform well in all measurement conditions, while universal PDV systems that support many different configurations are complex and expensive. A simpler approach is the use of external, inverted circulators which can be added and removed in a modular fashion. This technique permits frequency-conversion measurements with a conventional PDV system. Using a correction to remove baseline effects, frequency conversion systems can resolve low velocity transients that conventional PDV cannot.
The effect of teacher‐led interventions on social and emotional behaviour in primary school children: a systematic review
Authors: Whear R. , Thompson‐Coon J. , Boddy K. , Ford T. , Racey D. , Stein K.
Published: February 2012

The purpose of this article is to clarify the role of teacher training initiatives aimed at improving social, emotional and behavioural outcomes of primary school aged children through improved classroom management. Systematic searches were conducted using a range of electronic databases from inception up to September 2011. Included studies were controlled trials that described training provided to teachers in classroom management techniques designed to improve primary school children's behavioural and social outcomes. Study selection and appraisal of quality were carried out by two researchers and a narrative synthesis was carried out. A total of 14 studies were included involving 8 interventions. Results show that statistically significant effects are limited, with only 20 outcomes showing significant effects in the desired direction. Effect sizes ranged from g = −0.17 (95%CI: −0.32, −0.02) to g = 1.88 (95%CI: 0.55, 3.21). Overall, the programmes indicate an improvement in some outcomes of interest. However, further research into the implementation and comparative effectiveness of such programmes is needed before implications for educational policy and practice can be established.
Molecular and biophysical basis of glutamate and trace metal modulation of voltage-gated Cav2.3 calcium channels
Authors: Shcheglovitov Aleksandr , Vitko Iuliia , Lazarenko Roman M. , Orestes Peihan , Todorovic Slobodan M. , Perez-Reyes Edward
Published: February 2012

Here, we describe a new mechanism by which glutamate (Glu) and trace metals reciprocally modulate activity of the Cav2.3 channel by profoundly shifting its voltage-dependent gating. We show that zinc and copper, at physiologically relevant concentrations, occupy an extracellular binding site on the surface of Cav2.3 and hold the threshold for activation of these channels in a depolarized voltage range. Abolishing this binding by chelation or the substitution of key amino acid residues in IS1–IS2 (H111) and IS2–IS3 (H179 and H183) loops potentiates Cav2.3 by shifting the voltage dependence of activation toward more negative membrane potentials. We demonstrate that copper regulates the voltage dependence of Cav2.3 by affecting gating charge movements. Thus, in the presence of copper, gating charges transition into the “ON” position slower, delaying activation and reducing the voltage sensitivity of the channel. Overall, our results suggest a new mechanism by which Glu and trace metals transiently modulate voltage-dependent gating of Cav2.3, potentially affecting synaptic transmission and plasticity in the brain.
A conserved two‐component regulatory system, PidS/PidR, globally regulates pigmentation and virulence‐related phenotypes of Burkholderia glumae
Authors: KARKI HARI SHARAN , BARPHAGHA INDERJIT KAUR , HAM JONG HYUN
Published: February 2012

Burkholderia glumae is a rice pathogenic bacterium that causes bacterial panicle blight. Some strains of this pathogen produce dark brown pigments when grown on casamino‐acid peptone glucose (CPG) agar medium. A pigment‐positive and highly virulent strain of B. glumae, 411gr‐6, was randomly mutagenized with mini‐Tn5gus, and the resulting mini‐Tn5gus derivatives showing altered pigmentation phenotypes were screened on CPG agar plates to identify the genetic elements governing the pigmentation of B. glumae. In this study, a novel two‐component regulatory system (TCRS) composed of the PidS sensor histidine kinase and the PidR response regulator was identified as an essential regulatory factor for pigmentation. Notably, the PidS/PidR TCRS was also required for the elicitation of the hypersensitive response on tobacco leaves, indicating the dependence of the hypersensitive response and pathogenicity (Hrp) type III secretion system of B. glumae on this regulatory factor. In addition, B. glumae mutants defective in the PidS/PidR TCRS showed less production of the phytotoxin, toxoflavin, and less virulence on rice panicles and onion bulbs relative to the parental strain, 411gr‐6. The presence of highly homologous PidS and PidR orthologues in other Burkholderia species suggests that PidS/PidR‐family TCRSs may exert the same or similar functions in different Burkholderia species, including both plant and animal pathogens.
Identification and comparison of microRNAs from skeletal muscle and adipose tissues from two porcine breeds
Authors: Li Hong‐Yi , Xi Qian‐Yun , Xiong Yuan‐Yan , Liu Xiao‐Long , Cheng Xiao , Shu Gang , Wang Song‐Bo , Wang Li‐Na , Gao Ping , Zhu Xiao‐Tong , Jiang Qing‐Yan , Yuan Li , Zhang Yong‐Liang
Published: February 2012

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are an abundant class of small regulatory RNAs that negatively regulate gene expression at the post‐transcriptional level. Although an increasing number of porcine miRNAs recently have been identified, research has yet to identify the full repertoire of miRNAs in pig skeletal and adipose tissues and their differences between breeds. We extracted small RNA from skeletal muscle and adipose tissues of Landrace and Lantang pigs, and the expression of a total of 184 known porcine miRNAs (113 from Solexa sequencing and 171 from miRNA chip hybridization) as well as 521 novel miRNA candidates was detected. Moreover, 20 miRNAs were selected randomly from the 184 miRNAs and analysed by quantitative real‐time PCR to confirm the aforementioned results. In the skeletal muscle tissues, 21 miRNAs were up‐regulated in Lantang and another 33 were highly expressed in Landrace pigs. In the adipose tissues, 25 miRNAs were down‐regulated in Lantang and another 23 were lowly expressed in Landrace pigs. miRNA divergence between tissues was also detected in this study. Ten miRNAs were highly expressed in the skeletal muscle tissue in comparison with adipose tissue, and another 10 miRNAs exhibited the opposite expression profile. To investigate the regulatory mechanism of the miRNAs in muscle and adipose tissues, the 10 miRNAs with the most divergent expression profiles were functionally categorized using the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes database. Most of the miRNAs strongly corresponded to myogenesis and adipogenesis processes. In addition, 84 of the 521 miRNA candidates were potentially porcine‐specific miRNAs. This study adds new valuable information to comparative miRNA profiles of skeletal muscle and adipose tissues in porcine species. The great diversity of miRNA composition and expression levels both between breeds and between tissues suggests that a complex regulatory network exists in porcine subcutaneous fat development.
Conservation genetics and management of yellowtail snapper, Ocyurus chrysurus, in the US Caribbean and South Florida
Authors: SAILLANT E. A. , RENSHAW M. A. , CUMMINGS N. J. , GOLD J. R.
Published: February 2012

Abstract  Population‐genetic structure and average long‐term effective size of yellowtail snapper, Ocyurus chrysurus (Bloch), sampled offshore from the Florida Keys and four localities in the US Caribbean, were investigated using nuclear‐encoded microsatellites and a fragment of the mitochondrially encoded ND‐4 gene. Analysis of spatial genetic variation revealed occurrence of up to four groupings (stocks) of yellowtail snapper: one in the Florida Keys, one along the west coast of Puerto Rico, one that includes the east coast of Puerto Rico and St. Thomas and one offshore of St. Croix. The observed genetic differences among localities are not strong, and additional sampling to examine whether the observed patterns of population structure are temporally stable is warranted. Levels of genetic variability and estimates of average, long‐term effective size (Ne) indicate that yellowtail snapper at all five localities have, at present, sufficient genetic variation to maintain long‐term integrity and sustainability.
Range‐edge genetic diversity: locally poor extant southern patches maintain a regionally diverse hotspot in the seagrass Zostera marina
Authors: DIEKMANN ONNO E. , SERRÃO ESTER A.
Published: February 2012

Refugial populations at the rear edge are predicted to contain higher genetic diversity than those resulting from expansion, such as in post‐glacial recolonizations. However, peripheral populations are also predicted to have decreased diversity compared to the centre of a species’ distribution. We aim to test these predictions by comparing genetic diversity in populations at the limits of distribution of the seagrass Zostera marina, with populations in the species’ previously described central diversity ‘hotspot’. Zostera marina populations show decreased allelic richness, heterozygosity and genotypic richness in both the ‘rear’ edge and the ‘leading’ edge compared to the diversity ‘hotspot’ in the North Sea/Baltic region. However, when populations are pooled, genetic diversity at the southern range is as high as in the North Sea/Baltic region while the ‘leading edge’ remains low in genetic diversity. The decreased genetic diversity in these southern Iberian populations compared to more central populations is possibly the effect of drift because of small effective population size, as a result of reduced habitat, low sexual reproduction and low gene flow. However, when considering the whole southern edge of distribution rather than per population, diversity is as high as in the central ‘hotspot’ in the North Sea/Baltic region. We conclude that diversity patterns assessed per population can mask the real regional richness that is typical of rear edge populations, which have played a key role in the species biogeographical history and as marginal diversity hotspots have very high conservation value.
Ecological drift and local exposures drive enteric bacterial community differences within species of Galápagos iguanas
Authors: LANKAU EMILY W. , HONG PEI‐YING , MACKIE RODERICK I.
Published: February 2012

Diet strongly influences the intestinal microbial communities through species sorting. Alternatively, these communicates may differ because of chance variation in local microbial exposures or species losses among allopatric host populations (i.e. ecological drift). We investigated how these forces shape enteric communities of Galápagos marine and land iguanas. Geographically proximate populations shared more similar communities within a host ecotype, suggesting a role for ecological drift during host colonization of the islands. Additionally, evidence of taxa sharing between proximate heterospecific host populations suggests that contemporary local exposures also influence the gut community assembly. While selective forces such as host‐bacterial interactions or dietary differences are dominant drivers of intestinal community differences among hosts, historical and contemporary processes of ecological drift may lead to differences in bacterial composition within a host species. Whether such differences in community structure translate into geographic variation in benefits derived from these intimate microbial communities remains to be explored.
Current and future techniques in the evaluation of dysphagia
Authors: Kuo Paul , Holloway Richard H , Nguyen Nam Q
Published: February 2012

Dysphagia is common in the general population, and is generally due to either mechanical obstruction or dysmotility. Patient demographics and symptom evaluation are often useful in determining the likely cause, and guide subsequent investigation and management. Oropharyngeal dysphagia is usually caused by neurological conditions where treatment options are limited. Conversely, many of the esophageal causes of dysphagia are amenable to therapy. Gastroscopy is often the first test of choice, given its diagnostic and therapeutic potential, especially when mechanical causes are concerned. Esophageal motor function can be assessed by a variety of techniques, ranging from radiology such as barium swallow, to dedicated motility tests such as manometry and impedance monitoring. The choice of test relies on the clinical indication and the results should be interpreted in conjunction with the patients' symptoms. High‐resolution manometry with topography is now the new benchmark for motility studies. Several new techniques for motility testing have also become available, such as esophageal ultrasound and functional lumen imaging probe, but are currently limited to the research setting.
Putting the brakes on a cycle: bottom‐up effects damp cycle amplitude
Authors: Bell James R. , Burkness Eric C. , Milne Alice E. , Onstad David W. , Abrahamson Mark , Hamilton Krista L. , Hutchison William D.
Published: February 2012

Ecology Letters (2012) 15: 310–318

Pest population density oscillations have a profound effect on agroecosystem functioning, particularly when pests cycle with epidemic persistence. Here, we ask whether landscape‐level manipulations can be used to restrict the cycle amplitude of the European corn borer moth [Ostrinia nubilalis (Hübner)], an economically important maize pest. We analysed time series from Minnesota (1963–2009) and Wisconsin (1964–2009) to quantify the extent of regime change in the US Corn Belt where rates of transgenic Bt maize adoption varied. The introduction of Bt maize explained cycle damping when the adoption of the crop was high (Minnesota); oscillations were damped but continued to persist when Bt maize was used less intensely (Wisconsin). We conclude that host plant quality is key to understanding both epidemic persistence and the success of intervention strategies. In particular, the dichotomy in maize management between states is thought to limit the spatial autocorrelation of O. nubilalis.
GENDER EARNINGS DIFFERENCES IN CHINA: BASE PAY, PERFORMANCE PAY, AND TOTAL PAY
Authors: XIU LIN , GUNDERSON MORLEY
Published: February 2012

We utilize a data set that has not been used in literature—the Life Histories and Social Change in Contemporary China (LHSCCC)—to provide new evidence on male‐female pay differences in China. The data set not only enables us to control for a wide range of pay‐determining characteristics but also is the first to enable an analysis of the different components of pay (e.g., base pay and performance pay) as well as for total pay. We find: (1) Women receive about three‐quarters of male pay for each of the dimensions of base pay, performance pay, and total pay, before adjusting for the effect of different pay‐determining factors; (2) Approximately two‐thirds of the gap reflect the fact that females tend to be paid less than males for the same wage‐determining characteristics (often labeled as discrimination), while about one‐third reflects the fact that males have endowments or characteristics that tend to be associated with higher pay, especially supervisory responsibilities, general labor market experience, occupational skills, education, and membership in the Communist party; (3) Marriage has a large positive effect on the earnings of women in China (and none for men), but childcare responsibilities for children under the age of 6 have a large negative effect on the earnings of women although these are offset almost completely if an elder family member is present, highlighting that childcare responsibilities disproportionately fall on women unless an elder family member is present; (4) Pay premiums for higher level skills and higher supervisory ranks are remarkably small for both males and especially females; (5) With respect to the unexplained or “discriminatory” portion of the gap, females get a huge pay penalty for simply being female, but a substantial portion of this gets offset by the higher pay premium they receive for such factors as Han ethnicity, being married, and education. This suggests that discrimination tends to occur in the form of a pay penalty for simply being female and not from lower returns to the same endowments of pay‐determining characteristics. (JEL J3, J7, M5)
EFFECTIVENESS OF STATE POLLUTION PREVENTION PROGRAMS AND POLICIES
Authors: RAMIREZ HARRINGTON DONNA
Published: February 2012

States are using regulatory‐, information‐, and management‐based policies to encourage the adoption of pollution prevention (P2) and reduce pollution. Using a sample of facilities of S&P 500 firms which report to the Toxic Releases Inventory from 1991 to 2001, this study employs dynamic panel data models to examine the effectiveness of state legislations and policies in increasing P2 and reducing toxic releases. I find that toxic waste legislations are effective in reducing toxic releases and in promoting P2, but the effect of policy instruments differ. Facilities in states with reporting requirement and mandatory planning adopt more P2 even in states that do not emphasize toxic waste reduction. The effectiveness of reporting is stronger among facilities with good environmental performance, while the potency of mandatory planning is greater among facilities with past P2 experience. In contrast, numerical goals reduce toxic pollution levels only among those which have been subjected to high levels of enforcement action. These suggest that reporting requirement and mandatory planning may be promoting the P2 practices which can improve public image and which benefit from enhanced technical know‐how, but they are not causing meaningful pollution reductions, implying that the existing policies must be complemented by other approaches to achieve higher reductions in toxic pollution levels. (JEL Q55, O38, H23)
Screening: mapping medicine’s temporal spaces
Authors: Armstrong David
Published: February 2012

This paper examines the history of population screening through an analysis of contemporary medical journals. The term was first used in the modern sense in the inter‐war years to describe the school health examination which sought to identify the early signs of disease and abnormality, a strategy which was extended to new recruits during the Second World War. After the war, screening began to target those illnesses in the civilian population which had a clear temporal trajectory, especially ‘chronic’ illnesses. Since the 1980s, enthusiasm for population screening has declined within the medical community: opportunistic screening has seemed more appropriate for diseases with multifactorial aetiology, and those programmes which have survived have been increasingly challenged through an expanding analysis of their potential harms. In identifying the early precursors of clinical disease in apparently normal populations, however, screening heralded the emergence of a new form of clinical practice concerned with the surveillance of ‘healthy’ patients within the context of new temporal spaces of illness.
Could muscle deformity in children with spastic cerebral palsy be related to an impairment of muscle growth and altered adaptation?
Authors: GOUGH MARTIN , SHORTLAND ADAM P
Published: February 2012

Skeletal muscle deformity is common in children with spastic cerebral palsy (CP), but the underlying mechanisms are unclear. This review explores some possible factors which may influence the development of muscle deformity in CP. Normal muscle function and growth appear to depend on the interaction of neuronal, endocrinal, nutritional, and mechanical factors, and also on the development of an appropriate balance between muscle protein synthesis and degradation, and between the development of contractile and non‐contractile components. In this context, the changes seen in muscle in children with CP are reviewed and discussed. It is suggested that the development of muscle deformity in children with CP may be related to a multifactorial impairment of muscle growth, on which adaptation of the extracellular matrix due to altered loading may be imposed.
Edema Associated with Long‐Term Valproate Therapy
Authors: Ettinger Alan , Moshe Solomon , Shinnar Shlomo
Published: February 2012

Summary Scattered reports of facial and limb edema have been reported, predominantly in the context of valproate (VPA)‐induced hepatic injury. We report seven Patients with edema associated with long‐term VPA therapy in the absence of hepatic disease.

Il existe quelques observations isolées d'oedème facial ou d'oedème des membres, avant tout dans un contexte d'hépatopathie induite par le valproate. Les auteurs rapportent 7 patients présentant un oedème sous traitement chronique par valproate, en l'absence de toute altération hépatique.

Se han publicado algunos informes de edema facial y de extremidades que aparecen predominantemente en el contexto de lesiones hepáticas inducidas por el Valproate. Publicamos 6 casos de pacientes con edema asociado a una terapia prolongada con valproate en ausencia de enfermedad hepática.

Vereinzelt wurde bisher über Gesichts‐ und Extremitäten‐Oedeme berichtet, vornehmlich im Zusammenhang mit Valproat induzierter Leberschädigung. Wir berichten über 7 Patienten mit Oedemen bei Langzeit‐Valproattherapie ohne Leberstörung.
Estimating emergence sequences of permanent teeth in Flemish schoolchildren using interval‐censored biplots: a graphical display of tooth emergence sequences
Authors: Cecere Silvia , Leroy Roos , Groenen Patrick J. F. , Lesaffre Emmanuel , Declerck Dominique
Published: February 2012

Cecere S, Leroy R, Groenen PJF, Lesaffre E, Declerck D. Estimating Emergence Sequences of Permanent Teeth in Flemish Schoolchildren using Interval‐Censored Biplots: a graphical display of tooth emergence sequences. Community Dent Oral Epidemiol 2012; 40 (Suppl. 1): 49–55. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Abstract – 
Objectives:  The aim of the present study was to investigate the pattern of emergence of permanent teeth using nonparametric techniques.

Materials and methods:  Data were obtained from the Signal‐Tandmobiel® project, a 6‐year prospective dental study conducted in Flanders (Belgium) in which 4468 primary school children born in 1989 were annually examined. A new exploratory method for interval‐censored data, the IC‐biplot, was applied to estimate individual sequences of emergence. In addition, the method renders a nice graphical representation of both children and teeth in the plane where the individual sequences of emergence can easily be visualized. On the basis of the estimated individual sequences, their corresponding prevalences were calculated.

Results:  The study revealed that between 7 and 13 different sequences of emergence can be expected depending on gender and quadrant. The prevalences of the most frequent sequences in girls varied from 35% to 85% depending on the quadrant, while in boys they varied from 28% to 32%. Most sequences in the maxilla start with 6‐1‐2 and in the mandible with 1‐6‐2.

Conclusions:  The IC‐biplot is a flexible procedure that allows an easy visualization of the pattern of emergence of permanent teeth. Rank orders derived from the IC‐biplot confirm rank orders suggested earlier in the literature.
Influence of smoking on interleukin‐1beta level, oxidant status and antioxidant status in gingival crevicular fluid from chronic periodontitis patients before and after periodontal treatment
Authors: Toker Hulya , Akpınar Aysun , Aydın Huseyin , Poyraz Omer
Published: February 2012

Toker H, Akpınar A, Aydın H, Poyraz O. Influence of smoking on interleukin‐1beta level, oxidant status and antioxidant status in gingival crevicular fluid from chronic periodontitis patients before and after periodontal treatment. J Periodont Res 2012; 47: 572–577. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Background and Objective:  The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of smoking on the relationship between interleukin‐1 (IL‐1β) and oxidation in patients with periodontitis and response to nonsurgical periodontal therapy.

Material and Methods:  Data were obtained from 30 patients with generalized chronic periodontitis (15 smokers and 15 nonsmokers) and from 10 periodontally healthy controls. IL‐1β level, total oxidant status (TOS) and total antioxidant status (TAS) were recorded in gingival crevicular fluid. Probing depth, clinical attachment level, gingival and plaque indices and bleeding on probing were also measured. The gingival crevicular fluid and clinical parameters were recorded at baseline and 6 wk after periodontal treatment.

Results:  The study showed statistically significant improvement of clinical parameters in both smokers and nonsmokers after periodontal treatment. Moreover, the baseline IL‐1β levels were significantly higher in smokers compared with nonsmokers (p < 0.05). After periodontal treatment, the IL‐1β levels were significantly reduced in both smokers and nonsmokers (p < 0.05). There were no significant differences in TOS and TAS between periodontitis patients and healthy controls at baseline and 6 wk after periodontal treatment. The level of IL‐1β in gingival crevicular fluid was positively correlated with TOS in both smokers and nonsmokers.

Conclusions:  Periodontal treatment improved the clinical parameters in both smokers and nonsmokers. The results confirm that periodontal therapy has an effect on IL‐1β levels in gingival crevicular fluid, but not on TOS and TAS.
Combined effect of anterior malocclusion and inadequate lip coverage on dental trauma in primary teeth
Authors: Bonini Gabriela C. , Bönecker Marcelo , Braga Mariana M. , Mendes Fausto M.
Published: February 2012

Abstract –  Objectives:  The main objective of this study was to investigate whether the interaction of malocclusion (open bite or increased overjet) combined with inadequate lip coverage strengthens its association with traumatic dental injury (TDI) in the primary teeth of preschool children compared to the presence of malocclusion alone.

Subjects and methods:  A cross‐sectional survey was conducted with 376 children aged 36–59 months who attended the National Day of Children’s Vaccination. Presence of TDI, tooth discoloration, and sinus tract were evaluated in the children. Variables associated with occlusion were also evaluated. A Poisson regression analysis was performed to verify the association between the explanatory variables and TDI as well as possible interactions among the variables. Then, the prevalence ratio was calculated.

Results:  The prevalence of TDI was 27.7%. The maxillary central incisor was the most affected tooth, without differences between the right and left sides. Boys had more dental trauma than girls (P = 0.04). The most common TDI was crown fracture restricted to the enamel (58.4%). Children with a combination of anterior open bite or increased overjet and inadequate lip coverage presented a higher prevalence of TDI than when the malocclusions were presented alone (P < 0.05). The same trends were observed when we included, in the final adjusted model, increased overjet instead of open bite.

Conclusions:  Anterior malocclusions of primary teeth such as increased overjet and anterior open bite are statistically significantly associated with dental trauma only when inadequate lip coverage is also present.
WHY EMPLOYEES DO BAD THINGS: MORAL DISENGAGEMENT AND UNETHICAL ORGANIZATIONAL BEHAVIOR
Authors: MOORE CELIA , DETERT JAMES R. , KLEBE TREVIÑO LINDA , BAKER VICKI L. , MAYER DAVID M.
Published: February 2012

We examine the influence of individuals’ propensity to morally disengage on a broad range of unethical organizational behaviors. First, we develop a parsimonious, adult‐oriented, valid, and reliable measure of an individual's propensity to morally disengage, and demonstrate the relationship between it and a number of theoretically relevant constructs in its nomological network. Then, in 4 additional studies spanning laboratory and field settings, we demonstrate the power of the propensity to moral disengage to predict multiple types of unethical organizational behavior. In these studies we demonstrate that the propensity to morally disengage predicts several outcomes (self‐reported unethical behavior, a decision to commit fraud, a self‐serving decision in the workplace, and supervisor‐ and coworker‐reported unethical work behaviors) beyond other established individual difference antecedents of unethical organizational behavior, as well as the most closely related extant measure of the construct. We conclude that scholars and practitioners seeking to understand a broad range of undesirable workplace behaviors can benefit from taking an individual's propensity to morally disengage into account. Implications for theory, research, and practice are discussed.
THE ROLE OF AFFECT AND LEADERSHIP DURING ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGE
Authors: SEO MYEONG‐GU , TAYLOR M. SUSAN , HILL N. SHARON , ZHANG XIAOMENG , TESLUK PAUL E. , LORINKOVA NATALIA M.
Published: February 2012

Based on multilevel data collected at 2 points in time, we examine the role of employees’ affective experiences in shaping their commitment and behavioral responses to both the initial (Time 1) and later (Time 2) phases of organizational change (12 months later). We also test the cross‐level effect of workgroup managers’ transformational leadership on their employees’ responses to change. We find strong support for predicted longitudinal relationships between employees’ affective experiences and their commitment and behavioral responses to change. In particular, employees’ positive and negative affect (NA) at Time 1 significantly predict both their commitment to change and the 3 dimensions (supportive, resistant, and creative) of behavioral responses at Time 2. Further, the effects of NA directly influence employee change commitment and behaviors at Time 2, whereas the long‐term effects of positive affect occur both directly and indirectly through commitment to change at Time 1. Finally, our results support the hypothesized role of workgroup managers’ transformational leadership in shaping employees’ affective reactions and commitment to change at the initial phase of change and thereby, their subsequent behavioral responses in the later phase. We discuss the implications for theory and practice in organizational change.
The “Production” of Corruption in China's Courts: Judicial Politics and Decision Making in a One-Party State
Authors: Li Ling
Published: February 2012

Despite its rampant presence, judicial corruption in China has often been regarded as the idiosyncratically deviant behavior of a few black sheep eluding prescribed judicial conduct. This entrenched assumption has both discouraged in-depth investigation of the phenomenon of judicial corruption and inhibited proper understanding of the functioning of China's courts. This article, based on an empirically grounded examination of the processing of court rulings tainted by corruption, showed that judicial corruption in China is an institutionalized activity systemically inherent in the particular decision-making mechanism guided by the Chinese Communist Party's instrumental rule-by-law ideal. In investigating what has contributed to the institutionalization of judicial corruption, the interplay between law and party politics in China's courts was also examined. The findings, therefore, also shed light on behind-the-courtroom judicial activities and on the enduring perplexity of the gap between the law in the book and the law in action.
Depressive Symptoms as a Predictor of Quality of Life in Cerebral Small Vessel Disease, Acting Independently of Disability; a Study in Both Sporadic Small Vessel Disease and Cadasil
Authors: Brookes Rebecca L. , Willis Thomas A. , Patel Bhavini , Morris Robin G. , Markus Hugh S.
Published: February 2012

Background

Cerebral small vessel disease causes lacunar stroke, and more recently has been implicated as a cause of depression. Factors causing reduced quality of life in small vessel disease, including the relative contributions of disability and depressive symptoms, remain uncertain.

Methods

One hundred patients with small vessel disease and 55 controls completed the Stroke-Specific Quality of Life scale. The protocol was repeated in 40 patients with the young-onset genetic form of small vessel disease, cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with sub-cortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy, and 35 controls. Disability, activities of daily living, cognition and depression were measured.

Results

Quality of life was significantly lower in small vessel disease versus controls: mean (standard deviation), 196·8 (35·2) vs. 226·8 (15·3), P < ·0001. Depressive symptoms were the major predictor of quality of life, explaining 52·9% of variance. The only other independent predictor was disability, explaining an additional 18·4%. A similar pattern was found in the young-onset genetic group, with reduced quality of life 202·0 (29·7) vs. controls 228·6 (13·1) P < ·0001, and depressive symptoms accounting for 42·2% of variance. Disability explained an additional 17·6%. Relationships between depression and quality of life, and disability and quality of life were independent of one another.

Conclusions

Depressive symptoms, often unrecognized, are a major determinant of reduced quality of life in small vessel disease. They account for greater reduction than, and are independent of, disability. This relationship may reflect the proposed causal association between white matter disease and depression. Treatment of depressive symptoms might significantly improve quality of life in small vessel disease.
Changes of serum biochemical parameters and liver pathology in 18 patients with 1,1,2,2‐tetrachloroethane‐induced hepatotoxicity
Authors: ZHENG Rui Dan , QU Ying , WU Wei Ping , MENG Jia Rong , CHEN Jie , XU Ming Yi , LU Lun Gen
Published: February 2012

OBJECTIVE:  To evaluate the changes of serum biochemical parameters and liver pathology in patients with 1,1,2,2‐tetrachloroethane (TTCE)‐induced hepatotoxicity.

METHODS:  A total of 18 patients were diagnosed as TTCE‐induced hepatotoxicity with an incubation period of 11–56 days. Blood samples were obtained from all patients and liver biopsy was performed in 16.

RESULTS:  All patients had fatigue, poor appetite and dark urine, 15 of whom suffered nausea, vomiting, abdominal distension and other gastrointestinal disorders. All patients had various degrees of liver function damage, and one died from liver failure. The prothrombin time was significantly prolonged in 6 patients. Histological findings showed varying degrees of necrosis, fatty degeneration and fibrosis in portal areas without cirrhosis. Patients with more severe jaundice had more severe pathologic changes, including piecemeal and bridge necrosis, and cholestasis.

CONCLUSIONS:  TTCE‐induced hepatotoxicity may cause the changes in serum biochemical parameters and liver pathology. Most patients might recover with regular treatment. Prevention and early diagnosis of TTCE‐induced hepatotoxicity are necessary.
An uncertainty index to measure the feasibility of Whole‐Life Cycle Costing approach in flood risk management
Authors: Viavattene C. , Faulkner H.
Published: February 2012

In the UK, increased use of non‐structural responses (NSRs) in integrated urban flood risk management has been recommended since the flood of autumn 2000. Paralleling this change, the UK government are now strongly promoting a Whole Life Cycle Costing approach (WLCC) to flood risk management economic appraisals. However, due to a relative lack of economic knowledge in relation to NSR, costing non‐structural responses is still in its infancy. Thus, the feasibility of the WLCC approach to costing non‐structural strategies has been brought into question. This paper describes a qualitative method to assess the feasibility of WLCC approach, i.e. a method designed to assess if enough expert‐based knowledge and/or economic data are available to support an effective, robust economic appraisal for a scheme that includes NSRs. This conceptual method allows flood risk managers to identify if, and when, further efforts are required in relation to obtaining better cost data to underpin a cost–benefit test. A user‐friendly interface has been developed to support decision makers faced with these new challenges. A schematic project has been presented in the text to illustrate the potential application of the method.
Insights into the effects of diclofenac and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents on ion channels
Authors: Gwanyanya Asfree , Macianskiene Regina , Mubagwa Kanigula
Published: February 2012

Objectives

Diclofenac and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely used in the treatment of inflammation and pain. Most effects of NSAIDs are attributed to the inhibition of cyclooxygenases (COX). However, many NSAIDs may have other effects not related to COX, including the modulation of various ion channels. The clinical implications of the effects on channels are not fully understood. This review outlines the effects of NSAIDs, with special attention to diclofenac, on ion channels and highlights the possible underlying mechanisms.

Key findings

NSAIDs have effects on channels such as inhibition, activation or changes in expression patterns. The channels affected include voltage-gated Na+, Ca2+, or K+ channels, ligand-gated K+ channels, transient receptor potential and other cation channels as well as chloride channels in several types of cells. The mechanisms of drug actions not related to COX inhibition may involve drug–channel interactions, interference with the generation of second messengers, changes in channel expression, or synergistic/antagonist interactions with other channel modulators.

The effects on ion channels may account for novel therapeutic actions of NSAIDs or for adverse effects. Among the NSAIDs, diclofenac may serve as a template for developing new channel modulators and as a tool for investigating the actions of other drugs.
HDR IMAGE RERENDERING USING GPU-BASED PROCESSING
Authors: LI PING , SUN HANQIU , SHEN JIANBING , HUANG CHEN
Published: February 2012

One essential process in image rerendering is to replace existing texture in the region of interest by other user-preferred textures, while preserving the shading and similar texture distortion. In this paper, we propose the graphics processing units (GPU)-accelerated high dynamic range (HDR) image rerendering using revisited NLM processing in parallel on GPU-CUDA platform, to reproduce the realistic rendering of HDR images with retexturing and transparent/translucent effects. Our image-based approach using GPU-based pipeline in gradient domain provides efficient processing with easy-control image retexturing and special shading effects. The experimental results showed the efficiency and high-quality performance of our approach.