bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isotope effects associated with the preparation and methylation of fatty acids by boron trifluoride in methanol for compound‐specific stable hydrogen isotope analysis via gas chromatography/thermal conversion/isotope ratio mass spectrometry
Authors: Chivall David , Berstan Robert , Bull Ian D. , Evershed Richard P.
Published: April 2012

RATIONALE

Compound‐specific stable hydrogen isotope analysis of fatty acids is being used increasingly as a means of deriving information from a diverse range of materials of archaeological, geological and environmental interest. Preparative steps required prior to isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS) analysis have the potential to alter determined δD values and hence must be accounted for if accurate δD values for target compounds are to be obtained.

METHODS

Myristic, palmitic, stearic, arachidic and behenic saturated fatty acids were derivatised to their respective fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs), using 14% (w/v) boron trifluoride in methanol then analysed by gas chromatography/thermal conversion/IRMS (GC/TC/IRMS). FAMEs generated from fatty acid sodium salts of unknown δD values were then used to test a correction factor determined for this method of derivatisation.

RESULTS

Derivatisation was found to alter the hydrogen isotopic composition of FAMEs although this effect was reproducible and can be accounted for. The difference between the mean corrected and mean bulk δD values was always less than 6.7 ‰. Extraction of saturated fatty acids and acyl lipids from samples, subsequent hydrolysis, then separation on a solid‐phase extraction cartridge, was found to alter the determined δD values by less than one standard deviation.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, it has been shown that for natural abundance hydrogen isotope determinations, the isolation and derivatisation of extracted fatty acids alters the determined δD values only by a numerical increment comparable with the experimental error. This supports the use of the described analytical protocol as an effective means of determining fatty acid δD values by GC/TC/IRMS. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Determination of isotopic labeling of proteins by precursor ion scanning liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry of derivatized amino acids applied to nuclear magnetic resonance studies
Authors: LeBlanc André , Arnold Alexandre A. , Genard Bertrand , Nadalini Jean‐Bruno , Heine Marc‐Olivier Séguin , Marcotte Isabelle , Tremblay Réjean , Sleno Lekha
Published: April 2012

RATIONALE

A method has been developed for the quantitation of isotopic labeling of proteins using liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS) for the application of protein nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) studies. NMR relies on specific isotopic nuclei, such as 13C and 15N, for detection and, therefore, isotopic labeling is an important sample preparation step prior to in‐depth structural characterization of proteins. The goal of this study was to develop a robust quantitative assay for assessing isotopic labeling in proteins while retaining information on the extent of labeling for individual amino acids.

METHODS

Complete digestion of proteins by acid hydrolysis was followed by derivatization of free amino acids with 6‐aminoquinolyl N‐hydroxysuccinimidyl carbamate (AQC) forming derivatives having identical MS/MS fragmentation behavior. Precursor ion scanning on a hybrid quadrupole‐linear ion trap platform was used for amino acid analysis and determining isotopic labeling of proteins.

RESULTS

Using a set of isotope‐labeled amino acid standards mixed with their unlabeled counterparts, the method was validated for accurately measuring % isotopic contribution. We then applied the method for determining the 13C isotopic content of algal proteins during a feeding study using 13C6‐glucose‐ or 13C‐bicarbonate‐supplemented culture media as well as the level of labeling in mussel byssal threads obtained after feeding with labeled algae.

CONCLUSIONS

This method is ideally suited for assessing the extent of protein labeling prior to NMR studies, where the isotopic labeling is a determining factor in the quality of resulting protein spectra, and can be applied to a multitude of different biological samples. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Surface‐activated chemical ionization–electrospray ionization source improves biomarker discovery with mass spectrometry
Authors: Sogno Ilaria , Conti Matteo , Consonni Paolo , Noonan Douglas M. , Albini Adriana
Published: April 2012

RATIONALE

Mass spectrometry (MS) is increasingly employed for the discovery of clinical biomarkers. However, due to sensitivity limitations related to in‐source ionization yield, many potential biomarkers are not detected by standard mass spectrometers. Therefore, more efficient ion‐source technologies are needed to improve MS applications in biomarker discovery.

METHODS

Among novel ion‐source technologies, Surface‐Activated Chemical Ionization (SACI), although endowed with high sensitivity linked to its ability to reduce chemical noise in mass spectra, has seen limited application in biomarker discovery to date, due to its selectivity for highly polar compounds. However, in combination with an Electrospray Ionization (ESI) source, SACI selectivity can be enlarged in the range of less polar compounds. To validate the new SACI‐ESI approach in biomarker discovery, we applied it to a translational setting in oncology. We performed MS profiles of 101 human serum samples from a male population, aged 40 or older, coming to the clinic for prostate cancer evaluation based on multiple PSA exams, digital rectal examination and echography. The SACI‐ESI MS spectra were analyzed and classified with an innovative bioinformatic approach based on the MS‐search freeware developed in house.

RESULTS

Here we demonstrate that the SACI‐ESI combination can produce MS spectra with greater sensitivity and lower noise than those obtained with the common ESI alone. We found that the SACI‐ESI combination increased the number of detectable compounds and produced better quality of profiles in liquid chromatography (LC) coupled with MS (LC/MS) analysis of human serum samples, improving disease prediction potential.

CONCLUSIONS

SACI‐ESI can facilitate MS‐based discovery of potential biomarkers in human serum. Combined with the proposed bioinformatic approach (based on XCMS and NIST data elaboration) for the analysis of the MS spectra obtained, the potential for developing biomarkers with diagnostic capabilities are demonstrated in a prostate cancer diagnosis clinical setting. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A new calibrant for matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight‐time‐of‐flight post‐source decay tandem mass spectrometry of non‐digested proteins for top‐down proteomic analysis
Authors: Fagerquist Clifton K. , Sultan Omar
Published: April 2012

RATIONALE

Matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) time‐of‐flight‐time‐of‐flight (TOF‐TOF) post‐source decay (PSD) tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) has seen increasing use for analysis of non‐digested protein ions for top‐down proteomic identification. However, there is no commonly accepted calibrant for this purpose beyond the use of peptide calibrants whose fragment ions span a lower mass‐to‐charge (m/z) range.

METHODS

We have used the PSD‐generated fragment ions of disulfide‐reduced/alkylated thioredoxin (AlkTrx) for TOF‐TOF calibration in reflectron mode for the purpose of PSD‐MS/MS analysis. The average m/z values of AlkTrx fragment ions were used for calibration. The quality of the calibration was assessed from the observed fragment ion mass error of MS/MS of the YahO protein from an unfractionated bacterial cell lysate of Escherichia coli O157:H7 as well as from MS/MS of bovine ubiquitin. The fragment ion mass errors of these two analytes were also used to assess instrument calibration using the monoisotopic fragment ions of [Glu1]‐fibrinopeptide B (GluFib).

RESULTS

A general improvement in fragment ion mass accuracy was observed using the AlkTrx calibration compared to the GluFib calibration which resulted in a more significant top‐down proteomic identification of these analyte proteins.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that AlkTrx may be useful as a calibrant for MALDI‐TOF‐TOF‐PSD‐MS/MS of small and modest‐sized protein ions. The uniform fragmentation efficiency of YahO across its sequence suggests that it may be useful as a post‐calibration standard to assess PSD‐MS/MS instrument performance as well as establishing appropriate top‐down proteomic fragment ion tolerances. Published 2012. This article is a US Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
A ultra‐pressure liquid chromatography/triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry method for the analysis of 13 eicosanoids in human urine and quantitative 24 hour values in healthy volunteers in a controlled constant diet
Authors: Medina S. , Domínguez‐Perles R. , Gil J. I. , Ferreres F. , García‐Viguera C. , Martínez‐Sanz J. M. , Gil‐Izquierdo A.
Published: April 2012

RATIONALE

Isoprostanes (IsoPs) are a series of prostaglandin (PG)‐like compounds formed non‐enzymatically through free‐radical‐induced peroxidation of arachidonic acid. They are considered as 'gold‐standard' biomarkers for oxidative stress, in general, and lipid peroxidation, in particular.

METHODS

A new qualitative and quantitative analytical method for the determination of 13 eicosanoids in human urine using solid‐phase extraction (SPE) and ultra‐pressure liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC/MS/MS) has been developed. The SPE was optimized by comparison of the extraction efficiency and recoveries of three distinct cartridges: Strata X‐AW, C18 Sep‐Pak, and Oasis HLB. The UPLC/MS/MS approach in the multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode was developed using negative electrospray ionization (ESI).

RESULTS

The validated method provides a high‐throughput assay with an adequate linearity from 0.16 to 330 ng mL–1. The limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) for each analyte showed low intervals (0.021–0.64 ng mL–1 and 0.042–1.28 ng mL–1, respectively). Urinary IsoPs were determined in 24 healthy volunteers and ranged from 685 to 3480 ng 24 h–1 and from 864 to 7511 ng 24 h–1 in urine from women and men, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

This analytical method could constitute a useful tool for the determination of oxidative stress biomarkers in clinical studies in which IsoPs may evidence early pathological conditions, as suggested by the determination of the baseline IsoPs content in human urine, since it improves upon the detection capacity of previously described methods. The quantity of IsoPs excreted in urine was higher than that found in previous reports due to the total hydrolysis of the conjugated forms. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cohesive software measurement planning framework using ISO standards: a case study from logistics service sector
Authors: Kurtel Kaan , Ozemre Murat
Published: April 2012

The objective of this paper is to present a cohesive measurement planning framework based on our successful practices during the implementation of a measurement process in a leading custom software development company in the logistics service sector in Turkey. The framework established is the result of the process of understanding how to plan software maintenance measurement that conforms to existing ISO/IEC standards, including ISO/IEC 9126, ISO/IEC 14598, and ISO/IEC 15939, and also combining the theoretical aspects of these standards with the realities of the software maintenance process in order to develop a software application. The main contributions of the article include the presentation of a practical solution in ISO‐based software measurement methodology and the elimination of the unnecessary and redundant ISO/IEC 9126 quality characteristics or sub‐characteristics for the purpose of application of quality model to the company, and identification of the suitable base and derived measurement sets for satisfying the company's information needs. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
School‐based prevention of bullying and relational aggression in adolescence: The fairplayer.manual
Authors: Scheithauer Herbert , Hess Markus , Schultze‐Krumbholz Anja , Bull Heike Dele
Published: April 2012

The fairplayer.manual is a school‐based program to prevent bullying. The program consists of fifteen to seventeen consecutive ninety‐minute lessons using cognitive‐behavioral methods, methods targeting group norms and group dynamics, and discussions on moral dilemmas. Following a two‐day training session, teachers, together with skilled fairplayer.teamers, implement fairplayer.manual in the classroom during regular school lessons. This chapter offers a summary of the program's conception and underlying prevention theory and summarizes the results from two evaluation studies. Standardized questionnaires showed a positive impact of the intervention program on several outcome variables.
ViSC Social Competence Program
Authors: Strohmeier Dagmar , Hoffmann Christine , Schiller Eva‐Maria , Stefanek Elisabeth , Spiel Christiane
Published: April 2012

The ViSC Social Competence Program has been implemented in Austrian schools within the scope of a national strategy plan, Together Against Violence. The program is a primary preventive program designed for grades 5 to 8. The prevention of aggression and bullying is defined as a school development task, and the initial implementation of the program lasts one school year. The program consists of universal and specific actions that are implemented through in‐school teacher training and a class project for students. The program was evaluated with a randomized intervention control group design. Data were collected from teachers and students. Results suggest that the program reduces aggression in schools.
New physics models of direct CP violation in charm decays
Authors: Altmannshofer Wolfgang , Primulando Reinard , Yu Chiu-Tien , Yu Felix
Published: April 2012

Abstract

In view of the recent LHCb measurement of ΔA
CP, the difference between the time-integrated CP asymmetries in D → K
+
K
− and D → π+π− decays, we perform a comparative study of the possible impact of New Physics degrees of freedom on the direct CP asymmetries in singly Cabibbo suppressed D meson decays. We systematically discuss scenarios with a minimal set of new degrees of freedom that have renormalizable couplings to the SM particles and that are heavy enough such that their effects on the D meson decays can be described by local operators. We take into account both constraints from low energy flavor observables, in particular D
0 −
$ {\overline D^0} $
mixing, and from direct searches. While models that explain the large measured value for ΔA
CP with chirally enhanced chromomagnetic penguins are least constrained, we identify a few viable models that contribute to the D meson decays at tree level or through loop induced QCD penguins. We emphasize that such models motivate direct searches at the LHC.
The radiation pattern of a QCD antenna in a dilute medium
Authors: Mehtar-Tani Yacine , Salgado Carlos A. , Tywoniuk Konrad
Published: April 2012

Abstract

Radiative interferences in the multi-parton shower is the building block of QCD jet physics in vacuum. The presence of a hot medium made of quarks and gluons is expected to alter this interference pattern. To study these effects, we derive the gluon emission spectrum off a color-correlated quark-antiquark pair (antenna) traversing a colored medium to first order in the medium density. The resulting induced gluon distribution is found to be governed by the hardest scale of the problem. In our setup, this can either be the inverse antenna transverse size,
$ r_{ \bot }^{{ - 1}} $
, or the scale related to the transverse color correlation length in the medium, which is given by the Debye mass m

D
. This emerging scale opens the angular phase space of emissions off the antenna compared to the vacuum case and gives rise to a typical transverse momentum of the medium-induced emitted gluons,
$ {\left\langle {k_{ \bot }^2} \right\rangle_{{med}}} $
~ max
$ \left( {r_{ \bot }^{{ - 1}},{m_D}} \right) $
. Above the hard scale interference effects suppress the spectrum resulting in the restoration of vacuum coherence.
Black hawk down?: Establishing helicopter parenting as a distinct construct from other forms of parental control during emerging adulthood
Authors: Padilla‐Walker Laura M. , Nelson Larry J.
Published: April 2012

The purpose of the current study was to establish a measure of helicopter parenting that was distinct from other forms of parental control, and to examine parental and behavioral correlates of helicopter parenting. Participants included 438 undergraduate students from four universities in the United States (Mage = 19.65, SD = 2.00, range = 18–29; 320 women, 118 men), and at least one of their parents. Analyses revealed that helicopter parenting loaded on a separate factor from both behavioral and psychological control, and that helicopter parenting was positively associated with behavioral and psychological control, but not at levels suggesting complete overlap. Results also revealed that helicopter parenting was positively associated with parental involvement and with other positive aspects of the parent–child relationship; but negatively associated with parental autonomy granting and school engagement. Discussion focuses on the implications of helicopter parenting for healthy development during emerging adulthood.
Identity and intimacy during adolescence: Connections among identity styles, romantic attachment and identity commitment
Authors: Kerpelman Jennifer L. , Pittman Joe F. , Saint‐Eloi Cadely Hans , Tuggle Felicia J. , Harrell‐Levy Marinda K. , Adler‐Baeder Francesca M.
Published: April 2012

Integration of adult attachment and psychosocial development theories suggests that adolescence is a time when capacities for romantic intimacy and identity formation are co‐evolving. The current study addressed direct, indirect and moderated associations among identity and romantic attachment constructs with a diverse sample of 2178 middle adolescents. Identity styles were found to have unique and direct associations with identity commitment. Attachment anxiety showed only indirect associations and attachment avoidance had both direct and indirect associations with identity commitment. Tests of moderation revealed that gender, race and relationship status had no influence on the direct associations of identity styles or romantic attachment with identity commitment. Few differences in association strength among identity styles and romantic attachment emerged for gender or race. However, the differences found for relationship status suggested that relationship experiences adolescents bring to their exploration of identity and intimacy matter for how these two areas of development articulate.
Galactinol synthase across evolutionary diverse taxa: Functional preference for higher plants?
Authors: Sengupta Sonali , Mukherjee Sritama , Parween Sabiha , Majumder Arun Lahiri
Published: April 2012

Galactinol synthase (GolS), a GT8 family glycosyltransferase, synthesizes galactinol and raffinose series of oligosaccharides (RFOs). Identification and analysis of conserved domains in GTs among evolutionarily diverse taxa, structure prediction by homology modeling and determination of substrate binding pocket followed by phylogenetic analysis of GolS sequences establish presence of functional GolS predominantly in higher plants, fungi having the closest possible ancestral sequences. Evolutionary preference for a functional GolS expression in higher plants might have arisen in response to the need for galactinol and RFO synthesis to combat abiotic stress, in contrast to other organisms lacking functional GolS for such functions.
Symmetry breaking cilia-driven flow in the zebrafish embryo
Authors: Smith Andrew A. , Johnson Thomas D. , Smith David J. , Blake John R.
Published: April 2012

Fluid mechanics plays a vital role in early vertebrate embryo development, an example being the establishment of left–right asymmetry. Following the dorsal–ventral and anterior–posterior axes, the left–right axis is the last to be established; in several species it has been shown that an important process involved with this is the production of a left–right asymmetric flow driven by ‘whirling’ cilia. It has previously been established in experimental and mathematical models of the mouse ventral node that the combination of a consistent rotational direction and posterior tilt creates left–right asymmetric flow. The zebrafish organizing structure, Kupffer’s vesicle, has a more complex internal arrangement of cilia than the mouse ventral node; experimental studies show that the flow exhibits an anticlockwise rotational motion when viewing the embryo from the dorsal roof, looking in the ventral direction. Reports of the arrangement and configuration of cilia suggest two possible mechanisms for the generation of this flow from existing axis information: (a) posterior tilt combined with increased cilia density on the dorsal roof; and (b) dorsal tilt of ‘equatorial’ cilia. We develop a mathematical model of symmetry breaking cilia-driven flow in Kupffer’s vesicle using the regularized Stokeslet boundary element method. Computations of the flow produced by tilted whirling cilia in an enclosed domain suggest that a possible mechanism capable of producing the flow field with qualitative and quantitative features closest to those observed experimentally is a combination of posteriorly tilted roof and floor cilia, and dorsally tilted equatorial cilia.
Relevant associations of the glucokinase regulatory protein/glucokinase gene variation with TAG concentrations in a high-cardiovascular risk population: modulation by the Mediterranean diet
Authors: Sotos-Prieto Mercedes , Guillén Marisa , Vicente Sorli Jose , Portolés Olga , Guillem-Saiz Patricia , Ignacio Gonzalez Jose , Qi Lu , Corella Dolores
Published: April 2012

The SNP rs1260326 (P446L) and rs1799884 ( − 30G>A) for the glucokinase regulatory protein (GCKR) and glucokinase (GCK) genes, respectively, have been associated with opposing effects on TAG and glucose concentrations. However, their genetic modulation by diet (dietary patterns or foods) remains to be investigated. We studied 945 high-cardiovascular risk subjects aged 67 (sd 6) years who participated in the PREvención con DIeta MEDiterránea-Valencia Study. Demographic, clinical, biochemical and genetic data were obtained. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD) and food intake were measured by validated questionnaires. Carriers of the L allele of GKCR had significantly higher TAG concentrations (PP: 1·34 (sd 0·05) mmol/l v. PL+LL: 1·54 (sd 0·03) mmol/l; P= 0·014) and LL carriers had lower glucose concentrations (PL+PP: 6·85 (sd 0·08) mmol/l v. LL: 6·40 (sd 0·16) mmol/l; P= 0·032) after multivariate adjustment. Conversely, homozygous subjects for the variant allele (A) in the GCK gene had significantly lower TAG (GG+GA: 1·48 (sd 0·03) mmol/l v. AA: 1·17 (sd 0·18) mmol/l; P= 0·033) and a higher risk of diabetes (OR 3·3, 95 % CI 1·2, 9·2). Combined effects for both SNP increased TAG concentrations by 37 % (P= 0·033). Adherence to the MD modulated the effects of GCKR polymorphism on TAG: subjects with genetic risk had lower TAG (L-allele carriers; PP: 1·48 (sd 0·14) mmol/l v. PL+LL: 1·51 (sd 0·08) mmol/l; P= 0·917) compared with those with a higher adherence. Analysis of the joint effects of the GCKR and individual food items identified significant associations (olive oil (P= 0·035), vegetables (P= 0·012), red meat (P= 0·017), butter (P= 0·039), sweetened carbonated beverages (P= 0·036) and nuts (P= 0·038)). In conclusion, we found that rs1260326 (GCKR) is significantly associated with higher TAG concentrations, but is modulated by adherence to the MD.
Maslinic acid inhibits the metastatic capacity of DU145 human prostate cancer cells: possible mediation via hypoxia-inducible factor-1α signalling
Authors: Park So Young , Nho Chu Won , Kwon Dae Young , Kang Young-Hee , Lee Ki Won , Park Jung Han Yoon
Published: April 2012

Maslinic acid is found in various natural sources, most notably in pomace olive oil, and exerts pro-apoptotic activities in various cancer cells in vitro. In the present study, DU145 human prostate cancer cells were cultured with 0–25 μm-maslinic acid to examine the effects of maslinic acid on the metastatic capacity of prostate cancer cells. Maslinic acid significantly (P <0·05) inhibited the basal and epidermal growth factor (EGF)-induced migration (27–64 %), invasion (23–60 %) and adhesion (8–40 %) of DU145 cells. Maslinic acid significantly (P <0·05) down-regulated both basal and EGF-stimulated secretion of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 (25–67 %), MMP-2 (50–86 %), urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA, about 100 %), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF, 98–100 %) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMP)-1, as well as expression of uPA receptor (uPAR), intercellular adhesion molecules (22–33 %), vascular cell adhesion molecules (23–46 %) and E-cadherin, whereas it increased TIMP-2 secretion. Maslinic acid dramatically reduced the levels of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) protein and mRNA; the reduction was accompanied by reduced stability, nuclear levels and transcriptional activity of HIF-1α. The levels of phospho-Akt and phospho-extracellular signal-related kinase (ERK) were reduced in cells treated with maslinic acid, and the phosphoinositide 3-kinase inhibitor LY294002 and the mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase inhibitor PD98059 reduced HIF-1α levels and VEGF secretion. The results show that maslinic acid markedly inhibited the migration, invasion and adhesion of DU145 prostate cancer cells. Suppressing HIF-1α activation by inhibiting Akt and ERK activation may be part of the mechanism by which maslinic acid inhibited uPAR, E-cadherin, VEGF and MMP expression in DU145 cells.
Influence of progressive fluid restriction on mood and physiological markers of dehydration in women
Authors: Pross Nathalie , Demazières Agnès , Girard Nicolas , Barnouin Romain , Santoro Francine , Chevillotte Emmanuel , Klein Alexis , Le Bellego Laurent
Published: April 2012

The present study evaluated, using a well-controlled dehydration protocol, the effects of 24 h fluid deprivation (FD) on selected mood and physiological parameters. In the present cross-over study, twenty healthy women (age 25 (se 0·78) years) participated in two randomised sessions: FD-induced dehydration v. a fully hydrated control condition. In the FD period, the last water intake was between 18.00 and 19.00 hours and no beverages were allowed until 18.00 hours on the next day (23–24 h). Water intake was only permitted at fixed periods during the control condition. Physiological parameters in the urine, blood and saliva (osmolality) as well as mood and sensations (headache and thirst) were compared across the experimental conditions. Safety was monitored throughout the study. The FD protocol was effective as indicated by a significant reduction in urine output. No clinical abnormalities of biological parameters or vital signs were observed, although heart rate was increased by FD. Increased urine specific gravity, darker urine colour and increased thirst were early markers of dehydration. Interestingly, dehydration also induced a significant increase in saliva osmolality at the end of the 24 h FD period but plasma osmolality remained unchanged. The significant effects of FD on mood included decreased alertness and increased sleepiness, fatigue and confusion. The most consistent effects of mild dehydration on mood are on sleep/wake parameters. Urine specific gravity appears to be the best physiological measure of hydration status in subjects with a normal level of activity; saliva osmolality is another reliable and non-invasive method for assessing hydration status.
Evaluation of three grass growth models to predict grass growth in Ireland
Authors: HURTADO-URIA C. , HENNESSY D. , SHALLOO L. , SCHULTE R. P. O. , DELABY L. , O'CONNOR D.
Published: April 2012

Grass growth in temperate regions is highly seasonal and difficult to predict. A model that can predict grass growth from week to week would offer a valuable management and budgeting tool for grassland farmers. Many grass growth models have been developed, varying from simple empirical to complex mechanistic models. Three published grass growth models developed for perennial ryegrass swards in temperate climates were selected for evaluation: Johnson & Thornley (1983) (J&T model), Jouvenet al.(2006) (J model) and Breretonet al.(1996) (B model). The models were evaluated using meteorological data and grass growth data from Teagasc Moorepark as a framework for further refinement for Irish conditions. The accuracy of prediction by the models was assessed using root mean square error (RMSE) and mean square prediction error (MSPE). The J&T model over-predicted grass growth in all 5 years examined and predicted a high primary grass growth peak, while the J and B models predicted grass growth closer to that measured. Overall, the J model had the smallest RMSE in 3 of the 5 years and the B model in 2 of the 5 years. In spring (February–April), the B model had the lowest RMSE and MSPE. In mid-season (April–August), the B model had the closest prediction to measured data (lowest RMSE), while in autumn (August–October) the J model had the closest prediction. The models with the greatest potential for grass growth prediction in Ireland, albeit with some modifications, are the J model and the B model.
Domination and Dereliction: Exploring the State's Roles in Burma
Authors: Leider Jacques P.
Published: April 2012

What these four quite different books broadly share is a focus on the role of the state in Myanmar society. Current scholarship describes the authoritarian state in Myanmar, which has been controlled by the army since 1962, as either dominantly present or neglectfully absent. Censorship and the repression of autonomous spaces in society, on the one hand, and the failure of the state to enforce efficient health and environmental policies, on the other, are keywords in these works that illustrate the double-faced appearance of the state's existence and role in society.
EXPLORING KNOWLEDGE AND HEALTH-SEEKING BEHAVIOUR RELATED TO SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS AMONG THE TRIBAL POPULATION OF MADHYA PRADESH, CENTRAL INDIA
Authors: RAO V. G. , SAHA K. B. , BHAT J. , TIWARY B. K. , ABBAD A.
Published: April 2012

This community-based cross-sectional study was carried out in the tribal population of randomly selected villages of Jabalpur district, Madhya Pradesh, central India. A total of 200 married men and women aged 15–49 years were interviewed to explore their knowledge, experience and health-seeking behaviour related to sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Though 91% of respondents were aware of STIs, the sexual route was mentioned by only 19% as the route of transmission. Around 18% reported a need for social isolation from persons with STIs. Though 88% of the respondents felt modern medicine was the best remedy for STIs, only a few of them used medical treatment while suffering from an STI. Twenty-seven per cent of respondents resorted to traditional healers, and 30% utilized home remedies for STI treatment. The study highlights a need for generating STI awareness amongst the tribal population of the region through a needs-based behaviour change communication (BCC) strategy.
e-Surveillance in Animal Health: use and evaluation of mobile tools
Authors: MADDER M. , WALKER J. G. , VAN ROOYEN J. , KNOBEL D. , VANDAMME E. , BERKVENS D. , VANWAMBEKE S. O. , DE CLERCQ E. M.
Published: April 2012

In the last decade, mobile technology offered new opportunities and challenges in animal health surveillance. It began with the use of basic mobile phones and short message service (SMS) for disease reporting, and the development of smartphones and other mobile tools has expanded the possibilities for data collection. These tools assist in the collection of data as well as geo-referenced mapping of diseases, and mapping, visualization and identification of vectors such as ticks. In this article we share our findings about new technologies in the domain of animal health surveillance, based on several projects using a wide range of mobile tools, each with their specific applicability and limitations. For each of the tools used, a comprehensive overview is given about its applicability, limitations, technical requirements, cost and also the perception of the users.The evaluation of the tools clearly shows the importance of selecting the appropriate tool depending on the envisaged data to be collected. Accessibility, visualization and cost related to data collection differ significantly among the tools tested. This paper can thus be seen as a practical guide to the currently available tools.
COST-UTILITY ANALYSIS OF ADJUVANT THERAPIES FOR BREAST CANCER IN IRAN
Authors: Bastani Peivand , Kiadaliri Aliasghar Ahmad
Published: April 2012

Objectives:The aim of this study was to evaluate the cost-utility of Docetaxel with doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide (TAC) and 5-fluorouracil, doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide (FAC) in node-positive breast cancer patients in the south of Iran.

Methods:A double blind study was done on a cohort of 100 patients suffering from breast cancer with node-positive over 8 months in the radiotherapy center of Namazi hospital, Shiraz-Iran. Health-related quality of life was assessed using questionnaire (QLQ-C30) from European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC). QLQ-C30 scale scores were mapped to 15D and EuroQol 5D utilities to measure the quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs).Third party payer point of view was applied to measure and value the cost of treatments. Cost data were extracted from hospital and health insurance organizations. Robustness of the results was checked through a two way sensitivity analysis.

Results:TAC was associated with higher deterioration in HRQoL during treatment and higher improvements over 4 months follow-up. On average, the cost of treatment per patient in TAC was 15 times higher than FAC (p< .001). In overall, TAC was resulted in lower QALYs and higher cost over study period.

Conclusions:FAC was a dominant option versus TAC in short-term. The higher improvement in HRQoL over follow-up in TAC may not compensate the more intensive deterioration caused during treatment in short-term. The short time horizon of study may limit the generalizability of our findings and, hence, there is a need to conduct long-term economic evaluation studies whenever data is available to inform decision making.
KrF Pulsed Laser Ablation of Thin Films Made from Fluorinated Heterocyclic Poly(Naphthyl-Imide)s
Authors: Damaceanu Mariana-Dana , Rusu Radu-Dan , Olaru Mihaela Adriana , Timpu Daniel , Bruma Maria
Published: April 2012

Among the many aspects of laser ablation, development of conical structures induced by excimer laser radiation on polyimide surfaces has been thoroughly investigated. Because the mechanisms that produce these surface textures are not fully understood, two theories, photochemical bond breaking and thermal reaction, have been introduced. Here we present the first study of ultraviolet laser ablation behavior of thin films made from fluorinated poly(naphthyl-imide)s containing oxadiazole rings and the investigation of the mechanism of cone-like structure formation at two laser fluences, 57 and 240 mJ/cm2. The morphology of thin films before and after laser ablation was studied by using various spectroscopy techniques such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, time-resolved emission and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, and contact angle measurements. All of the data suggest impurities shielded at low fluence radiation (57 mJ/cm2) and a radiation hardening process at high value fluence (240 mJ/cm2), which are proposed as the main mechanisms for laser ablation of our polyimide films, and we bring evidence to support them.
Stocker performance and production in mixed tall fescue–bermudagrass pastures of the Southern Piedmont USA
Authors: Franzluebbers Alan J. , Stuedemann John A. , Seman Dwight H.
Published: April 2012

Stocker performance and production from mixed cool- and warm-season perennial pastures are important determinants of agricultural sustainability that can be influenced by management. We evaluated the factorial combination of three sources of nutrient application (inorganic only, organic+inorganic combination, and organic only) and two forage utilization regimes [low grazing pressure (LGP) and high grazing pressure (HGP)] on steer stocking density and rate, performance and production during 7 years of pasture management {tall fescue [Lolium arundinaceum (Schreb.) Darbysh.] overseeded into existing Coastal bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.] sod} on a Typic Kanhapludult in Georgia, USA. Nutrient source had few major impacts on responses, except for lower animal performance with organic fertilization (broiler litter) than with organic+inorganic and inorganic only fertilization, especially with LGP. Seasonal changes in stocking weight and rate occurred, not only as expected due to environmental conditions and dominant forage species present, but that also counteracted expected differences imposed by grazing pressure; signaling negative feedback of HGP on forage productivity. Steer performance was greatest in spring and summer under both grazing pressures, but was significantly reduced with increasing grazing pressure in the autumn and winter due to low forage availability. Across years, steer gainha−1 (863kgha−1) was not different between grazing pressures, but gainha−1 declined with time under HGP and was stable with time under LGP. Reducing grazing pressure to a moderate level can lead to equivalent steer production as HGP, and would likely contribute to a more sustainable balance among production, socio-economic and environmental goals. These multi-year results will help cattle producers in warm, moist climates design and implement more sustainable grazing systems.
On the formation of tilted flux ropes in the Earth's magnetotail observed with ARTEMIS
Authors: Kiehas S. A. , Angelopoulos V. , Runov A. , Moldwin M. B. , Möstl C.
Published: April 2012

On 21 October 2010, ARTEMIS spacecraft P2, located at about −57 in the Earth's magnetotail, observed a series of flux ropes during the course of a moderate substorm. Subsequently, ARTEMIS spacecraft P1, located about 20 RE farther downtail and farther into the lobe than P2, observed a series of TCRs, consistent with the flux ropes observed by P2. The dual‐spacecraft configuration allows simultaneous examination of these phenomena, which are interpreted as an O‐line, followed by a series of flux ropes/TCRs. An inter‐spacecraft time of flight analysis, assuming tailward propagation of cross‐tail aligned ropes, suggests propagation speeds of up to ∼2000 km/s. A principal axis investigation, however, indicates that the flux ropes were tilted between 41° and 45° in the GSM x‐y‐plane with respect to the noon‐midnight meridional plane. Taking this into account, the tailward propagation speed of the different flux ropes is determined to be between 900 and 1400 km/s. The same timing analysis also reveals that the flux rope velocity increased progressively from one flux rope to the next. A clear correlation between the magnetic field and plasma flow components inside the flux ropes was observed. As possible mechanisms leading to the formation of tilted flux ropes we suggest (a) a progressive spreading of the reconnection line along the east‐west direction, leading to a boomerang‐like shape and (b) a tilting of flux ropes during their formation by non‐uniform reconnection with open field lines at the ends of the flux ropes. The progressive increase in the propagation velocity from the first to the last flux rope may be evidence of impulsive reconnection: initially deep inside the plasma sheet the reconnection rate is slow but as reconnection proceeds at the plasma sheet boundary and possibly lobes, the reconnection rate increases.
Robust empirical relationships for estimating the carbonate system in the southern California Current System and application to CalCOFI hydrographic cruise data (2005–2011)
Authors: Alin Simone R. , Feely Richard A. , Dickson Andrew G. , Hernández‐Ayón J. Martín , Juranek Lauren W. , Ohman Mark D. , Goericke Ralf
Published: April 2012

The California Current System (CCS) is expected to experience the ecological impacts of ocean acidification (OA) earlier than most other ocean regions because coastal upwelling brings old, CO2‐rich water relatively close to the surface ocean. Historical inorganic carbon measurements are scarce, so the progression of OA in the CCS is unknown. We used a multiple linear regression approach to generate empirical models using oxygen (O2), temperature (T), salinity (S), and sigma theta (σθ) as proxy variables to reconstruct pH, carbonate saturation states, carbonate ion concentration ([CO32−]), dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) concentration, and total alkalinity (TA) in the southern CCS. The calibration data included high‐quality measurements of carbon, oxygen, and other hydrographic variables, collected during a cruise from British Columbia to Baja California in May–June 2007. All resulting empirical relationships were robust, withr2values >0.92 and low root mean square errors. Estimated and measured carbon chemistry matched very well for independent data sets from the CalCOFI and IMECOCAL programs. Reconstructed CCS pH and saturation states for 2005–2011 reveal a pronounced seasonal cycle and inter‐annual variability in the upper water column. Deeper in the water column, conditions are stable throughout the annual cycle, with perennially low pH and saturation states. Over sub‐decadal time scales, these empirical models provide a valuable tool for reconstructing carbonate chemistry related to ocean acidification where direct observations are limited. However, progressive increases in anthropogenic CO2 content of southern CCS water masses must be carefully addressed to apply the models over longer time scales.
Comparison of a simple 2‐D Pluto general circulation model with stellar occultation light curves and implications for atmospheric circulation
Authors: Zalucha A. M. , Gulbis A. A. S.
Published: April 2012

We use a simple Pluto general circulation model (sPGCM) to predict for the first time the wind on Pluto and its global, large‐scale structure, as well as the temperature and surface pressure. Wind is a fundamental atmospheric variable that has previously been neither measured nor explicitly modeled on Pluto. We ran the sPGCM in 2‐D mode (latitude, height, and time varying) using the Massachusetts Institute of Technology general circulation model dynamical core, a simple radiative‐convective scheme, and no frost cycle. We found that Pluto's atmosphere is dynamically active in the zonal direction with high‐speed, high‐latitude jets that encircle the poles in gradient wind balance and prograde with Pluto's rotation. The meridional and vertical winds do not show evidence for a Hadley cell (or other large‐scale structure) due to the low‐altitude temperature inversion. The horizontal variation in surface pressure is a small fraction of the previously derived interannual variation in surface pressure. The simple general circulation model output was validated with stellar occultation light curve data from the years 1988, 2002, 2006, and 2007. For 2006 and 2007, the best fit global mean surface pressure was 24 microbar, in 2002 it was 22 microbar, and in 1988 it was 12 microbar (1 microbar error bars). For all years the methane mixing ratio was 1% (0.2% error bars). This work is a first step for future Pluto, Triton, and Kuiper Belt object atmosphere general circulation models that will also include longitudinal variations and a volatile cycle.
Tectonic development of the North Patagonian Andes and their related Miocene foreland basin (41°30′‐43°S)
Authors: Orts Darío Leandro , Folguera Andrés , Encinas Alfonso , Ramos Miguel , Tobal Jonathan , Ramos Víctor A.
Published: April 2012

The Northern Patagonian Andes have been constructed through multiple mechanisms that range from tectonic inversion of extensional structures of Early to Middle Jurassic age in the Main Andes to Oligocene in the Precordilleran region. These have acted during two distinctive orogenic stages, first in late Early Cretaceous and later in Miocene times Late Oligocene extension separates these two contractional periods and is recorded by half‐grabens developed in the retroarc region. The last contractional stage coexists with an eastward foreland expansion of the late Miocene arc whose roots are presently exposed as minor granitic stocks and volcanic piles subordinately in the Main Andes, east of the present arc. As a consequence of this orogenic stage a foreland basin has developed, having progressed from 18 Ma in the main North Patagonian Andes, where the mountain front was flooded by a marine transgression corresponding to the base of the Ñirihuau Formation, to 11 Ma in the foreland area. Cannibalization of this foreland basin occurred initially in the hinterland and then progressed to the foreland zone. Blind structures formed a broken foreland at the frontal zone inferred from growth strata geometries. During Pliocene to Quaternary times most of the contractional deformation was dissipated in the orogenic wedge at the time when the arc front retracted to its present position.
Temporal change in shear velocity and polarization anisotropy related to the 2011 M9.0 Tohoku‐Oki earthquake examined using KiK‐net vertical array data
Authors: Takagi Ryota , Okada Tomomi
Published: April 2012

The M9.0 Tohoku‐Oki earthquake took place off NE Japan, which is covered by a dense seismic network. In particular, KiK‐net observed the strong motions of the main shock and numerous aftershocks both on the ground and at the bottom of boreholes at a depth of a few hundred meters. We applied cross‐correlation analysis to the coda part of a seismogram observed by KiK‐net and estimated not only the temporal change in shear velocity but also the change in polarization anisotropy between the bottom of the borehole and the ground. The shear velocity was suddenly reduced by 5 to 10% after the Tohoku‐Oki earthquake over a wide area of NE Japan, which is consistent with the results of a previous study. Although some stations also reveal a change in polarization anisotropy, the polarization anisotropy change is smaller than the velocity change, which may suggest that the static stress change due to the coseismic slip on the Pacific plate is not large enough to change the direction of polarization anisotropy and/or deviatoric stress in the land area of NE Japan.
Potential aerosol indirect effects on atmospheric circulation and radiative forcing through deep convection
Authors: Fan Jiwen , Rosenfeld Daniel , Ding Yanni , Leung L. Ruby , Li Zhanqing
Published: April 2012

Aerosol indirect effects, i.e., the interactions of aerosols with clouds by serving as cloud condensation nuclei or ice nuclei constitute the largest uncertainty in climate forcing and projection. Previous IPCC reported negative aerosol indirect forcing, which does not account for aerosol‐convective cloud interactions because the complex processes involved are poorly understood and represented in climate models. Here we elucidated how aerosols change convective intensity, diabatic heating, and regional circulation under different environmental conditions. We found that aerosol indirect effect on deep convective cloud systems could lead to enhanced regional convergence and a strong top‐of‐atmosphere warming. Aerosol invigoration effect occurs mainly in warmed‐based convection with weak shear. This could result in a strong radiative warming in the atmosphere (up to +5.6 W m−2), a lofted latent heating, and a reduced diurnal temperature difference, all of which could potentially impact regional circulation and modify weather systems. The positive aerosol radiative forcing on deep clouds could offset the negative aerosol radiative forcing on low clouds to an unknown extent.