bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increased expression of adrenomedullin 2/intermedin in rat hearts with congestive heart failure
Authors: Hirose Takuo , Totsune Kazuhito , Mori Nobuyoshi , Morimoto Ryo , Hashimoto Masahiro , Nakashige Yukiko , Metoki Hirohito , Asayama Kei , Kikuya Masahiro , Ohkubo Takayoshi , Hashimoto Junichiro , Sasano Hironobu , Kohzuki Masahiro , Takahashi Kazuhiro , Imai Yutaka
Published: August 2008

Adrenomedullin 2/intermedin (AM2/IMD) is a novel member of the calcitonin/calcitonin gene‐related peptide family. To investigate the pathophysiological role of AM2/IMD in heart failure, we examined the expression of AM2/IMD, adrenomedullin (AM) and receptor complex components (calcitonin receptor‐like receptor, three types of receptor activity‐modifying proteins) by quantitative RT‐PCR and immunohistochemistry in the hearts and kidneys of rats with congestive heart failure (CHF). Significantly increased levels of AM2/IMD mRNAwere found in the atrium, right ventricle, non‐infarcted part of the left ventricle and the infarcted part of the left ventricle of CHF rats, compared with sham operated rats (about 2.8‐fold, 1.7‐fold, 1.7‐fold and 2.5‐fold, respectively). Expression levels of mRNA encoding AM and the receptor complex components were also increased in the hearts of CHF rats. In a separate experiment, AM2/IMD mRNA levels in the heart did not differ between Wistar—Kyoto and spontaneously hypertensive rats. In both sham operated and CHF rats, the myocardium was diffusely immunostained with AM2/IMD. The fibrotic infarcted layer was not immunostained with AM2/IMD but was surrounded by positively immunostained myocardial layers. These findings suggest that the expression of AM2/IMD is enhanced in the failing heart, and AM2/IMD has a certain pathophysiological role in heart failure.
l‐2,3‐Diaminopropionate: One of the building blocks for the biosynthesis of Zwittermicin A in Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki strain YBT‐1520
Authors: Zhao Changming , Song Chunxu , Luo Yi , Yu Ziniu , Sun Ming
Published: August 2008

Zwittermicin A (ZwA) is a hybrid polyketide–non‐ribosomal peptide that is thought to be biosynthesized from five proposed building blocks, including the 2,3‐diaminopropionate. Candidate genes for de novo biosynthesis of 2,3‐diaminopropionate, zwa5A and zwa5B, have been identified in a previous study. In this research, zwa5A was interrupted and chemically synthesized 2,3‐diaminopropionate was used to feed the zwa5A
− mutant. Results showed that feeding with 2,3‐diaminopropionate restored the ability of the zwa5A
− mutant to produce ZwA. Another non‐ribosomal peptide synthase gene, designated orf3, was identified. Amino acid dependent PPi release assay showed that the adenylation domain ZWAA2 of ORF3 acyl‐adenylated l‐2,3‐diaminopropionate effectively. Taken together, it can be concluded that l‐2,3‐diaminopropionate is indeed one of the building blocks for the biosynthesis of Zwittermicin A.
Nuclear localization of profilin III–ArpM1 complex in mouse spermiogenesis
Authors: Hara Yuki , Yamagata Kazuo , Oguchi Kei , Baba Tadashi
Published: August 2008

MINT‐6741685, MINT‐6741696, MINT‐6741707:

Arpm1 (uniprotkb:Q8BXF8) physically interacts (MI:0218) with Profilin-3 (uniprotkb:Q9DAD6) by antibait coimmunoprecipitation (MI:0006)

MINT‐6741718:

Profilin-3 (uniprotkb:Q9DAD6) and Arpm1 (uniprotkb:Q8BXF8) colocalize (MI:0403) by fluorescence microscopy (MI:0416)

MINT‐6741756:

Profilin-1 (uniprotkb:P62962) binds (MI:0407) to beta actin (uniprotkb:P60710) by pull-down (MI:0096)

MINT‐6741650:

Arpm1 (uniprotkb:Q8BXF8) physically interacts (MI:0218) with C030004A17Rik (uniprotkb:Q8C569), Vcp p97/p47 (uniprotkb:Q8CDG3), Kif21a (uniprotkb:Q9QXL2), Zfp291 (uniprotkb:Q501L8), Vcp (uniprotkb:Q01853) and Profilin-3(uniprotkb:Q9DAD6) by antibait coimmunoprecipitation (MI:0006)

MINT‐6741746:

Profilin-3 (uniprotkb:Q9DAD6) binds (MI:0407) to beta actin (uniprotkb:P60710) by pull-down (MI:0096)

MINT‐6741735:
Type II NAD(P)H dehydrogenases are targeted to mitochondria and chloroplasts or peroxisomes in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Carrie Chris , Murcha Monika W. , Kuehn Kristina , Duncan Owen , Barthet Michelle , Smith Penelope M. , Eubel Holger , Meyer Etienne , Day David A. , Millar A. Harvey , Whelan James
Published: August 2008

We found that four type II NAD(P)H dehydrogenases (ND) in Arabidopsis are targeted to two locations in the cell; NDC1 was targeted to mitochondria and chloroplasts, while NDA1, NDA2 and NDB1 were targeted to mitochondria and peroxisomes. Targeting of NDC1 to chloroplasts as well as mitochondria was shown using in vitro and in vivo uptake assays and dual targeting of NDC1 to plastids relies on regions in the mature part of the protein. Accumulation of NDA type dehydrogenases to peroxisomes and mitochondria was confirmed using Western blot analysis on highly purified organelle fractions. Targeting of ND proteins to mitochondria and peroxisomes is achieved by two separate signals, a C‐terminal signal for peroxisomes and an N‐terminal signal for mitochondria.
Identification of nucleolar effects in JNK‐deficient cells
Authors: Mialon Antoine , Thastrup Jacob , Kallunki Tuula , Mannermaa Leni , Westermarck Jukka , Holmström Tim H.
Published: August 2008

The c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK) signalling pathway has an established role in cellular stress signalling, cell survival and tumorigenesis. Here, we demonstrate that inhibition of JNK signalling results in partial delocalization of the RNA helicase DDX21 from the nucleolus to the nucleoplasm, increased nucleolar mobility of DDX21 and inhibition of rRNA processing. Furthermore, our results show that JNK signalling regulates DDX21 phosphorylation and protein expression. In conclusion, the results presented in this study reveal a previously unidentified cellular role for JNK signalling in the regulation of nucleolar functions. Based on these results, we propose that JNK‐mediated effects on nucleolar homeostasis and rRNA processing should be considered when interpreting cellular phenotypes observed in JNK‐deficient cell and animal models.
Rapamycin reduces VEGF expression in retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and inhibits RPE‐induced sprouting angiogenesis in vitro
Authors: Stahl A. , Paschek L. , Martin G. , Gross N.J. , Feltgen N. , Hansen L.L. , Agostini H.T.
Published: August 2008

Anti‐VEGF treatment has become accepted first‐line treatment for choroidal neovascularisation (CNV) in age‐related macular degeneration. However, VEGF‐inhibition does not always lead to sustained CNV‐reduction. In this study, the effect of rapamycin was superior to VEGF‐inhibition in a co‐culture assay of endothelial cells (ECs) and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Rapamycin reduced EC sprouting in groups that did not respond to anti‐VEGF treatment. Rapamycin did not induce EC apoptosis, but reduced both VEGF‐production in RPE and the responsiveness of ECs to stimulation. Rapamycin might therefore be a therapeutic option for CNV patients that do not respond sufficiently to the established anti‐VEGF treatments.
Patterns of cerebral white matter damage and cognitive impairment in adolescents born very preterm
Authors: Soria‐Pastor Sara , Gimenez Monica , Narberhaus Ana , Falcon Carles , Botet Francesc , Bargallo Nuria , Mercader Josep Maria , Junque Carme
Published: August 2008

There is increasing evidence about the presence of white matter damage in subjects with a history of premature birth, even in those classified as good outcome because of an apparently normal development. Although intellectual performance is within normal limits in premature children it is significantly decreased compared to paired controls. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between a lower performance intelligence quotient and white matter damage in preterm adolescents. The sample comprised 44 adolescents (mean age ± S.D.: 14.4 ± 1.6 years) born before 32 weeks of gestational age and 43 term‐born adolescents (14.5 ± 2.1 years). Individual voxel‐based morphometry analyses demonstrated that 35/44 (80%) preterm subjects had white matter abnormalities. The centrum semiovale and the posterior periventricular regions were the most frequently affected areas. Correlation analysis showed that in preterms the performance intelligence quotient correlated with the whole‐brain white matter volume (r = 0.32; P = 0.036) but not with grey matter volume. Complementary analysis showed that low scores in the Digit Symbol subtest, a measure of processing speed, in the preterm group correlated with reductions in white matter concentration. These results suggest that white matter damage is highly common and that it persists until adolescence. Hence, diffuse white matter loss may be responsible for performance intelligence quotient and processing speed decrements in subjects with very preterm birth.
Long‐term functional restoration by neural progenitor cell transplantation in rat model of cognitive dysfunction: co‐transplantation with olfactory ensheathing cells for neurotrophic factor support
Authors: Srivastava N. , Seth K. , Khanna V.K. , Ansari R.W. , Agrawal A.K.
Published: August 2008

Neural progenitor cell transplantation has emerged as a promising approach for cell replacement therapy in the brain of neurodegenerative diseases. These are multipotent stem cells with self‐renewal capabilities and can give rise to cells of all the three lineages of nervous system and can be maintained and differentiated to desirable neuronal subtypesin vitrowith known trophic factors. However, like fetal cells, neural progenitor cells after differentiating to specific neuronal type also require continuous neurotrophic factor support for their long‐term survival following transplantation. Recent reports suggest that olfactory ensheathing cells are capable of providing continuous neurotrophic factor to the transplanted neural progenitor cells for their long‐term survival. In the present investigation, an attempt has been made to validate functional restoration in kainic acid lesioned rat model of cognitive dysfunction following co‐transplantation of neural progenitor cells with olfactory ensheathing cells.

Animals lesioned with kainic acid in CA3 subfield of hippocampal region were transplanted with neural progenitor cells, olfactory ensheathing cells or neural progenitor cells + olfactory ensheathing cells together. Twelve weeks post‐transplantation functional restoration was assessed using neurobehavioral, neurochemical, and immunohistochemical approaches. Significant recovery in learning and memory (89%) was observed in co‐transplanted group when compared to lesioned group. This was accompanied by significantly higher expression of choline acetyltransferase and restoration in cholinergic receptor binding in co‐transplanted group (61%) over the animals transplanted either olfactory ensheathing cells or neural progenitor cells alone. Role of olfactory ensheathing cells in supplementing neurotrophic factors was further substantiatedin vitroby pronounced differentiation of neural progenitor cells to choline acetyltransferase/acetylcholine esterase immunoreactive cells when co‐cultured with olfactory ensheathing cells as compared to neural progenitor cells alone. The results strengthened the hypothesis that co‐transplantation of olfactory ensheathing cells and neural progenitor cells may be a better approach for functional restoration in kainic acid induced rat model of cognitive dysfunction.
Holocene environmental and climatic changes inferred from Wulungu Lake in northern Xinjiang, China
Authors: Liu Xingqi , Herzschuh Ulrike , Shen Ji , Jiang Qingfen , Xiao Xiayun
Published: August 2008

Sedimentological, geochemical and palynological data from Wulungu Lake in northern Xinjiang, China, are used to reconstruct environmental and climate changes since 9550 cal yr BP. High abundance of Sparganium and Poaceae, low Md (median diameter) and δ13Corganic values indicate aridity between 9550 and 6730 cal yr BP. High Md and δ13Corganic values, and the prevalence of desert-steppe and steppe vegetation between 4200 and 560 cal yr BP, indicate that effective moisture increased after 6730 cal yr BP, peaking at 4200 and 560 cal yr BP. Low Md values, a negative excursion of δ13Corg, and the transition from steppe to desert vegetation since 560 cal yr BP reflect a decrease in effective moisture during the latest Holocene. Late Holocene human activities were indicated by sharp increase in the abundance of Pediastrum then. Variations in carbonate contents indicate that temperature was generally high between 9550 and 7740 cal yr BP, low between 7740 and 6730 cal yr BP, intermediate between 6730 and 560 cal yr BP, and low during the last 560 yr. Regional comparison indicates that the Asian monsoon did not extend to Wulungu Lake and westerlies were the main factor in determining the moisture availability during the Holocene.
Rates of movement and distribution of transposable elements in Drosophila melanogaster: in situ hybridization vs Southern blotting data
Authors: MASIDE XULIO , BARTOLOMÉ CAROLINA , ASSIMACOPOULOS STAVROULA , CHARLESWORTH BRIAN
Published: August 2008

Genomic copy numbers and the rates of movement of nine families of transposable elements (TEs) of Drosophila melanogaster were estimated in two sets of mutation accumulation lines: Beltsville and Madrid. Southern blotting was used to screen a large number of samples from both genetic backgrounds for TEs. The Madrid lines were also screened by in situ hybridization of TEs to polytene chromosomes, in order to obtain more detailed information about the behaviour of TEs in the euchromatin. Southern blotting data provided evidence of insertions and excision events in both genetic backgrounds, occurring at rates of approximately 10−5 and 10−6 per element copy per generation, respectively. In contrast, in situ data from the Madrid background presented a completely different picture, with no evidence for excisions, and a significantly higher rate of transposition (1·01×10−4). Direct comparison of the two data sets suggests that the Southern blotting technique had serious deficiencies: (i) it underestimated element abundance; (ii) it revealed less than 30% of the new insertions detected by in situ hybridization; and (iii) changes in the size of restriction fragments from any source were spuriously identified as simultaneous insertion–excision events. Our in situ data are consistent with previous studies, and suggest that selection is the main force controlling element spread by transposition.
Selection and subsequent analysis of sib pair data for QTL detection
Authors: CHATZIPLIS DIMITRIOS G. , HAMANN HENNING , HALEY CHRIS S.
Published: August 2008

Haseman and Elston (1972) developed a robust regression method for the detection of linkage between a marker and a quantitative trait locus (QTL) using sib pair data. The principle underlying this method is that the difference in phenotypes between pairs of sibs becomes larger as they share a decreasing number of alleles at a particular QTL identical by descent (IBD) from their parents. In this case, phenotypically very different sibs will also on average share a proportion of alleles IBD at any marker linked to the QTL that is lower than the expected value of 0·5. Thus, the deviation of the proportion of marker alleles IBD from the expected value in pairs of sibs selected to be phenotypically different (i.e. discordant) can provide a test for the presence of a QTL. A simple regression method for QTL detection in sib pairs selected for high phenotypic differences is presented here. The power of the analytical method was found to be greater than the power obtained using the standard analysis when samples of sib pairs with high phenotypic differences were used. However, the use of discordant sib pairs was found to be less powerful for QTL detection than alternative selective genotyping schemes based on the phenotypic values of the sibs except with intense selection, when its advantage was only marginal. The most effective selection scheme overall was the use of sib pairs from entire families selected on the basis of high within-family variance for the trait in question. There is little effect of selection on QTL position estimates, which are in good agreement with the simulated values. However, QTL variance estimates are biased to a greater or lesser degree, depending on the selection method.
Difficulties in parentage analysis: the probability that an offspring and parent have the same heterozygous genotype
Authors: FIUMERA A. C. , ASMUSSEN M. A.
Published: August 2008

Parentage studies often estimate the number of parents contributing to half-sib progeny arrays by counting the number of alleles attributed to unshared parents. This approach is compromised when an offspring has the same heterozygous genotype as the shared parent, for then the contribution of the unshared parent cannot be unambiguously deduced. To determine how often such cases occur, formulae for co-dominant markers with n alleles are derived here for Ph, the probability that a given heterozygous parent has an offspring with the same heterozygous genotype, and Pa, the probability that a randomly chosen offspring has the same heterozygous genotype as the shared parent. These formulae have been derived assuming Mendelian segregation with either (1) an arbitrary mating system, (2) random mating or (3) mixed mating. The maximum value of Pa under random mating is 0·25 and occurs with any two alleles each at a frequency of 0·5. The behaviour with partial selfing (where reproduction is by selfing with probability s, and random mating otherwise) is more complex. For n [les ] 3 alleles, the maximum value of Pa occurs with any two alleles each at a frequency of 0·5 if s < 0·25, and with three equally frequent alleles otherwise. Numerically, the maximum value of Pa for n [ges ] 4 alleles occurs with n* [les ] n alleles at equal frequencies, where the maximizing number of alleles n* is an increasing function of the selfing rate. Analytically, the maximum occurs with all n alleles present and equally frequent if s [ges ] 2/3. In addition, the potential applicability of these formulae for evolutionary studies is briefly discussed.
A comment on Xie and Xu: ‘Mapping quantitative trait loci in tetraploid species’
Authors: HACKETT CHRISTINE A.
Published: August 2008

Xie & Xu (2000) present a model for mapping quantitative trait loci in an autotetraploid population. However, one aspect of their model, namely gamete formation, does not properly represent the biological process in autotetraploid species. This paper gives a more realistic formulation for this part of the model, and discusses the consequences for multipoint mapping.
Integrated stratigraphy of the Kimmeridge Clay Formation (Upper Jurassic) based on exposures and boreholes in south Dorset, UK
Authors: MORGANS-BELL HELEN S. , COE ANGELA L. , HESSELBO STEPHEN P. , JENKYNS HUGH C. , WEEDON GRAHAM P. , MARSHALL JOHN E. A. , TYSON RICHARD V. , WILLIAMS CAROLYN J.
Published: August 2008

For the purposes of a high-resolution multi-disciplinary study of the Upper Jurassic
Kimmeridge Clay Formation, two boreholes were drilled at Swanworth Quarry and one at
Metherhills, south Dorset, UK. Together, the cores represent the first complete section through the
entire formation close to the type section. We present graphic logs that record the stratigraphy of the
cores, and outline the complementary geophysical and analytical data sets (gamma ray, magnetic susceptibility,
total organic carbon, carbonate, δ13Corg). Of particular note are the new borehole data
from the lowermost part of the formation which does not crop out in the type area. Detailed logs are
available for download from the Kimmeridge Drilling Project web-site at http://kimmeridge.earth.ox.ac.uk/.
Of further interest is a mid-eudoxus Zone positive shift in the δ13Corg record, a feature
that is also registered in Tethyan carbonate successions, suggesting that it is a regional event and may
therefore be useful for correlation. The lithostratigraphy of the cores has been precisely correlated with
the nearby cliff section, which has also been examined and re-described. Magnetic-susceptibility and
spectral gamma-ray measurements were made at a regular spacing through the succession, and facilitate
core-to-exposure correlation. The strata of the exposure and core have been subdivided into four
main mudrock lithological types: (a) medium-dark–dark-grey marl; (b) medium-dark–dark
grey–greenish black shale; (c) dark-grey–olive-black laminated shale; (d) greyish-black–brownish-black
mudstone. The sections also contain subordinate amounts of siltstone, limestone and dolostone.
Comparison of the type section with the cores reveals slight lithological variation and notable thickness
differences between the coeval strata. The proximity of the boreholes and different parts of the
type section to the Purbeck–Isle of Wight Disturbance is proposed as a likely control on the thickness
changes.
The nature of the Variscan basement in southeast England: evidence from integrated potential field modelling
Authors: BUSBY J. P. , SMITH N. J. P.
Published: August 2008

The Variscides of southeast England are buried beneath post-Carboniferous cover.
Interpretations of the basement are based mainly on deep boreholes. Geophysical signatures from the
basement are contained within the regional gravity and magnetic data. A gravity stripping exercise has
been undertaken to remove the gravitational effect of the post-Variscan cover to generate a residual
gravity map. This map is interpreted along with integrated potential field modelling along four long
interconnected profiles and compared with a revised pre-Permian subcrop map. The magnetic evidence
suggests that Precambrian magnetic basement of the Midlands Microcraton has been buried
southwards by north-vergent Variscan thusting over the foreland. North of the Variscan Front, short-wavelength
anomalies superimposed upon this deep Precambrian source are due to shallower Silurian
and Carboniferous volcanic rocks. Many residual gravity lows within the Rhenohercynian zone may
be related to thick, low-density Devonian basins. In the English Channel a change in geophysical signature
occurs north of the Portland–Wight Fault, coinciding with phyllites in the basement. Models
are presented in which the English Channel magnetic anomalies originate within the pre-Permian
basement. Comparisons with anomalies in the Southwestern Approaches suggest that the
Portland–Wight Thrust is a terrane boundary, possibly a subduction-related suture, implying
southerly directed Variscan subduction.
Late Cenozoic, post-collisional Aegean igneous rocks: Nd, Pb and Sr isotopic constraints on petrogenetic and tectonic models
Authors: PE-PIPER GEORGIA , PIPER DAVID J. W.
Published: August 2008

Nd isotopic composition has been determined for 16 igneous rocks, representing the wide
geochemical, spatial and temporal range of post-collisional, late Cenozoic magmas in the Aegean
area. Nd isotopes are used to further interpret previously published Pb and Sr isotope data. The overall
pattern of late Cenozoic volcanism resulted from rapid extension, with thermal effects causing
melting of hydrated, enriched, subcontinental lithosphere to produce widespread K-rich magmas.
Slab break-off and intrusion of hot asthenosphere caused partial melting of rift-related continental
margin basalts at the detachment point to generate adakitic magmas. Further outboard, mafic magma
from enriched lithospheric mantle melted thickened lower crust to produce the granitoid plutons of
the Cyclades. Nd isotopic variation in these varied rock types correlates with pre-Cenozoic palaeo-geography.
Proterozoic subduction-related enrichment in Th and U, together with other large-ion
lithophile elements, produced distinctive Pb isotope composition. This was later modified where
Mesozoic subduction of terrigenous sediment was important, whereas subduction of oceanic carbonate
sediments produced enrichment in radiogenic Sr and low Ce/Sr ratios. Late Cenozoic magmas
sourced in eastern Pelagonian zone sub-continental lithospheric mantle have Nd model ages of about
1.0 Ga, and generally high 87Sr/86Sr and high 207Pb/204Pb (∼ 15.68) and 208Pb/204Pb (∼ 39.0) for low
206Pb/204Pb (∼ 18.6), but rocks to the west have more radiogenic Pb and higher Ce/Sr as a result of
greater subduction of terrigenous sediment from the northern Pindos ocean. Magmas sourced from
sub-continental lithosphere beneath the Apulian continental block were strongly influenced by subduction
of oceanic crust and sediments north of the passive margin of north Africa. Subduction of
Nile-derived terrigenous sediment in the east resulted in Nd model ages of 0.7 to 0.8 Ga and radiogenic
Pb isotopes. Greater subduction of oceanic carbonate in the west resulted in magmas with
higher 87Sr/86Sr and lower Ce/Sr. The strongly negative εNd for adakites in the central Aegean rules out
a source from subducted oceanic basalt, and the adakite magma was probably derived from melting of
hydrated Triassic sub-alkaline basalt of continental origin. Where trachytic rocks are succeeded by
nepheline-normative basalts (e.g. Samos), Nd isotope data imply that early partial melting of the
enriched subcontinental lithospheric mantle involved hydrous amphibole and phlogopite, but once
these minerals were consumed, younger magmas were produced by partial melting dominated by
olivine and orthopyroxene.
Structural evolution and significance of a mélange in a collision belt: the Lichi Mélange and the Taiwan arc–continent collision
Authors: CHANG C. P. , ANGELIER J. , HUANG C. Y. , LIU C. S.
Published: August 2008

The analysis of ‘mélanges’ of various types (sedimentary, diapiric, tectonic and polygenetic)
is generally difficult and depends on a variety of criteria. However, understanding the nature and
origin of mélanges is crucial to deciphering the evolution of some mountain belts. The Lichi Mélange
of the Taiwan Coastal Range is juxtaposed against remnant forearc basin sequences by thrust faults
and is composed of exotic ophiolite and sedimentary blocks, with sizes ranging from metres to kilometres,
and coherent turbidite beds, all embedded in a sheared scaly argillaceous matrix. The Lichi
Mélange has been interpreted either as a subduction complex, or as an olistostrome. By separating
four main deformation levels based on the degree of disruption within the Lichi Mélange and adjacent
sedimentary rocks, we have made new detailed geological maps and structural profiles in two key areas
of the Lichi Mélange. We paid particular attention to the original stratigraphic relationships between
the mélange and the adjacent flysch formation. Our field results compared with submarine seismic
profiles suggest that the present-day structure of the Lichi Mélange results mainly from the shearing of
lower forearc basin sequences, rather than from a subduction complex or a mere olistostrome. In Late
Miocene time, because lithospheric subduction turned into arc–continent collision in the southern
Taiwan area, the site of the proto-Manila trench changed from an active plate boundary into a deformation
zone with several thrusts. A new plate suture zone between the Eurasian plate (eastern Central
Range) and the Philippine Sea plate (Coastal Range) was therefore formed along the Longitudinal
Valley. The Longitudinal Valley originated as a submarine arc–prism boundary, an innate weak zone
within the overriding plate, and has become a prominent tectonic feature of the arc–continent collision.
This inference is supported by observations on the Lichi Mélange in the Coastal Range and the
Huatung Ridge off southeastern Taiwan.
An Evaluation of the Effect of Public Support in
Enhancing Occupational Incorporation of Former Soviet
Union Immigrants to Israel: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: MENAHEM GILA , LERNER MIRI
Published: August 2008

Does governmental intervention in the form of occupational training
and retraining and other forms of assistance improve immigrants'
occupational opportunities both as self-employed and as salaried
employees? These have been longstanding research and government
concerns in societies that face large waves of immigration. This study
reports on the research findings of a longitudinal study which sought
to examine the effects of governmental support mechanisms on the
incorporation of a large immigrant inflow from the former Soviet Union
(FSU) high in human capital into the labour market. Three types of
public support programmes were investigated: occupational retraining,
subsidised salaries for immigrants and support for immigrants in business
creation. The research population consisted of 910 new immigrants
from the FSU who arrived to Israel in the 1990s; they were
interviewed in-depth in 1992 and again in 1994/5. The findings show
that the three support mechanisms differ in their contribution to the
transferability of human capital of immigrants and their earnings from
jobs. They also affect men and women immigrants differently. The
question ‘what worked?’ is discussed from three viewpoints: accountability
of public programmes, knowledge basis and implementation. A
training system approach is used to explain differences in the effects of
the three policy instruments on the occupational incorporation of the
immigrants.
Experimental results on the nonlinear∞control via quasi-LPV representation and game theory for wheeled mobile robots
Authors: Inoue Roberto S. , Siqueira Adriano A. G. , Terra Marco H.
Published: August 2008

In this paper, nonlinear dynamic equations of a wheeled mobile robot are described in the state-space form where the parameters are part of the state (angular velocities of the wheels). This representation, known as quasi-linear parameter varying, is useful for control designs based on nonlinear∞approaches. Two nonlinear∞controllers that guarantee induced2-norm, between input (disturbances) and output signals, bounded by an attenuation level γ, are used to control a wheeled mobile robot. These controllers are solved via linear matrix inequalities and algebraic Riccati equation. Experimental results are presented, with a comparative study among these robust control strategies and the standard computed torque, plus proportional-derivative, controller.
6-DOF parallel manipulators with better dexterity, rotatability, or singularity-free workspace
Authors: Tsai K. Y. , Lee T. K.
Published: August 2008

Isotropic manipulators are generally considered as designs with optimum dexterity. Currently, many 6-DOF (degrees-of-freedom) isotropic parallel manipulators can be developed by numerical or analytical methods. At an isotropic configuration, a manipulator is equidistant from its neighboring singular points. The distance, however, can be very small, so an isotropic design might have relatively smaller singularity-free workspace. This paper presents methods to develop traditional 6-DOF parallel manipulators with better dexterity and larger singularity-free workspace. Some fully symmetric nontraditional designs are then proposed. The evaluation of kinematic properties shows that the fully symmetric designs have very good global dexterity, better rotatability, and relatively larger singularity-free workspace. The manipulators are suitable for some special tasks requiring higher precision, better rotatability, or larger workspace.
Richard Burton's Somali Expedition, 1854–55: Its Wider Historical Context and Planning
Authors: Godsall Jon R.
Published: August 2008

This article provides, for the first time, a detailed and authentic account of the genesis and planning of the Somali Expedition, derived from previously unresearched documents in the Oriental and India Office Collections of the British Library, and supplemented by material from the archives of the Royal Geographical Society. The author has sought to give the subject a wider historical perspective than that provided by Burton, by including details from the works of earlier travellers in the north-east region of Africa such as James Bruce, Lord Valentia, and Henry Salt, which, to a greater or lesser degree, have a bearing on Somalia. He has also touched on the ‘Eastern Question’, especially with regard to Muhammed Ali's territorial ambitions in Arabia, which was an important factor in the British decision to annex Aden in 1839, leading inevitably to the development of an important relationship, both commercial and strategic, with the Somali coast across the Gulf.
Buddhist Saints in Ancient Vedisa
Authors: Willis Michael
Published: August 2008

The Buddhist saints, that are the subject of this article, are known from a series of inscribed reliquaries collected by Alexander Cunningham and F. C. Maisey at Sanchi and neighbouring sites in central India. The inscriptions, dating to the circa early first century BC, have been known since readings of them were first published the mid-nineteenth century. The detailed re-examination of the records presented in this article shows that the reliquary inscriptions give special prominence to five Buddhist saints. The names given correspond to the five missionaries who, according to Pali sources, were sent to the Himalayan region at the time of the Third Council in the mid-third century BC. This indicates that (a) the Hemavata school was responsible for the re-vitalization of Sanchi in the post-Mauryan period and (b) that there was a well-established tradition about the nature of the Third Council in the first century BC.
Coordinated observations of magnetospheric reconfiguration during an overshielding event
Authors: Wei Y. , Hong M. , Wan W. , Du A. , Pu Z. , Thomsen M. F. , Ren Z. , Reeves G. D.
Published: August 2008

During 1400–1800 UT on September 15, 2005, the solar wind exhibited large variations and caused a moderate magnetic storm. The Jicamarca incoherent scatter radar, located near the local noon, observed an overshielding event after the northward turning of interplanetary magnetic field. The overshielding event featured distinct increase and decrease phases. We have examined the magnetospheric configuration variation with the geosynchronous observations provided by GOES12 (dayside) and LANL 97A (nightside), as well as the tail magnetic field monitored by Double Star TC1. The results suggested that the time‐dependent magnetospheric reconfiguration process is closely related to the development of equatorial electric field. We speculate that the magnetospheric reconfiguration may cause equatorial ionosphere electric field disturbances through affecting the Region 2 field aligned current.
Winter “weekend effect” in southern Europe and its connections with periodicities in atmospheric dynamics
Authors: Sanchez‐Lorenzo A. , Calbó J. , Martin‐Vide J. , Garcia‐Manuel A. , García‐Soriano G. , Beck C.
Published: August 2008

Winter weekly cycles of different climatic variables have been detected over Spain during the 1961–2004 period. The 13 analyzed series come from stations placed on different climatological and geographical areas with different level of urban influence. Therefore, the weekly cycles can hardly be related with local effects. Contrarily, we suggest that the weekly cycles may be related with changes in the atmospheric circulation over Western Europe, which may be due to some indirect effect of anthropogenic aerosols. Particularly interesting is the observed increase in Sea Level Pressure over Southern Europe during the weekends and consequently a decrease of anticyclonic conditions during the central weekdays.
A predictive model for relativistic electrons at geostationary orbit
Authors: Lyatsky Wladislaw , Khazanov George V.
Published: August 2008

We developed a predictive model for forecasting relativistic electrons at geostationary orbit that provides very high correlation between the predicted and actual electron fluxes. We integrated numerically the two linked continuity equations for preliminary accelerated electrons and relativistic electrons. The model includes sources and losses, and it uses solar wind data as only input parameters. We used the solar wind coupling function as the source, while the loss term we assumed to be proportional to the solar wind density which plays an important role in the decay of relativistic electrons. Relativistic electron fluxes, predicted from this model, show very high correlation with the actual electron fluxes at geostationary orbit. We tested the model for four‐year period (2004–2007). The correlation coefficients between predicted and actual values of the electron fluxes for one day ahead for each year are about 0.93.
Solamargine induces apoptosis and enhances susceptibility to trastuzumab and epirubicin in breast cancer cells with low or high expression levels of HER2/neu
Authors: Shiu Li Yen , Liang Chia Hua , Chang Li Ching , Sheu Hamm Ming , Tsai Eing Mei , Kuo Kou Wha
Published: August 2008

Trastuzumab is used for breast cancer patients with high expression levels of HER2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2)/neu; however, it has no effect on cancers with low levels of HER2/neu. SM (solamargine), a major steroidal alkaloid glycoside purified from Solanum incanum, triggered apoptosis of breast cancer cells (MCF-7 and SK-BR-3 cells) and non-cancerous breast epithelial cells (HBL-100 cells) within 3 h. To extend the application of trastuzumab in breast cancer patients, the regulation of HER2/neu expression by SM was investigated. SM significantly up-regulates HER2/neu expression in breast cancer cells with low and high expression levels of HER2/neu, and synergistically enhanced the effect of trastuzumab in inhibiting cell proliferation. Additionally, HER2/neu and TOP2A [TopoII (topoisomerase II) α] genes share the same amplicon on an identical chromosome. Notably, SM co-regulates HER2/neu and TopoIIα expression markedly, and enhances TopoII inhibitor–EPI (epirubicin)-induced cytotoxicity to breast cancer cells.
Improved cycleability of LiMn2O4-based thin films by Sn substitution
Authors: Shin Dong Wook , Choi Ji-Won , Choi Won-Kook , Cho Yong Soo , Yoon Seok-Jin
Published: August 2008

The spinel thin films of LiSnx∕2Mn2−xO4 prepared by pulsed laser deposition were studied in regards with electrochemical reversibility and discharge capacity. LiSn0.0125Mn1.975O4 thin films possessed a large capacity of ∼120mAhg−1 and a high capacity retention of >81% relative to their initial capacity at 4C after the 90th cycle. Such promising results are believed to originate from the Mn4+-richer spinel structure and the less distortion of MnO6 octahedra. The near-edge x-ray-absorption fine structure result of the cycled LiSn0.0125Mn1.975O4 films can be highlighted with the specific local t2g symmetry resulting from the interaction between Mn 3d and O 2p.
Finite-Larmor-radius kinetic theory of a magnetized plasma in the macroscopic flow reference frame
Authors: Ramos J. J.
Published: August 2008

A straightforward operator method is used to derive a form of the drift-kinetic equation for a collisionless plasma species in the moving reference frame of its macroscopic flow. This equation is valid for sonic time scales and flow velocities, with first-order finite-Larmor-radius effects included. It applies rigorously to far-from-Maxwellian distribution functions and to general space and time variations of the magnetic field. Its velocity moments are shown to reproduce exactly the corresponding fluid equations obtained from moments of the full Vlasov equation.
Electromagnetic properties of FeNi alloy nanoparticles prepared by hydrogen-thermal reduction method
Authors: Zhen L. , Gong Y. X. , Jiang J. T. , Shao W. Z.
Published: August 2008

FeNi alloy nanoparticles were prepared by hydrogen-thermal reduction in nickel ferrite nanoparticles at 400 °C for 1 h. FeNi alloy nanoparticles with average particle size of 150 nm in diameter are composed of Fe, Ni, and FeNi solid solution. The effective complex permittivity and complex permeability of FeNi alloy nanoparticles in the frequency range of 2–18 GHz were measured, and the microwave reflection loss of FeNi/wax with different assumed coating thicknesses was calculated according to the transmission line theory. The hydrogen-thermal reduced FeNi alloy nanoparticles were found to possess high permeability and superior microwave absorption performance in the microwave band.
Isotope effects in liquid water by infrared spectroscopy. II. Factor analysis of the temperature effect on H2O and D2O
Authors: Larouche Pascal , Max Jean-Joseph , Chapados Camille
Published: August 2008

Some 500 infrared (IR) spectra of light and heavy waters were obtained between 29 and 93°C in order to identify the species present in liquid water. Factor analysis of these gives two species for each type of water with their IR spectra and abundance curves. Using an orthogonalization procedure, we obtained the temperature factor limits of −22 and +118°C (±5°C) that we coined cold and hot factors, respectively. Within experimental error, these limits are the same for light and heavy waters. The spectra of the orthogonalized factors presented show a decrease of the OH (OD) stretch band integrated intensities of almost 36% from the cold to the hot factors. No “free” OH (OD) group is present or formed in the temperature ramp. This indicates that all water molecules in the bulk are made of an oxygen atom surrounded with four hydrogen atoms, two covalently bonded, and two hydrogen bonded. This is consistent with the previous study of mixtures of H2O and D2O [part I: J.-J. Max and C. Chapados, J. Chem. Phys. 116, 4626 (2002)]. To maintain the ordinary liquid within the limits of 0 and 100°C at atmospheric pressure, a fraction of the cold and hot factors are necessary. With the spectra of the cold and hot factors and the abundance curves, one can generate the spectrum at any temperature between −22 and +118°C of light and heavy liquid waters.
Calculations of static dipole polarizabilities of alkali dimers: Prospects for alignment of ultracold molecules
Authors: Deiglmayr Johannes , Aymar Mireille , Wester Roland , Weidemüller Matthias , Dulieu Olivier
Published: August 2008

The rapid development of experimental techniques to produce ultracold alkali molecules opens the ways to manipulate them and to control their dynamics using external electric fields. A prerequisite quantity for such studies is the knowledge of their static dipole polarizability. In this paper, we computed the variations with internuclear distance and with vibrational index of the static dipole polarizability components of all homonuclear alkali dimers including Fr2, and of all heteronuclear alkali dimers involving Li to Cs, in their electronic ground state and in their lowest triplet state. We use the same quantum chemistry approach as in our work on dipole moments [Aymar and Dulieu, J. Chem. Phys. 122, 204302 (2005)], based on pseudopotentials for atomic core representation, Gaussian basis sets, and effective potentials for core polarization. Polarizabilities are extracted from electronic energies using the finite-field method. For the heaviest species Rb2, Cs2, and Fr2 and for all heteronuclear alkali dimers, such results are presented for the first time. The accuracy of our results on atomic and molecular static dipole polarizabilities is discussed by comparing our values with the few available experimental data and elaborate calculations. We found that for all alkali pairs, the parallel and perpendicular components of the ground state polarizabilities at the equilibrium distance Re scale as (Re)3, which can be related to a simple electrostatic model of an ellipsoidal charge distribution. Prospects for possible alignment and orientation effects with these molecules in forthcoming experiments are discussed.
The absence of plasma in “spark plasma sintering”
Authors: Hulbert Dustin M. , Anders André , Dudina Dina V. , Andersson Joakim , Jiang Dongtao , Unuvar Cosan , Anselmi-Tamburini Umberto , Lavernia Enrique J. , Mukherjee Amiya K.
Published: August 2008

Spark plasma sintering (SPS) is a remarkable method for synthesizing and consolidating a large variety of both novel and traditional materials. There are a number of mechanisms proposed to account for the enhanced sintering abilities of the SPS process. Of these mechanisms, the one most commonly put forth and the one that draws the most controversy involves the presence of momentary plasma generated between particles. This study employs three separate experimental methods in an attempt to determine the presence or absence of plasma during SPS. The methods employed include in situ atomic emission spectroscopy, direct visual observation, and ultrafast in situ voltage measurements. Using these experimental techniques, no evidence of plasma was found during the SPS process. This result was confirmed using several different powders across a wide spectrum of SPS conditions.
Comparative study of tunneling currents through silicon dioxide and high-κ dielectric hafnium oxide partly embedded with nanocrystals and nanotubes in metal oxide semiconductor structures
Authors: Chakraborty Gargi , Sarkar C. K.
Published: August 2008

We have investigated the influence of silicon nanoparticles and carbon nanotubes as the charge storage element embedded in a narrow layer in the thin gate dielectric of metal oxide semiconductor (MOS) structures. The gate dielectric is assumed to consist of two layers. The thin pure oxide near the silicon substrate is the first layer and on top of it is the composite oxide layer embedded with silicon nanocrystallites or carbon nanotubes forming the floating gate of the MOS structures. We have studied the tunneling currents through the barrier formed at the interface of the silicon substrate and the embedded gate dielectric. Mainly, two types of tunneling phenomena have been investigated. One is the direct tunneling and the other is the Fowler–Nordheim (FN) tunneling at low and high applied gate voltages, respectively. Three parameters of the composite gate dielectric, such as the barrier height, the effective mass, and the dielectric constant have been modified in comparison with the pure oxide gate dielectric to calculate the tunneling currents. In our MOS structure model, we have used the silicon nanocrystallites and single-walled semiconducting carbon nanotubes as the embedded inclusion particles in the gate oxide of either in silicon dioxide (SiO2) or in high-κ hafnium oxide (HfO2). The direct tunneling currents in both the cases have been observed at the negative and at very low positive gate biases whereas the FN tunneling current has been observed at high applied gate bias. In terms of the tunneling currents (both direct and FN) the carbon nanotubes showed a superior electrical performance and are more effective as a charge storage node compared to silicon nanocrystallites, such as the lowest direct tunneling leakage current and the lowest FN tunneling onset voltage irrespective of the gate dielectric in which they are embedded.
Instability of a fluid inside a precessing cylinder
Authors: Lagrange Romain , Eloy Christophe , Nadal François , Meunier Patrice
Published: August 2008

In this letter, we report experimental results on the stability of a fluid inside a precessing and resonant cylinder. Above a critical Reynolds number, the Kelvin mode forced by precession triggers an instability which saturates at intermediate Re and which leads to a turbulent flow at high Reynolds numbers. Particle image velocimetry measurements in two different sections of the cylinder have revealed the three-dimensional structure of this instability. It is composed of two free Kelvin modes whose wavenumbers and frequencies respect the conditions for a triadic resonance with the forced Kelvin mode, as is obtained for the elliptical instability. Moreover, an experimental diagram of stability has been established by varying both the precessing angle and the Reynolds number. It shows a good agreement with a scaling analysis based on a triadic resonance mechanism.