bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Holocene changes in precipitation seasonality in the western Mediterranean Basin: a multi‐species approach using δ13C of archaeobotanical remains
Authors: Aguilera M. , Ferrio J. P. , Pérez G. , Araus J. L. , Voltas J.
Published: September 2011

Precipitation has been of utmost importance in shaping the evolution of landscapes and human settlements in the Mediterranean. However, information on seasonal precipitation patterns through the Holocene is scarce. This study attempts to quantify the evolution of seasonal precipitation in the East Iberian Peninsula (5000 BC to AD 600) based on the carbon isotope composition (δ13C) of archaeobotanical remains. Data on Holm oak, Aleppo pine and small‐grain cereals were combined, and precipitation was inferred from models relating present‐day records to the δ13C of modern samples. Subsequently, charred grains were used as a proxy for ancient moisture during April–May, whereas oak and pine charcoals provided complementary rainfall estimates for September–December and January–August, respectively. The results reveal aridity changes throughout the Holocene in the western Mediterranean. Past spring–summer precipitation was consistently higher than at present. In contrast, autumn and early winter precipitation showed stronger fluctuations, particularly during the first millennium BC, and often exhibited values below those of the present. The high contribution of autumn precipitation to the annual water budget, typical of the present Mediterranean climate, was definitively established at the beginning of the current era. This study shows how a combination of species holding complementary environmental signals can contribute to a wider knowledge of local precipitation dynamics. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A One Pot, One Step Method for the Preparation of Clickable Hydrogels by Photoinitiated Polymerization
Authors: Yilmaz Gorkem , Kahveci Muhammet U. , Yagci Yusuf
Published: September 2011

Current preparation methods for hydrogels based on redox or photopolymerization of water soluble monomers are simple to use, and flexible, but have the drawback of requiring additional modification steps for tuning or introducing properties for specific purposes. We have devised a simple and rapid synthetic strategy to prepare hydrogels possessing reactive sites to incorporate any molecules of interest by “Click Chemistry”. The strategy is based on the use of propargyl acrylamide (PAm) as comonomer together with acrylamide (AAm) and N,N′‐methylene bisacrylamide (BAAm) as crosslinker in photoinitiated polymerization. With the selective reactivity of photochemically generated free radicals towards acrylic function of PAm, hydrogels with clickable acetylene groups can be prepared in one pot, one step manner. Based on the acetylene functionality, any molecule possessing azide groups can be conjugated onto hydrogel by “Click Chemistry” as demonstrated on the example of fluoroscent azide functional pyrene.
Pediatric Asthma: Natural History, Assessment, and Treatment
Authors: Herzog Ronit , Cunningham‐Rundles Susanna
Published: September 2011

Wheezing and childhood asthma are not synonymous but rather comprise a heterogeneous group of conditions that have different outcomes over the course of childhood. Most infants who wheeze have a transient condition associated with diminished airway function at birth and have no increased risk of asthma later in life. However, children with persistent wheezing throughout childhood and frequent exacerbations represent the main challenge today. Studying the natural history of asthma is important for the understanding and accurate prediction of the clinical course of different phenotypes. To date, a great improvement has been achieved in reducing the frequency of asthma symptoms. However, neither decreased environmental exposure nor controller treatment, as recommended by the recent National Asthma Education And Prevention Program, can halt the progression of asthma in childhood or the development of persistent wheezing phenotype. This review focuses on the recent studies that led to the current understanding of asthma phenotypes in childhood and the recommended treatments. Mt Sinai J Med 78:645–660, 2011. © 2011 Mount Sinai School of Medicine
Treatment of Asthma and Food Allergy With Herbal Interventions From Traditional Chinese Medicine
Authors: Li Xiu‐Min
Published: September 2011

Prevalence of asthma and allergy has increased over the past 2–3 decades in Westernized countries. Despite increased understanding of the pathogenesis of asthma and allergic diseases, control of severe asthma is still difficult. Asthma is also associated with a high prevalence of anxiety, particularly in adolescents. There is no effective treatment for food allergy. Food allergy is often associated with severe and recalcitrant eczema. Novel approaches for treatment of asthma and food allergy and comorbid conditions are urgently needed. Traditional Chinese medicine, used in Asia for centuries, is beginning to play a role in Western healthcare. There is increasing scientific evidence supporting the use of traditional Chinese medicine for asthma treatment. Since 2005, several controlled clinical studies of “antiasthma” herbal remedies have been published. Among the herbal medicines, antiasthma herbal medicine intervention is the only antiasthma traditional Chinese medicine product that is a Food and Drug Administration investigational new drug that has entered clinical trials in the United States. Research into the effects and mechanisms of action of antiasthma herbal medicine intervention in animal models is actively being pursued. Research on traditional Chinese medicine herbal medicines for treating food allergy is rare. The herbal intervention Food Allergy Herbal Formula‐2 is the only Food and Drug Administration botanical investigational new drug under investigation as a multiple food allergy therapy. This review article discusses promising traditional Chinese medicine interventions for asthma, food allergy, and comorbid conditions, and explores their possible mechanisms of action. Mt Sinai J Med 78:697–716, 2011. © 2011 Mount Sinai School of Medicine
Fasciculation potentials in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and the diagnostic yield of the Awaji algorithm
Authors: Higashihara Mana , Sonoo Masahiro , Imafuku Ichiro , Fukutake Toshio , Kamakura Keiko , Inoue Kiyoharu , Hatanaka Yuki , Shimizu Teruo , Tsuji Shoji , Ugawa Yoshikazu
Published: September 2011

Introduction: The role of fasciculation potentials (FPs) in the diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) has been underrated. The Awaji algorithm has restored the value of FPs. Our aim was to test the diagnostic yield of the Awaji algorithm, with consideration of FPs. Methods: Subjects consisted of 139 consecutive ALS patients retrospectively enrolled over 5 years. At presentation we evaluated the diagnostic categories using the revised El Escorial Criteria (R‐EEC) and the Awaji algorithm. Results: The percentage of patients classified as confirmed ALS, clinically probable (laboratory‐supported), or higher was 43% using the R‐EEC and 37% using the Awaji algorithm. Thirteen patients with upper motor neuron signs only in one body region showed a decrease in their category using the Awaji algorithm. FPs were observed in 89% of ALS patients and were frequent in proximal muscles. Conclusion: The sensitivity of the Awaji algorithm is lower than that of the R‐EEC. Muscle Nerve, 2012
The interprotein scoring noises in glide docking scores
Authors: Wang Wei , Zhou Xi , He Wanlin , Fan Yi , Chen Yuzong , Chen Xin
Published: September 2011

Small molecule drugs are rarely selective enough to interact solely with their designated targets. Unintended “off‐target” interactions often lead to side effects, but also serendipitously lead to new therapeutic uses. Identification of the off‐targets of a compound is therefore of significant value to the evaluation of its developmental potential. In computational biology, the strategy of “reverse docking” has been introduced to predict the targets of a compound, which uses a compound to virtually screen a library of proteins, reversing the bait and prey in “normal” docking screenings. The present study shows that, in reverse docking, additional optimization of the scoring function may help to improve the target prediction accuracy. In a case study with the Glide scores, we found that only 57% of the ligand–protein relationships could be correctly identified in a library of 58 complexes whose crystal binding conformations were all able to be accurately reproduced. This was likely a result of the constant over‐ or under‐estimation of the scores for specific proteins. In other words, there were interprotein noises in the Glide scores. Introducing a correction term based on protein characteristics improved the target‐prediction accuracy by 27% (57–72%). It is our hope that this focused discussion on the Glide scores would invite further efforts to characterize and normalize this type of interprotein noises in all docking scores, so that better target prediction accuracy can be achieved with the strategy of reverse docking. Proteins 2012; © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Doppler radar observations of non‐occluding, cyclic vortex genesis within a long‐lived tornadic storm over southern England
Authors: Clark M. R.
Published: September 2011

On 3 November 2009 a long‐lived tornadic storm developed close to the apex of a small frontal wave moving eastwards over southern England. Ten tornadoes and several instances of non‐tornadic wind damage occurred along a narrow path extending for over 120 km. The storm passed within 5 km of two of the radars in the Met Office's network, providing an opportunity for detailed observation. Initial development was in the form of an intense segment of line convection at the northern flank of the frontal wave and associated deepening surface mesolow (diameter 60–70 km). The line evolved rapidly; the southern portion bowed out to form a transient ‘S’‐shaped echo before dissipating. The northern section persisted, leaving a hook‐shaped storm which became quasi‐steady in overall echo shape.

Radars revealed the cyclic development of five discrete low‐level mesovortices (diameter 1–4 km) between 1130 and 1330 UTC, along a zone of intense cyclonic vertical vorticity at the southeastern edge of the storm. These vortices intensified rapidly (typically from initial detection to maximum observed differential velocity in ∼10 min), some attaining low‐level differential velocities exceeding 40 m s−1. However, significant differential velocities (>20 m s−1) were not observed above 2.5 km above ground level, and no persistent mid‐level mesocyclone was present. The cyclic behaviour was unusual in that vortices were ‘non‐occluding’, moving southeastwards relative to the storm (to the right of the storm motion vector), away from the core. This is in contrast to the more commonly observed evolution of vortex occlusion (by storm downdraughts) and subsequent leftward and rearward storm‐relative movement during decay. Copyright © 2011 British Crown copyright, the Met Office. Published by JohnWiley & Sons Ltd.
All experience is not created equal: learning, adapting, and focusing in product portfolio management
Authors: Eggers J.P.
Published: September 2011

This study explores the contingencies relating firm experience to product development capabilities, focusing on experience type (breadth versus depth) and timing (prior versus concurrent). Results from empirical tests in the U.S. mutual fund industry offer two primary findings. First, firms increase proficiency at adapting their processes to address new opportunities as they accumulate experience in entering new niches, but face initial hurdles broadening their experience base. Second, concurrent learning is capacity constrained, as product quality increases in the number of products introduced simultaneously in one niche, but quality decreases as the firm's concurrent portfolio of new products broadens. Jointly, these findings highlight that dynamic capabilities are built through prior adaptation experience and that management of a product development portfolio is an important managerial capability. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Intercellular adhesion: mechanisms for growth and metastasis of epithelial cancers
Authors: Balzer Eric M. , Konstantopoulos Konstantinos
Published: September 2011

Cell–cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) comprise a broad class of linker proteins that are crucial for the development of multicellular organisms, and for the continued maintenance of organ and tissue structure. Because of its pivotal function in tissue homeostasis, the deregulation of intercellular adhesion is linked to the onset of most solid tumors. The breakdown of homeostatic cell adhesions in highly ordered epithelial sheets is directly implicated in carcinogenesis, while continued changes in the adhesion profile of the primary tumor mass facilitate growth and expansion into adjacent tissue. Intercellular adhesion molecules are also involved in each subsequent phase of metastasis, including transendothelial migration, transit through the bloodstream or lymphatics, and renewed proliferation in secondary sites. This review addresses various roles of cadherin‐ and selectin‐mediated intercellular adhesion in tumor initiation and malignant transformation, and discusses the mechanisms for the arrest and adhesion of circulating tumor cells to the vessel endothelium. Considering the contributions of these CAMs to cancer progression in the context of a systematic biological framework may prove valuable in identifying new ways to diagnose and treat cancer. WIREs Syst Biol Med 2012, 4:171–181. doi: 10.1002/wsbm.160

This article is categorized under:

Biological Mechanisms > Cell Fates

Biological Mechanisms > Cell Signaling

Laboratory Methods and Technologies > Macromolecular Interactions, Methods
Risk Factors for Mesh‐related Infections After Hernia Repair Surgery: A Meta‐analysis of Cohort Studies
Authors: Mavros Michael N. , Athanasiou Stavros , Alexiou Vangelis G. , Mitsikostas Pantelis K. , Peppas George , Falagas Matthew E.
Published: September 2011

Mesh infection, although infrequent, is a devastating complication of mesh hernioplasties. The aim of this study was to systematically review and synthesize the available evidence on risk factors for synthetic mesh infection after hernioplasty. A systematic search was performed in PubMed and Scopus databases. The extracted data were synthesized with the methodology of meta‐analysis. We identified six eligible studies that reported on 2,418 mesh hernioplasties. The crude mesh infection rate was 5%. Statistically significant risk factors were smoking (risk ratio [RR] = 1.36 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.07, 1.73]; 1,171 hernioplasties), American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score ≥3 (RR = 1.40 [1.15, 1.70]; 1,682 hernioplasties), and emergency operation (RR = 2.46 [1.56, 3.91]; 1,561 hernioplasties). Also, mesh infections were significantly correlated with patient age (weighted mean difference [WMD] = 2.63 [0.22, 5.04]; 2,364 hernioplasties), ASA score (WMD = 0.23 [0.08, 0.38]; 1,682 hernioplasties), and the duration of the hernioplasty (WMD = 44.92 [25.66, 64.18]; 833 hernioplasties). A trend toward higher mesh infection rates was observed in obese patients (RR = 1.41 [0.94, 2.11]; 2,243 hernioplasties) and in patients operated on by a resident (in contrast to a consultant; RR = 1.18 [0.99, 1.40]; 982 hernioplasties). Mesh infections usually resulted in mesh removal, and common pathogens included Staphylococcus spp., Enterococcus spp., and gram‐negative bacteria. Patient age, ASA score, smoking, and the duration and emergency setting of the operation were found to be associated with the development of synthetic mesh infection. The heterogeneity of the available evidence should be taken under consideration. Prospective studies with a meticulous follow‐up are warranted to further investigate mesh‐related infections.
Technique for Margin Convergence in Rotator Cuff Repair
Authors: Shindle Michael K. , Nho Shane J. , Nam Denis , MacGillivray John D. , Cordasco Frank A. , Adler Ronald S. , Altchek David W. , Warren Russell F.
Published: September 2011

The purpose of the present study is to describe the technique of margin convergence for U-shaped rotator cuff tears and report the clinical outcomes and ultrasonography with a minimum of 2 years follow-up. Three hundred eleven patients with a rotator cuff tear were prospectively enrolled in a registry at one institution. Inclusion criteria included any patient undergoing arthroscopic margin convergence for a rotator cuff tear. Exclusion criteria included open or mini-open rotator cuff repairs or suture anchor fixation to the cuff insertion without margin convergence. The outcome measurements included physical examination, manual muscle testing, the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, and ultrasonography. Nineteen patients met the study criteria and 13 were available for 2-year follow-up (68.4%). The mean age of this cohort was 62.2 ± 7.5 years with a mean pre-operative rotator cuff tear size of 4.0 ± 1.6 cm. The ASES score increased significantly from 50.0 ± 17.7 before surgery to 83.3 ± 19.5 at 2 years ( P = 0.01). The active forward elevation also improved from 156.2 ± 11.9° before surgery to 168.0 ± 12.1 at 2 years ( P = 0.03). The active external rotation 54.4 ± 14.5 at baseline and improved to 57.1 ± 19.1 at 2 years ( P = 0.04). The strength also increased significantly from 6.7 ± 6.4 to 10.6 ± 4.9 lb at 1 year ( P = 0.048). The post-operative ultrasound demonstrated that 46.2% of rotator cuff tears were healed at 2 years. In conclusion, margin convergence is a useful technique for U-shaped tears that are difficult to mobilize.
Regulatory responses to excess zinc ingestion in growing rats
Authors: Fujimura Tomoya , Matsui Tohru , Funaba Masayuki
Published: September 2011

The growth of weaning piglets is effectively improved by feeding a high-Zn diet (3000 mg Zn/kg of diet). The present study examined whether feeding a diet supplemented with Zn (1016–3000 mg/kg) for 10 d induces growth benefits in rats. In addition, tissue weight, Zn content of tissues and expression of Zn transporters were examined in these rats. Zn supplementation did not significantly increase body weight. Breaking line model analyses indicated that the weight of the pancreas, the organ most sensitive to excess Zn, significantly decreased with increasing Zn intake beyond 15·2 mg/d. Excess Zn has been suggested to accumulate in the liver, kidney and bone in order to protect the pancreas. Zn concentrations in the plasma, liver, kidney and femur increased with increasing Zn intake up to approximately 30 mg/d, whereas those in the pancreas increased up to 8·4 mg/d and decreased by Zn intake beyond 8·4 mg/d. The expression levels of the Zn transporters Zip4 and ZnT1 in the intestinal epithelium were significantly lower in rats fed a diet supplemented with 1016 mg/kg Zn compared to those fed the basal diet. The present study reveals that (1) excess Zn intake does not accelerate growth in rats, but is detrimental to the pancreas, (2) the excess Zn is effectively accumulated in the liver, kidney and bone, without sufficient protection of the pancreas and (3) expression of Zn transporters is down-regulated in response to excess Zn intake.
Maritime Head-Up Display: A Preliminary Evaluation
Authors: Holder Eric , Pecota Samuel R.
Published: September 2011

A major disadvantage of nearly every marine electronic navigation device introduced to date is the necessity for the navigator to turn his or her attention away from the view outside the bridge windows, even momentarily. Indeed, the uncomfortable feeling experienced by seasoned mariners that this ‘head down’ posture creates has led many to be initially reluctant to adopt some marine electronic devices (radar, ARPA, ECDIS, to name a few) that have proven their worth over time as useful, even vital navigational aids. Unfortunately, the use of such equipment has always required the marine navigator to leave behind the real world perspective view and enter an unnatural, two-dimensional plan view of the area surrounding the vessel. Mariners have accepted this type of view by necessity rather than by choice. That may be about to change. Advances in technology and a proven track record of performance benefits from Head-Up Display (or HUD) information in the aviation field have made it possible to consider if such a device would be useful in a maritime context. Accordingly, the authors of this paper conducted a preliminary evaluation to examine empirically what the effects of providing this same type of head-up information would be on marine navigation performance. A series of tests were conducted in the California Maritime Academy's advanced simulation facilities utilizing a full-mission simulator, a laptop-based HUD prototype, a projector, and student participants from an experimental undergraduate course entitled e-Navigation. The goals were to: 1) define the operational requirements and concept of operations for a maritime HUD system; 2) identify essential information, risks, and concerns; and 3) examine performance variations by conditions (environmental, vessel, crew) and tasks. The results indicate great potential for a maritime HUD system, especially for improving situational awareness in low visibility conditions, confined waters, and for vessels where information changes rapidly (i.e., high speed vessels). The results also suggest that there are some standard information requirements across situations that could be augmented with task and vessel specific information.
Interpolation Between AIS Reports: Probabilistic Inferences Over Vessel Path Space
Authors: Peters D. J. , Hammond T. R.
Published: September 2011

We present a method for addressing probabilistic queries about the location of a vessel in the time interval between two position reports, such as from the Automatic Identification System (AIS). The heart of the method is the random generation of physically feasible paths connecting the two reports. The method empowers operators to answer probabilistic questions about any characteristic of the unknown true path. For illustrative purposes, we demonstrate the use of the method to identify which of several vessels is the most likely perpetrator, in a fictitious scenario in which illegal dumping of waste matter has taken place.
The Deployment of Overseas GEE Chains in 1945/46
Authors: Blanchard Walter
Published: September 2011

At the end of WWII plans were made to provide a string of GEE Chains from the UK to the Far East to support trooping and re-supply flights. This paper collates information from three sources to examine the plan and the extent of its deployment.
Effects of climatic elements on Campylobacter-contaminated chicken products in Japan
Authors: ISHIHARA K. , TAKAHASHI R. , ANDOH M. , MAKITA K. , KAMIJI S. , UENO H. , MURAMATSU Y. , TAMURA Y.
Published: September 2011

Japanese weather data for areas that produced Campylobacter spp.-positive chicken products were compared with those for areas producing negative samples. Regarding samples produced during the period of rising temperature (spring and summer), the mean weekly air temperatures for Campylobacter-positive samples were higher than those for negative samples for the period of the week in which the samples were purchased (18·7°C vs. 13·1°C, P=0·006) to a 12-week lag (12 weeks before purchasing samples; 7·9°C vs. 3·4°C, P=0·009). Significant differences in weekly mean minimum humidity and sunshine duration per day were also observed for 1- and 2-week lag periods. We postulated that the high air temperature, high humidity and short duration of sunshine for the chicken-rearing period increased Campylobacter colonization in chickens during the period of rising temperature. Consequently, the number of Campylobacter-contaminated chicken products on the market in Japan may fluctuate because of the climatic conditions to which reared chickens are exposed.
Zoonotic bacteria, antimicrobial use and antimicrobial resistance in ornamental fish: a systematic review of the existing research and survey of aquaculture-allied professionals
Authors: WEIR M. , RAJIĆ A. , DUTIL L. , CERNICCHIARO N. , UHLAND F. C. , MERCIER B. , TUŠEVLJAK N.
Published: September 2011

Using systematic review methodology, global research reporting the frequency of zoonotic bacterial pathogens, antimicrobial use (AMU) and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in ornamental fish, and human illness due to exposure to ornamental fish, was examined. A survey was performed to elicit opinions of aquaculture-allied personnel on the frequency of AMU and AMR in ornamental fish. The most commonly reported sporadic human infections were associated withMycobacterium marinum, whileSalmonellaParatyphi B var. Java was implicated in all reported outbreaks.Aeromonasspp. were most frequently investigated (n=10 studies) in 25 studies surveying ornamental fish from various sources. High levels of resistance were reported to amoxicillin, penicillin, tetracycline and oxytetracycline, which was also in agreement with the survey respondents' views. Studies on AMU were not found in our review. Survey respondents reported frequent use of quinolones, followed by tetracyclines, nitrofurans, and aminoglycosides. Recommendations for future surveillance and public education efforts are presented.
Rapid assessment of influenza vaccine effectiveness: analysis of an internet-based cohort
Authors: EAMES K. T. D. , BROOKS-POLLOCK E. , PAOLOTTI D. , PEROSA M. , GIOANNINI C. , EDMUNDS W. J.
Published: September 2011

The effectiveness of influenza vaccination programmes is seldom known during an epidemic. We developed an internet-based system to record influenza-like symptoms and response to infection in a participating cohort. Using self-reports of influenza-like symptoms and of influenza vaccine history and uptake, we estimated vaccine effectiveness (VE) without the need for individuals to seek healthcare. We found that vaccination with the 2010 seasonal influenza vaccine was significantly protective against influenza-like illness (ILI) during the 2010–2011 influenza season (VE 52%, 95% CI 27–68). VE for individuals who received both the 2010 seasonal and 2009 pandemic influenza vaccines was 59% (95% CI 27–77), slightly higher than VE for those vaccinated in 2010 alone (VE 46%, 95% CI 9–68). Vaccinated individuals with ILI reported taking less time off work than unvaccinated individuals with ILI (3·4 daysvs. 5·3 days,P<0·001).
Introduction to the special issue on Prolog systems
Authors: DEMOEN BART , DE LA BANDA MARIA GARCIA
Published: September 2011

It has now been 40 years since the birth of the Prolog language and of its first implementation by A. Colmerauer and P. Roussel. Since then, a large number of Prolog systems have been implemented. While the core of the Prolog language has not changed much in these 40 years, Prolog systems have undergone an extraordinary evolution that stems from two main sources. One is the trend to extend Prolog to incorporate ideas from other language paradigms that have proved useful in real-world applications. This includes concurrency, parallelism, higher order predicates, object-oriented programming, Web interfaces, processing of large amounts of data, and flexible developer tools that enhance reliability and robustness through assertions. A second source of change is the exploration of ideas for which Prolog systems are uniquely suitable and that have led to the creation of new programming paradigms. This includes tabling, constraint logic programming, answer set programming, and probabilistic logic programming.
A complex relationship between calving glaciers and climate
Authors: Post Austin , O'Neel Shad , Motyka Roman J. , Streveler Gregory
Published: September 2011

Many terrestrial glaciers are sensitive indicators of past and present climate change as atmospheric temperature and snowfall modulate glacier volume. However, climate interpretations based on glacier behavior require careful selection of representative glaciers, as was recently pointed out for surging and debris‐covered glaciers, whose behavior often defies regional glacier response to climate [Yde and Paasche, 2010]. Tidewater calving glaciers (TWGs)—mountain glaciers whose termini reach the sea and are generally grounded on the seafloor—also fall into the category of non‐representative glaciers because the regional‐scale asynchronous behavior of these glaciers clouds their complex relationship with climate. TWGs span the globe; they can be found both fringing ice sheets and in high‐latitude regions of each hemisphere. TWGs are known to exhibit cyclic behavior, characterized by slow advance and rapid, unstable retreat, largely independent of short‐term climate forcing. This so‐called TWG cycle, first described by Post [1975], provides a solid foundation upon which modern investigations of TWG stability are built. Scientific understanding has developed rapidly as a result of the initial recognition of their asynchronous cyclicity, rendering greater insight into the hierarchy of processes controlling regional behavior. This has improved the descriptions of the strong dynamic feedbacks present during retreat, the role of the ocean in TWG dynamics, and the similarities and differences between TWG and ice sheet outlet glaciers that can often support floating tongues.
George C. Reid (1929–2011)
Authors: Rosenlof Karen H. , Crutzen Paul J. , Fehsenfeld Fred C. , Ennis Christine A.
Published: September 2011

George Colvin Reid, a pioneering solar and climate scientist, passed away at his home in Boulder, Colo., on 6 May 2011 after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer. George was 81. His legacy includes an impressive and prolific scientific career that spanned nearly 60 years. George was a world leader in atmospheric science with an exceptionally broad understanding of atmospheric phenomena encompassing both dynamics and chemistry. Early in his career, George wrote a number of influential papers with Harold Leinbach, Gordon Little, and Colin Hines on energetic particles in solar flares and the effect of such particles on the Earth's atmosphere. He and Harold Leinbach coined the often quoted phrase “polar cap absorption” and its acronym “PCA,” which have entered the lexicon of atmospheric science to describe the interaction of solar flares on the Earth's atmosphere at high latitudes. As his career progressed, his research interests expanded to include solar energetic particles, solar influences on the upper atmosphere, ion chemistry in the upper atmosphere, noctilucent clouds, the dynamics and chemistry of the middle atmosphere, the mechanisms of global climate change with emphasis on the tropics, and the influence of solar variability on the lower atmosphere and ocean temperatures.
FieldML
Authors: Miller Andrew , Nielsen Poul , Bradley Christopher , Britten Randall , Christie Richard , Hunter Peter , Little Caton
Published: September 2011

FieldML is an open format for storing and exchanging models containing field information. It is able to represent a wide variety of field value types, including scalar, vector, tensor, logical, and strings. Fields are defined over domains explicitly in terms of functions. Domains may be nested to form embedding hierarchies.
libSBML Status update
Authors: Keating Sarah
Published: September 2011

Overview of current status of libSBML development.
Identifiers.org/MIRIAM Registry annotation and cross-referencing framework
Authors: Juty Nick , Laibe Camille , Le Novere Nicolas
Published: September 2011

We describe the MIRIAM Registry, which forms a foundation layer database upon which persistent, unambiguous and perennial identifiers of data can be built. We describe the existing MIRIAM URI identifiers, and the newly minted resolvable, parallel forms of these identifiers which use Identifiers.org URLs.
Synthesis of star and H-shape polymersvia a combination of cobalt-mediated radical polymerization and nitrone-mediated radical coupling reactions
Authors: Detrembleur Christophe , Debuigne Antoine , Altintas Ozcan , Conradi Matthias , Wong Edgar H. H. , Jérôme Christine , Barner-Kowollik Christopher , Junkers Tanja
Published: September 2011

Via the combination of nitrone-mediated radical coupling and cobalt-mediated radical polymerization, mid-chain functionalized polymers are obtained that can be assembled into H-shaped polymers.
Magnetic properties of nanoparticles of cobalt ferrite at high magnetic field
Authors: Franco A. , Machado F. L. A. , Zapf V. S.
Published: September 2011

In this paper we report high magnetic field (− 140 ≤ H ≤ 140 kOe) magnetization data for cobalt ferrites (crystallites size ∼ 42 nm) for temperatures (T) varying from 5 to 340 K. The T-dependence for the cubic magnetocrystalline anisotropy constant K1 was determined by using the “law of approach” (LA) to saturation. The values of K1 were found to be substantially different from previously reported values obtained using the same procedure but with H up to 50 kOe. By properly choosing the quantum parameters we found a very good agreement between the values calculated by using the model proposed by Tachiki [Prog. Theor. Phys. 23, 1055 (1960)] and the K1 versus T data. For instance, the values of K1 measured (calculated) for 5 K and 340 K were 28.3 × 106 erg/cm3 (27.7 × 106 erg/cm3) and 7.4 × 106 erg/cm3 (6.8 × 106 erg/cm3), respectively. The values of the parameters used to fit the data in both magnetic field regimes were chosen based on cation distribution over the A and B-sites on the spinel structure of the nanoparticles.
Ion current rectification in a fluidic bipolar nanochannel with smooth junction
Authors: Pal Singh Kunwar , Kumari Kusum , Kumar Manoj
Published: September 2011

We have simulated bipolar nanochannel based fluidic diode for different values of junction sharpness. We can obtain significant ion current rectification even for a smooth junction between oppositely charged zones. The rectification increases with junction sharpness due to increase in unipolar character of electrolyte but a sharp junction is not a necessary condition for rectification. The ion current rectification increases with surface charge density due to increase in unipolar character of electrolyte and decrease in reverse ion current. The fluid enters (exits) the nanochannel through the centre from (to) the opposite directions for reverse (forward) bias due to fluid pressure.
On the stability of Be3: A benchmark complete active space self-consistent field + averaged quadratic coupled cluster study
Authors: Amaro-Estrada J. I. , Scemama A. , Caffarel M. , Ramírez-Solís A.
Published: September 2011

The optimized geometries and binding energies for the linear and triangular isomers of the beryllium trimer have been obtained through benchmark multireference averaged quadratic coupled cluster (AQCC) calculations using very large complete active space SCF (CASSCF) references (12 active electrons in 13 and 14 orbitals). Geometries were optimized with the cc-pV5Z basis, while the binding energies (including counterpoise correction) were obtained with the significantly larger aug-cc-pV5Z basis set. The binding energies (27.3 and 16.3 kcal/mol for the equilateral and linear isomers, respectively) are larger than the previous full CI benchmark values, while the corresponding Be-Be equilibrium distances of 4.101 and 4.088 a.u. are smaller. In view of the near-size consistency character of the CASSCF + AQCC method, the fact that all 12 electrons are fully correlated, the active reference space includes 14 orbitals, and the very large basis set used here, we propose to consider these results as reference data for Be3. Using the electron pair localization function obtained at the CASSCF(12,15) level, it is clearly illustrated that the 2p orbitals lying in the molecular plane play a dominant role in the bonding pattern for the equilateral isomer.
A metamaterial-inspired, electrically small rectenna for high-efficiency, low power harvesting and scavenging at the global positioning system L1 frequency
Authors: Zhu Ning , Ziolkowski Richard W. , Xin Hao
Published: September 2011

An electrically small rectenna was designed and tested at the global positioning system (GPS) L1 frequency (1.5754 GHz). The metamaterial-inspired near-field resonant parasitic antenna size (ka ∼ 0.467) and its direct match to the input impedance of the rectifying circuit decreased the whole size of the rectenna (ka ∼ 0.611). The simulated and measured rectifying efficiencies were, respectively, 75.7% and 79.6% when the input power to the rectifying circuit was 0.0 dBm (1 mW). The highest rectifying efficiency, 84.7%, was achieved at the GPS L1 frequency for a 3.0 dBm input power. The simulated and measured results are in good agreement.
Native oxidation and Cu-poor surface structure of thin film Cu2ZnSnS4 solar cell absorbers
Authors: Bär M. , Schubert B.-A. , Marsen B. , Krause S. , Pookpanratana S. , Unold T. , Weinhardt L. , Heske C. , Schock H.-W.
Published: September 2011

Air-exposed Cu2ZnSnS4 (“CZTS”) thin-film solar cell absorbers have been investigated by surface-sensitive x-ray photoelectron and x-ray-excited Auger electron spectroscopy, as well as by bulk-sensitive energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy. We find a native surface oxidation of (mainly) tin, but also (to a lesser extent) of zinc and sulfur as well as evidence for a Cu-poor region at the surface of the absorber, best described by a Cu-free Zn-Sn-S surface layer.
Development of a cold atmospheric pressure microplasma jet for freeform cell printing
Authors: Ayan Halim , Yildirim Eda D. , Pappas Daphne D. , Sun Wei
Published: September 2011

An atmospheric pressure non-thermal microplasma jet (Ø 50 μm) was developed for localized functionalization of various substrates, including polymers, to allow maskless freeform cell printing. The applied microplasma jet power ranged from 0.1 to 0.2 W without causing any damage to the polyethylene substrate. The surface characterization results demonstrate that the microplasma treatment locally changes the surface roughness and the concentration of oxygen-containing functional groups on the polyethylene surface. The biological characterization confirms that the osteoblast cells attach and survive on the plasma activated line while untreated surfaces show almost no attachment and viability.
Biology and population dynamics of the black-flanked rock-wallaby (Petrogale lateralis lateralis) in the central wheatbelt of Western Australia
Authors: Willers Nicole , Mawson Peter , Morris Keith , Bencini Roberta
Published: September 2011

Through a mark–recapture study, we explored aspects of the biology and population dynamics in the largest known population of the black-flanked rock-wallaby (Petrogale lateralis lateralis) at Mt Caroline Nature Reserve, in the Western Australian wheatbelt in 2007–10. The body condition index of males and females varied significantly over time but fluctuated similarly for both sexes. Males and females followed a pattern of best condition in early summer, declining through autumn and reaching their poorest condition in early spring. Body condition was closely related to rainfall in the period ~3–6 months before trapping sessions. Births occurred throughout the year with two reproductive peaks, in autumn and late winter/spring. Reproductive rates averaged over 90% annually, except in 2007 when they averaged 76%. Significantly fewer females bred during 2007, and those females were in poorer body condition. Females with a higher body condition index were more likely to reproduce (P = 0.003) but body condition did not influence the sex of offspring. The sex ratio of offspring did not differ significantly from parity and did not support either the Trivers–Willard or local resource competition hypotheses. This information should help to predict population trends and develop appropriate conservation strategies for this threatened species.
Diet selection by the brush-tailed rock-wallaby (Petrogale penicillata) in East Gippsland, Victoria
Authors: van Eeden Lily , Di Stefano Julian , Coulson Graeme
Published: September 2011

Resource selection by animals is assumed to have fitness benefits so quantifying resource selection can help determine suitable conditions for species persistence and be used to inform management plans. We studied diet selection by the ‘Critically Endangered’ Victorian brush-tailed rock-wallaby (Petrogale penicillata) by comparing proportions of plant functional groups consumed with their availability in the three remaining rock-wallaby colonies in East Gippsland, Victoria. We estimated availability using an adaptation of the point transect method, identifying 63 plant functional groups and their abundance within the foraging range. Using microhistological analysis of faecal pellets we determined diet composition at the resolution of plant functional groups: ferns, forbs, monocots, shrubs and trees. At all sites the plant functional groups constituting most of the diet were forbs, monocots and shrubs. However, diet composition and selection was different among the sites, particularly with regards to the consumption and selection of monocots, which appeared to be favoured at two sites, and of shrubs, which were favoured at the third site. Overall, the diet composition suggested that brush-tailed rock-wallabies consume a diverse range of food types. The results can be used to improve current management by increasing the availability of preferred food types, perhaps through targeted fire regimes, and to guide the selection of reintroduction sites.
Home-range studies in a reintroduced brush-tailed rock-wallaby (Petrogale penicillata) population in the Grampians National Park, Victoria
Authors: Molyneux Jenny , Taggart David A. , Corrigan Anthony , Frey Sean
Published: September 2011

In 2008, after 9 years of presumed local extinction, brush-tailed rock-wallabies (Petrogale penicillata) were reintroduced at Moora Moora Creek in the Grampians National Park, western Victoria. Since little is known about this species in Victoria, the reintroduction presented an important opportunity to gain information on the species’ ecology. Radio-tracking was undertaken and home range determined for three individuals released 11 months before this study and a further five individuals that were released at the commencement of the study in October 2009. Home-range size showed little variation amongst individuals, with a mean overall home range of 26 ha (±1.69, s.e.) and a mean core home range of 2.5 ha (±0.24, s.e.). Newly reintroduced individuals showed higher levels of association with wallabies from the same release and greater site fidelity when known conspecifics were close. Within 5 months of release, newly reintroduced animals showed home ranges similar in both size and distribution to those of animals released 11 months prior.
Status of warru (Petrogale lateralis MacDonnell Ranges race) in the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara Lands of South Australia. 1. Distribution and decline
Authors: Ward Matthew J. , Urban Roman , Read John L. , Dent Anika , Partridge Thalie , Clarke Amber , van Weenen Jason
Published: September 2011

Surveys for warru (Petrogale lateralis MacDonnell Ranges race) were conducted in targeted areas of the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands in order to clarify the distribution and status of the taxon in South Australia. Presence was determined by animal sightings or fresh scats. The study identified extant warru sites adjacent to known colonies in the Musgrave and Tomkinson Ranges, indicating that, in both locations, warru probably occur as larger metapopulations. The study highlighted that warru has disappeared from 93% of its former range across South Australia, and from 88% of its stronghold in the APY Lands. Accounting for recent information on population dynamics, this study has confirmed that warru are ‘Endangered’ in South Australia, and a more thorough assessment of the race’s current national distribution and status is required.
Status of warru (Petrogale lateralis MacDonnell Ranges race) in the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara Lands of South Australia. 2. Population dynamics
Authors: Ward Matthew J. , Ruykys Laura , van Weenen Jason , de Little Siobhan , Dent Anika , Clarke Amber , Partridge Thalie
Published: September 2011

The population dynamics of warru (Petrogale lateralis MacDonnell Ranges race) were studied in the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara Lands, South Australia, in order to inform management and better understand the race’s conservation ecology. Mark–recapture between 2005 and 2010 at the three largest known remaining colonies, followed by POPAN modelling, indicated that population sizes were 23 at New Well and 24 at Alalka in the Musgrave Ranges, and 14 at Kalka in the Tomkinson Ranges. Taking into account recent survey results, the study confirmed that warru are ‘Endangered’ in South Australia. However, there is potential for the recovery of the race, with high average reproductive rates (in the Musgrave Ranges >90% of reproductively active females had pouch young), even sex ratios and relatively high adult survivorship (>75%). Juvenile survival (51%), however, was significantly lower than that of adults. Given that red fox (Vulpes vulpes) numbers are low at these sites, this is possibly due to predation by feral cats (Felis catus), although this needs further investigation. Juvenile survival was also positively correlated with winter rainfall, possibly indicating that access to water is important during the drier winter months. In light of these observations, it is proposed that management of remaining warru colonies focus on cat control and consider providing access to free water during winter, as well as addressing landscape-scale threats such as wildfire and the spread of exotic plants.