bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Observations of volatile organic compounds during ARCTAS – Part 1: Biomass burning emissions and plume enhancements
Authors: Hornbrook R. S. , Blake D. R. , Diskin G. S. , Fuelberg H. E. , Meinardi S. , Mikoviny T. , Sachse G. W. , Vay S. A. , Weinheimer A. J. , Wiedinmyer C. , Wisthaler A. , Hills A. , Riemer D. D. , Apel E. C.
Published: May 2011

Abstract. Mixing ratios of a large number of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were observed by the Trace Organic Gas Analyzer (TOGA) on board the NASA DC-8 as part of the Arctic Research of the Composition of the Troposphere from Aircraft and Satellites (ARCTAS) field campaign. Many of these VOCs were observed concurrently by one or both of two other VOC measurement techniques on board the DC-8: proton-transfer-reaction mass spectrometry (PTR-MS) and whole air canister sampling (WAS). A comparison of these measurements to the data from TOGA indicates good agreement for the majority of co-measured VOCs. The ARCTAS study, which included both spring and summer deployments, provided opportunities to sample a large number of biomass burning (BB) plumes with origins in Asia, California and Central Canada, ranging from very recent emissions to plumes aged one week or more. For this analysis, identified BB plumes were grouped by flight, source region and, in some cases, time of day, generating 40 individual plume groups, each consisting of one or more BB plume interceptions. Normalized excess mixing ratios (EMRs) to CO were determined for each of the 40 plume groups for up to 19 different VOCs or VOC groups, many of which show significant variability, even within relatively fresh plumes. This variability demonstrates the importance of assessing BB plumes both regionally and temporally, as emissions can vary from region to region, and even within a fire over time. Comparisons with literature confirm that variability of EMRs to CO over an order of magnitude for many VOCs is consistent with previous observations. However, this variability is often diluted in the literature when individual observations are averaged to generate an overall regional EMR from a particular study. Previous studies give the impression that emission ratios are generally consistent within a given region, and this is not necessarily the case, as our results show. For some VOCs, earlier assumptions may lead to significant under-prediction of emissions in fire emissions inventories. Notably, though variable between plumes, observed EMRs of individual light alkanes are highly correlated within BB emissions. Using the NCAR master mechanism chemical box model initialized with concentrations based on two observed scenarios, i.e., fresh Canadian BB and fresh Californian BB, both plumes are expected to experience primarily decreases in oxygenated VOCs during the first 2.5 days, such that any production in the plumes of these compounds is less than the chemical loss. Comparisons of the modeled EMRs to the observed EMRs from BB plumes estimated to be three days in age or less indicate overall good agreement and, for most compounds, no significant difference between BB plumes in these two regions.
Evaluation of a three-dimensional chemical transport model (PMCAMx) in the European domain during the EUCAARI May 2008 campaign
Authors: Fountoukis C. , Racherla P. N. , Denier van der Gon H. A. C. , Polymeneas P. , Haralabidis P. E. , Wiedensohler A. , Pilinis C. , Pandis S. N.
Published: May 2011

Abstract. PMCAMx-2008, a detailed three dimensional chemical transport model (CTM), was applied to Europe to simulate the mass concentration and chemical composition of particulate matter (PM) during May 2008. The model includes a state-of-the-art organic aerosol module which is based on the volatility basis set framework treating both primary and secondary organic components to be semivolatile and photochemically reactive. The model performance is evaluated against high time resolution aerosol mass spectrometer (AMS) ground and airborne measurements. Overall, organic aerosol is predicted to account for 32% of total PM1 at ground level during May 2008, followed by sulfate (30%), crustal material and sea-salt (14%), ammonium (13%), nitrate (7%), and elemental carbon (4%). The model predicts that fresh primary OA (POA) is a small contributor to organic PM concentrations in Europe during late spring, and that oxygenated species (oxidized primary and biogenic secondary) dominate the ambient OA. The Mediterranean region is the only area in Europe where sulfate concentrations are predicted to be much higher than the OA, while organic matter is predicted to be the dominant PM1 species in Central and Northern Europe. The comparison of the model predictions with the ground measurements in four measurement stations is encouraging. The model reproduces more than 94% of the daily averaged data and more than 87% of the hourly data within a factor of 2 for PM1 OA. The model tends to predict relatively flat diurnal profiles for PM1 OA in many areas, both rural and urban, in agreement with the available measurements. The model performance against the high time resolution airborne measurements at multiple altitudes and locations is as good as its performance against the ground level hourly measurements. There is no evidence of missing sources of OA aloft over Europe during this period.
Multiple-sulfur isotope effects during photolysis of carbonyl sulfide
Authors: Lin Y. , Sim M. S. , Ono S.
Published: May 2011

Abstract. Laboratory experiments were carried out to determine sulfur isotope effects during ultraviolet photolysis of carbonyl sulfide (OCS) to carbon monoxide (CO) and elemental sulfur (S0). The OCS gas at 3.7 to 501 mbar was irradiated with or without a N2 bath gas using a 150 W Xe arc lamp. Sulfur isotope ratios for the product S0 and residual OCS were analyzed by an isotope ratio mass-spectrometer with SF6 as the analyte gas. The isotope effect after correction for the reservoir effects is −6.8 ‰ for the ratio 34S/32S, where product S0 is depleted in heavy isotopes. The magnitude of the overall isotope effect is not sensitive to the addition of N2 but increases to −9.5 ‰ when radiation of λ >285 nm is used. The measured isotope effect reflects that of photolysis as well as the subsequent sulfur abstraction (from OCS) reaction. The magnitude of isotope effects for the abstraction reaction is estimated by transition state theory to be between −18.9 and −3.1 ‰ for 34S which gives the photolysis isotope effect as −10.5 to +5.3 ‰. The measured isotope effects are found to be δ33S/δ34S = 0.534±0.005 and δ36S/δ34S = 1.980±0.021. These values are largely mass-dependent but statistically differ from canonical values for mass-dependent fractionation of 0.515 and 1.90, respectively. The result demonstrates that the OCS photolysis may not produce large isotope effect of more than about 10 \\permil, and can be the major source of background stratospheric sulfate aerosol (SSA) during volcanic quiescence.
Local patterns and trends of the Standard Precipitation Index in southern Portugal (1940–1999)
Authors: Costa A. C.
Published: May 2011

Abstract. This paper analyzes the yearly changes in precipitation from 1940 to 1999 on local and regional scales over the southern region of continental Portugal, which has large areas threatened by desertification. The Standard Precipitation Index (SPI) time series with the 12-month time scale is calculated for 43 meteorological stations. A geostatistical approach is used to evaluate the temporal dynamics of the spatial patterns of precipitation. The spatial homogeneity of the SPI is evaluated for each decade. Afterwards, a geostatistical simulation algorithm (direct sequential simulation) is used to produce 100 equiprobable maps of the SPI for each year. This gridded data set (6000 maps with 800 m × 800 m grid cells) is then used to produce yearly scenarios of the SPI from 1940 to 1999, and uncertainty evaluations of the produced scenarios. The linear trend of SPI values over the sixty years period is calculated at each grid cell of the scenarios' maps using a nonparametric estimator. Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney one-sided tests are used to compare the local median of the SPI in 1940/1969 with its median in 1970/1999. Results show that moderate drought conditions occur frequently over the study region, except in the northwest coast. Severe drought frequency patterns are found in areas of the centre and southeast regions. A significant trend towards drying occurs in the centre region and in the northeast. Considering the amount of water consumption and irrigation already required in some municipalities, water shortage due to drought is a viable threat in most of the Alentejo region if those local trends persist.
Long-term changes in rainfall and tropical cyclone activity over South and Southeast Asia
Authors: Takahashi H. G.
Published: May 2011

Abstract. Long-term changes in rainfall and associated tropical cyclone (TC) activity in transition seasons between the wet and dry seasons in South and Southeast Asia, namely boreal spring and fall, were examined, using gridded rainfall, TC tracks, and reanalysis datasets, the focus of discussion being the long-term changes in coastal regions. It was found that long-term changes in rainfall during the transition seasons in South and Southeast Asia were closely associated with those in TC activity over the north Indian Ocean and South China Sea. Rainfall in May increased in the last 40 years over and around Myanmar, which indicates an earlier monsoon onset over the western Indochina Peninsula. Rainfall over and around northern Vietnam also increased in the last 40 years during October, which is known as the monsoon retreat period. These increases were associated with the long-term changes in TC activity. Furthermore, although linear trends have been previously suggested, monotonically increasing or decreasing trends in these long-term changes were not found over the last 60 years.
Smart management and irrigation demand monitoring in Cyprus, using remote sensing and water resources simulation and optimization
Authors: Papadavid G. , Hadjimitsis D. , Fedra K. , Michaelides S.
Published: May 2011

Abstract. This paper presents a research project which integrates technological tools for developing a complete system for monitoring and determining irrigation demand on a systematic basis in Cyprus. Such tools are multi-spectral remotely sensed data dynamic water budget simulation and optimization, crop evapotranspiration (ETc) models and micro-sensor technology. The main aim is to estimate ETc in Cyprus and, furthermore, to undertake the required measures for an effective irrigation water management in the future. Evapotranspiration is difficult to determine since it combines various meteorological and field parameters while in literature quite many different models for estimating ETc are put forward. The proposed wireless sensor network acts as a monitoring tool for providing measurements of the necessary parameters: meteorological, climatic data and other auxiliary parameters required by the irrigation model in order to determine the irrigation demand. Reflectance is determined directly from satellite images. Finally, using the WaterWare irrigation software, irrigation scheduling is planned for the area of interest in Paphos, Cyprus. This area is located at almost sea level and is characterized by mild micro-climate. The results of the paper refer to year 2009 and show the daily water requirements of the specific crop in study.
Intercomparison of atmospheric water vapor soundings from the differential absorption lidar (DIAL) and the solar FTIR system on Mt. Zugspitze
Authors: Vogelmann H. , Sussmann R. , Trickl T. , Borsdorff T.
Published: May 2011

Abstract. We present an intercomparison of three years of measurements of integrated water vapor (IWV) performed by the mid-infrared solar FTIR (Fourier Transform Infra-Red) instrument on the summit of Mt. Zugspitze (2964 m a.s.l.) and by the nearby near-infrared differential absorption lidar (DIAL) at the Schneefernerhaus research station (2675 m a.s.l.). The solar FTIR was shown to be one of the most accurate and precise IWV sounders in recent work (Sussmann et al., 2009) and is taken as the reference here. By calculating the FTIR-DIAL correlation (22 min coincidence interval, 15 min integration time) we derive an almost ideal slope of 0.996 (10), a correlation coefficient of R = 0.99, an IWV intercept of −0.039 (42) mm (−1.2 % of the mean), and a bias of −0.052 (26) mm (−1.6 % of the mean) from the scatter plot. By selecting a subset of coincidences with an optimum temporal and spatial matching between DIAL and FTIR, we obtain a conservative estimate of the precision of the DIAL in measuring IWV which is better than 0.1 mm (3.2 % of the mean). We found that for a temporal coincidence interval of 22 min the difference in IWV measured by these two systems is dominated by the volume mismatch (horizontal distance: 680 m). The outcome from this paper is twofold: (1) the IWV soundings by FTIR and DIAL agree very well in spite of the differing wavelength regions with different spectroscopic line parameters and retrieval algorithms used. (2) In order to derive an estimate of the precision of state-of-the-art IWV sounders from intercomparison experiments, it is necessary to use a temporal matching on time scales shorter than 10 min and a spatial matching on the 100-m scale.
A structure generator for modelling the initial sediment distribution of an artificial hydrologic catchment
Authors: Maurer T. , Schneider A. , Gerke H. H.
Published: May 2011

Abstract. Artificially-created hydrological catchments are characterized by sediment structures from technological construction processes that can potentially be important for modelling of flow and transport and for understanding initial soil and ecosystem development. The subsurface spatial structures of such catchments have not yet been sufficiently explored and described. Our objective was to develop a structure generator programme for modelling the 3-D spatial sediment distribution patterns depending on the technical earth-moving and deposition processes. For the development, the artificially-constructed hydrological catchment "Chicken Creek" located in Lower Lusatia, Germany, served as an example. The structure generator describes 3-D technological sediment distributions at two scales: (i) for a 2-D-vertical cross-section, texture and bulk density distributions are generated within individual spoil cones that result from mass dumping, particle segregation, and compaction and (ii) for the whole catchment area, the spoil cones are horizontally arranged along trajectories of mass dumping controlled by the belt stacker-machine relative to the catchment's clay layer topography. The generated 3-D texture and bulk density distributions are interpolated and visualized as a gridded 3-D-volume body using 3-D computer-aided design software. The generated subsurface sediment distribution for the Chicken Creek catchment was found to correspond to observed patterns although still without any calibration. Spatial aggregation and interpolation in the gridded volume body modified the generated distributions towards more uniform (unimodal) distributions and lower values of the standard deviations. After incorporating variations and pedotransfer approaches, generated sediment distributions can be used for deriving realizations of the 3-D hydraulic catchment structure.
Debris-flow activity in abandoned channels of the Manival torrent reconstructed with LiDAR and tree-ring data
Authors: Lopez Saez J. , Corona C. , Stoffel M. , Gotteland A. , Berger F. , Liébault F.
Published: May 2011

Abstract. Hydrogeomorphic processes are a major threat in many parts of the Alps, where they periodically damage infrastructure, disrupt transportation corridors or even cause loss of life. Nonetheless, past torrential activity and the analysis of areas affected during particular events remain often imprecise. It was therefore the purpose of this study to reconstruct spatio-temporal patterns of past debris-flow activity in abandoned channels on the forested cone of the Manival torrent (Massif de la Chartreuse, French Prealps). A Light Detecting and Ranging (LiDAR) generated Digital Elevation Model (DEM) was used to identify five abandoned channels and related depositional forms (lobes, lateral levees) in the proximal alluvial fan of the torrent. A total of 156 Scots pine trees (Pinus sylvestris L.) with clear signs of debris flow events was analyzed and growth disturbances (GD) assessed, such as callus tissue, the onset of compression wood or abrupt growth suppression. In total, 375 GD were identified in the tree-ring samples, pointing to 13 debris-flow events for the period 1931–2008. While debris flows appear to be very common at Manival, they have only rarely propagated outside the main channel over the past 80 years. Furthermore, analysis of the spatial distribution of disturbed trees contributed to the identification of four patterns of debris-flow routing and led to the determination of three preferential breakout locations. Finally, the results of this study demonstrate that the temporal distribution of debris flows did not exhibit significant variations since the beginning of the 20th century.
Linking rock fabric to fibrous mineralisation: a basic tool for the asbestos hazard
Authors: Vignaroli G. , Rossetti F. , Belardi G. , Billi A.
Published: May 2011

Abstract. In recent years, many studies have addressed the effect on human health caused by asbestos exposures. As asbestos is a group of fibrous minerals that mainly occurs in mafic and ultramafic rocks (ophiolitic sequences), a close relationship between asbestos occurrence and the geological history of host rocks should be expected. By reviewing the existing literature and presenting characteristic examples, it is proposed a direct correspondence exists between the presence of fibrous minerals in ophiolites and the rock fabric systematics due to the combined activity of deformation, metamorphism/metasomatism, and rock/fluid interaction. Understanding the geological factors that may be at the origin of the nucleation/growth of fibrous minerals constitutes a necessary requirement for developing a methodological and analytical procedure to evaluate asbestos hazard (AH) in the natural prototype (ophiolitic rocks). A parameterisation of the AH in function of the main geological processes that produce the rock fabric systematics in different tectonic/geodynamic settings is discussed. A geological multidisciplinary approach (based on geological-structural field evidence combined with textural, mineralogical, petrological, and geochemical investigations) is proposed as the prerequisite for the evaluation of AH in natural environments. This approach, in particular, can provide a robust basis to formulate a procedural protocol finalised to the mitigation of asbestos effects in environments where these effects are still a real threat.
Las carreras políticas de los jefes de gobierno regionales en España, Francia y el Reino Unido (1980-2010)
Authors: Botella Coral Joan , Rodríguez Teruel Juan , Barberá Aresté Oscar , Barrio Astrid
Published: May 2011

El objetivo de este trabajo es conocer los efectos de la descentralizaciónpolítica en la élite política regional. Nos preguntamos si se estáproduciendo una bifurcación respecto a la élite nacional, de tal modoque se manifi este un predominio de carreras locales o regionales frentea carreras nacionales. Para ello, realizamos una descripción de las carreraspolíticas de los jefes de gobiernos regionales de España, Franciay Reino Unido y establecemos una comparación entre los tres países yentre períodos de tiempo. Los datos apuntan la existencia de modelosde carrera diversos, en los que las trayectorias local y nacional tiendena disociarse, creando cursus honorum distintos del tradicional. El casoespañol es donde mejor se observa la aparición de carreras territorialesasociadas a las nuevas instituciones regionales.
La calidad democrática. Una propuesta para su medición por expertos
Authors: Escobar Mercado Modesto
Published: May 2011

En este artículo se propone una escala para la evaluación de la democraciapor parte de los expertos. Su punto de partida es la auditoríademocrática que realiza el Human Rights Centre de la Universidad deEssex (UK), basada en cinco dimensiones o esferas: ciudadanía, leyes yderechos; representación política; gobernabilidad y rendición de cuentas;sociedad civil, y aspectos internacionales. Para su validación, laescala, compuesta por 57 enunciados, ha sido aplicada a una muestravoluntaria de más de un centenar de expertos en dos años consecutivos.A través de análisis factoriales exploratorios y confi rmatorios sehan descubierto otras dimensiones latentes en la evaluación del sistemaespañol y se ha propuesto una versión reducida de 14 enunciadospara su aplicación en cuestionarios dirigidos a la población general.Finalmente se evalúa la validez y la fi abilidad con resultados altamentepositivos.
Efeito do laser de baixa intensidade no trauma agudo medular - Estudo Piloto
Authors: Abreu Lorrine Maria , Batista Luzianna Valiati , Pereira Graziella Cristiane Lopes , Fonseca Letícia Alves , Kerppers Ivo Ilvan , Oliveira Claudia Santos
Published: May 2011

Objetivo: Analisar os efeitos do laser de baixa intensidade sobre a regeneração de células do sistema nervoso central, após lesão medular traumática. Métodos: Foram utilizados 20 ratos wistars, divididos em cinco grupos. Foi lesionada, por meio de cirurgia, a região de T8, expondo as meninges e ocasionando um trauma medular compressivo com a queda de um peso de 39 g que comprimiu a medula espinhal. A laserterapia foi aplicada sobre a dimensão da ferida suturada, por um período de 21 dias, em dois animais por grupo, sendo X1 o grupo controle; X2 aplicação de 4J/cm2; X3 aplicação de 10 J/cm2; X4 aplicação de 15 J/cm2 e X5 aplicação de 20 J/cm2).. Resultados: Na análise de células observou-se que todas apresentavam 75% de linfócitos na fase aguda, a presença de neutrófilos em 75% nos grupos X1 e X5, enquanto nos grupos X2 e X3, 25% de células inflamatórias. Conclusão: Constatou-se que a aplicação de laserterapia é um método não invasivo que pode auxiliar na resolução do processo inflamatório e edematoso na lesão medular, prevenindo sequelas maiores decorrentes do trauma.
Isolation and Expansion of Regionally Defined Human Glioblastoma Cells In Vitro
Authors: Pistollato Francesca , Persano Luca , Puppa Alessandro Della , Rampazzo Elena , Basso Giuseppe
Published: May 2011

This unit describes a protocol for the surgical collection, isolation, and expansion of regionally defined human glioblastoma multiforme (GBM)–derived cells. Given the important role played by microenvironmental hypoxia in defining cell phenotype and molecular signaling activation, it is important to distinguish between tumor tissues that were originally localized within the partially necrotic tumor core and those located along the peripheral and vascularized areas. The procedures for enzymatic dissociation of GBM tissues and cell culturing under hypoxia described here are optimized to obtain an efficient single‐cell suspension and subsequent growth, in an effort to avoid the spontaneous induction of cell commitment normally occurring in long‐term cell culture. Curr. Protoc. Stem Cell Biol. 17:3.4.1‐3.4.10. © 2011 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Visualization and Identification of Fatty Acylated Proteins Using Chemical Reporters
Authors: Yount Jacob S. , Zhang Mingzi M. , Hang Howard C.
Published: May 2011

Protein fatty acylation, the covalent addition of a lipid chain at specific amino acids, changes the inherent hydrophobicity of a protein, often targeting it to cellular membrane compartments and regulating protein activity, stability, and interactions. Fatty acylation can be analyzed using chemical reporters that mimic natural lipids and contain bioorthogonal chemical handles, allowing them to be reacted with detection tags such as fluorophores or affinity tags. Our laboratory has used alkynyl‐chemical reporters of protein myristoylation, S‐palmitoylation, prenylation, and acetylation to provide robust, nonradioactive methods for examining the acylation states of full cellular proteomes and individual proteins of interest by (1) metabolically incorporating these chemical reporters into proteins in living cells; (2) selectively reacting the labeled proteins in cell lysates with azido‐rhodamine via click chemistry, and globally visualizing them with fluorescence gel scanning; (3) analyzing protein acylation on individual candidate proteins using immunoprecipitation, click chemistry, and fluorescence gel scanning; and (4) identifying novel fatty acylated proteins by reacting chemical reporter–labeled proteins with azido‐biotin via click chemistry and selective retrieval using streptavidin beads. This is particularly valuable for the examining protein S‐palmitoylation, which does not occur in readily predicted consensus amino acid motifs. Curr. Protoc. Chem. Biol. 3:81‐97 © 2011 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Growing and Analyzing Biofilms in Flow Chambers
Authors: Tolker‐Nielsen Tim , Sternberg Claus
Published: May 2011

This unit describes the setup of flow chamber systems for the study of microbial biofilms, and methods for the analysis of structural biofilm formation. Use of flow chambers allows direct microscopic investigation of biofilm formation. The biofilms in flow chambers develop under hydrodynamic conditions, and the environment can be carefully controlled and easily changed. The protocols in this unit include construction of the flow chamber and the bubble trap, assembly and sterilization of the flow chamber system, inoculation of the flow chambers, running of the system, image capture and analysis, and disassembly and cleaning of the system. In addition, embedding and fluorescent in situ hybridization of flow chamber–grown biofilms are addressed. Curr. Protoc. Microbiol. 21:1B.2.1‐1B.2.17. © 2011 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Whole‐Body Imaging of Infection Using Bioluminescence
Authors: Kong Ying , Shi Yanlin , Chang Mihee , Akin Ali R. , Francis Kevin P. , Zhang Ning , Troy Tamara L. , Yao Hequn , Rao Jianghong , Cirillo Suat L. G. , Cirillo Jeffrey D.
Published: May 2011

Bioluminescence imaging is a powerful technique to visualize and monitor biological processes in numerous systems. This unit describes two strategies for bioluminescence imaging that can be used to study bacterial infection in mice. One method is to express a luciferase gene in the bacteria; the second method is to use bacteria that express both a luciferase and β‐lactamase along with a substrate containing caged luciferin, which is released by β‐lactamase hydrolysis and reacts with luciferase to generate light. For both strategies, bioluminescent signals are imaged using an IVIS live animal imaging system (Caliper Life Sciences). The bioluminescence images are analyzed to localize bioluminescent bacteria, quantify signal, and determine the wavelengths of the signals produced. The correlation of bacterial numbers with signal intensity in vivo can be determined, allowing a quantitative measure of bacterial numbers in mice in real time. Methods are described in detail to facilitate successful application of these emerging technologies in nearly any experimental system. Curr. Protoc. Microbiol. 21:2C.4.1‐2C.4.17. © 2011 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Production of Myxoma Virus Gateway Entry and Expression Libraries and Validation of Viral Protein Expression
Authors: Smallwood Sherin E. , Rahman Masmudur M. , Werden Steven J. , Martino Maria Fernanda , McFadden Grant
Published: May 2011

Invitrogen's Gateway technology is a recombination‐based cloning method that allows for rapid transfer of numerous open reading frames (ORFs) into multiple plasmid vectors, making it useful for diverse high‐throughput applications. Gateway technology has been utilized to create an ORF library for Myxoma virus (MYXV), a member of the Poxviridae family of DNA viruses. MYXV is the prototype virus for the genus Leporipoxvirus, and is pathogenic only in European rabbits. MYXV replicates exclusively in the host cell cytoplasm, and its genome encodes 171 ORFs. A number of these ORFs encode proteins that interfere with or modulate host defense mechanisms, particularly the inflammatory responses. Furthermore, MYXV is able to productively infect a variety of human cancer cell lines and is being developed as an oncolytic virus for treating human cancers. MYXV is therefore an excellent model for studying poxvirus biology, pathogenesis, and host tropism, and a good candidate for ORFeome development. Curr. Protoc. Microbiol. 21:14A.2.1‐14A.2.29. © 2011 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Coronaviruses: Propagation, Quantification, Storage, and Construction of Recombinant Mouse Hepatitis Virus
Authors: Leibowitz Julian , Kaufman Gili , Liu Pinghua
Published: May 2011

The focus of this protocol is mouse hepatitis virus (MHV), with occasional references to other coronaviruses. Many of these protocols can be easily adapted to other coronaviruses. Protocols for propagating MHV in DBT and 17CL‐1 cells; the storage and titration of viral stocks; purification of MHV on sucrose gradients; and the generation of recombinant viruses by a cDNA assembly method and by targeted recombination will be presented. Protocols are also included for the propagation of DBT, 17CL‐1, and L2 cells used for growing and titrating MHV, and for the growth of BHK‐R cells and FCWF cells. The latter two cell lines are used for regenerating infectious MHV by an in vitro cDNA assembly protocol and by a targeted recombination protocol, respectively, allowing reverse genetic manipulation of these viruses. An additional protocol for the maintenance of the large plasmids used for generating recombinant MHVs will also be presented. Curr. Protoc. Microbiol. 21:15E.1.1‐15E.1.46. © 2011 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Enhanced Implicit Sequence Learning in College‐age Video Game Players and Musicians
Authors: Romano Bergstrom Jennifer C. , Howard James H. , Howard Darlene V.
Published: May 2011

We examined whether college‐age video game players and musicians are better than controls at implicit sequence learning in the Alternating Serial Reaction Time Task. People learn to use subtle sequence regularities to respond more accurately and quickly to predictable versus non‐predictable events. Although previous studies have shown experts' enhanced processing speed and perception, this is the first to demonstrate that people who regularly play video games or a musical instrument showed greater implicit sequence learning, suggesting that experience playing games or music may improve the efficiency with which people learn sequential regularities in the environment. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Interface Reactivity and Induced Phenomena during Sintering in a Model Steel/Cemented Carbide Bimaterial
Authors: Thomazic Aurélie , Pascal Céline , Chaix Jean‐Marc
Published: May 2011

Direct elaboration of a WC base cemented carbide/Fe base alloy model bimaterial by cosintering is studied. In this material, dramatic changes are observed for small modifications of the sintering temperature (20 °C) or the composition of the Fe base (+/− 0.1% C): overall shrinkage, macroscopic deformations, and binder fraction of the carbide material. This paper shows how these phenomena originate at the interface and then propagate inside the bulk. This example illustrates the need for taking into account chemical interaction at interfaces during cosintering of multimaterials, as these regions are thermodynamically far from equilibrium.
Additive‐Free Dispersion of Single‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes and Its Application for Transparent Conductive Films
Authors: Liu Wen‐Bin , Pei Songfeng , Du Jinhong , Liu Bilu , Gao Libo , Su Yang , Liu Chang , Cheng Hui‐Ming
Published: May 2011

A good dispersion of single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) in liquid media is a prerequisite to fulfill many of their applications. This contribution reports an efficient approach to additive‐free dispersion of SWCNTs with the aid of functionalized carbonaceous byproducts (CBs, e.g., amorphous carbon, carbon nanoparticles, and carbonaceous fragments) in SWCNT products. SWCNT bundles are treated by oleum intercalation and nitric acid oxidation in sequence, which leads to the selective functionalization of the CBs while the structure and properties of the SWCNTs are well preserved. These functionalized CBs can improve the subsequent dispersion of SWCNTs and the majority of SWCNTs in the suspension are present in small bundles or individually. Moreover, SWCNT transparent conductive films (TCFs) are fabricated by using these suspensions. The SWCNT TCFs obtained can achieve a low sheet resistance of 76 and 133 Ω sq−1, with optical transmittance of 82% and 90% at 550 nm, respectively.
Novel, Robust, and Versatile Bijels of Nitromethane, Ethanediol, and Colloidal Silica: Capsules, Sub‐Ten‐Micrometer Domains, and Mechanical Properties
Authors: Tavacoli Joe W. , Thijssen Job H. J. , Schofield Andrew B. , Clegg Paul S.
Published: May 2011

Bicontinuous, interfacially jammed emulsion gels (bijels) are a class of soft solid materials in which interpenetrating domains of two immiscible fluids are stabilized by an interfacial colloidal monolayer. Such structures form through the arrest of the spinodal decomposition of an initially single‐phase liquid mixture containing a colloidal suspension. With the use of hexalmethyldisilazane, the wetting character of silica colloids, ranging in size and dye content, can be modified for fabricating a novel bijel system comprising the binary liquid ethanediol–nitromethane. Unlike the preceding water‐lutidine based system, this bijel is stable at room temperature and its fabrication and resultant manipulation are comparatively straightforward. The new system has facilitated three advancements: firstly, we use sub 100 nm silica particles to stabilize the first bijel made from low molecular weight liquids that has domains smaller than ten micrometers. Secondly, our new and robust bijel permits qualitative rheological work which reveals the bijel to be significantly elastic and self healing whilst its domains are able to break, reform and locally rearrange. Thirdly, we encapsulate the ethanediol–nitromethane bijel in Pickering drops to form novel particle‐stabilized bicontinuous multiple emulsions that we christen bijel capsules. These emulsions are stimuli responsive – they liberate their contained materials in response to changes in temperature and solvency, and hence they show potential for controlled release applications.
Highly Efficient, Solution‐Processed, Single‐Layer, Electrophosphorescent Diodes and the Effect of Molecular Dipole Moment
Authors: Al‐Attar Hameed A. , Griffiths Gareth C. , Moore Tom N. , Tavasli Mustafa , Fox Mark A. , Bryce Martin R. , Monkman Andrew P.
Published: May 2011

A new family of highly soluble electrophosphorescent dopants based on a series of tris‐cyclometalated iridium(III) complexes (1–4) of 2‐(carbazol‐3‐yl)‐4/5‐R‐pyridine ligands with varying molecular dipole strengths have been synthesized. Highly efficient, solution‐processed, single‐layer, electrophosphorescent diodes utilizing these complexes have been prepared and characterized. The high triplet energy poly(9‐vinylcarbazole) PVK is used as a host polymer doped with 2‐(4‐biphenylyl)‐5‐(4‐tert‐butyl‐phenyl)‐1,3,4‐oxadiazole (PBD) for electron transport. Devices with a current efficiency of 40 cd A−1 corresponding to an EQE of 12% can thus be achieved. The effect of the type and position of the substituent (electron‐withdrawing group (CF3) and electron‐donating group (OMe)) on the molecular dipole moment of the complexes has been investigated. A correlation between the absorption strength of the singlet metal‐to‐ligand charge‐transfer (1MLCT) transition and the luminance spectral red shift as a function of solvent polarity is observed. The strength of the transition dipole moments for complexes 1–4 has also been obtained from TD‐DFT computations, and is found to be consistent with the observed molecular dipole moments of these complexes. The relatively long lifetime of the excitons of the phosphorescence (microseconds) compared to the charge‐carrier scattering time (less than nanoseconds), allows the transition dipole moment to be considered as a “quasi permanent dipole”. Therefore, the carrier mobility is sufficiently affected by the long‐lived transition dipole moments of the phosphorescent molecules, which are randomly oriented in the medium. The dopant dipoles cause positional and energetic disorder because of the locally modified polarization energy. Furthermore, the electron‐withdrawing group CF3 induces strong carrier dispersion that enhances the electron mobility. Therefore, the strong transition dipole moment in complexes 3 and 4 perturbs both electron and hole mobilities, yielding a reduction in exciton formation and an increase in the device dark current, thereby decreasing the device efficiency.
Gas phase reaction kinetics in boron fibre production
Authors: Fırat Fatih , Sezgi Naime A. , Özbelge Hilmi Ö. , Doğu Timur
Published: May 2011

In the production of boron fibres using the chemical vapor deposition (CVD) technique, boron deposition and dichloroborane formation reactions occurs simultaneously. Boron deposition reaction occurs at the surface, whereas the formation of dichloroborane is the result of both gas phase and surface reactions. A continuous stirred tank reactor (CSTR) type of reactor was designed to investigate the reaction kinetics and kinetic parameters in the gas phase reactions of boron trichloride and hydrogen. It was concluded that reaction rate of the product increased with an increase in the inlet concentration of both reactants (BCl3 and H2) and with an increase in the reactor temperature. While reaction order with respect to BCl3 was almost constant at about 0.5 at each temperature, reaction order with respect to hydrogen increased significantly at temperatures lower than 350°C. A general rate expression was derived for BHCl2 formation from BCl3 and hydrogen. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2012
Occupational asbestos exposure as a risk factor for laryngeal carcinoma in a population‐based case–control study from Germany
Authors: Ramroth Heribert , Ahrens Wolfgang , Dietz Andreas , Becher Heiko
Published: May 2011

Background

As several studies have identified asbestos exposure as an independent occupational risk factor for laryngeal cancer, the aim of our study was to confirm this association.

Methods

In a population‐based case–control study on laryngeal cancer in South‐West Germany occupational exposures and other risk factors were obtained by face‐to‐face interviews using a detailed standardized questionnaire covering the complete individual working history, supplemented by job‐specific questionnaires (JSQ) especially for selected jobs known to entail exposure to asbestos. Detailed exposure information was collected over a wide range of asbestos related jobs and branches and analyzed using different modeling strategies.

Results

Seventy‐three (28.4%) cases and 158 (20.5%) controls reported any exposure to asbestos. Elevated risk estimates for asbestos exposure were found. However, those became substantially reduced after adjustment for smoking and alcohol.

Conclusion

Moderately elevated risks for laryngeal cancer after exposure to asbestos were confirmed. Difficulties in the collection of adequate exposure data were demonstrated. Am. J. Ind. Med. 54:510–514, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Analysis of neurogranin (NRGN) in schizophrenia
Authors: Smith Rhodri Ll. , Knight Deborah , Williams Hywel , Dwyer Sarah , Richards Alex , Kirov George , O'Donovan Michael C. , Owen Michael J.
Published: May 2011

A recent study reported a genome‐wide significant association between schizophrenia and rs12807809—a SNP located approximately 3 kbp upstream of the neurogranin gene (NRGN). We sought to determine if (a) NRGN contains common exonic variants or variants affecting expression (eQTLs) that could account for the association with rs12807809 and (b) there exist rare non‐synonymous highly penetrant variants that could potentially confer high risk of schizophrenia. We sequenced all four exons of NRGN in a screening set of 14 individuals but found no novel common polymorphisms. We additionally sequenced the coding exons in up to 1,113 individuals (699 cases) but this revealed only a singleton‐coding variant in exon 2 (G246T leading to Gly‐55 → Val amino acid change) in which prediction of function analysis suggested is likely to be benign. Finally, analysis of a brain expression dataset of at least 130 individuals did not identify any eQTLs that were correlated with associated SNP rs12807809 following correction for multiple testing. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Social play behavior in infant Sichuan snub‐nosed monkeys (Rhinopithecus roxellana) in Qinling Mountains, China
Authors: Li Yinhua , Guo Songtao , Ji Weihong , He Gang , Wang Xiaowei , Li Baoguo
Published: May 2011

We describe the development of social play behavior and assess factors influencing the development of play in infant Sichuan snub‐nosed monkeys (Rhinopithecus roxellana). Infant snub‐nosed monkeys began to exhibit social play at 3 months of age, when they spent an average 0.89% of time engaging in this behavior (range: 0.7–1.12%). At 6 months of age, there was a significant increase in the proportion of time spent in social play, averaging 9.78% of observation time (range: 4.92–17.08%). However, from 7 to 9 months of age during the winter, social play decreased gradually before rising again from 10 months of age in the spring. Play behavior in infant snub‐nosed monkeys is influenced by environmental temperature. Males were observed to play more than females, although further data on this are required. Social rank did not influence the social play of wild Sichuan snub‐nosed monkey infants. Am. J. Primatol. 73:845–851, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Use of linear solvation energy relationships for chromatographic retention of seven solutes in different mobile phases
Authors: Han Dandan , Tian Minglei , Row Kyung Ho
Published: May 2011

The linear solvation energy relationship (LSER) model was utilized to delineate which specific intermolecular interactions are responsible for changes in retention for a variety of well‐characterized analytes when different additives were used in reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography. The effects of additives such as organic [sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB)] and inorganic [sodium dihydrogen phosphate (NaH2PO4), disodium hydrogen phosphate (Na2HPO4)] salts with 30–50% (v/v) acetonitrile (ACN) on the LSER coefficients were studied. The ability of the LSER model to account for the chemical interactions underlying solute retention was demonstrated. LSER as a potential predictive tool can direct us to choose proper mobile phase additive to separate different kinds of compounds. Copyright © 2011 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Physical activity is associated with magnetic resonance imaging–based knee cartilage T2 measurements in asymptomatic subjects with and those without osteoarthritis risk factors
Authors: Hovis Keegan K. , Stehling Christoph , Souza Richard B. , Haughom Bryan D. , Baum Thomas , Nevitt Michael , McCulloch Charles , Lynch John A. , Link Thomas M.
Published: May 2011

Objective

To evaluate the association of exercise and knee‐bending activities with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)–based knee cartilage T2 relaxation times and morphologic abnormalities in asymptomatic subjects from the Osteoarthritis Initiative, with or without osteoarthritis (OA) risk factors.

Methods

We studied 128 subjects with knee OA risk factors and 33 normal control subjects ages 45–55 years, with a body mass index of 18–27 kg/m2 and no knee pain. Subjects were categorized according to exercise level, using the leisure activity component of the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly, and by self‐reported frequent knee‐bending activities. Two radiologists graded the cartilage of the right knee on MR images, using the Whole‐Organ MRI Score (WORMS). Cartilage was segmented, and compartment‐specific T2 values were calculated. Differences between the exercise groups and knee‐bending groups were determined using multiple linear and logistic regression models.

Results

Among subjects with risk factors for knee OA, light exercisers had lower T2 values compared with sedentary and moderate/strenuous exercisers. When the sexes were analyzed separately, female moderate/strenuous exercisers had higher T2 values compared with sedentary individuals and light exercisers. Subjects without risk factors displayed no significant differences in T2 values according to exercise level. However, frequent knee‐bending activities were associated with higher T2 values in both subjects with OA risk factors and those without OA risk factors and with more severe cartilage lesions in the group with risk factors.

Conclusion

In subjects at risk of knee OA, light exercise was associated with low T2 values, whereas moderate/strenuous exercise in women was associated with high T2 values. Higher T2 values and WORMS grades were also observed in frequent knee‐benders, suggesting greater cartilage degeneration in these individuals.
17β‐estradiol induces CD40 expression in dendritic cells via MAPK signaling pathways in a minichromosome maintenance protein 6–dependent manner
Authors: Xie Hao , Hua Chunyan , Sun Lin , Zhao Xiaoyin , Fan Hongye , Dou Huan , Sun Lingyun , Hou Yayi
Published: May 2011

Objective

The human immune system exhibits sexual dimorphism in autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Female sex hormones, including 17β‐estradiol, are strongly implicated in the gender bias in SLE. CD40 is a costimulatory molecule and plays a crucial role in modulating the immune response of effector cells. We have previously shown that 17β‐estradiol up‐regulated CD40 expression and altered minichromosome maintenance protein 6 (MCM6) gene expression in dendritic cells (DCs). The mechanism of the correlation between CD40 and MCM6 in the presence of 17β‐estradiol remains unknown. This study was undertaken to elucidate this mechanism and to explain the role of MCM6 in the gender bias in SLE.

Methods

Bone marrow–derived DCs transfected with small interfering RNA (siRNA) for MCM6 were treated with 17β‐estradiol in the absence or presence of CpG. The expression levels of costimulatory molecules, activity of MAPKs, and levels of MCM6 protein were measured. Moreover, the functions of DCs, including proliferation, apoptosis, endocytosis, and cytokine production, were analyzed. In addition, levels of messenger RNA for MCM6 were detected in DCs purified from SLE patients.

Results

Regardless of the presence or absence of CpG, 17β‐estradiol induced CD40 expression via the activation of p38 and JNK, but not ERK. The activation of p38 and JNK enhanced MCM6 expression, which then induced CD40 expression. Suppression of MCM6 in DCs abolished the up‐regulation of 17β‐estradiol–induced CD40 expression. Importantly, MCM6 expression was significantly increased in SLE patients compared with healthy controls.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that 17β‐estradiol induces CD40 expression in DCs via p38 and JNK MAPKs in an MCM6‐dependent manner. MCM6 may be a critical mediator of sex‐based differences in autoimmune disease.