bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcriptional Profile of Tuberculosis Antigen–Specific T Cells Reveals Novel Multifunctional Features
Authors: Arlehamn Cecilia Lindestam , Seumois Gregory , Gerasimova Anna , Huang Charlie , Fu Zheng , Yue Xiaojing , Sette Alessandro , Vijayanand Pandurangan , Peters Bjoern
Published: August 2014

In latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) spread of the bacteria is contained by a persistent immune response, which includes CD4+ T cells as important contributors. In this study we show that TB-specific CD4+ T cells have a characteristic chemokine expression signature (CCR6+CXCR3+CCR4−), and that the overall number of these cells is significantly increased in LTBI donors compared with healthy subjects. We have comprehensively characterized the transcriptional signature of CCR6+CXCR3+CCR4− cells and found significant differences to conventional Th1, Th17, and Th2 cells, but no major changes between healthy and LTBI donors. CCR6+CXCR3+CCR4− cells display lineage-specific signatures of both Th1 and Th17 cells, but also have a unique gene expression program, including genes associated with susceptibility to TB, enhanced T cell activation, enhanced cell survival, and induction of a cytotoxic program akin to CTL cells. Overall, the gene expression signature of CCR6+CXCR3+CCR4− cells reveals characteristics important for controlling latent TB infections.
Potential Positive Effects of Pesticides Application on Sesamia inferens (Walker) (Lepidoptera: Insecta)
Authors: Yang Guo-Qing , Du Shang-Gen , Li Li , Jiang Li-Ben , Wu Jin-Cai
Published: August 2014

In China, the pink stem borer (PSB) Sesamia inferens (Walker) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) has become a rice pest in some rice-producing regions. The cause of this shift from secondary to major pest is unknown. The major purpose of this study was to examine the effect of five commonly used pesticides in rice fields on reproduction of PSB and on biochemical substances of rice plants. The results showed that the weight of pupae developed from 1st instar larvae treated with 2 mg/L triazophos and the number of eggs laid by emerged females from the treatment were significantly greater than those of the control, increasing by 26.2% and 47%, respectively. In addition, a nontarget insecticide, pymetrozine 100 mg/L, and a target insecticide, chlorantraniliprole 2 mg/L, stimulated reproduction of PSB. Biochemical measurement showed that foliar sprays of these pesticides resulted in significant reductions of contents of resistant substances, flavonoids and phenolic acids, in rice plants. For example, flavonoids and phenolic acids of rice plants treated with triazophos reduced by 48.5% and 22.4%, respectively, compared to the control. Therefore, we predicted that the application of some pesticides, eg triazophos and chlorantraniliprole, may be the cause of the increase in the population numbers of PSB in rice fields.
Sensitivity of simulated climate to latitudinal distribution of solar insolation reduction in solar radiation management
Authors: Modak A. , Bala G.
Published: August 2014

Abstract. Solar radiation management (SRM) geoengineering has been proposed as a potential option to counteract climate change. We perform a set of idealized geoengineering simulations using Community Atmosphere Model version 3.1 developed at the National Center for Atmospheric Research to investigate the global hydrological implications of varying the latitudinal distribution of solar insolation reduction in SRM methods. To reduce the solar insolation we have prescribed sulfate aerosols in the stratosphere. The radiative forcing in the geoengineering simulations is the net forcing from a doubling of CO2 and the prescribed stratospheric aerosols. We find that for a fixed total mass of sulfate aerosols (12.6 Mt of SO4), relative to a uniform distribution which nearly offsets changes in global mean temperature from a doubling of CO2, global mean radiative forcing is larger when aerosol concentration is maximum at the poles leading to a warmer global mean climate and consequently an intensified hydrological cycle. Opposite changes are simulated when aerosol concentration is maximized in the tropics. We obtain a range of 1 K in global mean temperature and 3% in precipitation changes by varying the distribution pattern in our simulations: this range is about 50% of the climate change from a doubling of CO2. Hence, our study demonstrates that a range of global mean climate states, determined by the global mean radiative forcing, are possible for a fixed total amount of aerosols but with differing latitudinal distribution. However, it is important to note that this is an idealized study and thus not all important realistic climate processes are modeled.
Testing long-term summer temperature reconstruction based on maximum density chronologies obtained by reanalysis of tree-ring data sets from northernmost Sweden and Finland
Authors: Matskovsky V. V. , Helama S.
Published: August 2014

Abstract. Here we analyse the maximum latewood density (MXD) chronologies of two published tree-ring data sets: one from Torneträsk region in northernmost Sweden (TORN; Melvin et al., 2013) and one from northern Fennoscandia (FENN; Esper et al., 2012). We paid particular attention to the MXD low-frequency variations to reconstruct summer (June–August, JJA) long-term temperature history. We used published methods of tree-ring standardization: regional curve standardization (RCS) combined with signal-free implementation. Comparisons with RCS chronologies produced using single and multiple (non-climatic) ageing curves (to be removed from the initial MXD series) were also carried out. We develop a novel method of standardization, the correction implementation of signal-free standardization, tailored for detection of pure low-frequency signal in tree-ring chronologies. In this method, the error in RCS chronology with signal-free implementation is analytically assessed and extracted to produce an advanced chronology. The importance of correction becomes obvious at lower frequencies as smoothed chronologies become progressively more correlative with correction implementation. Subsampling the FENN data to mimic the lower chronology sample size of TORN data shows that the chronologies bifurcate during the 7th, 9th, 17th and 20th centuries. We used the two MXD data sets to reconstruct summer temperature variations over the period 8 BC through AD 2010. Our new reconstruction shows multi-decadal to multi-centennial variability with changes in the amplitude of the summer temperature of 2.2 °C on average during the Common Era. Although the MXD data provide palaeoclimate research with a highly reliable summer temperature proxy, the bifurcating dendroclimatic signals identified in the two data sets imply that future research should aim at a more advanced understanding of MXD data on distinct issues: (1) influence of past population density variations on MXD production, (2) potential biases when calibrating differently produced MXD data to produce one proxy record, (3) influence of the biological age of MXD data when introducing young trees into the chronology over the most recent past and (4) possible role of waterlogging in MXD production when analysing tree-ring data of riparian trees.
Assessing the nonlinear response of fine particles to precursor emissions: development and application of an Extended Response Surface Modeling technique (ERSM v1.0)
Authors: Zhao B. , Wang S. X. , Fu K. , Xing J. , Fu J. S. , Jang C. , Zhu Y. , Dong X. Y. , Gao Y. , Wu W. J. , Hao J. M.
Published: August 2014

Abstract. An innovative Extended Response Surface Modeling technique (ERSM v1.0) is developed to characterize the nonlinear response of fine particles (PM2.5) to large and simultaneous changes of multiple precursor emissions from multiple regions and sectors. The ERSM technique is developed starting from the conventional Response Surface Modeling (RSM) technique; it first quantifies the relationship between PM2.5 concentrations and precursor emissions in a single region with the conventional RSM technique, and then assesses the effects of inter-regional transport of PM2.5 and its precursors on PM2.5 concentrations in the target region. We apply this novel technique with a widely used regional air quality model over the Yangtze River Delta (YRD) region of China, and evaluate the response of PM2.5 and its inorganic components to the emissions of 36 pollutant-region-sector combinations. The predicted PM2.5 concentrations agree well with independent air quality model simulations; the correlation coefficients are larger than 0.98 and 0.99, and the mean normalized errors are less than 1 and 2% for January and August, respectively. It is also demonstrated that the ERSM technique could reproduce fairly well the response of PM2.5 to continuous changes of precursor emission levels between zero and 150%. Employing this new technique, we identify the major sources contributing to PM2.5 and its inorganic components in the YRD region. The nonlinearity in the response of PM2.5 to emission changes is characterized and the underlying chemical processes are illustrated.
MEDEX: a general overview
Authors: Jansa A. , Alpert P. , Arbogast P. , Buzzi A. , Ivancan-Picek B. , Kotroni V. , Llasat M. C. , Ramis C. , Richard E. , Romero R. , Speranza A.
Published: August 2014

Abstract. The general objective of the international MEDiterranean EXperiment (MEDEX) was the better understanding and forecasting of cyclones that produce high impact weather in the Mediterranean. This paper reviews the motivation and foundation of MEDEX, the gestation, history and organisation of the project, as well as the main products and scientific achievements obtained from it. MEDEX obtained the approval of World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) and can be considered as framed within other WMO actions, such as the ALPine EXperiment (ALPEX), the Mediterranean Cyclones Study Project (MCP) and, to a certain extent, THe Observing System Research and Predictability EXperiment (THORPEX) and the HYdrological cycle in Mediterranean EXperiment (HyMeX). Through two phases (2000–2005 and 2006–2010), MEDEX has produced a specific database, with information about cyclones and severe or high impact weather events, several main reports and a specific data targeting system field campaign (DTS-MEDEX-2009). The scientific achievements are significant in fields like climatology, dynamical understanding of the physical processes and social impact of cyclones, as well as in aspects related to the location of sensitive zones for individual cases, the climatology of sensitivity zones and the improvement of the forecasts through innovative methods like mesoscale ensemble prediction systems.
Teleology Beyond Metaphysics: Husserlian Phenomenology and the Historical Consciousness of Modernity
Authors: Miettinen Timo
Published: August 2014

This article examines the idea of historical teleology in the context of Husserlian phenomenology. Although Husserl derived this notion from the historical thinking of German idealism, the phenomenological concept of teleology differed radically from this current: instead of a deterministic idea signifying the inevitable progress of historical development, the phenomenological concept of teleology was to be understood as a fundamentally critical device of philosophical reflection—something that ought to liberate us from the yoke of the present moment. On the basis of these reformulations, the article defends the phenomenological idea of teleology as an inalienable tool of historical thinking.
Políticas públicas ambientais no Brasil: da administração dos recursos naturais (1930) à criação do Sistema Nacional de Unidades de Conservação (2000)
Authors: Peccatiello Ana Flávia Oliveira
Published: August 2014

O presente artigo tem por objetivo traçar considerações sobre a evolução das políticas públicas ambientais brasileiras no período compreendido entre os anos de 1930 e 2000, com ênfase na contextualização histórico-política. Na década de 1930, é possível verificar os primeiros esforços no sentido de regulamentar a apropriação de cada recurso natural em âmbito nacional, com foco nas necessidades das nascentes industrialização e urbanização. Além disso, neste período também foi criada grande parte dos instrumentos legais que dariam suporte à criação de áreas protegidas no Brasil. O ano 2000, por sua vez, é emblemático pela aprovação do Sistema Nacional de Unidade de Conservação (Lei nº 9.985/2000), cuja gênese se deu em meio a um grande embate entre as diferentes posições existentes no Brasil sobre a questão ambiental, algumas contraditórias entre si, representadas, entre outras, por preservacionistas, conservacionistas, socioambientalistas e ruralistas. Os cenários da criação das políticas públicas ambientais no Brasil e a legitimação das correspondentes legislações são constituídos por aspectos conjunturais de ordem nacional e internacional que retratam a ordem política nacional tradicionalmente estabelecida, o que se configura importante objeto de reflexão.
Wine consumers’ preferences in Spain: an analysis using the best-worst scaling approach
Authors: De-Magistris Tiziana , Gracia Azucena , Albisu Luis-Miguel
Published: August 2014

Research on wine consumers’ preferences has largely been explored in the academic literature and the importance of wine attributes has been measured by rating or ranking scales. However, the most recent literature on wine preferences has applied the best-worst scaling approach to avoid the biased outcomes derived from using rating or ranking scales in surveys. This study investigates premium red wine consumers’ preferences in Spain by applying best-worst alternatives. To achieve this goal, a random parameter logit model is applied to assess the impacts of wine attributes on the probability of choosing premium quality red wine by using data from an ad-hoc survey conducted in a medium-sized Spanish city. The results suggest that some wine attributes related to past experience (i.e. it matches food) followed by some related to personal knowledge (i.e. the designation of origin) are valued as the most important, whereas other attributes related to the image of the New World (i.e. label or brand name) are perceived as the least important or indifferent.
Development of new gene-specific markers associated with salt tolerance for mungbean (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek)
Authors: Sehrawat Nirmala , Bhat Kangila V. , Kaga Akito , Tomooka Norihiko , Yadav Mukesh , Jaiwal Pawan K.
Published: August 2014

Thirty eight novel microsatellite markers (SSRs) specific to candidate genes involved in salt tolerance were developed for detection of genetic variations in 12 mungbean genotypes variably adapted to salt stress. A 100 out of 124 putative alleles were found polymorphic between wild and cultivated genotypes (inter-specific, 80.65%), 65 were within cultivars of mungbean (intra-specific, 52.42%) and 52 were within wild genotypes (inter-specific, 41.94%). The polymorphism varied from 86.84% to 100%, while the number of polymorphic alleles ranged from 1 to 4 with an average value of 2.63 per locus. The polymorphism information content (PIC) values ranged from 0.326 to 0.875 with an average value of 0.671, which shows their effectiveness in genetic analysis. Cluster analysis resulted in the distribution of salt tolerant and susceptible genotypes in separate groups which revealed the presence of inherent variations among mungbean cultivars. These variations were explored effectively for SSR markers studies. The developed SSR markers may help along with already available markers to execute further research on mungbean. The markers may be coupled with specific loci linked with salt tolerance. The developed markers will help to identify the QTLs (quantitative trait loci) or other important genes. These markers can also be utilized for testing the purity of hybrids or diversity assessment of Vigna species for important agronomic traits.
Carcass and meat quality traits of Celta heavy pigs. Effect of the inclusion of chestnuts in the finishing diet
Authors: Temperan Sara , Lorenzo Jose M. , Castiñeiras Bernardino Dominguez , Franco Inmaculada , Carballo Javier
Published: August 2014

Carcass and meat quality traits were studied in 36 Celta pigs (a breed native from NW of Spain) reared for 16 months in an extensive regime and slaughtered at a live weight of around 170 kg. The effect of partially or totally replacing commercial compound feed with chestnuts in the finishing diet was also investigated. Celta heavy pigs were characterised by high killing out, subcutaneous fat thickness, and ham length values, and by low ham perimeter, and Longissimus lumborum muscle area values. Meat showed high myoglobin contents and a* values, and very high hardness. By increasing the proportion of chestnuts in the finishing diet the quantity of back fat increased and the pH of the meat decreased. However, neither these effects, nor any of those on the other traits studied were statistically significant. The absence of significant effects may be due to the fact that pigs fed with chestnuts were not subjected to feed restrictions.
Natural vegetation management to conserve biodiversity and soil water in olive orchards
Authors: Simoes Maria P. , Belo Anabela F. , Pinto-Cruz Carla , Pinheiro Anacleto C.
Published: August 2014

The combined impact of soil tillage intensification and expansion of olive farming is resulting in soil degradation and biodiversity decline. We hypothesized that, instead of tilling, mowing to control the natural vegetation in spring can increase biodiversity and improve soil quality. We compared the effects of natural vegetation mowing (NVM) with those of tillage (NVT) on plant community composition and cover, soil water content and resistance to penetration, and olive yield over an 8-year period, in a Mediterranean rainfed olive orchard. NVM had an average of 28 more species and showed a strong positive correlation with Poaceae and Fabaceae, and also with geophytes and hemicryptophytes. In contrast, NVT was negatively correlated with species richness and diversity, with perennial life forms, and positively correlated with Convolvulaceae. Proportions of grass and straw cover in spring were higher in NVM from the beginning of the study (average difference was about 20%). In autumn, grass cover became higher in NVM than in NVT from year five (13% more) and straw cover from year two (30% more). Olive production did not differ between treatments in any of the years. Soil water was higher in NVM, at both soil depths, particularly in mid-summer and after the first autumn rains (1 to 2%). Soil resistance to penetration was 1 Mpa higher in NVM than in NVT. As compared to conventional tillage, natural vegetation cover mowed in spring seems to be an effective management practice to improve the overall rainfed olive orchard biodiversity and soil quality, without affecting production.
Surface fertigation: a review, gaps and needs
Authors: Ebrahimian Hamed , Keshavarz Mohammad R. , Playán Enrique
Published: August 2014

Surface fertigation is a common choice when it comes to applying fertilizers in surface irrigated crops. The inherent complexity of the concepts and equations governing surface fertigation has made this technique a challenging research issue in the past decades. A number of researchers have used field experiments and/or modelling results to develop recommendations aiming at improving surface fertigation management. In this paper, these recommendations are reviewed and classified considering the particular type of surface irrigation system. Key factors affecting surface fertigation performance, such as the inflow hydrograph, soil and water quality, effective root depth for fertilizer uptake and the specific surface irrigation method are discussed. The history of surface fertigation modelling is reviewed, introducing key developments, accomplishments and open issues. Finally, current research gaps and needs are identified and discussed, such as the coupling of two-dimensional surface and subsurface simulation models or the use of performance optimization approaches. Research gaps require an intensification of modelling and/or experimental efforts.
Short communication. A survey of potential insect vectors of the plant pathogenic bacterium Xylella fastidiosa in three regions of Spain
Authors: Lopes Joao R. S. , Landa Blanca B. , Fereres Alberto
Published: August 2014

The emergence of a rapid-spreading olive disease associated with Xylella fastidiosa in southern Italy represents a high risk to susceptible crops in other countries of the Mediterranean basin, if insect vectors occur in the region. The goal of this study was to identify xylem-feeding Auchenorrhyncha that could potentially act as vectors of X. fastidiosa in three regions of Spain (Andalucía, Murcia and Madrid). Samplings with sweep net and stem tap were carried out in October/2004 on grapevines and adjacent crops (olives, nectarine, citrus, Prunus spp.), ornamental trees and herbaceous weeds. Yellow sticky cards were placed in ten vineyards located across 100 km in Andalucía and in three vineyards distant 10-15 km apart in Murcia. Specimens of frequently-trapped species were tested by nested- or multiplex-PCR for the presence of X. fastidiosa. The Typhlocybinae leafhopper, Austroasca (Jacobiasca) lybica (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) was the most abundant species in vineyards and citrus orchards. Planthoppers (Hemiptera: Fulgoroidea) and psyllids (Hemiptera: Psylloidea) were prevalent on olives. Cicadellinae leafhoppers (known as sharpshooters), which are major vectors of X. fastidiosa in the Americas, were not found in the samples. The only potential vectors were spittlebugs (Hemiptera: Cercopoidea) collected on Populus sp., herbaceous and on conifer trees (Pinus halepense); the spittlebug Neophileanus sp. was common on conifer trees adjacent to a vineyard in Jumilla. None of the insect samples tested positive for X. fastidiosa by PCR assays. However, spittlebugs already associated with susceptible crops in Spain may allow fast spread of X. fastidiosa in case this pathogen is introduced.
Conditional Two Level Mixture with Known Mixing Proportions: Applications to School and Student Level Overweight and Obesity Data from Birmingham, England
Authors: Hussain Shakir , AL-Alak Mehdi , Shukur Ghazi
Published: August 2014

Two Level (TL) models allow the total variation in the outcome to be decomposed as level one and level two or ‘individual and group’ variance components. Two Level Mixture (TLM) models can be used to explore unobserved heterogeneity that represents different qualitative relationships in the outcome.
In this paper, we extend the standard TL model by introducing constraints to guide the TLM algorithm towards a more appropriate data partitioning. Our constraints-based methods combine the mixing proportions estimated by parametric Expectation Maximization (EM) of the outcome and the random component from the TL model. This forms new two level mixing conditional (TLMc) approach by means of prior information. The new framework advantages are: 1. avoiding trial and error tactic used by TLM for choosing the best BIC (Bayesian Information Criterion), 2. permitting meaningful parameter estimates for distinct classes in the coefficient space and finally 3. allowing smaller residual variances. We show the benefit of our method using overweight and obesity from Body Mass Index (BMI) for students in year 6. We apply these methods on hierarchical BMI data to estimate student multiple deprivation and school Club effects.
É preciso saber viver, é preciso saber viver... (Titãs)
Authors: Malafaia Guilherme
Published: August 2014

Não disponível
Contribuições de testes de tempo de reação para avaliações do comportamento motor e da saúde: software E-Prime®
Authors: Crocetta Tânia Brusque , Andrade Alexandro
Published: August 2014

Este estudo analisou a produção científica relacionada ao uso de softwares de tempo de reação (TR), identificando o mais utilizado e descrevendo a temática dos estudos que fizeram uso deste software, a partir de artigos publicados na base de dados ScienceDirect (de 2001 até 2013), por ser abrangente e cobrir as principais áreas de interesse no uso deste tipo de software. A partir das palavras “reaction time” e “computer ou software”, identificou-se o software E-Prime® como o mais utilizado, totalizando 11 artigos que foram selecionados para esta pesquisa. Os itens investigados foram: periódico, objetivo do estudo, amostra, área de aplicação ou especialidade, acessório utilizado para resposta, tipo de TR, descrição da tarefa e resultados. O periódico Appetite publicou dois artigos, as demais publicações ocorreram em periódicos distintos. Predominaram pesquisas com adultos saudáveis (n=5), com média de 57,6 participantes. Para registro da resposta, foi utilizado um acessório externo que acompanha o software. Quanto ao tema, foram identificados e apresentados resultados sobre análises da coordenação e planos motores (n=2), análises de transtornos relacionados ao uso de substâncias (n=2), transtornos da visão (n=1), análises no comportamento alimentar (n=2), o efeito da motivação sobre o desempenho no TR (n=1) e os transtornos da fala e da linguagem (n=2), além da avaliação dos distúrbios da atenção em Parkinsonianos (n=1). Os resultados demonstram a diversidade de aplicabilidade de estudos com tarefas de TR com o uso de apenas um software e a forte relação entre TR e medidas de saúde física e cognitiva.
Access to antiretroviral therapy and survival in eastern Europe and central Asia: a case study in Armenia
Authors: Mallitt Kylie‐Ann , Grigoryan Samvel R , Papoyan Arshak S , Wand Handan C , Wilson David P
Published: August 2014

Introduction

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) substantially improves the health of people living with HIV and contributes to preventing new infections. While HIV incidence is decreasing in most regions, the epidemic in eastern Europe continues to rise, as new infections currently outnumber the rate of ART initiation. In this study, we assess ART use in Armenia and its impact on the number of AIDS diagnoses and mortality.

Methods

National surveillance data were obtained from the National Centre for AIDS Prevention, Armenia. Cox‐proportional hazard models were used to determine the effect of demographic and clinical risk factors, including access to ART, on AIDS and mortality.

Results

Among people diagnosed with HIV since 2005, approximately 40% per year were diagnosed with CD4<200 cells per mL. Overall, 232 people (57.1%) with AIDS or a low CD4 count had not received ART by the end of 2010. Mortality was 34.1% among people living with HIV who did not initiate ART, and 0.3% among people who received ART. Among people diagnosed with HIV from 1996 to 2010, age at diagnosis, no use of ART, likely mode of transmission, likely place of transmission, low baseline CD4 count and no STI diagnosis at last contact are significantly associated with death.

Discussion

In Armenia, HIV is frequently diagnosed at a late stage of disease, indicating low testing rates. Of people diagnosed with HIV and in need of ART, a large proportion (approximately 60%) either do not provide consent for treatment, or are who migrants who cannot be located.

Conclusions

Globally, the scale‐up of ART has resulted in substantial reductions in mortality among individuals initiating therapy. However, in an era of momentum for treatment as prevention, treatment levels are not at adequate levels for preventing morbidities and mortality in some settings. Particular focus should be placed on key at‐risk subgroups.
RETRACTED: Protein kinase C is a calcium sensor for presynaptic short-term plasticity
Authors: Fioravante Diasynou , Chu YunXiang , de Jong Arthur PH , Leitges Michael , Kaeser Pascal S , Regehr Wade G
Published: August 2014

In presynaptic boutons, calcium (Ca2+) triggers both neurotransmitter release and short-term synaptic plasticity. Whereas synaptotagmins are known to mediate vesicle fusion through binding of high local Ca2+ to their C2 domains, the proteins that sense smaller global Ca2+ increases to produce short-term plasticity have remained elusive. Here, we identify a Ca2+ sensor for post-tetanic potentiation (PTP), a form of plasticity thought to underlie short-term memory. We find that at the functionally mature calyx of Held synapse the Ca2+-dependent protein kinase C isoforms α and β are necessary for PTP, and the expression of PKCβ in PKCαβ double knockout mice rescues PTP. Disruption of Ca2+ binding to the PKCβ C2 domain specifically prevents PTP without impairing other PKCβ-dependent forms of synaptic enhancement. We conclude that different C2-domain-containing presynaptic proteins are engaged by different Ca2+ signals, and that Ca2+ increases evoked by tetanic stimulation are sensed by PKCβ to produce PTP.
The spinal cord is never at rest
Authors: Eippert Falk , Tracey Irene
Published: August 2014

Even when we are at rest, our spinal cords show spontaneous, yet well organised, fluctuations of activity that might reflect sensory and motor networks.
New Award Recognizes Exemplary Research Made Possible by Ocean Drilling
Authors: Katz Pamela
Published: August 2014

AGU announces the establishment of a new award, the Asahiko Taira International Scientific Ocean Drilling Research Prize, which will be given “in recognition of outstanding transdiciplinary research accomplishment in ocean drilling.” The honoree must be within 15 years of having earned a Ph.D.
A Change in Scope for Paleoceanography
Authors: Charles Christopher
Published: August 2014

The editorial board of Paleoceanography and the AGU Publications Committee are pleased to announce that effective immediately, the thematic scope will be expanded to attract manuscripts embracing all aspects of global paleoclimatology.
Building a better model of mantle structure
Authors: Schultz Colin
Published: August 2014

Using observations of seismic energy that has passed through the mantle, researchers can measure the relative velocities of seismic waves within different vertical regions of the Earth. With such tomographic constraints, they can get a picture of structures within the mantle and infer how the mantle moves.
A mutation in the Kozak sequence of GATA4 hampers translation in a family with atrial septal defects
Authors: Mohan Rajiv A. , van Engelen Klaartje , Stefanovic Sonia , Barnett Phil , Ilgun Aho , Baars Marieke J.H. , Bouma Berto J. , Mulder Barbara J.M. , Christoffels Vincent M. , Postma Alex V.
Published: August 2014

Atrial septal defect (ASD) is the most common congenital heart defect clinically characterized by an opening in the atrial septum. Mutations in GATA4, TBX5, and NKX2‐5 underlie this phenotype. Here, we report on the identification of a novel ‐6 G > C mutation in the highly conserved Kozak sequence in the 5'UTR of GATA4 in a small family presenting with two different forms of ASD. This is the first time a mutation in the Kozak sequence has been linked to heart disease. Functional assays demonstrate reduced GATA4 translation, though the GATA4 transcript levels remain normal. This leads to a reduction of GATA4 protein level, consequently diminishing the ability of GATA4 to transactivate target genes, as demonstrated by using the GATA4‐driven Nppa (ANF) promoter. In conclusion, we identified a mutation in the GATA4 Kozak sequence that likely contributes to the pathogenesis of ASD. In general, it points to the importance of accurate protein level regulation during heart development and emphasizes the need to analyze the entire transcribed region when screening for mutations. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Current practice trends in allergy: results of a united states survey of otolaryngologists, allergist‐immunologists, and primary care physicians
Authors: Ryan Matthew W. , Marple Bradley F. , Leatherman Bryan , Mims J. Whit , Fornadley John , Veling Maria , Lin Sandra Y.
Published: August 2014

Background

Clinical practices for the diagnosis and treatment of allergic disease evolve over time in response to a variety of forces. The techniques used by various physician specialties are not clearly defined and may vary from published descriptions or recommendations in the literature.

Methods

This work is a Web‐based survey enrolling 250 U.S. physicians in the following specialties: otolaryngology (ENT), allergy‐immunology (A/I), and primary care (PCP).

Results

Respondents reported that skin‐prick testing is the most common diagnostic testing method, followed by in vitro specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) testing. ENTs were more likely to use intradermal testing compared to other specialties (p = 0.0003 vs A/I; p < 0.0001 vs PCP). Respondents reported a wide distribution in number of allergens tested, regardless of testing method (range, 11 to >60). Significant use of home immunotherapy injections (defined as >10% of immunotherapy patients) ranged from 27% to 36% of physicians, with no statistically significant difference noted based upon specialty. PCPs reported greater use of sublingual immunotherapy (PCP, 68%; A/I, 45%; otolaryngology, 35%; A/I vs PCP, p = 0.005; ENT vs PCP p < 0.001)).

Conclusion

A variety of allergy testing and treatment methods are employed by U.S. physicians, with some differences noted based upon specialty. Home immunotherapy continues to be employed in allergy practices, and sublingual immunotherapy is a common form of delivery, especially in primary care practices.
Dehydrogenative N‐Incorporation: A Direct Approach to Quinoxaline N‐Oxides under Mild Conditions
Authors: Chen Feng , Huang Xiaoqiang , Li Xinyao , Shen Tao , Zou Miancheng , Jiao Ning
Published: August 2014

An efficient method for the synthesis of quinoxaline N‐oxides proceeds by the dehydrogenative N‐incorporation of simple imines by C(sp2)H and C(sp3)H bond functionalization. The overall transformation involves the cleavage of three CH bonds. The reaction is easily handled and proceeds under mild conditions. Simple and readily available tert‐butyl nitrite (TBN) was employed as the NO source.
Zur Wärmeleitfähigkeits‐Messung feuchter Stoffe bei beidseitig feuchtedichtem Probenabschluss
Authors: Gertis Karl , Holm Andreas
Published: August 2014

Bei Wärmeleitfähigkeits‐Messungen sind die Proben in der Regel trocken. Wenn feuchte Proben gemessen werden, baut sich aufgrund des angelegten Temperaturgefälles über den Probenquerschnitt nicht nur ein Temperaturfeld auf, vielmehr setzt unvermeidbarerweise in der Probe auch ein Feuchtetransport ein, selbst dann, wenn beide Probenoberflächen als feuchtedicht anzusehen sind. Die Probe gibt dann zwar über Ihre Oberflächen keine Feuchte ab; die Feuchte kann sich aber während der Messung innerhalb der Probe verlagern, was latente Energien freisetzt oder bindet . Dadurch wird das Temperaturfeld bei der Messung beeinflusst. Der Feuchteeinfluss wird durch den sogenannten “Feuchte‐Einflussfaktor“ beschrieben, der in einer früheren Untersuchung bei einseitig dichtem Feuchteabschluss der Proben untersucht worden war. Bei dem nunmehr untersuchten beidseitig feuchtedichten Probenabschluss ergeben sich annähernd gleiche Feuchte‐Einflussfaktoren. Dies überrascht. Die vorhandenen hygrischen Randbedingungen (einseitiger oder zweiseitiger Feuchteabschluss) scheinen also doch nicht so viel Einfluss auszuüben, wie bislang vermutet.

Thermal conductivity testing of damp sample material using double‐sided moisture‐proof end pieces. Samples used for thermal conductivity measurements are normally dry. Using damp samples means that due to the temperature gradient generated, not only will a temperature‐field over the entire sample cross‐section build up, but also there is no way to avoid moisture transfer inside the sample; even with both surfaces considered moisture‐proof. The sample will not pass moisture over the surface during measurement, but the moisture inside the sample could shift causing release or absorption of latent energy. This would generate an impact on the temperature field during measurement. The moisture flow is characterized by the so called ‘moisture influence factor’, which has been monitored in a former test, using a one‐sided moisture‐proof end piece. The samples with double‐sided moisture‐proof end pieces used in the current test series show nearly identical ‘moisture influence factors’. This result is surprising and seems to prove that the influence of the existing hydric boundary conditions (one‐sided or double‐sided moisture‐proof end piece) is much less than previously assumed.
Meta-analysis of operative mortality and complications in patients from minority ethnic groups
Authors: Bloo G J A , Hesselink G J , Oron A , Emond E J J M , Damen J , Dekkers W J M , Westert G , Wolff A P , Calsbeek H , Wollersheim H C
Published: August 2014

Background

Insight into the effects of ethnic disparities on patients' perioperative safety is necessary for the development of tailored improvement strategies. The aim of this study was to review the literature on safety differences between patients from minority ethnic groups and those from the ethnic majority undergoing surgery.

Methods

PubMed, CINAHL, the Cochrane Library and Embase were searched using predefined inclusion criteria for available studies from January 1990 to January 2013. After quality assessment, the study data were organized on the basis of outcome, statistical significance and the direction of the observed effects. Relative risks for mortality were calculated.

Results

After screening 3105 studies, 26 studies were identified. Nine of these 26 studies showed statistically significant higher mortality rates for patients from minority ethnic groups. Meta-analysis demonstrated a greater risk of mortality for these patients compared with patients from the Caucasian majority in studies performed both in North America (risk ratio 1·22, 95 per cent confidence interval 1·05 to 1·42) and outside (risk ratio 2·25, 1·40 to 3·62). For patients from minority groups, the length of hospital or intensive care unit stay was significantly longer in five studies, and complication rates were significantly higher in ten. Methods used to identify patient ethnicity were not described in 14 studies.

Conclusion

Patients from minority ethnic groups, in North America and elsewhere, have an increased risk of perioperative death and complications. More insight is needed into the causes of ethnic disparities to pursue safer perioperative care for patients of minority ethnicity.
Variation in triggers and use of perioperative blood transfusion in major gastrointestinal surgery
Authors: Ejaz A , Spolverato G , Kim Y , Frank S M , Pawlik T M
Published: August 2014

Background

The decision to perform intraoperative blood transfusion is subject to a variety of clinical and laboratory factors. This study examined variation in haemoglobin (Hb) triggers and overall utilization of intraoperative blood transfusion, as well the impact of transfusion on perioperative outcomes.

Methods

The study included all patients who underwent pancreatic, hepatic or colorectal resection between 2010 and 2013 at Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland. Data on Hb levels that triggered an intraoperative or postoperative transfusion and overall perioperative blood utilization were obtained and analysed.

Results

Intraoperative transfusion was employed in 437 (15·6 per cent) of the 2806 patients identified. Older patients (odds ratio (OR) 1·68), patients with multiple co-morbidities (Charlson co-morbidity score 4 or above; OR 1·66) and those with a lower preoperative Hb level (OR 4·95) were at increased risk of intraoperative blood transfusion (all P < 0·001). The Hb level employed to trigger transfusion varied by sex, race and service (all P < 0·001). A total of 105 patients (24·0 per cent of patients transfused) had an intraoperative transfusion with a liberal Hb trigger (10 g/dl or more); the majority of these patients (78; 74·3 per cent) did not require any additional postoperative transfusion. Patients who received an intraoperative transfusion were at greater risk of perioperative complications (OR 1·55; P = 0·002), although patients transfused with a restrictive Hb trigger (less than 10 g/dl) showed no increased risk of perioperative morbidity compared with those transfused with a liberal Hb trigger (OR 1·22; P = 0·514).

Conclusion

Use of perioperative blood transfusion varies among surgeons and type of operation. Nearly one in four patients received a blood transfusion with a liberal intraoperative transfusion Hb trigger of 10 g/dl or more. Intraoperative blood transfusion was associated with higher risk of perioperative morbidity.
A Theoretically‐Guided Optimization of a New Family of Modular P,S‐Ligands for Iridium‐Catalyzed Hydrogenation of Minimally Functionalized Olefins
Authors: Margalef Jèssica , Caldentey Xisco , Karlsson Erik A. , Coll Mercè , Mazuela Javier , Pàmies Oscar , Diéguez Montserrat , Pericàs Miquel A.
Published: August 2014

A library of modular iridium complexes derived from thioether‐phosphite/phosphinite ligands has been evaluated in the asymmetric iridium‐catalyzed hydrogenation of minimally functionalized olefins. The modular ligand design has been shown to be crucial in finding highly selective catalysts for each substrate. A DFT study of the transition state responsible for the enantiocontrol in the Ir‐catalyzed hydrogenation is also described and used for further optimization of the crucial stereodefining moieties. Excellent enantioselectivities (enantiomeric excess (ee) values up to 99 %) have been obtained for a range of substrates, including E‐ and Z‐trisubstituted and disubstituted olefins, α,β‐unsaturated enones, tri‐ and disubstituted alkenylboronic esters, and olefins with trifluoromethyl substituents.
Palladium‐Catalyzed Imidoylative Cyclization of α‐Isocyanoacetamides: Efficient Access to C2‐Diversified Oxazoles
Authors: Wang Jian , Luo Shuang , Huang Jinbo , Mao Tingting , Zhu Qiang
Published: August 2014

A novel procedure for the synthesis of C2‐diversified oxazoles, through palladium‐catalyzed imidoylative cyclization of α‐isocyanoacetamides with aryl, vinyl, alkynyl halides, or triflates, was developed. Migratory insertion of isocyanide into a C‐palladium(II) intermediate in a cascade process was also realized, generating alkyl‐substituted oxazoles. Therefore, oxazoles functionalized at the C2 position with sp, sp2, and sp3 hybridized carbon atoms are accessible by applying this method.
Umwandlung und Speicherung von Sonnenenergie
Authors: Haeßner Carmen , Köhler Klaus , Wussow Katharina
Published: August 2014

Die vermehrte Nutzung von Sonnenlicht als erneuerbare Energiequelle wird zunehmend als wichtiges Ziel für die Zukunft anerkannt. Die potenziellen Methoden zur Umwandlung und Speicherung befinden sich in unterschiedlichen Entwicklungsstadien. Der Artikel gibt einen Überblick über die verschiedenen Ansätze. Schwerpunkt ist dabei die Umwandlung und Speicherung des Sonnenlichts als chemische Energie durch photokatalytische Prozesse. Vorbild und Realität ist die Photosynthese grüner Pflanzen. Ebenfalls Realität ist die energetische Nutzung der gebildeten Biomasse mit zunehmender Tendenz, aber nicht ohne klare Limitierungen. Photobioreaktoren (Algen, Bakterien) zeigen interessante Alternativen auf. Forschungsinteresse und Anstrengungen bei der künstlichen Photosynthese zur photokatalytischen Wasserspaltung und der photochemischen Umwandlung von Kohlendioxid sind enorm. Dennoch lassen Wirkungsgrade und ökonomische Berechnungen großtechnische Anwendungen erst in fernerer Zukunft erwarten. Kurz wird auch auf die direkte Umwandlung von Sonnenenergie in elektrische und in thermische Energie eingegangen. Die Silizium‐basierte Photovoltaik hat industrielle Reife erlangt und für jeden sichtbar breite Anwendung im Alltag gefunden. Solarthermie‐Anlagen für die sonnenreichsten Regionen befinden sich in der Entwicklungs‐ und Überführungsphase.
Syntheses and Solid‐State Structures of Et2SbTeEt and Et2BiTeEt
Authors: Heimann Stefan , Kuczkowski Andreas , Bläser Dieter , Wölper Christoph , Haack Rebekka , Jansen Georg , Schulz Stephan
Published: August 2014

Diethylstibanyl‐ and diethylbismuthanyl telluranes Et2MTeEt (M = Sb 1, Bi 2) as well as tBu3Sb (3) were structurally characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. Single crystals of 1–3 were grown by using an IR‐laser‐assisted technique. Compounds 1 and 2 form short intermolecular E···Te interactions in the solid state, which were further investigated with dispersion‐corrected density functional theory.
Paradox of omega‐3 PUFA oxidation
Authors: Miyashita Kazuo
Published: August 2014

The oxidative stability of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in micelles and in liposomes is dramatically different from that observed in the bulk phase and in organic solvents. In aqueous micelles, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6n‐3) is oxidatively most stable followed by EPA (20:5n‐3), arachidonic acid (AA, 20:4n‐6), α‐linolenic acid (18:3n‐3), γ‐linolenic acid (18:3n‐6), and linoleic acid (LA, 18:2n‐6), respectively. In phosphatidylcholine (PC) liposomes, DHA‐PC showed the highest oxidative stability followed by AA‐PC and LA‐PC in that order. This order was completely opposite to that found in bulk and in organic solvent systems. NMR and GC‐MS analysis and a computer modelling approach to hydroperoxide isomer composition suggest that the physical and stereochemical characteristics of DHA molecules in the aqueous phase are related to its unusually high oxidative stability. The possible mechanisms are a tight packing conformation of DHA molecules and the presence of water molecule near the double bonds of DHA, which may inhibit hydrogen abstraction from the bis‐allylic positions of DHA.

Effect of the relative location of the substrates and antioxidants and/or prooxidants on the lipid oxidation.
Evaluation of pyrolysis parameters for fiberglass reinforced polymer composites based on multi‐objective optimization
Authors: Kim E. , Dembsey N.
Published: August 2014

This study was conducted to investigate the ability of global, multi‐objective/variable optimization methods to estimate material parameters for comprehensive pyrolysis models—thermo‐physical and optical properties of two fiberglass reinforced polymer (FRP) composites that share the same fiberglass. With these optimization methods used in pair with a comprehensive pyrolysis model, parameter estimation was carefully conducted with considerations given to applying appropriate thermal decomposition kinetic models (three different models from simple to complex) and optimization targets (cone calorimeter data irradiated at 50 kW/m2). Estimation results are compared with independently measured effective properties—thermal conductivity, specific heat capacity, and emissivity of polymer resins and FRPs. Additionally, fiberglass properties estimated from the two FRPs are compared to analyze for consistency in optimized values. The results show that for a well‐configured parameter estimation exercise using the optimization method described earlier, (1) estimated results are within ±100% of the measurements in general and sometimes comparable to effective property values, (2) increasing complexity of the kinetic modeling for a single component system has insignificant effect on estimated values, and (3) increasing complexity of the kinetic modeling for a multiple component system with each element having different thermal characteristics has positive effect on estimated values. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.