bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EvoPipes.net: Bioinformatic Tools for Ecological and Evolutionary Genomics
Authors: Barker Michael S. , Dlugosch Katrina M. , Dinh Louie , Challa R. Sashikiran , Kane Nolan C. , King Matthew G. , Rieseberg Loren H.
Published: November 2010

Recent increases in the production of genomic data are yielding new opportunities and challenges for biologists. Among the chief problems posed by next-generation sequencing are assembly and analyses of these large data sets. Here we present an online server, http://EvoPipes.net , that provides access to a wide range of tools for bioinformatic analyses of genomic data oriented for ecological and evolutionary biologists. The EvoPipes.net server includes a basic tool kit for analyses of genomic data including a next-generation sequence cleaning pipeline (SnoWhite), scaffolded assembly software (SCARF), a reciprocal best-blast hit ortholog pipeline (RBH Orthologs), a pipeline for reference protein-based translation and identification of reading frame in transcriptome and genomic DNA (TransPipe), a pipeline to identify gene families and summarize the history of gene duplications (DupPipe), and a tool for developing SSRs or microsatellites from a transcriptome or genomic coding sequence collection (findSSR). EvoPipes.net also provides links to other software developed for evolutionary and ecological genomics, including chromEvol and NU-IN, as well as a forum for discussions of issues relating to genomic analyses and interpretation of results. Overall, these applications provide a basic bioinformatic tool kit that will enable ecologists and evolutionary biologists with relatively little experience and computational resources to take advantage of the opportunities provided by next-generation sequencing in their systems.
Computational identification of anthocyanin-specific transcription factors using a rice microarray and maximum boundary range algorithm
Authors: Kim Chang Kug , Kikuchi Shoshi , Hahn Jang Ho , Park Soo Chul , Kim Yong Hwan , Lee Byun Woo
Published: November 2010

This study identifies 2,617 candidate genes related to anthocyanin biosynthesis in rice using microarray analysis and a newly developed maximum boundary range algorithm. Three seed developmental stages were examined in white cultivar and two black Dissociation insertion mutants. The resultant 235 transcription factor genes found to be associated with anthocyanin were classified into nine groups. It is compared the 235 genes by transcription factor analysis and 593 genes from among clusters of COGs related to anthocyanin functions. Total 32 genes were found to be expressed commonly. Among these, 9 unknown and hypothetical genes were revealed to be expressed at each developmental stage and were verified by RT-PCR. These genes most likely play regulatory roles in either anthocyanin production or metabolism during flavonoid biosynthesis. While these genes require further validation, our results underline the potential usefulness of the newly developed algorithm.
Preliminary Study of the Clinical Hypoglycemic Effects of Allium cepa (Red Onion) in Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetic patients
Authors: Eldin Imad M. Taj , Ahmed Elhadi M. , Abd Elwahab H.M.
Published: November 2010

Background

Diabetes mellitus is a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by abnormalities of carbohydrate, protein and lipid metabolism. Type 1 diabetes mellitus is an autoimmune disease caused by destruction of pancreatic beta cells and characterized by defect in insulin secretion while type 2 diabetes mellitus results from abnormalities in insulin secretion and/or insulin action or both.

Objectives

The present study was conducted to investigate the clinical hypoglycemic effects of Allium cepa in type 1 and type 2 diabetic patients.

Results

In assessment of hypoglycaemic activity of Allium cepa in type 1 and type 2 diabetic patients, ingestion of crude Allium cepa (100 g) caused a considerable reduction in fasting blood glucose levels by about 89 mg/dl in relation to insulin (145 mg/dl) in type 1 diabetic patients and it reduced fasting blood glucose levels by 40 mg/dl, compared to glibenclamide (81 mg/dl) in type 2 diabetic patients, 4 hours later. The same dose of crude Allium cepa produced a significant reduction in the induced hyperglycemia (GTT) by about 120 mg/dl compared to water (77 mg/dl) and insulin (153 mg/dl) in type 1 diabetic patients and considerably reduced GTT by 159 mg/dl in relation to water (55 mg/dl) and glibenclamide (114 mg/dl) in type 2 diabetic patients, after 4 hours.

Conclusion

It was evident that, crude Allium cepa produced hypoglycemic effects, thus it could be used as a dietary supplement in management of type 1 and/or type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Invited review: Effect of temperature on a granular pile
Authors: Divoux Thibaut
Published: November 2010

As a fragile construction, a granular pile is very sensitive to minute external perturbations. In particular, it is now well established that a granular assembly is sensitive to variations of temperature. Such variations can produce localized rearrangements as well as global static avalanches inside a pile. In this review, we sum up the various observations that have been made concerning the effect of temperature on a granular assembly. In particular, we dwell on the way controlled variations of temperature have been employed to generate the compaction of a granular pile. After laying emphasis on the key features of this compaction process, we compare it to the classic vibration-induced compaction. Finally, we also review other \textit{granular systems} in a large sense, from microscopic (jammed multilamellar vesicles) to macroscopic scales (stone heave phenomenon linked to freezing and thawing of soils) for which periodic variations of temperature could play a key role in the dynamics at stake.Received: 10 August 2010; Accepted: 28 October 2010; Edited by: I. Ippolito; Reviewed by: A. Coniglio,  Universita di Napoli “Federico II”, Napoli, Italy; DOI: 10.4279/PIP.020006Editor's Note: Some figures in this paper are reprinted with permission from Wiley-VCH Verlag, the American Physcal Society, Elsevier and the Nature Publishing Group. Readers may view, browse, and/or download material for temporary copying purposes only, provided these uses are for noncommercial personal purposes. Except as provided by law, this material may not be further reproduced, distributed, transmitted, modified, adapted, performed, displayed, published, or sold in whole or part, without prior written permission from the abovementioned editorial organizations.
Circuit design with adjustable threshold using the independently controlled double gate feature of the Vertical Slit Field Effect Transistor (VESFET)
Authors: Weis M. , Schmitt-Landsiedel D.
Published: November 2010

Abstract. The recently introduced Vertical Slit Field Effect Transistor allows for adjusting its threshold voltage through independent controllable gates. This feature can be applied to a broad range of circuits. In this paper two examples are presented. First, a ring oscillator with a wide frequency tuning range and second, a Schmitt trigger with a controllable hysteresis.
Effect of GPR-derived within-field soil moisture variability on the runoff response using a distributed hydrologic model
Authors: Minet J. , Laloy E. , Lambot S. , Vanclooster M.
Published: November 2010

Abstract. The importance of the spatial variability of the antecedent soil moisture conditions on the runoff response is widely acknowledged in hillslope hydrology. Using a distributed hydrologic model, this paper aims at investigating the effects of soil moisture spatial variability on the runoff in various field conditions and at finding the soil moisture scenario that behaves the most closely as the measured soil moisture pattern in term of runoff hydrograph. Soil moisture was surveyed in ten different field campaigns using a proximal ground penetrating radar (GPR) that allowed to perform high-resolution (~m) mapping at the field scale (several ha). Based on these soil moisture measurements, seven scenarios of antecedent soil moisture were used to feed hydrological simulations and the resulting hydrographs were compared. The novelty of this work is to benefit from high-resolution soil moisture measurements using an advanced GPR in various soil moisture conditions. Accounting for the spatial variability of soil moisture resulted in a larger discharge than using a spatially constant soil moisture. The ranges of possible hydrographs were delineated by the extreme scenarios where soil moisture was directly and inversely arranged according to the topographic wetness index (TWI). These behaviours could be explained in terms of runoff contributing areas, with respect to their sizes and their relative locations within the field. The most efficient scenario for soil moisture appeared to be when soil moisture is directly arranged according to the TWI. This was related to the correlation of the measured soil moisture and the TWI. These observations generalised some of the statements pointed out in previous studies. Similar findings are thus expected under similar soil and rainfall forcing conditions.
XPS Studies of Magnesium Surfaces after Exposure to Dulbecco's Modified Eagle Medium, Hank's Buffered Salt Solution, and Simulated Body Fluid
Authors: Tie Di , Feyerabend Frank , Hort Norbert , Willumeit Regine , Hoeche Daniel
Published: November 2010

Magnesium‐based biomaterials are gaining increasing interest, while in vitro corrosion tests are not standardized yet. Moreover, the effects of different corrosion media on the corrosion products are still not fully understood. To compare and evaluate the three main corrosion media applied in most in vitro studies, an XPS investigation of magnesium surfaces was carried out after exposure of the specimens to Dulbecco's modified eagle medium (DMEM), Hank's buffered salt solution (HBSS), and simulated body fluid (SBF). The effects of rinsing the specimens after immersion were also determined. XPS investigations especially on the Mg 2p state showed that MgO, Mg(OH)2, and MgCO3 species were the dominant corrosion products presenting in all specimens despite of the different corrosion media. However, the ratio of corrosion products depends on the medium composition. It was also shown that rinsing specimens after immersion experiments is a necessary procedure when surface analysis is employed afterward.
National stroke association recommendations for systems of care for transient ischemic attack
Authors: Johnston S. Claiborne , Albers Gregory W. , Gorelick Philip B. , Cumbler Ethan , Klingman Jeffrey , Ross Michael A. , Briggs Meg , Carlton Jean , Sloan Edward P. , Vaince Uzma
Published: November 2010

Transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) are common and portend a high short‐term risk of stroke. Evidence‐based recommendations for the urgent evaluation and treatment of patients with TIA have been published. However, implementation of these recommendations reliably and consistently will require changes in the systems of care established for TIA. The National Stroke Association convened a multidisciplinary panel of experts to develop recommendations for the essential components of systems of care at hospitals to improve the quality of care provided to patients with TIA. The panel recommends that hospitals establish standardized protocols to assure rapid and complete evaluation and treatment for patients with TIA, with particular attention to urgency and close observation in patients at high risk of stroke. ANN NEUROL 2011
Painless diabetic motor neuropathy: A variant of diabetic lumbosacral radiculoplexus Neuropathy?
Authors: Garces‐Sanchez Mercedes , Laughlin Ruple S. , Dyck Peter J. , Engelstad JaNean K. , Norell Jane E. , Dyck P. James B.
Published: November 2010

Objective:

Occasionally, diabetic patients develop painless, lower‐limb, motor predominant neuropathy. Whether this is a variant of diabetic lumbosacral radiculoplexus neuropathy (DLRPN) (a painful disorder from ischemic injury and microvasculitis), a variant of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP) or another disorder is unsettled. Here, we characterize the clinical and pathological features of painless diabetic motor predominant neuropathy.

Methods:

We identified patients with this syndrome who underwent nerve biopsy. We compared pathological features to 33 DLRPN and 25 CIDP biopsies.

Results:

23 patients were identified (22 had type 2 diabetes mellitus); 12 men; median age 62.2 years (range 36–78); median weight loss 30 pounds (range 0–100). Overall, the clinical features were similar to DLRPN except painless patients had more symmetrical and upper limb involvement, with slower progression and more severe impairment. Physiological testing demonstrated pan‐modality sensory loss, autonomic abnormalities and axonal polyradiculoneuropathies. Nerve biopsies were similar to DLPRN showing ischemic injury (multifocal fiber loss [11/23], perineural thickening [18/23], injury neuroma [11/23], neovascularization [17/23]) and evidence of altered immunity and microvasculitis (epineurial perivascular inflammation [23/23], prior bleeding [11/23], vessel wall inflammation [15/23], and microvasculitis [3/23]). In contrast, CIDP biopsies did not show ischemic injury or microvasculitis but revealed demyelination and onion‐bulbs.

Interpretation:

1) Painless diabetic motor neuropathy is painless DLRPN and not CIDP and is caused by ischemic injury and microvasculitis. 2) The clinical features of painless DLRPN are different from typical DLPRN being more insidious and symmetrical with slower evolution. 3) The slower evolution may explain the lack of pain. Ann Neurol 2010;
Non‐label homogeneous protein detection based on laser interferometric photo‐thermal displacement measurement using aptamers
Authors: Tsukakoshi Kaori , Ogasawara Daisuke , Takahashi Eiji , Katayama Ryo , Ikebukuro Kazunori
Published: November 2010

Photo‐thermal displacement measurement by laser interferometry involves the measurement of temperature change caused by illumination of the sample. To develop a system of detecting unlabeled homogeneous proteins based on laser interferometric measurement of photo‐thermal displacement, we studied the interaction between aptamers and their target molecules by using thrombin and the thrombin aptamer as a model target and ligand, respectively. Because of the energy consumed by aptamer–thrombin interactions, the signals obtained from solutions containing aptamer–thrombin mixtures varied depending on the thrombin concentration. We propose that this method involving the use of aptamers and photo‐thermal displacement measurement will provide a biomolecular detection system for rapid diagnosis.
Influence of glycosidic linkage on solution conformational entropy of oligosaccharides: Malto‐ vs. isomalto‐ and cello‐ vs. laminarioligosaccharides
Authors: Striegel André M. , Boone Marcus A.
Published: November 2010

Carbohydrate flexibility can influence a variety of recognition, processing, and end‐use properties, at both the polymeric and oligomeric levels. The influence of glycosidic linkage, in particular, on carbohydrate flexibility is manifested in properties such as bacterial selectivity, solution viscosity, and the ability to regulate the spread of disease. Here, we apply size‐exclusion chromatography, an entropically controlled technique, to determine the solution conformational entropy (ΔS) of various oligosaccharide series. The aim of the present study is to highlight how, for a given anomeric configuration, glycosidic linkage affects ΔS, and to do so quantitatively as a function of degree of polymerization (DP). To this end, we compare ΔS values for DP 1‐7 for malto‐ and isomaltooligosaccharides, and for DP 1‐5 for cello‐ and laminarioligosaccharides. To do so, we realize previously unattainable separations of disaccharides via a strict size‐exclusion mechanism. Also given here are the requirements for extending our method to other oligomers, as well as to biopolymers. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 95: 228–233, 2011.
Quantitative Proteomics for Epigenetics
Authors: Eberl H. Christian , Mann Matthias , Vermeulen Michiel
Published: November 2010

Mass spectrometry has made many contributions to the chromatin field through the mapping of histone modifications and the identification of protein complexes involved in gene regulation. MS‐based proteomics has now evolved from the identification of single protein spots in gels to the identification and quantification of thousands of proteins in complex mixtures. Quantitative approaches also allow comparative and time‐resolved analysis of post‐translational modifications. An important emerging field is the unbiased interaction analysis of proteins with other proteins, defined protein modifications, specific DNA and RNA sequences, and small molecules. Quantitative proteomics can also accurately monitor whole proteome changes in response to perturbation of the gene expression machinery. We provide an up‐to‐date review of modern quantitative proteomic technology and its applications in the field of epigenetics.
A Chemical Method for Labeling Lysine Methyltransferase Substrates
Authors: Binda Olivier , Boyce Michael , Rush Jason S. , Palaniappan Krishnan K. , Bertozzi Carolyn R. , Gozani Or
Published: November 2010

Several protein lysine methyltransferases (PKMTs) modify histones to regulate chromatin‐dependent cellular processes, such as transcription, DNA replication and DNA damage repair. PKMTs are likely to have many additional substrates in addition to histones, but relatively few nonhistone substrates have been characterized, and the substrate specificity for many PKMTs has yet to be defined. Thus, new unbiased methods are needed to find PKMT substrates. Here, we describe a chemical biology approach for unbiased, proteome‐wide identification of novel PKMT substrates. Our strategy makes use of an alkyne‐bearing S‐adenosylmethionine (SAM) analogue, which is accepted by the PKMT, SETDB1, as a cofactor, resulting in the enzymatic attachment of a terminal alkyne to its substrate. Such labeled proteins can then be treated with azide‐functionalized probes to ligate affinity handles or fluorophores to the PKMT substrates. As a proof‐of‐concept, we have used SETDB1 to transfer the alkyne moiety from the SAM analogue onto a recombinant histone H3 substrate. We anticipate that this chemical method will find broad use in epigenetics to enable unbiased searches for new PKMT substrates by using recombinant enzymes and unnatural SAM cofactors to label and purify many substrates simultaneously from complex organelle or cell extracts.
Hyperbaric Conditions
Authors: Doolette David J. , Mitchell Simon J.
Published: November 2010

Exposure to elevated ambient pressure (hyperbaric conditions) occurs most commonly in underwater diving, during which respired gas density and partial pressures, work of breathing, and physiological dead space are all increased. There is a tendency toward hypercapnia during diving, with several potential causes. Most importantly, there may be reduced responsiveness of the respiratory controller to rising arterial CO2, leading to hypoventilation and CO2retention. Contributory factors may include elevated arterialPO2, inert gas narcosis and an innate (but variable) tendency of the respiratory controller to sacrifice tight control of arterial CO2when work of breathing increases. Oxygen is usually breathed at elevated partial pressure under hyperbaric conditions. Oxygen breathing at modest hyperbaric pressure is used therapeutically in hyperbaric chambers to increase arterial carriage of oxygen and diffusion into tissues. However, to avoid cerebral and pulmonary oxygen toxicity during underwater diving, both the magnitude and duration of oxygen exposure must be managed. Therefore, most underwater diving is conducted breathing mixtures of oxygen and inert gases such as nitrogen or helium, often simply air. At hyperbaric pressure, tissues equilibrate over time with high inspired inert gas partial pressure. Subsequent decompression may reduce ambient pressure below the sum of tissue gas partial pressures (supersaturation) which can result in tissue gas bubble formation and potential injury (decompression sickness). Risk of decompression sickness is minimized by scheduling time at depth and decompression rate to limit tissue supersaturation or size and profusion of bubbles in accord with models of tissue gas kinetics and bubble formation and growth. © 2011 American Physiological Society.Compr Physiol1:163‐201, 2011.
Environmental Perturbations: Obesity
Authors: Shore Stephanie A.
Published: November 2010

Obesity currently affects about one‐third of the U.S. population, while another one‐third is overweight. The importance of obesity for certain conditions such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes is well appreciated. The effects of obesity on the respiratory system have received less attention and are the subject of this article. Obesity alters the static mechanical properties of the respiratory system leading to a reduction in the functional residual capacity (FRC) and the expiratory reserve volume (ERV). There is substantial variability in the effects of obesity on FRC and ERV, at least some of which is related to the location rather than the total mass of adipose tissue. Obesity also results in airflow obstruction, which is only partially attributable to breathing at low lung volume, and can also promote airway hyperresponsiveness and asthma. Hypoxemia is common is obesity and correlates well with FRC, as well as with measures of abdominal obesity. However, obese subjects are usually eucapnic, indicating that hypoventilation is not a common cause of their hypoxemia. Instead, hypoxemia results from ventilation‐perfusion mismatch caused by closure of dependent airways at FRC. Many obese subjects complain of dyspnea either at rest or during exertion, and the dyspnea score also correlates with reductions in FRC and ERV. Weight reduction should be encouraged in any symptomatic obese individual, since virtually all of the respiratory complications of obesity improve with even moderate weight loss. © 2011 American Physiological Society.Compr Physiol1:263‐282, 2011.
Mechanical and Structural Plasticity
Authors: Seow Chun Y. , Solway Julian
Published: November 2010

Excessive narrowing of the airways due to airway smooth muscle (ASM) contraction is a major cause of asthma exacerbation. ASM is therefore a direct target for many drugs used in asthma therapy. The contractile mechanism of smooth muscle is not entirely clear. A major advance in the field in the last decade was the recognition and appreciation of the unique properties of smooth muscle—mechanical and structural plasticity, characterized by the muscle's ability to rapidly alter the structure of its contractile apparatus and cytoskeleton and adapt to the mechanically dynamic environment of the lung. This article describes a possible mechanism for smooth muscle to adapt and function over a large length range by adding or subtracting contractile units in series spanning the cell length; it also describes a mechanism by which actin‐myosin‐actin connectivity might be influenced by thin and thick filament lengths, thus altering the muscle response to mechanical perturbation. The new knowledge is extremely useful for our understanding of ASM behavior in the lung and could provide new and more effective targets for drugs aimed at relaxing the muscle or keeping the muscle from excessive shortening in the asthmatic airways. © 2011 American Physiological Society.Compr Physiol1:283‐293, 2011.
Microwave‐Assisted Synthesis of a Nitro‐m‐xylylenedioxycalix[6]arene Building Block Functionalized at the Upper Rim
Authors: Galán Hitos , de Mendoza Javier , Prados Pilar
Published: November 2010

Microwave‐assisted synthesis represents a new methodology to obtain calix[6]arene building blocks. The synthesis of compounds 1 and 2 is described. These compounds are A,D‐m‐xylylenedioxy‐bridged calix[6]arenes in cone conformation, functionalized with potential amino groups in the lower rim spacer (5‐position) and amino groups or their precursors in A,D‐para positions at the upper rim. A conformational study has been performed for all newly synthesized compounds.
Selective sp3 C–H Bond Activation Based on a Carbocation Relay: Friedel–Crafts Reaction with Alkanes as the Alkylating Component
Authors: Wang Jie , Zhou Pengfei , Wang Yang
Published: November 2010

A highly efficient and selective intramolecular Friedel–Crafts reaction of 3‐methylbutyl or 4‐methylpentyl‐substituted aromatics has been developed using a carbocation relay strategy through selective sp3 C–H bond activation, providing a facile and cost‐effective approach for the construction of benzocyclic compounds. A variety of 1,1‐dimethylindane and naphthalene derivatives have been prepared from very simple starting materials in good yields with high selectivity. The present strategy has provided a new example of a Friedel–Crafts reaction with alkanes as the alkylating component and constitutes a convenient approach to selective C–H bond activation and functionalization of alkane derivatives.
Synthesis of Functionalized Dibenzothiophenes – An Efficient Three‐Step Approach Based on Pd‐Catalyzed C–C and C–S Bond Formations
Authors: Jepsen Tue Heesgaard , Larsen Mogens , Jørgensen Morten , Solanko Katarzyna A. , Bond Andrew D. , Kadziola Anders , Nielsen Mogens Brøndsted
Published: November 2010

A novel and efficient three‐step protocol for synthesizing functionalized dibenzothiophenes (DBTs) from common starting materials and by using palladium‐catalyzed carbon–carbon and carbon–sulfur bond formations is presented. The reaction conditions offer significantly improved functional‐group tolerance and regioselectivity as compared to previously reported methods.
Pharyngolaryngectomy with free jejunal autograft reconstruction and tracheoesophageal voice restoration: Indications for replacements, microbial colonization, and indwelling times of the Provox 2 voice prostheses
Authors: Reumueller Adrian , Leonhard Matthias , Mancusi Gudrun , Gaechter Johannes Nikolaus , Bigenzahn Wolfgang , Schneider‐Stickler Berit
Published: November 2010

Background.

The purpose of this prospective study was to investigate shunt‐related and device‐related complications and microbial colonization of voice prostheses in patients after pharyngolaryngectomy with jejunal autograft reconstruction in comparison to patients after standard laryngectomy.

Methods.

Nine patients after pharyngolaryngectomy with jejunal autograft reconstruction (group 1) and 14 patients after standard laryngectomy (group 2) equipped with the Provox®2 voice prostheses were followed up over 2 years. Anamnestic data, documentation of shunt‐related or device‐related complications, the Provox®2 indwelling time, and standard microbiological procedures of voice prostheses were used for analyses.

Results.

A total of 157 prostheses were replaced. No significant difference in mean prosthesis indwelling time (p = .45) was observed between group 1 (116 ± 114 days) and group 2 (129 ± 99 days). Patients with jejunal autograft reconstruction needed prosthesis replacements more frequently within the first 60 days after prosthesis insertion in comparison to patients after standard laryngectomy (p = .007). The main indication for replacement in both groups was the device leakage (group 1: 93.1%, group 2: 92.1%). Prostheses of group 1 were more often colonized with Staphylococcus aureus (p = .027) and Enterobacteriaceae (p = .015).

Conclusion.

This study demonstrated that, in comparison with patients after standard laryngectomy, patients after jejunal autograft reconstruction have similar shunt‐related and device‐related complications and prosthesis indwelling times. Therefore, tracheoesophageal voice rehabilitation could be strongly recommended in these patients. Head Neck, 2011
Vegetation indices changes in the cloud forest of La Gomera Island (Canary Islands) and their hydrological implications
Authors: Izquierdo Tatiana , de las Heras Patricia , Márquez Alvaro
Published: November 2010

Vegetation indices derived from remote sensing data still remain to be used for analysing the relationship between climatic factors and vegetation seasonal phenology in middle latitudes with subtropical conditions forests such as the Canarian laurel forest. The Garajonay National Park, located in the La Gomera Island, protects one of the best preserved examples of the Macaronesian laurel forest, due to the cloud banks produced by trade winds, with rainfall and temperature field data showing a clear Mediterranean climatic pattern. We have analysed seasonal vegetation indices trend for different types of forest inside the Garajonay National Park using normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) and enhanced vegetation index (EVI) products derived from moderate resolution imaging spectrometer (MODIS) Aqua data for two hydrological years (October 2003 to September 2005) in relationship with the existing field climatic data: rainfall, net fog water and temperature. Maximum annual EVI maps show the highest vegetation indices in the laurel forest of La Gomera that occur during the dry season, mainly in late spring to early summer, with EVI temporal profiles showing that valley‐bottom laurel forest areas have the most clear seasonal trend. Difference maps of EVI values between months with the lowest and highest rainfall of each hydrological year clearly confirm the highest photosynthetic activity in the laurel forest during the dry season. In addition, these forests show a significative temporal correlation between EVI values and the temperature in the forest (p < 0·001). Our results prove the absence of summer drought stress in the laurel forest implying that the fog drip income is high enough to maintain enough soil moisture to allow the forest fully transpire when temperatures are higher. As the laurel forest of La Gomera occurs in the main recharge area of the island's aquifer system, our analysis of EVI data suggests that fog drip constitutes a key hydrological factor. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The reduced form of coenzyme Q10 mediates distinct effects on cholesterol metabolism at the transcriptional and metabolite level in SAMP1 mice
Authors: Schmelzer Constance , Okun Jürgen G. , Haas Dorothea , Higuchi Keiichi , Sawashita Jinko , Mori Masayuki , Döring Frank
Published: November 2010

Studies in humans and mice indicate a role for coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) in gene expression. To analyze this function in relation to metabolism, SAMP1 mice were supplemented with the reduced (ubiquinol) or oxidized (ubiquinone) form of CoQ10 (500 mg/kg BW/d) for 14 months. Microarray analyses in liver tissues of SAMP1 mice identified 946 genes as differentially expressed between ubiquinol‐treated and control animals (≥1.5‐fold, P < 0.05). Text mining analyses revealed for a part of the ubiquinol‐regulated genes, a functional connection in PPARα and LXR/RXR signalling pathways. Because these pathways are involved in cholesterol homeostasis, relevant metabolites were determined by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). We found a significant increase of desmosterol (2.0‐fold, P < 0.001) in the liver of ubiquinol‐supplemented SAMP1 mice when related to control animals. In agreement, cholesterol concentrations were also distinctly increased (1.3‐fold, P = 0.057). The Q10H2‐induced PPARα and LXR/RXR gene expression signatures and effects on cholesterol metabolism were not apparent for the oxidized form of CoQ10. In conclusion, the reduced form of CoQ10 mediates distinct effects on cholesterol metabolism at the transcriptional and metabolite level in SAMP1 mice. © 2010 IUBMB IUBMB Life, 2010
Effect of pH on inactivation of Microcystis aeruginosa by ozonation air in sequencing batch reactor
Authors: Li Hongjing , Yao Chenchao , Dong Xiaoyun , Dong Wenbo , Fan Zhengqiu
Published: November 2010

In this study, a mixture of ozone and air (ozonation air for short) was adopted for the inactivation of Microcystis aeruginosa in a sequencing batch reactor (SBR). Scanning electron microscopy of Microcystis aeruginosa revealed damage to the cell wall and leakage of intracellular contents after ozone oxidation. Owing to the destruction of cells, the chlorophyll a released from the cells was degraded by ozone oxidation, which showed that chlorophyll a concentrations increased vastly during the first 5 min, then, decreased continuously. pH in the SBR declined with increasing time, reaching around 3.0 at the end of the cycle. It was observed that the removal efficiencies of chlorophyll a were, respectively, 68.4%, 74.5%, 86.7% and 77.9% after 90 min at pH 3.0, 7.0, 9.0 and 11.0 conditions, and the degradation of chlorophyll a accorded with the apparent first‐order kinetics. The results suggested that inactivation of Microcystis aeruginosa was successfully performed by ozone treatment, verifying the potential of this alternative process for the decontamination of eutrophic water. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
New details on the fine structure of the rhoptry of Toxoplasma gondii
Authors: Lemgruber Leandro , Lupetti Pietro , De Souza Wanderley , Vommaro Rossiane C.
Published: November 2010

Rhoptries are organelles that have important, complex roles in Apicomplexa biology. During Toxoplasma gondii infection, these organelles take part in several essential and complex processes that include host cell entry and parasite development. Using different electron microscopy techniques, we characterized the fine morphology of the rhoptries of two of the most important life stages of T. gondii: the tachyzoite and the bradyzoite forms. The observed tachyzoite and bradyzoite rhoptries had delimited regions characterized by a dark and electron‐dense neck, an amorphous and less electron‐dense bulb, and a region of intermediate electron density, which connects the bulb to the neck. Metal replicas of frozen‐fractured tachyzoites showed intramembranous particles of different densities and sizes on the fractured faces of rhoptry membranes. Both in tachyzoites and bradyzoites, the intramembranous particles were arranged in distinctive parallel arrays that decorated most part of these organelles. Tubulo‐vesicular subcompartments and free particles within the rhoptry lumen were observed on freeze‐fractured replicas. Cryo‐fixed, deep‐etched samples showed several pore‐like structures localized in the bulb portion. No obvious evidence was found of a possible connection between rhoptries and micronemes. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Energy dispersive X‐ray spectrometry study of the protective effects of fluoride varnish and gel on enamel erosion
Authors: De Carvalho Filho Antonio Carlos Belfort , Sanches Roberto Pizarro , Martin Airton Abrahão , Do Espírito Santo Ana Maria , Soares Luís Eduardo Silva
Published: November 2010

Background: Dental erosion is a risk factor for dental health, introduced by today's lifestyle. Topical fluoride applications in the form of varnishes and gel may lead to deposition of fluoride on enamel.

Purpose: This in vitro study aimed to evaluate the effect of two fluoride varnishes and one fluoride gel on the dissolution of bovine enamel by acids.

Methods: Enamel samples (72) were divided (n = 8): artificial saliva (control‐G1), Pepsi Twist® (G2), orange juice (G3), Duraphat® + Pepsi Twist® (G4), Duraphat® + orange juice (G5), Duofluorid® + Pepsi Twist® (G6), Duofluorid® + orange juice (G7), fluoride gel + Pepsi Twist® (G8), and fluoride gel + orange juice (G9). Fluoride gel was applied for 4 min and the varnishes were applied and removed after 6 h. The samples were submitted to six cycles (demineralization: Pepsi Twist® or orange juice, 10 min; remineralization: saliva, 1 h). Samples were analyzed by energy‐dispersive X‐ray fluorescence (144 line‐scanning).

Results: The amount of Ca and P decreased significantly in the samples of G2 and G3, and the Ca/P ratio decreased in G3. Mineral gain (Ca) was greater in G9 samples than in G4 > G3 > G5 > G1, and (P) greater in G7 samples than in G9 > G4‐6 > G2‐3.

Conclusions: The protective effect of Duofluorid® was significantly lower than fluoride gel against orange juice. The fluoride varnishes can interfere positively with the dissolution of dental enamel in the presence of acidic beverages. Fluoride gel showed the best protection level to extrinsic erosion with low costs. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Supporting children and young people in a changing world
Authors: Camfield Laura , Knowles Caroline
Published: November 2010

The editorial describes how the papers in the special issue engage with the views and experiences of children, as well as adults, to analyse the impact of social protection and social mobility through education and employment on their well‐being. It takes a slightly critical approach to concepts such as well‐being and agency—acknowledging that these frequently embrace their opposites—and highlights the value of mixed methods in exploring themes such as ‘voice and visibility’, schooling and work, and child poverty and outcomes. Finally, it draws out common conclusions and discusses their implications for policy and programme design. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Are children's perspectives valued in changing contexts? Revisiting a rights‐based evaluation in Nepal
Authors: Johnson Vicky
Published: November 2010

This paper examines how local action to reduce poverty and broader transformational change in the mountainous regions of Nepal has been informed by children's perspectives. In 2000, research was carried out with children to evaluate a local organisation's community development programme. The author revisited researchers, managers and former child club members in 2008 in order to explore how children's participation in rights‐based evaluation had translated into outcomes. With conflict and a changing understanding of rights within Nepal forming the backdrop, political and structural dimensions had to be considered to understand the changing lives of boys and girls. Children's perspectives in turn need to inform rights‐based policies and programmes to improve wellbeing and address social injustice. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
In the child's best interests? Legislation on children's work in Ethiopia
Authors: Orkin Kate
Published: November 2010

An abolitionist approach to children's work bans all work; a regulatory approach bans harmful work and regulates other work. I argue for a regulatory approach, using the ‘least restrictive’ alternative test applied in law. I contend, however, that definitions of harmful work must be appropriate to local contexts and informed by working children's views. I support this with a case study of a village in Ethiopia where the current abolitionist approach is overly restrictive. However, a regulatory approach based on international definitions of harmful work would probably not protect children in the case study village against some harmful work. Children and parents in the village are able to define harmful work more precisely than international definitions, suggesting that locally specific definitions developed with working children should form the basis of regulatory legislation. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Are we really measuring what we think we're measuring? Assessing attitudes towards destinations with the implicit association test
Authors: Kim Dae‐Young , Chen Zhijian , Hwang Yeong‐Hyeon
Published: November 2010

The study examines individuals' attitudes toward destinations by comparing the results of traditional self‐report surveys with those of the implicit association test (IAT). A total of 84 college students (30 Caucasian, 27 Chinese and 27 Korean) were employed to complete self‐report surveys and computer‐based IATs. The results show that participants' attitudes toward selected destinations (i.e. China and England) vary depending on which of the two different attitude measures is employed. Specifically, it appears that attitudes toward the two countries are not significantly different in self‐report survey, but differences in attitudes are significant in the IAT. This result indicates that greater use of the IAT would enhance our understanding of tourist responses, particularly those related to ability and willingness issues. The implications of the IAT results for tourism destination studies and its relation to explicit measures of attitudes are discussed. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Towards the Actual Relationship Between NP and Exponential Time
Authors: Lischke Gerhard
Published: November 2010

We consider the relationship between the computational complexity classes NP and EL (deterministic exponential linear time). Taking into account the inclusion or incomparability of these classes, the existence or nonexistence of immune sets in their differences, and the existence or nonexistence of sparse sets in the differences, there are exactly 24 different cases for their relationship. We show that 16 cases are impossible in the real nonrelativized world as well as in any relativized world. Each of the remaining 8 cases is realizable in appropriate relativized worlds. Further we examine which of the 8 cases is most probably for a random oracle.
Relatives of the Russell Paradox
Authors: Doets Kees
Published: November 2010

A formula ϕ(x) in the one non‐logical symbol ϵ with one free variable x is Russell if the sentence Vχ(χ ϵ τ ⟷ Φ (χ)) is logically valid. This note describes a pattern common to the classical examples of Russell formulas, adds a couple of new ones, and constructs many formulas that are near‐Russell.
Weak‐operator Continuity and the Existence of Adjoints
Authors: Bridges Douglas , Dediu Luminita
Published: November 2010

It is shown, within constructive mathematics, that the unit ball B1(H) of the set of bounded operators on a Hilbert space H is weak‐operator totally bounded. This result is then used to prove that the weak‐operator continuity of the mapping T → AT on B1(H) is equivalent to the existence of the adjoint of A.
Algebraic Characterizations for Universal Fragments of Logic
Authors: Elgueta Raimon
Published: November 2010

In this paper we address our efforts to extend the well‐known connection in equational logic between equational theories and fully invariant congruences to other–possibly infinitary–logics. In the special case of algebras, this problem has been formerly treated by H. J. Hoehnke [10] and R. W. Quackenbush [14]. Here we show that the connection extends at least up to the universal fragment of logic. Namely, we establish that the concept of (infinitary) universal theory matches the abstract notion of fully invariant system. We also prove that, inside this wide group of theories, the ones which are strict universal Horn correspond to fully invariant closure systems, whereas those which are universal atomic can be characterized as principal fully invariant systems.
Self‐similar structure on intersection of homogeneous symmetric Cantor sets
Authors: Li Wenxia , Yao Yuanyuan , Zhang Yunxiu
Published: November 2010

For a homogeneous symmetric Cantor set C, we consider all real numbers tsuch that the intersection C∩(C + t)is a self‐similar set and investigate the form of the corresponding iterated function systems. © 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim
Distance geometry in quasihypermetric spaces. II
Authors: Nickolas Peter , Wolf Reinhard
Published: November 2010

Let (X, d) be a compact metric space and let ${\cal M}(X)$ denote the space of all finite signed Borel measures on X. Define \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\pagestyle{empty}\begin{document}$I :{\cal M}(X)\rightarrow {\mathbb R}$\end{document} by I(μ) = ∫X∫Xd(x, y) dμ(x)dμ(y), and set $M(X) = \sup I(\mu)$, where μ ranges over the collection of signed measures in ${\cal M}(X)$ of total mass 1. This paper, with an earlier and a subsequent paper [Peter Nickolas and Reinhard Wolf, Distance geometry in quasihypermetric spaces. I and III], investigates the geometric constant M(X) and its relationship to the metric properties of X and the functional‐analytic properties of a certain subspace of ${\cal M}(X)$ when equipped with a natural semi‐inner product. Using the work of the earlier paper, this paper explores measures which attain the supremum defining M(X), sequences of measures which approximate the supremum when the supremum is not attained and conditions implying or equivalent to the finiteness of M(X). © 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim
Stochastic Proximity Embedding: Methods and Applications
Authors: Agrafiotis Dimitris K. , Xu Huafeng , Zhu Fangqiang , Bandyopadhyay Deepak , Liu Pu
Published: November 2010

Since its inception in 1996, the stochastic proximity embedding (SPE) algorithm and its variants have been applied to a wide range of problems in computational chemistry and biology with notable success. At its core, SPE attempts to generate Euclidean coordinates for a set of points so that they satisfy a prescribed set of geometric constraints. The algorithm’s appeal rests on three factors: 1) its conceptual and programmatic simplicity; 2) its superior speed and scaling properties; and 3) its broad applicability. Here, we review some of the key applications, outline known limitations and ways to circumvent them, and highlight additional problem domains where the use of this technique could lead to significant breakthroughs.
Can modifications to the bedroom environment improve the sleep of new parents? Two randomized controlled trials
Authors: Lee Kathryn A. , Gay Caryl L.
Published: November 2010

Postpartum sleep disruption is common among new parents. In this randomized controlled trial we evaluated a modified sleep hygiene intervention for new parents (infant proximity, noise masking, and dim lighting) in anticipation of night‐time infant care. Two samples of new mothers (n = 118 and 122) were randomized to the experimental intervention or attention control, and sleep was assessed in late pregnancy and first 3 months postpartum using actigraphy and the General Sleep Disturbance Scale. The sleep hygiene strategies evaluated did not benefit the more socioeconomically advantaged women or their partners in Sample 1, but did improve postpartum sleep among the less advantaged women of Sample 2. Simple changes to the bedroom environment can improve sleep for new mothers with few resources. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 34:7–19, 2011
Do motor vehicle advertisements that promote vehicle performance attributes also promote undesirable driving behaviour?
Authors: Donovan Robert John , Fielder Lynda , Ouschan Robyn
Published: November 2010

In response to concerns that motor vehicle advertising may have a negative influence on audiences' driving attitudes, many countries have adopted Codes of Ethics with respect to motor vehicle advertising. Most Codes restrict explicit depictions relating to power, speed and acceleration but do not necessarily identify when advertisements implicitly communicate these and other undesired messages about unsafe driving behaviours. We selected three motor vehicle advertisements containing depictions of vehicular behaviour such as fast driving and rapid acceleration that had been the subject of complaints to the Australian Advertising Standards Board. We exposed these advertisements to n = 463 14–55 year olds. All three advertisements were found to promote positive expectancies about undesirable driving behaviours. These data confirm the rationale for motor vehicle advertising Codes but identify faults in applying the Codes; namely that the Advertising Standards Board upheld complaints about only one of the advertisements whereas viewer perceptions indicate that all three breached the Australian Code. There is a need to include mechanisms other than simple observation to assess whether undesirable messages are being communicated in motor vehicle advertisements.

Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.