bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of Polystyrene‐block‐Polyethylene Oxide Diblock Copolymers and Blends of Homopolymers by Liquid Chromatography at Critical Conditions (LCCC)
Authors: Sinha Pritish , Grabowsky Monika , Malik Muhammad Imran , Harding Gareth William , Pasch Harald
Published: April 2012

In the present study, diblock copolymers of PS‐b‐PEO synthesized by sequential living anionic polymerization as well as the blends of PS, PEO homopolymers will be investigated by using liquid chromatography at critical conditions. Critical conditions will be established for the PS block of the copolymer. At these conditions, the PS block is chromatographically invisible and does not contribute to retention so the block copolymer is separated according to the block length of the PEO block. At the critical conditions of PS, it is also possible to separate the PS homopolymer formed. The critical conditions will be established in such a way that the non‐critical PEO block elutes in size exclusion chromatography (SEC) mode.
Facile backbone (1H, 15N, 13Ca, and 13C′) assignment of 13C/15N‐labeled proteins using orthogonal projection planes of HNN and HN(C)N experiments and its automation
Authors: Kumar Dinesh , Borkar Aditi , Hosur Ramakrishna V.
Published: April 2012

Recently, we introduced an efficient high‐throughput protocol for backbone assignment of small folded proteins based on two‐dimensional (2D) projections of HN(C)N suite of experiments and its automation [Borkar et al., J. Biomol. NMR 2011, 50(3), 285–297]. This strategy provides complete sequence‐specific assignment of backbone (1H, 15N, 13Cα, and 13C′) resonances in less than a day; thus, it has great implications for high‐throughput structural proteomics. However, in cases when such small folded protein exhibits substantial amide 1H shift degeneracy (typically seen in alpha‐helical proteins), the strategy may fail or lead to ambiguities. Another limitation is with respect to the identification of checkpoints from the variants of 2D‐hncNH spectrum. For example, a protein with many GG, GA, AA, SS, TS, TT, and TS types of dipeptide stretches along its sequence, thus the identification of NH cross‐peak corresponding to second G, A, S, or T becomes difficult. In this backdrop, we present here two improvements to enhance the utility of the proposed high‐throughput AUTOmatic Backbone Assignment protocol: (i) use of 2D‐hNnH spectrum and its variants that display additional 1H–15N correlations and thus help to resolve ambiguities arising because of amide 1H shift degeneracy and (ii) optimization of the τCN delay in the 2D‐hncNH experiment that, when properly adjusted, is observed to help remove ambiguities in the identification of the checkpoints. These improvements have also been incorporated in the automation program AUTOmatic Backbone Assignment. Finally, the performance of the strategy and the automation has been demonstrated using the chicken SH3 domain protein. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Combined experimental–theoretical NMR study on 2,5‐bis(5‐aryl‐3‐hexylthiophen‐2‐yl)‐thiazolo[5,4‐d]thiazole derivatives for printable electronics
Authors: Van Mierloo S. , Liégeois V. , Kudrjasova J. , Botek E. , Lutsen L. , Champagne B. , Vanderzande D. , Adriaensens P. , Maes W.
Published: April 2012

Four 2,5‐bis(5‐aryl‐3‐hexylthiophen‐2‐yl)thiazolo[5,4‐d]thiazole derivatives have been synthesized and thoroughly characterized. The extended aromatic core of the molecules was designed to enhance the charge transport characteristics, and solubilizing hexyl side chains were introduced on the thiophene subunits to enable possible integration of these semiconducting small molecules in printable electronics. Complete elucidation of the chemical structures by detailed one‐dimensional/two‐dimensional NMR spectroscopy is described, providing interesting input for chemical shift prediction software as well, because limited experimental data on these types of compounds are currently available. Furthermore, theoretical calculations have assisted experimental observations—giving support for the chemical shift assignment and providing a springboard for future screening and predictions—demonstrating the benefits of a coordinated theoretical–experimental approach. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Small‐tip fast recovery imaging using non‐slice‐selective tailored tip‐up pulses and radiofrequency‐spoiling
Authors: Nielsen Jon‐Fredrik , Yoon Daehyun , Noll Douglas C.
Published: April 2012

Small‐tip fast recovery (STFR) imaging is a new steady‐state imaging sequence that is a potential alternative to balanced steady‐state free precession. Under ideal imaging conditions, STFR may provide comparable signal‐to‐noise ratio and image contrast as balanced steady‐state free precession, but without signal variations due to resonance offset. STFR relies on a tailored “tip‐up,” or “fast recovery,” radiofrequency pulse to align the spins with the longitudinal axis after each data readout segment. The design of the tip‐up pulse is based on the acquisition of a separate off‐resonance (B0) map. Unfortunately, the design of fast (a few ms) slice‐ or slab‐selective radiofrequency pulses that accurately tailor the excitation pattern to the local B0 inhomogeneity over the entire imaging volume remains a challenging and unsolved problem. We introduce a novel implementation of STFR imaging based on “non‐slice‐selective” tip‐up pulses, which simplifies the radiofrequency pulse design problem significantly. Out‐of‐slice magnetization pathways are suppressed using radiofrequency‐spoiling. Brain images obtained with this technique show excellent gray/white matter contrast, and point to the possibility of rapid steady‐state T2/T1‐weighted imaging with intrinsic suppression of cerebrospinal fluid, through‐plane vessel signal, and off‐resonance artifacts. In the future, we expect STFR imaging to benefit significantly from parallel excitation hardware and high‐order gradient shim systems. Magn Reson Med, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis of shape memory polyurethane/clay nanocomposites and analysis of shape memory, thermal, and mechanical properties
Authors: Haghayegh M. , Mir Mohamad Sadeghi G.
Published: April 2012

In this study, shape memory polyurethane/clay nanocomposites were synthesized by using two‐step in situ polymerization. The effects of nanoparticle content on mechanical, thermal, and shape memory properties were studied. Soft and hard segments of polyurethanes were based on polycaprolactone (PCL) diol and 4,4′‐diphenylmethane diisocyanate/1,4‐butanediol molar ratio with 70/30, respectively. The differential scanning calorimetry, tensile test, dynamic mechanical thermal analysis, parallel plate rheometer, and X‐ray diffraction were used to evaluate the properties of the nanocomposites. To evaluate shape memory properties, a tensile device equipped with a thermal chamber was used. Glass transition temperature of soft segments has been increased by nanoclay loading. Addition of nanoclay to polyurethane matrix caused to disrupt ordering in hard domains, decrease in elongation and tensile strength. The results show that crystallinity of soft segments and dispersion of nanoparticles affect on the mechanical properties and shape memory behavior of nanocomposites, distinctly. Nanocomposite containing 1 wt% shows the best shape memory properties. POLYM. COMPOS., 2012. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers
Effects of chemotherapy during pregnancy on the maternal and fetal heart
Authors: Gziri Mina Mhallem , Amant Frédéric , Debiève Frédéric , Van Calsteren Kristel , De Catte Luc , Mertens Luc
Published: April 2012

Objective

The co‐occurrence of cancer and pregnancy is more frequently diagnosed. The effects of cancer treatment on maternal and fetal outcomes are less well known. The cardiotoxic effects of chemotherapy are a specific concern for the mother and fetus. We wanted to review the existing literature, mainly consisting of case reports, case studies, and retrospective data.

Results

Maternal effects

Overall, the published data indicate that pregnancy is not an independent risk factor influencing cancer survival. There is no indirect evidence for an increased risk for maternal chemotherapy‐related cardiotoxicity.

Fetal effects

During the first trimester chemotherapy needs to be avoided because of teratogenic risks. The risks of chemotherapy during the second and third trimester are more controversial. It has been associated with intrauterine growth restriction and preterm delivery in some studies, while others did not find the same effect. Cardiotoxic fetal effects have been reported despite the limited transplacental passage of chemotherapy. In most patients this was transient and long‐term data are generally reassuring.

Conclusion

A specific strategy for monitoring fetal and maternal chemotherapy‐induced cardiotoxicity is suggested. Prospective data are needed on the long‐term effects of chemotherapy in both mother and child. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Electron‐beam deposition of polyethylene composite coatings at various initiators and inhibitors
Authors: Liu Zhubo , Rogachev A.A. , Zhou Bing , Yarmolenko M.A. , Rogachev A.V. , Gorbachev D.L. , Jiang Xiaohong
Published: April 2012

Polyethylene (PE) composite coatings were prepared on silicon substrate by electron‐beam deposition (EBD) using mixed powders of low‐density polyethylene and various dopants (i.e., initiator and inhibitor) as evaporated target. The structural and morphological behaviors of PE composite coatings were investigated in dependence of initiator and inhibitor by attenuated total reflectance‐Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and atomic force microscope. Free‐radical polymerization and cationic polymerization could be observed in the formation process of PE composite coatings by EBD. The initiating system of AlCl3 and benzoyl peroxide as well as the inhibiting system of diphenylamine and hydroquinone used in EBD, in comparison with conventional synthesis methods, exhibited different effect on reaction mechanism of PE composite coatings. These results might contribute to the synthesis of polymer coatings with expectant molecule structure and controllable surface morphology. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2012. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers
Detecting impact toughness of polypropylene/poly(ethylene‐co‐octene) blends with various morphologies induced via chaotic and shear mixing
Authors: Li Ke , Huang Han‐Xiong
Published: April 2012

Both 80/20 and 60/40 polypropylene/poly(ethylene‐co‐octene) (PP/POE) blend samples were collected from four positions along a single‐screw extruder, which can induce chaotic and shear mixing, respectively. Results indicated that a wide range of impact strengths was obtained as the formation of series of phase morphologies. For the 80/20 blends, the impact strength increased gradually along the extruder with shear mixing due to gradual decrease of both diameter and size distribution coefficient of droplets. Whereas the impact strengths reached the highest value at about 2/3 length of the whole screw with chaotic mixing as the formation of lamellas, then decreased as their breakup. For the 60/40 blends, the impact strength reached the highest value as the formation of the thick fibrils with shear mixing; whereas the impact strength became higher at about 2/3 length of the whole screw as the formation of thin fibrils and the highest (69 times of that of pure PP) at the end of the screw due to the formation of cocontinuous structure with chaotic mixing. Observing the fractured surface of the tested sample with cocontinuous structure revealed that a distinct deformation of the PP matrix was induced by the shear yielding during impact testing. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2012. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers
Phosphoproteome profile of Fusarium graminearum grown in vitro under nonlimiting conditions
Authors: Rampitsch Christof , Tinker Nicholas A. , Subramaniam Rajagopal , Barkow‐Oesterreicher Simon , Laczko Endre
Published: April 2012

This study presents a high‐throughput proteomic analysis of phosphopeptides from Fusarium graminearum strain DAOM 233423 grown in vitro without nutritional limitation. Using a combination of strong cation exchange (SCX) and immobilized metal affinity chromatography (IMAC) followed by LC‐MS, we identified 2902 putative phosphopeptides with homologous matches to 1496 different proteins. Functional classification of the annotated protein set revealed that phosphopeptides from nuclear proteins with ATP‐binding function were the most abundant. There are indications that phosphorylation sites from well‐characterized phosphoproteins representing diverse biological processes are conserved in F. graminearum: sequences of three phosphopeptides from known phosphoproteins (transcription elongation factor 1β, acidic ribosomal proteins, and glycogen synthase) revealed phosphorylation site conservation.
Alternative Hotelling's T2 Charts using Winsorized Modified One‐Step M‐estimator
Authors: Haddad F. S. , Syed‐Yahaya S. S. , Alfaro J. L.
Published: April 2012

Hotelling's T2 chart is a popular tool for monitoring statistical process control. However, this chart is sensitive in the presence of outliers. To alleviate the problem, this paper proposed alternative Hotelling's T2 charts for individual observations using robust location and scale matrix instead of the usual mean vector and the covariance matrix, respectively. The usual mean vector in the Hotelling T2 chart is replaced by the winsorized modified one‐step M‐estimator (MOM) whereas the usual covariance matrix is replaced by the winsorized covariance matrix. MOM empirically trims the data based on the shape of the data distribution. This study also investigated on the different trimming criteria used in MOM. Two robust scale estimators with highest breakdown point, namely Sn and Tn were selected to suit the criteria. The upper control limits for the proposed robust charts were calculated based on simulated data. The performance of each control chart is based on the false alarm and the probability of outlier's detection. In general, the performance of an alternative robust Hotelling's T2 charts is better than the performance of the traditional Hotelling's T2 chart. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An analysis of unsupported triple and quadruple metal–metal bonds between two homonuclear group 6 transition elements based on the combined natural orbitals for chemical valence and extended transition state method
Authors: Ndambuki Sylvester , Ziegler Tom
Published: April 2012

We have applied a newly developed energy and density decomposition scheme to the study of unsupported multiple metal–metal bonds between two Group 6D transition elements. The new scheme combines the extended transition state (ETS) energy decomposition method (Ziegler and Rauk, Theor. Chim. Acta 1977, 46, 1) with the natural orbitals for chemical valence (NOCV) density decomposition theory (Michalak et al., J. Phys. Chem. A 2008, 112, 1933) within a single framework. The ETS–NOCV scheme is here applied to the quadruply metal–metal bonded complexes L2L′2MML2L′2(1σ2π4δ2) and L3MML3with a metal triple bond(1σ2π4). © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Local stability analysis and domain of attraction estimation for a class of uncertain nonlinear discrete‐time systems
Authors: Coutinho Daniel , de Souza Carlos E.
Published: April 2012

This paper proposes a linear matrix inequality based method for the estimation of domain of attraction for a class of discrete‐time nonlinear systems subject to uncertain constant parameters. Recursive algebraic representations of the system dynamics and of the Lyapunov stability conditions are applied to obtain convex conditions which guarantee the system robust local stability while providing an estimate of the domain of attraction. A large class of discrete‐time nonlinear systems and of Lyapunov functions can be embedded in the proposed methodology including the whole class of regular rational functions of the system state variable and uncertain parameters. Numerical examples illustrate the application of the proposed method. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Impaired Osteoblastogenesis in a Murine Model of Dominant Osteogenesis Imperfecta: A New Target for Osteogenesis Imperfecta Pharmacological Therapy
Authors: Gioia Roberta , Panaroni Cristina , Besio Roberta , Palladini Giovanni , Merlini Giampaolo , Giansanti Vincenzo , Scovassi Ivana A. , Villani Simona , Villa Isabella , Villa Anna , Vezzoni Paolo , Tenni Ruggero , Rossi Antonio , Marini Joan C. , Forlino Antonella
Published: April 2012

The molecular basis underlying the clinical phenotype in bone diseases is customarily associated with abnormal extracellular matrix structure and/or properties. More recently, cellular malfunction has been identified as a concomitant causative factor and increased attention has focused on stem cells differentiation. Classic osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a prototype for heritable bone dysplasias: it has dominant genetic transmission and is caused by mutations in the genes coding for collagen I, the most abundant protein in bone. Using the Brtl mouse, a well-characterized knockin model for moderately severe dominant OI, we demonstrated an impairment in the differentiation of bone marrow progenitor cells toward osteoblasts. In mutant mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), the expression of early (Runx2 and Sp7) and late (Col1a1 and Ibsp) osteoblastic markers was significantly reduced with respect to wild type (WT). Conversely, mutant MSCs generated more colony-forming unit-adipocytes compared to WT, with more adipocytes per colony, and increased number and size of triglyceride drops per cell. Autophagy upregulation was also demonstrated in mutant adult MSCs differentiating toward osteogenic lineage as consequence of endoplasmic reticulum stress due to mutant collagen retention. Treatment of the Brtl mice with the proteasome inhibitor Bortezomib ameliorated both osteoblast differentiation in vitro and bone properties in vivo as demonstrated by colony-forming unit-osteoblasts assay and peripheral quantitative computed tomography analysis on long bones, respectively. This is the first report of impaired MSC differentiation to osteoblasts in OI, and it identifies a new potential target for the pharmacological treatment of the disorder.
Endocrine Surgeon‐Performed US Guided Thyroid FNAC is Accurate and Efficient
Authors: Al‐azawi Dhafir , Mann G. Bruce , Judson Rodney T. , Miller Julie A.
Published: April 2012

Background

Ultrasound guided fine needle aspiration cytology (US‐FNAC) is a key diagnostic technique used to assess thyroid nodules. This procedure has been the domain of radiologists, but it is increasingly performed by endocrine surgeons. In the present study we aimed to assess the accuracy and clinical efficiency of US‐FNAC performed by endocrine surgeons.

Patients and Methods

This study was a retrospective review of consecutive patients in a 3‐year period who underwent US‐FNAC performed by endocrine surgeons and radiologists. Medical records, cytology results, and surgical pathology results were collected and analyzed.

Results

A total of 576 US‐FNAC were performed on 402 patients during the study period. The endocrine surgeons and radiologists performed 299 and 277 US‐FNAC, respectively. The FNAC inadequacy rate was 5.3 % for the endocrine surgeons and 9.3 % for the radiologists (p = 0.05). For thyroid cancer, the sensitivity, specificity, and false negatives of the US‐FNAC for the endocrine surgeons was 87 %, 98 %, and 3 %, respectively while that for the radiologists was 88 %, 95 %, and 3.5 %, respectively. Patients with thyroid cancer had a shorter time to surgery in the endocrine surgeons’ group (mean 15.3 days) compared to the radiologists’ group (mean: 53.3 days; p = 0.01).

Conclusions

US‐FNAC performed by an experienced endocrine surgeon is accurate and allows efficient surgical management for patients with thyroid cancer.
Improved trehalose production from biodiesel waste using parent and osmotically sensitive mutant of Propionibacterium freudenreichii subsp. shermanii under aerobic conditions
Authors: Ruhal Rohit , Choudhury Bijan
Published: April 2012

Trehalose is an important nutraceutical of wide commercial interest in the food processing industry. Recently, crude glycerol was reported to be suitable for the production of trehalose using a food microbe, Propionibacterium freudenreichii subsp. shermanii, under static flask conditions. Similarly, enhanced trehalose yield was reported in an osmotically sensitive mutant of the same strain under anaerobic conditions. In the present study, an effort was made to achieve higher production of trehalose, propionic acid, and lactic acid using the parent and an osmotically sensitive mutant of P. freudenreichii subsp. shermanii under aeration conditions. Under aeration conditions (200 rpm in shake flasks and 30 % air saturation in a batch reactor), biomass was increased and approximately 98 % of crude glycerol was consumed. In the parent strain, a trehalose titre of 361 mg/l was achieved, whereas in the mutant strain a trehalose titre of 1.3 g/l was produced in shake flask conditions (200 rpm). In the mutant strain, propionic and lactic acid yields of 0.53 and 0.21 g/g of substrate were also achieved with crude glycerol. Similarly, in controlled batch reactor culturing conditions a final trehalose titre of approximately 1.56 g/l was achieved with the mutant strain using crude glycerol as the substrate. Enhanced production of trehalose using P. freudenreichii subsp. shermanii from waste under aeration conditions is reported here. Higher production of trehalose was not due to a higher yield of trehalose but to a higher final biomass concentration.
Dimer interface rearrangement of the 6‐phosphofructo‐2‐kinase/fructose 2,6‐bisphosphatase rat liver isoenzyme by cAMP‐dependent Ser‐32 phosphorylation
Authors: Langer Sara , Okar David A. , Schultz Julia , Lenzen Sigurd , Baltrusch Simone
Published: April 2012

PFK‐2/FBPase‐2 physically interacts with PFK‐2/FBPase‐2 by two hybrid (View interaction)
Leucine‐rich repeat, immunoglobulin‐like and transmembrane domain 3 (LRIT3) is a modulator of FGFR1
Authors: Kim Sun-Don , Liu Jia Lie , Roscioli Tony , Buckley Michael F. , Yagnik Garima , Boyadjiev Simeon A. , Kim Jinoh
Published: April 2012

Fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFRs) play critical roles in craniofacial and skeletal development via multiple signaling pathways including MAPK, PI3K/AKT, and PLC‐γ. FGFR‐mediated signaling is modulated by several regulators. Proteins with leucine‐rich repeat (LRR) and/or immunoglobulin (IG) superfamily domains have been suggested to interact with FGFRs. In addition, fibronectin leucine‐rich repeat transmembrane protein 3 (FLRT3) has been shown to modulate the FGFR‐mediated signaling via the fibronectin type III (FNIII) domain. Therefore proteins with LRR, IG, and FNIII are candidate regulators of the FGFRs. Here we identify leucine‐rich repeat, immunoglobulin‐like and transmembrane domain 3 (LRIT3) as a regulator of the FGFRs.
The anti‐atherosclerotic di‐peptide, Trp‐His, inhibits the phosphorylation of voltage‐dependent L‐type Ca2+ channels in rat vascular smooth muscle cells
Authors: Kobayashi Yutaro , Fukuda Toshihiko , Tanaka Mitsuru , Matsui Toshiro
Published: April 2012

Trp‐His is the only vasoactive di‐peptide known to regulate intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) and prevent the onset of atherosclerosis in mice. In this study, we showed that Trp‐His reduced the [Ca2+]i elevation in phospholipase C‐activated vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), while a mixture of the corresponding constituent amino acids did not show significant reduction. Furthermore, Trp‐His suppressed calmodulin‐dependent kinase II (CaMK II) activity in angiotensin II‐stimulated VSMCs, resulting in the inhibition of phosphorylation of voltage‐dependent L‐type Ca2+ channels (VDCC). Therefore, Trp‐His potentially regulates the VDCC phosphorylation cascade through Ca2+‐CaM/CaMK II.
A 1000-yr record of environmental change in NE China indicated by diatom assemblages from maar lake Erlongwan
Authors: Wang Luo , Rioual Patrick , Panizzo Virginia N. , Lu Houyuan , Gu Zhaoyan , Chu Guoqiang , Yang Deguang , Han Jingtai , Liu Jiaqi , Mackay Anson W.
Published: April 2012

Past environmental changes based on diatom relative abundances have been inferred from the maar Lake Erlongwan in northeast China. The limnology of Lake Erlongwan is affected by the strongly seasonal regional climate. The composition of diatom assemblages, in turn, responds to changes in the seasonal duration of ice cover in winter, water-column turnover in spring and autumn, and thermal stratification in summer. Statistical analysis of the sedimentary diatom assemblages reveals three significant stratigraphic zones over the past 1000 yr. The highest abundance of the planktonic speciesDiscostellaspecies occurs between AD 1050 and 1400 and suggests an annual ice-free period of long duration and well-developed summer stratification of the water column. This planktonic diatom peak between ca. AD 1150 and 1200 suggests that this period was the warmest over the past 1000 yr. The interval between AD 1400 and 1800 is marked by a decline in planktonic diatoms and suggests shorter duration of the ice-free season, weaker water stratification and possibly generally cold conditions. After AD 1800 relative abundances of planktonic diatoms, includingPuncticulata praetermissaandAsterionella formosa, increase again, which indicates lengthening of the duration of the annual ice-free period and a stronger overturn of the water column. All these data imply that the pattern of the seasons is different between the MWP and the 20th century.
Secondary repair of an oblique facial cleft with an absorbable mesh tray and particulate cancellous bone and marrow
Authors: Sugiyama Madoka , Saijo Hideto , Kazuto Hoshi , Ohkubo Kazumi , Mori Yoshiyuki , Takato Tsuyoshi
Published: April 2012

Oblique facial cleft is an extremely rare disorder, accounting for only 0.24% of facial clefts. Even after initial surgery, depressions of the eyeball and facial surface are formed due to bone defects of the maxilla and orbital floor, and since performing bone reconstruction during infancy and early childhood is difficult, pronounced deformity tends to persist. We report our experience with using an absorbable mesh tray together with particulate cancellous bone and marrow for secondary repair by means of bone reconstruction in a 4‐year‐old girl, achieving good results at a young age.
Natural drinking strategies
Authors: Kim Wonjung , Bush John W. M.
Published: April 2012

We examine the fluid mechanics of drinking in nature. We classify the drinking strategies of a broad range of creatures according to the principal forces involved, and present physical pictures for each style. Simple scaling arguments are developed and tested against existing data. While suction is the most common drinking strategy, various alternative styles have evolved among creatures whose morphological, physiological and environmental constraints preclude it. Particular attention is given to creatures small relative to the capillary length, whose drinking styles rely on relatively subtle interfacial effects. We also discuss attempts to rationalize various drinking strategies through consideration of constrained optimization problems. Some biomimetic applications are discussed.
Stratified wake of a tilted cylinder. Part 2. Lee internal waves
Authors: Meunier Patrice
Published: April 2012

This experimental, numerical and theoretical study considers the lee internal waves generated by the wake of a circular cylinder, whose axis is tilted with respect to a stable density gradient. The main difference with the case of a horizontal cylinder is that the lee waves contain a large axial velocity, which are located in a row of lobes extending downstream from the cylinder. At small tilt angles, the wavelength is equal to $2\lrm{\pi} U/ N$, $U$ being the velocity of the cylinder and $N$ the Brunt–Väisälä frequency, which can be explained by the fact that the group velocity of the waves is small. The amplitude of the waves can be predicted using the Lighthill theory for dispersive waves applied to the case of a tilted bluff body. The flow around the cylinder is modelled empirically in order to reach a quantitative prediction in good agreement with the experimental and numerical results. The spatial structure of the predicted internal waves is qualitatively correct although some discrepancies arise because the advection by the flow around the cylinder is neglected.
Cuticular hydrocarbons discriminate cryptic Macrolophus species (Hemiptera: Miridae)
Authors: Gemeno C. , Laserna N. , Riba M. , Valls J. , Castañé C. , Alomar O.
Published: April 2012

Macrolophus pygmaeus is commercially employed in the biological control of greenhouse and field vegetable pests. It is morphologically undistinguishable from the cryptic species M. melanotoma, and this interferes with the evaluation of the biological control activity of M. pygmaeus. We analysed the potential of cuticular hydrocarbon composition as a method to discriminate the two Macrolophus species. A third species, M. costalis, which is different from the other two species by having a dark spot at the tip of the scutellum, served as a control. Sex, diet and species, all had significant effects in the cuticular hydrocarbon profiles, but the variability associated to sex or diet was smaller than among species. Discriminant quadratic analysis of cuticular hydrocarbons confirmed the results of previous molecular genetic studies and showed, using cross-validation methods, that M. pygmaeus can be discriminated from M. costalis and M. melanotoma with prediction errors of 6.75% and 0%, respectively. Therefore, cuticular hydrocarbons can be used to separate M. pygmaeus from M. melanotoma reliably.
Evidence-based medicine: quality and comparability of clinical trials investigating the efficacy of prostaglandin F2α for the treatment of bovine endometritis
Authors: Haimerl Peggy , Arlt Sebastian , Heuwieser Wolfgang
Published: April 2012

The objective of this study was to evaluate the quality and comparability of published literature, and to summarize the effect of prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) for the treatment of endometritis. It has been postulated that there is a dearth of high-level evidence-based research results in veterinary medicine. Also, there is a marked variation in the quality of studies in veterinary and animal science. Post-partum uterine infections occur commonly in dairy cattle and are reported to have a negative impact on reproductive performance. A comprehensive literature search was conducted utilizing online databases revealing a total of 2723 references. After applying specific exclusion criteria, a total of 68 trials were eligible for further analysis. These articles were evaluated utilizing specific parameters listed in an evaluation form such as randomization and the involvement of control groups. The analysis revealed that more than half of the trials (51·5%) were at least 20 years old. Furthermore, we found that about one third (36·8%) of all trials were controlled and randomized, while 3 of those (4·4%) were also blinded. Of those trials which calculated a calving-to-conception interval (n=30), 50% of the authors claimed an improvement, which was statistically significant in 23·3% of the cases. We conclude that there is a wide discrepancy between research results investigating the efficacy of PGF2α.
Diamagnetic drift instabilities in collisional non-uniform quantum dusty magnetoplasmas
Authors: JAMIL M. , UZMA CH. , ZUBIA K. , ZEBA I. , RAFIQUE H. M. , SALIMULLAH M.
Published: April 2012

Dust-acoustic and dust-lower-hybrid diamagnetic drift wave instabilities have been examined in a collisional non-uniform quantum dusty magnetoplasma. The dust-acoustic drift instability arises through the Fermi degenerate pressure of electrons for a high-density plasma, while for a relatively low-density collisional quantum plasma and short wavelength consideration, the instability is dominated by the Bohm potential effect exciting a new quantum dust-acoustic wave. In the long-range wavelength limit, dust-lower-hybrid waves are found to be unstable because of the diamagnetic drift of magnetized ions. Various possible instability conditions are found for diamagnetic drift instability.
Measure-theoretic rigidity for Mumford curves
Authors: CORNELISSEN GUNTHER , KOOL JANNE
Published: April 2012

One can describe isomorphism of two compact hyperbolic Riemann surfaces of the same genus by a measure-theoretic property: a chosen isomorphism of their fundamental groups corresponds to a homeomorphism on the boundary of the Poincaré disc that is absolutely continuous for Lebesgue measure if and only if the surfaces are isomorphic. In this paper, we find the corresponding statement for Mumford curves, a non-Archimedean analogue of Riemann surfaces. In this case, the mere absolute continuity of the boundary map (for Schottky uniformization and the corresponding Patterson–Sullivan measure) only implies isomorphism of the special fibers of the Mumford curves, and the absolute continuity needs to be enhanced by a finite list of conditions on the harmonic measures on the boundary (certain non-Archimedean distributions constructed by Schneider and Teitelbaum) to guarantee an isomorphism of the Mumford curves. The proof combines a generalization of a rigidity theorem for trees due to Coornaert, the existence of a boundary map by a method of Floyd, with a classical theorem of Babbage, Enriques and Petri on equations for the canonical embedding of a curve.
Furstenberg’s structure theorem via CHART groups
Authors: MOORS WARREN B. , NAMIOKA ISAAC
Published: April 2012

We give an almost self-contained group theoretic proof of Furstenberg’s structure theorem as generalized by Ellis: each minimal compact distal flow is the result of a transfinite sequence of equicontinuous extensions, and their limits, starting from a flow consisting of a singleton. The groups that we use are CHART groups, and their basic properties are recalled at the beginning of the paper.
Extensive bounds on the topological entropy of repellers in piecewise expanding coupled map lattices
Authors: COUTINHO RICARDO , FERNANDEZ BASTIEN
Published: April 2012

Beyond the uncoupled regime, the rigorous description of the dynamics of (piecewise) expanding coupled map lattices remains largely incomplete. To address this issue, we study repellers of periodic chains of linearly coupled Lorenz-type maps which we analyze by means of symbolic dynamics. Whereas all symbolic codes are admissible for sufficiently small coupling intensity, when the interaction strength exceeds a chain length independent threshold, we prove that a large bunch of codes is pruned and an extensive decay follows suit for the topological entropy. This quantity, however, does not immediately drop off to 0. Instead, it is shown to be continuous at the threshold and to remain extensively bounded below by a positive number in a large part of the expanding regime. The analysis is firstly accomplished in a piecewise affine setting where all calculations are explicit and is then extended by continuation to coupled map lattices based on$C^1$-perturbations of the individual map.
Resilience as a dynamic concept
Authors: Rutter Michael
Published: April 2012

The concept of resilience has as its starting point the recognition that there is huge heterogeneity in people's responses to all manner of environmental adversities. Resilience is an inference based on evidence that some individuals have a better outcome than others who have experienced a comparable level of adversity; moreover, the negative experience may have either a sensitizing effect or a strengthening “steeling” effect in relation to the response to later stress or adversity. After noting the crucial importance of first testing for the environmental mediation of risk through “natural experiments,” findings are reviewed on “steeling effects” in animal models and humans. Gene–environment interaction findings are considered, and it is noted that there is some evidence that the genetic influences concerns responsivity to all environments and not just bad ones. Life course effects are reviewed in relation to evidence on turning point effects associated with experiences that increase opportunities and enhance coping. Attention is drawn to both research implications and substantive findings as features that foster resilience.
Biologically flavored perspectives on Garmezian resilience
Authors: Hanson Daniel R. , Gottesman Irving I.
Published: April 2012

Norman Garmezy devoted the better part of four decades developing and promoting the construct of resilience for developmental psychopathology. He proposed resilience as a paradigm to guide the understanding of how people can transcend adversity and go on to live healthy, productive lives. This tribute to Norman starts with a look at the early context for his work during his distinguished tenure in the Department of Psychology at the University of Minnesota. Resilience constructs are then compared from interdisciplinary perspectives across a variety of biological and physical sciences. All of these perspectives lead to similar conclusions: resilience is not a thing but a process. Furthermore, the processes are the product of energy-hungry systems. Finally, these insights are applied to difficult to modify maladaptive behaviors raising the question of a dark side to resilience.
Adapting to aging out: Profiles of risk and resilience among emancipated foster youth
Authors: Yates Tuppett M. , Grey Izabela K.
Published: April 2012

This investigation employed latent profile analysis to identify distinct patterns of multiform competence among 164 emancipated foster youth (Mage = 19.67 years, SD = 1.12; 64% female). Fit indices and conceptual interpretation converged on a four-profile solution. A subset of emancipated youth evidenced a maladaptive profile (16.5%; n = 27), which was characterized by low educational competence, low occupational competence, low civic engagement, problematic interpersonal relationships, low self-esteem, and high depressive symptoms. However, the largest group of emancipated youth exhibited a resilient profile in which they were faring reasonably well in all domains despite marked adversity (47%; n = 77). Two additional groups evidenced discordant adjustment patterns wherein they exhibited high levels of psychological competence despite behavioral difficulties (i.e., internally resilient; 30%; n = 49) or significant emotional difficulties despite manifest competence (i.e., externally resilient; 6.5%; n = 11). The obtained profiles were validated against independent measures of behavioral and socioemotional adjustment. Exploratory analyses examined etiological differences across profiles with respect to child welfare variables, such as age at entry into care, placement disruption, reason for placement, and severity of child maltreatment. The findings highlight the need for multidimensional models of risk and resilience and illustrate the importance of heretofore underappreciated heterogeneity in the adaptive outcomes of emancipated foster youth.
Resilience in the transition to adulthood
Authors: Burt Keith B. , Paysnick Amy A.
Published: April 2012

The emerging adulthood years, commonly defined as the late teens and twenties, represent a period of significant variability and change for much of the population. Thus, it is important for the field to consider pathways of at-risk youth as they move through this key window of development. We review research on positive outcomes in the transition to adulthood following a history of experienced adversity, including both investigations focused on resilience in diverse specific populations as well as broader longitudinal studies. There is compelling evidence for major protective and promotive factors identified in younger age periods continuing to exert an influence at this stage of development, along with evidence for new factors unique to this developmental time and/or to specific populations. We conclude by noting recommendations for future work in this area, emphasizing Garmezy's call for the testing of competing models.
In their own words: The experience of mothering as a survivor of childhood sexual abuse
Authors: Wright Margaret O'Dougherty , Fopma-Loy Joan , Oberle Katherine
Published: April 2012

This article reviews past research on the parenting characteristics of childhood sexual abuse survivors and presents the results of a qualitative study exploring the women's perspectives on mothering as a survivor. Grounded theory was used in the collection and analysis of the data. Data sources included the narrative responses of 79 women (mean age = 38.2 years) and in-depth interviews of a purposive sample of 15 women (mean age = 39 years). They had an average of 2.2 children, ranging in age from 5 months to young adulthood. The theoretical model identified through analysis of data using the constant comparison method was entitled “The Hard Work of Mothering as a Survivor.” Processes emerged that described the ways participants managed the work of mothering in light of memories of the abuse and attempts to heal from this earlier trauma. The conditions for committing to the work included becoming aware of and accepting the reality of the abuse and how it affected one's life, and taking on the hard work of developing a mothering self. This included expanding awareness, developing and evaluating a personal model of mothering, navigating typical and abuse salient parenting challenges, mothering through the pain of recovery, and battling for balance. The findings highlighted the dynamic, multifaceted nature of recovery and resilience for these mothers and the need for an increased focus on parenting in counseling with childhood sexual abuse survivors. Provision of anticipatory guidance regarding commonly experienced stressors at varying stages of the child's development and the mother's stage of recovery and methods for coping with these challenges, would benefit these mothers and promote parenting competence. Specific implications for psychotherapy and directions for future research are discussed.
Changes in adolescents' risk factors following peer sexual coercion: Evidence for a feedback loop
Authors: Young Brennan J. , Furman Wyndol , Jones Meredith C.
Published: April 2012

Investigators have identified a number of factors that increase the risk for experiencing sexual coercion, but as yet little is known about how sexual coercion in turn affects these risk factors. Using a sample of 110 adolescents, the current study examined the hypothesis that, after an incident of sexual coercion, adolescents would exhibit increases in several behaviors known to increase risk for victimization. As predicted, after experiencing sexual coercion, adolescents reported increased externalizing symptoms, more frequent sexual intercourse and a greater total number of intercourse partners. Finally, alcohol use, drug use, and problems related to substance use increased. These findings suggest the presence of a feedback loop, in which the experience of sexual coercion leads to an intensification of the factors that initially contributed risk for coercion.
Personality of parents with bipolar disorder and interpersonal functioning among their offspring: A prospective 10-year study
Authors: Ostiguy Caroline S. , Ellenbogen Mark A. , Hodgins Sheilagh
Published: April 2012

A comparison of offspring of parents with bipolar disorder (OBD) and offspring of parents with no mental disorder (ONMD) showed that parents' neuroticism was associated with internalizing and externalizing problems among their children. The present study examined whether parents' neuroticism predicted poor interpersonal functioning among offspring 10 years later and whether the problems observed in middle childhood mediated the association between parents' neuroticism and offspring functioning. When offspring were in middle childhood, parents completed the revised NEO Personality Inventory and rated the child's behavior on the Child Behavior Checklist. Ten years later, 65 OBD and 59 ONMD completed interviews assessing mental disorders and interpersonal and noninterpersonal functioning. High neuroticism and low agreeableness in parents predicted poor interpersonal functioning in their offspring in late adolescence–early adulthood. The offspring's externalizing and internalizing problems in middle childhood partially mediated the association between parents' personality and offspring interpersonal functioning. Moreover, the association between parents' neuroticism and offspring internalizing problems was stronger among the OBD than the ONMD. Overall, the results suggested an intergenerational transmission of risk whereby high neuroticism and low agreeableness in parents were associated with behavioral problems among offspring in middle childhood that, in turn, predicted poor interpersonal functioning 10 years later.
Different genetic components control coat-imposed and embryo-imposeddormancy in wheat
Authors: Flintham John E.
Published: April 2012

Wheat grain dormancy is a multigenic trait controlled both by R genes conferring red testa pigmentation and by other genes, at least one of which has a major effect in the embryo. Enhanced grain dormancy and red test colour are inherited as pleiotropic effects of dominant R alleles at triplicate loci in hexaploid wheat. However, polymorphism for R genes cannot account for the wide variation in dormancy observed among different redgrained varieties. A variety of different dominant R alleles all have equivalent effects on dormancy when introgressed into white-grained wheats, although the latter vary in dormancy both in the absence and in the presence of dominant R alleles. As a result, certain redgrained genotypes can exhibit intermediate dormancy, similar to that of some white-grained genotypes with different genetic backgrounds. A new major gene (Phs) was identified as controlling the difference between two red-grained cultivars with widely different dormancies. The Phs gene appeared to exert its effect in the embryo of the grain, in contrast to R gene expression in maternal testa tissue. Discrete genetic functions thus underlie physiologically distinct mechanisms of coatimposed dormancy and embryo-imposed dormancy in wheat