bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EXPANSION OF SUGARCANE ETHANOL PRODUCTION IN BRAZIL: ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL CHALLENGES
Authors: Martinelli Luiz A. , Filoso Solange
Published: May 2008

Several geopolitical factors, aggravated by worries of global warming, have been fueling the search for and production of renewable energy worldwide for the past few years. Such demand for renewable energy is likely to benefit the sugarcane ethanol industry in Brazil, not only because sugarcane ethanol has a positive energetic balance and relatively low production costs, but also because Brazilian ethanol has been successfully produced and used as biofuel in the country since the 1970s. However, environmental and social impacts associated with ethanol production in Brazil can become important obstacles to sustainable biofuel production worldwide. Atmospheric pollution from burning of sugarcane for harvesting, degradation of soils and aquatic systems, and the exploitation of cane cutters are among the issues that deserve immediate attention from the Brazilian government and international societies. The expansion of sugarcane crops to the areas presently cultivated for soybeans also represent an environmental threat, because it may increase deforestation pressure from soybean crops in the Amazon region. In this paper, we discuss environmental and social issues linked to the expansion of sugarcane in Brazil for ethanol production, and we provide recommendations to help policy makers and the Brazilian government establish new initiatives to produce a code for ethanol production that is environmentally sustainable and economically fair. Recommendations include proper planning and environmental risk assessments for the expansion of sugarcane to new regions such as Central Brazil, improvement of land use practices to reduce soil erosion and nitrogen pollution, proper protection of streams and riparian ecosystems, banning of sugarcane burning practices, and fair working conditions for sugarcane cutters. We also support the creation of a more constructive approach for international stakeholders and trade organizations to promote sustainable development for biofuel production in developing countries such as Brazil. Finally, we support the inclusion of environmental values in the price of biofuels in order to discourage excessive replacement of natural ecosystems such as forests, wetlands, and pasture by bioenergy crops.
Ferromagnesian silicate association in S-type granites: the Darongshan granitic complex (Guangxi, South China)
Authors: Charoy Bernard , Barbey Pierre
Published: May 2008

The late Indosinian Darongshan granite complex (Guangxi Province, South China) consists mainly of three plutons (Taima, Jiuzhou and Darongshan), with coarse-grained to subvolcanic rock types. There is a rough mineral evolution from the western to the eastern part of the complex, with ferromagnesian magmatic silicates sequentially distributed : Opx+Crd±Bt (Taima), Opx+Grt+Bt+Crd (Jiuzhou) and Bt+Crd (Darongshan). Restitic, cumulative or xenocrystic minerals (mainly Crd with fibrolite+spinel inclusions, Grt and probably Opx in some cases) are also encountered. Mineralogical, chemical and isotopic compositions of the granites suggest that the three plutons derive from a source dominated by a reduced, immature greywacke-psammite series, which has experienced high-amphibolite to granulite-facies metamorphism. This S-type granite complex is considered to result from various degrees of melting at different crustal levels by biotite dehydration-melting in a high T (800° to 950°C), low P (400–600 MPa) metamorphic environment. Abundant granulite-facies metasedimentary enclaves with refractory compositions are considered as xenoliths entrapped during magma ascent. The presence of scarce mafic microgranular enclaves and the high temperatures needed for melting could suggest that heat may have been partly contributed by mantle-derived magmas.
Age, depositional environment and stratigraphic value of the Cuccuru ’e Flores Conglomerate: insight into the Palaeogene to Early Miocene geodynamic evolution of Sardinia
Authors: Dieni Iginio , Massari Francesco , Médus Jacques
Published: May 2008

The Cuccuru ’e Flores Conglomerate of eastern Sardinia, a syntectonic unit lining major Cenozoic faults, has been dated by means of palynology at the early middle Lutetian. The deposits were mainly laid down by sediment gravity flows in a subaqueous setting and formed aprons of laterally interfingering debris cones at the toe of active tectonic scarps. Most clasts of rudites are of local provenance. Interestingly, the rudites include minor amounts of clasts of formations which no longer crop out in the area, providing important information on the reconstruction of the original stratigraphic succession and palaeogeography, especially during late Cretaceous and early Palaeogene times.

During the Eocene, i.e. in a pre-rotation stage, Sardinia was subjected to the influence of both Alpine and Pyrenean orogenic belts. In eastern Sardinia, the compressional stress field was consistent with that existing in the foreland of the Alpine chain in Corsica, and was expressed by significant wrench tectonics affecting the Variscan basement and the pre-Oligocene sedimentary cover. Deformations associated with major strike-slip faults, such as enéchelon folds and positive flower structures occurring in fault-restraining bends, suggest a shortening direction around N105° (in present-day coordinates).

A subsequent wrenching phase of Late Oligocene-Early Miocene age involved reactivation of former “Alpine” faults in a sharply different stress field. This tectonics reflects the intermediate position of the eastern Sardinia belt between the area affected by back-arc stretching (the Sardinian rift and the Liguro-Provençal basin) and the arcuate Apenninic subduction front active in a framework of left-lateral oblique plate convergence.
New Wasatch Discoveries Revive the Aging Rockhouse Field in the Uintah Basin
Authors: Larsen D.G. , Ryden M.
Published: May 2008

Since late 1995 renewed interest in the Rockhouse Field of the Uintah Basin has been driven by the remarkable success of an operator in the Wasatch gassands in Uintah County, Utah. The area of interest is located in 11 S 23E some50 miles S of Vernal, Utah.

United Utilities Corporation (United), a Vernal-based company, first drilled here in June 1995 and saw limited success on the Lapaglia # 1. Persistence paid off through the combined efforts of geologists, production engineers and stimulation design personnel to bring on five of the next seven wells with production ranging from 2.9 MMCFD (177 day average) to 8.2 MMCFD (23 day average). Multiple intervals of the Wasatch are providing the bulk of the hydrocarbon with some contribution from the Mesaverde. Challenges with zone selection, complex geology, water invasion and stimulation have been overcome to make this recent production a true anomaly in the area.

This paper will chronicle the recent events of this field and describe themethods and technology used to discover and recapture the enormous potential of this historic gas field.

Introduction

The Wasatch Formation has long been a source of hydrocarbons in the form of natural gas and erode oil in various parts of the Uintah Basin covering Uintahand Duchesne Counties, Utah. The gas play has been especially attractive through the years because of its occurrence at moderate depths (4000' –7000')and the infrastructure of gas transmission that has been laid in the Basin throughout the years. United saw that this horizon had potential in the Rock house gas field located in T11S, R23E, Uintah County, Utah, approximately 50 miles southeast of Vernal, Utah (Fig. 1). This area is bounded to the east and southeast by the Douglas Creek Arch and Uncompahgre Uplift, respectively. Tertiary and Cretaceous non-marine sandstones provide reservoirs for large volumes of natural gas in the southeastern portion of the Uintah Basin. The Oil Springs gas field lies to the southeast and the Natural Buttes oil and gas field lies to the northwest of the Rock house gas field.

An understanding of this gas play should include the history of the field, the deposition geology and the completion techniques used in the revival of the Rock house Field.
Selective Small-Molecule Agonists of G Protein–Coupled Receptor 40 Promote Glucose-Dependent Insulin Secretion and Reduce Blood Glucose in Mice
Authors: Tan Carina P. , Feng Yue , Zhou Yun-Ping , Eiermann George J. , Petrov Aleksandr , Zhou Changyou , Lin Songnian , Salituro Gino , Meinke Peter , Mosley Ralph , Akiyama Taro E. , Einstein Monica , Kumar Sanjeev , Berger Joel P. , Mills Sander G. , Thornberry Nancy A. , Yang Lihu , Howard Andrew D.
Published: May 2008

OBJECTIVE— Acute activation of G protein–coupled receptor 40 (GPR40) by free fatty acids (FFAs) or synthetic GPR40 agonists enhances insulin secretion. However, it is still a matter of debate whether activation of GPR40 would be beneficial for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, since chronic exposure to FFAs impairs islet function. We sought to evaluate the specific role of GPR40 in islets and its potential as a therapeutic target using compounds that specifically activate GPR40.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS— We developed a series of GPR40-selective small-molecule agonists and studied their acute and chronic effects on glucose-dependent insulin secretion (GDIS) in isolated islets, as well as effects on blood glucose levels during intraperitoneal glucose tolerance tests in wild-type and GPR40 knockout mice (GPR40−/−).

RESULTS— Small-molecule GPR40 agonists significantly enhanced GDIS in isolated islets and improved glucose tolerance in wild-type mice but not in GPR40−/− mice. While a 72-h exposure to FFAs in tissue culture significantly impaired GDIS in islets from both wild-type and GPR40−/− mice, similar exposure to the GPR40 agonist did not impair GDIS in islets from wild-type mice. Furthermore, the GPR40 agonist enhanced insulin secretion in perfused pancreata from neonatal streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats and improved glucose levels in mice with high-fat diet–induced obesity acutely and chronically.

CONCLUSIONS— GPR40 does not mediate the chronic toxic effects of FFAs on islet function. Pharmacological activation of GPR40 may potentiate GDIS in humans and be beneficial for overall glucose control in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Structural properties of silver iodide and copper iodide
Authors: Baghmar Deoshree , Gaur Neeraj , Gupta Dinesh , Singh Sadhana
Published: May 2008

The structural changes within the Silver iodide (AgI) and Copper iodide (CuI) induced by pressure have been investigated using an effective interaction potential. CuI and AgI in their parent zinc blende (ZnS) to rock salt (NaCl) through an intermediate structure have been reported. The calculated values for the phase transition pressures and associate volume collapses are generally in good agreement with measured data.
EELS analysis of internal metal – oxide interfaces
Authors: Heckl Oliver , Haider Ferdinand , Gegner Jürgen
Published: May 2008

The heterophase boundaries between precipitates such as spherical amorphous SiO particles inside a copper matrix as well as crystalline CuO precipitates inside a silver matrix and the surrounding metal matrix are examined with high spatial resolution using a scanning transmission electron microscope equipped with an electron energy loss spectrometer. Typical features of the electron energy loss near – edge fine structure of the oxygen O-K and of characteristic metal ionization edges allow determination of the bonding state of oxygen and thus detection of fine interlayers at the phase boundary. The results obtained are interpreted in a tentative way, supporting basic ideas of Kirchheim's structural vacancy model of oxygen segregation to metal – oxide interfaces. The model predicts that no interfacial accumulation of excess oxygen should occur to the phase boundary of amorphous precipitates. In Ag – Cu alloys there is the additional degree of freedom for the oxidation value of copper and we present indications that structural vacancies change the oxidation value at the phase boundary.
Interface width of immiscible layered elements
Authors: Stender Patrick , Ene Constantin Buzau , Galinski Henning , Schmitz Guido
Published: May 2008

Based on the thermodynamics of inhomogeneous systems, it is expected that the chemical transition at an interface between two immiscible components cannot be atomically sharp. However, measurements by direct local chemical analysis are rare, as utmost spatial resolution on an atomic scale is required. In this article, the temperature dependence of the chemical width of layer interfaces in binary Cu/Ag and ternary Cu/Ni81Fe19 specimens is studied experimentally. Atom probe techniques have been used to achieve sufficient spatial resolution. In both materials the interface width could be measured on a length scale of one to two nanometres. Its temperature dependence is found to be in agreement with the Cahn – Hilliard theory. From the measurements the gradient energy coefficient and the specific interfacial Gibbs energy are quantitatively determined.
Effect of Chemical Confinement on the mechanical relaxation spectra of poly(ethene-co-methacrylic acid) copolymers
Authors: Hachenberg Jörg , Steisel Björn , Nergui Undrakh , Bedorf Dennis , Buback Michael , Samwer Konrad
Published: May 2008

The concept of Chemical Confinement is introduced to describe a relaxation mode occurring in copolymers with a non-random distribution of monomer units. Poly(ethene-co-methacrylic acid) copolymer turns out to be an appropriate test system. By suitable selection of the polymerization conditions, the randomness of the distribution of methacrylic acid units along the polymer backbone may be tuned without significantly affecting the degree of polymerization and the methacrylic content of the copolymer. By interaction via hydrogen bonds, associating methacrylic units can confine the relaxation mode of chain segments positioned in between two such associating sites. Variation of the methacrylic content results in a shift of the relaxation mode. Mechanical spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry are used to validate the model of Chemical Confinement.
Can the seed bank be used for ecological restoration? An overview of seed bank characteristics in European communities
Authors: Bossuyt Beatrijs , Honnay Olivier
Published: May 2008

Question:

Can seeds in the seed bank be considered as a potential source of material for the restoration of European plant communities including forest, marsh, grassland and heathland?

Methods:

This study reviews seed bank studies (1990–2006) to determine if they provide useful and reliable results to predict restoration success. We formally selected 102 seed bank studies and analyzed differences between four plant community types in several seed bank characteristics, such as seed density, species richness and similarity between seed bank and vegetation. We also assessed the dominant genera present in the seed bank in each plant community.

Results:

We observed remarkably consistent trends when comparing seed bank characteristics among community types. Seed density was lowest for grassland and forest communities and highest in marshes, whereas species richness, diversity and evenness of the seed bank community was lowest in heathland and highest in grassland. Similarity between seed bank and vegetation was low in forest, and high in grassland. There was a lot of overlap of the dominant genera of seed bank communities in all studies.

Conclusions:

The absence of target species and the high dominance of early successional species, in particular Juncus spp., indicate that restoration of target plant communities relying only on seed germination from the seed bank is in most cases not feasible. The exceptions are heathland and early successional plant communities occurring after temporally recurring disturbances. Restoration of plant communities composed of late successional species, such as woody species or herbaceous species typical of woodland or forest rely mainly on seed dispersal and not on in situ germination.
An investigation into the forces that drive ice-shelf rift propagation on the Amery Ice Shelf, East Antarctica
Authors: Bassis Jeremy N. , Fricker Helen A. , Coleman Richard , Minster Jean-Bernard
Published: May 2008

For three field seasons (2002/03, 2004/05, 2005/06) we have deployed a network of GPS receivers and seismometers around the tip of a propagating rift on the Amery Ice Shelf, East Antarctica. During these campaigns we detected seven bursts of episodic rift propagation. To determine whether these rift propagation events were triggered by short-term environmental forcings, we analyzed simultaneous ancillary data such as wind speeds, tidal amplitudes and sea-ice fraction (a proxy variable for ocean swell). We find that none of these environmental forcings, separately or together, correlated with rift propagation. This apparent insensitivity of ice-shelf rift propagation to short-term environmental forcings leads us to suggest that the rifting process is primarily driven by the internal glaciological stress. Our hypothesis is supported by order-of-magnitude calculations that the glaciological stress is the dominant term in the force balance. However, our calculations also indicate that as the ice shelf thins or the rift system matures and iceberg detachment becomes imminent, short-term stresses due to winds and ocean swell may become more important.
Applicability of Information Theory to the Quantification of Responses to Anthropogenic Noise by Southeast Alaskan Humpback Whales
Authors: Doyle Laurance , McCowan Brenda , Hanser Sean , Chyba Christopher , Bucci Taylor , Blue J.
Published: May 2008

We assess the effectiveness of applying information theory to the characterization and quantification of the affects of anthropogenic vessel noise on humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) vocal behavior in and around Glacier Bay, Alaska. Vessel noise has the potential to interfere with the complex vocal behavior of these humpback whales which could have direct consequences on their feeding behavior and thus ultimately on their health and reproduction. Humpback whale feeding calls recorded during conditions of high vessel-generated noise and lower levels of background noise are compared for differences in acoustic structure, use, and organization using information theoretic measures. We apply information theory in a self-referential manner (i.e., orders of entropy) to quantify the changes in signaling behavior. We then compare this with the reduction in channel capacity due to noise in Glacier Bay itself treating it as a (Gaussian) noisy channel. We find that high vessel noise is associated with an increase in the rate and repetitiveness of sequential use of feeding call types in our averaged sample of humpback whale vocalizations, indicating that vessel noise may be modifying the patterns of use of feeding calls by the endangered humpback whales in Southeast Alaska. The information theoretic approach suggested herein can make a reliable quantitative measure of such relationships and may also be adapted for wider application to many species where environmental noise is thought to be a problem.
An Engineered Mannoside Presenting Platform: Escherichia coli Adhesion under Static and Dynamic Conditions
Authors: Barth Katrin A. , Coullerez Géraldine , Nilsson Lina M. , Castelli Riccardo , Seeberger Peter H. , Vogel Viola , Textor Marcus
Published: May 2008

The study of the adhesion mechanisms of pathogens to host tissues has gained increased interest as bacterial adhesion is involved in the early stages of surface colonization and infection. Here we describe a platform to study the specific binding of the bacterium Escherichia coli (E. coli) K‐12 strain to molecularly well‐defined surfaces mimicking cellular interfaces. This approach uses a poly(ethylene glycol) brush interface, which displays synthetic determinants of the high mannose N‐linked glycans in a range of densities (3.8 × 104–1.6 × 105 mannosides µm−2) for the investigation of multivalent interactions with bacteria. The bacterial attachment is mediated by specific interactions between the adhesive protein FimH located on the tip of the bacterial type 1 pili and the mannosylated surfaces. With synthetically engineered mannoses, it is found that the number of strongly adhering bacteria is co‐regulated by many structural physical parameters. Beyond the dependency on carbohydrate density, higher numbers of E. coli attach to the branched trimannose Man(α1–3)(Man(α1–6))Man compared to the monomannose, while larger oligomannoses exposing Man(α1–2) Man at their non reducing end show low binding capacity. The linker used between the mannose moiety and PEG is also affecting the binding efficacy of E. coli. The (hydrophobic) propyl linker results in higher bacteria numbers in comparison to the (hydrophilic) tri(EG), likely a consequence of additional stabilization of the binding complex by hydrophobic interactions. Furthermore, differences are observed in bacteria attachment between stagnant and flow conditions that depend on the type of mannose ligand. Finally, a photolithographic resist lift‐off combined with site‐selective assembly of the glycopolymers is used to produce micropatterns with bacteria colonies confined to defined areas and at controlled colony numbers.
Diamond Nanoparticles: Jewels for Chemistry and Physics
Authors: Krueger Anke
Published: May 2008

Nanodiamond materials have become broadly available. Their synthesis is usually carried out by explosion or shock wave methods. They exhibit a unique surface structure and can be functionalized in various ways. This opens a broad range of applications in composites, biological systems, electronics, and surface technology.
Postictal psychosis in partial epilepsy: A case–control study
Authors: Alper Kenneth , Kuzniecky Ruben , Carlson Chad , Barr William B. , Vorkas Charles K. , Patel Jignasa G. , Carrelli Angela L. , Starner Karen , Flom Peter L. , Devinsky Orrin
Published: May 2008

Objective

Divergent findings among prior studies on correlates of risk for postictal psychosis (PIP) suggest the value of a controlled study involving a relatively large number of patients.

Methods

The study population consisted of a consecutive series of 59 patients with partial epilepsy and a history of PIP, and 94 control patients with partial epilepsy and no history of PIP evaluated as inpatients with video‐electroencephalography. The groups did not differ significantly regarding demographic features. Exact tests yielded a subset of variables and a tentative interpretation that were evaluated further utilizing principal components analysis and logistic regression.

Results

PIP was associated with extratemporal versus temporal (p= 0.036) or undetermined (p= 0.001) localization of seizure onset, bilateral interictal epileptiform activity (p= 0.017), secondary generalization (p= 0.049), and history of encephalitis (p= 0.018). Interictal slow activity was more frequently absent in control patients (p= 0.045). PIP was associated with family histories of psychiatric disorders (p= 0.007) and epilepsy (p= 0.042), which themselves were significantly intercorrelated (r= 0.225;p= 0.006). Age of onset or duration of epilepsy and lateralized electroencephalographic or magnetic resonance imaging asymmetries did not differ significantly between control and PIP groups. The analysis indicated four underlying domains of risk for PIP: ambiguous/extratemporal localization, family neuropsychiatric history, abnormal interictal electroencephalographic activity, and encephalitis. Each unit increase on a simple additive scale composed of 9 dichotomous independent variables multiplied the odds ratio for PIP by 1.71 (95% confidence interval, 1.36–2.15;p< 0.0001).

Interpretation

PIP in partial epilepsy is associated with relatively broadly and bilaterally distributed epileptogenic networks, genetic determinants of psychiatric disorders and seizures, and encephalitis. Ann Neurol 2008;63:602–610
Primary central nervous system lymphoma can be histologically diagnosed after previous corticosteroid use: A pilot study to determine whether corticosteroids prevent the diagnosis of primary central nervous system lymphoma
Authors: Porter Alyx B. , Giannini Caterina , Kaufmann Timothy , Lucchinetti Claudia F. , Wu Wenting , Decker Paul A. , Atkinson John L. D. , O'Neill Brian Patrick
Published: May 2008

The objective is to determine whether corticosteroid administration before biopsy prevents histopathological diagnosis of primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL). A retrospective review was performed of immunocompetent PCNSL patients from 1985 to 2005. A total of 109 patients was identified. Sixty‐eight (63.6%) patients received corticosteroids before diagnosis. Thirteen patients (of 109; 12%) had undergone repeat brain biopsy to confirm PCNSL. These included 8 (of 68) patients who had received corticosteroids (12%), and 5 (of 39) who had not (13%) (p = 1.0). The majority of PCNSL patients who received corticosteroids before diagnosis did not experience significant radiographic change or require second biopsy for diagnosis. Ann Neurol 2008;63:662–667
Phase 2 trial of a DNA vaccine encoding myelin basic protein for multiple sclerosis
Authors: Garren Hideki , Robinson William H. , Krasulová Eva , Havrdová Eva , Nadj Congor , Selmaj Krzysztof , Losy Jacek , Nadj Ilinka , Radue Ernst‐Wilhelm , Kidd Brian A. , Gianettoni Jill , Tersini Karen , Utz Paul J. , Valone Frank , Steinman Lawrence ,   BHT‐3009 Study Group
Published: May 2008

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of BHT‐3009 in relapsing‐remitting multiple sclerosis (MS) and to confirm that BHT‐3009 causes immune tolerance.

Methods

BHT‐3009 is a tolerizing DNA vaccine for MS, encoding full‐length human myelin basic protein. Relapsing‐remitting MS patients were randomized 1:1:1 into three groups: placebo, 0.5mg BHT‐3009, or 1.5mg BHT‐3009, given intramuscularly at weeks 0, 2, 4, and every 4 weeks thereafter until week 44. The primary end point was the 4‐week rate of occurrence of new gadolinium‐enhancing lesions on brain magnetic resonance images from weeks 28 to 48. Protein microarrays were used to measure levels of anti‐myelin autoantibodies.

Results

Compared with placebo, in the 267 patient analysis population the median 4‐week rate of new enhancing lesions during weeks 28 to 48 was 50% lower with 0.5mg BHT‐3009 (p = 0.07) and during weeks 8 to 48 was 61% lower with 0.5mg BHT‐3009 (p = 0.05). The mean volume of enhancing lesions at week 48 was 51% lower on 0.5mg BHT‐3009 compared with placebo (p = 0.02). No significant improvement in magnetic resonance imaging lesion parameters was observed with 1.5mg BHT‐3009. Dramatic reductions in 23 myelin‐specific autoantibodies in the 0.5mg BHT‐3009 arm were observed, but not with placebo or 1.5mg BHT‐3009.

Conclusions

In relapsing‐remitting MS patients, treatment with the lower dose (0.5mg) of BHT‐3009 for 44 weeks nearly attained the primary end point for reduction of the rate of new enhancing magnetic resonance imaging lesions (p = 0.07) and achieved several secondary end points including a reduction of the rate of enhancing magnetic resonance imaging lesions from weeks 8 to 48 (p = 0.05). Immunological data in a preselected subgroup of patients also indicated that treatment with 0.5mg induced antigen‐specific immune tolerance. The greater dose was ineffective. Ann Neurol 2008;63:611–620
Whole‐mount identification of gene transcripts in aphids: Protocols and evaluation of probe accessibility
Authors: Chang Chun‐che , Huang Ting‐Yu , Shih Chun‐Liang , Lin Gee‐Way , Chang Te‐Pin , Chiu Hui , Chang Wen‐Chang
Published: May 2008

In situ hybridization has become a powerful tool for detecting the temporal and spatial distribution of gene transcripts in prokaryotes and eukaryotes. We report an efficient protocol for whole‐mount identification of the expression of mRNAs in the parthenogenetic pea aphidAcyrthosiphon pisum, an emerging model organism with a growing accumulation of genome sequencing data. In addition to steps common for most animal in situ hybridization protocols, we describe processing methods specific to aphids, the accessibility of antisense riboprobes of different lengths in whole‐mounted aphids, and signal intensity versus probe lengths. To find substrate combinations that clearly contrast single and double in situ signals inA. pisum, we tested our protocols using riboprobes constructed from two conserved germline markers,ApvasaandApnanos, and examined colocalized signals in the germaria and developing oocytes. Finally, we propose conditions for stringent permeabilization that may be applied to tissues deep within the aphid embryo. Arch. Insect Biochem. Physiol. 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Angiotensin‐converting enzyme‐like activity in crab gills and its putative role in degradation of crustacean hyperglycemic hormone
Authors: Chung J. Sook , Webster S.G.
Published: May 2008

Angiotensin‐converting enzyme‐like enzyme activity (ACELA) was found in Carcinus maenas using reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP‐HPLC) analysis of degradation kinetics of a synthetic substrate (Hippuryl‐histidyl‐leucine) and a specific inhibitor (captopril). Gills contained the highest ACELA, then brain, muscle, and testis, respectively, while no activity was detected in the following tissues: hepatopancreas, hindgut, hypodermis, heart, and hemolymph. ACELA present in gill membranes exhibited a Km of 0.23 mM and Vmax of 7.6 nmol with synthetic substrate. The enzyme activity was dependent on Cl– concentration and was markedly inhibited by captopril, lisinopril, and EDTA. Addition of Zn2+ to membranes previously treated with EDTA restored 89% activity, suggesting that C. maenas ACELA is a Zn2+ metalloenzyme. Gill membranes prepared from premolt crabs showed similar levels of ACELA to those of the intermolt animals. Administration of captopril in vivo lengthened the half life of circulating CHH, while in vitro incubation of gill membranes with captopril reduced CHH. These results suggest that C. maenas ACELA present in gills is likely to be involved in degradation of this neuropeptide. Arch. Insect Biochem. Physiol. 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc..
Bayesian approach for g‐mode detection, or how to restrict our imagination
Authors: Appourchaux T.
Published: May 2008

Nowadays, g‐mode detection is based upon a priori theoretical knowledge. By doing so, detection becomes more restricted to what we can imagine. De facto, the universe of possibilities ismade narrower. Such an approach is pertinent for Bayesian statisticians. Examples of how Bayesian inferences can be applied to spectral analysis and helioseismic power spectra are given. Our intention is not to give the full statistical framework (much too ambitious) but to provide an appetizer for going further in the direction of a proper Bayesian inference, especially for detecting gravity modes. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
p‐mode power variation with solar atmosphere as observed in the Na D1 and K spectral lines
Authors: Simoniello R. , Jiménez‐Reyes S.J. , García R.A. , Pallé P.L.
Published: May 2008

In this work we investigate p‐mode power variation with solar atmosphere. To this aim, we use THÉMIS observations of the Na D1 (λ 5896 Å) and K (λ 7699 Å) spectral lines. While the formation heights of the K spectral line are essentially located in the photospheric layer, the formation heights of the Na D1 line span a much wider region: from photosphere up to chromosphere. Hence, we had the opportunity to infer p‐mode power variation up to the chromospheric layer. By analyzing power spectra obtained by temporal series at different points of the Na D1 and K spectral lines, we confirm and quantify the increase in p‐mode power towards higher atmospheric layers. Furthermore, the large span in formation heights of the Na D1 line induces a larger enhancement of p‐mode power with solar atmosphere compared to the K spectral line. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Modelling solar atmospheric gravity oscillation modes
Authors: Pintér B.
Published: May 2008

Solar oscillations are investigated in a one‐dimensional hydrodynamic plane‐parallel model with an atmosphere. Besides the acoustic pressure (p) modes, the fundamental (f) and Lamb mode, another set of eigenmodes, a group of atmospheric gravity (g) modes, is found in the low‐frequency region of the spectrum. Their frequencies and spatial behaviour are studied. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Gravity modes and mixed modes as probes of stellar cores in main‐sequence stars: From solar‐like to β Cep stars
Authors: Miglio A. , Montalbán J. , Eggenberger P. , Noels A.
Published: May 2008

We investigate how the frequencies of gravity modes depend on the detailed properties of the chemical composition gradient that develops near the core of main‐sequence stars and, therefore, on the transport processes that are able to modify the μ profile in the central regions. We show that in main‐sequence models, similarly to the case of white dwarfs, the periods of high‐order gravity modes are accurately described by a uniform period spacing superposed to an oscillatory component. The periodicity and amplitude of such a component are related, respectively, to the location and sharpness of the μ gradient. We briefly discuss and interpret, by means of this simple approximation, the effect of turbulent mixing near the core on the periods of both high‐order and low‐order g modes, as well as of modes of mixed pressure‐gravity character. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Initial results of primary device closure of large muscular ventricular septal defects in early infancy using perventricular access
Authors: Crossland D.S. , Wilkinson J.L. , Cochrane A.D. , d'Udekem Y. , Brizard C.P. , Lane G.K.
Published: May 2008

Objectives: To report our experience with the use of the Amplatzer muscular ventricular septal defect (VSD) occluder, using direct right ventricle free wall puncture for primary closure of muscular VSDs in infants. Background: Young infants with heart failure due to large or multiple muscular VSDs often require intervention at a stage when percutaneous device closure is impractical due to delivery system limitations. There are considerable benefits to avoiding bypass in these infants. Methods: Patients with suitable muscular VSDs, considered too small for transvenous closure, underwent perventricular muscular VSD closure under transesophageal echo (TEE) guidance. Results: Eight infants underwent the procedure. The median age was 14 weeks (2–41) with median weight of 4 kg (3–6.6). Four patients had additional VSDs and one patient had previous repair of coarctation. One patient had dextrocardia and severe left ventricular impairment due to an associated cardiomyopathy. The median VSD size was 8 mm (range, 4–10 mm). A single device (6–12 mm) was deployed in each patient, the size chosen being 1–2 mm larger than the TEE measurement. Two patients had subsequent pulmonary artery banding, with absorbable bands, because of moderate residual shunting through additional VSDs. The latest echo study at a median of 7.2 weeks (0.5–66) post device implantation revealed no patients with a hemodynamically significant shunt. Conclusion: Perventricular muscular VSD closure can be safely and effectively undertaken in small infants with suitable muscular defects, and this strategy can avoid the need for bypass. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI diagnostics in oncology via principal component analysis
Authors: Bruwer Mark‐John , MacGregor John F. , Noseworthy Michael D.
Published: May 2008

This paper proposes the use of latent variable models based on principal component analysis (PCA) as a robust alternative to pharmacokinetic modeling for the analysis of the dynamic contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance images (DCE‐MRI) often obtained during oncological studies. Theoretical and practical justifications are provided for the advantages of the PCA approach. A pilot study using clinical DCE‐MRI data on prostate patients is presented to demonstrate the method. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Novel Linker Methodology for the Synthesis of Tailored Conjugate Vaccines Composed of Complex Carbohydrate Antigens and Specific TH‐Cell Peptide Epitopes
Authors: Dziadek Sebastian , Jacques Sandra , Bundle David R.
Published: May 2008

Pathogenic organisms or oncogenically transformed cells often express complex carbohydrate structures at their cell surface, which are viable targets for active immunotherapy. We describe here a novel, immunologically neutral, linker methodology for the efficient preparation of highly defined vaccine conjugates that combine complex saccharide antigens with specific TH‐cell peptide epitopes. This novel heterobifunctional approach was employed for the conjugation of a (1→2)‐β‐mannan trisaccharide from the pathogenic fungus Candida albicans as well as the carbohydrate portion of tumor‐associated ganglioside GM2 to a TH‐cell peptide epitope derived from the murine 60 kDa self heat‐shock protein (hsp60). Moreover, the linkage chemistry has proven well suited for the synthesis of more complex target structures such as a biotinylated glycopeptide, a three component vaccine containing an immunostimulatory peptide epitope from interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), and for the conjugation of complex carbohydrates to carrier proteins such as bovine serum albumin.
A DFT Study of the Mechanism of Polymerization of ε‐Caprolactone Initiated by Organolanthanide Borohydride Complexes
Authors: Barros Noémi , Mountford Philip , Guillaume Sophie M. , Maron Laurent
Published: May 2008

The mechanisms of polymerization of ε‐caprolactone (CL) initiated by either the rare‐earth hydride [Cp2Eu(H)] or the borohydrides [Cp2Eu(BH4)] or [(N2NN′)Eu(BH4)] were studied at the DFT level (Cp=η5‐C5H5; N2NN′=(2‐C5H4N)CH2(CH2‐ CH2NMe)2). For all compounds the reaction proceeds in two steps: a hydride transfer from the rare earth initiator to the carbonyl carbon of the lactone, followed by ring‐opening of the monomer. In the last step a difference is observed between the hydride and borohydride complexes, because for the latter the ring‐opening is induced by an additional BH bond cleavage leading to a terminal CH2OBH2 group. This corresponds to the reduction by BH3 of the carbonyl group of CL. Upon reaction of [Cp2Eu(H)] with CL, the alkoxy–aldehyde complex produced, [Cp2Eu{O(CH2)5C(O)H}], is the first‐formed initiating species. In contrast, for the reaction of CL with the borohydride complexes [(Lx)Eu(BH4)] (Lx=Cp2 or N2NN′), an aliphatic alkoxide with a terminal CH2OBH2 group, [(Lx)Eu{O(CH2)6OBH2}] is formed and subsequently propagates the polymerization. The present DFT investigations are fully compatible with previously reported mechanistic studies of experimental systems.
A PTD‐based transaction protocol for public transportation
Authors: Chen Chin‐Ling
Published: May 2008

Advances in wireless network technology and the increasing number of users of the personal trusted device (PTD) make the PTD an ideal channel for offering personalized services to mobile users. In this paper, we propose using a PTD as a payment tool in a mobile transaction system for public transportation. To overcome the inherent weakness of computing resources in a PTD, we use a trusted observer to coordinate the mobile transaction and to integrate cryptology (such as a digital signature and a one‐way hash function).

The proposed scheme satisfies the requirements for mobile transactions. These requirements include fairness, non‐repudiation, anonymity, off‐line capability, no forgery, efficient verification, simplicity, and practicability. Because a PTD is more portable and personal than a personal computer and because the public transportation can be a necessity in our daily lives, our scheme proposes a novel use of PTDs in mobile commerce. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
{2‐[1‐(2,6‐Diisopropylphenylimino)ethyl]pyridyl}palladium Dibromide Polymorphs Originating from Different Br···π and C–H···Br Contacts
Authors: Zhang Wenjuan , Tang Xiubo , Ma Hongwei , Sun Wen‐Hua , Janiak Christoph
Published: May 2008

{2‐[1‐(2,6‐Diisopropylphenylimino)ethyl]pyridyl}palladiumdibromide (1) was synthesized and crystallized as red crystals from chloroform in the monoclinic space group P21/c or as yellow crystals from methanol in the triclinic space group P$\bar {1}$. Other solvents, such as THF and acetonitrile, gave mixtures of red and yellow crystals. With very little conformational differences between the molecules in the dimorphs of 1 the crystal packing is a herringbone array in 1‐red and a parallel array in 1‐yellow, with the supramolecular interactions differing in the Br···π and C–H···Br contacts. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Chlorpyrifos‐induced DNA damage in rat liver and brain
Authors: Mehta Anugya , Verma Radhey S. , Srivastava Nalini
Published: May 2008

Chlorpyrifos (O,O'‐diethyl‐O‐3,5,6‐trichloro‐2‐pyridyl phosphorothionate, CPF) is a broad spectrum organophosphate pesticide used to control a variety of pests. The present study was undertaken to test the in vivo genotoxic potential of CPF in rats, using the single cell gel electrophoresis (or comet) assay. The rats were administered 50 mg and 100 mg CPF/kg body weight daily for 1, 2, and 3 days as well as 1.12 mg and 2.24 mg CPF/kg body weight for 90 days. The level of DNA damage was estimated by scoring 100 cells per animal, dividing into five types: types 0, I, II, III, and IV. The results clearly indicate that exposure to CPF, acutely or chronically, caused a dose‐dependent increase in DNA damage in the liver and brain of rats. From the present study, it can be concluded that CPF exhibits genotoxic potential in vivo. Environ. Mol. Mutagen., 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Estrogen is a modulator of vascular inflammation
Authors: Chakrabarti Subhadeep , Lekontseva Olga , Davidge Sandra T
Published: May 2008

Vascular inflammation underlies the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Atherosclerotic changes in the vasculature lead to conditions such as coronary artery disease and stroke, which are the major causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Epidemiological studies in premenopausal women suggest a beneficial role for estrogen in preventing vascular inflammation and consequent atherosclerosis. However, the benefits of estrogen areabsent or even reversed in older postmenopausal subjects. The modulation of inflammation by estrogen under different conditions might explain this discrepancy. Estrogen exerts its antiinflammatory effects on the vasculature through different mechanisms such as direct antioxidant effect, generation of nitric oxide, prevention of apoptosis in vascular cells and suppression of cytokines and the renin‐angiotensin system. On the other hand, estrogen also elicits proinflammatory changes under certain conditions, which are less completely understood. Some of the mechanisms underlying a possible proinflammatory role for estrogen include increased expression of the proinflammatory receptor for advanced glycation end products, increased tyrosine nitration of cellular proteins, and generation of reactive oxygen species through an uncoupled eNOS. In this review, we have presented evidence for both antiinflammatory and proinflammatory pathways modulated by estrogen and how interactions among such pathways might determine the effects of estrogen on the vascular system. © 2008 IUBMB IUBMB Life, 60(6): 376–382, 2008
Endogenous ATP potentiates only vasopressin secretion from neurohypophysial terminals
Authors: Knott Thomas K. , Marrero Héctor G. , Custer Edward E. , Lemos José R.
Published: May 2008

Exogenous ATP induces inward currents and causes the release of arginine‐vasopressin (AVP) from isolated neurohypophysial terminals (NHT); both effects are inhibited by the P2X2 and P2X3 antagonists, suramin and PPADS. Here we examined the role of endogenous ATP in the neurohypophysis. Stimulation of NHT caused the release of both AVP and ATP. ATP induced a potentiation in the stimulated release of AVP, but not of oxytocin (OT), which was blocked by the presence of suramin. In loose‐patch clamp recordings, from intact neurohypophyses, suramin or PPADS produces an inhibition of action potential currents in a static bath, that can be mimicked by a hyperpolarization of the resting membrane potential (RMP). Correspondingly, in a static versus perfused bath there is a depolarization of the RMP of NHT, which was reduced by either suramin or PPADS. We measured an accumulation of ATP (3.7 ± 0.7 µM) released from NHT in a static bath. Applications of either suramin or PPADS to a static bath decreased burst‐stimulated capacitance increases in NHT. Finally, only vasopressin release from electrically stimulated intact neurohypophyses was reduced in the presence of Suramin or PPADS. These data suggest that there was sufficient accumulation of ATP released from the neurohypophysis during stimulations to depolarize its nerve terminals. This would occur via the opening of P2X2 and P2X3 receptors, inducing an influx of Ca2+. The subsequent elevation in [Ca2+]iwould further increase the stimulated release of only vasopressin from NHT terminals. Such purinergic feedback mechanisms could be physiologically important at most CNS synapses. J. Cell. Physiol. 217: 155–161, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Stone run (block stream) formation in the Falkland Islands over several cold stages, deduced from cosmogenic isotope (10Be and 26Al) surface exposure dating
Authors: Wilson Peter , Bentley Michael J. , Schnabel Christoph , Clark Richard , Xu Sheng
Published: May 2008

Cosmogenic isotope (10Be and 26Al) surface exposure dating has been applied to valley‐axis and hillslope stone runs (relict periglacial block streams) and their source outcrops in the Falkland Islands, South Atlantic. The data indicate that stone runs are considerably older landforms than previously envisaged and afford no evidence that they are a product of the Last Glacial Maximum; the samples range in apparent 10Be age from 42k to 731k yr BP, but some of these are minima. The results indicate that valley‐axis stone runs may be up to 700–800k yr old, have simple exposure histories and are composite landforms that developed over several cold stages. Analyses of some hillslope and outcrop samples also demonstrate simple exposure histories with 10Be ages from 42k to 658k yr BP. In contrast, isotopic ratios from other hillslope and outcrop samples reveal they have had a complex exposure history involving periods of burial or shielding; the samples range in 10Be age from 59k to 569k yr BP and these are regarded as minimum age estimates. Larger stone runs may be older than smaller runs and there is a possibility that stone runs older than 800k yr exist in other parts of the Falklands. The assertion that glaciation in the Falklands was restricted to the highest uplands is supported by the data, and the potential for age determination of other boulder‐strewn and bedrock landforms, using cosmogenic isotope analysis, in order to extend the geochronology of Quaternary events and processes is noted. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Cleavable Network Based on Crosslinked Star Polymers Containing Acid‐Labile Diacetal Crosslinks: Synthesis, Characterization and Hydrolysis
Authors: Themistou Efrosyni , Patrickios Costas S.
Published: May 2008

A hydrolyzable model network comprising interconnected star polymers was prepared by the sequential group transfer polymerization of methyl methacrylate and the acid‐labile diacetal‐based dimethacrylate crosslinker bis[(2‐methacryloyloxy)ethoxymethyl] ether. In contrast to other polymer networks previously synthesized by our group, all the branching points of this polymer network were found to hydrolyze under mildly acidic conditions, giving a linear copolymer with the theoretically expected molecular weight and composition. The ease of hydrolysis of this polymer network renders it a good candidate for use in the biomedical field. The characterization of the synthesized network, its linear and star polymer precursors and the hydrolysis products of the network and its precursors, by a variety of techniques, established the successful synthesis and hydrolysis of this well‐defined polymer nanostructure.

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