bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of neonicotinoid seed treatment of cotton on the cotton leafhopper,Amrasca devastans(Hemiptera: Cicadellidae), and its natural enemies
Authors: Saeed Rabia , Razaq Muhammad , Hardy Ian CW
Published: September 2015

BACKGROUND

Neonicotinoid seed treatments suppress populations of pest insects efficiently and can enhance crop growth, but they may have negative effects on beneficial arthropods. We evaluated the effects of either imidacloprid or thiamethoxam on the abundances of a sucking pest, the cotton leafhopper (Amrasca devastans), and its arthropod predators under field conditions. We also evaluated the impact of seed treatment on transgenic cotton plant growth, with pests and natural enemies present or absent.

RESULTS

Imidacloprid and thiamethoxam reduced pest abundance, with greater effects when dosages were higher. Treatment at recommended doses delayed the pest in reaching the economic damage threshold by around 10–15 days (thiamethoxam) and 20 days (imidacloprid). Recommended doses also enhanced plant growth under all tested conditions; growth is affected directly as well as via pest suppression. Neonicotinoid applications reduced abundance of beneficial arthropods, with lower populations after higher doses, but negative effects of imidacloprid were not apparent unless the manufacturer‐recommended dose was exceeded.

CONCLUSION

Imidacloprid applied at the recommended dose of 5 g kg−1seed is effective againstA. devastansand appears to be safer than thiamethoxam for natural enemies, and also enhances plant growth directly. We caution, however, that possible sublethal negative effects on individual beneficial arthropods were not evaluated. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of Trimeric Myricetin Rhamnoside (TMR) in Carrageenan‐induced Inflammation and Caecal Ligation and Puncture‐induced Lung Oxidative Stress in Mice
Authors: Latief Najeeb , Anand Shikha , Lingaraju Madhu Cholenahalli , Balaganur Venkanna , Pathak Nitya Nand , Kalra Jaspreet , Kumar Dinesh , Bhadoria Brijesh K , Tandan Surendra Kumar
Published: September 2015

The Eugenia jambolana is used in folklore medicine. Leaves of E. jambolana contain flavonoids as their active constituents which possess in vitro antiinflammatory, antioxidant and the antimicrobial activity. The aim of the present study was to investigate the antiinflammatory and antioxidant effects of a flavonoid glucoside, trimeric myricetin rhamnoside (TMR) isolated from leaves of E. jambolana. TMR was studied for antiinflammatory activity in carrageenan‐induced hind paw oedema and antioxidant activity in lung by caecal ligation and puncture (CLP)‐induced sepsis in mice. Results of the present study indicated that TMR significantly attenuated the oedema, myeloperoxidase (MPO), cytokines and prostaglandin levels in the paw after 5 h of carrageenan injection as compared to vehicle control. It also reduced the lung MPO, lipid peroxides, and serum nitrite plus nitrate levels and increased lung reduced glutathione levels 20 h of CLP as compared to vehicle control. Thus the results of this study concluded that the TMR appears to have potential benefits in diseases that are mediated by both inflammation and oxidative stress and support the pharmacological basis of use of E. jambolana plant as traditional herbal medicine for the treatment of inflammatory diseases. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A potential vorticity signature for the cold sector of winter extratropical cyclones
Authors: Vannière Benoît , Czaja Arnaud , Dacre Helen , Woollings Tim , Parfitt Rhys
Published: September 2015

The cold sector of a midlatitude storm is characterized by distinctive features such as strong surface heat fluxes, shallow convection, convective precipitation and synoptic subsidence. In order to evaluate the contribution of processes occurring in the cold sector to the mean climate, an appropriate indicator is needed. This study describes the systematic presence of negative potential vorticity (PV) behind the cold front of extratropical storms in winter. The origin of this negative PV is analyzed using ERA‐Interim data, and PV tendencies averaged over the depth of the boundary layer are evaluated. It is found that negative PV is generated by diabatic processes in the cold sector and by Ekman pumping at the low centre, whereas positive PV is generated by Ekman advection of potential temperature in the warm sector. We suggest here that negative PV at low levels can be used to identify the cold sector. A PV‐based indicator is applied to estimate the respective contributions of the cold sector and the remainder of the storm to upward motion and large‐scale and convective precipitation. We compare the PV‐based indicator with other distinctive features that could be used as markers of the cold sector and find that potential vorticity is the best criterion when taken alone and the best when combined with any other.
Surface studies of magnesium oxide‐based catalysts modified with X2 or MgX2 (X = Br, I)
Authors: Iwanek Ewa , Ulkowska Urszula , Gliński Marek
Published: September 2015

The introduction of a halide (Br, I) onto MgO leads to obtaining catalysts whose catalytic activity in transfer hydrogenation of acrolein with ethanol is significantly higher than that of unmodified MgO. In data found in literature, there is no concise view on how the modification of the surface of MgO with a halide affects its surface properties. Although most of the literature studies indicate a dependence of activity on the initial halide‐containing compound and type of halide, no study comprising both these aspects has been performed. The aim of the present study was to conduct measurements of MgO modified with two halides and with two types of initial halide‐containing compounds with surface‐sensitive techniques to determine how each of these factors influences the surface properties of the catalyst. Titration experiments showed that all of the modified catalysts have a smaller diversity of basic site strengths than unmodified MgO. They also revealed that for all studied systems, the modification of the surface leads to the formation of Brønsted acidic sites, which MgO does not possess. XPS spectra indicate that bromine‐modified catalysts give a broader range of surface species than the appropriate iodine‐modified ones. Moreover, they showed that in the case of both iodine‐modified and bromine‐modified catalysts, the one that exhibited the higher concentration of the appropriate halogen on the surface showed a lower activity in catalytic transfer hydrogenation of acrolein with ethanol. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of N5+ ion implantation on optical and gas sensing properties of WO3 films
Authors: Kumar Ashutosh , Keshri Sunita
Published: September 2015

In this paper we report the optical and gas sensing behaviours of tungsten oxide (WO3) films, implanted with 45‐keV N5 + ions of different fluences in the range 1 × 1015 to 1 × 1017 cm–2. The film with fluence 1 × 1015 cm–2 shows the most intense PL spectrum with two prominent peaks near UV and blue regions. The morphological changes because of ion implantation are also investigated by atomic force microscopy. Because of implantation the gas sensitivity of the film, in exposure of methane, is found to increase with reasonably fast response and recovery times. With the increase of the concentration of methane, the sensors show better result. Present work also includes the effect of N5 + ion implantation on the structural property of WO3 films. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A guide to genome‐wide association analysis and post‐analytic interrogation
Authors: Reed Eric , Nunez Sara , Kulp David , Qian Jing , Reilly Muredach P. , Foulkes Andrea S.
Published: September 2015

This tutorial is a learning resource that outlines the basic process and provides specific software tools for implementing a complete genome‐wide association analysis. Approaches to post‐analytic visualization and interrogation of potentially novel findings are also presented. Applications are illustrated using the free and open‐source R statistical computing and graphics software environment, Bioconductor software for bioinformatics and the UCSC Genome Browser. Complete genome‐wide association data on 1401 individuals across 861,473 typed single nucleotide polymorphisms from the PennCATH study of coronary artery disease are used for illustration. All data and code, as well as additional instructional resources, are publicly available through the Open Resources in Statistical Genomics project: http://www.stat-gen.org. © 2015 The Authors. Statistics in Medicine Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Effect of the ways of adding stearic acid on properties of sweet potato starch and sweet‐potato‐starch‐based films
Authors: Liu Pengfei , Sun Shenglin , Lu Huiling , Hou Hanxue , Dong Haizhou
Published: September 2015

Starch‐fatty acid composites were prepared using sweet potato starch (SPS) and stearic acid (SA). The SA was added into the starch system by employing two different ways; i.e., either prior to heating (Method I) or after heating (Method II). The ways of adding SA changed the SPS pasting characteristics as determined by Rapid Viscosity Analyzer (RVA). In differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) thermograms, both of the composites exhibited a new peak which was regarded as the melting peak of amylose–lipid complex. Scanning electronic microscope (SEM) images indicated that the quantity of intact starch granules decreased (Method I), while the starch granules in the composite prepared by Method II remained the intact morphology. The composite prepared by Method I exhibited lower relative crystallinity than their counterparts. Compared with the control film, the light transmission of the films prepared by Method I showed a decrease of 10.1%, while the films prepared by Method II exhibited a decrease of 5.1%. The films prepared by Method II had better moisture barrier properties than the films prepared by Method I. The films prepared by Method II showed higher tensile strength and elongation at break values compared with the films prepared by Method I.
Candida tropicalis BPU1 produces polyhydroxybutyrate on raw starchy substrates
Authors: Priji Prakasan , Sajith Sreedharan , Sreedevi Sasidharan , Unni Kizhakkepowathial Nair , Kumar Sunil , Benjamin Sailas
Published: September 2015

This study reports the potential of Candida tropicalis BPU1—isolated from the rumen of Malabari goat—in producing polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) on raw starchy substrates. Initially, commercial soluble starch or naturally available raw starchy substrates (flours of potato, tapioca, or jack seed) was supplemented in a minimal medium to evaluate the efficiency of C. tropicalis BPU1 in producing PHB crystals. Among them, potato flour and commercial starch supported the maximum production of PHB at comparable levels of 0.36 g/g and 0.39 g/g cell dry weight (cdw), respectively. Subsequently, using potato flour as substrate, Box‐Behnken design and response surface methodology were employed to statistically optimize the culture parameters, which resulted in the 0.6 fold increase (i.e., 0.59 g/g) in production of PHB over the unoptimized condition (potato flour 0.5%, pH 6.9, 38°C, and 19 h incubation). PHB crystals were characterized by TLC, UV‐visible spectrophotometry, FTIR spectroscopy, NMR and TGA, which showed typical spherulite morphology during its growth, and were thermostable up to 240°C. Briefly, this study projects the possibilities of the utilization of cheap and raw starchy agro‐products as substrate for the production of PHB at a cheaper rate; and that the eukaryotic unicellular C. tropicalis BPU1 offers much industrial significance.
Influence of guar gum on the in vitro digestibility of tapioca starch
Authors: Hong Yan , Liu Guodong , Zhou Shanshan , Gu Zhengbiao , Cheng Li , Li Zhaofeng , Li Caiming
Published: September 2015

In this study, the influence of guar gum (GG) content on tapioca starch (TS) digestibility and the mechanism underlying this effect were examined. A difference in starch digestibility was observed between GG and TS mixed at ratios of 1:90 or 1:80 and those mixed at ratios of 1:70–1:20. The final starch hydrolysis rate at mixing ratios of 1:90 and 1:80 improved by 4.79% and 4.10%, respectively. However, starch hydrolysis was negatively correlated with the mixing ratio when the mixing ratio was increased further. Mixing at 1:20 resulted in the lowest amount of rapidly digestible starch. Nuclear magnetic resonance and Fourier transform infrared spectrometry indicated that water mobility and hydrogen‐bonding interaction strength are important factors for digestibility. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that, at a GG:TS ratio of 1:80, the mixtures had a porous and loose‐fracture morphology, whereas the microstructure was denser at 1:40 and 1:20. Fluorescence microscopy revealed that the presence of GG around starch served as a protective barrier and retarded hydrolysis at GG:TS ratios of 1:40 and 1:20. These results confirm that the hydrogen‐bonding interaction strength is responsible for differences in starch digestibility among the different combinations of GG and TS.
Folic acid linked amino‐cellulose for in vitro evaluation of doxorubicin delivery: Synthesis and characterization
Authors: Movagharnezhad Nasim , Najafi Moghadam Peyman
Published: September 2015

In this study, cellulose, a biodegradable polymer, was successfully aminated. For this purpose the cellulose was converted to a bromoacetylated derivative by reaction with bromoacetyl bromide. The resulting bromide derivative was then substituted with azido groups by reaction with sodium azide. Then the azido group was reduced to amines via the formation of the triphenylphosphinimine intermediate followed by hydrolysis using aqueous hydrazine. This sequence produced amino‐cellulose. To gain a tumor‐targeting doxorubicin (DOX) delivery system, we conjugated an active tumor‐targeting ligand, folic acid, to the end of the resulting copolymer (FA‐Amino‐Cell). The structure of this copolymer was confirmed by FT‐IR, UV–Vis, TGA, SEM, and 1H NMR spectroscopy. The SEM images showed that the hydrodynamic dimension of the resulted product is about 40 nm. Moreover, the Release profiles of DOX from the FA‐Amino‐Cell and its loading capacity were determined by UV–Vis absorption measurement at λmax 483 nm. The results showed that the DOX loaded copolymer had good control on the release period of DOX. So, it seems that the FA‐Amino‐Cell is a potential candidate for the targeted delivery of DOX for cancer treatment.
Concise Review: Exciting Cells: Modeling Genetic Epilepsies with Patient-Derived Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells
Authors: Tidball Andrew M. , Parent Jack M.
Published: September 2015

Human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) models of epilepsy are becoming a revolutionary platform for mechanistic studies and drug discovery. The skyrocketing pace of epilepsy gene discovery is vastly outstripping the development of in vivo animal models. Currently, antiepileptic drug prescribing to patients with specific genetic epilepsies is based on small-scale clinical trials and empiricism; however, rapid production of patient-derived iPSC models will allow for precision therapy. We review iPSC-based studies that have already afforded novel discoveries in diseases with epileptic phenotypes, as well as challenges to using iPSC-based neurological disease models. We also discuss iPSC-derived cardiomyocyte studies of arrhythmia-inducing ion channelopathies that exemplify novel drug discovery and use of multielectrode array technology that can be translated to epilepsy research. Beyond initial studies of Rett, Timothy, Phelan-McDermid, and Dravet syndromes, the stage is set for groundbreaking iPSC-based mechanistic and therapeutic discoveries in genetic epilepsies with the potential to impact patient treatment and quality of life.
Contingent versus routine third‐trimester screening for late fetal growth restriction
Authors: Triunfo S. , Crovetto F. , Scazzocchio E. , Parra‐Saavedra M. , Gratacos E. , Figueras F.
Published: September 2015

Objective

To evaluate the use of third‐trimester ultrasound screening for late fetal growth restriction (FGR) on a contingent basis, according to risk accrued in the second trimester, in an unselected population.

Methods

Maternal characteristics, fetal biometry and second‐trimester uterine artery (UtA) Doppler were included in logistic regression analysis to estimate risk for late FGR (birth weight < 3rd percentile, or 3rd–10th percentile plus abnormal cerebroplacental ratio or UtA Doppler, with delivery ≥ 34 weeks). Based on the second‐trimester risk, strategies for performing contingent third‐trimester ultrasound examinations in 10%, 25% or 50% of the cohort were tested against a strategy of routine ultrasound scanning in the entire population at 32 + 0 to 33 + 6 weeks.

Results

Models were constructed based on 1393 patients and validated in 1303 patients, including 73 (5.2%) and 82 late FGR (6.3%) cases, respectively. At the second‐trimester scan, the a‐posteriori second‐trimester risk (a‐posteriori first‐trimester risk (baseline a‐priori risk and mean arterial blood pressure) combined with second‐trimester abdominal circumference and UtA Doppler) yielded an area under the receiver–operating characteristics curve (AUC) of 0.81 (95% CI, 0.74–0.87) (detection rate (DR), 43.1% for a 10% false‐positive rate (FPR)). The combination of a‐posteriori second‐trimester risk plus third‐trimester estimated fetal weight (full model) yielded an AUC of 0.92 (95% CI, 0.88–0.96) (DR, 74% for a 10% FPR). Subjecting 10%, 25% or 50% of the study population to third‐trimester ultrasound, based on a‐posteriori second‐trimester risk, gave AUCs of 0.81 (95% CI, 0.75–0.88), 0.84 (95% CI, 0.78–0.91) and 0.89 (95% CI, 0.84–0.94), respectively. Only the 50% contingent model proved statistically equivalent to performing routine third‐trimester ultrasound scans (AUC, 0.92 (95% CI, 0.88–0.96), P = 0.11).

Conclusion

A strategy of selecting 50% of the study population to undergo third‐trimester ultrasound examination, based on accrued risk in the second trimester, proved equivalent to routine third‐trimester ultrasound scanning in predicting late FGR. Copyright © 2015 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Use of a perineural coiled catheter at the sciatic nerve in dogs after tibial plateau levelling osteotomy – preliminary observations
Authors: Marolf Vincent , Luyet Cédric , Spadavecchia Claudia , Eichenberger Urs , Rytz Ulrich , Rohrbach Helene
Published: September 2015

The analgesic effects of peripheral nerve blocks can be prolonged with the placement of perineural catheters allowing repeated injections of local anaesthetics in humans. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the clinical suitability of a perineural coiled catheter (PCC) at the sciatic nerve and to evaluate pain during the early post‐operative period in dogs after tibial plateau levelling osteotomy. Pre‐operatively, a combined block of the sciatic and the femoral nerves was performed under sonographic guidance (ropivacaine 0.5%; 0.3 mL kg−1 per nerve). Thereafter, a PCC was placed near the sciatic nerve. Carprofen (4 mg kg−1 intravenously) was administered at the end of anaesthesia. After surgery, all dogs were randomly assigned to receive four injections of ropivacaine (group R; 0.25%, 0.3 mL kg−1) or NaCl 0.9% (group C; 0.3 mL kg−1) every 6 h through the PCC. Pain was assessed by use of a visual analogue scale (VAS) and a multi‐dimensional pain score (4Avet) before surgery (T‐1), for 390 min (T0, T30, T60, T120, T180, T240, T300, T360 and T390) as well as 1 day after surgery (Day 1). Methadone (0.1 mg kg−1) was administered each time the VAS was ≥40 mm or the 4Avet was ≥5. At T390 dogs received buprenorphine (0.02 mg kg−1). Data were compared using Mann–Whitney rank sum tests and repeated measures analysis of variance. Regardless of group allocation, 55% of dogs required methadone. VAS was significantly lower at T390 (P = 0.003), and at Day 1 (P = 0.002) and so was 4Avet at Day 1 (P = 0.012) in group R than in group C. Bleeding occurred in one dog at PCC placement and PCC dislodged six times of 47 PCCs placed. Minor complications occurred with PCC but allowed four repeated administrations of ropivacaine or saline over 24 h in 91.5% of the cases.
Expanding the Size of Catecholesters – Modified Ligands for the Hierarchical Assembly of Dinuclear Titanium(IV) Helicates
Authors: Van Craen David , de Groot Marita , Albrecht Markus , Pan Fanfang , Rissanen Kari
Published: September 2015

Five 2,3‐dihydroxybenzoic acid derivatives 1 – 5 were used as starting materials to obtain the corresponding methyl and ethyl esters. Those were applied as ligands in the hierarchical self‐assembly of lithium‐bridged dinuclear titanium(IV) complexes 1a–4a, 1b–3b, and 5b. The equilibria between the mononuclear triscatecholate complexes (monomer) and the dinuclear helicates (dimer) were observed by 1H NMR spectroscopy in [D6]DMSO and [D4]MeOH at room temperature.
Self‐assembly of Dinuclear Double‐stranded Copper(II) Helicates with 3‐Ethoxy‐2‐hydroxyphenyl Substituted Diimines. Synthesis, Molecular Structure, and Host‐guest Recognition of H2O
Authors: Kelly Norman , Schulz Johanna , Gloe Kerstin , Doert Thomas , Gloe Karsten , Wenzel Marco , Acker Margret , Weigand Jan J.
Published: September 2015

Reaction of equimolar amounts of Cu(OAc)2·H2O and bis[4‐(3‐ethoxysalicylideneamino)phenyl]methane (H2L1) or bis[4‐(3‐ethoxysalicylideneamino)phenyl]sulfide (H2L2) in a 1:1 THF/MeOH mixture leads to the formation of structure‐analogous CuII helicates of the composition [{Cu2L2}(H2O)2}]·4H2O. The helicates form left‐ and right‐handed hydrogen bonded strands using the bound water molecules as glue. Finally, a compact 3D arrangement of the molecules is achieved by weak π···π and CH···π interactions. The CuII ions possess a strongly distorted tetrahedral arrangement with a N2O2 donor set of the involved diimines. In addition, the molecular structure of the ligand H2L2 was determined and solution studies of the complex formation using UV/Vis and ESI‐MS were performed.
Model checking CML: tool development and industrial applications
Authors: Mota A. , Farias A. , Woodcock J. , Larsen P. G.
Published: September 2015

A model checker is an automatic tool that traverses a specific structure (normally a Kripke structure referred as the modelM) to check the satisfaction of some (temporal) logical propertyf. This is formally stated asM⊧f. For some formal notations, the modelMof a specificationS(written in a formal languageL) can be described as a labelled transition system (LTS). Specifically, it is not clear in general how usual tools such as SPIN, FDR, PAT, etc., create the LTS representation from a given process. Although one expects the coherence of the LTS generation with the semantics ofL, it is completely hidden inside the model checker itself. In this paper we show how to create a model checker forL, using a development approach based on its operational semantics. We use a systematic semantics embedding and the formal modeling using logic programming and analysis (FORMULA) framework to this end. We illustrate our strategy considering the formal language COMPASS modelling language (CML)—a new language that was based on CSP, VDM and the refinement calculus proposed for modelling and analysis of systems of systems. As FORMULA is based on satisfiability modulo theories solving, our model checker can handle communications and predicates involving data with infinite domains by building and manipulating a symbolic LTS. This goes beyond the capabilities of traditional CSP model checkers such as FDR and PAT. Moreover, we show how to reduce time and space complexities by simple semantic modifications in the embedding. This allows a more semantics-preserving tuning. Finally, we show a real implementation of our model checker in an integrated development platform for CML and its practical use on an industrial case study.
Sulfated Zirconium Catalyst for Synthesis of Dialkylated Diphenylether Disulfonate Gemini Surfactants
Authors: Jiao Tiliu , Liu Xiaochen , Wang Xiaoyu , Niu Jinping
Published: September 2015

Dialkylated diphenylether disulfonate with different alkyl chain lengths (Cn‐DADS, n = 8, 10 and 12) has been synthesized by Friedel‐Crafts alkylation of olefins (C8, C10 and C12) and diphenyl oxide, followed by sulfonation and neutralization with fuming sulfuric acid. Sulfated zirconia solid acids were prepared and used to catalyze the alkylation reaction. The structure of sulfated zirconia solid acids was identified by infrared spectroscopy. The title compounds were confirmed by infrared spectroscopy and electrospray ionization‐mass spectrometry. Equilibrium surface tension measurements show that the critical micelle concentration (CMC) decreases with an increase in chain length, and the surface tension at CMC (γcmc) of C8‐DADS is the lowest. The minimum area per molecule (Amin) values of Cn‐DADS increase, while the surface excess concentration (Γmax) values decrease with the increase of the alkyl chain length. C10‐DADS has the highest pC20 and CMC/C20 among Cn‐DADS.
Electron Transfer Pathways in Cholesterol Synthesis
Authors: Porter Todd D.
Published: September 2015

Cholesterol synthesis in the endoplasmic reticulum requires electron input at multiple steps and utilizes both NADH and NADPH as the electron source. Four enzymes catalyzing five steps in the pathway require electron input: squalene monooxygenase, lanosterol demethylase, sterol 4α‐methyl oxidase, and sterol C5‐desaturase. The electron‐donor proteins for these enzymes include cytochrome P450 reductase and the cytochrome b5 pathway. Here I review the evidence for electron donor protein requirements with these enzymes, the evidence for additional electron donor pathways, and the effect of deletion of these redox enzymes on cholesterol and lipid metabolism.
Measuring persistent and transient energy efficiency in the US
Authors: Filippini Massimo , Hunt Lester C.
Published: September 2015

The promotion of US energy efficiency policy is seen as a very important activity. Generally, the level of energy efficiency of a country or state is approximated by energy intensity, commonly calculated as the ratio of energy use to GDP. However, energy intensity is not an accurate proxy for energy efficiency given that changes in energy intensity are a function of changes in several factors including the structure of the economy, climate, efficiency in the use of resources, behaviour and technical change. The aim of this paper is to measure persistent and transient energy efficiency for the whole economy of 49 states in the US using a stochastic frontier energy demand approach. A total US energy demand frontier function is estimated using panel data for 49 states over the period 1995 to 2009 using two panel data models: the Mundlak version of the random effects model (which estimates the persistent part of the energy efficiency) and the true random effects model (which estimates the transient part of the energy efficiency). The analysis confirms that energy intensity is not a good indicator of energy efficiency, whereas, by controlling for a range of economic and other factors, the measures of energy efficiency obtained via the approach adopted here are. Moreover, the estimates show that although for some states energy intensity might give a reasonable indication of a state’s relative energy efficiency, this is not the case for all states.
Joining a conversation: the problem/gap/hook heuristic
Authors: Lingard Lorelei
Published: September 2015

None
PROSPER partnership delivery system: Effects on adolescent conduct problem behavior outcomes through 6.5 years past baseline
Authors: Spoth Richard L. , Trudeau Linda S. , Redmond Cleve , Shin Chungyeol , Greenberg Mark T. , Feinberg Mark E. , Hyun Gee‐Hong
Published: September 2015

We report long‐term effects of the PROSPER delivery system for universal evidence‐based preventive interventions on adolescent conduct problem behaviors (CPBs). A cluster randomized trial included 28 school districts assigned to PROSPER or a control condition. Community‐based teams in PROSPER condition school districts selected evidence‐based interventions—a family‐focused intervention in sixth grade and a school‐based intervention the next year; follow‐up assessments were conducted through 12th grade. CPBs were measured with 12 self‐report items derived from the National Youth Survey. Intervention‐control differences were tested via a multi‐level Zero‐Inflated Poisson (ZIP) model. Differences were significant from 9th through 12th grades; Relative Reduction Rates were between 10.1% and 14.5%. The intervention group was delayed in reaching a 10th grade reference level of CPBs by 10.7 months. Moderation analyses indicated stronger effects for early substance initiators. Findings suggest that the PROSPER delivery system has the potential to reduce CPBs in general populations.
Social cognition, psychopathological symptoms, and family functioning in a sample of inpatient adolescents using variable‐centered and person‐centered approaches
Authors: Gambin Malgorzata , Gambin Tomasz , Sharp Carla
Published: September 2015

The process of diagnosis and treatment planning for adolescents requires clinicians to integrate information about various domains of functioning especially: clinical signs and symptoms, social cognition and family functioning. In the current study we applied an integrative analytic approach to mirror case conceptualization by clinicians. Our analyses were performed on the data gathered from the 328 inpatient adolescents. We used a broad range of measures of social‐cognitive constructs, family functioning and parent‐and self‐reported psychopathology. Using a combination of variable‐based (PCA) and person‐centered (LCA) analyses we determined class membership of adolescents based on variation in social cognition, psychopathology, and family functioning. We identified five latent classes: two internalizing groups, two externalizing groups and a severe psychopathology group. Patterns of general hyperfunctioning (characterized by hypermentalizing and hypervigilance to emotional stimuli) and hypofunctioning (manifested in undermentalizing and under‐reactivity to emotional stimuli), can be observed in these groups.
Misfolded opsin mutants display elevatedβ‐sheet structure
Authors: Miller Lisa M. , Gragg Megan , Kim Tae Gyun , Park Paul S.-H.
Published: September 2015

Mutations in rhodopsin can cause misfolding and aggregation of the receptor, which leads to retinitis pigmentosa, a progressive retinal degenerative disease. The structure adopted by misfolded opsin mutants and the associated cell toxicity is poorly understood. Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) microspectroscopy were utilized to probe within cells the structures formed by G188R and P23H opsins, which are misfolding mutants that cause autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa. Both mutants formed aggregates in the endoplasmic reticulum and exhibited altered secondary structure with elevatedβ‐sheet and reducedα‐helical content. The newly formedβ‐sheet structure may facilitate the aggregation of misfolded opsin mutants. The effects observed for the mutants were unrelated to retention of opsin molecules in the endoplasmic reticulum itself.
Dissection and engineering of theEscherichia coli formate hydrogenlyase complex
Authors: McDowall Jennifer S. , Hjersing M. Charlotte , Palmer Tracy , Sargent Frank
Published: September 2015

TheEscherichia coli formate hydrogenlyase (FHL) complex is produced under fermentative conditions and couples formate oxidation to hydrogen production. In this work, the architecture of FHL has been probed by analysing affinity‐tagged complexes from various genetic backgrounds. In a successful attempt to stabilize the complex, a strain encoding a fusion between FdhF and HycB has been engineered and characterised. Finally, site‐directed mutagenesis of thehycG gene was performed, which is predicted to encode a hydrogenase subunit important for regulating sensitivity to oxygen. This work helps to define the core components of FHL and provides solutions to improving the stability of the enzyme.
Structure‐directed construction of a high‐performance version of the enzyme FabG from the photosynthetic microorganismSynechocystis sp. PCC 6803
Authors: Liu Yinghui , Feng Yanbin , Cao Xupeng , Li Xia , Xue Song
Published: September 2015

PhaB (acetoacetyl‐CoA reductase) catalyzes the reduction of acetoacetyl‐CoA to (R)‐3‐hydroxybutyryl‐CoA in polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) synthesis and FabG (3‐ketoacyl‐acyl‐carrier‐protein reductase) catalyzes the β‐ketoacyl‐ACP to yield (R)‐3‐hydroxyacyl‐ACP in fatty acid biosynthesis. Both of them have been classified into the same group EC 1.1.1. PhaB is limited with substrate specificities, while FabG was considered as a potential PhaB due to broad substrate selectivity despite of low activity. Here, X‐ray crystal structures of FabG and PhaB from the photosynthetic microorganismSynechocystis sp. PCC 6803 were resolved. Based on them, a high‐performance FabG on acyl‐CoA directed by structural evolution was constructed that may serve as a critical enzyme to partition carbon flow from fatty acid synthesis to PHA.
Intraspecific bimodal variability in eye lenses of two Devonian trilobites
Authors: Crônier Catherine , Budil Petr , Fatka Oldřich , Laibl Lukáš
Published: September 2015

Arthropods are known to display a variable number of eye lenses and this number mostly increases during their development. In trilobites, most species possessing schizochroal eyes exhibit a notable intraspecific variation in the number of dorso ventral files of eye lenses that can be age related (i.e., growth) or not (i.e., living environment). Several previous studies have shown that some trilobite groups (e.g. phacopids) tend to have fewer lenses/files in representatives from the deeper habitats than those from shallower habitats. In this study, we analyzed the pattern of variation in the number of dorso ventral files of eye lenses in two Devonian phacopid trilobites from the Prague Basin of the Czech Republic. We quantified their intraspecific variability. To better understand the patterning, we compared more than 120 individuals. Data first reveal evidence of a bimodal distribution of lens/file number without intermediate forms among each of two studied populations ofProkops prokopi(Chlupáč, 1971) and throughout the ontogeny ofPedinopariops insequens(Chlupáč, 1977). Our results indicate that caution must be taken for taxonomical affiliation and biodiversity analyses of taxa in which the intraspecific variability is unclear. Additionally, we investigated possible relations of these bimodalities to the stratigraphical position of studied populations and to the paleoenvironment. InProkops prokopi, a slightly different age of both populations, together with supposed differences in the local environments can be responsible for observed variability. InPedinopariops insequens, stress conditions possibly related to the approaching onset of the Basal Choteč Event can be responsible for surprising intrapopulation variability. We speculate that the stress conditions could cause a bimodal selection and possibly also the change of ontogenetic trajectory within this species.Pedinopariops insequenswas the only phacopid in the Prague Basin that crosses the Lower/Middle Devonian boundary and survived also the onset of Basal Choteč Event.
Spatial- and Spatiotemporal-Autoregressive Probit Models of Interdependent Binary Outcomes
Authors: Franzese Robert J. , Hays Jude C. , Cook Scott J.
Published: September 2015

Spatial/spatiotemporal interdependence—that is, that outcomes, actions or choices of some unit-times depend on those of other unit-times—is substantively important and empirically ubiquitous in binary outcomes of interest across the social sciences. Estimating and interpreting binary-outcome models that incorporate such spatial/spatiotemporal dynamics directly is difficult and rarely attempted, however. This article explains the inferential challenges posed by spatiotemporal interdependence in binary-outcome models and recent advances in their estimation. Monte Carlo simulations compare the performance of one of these consistent and asymptotically efficient methods (maximum simulated likelihood, using recursive importance sampling) to estimation strategies naïve about (inter-) dependence. Finally, it shows how to calculate, in terms of probabilities of outcomes, the estimated spatial/spatiotemporal effects of (and response paths to) hypotheticals of substantive interest. It illustrates with an application to civil war in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Folic acid supplements and risk for oral clefts in the newborn: a population-based study
Authors: Gildestad Trude , Bjørge Tone , Vollset Stein Emil , Klungsøyr Kari , Nilsen Roy Miodini , Haaland Øystein Ariansen , Øyen Nina
Published: September 2015

Results from previous studies on maternal folic acid intake and infant oral clefts are inconclusive. The aim of the present study was to investigate the association between women’s use of folic acid and/or multivitamin supplements and the risk for oral cleft in the newborn. We used data from the Medical Birth Registry of Norway based on all births in Norway from 1999 to 2013. A total of 528 220 women had 880 568 pregnancies, resulting in 896 674 live births and stillbirths, of which 1623 had oral clefts (isolated oral clefts,n1311; non-isolated oral clefts,n312). Altogether, 21·5 % of women were vitamin supplement users before pregnancy. The birth prevalence of oral clefts was 1·81/1000 live births and stillbirths. Relative risks (RR) were estimated with log-binomial regression. For pregnancies with maternal use of vitamins, the adjusted RR for clefts overall was 0·90 (95 % CI 0·79, 1·04). The adjusted RR for cleft palate only (n586) was 0·84 (95 % CI 0·66, 1·06) and that for cleft lip with or without cleft palate (n1037) was 0·94 (95 % CI 0·79, 1·13). Associations were stronger for cleft cases that occurred in combination with other malformations (adjusted RR 0·63; 95 % CI 0·45, 0·88), although vitamin supplements provided no protection against isolated clefts (adjusted RR 0·98; 95 % CI 0·84, 1·15). In conclusion, our study demonstrates no statistically significant association between vitamin use and isolated oral clefts. However, we found lower risk for oral clefts that occurred in combination with other malformations.
Dietary patterns and CVD: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies
Authors: Rodríguez-Monforte Míriam , Flores-Mateo Gemma , Sánchez Emília
Published: September 2015

Epidemiological studies show that diet is linked to the risk of developing CVD. The objective of this meta-analysis was to estimate the association between empirically derived dietary patterns and CVD. PubMed was searched for observational studies of data-driven dietary patterns that reported outcomes of cardiovascular events. The association between dietary patterns and CVD was estimated using a random-effects meta-analysis with 95 % CI. Totally, twenty-two observational studies met the inclusion criteria. The pooled relative risk (RR) for CVD, CHD and stroke in a comparison of the highest to the lowest category of prudent/healthy dietary patterns in cohort studies was 0·69 (95 % CI 0·60, 0·78;I2=0 %), 0·83 (95 % CI 0·75, 0·92;I2=44·6 %) and 0·86 (95 % CI 0·74, 1·01;I2=59·5 %), respectively. The pooled RR of CHD in a case–control comparison of the highest to the lowest category of prudent/healthy dietary patterns was 0·71 (95 % CI 0·63, 0·80;I2=0 %). The pooled RR for CVD, CHD and stroke in a comparison of the highest to the lowest category of western dietary patterns in cohort studies was 1·14 (95 % CI 0·92, 1·42;I2=56·9 %), 1·03 (95 % CI 0·90, 1·17;I2=59·4 %) and 1·05 (95 % CI 0·91, 1·22;I2=27·6 %), respectively; in case–control studies, there was evidence of increased CHD risk. Our results support the evidence of the prudent/healthy pattern as a protective factor for CVD.
ARISTOTLE ON PLACING GNOMONS ROUND (PH. 3.4, 203a10–15)
Authors: Ugaglia Monica , Acerbi Fabio
Published: September 2015

At Ph. 3.4, Aristotle begins his discussion of the Unlimited. As is customary with him, a preliminary to the investigation proper is set up: he presents and discusses other thinkers' opinions on the subject, from which to draw indications on the meaning—and possibly the existence—of the entity at issue. As for the question of what the Unlimited is, Aristotle points out that there is a complete agreement on two points: the Unlimited pertains to physics, and it presents itself as a principle of sorts. A matter of disagreement concerns the categorial status of the Unlimited: Plato and the Pythagoreans regard it as something existing per se, whereas the Physicists claim that it is only the attribute of something else. A concise exposition of these theories follows.
State of the Union: The Play, the Film, and the Progress of the Isolationist Bogey
Authors: GRANT DAVID
Published: September 2015

This article argues that the adaptation of the play State of the Union into a film made the changes to the original that were necessary in a rapidly developing Cold War political culture. Helpful in this project was the way in which a Cold War culture had borrowed from an earlier form of postwar internationalism. In particular, it appropriated the demonization of isolationists as breeders of a corrupt domestic American political system that threatened republicanism and world peace alike. Indeed, the continuity in the representation of isolationists in the immediate postwar period of the play and the very different period of the film helped to lend legitimacy to the otherwise new Cold War rhetoric. The film, therefore, was able to make only minor revisions to the play and yet serve entirely different ideological purposes.
Bone conduction implants – a rapidly developing field
Authors: Edmiston R C , Aggarwal R , Green K M J
Published: September 2015

Background:

Since their introduction in 1977, the technology and surgical techniques surrounding the use and application of bone-anchored hearing devices have developed considerably.

Objective:

This article reviews current developments in the use of bone-anchored hearing devices, looking at the possible options for patients, complications encountered and future possibilities.

Conclusion:

Advances in surgical technique are described, with the move towards the use of linear incisions and no soft tissue reduction. Methods for preventing complications are analysed, with review of different abutments and the introduction of the active bone conduction implant.
Spontaneous closure of traumatic tympanic membrane perforations: observational study
Authors: Jellinge M E , Kristensen S , Larsen K
Published: September 2015

Background:

The treatment of traumatic tympanic membrane perforations varies in different investigations, ranging from observation to early surgical repair. The present study aimed to focus on the closure rate and the closure time in a group of patients treated with a watchful waiting policy.

Methods:

The study comprised 133 consecutive patients with a total of 137 perforations. Data were evaluated in terms of aetiology, location and size of perforation, audiometric findings, closure rate, and closure time.

Results:

The overall closure rate was 97 per cent. For patients with a known closure time within three months, the median closure time was between three and four weeks. The probability of spontaneous closure over time was further analysed with Kaplan–Meier plots, for those perforations with known closure times and for all perforations including those with unknown closure times. Perforation size was the only significant determining factor for closure time.

Conclusion:

Small perforations had a high probability of spontaneous closure within three to four weeks, justifying a watchful waiting policy. Larger uncomplicated perforations might warrant early surgical repair, depending on the patient's needs and the availability of surgery.
Trade in dugong parts in Southern Bali
Authors: Lee Paige Biqi , Nijman Vincent
Published: September 2015

Dugong Dugong dugon Lacépède, 1799, a globally threatened marine mammal that occurs in the coastal waters of the Indian and Pacific Ocean, is traded in small numbers throughout their range. We surveyed 128 shops selling wildlife in seven (June 2013) and eight (July 2014) towns on the island of Bali, one of Indonesia's most popular tourist destinations. Dugongs are protected under Indonesian law and CITES Appendix I Iisting precludes international trade. Despite this dugong parts were observed in trade in Denpasar, Mengwi and Sanur where 14 traders were interviewed. We recorded over 130 dugong parts, including raw bones and teeth but also many carved items and some derivatives, with no noticeable difference between years. The most common items were cigarette pipes carved from, predominantly, dugong ribs, and decorative carvings from bone and teeth. The total value of the items observed was $1500–3000. The trade was open and qualitatively similar to trade in parts of non-protected species. Information from traders suggests that dugongs are caught throughout Indonesia, and are both targeted specifically and caught accidentally. It is imperative for the management of dugongs to take the illegal trade in dugong parts into account and for the authorities to curb the trade by taking appropriate action in line with Indonesia's legislation. Greater awareness of the plight of the dugong, including the impediments to their conservation posed by the illegal trade in body parts, by the residents of and visitors to Bali, may aid in pressuring the authorities to take these steps.
‘ROCK SPECTRALE’: THE CULTURAL IDENTITY OF THE ELECTRIC GUITAR IN TRISTAN MURAIL'S vampyr!
Authors: Jameson Ben
Published: September 2015

The electric guitar is one of the most iconic musical instruments of the twentieth and twenty-first centuries and, due to its ubiquitous use in much rock and popular music, it has developed a strong cultural identity. In recent years, as the electric guitar has become increasingly common in contemporary concert music, its cultural associations have inevitably shaped how composers, performers and listeners understand music performed on the instrument. This article investigates various issues relating to the electric guitar's cultural identity in the context of Tristan Murail's Vampyr! (1984), in the hope of demonstrating perspectives that will be useful in considering new music for the electric guitar more generally. The article draws both on established analytical approaches to Murail's spectral oeuvre and on concepts from popular music and cultural studies, in order to analyse the influence that the electric guitar's associations from popular culture have in new music.
Tectonics Glasgow, 1–3 May 2015
Authors: Hammond Matthew
Published: September 2015

Ilan Volkov's Tectonics series continues to break new ground in contemporary music programming and curating. Tectonics has now seen its third edition in Glasgow, where Volkov conducts the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, and has also sprung up in other locations to which he has connections – beginning in his home city of Tel Aviv, the series has spread also to Reykjavik, Adelaide and New York. The common theme is a blend of new commissions (usually orchestral works), important recent works, and performances from figures from other areas of avant-garde music making – free improvisation, electronic music and the outer fringes of noise and metal.