bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of Sahara desertification on Arctic cooling during the Holocene
Authors: Davies F. J. , Renssen H. , Blaschek M. , Muschitiello F.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. Since the start of the Holocene, temperatures in the Arctic have steadily declined. This has been accredited to the orbitally forced decrease in summer insolation reconstructed over the same period. However, we present climate modelling results here that indicate that up to 42% of the cooling in the Arctic, over the period 9–0 ka was a direct result of the desertification that occurred in the Sahara. Through a land–atmosphere teleconnection, increasing surface albedo in the Sahara leads to a regional increase in surface pressure, a weakening of the trade winds, the westerlies and the polar easterlies, which in turn reduces the meridional heat transported by the atmosphere to the Arctic. Additionally, through a series of targeted sensitivity experiments we explored the affects that using a modern cloud data set has upon mid and early Holocene climate simulations, and show that despite an apparent weakness in our model our original conclusions are robust. We conclude that interglacial climate is sensitive to changes in Sahara vegetation type, which has significance in the future debate of the response of the Sahara to climate change, considering the uncertainty surrounding future precipitation projections for this region.
Modelling of snow processes in catchment hydrology by means of downscaled WRF meteorological data fields
Authors: Förster K. , Meon G. , Strasser U.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. Detailed physically based snowmelt models require a complete set of meteorological forcing data at the model's scale. Besides precipitation and temperature, time series of humidity, wind speed, and radiation have to be provided. The availability of these time series is in many cases restricted to a few meteorological stations and consequently, snowmelt modelling is often highly uncertain. To overcome this dilemma, the suitability of downscaled atmospheric analysis data for physically based snowmelt simulations in hydrological modelling is studied. We used the Weather Research and Forecast model (WRF) to derive spatial and temporal fields of meteorological surface variables as boundary conditions for four different snowmelt models. The simulations were carried out at the point scale and at the catchment scale for the Sieber catchment (44.4 km2), Harz Mountains, Germany. For the latter, all snowmelt models were integrated into the hydrological modelling system PANTA RHEI. All models performed well at both scales. In conclusion, the presented approach is suitable to derive reliable estimates of snowpack and snowmelt processes as part of water balance and flood simulations for catchments exposed to snow.
Complex noise suppression and reconstruction of seismic reflection data from fault structures using Space Lagged Singular Spectral Analysis
Authors: Tiwari R. K. , Rajesh R. , Seshunarayana T. , Dhanam K.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. The seismic reflection data processing to identify thin coal beds and intrinsic fault structure associated with coalmines suffers from the coherent noise that arises due to interference and diffraction of seismic signals from adjacent horizontal boundaries on either sides of the fault structure. The amplitudes of the interfering reflections mislead the interpretation of geological features like faults, curved reflectors, etc. In particular, correlated and erratic noise create more severe problem than the random noise in the interpretation of such complex geological structures. Here, we employed Space Lagged Singular Spectral Analysis (SLSSA) algorithm, which decomposes the amplitudes from a constant time/depth to determine the original signal amplitude based on eigen properties of the signal. Thus, we can de-noise seismic signal to delineate the concealed discontinuities and to map the fault structures. Initially, we tested the algorithm on the synthetic data of fault structure embedded with complex mixed noise (random and colored) of known percentage. Finally, the method was employed on high-resolution seismic reflection observations recorded from Singareni coalfield, India. The SLSSA method reveals some significant kinematic fault structures in the coal-bearing zone, which agreed with regional fault structures in the PG basin and correlates well with available geological information in the area.
Review Essay: John Pratt and Anna Eriksson (2013) 'Contrasts in Punishment: An Explanation of Anglophone Excess and Nordic Exceptionalism'
Authors: Brown David , Hogg Russell , Finnane Mark , Pratt John , Eriksson Anna
Published: April 2014

This review essay combines the comments made by David Brown, Russell Hogg and Mark Finanne at the Crime, Justice and Social Democracy: 2nd International Conference July 2013. It is followed by a rejoinder by the two authors John Pratt and Anna Eriksson.
Revew Essay: Leanne Weber and Sharon Pickering (2011) 'Globalization and Borders: Death at the Global Frontier'
Authors: Rowe Elizabeth , Walters Reece , Grewcock Michael
Published: April 2014

This review essay combines the comments made by David Brown, Russell Hogg and Mark Finanne at the Crime, Justice and Social Democracy: 2nd International Conference July 2013, hosted by the Crime and Justice Research Centre, QUT Brisbane. It is followed by a reply by the two authors John Pratt and Anna Eriksson.
Community Safety and Crime Prevention Partnerships: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Sheperdson Patrick , Clancey Garner , Lee Murray , Crofts Thomas
Published: April 2014

In many jurisdictions around the world, community safety and crime prevention activity is supported by interagency committees. In the Australian state of New South Wales (NSW), local government Community Safety Officers (CSOs) lead, support or participate in a range of interagency and ‘whole of government’ networks, most of which were established to support central NSW state government crime prevention and community safety initiatives. Research was conducted with the aim of exploring the CSOs’ experience of the ‘whole of government’ partnerships established to support community safety and crime prevention in NSW.[i] The findings support international research which suggests that central-local partnerships are inhibited by different agendas, responsibilities and power dynamics across different levels of government. Some of the key contextual challenges for this work include concerns about costs shifting from State to local government and about shifting State government priorities; barriers to funding and to accessing crime (and other) data; and various administrative burdens. Consequently, we argued that there is a need for formal engagement and negotiation between, on the one hand, State government agencies that steer NSW crime prevention and, on the other, community safety policy initiatives and local government. Such engagement could help overcome the perception, indeed the reality, that shifting and dumping costs and responsibilities to local government is creating a range of burdens for CSOs. [i] The authors thank the NSW Local Government Community Safety and Crime Prevention Network and the individual local government CSOs who kindly assisted and contributed to this research.
Promoting Learning Outcomes Assessment in Higher Education:
Authors: Ndoye Abdou
Published: April 2014

This article presents results of a study on factors that contribute to successful learning outcomes assessment practices. This qualitative study uses the case study method to analyze factors of success in higher education programs. Interviews of faculty members reveal that factors such as communication, implementing assessment as a change initiative, and using a learning community approach are identified by study participants as the main facilitators of success.
Losers, Winners, and Their Crimes in the Context of the Themes of Józef Mackiewicz’s Selected Works
Authors: Bałżewska Katarzyna
Published: April 2014

The article gives an overview of Józef Mackiewicz’s outlook on the ambivalent status quo of World War II "winners" and "losers." The author of The Triumph of Provocation suggests that the only real winner in 1945 turned out to be communist ideology because after the war there were disproportions in perceptions of Nazi and communist war crimes. Mackiewicz, who was "a witness" to both German and Soviet murders (at Ponary and Katyń), also referred in his works to little known war facts about which it was "better not to talk aloud" and crimes and abuses of the Allies.
A Talk with Halik Kochański
Authors: Grondelski John M.
Published: April 2014

Dr. Halik Kochański, the author of a new, comprehensive history of World War II Poland, The Eagle Unbowed, holds a doctorate in war studies from King’s College, London. Born in Britain of Polish parents who met in London in 1946 (her father was deported with his family to Kazakhstan before joining the Anders Army, her mother left Poland in 1944, eventually reaching the United Kingdom via Italy), Dr. Kochański also holds a master’s degree from Oxford University. She taught briefly at University College London and King’s College, London. Her first book was Sir Garnet Wolseley: Victorian Hero, about an Anglo-Irish officer who served in military expeditions throughout the British Empire. She also contributed chapters to several books, the latest being a chapter on Poland in Women in War: From Home Front to Front Line. She is currently exploring various ideas for another book on some aspect of World War II.
A Dynamic Region Surging into the New Decade
Authors: Vadon Eric A
Published: April 2014

No abstract available DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjia.v0i8-9.126 The Mongolian Journal of International Affairs; Number 8-9, 2002, Pages 24-35
Genghis Khan and Modern Mongolian Identity: The Democracy Connection
Authors: Sabloff Paula LW
Published: April 2014

No abstract available DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjia.v0i8-9.127 The Mongolian Journal of International Affairs; Number 8-9, 2002, Pages 36-53
Mongol-Sino Economic Relations and Cooperation in the New Age of Globalization
Authors: Shurkhuu D
Published: April 2014

No abstract available DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjia.v0i8-9.130 The Mongolian Journal of International Affairs; Number 8-9, 2002, Pages 70-80
Present Situation of Kazakh-Mongolian Community
Authors: Baatar Ts
Published: April 2014

No abstract available DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjia.v0i8-9.132 The Mongolian Journal of International Affairs; Number 8-9, 2002, Pages 90-98
Investigating elevated copper and lead levels in school drinking water
Authors: Barn Prabjit , Nicol Anne-Marie , Struck Sylvia , Dosanjh Sabrina , Li Raymond , Kosatsky Tom
Published: April 2014

Copper and lead continue to be detected at levels above drinking water guidelines in Canadian schools. Although water is typically not an important source of these metals, intermittent use and corrosive water can cause copper and lead to leach from plumbing. Exposure to elevated copper levels is linked to acute gastrointestinal effects in the short term and possible liver effects in the long term, whereas even low level lead exposures are associated with neurodevelopmental effects. Because school water is not regularly monitored for corrosion metals, elevated concentrations are often brought to the attention of public health officials through unexpected circumstances. Here, the death of salmon eggs in a classroom aquarium triggered an investigation that found elevated levels of copper and lead in the school's drinking water. The investigation was then expanded to the school district. Copper and lead levels varied considerably across schools as well as in outlets located in the same school. The effectiveness of flushing, which was implemented as a mitigation strategy, was also found to differ by school building and outlet. Actions described in this case report may be informative for health authorities across Canada.
Análisis de la red de noticias científicas y técnicas del siglo XIX recuperadas del Boletín Oficial de la provincia de Badajoz (España)
Authors: Fernández Falero M. Rosario , Sánchez Gil Libertad , Peral Pacheco Diego
Published: April 2014

En este trabajo se recuperan y clasifican noticias científicas y técnicas del Boletín Oficial de la Provincia de Badajoz (España), correspondientes a un determinado periodo del siglo XIX, con la Nomenclatura internacional de la UNESCO para la ciencia y la tecnología, para su posterior automatización. Una vez clasificadas y contabilizadas las noticias, se tabulan los resultados y la representación matricial resultante se estudia mediante el análisis de redes, mostrando las tendencias de la ciencia y la tecnología en esta época, así como las relaciones entre las distintas áreas.En conclusión, podemos determinar que el análisis de la red de relaciones de las noticias científicas y técnicas es un método válido, dentro de las Ciencias Sociales, para el estudio de la información recuperada a través de las diferentes investigaciones historiográficas.[1] Sistema de clasificación del conocimiento ampliamente, creado y desarrollado por la UNESCO, usado en la ordenación de proyectos de investigación y de las tesis doctorales.
Behavioural assessment of dental pain in captive Malayan sun bears (Helarctos malayanus)
Authors: Fleming M , Burn CC
Published: April 2014

Captive bears are prone to developing dental pathology for reasons including longevity in captivity, inappropriate diet, trauma, and stereotypical bar biting. If not detected, this can cause pain and suffering, with negative welfare consequences. As animals cannot verbally express feelings, objective methods are required to detect pain. Some methods of pain assessment can be invasive and impractical but behavioural observations offer a non-invasive alternative. Behavioural assessment for the detection of pain has been described in some domestic species but little published research has applied this to wild animal species. Eight Malayan sun bears(Helarctos malayanus)required dental extractions under anaesthesia. Their behaviour was observed, alongside a control cohort with no visible disease, pre-operatively and at one, two and four weeks post-operatively, when it was assumed the pain had resolved from the original pathology and surgery performed. Behavioural indices measured included general activity, social behaviours, stereotypies, eating-related behaviours and oro-facial behaviours hypothesised to be affected by dental pain. Bears that had received treatment took significantly longer to eat hard sugarcane pre-operatively compared to four weeks post-operatively, and took longer to eat soft porridge one week post-operatively compared to four weeks post-operatively. Untreated bears tended to be more active outdoors one week postoperatively compared to the treatment cohort. Results suggest that using hard foods and assessing the duration of eating behaviours could be useful to indicate dental pain in sun bears. General behavioural assessment of dental pain in sun bears is unlikely to be effective as a single diagnostic tool, but may be combined with other methods of assessment, and further research into this area is warranted.
Are severely depressed suckling pigs resistant to gas euthanasia?
Authors: Sadler LJ , Karriker LA , Schwartz KJ , Johnson AK , Widowski TM , Wang C , Sutherland MA , Millman ST
Published: April 2014

Severely depressed pigs exhibit differences in a number of important parameters that may affect gas euthanasia, including decreased respiration rate and tidal volume. Hence, the objectives of this study were to assess the efficacy and animal welfare implications of gas euthanasia of suckling pigs with varied disease severity (severely depressed [DP] vs other [OT]). A 2 × 2 factorial design was utilised with two gas types (carbon dioxide [CO2]; argon [Ar]) and two flow rates (G = gradual, 35% box volume exchange per min [BVE min−1]; P = prefill + 20% BVE min−1). Sixty-two pigs were enrolled and tested as DP/OT pairs in each gas treatment combination. Pigs identified for euthanasia were assigned a subjective depression score (0 = normal to 3 = severely depressed). Pigs scored 3 and ≤ 1 were categorised as DP and OT, respectively. Significantly lower respiration, rectal temperature, pulse and weight were observed for the DP pigs relative to OT. Pigs were assessed for behavioural indicators of efficacy and welfare. No differences were observed between DP and OT when using P-CO2or G-CO2. However in P-Ar, DP had greater latency to loss of consciousness relative to OT (212 [± 22] vs 77 [± 22] s), decreased latency to last limb movement (511 [± 72] vs 816 [± 72] s), greater duration of open-mouth breathing (151 [± 21] vs 69 [± 21] s), decreased duration ataxia (101 [± 42] vs 188 [± 42] s) and decreased righting response (27 [± 11] vs 63 [± 11] s). The G-Ar treatment was removed due to ethical concerns associated with prolonged induction. In conclusion, depression score did not affect pig responses to euthanasia with CO2gas, but did affect responses to Ar. Furthermore, Ar was associated with a prolonged euthanasia process, including frequencies and durations of distress behaviours.
Estimating the economic value of Australian stock herding dogs
Authors: Arnott ER , Early JB , Wade CM , McGreevy PD
Published: April 2014

This study aimed to estimate the value of the typical Australian herding dog in terms of predicted return on investment. This required an assessment of the costs associated with owning herding dogs and estimation of the work they typically perform. Data on a total of 4,027 dogs were acquired through The Farm Dog Survey which gathered information from 812 herding dog owners around Australia. The median cost involved in owning a herding dog was estimated to be a total of AU$7,763 over the period of its working life. The work performed by the dog throughout this time was estimated to have a median value of AU$40,000. So, herding dogs typically provided their owners with a 5.2-fold return on investment. When respondents were asked to nominate the maximal, one-off, veterinary expenditure they would consider to remedy an illness or injury for an especially valued dog, the median response was AU$1,001-2,000 which is not concordant with the dogs’ calculated median lifetime value. The current findings equip working dog owners with useful information to make financially appropriate expenditure decisions related to their working dogs. This is expected to increase farm profitability and improve welfare for farm dogs.
Measuring the efficacy of flunixin meglumine and meloxicam for lame sows using nociceptive threshold tests
Authors: Pairis-Garcia MD , Johnson AK , Stalder KJ , Karriker LA , Coetzee JF , Millman ST
Published: April 2014

Lameness in breeding swine can cause severe pain leading to on-farm welfare issues and significant economic impacts. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs including meloxicam and flunixin meglumine are commonly used in veterinary medicine for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Pressure algometry and thermal sensitivity tests are non-invasive methods to quantify pain sensitivity using nociceptive thresholds to provoke withdrawal responses on lame and sound legs. The objective of this work was to determine the effects of these drugs on nociceptive thresholds in sows induced lame using pressure algometry and thermal sensitivity tests. Lameness was induced in 24 mature, mixed-parity sows using a chemical synovitis model and three treatments were compared: meloxicam (1.0 mg kg−1PO), flunixin meglumine (2.2 mg kg−1IM) and sterile saline (IM). Pressure algometry was measured on sound and lame rear legs with three replicates at three landmarks. Thermal sensitivity tests were done on sound and lame rear legs with three replicates using a thermal stimulus at one landmark. From 37 to 72 h after lameness induction, meloxicam- and flunixin meglumine-treated sows tolerated higher pressure algometer nociceptive thresholds compared to saline-treated sows. Changes in thermal nociceptive thresholds were evident at the Tmaxtime-points for meloxicam administration and 72 and 168 h post lameness induction for flunixin meglumine-treated sows. In conclusion, flunixin meglumine and meloxicam administration mitigated pain sensitivity in lame sows post lameness induction when pain sensitivity was evaluated with pressure algometry. These analgesic drugs may be a key tool to manage pain associated with lameness.
Effects of Lactic Acid Fermentation on the Retention of Β-Carotene Content in Orange Fleshed Sweet Potatoes
Authors: Oloo Benard O. , Shitandi A. A. , Mahungu S. , Malinga J. B. , Ogata Rose B.
Published: April 2014

This study aimed to establish the effects of lactic fermentation on the levels of β-carotene in selected  orange fleshed sweet potato (OFSP) varieties from Kenya.  Furthermore,it sought to demonstrate fermentation as a potential process for making new products from sweet potato with enhanced nutraceutical attributes. The varieties (Zapallo, Nyathiodiewo and SPK004/06) were fermented with Lactobacillus plantarum MTCC 1407 at 25 ± 2°C for 48 h and kept for 28 days to make lacto-pickles. During fermentation both analytical [pH, titratable acidity (TA), lactic acid (LA), starch, total sugar, reducing sugar (g/kg roots), texture (N/m2), β-carotene (mg/kg roots)] and sensory (texture, taste, flavour and after taste) attributes of sweet potato lacto-juice were evaluated. Process conditions were optimized by varying brine levels, with fermentation time. A UV-visible spectrophotometer was used to identify and quantify β-carotene. Any significant variations (p < 0.05) in analytical attributes between the fermented and unfermented samples (pH, LA, TA and β-carotene concentration) of lacto-pickles, prepared from the potato roots, were assessed. The study reported a final composition of 156.49mg/kg, 0.53mg/kg, 0.3N/m2, 1.3g/kg, 5.86g/kg, 0.5g/kg and 5.86g/kg for β-carotene, Ascorbic acid, texture; Starch, total sugars, LA and TA respectively, and a pH of 3.27. The fermented products were subjected to flavour profiling by a panel. The product sensory scores were 1.5 to 2.5 on a 5 point hedonic scale, ranging from dislike slightly to like much. The products with brine levels at 4 and 6% were most preferred. The retention of β-carotene was 93.97%. This demonstrated lactic acid fermentation as a better method for processing OFSP as the main nutritional attributes are retained. The final product was resistant to spoilage microorganisms after 28 days of fermentation. Further preservation could be obtained by addition of sodium metabisulphite. In conclusion, Lactic acid fermentation using L. plantarum is a novel method of producing Lacto pickles from Zapallo OFSP, with 93.97% β-carotene retention and adequate shelf life.
Vegetable milks and their fermented derivative products
Authors: Bernat Neus , Cháfer Maite , Chiralt Amparo , González-Martínez Chelo
Published: April 2014

The so-called vegetable milks are in the spotlight thanks to their lactose-free, animal protein-free and cholesterol-free features which fit well with the current demand for healthy food products. Nevertheless, and with the exception of soya, little information is available about these types of milks and their derivatives. The aims of this review, therefore, are to: highlight the main nutritional benefits of the nut and cereal vegetable milks available on the market, fermented or not; describe the basic processing steps involved in their manufacturing process; and analyze the major problems affecting their overall quality, together with the current feasible solutions. On the basis of the information gathered, vegetable milks and their derivatives have excellent nutritional properties which provide them a high potential and positive market expectation. Nevertheless, optimal processing conditions for each raw material or the application of new technologies have to be researched in order to improve the quality of the products. Hence, further studies need to be developed to ensure the physical stability of the products throughout their whole shelf-life. These studies would also allow for a reduction in the amount of additives (hydrocolloids and/or emulsifiers) and thus reduce the cost of the products. In the particular case of fermented products, the use of starters which are able to both improve the quality (by synthesizing enhanced flavors and providing optimal textures) and exert health benefits for consumers (i.e. probiotics) is the main challenge to be faced in future studies.
Linking variability in soil solution dissolved organic carbon to climate, soil type, and vegetation type
Authors: Camino‐Serrano Marta , Gielen Bert , Luyssaert Sebastiaan , Ciais Philippe , Vicca Sara , Guenet Bertrand , Vos Bruno De , Cools Nathalie , Ahrens Bernhard , Altaf Arain M. , Borken Werner , Clarke Nicholas , Clarkson Beverley , Cummins Thomas , Don Axel , Pannatier Elisabeth Graf , Laudon Hjalmar , Moore Tim , Nieminen Tiina M. , Nilsson Mats B. , Peichl Matthias , Schwendenmann Luitgard , Siemens Jan , Janssens Ivan
Published: April 2014

Lateral transport of carbon plays an important role in linking the carbon cycles of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. There is, however, a lack of information on the factors controlling one of the main C sources of this lateral flux, i.e., the concentration of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) in soil solution across large spatial scales and under different soil, vegetation, and climate conditions. We compiled a database on DOC in soil solution down to 80 cm and analyzed it with the aim, first, to quantify the differences in DOC concentrations among terrestrial ecosystems, climate zones, soil, and vegetation types at global scale and second, to identify potential determinants of the site‐to‐site variability of DOC concentration in soil solution across European broadleaved and coniferous forests. We found that DOC concentrations were 75% lower in mineral than in organic soil, and temperate sites showed higher DOC concentrations than boreal and tropical sites. The majority of the variation (R2 = 0.67–0.99) in DOC concentrations in mineral European forest soils correlates with NH4+, C/N, Al, and Fe as the most important predictors. Overall, our results show that the magnitude (23% lower in broadleaved than in coniferous forests) and the controlling factors of DOC in soil solution differ between forest types, with site productivity being more important in broadleaved forests and water balance in coniferous stands.
Summit low‐angle faults in the Central Apennines of Italy: Younger‐on‐older thrusts or rotated normal faults? Constraints for defining the tectonic style of thrust belts
Authors: Pace Paolo , Domenica Alessandra Di , Calamita Fernando
Published: April 2014

Low‐angle faults that juxtapose younger rocks over older ones are widely documented in fold‐thrust belts, and reconstruction of tectonic style is strictly dependent on their interpretation. Various modes exist for generating hinterland‐dipping low‐angle faults with younger‐on‐older relationships. Indeed, in the Central Apennines of Italy, the hinterland‐dipping younger‐on‐older low‐angle faults, which rest on the summits of the major anticlines (i.e., summit low‐angle faults), have been interpreted variously as younger‐on‐older thrusts within out‐of‐sequence thrust systems, postorogenic normal faults, gravity‐driven slides, or as rotated prethrusting normal faults. In this study, we provide a new and robust structural‐geological data set, corroborated with stratigraphic timing constraints and balanced geological cross sections, bringing an essential contribution to the interpretation of the hinterland‐dipping younger‐on‐older low‐angle faults as preexisting normal faults rotated within the shortcut anticlines during the Neogene thrust‐related fold emplacement. A detailed geological and structural characterization carried out on four remarkable examples from the Central Apennines allowed reconstructing an inversion tectonics model. The lack or reverse reactivation of the rotated prethrusting normal faults here analyzed is consistent with fault bend and fault propagation folding models associated with break forward in‐sequence thrust propagation implying more conservative estimates of shortening for the Central Apennines thrust system, compared to the previous out‐of‐sequence models. Taking into account the various possible causes for the development of hinterland‐dipping younger‐on‐older low‐angle faults, the structural‐geological characterization presented in this study and the results achieved could be critically applied when examining similar structures in other thrust belts.
A novel framework for quantifying past methane recycling by Sphagnum‐methanotroph symbiosis using carbon and hydrogen isotope ratios of leaf wax biomarkers
Authors: Nichols Jonathan E. , Isles Peter D. F. , Peteet Dorothy M.
Published: April 2014

The concentration of atmospheric methane is strongly linked to variations in Earth's climate. Currently, we can directly reconstruct the total atmospheric concentration of methane, but not individual terms of the methane cycle. Northern wetlands, dominated by Sphagnum, are an important contributor of atmospheric methane, and we seek to understand the methane cycle in these systems. We present a novel method for quantifying the proportion of carbon Sphagnum assimilates from its methanotrophic symbionts using stable isotope ratios of leaf‐wax biomarkers. Carbon isotope ratios of Sphagnum compounds are determined by two competing influences, water content and the isotope ratio of source carbon. We disentangled these effects using a combined hydrogen and carbon isotope approach. We constrained Sphagnum water content using the contrast between the hydrogen isotope ratios of Sphagnum and vascular plant biomarkers. We then used Sphagnum water content to calculate the carbon isotope ratio of Sphagnum's carbon pool. Using a mass balance equation, we calculated the proportion of recycled methane contributed to the Sphagnum carbon pool, “PRM.” We quantified PRM in peat monoliths from three microhabitats in the Mer Bleue peatland complex. Modern studies have shown that water table depth and vegetation have strong influences on the peatland methane cycle on instrumental time scales. With this new approach, δ13C of Sphagnum compounds are now a useful tool for investigating the relationships among hydrology, vegetation, and methanotrophy in Sphagnum peatlands over the time scales of entire peatland sediment records, vital to our understanding of the global carbon cycle through the Late Glacial and Holocene.
Resonance scattering of sunlight by modulation of temporal coherence in microscale water aerosol
Authors: Penchev Stoyan
Published: April 2014

Resonance scattering of sunlight is an effect deduced from a rare atmospheric phenomenon known as solar glory. Its impressive spectral appearance is established by optical interference at precise modulation of the temporal coherence of sunlight within delaylines of microscale water droplets confined by refractive index. A ray‐tracing method is used in the study correlated with analysis of the simulated convolution spectrum of backscatter pattern. Resonance modes of low finesse are formed on spectrally isolated intracavity optical paths preventing their destructive interference. The relevant modal wavelengths and diffraction angles are derived for selected temperature and droplet size. Simultaneously, the model explains the alternating polarization of the successive diffraction series.
On the mechanisms of low‐frequency wave attenuation by muddy seabeds
Authors: Torres‐Freyermuth Alec , Hsu Tian‐Jian
Published: April 2014

Low‐frequency (LF) wave energy increases as the waves shoal into shallow waters. However, recent field observations reported an unexpected near‐shore LF wave energy dissipation on muddy seabeds, which cannot be explained by the classic two‐layer formulation. Therefore, this phenomenon has been ascribed to either direct dissipation or nonlinear energy transfer. We investigate, by means of a two‐layer nonlinear model, the role of the wave nonlinearity and mud viscosity in controlling these two competing mechanisms of mud‐induced LF wave attenuation. Bispectral analysis of the simulated cases reveals the existence of three distinct LF wave attenuation regimes, which determine if the LF wave energy losses are owing to either nonlinear energy transfer or direct dissipation. These regimes can be predicted based on the Ursell number, whereas the mud viscosity controls the amount of energy transfer. The present findings clarify apparent inconsistencies in the literature regarding the mechanisms of LF wave attenuation by mud.
Bouguer gravity anomaly and isostasy at western Sichuan Basin revealed by new gravity surveys
Authors: Fu Guangyu , Gao Shanghua , Freymueller Jeffrey T. , Zhang Guoqing , Zhu Yiqing , Yang Guangliang
Published: April 2014

A dense relative gravity and Global Positioning System observation network with 302 stations was measured in the western Sichuan Basin (SB) to study gravity and isostasy. Bouguer Gravity Anomalies are negative in the study area, and change gradually from about −110 mGal (10‐ 5m s‐ 2) in the southeast to −220 mGal in the northwest. The new data reveal that the Moho beneath the western SB changes gradually from 39.5 km in the southeast to 43.7 km in the northwest and is inclined slightly to the northwest beneath the Chengdu Plain. The isostatic crustal thickness calculated by Airy isostatic theory varies between 39.5 and 42.0 km. The Longquan Shan (LQS) marks a clear boundary in the state of isostastic compensation in the study area. The Moho depth is almost identical to the Airy isostatic crustal thickness east of the LQS, where the crust is in isostatic balance. However, on the Chengdu Plain west of the LQS, differences between the Moho depth and Airy isostatic crustal thickness became larger from east to west, where the crust is out of isostatic balance. This indicates that the load of the Longmen Shan (LMS) on the west part of the crust of SB is mainly borne by the crust beneath the Chengdu Plain, and does little influence the crust east of the LQS. As a result we deduce that the LQS fault zone is a deeply rooted high angle fault zone that was broken by the load of the LMS.
VAV1 and BAFF, via NFκB pathway, are genetic risk factors for myasthenia gravis
Authors: Avidan Nili , Le Panse Rozen , Harbo Hanne F. , Bernasconi Pia , Poulas Konstantinos , Ginzburg Elizabeta , Cavalcante Paola , Colleoni Lara , Baggi Fulvio , Antozzi Carlo , Truffault Frédérique , Horn‐Saban Shirley , Pöschel Simone , Zagoriti Zoi , Maniaol Angelina , Lie Benedicte A. , Bernard Isabelle , Saoudi Abdelhadi , Illes Zsolt , Casasnovas Pons Carlos , Melms Arthur , Tzartos Socrates , Willcox Nicholas , Kostera‐Pruszczyk Anna , Tallaksen Chantal , Mantegazza Renato , Berrih‐Aknin Sonia , Miller Ariel
Published: April 2014

Objective

To identify novel genetic loci that predispose to early‐onset myasthenia gravis (EOMG) applying a two‐stage association study, exploration, and replication strategy.

Methods

Thirty‐four loci and one confirmation loci, human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐DRA, were selected as candidate genes by team members of groups involved in different research aspects of MG. In the exploration step, these candidate genes were genotyped in 384 EOMG and 384 matched controls and significant difference in allele frequency were found in eight genes. In the replication step, eight candidate genes and one confirmation loci were genotyped in 1177 EOMG patients and 814 controls, from nine European centres.

Results

Allele frequency differences were found in four novel loci: CD86, AKAP12, VAV1, B‐cell activating factor (BAFF), and tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α), and these differences were consistent in all nine cohorts. Haplotype trend test supported the differences in allele frequencies between cases and controls. In addition, allele frequency difference in female versus male patients at HLA‐DRA and TNF‐α loci were observed.

Interpretation

The genetic associations to EOMG outside the HLA complex are novel and of interest as VAV1 is a key signal transducer essential for T‐ and B‐cell activation, and BAFF is a cytokine that plays important roles in the proliferation and differentiation of B‐cells. Moreover, we noted striking epistasis between the predisposing VAV1 and BAFF haplotypes; they conferred a greater risk in combination than alone. These, and CD86, share the same signaling pathway, namely nuclear factor‐kappaB (NFκB), thus implicating dysregulation of proinflammatory signaling in predisposition to EOMG.
Cooperative catalytic activity of cyclodextrin and Ag nanoparticles immobilized on spherical polyelectrolyte brushes
Authors: Liu Jianjia , Wang Jie , Zhu Zhongming , Li Li , Guo Xuhong , Lincoln Stephen F. , Prud'homme Robert K.
Published: April 2014

Significance

Spherical polyelectrolyte brushes (SPB) loaded with silver nanoparticles (Ag‐NP) were synthesized, and they were characterized in aqueous solution using TEM, ICP‐AES and UV‐vis spectroscopy. While the size distribution of the Ag‐NP synthesized at a given temperature is quite uniform this distribution varies with change in synthesis temperature. The Ag‐NP have a strong catalytic effect on the reduction of 4‐nitrophenol to 4‐aminophenol by NaBH4. The addition of α‐cyclodextrin (α‐CD) further accelerates this 4‐nitrophenol reduction and modifies the associated activation parameters. This is attributed to α‐CD complexing 4‐nitrophenol in the vicinity of the Ag‐NP surface and thereby aiding the catalysis. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 60: 1977–1982, 2014
Controlling thickener underflow rheology using a temperature responsive flocculant
Authors: Franks George V. , O'Shea John‐Paul , Forbes Elizaveta
Published: April 2014

Continuous solid–liquid separations with the temperature responsive flocculant poly (N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) were conducted in a pilot‐scale thickener for the first time, using fine quartz as the feed slurry. The performance in continuous operation was compared to batch sedimentation. The increase in sediment consolidation on cooling in batch sedimentation was less significant in the continuous operation due to kinetic limitations of the deeper sediment bed and shorter residence times in the pilot‐scale thickener. The reduction in underflow rheology which results when using the temperature responsive polymer as flocculant is significant. Paste‐like behavior results when underflow is discharged at 50°C, whereas low viscosity, near Newtonian behavior results when the underflow is discharged at 20°C. Compared to conventional polyacrylamide‐based flocculants, PNIPAM produces higher concentration underflow but lower clarity overflow and most importantly, significantly reduced underflow rheology (viscosity and yield stress). Temperature responsive flocculants have significant potential to reduce underflow pumping energy and cost for mineral tailings. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 60: 2940–2948, 2014
Modeling of cavern formation in yield stress fluids in stirred tanks
Authors: Xiao Qi , Yang Ning , Zhu Jiahua , Guo Liejin
Published: April 2014

Prediction of cavern formation in yield stress fluids in stirred tanks is of great importance for optimization. A new torus model is developed and then validated by experimental data and computational fluid dynamics simulation. Unlike existing mathematical models, the new torus model assumes that the circular center of the torus should not be outside the impeller swept region as the Reynolds number (Re) increases. Hence the cavern boundary is shaped like an apple torus rather than a horn torus. The new model also considers the cavern‐vessel interactions. At relatively high Re, the new model predicts cavern shape and size better than other models. It correctly captures the cavern outline at various Re, which verified the assumption about torus center. The new model is then used to identify the influence of rheological parameters on cavern formation, and further extended to the cavern prediction of the dual‐impeller system. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 60: 3057–3070, 2014
Brief communication: Developmental versus functional three‐dimensional geometric morphometric‐based modularity of the human proximal humerus
Authors: Arias‐Martorell Julia , Potau Josep Maria , Bello‐Hellegouarch Gaëlle , Pérez‐Pérez Alejandro
Published: April 2014

The proximal humerus is formed by three secondary ossification centers during the postnatal trajectory of the human infant. The ossification centers later grow into the structures of the articular surface, major tubercle, and minor tubercle. There is a purported functional division between the articular surface and the tubercles, with the articular surface mainly responsible for the range of movement of the shoulder joint, and the tubercles bearing the insertions of the rotator cuff muscles, mainly devoted to securing the joint against humeral displacement. Using three‐dimensional geometric morphometrics, we tested the presence of such developmental and functional divisions in the proximal humerus, applying the RV coefficient of Escoufier to these a priori hypothesized modules. Our results indicate that the proximal humerus might be a generally integrated structure. However, a weak signal for modular configuration was present, with slightly stronger support for the two modules depicting the boundaries between the purported functional regions of the epiphysis: the articular surface and the tubercles. Am J Phys Anthropol 154:459–465, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Binuclear Gold(I) Complex with Mixed Bridging Diphosphine and Bis(N‐Heterocyclic Carbene) Ligands Shows Favorable Thiol Reactivity and Inhibits Tumor Growth and Angiogenesis In Vivo
Authors: Zou Taotao , Lum Ching Tung , Lok Chun‐Nam , To Wai‐Pong , Low Kam‐Hung , Che Chi‐Ming
Published: April 2014

In the design of anticancer gold(I) complexes with high in vivo efficacy, tuning the thiol reactivity to achieve stability towards blood thiols yet maintaining the thiol reactivity to target cellular thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) is of pivotal importance. Herein we describe a dinuclear gold(I) complex (1‐PF6) utilizing a bridging bis(N‐heterocyclic carbene) ligand to attain thiol stability and a diphosphine ligand to keep appropriate thiol reactivity. Complex 1‐PF6 displays a favorable stability that allows it to inhibit TrxR activity without being attacked by blood thiols. In vivo studies reveal that 1‐PF6 significantly inhibits tumor growth in mice bearing HeLa xenograft and mice bearing highly aggressive mouse B16‐F10 melanoma. It inhibits angiogenesis in tumor models and inhibits sphere formation of cancer stem cells in vitro. Toxicology studies indicate that 1‐PF6 does not show systemic anaphylaxis on guinea pigs and localized irritation on rabbits.
The Corporation: Variants of an Unconscious Phantasy in European Cultural Discourse
Authors: Schmelowszky Ágoston
Published: April 2014

The need to be unified with our fellow human beings, once and for all to eliminate the pain and terror of separation and to regain a kind of primordial harmony, is a powerful unconscious phantasy that has been elaborated in European cultural discourse as the Corporation. The idea can be found in ancient religious texts and, later, in medieval political and theological discourse. Rationality plays a part to differing degrees in these elaborations, notably in: political philosophy, where the symbol provided ideological support to a fundamental aspect of the existing political order; in religious contexts (in the New Testament) it was used as a mythical image to depict the unity of the nascent Christian Church; finally, in its mystical elaboration (as in the so‐called Measurement of the Body motif) it is at our disposal in its purest, visionary form, open to psychoanalytic interpretation. The paper explores the different versions of this tradition using theories of various psychoanalytic schools to interpret them. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
THE KNICKKOPF DOMON DOMAIN IS ESSENTIAL FOR CUTICLE DIFFERENTIATION IN Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Shaik Khaleelulla Saheb , Wang Yiwen , Aravind L. , Moussian Bernard
Published: April 2014

The dopamine monoxygenase N‐terminal (DOMON) domain is found in extracellular proteins across several eukaryotic and prokaryotic taxa. It has been proposed that this domain binds to heme or sugar moieties. Here, we have analyzed the role of four highly conserved amino acids in the DOMON domain of the Drosophila melanogaster Knickkopf protein that is inserted into the apical plasma membrane and assists extracellular chitin organization. In principal, we generated Knickkopf versions with exchanged residues tryptophan299, methionine333, arginine401, or histidine437, and scored for the ability of the respective engineered protein to normalize the knickkopf mutant phenotype. Our results confirm the absolute necessity of tryptophan299, methionine333, and histidine437 for Knickkopf function and stability, the latter two being predicted to be critical for heme binding. In contrast, arginine401 is required for full efficiency of Knickkopf activity. Taken together, our genetic data support the prediction of these residues to mediate the function of Knickkopf during cuticle differentiation in insects. Hence, the DOMON domain is apparently an essential factor contributing to the construction of polysaccharide‐based extracellular matrices.
Improved Transplant‐Free Survival in Patients With Systemic Sclerosis–Associated Pulmonary Hypertension and Interstitial Lung Disease
Authors: Volkmann Elizabeth R. , Saggar Rajeev , Khanna Dinesh , Torres Bryant , Flora Arjan , Yoder Lynne , Clements Philip J. , Elashoff Robert M. , Ross David J. , Agrawal Harsh , Borazan Nabeel , Furst Daniel E. , Saggar Rajan
Published: April 2014

Objective

Survival in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc)–associated pulmonary hypertension (PH) and interstitial lung disease (ILD) is poor. Evidence supporting the efficacy of aggressive pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH)–targeted therapy in this population is limited. The aim of this study was to investigate transplant‐free survival in patients with isolated SSc‐related PAH or SSc‐related PH‐ILD who were treated with aggressive PAH‐targeted therapy.

Methods

SSc patients with right‐sided heart catheterization (RHC)–diagnosed precapillary PH (mean pulmonary artery pressure ≥25 mm Hg, pulmonary capillary wedge pressure ≤15 mm Hg, and pulmonary vascular resistance ≥240 dynes × second/cm5) were included. Patients were classified as having ILD based on review of high‐resolution computed tomography (CT) chest imaging and spirometry. The Kaplan‐Meier method was applied and Cox proportional hazards models were constructed to analyze survival and identify predictive variables.

Results

Of 99 patients with SSc‐related precapillary PH, 28% had SSc‐related PAH and 72% had SSc‐related PH‐ILD. The 1‐ and 2‐year survival estimates were, respectively, 72% and 59% in the SSc‐related PH‐ILD group versus 82% and 66% in the SSc‐related PAH group (P = 0.5). Within 6 months of the diagnostic RHC, 24% of all patients were started on prostanoid therapy; an additional 24% were started on prostanoid therapy after 6 months. In the multivariate model, male sex (hazard ratio [HR] 0.7, P = 0.01) and prostanoid therapy initiation within 6 months of the RHC (HR 1.4, P = 0.01) were the only factors significantly associated with transplant‐free survival, after accounting for the presence of ILD and severity of PH.

Conclusion

In this study, survival of patients with SSc‐related PH‐ILD was modestly improved relative to historical series. While these findings may not be generalizable, improved survival may be due partly to aggressive PAH‐targeted therapy.