bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quaternary morphotectonic mapping of the Wadi Araba and implications for the tectonic activity of the southern Dead Sea fault
Authors: Le Béon Maryline , Klinger Yann , Mériaux Anne‐Sophie , Al‐Qaryouti Mahmoud , Finkel Robert C. , Mayyas Omar , Tapponnier Paul
Published: August 2012

The Dead Sea strike‐slip fault accommodates the northward motion of Arabia relative to Sinai at a rate of ∼5 mm/yr. The southern segment of the fault, the Wadi Araba fault, runs along a valley blanketed in Quaternary sediments. We first focused on understanding the relative and absolute timing of emplacement of the alluvial surfaces. We then determined the probable source of the sediments before assessing their lateral offset to constrain the late Pleistocene fault slip rate. Seven successive morphostratigraphic levels were identified. At two sites, we recognized an alluvial sequence of five to seven successive levels with ages getting younger northward, a pattern consistent with the western block moving southward relative to two fixed feeding channels located to the east. Surface samples were collected for10Be cosmogenic radionuclide dating. Fans F3 and F5 were found to be synchronous from site to site, at 102 ± 26 ka and 324 ± 22 ka, respectively, while F4 could be dated at 163 ± 19 ka at one site only. These are minimum ages, assuming no erosion of the alluvial surfaces. At least two of these periods are correlated with wet periods that are regionally well documented. Further analyses of tectonic offsets are affected in most cases by large uncertainties due to the configuration of the sites. They indicate maximum offsets of ∼5.5 km for the oldest, possibly ∼1 Ma old, surfaces. They lead to bracketing of the fault slip rate between 5 and 12 mm/yr, with preferred values of 5–7 mm/yr, for the last 300 ka.
Synthesis and evaluation of stable substrate analogs as potential modulators of cyclodiphosphate synthase IspF
Authors: Kipchirchir Bitok J. , Meyers Caren Freel
Published: August 2012

Stable IspF substrate analogs display distinct and unexpected properties as modulators of IspF and IspF–MEP activities.
Spectroscopy above the ionization threshold: Dissociative recombination of the ground vibrational level of ${\rm N}_{\rm 2}^{\rm + }$N2+
Authors: Guberman Steven L.
Published: August 2012

Comprehensive theoretical calculations are reported for the dissociative recombination of the lowest vibrational level of the ${\rm N}_{\rm 2}^{\rm + }$N2+ ground state. Fourteen dissociative channels, 21 electron capture channels, and 48 Rydberg series including Rydberg states having the first excited state of the ion as core are described for electron energies up to 1.0 eV. The calculation of potential curves, electron capture and predissociation widths, cross sections and rate constants are described. The cross sections and rate constants are calculated using Multichannel Quantum Defect Theory which allows for efficient handling of the Rydberg series. The most important dissociative channel is 23Πu followed by 43Πu. Dissociative states that do not cross the ion within the ground vibrational level turning points play a significant role in determining the cross section structure and at isolated energies can be more important than states having a favorable crossing. By accounting for autoionization, the interactions between resonances, between dissociative states, and between resonances and dissociative states it is found that the cross section can be viewed as a complex dissociative recombination spectrum in which resonances overlap and interfere. The detailed cross section exhibits a rapid variation in atomic quantum yields for small changes in the electron energy. A study of this rapid variation by future high resolution storage ring experiments is suggested. A least squares fit to the calculated rate constant from the ground vibrational level is $2.2 \frac{{+0.2}}{{ - 0.4}} \times 10^{ - 7} \times ({\rm T}_{\rm e} /300)^{ - 0.40} \,{\rm cm}^3 /\sec$2.2+0.2−0.4×10−7×(Te/300)−0.40 cm 3/sec for electron temperatures, Te, between 100 and 3000 K and is in excellent agreement with experimentally derived values.
Coarsening kinetics of topologically highly correlated grain boundary networks
Authors: Tang Ming , Reed Bryan W. , Kumar Mukul
Published: August 2012

We apply phase-field simulations in two dimensions to study the thermal coarsening of grain boundary (GB) networks with high fractions of twin and twin-variant boundaries, which for example are seen in grain-boundary-engineered FCC materials. Two types of grain boundary networks with similar starting special boundary fractions but different topological features were considered as initial conditions for the grain growth simulations. A lattice Monte Carlo method creates polycrystalline microstructures (Reed and Kumar (RK)), which exhibit hierarchical organization of random and special coincidence site lattice boundaries. The other type of microstructures (randomly distributed (RD)) contains random distributions of special boundaries subject only to crystallographic constraints. Under the assumption that random boundaries have larger energy and much higher mobility than special boundaries, simulations show that increasing the initial special boundary fraction in both microstructures slows down grain growth. However, the two starting microstructures exhibit very different behavior in the evolution of GB character and triple junction (TJ) distributions. The RD networks coarsened more slowly than the RK networks with comparable initial fractions of special boundaries. The observed trend in the evolution of the RK microstructures is explained by an extended von Neumann-Mullins analysis. This study demonstrates that the special boundary fraction is not a sufficient indicator of the coarsening behavior of twinned GB networks; the network topology must also be considered to correctly predict the grain growth kinetics.
Characterization of guided acoustic waves in an arbitrary direction with full-field instantaneous maps of the acoustic displacement
Authors: Luís Deán-Ben X. , Trillo Cristina , Doval Ángel F. , Fernández José L.
Published: August 2012

The full-field optical measurement of guided acoustic waves presents important advantages derived from the capability to map the acoustic field in a two dimensional region, so that acoustic information over a large area can be retrieved with each measurement. In this work, we introduce an extension of the well-established two dimensional spatio-temporal Fourier transform method to calculate the frequency spectrum of guided acoustic waves. For this, we take advantage of the unique capability of a self-developed double-pulsed television holography system to acquire the acoustic displacement field in two spatial dimensions and time. Then, the spatio-temporal Fourier transform method is expanded to three dimensions according to the nature of the experimental data, so that the frequency spectrum of the waves propagating in an arbitrary direction can be calculated. The method is tested experimentally by generating narrowband Lamb waves in an aluminium plate with a piezoelectric transducer. The good agreement between the theoretical and experimental spectra in a broad zone anticipates the applicability of the method to characterize guided acoustic waves as a function of the propagation direction in materials or structures presenting anisotropic propagation behaviour.
Substituent effects on packing entropy and film morphologies in the nucleation of functionalized pentacenes on SiO2 substrate: Molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Chen Shuang , Ma Jing
Published: August 2012

The changes in structural ordering, packing entropy, free energy, and film morphologies in the initial nucleation processes of pentacene (Pn), 6, 13-bis(t-butylethynyl) pentacene (t-Bu Pn), and 6, 13-bis(triisopropylsilylethynyl) pentacene (TIPS Pn) on the SiO2 substrate were investigated, by using the molecular dynamics simulations. During the nucleation, the rod-like Pn molecules tend to diffuse rapidly and have different orientations on the SiO2 surface. At the low coverage, the t-Bu Pn and TIPS Pn molecules with the branched topological structures almost lie flat on the substrate. On the basis of statistical distribution of various packing configurations of the functionalized Pn pairs, the packing entropy is estimated according to the Boltzmann formula. The packing entropy abruptly decreases in the early stage of deposition. Once the critical nucleus size is reached, the packing entropy converges to a constant value. As the coverage increases, the monolayer films of Pn and its branched derivatives become more ordered. The TIPS Pn with the relatively larger molecular area would occasionally stand on the surface during the nucleation, resulting in the dramatic changes in free energy. In the monolayers, the functionalized Pn molecules are packing more orderly than those in amorphous solids, but less orderly than those in crystals. The degree of order of these monolayers increases as the size of the substituents increases. The understanding of substituent effects on nucleation processes and packing structures is helpful to fabricate organic thin films with well-predefined molecular orientations.
The Oxford-Diamond In Situ Cell for studying chemical reactions using time-resolved X-ray diffraction
Authors: Moorhouse Saul J. , Vranješ Nenad , Jupe Andrew , Drakopoulos Michael , O’Hare Dermot
Published: August 2012

A versatile, infrared-heated, chemical reaction cell has been assembled and commissioned for the in situ study of a range of chemical syntheses using time-resolved energy-dispersive X-ray diffraction (EDXRD) on Beamline I12 at the Diamond Light Source. Specialized reactor configurations have been constructed to enable in situ EDXRD investigation of samples under non-ambient conditions. Chemical reactions can be studied using a range of sample vessels such as alumina crucibles, steel hydrothermal autoclaves, and glassy carbon tubes, at temperatures up to 1200 °C.
Molecular basis for negative regulation of the glucagon receptor
Authors: Koth Christopher M. , Murray Jeremy M. , Mukund Susmith , Madjidi Azadeh , Minn Alexandra , Clarke Holly J. , Wong Terence , Chiang Vicki , Luis Elizabeth , Estevez Alberto , Rondon Jesus , Zhang Yingnan , Hötzel Isidro , Allan Bernard B.
Published: August 2012

Members of the class B family of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) bind peptide hormones and have causal roles in many diseases, ranging from diabetes and osteoporosis to anxiety. Although peptide, small-molecule, and antibody inhibitors of these GPCRs have been identified, structure-based descriptions of receptor antagonism are scarce. Here we report the mechanisms of glucagon receptor inhibition by blocking antibodies targeting the receptor's extracellular domain (ECD). These studies uncovered a role for the ECD as an intrinsic negative regulator of receptor activity. The crystal structure of the ECD in complex with the Fab fragment of one antibody, mAb1, reveals that this antibody inhibits glucagon receptor by occluding a surface extending across the entire hormone-binding cleft. A second antibody, mAb23, blocks glucagon binding and inhibits basal receptor activity, indicating that it is an inverse agonist and that the ECD can negatively regulate receptor activity independent of ligand binding. Biochemical analyses of receptor mutants in the context of a high-resolution ECD structure show that this previously unrecognized inhibitory activity of the ECD involves an interaction with the third extracellular loop of the receptor and suggest that glucagon-mediated structural changes in the ECD accompany receptor activation. These studies have implications for the design of drugs to treat class B GPCR-related diseases, including the potential for developing novel allosteric regulators that target the ECDs of these receptors.
Gene balance hypothesis: Connecting issues of dosage sensitivity across biological disciplines
Authors: Birchler James A. , Veitia Reiner A.
Published: August 2012

We summarize, in this review, the evidence that genomic balance influences gene expression, quantitative traits, dosage compensation, aneuploid syndromes, population dynamics of copy number variants and differential evolutionary fate of genes after partial or whole-genome duplication. Gene balance effects are hypothesized to result from stoichiometric differences among members of macromolecular complexes, the interactome, and signaling pathways. The implications of gene balance are discussed.
Ribosomal protein S1 unwinds double-stranded RNA in multiple steps
Authors: Qu Xiaohui , Lancaster Laura , Noller Harry F. , Bustamante Carlos , Tinoco Ignacio
Published: August 2012

The sequence and secondary structure of the 5′-end of mRNAs regulate translation by controlling ribosome initiation on the mRNA. Ribosomal protein S1 is crucial for ribosome initiation on many natural mRNAs, particularly for those with structured 5′-ends, or with no or weak Shine-Dalgarno sequences. Besides a critical role in translation, S1 has been implicated in several other cellular processes, such as transcription recycling, and the rescuing of stalled ribosomes by tmRNA. The mechanisms of S1 functions are still elusive but have been widely considered to be linked to the affinity of S1 for single-stranded RNA and its corresponding destabilization of mRNA secondary structures. Here, using optical tweezers techniques, we demonstrate that S1 promotes RNA unwinding by binding to the single-stranded RNA formed transiently during the thermal breathing of the RNA base pairs and that S1 dissociation results in RNA rezipping. We measured the dependence of the RNA unwinding and rezipping rates on S1 concentration, and the force applied to the ends of the RNA. We found that each S1 binds 10 nucleotides of RNA in a multistep fashion implying that S1 can facilitate ribosome initiation on structured mRNA by first binding to the single strand next to an RNA duplex structure (“stand-by site”) before subsequent binding leads to RNA unwinding. Unwinding by multiple small substeps is much less rate limited by thermal breathing than unwinding in a single step. Thus, a multistep scheme greatly expedites S1 unwinding of an RNA structure compared to a single-step mode.
Brefeldin A-inhibited ADP-ribosylation factor activator BIG2 regulates cell migration via integrin β1 cycling and actin remodeling
Authors: Shen Xiaoyan , Li Chun-Chun , Aponte Angel M. , Shen Rong-Fong , Billings Eric M. , Moss Joel , Vaughan Martha
Published: August 2012

Brefeldin A-inhibited guanine nucleotide-exchange protein (BIG)2 activates ADP-ribosylation factors, ∼20-kDa GTPase proteins critical for continuity of intracellular vesicular trafficking by accelerating the replacement of ADP-ribosylation factor-bound GDP with GTP. Mechanisms of additional BIG2 function(s) are less clear. Here, the participation of BIG2 in integrin β1 cycling through actin dynamics during cell migration was identified using small interfering RNA (siRNA) and difference gel electrophoresis analyses. After a 72-h incubation with BIG2 siRNA, levels of cytosolic Arp2, Arp3, cofilin-1, phosphocofilin, vinculin, and Grb2, known to be involved in the effects of integrin β1-extracellular matrix interactions on actin function and cell translocation, were increased. Treatment of HeLa cells with BIG2 siRNA resulted in perinuclear accumulation of integrin β1 and its delayed return to the cell surface. Motility of BIG2-depleted cells was simultaneously decreased, as were actin-based membrane protrusions and accumulations of Arp2, Arp3, cofilin, and phosphocofilin at the leading edges of migrating cells, in wound-healing assays. Taken together, these data reveal a mechanism(s) through which BIG2 may coordinate actin cytoskeleton mechanics and membrane traffic in cell migration via integrin β1 action and actin functions.
An integrated transcriptional regulatory circuit that reinforces the breast cancer stem cell state
Authors: Polytarchou Christos , Iliopoulos Dimitrios , Struhl Kevin
Published: August 2012

Cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) are a highly tumorigenic cell type present as a minority population in developmentally diverse tumors and cell lines. Using a genetic screen in an inducible model of CSC formation in a breast cell line, we identify microRNAs (miRNAs) that inhibit CSC growth and are down-regulated in CSCs. Aside from the previously identified miR-200 family, these include the miR-15/16 (miR-16, miR-15b) and miR-103/107 (miR-103, miR-107) families as well as miR-145, miR-335, and miR-128b. Interestingly, these miRNAs affect common target genes that encode the Bmi1 and Suz12 components of the polycomb repressor complexes as well as the DNA-binding transcription factors Zeb1, Zeb2, and Klf4. Conversely, expression of the CSC-modulating miRNAs is inhibited by Zeb1 and Zeb2. There is an inverse relationship between the levels of CSC-regulating miRNAs and their respective targets in samples from triple-negative breast cancer patients, providing evidence for the relevance of these interactions in human cancer. In addition, combinatorial overexpression of these miRNAs progressively attenuates the growth of CSCs derived from triple-negative breast cancers. These observations suggest that CSC formation and function are reinforced by an integrated regulatory circuit of miRNAs, transcription factors, and chromatin-modifying activities that can act as a bistable switch to drive cells into either the CSC or the nonstem state within the population of cancer cells.
Exploring the additive effects of stimulus quality and word frequency: The influence of local and list-wide prime relatedness
Authors: Scaltritti Michele , Balota David A. , Peressotti Francesca
Published: August 2012

Stimulus quality and word frequency produce additive effects in lexical decision performance, whereas the semantic priming effect interacts with both stimulus quality and word frequency effects. This pattern places important constraints on models of visual word recognition. In Experiment 1, all three variables were investigated within a single speeded pronunciation study. The results indicated that the joint effects of stimulus quality and word frequency were dependent upon prime relatedness. In particular, an additive effect of stimulus quality and word frequency was found after related primes, and an interactive effect was found after unrelated primes. It was hypothesized that this pattern reflects an adaptive reliance on related prime information within the experimental context. In Experiment 2, related primes were eliminated from the list, and the interactive effects of stimulus quality and word frequency found following unrelated primes in Experiment 1 reverted to additive effects for the same unrelated prime conditions. The results are supportive of a flexible lexical processor that adapts to both local prime information and global list-wide context.
Zero distribution and factorization of analytic functions of slow growth in the unit disc
Authors: Chyzhykov I.
Published: August 2012

For a meromorphic function

f
f

in the unit disc, let the

ρ
∞

\rho _\infty

-order of the growth be the limit of the orders of

L
p

L_p

-norms of

log
⁡

|

f
(
r

e

i
θ

)

|

\log |f(re^{i\theta })|

over the circle. In the case when the order of the maximum modulus function is smaller than 1, we describe zero distribution of canonical products and derive a new factorization theorem and logarithmic derivative estimates.
Contrasting trends in sea ice and primary production in the Bering Sea and Arctic Ocean
Authors: Brown Zachary W. , Arrigo Kevin R.
Published: August 2012

Brown, Z. W., and Arrigo, K. R. 2012. Contrasting trends in sea ice and primary production in the Bering Sea and Arctic Ocean. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 69: . Satellite remote sensing data were used to examine recent trends in sea-ice cover and net primary productivity (NPP) in the Bering Sea and Arctic Ocean. In nearly all regions, diminished sea-ice cover significantly enhanced annual NPP, indicating that light-limitation predominates across the seasonally ice-covered waters of the northern hemisphere. However, long-term trends have not been uniform spatially. The seasonal ice pack of the Bering Sea has remained consistent over time, partially because of winter winds that have continued to carry frigid Arctic air southwards over the past six decades. Hence, apart from the “Arctic-like” Chirikov Basin (where sea-ice loss has driven a 30% increase in NPP), no secular trends are evident in Bering Sea NPP, which averaged 288 ± 26 Tg C year−1 over the satellite ocean colour record (1998–2009). Conversely, sea-ice cover in the Arctic Ocean has plummeted, extending the open-water growing season by 45 d in just 12 years, and promoting a 20% increase in NPP (range 441–585 Tg C year−1). Future sea-ice loss will likely stimulate additional NPP over the productive Bering Sea shelves, potentially reducing nutrient flux to the downstream western Arctic Ocean.
Trophic interactions of meso- and macrozooplankton and fish in the Iceland Sea as evaluated by fatty acid and stable isotope analysis
Authors: Petursdottir Hildur , Falk-Petersen Stig , Gislason Astthor
Published: August 2012

Petursdottir, H., Falk-Petersen, S., and Gislason, A. 2012. Trophic interactions of meso- and macrozooplankton and fish in the Iceland Sea as evaluated by fatty acid and stable isotope analysis. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 69: . A trophic study was carried out in August of 2007 and 2008 on the pelagic ecosystem in the Subarctic Iceland Sea. Carbon and nitrogen stable isotopes and fatty acid biomarkers were used to study trophic linkages and the trophic ecology of the most important pelagic species in this ecosystem, with emphasis on capelin (Mallotus villosus). According to 15N enrichment results, there are 3–4 trophic levels in this ecosystem excluding organisms of the microbial loop and birds and mammals. The primarily herbivorous copepod Calanus hyperboreus occupies the lowest trophic level of the animal species studied, and adult capelin and blue whiting (Micromesistius poutassou) occupy the highest level. Calanus spp. proved to be an important dietary component of most of the species studied, the euphausiid species Thysanoessa inermis and T. longicaudata being exceptions. The chaetognath Eukrohnia hamata is a pure carnivore, feeding heavily on Calanus spp., whereas most of the other zooplankton species studied practice an omnivorous–carnivorous feeding mode. The amphipod species Themisto libellula is important in the diet of adult capelin. Adult capelin and blue whiting share the same feeding habits and could therefore be competing for food.
Comparative studies of climate effects on polar and subpolar ocean ecosystems, progress in observation and prediction: an introduction
Authors: Drinkwater Kenneth F. , Hunt George L. , Astthorsson Olafur S. , Head Erica J. H.
Published: August 2012

Drinkwater, K. F., Hunt, G. L. Jr, Astthorsson, O. S., and Head, E. J. H. 2012. Comparative studies of climate effects on polar and subpolar ocean ecosystems, progress in observation and prediction: an introduction. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 69: . Background to and content of this part-product of the second ESSAS (Ecosystem Studies of Sub-Arctic Seas) symposium is provided, along with a call for future work of such nature to be continued, expanded, and enhanced, specifically with a view to determining global variations in resources and dynamics attributable to climate change.
Establishing an allergic eczema model employing recombinant house dust mite allergens Der p 1 and Der p 2 in BALB/c mice
Authors: Szalai Krisztina , Kopp Tamara , Lukschal Anna , Stremnitzer Caroline , Wallmann Julia , Starkl Philipp , Vander Elst Luc , Saint‐Remy Jean‐Marie , Pali‐Schöll Isabella , Jensen‐Jarolim Erika
Published: August 2012

The major house dust mite allergens Der p 1 and Der p 2 are prevalent inducers of eczema. Der p 1 is a cysteine protease disrupting epithelial barriers, whereas Der p 2 functionally mimics the LPS‐binding compound MD‐2 within the TLR4 complex. In this work, we tested the percutaneous sensitizing capacity of recombinant (r) Der p 1 and Der p 2 in BALB/c mice. Mice were sensitized by percutaneous application of low (10 μg/application) and high dose (100 μg) rDer p 1 or rDer p 2, or with rDer p 1 followed by rDer p 2. Allergen‐specific and total IgE antibodies were determined by ELISA. Eczema of BALB/c was classified by the itching score and corresponded to erosions. Infiltrating immune cells were identified by haematoxylin/eosin and Giemsa staining for eosinophils or mast cells, CD3 staining for T lymphocytes. Percutaneous treatments with rDer p 1, but not rDer p 2‐induced specific IgG1. However, cotreatment with rDer p 1 led to increase in anti‐Der p 2 IgG titres. Both allergens elicited skin erosions because of scratching, thickening of the epidermis, and eosinophil and T‐cell infiltration. Our data indicate that recombinant mite allergens in the absence of adjuvant are sufficient for inducing eczema in BALB/c mice. As the enzymatic activity of an allergen might be an important cofactor for specific sensitization via the skin, Der p 1 may act as adjuvant for other allergens too. The presented mouse model is suitable for investigating the mechanisms of allergic eczema.
Healthcare service provider perceptions of organisational communication across the perioperative pathway: a questionnaire survey
Authors: Braaf Sandra , Manias Elizabeth , Finch Sue , Riley Robin , Munro Fiona
Published: August 2012

Aims and objectives.  To gain understandings into service providers’ perceptions of organisational communication and identify areas for improvement across the perioperative pathway.

Background.  Effective communication among healthcare service providers is vital to the delivery of safe and quality patient care. Locally and internationally, research into sentinel and adverse events consistently demonstrate the perioperative environment and communication breakdown as recurring constituents in the generation of sentinel and adverse patient events.

Design.  Prospective cross‐sectional survey design.

Methods.  Using a whole population sampling method all service providers from across the perioperative pathway including surgeons, nurses, anaesthetists, theatre technicians, patient service assistants and receptionists were surveyed using the International Communication Association survey. Responses were analysed using descriptive statistics, univariate analysis of variance and independent samples t‐tests.

Results.  In total, 281 service providers from the perioperative pathway of three Australian public hospitals completed the survey. Respondents were dissatisfied with communication from top management and service providers employed in an operating room or postanaesthetic care unit perceived the communication of information to be inadequate. Further, analysis by service providers’ occupation revealed nurses were less satisfied with channels of information than surgeons and anaesthetists were less satisfied with the timeliness of information than nurses.

Conclusions.  Restricted communication flow was evident as many areas of organisational communication were reported to be insufficient for the transmission of information. This research highlights the need for improved communication flow between service providers, and between management and service providers, working across the perioperative pathway.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Areas identified for communication improvement can be used to prevent communication failures and promote effective communication strategies such as meetings, education, providing time for open communication and developing organisational policy and procedures.
A qualitative study to investigate the drivers and barriers to healthy eating in two public sector workplaces
Authors: Pridgeon A. , Whitehead K.
Published: August 2012

Background

Workplaces are a key setting for improving the health of employees and influencing the health of the local population. The present study aimed to provide a deeper understanding of the perceptions and views of staff on the drivers and barriers to the provision, promotion and consumption of healthier food choices in two public sector workplaces.

Methods

A mixture of catering and other staff (n = 23) employed by either Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council or Barnsley Primary Care Trust were interviewed. Purposive sampling was used to ensure representation of different grades, job roles, hours worked, gender and age groups. All interviews were conducted in the workplace and were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using framework analysis.

Results

Four themes that influence food and healthy eating in the workplace were identified: workplace structures and systems; cost, choice and availability of food; personal versus institutional responsibility; and food messages and marketing. Interviewees perceived that foods promoted in the workplace were traditional ‘stodgy’ foods and that there was a limited availability of affordable healthy choices. Catering staff were driven to run their service as a business rather than promote health. Time constraints and tight deadlines imposed on staff led to some not eating at midday.

Conclusions

There is little qualitative research published about food in the workplace. This unique qualitative study has elicited staff views and experiences and suggests complexity around healthy eating and food provision in the workplace. The findings may inform the planning of future workplace interventions.
Evolution of a novel lysine decarboxylase in siderophore biosynthesis
Authors: Burrell Matthew , Hanfrey Colin C. , Kinch Lisa N. , Elliott Katherine A. , Michael Anthony J.
Published: August 2012

Structural backbones of iron‐scavenging siderophore molecules include polyamines 1,3‐diaminopropane and 1,5‐diaminopentane (cadaverine). For the cadaverine‐based desferroxiamine E siderophore in Streptomyces coelicolor, the corresponding biosynthetic gene cluster contains an ORF encoded by desA that was suspected of producing the cadaverine (decarboxylated lysine) backbone. However, desA encodes an l‐2,4‐diaminobutyrate decarboxylase (DABA DC) homologue and not any known form of lysine decarboxylase (LDC). The only known function of DABA DC is, together with l‐2,4‐aminobutyrate aminotransferase (DABA AT), to synthesize 1,3‐diaminopropane. We show here that S. coelicolor desA encodes a novel LDC and we hypothesized that DABA DC homologues present in siderophore biosynthetic clusters in the absence of DABA AT ORFs would be novel LDCs. We confirmed this by correctly predicting the LDC activity of a DABA DC homologue from a Yersinia pestis siderophore biosynthetic pathway. The corollary was confirmed for a DABA DC homologue, adjacent to a DABA AT ORF in a siderophore pathway in the cyanobacterium Anabaena variabilis, which was shown to be a bona fide DABA DC. These findings enable prediction of whether a siderophore pathway will utilize 1,3‐diaminopropane or cadaverine, and suggest that the majority of bacteria use DABA AT and DABA DC for siderophore, rather than norspermidine/polyamine biosynthesis.
A serious canker disease caused by Immersiporthe knoxdaviesiana gen. et sp. nov. (Cryphonectriaceae) on native Rapanea melanophloeos in South Africa
Authors: Chen S. F. , Wingfield M. J. , Roets F. , Roux J.
Published: August 2012

Recent disease surveys in the Western Cape province of South Africa have revealed a previously unknown and serious stem canker disease on native Rapanea melanophloeos (Myrsinaceae, Ericales) trees. Cankers commonly result in the death of branches or entire stems. Fruiting structures typical of fungi in the Cryphonectriaceae were observed on the surfaces of cankers. In this study, the fungus was identified and its pathogenicity to R. melanophloeos was tested. Multigene phylogenetic analyses based on DNA sequences of the partial LSU gene, ITS region of the nuclear ribosomal DNA gene and two regions of the β‐tubulin (BT) gene, showed that the fungus represents a formerly undescribed genus and species in the Cryphonectriaceae. The fungus was also morphologically distinct from other genera in this family. Inoculation trials showed that the fungus described here as Immersiporthe knoxdaviesiana gen. et sp. nov. is an aggressive pathogen of R. melanophloeos trees.
Development of isolate‐specific markers for Neofusicoccum parvum and N. luteum and their use to study rainwater splash dispersal in the vineyard
Authors: Baskarathevan J. , Jaspers M. V. , Jones E. E. , Ridgway H. J.
Published: August 2012

Unique bands were identified in single isolates of Neofusicoccum parvum and Neofusicoccum luteum using universally primed polymerase chain reaction (UP‐PCR) analysis of isolates obtained from grapevines and non‐grapevine hosts in New Zealand, Australia, South Africa and the USA. Primers were designed to amplify a 1550 bp portion of the 1573 bp marker band from N. parvum isolate B2141 and a 510 bp portion of the 524 bp marker band from N. luteum isolate G51a2. A PCR‐RFLP assay was developed to distinguish the N. parvum isolate B2141 from other N. parvum isolates, based on a polymorphism found in the marker band using the TaqI restriction endonuclease. For N. luteum isolate G51a2, the designed primers were specific at an annealing temperature of 63°C in the PCR. The sensitivity threshold of the N. parvum and N. luteum isolate‐specific markers was 50 pg and 5 pg, respectively, when used in standard PCR with purified genomic DNA. The sensitivity of the N. parvum isolate‐specific marker was increased to 0·5 pg by nested PCR. The specificity test of both isolate‐specific markers with six other Botryosphaeriaceae spp. showed that they were specific to their respective species and isolates. Both markers were able to detect the conidia of N. parvum and N. luteum marker isolates in rainwater samples collected at different distances from an inoculation point in the vineyard. The results showed that rain splash could disperse the conidia of both of these species up to 2 m from the inoculum point in a single rainfall event.
Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography is safe and effective for the diagnosis and treatment of pancreaticobiliary disease following abdominal organ transplant in children
Authors: Otto Alana K. , Neal Matthew D. , Mazariegos George V. , Slivka Adam , Kane Timothy D.
Published: August 2012

Otto AK, Neal MD, Mazariegos GV, Slivka A, Kane TD. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography is safe and effective for the diagnosis and treatment of pancreaticobiliary disease following abdominal organ transplant in children.

Abstract:  ERCP is a diagnostic and therapeutic imaging modality widely used in adult pancreaticobiliary disease, including the treatment of anastomotic strictures following liver and small bowel transplant. We have previously reported a large series of ERCP in children and demonstrated its safety and utility in pediatric disease. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety of and indications for ERCP following abdominal organ transplant among pediatric patients by performing a subgroup analysis of our large cohort. Forty‐eight ERCPs were performed on 25 children ages 62 days to 20 yr following isolated liver, isolated small bowel, or composite graft transplant. Mean time from transplantation at the time of ERCP was 18 months. The most common indication for ERCP was the evaluation of non‐specific hepatobiliary complaints, including abdominal pain and elevated liver enzymes. ERCP was also commonly performed for the evaluation or treatment of known or suspected biliary tree strictures. Seventy‐seven percent of cases included therapeutic intervention, including sphincterotomy in 40%, stent placement in 29%, and stone extraction in 19%. The overall complication rate among post‐transplant patients was low (2.9%) and not significantly different than the complication rate reported in our previous study. A history of abdominal organ transplant was not associated with an increased risk of complication following ERCP (OR = 0.41, 95% CI = 0.05–3.33). In our experience, ERCP can be safely performed in children following liver, small bowel, and composite graft transplant with outcomes similar to those seen in a general pediatric population and may be especially useful for the diagnosis and treatment for biliary strictures following transplant. Further investigation of the relationship between the timing of ERCP relative to transplant and the safety of the procedure is needed.
Analysis of a large single‐center experience with robot‐assisted pyeloplasty
Authors: Tobis Scott , Venigalla Sriram , Balakumaran Kathir , Scosyrev Emelian , Lloyd Granville L , Golijanin Dragan J , Joseph Jean V , Rashid Hani , Wu Guan
Published: August 2012

Objectives:  To report a single‐center experience with robot‐assisted pyeloplasty.

Methods:  Medical records of 100 consecutive robot‐assisted pyeloplasty cases carried out between May 2004 and August 2010 were retrospectively reviewed, and major perioperative parameters were recorded. Patients underwent functional (renal scan) and/or anatomical (ultrasound or computerized tomoghraphy) imaging at 6 months.

Results:  The mean patient age was 39.8 years. A total of 12 patients underwent prior attempts at repair. Ureteral stents were placed in all patients except one, and closed‐suction drains were placed in 59 patients. There were two intraoperative complications and two postoperative complications requiring surgical intervention. One patient with a complex prior surgical history developed a urine leak that was managed with prolonged drainage. A total of 42 patients were discharged on postoperative day 1, and 44 were discharged on postoperative day 2. Mean length of follow up was 22.8 months. The operative success rate was 96%.

Conclusions:  The majority of patients undergoing robot‐assisted pyeloplasty can expect a short hospitalization with minimal morbidity. The operative success rate is high, even in patients with prior attempts at repair. Complication rates including urine leaks are quite low, and routine placement of a closed‐suction drain is likely to be unnecessary.
The other colonic polyposis syndromes
Authors: Omundsen Mark , Lam Francis F.
Published: August 2012

Familial colorectal cancer syndromes have been increasingly recognized and through their characterization have contributed to our understanding of the genetic basis of colorectal cancer. The two main syndromes of familial adenomatous polyposis and hereditary non‐polyposis coli are the commonest. There is however a number of lesser known syndromes described, which is the focus of this article.
Oral administration of arsenic trioxide in the treatment of acute promyelocytic leukaemia and accelerated phase chronic myeloid leukaemia: an Australian single‐centre study
Authors: Firkin F.
Published: August 2012

Experience in the treatment of patients with acute promyelocytic leukaemia (APL) and accelerated phase chronic myeloid leukaemia with orally administered arsenic trioxide (ATO) in our institution since 1999 has demonstrated that bioavailability of oral ATO is comparable with intravenous administration, and similar outcomes are produced in treatment of APL. Oral administration was well tolerated, with good compliance, in patients not requiring hospitalisation for postinduction treatment and was particularly convenient for patients living considerable distances from our institution. Orally administered ATO can be considered a practicable option in management of APL.
Why Do Localities Provide Economic Development Incentives? Geographic Competition, Political Constituencies, and Government Capacity
Authors: Betz Michael R. , Partridge Mark D. , Kraybill David S. , Lobao Linda
Published: August 2012

U.S. states and localities often engage in economic development policies using incentives and abatements for specific firms or industries. Yet, there is very little empirical evidence suggesting that such policies are successful. Why, then, do governments engage in these policies? In order to answer this question, we employ a model that considers not only geographic and economic factors, but also, in a novel application, local political conditions. A unique survey of U.S. county governments forms the basis for our empirical assessment of both traditional economic development policies and new‐wave policies. Using probit, Poisson, negative binomial, and spatial econometric models, we find evidence that the use of incentives is inversely related to local economic conditions. Furthermore, we find Republican counties are more apt to use incentives, though counties dominated by one political party are less likely to use them.
Increased Lead Levels in Pregnancy Among Immigrant Women
Authors: Alba Amanda , Carleton Lindsay , Dinkel Laura , Ruppe Rebekah
Published: August 2012

Antepartum lead screening typically involves identification of current environmental or occupational risk and pica habits. However, for foreign‐born women who have immigrated to the United States, distant exposure years prior may be a more significant factor contributing to elevated lead levels. Because lead can be stored in bone for decades and mobilized to the blood when calcium needs increase in pregnancy, women and their children can be at risk for lead‐related complications like anemia, gestational hypertension, preterm labor, low birth weight, and developmental delays without any identifiable current exposure. Midwives and other women's health clinicians must carefully evaluate the history of every woman under their care, individualizing screening and treatment to identify risk and provide timely intervention.
The influence of stiffness of implant‐abutment connection on load‐deflection ratios of a screw‐retained stiff cantilever beam. 3‐D measurements in vitro
Authors: Cassel Björn , Lundgren Dan , Karlsson Dan
Published: August 2012

Aim

The purpose of this in vitro study was to investigate the influence of degree of stiffness of implant‐abutment connection of a Brånemark implant system on load‐ deflection ratios in three dimensions of the beam‐end of a screw‐retained stiff cantilever beam when subjected to vertically directed loads.

Material and methods

Two different implant‐abutment connections were tested; welded and screw‐retained. One of the abutments (EsthetiCone 2.0; Nobel Biocare AB) was screwed with a torque force of 20 N cm and then laser welded around its entire periphery to one of two Brånemark implants (welded unit). This unit and the other implant were tightly screwed into each of two pre‐threaded holes in a steel plate so that the implants became submerged in the plate. The remaining abutment was thereafter screwed to its implant with a torque force of 20 N cm (screw‐retained unit). A cantilevered gold beam of 6 mm height and width comprising a gold cylinder (Nobel Biocare AB) was attached to each abutment with a slotted, flat headed, prosthetic gold screw (torque force 10 N cm). A force transducer, synchronized with a 3‐D motion analysis system, was glued on the upper surface of each beam‐end 19.4 mm from the implant, to register the loads transferred from a specially built loading device. The beam‐ends were stepwise subjected to vertically directed loads from 14.9 to 40.3 N and the vertical and horizontal deflections of the beam‐ends were registered with the 3‐D motion analysis system.

Results

For load 14.9–40.3 N the vertical (z‐axis) deflections of the beam‐end were for the welded implant‐abutment connection reduced with 18–46% compared with the screw‐retained unit. After maximal loading (40.3 N) the horizontal counter‐clockwise rotation of the beam around the screw joints (y‐axis rotations) was reduced with 61% for the welded connection. The horizontal movements of the beam‐end along the x‐axis (x‐axis deflections) were reduced with 49% at maximal loading.

Conclusion

It was concluded that increased implant‐abutment stiffness will substantially reduce both vertical and horizontal deflections of a screw‐retained stiff cantilever beam subjected to vertically directed loads.
Stability of implants placed simultaneously or in a delayed manner on fresh frozen onlay allografts in rabbits
Authors: Fraguas Erica , Ribeiro Marna , Croci Alberto , Santos Luiz , Pallos Débora , Sendyk Wilson
Published: August 2012

Objectives

This study evaluated the stability of implants installed simultaneously and in a delayed manner in fresh frozen onlay allografts in the tibiae of rabbits.

Material and methods

Analyses of the resonance frequency (ISQ) and removal torque were performed. The calvarium of three rabbits was used as donor site. Ten New Zealand female rabbits received four allografts of the same dimensions, two in each tibia. The tibiae were randomly allocated into the following two groups: Group 1, the tibiae that received implants after 84 days of healing, and Group 2, those who received the implants simultaneously with the grafts. Both groups were followed for 126 days. Proximal implants in each group were evaluated by resonance frequency (ISQ) on days 0 and 126, and the distal ones with removal torque on day 126.

Results

In both groups, an increase in the ISQ value of day 0–126 was observed, with a statistically significant difference (Group 1 P = 0.049 and Group 2 P = 0.021). When comparing the resonance frequency at day 0 to day 126, and the gain of stability between these days, no statistically significant difference between groups could be observed. The removal torque showed a statistically significant difference between groups 1 and 2 (P = 0.042).

Conclusion

There was an increase in stability in groups according to the analysis of resonance frequency. Implants installed in a delayed manner in allografts showed higher shear force, according to the removal torque analysis.
Co‐variation between plant above‐ground biomass and phenology in sub‐alpine grasslands
Authors: Duparc Antoine , Redjadj Claire , Viard‐Crétat Flore , Lavorel Sandra , Austrheim Gunnar , Loison Anne
Published: August 2012

Question

Resources quality and quantity are both important determinants of habitat use for large herbivores. We aim to understand how these two variables vary throughout the growing season in sub‐alpine grasslands. How do productivity and phenology (quality) of different plant communities within a landscape vary over time? Do productivity and phenology co‐vary? Which environmental constraints or growth form composition best explain differences in productivity and phenology among plant communities?

Location

Calcareous sub‐alpine grasslands, the external Alps, France.

Methods

We assessed how productivity (above‐ground biomass) and phenology varied with date, slope, radiation and altitude among seven plant communities. Then we explored (1) co‐variation among maximum biomass, the date of maximum biomass and average community flowering date for each plant community, and (2) whether these variables were related to snow regime or growth form composition.

Results

Temporal dynamics of biomass and phenology varied markedly among plant communities. More productive communities reached their maximum biomass later. Flowering occurred after the biomass peak, except for one plant community. However, the later the biomass peak, the shorter the lag to flowering peak. The timing of flowering and date of maximum biomass were best explained by differences in snow regimes among communities. The impact of growth form composition was marginal.

Conclusions

Plant communities are under strong time constraints to grow and flower. Snowmelt regime plays a crucial role at one end of the growing season, while time left for fruiting and maturing is likely to influence the other end. Sub‐alpine grassland communities are highly heterogeneous in productivity, timing of maximum productivity and flowering phenology, creating small‐scale variability in the forage quality and quantity available to large herbivores.