bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Encoding and Processing of Alphanumeric Information by Chemical Mixtures
Authors: Ratner Tamar , Reany Ofer , Keinan Ehud
Published: November 2009

A novel infochemical device that is based on 1H NMR readout of chemical information is presented. This chemical encoding system utilizes two measurable parameters of homogeneous mixtures, chemical shift and peak integration, for three different applications: 1) a text‐encoding device that is based on spectral representation of a sequence of symbols, 2) encoding of 21‐digit binary numbers, each represented by an NMR spectrum, and their algebraic manipulations, such as addition and subtraction, and 3) encoding of 21‐digit decimal numbers. The first application enables molecular information storage and encryption. The relative concentration of each component, as measured by the relevant peak integration, can represent a symbol. The second application of this system, in addition to its obvious memory capability, enables mathematical operations. The NMR spectrum of a given mixture represents a 21‐digit binary number where each of the peaks encodes for a specific digit. In any of the input mixtures (numbers) each compound is either present or absent, representing either 1 or 0, respectively. We used the various binary numbers to carry out addition operations by combining two or more solutions (numbers). Subtraction operations were also preformed by digital processing of the information. The third application is the representation of decimal numbers. As before, each of the peaks encodes for a specific digit. In any of the input mixtures each compound is present in one of 10 different relative concentrations, representing the 10 digits of a decimal number.
Electronic Structure and Interface Properties of a Model Molecule for Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Hintz Holger , Peisert Heiko , Aygül Umut , Latteyer Florian , Biswas Indro , Nagel Peter , Merz Michael , Schuppler Stefan , Breusov Dietrich , Allard Sybille , Scherf Ullrich , Chassé Thomas
Published: November 2009

We study the electronic structure of 4,7‐bis(5‐methylthiophen‐2‐yl)benzo[c][1,2,5]thiadiazole (MTBT) and its interface properties with gold using X‐ray photoemission spectroscopy (XPS), valence‐band ultraviolet photoemission spectroscopy (UPS), X‐ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), as well as resonant photoemission (ResPES). MTBT can be regarded as a model molecule for PCPDTBT, a promising candidate for efficient bulk heterojunction solar cells. Almost no contribution of sulfur and only a weak contribution of nitrogen to the HOMO level is found. At the interface with gold, a strong chemical interaction between the sulfur of the benzothiadiazole and gold occurs, which may have consequences for interface properties in devices.
Comprehensive Analysis of DNA Strand Breaks at the Guanosine Site Induced by Low‐Energy Electron Attachment
Authors: Gu Jiande , Wang Jing , Leszczynski Jerzy
Published: November 2009

To elucidate the role of guanosine in DNA strand breaks caused by low‐energy electrons (LEEs), theoretical investigations of the LEE attachment‐induced CO σ‐bonds and N‐glycosidic bond breaking of 2′‐deoxyguanosine‐3′,5′‐diphosphate (3′,5′‐dGMP) were performed using the B3LYP/DZP++ approach. The results reveal possible reaction pathways in the gas phase and in aqueous solutions. In the gas phase LEEs could attach to the phosphate group adjacent to the guanosine to form a radical anion. However, the small vertical detachment energy (VDE) of the radical anion of guanosine 3′,5′‐diphosphate in the gas phase excludes either CO bond cleavage or N‐glycosidic bond breaking. In the presence of the polarizable surroundings, the solvent effects dramatically increase the electron affinities of the 3′,5′‐dGDP and the VDE of 3′,5′‐dGDP−. Furthermore, the solvent–solute interactions greatly reduce the activation barriers of the CO bond cleavage to 1.06–3.56 kcal mol−1. These low‐energy barriers ensure that either C5′O5′ or C3′O3′ bond rupture takes place at the guanosine site in DNA single strands. On the other hand, the comparatively high energy barrier of the N‐glycosidic bond rupture implies that this reaction pathway is inferior to CO bond cleavage. Qualitative agreement was found between the theoretical sequence of the bond breaking reaction pathways in the PCM model and the ratio for the corresponding bond breaks observed in the experiment of LEE‐induced damage in oligonucleotide tetramer CGTA. This concord suggests that the influence of the surroundings in the thin solid film on the LEE‐induced DNA damage resembles that of the solvent.
Syntheses of the First Coordination Compounds of the New Strong Molecular Electron Donor and Double Proton Sponge 1,4,5,8‐Tetrakis(tetramethylguanidino)naphthalene
Authors: Vitske Viktoriia , König Carolin , Hübner Olaf , Kaifer Elisabeth , Himmel Hans‐Jörg
Published: November 2009

Herein we report on the synthesis and properties of a new electron donor featuring an aromatic system to which four guanidino groups are attached, namely, 1,4,5,8‐tetrakis(tetramethylguanidino)naphthalene (ttmgn). The molecule is a double proton sponge with an asymmetric N–H···N bridge being formed in the protonated form. Oxidation is followed electrochemically, and two oxidation waves at E1/2(CH3CN) = –0.25 and +0.50 V vs. SCE are observed. Chemical oxidation with I2 yields ttmgn(I3)2, in which the I3– units interact with the ttmgn2+ cations through I···C contacts. Reaction with an excess amount of Br2 leads to removal of four electrons from the aromatic system and formation of the salt (ttmgn)Br4 with a chair‐type conformation of the C10 core. The binuclear Al alkyl complex [(ttmgn)(AlMe2)2][BPh4]2 can be prepared by reaction between the diprotonated ttmgn molecule and AlMe3 and serves as a benchmark system for the understanding of dynamic effects. Magnetic superexchange through the ligand unit is studied for the binuclear CoII complex [(ttmgn)(CoCl2)2]. SQUID measurements show an extremely weak antiferromagnetic coupling. The coupling might be affected by the unusual geometry of the coordination compounds of ttmgn, in which the metal ions are significantly displaced from the plane defined by the aromatic ring of the ttmgn ligand. We also report the analogous Co complex of ttmgb [ttmgb = 1,2,4,5‐tetrakis(tetramethylguanidino)benzene], namely, [(ttmgb)(CoCl2)2], in which the bonding situation is quite different.
Exfoliated Titanosilicate Material UZAR‐S1 Obtained from JDF‐L1
Authors: Rubio César , Casado Clara , Gorgojo Patricia , Etayo Fernando , Uriel Santiago , Téllez Carlos , Coronas Joaquín
Published: November 2009

A new material, UZAR‐S1, has been obtained by exfoliation of the layered precursor microporous titanosilicate JDF‐L1. The exfoliation consists of a first stage of proton exchange with histidine followed by intercalation with nonylamine and final extraction in HCl/water/ethanol solution. UZAR‐S1 is an exfoliated material composed of sheets of a few nanometers of thickness with a high aspect ratio, a BET specific surface area of 160 m2/g (JDF‐L1 scarcely adsorbs N2), and a Si/Ti atomic ratio below 6. The dispersion of this material in commercial polysulfone results in an improved H2‐selective mixed matrix membrane.
One‐Pot Synthesis of Fluorinated 1‐Benzoyl‐3,4‐dihydroisoquinolines from [2‐(o‐Alkynylphenyl)ethyl]amines by a Hydroamination/Oxidation Sequence
Authors: Severin René , Reimer Jessica , Doye Sven
Published: November 2009

Fluorinated 1‐benzoyl‐3,4‐dihydroisoquinolines can easily be synthesized by a new one‐pot procedure from corresponding fluorinated [2‐(o‐alkynylphenyl)ethyl]amines in high yields. The one‐pot process consists of an initial [Ind2TiMe2]‐catalyzed intramolecular alkyne hydroamination and a subsequent Pd‐catalyzed oxidation of the benzyl side chain of the resulting hydroamination product. The process tolerates electron‐donating and ‐withdrawing substituents on the benzene ring that is converted into the benzoyl side chain of the products as well as ortho‐substitution.
Human epididymis protein 4 is a biomarker for transitional cell carcinoma in the urinary system
Authors: Xi Zhu , LinLin Ma , Ye Tian
Published: November 2009

Objective: To investigate human epididymis protein 4 (HE4) levels in transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) of the urinary system and its relationship with clinicopathological features.

Methods: 102 patients with TCC, 60 with benign urinary diseases, and 60 healthy controls were included in this study. The HE4 levels were used to analyze different clinicopathologic characteristics and changes between pre‐ and postsurgical operation.

Results: The HE4 level was significantly increased in patients with TCC compared to patients with benign urinary diseases patients (P<0.01) and healthy controls (P<0.01), and the level of HE4 in patients with superficial TCC (Tis Ta T1) was significantly higher than that of the benign urogenital group (P<0.05)and healthy controls (P<0.05). There was a significant difference between HE4 levels in patients before and after operation (P<0.05). There was no difference between HE4 levels based on tumor recurrence, clinical TNM stage, lymph node metastasis, or pathological stage (P>0.05). The HE4 level was also different between patients with a single tumor versus patients with multiple tumors. The area under the curves of HE4 is 0.821. The sensitivity and specificity of HE4 at a cutoff value of 45.7 pM were 67.6 and 88.3%, respectively.

Conclusions: HE4 may be a screening tool for early diagnosis of TCC in the urinary system, and may become a prognostic marker for TCC in the urinary system. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 23:357–361, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
IgM, IgG, and IgA anti‐DNA topoisomerase I antibodies in systemic sclerosis
Authors: Martínez‐Cordero Erasmo , Trejo Alejandro Padilla , Aguilar León Diana E.
Published: November 2009

Background: Anti‐DNA topoisomerase I (anti‐topo I) antibodies have been broadly studied in systemic sclerosis (SSc). The use of different native and molecularly cloned antigens has shown a predominant IgG response, and a variable frequency of positive IgM and IgA tests. We report herein the serological findings of SSc using a recombinant topo I obtained through a standard bacterial system.

Methods: Anti‐topo I antibodies were studied in 45 SSc patients and 85 healthy controls through ELISA and western blot. Escherichia coli XL1‐blue strain and pT7‐7 vector were used to amplify a DNA topo I cDNA clone, and to obtain the recombinant polypeptide. The latter was purified by affinity chromatography, and the enzymatic and antigenic properties were evaluated through specific tests. A native antigen was included for comparison.

Results: The SSc group disclosed positive IgM (20%), IgG (86.6%), and IgA (26.6%) anti‐topo I tests with the recombinant polypeptide, and a purified calf thymus antigen yielded similar results. IgG autoantibodies were frequently associated with skin involvement, esophageal dysfunction, and restrictive lung disease. The recombinant protein showed a molecular weight of 86.6 kDa, a positive topo I activity using a supercoiled pBR322 DNA relaxation test, and its carboxyl terminus region was recognized by specific antibodies.

Conclusion: This report confirms that different immunoglobulin classes with anti‐topo I activity may occur in SSc. IgG was the predominant serological feature with both, the recombinant and native antigens. The study also demonstrates the association between high levels of these autoantibodies and some clinical manifestations of SSc. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 23:408–416, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A novel genetic variant of BMP2K contributes to high myopia
Authors: Liu Hsin‐Ping , Lin Ying‐Ju , Lin Wei‐Yong , Wan Lei , Sheu Jim Jinn‐Chyuan , Lin Hui‐Ju , Tsai Yuhsin , Tsai Chang‐Hai , Tsai Fuu‐Jen
Published: November 2009

Loss of eye growth regulation may cause myopia, because modulation of optic globe size is essential for the generation of normal optic power. Evidence has implied variations of BMP2 gene expression mediate ocular development and retinal tissue remodeling. Given BMP2 as a potential regulator involved in myopia development, we investigate whether gene BMP2‐inducible kinase (BMP2K, BIKe), whose expression is up‐regulated during BMP2‐induced osteoblast differentiation, contributes to susceptibility of high myopia. Participants grouped into high myopia had a spherical equivalent greater than −6.00 D, compared with a control group of spherical equivalent less than −0.5 D. Genotyping of polymorphisms 1379 G/A (rs2288255) and 3171 C/G (rs12507099), corresponding with 405 Gly/Ser and 1002 Thr/Ser variation in the BMP2K gene were determined by PCR‐restriction fragment length polymorphism and associative study performed by comparing high myopic subjects and healthy controls. The frequency of A allele in the BMP2K gene 1379 G/A polymorphism showed a significant difference between cases and controls (P<0.001, OR=2.99, 95% CI=1.62–5.54) and subjects with either AA or AG genotype show higher risk than GG genotype (P<0.001, OR=3.07, 95% CI=1.59–5.92), while 3171 C/G polymorphism was not significant from this survey. These data suggest that BMP2K gene 1379 G/A variant is strongly correlated with high myopia and may contribute to a genetic risk factor for high degrees of myopic pathogenesis. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 23:362–367, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Rapid liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometer (LCMS) method for clozapine and its metabolite N‐desmethyl Clozapine (Norclozapine) in human serum
Authors: Rao L.V. , Snyder M.L. , Vallaro G.M.
Published: November 2009

Clozapine is indicated for the treatment of schizophrenia and related psychotic disorders. Several methods have been developed for monitoring Clozapine levels; however, they possess limited specificity and are often laborious. This study describes a simple liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometer (LCMS) method in human serum. The ion transitions monitored were m/z 327, 270, 296 for Clozapine, m/z 313, 192, 227 for Norclozapine and m/z 328, 271 for Loxapine. The assay is linear (25–1000 ng/ml) and showed a good correlation (r=0.98) within the analytical range of 79–1210 ng/ml in human serum. This assay is highly specific and sensitive for the simultaneous measurements of Clozapine and Norclozapine. The simplification of this assay makes it ideal for high throughput analyses of the patient samples in a routine clinical laboratory staffed with general medical technologists. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 23:394–398, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
CXCL12 rs1801157 polymorphism in patients with breast cancer, hodgkin's lymphoma, and non‐hodgkin's lymphoma
Authors: de Oliveira Karen Brajão , Oda Julie Massayo Maeda , Voltarelli Julio Cesar , Nasser Thiago Franco , Ono Mario Augusto , Fujita Thiago Cezar , Matsuo Tiemi , Watanabe Maria Angelica Ehara
Published: November 2009

Chemokines and their receptors regulate the trafficking of immune cells during their development, inflammation, and tissue repair. The single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs1801157 (previously known as CXCL12‐A/ stromal cell‐derived factor‐1 (SDF1)‐3′A) in CXCL12/SDF1 gene was assessed in breast cancer, Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL), and non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL), since the chemokine CXCL12, previously known as SDF1, and its receptor CXCR4 regulate leukocyte trafficking and many essential biological processes, including tumor growth, angiogenesis, and metastasis of different types of tumors. Genotyping was performed by PCR‐RFLP (polymerase chain reaction followed by restriction fragment length polymorphism) using a restriction enzyme HpaII cleavage. No significant difference was observed in genotype distribution between breast cancer patients (GG: 57.3%; GA: 39.8%; AA: 2.9%) and healthy female controls (GG: 62.9%; GA: 33%; AA: 4.1%) nor between HL patients (GG: 61.1%; GA:27.8%; AA: 11.1%) and healthy controls (GG: 65.6%; GA: 28.9%; AA: 5.5%), whereas a significant difference was observed in genotype distribution between NHL patients (GG: 51.4%; GA: 47.1%; AA: 1.5%) and healthy controls (GG: 65.6%; GA: 28.9%; AA: 5.5%). Further studies will be necessary to elucidate the cancer chemokine network. However, this study suggests that CXCL12 rs1801157 polymorphism may have important implications in the pathogenesis of NHL. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 23:387–393, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Who asks and who receives in salary negotiation
Authors: Marks Michelle , Harold Crystal
Published: November 2009

The influence of individual differences and negotiation strategies on starting salary outcomes was investigated. A sample of 149 newly hired employees in various industry settings participated in this study. Results indicated that those who chose to negotiate increased their starting salaries by an average of $5000. Individuals who negotiated by using competing and collaborating strategies, characterized by an open discussion of one's positions, issues, and perspectives, further increased their salaries as compared to those who used compromising and accommodating strategies. Individual differences, including risk‐aversion and integrative attitudes, played a significant role in predicting whether or not individuals negotiated, and if so, what strategies they used. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of Amazon and Central Brazil deforestation scenarios on the duration of the dry season in the arc of deforestation
Authors: Costa Marcos Heil , Pires Gabrielle Ferreira
Published: November 2009

Climate change predictions tied to Amazon deforestation scenarios are increasingly being used by government and non‐government organisations for near‐future planning applications. Despite incorporating a wide range of biophysical variables, these models neglect future scenarios of land use for adjoining regions, such as the Central Brazil Cerrado, which has been deforested by more than 50%. In this study, we investigate the impact of different Amazon and Central Brazil deforestation scenarios on the rainfall regime of the ‘arc‐of‐deforestation’ in Amazonia. We demonstrate that both Amazon and Cerrado deforestation contribute to an increase of the duration of the dry season in this region. Combining the effects of both scenarios, the dry season may increase from 5 months to 6 months, which may change the biosphere–atmosphere equilibrium in this region. This study demonstrates that the assessment of future Cerrado land use scenarios is also necessary to understand the future climate and ecosystem health of Amazonia. Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society
Rainfall variability and the trends of wet and dry periods in Bangladesh
Authors: Shahid Shamsuddin
Published: November 2009

Spatial patterns of annual and seasonal rainfall trends of Bangladesh over the time period 1958–2007 has been assessed using rainfall data recorded at 17 stations distributed over the country. Mann–Kendall trend test and the Sen's slope method are used to detect the significance and the magnitude of rainfall change, respectively. Historical dry and wet months are identified by using standardised precipitation index method and their trends are analysed to assess the possible change in wet and dry events in Bangladesh. The result shows a significant increase in the average annual and pre‐monsoon rainfall of Bangladesh. The number of wet months is found to increase and the dry months to decrease in most parts of the country. Seasonal analysis of wet and dry months shows a significant decrease of dry months in monsoon and pre‐monsoon. Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society
The effect of traumatic bereavement on tsunami‐exposed survivors
Authors: Johannesson Kerstin Bergh , Lundin Tom , Hultman Christina M. , Lindam Anna , Dyster‐Aas Johan , Arnberg Filip , Michel Per‐Olof
Published: November 2009

Fourteen months after the 2004 tsunami, mental health outcome was assessed in 187 bereaved relatives, 308 bereaved friends, and in 3,020 nonbereaved Swedish survivors. Of the bereaved relatives, 41% reported posttraumatic stress reactions and 62% reported impaired general mental health. Having been caught or chased by the tsunami in combination with bereavement was associated with increased posttraumatic stress reactions. Complicated grief reactions among relatives were almost as frequent as posttraumatic stress reactions. The highest levels of psychological distress were found among those who had lost children. Traumatic bereavement, in combination with exposure to life danger, is probably a risk factor for mental health sequelae after a natural disaster.
Simultaneous Deconvolution of the Molecular Weight and Chemical Composition Distribution of Polyolefins Made with Ziegler‐Natta Catalysts
Authors: Alghyamah Abdulaziz A. , Soares João B. P.
Published: November 2009

Heterogeneous Ziegler‐Natta catalysts produce polyolefins that have broad distributions of molecular weight (MWD) and chemical composition (CCD). For such broad distributions, mathematical models are useful to quantify the information provided by polyolefin analytical techniques such as high‐temperature gel permeation chromatography (GPC), temperature rising elution fractionation (TREF), and crystallization analysis fractionation (CRYSTAF). In this paper, we developed a mathematical model to deconvolute the MWD and CCD of polyolefins simultaneously, using Flory's most probable distribution and the cumulative CCD component of Stockmayer's distribution. We have applied this procedure to “model” polyolefin resins and to one industrial linear low‐density polyethylene (LLDPE) resin. The proposed methodology is able to deconvolute theoretical distributions even when random noise is added to the MWDs and CCDs, and it can be used to calculate the minimum number of active site types on heterogeneous Ziegler‐Natta catalysts.
Huts and deposition of refuse at Fräkenrönningen, a Neolithic coastal dwelling site in Eastern Middle Sweden
Authors: Olson C. , Björck N. , Storå J.
Published: November 2009

The present detailed taphonomic study deals with faunal remains from the Middle Neolithic site of Fräkenrönningen, located in Eastern Middle Sweden. Archaeological excavations in 1993 revealed the remnants of eight hut‐structures and several different features spread over approximately 1500 m2. Large amounts of pottery and stone artefacts were recovered together with approximately 14.6 kg of burnt faunal remains. Our specific aim was to examine the depositional patterns of burnt bones at the site; the diversity between the huts and the sub‐areas between the huts. Spatial patterns of seal and fish bones as well as that of the anatomical representation of seals were investigated.

The refuse disposal patterns were spatially organised, and some site areas exhibited large refuse agglomerations of burnt bones. Most faunal remains were recovered immediately outside of the huts. The size of the huts did not correspond with absolute amounts of refuse. Both large and small huts showed a variation in amount of bones. The bones of harp seal (Phoca groenlandica) and ringed seal (Phoca hispida) were deposited in all areas of the site, showing a rather similar anatomical representation in all areas. The size of the huts was associated with the composition of the faunal remains. The huts in the western area were smaller in size than those in the eastern area, and they exhibited a higher frequency of fish bones. Interestingly, the fish bones showed the most marked variability between the different areas of the site. The largest amounts of fish bones were deposited in a restricted area of the north‐western part of the site, in association with three of the huts. The present study highlights the importance of detailed taphonomic studies of fishbone. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
β‐strand interactions at the domain interface critical for the stability of human lens γD‐crystallin
Authors: Das Payel , King Jonathan A. , Zhou Ruhong
Published: November 2009

Human age‐onset cataracts are believed to be caused by the aggregation of partially unfolded or covalently damaged lens crystallin proteins; however, the exact molecular mechanism remains largely unknown. We have used microseconds of molecular dynamics simulations with explicit solvent to investigate the unfolding process of human lens γD‐crystallin protein and its isolated domains. A partially unfolded folding intermediate of γD‐crystallin is detected in simulations with its C‐terminal domain (C‐td) folded and N‐terminal domain (N‐td) unstructured, in excellent agreement with biochemical experiments. Our simulations strongly indicate that the stability and the folding mechanism of the N‐td are regulated by the interdomain interactions, consistent with experimental observations. A hydrophobic folding core was identified within the C‐td that is comprised of a and b strands from the Greek key motif 4, the one near the domain interface. Detailed analyses reveal a surprising non‐native surface salt‐bridge between Glu135 and Arg142 located at the end of the ab folded hairpin turn playing a critical role in stabilizing the folding core. On the other hand, an in silico single E135A substitution that disrupts this non‐native Glu135‐Arg142 salt‐bridge causes significant destabilization to the folding core of the isolated C‐td, which, in turn, induces unfolding of the N‐td interface. These findings indicate that certain highly conserved charged residues, that is, Glu135 and Arg142, of γD‐crystallin are crucial for stabilizing its hydrophobic domain interface in native conformation, and disruption of charges on the γD‐crystallin surface might lead to unfolding and subsequent aggregation.
Spatial and vertical heterogeneities in aerosol properties over oceanic regions around India: Implications for radiative forcing
Authors: Moorthy K. Krishna , Nair Vijayakumar S. , Babu S. Suresh , Satheesh S. K.
Published: November 2009

The influence of atmospheric aerosols on Earth's radiation budget and hence climate, though well recognized and extensively investigated in recent years, remains largely uncertain mainly because of the large spatio‐temporal heterogeneity and the lack of data with adequate resolution. To characterize this diversity, a major multi‐platform field campaign ICARB (Integrated Campaign for Aerosols, gases and Radiation Budget) was carried out during the pre‐monsoon period of 2006 over the Indian landmass and surrounding oceans, which was the biggest such campaign ever conducted over this region. Based on the extensive and concurrent measurements of the optical and physical properties of atmospheric aerosols during ICARB, the spatial distribution of aerosol radiative forcing was estimated over the entire Bay of Bengal (BoB), northern Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea (AS) as well as large spatial variations within these regions. Besides being considerably lower than the mean values reported earlier for this region, our studies have revealed large differences in the forcing components between the BoB and the AS. While the regionally averaged aerosol‐induced atmospheric forcing efficiency was 31 ± 6 W m−2 τ−1 for the BoB, it was only ∼18 ± 7 W m−2 τ−1 for the AS. Airborne measurements revealed the presence of strong, elevated aerosol layers even over the oceans, leading to vertical structures in the atmospheric forcing, resulting in significant warming in the lower troposphere. These observations suggest serious climate implications and raise issues ranging from the impact of aerosols on vertical thermal structure of the atmospheric and hence cloud formation processes to monsoon circulation. Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society
Heparin‐based nanoparticles
Authors: Kemp Melissa M. , Linhardt Robert J.
Published: November 2009

The combination of nanoparticles and biological molecules is of intense interest because of the synergistic properties offered by such newly synthesized composites. Heparin (HP), conjugated to nanomaterials, has recently been investigated for its chemical and biological properties. HP has a number of biological activities that can be enhanced when composited with nanoparticles. In addition, HP improves the biocompatibility of nanoparticles improving their performance in various biological applications. A variety of recent research combines HP and nanomaterials for a myriad of applications. HP has been conjugated to the surface of the nanoparticles, such as magnetic and metallic nanoparticles, or biodegradable and nondegradable synthetic polymers. HP has also been incorporated into the nanoparticles. There are numerous possibilities for material composites and chemistries that incorporate HP. This opens the door for novel applications ranging from improving anticoagulant activity, for anticancer and antitumor therapy, to tissue engineering and biosensors. This review examines the different possibilities of HP‐based nanoparticle composites and their medicinal or biological applications. WIREs Nanomed Nanobiotechnol 2010 2 77–87

This article is categorized under:

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Cardiovascular Disease
Europe united? The impact of the EU's eastern enlargement, five years on
Authors: Pollack Mark A.
Published: November 2009

The ‘eastern enlargement’ of the European Union in 2004 and 2007 marked the unification of Western and Eastern Europe, yet many scholars feared negative consequences of enlargement—both for the institutions of the EU, which were expected to encounter gridlock in a Union of 27, and possibly for the new members themselves as the end of ‘conditionality’ might lead to backsliding on political or economic reforms. Despite these concerns, a growing body of EU scholarship has begun to explore both questions, and the results give substantial grounds for optimism. EU institutions have proven remarkably adaptable in the face of enlargement, while the new member states show little or no signs of backsliding, remaining committed to democracy, the rule of law and free markets.
“Brother from another mother”: Mentoring for African‐Caribbean adolescent boys
Authors: Garraway Hilary , Pistrang Nancy
Published: November 2009

African‐Caribbean adolescent boys in the UK have a risk of developing mental health difficulties but are a challenging group to engage in mental health services. One avenue for promoting the psychological well‐being of these adolescents is through mentoring programmes. This qualitative study explored the role of mentoring with African‐Caribbean adolescent boys who had psychological and behavioural difficulties. Thirteen mentees and five mentors participated in a combination of focus groups and interviews; Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis was used to analyse their accounts and generated nine themes. The accounts highlighted the uniqueness of the mentoring relationship. Strong, emotional bonds were formed between boys and mentors, facilitated by the perception of shared life experiences; boys were able to show their vulnerabilities and accept support. The findings suggest that mentoring can assist at‐risk African‐Caribbean youth in coping with challenges in their lives and may help to promote positive developmental trajectories for these vulnerable adolescents.
Imaging of Ovarian Teratomas in Children: A 9-Year Review
Authors: Alotaibi Mohammed O.S. , Navarro Oscar M.
Published: November 2009

Objective

Germ cell tumours are the most common ovarian neoplasms in childhood and, of these, teratomas, whether mature or immature, are the most frequently found. Mature teratoma is a benign tumour, whereas the immature type, although also benign, has a more aggressive course, with a propensity to recurrence. A review of the literature revealed that there are some imaging features that may help to differentiate between these 2 types of teratoma, although no systematic comparison has been made. The objective of this study was to review imaging features of ovarian teratomas in children and to assess differentiating imaging features between the mature and immature types of ovarian teratoma.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of all patients who presented to our institution during a 9-year period (September 1999 to August 2008) with ovarian teratoma as confirmed on histology.

Results

Forty-one patients with pathologically proven ovarian teratoma were found. The patient ages ranged from 4–18 years at presentation (mean [standard deviation] age, 12.4 ± 3.4 years; median age, 13 years). Thirty patients (73.2%) were found to have mature ovarian teratoma, and 11 (26.8%) had immature teratoma. A component of endodermal sinus tumour was found in one of the immature teratomas. On ultrasonography, the appearance of the immature teratomas was purely solid in 3 (27.3%), mixed solid and cystic in 6 (54.5%), and predominantly cystic in 2 (18%). The mature ovarian teratomas demonstrated a predominantly cystic appearance in 22 (73.3%) and a mixed solid and cystic appearance in 8 (26.6%); there were no cases with a pure solid appearance. The prevalence of the more cystic appearance of the mature type showed significant statistical difference when compared with its prevalence in the immature type ( P = .0008, χ2 test). Other imaging features, such as size, presence of fat, or calcifications, did not show a significant difference between the 2 types of teratoma.

Conclusions

The predominance of a cystic component and a pure solid component in ovarian teratoma are significant differentiating factors between the mature type and the more aggressive immature type of teratoma.
Rab35 – A vesicular traffic‐regulating small GTPase with actin modulating roles
Authors: Chua Christelle En Lin , Lim Yi Shan , Tang Bor Luen
Published: November 2009

The Rab family of GTPases are regulators of eukaryotic vesicular membrane traffic, while modulation of actin dynamics is a function conventionally associated with the Rho family of GTPases. Rab35 is a Rab protein with both plasma membrane and endosomal localization, and has been implicated in diverse processes that include T‐cell receptor recycling, oocyte yolk protein recycling and cytokinesis. Rab35 regulates neurite outgrowth in neuronal‐like cells, and can induce protrusions even in typically non‐adherent Jurkat T‐cells. Recent evidence indicates that Rab35's activity, particularly the ability to mediate protrusive outgrowths, is due to its direct influence on actin dynamics. This can occur via activation of the Rho family of GTPases, or through the engagement of its effector fascin, an actin bundling protein.
Downregulation of cardiac lineage protein‐1 confers cardioprotection through the upregulation of redox effectors
Authors: Gurusamy Narasimman , Lekli Istvan , Ahsan Md. Kaimul , Ray Diptarka , Mukherjee Subhendu , Mascareno Eduardo , Siddiqui M.A.Q. , Das Dipak K.
Published: November 2009

CLP‐1, the mouse homologue of human Hexim1 protein, exerts inhibitory control on transcriptional elongation factor‐b of RNA transcript elongation. Previously, we have demonstrated that downregulation of cardiac lineage protein‐1 (CLP‐1) in CLP‐1+/− heterozygous mice affords cardioprotection against ischemia–reperfusion injury. Our current study results show that the improvement in cardiac function in CLP‐1+/− mice after ischemia–reperfusion injury is achieved through the potentiation of redox signaling and their molecular targets including redox effector factor‐1, nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor, and NADPH oxidase 4 and the active usage of thioredoxin‐1, thioredoxin‐2, glutaredoxin‐1 and glutaredoxin‐2. Our results suggest that drugs designed to down regulate CLP‐1 could confer cardioprotection through the potentiation of redox cycling.
Spatial and non-spatial analyses of insect counts in bulk-stored barley
Authors: Athanassiou C.G. , Nansen C. , Vayias B.J.
Published: November 2009

Stored grain insect species in bulk-stored barley were sampled during 15 consecutive weeks in two ways: direct sampling based on grain trier samples and indirect sampling based on probe trap captures. A total number of 22 insect taxa were found; this study focused on the six most abundant species and their natural enemies. Four aspects were addressed: (i) differences in insect counts when based on either probe trap captures or grain trier samples, (ii) usefulness of grain temperature and moisture content as explanatory variables for insect densities, (iii) density-dependent relationships between natural enemies and their hosts, and (iv) spatial and non-spatial analyses of insect counts. Both total captures and frequencies of insect taxa were consistently higher in captures with probe traps than insect numbers obtained from grain samples. Regression analysis with abiotic conditions and probe trap captures as explanatory variables provided good fits to insect counts in grain samples for four of the six insect species (R2-values>0.40). Using multi-regression analyses, we showed that: (i) the occurrence of natural enemies was only weakly associated with the abundance of hosts; (ii) grain moisture content and temperature appeared to be at least as important variables as host availability; and (iii) the predictive strengths of regression models were similar when based on either data from grain samples or probe traps. Spatial analyses (SADIE) of both sampling data suggested that all data sets followed a spatially random distribution; re-arrangement of the data provided insight into important aspects of SADIE analyses of small data sets. Non-spatial analysis (Lloyd's aggregation index) showed significant differences among species and that the level of non-spatial aggregation was quite sensitive to sampling method used.
Effects of no-tillage management on soil biochemical characteristics in northern China
Authors: LIU E. K. , ZHAO B. Q. , MEI X. R. , SO H. B. , LI J. , LI X. Y.
Published: November 2009

Field experiments (15 years) were carried out to study the effects of no-tillage (NT) and conventional tillage (CT) management practices on the soil chemical properties, microbial biomass, soil enzymatic activities and winter wheat yield on a cinnamon soil in Shanxi, on the Chinese Loess Plateau. Compared to CT, NT increased soil organic carbon, soil total nitrogen and soil total phosphorus in the 0–100 mm layer by 25, 18 and 7%, respectively. Microbial biomass C and N contents under NT were 41 and 57% greater than under CT on the same layer. In general, higher enzymatic activities were found in the more superficial layers of soil under NT than under CT in the same layer. Winter wheat yield wasc. 20% higher under NT than under CT. These findings have implications for understanding how conservation tillage practices improve soil quality and sustainability in the rainfed dryland farming areas of northern China.
Lower algebraicK-theory of certain reflection groups
Authors: LAFONT JEAN-FRANÇOIS , MAGURN BRUCE A. , ORTIZ IVONNE J.
Published: November 2009

ForP⊂3a finite volume geodesic polyhedron, with the property that all interior angles between incident faces are of the form π/mij(mij≥ 2 an integer), there is a naturally associated Coxeter group ΓP. Furthermore, this Coxeter group is a lattice inside the semi-simple Lie groupO+(3, 1) = Isom(3), with fundamental domain the original polyhedronP. In this paper, we provide a procedure for computing the lower algebraicK-theory of the integral group ring of such groups ΓPin terms of the geometry of the polyhedronP. As an ingredient in the computation, we explicitly calculate theK−1andWhof the groupsDnandDn×3, and we also summarize what is known about the0.
Producción de fibra de alpaca, llama, vicuña y guanaco en Sudamérica
Authors: Quispe E.C. , Rodríguez T.C. , Iñiguez L.R. , Mueller J.P.
Published: November 2009

Más de un millón de pequeños productores de los Andes centrales de Sudamérica tienen alpacas (Vicugna pacos) y llamas (Lama glama) como principal medio de subsistencia. Los animales proveen carne, leche, fibra, energía de transporte y guano y, además, son un elemento importante de la identidad cultural de sus pueblos. Con 3,9 millones de llamas y 3,3 millones de alpacas la producción total de fibras de camélidos en la región supera los 5 millones de kg anuales. Cerca del 30% de la producción de fibra se transforma y es usada a nivel de predio o comunidad. Alrededor del 80% de la alpaca comercializada es de color blanco y el 12% tiene diámetros de fibra menores de 23 micrones. Las fibras de llama son de menor valor y más variables en colores y diámetros que las fibras de alpaca. Ambas especies tienen dos razas, cada una con características de calidad de fibra y adaptación específica. También existen en Sudamérica dos especies de camélidos silvestres, el guanaco (Lama guanicoe) y la vicuña (Vicugna vicugna). Ambas tienen vellones de valiosa fibra down. Poblaciones específicas de estos camélidos califican para ser capturadas, esquiladas y liberadas generando un ingreso adicional a las comunidades en que viven. El aumento de la producción de fibras y demás productos de los camélidos sudamericanos, a la vez de preservar un recurso genético animal crítico y los valores culturales asociados y mejorar la calidad de vida de muchos pequeños productores, debe ser parte de una estrategia global de inversión sostenida en investigación y desarrollo apropiados.
Cashmere-producing goats in Central Asia and Afghanistan
Authors: Kerven Carol , McGregor Bruce , Toigonbaev Sabyr
Published: November 2009

Indigenous goats of Central Asia and Afghanistan produce cashmere, the warm undercoat grown annually to protect them from cold winters. Cashmere is appreciated in luxury markets, but there are no efforts to conserve these goats. Commercial assessments of their fibre quality have recently been undertaken. Poorer villagers in the most climatically difficult remote desert and high altitude regions are particularly dependent on raising goats. Villagers in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan started selling raw cashmere mainly to Chinese traders in the 1990s. Afghan producers have been selling cashmere for a longer time. In comparison with China and Mongolia, Central Asian and Afghan producers sell their cashmere unsorted and at relatively low prices. Traders do not offer producers differentiated prices according to quality, but world commercial prices are highly sensitive to quality. Producers thus lose potential value. Summaries are given of tests on the quality of cashmere from samples of 1 592 goats in 67 districts and 221 villages from 2003 to 2008. There are cashmere goats in these sampled districts which produce the finest qualities of cashmere typical of Chinese and Mongolian cashmere. There is impetus to increase the production, commercial value and income for producers from cashmere produced by Central Asian goats.
Variabilidad del color de la fibra de alpaca en la zona altoandina de Huancavelica-Perú
Authors: Oria I. , Quicaño I. , Quispe E. , Alfonso L.
Published: November 2009

En este trabajo se describe la variabilidad de colores de fibra existente en las poblaciones de alpacas de la región de Huancavelica, Perú. También se analiza la estructura poblacional, la incidencia de defectos y la calidad de la fibra. Se caracterizaron 2341 animales de 22 rebaños de siete comunidades con alpacas de color, y se analizó la calidad de fibra de una pequeña submuestra (121 alpacas). Un 10% de los animales fueron Huarizos y sobre un 20% de color manchado. De los animales de color sólido, un 96% fueron de raza Huacaya y sólo un 4% de raza Suri. El 66% de las alpacas eran de color blanco. Los colores crema y café están bien representados, no así los negro y gris. Para la raza Suri, el problema de conservación va más allá de su coloración, estando en riesgo la propia raza. La estructura de población y la presencia de defectos parecen indicar una menor atención en el manejo de las alpacas de color que en el de las blancas. También la calidad de la fibra de los animales de color fue menor que la de los blancos, decreciendo a medida que aumentaba el tono oscuro de la fibra.
The Pecora Nera di Arbus: a new sheep breed in Sardinia, Italy
Authors: Piras M. , Casu Sara , Salaris S. , Usai M.G. , Carta A.
Published: November 2009

A study of the genetic diversity of Sardinian sheep identified a small population of Pecora Nera di Arbus sheep. This population is composed of about 1000 ewes located in the southwest of Sardinia (Medio-Campidano district), mainly in the area surrounding the village of Arbus. The main features of this breed are black fleece, small size, small or absent auricles and a high frequency of horns in both sexes. These ancestral traits suggest that the population escaped the selection process, that was mainly oriented toward milk yield and the white colour of the fleece, for which the predominant white strain of Sardinian sheep was established. Currently, a programme of promoting this new breed is ongoing. It is mainly based on the production of natural black wool for apparel without chemical dyes.
Characterization of medicinal Senna genetic resources
Authors: Morris J. B.
Published: November 2009

At 50% maturity, regeneratingSennaspecies were characterized for morphological traits, seed reproduction, and evaluated for regeneration. Quality plants regenerated from all accessions produced 1018 to more than 21,215 total seeds. Principal component analysis revealed which traits contributed the greatest to variability among coffee senna accessions.Sennaspecies have potential to produce pharmaceutical products and can be grown as medicinal plants. The flavonoids quercetin and kaempferol found inSennaspecies have been clinically shown to have anti-pancreatic cancer properties.
Diurnal cycle of deep convection in super clusters embedded in the Madden‐Julian Oscillation
Authors: Suzuki Tsuneaki
Published: November 2009

The diurnal cycle of deep convection in the convectively active phase (CAP) and convectively suppressed phase (CSP) of the Madden‐Julian Oscillation (MJO) was investigated using global infrared‐equivalent blackbody temperature (TBB) data from October 2000 to April 2005. We particularly focused on super clusters (SCs) that occurred during the CAP of the MJO. To analyze the behavior of SCs and the CSP of the MJO statistically, we created composites of TBB for each case. Four regions were examined: (1) the Indian Ocean (IO), (2) the ocean area of the Maritime Continent (MCO), (3) the land area of the Maritime Continent (MCL), and (4) the western Pacific (WP). The amplitude (phase) of the diurnal cycle of deeper convection in SCs was larger than (similar to) that of the CSP of the MJO. This result is consistent with that found in a previous study. However, the diurnal cycle of deep convection in the CSP of the MJO had a clear maximum peak, especially over the MCL, but that in SCs had a broader maximum peak of deep convection, especially in oceanic regions, although the diurnal phase was similar between SCs and the CSP of the MJO. This result statistically suggests that the organization of a convective system affects the diurnal cycle of its deep convection, as described in a previous case study. We also demonstrated that the difference in the diurnal cycle of deep convection in the IO and WP regions arose from sea surface temperature differences in those regions.
Conjugate observations on board a satellite and on the ground of a remarkable MLR‐like event
Authors: Němec F. , Raita T. , Parrot M. , Santolík O. , Turunen T.
Published: November 2009

Electromagnetic waves observed by low‐altitude satellites and on the ground have sometimes – when represented as a frequency‐time spectrogram – a form of several nearly parallel and almost equidistant clearly defined lines at frequencies between 1 and 8 kHz. These may drift in frequency and they are usually called Magnetospheric Line Radiation (MLR). Although they have been known for a long time, their origin is still unclear. We present an experimental study using both ground‐based and satellite data, showing for the first time a detailed analysis of the simultaneous observations of an MLR‐like event on the ground and in the conjugate region. We demonstrate that the individual lines forming the event result (at least in this particular case) from elements reflected between the northern and southern hemispheres.