bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Random Packing of Small Blocks: Pressure Effects, Orientational Correlations and Application to Polymer‐Based Composites
Authors: Sergi Danilo , D'Angelo Claudio , Scocchi Giulio , Ortona Alberto
Published: May 2012

Packing is a complex phenomenon of prominence in many natural and industrial processes (liquid crystals, granular materials, infiltration, melting, flow, sintering, segregation, sedimentation, compaction, etc.). A variety of computational methods is available in particular for spheroid particles. Our aim is to apply the principle of the random sequential addition algorithm but with small blocks of varying size and orientation. Here the main purpose is to reproduce the observed arrangement of graphitic assemblies in polymeric matrices. Random packing is improved by applying an external pressure implemented with a drifted diffusive motion of the fillers. Attention is also paid to the emergence of structural and orientational order. Interestingly, mixtures of fillers of irregular shapes can be dealt with efficiently using the proposed algorithm.
Sequence‐dependent backbone dynamics of a viral fusogen transmembrane helix
Authors: Stelzer Walter , Langosch Dieter
Published: May 2012

The transmembrane domains of membrane fusogenic proteins are known to contribute to lipid bilayer mixing as indicated by mutational studies and functional reconstitution of peptide mimics. Here, we demonstrate that mutations of a GxxxG motif or of Ile residues, that were previously shown to compromise the fusogenicity of the Vesicular Stomatitis virus G‐protein transmembrane helix, reduce its backbone dynamics as determined by deuterium/hydrogen‐exchange kinetics. Thus, the backbone dynamics of these helices may be linked to their fusogenicity which is consistent with the known over‐representation of Gly and Ile in viral fusogen transmembrane helices. The transmembrane domains of membrane fusogenic proteins are known to contribute to lipid bilayer mixing. Our present results demonstrate that mutations of certain residues, that were previously shown to compromise the fusogenicity of the Vesicular Stomatitis virus G‐protein transmembrane helix, reduce its backbone dynamics. Thus, the data suggest a relationship between sequence, backbone dynamics, and fusogenicity of transmembrane segments of viral fusogenic proteins.
Designing specific protein–protein interactions using computation, experimental library screening, or integrated methods
Authors: Chen T. Scott , Keating Amy E.
Published: May 2012

Given the importance of protein–protein interactions for nearly all biological processes, the design of protein affinity reagents for use in research, diagnosis or therapy is an important endeavor. Engineered proteins would ideally have high specificities for their intended targets, but achieving interaction specificity by design can be challenging. There are two major approaches to protein design or redesign. Most commonly, proteins and peptides are engineered using experimental library screening and/or in vitro evolution. An alternative approach involves using protein structure and computational modeling to rationally choose sequences predicted to have desirable properties. Computational design has successfully produced novel proteins with enhanced stability, desired interactions and enzymatic function. Here we review the strengths and limitations of experimental library screening and computational structure‐based design, giving examples where these methods have been applied to designing protein interaction specificity. We highlight recent studies that demonstrate strategies for combining computational modeling with library screening. The computational methods provide focused libraries predicted to be enriched in sequences with the properties of interest. Such integrated approaches represent a promising way to increase the efficiency of protein design and to engineer complex functionality such as interaction specificity.
Alpha methylacyl‐CoA racemase (AMACR) in prostate adenocarcinomas from Japanese patients: Is AMACR a “race”‐dependent marker?
Authors: Yamada Hiroshi , Tsuzuki Toyonori , Maeda Nagako , Yamauchi Yushi , Yoshida Shinri , Ishida Ryo , Nishikimi Toshinori , Yokoi Keisuke , Kobayashi Hiroaki
Published: May 2012

BACKGROUND

Alpha methylacyl‐CoA racemase (AMACR) is a useful diagnostic marker for prostate adenocarcinoma. However, its usefulness has not been fully validated in Japanese patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic utility of AMACR in prostate needle biopsy examination in Japanese patients.

METHODS

A total of 119 prospective consecutive prostate needle biopsy specimens (680 cores) obtained from Japanese patients were examined. Sixty patients had adenocarcinoma (adenocarcinoma, 160 cores; benign, 204 cores), 14 patients had high‐grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (HGPIN; 19 cores), and 45 patients did not have any neoplastic lesions (297 cores). AMACR expression was scored semi‐quantitatively as 0 (no expression), 1+ (partial and/or weak expression), or 2+ (strong, circumferential expression). The number of positively stained glands was counted.

RESULTS

2+ AMACR expression was observed in 70.1% of adenocarcinoma cases and in 52.6% of HGPIN cases. Of the adenocarcinoma cases showing 2+ AMACR expression, 34.8% demonstrated a heterogeneous expression pattern, with 1–75% of AMACR‐positive glands. Three hundred eighty‐five of the benign glands with an adenocarcinoma component showed 2+ AMACR expression (35 cases, 94 cores). 2+ AMACR expression was observed in 67 non‐neoplastic benign glands (9 cases, 19 cores).

CONCLUSIONS

The sensitivity and specificity of AMACR for the diagnosis of prostate adenocarcinoma and benign glands in Japanese patients are lower than those previously reported in Western countries. Pathologists should be cautious while interpreting AMACR expression pattern in Japanese patients. Prostate 73: 54–59, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Differential tunability effect on the optical properties of doped and undoped quantum dots
Authors: Gogoi Madhulekha , Deb Pritam , Kostka Aleksander
Published: May 2012

We have studied the optical properties of size‐tunable undoped and Mn2+‐doped cadmium telluride (CdTe) quantum dots (QDs) of monodisperse suspensions with emission wavelength varying between 500 and 680 nm. The role of the surface is investigated for obtaining size‐tunable, bright, and stable CdTe QDs. Differentially tunable optical properties of doped and undoped CdTe QDs has been reported. Unlike the continuous redshifting in the absorption spectra of pristine CdTe system, an unusual blueshift is observed for doped CdTe system after a certain time period of refluxion, followed by again a redshift and the disappearance of earlier peak with further refluxing. The available size range and optical properties are significantly controlled through Mn2+ doping. The surface adsorbed Mn promotes ripening of the doped system as well as disintegration into smaller fraction after saturation in growth occurs. An optimum size fraction is identified for both the systems based on their photoluminescence (PL) quantum yield. The photophysics of Mn2+‐doped nanocrystals has been proposed.
Complex hierarchical arrangements of stacked nanoplates in Al‐doped ZnO
Authors: Ortega Y. , Häussler D. , Piqueras J. , Fernández P. , Jäger W.
Published: May 2012

Al‐doped micro‐ and nanostructures have been grown by an evaporation–deposition method with a mixture of ZnS and Al2O3 powders as precursor. It has been found that the presence of Al is the cause of the growth of complex morphologies, as rods formed by stacks of nanoplates and other complex hierarchical structures. The role of Al in the growth process has been investigated by electron microscopy techniques. Al‐rich particles in specific sites of a central rod lead to hierachical growth. Transmission electron microscopy shows that in some cases the Al‐rich zones are clusters of spinel ZnAl2O4 nanoparticles adhered to ZnO nanorods. Al incorporation into the structures and the dopant effect on the luminescence behavior of the ZnO structures were investigated by energy dispersive spectroscopy and by cathodoluminescence.
Transition voltage spectroscopy in vacuum break junction: The standard tunneling barrier model and beyond
Authors: Bâldea Ioan , Köppel Horst
Published: May 2012

Recent experiments on transition voltage (Vt) spectroscopy in mechanically controllable vacuum break junctions have been interpreted theoretically by using a Simmons WKB‐type approach of the transport by tunneling based on the standard vacuum barrier picture (work function + source‐drain bias + charge images). In the first part of the paper, we present an analysis demonstrating the inconsistencies of that approach. Then, we report detailed results obtained by exactly solving the Schrödinger equation, which show that the standard tunneling barrier model fails to describe the experimental vacuum transition voltage spectroscopy (TVS) data. This indicates that the physical description within that model is incomplete. In the attempt to go beyond the standard barrier model, we report results demonstrating that the inclusion of electron states at the electrodes' surface significantly improves the agreement with experiment. This applies both to the d‐dependence of Vt and to the jump in the linear conductance when approaching the atomic contact limit.
Influence of Ni doping on the electrical and structural properties of FeSb2
Authors: Janaki J. , Mani Awadhesh , Satya A. T. , Kumary T. Geetha , Kalavathi S. , Bharathi A.
Published: May 2012

The influence of increasing Ni doping on the structural and magneto‐transport properties of FeSb2 have been investigated by synthesizing Fe1−xNixSb2 samples with x = 0–0.4 using solid‐state reaction method. The samples are single phase from x = 0–0.1 with the marcasite (FeS2)‐type structure. Beyond x > 0.2 the skutterudite (CoAs3)‐type phase starts progressively separating out apart from the required marcasite phase. The temperature‐dependent electrical resistivity studies in the range 4.2–300 K reveal activation behavior in the high‐temperature (HT) regime (T > 70 K) with a narrow gap. The gap value increases with Ni content x. In contrast, a variable‐range hopping (VRH) type transport is seen in the low‐temperature (LT) regime. The VRH parameter T0 progressively diminishes with increasing x. A detailed analysis of magnetoresistance using the Shklovskii–Efros model in the VRH regime indicates the increase of localization length with increasing Ni content. An insulator to metal transition is observed in the LT regime for x = 0.1. This is ascribed to arise on account of delocalization of localized states within the gap.
The Effect of Parameter Estimation on Upper‐sided Bernoulli Cumulative Sum Charts
Authors: Lee Jaeheon , Wang Ning , Xu Liaosa , Schuh Anna , Woodall William H.
Published: May 2012

The Bernoulli cumulative sum (CUSUM) chart has been shown to be effective for monitoring the rate of nonconforming items in high‐quality processes where the in‐control proportion of nonconforming items (p0) is low. The implementation of the Bernoulli CUSUM chart is often based on the assumption that the in‐control value p0 is known; therefore, when p0 is unknown, accurate estimation is necessary. We recommend using a Bayes estimator to estimate the value of p0 to incorporate practitioner knowledge and to avoid estimation issues when no nonconforming items are observed in phase I. We also investigate the effects of parameter estimation in phase I on the upper‐sided Bernoulli CUSUM chart by using the expected value of the average number of observations to signal (ANOS) and the standard deviation of the ANOS. It is found that the effects of parameter estimation on the Bernoulli CUSUM chart are more significant than those on the Shewhart‐type geometric chart. The low p0 values inherent to high‐quality processes imply that a very large, and often unrealistic, sample size may be needed to accurately estimate p0. A methodology to identify a continuous variable to monitor is highly recommended when the value of p0 is low and the required phase I sample size is impractically large. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modeling complex systems of systems with Phantom System Models
Authors: Haimes Yacov Y.
Published: May 2012

Complex systems are commonly composed of interconnected and inter‐ and intradependent subsystems, which in their essence constitute systems of systems with multiple functions, operations, and stakeholders. Phantom System Models (PSM) is a modeling methodology inspired by philosophical and conceptual thinking from the arts, and is driven and supported by systems engineering theory, methodology, and practice. The PSM is designed to model inter‐ and intradependencies between and among the subsystems of a complex system of systems by exploiting vital knowledge and information embedded in the intrinsic and extrinsic common and uncommon state variables among the subsystems. Among the several systems engineering theories and methodologies, the PSM in particular builds on the centrality of the states of the system in modeling and in risk analysis; fundamentals in system identification (the inverse problem); hierarchical holographic modeling; coordinated hierarchical Bayesian model; and hierarchical decomposition and higher‐level coordination. An example problem of a PSM‐based modeling of a prototype system of systems is presented. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Syst Eng
Treatment of a Methylene‐Bridged Dialuminium Compound with Lithium Alkanides and Alkynides ‐ Single vs. Twofold Terminal Coordination
Authors: Uhl Werner , Rösener Christian , Layh Marcus , Hepp Alexander
Published: May 2012

We have investigated the coordination of alkanide and alkynide anions to the coordinatively unsaturated aluminium atoms of the methylene‐bridged dialuminium compound R2Al‐CH2‐AlR2 [1, R = CH(SiMe3)2]. Treatment of 1 with the corresponding lithium derivatives in the presence of a small excess of TMEN (TMEN = tetramethylethylenediamine) yielded mono‐adducts [M]+[R2Al‐CH2‐AlR2R']– [2a, M = Li(TMEN)2, R' = Me; 2b, M = Li(TMEN)2, R' = n‐Bu; 3a, M = Li(TMEN)2, R' = C≡C‐SiMe3; 3b, M = Li(TMEN)2, R' = C≡C‐t‐Bu; 3d, M = Li(DME)3, R' = C≡C‐Ph; 3e, M = Li(TMEN)2, R' = C≡C‐PPh2)] and bis‐adducts [Li(TMEN)2]+[LiCH2(AlR2R')2]– [4a, R' = C≡C‐CH2‐NEt2; 4b, R' = C≡C‐t‐Bu]. In the solid state the mono‐adducts have clearly separated coordinatively saturated (coordination number four) and unsaturated aluminium atoms (coordination number three). In solution the groups R' show a fast exchange between both aluminium atoms as evident from the room temperature NMR spectra that showed in most cases equivalent CH(SiMe3)2 groups despite different coordination spheres of the metal atoms. Only 2b gave the expected splitting of resonances at ambient temperature, while cooling was required to prevent the dynamic process for 3a. The dialkynide 4a has a unique molecular structure with one of the lithium cations bonded to the α‐carbon atoms of the alkynido ligands and to the carbon atom of the methylene bridge which is five‐coordinate with a distorted trigonal bipyramidal coordination sphere.
Synthesis and X‐ray Crystal Structures of Homoleptic Zinc Complexes Containing Monoanionic β‐Ketoiminato and Bis­(thiophosphinoyl)methanediide Ligands
Authors: Schulz Stephan , Schäper Raphaela , Bläser Dieter , Wölper Christoph
Published: May 2012

Homoleptic zinc complexes of the type L2Zn containing monoanionic β‐ketoiminate and bis(thiophosphinoyl)methanide substituents were synthesized in almost quantitative yield by reaction of HC(CMe)2(O)(N(H)CH2CH2NMe2) and H2C(PPh2=S)2 with zincocene Cp*2Zn at ambient temperature. The reactions proceeded with elimination of Cp*H. [HC(CMe)2(O)(NCH2CH2NMe2)]2Zn (1) and [HC(PPh2=S)2]2Zn (2) were characterized by NMR (1H, 13C, 31P) and IR spectroscopy as well as elemental analysis and single crystal X‐ray diffraction. 1 and 2 were also obtained in reactions of dizincocene, Cp*2Zn2, with two equivalents of the ligands. The reactions proceeded with disproportionation of initially formed monovalent dizinc complexes.
Stoichiometric traits of oriental oak (Quercus variabilis) acorns and their variations in relation to environmental variables across temperate to subtropical China
Authors: Sun Xiao , Kang Hongzhang , Du Hongmei , Hu Haibo , Zhou Jingbo , Hou Jingli , Zhou Xuan , Liu Chunjiang
Published: May 2012

The stoichiometric composition of plant reproductive organs varies with environmental conditions at a large geographical scale, which has potentially important consequences both for plant reproductive success and for the nutrition of consumers. In the study reported here, we investigated variations in the concentrations of macronutrients in acorns of the oriental oak (Quercus variabilis) in relation to environmental variables across a geographic gradient spanning temperate and subtropical latitudes. Across this gradient, nitrogen (N) and calcium (Ca) concentrations of the acorns had higher coefficients of variance (CV 18–23 %) than the other elements (CV 8–14 %). With increasing latitude (LAT), acorn N, potassium (K), and magnesium (Mg) concentrations increased, whereas those of sulfur (S) and Ca and the carbon:nitrogen (C:N) and S:N ratios decreased. The K and Mg concentrations of the acorns were positively correlated with the concentrations of these elements in the soil, whereas N and Ca concentrations were inversely correlated with soil concentrations. The C:N:P (phosphorus) molar ratio of the acorns was 1,008:17:1. A low temperature and short growing season stimulated seeds to accumulate more macronutrient elements in the north to ensure reproductive success, while high soil Ca in the north led plants to allocate less Ca to their acorns. The pattern of variation in acorn stoichiometric traits along LAT may be the result of interacting effects of plant reproduction strategy and environmental factors. Our results can help improve our understanding of the effects of global changes on the chemical compositions of plant reproductive organs and advance our knowledge of global patterns of ecological stoichiometry in reproductive organs.
Clinical Outcomes Analysis of Conservative and Surgical Treatment of Patients With Clinical Indications of Prearthritic, Intra‐articular Hip Disorders
Authors: Hunt Devyani , Prather Heidi , Harris Hayes Marcie , Clohisy John C.
Published: May 2012

Objective

To describe outcomes of the conservative treatment of patients who had the clinical presentation of a prearthritic, intra‐articular hip disorder, including acetabular labral tears, developmental hip dysplasia, and femoroacetabular impingement.

Design

Prospective observational clinical outcomes study.

Setting

Outpatient orthopedic clinic at a tertiary university hospital.

Patients

Patients presenting with prearthritic, intra‐articular hip disorders were recruited. Fifty‐eight consecutive patients were enrolled; 6 were lost to follow‐up, and 52 subjects completed the study.

Methods

Patients were recruited on the basis of symptoms, distribution of pain, and the findings of a physical examination. Radiographic measurements of the hip were obtained for all subjects to describe the presence or absence and extent of deformity and/or osteoarthritis. All subjects completed a directed course of conservative treatment. After 3 months of conservative care, subjects with continued limitations, reduction of symptoms with a diagnostic intra‐articular hip injection, and a surgically amenable lesion found on a magnetic resonance arthrogram proceeded to surgery.

Main Outcome Measurements

Numeric Pain Score (0‐10), Short Form‐12, Modified Harris Hip Score, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index, Nonarthritic Hip Score, Baecke Questionnaire of Habitual Activity, and patient choice to have surgery.

Results

Fifty‐eight patients (9 men and 49 women) with a mean age of 35 ± 11 years (range, 18‐50 years) enrolled in the study. Fifty‐two subjects completed the study. Twenty‐three subjects (44%) reported satisfaction with conservative care. Twenty‐nine subjects (56%) chose to have surgery. Both groups demonstrated equally significant improvement (P value ranges: P = .03 to P = .0001) in all outcome measures from baseline to 1‐year follow‐up. Subjects who chose surgery had higher baseline activity scores compared with the conservative treatment group (P = .02).

Conclusion

All subjects with signs and symptoms of prearthritic, intra‐articular hip disorders who were treated with conservative treatment alone and with conservative treatment followed by surgery demonstrated significant improvement in pain and functioning from baseline to 1 year. Forty‐four percent of patients improved with conservative care alone, and 56% chose to have surgery after receiving conservative care. Persons with more active lifestyles were more likely to choose surgery. These data suggest that a trial of conservative management for persons with prearthritic, intra‐articular hip disorders should be considered before engaging in surgical intervention.
Evidence for the volcanoclastic genesis of the Carnian diamondiferous bed in the Ust’-Olenek area (from petrographic and geochemical data)
Authors: Proskurnin V.F. , Vinogradova N.P. , Gavrysh A.V. , Naumov M.V.
Published: May 2012

A detailed petrographic study of a 0.4–1.2 m thick Carnian diamondiferous bed of the Angardam-Tasa Ridge (Ust’-Olenek area, northern Siberia) was performed. It showed that the bed earlier referred to as a terrigenous deposit might be interpreted as an intensely altered volcanoclastic lapilli tuff of basic and, probably, ultrabasic composition. The tuff occurs within a 100 m thick Ladinian–Carnian volcanosedimentary sequence. It consists mainly of resurgent material: altered lithoclasts (nodules of basic-ultrabasic? lithology), devitrified volcanic glass, fragments of autolithic breccia, etc. The thin volcanoclastic sheet is supposed to have formed within a sedimentation basin as a result of phreatomagmatic eruptions of kimberlite volcanoes. The substantiation of the volcanogenic origin of the Carnian diamondiferous bed might be a new approach to elucidate the primary source of widespread placer diamonds in Arctic Siberia.
Emotional labour and successful ageing in the workplace among older Chinese employees
Authors: CHEUNG FRANCIS , WU ANISE M. S.
Published: May 2012

In this study, we examined the relationship between emotional labour and successful ageing among older Hong Kong Chinese workers. We also investigated whether job satisfaction mediated the association between emotional labour and successful ageing in the workplace. Results show that deep acting was positively related to successful ageing in the workplace, whereas surface acting was negatively related to the same. Structural equation modelling shows that job satisfaction partially mediated the association between emotional labour and successful ageing in the workplace. The limitations of the study and further recommendations are also discussed.
Adjusting to Mealtime Change within the Context of Dementia
Authors: Genoe M. Rebecca , Keller Heather H. , Martin Lori Schindel , Dupuis Sherry L. , Reimer Holly , Cassolato Carly , Edward Gayle
Published: May 2012

On sait peu de ce qui concerne la façon dont les personnes atteintes de démence et leurs partenaires en soins réagissent aux changements qui se produisent au moment des repas tout au long du passage à travers la démence. En interrogeant 27 personnes atteintes de démence, ainsi que leurs 28 partenaires en soins, nous avons exploré la signification et l’expérience de changements qu’impliquent les repas. Les participants se sont adaptés aux changements de repas ens’adaptant à une vie en évolution,comme résultat d’un processus dynamique deprise de consciencedu changement, enattachant un sensau changement, etréagissantaux changements. Les évènements séminals, aggravés par une perception des changements, ont déclenché la sensibilisation de changements au moment des repas. On a attaché une certaine signification aux changements à l’heure des repas observés à travers des émotions éprouvées et des stratégies diverses que l’on a développées pour soutenir les valeurs associées aux repas. La réponse au changement est une question de stades, allant d’y résister, à d’être dans un circuit d’attente, à la transformation et à l’adaptation. Comprendre comment les individus et les familles s’adaptent aux changements au moment des repas, et les stratégies qu’ils qui en résultent pour en venir à bout, fournit des aperçus cruciaux pour soutenir les familles tout au long du voyage à travers la démence.
An artificial pool experiment in Antarctic sea ice: effects of sea ice melting on physical and biogeochemical components of pool water
Authors: Nomura Daiki , Simizu Daisuke , Chavanich Suchana , Shinagawa Hideo , Fukuchi Mitsuo
Published: May 2012

We performed an artificial pool experiment in the Antarctic multi-year land-fast ice to examine and simulate the effect of sea ice melting on physical and biogeochemical components of the sea ice field. The input of snow and ice meltwater resulted in warmer, low salinity water at the surface of the pool and probably stratification of the less dense water. Current speed measurements also pointed to water stratification within the pool. Rapid phytoplankton growth in the pool resulted in drastic decreases in concentrations of dissolved inorganic carbon and nutrients (NO3- and Si(OH)4) in the surface waters of the pool, particularly depleted for NO3-. There was high correlation between variations of dissolved inorganic carbon and nutrient concentrations, but the apparent uptake ratios of these components deviated from that generally applied to marine phytoplankton. The sequence of changes in the physical and biogeochemical components of the pool water suggests that the onset of rapid phytoplankton growth was closely related to the water stratification, which provided stable conditions for phytoplankton bloom even though the supply of nutrients from under-ice water would have declined.
Decontamination of Human and Rabbit Skin Experimentally Contaminated with 99mTc Radionuclide Using the Active Components of “Shudhika”—a Skin Decontamination Kit
Authors: Rana Sudha , Dutta Mita , Soni Nakshe L. , Chopra Mahendra K. , Kumar Vinod , Goel Rajeev , Bhatnagar Aseem , Sultana Sarwat , Sharma Rakesh Kumar
Published: May 2012

Introduction

Radioactive contamination can occur as a result of accidental or intentional release of radioactive materials (RM) into the environment. RM may deposit on clothing, skin, or hair. Decontamination of contaminated persons should be done as soon as possible to minimize the deleterious health effects of radiation. The goal of this study was to evaluate the decontamination efficiency (for residual contaminant) of the active components of “Shudhika,” an indigenously developed skin decontamination kit. The study kit is for external radioactive decontamination of intact skin.

Methods

Decontamination efficiency was evaluated on the skin surface of rabbit (n = 6) and human volunteers (n = 13). 99mTc sodium pertechnetate (200-250 μCi) was used as the radio-contaminant. Skin surface area (5 × 5 cm2) of thoracic abdominal region of the rabbit and the forearm and the palm of human volunteers were used for the study. Decontamination was performed by using cotton swabs soaked with chemical decontamination agents of the kit.

Results

Decontamination efficiency (% of the contaminant removed) was calculated for each component of the study. Overall effectiveness of the kit was calculated to be 85% ± 5% in animal and 92% ± 3% in human skin surfaces. Running water and liquid soap with water was able to decontaminate volunteers' hand and animal skin up to 70% ± 5%. Chemical decontamination agents were applied only for trace residues (30% ± 5%). Efficiency of all the kit components was found up to be 20% ± 3% (animal) and 28% ± 2 (human), respectively. Residual contamination after final decontamination attempt for both the models was observed to be 12% ± 3% and 5% ± 2%. After 24 and 48 hours of the decontamination procedure, skin was found to be normal (no redness, erythema and edema were observed).

Conclusion

Decontaminants of the study kit were effective in removal of localized radioactive skin contamination when water is ineffective for further decontamination. By using the chemical decontaminants of the study kit, the use of water and radioactive waste generation could be reduced. Cross-contamination could also be avoided. During radiologic emergencies where water may be radioactively contaminated, the study kit could be used.

Rana S, Dutta M, Soni NL, Chopra MK, Kumar V, Goel R, Bhatnagar A, Sultana S, Sharma RK. Decontamination of human and rabbit skin experimentally contaminated with 99mTc radionuclide using the active components of “Shudika”—a skin decontamination kit. Prehosp Disaster Med. 2012;27(2):1-5.
Use of a Geographic Information System (GIS) in the Medical Response to the Fukushima Nuclear Disaster in Japan
Authors: Nagata Takashi , Kimura Yoshinari , Ishii Masami
Published: May 2012

The Great East Japan Earthquake occurred on March 11, 2011. In the first 10 days after the event, information about radiation risks from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant was unavailable, and the disaster response, including deployment of disaster teams, was delayed. Beginning on March 17, 2011, the Japan Medical Association used a geographic information system (GIS) to visualize the risk of radiation exposure in Fukushima. This information facilitated the decision to deploy disaster medical response teams on March 18, 2011.

Nagata T, Kimura Y, Ishii M. Use of a geographic information system (GIS) in the medical response to the Fukushima nuclear disaster in Japan.Prehosp Disaster Med.2012;27(2):1-3.
Simple wild -packets
Authors: Kaletha Tasho
Published: May 2012

In a recent paper, Gross and Reeder study the arithmetic properties of discrete Langlands parameters for semi-simple$p$-adic groups, and they conjecture that a special class of these – the simple wild parameters – should correspond to$L$-packets consisting of simple supercuspidal representations. We provide a construction of this correspondence, and show that the simple wild$L$-packets satisfy many expected properties. In particular, they admit a description in terms of the Langlands dual group, and contain a unique generic element for a fixed Whittaker datum. Moreover, we prove their stability on an open subset of the regular semi-simple elements, and show that they satisfy a natural compatibility with respect to unramified base-change.
Soil quality improvement under an ecologically based farming system in northwest Missouri
Authors: Kremer Robert J. , Hezel Linda F.
Published: May 2012

Ecologically based farming conserves and improves the soil resource and protects environmental quality by using organic or natural resources without the application of synthetic chemicals. Soil quality assessment indicates the ability of management systems to optimize soil productivity and to maintain its structural and biological integrity. Our objective was to evaluate the effect of ecologically based management on biochemical characteristics of soil [soil quality indicators (SQI)] as an assessment of soil quality. The study was conducted on an ecologically based farming enterprise established on gently sloping soils of Sharpsburg silt loam (fine montmorillonitic, mesic Typic Argiudolls) in Clay County, Missouri, which was previously under conventional corn and soybean production. The transition to organic farming began in 1995, which included a primary management strategy to restore soil organic matter consisting of the establishment of native prairie plants and the application of composted vegetative residues and litter from horse and laying hen operations. Soils were collected at 0–10cm depths from sites under organic production (orchard and vegetable), managed prairie/pasture and from adjacent unmanaged fields during 2003–2008 for soil quality assessment. Soil organic carbon (SOC) and water-stable soil aggregates were considerably increased by up to 60 and 72%, respectively, in organic production sites compared with tilled cropland by the fifth year of assessment. Organically managed systems and restored prairie sites significantly increased (P<0.05) soil enzyme activities compared with unmanaged grass and tilled cropland. For example, dehydrogenase and glucosaminidase activities increased by 60 and 73%, respectively, under organic vegetables compared with tilled cropland. Soil enzyme activities were significantly correlated with SOC content (rvalues up to 0.90,P<0.001). The results of the soil quality assessment suggest that ecologically based management successfully restored biological activity of silt loam soils previously under intensive conventional agriculture. The system practiced at the study sites illustrates how resources internal to the farm (i.e., composts) can be used to manage soil productivity.
Letter-shaped microstrip ground slots
Authors: Safwat Amr M. E.
Published: May 2012

This paper proposes a systematic approach for designing and modeling letter-shaped microstrip ground slots. Twenty-three structures are investigated. For each one, a geometrical circuit model is developed. Interestingly, 21 letters have unique s-parameters (electromagnetic [EM] print). Results are confirmed by EM simulations and measurements. These results may pave the way to new applications, e.g. microwave character recognition, letter-based microwave circuits, or new radio frequency identification (RFID) structures
Climate Change Law in an Era of Multi-Level Governance
Authors: Peel Jacqueline , Godden Lee , Keenan Rodney J.
Published: May 2012

As international negotiations struggle to deliver timely, binding commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to safe levels, the environmental legal community has begun to contemplate the scope for climate governance ‘beyond’ the international climate change regime. Many see merit in a more decentralized, disaggregated approach, operating across multiple governance levels. This article examines the development of climate change law in an era of multi-level governance. It analyzes several case studies of current manifestations of multi-level governance in climate change law, including the fragmented global emissions trading system, developing arrangements governing forests and land-based sinks, the growth of climate litigation establishing transnational liability principles, efforts to ensure adaptation to unavoidable climate change, and the emergence in federal systems of a decentralized approach to climate change regulation. The article concludes by considering whether the emerging multi-level system of climate governance is adequate to meet broader international goals of climate change mitigation and adaptation.
Contribution of the location and spatial pattern of initial error to uncertainties in El Niño predictions
Authors: Yu Yanshan , Mu Mu , Duan Wansuo , Gong Tingting
Published: May 2012

With the Zebiak‐Cane model, the contribution of the location and spatial pattern of initial error in sea surface temperature anomalies (SSTA) to uncertainty in El Niño predictions is investigated using an approach based on conditional nonlinear optimal perturbation (CNOP), which seeks to find the initial error (i.e., the CNOP error) that satisfies a given constraint and that causes the largest prediction error at the prediction time. The computed CNOP error of SSTA has a dipole pattern in the equatorial central and eastern Pacific. The initial error from the equatorial central and eastern Pacific tends to grow more significantly than those from other locations. Because of the contribution of annual mean states the location of the initial error plays an important role in the error evolution; e.g., the shallow annual mean thermocline in the eastern Pacific favors feedback between the thermocline and sea surface temperature. Meanwhile, the specific dipole structure of the initial error is also crucial for optimal error growth. Even with the same magnitude as the CNOP error, random initial error in the equatorial central and eastern Pacific does not evolve significantly over time. Initial errors of SSTA with a similar spatial pattern to the CNOP error (i.e., the dipole pattern of SSTA error) give rise to larger prediction errors than those without similar spatial pattern do. Consequently, the magnitude of the prediction error at the prediction time depends on the combined effects of the location and spatial pattern of the initial error. If additional observation instruments are deployed to observe sea surface temperature with limited coverage, they should preferentially be deployed in the equatorial central and eastern Pacific.
VLSS redux: Software improvements applied to the Very Large Array Low‐Frequency Sky Survey
Authors: Lane W. M. , Cotton W. D. , Helmboldt J. F. , Kassim N. E.
Published: May 2012

We present details of improvements to data processing and analysis which were recently used for a re‐reduction of the Very Large Array (VLA) Low‐Frequency Sky Survey (VLSS) data. Algorithms described are implemented in the data‐reduction package Obit, and include smart‐windowing to reduce clean bias, improved automatic radio frequency interference removal, improved bright‐source peeling, and higher‐order Zernike fits to model the ionospheric phase contributions. An additional, but less technical improvement was using the original VLSS catalog as a same‐frequency/same‐resolution reference for calculating ionospheric corrections, allowing more accuracy and a higher percentage of data for which solutions are found. We also discuss new algorithms for extracting a source catalog and analyzing ionospheric fluctuations present in the data. The improved reduction techniques led to substantial improvements including images of six previously unpublished fields (1% of the survey area) and reducing the clean bias by 50%. The largest angular size imaged has been roughly doubled, and the number of cataloged sources is increased by 35% to 95,000.
p130Cas-dependent actin remodelling regulates myogenic differentiation
Authors: Kawauchi Keiko , Tan Wee Wee , Araki Keigo , Abu Bakar Farhana Binte , Kim Minsoo , Fujita Hideaki , Hirata Hiroaki , Sawada Yasuhiro
Published: May 2012

Actin dynamics are implicated in various cellular processes, not only through the regulation of cytoskeletal organization, but also via the control of gene expression. In the present study we show that the Src family kinase substrate p130Cas (Cas is Crk-associated substrate) influences actin remodelling and concomitant muscle-specific gene expression, thereby regulating myogenic differentiation. In C2C12 myoblasts, silencing of p130Cas expression by RNA interference impaired F-actin (filamentous actin) formation and nuclear localization of the SRF (serum-response factor) co-activator MAL (megakaryocytic acute leukaemia) following the induction of myogenic differentiation. Consequently, formation of multinucleated myotubes was abolished. Re-introduction of wild-type p130Cas, but not its phosphorylation-defective mutant, into p130Cas-knockdown myoblasts restored F-actin assembly, MAL nuclear localization and myotube formation. Depletion of the adhesion molecule integrin β3, a key regulator of myogenic differentiation as well as actin cytoskeletal organization, attenuated p130Cas phosphorylation and MAL nuclear localization during C2C12 differentiation. Moreover, knockdown of p130Cas led to the activation of the F-actin-severing protein cofilin. The introduction of a dominant-negative mutant of cofilin into p130Cas-knockdown myoblasts restored muscle-specific gene expression and myotube formation. The results of the present study suggest that p130Cas phosphorylation, mediated by integrin β3, facilitates cofilin inactivation and promotes myogenic differentiation through modulating actin cytoskeleton remodelling.
The MEKK1 SWIM domain is a novel substrate receptor for c-Jun ubiquitylation
Authors: Rieger Michael A. , Duellman Tyler , Hooper Christopher , Ameka Magdalene , Bakowska Joanna C. , Cuevas Bruce D.
Published: May 2012

MEKK1 [MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase)/ERK (extracellular-signal-regulated kinase) kinase kinase 1] is a MAP3K (MAPK kinase kinase) that regulates MAPK activation, and is the only known mammalian kinase that is also a ubiquitin ligase. MEKK1 contains a RING domain within its N-terminal regulatory region, and MEKK1 has been shown to ubiquitylate the AP-1 (activator protein 1) transcription factor protein c-Jun, but the mechanism by which MEKK1 interacts with c-Jun to induce ubiquitylation has not been defined. Proximal to the RING domain is a SWIM (SWI2/SNF2 and MuDR) domain of undetermined function. In the present study, we demonstrate that the MEKK1 SWIM domain, but not the RING domain, directly associates with the c-Jun DNA-binding domain, and that the SWIM domain is required for MEKK1-dependent c-Jun ubiquitylation. We further show that this MEKK1 SWIM–Jun interaction is specific, as SWIM domains from other proteins failed to bind c-Jun. We reveal that, although the Jun and Fos DNA-binding domains are highly conserved, the MEKK1 SWIM domain does not bind Fos. Finally, we identify the sequence unique to Jun proteins required for specific interaction with the MEKK1 SWIM domain. Therefore we propose that the MEKK1 SWIM domain represents a novel substrate-binding domain necessary for direct interaction between c-Jun and MEKK1 that promotes MEKK1-dependent c-Jun ubiquitylation.
Protease activity of MALT1: a mystery unravelled
Authors: Kirchhofer Daniel , Vucic Domagoj
Published: May 2012

Constitutive NF-κB (nuclear factor κB) activation in B-cell lymphomas relies greatly on the CARMA1 [CARD (caspase recruitment domain)-containing MAGUK (membrane-associated guanylate kinase) 1]–Bcl10–MALT1 (mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue translocation gene 1) signalling complex. Within this protein complex, MALT1 possesses a rather unique enzymatic activity, which allows it to cleave Bcl10, RelB and CYLD, among other substrates. The catalytic activity of MALT1 promotes activation of canonical and non-canonical NF-κB as well as other signalling pathways. However, even after a decade of intense research on MALT1, many mechanistic aspects of its enzymatic activity remain elusive. A recent article by Hachmann, Snipas, van Raam, Cancino, Houlihan, Poreba, Kasperkiewicz, Drag and Salvesen [(2012) Biochem. J. 443, 287–295] provides novel insight into the activation mechanism and the substrate specificity of MALT1. These intriguing findings convincingly demonstrate the importance of MALT1 dimerization for its catalytic activity and pave the way for novel therapeutic approaches that target this crucial regulator of lymphoma survival and proliferation.
Different levels of testicular organization during gonadal differentiation in B6.YTir mice manifesting sex reversal
Authors: Antonio‐Rubio Nivia Rocio , Moreno‐Mendoza Norma
Published: May 2012

B6.YTir (mice with Y chromosome from a strain in Tirano, Italy, and autosomes and X‐chromosomes from the B6 strain) mice provide an excellent model for analysing sex development that occurs during gonadal differentiation; however, the molecular mechanisms that contribute to sex reversal are unclear. Our aim has been to establish which molecular events participate in this sex reversal. The pattern of gene expression related to testicular [Sry (sex‐determining region of the Y chromosome), Sox9 (Sry‐related high‐mobility group box gene 9) and Mis (Müllerian‐inhibiting substance)] and ovarian [Wnt4 (Wingless‐type MMTV (murine‐mammary‐tumour virus) integration site family, member 4), Rspo1 (cysteine‐rich secretory protein containing a thrombospondin type 1 repeat) and Stra8 (stimulated by retinoic acid gene 8)] differentiation was analysed by applying immunofluorescence and real‐time RT—PCR (reverse transcription—PCR), focusing on XY gonads from the B6.YTir mouse, but also analysing the normal strains CD‐1 and C57BL/6J (B6). The expression of genes related to the process of sexual differentiation was altered in the case of the B6.YTir strain, both at the transcript and protein level, inducing differentiation of ovaries and ovotestes, but not the formation of the testes, which were normal. Our results indicate that the expression of testicular genes is inhibited at various levels, permitting the expression of ovarian genes such as Wnt4, Stra8 and Rspo1. However, their activity was not clear when the data were averaged. Correlation analysis indicated that an ovary differentiation pathway is activated when the testicular differentiation pathway is inhibited.
Lysophosphatidic acid modulates the association of PTP1B with N‐cadherin/catenin complex in SKOV3 ovarian cancer cells
Authors: Huang Ruby Yun‐Ju , Wen Chen‐Chen , Liao Chih‐Kai , Wang Shu‐Huei , Chou Liang‐Yin , Wu Jiahn‐Chun
Published: May 2012

LPA (lysophosphatidic acid) is a natural phospholipid that plays important roles in promoting cancer cell proliferation, invasion and metastases. We previously reported that LPA induces ovarian cancer cell dispersal and disruption of AJ (adherens junction) through the activation of SFK (Src family kinases). In this study, we have investigated the regulatory mechanisms during the early phase of LPA‐induced cell dispersal. An in vitro model of the ovarian cancer cell line SKOV3 for cell dispersal was used. LPA induces rapid AJ disruption by increasing the internalization of N‐cadherin‐β‐catenin. By using immunoprecipitations, LPA was shown to induce increased tyrosine phosphorylation of β‐catenin and alter the balance of β‐catenin‐bound SFK and PTP1B (phosphotyrosine phosphatase 1B). The altered balance of tyrosine kinase/phosphatase correlated with a concomitant disintegration of the β‐catenin‐α‐catenin, but not the β‐catenin—N‐cadherin complex. This disintegration of β‐catenin from α‐catenin and the cell dispersal caused by LPA can be rescued by blocking SFK activity with the chemical inhibitor, PP2. More importantly, PP2 also restores the level of PTP1B bound to β‐catenin. We propose that LPA signalling alters AJ stability by changing the dynamics of tyrosine kinase/phosphatase bound to AJ proteins. This work provides further understanding of the early signalling events regulating ovarian cancer cell dispersal and AJ disruption induced by LPA.
Reversed sexual dimorphism and altered prey base: the effect on sooty owl (Tyto tenebricosa tenebricosa) diet
Authors: Bilney Rohan J. , White John G. , Cooke Raylene
Published: May 2012

The ecology and function of many Australian predators has likely been disrupted following major changes in prey base due to declines in distribution and abundance of small mammals following European settlement. This study investigated various aspects of the dietary ecology of sooty owls (Tyto tenebricosa tenebricosa), including sexual variation as they potentially exhibit the greatest degree of reversed sexual dimorphism of any owl species worldwide. Sooty owls are highly opportunistic predators of non-volant small mammals, consuming most species known to exist in the region, so their diet fluctuates seasonally and spatially due to varying prey availability, and is particularly influenced by the breeding cycles of prey. Significant intersexual dietary differences existed with female sooty owls predominantly consuming much larger prey items than males, with dietary overlap at 0.62. The current reliance on relatively few native mammalian species is of conservation concern, especially when mammal declines are unlikely to have ceased as many threatening processes still persist in the landscape. Sooty owl conservation appears inextricably linked with small mammal conservation. Conservation efforts should be focussed towards improving prey densities and prey habitat, primarily by implementing control programs for feral predators and preventing the loss of hollow-bearing trees throughout the landscape.