bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis, Crystal Structure, and Microwave Dielectric Properties of (Mg1−xCox)Ta2O6Solid Solutions
Authors: Huang Cheng‐Liang , Chen Jhih‐Yong
Published: October 2009

High‐dielectric‐constant and low‐loss ceramics in the (Mg1−xCox)Ta2O6solid solutions have been prepared using the conventional mixed oxide route and their microwave dielectric properties have been investigated. The X‐ray diffraction patterns as well as the measured lattice parameters indicated the (Mg1−xCox)Ta2O6ceramics tended to form a complete solid solution with a trirutile structure. In comparison with that of simple MgTa2O6, an enhanced grain growth can be achieved by substituting Mg with 0.05 mol% Co. It also leads to an increase in both the ɛrandQ×fvalues of the ceramics. The specimen withx=0.05 possessed a combination of microwave dielectric properties: ɛr∼30.67, theQ×f∼106 200 GHz, and τf∼42.9 ppm/°C.
Polymer‐Derived SiOC/ZrO2 Ceramic Nanocomposites with Excellent High‐Temperature Stability
Authors: Ionescu Emanuel , Linck Christoph , Fasel Claudia , Müller Mathis , Kleebe Hans–Joachim , Riedel Ralf
Published: October 2009

Polymer‐derived SiOC/ZrO2 ceramic nanocomposites have been prepared using two synthetic approaches. A commercially available polymethylsilsesquioxane (MK Belsil PMS) was filled with nanocrystalline zirconia particles in the first approach. The second method involved the addition of zirconium tetra(n‐propoxide), Zr(OnPr)4, as zirconia precursor to polysilsesquioxane. The prepared materials have been subsequently cross‐linked and pyrolyzed at 1100°C in argon atmosphere to provide SiOC/ZrO2 ceramics. The obtained SiOC/ZrO2 materials were characterized by means of X‐ray diffraction, elemental analysis, Raman spectroscopy as well as transmission electron microscopy. Furthermore, annealing experiments at temperatures from 1300° to 1600°C have been performed. The annealing experiments revealed that the incorporation of ZrO2 into the SiOC matrix remarkably increases the thermal stability of the composites with respect to crystallization and decomposition at temperatures exceeding 1300°C. The results obtained within this study emphasize the enormous potential of polymer‐derived SiOC/ZrO2 composites for high‐temperature applications.
Metformin attenuates ovarian cancer cell growth in an AMP‐kinase dispensable manner
Authors: Rattan R. , Giri S. , Hartmann L.C. , Shridhar V.
Published: October 2009

Metformin, the most widely used drug for type 2 diabetes activates 59 adenosine monophosphate (AMP)‐activated protein kinase (AMPK), which regulates cellular energy metabolism. Here, we report that ovarian cell lines VOSE, A2780, CP70, C200, OV202, OVCAR3, SKOV3ip, PE01 and PE04 predominantly express ‐α1, ‐β1, ‐γ1 and ‐γ2 isoforms of AMPK subunits. Our studies show that metformin treatment (1) significantly inhibited proliferation of diverse chemo‐responsive and ‐resistant ovarian cancer cell lines (A2780, CP70, C200, OV202, OVCAR3, SKVO3ip, PE01 and PE04), (2) caused cell cycle arrest accompanied by decreased cyclin D1 and increased p21 protein expression, (3) activated AMPK in various ovarian cancer cell lines as evident from increased phosphorylation of AMPKα and its downstream substrate; acetyl co‐carboxylase (ACC) and enhanced β‐oxidation of fatty acid and (4) attenuated mTOR‐S6RP phosphorylation, inhibited protein translational and lipid biosynthetic pathways, thus implicating metformin as a growth inhibitor of ovarian cancer cells. We also show that metformin‐mediated effect on AMPK is dependent on liver kinase B1 (LKB1) as it failed to activate AMPK‐ACC pathway and cell cycle arrest in LKB1 null mouse embryo fibroblasts (mefs). This observation was further supported by using siRNA approach to down‐regulate LKB1 in ovarian cancer cells. In contrast, met formin inhibited cell proliferation in both wild‐type and AMPKα1/2 null mefs as well as in AMPK silenced ovarian cancer cells. Collectively, these results provide evidence on the role of metformin as an anti‐proliferative therapeutic that can act through both AMPK‐dependent as well as AMPK‐independent pathways.
Involvement of neuropeptide Y and its Y1 and Y5 receptors in maintaining self‐renewal and proliferation of human embryonic stem cells
Authors: Son Mi‐Young , Kim Min‐Jeong , Yu Kweon , Koo Deog‐Bon , Cho Yee Sook
Published: October 2009

Neuropeptide Y (NPY) and NPY receptors are widely expressed in various organs and cell types and have been shown to have pleiotropic functions. However, their presence or role in human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) remains unknown. We now show that undifferentiated hESCs primarily express NPY and its Y1 and Y5 receptors. Inhibition of NPY signalling using either the selective NPY Y1 or Y5 receptor antagonist reduces the maintenance of self‐renewal and proliferation of undifferentiated hESCs. We also provide compelling evidence that exogenous NPY supports the long‐term growth of undifferentiated hESCs in the absence of feeder cell factors using only knockout serum replacement media. Further, NPY facilitates the use of chemically defined medium made up of N2/B27 supplement and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) for hESC feeder‐free culture. Our results indicate that both Y1 and Y5 receptors appear to be involved in the NPY‐mediated activation of AKT/protein kinase B and extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) in hESCs. Notably, only Y1 receptor, but not Y5 receptor, is responsible for the NPY‐induced activation of cAMP‐response element binding (CREB) in hESCs. These results provide the first evidence that NPY and its Y1 and Y5 receptors have potential role in maintaining hESC self‐renewal and pluripotency. We demonstrate the underlying importance of NPY signalling and its usefulness in the development of a defined and xeno‐free culture condition for the large‐scale propagation of undifferentiated hESCs.
Semipermeable glove membranes–effects on skin barrier repair following SLS irritation
Authors: Bock Meike , Damer Klaus , Wulfhorst Britta , John Swen Malte
Published: October 2009

Background: Transepidermal water flux is the regulatory signal for barrier regeneration.

Objective: In this study, we evaluated the impact of glove membranes, which provide a partial barrier and different water loss rates, on barrier recovery after standardized irritation with sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS).

Methods: Twenty‐five healthy volunteers were irritated for 24 hr with SLS 1%. Four test areas were marked on clinically normal skin on the upper back. Barrier repair under consecutive dressing with semipermeable membranes (GoreTex®, Sympatex®), an occlusive membrane (Meditrate Vinyl®), and in an uncovered control area were evaluated by measurements of transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and erythema (a*).

Results: Areas semipermeably covered showed an enhanced barrier recovery and a reduced inflammatory response compared to the area under occlusion and the control. During healing process, TEWL (P < 0.01) and a* (P < 0.001) values were significantly lower in areas semipermeably covered than in the vinyl covered area and in the control.

Conclusions: The results support the hypothesis that semipermeable materials improve barrier recovery rates by providing an optimized water vapour gradient during the healing process. This underlines the unique benefit of semipermeable gloves in the prevention of occupational skin disease: (i) by minimizing glove‐induced irritation and (ii) by enhancing barrier recovery through protective glove materials at the work place in cases of pre‐existing minor irritant dermatitis.
Nickel allergy in patch‐tested female hairdressers and assessment of nickel release from hairdressers' scissors and crochet hooks
Authors: Thyssen Jacob Pontoppidan , Milting Kristina , Bregnhøj Anne , Søsted Heidi , Duus Johansen Jeanne , Menné Torkil
Published: October 2009

Background: Hand eczema as well as nickel contact allergy is prevalent among hairdressers. Recently, two female hairdressers were diagnosed with nickel contact allergy‐related hand eczema following prolonged skin contact with scissors and crochet hooks used during work.

Objectives: To determine the proportion of hairdressers' scissors and crochet hooks that released an excessive amount of nickel and to determine the prevalence of nickel allergy among patch‐tested female hairdressers.

Materials: Random hairdressers' stores in Copenhagen were visited. The dimethylglyoxime (DMG) test was used to assess excessive nickel release. The prevalence of nickel allergy among female hairdressers from the database at Gentofte Hospital was compared with the prevalence of nickel allergy among other consecutively patch‐tested dermatitis patients.

Results: DMG testing showed that 1 (0.5%; 95% CI = 0 − 2.0) of 200 pairs of scissors and 7 (53.8%; 95% CI = 26.0 − 82.0) of 13 crochet hooks released an excessive amount of nickel. The prevalence of nickel allergy was higher among middle‐aged and older female hairdressers than among young female hairdressers.

Conclusions: The prevalence of nickel allergy was lower among young hairdressers in comparison to older hairdressers. This may possibly be a result of the European Union (EU) Nickel Directive or a consequence of a decreased use of nickel‐releasing work tools in salons. When nickel allergic hairdressers present with hand eczema, their work tools should be investigated for nickel release.
The importance of propolis in patch testing–a multicentre survey
Authors: Rajpara Sanjay , Wilkinson Mark S. , King Claudah M. , Gawkrodger David J. , English John S. C. , Statham Barry N. , Green Cathy , Sansom Jane E. , Chowdhury Mabs M. U. , Horne Helen L. , Ormerod Anthony D.
Published: October 2009

Background: Propolis is widely used in ‘natural’ cosmetics, remedies, and over‐the‐counter products. The incidence of propolis allergy is increasing, and cross‐reaction with fragrance mix I (FMII), colophonium, and Myroxylon pereirae can occur.

Objectives: To find out the prevalence and clinical relevance of positive patch tests to propolis and assess cross‐reactions with Myroxylon pereirae, colophonium, FMI, and beeswax.

Methods: Two thousand eight hundred and twenty‐eight subjects in 10 UK centres were patch tested with propolis and beeswax. Generic data were acquired from British Contact Dermatology Society (BCDS) database and further relevant information was requested by survey of participating centres.

Results: The prevalence of propolis allergy was 1.9% (55/2828). Out of these 55 subjects, only 4 (7.2%) were allergic to beeswax, 22 (40%) to Myroxylon pereirae, 15 (27.2%) to colophonium, and 6 (10.9%) to FMI. Additional data for 41 propolis allergic subjects were collected by questionnaire. Hands were the most common sites of involvement, and cosmetics were the most common source of contact. Eight out of 12 subjects reported improvement in eczema following avoidance of propolis.

Conclusions: Propolis is an important allergen of increasing frequency and its inclusion in BCDS baseline series is appropriate. Cross‐sensitivity to beeswax is rare.
Contact sensitisation in hand eczema patients–relation to subdiagnosis, severity and quality of life: a multi‐centre study
Authors: Agner Tove , Andersen Klaus Ejner , Brandao Francisco M. , Bruynzeel Derk P. , Bruze Magnus , Frosch Peter , Gonçalo Margarida , Goossens An , Le coz Christophe J. , Rustemeyer Thomas , White Ian R. , Diepgen Thomas ,   on behalf of the EECDRG
Published: October 2009

Background: Contact sensitisation has been identified as a factor associated with poor prognosis for patients with hand eczema.

Objectives: To study implications of contact sensitisation with respect to severity, quality of life (QoL) and subdiagnosis of hand eczema.

Methods: The study was performed as a multi‐centre, cross‐sectional study from 10 European clinics. All patients were patch tested, and severity of hand eczema assessed by Hand Eczema Severity Index. A multi‐variate analysis was performed to explore which factors influenced severity, QoL and sick leave.

Results: A total 416 patients were included, and 63% had contact sensitisation to one or more of the tested allergens. More women (66%) than men (51%) were sensitized. No significant association was found between sensitisation to specific allergens, disease severity, QoL or diagnostic subgroups. High age, male sex, atopic eczema and presence of contact sensitisation were independent risk factors for increased severity as measured by Hand Eczema Severity Index. Furthermore, the severity of hand eczema increased by the number of contact sensitisations detected (P = 0.023). High age and personal history of atopic eczema were independent risk factors for low QoL, as measured by Dermatology Life Quality Index, and atopic eczema as well as allergic contact dermatitis as subdiagnosis was associated with increased sick leave.

Conclusion: Diagnostic subgroups were not found to be related to specific allergens. Contact sensitisation was found to be a risk factor for increased severity of hand eczema, as did high age, male sex and atopic eczema.
Validity of BMI based on self‐reported weight and height in adolescents
Authors: Fonseca H , Silva AM , Matos MG , Esteves I , Costa P , Guerra A , Gomes‐Pedro J
Published: October 2009

Aim:  To assess in a subset of a nationally representative sample of Portuguese adolescents, the validity of Body Mass Index (BMI) based on self‐reported weight and height.

Methods:  This study included 462 students in grades 6, 8 and 10 (mean age 14.0 ± 1.9 years) from 12 public schools randomly selected from the list of schools which took part in the 2006 Health Behaviour in School Aged Children Portuguese survey, corresponding to approximately 10% of the sample. Self‐reported weight and height were recorded and then measured.

Results:  Prevalence of normal weight, overweight and obesity based on self‐report compared with that of measured values was not significantly different for boys and girls, and among age groups. BMI based on measured weight and height was underestimated compared with BMI based on self‐reported data, both among girls and boys. Larger limits of agreement were found for boys, indicating a higher variability of self‐reported BMI in estimating measured BMI, specifically below the age of 14 years.

Conclusion:  These data suggest that BMI based on self‐reported weight and height is not accurate for BMI prediction at an individual level. However, self‐reported BMI may be used as a simple and valid tool for BMI estimates of overweight and obesity in epidemiological studies.
New insights into the development of retinopathy of prematurity – importance of early weight gain
Authors: Hellström A , Ley D , Hansen‐Pupp I , Niklasson A , Smith L , Löfqvist C , Hård A‐L
Published: October 2009

Evidence is accumulating that one of the strongest predictors of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), in addition to low gestational age, is poor weight gain during the first weeks of life. In infants born preterm, the retina is not fully vascularised. The more premature the child, the larger is the avascular area. In response to hypoxia, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is secreted. For appropriate VEGF‐induced vessel growth, sufficient levels of insulin‐like growth factor I (IGF‐I) in serum are necessary. IGF‐I is a peptide, related to nutrition supply, which is essential for both pre‐ and post‐natal general growth as well as for growth of the retinal vasculature. In prematurely born infants, serum levels are closely related to gestational age and are lower in more prematurely born infants. At preterm birth the placental supply of nutrients is lost, growth factors are suddenly reduced and general as well as vascular growth slows down or ceases. In addition, the relative hyperoxia of the extra‐uterine milieu, together with supplemental oxygen, causes a regression of already developed retinal vessels. Postnatal growth retardation is a major problem in very preterm infants. Both poor early weight gain and low serum levels of IGF‐I during the first weeks/months of life have been found to be correlated with severity of ROP.

Conclusion: This review will focus on the mechanisms leading to ROP by exploring factors responsible for poor early weight gain and abnormal vascularisation of the eye of the preterm infant.
Comparison of the inward‐ and outward‐open homology models and ligand binding of human P‐glycoprotein
Authors: Pajeva Ilza K. , Globisch Christoph , Wiese Michael
Published: October 2009

An homology model of human P‐glycoprotein, based on the X‐ray structure of the recently resolved mouse P‐glycoprotein, is presented. The model corresponds to the inward‐facing conformation competent for drug binding. From the model, the residues involved in the protein‐binding cavity are identified and compared with those in the outward‐facing conformation of human P‐glycoprotein developed previously based on the Sav1866 structure. A detailed analysis of the interactions of the cyclic peptides QZ59‐RRR and QZ59‐SSS is presented in both the X‐ray structures of mouse P‐glycoprotein and the human P‐glycoprotein model generated by ligand docking. The results confirm the functional role of transmembrane domains TM4, TM6, TM10 and TM12 as entrance gates to the protein cavity, and also imply differences in their functions. The analysis of the cavities in both models suggests that the ligands remain bound to the same residues during the transition from the inward‐ to the outward‐facing conformations. The analysis of the ligand–protein interactions in the X‐ray complexes shows differences in the residues involved, as well as in the specific interactions performed by the same ligand within the same protein. This observation is supported by docking of the QZ59 ligands into human P‐glycoprotein, thus aiding in the understanding of the complex behavior of P‐glycoprotein substrates and inhibitors. The results confirm the possibility for multispecific drug interactions of the protein, and are important for elucidating the P‐glycoprotein function and ligand interactions.
Lack of stabilized microtubules as a result of the absence of major maps in CAD cells does not preclude neurite formation
Authors: Bisig C. Gastón , Chesta María E. , Zampar Guillermo G. , Purro Silvia A. , Santander Verónica S. , Arce Carlos A.
Published: October 2009

In many laboratories, the requirement of microtubule‐associated proteins (MAPs) and the stabilization of microtubules for the elongation of neurites has been intensively investigated, with controversial results being obtained. We have observed that the neurite microtubules of Cath.a‐differentiated (CAD) cells, a mouse brain derived cell, are highly dynamic structures, and so we analyzed several aspects of the cytoskeleton to investigate the molecular causes of this phenomenon. Microtubules and microfilaments were present in proportions similar to those found in brain tissue and were distributed similarly to those in normal neurons in culture. Neurofilaments were also present. Analysis of tubulin isospecies originating from post‐translational modifications revealed an increased amount of tyrosinated tubulin, a diminished amount of the detyrosinated form and a lack of the Delta2 form. This tyrosination pattern is in agreement with highly dynamic microtubules. Using western blot analyses with specific antibodies, we found that CAD cells do not express several MAPs such as MAP1b, MAP2, Tau, doublecortin, and stable‐tubule‐only‐peptide. The presence of the genes corresponding to these MAPs was verified. The absence of the corresponding mRNAs confirmed the lack of expression of these proteins. The exception was Tau, whose mRNA was present. Among the several MAPs investigated, LIS1 was the only one to be expressed in CAD cells. In addition, we determined that neurites of CAD cells form and elongate at the same rate as processes in a primary culture of hippocampal neurons. Treatment with nocodazol precluded the formation of neurites, and induced the retraction of previously formed neurites. We conclude that the formation and elongation of neurites, at least in CAD cells, are dependent on microtubule integrity but not on their stabilization or the presence of MAPs.
De novo synthesis, uptake and proteolytic processing of lipocalin‐type prostaglandin D synthase, β‐trace, in the kidneys
Authors: Nagata Nanae , Fujimori Ko , Okazaki Issey , Oda Hiroshi , Eguchi Naomi , Uehara Yoshio , Urade Yoshihiro
Published: October 2009

Lipocalin‐type prostaglandin D synthase (L‐PGDS) is a multifunctional protein that produces prostaglandin D2 and binds and transports various lipophilic substances after secretion into various body fluids as β‐trace. L‐PGDS has been proposed to be a useful diagnostic marker for renal injury associated with diabetes or hypertension, because the urinary and plasma concentrations are increased in patients with these diseases. However, it remains unclear whether urinary L‐PGDS is synthesized de novo in the kidney or taken up from the blood circulation. In crude extracts of monkey kidney and human urine, we found L‐PGDS with its original N‐terminal sequence starting from Ala23 after the signal sequence, and also its N‐terminal‐truncated products starting from Gln31 and Phe34. In situ hybridization and immunohistochemical staining with monoclonal antibody 5C11, which recognized the amino‐terminal Ala23–Val28 loop of L‐PGDS, revealed that both the mRNA and the intact form of L‐PGDS were localized in the cells of Henle’s loop and the glomeruli of the kidney, indicating that L‐PGDS is synthesized de novo in these tissues. However, truncated forms of L‐PGDS were found in the lysosomes of tubular cells, as visualized by immunostaining with 10A5, another monoclonal antibody, which recognized the three‐turn α‐helix between Arg156 and Thr173. These results suggest that L‐PGDS is taken up by tubular cells and actively degraded within their lysosomes to produce the N‐terminal‐truncated form.

Structured digital abstract

MINT‐7266187: L‐PGDS (uniprotkb:P41222) and Cathepsin D (uniprotkb:Q4R4P0) colocalize (MI:0403) by fluorescence microscopy (MI:0416)

MINT‐7266176: L‐PGDS (uniprotkb:P41222) and Cathepsin B (uniprotkb:Q4R5M2) colocalize (MI:0403) by fluorescence microscopy (MI:0416)
Four divergent Arabidopsis ethylene‐responsive element‐binding factor domains bind to a target DNA motif with a universal CG step core recognition and different flanking bases preference
Authors: Yang Shuo , Wang Shichen , Liu Xiangguo , Yu Ying , Yue Lin , Wang Xiaoping , Hao Dongyun
Published: October 2009

The Arabidopsis ethylene‐responsive element‐binding factor (AtERF) family of transcription factors has ∼ 120 members, all of which possess a highly conserved ERF domain. AtERF1, AtERF4, AtEBP and CBF1 are members from different phylogenetic subgroups within the family. Electrophoretic mobility shift assay analyses revealed that the ERF domains of these four proteins were capable of binding specifically to either GCC or dehydration‐responsive element (DRE) motifs. In vitro and in vivo binding assays of the four AtERFs with the DRE motif showed that the recognition of the CG step was indispensable in all four of the specific binding reactions, implying that there may be a universal binding characteristic of various ERF domains binding to a given consensus (e.g. the DRE motif). In addition, the core DNA‐binding motifs preferred by the four AtERFs were identified, and all of these motifs contained a conserved CG step core. Thus, conserved recognition of the CG step may be the foundation of the formation of the stable complex by the ERF domain with the DRE motif, which is probably determined by the highly conserved residues presented in the DNA contact surface among the whole AtERF family members. The different preferences at flanking bases of individual ERF domains, which appear to be attributed to the subfamily‐ or subgroup‐specific residues, may be essential discrimination of the target binding motif from various similar sequences by divergent AtERF domains.
Treatment of Premature Ejaculation in the Asia-Pacific Region: Results from a Phase III Double-blind, Parallel-group Study of Dapoxetine
Authors: McMahon Chris , Kim Sae Woong , Park Nam Cheol , Chang Chin-pao , Rivas David , Tesfaye Fisseha , Rothman Margaret , Aquilina Joseph
Published: October 2009

Introduction

Dapoxetine is a short-acting selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor that was recently approved for the on-demand treatment of premature ejaculation (PE).

Aim

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of dapoxetine 30 mg and 60 mg on demand (prn) in men with PE from the Asia-Pacific region.

Methods

This randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, placebo-controlled trial enrolled men who were 18 years or older; in a monogamous, heterosexual relationship for at least 6 months; met the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fourth edition, text revision, criteria for PE for at least 6 months; and had an intravaginal ejaculatory latency time (IELT) of 2 minutes or less in at least 75% of sexual intercourse episodes. Subjects received placebo, dapoxetine 30 mg, or dapoxetine 60 mg prn (1–3 hours before intercourse) for 12 weeks.

Main Outcome Measures

Stopwatch-measured Average IELT, the Premature Ejaculation Profile (PEP), Clinical Global Impression (CGI) of change in PE, treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs).

Results

Of the 1,067 subjects randomized, 858 completed the study. Mean Average IELT increased from approximately 1.1 minutes at baseline (across groups) to 2.4, 3.9, and 4.2 minutes with placebo, dapoxetine 30 mg, and dapoxetine 60 mg, respectively, and geometric mean Average IELT increased from approximately 0.9 minutes at baseline (across groups) to 1.8, 2.7, and 3.1 minutes, respectively (fold-increases of 2.0, 2.8, and 3.3, respectively). All PEP measures and the CGI of change were significantly improved with dapoxetine vs. placebo at study endpoint (P ≤ 0.005 for all). The most common TEAEs with dapoxetine included nausea, dizziness, somnolence, headache, vomiting, diarrhea, and nasopharyngitis; TEAEs led to discontinuation in 0.3%, 1.7%, and 5.1% of subjects with placebo, dapoxetine 30 mg, and dapoxetine 60 mg, respectively.

Conclusions

Dapoxetine treatment significantly prolonged IELT and improved PEP measures and was generally well tolerated in men with PE in the Asia-Pacific region.
Morphological changes in the male accessory glands and testes in Vespula vulgaris (Hymenoptera, Vespidae) during sexual maturation
Authors: Moors Lien , Schoeters Eric , Coudron Kristien , Billen Johan
Published: October 2009

Abstract. The present study documents the pace of accessory gland and testes degeneration in the wasp Vespula vulgaris by means of a histological and metric approach, that has not been carried out for social wasps so far. To a certain extent, comparison is made with the degenerative processes of the mucus glands of the honeybee drone. In V. vulgaris, no generative tissue is left by the end of 9 d of age, and so degeneration is a fast process. The three different parts of the accessory glands (muscle layer, gland epithelium, and lumen) change with respect to age. The secretory cells of the epithelium reach their maximum activity during the first days of adult life, which results in a maximally filled gland lumen by 9 d. We also provide, for the first time, a histological study of testes degeneration for this species. At eclosion, well‐defined cystic structures are still visible, whereas at 9 d, it is no longer possible to distinguish different cystic structures. The diameter of the testes decreases with respect to age.
A non‐lethal method for estimation of gonad and pyloric caecum indices in sea stars
Authors: Sanford Eric , Wood Megan E. , Nielsen Karina J.
Published: October 2009

Abstract. Gonad and pyloric caecum indices are widely used indicators of reproductive effort and nutritional condition in asteroids. Current methods of quantification generally require sacrificing multiple animals and the resulting reduction in local sea star density could have an unintended impact on benthic communities. Using the intertidal sea star Pisaster ochraceus, we developed and tested a method for estimating organ indices through the non‐lethal sampling of single arms. Indices estimated via dissections of single arms accurately predicted the values obtained by sacrificing whole animals. In laboratory and field trials, we compared two methods of sampling single arms: (1) arm removal, and (2) organ extraction through an incision (without arm removal). Two years after these treatments, organs had regenerated in the affected arms of most sea stars, but were small relative to those in unmanipulated arms. The extent of organ recovery did not differ between the two treatments, but sea stars in the arm removal group were relocated in the field more frequently than those in the arm incision group. Our results suggest that sampling via the removal of single arms can be an effective, non‐lethal method for estimating gonad and pyloric caecum indices in asteroids.
SOLID LOSS DURING WATER ABSORPTION OF CHICKPEA (CICER ARIETINUM L.)
Authors: SAYAR SEDAT , TURHAN MAHİR , KÖKSEL HAMİT
Published: October 2009

Soluble solid leached out during soaking and cooking of food legumes generally decreases the overall quality of the final products. Solid loss behavior of whole chickpea during soaking and cooking in water was investigated at 20, 30, 50, 70, 85 and 100C. The amount of solid loss and its rate increased with increasing temperature, and the former was 2.3% at 20C and 10.2% at 100C at the end of the process. Carbohydrates and proteins composed of 80–91% of the solid lost. A zeroth‐order kinetic model fit the solid loss data. The solid loss rate constant (kds) increased with temperature, and it was 4.7 × 10−5/s at 20C and 240.3 × 10−5/s at 100C. Effect of temperature on kds was determined using an Arrhenius‐type equation. The Arrhenius plot exhibited two linear lines crossing at the gelatinization temperature (61C) of the whole chickpea. The activation energy was determined to be 59.5 and 22.6 kJ/g/mol above and below the gelatinization temperature, respectively.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Soaking and cooking are the two main steps during processing of chickpea. Soluble solid loss into the soaking or cooking water generally decreases the nutritional and economic value of the final product and it is one of the quality indicators of the dry, soaked and soaked/cooked legumes. In the current study, soluble solid loss from whole chickpea seeds during soaking and cooking in water were studied as a function of time and temperature. Results from the current study can be useful in designing the process parameters of soaking and cooking and for the evaluation of the quality of dry or processed whole chickpea.
CLARIFICATION AND GELATION OF A MINIMALLY HEATED ORANGE JUICE CONCENTRATE DURING ITS REFRIGERATED STORAGE
Authors: GÓMEZ JULIÁN ANDRÉS , TÁRREGA AMPARO , BAYARRI SARA , CARBONELL JOSE VICENTE
Published: October 2009

The refrigerated storage of orange concentrates low in pulp content could be an interesting procedure of preservation of concentrates not submitted to high temperature treatments. Orange concentrate of 42°Brix with low pulp content, treated at a very low temperature (60C for 15 s) to avoid microbial spoilage, was stored for 6 months at 3C. The losses of cloudiness during the storage were higher than that of the single strength juice also treated at 60C for 15 s. Gelation of concentrate was detected initially, being the storage modulus higher than the loss modulus at the end of the first month of storage. In any case, the degree of gelation observed after 6 months was far from the substandard quality, according to Florida Statutes. The clarification of this orange concentrate is the factor limiting of its shelf life. Consequently, experiences using heat treatments slightly higher must be planned to delay the loss of cloudiness.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Citrus juice industries use to store concentrates of different characteristics (color, °Brix/acid ratio) that are later blended in proper proportions to obtain final products with uniform characteristics. Refrigerated concentrates are easily handled but pectin methylesterase (PME) activity can damage them and, thus, frozen storage is preferred.

As PME is associated with cell walls, its activity should be reduced by removing part of the pulp. This paper analyzes the effect of the residual PME activity on colloidal stability of low pulp content concentrates measured by the losses of turbidity and the changes in rheological properties.
APPLYING OF NEURAL NETWORK ON THE WINE SENSORIAL ANALYSIS FROM BARBADOS CHERRY
Authors: SANTANA JOSÉ CARLOS CURVELO , DIAS CLEBER GUSTAVO , DE SOUZA ROBERTO RODRIGUES , TAMBOURGI ELIAS BASILE
Published: October 2009

This paper presents an approach of artificial neural networks to predict the sensorial qualities of wines. A Kohonen network has been used as a software tool in order to increase the human skills in this kind of application. An initial prototype was implemented using the artificial neural networks technology, together with the Visual Basic software from Microsoft, for evaluation of sensorial qualities of seven samples of Barbados cherry (Malpighia glabra L.) wine. Fifty consumers chosen, perhaps, had been used to obtain the sensorial data using a hedonic scale of 1–9 times. Sensorial values of flavor, aroma and appearance obtained of the hedonic dating were compared. The characteristics of wine, such as flavor and color, were similar to the Barbados cherry fresh fruit. The consumers evaluated the wines as very good; all sensorial qualities were more than 5 in hedonic scale. Results showed that Kohonen network classified the Barbados cherry wines in a distinct group, for frequency among their sensorial responses. Kohonen network results were similar or better than statistical classification; this shows that the use of Kohonen algorithm in the sensorial analysis of wines is valid. Kohonenalgorithm is very good in clustering of Barbados cherry wine samples, and its uses in sensorial analyses of wines is promising.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The results of this work have practical uses in fruit wine production of Barbados cherry and in sample selections by sensorial analysis. Thus, it shows the optimal conditions to produce the Barbados cherry wine, and the effects of fruit pulp mass and sugar content on the sensorial qualities of wines had been evaluated. A visual basic program had been elaborated, in this work, by Kohonen neural network algorithm, which will be a powerful tool for taking of decision in sensorial analyses of beverages, foods and too much products that use the sensorial methods to make the comparison between them.
De Moivre's Poisson Approximation to the Binomial
Authors: Bellhouse David R. , Davison Matt
Published: October 2009

In his first work on probability, written in 1711, Abraham De Moivre looked at the problem of finding the number of trials required in a binomial experiment to achieve a probability of 1/2 of finding at least some given number of successes. He looked at two cases: when the probability of success p = 1/2 and when p is small but n, the number of trials, is large. In the latter case, unlike other problems that he solved in probability, De Moivre never revealed his method of solution. We explore the solution that De Moivre originally suggests and find that his method does not work. We explore other numerical solutions and put forward the suggestion that De Moivre relied on a very cumbersome and tedious method of solution based on his earlier work on series in the 1690s. Since his method was neither quick nor mathematically elegant, he never revealed the method that he used to obtain his numerical solutions.
Water Resources Modeling of the Ganges‐Brahmaputra‐Meghna River Basins Using Satellite Remote Sensing Data1
Authors: Nishat Bushra , Rahman S.M. Mahbubur
Published: October 2009

Nishat, Bushra and S.M. Mahbubur Rahman, 2009. Water Resources Modeling of the Ganges‐Brahmaputra‐Meghna River Basins Using Satellite Remote Sensing Data. Journal of the American Water Resources Association (JAWRA) 45(6):1313‐1327.

Abstract:  Large‐scale water resources modeling can provide useful insights on future water availability scenarios for downstream nations in anticipation of proposed upstream water resources projects in large international river basins (IRBs). However, model set up can be challenging due to the large amounts of data requirement on both static states (soils, vegetation, topography, drainage network, etc.) and dynamic variables (rainfall, streamflow, soil moisture, evapotranspiration, etc.) over the basin from multiple nations and data collection agencies. Under such circumstances, satellite remote sensing provides a more pragmatic and convenient alternative because of the vantage of space and easy availability from a single data platform. In this paper, we demonstrate a modeling effort to set up a water resources management model, MIKE BASIN, over the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna (GBM) river basins. The model is set up with the objective of providing Bangladesh, the lowermost riparian nation in the GBM basins, a framework for assessing proposed water diversion scenarios in the upstream transboundary regions of India and deriving quantitative impacts on water availability. Using an array of satellite remote sensing data on topography, vegetation, and rainfall from the transboundary regions, we demonstrate that it is possible to calibrate MIKE BASIN to a satisfactory level and predict streamflow in the Ganges and Brahmaputra rivers at the entry points of Bangladesh at relevant scales of water resources management. Simulated runoff for the Ganges and Brahmaputra rivers follow the trends in the rated discharge for the calibration period. However, monthly flow volume differs from the actual rated flow by (−) 8% to (+) 20% in the Ganges basin, by (−) 15 to (+) 12% in the Brahmaputra basin, and by (−) 15 to (+) 19% in the Meghna basin. Our large‐scale modeling initiative is generic enough for other downstream nations in IRBs to adopt for their own modeling needs.
Groundwater Banking in Aquifers that Interact With Surface Water: Aquifer Response Functions and Double‐Entry Accounting1
Authors: Contor Bryce A.
Published: October 2009

Contor, Bryce A., 2009. Groundwater Banking in Aquifers That Interact With Surface Water: Aquifer Response Functions and Double‐Entry Accounting. Journal of the American Water Resources Association (JAWRA) 45(6):1465‐1474.

Abstract:  Increasing worldwide demands for water call for mechanisms to facilitate storage of seasonal supplies and mechanisms to facilitate reallocation of water. Markets are economically efficient reallocation and incentive mechanisms when market conditions prevail, but special hydrologic and administrative conditions of water use and allocation interfere with required market conditions. Water banking in general can bring market forces to bear on water storage and reallocation, improving economic efficiency and therefore the welfare of society as a whole. Groundwater banking can utilize advantages of aquifers as storage vessels with vast capacity, low construction cost, and protection of stored water. For groundwater banking in aquifers that interact with surface water, an accounting system is needed that addresses the depletion of stored volumes of water as water migrates to surface water. Constructing such a system requires integration of hydrologic, economic, and legal principles with principles of financial accounting. Simple mass‐balance accounting, even with allowances for depletion, is not adequate in these aquifers. Aquifer response functions are mathematical descriptions of the impact that aquifer pumping or recharge events have upon hydraulically connected surface water bodies. Double‐entry accounting is a financial accounting methodology for tracking asset inventories and ownership claims upon assets. The powerful innovation of linking aquifer response functions with double‐entry accounting technologies allows application of groundwater banking to aquifers where deposits can be depleted by migration to hydraulically connected surface water. It honors the hydrologic realities of groundwater/surface water interaction, the legal requirements of prior appropriation water law, and the economic requirements for equitable and efficient allocation of resources.
Living‐donor liver transplantation from second generation children for atomic bomb survivors
Authors: Eguchi Susumu , Takatsuki Mitsuhisa , Nakashima Masahiro , Kanematsu Takashi
Published: October 2009

No report has been available regarding organ transplantation for atomic bomb survivors, even with renal graft. We experienced a living‐donor liver transplantation for two atomic bomb survivors using grafts from second‐generation children. Post transplant course was uneventful without any systemic disorders under regular immunosuppression schema during 3‐year follow‐up. The detailed results are herein reported for the first time in the literature.
Effects of type of reactor, crystallinity of SiC, and NF3 gas pressure on etching rate and smoothness of SiC surface using NF3 gas plasma
Authors: Tasaka A. , Yamada H. , Nonoyama T. , Kanatani T. , Kotaka Y. , Tojo T. , Inaba M.
Published: October 2009

Polycrystalline β-SiC and single-crystalline 4H-SiC surfaces were etched by reactive ion etching (RIE) using NF3 gas plasma. A smooth surface was obtained on the polycrystalline SiC after RIE at NF3 gas pressures of 2 and 10 Pa for 10 min, and neither spikes nor pillars were formed on it. On the other hand, some pillars were formed on the single-crystalline SiC surface by RIE at NF3 gas pressures of 2 and 10 Pa. Though the absence of carbon-rich regions and SiOx on the outermost surface before etching was confirmed by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Raman analysis, x-ray diffraction analysis revealed that graphite crystallites were present in the single-crystalline SiC bulk. It was concluded that the graphite crystallites acted as masks and the pillars grew up from the graphite crystallites in the single crystalline SiC during RIE.
Improved Attribution of Climate Forcing to Emissions
Authors: Shindell Drew T. , Faluvegi Greg , Koch Dorothy M. , Schmidt Gavin A. , Unger Nadine , Bauer Susanne E.
Published: October 2009

All Together Now

Deciding how to change emissions of polluting gases that affect climate through their radiative forcing properties requires that the quantitative impact of these emissions be understood. Most past calculations of this type have considered only the radiative forcing of the specific emission and its atmospheric lifetime.

Shindell
et al.

(p.
716
; see the Perspectives by

Arneth
et al.

and by

Parrish and Zhu

) use sophisticated atmospheric chemical and climate modeling to determine how gas-aerosol interactions affect the radiative properties of the atmosphere, finding significant departures from the standard method for emissions of methane, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen oxides. These findings should help to optimize strategies for mitigating global warming by reducing anthropogenic emissions.
Quantifying the Impact of Immune Escape on Transmission Dynamics of Influenza
Authors: Park Andrew W. , Daly Janet M. , Lewis Nicola S. , Smith Derek J. , Wood James L. N. , Grenfell Bryan T.
Published: October 2009

Flu's Tricky Tricks

After vaccination against influenza A virus, single-point mutations are selected in hemagglutinin (the virus molecule that binds to sialic acid molecules on the surface of host cells) that escape neutralization by polyclonal antibody responses.

Hensley
et al.

(p.
734
) have discovered that in mice these mutations increased the virus's avidity for sialic acid. Amino acid substitutions that occur during reiterations of immune escape and avidity modulation can thus drive antigenic variation. This constant evolution of influenza viruses requires us to change vaccine components annually, and, for equine influenza,

Park
et al.

(p.
726
) show that as the match between virus and vaccine strains drifts apart with time, the probability of becoming infected and the length of the infectious period increase to the point where outbreaks occur. Nevertheless, even imperfect vaccines may be of benefit to a population because increasing the proportion of vaccinated individuals can supply enough herd immunity to offset a poor antigenic match, especially if used in conjunction with antiviral drugs. For humans,

Yang
et al.

(p.
729
, published online 10 September) estimate that the rate of transmission within U.S. households puts influenza A 2009 H1N1 (the current pandemic “swine flu”) in the higher range of transmissibility, compared to past seasonal and pandemic strains. Thus, to achieve mitigation this fall, children should be the first recipients of vaccine, followed by adults—aiming overall for 70% coverage of the population.
The Electronics Revolution: From E-Wonderland to E-Wasteland
Authors: Ogunseitan Oladele A. , Schoenung Julie M. , Saphores Jean-Daniel M. , Shapiro Andrew A.
Published: October 2009

Discarded electronics present serious threats to health and ecosystems, making e-waste regulations a policy priority.
Synergic Sedation of Sensitive Anions: Alkali-Mediated Zincation of Cyclic Ethers and Ethene
Authors: Kennedy Alan R. , Klett Jan , Mulvey Robert E. , Wright Dominic S.
Published: October 2009

Zinc-Based Bases

Conventional methods of stripping a proton from a hydrocarbon yield an alkali metal-coordinated carbanion as the preliminary product. In certain cases, however, this preliminary product falls apart before it can be used for further constructive synthetic purposes.

Kennedy
et al.

(p.
706
; see the Perspective by

Marek

) show that in such cases, zinc ions can act as potent stabilizers. Specifically, a bimetallic base incorporating both sodium and zinc ions was used to deprotonate the common cyclic ethers tetrahydrofuran and tetrahydropyran. Zinc coordination to the carbanion inhibited an otherwise rapid ring-opening decomposition pathway. Similarly, a zinc-potassium combination facilitated deprotonation of ethylene to a stabilized product.
Intergenerational Wealth Transmission and the Dynamics of Inequality in Small-Scale Societies
Authors: Mulder Monique Borgerhoff , Bowles Samuel , Hertz Tom , Bell Adrian , Beise Jan , Clark Greg , Fazzio Ila , Gurven Michael , Hill Kim , Hooper Paul L. , Irons William , Kaplan Hillard , Leonetti Donna , Low Bobbi , Marlowe Frank , McElreath Richard , Naidu Suresh , Nolin David , Piraino Patrizio , Quinlan Rob , Schniter Eric , Sear Rebecca , Shenk Mary , Smith Eric Alden , von Rueden Christopher , Wiessner Polly
Published: October 2009

Origins of Egalitarianism

Wealthy contemporary societies exhibit varying extents of economic inequality, with the Nordic countries being relatively egalitarian, whereas there is a much larger gap between top and bottom in the United States.

Borgerhoff Mulder
et al.

(p.
682
; see the Perspective by

Acemoglu and Robinson

) build a bare-bones model describing the intergenerational transmission of three different types of wealth—based on social networks, land and livestock, and physical and cognitive capacity—in four types of small-scale societies in which livelihoods depended primarily on hunting, herding, farming, or horticulture. Parameter estimates from a large-scale analysis of historical and ethnographic data were added to the model to reveal that the four types of societies display distinctive patterns of wealth transmission and that these patterns are associated with different extents of inequality.
10-GHz Self-Referenced Optical Frequency Comb
Authors: Bartels Albrecht , Heinecke Dirk , Diddams Scott A.
Published: October 2009

A laser that emits lines every 10 gigahertz can be used for frequency calibration in spectroscopy.
The Unit of Life
How We Live and Why We Die
The Secret Lives of Cells

by Lewis Wolpert

Norton, New York, 2009. 252 pp. $24.95. ISBN 9780393072211. Faber and Faber, London. £14.99. ISBN 9780571239115.
Authors: Pickersgill Helen
Published: October 2009

Drawing from 30 years of amiable correspondence with his high school calculus teacher, Strogatz demonstrates the joys to be found in doing mathematics.
The Basics of Zinc Activation
Authors: Marek Ilan
Published: October 2009

The stubborn carbon-hydrogen bonds of an organic compound can be replaced by more reactive carbon-zinc bonds.