bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gene expression profiles of vitrified in vitro‐ and in vivo‐derived bovine blastocysts
Authors: Aksu Digdem Aktoprakligil , Agca Cansu , Aksu Soner , Bagis Haydar , Akkoc Tolga , Caputcu Arzu Tas , Arat Sezen , Taskin Ali Cihan , Kizil Sedat H. , Karasahin Tahir , Akyol Numan , Satilmis Muharrem , Sagirkaya Hakan , Ustuner Burcu , Nur Zekeriya , Agca Yuksel
Published: July 2012

Vitrification is becoming a preferred method for pre‐implantation embryo cryopreservation. The objective of this study was to determine the differentially expressed genes of in vivo‐ and in vitro‐produced bovine embryos after vitrification. In vitro‐ (IVF) and in vivo‐derived (IVV) bovine blastocysts were identified as follows: in vitro‐produced fresh (IVF‐F), in vitro‐produced vitrified (IVF‐V), in vivo‐derived fresh (IVV‐F), in vivo‐derived vitrified (IVV‐V). The microarray results showed that 53 genes were differentially regulated between IVF and IVV, and 121 genes were differentially regulated between fresh and vitrified blastocysts (P < 0.05). There were 6, 268, 962, and 17 differentially regulated genes between IVF‐F × IVV‐F, IVF‐V × IVV‐V, IVF‐F × IVF‐V, and IVV‐F × IVV‐V, respectively (P < 0.05). While gene expression was significantly different between fresh and vitrified IVF blastocysts (P < 0.05), it was similar between fresh and vitrified IVV blastocysts. Significantly up‐regulated KEGG pathways included ribosome, oxidative phosphorylation, spliceosome, and oocyte meiosis in the fresh IVF blastocyst samples, while sphingolipid and purine metabolisms were up‐regulated in the vitrified IVF blastocyst. The results showed that in vitro bovine blastocyst production protocols used in this study caused no major gene expression differences compared to those of in vivo‐produced blastocysts. After vitrification, however, in vitro‐produced blastocysts showed major gene expression differences compared to in vivo blastocysts. This study suggests that in vitro‐produced embryos are of comparable quality to their in vivo counterparts. Vitrification of in vitro blastocysts, on the other hand, causes significant up‐regulation of genes that are involved in stress responses. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 79: 613–625, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A full‐discontinuous Galerkin formulation of nonlinear Kirchhoff–Love shells: elasto‐plastic finite deformations, parallel computation, and fracture applications
Authors: Becker G. , Noels L.
Published: July 2012

Because of its ability to take into account discontinuities, the discontinuous Galerkin (DG) method presents some advantages for modeling cracks initiation and propagation. This concept has been recently applied to three‐dimensional simulations and to elastic thin bodies. In this last case, the assumption of small elastic deformations before cracks initiation or propagation reduces drastically the applicability of the framework to a reduced number of materials.

To remove this limitation, a full‐DG formulation of nonlinear Kirchhoff–Love shells is presented and is used in combination with an elasto‐plastic finite deformations model. The results obtained by this new formulation are in agreement with other continuum elasto‐plastic shell formulations.

Then, this full‐DG formulation of Kirchhoff–Love shells is coupled with the cohesive zone model to perform thin body fracture simulations. As this method considers elasto‐plastic constitutive laws in combination with the cohesive model, accurate results compared with the experiments are found. In particular, the crack path and propagation rate of a blasted cylinder are shown to match experimental results. One of the main advantages of this framework is its ability to run in parallel with a high speed‐up factor, allowing the simulation of ultra fine meshes. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A new hole insertion method for level set based structural topology optimization
Authors: Dunning Peter D. , Alicia Kim H.
Published: July 2012

Structural shape and topology optimization using level set functions is becoming increasingly popular. However, traditional methods do not naturally allow for new hole creation and solutions can be dependent on the initial design. Various methods have been proposed that enable new hole insertion; however, the link between hole insertion and boundary optimization can be unclear. The new method presented in this paper utilizes a secondary level set function that represents a pseudo third dimension in two‐dimensional problems to facilitate new hole insertion. The update of the secondary function is connected to the primary level set function forming a meaningful link between boundary optimization and hole creation. The performance of the method is investigated to identify suitable parameters that produce good solutions for a range of problems. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reconnaissance and Autonomy for Small Robots (RASR) team: MAGIC 2010 challenge
Authors: Lacaze Alberto , Murphy Karl , Del Giorno Mark , Corley Katrina
Published: July 2012

The Reconnaissance and Autonomy for Small Robots (RASR) team developed a system for the coordination of groups of unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) that can execute a variety of militarily relevant missions in dynamic urban environments. Historically, UGV operations have been primarily performed via teleoperation, requiring at least one dedicated operator per robot, and requiring substantial real‐time bandwidth to accomplish those missions. Our team goal for entering the MAGIC 2010 competition was to develop a system that can provide practical long‐term value to the war‐fighter. To that end, we self‐imposed a set of constraints that would force us to develop technology that could readily be used by the military in the near term:

Use a relevant (deployed) platform

Use low‐cost, reliable sensors

Develop an expandable and modular control system with innovative software algorithms to minimize the computing footprint required

Minimize required communications bandwidth and handle communication losses

Minimize additional power requirements to maximize battery life and mission duration

© 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Quantitative characterization of chemical degradation of heat‐treated wood surfaces during artificial weathering using XPS
Authors: Kocaefe Duygu , Huang Xianai , Kocaefe Yasar , Boluk Yaman
Published: July 2012

The X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) study of three heat‐treated North American wood species (jack pine, birch and aspen) was carried out to evaluate chemical modifications occurring on the wood surface during artificial weathering for different times. The results suggest that the weathering reduces lignin content (aromatic rings) at the surface of heat‐treated wood, consequently, the carbohydrates content increases. This results in surfaces richer in cellulose and poorer in lignin. Heat‐treated wood surfaces become acidic due to weathering, and the acidity increases as the weathering time increases. Three possible reasons are given to account for the increase of acidity during weathering. The lignin content increases, whereas the hemicelluloses content decrease due to heat treatment. Heat‐treated woods have lower acidity to basicity ratios than the corresponding untreated woods for all three species because of the decrease in carboxylic acid functions mainly present in hemicelluloses. The wood composition changes induced by weathering are more significant compared to those induced by heat treatment at wood surface. Exposure to higher temperatures causes more degradation of hemicelluloses, and this characteristic is maintained during weathering. However, the wood direction has more effect on chemical composition modification during weathering compared to that of heat treatment temperature. The heat‐treated jack pine is affected most by weathering followed by heat‐treated aspen and birch. This is related to differences in content and structure of lignin of softwood and hardwood. The use of XPS technique has proved to be a reliable method for wood surface studies. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Robust Vocabulary Instruction In A Readers' Workshop
Authors: Feezell Greg
Published: July 2012

This article presents strategies for integrating explicit vocabulary instruction within a reading workshop. The author begins by describing a process for involving students in word selection. The author then provides a weeklong instructional sequence using student‐selected words. Finally, the author briefly examines the role of vocabulary instruction within the framework of workshop‐based teaching.
The human mitochondrial transcriptome and the RNA‐binding proteins that regulate its expression
Authors: Rackham Oliver , Mercer Timothy R. , Filipovska Aleksandra
Published: July 2012

The human mitochondrial transcriptome, although produced from a small and compact genome, has revealed surprising complexity in its composition and regulation. Wide variation between individual tRNAs, mRNAs, and rRNAs indicate the importance of post‐transcriptional processing, maturation, and degradation mechanisms in the regulation of mitochondrial gene expression. RNA‐binding proteins play essential roles in controlling the mitochondrial transcriptome from its synthesis to its destruction and have evolved unique features to complement the unusual features of mitochondrial RNAs. Recent studies have shown how changes in mitochondrial RNAs and their binding proteins can have significant effects on human health. This opens new avenues for investigation of mitochondrial RNA‐binding proteins and the mechanisms by which they regulate mitochondrial gene expression. WIREs RNA 2012 doi: 10.1002/wrna.1128

This article is categorized under:

RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein–RNA Interactions: Functional Implications

RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease

RNA Methods > RNA Analyses In Vitro and In Silico

RNA Methods > RNA Analyses in Cells
Privacy, Confidentiality, and Health Research
Authors: Lowrance William W.
Published: July 2012

The potential of the e-health revolution, increased data sharing, database linking, biobanks and new techniques such as geolocation and genomics to advance human health is immense. For the full potential to be realized, though, privacy and confidentiality will have to be dealt with carefully. Problematically, many conventional approaches to such pivotal matters as consent, identifiability, and safeguarding and security are inadequate. In many places, research is impeded by an overgrown thicket of laws, regulations, guidance and governance. The challenges are being heightened by the increasing use of biospecimens, and by the globalization of research in a world that has not globalized privacy protection. Drawing on examples from many developed countries and legal jurisdictions, the book critiques the issues, summarizes various ethics, policy, and legal positions (and revisions underway), describes innovative solutions, provides extensive references and suggests ways forward.
A Portion of the Journal Kept by Thomas Raikes, Esq., from 1831–1847
Authors: Raikes Thomas
Published: July 2012

Diarist Thomas Raikes (1777–1848) was an Old Etonian whose social world included some of the most influential people of his day. Raikes was no politician - he had an established reputation as a 'dandy' - and he spent much of his time in gentlemen's clubs in London, especially the Carlton and White's. He was ostensibly employed by his father, a merchant and later governor of the Bank of England, and was married with four children. His reputation as a man about town was confirmed by the posthumous publication of these diary extracts, in four volumes from 1856 to 1857; they focus on his time abroad, mostly in Paris. Volume 3 starts in mid-1836 in Paris and covers the period until autumn 1839, during which Raikes both comments on political upheaval in Britain and travels through France, Prussia and Italy, observing European society and politics.
A 2-year-old child with coronary sinus diverticulum and Wolff–Parkinson–White syndrome
Authors: Veloor Haridas P. , Lokhandwala Yash
Published: July 2012

A 2-year-old child having Wolff–Parkinson–White syndrome presented with recurrent drug-refractory tachycardia episodes. On electrophysiological analysis, a coronary sinus diverticulum was discovered. The accessory pathway was successfully eliminated by radiofrequency ablation within the diverticulum.
Three-dimensional transthoracic echocardiographic assessment of supramitral ring in a young child
Authors: Séguéla Pierre-Emmanuel , Léobon Bertrand , Acar Philippe
Published: July 2012

Three-dimensional echocardiography is an increasingly used method to accurately depict congenital heart disease in children. We report the case of a 2-month-old girl with supramitral ring. Three-dimensional echocardiography allowed perfect visualisation of the fibrous shelf before surgery.
Art exhibit focuses on African astronomy
Authors: Showstack Randy
Published: July 2012

Connections between Africans and astronomy are the focus of a new exhibition in the National Museum of African Art in Washington, D. C. “African Cosmos: Stellar Arts,” which includes artwork, cultural items, and scientific displays from ancient to contemporary times, is the first major exhibit “that brings together arts and science focused on Africa's contribution to keen observations of the heavens over time,” curator Christine Mullen Kreamer said at a 20 June news briefing. Among the exhibit's nearly 100 objects are an ancient Egyptian mummy board that includes a representation of the sky goddess Nut, sculptures by the Dogon people of Mali depicting figures in relation to the cosmos, a video that uses data from two square degrees of the Hubble Space Telescope Cosmic Evolution Survey, and a nearly floor‐to‐ceiling “Rainbow Serpent” constructed of plastic containers by Benin artist Hazoume. An untitled acrylic painting (Figure 1) by South African Gavin Jantjes evokes a myth of the Khoi San people of southern Africa, as it portrays a girl throwing evening fire embers into the night sky, where they remained as the Milky Way.
On the Edgeworth‐Kuiper Belt dust flux to Saturn
Authors: Poppe Andrew R. , Horányi Mihály
Published: July 2012

Dust grains originating from the Edgeworth‐Kuiper Belt (EKB) are believed to be the dominant species of dust in the outer solar system. These grains, evolving inward from the EKB under the influence of a variety of forces, will encounter the giant planets or their ring and moon systems. At Saturn, this influx drives several physical processes including the generation of tenuous dusty exospheres and rings, the spatial and compositional evolution of Saturn's main planetary ring system, and the generation of ionospheric and neutral gas layers in the atmospheres of Saturn and Titan. Recent comparisons between in‐situ dust density measurements in the outer solar system and a dynamical dust grain tracing model have placed experimental limits on the mass production rate and power‐law exponent of EKB‐generated grains. Using this model and the experimental constraints, we make predictions for the influx of micron‐sized, EKB‐generated grains into the saturnian system, where the Cosmic Dust Analyzer onboard the Cassini mission is currently making measurements of both endogenous and exogenous dust populations.
Glucocorticoids induce CCN5/WISP-2 expression and attenuate invasion in oestrogen receptor-negative human breast cancer cells
Authors: Ferrand Nathalie , Stragier Emilien , Redeuilh Gérard , Sabbah Michèle
Published: July 2012

CCN5 (cysteine-rich 61/connective tissue growth factor/nephroblastoma overexpressed 5)/WISP-2 [WNT1 (wingless-type MMTV integration site family, member 1)-inducible signalling pathway protein 2] is an oestrogen-regulated member of the CCN family. CCN5 is a transcriptional repressor of genes associated with the EMT (epithelial–mesenchymal transition) and plays an important role in maintenance of the differentiated phenotype in ER (oestrogen receptor)-positive breast cancer cells. In contrast, CCN5 is undetectable in more aggressive ER-negative breast cancer cells. We now report that CCN5 is induced in ER-negative breast cancer cells such as MDA-MB-231 following glucocorticoid exposure, due to interaction of the endogenous glucocorticoid receptor with a functional glucocorticoid-response element in the CCN5 gene promoter. Glucocorticoid treatment of MDA-MB-231 cells is accompanied by morphological alterations, decreased invasiveness and attenuated expression of mesenchymal markers, including vimentin, cadherin 11 and ZEB1 (zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 1). Interestingly, glucocorticoid exposure did not increase CCN5 expression in ER-positive breast cancer cells, but rather down-regulated ER expression, thereby attenuating oestrogen pathway signalling. Taken together, our results indicate that glucocorticoid treatment of ER-negative breast cancer cells induces high levels of CCN5 expression and is accompanied by the appearance of a more differentiated and less invasive epithelial phenotype. These findings propose a novel therapeutic strategy for high-risk breast cancer patients.
Webcam Delivery of the Camperdown Program for Adolescents Who Stutter: A Phase I Trial
Authors: Carey Brenda , O’Brian Sue , Onslow Mark , Packman Ann , Menzies Ross
Published: July 2012

Purpose

This Phase I clinical trial explored the viability of webcam Internet delivery of the Camperdown Program for adolescents who stutter.

Method and Procedure

Participants were 3 adolescents ages 13, 15, and 16 years, with moderate-severe stuttering. Each was treated with the Camperdown Program delivered by webcam with no clinic attendance. Primary outcome measures were percentage of syllables stuttered and number of treatment sessions to maintenance. Secondary outcome measures were speech naturalness, situation avoidance, self-reported stuttering severity, and parent and adolescent satisfaction. Data were collected pre treatment and at 1 day, 6 months, and 12 months post entry to maintenance.

Results

Participants entered maintenance after means of 18 sessions and 11 clinician hours. Group mean reduction of stuttering from pre treatment to entry to maintenance was 83%, from pre treatment to 6 months post entry to maintenance was 93%, and from pre treatment to 12 months post entry to maintenance was 74%. Self-reported stuttering severity ratings confirmed these results. Post entry to maintenance speech naturalness for participants fell within the range of that of 3 matched controls. However, avoidance of speech situations showed no corresponding improvements for 2 of the participants.

Conclusion

The service delivery model was efficacious and efficient. All of the participants and their parents also found it appealing. Results justify a Phase II trial of the delivery model.
Noise Hampers Children’s Expressive Word Learning
Authors: Riley Kristine Grohne , McGregor Karla K.
Published: July 2012

Purpose

To determine the effects of noise and speech style on word learning in typically developing school-age children.

Method

Thirty-one participants ages 9;0 (years;months) to 10;11 attempted to learn 2 sets of 8 novel words and their referents. They heard all of the words 13 times each within meaningful narrative discourse. Signal-to-noise ratio (noise vs. quiet) and speech style (plain vs. clear) were manipulated such that half of the children heard the new words in broadband white noise and half heard them in quiet; within those conditions, each child heard one set of words produced in a plain speech style and another set in a clear speech style.

Results

Children who were trained in quiet learned to produce the word forms more accurately than those who were trained in noise. Clear speech resulted in more accurate word form productions than plain speech, whether the children had learned in noise or quiet. Learning from clear speech in noise and plain speech in quiet produced comparable results.

Conclusion

Noise limits expressive vocabulary growth in children, reducing the quality of word form representation in the lexicon. Clear speech input can aid expressive vocabulary growth in children, even in noisy environments.
≃10 eV ionization shift in Ir Kα2 from a near-coincident Lu K-edge
Authors: Pereira N. R. , Weber B. V. , Phipps D. , Schumer J. W. , Seely J. F. , Carroll J. J. , VanHoy J. R. , Słabkowska K. , Polasik M.
Published: July 2012

Close to an x-ray filter's K-edge the transmission depends strongly on the photon energy. For a few atom pairs, the K-edge of one is only a few tens of eV higher than a K-line energy of another, so that a small change in the line's energy becomes a measurable change in intensity behind such a matching filter. Lutetium's K-edge is ≃27 eV above iridium's Kα2 line, ≃63.287 keV for cold Ir. A Lu filter reduces this line's intensity by ≃10 % when it is emitted by a plasma, indicating an ionization shift \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\begin{document}$\Delta {\cal E} \simeq 10\pm 1$\end{document}ΔE≃10±1 eV.
Magnetic diagnostic suite of the C-2 field-reversed configuration experiment confinement vessel
Authors: Thompson M. C. , Douglass J. D. , Feng P. , Knapp K. , Luo Y. , Mendoza R. , Patel V. , Tuszewski M. , Van Drie A. D.
Published: July 2012

Magnetic measurements are a fundamental part of determining the size and shape of field-reversed configuration (FRC) plasmas in the C-2 device. The magnetic probe suite consists of 44 in-vessel and ex-vessel probes constructed using various technologies: ultra-high vacuum compatible mineral-insulated cable, nested triple axis coils hand-wound on ceramic bobbins, and commercial chip inductors mounted on printed circuit boards. Together, these probes measure the three-dimensional excluded flux profile of the FRC, which approximates the shape of the separatrix between the confined plasma volume and the scrape-off layer. High accuracy is achieved by using the extensive probe measurements to compensate for non-ideal effects such as flux leakage through the vacuum vessel and bulk motion of the FRC towards the wall. A subset of the probes is also used as a set of Mirnov arrays that provide sensitive detection of perturbations and oscillations of the FRC.
Plasmonic terahertz detector response at high intensities
Authors: Gutin A. , Kachorovskii V. , Muraviev A. , Shur M.
Published: July 2012

Recent work on plasmonic terahertz detection using field effect transistors (FETs) has yielded detectors with high responsivity. Therefore, deviation from small signal mode of operation, when the detector signal is simply proportional to the THz intensity, must be considered. This work presents a new analytical model to predict terahertz response in a FET at arbitrary intensity levels. The proposed analytical model was experimentally validated using a 0.13 μm InGaAs high electron mobility transistor and optically pumped CO2 gas laser operating at 1.63 THz of varying output intensities. The model is suitable for implementation in circuit simulators and might be used for device optimization and THz circuit design.
Thermally excited vortical flow in a thin bidirectionally oriented nematic cell
Authors: Zakharov A. V. , Vakulenko A. A.
Published: July 2012

The theoretical description of the reorientational dynamics in a thin bidirectionally aligned liquid crystal cell (BALC), where the nematic sample is confined by two horizontal and two lateral surfaces, under the influence of a temperature gradient ∇T is presented. We have carried out a numerical study of the system of hydrodynamic equations including director reorientation, fluid flow  v, and the temperature redistribution across the BALC cell under the influence of ∇T, when the sample is heated both from below and from above. Calculations show that, due to interaction between the gradient of the director field \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\begin{document}$\nabla {\hat{\hbox{\bf n}}}$\end{document}∇n̂ and ∇T, the BALC sample settles down to a stationary bi-vortical flow regime. As for a nematogenic material, we have considered the BALC cell to be occupied by 4 − n − pentyl − 4′ − cyanobiphenyl, and investigated the effect of both \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\begin{document}$\nabla {\hat{\hbox{\bf n}}}$\end{document}∇n̂ and ∇T on the magnitude and direction of  v, for a number of hydrodynamic regimes.
Magnetoelectric coupling in nanocrystalline Pb0.82La0.18TiO3
Authors: Ju Lin , Hu Jifan , Sun Li , Zhao Minglei , Zhang Yongjia , Qin Hongwei , Mei Liangmo
Published: July 2012

The combined effect of Pb vacancies and La dopant can induce ferromagnetism below 75 K for Pb0.82La0.18TiO3 plates annealed at 700,1000, and 1200 °C for 1 h. Pb0.82La0.18TiO3 plates annealed at 1000 °C for 1 h show the coexistence of ferromagnetism resulting from oxygen vacancies at/near surfaces of nanograins and ferroelectricity near room temperature. Under application of magnetic field, the dielectric constant decreases and the ferroelectric transition temperature shifts to high temperature for Pb0.82La0.18TiO3 multiferroic plates. In addition, the electric field treatment leads to an enormous enhancement of saturation magnetization for Pb0.82La0.18TiO3 multiferroic plates, showing a strong magnetoelectric coupling.
Ion mass spectrometry investigations of the discharge during reactive high power pulsed and direct current magnetron sputtering of carbon in Ar and Ar/N2
Authors: Schmidt S. , Czigány Zs. , Greczynski G. , Jensen J. , Hultman L.
Published: July 2012

Ion mass spectrometry was used to investigate discharges formed during high power impulse magnetron sputtering (HiPIMS) and direct current magnetron sputtering (DCMS) of a graphite target in Ar and Ar/N2 ambient. Ion energy distribution functions (IEDFs) were recorded in time-averaged and time-resolved mode for Ar+, C+, N2+, N+, and CxNy+ ions. An increase of N2 in the sputter gas (keeping the deposition pressure, pulse width, pulse frequency, and pulse energy constant) results for the HiPIMS discharge in a significant increase in C+, N+, and CN+ ion energies. Ar+, N2+, and C2N+ ion energies, in turn, did not considerably vary with the changes in working gas composition. The HiPIMS process showed higher ion energies and fluxes, particularly for C+ ions, compared to DCMS. The time evolution of the plasma species was analyzed for HiPIMS and revealed the sequential arrival of working gas ions, ions ejected from the target, and later during the pulse-on time molecular ions, in particular CN+ and C2N+. The formation of fullerene-like structured CNx thin films for both modes of magnetron sputtering is explained by ion mass-spectrometry results and demonstrated by transmission electron microscopy as well as diffraction.
Radiofrequency transmission line for bioluminescent Vibrio sp. irradiation
Authors: Nassisi V. , Alifano P. , Talà A. , Velardi L.
Published: July 2012

We present the study and the analyses of a transmission line for radiofrequency (RF) irradiation of bacteria belonging to Vibrio harveyi-related strain PS1, a bioluminescent bacterium living in symbiosis with many marine organisms. The bioluminescence represents a new biologic indicator which is useful for studying the behaviour of living samples in the presence of RF waves due to the modern communication systems. A suitable transmission line, used as an irradiating cell and tested up to the maximum frequency used by the global system for mobile communications and universal mobile telecommunications system transmissions, was characterized. In this experiment, the RF voltage applied to the transmission line was 1 V. Due to short dimensions of the line and the applied high frequencies, standing waves were produced in addition to progressing waves and the electric field strength varies particularly along the longitudinal direction. The magnetic field map was not strongly linked to the electric one due to the presence of standing waves and of the outgoing irradiation. RF fields were measured by two homemade suitable probes able to diagnostic fields of high frequency. The field measurements were performed without any specimens inside the line. Being our sample made of living matter, the real field was modified and its value was estimated by a simulation code. The bioluminescence experiments were performed only at 900 MHz for two different measured electric fields, 53 and 140 V/m. The light emission was measured right from the beginning and after 7 and 25 h. Under RF irradiation, we found that the bioluminescence activity decreased. Compared with the control sample, the diminution was 6.8% and 44% after 7 and 25 h of irradiation, respectively, both with the low or high field. No changes of the survival factor for all the samples were observed. Besides, to understand the emission processes, we operated the deconvolution of the spectra by two Gaussian curves. The Gaussian peaks were approximately centered at 460 nm and 490 nm. The 490 nm peak was higher than the control one. Under RF, the 490 nm peak decreased compared to the 460 nm one. The decreasing was stronger for the sample in the higher field. The ratio of the emission area of the 490 nm to 460 nm was 5 for the control sample. It decreased up to 1.6 for the samples under RF. The bioluminescence improves the DNA repair by photoreactivation, and there is evidence that photolyase is preferentially activated by blue/violet light. Our finding suggests that RF exposure may stimulate DNA repair by shifting the emission spectra from blue/green (490 nm) to blue/violet (460 nm).
Enhancement of spin injection from ferromagnet to graphene with a Cu interfacial layer
Authors: Zhang Chi , Wang Ying , Wu Baolei , Wu Yihong
Published: July 2012

We present an enhancement in spin injection from ferromagnet to multilayer graphene through the introduction of a thin Cu interfacial layer at the metal-graphene interface. A nonlocal magnetoresistance of 286 mΩ and a corresponding spin-injection efficiency of 2.46% have been obtained which are among the highest values reported so far for metal-contacted graphene spin-valve devices. The enhancement of spin-injection is attributed to a non-ohmic contact between Cu and graphene, as revealed by the temperature-dependent I-V and differential conductance measurements.
Electrostatic capacitance in single and double layer organic diodes
Authors: Liu Feilong , Ruden P. Paul , Campbell Ian. H. , Smith Darryl L.
Published: July 2012

The electrostatic capacitance-voltage characteristics of single and double layer organic diodes are explored by numerical simulation and theoretical analysis. For single layer devices, the capacitance in the high voltage limit is approximately 3/2 times the geometric capacitance C0 for unipolar carrier injection or ambipolar injection with high recombination rates, and 4/πC0 for symmetric ambipolar injection with low recombination rates. For double layer devices, the capacitance is determined by the relative charge distribution at the contacts, in the bulk region of the two layers, and at their interface. The charge distribution is affected by the injection barrier height and by exciplex-controlled interface recombination.
Energy levels of titanium, Ti I through Ti XXII
Authors: Corliss Charles , Sugar Jack
Published: July 2012

The energy levels of the titanium atom in all of its stages of ionization, as derived from the analyses of atomic spectra, have been critically compiled. In cases where only line classifications are reported in the literature, level values have been derived. Term designations, experimental g-values, and ionization energies are included. Calculated percentages of the two leading components of eigenvectors of the levels are given.
Effects of brown and turbid water on piscivore–prey fish interactions along a visibility gradient
Authors: RANÅKER LYNN , JÖNSSON MIKAEL , NILSSON P. ANDERS , BRÖNMARK CHRISTER
Published: July 2012

1. Environmental changes such as eutrophication and increasing inputs of humic matter (brownification) may have strong effects on predator–prey interactions in lakes through a reduction in the visual conditions affecting foraging behaviour of visually oriented predators.

2. In this experiment, we studied the effects of visual range (25–200 cm) in combination with optically deteriorating treatments (algae, clay or brown humic water) on predator–prey interactions between pike (Esox lucius) and roach (Rutilus rutilus). We measured effects on reaction distance and strike distance for pike and escape distance for roach, when pike individuals were exposed to free‐swimming roach as well as to roach held in a glass cylinder.

3. We found that reaction distance decreased with decreasing visual range caused by increasing levels of algae, clay or humic matter. The effect of reaction distance was stronger in turbid water (clay, algae) than in the brown water treatment.

4. Strike distance was neither affected by visual range nor by optical treatment, but we found shorter strike distances when pike attacked roach using visual cues only (roach held in a cylinder) compared to when pike could use multiple senses (free‐swimming roach). Escape distance for roach was longer in turbid than in brown water treatments.

5. Changes in environmental drivers, such as eutrophication and brownification, affecting the optical climate should thus have consequences for the strength of predator–prey interactions through changes in piscivore foraging efficiency and prey escape behaviour. This in turn may affect lake ecosystems through higher‐order interactions.
Review of ethnic disparities in access to renal transplantation
Authors: Joshi Shivam , J. Gaynor Jeffrey , Ciancio Gaetano
Published: July 2012

Renal transplantation is the gold standard treatment for patients with end‐stage renal disease and is associated with several advantages over dialysis, including increased quality of life, reduced morbidity and mortality, and lower healthcare costs. Barring the constraints of a limited organ supply, the goals of the patient care should focus on attaining renal transplantation while minimizing, or even eliminating, time spent on dialysis. Disparities in access to renal transplantation between African Americans and Caucasians have been extensively documented, with African Americans having significantly poorer access. There is a growing corpus of literature examining the determinants of reduced access among other racial ethnic minority groups, including Hispanics. These determinants include patient and physician preference, socioeconomic status, insurance type, patient education, and immunologic factors. We review these determinants in access to renal transplantation in the United States among all races and ethnicities.
Transient enhancement of inhibition following visual cortical lesions in the mouse superior colliculus
Authors: Kaneda Katsuyuki , Yanagawa Yuchio , Isa Tadashi
Published: July 2012

Numerous studies have investigated the effects of lesions of the primary visual cortex (V1) on visual responses in neurons of the superficial layer of the superior colliculus (sSC), which receives visual information from both the retina and V1. However, little is known about the changes in the local circuit dynamics of the sSC after receiving V1 lesions. Here, we show that surround inhibition of sSC neurons is transiently enhanced following V1 lesions in mice and that this enhancement may be attributed to alterations in the balance between excitatory and inhibitory inputs to sSC neurons. Extracellular recordings in vivo revealed that sSC neuronal responses to large visual stimuli were transiently reduced at about 1 week after visual cortical lesions compared with normal mice and that this reduction was partially recovered at about 1 month after the lesions. By using whole‐cell patch‐clamp recordings from sSC neurons in slice preparations obtained from mice that had received visual cortical lesions at 1 week prior to the recordings, we found cell type‐dependent changes in the balance between excitation and inhibition. In non‐GABAergic cells, inhibition predominated over excitation, whereas the excitation–inhibition balance did not change in GABAergic neurons. These results suggest that enhanced inhibition may be partially responsible for the reduced responses to large visual stimuli in some sSC neurons. Thus, we propose that the enhanced surround inhibition shortly after visual cortical lesions may prevent hyperexcitability in the sSC local circuit, contributing to reconstructing the finely tuned receptive field organization of sSC neurons after the visual cortical lesions.
Anorectal function after partial intersphincteric resection in ultra‐low rectal cancer
Authors: Gong X. , Jin Z. , Zheng Q.
Published: July 2012

Aim  To investigate the feasibility and efficacy of intersphincteric resection (ISR), in terms of postoperative anorectal function, for ultra‐low rectal cancer in mainland China.

Method  A total of 43 patients who consecutively underwent curative partial ISR for ultra‐low rectal cancer between 2006 and 2009 were enrolled in the study. Defaecatory function was assessed, using detailed questionnaires, 3, 6 and 12 months after surgery. The Wexner score was used to assess faecal continence, and anal manometry studies were performed to analyse anal sphincter function.

Results  Overall defaecatory function was assessed as being satisfactory in 41 of 43 patients. Twelve months after surgery, the mean Wexner score was 4.0 ± 3.6. Anal manometry studies showed a significant change at 3 months and further, gradual, improvement over the following year. During the postoperative period, maximum squeeze pressure reached a normal value of 174.1 ± 19.5 mmHg (P = 0.041) by 6 months and resting pressure was 42.4 ± 5.6 mmHg by 12 months, which was close to the preoperative level (P = 0.038).

Conclusion  Because of the satisfactory recovery of defaecatory function and good oncological results, partial ISR may be recommended as an effective sphincter‐preserving operation for patients with ultra‐low rectal cancer.
HOLDING FAST: THE PERSISTENCE AND DOMINANCE OF GENDER STEREOTYPES
Authors: GROSSMAN PHILIP J.
Published: July 2012

This paper investigates the persistence of gender stereotyping in the forecasting of risk attitudes. Subjects predict the gamble choice of target subjects in one of two treatments. First, based only on visual clues and then based on visual clues plus two responses by the target from a risk‐preference survey. Second in reverse order: first, based only on the two responses, then on the two responses plus visual clues. In isolation the gender stereotype and survey responses both inform predictions about others' risk attitudes. In conjunction with one another, however, the stereotype persists and dominates the survey response information. (JEL C91, D8, J16)
Couple‐based interventions for psychopathology
Authors: Baucom Donald H , Whisman Mark A , Paprocki Christine
Published: July 2012

Relationship functioning and psychopathology are strongly associated with one another. In this article we provide a selective review of the literature on relationship discord and the presence, incidence and individual‐based treatment of psychiatric disorders. We then present a model for conceptualizing couple‐based interventions with couples in which one partner has a psychiatric disorder, distinguishing between partner‐assisted interventions, disorder‐specific interventions and couple therapy interventions. Finally, we provide examples of how to employ these interventions with several psychiatric disorders (obsessive‐compulsive disorder, anorexia nervosa and depression) and selectively review the efficacy of couple‐based interventions in the treatment of psychopathology.
A putative functional vomeronasal system in anuran tadpoles
Authors: Jungblut Lucas David , Pozzi Andrea Gabriela , Paz Dante Agustín
Published: July 2012

We investigated the occurrence and anatomy of the vomeronasal system (VNS) in tadpoles of 13 different anuran species. All of the species possessed a morphologically fully developed VNS with a highly conserved anatomical organisation. We found that a bean‐shaped vomeronasal organ (VNO) developed early in the tadpoles, during the final embryonic stages, and was located in the anteromedial nasal region. Histology revealed the presence of bipolar chemosensory neurones in the VNO that were immunoreactive for the Gαo protein. Tract‐tracing experiments demonstrated that chemosensory neurones from the VNO reach specific areas in the brain, where a discernible accessory olfactory bulb (AOB) could be observed. The AOB was located in the ventrolateral side of the anterior telencephalon, somewhat caudal to the main olfactory bulb. Synaptophysin‐like immunodetection revealed that synaptic contacts between VNO and AOB are established during early larval stages. Moreover, using lectin staining, we identified glomerular structures in the AOB in most of the species that we examined. According to our findings, a significant maturation in the VNS is achieved in anuran larvae. Recent published evidence strongly suggests that the VNS appeared early in vertebrate evolution and was already present in the aquatic last common ancestor of lungfish and tetrapods. In this context, tadpoles may be a good model in which to investigate the anatomical, biochemical and functional aspects of the VNS in an aquatic environment.
Rictor regulates phosphorylation of the novel protein kinase C Apl II in Aplysia sensory neurons
Authors: Labban Margaret , Dyer John R. , Sossin Wayne S.
Published: July 2012

J. Neurochem. (2012) 122, 1108–1117.

Rapamycin‐insensitive companion of TOR (Rictor) is a conserved component of target of rapamycin complex 2 (TORC2), a complex implicated in phosphorylation of a number of signal transduction‐related kinases, including protein kinase Cs (PKCs) at their ‘hydrophobic’ site in the carboxy‐terminal extension domain. In the marine mollusk, Aplysia californica, an increase in phosphorylation of the novel PKC, Apl II, at the hydrophobic site is associated with a protein synthesis‐dependent increase in synaptic strength seen after continuous application of serotonin. To determine if Rictor plays a role in this increase, we cloned the Aplysia ortholog of Rictor (ApRictor). An siRNA‐mediated decrease in ApRictor levels in Aplysia sensory neurons led to a decrease in the phosphorylation of PKC Apl II at the hydrophobic site suggesting a role for ApRictor in hydrophobic site phosphorylation. However, over‐expression of ApRictor was not sufficient to increase phosphorylation of PKC Apl II. Continuous application of serotonin increased phosphorylation of PKC Apl II at the hydrophobic site in cultured sensory neurons, and this was blocked by Torin, which inhibits both TORC1 and TORC2. Over‐expression of ApRictor did not lead to change in the magnitude of serotonin‐mediated phosphorylation, but did lead to a small increase in the membrane localization of phosphorylated PKC Apl II. In conclusion, these studies implicate Rictor in phosphorylation of a novel PKC during synaptic plasticity and suggest an additional role for Rictor in regulating the localization of PKCs.
Taxonomic review of Spiladarcha Meyrick (Lepidoptera: Urodoidea: Urodidae) with a new species from Venezuela
Authors: SOHN Jae‐Cheon
Published: July 2012

Spiladarcha adamskii sp. nov. is described from Venezuela and is compared to S. derelicta, the type species of the genus. Spiladarcha is characterized by the features of male genitalia, which have not been known previously for the genus. Spiladarcha are distinguished from its sister genus Wockia in having raised scales of small black spots along the upper surface of the forewing veins, a pair of setal zones on the apical part of the tegumen in the male genitalia, and a linguiform antrum and a zone of longitudinal pleats on the ductus bursae in the female genitalia.
Reaction Mechanisms in Al2O3/CuO Infiltration by Liquid Al
Authors: Guedes M. , Ferreira J. M. F. , Ferro A. C.
Published: July 2012

This work studies reactive mechanisms involved in liquid Al infiltration of green preforms containing tailored amounts of Al2O3 and CuO. Infiltration reactions involving Al and copper oxides are expected to produce Al2O3, as fine particulate reinforcements, and Cu, as Al‐matrix strengthener. Preforms with 75 mol%‐CuO were infiltrated with Al at 1000°C and 1100°C in air. Under low PO2, copper oxides are reduced to Cu, blocking the opportunity for reactive infiltration. Also, the Al‐Cu/Al2O3 contact angle is insufficiently low to drive spontaneous infiltration. At 1000°C, infiltration is incipient, indicating that CuO reaction with Al is not sufficiently vigorous to destabilize enveloping Al2O3. At 1100°C, CuO reduces to Cu2O and infiltration is triggered, although the process is incomplete due to formation of a compact Al2O3 layer which inhibits metal supply to the reaction front. At or behind the halted infiltration front consumption of starting Al2O3 particles and formation of CuAlO2 occur. The space among these phases is occupied by a Cu‐rich matrix, rendering an almost totally densified microstructure. This study shows that liquid Al infiltration of Al2O3/CuO greens is possible at 1100°C, in air, due to destabilization of the Al2O3 enveloping film and reactive infiltration, promoted by the redox reaction between Al and copper oxide.
Corrosion Behavior of SiC Laminate Under Decomposed Sulfuric Acid at 850°C
Authors: Badini Claudio , de Haan Fredericus , Celasco Edvige , Hähner Peter , Vega Bolivar Claudia M. , Biamino Sara , Pavese Matteo , Fino Paolo
Published: July 2012

In view of the possible application of SiC‐based ceramic laminates as critical components of hydrogen generation plants based on sulfur‐iodine or hybrid‐sulfur thermochemical cycles, the effect of corrosion on this kind of ceramics has been investigated. For this purpose, the material was exposed for 1000 h at 850°C to the corrosive action of a gaseous atmosphere simulating the environment of a sulfur‐based thermochemical hydrogen generation plant (a gaseous mixture containing several aggressive species: O2, H2O, SO2, SO3, and H2SO4, with relative concentrations representative of the inlet of an SO3 decomposer reactor). Specimens of multilayer SiC were prepared according to the following processing path: tape casting of a SiC‐based slurry, building of the green multilayer by stacking 11 sheets, final de‐binding and sintering treatments. The material microstructure and its flexural strength and modulus were studied before and after corrosion to investigate degradation phenomena. The microstructure was investigated by XRD, SEM‐EDS, XPS, and density measurements. Flexural strength and modulus were measured by four‐point bending test. The corrosive atmosphere displayed an oxidizing effect that resulted in the formation of silica, oxycarbides, and gaseous products of carbon oxidation. Nevertheless, the corrosion was hindered by the formation on the sample surface of a passivating silica layer. Bending strength and modulus were found unchanged or even improved after corrosion.