bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential Proteomic Analysis of Anthers between Cytoplasmic Male Sterile and Maintainer Lines in Capsicum annuum L.
Authors: Wu Zhiming , Cheng Jiaowen , Qin Cheng , Hu Zhiqun , Yin Caixia , Hu Kailin
Published: November 2013

Cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS), widely used in the production of hybrid seeds, is a maternally inherited trait resulting in a failure to produce functional pollen. In order to identify some specific proteins associated with CMS in pepper, two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) was applied to proteomic analysis of anthers/buds between a CMS line (designated NA3) and its maintainer (designated NB3) in Capsicum annuum L. Thirty-three spots showed more than 1.5-fold in either CMS or its maintainer. Based on mass spectrometry, 27 spots representing 23 distinct proteins in these 33 spots were identified. Proteins down-regulated in CMS anthers/buds includes ATP synthase D chain, formate dehydrogenase, alpha-mannosidas, RuBisCO large subunit-binding protein subunit beta, chloroplast manganese stabilizing protein-II, glutathione S-transferase, adenosine kinase isoform 1T-like protein, putative DNA repair protein RAD23-4, putative caffeoyl-CoA 3-O-methyltransferase, glutamine synthetase (GS), annexin Cap32, glutelin, allene oxide cyclase, etc. In CMS anthers/buds, polyphenol oxidase, ATP synthase subunit beta, and actin are up-regulated. It was predicted that male sterility in NA3 might be related to energy metabolism turbulence, excessive ethylene synthesis, and suffocation of starch synthesis. The present study lays a foundation for future investigations of gene functions associated with pollen development and cytoplasmic male sterility, and explores the molecular mechanism of CMS in pepper.
Nano-Nutrition of Chicken Embryos. The Effect of in Ovo Administration of Diamond Nanoparticles and l-Glutamine on Molecular Responses in Chicken Embryo Pectoral Muscles
Authors: Grodzik Marta , Sawosz Filip , Sawosz Ewa , Hotowy Anna , Wierzbicki Mateusz , Kutwin Marta , Jaworski Sławomir , Chwalibog André
Published: November 2013

It has been demonstrated that the content of certain amino acids in eggs is not sufficient to fully support embryonic development. One possibility to supply the embryo with extra nutrients and energy is in ovo administration of nutrients. Nanoparticles of diamond are highly biocompatible non-toxic carbonic structures, and we hypothesized that bio-complexes of diamond nanoparticles with l-glutamine may affect molecular responses in breast muscle. The objective of the investigation was to evaluate the effect of diamond nanoparticle (ND) and l-glutamine (Gln) on expression of growth and differentiation factors of chicken embryo pectoral muscles. ND, Gln, and Gln/ND solutions (50 mg/L) were injected into fertilized broiler chicken eggs at the beginning of embryogenesis. Muscle tissue was dissected at day 20 of incubation and analysed for gene expression of FGF2, VEGF-A, and MyoD1. ND and especially Gln/ND up-regulated expression of genes related to muscle cell proliferation (FGF2) and differentiation (MyoD1). Furthermore, the ratio between FGF2 and MyoD1 was highest in the Gln/ND group. At the end of embryogenesis, Gln/ND enhanced both proliferation and differentiation of pectoral muscle cells and differentiation dominated over proliferation. These preliminary results suggest that the bio-complex of glutamine and diamond nanoparticles may accelerate growth and maturation of muscle cells.
Antibacterial Activity of Glucomoringin Bioactivated with Myrosinase against Two Important Pathogens Affecting the Health of Long-Term Patients in Hospitals
Authors: Galuppo Maria , Nicola Gina , Iori Renato , Dell'Utri Pia , Bramanti Placido , Mazzon Emanuela
Published: November 2013

Glucosinolates (GLs) are natural compounds present in species of the order Brassicales and precursors of bioactive isothiocyanates (ITCs). In the recent years, they have been studied mainly for their chemopreventive as well as novel chemotherapeutics properties. Among them 4-(α-L-rhamnosyloxy)benzyl glucosinolate (glucomoringin; GMG), purified from seeds of Moringa oleifera Lam., a plant belonging to the Moringaceae family, represents an uncommon member of the GL family with peculiar characteristics. This short communication reports new evidences about the properties of GMG and presents a new innovative utilization of the molecule. The bioactivation of GMG by myrosinase enzyme just before treatment, permits to maximize the power of the final product of the reaction, which is the 4-(α-L-rhamnosyloxy)benzyl isothiocyanate (GMG-ITC). We tested the antibiotic activity of this latter compound on two strains of pathogens affecting the health of patients in hospital, namely Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus casseliflavus, and on the yeast Candida albicans. Results show that the sensibility of S. aureus BAA-977 strain and E. casseliflavus to GMG-ITC treatment reveals an important possible application of this molecule in the clinical care of patients, more and more often resistant to traditional therapies.
Modulation of the Microenvironment Surrounding the Active Site of Penicillin G Acylase Immobilized on Acrylic Carriers Improves the Enzymatic Synthesis of Cephalosporins
Authors: Bonomi Paolo , Bavaro Teodora , Serra Immacolata , Tagliani Auro , Terreni Marco , Ubiali Daniela
Published: November 2013

The catalytic properties of penicillin G acylase (PGA) from Escherichia coli in kinetically controlled synthesis of β-lactam antibiotics are negatively affected upon immobilization on hydrophobic acrylic carriers. Two strategies have been here pursued to improve the synthetic performance of PGA immobilized on epoxy-activated acrylic carriers. First, an aldehyde-based spacer was inserted on the carrier surface by glutaraldehyde activation (immobilization yield = 50%). The resulting 3-fold higher synthesis/hydrolysis ratio (vs/vh1 = 9.7 ± 0.7 and 10.9 ± 0.7 for Eupergit® C and Sepabeads® EC-EP, respectively) with respect to the unmodified support (vs/vh1 = 3.3 ± 0.4) was ascribed to a facilitated diffusion of substrates and products as a result of the increased distance between the enzyme and the carrier surface. A second series of catalysts was prepared by direct immobilization of PGA on epoxy-activated acrylic carriers (Eupergit® C), followed by quenching of oxiranes not involved in the binding with the protein with different nucleophiles (amino acids, amines, amino alcohols, thiols and amino thiols). In most cases, this derivatization increased the synthesis/hydrolysis ratio with respect to the non derivatized carrier. Particularly, post-immobilization treatment with cysteine resulted in about 2.5-fold higher vs/vh1 compared to the untreated biocatalyst, although the immobilization yield decreased from 70% (untreated Eupergit® C) to 20%. Glutaraldehyde- and cysteine-treated Eupergit® C catalyzed the synthesis of cefazolin in 88% (±0.9) and 87% (±1.6) conversion, respectively, whereas untreated Eupergit® C afforded this antibiotic in 79% (±1.2) conversion.
Dairy Foods and Dairy Protein Consumption Is Inversely Related to Markers of Adiposity in Obese Men and Women
Authors: Murphy Karen , Crichton Georgina , Dyer Kathryn , Coates Alison , Pettman Tahna , Milte Catherine , Thorp Alicia , Berry Narelle , Buckley Jonathan , Noakes Manny , Howe Peter
Published: November 2013

A number of intervention studies have reported that the prevalence of obesity may be in part inversely related to dairy food consumption while others report no association. We sought to examine relationships between energy, protein and calcium consumption from dairy foods (milk, yoghurt, cheese, dairy spreads, ice-cream) and adiposity including body mass index (BMI), waist (WC) and hip circumference (HC), and direct measures of body composition using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (% body fat and abdominal fat) in an opportunistic sample of 720 overweight/obese Australian men and women. Mean (SD) age, weight and BMI of the population were 51 ± 10 year, 94 ± 18 kg and 32.4 ± 5.7 kg/m2, respectively. Reduced fat milk was the most commonly consumed dairy product (235 ± 200 g/day), followed by whole milk (63 ± 128 g/day) and yoghurt (53 ± 66 g/day). Overall dairy food consumption (g/day) was inversely associated with BMI, % body fat and WC (all p < 0.05). Dairy protein and dairy calcium (g/day) were both inversely associated with all adiposity measures (all p < 0.05). Yoghurt consumption (g/day) was inversely associated with % body fat, abdominal fat, WC and HC (all p < 0.05), while reduced fat milk consumption was inversely associated with BMI, WC, HC and % body fat (all p < 0.05). Within a sample of obese adults, consumption of dairy products, dairy protein, and calcium was associated with more favourable body composition.
Live Coral Cover Index Testing and Application with Hyperspectral Airborne Image Data
Authors: Joyce Karen , Phinn Stuart , Roelfsema Chris
Published: November 2013

Coral reefs are complex, heterogeneous environments where it is common for the features of interest to be smaller than the spatial dimensions of imaging sensors. While the coverage of live coral at any point in time is a critical environmental management issue, image pixels may represent mixed proportions of coverage. In order to address this, we describe the development, application, and testing of a spectral index for mapping live coral cover using CASI-2 airborne hyperspectral high spatial resolution imagery of Heron Reef, Australia. Field surveys were conducted in areas of varying depth to quantify live coral cover. Image statistics were extracted from co-registered imagery in the form of reflectance, derivatives, and band ratios. Each of the spectral transforms was assessed for their correlation with live coral cover, determining that the second derivative around 564 nm was the most sensitive to live coral cover variations(r2 = 0.63). Extensive field survey was used to transform relative to absolute coral cover, which was then applied to produce a live coral cover map of Heron Reef. We present the live coral cover index as a simple and viable means to estimate the amount of live coral over potentially thousands of km2 and in clear-water reefs.
Similarities and dissimilarities between poems and song lyrics
Authors: Odendaal Bernardus J.
Published: November 2013

Developments around the Afrikaans ‘songs for listening’ in the late 1970s and early 1980s, when the term gained prominence in the art of song, initiated a ‘rapprochement’ between the Afrikaans poetry and song systems which put the differentiating characteristics of poems and song lyrics, previously considered to be clearly distinguishable, in question. The consequent need for reflection on the existence, or not, of fundamental differences between the two text types inspired the research for this article (a critical study of relevant local and international sources; an application of findings to examples of Afrikaans songs and poetry). Firstly, emphasis is placed on the shared history and the continued relationship between the two genres. The difference in intended mediums of presentation – oral performance versus print edition – is identified as the most fundamental distinction between song texts and poetry. The prominent utilisation of visual-figurative prosodic elements in poetry, that is, next to the rythmic-sonic elements which it has in common with song texts, was subsequently found to be a decisive distinction, particularly since the era of high modernism with its treasure of free verse. This entails a development corresponding to what mediologist Debray described as a cultural shift from the logospheric to the graphospheric era. Finally, mention is made of how the dynamic growth of the electronic media in the current videospheric era yielded new problematical distinctions between lyrics and poetry. The scope of this article, however, does not allow further investigation regarding the latter.
Optimal invasive key-hole neurosurgery with a miniaturized 3D chip on the tip: Microendoscopic device
Authors: Charalampaki Patra , Igressa Alhadi , Mahvash Mehran , Pechlivanis Ioannis , Schick Bernhard
Published: November 2013

Objective: The goal of the performed study was to evaluate the possibility of a three-dimensional endoscope to become a combined microscope-endoscope device in one. We analyzed the ergonomy of the device, the implementation into the surgical workflow, the image quality, and the future perspectives such devices could have for the next generation of neurosurgeons. Materials and Methods: Within 6 months, 22 patients (10 male, 12 female, 20-65 age) underwent surgery in neuroaxis using the new 3D-microendoscope (ME). The new 3D-ME has (a) the ability to visualize the surgical field from out- to inside with all advantages offered by a microscope, and in the same moment, (b) its design is like a small diameter endoscope that allows stereoscopic views extracorporal, intracorporal, and panoramic "para-side" of the lesion. Results: In general, transcranial 3D-"microendoscopy" was performed in all patients with high-resolution 3D quality. No severe complications were observed intra- or postoperatively. With the addition of depth perception, the anatomic structures were well seen and observed. Conclusion: The 3D-microendoscopy is a very promising surgical concept associated with new technological developments. The surgeon is able to switch to a modern visualization instrument reaching the most optimal surgical approach without compromising safety, effectiveness, and visual information.
Armoured brain of unknown etiology
Authors: Goyal Puneet , Singh Daljit , Singh Hukum , Dubey Jaya , Tandon Monica
Published: November 2013

Armoured brain is a rare condition where dense calcification occurs over the brain. It can result in mass effect and raised intracranial pressure. Most often, it happens due to trauma, subdural effusion, infection, or after VP shunt. There is controversy in its treatment. Most published literature does not support removing the calcification. We describe a rare case of idiopathic chronic calcified subdural hematoma with relatively short history which was successfully treated by microsurgical removal of calcification over the brain. This resulted in complete expansion of the brain with relief in symptoms.
Time of Emergence of trends in ocean biogeochemistry
Authors: Keller K. M. , Joos F. , Raible C. C.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. For the detection of climate change, not only the magnitude of a trend signal is of significance. An essential issue is the time period required by the trend to be detectable in the first place. An illustrative measure for this is Time of Emergence (ToE), i.e., the point in time when a signal finally emerges from the background noise of natural variability. We investigate the ToE of trend signals in different biogeochemical and physical surface variables utilizing a multi-model ensemble comprising simulations of 17 ESMs. We find that signals in ocean biogeochemical variables emerge on much shorter timescales than the physical variable sea surface temperature (SST). The ToE patterns of pCO2 and pH are spatially very similar to DIC, yet the trends emerge much faster – after roughly 12 yr for the majority of the global ocean area, compared to between 10–30 yr for DIC and 45–90 yr for SST. In general, the background noise is of higher importance in determining ToE than the strength of the trend signal. In areas with high natural variability, even strong trends both in the physical climate and carbon cycle system are masked by variability over decadal timescales. In contrast to the trend, natural variability is affected by the seasonal cycle. This has important implications for observations, since it implies that intra-annual variability could question the representativeness of irregularly seasonal sampled measurements for the entire year and, thus, the interpretation of observed trends.
Steady and Transient Flow Analysis of a Magnetically Levitated Pediatric VAD: Time Varying Boundary Conditions
Authors: Throckmorton Amy L. , Tahir Sharjeel A. , Lopes Sydnee P. , Rangus Owen M. , Sciolino Michael G.
Published: November 2013

A magnetically levitated impeller within a pediatric ventricular assist device operates under highly transient flow conditions. In this study, computational analyses were performed to investigate the hydraulic performance and fluid forces on the impeller under the steady and dynamic flow conditions, including: 1) time-varying boundary conditions (TVBC) considering a pulsed pump flow rate and pulsed left ventricular pressure; 2) transient rotational sliding interfaces (TRSI) to capture virtual blade rotation. Under steady flow conditions, the pressure generation for 0.5-6 l/min over 6000-10000 rpm was 20-140 mmHg; experimental validation agreed to within 6-27%. Under transient flow conditions, the outflow pressure of the pump increased with higher inlet pressure during the TVBC simulation. During TVBC, the pressure rise across the pump decreased as a function of higher flow rates and increased as a function of lower flow rates. The radial fluid forces varied directly with the flow rate by demonstrating larger forces at higher flow rates. For TRSI simulations, pressure fluctuations due the blade passage frequency were found to have 12 peaks per revolution, having magnitude ranges of 0.7 and 1.0 mmHg for 8 000 and 10 000 rpm, respectively. At 8 000 rpm, the fluid forces ranged from 1.15-1.17 N (axial) and 0.02-0.11 N (radial). Transient simulations model implant scenarios more realistically and provide critical information about the fluid conditions in the pump.
Justicia transicional y los significados de la elaboración del pasado nicaragüense
Authors: Oettler Anika
Published: November 2013

En el discurso global sobre justicia transicional, Nicaragua es tratada como un caso divergente porque el imperativo ético de justicia y reconciliación no fue tomado en cuenta después de la derrota electoral sandinista de 1990. Partiendo del debate semántico sobre la idea de la ‘superación del pasado’, el artículo contrasta las dos transiciones nicaragüenses (1979 y 1990), identificando los factores que influyeron en la aplicación u omisión de medidas de justicia transicional. La justicia transicional revolucionaria, después del triunfo de 1979, fue caracterizada por el establecimiento de Tribunales Especiales que sirvieron para castigar a los miles de somocistas, sobrepoblando los centros de detención. En el marco de la segunda transición –la derrota electoral sandinista de 1990– no se aplicaron medidas de justicia transicional. En ambos casos, la política de pacificación se caracterizó por el enfoque en el desarme de los combatientes y por la ausencia de la víctima. Más allá del concepto de justicia transicional, el artículo hace hincapié en el reto de una elaboración hegeliana del pasado mediante la cual las lecciones históricas podrían ser transmitidas a las generaciones futuras.
Repensando el significado y desafíos de la investigación en la sociedad de la información: una experiencia personal (2009-2012)
Authors: Idiáquez José
Published: November 2013

En febrero de 2009 inicié una investigación sobre migración indígena en la zona fronteriza entre Panamá y Costa Rica (Paso Canoa). Se trata de la movilización de veinte mil indígenas de la etnia ngäbe, que cada año se trasladan a cortar café en territorio costarricense. Representan el 59.3% de los pueblos indígenas de Panamá. Veinte y nueve mil setenta y tres niños y niñas indígenas están insertos en el mercado laboral. El 100% de la niñez indígena de entre cinco y nueve años, de ambos sexos, participa en las actividades agrícolas. Un 94.3% tiene edades entre 10 a 14 años y el 68.8% es el grupo de catorce a diecisiete años. La población ngäbe total es de aproximadamente trescientos mil habitantes, y viven en la comarca ciento treinta y nueve mil novecientos cincuenta indígenas. Según datos de 2008 del Ministerio de Economía y Finanzas de Panamá, en las regiones indígenas se encuentran los niveles más altos de pobreza 98.5% y pobreza extrema 89.7%. La existencia de grandes yacimientos de cobre y oro en la comarca sigue siendo un peligro para los recursos
Comentario al libro “En búsqueda de esperanza: migración ngäbe en Costa Rica y su impacto en la juventud”, de José Alberto Idiáquez, S.J.
Authors: Fonseca Karina
Published: November 2013

La más reciente investigación del antropólogo jesuita José Alberto Idiáquez, con la colaboración del jesuita especialista en cultura Ngäbe, Jorge Sarsaneda del Cid es un estudio de más de tres años, que se propone como un valioso aporte para los trabajos que emprenden las obras de la Compañía en Centroamérica, especialmente en Costa Rica y Panamá. “En búsqueda de esperanza” (Taller Gráficos Universidad Centroamericana, El Salvador, 2013) ofrece un balance sobre la historia reciente y la realidad socio-política y económica de Panamá, poniendo de manifiesto cómo la estructuración de dicha sociedad incide en las diferentes manifestaciones de exclusion que ha sufrido el pueblo indígena Ngäbe, obligándolo a enfrentar, cada año, la experiencia migratoria hacia Costa Rica.
Comentario al libro “Reflexiones sobre Economía desde Nicaragua”, de Rómulo Sánchez
Authors: Bastidas Benjamin
Published: November 2013

El profesor Dr. Rómulo Sánchez aborda en su libro “Reflexiones sobre Economía desde Nicaragua” una selección de temas clave relacionados con la globalización. En los siete grandes capítulos de su libro se recorren los rasgos principales de la globalización o mundialización de la economía. Los títulos de los apartados y subapartados son plenamente sugerentes.
Angry Birds Mathematics: Parabolas and Vectors
Authors: Lamb John H.
Published: November 2013

Vector properties and the birds' frictionless environment help students understand the mathematics behind the game.
Alan Cunningham’s Cryptic Publications
Authors: Orchard Anthony E.
Published: November 2013

It has been asserted that the botanist/explorer Allan Cunningham (1791–1839) published very little. It is shown that, on the contrary, in the five years while he resided at Strand-on-the-Green (1831–1836) he was remarkably productive, although a large number of his publications were cryptic, buried in the works of others, particularly those of W.J.Hooker (Curtis’s Botanical Magazine) and J.Lindley (Edwards’s Botanical Register). The events leading to these cryptic publications are described, and an Appendix listing his publications (7 major, and 57 "cryptic" ones) is presented.
Drifter motion in the Gulf of Mexico constrained by altimetric Lagrangian coherent structures
Authors: Olascoaga M. J. , Beron‐Vera F. J. , Haller G. , Triñanes J. , Iskandarani M. , Coelho E. F. , Haus B. K. , Huntley H. S. , Jacobs G. , Kirwan A. D. , Lipphardt B. L. , Özgökmen T. M. , H. M. Reniers A. J. , Valle‐Levinson A.
Published: November 2013

Application of recent geometric tools for Lagrangian coherent structures (LCS) shows that material attraction in geostrophic velocities derived from altimetry data imposed an important constraint to the motion of drifters from the Grand Lagrangian Deployment (GLAD) in the Gulf of Mexico. This material attraction is largely transparent to traditional Eulerian analysis. Attracting LCS acted as approximate centerpieces for mesoscale patterns formed by the drifters. Persistently attracting LCS cores emerged 1 week before the development of a filament resembling the “tiger tail” of the Deepwater Horizon oil slick, thereby anticipating its formation. Our results suggest that the mesoscale circulation plays a significant role in shaping near‐surface transport in the Gulf of Mexico.
Regional climate response to land surface changes after harvest in the North China Plain under present and possible future climate conditions
Authors: Cho Mee‐Hyun , Boo Kyung‐On , Lee Johan , Cho Chunho , Lim Gyu‐Ho
Published: November 2013

In this study, we investigated the impacts of land use alterations from harvesting practices on the regional surface climate over the North China Plain. The surface climate responses after harvest in June in regions where double‐cropping is practiced were evaluated using observations and model simulations with the global climate model HadGEM2‐Atmosphere. Responses were modeled under both present and possible future climate conditions. In the model, double‐cropping was represented using the monthly varying fraction of vegetation. This contributed to an improvement in the model simulation over East Asia. Modeling results showed that the land surface was warmer and drier after harvest, and these simulation results were consistent with observations. The bare soil surface after harvest in June had biophysical impacts on the surface climate that were mediated by decreasing evapotranspiration and latent heat flux effects, which increased surface air temperatures and decreased surface humidity. An increase in shortwave radiation also contributed to the rise in temperatures. Under two Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP) scenarios for possible future climate conditions, land conversion induced additional warming in addition to greenhouse gases induced global warming. The RCP 8.5 and RCP 2.6 scenarios demonstrated a warming of 1.0°C and 1.4°C due to harvesting practices in June, respectively. The response magnitude was affected by the climate conditions in each RCP. Our results suggest that potential impacts of harvest on the local climate need to be considered in future projections of CO2‐induced warming on a regional scale.
Drivers of increased organic carbon concentrations in stream water following forest disturbance: Separating effects of changes in flow pathways and soil warming
Authors: Schelker J. , Grabs T. , Bishop K. , Laudon H.
Published: November 2013

Forest disturbance such as clear‐cutting has been identified as an important factor for increasing dissolved organic carbon (DOC) concentrations in boreal streams. We used a long‐term data set of soil temperature, soil moisture, shallow groundwater (GW) levels, and stream DOC concentrations from three boreal first‐order streams to investigate mechanisms causing these increases. Clear‐cutting was found to alter soil conditions with warmer and wetter soils during summer. The application of a riparian flow concentration integration model (RIM) explained a major part of variation in stream [DOC] arising from changing flow pathways in riparian soils during the pretreatment period (r2 = 0.4–0.7), but less well after the harvest. Model residuals were sensitive to changes in soil temperature. The linear regression models for the temperature dependence of [DOC] in soils were not different in the disturbed and undisturbed catchments, whereas a nonlinear response to soil moisture was found. Overall these results suggest that the increased DOC mobilization after forest disturbance is caused by (i) increased GW levels leading to increased water fluxes in shallow flow path in riparian soils and (ii) increased soil temperature increasing the DOC availability in soils during summer. These relationships indicate that the mechanisms of DOC mobilization after forest disturbance are not different to those of undisturbed catchments, but that catchment soils respond to the higher hydro‐climatic variation observed after clear‐cutting. This highlights the sensitivity of boreal streams to changes in the energy and water balance, which may be altered as a result of both land management and climate change.
Effects of seasonal variation of photosynthetic capacity on the carbon fluxes of a temperate deciduous forest
Authors: Medvigy David , Jeong Su‐Jong , Clark Kenneth L. , Skowronski Nicholas S. , Schäfer Karina V. R.
Published: November 2013

Seasonal variation in photosynthetic capacity is an important part of the overall seasonal variability of temperate deciduous forests. However, it has only recently been introduced in a few terrestrial biosphere models, and many models still do not include it. The biases that result from this omission are not well understood. In this study, we use the Ecosystem Demography 2 model to simulate an oak‐dominated stand in the New Jersey Pine Barrens. Two alternative model configurations are presented, one with seasonal variation of photosynthetic capacity (SPC‐ON) and one without seasonal variation of photosynthetic capacity (SPC‐OFF). Under typical climate conditions, the two configurations simulate values of monthly gross primary productivity (GPP) as different as 0.05 kg C m−2 month−1 in the early summer and 0.04 kg C m−2 month−1 in the fall. The differences between SPC‐ON and SPC‐OFF are amplified when there is temporal correlation between photosynthetic capacity and climate anomalies or disturbances. Warmer spring temperatures enhance GPP in SPC‐ON more than in SPC‐OFF, but warmer fall temperatures enhance GPP in SPC‐OFF more than in SPC‐ON. Defoliation by gypsy moth, a class of disturbance that typically happens in late spring in the New Jersey Pine Barrens, has a disproportionately negative impact on GPP in SPC‐ON. It is concluded that including seasonal variation of photosynthetic capacity in models will improve simulations of monthly scale ecosystem functioning as well as of longer‐term responses to climate change and disturbances.
The Bumps in Trinidadian Life: Reminiscence Bumps for Positive and Negative Life Events
Authors: Alea Nicole , Ali Sideeka , Marcano Blaine
Published: November 2013

The study examined the life‐script account for a reminiscence bump in a Trinidadian sample (N = 100; range: 31–59 years old). The cue‐word technique elicited memories, and events (n = 809) were content‐coded as life scripted (e.g., marriage), considering normative ages from a preliminary study, unusual (e.g., traumatic events), or ordinary (e.g., a day at the beach). Two reminiscence bumps were found: one between 6 and 15 years old and another in the mid‐twenties, for both positive and negative events. The early bump was comprised mostly of ordinary events, regardless of participant's age. The second bump period was mostly unusual events, regardless of valence, although people ≥40 years old were producing this bump for negative life events. Life‐scripted events were found only in the early negative reminiscence bump. The discussion focuses on other theoretical interpretations for the findings (e.g., life‐story account), methodological considerations for future work, and cultural considerations. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Immunoassay of circulating terminal transferase in patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia: A new technique for diagnosis
Authors: Stass Sanford A. , Peiper Stephen C. , Bollum F.J.
Published: November 2013

The measurement of circulating terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT) antigen can be accomplished by the use of an ELISA immunoassay system. TdT was present in either peripheral or bone marrow plasma of five patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and absent from normal controls using ELISA. The assay was sensitive to a level of 20 ng/ml. The ALL patient values ranged from 160 ng/ml to 420 ng/ml. Use of ELISA for quantitation of TdT may have important diagnostic implications in patients with ALL.
Granulocytopenia with marked lymphocytosis manifesting sjogren syndrome
Authors: Goske James , Askari Ali D. , Dickman Eliot , Forman Walter B. , Crum Edward D.
Published: November 2013

Sjogren syndrome is a multi‐system disease leading to diverse organ involvement during its course [1, 2]. Hematologic abnormalities described in Sjogren syndrome include anemia, mild leukopenia [3, 4], eosinophilia, elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate, hypergammaglobulinemia, mixed cryoglobulinemia, and a variety of autoantibodies [5]. Marked lymphocytosis with granulocytopenia is distinctly unusual and has not been previously reported. We reporf a case of Sjogren syndrome who presented with constellation of the latter problems without prominent sicca manifestations.
Single-port robotically assisted laparoscopic surgery
Authors: Spinoglio G , Lenti L M
Published: November 2013

Worthy of wider evaluation
Simultaneous determination of the novel thiosemicarbazone anti‐cancer agent, Bp4eT, and its main phase I metabolites in plasma: Application to a pilot pharmacokinetic study in rats
Authors: Stariat Ján , Suprunová Vlasta , Roh Jaroslav , Šesták Vít , Eisner Tomáš , Filipský Tomáš , Mladěnka Přemysl , Nobilis Milan , Šimůnek Tomáš , Klimeš Jiří , Kalinowski Danuta S. , Richardson Des R. , Kovaříková Petra
Published: November 2013

Novel thiosemicarbazone metal chelators are extensively studied anti‐cancer agents with marked and selective activity against a wide variety of cancer cells, as well as human tumor xenografts in mice. This study describes the first validated LC‐MS/MS method for the simultaneous quantification of 2‐benzoylpyridine 4‐ethyl‐3‐thiosemicarbazone (Bp4eT) and its main metabolites (E/Z isomers of the semicarbazone structure, M1‐E and M1‐Z, and the amidrazone metabolite, M2) in plasma. Separation was achieved using a C18 column with ammonium formate/acetonitrile mixture as the mobile phase. Plasma samples were treated using solid‐phase extraction on 96‐well plates. This method was validated over the concentration range of 0.18–2.80 μM for Bp4eT, 0.02–0.37 μM for both M1‐E and M1‐Z, and 0.10–1.60 μM for M2. This methodology was applied to the analysis of samples from in vivo experiments, allowing for the concentration–time profile to be simultaneously assessed for the parent drug and its metabolites. The current study addresses the lack of knowledge regarding the quantitative analysis of thiosemicarbazone anti‐cancer drugs and their metabolites in plasma and provides the first pharmacokinetic data on a lead compound of this class. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mass spectrum analysis of serum biomarker proteins from patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Zhou Na , Wang Jie , Yu Yaqin , Shi Jieping , Li Xiaokun , Xu Bin , Yu Qiong
Published: November 2013

Diagnosis of schizophrenia does not have a clear objective test at present, so we aimed to identify the potential biomarkers for the diagnosis of schizophrenia by comparison of serum protein profiling between first‐episode schizophrenia patients and healthy controls. The combination of a magnetic bead separation system with matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF/TOF‐MS) was used to analyze the serum protein spectra of 286 first‐episode patients with schizophrenia, 41 chronic disease patients and 304 healthy controls. FlexAnlysis 3.0 and ClinProToolsTM 2.1 software was used to establish a diagnostic model for schizophrenia. The results demonstrated that 10 fragmented peptides demonstrated an optimal discriminatory performance. Among these fragmented peptides, the peptide with m/z 1206.58 was identified as a fragment of fibrinopeptide A. Receiver operating characteristic analysis for m/z 1206.58 showed that the area under the curve was 0.981 for schizophrenia vs healthy controls, and 0.999 for schizophrenia vs other chronic disease controls. From our result, we consider that the analysis of serum protein spectrum using the magnetic bead separation system and MALDI‐TOF/TOF‐MS is an objective diagnostic tool. We conclude that fibrinopeptide A has the potential to be a biomarker for diagnosis of schizophrenia. This protein may also help to elucidate schizophrenia disease pathogenesis. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Absolute Configuration of Oplopanone Derivatives From Serphidium stenocephalum: ECD Spectra of Acyclic Ketones With Front‐Octant Contributions
Authors: Shafiq Nusrat , Saleem Muhammad , Riaz Naheed , Tousif Muhammad Imran , Jabbar Abdul , Tareen Rasool Bakhsh , Pescitelli Gennaro
Published: November 2013

The electronic circular dichroism (ECD) spectra of two sesquiterpenoids (1 and 2) related to oplopanone, obtained from a methanolic extract of the plant Serphidium stenocephalum (Artemisia stenocephala), were measured and reproduced by means of time‐dependent density functional theory (TDDFT) calculations, establishing their absolute configuration. The application of ketone octant rule for carbonyl n‐π* ECD band to compounds 1 and 2, which include an acyclic carbonyl group, was critically assessed. The peculiar oplopanone skeleton makes a straightforward application of the octant rule impossible, because of the uncertainty related to the shape of the so‐called third nodal surface separating front and back octants. The various group contributions to the carbonyl n‐π* ECD band were estimated with TDDFT calculations on selected molecular models obtained by consecutive dissections from 1. Chirality 26:39–43, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Mathematical model of the CO2 solubilisation reaction rates developed for the study of photobioreactors
Authors: Sugai‐Guérios Maura Harumi , Mariano André Bellin , Vargas José Viriato Coelho , de Lima Luz Luiz Fernando , Mitchell David Alexander
Published: November 2013

The transfer of CO2 between the gas and liquid phases is one of the most important processes that occur during cultivation of microalgae in photobioreactors. A key factor that influences the rate of mass transfer is the concentration of CO2 in the liquid phase, which, in turn, depends on the rates of the reactions involved in CO2 solubilisation. This work presents a mathematical model for the rate of these solubilisation reactions with correlations that allow the calculation of the model parameters at temperatures from 5°C to 40°C. The model was validated using data of CO2 mass transfer from the literature obtained with two experimental systems: a bubble column for CO2 absorption and a flat‐panel photobioreactor. The model was further used to show that the increase in the rate of CO2 absorption that occurs at higher pH values is due to increased consumption of CO2(aq) in the solubilisation reactions and not to an increase in kLa. The pH decreases as CO2 is solubilised, therefore, when pH is controlled, the mass transfer rate is higher than it would be without pH control. Our model can be used as a tool to guide the operation, control and scale‐up of photobioreactors for the cultivation of microalgae.
The magnetic resonance myth of radio waves
Authors: Hoult D. I.
Published: November 2013

An inaccurate description of magnetic resonance is current among those employing it in medicine and biology. The technique is purported to use radio waves for both stimulation of the sample and for reception of the ensuing signal. Arguments are presented which counter this myth, and using only magnetic fields, an accurate classical description of transmission and reception is given.
NMR spectroscopy of the heart, part I
Authors: Balaban Robert S.
Published: November 2013

The heart has been one of the most extensively studied biological tissues using NMR spectroscopy. The importance of the heart function and the prevalence of heart disease are major reasons for this attention. However, several aspects of the heart's morphology and the availability of in vitro models suitable for NMR studies have also been important factors in the application of this technique. The purpose of this discourse is to review the techniques used to perform the NMR spectroscopy experiment on the heart, both in vitro and in vivo.
Impedance: What it is, and why it must be matched
Authors: Traficante Daniel D.
Published: November 2013

All probes in NMR spectrometers must be “tuned” and “matched” to obtain optimum sensitivity. In the simplest electronic circuits, tuning and matching are accomplished by adjusting variable capacitors. These adjustments determine the impedance of the circuit; i.e., the extent to which the circuit opposes, or impedes alternating‐current flow. This impedance is the vector sum of the individual oppositions owing to the presence of resistors, inductors and capacitors in the circuit. When the impedance of the probe circuitry is equal to (matches) that of the high‐power, pulsed, radio‐frequency transmitter, power is efficiently transferred to the probe and pulse‐widths are minimized. Similarly, when the impedance of the probe circuitry matches that of the small‐signal preamplifier, the detected signal power is efficiently transferred to the amplifier and the signal‐to‐noise ratio is maximized.
Prevention of liquid nitrogen bubbling in electron spin resonance samples
Authors: Kevan Larry
Published: November 2013

Liquid nitrogen bubbling in ESR samples can be prevented by bubbling helium gas into the liquid nitrogen above the ESR sample.
Performance of the Roche cobas 4800 high‐risk human papillomavirus test in cytologic preparations of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck
Authors: Kerr Darcy A. , Pitman Martha B. , Sweeney Brenda , Arpin Ronald N. , Wilbur David C. , Faquin William C.
Published: November 2013

BACKGROUND

Determining high‐risk human papillomavirus (HR‐HPV) status of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) defines a tumor subset with important clinical implications. Cytologic sampling often provides the sentinel or sole diagnostic specimen. The authors assessed the performance characteristics for the Roche cobas 4800 HPV real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR)‐based system (cobas) on cytologic specimens of HNSCC compared with standard methods of in situ hybridization (ISH) for HR‐HPV and immunohistochemistry (IHC) for p16 on formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) tissue.

METHODS

Samples of HNSCC were collected by fine‐needle aspiration and from surgical biopsies or resections, fixed, and processed with the cobas system. Available corresponding FFPE samples were synchronously evaluated for HR‐HPV using ISH and IHC. Discrepant cases underwent additional PCR studies for adjudication.

RESULTS

Thirty‐six samples from 33 patients were analyzed. Forty‐two percent (n = 15) of tumors were positive for HR‐HPV according to cobas. Corresponding histology with ISH (n = 30) was concordant in 91% of samples. Compared with the adjudication PCR standard, there were 3 false‐positive cases according to cobas. Ninety‐two percent (n = 12) of cases were the HPV16 subtype. The overall sensitivity for the cobas system was 100%, and the specificity was 86%.

CONCLUSIONS

Concordance in HNSCC HR‐HPV status between cobas and ISH/IHC was > 90%, and cobas demonstrated a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 86%, broadening options for HR‐HPV testing of fine‐needle aspiration samples. Advantages for this system include subtyping of HR‐HPV and the ability to discern HR‐HPV status earlier in a patient's treatment course. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 2014;122:167–174. © 2013 American Cancer Society.
3D Numerical modeling and its experimental verifications for an inhomogeneous head phantom using broadband fNIR system
Authors: Sultan E. , Pourrezaei K. , Ghandjbakhche A. , Daryoush A.S.
Published: November 2013

Modeling behavior of broadband (30–1000 MHz) frequency modulated near infrared photons through a multilayer phantom is of interest to optical bio‐imaging research. Photon dynamics in phantom are predicted using three‐dimension (3D) finite element numerical simulation and are related to the measured insertion loss and phase for a given human head geometry in this paper based on three layers of phantom each with distinct optical parameter properties. Simulation and experimental results are achieved for single, two, and three layers solid phantoms using COMSOL (COMSOL AB, Tegnérgatan 23, SE‐111 40, Stockholm, Sweden) (for FEM) simulation and custom‐designed broadband free space optical transmitter (Tx) and receiver (Rx) modules that are developed for photon migration at wavelengths of 680, 795, and 850 nm. Standard error is used to compute error between two‐dimension and 3D FE modeling along with experimental results by fitting experimental data to the functional form of . Error results are shown at narrowband and broadband frequency modulation. Confidence in numerical modeling of the photonic behavior using 3D FEM for human head has been established here by comparing the reflection mode's experimental results with the predictions made by COMSOL for known commercial solid brain phantoms. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Axonal cap‐dependent translation regulates presynaptic p35
Authors: Hsiao Kuangfu , Bozdagi Ozlem , Benson Deanna L.
Published: November 2013

Axonal growth cones synthesize proteins during development and in response to injury in adult animals. Proteins locally translated in axons are used to generate appropriate responses to guidance cues, contribute to axon growth, and can serve as retrograde messengers. In addition to growth cones, mRNAs and translational machinery are also found along the lengths of axons where synapses form en passant, but contributions of intra‐axonal translation to developing synapses are poorly understood. Here, we engineered a subcellular‐targeting translational repressor to inhibit mRNA translation in axons, and we used this strategy to investigate presynaptic contributions of cap‐dependent protein translation to developing CNS synapses. Our data show that intra‐axonal mRNA translation restrains synaptic vesicle recycling pool size and that one target of this regulation is p35, a Cdk5 activating protein. Cdk5/p35 signaling regulates the size of vesicle recycling pools, p35 levels diminish when cap‐dependent translation is repressed, and restoring p35 levels rescues vesicle recycling pools from the effects of spatially targeted translation repression. Together our findings show that intra‐axonal synthesis of p35 is required for normal vesicle recycling in developing neurons, and that targeted translational repression provides a novel strategy to investigate extrasomal protein synthesis in neurons. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 74: 351–364, 2014
Can invasions occur without change? A comparison of G‐matrices and selection in the peach‐potato aphid, Myzus persicae
Authors: Bacigalupe Leonardo D. , Barrientos Karin , Beckerman Andrew P. , Carter Mauricio J. , Figueroa Christian C. , Foster Stephen P. , Moore Allen J. , Silva Andrea X. , Nespolo Roberto F.
Published: November 2013

Most evolutionary research on biological invasions has focused on changes seen between the native and invaded range for a particular species. However, it is likely that species that live in human‐modified habitats in their native range might have evolved specific adaptations to those environments, which increase the likelihood of establishment and spread in similar human‐altered environments. From a quantitative genetic perspective, this hypothesis suggests that both native and introduced populations should reside at or near the same adaptive peak. Therefore, we should observe no overall changes in the G (genetic variance–covariance) matrices between native and introduced ranges, and stabilizing selection on fitness‐related traits in all populations. We tested these predictions comparing three populations of the worldwide pest Myzus persicae from the Middle East (native range) and the UK and Chile (separately introduced ranges). In general, our results provide mixed support for this idea, but further comparisons of other species are needed. In particular, we found that there has been some limited evolution in the studied traits, with the Middle East population differing from the UK and Chilean populations. This was reflected in the structure of the G‐matrices, in which Chile differed from both UK and Middle East populations. Furthermore, the amount of genetic variation was massively reduced in Chile in comparison with UK and Middle East populations. Finally, we found no detectable selection on any trait in the three populations, but clones from the introduced ranges started to reproduce later, were smaller, had smaller offspring, and had lower reproductive fitness than clones from the native range.