bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Direct chemical dynamics simulations: coupling of classical and quasiclassical trajectories with electronic structure theory
Authors: Paranjothy Manikandan , Sun Rui , Zhuang Yu , Hase William L.
Published: November 2012

In classical and quasiclassical trajectory chemical dynamics simulations, the atomistic dynamics of collisions, chemical reactions, and energy transfer are studied by solving the classical equations of motion. These equations require the potential energy and its gradient for the chemical system under study, and they may be obtained directly from an electronic structure theory. This article reviews such direct dynamics simulations. The accuracy of classical chemical dynamics is considered, with simulations highlighted for the F− + CH3OOH reaction and of energy transfer in collisions of CO2 with a perfluorinated self‐assembled monolayer (F‐SAM) surface. Procedures for interfacing chemical dynamics and electronic structure theory computer codes are discussed. A Hessian‐based predictor–corrector algorithm and high‐accuracy Hessian updating algorithm, for enhancing the efficiency of direct dynamics simulations, are described. In these simulations, an ensemble of trajectories is calculated which represents the experimental and chemical system under study. Algorithms are described for selecting the appropriate initial conditions for bimolecular and unimolecular reactions, gas‐surface collisions, and initializing trajectories at transition states and conical intersections. Illustrative direct dynamics simulations are presented for the Cl− + CH3I SN2 reaction, unimolecular decomposition of the epoxy resin constituent CH3NHCHCHCH3 versus temperature, collisions and reactions of N‐protonated diglycine with a F‐SAM surface that has a reactive head group, and the product energy partitioning for the post‐transition state dynamics of C2H5F → HF + C2H4 dissociation. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

This article is categorized under:

Theoretical and Physical Chemistry > Reaction Dynamics and Kinetics
Retinal differentiation in Drosophila
Authors: Treisman Jessica E.
Published: November 2012

Drosophila eye development has been extensively studied, due to the ease of genetic screens for mutations disrupting this process. The eye imaginal disc is specified during embryonic and larval development by the Pax6 homolog Eyeless and a network of downstream transcription factors. Expression of these factors is regulated by signaling molecules and also indirectly by growth of the eye disc. Differentiation of photoreceptor clusters initiates in the third larval instar at the posterior of the eye disc and progresses anteriorly, driven by the secreted protein Hedgehog. Within each cluster, the combined activities of Hedgehog signaling and Notch‐mediated lateral inhibition induce and refine the expression of the transcription factor Atonal, which specifies the founding R8 photoreceptor of each ommatidium. Seven additional photoreceptors, followed by cone and pigment cells, are successively recruited by the signaling molecules Spitz, Delta, and Bride of sevenless. Combinations of these signals and of intrinsic transcription factors give each ommatidial cell its specific identity. During the pupal stages, rhodopsins are expressed, and the photoreceptors and accessory cells take on their final positions and morphologies to form the adult retina. Over the past few decades, the genetic analysis of this small number of cell types arranged in a repetitive structure has allowed a remarkably detailed understanding of the basic mechanisms controlling cell differentiation and morphological rearrangement. WIREs Dev Biol 2012, 2:545–557. doi: 10.1002/wdev.100

This article is categorized under:

Nervous System Development > Flies

Nervous System Development > Vertebrates: General Principles
Characterization and application of a newly synthesized 2-deoxyribose-5-phosphate aldolase
Authors: You Zhong-Yu , Liu Zhi-Qiang , Zheng Yu-Guo , Shen Yin-Chu
Published: November 2012

A codon-optimized 2-deoxyribose-5-phosphate aldolase (DERA) gene was newly synthesized and expressed in Escherichia coli to investigate its biochemical properties and applications in synthesis of statin intermediates. The expressed DERA was purified and characterized using 2-deoxyribose-5-phosphate as the substrate. The specific activity of recombinant DERA was 1.8 U/mg. The optimum pH and temperature for DERA activity were pH 7.0 and 35 °C, respectively. The recombinant DERA was stable at pH 4.0–7.0 and at temperatures below 50 °C. The enzyme activity was inhibited by 1 mM of Ni2+, Ba2+ and Fe2+. The apparent K  m and V  max values of purified enzyme for 2-deoxyribose-5-phosphate were 0.038 mM and 2.9 μmol min−1 mg−1, for 2-deoxyribose were 0.033 mM and 2.59 μmol min−1 mg−1, respectively, which revealed that the enzyme had similar catalytic efficiency towards phosphorylated and non-phosphorylated substrates. To synthesize statin intermediates, the bioconversion process for production of (3R, 5S)-6-chloro-2,4,6-trideoxyhexose from chloroacetaldehyde and acetaldehyde by the recombinant DERA was developed and a conversion of 94.4 % was achieved. This recombinant DERA could be a potential candidate for application in production of (3R, 5S)-6-chloro-2,4,6-trideoxyhexose.
Characterization of three new carboxylic ester hydrolases isolated by functional screening of a forest soil metagenomic library
Authors: Biver Sophie , Vandenbol Micheline
Published: November 2012

Three new lipolytic genes were isolated from a forest soil metagenomic library by functional screening on tributyrin agar plates. The genes SBLip1, SBLip2 and SBLip5.1 respectively encode polypeptides of 445, 346 and 316 amino acids. Phylogenetic analyses revealed that SBLip2 and SBLip5.1 belong to bacterial esterase/lipase family IV, whereas SBLip1 shows similarity to class C β-lactamases and is thus related to esterase family VIII. The corresponding genes were overexpressed and their products purified by affinity chromatography for characterization. Analyses of substrate specificity with different p-nitrophenyl esters showed that all three enzymes have a preference for short-acyl-chain p-nitrophenyl esters, a feature of carboxylesterases as opposed to lipases. The β-lactamase activity of SBLip1, measured with the chromogenic substrate nitrocefin, was very low. The three esterases have the same optimal pH (pH 10) and remain active across a relatively broad pH range, displaying more than 60 % activity between pH 6 and 10. The temperature optima determined were 35 °C for SBLip1, 45 °C for SBLip2 and 50 °C for SBLip5.1. The three esterases displayed different levels of tolerance to salts, solvents and detergents, SBLip2 being overall more tolerant to high concentrations of solvent and SBLip5.1 less affected by detergents.
Altitudinal patterns of plant species richness on the Baekdudaegan Mountains, South Korea: mid‐domain effect, area, climate, and Rapoport's rule
Authors: Lee Chang‐Bae , Chun Jung‐Hwa , Song Ho‐Kyung , Cho Hyun‐Je
Published: November 2012

We studied the altitudinal patterns of plant species richness and examined the effects of geometric constraints, area, and climatic factors on the observed richness patterns along the ridge of the Baekdudaegan Mountains, South Korea. Rapoport's altitudinal rule was evaluated by examining the relationship between altitudinal range size and midpoint. We also examined the latitudinal effect on species richness. Plant data were collected from 1,100 plots along a 200–1,900 m altitudinal gradient along the ridge of the Baekdudaegan. A total of 802 plant species from 97 families and 342 genera were found. The altitudinal patterns of plant species richness along the ridge of the Baekdudaegan depicted distinctly hump‐shaped patterns, although the absolute altitudes of the richness peaks vary somewhat among plant groups. While the mid‐domain effect (MDE) was the most powerful explanatory variable in simple regression models, species richness was also associated with climatic factors, especially mean annual precipitation (MAP) and temperature (MAT) in multiple regression models. The relative importance of the MDE and climatic factors were different among plant groups. The MDE was more important for woody plants and for large‐ranged species, whereas climatic factors were better predictors for total and herbaceous plants and for small‐ranged species. Rapoport's altitudinal rule and a latitudinal effect on species richness were not supported. Our study suggests that a combined interaction of the MDE and climatic factors influences species richness patterns along the altitudinal gradient of the Baekdudaegan Mountains, South Korea.
Determination of Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate in Toothpastes by a PVC Matrix Membrane Sensor
Authors: Devi Sunaina , Chattopadhyaya Mahesh C.
Published: November 2012

The construction and characteristic performance of a new potentiometric PVC membrane sensor responsive for sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) are described. The sensor is based on the use of cetyltrimethylammonium‐tetraphenylborate (CTA‐TPB) ion‐pair complex as electroactive material in PVC matrix in presence of dioctyl phthalate as a solvent mediator. The sensor exhibits a rapid, stable and near‐Nernstian response for SDS over the concentration range of 5 × 10−3–5 × 10−6 mol dm−3 at 25 ± 2 °C and the pH range 4–8.5 with slope of 59.6 mV/decade change in SDS concentration. The lower detection limit is 5 × 10−6 mol dm−3 and the response time is 45 s. The determination of selectivity coefficients for different anions shows there is no interference except that of dodecyl benzene sulfonate (DBS−) ion which has a strong interference. The results obtained in the determination of SDS in toothpastes, using this sensor as an indicator electrode, were compared with those obtained from the spectrophotometric method using methylene blue as the reagent.
Extraction and Characterization of Seed Oil from Naturally Grown Chinese Tallow Trees
Authors: Yang Xiao‐Qin , Pan Hui , Zeng Tao , Shupe Todd F. , Hse Chung‐Yun
Published: November 2012

Seeds were collected from locally and naturally grown Chinese tallow trees (CTT) and characterized for general physical and chemical properties and fatty acid composition of the lipids. The effects of four different solvents (petroleum ether, hexane, diethyl ether, and 95 % ethanol) and two extraction methods (supercritical carbon dioxide (SC‐CO2) and conventional Soxhlet) on the properties of the CTT seed oil, including Chinese vegetable tallow (CVT) and stillingia oil (SO), were also investigated. In general, the yields of CVT and SO did not vary based on solvent for Soxhlet extraction and solvent‐free SC‐CO2 extraction, except that the yield of CVT from SC‐CO2 extraction was substantially lower. Nevertheless, the CTT seed oil, extracted by SC‐CO2 displayed better quality than those extracted by Soxhlet extraction in terms of color, residual precipitation, and acid value of the oils. The pretreatment of CTT seed by 3 % aqueous sodium bicarbonate solution likely promoted the hydrolysis of triglyceride and caused the high acid value in the CVT samples. The iodine value at around 180 indicated that the SO is a highly unsaturated drying oil. Palmitic (76 %) and oleic (23 %) are two dominant fatty acids in CVT while linolenic (43 %), linoleic (31 %), and oleic (13 %) are the dominant fatty acids in SO.
Religious Aspects of Politics
Authors: Mauro Mario
Published: November 2012

Today's rapid social and economic changes will negatively affect the EU if it continues to be unresponsive. The lack of political commitment endangers our system of universal values, pluralism and open-mindedness. Freedom of religion is under threat and cultural diversity needs legal protection. Meanwhile, religious institutions can play a role in mitigating the crisis by offering solidarity and reinforcing human dignity. It is important that politics provide answers for the future regarding democracy, values, the social market economy, and sustainable and inclusive growth. As the party of values, the European People's Party (EPP) should play a central role in ensuring solidarity, freedom of religion, pluralism and universal values.
Estimation of Covariate Effects With Current Status Data and Differential Mortality
Authors: Palloni Alberto , Thomas Jason R.
Published: November 2012

The assessment of the impact that socioeconomic determinants have on the prevalence of certain chronic conditions reported by respondents in population surveys must confront two problems. First, the self-reports could be in error (false positives and false negatives). Second, those reporting are a selected sample of those who ever experience the problem, and this selection is heavily influenced by excess mortality attributable to the condition being reported. In this article, we use a combination of empirical data and microsimulation to (a) assess the magnitude of the bias attributable to the selection problem, and (b) suggest an adjustment procedure that corrects for this bias. We find that the proposed adjustment procedure considerably reduces the bias arising from differential mortality.
Nontraditional Families and Childhood Progress Through School: A Comment on Rosenfeld
Authors: Allen Douglas W. , Pakaluk Catherine , Price Joseph
Published: November 2012

We reexamine Rosenfeld’s (2010) study on the association between child outcomes and same-sex family structure. Using the same data set, we replicate and generalize Rosenfeld’s findings and show that the implications of his study are different when using either alternative comparison groups or alternative sample restrictions. Compared with traditional married households, we find that children being raised by same-sex couples are 35 % less likely to make normal progress through school; this difference is statistically significant at the 1 % level.
Reply to Allen et al.
Authors: Rosenfeld Michael J.
Published: November 2012

Allen et al.’s results depend on their inclusion of children whose family at the time of their grade retention is unknown, plus adopted and foster children whose selection process into families is unknown. Children whose family has been through upheavals or transitions are less likely to make good progress in school than children from stable families. Children raised by stable same-sex couples do remarkably well in school.
Establishment of the reporter system for a thylakoid‐lacking cyanobacterium, Gloeobacter violaceus PCC 7421
Authors: Araki Mie , Shimada Yuichiro , Mimuro Mamoru , Tsuchiya Tohru
Published: November 2012

Gloeobacter violaceus PCC 7421 is considered, by molecular phylogenetic analyses, to be an early‐branching cyanobacterium within the cyanobacterial clade. G. violaceus is the only known oxygenic photosynthetic organism that lacks thylakoid membranes. There is only one report on the development of a transformation system for G. violaceus [H. Guo, X. Xu, Prog. Nat. Sci. 14 (2004) 31–35] and further studies using the system have not been reported. In the present study, we succeeded in introducing an expression vector (pKUT1121) derived from a broad‐host‐range plasmid, RSF1010, into G. violaceus by conjugation. The frequency of transformation of our system is significantly higher than that described in the previous report. In addition, luciferase heterologously expressed in G. violaceus functioned as a reporter. The established system will promote the molecular genetic studies on G. violaceus.
Search for adenosine A2A spare receptors on peripheral human lymphocytes
Authors: Jacquin Laurent , Franceschi Frédéric , By Youlet , Durand-Gorde Josée-Martine , Condo Jocelyne , Deharo Jean-Claude , Michelet Pierre , Fenouillet Emmanuel , Guieu Régis , Ruf Jean
Published: November 2012

Some ligand–receptor couples involve spare receptors, which are apparent when a maximal response is achieved with only a small fraction of the receptor population occupied. This situation favours cross‐reactions with low‐affinity ligands, which may be detrimental for cell signaling. In the case of the adenosine A2A receptors (A2AR), which have an immunosuppressive effect on lymphocytes through cAMP production, the presence of spare A2AR remains to be established. We examined the situation using patients over‐expressing lymphocyte A2AR and an agonist‐like mAb to A2AR. We found that maximal mAb binding and functional response varied among the patients whereas the dissociation constant and half‐maximal effective concentration had similar mean values (0.19 and 0.18 μM, respectively). Lymphocyte A2AR expression was correlated to plasma adenosine level and A2AR occupation but not to A2AR response. These results are consistent with a lack of a reserve of functional A2AR on human lymphocytes as a general rule and suggest that the amount and functional state of the expressed A2AR determine the maximal level of the lymphocyte response to adenosine.
Sex, risk and the newsvendor
Authors: de Véricourt Francis , Jain Kriti , Bearden J. Neil , Filipowicz Allan
Published: November 2012

We present results from two experiments that reveal significant gender differences in ordering behavior in the newsvendor problem. In high margin settings, males tend to order more than females, and they also tend to achieve higher profits. There are no gender differences in low margin settings. We show that the observed gender differences are partially driven by (or mediated by) gender differences in risk appetite. Males tend to prefer taking greater risk than women, and this leads them to order more in the newsvendor problem (in high margin settings). We show that the risk‐ordering relationship is related to financial risk attitudes but not to social risk attitudes, and also that the effect is not driven by gender differences in affect, a likely alternative explanation for the results.
Substitution of TAG oil with diacylglycerol oil in food items improves the predicted 10 years cardiovascular risk score in healthy, overweight subjects
Authors: Telle-Hansen Vibeke H. , Narverud Ingunn , Retterstøl Kjetil , Wesseltoft-Rao Nima , Mosdøl Annhild , Granlund Linda , Christiansen Kirsti Forstrøm , Lamglait Amandine , Halvorsen Bente , Holven Kirsten B. , Ulven Stine M.
Published: November 2012

Dietary fat is normally in TAG form, but diacylglycerol (DAG) is a natural component of edible oils. Studies have shown that consumption of DAG results in metabolic characteristics that are distinct from those of TAG, which may be beneficial in preventing and managing obesity. The objective of the present study was to investigate if food items in which part of the TAG oil is replaced with DAG oil combined with high α-linolenic acid (ALA) content would influence metabolic markers. A 12-week double-blinded randomised controlled parallel-design study was conducted. The participants (n23) were healthy, overweight men and women, aged 37–67 years, BMI 27–35 kg/m2, with waist circumference >94 cm (men) and >88 cm (women). The two groups received 20 g margarine, 11 g mayonnaise and 12 g oil per d, containing either high ALA andsn-1,3-DAG or high ALA and TAG. Substitution of TAG oil with DAG oil in food items for 12 weeks led to an improvement of the predicted 10 years cardiovascular risk score in overweight subjects by non-significantly improving markers of health such as total body fat percentage, trunk fat mass, alanine aminotransferase, systolic blood pressure, γ-glutamyl transferase, alkaline phosphatase and total fat-free mass. This may suggest that replacing TAG oil with DAG oil in healthy, overweight individuals may have beneficial metabolic effects.
How are affective word ratings related to lexicosemantic properties? Evidence from the Sussex Affective Word List
Authors: CITRON FRANCESCA M. M. , WEEKES BRENDAN S. , FERSTL EVELYN C.
Published: November 2012

Emotional content of verbal material affects the speed of visual word recognition in various cognitive tasks, independently of lexicosemantic variables. However, little is known about how the dimensions of emotional arousal and valence interact with the lexicosemantic properties of words such as age of acquisition, familiarity, and imageability, that determine word recognition performance. This study aimed to examine these relationships using English ratings for affective and lexicosemantic features. Eighty-two native English speakers rated 300 words for emotional valence, arousal, familiarity, age of acquisition, and imageability. Although both dimensions of emotion were correlated with lexicosemantic variables, a unique emotion cluster produced the strongest quadratic relationship. This finding suggests that emotion should be included in models of word recognition as it is likely to make an independent contribution.
Differential seed germination of a keystone palm (Euterpe edulis) dispersed by avian frugivores
Authors: de Barros Leite Abraão , Brancalion Pedro H. S. , Guevara Roger , Galetti Mauro
Published: November 2012

The effectiveness of seed dispersal by vertebrates has been analysed by examining both quantitative and qualitative components (Jordano & Schupp 2000, Schuppet al. 2010). While the quantitative component is relatively easily assessed in the field (e.g. visitation rate, number of fruits eaten per visit), the qualitative component (e.g. fate of dispersed seeds, seed treatment in the digestive system of the disperser) is rarely studied under natural conditions, because it is difficult to measure the effects on seeds once ingested by the dispersers (Corteset al. 2009).
Incidence and clinical features ofClostridium difficileinfection in Korea: a nationwide study
Authors: KIM Y. S. , HAN D. S. , KIM Y. H. , KIM W. H. , KIM J. S. , KIM H. S. , KIM H. S. , PARK Y. S. , SONG H. J. , SHIN S. J. , YANG S. K. , YE B. D. , EUN C. S. , LEE K. M. , LEE S. H. , JANG B. I. , JUNG S. A. , CHEON J. H. , CHOI C. H. , HUH K. C.
Published: November 2012

The incidence and severity ofClostridium difficileinfections (CDI) have increased in Western countries. However, there are limited data regarding the epidemiology of CDI in Eastern countries. This nationwide study was conducted in 17 hospitals to determine temporal trends in CDI incidence (from 2004 to 2008) in South Korea. The total incidence of CDI in Korea was 1·7 cases/1000 adult admissions in 2004, and 2·7/1000 cases in 2008 (P = 0·028). When analysing the clinical features of 1367 CDI patients diagnosed in 2008, oral metronidazole was effective as a first-line treatment for CDI (61·9%). Relapse rate was 8·9% and complicated CDI was only observed in 3·6%. The incidence of CDI increased significantly in Korea from 2004 to 2008. Although the clinical features were milder than in Western countries, the increasing burden of CDI needs ongoing surveillance systems.
‘For the Birds’: A sound installation
Authors: Hawkins Ruth
Published: November 2012

This paper describes the background and development of a sound installation which, over a period of time, brings together site-specific field recordings, and acoustic and amplified sounds in a complex of natural and technological sources. During the installation diverse genres of recording and territories of sound become potentially, transiently available as local birdsong, background noises and the sounds of recordings and audio technologies are realised through enculturated experiences of recordings and ambient modes of listening. The work has closely evolved out of an existing field recording practice and the version described here remains a proposal – at the time of writing – to be completed in spring 2011. The way in which the installation has contingently emerged has become a critical part of the work which – instead of being conceived of as a untransferable ‘new reality’ essentially related to a site – will be used to open and connect recorded sound to the prolific wider circulation of mediated sound and – across different milieux – to the world ‘itself’.
Diet and physical activity in pre-school children: a pilot project for surveillance in three regions of Italy
Authors: Carletti Claudia , Macaluso Anna , Pani Paola , Caroli Margherita , Giacchi Mariano , Montico Marcella , Cattaneo Adriano
Published: November 2012

Objective

To test a surveillance system on diet and physical activity based on data gathered at well-child visits.

Design

Cross-sectional data collection on growth, diet, physical activity and sociodemographic variables.

Setting

Offices of 179 paediatricians in three Italian regions.

Subjects

26 898 children for a total of 32 915 well-child visits at 1, 3, 5–6, 8–9, 12, 18, 24, 36 and 60–72 months of age.

Results

The BMI Z-score was lower than the WHO standard at 1 and 3 months but higher from 8–9 months onwards. The rates of breast-feeding at 1, 3, 5–6, 8–9 and 12 months were 88 %, 75 %, 64 %, 52 % and 32 %, respectively, with 5 % and 3 % continuing up to 24 and 36 months. Exclusive breast-feeding was 64 %, 54 % and 20 % at 1, 3 and 5–6 months, respectively; 57 % at 5 months and 85 % at 6 months were given complementary foods. Only 8 % and 10 % of children were taking five portions of fruit and vegetables daily, while 47 % and 51 % were consuming sugar-sweetened beverages at 36 and 60–72 months, respectively. At 60–72 months, less than 10 % reported at least 1 h of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity on 5–7 d/week, and 32 % watched television or played videogames for more than 2 h/d, every day. The majority of paediatricians rated the surveillance system as reliable and feasible.

Conclusions

Surveillance for diet and physical activity in pre-school children, with data gathered during well-child visits, is feasible and potentially useful to plan and evaluate activities for the prevention of obesity.
Delivering adaptive radiotherapy to the bladder during radical treatment
Authors: Arthur Claire , Livsey Jac , Choudhury Ananya
Published: November 2012

Radical radiotherapy to the bladder for muscle-invasive bladder cancer is a challenging treatment to plan and deliver because of organ mobility and its varying volume. The dynamic target volume can be tracked with imaging during the treatment course, enabling an adaptive response and adjustment of the patient’s individual treatment plan. This article summarises the difficulties encountered when treating the bladder, different approaches to patient imaging and adaptive radiotherapy techniques. Ultimately these technological advances support the delivery of a personalised treatment plan to ensure optimal dose delivery to the tumour and simultaneous sparing of adjacent normal tissue.
A randomized add-on trial of high-dose d-cycloserine for treatment-resistant depression
Authors: Heresco-Levy Uriel , Gelfin Genia , Bloch Boaz , Levin Raz , Edelman Shani , Javitt Daniel C , Kremer Ilana
Published: November 2012

Antagonism of N-methyl-d-aspartate glutamatergic receptors (NMDAR) may represent an effective antidepressant mechanism. d-cycloserine (DCS) is a partial agonist at the NMDAR-associated glycine modulatory site that at high doses acts as a functional NMDAR antagonist. Twenty-six treatment-resistant major depressive disorder patients participated in a double blind, placebo-controlled, 6-wk parallel group trial with a gradually titrated high dose (1000 mg/d) of DCS added to their antidepressant medication. DCS treatment was well tolerated, had no psychotomimetic effects and led to improvement in depression symptoms as measured by Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD; p = 0.005) and Beck Depression Inventory (p = 0.046). Of the 13 subjects treated with DCS, 54% had a ⩾50% HAMD score reduction vs. 15% of the 13 patients randomized to placebo (p = 0.039). A significant (p = 0.043) treatment× pre-treatment glycine serum levels interaction was registered. These findings indicate that NMDAR glycine site antagonism may be a cost-effective target for development of mechanistically novel antidepressants. Larger-sized DCS trials are warranted.
Search for Electromagnetic Counterparts to LIGO-Virgo Candidates: Expanded Very Large Array Observations – CORRIGENDUM
Authors: Lazio Joseph , Keating Katie , Jenet F. A. , Kassim N. E.
Published: November 2012

In the article by Joseph Lazio, Katie Keating, F. A. Jenet and N. E. Kassim published in Proceedings IAU Symposium No. 285 there was an error in the listing of authors. The correct authorship is:

Joseph Lazio, Katie Keating, F. A. Jenet, and N. E. Kassim, the LIGO Scientific Collaboration and the Virgo Collaboration
Sound velocities of MORB and absence of a basaltic layer in the mantle transition region
Authors: Kono Yoshio , Irifune Tetsuo , Ohfuji Hiroaki , Higo Yuji , Funakoshi Ken‐ichi
Published: November 2012

Compressional (Vp) and shear (Vs) wave velocities of mid‐ocean‐ridge basalt (MORB) was investigated atin situ high pressure and high temperature conditions of the mantle transition region by using a combination of ultrasonic and in situx‐ray measurements. Both Vp and Vs of MORB are lower than the previously predicted velocities of the major mantle mineral phases. We found that the Vp and Vs of MORB along a typical geotherm are lower by about 2 and 5%, respectively than those of seismological models, and do not match any global and regional seismological models in the deeper parts of the mantle transition region. Thus, the existence of a basaltic layer in this region is unlikely, suggesting that the oceanic crust materials are transported into the lower mantle.
Strong diffusion limit in the realistic magnetosphere: Dependence on geomagnetic condition and spatial location
Authors: Zhou Chen , Yang Guobin , Ni Binbin , Zhao Zhengyu , Hu Ze‐jun , Shi Run
Published: November 2012

As an essential concept of resonant wave‐particle interactions, the strong diffusion limit DSD is an important variable to explore the efficiency of wave‐induced pitch angle scattering for particle precipitation loss to the atmosphere. Determined by the size of equatorial loss cone on a given field line and the bounce period at a given energy, the value of DSD sets a lower limit to the precipitation timescale for loss cone filling, regardless of the strength of wave‐particle interactions. However, no efforts have ever been made to evaluate DSD in the realistic magnetosphere considering the impact of various geomagnetic activities. To perform a systematic exploration of the dependence of DSD on geomagnetic condition, spatial location, and global magnetic field model, we have numerically computed DSD using the dipolar and non‐dipolar Tsyganenko magnetic field models under three representative (quiet, moderate, and active) geomagnetic conditions. Use of more realistic Tsyganenko magnetic field models introduces non‐negligible or considerable differences in DSD magnitude from that obtained using a dipolar field. The difference can be over an order of magnitude at the field lines with equatorial crossings ≥6 Re during geomagnetically disturbed times. We also report that in the realistic magnetosphere both DSD magnitude and its variations have a strong dependence on the spatial location. Computed DSD shows the maximum tending to occur on the dayside (MLT = 12 and 16) and the minimum DSD more likely to occur at MLT = 00. Compared to the dipolar results, largest deviation in DSD occurs for MLT = 00, 04, and 20, while DSD variations on the dayside are relatively small. Our results demonstrate that accurate evaluation of DSD besides scattering rates in the realistic magnetosphere, especially at high spatial locations and under geomagnetically disturbed conditions for which a dipolar approximation fails, can make an important contribution to quantifying the wave effect on particle resonant diffusion, which should be incorporated into future modeling efforts for comprehending the role of resonant wave‐particle interactions and the dynamics of magnetospheric electrons under a variety of geomagnetic conditions.
The response of the Red Sea to a strong wind jet near the Tokar Gap in summer
Authors: Zhai Ping , Bower Amy
Published: November 2012

Remote sensing and in situ observations are used to investigate the ocean response to the Tokar Wind Jet in the Red Sea. The wind jet blows down the atmospheric pressure gradient through the Tokar Gap on the Sudanese coast, at about 19°N, during the summer monsoon season. It disturbs the prevailing along‐sea (southeastward) winds with strong cross‐sea (northeastward) winds that can last from days to weeks and reach amplitudes of 20–25 m/s. By comparing scatterometer winds with along‐track and gridded sea level anomaly observations, it is observed that an intense dipolar eddy spins up in response to the wind jet. The eddy pair has a horizontal scale of 140 km. Maximum ocean surface velocities can reach 1 m/s and eddy currents extend more than 100 m into the water column. The eddy currents appear to cover the width of the sea, providing a pathway for rapid transport of marine organisms and other drifting material from one coast to the other. Interannual variability in the strength of the dipole is closely matched with variability in the strength of the wind jet. The dipole is observed to be quasi‐stationary, although there is some evidence for slow eastward propagation in an idealized numerical model. Simulation of the dipole in an idealized high‐resolution numerical model suggests that this is the result of self‐advection.
Accommodation of transpressional strain in the Arabia‐Eurasia collision zone: new constraints from (U‐Th)/He thermochronology in the Alborz mountains, north Iran
Authors: Ballato Paolo , Stockli Daniel F. , Ghassemi Mohammad R. , Landgraf Angela , Strecker Manfred R. , Hassanzadeh Jamshid , Friedrich Anke , Tabatabaei Saeid H.
Published: November 2012

The Alborz range of N Iran provides key information on the spatiotemporal evolution and characteristics of the Arabia‐Eurasia continental collision zone. The southwestern Alborz range constitutes a transpressional duplex, which accommodates oblique shortening between Central Iran and the South Caspian Basin. The duplex comprises NW‐striking frontal ramps that are kinematically linked to inherited E‐W‐striking, right‐stepping lateral to obliquely oriented ramps. New zircon and apatite (U‐Th)/He data provide a high‐resolution framework to unravel the evolution of collisional tectonics in this region. Our data record two pulses of fast cooling associated with SW‐directed thrusting across the frontal ramps at ~ 18–14 and 9.5‐7.5 Ma, resulting in the tectonic repetition of a fossil zircon partial retention zone and a cooling pattern with a half U‐shaped geometry. Uniform cooling ages of ~ 7–6 Ma along the southernmost E‐W striking oblique ramp and across its associated NW‐striking frontal ramps suggests that the ramp was reactivated as a master throughgoing, N‐dipping thrust. We interpret this major change in fault kinematics and deformation style to be related to a change in the shortening direction from NE to N/NNE. The reduction in the obliquity of thrusting may indicate the termination of strike‐slip faulting (and possibly thrusting) across the Iranian Plateau, which could have been triggered by an increase in elevation. Furthermore, we suggest that ~ 7‐6‐m.y.‐old S‐directed thrusting predated inception of the westward motion of the South Caspian Basin.
Structure of the formin-interaction domain of the actin nucleation-promoting factor Bud6
Authors: Tu Daqi , Graziano Brian R. , Park Eunyoung , Zheng Wei , Li Yiqun , Goode Bruce L. , Eck Michael J.
Published: November 2012

Formin proteins and their associated factors cooperate to assemble unbranched actin filaments in diverse cellular structures. The
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
formin Bni1 and its associated nucleation-promoting factor (NPF) Bud6 generate actin cables and mediate polarized cell growth. Bud6 binds to both the tail of the formin and G-actin, thereby recruiting monomeric actin to the formin to create a nucleation seed. Here, we structurally and functionally dissect the nucleation-promoting C-terminal region of Bud6 into a Bni1-binding “core” domain and a G-actin binding “flank” domain. The ∼2-Å resolution crystal structure of the Bud6 core domain reveals an elongated dimeric rod with a unique fold resembling a triple-helical coiled-coil. Binding and actin-assembly assays show that conserved residues on the surface of this domain mediate binding to Bni1 and are required for NPF activity. We find that the Bni1 dimer binds two Bud6 dimers and that the Bud6 flank binds a single G-actin molecule. These findings suggest a model in which a Bni1/Bud6 complex with a 2:4 subunit stoichiometry assembles a nucleation seed with Bud6 coordinating up to four actin subunits.
Structural features underlying T-cell receptor sensitivity to concealed MHC class I micropolymorphisms
Authors: Stewart-Jones Guillaume B. , Simpson Peter , Anton van der Merwe P. , Easterbrook Philippa , McMichael Andrew J. , Rowland-Jones Sarah L. , Jones E. Yvonne , Gillespie Geraldine M.
Published: November 2012

Polymorphic differences distinguishing MHC class I subtypes often permit the presentation of shared epitopes in conformationally identical formats but can affect T-cell repertoire selection, differentially impacting autoimmune susceptibilities and viral clearance in vivo. The molecular mechanisms underlying this effect are not well understood. We performed structural, thermodynamic, and functional analyses of a conserved T-cell receptor (TCR) which is frequently expanded in response to a HIV-1 epitope when presented by HLA-B*5701 but is not selected by HLA-B*5703, which differs from HLA-B*5701 by two concealed polymorphisms. Our findings illustrate that although both HLA-B*57 subtypes display the epitope in structurally conserved formats, the impact of their polymorphic differences occurs directly as a consequence of TCR ligation, primarily because of peptide adjustments required for TCR binding, which involves the interplay of polymorphic residues and water molecules. These minor differences culminate in subtype-specific differential TCR-binding kinetics and cellular function. Our data demonstrate a potential mechanism whereby the most subtle MHC class I micropolymorphisms can influence TCR use and highlight their implications for disease outcomes.
Progress on first-principles-based materials design for hydrogen storage
Authors: Park Noejung , Choi Keunsu , Hwang Jeongwoon , Kim Dong Wook , Kim Dong Ok , Ihm Jisoon
Published: November 2012

This article briefly summarizes the research activities in the field of hydrogen storage in sorbent materials and reports our recent works and future directions for the design of such materials. Distinct features of sorption-based hydrogen storage methods are described compared with metal hydrides and complex chemical hydrides. We classify the studies of hydrogen sorbent materials in terms of two key technical issues: (
i
) constructing stable framework structures with high porosity, and (
ii
) increasing the binding affinity of hydrogen molecules to surfaces beyond the usual van der Waals interaction. The recent development of reticular chemistry is summarized as a means for addressing the first issue. Theoretical studies focus mainly on the second issue and can be grouped into three classes according to the underlying interaction mechanism: electrostatic interactions based on alkaline cations, Kubas interactions with open transition metals, and orbital interactions involving Ca and other nontransitional metals. Hierarchical computational methods to enable the theoretical predictions are explained, from ab initio studies to molecular dynamics simulations using force field parameters. We also discuss the actual delivery amount of stored hydrogen, which depends on the charging and discharging conditions. The usefulness and practical significance of the hydrogen spillover mechanism in increasing the storage capacity are presented as well.
Predictors of early dyspnoea relief in acute heart failure and the association with 30‐day outcomes: findings from ASCEND‐HF
Authors: Mentz Robert J. , Hernandez Adrian F. , Stebbins Amanda , Ezekowitz Justin A. , Felker G. Michael , Heizer Gretchen M. , Atar Dan , Teerlink John R. , Califf Robert M. , Massie Barry M. , Hasselblad Vic , Starling Randall C. , O'Connor Christopher M. , Ponikowski Piotr
Published: November 2012

Aims

To examine the characteristics associated with early dyspnoea relief during acute heart failure (HF) hospitalization, and its association with 30‐day outcomes.

Methods and results

ASCEND‐HF was a randomized trial of nesiritide vs. placebo in 7141 patients hospitalized with acute HF in which dyspnoea relief at 6 h was measured on a 7‐point Likert scale. Patients were classified as having early dyspnoea relief if they experienced moderate or marked dyspnoea improvement at 6 h. We analysed the clinical characteristics, geographical variation, and outcomes (mortality, mortality/HF hospitalization, and mortality/hospitalization at 30 days) associated with early dyspnoea relief. Early dyspnoea relief occurred in 2984 patients (43%). In multivariable analyses, predictors of dyspnoea relief included older age and oedema on chest radiograph; higher systolic blood pressure, respiratory rate, and natriuretic peptide level; and lower serum blood urea nitrogen (BUN), sodium, and haemoglobin (model mean C index = 0.590). Dyspnoea relief varied markedly across countries, with patients enrolled from Central Europe having the lowest risk‐adjusted likelihood of improvement. Early dyspnoea relief was associated with lower risk‐adjusted 30‐day mortality/HF hospitalization [hazard ratio (HR) 0.81; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.68–0.96] and mortality/hospitalization (HR 0.85; 95% CI 0.74–0.99), but similar mortality.

Conclusion

Clinical characteristics such as respiratory rate, pulmonary oedema, renal function, and natriuretic peptide levels are associated with early dyspnoea relief, and moderate or marked improvement in dyspnoea was associated with a lower risk for 30‐day outcomes.
The role of behavioural flexibility in a whole of ecosystem model
Authors: van Putten Ingrid E. , Gorton Rebecca J. , Fulton Elizabeth A. , Thebaud Olivier
Published: November 2012

van Putten, I. E., Gorton, R. J., Fulton, E. A., and Thebaud, O. 2013. The role of behavioural flexibility in a whole of ecosystem model. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 70:150–163. The predictive accuracy of complex fisheries models developed to anticipate the effects of changing fishery regulations appears to depend on a solid understanding of the processes and feedback systems linking biological and physical information to resource user. Many fisher decisions are modelled in the human component of the models, including inertia, or location choice flexibility. We unpack a whole of ecosystem system model and explore how location choice flexibility in fleet behaviour (sticking to the same seasonal and spatial distribution of fishing) affects outcomes such as catches and income levels and variability. Our analysis shows that the interpretation is not straightforward, and the relationship between behavioural flexibility and income level and income variability has to be considered in the context of three main fleet characteristics: profitability; how diversified the fleet is; and growing or declining target species biomass. We contend that making behavioural flexibility sensitive to the health of the stock and fleet profitability could potentially improve accuracy of large whole of ecosystem models such as Atlantis.
Mid-term Outcomes of Anterior Cervical Fusion for Cervical Spondylosis With Sympathetic Symptoms
Authors: Li Jun , Jiang Dong-jie , Wang Xin-wei , Yuan Wen , Liang Lei , Wang Zhan-chao
Published: November 2012

Study Design:

Prospective study.

Objective:

The purpose of this study is to elucidate mid-term outcomes of anterior cervical fusion for cervical spondylosis with sympathetic symptoms (CSSS).

Summary of Background Date:

The terminology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of CSSS remain controversial. Surgical treatment of CSSS has been rarely reported. This is the first prospective study to evaluate the mid-term outcome of surgical treatment of CSSS.

Methods:

Thirty-one patients who were diagnosed with CSSS in 2006 were evaluated prospectively. All patients were assigned to undergo anterior cervical fusion with posterior longitudinal ligament (PLL) resection and followed up for ≥5 years. Sympathetic symptoms such as vertigo, headache, and tinnitus, etc. were evaluated using the sympathetic symptom 20-point score. Neurological status was assessed using the Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) score. Clinical and radiologic data were prospectively collected before surgery, and at 1 week, 2 months, 6 months, 2 years, and 5 years after surgery. Surgical complications and morbidities of other diseases during the follow-up were also recorded.

Results:

The mean 20-point score decreased significantly from 7.3±3.5 before surgery to 2.2±2.7 at the final follow-up (P<0.001), giving a mean recovery rate of 66.1%±50.3%. Good to excellent results were attained in 80.6% of these patients. The sympathetic symptoms were relieved in 23 of the 31 patients in the early postoperative period, and 5 patients in 2 months. No relief of sympathetic symptoms was found in 3 patients. The mean JOA score improved significantly from 12.0±1.9 before surgery to 14.8±1.5 by the end of the follow-up (P<0.001). No late neurological deterioration was found in this group.

Conclusions:

The mid-term outcomes of anterior cervical fusion with PLL resection for CSSS have been satisfactory. Differential diagnosis before surgery is of great importance. PLL may play a role in presenting sympathetic symptoms.
Immune Factors in Breast Milk and the Development of Atopic Disease
Authors: Iyengar Shuba R. , Walker W.A.
Published: November 2012

Breast‐feeding provides protection against infections and contains numerous factors that modulate and promote the development of the infant immune system. These factors include secretory IgA, antimicrobial proteins like CD14, cytokines, and fatty acids. Studies examining the role of breast‐feeding in the development of allergic disease in infants demonstrate potentially protective as well as neutral or nonprotective effects, likely due to the heterogeneity in their study design. In this overview, we explore the potential role of immune factors in the breast milk, as well as selected probiotics, in the development of allergy.
Probiotics to Adolescents With Obesity
Authors: Gøbel Rikke Juul , Larsen Nadja , Jakobsen Mogens , Mølgaard Christian , Michaelsen Kim Fleischer
Published: November 2012

Objectives:

The connections between gut microbiota, energy homeostasis, and inflammation and its role in the pathogenesis of obesity‐related disorders are increasingly recognized. We aimed to investigate the effect of the probiotic strain Lactobacillus salivarius Ls‐33 on a series of biomarkers related to inflammation and the metabolic syndrome (MS) in adolescents with obesity.

Methods:

The study was a double‐blind placebo‐controlled trial including 50 adolescents with obesity randomized to Ls‐33 (1010 CFU) or placebo daily for 12 weeks.

Results:

The average body mass index‐for‐age z‐score was 2.6 ± 0.5. There were no differences in biomarkers of inflammation and parameters related to the MS at baseline between the probiotic and placebo groups. Furthermore, there were no differences in changes from baseline to 12‐week intervention with regard to any anthropometric measures, blood pressure (systolic and diastolic), fasting glucose and insulin, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance, C‐peptide, cholesterol, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglyceride, free fatty acids, C‐reactive protein, interleukin‐6, tumor necrosis factor alpha, or fecal calprotectin, despite the increased values of biomarkers of inflammation and of several parameters related to the MS at baseline when compared with normal‐weight adolescents. The levels of L salivarius in fecal samples from the probiotic group in the present study were comparable with the levels reported for the other probiotic lactobacilli and bifidobacteria using quantitative polymerase chain reaction.

Conclusions:

It was not possible to detect any beneficial effect of the probiotic intervention with Ls‐33 on inflammatory markers or parameters related to the MS in adolescents with obesity being in a state of low‐grade systemic inflammation.