bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Persistent photovoltage in methylammonium lead iodide perovskite solar cells
Authors: Baumann A. , Tvingstedt K. , Heiber M. C. , Väth S. , Momblona C. , Bolink H. J. , Dyakonov V.
Published: June 2014

We herein perform open circuit voltage decay (OCVD) measurements on methylammonium lead iodide (CH3NH3PbI3) perovskite solar cells to increase the understanding of the charge carrier recombination dynamics in this emerging technology. Optically pulsed OCVD measurements are conducted on CH3NH3PbI3 solar cells and compared to results from another type of thin-film photovoltaics, namely, the two reference polymer–fullerene bulk heterojunction solar cell devices based on P3HT:PC60BM and PTB7:PC70BM blends. We observe two very different time domains of the voltage transient in the perovskite solar cell with a first drop on a short time scale that is similar to the decay in the studied organic solar cells. However, 65%–70% of the maximum photovoltage persists on much longer timescales in the perovskite solar cell than in the organic devices. In addition, we find that the recombination dynamics in all time regimes are dependent on the starting illumination intensity, which is also not observed in the organic devices. We then discuss the potential origins of these unique behaviors.
Photo-carrier control of exchange bias in BiFeO3/La2/3Sr1/3MnO3 thin films
Authors: Sung K. D. , Lee T. K. , Park Y. A. , Hur N. , Jung J. H.
Published: June 2014

We report the facile control of exchange bias in BiFeO3/La2/3Sr1/3MnO3 (BFO/LSMO) thin films on an SrTiO3 (STO) substrate using light irradiation. Illumination with weak red light (λ: 630 nm, intensity: ∼1 mW/cm2) reduced the exchange bias field (HE) of BFO/LSMO from +30 Oe in the dark to −2 Oe with red light. In accompanying the decrease of HE, the resistance of BFO/LSMO significantly increased. These results were attributed to the reduction in the hole-doping ratio of LSMO and the weakened exchange coupling between Fe and Mn spins at the interface, resulting from photo-injected electrons from the STO substrate. Successive turning on/off of red light gives rise to cyclical change of corresponding HE, which should be useful for applications like photo-controlled tunneling magnetoresistance devices.
Transport of ion beam in an annular magnetically expanding helicon double layer thruster
Authors: Zhang Yunchao , Charles Christine , Boswell Rod
Published: June 2014

An ion beam generated by an annular double layer has been measured in a helicon thruster, which sustains a magnetised low-pressure (5.0 × 10−4 Torr) argon plasma at a constant radio-frequency (13.56 MHz) power of 300 W. After the ion beam exits the annular structure, it merges into a solid centrally peaked structure in the diffusion chamber. As the annular ion beam moves towards the inner region in the diffusion chamber, a reversed-cone plasma wake (with a half opening angle of about 30°) is formed. This process is verified by measuring both the radial and axial distributions of the beam potential and beam current. The beam potential changes from a two-peak radial profile (maximum value ∼ 30 V, minimum value ∼ 22.5 V) to a flat (∼28 V) along the axial direction; similarly, the beam current changes from a two-peak to one-peak radial profile and the maximum value decreases by half. The inward cross-magnetic-field motion of the beam ions is caused by a divergent electric field in the source. Cross-field diffusion of electrons is also observed in the inner plume and is determined as being of non-ambipolar origin.
Effect of electron temperature anisotropy on near-wall conductivity in Hall thrusters
Authors: Zhang Fengkui , Kong Lingyi , Zhang Xueyi , Li Wei , Yu Daren
Published: June 2014

The electron velocity distribution in Hall thrusters is anisotropic, which not only makes the sheath oscillate in time, but also causes the sheath to oscillate in space under the condition of low electron temperatures. The spatial oscillation sheath has a significant effect on near-wall transport current. In this Letter, the method of particle-in-cell (2D + 3 V) was adopted to simulate the effect of anisotropic electron temperatures on near-wall conductivity in a Hall thruster. Results show that the electron-wall collision frequency is within the same order in magnitude for both anisotropic and isotropic electron temperatures. The near-wall transport current produced by collisions between the electrons and the walls is much smaller than experimental measurements. However, under the condition of anisotropic electron temperatures, the non-collision transport current produced by slow electrons which reflected by the spatial oscillation sheath is much larger and closes to measurements.
Mode-locked erbium-doped fiber laser based on evanescent field interaction with Sb2Te3 topological insulator
Authors: Sotor J. , Sobon G. , Grodecki K. , Abramski K. M.
Published: June 2014

In this Letter, we demonstrate a mode-locked Er-doped fiber laser incorporating antimony telluride (Sb2Te3) topological insulator (TI) as a saturable absorber (SA). The laser was capable of generating 270 fs-short soliton pulses at 1560 nm wavelength, which are the shortest solitons generated with a TI-based saturable absorber so far. In order to form a saturable absorber, a bulk piece of Sb2Te3 was deposited on a side-polished single-mode fiber with the presence of a low refractive index polymer. Such saturable absorber exhibits modulation depth at the level of 6% with less than 3 dB of non-saturable losses. Our study shows that TI-based saturable absorbers with evanescent field interaction might compete with SAs based on carbon nanomaterials, like graphene or nanotubes. Additionally, thanks to the interaction with the evanescent field, the material is not exposed to high optical power, which allows to avoid optical or thermal damage.
Density dependence of the room temperature thermal conductivity of atomic layer deposition-grown amorphous alumina (Al2O3)
Authors: Gorham Caroline S. , Gaskins John T. , Parsons Gregory N. , Losego Mark D. , Hopkins Patrick E.
Published: June 2014

We report on the thermal conductivity of atomic layer deposition-grown amorphous alumina thin films as a function of atomic density. Using time domain thermoreflectance, we measure the thermal conductivity of the thin alumina films at room temperature. The thermal conductivities vary ∼35% for a nearly 15% change in atomic density and are substrate independent. No density dependence of the longitudinal sound speeds is observed with picosecond acoustics. The density dependence of the thermal conductivity agrees well with a minimum limit to thermal conductivity model that is modified with a differential effective-medium approximation.
Double sudden transitions of geometric discord at finite-temperature in the framework of stochastic description
Authors: Wu Wei , Luo Da-Wei , Xu Jing-Bo
Published: June 2014

We investigate the phenomenon of double sudden transitions in geometric quantum correlations for a system consisting of a bare qubit and a qubit locally coupled to its finite-temperature heat environment with an Ohmic spectrum in the framework of stochastic description. Moreover, we explore the possibility of protecting the geometric discord between the two qubits and prolonging the time during which the geometric discord remains constant by applying Bang-Bang pulses.
Resonance magnetoelectric effect in Ni/Pb(Zr,Ti)O3/Terfenol-D trilayered composites with different mechanical boundary conditions
Authors: Cheng J. H. , Wang Y. G. , Xie D.
Published: June 2014

Magnetoelectric Ni/Pb(Zr,Ti)O3 (PZT)/Tb1−xDyxFe2−y (Terfenol-D) trilayered composites were made up of negative magnetostrictive/piezoelectric/positive magnetostrictive layers, and bonded to nonmagnetic glass plates to obtain three different mechanical boundary conditions: (i) both ends of sample traction free (F-F), (ii) one end clamped while the other traction free (C-F), and (iii) both ends of sample clamped (C-C). In these three modes, various experimental values of resonance frequencies were obtained in 1–140 kHz range, which agree well with the calculated ones. In the C-F mode six resonance frequencies exist, which may be useful for multifrequency operation. The low resonance frequency of the C-F mode can be used to decrease the eddy current loss of the magnetostrictive phase and increase the lifetime of the devices.
Precipitation control and activation enhancement in boron-doped p+-BaSi2 films grown by molecular beam epitaxy
Authors: Khan M. Ajmal , Nakamura K. , Du W. , Toko K. , Usami N. , Suemasu T.
Published: June 2014

Precipitation free boron (B)-doped as-grown p+-BaSi2 layer is essential for the BaSi2 p-n junction solar cells. In this article, B-doped p-BaSi2 layers were grown by molecular beam epitaxy on Si(111) substrates, and the influence of substrate growth temperature (TS) and B temperature (TB) in the Knudsen cell crucible were investigated on the formation of B precipitates and the activation efficiency. The hole concentration, p, reached 1.0 × 1019 cm−3 at room temperature for TS = 600 and TB = 1550 °C. However, the activation rate of B was only 0.1%. Furthermore, the B precipitates were observed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). When the TS was raised to 650 °C and the TB was decreased to 1350 °C, the p reached 6.8 × 1019 cm−3, and the activation rate increased to more than 20%. No precipitation of B was also confirmed by TEM.
Nonlinear response of magnetic islands to localized electron cyclotron current injection
Authors: Borgogno D. , Comisso L. , Grasso D. , Lazzaro E.
Published: June 2014

The magnetic island evolution under the action of a current generated externally by electron cyclotron wave beams is studied using a reduced resistive magnetohydrodynamics plasma model. The use of a two-dimensional reconnection model shows novel features of the actual nonlinear evolution as compared to the zero-dimensional model of the generalized Rutherford equation. When the radio frequency control is applied to a small magnetic island, the complete annihilation of the island width is followed by a spatial phase shift of the island, referred as “flip” instability. On the other hand, a current-drive injection in a large nonlinear island can be accompanied by the occurrence of a Kelvin-Helmholtz instability. These effects need to be taken into account in designing tearing mode control systems based on radio frequency current-drive.
From Bypass to Bathtub: Backfiring Policy Labels in Dutch Water Governance
Authors: van Buuren Arwin , Warner Jeroen
Published: June 2014

The discursive framing of projects is an oft-used strategy to claim legitimacy and create support for proposed measures. By giving a project an appealing ‘label’, politicians and policy makers try to prevent criticism. However, policy labels are thrown out like ‘boomerangs' with a view to gaining leverage, resources, and legitimacy. The thrower, however, cannot control how the boomerang comes back. This paper sheds light on the consequences of these ‘backfiring labels' with the help of two illustrative case studies: a ‘calamity polder’ for controlled flood storage (Ooijpolder) and a ‘bypass' for the river IJssel near Kampen, respectively. Interestingly, the wider frames from which these labels originate differ and give rise to different dynamics, but with the same outcome: the label reaped the opposite effect. We analyze the way in which this process of strategic ‘labelling’ takes place, its discursive power, its impact on the governance process in question, and how policy makers react upon backfiring consequences.
Reframing the Role of Knowledge Parks and Science Cities in Knowledge-Based Urban Development
Authors: Benneworth Paul , Ratinho Tiago
Published: June 2014

Knowledge-based urban developments (KBUDs) are an increasingly common element of urban planning and strategy making: policy makers and developers set out to stimulate economic prosperity by promoting the integration and concentration of research, technology, and human capital. But KBUD is, by its advocates' own admission, a fuzzy concept, assuming that local physical development will drive urban upgrading within wider innovative production networks. We seek to address one element of this confusion by exploring how physical developments actively create innovative connections between local actors, drawing on the microscale science park and incubator literature. Using the case of one knowledge precinct, Kennispark in the east of the Netherlands, we investigate how active and passive elements of KBUDs drive integration of knowledge infrastructure in the urban fabric, as a prerequisite to building cross-city connections. On the basis of both qualitative and quantitative data, we conclude that there is a dynamic interrelation of proximity and connectivity within the precinct that contributes to building within-city knowledge communities that may in turn lead to improved cross-city connectivity and hence urban upgrading.
Performing Homeland Security within the US Immigrant Detention System
Authors: Hiemstra Nancy
Published: June 2014

This paper examines the critical role played by the US immigrant detention and deportation apparatus in the construction of contemporary imaginaries of homeland security. I argue that the detention system works performatively by substantiating a paradoxical relationship between security and insecurity for system employees. Through research conducted in Ecuador with detained migrants' families and deported migrants, I scrutinize the behavior of detention personnel and the experiences of detainees. Data illustrate how the US detention system becomes an integral part of the governmental apparatus behind homeland security imaginaries. First, employees are disciplined through the constant repetition of narratives in which immigrants are immoral and untrustworthy. Second, the detention system is structured in such a way as to require employees to perceive detainees as sources of insecurity, through inconsistent policies, conditions of detention, and high volume and mobility of detainees. Consequently, I contend, employees' interactions with detainees play an important and under-recognized role in performing homeland security imaginaries by perpetuating and reinforcing negative tropes of immigrants as criminalized, dangerous outsiders. The paper contributes to understanding ways in which multiple and overlapping governmentalities work recursively in the country's immigration apparatus, as well as shedding light on the typically opaque detention and deportation process.
Bringing Democracy Back Home: Community Localism and the Domestication of Political Space
Authors: Bradley Quintin
Published: June 2014

Strategies of localism have constituted the community as a metaphor for democracy and empowerment as part of a wider reordering of state institutions and state power. In conflating the smallest scale with increased participation, however, community localism provides a framework through which the power of sociospatial positioning might be made vulnerable to resistance and change. This paper identifies four spatial practices through which marginalised communities apply the technology of localism to challenge the limitations of their positioning and imprint promises of empowerment and democracy on space. Drawing on the work of Judith Butler, the paper theorises these practices as the incursion into the public realm of regulatory norms related to domestic and private spaces, rendering political space familiar and malleable, and suggesting that power and decision making can be brought within reach. It is argued that these spatial practices of community rehearse a more fundamental transformation of the political ordering of space than that authorised by the state strategies of localism.
The H.G. Smith Award Article: Fluorescent Analogues of NAMI-A: Synthesis, Characterisation, Fluorescent Properties, and Preliminary Biological Studies in Human Lung Cancer Cells
Authors: Antony Sumy , Morris Jonathan C. , Bell Toby D. M. , Brown Tracey , Spiccia Leone , Harris Hugh H.
Published: June 2014

Two new fluorescent ruthenium(iii) complexes, namely 7-azaindolium trans-tetrachlorido(7-azaindole)(dimethylsulfoxide)ruthen(iii)ate (F1) and N-[histaminedihydrolium]-1,8-naphthalenecarboximidic trans-tetracholoro(dimethylsulfoxide)(N-[histaminedihydro]-1,8-naphthalenecarboximide)ruthen(iii)ate (F2) and their respective tetramethylammonium analogues (F3 and F4) are reported herein. The compounds were characterised by elemental analysis, mass spectrometry, UV-vis spectrophotometry, and fluorescence spectroscopy. Molar extinction coefficients (ϵmax) and fluorescence emission spectra were compared to evaluate the electronic properties of the synthesised fluorescent analogues, and hence their value as intracellular fluorescence probes. F3 and F4 were synthesised and characterised in order to eliminate fluorescence arising from the counter-cations in F1 and F2 and thus to obtain a fluorescence quantum yield that reflects only a contribution from the metal complex anion. Half-inhibitory concentrations (IC50) were determined for A549 cells exposed to the Ru complexes for 24 h: F3 (203 ± 26 μM) and F4 (185 ± 20 μM).
Impacts of and interactions between environmental stress and epigenetic programming during early embryo development
Authors: Bertoldo Michael J. , Locatelli Yann , O'Neill Christopher , Mermillod Pascal
Published: June 2014

The processes of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) involve a variety of interventions that impact on the oocyte and embryo. Critically, these interventions cause considerable stress and coincide with important imprinting events throughout gametogenesis, fertilisation and early embryonic development. It is now accepted that the IVM and in vitro development of gametes and embryos can perturb the natural course of development to varying degrees of severity. Altered gene expression and, more recently, imprinting disorders relating to ART have become a focused area of research. Although various hypotheses have been put forward, most research has been observational, with little attempt to discover the mechanisms and periods of sensitivity during embryo development that are influenced by the culture conditions following fertilisation. The embryo possesses innate survival factor signalling pathways, yet when an embryo is placed in culture, this signalling in response to in vitro stress becomes critically important in mitigating the effects of stresses caused by the in vitro environment. It is apparent that not all embryos possess this ability to adequately adapt to the stresses experienced in vitro, most probably due to an inadequate oocyte. It is speculated that it is important that embryos use their survival signalling mechanisms to maintain normal epigenetic programming. The seeming redundancy in the function of various survival signalling pathways would support this notion. Any invasion into the natural, highly orchestrated and dynamic process of sexual reproduction could perturb the normal progression of epigenetic programming. Therefore the source of gametes and the subsequent culture conditions of gametes and embryos are critically important and require careful attention. It is the aim of this review to highlight avenues of research to elucidate the effects of stress and the relationship with epigenetic programming. The short- and long-term health and viability of human and animal embryos derived in vitro will also be discussed.
Corrigendum to: Can changes to pasture management reduce runoff and sediment loss to the Great Barrier Reef? The results of a 10-year study in the Burdekin catchment, Australia
Authors: Bartley Rebecca , Corfield Jeff P. , Hawdon Aaron A. , Kinsey-Henderson Anne E. , Abbott Brett N. , Wilkinson Scott N. , Keen Rex J.
Published: June 2014

Excess sediments from agricultural areas are having a detrimental impact on the Great Barrier Reef, and threaten the long-term viability of rangeland grazing. Changes to grazing management have been promoted as a mechanism for reducing excess sediment loss from grazed rangelands. This paper summarises the results of a 10-year study (2002–11) on a property in the Burdekin catchment that investigated the role of reduced stocking rates and rotational wet season resting on hill-slope and catchment runoff and sediment yields. Ground cover and pasture biomass were evaluated using on-ground surveys and remote sensing. During this study, average ground cover increased from ~35 to ~80% but pasture biomass was low due to the dominance of Bothriochloa pertusa (77% of composition). The percentage of deep-rooted perennial species increased from ~7% of pasture composition in 2002 to ~15% in 2011. This is still considerably lower than the percentage that occupied this property in 1979 (~78%). The increased ground cover resulted in progressively lower hill-slope runoff coefficients for the first event in each wet season, but annual catchment runoff did not respond significantly to the increasing ground cover during the study. Hill-slope and catchment sediment concentrations did decline with the increased ground cover, yet catchment sediment yields increased proportionally to annual runoff due to the contribution of sub-surface (scald, gully and bank) erosion. This study has demonstrated that changes to grazing management can reduce sediment concentrations leaving B. pertusa-dominated pastures, as B. pertusa is an effective controller of surface erosion. To further reduce the runoff that is fuelling gully and bank erosion, the proportion of deep-rooted native perennial grasses needs to be increased. It is argued that more than 10 years will be required to restore healthy eco-hydrological function to these previously degraded and low productivity rangelands. Even longer timescales will be needed to meet current targets for water quality.
Determination of carbonate-C in biochars
Authors: Wang Tao , Camps-Arbestain Marta , Hedley Mike , Singh Bhupinder Pal , Calvelo-Pereira Roberto , Wang Congying
Published: June 2014

Although carbonate-carbon (C), an integral part of biochar-C, contributes to the liming properties of that material, it also interferes with the estimation of the stable organic C fraction in biochars. In this study, four methods were compared in order to quantify the carbonate-C in biochars: two direct (a titrimetric procedure and thermogravimetric analysis, TGA), and two indirect (acid treatment with separation by filtration and acid fumigation). The titrimetric method showed a high recovery of added carbonate-C (average 98.8%, range 1.5–38 mg), and the standard deviations of carbonate-C for all biochars tested were <0.1% when 1 g of sample was used. The acid treatment with a filtration step overestimated the carbonate-C content (on average by a 4-fold increment) due to the loss of dissolved or fine particulate organic C during filtration. The acid fumigation method was suitable for biochars containing high amount of carbonate-C (>0.3% wt) and when the isotopic signature of organic C in biochars is to be determined. The TGA method (either in N2 or a dry air atmosphere) was reliable when calcite was the main carbonate form in biochars, but was inadequate for samples containing a considerable amount of whewellite and certain carbonate-bearing minerals (e.g. magnesite) that decompose at <600°C. Because more than half of the biochar samples investigated in the literature and in this study (58% of the 117 samples) contained <0.4% carbonate-C (and 38% of these contained no detectable carbonate-C), low-cost screening methods were developed to identify the biochars needed for carbonate-C analysis. For this purpose, two methods were proposed: (i) a manometric test; and (ii) a ratio between predicted fixed C : total C (FC/TC) and measured FC/TC, where predicted FC/TC was estimated using the following relationship: (FC/TC) = –0.1081(H/C)2 – 0.1794(H/C) + 1.0097, as derived from values obtained in the literature. A decision tree, including two steps (a screening step and a titrimetric procedure) could be used to determine accurately the carbonate-C in biochars.
Variation in platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) life-history attributes and population trajectories in urban streams
Authors: Serena M. , Williams G. A. , Weeks A. R. , Griffiths J.
Published: June 2014

An understanding of animal population dynamics relies on identifying life-history attributes associated with population growth and determining how these are affected by environmental variables. We analysed platypus population processes over a 10-year period through mark–recapture studies conducted in three spatially independent stream systems located in the suburbs of Melbourne, Australia. The three populations were collectively characterised by a slightly male-biased adult sex ratio (1.15 : 1) and relatively low reproductive success (<0.5 juvenile captured annually per adult female). An estimated 16% of core residents disappeared annually and 18% of marked juveniles were recaptured as adults. However, some demographic parameters (reproductive success, frequency of non-core adult captures) varied significantly among populations. Estimates of annual core population size in the three systems varied asynchronously, with different trajectories in population size potentially reflecting habitat differences (amount of urban development, reliability of surface flow) as well as variation in spatial isolation and catchment history (implementation of stream rehabilitation programs, occurrence of severe floods). Across all three populations, significant variability in annual reproductive success was explained by linear relationships with the amount of rainfall recorded in the five months before breeding (positive) and after juveniles emerge from nesting burrows (negative).
Silenced in Childhood: A Survivor of Abuse Finds her Voice through Group Dramatherapy
Authors: Morris Nicky
Published: June 2014

This article follows the story of Bella, a woman in her mid-thirties. Haunted by memories of sexual child abuse, she suffers from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, depression and anxiety. Bella's diagnosis is Borderline Personality Disorder, with a long history of serious self-harm and hospitalisation. Her creative journey began on a secure ward for women with BPD, where she attended my weekly Dramatherapy Group for seven months. We then worked together for a further 18 months at a secure step-down unit for women with challenging psychiatric disorders. Now living in the community, Bella is keen to share how Dramatherapy helped her towards recovery, together with 1:1 psychology, DBT and the support of a local church group. Her name and all location details have been disguised. Dramatherapy gave Bella the freedom to play like a child, whilst metaphor offered her a symbolic new language through which to understand and vocalise her feelings. Her journey is an emotional rollercoaster, revealing the potential for group Dramatherapy for adults who have survived the trauma of child abuse and are still fighting for freedom. Bella's courage and determination are inspiring and excerpts of her poetry are interspersed throughout the article, together with references to relevant literature.
Brassinosteroid-related transcription factor BIL1/BZR1 increases plant resistance to insect feeding
Authors: Miyaji Tomoko , Yamagami Ayumi , Kume Nao , Sakuta Masaaki , Osada Hiroyuki , Asami Tadao , Arimoto Yutaka , Nakano Takeshi
Published: June 2014

The plant steroid hormones brassinosteroids (BRs) play important roles in plant growth and responses to stresses. The up-regulation of pathogen resistance by BR signaling has been analyzed, but the relationship between BR and insect herbivores remains largely unclear. BIL1/BZR1 is a BR master transcription factor known to be involved in the regulation of plant development through work conducted on a gain of function mutation. Here, we analyzed the function of BIL1/BZR1 in response to insect feeding and demonstrated that resistance against thrip feeding was increased in the bil1-1D/bzr1-1D mutant compared to wild-type. We generated Lotus japonicus transgenic plants that over-express the Arabidopsis bil1/bzr1 mutant, Lj-bil1/bzr1-OX. The Lj-bil1/bzr1-OX plants showed increased resistance to thrip feeding. The expression levels of the jasmoninc acid (JA)-inducible VSP genes were increased in both Arabidopsis bil1-1D/bzr1-1D mutants and L. japonicus Lj-bil1/bzr1-OX plants. The resistance to thrip feeding caused by the BIL1/BZR1 gene may involve JA signaling.
Regio- and stereoselective oxygenation of proline derivatives by using microbial 2-oxoglutarate-dependent dioxygenases
Authors: Hara Ryotaro , Uchiumi Naoko , Okamoto Naoko , Kino Kuniki
Published: June 2014

We evaluated the substrate specificities of four proline cis-selective hydroxylases toward the efficient synthesis of proline derivatives. In an initial evaluation, 15 proline-related compounds were investigated as substrates. In addition to l-proline and l-pipecolinic acid, we found that 3,4-dehydro-l-proline, l-azetidine-2-carboxylic acid, cis-3-hydroxy-l-proline, and l-thioproline were also oxygenated. Subsequently, the product structures were determined, revealing cis-3,4-epoxy-l-proline, cis-3-hydroxy-l-azetidine-2-carboxylic acid, and 2,3-cis-3,4-cis-3,4-dihydroxy-l-proline.
Enhancement of RNA annealing and strand displacement found in archaeal ribonuclease P proteins is conserved in Escherichia coli protein C5 and yeast protein Rpr2
Authors: Furutani Takashi , Hazeyama Kohsuke , Ueda Toshifumi , Tomita Satoko , Imai Takayoshi , Nakashima Takashi , Kakuta Yoshimitsu , Kimura Makoto
Published: June 2014

We analyzed modes of action of ribonuclease P (RNase P) proteins, C5 in Escherichia coli and Rpr2 in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, using a pair of complementary fluorescence-labeled oligoribonucleotides. Fluorescence resonance energy transfer-based assays revealed that RNA annealing and strand displacement activities found in archaeal RNase P proteins are prevalent in eubacterial (C5) and eukaryotic (Rpr2) RNase P proteins.
Production of a pharmaceutical intermediate via biohydroxylation using whole cells ofRhodococcus rubropertinctusN82
Authors: Kimura Takatoshi , Ishikawa Chihiro , Osorio-Lozada Antonio , Robins Karen T , Hibi Makoto , Ogawa Jun
Published: June 2014

Rhodococcus rubropertinctus N82 possesses unique regiospecific hydroxylation activity in biotransformation of compounds. In this study, the ability of whole cells of the strain R. rubropertinctus N82 in biotransformation was studied. The hydroxylation activity resulted in transforming 6,7-dihydro-4H-thieno[3,2-c]-pyridine-5-carboxylic acid tert-butyl ester (LS1) into 2-hydroxy-6,7-dihydro-4H-thieno[3,2-c]-pyridine-5-carboxylic acid tert-butyl ester (LP1), a pharmaceutical intermediate. By optimizing conditions for the hydroxylating biotransformation using whole cells of R. rubropertinctus N82 as biocatalyst, 3.3 mM LP1 was successfully produced from 4 mM LS1 with a molar yield of 83%. Thus, effective method was newly developed to produce LP1, which is a synthetic intermediate of a platelet inhibitor active pharmaceutical ingredient drug, prasugrel.
Does the brassinosteroid signal pathway in photomorphogenesis overlap with the gravitropic response caused by auxin?
Authors: Jaroensanti Naiyanate , Yoon Jung-Min , Nakai Yuji , Shirai Ikuya , Otani Masato , Park Seung-Hyun , Hayashi Ken-ichiro , Nakajima Masatoshi , Asami Tadao
Published: June 2014

Brassinosteroid (BR) and auxin co-regulate plant growth in a process termed cross-talking. Based on the assumption that their signal transductions are partially shared, inhibitory chemicals for both signal transductions were screened from a commercially available library. A chemical designated as NJ15 (ethyl 2-[5-(3,5-dichlorophenyl)-1,2,3,4-tetrazole-2-yl]acetate) diminished the growth promotion of both adzuki bean epicotyls and Arabidopsis seedlings, by the application of either BR or auxin. To understand its target site(s), bioassays with a high dependence on the signal transduction of either BR (BR-signaling) or auxin (AX-signaling) were performed. NJ15 inhibited the photomorphogenesis of Arabidopsis seedlings grown in the dark, which mainly depends on BR-signaling, while NJ15 also inhibited their gravitropic responses mainly depending on AX-signaling. On the study for the structure–activity relationships of NJ15 analogs, they showed strong correlations on the inhibitory profiles between BR- and AX-signalings. These correlations imply that NJ15 targets the downstream pathway after the integration of BR- and AX-signals.
Effects of deer bone extract on the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokine and cartilage-related genes in monosodium iodoacetate-induced osteoarthritic rats
Authors: Lee Hyunji , Choi Hyeon-Son , Park Yooheon , Ahn Chang Won , Jung Sung Ug , Park Soo Hyun , Suh Hyung Joo
Published: June 2014

Deer bone extract has the potential to relieve the discomfort or the articular cartilaginous damage associated with osteoarthritic (OA) and may be useful as a natural supplement for OA treatment without serious side effects. We analyzed the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokine and cartilage-related genes in monosodium iodoacetate-induced OA rats. Increases in the levels of serum pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α were significantly inhibited by the administration of deer bone extract (p < 0.05). Decreases in the expression of collagen type II (COL2) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) mRNAs in the cartilage were significantly inhibited by deer bone extract treatment (p < 0.05). The deer bone extract significantly suppressed the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) mRNAs in the cartilage. The deer bone extract induced the up-regulation of COL2 and TIMP mRNAs and the down-regulation of MMP mRNAs by suppressing the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokine mRNAs.
Pollen Typhae total flavone improves insulin resistance in high-fat diet and low-dose streptozotocin-induced type 2 diabetic rats
Authors: Feng Xiao-Tao , Chen Qun , Xie Zhen , Liang Xiao , Jiang Ze-Hui , Zhao Wei , Leng Jing
Published: June 2014

Pollen Typhae total flavone (PTF), the extract from Pollen Typhae, is reported to enhance glucose uptake in C2C12 myotubes in vitro, but the convincing evidence is lacking in vivo. In this study, PTF ameliorated insulin resistance and dyslipidemia, but failed to significantly increase body weight in type 2 diabetic rats induced by high-fat diet and low-dose streptozotocin.
The multi-herbal formula Chong-Myung-Tang improves spatial memory and increases cell genesis in the dentate gyrus of aged mice
Authors: Liu Lei , Zhang Mingwei , Zhang Ruifen , Lee Mira , Wang Zhen , Hou Jingang , Sung Chang-Keun
Published: June 2014

Chong-Myung-Tang (CMT) is a multi-herbal formula that has been used to improve memory. However, the potential mechanism remains unknown. The present study investigated the effects of CMT (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg) on spatial memory of aged mice. The behavioral training tests indicated that 200 mg/kg CMT treatment can significantly improve spatial memory of aged mice in the Morris water maze. Moreover, cell survival was examined by injecting bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) on the first three days. The result showed that 200 mg/kg CMT treatment significantly increased cell survival in the dentate gyrus. Cell proliferation was determined by injecting BrdU 2 h before the mice were killed. The result suggested that CMT treatments had no influence on cell proliferation in the dentate gyrus. Thus, an increase in cell survival in the dentate gyrus stimulated by CMT may be involved in the effect of CMT on spatial memory improvement.
The enhancing effect of fucoidan derived from Undaria pinnatifida on immunoglobulin production by mouse spleen lymphocytes
Authors: Takai Mika , Miyazaki Yoshiyuki , Tachibana Hirofumi , Yamada Koji
Published: June 2014

In this study, we revealed that a Mekabu (Udaria pinnantifida) extract enhanced immunoglobulin (Ig) production of mouse spleen lymphocytes. Furthermore, it was suggested that water-soluble and high molecular weight ingredients in the Mekabu extract have significant enhancing effect on Ig production. Therefore, fucoidan was estimated as the active component.
Late-maturing cooking riceSensyurakuhas excellent properties, equivalent to sake rice, for high-quality sake brewing
Authors: Anzawa Yoshihiko , Satoh Kenji , Satoh Yuko , Ohno Satomi , Watanabe Tsutomu , Katsumata Kazuaki , Kume Kazunori , Watanabe Ken-ichi , Mizunuma Masaki , Hirata Dai
Published: June 2014

Low protein content and sufficient grain rigidity are desired properties for the rice used in high-quality sake brewing such as Daiginjo-shu (polishing ratio of the rice, less than 50%). Two kinds of rice, sake rice (SR) and cooking rice (CR), have been used for sake brewing. Compared with those of SR, analyses of CR for high-quality sake brewing using highly polished rice have been limited. Here we described the original screening of late-maturing CR Sensyuraku (SEN) as rice with low protein content and characterization of its properties for high-quality sake brewing. The protein content of SEN was lower than those of SR Gohyakumangoku (GOM) and CR Yukinosei (YUK), and its grain rigidity was higher than that of GOM. The excellent properties of SEN with respect to both water-adsorption and enzyme digestibility were confirmed using a Rapid Visco Analyzer (RVA). Further, we confirmed a clear taste of sake produced from SEN by sensory evaluation. Thus, SEN has excellent properties, equivalent to those of SR, for high-quality sake brewing.
Seal Induced Injuries on Adult Atlantic Salmon Returning to Maine
Authors: Kusnierz Paul C. , Trial Joan G. , Cox Oliver N. , Saunders Rory
Published: June 2014

Seals (Phocidae) are known predators of Atlantic Salmon Salmo salar from their entry into the estuary as smolts until their return to freshwater as adults. We developed a written protocol for identifying seal induced injuries on adult Atlantic Salmon returning to Maine rivers. The protocol, which includes photos and category definitions, has been used since 2006 by Maine Department of Marine Resources biologists when handling adult Atlantic Salmon at the Veazie Dam fishway on the Penobscot River and at other adult capture facilities in Maine. The written protocol has ensured that reporting is consistent among years and rivers; photos of wounds serve as quality assurance for the protocol. For adults returning to the Penobscot River in 2006 and 2007, seal induced injuries were more likely to be found on two sea winter fish; to appear as gashes or arched wounds; to be open rather than healed; and to occur on the center third of the body below the lateral line. Larger two sea winter fish (>67 cm FL) returning to the Penobscot River early in the run (May–early July) were more likely to have a seal induced injury. Injury rates increased from 1978 to 2010; this increase was correlated with seal aerial counts for the Gulf of Maine and Penobscot Bay. From 2006 to 2010, the annual seal induced injury rate for Atlantic Salmon in six Maine rivers (including the Penobscot River) ranged from 0.00 to 0.30 across rivers. Rates of injury on Atlantic Salmon for all years combined did not differ among the six rivers, but low power likely affected our ability to detect any differences.

Received July 25, 2013; accepted February 5, 2014
E-cadherin phosphorylation occurs during its biosynthesis to promote its cell surface stability and adhesion
Authors: McEwen Abbye E. , Maher Meghan T. , Mo Rigen , Gottardi Cara J.
Published: June 2014

E-cadherin is highly phosphorylated within its β-catenin–binding region, and this phosphorylation increases its affinity for β-catenin in vitro. However, the identification of key serines responsible for most cadherin phosphorylation and the adhesive consequences of modification at such serines have remained unknown. In this study, we show that as few as three serines in the β-catenin–binding domain of E-cadherin are responsible for most radioactive phosphate incorporation. These serines are required for binding to β-catenin and the mutual stability of both E-cadherin and β-catenin. Cells expressing a phosphodeficient (3S>A) E-cadherin exhibit minimal cell–cell adhesion due to enhanced endocytosis and degradation through a lysosomal compartment. Conversely, negative charge substitution at these serines (3S>D) antagonizes cadherin endocytosis and restores wild-type levels of adhesion. The cadherin kinase is membrane proximal and modifies the cadherin before it reaches the cell surface. Together these data suggest that E-cadherin phosphorylation is largely constitutive and integral to cadherin–catenin complex formation, surface stability, and function.
So you want to be a science writer
Authors: Fleischman John , Szalinski Christina
Published: June 2014

The Internet destroyed the ecology of traditional science journalism, drying up ad revenues and pushing “old school” mass media toward extinction. But the new technology opened a wider landscape for digital science writers, online “content curators,” and scientists to chronicle the wonders and worries of modern science. For those thinking of a career in science writing, here is a flash history, a quick overview, some advice, and a few cautions.
Impact of fluorescence-guided surgery on the improvement of clinical outcomes in glioblastoma patients
Authors: Kim Sung Kwon , Choi Seung Hong , Kim Yong Hwy , Park Chul-Kee
Published: June 2014

Background

To evaluate the clinical impact of fluorescence-guided surgery (FGS) in glioblastoma, we analyzed the clinical data of 80 consecutive patients operated on by a single surgeon with or without 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA).

Methods

We compared 3-dimensional volumetric extent of resection and clinical outcomes between 40 consecutive patients undergoing resection using a white-light (WL) microscope and 40 subsequent consecutive patients undergoing resection using FGS with 5ALA.

Results

By introducing FGS, there was a significant difference in the mean volumetric extent of the resection rate of T1-enhancing lesions (84.7% in the white-light group and 97.0% in the 5-ALA group, P = .002). The complete resection rate was improved from 43% to 80%, and the proportion of resections that were <80% was reduced from 26% to 4% by FGS. The median progression-free survival was significantly better in the 5-ALA group (18.0 months vs. 6.0 months; P = .001). Although the immediate postoperative functional status was slightly worse in the 5-ALA group, this trend had reversed itself by 3 months postoperatively.

Conclusions

The present study adds practical evidence of the clinical impact of 5-ALA FGS on glioblastomas from the surgeon's standpoint.
Glycocaulis albus sp. nov., a moderately halophilic dimorphic prosthecate bacterium isolated from petroleum-contaminated saline soil
Authors: Lv Xiang-Lin , Xie Bai-Sheng , Cai Man , Geng Shuang , Tang Yue-Qin , Wang Ya-Nan , Cui Heng-Lin , Liu Xue-Ying , Ye Si-Yuan , Wu Xiao-Lei
Published: June 2014

Two novel bacterial strains, SLG210-30A1T and SLG210-19A2, which shared 99.9 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity with each other, were isolated from petroleum-contaminated saline soil in Shengli Oilfield, eastern China. Cells were Gram-stain-negative, motile, aerobic, mesophilic and moderately halophilic. They could grow chemoheterotrophically with oxygen as an electron acceptor. Morphologically, cells were typical Caulobacteria-type dimorphic prosthecate bacteria. The genomic DNA G+C contents of strains SLG210-30A1T and SLG210-19A2 were 61.8 mol% and 61.6 mol% respectively. Strain SLG210-30A1T had Q10 as the predominant respiratory ubiquinone, and C16 : 0 (28.4 %), C17 : 0 (11.6 %), C18 : 0 (22.1 %) and C18 : 1ω7c (14.0 %) as the major cellular fatty acids. The polar lipids of the two isolates were some glycolipids, a lipid, a phospholipid, an aminoglycolipid and an aminophospholipid (all unidentified). The 16S rRNA gene sequences of strains SLG210-30A1T and SLG210-19A2 showed the highest similarities with

Glycocaulis abyssi

MCS 33T (99.8–99.9 %), but low sequence similarities (<94.7 %) with type strains of other members of the family

Hyphomonadaceae

. However, the DNA–DNA relatedness of

G. abyssi

MCS 33T to strains SLG210-30A1T and SLG210-19A2 was 37.4±4.4 % and 36.1±1.1 %, respectively. Based on different physiological, biochemical, and phylogenetic characteristics, strains SLG210-30A1T and SLG210-19A2 represent a novel species of the genus

Glycocaulis

. The name Glycocaulis albus is therefore proposed with strain SLG210-30A1T ( = LMG 27741T = CGMCC 1.12766T) as the type strain. An emended description of the genus

Glycocaulis

is also provided.
Virulence genes of Helicobacter pylori in the Dominican Republic
Authors: Shiota Seiji , Cruz Modesto , Abreu José A. Jiménez , Mitsui Takahiro , Terao Hideo , Disla Mildre , Iwatani Shun , Nagashima Hiroyuki , Matsuda Miyuki , Uchida Tomohisa , Tronilo Lourdes , Rodríguez Eduardo , Yamaoka Yoshio
Published: June 2014

Although the incidence of gastric cancer in the Dominican Republic is not high, the disease remains a significant health problem. We first conducted a detailed analysis ofHelicobacter pyloristatus in the Dominican Republic. In total, 158 patients (103 females and 55 males; mean age 47.1±16.2 years) were recruited. The status ofH. pyloriinfection was determined based on four tests: rapid urease test, culture test, histological test and immunohistochemistry. The status ofcagAandvacAgenotypes inH. pyloriwas examined using PCR and gene sequencing. The overall prevalence ofH. pyloriinfection was 58.9 %. No relationship was found between theH. pyloriinfection rate and the age range of 17–91 years. Even in the youngest group (patients aged <29 years), theH. pyloriinfection rate was 62.5 %. Peptic ulcer was found in 23 patients and gastric cancer was found in one patient. TheH. pyloriinfection rate in patients with peptic ulcer was significantly higher than that in patients with gastritis (82.6 versus 54.5 %,P<0.01). ThecagA-positive/vacAs1m1 genotype was the most prevalent (43/64, 67.2 %). Compared withH. pylori-negative patients,H. pylori-positive patients showed more severe gastritis. Furthermore, the presence ofcagAwas related to the presence of more severe gastritis. All CagA-positive strains had Western-type CagA. In conclusion, we found thatH. pyloriinfection is a risk factor for peptic ulcer in the Dominican Republic. Patients withcagA-positiveH. pyloricould be at higher risk for severe inflammation and atrophy.