bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Magnetic field resilient superconducting fractal resonators for coupling to free spins
Authors: Graaf S. E. de , Danilov A. V. , Adamyan A. , Bauch T. , Kubatkin S. E.
Published: December 2012

We demonstrate a planar superconducting microwave resonator intended for use in applications requiring strong magnetic fields and high quality factors. In perpendicular magnetic fields of 20 mT, the niobium resonators maintain a quality factor above 25 000 over a wide range of applied powers, down to single photon population. In parallel field, the same quality factor is observed above 160 mT, the field required for coupling to free spins at a typical operating frequency of 5 GHz. We attribute the increased performance to the current branching in the fractal design. We demonstrate that our device can be used for spectroscopy by measuring the dissipation from a pico-mole of molecular spins.
Band engineering of Ni1−xMgxO alloys for photocathodes of high efficiency dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Deng Junkai , Mortazavi Majid , Medhekar N. V. , Zhe Liu Jefferson
Published: December 2012

Density functional theory calculations were carried out for Ni1−xMgxO alloys using both GGA+U method and hybrid exchange-correlation functional HSE06. We find that the band gap of Ni1−xMgxO is a nonlinear function of MgO concentration with a strong bowing behavior at high Mg content. Band edge alignment is determined using heterojunction superlattice models. The valence-band-maximum of Ni1−xMgxO is shown to be tunable within a range of 0.90 eV. By comparing with the highest-occupied-molecular-orbital levels of some of the most widely used dye molecules, we propose that Ni1−xMgxO is a promising alternate to replace NiO photocathode in dye-sensitized solar cells with an enhanced open-circuit voltage and transparency of cathode films.
Ultrafast transient spectroscopy of nano-domains of polymer/fullerene blend for organic photovoltaic applications
Authors: Singh Sanjeev , Pandit Bill , Hukic-Markosian Golda , Basel Tek P. , Valy Vardeny Z. , Li Sergey , Laird Darin
Published: December 2012

We measured the picoseconds (ps) transient photomodulation (PM) dynamics of photoexcitations in blends of regio-regular poly(3-hexyl-thiophene) [RR-P3HT] (donors-D) and indene-C60 bisadduct (fullerene derivative) [ICBA] (acceptor-A) that phase-separate into D- and A-nano-domains, in a broad spectral range from 0.25 to 2.5 eV; in comparison with steady state PM spectra. We correlate our measurements with organic photovoltaic solar cell performance made from the same D and A materials. In D-A blends of RR-P3HT/ICBA with (1.2:1) weight ratio having solar cell power conversion efficiency of ∼5.1%, we found that although the intrachain excitons in the polymer nano-domains decay within ∼10 ps, no charge polarons are generated on their expense up to ∼1 ns. Instead, there is a built-up of charge-transfer (CT) excitons at the D-A domain interfaces that occurs with the same kinetics as the exciton decay. The CT excitons dissociate into separate polarons in the D- and A-nano-domains at a much later time (≫1 ns). This “two-step” charge photogeneration process is typical in organic bulk heterojunction cells. Our results emphasize the important role of the CT state in generating free charge polarons in organic solar cells.
Universality proof and analysis of generalized nested Uhrig dynamical decoupling
Authors: Kuo Wan-Jung , Quiroz Gregory , Paz-Silva Gerardo Andres , Lidar Daniel A.
Published: December 2012

Nested Uhrig dynamical decoupling (NUDD) is a highly efficient quantum error suppression scheme that builds on optimized single axis UDD sequences. We prove the universality of NUDD and analyze its suppression of different error types in the setting of generalized control pulses. We present an explicit lower bound for the decoupling order of each error type, which we relate to the sequence orders of the nested UDD layers. We find that the error suppression capabilities of NUDD are strongly dependent on the parities and relative magnitudes of all nested UDD sequence orders. This allows us to predict the optimal arrangement of sequence orders. We test and confirm our analysis using numerical simulations.
Predictive calculation of the lattice thermal conductivity with temperature-dependent vibrational parameters
Authors: Alameh Z. , Kazan M.
Published: December 2012

This paper presents a predictive model for the lattice thermal conductivity. The model is based on Callaway's solution to the Boltzmann equation for phonons which discriminates between the natures of the resistive and nonresistive phonon processes. However, the present model uses temperature-dependent lattice vibrational parameters and sound group velocities calculated on the basis of a dynamical matrix. No adjustment to thermal conductivity measurements is required. The model requires only the material mechanical properties as inputs to yield the material thermal conductivity as a function of temperature. A precise transmission probability function is introduced in the model in order to widen its application for the cases where interfaces are present. The importance of all the features of the developed model is demonstrated clearly with reference to reported data regarding the effects of surface orientation and isotope composition in single crystals, the effect of alloy composition in alloys, and the effect of grains boundaries in polycrystals. Namely, the developed model accounts for (i) the effects of surface orientation and isotope composition on the thermal conductivity of silicon and germanium single crystals, (ii) the effect of alloy composition on the thermal conductivity of silicon-germanium alloys, and (iii) the effect of phonon scattering at grains boundaries on the thermal conductivity of polycrystalline silicon.
Characteristic particle trajectories for an eigenfunction
Authors: Elçi A.
Published: December 2012

The jet space of the Schrödinger equation and Noether's theorem are used to determine a set of particle trajectories that belong exclusively to an eigenfunction. These trajectories depend on a vector field $\vec{\mathcal {A}}$A⃗ which satisfies two partial differential equations. Characteristic trajectories exist for all eigenfunctions, including those for which probability current densities vanish. This paper mathematically demonstrates Einstein's assertion that a wave function is not a complete description of a particle's physical state.
Origin of magnetic anisotropy in ZnO/CoFe2O4 and CoO/CoFe2O4 core/shell nanoparticle systems
Authors: Winkler Elin L. , Lima Enio , Tobia Dina , Saleta Martín E. , Troiani Horacio E. , Agostinelli Elisabetta , Fiorani Dino , Zysler Roberto D.
Published: December 2012

ZnO-core/CoFe2O4-shell nanoparticles of 7.4 nm average size have been synthesized and their magnetic properties have been compared to those of CoO-core/CoFe2O4-shell nanoparticles with similar morphology. The coercive field values are much lower than those for CoO/CoFe2O4 nanoparticles (e.g., at 5 K: Hc = 7.8 kOe for ZnO/CoFe2O4; Hc = 27.8 kOe for CoO/CoFe2O4). The nature of the coercive field values is explained by a phenomenological model for the free energy of a non-magnetic core, or an antiferromagnetic core, encapsulated by a hard ferrimagnetic shell.
Electroacoustic response of 1-3 piezocomposite transducers for high power applications
Authors: Jae Lee Hyeong , Zhang Shujun , Geng Xuecang , Shrout Thomas R.
Published: December 2012

The electroacoustic performance of 1-3 piezoelectric composite transducers with low loss polymer filler was studied and compared to monolithic Pb(Zr,Ti)O3 (PZT) piezoelectric transducers. The 1-3 composite transducers exhibited significantly high electromechanical coupling factor (kt ∼ 0.64) when compared to monolithic counterparts (kt ∼ 0.5), leading to the improved bandwidth and loop sensitivity, being on the order of 67% and −24.0 dB versus 44% and −24.8 dB, respectively. In addition, the acoustic output power and transmit efficiency (∼50%) were found to be comparable to the monolithic PZT transducers, demonstrating potential for broad bandwidth, high power ultrasonic transducer applications.
Giant enhancement of H2S gas response by decorating n-type SnO2 nanowires with p-type NiO nanoparticles
Authors: Van Hieu Nguyen , Thi Hong Van Phung , Tien Nhan Le , Van Duy Nguyen , Duc Hoa Nguyen
Published: December 2012

Metal oxide nanowires (NWs) are widely considered as promising materials for gas sensor applications. Here, we demonstrate that by decorating NiO nanoparticles on SnO2 NWs, the gas response to 10 ppm H2S increased up to ∼351-fold. The response of the NiO-decorated SnO2 NWs sensor to 10 ppm H2S at 300 °C reached ∼1372, whereas the cross-gas responses to 5 ppm NH3, 200 ppm C2H5OH, and 1 ppm NO2 were negligible (1.8 to 2.9). The enhanced H2S sensing performance was attributed by the catalytic effect of NiO and the formation of a continuous chain of n-p-n-p junctions.
The electronic property of graphene adsorbed on the siloxane and silanol surface structures of SiO2: A theoretical prediction
Authors: Yang Chi-Jen , Huang Shu-Jiuan , Kuo Chin-Lung
Published: December 2012

Using density functional theory calculations, we have investigated the effect of specific surface structures on the electronic properties of a graphene layer on the SiO2 substrate. Our results show that graphene monolayer is weakly bound to the siloxane and silanol surfaces via the van der Waals interactions with a binding energy of around 20%–40% of that in graphite. Our calculations also show that the silanol groups on the surface can induce significant valence charge redistribution in the interfacial region as well as on the graphene layer, which appear like the scattering centers that may degrade the carrier mobility in graphene. Nevertheless, we found no doping effect on graphene from the substrate for both the siloxane and silanol surface structures.
Comparative study on the atmospheric pressure plasma jets of helium and argon
Authors: Shao Xian-Jun , Jiang Nan , Zhang Guan-Jun , Cao Ze-xian
Published: December 2012

Formation mechanisms for atmospheric pressure plasma jets (APPJ) of He and Ar are investigated by comparing the discharge current, light emission from jet, and time-resolved image of the discharge. A longer jet of He (Ar) is available with active (ground) electrode sitting at downstream side. The jet of He outside active electrode arises from corona discharge, while that of Ar outside ground electrode results from charge overflow, and can be diffusive or filamentous in different phases of the applied voltage. The underlying mechanisms are discussed. These results can be helpful for the further mechanism investigation and implementation of APPJs.
Luminescence properties of Sm3+ doped YPO4: Effect of solvent, heat-treatment, Ca2+/W6+-co-doping and its hyperthermia application
Authors: Dutta Dimple P. , Ningthoujam R. S. , Tyagi A. K.
Published: December 2012

Sm3+ doped YPO4 spherical nanoparticles are prepared by wet chemical route. Pure YPO4 shows the tetragonal phase, which is stable up to 900 °C, whereas pure SmPO4 shows the phase transition from hexagonal to monoclinic when heated above 800 °C. The (2-10 at.%) Sm3+ doped YPO4 shows the mixture of phases of tetragonal and hexagonal, which transform to the tetragonal phase above 800 °C. Infra-red study could distinguish confined water in the pore of hexagonal phase from water present on the surface of particles. Luminescence intensities of Sm3+ at 564, 601 and 645 nm are weak in case of as-prepared samples because of high non-radiative rate arising from the H2O molecules present in pores of hexagonal lattice. The intensities increase for samples heated up to 900 °C because of increase of extent of radiative rate. Luminescence lifetime increases with increase of heat-treatment up to 900 °C. When solvent of as-prepared sample was changed from the H2O to D2O, 5 times enhancement in luminescence intensity is observed, which can be ascribed to the lower vibration energy of D-O over H-O, which is near to Sm3+. When Y3+ and P5+ ions are substituted by Ca3+ and W3+ up to 3 at.%, there is an enhancement of luminescence. In order to use them as bio-labeling in drug delivery for hyperthermia applications, hybrid of Fe3O4@YPO4:7Sm is prepared and heating up to 45 °C is observed under AC magnetic field.
A Common Scheme for Cross-Sensory Correspondences across Stimulus Domains
Authors: Walker Laura , Walker Peter , Francis Brian
Published: December 2012

Following Karwoski, Odbert, and Osgood (1942, Journal of General Psychology 26 199–222), it is proposed that cross-sensory correspondences can arise from extensive, bi-directional cross-activation between dimensions of connotative meaning. If this account is correct, the same set of cross-sensory correspondences (eg brightness with high pitch, high pitch with sharpness, smallness with brightness) should emerge regardless of the sensory channel (auditory, visual, or tactile) that is probed. To test this prediction, participants rated a range of auditory, visual, and tactile stimuli on a series of rating scales relating to different dimensions of connotative meaning. With only a few minor exceptions, the same set of cross-sensory correspondences emerged from all types of stimulus variation. This supports the suggestion that cross-sensory correspondences can reflect reciprocal interactions between dimensions of connotative meaning, and indicates that Spence's (2011, Attention, Perception, & Psychophysics 73 971–995) theoretical framework might be usefully extended to include semantically-based correspondences.
Visual Impressions of Pushing and Pulling: The Object Perceived as Causal is Not Always the One That Moves First
Authors: White Peter A
Published: December 2012

Stimuli were presented in which a moving object (A) contacted a stationary object (B), whereupon both objects moved back in the direction from which object A had come. When object B rapidly decelerated to a standstill, so that the two objects did not remain in contact, object B was perceived as pushing object A. Thus, even though object B only moved when contacted by object A, it was perceived as the causal object, as making something happen to object A. This is contrary to the hypothesis that the object perceived as causal is always the object that moves first. It is, however, consistent with a theoretical account, in which visual causal impressions occur through a process in which visually picked-up kinematic information is matched to stored representations, based on experiences of actions on objects, which specify forces and causality as part of the perceptual interpretation of the event.
Comprehensive evaluation of DNA barcoding for the molecular species identification of forensically important Australian Sarcophagidae (Diptera)
Authors: Meiklejohn Kelly A. , Wallman James F. , Cameron Stephen L. , Dowton Mark
Published: December 2012

Carrion-breeding Sarcophagidae (Diptera) can be used to estimate the post-mortem interval in forensic cases. Difficulties with accurate morphological identifications at any life stage and a lack of documented thermobiological profiles have limited their current usefulness. The molecular-based approach of DNA barcoding, which utilises a 648-bp fragment of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunitI gene, was evaluated in a pilot study for discrimination between 16 Australian sarcophagids. The current study comprehensively evaluated barcoding for a larger taxon set of 588 Australian sarcophagids. In total, 39 of the 84 known Australian species were represented by 580 specimens, which includes 92% of potentially forensically important species. A further eight specimens could not be identified, but were included nonetheless as six unidentifiable taxa. A neighbour-joining tree was generated and nucleotide sequence divergences were calculated. All species except Sarcophaga (Fergusonimyia) bancroftorum, known for high morphological variability, were resolved as monophyletic (99.2% of cases), with bootstrap support of 100. Excluding S. bancroftorum, the mean intraspecific and interspecific variation ranged from 1.12% and 2.81–11.23%, respectively, allowing for species discrimination. DNA barcoding was therefore validated as a suitable method for molecular identification of Australian Sarcophagidae, which will aid in the implementation of this fauna in forensic entomology.
Challenging species delimitation in Collembola: cryptic diversity among common springtails unveiled by DNA barcoding
Authors: Porco D. , Bedos A. , Greenslade Penelope , Janion C. , Skarżyński D. , Stevens M. I. , Jansen van Vuuren B. , Deharveng L.
Published: December 2012

Collembola is one of the major functional groups in soil as well as a model taxon in numerous disciplines. Therefore the accurate identification of specimens is critical, but could be jeopardised by cases of cryptic diversity. Several populations of six well characterised species of springtails were sequenced using the COI barcode fragment as a contribution to the global Collembola barcoding campaign. Each species showed high intraspecific divergence, comparable to interspecific sequence divergence values observed in previous studies and in 10 congeneric species barcoded here as a reference. The nuclear marker, 28S, confirmed all the intraspecific lineages found with COI, supporting the potential specific status of these entities. The implications of this finding for taxonomy and for disciplines relying on species names, such as evolution and ecology, are discussed.
Investigating the taxonomy and systematics of marine wood borers (Bivalvia : Teredinidae) combining evidence from morphology, DNA barcodes and nuclear locus sequences
Authors: Borges L. M. S. , Sivrikaya H. , le Roux A. , Shipway J. R. , Cragg S. M. , Costa F. O.
Published: December 2012

Marine wood-boring teredinids, some of the most destructive wood borers in the sea, are a particularly difficult group to identify from morphological features. While in most bivalve species shell features are used as diagnostic characters, in the teredinids shell morphology shows high intraspecific variation and thus identification is based almost entirely on the morphology of the pallets. In the present study we aimed at improving ‘taxonomic resolution’ in teredinids by combining morphological evidence with mitochondrial and nuclear DNA sequences, respectively Cytochromec oxidase subunitI and small subunit rRNA 18S gene, to generate more rigorous and accessible identifications. DNA barcodes of Atlantic and Mediterranean populations of Lyrodus pedicellatus diverged by ~20%, suggesting cryptic species in the morphospecies L. pedicellatus. The low intraspecific divergence found in barcodes of specimens of Nototeredo norvagica (0.78%) confirms that Atlantic and Mediterranean forms of N. norvagica, the latter sometimes reported as Teredo utriculus, are the same species. Teredothyra dominicensis was found for the first time in the Mediterranean. A match was obtained between our 18S sequences and sequences of T. dominicensis from Netherlands Antilles, confirming that T. dominicensis in the Mediterranean is the same species that occurs in the Caribbean. There were differences in 18S sequences between Bankia carinata from the Mediterranean and Caribbean, which may indicate cryptic species.
Defining principles of combination drug mechanisms of action
Authors: Pritchard Justin R. , Bruno Peter M. , Gilbert Luke A. , Capron Kelsey L. , Lauffenburger Douglas A. , Hemann Michael T.
Published: December 2012

Combination chemotherapies have been a mainstay in the treatment of disseminated malignancies for almost 60 y, yet even successful regimens fail to cure many patients. Although their single-drug components are well studied, the mechanisms by which drugs work together in clinical combination regimens are poorly understood. Here, we combine RNAi-based functional signatures with complementary informatics tools to examine drug combinations. This approach seeks to bring to combination therapy what the knowledge of biochemical targets has brought to single-drug therapy and creates a statistical and experimental definition of “combination drug mechanisms of action.” We show that certain synergistic drug combinations may act as a more potent version of a single drug. Conversely, unlike these highly synergistic combinations, most drugs average extant single-drug variations in therapeutic response. When combined to form multidrug regimens, averaging combinations form averaging regimens that homogenize genetic variation in mouse models of cancer and in clinical genomics datasets. We suggest surprisingly simple and predictable combination mechanisms of action that are independent of biochemical mechanism and have implications for biomarker discovery as well as for the development of regimens with defined genetic dependencies.
Sperm Quality of Hatchery-Reared Lake Trout Throughout the Spawning Season
Authors: Johnson Katelynn , Butts Ian A E , Wilson Chris C , Pitcher Trevor E
Published: December 2012

The objective of this study was to investigate variation in sperm quality metrics (motility, velocity, linearity, longevity, and density) of hatchery-reared Lake Trout Salvelinus namaycush throughout the spawning season. Seasonal variation in sperm quality was investigated using both a regression and repeated-measures approach. Sperm was collected from the same 16 individuals over four sampling periods, separated by 3-week intervals. Regression analyses showed that 7–27% of the variation in sperm traits could be explained by seasonal variation, indicating that seasonality can have a significant impact on the quality of sperm. Significant positive linear relationships were found for percent motility and linearity at 5 s postactivation. Significant negative quadratic relationships were found for velocity at 5 s postactivation, longevity, and density, whereas a positive quadratic relationship was found for linearity at 10 s postactivation. Repeated measures ANOVAs showed a significant effect of season for percent motility and linearity at 5 and 10 s postactivation, velocity at 10 s postactivation, and longevity. Our findings are important for optimizing fertilization protocols for hatchery production and can also be used to understand reproductive biology and ecology of wild Lake Trout stocks.
Population-Based Incidence of Carbapenem-Resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae along the Continuum of Care, Los Angeles County
Authors: Marquez Patricia , Terashita Dawn , Dassey David , Mascola Laurene
Published: December 2012

Objective.

Carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) is an emerging multidrug-resistant pathogen associated with higher mortality, longer hospital stays, and increased costs. CRKP was thought to be sporadic in Los Angeles County (LAC); however, the actual incidence is unknown. To address this, LAC declared CRKP a laboratory-reportable disease on June 1, 2010.

Design.

Laboratory-based community-wide surveillance.

Patients.

Any individual who was identified as CRKP positive. CRKP was defined as a K. pneumoniae isolate resistant to all carbapenems by 2010 Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute criteria.

Methods.

Laboratory directors of 102 LAC acute care hospitals (ACHs) and 5 reference laboratories were to submit susceptibility testing results for all CRKP-positive specimens. Positive specimens from the same patient within the same calendar month of previous culture were excluded.

Results.

A total of 814 reports were received from June 1, 2010, through May 31, 2011, from 69 laboratories; 675 (83%) met the case definition. Cases were reported from ACHs (387 [57%]), long-term ACHs (LTACs; 231 [34%]), and skilled nursing facilities (57 [8%]); an outbreak in 1 LTAC was identified. The pooled mean incidence rate in LAC ACHs and LTACs was 0.46 per 1,000 patient-days; the rate in LTACs (2.54 per 1,000 patient-days) was higher than that in ACHs (0.31 per 1,000 patient-days; P < .001). Sixty-five individuals had multiple incidences, accounting for 147 case reports.

Conclusion.

CRKP is more present in LAC than suspected. Rates were consistently higher in LTACs than in ACHs. Heightened awareness of this problem is needed in all LAC healthcare facilities, as patients access services along the continuum of care.
Nonhost Resistance of Tomato to the Bean Pathogen Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae B728a Is Due to a Defective E3 Ubiquitin Ligase Domain in AvrPtoBB728a
Authors: Chien Ching-Fang , Mathieu Johannes , Hsu Chun-Hua , Boyle Patrick , Martin Gregory B. , Lin Nai-Chun
Published: December 2012

The bean pathogen Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae B728a expresses homologs of the type III effectors AvrPto and AvrPtoB, either of which can trigger resistance in tomato cultivars expressing Pto and Prf genes. We found that strain B728a also elicits nonhost resistance in tomato cultivars VFNT Cherry and Moneymaker that lack Pto but express other members of the Pto family (e.g., SlFen and SlPtoC). Here, we show that the AvrPtoB homolog from B728a, termed AvrPtoBB728a (also known as HopAB1), is recognized by ‘VFNT Cherry’ and ‘Moneymaker’ when the effector is expressed in P. syringae pv. syringae 61, a strain lacking the avrPto or avrPtoB homolog. Using a gene-silencing approach, this recognition was shown to involve one or more Pto family members and Prf. AvrPtoBB728a interacted with SlFen, SlPtoC, and SlPtoD, in addition to Pto, in a yeast two-hybrid assay. In P. syringae pv. tomato DC3000, the C-terminal domain of AvrPtoB is an E3 ubiquitin ligase that ubiquitinates Fen, causing its degradation and leading to disease susceptibility. Although the C-terminal domain of AvrPtoBB728a shares 69% amino acid identity with that of AvrPtoB, we found that it has greatly reduced E3 ligase activity and is unable to ubiquitinate Fen in an in vitro ubiquitination assay. Thus, the nonhost resistance of ‘VFNT Cherry’ and ‘Moneymaker’ to B728a appears to be due to recognition of AvrPtoBB728 as a result of the effector's reduced E3 ligase activity, which prevents it from facilitating degradation of a Pto family member. We speculate that the primary plant host of B728a lacks a Fen-like protein and that, therefore, the E3 ligase of AvrPtoBB728 was unnecessary for pathogenicity and has diverged and become ineffective.
Fusarium graminearumInfection and Deoxynivalenol Concentrations During Development of Wheat Spikes
Authors: Cowger Christina , Arellano Consuelo
Published: December 2012

Fusarium head blight (FHB) affects whole spikes of small grain plants, yet little is known about how FHB develops following infection, or about the concentration or progression of the mycotoxin deoxynivalenol (DON) in non-grain spike tissues. Fusarium mycotoxin levels in whole small-grain spikes are of concern to producers of whole-crop silage, as well as users of straw containing chaff for animal bedding or winter livestock rations. A 2-year field experiment was performed in Kinston, NC to reveal the time course of FHB development. Eight winter wheat cultivars with varying levels of FHB resistance were used in the 2006 experiment, and four of them were used in 2007. Plots were spray-inoculated with Fusarium graminearum macroconidia at mid-anthesis. Four durations of post-anthesis mist were applied: 0, 10, 20, or 30 days. Spike samples were collected and bulked by plot at 15, 25, 35, 45, 55, and 65 days after anthesis (daa); samples were separated into grain, glume, and rachis fractions. Increasing durations of post-anthesis moisture elevated grain DON and reduced the effect of cultivar on DON, presumably by affecting the expression of resistance, in all spike tissues. Fusarium-damaged kernels increased from early kernel-hard to harvest-ripe in both years. Percent infected kernels increased from medium-milk to harvest-ripe. During grainfill, DON concentrations declined in grain but increased in rachises and glumes, peaking at early kernel-hard, before declining. Higher mean and maximum DON levels were observed in rachises and glumes than in grain. Estimated whole-spike DON peaked at early kernel-hard. In a high-FHB year, whole-plant harvest for forage should be conducted as early as possible. Straw that may be consumed by livestock could contain significant amounts of DON in chaff, and DON can be minimized if straw is sourced from low-symptom crops. Cultivar FHB resistance ratings and disease data should be useful in predicting whole-spike DON levels. Overall, associations between grain DON levels in harvest-ripe and prior samples were stronger the later the prior samples were collected, suggesting limits to the possibility of predicting harvest-ripe grain DON from earlier levels.
Adult–Child Interactions in the Postanesthesia Care Unit
Authors: Chorney Jill MacLaren , Tan Edwin T. , Kain Zeev N.
Published: December 2012

Background:

Many children experience significant distress before and after surgery. Previous studies indicate that healthcare providers’ and parents’ behaviors may influence children’s outcomes. This study examines the influence of adults’ behaviors on children’s distress and coping in the postanesthesia care unit.

Methods:

Children aged 2–10 yr were videotaped during their postanesthesia care unit stay (n = 146). Adult and child behaviors were coded from video, including the onset, duration, and order of behaviors. Correlations were used to examine relations between behaviors, and time-window sequential statistical analyses were used to examine whether adult behaviors cued or followed children’s distress and coping.

Results:

Sequential analysis demonstrated that children were significantly less likely to become distressed after an adult used empathy, distraction, or coping/assurance talk than they were at any other time. Conversely, if a child was already distressed, children were significantly more likely to remain distressed if an adult used reassurance or empathy than they were at any other time. Children were more likely to display coping behavior (e.g., distraction, nonprocedural talk) after an adult used this behavior.

Conclusions:

Adults can influence children’s distress and coping in the postanesthesia care unit. Empathy, distraction, and assurance talk may be helpful in keeping a child from becoming distressed, and nonprocedural talk and distraction may cue children to cope. Reassurance should be avoided when a child is already distressed.
Accelerometry predicts daily energy expenditure in a bird with high activity levels
Authors: Elliott Kyle H. , Le Vaillant Maryline , Kato Akiko , Speakman John R. , Ropert-Coudert Yan
Published: December 2012

Animal ecology is shaped by energy costs, yet it is difficult to measure fine-scale energy expenditure in the wild. Because metabolism is often closely correlated with mechanical work, accelerometers have the potential to provide detailed information on energy expenditure of wild animals over fine temporal scales. Nonetheless, accelerometry needs to be validated on wild animals, especially across different locomotory modes. We merged data collected on 20 thick-billed murres (Uria lomvia) from miniature accelerometers with measurements of daily energy expenditure over 24 h using doubly labelled water. Across three different locomotory modes (swimming, flying and movement on land), dynamic body acceleration was a good predictor of daily energy expenditure as measured independently by doubly labelled water (R2= 0.73). The most parsimonious model suggested that different equations were needed to predict energy expenditure from accelerometry for flying than for surface swimming or activity on land (R2= 0.81). Our results demonstrate that accelerometers can provide an accurate integrated measure of energy expenditure in wild animals using many different locomotory modes.
Anticipatory motor patterns limit muscle stretch during landing in toads
Authors: Azizi Emanuel , Abbott Emily M.
Published: December 2012

To safely land after a jump or hop, muscles must be actively stretched to dissipate mechanical energy. Muscles that dissipate energy can be damaged if stretched to long lengths. The likelihood of damage may be mitigated by the nervous system, if anticipatory activation of muscles prior to impact alters the muscle's operating length. Anticipatory motor recruitment is well established in landing studies and motor patterns have been shown to be modulated based on the perceived magnitude of the impact. In this study, we examine whether motor recruitment in anticipation of landing can serve a protective function by limiting maximum muscle length during a landing event. We use the anconeus muscle of toads, a landing muscle whose recruitment is modulated in anticipation of landing. We combinein vivomeasurements of muscle length during landing within vitrocharacterization of the force–length curve to determine the muscle's operating length. We show that muscle shortening prior to impact increases with increasing hop distance. This initial increase in muscle shortening functions to accommodate the larger stretches required when landing after long hops. These predictive motor strategies may function to reduce stretch-induced muscle damage by constraining maximum muscle length, despite variation in the magnitude of impact.
Clusters of poverty and disease emerge from feedbacks on an epidemiological network
Authors: Pluciński Mateusz M. , Ngonghala Calistus N. , Getz Wayne M. , Bonds Matthew H.
Published: December 2012

The distribution of health conditions is characterized by extreme inequality. These disparities have been alternately attributed to disease ecology and the economics of poverty. Here, we provide a novel framework that integrates epidemiological and economic growth theory on an individual-based hierarchically structured network. Our model indicates that, under certain parameter regimes, feedbacks between disease ecology and economics create clusters of low income and high disease that can stably persist in populations that become otherwise predominantly rich and free of disease. Surprisingly, unlike traditional poverty trap models, these localized disease-driven poverty traps can arise despite homogeneity of parameters and evenly distributed initial economic conditions.
Horace Lamb and the circumstances of his appointment at Owens College
Authors: Launder Brian
Published: December 2012

This paper examines a succession of incidents at a critical juncture in the life of Professor Horace Lamb FRS, a highly regarded classical fluid mechanicist, who, over a period of some 35 years at Manchester, made notable contributions in research, in education and in wise administration at both national and university levels. Drawing on archived documents from the universities of Manchester and Adelaide, the article presents the unusual sequence of events that led to his removing from Adelaide, South Australia, where he had served for nine years as the Elder Professor of Mathematics, to Manchester. In 1885 he was initially appointed to the vacant Chair of Pure Mathematics at Owens College and then, in 1888, as an outcome of his proposal for rearranging professorial responsibilities, to the Beyer Professorship of Pure and Applied Mathematics.
Mitochondrial Targeting of theArabidopsisF1-ATPase γ-Subunit via Multiple Compensatory and Synergistic Presequence Motifs
Authors: Lee Sumin , Lee Dong Wook , Yoo Yun-Joo , Duncan Owen , Oh Young Jun , Lee Yong Jik , Lee Goeun , Whelan James , Hwang Inhwan
Published: December 2012

The majority of mitochondrial proteins are encoded in the nuclear genome and imported into mitochondria posttranslationally from the cytosol. An N-terminal presequence functions as the signal for the import of mitochondrial proteins. However, the functional information in the presequence remains elusive. This study reports the identification of critical sequence motifs from the presequence of Arabidopsis  thaliana F1-ATPase γ-subunit (pFAγ). pFAγ was divided into six 10–amino acid segments, designated P1 to P6 from the N to the C terminus, each of which was further divided into two 5–amino acid subdivisions. These P segments and their subdivisions were substituted with Ala residues and fused to green fluorescent protein (GFP). Protoplast targeting experiments using these GFP constructs revealed that pFAγ contains several functional sequence motifs that are dispersed throughout the presequence. The sequence motifs DQEEG (P4a) and VVRNR (P5b) were involved in translocation across the mitochondrial membranes. The sequence motifs IAARP (P2b) and IAAIR (P3a) participated in binding to mitochondria. The sequence motifs RLLPS (P2a) and SISTQ (P5a) assisted in pulling proteins into the matrix, and the sequence motif IAARP (P2b) functioned in Tom20-dependent import. In addition, these sequence motifs exhibit complex relationships, including synergistic functions. Thus, multiple sequence motifs dispersed throughout the presequence are proposed to function cooperatively during protein import into mitochondria.
Germline-Specific MATH-BTB Substrate Adaptor MAB1 Regulates Spindle Length and Nuclei Identity in Maize
Authors: Juranić Martina , Srilunchang Kanok-orn , Krohn Nádia Graciele , Leljak-Levanić Dunja , Sprunck Stefanie , Dresselhaus Thomas
Published: December 2012

Germline and early embryo development constitute ideal model systems to study the establishment of polarity, cell identity, and asymmetric cell divisions (ACDs) in plants. We describe here the function of the MATH-BTB domain protein MAB1 that is exclusively expressed in the germ lineages and the zygote of maize (Zea mays). mab1 (RNA interference [RNAi]) mutant plants display chromosome segregation defects and short spindles during meiosis that cause insufficient separation and migration of nuclei. After the meiosis-to-mitosis transition, two attached nuclei of similar identity are formed in mab1 (RNAi) mutants leading to an arrest of further germline development. Transient expression studies of MAB1 in tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) Bright Yellow-2 cells revealed a cell cycle–dependent nuclear localization pattern but no direct colocalization with the spindle apparatus. MAB1 is able to form homodimers and interacts with the E3 ubiquitin ligase component Cullin 3a (CUL3a) in the cytoplasm, likely as a substrate-specific adapter protein. The microtubule-severing subunit p60 of katanin was identified as a candidate substrate for MAB1, suggesting that MAB1 resembles the animal key ACD regulator Maternal Effect Lethal 26 (MEL-26). In summary, our findings provide further evidence for the importance of posttranslational regulation for asymmetric divisions and germline progression in plants and identified an unstable key protein that seems to be involved in regulating the stability of a spindle apparatus regulator(s).
Matching simple modules of condensation algebras
Authors: Noeske Felix
Published: December 2012

We revise the matching algorithm of Noeske (LMS J. Comput. Math. 11 (2008) 213–222) and introduce a new approach via composition series to expedite the calculations. Furthermore, we show how the matching algorithm may be applied in the more general and frequently occurring setting that we are only given subalgebras of the condensed algebras which each contain the separable algebra of one of their Wedderburn–Malcev decompositions.
Uncovering the Unseen
Authors: Methe Heiko
Published: December 2012

Single-cell analysis in three-dimensional tissue samples is enabled by light sheet fluorescence microscopy.
“Heads,” Flesh-Eating Disease; “Tails,” Just a Sore Throat
Authors: Yipp Bryan G.
Published: December 2012

Antibody binding orientation changes between severe streptococcal infection and benign colonization.
Bacterial Cell Surface Deformation under External Loading
Authors: Chen Yun , Norde Willem , van der Mei Henny C. , Busscher Henk J.
Published: December 2012

Viscoelastic deformation of the contact volume between adhering bacteria and substratum surfaces plays a role in their adhesion and detachment. Currently, there are no deformation models that account for the heterogeneous structure and composition of bacteria, consisting of a relatively soft outer layer and a more rigid, hard core enveloped by a cross-linked peptidoglycan layer. The aim of this paper is to present a new, simple model to derive the reduced Young’s modulus of the contact volume between adhering bacteria and substratum surfaces based on the relationship between deformation and applied external loading force, measured using atomic force microscopy. The model assumes that contact is established through a cylinder with constant volume and does not require assumptions on the properties and dimensions of the contact cylinder. The reduced Young’s moduli obtained (8 to 47 kPa) and dimensions of the contact cylinders could be interpreted on the basis of the cell surface features and cell wall characteristics, i.e., surfaces that are more rigid (because of either less fibrillation, less extracellular polymeric substance production, or a higher degree of cross-linking of the peptidoglycan layer) had shorter contact cylinders and higher reduced Young’s moduli. Application of an existing Hertz model to our experimental data yielded reduced Young’s moduli that were up to 100 times higher for all strains investigated, likely because the Hertz model pertains to a major extent to the more rigid peptidoglycan layer and not only to the soft outer bacterial cell surface, involved in the bond between a bacterium and a substratum surface.

IMPORTANCEThe viscoelastic properties of the bond between an adhering bacterium and a substratum surface play a role in determining bacterial detachment. For instance, removal of an oral biofilm proceeds according to a viscoelastic failure model, and biofilm left behind after toothbrushing has been found to possess expanded bond lengths between adhering bacteria due to viscoelastic deformation. Current elastic deformation models are unable to distinguish between the soft outer bacterial cell surface and the hard core of a bacterium, enveloped by a peptidoglycan layer. Therefore, here we present a simple model to calculate the Young’s modulus and deformation of the contact volume between an adhering bacterium and a substratum surface that accounts for the heterogeneous structure of a bacterium.
Who needs a shot … a review of tetanus immunity in the West of Ireland
Authors: Moughty Adrian , Donnell John O , Nugent Mary
Published: December 2012

Introduction

Tetanus is a rare disease but, in the era of widespread vaccination, largely a preventable one. Immunization programmes in childhood are felt to offer lifelong immunity but it is known that with increased age immunity wanes. We sought to assess immunity in a sample of patients presenting for conditions unrelated to injury to the emergency department covering an area in the West of Ireland.

Methods

A convenience sample of 216 patients, who presented to the emergency department for complaints unrelated to injury, requiring blood tests for their management was obtained. Using the Protetanus QuickStick® all samples were analysed.

Results

No statistical difference between men and women in terms of tetanus immunity (p=0.94) but significant reduction in immunity with increasing age (p<0.001). Those non-immune tended to be older with mean age of 66 years compared to mean age of 46 year for immune. Using logarithmic regression analysis an increase in age of 10 years was associated with 50% reduction in immunity.

Discussion

National guidelines should incorporate this data and explicitly advocate the use of booster doses of tetanus toxoid outside of the normal vaccination programme especially in the elderly.
‘A model for the country’: letters from Florence Nightingale to the architect, Thomas Worthington, on hospitals and other matters 1865–1868
Authors: Butler Stella Vera F
Published: December 2012

Between 1865 and 1868 the Manchester architect, Thomas Worthington and Florence Nightingale corresponded about hospital design. Worthington was involved in building hospitals for two Poor Law Unions in Manchester. The designs of both hospitals were based on the ‘pavilion’ principle of which Nightingale became a vocal national champion. Through five letters written by Nightingale to Worthington, the paper explores Nightingale's views focussing on her admiration for the designs, and examines the importance of these commissions for Worthington's career as a hospital architect.
Solid-phase synthesis of N-(buta-2,3-dien-1-yl)amides by the Crabbé reaction
Authors: Leikoski Tuomo , Wrigstedt Pauli , Matikainen Jorma , Sipilä Jussi , Yli-Kauhaluoma Jari
Published: December 2012

The Crabbé homologation of polymer-supported propargylamine with paraformaldehyde, CuI, and dicyclohexylamine in 1,4-dioxane at 100 °C, followed by cleavage with dilute trifluoroacetic acid, furnishes N-(buta-2,3-dien-1-yl)amides as isolable products. The N-acyltriazene linker on Merrifield resin serves simultaneously as a protecting group for the nucleophilic primary amine. The product diversity is achieved by altering the acyl chloride in the acylation of the triazene linker. In addition to being a new route to nitrogen-containing allenes, our solid-phase method enables immobilization of these reactive cumulated dienes for further synthetic operations.
Biofilms from a Brazilian water distribution system include filamentous fungi
Authors: Siqueira V.M. , Oliveira H.M.B. , Santos C. , Paterson R.R.M. , Gusmão N.B. , Lima N.
Published: December 2012

Filamentous fungi in drinking water can block water pipes, can cause organoleptic biodeterioration, and are a source of pathogens. There are increasing reports of the involvement of the organisms in biofilms. This present study describes a sampling device that can be inserted directly into pipes within water distribution systems, allowing biofilm formation in situ. Calcofluor White M2R staining and fluorescent in situ hybridization with morphological analyses using epifluorescent microscopy were used to analyse biofilms for filamentous fungi, permitting direct observation of the fungi. DAPI (4′,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole) was applied to detect bacteria. Filamentous fungi were detected in biofilms after 6 months on coupons exposed to raw water, decanted water and at the entrance of the water distribution system. Algae, yeast, and bacteria were also observed. The role of filamentous fungi requires further investigations.
Involvement of mixed lineage kinase 3 in cancer
Authors: Chadee Deborah N.
Published: December 2012

Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways are composed of a phosphorelay signaling module where an activated MAP kinase kinase kinase (MAP3K) phosphorylates and activates a MAPK kinase (MAP2K) that in turn phosphorylates and activates a MAPK. The biological outcome of MAPK signaling is the regulation of cellular responses such as proliferation, differentiation, migration, and apoptosis. The MAP3K mixed lineage kinase 3 (MLK3) phosphorylates MAP2Ks to activate multiple MAPK signaling pathways, and MLK3 also has functions in cell signaling that are independent of its kinase activity. The recent elucidation of essential functions for MLK3 in tumour cell proliferation, migration, and invasion has drawn attention to the MLKs as potential therapeutic targets for cancer treatments. The mounting evidence that suggests a role for MLK3 in tumourigenesis and establishment of the malignant phenotype is the focus of this review.
CATALYST-FREE GAN NANOWIRES AS NANOSCALE LIGHT EMITTERS
Authors: BERTNESS KRIS , SANFORD NORMAN , SCHLAGER JOHN , ROSHKO ALEXANA , HARVEY TODD , BLANCHARD PAUL , BRUBAKER MATTHEW , HERRERO ANDREW , SANDERS ARIC
Published: December 2012

Catalyst-free growth of GaN nanowires with molecular beam epitaxy produces material of exceptionally high quality with long minority-carrier lifetimes and low surface recombination velocity. The nanowires grow by thermodynamic driving forces that enhance the sticking coefficient of incoming reagents to the end facets of the nanowire while inhibiting growth on the m-plane sidewalls. Photoluminescence (PL) studies confirm that the material is essentially free of detrimental chemical impurities and crystalline defects. The nanowires are readily excited to lasing with modest optical pump power. Recent progress in methods for selective epitaxy has made it possible to control both the diameter and placement of the nanowires. Despite the high material quality, the energy-conversion efficiency of single nanowire LEDs remains low. The primary limitation appears to be optimizing the p-type doping with Mg , which is both a growth and a measurement problem.