bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Autistic-like traits and their association with mental health problems in two nationwide twin cohorts of children and adults
Authors: Lundström S. , Chang Z. , Kerekes N. , Gumpert C. H. , Råstam M. , Gillberg C. , Lichtenstein P. , Anckarsäter H.
Published: March 2011

Background

Autistic-like traits (ALTs), that is restrictions in intuitive social interaction, communication and flexibility of interests and behaviors, were studied in two population-based Swedish twin studies, one in children and one in adults: (1) to examine whether the variability in ALTs is a meaningful risk factor for concomitant attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety, conduct problems, depression and substance abuse, and (2) to assess whether common genetic and environmental susceptibilities can help to explain co-existence of ALTs and traits associated with such concomitant problems.

Method

Two nationwide twin cohorts from Sweden (consisting of 11 222 children and 18 349 adults) were assessed by DSM-based symptom algorithms for autism. The twins were divided into six groups based on their degree of ALTs and the risk for concomitant mental health problems was calculated for each group. Genetic and environmental susceptibilities common to ALTs and the other problem types were examined using bivariate twin modeling.

Results

In both cohorts, even the lowest degree of ALTs increased the risk for all other types of mental health problems, and these risk estimates increased monotonically with the number of ALTs. For all conditions, common genetic and environmental factors could be discerned. Overall, the phenotypic correlation between ALTs and the traits examined were less pronounced in adulthood than in childhood and less affected by genetic compared with environmental factors.

Conclusions

Even low-grade ALTs are relevant to clinical psychiatry as they increase the risk for several heterotypical mental health problems. The association is influenced partly by common genetic and environmental susceptibilities. Attention to co-existing ALTs is warranted in research on a wide range of mental disorders.
Trascendental reto para los tribunales penales internacionales: conciliar las exigencias del derecho international humanitario y de un procedimiento equitativo
Authors: La Rosa Anne-Marie
Published: March 2011

Los Tribunales Penales Internacionales, instituidos por el Consejo de Seguridad en 1993 y 1994, están a punto de demostrar que la represión internacional de las violaciones graves del derecho internacional humanitario ha dejado de ser un concepto meramente teórico. Veintiún acusados y sospechosos han sido transferidos a la sede del Tribunal de Arusha, y el Tribunal de La Haya ha dictado dos fallos condenatorios. Estos Tribunales no sólo tienen competencia para perseguir y enjuiciar a los presuntos responsables de violaciones graves del derecho internacional humanitario, sino que, de conformidad con los respectivos Estatutos, deben hacerlo velando por que las normas internacionalmente reconocidas relativas a los derechos del acusado sean plenamente respetadas en todas las fases de las diligencias incoadas.En el artículo 20 de los Estatutos del Tribunal para Ruanda y en el artículo 21 de los Estatutos del Tribunal para ex Yugoslavia, que reproducen el contenido de las disposiciones del artículo 14 del Pacto Internacional de Derechos Civiles y Políticos, seenumeran pormenorizadamente los derechos de que puede beneficiarse la persona acusada.
El Tribunal Penal Internacional para Ruanda: sancionar a los asesinos
Authors: Peter Chris Maina
Published: March 2011

«A decir verdad, lo importante no es cuántos casos de atrocidades puedan tratar los Tribunales Intemacionales sino el profundo mensaje que transmite su existencia misma, propiciando así el desarrollo del derecho mediante sus estatutos, sus normas de procedimiento y de prueba, así como mediante la práctical»

En la primavera de 1994, fueron muertas en Ruanda más de 500.000 personas en uno de los más cruentos genocidios de la historia. La matanza comenzó apenas unas horas después de que fuese derribado, en un atentado, el avión en que viajaban, tras negociaciones de paz en Tanzania, los presidentes de Ruanda y de Burundi, antes de aterrizar en el aeropuerto de Kigali.
Las jurisdicciones penales nacionales de Ruanda y el Tribunal Internacional
Authors: Dubois Olivier
Published: March 2011

La rivalidad por lo que se refiere a la competencia, a la complementariedad y la cooperatión entre un tribunal internacional y las jurisdicciones nacionales es una cuestión inevitable que puede plantearse a todos los Estados del planeta, puesto que todos pueden verse, en algún momento, confrontados con muchos de los crímenes con respecto a los cuales son competentes, en virtud del principio de competencia universal, los tribunales internacionales, dondequiera que se hayan cometido y cualquiera que sea la nacionalidad del autor.
Los Protocolos adicionales a los Convenios de Ginebra en pos de universalidad
Authors: Sommaruga Cornelio
Published: March 2011

Hace diez años, el 8 dejunio de 1977, la Conferencia Diplomática sobre la reafirmación y el desarrollo del derecho internacional humanitario aplicable en los conflictos armados aprobó dos Protocolos adicionales a los Convenios de Ginebra de 1949 relativos uno a la protección de las víctimas de los conflictos armados internacionales y el otro a la proteccion de las victimas de los conflictos armados no internacionales.
Los Protocolos de Ginebra de 1977 y el desarrollo del derecho internacional humanitario
Authors: Wei Su
Published: March 2011

Hace diez años se aprobaron, en Ginebra, dos Protocolos adicionales a los cuatro Convenios de Ginebra: uno relativo a la protección de las víctimas de los conflictos armados internacionales, el otro a la protección de las víctimas de los conflictos armados no internacionales. Esto supone un avance en el desarrollo del derecho intemacional humanitario aplicable en los conflictos armados. El mayor problema con que se enfrentaban los abogados de derecho intemacional humanitario en los años de la postguerra era la protección de las personas civiles en caso de conflicto armado, particularmente en un período caracterizado por las guerras de liberación nacional.
Noruega y los Protocolos adicionales de 1977 a los Convenios de Ginebra de 1949
Authors: Egge Bjørn
Published: March 2011

Noruega partitipó activamente en los debates que concluyeron con la aprobación de los Protocolos adicionales de 1977. Muchos representantes noruegos asistieron a la Conferencia Diplomática sobre la Reafirmación y el Desarrollo del Derecho Internacional Aplicable en los Conflictos Armados (Ginebra, 1974–1977), así como a las reuniones de expertos que la precedieron.

Tres Ministerios —el de Defensa, el de Justicia y el de Relaciones Exteriores— examinaron a fondo los resultados de la Conferencia Diplomática antes de presentarlos a la Asamblea Nacional (Storting).
La composición del Comité Internacional de la Cruz Roja
Authors: Bugnion François
Published: March 2011

« No conozco parte alguna de la jurisprudencia o de la ciencia humana a la que se pueda equiparar la institución denominada Comité de Ginebra» declaró, ante la IV Conferencia Internacional de Sociedades de la Cruz Roja, celebrada en Karlsruhe el mes de septiembre de 1887, el eminente jurista ruso Fiodor Fiodorovitch de Martens.
Prólogo de Daniel Thürer
Authors: Thürer Daniel
Published: March 2011

Hace cincuenta años…, el 10 de diciembre de 1948, la Asamblea General de las Naciones Unidas aprobó la Declaración Universal de Derechos Humanos, un hito en el desarrollo del derecho internacional. Se reconocía entonces que el punto central de referencia del sistema jurídico intemacional es el ser humano, cuyos derechos habían sido determinados durante la larga evolución de la historia constitucional.
Principios Rectores relativos al desplazamiento de personas en el interior de su propio país: Algunas observaciones sobre la contribución del derecho internacional humanitario
Authors: Lavoyer Jean-Philippe
Published: March 2011

El debate internacional sobre el tema de las personas desplazadas en el interior de su propio país, muy intenso en los últimos años, ha experimentado recientemente un desarrollo importante: la elaboración de los «Principios Rectores sobre el desplazamiento de personas en el interior de su propio país» (en adelante, Principios Rectores). Tienen la particularidad de reunir en un mismo documento elementos de tres ramas del derecho internacional público: derecho internacional humanitario, derecho de los derechos humanos y derecho de los refugiados. Esta combinación merece especial atención.
La Comisión Interamericana de Derechos Humanos y el derecho internacional humanitario: comentario acerca del casoLa Tablada
Authors: Zegveld Liesbeth
Published: March 2011

El 30 de octubre de 1997, la Comisión Interamericana de Derechos Humanos (en adelante, la Comisión) aprobó su informe del llamado casoLa Tablada. El caso se refiere a un ataque que 42 personas armadas realizaron contra un cuartel militar. Hubo un combate de aproximadamente 30 horas; resultaron muertos 29 de los atacantes y varios agentes del Estado. Los atacantes que sobrevivieron presentaron una denuncia a la Comisión, en la que alegan que los agentes del Estado violaron la Convención Americana sobre Derechos Humanos (en adelante, Convención Americana) y varias normas de derecho internacional humanitario. En su informe, la Comisión examinó detalladamente su competencia para aplicar directamente el derecho internacional humanitario y respondió afirmativamente a esta cuestión
Experimental investigations of X-pinch backlighters on QiangGuang-1 generator
Authors: Wu J. , Wang L. , Qiu A. , Han J. , Li M. , Lei T. , Cong P. , Qiu M. , Yang H. , Lv M.
Published: March 2011

Experiments of the return current post installed X-pinches were carried out on the 1-MA “QiangGuang-1” facility with the purpose of understanding X-pinch characteristics under this setup and establishing X-pinch backlighting diagnostics for the wire-array Z-pinches. Different wire-array loads along with the two-wire 30 µm Mo X-pinch backlighter were tested. The X-pinches emit the X-ray radiation with the burst time variation of ± 4 ns and the bright spot size of  ~30 µm. X-ray backlighting shadowgraphy images of the over-mass and radiation-suppressed Z-pinch wire array were obtained.
The splitted beam profile of laser beam in the interaction of intense lasers with overdense plasmas
Authors: Xia Xiongping , Cai Zebin , Yi Lin
Published: March 2011

In this paper, the interaction of intense lasers with overdense plasmas is investigated. Based on the modified nonlinear wave equation describing the interaction of intense laser and overdense plasmas in nonparaxial region, due to the influence of off-axis components a2 and a4 in nonparaxial region, we first find the three-splitted laser beam intensity profile, besides, discuss detailed the forming mathematic and some possible physical conditions of the single highly self-focusing beam profile, two-splitted beam, and three-splitted beam profile. In addition, we also investigate the influence of the parameters βE02 and ρ2 on splitted beam profiles.
The comeback of shock waves in inertial fusion energy
Authors: Eliezer Shalom , Martinez Val Jose Maria
Published: March 2011

The shock waves in laser plasma interaction have played an important role in the study of inertial fusion energy (IFE) since the 1970's and perhaps earlier. The interaction of laser, or any other high power beam, induced shock waves with matter was one of the foundations of the target design in IFE. Even the importance of shock wave collision was studied and its importance forgotten. In due course, the shock waves were taken as granted and became “second fiddle” in IFE scenario. The analysis of the shock wave in the context of IFE is revived in this paper. At the forefront of the past decade the concept of fast ignition was introduced. The different ideas of fast ignition are summarized with special emphasis on shock wave fast ignition. The ignition is achieved by launching a shock wave during the final stages of the implosion. In this paper, a possible instability in the propagation of the igniting shock wave is analyzed. The idea of combining the fast ignition fusion with an impact shock wave is suggested and analyzed. This is achieved by launching a shock wave by an accelerated foil during the final stage of the implosion in order to ignite the compressed fuel. In this scheme, like other fast ignition schemes, a significant reduction of the driver energy in comparison with standard IFE scenarios is required for the same high gain fusion.
Relativistic self-focusing and self-phase modulation of cosh-Gaussian laser beam in magnetoplasma
Authors: Gill Tarsem Singh , Kaur Ravinder , Mahajan Ranju
Published: March 2011

In this paper, we have investigated the propagation characteristics of cosh-Gaussian laser beam in magnetoplasma using relativistic nonlinearity. The field distribution in the medium is expressed in terms of beam width parameter an and decentred parameter b. An appropriate nonlinear Schräodinger equation has been solved analytically using variational approach. The behaviour of beam width parameter with dimensionless distance of propagation ξ for various b values is examined. Self-phase modulation and self-trapping is also studied under variety of parameters. Further, the effect of magnetic field on self-focusing of the beam have been explored.
A multiphase buoyancy-drag model for the study of Rayleigh-Taylor and Richtmyer-Meshkov instabilities in dusty gases
Authors: Balakrishnan Kaushik , Menon Suresh
Published: March 2011

A new multiphase buoyancy-drag model is developed for the study of Rayleigh-Taylor and Richtmyer-Meshkov instabilities in dusty gases, extending on a counterpart single-phase model developed in the past by Srebro et al. (2003). This model is applied to single- and multi-mode perturbations in dusty gases and both Rayleigh-Taylor and Richtmyer-Meshkov instabilities are investigated. The amplitude for Rayleigh-Taylor growth is observed to be contained within a band, which lies within limits identified by a multiphase Atwood number that is a function of the fluid densities, particle size, and a Stokes number. The amplitude growth is subdued with (1) an increase in particle size for a fixed particle number density and with (2) an increase in particle number density for a fixed particle size. The power law index for Richtmyer-Meshkov growth under multi-mode conditions also shows dependence to the multiphase Atwood number, with the index for the bubble front linearly decreasing and then remaining constant, and increasing non-linearly for the spike front. Four new classes of problems are identified and are investigated for Rayleigh-Taylor growth under multi-mode conditions for a hybrid version of the model: (1) bubbles in a pure gas rising into a region of particles; (2) spikes in a pure gas falling into a region of particles; (3) bubbles in a region of particles rising into a pure gas; and (4) spikes in a region of particles falling into a pure gas. Whereas the bubbles accelerate for class (1) and the spikes for class (4), for classes (2) and (3), the spikes and bubbles, respectively, oscillate in a gravity wave-like phenomenon due to the buoyancy term changing sign alternatively. The spike or bubble front, as the case may be, penetrates different amounts into the dusty or pure gas for every subsequent penetration, due to drag effects. Finally, some extensions to the presently developed multiphase buoyancy-drag model are proposed for future research.
A force analysis of a 3-RPS parallel mechanism by using screw theory
Authors: Zhao Y. , Liu J. F. , Huang Z.
Published: March 2011

The force analysis of parallel manipulators is one of the important issues for mechanical design and control, but it is quite difficult often because of the excessive unknowns. A new approach using screw theory for a 3-RPS parallel mechanism is proposed in this paper. It is able to markedly reduce the number of unknowns and even make the number of simultaneous equations to solve not more than six each time, which may be called force decoupling. With this method, first the main-pair reactions need to be solved for, and then, the active forces and constraint reactions of all other kinematic pairs can be simultaneously obtained by analyzing the equilibrium of each body one by one. Finally, a numerical example and a discussion are given.
Aldhelm and Old St Peter's, Rome
Authors: Story Joanna
Published: March 2011

Aldhelm of Malmesbury was one of the most prolific and influential scholars of early Anglo-Saxon England. His contemporary fame rested partly on the fact that he had been a pilgrim to Rome. This article presents new evidence for Aldhelm's literary debt to the epigraphy of early Christian Rome. Two ninth-century manuscripts from Reims contain an anthology of six epigrams which derive largely from verse inscriptions in Old St Peter's. Aldhelm quoted two of these, de Petro and de Andrea, almost verbatim in his Carmina Ecclesiastica. It is likely that Aldhelm knew these verses from first-hand observation rather than via the pages of a manuscript sylloge.
Why is the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle About Kings?
Authors: Brooks Nicholas
Published: March 2011

Research into the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle in the last generation has concentrated upon editing the different versions found in the extant manuscripts and on interpreting their differences. That has caused some neglect of the features that all manuscripts share, namely their remarkable preoccupation with the deeds of English kings and with the assertion of English identity – features characteristic both of the Chronicle's ‘common stock’ down to c. 892 and of subsequent continuations. That shared agenda may most readily be explained by supposing that from the 890s until 1131 sections of the annals continued to be disseminated intermittently from the royal household. The sustained royal focus would reflect the career interests of those in the king's service; and the local continuation of Chronicle manuscripts would reflect such men's role in abbatial or episcopal office. The traditional assumption that the Chronicle was being composed in the churches to which copies had been distributed by King Alfred requires an interpretation of the manuscript transmission of improbable complexity.
The star-like soul in the metra of the Old English Boethius
Authors: Lenz Karmen
Published: March 2011

The central theme in both versions of the Old English Boethius is the Christian conversion of the soul. In the prosimetrical version, this theme is highlighted further in the metra through the poetic trope of the human soul figured as a star to reinforce the teaching in the prose passages. In the course of the metra, the trope increasingly focuses on the inner life of the man engaged in earthly affairs as he strengthens his moral resolve and his divine affiliation through meditation. Repetition and variations of the trope in Metres 5, 10, 20, 22 and 23 represent the soul's shift from despair to understanding.
The Old English Life of St Neot and the legends of King Alfred
Authors: Godden Malcolm
Published: March 2011

The Old English Life of St Neot has been generally dated to the twelfth century and dismissed as a late and derivative work. The article argues that it was written much earlier, in the first few decades of the eleventh century, and is both a significant example of late Old English hagiographic literature and an important witness to early legends about King Alfred and his posthumous reputation.
Dual language exposure and early bilingual development
Authors: HOFF ERIKA , CORE CYNTHIA , PLACE SILVIA , RUMICHE ROSARIO , SEÑOR MELISSA , PARRA MARISOL
Published: March 2011

The extant literature includes conflicting assertions regarding the influence of bilingualism on the rate of language development. The present study compared the language development of equivalently high-SES samples of bilingually and monolingually developing children from 1 ; 10 to 2 ; 6. The monolingually developing children were significantly more advanced than the bilingually developing children on measures of both vocabulary and grammar in single language comparisons, but they were comparable on a measure of total vocabulary. Within the bilingually developing sample, all measures of vocabulary and grammar were related to the relative amount of input in that language. Implications for theories of language acquisition and for understanding bilingual development are discussed.
Evolution of HCV incidence in drug users in France
Authors: LUCIDARME D. , DUBURQUE C. , BULOIS P. , FILOCHE B.
Published: March 2011

Over the last 40 years, the dynamics of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in drug users has been affected by the illicit drug market, the health environment including the devastating impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic which erupted in the 1980s, and the diffusion of substitution treatment beginning in 1995. The purpose of this literature review is to present the dynamics of HCV infection in drug users in France over the last 40 years. Two prevalence studies of HCV infection in the general population were conducted by the French Institute for Public Health Surveillance in 1994 and 2004 and were the touchstone data sources for this analysis. Hypotheses constructed from the findings of these two studies were examined in light of results reported by multicentre prevalence and incidence studies in drug-user populations. The incidence of HCV infection in drug users in France reached a peak in the late 1980s or early 1990s after a lengthy period of epidemic expansion. Implementation of a risk reduction policy enabled a very significant reduction in the incidence of HCV infection in drug users over the last 20 years, leading to incidence figures which are now 10–15% of the 1990 estimate.
Executive Function in Young Males with Klinefelter (XXY) Syndrome with and without Comorbid Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Lee Nancy Raitano , Wallace Gregory L. , Clasen Liv S. , Lenroot Rhoshel K. , Blumenthal Jonathan D. , White Samantha L. , Celano Mark J. , Giedd Jay N.
Published: March 2011

Deficits in executive function (EF) are reported to occur in individuals with Klinefelter syndrome (XXY). The degree of impairment, if any, is variable and the nature of these deficits has not been clearly elucidated in young males. In this report, we (a) examine EF skills using multiple tasks in a non-clinic referred group of youth with XXY, (b) describe the extent of EF weaknesses in XXY when this group is compared with typical males of a similar SES or typical males with similar verbal abilities, and (c) evaluate the contribution of comorbid attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) to EF skills. The sample included 27 males with XXY (ages 9–25), 27 typically developing age- and vocabulary-matched males, and 22 age- and socioeconomic status-matched males. EF tasks included Verbal Fluency, the Trail Making Test, and the CANTAB Spatial Working Memory and Stockings of Cambridge tasks. Mixed model analysis of variance was used to compare the groups on EF tasks and revealed a main effect of group but no group by task interaction. Overall, the XXY group performed less well than both control groups, but performance did not differ significantly as a function of task. ADHD comorbidity in males with XXY was related to poorer EF skills. (JINS, 2011,17, 522–530)
What Longevity Predictors Should Be Allowed for When Valuing Pension Scheme Liabilities?
Authors: Madrigal A. M. , Matthews F. E. , Patel D. D. , Gaches A. T. , Baxter S. D.
Published: March 2011

Data held within administration records of occupational pension schemes yield a rich source of information on mortality rates and the statistical predictors (covariates) of longevity. In this paper we provide, for the first time, a multivariable analysis of post-retirement mortality using the detailed information held within occupational pension scheme records.

Using the extensive dataset of over one million living pensioners and dependants and 530,000 historic deaths collected by Club Vita, we investigate the importance of factors including gender, affluence and lifestyle on the observed period life expectancy of individuals. We describe one approach to constructing a multivariable model for pensioner baseline mortality, showing how such factors explain a variation in observed period life expectancy in excess of ten years. The relative importance of each factor on mortality is analysed and we describe the interactions between these factors and age, answering questions such as whether the impact of a healthy lifestyle or affluence attenuates with age. Further, we highlight the importance of the choice of affluence measure in analysing mortality, and show that the salary at retirement is a better predictor of longevity than the pension amount for male pensioners.

The results of this paper are directly relevant to any pensions actuary advising on an appropriate baseline assumption (i.e. current mortality rates) for use with occupational pension schemes.
A Review of Strain Analysis Using Electron Backscatter Diffraction
Authors: Wright Stuart I. , Nowell Matthew M. , Field David P.
Published: March 2011

Since the automation of the electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) technique, EBSD systems have become commonplace in microscopy facilities within materials science and geology research laboratories around the world. The acceptance of the technique is primarily due to the capability of EBSD to aid the research scientist in understanding the crystallographic aspects of microstructure. There has been considerable interest in using EBSD to quantify strain at the submicron scale. To apply EBSD to the characterization of strain, it is important to understand what is practically possible and the underlying assumptions and limitations. This work reviews the current state of technology in terms of strain analysis using EBSD. First, the effects of both elastic and plastic strain on individual EBSD patterns will be considered. Second, the use of EBSD maps for characterizing plastic strain will be explored. Both the potential of the technique and its limitations will be discussed along with the sensitivity of various calculation and mapping parameters.
LOOP GROUPS, STRING CLASSES AND EQUIVARIANT COHOMOLOGY
Authors: VOZZO RAYMOND F.
Published: March 2011

We give a classifying theory for LG-bundles, where LG is the loop group of a compact Lie group G, and present a calculation for the string class of the universal LG-bundle. We show that this class is in fact an equivariant cohomology class and give an equivariant differential form representing it. We then use the caloron correspondence to define (higher) characteristic classes for LG-bundles and to prove a result for characteristic classes for based loop groups for the free loop group. These classes have a natural interpretation in equivariant cohomology and we give equivariant differential form representatives for the universal case in all odd dimensions.
Electrophysiological markers of genetic risk for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Tye Charlotte , McLoughlin Gráinne , Kuntsi Jonna , Asherson Philip
Published: March 2011

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a highly heritable neurodevelopmental disorder with complex genetic aetiology. The identification of candidate intermediate phenotypes may facilitate the detection of susceptibility genes and neurobiological mechanisms underlying the disorder. Electroencephalography (EEG) is an ideal neuroscientific approach, providing a direct measurement of neural activity that demonstrates reliability, developmental stability and high heritability. This systematic review evaluates the utility of a subset of electrophysiological measures as potential intermediate phenotypes for ADHD: quantitative EEG indices of arousal and intraindividual variability, and functional investigations of attention, inhibition and performance monitoring using the event-related potential (ERP) technique. Each measure demonstrates consistent and meaningful associations with ADHD, a degree of genetic overlap with ADHD and potential links to specific genetic variants. Investigations of the genetic and environmental contributions to EEG/ERP and shared genetic overlap with ADHD might enhance molecular genetic studies and provide novel insights into aetiology. Such research will aid in the precise characterisation of the clinical deficits seen in ADHD and guide the development of novel intervention and prevention strategies for those at risk.
PCR-based analysis of microbial communities during the EuroGeoMars campaign at Mars Desert Research Station, Utah
Authors: Thiel Cora S. , Ehrenfreund Pascale , Foing Bernard , Pletser Vladimir , Ullrich Oliver
Published: March 2011

The search for evidence of past or present life on Mars will require the detection of markers that indicate the presence of life. Because deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is found in all known living organisms, it is considered to be a ‘biosignature’ of life. The main function of DNA is the long-term storage of genetic information, which is passed on from generation to generation as hereditary material. The Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is a revolutionary technique which allows a single fragment or a small number of fragments of a DNA molecule to be amplified millions of times, making it possible to detect minimal traces of DNA. The compactness of the contemporary PCR instruments makes routine sample analysis possible with a minimum amount of laboratory space. Furthermore the technique is effective, robust and straightforward. Our goal was to establish a routine for the detection of DNA from micro-organisms using the PCR technique during the EuroGeoMars simulation campaign. This took place at the Mars Society's Mars Desert Research Station (MDRS) in Utah in February 2009 (organized with the support of the International Lunar Exploration Working Group (ILEWG), NASA Ames and the European Space Research and Technology Centre (ESTEC)). During the MDRS simulation, we showed that it is possible to establish a minimal molecular biology lab in the habitat for the immediate on-site analysis of samples by PCR after sample collection. Soil and water samples were taken at different locations and soil depths. The sample analysis was started immediately after the crew returned to the habitat laboratory. DNA was isolated from micro-organisms and used as a template for PCR analysis of the highly conserved ribosomal DNA to identify representatives of the different groups of micro-organisms (bacteria, archaea and eukarya). The PCR products were visualized by agarose gel electrophoresis and documented by transillumination and digital imaging. The microbial diversity in the collected samples was analysed with respect to sampling depth and the presence or absence of vegetation. For the first time, we have demonstrated that it is possible to perform direct on-site DNA analysis by PCR at MDRS, a simulated planetary habitat in an extreme environment that serves as a model for preparation and optimization of techniques to be used for future Mars exploration.
XMCD study of the induced magnetic moment in non-magnetic Ga and Ge atoms in intermetallic compounds
Authors: Boada R. , Piquer C. , Laguna-Marco M. A. , Chaboy J.
Published: March 2011

In the past few years, we have witnessed the appearance of exotic magnetism of atoms in nano-scaled systems associated with compounds that are non-magnetic in their bulk form. Different models ranging from orbital magnetism delocalized over the whole molecule to localized one associated to the modification of the electronic structure have been proposed. Hence, one of the main challenges is to determine the mechanism that induces both the magnetic moment and the exchange interactions, leading to the ferromagnetic-like behaviour in these nanostructures. Aimed at obtaining a deeper insight into the induction of magnetic moments on nominally non-magnetic atoms, we have performed an XMCD study on rare-earth–iron Laves phase compounds containing Ga or Ge. XMCD probes the magnetic polarization of both Ga and Ge in these compounds. Our results show that when the rare-earth (R) is non-magnetic this polarization is uniquely due to the hybridization with the Fe neighbours, while it is enhanced when R is magnetic due to the Fe–R hybridization. As a consequence, the magnetic polarization of both Ge and Ga atoms differs as this hybridization does.
New X-ray absorption fine structure measurement system under atmospheric pressure in the soft X-ray region at SAGA Light Source
Authors: Okajima Toshihiro , Ohtani Ryota
Published: March 2011

A new X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) measurement system under atmospheric pressure in the soft X-ray region has been installed at the beamline BL11 of Saga Light Source (SAGA-LS) in Japan. XAFS spectra in the lower photon energy region of about 2–4 keV could be newly obtained at the beamline. The system was applied to obtain sulphur K-edge XAFS spectra of solid and oily specimens using fluorescence yield and electron yield modes. The spectra were successfully collected. We anticipate that this new system will have various applications in environmental and biochemical research.
A model for osmium isotopic evolution of metallic solids at the core‐mantle boundary
Authors: Humayun Munir
Published: March 2011

Some plumes are thought to originate at the core‐mantle boundary, but geochemical evidence of core‐mantle interaction is limited to Os isotopes in samples from Hawaii, Gorgona (89 Ma), and Kostomuksha (2.7 Ga). The Os isotopes have been explained by physical entrainment of Earth's liquid outer core into mantle plumes. This model has come into conflict with geophysical estimates of the timing of core formation, high‐pressure experimental determinations of the solid metal‐liquid metal partition coefficients (D), and the absence of expected 182W anomalies. A new model is proposed where metallic liquid from the outer core is partially trapped in a compacting cumulate pile of Fe‐rich nonmetallic precipitates (FeO, FeS, Fe3Si, etc.) at the top of the core and undergoes fractional crystallization precipitating solid metal grains, followed by expulsion of the residual metallic liquid back to the outer core. The Os isotopic composition of the solids and liquids in the cumulate pile is modeled as a function of the residual liquid remaining and the emplacement age using 1 bar D values, with variable amounts of oxygen (0–10 wt %) as the light element. The precipitated solids evolve Os isotope compositions that match the trends for Hawaii (at an emplacement age of 3.5–4.5 Ga; 5%–10% oxygen) and Gorgona (emplacement age < 1.5 Ga; 0%–5% oxygen). The Fe‐rich matrix of the cumulate pile dilutes the precipitated solid metal decoupling the Fe/Mn ratio from Os and W isotopes. The advantages to using precipitated solid metal as the Os host include a lower platinum group element and Ni content to the mantle source region relative to excess iron, miniscule anomalies in 182W (<0.1 ɛ), and no effects for Pb isotopes, etc. A gradual thermomechanical erosion of the cumulate pile results in incorporation of this material into the base of the mantle, where mantle plumes subsequently entrain it. Fractional crystallization of metallic liquids within the CMB provides a consistent explanation of both Os isotope correlations, Os‐W isotope systematics, and Fe/Mn evidence for core‐mantle interaction over the entire Hawaiian source.
Spatial and temporal evolution of the megasplay fault in the Nankai Trough
Authors: Kimura Gaku , Moore Gregory F. , Strasser Michael , Screaton Elizabeth , Curewitz Daniel , Streiff Carolyn , Tobin Harold
Published: March 2011

The temporal and spatial evolution of a seismogenic megasplay fault in the Kumano area, Nankai Trough (southwest Japan), is revealed by detailed investigation of the three‐dimensional structure of the shallow portions of the fault, combined with the results of drilling and dating of cores from Integrated Ocean Drilling Program (IODP) Expedition 316. The ENE striking eastern portion of the splay fault has remained active since the inception of faulting at ∼1.95 Ma. The recent shortening rate is ∼1 m/kyr, which represents ∼1.5%–2.5% of the total plate convergence rate of ∼40–65 m/kyr. The NE striking western portion of the splay fault exhibits a different mode of activity. Early stage activity (before 1.55 Ma) was similar to the eastern portion, but the fault was inactive between 1.55 and 1.24 Ma. The fault was reactivated for a short time at ∼1.24 Ma but again ceased activity after formation of the secondary branch and has been inactive since 1.24 Ma. Cessation of splay fault activity in the western domain after 1.55 Ma may be due to collision with a seamount and resulting bending of the accretionary prism in the splay fault footwall. Continuous activity of the eastern domain of the splay fault after 1.24 Ma may be related to geometrical favorability due to reorientation of the fault after the seamount passed beneath the imbricate thrust zone, leading to initiation of slightly oblique subduction.
Southern Ocean wind response to North Atlantic cooling and the rise in atmospheric CO2: Modeling perspective and paleoceanographic implications
Authors: Lee Shih‐Yu , Chiang John C. H. , Matsumoto Katsumi , Tokos Kathy S.
Published: March 2011

A recent study found enhanced upwelling rates in the Southern Ocean during the last glacial termination that coincided with the deglacial warming in Antarctica and the rise in atmospheric CO2. They hypothesized that the intensification of Southern Hemisphere midlatitude westerlies, the presumed cause of the increased wind‐driven upwelling, was triggered by an initial cooling within the glacial North Atlantic whose influence was then communicated to the southern midlatitudes through an atmospheric teleconnection. In this study, we explore the viability of the above hypothesis using a modeling strategy, focusing on the atmospheric teleconnection. In simulations where North Atlantic cooling was applied, the model Intertropical Convergence Zone shifted southward, and westerlies and wind stress over Southern Ocean increased by as much as 25%. While the perennial westerly anomalies occur over the entire Southern Ocean, they are strongest over the South Pacific during the austral winter. When the wind stress anomalies were applied to an Earth system model incorporating interactive marine biogeochemistry, atmospheric CO2 rises between 20 and 60 ppm, depending on the biological response. We thus confirm the viability of the proposed atmospheric teleconnection hypothesis. The teleconnection appears to involves two distinct steps: first, the North Atlantic cooling shifts the Intertropical Convergence Zone southward, weakening the southern branch of the Hadley circulation, and second, how the altered Hadley circulation in turn modifies the structure of midlatitude westerlies in the South Pacific, via the former's influence on the Southern Hemisphere subtropical jet. This study underscores the control of the Northern Hemisphere has on southern midlatitude westerlies, mediating by tropical circulation, in contrast to past paleoclimate hypotheses that the magnitude and position of the southern midlatitude westerlies was controlled by global mean temperature. Our results do not preclude other potential mechanisms for affecting Southern Ocean ventilation, in particular through oceanic pathways.
Rapid death of duck cells infected with influenza: a potential mechanism for host resistance to H5N1
Authors: Kuchipudi Suresh V , Dunham Stephen P , Nelli Rahul , White Gavin A , Coward Vivien J , Slomka Marek J , Brown Ian H , Chang Kin Chow
Published: March 2011

Aquatic birds are the natural reservoir for most subtypes of influenza A, and a source of novel viruses with the potential to cause human pandemics, fatal zoonotic disease or devastating epizootics in poultry. It is well recognised that waterfowl typically show few clinical signs following influenza A infection, in contrast, terrestrial poultry such as chickens may develop severe disease with rapid death following infection with highly pathogenic avian influenza. This study examined the cellular response to influenza infection in primary cells derived from resistant (duck) and susceptible (chicken) avian hosts. Paradoxically, we observed that duck cells underwent rapid cell death following infection with low pathogenic avian H2N3, classical swine H1N1 and ‘classical’ highly pathogenic H5N1 viruses. Dying cells showed morphological features of apoptosis, increased DNA fragmentation and activation of caspase 3/7. Following infection of chicken cells, cell death occurred less rapidly, accompanied by reduced DNA fragmentation and caspase activation. Duck cells produced similar levels of viral RNA but less infectious virus, in comparison with chicken cells. Such rapid cell death was not observed in duck cells infected with a contemporary Eurasian lineage H5N1 fatal to ducks. The induction of rapid death in duck cells may be part of a mechanism of host resistance to influenza A, with the loss of this response leading to increased susceptibility to emergent strains of H5N1. These studies provide novel insights that should help resolve the long‐standing enigma of host–pathogen relationships for highly pathogenic and zoonotic avian influenza.
Macropinocytosis: an endocytic pathway for internalising large gulps
Authors: Lim Jet Phey , Gleeson Paul A
Published: March 2011

Macropinocytosis is a regulated form of endocytosis that mediates the non‐selective uptake of solute molecules, nutrients and antigens. It is an actin‐dependent process initiated from surface membrane ruffles that give rise to large endocytic vacuoles called macropinosomes. Macropinocytosis is important in a range of physiological processes; it is highly active in macrophages and dendritic cells where it is a major pathway for the capture of antigens, it is relevant to cell migration and tumour metastasis and it represents a portal of cell entry exploited by a range of pathogens. The molecular basis for the formation and maturation of macropinosomes has only recently begun to be defined. Here, we review the general characteristics of macropinocytosis, describe some of the regulators of this pathway, which have been identified to date and highlight strategies to explore the relevance of this endocytosis pathway in vivo.
Erratum: Aerobic denitrification in permeable Wadden Sea sediments
Authors: Gao Hang , Schreiber Frank , Collins Gavin , Jensen Marlene M , Kostka Joel E , Lavik Gaute , de Beer Dirk , Zhou Huai-yang , Kuypers Marcel M M
Published: March 2011

Correction to: The ISME Journal (2010) 4, 417–426; doi:10.1038/ismej.2009.127 Since the publication of this paper, the authors have noticed an error in the list of co-authors and affiliations. The correct list of co-authors and affiliations is shown below. Hang Gao1,2,3, Frank Schreiber1, Gavin Collins1,4, Marlene M Jensen1,5, Olivera Svitlica1, Joel E Kostka1,6, Gaute Lavik1, Dirk de Beer1, Huai-yang Zhou2,7 and Marcel MM Kuypers1
Molecular dynamics analysis of conserved hydrophobic and hydrophilic bond-interaction networks in ErbB family kinases
Authors: Shih Andrew J. , Telesco Shannon E. , Choi Sung-Hee , Lemmon Mark A. , Radhakrishnan Ravi
Published: March 2011

The EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor)/ErbB/HER (human EGFR) family of kinases contains four homologous receptor tyrosine kinases that are important regulatory elements in key signalling pathways. To elucidate the atomistic mechanisms of dimerization-dependent activation in the ErbB family, we have performed molecular dynamics simulations of the intracellular kinase domains of three members of the ErbB family (those with known kinase activity), namely EGFR, ErbB2 (HER2) and ErbB4 (HER4), in different molecular contexts: monomer against dimer and wild-type against mutant. Using bioinformatics and fluctuation analyses of the molecular dynamics trajectories, we relate sequence similarities to correspondence of specific bond-interaction networks and collective dynamical modes. We find that in the active conformation of the ErbB kinases, key subdomain motions are co-ordinated through conserved hydrophilic interactions: activating bond-networks consisting of hydrogen bonds and salt bridges. The inactive conformations also demonstrate conserved bonding patterns (albeit less extensive) that sequester key residues and disrupt the activating bond network. Both conformational states have distinct hydrophobic advantages through context-specific hydrophobic interactions. We show that the functional (activating) asymmetric kinase dimer interface forces a corresponding change in the hydrophobic and hydrophilic interactions that characterize the inactivating bond network, resulting in motion of the αC-helix through allostery. Several of the clinically identified activating kinase mutations of EGFR act in a similar fashion to disrupt the inactivating bond network. The present molecular dynamics study reveals a fundamental difference in the sequence of events in EGFR activation compared with that described for the Src kinase Hck.
Movement of hClC-1 C-termini during common gating and limits on their cytoplasmic location
Authors: Ma Linlin , Rychkov Grigori Y. , Bykova Ekaterina A. , Zheng Jie , Bretag Allan H.
Published: March 2011

Functionally, the dimeric human skeletal muscle chloride channel hClC-1 is characterized by two distinctive gating processes, fast (protopore) gating and slow (common) gating. Of these, common gating is poorly understood, but extensive conformational rearrangement is suspected. To examine this possibility, we used FRET (fluorescence resonance energy transfer) and assessed the effects of manipulating the common-gating process. Closure of the common gate was accompanied by a separation of the C-termini, whereas, with opening, the C-termini approached each other more closely. These movements were considerably smaller than those seen in ClC-0. To estimate the C-terminus depth within the cytoplasm we constructed a pair of split hClC-1 fragments tagged extracellularly and intracellularly respectively. These not only combined appropriately to rescue channel function, but we detected positive FRET between them. This restricts the C-termini of hClC-1 to a position close to its membrane-resident domain. From mutants in which fast or common gating were affected, FRET revealed a close linkage between the two gating processes with the carboxyl group of Glu232 apparently acting as the final effector for both.