bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of the thrombospondin (TSP)‐II gene in Penaeus monodon and a novel role of TSP‐like proteins in an induction of shrimp sperm acrosome reaction
Authors: Magerd Sirilug , Asuvapongpatana Somluk , Vanichviriyakit Rapeepun , Chotwiwatthanakun Charoonroj , Weerachatyanukul Wattana
Published: April 2013

We have recently shown that water‐soluble materials from the egg extracellular cortical rods (wsCRs) exert the ability to induce the sperm acrosome reaction in Penaeus monodon. In this study, we further demonstrated that the thrombospondin protein family (TSP) existed in wsCRs, and that their mRNA transcripts were detected in developing oocytes as early as stage I. Full sequence analysis revealed that our pmTSP sequence was considerably different from the recently reported pmTSP in the 5′ nonconserved region and in many TSP signature domains, hence, the name pmTSP‐II was given to our variant. The transcripts of pmTSP‐II were detected only in early developing oocytes (stage‐I and ‐II) while TSP‐like proteins were detected in all developing oocytes, particularly at the outer rim of cortical rods situated in the extracellular crypts of the mature, stage‐IV oocytes. In addition, wsCRs contained anti‐TSP‐reactive proteins, suggesting that TSP‐like proteins are dissolved in and are part of the egg water during spawning. The functional importance of TSP‐like proteins was evident by the interference of a wsCR‐induced acrosome reaction response with anti‐TSP in a concentration‐dependent manner. In summary, we found that pmTSP‐II transcripts were present in the developing oocytes and pmTSP‐II protein accumulated in cortical rods, which are partly secreted and thus solubilized to produce dissolved TSP‐like proteins that participate in induction of the sperm acrosome reaction—a novel reproductive role for TSP protein family. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 80: 393–402, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Mapping glutamate in subcortical brain structures using high‐resolution GluCEST MRI
Authors: Cai Kejia , Singh Anup , Roalf David R. , Nanga Ravi Prakash Reddy , Haris Mohammad , Hariharan Hari , Gur Ruben , Reddy Ravinder
Published: April 2013

In vivo measurement of glutamate (Glu) in brain subcortex can elucidate the role these structures play in cognition and neuropsychiatric disorders. However, accurate quantification of Glu in subcortical regions is challenging. Recently, a novel MRI method based on the Glu chemical exchange saturation transfer (GluCEST) effect has been developed for detecting brain Glu in millimolar concentrations. Here, we use GluCEST to map Glu distributions in subcortical structures of the human brain (e.g. amygdala, hippocampus). Overall, GluCEST was ~40% higher in gray matter than in white matter. Within the subcortical gray matters, amygdala showed the highest GluCEST contrast. Utilizing MR spectroscopic data, in vivo GluCEST detection sensitivity (~0.8% mM−1) in subcortical gray matter was evaluated and was consistent with the previously reported values. In general, the GluCEST map approximates the Glu receptor distribution reported in previous positron emission tomography (PET) studies. These findings suggest that high‐resolution GluCEST MRI of subcortical brain structures may prove to be a useful tool in diagnosis of brain disorders or treatment responses. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stability analysis of finite difference schemes revisited: A study of decoupled solution strategies for coupled multifield problems
Authors: Ehlers W. , Zinatbakhsh S. , Markert B.
Published: April 2013

Many problems in engineering, physics or other disciplines require an integrated treatment of coupled heterogeneous fields. The mathematical models of such problems commonly consist of a coupled PDE system. Considerable progress has been made in the development of schemes to solve such systems resulting in a wide spectrum of monolithic and decoupled numerical solution approaches. In particular, the flexibility offered by the decoupled strategies in choosing appropriate solution methods and adjustable time‐step sizes has motivated the elaboration of these schemes. However, the way of decoupling can influence the stability of the resulting solution algorithm and, hence, urges a comprehensive stability analysis.

The purpose of this contribution is to elucidate the salient points in the stability analysis of the numerical solution schemes. To this end, we introduce a general framework for the stability analysis of solution strategies and provide an easy‐to‐use procedure to find the necessary stability condition. The procedure is tested against decoupled solution strategies for volume‐ and surface‐coupled problems, namely, thermoelastodynamics, porous media dynamics, and fluid– and structure–structure interaction. In this context, the influence of explicit and implicit predictors and the sequence of the time integration on the stability condition is carefully examined. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Computational study of pyrazine‐based derivatives and their N‐oxides as high energy materials
Authors: Lin He , Chen Peng‐Yuan , Zhu Shun‐Guan , Zhang Lin , Peng Xin‐Hua , Li Hong‐Zhen
Published: April 2013

Gas‐phase heats of formation (HOF), solid‐phase HOF, detonation properties, electronic structure and thermal stability for a series of polynitro pyrazine derivatives containing three heterocycles have been investigated using density functional theory. It is found that the nitro group is an efficient tool to improve HOF of pyrazine derivatives. Furthermore, detonation velocities and detonation pressures of these compounds are evaluated using empirical Kamlet–Jacobs equations. As a result, it indicates that the nitro group is useful to enhance detonation properties. Detonation velocities of five compounds are 9.67, 9.20, 9.74, 9.76 and 9.87 km/s, respectively, which are significantly larger than that of HMX (9.10 km/s). Bond dissociation energy is also performed to investigate their thermal stability, showing that thermal stability of these compounds is little affected by nitro groups or the position of substituent groups. Considering solid‐phase HOF, detonation properties and thermal stability, some of pyrazine derivatives can be potential high energy density materials. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Transfer of functional memory devices to any substrate
Authors: Choi Ji‐Min , Kim Moon‐Seok , Seol Myeong‐Lok , Choi Yang‐Kyu
Published: April 2013

Electronic devices on unconventional substrates are attractive beyond the conventional solid‐state rigid electronic system or even flexible electronics. Here, by use of the transfer printing technique, we report the memory devices onto a range of unconventional substrates, including paper, an insect (cicada), glass, polyethersulphone, polyimide, double‐sided tape, Al foil, fabric, a mask, a leather wallet, a name card, a banknote, a latex glove, and a squeezed plastic bottle. The device can be possibly realized on any substrate. The memory structure used in this work is non‐volatile resistive random access memory (RRAM). Constraints imposed by process compatibility between the substrates and device materials are completely eliminated by the use of the transfer printing techniques. It is confirmed that the electrical characteristics of the RRAM devices do not degrade during the transfer process. Stable resistive switching properties, reliable endurance levels, and good retention characteristics are demonstrated. The mechanical stability is also analysed and an encapsulation protection layer on top of the memory devices is suggested for long‐term reliability. The possibility of the realization of integrated electronic systems onto various substrates will enable the versatile use of these electronics anywhere and anytime in many different environments.

magnified image

(© 2013 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A System Framework of Security Management in Enterprise Systems
Authors: Wang Feng , Ge Baoshan , Zhang Li , Chen Yong , Xin Yang , Li Xiayuan
Published: April 2013

After analysing the security conditions in current Enterprise Systems (ES), this paper proposes a systematic framework that is based on the Secure Sockets Layer Virtual Private Network (SSL‐VPN) for improving security management. This framework takes account of several key aspects such as channel strategy, network pattern, workstation authentication, identity authentication, security workflow, etc. The proposed framework has the following advantages: low cost, high performance, easy to implement, and strong security control pattern. In addition, this paper proposes a dynamic security strategy that is about authorizing user ID and roles dynamically and conducting real‐time mapping via agent or proxy technologies. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Basic study of a ship navigator's mental workload using salivary NO\documentclass{article}\usepackage{amsmath}\usepackage{amssymb}\usepackage{amsbsy}\usepackage{amsfonts}\pagestyle{empty}\begin{document}$_{3}^{-}$ \end{document}
Authors: Kitamura Kenichi , Murai Koji , Wakida Shin‐ichi , Miyado Takashi , Fukushi Keiichi , Hayashi Yuji
Published: April 2013

Evaluation of the mental workload during training for ship handling has usually depended on professionals (captain, pilot) who have lots of experience on board. We are attempting to evaluate a ship navigator's mental workload based on a physiological index. The physiological indices, namely heart rate variability (R–R interval), nasal temperature, and salivary amylase, are good indices for reading the mental workload during ship handling. Moreover, we find the possibility of using salivary NO\documentclass{article}\usepackage{amsmath}\usepackage{amssymb}\usepackage{amsbsy}\usepackage{amsfonts}\pagestyle{empty}\begin{document}$_{3}^{-}$ \end{document} as a good index for evaluating the ship navigator's mental workload. Salivary NO\documentclass{article}\usepackage{amsmath}\usepackage{amssymb}\usepackage{amsbsy}\usepackage{amsfonts}\pagestyle{empty}\begin{document}$_{3}^{-}$ \end{document} is expected to have a specific characteristic to represent quick response on the spot and the trend. We confirmed the response of students during simulator training, and then carried out the experiment on professionals on a real ship. We propose that salivary NO\documentclass{article}\usepackage{amsmath}\usepackage{amssymb}\usepackage{amsbsy}\usepackage{amsfonts}\pagestyle{empty}\begin{document}$_{3}^{-}$\end{document} can show a ship navigator's stress for ship handling in the simulator and on a real ship. This work to evaluate the ship navigator's mental workload using salivary NO\documentclass{article}\usepackage{amsmath}\usepackage{amssymb}\usepackage{amsbsy}\usepackage{amsfonts}\pagestyle{empty}\begin{document}$_{3}^{-}$\end{document} is the first attempt worldwide. © 2013 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Impact of seasonal variability and monitoring mode on the adequacy of fiber‐optic distributed temperature sensing at aquifer‐river interfaces
Authors: Krause Stefan , Blume Theresa
Published: April 2013

Key Points

FO‐DTS signal strength varies significantly between different seasons

Choice of FO‐DTS monitoring‐mode substantial impacts on survey results

Two‐way single‐ended averaging provides highest accuracy of signal detection
Bilateral Axillo‐Breast Approach Robotic Thyroidectomy for Graves’ Disease: An Initial Experience in a Single Institute
Authors: Kwon Hyungju , Koo Do Hoon , Choi June Young , Kim Eunyoung , Lee Kyu Eun , Youn Yeo‐Kyu
Published: April 2013

Background

Bilateral axillo‐breast approach (BABA) robotic thyroidectomy has shown excellent cosmetic and surgical outcomes. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the safety, feasibility, and initial outcome of this procedure in patients with Graves’ disease.

Methods

From June 2008 to July 2001, a total of 30 patients with Graves’ disease were reviewed retrospectively. Patient demographics, operative indications, and surgical variables, including operative time, blood loss, excised thyroid weight, and complications, were collected and investigated.

Results

The thyroidectomies were classified as total (n = 21), near‐total (n = 6), or subtotal (n = 3). There were five indications for surgery: concomitant thyroid carcinoma or suspicious nodule (n = 22), recurrence after antithyroid medication (n = 2), local compressive symptoms (n = 1), patient’s preference (n = 4), and side effects of antithyroid medication (n = 1). The mean operative time, console time, blood loss, and excised thyroid weight were 190 min (range: 105–298 min), 113 min (range: 60–227 min), 229 mL (range: 50–550 mL), and 36.6 g (range: 7.8–123.0 g), respectively. There were no cases of postoperative bleeding or conversions to open surgery. Postoperative transient hypoparathyroidism and vocal cord palsy occurred in 13 (43.3 %) and 4 (13.3 %) cases. Permanent hypoparathyroidism occurred in 1 (3.3 %) case. All patients were satisfied with the cosmetic outcomes.

Conclusions

BABA robotic thyroidectomy is a feasible and safe treatment for Graves’ disease. It is recommended as an alternative for patients who are concerned by the cosmetic effects of traditional thyroidectomy.
Primary bile acids as potential biomarkers for the clinical grading of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy
Authors: Chen Jianbo , Deng Wenping , Wang Junwei , Shao Yong , Ou Minglin , Ding Min
Published: April 2013

Objective

To identify possible biomarkers for the clinical grading of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) through serum bile acid (SBA) profiling in women with ICP.

Methods

Serum samples were collected in the last trimester of pregnancy from 33 women with severe ICP, 28 women with mild ICP, and 35 women with a normal pregnancy. The SBA levels were determined by high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry.

Results

Patients with severe ICP had significantly higher serum levels of taurochenodeoxycholic acid, tauroursodeoxycholic acid, glycocholic acid (GCA), taurocholic acid (TCA), and glycochenodeoxycholic acid than women with mild ICP or a normal pregnancy. Primary bile acid species, in particular TCA and GCA, were the main bile acids detected and their levels were significantly higher in the severe ICP group than in the other 2 groups.

Conclusion

There is an obvious difference in the SBA profiles of women with severe ICP and those with mild ICP, indicating that primary bile acids may be useful biomarkers for the clinical grading of ICP. Implementation of primary bile acid testing in clinical practice may help clinicians to determine the appropriate management strategy for patients with ICP.
A multicenter comparative study of UCu200, TCu380A, and medicated γ‐IUD devices inserted immediately after vacuum aspiration
Authors: Hu Xiaopu , Li Li , Zou Yan , Wu Shangchun
Published: April 2013

Objective

To compare safety and efficacy among 3 types of intrauterine device (IUD), namely UCu200, TCu380A, and medicated γ‐IUD, when inserted after vacuum aspiration.

Methods

In a multicenter randomized comparative study, 1800 parous women requesting an IUD were enrolled in 12 centers across China in 2004–2005. The women received 1 of the 3 types of IUD and were followed‐up for 12 months.

Results

Among the participants, 596 received the UCu200, 591 received the TCu380A, and 594 received the medicated γ‐IUD. No pregnancy occurred during the follow‐up period. The expulsion rate was 4.13 per 100 women (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.83–5.75) for the UCu200, 5.16 (95% CI, 0.92–6.96) for the TCu380A, and 2.73 (95% CI, 0.67–4.05) for the medicated γ‐IUD. The rate of medical removal of the UCu200, TCu380A, and medicated γ‐IUD was 3.60 (95% CI, 0.77–5.11), 2.25 (95% CI, 0.62–3.46), and 1.02 (95% CI, 0.41–1.83), respectively.

Conclusion

Immediate insertion of the device after vacuum aspiration was found to be safe and effective for all 3 types of IUD. Compared with the other IUDs, the medicated γ‐IUD had a lower rate of medical removal and might be the most appropriate for broad use.

www.chictr.org: ChiCTR‐TRC‐12002395
The British Decision to Upgrade Polaris, 1970–4
Authors: PARR HELEN
Published: April 2013

This article adopts a political approach to examine the reasons why Edward Heath's government wanted to upgrade Polaris and the reasons why they did so by way of a programme called Super Antelope, to improve the front-ends of the missiles against Soviet Anti-Ballistic Missile defence, as opposed to the alternatives on offer. It argues that the political contexts within which Heath took the decision have been insufficiently understood, and shows that the acceptance of the ‘Moscow criterion’ – the understanding that Britain had to have the capability to destroy Moscow – by central government represented continuity in Britain's cold war stance.
Role of Nucleation-Promoting Factors in Mouse Early Embryo Development
Authors: Wang Qiao-Chu , Liu Jun , Wang Fei , Duan Xing , Dai Xiao-Xin , Wang Teng , Liu Hong-Lin , Cui Xiang-Shun , Sun Shao-Chen , Kim Nam-Hyung
Published: April 2013

During mitosis nucleation-promoting factors (NPFs) bind to the Arp2/3 complex and activate actin assembly. JMY and WAVE2 are two critical members of the NPFs. Previous studies have demonstrated that NPFs promote multiple processes such as cell migration and cytokinesis. However, the role of NPFs in development of mammalian embryos is still unknown. Results of the present study show that the NPFs JMY and WAVE2 are critical for cytokinesis during development of mouse embryos. Both JMY and WAVE2 are expressed in mouse embryos. After injection of JMY or WAVE2 siRNA, all embryos failed to develop to the morula or blastocyst stages. Moreover, using fluorescence intensity analysis, we found that the expression of actin decreased, and multiple nuclei were observed within a single cell indicating that NPFs-induced actin reduction caused the failure of cell division. In addition, injection of JMY and WAVE2 siRNA also caused ARP2 degradation, indicating that involvement of NPFs in development of mouse embryos is mainly through regulation of ARP2/3-induced actin assembly. Taken together, these data suggested that WAVE2 and JMY are involved in development of mouse embryos, and their regulation may be through a NPFs-Arp2/3-actin pathway.
Differential freshwater flagellate community response to bacterial food quality with a focus on Limnohabitans bacteria
Authors: Šimek Karel , Kasalický Vojtěch , Jezbera Jan , Horňák Karel , Nedoma Jiří , Hahn Martin W , Bass David , Jost Steffen , Boenigk Jens
Published: April 2013

Different bacterial strains can have different value as food for heterotrophic nanoflagellates (HNF), thus modulating HNF growth and community composition. We examined the influence of prey food quality using four Limnohabitans strains, one Polynucleobacter strain and one freshwater actinobacterial strain on growth (growth rate, length of lag phase and growth efficiency) and community composition of a natural HNF community from a freshwater reservoir. Pyrosequencing of eukaryotic small subunit rRNA amplicons was used to assess time-course changes in HNF community composition. All four Limnohabitans strains and the Polynucleobacter strain yielded significant HNF community growth while the actinobacterial strain did not although it was detected in HNF food vacuoles. Notably, even within the Limnohabitans strains we found significant prey-related differences in HNF growth parameters, which could not be related only to size of the bacterial prey. Sequence data characterizing the HNF communities showed also that different bacterial prey items induced highly significant differences in community composition of flagellates. Generally, Stramenopiles dominated the communities and phylotypes closely related to Pedospumella (Chrysophyceae) were most abundant bacterivorous flagellates rapidly reacting to addition of the bacterial prey of high food quality.
α-Lipoic acid enhances endogenous peroxisome-proliferator-activated receptor-γ to ameliorate experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis in mice
Authors: Wang Kai-Chen , Tsai Ching-Piao , Lee Chao-Lin , Chen Shao-Yuan , Lin Gu-Jiun , Yen Mao-Hsiung , Sytwu Huey-Kang , Chen Shyi-Jou
Published: April 2013

ALA (α-lipoic acid) is a natural, endogenous antioxidant that acts as a PPAR-γ (peroxisome-proliferator-activated receptor-γ) agonist to counteract oxidative stress. Thus far, the antioxidative and immunomodulatory effects of ALA on EAE (experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis) are not well understood. In this study, we found that ALA restricts the infiltration of inflammatory cells into the CNS (central nervous system) in MOG (myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein)-EAE mice, thus reducing the disease severity. In addition, we revealed that ALA significantly suppresses the number and percentage of encephalitogenic Th1 and Th17 cells and increases splenic Treg-cells (regulatory T-cells). Strikingly, we further demonstrated that ALA induces endogenous PPAR-γ centrally and peripherally but has no effect on HO-1 (haem oxygenase 1). Together, these data suggest that ALA can up-regulate endogenous systemic and central PPAR-γ and enhance systemic Treg-cells to inhibit the inflammatory response and ameliorate MOG-EAE. In conclusion, our data provide the first evidence that ALA can augment the production of PPAR-γ in vivo and modulate adaptive immunity both centrally and peripherally in EAE and may reveal further antioxidative and immunomodulatory mechanisms for the application of ALA in human MS (multiple sclerosis).
Solar photocatalytic oxidation and disinfection of municipal wastewater using advanced oxidation processes based on pH, catalyst dose, and oxidant
Authors: Singh Chandan , Chaudhary Rubina , Gandhi Kavita
Published: April 2013

There are great interests in photocatalytic oxidation of contaminants using advanced oxidation processes (AOP) based on photocatalytic oxidation in recent years. The main aim of the paper is to develop a method which takes care of energy and water conservation together. The study was performed on photocatalytic disinfection of total coliform (TC) bacteria as water microbial pollution and reducing the chemical oxygen demand (COD) as organic pollution index using catalytic and oxidant in present of sun light. The municipal wastewater was monitored for TC and in then was irradiated with solar light, solar light/TiO2, and solar light/TiO2/H2O2. Various parameters such as contact time, pH, and different concentration of TiO2 and H2O2 were studied for their effect on reaction process. The result showed that in presence of solar light, catalyst, and oxidant, very effective disinfection and reduction of TC and COD took place. 95.2% and 97% of TC and COD were reduced by irradiation for 240-300 min. Based on the results of various AOP combinations, Solar photolytic, solar/TiO2, Solar/TiO2/H2O2, the rate of COD, and TC removal was in the order of TiO2/H2O2 > TiO2 > Solar photolytic. It can be suggested as an effective treatment method for wastewater containing microbial and organic contamination.
Microscopic derivation of particle-based coarse-grained dynamics
Authors: Izvekov Sergei
Published: April 2013

In this paper we revisit the derivation of equations of motion for coarse-grained (CG) particles from the microscopic Hamiltonian dynamics of the underlying atomistic system in equilibrium. The derivation is based on the projection operator method and time-convolution equation. We demonstrate that due to the energy exchange between CG and intraparticle phase space coordinates in the microscopic system, the choice of projection operator is not unique, leading to different CG equations of motion that have the form of the nonlinear generalized Langevin equation (GLE). We derive the idempotence properties for the projection operators along the system trajectories and show that these properties result in streaming terms of the respective GLEs that are conservative forces and allow the expression of the non-conservative forces explicitly through thermodynamic averages, which can be measured from the microscopic simulations. The difference between GLEs that are presented herein lies in how the non-conservative forces are partitioned into dissipative and projected contributions. We compute the projected force and analyze conditions under which the projected (stochastic) force is orthogonal to (uncorrelated with) the momenta of CG particles, therefore justifying a transition to a framework of stochastic differential equations. We show that a position- and momentum-independent memory function appears only if the projected force is fully decoupled from the past CG positions and momenta, respectively. In the case of non-vanishing correlations between the projected force and the CG coordinates in past times, we derive explicitly the position- and momentum-dependent memory function in a form of projection onto a space spanned by N-order Hermite polynomials. The expressions presented herein can be used to construct a hierarchy of thermodynamically consistent CG models with momentum-dependent memory functions. They can also be used to design computational schemes for obtaining the parameters for GLEs and their variants such as dissipative particle dynamics equations from the microscopic data. We illustrate these applications by presenting the GLE with a memory function that is quadratic in the particle momenta.
Vortex state formation and stability in single and double layer nanorings and nanodisks
Authors: Zhu Meng , Mathieu Christoph , Scholz Werner , Dubbaka Sridhar , Kautzky Michael
Published: April 2013

Quasi-static magnetic properties of microscopic Ni80Fe20 disks, rings, and double layered disks and rings were studied via longitudinal magneto-optical Kerr effect (MOKE) and magnetic force microscopy (MFM), concomitant with micromagnetic simulations to elucidate the systems' vortex properties and remagnetization behavior. The features were fabricated lithographically, with diameters between 0.6 and 2 micrometers, and thicknesses of 50 and 100 nm. Key results are: (i) Dual-vortex to single-vortex transitions were observed at nucleation in 100 nm thick disks. (ii) Vortex nucleation and annihilation fields increase with single layer disk thickness whereas they decrease with thickness in single layer ring features. (iii) Double-layer disks separated by a Ru spacer indicate interactions of vortex cores at nucleation and avoidance of vortex core movements, whereas double-layer rings show successive switching in- and out- of vortex states with strong interactions only at vortex-to-onion transition.
Solving the inverse problem of magnetisation–stress resolution
Authors: Staples S. G. H. , Vo C. , Cowell D. M. J. , Freear S. , Ives C. , Varcoe B. T. H.
Published: April 2013

Magnetostriction in various metals has been known since 1842, recently the focus has shifted away from ferrous metals, towards materials with a straightforward or exaggerated stress magnetostriction relationship. However, there is an increasing interest in understanding ferrous metal relationships, especially steels, because of its widespread use in building structures, transportation infrastructure, and pipelines. The aim of this paper is to solve the inverse problem of determining stress from an observed magnetic field which implies a given magnetic structure and to demonstrate that theoretical calculations using a multi-physics modeling technique agree with this experimental observation.
Deposition of gold nanoparticles on liquid phase epitaxy grown garnet films and Faraday rotation enhancement
Authors: Lang G. S. , Bowen D. , Krafft C. , Mayergoyz I. D.
Published: April 2013

Plasmon resonance induced Faraday rotation enhancement in liquid phase epitaxy grown garnet films with gold nanoparticles on their surfaces is discussed. Experimental results are presented, which reveal stronger Faraday rotation enhancement for gold nanoparticles obtained by the annealing of thicker gold films evaporated on garnet film surfaces. This stronger Faraday rotation enhancement can be attributed to larger dimensions and separations of gold nanoparticles, which increase the extent of penetration of plasmon resonance induced electric fields into garnet films.
Origin of ferromagnetism in BaTiO3 nanoparticles prepared by mechanical milling
Authors: Phan The-Long , Zhang P. , Yang D. S. , Thanh T. D. , Tuan D. A. , Yu S. C.
Published: April 2013

Recent studies have pointed out an existence of the room-temperature ferromagnetism in nanostructured BaTiO3 materials. It has been thought that the ferromagnetism is due to intrinsic defects. To elucidate this issue, we have prepared BaTiO3 nanoparticles by mechanical milling, starting from diamagnetic/nonmagnetic BaTiO3 powders, and then investigated their magnetic properties. Our idea is motivated by the fact that the mechanical milling introduces more lattice defects to a ground material. If so, the ferromagnetic (FM) order will increase with increasing the density of defects. Here, the defect density can be changed upon the milling time (tm). Our magnetic measurements at 300 K have indicated that the FM order increases with increasing tm as expected. To understand the nature of ferromagnetism, we studied X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) spectra of the samples for the Ti K-edge. The shift of the absorption edge towards lower energies of Ti3+ with increasing tm, proving an increase in Ti3+ concentration, was found. Detailed studies and analyses of XAFS and electron-spin-resonance spectra give the evidence that the ferromagnetism in BaTiO3 nanoparticles is due to intrinsic defects, in which oxygen vacancies and interstitials, and Ti3+ created during the milling play decisive role.
Grain structure analysis and effect on electromigration reliability in nanoscale Cu interconnects
Authors: Cao Linjun , Ganesh K. J. , Zhang Lijuan , Aubel Oliver , Hennesthal Christian , Hauschildt Meike , Ferreira Paulo J. , Ho Paul S.
Published: April 2013

The grain structure in Cu interconnects of the 45 nm node was analyzed to yield grain orientation and boundary characteristics using a high-resolution electron diffraction technique. A dominant sidewall growth of {111} grains was observed, reflecting the importance of interfacial energy in controlling grain growth below 70 nm linewidth. The grain structure was used to identify flux divergent sites for void formation under electromigration (EM) and to analyze the effect on EM statistics for Cu lines with CoWP capping using a microstructure-based model. This analysis established a correlation between the microstructure of Cu nanolines, void formation kinetics, and EM statistics.
Electronic structures of oxygen-deficient Ta2O5
Authors: Yang Yong , Nahm Ho-Hyun , Sugino Osamu , Ohno Takahisa
Published: April 2013

We provide a first-principles description of the crystalline and oxygen-deficient Ta2O5 using refined computational methods and models. By performing calculations on a number of candidate structures, we determined the low-temperature phase and several stable oxygen vacancy configurations, which are notably different from the previous results. The most stable charge-neutral vacancy site induces a shallow level near the bottom of conduction band. Stability of different charge states is studied. Based on the results, we discuss the implications of the level structures on experiments,including the leakage current in Ta2O5-based electronic devices and catalysts.
Epoxide as a precursor to secondary organic aerosol formation from isoprene photooxidation in the presence of nitrogen oxides
Authors: Lin Ying-Hsuan , Zhang Haofei , Pye Havala O. T. , Zhang Zhenfa , Marth Wendy J. , Park Sarah , Arashiro Maiko , Cui Tianqu , Budisulistiorini Sri Hapsari , Sexton Kenneth G. , Vizuete William , Xie Ying , Luecken Deborah J. , Piletic Ivan R. , Edney Edward O. , Bartolotti Libero J. , Gold Avram , Surratt Jason D.
Published: April 2013

Isoprene is a substantial contributor to the global secondary organic aerosol (SOA) burden, with implications for public health and the climate system. The mechanism by which isoprene-derived SOA is formed and the influence of environmental conditions, however, remain unclear. We present evidence from controlled smog chamber experiments and field measurements that in the presence of high levels of nitrogen oxides (NO
x
= NO + NO
2
) typical of urban atmospheres, 2-methyloxirane-2-carboxylic acid (methacrylic acid epoxide, MAE) is a precursor to known isoprene-derived SOA tracers, and ultimately to SOA. We propose that MAE arises from decomposition of the OH adduct of methacryloylperoxynitrate (MPAN). This hypothesis is supported by the similarity of SOA constituents derived from MAE to those from photooxidation of isoprene, methacrolein, and MPAN under high-NO
x
conditions. Strong support is further derived from computational chemistry calculations and Community Multiscale Air Quality model simulations, yielding predictions consistent with field observations. Field measurements taken in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, considered along with the modeling results indicate the atmospheric significance and relevance of MAE chemistry across the United States, especially in urban areas heavily impacted by isoprene emissions. Identification of MAE implies a major role of atmospheric epoxides in forming SOA from isoprene photooxidation. Updating current atmospheric modeling frameworks with MAE chemistry could improve the way that SOA has been attributed to isoprene based on ambient tracer measurements, and lead to SOA parameterizations that better capture the dependency of yield on NO
x
.
In situ X-ray studies of adlayer-induced crystal nucleation at the liquid–liquid interface
Authors: Elsen Annika , Festersen Sven , Runge Benjamin , Koops Christian T. , Ocko Benjamin M. , Deutsch Moshe , Seeck Oliver H. , Murphy Bridget M. , Magnussen Olaf M.
Published: April 2013

Crystal nucleation and growth at a liquid–liquid interface is studied on the atomic scale by in situ Å-resolution X-ray scattering methods for the case of liquid Hg and an electrochemical dilute electrolyte containing Pb
2+
, F
−
, and Br
−
ions. In the regime negative of the Pb amalgamation potential

V, no change is observed from the surface-layered structure of pure Hg. Upon potential-induced release of Pb
2+
from the Hg bulk at

, the formation of an intriguing interface structure is observed, comprising a well-defined 7.6-Å–thick adlayer, decorated with structurally related 3D crystallites. Both are identified by their diffraction peaks as PbFBr, preferentially aligned with their

axis along the interface normal. X-ray reflectivity shows the adlayer to consist of a stack of five ionic layers, forming a single-unit-cell–thick crystalline PbFBr precursor film, which acts as a template for the subsequent quasiepitaxial 3D crystal growth. This growth behavior is assigned to the combined action of electrostatic and short-range chemical interactions.
Rig-I regulates NF-κB activity through binding to
Nf-κb1
3′-UTR mRNA
Authors: Zhang Hong-Xin , Liu Zi-Xing , Sun Yue-Ping , Zhu Jiang , Lu Shun-Yuan , Liu Xue-Song , Huang Qiu-Hua , Xie Yin-Yin , Zhu Hou-Bao , Dang Su-Ying , Chen Hai-Feng , Zheng Guang-Yong , Li Yi-Xue , Kuang Ying , Fei Jian , Chen Sai-Juan , Chen Zhu , Wang Zhu-Gang
Published: April 2013

Retinoic acid inducible gene I (RIG-I) senses viral RNAs and triggers innate antiviral responses through induction of type I IFNs and inflammatory cytokines. However, whether RIG-I interacts with host cellular RNA remains undetermined. Here we report that Rig-I interacts with multiple cellular mRNAs, especially
Nf-κb1
. Rig-I is required for NF-κB activity via regulating Nf-κb1 expression at posttranscriptional levels. It interacts with the multiple binding sites within 3′-UTR of
Nf-κb1
mRNA. Further analyses reveal that three distinct tandem motifs enriched in the 3′-UTR fragments can be recognized by Rig-I. The 3′-UTR binding with Rig-I plays a critical role in normal translation of Nf-κb1 by recruiting the ribosomal proteins [ribosomal protein L13 (Rpl13) and Rpl8] and rRNAs (18S and 28S). Down-regulation of Rig-I or Rpl13 significantly reduces Nf-κb1 and 3′-UTR–mediated luciferase expression levels. These findings indicate that Rig-I functions as a positive regulator for NF-κB signaling and is involved in multiple biological processes in addition to host antivirus immunity.
Children Online
Authors: Baron Alistair , Rayson Paul , Greenwood Phil , Walkerdine James , Rashid Awais
Published: March 2013

The collection of representative corpus samples of both child language and online (CMC) language varieties is crucial for linguistic research that is motivated by applications to the protection of children online. In this paper, we present an extensive survey of corpora available for these two areas. Although a significant amount of research has been undertaken both on child language and on CMC language varieties, a much smaller number of datasets are made available as corpora. Especially lacking are corpora which match requirements for verifiable age and gender metadata, although some include self-reported information, which may be unreliable. Our survey highlights the lack of corpus data available for the intersecting area of child language in CMC environments. This lack of available corpus data is a significant drawback for those wishing to undertake replicable studies of child language and online language varieties.
Book reviews
Authors: WARE Mark
Published: March 2013

Academic and Professional Publishing Edited by Robert Campbell, Ed Pentz, and Ian Borthwick Oxford, Chandos Publishing, 2012, 510pp. ISBN‐13 978‐1843346692, £60.00 pbk
RhoA is down-regulated at cell–cell contacts via p190RhoGAP-B in response to tensional homeostasis
Authors: Ponik Suzanne M. , Trier Steven M. , Wozniak Michele A. , Eliceiri Kevin W. , Keely Patricia J.
Published: April 2013

Breast epithelial cells cultured in three-dimensional (3D) collagen gels undergo ductal morphogenesis when the gel is compliant and they can achieve tensional homeostasis. We previously showed that this process requires down-regulation of Rho in compliant collagen gels, but the mechanism remains undefined. In this study, we find that p190RhoGAP-B, but not p190RhoGAP-A, mediates down-regulation of RhoA activity and ductal morphogenesis in T47D cells cultured in compliant 3D collagen gels. In addition, both RhoA and p190RhoGAP-B colocalize with p120-catenin at sites of cell–cell contact. The association between p190RhoGAP-B and p120-catenin is regulated by matrix compliance such that it increases in compliant vs. rigid collagen gels. Furthermore, knockdown of p120-catenin disrupts ductal morphogenesis, disregulates RhoA activity, and results in loss of p190B at cell–cell contacts. Consistent with these findings, using a RhoA-specific FRET biosensor (RhoA-FLARE.sc), we determined spatial RhoA activity to be significantly decreased at cell–cell contacts versus cell–ECM adhesions, and, of importance, spatial RhoA activity is regulated by p190B. This finding suggests that RhoA exists as an inactive pool at cell–cell contacts and is recruited to cell–ECM contacts within stiff matrices. Overall, these results demonstrate that RhoA is down-regulated at cell–cell contacts through p190RhoGAP-B, which is localized to cell–cell contacts by association with p120-catenin that is regulated by tensional homeostasis.
Implications of the spectroscopic abundances in α Centauri A and B
Authors: Hinkel Natalie R. , Kane Stephen R.
Published: March 2013

Regardless of their close proximity, abundance measurements for both stars in α Centauri by different groups have led to varying results. We have chosen to combine the abundance ratios from five similar data sets in order to reduce systematic effects that may have caused inconsistencies. With these collated relative abundance measurements, we find that the α Cen system and the Sun were likely formed from the same material, despite the [Fe/H] enrichment observed in the α Cen binaries: 0.28 and 0.31 dex, respectively. Both α Centauri A and B exhibit relative abundance ratios that are generally solar, with the mean at 0.002 and 0.03 dex, respectively. The refractory elements (condensation temperature ≳ 900 K) in each have a mean of −0.02 and 0.01 dex and a 1σ uncertainty of 0.09 and 0.11 dex, respectively. Given the trends seen when analysing the refractory abundances [X/Fe] with condensation temperature, we find it possible that α Centauri A may host a yet undiscovered planet.
Indices of Paraspinal Muscles Degeneration
Authors: Kalichman Leonid , Klindukhov Alexander , Li Ling , Linov Lina
Published: April 2013

Study Design:

A reliability and cross-sectional observational study.

Objective:

To introduce a scoring system for visible fat infiltration in paraspinal muscles; to evaluate intertester and intratester reliability of this system and its relationship with indices of muscle density; to evaluate the association between indices of paraspinal muscle degeneration and facet joint osteoarthritis.

Summary of Background Data:

Current evidence suggests that the paraspinal muscles degeneration is associated with low back pain, facet joint osteoarthritis, spondylolisthesis, and degenerative disc disease. However, the evaluation of paraspinal muscles on computed tomography is not radiological routine, probably because of absence of simple and reliable indices of paraspinal degeneration.

Methods:

One hundred fifty consecutive computed tomography scans of the lower back (N=75) or abdomen (N=75) were evaluated. Mean radiographic density (in Hounsfield units) and SD of the density of multifidus and erector spinae were evaluated at the L4–L5 spinal level. A new index of muscle degeneration, radiographic density ratio=muscle density/SD of density, was calculated. To evaluate the visible fat infiltration in paraspinal muscles, we proposed a 3-graded scoring system. The prevalence of facet joint osteoarthritis was also evaluated. Intraclass correlation and κ statistics were used to evaluate inter-rater and intra-rater reliability. Logistic regression examined the association between paraspinal muscle indices and facet joint osteoarthritis.

Results:

Intra-rater reliability for fat infiltration score (κ) ranged between 0.87 and 0.92; inter-rater reliability between 0.70 and 0.81. Intra-rater reliability (intraclass correlation) for mean density of paraspinal muscles ranged between 0.96 and 0.99, inter-rater reliability between 0.95 and 0.99; SD intra-rater reliability ranged between 0.82 and 0.91, inter-rater reliability between 0.80 and 0.89. Significant associations (P<0.01) were found between facet joint osteoarthritis, fat infiltration score, and radiographic density ratio.

Conclusions:

Two suggested indices of paraspinal muscle degeneration showed excellent reliability and were significantly associated with facet joint osteoarthritis. Additional studies are needed to evaluate the associations with other spinal degeneration features and low back pain.
Retrospective Study of Anterior Interbody Fusion Rates and Patient Outcomes of Using Mineralized Collagen and Bone Marrow Aspirate in Multilevel Adult Spinal Deformity Surgery
Authors: Hostin Richard , O’Brien Michael , McCarthy Ian , Bess Shay , Gupta Munish , Klineberg Eric
Published: April 2013

Design:

Retrospective, single-center analysis of multilevel anterior fusion rates and health-related quality-of-life outcomes of mineralized collagen and bone marrow aspirate (BMA) in anterior interbody fusion cages for spine fusion surgery.

Objective:

To determine the ability and effectiveness of mineralized collagen and BMA to achieve multilevel anterior spinal fusion in adult spinal deformity patients when placed in carbon fiber reinforced polymer cages.

Summary of Background Data:

High rates of postoperative pain and nonunion can result from spine fusion procedures. Factors that affect the success of fusion include patient comorbidities, position of implant, and mechanical and biological deficiencies, as well as the choice of bone graft replacement.

Methods:

Analysis of radiographic images and health-related quality-of-life outcomes was performed for a consecutive series of 22 prospectively enrolled adult spinal deformity patients with 104 total anterior fusion levels. Fusions were graded by 3 blinded surgeons not involved in the operative procedure; each fusion was graded on a 1–4 scale based on fusion mass appearance. Levels with an average fusion grade of 1–2.4 were classified as fused; levels with an average grade >2.5 were classified as not fused.

Results:

The mean patient age was 51.5 years (range, 38–61) with 21 females. A total of 95% of anterior operative levels were graded as fused based on flexion/extension and full-length biplane radiographs at 1 year. Computed tomography grading showed a reduced fusion rate at 87% overall. There was a statistically significant improvement in the Oswestry Disability Index and Scoliosis Research Society 22-item questionnaire scores at 1 and 2 years after index surgery.

Conclusions:

Fusion rates in multilevel anterior spinal fusion using mineralized collagen and BMA are relatively low compared with fusion rates of 95% or more reported in the existing literature on long fusions with bone morphogenetic protein.
Molecular polymorphism and linkage analysis in sweet passion fruit, an outcrossing species
Authors: Pereira G.S. , Nunes E.S. , Laperuta L.D.C. , Braga M.F. , Penha H.A. , Diniz A.L. , Munhoz C.F. , Gazaffi R. , Garcia A.A.F. , Vieira M.L.C.
Published: April 2013

One of the current challenges of tropical fruit crop improvement is to incorporate molecular marker‐based approaches into conventional breeding programmes. This study was designed to build an integrated genetic map of the sweet passion fruit (Passiflora alata), a diploid (2n = 18) outcrossing species which is greatly appreciated forin naturaconsumption, and reported to inspire cosmetic and pharmaceutical companies to create plant‐derived compounds. With this in mind, a full‐sib family of 180 individuals was genotyped using different molecular marker types, such as amplified fragment length polymorphisms (AFLP), microsatellite‐AFLP (M‐AFLP), simple sequence repeats (SSR), resistance gene analogues (RGA) and target region amplification polymorphism (TRAP). On average, the rate of polymorphism between the parental genotypes was 20.3%. We also searched for single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in someAFLPbands and in seven gene fragments, and found oneSNPevery 87 bp. AllSNPswere biallelic and occurred most frequently in putative gene fragments (81.5%) rather than inAFLPbands (60.0%) analyzed. Excellent gel profiles were obtained allowing the recognition of all types of segregation expected for a progeny of an outcrossing species. Multipoint linkage analysis was performed usingOneMapsoftware, with logarithm of the odds (LOD) score ≥ 5.6 and recombination fraction <0.5. The resulting integrated map consists of 549 markers, 2.0% of which fit a segregation ratio of 1:1:1:1, 1.3% a ratio of 1:2:1, 27.3% a ratio of 3:1 and 69.4% a ratio of 1:1. The map spanned a total of 2073.0 cM, with an average distance between adjacent markers of 3.8 cM. This is the first linkage study on sweet passion fruit and should prove useful for quantitative trait loci mapping.