bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pesticide‐conjugated polyacrylate nanoparticles: novel opportunities for improving the photostability of emamectin benzoate
Authors: Shang Qing , Shi Yongli , Zhang Yuehong , Zheng Ting , Shi Haoyan
Published: July 2012

Emamectin benzoate, a macrocyclic lactone, can be used in low quantities to control arthropod pests, effectively. However, its poor photostability prevents its further use. To delay its photodegradation, novel acrylate‐type polymeric nanoparticles were synthesized and tested as materials for improving pesticide photostability. N‐acylated emamectin benzoate was synthesized via bonding emamectin benzoate to acrylamide. The resulting pesticide, containing the double bond linkage –C=C–N–, was copolymerized with butyl acrylate and methyl methacrylate by the emulsion polymerization method. The refined polymers were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy spectroscopy, and result illustrated the pesticide was conjugated to the polymers. Atomic force microscope and dynamic light scattering analyses were also used for determining the average particle diameters of pesticide–polymer conjugates. Photostability tests showed that the nanoparticles obtained exhibited greatly improved photostability. Additionally, the laboratory toxicity tests demonstrated that the insecticidal effects of the novel emamectin benzoate formulation were better than those of the control pesticide formulation (emamectin benzoate EC). Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reactivity of nucleophiles toward a p‐benzyne derived from an enediyne
Authors: Perrin Charles L. , Reyes‐Rodríguez Gabriel J.
Published: July 2012

Enediynes undergo cycloaromatization to p‐benzyne diradicals. A new reaction of p‐benzynes is here presented. Instead of their usual radical reactivity, they add nucleophiles, followed by protonation. Kinetic evidence showed that the rate‐limiting step is the cycloaromatization, followed by rapid addition of a nucleophile. The unusual feature of nucleophilic addition to a radical center in a singlet diradical is discussed. Calculations that ignore solvation suggest that the addition has no activation barrier, but one is created by the necessity for desolvation of the anionic nucleophile. Relative reactivities of several nucleophiles have been measured under competition conditions. The observation of deuterium incorporation from DMSO‐d6 or CD3CN shows that the species that is protonated is the aryl anion, not the p‐benzyne. The extent of deuterium incorporation increases as the nucleophile is changed from iodide to bromide to chloride. This remarkable instance of selectivity is discussed. These studies of p‐benzyne reactivity are exploring the nonradical chemistry of this diradical. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
New Insights into Plasma‐Assisted Dissociation of Organometallic Vapors for Gas‐Phase Synthesis of Metal Nanoparticles
Authors: Lin Pin Ann , Kumar Ajay , Sankaran R. Mohan
Published: July 2012

Organometallic compounds are a general class of metal precursors that are used for chemical vapor deposition of metal films and nanoparticle nucleation in the gas phase. While there have been numerous studies of metal film deposition, there exist far fewer studies of how organometallic vapors are dissociated in the gas phase to homogeneously nucleate metal nanoparticles, and, most importantly, if the organic components are incorporated in the nanoparticle material. Here, we study the dissociation of organometallic precursors in an atmospheric‐pressure microplasma by optical emission spectroscopy and assess the chemical composition of the as‐grown nanoparticles by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. We find that certain precursors such as Ni(Cp)2 do not form carbon except at higher discharge powers where electron and gas heating are enhanced. In comparison, precursors such as Cu(acac)2 dissociate to form carbon moieties even at low discharge currents. These results should help guide processes that are intended to produce high‐purity metal nanoparticles.

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Clinical significance of respiratory isolates for Mycobacterium abscessus complex from pediatric patients
Authors: Do Paul C. M. , Nussbaum Eliezer , Moua John , Chin Terry , Randhawa Inderpal
Published: July 2012

Mycobacterium abscessus complex is the most virulent of rapidly growing mycobacteria causing invasive lung disease. To better delineate clinical pediatric experience and outcomes with M. abscessus complex, we retrospectively gathered 5‐year data on M. abscessus complex infection and outcomes in a large, hospital‐based pediatric pulmonary center. Patients were selected from the database of the microbiology department at Miller Children's Hospital in Long Beach, CA. Patients had at least one positive pulmonary isolate for M. abscessus complex from February 2006 to May 2011. Treatment modality data were collected and successful therapy of disease was determined as clearance of M. abscessus complex infection after antibiotics proven by culture negative respiratory isolate within at least 12 months of therapy initiation. Two cystic fibrosis patients with M. abscessus complex were identified, one with failed therapy and the other with stable pulmonary status despite persistent isolation. One primary ciliary dyskinesia patient had successful clearance of M. abscessus complex, however is now growing M. avium intracellulare. A patient with no prior medical history was successfully treated with antimycobacterial therapy. Eleven patients with neuromuscular disorders had tracheal aspirates positive for M. abscessus complex. None were treated due to stable lung status and all but two had spontaneous clearance of the mycobacteria. The two remaining persist with sporadic isolation of M. abscessus complex without clinical significance. We concluded that patients with tracheostomy associated M. abscessus complex infections do not appear to require treatment and often have spontaneous resolution. Cystic fibrosis or primary ciliary dyskinesia patients may have clinical disease warranting treatment, but current antimycobacterial therapy has not proven to be completely successful. As M. abscessus complex gains prevalence, standardized guidelines for diagnosis and therapy are needed in the pediatric population. Multicenter cohort analysis is necessary to achieve such guidelines. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2013; 48:470–480. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Microscopic analysis of performance variations in carbon nanotube field emission cathodes: Implications for device optimization
Authors: Berhanu Sarah , Gröning Oliver , Chen Zexiang , Merikhi Jacqueline , Kaiser Monja , Rupesinghe Nalin L. , Bachmann Peter K.
Published: July 2012

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are considered very promising for the realization of low‐cost field emission electron sources. However, despite intensive research and development efforts, the fabrication of reliable CNT cathodes for high current density (>100 mA/cm2) applications remains a formidable challenge. In this study we use scanning anode field emission microscopy (SAFEM) to investigate the microscopic origins of macroscopic emission performance variations in chemical vapor deposition (CVD) grown CNT planar field emission cathodes. The field enhancement distributions are determined and the field emission properties of individual emission sites on the cathodes are probed. Contact I(V) measurements are carried out to estimate the resistance of individual emitters. The degradation behavior of individual sites is also studied and can be related with the macroscopic cathode performances. Scanning (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) provide additional information on the contact and structural properties of the cathodes. Our results indicate that the sample macroscopic performances depend strongly on the individual emitter field emission properties in terms of maximum current before degradation and contact resistance.
Local compressive stress generation in electron irradiated boron‐doped Si0.75Ge0.25/Si devices
Authors: Tsunoda Isao , Nakashima Toshiyuki , Naka Nobuyuki , Idemoto Tatsuya , Yoneoka Masashi , Takakura Kenichiro , Yoshino Kenji , Gonzalez Mireia Bargallo , Simoen Eddy , Claeys Cor , Ohyama Hidenori
Published: July 2012

We have investigated the stress behavior in 2‐MeV electron irradiated boron‐doped Si0.75Ge0.25/Si‐substrate heterojunctions by using Raman spectroscopy. For a high fluence (∼1x1018 e/cm2), the Raman peak of the Si‐Si bonds in the boron‐doped Si0.75Ge0.25 layer has a tendency to move toward the high wave number side. The tendency increases with increasing electron fluence. This could be explained by local compressive stress variations in the Si0.75Ge0.25 layer during irradiation with varying fluence, due to the difference in the generation probability of the knock‐on atoms for silicon, germanium and boron. (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Clebsch‐Gordan coefficients for scattering processes in Si and Ge
Authors: Kunert H. W. , Machatine A. G. J. , Niyongabo P. , Govender M. , Mwakikunga B. W.
Published: July 2012

Scattering matrix for two phonon processes at k = 0 in Si and Ge of Oh7 symmetry is given.

Also diagonalization of spin‐orbit interaction Hamiltonian has been computed by means of Clebsh‐Gordan coefficients. (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Testing goodness of fit in regression: a general approach for specified alternatives
Authors: Solari Aldo , Cessie Saskia le , Goeman Jelle J.
Published: July 2012

When fitting generalized linear models or the Cox proportional hazards model, it is important to have tools to test for lack of fit. Because lack of fit comes in all shapes and sizes, distinguishing among different types of lack of fit is of practical importance. We argue that an adequate diagnosis of lack of fit requires a specified alternative model. Such specification identifies the type of lack of fit the test is directed against so that if we reject the null hypothesis, we know the direction of the departure from the model. The goodness‐of‐fit approach of this paper allows to treat different types of lack of fit within a unified general framework and to consider many existing tests as special cases. Connections with penalized likelihood and random effects are discussed, and the application of the proposed approach is illustrated with medical examples. Tailored functions for goodness‐of‐fit testing have been implemented in theRpackageglobaltest. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The design and conduct of clinical trials to limit missing data
Authors: Little R. J. , Cohen M. L. , Dickersin K. , Emerson S. S. , Farrar J. T. , Neaton J. D. , Shih W. , Siegel J. P. , Stern H.
Published: July 2012

This article summarizes recommendations on the design and conduct of clinical trials of a National Research Council study on missing data in clinical trials. Key findings of the study are that (a) substantial missing data is a serious problem that undermines the scientific credibility of causal conclusions from clinical trials; (b) the assumption that analysis methods can compensate for substantial missing data is not justified; hence (c) clinical trial design, including the choice of key causal estimands, the target population, and the length of the study, should include limiting missing data as one of its goals; (d) missing‐data procedures should be discussed explicitly in the clinical trial protocol; (e) clinical trial conduct should take steps to limit the extent of missing data; (f) there is no universal method for handling missing data in the analysis of clinical trials – methods should be justified on the plausibility of the underlying scientific assumptions; and (g) when alternative assumptions are plausible, sensitivity analysis should be conducted to assess robustness of findings to these alternatives. This article focuses on the panel's recommendations on the design and conduct of clinical trials to limit missing data. A companion paper addresses the panel's findings on analysis methods. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Template‐Free Pseudomorphic Synthesis of Tungsten Carbide Nanorods
Authors: Yan Ya , Zhang Lan , Qi Xiaoying , Song Hao , Wang Jing‐Yuan , Zhang Hua , Wang Xin
Published: July 2012

A unique nanorod‐structured tungsten carbide material with high specific surface area of 198 m2 g−1 is successfully synthesized for the first time by pseudomorphic transformation of chemically synthesized WO3 nanorods through a high‐temperature method. An electrocatalyst composed of Pt nanoparticles supported on WC nanorods demonstrates higher electrocatalytic activity for methanol electro‐oxidation, better tolerance to CO poisoning, and superior performance for cathodic electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution than a Pt/C catalyst. This work provides a novel method to synthesize high‐surface‐area nanorod‐structured WC materials by preparing oxide precursors with the desired external morphology, thus offering great potential for a broad range of applications of these materials in related reaction systems.
Implementation of a Model Output Statistics based on meteorological variable screening for short‐term wind power forecast
Authors: Ranaboldo Matteo , Giebel Gregor , Codina Bernat
Published: July 2012

A combination of physical and statistical treatments to post‐process numerical weather predictions (NWP) outputs is needed for successful short‐term wind power forecasts. One of the most promising and effective approaches for statistical treatment is the Model Output Statistics (MOS) technique. In this study, a MOS based on multiple linear regression is proposed: the model screens the most relevant NWP forecast variables and selects the best predictors to fit a regression equation that minimizes the forecast errors, utilizing wind farm power output measurements as input. The performance of the method is evaluated in two wind farms, located in different topographical areas and with different NWP grid spacing. Because of the high seasonal variability of NWP forecasts, it was considered appropriate to implement monthly stratified MOS. In both wind farms, the first predictors were always wind speeds (at different heights) or friction velocity. When friction velocity is the first predictor, the proposed MOS forecasts resulted to be highly dependent on the friction velocity–wind speed correlation. Negligible improvements were encountered when including more than two predictors in the regression equation. The proposed MOS performed well in both wind farms, and its forecasts compare positively with an actual operative model in use at Risø DTU and other MOS types, showing minimum BIAS and improving NWP power forecast of around 15% in terms of root mean square error. Further improvements could be obtained by the implementation of a more refined MOS stratification, e.g. fitting specific equations in different synoptic situations. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Promoting wildlife health or fighting wildlife disease: Insights from History, Philosophy, and Science
Authors: Hanisch Shauna L. , Riley Shawn J. , Nelson Michael P.
Published: July 2012

Although healthy wildlife populations are often a goal of wildlife management, ambiguity over the meaning of the term health may limit its effectiveness in guiding management objectives. Health is a complex concept with empirical and normative qualities; if it is to convey more than simply metaphorical value in wildlife conservation, clearer articulation of the meaning of wildlife health is needed. We provide a brief overview of the evolution of wildlife disease and health management; we discuss important philosophical themes relevant to developing a clarified understanding of wildlife health; and we share perspectives on wildlife health and disease from a Delphi exercise involving North American wildlife health professionals. The Delphi group conceptualized wildlife health as a multidisciplinary concept marked predominantly by population sustainability and resilience. Disease was considered to be a specific abnormal condition that is a part of the broader concept of health. We suggest improved integration of the descriptive and normative elements of wildlife health and greater inclusion of societal values in developing wildlife health objectives as a means to broaden the scope and effectiveness of wildlife health management. © 2012 The Wildlife Society.
Estimating public willingness to fund nongame conservation through state tax initiatives
Authors: Dalrymple C. Jane , Peterson M. Nils , Cobb David T. , Sills Erin O. , Bondell Howard D. , Dalrymple D. Joseph
Published: July 2012

Nongame conservation is insufficiently funded at local, national, and global levels. Despite campaigns and reforms over the past 30 years in the United States, adequate and consistent federal funding has failed to materialize and shifted the focus to state‐level initiatives. We surveyed North Carolina residents during April–May 2010, to assess public willingness to fund nongame conservation, preferred nongame conservation funding mechanisms, and key predictors of support for nongame funding. We estimated a model of willingness‐to‐pay (WTP) using interval‐censored data modeling and compared models using the Akaike Information Criterion. The mean WTP was US$98.80/year/household when respondents were allowed to choose their own tax vehicle, thus removing any payment vehicle bias; an additional sales tax on outdoor recreation equipment was the most preferred funding mechanism. In a follow‐up question, respondents indicated a mean WTP of US$32.92/employed adult (equivalent to about $65/household) annually via a flat income tax. The importance of nongame conservation to respondents, frequency of watching and/or enjoying wildlife, and education were positively related to WTP, whereas age was negatively related to WTP. Prisons were the most popular source from which to reallocate funds to nongame conservation (48%), and respondents believed an average of US$545,000 should be reallocated. Our findings suggested that while the general public indicated that they valued nongame conservation and were amenable to tax increases or reallocations for nongame conservation, they believed that taxes should be user‐based and specialized (e.g., outdoor equipment taxes). These findings highlighted public WTP for nongame conservation even during an economic recession. © 2012 The Wildlife Society.
Mitigating roadway impacts to migratory mule deer—A case study with underpasses and continuous fencing
Authors: Sawyer Hall , Lebeau Chad , Hart Thomas
Published: July 2012

Wildlife–vehicle collisions pose a major safety concern to motorists and can be a significant source of mortality for wildlife. Additionally, roadways can impede movements and reduce habitat connectivity. For migratory ungulates, these problems can be exacerbated when roadways bisect migration routes, as is the case in Southwest Wyoming, USA, where a 21‐km section of U.S. Highway 30 overlaps with a critical winter range and migration route used by thousands of mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus). In an effort to reduce deer–vehicle collisions (DVC) and maintain migratory connectivity, the Wyoming Department of Transportation installed 7 concrete box‐culvert underpasses with continuous game‐proof fencing between each crossing structure. To evaluate the effectiveness of this mitigation project, we used remote cameras to quantify the number of mule deer that used the underpasses, estimate passage rates through time, and compare rates of DVCs before and after underpass construction. Through 3 years of monitoring (which encompassed autumn migration [2008, 2009, and 2010], winter use, and spring migration [2009, 2010, and 2011] for 3 migration cycles), we documented 49,146 mule deer move through the underpasses. Passage rates of deer approaching underpasses steadily increased from 54% in Year 1 to 92% in Year 3. Peak movements during the autumn migration occurred in mid‐December, while peak spring movements were in mid‐March and early May. Underpass and fence installation effectively reduced DVCs by 81%. Had fence gates remained closed and cattle guards clear of snow, DVCs could be eliminated altogether. Our results suggest that underpasses, combined with game‐proof fencing, can improve highway safety for motorists while providing safe and effective movement corridors for large populations of migratory mule deer. © 2012 The Wildlife Society.
Inhibition of acetate accumulation leads to enhanced production of (R,R)-2,3-butanediol from glycerol inEscherichia coli
Authors: Shen Xiaolin , Lin Yuheng , Jain Rachit , Yuan Qipeng , Yan Yajun
Published: July 2012

This work describes the production of (R,R)-2,3-butanediol in Escherichia coli using glycerol by metabolic engineering approaches. The introduction of a synthetic pathway converting pyruvate to (R,R)-2,3-butanediol into wild-type E. coli strain BW25113 led to the production of (R,R)-2,3-butanediol at a titer of 3.54 g/l and a yield of 0.131 g product/g glycerol (26.7 % of theoretical maximum) with acetate (around 3.00 g/l) as the dominant by-product. We therefore evaluated the impacts of deleting the genes ackA or/and poxB that are responsible for the major by-product, acetate. This increased production of (R,R)-2,3-butanediol to 9.54 g/l with a yield of 0.333 g product/g glycerol (68.0 % of theoretical maximum) in shake flask studies. The utilization of low-priced crude glycerol to produce value-added chemicals is of great significance to the economic viability of the biodiesel industry.
Application of Rhamnolipid in the Formulation of a Detergent
Authors: Khaje Bafghi Mansureh , Fazaelipoor Mohammad Hassan
Published: July 2012

Biosurfactants are a group of surface active agents which are produced by a variety of microorganisms. These materials are safer than their synthetic counterparts regarding the environmental concerns. In this research the application of rhamnolipid (a biosurfactant produced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa) in the formulation of a washing powder was investigated. The biosurfactant was mixed with sodium tripolyphosphate as a builder and sodium sulfate as filler, and was applied to washing pieces of cotton clothes which were contaminated with known amounts of edible oil. The effects of pH and temperature of washing medium, washing time, the stirrer velocity of the washing system, and the weight percentage of rhamnolipid and builder on the washing efficiency of the formulation were examined. The results showed that the biosurfactant was effective in oil removal from the samples. The results moreover showed that the optimum pH was 7, and for the other parameters higher levels gave better results. The formulation presented in this study was also compared with some commercial powders for the removal of edible oil, chocolate, and albumen stains. The results showed that the formulation presented in this study was comparable to commercial powders in terms of the stain removal. Biodegradability tests were also performed on pure rhamnolipid and rhamnolipid in the formulation which confirmed good biodegradability of this biosurfactant.
Myocardial Infarction Changes Sphingolipid Metabolism in the Uninfarcted Ventricular Wall of the Rat
Authors: Knapp Małgorzata , Żendzian‐Piotrowska Małgorzata , Kurek Krzysztof , Błachnio‐Zabielska Agnieszka
Published: July 2012

It is known that the ratio, the level of sphingosine‐1‐phosphate (S1P)/the level of ceramide (CER) determines survival of the cells. The aim of the present study was to examine the effect of myocardial infarction on the level of different sphingolipids in the uninfarcted area. The experiments were carried out on male Wistar rats: 1, control; 2, after ligation of the left coronary artery (infarct) and 3, sham operated. Samples of the uninfarcted area of the left ventricle were taken in 1, 6 and 24 h after the surgery. The level of sphingolipids, S1P, CER, sphingosine (SPH), sphinganine‐1‐phosphate (SPA1P) and sphinganine (SPA) was determined. The control values were (ng/mg), S1P‐0.33 ± 0.03, SPH‐1.02 ± 0.13, SPA1P‐0.11 ± 0.01, SPA‐0.28 ± 0.04, total CER‐20.3 ± 1.8. In infarct, the level of S1P in the uninfarcted area was reduced by ~3 times in 1 and 6 h and decreased further in 24 h. The level of SPH decreased in 1 h and returned to the control thereafter. The total level of CER decreased in 6 h after the infarction. Sham surgery also produced changes in the level of certain sphingolipids. The ratio, the level of S1P/the level of CER was markedly reduced at each time point after the infarction. It is concluded that the reduction in the S1P/CER ratio could be responsible for increased apoptosis in the uninfarcted area after the myocardial infarction in the rat.
Students’ Mental Models of Evolutionary Causation: Natural Selection and Genetic Drift
Authors: Beggrow Elizabeth P. , Nehm Ross H.
Published: July 2012

In an effort to understand how to improve student learning about evolution, a focus of science education research has been to document and address students’ naive ideas. Less research has investigated how students reason about alternative scientific models that attempt to explain the same phenomenon (e.g., which causal model best accounts for evolutionary change?). Within evolutionary biology, research has yet to explore how non-adaptive factors are situated within students’ conceptual ecologies of evolutionary causation. Do students construct evolutionary explanations that include non-adaptive and adaptive factors? If so, how are non-adaptive factors structured within students’ evolutionary explanations? We used clinical interviews and two paper and pencil instruments (one open-response and one multiple-choice) to investigate the use of non-adaptive and adaptive factors in undergraduate students’ patterns of evolutionary reasoning. After instruction that included non-adaptive causal factors (e.g., genetic drift), we found them to be remarkably uncommon in students’ explanatory models of evolutionary change in both written assessments and clinical interviews. However, consistent with many evolutionary biologists’ explanations, when students used non-adaptive factors they were conceptualized as causal alternatives to selection. Interestingly, use of non-adaptive factors was not associated with greater understanding of natural selection in interviews or written assessments, or with fewer naive ideas of natural selection. Thus, reasoning using non-adaptive factors appears to be a distinct facet of evolutionary thinking. We propose a theoretical framework for an expert–novice continuum of evolutionary reasoning that incorporates both adaptive and non-adaptive factors, and can be used to inform instructional efficacy in evolutionary biology.
Landslides and Neotectonic Activities in the Main Boundary Thrust (MBT) Zone: Southeastern Kumaun, Uttarakhand
Authors: Kothyari Girish Ch. , Pant P. D. , Luirei Khayingshing
Published: July 2012

Main Boundary Thrust (MBT) zone is constituted of some of the landslide prone areas in southeastern part of Kumaun Sub-Himalaya. Role of landslides as natural hazard and hill slope modifying agent is well documented from various part of Himalayan region and southern hills of Kumaun particularly in the MBT zone, which are susceptible to various type of mass movement. The rocks making up the slopes has been put to a number of brittle deformation phases during the movement along the MBT, and are traversed by number of joint sets. In the open slope these intersecting joint sets forms wedges and are the most favorable site for initiation of rockfalls and other types of landslides. Landslides are taking place primarily due to high angle slopes, formation of structural wedges along the free steep slopes, sheared nature of the rocks due to proximity to the MBT and neotectonic activities along the MBT and other transverse faults. Wedge failure is a common type of landslides in rock slopes characterized by multiple joints and acts as sliding planes for the failed blocks. Field observations and wedge failure analysis indicates most of the landslides taking place in MBT zone of Kumaun Sub-Himalaya are joint controlled. Safety Factor analysis suggests MBT zone of Kumaun Sub-Himalayan region is prone to landslides and related mass movements. This zone is also neotectonically active as indicated by various geomorphic signatures such as structurally controlled drainage pattern, offsetting of fan by MBT and formation of number of small lakes.
Wettability Influences Cell Behavior on Superhydrophobic Surfaces with Different Topographies
Authors: Lourenço Bianca N. , Marchioli Giulia , Song Welong , Reis Rui L. , van Blitterswijk Clemens A. , Karperien Marcel , van Apeldoorn Aart , Mano João F.
Published: July 2012

Surface wettability and topography are recognized as critical factors influencing cell behavior on biomaterials. So far only few works have reported cell responses on surfaces exhibiting extreme wettability in combination with surface topography. The goal of this work is to study whether cell behavior on superhydrophobic surfaces is influenced by surface topography and polymer type. Biomimetic superhydrophobic rough surfaces of polystyrene and poly(l-lactic acid) with different micro/nanotopographies were obtained from smooth surfaces using a simple phase-separation based method. Total protein was quantified and showed a less adsorption of bovine serum albumin onto rough surfaces as compared to smooth surfaces of the same material. The mouse osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cell line and primary bovine articular chondrocytes were used to study cell attachment and proliferation. Cells attached and proliferate better in the smooth surfaces. The superhydrophobic surfaces allowed cells to adhere but inhibited their proliferation. This study indicates that surface wettability, rather than polymer type or the topography of the superhydrophobic surfaces, is a critical factor in determining cell behavior.
Control over DNA replication in time and space
Authors: Symeonidou Ioanna-Eleni , Taraviras Stavros , Lygerou Zoi
Published: July 2012

DNA replication is precisely regulated in time and space, thereby safeguarding genomic integrity. In eukaryotes, replication initiates from multiple sites along the genome, termed origins of replication, and propagates bidirectionally. Dynamic origin bound complexes dictate where and when replication should initiate. During late mitosis and G1 phase, putative origins are recognized and become “licensed” through the assembly of pre‐replicative complexes (pre‐RCs) that include the MCM2–7 helicases. Subsequently, at the G1/S phase transition, a fraction of pre‐RCs are activated giving rise to the establishment of replication forks. Origin location is influenced by chromatin and nuclear organization and origin selection exhibits stochastic features. The regulatory mechanisms that govern these cell cycle events rely on the periodic fluctuation of cyclin dependent kinase (CDK) activity through the cell cycle.
Towards an artificial cell
Authors: Hammer Daniel A. , Kamat Neha P.
Published: July 2012

We are on the verge of producing “synthetic cells,” or protocells, in which some, many or all of the tasks of a real biological cell are harnessed into a synthetic platform. Such advances are made possible through genetic engineering, microfabrication technologies, and the development of cellular membranes from new surfactants that extend beyond phospholipids in stability and chemical control, and can be used to introduce designer functionality into membranes and cells. We review some of the recent advances in the development of synthetic cells and suggest future exciting directions.
E‐cadherin dysfunction in gastric cancer ‐ Cellular consequences, clinical applications and open questions
Authors: Carneiro Patrícia , Fernandes Maria Sofia , Figueiredo Joana , Caldeira Joana , Carvalho Joana , Pinheiro Hugo , Leite Marina , Melo Soraia , Oliveira Patrícia , Simões-Correia Joana , Oliveira Maria José , Carneiro Fátima , Figueiredo Céu , Paredes Joana , Oliveira Carla , Seruca Raquel
Published: July 2012

E‐cadherin plays a major role in cell–cell adhesion and inactivating germline mutations in its encoding gene predispose to hereditary diffuse gastric cancer. Evidence indicates that aside from its recognized role in early tumourigenesis, E‐cadherin is also pivotal for tumour progression, including invasion and metastization. Herein, we discuss E‐cadherin alterations found in a cancer context, associated cellular effects and signalling pathways, and we raise new key questions that will impact in the management of GC patients and families.
Physical and functional interaction of KV10.1 with Rabaptin‐5 impacts ion channel trafficking
Authors: Ninkovic Milena , Mitkovski Mišo , Kohl Tobias , Stühmer Walter , Pardo Luis A.
Published: July 2012

Kv10.1
and
RAB7
colocalize by fluorescence microscopy (View interaction)
Late-glacial to Holocene transition in northern Spain deduced from land-snail shelly accumulations
Authors: Yanes Yurena , Gutiérrez-Zugasti Igor , Delgado Antonio
Published: July 2012

Shells of the helicidCepaea nemoraliswere studied using taphonomic, isotopic and morphometric measurements to estimate late glacial–Holocene (~ 12.1–6.3 cal ka BP) environmental conditions in northern Spain. Higher taphonomic alteration among Holocene shells suggests lower sedimentation rates or higher shell-destruction rates than during glacial conditions. Shells preserved the aragonitic composition despite differing degree of skeleton damage. Shell δ13C values were − 10.3 ± 1.1‰, − 8.2 ± 2.3‰, and − 7.3 ± 1.6‰ for modern, Holocene and late-glacial individuals, respectively. Higher δ13C values during the late-glacial and some Holocene periods imply higher water stress of C3plants and/or higher limestone contribution than today. Intrashell δ13C values were higher during juvenile stages suggesting higher limestone ingestion to promote shell growth. Shell δ18O values were − 1.1 ± 0.7‰, − 0.9 ± 0.8‰ and − 0.1 ± 0.7‰ for modern, Holocene and late-glacial specimens, respectively. A snail flux-balance model suggests that during ~ 12.1 − 10.9 cal ka BP conditions were drier and became wetter at ~ 8.4 − 6.3 cal ka BP and today. Intrashell δ18O profiles reveal that glacial individuals experienced more extreme seasonality than interglacial shells, despite possible larger hibernation periods. Shell size correlated positively with δ18O values, suggesting that growth rates and ultimate adult size ofC. nemoralismay respond to climate fluctuation in northern Spain.
Parasites, proteomes and systems: has Descartes’ clock run out of time?
Authors: WASTLING J. M. , ARMSTRONG S. D. , KRISHNA R. , XIA D.
Published: July 2012

Systems biology aims to integrate multiple biological data types such as genomics, transcriptomics and proteomics across different levels of structure and scale; it represents an emerging paradigm in the scientific process which challenges the reductionism that has dominated biomedical research for hundreds of years. Systems biology will nevertheless only be successful if the technologies on which it is based are able to deliver the required type and quality of data. In this review we discuss how well positioned is proteomics to deliver the data necessary to support meaningful systems modelling in parasite biology. We summarise the current state of identification proteomics in parasites, but argue that a new generation of quantitative proteomics data is now needed to underpin effective systems modelling. We discuss the challenges faced to acquire more complete knowledge of protein post-translational modifications, protein turnover and protein-protein interactions in parasites. Finally we highlight the central role of proteome-informatics in ensuring that proteomics data is readily accessible to the user-community and can be translated and integrated with other relevant data types.
Beyond solidarity, reciprocity and altruism: moral capital as a unifying concept in intergenerational support for older people
Authors: SILVERSTEIN MERRIL , CONROY STEPHEN J. , GANS DAPHNA
Published: July 2012

The purpose of this article is to review, contrast and synthesise several major intellectual streams that have guided theoretical development and empirical research in the area of intergenerational family support to older people: (a) normative-integrative approaches that focus on cohesion between family members based on bonds of solidarity and norms of filial obligation, and (b) transactional approaches that are primarily concerned with identifying motives for resource transfers across generational lines. We propose the concept of moral capital – defined as the stock of internalised social norms that obligate children to care for and support their older parents – the transmission of which lies at the intersection of self-interest (for parents) and altruism (for children). Using data from a multigenerational family study, we present an empirical analysis showing that a strong positive correspondence in the filial obligations of adult children and their older mothers – arguably the result of intergenerational transmission – elevated the supportive behaviour of children. We suggest that moral capital may be a useful unifying concept that bridges disciplinary and theoretical divides in the study of intergenerational transfers to elderly people by helping resolve the paradox of how self-interest and selflessness can co-exist within families.
Prevalence of livestock-associated MRSA on Dutch broiler farms and in people living and/or working on these farms
Authors: GEENEN P. L. , GRAAT E. A. M. , HAENEN A. , HENGEVELD P. D. , VAN HOEK A. H. A. M. , HUIJSDENS X. W. , KAPPERT C. C. , LAMMERS G. A. C. , VAN DUIJKEREN E. , VAN DE GIESSEN A. W.
Published: July 2012

This study aimed to determine the prevalence and risk factors for methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureus(MRSA) on 50 Dutch broiler farms. Of 145 persons living and/or working on these farms, eight tested positive for MRSA (5·5%). Investigation of 250 pooled throat samples of broilers and 755 dust samples resulted in four farms where MRSA-positive samples were present (8·0%). All isolates belonged to the CC398 complex. Living and/or working on a MRSA-positive farm was a risk for MRSA carriage; 66·7% of people on positive farms were MRSA positivevs. 1·5% on negative farms (P<0·0001). Due to the low number of positive farms and persons, and high similarity in farm management, it was impossible to draw statistically valid conclusions on other risk factors. For broiler farming, both farm and human MRSA prevalence seem much lower than for pig or veal farming. However, MRSA carriage in people living and/or working on broiler farms is higher compared to the general human population in The Netherlands (5·5%vs. <0·1%). As broiler husbandry systems are not unique to The Netherlands, this might imply that people in contact with live broilers are at risk for MRSA carriage worldwide.
The Impact of Stress on Paramedic Performance During Simulated Critical Events
Authors: LeBlanc Vicki R , Regehr Cheryl , Tavares Walter , Scott Aristathemos K. , MacDonald Russell , King Kevin
Published: July 2012

Objectives

Substantial research demonstrates that the stressors accompanying the profession of paramedicine can lead to mental health concerns. In contrast, little is known about the effects of stress on paramedics’ ability to care for patients during stressful events. In this study, we examined paramedics’ acute stress responses and performance during simulated high-stress scenarios.

Methods

Twenty-two advanced care paramedics participated in simulated low-stress and high-stress clinical scenarios. The paramedics provided salivary cortisol samples and completed an anxiety questionnaire at baseline and following each scenario. Clinical performance was videotaped and scored on a checklist of specific actions and a global rating of performance. The paramedics also completed patient care documentation following each scenario.

Results

The paramedics demonstrated greater increases in anxiety (P < .05) and salivary cortisol levels (P < .05) in response to the high-stress scenario compared to the low-stress scenario. Global rating scores were significantly lower in the high-stress scenario than in the low-stress scenario (P < .05). Checklist scores were not significantly different between the two scenarios (P = .12). There were more errors of commission (reporting information not present in the scenario) in the patient care documentation following the high-stress scenario than following the low-stress scenario (P < .05). In contrast, there were no differences in omission errors (failing to recall information present in the scenario) between the two scenarios (P = .34).

Conclusion

Clinical performance and documentation appear vulnerable to the impact of acute stress. This highlights the importance of developing systems and training interventions aimed at supporting and preparing emergency workers who face acute stressors as part of their every day work responsibilities.

LeBlanc VR, Regehr C, Tavares W, Scott AK, MacDonald R, King K. The impact of stress on paramedic performance during simulated critical events. Prehosp Disaster Med. 2012;27(4):1-6.
Modification of cocaine self-administration by buspirone (buspar®): potential involvement of D3 and D4 dopamine receptors
Authors: Bergman Jack , Roof Rebecca A. , Furman Cheryse A. , Conroy Jennie L. , Mello Nancy K. , Sibley David R. , Skolnick Phil
Published: July 2012

Converging lines of evidence indicate that elevations in synaptic dopamine levels play a pivotal role in the reinforcing effects of cocaine, which are associated with its abuse liability. This evidence has led to the exploration of dopamine receptor blockers as pharmacotherapy for cocaine addiction. While neither D1 nor D2 receptor antagonists have proven effective, medications acting at two other potential targets, D3 and D4 receptors, have yet to be explored for this indication in the clinic. Buspirone, a 5-HT1A partial agonist approved for the treatment of anxiety, has been reported to also bind with high affinity to D3 and D4 receptors. In view of this biochemical profile, the present research was conducted to examine both the functional effects of buspirone on these receptors and, in non-human primates, its ability to modify the reinforcing effects of i.v. cocaine in a behaviourally selective manner. Radioligand binding studies confirmed that buspirone binds with high affinity to recombinant human D3 and D4 receptors (∼98 and ∼29 nm respectively). Live cell functional assays also revealed that buspirone, and its metabolites, function as antagonists at both D3 and D4 receptors. In behavioural studies, doses of buspirone that had inconsistent effects on food-maintained responding (0.1 or 0.3 mg/kg i.m.) produced a marked downward shift in the dose–effect function for cocaine-maintained behaviour, reflecting substantial decreases in self-administration of one or more unit doses of i.v. cocaine in each subject. These results support the further evaluation of buspirone as a candidate medication for the management of cocaine addiction.
Mantle dynamics beneath the Pacific Northwest and the generation of voluminous back‐arc volcanism
Authors: Long Maureen D. , Till Christy B. , Druken Kelsey A. , Carlson Richard W. , Wagner Lara S. , Fouch Matthew J. , James David E. , Grove Timothy L. , Schmerr Nicholas , Kincaid Chris
Published: July 2012

The Pacific Northwest (PNW) has a complex tectonic history and over the past ∼17 Ma has played host to several major episodes of intraplate volcanism. These events include the Steens/Columbia River flood basalts (CRB) and the striking spatiotemporal trends of the Yellowstone/Snake River Plain (Y/SRP) and High Lava Plains (HLP) regions. Several different models have been proposed to explain these features, which variously invoke the putative Yellowstone plume, rollback and steepening of the Cascadia slab, extensional processes in the lithosphere, or a combination of these. Here we integrate seismologic, geodynamic, geochemical, and petrologic results from the multidisciplinary HLP project and associated analyses of EarthScope USArray seismic data to propose a conceptual model for post‐20 Ma mantle dynamics beneath the PNW and the relationships between mantle flow and surface tectonomagmatic activity. This model invokes rollback subduction as the main driver for mantle flow beneath the PNW beginning at ∼20 Ma. A major pulse of upwelling due to slab rollback and upper plate extension and consequent melting produced the Steens/CRB volcanism, and continuing trench migration enabled mantle upwelling and hot, shallow melting beneath the HLP. An additional buoyant mantle upwelling is required to explain the Y/SRP volcanism, but subduction‐related processes may well have played a primary role in controlling its timing and location, and this upwelling likely continues today in some form. This conceptual model makes predictions that are broadly consistent with seismic observations, geodynamic modeling experiments, and petrologic and geochemical constraints.
Hurricane Irene (2011) “worst‐case” estimates of wind damage to property from exigent analysis of ECMWF ensemble forecasts
Authors: Hoffman Ross N. , Gombos Daniel
Published: July 2012

In late August 2011, Hurricane Irene damaged property along the U.S. East Coast, making landfalls in the Carolinas and in the New York metro area. At each initial forecast time, the ECMWF forecast ensemble provides a measure of the possible outcomes. For each ensemble member the maximum sustained wind predicted at each location is used to estimate the expected property damage due to wind. “Worst‐case” or exigent scenarios are developed that are consistent with the range of forecasts in the ensemble. Exigent scenarios are potentially useful to emergency responders and planners and applicable to any area of geophysics for which spatial uncertainty is represented by an ensemble of realizations. For the case of Hurricane Irene, the exigent patterns of damage are centered on New York Harbor and the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay.
Geoneutrinos and the radioactive power of the Earth
Authors: Dye S. T.
Published: July 2012

Chemical and physical Earth models agree little as to the radioactive power of the planet. Each predicts a range of radioactive powers, overlapping slightly with the other at about 24 TW, and together spanning 14–46 TW. Approximately 20% of this radioactive power (3–8 TW) escapes to space in the form of geoneutrinos. The remaining 11–38 TW heats the planet with significant geodynamical consequences, appearing as the radiogenic component of the 43–49 TW surface heat flow. The nonradiogenic component of the surface heat flow (5–38 TW) is presumably primordial, a legacy of the formation and early evolution of the planet. A constraining measurement of radiogenic heating provides insights to the thermal history of the Earth and potentially discriminates chemical and physical Earth models. Radiogenic heating in the planet primarily springs from unstable nuclides of uranium, thorium, and potassium. The paths to their stable daughter nuclides include nuclear beta decays, producing geoneutrinos. Large subsurface detectors efficiently record the energy but not the direction of the infrequent interactions of the highest‐energy geoneutrinos, originating only from uranium and thorium. The measured energy spectrum of the interactions estimates the relative amounts of these heat‐producing elements, while the intensity estimates planetary radiogenic power. Recent geoneutrino observations in Japan and Italy find consistent values of radiogenic heating. The combined result mildly excludes the lowest model values of radiogenic heating and, assuming whole mantle convection, identifies primordial heat loss. Future observations have the potential to measure radiogenic heating with better precision, further constraining geological models and the thermal evolution of the Earth. This review presents the science and status of geoneutrino observations and the prospects for measuring the radioactive power of the planet.